Twilight's point of view:
"I would say that our attire is most likely not suited for a café, so how about the Crimson Orchid? It's somewhat of a formal establishment. And it is also very fitting of our ties, wouldn't you agree Astral?" I suggested smiling, glancing at both of our black ties.
"Oh, my, Princess, you taking me to a restaurant and complimenting my tie, I'm flattered." Astral said, placing her hoof against her heart and looking up into the ever fading sunlight and the color slowly shifting into pink and orange along with a monopoly of other variations of said colors.
"Well, I mean, I guess I could abandon you..." I said, smirking before full-blown laughing at her reaction. She had whipped her head to look at me before using one of her front hooves to wipe an imaginary tear before finally giving me a large frown and staring at me like the world was ending. Her lips curled into a smirk before she stood proudly and confidently a smug look plastered well more like engraved on her face.
" You look so confident, but you're pretty short." I stated smugly as I turned and walked down the cobbled street, leaving her huffing and stuttering for a response as she trotted after me.
"H-Hey, I-I'm not that short, right?" Astral said, glancing at me pleadingly. My smirk deepening.
" I suppose you aren't that short since you're what 12?" I replied, noticing how her eyes were subtly charging color.
" I am not twelve, and I am only maybe three or four inches shorter." Astral reprimanded.
At this point, we were nearing the restaurant, so I quickened a bit before responding, "No more like six or seven. And oh, look, here's the restaurant!" I could tell she was fuming but chose to hide it well aside from her eyes still being slightly off color. Reaching a booth outside of the front, we were quickly able to reserve a seat with the grey stallion, his bowtie matching the cream color of his slicked mane. He practically bowed the entire time. Within the span of five minutes, we were escorted by a deep blue colored mare with a pale yellow mane after she bowed. Of course, I really don't think I am used to that happening.
As soon as we entered the main building, whispers and murmurs traveled throughout the many tables. We were led to a table outside in the back corner. The string of magic powered lights covering the fence all around the patio area.
" I've never been here before, so do you have any recommendations?" Astral asked, glancing down at the menu, looking both overwhelmed and skeptical.
"Well, I usually get hay pasta with this lovely apple garnish. It also usually comes with a side, I would definitely recommend getting a salad as the side." I stated, hoping it would put her at ease. It seemed to work.
"I think that sounds delicious, I get a bit of anxiety having to make decisions, especially since this menu is what nine or ten pages long. If it weren't for you, I would have most likely ordered off of the filly's and colors menu!" Astral said, breathing out a sigh of relief before glancing down at the drinks portion of the menu.
"So how did you start working at the -um office?" I asked, trying to end the awkward silence.
She looked up from her menu before smiling. " Well, I was and still am a pretty good game developer and hacker, plus I am quite smart, at least that is what the school told my mother. What about you?"
"Well, I've known Luna for a while, and when I had seen her after the -uh Wedding incident, she offered me a job. It also ha really prepared me in militarized magic and hoof to hoof combat. I guess I really enjoy getting a break from being 'Princess' Twilight or 'Celestia's Prize Pupil' or even just one of 'Equestria's heroes' it let's me be Twilight and it also allows me to have a real job plus I am pretty good at it. Why do you enjoy working there?" My slight frown changing into a genuine smile at the end.
"I suppose I enjoy it because it allows me to do what I am good at, but also allows me to explore more, plus I get to be like a special secret agent. I.T support rules!" She said, beaming with pride. I chuckled.
Soon, a server stopped by our table taking our orders after apologizing profusely for being so late reaching our table.
"So, as you know, I am supposed to assist you in stopping said threat, getting up to date on the office happenings, helping you prepare for your new role, along with many other things." She stated seriously, I simply nodded before she continued " I would so like to be friends with you, not for my own personal gain might J add, what we've done today has been extremely fun." I couldn't help but smile.
"I would love to be friends with you, plus you wanted to hang out with Twilight, not a princess or even a hero, just Twilight. Even my friends don't want to hang out with that Twilight." My voice growing small and sad at the end. I didn't have a long time to wallow because our food was brought to our table. We ate in a comfortable silence as I stared down at my plate. However, the second I looked up, Astral was practically beaming her eyes the size of the plates both our meals were on. I used a forehoof to cover myself from chuckling as I swallowed my food.
At my reaction, she gazed around at the patio, the lights growing brighter, bathing the wooden fence in white with a tinge of blue light. Orchids lined a small stone wall each red, but none were the same shade or size. The pots were all grey, practically blending in with the wall. The piano player plays a slow tune to match the dimming skies, each note serenading with the chatter of voices.
"It really is quite beautiful, isn't it," I say, my eyes seem to glow just a tinge brighter as my smile grows, radiating happiness.
"... Yeah, it truly is." A smile now spreading across Astral's muzzle soon twisting to be as bright as mine.
"Would you want to get dessert? We don't have to." I ask, looking at our two pretty much empty plates.
"I am pretty full, plus it is getting late." She said. I nodded and stood up. She teleported a wallet and began digging through it.
"No, no, let me pay. After all, you're going to take on double the work to help me. The least I could do was treat you to a meal." I state firmly. I teleport a large bag of bits onto the table and then pull out ten with my magic, teleporting the rest back.
"Okay, but I'll get the tip."She says, placing three bits farther away. She heads towards the front door, but I make my way to the register. Rejoining her outside once the payment was settled.
"So it is kind of late, I'll walk you to the castle, okay? Plus, it is on my way home." Astral says as she starts heading in the direction of the castle as the sun begins to meet the water line.
"Okay, to be entirely honest, I really don't want to go to the castle." I state as a sigh escapes. She glances at me and gives a small smile.
" Yeah, going home can be pretty interesting. Luckily, I live alone aside from my pet." She says.
" My friends, family, and other princesses aside from Lune are suspicious, but to be quite frank, it was Luna who planted those suspicions." I state blatantly.
"Yeah, for all of her talk about not telling anyone she sure likes to make it obvious. I think she does it to get drama or something." Astral whispered, glancing around as if waiting for Luna to appear. I giggled slightly, staring at her, causing her to once again suddenly stop before bringing a forehoof to wipe away a tear. " You find me funny, Madame Sparkle?" She questioned, raising an eyebrow at me.
" I suppose sometimes I do." A smile creeping onto my muzzle.
We were soon standing in front of the wide gates leading into the castle. "I supposed this is where we part ways." She says, waving goodbye as she turns around and continues down the now somewhat busy street. I stand there for a few minutes before heading through the gates and into the main building of the castle. Guards and maids bow to me as I take that familiar trek to my quarters.
? Point of view
Watching Twilight stand there with that strange pony fills me with confusion. I get that Twilight was raised in Canterlot, but the mare was dressed exactly like her, and why was Twilight gone for so long?
That's it what is going on?
Author's Note
Alright the next chapter. The drama is getting started who was watching Twilight? Will Astral and Twilight make it to the C.C.I.U in time? How will everyone find out? So many questions.
Author's Note
This chapter contains violence!
This chapter took forever, please do provide feedback the next chapter will explain everything about this Alternate Universe.
If you have questions feel free to ask them along with any concerns or what you think will happen.
5 am working
Twilight's point of view
I quickly got ready it was about 4:30ish. I rushed about in my room, and I eventually calmed down and finished getting ready. I started making my way to the C.C.I.O at about 4:40 a.m., getting nervous and flying a good portion of the way, making it just shy of 4:50. As I land, I heave and pant before straightening up and heading toward the doors.
"Hey, Twilight," Astral says, holding a mug in her blueish greenish magic. "Coffee that'swhat I forgot" I think to myself inwardly cringing at not having any this early in the morning.
"Is waking up at 4:30 a regular occurrence? There doesn't even look like there's anyone else here." I ask, puzzled as I look for any other employees.
"No, it isn't, but I need to get you into the library system and explain your schedule." Astral stated monotone thick in her voice. " I guess you can sort of think of me as your assistant, but to be quite honest, the entire tech department is pretty much the assistant to all of the other groups. So usually there is an I.T pony or multiple per section." I nod as my brain shifts through her words and places the important information in a folder for later.
"So now what?" I ask, wondering why we're still standing outside.
"Well, we have to wait for Ma'am to arrive," Astral states, using the door's reflection to adjust her bangs till they were covering both of her eyes.
" I really enjoyed last night, we should visit the park maybe this weekend?" I got to say no more before Ma'am appeared from the sky to which both Astral and I bowed to.
"Greetings, Ms. Sparkle and Astral Justice. I trust you both slept well." Luna says, looking groggy. Both of us nodded as she continued, "Today Astral Justice will show you your workspace and your duties. You are now head of information which involves more than just books. They will aid you in the five days prior to this, for we have a group of special guests next week." Luna unlocked the door before starting to fly back toward the castle looming in the distance..
"Okay, so as the head of information, you need to know not only where information is stored but also how to access it, application to missions, and how to analyze documents to retrieve applicable information." Astral said, leading me to a large office area. "This is where your desk is the library is through those main doors and, the departments form a Cresent moon this is the first department, tech is next door, then restoration, then the peace makers, science, mission center, construction, and finally the administration." She said before taking a large breath. "This seems very confusing." I thought to myself as I digested the information.
" Okay... now what do I have to do first?" I asked. My eyebrow raised slightly in confusion.
"Ah, yeah, let's get you signed in, and I will explain what you are required to do." She said, before I could respond she was heading towards my desk soon the only sound throught the building was the clacks of keys " Using this computer you will be able to access your missions, information, spells, magical weapons, upcoming company events, your productivity per quarter, and the staff under you. Everything is monitored by the tech department and Ma'am." Monotone thick in her voice.
" Well, you seem really excited to tell me all about its functions." I said, giving her a sad look.
She chuckled. "I've repeated all of this probably nine or ten times it gets really repetitive. Now you should be all set, I'll leave my info on a sticky note and hand it to you at lunch or after work. When this department was created it was originally just a sortof magic and semi information branch. But I decided to introduce computers and it became the technical support branch, I've been here probably 3 months maybe."
"I get the feeling of stuff being repetitive practically my life for the past. However, long has been extremely repetitive. And thanks for everyth-" I got no further as the sound of glass shattering startled me. "What is going on?" I thought.
"Twilight stay behind me, at least for now." Astral whispered, creating a synthetic scythe with her magic. I did as she asked and followed close behind. "Twilight, I am going to take care of this pony here if you see or hear anything summon a weapon." She said, whispering more. I stood in the shadows, but I heard a noise where we were earlier, so I missed Astral's eyes leaking pale green whisps and her bangs raising in the air. "So who are you? Oh well, it doesn't matter." She said, using her scythe to chop the leg off the assailant. I was shocked but as the noises continued my eyes darken and I feel that familiar aura around my horn I quickly summon a large blade the poor person didnt even see me coming I easily sliced the wing off but grew confused hen there was no blood. "What is going on?" I thought before remembering that this was most likely a drill. "Oh, well, it was still quite interesting"I smiled slightly when I got into this job. I wasn't expecting a lot, but it has been quite a roller-coaster.
"Greetings, Ms. Sparkle and Astral Justice, this was simply a test using our new robots! You completed it not only fast but efficiently. As you may know, we hold many team building exercises such as an event similar to a Gladiator tournament, but it is usually set in teams of two. I think both of you would absolutely dominate the competition." Luna said as Astral walked in, levitating the robot in her greenish blue magic.
"Ah, yes, Twilight, it is your turn to help train the lunar guards! However, tonight, to add an extra challenge, you will also assist the solar guards as well. I suppose Astral Justice could assist you?" Luna said pride lacing her voice at the mere thought of her lunar guards.
"Ma'am it would be my honor to assist Twilight.What time am I to arrive at the castle?" Astral said, giving me a small but genuine smile.
" Sraight after work, I would, however, stop by your abode to feed Robert. And please do bring over more pictures. We have quite a soft apot for adorable animals." Luna said.
"Will do Ma'am, he just got this adorable duck costume! I will have to bring some by for my mother as well." Astral said.
"Splenddid! Salutations, and please go on lunch." Luna said as she walked toward her office."Isn't it a bit early for lunch? What time even is it?" This thought crossed my mind before I eventually just asked.
"What time is it?" I asked, turning to look at Astral.
" It is almost eleven am, we usually get an hour for lunch. The whole setting up the computer and such took at least an hour. Then the explanation and the printing of your schedule took another hour to an hour and a half, and so on. I guess time doesn't fly when you're with me, plus, Ma'am was also a bit late. Astral said nonchalantly, somewhat shrugging. "How did I not notice?" I thought. "I guess I just never looked at the clock."
"What did you bring for lunch?" Astral said, snapping me from my thoughts. "Lunch! I forgot!"
"I uh forgot... I'll probably get something from the vending machine." I rubbed the back of my neck.
" Do you mean the vending machine that sells protein bars harder than a rock? That vending machine? That simply won't do. I have extra food you can have." Astral said with finality. I followed after her, taking note of how packed the office looked. "People usually start arriving at seven or eight, but every section has different starting hours. Most do start at like eight or eight thirty." I nodded my
"What does training the guards imply?" I asked, feeling a bit lost and nervous.
"Well, it's mainly hoof to hoof combat, but there are occasional magic matches or even holographic fights using holographic weapons. It usually only happens when I am there, though, due to my ties with such. I am also quite skilled when it comes to illusionary magic." Astral said, and just one glance at her cutie mark would provide the same conclusion it was a black splotch with one's and zero's filling it. However, something odd I noticed was how some of the ones and zeros were lighter in color, seeming to form a pattern. "I suppose Ma'am really wants to put on a show for the guests and princess Celestia. I think it'll be fun taking on 10 guards at once!" She said, grinning." I hear your brother Captian Shining Armor will also be attending. Here's the lunch room, it is communal between both offices, that's why it's such a far walk."She said, leading me into a large glass room. "I guess that makes sense, it would also be cost effective." I thought as I let Astral lead me to a table.
"Here you can have my sun butter sandwich. Or my salad." She stated, pulling out said sandwich and salad from her bag that she must have grabbed sometime on our walk here.
" Uh, may I have the salad?" I said skeptical.
"Sure! Oh, and here, I have half of my sandwich too! I don't want you to get hungry during training." She said, passing over half well, more like three-fourths of a sandwich and a container of salad. I finally got a good look at the cafeteria it looked to be made entirely of glass aside from the floor, and it was like a dome. However, it contained edges and corners. On top of that, there seemed to be two floors. However, the second floor was more like a hallway with a large circle in the middle. The sky was a brilliant blue with clouds dotting certain parts. The grass outside lush while it soaked up and badked in the sunlight. I eventually tear my eyes away and start eating embarrassed that I have seemed to drift off quite a bit today.
" I guess I didn't tell you who Robert is. He's my pet raccoon. I would love for you to meet him!" Astral said her head bowed, making it extremely hard to tell where she was looking. "I didn't think of her as the type to own a raccoon, but I guess I did just meet her." I thought.
" I would love to. I myself have an owl and a dragon assistant." I said, smiling fondly at the thought of them.
" That would be fun! Also, what magic do you specialize in? Also, what is your special mark or whatever you want to call it." Astal asked.
" I was told I specialize in all kinds, but I think that I mainly specialize in foreign magic and antithetical magic." I said.
"Huh, that makes sense, but it would make sense for you to be excelled or good at all kinds of magic. Also, what is your go-to weapon? Mine can usually either be a scythe, scythe halberd or even just a dagger." She recited using her magic to create small minuture versons of each weapon.
"Well, I prefer to use a sword or even a saber a lance isn't out of the realm of possibility." I state creating my own set of miniature raspberry colored weapons. Before I knew it, my weapons were picked up in a magic color similar to mine, and Astral had created a small illusion of a battlefield and a small illusion of herself and me and had them battle.
"Astral woah, your illusion magic is really good!" I said, admiring the way they battled.
"Yeah, it entertains my brother, and it was always one of the more interesting types of magic." She said, tilting her head back down to finish her food.
"That's sweet! So, do you hang out with him a lot?" I asked, noticing she was glancing at her watch.
"Sorry, but lunch is almost over. we'd better head back. I do occasionally, but work and game development take a lot of my time." She said, I nodded this time, focusing on the hallways and corridors. Everything seemed 'pretty bland' "That is something Rarity would definitely say. I can't seem to diatance or distract myself from them." I frowned no matter how hard I tried. My thoughts would go back to them. I continued making a mental map of the building, walking in a comfortable silence as ponies walked all around me. I felt my anxiety growing. I had never done well with crowds or ponies in general. But now, as a princess, it's become the norm, which has led to more than one anxiety attack. "Just more fuel to my anger at the 'Puppet master' Celestia. I mean, I know very well that I am not by any means mentally stable, well, at least 25% of the time. Being immortal on top of that, I know I will spiral downward one of these days. She knew all of this yet she turned me into a princess." I felt anger begin welling up inside of me more than I had ever expected, my mane lifting and my fur started from my hooves drastically lightening until it was a pale yellow. I took a large deep breath and repaired my stoic face. The afternoon went by like a blur. I have already started making changes to the information department, such as creating a spreadsheet to tell who inputs
what information and the source of said information.
"Hey, I was wondering if you would like to meet Robert? You don't have to. I just thought that since we were both heading to the castle, you might want to meet him." Astral sputtered out it seems she doesn't do this often.
I giggled," I'd be delighted to meet Robert. Plus, do you need any equipment to help train the knights? Like something to make the illusion easier on you?" I asked genuinely curious as we walked side by side.
"Yeah, it allows me to input magic, and then I can still be in the battle. It took a while, but I found using certain runes and magical properties. I can add a portion of magic, and it only takes four of the devices to keep the illusion steady." She said I nodded, hoping to see some of her work and calculations.
A large smile appeared on my face, " I would love to see some of your work and compare it to my own, I've been working on a way to detect magic levels using a bit of magic and combining it with a small amount of gold which runs throughout all of Equestria to detect not only pony magic but also natural and old runes or spells on books." I was quite giddy at even the sheer thought of comparing notes. My friends always found me boring or weird when I tried to explain or even show them my notes.
"Sure, I've never compared notes with anyone before. Well, anyone who didn't find it dumb or crazy." She said as we walked into the bright clear afternoon the sun beating harshly, this way is the quickest way to my house she said as she turned down a deserted road, I followed her as we took a left, then a right,and finally another left. Her house looked somewhat small compared to the large and extravagant homes surrounding it but it was a white color with a green tint the roof was a deep blue and it looked to be two floors it also had a somewhat large porch, but walking inside it was sort of walking into a different house it was well lit with wooden floors and the walls were different shades of green each room having it's own. Two flights of stairs led up to the second floor, which seemed to have lighter colors on one half and forest green on the other half.
"Twilight follow me. I usually keep Robert in my room while I'm at work it's just over here," She led me up the right staircase and toward the deeper colored side. We passed a few doors, and she opened the door at the very end. A small raccoon climbed onto her almost instantly, causing her to chuckle lightly. She carefully used her magic to unwrap the now displeased raccoon. It looked like any normal raccoon except for its small size and brownish coloring. Overall, it's a cute little critter.
"He's adorable! " I exclaim she gives a nod before bringing him back into her room and returning with a bag filled with most likely pictures and the devices to help with the illusion.
"Alright, let's head to the castle. I am not too thrilled, at least to travel throught he castle. It's always so busy." She said, heading down the stairs. "I've left some fruits and stuff upstairs for Robert since I had some extra stuff from lunch."
"Well, I am pretty nervous and excited, so how does the simulated training work exactly?" I said, staring out at the trees and buildings as we walked.
"Well I create an illusionary battle field and using my magic I am able to simulate not only weapons but ponies aswell so it sort of emurses said ponies into the battle ground, so weapons can be used without harming the opponents. However, we should probably do that last. It usually somewhat drains me, but if you'd like to help, it will probably go faster." She said, unsure of herself. My eyes sparkle and brighten immensely.
"That does sound interesting. Plus, it's not every day I get to witness multiple illusion spells at the same time projecting a battlefield at that!" I stated, blushing knowing that I had been rambling.
She chuclked," I have been rambling all day pretty much, no need to be that embarrassed."
I rolled my eyes. "Says the person whose bangs pretty much cover their entire face."I scoffed, smirking.
"Well, I never that wasn't very princessly no, that wasn't very noble nor ladylike of you!" She said, huffing and sighing dramatically. "When she is dramatic, it's funny the opposite is true for Rarity. I guess that goes for all my friends it is really just uncomfortable for me." I said to myself as the castle looming in the distance grew bigger and bigger with each step. I could tell we were both dreading the castle, so the steps grew shorter and slower, but we eventually came face to face with the gates, our fates already sealed hours beforehand.
"Princess Twilight, and Ms. Justice." A guard said, bowing just like the Pegasus guard on the other end of the gate. I nodded politely, and Astral went to show them what was in her bag and her I.D. I walked into the open gates
"Yep, thanks, I'm glad she's doing well. Bye." I could hear snippets of Astral conversing with the unicorn guard that had spoken to us. She soon passed through the gates. "Sorry to keep you waiting since my mom and I work different hours. I usually don't get to see her often." She said.
"Don't apologize. I'm the same way at first it was because of where I lived, but now it's because I feel awkward around her, but aside from that, let's get guard training started!" I said my tone, turning cheery.
"Yes, we just first need to find either my mother or Princess Luna. For the pictures and to collect the guards out onto the field..." I nodded in understanding before she continued." The guard told me she was in the throne room." She finished, and we walked down the hallway guards and maids bowing at me while I provided a smile."I am absolutely exhausted. But beating up royal guards doesn'tsound to bad." I was inwardly smirking.
There they were the large doors I've been in and out of plenty of times. As the doors open, a sour taste fills my mouth. Each step I take towards the two regal sisters feeling like concrete, yet my face is covered with a facade. A smile is not a true one, just a smile.
"Good afternoon, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and visiting Princess Cadenza, I was sent with my associate Princess Twilight to train both the solar and lunar troops. Would you be ever so kind as to direct them to the training field. You and your company are free to watch." Astral said, bowing.
" I would be honored to see what this training entails. Cadence, I'm sure you are also wondering the same?" Celestia said her pearly teeth radiating the same light it seemed her sun gave off.
"Of course, Aunt Celestia, I've never seen Twilight fight, plus I'm sure my husband will want to join in." Cadence said.
Luna smirked. " Ah, yes, we are always in the mood for combat! I assume you will also be using the illusionary battlefield?" She finished walking towards Astral.
"Of course, my princess, it does seem to have gained your favor?" Astral said. Luna walked until she was right in front of Astral without a sound. Astral handed a large bag of photos to Luna, who quickly teleported them to who knows where. At this, everyone else in the room shared confused looks.
"Ah, Pardon meh Princess, but could we watch the training too?" Applejack asked from her spot at the side of the room.
"Yeah, that would be totally awesome!" Rainbow Dash said her wings buzzing with anticipation.
"I don't see why not. It will give you the chance to see the royal guard in action." Celestia smiled. Luna then shuffled over to her assistant Brave moon if I'm not mistaken, asking her to 'round up' the guards if I'm not mistaken.
Soon, Astral and I were standing on a dirt lot with guards surrounding us. "Alright, we'll start off with hoof to hoof combat a group of ten here for me and then ten for Astral over there, preferably five solar and five lunar guards." I stated confidence firm in my tone.
Once all of the guards were set up in groups of ten special rings were placed on all of the unicorn guards, Astral and me. They were placed on our horns to keep foul play via magic out of the question. " Alright, when the buzzer sounds, we will start! Give everything you have done, not hold back just because I am a princess, nor because I am in a white button shirt with a tie. When you are either pinned or unconscious, you will leave the round." I yelled and glanced over at Astral she gave a firm nod, and I signaled for the buzzer to sound. Once it did, the combat began. I glanced at the guards as two came flying at me I maneuvered around the first one and easily pinned the brown Pegasus to the ground by using his speed to place a certain amount of my weight when he flew by and due to him missing he didn't have the chance to change direction. I jumped on top of him, much to his surprise, shining my weight again to pin him. "One down nine more to go." I thought as I stood up and the guard stalked off, three more tried to pin me but I contorted my wings and easily sent a gust of wind causing them to loose focus. I began to creep behind when the second Pegasus from the beginning attempted to punch me, I blocked and then used his forehoof to flip him over me and onto two of the three ponies bringing all three to the ground. The next came at me with a kick towards my muzzle I used my forehoof to not only shield my muzzle but to encase it with both forehooves using my wings to keep myself steady, twisting his leg and dropping him to the ground. I then held his forehoof behind his back in the air."My my, that was something." the voice stated I simply paid it no mind.I dusted off my shirt and adjusted my tie silently celebrating before I was knocked off balance by a kick, as to not topple over I steadied myself with my wings and jumped into the air locking eyes with the perp. My eyes were cold as they pierced through his grey ones."You are enjoying yourself too much. Just admit I'm right. " the voice said. I just ignore it.Then I dove toward the ground. However, he thought I was diving at him, resulting in him shielding his head. "Diving is just reckless," I thought, using my speed to land swiftly behind him and easily pinning him in his state of shock. "Only what five or so left?" I thought, glancing at the audience seeing many shocked faces, Luna was smirking, and Rainbow Dash was seemingly in a I heard wings flapping behind me as another guard tried to surprise me only for me to flap my wings and jump into the air knocking her of balance and easily pinning the already grounded Pegasus due to the rapid and unsteady decent. As Pegasus walked off, someone managed to kick me. But it wouldn't happen again. The remaining earth ponies and unicorns were surrounding me. So utilizing my wings, I gave them a good flap, then punched two in the stomachs and sent them into the others, resulting in all of my opponents being taken down. I stood victorious as I wiped sweat and dirt off of me, adjusting the collar and tie that was now hanging loose around my neck from the fighting. I fixed the wrinkles in my shirt and walked towards the balcony where everyone was seated watching the fights. Everyone stared at me in shock.
"What? It was all simple calculations, and anyone could have done it." I stated, sitting next to Luna.
"Twilight Sparkle, it seems Astral is versing your Captian Shining Armor and eight other guards at once!" I watched anxiously at the semi large mass of ponies.
Astral's point of view
When the buzzer sounded I watched as all ten ponies charged at me, using my height and size I was able to doge a few of the attacks resulting in a Unicorn being knocked unconscious and taken out of the round. Using speed and precision, I was able to knock out another two guards using my rear hooves.
"Well, this is a bit disappointing." I said as a punch aimed for my gut came towards me. I simply kicked the guard before he could reach me, resulting in another guard being taken out. Adjusting my stance, I sent another guard flying with a tornado kick. I then added a buck on top of that, leaving me and about five or six other guards. I used my speed to create a powerful punch, resulting in a guard falling unconscious and air swishing around.
With my leg still back and a punch heading toward my head, I blocked it, balancing on two hooves. I flipped the guard underneath me, pinning him, and blocking an extremely powerful punch, a rock sliced the side of my face. "Well, this just got interesting." I said I then wiped the blood off my cheek, licking it off my hoof. Using my now saliva covered hoof, I slicked back my bangs. Before clipping them with a clip, I had stuck onto my tie.
"I would hope so. I am the best." Shining Armor said. "I believe I've heard of you. But the fact you were able to pin and / or defeat six guards now with your eyes covered." He said, throwing another punch. I blocked, throwing a punch myself. This continued with the occasional kick. My stamina was draining, so I launched two punches both aimed at his arm. However, a changed course of the second one launched him backward. At this point, my eyes were flaming as light greenish yellow mist surrounded them,flaring as anger coursed through me. I stalked toward Shining Armor, whose back hooves were still somewhat shaking from the impact. The mist dissipated, and I delicately twisted my body onto his back he fell to the ground, and I pinned his hoof to his back.
"Oh, how the mighty fall." I said, smiling, helping him back up and unclipping my bangs. He gave a hearty chuckle.
I quickly pinned the stunned guards and walked off the field. The silence was loud. Removing the ring from around my horn, I swiftly teleported up where Twilight was.
"Astral Justice, Huzzah! That was quite the honorable victory!" Ma'am said, smiling at me.
"Thank you, my princess. I hope that was entertaining enough for you," I said, straightening my shirt.
"It twas! But what did we expect, you would make an excellent soldier." Luna said, a few other ponies nodding.
" Astral, that was amazing. You must have trained quite a bit." Twilight said, staring at me.
" I've been trained practically my whole life. But fast reflexes are probably my biggest attributes." I said my face stoic.
"How in tarnation did you beat Twi's brother?" An orange mare said eyes wide.
"Yes, I would also like to know that... I don't think I've ever seen someone defeat him in a hoof to hoof fight." Princess Celestia stated.
"Yes, if you ever want a position, the Crystal Empire is always looking." Princess Cadenza stated, looking at Twilight and I.
"I am sorry to have to turn down that wonderful opportunity. However, my family is and will continue to be loyal to Princess Luna. Along the lines of how I simply looked for a statigic opening, which shoaed itself sue to his focus being on on my hoof colliding with his as that had been going back and forth for a few minutes. To some, that could be considereda 'low blow'. However, it was an opening, and I still had guards to take care of." I stated emotion not present in my voice.
"Who are you, Ms?" A white unicorn with a well-kept mane asked, batting her eyelashes a bit.
"I could ask you five the same question. As for who I am to put it simply. Astral Justice at your service, daughter of Astral Wish. I may also be known for my coding and / or video game." I stated, getting surprised looks from pretty much everyone aside from Ma'am.
"How do you not know who we are? We've saved Equestria countless times. We're like the coolest, especially me!" A blue Pegasus said.
"Well, to be quite frank, most of these problems were solved but not permanently, and on top of that, I believe it was the elements of harmony that stopped said villians. Plus-" I was cutoff by the blue Pegasus.
"We are the element bearers, I'm loyalty, Aj is honesty, Flutters is kindness, Rarity is generosity, and Pinkie is laughter. Who are you to say we're nobody's!"The mare said, glaring at me.
"Before you interrupted me, I was going to say that you are selfish. You all have used your titles to gain fame when, in reality, the way I see it, usually Princess Twilight saves you. This past incident with Tirek. You, the element of honesty, failed to notice she wasn't being honest. And you generosity pride yourself on buying expensive things for yourself and are selfish. To conclude, if not for the elements or even for Princess Twilight, life would be quite different. Not once have you mentioned or even acknowledged Princess Twilight." I stated emotion nonexistent.
"If I'm not mistaken, Luna isn't Astral Wish one of your scribes?" Celestia asked while everyone gazed at me in complete and utterly disbelief.
"Yes, dear sister, however, the House of Grimstar has stood by us for millenia and then it was said they had all died." Ma'am stated smiling.
"Ah, yes aren't the Grimstars said to be related to Sombra." Celestia said her eyes cold and dark.
"You should know the answer to that question. " I stated.
"Well it's getting late. we'd best get to the main attraction." I said levitating my bag and taking the four devices giving two to Twilight. "It should take no more power than a small teleportation spell. You'll know when there's enough magic due to the light indicators" I said. Twilight lit her horn and I lit mine. Both were powered up easily, I then teleported both me and the saucer looking objects. I placed them on the two edges of the field. Twilight did the same. I stepped into the center and lit .y horn and soon a large purple box surrounded me. I created a battlefield inside and then I walked out and activated a screen in front of the audience. The guards lined up, "Twilight would you like to enter first and prepare your weapon?" I asked.
"Sure !" She said and as she entered her body remained frozen. I gently levitated her body over a bit so that it didn't get hurt during the fights.
"What did you do to Twilight!" The Blue Pegasus screamed.
"I simply moved her body over so that she doesn't get injured." I stated heading towards the line of guards." The first three guards may enter,and I will move their bodies, but after I enter the cube a Unicorn will have to do it." I proceed to move the three bodies back a few inches. I then entered the cube and asked the three guards what weapons they want, two chose swords and the other chose a bow. I summoned my scythe and walked to Twilight. Then an automated voice started counting down. "Three, two, one, begin!" I walked towards the three guards my scythe draging on the imaginary ground." Let's make this interesting. Would you like to take the first swing or should I? You each have three hearts when you get hit you lose one. I see Twilight behind them, saber, ready to strike" Alright I guess I'll go first!" I exclaimed as I swung slicing two legs one off of each two of the three guards. The guards aimed at my but never got the chance.Twilight sliced the head off of the third guard. They teleported behind us and two of them charged, I used my scythe to remove the weapons from them and keep them occupied while Twilight sliced along the two swordsmen's backs. Then the last guard started shooting arrows. They ran as they made contact with Twilights saber, but one of them bounced off her saber and came an inch away from her neck her aura surrounding the arrow. I collected a large group of arrows and flung them at the guards. The guard with the bow and I left it up to Twilight she used her wings to make shooting arrows at her impossible and then she threw her saber, resultingin our first victory"We won!" The guards returned outside unharmed and we looked at each other both grinning.
We continued to battle Twilight only getting hit twice, I had a lot of too close calls. In the end we remained victorious and then we left the cube. I deactivated it and the four devices.
"Man who knew beating up royal guards was a stress reliever." Twilight chuckled, we walked towards the balcony and I let the cold demeanor back onto my face.
" I suppose we'd better explain... ugh, " Twilight stated scowling.
"I don't know any of them aside from Ma'am. I don't really need to get into your affairs." I stated walking away just to be brought right back.
" Princess Twilight, I am not by any means good at social situations without coming off as impolite or improper, and I am not a scape goat or a good shoulder to cry on." I whinned out.
Twilight's point of view
" Princess Twilight, I am not by any means good at social situations without coming off as impolite or improper, and I am not a scape goat or a good shoulder to cry on." Astral said making my eyes widen from the two days I've known her she doesn't seem to be the type to show emotion and if so quite rarely. "I really don't want to face them alone so, sorry Astral," I knew she would try to leave again so I guess I'll just hold her in my magic until we are atleast on the balcony. So I levitated her whilst I flew landing on the balcony and placing Astral next to me, if she was upset she didn't show it.
"Pardon me, but I will take my leave if you will grant it." Astral said bowing. She started walking out just for me to levitate her back. She simply fixed her tie and was silent.
"It seems Twilight wishes you to stay, so how about you join Cadence, Luna, Twilight, and I for tea?" Celestia asked staring down at Astral.
"I shall accompany you to tea thank you for the invitation. I am honored." Astral said bowing again however her tone didn't change from its usual bored and somewhat off setting demeanor.
"How lovely, whe should head along now as the sun will be setting soon." Celestia said walking through the doors leading into the castle, once the balcony was empty Astral walked at the back behind Celestia, Luna, Cadence and I. I found it odd as she usually walked beside me, but maybe it was an etiquette thing.
"So Astral, what do you do for work?" Cadence asked staring at Astral, the royal sisters soon joining in.
" I have a few different jobs, my main is working for an organization which provides technical support and information to regiments across our fine nation. I am also an inventor and so on." Astral said I don't think anyone knew where her eyes were looking but they nodded anyway.
"How do you know Twilight?" Cadence asked I continued to walk but at a slower pace, so that I could walk next to Astral. I think she was grateful as she let a small smile creep onto her face.
"Well, Princess Twilight and I met originally per Princess Luna's request, however it turns out we work for the same organization. Two different departments however." She stated, I nodded curtly as we reached the 'Royal tea room' I had always preferred coffee.
As we entered Astral sat closest to the door. "Luna I never took you for the type to recommend people to others." Celestia said as a maid left to fetch tea.
"Tis, true dear sister, however Astral Justice is quite similar to Twilight Sparke. They are both 'nerds' as the populace would put it." Luna said as serious as ever resulting in me becoming embarrassed and Astral simply shrugging her shoulders. Cadence was desperately trying not to burst out laughing but giggles were escaping and Celestia looked amused.
"Astral Justice what tis funny? I spoke no joke such as why did the chicken cross the road. I don't understand." Luna said scooting closer to Astral and I.
"I belive they are amused at you calling Princess Twilight and I nerds, but I do not think it is untrue, do you Princess?" Astral said peaking at me from underneath her bangs.
"Well, I suppose not, but I would rather not have said description define me." I stated some what glaring at Celestia.
"So, there is one question and I want a sincere answer, Why is there so little love in your heart?" Cadence asked gaining her composer.
"If I am to be honest and frank, I do not usually form relationships and per my teaching love is not something to feel right off the bat, it must be earned. As for admiration. I have wondered whether your ability to see people's relationships could allow you to confuse admiration with love if it is based on your own perception on relationships and love itself." Astral said shocking me. Cadence seemed shocked as well before she answered seeming to chose her words carefully.
" I myself wonder what my ability comes from but as for my definition of love it comes in many sizes, colors, and beings. It is not my place to define love, as it is different it changes and morphs. But as for love yes certain types must be earned, but others are always there, such as the way a mother loves her foal." Cadence spoke.
"I also have a question, why are you friends with Twilight and do you really not know who the element bearers are?" Celestia asked staring down at Astral trying to search for any emotion as that was her speciality.
"I am friends with Princess Twilight not for fame or to be close to the elite. I already am, I am friends with her because of the fact that she somewhat understands my struggles and how my brain works. And I didn't gor a long time up until most likely last week or so. Just because I live in Equestria doesn't mean I know of all of the affairs. I researched them and what I came up with is simply upsetting. During the Tirek attack Princess Twilight saved them even though they hav treated her bad on multiple occasions. Princess Twilight had everything under control aside from some collateral damage. They have grown greedy, and selfish instead of selfless as they are perceived thanks to you and the media." Astral stated monotone thick in the statement.
"I have no clue what you are talking about." Celestia smiled but it was off some how.
"You use your gift of reading people to your advantage in everything, you cannot however read me due to my nature. You are angry and trying to either get a rise out of me or find some reason to punish me." Astral stated my mouth agape. Cadence coughed on her tea and Luna was silent.
" You are quite smart, it seems I cannot control my temper seeing as I have used my ability for over a millenia." Celestia chuckled her demeanor shifting back into the kind and thoughtful Sun Princess everyone knew her to be.
"I would like to ask you Astral, are you really related to Sombra?" Cadence asked after her recovery.
"I am not a direct dependant of Sombra however he was of the Grimstar house, he was banished due to his foul use of our family ability." Astral stated. "Each noble family has a special ability, mine happens to be Shadow eyes. If I am correct your ability Princess Cadenza is the ability to see a person's heart." Astral said shocking Cadence.
"How did you know?" Cadence asked and I nodded at this point my curiosity dieing to be filled as if I was reading a good book.
" Since you are biologically royalty from the Crystal Empire it only makes sense due to the available records." Astral said.
" I would be heavily surprised if you know mine" I state knowing that I don't use mine very often.
"Well yours is tricky but it is ultimately that you can turn into a fire pony but it is also like another side of your very being." Astral said shocking everypony including me.
"You'd be correct but I technically have two as I am from two noble households. As for the entire other personality you are correct, it is not however by choice. And as you should know my family's ability has remained dormant for years." I stated taking a few sips of my tea.
"How does that even work?" Cadence said staring at me somewhat concerned.
"Well if I get mad my mane lights on fire, I have read eyes, and my coat is a super light tan color, similar to a candle. Shining Armor doesn't have this ability he has the crystalline shield." I said Cadence seemed to breathe easy after I said that Shining Armor didn't inherit said ability.
"I am sorry sorry to leave tea so soon but I do however need to head home, as I need to get someone to sleep before I can sleep, I also have work. If I may take my leave?" Astral said. Celestia and Luna nodded. Astral bowed once again leaving me to deal with the three princesses alone.
"Twilight, what do you know about Astral?" Celestia asked I gulped.
"Yeah, spill the tea Twiliy." Cadence teased.
"Uh, well she has a younger brother, she is skilled with illusion magic she used it to entertain him. I uh, don't know her age, but she is entertaining. She can be kind, funny, and uh a bit cold." I stated Celestia and Cadence giggling like school fillies.
"A bit cold? Are we talking about the same pony?" Celestia chuckled.
"Her house is interesting it is a lot of green, but different shades, and it is sortof like her house is divided into two. I don't know, well and there's Robert." I said all three princesses now eager.
"Robert tis quite adorable, especially in the most recent images. I have not seen him in person yet." Luna stated.
"What is with the dress shirt and tie?" Cadence asked pointing a hoof at my clothing choice.
"It's the dress code, everyone wears it plus their identification badge so you can go certain places. Plus when your the head of said department it is good to look the part." I stated confidence firm in my tone and practically radiating off me.
"So you run a department? Is it the Information department?" Celestia asked smiling warmly. I inwardly scowled.
"Yes, it is, isn't that so Luna." I stated looking toward Luna smirking.
She set down her tea cup getting ready to drink from it when I made the statement. "What does Aunt Luna have to do with your organization?" Cadence sat ther confused.
"Tis time for me to raise thy fateful moon! Farewell!" Luna said quickly leaving. Two pairs of eyes bore into me I sat there sweat on my brow.
"Twilight what's going on?" Cadence said as she walked toward me and started circling me like a shark.
"Ugh I didn't get Astral's contact info." I thought inside of my head.
"Why didn't you?" Cadence said stopping her circle.
"I said that out loud? Plus why should I tell you two?" I asked crossing my forehooves.
" You did and I am your sister in law why wouldn't you tell me?" Cadence stated using her best puppy dog eyes. I huffed.
"Well we were going to share notes, plus we were going to walk though another section of the park." I said sighing "Well now what secrets do you have, well I know but you are a doormat." the voice said.
"I know that, but I always fold like a house of cards to the puppy eyes. " I responded trying to figure out how to stop myself from caving.
"Twilight, you spaced out." Cadence said her amethyst eyes boring into mine.
"I am alright. What were you saying?" I asked looking embarrassed and ashamed as I twirled my forehooves around.
"I asked you what park?" She said sitting infront of me.
"Oh, well I belive it had a sign labeling it the Garden of Astoria. It was beautiful and huge. It was apparently all due to restoration spells and such." I said lifting my head everyone slightly but not making eye contact. "I've never been a fan of eye contact or really eyes on me in general" I thought glancing around.
"I've heard of the beauty it possess, I haven't had the time to visit." Celestia's stated having returned from setting the sun.
"Yes, well I must be heading to my room, goodnight." I stated standing up and heading for the door.
"Please bring Ms. Astral around again. She is quite interesting." Celestia said walking up behind me her gold clad hooves clicking against the tile. The sound rung in my ears. " You most likely just want another puppet. You truly are the very evil you've requirred me to fight, but even then the sun sees all, it does not however know all. I will bid my time but I know exactly what you seem to crave and what pushes you to the brink." malicious thoughts floated freely as another drop of hatred was added to the ever growing puddle. I walked down the semi empty halls ready to read more books pertaining to the many forms of magic and what each required. " Celestia you will face Justice, that of the heavens and Tarus." I smiled slightly "This is my stage, you may be good at puppet shows but I am quite smart, I will win this chess match "
