A Season in the Sun VI

>Day of Our Misplaced Generosity in Equestria

>Be Princess Celestia the frustrated

>Your horn tingles and sparks with magic against your will for the moment as you stir from your slumber

>The time comes once more for you to raise the sun for your ponies

>You stride across the marble floor of your bedroom to a large, glass door leading out to a balcony

>The doors ease open under your expert will as you move to one dark edge and watch the night begin to churn

>The moon ducks under the horizon as you call upon the sphere of life-giving light and the first warm rays cross the sleepy lands

>A cock welcomes your morning with its call from somewhere below your palace and you smirk with a satisfied sigh

>Your mind grades last night's dream as you amble back into your quarters

>Twilight was in it, sleeping so soundly on your bed as you had seen her do during her formative years

>You approach her little body and smile at her as she snores lightly and dreams her childhood dreams

>Then, you remember seeing -him-

>You hate him, he just stands in one corner of the room and watches you

>Standing in his two-legged manner with his hands by his side, he nods as if listening to a music that is not there

>You don't want him near your student and, if you had it your way, near any other pony

>He smiles at you and speaks, but no sound comes from him

>This part makes you curious now as you dwell on it

>Anonymous steps into the hallway and falls over

>You peer outside to see his fallen body turned to stone and your sister standing over him

>Her eyes are wild and her mane burns with cosmic fury as she bellows in your direction

>You see her screaming and you are sure her voice would boom in the halls, but there is still no sound to be heard

>Luna's angry, twisted features continue to yell at you and tears stream to the floor

>Each tear drop is a black dollop of nothing you know of and they splash loudly

>The dream ends as you see Luna's body fade with each tear drop until nothing is left but a large, black puddle surround the statute of the human servant

>An odd dream, you think, as you don your royal regalia and head out towards the dining hall

>You push the intrusive thoughts aside as a maid approaches you

>"Princess, breakfast is ready."

>She speaks quickly before bouncing along with clean bedding propped on her back

>You stop her as she passes you

"Little one, would you do me a favor and check up on Luna in the west wing?"

>She nods her head twice and smiles before cantering off

>It would be unfair to have breakfast with your sister this early

>She needs rest after keeping the moon in its heaven all night

>You think that you will share dinner together as you so often do and speak then, but it would not hurt to see if Luna is still awake

>You continue down the hall and watch as many different servants file in and out of rooms, royal guards line halls and escort other workers, and many scribes carry untold stacks of papers to and fro in their mad scramble called, 'administration'

>As you pass a window, you see guards training in the yard with sword and shield and you smile

>You never would want war to encompass your nation as so often occurred in the past, but you cannot help to think of how enjoyable steel between your teeth felt

>You trot a bit as the nostalgic bliss fills you and make your way to the south wing

>Your face returns to its regal position as you enter to see chefs moving about to set your seat and ready a meal

>The smell of delightful pastries fill your nose and your mouth waters in anticipation

>You keep your air of dignity as you take your seat and patiently wait

>A silver platter quickly finds its way before you and the lid lifts to reveal a buffet of decedent treats

>You lift a moist bit of bread topped with icing and take a regal nibble

>The chef at your side has tense eyes and you can see a bead of sweat build at his brow

>For nothing more than your amusement, you swish the delicious food in your mouth and act as if you are grading it

>You pause and swallow as the chef's breathing thins to a nonexistent level

>Another moment passes before you finally give him release and smile

"Excellent as ever. I really enjoy the warm filling. Butter cream, I take it?"

>He sighs and relaxes as his head nods quickly

>"The finest batch I have ever made. Fresh and warm as always, my Princess."

"I look forward to the wonderful treats you come up with, Chef Patty. I can hardly wait for brunch."

>You slip a smile to him and he nearly falls over

>"Yes, brunch! Oh course, it'll be magnificent! You have my word!"

>You take a sip of water and chuckle at his enthusiasm

>The door opens and in steps a light-blue mare with a starry hat and cape

>Her face flits between determination and unease as she looks in your direction

"Hello, my little pony, good morning."

>You disarm her with a wide grin and wave a hoof to a seat near yourself

>The mare takes a step in and cautiously approaches you

>When she draws near enough, you gesture to a seat and raise your eyes to her

"And what is your name?"

>"T-Trixie, your majesty. The Great and P-Powerful Trixie..."

>The name rings in your head for the moment

"Oh, I believe I have heard of you before. My pupil had told me about you some time ago."

>"You know... I mean, of course you know! The Great and Powerful Trixie is the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria."

>You smirk at her as you lift another pastry to your mouth

"Oh, I had no idea I was in the presence of a professional... would you care to show me some of your magic?"

>The little unicorn's eyes dilate to pin pricks and she looks up at you with a pale face

>"Of course, ha ha! I will um, I will show you spectacular feats of spell crafting?"

>She removes herself from the table and walks about three yards away

>After a deep breath, her horn glows bright with raw energy

>You see streamers and fireworks burst all around and Trixie writes her name across the background in a neon blue script

>It is a cute parlor trick and you clop your hooves together lightly in approval

>Trixie suddenly smiles brightly at you and bows as neatly as you please

>"Thank you, thank you!"

>She approaches her seat again with more confidence and sits beside you

"Please, feel free to have whatever you like. Everything is delicious."

>Trixie takes up a slice of bread and butters it evenly with glee

>"Thank you, Princess Celestia. The Great and Powerful Trixie had heard you were kind and generous, but this is much more than the stories would suggest."

>You smile at the concept of other ponies creating fables about you

>It is nice, you think, to be remembered as the heroine that Equestria deserves

"So, have you been in the castle long?"

>"Oh, no, I just arrived yesterday."

"Oh? Did you sleep here?"

>"Yes, it was the best sleep the Great and Powerful Trixie has ever had."

>You nod and think

"Did you come with guests?"

>"I came with that weird guy. It's kind of long story, but believe me when I say that he is a pain in the saddle."

>Trixie snorts quickly and you cannot suppress a growing grin

"Sir Anonymous, you mean?"

>"Yes, that's him! He tricked me, insulted me and tried to make a fool of the Great and Powerful Trixie."

"Oh my... it does sound like him."

>Your grin twists evilly as you continue discussing Anonymous

 

>In a warm bed with a beautiful mare coiled around your body

>Be Anonymous the sore

>You lay beside your loving Princess as her hips hold your own

>Your hands stroke through her lush mane and slide down her silken back

>A warm muzzle presses into your face as your lips meet and your tongues entwine

>Your mind buzzes with pleasure as you taste your Princess' warm breath again and feel her thick tongue explore your mouth

>You part with a small slurping sound and stare into her gorgeous eyes

>The feeling of her heartbeat brings you joy and she sighs

>"Anonymous, our dear, sweet Anonymous... we have missed you so."

"Fear not, empress, for we shall never roam without one another again."

>You adjust your lower half as Luna's muscles pull you closer

>"Dost thou feel -up- for another round?"

>The Princess of the Night stares with hungry eyes

"For our Princess, always..."

>One hand takes her face and you begin kissing down her chin and to her throat

>Your free hand glides down Luna's soft body, resting casually between her legs as you grope her small breast

>"Ah~, a gentlecolt as always."

>You smirk as you continue to fondle your dear Princess

>Slowly, you leave a trail of kisses down her body and feel the shivers of anticipation as you move lower

>You crawl partway off the bed so that you can relax your legs as you work on Luna

>Her body is yours to explore and you take great enjoyment in your pleasuring

>A quick sample from the source sets your tongue aflame and you eagerly return for another lap

>The movements and sounds of your lover drives you mad with desire to prove yourself

>A sudden noise catches your attention as the door opens quickly

>You freeze with your tongue stuck to Princess Luna as it would stick to an icicle and you gaze over to the figure in the doorway

>Luna's head quickly turns to one side and she tries to close her legs as if to hide your head

>The maid at the door holds a hoof to her mouth

>"Oh... my..."

>"Kindly servant! Do avert your attention from us!"    

>The maid twists her stare from the two of you as quickly as she can and mumbles through blushing cheeks

>"Um... P-Princess Celestia... she, um... she wants to know if you want b-breakfast?"

>Lacking shame for the moment, you look up to Luna from between her legs

"We could certainly use sustenance after the night."

>Luna's eyes bounce as if focusing on you before she chuckles lightly

>"Yes... we would like fare, dear maid. Would you mind...?"

>Luna gestures to close the door, but the mare stares transfixed for the moment on you

>You clear your throat quickly to grab her attention

>"Oh... oh! Right, yes... um, s-should I come back with new sheets later?"

"This is not the best time nor place for such questions..."

>You shoot a sharp glower to the mare who seems to be drinking in this whole situation

>She suddenly snaps to and shuts the door

>You hear the sound of tapping hooves fade as the maid rushes away

"So... should we..."

>"By all means..."

>Luna reclines again as you ease yourself back into place

 

>At a table quickly clearing of foodstuffs

>Be Princess Celestia

"While he -is- an excellent agent, he was never really in my employ. He's always been my sister's pet project."

>Trixie shifts in her seat for the moment

>"Yes, the Great and Powerful Trixie has seen them together before. It's strange, don't you think?"

>Trixie spreads a bit of peanut butter over a few crackers and snacks quickly

"My little sister has always been rather mysterious. Her being the night, her goals and intentions are somewhat hidden at times."

>You sigh as you think about your sister's way

>There is a moment of uncomfortable stillness before Trixie begins

>"Well, the Great and Powerful Trixie admits that his magic is alright."

>You lift a curious eyebrow at the comment

"Magic? Anonymous cannot perform magic."

>"Of course he can! He used multiple spells before. I have seen him."

>You rub your chin and contemplate

>Has Luna been able to teach him magic?

>A sudden noise breaks your train of thought as the maid from early enters the hall

>She approaches you with shifting eyes and a nervous sort of voice rings out

>"Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and the um, guest... they will both be coming shortly for breakfast."

>Your eyes perk up at this information

>It would be lovely to have a meal with your sister, however, you are sure she will insist on having Sir Anonymous around

>The maid skitters about and you wonder what would have her nerves on edge

"Please, little one, what has you so concerned?"

>"Hmm? Oh, nothing! Ha ha, yes, I am just... I need to clean the rooms! I'll be off now..., thank you, Princess."

>The maid canters off as you turn back to the chef

>He quickly smiles and dashes off to the kitchen to retrieve more food

>You wait a bit longer, chatting with Trixie about otherwise mundane topics, until the hall doors open wide

>In step Anonymous, with all his usual ceremony and pomp as he announces the arrival of Princess Luna

>It is something he has always done and you were never certain if your sister had trained him for it

"Dear sister, so good that you could make it! please, sit and eat with me on this fine morning."

>Luna genuinely smiles to you as she takes up her seat adjacent to your own

>Anonymous stands just behind her and off to one wing with his hands tucked as neatly as he can behind his back

>Trixie shifts in her seat once more while staring at Luna and then to Anonymous

"How was the night, dear sister?"

>"Glorious as ever! We have been practicing our stars with utmost care."

>Luna smiles and takes up a few pastries

>"It is good to be home again... we have missed thee dearly, sister."

"As I have you. Tell me, do you wish to celebrate Night Mare Night with the denizens of Ponyville this year? It is sudden and you are not required to go."

>"Oh, verily! We cannot feel anything but joy for this opportunity. We have missed our ponies and our duties greatly. Sir Anonymous has been helping us study to better assimilate with this new age."

>You smirk and speak through your teeth

"Has he now? What have you learned thus far?"

>Luna sits tall and clears her throat

>"I have learned how best to greet the royal subjects in a manner they are most accustomed to. With Anonymous by my side, I will surely win over the crowd and they will once again shower admiration upon the whole of our rule."

>You are surprised to see how quickly your sister catches on

"Excellent work in controlling your voice. I was concerned for the moment, to be honest."

>You relax as your meal begins to settle in and watch your sister eat

>Anonymous does not take a seat or eat as he stands by Luna

"Would you like to have some food as well? There is plenty to go around."

>You keep your tone civil as you gesture to some pastries

>"Much obliged, Princess Celestia."

>He sits quickly with all the dignity one can on two legs and seems to approve of you for some reason or another

"I have heard some interesting things about you, Sir Anonymous."

>He smiles in his easy manner

>"We do hope our name was used by those our name would benefit?"

"You could put it that way. I am curious though. I hear that you can control magic to some degree. Is that true?"

>Luna swallows hard before quickly reaching for a drink

>"Magic? Nothing of the sort, dear empress! Thou knoweth we possess no such gift, save for the steel so expertly imparted upon us by thee."

>You smirk at Sir Anonymous with more intrigue than anything other

>Trixie speaks up quickly

>"You do so have magic! That feather and candle you carry around! The Great and Powerful Trixie saw you use it!"

>Trixie casts her hoof over the table and points accusingly towards Anonymous

>To your surprise, Anonymous reaches into his coat and draws out the two objects Trixie spoke of

>You are not entirely sure what they are and find yourself looking to Luna for answers

"Artefacts, perhaps?"

>"Relics of the past, dearest sister. We had discovered such objects could have immediate effects on our enemies of the era. They survived time through Anonymous."

>You are curious as to why Luna had not briefed you on such items before

"What are their effects of these items? I presume you haven't been using them on my ponies?"

>Luna smiles and nods her head

>"Never hold such an idea that we would place our subjects in harm. These items were enchanted to allow Anonymous to better cope with his surrounds..."

"In times of war. We live in an age of peace now, dear Luna. We have no need for such weapons."

>Anonymous clears his throat quickly

>"Our Princess of the Sun is correct, we need not such measures to deal with the population of the day. We fear we liveth out of time and space when we retrieve such tools."

>Anonymous surrenders his objects quickly to you

>It seems uncharacteristically simple of him to just give you his tools of his trade

>You collect them up and look him over

>He does not look different, but you cannot be sure

>You scrutinize the objects as they float before you

>Their magical bonding is tenuous at best and you cannot truly see why Sir Anonymous would need them to begin with

>A servant approaches you with a small tray and you lay the items carefully down

>You instruct them to bring the items to the library for now

>Trixie sighs and slumps slightly in place

>"The Great and Powerful Trixie still demands an apology!"

>All eyes are on the sky-blue mare and she quickly sits up straight

>You are unsure of Trixie's meaning

>Luna sets her gaze on Anonymous quickly and nods lightly

>An exasperated sigh slips from Anonymous' lips before her bows his head

>"We apologize..."

>A smirk crosses Trixie's face and she holds her nose up in triumph

>You shake your head at the two, but smile all the same

>Luna holds a hoof to her mouth as politely as one can

>"Mayhap, Sir Anonymous acts coarse from time to time. It is but the shell of a tortoise with which he hides."

>Your sister smiles to him while he grimaces at her words

>She lifts a bit of muffin in her magic and coyly stuffs it into his mouth before giggling

>You pretend it doesn't disgust you to see her fawning over him

>You excuse yourself from breakfast as the day wanes and you realize you have plenty to do

>Luna and her pet give their farewells and the mare known as Trixie thanks you dearly

 

>Be Twilight Sparkle

>Today is an exciting day as you board the train to Canterlot

>Tomorrow is Nightmare Night and you promised to meet Anonymous before then

>Most importantly, you will be able to see your mentor while you visit

>She will be so surprised and happy, you think, and she will want to discuss all your have learned so far

>You smile to yourself as you think about how great it will be with your dear Princess again

 

>In Princess Luna's chambers

>Be Anonymous

>You tuck in your beloved Princess as she winds down for a nap

>A yawn escapes you, but you would first see if Princess Celestia needs anything

>Never let it be said that you would favour any one Princess over the other!

>You look over the near-sleeping form of you empress before leaving her with a delicate kiss upon her horn

>With ease, you leave her room and close the door carefully as to not make a sound

>You begin your pacing through the halls until you arrive at the throne

>Princess Celestia is sitting atop with her usual majesty while servants and scribes buzz around her like honeybees to their queen

>The efficiency makes you smile as you approach

"Our Princess of the Sun! Dost thou require our assistance?"

>You bow to one knee and smile at the floor

>All eyes are upon you for the moment as the servants size you up

>You hear muddled whispers amongst the crowd before Celestia finally breaks the silence

>"In fact, I do, Anonymous..."

>Celestia climbs from her cushioned throne and strides to one side of you

>"... Come, walk with me, Sir Anonymous. I have a few topics I would like your help with."

>You stand tall and do as your Princess asks

>Celestia is quiet for the moment until the other ponies are far enough for her liking

>You both enter the hall dedicated to Starswirl the Bearded when Celestia begins

>"Anonymous... those items you have given me, they were made from Luna's magic. Why did she first create them for you?"

"Our Empress had said not why, but that we should use them for our nation's ends."

>"I see... hmm. Now, another interesting thing I have noticed. My sister's power is rapidly rebuilding since you have spent time with her. Why do you think that may be?"

"We know not either. 'Tis well that our Princess of the Night regains her strength, correct?"

>"Correct... A little birdie told me something interesting. Apparently, -you- were in Luna's bedroom this morning?"

"We were discussing passing fancies of times long forgotten as well as practicing for Night Mare's Eve, dear Princess."

>"I see..."

>You feel magic catch you by the nape and you quickly freeze in place

>"I think there was more to it than that..."

"Princess, I..."

>"Along time ago, I made a grave mistake and hurt my sister over you. I have had time to think, to plan. There is no way for me to stop my sister and she appears happy with you... for now. But, mark my words, Anonymous. If you -ever- hurt..."

>A voice rings out into the hall that makes Celestia's mane stand on end

>"Princess Celestia! I've been looking all over for you!"

>You turn to see the unicorn Twilight Sparkle racing towards the two of you with a wide smile on her face and stars in her eyes

>She quickly latches to the Princess' leg and hugs her as if they have been parted for years

>With Celestia distracted, her magic fades and you attempt to sneak away with your skin

>"Oh, hey, Anonymous! Like we agreed, I'm here to see how everything's been going with Luna and you!"

>Celestia's face scrunches up as she tries to contain herself

>"Twilight, my dear student, so good to see you."

"Likewise..."

>"So, Anon, how has the training been going? Has Luna picked up on today's language as quickly as you hoped?"

"Y-yes, our Princess is quite good by her learned tongue. Would you not agree?"

>You look to Celestia with a nervous sort of smile and then back to Twilight

>Celestia simply nods before making some distance between you

>"Oh, that's great to hear! Where is Princess Luna now?"

"Asleep in her chambers."

>"Oh, alright, hmm. Did you need anything else since I'm here?"

>You shake your head quickly

>"Well then, what can I help you with?"

"Night Mare Eve, anything, all of it. Now."

>You stare wide-eyed at the Princess with your back nearing the wall

>Twilight does not seem to catch on as she trots easily away

>"Sure thing, Anon, just follow me to the library! Did you know..."

>Her voice does not register in your head as you slide past Celestia and sprint towards the rambling unicorn

>Making your way out into the hallway, you finally take a breath and look to where you have just come from

>The Princess of the Sun is gone before you see where she had moved to

>A fear grips your heart and your spine drips with a chill

>"... And it's been like that for nearly 300 years now, assuming all the context is as accurate as the book implies! And... Anon? Are you paying attention?"

"Hmm? Oh, yes, we are listening..."

>"Good, because we have arrived! Now, if Princess Luna and you have time today, I would suggest stopping by Ponyville to get some nice costumes. Rarity always has great stuff this time of year, but you can always make your own!"

>You scowl at the word for a moment

"Costume? What dost thou imply?"

>"You know? For Nightmare Night? Everyp0ny wears a costume and goes door to door for... candy?"

>Twilight looks up at you with a sincerity you scarcely see

>"You, um... you don't know anything about this new holiday, do you?"

"Please, do elaborate."

>"OK, well, the story goes, and keep in mind that this is a story for little foals, that every year we celebrate Nightmare Night by dressing up as something scary and collecting candy. Then, we lay some candy tribute to Night Mare Moon so she... um, so she doesn't eat us? Eh ha."

>Twilight fidgets in place as she speaks to you and you could display no emotions for what you just heard

"That... is the single most foolish, misguided thing we have had the displeasure to hear! Why? Why would the Princess' subjects ever consider this truth?"

>"Well, it's just been a long time, you see. Stories become legends and make way for superstitions, I suppose."

>You rub your temples in frustration

"The Princess of the Night is not ready to see her subjects in such a manner. We ask of thee to inform them of the proper rituals of veneration."

>"Slight problem... it's kind of... fun."

"What is this, 'fun' thou speaks of?

>Twilight leads you about the library until she comes upon a tome chronicling the last few decades of Ponyville

>She opens to a section of Night Mare Eve from the previous year and shows you coloured photos

>"You know, fun?! It's like... doing something you like because you want to do it? Here, look, this picture is of the Mayor and her assistant."

>You look over the image to see a grey mane mare with a ridiculous white frock and some type of powder on her muzzle

>Standing beside her is another mare with the petals of bruisewort about her head and a green, silken collar about her neck

>You have no idea why anyone would do this

"Let us comprehend this... sight. Ponies dress in the garb of fool's and parade about the night to collect -candy-... and this is, 'fun'?"

>"It makes more sense when you are just doing it..."

"We shall take it in kind. Our Empress must know before we leave tomorrow. We would be devastated had she disappointment."

>"Don't worry, I bet Luna will have fun! You might even enjoy it too."

>This news takes a while to soak in and you hope your dear Princess will take it as well

>Twilight mulls over her book a moment longer before closing it

>"It's going to be fine, I promise. It will be my first Nightmare Night in Ponyville too. We could go together."

>You ponder for the moment before deciding against it

"Respectfully, dearest Twilight Sparkle, we choose to be beside our Princess for this new journey."

>Twilight smiles and nods her head

>"I understand, you two have a -thing- together... You seem to know Luna well enough, she'd probably be happier with you at her side."

>You admire the little unicorn's attention to details

>The two of you proceed from the library and make the trip back towards the main halls

>You pass a few guards who wave to Twilight now and again and you can't help but wonder just how long she lived in the castle

>It is an interesting life, the life of a royal, as you know full well and not all can withstand the pressure associated with it

>"Well, I'm going to visit Princess Celestia and see if she needs anything."

>A wide grin plays across her face as she says the Princess' name

>"Oh, but, lets meet up later! We could work on getting you a costume!"

>You smile and nod, but don't truly intend to dress up like a fool at any rate

>A quick glance at the sun tells you it is noon and you decide a nap is in order

>Your beloved Luna did keep you awake the better part of the night and the impromptu breakfast further extended your groggy state

>Your quarters are just a room from Princess Celestia's, having originally been her faithful servant

>The trip is quick enough for you and you find yourself crossing the towering door of Celestia's own room

>A light shines from within and a curiosity takes hold of you

>You near the door with all the intentions of a thief and gaze in

>Twilight Sparkle is sitting on Celestia's large bed, a smile plays across her face as she speaks of something or other

>The Princess seems to be listening in time, nodding every so often while she draws red ribbon from a dresser

>She approaches Twilight and grins to her and the little unicorn quickly changes expressions to one of bashfulness

>Magic-bound ribbons delicately wrap around Twilight's neck and tie off into a large bow

>You witness Twilight put her hooves behind her back and lay to one side as another red bow ties her up

>You listen intently now

>"Now, my dear student. Did you remember to study that last guide I sent you?"

>"Of course!"

>"Excellent..."

>You see magic part Twilight's legs slowly and she chuckles lightly

>"Princess, do you love me?"

>You hear no answer as Princess Celestia's face readily meets the small unicorn's groin

>Thinking you have seen enough, you creep away and quietly enter your quarters

>You lay prone upon your bed, thanking the heavens for the relief as you slip off into slumber

 

>In a beautiful meadow in some far away land

>You are Anonymous the Earth Pony

>The sunshine feels wondrous on your dark coat as you make your way about the field, picking flower after delicate flower

>You casually gather a few bundles before walking to a clearing

>A checkered blanket of white and green lays upon the grass

>You take a seat and dump your haul onto the blanket

>Each flower is carefully assorted by the length of the stem and stacked neatly in front of you

>A wind shifts and blows south as a large cloud begins to roll in

>You watch the sun obscure behind the mass and a bolt of lightning catches your eye

>The harsh crack of scorching earth rings out before Princess Luna stands before you

>"Anonymous... already we find you here? 'Tis unlike thou."

"We are in our happy place, Empress."

>"Surely, there is better ways to preoccupy one's self than counting petals in this meadow?"

"Ah, it may be so. 'Tis a strange diversion, we are certain, yet it makes us feel... secure."

>"We always worry when thou performs this task. This dream... it is unhealthy for our kindly vassal."

>A loud sound echoes from far away, or very near, you are not quite sure

"Why? What will happen?"

>You stare at your beautiful Princess, but her face is uneasy

>A smile parts your face as you brandish a flower in your mouth

>It is a pure white lily and you smile around the stem as you attempt to pass it to Luna

>"Oh... Anonymous..."

>She simply sinks her head at your gesture and you cannot help but frown

>The smell of fire suddenly catches your attention as you look out into the field

>All the flowers you had left behind are engulfed by a rolling blaze

>It seems to be rushing towards you at an alarming pace and you set to your hooves

"Make haste, dear Princess!"

>You begin to gallop with all your might away until you notice Luna has not moved

>"Please! Come with us! We wish to keep you from harm!"

>She shakes her head again as you turn about and race for her

"Please, dearest Princess!"

>You reach her as the flame licks away at the blanket and quickly take hold

>"Anonymous, the flames are not the enemy."

>What madness has taken hold of your Princess, you know not

>You quickly run with Luna propped on your back for a dozen yards until you come to the edge of a steep cliff

>Your breathing quickens as the fire approaches

"Dearest Princess, dearest Luna! Please, fly away! Leave this one!"

>She looks at you with emotionless eyes and her head sinks to one side

>You beg your Princess to take flight and save her precious life, but she continues to lay upon your back

>The fire reaches your hooves and you feel the heat begin to surge around you

>"It is not too late, Anonymous..."

>You watch as the fire begins to consume your body

>It lashes out at Luna only to shrink back down

>"Do not give into fear... do not let hatred sway thee..."

>You cannot speak nor breathe as the fire crawls into your mouth

>A chocking, burning cough leaves your throat as the flames burn inside and out

"Lu... na..."

>You fall to the ground before feeling a soothing cold radiate from your flank

>Luna's hoof is upon you and her magic passes over you

>The coolness enters your very being and begins to radiate outward from your chest

>Lifting yourself back up, you find the meadow is a molten wasteland now

>Every flower has been burned to cinder and you look up to your Princess

>"Do not allow such anger to control you! Do you hear us?!"

"We... we do not understand..."

>Luna's hoof presses sharply into your chest and you feel a deep cold at your heart

>"Still the fires lest thee be consumed by thy own malevolence!"

"We hate none!"

>"'Tis a lie..."

>Luna looks to the horizon and you follow her gaze

>Far into the distance, beyond the burning fields, there stands a white silhouette that shines like the sun

>It rears back on two legs and spreads its blazing wings as the fires grow higher

"We... we hate... one."

>"Release these feelings from thy heart..."

>Luna pulls her hoof from you

>You feel the burning, painful twisting of fire course through your insides again as a flame belches from your throat

>The agony of it all sends you to your knees once more

>"... Or suffer a life of retribution."

>The Princess takes you in her magic and rises slowly into the heavens

>Your body begins to cool again as she holds you closer to her chest

>A heartbeat catches your attention as you stare up

>She is holding you so tightly that you feel as protected as a newborn would with its mother

>There is a sense of wholeness in the world when you are like this and you smile

"Princess... stay the night?"

>"We shall..."

>You close your eyes as your body rests on a cloud and Luna curls along side

>Her cool body near your own is perfect

>As tiredness takes you and your eyes begin to close, you hear the voice of your beloved Luna

>"... Always and forever."

 

>Several hours later

>Be Twilight Sparkle

>You bid farewell to Princess Celestia as the last of the ribbons come undone

>Your legs are a little sore, both front and back, from the "lesson" today

>A content sigh slips from your lips as you think about how much you needed this

>Celestia is always so good to you and you hope you were good enough for her

>You really have been studying a lot, but practice makes perfect!

>The sun is nearly touching the horizon as you glance out a window and you consider finding Anonymous

>A quick trip around the castle finds you back at Celestia's room

"His room's right next to the Princess? I use to sleep on the other side of the hall! So lucky..."

>You turn the handle easily and step inside cautiously

"Hey, Anon! Are you around...?"

>A sleeping form takes up residence on a fair sized bed and you notice articles of clothing are resting on a nearby table

>Anonymous' room is kind of simple, you think, with no real glamour as Princess Celestia's room holds

>You would dare say it were barren!

>Gliding across the small room, you stealthily make your way to the lump in the covers

>A small push of your hoof causes Anon to groan lightly

>You whisper to the bed quickly

"Anon... are you awake?"

>There is no immediate reply, so you tug his blankets with a bit of magic

>The quilts fall to one side and expose a human leg

>It is oddly muscular and strangely proportioned, yet something about it makes you want to touch it

>You look over Anon's leg one more time before slowly reaching a hoof out and pressing against him

>It's softer than you would expect, though you don't know why you think Anon would be made of stone

>The though makes you chuckle a bit before Anon's leg twitches

>Your hoof retracts in time for him to roll over and cast the remaining bit of blanket from himself

>For the moment, Anon's body is exposed to you and you shield your eyes

>A curiosity takes hold of you and you cannot stop yourself from peaking

>Before you lies the form of the human know as Anonymous

>You've never seen a human without its clothes on before

>This could be some kind of biology lesson and any lesson is a good lesson!

>Anonymous' body is oddly built with muscle and scar tissue

>You see a large puncture wound in his abdominal area and wonder if it is normal for humans to survive something like that

>These scars look very old and you consider they must have been made during the Dragon Wars

>It is amazing to think that Anon would stare down dragons in his time and even risk being impaled

>You are glad the world today is much more peaceful

>As you enjoy measuring and cataloging scars, your eyes work their way down a bit and see Anon's maleness

>A hushed tone of sheer scientific inquiry escapes you

"He probably wouldn't mind me looking... it's for my studies after all..."

>His flesh is mostly hairless, save for choice parts, and the shape is fairly reasonable

>You have never been this close to a real life example of male parts, though your years of studying have given you ample reference

>With bated breath, you slowly take hold of Anon's member in your magic

>It should, if you have read correctly, expand if stimulated and this is as good a chance as any to see the truth in this matter

>You swallow a dry lump in your throat as you move extremely carefully against the smooth skin

>Anonymous mumbles something, but you are sure he is still in his own dream world

>The effort pays off in no time at all as Anon stands firm in your magical grip with the most textbook example of an erection you have ever seen

>You are fairly pleased, both with Anon's cooperation and at your own skill

>In this new state, this erect state, Anonymous measures a simple seven inches long and about an inch and one-half in diameter

>Not entirely impressive by pony standards, but you consider the results skewed if you had to place different species against each other

>In your calculated daydream, you fail to notice Anon's abdominal muscles stir

>"M'lady? Dost thou come upon wings in the night..."

>His eyes narrow as he focuses on you

>Too frightened to run, you stand before Anon with your jaw clenching tightly

"Oh... h-hey, Anon... funny story..."

>"Twilight... Sparkle? What endeavor dost thou wish to make herein?"

"Endeavor? Oh, no no no! You got it all wrong. This was for study!"

>For some unknown reason, you do not let your magic fade from Anon as he stares into your eyes

>"'Tis a most interesting study... We wish no charity from thee, however!"

>His voice rings in your head as it lifts a bit

"I-I was going to wake you up so we could go see how the decorations were coming. You know? For Nightmare Night?"

>"Commendable... how did this event transpire?"

"Well, you see..."

>A hand reaches out and flicks your horn quickly

>Your magic wanes as the strike resonates into your head and you lose your concentration

>"Thank thee for such a kind awakening. Thou would find it less arduous with a simple pale of water..."

>What does a pony say at a time like this?

>What do you do to take the sting of this embarrassment away?

"It feels like you'd be an excellent specimen for breeding."

>Your words echo back into your own ears as they fall from your mouth like so much gravel

>"We... we think it best to be left to dress in peace..."

>He looks at you quickly and then to the door

>You feel your face flush with humiliation as you gallop for the hallway and slam the door behind you

"Stupid, stupid, stupid! What are you thinking! Are you crazy?!"

>You mutter loudly to yourself as you pace back and forth

>It isn't long before Anonymous steps out of his room and looks over to you

>"We are ready... art thou?"

"Y-yeah, lets head to the station..."

>With crimson red cheeks, you lead Anonymous through the halls and out the main entrance

>Stepping out into the cool night helps to relieve your burning face

"Alright, OK... so, lets head over to the station. Trains will only run twice at night."

>"'Tis not too far a trip. The sun shines still in the lower heavens, we should find ourselves in good time."

>You worry about Anon's ability to keep coherent for the ponies back in Ponyville

>There's only one way to find out

>As you arrive at the train station, you begin your drill

"Alright, Anonymous, lets practice what you've been studying since you have been with Princess Luna."

>He looks to you with a hint of amusement on his face before smiling

>"Dearest Twilight, I would be happy to take up your offer."

"Excellent, now, how was your day?"

>"T'was a fine day, indeed."

"Alright, not bad. I'll let you slide with that, 't'was' this time."

>"M'lady Sparkle is all too kind to me..."

>He smirks and reclines on the small bench while staring off into space

>You try to follow his gaze through the darkening sky until you see the faintest glimmer of the moon on the horizon

>As if by some unforeseen magic, he matches the moon's rise perfectly and you find yourself wondering about Anon for the first time

"Anonymous, you wouldn't mind if I ask you more personal questions, would you?"

>"An interesting question per se... What would you care to learn?"

"I noticed you had a large scar on your abdominal section, right lower quadrant, how did that happen?"

>"Ah, magnificent night that was! I had been sent to collect intelligence on an enemy masquerading as a follower at the Temple of the Moon. Dragon magic is rather potent, but dragon claws strike harsher blows."

>You listen carefully, grinding each phrase down into meaning

>"The wound you saw was a grievous one and I would surely be dead this day if not for an associate's quick medical knowledge. Both our Princesses were proud of we two who had braved the beast and lived..."

>His head tilts completely back as he stares at the moon

>A sudden silence takes hold of the platform as Anonymous looks towards the unblinking eye of his Princess

"You really like Luna, don't you?"

>"Like? A careless word, it is. What is it to owe your life to another? In all things I have done, my dearest princess has returned ten-fold to me. Never could my debt be sated if I had a hundred lives to give."

>Anonymous' eyes return to you and his stoic smile parts his face with a bit of determination

>"But, I ramble... how have you been, student of the Sun?"

>You chuckle at the title softly

"Oh, nothing really exciting. I finished my Nightmare Night costume! I'm going as Starswirl the Bearded."

>"Forgive my ignorance, but why would you dress as a stallion? Furthermore, why would you dress a stallion so profoundly cantankerous that no single being would choose to stand beside him if they did not absolutely have too?"

>A smile parts your face as Anon speaks and you press him quickly for information

"You knew Starswirl? -The- Starswirl?"

>"Yes, he was an angry fool when I knew of him. Always ranting about incompetence and how he had to work with such foolish ponies..."

>Your heart sinks a bit at this revelation

>Who would have thought that such a powerful and noteworthy pony would be so difficult to work with!

>Anonymous looks you over for the moment before crossing his arms over his chest

>"Well, I mean... that is only what I had -heard-. Maybe he was truly a kind pony..."

>He turns his face from you and you get a feeling that he's not being entirely honest

>You feel as if Anonymous does not think you can handle such news, but you are too educated to simply write off somep0ny without first getting to know them

>Another question pops into your head as the sound of a loud whistle drowns out your voice

>The train finally arrives and Anonymous is the first to reach the doors

>You trail slightly behind him as the doors open and a few passenger step off

>"From the glint in your young eyes, I can sense you have more questions for me?"

>You nod as you board the train and try to look at mature as you can

"I do and don't think you have to spare details or hide facts that would hurt my feelings. I am a big pony and I can handle the truth."

>You beam with purpose as you sit beside Anon

>He sighs lightly and places a hand to his head

>"We do not believe thou should be made to bear such burdens. If thou would truly wish to know, however..."

>You feel a warm something run from your head to your shoulders and look over to Anonymous

"Um, excuse me, Anon! P-personal space, remember?"

>"Ah, yes, we remember, yet find it flawed in practice. It was not we who did so invade the bed chamber..."

>He smiles widely to you now as his hand pets you again

>The feeling isn't bad, but you're just not use to having other ponies, or humans for that matter, touching you like this

>"We have a tale of a younger Princess of the Sun and her first attempt at swimming... if it would please m'lady?"

>You look up to him for the moment

"I bet the Princess was an excellent swimmer..."

>He strokes down your mane once more with a toothy grin on his face

>"Dearest Twilight, 'tis a fool's bet indeed."

>Anon begins his story and you lay against the bench

>You are lucky, you think, to have a first-hoof account of the past, even if it does show just how normal ponies of legend truly are