Sol's not from here

by Sailor Aether

Rating: mature
Tags: Princess Luna, Original Character, Mystery, Princess Cadance, Profanity, Adventure, Violence, Princess Celestia, Sex, Human, Main 6, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe
Length: 39691

Sol is, well was a human on a picnic with his mom and somehow ended up in Equestria. Now he has to figure out what's going on, and his purpose here in Equestria.

Meet Sol Hamel was a human who has been taken to Equestria after a picnic with his mom. He takes a nap after she leaves and wakes up outside the castle of the 2 sisters in the Everfree forest. Is there a purpose to this forced teleportation or coincidence? Either way Sol has a lot to get used to between learning to use his magic, making new friends, and making an attempt at a love life. Lets see what he finds out on his journey.

Edit: Honestly, I didn’t expect this story to do well, I Appreciate all the comments and views! This is my first story that I have tried to put together and is a work in progress. Its not my best but I do enjoy writing this so if you can get past the mach jesus pacing at the start im doin my best to fix it.
Featured!:
10/31/2023
12/29/2024

Published 2023-10-22 22:30:00 UTC
Last updated 2024-12-30 03:07:54 UTC

Chapter 1: Sols change

Author's Note

Hi everyone! Thanks for taking the time to read this. All feed back is appreciated I put the mature tag as well as the Sex tag for later chapters and I will be sure to mark it in the authors note if their is some steamy stuff. Thanks again for your time!

Chapter 1: Sols change

“Aw hell I'm gonna be late for dinner” Sol thought as he woke up from his nap in the park… or what was the park before he dozed off. He had decided to take a nap after having a picnic with his mom. Though she said she was going to leave to start preparing dinner for when his father got home. Though those thoughts were now starting to make it to the back of his mind as he looked around and found himself outside some castle ruins that definitely hadn’t been there when he fell asleep. Panic started to rise in him as he did a 360 in an attempt to find anything noteworthy of home. In doing so he fell over and stared at his hands, or rather what were now hooves?

“What in the 9 hells is going on with me today am I having one of those, what was it? Lucid dreams yea” Sol now panicking a little harder now flailed around and tried to pinch himself only to face hoof immediately. Now with a rather sore cheek now growing to a slight ache he just rolled to his back and just went limp and screamed as loud as he could muster towards the setting sun. Birds flew off the trees in response to his rather sudden outburst but Sol couldn’t be bothered at the moment; he wanted to know what happened?, where is his family?, and where is he?

Even though he wanted to cry and just and go home, he had to find answers before he did, but safety first. He was in an unfamiliar land, polymorphed into a horse presumably and it was getting dark fast. He turned towards the ruins and began to explore what would be his shelter for the night. He looked around and found some sticks and stones from the decrepit ruins of what was surely a beautiful castle during its time. The marble stones, the murals that were starting to peel slightly but were still put together enough to make out the outline of 2 rather large and colored horses. One being a brilliant night sky blue with a lovely mane of what looked like the night sky he could see overhead, and the other a dazzling white with a flowing mane of pink, green, blue and teal.

“Man, I need to find something for a fire. Maybe I could use some of this marble to make a small fire pit” Sol sighed at having to recall all his boy scout survival camping trips he did when he was kid.

Continuing deeper into the ruins he found himself in what seemed to be a bedroom. He looked at the bed against the far had rotted and waterlogged and was falling to the left so using it was out of the question .The dusty sheets were the only salvageable thing about the bed despite being mildewed but it was manageable. Sol stopped for a moment when he was entering the bedroom and looked to his left and saw a mirror next to the doorway. He slowly crept his way over to it and saw a very unfamiliar entity looking back at him. Through the moonlight Sol could see what used to be; a 22 year old, 5’10” tan male weighing about 150 lbs., with hair that reached his shoulders was no longer looking back at him. What He did see was a 5ft cream colored Unicorn stallion with a mane and tail that matched the colors of the sunset. It was a purple and pinkish color that resembled a strawberry sky. His eyes were a light lavender with pupils resembling the bright North star.

“I’m a unicorn? Aren’t those a myth that children dream of owning once or twice? Today could not get any weirder”. As Sol was contemplating what to do next he grumbled and walked over to the bed, and tore the sheets off the bed with his horn and teeth and slowly made his way back to his makeshift fire pit in what could only have used to be the entrance hall.

“I wonder if anyone still comes out here for anything, I doubt it considering the shape of this place” he said to no one in particular. Honestly the only thing keeping him calm at the moment was him talking himself through what he should be doing. Sol arranged the stones in a neat circle and gathered some wood from the sides of the castle and threw the wood into the pit and then proceeded to pat himself down for a match,

“And I don't have clothes to hold a match that’s right, of course I don’t have clothes, or my wallet” he sighed and remembered he had a horn and was a unicorn, and there supposed to be magical. “I sure hope this magic thing is real and better yet easy”. Sol could not have been more wrong about magic being easy. He tried to envision a fire in his mind and make it reality to no avail, he then tried words associated with fire from earth, “ Fire! Flame!, Ignite!, Blaze!” Sol was about to give up when he had an idea, what if instead of just trying to create a fire he wanted to create light. He wasn’t convinced it was going to work but when he set his mind to give him light he was pleasantly surprised to have his horn glowing a brilliant white and he could finally see his surroundings a bit better. It was no fire but it was certainly a start that he was proud of. He then stopped focusing on his spell and was immediately hit with a slight wave of nausea and exhaustion.

"I need to figure this out and I would like to do this fast because I’m bushed” he thought aloud. He took what he had just done with light and instead of trying to force or strain himself to make a flame he combined light with a spark and got his desired result after what felt like hours. He slowly lowered his head so that his horn could touch the kindling in his firepit and then extinguished the light and flame of his horn hurriedly used the sheets from the bedroom to make bedroll, though it really just looked like he laid out another picnic blanket. Sol then plopped down a little too hard and rolled to his side to face the fire. His stomach rumbled loudly as he lay and stare at the fire. He thought of home and a tear fell down his cheek as he slowly drifted into dream world. Only to be met by a midnight blue horse with wings and a horn, he had seen her before but he couldn’t place his finger or hoof on it quite yet. She faced him with a smile and motioned him closer and as he approached he recognized her from the mural in the ruins and Sol came to have more questions as he grew more confused with each step.

Chapter 2: They're not horses?

“What I’m gathering from this and correct me if I got this wrong Miss, I mean Princess Luna, you and your sister Princess Celestia who move the Moon and Sun, the most proficient with magic, do not know why I’m here, or why I’m a GODDAMN HORSE?” Sol only got progressively higher pitched towards the end of his dreamscape interaction with one of the diarchs of the unfamiliar land he found himself on. All he’d managed to gather so far was that he was in a land called Equestria full of...

“Well yes and again please Mr. Hamel we are not horses we are ponies, remember I said that word has an entirely different meaning here.” Luna said, interrupting Sol’s train of thought as he was trying to grasp what was being told to him and hoping this was a dream within a dream moment and that he would wake up as his human self in the morning but he’d bear with this for now not that he had much choice in the matter. “And when we awake I will inform my sister of what you have described to me.” Luna raised an eyebrow at him and tilted her head “and you’re absolutely certain that you remember nothing of your trip to Equestria or your change from a hoo-man to a pony?” She asked again as she was trying to figure out if what he was saying was true. Yes there was a magical disturbance hours prior but she wasn’t quite convinced what he said was true or if he was the root cause. Though, she would find out sooner or later if he was lying when he made it to Canterlot for questioning.

He rubbed the back of his neck, “I’m sorry about that Princess, still a little shocked I guess and please call me Sol” he waved a hoof to dismiss the formalities “but yes I have no recollection on how I got here, and it’s Human pronounced kind of like hue when referring to a color and then man. I’ll go into more detail later about my kind or former kind now.” He chuckled emptily “I'm just glad I have someone to talk to and that I know where I am. You said there was a town called Ponyville? Could you maybe point me in the right direction?” Sol let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding after he asked Luna about directions to a town, civilization of any kind was better than some old linens and cold marble in the middle of the forest.

“ When you wake you will cross the bridge on the west side of the castle where the sun rises and walk the path through the forest, worry not it will be safe and I will let Twilight Sparkle Celestia’s best student know of your journey from the ruins of our former castle, and she shall meet you halfway and escort you safely to Ponyville”. Sol slowly nodded at her as now that most of his questions were answered he had one more he wanted to ask but he was starting to feel the pull of reality taking him from his dream. “It is almost time for you to wake, but don’t fret, you will be safe and I will ask Celestia if she knows anything about this, until the morrow Mr. Sol” and with the final bow of her head, Luna was gone and hopefully for Sol this was just a nightmare that he would wake from and he would be back in the park at home in the fields by the playground. It would probably be late so he’d get an earful from his mom but at least he’d be home.

Sol jolted awake as the sun began to peak through the trees in the west, and Sol groggily went to rub his eyes to still feel hooves where his hands and fingers should have been. “So it wasn’t a dream within a dream thing, goddamnit” he swore under his breath as he got up and looked around.

“I'm sure the Princess will let this Twilight Sparkle know where I am soon enough. I should look around aaaand I'm talking to myself again” Sol mumbled and began to look around for anything he could use or read. Survival was essential to him and all but now that he had directions and a pseudo rescue squad meeting him half way he wanted to explore, if he was going to be stuck in Equestria he was going to explore the hell out of it. As he made his way back towards the room he took the linens from the day prior he walked into the room to see the mirror again and to look at himself a bit more in depth. He examined his mane albeit messy and dirty due to sleeping on the ground all night.

“I can’t wait to shower or bathe or whatever they have in this world” he thought. Sol then started to turn and noticed a mark on his flank, “That definitely wasn’t there on earth” he muttered with his rump now facing the mirror seeing a sun with a moon facing upward inside of it. “Man, a tattooed pony interesting… then again I believe Luna had something like this on her ass too” Sol began to recall the night's prior dream remembering Luna’s Moon on her moon and he chuckled at himself and blushed. Why was he getting flustered thinking about one of the rulers of Equestria's asses? Sol decided to that doing and thinking anything else were better for his beet red face. He then faced the mirror again, shook his head and glanced himself over again. Noticing nothing else amiss and he then went to check the room for any trinkets or,

“A book hell yeah” He galloped over to book on the nightstand next to the bed almost tripping himself in the process. “Ok so walking is ok, running's gonna take a little bit” he thought, stabilizing himself. He then went to reach for the book and then froze, and huffed in annoyance and mentally scolded himself,

“No Hands remember!”. As quickly as he was annoyed he was also excited when he remembered he could use magic now and what better way to get better than practice!

Sol spent the better half of 15 minutes trying to use magic again like when he lit the fire.
“Ughh there has to be a trigger or some trick to this since telekinesis seems to elude me” He racked his brain to try and replicate what he did for the fire, and for the next hour he sat on the ground and thought about what it was that helped him use magic before. Then it hit him like a bus, “so I had to apply logic from Earth! Light to fire and now it should be…” His horn lit up and the book began to float towards him off of the nightstand and he let out the least manly squee he had ever made himself and quickly raised a hoof to cough into it.

“Ahem uh yea let's put that in the good ol’ mental vault”. He’d applied what he’d known from Earth to utilize gravity and what he knew of the low gravity in space. Now whether or not he’d be able to control the density of the space his magic occupied was for another time. But it was an understatement to how overjoyed he was to get the hang of magic at least for now. He would have to ask about the specifics from someone in ponyville if he got the chance. He levitated the book above him as he pranced out of the rooms and noticed a golden bracelet laying next to one of the doorways. Using his magic he put it on his left hoof and saw some purple runes on it but thought it looked cool so he put it on his left hoof. Sol then continued on his way as he pranced out the front of the castle ruins to see the spot he awoke in the evening prior still sunk into the tall grass. Taking a deep breath he reminisced of his home and family on earth and shook his head and focused. The morning dew that coated the forests trees and grass combined with the fresh morning air filled his lungs and steeled him on his short journey through the forest, where hopefully the others were on their way to meet him.

Chapter 3: Out of the forest and into society

“So… Luna said that I needed to cross this bridge and head west along this path” Sol mumbled to himself as he began to trot along the path ahead of him. Getting the hang of running on 4 legs was something to get used to and that was kind of an understatement. As a kid Sol had run up the stairs with all four limbs but that was seldom and not a consistent thing he did. Though the more he moved the better acquainted he got with his new equine body. Continuing along the path he grew bored and then slowly levitated the book he grabbed castle ruins and cracked it open. The contents of the book were a diary or captain's log of sorts. It contained personal notes to the owner who seemed to be a guard captain from an order called, The Knights of the Eclipse. It talked about the requirements to join, and how the unnamed captain was disappointed in the new recruits that had just come through the selection process. These Knights were supposed to be the best forces of the Lunar and Solar guard besides the captains of the other respective forces. Sol was enraptured by the details and drawing designs of the armor the guard wore. He would have to ask Luna about the order when he got to see her. Sol continued to flip through the Captains diary, losing track of time. Only looking up to stay on the path he carried on as the Sun rose higher and higher in the sky signifying it was around noon. Eventually he heard voices that made him look up from the book.

“Princess Luna and Celestia said that somepony was around the Castle of the Two Sisters and we needed to help them” The feminine voice said and was met by Sol waiting by a tree until the source of the voices came into view. He saw a purple unicorn, an orange pony and a yellow Pegasus, at least that's what Sol thought a winged horse, err pony should be called.

Sol cleared his throat and said, “ Uh… Hey I think I’m the one your Princess Luna sent to find me” rubbing the back of his head realizing he was being really awkward. Sol began again, “I was told to meet you guys halfway. Did I do ok getting here?”

The 3 mares looked at him startled and then looked him over before the purple Unicorn spoke up. “You made it a lot further than halfway, we have only been walking for about an hour” she looked at the book in his magic still floating just under Sol’s chin. Her eyes lit up and she rushed over to him, “ What are you reading about? Do you like it? Do you have any, hey!” Her bombardment of questions had been halted by the orange pony when she tugged on her tail.

“Twi, you’re scaring the poor stallion and we haven’t even introduced ourselves yet” The orange pony gave a tip of her hat and began her introduction, “Hey there sugar cube, I’m Applejack I run an apple orchard in ponyville with mah’ family and you can call me AJ for short, this here next to me is Fluttershy”

The yellow Pegasus shied away from him and tried to hide behind Applejack. She was intimidated by Sol but not because he seemed aggressive. His eyes, the star pupils and the soft lavender color made her want to stare which wasn’t like her. Then noticing she was the center of attention, spoke softly while continuing to hide behind Applejack.

“um…uh… Hi” her introduction came barely above a whisper that Sol had to lean towards her over his book to hear her. Which made Fluttershy blush and look away from him after her brief introduction.

“Sorry about that Mr. Sol I get excited when I see books I don’t recognize, but Hi! I'm Twilight Sparkle but just Twilight is fine. We can talk while we get you to ponyville.”

Sol nodded and agreed, “That works for me and hi to you guys and just Sol is fine, no need for the formalities please. I'll have to thank Luna when I see her; oh and thanks for helping me it’s been an interesting few days for me so it’s nice to have someone to talk to” he awkwardly chuckled and closed the book in his magic, “Well lead the way I don’t know where i’m going or where I am so it's up to you”

As they started back towards ponyville in an awkward silence, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Twilight had a lot of questions for Sol but they didn’t want to make him uncomfortable. Considering Twilight had bombarded him with questions when they met within seconds of them meeting Sol. Finally Applejack spoke up about something Sol said when they met that was bothering her.

“Sol, I had a question about something ya said earlier regarding Princess Luna” Applejack turned her head around to look him in the eyes. “What did you mean by Your Princess Luna? She would be your Princess too, seeing as you are a pony, and how do you not know where ya are sugarcube?”

“Ah that uh, those Aj are good questions” Sol looked at the ground under Applejack's intense stare. “What I meant by your princess is an interesting story that I myself am not too sure how to explain to you right now and the same would be said for not knowing where I am” He sighed and chuckled with more pain in his voice than he thought would be there.

The three mares leading the way all exchanged glances and stopped to face him. They looked at him with slightly worried expressions on their faces. This caught Sol by surprise so much so that he lost focus on his magic and he dropped the captain's log he had been hovering behind him; much to his disappointment. He had worked so hard to get his magic to work after all.

Then Twilight spoke up after a few seconds and ignited her horns magic, “Sol …you wouldn’t happen to be a changeling would you?” The three mares stared at Sol. “ It’s a little odd that your eyes are so different from everyone else's. I don't know anyone with a 4 point star for pupils that's a pony or any of the other species in a matter of fact”, the three mares staring at Sol looked on guard while they waited for his response only to be surprised by his reaction.

“Youaskedifi’mawhatnow?” Sol spit out those words as he could not have been more confused about what the mares in front of him just asked him. “You mean there are other races in this world other than talking ponies?” He was as stupefied at the revelation as he was in awe that there were other races besides ponies. As the last sentence came out of his mouth the mare's jaws simply dropped and Twilight's magic faltered as she watched Sol sit down and bring a hoof to his chin as he ignored the baffled look on their faces. He began to take guesses at what else could be out in the world.

“ I wonder what kinda races I'll run into!?” Sol exclaimed, “A Dragons, or Mermaids, maybe Werewolves, ooh are there any Griffons?” He rambled. Now truly intrigued in the world he had found himself in.

Twilight shook her head and “What do you mean talking ponies? You are a pony; and besides we can ALL talk and that doesn’t answer the question, are you a changeling?” Twilight was beyond confused at what was going on. She was speaking to a grown stallion that was fascinated by the bare basics taught back when she was learning as a filly from Celestia.

Sol stopped his guesswork at what he could run into and focused on the 3 in front of him. “Ah well, I’m not entirely sure what a changeling is but I know I'm not whatever that is”. He said with not the slightest hint of hesitation, which made Twilight, Applejack, and Fluttershy all relax a bit. This prompted Fluttershy to speak up for the first time since.

“So um Sol, you look like a pony but you talk like you aren’t one, so um what were you” She all but whispered. Sol then paused and sighed again, thinking of the best way to explain accidental interdimensional travel and emphasize the accidental part.

“Lets walk and talk at least, I am not a fan of the woods right now I spent the night out here, but I'm ready for a shower and food.” Sol tried to deflect the question for as long as he could while he collected his thoughts and got his story together. Remembering the captain’s log, he struggled to ignite his horn to pick up the book he had taken with him. After succeeding he followed behind the 3 mares with his gaze locked on the now extremely interesting dirt path.

Begrudgingly walking ahead of Sol, the 3 mares who had more questions than answers. Though for some reason, they felt they could trust his words. His retrieval from the Everfree was a request from Princess Luna so they figured he would not be an immediate threat to them. They were not unfamiliar with odd speech as when Luna came back from her banishment she spoke in old Equish. So a disoriented pony perhaps from the past wouldn’t be too out of the ordinary for them. Besides, it's not like they couldn’t defend themselves anyway.

After about 10 minutes of Sol gathering his thoughts he still couldn’t find a good way to bring up that he wasn’t from this world originally. Other than just saying it out loud it would be awkward, or worse they wouldn’t believe him. The increasingly annoyed glances back at him weren’t helping either and he was over it. He, Sol Hamel formerly of earth, would just say he wasn’t from around anywhere here.

“The best way I can say this is that I genuinely don’t know how I got here, I just woke up yesterday in the grass outside some castle ruins. I looked, felt, and spoke differently. I was another being all together.” Sol said pausing for a few seconds before continuing. “I am err…I was a Human, a bipedal mammal. With what I can gather from our conversation, is that intellectually we are no different than the sentient creatures on my world”

The 3 mares didn’t turn around when he finished, they just stopped and froze. It was as if time had slowed as he waited for a response from them. Then finally Twilight spoke up as all 3 of them turned to face him.

“You’re saying that you traveled between worlds and you don’t know how? And on top of this you weren’t always a pony?” Twilight looked at Sol as if she had just seen a ghost, but quickly composed herself and spoke again. “Well… if what you say is true then we need to go see my teacher Princess Celestia. If anyone would know how you got here or perhaps a way to send you home, then she would.” All 3 mares nodded in agreement and Sol's eyes lit up as the prospect of going home sounded all too good to him. Looking at the 3 mares in front of him practically pranced beside them. He bowed and motioned his hoof for them to lead the way.

“Milady’s then please let's not lollygag here” Sol happily exclaimed which brought all 3 mares to giggle and continue on through the forest. As ponyville came into view in the distance Sol’s heart was racing a mile a minute. He could smell food for the first time in a day and his stomach growled fiercely at the prospect of food.

Sol arrived in ponyville alongside Twilight, Fluttershy, and Applejack and was all too eager for the amenities of civilization. Namely a meal, a shower, and a bed to sleep in.

“Uh, thanks again for helping me out of the forest. I really appreciate the help and consideration.” Sol's stomach then growled louder than earlier and he blushed in embarrassment. “I haven’t eaten since I got here. Can we maybe get something to eat please?”

The three mares next to him giggled and started walking until they came across a house next to the forest. Fluttershy then began to leave the path into the city and spoke up.
“Ummm Sol I hope everything goes well, and I'll see you around, umm maybe” It was Fluttershy’s turn to blush as she flew off towards the house as fast as she could.

Sol waved, and continued to follow behind Applejack and Twilight, as they made their way through the town looking for a steakhouse of some kind or a sandwich shop. He didn’t care but a well seasoned steak medium-rare, was a prospect that made his mouth water in anticipation. Before he could ask what they were going to get the trio had arrived at a small shop with outdoor patio dining. It was a corner restaurant but set up from like a café and enclosed around the side walks by a white picket fence. Looking around it seems to be relatively empty, then again looking at the clock when they walked into the lobby it was around 3:40pm so lunch rush had probably just ended. Twilight went and sat at a table towards the corner facing the street. Applejack and Twilight sat next to each other and Sol across from them and they opened the menu.

“Sol, do you have a preference on appetizers? We are probably going to get a daisy salad to get us started” Twilight said, not looking up from her menu. In not looking at him she happened to miss his scrunched nose and furrowed brow.

“You said a what salad? Could I just get a Caesar if we are doing Salads?” he asked while using his hooves to open his menu. He could have tried to use magic but he was still very much unsure how to be more precise with his and could do without the further embarrassment. “Let's see what’s in here I could so go for a steak, or a BLT and fries” Sol began to daydream a bit about his regular orders from earth. Though his reverie was broken when he looked up from his menu to see horrified looks on Applejack and Twilights faces.

“What did I say something wrong? Do they not serve that here, or is it called something else here? Cultural differences I tell ya” He chuckled nervously as their looks of disgust did not waver in the slightest. “What's wrong with you two, is there something on my face?”

The two mares exchanged looks and then turned back to Sol, “Uh maybe you wouldn't know sugarcube but ponies don’t eat meat…” Applejack said quietly as to not alert any of the other ponies in the restaurant. She motioned for Twilight to chime in so she could look at her menu.

“Ponies are herbivores Sol, so the mention of eating meat in a public setting is well…” Twilight trailed off as their server came over and gave them each a water.

“Good evening, I am your server Silverplater. What can I get you three to start with?” He said in an accent Sol recognized well, French which made him chuckle under his breathe. Silverplater used his magic to bring out his notepad and a pen and started with Applejack who ordered a daisy sandwich and a lemonade. Twilight got her daisy salad and water, then Silverplater then turned to Sol, “Sir what can I get you?”

“I’ll just take a caesar salad, with extra tomatoes”, he said dejectedly. Silverplater then put his pen away and walked back to the kitchen to put their orders in.

“As I was saying” Twilight began again, “asking to eat meat is a taboo. Other races such as hippogriffs and griffons eat meat. Dragons do as well occasionally;but not ponies” She glaring at him as said in the last part of her makeshift lesson on dietary habits of the creatures of this world. Sol taking that nasty look as an invite to explain himself was quick to do so.

“Well from where I’m from, humans of my former race.” Sol says motioning to himself, “Are omnivores. We eat plants, meat, and fish; to be honest there is little we didn’t eat as a species” What he said which made the two mares flinch at the implication. Sol noticed this and scrambled to put them at ease. “Ahh err well horses…I mean ponies were not on the list of consumable animals we would eat, if that’s what you’re worried about” As he finished his last sentence Silverplater came out of the back with their food and Sol was all to too eager to stop talking and eat.

“Please let me know if there's anything else I can do for you” he said and bowed to the three of them and left to take care of the other guest that had came in. Sol took this as an opportunity to try his magic on the fork. He ignited his horn to move his fork, this time imagining a his hands or rather his former hands to pick up the fork. This to his surprise succeeded and Sol was so happy he didn’t have to struggle with hooves and a fork. He had no clue how Applejack was doing it but he was not apt to find out. After he figured out his magic hand, Sol tore into his food, politely but efficiently.

Twilight and Applejack looked at his magic and just stared at the Azure figure feeding Sol across from them. The five digit extremity looked like a dragon's claw but with dull claws and instead had 5 fingers not 4. Twilight noticed this and decided to ask him about it later and Applejack just brushed it off as she sipped her lemonade.

After finishing their meal Sol glanced at the clock before leaving and saw it was 5:00 pm, just in time for dinner, which was an odd thought for him considering he just ate. He would have to speak with Twilight about what alternatives were available so he could get some bigger and more filling meals together.

“Ok sugar cube I’m gon head on back to tha’ farm” Applejack said stretching before giving Twilight a hug and then turning to face Sol, “Try not to cause any trouble will ya and I'll see ya later Twi” She then turned and set off.

“Ok… so what do I do now? Where is Luna or Celestia, do they not stay here too?” Sol asked Twilight, who had just finished paying for their meal, looked at him annoyed.

“It’s Princess Luna and Princess Celestia, please have some respect for the rulers of Equestria” she sighed and motioned him to follow her, “and no they don’t stay in ponyville, they stay in the castle in Canterlot. The ruins you were at were the castle Princess Luna and Celestia used about a thousand years ago” Sol was taken aback by the casual statement Twilight just made

“Wait hol’, up did you just fuckin say they, as in plural, used A THOUSAND years ago. Your rulers are over a millennium old? Jesus Christ” He said that louder than he meant to but that was beside the point. The mural he saw were the rulers of ponies and they had been doing so for a century.

“Well, yeah they are older than a century each but don’t really look a day over 30.” Twilight said, “and it’s a gift and a curse but with age came wisdom for them so hopefully when we hear from them we can figure out what’s going on” She then stopped and turned and smiled at him “So in the meantime you will be staying with me, and we can exchange information about each others worlds! It's not everyday a being from another world just ends up on your doorstep”

Sol sighed and smiled back “That doesn’t sound too bad I have a lot of questions regarding magic, and how everything works here, so as long as you help me with that I see no issue” The two of them then made it Twilight's treebrary, as the sign hanging next to the door welcomed him Sol to.

“Uh Twilight, why are we going to a tree library? I thought we were going back to your house? Sol said, confused and Twilight giggled.

“This actually is my house, I live above the library and there is plenty of extra room, I'll have Spike set it up for you” She said as she opened the door and called out, “Spike we have a guest, can you get the guest room ready please!”

What Sol saw next was nothing short of a dream come true for him. As he walked in behind Twilight admiring the hundreds of thousands of books she had, he saw at the top of the stairs a scaly green and purple dragon.

Sol then proceeded to let out again the least manly ear splitting squee as he jumped up and down and screamed, “HOLY FUCK ITS A REAL DRAGON! TWILIGHT YOU DIDN’T SAY YOU HAD A DRAGON.”

Chapter 4: Magic artifacts and a Candy colored mare

After Sol’s outburst he immediately ignited his horn to use his magic hand to cover his mouth, “Awh hells, I'm so sorry about that. I did notmean to scream that loud at all my bad'' He looked over at Twilight whose ears were now splayed against her skull in response to his sudden outburst.

“It's ok Sol, I think I can forgive you after how we met” She giggled and looked at Spike who had his claws covering his head. “Sorry Spike I should have told Sol about you beforehoof, but I digress”

Spike moves his claws away from his head and grumbles, “Yea a heads up would have been nice Twi especially since you know I struggle with those fitted sheets” Spike now acknowledging Sol now turns to him, “And Hi Sol, I’m Spike Twilight's assistant if you have any questions while Twilight is out i’d be happy to answer them. The guest room will be ready in a few minutes ill see you around here” and with that Spike disappeared into one of the rooms up the spiral staircase of the tree library.

“Thanks again for helping me in the forest, and helping me not making me look like an idiot at the restaurant. I appreciate the kindness of you and your friends more than you know”

Sol looked at Twilight with tears beginning to form in the corners of his eyes,they were full but not quite ready to fall.

“I woke up in a new world with no warning, thrust into a shape I'm not used to with a physique alien to me.” Sol closed his eyes recalling the moments before he fell asleep. “ I fell asleep after a picnic with my mom at a park. She makes the best potato salad, and barbeque ribs. I wonder if I went home with her would I have still ended up here? Or would someone else be here right now?” he took a deep breath as Twilight began to walk over to him

“I hear you, it’s not quite the same but I can understand being thrown into a role or practicing for a role and not feeling ready for it” Twilight began to go into detail of how she was set to be the Princess of Friendship, and how she didn’t feel ready. “Honestly Sol, I have no idea how the other Princesses do this but I know having people around you helps, and you can count on me and my friends!” She said smiling at him

“Thanks Twilight, I appreciate the encouragement” Sol began to wipe the tears from the corners of his eyes, “ I’d love to hear more about the other royalty, since i’ll be in contact with them soon. I want to be able to give my respects and work with the 2 of them. And considering they’re your teachers I’d like to thank them too.”

“First you need a shower” Twilight covered her nose in a playful manner as Sol blushed at this. He nodded and in agreement and Twilight motioned him follow so she could show him to the bathroom so he could wash up.

Sol laughed for the first time since getting to Equestria, and not a chuckle of amusement or hysterical laughter, but full belly laugh. When he was finished laughing he began to follow Twilight. Once she showed him where the soaps, and towels were, she headed for the door to the bathroom.

“I’m going to go ahead and turn in for the evening, so if you need anything don’t hesitate to ask Spike or knock on my door!” Twilight said cheerily and with that, she walked out the door.

Sol went and closed the door and listened to the sound of her hooves as she walked down the hallway and he didn’t move until he heard the click of her door closing. He sighed and put his flank to the door with a soft bump and slid down sitting on the white marble tiles. His stomach was starting to bubble and he had a pounding headache all of sudden.

“Ugh, what happened I feel awful, couldn’t have been the salad,” Sol mumbled to himself as he used his right hoof to massage his temple. “Let’s just get in the shower and go find Spike.”

He then got up and used his magic to give himself the hottest shower he could handle. Thinking of the day's events as the water poured over him. The water soothed him as he began to think about the magic he had and how happy it made him. Sol then picked up the shampoo bottle and soap and lathered himself accordingly. Now making use of his ability to make hands his azure aura now sported 2 magic hands to comb through it for any bigger knots in his mane and tail. The pain that had begun to fade when he first got in the shower now grew in him as it moved up from his stomach to his sides and his back.

Deciding this was enough he washed out all the shampoo in a rush and turned the water. As he dried himself off he winced as he got to his back. Sol carefully dotting his back with the towel moved on to his head and did the same. He unlocked the door and made his way out of the bathroom. He looked around and saw Spike walking into a room with sheets and water.

“Hey Spike!,” Sol called out, as the little dragon popped his head out of the room to look at him

“Sol what’s up” Spike said as he yawned conveying the long day he’s also had

“Don’t stress the rest of the sheets for the night. I'll be ok. I get really warm when I sleep” Sol said, walking down the hallway towards the guest room.

“Are you sure you’ll be ok?” Spike looked between the half made bed with blankets at the foot of it and at Sol. “I’d hate for you to be uncomfortable, ya know?” Spike said, looking at Sol to make sure he was certain.

“Spike thank you for your help” Sol said as he reached the room the little dragon had been cleaning. “You and Twilight have done more than enough to help me get by today. I promise I’ll be ok.” Sol raised a hoof to pat Spike on the head gently and he smiled.

“Uh yea ok no problem” Spike unsure how to feel about the head pat just stared up at Sol. He felt oddly safe in his presence, kind of like when he’s with Twilight and Celestia. He then shook his head slightly and held a claw up to his face to hide his rosy cheeks.

Sol smiled, “ Have a good night Spike and again thanks a bunch for your understanding” He then moved his hoof and walked Spike out of the

Spike nodded at him claws still up on his face, “Yea if you need anything my room is next to Twilights so uh just knock”

Sol chuckled, “I will Spike thank you” and then he closed his door and layed down on the bed. He used his magic to lift a blanket over him and turn the lights off. He noticed that the bracelet from the castle ruins on his wrist was now glowing a crimson red, and purple. Sol layed in bed holding his hoof up to his face inspecting the bracelet so he could see the runes on it. As he did so, a jolt of pain surged through Sol. He twitched, groaned and tossed about all over in his bed. The headache he had, felt like his skull was being split down the middle. His sides and back felt as though something was being held back and it wanted out. He then groaned again and the last thing he saw was the bracelet glowing brighter and brighter before he passed out from the pain and exhaustion.

Upon waking Sol smelled the making of eggs, and toast. As he sat up he remembered the bracelet from last night and. He looked down at his hoof to see that it had gone from shiny gold with purple and red rune writing on it to dull silver. The runes on it had faded except for one that he couldn’t read. It looked to be a singular word but he’d ask Twilight about it when he saw her.

Sol then went to the bathroom to freshen up for the morning. He was given a toothbrush by Twilight when she showed him around the bathroom. He brushed his teeth and rinsed his mouth out and then looked at his mane in the mirror.

“Did I miss something or did it get longer?” Sol mumbled and shrugged it off. He’d just add it to the list of things to ask about. Then Sol paused as he turned back towards the door. Did his eyes play tricks on him or did he see correctly. He went back to the mirror and turned to the side and froze.

“Hey Spike!, are you up here by any chance?” Sol said hoarsely.

And as if right on cue the little dragon had jogged down the hallway and answered him, “yeah! I'm here Sol, what do you…” Spike also froze and looked at Sol. “Um, Sol, that's you right? and why do you have wings?”

Sol just stared wide eyed Spike and laughed and shrugged, “It’s just one thing after another isn’t it” he continued to laugh which caught Twilights attention.

Twilight left the kitchen and came up the spiral staircase to find Sol and Spike, “you two breakfast is rea…” Twilight’s jaw practically hit the floor as she looked at Sol. The former unicorn that she had housed was now a part of the very small community of alicorn's.

Sol’s new set of wings weren’t the largest by any means but did fit his frame. His mane had indeed gotten longer along with his tail.

“What the buck happened to you?!” Twilight said, alarmed at his new appearance. “How did you even do that? There's a whole process and approval and training and.” Twilight was cut off by Sol

“ Look, Twilight,” he said calmly, “I don’t know but I have an idea about it. Can we eat breakfast and talk about it, freaking out isn’t going to help me explain better” he said adding a sarcastic emphasis on the last bit of his statement.

Twilight closed her mouth and turned red embarrassed by her outburst and said, “Yes let's do that Sorry.”

Sol said nothing and just smiled at her and walked past her down the stairs and plopped down on a stool and sighed. As Spike and Twilight got to the kitchen and got seated Sol began to tell them about the night prior and its events once he got to his room.

After Sol had explained what happened the night prior with the bracelet and the pain Twilight had asked to borrow the bracelet. She then started to look through her library for anything on a forced alicorn transformation. Spike was told to send a letter to Celestia and Luna and when Sol witnessed how he thought it was pretty cool how after writing the letter it went up in green flames .This left Sol up to his own devices, so he went to Twilight to ask her about magic before he felt like he’d be a bother.

“He Twilight uh I have a question about magic” he said trying to see her through the stacks of books around her.

“Oh Sol yea what kind of question did you have in mind?” Twilight’s eyes lit up at the incoming question.

“So how do you do magic?” Sol asked, “Er to be more specific what are the principles around doing magic and spells? Magic wasn’t a thing back in my home world” He said watching her now look at him, her eyes practically sparkling now.

“So there is no magic on your planet? Interesting!” She levitates a notepad and pen and writes. “But to answer your question, magic for unicorns is usually tied to their cutie marks, and is limited to mundane tasks. It's usually rare for someone to be able to create their own magic and spells unless it was their talent.”

Sol paused for a moment and took in what she said, “So … what is the criteria for creating a new spell, and what's a cutie mark?”

“The criteria I know of would have to be trial and error of making a magic circle, or like most Unicorns its mental visualization” Twilight said. “Most unicorns that use magic are again limited to their special talents or cutie marks the images on our flanks” She then pointed to hers. “My specialty is magic so making and casting spells is second nature to me”

Sol then looked at his which was still the sun with the upward facing crescent moon. “So my talent is connected to the sun and moon, interesting! Are there any other ponies that have talents related to the sun and moon?”

Twilight looked at him and smiled , “ Princess Celestia’s cutie mark is the sun and Princess Luna’s is the moon. They are the only other two ponies that I am aware of that have cutie marks related to the sun and moon” Twilight using her magic conjured an image of The diarchs to show him.

It was Sol's turn for his jaw to drop, “So you’re saying my special talent is related to the talents of royalty, and I have already met one of them?”

Twilight just giggled and nodded, “Yup! They raise the sun and moon everyday and have done so for centuries and are 2 of the other 3 alicorns around right now.”

Sol just stood there baffled before he picked his jaw up, “Well I guess we will see if I live longer than a century” He joked, “I’ll let you get back to your research, I'm gonna go walk around town”

“Here take some bits for your time out you might get hungry!” She handed him a small cloth pouch and waved him off. “Come back if you need anything”

Sol waved and smiled back at her and walked out the door, “So I got wings, a horn, and I found the criteria to make magic. Got something to do awesome” he mumbled and set out to walk around town.

As Sol made his way around town he was getting a lot of stares from every one. Though he couldn’t really blame them, finding out that there are only 3 other alicorns besides him so he might be a rare sight.

Sol decided he would look for something to hide his wings. A clothing store of some kind, hoodies were always something he was fond of so maybe he’d buy one. He wandered around the town for a while until he paused to take in what he was seeing.

A pink mare, more specifically a pink alicorn was walking around protected by guards. They were heading in the direction of Twilight's tree library. Sol just figured it was Twilight’s business regarding getting him sent home. Sol went to turn around but stopped when he heard the pink mare speak to her guards. She was a cotton candy pink with a pink, purple, and cream mane and she was gorgeous.

“My little Twilight sent Auntie Celestia a letter about another alicorn. How interesting that now of all time, we get another one!” The mare sounded happy about the news which had Sol feeling conflicted.

But overall Sol was enraptured by this pink mare which he found really strange. He loved the playful tone in her voice, he loved her voice if he was stunned by her. He felt his cheeks heat up and he had to shake his head.

“What in the fuck is wrong with me jesus christ get it together man” he berated himself which caused a few ponies passing him to give concerned looks.

“Princess Cadence, all due respect, what if this alicorn is a danger to us?” One of her guards spoke up and asked. Sol paused and listened for her response and he was pleasantly surprised by her response.

“That's a good question sergeant” she smiles and keeps walking her guard not far behind her. “But if there is a problem the elements and Auntie Luna and Celestia will deal with it” She continues on as Sol watches her as the distance between them gets larger and larger until he can no longer see her.

Sol stood in the middle of the market watching her, still dumbfounded by the beautiful mare he had just seen. Then he decided to continue when he could no longer see her. Deciding to look for a hoodie or the pony equivalent of one. This led him to wander around for hours. In doing so he ended up walking by a school While there were kids playing around.

“Look at the princess guys look, look!” 3 of the fillies and a colt from the school yard had run up to Sol mistaking him for a princess.

Sol chuckled at them and looked down, “One, I'm flattered but I'm a stallion and two I'm not royalty” he reached over and patted one of the fillies on the head.

“I thought only the Princesses could be alicorns Mr. ?”the colt asked and looked at his wings.

Sol spread his wings and flapped them a few times before tucking them in again, “I thought so too pal but I guess not.” He smiled

“You should come back to the school with us! Ms. Cheerilee wont mind, right guys?” The final filly said and the others agreed and started pulling on Sol’s leg.

“If you guys say so, but I won’t be staying for long” he sighed and followed the kids to the school house where they immediately went to their seats. Before he knocked on the schoolhouse door he heard the voice of an older mare inside.

“Where have you four been? You were late to come back inside again, you can’t keep wandering off. I was worried sick!” She scolded and one of the fillies from outside spoke up.

“We met a Prince and he was really cool! He’s coming to see us!” she said giggling as she saw Sol in the doorway. “There you are Mr.!”

Sol couldn’t help himself and he laughed as he lowered his head to not hit his head on the door frame and faced the mare at the front of the class. “Sorry to intrude but you must be Ms. Cheerilee. I’m Sol and certainly no prince so please don’t treat me as such”

“Oh um yes Hi Sol” Cheerilee stammered she wasn’t sure if this was real or not. Alicorns were royalty no matter who they were for one reason or another so she was confused to see one in such a casual manner. No ornate horse shoes, or golden crown, or even a necklace. It was as if he was truly a normal pony.

“Well, welcome to the school house you can introduce yourself to our class and if you have anything to add please do feel free to do so.” Cheerilee said finally composing herself.

Sol wiped a tear from the corner of his left eye, “ Sorry I didn’t mean to laugh, I love kids and I couldn’t help myself when the little ones insisted I was prince or princess and that I come with them” He then turned to the class,

“Hello everyone err, everypony I’m Sol, and I'm just a normal pony like all of you. I am no prince or anything like that I promise” he waved a hoof dismissively, “and if I had anything to say to all you” He paused for a moment to scan the room seeing that all of the fillies and colts in the room were on the edges of their seats waiting. “It would be, to be grateful for your family and loved ones”

One of the fillies in the back shouted out at him, “Mr.Sol what’s your cutie mark for? Are you related to the Princesses?” the others chimed and Sol held up a hoof to silence them.

“As far as I know I’m not related to the princesses, and I don’t know what my cutie mark is for I have some memory problems” he smiled and started to head for the door, “Thanks for having me Ms. Cheerilee and you little ones study well.” Sol then walked across the school yard and looked up at the sky. The sun was straight above him so it was about noon and he figured he would keep looking for his clothing store.

The students in the classroom all looked at each other and smiled as if thinking the same thing. Though none of them started talking to Cheerilee’s surprise and this made her smile along with her students as Cheerilee began her lesson over Equestrian history.

“I'm bushed where the fuck is the clothing store dude?” Sol swore under his breath.

Then coincidentally as if the gods were watching him he saw a sign that pointed him in the way of a boutique. This was his best bet he thought and started trotting the best he could up the dirt road to the shop.

Once he arrived he was so relieved to see that it was still open as he went to knock on the d boutique door. He waited a minute before a voice called out to him,

“Come in darling. I'm in the middle of something I'll be with you in a moment” The feminine voice called

Sol, not hesitating, opened the boutique door and found a couch in the lobby and sat down. He examined the room he was sitting in. The interior was a mix of humble rhinestones and jewels, but in a posh way. That was the best description Sol could come up with until a mare spoke while walking into the room rubbing her eyes.

“Sorry darling I have been very busy today but that doesn’t matter what I can do for yo…” Her reaction was the same as everyone else's and Sol couldn’t help himself and chuckled again .

“Names Sol I am looking for a hoodie or a sweatshirt with a hood please” He smiled at her and continued, “And before you ask I'm no royalty or anything like that so please love, close your mouth you’ll catch flies”

At this she composed herself and giggled and his banter, “Aren’t you the charmer, I am Rarity darling pleasure to meet you, and yes I could make you one would come with me so I can get your measurements?” She asked turning to walk back into the previous room.

Sol getting up from the couch followed her into her work space and stood where she was motioning him to stand. Rarity used her magic to float a measuring tape over, using the tape measure each leg, his back, his neck and head.

“Oh could you also not put wing holes in it please?” Sol asked breaking Rarity’s concentration for a moment

“Why would you want to do that darling? They are wonderful!” She asked genuinely curious as to why an alicorn would want to hide their wings.

“Long story, but It was an accident on how I became one just kinda” He hesitated for a moment recalling the pain and shivering, “woke up like this. So if I ever go back to being a unicorn like I was I’d like to not have to unnecessary holes in the fabric”

Rarity obviously confused on how someone accidentally turns into an alicorn just nodded at his request and finished her measurements. If anyone knew what happened it was Twilight so she would just ask her later.

“You can wait in the other room this won’t take me too long, I have something similar started already” Rarity smiled at him and shooed him away into the other room. Sol laughed and left the room leaving Rarity to her work.

After Rarity finished Sol’s hoodie he went to pay her but stubbornly refused to take bits. “Darling it seems like you’re going through a lot right now and it wouldn’t feel right to be paid. Consider it a gift”

“I’m not used to that at all please just let me pay you” Sol said, “Working for free doesn’t make a living so how much was it?”

Rarity, now annoyed, put her hoof down, “I am not accepting payment and that's that. Consider it a gift. Now move along I'm sure I'll see you again and you can just tell me how much you use it then” She Smiled and walked to the door with him.

Sighing Sol gave up and smiled, “Alright Rarity, thank you for the hoodie it means the world to me” He then waved at Rarity and headed towards Twilight’s since it was getting late again.

Sol then walking to the Library saw some of the fillies and colts that were at school out with their parents for the night. They saw him and waved, which made some of their parents stare at him wide eyed. Apparently some of them didn’t believe in the non royal alicorn in ponyville. Continuing on, Twilights came into view but not without some of the guards he had seen earlier in the day. This prompted Sol to throw on his hoodie so as to not alarm the guards with the conversation he heard earlier still in his mind.

Walking up to the door the guards moved their spears into the way of the door, “Sir there is royal business inside you cannot enter as of now. Please come back later” one of the guards said.

“This is kinda my temporary residence, and I'm tired. I'm sure Twilight could explain this” Sol said, reaching to knock on the door only to be stopped and pinned to the ground.

“Sir we have already said come back later” the orange guard was basically sitting on him but it was effective nonetheless.

“What’s going on out here?” the mare's voice Sol recognized from earlier. Cadence was her name he thought, he couldn’t see her though with the guard on his back.

“This stallion claims to be staying here but we have received no word so he is being detained” The guard said.

Cadence only giggled at this and motioned her guards to be at ease, “He is telling the truth, although Sol, why hide your wings?” She asked him.

Sol getting up and brushing himself off began to meet her eyes only to turn beet red in doing so. She was even more beautiful up close, and now that he could see her eyes, those lovely amethyst eyes.

“Um It was just easier to not draw attention to you, I mean me, not draw attention to me,” Sol turned his gaze away from her.

“Well that was certainly a good idea had our visit not been just for you” Cadence said motioning him inside. He went to follow and the guards resumed their positions outside and Sol closed the door behind them walking into the Library space.

To say the least it was a mess but Sol wasn’t really phased by this, his room on earth had seen worse days. Twilight seemed to be diving head first into finding answers and Sol was touched and a tad worried that a stack of books would fall on her.

“So uh Princess Cadence what brings you here?” Sol asked the pink mare, still avoiding eye contact.

She smiled and moves her hoof under his chin to move his face, “Please just Cadence is fine, and I am here in the stead of Princess Celestia, to bring you to Canterlot, for an audience”

Sol, unable to look away from her, mentally blue screens and his face is the darkest shade of red it's ever been. Cadence just giggles at him and moves her hoof away from his face.

“Though I doubt there should be any problems with you, you don’t hold any ill feelings for this place anywhere in you” she says going to sit away from the mess Twilight had been making looking for answers on the bracelet.

“Ah yea, it’s not like there’s any reason to do so, It’s pretty nice here at least from what I can tell” Sol said trying to get his heartbeat back under control.

“Well that makes me very happy and it will make my aunts happy as well.” Cadence said, “We will depart tomorrow for Canterlot and you can tell me all about yourself” she smirked at him which did nothing to help Sol’s heartbeat or hormones from going wild and Cadence knew it.

Taking a deep breath Sol tried to find his composure, “I, u-uh, yes!” was all he managed to get out. Before he continued he heard Cadence laugh.

“Sorry I’m not laughing at you I promise it’s just, nevermind continue” her laughter subsided. She hadn’t had anyone truly interested in her since Shining armor, Twilight's brother had passed. Along with her ability to sense the emotions of people, she knew who cared for her and who didn’t.

“Do I like you? What the fuck is wrong with me I can even think right” Sol said a little to loud. Which made for a very awkward silence when he looked up from his hooves, he saw the confident persona Cadence had crumbled, as she too was blushing and no longer making eye contact with him.

Twilight, deciding to make her presence known again, pops up in the midst of the book jungle she had created. “Ugh I can’t find anything on Sol’s bracelet, this is so frustrating Cadence can you help me..” She paused looking at the two sitting across from each other on the other side of the room.

Twilight mumbling to herself, “What's going on with those two?”

Chapter 5: Lineage and dreamy mornings

Chapter 5: Lineage and dreamy mornings

Twilight looked between the two ponies for what felt like an eternity and sighed. She then went back into the stacks of books.

“I’ll see you two at dinner time I'm gonna just, keep looking” She said slowly prying her gaze away from the two on the other side of the room.

Sol, nor Cadence lifted their gaze from the floor. Sol did so because he was embarrassed that he had said what was on his mind out loud. His bad habit picking the absolute worst timing to be made known. Cadence however wasn’t as bothered by the outburst as Sol thought she would be. Instead She was more flustered at the genuine attraction towards her that he felt.

It was a deeper feeling than she got from all of the nobles that courted her, or the ponies that saw her when she was out and about. It is the purest feeling she had felt in a long time, and yet she felt bad because she was going to tease him. Like she did with those that looked at her as a token to move up the social ladder, or some breeding mare. Cadence felt shame on top of confusion as to why she was so attracted to a stallion whom she just met, and by the sounds of what her aunt told her, not originally from Equestria. Cadence opened her mouth to speak and then closed it, she was unsure what to say to him, or how to apologize.

Sol then looked at her and put his hoof out, “I look forward to getting to know you over the next few days” he smiled and continued. “I hope I didn’t offend you with what I said earlier, I’m just so confused with everything that's been happening to me”

Cadence took this opportunity and took his hoof and just held it, “I was not offended in the slightest, actually” She blushed looking at him. “It was quite refreshing and I appreciate it”

With the awkwardness starting to clear up Twilight came over to them. Sol and Cadence had actually hit it off and had started to talk about hobbies before turning to Twilight.

“Sol, I don’t know what that bracelet is, I haven’t been able to find anything of its kind in any of these books” Twilight said exasperated. “I have been looking all day but I guess we'll just have to look at the Canterlot library”

“I didn’t expect this to be so easy so don’t worry about it. We'll find out about it or we won't. I’m no longer in any rush to leave” Sol said and then paused. He looked over at Cadence who had turned a light crimson at his words.

Cadence got up and quickly walked down the hallway and into a room and closed the door. “I can’t do this if he’s going to be so bucking adorable ugh” She sighed and jumped on the bed. It smelled oddly familiar but she paid it no mind for the moment. She needed to calm down and do so fast. Cadence, realizing her guards were still outside, decided to use her magic to send them a brief letter of dismissal until noon of tomorrow.

Sol and Twilight exchanged glances and Sol raised an eyebrow, “Huh, smells like Strawberry bubblegum, did you have any?” Sol asked

Twilight just shrugged and shook her head, “No I haven’t, It was probably Cadence. Though did send Spike out to get something for us not too long ago. I hope you don't mind a hayburger.”

Sol not recalling seeing Cadence chew anything moved on, “That’s fine by me, I have to get used to the food here anyway.”

Twilight thinking for a moment stopped and turned to him, “I’m going to put these books back so I’ll probably be out for the night. We head to Canterlot tomorrow, so we’ll need to pack for the trip. The train that leads directly to the castle was destroyed when we were attacked by changelings a couple months ago.”

“So that’s why you were so on guard when meeting me, makes sense to me” Sol shrugged and sat back on the couch in the living space, “I’m gonna do my own thing for a bit so have fun with those books, I'll help out in a bit”

“You don’t have to help me, I made the mess and I’m sure Spike won't mind lending a claw to help” She giggled and used her magic to start sorting the books again.

Sol not deciding now was a good time to practice his magic, closed his eyes on the couch and thought about what Twilight had told him about magic. He needed to visualize what he wanted, and it would take effort to do something outside of his talent but he could do it. Sol began to visualize a container first for his magic, he didn’t want to ruin any of Twilight’s books; he might not get a chance to get home if that happened. He then began to visualize a fire, within the container, along with water, and some leaves.

When Sol opened his eyes, he was happy to see that he had succeeded in his magic. He wanted to stabilize the magic so he could use it as decoration. Using his knowledge from earth, he thought of the periodic table and the elements he could use and combine. Iron and Carbon to make the glass, using an enameling process he used the combination for powdered glass to make mix into the glass. For Sol to be able to hold the now enameled glass he made, he would need to think of Carbon and Iron at high temps in order to make the steel.

Visualizing all of this in his head Sol made a makeshift elemental terrarium. This was not however the quietest process to go through as Twilight had half finished her books and looked over to hear the crackling of magic she didn’t recognize. Seeing the making of and combining of elements and objects floating around Sol she was in awe.

“Phew that really takes the wind outta ya don’t it, Twilight why didn't you tell me using magic was this tiring?” Sol said whimsically not holding his elemental terrarium in his magic aura which was no longer an azure color but a deep crimson now much like the color in his mane.

“Um actually I did, if any other pony had attempted what you just did…” Twilight paused before walking over to Sol and examining the box. “This would have had a pony out for weeks, this is something even the most experienced magic specialized ponies struggle with.”

Twilight, much like earlier in the day, used her magic to levitate her notepad and pen over and she began to inspect what Sol had just made. Going over the glass and the steel frame and checking the stability of the elements within.

“This is exceptionally well made! And the stability of the elements is top tier. How did you do it!?” She asked, getting a little too close for Sol’s comfort.

He gently pushed her face away from his and sighed, “It might not look like it but I separated each element before giving it a magic source to keep it going so each element is in it’s own area technically but you can’t see that”

Before Twilight could ask any further questions Spike came through the door with their food. Sol was relieved and went to greet the little dragon and help him inside.

“Hey Spike!” Sol said, also putting down the cube on the table, “Lemme help ya with that” and before Spike could say anything Sol had lifted the bag of food out of his hands and moved it to the table”

“Uh thanks Sol, you doin ok? you look exhausted dude” Spike said. He then walked over to the table where the food was and had a seat on a stool at the table and began to sift through the bag. Pulling out, rubies, emeralds, amethyst, and a diamond, then proceeding to crunch down on them which made Sol wince at the sound..

“Huh I guess I did hear Twilight tell you you eat gemstones instead of meat makes sense, and…” Sol paused to yawn, “But yea I am a little bushed now, I’m using magic for the first time in well ever.”

Spike looked confused, “What do you mean? You were a unicorn before this,” Spike motioned to the new set of wings, “How have you not been using magic?”
Sol remembered that Twilight had only said Sol was a guest and not the specifics yet. So he went into detail with Spike about what's happened to him in the past three days since ending up in Equestria.

Spike and Twilight listened to Sol intently as when Sol had finished talking about what he had been doing before getting sent to Equestria, he asked about Earth.

“So this Earth doesn't have magic? And the ponies in your world don’t talk?” Spike was taken aback by this revelation.

“Yup pretty much, and Humans are the only beings capable of speech patterns, also no dragons as far as we know of ” Sol said and spike stopped mid crunch of his last gemstone. Spike looked at Twilight who was writing down everything Sol had said about his world of origin

“That’s really fascinating, so what I’ve gathered is Science is used in place of magic when explaining how your world works!” Twilight not looking up from her notebook and writing vigorously.

Yawning and standing up with his hayburger finished, Sol picked up all the trash on the table in his magic and threw it away. “Those hamburgers aren’t too bad, kinda like the bean patties in my world. But it’s late now and making that really did wear me out” Sol picked up his creation.

“Ahh sorry I got excited again, I’ll see you tomorrow. These books won’t put themselves away” Twilight motioning Spike to follow her, much to the little dragon's displeasure. Nevertheless the duo went back into the stacks of books and went to work putting them away.

“Sounds good and do get some rest. It's been a long day all around for all of us” Sol chuckled and walked down the hallway and opened the door to his room.

After entering the room Sol set the cube he’d made on the nightstand and walked over to the window. Seeing the moon full and high in the sky he admired the dark cloak and bright orb in the sky. Sol stood in thought as he noticed a lack of stars and constellations in the sky. Feeling a pull in his mind and body his horn lit up. The now crimson aura he had flowing from him skyward, and with this brought all of the constellations from his home world. The north star brighter than it had ever been reflected perfectly back into his pupils. With this the sky was more than a dark blanket with a few dull stars in it, it was art, it was perfect. Sol could recognize some of what he had brought to the now well detailed sky; Antlia, Ursa Major, Capricorn, Libra, and his favorite Aquila the eagle.

Sol stared proudly at the sky he had just created, then feeling extremely drained now he went slid into bed. He grunted and turned over and held his pillow, which was oddly warmer, and softer than he remembered it being the other night. Though Sol couldn’t be bothered to open his eyes and investigate as he nuzzled in and drifted off to sleep with the smell of strawberry bubblegum filling his nose, making him grin in his last moments of consciousness.

Sol rubbed his eyes as he looked around and saw a white void he remembered. This was the dreamscape and if the timing was anything to go by he would be getting a visitor again.

“Hello Sol, it’s great to see thee in such good health!” Luna said happily. “Hast thou seen the night sky, the stars! The lost ones came back to us briefly after many many moons! I was going to ask if our niece has made it to ponyville?”

Sol’s eyes widened at her saying that, “Lost stars? Really? I did that before I passed out. It took a lot out of me ya know” he said rubbing his left foreleg.

Luna stopped her prancing about and looked at Sol inquisitively, “Are thou sure thee brought our stars back?” The look on Luna’s face was serious yet Sol could do nothing but laugh.

“Of course I did! the sky seemed to be missing something and then my magic kinda just moved on its own, though I’m sure it was only brief because I pretty much passed out” Sol said smiling. He couldn’t explain why he was so proud of the stars, he loved them as a child and studied chemistry and astrology growing up.

“We find thee interesting, bringing back the stars, yet you bear the mark of the sun and moon.” said Luna getting lost in thought. Sol thought it was strange too, but he only did what felt natural to him, which is what Twilight said most magic was attributed to doing.

“Well only time will tell, Cadence, Twilight, and I will be heading to Canterlot starting tomorrow. Maybe we will also find out why I’m no longer a Unicorn right?” Sol asked hopefully.

“Hmm yes thou makest a fair point, no use in dwelling on it now.” Luna said now facing him again. “We thank thee for the stars nonetheless, we have longed to bring them back and have failed. A proper reward will be ready for you when thou arrive” puffing out her chest at the declaration Sol already knew he couldn’t stop her especially after his run in with Rarity he knew there was no fighting it.

“I’ll look forward to it thanks Lu-, Princess Luna” Sol corrected himself and she bowed to him

“Until the next time we meet, Sol we pray thee safe travels over the next few days” Luna said before shifting the dreamscape back to Sol’s original dream.

Sol could have done without the dreams that night. Even in his dreams the smell of that strawberry bubblegum, and Blueberries was stuck in his nose and it was driving his hormones crazy and he couldn’t figure out why. Sol’s dreams were filled with Cadence and Luna and their curves, in rather compromising positions. Any way Sol could imagine them, they were looking at him. Their eyes alluring and half lidded, drawing him in, inviting him, needy and ready.

Sol felt something move him and he grunted, not ready to wake up, “Five more minutes ma, it ain't time yet.” He draped a wing around his pillow and nuzzled up to it. He took a deep breath and relaxed, catching that familiar scent that was driving his hormones crazy and smiled. His dreams still fresh on his mind

Cadence who had been awake for the better half of 2 hours, being spooned by Sol. She didn’t pay attention the previous night to whose room she had entered as she was extremely embarrassed at what he had said the day before. She couldn’t get up to sneak out either as he had her gripped tightly against him. She would have been perfectly ok had it not been for something pressing up against her lower back as he held her. She wasn’t uncomfortable, which was the problem as she was fighting her every instinct that was telling her to grind back against him.

Sol had begun to wake at the smell getting stronger and his watering a bit. “What is that, Jesus Christ it’s hot in here” He mumbled. Then he was flicked in the muzzle and this woke him a little more as he opened an eye to look down his muzzle to see a pink ear. He then opened both eyes and moved his head back to see; Cadence now craned her neck to look at him with a blush that could start a fire and doe eyes that made his heart skip a beat too many.

“Uhh h-h-hi Cadence what brings you h-here” Sol stammered. His brain working overtime first thing in the morning was not what he had expected after such the glorious dreams he had just had.

“s-Sol could you let me go your uh,” She paused and spoke barely above a whisper, “You're poking me in the back” Cadence had to look away from him while saying this. She wanted to be coy, or to tease him but she couldn't bring herself to do it. His scent was intoxicating, and she couldn’t think straight.

Sol’s breath hitched in his throat as he looked down horrified that he was not only spooning a princess. He was also using her back as a placeholder for his erect member, though Sol could swear she was trying to inch as close to him as possible.

“Ah s-shit my bad I'll uh go first” Sol spat out as he scrambled to get untangled from the sheets on his bed. Failing miserable and falling out of his bed yelping. This prompted Cadence to sit up and check on him but before either could move further the door opened.

“Sol you alright in the-...” Twilight had stopped mid sentence when she saw her former babysitter and one of her best friends sitting on Sol’s bed. The scent in the room overpowered the sage she had burnt earlier in the morning. As if Twilight had an epiphany she did remember this smell, it was Cadence, she blushed. Her nose was then assaulted by another smell, not unpleasant but strong, A mixture of coconut and blackberries.

“Ah s-sorry for interrupting I'll be going now, I’ll see you guys at the train station, bye!” Twilight then hurriedly closed the door and the sound of hooves running down the staircase. Cadence and Sol then exchanged worried looks as they heard a crash, and then a slamming door.

“Man, quit the morning aye?” Sol said chuckling as he got up and walked to the door, “I’m gonna go shower so people don’t get the wrong idea” he then opened the door and walked to the bathroom.

Cadence sat there in the bed for a moment longer and then began to get out of bed. Looking back at the sheets she used her magic to take them off. She then headed straight for the laundry room to clean up the mess she had left. Smiling at how warm and safe she had felt just minutes ago. A feeling she had long missed since she had lost shining armor.

Enjoying the hot water Sol sighed in contentment while the water poured around him. Soaking into his mane and coat. Though his brief respite in the warm water didn’t last long as his mind started to wander back to his dreams.

“Nope Nope NOPE, not the time for this” Sol reprimanded himself as he turned off the shower with his magic and started to dry himself off. He heard hooves in the hallway again and assumed it was Cadence going back to her room. When he got out of the shower and dried off he headed back to his room only to find Cadence still in the room.

“Uh I washed your sheets they were uh dirty yea” Cadence said sheepishly. Though Sol really wasn’t listening, he was stunned looking at her again. She had tied her mane up in a ponytail, and had disregarded her royal horseshoes and gold accents. It was simple yet, he preferred her this way.

“Oh uh thanks, you might grab what you need for the trip to Canterlot” Sol said, refocusing on what needed to be done today. “We should probably focus on that, I’m gonna go grab something to eat.”

Cadence, finished making Sol’s bed giggled at this, “So serious now” she walked up to him and batted him with her tail, “ I’m going to get ready now, wait here” Cadence disappeared before Sol could respond so he ended up waiting. After 10 minutes Cadence emerged from her actual room with her mane done. Sol could have sworn something was different but he couldn’t put his finger err hoof on it.

“my belongings will already be on the train so there’s no reason to help me pack, and if that empty room is anything to go by… I’d say you're good to go as well?”

“Mmm actually,” Sol said, igniting his horn and grabbing the book from the castle and his magic terrarium, “This is everything, what now?”

“Let's go out and get breakfast. I know a lovely place in the market” Cadence said, starting to walk ahead of him.

“Works for me after you milady” Sol bowed and motioned her to walk ahead of him. Though she laughed at this Sol had an ulterior motive thanks to his rather steamy dreams the night before. Following her out of the room and looking her up and down before shaking his head. Once the pair were out of Twilight’s, Sol walked beside her and the two walked through the town.

While Sol and Cadence were eating breakfast, somewhere Cadence had picked Sol saw some familiar faces. Though it looked like they were getting ready to go cliff diving with all the equipment they had.

“Hey you 3 what are you up to today?” He said, smiling at them and motioning them closer.

“Prince Sol, you're still here!” The white unicorn filly said to him,

“Thanks for coming to our classroom yesterday!” The small orange pegasus said.

“We really appreciate yer comin to see us” The final yellow filly said.

Sol could only laugh at them thanking him, “Again i'm no prince you guys” He raised a hoof and patted each of them on the head eliciting giggles from them. “What are your names? ‘You three’ doesn’t suit me” They puffed up at this and were visibly happy at his inquiry into wanting to know them,

“I’m sweetie belle!” the white unicorn said, “This is scootaloo.” The filly pointed to the small orange pegasus next to her.

“And ahm applebloom”the yellow filly said in her familiar accent.

“And together we are the CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS” They said in unison

Chuckling at this Sol said “It’s nice to see you 3 doing well, but uh what are you doing?” he asked, tilting his head sideways and looking at the equipment the 3 fillies were hauling.

Scootaloo excitedly jumped up and down, “Sol we’re going to try and get our cutie marks today! We’re gonna try and invent something new!” The three nodded in agreement at this declaration and Sol could shake his head and smile.

“Well you three be careful, and here take some toast before ya go” Sol used his magic to pick up 3 pieces of toast and butter them. He then proceeded to stuff them in the fullies mouths before they could get out a thank you, causing cadence to giggle at the fillies expression.

“I’ll be going on a trip after this so I’ll see you guys if I come back here” Sol said chuckling as the 3 fillies looked at him a little disheartened. He couldn’t take it so he remembered his magic cube he made.

“Here take this, call it a gift from me. I like you guys and this is the first thing I ever made with my magic,” Sol said, levitating the cube to rest in the middle of their equipment.

“Are yah sure ‘bout given us sum special like this” Applebloom said

“Yes I am, keep it with you guys as a token to remember me by, I don’t know when I’ll be comin back.”Sol said dejectedly, “I can think of no-one, err nopony better to hold on to this”

The three looked at him and nodded as Sweetie Belle spoke up, “We’ll put it in our treehouse Sol, we promise to take care of it for you!”

“Alright enough of the sappy stuff get outta here and go get your cutie marks” Sol said motioning them to head out. They giggled and ran off with their equipment and Cadence followed them with her gaze until they were out of view.
“They seem to have taken a liking to you huh?” Cadence said teasing him

“I love kids, they're amazing, and their imaginations. They should be nurtured and besides they looked like they needed some encouragement” Sol passionately said which made Cadence's heart skip a beat. After the 3 so called crusaders left the rest of breakfast went by nicely for Sol and Cadence. They looked at the clock and saw it was around 10 and decided it was time to head to the station.

Arriving at the station the two were garnering a lot of looks from the citizens of ponyville. Cadence paid them no mind as she looked for her guards, and Twilight. Sol however wasn’t accustomed to the attention and was doing his best to distract himself by looking for Twilight and admiring the architecture.

“There you guys are!” Twilight said from behind them and galloping over to them

“Twily!” Cadence said turning and hugging her “are we about ready to set out?” she asked

“Yes we are! Your guard is patiently waiting on platform twelve, if they wait any longer they are gonna lose it” Twilight said giggling

“Lets not have another incident like when I first became a princess” Cadence let out an exasperated sigh. Then together the three of them met up with the guards who saluted Cadence and Twilight and ignored Sol. Much to the irritation of the pink mare who let out an annoyed huff which made him laugh as they boarded their train car.

Sol followed Twilight down the narrow hallway once they boarded the train. Twilight then turned and used her magic to open their private Cabin car. Sol turned to walk in and his eyes widened at what he saw. The Cabin was set with amenities that you would see if you paid for your own private jet back on earth, set with refreshments, appetizers, and was that a kitchen on the other side? All together more than he expected, then again he was with royalty so he really shouldn’t have been surprised at this point.

“Are you just going to stand in the doorway the entire ride, or are you going to come and have a seat?” Cadence said sarcastically, batting her eyelashes at him for extra emphasis.
“hmm…If you're going to take that tone with me, I might as well,” Sol shot back at her. The two stared at each other and then giggled. Sol walked into the Cabin and used his magic to close the sliding door. He sat next to Twilight facing Cadence which prompted her to puff out her cheeks in annoyance.

Sol sighed and smiled, “ So how long was this trip to Canterlot again?”

“It's about 3 days for now, since the railway is being repaired.” Twilight said. Sol figured it was going to be a long trip, so he used his magic to open the diary again and began to read as the train began to move towards their destination. A little over four hours into the ride, Cadence had gotten bored and left the cabin to talk with her guards. Twilight, figuring now that it looked like Sol was halfway through his book, decided to ask about it.

“Um You’ve been carrying that book around since i’ve met you, what is it?” She asked, seeing as it had no title, or author.

“Hmm that's a good question, from what I’ve gathered it's a diary or journal of some kind. From a captain of a group called The Knights of the Eclipse. It has a lot of cool armor designs, and ideas regarding defensive and elemental magic spells.” Sol said,marking his place and turning to Twilight.

“It goes into the production method a bit, and these magic circles are a little scuffed but I've been trying to restore them while reading so more of the journal makes sense. It’s partly how I was able to make that elemental terrarium. But here have a look” Sol said, levitating the book to Twilight. She covered the diary in magic and used a trace spell to find any semblance of the original owner.

“I don’t sense much from this book which is weird, most books have something that attached them to the owner” Twilight tilted her and flipped through the book briefly until she froze landing up the last page. She saw the royal seal that was used briefly post-unification of all races. Though that wasn’t what caught her eye, it was the stamp next to it. The faded stamp mark of one of the most brilliant unicorns alive, Star Swirl the Bearded.

“This was a diary of…” She paused trying to contain her excitement, “O-Of Star Swirl the Bearded, the wisest unicorn in Equestria and not to mention Princess Luna and Celestia’s mentor!!” Twilight was almost screaming, with how loud she was getting.

“Twilight please relax for a second and explain what all of this means? Star Swirl the bearded? That's an interesting nickname for sure?” Sol was only getting more confused by the minute as Twilight gingerly put the diary down as if it were holy scripture from church. Do ponies even have church? Questions for another time he thought, focus on getting these answers now.

“Oh r-right” Twilight said composing herself, “Star Swirl lived centuries ago alongside the Princesses and was their mentor in magic, politics, and was a father figure to them.” Twilight used her magic to make an image of Star Swirl and when Sol saw the picture he twitched.

“He also is the reason we have such a basic understanding of how magic works and its principles. Among being one of the biggest political forces behind Unifica-” Twilight was cut off

“T-t-that looks like my opa!” Sol said to Twilight's confusion.

“He looks like your who?”Twilight said, tilting her head.

“My grandpa! Twilight I think your Star Swirl was my Opa Star, the tattoo, err cutie mark is the same one Opa had on his chest!” Sol said with a mixture of shock and excitement. If this was true he was reading his now deceased grandfather's journal. The shock quickly turned to confusion, if this was his grandpa, then how did he leave this world and was there a reason Sol was here in Equestria.

“That can’t be true Star Swirl disappeared around half a millennium ago” Twilight said thinking about what he had just said. Normally if anyone else had said what Sol said, but the expression on Sol’s face and the tone of voice gave her doubts.

“Well as far out there as it is, time could flow differently for each world,” Sol said, which made Twilight make a face. She knew it was in the realm of possibility, since Sol himself came from a different world, so why couldn’t the inverse happen; A pony being sent to earth and becoming a Human.

“That could very well be possible, but-” Twilight was cut off again by Sol

“We could just ask the Princesses, I can ask them about my Opa and maybe what I know will align with what they have to say or their memories of him.” Sol said and used his magic to open the book again.

“Read this with me, maybe something else is in here that will help us” He nodded his head towards the book and the two of them began from the beginning. Conversing and debating the meanings of the words, and magic within.

The cabin door had slowly slid open as Cadence came back from her meeting with her guards. The sun was setting and the mental exhaustion was apparent on Cadence's face as she closed the door.

“Those Guards ooh” Cadence said angrily, “Honestly I can handle a train ride without one of them in here at all times” She looked over at Sol and Twilight shoulder to shoulder conversing about magic theory, and politics. Though she paid no mind to the topic as much as she paid attention to how close they were to each other. Her cheeks burned hot, as she saw this and then took a deep breath. There was no way she was feeling jealous of Twilight, not like Sol decided to sit across from her. Ok maybe she was a little jealous Cadence thought.

“Oh, Welcome back Cadence” Sol said, noticing the pink pony standing by the doorway. He smirked, “You gonna stand in the doorway all trip or are you going to come join us.”

She laughed at this and walked over to them and sat down across from them and saw the book in front of them.

“What are you guys reading about?” She asked trying to read the upside down magic circles and words next to them

“Apparently this is Star Swirl's journal from…” Sol looked at Twilight, “When did you say this was from again?”

“During unification, and this is new magic and theories I have never seen before, It’s genius really” Twilight said leaning back in her seat and looking out the window.

“Well I would expect nothing less from the most famous Unicorn a that ever lived” Cadence said looking at Sol who was using his magic on one of the circles in the book

“Well if he is my Opa, I would expect nothing less from him, he was a genius really, had lots of scientific awards from his college” Sol said daydreaming about the time he spent in his grandfather's house looking at his shelf full of awards, and books.

“Your what?” Cadence said confused and Twilight giggled

“I said the same thing at first too, but uh apparently Star Swirl could be Sol’s grandfather” Twilight said, turning from the window and looking at Cadence.

“Really? Like we are talking about The Star Swirl right?” Cadence said shocked

“Yup as you guys say The Star Swirl” Sol chuckled “Opa’s name was Star Hamel, but I never did get his middle name but I guess there was a reason” Closing the book Sol yawned.

“Well this explains your magic aptitude if this were the case, that's for sure” Twilight said beaming at him “You might even get better at Magic than me!”

Sol blushed at her enthusiastic compliment, “Uh thanks Twi, I appreciate the compliment” Sol then yawned again and then got up, “ I’m gonna head to sleep we got another 2 days.”

“Your room is labeled, it should be down the hallway, go right when you leave” Cadence waved at him as he left.

Cadence watched him leave and close the door behind him before she sighed. This made Twilight look back at Cadence and smile at her. It had been forever since She had seen Cadence smile like that and as much as Twilight missed her brother, seeing Cadence happy was just as important.

“Like him that much don't you?” Twilight asked giggling as Cadence absentmindedly stared at the door.

“Mhm” she said in a daydream still not paying attention

“So you're gonna tell me about this morning” Twilight asked smirking

“Mhm- wait what?!” Cadence snapped back to reality and spun to look at Twilight, “ nothing happened, I promise it was an honest mistake even if I didn't mind the cuddling. He's even well endo-” She sealed her lips before the last bit came out and this sent Twilight into a fit of laughs falling sideways in her seat, tears forming in the corner of her eyes.

“you might prepare him for Princess Celestia’s teasing. There’s no way she is going to let him go, especially with how you look at him” Twilight wiped the tears from her eyes and faced Cadence, "Or the way he looks at you."

“I’ll see you tomorrow then Twily thanks” Cadence said, still red in the face as she walked out of the cabin, to her room. She took one look behind her towards Sol’s room and then turned and walked to her room to turn in for the night.

Chapter 6: Inheritance and a fervent wish

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 7: The Constellation Weavers antics

Author's Note

Please READ THIS, This chapter will contain NSFW content. Granted it will be towards the end. This was your heads up and let me know how I did. Thanks for all of the favorites, saves, follows and Love 💖

Chapter 7: The Constellation Weavers antics

Sol was let back into the castle by the guards, who nodded at him and opened the gates for him. He immediately went back to the audience room to find it full again save for Twilight who was nowhere to be seen. He set the pastries on the table and levitated one out and hovered it over to Celestia. Celestia amusedly took the opportunity to tease not only Sol, but Cadence and Luna.

“Oh you shouldn’t have” Celestia purred, catching the attention of the formerly distracted Princess of Love and Princess of the moon.

“Oh but of course milady here you are” Sol playing along. He thought she was going to take the pastry from him. Well, she did just not in the way Sol expected.

“Mmph mmm” were the only sounds that were heard in the room as Celestia leaned into the pastry in Sol’s magic and stuffed half of the pastry in her mouth.

“Iths so begg,” the muffled words came out in a way that made Sol blush as he lifted his magic and began to back away. Noticing the glares from Luna and Cadence he decided his best course of action was to finally go check out his Opa’s office on the north end of the castle. More importantly the other side of the castle.

“I’ll uh… see myself out then since I brought the pastries back” Sol all but scrambled out as the glares only got sharper. If looks could kill he’d have to be reincarnated a few different times over for it to not be overkill.

After Sol left Cadence and Luna sighed and giggled before turning back to Celestia. Celestia finished her pastry, licked her lips and smiled at the two mares in front of her.

“Hmm did you two need something else? I said he was all yours, I didn’t say I wouldn’t tease him. He’s adorable” Celestia said smugly, which made Cadence and Luna roll their eyes.

“Right Sister, right you are there” Luna deciding to let the topic go sighed, “How was thy meeting with the council?”

“It was interesting to say the least…they would consider it under the condition he prove himself not only to them, but to Canterlot as a whole” Shaking her head Celestia continued, “And should he take this route,well you yourself know better than anyone what that is like” walking over to her younger sister and laying a hoof on her.

“Indeed sister, tis’ not easy but if it is him,” Luna smiled and closed her eyes for a moment, “he will succeed with ease.”

“He is everything Star Swirl said about him, I have no words. He’s considerate, and quite the gentle colt” Said Cadence getting lost in her reverie recalling her brief trip with him.

“If only you could see the stallions dreams Cadence, they are anything but gentlecoltly…and that is putting it mildly” Luna said giggling and blushing. This made the other two mares perk up at this.

“Oh Luna, please pray tell what our sweet Sol dreams about, certainly not us” Celestia said, only prompting Luna to blush a deeper red.

“Well ‘us’ would be Cadence and I then yes.” Luna said timidly “ But you know I will say no more of the dreamscape and what happens there. Dare I bring up a few incidents with your dreams sister.” At hearing this Celestia was more curious,

“If you must, then so be it, but I am very intrigued so please make an exception this once~” Celestia all but pleaded out.

In feigned annoyance Luna huffed, “Fine but just this once sister and remember you owe me~,” Luna all but happily regaled the two mares with a few of his dreams that he had over the course of his time in Equestria.

Sol somewhere in the castle felt a chill down his spine, “Aw hells karmas a bitch.” he mumbled looking at the makeshift map Celestia gave him to find the room.

As Sol got to the office and inserted the key to the room, moonlight was pouring into the office through the four windows and skylight of Sol’s new office space. The room was lovely to say the least. The room with its octagonal shape sported four windows that faced cliff ward toward the sea below. The desk facing the door with whoever sitting in its back facing the sea and on either side a view of the outer limit of the castle walls. The white and grey marble that adorned the floor reflected the moonlight well and the grey stone walls partially absorbed whatever light entered the room. The high ceiling sported a glass dome that allowed one to see the night sky and soon the stars and constellations Sol would bring back to this world. The book cases between the windows and the door were built into the grey stone and Sol chuckled at this detail because in his opa’s home on earth his book cases were the same. Sol had brought some scented candles into the room that smelled of lavender and sea salt.

“Let's see what Opa had been studyin’ shall we,” Sol happily mused as he finally opened the desk. There were two books in the entire desk. One looked similar to the diary he found in the ruins in the forest woke up in, and the other was a spell book. Sol decidedly more interested in magic at the moment opened the book to see it was for purification spells. Specifically against corruption. Reading through the first few major sections of the book Sol saw all sorts of notes in the book, some talked about changelings, and a 'Sombra' a crystal heart and a few other terms that Sol wasn’t familiar with at all.

“Soooo… I’ll come back to that, it seems like I need a history lesson” he chuckled to himself. Sol was intent to make something of himself while he was here, he wasn’t gonna disappoint his Opa not after all the faith he placed in him.

“Let's check this other one first before I look for Equestrian history” Sol mumbled to himself using his magic to close the book. It was a diary just the precious one, but this one talked about events Sol had yet to ask about. While Star Swirl was on earth starting a new life, time in Equestria flowed faster than that of earth. The only reason this diary was here was a one way teleportation spell that upon Unicorn's death would be sent here. The diary was a long story of how Star Swirl botched a spell that sent him to earth and how he had been given a much younger age. In a world without an abundance of magic he had to find ways to slowly accumulate it, but his plan to send himself was stopped. The reasoning behind it, Star Swirl met a mar-, a woman, the diary showed the scratched word and Sol laughed. He did the same thing and it was funny to think his Opa struggled the same way he did. The woman's name was Yura Hamel, Sol’s grandmother.
“So, Hamel wasn’t his idea… Sol Swirl doesn't sound like a name I’d be proud of',” He snickered to himself mentally apologizing to his grandfather

. After meeting this woman Star Swirl was needless to say charmed by her and his plans of going home went out the window. Though knowing he would need a successor he used a spell to send the diary home upon his death, to Equestria along with the artifacts to find a worthy successor. Thinking he was good until he met… Sol stopped reading. The rest he knew, he had seen it, heard it, and experienced this part already. What caught Sol’s eye in the diary was a footnote that marked a page that had been seemingly torn out.

“What the fuck Opa you cant mark a page and then tear it the hell out,” Sol swore disgruntled at being left hanging until he got an idea.

“What if I do this~” he sang quietly to himself. Channeling his magic into the diary, a page formed in an azure hue with golden letters lining both sides of it. His eyes sparkled and he began to read. The magic page talked about the magic associated with being a 'Starbringer' and what it comes with.

“Finally some fuckin answers!” He shouted and continued reading.

‘The crimson aura that comes with the magic of a Starbringer is passed down through the lineage of Unicorns. The properties of this magic rival that of the magic that controls the sun and moon and must be used responsibly to ensure balance among the cosmic entities. The crimson is derived from the solar eclipse the magic was borne of. Needing to find balance between the two sisters whose personalities and ideals clash often a medium was needed. The Starbringer is an artist that will likely be revered but misunderstood, the purpose of the stars is to guide and illuminate, the one who bears the title must be no different. Lead by example, comfort those who need it, offer your wisdom and time and above all else stay true to the beliefs you hold dear. . If the inheritor follows these guidelines the magic will not falter. This magic has been passed on for millennia, silently keeping balance between the entities whether they know or not. Inheriting this magic is the highest privilege given to anypony, that is to say it is not without its perks.’

Sol read each side of the page, then levitating an inkwell, and some paper he snagged from Celestia's audience hall and began to copy the magic onto the paper. Sol got up from the desk and walked to the window behind his chair. Into the night Sol began to use his magic on the night sky’s dark blanket, bringing constellations from earth's orbit into view along with the constellations and stars detailed on the other side of the page. Sol felt at peace mixing some of the constellations he saw fit, he moved to add a heart to libra’s tilting the scale in favor of the heart in favor of the coin he placed opposite it. He felt his imagination was the limit but decided to keep it tame, and kept it at that for the night. He sat down at his desk and lit the candles around the room with his magic. He levitated a couple books of Equestrian history to his desk and one from his bag on modern history, and dipped his quill in the inkwell to take notes.

“Well now's as good a time as any to get started” He opened the oldest history book he had and began his study session.

Sol had fallen asleep at his desk, and the only reason a certain pony noticed this was because he had missed breakfast. If Cadence had picked up on anything, the stallion of her affection was a morning person. She went looking around the castle and ran into Celestia who saw the look on Cadence’s face as if she had lost something or rather somepony.

“Oh dear this simply will not do” was all Cadence heard from Celestia. One moment Cadence was in front of her aunt, the next she was in front of a door. She knocked and when no answer came, she used her magic to open the door and saw Sol face down and drooling on a part of his desk. There were notes, and open books littered across the desk. As she approached she examined them and saw not only Equestrian history but the political systems of Equestria modern and old. Smiling to herself, Cadence walked out of the room and went to retrieve breakfast for Sol. As she started Luna had come in and when the two mares made eye contact they nodded and cooked together. With the help of the head chef of the castle who was impressed to see the two of them near the kitchen. He was more so surprised to see Princess Luna who would occasionally stop by for a bagel or some waffles.

The two mares walked together humming happily when they got back to Sol’s new office before they heard a conversation on the other side of the door.

“Your foreign policy seems to be a little flawed when dealing with the griffons, and the hippogriffs” said Sol

“What do you mean flawed and in what way?” The two mares flinched when they heard Celestia on the other side of the door but decided to eavesdrop to get the whole picture this time.

“I mean your dealings with them are either too lax or too strict, here look at section nineteen article b” Sol said trying to contain his frustration looking at it, “This is an example of too lax, if you intend to keep amicable terms with either, respect of borders and trade routes must be respected. Actually you should let me do this, give me a chance at foreign relations with them. I need a job anyway and this works.It can even be temporary but I’ll go crazy if I don’t help in some way” said Sol bluntly.

Smiling Celestia summoned the rest of the work regarding their foreign relations with other races, “Seeing this, are you sure you are going to be alright? This is at least 2 months of work and we only get more by the day,” she said, slightly concerned. This concern however faded when she looked him in the eyes. His lavender eyes showed no signs of compromise and his star shaped pupils sparkled.

“Trust me, on this I’ll be fine” He said using his magic to pick up the first document and start before Sol could ask Celestia to leave, Sol’s door swung open for him to see Cadence and Luna coming into the room with breakfast.

“SURPRISE TO OUR NEW FOREIGN RELATIONS ADMIN” The two said, floating his breakfast over to him.

“Ah I knew I missed something, I was up all night trying to understa-” He was cut off as both Cadence and Luna walked on either side and kissed him on the cheek.

“We know thee has been working hard” Began Luna

“So we figured a gift was in order though it was short notice” Cadence finished

He wasn’t so much a child he couldn’t handle a kiss, but that didn’t mean he could control the blush on his cheeks. He smiled and said “I-I…Thank you all three of you as much as I’d love to chat, I am gonna get this done and do it right so I’ll be busy for a while. I’ll pay you guys back I promise!” Sol said enthusiastically.

Cadence before turning to leave whispered in his ear with a voice like silk, “I’ll hold you to that sunshine~.” Sol was not prepared for that, and he put his head straight onto the unoccupied section of his desk so the mares in his room could not see his face. His face now matching his magic, caused the mares to giggle and all exit the room. Thus began Sol’s time going over documents, holding meetings, and studying the history and magic. Along with Luna and Cadence occasionally bringing their work to be around him while he worked, not that Sol minded.

Two months had gone by in the blink of an eye, and Sol had finished getting through the stacks of documents sent by each of the different nations' governments. Sol also got used to arranging the stars and constellations each night. Dealing with trade and exchange programs Sol had been a very tired pony but nonetheless he made it through all the backed up work and eventually made it so he was going to have more free time. At least until the fall came, but his workload was so light for the next week, he decided to give Buttercream a visit and grab a few muffins, and maybe something for Luna and Cadence. Sol had spent the little freetime he had with those two, especially since Twilight had to go back to Ponyville since she still had things to do there. Between playing video games with Luna, something Sol had missed, and going shopping with Cadence he had been content with life. They were pleasant to be around and Sol felt good, better yet, he felt great that they felt comfortable enough around him to tell him about their pasts. Cadence told Sol about what had happened in the Changeling invasion, and how her fiance and Twilight's brother had died a year before their wedding. Sol could only listen and comfort her, but he was grateful she told him. Then sometime later Luna had found him and decided she should explain her past too, detailing her corruption, and her banishment. This made Sol think back to the magic he read about in the diary his Opa left him. Neither story made him feel any different towards the two since they had been nothing but wonderful to him. Sol refocusing and exiting the castle waved to the guards at the gate and they waved and smiled back at him.

“Good Evening, anything new?” Sol asked them

Chuckling the older stallion Sol had come to know as, Hearth Shield, was a regular guard at the entrance and a familiar face. Hearth Shield responded, “No Sir, same blue sky,”

“Well I pray it stays that way” Sol said making his way onto the busy streets. The city of Canterlot had actually been good to him over the past month. Sol had become acquainted with some of the shop owners and fruit stand vendors and their children. He would watch over the kids while their parents ran errands for their stands when he had the time to do so. The negative whispers Sol first heard when he came to Canterlot had vanished as he became more integrated into the city and how it works. Waving at the vendors as he walked by and talking with a few of them, he felt at home. Sol finally found himself in front of Buttercream's pastry shop. Sol felt a little bad about using Buttercream as a scapegoat two months ago so he didn’t have to do an interview but he'd make it up to him, somehow. Walking into the shop there was a line that wrapped around the store, and Sol had heard it was like this for the majority of the month. Sol had asked a guard to hop in line for him since he was so busy and he was lucky to have asked before the rush. When news of the Princess of the Sun ordering from this pastry store spread, the ensuing chaos was enough to have Buttercream sell out for a couple days in a row. Somepony in the shop recognized Sol and waved to him.

“Mr. Sol! you’re here!” It was Cinnamon Cream Buttercream’s son, and as he said this the line turned to see Sol standing in the doorway talking to the colt.

“How could I forget you bestfriend, Work has just been killin me” Sol said as he beamed at the colt. Using his magic to lift the Cinnamon in the air and hold him at Sol’s eye level much to the colt's enjoyment Sol continued, “You keeping your dad outta trouble?”

Nodding excitedly and giggling, Cinnamon pointed at his dad behind the register, “mhm mhm I promise I have!, Dads been super busy, so I help him not drop things!” Proudly puffing out his little chest Sol laughed along with the giggling colt. Sol gently placed the colt back on the ground and looked up .The store now silently looking upon the spectacle at the door a stallion spoke to the crowd,

“Are you ‘the’ Sol the alicorn, that does the stars?” the stallion said and everyone in the store waited with baited breath.

“I am but the sun's out, and I’m no royal so please don't make a fuss,” Sol smiled at the crowd. “Mr. Cream need a hoof?” he asked, seeing the pastry chefs ears perk up at the word ‘help’ Buttercream nodded. Sol chuckled and headed into the kitchen with his staff who looked surprised to see an alicorn in their kitchen.

“Don’t just stare,” Sol said sarcastically, “Tell me what you guys need?” Causing an earth pony to throw an apron at him and wave him over to help him knead dough. This is what Sol did for a couple hours of his first afternoon free in a month. Thanks to Sol’s magic however he was able to multitask with the dough kneading and dough making and with little Cinnamon cream helping Sol they got through the rush just fine.

Buttercream appeared in the back kitchen sometime after the last customer in the rush left and froze. The kitchen was clean, for the first time in a month before closing time. The kitchen was clean and his staff weren’t the grumpy men he’d hired at first.

“W-what happened here?” Buttercream said slack jawed. His employees laughed and pointed to Sol who had just finished cleaning out the last of the mixing bowls with his magic. As Buttercream looked around he saw various cleaning supplies wrapped in a crimson magic, tidying up the kitchen.

“Well this business boom is kinda my fault” Sol turned around and laughed at Buttercream's confused expression. “Yea so when I left a couple months ago I got jumped by a reporter and I just told him I was doing a royal delivery. He just so happened to see the name of your bakery on the bag along with a crowd of people…. Whoops”

If Buttercream's jaw could have dropped and further it certainly would have. As all the dots connected for him. All of the new royal advisors that had been stopping by, business owners, even Griffons and hippogriffs, and even Princess Cadence herself. A Common thing he heard when the customers would come in was something along the lines of ‘I wonder what the royal delivery was?’.

“THIS WAS YOUR FAULT!” Buttercream yelled, making Sol laugh hysterically. The employees chuckled at the scenario unfolding in front of them.

“I mean yea who else, did ‘royal delivery’ not ring a bell at all in two months?” Sol teased

“I.. I suppose you’re right, I feel so many different kinds of ways but I suppose I should thank you first, So thank you.” Buttercream bowed his head.

“Don’t sweat it, looks like little cinnamon has been a big help,” Sol said, patting the colt on the head. “Hmm I should give you a present but what?” he mused.

“I wanna see the Princesses!” Cinnamon said cheerfully.

“Cinnamon, he’s not royalty how coul-” Buttercream began to say before Sol laughed again.

‘’I can do that, I’ll find a day when you aren’t in school you can’t skip” said Sol, wiping a tear from the corner of his eyes.

“B-but how?” said Buttercream, confused again.

“You are looking at the temporary foreign policy admin” Sol said, “I will still be around and I will stop by more. I said I would be a regular, which reminds me…” Sol pulled out a list and handed it to Buttercream.

“Mooncakes, and strawberry sweet tarts? These aren’t the usual muffins I send out” the pastry chef then shrugged and made his way to the front to grab the decorations and went to work with his staff to start the pastries.

“They aren’t for me this time I just figured I’d stop by” Sol said, “I have been very busy much like you” He snickered much to Buttercream's amusement and annoyance. After about 45 minutes the pastries were done and Sol went to pay Buttercream but was stopped.

“You don’t owe me anything, you have been kind enough to not only help an old stallion like me out, but bring me business” Smiling at Sol, Buttercream dropped a couple blueberry muffins in too.

“You're cheeky, where did this come from?” chuckling Sol grabbed the bag in his magic, “I might have to start referring the exchange students and ambassadors here since you have time to give me sass Mr. Cream” said Sol smirking as he watched Pastry chef freeze as he left.

“Don’t forget about me Sol!” Cinnamon exclaimed and Sol nodded to him and left back to the castle.

Entering the gates and heading to Luna’s office first, Sol knocked on her door,

“Special delivery from foreign policy,” Sol said, almost singing it. He heard something fall and he winced.

“Just a moment” Luna called out as Sol began to bring the pastry he got for her out. As he did so the door swung open.

“I left the castle this afternoon to grab some pastries from Buttercream’s hope you like it” Sol said, levitating the pastry to Luna who graciously accepted it and hugged him.

“We thank thee greatly for the pastry, and a mooncake no less!” Luna said, happily biting into half of it already.

“Of course, Luna, you've been a great help to me and an even better friend. Not to mention your ideas with the star placement.” said Sol reminiscing on the night sky they’ve created.

“Tis’ what I should say to you,” Luna said beaming at him, “You have brought life back into the night sky and I am happier for it!” Sol was happy to hear that he was doing well with bringing the stars into view.

“Well I’ll see ya later I’m gonna give Cadence her pastry,” Sol said, turning to leave before Luna stopped him.

“Well Sol, best of luck, thou will need it she got first dibs,” Luna said defeatedly.

“What is that supposed to mean Lu?” Sol asked. Luna said nothing and let go of him and walked back into her room shrugging.

“Moon butt you answer me! What does that mean?!” Sol asked again, worried. Luna’s door closed and no answers were given to Sol, as he stared at the door for a moment before sighing to himself.

“Women godsdamn I’ll never understand,” He huffed to himself and set out towards Cadence's room.

Sol trudged across the castle pondering what Luna had said to him. Getting lost in thought, Sol hadn’t realized he had made it to Cadence's room already. Snapping from his thoughts when he recognized the symbols in her door, he shook his head and called out,

“Delivery, I got you something Cadence” Sol said waiting on a response. The response was almost immediate.

The door swung open and Sol scanned the room but saw no sign of the pink alicorn anywhere in the room. She wasn’t by the table next to the window, she wasn’t on the bed. Sol heard her call him from behind another door in the room. The room was dark save for a few magic candles lit to a dark red.

“Come on in! I haven’t seen you all day! eat with me” She said but Sol couldn’t put his finger on her tone of voice. Ignoring that was his first mistake, actually it was one of his better decisions. As he walked through the door, he was hit by the smell of strawberry bubblegum.

“I’ve been meaning to ask Cadence do you chew-”Sol froze. He looked towards the now open bathroom, in the doorway was Cadence, and more specifically Cadence how he had seen her in his more lecherous reveries. Her hair tied up in a ponytail, and she had on black thigh high stockings, and not to mention dark mascara that made her amethyst eyes pop.

Cadence purred. “ You've been a very good stallion, hard working, and sweet. You deserve a reward but what to give you…”

“A-a-A r-reward…?!” Sol stammered, eliciting a giggle from the mare who walked by him. Her tail swept across his flank, across his wings and under his chin as she passed him. As he inhaled he caught the entirety of her scent. That alone sent his brain into overdrive, but the nail in the coffin was seeing her walk past him and her tail moved to the side, and gave Sol an unobscured view of her marehood. Prompting a soft groan from Sol as he stood in the middle of the room watching Cadence saunter over to the bed.

“I’ve seen how you look at me, and some of your dreams, compliments of Luna,” Cadence giggled and climbed onto the bed. “And I think this will be sufficient for you to… what did you say? ‘Pay me back’ was it” Her half lidded gaze piercing right through Sol’s very own soul. His heart was pounding, his coat standing on end, and his attention on her every word.

Sol audibly gulped, “This is what Luna meant by you first?! Well, are you sure about um…this?” He asked, nervously.

Cadence used her wings to motion him closer, and as Sol got close enough she kissed his nose. Nothing deep, just a quick peck. This was more than enough motivation for Sol’s apprehension to fade away.

“Cadence if-” Sol was cut off

“Call.me.Candy.” Cadence said, pouting. Gods Sol loved the face she made when she wasn’t getting her way. Though this was hardly the time to not give her what she wanted.

“Candy, if this is what you really want then…”Sol climbed on top of Cadence on the bed. Looking down at her, Cadence saw her reflection in those starry pupils that she had come to love so much. Sol leaned in and kissed Cadence, at first it was just an innocent kiss. Then the kiss went on longer and Sol wanted more. He stuck his tongue in her mouth, though Cadence wasn’t going to let him have his way that easily. In a wrestling of tongues, Sol had to break the kiss to breathe.

“Jesus, fuckin chri-… remember you asked for this Candy ass ” growled Sol much to Cadence's delight.

“Hmm Did I though?” feigning ignorance she stuck her tongue out at him and winked. Then Cadence shivered as she felt something on her wings. Sol had ignited his horn to conjure a pair of hands and said hands were softly caressing her wings.

“Ahh, you c-can’t do that n-no fair” Cadence halfheartedly complained. Sol ignored her and began to nibble and kiss her neck. His ministrations were rewarded with her squirming and panting beneath him. He stopped for a moment much to Cadence's disappointment and looked at her flushed cheeks and the doe eyes that only excited Sol more. He was ready to plow her into next next week but, first he had to get her back for all of the teasing he had endured for the past month.

He leaned into her ear and whispered, “Trust me candy” was all he said. She nodded slowly and relaxed into the bed. Sol started just below her ears and kissed slowly down her jaw. He moved down the side of her neck that he missed and down to her chest.

“Y-you bucking t-tease” Cadence said barely above a whisper.

“Hmm,” Sol paused for a moment, “I’m just enjoying my favorite flavor, problem?” he smugly stated. Resuming, Sol continued kissing her all the way down to her stomach area. He traced her inner thigh with his kisses making her buck her hips in frustration. Deciding this was good enough he gave Cadence’s soaked marehood a long slow lick. The smell and taste of strawberry gum was overpowering his senses.

“O-o-Oh buckk,” She moaned loudly, making Sol chuckle as he continued to lick her marehood. Cadence put her hooves on his head and held him in place while he continued. Not like he needed air anyway right? Sol thought to himself, but his train of thought was interrupted when Sol felt a strange sensation around his cock. Cadence had begun to use her magic to stroke him while she kept his face buried in her marehood. After about three minutes of this, Sol used his magic to move Cadence's hooves and he picked up his head. Before Cadence could complain Sol climbed back on top of her and pressed his member against her entrance, breaking her concentration on the spell she was using to pleasure him.

Sol barely above a whisper looked at Cadence, “Hope you're ready candy.” She nodded in response and Sol took this as his queue and began to sink his length into her. Cadence threw her head back in bliss, as Sol slowly thrust inch by inch into her hot marehood until he hilted. Cadence was full, she was content, ecstatic even; She had wanted to do this with him sooner but these two months had been busy for him. Plus between all of the work she had to do for becoming a princess, she wasn’t as free as she had liked. But now wasn’t the time for these thoughts, now was the time to give him everything.

“Fuckkk you feel amazing” he groaned, Pausing Sol recast his magic and used it to stroke her wings, and all Cadence could do was moan. He began to withdraw his member as her insides gripped him as if begging him not to. He then began to slowly gyrate his hips and then slowly Sol began to piston his hips. The two now moving their hips in sync, the grunts and moans that escaped both of them only made them more passionate. Stopping his ministrations and pulling his cock from inside her Cadence whined.

“W-why did you s-stop” She panted and looked him in the eyes. Though she didn’t need to ask any further questions she noticed Sol’s gaze had changed. It was needy, and hungry, a nice change of pace she thought.

“Turn.Over.” Sol said in a low husky voice that sent a shiver down her spine as she complied. Cadence turned around and arched her back, and Sol took a second to admire the view he got. Cadence noticing gave her rump a shake which made Sol take a deep breath. His stallionhood twitched in anticipation as he got closer to her.

“Gonna stare or are you going to get over here and rut me?” said Cadence every word dripping with lust, Sol mounted her and thrust back into her.

“F-fuck Candy,” Sol said in a throaty groan, steadying himself before he began to piston himself in her. In and out he went, and Cadence let out a guttural moan as Sol kept going. He leaned over her and nibbled on her ear. This sent cadence over the edge as she had her first orgasm, her legs shaking. Sol felt a rush of liquid down his legs but he did not relent in the slightest.

After what felt like an eternity to Sol grunted, “Candy I-I’m gon-.”Cadence hearing this, moved her flank to meet his hips harder and more frequently.

“In-Inside, or I won’t f-forgive y-you” Cadence said between thrusts. With a final thrust from Sol he bit the back of Cadence’s neck and came. Cadence’s wings flared, and her tongue lolled out of her mouth as she came to her second climax. Getting the feeling Sol wasn’t done she braced herself as best she could, as this was only the beginning of their night.
The two carried on into the night until they collapsed next to each other on the bed as they both hummed in satisfaction.

“Hmm finally got you,” said Cadence panting.

“It was definitely the other way around Candy ass” Sol shot back at her chuckling. “But sure let's say you got me.” Cadence turned over and kissed him gently and then nuzzled into his neck, making Sol smile and wrap her in his wings.
“So Candy wha…”Sol stopped mid question to look down at Cadence who had fallen asleep. Chuckling to himself Sol closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep, he had work to do and a meeting to prepare for but that could wait, maybe, Probably.

Chapter 8: No, being a Prince sounds annoying

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 9: Where did they go?

With the meeting for his school now behind, and a possible coronation somewhere in his future Sol was frustrated immensely. It’s been four months since his meeting with the advisors, ambassadors, and the Princesses and it was getting colder. Having brought up the idea for the Eclipse knights' revival, and recruitment things only got harder for him. Thinking back on it Sol remembered one of the royal advisors accusing him of trying to overthrow the current rulers. Sol had to remind him, he had been turning down the Prince position for months. Yet the accusations kept rolling in until most of the advisors he thought were with him for bettering the country weren’t. Even his ‘friend’ that gifted him the custom silver horse shoes wouldn’t meet his eyes.

This disheartened the young alicorn as he offered to hand over the rights to select the elite from each of the guards. They loved the idea, and moved to make it theirs. The advisors however did hand partial control over the selection process to Sol. The action was more of a,

“If you aren’t going to let us use you and your ideas as we want, then we won’t agree with you.” Well those weren’t the exact words but that was the gist of it that he got. Though it was still a ways out before he had to actually do any of this he was relatively content to finally make some progress to better the world he was in, like his Opa wanted. Though it was anything but enjoyable getting there especially considering the fact that he was an anomaly among ponies.

With advisors, and foreign leaders finally getting word of a new alicorn many sent gifts, and invitations to dinners, dances, and political talks. Among them were the incessant letters from Novo’s daughter, who’s letters she finally read. Her name was Sage, she was roughly around his age. Other letters also came from the leader of Dragon lands offering gold and his daughter. Not to mention the griffons, who even offered their son to him, at least they figured they should stay opened minded. Sol was overwhelmed in so many ways with his advisors turning on him, and the unwanted attention.

All of the chaos that surrounded Sol seemed to have manifested itself. When Sol was in the royal garden he was visited by well he didn’t remember what. All Sol remembered was ‘it’ called itself Discord. Quite the fellow really if you can look past all of the sarcasm, pranks, and horrible fashion sense. Like really polka dot green with banana yellow gross. Discord would pop up every now and then after a meeting. The Dragon thing would go on and on about how much the nobles despised him. But their most recent conversation was rather ominous.

“You know since I like you Sol my boy I’ll tell you something” Discord said floating next to Sol.

“Oh really, then please your Chaos-ship please enlighten me” Sol said sarcastically.

Discord not knowing or not caring continued, “Something big is going to happen, you're involved I don’t know how though. There is just so much chaos around you it’s unnatural.”

“So you actually have a talent, holy shit” Sol mocked. He didn’t dislike discord; it was just that he seemed to be stuck to Sol’s side. Along with his incessant talking Sol felt like pulling his mane out.

“Oh you!” Discord said feigning anger, “I'm serious this time you should watch your back, or you might regret it.”

“What are you on about Dis-”Sol stopped talking. Discord was staring him dead in the eyes; unblinking. Sol got the message and nodded in agreement. This was the only time in three months that Sol had seen Discord so serious. He figured there should be some weight behind it being a god or lord of chaos

“Good now, I’m off to Fluttershy's for tea. You should visit, she was quite fond of you, you have a soft spot for kids, she’d love tha-” Discord was cut off as used his magic to close his mouth.

“Got it. Thanks Mr. LoRd Of ChaoS but I’m missing my lunch. scram” Sol said shooing Discord away.

Undoing the magic Discord pouted, “Hmph fine, I’ll see around. Same time well whenever?” Discord asked and Sol nodded.

“Yup come by whenever and we can talk about my world, I'm sure you’d love to know how contradictory humans are.” Sol said, shaking his head. Discord content with their meeting smiled with his crooked grin and vanished into smoke.

The winter time had begun and hearth's warming was coming up in a few weeks. Sol was pleased to hear that Christmas was a thing here. But with the holidays comes being busy, and that was an understatement with how much he had going on. However that didn’t stop him from going to see Buttercream and little Cinnamon and all of the former stall owners. Since it was the end of harvest season, those that didn’t sell any produce during the winter closed for the holidays. Being the holiday season, Sol found himself in Buttercream's shop more often as he would buy pastries. He would give them out to castle staff and those he knew, partly because he liked being petty towards the advisors.

“Maybe this is how Celestia and Luna have felt dealing with these old fu… ponies” Sol mused to himself, chuckling.

He thought now would be as good a time as any to bring the little colt into the castle. Though that was the second or third thing on his mental checklist. The second third thing was whatever Discord said to him. The second he could give to his pastry chef. The third and most pressing issues… personal issues no that wasn’t it, mare issues. Yeah that summed it up, mare issues, Sol before coming to Equestria in his 22 years on earth hadn’t had a physical relationship or a relationship in general. It felt petty but it weighed heavily on him as he was still a relatively new resident here. The dating norms of the nobles in Equestria , and foreign nations were all over the place.

Sol was now dealing with how he felt about Cadence, and Luna. He already knew how fond he was of Cadence when they met and well ‘stuff’ happened between them. It was Luna that really surprised him, he thought she was just affectionate with most ponies, she was close to and he could not have been more wrong. Luna from what Sol had seen was more aloof with anyone she wasn’t close to. She wasn’t unkind, just detached, when he was with her she felt more well grounded and present. Maybe Sol was overthinking it and she thought they were just friends or the opposite. He did remember Celestia saying that Luna sent out her personal guard to see him to the castle. That could have just been protocol Sol thought. Then remembering he knew the royal protocols since he worked for them. It wasn’t protocol at all and he was trying to not overthink the situation.

“Godsdamn if I can make heads or tails of anypony here,” Sol said, shaking his head. He was currently in a garden he decided to start, along with some of his other ideas, he posed to the advisors a new attraction for the castle to bring in visitors and earn a few bits to pay for a celebration of the castle staff. Sol had to make sure the funds were going to the staff since the advisors were all too ready to accept this idea.

Continuing his garden work, he looked around at the little world he’d made. Sol used magic to keep the sunlight out during the day and allow the moon rays in at night. The night blue magic that enveloped the area had countless flecks of gold, white, light blue and silver stars in all shapes and sizes. It was anything but easy and he had to have Luna help him with it. Sol couldn’t use magic the way most unicorns could and doing things to scale was not his thing. So when he attempted to make the small stars, real mini stars, it ended poorly. Sol burnt the original growhouse to the ground in seconds. Not his proudest moment and that didn’t help his cause trying to give bonuses to the staff.

“Iron and metal are fine but god forbid I try to make mini stars, then it’s a problem. Then they have the nerve to take money for repairs like they cant afford it” Sol sarcastically mumbled to himself

All of the flowers in the garden were nocturnal flowers that he had come across when he first got to Canterlot and Luna showed him around. Tending to his garden he didn’t hear that people had walked through the arch way entrance.

“Lunar lilies, check, next was… Oh hi” Sol said, turning to the ponies that just walked in.

“MR SOL!” The familiar voice called. As soon as Sol recognized it as Cinnamon, he was tackled full force by the colt who had grown since he’d last seen him.

“Sol, I couldn’t stop him, he was on a mission to see you today, I’m so so-”jogging over Buttercream looked worried that Sol was on the ground. Sol picked the colt up in his magic and got up. Taking a deep breath, and then giggling with the colt.

“Hi Cinnamon, I missed you too bud. I was just thinking about you guys. Always a pleasure to see you two” Sol said, his laughter dying down.

“Hey! Hey, is today the day?” Cinnamon said, looking at Sol. His eyes were wide, and pleading, Cinnamon had wanted a tour for months but Sol had been really busy.

“Ya know what fu- ,” Sol coughed and corrected himself, “I mean yes, we can tour today.” The little colt hoof pumping and his smile getting wider. Sol figured now was better than ever, since he needed a distraction.

“YAY! DAD DID YOU HEAR HIM?” Cinnamon said ecstatically.

“Are you sure about this? We don't want to interrupt you when you’ve already done so much for us.” A worried expression made its way onto Buttercream's face.

“Don’t you worry, I’ll take the tyke for the evening, you can come with or,” Sol smirked at Buttercream, “You can take out that nice mare from the flower shop, what was her name again? Amber…”

“Uhm, it's Amber Lilly and yea that's a great idea” Buttercream said sheepishly.

Setting Cinnamon down, Sol walked over to Buttercream, “Go get er’ mate I believe in you. Here take this call it another gift” He said, summoning 2 tickets for a boat ride on the pier.

“I can’t I-” Buttercream looked at Sol’s expression. He knew Sol wasn’t accepting a no. “Your- you’re right Sol, thanks for watching Cinnamon, my Son Dad will be back to get you later ok?” Buttercream said walking over to his son and hugging him.

His giggling dying down, Cinnamon hugged his father back, “Ok daddy be safe!” As their hug ended Buttercream walked out of the garden..

“Alright little buddy let's go see what's going on inside, Whaddya say?” Sol said, looking at the colt. Sol knew he needed to finish checking his flowers but he could always do that later.

“OK Mr. Sol let's go!” Cinnamon said jumping up and down. The two of them made their way out of the garden, and into the courtyard of the castle. To go and give the colt the best goddamn tour he's ever had.

Sol and Cinnamon walked into the castle and began their tour of the castle, and all of the cool spots he’d found. Cinnamon was ecstatic to see all of the castle, and asked Sol question after question.

“So where do you work? Do you see the Princesses often? OH what do you eat?” Cinnamon asked. Sol chuckled and lifted the colt and put him on his back.

“I work in the north tower, I see 3 Princesses multiple times a day, and what I like to eat, hmmm.” Sol pondered the last question for a moment. “I’ve grown fond of the carrot and barley soup here.”

“Barley soup?” Cinnamon asked, confused.

“It's a grain, I’ll have to get you some so you and your dad can try it,” Sol said, taking a turn and walking up a staircase.

“Uhh Mr. Sol where are we-”Cinnamon was cut off..

“Drop the Mr. part, It’s Sol or” Sol paused for a moment, “Older brother yea call me older brother” he said smiling to himself.

Giggling again Cinnamon leaned into Sol’s mane, “Ok bro, where are we going?”

“My office first, and then to see princess Luna, raise the moon,” Sol said. The colt sat up straight upon hearing Luna’s name.

“We’re gonna see the moon rise?!” Cinnamon exclaimed, his voice cracking in the process.

“Yes we are, actually…”Sol got off at the top of the staircase and looked around for a clock, “If I can see the time I can take you.”

Cinnamon upon hearing this looked around frantically for a clock. The little colt so desperately wanted to see his favorite princess. He loved seeing the Lunar princess walk into their store and order bagels. The two of them made their way through the castle when they felt a large rumbling. Sol steadied himself so Cinnamon wouldn’t fall off.

Suddenly there were guards rushing through the castle’s floors. Lunar and Solar guards taking up their arms. Sol was confused about what was going on, until he looked out a window in the hallway. Through the evening sky Sol saw a black cloud floating over the city. It was low hanging and as it swept through the streets Sol swore he saw ponies just disappearing. Sol realized it wasn’t pollution, someone was attacking Canterlot and he was just standing there.

“Cinnamon I don’t wanna scare you bud, but something is happening and I need to leave you for a bit. I will be back ok” Sol said, using his magic and lifting the colt of his back.

“Where are you going?” Cinnamon asked, confused.

“The city, lil buddy you trust me right?” Sol asked. Prompting a nod from the colt. Sol ran down the hallway between the upper towers to Cadence's door. He knocked hurriedly as she answered the door.

“Who is …Oh Sunshine who’s the colt?” Cadence asked, grinning at him.

“Hi Candy, Sorry in a rush this is Cinnamon, Buttercreams kid can you watch him for a bit. Please?” Sol asked, pleading. This made Cadence curious, and she looked around the hallway to see guards everywhere.

“What's going on out there?” asked Cadence with growing concern.

“Candy I don’t know but If you watch lil bro here I’ll come back and let ya know, sounds good?” said Sol hoping she would agree with him.

“Fine, Hi Cinnamon I’m Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but you can call me Cadence” She smiled at him. Cinnamon beamed up at Sol, as if asking for permission. Sol chuckled and nodded at him and went with Cadence.

“I’ll be back lil bro promise,” Sol said, now galloping down the hallway and down a staircase to the entrance Hall where the guard captains were gathered.

“Oi, IronHoof the hells going on mate?” Sol asked the guard captain.

Looking at Sol the captain grimaced, “It was over as soon as it began,” he said.

“The hell do you mean by that, don’t you keep me out of the loop too!” Sol yelled.

“Citizens have been abducted Sol, the market district and docks were wiped out” IronHoof paused for a moment. “We have sent guards to look for the missing but…”

As soon as Sol heard the docks he bolted out of the castle. The area IronHoof just mentioned was where Buttercream was on his date. He prayed that he was wrong and it was the docks further down, he prayed that Cinnamons father was ok.

“Please sweet Jesus be wrong about this, just this once be wrong.” Sol said, panting as he saw the docks come into view. He scanned the area and saw the boat that he gave Buttercream tickets to. Sol used his magic to follow Buttercream's magic signature. He saw the Lunar guards looking around the area, before he was stopped by one of them.

“Areas off limits, no ones allowed in her-”The Lunar guard stopped when she recognized him.

“Hey Fion, Let me look around Please It’s urgent, please let me through” Sol begged. Fion looked at him, and stepped aside. She knew that look in his eyes, one of a dying hope and she knew anything she said wouldn’t stop him.

“Go ahead Sol, you owe me a favor though” She said as he ran past her.

“Yea I sure do, you’ll get time off, I promise” Sol called hurrying to the dock. He began to look around the boat. Then he collapsed and saw the tickets he gave Buttercream sitting on the boat, and Buttercream's magic signature had disappeared into thin air, the trail had gone cold. He felt so guilty, he encouraged his friend to take his tickets to the pier instead of him. He could have given him a restaurant recommendation instead. Why did whoever or whatever it was have to take his friend? Sol hopped off the boat and sat on the pier heartbroken about his friend's disappearance. How would he explain Cinnamon? It took Sol a few hours to collect himself before he could walk again. As he got back to the castle he saw a guard handing out a sheet of paper.

Sol walked up to him and asked, “What’re ya handing out?”

“List of the confirmed missing sir, here” The guard said, handing Sol the list. Scanning through it, it was worse than he thought. The Dawn family that ran the fruit stand, the Snow family that sold vegetables, and so many more names. Sol knew them all, they had all disappeared from Canterlot. Sol holding back tears went into the royal garden and stared at the moon. Sol thought of Discords warning and cursed himself. He should have been more on guard especially since a god told him to be. Yet, he ignored the warning and now ponies were missing. He didn’t get to show Cinnamon the moonrise, or how he did the stars. Though Sol was too sad to even want to put them in the sky.

“Sol why are you out here?” Cadence's voice called from across the garden.

“Big brother what-”Cinnamon stopped talking. He saw tears falling down Sol’s cheeks.

“I'm sorry Cinnamon, I'm so, so Sorry” was all Sol could get out as he cried.

Author's Note

Where did the missing ponies go?! Whomst foal napped them! Shorter chapter here as I re-organize for the next parts of the story.

Chapter 10: Stand up, you have people counting on you

Sol hadn’t left his office in weeks, since the abduction incident. The list of names grew after the first week. He felt responsible for not listening to Discord’s warning about something big coming. Sol felt he was too big to fail, between the stars, constellations and figuring out his magic.

Yet, he could not protect the citizens who believed in him. The ones who trusted him to look after their stands, stores, and foals. Sol loved the citizens of Canterlot and he was going to figure out how to bring them home. Cinnamon was staying in the castle for the time being.
Sol gave his room to the colt, one to take responsibility for his father disappearing and two Cinnamon was so damn adorable.

“Gods, I need to understand this magic shit,” Sol mumbled to himself. He was growing increasingly frustrated with himself. After the incident Sol struggled to focus on his magic. The stars and constellations at night were harder to move around. His other magic suffered greatly. He couldn’t focus, and he found combining magic harder than usual. He knew why too, and yet knowing didn’t make it any easier.

“Mind and body are outta sync. Between this and how I feel about… everything I just ca-” Sol was interrupted by a knock at his door. Before he could move to answer the lock on his door undid. The door flew open and Sol winced hearing the door slam into the bookcase behind it.

“SOL HAMEL!” Multiple voices yelled at him.

“My full name really? I was coming to the door Could you guys wai-” Sol was interrupted by a muffin thrown at him. He caught it in mouth, and looked at the ponies in the doorway with surprise. There was little cinnamon standing sheepishly in the doorway. Behind him was Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Argus.

“Mate, I know you’re upset but you need to ya know… Live a little” Said Argus rubbing his temple.

“All of the information regarding what’s happened. To be brief, a place thought sealed and long lost has returned. The crystal empire has come back, and the dark magic sealing it was released.” Celestia said, using her magic to put a document on the mess in Sol's office.

“Ah, I-I… Thank you. Thank you all” Sol said, bowing his head.

“Don’t give me that shi- uh Stuff. Just buy my next round.” Argus correcting himself. He was in the presence of royalty and he thought he ought to halfway act like it.

“Mhm, we will go over the finer details later.” Celestia said, turning to leave. “Ok I have said my piece, and Argus has plenty to do to help us right?” Winking at the dragon he blushed and nodded.

“Duty calls my friend” Said Argus saluting and leaving with Celestia. The patient Cinnamon finally saw the opportunity. He ran up to Sol and hugged him.

“Big Brother I missed you. It’s not your fault dads gone right now. Please…don’t be sad” Pleaded Cinnamon.

“Ahh don’t look at me like that or I'll feel worse.” Said Sol. He stroked the colt's mane as he hugged him.

“Like wha?” Cinnamon asked. Sol thought of a way to say what he meant carefully or as PG as he could.

“That! Gods you are gonna be trouble with the lad-”Sol caught himself, “I mean mares” Coughing into his free hoof. Watching Cinnamons nose scrunch up hearing that made Luna and Cadence giggle.

“Ew! I’ll stop big brother, I don't want cooties” Said the Colt.

“Alright then, Cinnamon do me a favor would ya? Go after Celestia and ask her to send this to
Twilight” Asked Sol. Levitating a note to Cinnamon, the colt nodded excitedly.

“You got it big bro! We are gonna save dad! I’ll be back!” Cinnamon exclaimed, running out of the room.

Sol looked at Luna and Cadence still in the doorway looking at him. The looks on their faces were flushed red.

“Well? Come on, you both clearly have something you need me to hear? Sol said, motioning them in. He sat at his desk as the two came in.

“Yes sunshine you're right…” Cadence said, taking a seat in an open chair.

“We appreciate the time dear Sol,” Said Luna, not making eye contact. Sol figured this was going to be a tough talk. Or it was going to be something he could resolve. Hopefully he was ready for this mentally.

After a long awkward silence between the 3 of them Sol spoke up first.

“So what is it that you two need from me?” Sol asked. He was concerned because the two of them sat down. Neither had bothered to look up from his desk. They were both fixated on the letter from Sage, Queen Novo’s daughter. Before Sol could ask any further questions Luna spoke up.

“It would be about our neighbors, the concerns of a new Alicorn have finally settled in.” Luna said.

“But I’ve been here damn near a year or longer, why would they care no-” Sol was cut off when he looked at Luna. Her pupils big, and eager to keep speaking. This made Sol’s voice hitch before he could speak further. He nodded and let Luna continue.

“They were under the impression, with your lineage, that you would be a scholar. It seems they now realize that you help create the stars in the night sky. For this they think you are a threat now. They wish to have some confirmation that you are not.” Luna said, looking down again.

Cadence noticed the confused look on his face, “They want you to marry somepony from their kingdom or kingdoms. The Dragon king, Griffon King, and Hippogriff Queen will all be here within the next week.” Cadence said. Sol was shocked to say the least. He really hadn’t come across a problem like this since being here.

“I am just confused, why does it have to be a marriage? I have had no troubles here in Equestria with um …Mares.” Sol paused for a moment. “The school I am opening is all inclusive, is that not enough?” he asked.

“It is power and politics my dear Sol that is why,” Luna said. “Our advisors seek to use all kinds of methods to control us, and their goal this time. Seems to be you” Luna finished.

“As for why you don’t have trouble with mares is because they smell…Us” Cadence said. Motioning to her and Luna.

“It was not intentional at first. Then we grew fond of you. ” Said Luna. It made sense to Sol, and because of the two in front of him. He did not have to be bombarded by the women of this world. Only the ones he cared about and they helped him. Him being close to Cadence and Luna; they saw him as an opportunity.

“I…I appreciate that both of you Candy, Lu-Lu.” Said Sol. His eyes were closed as he smiled and said this to them. He was grateful to have them care for him. This only strengthened how he felt about the two of them.

“Of course our dear Sol,” Said Luna. His statement made the two mares in front of him blush. Seeing Sol down had made them sad they couldn’t comfort him.

“We would not have it or you any other way sunshine” Cadence said.

“But while you two are here… I have been wanting to say this for a while” Sol said. He paused gathering himself. He did not want to mince words or stutter with what he had to say.

“Sunshine what is it?” Cadence asked. She had not seen him look so stone faced in a while. Cadence had seen him serious before, but not like this.

“I… Luna, I like you too and I treasure your company as much as Candy's. I do not want to lose you. So I ask both of you, what are your thoughts on this?” Sol asked. He had wanted to ask Luna this sooner. He neglected to do so due to his own indecisiveness and cowardice. He was scared to ask. His emotions clouded his judgment more than he thought.

“Sunshine, I’m glad you said it first but we were already ‘sharing’ you. Albeit unofficially.” Cadence laughed.

“T-This is true, we were planning to wait until we solved the kidnapping. But…” Luna said trailing off.

“It’s aight, I needed to get that out. And besides, I haven't been very open. So some reassurance that I still very much want you.” Sol said motioning to the two of them. All three began to laugh. It wasn’t so much the situation was funny, they were all just relieved. Relieved they felt the same way, and got their feelings understood.

“So what dost you plan to do about…that?” Luna asked. She levitated the letter on Sol’s desk over to her and examined it..

“Ah well you will have to see about that, I don’t plan on adding anyone else to our little group. And I need to find out why the citizens went missing. I will have to see what Celestia gave me and talk to her about it” Sol said.

He was ready to do something productive and stop being all mopey. He had too, or he wouldn’t be able to face Cinnamon or anypony else who trusted in him. Though it was a lot harder thought than done.

Sol was tired, not physically but mentally. Even with every pony supporting him, he still felt an immense amount of guilt. As Sol walked through the halls towards Celestia’s office he saw a familiar face. He tensed realizing who it was and quickly turned, but it was too late.

“SOL my dear! You hadn’t written back. I was growing worried about you.” Sage, the hippogriff called out. Sol groaned face hoofing, why did it have to be her he thought. It hadn’t even been an hour since he was told she would be here.

“Hello Sage I’m fine, just been very busy. I'm sure you understand.” Said Sol. He slowly turned around to meet the alabaster hippogriff. Her vibrant jade green eyes beamed at him as he met her gaze.

“I understand that…But I missed you so much. So I was wondering if-” Sage began to say. Sol held up his hoof to stop her from continuing.

“I have somewhere I need to be, some ponies of this city are missing. I need them back.” Sol said. Beginning to walk down the hallway he was met by Celestia and Novo at the end of it. He saw the look on Celestia’s face. As she saw him she gave out an exasperated sigh which caught the Queen's attention.

“Celestia dear is it really tha-, Oh my there you are!” Queen Novo said. Looking at Sol and his irritated expression.

“Hello Your highness, A week early I see,” Sol said. He was told a week, a week to mentally prepare and get his shit together. Needless to say he was less than happy with the way the current events were going.

“Well you have Sage to thank for that,” Novo said, “She was Very excited to come see you. So here we are.” She finished. Sage walking up next to Sol, blushed as she looked at him.

“Mom, stop it!” Sage said. “You promised not to say anything”

“Sky will be here later too right?” Sol asked. Sage’s sister came across as wiser and frankly easier to tolerate when it came to negotiation talks. Sage puffed out her cheeks and huffed looking at Sol.

Queen Novo giggled, “Would you prefer my other daughter then?” She asked. Sol merely rolled his eyes and looked at Celestia.

“I assume you have things to do, I’ll give them a walk around for you” Sol said. Praying Celestia took the opportunity to leave. She and Novo were the last 2 beings he needed engaging in “banter” together. As petty as they both were, they were smart enough to push all the right buttons to get at each other.

“You assume correct, I'm sorry my friend but he has insisted” Celestia said. She bowed and hugged Novo. The hug was brief and Celestia then turned to leave. Sol could have sworn he heard the breath she was holding finally leave her lungs. Sol then looked at the two hippogriffs and sighed.

“Aight, I’m all ears what do ya want?” Sol asked. He was getting over being pissed and was beginning to think straight again. He knew Novo wouldn’t show up early for no reason.

“My straight to the point, Now I see why my Sage likes you so much” Novo said. She winked at her daughter who shook her head and blushed.

“Right… I’m still waiting.” Sol said. He was growing impatient with the lack of sleep, and stress.

Giggling, the Queen looked him in the eyes. “I simply wanted my daughter to-” She stopped.

Sol looked at her in her magenta eyes, “Cut the bullshit. You weren’t this easy going in any of our meetings before, don’t use Sage as an excuse to start now.” He said frowning.

Novo sighed, “Your temper has grown young one. But fine I will cut to the chase, Marry my Daughter and we shall aid you.” She said, Sol's starry pupils shrank in anger as he stared at her. He had a feeling she was trying to get a head start on the others that were coming next week. Deciding to bite his tongue before he said something he’d regret, he took a deep breath.

“You will have to wait until next week, at the designated time to discuss this. I will prepare to do this with you as an ally, or not.” Sol said. It took every fiber of his being to not say anything further. He was angry that to every pony he had known for the past year, he was now an object to them.

“Oh and you think you can do that, without the support of the advisors you trusted? They won’t even look you in the eyes.” Novo said to him. She made a good point, but she missed an important detail.

“Who said I was asking Canterlot for their help?” Sol said, smirking. Hopefully little Cinnamon had gotten his note to Celestia’s office. Sol was going to need help from outside the city, and hopefully they got there within the week.

Author's Note

Sometimes you need someone(pony) To pull your head out of your own ****. if ya like the story please leave a like, or comment! I love feedback from you guys! <3

Chapter 11: Reckless, but trust me

After Sol’s run in with Queen Novo and Sage, he had a lot to think about. Mainly how he was going to try and convince the other leaders he wasn’t a threat. The other was to avoid getting engaged to any pony else. He’d get to that step later, but he didn’t want to be engaged to any of his political peers.

“Godsdamn them all with this. I need to get this mission together ASAP” Sol mumbled. He was on his way to have a meeting with Celestia. He needed details about what she knew about the incident. Sol couldn’t prepare well without information, now more than ever. He had no clue when he would get his head straight to use magic. Getting to the meeting room Sol knocked on the door. He waited for a response and when none came he went to knock again.

“Dear just come in, I know it is you” Celestia called. Sol rolled his eyes and entered the room, closing the door behind him.

“You know, you coulda just said something. Way easier” said Sol sarcastically. Celestia, who was sitting down with a cup of tea, didn’t respond. She calmly sipped her tea and used her magic to pull a chair out for him. Sol wasted no time in getting into the chair.

“I will tell you what you need to know-”Celestia began.

“Thank you so much, Celestia because I wanna fi-” Sol blurted out. Celestia held up a hoof to stop him from thanking her.

“On one condition” Celestia said. Her voice was serious and it made Sol’s coat stand on end.

“Uh-huh and that is” Sol asked. He gulped audibly in anticipation of what Celestia had to ask of him.

“You come back, Alive. I cannot have my sister and Cadence hurt” Celestia glared at him. Sol breathed a sigh of relief.

“Coming back alive is in my best interest too so don’t worry” Sol said. This satisfied Celestia and she used her magic to open an envelope.

“The Crystal empire, a place that was here when your grandfather was around. It was sealed due to a tyrant named King Sombra. In an attempt to spite us he took the empire with him when we sealed him.” Celestia said. Sol nodded, soaking up the information she was telling him. Sombra…that was a name he’d read in his Opa’s diary.

“I’ve heard the name before, please continue” Sol persisted.
“Luna and I have checked his seal. It is intact still but…”Celestia paused grimacing.

“But…what?” Sol asked. If Sombra was still sealed away but the Crystal Empire was back, how did that work?

“It seems, a remnant of his magic has persisted. All of his malice, hatred, and anger. It is weak enough to allow the empire out of isolation, but strong enough to keep the ponies enslaved” Celestia continued.

“So basically, this dude's emotions are kidnapping ponies for?” Sol asked. If it was strong to keep ponies enslaved, why would it need more?

“That is a good question.” Celestia said. “To be frank with you, we think it is for their magic, to sustain itself.” she finished.

“So we don’t know why it happened basically but that it did” Sol said. Celestia nodded in agreement to his statement.

“In essence…yes. What I gave you is a more detailed report but I figured a brief history of why would be helpful” said Celestia sipping her tea. Sol leaned on the table and thought about what Celestia had just told him.

“Ok that works” Sol said, snapping from his thoughts, “Heard anything from Twi yet?” he asked. Celestia smiled at the mention of her student.

“Yes I have, she was all too eager to come and help” Celestia said giggling.

“Is the spike coming too? I haven’t seen him in a while” Sol asked. Celestia shrugged and set her tea cup down.

“Wherever my student goes, the little dragon is sure to follow” Celestia mused. Sol smiled at this and got up from his seat.

“Ok I have a lot to prepare for, Between Sage and Novo staying here and the others coming…Ugh” Sol said.

He wanted to just plan to get the citizens back. The nations he thought he was on good terms with couldn’t have picked a worse time. Then again this was probably an excuse to try and catch him when he wasn’t at his best.

“Oh and one other thing my future brother in law,” Celestia tittered. Sol knew that tone of voice anywhere and he wasn’t in the mood to be teased.

“Yes, dearest matriarch?” Sol asked through gritted teeth.

“Rude!” Celestia snapped before composing herself again, “You will do fine, you know how much Canterlot trusts you.” Celestia finished smiling warmly at him. Sol smiled at her warmly and opened the door to leave.

“And I am lucky that you guys do,” Sol said. He left and closed the door behind him. He frowned as he walked back to his office. He felt so guilty for what he was going to do, he didn’t want to betray their trust. However sometimes one must take risks alone for the greater good. Getting to his office he exhaled loudly. Closing the door behind him he went and sat at his desk.

“One step at a time, Foreign nations off my back first, rescue plan later” He mumbled. He spent the rest of that day writing up what he wanted to say. Hopefully it was enough to buy time for him to take action.

Sol was as prepared as he could be for what could only be described as a trial. If found “innocent” he would retain his relative freedom. If “guilty” well, he would be a pawn to others because he was an Alicorn. Not a fan of the latter, he composed himself and entered the meeting hall. There was a long oval shaped table with all the attendants sitting already. Celestia at its head with Cadence and Luna at either side. Next to Luna was Queen Novo and her daughters Sage, and Sky Star. Continuing down from there was Argus and the Dragon Lord Torch. The final guests were among Sol’s least favorite, the griffons. King Gold Feather and his son Prince Crown Claw.

“Aight I’m here let's get the shit show started” Sol announced loudly. Argus choked on his drink in an attempt to not laugh as Torch glared at him. Sol took the open seat between Cadence and Crown Claw. The tan and brown Griffon slightly moved his seat away from Sol, making him roll his eyes.

“Shouldn't you be more respectful when you speak colt?” Torch growled at him. Sol shrugged him off, while ignoring Argus wide eyed stare.

“Now, Now Torch. We came for positive relations, the colt has done enough to deserve our basic etiquette.” Queen Novo said. She looked at Sol and frowned when she saw he was looking at Luna and not her.

“All of you cease this. My son and I did not come to partake in petty disagreements” Golden Feather said dryly. Sol nodded in agreement to his statement. He may not have liked dealing with the griffons for a number of reasons. However he needed to play his cards right to deal with the complaints.

“He is right ya know, now I believe there were some grievances about…another Alicorn disturbing the balance or whatever?” Sol said. His statement was meant to come across half-assed to throw everyone off. Torch was already giving into the provocations; Sol could tell because he could see a couple veins popping up in his eyes.

“Yes, you withheld information about your talents Sol. How can we trust this was done in good faith?” The King Griffon asked. The other 2 leaders nodded.

“Good faith? He has returned life to an otherwise bland night sky! What else could thou want?” Luna blurted out.

“And with all that power he what? Bed you? And seized power for himself within the kingdom?” Torch sneered. Luna’s cheeks turned red, partly from embarrassment and the rest from rage.

“We shall have thee know nothing of the sort has happened!” Luna declared. The Dragon Lord just huffed in disapproval.

“Like King Golden Feather has said, The insults and snide remarks get us nowhere. We are here to discuss balance” Celestia said calmly. Those were the words Sol was waiting to hear.

“Ya heard em’ Twi come on in” Sol said. Using his magic he opened the door and Twilight came in. The Elements of Harmony in toe behind her.

“Ah, Yes we, The current holders of the Elements of Harmony are here!” Twilight said. Here and the other 5 mares followed into the room.

“What is the meaning of this? This is a political discussion, not some daycare” The Griffon King protested. Torch, and Queen Novo nodded in agreement.

“I do have to agree, Celestia, what is the meaning of this?” Novo asked. She turned to Celestia who’s expression had not changed in the slightest. Sol was impressed, then he remembered she was thousands of years old.

“I mean I could explain this to you Queen Novo, but do you remember my warning last we met?” Sol asked. Novo looked confused for a moment and then her eyes widened. She realized that Sol’s last words to her were not empty.

“If anypony could prove I have the best interest of Equestria and beyond in mind. Who else but the Elements?” Sol asked. The grin on his face was enough to make anypony think he was a villain.

“So what are they going to do?” Cadence asked. Sol got up from his seat and turned to the 6 mares that walked in.

“Excellent question my dear Candy, brownie points for you” Sol quipped. She blushed, and upon hearing the pet name Sage pouted.

“I plan to get hit by said Elements of Harmony. And show you something I think might help change your mind.” Sol said.

“You want us to do what?!” Twilight exclaimed. Everyone looked at him like he had lost his mind. Twilight was in shock, she had only been told Sol needed help. She figured bringing her friends was more than enough to back him.

“Darling, I know you want us to help but this is too much,” Rarity said. Everyone besides Celestia nodded in agreement.

“How else do we plan to prove his words? None of you plan to wait to see if he does good or evil. You seek to leash him before he can prove himself” Celestia stated.

Golden Feather, Novo, and Torch all went to speak but couldn’t. They knew what Celestia had said was true, Sol seeing this smiled. If things carried on this way Sol might not have to follow through.

“Then what do you propose we do? We very well cannot let him do as he pleases?” The dragon Lord said after a long silence.

“As I Please you say?” Sol interjected. “ As I pleased would have been abusing the stars' magic. As I pleased, I would have seen our political bridges burned. As I pleased dare I say I would have your head” Sol growled at him. The room went deathly quiet at his statement towards the Dragon Lord.

“Come again Colt?” Torch said getting up from his seat. Sol walked over and stood in front of him. If Argus had hair he would have been pulling it out. The look he gave Sol as he confronted the Dragon lord was one of pure horror.

“I’m being quite generous, sharing my Opa’s magic, and building relations with every pony. Yet you seek to bind me so you do not feel insignificant” Sol spat.

Torch exhaled and flames came from his nostrils as they flared and his wings spread their full length. As both of them tensed, a moment passed and then another. The Dragon Lord took a seat and huffed in irritation.

“Alright, I apologize. Carry on Colt.” he said. The Dragon Lord crossed his arms and the room seemed to cool off.

“Now to you King Golden Feather, my statement to the Dragon Lord stands to you as well. Thoughts?” Sol asked. Golden Feather gave a devilish grin and leaned on the table.

“My, we came to talk reassurance for peace. So my proposal to you, marry my son here or we withdraw our search parties gathering information for your lost citizens” Golden Feather said coyly. The prince sitting next to his father looked at him, his green eyes wide in shock.

“Father forgive me but, WHAT? You would marry me off to some pony because he’s changed? He’s not even attractive!” Crown Claw whined.

Sol’s eye twitched hearing the outburst but he held it in. Crown Claw was the main reason Sol disliked visiting Griffonia. He was rude, condescending, and outright obstinate when it came to trade adjustments but he was reasonable, sometimes.

“I would, for the sake of balance and reassurance, that you would do whatever it takes to protect your ponies” The King mocked. Sol continued to hold in his anger, if he couldn’t do this much he was no better than the Dragon Lord.

“You would threaten withdrawal of help, and you think your son is a good fit for me. I'm hurt really. I’ll pass on marrying into such an unstable country” Sol said coldly. Golden Feathers' facial expression was unimpressed and irritated by Sol’s statement.

“You have a point, So here I am proposing an idea that will bring stability and understanding. Besides it seems the “Starbringer” is a separate entity from the others. You could use a leash.” The King said, sneering at Sol.

Sol ignited his horn and The Griffon King smirked. If using his magic against him, a King where to get out he would have no choice but to bow to him. To his disappointment however Sol merely summoned an open book.

“A book? It’s missing a page and I fail to see how this helps your ca-” The King said before being interrupted.

“I’m working on it, you overgrown Chicken. Jesus.” Sol angrily said. The king Balked at him and snorts of amusement came from across the room. Channeling his magic again into the books pages the page lit up like it did months ago.

“What is that?” The Dragon Lord asked. Sol slid the book over to him and used his magic to highlight a specific section of the page. The Dragon Lord read the highlighted section aloud.

The Starbringer is an artist that will likely be revered but misunderstood, the purpose of the stars is to guide and illuminate, the one who bears the title must be no different. Lead by example, comfort those who need it, offer your wisdom and time and above all else stay true to the beliefs you hold dear. . If the inheritor follows these guidelines the magic will not falter. This magic has been passed on for millennia, silently keeping balance between the entities whether they know or not. Inheriting this magic is the highest privilege and responsibility given to non-royalty. When he was finished reading Sol cleared his throat to get everyone's attention.

“This is the “Leash” you speak of. I deny all positions of royal authority in favor of teaching the masses. Leadership and accountability are my two faults. I fail to recognize when I should step up and when I shouldn't ” Sol admitted.

“This is Lies! Give me that book now!” Golden Feather shouted.

“That book is of Star Swirl's creation. You would call his work lies?” Celestia asked, raising an Eyebrow at him.

“I don’t trust that colt! He Insults me, and belittles my country! I need to see this for myself!” The griffon demanded yelling now.

“As you wish, but you don’t get to read it. Your son does” Sol said as he slid the book to Crown Claw. The griffon Prince read the page and gulped audibly.

“Father as much as I hate to say it. The rude pony is right… The writing matches what we have seen from Star Swirl” Crown Claw said. His face was turned away from Sol as he spoke. The King scowled and got up from his seat.

“Fine!” he yelled. “Do not expect any more aid until we get an apology for your Insolent remarks.” Golden Feather finished dramatically. Leaving and slamming the door behind him as he left.

“Thank gods, If what you said was not true he would have pressed the marriage proposal” The Prince said shivering. Sol nodded in agreement at the griffons remarks.

“Yeah, no kidding, you are not cute enough for me to want to fix a country” Sol quipped. The prince glared daggers at him but said nothing. Queen Novo cleared her throat, getting Sol’s attention.

“I am still here, and I have yet to be convinced otherwise as to why I should let you go?” The queen mused.

“Politically, we are fine. I see no reason other than personal interest for you being here.” Sol said. Novo hummed in agreement to his statement.

“And what makes you say that? Might I ask?” The queen inquired. Sol sighed before returning to his seat next to Cadence.

“1 You brought Sage, somepony I have never worked with, 2 you showed a week early. Dead giveaway. And 3 you told me” Sol said smiling. The queen gave a small laugh and nodded.

“Well you got me, but I am a mother first so you’ll have to forgive me for being firm on this” Novo said.

“I won’t so don’t worry, Twilight hit me” Sol said. Twilight flinched hearing the command.

“Sol… I don’t think this is a good Idea” Twilight said. Her friends murmured in agreement at the refusal.

“Twilight, this won’t end until I prove I am no threat. Hit. ME. NOW.” Sol insisted louder. Twilight looked to Celestia for help but the Princess only smiled and nodded at her.

“A-alright t-then” stammered Twilight. Looking to her friends they all got into a formation and began channeling magic.

“You might wanna move, from what I’ve heard this is not friendly for the surroundings” Sol cheekily remarked. Celestia cast barrier magic around the room to keep everyone safe. Except for Sol, the intended target.

“Are you really sure about not getting hurt?” Twilight asked one more time. Sol shrugged and laughed.

“Not at all, no. This is extremely reckless” Sol laughed. Twilight gawked at him, and her right eye twitched.

“FINE see if I care” The purple unicorn said. The room was filled with a bright white light blinding everyone in the room.

“WHAT THE BUCK WERE YOU THINKING?!” Cadence yelled.

Sol was on his back in front of Twilight. He was laughing so hysterically that even the pink earth pony in the room who was always smiling; was a little unsettled. When Sol calmed down he rolled over and shakily got up and returned to his seat.

“Ah sorry Candy. WOW, that was a rush!” Sol exclaimed. There were a plethora of unimpressed looks on most of the faces in the room. Save for Celestia and Queen Novo.

“You are just as strange as I have heard. Color me convinced you are not a threat” The queen said, sighing.

“But Mother what does this mean for m-” Sage began.

“You will have to take that up with the stallion in front of you. There is only so much I can push for, especially with Star Swirls grand foal” The queen said. Her tone of voice was still calm but Sol sensed she was slightly irritated.

“Sage, the answer is still a no. I’m not interested and I have no plans of leading you on.” Sol said plainly. The female hippogriff looked at him, tears welling in her eyes. She said nothing and ran out of the room.

“You could have had some tact to it Mr. Hamel.” Sky Star said to him.

“You know her better than I do. If I sugar coated it she might have gotten her hopes up. Again…” Sol said trailing off. Sky Star ran after her sister and the Queen made her way to the door.

“Until we meet again, pray you do not need a favor from us soon.” Novo remarked coldly leaving the room.

“Colt, I may not agree with how you did things. But should you need help you will have us.” The Dragon Lord said.

“I'm surprised really, but thank you” Sol said genuinely. Torch looked to Argus and back to Sol.

“You have done good by Argus my envoy, and the little dragon, what was his name…Spike yes. You have done right by our kind, so we shall return the favor” Torch said getting up. He bowed to Celestia, and left the room.

“I will inform father of whatever it was you just did. Should you need aid in your endeavor, address your letters to me. I will help with what I can” The griffon prince said. Sol looked at him confused at what he’d just heard.

“I’m sorry, could you repeat that. I didn’t quite catch that” Sol inquired. Crown Claw’s cheeks turned red and he rushed from his seat.

“Nevermind, Don’t ask for help see if I care” He said, scrambling out of the room. Sol just stood there looking at the door.

“What a strange dude, one second he hates my guts the next he’s a decent being” Sol said still dazed.

“You calling him strange? You are one to talk my friend” Argus said sarcastically.

“I’m surprised I can talk, what about you?” Sol said. This was met with more disapproving stares. Sol sheepishly smiled and then looked straight down at the floor.

“That was probably the dumbest thing I have ever seen anypony do, ever.” Twilight said, her voice cracking.

“But that was actually kind of awesome! You just got up like nothing happened” the Blue Pegasus with a rainbow mane said.

“Right.. I don’t believe I've met a couple of you?” Sol inquired facing Twilight and her friends. He knew Rarity, AJ, Twi, and Fluttershy but the other 2 were new to him.

“Oh I’m Rainbow Dash. Scoots was telling me about you. You gave them a magic box?” Rainbow dash said, unsure of how else to describe it.

“AND I'M PINKIE PIE! I didn’t get to throw you a party when you came to Ponyville so let's throw one NOW!” The Pink earth pony said bouncing up and down.

“Sure but before any of that-” Sol said using his magic. He summoned 2 bottles of wine and 11 glasses for everyone there. Pouring each pony a glass Sol levitated them to all in attendance.

“What is this for, and my it smells so sweet!” Luna asked, smelling the drink.

“Call it a toast to getting focused on getting our citizens back” Sol said, raising his class in his magic. Everyone grabbed a glass and raised them together.

“To friendship, trust, and teamwork,” Twilight said happily. They all nodded in approval, got close and clinked glasses. Sol lifted his glass to drink and paused watching everyone else drink.

“This is amazing…woah and strong,” Cadence said. Then she yawned followed by everyone else.

“What is this called Sol? I do not believe we had this in the royal winery.” Celestia asked as she yawned as well.

“Typical pomegranate, and grape wine. Might have used magic on it though” Sol admitted. Luna looked at him wide eyed as he said this.

“Why would thou do that? And why would we drink this then?” The Lunar princess asked worriedly.

“Oh, So you can’t follow me. Now that this is over, I’m heading out. I’m not going to have you guys get hurt trying to fix my mistake” Sol said, setting his glass down. He walked to the door and looked back at the group struggling to stay awake.

“But, why have us come here then-” Twilight asked. The hurt in her eyes made Sol feel bad but he wasn’t going to stop now.

“Twi It had to be believable. That I wanted help, anyway I’ll see you guys around. Or maybe I won’t” Sol finished saying . He left the room and summoned his travel pack as he walked to the front gate of the Castle. He wouldn’t have long before Celestia or Luna dispelled the magic on the wine. He picked up the pace and left the castle towards the train station. He flew up above the train and landed on top of it as it departed.

“Please trust me, just one last time” Sol muttered to himself. He could have asked for help like he intended to. However he felt compelled to do this alone, why else would he have been given all of this magic if not to protect.

Author's Note

And so our Sol sets off, he could have at least paid for a train ticket. Hope our boys magic is enough!

Chapter 12: What will you give up?

“Well…Shit” Was all Sol could say. What could really, he was on the Crystal mountain range. When the spot he was standing on suddenly caved in and he fell. He was in a Frozen cavern with icicles and stalagmites across the ceiling. The ice was glossy and clear yet it didn’t reflect anything. The light that shone from his horn was all he had to go off of since he was probably pretty far underground.

“How unlucky am I? Maybe I should have brought Twi with me” Sol thought. Then he shook his head. There was a reason he hadn’t brought anypony else and he wasn’t going to second guess himself now. Continuing down the cave’s tunnel, he was surprised to see the cave widened up. Exiting the smaller tunnel Sol found himself in a large icy room, at least the size of the castle's entrance.

“Man this would be cool, If I wasn’t lost!” Sol yelled. As he did so the room around him began to shake. Scolding himself for yelling in an ice cave he ran to get to the other side. The room began to fill with a pale blue light that blinded him. Sol felt as though he was lifted off of the ground for a moment. Then, as suddenly as he felt his hooves hit solid ground, the light faded. He looked around and found himself at the base of what looked to be a temple. It was made of sandstone and protruded skyward. It forked towards the top and split in 2 towers with a floating gem in the middle. The sky was distorted and purple, there were no clouds or even a sun or moon.

“Where the hell am I?” Sol asked aloud, not really expecting an answer. Yet when one came he jumped and yelped.

“Another Alicorn has come to the Fortress of Creation” A voice said behind him. Sol turned around to see a mass of magic and stone. The magic was shaped like man, but encased in rock on the outside.

“The hell are you?” Sol asked, scanning the creature up and down.

“I am the keeper of this fortress, Nothing more and nothing less” The keeper said.

“ Well that's fine and all but how do I get out of here? I have friends I need to save” Sol asked, looking around. The keeper walked past him and started up the stairs.

“You were summoned here to learn as all Alicorn who have gone astray before you have” The keeper said indifferently. It continued up the long stairway to the fortress. Sol, confused, followed after it, jogging beside him.

“What do you mean learn? And astray? Look I just need to be on my way to-” Sol tried to speak further but couldn’t. He felt nauseous, and his legs felt like jelly.

“Too many questions that I do not have answers to.” The keeper said. There was no change in his pace as he walked up the stairs to the fortress. Sol however was struggling to move up the steps.

“Fine damn… Why do I feel so heavy” Sol huffed in frustration. Sol swore that if the thing in front of him had a face it would have smiled.

“Correct question, Magic dense areas at high altitudes can cause nausea. There is a key to moving on. Find it” the keeper said. Keeping its stoic demeanor it walked ahead, leaving Sol to struggle behind. He didn’t know why he was even here.

“And he just walks the fuck off, UGH! Why am I here while every pony is suffering?!” Sol exclaimed, falling. He wasn’t even half way up the stairs to the fortress and he was already pissed.

“Jesus Christ keep, How long have I been here?” Sol whined to the custodian. He had learned a few things since coming to this place. The first was that this was one of a pair of temples. The Temple of Creation, the one he was at. The other was The Temple of Infinity, a couple oceans away. The second thing he’d learned is that the weather fluctuates at random intervals.

“A few moments longer than the last time you asked.” The keeper asked, walking down the stairs from the temple. The third thing Sol had learned from being trapped in this area. Was that the keeper moved around freely in all the wonky conditions. The final thing Sol learned was he could walk or fly down the stairs to the temple with ease, ascending was a whole other case. If he tried to fly up the stairs, the winds would pick up and blow him to the start.

“Find a key? I can’t use magic or fuckin fly, what am I even supposed to-”Sol paused for a moment. He had an idea that was worth a shot. He sat at the base of the stairs until he heard the familiar thuds of the keepers footsteps.

“Hey keep!” Sol said smiling at him, “Lend me a hand up the stairs will ya?” Maybe asking for help was they key, since he hated doing that. The keeper stopped on the first step and turned to look at Sol. Processing the request for a moment before walking up without him.

“Incorrect solution.” Was all the keeper said walking back up to the fortress. Sol’s smile faded and he grunted in frustration.

“Great, and here I thought I was a genius,” Sol sarcastically said to himself. Sol resumed thinking and testing out how to get to the temple. He decided to roam the surrounding area a bit more. He usually didn’t move too far from the stairs due to his fascination with getting up them. Searching the surrounding area, Sol wandered about taking in the scenery. The orange, and yellow trees that he associated with fall were normal here it seemed. There was more dirt than grass, which was odd to him.

“Where does tall bright and rocky stalk off to each day” Sol thought aloud. Walking in the general direction that the keeper did Sol found a trail. Following the trail he was led to a fork in the road. One trail leading left with the sounds of water, the trail on the right with sounds of birds and other wildlife. Debating where he should go, Sol heard a voice he was unfamiliar with in his head.

“Come to the water my child…” The male voice called out. It was low and husky yet inviting. Sol felt compelled to listen to the voice and yet something was off. He couldn’t put a hand or hoof to it but he felt he should ignore the voice.

“I don’t do well with disembodied voices sooo…”Sol trailed off as he turned to walk down the path on the right. The voice laughed, its husky voice booming through his ears making him flinch and stop moving.

“You would ignore ME?!” The voice exclaimed. “I OWN THIS PLACE!” the voice boomed louder than before. The sound felt like it was splitting Sol’s head in 2.

“E-Even if you are…I will do what I want to. I was pulled here against my will anyway” Sol said indignantly. There was a long silence between the two now as the voice contemplated his words.

“Most interesting indeed, Find your own way young one. I will see you, IF you make it up that is” The voice said dissipating from Sol’s head. Sol just stood there trying to figure out what that interaction was about. Deciding to care about the Owner of this place was a problem for future Sol. Venturing down the forest path he found himself in a clearing, surrounded by trees that matched his mane. The purple, pink, reds, and yellow of the setting sun were bright and inviting. The aroma of pine sap, apples, and cherries filled the clearing making him feel at home. It was like he traveled back home to his Opa’s orchard.

“Sheesh, it almost feels like home. If only ma coulda seen this place-”Sol said whistling in amazement. He walked to the center of the clearing and sat down. He wasn’t sure why but he felt compelled to do so. As he sat down he blinked rapidly a few times, and then…

“S-Sol?!” A voice called from behind him. Sol looked around him to see he was home, in the very park he disappeared. Turning around he saw a familiar face.

“M-Ma?” Sol stammered out. “Is that you? Like really?” The woman approached him as he sat in the grass. His hands were back, his hair was in face and not multi-colored.

“My Son, Where have you been? I've been so worried about you!” His mother exclaimed, kneeling down and holding him. Sol felt the weight of his emotions come down on him, hard. He grabbed his mother, returning her embrace.

“I don’t even know where to begin, It’s been a journey for sure” Sol said, tears falling down his cheeks. He laughed as he held his mother, the scent of apples and bread filling his nose. She had to have left her job at the bakery not too long ago.

“Your father and I have been worried sick about you! You’ve been gone for 3 years!” She said to him, the pain and longing apparent in her voice.

“3 years huh? It certainly didn’t feel like that long” Sol replied, releasing his mother from the hug. He wiped his eyes and looked down at his hands flexing them. The smell of the bakery reminded him of Butter Cream, it made him sad.

“Let's go home, I’ll make your favorite and-” His mother said getting up. She started walking but stopped when she noticed Sol hadn’t moved.

“I-I can’t go yet. Butter Cream, Cinnamon, Candy, and Luna. They need me…”Sol said quietly.

“What do you mean you can’t go yet? You have finally come home after 3 years and you say you can’t?” His mother asked, anger rising in her voice.

“There are people who need me mom, You know me better than anyone I have to do this…”Sol persisted not moving.

“We need you, Your father needs you. I need you. I need my son back” She said desperation replacing her anger. Sol shook his head, and against his better judgment and feelings, he stayed put.

“You know I love you more than anything, but I put people in harm's way. I need to see them safe. I feel better knowing you and dad are ok. So please wait a little while longer.” Sol asked, smiling at his mother. He took in her features as he did so. Her short black hair, honey gold eyes, caramel brown skin. She scrunched up her nose at his request and frowned at him.

“You would give up coming home?” She asked him. Sol shrugged his shoulders and held out his left hand. A small whirlwind of magic flowed from it as he did so.

“I was raised to do the right thing, I would give up my former home, magic, and privileges if need be. I will be my own man.” Sol said, closing his hand. After a brief silence his mother laughed. It was a tender, yet hysterical laugh. Then a voice that wasn’t hers came from her mouth. The deep husky voice from before erupted forth.

“You are better than the previous Alicorn's young one, I’ll give you that much. Interesting past, and upbringing. I could almost cry~” The voice rang in Sol’s ears mocking him, but he held the gaze of the figure pretending to be his mother. The previous honey golden eyes of his mother were now the same pale blue color that transported him to the temple.

“Jesus, and here I thought I could come back later to go home. Who are you anyway?” Sol asked, annoyed. The voice just laughed at him as the surroundings faded away. Bringing him back to the clearing he sat in the middle of. His hands slowly morphing back into hooves. The hair that fell in his face returned to its multi-colored mop once again.

“I am Eses, and you said you would give up your right to go home, your magic, and more correct?” The voice asked amused.

“I would yes but what does that have to do with-” Sol was cut off from his sentence as he felt a familiar pain. The stinging and burning on his sides and back from when he became an Alicorn. He fell over and screamed in pain and passed out as he felt the bones in his back twist and reform.

“Then enjoy,~!” Eses said to him in Sol's last moments of consciousness. Upon waking up, Sol sat up and rubbed his eyes and yawned. He felt sore all over and went to stretch himself out. His legs first, neck, wings and wait.

“The hell, I could have-” Sol went wide eyed when he turned to look at his back. There were fresh scars in place of the joints where his wings used to be. Sol shook his head and ran back to the stairs to the temple. Seeing the keeper walking down the stairs Sol ran past him up them. As he ran up the stairs, he made it further and further up until…

“I had to lose my wings to get here? What was the point I already couldn’t fly?!” Sol screamed in confusion. He was angry, and confused that he was shown his mother and his home. He was filled with familiar scents and images only for them to be ripped away from him.

“Loss. Loss was the lesson to be learned. You could still fly just not to the top .You hadn’t learned Loss.” The keeper said standing behind him.

“LOSS? What don’t I know of loss? My original home, gone. My best friends are gone! My parents? Oh THEY'RE FUCKIN GONE! A whole world or dimension away!” Sol roared with his whole being. If the keeper wasn’t made of stone and magic it’s eardrums very well could have blown.

“Hence why you could take the steps in the first place. Many spend longer than 50 to 100 years here. You have only spent 12” The keeper said turning around.

“I’ve been here for how long?!” Sol asked, his face going pale. The keeper didn’t turn around or answer him and continued back down the stairs. Sol couldn’t believe it, he had been stuck trying to move on from this place for 12 years. How was that even possible, and how did it only feel like a few days. A week a max really but 12 years had gone by.

“Damn you Eses. I need to get every pony back and you're wasting my time here” Sol said as he trudged into The Temple of Creation. His heart sank, and he dragged his heavy hooves, as he continued into the unknown.

Author's Note

And his wings are gone!? Eh what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger...Right? Right?! Wonder what the situation on the outside this area is?

Sorry for shorter chapters, Finals and deadlines are kickin my butt. I'm trying to stay consistent.
Thank you for reading I hope you're enjoying Sol's journey, however unfortunate it is rn... :raritydespair:

ON A SIDE NOTE THANK YOU FOR 100 LIKES! I'm stoked and happy that who ever is reading this story follows it and likes it!

Chapter 13: The Trials of Eses Begin

“It’s trial after trial, after fuckin trial. Just come out already!” Sol swore angrily into the abyss. Eses told him they would talk when he completed the trials and Sol agreed. This temple was weird for a number of reasons. 1 was that when he entered a room he was teleported somewhere. 2 was that he had to find his way out of the area via teleporters. The final thing was that there were ponies everywhere. Where he was currently was all ocean except for the rock that he fell on when he got there. Having just recently lost his wings he couldn’t survey the area. All he could see was dark purple skies, and pitch black water.

“Does he expect me to swim in the dark?” Sol thought to himself. He was uncomfortable and wet from the salty spray hitting him in the face. The “land” he fell on was about as wide as his office wall to wall. It was high enough to where the water could splash against the rock and spray him. Occasionally the ocean would spill onto the rock which meant it was only going to take one bad storm to send him swimming.

“Lovely, glad I’m doing this alone…”Sol whined and then trailed off. Was he mistaken? A light was coming towards him. At this point he didn’t care what it was, he just wanted to get off the rock. Jumping up he waved and ignited his horn, doing his best to use his magic. It was faint, but he wasn’t going to give up. His horn began to twinkle weakly like a dying star, and then it stopped. No matter how much he tried to use his magic again, he couldn’t do it.

“Please tell me, It sees me” Sol pleaded now jumping up and down hoping the light approached him. As if to answer his prayers, the light got closer and closer to him. It looked to be a crab fishing boat from earth. It was about half the length and the metal was slightly rusted. He watched as the boat approached him, a slight sense of relief flooding over him. The clanking of chains and dull thud of the anchor dropping was slightly unnerving.

“Man, I might have a new phobia of the ocean after this” Sol mused. Jogging over to the edge of the rock to meet the boat he was met with a smile.

“Oh my Stars, another pony way out here?” An old gravely voice asked him. Meeting the old Earth pony’s gaze Sol smiled back.

“Yea, you’re tellin me. Mind if I join ya?” Sol asked. The stallion gave a belly laugh and nodded.

“ I know she ain’t much but Welcome aboard the S.S Eclipse” The sailor said, grabbing a board for Sol to walk on and sliding it over.

“Thank ya kindly Sir, It’s been a long well few years to say the least” Sol says exhaling. The sailor looked at Sol as he jumped aboard.

“Names Mariner Jack, friends call me Jack. You are?” The sailor asked him, raising an eyebrow. Mariner looked over Sol’s disheveled mane, cuts on his sides, and the scars where wings should be.

“I’m Sol Hamel, Sol’s fine by me though” He said, forcing a smile. “Need help with anything?”

“No, go and shower down below. Room on the left with a sign can't miss it. Come back up when you’re done.” Jack said, turning to pull up the anchor. Sol ignited his horn and used his magic to pull up the anchor for Jack. He was actually pleasantly surprised his magic responded to him without failing.

“Let me know if you need anything else” Sol said walking off. Jack just smiled and went about his duties to get back out to sea. Wondering how the hell this “Sol” was out in the middle of the ocean. No pony had been out this far before and Jack was certain he was the first to find new land. Yet here was this scarred, cream colored unicorn wandering the rock and Jack was fascinated beyond measure.

“But first, we set back out. To flotsam we go” Jack said, shaking his head to snap him from his thoughts. He could ask Sol in time what was going on, they had quite the journey back.

“Oi Lad, Starboard sails needs retying. Get on that or the sails will be torn to shreds!” Jack yelled from the helm of the ship. Sol was more confused now than when he ended up in Equestria.

“Cap, I’ve never sailed a day in my life what the hell is sta-”Sol yelled back in confusion. Jack sighed and face hoofed before composing himself. They were in the middle of a storm and getting upset at a “Survivor” wasn’t going to help them live.

“For the love of…The right side sails. NOW HURRY!!” Jack bellowed as he lurched up, and then crashed back down. Dark seawater began to cover the deck as Sol ran to climb the loose rigging to tie the sails.

“If I ever get out of here I swear to all that's holy I’m gonna-” Sol thought angrily. A small shadow approached Sol and before he could react…

THWACK!!!

A metal pail smacked Sol in the side causing him to fall and get his left leg tangled in the ropes. He hung suspended in the air by his caught leg gasping for air desperately trying to free himself.

“BOY! How is the sail goin-”Jack yelled over the crashing waves, then he paused and eyes wide in astonishment. Cursing under his breath Jack just continued to do his best and hoped that Sol would be alright.

“ESES YOU SON OF A-” Sol screamed as another wave of water washed over him and the boat drowned out his attempt to curse. After a few seconds the water receded and Sol took a gasp of fresh air. Realizing that screaming wasn’t getting him free nor was the pointless struggling he tried to calm his mind and think of what to do.

“For Calypso’s sake USE YUR’ MAGIC LAD” Jack yelled. Sol snapped his attention to the helm where he saw Jack fighting to stay standing. Ignited his horn and tried to tie sails to the ship down. Sol smiled as his horn lit and he saw the rope on the deck slowly lifting towards him.

“Yes, yes come on, just go and keep the sail in place” Said Sol, using all of his concentration to maintain the spell. As the rope began to wrap around the sail Sol felt the world around him spinning.

“Hey! HEY! FOCUS I NEED THOSE SAI-” Sol heard Jack scream at him as the world around him went dark. All he felt was the water in his coat, and a ringing in his ears that made him feel as if his head was going to split. Slowly losing consciousness, the waves, rigging, and dark sky above him began to fade from his vision.

“What the he-” was all Sol managed to get out before everything went pitch black.

Author's Note

Hard times make strong stallions-> Strong stallions make good times. Hopefully we can get back to good times and not be stranded in open ocean...

Yes I know a short chapter, but its a chapter! I'm getting my mojo back and I'll ease back into writing again! Works been rough so bear with me! I love all of you and appreciate you (yes even the neigh Sayers) . Happy new years to all of you and I hope to continue this story with you all here to read it! :twilightsmile:

Chapter 14: Struggling against Fate

“SOL! My boy get up, will ya? Sweet Calypso, did he dry out?” a gruff voice called out. Sol groaned as he regained consciousness slowly. His eyes fluttered open as sunlight blinded him and the saltwater smell of the ocean filled his nostrils.

“The hell happened? The ship i-” Sol shot up his breath quickening as he looked around confused. The sun was out, the ship was still in one piece and Mariner Jack the captain was looking down at him laughing.

“You don’t remember what happened? You changed the weather, the time of day, the whole thing!” Jack exclaimed and sighed contently.

“I did…” Sol paused looking up at the clear sky, “ Uhh all of this?” he asked, his voice hoarse and dry. Sol coughed and sat down, closing his eyes again. He felt like shit; his head pounded, his throat felt like he gargled rocks in his sleep, and he felt like something was wrong.

“Well, I can only make the assumption. You took a log to the noggin and ya’ glowed like the sun and poof. No more storms, and calm waves for the past few days and…” Jack continued but Sol had zoned off. Sol was still trying to process what was going on around him.

“A few days would explain the dry throat and headache but why am I still on the deck?” Sol asked, opening one eye and slowly turning towards the sailor. Jack turned away whistling, and began to walk back towards the helm of the ship.

“Well, err um…” The sailor sputtered trying to think of a way to explain why he left the unicorn be. Sol just shook his head and winced. Moving his head around with this massive headache wasn’t the smartest thing.

“Just… whatever I wanna sleep my head is killin’ me” Sol said. Shakily getting to his hooves he went below deck. Jack exhaled a deep breath he didn’t realize he had been holding. He didn’t know what to tell Sol.

“Boys in for a treat, I didn’t have the heart to tell em’ ” Jack thought, shaking his head as he directed the ship towards Flotsam, the drifting city that was visible on the horizon. As the ship neared the dock Jack heard a scream and closed his eyes grimacing. Smoothing his grey beard, he made his way below deck to check on Sol.

“The HELL IS THIS?!” Sol screamed, distraught at what he was looking at. Jack standing in the doorway of the room, grimaced.

“Lad I know it looks bad but I’m sure the town's Unicorn might be able to help ya's out. Lets land and-” Jack ducked as Sol flung a book at him. Looking at the stallion's expression made Jack's heart sink. He had met countless others and seen them go through the ringer, but this was different. Seeing Sol’s face contorted with pain, and loss made him want to hug him and comfort him. Yet all Jack could do was stand there, opening and closing his mouth failing to find his words.

“You maybe could have I don’t know TOLD ME MY HORNS BROKEN?!” Sol screamed motioning to his horn. His hoarse voice cracking, Sol coughed and began to sob. Equestrian magic wasn’t native to him and yet the lack of it after 2 years in Equestria made him feel an overwhelming sense of loss. It was like losing an arm, but it felt worse. He felt disconnected in a way he couldn’t express.

The realization that he had to learn to write, grab things, and function without his crutch. Another wave of emotions flowed over Sol as his mind spiraled. The two stood in silence for a few minutes just looking at each other. Neither moved from their spots until Jack finally spoke.

“Lad I… Didn’t errr I mean that-” Jack sighed dejectedly, his voice hitching in his throat. The sailors' gravely voice came out barely above a whisper. Sol tried to compose himself and sat on the floor, tears streaking down his face.

“Gods this blows. Lets just…Lets just land and go from there yea?” Sol said between sniffs. The sailor nodded and backed out of the room and back into the hallway. Gently closing the door Jack turned and began to walk back up the stairs and then he paused. Leaning onto the railing he exhaled deeply gathering himself then continued. He needed to get his head right if he was going to be of any help to the colt. Shaking his head he resumed his position at the helm and began to steer. They had a good couple more days before landing so hopefully there was some good news, and soon.

After being delayed at port Sol and Jack finally got to set foot in the city of Flotsam, The only known settlement wherever they were. At least that's what Sol was told when he asked around some of the tables at the diner they landed at.

“Boy what can I get ya? Those at sea meals don’t do food justice.” Jack asked, sitting down across from Sol. The two occupied a rounded table in the corner of the diner. The afternoon sun filtered through the windows letting Sol take in his surroundings. The diner was akin to an old Norse bar. The pale wooden planks that lined the whole place, the runes on decorations behind the bar and on the walls. The smell of mead, grill smoke, and humidity hung in the air but not in a way that made Sol uncomfortable.

“Jack this place is…” Sol turned to Jack who was waving over a waitress.

“Bright Shine, The usual but double it. I’ve got a guest to meet the mayor!” Jack said proudly. Prompting the young waitress to trot over to their table.

“Jacky! Welcome back, what guest would you be referring to this time that we haven’t met y-” Bright Shine stopped talking when her eyes fell on Sol.

“Pleasure.” Sol said frankly, looking away from her. The earth pony had a pale orange coat and a bright cyan mane. However her bubbly voice was annoying him to say the least.

“Where’d you pick up this one?” Bright Shine asked getting closer to Sol, who shifted away. Either she didn’t care or didn’t notice his unease; continued to look him over. Before Sol could ask her to move Jack cleared his throat getting her attention.

“Shine, you’re too close to the poor lad. He’s…gone through quite a lot to say the least.” Jack chimed in. The waitress shook her head and backed up after hearing Jack speak.

“Ah, Sorry he did say you were a guest. Make yourself at home, his meal is on me as a sorry” Bright Shine said smiling. She strolled off and Sol exhaled and continued to look around. The two sat in silence while Sol looked around with fascination. He wondered how all of this was possible in the middle of a large body of water and how old this place was. Sol was snapped from his thoughts however when Jack cleared his throat and looked at Sol.

“Need something Jack?” Sol inquired, tilting his head in confusion. The sailor held Sol’s gaze for a moment before speaking.

“I refrained from asking until I could give ya decent food and drink. But what's yer story? What’s the deal with you and all this magic mumbo jumbo eh?” Jack asked, trying to keep his voice down. Confused, Sol took a second to process the question.

“Magic mumbo jumbo?” asked Sol before Jack shushed him and leaned over to him.

“Look it ain’t too common or welcome ‘round here and the only reason you aren’t attracting attention is because your horns stubbed” Jack said barely above whisper. Sol sighed, annoyed at the mention of his broken horn but he acknowledged Jack and nodded at him.

“So leaving out all of the uhh ‘fluff’ you could call it. It began when-” Sol said, trying to think of a way to tell his story without mentioning magic too loudly. Before he could begin, Bright Shine came back with Jack's usual.

“So I have 2 large barley soups and 4 tall ales for you guys! Let me know if you need anything else!” Bright Shine said cheerily before setting down their meal and walking off to help some pony else. Sol and Jack made eye contact and grinned widely.

“Let's get a few bites in before I tell ya. How’s that Jack?” Sol said not waiting for a response. Jack let out a short laugh but said nothing, opting to start his meal and wait to hear what the boy had been through thus far.

After a few hours Sol had gotten through a good portion of his time in Equestria. From when he ended up in the castle ruins, to explaining his new life, and the events that ended up with him here.

“Boy, that is quite the loaded story. I feel like you’re leaving some important details out, but ah’ll let it be.” Jack said, taking a swig of his now fourth drink of the evening.

“I am, but I doubt you want to hear about my love life, Jacky.” Sol mocked, causing Jack to choke on his ale.

“Don’t. Call. Me. Jacky, Boy.” Jack said, trying his hardest to hold a straight face.

“Ok, Ok don’t get your tail in a twist. I’m just saying though…” Sol paused looking at the sailor. His facial expression had softened and he motioned for Sol to continue in between coughs.

“Jacky your next round” Bright Shine said, popping up seemingly out of nowhere.

“I didn’t order another…” Jack said looking around, noticing a few of the patrons were turned towards their table listening.

“Consider it on us, we missed the first half of your story but this is getting good boy” A stallion said, eliciting grunts and raised glasses in approval. Sol closed his eyes and shook his head laughing to himself.

“I’m not going into great detail,” Sol said. Grunts of disapproval were heard and another ale was brought to the table.

“Good enough for now?” Another patron asked. Sol nodded at him and began. Sol talked about Cadence, their meeting, their dates, and the more vanilla stories of their after dates. The things he liked no… the things he loved about her. He talked about Luna and their interactions, dates, and how he regretted not spending more time with her outside of work.

“I guess I took for granted the time we had. I assumed being in the same space for work was the same as personal time and, haha, boy was I wrong.” Sol said, mocking himself. Jack put a hoof on his shoulder in consolation.

“Hindsight 20/20 lad, it’s alright-” Jack began to say but Sol cut him off.

Sol smiled and sighed deeply, “Now that it’s all out there I feel a little bit better. Besides, moping wont get me home and there has to be a reason I'm here.”

“Well for your sake we hope so. Most of those we find are less…put together” A tall brown stallion says, putting emphasis on the end of his sentence.

“Ah yea well…,” Sol paused, reminiscing on the parts of his story he’d skipped over. The countless walking, the lack of family and loved ones and more.

“We’re gonna head out now. Bright add it to the tab ah feel i’m good for it” Jack said grinning. Bright Shine shook her head and walked away.

“Yea yea sure ya are Jacky” She said, sauntering off. The group around Sol and Jack started to thin as the patrons either went back to their meals or went about their days. Sol followed behind Jack as they left the diner. Sol looked at the late afternoon sky, as the sunset gave way to a multitude of colors. The strawberry colored sky put him at ease, and looking up made his heart ache. The colors reminded him of Cadence and the night sky blending in reminded him of Luna.

“I’ll get home, even if I have to fight god himself” Sol said under breath. Jack led Sol back to his house. Sol looked at the cabin and saw smoke coming from the chimney.

“Honey, it’s me!” Jack called out as he opened the door.

“You’re back early?!” A voice called from the other room. A shadow threw itself at Jack which startled Sol.

“What the-” Sol said backing up before looking at Jack and the shadow. It was a small black cat that had thrown itself at Jack as he continued to walk into the house.
“Boy ya comin?” Jack asked, turning to Sol. Shaking his head Sol trotted behind Jack into their living room.

“Hun…Who’s that?” The pale white Pegasus with a mane asked.

“This here's the reason I’m back early. Hun this is Sol. Sol this is my wife Rosalina. He’s had it rough, babe can we give him our spare room?” Jack asked looking at his wife who was looking Sol over. After thinking it over for a little bit she nodded in agreement.

“Thanks umm do you mind if I turn in now. It's been a while since I’ve slept in a bed.” Sol asked yawning.

“Shower first. I’ll change the sheets and it will be the room at the end of the hall.” Rosalina said, getting up. Sol followed her and she led him to the bathroom.

“Thank you” Sol said, bowing his head and hopping into the shower. Letting the water wash over him Sol didn’t stay in the water for too long. After a couple minutes he hopped out and dried off with a tower from under the sink. Opening the door and making his way to the guestroom he found Rosalina finishing up. After putting pillowcases on pillows and a quilt over the bed she left without a word and closed the door behind her.

“Thanks again…” Sol said trailing off. Sighing he flopped onto the bed grateful for the bed. The floral scent in the sheets was soothing. Yawning Sol’s eyes fluttered closed as he drifted off into nothingness. Then he was in a field of flowers where he saw an older green mare sitting not too far from him.

“Finally, I get to speak with you young one. Come, I have much to tell you with little time.” The mare said, beckoning Sol closer.

“Eses again with the dream walkin. I’m too tired for this shi-” Sol stopped when he was pulled closer to the green mare.

“I am Gaia, The true owner of the Temple you were brought to. You aren’t supposed to be here and that is why we must speak. Unless you would rather continue to lose yourself?” Gaia mused tilting her head. Sol huffed and sat down in front of her.

“I’m all ears, green lady,” Sol said bluntly. Making Gaia laugh.

“Finally, See about getting you home” Said Gaia standing up and poking the nub on Sol's forehead.

Author's Note

Lets get our boy back to his mare friends eh? Momma Gaia gon make things right.
(If you see any errors lemme know. I do my best to edit but I'm only human! <3)

Chapter 15: Actions do in fact have consequences

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Chapter 16: The Will of Deities

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