> It's that strange looking Lunar Guard!
> Night Tide, was it?
> You can't see him but you are able to match that face to the voice any day.
> "Be gone Lunar freak!" The voice of the pegasus barks towards Night Tide.
> You hear no response from him as  laughter erupts from the pegasus, "Is that all it takes to scare off a Night Guard? He retreated! That Bat Abomination! "
> His disrespectful words add to your growing anger.
> Your eyes fix to the hooded enemy infront of you.
> He's too close for comfort at this point.
> You kick towards him with one leg keeping him just out of reach of you.
> You need to keep that blade of his at a distance as well.
> A quick glance shows that the weapon isnt under his hood anymore though..
> Perhaps it's concealed.
> Seeing you're kicking, the pegasus gives you a yank that brings you even closer to leaning out of the moving train.
> While you scramble to find something to hold on to, you feel two hooves plant them selves roughly onto your chest, pushing you towards the opening.
> The wind from the broken glass makes his hood wave, still casting a dark shadow across the majority of his features, and at this distance you can see a dim red glow coming from under the cloak.
> "All hail the mighty beast, Prince Anonymous..." The flapping cloak reveals an orangeish muzzle bearing a toothy crazed grin.
> Before speaking again you notice him look over your shoulder.
> Grunting with frustration he pushes off of you violently causing some broken glass to cut into your back.
> The sound of wings flapping through heavy winds enters your ears for a brief moment before the cry of anger fills them " Raaaah!"
> You feel a great impact, as two bodies crash into your back and head that sends you into the middle of the cabin face down.
> Your lungs begin to desperately fill with precious air as the tension around your neck is no more.
> Almost gulping deep lung full after lung full, clarity begins to find its self back to you.
 
> A clarity of Night Tide fighting with an unknown cloaked pegasus.
> Trading strike after strike, rolling across the floor.
> The wing span that emerges from the cloak is a pale blue and some bright yellow and light orange mane and tail can be seen through the now tattered cloak.
> Toil is still back in the corner where he was thrown.
> He must be terrified, not offering a hoof to help.
> Strange..
> He did before..
> A quick survey of the room, while on your hands and knees, suggests the hooded one that was once infront of you has made a run for it.
> You turn to Night Tide again, vision still adjusting, and notice he is fighting from his back with the pegasus dropping heavy hooves down.
> He didn't enter very elegantly, opting to ram into the pegasus which was probably to his disadvantage.
> Chances are his armor soaked up most of that impact though.
> Never the less he was still delivering up punches that kept the pegasus from fully overpowering him on the floor.
> Abruptly, you attempt to stand to come to his aid.
> As you begin to stand the sway of the train accompanied by your own dizziness sends you back to your hands and knees.
> You try to draw long deep breaths to stabilize yourself.
> The sounds of struggle make it difficult.
> The lavender armor of Night Tide clanks with every attempt to get back up as he fends off his attacker who keeps him on the ground.
> Turning your head you notice at some point his helmet was knocked off, as it laid on the floor closer to the window.
> He was using his bat like wings along with his fore hooves to parry and counter the onslaught from the crazed pegasus who's hood now fell back to his shoulders.
> A messy bright yellow and light orange mane fully visibly now, and a pair of round glass lensed goggles covered his eyes.
 
> Holding a hoof down after a parried strike, Night Tide was able to drag the sharp end of his wing across the face of the pegasus adorning it with a fresh slice.
> "Gah! Bat freak! Who do you think you are!" The pegasus rants after flinching, as he lands a solid hoof into Night Tide's face.
> It causes his head to snap to the side visibly dazed, yet he keeps up an attempt at a guard, forelegs up readying to counter.
> Another damaging blow passes his guard causing his head to ricochet from the floor.
> His forelegs reach desperately up clinching around his opponents neck, squeezing his head to his armored chest with a growl.
> With his foe's onslaught paused, Night Tide's head turns to the side taking deep open mouthed recovering breaths.
> 'Stand...'
> You try once more but falter unable to balance,  falling foward back on all fours.
> 'Stand Anonymous...'
I can't.. I can't breathe.
> 'We are speaking... Then we can breathe. Or will we watch another comrade become a victim of YOUR weakness..'
> The blame he just placed on you.
> The guilt...
> As infuriated as you are by it, it begins to bring you to your feet.
> You stand unsteady noticing Night Tide holding onto the pegasus by the back of the neck, against his own chest.
> His deep breaths spray some blood that comes steadily from his nose and mouth. 
> 'Kill that pegasus...' His voice calmly states.
"What?!." You say out loud to yourself, stiffening a little, shocked at the thought.
> 'He held no qualms about killing us. He is our enemy who even now assaults your ally.' He tries to convince you.
> Thinking it over, you suppose he's right.
> Not that you intended to let him get away or anything..
> But kill?..
> Your mind reserved that fate for only one at this point.
 
> You stagger slightly maintaining an unsteady balance.
> 'KILL...HIM..' Sombra's malign bass voice echos repeatedly in your mind influencing your own conscious.
> " You filthy creature!" The pegasus struggles against Night Tide's lock. "I guess you filthy beasts stick together, huh?!" His now hoarse voice mocks.
> "The beast -pant- you speak of is -pant- A Prince you traitorous fool!" Night Tide offers his exhausted defense.
> "And you are what? His freak body guard? Haha!" He begins to slip from the hold, his own blood assisting in the ability to do so.
> Night Tide growls with failing effort to maintain his hold.
> 'Kill him' repeats and overlaps in your conscious
> Multiple demanding whispers flood your mind over powering your own thoughts.
> You feel your hand involuntarily move to your back pocket.
> The pegasus continues to slip out of the hold of Night Tide, nearly free.
> Your hand finds the cold metal grip of the reason of your departure from the cabin.
> An old fashioned, ornate cork screw, that your friend Toil forgot to provide.
> Your fingers find their way through the metal loop of it as you take a step towards the pegasus, who's head snaps back, free from the hold of Night Tide.
> " That's the best a Lunar Guard has? How did you gather that you could protect your abomination of a Prince, freak?" His tone, condescending.
> Freak... Beast... Abomination...
> The pegasus leans back ready to drop another heavy blow with an arrogant expression of dominance.
> Your hand reaches to the back of the pegasus's mane grabbing it violently yanking his head back so he faces the celing.
> He let's out a surprised yelp as he loses his balance leaning back.
 
"We could kill you right now and be perfectly justified in doing so, you piece of trash.." a strange voice escapes your mouth.
> The point of the corkscrew drags along the vulnerable soft flesh and fur of his neck making a faint dragging sound.
> "G-go on then. Prove us right animal.." Though his voice wavered, there was still a confidence behind it.
"Who exactly is 'us'..." you hold the point harder into his neck causing him to close his eyes readying himself for his fate.
> " You know exactly who.."
> With that he forces his own head into the direction you pull, head butting you.
> You stagger for a moment as he scrambles to his hooves a little dazed himself.
> Realizing he is out numbered he gives his wings a few flaps which raise his hooves from the floor.
> "That coward left me huh?" He says angrily to himself quickly scanning the room.
> "hmph" he turns to make a break for the broken window.
> " No you don't! " Night Tide rises just high enough to catch the Pegasus by the tail with his teeth.
> "yeoww! LET GO FREAK!" He continues to try to flap away.
> Your chest tightens at the word as you reach forward after gaining your bearings.
> 'If you don't kill him now, he will kill you later... Or worse, somepony else you care about... Apple Jack.. Granny Smith... Apple Bloom...' He methodically runs down the names.
> Your eyes widen and begin to burn at the realization.
> They tried to kill you already and others got hurt as a result, ones you love.
"We won't let you.." You grunt as you grasp his tail above where Night Tide holds it.
 
> The pegasus desperately flaps towards the window kicking with his back legs trying to free himself, noticing that you hold the corkscrew as if it were brass knuckles, point out.
> He must be a talented flyer since between the both of you, you still have a hard time holding him back.
> "let me go Beast!" His voice turns to desperation and his face of fear as he glances back at you.
> " No, no!" He panicks looking at metal in your hand.
> You feel a toothy grin creep over your mouth as you pull him in slowly closer to you with your free hand.
> The pain in your head and eyes are masked by a surging adrenaline and anticipation.
> An anticipation of sweet revenge.
"We don't care if this makes you, or any pony else 'right'.." a bass growl escapes you.
"We're going to enjoy this..." Your grin turns to a sharp toothed smile.
> This causes his irises to narrow to pin points under his glass lensed goggles, terror painted on his face.
> Even Night Tide's eyes turn to you for a moment as he faithfully held on to his opponents tail with teeth clenched.
> Finally.. some pony will pay.
> Bringing your clenched tail filled fist towards your chest, you catch a few desperate rear kicks that fall onto your numb body.
> Your monstrous eyes widen staring at your target.
> Kick after kick fall with the feeling of light pats onto your mid section.
> "N-No! Please!" The sound of sheer desperation begins to amuse you.
 
> 'Do it!' The voice was like a shove.
> The final nudge causes your arm to raise, corkscrew in fist.
> With a grunt you plunge your weapon of opportunity in a twisting punch motion between the wing bases of the frantic pegasus.
> The twist in your punch assists the screw end to bury deep into your foe's back, spinning into his very flesh and muscles that allow his wings to flap.
> The shriek released by him falls onto your deaf ears, nothing more than a background muffled sound, as you feel a chilling sick sense of satisfaction run throughout your body.
> An ecstacy like you have never felt before.
> A thrill..
> Vengeance.
> Power.
> Dominance.
> After a few awkward pained flaps, the pegasus falls to the floor face first, wings limp, trembling... crying..
 
> Through heavy sobs the pegasus lays stomach down face buried in his hooves and floor.
> He weeps dramatically like a filly..
> How pathetic for one who just tied to end you..
> You maintain your grip and pressure on the handle, applying enough force down to keep him in place.
> "Uhhhgggg -sob-" he let's out a groan in pain between his tearful outbursts.
> His goggles slipped up to his forehead while he rubbed his face into his own hooves and floor remaining in still agony.
> Tears and mucousy snot rolled from his face while he trembled.
> It must be more than pain inflicting him right now.
> You may have very well taken something very precious from him with this attack.
> His wings twitch sporadically, but over all lie limp, outstretched to his sides.
> Your expression doesn't flinch at his suffering.
> The same sharp tooth smile and widened beastly eyes stare down upon him.
> Your fierce red irises fixed on the point of entry from the corkscrew, and the crimson it draws into his pale blue coat.
> He doesn't offer any struggle, afraid to move and worsen the pain and damage.
"Tell me your name traitor..."
> Night Tide glances at you once more maintaining an indifferent expression, but his body language and glances suggests confusion at the dual tone that escapes your mouth.
> He responds after a shaky inhale and sob, "...L-Lightning Streak... -sniff-"
 
"Lightning Streak.." you say calmly, "Who was your little friend who ran away? Hmm?" You sound almost comforting as you hold the piece of metal down in his body.
> He closed mouth whines and hiccups before answering, "i.. I cant.." his hysteria increases on its own knowing what that answers means for him.
" No?.. You cant?.. Most unfortunate.." Your dual tone sounding pseudo sympathetic.
"You do know what happens next if you cant... remember.."
> " P-pleaassee.. I need my wings! They're my life!" He pleads through his hysterics.
"You think I want your wings? All I want is an answer...Or... " Your pressure on the corkscrew increases  as you turn it ever so slightly.
> His body tenses harshly as he let's out another cry, and a wing twitches.
> " ok, OK! -sniffsniff- just p-promise you'll stop!" He cries out into the floor with eyes squeezed shut.
"...Go on..."
> After several more sobs he speaks through a broken voice "Flash... Flash Sentry..."
> That was Flash!?
> In person?!
> And he escaped...
>  A fire begins burn in your chest.
> 'We need composure for the moment...' The voice echos in your consciousness.
> With a small inhale you do your best to relax.
"Any why, pray tell, did you think it would be wise to participate in an attempted assassination of a Prince... not once, but twice.." You gamble on him being involved with the fire.
> "Please I've already~aHHH!" he let's out a yell as you turn slightly more.
" Wrong answer.."
> "He promised me a position of power if he became Prince! -sob- he picked me because I was good enough to fly for the Wonderbolts. I could keep up with this train and vanish quickly if needed." He immediately offers his secrets aloud.
 
> Become a Prince?
> Wonderbolts?
> That would explain his added hysterics at the idea of losing the ability to fly.
> Also his aiding in the attempts to ruin your marriage, reputation at the club you went to and the attempts to end your life.
> ...His successful attempt on two thirds of that anyway...
"I've never seen you fly with them..." you grunt challenging his 'admission'
> " Because I'm a reserve. A backup I don't get the spotlight like Soarin, and....~~"
" You're a second string, "B team"  behind the scenes... Wonderbolt...Out-Standing.. And a hateful little one at that. I believe you owe my friends Night Tide and Toil an apology for some of the... rude things you have said and done.."
> He draws an audibly shaky breath before speaking, "I - I'm. . Sorry. Really I am!"
"That wasn't very convincing, was it Toil?.." Your expression remains unchanged.
> The idea of your utter dominance, your imposing will upon your enemy feeds into a growing sense of satisfaction.
> You glance to Toil though, and your smile drops slightly.
"Toil?.."
> He remains unmoving in the corner, faced away in what you initially assumed was fear.
"Toil.." you say firmly awaiting a response for a moment.
> You gesture to Night Tide to make sure Lightning Streak doesn't move, and once more he obeys faithfully planting a hoof to his back.
> Lightning Streak shifts his eyes from Toil and re buries his face into his hooves with a whine and sob while shifting a little under the hoof that held him down. 
> Night Tide remains looking away with a sence of almost saddeness.
> You approach your unmoving friend, standing over him.
> He sits, rump on the floor in the corner, facing away from the scene slumped over slightly.
> Hesitantly, you reach a hand to his shoulder.
 
> Before you can touch him a shift in the train causes him to move almost like a heavy rag doll towards your hand.
> You catch him, keeping him from falling completely over as you take a knee and behold a sight that halts your very breathing for a moment.
> You have found your hooded opponents blade.
> ...Flash's blade.
> With eyes of disbelief you stare at the golden ornate hilt that jutted from his rib cage near his shoulder.
"No, nooo... no no..." Your words are full of sorrow and shock as you hold a hand near it not knowing what you should do, "You had nothing to do with this.. This isn't happening.." You shake him slightly in disbelief.
"Toil?!? C'mon buddy wake up!"
> Night Tide remains silent, looking slightly away to the floor.
> You glance back to your lavender and midnight blue armored ally, as if desperate for an answer.
> When did this happen?
> Why?
> The weight of guilt begins to crush you from the inside.
> 'Do you understand now?.. ' The tone of "I told you so" fills your mind.
" Shut.. up..." you grunt once more to your self.
> A short moment passes, the only sound in the cabin being the steel wheels on the tracks whining and the sobbing and sniffing from the incapacitated pegasus.
> Running your hand carefully, gently and softly against Toils eye lids, you close his slightly open stare to nothing.
"I'm sorry this happened to you, friend..." you lay him gently on his side as you remove the blade from the other as gentle as possible.
> 'Allow me to do what must be done...' His voice offers in an almost grim comfort.
 
> You hold the blade that was just inside of your friend staring at it for a moment, examining it.
> The reflective non stained portion of the blade causes you to quickly catch a glimpse of your horrid eyes.
> Emotional torment grips you as you recall Toil showing you in the same manner with his serving tray.
> 'I will be your strength to do what you can not... To do what must be done Anonymous...We will send him a message...'
> The words enter your mind as you stare blankly at your slaughtered new friend while on your knees.
> The mix of emotions, guilt, sorrow and pain, leaves you feeling lost as as you sence your own self control give way to a feeling of submission.
> Your slight nod is the only response you can offer.
~ ~ ~
> " Attention: The train will be arriving in Canterlot in approximately five minutes please ready your belongings" The conductor comes over the speakers with a generic cheer.
> With a twitch and small gasp your eyes blink several times clearing the burning and dryness of them.
> The wind entering through broken glass lessens as you approach your last stop.
> You hold a glass of red wine in your hand with an open wine bottle beside you next to a corkscrew spun into a cork beside it.
> The bottle beside you, a fine Canterlot Sauvignon.
 
> The train lurches and sways as it slows while the whine of the many steel wheels fall as a distant sound on your ears.
> Only when the movement of the swaying and turbulence die down, and your cabin becomes steady do you notice the trembling in your hands as you stare blankly to the corner of the room.
> Your eyes briefly scan the now empty cabin as quick flashes of memories place images of where every pony once laid in your mind.
> Yet your eyes once more attach to the corner they have been staring at the entire time.
> With your hands still trembling, you raise the delicate glass to your mouth, inhaling the complexity of the wines scent through your nose before taking a small flavorful sip.
> You swirl the contents of it in your mouth briefly before drinking it.
> It's very good...
> But... you were never any good at this etiquette thing..
> With a nod to the empty corner and a small lift of your glass, you tilt the bottom of it towards the celing emptying the rest of it into your mouth.
> Your cheeks puff a little as you hold the glass full in your mouth for a moment before drinking.
> A prolonged sound of exhaust signals the trains final stop.
> " Last stop, Canterlot! Please exit the train! We thank you for riding~~"
> You stop paying attention as you rise from your seat and head towards your exit before looking back once more to the corner.
> Exiting while looking back causes your leg to strike something hard as an "Oof!" sounds from under you.
> You fall foward catching yourself against the wall.
> " M..my apologies Prince Anonymous.. I was careless to take post infront of the door like that." Night Tide anxiously apologizes.
> Which is odd to you
 
> Every interaction you have had with him, he always seemed to be stoic and minimal with his words and expressions.
> "Everything has been taken care of Prince Anonymous.." His stoic features return almost immediately.
> You take a knee to rub your opposite shin that struck his armor.
> Damn that stings.
> When you lower your height you take notice of small healing lacerations on his snout and near his eye.
> He catches you staring at it, "It's nothing Sir, do not concern yourself with it."
" Are you sure? We can get you checked out before anything else. I owe you at the very least that much."
> "I've battled Griffins, and clashed with many of ponies before Prince Anonymous, I assure you this is nothing. Besides sir, Princess Luna should be awaiting your arrival."
> How could she possibly know that you were coming?
" I've been meaning to ask you, how did you even know where I was, and how does she know I'm coming?"
> "I have been asked to keep a distant eye on your well being sir. I was paired with another who went ahead to notify the Princess of your arrival."
~~~~~
> You are Princess Luna
> And you are frantically cleaning your room.
"By the moon and stars, this place is a disaster! " a flustered tone escapes your mouth as you busy yourself straightening up.
> A female, bat winged, Lunar Guard pony, clad in lavender and midnight blue armor stands in the balcony entrance.
> She just informed you that your dear Anonymous is coming to Canterlot..
> Coming here!
> You can't subdue the flutter in your heart from the news.
> Yet you are filled with both extremes of excitement and worry though.
> "I-if.. I may Princess... your room is not a disaster." She politely offers while looking around the room.
> It really isn't, in fact it's mostly barren besides for the simple decorations and ornate wooden furniture. 
> You rather enjoyed the simplicity of it, the darkness it maintained during the day so you could sleep.
 
> You busily clean regardless,  now making your bed.
> Well you try to anyway, somepony else usually does this for you.
> Your horn lights with its aura attempting to straighten sheets which ends up knocking pillows to the floor instead.
> You let out a frustrated sigh as you trot to go pick them up.
> With a quick toss and adjustment your bed is made.
> The plush white blanket lies neatly now across your pillow topped mattress.
"There!" You let out in your accomplished tone.
> The Lunar Guard does her best to stifle a giggle at your outright giddiness.
> You notice, shooting her an embarassed glance, but mostly ignore it.
> There's so much to do!
> Trotting quickly to your vanity mirror you begin to inspect your mane.
> Your excited teal eyes examine every little detail.
> You even catch yourself holding back a growing smile.
> For good measure you grip a brush in your aura and begin to run it through your already immaculate flowing starry mane.
"How long did you say we have?" You ask while brushing nervously away.
> "About 30 minutes until the train arrives, and an hour until he makes it to the castle.. approximately, my Princess"
> An hour!?
> You don't want to wait that long!
"Very well, we shall meet him at the train station."
> "As you wish Princess." She says with a slight bow of her head.
> That will buy you some extra time of distraction to let your sister fall asleep so you could at least enjoy one night with him before the questions start.
> Backing up a few hoof steps from the mirror, you open your wide wing span as far as you can inspecting them as well.
> With a small self reassuring nod you bring them back to your sides.
"Ok.. I think we're ready!"
> 'What is your sister going to say Luna..'
 
> Your excitement deflates slightly at the idea.
> No..no you won't get upset.
> He's come here on his own accord.
> That's a good sign right?
> You catch yourself staring at your own reflection as you have your internal dialogue.
> Your eyes shift to your Guard for a moment.
> She seems unfazed.
> Aegis Dusk.. She's been with you for almost as long as Night Tide.
> They are your two most trusted guards and have probably seen their fair share of your... quirks over time.
> You clear your throat as your composure finds its self back to you.
"Let us go meet the Prince shall we?" Your wide smile and sparkling teal eyes give away your excitement to Aegis.
> She simply smiles back at you and nods, "Of course my Princess."
> With that you approach the balcony with her and lift yourself effortlessly from the ground with a few flaps from your grand wings.
> You extend them fully gliding down a small angle, letting the cool nights air run over your blushing cheeks.
> You haven't seen him in person since.. the hospital incident.
> You didn't feel bad for doing what you did, but you did feel bad that he was upset.
> Oh, you wonder where he'll be staying the night?
> With any luck, maybe with you!
> A giddy smile accompanies your already blushing cheeks.
> 'Control yourself Luna, your acting like a filly'
> Oh shut up.
> A few moments of gliding passes as the train station comes into approaching view.
> As you get closer you see trails of smoke off in the distance.
> It must be his train.
> With him on it.
> Coming here to see you!
"-squee-" you accidentally let out.
> Aegis glances to you while gliding, her sleek wings silently cutting through the wind, "Excited my Princess? "
> She offers a knowing smile.
 
> You do what you can to hide your smile but it's plain as day.
"Yes Aegis, is it that apparent? " you ask almost nervously.
> She offers a warm cheeky smile back at you not saying anything.
> Approaching the station, you both land gently with a few extra flaps from your wings to soften the landing.
> You were always able to speak straight forward with her.
> She lands silently on her hooves before responding, "A little, but on the bright side I haven't seen you smile like that" she motions towards your excited grin " in quite a while, Princess"
> You blush more and look away, towards the empty rails.
"Well Aegis, we haven't had a reason to smile like this for quite a while."
> The moon was risen by you not to long ago as it peaked over the horizon.
> Your night conquering the day painted Canterlot in purple and deep blue hues as the stars began to glimmer above you providing an extra ambiance in addition to the large rising moon casting it's silvery light.
> It is different seeing it all from down here instead of from your high balcony.
> It was almost as if you were part of the scenery instead of just creating it from far away.
> A steely whine perks your ears snapping you out of your train platform view of Canterlot.
> It's here!
> The lead conductors car turns the corner followed by the many other behind it.
> With a prolonged exhaust vent, the train comes to a complete stop.
> Several of the staff come from opening doors and begin to assist passengers off.
> " Thank you for riding with us this fine night we hope to see you again!" They drone on.
> Aegis stands by your side, faithful as ever, scanning the small crowd with her deep amber, slit pupil eyes.
> Ponies continue to exit the train with their belongings in tow taking the occasional glance and deep bow at you.
> You offer little more than a nod of acknowledgment as your attention remains fixed on the train.
 
> Several of the staff reboard it which causes you to scan the length of it even harder, a frown beginning to form on your face.
> Until you see a set of signature fingers grip the open door frame.
> A leg takes a step from the corner before he is fully visible.
> His face, that handsome face.
> He's here!
> You feel your cheeks rise in a full force smile, unable to even hide it slightly. 
"Anonymous!" You let out a short excited yell.
> His head rises to the call of his name.
> He looks shocked initially, and pretty tired.
> He must not have been expecting you so soon.
> But soon after his own smile meets yours as he stands for a second in disbelief with hands on his hips.
> He begins walking over to you, as your heart beats inexplicably quicker.
> He glances to Aegis and several other passing ponies and greets you some what blandly, "Princess Luna, a pleasure to be greeted by~"
> Taking a step closer to close the 'comfortable distance' He left between the both of you, you raise your lips to his cuttting him off with a firm pressed kiss to his lips not caring in the moment of your excitement who saw.
> He reciprocated for a moment before you felt his hands pat your withers.
> Breaking off the embrace you realized that it probably wasn't wise to do that here.
> But you didn't care.
> You both share a smile as you remained only inches from each others faces.
> He stares into your eyes the way that you love.
> His complete attention and interest is on you as his fingers traced from your withers up some of the length of your neck.
> It makes you feel.. wanted.. needed.. loved..
 
> You caught Aegis glance at the both of you once or twice from the corner of your eye, but ignored it.
> "Tide? What in the dark side of the moon happened to you?" Aegis speaks up.
> Night Tide stood faithful as always behind Anon, looking a little bruised cut and swolen.
> "Nothing to concern yourself with Aegis." He gives her a stern glare with his almost matching deep amber eyes, not wanting the attention.
> Noticing that Aegis flinches slightly. "Tide?.. What happened? " you asked genuinely curious leaning past Anon to look.
> He looks away with his mouth open looking for an answer.
> Anon runs his fingers up the side of your cheek and trails it up and around your ear.
> You become weak in the knees at this caress,  "He said it's not a big deal." He turns to Tide, "Nothing he couldn't handle, right?" He grins down to him.
> "Of course, Prince Anonymous." He remains stoic as ever.
> "Maybe we can discuss it later. Perhaps over food and a drink?"
> Leaning into his hand a little with a content smile you respond almost in a trance, "Of course my dear Anonymous. That sounds lovely."
> Aegis and Tide glance quickly between eachother as they dutifully stand beside their respective Prince and Princess.
> Once Tide looks back away Aegis shifts her eyes back to him doing her best to hide the concern for his injuries.
> Biting her lip with a sharp tooth she opts to hold her questions for the moment, as guilt mounts for leaving him alone.
 
~~~
> You are Anon
> And as surprised as you are to see Luna right at your end destination, you are immediately relieved that you don't have to make a trip to the castle with just your injured companion,  Tide.
> You do owe him your life essentially.
> You might have gotten free on your own, or you very well may have been strangled in this very train.
> A pony brushes by you as you stand in a happy relief which caused you to flinch internally.
> Was it another attempt on your life, or just another arrogant bastard in a rush.
> To your relief it was the latter.
> You make your way to Luna maintaining your smile.
> It isn't very difficult as you see how ecstatic she looks.
> You glance quickly behind you noticing Tide in tow at your heels scanning left and right, probably thinking the same thing as you.
> Is there more?...
> Would they try again so soon?
> As you get closer you notice another of Luna's guards standing there.
> You don't recognize her.
> ...Maybe it's best to let you paranoia dictate this.
"Princess Luna, a pleasure to be greeted by~"
> You are cut short by a very welcome firm pressed kiss to your lips that you admittedly return happily for a moment.
> Her actual sweet scent flowing into your nose, and flavor your mouth.
> But this isn't the time or place, especially without having your... affairs in order yet.
> You gently pat her withers with your fingers, leaving them there after.
> She pulled back but you both shared a natural smile looking into her breath taking teal eyes.
> You could look into them all day, they make you skip a breath every time you get lost in them.
> And her smile seems to melt your dire problems away even if just for the moment.
 
> "Tide? What in the dark side of the moon happened to you?" The unknown bat winged pony speaks up. > She seems legitimately concerned which you suppose is a good sign that she wasn't involved.
> Tide stops his scanning shooting her a 'Why would you ask that now' face.
> Luna chimes in "Tide?.. What happened?.."
> After he gets stuck racking his mind for a retort you jump in to help.
> You run your fingers up the side of Lunas cheek and trail it up and around her ear, both genuinely and trying to create a distraction for your guard.
> It seems to work as Luna closes her eyes slightly and let's out a small sigh.
"He said it's not a big deal." You turn to Tide, "Nothing he couldn't handle, right?" You grin down to him.
> He gives you a quick grateful glance.
> He must not be used to withholding things infront of the Princess he served loyally.
> "Of course, Prince Anonymous." He returns to his guard mode.
> Withholding, perhaps not the right word.
> More like waiting for a more appropriate moment.
> Your eyes shift briefly to the many others around.
> You need to get out of here before anything is said.
"Maybe we can discuss it later. Perhaps over food and a drink?"
> Luna leans into your hand as you offer her a continuing caress, "Of course my dear Anonymous. That sounds lovely."
> She needs to know the attempts on your life, it may even endanger her if you're with her.
> But for now you need to leave this area.
> The activity around you keeps you on edge which you are able to mask for the most part.
 
> As all four of you walk away from the crowded area your nerves begin to calm.
> " I have an idea. Tide, Aegis." They stand infront of her snapped to attention.
> She leans down to them and offers whispered instructions.
> They both sharply salute, "Right away Princess" and spread their dark leathery wings taking off.
"What was that about?" You inquire curiously.
> "Just making arrangements, you'll see." She offers you an excited smile.
"A-alright." You were never a huge fan of surprises
> You both walk down the star and moon lit sidewalk as some flickers from cast iron candle lit street lamps assists the lighting.
> Canterlot was alot fancier than Ponyville, which has both its pro's and cons.
> You did enjoy the intimacy Ponyville had to offer,  but you notice there is just so much more here.
> She walks with very little distance between you as nothing is said for a moment while you take a stroll with her.
> She hasn't stopped smiling yet, it's quite adorable.
> You place a hand on her shoulder just past her withers and scratch lightly as you walk.
> She looks back up to you with a high cheeked smile and sparkling eyes as she begins to walk leaning slightly into you.
> Her sigh indicated her approval.
> "We're glad you decided to come visit Anonymous. We didn't know if inviting you here would be to forthcoming of us."
> You're here to visit, among other things.
 
> But you just got here.
> As much as you don't want to dive into the negative, you have to say something soon.
"Ohh.. So 'invading' my dreams every night isnt?" You glance down to her after your sarcastic retort with a confident grin.
> "We..uh..umm.." Her cheeks redden as nervousness grabs her while she tries to stammer up a response.
> You feel tension build in her shoulders as you rest your hand on them
"I'm joking relax!" Your wide smile disarms her as she sighs a small sound of relief.
> Bumping her shoulder into your hip she fronts an angry expression at you as she puffs her cheeks embarrassed.
> Her demeanor, although embarrassed,  has definitely relaxed from the uptight socially awkward Luna you remember.
> Her quirks grow on you the more you see her.
> You really don't want to spoil the moment but she has to know what happened.
" Luna.. I need to ~"
> " We're here! " She cuts you off excitedly almost hopping in place for a moment.
"W-wait. I have to tell you something." You almost plea.
> " Tell us inside!" She cradles her wing behind you walking with you.
> Glancing up you read the sign quickly.
> A fancy script reads 'Griffin's Corner'
> Eh?..
> Another quick glance on a menu posted on a fancy yellowed parchment behind the glass reads 'steaks' with a variety of options.
> Holy... YES!
> She giggles at your slack jawed disbelief and instant excitement as your hand around her brings her in to your side tightly.
> M-maybe it can wait just 1 more minute... then you'll definitely tell her.
 
> You are Luna
> You sit across from your dear Anonymous, with a smile of joy still on your face as you watch his excited eyes scan the menu.
> The idea of meat doesn't bother you as much as most other ponies.
> You have even been known to enjoy a fish dish from time to time.
> Perhaps because you have been around other species that have enjoyed it as well.
> Namely, griffons. 
> It doesn't matter regardless, you're still just happy to be sitting here with him for real.
> At the table..
> Alone..
> Like a date..
> Oh my, does this count as a date?
> Your cheeks hue pink as you feign interest in the menu hoping he doesn't notice.
> Tide and Aegis stand post, one inside of the restaurant entrance and one outside in their respective statuesque form.
> You sent them ahead to make sure the restaurant would remain open since they usually closed around this hour.
> A request they were more than happy to oblige for the Princess.
> The single lit candle on your white linen draped table ads a flickering ambiance in the warmly lit room.
> The place is empty besides for the both of you.
> A lone prim and proper gray coated black maned pony cellist fills the room with heartwarming soft stringed melodies that fill the silence for the moment.
> Her bow draws across the strings with grace, yet manages to make it flow with the speed and precision of a violin at times.
> A griffon wearing a chefs hat with a neatly groomed thin curled mustache approaches, "Good evening my esteemed guests! My name is Gustave Le Grand, owner of Griffon's Corner. I am honored to be serving you both today. May I start you off with anything?"
> He drones on about wine selections and paring recommendations... specials and what not..
> You notice Anonymous begin to lose interest.
> Oh no.
> Is this too much for him?..
 
> "I'm actually ready to order." Anon chimes in before the griffon can finish his droning.
> A little uncouth for the setting, yet it still humors you as you hold a giggle quietly behind a hoof.
> He must not be good in these types of settings or he's just that excited.
> Gustave holds a pained smile at the breach of etiquette, "Very good sir, what might I get for you?"
> "Steak. Porterhouse medium rare" he seems to already be salivating at the idea of it as he almost grunts the order.
> "Indeed... Very good sir.. And for the lovely Princess?" He turns to you resuming his professional demeanor.
> Anon does a quick over exaggerated imitation of Gustav making a silly face and over exaggerated gestures of twirling his mustache while he is turned away.
> You try to keep your composure while facing Gustave.
"We.. will have the lemon baked wild rainbow trout please." A smile cracks through anyhow.
> Anon glances up at you after your order with a 'really?' face.
> "A very fine selection Princess. One of my favorites, might I add" Gustave carries on about more wine suggestions to match your orders which produces another almost annoyed look from Anon.
" W..we'll have whatever you recommend. Thank you." You offer to spare his speech and Anon's ears as you close your menu with a flick of your aura and a polite smile.
> Another server places a small selection of breads infront of you while Gustave bows mildly and takes his leave
> And then it was just you and your dear Anonymous.
> Who is looking around taking in the sight of the restaurant.
> "This is uh.. a nice place" he seems slightly uncomfortable as he inspects his own clothing.
"Do you not like it? " A small sence of worry enters your voice and expression.
> "N-no! It's not like that! I just uh. I'm not, ya know.. dressed appropriately or anything. I'm actually excited to have a steak though.  It's been ages, little miss I'll have the fish." He grins leaning foward towards you a little, elbows on the table.
 
> His grin makes your heart skip a beat as you look to the table top hiding your own embarrassed smile.
> The sound of Gustav approaching draws your eyes back up.
> He holds a white napkin wrapped bottle preparing it for presentation as other servers place fragile ornate wine glasses on your table.
> "A vintage Cantorlet Sauvignon" He begins to pour it into the glasses.
> " My personal favorite, that will complement your steak perfectly sir. " He finishes his flawless pour and sets the bottle and cork down on the table then taking his leave.
> Oh you love Cantorlet Sauvignon!
> You grip your sample pour in you aura and bring the glass to your nose while swirling it.
> The semi sweet aroma is outstanding.
> But when you glance up to Anonymous you notice he sits almost perfectly straight, hands on his lap, staring very intently at the bottle and cork on the table.
" A...Anonymous what's wrong." You prod curiously.
> With several blinks he seems to snap out of it and turn to you with a quiet shaky inhale.
> "W-im sorry what?" He seems to be very anxious.
"Something is bothering you Anonymous. It is very apparent. You can tell us." You attempt to sound as comforting as possible.
> He seems to gulp as he looks back at the bottle.
> " I.. uh.. " He smooths out the immaculate white linen table cloth infront of him keeping his hands busy.
> "Ok.. so.. remember when I said I had something to tell you?" He appears to be searching for correct word usage, the same way you do.
> You nod, doing your best to not display worry.
> But what else can a 'We need to talk' mean?
> Have you done something wrong?
> In the moment of his pause you begin to over analyze every interaction you can recall.
> Oh stars you have waited to long to have ruined something already!
> "So..The train ride in.. Some pony tried to hurt me.. assassinate me.. again.."
"W..What?!" You accidentally project to loud.
> Your self abusive train of though ends abruptly.
 
> The cellist pauses for a moment as she looks up nervously and wide eyed, before setting her bow to the strings and continuing once more.
"What?!...Who? Are you alright? Is that why Tide looks like that?" you repeat in a shocked whispering rant after looking around.
> He holds a hand up at you suggesting that you slow down, "I'm fine, I owe Night Tide my life.. They came after me on the train.. they.." he pauses. "They killed an innocent pony who also tried to help me...A server by the name of Toil.."
> You stare in disbelief.
> Killed?
> How naive have you been?
> You sit in here while a murderer is on the lose!
" Who are 'they' Anonymous. They need to be apprehended at once!" authority laces your words.
> "I think..Flash Sentry, and some of his goons.."
> Your heart drops slightly at the mention of the name.
> The pegasus that destroyed his marriage.
> That in some disgusting guilty sence, you owe for your beloved Anonymous even being infront of you at this moment.
> Had he not done what he did, you would have never had your opportunity to have your feelings known.
"We.. dont understand.  Why him? Why would he be coming after you now." You feign a bit of ignorance knowing full well what Anonymous did to him when he found out about Twilight's little secret.
> "I.. dont know. I have a few ideas but it's not something I want to get into now.. The main thing I wanted to ask is if you could help me make sure my family stays safe. The ones after me were bold enough to still be wearing some Canterlot armor so I don't know who I can trust.. Perhaps some Lunar Guards could help.. He's already hurt Big Mac while trying to get me.." His voice seems to die off at the end of his sentence. 
> After a moment he continues, "I can't even stay with them because I don't want them to be at risk because of me.. I've been staying on couches..floors.. hay piles.. I can't even go back to my own bed.."
> He pauses staring down at the table.
> Your heart aches for him in the moment.
 
> Though you weren't prepared for such a sobering confession you want to help more than ever.
> Motioning to Aegis, she trots over to your table.
> "Yes Princess." She quietly acknowledges her summon.
"Faithful Aegis, We have a task for you. You will assemble a team of several guards and provide security to the Apple family and residence in Ponyville.  Please provide them with any help they need and report back regularly." You lean in closer almost whispering in her ear, "We also want Flash Sentry found. He is responsible for a murder and Tide's injuries. Please do be discreet."
> She offers a sharp salute while trying her best to maintain her stoic expression and exits swiftly.
"And you, my dear Anonymous. You will be staying with us. That is, if you will accept our hospitality. We believe it will be more comfortable than a couch and.. pile of.. hay.. was it?" You keep a smile forced while you mention the hay.
> He seems embarrassed now playing with his own hoo..hands.
> Tensing slightly, you wonder if that came out to demanding.
> You watch his hands fiddle away during his moment of consideration.
> Those hands.. You cant help but to melt into them when he runs them along you..
> His finger tips tracing around your ear.. down your neck..
> "That.. would be great for the time being.. yes thanks Luna."
> Your eyes widen a bit snapping out of your brief daydream.
> Yay!
> Anon will stay with you!
> You hide your internal giddiness with a small smile.
> For the moment the idea of threats, danger, and the imminent disapproval from your sister take a back seat to the idea of at least having one full uninterrupted night with your dear Anonymous.
> After all, he is at the safest place he can be.
> By your side.
 
----
> You are Anon
> And Luna just offered to have you stay with her while ...things.. got sorted out.
> There weren't many other options, not to say this was a bad one.
> She does look adorable right now though as she tries her best, clearly failing, to not look excited.
> You had no idea she had such a girly personality hidden under her usual stuffy proper "thou" this and "thy" that.
> A small smile creeps through your mouth as well watching her.
> Looking to your glass of wine, you try to relax yourself.
> Everything will work out.. you'll make sure of it.
> 'We.. will make sure of it... Do not be so quick to forget Anonymous..'
> You close your eyes for a moment calming yourself.
> Reaching your hand out to the glass, you grip it gently bringing it to your nose.
> The scent, incredible as it is, has a tainted memory of death tied to it.
> You decide to deal with it for the moment extending your glass towards Luna.
"To a... Canterlot sleep over?" You offer a goofy smile.
> Her light blue aura lifts her glass to yours as she locks eyes with you.
> A gentle smile crosses her face, "And justice for the Prince."
> Your glasses clink gently.
> She takes a sip from hers and releases a quiet happy sigh.
> You bring yours to your mouth, but can't quite get yourself to drink it.
> The closer you get to doing it the more your stomach churns.
> You decide to place it down before she notices.
"You know I don't like being called that. Especially if it might not even be my title much longer."
> She raises an eyebrow at you placing her glass down.
> Oh shit..
> You haven't told her yet.
 
"Oh.. uh ya. The other part of my visit is to umm. Get my divorce... started. I'm not quite sure how that happens here." You rub the back of her head, mildly uncomfortable.
> She displays mixed signals of sadness of your situation, and probably excitement for her own opportunity.
> Yet she manages to speak, "Well we are once more sorry it has come that, but would be lying if we did not say we look foward to the chance to perhaps spend more time together? "
> You would be lying if you said otherwise as well.
> But you're already moving at a pace that you wanted to avoid.
> With a teasing smile you respond.
" My, are we in a rush? I just got here."
> You send a deep red blush across her cheeks, "And we're glad you're here."
> Her eyes sparkle as she retorts.
> You both spend a moment just looking into each others eyes with a natural smile before the sound of that pencil mustache bird chef comes back and tops your glasses with the wine bottle on the table.
> But wait...
> That smell...
> "My esteemed guests,  your meals." He lowers a wing he had open to allow the servers to bring your plates held fast in their own respective colored auras.
> Luna receives hers first, "Oh this smells amazing Gustave!"
> Then yours.
> After being placed in front of you, a silver lid was removed uncovering your order.
> The scent of it hits your nose cueing almost tears of joy.
> Hello steak, old dear friend.
 
> You are Luna.
> And you're enjoying your meal, but not nearly as much as Anonymous is by the sight of things.
> Are... are those tears in his eyes?.
> You sip your wine through a smirk watching him destroy the steak infront of him.
"If we didnt know any better, we would think this was your last meal."
> He glances up to you for a moment, probably realizing his savage attack on his plate.
> Mouth full of juicy red and pink centered steak, utensils gripped improperly in tight fists ready for the next attack on the defenseless meat.
> You catch Gustave shaking his head in disapproval of Anon's lack of manners briefly.
> "Sh-shorry. Ish sho good doe." He speaks, mouth full.
"We can see that" you say gesturing to his almost empty plate.
> His chewing pauses with puffed food packed cheeks as he looks to his plate then yours.
> He blushes seeming a little embarrassed realizing he demolished his plate before you put a dent in yours.
> Aw he looks so cute with his chipmunk cheeked blush!
> You giggle behind your wine glass taking another sip.
> He seemed to calm down after that incident as you politely finished your own meal.
> You left about half the contents on your plate, while Anon's was as clean as if it just came out of a sudsy sink.
> "Ohh that's just what the doctor ordered... Thank you so much for showing me this place" he leans back in his chair rubbing his belly with a content smile.
"Anything for our dear Anonymous" you say in a half joking tone as you maintain your own smile and eye contact.
> You really would do anything for him you think to yourself, quietly watching his relaxed full satisfied smile.
> The wine you sip away at has you feeling quite comfortable at the moment as you sport slightly reddened cheeks.
> You haven't drank much in a while, besides for the Vinyl Scratch show,  as you never really had much reason to.
> But the nervous sips seem to be adding up.
 
> Whatever, it's your very own night out with your dear Anonymous!
"Tell us Anonymous, what would you like to do next?" You ask with relative comfort leaning towards him, interested in his response.
> "Oh.. um.. I'm not really sure? I hadn't planned on doing much? " he ends in somewhat of a questioning tone.
"The night is ours Anonymous! At last, one real night. let's not have it wasted." You try adding excitement to your own tone to snap him out of it.
> "Or, we can have it wasted." His voice implies contradiction, and his mouth a sly grin, which leaves you confused for a moment.
> He must see it on your face because he begins to smile more at your momentary lack of understanding.
> Have it wasted?..
> Why waste a full night of..
> 'A pun Luna... Drinking..'
> Oh...
> 'wasted'...
> I get it!
> You try to hide your own embarrassment now from your ignorance.
> " You're so adorable when you blush" he laughs to him self humored at your humiliation.
"Sh-shut up.." you rest your forelegs across the table in defeat as your shoulders drooped with a pout.
> You are soon snapped out of it though as you feel the warm caress of his hands running up a small length of them. 
> "Such language from a Princess! " he feigns shock.
> Oh stars..
> His fingers send chills up your spine as you do your best to remain composed.
> You could never get enough of that touch.
> "Gustave! Another bottle of wine!" His uncouth request rings loudly in the empty fine establishment.
 
~~~~
> You are Flash Sentry
> You glide through the chilly air high in the cover of the night darkened clouds.
> The hood that once masked your identity now flaps behind your head, and eyes remain squinted as you approach your destination.
> An old outpost barracks on the outskirts of Canterlot comes into view.
> It seems nature was retaking the structure as abundant ivy coated the sides and partial roof of the weathered building.
> With a few flaps of your wings you slow your decent, landing into a forward limped trotting speed favoring your weight to one side.
> Entering the front door with a jab to the shoddy wood, you are struck with the stagnant stale air stench as you walk towards a flimsy cot.
> You drop your cloak carelessly as you make your way to it.
> The the sounds of your clacking hooves send slight echos down the long mostly empty stone hall.
> The barracks seem obviously abandoned, except for several other cots, equipment and food supplies.
> Miscellaneous pieces of polished golden armor lie beside one of the cots with an ornate sharpened spear.
> Morter crumbles quietly from between weathered blocks of stone that make up the walls.
> Signs of injury become apparent as you hop on to one of the cots examining yourself.
"That little server shit..." you look over a bite mark on your foreleg and run a hoof across your sore jaw.
~~~~
[Train flash back]
> You can feel it.
> Your impending victory.
> A plan coming to its fruition.
> Walking with no rush, savoring the sight and sounds of Anon's struggle, you saunter in his direction.
> You notice one of your allies unconscious on the floor to the side.
> No matter, it seems that everything is under control regardless.
> The Pegasus you manipulated to do your work with promises of 'power', the behind the scenes Wonderbolt, Lightning Streak,  holds Anonymous in place with a rope to his neck.
 
> You grip a dagger in your teeth that you have been obsessively sharpening and polishing for this very moment.
> The bothersome server must have noticed as he shakily stands to his hooves.
> " I won't let you do this to Prince Anonymous!" He sounds pathetic as he tries to project authority at you.
> He comes between you and your objective.
> The only thing standing between you and successfully completing your perfect plan.
> As much as you actually admire his bravery, you can't process why he would defend such a creature.
> Such a.. Beast..
> You notice Anonymous begin to go limp behind the server, his frantic struggle becoming tired out.
> What a hindrance!
> He's ruining things!
"Move aside servant!" You attempt to shove him away but he awkwardly struggles against you keeping you away from Anonymous with flailing fore hooves and shoves.
> You don't want to hurt him more than necessary, but now is the time to strike the Beast!
> To be the hero Equestria needs!
> You draw back a hoof and deliver it to the nose of the server.
> He let's out a squeal of pain bringing his hooves to his nose.
> This pony is no fighter afterall..
> With a violent shove to the side you clear the path to your target.
> Your eyes widen with victory just a hoofs reach away.
> An impact to your side sends you away from your target to the floor though.
> Why that little server shit!
> He lays on your side after the awkward tackle.
> Drawing back his own hoof he delivers it as a jab into your jaw with a thud.
> " Stop screwing around we need to hurry up!" The pegasus holding Anon yells in.
> Extending a wing into the face of the server to disorient him, you deliver an upwards punch back causing him to roll away onto the floor.
 
> Rising back to your own hooves you bark down to him.
" You'll quit now if you know what's good for you servant!"
> He seems to curl up and wince on his side at your words.
> With that you turn back to Anonymous after picking up the blade you had in your mouth from the floor.
> Stepping around the hindrance on the floor you prepare your final movements towards Anonymous, the bane of your existence.
> He dies now...
> A sharp pain on your foreleg distracts you once more as your teeth  dig down on the handle in a grunting pain.
> Looking down, you see the desperate littler server biting down on your leg.
> He won't let go!
> You try yanking away but he holds fast as droplets of blood begin to emerge from your breaking skin.
"Aarhg! You dammed fool!"
> In a desperation to free yourself you slam the blade down into the rib cage of the attacking pony.
> It works as his grip let's go and the sound of a gurgling gasp enters your ears.
> "Wake up Prince Anonymous.." the pathetic sight pleads and sputters from the floor with a violent cough.
> You lift him up in your fore hooves staring at him from under the shade of your hood.
"You should have stayed out of it." Your voice almost scolding him.
> You almost feel bad ending such a worthless life, but he kept you from your objective.
 
> You hear sounds from Anonymous as he begins to display signs of waking back up.
> And.. his eyes.
> They make your heart stop for a moment as the air in the room seems to feel suddenly more tense.
"What a disgusting beast..." you say aloud to yourself.
> Lifting up the server he mutters his final words to you, "That beast.. is your Prince.."
> It sets a fire in your heart.
" He is no Prince of mine..." you whisper with a grunt, throwing the server to the corner of the train car where he remained still and slumped to his side facing the wall.
> That undermining monkey was an animal, fit only to be put down...
~~~~~~
> "Flash..."
> That server stopped you...
 
> "Flash."
> You were a hoofs reach away!
> "Flash!"
"WHAT." You bark.
> The pestering voice snaps you out of your thoughts.
> Your tired eyes raise to an unwelcome sight, jumping a little.
> "...Is it done?"
> The golden armored Ponyville guard stands in the entrance way.
> Drawing an inhale of regret and even annoyance,  you respond.
"No Shield Oath... it's not.."
---
"You're doing it too hard! Haha!-hic-"
> "No I'm not! You're just bad at it!"
"No we're nnoott!" Your whine is exaggerated.
> Another piece of bread ripped from the fine assortment earlier laid out on your table flies towards your head from Anon's hand.
> With eyes squeezed shut you open your mouth wide trying to catch it in the air.
> You are Luna
> And the bread you try to catch in your mouth bounces off your nose to the table.
" Oh noo! We almost had -hic- it!  Hehe.." You bring a hoof to your mouth to cover your blatant hiccups.
> You have been drinking with your dear Anonymous for a little while now.
> The poor Gustave stares slack jawed, next to the prim and proper cellist who apparently has seen enough as she packed away her cello in frustration.
> "At least that one stayed infront of you Luna." Anon says to you with his own reddened cheeks, drinking his wine.
> Glancing back quickly you notice numerous pieces scattered across the floor behind you.
> Then you look to the one piece on table top infront of you.
"We are improving! We are quite good at games Anonymous." Your tone is full of excitement.
"-hic-"
> And.. some intoxication.
> "uh-huhh.." he blankly stares.
> Is he mocking your progress?!
> "M-my... esteemed guests." Gustave attempts to get your attention beside your table as Anon begins to wind up another bread toss.
"Oh, yes?" You  become distracted turning to him as a piece of bread bounces from your cheek to the table. > "Ha!" Anon drinks from his glass as Gustave continues.
"Anon!" You whisper at him trying to act serious.
 
> Gustave stares at the bread as it settles to one spot, then scans the many open bottles of wine and corks across the table while speaking, "I.. am afraid we are going to be closing shortly.."
> "Mishter Mushtache ish kicking ush out Luna" Anon blurts out with a mouth full of the bread he was picking his ammunition from.
> You shoot him your best 'behave!' look.
"Of course Gustave." You brush away some crumbs from your face.
> The realization of how childish you both were acting settles in.
> "If you would be so kind as to foward the bill to the castle it will be promptly taken care of." Composure, you has it.
> " Of course my Princess" he bows slightly only to be brought in to Anon's side by his over friendly drunken arm.
> " Gusty... buddy.. Thank you for the incredible steak. I simply MUST come back here again." His speech is over dramatic.
> "...Indeed." he breaks away from Anon's grip.
"Thank you once more for accommodating us. We shall speak highly of your establishment." You offer your parting compliments.
> " Yea.. And I'm taking this!" Anon grabs another hand full of bread and half full bottle of wine while standing.
> Gustave seems to have had enough as he forces a horribly unsuccessful smile accompanied by an eye twitch before turning and leaving.
 
> You are Anon
> Champion of the drink, satisfied throughly with a belly full of steak.
> You stroll along the moon and street lamp illuminated sidewalk with the lovely Princess Luna at your side leaning gently into you.
> "We think you may need some etiquette classes my dear Anonymous" she jests with a warm smile looking up to you.
> You know you're not the most... upscale mannered person, but ouch.
"Oh ya?.." you bring the wine bottle that you took from the restaurant up to your lips.
> While taking your small swig, you raise your pinky nice and high.
> Class, you has it.
> Luna laughs aloud at your display of 'proper etiquette'
> "Very classy Anonymous" she leans her head against you while you walk to nowhere in particular.
> Her body is warm against your side on the chilly night.
> Your arm instinctively reaches around her, letting your nails drag lightly down the length of her neck and rest near her withers.
> With a light hum of approval her sparkling teal eyes look up to you.
> The smile she already wears warms as she looks to you.
> She closes her eyes lightly raising her lips to yours for a quick gentle kiss that you reciprocated.
> You find an involuntary smile form on your face.
" What was that for?"
> "We are just glad that you are here.." her breath taking pools of teal remain fixed to your own eyes.
> Your fingers drag gently along her soft coat and flowing mane towards her ear.
> Giving them a light scratch you respond as her ear twitches in your hand.
"Well I'm glad I came. I feel alot better around you. Like you understand me, and what's going on with me.." you admit under the comfort she, and the alcohol provide.
> "We probably understand you better than you know." Her eyes are closed, lost in your act of affection as she speaks.
 
> A quick casted shadow catches your eye causing your heart to momentarily skip a beat.
> Looking towards the bright moon, you catch Night Tide keeping an eye on things circling the both of you high in the nights sky.
> His patrol is absolutely silent.
> That's comforting..
> You draw a small relaxing breath and calm once more.
> Looking back down towards Luna you respond.
"Is that right now?.."
> Her eyes open slightly looking up to you.
> Her expression while still mostly happy has a sense of saddeness.
> "It is." Her gorgeous, brilliant eyes look to you.
> Almost with an expression of empathy.
> "But perhaps that is a conversation for another time. We would much rather continue enjoying the night with you. In fact we have an idea." She seems to perk up.
"And what might that be?"
> You feel an odd sensation spread through your body from your core, outwards towards your limbs.
> Her horn begins to glow as you feel the weight on your feet lessen, almost lifting from the floor, your body lightly covered by the color of her aura.
> With an audible snap you feel as if your body is being yanked while colors momentarily streak and blend.
> Just as quickly as you felt it being, it was over.
> And it wasn't very pleasant, as you fight off feelings of nausea.
> You have only felt it one other time, while you were being teleported out of a certain burning barn.
> In the back of your mind you wonder how it is that she was able to do that.
> Twilight was never able~~
> "D-do you like it?" Her quiet apprehensive questioning tone brings you back out of thought.
> A few blinks of your eyes clears your drifting mind to your new surroundings.
> Luna stands there completely unfazed, looking for some kind of reaction from you.
> You stand in a small open grassy area outside of what seems to be a meticulously landscaped and maintained garden with tall hedges, intricately decorated with various types and colors of flowers.
 
> The sound of lightly flowing water causes you to turn and take notice of a multi tiered fountain with an ornate white stone bench.
> The towering height of the castle, now only a short walking distance away, casts a long shadow across the open grassy area off of a cliffs end overlooking a breath taking view of some of Canterlot, an open field, mountains with flowing waterfalls, and Cloudsdale in the distance.
"..Wow.."
> Your response is almost in disbelief as you take in the view.
> Her mane flows with the slightly heavier wind to one side as she smiles, clearly entertained by your amazement.
> You take a small step towards the bench and take a seat.
" This is beautiful.." you say quietly while scanning the view.
> She joins your side.
> "We're glad you like it" she responds equally as quiet watching you for a moment before taking in the view herself.
> A moment passes where nothing is said as you both enjoy the warmth you provide eachother as the cool breeze comes and goes.
> Quiet cricket chirps echo from time to time.
> The taller grass flows with water like patterns at the whim of every breeze.
> The waterfalls of the mountains drop silently, too far to be heard, casting off a hazy mist into the air.
> The feeling of warmth leaning on your shoulder causes you to look to its source.
> Luna lays her head into you, eyes closed lightly with the softest of smiles.
> It warms your heart as you watch her, pulling her in snug to your side with your free arm.
> After everything that has happened, all the pain, the rage, betrayal...
> It is beyond comforting to have this moment of peace.
> Thanks to her, if even just for this short while, everything is okay.
"Thank you Luna.." you whisper down to her.
> Leaning down slightly, you plant a gentle kiss atop her head.
> Her smile widens a little as her eyes remained closed.
> She hums in approval and cuddles into you somewhat more.
> Your fingers lightly trace the contours of her tucked wings as you stare out into the mesmerizing scenery not paying much mind to what you're actually doing.
> You barely notice her blush and her mildly nuzzling her head into you a little more as your eyes fix on the haze of fog like mist produced by a distant waterfall.
> The background noise of gently falling water from the fountain relaxes you almost completely.
> Opening your mouth wide, you let out a prolonged quiet yawn.
> Maybe it was too relaxing..
> " Have we kept you too late my dear Anonymous?.." Luna asks eyes closed still cuddled tightly to your side.
"No no.. I needed this.."
> She hums quietly acknowledging your response.
> You feel her shuffle slightly while you run your fingers along the length of her wings to their base and trace along her back.
> She appears to want to say something, but only blushes a little more.
> Maybe she's getting cold or something...
----
> You are Luna
> And Anon's caress on your wings is simply melting your resolve.
> It doesn't help that the effects of the wine you both shared earlier still linger.
> Or maybe it does help..
> Who cares..
> You're happy regardless.
> His fingers trace down to the base of the wing he teased, causing you to stifle a gasp.
> ...That you think he's teasing..
> Does he know he's teasing you?
> Oh stars you can't even recall a time anypony was able to make you feel like this.
> So special.
> So excited
> So..
> You bite your lower lip.
> B..behave Luna..
 
> His fingers running up a small length of your spine causes an involuntary shiver in you.
> Oh those talented human hands.
> You wonder what else they could~~
> "You alright?" Anon asks curiously.
> His voice tenses you, making you realize you were leaning into him with your eyes closed, eyebrows lightly raised and biting your lip.
> Very much outwardly enjoying his hands on your body.
> You feel your body heat rise more in embarrassment wondering if he noticed or not.
"Umm.. Y-yes we are.. quite fine.."
> You try to provide a composed response.
> " No you're not. "
> You feel a lump form in your throat as you try to formulate a proper explanation.
> Oh stars how embarrassing!
> He probably ~~
> " You were shivering, you're cold aren't you. We can go up to your room if you'd like. " he offers in his casual tone.
> A weight lifts from your shoulders at his incorrect assumption.
"Perhaps a little" you say in an innocent enough voice.
> *We* can go up to the room?
> Internal squee!
" Sure, I think we would like that." You unintentionally say quietly and half lidded while you look to him.
> "Alright then.. Which way are we~~" in your internal excitement you cut him off.
> A teal like aura from your horn enveloped him as he appeared to make an expression of bracing himself.
> His weight lessened as his stance was mostly supported by his lifting toes.
> You closed your eyes and sent him up to your quarters with a quick -snap-
> Once he was gone your eyes open slightly
> A light teal recedes slowly from the whites of your eyes, as your sharp slit pupils take their normal shape.
> You hate using this power, but it works with Anonymous.
> Not even that purple brat could figure it out.
> You'll have to explain it to him at some point..
> But now is not that time.
> You go to join him as your midnight blue aura envelopes you as well sending you off with a -snap-.
 
---
> You are Anon
> And you just landed on your feet in a dimly lit bedroom, using the foot of a bed as support after the unpleasant teleport.
> Taking a seat on it you let your bearings come to you.
> After a few moments of battling slight nausea you realize how comfortable the bed you sit on actually is.
> You bounce on it slightly while seated.
> Nice, maybe you'll get a real night of rest this time if you get to sleep on it.
> You flop back on it with your arms outstretched to the side letting out a satisfied sigh.
" Ahhh... This is good.."
> "-Snap- Oh, we see you have made yourself comfortable already? "
> You sit up quickly.
"Oh, uh.. yeaaa.. sorry. It's so comfortable. It's been a little while since I got to lay on a good bed."
> A pang of loss rings through you recalling how comfortable yours was.
> How you could lay in it all day if you were able to.
> How on cold nights you would keep warm in it cuddled with ...
> Well...
> ... Warm anyway..
> Luna must have read a change in your expression as she begins to speak, "You know we are joking my dear Anonymous. Make yourself as comfortable as you would like."
"Thanks. " you quietly reply trying to snap yourself out of the little funk you just brought yourself into.
> Standing, you begin to slip your shoes from your feet while scanning the room to see where she intends for you to stay.
> But the only furniture suitable for sleeping in this room seems to be her bed.
> Was she giving you her bed for the night?
> You haven't thought about this part yet.
> Luna circles to the side of the bed happily before crawling onto it herself letting out a quiet sigh.
> You rub your head almost embarrassed to ask.
> Scanning the room once more you do though.
 
"Where uh.. where would I be staying tonight?"
> Luna seems to stiffen up, losing her relaxed expression now looking embarrassed herself.
> "Well we, um.. Thought.." she looks away from you hoofing at the sheets and quietly finishes, "We thought that if you wanted to.. share the bed tonight.. That we wouldn't mind.."
> Share the bed?
> While you two were definitely getting more than comfortable, you didn't assume she ment it like that.
"Ohh. It's that kind of sleep over huh?" You smile trying to add humor to relax her obvious anxiety.
> It only manages to redden her cheeks more though as she lays tight lipped looking away.
> Leaving your shoes at the side of the bed you slip into it yourself, leaving a good amount of space between the both of you.
> Oh man is this bed comfortable.
> You turn to Luna with a warm smile.
" Ok Luna, it'll be a sleep over then." You say while sarcastically fluffing a pillow under your head.
> She clearly tries to hold back a big smile while saying nothing.
> Your arms make fists held over your head as you stretch with another yawn.
> Wine tended to do that to you.
> The space between you on the bed remains as you both share your fist silent ' uncomfortable moment'.
> You made it perfectly clear to her that you didn't want to push things too far until after everything was in order..
> Even though you haven't done much to keep it from going that way.
> But watching her shuffle into a comfortable position facing you melts your heart..
> She closed the space between you ever so slightly but over all respected it.
> She begins to try to blow a few stray strands of her mane out of her face, apparently not wanting to move.
> You can't help it.
> Your hand reaches out to her cheek, and your caress upwards towards her ear removes the stray mane from her face.
> She follows the motion of your hand for a moment, then looks into your eyes.
> You can't help but to gaze back into hers as well.
> They have always captivated you.
 
> A short moment passes before you realize how lost both of you have become in each others gaze, while your hand seems to have taken a mind of its own, caressing her cheek with your thumb.
> Luna shuts her eyes softly turning her cheek into the direction of your caress lightly.
> She always seems to enjoy that.
> Her coat is so soft under your hands.
> You would be lying if you said you didn't enjoy doing it as well.
> Her reactions to it were always heartwarming.
> It made your presence feel wanted.. appreciated..
> The sound of heavier gusts of wind outside enters your ears.
> A small breeze runs through the room from an open window sending an involuntary shiver through your body.
> Luna notices as her eyes slightly open.
> "My apologies my dear Anonymous.  We have become accustomed to the nights chilly air."
> Her horn lights briefly closing an open window, while also pulling a blanket over the both of you.
> In the process of doing that she slyly manages to shuffle closer, closing even more space between the both of you.
> Wait, she's become accustomed to the nights chilly air?
> So she wasn't cold outside..
> Hmm
"Thanks." You do feel warmer already though, yet you're unsure if it's from nerves or physical warmth.
> But.. this may be going in a direction that probably shouldn't happen just yet..
> It doesn't mean you don't want... it..anything.. to happen though.
> Maybe you need to hit the brakes.. just this once..
> With that you end up setting a pillow under your head and laying on your back facing the celing.
> Luna pouts childishly facing you after your caress ends.
> With a small whine to her tone she speaks, "Anonymousss.. Don't tell us you're going to sleep alreadyyy"
> Her adorable plea plays on your heart strings.
"But I'm sooo comfortable." You say with closed eyes hugging the blanket.
 
> You are Luna
> And you didn't mean to whine like that but ... but...  That's not fair!
> There was nothing more in all of Equestria that you wanted besides for Anon's... attention to you to continue.
> His little scratches.. caresses.. his body near yours..
> You were bothered.
> In more ways than one..
> But the last thing you wanted to do was come on like some needy little filly and scare him away..
> Not after waiting all this time.
> Biting the inside of your cheek a little for a moment, you speak.
"Very well then my dear Anonymous. If sleep is what you need then sleep is what you shall receive. Perhaps I shall see you there." You offer an understanding smile to hide your mild disappointment in the situation.
> " Maybe it's for the best right now that I do." He offers a vague explanation.
> " I don't want to.. over complicate things"
"We understand"
> You don't really understand.. But you do your best to not sound dismayed.
> Respecting his wishes, you turn to your side laying on the chilled sheets, facing away quietly.
> "Ok.." he almost whispers shuffling to what you assume is his comfortable spot.. away from you..
> As silence reigns for a while you begin to over think.
> Did you do something wrong?
> Or worse.
> Was there something wrong with you?..
> Did you scare him off already?
> Why were they always so afraid of you...
> The night was going so well..
> What happened?..
> Was it your room??
> Aegis said it was fine though.
> Your shoulders drop as you let out a silent sigh internally beating yourself.
> A slight movement in the bed distracts your thinking, and the feeling of a warm body beginning to press into your back brings a small smile to your face.
> Anon's arm reaches over your side, now cuddled up to your back, lightly scratching your side near your folded wing.
> "Eh.. forget it.. it's chilly anyway.." he whispers as he holds you, his hot breath warming your neck sending chills down your spine.
 
> You catch your eyes closing and your smile widening as you lean back relaxing into his embrace, still not facing him.
"We do hope that we can keep you warm then.." you quietly respond as you feel your doubt fade and heart melt at his touch.
---
> You are Anon
> A little... cuddling never killed anyone before right?
> Your hand runs slowly up and down her soft coat along her side as you lay with her.
> She hums quietly again in a satisfied tone as you do so, leaning into you a little more.
> Her body heat quickly fought off the chill you were feeling as it got very warm next to her.
> How comfy.
> " Mmm..." She let's out a soft satisfied sighing moan as your fingers trace the side of her wing.
> You feel her lower back begin to arc into you a little as the trace of your fingers follow the details of her wings towards the wing base.
> She let's out a barely audible shaking gasp as your fingers circle from her wing base back down her spine.
> Her breaths become noticeably deeper.
> You shouldn't be doing this...
> Her lower back arcs a little more into you as your fingers begin to approach her cutie mark.
> You... probably... shouldn't be.
> ...Your fingers drag along her soft flank, towards her thigh slightly, before coming back across her cutie mark.
> This invokes a more audible gasp and stifled moan.
> You're unable to read any facial expressions as she still faces away.
> But the sounds and movements she makes suggests she is enjoying it.
> After another shaky inhale, "ohh... Anon..." breathily escapes her mouth.
> The contact from her gently rocking back into you and her reactions to your caress quickly begin to crumble any remaining resolve you had.
> You take a quiet breath of your own when you feel her flank push gently back into you again, this time against one of your more sensitive areas..
" Ohh.." you let escape your mouth with a moderate exhale along her neck.
 
> Your let your fingers run from her cutie mark back along her flank, this time letting your palm flatten out on it giving it a gentle squeeze as your forehead pressed lightly against the back of her head.
> So soft..
> Your lips move across the fine fur just behind her ear as you let out another exhale from her rocking back into you.
> Your lips continue to lightly run to the base of her ear giving it a small nibble and flick from your tongue.
> Luna moves away from you for a moment rather adruptly appearing to be a little out of breath and with pink hued cheeks.
> You pull your hand back as your eyes open a little wider.
> Panic momentarily takes you.
> Did you misread something here?
> You over did it.
> That has to be it...
> You knew you shouldn't have~~
> She now turns so she faces you.
> Your heart grips tight in your chest.
"Luna. I-im sorry I got carried~~"
> You realize this gaze.
> She says nothing, simply looking into your eyes once more.
> Eyes that read longing.. desire stare into yours.
"Luna.."
> She closes the distance, closing her eyes with a firm pressed kiss that you meet back with equal force.
> Your hand reaches up to her neck sliding up the length of it to the back of her head.
> The intensity of your embrace begins to increase as you feel her moan into your mouth quietly from the feeling of your hands up her neck.
> Your tongue begins to explore her mouth as hers runs along yours, both dancing along one another in their passionate exploration.
> She desperately leans into you more as the intensity of your embrace doesn't let up.
> Short gasps for air and quiet moans are the only sounds that fill the room for the moment.
> Your hand moves from the back of her head down the length of her neck once more stopping near her chest.
> Not skipping a beat during your embrace, your hand makes some small circles along the soft coat of her chest, moving towards her belly.
 
> You could feel her body momentarily twitch but her hungry kiss urged you to continue.
> You run your fingers up and down the length of her belly causing some small shivers, teasing her a little.
> She breaks her embrace, leaving barely any room, breathing somewhat heavily, "Anon-pant- please..." Desperation saturated her voice.
> You slide your head up to her ear and nibble it gently.
"Please what.. " You whisper continuing your tease on her belly, with your fingers coming closer and closer to her marehood.
> She leans her head into yours letting out small moans feeling you get even closer.
> Her squirms and pants increase.
> "We've waited so long-pant- please,  don't make us wait another second." Her cheek runs along yours.
"Wait for.. this?.."
> Deciding not to keep her waiting your hand wanders lower.
> Your fingers run lightly over her eager marehood.
> She was already wet with anticipation, as you felt her drop her hips towards your approaching hand.
> "Mmm!" Her head looks towards the celing with tightly shut eyes.
> Your already soaked fingers begin to rub in small circles in her most sensitive of areas.
> Her hips begin to rock with a mind of their own as her head comes back down.
> She presses her forehead against yours with her eyes still closed.
> " Oohhh! " She wraps a foreleg over your neck as her hips rock against your circling fingers.
> "Ohh.. -pant- Oh stars Anon.." she pushes another passionate kiss that you meet.
 
> You are Luna
> And your head is spinning at this moment.
> Waves of pleasure radiate throughout your entire body from Anon's talented fingers at work.
> It just began but it was everything you imagined and more.
> No hoof, nor magic could compare to the gifted fingers of this 'man'.
> Though it has been ages since anything like this has happened, you're ecstatic that it finally does get to with Anon.
> Getting lost in your ecstacy,  your horn dimly lights as your deep kiss with Anon continues.
> Gripping his hand gently in your aura you influence it to add a little more pressure to his action, which he goes along with offering no resistance.
> You break your kiss momentarily as you let out an un restricted moan.
"Ohhh! Yes Anon..-gasp-" your gasp becomes a little more high pitched and your voice drips with pleasure.
> Stars he has you in a state you don't think you have ever even been in.
> Your body is hot, cheeks flushed, and you're absolutely desperate for more.
> " M..more" you whisper out as your horn lights again manipulating his hand guiding it to your awaiting sex.
> " Now now.." his nibble returns to your ear causing your heart to skip a beat.
> His tongue flicks the tip of your ear as he does.
> "What fun would it be if I let you do everything?.." his teeth gently squeeze down on your sensitive ear causing you to shakily gasp and release his hand.
> His demand for control sets you even more over the edge as you feel his teeth grip your twitching ear
 
> You fully submit to him as you only hold him against your chest, your breaths deep trying to satiate your pounding heart.
> His hand begin to work larger circles gliding effortlessly.
> A blush deepens on your cheeks slightly embarrassed of how ready your throbbing area is, thoroughly wet from his manipulations.
> But it feels so good, you find it difficult to care as your eyes roll back slightly becoming lost from wave after wave of pleasure that rocks your body.
> His fingers glide over your entrance several times causing a moan of desperation as your hips raise to his hand every time.
"Anon..." you whisper through an airy exhale.
> A small grin forms on his face before he trails soft kisses with gently pursed lips by your ear trailing down your neck.
> It causes your eyes to shut and chin to raise allowing him access to make his way down and back up your sensitive neck.
> Your mouth remains slightly agape with closed eyes.
> Your mind becomes a blur as his attention on your neck sends tingles across the sensitive skin he kisses.
> His hand guides your face back to his gaze.
> With half lidded begging eyes, you stare into his.
> He pulls your head close to his with care while keeping eye contact.
> You feel his circle motion between your rear legs move to a slower up and down, once again teasing over your entrance.
> Then you feel his fingers press slighter harder almost entering you.
"P..please.." you lean harder into him.
> Without saying a word you feel his fingers slide back to your sensitive spot.
> Your hips follow his movement, before his fingers slide into your hot awaiting marehood.
> With a long gasp that you hold for a moment, you press your forehead to his feeling your inner muscles tense around his exploring fingers.
 
> A quick exhale escapes you before you take another lung full of air that you hold again as his fingers begin to rhythmically move inside you.
"S...so.. good.. Anon.. oh my.." you tried to speak but the waves of pleasure that rocked your entire body made it almost impossible.
> His fingers begin to move in a 'come here' motion inside of you causing your hips to once more move rhythmically with the motion.
> You won't be able to last much longer as you begin to feel your muscles tense and throb.
"Anon I ~~Mmmm" he silences you with a passion filled kiss.
> Your heart pounds heavily as your body becomes his play toy.
> You place a hoof on his chest as your horn glows dimly again.
> The aura you send though lights dimly under the sheets you both still share.
> Being unfamiliar with the pants he wears and the.. mechanics of them.. you do your best to begin to remove them.
> At first it ends up being some awkward tugging and pulling at them.
> You feel a smile form from Anon under your kiss with him, which causes your heart to tense.
> It begins to fluster you which only results in more tugging at his pants with no avail.
> Anon chuckles still leaning his forehead into yours.
" Anon! Stop!" You pout feeling silly.
> "Haha ok.. here I'll help" he guides your hoof trailing down his own chest towards the infernal pants.
> Your pout remains as he has to walk you through this.
> So embarrassing..
> It might have been a while,  but you.. basically know what you're doing.
> Yet as your hoof reaches it's destination, you feel something hard pressing against his pants.
> Your cheeks hue red as your heart skips a beat.
> D..did he just have you feel what you think he did?
> Feeling his hand make a quick motion, his pants opened.
> You never did understand them.. but he did look nice in them.
 
> With his bothersome pants out of the way, you avoid eye contact from the still smiling Anon.
> T..that jerk..
> He continues with the motion of his fingers inside of you, sending a chill up your spine and an unexpected moan to escape your mouth.
> Ohh.. you love that jerk...
> With a foreleg you motion against his arm to stop.
> He looks slightly confused.
"W..we want you Anonymous. ." Your eyes do more talking than your words.
> Your body pushes against his as his hand pulls away.
> The feeling of his already hard member pressed again you as you did so.
> You push another passionate kiss into him as you begin to shift your body from laying next to him, to on top of him.
> Seeing what you're doing, Anon turns his hips with yours, helping you turn over with his hands on your flank, never breaking your kiss.
> Your hind legs straddle his bare lower torso.
> You can feel his member twitch in anticipation, causing a small smile in you now.
> You rock your hips slowly and teasingly against him.
> He holds back a moan of his own as you feel his fingers sink into the meat of your soft flank.
> Adjusting your hips so his twitching member lines up with your eager marehood, you teasingly rock against it, not letting him enter you.
> A tease that equally drives you crazy as your eyes close while you bite your lip.
 
> Anon's taking deeper breaths as you feel his hips push up into your rocking motion.
> You push down a little harder into him, sliding the length of his member still not allowing him to enter you.
> You'll teach him!
> " Ohh.. " his fingers drag from your flank up the length of your back and trace around the base of your wings.
> Your wings open slightly at his attention to them as you hold another gasp.
> You can't take it anymore.
> You need him.
> Raising your hips slightly with closed eyes, your horn lights, angling the tip of his member to meet your entrance.
> His hands running down your sides send a chill through you.
> They stop back down on your flank squeezing firmly, as they begin to push your hips downwards.
> The tip of his member begins to enter you.
> Slowly the length of him enters deeper and deeper causing you to tremble and gasp in ecstacy.
> His hips meet yours as he fully hilts you.
> You're finally having this moment with your dear Anonymous.
> Your love that you waited so long for.
> You lean down, as he raises his head to meet you.
> A soft tender kiss is shared.
---
> You are Celestia
> You hate waking up earlier than you have to.
> Bags under your eyes don't suit you.
> But Cadence and Shining Armor were supposed to be arriving today and you needed to make sure everything would be in order for their arrival.
 
> With a heavy reluctant sigh you flip your soft comfortable blanket off of you, remaining still.
> It's still dark out.
> You have no business being up this early.
> After a brief moment of complaining to yourself you rise from your bed with a quiet whine.
> After stretching your legs and wings to their fullest extent accompanied by a prolonged yawn, you take a glance into a mirror.
> Your morning mane of sloppy light pink remains unkempt as you stroll half awake to your bedroom exit.
> Tea.. you need it..
> Your heavy hooves click and clack, echoing down the empty halls as you zombie your way to find the nearest source caffeine.
> Passing by Luna's room you hear shuffling and voices faintly.
> She's so... peculiar..
> Probably talking to herself again..
> You never intervene unless she sounds like she's going to get out of control..
> Which.. it doesn't really sound like right now.
> You continue on down, resuming your caffeine quest.
> Approaching a waiters entrance to a kitchen you magic the door infront of you open, startling several little ponies beginning to prep the kitchen as advised by you the day before.
> One stammers up some words, "o-oh! G-good morning my Princess. Is there~"
" Oop, oop..." you raise a hoof.
" No tea, no talkie..."
> Well you accidentally came off like a bitch.
> But you don't care.
> You're too tired.
> How does Luna pull this off every night?
> "M..my apologies Princess, right away."
> You nod.
" Please prepare a coffee for my sister as well. You know how she likes it. Extra sugar.."
> "Of course Princess. " the little chef hat wearing pony scurried off, harshly whispering orders to the others.
 
> You take a seat at a small table meant for the help as you await your tea.
"Uhg... I hope Cadence and Shining are late.." you lay your head on your hooves on the table.
> The chef hat wearing earth pony approaches the table after a few moments and places a small plate of pancakes and assorted fruits on the table.
> " My Princess the tea will be out shortly, the water is still heating."
> After groaning you muster up some politeness.
"Thank you my little pony.." you force a gentle smile.
> It's water..
> You should just go back there and ignite the damn thing your self.
> You levatate a strawberry to your mouth biting half way into it with a blank uninterested stare to the wall.
> You wonder if Luna took any opportunity to rest over night so she could greet them with you when they arrive.
> It was hard getting her the exposure to others that she should have since she was always up at night and sleeping during the day.
> Maybe more exposure to other ponies would help iron out some of her quirks that made them so uneasy of her.
"We want our coffee!" You quietly imitate to your self lifting a hoof to the air.
> "i..I thought you said tea.. Princess" The earth pony stands uneasy at the corner with your tea.
> oops.
"Yes that is what I wanted. Thank you." You force a smile once more.
> " o..okay"
> You grip your tea with your magic bringing it to your table.
> After lazily biting into another strawberry you bring your tea to your lips.
> It's scalding hot.
> Just the way you like it.
> Taking a few polite sips you let out a satisfied sigh.
 
> You take your time eating most of your hearty breakfast.
> After finishing up your tea, your faithful little waiter had a fresh one waiting to go.
"Thank you. " you smile as he places your tea and Luna's coffee to go on the table.
> " A pleasure my Princess." He bows deeply before leaving.
> After he leaves you notice a few bites of pancakes left on your plate.
> With a quick glance left and right you magic it to your mouth, stuffing it in.
> Your cheeks puff full of pancakes as you chew away wearing a satisfied smile.
> Rising, you grip your tea and Luna's coffee in your aura as you chew and walk.
> Before exiting you pass a polished reflective fridge.
> Taking a glance at yourself, cheeks puffed with food, you give yourself a once over.
> You swallow the pancakes with guilt as you take a dismayed peek at your flank in the reflection.
> Uhg..
> You need to start watching what you eat.
> You swear it's getting bigger.
> No more cake for you!
> You snort at the reflection and exit.
> This coffee needs to get to Luna soon before she complains that it's cold..
> Well.. it's not like you can't heat it up..
> After a few moments you approach Luna's door again, drinks in your aura.
 
> Raising a hoof to push the door open, a few sounds catch your ear stopping you.
> " Unf... ohhh.. yes." muffled comes barely audible through the door.
> You freeze up with widened eyes.
> You'll kill her if she's tired from.. from.. satisfying herself instead of resting.
> Why is your sister so strange...
" Luna!" You shout from the outside of her closed door.
> You don't have the patience for this right now.
> That should be sufficient for her to stop... whatever it was she was doing to herself...
> Pushing the door open with your hoof you begin to hear a rocking sound from the mattress immediately followed by scampered shuffling and frightened mumbling.
> In more than one voice.. at once.
> W-was there somepony else with her?
> You realize that you haven't considered that in the split second the door was opening.
> The door fully opens as Luna sprawls her wings open dropping to the bed, trying to pull the rest of the blanket over her upper body.
> "oof..ow!" Can be heard.
> "Tia!? G-Get out!!" She screams panicked at you.
> The smell of sex was pungent in the room as you froze for a moment and awkwardly looked away catching a partial view of her flank.
> The door highlights in her midnight aura slamming shut in your face, smacking the drinks you held to the floor.
> What... in the blazing sun.. did you just see?..
> You stand stark still wearing a shocked embarrassed blush outside of her door.
"It's going to be this kind of day isn't it?.." you say aloud to your self standing in a puddle of coffee and tea.
 
> With a swift about face, you begin to walk back towards your room, leaving the mess on the floor for Luna.
> Your mind is still somewhat in shock as a blush lingers on your cheeks.
" I'm not cleaning this!" You shout back at the door in an indignant tone trying to save some face from your embarrassment.
> Maybe your little sister had more... exposure than you previously thought.
> Well.. good for her anyway..
> She did mention she had a new coltfriend, or something of the sort.
> And you are happy for her, but she better not mess up this visit.
> You wonder who it is she nabbed.
> Maybe one of those bat winged types?
> She is around them alot.
> Jealousy begins to nip at the back of your consciousness.
> Uhg.. How long has it been since you had a moment like that.
> So lost in your actions and pleasures that sounds around you didn't even register.
> Too long..
> Your cheeks hue a little darker as you think about it, now also fighting off the thought that you actually are the loneliest Princess now.
> Luna has whoever that was.
> Twilight has Anonymous.. to some extent you suppose.
> She apparently even had both him and Flash at one point.
> A selfish action you'll admit, but she is young.
> She took your recommendation of observation to the furthest degrees, eventually becoming attached to him.
> And Cadence has Shining..
> The picture perfect couple, only a Princess of love could make.
> Sighing, your shoulders drooped a little.
> You need to wipe this train of thought from your mind.
> That's just how it is you suppose, getting upset won't fix anything.
> You need to get back to the task at hoof.
> Keeping busy..
> Preparing for visitors..
---
 
> You are Luna
"We're sorry! We're so sorry!"
> And you just landed a hoof into your dear Anon's head during your panic at your rude sisters entry.
> "Oowwwwwuh!" he holds his forehead.
> Oh stars he's bleeding!
> You broke him!
> Panic is clear on your expression.
> Anon removes his hand from his forehead and looks at some of the blood on his hand.
> " uhg.. What was that for??" He places his hand back on his head leaning back on the bed.
"We're so so sorry. Tia was about to walk in and see.. well.. us. We panicked. "
> You still sit ontop of his now naked sweat glistened tight body, leaning back a little biting your lip.
> You sneak a peek of his body before he notices.
> "Who's Tia?.." he pats your flank signaling to get off.
> Moving off of him allowing him to sit on the side of the bed you respond.
" Um. Our sister? Celestia. "
> He seems to freeze momentarily.
> "Ohh.. I uh.. never heard Princess Celestia referred to as Tia.." he pauses uncomfortably "so.. did she.. ya know.. see?"
"We don't think so.." you feel a frown form on your own face.
> The inevitability of the situation beginning to bare down on you.
> "Hey now.."
> The comforting feeling of his hand caressing your cheek snaps you out of your depressing thought.
> "Don't get upset. It'll be alright. "
> You want to find comfort in his words but as you look to him you see his other hand still holding his forehead.
> A pout finds it self on your face as guilt reignites in you.
"Our poor Anonymous.. Let's get that cleaned up.."
 
> The both of you enter the bathroom and approach a sink that you begin to run warm water from. 
> You grip a cloth in your aura and dampen it under the running water.
"Come here you poor thing..." a guilty frown still apparent on your face.
> You begin to gently blot around the cut you inflicted on his forehead cleaning the excess drying blood.
> "So what do you think she wanted?" He asks while you work with care.
> The cut didn't seem to he that bad, and mostly stopped bleeding already.
"We don't know.." you motion for him to lean down to you with a hoof.
> With a small smile already knowing what you were going to do he complies.
> You lift your pursed lips to his forehead and place a gentle kiss to it.
"There. All better." You can't help but let a cheesy smile escape.
> He smiles fully, meeting his lips to yours for a quick peck.
> "Thanks.. So you can't think why she would just walk into your room like that unannounced?"
> Placing a hoof to your chin you begin to think.
> She usually never knocks since neither of you really ever have... company.. as you just had.
> And mostly only ever comes in when your.. 'Nightmare' begin to agitate you.
> Other than that it's usually to annoy you about going out and doing things you don't want to do.
> She doesn't get that when she's awake you're asleep.
> It's tiring.
> Always 'Luna be awake for this,  We need you to attend that, Don't forget about our guests...'
> GUESTS!
> You audibly gasp.
> Anon looks stumped "w-what"
> How could you forget!
"W...we forgot. Tia was probably coming in to remind us that Cadence and Shining are coming today." You're eyes are wide with panic to match his.
 
> You are Anon
> And your heart just dropped in your chest.
> Normally you were happy to hear about a visit from Shining.
> The both of you actually got along very well.
> You and Mac would all have a 'guys night out'.
> It usually consisted of a day of heavy drinking and stories.
> 'Guy Stuff'
> Something he always enjoyed since he didn't really get opportunities like that at the Crystal Empire.
> Now though,  you don't know what he has heard.
> You don't know what he's thinking or what he will believe.
> Before anything else, he is Twilight's brother.
> Cadence shouldn't have much of a problem seeing the truth in the situation.
> But it doesn't make things less awkward.
> They were all ... Twilight's friends and family.
> On a different level of the friends you left in Ponyville.
> "Well..." Luna shuffles uncomfortably.
> "We think Cadence would actually have to be the one to speak to anyway in the matter of your divorce.. That is.. assuming that you still want that." She rubs her foreleg anxiously with a hoof.
> You've never seen her act this shy before.
> It is something that you still want to do, and as much as you want to explain the 'Why things should have been taken slower' thought process, you decide to spare her at this point.
> Yet, even after everything that has happened, even while you stand naked as the day you were born in Luna's room.
> You still feel a pain at the thought of it.
> You can't allow yourself to feel or think that...
" It is what I want."
> You say both trying to set her and yourself at ease.
 
> A small smile forms on her anxiety ridden face.
> "Why don't you run a bath for us, while I take care of something, and we'll.. finish what we started?" Her small smile turns back to a shy one accompanied by a small blush.
" Alright. " you grin back.
> She's so awkward and it's absolutely adorable.
> Turning you begin to draw a bath as the door closes behind you.
> You let the water run over your hand until you find a comfortable temperature.
> Sighing aloud to yourself you begin to analyze your situation.
> You suppose it was going to happen sooner or later.
> The calm before the storm was so much more comfortable though..
> At least Luna will be there to support you.
> A flash of midnight aura enters from under the door that slowly dims.
> The hell was that?
> Shortly after you see daylight begin to slowly creep into the dark room.
> You keep an eye at the space under the door as you slip into the tub of warm water.
> You feel the tension in your muscles loosen as the warm water relaxes your body.
> She walks back into the room looking visibly more tired than a moment ago.
"Welcome back" you splash the water around a little bit into yourself.
> "Sorry.." she approaches the tub.
"Putting the moon to sleep?" You guess with a warm smile.
> She nods tiredly as she steps into the tub with you, straddling you momentarily.
> She cautiously lowers her body ontop of yours, stomach to stomach, resting her head into your shoulder with a quiet relaxing sigh.
> She nuzzles into your shoulder as your hands cup warm water over her shoulders that remain out of the water.
> She closes her eyes, letting out a relaxed hum as you do so.
> After a few moments you notice her paced breathing and lack of response.
> Glancing down you notice she fell asleep on you as quiet snores become more audible.
> Smiling at the sight you decide to give her a little while to rest.
> You have a sinking feeling you'll both need it.
 
> You are Flash Sentry.
> "I gave you everything you needed to get the job done. Perhaps you aren't the 'Warrior' you pretend to be. No wonder she chose Anonymous over you..."
> And Shield Oath is chewing your ear off.
> You remain staring at the ground gritting your teeth, letting a small grunt out at Anon's name.
"It wasn't that simple... Some pony was helping him.."
> "And you had two others helping you. TWO! One of which was one of my own guards!"
> You flinch at the outburst.
> "I put my reputation,  my job, my very LIFE at risk to help you because I wanted to see a strong pony with Princess Twilight. A pony actually worthy of the title Prince. Not this Anonymous abomination.. I have protected her for years and want to see her grow strong, so much so I'm risking a treason charge to help you.  I'm starting to think that beast was actually the better choice afterall."
> That arrogant bastard..
> "Fix this Flash.. I'm going back to the castle before anypony realizes I'm gone..."
> With a quick red flash from his horn and a snap, he was gone.
> You remain staring into the darkness of the room.
> It's as if you feel your sanity slipping from you as you think over Shield Oath's words.
> The beast a better choice than you?
> Hardly.
> Twilight was yours long before that ape beast arrived.
> You were to be a Prince..
> You!
> Your brow drops in anger.
> You'll reclaim what was rightfully yours.
> What was stolen from you by that filthy creature.
 
> After all Twilight was like putty in your hooves while she was still with Anonymous.
> How hard could it be to win her back now.
> And how much easier would it be after you kill Anonymous...
> A shuffling from outside catches your ears as they perk.
> Sitting up silently you listen intently.
> Hoof steps, not far off..
> Grabbing a spear from the floor you quietly flap up through a broken area in the roof.
> Perching atop of it you scan the grounds.
> You spot the hobbling figure approaching.
> Preparing to shout for it to identify it's self, you find your breath leaving your lungs in shock.
> The moonlight begins to illuminate the stranger in odd dark hues on its sides.
> But it's face is clearly visible in the silvery light.
"L-Lightning Streak?.."
> Without an answer he collapsed a short distance away.
> With a small hop and extended wings, you glide down to him.
> Landing with quiet hooves you keep a small distance and wide eyes, spear ready.
> His body seems ragged, dirty and blood stained along his back.
> And his wings...
> What in the name of Celestia happened...
> " Y..you left me.." he let's out a dry throat rasp as he lays on his side struggling for breaths.
> Your heart tenses.
> You thought for sure he was going to die.
"I...  .i...." Nothing comes to mind.
> With great effort, grunting and whimpering, he pushes himself to lie on his stomach.
> Your own stomach is in knots at the sight of him..
 
> His wings, if you can still call them that, hang limp at his side appearing to be covered in black.. crystals?..
> Taking a half circling lap around him, slack jawed, you notice his other.. crystallized.. wing partially shattered.
> A larger crystal jutted from between his wing bases appearing to also be entombing another unknown object.
> With a weak cough he speaks, "He's not going to let you go Flash. He said." He coughs more violently " He said that you'll pay for everything you've done to him and those he cares about.."
"He doesn't frighten me.." you put up your front scanning his body.
> "Then why did you leave me to die.. To let them do this to me and be tossed from a moving train? To be nothing more than a message for you... I wanted to help you Flash. But as it turns out" He coughs even louder, some blood coming from his mouth now. " You're nothing more than an opportunistic coward.."
"... Be that as it may.. " you approach him slowly as he closes his eyes accepting his impending fate.
> Knocking him back to his side with your foreleg using minimal effort, you lean a little towards his ear.
"I'm still alive.." you press the tip of your spear to his upper rib cage.
"While you, well it appears the Beast has tragically killed you." Your voice is eerily even.
> " He'll do the same if not worse to you.. coward.." his breathing sounds so labored, you feel as if you're about to do him a favor, but his words set a fire in your chest.
" No he WON'T!" You plunge your spear down into his tender bruised side invoking a small yelp.
> His body tenses, curling into its self.
> His eyes partially open staring off unblinking into the nights horizon as his body slowly relaxes from its tensed state.
> Laying silently on the floor in his final resting position, his wings slightly unfurl more from their already limp state.
> The silverish moonlight reflects from them casting bent dark light across your face as you release the spear you held down.
 
> You feel your own wings tucked slightly harder than usual into your sides while you stare at his destroyed corrupted remnants of wings.
> This won't happen to you.
> It wont...
/\/\/\/\/\/\
 
> You are Big Mac
> Why are you so tired.
> And weak.. why are you weak?
> You're always strong.
> For everypony.
> Are you even awake right now?
> Everything seems so hazy.
> But you are comfortable..
> So comfortable..
> Maybe you'll just.. relax for a while more.
> You do deserve it right?
> You work tirelessly day in and out..
> What's a few more hours...
> You begin to feel your body calm.
> The feeling of warmth keeping you nice and snug.
> ..You do deserve this..
> The scent of something sweet catches your nose.
> Is that?..
> It is.
> Granny Smith's apple pie.
> Your stomach grumbles.
> "We think your time asleep has kept your belly empty, Big Mac." A female voice echos gently.
> Confusion grips you as you find yourself unable to speak.
> "Hard working, faithful brother, grandson and loyal friend. Surely you deserve time off. But your friends and family are concerned about you, Big Mac."
> Concerned about what?
> You're just sleeping.
> You.. are sleeping.. right?
> Or are you losing it.
> An image of a flowing starry maned midnight blue Alicorn begins to materialize from the hazy darkness with a wide spread elegant open wing span..
> Along with it an image of your families orchard in a starry night landscape.
> Full trees of bright red apples ready for harvesting as far as you can see.
> Apple Bloom's Cutie Mark Crusaders club house not far off, and your house off a short distance as well.
> You're home.
 
> Her closed eyes open, as her comforting teal eyes look upon you with a gentle smile.
> " Our loyal Big Mac. Your friend Anonymous worries for you. The hours you perceive have been days."
> Anonymous?!
> " Wake up" Her whisper echos incessantly, louder than a whisper should be.
> The image of home, your orchard and entire landscape begins to collapse.
> Looking back to her beginning to become alarmed at what's happening you see her mouth once more "Wake up"
> Silence and darkness once more take anchor of your senses.
> A hissing sound and steady beeps enter your sense of hearing, slightly muffled.
> A nagging light outside of your closed eyes begins to rouse you from your comfort.
> Squeezing your eyes closed for a short moment they open very slightly.
> Your sore eyes are greeted by the beginnings of a rising sun, the retreating purple and dark blue hues giving way to rising yellow and oranges.
> On your side sharing your bed, a tiny sleeping Apple Bloom shuffles.
> To your left, a sleeping Apple Jack, using her hat to block light.
> And in a chair to your right a sleeping Granny Smith, leaned back sleeping as if she were in her rocker on the porch at the barn.
> A blanket keeps you tucked in and warm as you notice various other treats and balloons around you.
> Your eyes turn to the rising sun now breaking the plane.
> You're sore, you're thirsty and a little confused.
> But you're awake.
> And you're with your family.
 
> You are Twilight Sparkle
> Your tired red eyes stare out of a grand balcony window watching the day fight off the night.
> Random sparce bird chirps begin to fill the still morning air as small breezes gently wave the sheer curtains to the side of the balcony.
> Sleep seems to have evaded you yet again.
> There were no more tears that your body could produce as you lay limp in your empty bed looking unkempt and exhausted.
> With each passing second the feeling of helplessness presses upon you more and more.
> You yearned for things to be back to how they were.
> To have the warm, loving embrace of your husband behind you right now.
> His hands on your body tracing every detail on you as you both comfortably lay while you catch up on each others day, or just whisper sweet nothings into eachothers ears while you remain tangled, lost in eachothers touch.
> Back to the picture perfect life that not even your sister in law Cadence could have done better..
> But you broke things.
> No matter how logically you try to rationalize it, you broke it..
> You were selfish, you were stupid and it disgusted you.
> How could you be so inconsiderate  to his feelings.. his trust.. his love.
> All of it gone.. for a few bouts of fun that you were .. guilted into 'for old times sake'.
> What you would do to make it right..
> A knock on the door perks your ears, but otherwise you remained motionless.
> The slow creek of it opening echos in your silent room.
> " My Princess? May I enter?" Words of concern fall onto your ears.
> You didn't need to look.
> You knew it was Shield Oath. .
> He was always so overprotective of you.
> A sentiment that you suppose you could appreciate, but became annoying at times.
> Hoof steps continue to approach despite your lack of answer.
> A castle servant is in tow as they approach your bed, both wearing a look of concern.
> Still remaining motionless, you only listen.
 
> "My Princess, I must insist you eat. We can't have you falling ill." He motions for the servant to leave the serving tray on a night stand next to the bed.
> He does so silently and exits as such.
> Shield Oath remains by your bed side.
> He reminds you of your brother..
> White coat, over protecting and all..
> Only his personality leaves alot to be desired.
> You wish Shining was here...
> His impeccable gold armor catches rays of the rising sun reflecting and bending them to the wall in hues of yellow.
> Your stomach growls as your eyes shift from out of the window to the tray of assorted breads and fruits.
> You really haven't eaten, simply because you weren't able to hold anything down.
> Your last meal being with..
> A feeling of your stomach tensing causes you to curl into yourself slightly, remembering your last interaction with Anonymous..
> Your bite into his pancakes..
> Him fixing your mane..
> The shyness he invoked from you.
> It was as if things were almost normal just for a while.
> A little moment that you savor.
> And fear begins to grip you as you begin to think that this might be the last memory you have with him.
> "My Princess.. I can only imagine the difficulty your are experiencing. But starving will certainly not solve anything."
> A red aura grips the tray and gently rests it on the bed near you.
"I don't deserve this.." your dry voice says with little energy.
> "Of course you don't Princess. Why, you deserve much better.. "
> You turn to him slightly waiting for him elaborate.
> "You deserve a Prince who would stay by your side regardless of~" he attempts to duck as you cut him off by sending some apple slice projectiles flying at him with your magic.
> Standing on your bed quickly with wide enraged eyes, gritted teeth and snorting audibly with your exhales, you shout at him.
"I was talking about the food! Don't you EVER speak ill of Anonymous! Now get out!"
> He stares mouth agape in shock, "B-but Princess! I-I-i only meant. ."
 
"OUT!" You bark at him pointing at the door with with a hoof.
> "a..as you wish, Princess" he says in a defeated tone, as his apple stained armor clanks while he turns and leaves.
> How dare he speak of your love in such a way!
> Even.. if he might not.. love you back at this very moment...
> ...You collapse back on the bed as your heart ache reignites.
> The door creaks once more.
"I said get out!"
> "Excuse you?" The squeaky indignant rasp of your friend Rainbow Dash sounds from the entrance way.
> Lifting your head momentarily to see, you drop your head heavily back into the pillow.
"S-sorry..." is all you offer..
> Rainbow Dash takes a slow stroll to your bed side looking around taking in the mess and smell that is your room.
> Her nose scrunches after a moment.
> "I-it's not like you to be so... sloppy.. and ..stinky. It smells worse than the Wonderbolts locker room Twi." She stops at your bed side.
> You probably could use a shower..
" Thanks Dash.." you mumble.
> Her lips push together realizing she could have kept that to herself while she momentarily looks away.
> "Yeeaaaa.. Anyway.. Word has been going around that you haven't been doing so well.. Soo.. I thought I would stop in and say hi.. "
 
"..Hi.." you glance to her then back out the balcony entrance.
> You just don't have the desire to small talk.
> " Hi..." She responds dejectedly.
> "Okay.. well you're clearly not in the mood to talk.. So I'll just be out with it. I don't know why you decided to do what you did to Anonymous.."
> It feels as if a knife twists in your heart as you avoid eye contact.
> " But you did... It was wrong. It was selfish...You've hurt all of us by hurting our friend, and lying to us... I'm not here to tell you it's okay, or that I, or any pony else forgives you. But... You still are my friend Twi.. And I can't let you sit here and self destruct.. Besides you look like you've been punishing yourself enough.. Now go take a shower and pick up that dress you had Rarity make you." Her voice is stern but not demeaning.
> Dress?..
" What.. Dress?.."
> "The one you asked her to make for you? I don't know, that stuff is lame." She picks a piece of toast from your tray and takes a mouth full bite from it.
> The only dress you asked for was for the visit Cadence and Shining were going to. .take ..to..
> Sweet Celestia!
> That was today!?
 
> You are Luna.
> Your own snore roused you from your restful nap.
> Your pillow is moving..
> Why is your pillow moving?
> Raising your head with groggy eyes you realize you slept atop a still undressed and sleeping Anonymous.
> Your head was on his bare chest.
> His arm gently laid across your withers holding you to him.
> Your light blue natural mane is decorated with a sloppy bed head look.
> You find a smile forming on your face.
> This could be a dream right now...
> Waking in the arms of your love after the night you shared.
> Just for a moment,  you lay your head back down on his chest.
> The comfort of the slight rise and fall of his chest with his breaths, and the sound of his heart beat, causes your eyes to close.
> With a small hum of your own, you snuggle lightly into him.
> You should let him sleep though.
> He hasn't slept in a bed in a long time apparently.
> With a quiet snap, you stand beside the bed in time to watch his arm drop to his own chest.
> He grumbles something while turning to his side snuggling into the blanket.
> It's strange watching him sleep in this way.
> Usually you joined him in his dreams.
> But you have alot to take care of today..
> Beginning with your sister..
> You'll have to steel your nerves for this whole day..
> With a sigh and another quiet snap,  you find yourself standing infront of your sisters bedroom door.
"Oh stars.. here we go.." you say before a deep inhale.
> Coffee would have been nice first but with the sun already as bright as it is..
> A few knocks on her door let her know you're outside.
> " Yes?" She calls out from inside.
"I..It's us Tia.."
> "..come in"
> You push the large door open with a hoof.
> "Oh my dearest sister. So have you remembered we have guests today? I figured you were too lost in your rut session to remember." She says with a passive aggressive tone and smile.
> She seems almost ready for the day.
 
> Her clean coat had a brilliant sheen to it while a brush gripped in her aura was brushing her still long pink mane.
> A blush takes your cheeks.
"At least we remember to knock before intruding on others business.. Dear sister.."
> Your sister matches your blush as an awkward silence is shared.
> " So... is this the stallion you mentioned? Or have you found another?" She says in a more curious, sisterly tone.
> Uhg...
> How do we answer this..
" It is the same.. one.. We have not found another. Do you suggest we are that promiscuous?" A touch of offense enters your last sentence.
> " Of course not dearest sister! In fact I didn't think you had it in you until I saw.. well.. the dark side of the moon so to speak." she places a hoof over her mouth stifling a giggle.
> Your jaw drops and eyes widen slightly at her choice of wording as your blush turns fully red.
> "I do hope I get to meet him soon. Perhaps you can convince him to stay and join us?"
> Your heart feels as if it skips a beat.
"Of.. of course.. We'll speak to him, We don't see it being a.. big.. issue.."
> A forced smile crosses your mouth.
 
> "Outstanding! I can't wait." Her mane flows outward as if a gust gave it life, before her signature flowing multi color mane flashed and began to wave with a life of its own.
"J..Just promise us you won't embarrass us, or him.." your voice sends a sence of nervousness.
> " Why ever would I do that?"
"And promise us you'll keep an open mind.. We care about him alot." Your calm request almost comes of pleading.
> She raises an eyebrow, "Of course Luna. We are happy for you, all joking aside. Is there.. something I need to know? Your requests are strange."
"Well.. no.. maybe.. Why don't we have an early lunch before anypony arrives." You do your best to contain your anxiety but you catch your hoof rubbing your foreleg as you speak.
> "Of course. How exciting, he has you all flustered he must be quite the stallion! "
> Your painful smile remains.
"That he is.."
> "Oh and Luna? "
"Hm?"
> "You might want to fix your mane a little.."
 
> You are Princess Celestia.
> You watch your sister nervously raise a hoof to her mane as she tries to mask a look of embarrassment.
> "We just woke up.. W..We'll make sure that we are ready for lunch.." she shuffles back towards the door as you watch with an entertained smile.
" Oh, Luna?"
> " What?.."
> Your smile grows some what more devious.
"Soo.. How was it?" You feign innocence in your tone as your question lingers for a moment.
> Her look of embarrassed shock takes over her expression.
> "T..That's hardly appropriate Tia!" She says while shuffling back towards the door.
" Oh come on!" You try to insist.
> She backs up until her flank bumps into the door frame causing her to jump a little.
> "Tia! No! This is what I was talking about!" Her blush is bright as day.
" That good hmm?"
> Her cheeks puff as she looks away.
"Oh my. Good for you Luna!"
> "Tia ssttoopp." She whines with wide desperate eyes, almost like she used to when she was younger.
> Your smile warms.
"In all seriousness, I am happy for you. If not a little jealous."
> Her embarrassment fades slightly.
> "Just.. remember what we asked.." she says unusually quiet.
"Of course Luna. I'm sure everything will be fine." You reassure her.
> Finally, she smiles slightly.
> With a quick snap she exited with a teleport, probably back to her room..
> With her awaiting coltfriend..
> Snuggled tightly in bed..
> Your own smile fades to a barely  lingering grin.
> Maybe you were more than a little jealous..
> Your empty room remains silent as you scan it with a quiet sigh.
> You turn back to the mirror you were brushing your mane at and catch the almost saddened look on your face.
> After a moment of examining yourself you speak to no one forcing a smile.
"Okay. Time to make sure things are in order."
> Keeping yourself busy usually helps to keep your mind off of.. things..
 
> You are Rainbow Dash
> You chew away at the toast you stole off of Twilight's breakfast tray.
> Screw it.
> You're hungry.
> It's too hard to be totally awesome on an empty stomach.
> More importantly though, if you were chewing, you didn't have to speak to Twilight..
> You really don't want to be here.. at all..
> It took alot of pleading and guilting from Rarity to get you to come.
> And it's taking alot more self restraint than you originally thought, from saying everything that you wanted to.
> Apple Jack had the right of it at the hospital.
> What right does she have to know anything about Anon anymore.
> She went behind his back.
> She snuck around.
> She lied... horribly.. to all of you
> She cheated on a good person..
> Such a break of trust and dedication was disgusting to you.
/ \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \
(Memory snippet)
> You are [still] Rainbow Dash
> And you and Rarity are leaving the hospital after a visit to Big Mac.
> "Because she is still your... our.. friend Rainbow.. that's why..."
"How can you even say that? After what she did?.. It's horrible! " You retort angrily while flapping several feet from the floor along side Rarity.
> "I won't argue that point dear. It was simply dreadful." She over exaggerated her last words.
" So why should I have to go check up on her?! You go!" Your voice unintentionally higher than normal.
> " Darling I spoke with her already earlier.. Poor Fluttershy got blamed by her, Apple Jack is in no condition,  and Pinkie just found out she got used. It's your responsibility as a friend to at least make sure she's okay. It's easy to be friends when everything is going nice and peachy, but it's when times are at their worst that a real, Loyal friend steps up." She emphasizes the word loyal.
 
> Uhhgg..
> With the guilt trip...
"Rarity, that's a bunch of reasons why I shouldn't be going. She tried to blame Fluttershy... FLUTTERSHY! for her getting caught!" Your hooves raise in frustration.
> "She was probably just lashing out.." she looks away.
"And Pinkie, how do you use Pinkie Pie?" You cross your forelegs as you flap along.
> " I'm sure she has a reason, that to her wasnt... 'using her'"
"Apple Jack is right you know.." you say in a matter of fact tone.
> "Yes darling, I know.. But that's not what she needs to hear right now. I'm not saying to forgive her, I would be lying if I said I did. But just check up on her and let her know she's not alone. And let her know that I have her dress ready for the~~"
> You stop paying attention after 'dress'.
> Bleh..
> Uhgg, you don't want to do this.
> But you suppose it would be hypocritical not to at least check up on her...
> Like a good friend would...
> Even though she was being a terrible one..
> You huff in annoyance.
/ \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \
> Twilight seems to snap from her silent train of thought, breaking your little memory.
> "I.. I need to get ready. Anon could still be there" she says sounding desperate.
"Wait.. what?.."
> Anon could still be where?
> And why should she care anymore.
> "Canterlot!" She shuffles out of bed.
"For what?..."
> She pauses and turns to you, "To.. get a divorce.. Hopefully Cadence won't let him and I can~"
" Woah woah...woah.." you say with a hoof up towards her.
 
> She glances from your hoof back up to you looking confused.
" Anon is in Canterlot.. To get a divorce.. Because of.. 'What happened' and you're going to stop him?" Your patience with the situation beginning to slip.
> "W..well.. ya. And my brother is going to visit there with Cadence.." She says as if re-examining her plan.
"And you don't see why that isn't a good idea?"
> ". ..no?" She seems baffled.
"Twi.. You cheated on him... He caught you in the act of getting rutted.. He wants a divorce, and honestly I can't say I blame him."
> " E....excuse me? " Her tone suggesting she is insulted with wide shocked eyes.
"What would you do if it was the other way around? If you caught him in the act with somepony else... While he told you he was doing work somewhere."
> " I.. I don't know what I would do but~"
"But nothing Twilight!" You move to stand infront of her starting to lose your cool.
"I came here to make sure that you were okay. Thats it! I'm telling you that nopony thinks what you did was acceptable. You hurt us all. A lot.  Especially poor Anonymous." You begin to passionately rant.
> "And I want to make it right! " She pleads.
"No! You want to make it normal! If you wanted to make it RIGHT, you would respect his wishes! You can't stand the fact that you got caught. That everypony knows that you weren't faithful to Anonymous. That you snuck around lying to your friends and husband so you could get a fix of Flash. That~" The feeling of a hoof slapping across your face halts your sentence as you look away.
> Your cheek begins to tingle and eyes sting.
> Twilight's red teary eyes pierce you as she breaths shakily behind sniffles.
> "I.. will" she sniffles some more "Fix it! Luna can NOT.. have my husband!"
> Luna?..
 
> You stare at her for a moment, in shock that she just did that to you,  considering striking her back.
"..You're not worth it.." you give her a rough shove back instead sending her shuffling back slightly.
> You begin to rise as your wings flap, as you choke back an emotional angry sob.
"I don't know who you are anymore Twilight.. But what I do know is this new you, is disgusting.." with that you turned and flew from her open balcony window with stinging red eyes that begin to well.
> You won't cry though.
> She's not worth it..
 
> You are Anon.
> And it feels like your body is fused to a floating cloud that cradles every contour of your tired frame.
> Sleep was not difficult for once.
> Perhaps it's the incredible bed, or your exhaustion from the events of the past day.
> Maybe it's who you're spending the time in bed with.
> With a lazy effort somewhat roused to a state of half consciousness by an insistent sun on your closed eyes, you move your arm to run your hand along Luna's withers.
> She seems more... fluffy than usual
> And..soft.
> Wait that's not right..
> With your face buried into the pillow, you turn with a tired groan, so one eye can see.
> Your arm pats across from you, landing on nothing but cool fluffy sheets.
> And again..
> After a moment you lift your head looking across a giant, messy, empty bed.
> Sitting up with a prolonged stretch with your hands in fists over your head, accompanied by a yawn, you begin to scan the room.
> Shes.. gone?
> Where did she go?..
> Pivoting out of bed you plod with heavy tired feet, in all your naked glory to your clothes.
> Scooping them up you head to the bathroom.
> You still have to do some.. uncomfortable things today..
> Might as well take the time to shower.
> 'You aren't beginning to.. doubt our decision.. are you?' An unwelcome voice enters your thoughts.
".. No.." you say to no one with a tired morning rasp.
> Entering the bathroom you pull the door mostly closed behind you leaving a small gap.
 
> You are Luna.
> 'We can not wait to see the look on your sisters face.'
"Yes we can.. This does not amuse us.."
> "P...Princess? Your coffee?" A nervous server practically trembles as you sit at a small table in the back kitchen area, apparently talking to yourself.
> You unintentionally shoot him a look of annoyance as if he interrupted your conversation.
> He flinches at your glance.
> Gripping the caffeine goodness in your aura you attempt to relax.
"Our thanks, server." You sip the hot heavily sweetened java as he scurried off.
> It already makes you feel as if you're waking up.
> It helps with these sleepless days that your.. dearest sister fails to comprehend..
> You definitely need this before you tell your dear Anonymous that you may have volunteered him to a lunch with Tia.
> 'Right to the lions den with your new boy toy then?'
"That isn't true. We shall be accompanying him throughout everything."
> You nervously sip away at your coffee.
> Your .. ' Nightmare' .. tended to be more outspoken when you were exhausted.
> 'We're confident that Celestia will be most understanding as you sit next to her prized pupils husband' the last few words become infected with laughter.
> You tap a nervous hoof to the table as you quickly finish off your cup of coffee.
"I..It's going to be fine.. She promised.." you sound as if you were trying to convince the both of you.
> More laughter was the only response you received.
> ...She did promise..
> Throwing a hoof in the air you call out to the server.
"We require more coffee!"
 
> You are Anon
> And damnit are you tired.
> Holding your hand to the falling water from the shower head you fiddle with the hot and cold handles finding just the right temperature.
> Stepping in you let out a sigh as the warm water begins to run over your head and run down your body rinsing the night before from you.
> You look up into the falling water and let it run over your face with closed eyes.
> What are you supposed to say to Cadence... To Shining..
> Hey your sister and sister in law is an adulterous bitch who snuck behind my back and broke my heart?
> And oh by the way the pegasus she cheated on me with is bent on killing me?
> Why did they have to be in charge of this stuff.
> This all could have been avoided if Twilight  didn't...
> You halt your thinking as your eyes fix on the water circling the drain.
> 'If Twilight didn't betray you..' The bass echos in your ears
> Why is this happening now..
"Yes.. Thank you for the reminder.. I had completely forgotten." Annoyance apparent in your voice.
> 'Well, how soon we like to forget. We need to remember, because forgetting does not make our problems go away...'
"Will YOU go away.."
> 'Heh heh.. young "man".. now why would I want to do that?..'
 
> You are Luna [again]
> A few cups of coffee always helped you get back on track.
> Standing,  you take a few steps from the table that holds your several empty mugs of over sweetened coffee.
> Your server peeks from around the corner hiding his amazement at your caffeine ingestion.
"We thank you once more bringer of coffee!" You say energetically with a raised hoof before leaving with a snap.
> As much as Tia was annoyed by it, it humored you to mess with the servers from time to time.
> Appearing in your bedroom with outstretched wings, and a stretch you notice that the bed is empty.
"A..anon?" You scan the area around the bed.
> His clothes are missing from the floor as well.
> Your slightly saddened eyes takes a quick scan of your entire room.
> D..did he leave?..
> 'Maybe he caught wind of your little lunch plans.' Laughter once more follows causing you to frown.
> Your heart sinks as you sit up on the bed.
> You were only gone for a little bit..
> Why would he..
> A bit of steam exiting from a slightly cracked open bathroom door catches your eye.
> Oh!
> You perk up almost instantly.
> Hopping off the bed you make your way to the bathroom door.
> As you get closer you could swear you hear a voice.
> Reaching the door you slowly push it open with a raised eyebrow.
> "Because I'm tired of hearing you!" He sounds frustrated.
> With a quick glance left and right you confirm he is the only one in here.
> "No weee don't need to do anything. III need to..."
> You knew what was inside him all along, or at least the potential.. but it was strange to see him act like this.
> You suppose you have a glimpse of what every other pony saw in you.
> Biting your lip slightly wondering if you should say something, you slowly enter.
"Anon?.. Is everything alright?"
> His voice is instantly silenced and the only sound you hear is the steady flow of water coming from the shower.
 
> Mild anxiety runs through you at his lack of answer.
> You have caught small glimpses of him once or twice when he was, what you assume, losing control of the very thing you tried to warn him of.
> It is definitely something new for you to be on the other side of this struggle.
> A struggle you knew all to painfully well.
> A struggle you wanted to save your beloved Anonymous from..
> You can recall the horror you felt, as you felt the very control of your own body and thoughts slip away from you.
> Left to wonder what you were doing, who were you harming.
> Or conversely, the most satisfying feeling when that strength was able to help when the situation called for it.
" Anon?.."
> You take a few more steps towards the shower.
> The steam beginning to fill most of the room making it slightly difficult to see.
"Anon." You say more sternly, dropping your comfortable tone you have become accustomed to using with him.
> You stand directly outside of his shower.
> Hearing the water land differently from his shifting weight, you figure that he is moving.
> " Huh?"
> ..There was no way he didn't hear you.
"..are you alright. We were calling you." You try to take a peek in the small opening of the ornately woven shower curtain.
> "Oh, ya. We're fine..." he pokes his head out offering a generic smile as water drips from his chin.
> Without you realizing, your eyes narrow slightly at him.
"No... 'we' don't think so..." you emphasize the word to let him know you caught it this time.
 
> "Don't be silly, I'm fine." He pulls his head back into the shower.
> He begins to whistle some sort of tune as he cleans himself.
> He's trying so hard to appear normal, that it's not... normal..
"So it's 'i'm' fine now?" You give him a stern retort.
> The whistling stops as he pauses for a moment, "I know what you're getting at... I'M.. fine" Annoyance entering his voice.
"We thought that we were fine as well Anonymous... my dear.. Look where that got us.. Don't be afraid to let us help you with this problem.." you attempt to sound comforting, as your concern begins to grow.
> He pokes his head outside of the shower again not pretending to smile anymore.
> He replies with a biting sharpness, "I tell you what.. Why don't you let me deal with one life devastating experience at a time. Then maybe we... I can tackle another..."
> His tone makes you take a step back as a look of shock takes your expression.
> You.. were only trying to help..
> D..did you try too hard?
> Perhaps you got to comfortable too quick..
> Upsetting him was the last thing you wanted to accomplish, but clearly just did.
> The flood of thoughts, and an overwhelming feeling of embarrassment makes your eyes sting.
> Composing your self after a small inhale and a long blink, you posture a straight stance and a slightly raised chin, as you evenly reply.
"Very well Anonymous.. We only intended to help you."
> That came out more.. professional and cold than you intended, but it was better than the over emotional outburst you would have given if you didn't take a second.
> Before he could say anything you walked calmly towards the exit of the room and gently closed the door behind you all while his eyes followed you.
> You continue towards the bed you just shared with him and climb up, all while maintaining the Royal presence you exuded while out in public.
> The facade that you so hated.
> The one you were able to let down around Anonymous..
> You feel a frown form as you think.
 
> How could you help him if he won't let you?
> And if you try too hard will he even stay ...'with' you?
> Your eyes continue to sting as you begin to bury your face in the sheets.
/ \ / \ / \ / \ / \
> You are Anon.
> Your eyes close as Luna begins to leave the room.
> Your nerves are fried from the lack of sleep and frustration was overwhelming you from this voice.. this.. Sombra..
> There was enough going on as it was without her.. prodding into your personal issues..
> Especially this one.
> It made you feel as if you were going insane.
> Talking about, what you felt like was a mental issue, made you feel like less of a man..
> It was your problem..
> You'll deal with it... no one needs to know or think you're losing your mind ontop of everything else.
> And the line up of today doesn't help.
> You have to divorce your wife.
> Or start the process of it anyway..
> The whole idea of doing this forces your thoughts to why it has to be done in the first place.
> Betrayal, pain, loss of trust.
> All from a mare that you thought would be the very last one in all of Equestria to cause you those feelings.
> Your hands brace against the wall as you look down letting the water hit your back.
> The weight of having to do this all alone begins to press heavy on your shoulders.
> And Luna wasn't helping at the moment.
> With her.. questioning right now.
> Lowering the heat handle of the shower, colder water runs over your body cooling you off.
> A sigh escapes you as you feel your body temperature drop slightly.
> Beginning to re examine your words and actions, guilt starts to creep into you.
> You did kind of snap at her...
> And you really didn't mean to..
" Shit..."
> You press your forehead to the cool shower wall.
> As frustrated as you were, you're realizing now that she was only trying to help.
> Like she has from the very beginning.
> After a moment you rinse off and exit the shower wrapping an oversized towel around your lower waist.
> You need to apologize.
> Immediately...
 
> Exiting the bathroom, along with the escaping steam from the open door, you take a few steps towards her bed.
"Luna.." your voice is humbled and quiet.
> She appears to be rubbing her face adruptly with a foreleg.
> Is she.. was she.. crying?..
> Her head raises after a small sniff.
> A pink hue accompanied her gorgeous teal eyes that look back to you.
"I..." you choke on your words.
> Good god you made her cry...
> What a piece of shit you are...
> You make your way to her bed, the weight of guilt heavy on your towel clad body.
"I'm.. so.. so sorry..." your voice almost saddened.
> "It's okay, we unders~"
"No its absolutely not okay. I over reacted because I got overwhelmed.."
> After a small sniff she replies,  "We understand.. Truly. That's what we were trying to tell you. Its what we have been trying warn you of. We know what's happening because we experienced something similar."
> That would make sence... but it was still no excuse for your outburst.
"Still.. It doesn't excuse me from taking anything out on you.. How can I make it up to you?"
> " Oh we can think of a few things." She manages to reply with some laughter infused with her words.
> She smiles sheepishly after a small sniffle.
> You feel your smile match hers.
> Patting the bed next to where you take a seat, you signal for her to scoot over to you.
> She does, sitting up beside you.
> Looking into your eyes with a small smile, she places a hoof to your chest, and a gentle kiss to your lips.
> You happily reciprocated it.
> With your hand running up her neck and circling around her ear, you ask once more.
"Seriously, let me make it up to you. After you let me stay here and gave me a night like last night, I don't want to be ungrateful."
> She places a hoof to her chin for a moment looking like she's coming up with some sort of master plan.
> "Weelllll..."
> Oh boy.. that never means anything good.
> "There is one thing" her smile is wide but her eyes suggest apprehension.
 
> You are Luna
> And you just explained your lunch plans to Anonymous.
> Who seems to be taking it better than you expected.
> "W..What!?" He arcs back.
> Yup. Alot better than you thought.
> He's still here!
" It wont be so bad! She's going to find out you're here anyway. It might as well be when it's just us three instead of when Cadence and Shining get here too."
> " Luna.. She's going to send ME to the moon!" Panic is evident on his expression.
> You hoof at the bed you sit on looking down.
"But you told us that you would make things up to us." You display a small pout.
> " th-thats not fair!" He points at you.
> Your pout becomes more dramatic as your eyes sadden.
> "That's not going to work!" He stands up crossing his arms.
~~~~~
> You are Luna [still]
> And you walk out of your bedroom door with a triumphant smile.
> Following closely behind is your dear Anonymous, with freshly pressed and cleaned clothing.
> His face displays a sense of defeat.
> " Gah!" You hear from behind you.
> Turning you see  Anon is down on his knee on the floor, in a puddle of what appears to be.. tea?.. coffee?.. both?
> "What the hell?.." he rises shaking the liquid from his hands.
> You raise an eyebrow as you kick a tea cup with a hoof away.
" W..we don't know.." your eyes shift recalling slamming your door shut.
> " It's on my knee.. " he says staring at it.
"Okay. We will stop near the kitchen to get a napkin before meeting Tia."
> " Uuhhgg.. How did you talk me into this..."
> You smile warmly turning back to him.
" Because now we have to.. make it up to you" You blush slightly.
> " Oh.." He scratches his head blushing as well looking away.
> You begin your short trek to the kitchen for your dear Anonymous.
> "What am I supposed to do?.. What do I say?.." he says before you playfully bump your flank into his leg.
"Calm down. We'll figure it out. Now stay here." You say as you approach the entrance to the kitchen once more.
 
> You are Anon
> Your heart thumps in your chest and your nerves are worse than they have ever been.
> You felt bad for your outburst at Luna, but this is above and beyond.
> Good thing she sweetened the deal with ~~
> "Anonymous? Is that you?.." A voice questions, approaching down the hall.
> Your shoulders raise as your entire body tenses and you could swear your heart stopped beating.
> Are you dying?
> "Hello? Anonymous? "
> With a shaky inhale your turn and face a flawless white coated multi colored maned, Alicorn.
"O-oh! H-hellooo!" Why was that so loud?
> She smiles warmly, "It's been some time Anonymous! You're early! But I suppose that's Twilight for you. Always punctual.."
> A nervous laugh escapes your mouth as a knife feels as if it's twisting in your heart.
> "Come! Walk with me!" She extends a wing over your shoulder guiding you to follow her.
> You're being abducted!
> Code red!
" I.. I actually.. uh" you do nothing but stammer with her wing draped over your shoulder as she guides you further away from Luna.
> "Where is Twilight anyway?"
/ \ / \ / \ / \
> You are Celestia
> And you walk down the hallway towards an exit that leads to a garden, Anonymous tucked in your wing span.
> It's where you had your smaller more intimate gatherings.
> Anonymous mumbled something after asking where Twilight was.
> You suppose they were still arguing about that dreadful little rumor you heard about.
 
> You won't push the issue.
> But oh how happy you were to be able to catch up with him!
> You felt simply awful at his treatment from his arrival.
> Especially when he turned out to be such a gentle colt... er.. man? Gentleman!
" You wouldn't believe the hour I had to wake up today to get this castle in order! And of course I had almost no help to do it! Remind me to thank Luna" you add a sarcastic tone and eye roll to the last sentence.
> "uh huh.." He holds his smile almost painfully while scanning the area.
> Why does he seem so tense?..
> You both leave the shade of the inside of the castle as the bright afternoons sun casts over you.
"That's more like it.. Come sit!" Your cheeks are high with a smile.
> Anon holds his hand to his forehead to visor the warm rays of the shining sun.
> As you circle around to the other side of a table a short distance into the garden, you extend a hoof to an empty chair offering for him to join you.
> He slowly approaches the chair with a plastic smile.
> While he takes a seat, you notice that his pants are wet around his knee.
> Odd, you offer him a napkin pre set at the table.
"What happened to your knee? Tell me clumsy Twilight spilled something in a rush to be early." You jest with a little jabbing motion with your hoof in his direction.
> "Oh.. I slipped in some tea, or coffee.. I'm not sure."
"Ohh?."
> You do your best to not raise an eyebrow as he wipes away at his pants.
> Tea or coffee?..
> You had a combination of that knocked from your grip earlier this morning..
> Strange.
" Did that happen here?.." you begin to dig.
> He begins to shift uncomfortably.
> " y-yeah.. it's no big deal though!" He waves off your inquiry and continues to clean his knee.
"And where did you say Twilight was?" You attempt to keep an unsuspecting tone.
> He clears his throat, "I uh.. I didnt.." and continues to look down while cleaning his knee.
 
> Uncomfortable pieces begin to fall into place in your head..
"And why is that?" You ask with a frightening calmness.
> He sits up straight taking in a short breath folding his hands on the table, "Because, Princess Celestia.. Twilight~"
> "Tia?" Your sister trots into the garden area confusion leaving her face as concern takes over, while she holds a small towel in her aura.
"Luna.."
> She looks between the both of you and must notice the discomfort on Anonymous.
> "Tia, you said you weren't going to do this to us.." her eyes sadden as she begins to approach the table.
"No I said I wasn't going to make you and your coltfriend uncomfor~"
> She takes a seat beside Anonymous, placing a hoof atop of his folded hands as she looks him over, then whispers something.. closer than a normal whispers distance.
> In an almost intimate manor...
> She begins to wipe the wet spot on his knee with the towel she held.
> You freeze as your jaw begins to slowly drop.
> More uncomfortable pieces begin to fall into place.
> He wasn't walking by her room he was leaving it...
> Twilight and him had a big fallout not too long ago...
> You catch her sneaking in a quick kiss to his cheek as she pulls back away from him and faces you with her own plastic smile.
> By.. The.. Sun...
> "Tia, remember when we asked for you to keep an open mind.."
"Luna... You can NOT... Be serious!" Your eyes are wide with utter disbelief.
> You can't help but to rise to your hooves in shock and bewilderment.
 
> Your mouth moves for a second desperate to rattle off one of many flooding thoughts in your mind.
> But words just don't come out, as you still remained stunned.
> By the burning sun.. you walked in on your sister and Twilight's husband rutting!
> This just isn't happening!
> Why... you should send him to the moon for this!
> Your stare remains one of obvious disapproval looking back and fourth between them.
> Luna's smile begins to fade, her face becoming more serious as she leans closer to Anon almost defensively.
> "You promised..." her eyes become a little more narrow as she speaks through gritted teeth.
" I promised not to embarrass you and your COLT friend. Not you and Twilight's HUSBAND. " you match her stare.
> Anon looks down and away shrinking a little bit at the bite in your response.
"Honestly Luna!? What are you thinking!" You ask with a sence of desperation.
> "We were thinking that Anonymous makes us feel.. Happy.. And we thought you could be happy for us." She answers as even toned as possible, pausing in her speech to find the most appropriate wording.
"He's married Luna! To Twilight!" Annoyance enters your tone becoming frustrated that she isn't comprehending that.
> "Actually I ~" Anon tries to speak up before Luna speaks over him, her volume beginning to increase.
> " And what a terrific wife she has been, hurting our poor Anonymous with her acts of infidelity."
> Anon's head lowers once more at the words.
"That... was only a dirty rumor. I'm sure Anonymous could..." Looking to his face, pain and discomfort plain as day on it, you end your own sentence. > "Sister, it is no rumor. She has betrayed the sacred bond of their marriage. Twilight does not deserve him after what she has done."
 
> This isn't like the Twilight you know.
> The book worm faithful pupil that would do anything to prove her worth to you.
"There must be some kind of misunderstanding.. Twilight would never~" You are interrupted, surprisingly by the so far silent Anonymous.
> " With all due respect... Princess Celestia..." he almost grunts at you with his hands in fists on the table.
> He seems to have enough of others speaking for him.
> You decide to let him continue despite his demeanor.
> "Do not.. suggest there is any misunderstanding. I walked in on her while.." he looks away for a second,  seeming to collect himself before resuming ".. while IT was happening.. Twilight and Flash Sentry. Behind my back, for who knows how long.."
> Your eyes close for a moment at the mention of her old colt friend.
> You do recall him.
> "Who now has made it his personal quest to have me killed.."
> Killed?
" And what proof do you have of this Anonymous..This is a very serious accusation you are making now."
> "He was the one who burned down the Apples barn knowing full well that I was in it. He was on the very train ride I took here to try once more to kill me. It's bad enough that I had to see what I saw. To find out what I did the way I did. To have him coming after me. But don't make it worse by saying that after all that, that I am mistaken. From the time of my arrival to now, Flash has wanted me dead. Claiming I am a beast that needs to be put down. And from the time I arrived here to now, what reason have I ever given you or anypony else to believe that I am a liar. I have been a productive member of Ponyville, a loyal husband, and have made a great deal of close friends. One of which is in a hospital now because of Flash."
> Luna rubs his forearm with a hoof, her softened eyes look to him as she tries to provide comfort to the emotionally charged Anonymous.
> The contact makes you incredibly uneasy even after that story, almost making you cringe.
 
"...Be that as it may, Luna. How did you fall into this mix?"
> "..We wanted to help.. He was going through a very difficult.. unique.. experience. One that can easily overwhelm any pony.."
> You can't help but feel like she left something out with her vagueness.
"Yet all I saw was you helping yourself to him." You offer a jabbing remark.
> This whole situation is still too unsettling to let anything properly sink in.
> "Tia!" She almost yells after a gasp.
> "Princess.." Anonymous says dejectedly at almost the same time still seeming incredibly uncomfortable.
> "Princess Celestia.. I came here today to get a divorce from Twilight. For what she did to me. That's it. I'm not going to ask you to like it, or understand. All I ask is to have my decision respected.. It will be difficult enough to have this conversation again with Shining and Cadence. "
> Sweet solar flares, you forgot they were due here any minute!
> You let out a prolonged sigh with closed eyes and a massaging hoof to your forhead.
"I do not agree with anything happening here.. But I have no control over your decisions Anonymous. And Luna?" Her gaze turns from Anon to you, "We're going to have a serious talk soon.."
> Her brow drops in almost an angry fashion.
> " We are more than willing to discuss anything you wish to discuss. But we will not be scolded dear sister.." you hold glares at each other for a moment.
***
> You are Shining Armor.
"Because you snore in my ear every time you fall asleep on me during a train ride Cadence.."
> " Oh I do not!" Your wife Mi Amore Cadenza gives you a flank bump as you exit a train behind two Crystal Empire Guards who scan the area diligently as they walk.
> Their Crystallized figures shimmer in the bright afternoons sun catching the eyes and adoration of random Canterlot ponies.
"It's like a bear roaring in my ear hun.." you poke fun at her.
> "You seem to be mistaken me with yourself, love." She turns and offers you the gentle eyed smile that you fell in love with.
 
"Maybe.. But you're not far off.." you concede while walking along.
> You both offer a wave or two to the excited smiling ponies enchanted with your arrival.
> "Hmm, I know we're a little early but I figured they would be here to meet us by now." She looks around for any sign of a welcome.
"We dont need a grand welcome, I think it's silly anyway. We can just go there can't we? Did Twily and Anon say they were coming?" Some excitement can be heard in your voice.
> "I'm not sure, but that doesn't give you the ok to run off with Anonymous again if they are coming."
"Uh huhhh..." you front your compliance with her statement.
> You hope they are there, you had enough stuffy proper 'tea parties' and events to attend in the Crystal Empire. > Twilight liked that kind of stuff, but this was supposed to be a chance to relax.
> A chance to tone down the formalities and proper this and that.
> One thing you always did admire about Anonymous is that he never let his title become him.
> He stayed the same, right down to still working at Sweet Apple Acres from time to time.
> A Prince working on a farm.
> Where else could you see that.
> Plus he could drink better than anypony you know.
> Like that one time when you him and Big Mac~
> "Are you listening?" You snap out of your thoughts to your wife staring at you with a raised eyebrow.
 
> Wait, every married pony knows the answer to this question..
"Of course hun!"
> Nailed it.
> She gives you a semi scowl as you continue to walk.
> You offer a wide toothy slightly nervous grin.
"You love me.." you lean into her.
> Smiling she leans back into you, "You're lucky I do you big brute.." she plants a kiss on your cheek.
> *SNAP* "Ooof!" A heap of messy maned purple lands chest and face first into the grass and dirt.
> Your guards snap their spear points down at the dirtied mess on the floor.
> You take a step infront of the obviously startled Cadence.
" Who is that?!" You ready a shielding spell to protect your wife if need be.
> "Identify yourself!" A guard demands.
> Peeking around the side of your defending guards you notice the familiar colors of a tail laid across the floor.
"Is that?.." you walk around the side of them.
> "s-sir?" The guards look nervously to you.
> Using your aura you pull away a piece of the dress that covered it's head and mane.
"Twily?!" You begin to rush to her side.
> Her eyes are closed, mane disheveled and her nose begins to leak droplets of blood that start to cake on the dusty dirt on her snout.
> Cadence joins your side, "What happened?!"
> You lower your body near her shaking her slightly.
"Twily? Can you wake up?? It's your big brother Shining." You do your best to remain calm.
> Cadence begins to clean her nose, "I think she may have been practicing some spell too hard again.."
> Twilight's eyes begin to open slightly,  "uhhg.. Did I make it?.." she dryly rasps out.
"You sure did!" You have no idea what she's talking about.
"Just relax Twily. We'll take care of you." You lift her with your aura laying her across your back.
 
> "Let's get her to the castle." Cadence calmly states.
> Both your horns begin to light and with a loud snap your small entourage is gone towards the castle.
> You are Twilight Sparkle
> The swaying from your brothers back begins to make you relax into sleepiness.
> It took several far teleports and some gliding but you did it..
> This would have been alot easier if you were sleeping and eating well.
> Feeling your eyes close, your body temporarily slips into a brief moment of sleep.
> Oh how you need this...
> "What right do ya have anymore to question what he does or where he is!?" The voice of Apple Jack rings in your mind.
> " You can't stand the fact that you got caught. That everypony knows that you weren't faithful to Anonymous" Rainbow Dashs voice echos as well.
> " Twilight.. How could you do that to Anonymous?.." a crying voice of Pinkie Pie begins to plague your conscious as well.
> The image of Anon's face that's burned into your memory, when he found you, begins to slip to the forefront of your mind.
> With a deep gasp your legs buck as you violently snap out of that haunting moment.
"Anon! I'm so sorry! "
 
> You are Anon
> "We don't need you to tell us what we can and can't do Tia!" Luna rises to her hooves beside you.
> "Well, apparently you still do because you made a poor decision like this!" Celestia motions to you.
> Good thing it didn't awkward or anything...
> You drop your face into your hands and rub your forehead while the two sisters continue to argue like.... sisters.
> For a moment you forgot they're actually god like Alicorns that rule kingdoms, because of their bickering.
> At least you are still in Canterlot and not suffocating on the moon.
> "Even if all that is true Luna, he is STILL. MARRIED" she accents her last two words.
> " How could one sit here and call that a marriage Tia!? He is here with intent to end it! Her little coltfriend has tried to kill him! He succeeded in killing an innocent pony that helped to save him!" Luna begins to explain with dying patience.
> These comments cause you more pain than they realize during their argument.
> Yes you are here to end it..
> Yes a pony.. a friend died because of you...
> But every time it's tossed into an argument it reminds you why it had to be ended.
> It reminds you of your pain.. your loss and guilt.
> It forces you to face a feeling you would rather forget, or escape from..
> "Like you said, dear sister, you have no control over his decisions. And his decision is to divorce Twilight!"
> "If that is his decision, to abandon his end of his vows, then yes you are correct! And an investigation will be ordered in these.. alleged matters. YOU though Luna. YOU are MY sister. I DO have some say in YOUR decisions! And this is a bad one!"
> You shift uncomfortably once more as both their voices raise, stuffing down the anger at Celestia's almost complete disregard to the facts you and Luna just told her.
 
> "You don't know anything Tia! That's why you're so lonely all the time! We may rule the night, we may not have the interactions you have throughout the day, but we know loneliness when we see it. One thousand years of solitude on the moon can help you notice it,  And you" she points her hoof at Celestia " Are alone. You will not keep us from being happy, or keep us alone again! We love him! And you can not change that!" Her passion quickly melts as she begins to re examine her words.
> Celestia's jaw drops as she flinches like she was just struck, obviously speechless at the personal dig her sister just made.
> Or was it from her saying she loved you?
> Wait, did she just say she loved you?..
> Your eyes turn to Luna who quickly looks away from you realizing what she just shouted.
> A heavy blush forms on her cheeks as her panicked expression looks to the floor away from you.
> "Luna... I.. how could you say that.." Celestia looks clearly upset by her rant.
> Now is probably as good a time as any to take your leave...
> You quietly push your hands against your knees leaning foward to a standard position.
> "A-Anonymous.. my dear?" Luna turns to you timidly.
"I am going to.. respectfully take my leave of this conversation.. It sounds like the two of you need to talk alone..
Celestia, I came here to make my intentions of getting a divorce clear. I'm sorry you don't approve, but I appreciate your respect of my decision.." your tone is calm considering the unfolding situation.
> Turning to leave, Celestia's voice stops you.
> "Anonymous.. " you pause turning back to her, pain evident in her voice.
> "...Do you.. Love my sister as well?" It almost pains her to say it, yet she looks genuinely interested in your answer.
> But it's a question that catches you completely off guard.
> Are you ready to say something like that and mean it?
> She was there for you every step of the way making sure you were comforted at every turn.
 
> To listen to you, save you, provide escape.
> She liked Vinyl Scratch, which was a big plus in your book
> Hell.. she got you steak!
> You catch yourself smiling as you face Luna, thinking over if you actually do love her.
> She appears nervous for a response, her shining teal eyes desperate for your words, knowing she may have blurted that prematurely.
> You turn back to Celestia with a warm smile on your face.
" Yea, I do Princess Celestia. Your sister is an amazing mare. I don't think I would have made it without her." You turn back to the smiling, teary eyed Luna.
> You extend your hand to her cheek and gently brush your thumb across it.
> She quietly leans her head into it as she always does.
> Celestia watches intently and silently as you brush a welling tear of happiness away from her cheek.
> "I see.." is all she has to offer in a quiet voice.
> Leaning towards Luna as she does her best to control her beaming smile, you place a small quick kiss to her cheek.
"Like you said, everything is going to be fine. We'll figure it out.."
> She simply nods with a little sniffle finding resolve in your words.
> Taking a step back, you face Celestia once more giving her your own small nod as you head back to the castle entrance a short distance away.
> You hear the sound of Celestia's voice you suppose speaking to Luna but you had enough of this conversation as you walk through the door entering the shade of the hallway.
> Without any warning as you turn the corner, you feel a great impact into your stomach robbing you of the air in your lungs.
> You buckle to your knees holding your stomach.
> Grunts and staggered inhales are the only sounds that you are able to make.
> Flash?
> How was he able to..
> You begin to force your eyes up and your hands to a guard position.
> Yet as you raise your eyes a white coated unicorn stares furiously back at you.
 
"Sh-Shining?" You cough heavily.
> "Luna?! You love Luna?! I heard you Anonymous! " he pulls another hoof back delivering a heavy punch into your raised guard.
> Shit that still hurts..
> Fucking hooves!
"Stop! I-its not what it sounds like!"
> "What else can it sound like Anon!" He delivers a quick punch to your ribs.
"Uunf!.. Shit man will you stop!" You won't fight him.
> He doesn't understand.
> Well.. you don't think he does...
> You have no idea who told him what.
> 'I see we have become the punching bag of Equestria..' a humored bass fills your mind.
> You grunt at yourself.
> "How could you do this to Twily! I trusted you!" His outburst is quite emotional as he delivers several more punches into your guard aiming for your head.
> "You were supposed to be my brother!" He grunts out as he unleashes blow after blow.
> 'Fight him Anonymous...' You feel the voice charge your body with growing aggression.
"No!" You defiantly shout as you try to roll with his barrage of punches.
> "No, What!" Shining barks at you.
> 'No?... So you will simply let him kill us here? It's is a wonder you're still alive at all...' the disapproval is abundant in his voice.
"I won't fight him!" You make fists that push into the floor refusing to attack.
> You would rather risk him killing you than to harm Shining.
> There's no way you could stomach another innocent getting hurt because of you..
> Shining seems confused for a moment as he hesitates.
> "Makes things easier for me, you scum bag!" He draws a hoof back that is delivered to the side of your head with an audible thud impact.
> Your vision blurs as it sends you to your side dazed on the floor.
> Laying on your side you feel warmth begin to drip down the side of your face.
"Shining.." you gasp for some air.  "Will you let me talk!"
 
> You are Cadence.
> And Twilight has been doing alot of mumbling in her sleep.
> Lying in the bed of a guest room, she continues to toss and turn, kicking off the blankets you keep placing back on top of her.
> "Anon. . . Please. .." she returns to her unintelligible mumbles, tossing to her side.
> At one point a few tears roll from her closed eyes as she curled into herself.
> You brush some messy mane away from her face with a hoof as you keep an eye on her.
> She doesn't seem to be.. alright.
> Magic exhaustion, while apparent, doesn't explain her unkempt appearance and her restlessness.
> Waiting for Shining to come back with somepony, you keep your concerned watch on the poor exhausted Twilight.
> Gently you clean the last of the drying blood from her nose with a damp cloth.
> At least that stopped.
> She should know better than that by now..
> "uhhg...Luna.. you cant... " she grumbles turning to her other side, "Anon. .."
> Luna?..
> Why would she be mentioning her and Anon?.
> Maybe she's having a nightmare.
"Twilight sweetie.." You try to gently shake her with a hoof.
> She let's out a tired groan and sleepily swats at your hoof.
"Wake up Twilight.. it's me, Cadence." You try to sound comforting to ease her into consciousness.
"Twilight..." you shake her once more.
> She kicks with her hind legs simultaneously with a large gasp.
> You arc back, startled not expecting that.
> "Anon! I'm so sorry! " She pants heavily and puts her hooves over her face for a moment.
> You place a hoof to her shoulder letting her know you're here.
"Sorry for what Twilight? " you give her a few comforting strokes across her shoulder with a small smile.
> She'll probably want to talk about the bad dream she just had.
> Her hooves lower from her face as her red puffy eyes look to you, sniffling a little.
 
"It's okay Twilight. Calm down, take a few breaths." Your soft motherly tone tries to sooth her.
> It always worked for you when you used to watch her when she was younger.
> She appears to be trying to listen to you but her eyes are still riddled with anxiety.
> And her stare seems to be through you not at you.
"Twi?.." you try to get her to focus on you, leaning down to eye level.
> What in Equestria has her shaken so badly?
> Her deep breaths are clearly trembling with her body.
> Placing a hoof gently to her cheek you remain eye level with her trying to bring her back from that off stare.
> "Twilight, sweetheart.. Look at me.." your voice is still gentle, but with a sence of seriousness.
> Her pin point pupils are almost entirely consumed by her violet irises. > But after a second, several quick blinks begin to focus her stare onto you.
> "C..Cadence? " she continues to look at you.
"The one and only" you smile warmly brushing some stray mane from her face before Twilight plunges herself into your chest in an unexpected forceful hug.
"Oof" escapes your mouth as she squeezes you.
> You wrap your forelegs around her relieved she is awake and responding to you.
> Quickly, she pulls away leaving a small distance between you.
> "Was Anon here?! Did you talk to him?!" She rattles off quickly and a little over dramatically while scanning the room.
"I.. uh.. no? Shining went to go look for him. We figured you were somewhere here with him. Why? What's wrong?" Something seems off as you watch her bite her lip at your explanation.
> The same way she used to when she did something she wasn't supposed to when you were her foal sitter.
"Twilight.. What happened.." you question with the same tone you would use then as well.
 
> You are Twilight Sparkle
> And you can't seem to slow your mind down as your thoughts fly.
> You need to find Anon.
> Where is Anon?
> Why is Cadence here without him?
> Where did he go?
> Are you too late?
> "Twilight? " Your name falls deaf on your ringing ears, your flooding thoughts continuing.
> You need to stop him.
> Luna can't have him.
> He's YOUR husband!
> You can fix this.
> Surely Cadence and Shining will help.
> They're your family.
> Family helps family.
> Now all you need to do is~
> "Focus Twilight." Cadence grabs your attention once more from your rapid pace thinking.
> With another hard blink your thoughts begin to spill unfiltered and quickly.
"Cadence we need to stop him!" Urgency clear in your voice
> "S-stop who Twi?.."
"Anon!"
> "Um.. from doing what exactly  sweetie?" Her voice tries to remain evenly toned.
"Leaving me! He's my husband I love him! I don't love Flash it was a mistake!  I swear! I want to make it better! I can fix it! I want to make it right! Not 'normal', but right. Like it should be!"  You continued to rattle off sentence after sentence, almost taking no time for breaths.
> You can breathe later..
> Right now it's time to find Anon.
> Cadence places both hooves on both side of your cheeks.
> " Twilight... Calm down and take a breath... What are you saying..." her eyes narrow a bit.
> Calm down?
> You can't calm down!
> Luna could have had her way by now!
"I'm saying we need to find Anon before he finds you! I don't want him to leave me! We can't get divorced!"
> Your breathing is now panicked as if you  just finished a sprint, from the lack of breaths just a moment ago.
> "D...Divorced? Twilight did you hit your head? Why would he want a divorce?" A confused expression crosses her features.
"Because Flash!" You blurt out.
> "... What about him.." Her tone loses a majority of comfort, as she releases your cheeks staring at you awaiting an explanation.
 
"We.. I.. he.. caught us.. doing" words escape you as nausea makes its way into your stomach.
> Cadence scoots back and sits up straight clearly fighting off a look of utter disapproval.
> "...Caught you doing what Twilight..." her question almost seems rhetorical at this point.
> Your mind begins to slow down realizing what you're admitting.
> Cadence's look upon you makes your heart sink.
> What have you done..
****
> You are Shining Armor
> Staring down at this.. stranger you once called your brother, you heavily consider keeping up your assault on him until he stops moving.
> How could he do this to your sister?
> To Twily!
> What has she ever done to anypony beside help them?
> And here he is taking advantage of her kindness..
> But your morbid curiosity nags in the back of your mind.
> You thought you knew eachother well.
> What POSSIBLE reason could he have for this disgusting act.
> You're absolutely certain that you heard what you heard.
> He better not try the 'I didn't say that angle' or you swear...
> Blood drips from his forehead as he lays on his side with his hand up prepared to defend himself from you.
> With his other hand he wipes away some blood that made its way near his eyes.
> Looking at it on his hand, then back to you he speaks .
> " Your sister was unfaithful to me Shining! SHE cheated on ME!" he jabs his own chest with a finger as he sits up.
"Shut the hell up, she did not! Twily would never do something like that!"
> You step towards him ready to continue your attack.
"I can't believe you would stoop so low as to~"
> "Flash.. Sentry.. I saw it happen right in fucking front of me." His words come out with a restraining growl.
> That name causes you to pause along with your speech.
> "RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME! In the ACT!" His heavy fist lands into the floor as his now welling eyes widen with passion and voice raises to a shout.
> His words echo throughout the hallway followed by a brief silence.
 
> "So do NOT!.. Do NOT tell me what she did or didn't do..." With some obvious difficulty he begins to try to control his growing anger.
> His voice sounds.. odd as the passion in his explanation increases.
> This can't be true though...
> Flash Sentry?
> Her old coltfriend?
> One of your Royal Guards?
> You feel your anger begin to dissipate a little as you think.
> Had he said any other name you wouldn't believe him for a second.
> But Flash, that calculating selfish brat of a guards pony..
> He was different..
" Get up.." you grunt attempting to grip him in your aura only managing to ruffle his clothes a little.
> He coughs wiping some more blood away, "Come on.. You know that doesn't work..." he dryly points out.
> You actually did forget..
> He rolls to his knees slowly before rising with an aching grunt.
> Holding his arms out to his sides for a moment, he let's them fall to his legs with a slap.
> " Shining.. Bro.." He sighs looking away for a second, "I came here today to get a divorce from Twilight. What I told you is true. She snuck around with Flash behind my back. I caught her. It's over.."
> A pain shoots through your chest at his sobering statement.
> Words escape you for a moment.
"There.. has to be more to this" is all that comes out as your denial begins to crumble.
> "What else could there be. I saw it... She kept it a secret.. And to make matters.. 'even better'" he does a weird air scratch thing with his fingers, " Flash has been after me ever since."
"After you?.." your question lingers searching for verification of exactly what he means.
> "...He's trying to kill me Shining. A couple of times now. He killed a friend of mine who stepped in his way.. Toil.. he saved my life.." his gaze falls silently to the floor for a moment.
> "Big Mac is in bad shape too because of him. He.. saved me also.." his anger seems almost gone replaced by an empty sober expression.
> You don't know this Toil he speaks of, but Mac?!
 
> Your eyes widen in disbelief.
" Big Mac!?"
> He offers a small nod.
> "He saved me from a fire in a barn that flash locked me in. The whole thing pretty much collapsed on us while he tried to drag me out of it..."
"I..I can't believe it.." you struggle with this alleged truth.
> How could these acts of... treason escaped you for so long?!
*****
> You are Cadence
"Doing what Twilight??" Your supportive tone is all but gone as you ask the evasive Twilight once more.
> "I don't want ..to.. say.. " she looks like she's going to be sick.
"You have to Twilight... What did you do.." you insist.
> She stares down at the floor, shoulders drooped in defeat.
> "I.. " she mumbles a bit, "with Flash..."
" You.. cheated on Anonymous.. with Flash Sentry.. your ex coltfriend.." your phrasing is paced, full of intent.
> She only offers a nod while still facing the floor.
"...Twilight Sparkle... How dare you..."
> She sniffles, "I know.." barely a whisper squeaks from her mouth.
"YOU! Of all ponies?" Disappointment saturated your words and expression.
> Another sniffle is her only response.
> Trying to stomach what she is telling you is proving to be difficult.
"And you want me to stop him from being able to leave you??" A more emotional response escapes you.
> " Y..yes.." she speaks knowing the futility behind it.
" After what you have done, Twilight? How can you sit here and ask that of me. You broke the trust, the bond of the one thing I cherish most. Love. The love between one another is a beautiful thing, that should be more valuable than all the bits in Equestria. More than any temptation, or desire. Anonymous loved you. I've seen it in his eyes. In his heart... I'm tempted to take a look into yours to see what went wrong.."
> She sniffles looking back up with watery pleading eyes.
 
I do l-love him.." her voice shakes from her core.
> Your narrowed eyes remain on her.
> You take a moment before responding, looking over her distraught body.
> It's proving to be difficult to keep your utter disgust in check.
> You recall throughly digging through Anon's heart..
> His intentions..
> All of his feelings.
> He loved her through and through.
> Pure and true untainted love.
> Not once could you find any doubt in it.
> You did it for her..
> To make sure she wouldn't get hurt..
> To put Shining's and your mind at ease, that she would be with a stallion.. er.. man.. who would treat her right and love her regardless.
> To be what she deserved..
> Never in a million years did you think that Twilight would betray that.
> Your heart actually aches for Anonymous at the moment, knowing full well how much he loved her.
> How much he trusted her.
"If you truly loved him Twilight... Needless to say, we wouldn't be having this conversation.. As of right now I'm inclined to say that I won't stop him in his decision, whatever it may be. You make choices in your life Twilight.. And sometimes you have to learn the consequences of some of those choices.. Unfortunately, your decisions may have cost you your marriage..."
> Her pleading eyes turn to a look of complete devastation.
> "B...But Cadance! You're my sister-in-law! How can you~" you halt her words with a raised hoof.
"I am, but I am also the Princess of Love, Twilight..." the words escape with a stoic expression.
> She continues to stare, slack jawed. "This isn't about family. Or about how you're related to me. It's about you and Anonymous. Specifically, your choices to put your marriage at risk. A decision I have yet to understand Twilight.."
 
> She does her best to pull her self together closing her eyes tightly and drawing a long inhale.
> "T-Then take a look for yourself Cadence. You'll see I still love him!"
> You can't help but to notice she evaded part of your statement.
"I don't think you want that Twilight.."
> "I do! You have to see! I can't lose him!" Her desperation irks you.
"Twilight... Maybe it's best if you let Anonymous decide what~"
> "No! Cadence please! He won't listen to me! I need your help!" She begs.
"...Would you listen to him if he did this to you? " Your tone adds extra sting to the words you chose.
> With that your horn lights brightly as your aura envelopes Twilight.
"Remember, you wanted this.. "
> She tries to mouth something as you lower her to her side in the bed.
> The spell leaves her mostly immobilized.
> Sitting up straight yourself, you begin to relax and prepare your mind to look into Twilight's.
> You can already sence her apprehension.
> Her fears.
> Her.. misery and desperation.
> Your eyes gently close as you prepare to explore her heart and mind.
> When they open you find yourself in Twilight's bedroom.
> With a few blinks you begin to orientate yourself while you look around.
> It's morning.
> The sun is beginning to illuminate the room in oranges and yellows.
> A shuffling from the bed catches your attention.
> Warmth washes over your body.
> A feeling of safety.. security..
> You notice Twilight scooped into Anon's arms as they lay.
> Her back to his chest.
> His nose to the top of her head.
> His lips pressing a gently puckered kiss to it.
> The faintest of smiles on her lips.
> Your feelings are in tune with Twilight's now.
> And she is absolutely loving this embrace.
> His fingers lightly trace from her neck to her chest as she nuzzles back into him more.
> After a moment she turns in his arms, looking up nose to nose facing him.
> Her sparkling violet eyes silently look into his.
 
> "Mmm. Good morning to you too.." her voice is airy with a light echo as you glimpse at the memory.
> You even catch yourself smiling for a moment.
> Her heart soars as they lay together.
> This is the couple you knew.
> The one that was once head over hooves in love..
> But this isn't what you were searching for...
> With a little shake of your head you force yourself to focus.
> It almost hurts you to leave this feeling, knowing what you might find.
> A dying smile lingers on your own lips as you watch them share a tender kiss
> Anon's hand lightly brushes her cheek as they both smile behind their kiss.
> With that, you close your eyes and search further into her heart for a truth you wished didn't exist.
****
"We apologize dearest sister... We were just...upset. But you must realize the difficulty you added to an already stressful situation."
> You are Luna
> And you are trying to conduct some damage control.
> "That I added?! You brought Twilight's husband here as your date, and I am the one who added stress?" She barks back.
> You sigh before responding.
"It may have.. skipped our memory that we were having visitors today. That, admittedly,  is our own fault. He was not brought here to be.. a.. " you blush a little " a.. date.." you hoof at the floor infront of you.
> Celestia notices your blush as you refer to Anonymous as a date.
> She says nothing for a moment just examining you.
> "...Luna.. I want to be happy for you. I honestly do. I can see how he makes you feel. I haven't seen you act like this in some time.. But he's married Luna.." her tone is gentle as she speaks behind eyes desperate for your understanding.
> You meet her eyes with your own determined glare.
"Tia.. We have always cared for Anonymous. Since before your... beloved pupil began treating him like the latest book to read. We lost him because we were too afraid to make that known. Too afraid that we would be left vulnerable to become hurt.. And in trying to protect ourselves from that, we only got hurt worse. We're not going to let that happen again."
 
> A muffled shout from the hallway turns both of your heads to the door.
> "Oh, now what.." Celestia deflates.
> You glance back at her.
"All we ask is not to get involved if you are so against it Tia.. And once again we are sorry for our choice of words earlier.."
> "It's okay Luna... You weren't very wrong anyway.."she holds a faux smile
"Tia.." you feel a frown form.
> "It's alright.. Go to Anonymous Luna." She holds her smile and leaves with a quick snap.
> 'Never a dull moment with you Luna' Laughter erupts in your mind as you feel guilt begin to crush you.
" Sh-shut up..." you whisper aloud to yourself.
> You begin to make your way to the castle door.
> 'You have crushed your sister in a most satisfying way. More so then when I almost killed her! Your words have cut her deeper than any blade could.' Laughter continues.
"Enough!" You shout before the door infront of you slams open with a burst of magic from your horn.
> Your wings sprawl open as your nightmare harassed your thoughts.
> Anonymous enters your sights, and a flinching Shining Armor as well.
> He's bleeding!
> What did that brute do to your dear Anonymous!?
> He will pay for~
> "Luna." Anonymous speaks snapping you from an apparent rage that Shining Armor was about to take the brunt of.
"My dear! What did he do to you!" You approach him raising a hoof to his cheek, examining his cuts.
> You turn from him and glare at Shining who is doing his best to appear unafraid.
> Unsuccessfully so.
> Anonymous guides your face back to him gently with his fingers.
> "Hey, relax.." his thumb crosses your cheek in a few petting motions.
> It almost immediately begins to calm you.
> His touch has an effect on you like you have never experienced before.
 
> "He didn't know what happened.. It's alright." He says in a soothing tone.
"But Anonymous, you're bleeding!" your worried eyes look over his bruises and cuts once more.
> "It's fine.. really." He raises a hand to his forehead touching it lightly, and inspects his hand, " In fact, I was just telling him how you saved me and Mac from the barn. Neither of us would have been here if it wasn't for you." His hand runs from your cheek to behind your ear for a scratch.
> "We are only sorry we didn't arrive sooner" You say trying to keep your composure as his magical hand scratches your ear.
> He quickly ends his affectionate touch though, uncomfortably retracting his hand.
> A small pout appears on your face.
> Why did he stop!
> You like that!
> A lot!
> Shining catches your eye, standing awkwardly.
> Oh ya...
> " S-so... " Shining stammers out.
> " How long has... this" he motions to the both of you. "Been going on? "
> You maintain a disapproving stare at Shining.
> How dare he hurt your Anonymous.
> You don't care what he did or didn't know...
> "Not until after I found Twilight doing what she was.." Anonymous answers for you.
> Shining flinches slightly at the retort.
> " I see.. A little quick no?.." he tries to add some bite behind his own come back.
> Anonymous patiently replies, "I didn't intend for anything to happen Shining... It just did.."
> Shining says nothing only nodding for an acknowledgment.
> "Well.. Anonymous.. I can't say I agree with what you want. I can't say i like it either.. You were like the brother I never had.. But at the same time I can't tell you to change your mind.
I wish you would though.. If what you said is true then you have every right.. But Twilight made a mistake. A terrible one at that from the sound of it. There has to be some part of you that wants to fix this.." he almost pleads at the end of his sentence.
 
> Your brow drops in anger.
> 'He is going to steal our Anonymous Luna! Do not let him!'
> You go to speak, but Anonymous beats you to it once more.
> "My mind is pretty made up brother.. That's not something I'm willing to work on. To have to wonder every day from then on what she's doing when I'm not there. To have to question everything she says. Left to wonder what's a lie. What's truth..." he rubs his head as he shifts his weight uncomfortably.
> " Maybe we can talk about that another time though.." you catch him glancing at you.
> Why is he glancing at you?
> 'He doesn't want to discuss the brat infront of us!'
> Oh..
> ..You knew that..
 
> You are Anon.
> Your head throbs more and more with each passing moment.
> Why can't you catch a break?
> 'This is utter weakness... You've allowed him to harm us, and all you have to say is it's alright.' The voice grumbles in your mind.
> And you're doing your best to remain calm and in control as it chips away at your resolve.
> Piece by piece, picking away at your patience.
> "You don't know that until you try Anon.. I'm not saying what she did, if true, is right. Not at all, but there has to be at least a small part of you that wants to try. I don't want to lose you as a brother Anon.." his last sentence probably escaped more sentimental than intended.
"Shining.. dont say that.. Just because things didn't work between me and Twilight~" You hear a small huff come from Luna as she turns away seeming to have had enough of this conversation.
> You shoot her a stern glance before turning back to Shining.
" Doesn't make you any less important to me. You'll still be my bro. Just... in a different way." You do your best trying to calmly explain.
> "Right.. and what about Spike Anon..." He takes a step towards you.
> All the toughness he tried to front before disappears as his expression seems desperate for an answer.
> Spike...
> He must notice your face drop and your mouth open going to speak but failing to find words.
> He takes another step closer before speaking himself.
> "You haven't even thought about that have you..." his voice lowers as he puts the pieces together.
> You feel as if your heart stops beating as a pain shoots through your chest.
 
> The emotional ravaging of your entire situation begins to catch up with you.
> Guilt begins to anchor your heart as your eyes slowly close and your head lowers.
> Your hand comes up to your face unconsciously trying to hide yourself from the fact that Shining is right.
> How did this not register earlier.
> You pinch the bridge of your nose with a small inhale and exhale.
> Have you been so caught up with what's happening...
> So self absorbed about your situation, your pain, that you didn't consider Spike?..
> He looked up to you.
> Constantly looked for your approval in almost everything he did.
> There weren't many male roll models in the life he was given.
> Good ones anyway..
> So it was only natural that he gravitated towards you.
> Without facing anypony in the room you speak
"Is he here too?.." you manage to mutter.
> With a slow shake of his head, Shining maintains an upset eye contact.
> "No Anon.. Not yet.."
> Then that means he's still training at the Crystal Empire.
> The 'Hero of the Empire' to receive training for his honorary title.
> Something you were so proud of, that somehow got lost in the mix of this disaster.
*****
> You are Spike.
> Savior of the Crystal Empire.
> Mighty dragon of Ponyville.
> Protector of Princess Twilight and  Prince Anonymous!
> And love interest of the fair Rarity Belle.
> Well.. most of those anyway.
> Maybe after she sees your training and recognition from the Crystal Empire she'll finally come around.
> And if that doesn't work, you'll bring back some gems.
> She loves those.
> Plus... You'll need a snack for the ride back.
> You're already starving..
> So much work! Uhg..
> Did they forgot you're a hero??
 
> "On your guard dragon!"
> Oh ya! Training!
> A sheen crystal earth pony with blunted spear in grip charged at you.
"A lone spear verses me! Hah!" You take your stance with your also blunted sword and shield.
> Overconfidence saturated your voice, as an oversized helm and breast plate clanked while you moved. 
> With shield tucked to your chest to stop the breast plate from shifting, you raise your training sword to strike first.
> As you move to do so your helmet shifts to the side, effectively blocking your vision.
"whaaa!"
> You stumble foward losing your footing, and completely and accidentally dodge the Crystal Ponies lunge.
" WoaahhhHH!"
> You begin to slip backwards from the weight of the slightly oversized armor on your still tiny body.
> You begin to flail your arms for balance, shield and sword still in hand.
> The Crystal Pony turns quickly with a snort ready to attack once more, only to be met with a shield bash to the face as you trip backwards.
> " Yeaooo!" He drops his spear bringing a foreleg across his face.
> With another tripping half turn and flailing opposite arm, your blunt training sword finds a target atop of the ponies head with an audible bonk.
> Several gasps are heard as you struggle to straighten your helmet.
" Stupid.. helmet.. can't. .see!" You grumble to yourself
> Success!
> Vision acquired!
> Now to take out that~
> Cheers break out, and catch you completely by surprise.
> Wait.. what?
> What did you do?
> Taking a small step foward as your bewildered stare scans the small crowd that's been training with you, your foot knocks into something hard.
"Wha?.."
 
> You look down and notice your opponent knocked out at your feet.
> "Way to go Spike!" A cheer breaks through the rest..
" Y.. Yeah! No big deal! Heh heh.." a nervous chuckle leaves your mouth.
> You remove the annoying hunk of crystal from your head displaying a big  smile.
> As long as they think you did that on purpose, that's fine in your book!.
> You give the crowd a triumphant raise of your training sword.
> They meet you with more cheers and hoof stomps.
> Anon will love this story!
> You can't wait to see them later today!
*****
> You are Cadence.
> Your eyes close as you shuffle through a mess of emotions in Twilight's heart and memories.
> She actually does have many good memories with Anonymous which makes this whole situation more unbearable.
> You were just finishing a memory from their first date.
> Her adorable anxiety..
> His cheesy jokes and comments.
> Maybe you were digging in the wrong places on purpose to avoid the inevitable find yourself...
> But this was just too cute...
> Maybe you'll just finish this one last good memory...
> "I.. I had a great time with you today Anonymous." Her cheeks are red as roses as she stands at the entrance back to her castle.
> "Ya me too. I'm uh.. glad you decided to come." Anon glances nervously to a guard positioned at the front door, clearly keeping an eye on his every move.
> You recall that he wasn't here that long yet.
> They probably still made him nervous.
> Well, how he was treated and all.
> " whaa.. what's wrong Anon?" She stutters, catching him looking at the guard, and catching the guards stare to Anonymous.
 
> You sence the panic set in from Twilight.
> "Shield Oath ssttoopp! Go inside!" She whines like a young filly to its parents.
> "As you wish, my Princess." His deep yet gentle voice speaks before he offers a small bow and complies with his order.
> "Heh.. s-sorry.. He's just protective." Her smile is forced and wide as her humiliation runs rampant.
> "It's alright. I understand. The whole 'Princess' thing and all." He does some strange gesture with his fingers as he returned his own nervous smile.
> "yeaahh.." she looks away a little as they share a moment of awkward silence.
> How cute!
> Anonymous is the first to speak up after an audible inhale and reddening cheeks of his own.
> "So!" He nervously taps his legs.
> "I guess I'll be off then.. Maybe we could uh.. do this again sometime?" His nervousness is apparent no matter how he tries to play it off.
> Twilight quickly replies, "Yeah! I-i mean yes, that would be nice."
> You can feel her internally kicking herself for the outburst as butterflies flapped in her stomach.
> "Heh, alright then! I'll have something ready for tomorrow. Time to head back to the farm then." He sticks his hands into his pockets and rocks lightly. 
> "Alright! Can't wait. " Twilight wears her nervous excited smile.
> Oh my, are you about to witness..
> Anon takes a small breath of courage and steps towards her leaning down.
> You can feel Twilight's heart pounding.
> She's so nervous!
> Yet she doesn't miss a beat as she takes a small step towards him raising her head.
> They both meet with lightly pursed lips for a quick peck of a kiss.
> For a quick moment they kept the close distance and looked into eachothers eyes.
 
> But just as quickly stepped back, both holding back their respective goofy smiles.
> " o-okay! See ya!" Anonymous gave a slightly awkward wave as he pivoted and began to leave.
> Twilight's smile only widened.
> Once Anonymous was out of sight, she closed her eyes and let out a content sigh, still smiling.
> Her horn illuminated and with a snap, she was up in her room.
> She began to walk towards the balcony, her hoof steps light as air with a happy spring in every step.
> Her heart was singing at this point.
> "I guess we just go on dates with beasts to say I'm leaving you now'a days hmm?..." a voice comes from your balcony before you reach it.
> You know that voice..
> Why is it in her room after that?..
> "Flash?..." Twilight speaks peaking around the corner to find the source of the voice standing on a breezy balcony.
> You feel her chest tighten as her eyes widen.
> " Why are you here?" She asks keeping her distance.
> Wait why IS he there?..
 
> "Why.. am I here.." his voice remains low as he walks into the room with a slow pace.
> The breeze lessens as he enters, causing his striking blue mane to come to a slightly messy rest.
> His hoof clacks echo in your quiet quarters.
> " You tell me Twi. Why am I here?" Flash speaks again halting his movement, making a blatant mocking questioning expression.
> He does his best to appear normal and curious, yet a slight lip quiver signals otherwise.
> Twilight's stare remains unflinching. > "It couldn't have anything to do with my marefriend going on a date with some... monkey beast could it?.." he brings a hoof to his chin sarcastically.
> "I'm not your marefriend anymore Flash... I've told you that already.." she remains stern in her wording and posture.
> "Oh you arent? That's news to me Twi." Flash tries to hold a cracking failing smile.
> He looks away obviously frustrated, trying to keep his now welling eyes out of sight from Twilight.
> "You get too busy for me? You have to study this new.. Creature.. I gave you time to do it. And somewhere in that mix, I get cast aside?" there is obvious pain in his voice as he speaks.
> "Time to do it?? Flash, I was never that important to you to begin with. You've shown me that time and time again. I can admit it now. You're more interested in the title I hold, than you are in me. No matter how much I tried.. Or how time after time I threw myself at you.. There was always something else you were preoccupied with. You didn't give me time, you just weren't around.." Twilight held a hoof to her chest as she referred to herself.
> Flash stares in disbelief.
> " That's not true..." his voice is low once more as his head lowers as well.
> " Please, get out Flash..." Twilight points back to the balcony.
> He doesn't flinch as she does though, only staring at her.
 
> Yet after a short moment you feel guilt quickly build in Twilight.
> Horrible guilt...
> "You'll see Twi.. This is a mistake..." he sniffs.
> Is he... crying?
>  It feels as if her heart is breaking at this point.
> You can sense her feeling almost at fault.
> She's hurting..
> Flash looks away once more keeping his red watery eyes out of view.
> "You're wrong... About me not caring.. About spending all this time with that... that Animal..." he fights back a sob with another sniff and inhale.
> A sigh escapes her, the feeling of responsibility for Flash's emotional state weighing her dowm.
> And.. some doubt in herself as he speaks.
> Is she believing this?..
> " Flash.." She goes to speak before he begins to walk backwards towards the balcony shaking his head at her.
> " You'll see.." he rears up on his hind legs assisting his strong flaps that carry him away from the balcony.
> What was that about?..
> And why did Twilight care so much.
> They were supposed to be apart by then...
> Your own eyes close ending that specific memory as you begin to search through her heart, her feelings of guilt that matched that moment.
> Perhaps it would lead to another moment with Flash..
> A pang of guilt radiates through you as you locate a similar feeling of fear and responsibility.
> You take a peek at a snippet of the memory attached.
> Twilight sits at her desk reading,  'Effective as of the first of the month. Additional Castle Guard personnel: Cpl. Sentry, F. By approval of Lt. Oath, S.'
> You watch as she chews the inside of her cheek masking her mixed emotions of panic, worry and indecision.
> You also feel her internal conflict.
> She knew how much he wanted to work in Ponyville...
> Her mind begins to rationalize, 'Things will remain professional.. After all he was only upset. You haven't seen him since.. well the day you kicked him out. It probably would add to a growing animosity if you denied this transfer... yeah.. professional interactions it is...'
 
> "Twilight darling, what are you reading? We need to make some final adjustments on your dress! Princess life must simply wait sweetie!" Her friend Rarity begins to rush her to get ready.
> She quickly snatches the letter from Twilight with her aura, placing it down on the side of her desk.
> " She's right Twilight..." her yellow coated pink maned friend, Fluttershy chimes in barely above a whisper, approaching her near the desk she sat at.
> "Weddings are a once in lifetime, I'm sure somepony else can take care of this busy work for a while." She offers a supportive smile.
> With a submissive sigh and slouch, Twilight agrees, "Uhhhggg.. You're right girls. I guess I've just been keeping myself extra busy because the wedding is in a few days. It helps keep my mind off of being nervous." She offers her own shy smile.
> "Nervous!? Darling I'm absolutely thrilled for you and Anonymous! A wedding for a Princess! It will be the platform for all of Equestria! They'll all see you in the personalized hoof sewn dress I created!.. I .. I mean see how gorgeous you'll look!... of course... heh heh.." Rarity holds a high cheeked embarrassed smile.
> "uh huh.." Twilight gives her a 'seriously?' Stare.
> "Come now dear!" Rarity holds a hoof up to her mouth before calling out, " OH SPIKEY WIKEY!" Her voice has a little vibrato as she almost sings it.
> The pitter patter of his tiny dragon feet running up the hallway brings a smile to all of their faces.
> The tiny purple and green dragon enters the room answering his beckoning, slowing down from his sprint.
> He faces Rarity slightly out of breath.
> "Ye... Yeah Rarity?" His voice is excited as he tries to act like he's not tired.
> He is so in love with her it plays on your heart strings.
 
> "Spikey Wikey, my big brave dragon. Do be a dear and help us. Can you get Twilight's letters and papers in order so we can get her dress finished? Puhleeeeese?" Rarity pouts over dramatically.
> "S..Sure Rarity. Anything for you!" He answered with his hypnotized expression.
> " You are simply the best. My hheerroo. Muah!" She places a kiss on his cheek to which he stands, dazed with a smile.
> "Come girls!" Rarity calls to them all.
> You notice Fluttershy jump with a frightened expresion and look to Rarity pulling her head from the letter that got placed on the desk by her.
 > She was reading it...
> Twilight turns to Fluttershy from facing Rarity.
> " You ready? "
> Hmm.. Unfortunately you think you're on the right track...
*****
> You are Spike.
> "Sorry we couldn't get you on the same train as the Prince and Princess. We really appreciate your time with us and letting us show you some traditions and customs of the Crystal Empire.." A white steel armored Crystal Empire Guard bows deeply.
"Ah, it's no big deal. It's only a little later than the one they were on." He dismisses the apology with a wave of his clawed hand. "And besides it's the least I could do since the Crystal Empire is going to recognize me as a hero! Plus, I got to spend a few weeks away, making new friends!" Your excited smile is wide.
> "We are honored you consider us you're friends Master Spike." He does another less dramatic bow.
> " You will be escorted to Canterlot by two Guards to ensure your safe arrival. Also, we were able to get you some.. uh.. snacks, as you requested." He nods, signaling one of his accompanying Guards to step foward with a small cart attached to him with a sack of multi colored gems of various sizes concealed inside.
 
> You stare excitedly not noticing your tongue lolled out almost drooling in hunger.
> "And please accept our gifts to your Prince and Princess for letting us host you." He nods once more as the second Guard walks beside the first with the same setup.
> "One Crystalline Shield, forged from our top weapon smiths. It should be to Prince Anonymous' size. Also, a complete.. encyclopedia.. set" he seems to roll his eyes at the lack luster gift "of the history and... geographical.. eh.." his voice dies out.
> He leans close to your ear after looking left and right, "It's books Spike.. a bunch of books. It wasn't my idea. Princess Cadence thought it would be nice gift for Princess Twilight.." his whisper suggesting he wants your understanding in the boring present.
> You laugh at his nervousness.
" Clearly you don't know Twilight. She loves stuff like this!" Your reply is energetic knowing full well she'll love it.
> He releases a sigh of relief.
> "Very good then! We have instructed the conductor of the importance of your prompt arrival. You should be there in no time at all." The small crowd behind him begins to say it's goodbyes.
"I'll be back in no time guys! Thanks for everything! " Your clawed hand waves as you make your way to the awaiting train with your two escorts."
> The sounds on the shuffling and clanking gems makes your stomach grumble as you get closer to the train.
> You have to make sure to leave some for Rarity..
> BUT... there should be enough for a snack!
*****
> You are Anon
> " Why have you come here to put additional pressure on our dear Anonymous, Shining.." her voice is civil yet aggressive as her stare continues upon him.
"Luna.." your voice is quiet yet pleading.
 
> " Was his suffering not enough?" Her voice hits like jabs.
> Shining seems taken back by her words.
> " Princess Luna, I'm only trying to point out the impact his decision will have on others.. I love Anon like a brother. But please don't forget that, Twilight, is also still my sister..." he emphasizes her name.
> " And how can we forget that, my defensive Shining." A sence of sarcasm escapes her as she looks away from him with an unimpressed expression.
> " Just as simply as you can forget that they were still married I suppose.." His eyes narrow at her seeming annoyed by her comments.
> Her head snaps back to his direction with all the anger she had when she entered the room.
> "You dare enter our castle and insinuate, what exactly?" Her voice becomes loud as she speaks, standing tall with chest puffed foward slightly.
> " Princess Luna, I do not have to insinuate anything. Any filly can see that~~" He's halted by your hand raising.
" I promise we can talk later, Shining. Now isn't a good time." You try dropping the hint with a stern stare without making it too obvious.
> "...I'm going to hold you to that Anon.." he glances between both you and Luna.
> Luna still holds her glare on him.
> 'At least she has the right of it..'
"Stop it.." You look in Luna's general direction towards the floor.
>  Your whisper works for both Luna and the nagging voice.
> "hmph.. " she breaks her stare with a final narrow eyed squint at him.
> " A brother would not harm you in such ways my dear Anonymous.." She stands against your side.
> Shinning looks down to his hooves with a defeated sigh.
> " She's actually not wrong about that.. I'm sorry Anon.." he looks back at you seeming genuine in his apology.
 
> You are Princess Cadence.
> And your head behins to ache along with your own heart as you continue to search through these memories and emotions, some deeper than others.
> Constantly sifting through feelings of conflict, fear, apprehension.
> And yet.. still love.
> A slightly encouraging feeling.
> One that still leaves a glimmer of hope at the end of this dark tunnel.
> Perhaps Twilight is not lying after all.
> A feeling of intense shame grabs your attention.
> The memory begins to phase into your own vision, as the muffled voices begin to clarify with the sight of it.
> "Rarity, I look Ridiculous!" The raspy voice of her multi color maned friend, Rainbow Dash, whines as she scrunches her face staring dismayed into a mirror.
> Rarity does some finishing touches on curling Rainbows eyelashes before replying.
> " Don't be silly darling,  you look magnificent!" She perks up taking a step back with a smile, admiring her finishing touches on the dolled up bridesmaid.
> Yet Rainbow stands slouched, clearly not enjoying the makeup and girly bridesmaid dress she wears.
> She stares at herself still, raising a hoof to gently poke at one of many small flowers intricately designed into her neatly designed mane.
> "Oh stop it Rainbow" Rarity smacks her hoof away, " today is not for you anyway! It's all about Twilight!" She almost sings her name.
> Rainbow huffs, "It doesn't mean you have to dress me up like a dork... Right Twi?.." her muzzle remains scrunched as she looks at her self in different angles.
> After a moment they both take a look to Twilight who stares blankly at herself in a mirror, mostly dressed in her carefully designed flowing wedding dress.
> " Twi?.." they both say almost at the same time.
> Twilight twitches, "Hm? what?"
> "Darling are you alright? It's almost time! You should be excited!" Rarity tries to pick up her mood with a large smile.
 
> " Oh,  yeah! I am! It's... it's just nerves.. heh" she smiles anxiously after her shaky giggle.
> A back door opens, with Applejack seeming to have the same distaste for her bridesmaids dress as Rainbow Dash, as she shifts and tugs at parts of it, still wearing her signature hat.
> " Rarity, ah swear.. this dress is ridiculous! Ah can't even get comfortable in it!" She continues to tug at it trying to straighten it out.
> " I know right?!" Rainbow agrees in an excitedly annoyed tone.
> " Its not supposed to be~" She speaks through gritted teeth, "...Oh no no no nooo..." Rarity yanks off Applejack's hat with her aura, speaking in an annoyed tone, laying it atop a dresser.
> " What in tarnation!" She stares up at her hat.
> Twilight sighs into her hooves lowering her head.
> " Enough! Out! The both of you!" Rarity barks losing her own cool for a moment.
> They glance from Rarity to Twilight, and exit with a quiet grumble.
> Rarity begins to quietly fix Twilight's mane while they remain silent for a moment.
> "Darling everything will be fine. I'll make sure of it." Rarity places a hoof to her shoulder making eye contact with Twilight's nervous ones in the reflection of the mirror.
> "Th-thanks Rare.." She says quietly with the slightest of smiles.
> " Don't mention it dear. Now! Let me go take care of those two headaches!" Rarity rubs her back a little before heading for the exit her self.
> Twilight nods and watches her leave.
> Once she does she stares at herself in the mirror silently, her smile slowly fading.
> What a strange mix of emotions on a wedding day..
> Her anxiety is high.
> Her doubt is noticeable..
> Though her love for Anonymous is still clearly there.
> Perhaps just the jitters then?
> That doesn't explain the nagging feeling of being let down though...
 
> The sounds from the large balcony window curtains flapping cause her to look up.
> Hoof clacks perk her ears as she looks behind her in the reflection.
> " As much as it hurts me to say, you look beautiful Twilight.."
> Her heart thumps in a bittersweet ache, as small beads of tears form in the corner of her eyes.
*****
> You are Luna
> Anon's words ring in your ears still.
> Why tell you to stop it?
> 'We did nothing but help him..'
> You know...
> 'We have saved his life'
> ...You know..
> 'We have offered him our very body..'
> You glance away from him not paying attention to the dialog at the moment.
> "But I think you know I'm still going to speak with Cadence..." Anon's voice says in a tone trying to let down Shining easily.
> Shining deflates looking away and shuffling slightly.
> " And I would like to get all that done before Spike gets here... I want to talk to him about it when it's calmed down a little.  I'm not sure he's going to understand.." As much as he tries to hide it, saddeness is apparent in his words as his own posture drops a little.
> " Cadence is with Twily now... She wasn't in good shape when she got here. She thinks that she tried to teleport her way here.." he speaks still facing away.
> 'heh, We did that. And managed to save both him and Big McIntosh. How weak she is without her friends help...'
> You can't help but to get a small sence of satisfaction from that point.
> Your ears perk and eyes widen a little realizing a quick fact.
> You never had the time to tell him about his friend!
> Uhg what a poor time to remember such such a thing..
> You need to get more sleep from now on..
> That should help.
> Turning to Anonymous with some excitement you go to let him know the escaped thought.
> Yet as you watch him, clearly stressed and rubbing his temples, you decide it's probably best to wait a moment.
 
> You are Anon
> God...
> Celestia..
> Powers that be.
> Whoever! Why is Twilight here?
> To stop you once more?
> How much more clear can you be?
> And she beat you to Cadence..
> Your hands rub your temples still, trying to relax a feeling of building stress and hopelessness.
> 'Stop being weak Anonymous... Do you need me to do everything for you?...' the annoyed voice causes your chest to further tense and your breath to shorten.
> Please.. just please not now..
" What are they doing.." you ask with your eyes still closed trying to silently fight your internal battle.
> " She was sleeping when I left.. She didn't look too good." He finally turns back to you searching for some type of reaction. 
> 'Perhaps Flash has shown her too much of a good time this time around' The voice ends the sentence with a bellowing laughter that momentarily haunts your mind as you stare to the floor.
> For some reason it sets memories moving in your head as your fists involuntarily grip.
> Repressed feelings begin to bubble to the surface and images you forced away begin to re-emerge.
> Luna looks from your hands to you with a questioning expression.
> You hear a voice that doesn't quite register, while the laughter continues in your mind. 
> 'They'll all walk right over you without me Anonymous! Hah hah!' It echos in your mind as if from all directions.
> You feel something at your side that still doesn't quite register, as frustration continues to build.
> The bass of the laughter shakes you to the very core.
> Is it right?
> Do you need his help?
> Now?..
> " Anon!" A stern female voice pierced your thoughts.
> Your fist finds it self driven into the stone wall as a reaction to everything happening at once.
"What!" You bark deeply, looking around with painful achy eyes for the source of the voice, stepping backwards slowly.
> The shock of pain shooting up your arm begins to distract your mind.
 
> Luna stares at you with her concerned teal eyes and a hoof placed gently on your stomach.
> Shining takes a step back looking at you with a stare you've come to hate.
> A look that suggests you're something he doesn't understand. 
> A look of fear and disgust.
> The gaze someone would cast upon a beast.
> " Anon?.. What the.." he almost recoils while speaking.
*****
> You are Luna
> "Shining we take it that you are in the guest room you are always at when visiting. Correct? " you say with a small sence of urgency with a hoof still on Anonymous.
> He nods slightly while facing your poor distraught Anonymous who quickly faced away from his former brother.
> Anonymous hid his face from Shining, as he hunched over with his hands over his face.
> Ashamed of the eyes he revealed to somepony he cared so much for.
> A shame, a hurt you knew all too well.
"Very well, if you would be so understanding as to give us a moment... I'll make sure Anonymous goes there shortly.." you attempt to sound calm as you gently stroke Anon's back with a hoof to provide even the smallest comfort possible.
> To be the anchor he needs in this moment.
> " B..But.." he points at Anonymous with a slowly lifted hoof.
> You turn to him shooting a sharp glare.
" But what, our defensive Shining Armor..." the bite returns to your voice as you begin to hold back a growing glow in your own eyes.
> "I.. uh.. yeah.. okay.. I'll wait somewhere else." He takes a few steps backwards while speaking before turning and leaving.
 
> You are Princess Cadence
> And that voice seems to seize your own heart.
> What is he doing in her room on her wedding day?..
> Disappointment and anger fills your every thought and emotion.
> How is this even happening?..
> It's as if you're watching a strangers memories..
> She holds her eyes closed causing the small beads of tears to roll down her cheek lightly staining her clean fur.
> She still doesn't turn to face him, and he keeps his distance by the entrance he flew through, as he nervously stands.
> The memory you watch seems to almost flicker and fade for a quick moment.
> Maybe you're overdoing it, after all you did this with Anonymous over a period of time.
> With a sigh you try to relax and continue.
> Twilight opens her eyes to face a slightly smiling Flash Sentry through the reflection.
> His mane neatly groomed, and his armor mirror shine polished.
> You're having a problem reading her emotions though as her brow drops looking to Flash.
> "What are you doing here..." She maintains eye contact with him through the mirror.
> He looks to the floor for a moment before taking a few steps closer.
> "I..I Just wanted to see you before all.. This happened.." he motions towards flowers that Rarity was using for the wedding party.
> " I'm going to make my self very clear, Flash... I want you to leave, and I want you to do that now." Her voice is even as her eyes narrow slightly, with cheeks clear of any sign of tears.
> He freezes with eyes of shock, a hoof raised in mid step.
> " B..But Twi.. i~"
> She cuts him off with a sharp quick reply.
 
> " Princess Twilight.. Flash.." she raises her chin slightly as she spoke.
> He shuffles a little uncomfortably.
> "Y-yes of course..." he agrees with a tone of defeat.
> "Princess Twilight... I only wanted to come here to congratulate you and wish you my best going forward.. And~" He takes a step backwards with tight lips and wide eyes as he is cut off once more by Twilight.
> "I think we both know that's not true Flash. I don't know what you're planning to say or do, but I don't want to hear it. I love Anonymous, and we're getting married today regardless what you have to say." Her words are firmly spoken.
> He bites his lip at her attacking words, "I.. just wanted to say sorry and goodbye..."
> He paces backwards still.
> His words don't seem to move you, or Twilight as you still are having a difficult time reading the emotion behind her.
> In fact it seems contradictory to the emotions she was feeling just moments ago.
> " Leave Flash.. Or I'll have you arrested.." her voice is low and her expression unflinching.
> His crumbling resolve is apparent as he appears to try to speak but changes his mind.
> "Alright..." he says in almost a whisper with a slouch.
> " Rarity, can you at least fix the back? It's so tight on my flank!" The muffled raspy complaint comes from behind the door.
> Twilight gasps quietly turning to the door.
> She goes to turn back to Flash, but when she does all that she sees is the sway of the heavy curtains flapping gently with the breeze.
> The door opens as Rarity, with all of Twilight's bridesmaids in tow enter.
> Pinkie springs in with her usual bounce in her step.
> " Whatcha lookin at silly?" She asks with her over the top energy.
> Twilight spins back to them all doing her best to conceal her panic.
> " Oh nothing! Just.. enjoying the view!" She smiles wide.
> " Oooo! Lemme see!" Pinkie bounces on over to the balcony.
 
> "Umm! Doesn't Rarity have to finish your dress?" Her panic worsens as Pinkie continues.
> "No sir-ee! I'm finished." She approaches the balcony with a long dramatic gasp.
> Twilight bites the inside of her cheek, "w-what?"
> " What. a. VIEW! Twi, you should be looking from here not there!" She sticks her head in excitedly.
> Twilight visibly relaxes with a silent exhale.
> Fluttershy, with her fixed mane and flawless dress glances between Twilight and Pinkie.
> " Um.. Pinkie? Maybe we should all get ready together?." Her voice is quiet yet she was heard clearly.
> They must be accustomed to her whispering voice.
> " Kay!" Pinkie springs back over.
> Fluttershy remains looking towards the balcony though before glancing to the still relieved Twilight.
*****
> You are Luna
"Anonymous, dear. Can you look at us?.." you still stroke his back as he takes large breaths hiding his face.
> After a long inhale he turns to you looking still distressed.
> You offer a small smile.
"It's alright my dear Anonymous.. " your hoof gently caressed his cheek.
> His eyes seem to soften as you comfort him.
> "Is it?... I feel like I'm losing it more and more every day.. I can't catch a break.. Shining is right, my decisions keep hurting everyone." He says more composed yet still upset.
> You're unsure if he's referring to the situation at hoof or his internal battle.
> But it doesn't matter to you.
> You'll help either way the best you can.
"You will be fine as long as we can help it Anonymous." You hold his chin up with a hoof to face you as you speak looking in his eyes.
 
> His desperate stare calms as you speak.
> Saying nothing you place a foreleg around the back of his neck, pulling him gently to you chest.
> You hug him even though for the moment he doesn't hug you back.
> The side of his face presses slightly more into you as you feel his hand run up your shoulder resting over your withers.
> He stays silently on his knees, with his arm around you, hopefully finding comfort.
> Looking down to him you place a gentle kiss atop his head.
"We know how difficult it can be facing the world with this internal struggle making life that much more difficult. We wish there was some sort of secret we could tell you to make it better, but there isnt. Our advice is that you must come to terms with it. Understand it. And do not let it overwhelm you. Like we have always said do not let it consume you. We will be here for you as long as we can help it. You have family that cares greatly for you as well. Like  Big McIntosh." You try to sound upbeat at the last sentence as you let Anonymous lean into you.
> " Yeah.. And look where I got him.. he's in a coma because of me." He leans his forehead into your chest to speak.
"Are you so sure of that my dear Anonymous?" You say in a knowing tone.
> " yeah? You were there. He's..." he pulls away sounding confused at first looking to you.
> You smile at him as his confused expression begins to melt, giving way to a look full of hope.
> " D-do you know something I dont?" His question seems rhetorical to you.
> You nod happily holding your smile. > His eyes widen with excitement.
> " Is he??..." he doesn't finish his sentence yet still looks for an answer. "Yes he is. Awake and well."
 
> He holds his breath as his hands squeeze your shoulders.
> " Really?!" He almost yells.
> You nod once more your smile warming at his excitement.
> He let's out a relieved exhale as his shoulders drop while looking up.
> That you were able to pull him from that mood makes you happier than you can say.
"Yes my love. I was able to enter into one of his dream states and wake him. So why don't we pay him a visit when we're done here and~" His firm hug wrapped around your withers cutting you off.
> 'It's yes my "love" now is it?'
> Your cheeks hue red.
> That didn't slip..
> Did it?!
> " Thank you so much Luna.." He buries his head just under yours, into your neck.
"It's the least I could do with all that's happening.." You bashfully answer, loving his embrace on you.
> "Ill never be able thank you enough for that. You have no idea how much pain and struggle you saved us from. I don't know how Granny Smith, Applejack or Apple Bloom would have taken it. Or me for that matter.." he seems to let out his words in a small vent.
> His hand trails up your neck from your withers up to your ear, as he backs up.
> His look into your eyes seems to disarm you completely, as you feel your entire body melt into his touch.
> His hand returns to your cheek.
> Oh how you love that..
> He leans towards you pressing his lips to yours for a gentle, yet emotion filled kiss.
"Mmm~" you surrender to his embrace.
> He pulls away leaving you breathless for a moment, still looking into your eyes.
> " Thank you Luna... For everything.." his hand remains on your cheek, his thumb caressing it now.
> Your only answer is to lean into it as you always do, smiling warmly, lost in his eyes.
 
> "Ahhhemmhmm. " an over dramatic throat clearing, clearly from Shining Armor comes from the corner.
> You shoot a tired glance at the direction of it.
> Why must your moments always be disrupted?..
> With a small sigh your eyes shift back to your dear Anonymous who offers you a small smile seeing your frustration.
> You smile sheepishly back realizing he caught your obvious annoyance.
"Perhaps one day we can have you all to ourselves without any interruptions or disasters." You say quietly with lightly closed eyes as you nuzzle into his hand savoring it while you can.
> He laughs quietly, "I'll check my schedule. Maybe I can pencil you in sometime soon." A goofy smile crosses his expression.
> Your cheeks puff with a pseudo angry pout at his less than mature response.
> He chuckles lightly, "Soon. I promise.."
> His hand leaves your cheek, with his fingers tips trailing down the side of your neck. 
> You smile like a filly at her first crush.
" We will hold you to that my dear Anonymous... We promised Shining that we would return you to him when you were ready. We suspect that he knows you're ready with his dramatics over there." you motion to the corner he waits behind, speaking louder during your last sentence letting your frustration be known.
> " Behave Luna." He raises your chin with a finger to meet him with a departing kiss.
> A kiss you lean into lightly.
> One that you can't seem to get enough of lately.
> Yet unfortunately for you, he breaks it moving back again.
> "Let's get this over with, alright?" He says after taking a moment.
> You know your eyes are saying that you don't want him to leave yet, but you don't care.
> All you do is agree.
"Very well my dear.." your voice is quiet.
"We shall be in our room when you are finished..." you do your best to appear unbothered that he is about to see his.. ex.. wife.
> He runs his fingers down your neck to your shoulder once more before turning back towards the hiding Shining.
 
> " Alright...Let's see Cadence" Shining peeks his head around the corner.
****
> You are Princess Cadence.
> The whole wedding went exactly how you remembered.
>https://youtu.be/S6yuR8efotI
> Twilight looked absolutely amazing walking down the aisle with watery eyes of happiness.
> The 'ooo's and ahh's' she invoked was enough to keep a smile on her face while Rarity beamed with happiness upfront.
> A lone Cellist, rather than a larger band masterfully played as she appeared to glide down the aisle eyes locked onto the awaiting Anonymous who stood tall holding his hands infront of him.
> It was as if the Cellist bow was being pulled across the very stings of every ponies hearts as the song flowed.
> She reached the front where they stood a short distance apart.
> Though most couldn't hear, Anonymous mouthed the words, "You look beautiful."
> Words to which Twilight's cheeks rose a little more in a modest smile.
> As the wedding proceeded, Anonymous choked up for a moment during his vows, and Big McIntosh, his best stallion, gave him his handkerchief to dry his eyes.
> Spike looked positively adorable in his little mini tuxedo beside Big McIntosh as well.
> Shining cried his eyes out... exactly like you had remembered...
> Spike had offered him his tiny handkerchief as well while trying to calm him.
> Big baby...
> Everypony was happy celebrating, while Twilight got silly drunk.
> To be fair Anonymous wasn't very far off, nor were many others.
> The memory keeps a warm place in your own heart but it begins to bug you that you're losing what you were initially looking for..
> Are you losing track of the trail you were on?
> All you found was some persistent Flash memories.
> All of which she rejected.
 
> You don't doubt she still loves Anonymous, but you can't see where or why she went astray.
> Perhaps it's... something fixable after all...
> But her emotions are becoming increasingly difficult to read despite the clarity of the memory...
> Uhg.. this headache also..
> You need to keep trying.
> You can't forsake a bond of love without being absolutely positive for yourself..
*****
> You are Twilight Sparkle
> And your eyes are shut tightly as tears escape from them, staining the fur on your cheeks.
> Your body is no longer paralyzed by Cadence's magic.
> You sat up, your own horn glowing brilliantly.
> With a quiet sob and sniffle you whisper.
" You'll see I still love him... even if I have to fix up my own memories.." There is a trembling desperation in your voice as you struggle to keep your spell working on the powerful Alicorn and Princess of Love.
> More tears roll down your cheeks as your aura envelopes her horn, force feeding her your own interpretation of your past while she remains in a sleep like trance.
> The spell proved to be harder than you initially thought as you were already exhausted, and each omission, each.. edit.. of your memories began to add weight in your heart and stress that you had to carry while keeping it up.
> It's fortune for you she wasn't fighting it or being disturbed so you can influence her without resistance.
> She would be much to powerful otherwise to beat her at her own game.
> For now, she'll see what you want, and none of what you don't.
> She just needs some help seeing things without being clouded by... unnecessary details..
> Yet it breaks your heart still to have to use this.. deception on Cadence.
> No not deception, truth..
> It's the truth..
> Yeah..
> You'll fix things..
> Just like you said you would.
 
> You are Anon
"I'm sorry about that.." you and Shining break an awkward silent ice while you walk towards Cadence's room.
> "You know what Anon? I think that I don't even want to know." He said blandly facing foward while walking.
" Yeah... Sorry anyway..." you uncomfortably rub your neck walking by his side.
> Your little meltdown left you feeling humiliated.
> Yet the idea of having Luna be there for you to support you through this seemed to put alot of nerves at ease.
> You still don't mostly understand it, but with her helping you, you feel like you'll be alright.
> But that didn't help with the nerves with the situation at hand.
> You were about to be in a room with Twilight's sister-in-law and brother.
> And now Twilight as well..
> You had to be convincing enough to them to grant you a divorce..
> No problem right?..
> 'What could possibly go wrong. What havoc have you brought unto us now..' A quiet bass echos in your mind to accompany Shining's hoof clacks in the quiet hallway.
> Your eyes lower and shoulders sag slightly.
*****
> You are Celestia
> " M..more cake Princess? " A nervous server asks standing a small distance away.
> You only nod.
> Cake is good..
> Cake helps when you feel down.
> It's always there for you.
> Never putting you down.
> Or calling you lonely.
> Or running off with your star pupils husband.
> It's just good.. icing covered cake.
 
> Your aura grips a fork finishing off the plate infront of you, as the server brings out another.
> With the last bite stuffed in your mouth you begin to speak as your plates are switched.
" It wash shupposed chu be uh nish day." You motion with the fork while speaking.
> " Uh.. Y-yes. Princess. We were expecting to serve guests." The tiny earth pony nervously replies while her eyes follow the fork being waved.
> You shake your head after you swallow.
"I think those plans are over with my little pony." You practically shovel the next fork full into your mouth.
> The sugary sweetness comforting your down mood.
> You figure that whatever it was Luna was doing would be done soon and at some point you should greet your probably disappointed Crystal Empire guests.
> Shoveling another icing filled piece of cake into your mouth, you rise to your hooves trying to ignore your obvious depressed mood.
> You need to find Shining and Cadence.
> They were probably escorted to their room by now..
 
> With a huff you look back to your half finished slice of cake.
> Farewell faithful friend...
> See!
> Your not lonely!...
> You have cake friend!..
> Friend.. of.. cake..
" Uhggg..." you grunt at your pathetic train of thought as you exit the room, embarrassed as if ponies could have read that dialog in your mind.
*****
> You are Anon.
> And the awkward silence has already returned as you walk.
> You have to say something to make it better.
> Losing Shining as a part of your life would hurt you more than you would like to admit.
" Listen.. Shining.." you try to open some dialog as you walk fiddling your thumbs looking down.
> "hm?.." he replies still looking foward.
> He doesn't seem very happy.
"I uh.. I meant everything I said before.. I don't want to lose you as a brother.. and even if it turns out we're technically not anymore, I want you to know I'll still consider you one." You glance at him for a reaction.
> His head lowers and eyes soften a little yet still stares straight ahead.
> He stops walking after a moment and looks to you.
> "Anon, I'm having a hard time with this. A very hard time... Everything you say that happened is not the Twilight I know. She would never do this in a million years. And then here you are with Princess Luna.." his eyes seek understanding more than he seems upset.
> You raise your open hands, palms out, up towards your chest in a 'hold on' motion.
 
"Easy Shining, it's true. And I thought the same thing as you. That's why it hurt so bad~"
> "Let me finish..." he calmly interjects.
> You drop your hands and listen.
> "If you say it happened, then I guess it happened. You know very well that Cadence will find out anyway. But this Princess Luna thing... You two have become very close very fast... Very.. fast.. What gives.." He seems genuinely curious and less angry than he should be.
> You sigh rubbing your head again.
> This conversation is different than the 'bro talks' the three of you would have when you went out.
> Where one of you can glance at a passing mare and slap the others shoulder with a 'hey check out the flank on that.'
> He heard you say that you loved Luna...
> Hell it was the first time you even said it.
> And it wasn't even to Luna!
> It was to her sister!
> The word still frightened you, but everything you said was true.
"Listen Shining.. You wouldn't believe the things I have been through since this has happened.. All, sorry to say, because of Twilight more or less. Almost losing Big Mac, my family is down a barn and everything in it... I've been almost killed.. I don't even know how many times now courtesy of Flash.. This.. thing.. with my head.. I dont~" You halt your speaking as you notice he raises an eyebrow at you when you reference your voice.
> " Your head?..." He shakes his head head a little before speaking looking for clarification.
"Yeah.. never mind that... Point being is Luna was there for me every step of the way. I honestly don't think me or Mac would even be here right now if it wasn't for her. She's kept my spirits alive, and my mind clear. She helped me escape this disaster day after day and helped me from.. losing my mind.. so to speak.. I know you won't want to hear it right now, but she really is terrific... " You catch yourself gushing praise to probably one of the last ponies that want to hear it.
 
> Yet he simply nods once more.
> " You're right.. I don't." He continues walking.
> " But if you say so.. Then I believe you." He says glancing up to you.
> A quick moment passes before you toss extra information into it.
"She likes Vinyl Scratch too. " you smile a little knowing that will get some reaction.
> His ears perk slightly, "Ya?" He turns to you trying to keep a neutral expression.
> You nod with the same smile.
> " Huh.. I would have never imagined that.." he finally entertains a response.
"I said the same thing." You say in an agreeing tone as you tap his shoulder.
> He finally cracks a small smile.
> " Our rooms up~" He stops speaking as he looks down the hall.
"Wha~.. oh" Hooboy..
> " Good Afternoon, Princess Celestia" he does a courteous bow.
> Celestia stands several feet from the door you were approaching and just noticed the both of you nearing.
> "Oh, my dearest Shining Armor! I was just looking for you and Princess Cadence." She turns to you with a slight fade in her smile, "Hello again, Prince Anonymous.."
> Welp, that stings.
> Especially because she knew why you were here and that title, that you already dislike, won't be yours if you get what you wanted.
"Princess.." you nod.
> 'Oh my Anonymous. Look what you have dragged us into now. Do use care with our words now.' The amused voice harassed your thoughts.
> "We were just going to see her now. She's in the room with Twilight." Shining fills Celestia in as you all continue to the door.
 
> " Oh is she now?.." She turns her stare to you.
> You can't help but gulp.
> You had nothing to do with whatever Twilight did to get here but you have a feeling it's about to get blamed on you.
> If you knew Celestia was going to be here you would have asked Luna to come..
> " Well then why don't we all just go say hi." Celestia holds a faux smile at you.
> Even Shining glances back at you feeling your discomfort.
"Princess, you know my business here. So does Shining. Respectfully, I would like to have this be done and I will take my leave.." you politely remain stern while you meet her stare.
> Shining looks down, but Celestia hold her stare as well.
> After an uncomfortable pause she replies, "Very well Prince Anonymous.." she places a hoof to the large wooden door and pushes it open.
> " It is incredibly unfortunate that ~ " Celestia gasps stiffening and taking a step back.
> "What?!" Shining peeks in.
> " What the.. Cadence? Twily!" Shining rushes in.
> You peek your head in and your jaw drops.
****
> You are Princess Cadence.
> The party is jumping for Anonymous and Twilight at the wedding.
> Ponies mobbed the dance floor dancing drinking and cheering.
> Until the next song slows into a more intimate dance.
> Big McIntosh was dancing, swaying with Fluttershy, who had her eyes closed with a smile.
> Spike waddled up to Rarity extending his hand out for an offer to dance like the little gentle colt he is.
> " Oh Spikey Wikey... My big bold dragon.." She accepted his hand with her hoof.
 
> And there you were dancing with the love of your life, Shining Armor.
> Nuzzled comfortably into his neck swaying slowly and rhythmically. 
> For whatever reason you either can't or don't want to switch this memory.
> It's fuzzy as to why.. but you're enjoying the happy bit of it..
> They're so in love..
> You almost don't mind the headache as you watch them dance.
> It's a little awkward as she rears up with her forelegs on his chest.
> She was never a very good dancer, but she always did have fun..
> He holds her against his body looking down into her eyes.
> They both smile ignorant to the word around them as they share the moment together, lost in each others gaze.
> How can you forsake this...
 
> Everypony was there to celebrate the love and commitment between these two..
> Your self included.
> On a day that was wrapping up to rival that of a fairy tale.
> Twilight rests her head against his chest with closed eyes and a content smile.
> Her perfect mane still intact somehow after the events of the wedding.
> "Cadence?.." you hear the voice of your love, Shining Armor, as your remain nuzzled into his neck swaying
> He feels so warm.
> So comfortable.
> You don't even want to leave this moment.
*****
> You are Shining Armor.
"Cadence?! Twily, stop it!" You say almost panicked, staying just out of reach of Cadence unsure if you can or should shake her out of it.
> Unsure if that would help or hurt her.
> You knew your sister was much more advanced than you were with the over all applications of most magicks.
"Twily!" You try pleading.
> Her only reaction is her brow scrunching slightly as a few fresh tears spill from her closed eyes while she fights to keep control of her spell.
> Your eyes turn from Twilight's brilliantly illuminated horn, to Cadence's lavender aura covered horn, then almost desperately to Celestia and Anonymous who begin to cautiously enter.
"Princess Celestia! Do something! Please!" You almost demand her help.
> "I.. " she musters up composure "I need to figure out what spell she's using so I don't harm her or Cadence.."
> Twilight's eyes squeezed shut a little tighter with a sniff hearing Celestia's voice.
> "What do you mean figure out?! You're Princess Celestia aren't you? Shouldn't you have this stuff all figured out foward and backwards??" Anon chimes in dumbfounded.
 
> "It is not that simple Anonymous!" She shoots back clearly irritated by the comment.
> Twilight seems to tense up with a tiny gasp at his voice and the mention of his name.
> Anonymous glances from Celestia to the panicking Shining.
> "Do you both believe me now?.. Forget this..." He approaches Twilight.
> It's neither the time or place at the moment, but his story is seeming more believable at the moment..
*****
>
> You are Anon
"Twilight, I don't know what you're doing, but knock it off, now!" Your voice projects authority.
> She doesn't answer, but the brightness of her horn flickers as you speak.
> Cadence slumped over slightly with lightly closed eyes in her sleep like trance, now leaning into Shining who supports her from falling over.
"Why are you doing this to Cadence,  Twilight?!" You say loudly as you hesitantly get within reaching distance of her.
> Her intense aura flickers wildly from her horn casting hues of lavender across your features.
> Twilight finally shifts a little and speaks barely above a whisper.
> " She's seeing the truth... She'll see how much I love you now..." her second sentence wavers with desperation.
" Twilight.. Stop.." you say calm yet stern.
> "No." Her expression seems more determined after your words.
> " Anon! " Shining grabs your attention.
> You notice Cadence's nose begin to bleed as she laid weakly against Shining.
> Turning back to Twilight in shock you try to point out the obvious.
" You're hurting her!" Your voice picks up in anger as you pointed to Cadence in outrage.
> "It's ok Candy kisses... We're here now.. It'll be over soon.." Shining whispers to Cadence with his cheek to hers, as he takes her into his forelegs wiping the blood away from her nose, staining his own pristine white fur, and brushing some mane from her face gently rocking her.
 
> After a sniffle Twilight responds, " S-She's strong, she'll be fine.." obviously affected by the display of concern and affection.
> You look from Shining, who tries to provide comfort to his wife, back to Twilight.
" I said stop!" You bark
> " No! I'm not going to lose you! " She yells sitting up straight still with closed eyes.
> You turn to Celestia who clearly seems to be upset and lost in thought. 
"Celestia??" You search for an aswer with your hands out to the side, causing her to twitch.
> You become increasingly frustrated with her lack of help.
> " I.. The bond needs to be broken,  but I'm unsure as to how to do that safe~~" you cut her off getting the gist of what needs to be done.
" Bond broken, got it.." Without wanting to waste another moment you scoop Twilight up around her mid section almost violently.
> " Anonymous no!" Celestia cries out.
> Twilight grits her teeth as she's lifted from the bed while being turned away from Cadence.
> With a small grunt she pleads loudly,  "N-No! Stop!" She writhes.
"No you!" Your words are strained as she tries to sprawl her wings open to make you drop her.
> " Nnngh! I.. I cant!" Her eyes open wide as a bright light escapes them with a loud gasp.
> Your hold remains tight on her as a feeling of electric shock runs through you body, depleting your lungs of oxygen.
> It almost feels like when Cadence searched your heart before marrying Twilight, but different at the same time.
> Now, you can't move, as your own vision flashes white.
> This doesn't feel right.
> At all.
*****
> You are Twilight Sparkle
> It's finally becoming too difficult to carry the weight of your indiscretions, while maintaining this spell with all the distractions.
> The grip you had on Cadence's read of  you begins to fade as the weight of your heart begins to spill truths that you would have rather forgot.
 
"Anon please!" Your rear hooves buck away from him trying to shake lose as you feel everything begin to slip from you.
> You are only able to rotate in his grasp to face him.
> When you do, you are met by his blank expression.
> Oh Celestia!
> What did you do?!
> You tried to warn him!
"Nooo no no!" You panic out loud as he begins to tip over while holding you.
> With your quiet 'oof' He lands on his side his grip still tight on you.
> You try to hammer a hoof into his chest a few times to wake him up.
"Anon?!" You call his name looking for some sort of reaction from his frozen face.
> His look of shock breaking your heart.
> Your hooves land in quiet thuds.
> As powerful of a magic user that you were, you were still pretty physically weak.
> You try bracing your hooves to his chest and pushing away one more time but you feel the little strength you have left leave you.
> Facing him with welling eyes you decide to stop struggling and savor his touch while you can.
"Anon.." you close your eyes as you whisper his name and push the side of your face into his familiar chest with your forelegs around his neck.
> Just like how you danced on your wedding day..
> Your eyes open slightly as your hearing beings to muffle.
> You face Cadance through your disaster of a mane, who is being laid down on her side carefully by Celestia and Shining.
> Your horn still flickers dimly as you fight stubbornly to maintain your spell knowing it's a losing fight.
> " Do it.." Celestia says to Shining before facing you with eyes of complete disapproval.
> While holding Cadence he nods as his own eyes close.
> A blue aura lights on his horn that quickly expands to a blue bubble that encases him and Cadence.
 
> You feel an impact land to your horn and forehead from the adrupt severed spell.
> It was enough to jolt your head back suddenly and unexpectedly.
> A few tears roll from your partially  open eyes, the futility of the situation beginning to crush you.
> You sniffle and sob pathetically.
> Doing so fills your nose with Anon's scent.
> You cheek nuzzles into his neck.
"I love you Anonymous... I love you so much... I tried..." you feel unconsciousness begin to take you as you place a small puckered kiss to his jaw line trying desperately to find solace in this utter defeat.
> And if even just for a half of a second, you do, cherishing the feeling of his body on yours before darkness slips over your sight, and exhaustion, your body.
*****
> You are Princess Cadence
> "Cadence.." Shining has more of a serious tone now.
> Strange you don't recall him being serious about anything that day..
> A growing sense of shame nags the back of your mind.
> You look up to your husband's face which is now almost frozen still with his eyes closed and head angled down at you.
> The puzzled look you temporarily wore fades, almost forgetting you were looking back into a memory.
> Taking a look around you notice everypony is frozen as well.
> All except one, that glances towards you after looking around to the crumbling memory herself.
> Twilight...
> You can clearly feel the weight of her heart, the burden of secrets and the torment of lies withheld, pressing upon your own chest.
> Your head throbs more feeling as if the flood gates of hidden feelings and memories are about to surge fourth.
> What is the meaning of this?..
 
> Twilight adruptly looks away, her humiliation apparent as she cowers slightly while her facade of a memory and convenient truths fade and crumble.
> Her very mane, once impeccable, begins to fray and become messy, as the expression she wears goes from content and happy to exhausted and beaten.
> She seems to struggle as she cowers, while you try to make sense of this collapse.
> You begin to walk towards her as the scenery, along with pony after pony begin to fade from recollection.
"You aren't part of this memory are you.. You are putting yourself in here.." your tone is accusatory as you walk intently towards her.
> Her red watery eyes meet yours briefly.
> It was all the confirmation you needed.
> You pause a small distance away as your upset glare casts itself upon her.
"Which means you were probably only letting me see what you wanted me to..." you begin to piece it together out loud.
> It explains the difficulty you were having reading some memories and emotions.
> Because they never happened...
> She looks to the floor as tears drip from her tightly shut eyes, your own headache increasing in intensity while you try to maintain your composure.
> "No, What you saw is that I still love Anonymous. There's nothing anypony can say or do to change that... I'll do anything to prove it.." She says out of breath still clearly struggling to manipulate your own spell.
> Your eyes narrow at her, becoming angered by her attempt to fool you.
"Then why not let me see it myself Twilight.. Why try to force memories on me. You're clearly hiding something. You may still love Anonymous, but you're still keeping secrets. I can feel it in your heart. The burden, the weight of it..."
> She collapses to her belly as she appears to be losing strength, "They were.. mistakes I didn't want you to see, i don't want anypony to know.. but I do love him.. I do... i~" her voice weakens out as the forced memory begins to completely deteriorate.
 
> "Anonymous no!" faintly, yet urgently rings in your ears.
> The feeling of Twilight's presence almost completely disappears as her ability to block her memories is no more.
> The floodgates of her emotions and memories that she was censoring burst open like a broken damn.
> You are quickly overwhelmed by the unedited visions of everything you watched and more, all at once.
> Your eyes squeezed tightly shut and your teeth grit while you try to brace yourself for the bombardment of everything.
> Hoping to make sense of any of it.
> But it's so much at once.
> It was like needles in your brain, wave after wave of humiliation, fear, shame, excitement, love... everything.
> The memory of the end of Twilight and Anon's first date when she began to feel at fault for the upset Flash pushes it's self to the forefront.
****
> "Flash wait..." She looked to the floor
> He stops by the window looking back at her general direction but not at her, still clearly upset.
> "I.. I'm sorry.. I don't mean to hurt you, but it's just not going to work the way it has been. I do care about you. Its just... Anonymous is what I need in my life.." She says as if trying to reassure herself.
> Her words, although sincere seem to lack any real passion behind it.
> Only fact.
> He turns completely towards her walking to her, "Give me a chance, Twi..." his whispering voice pleads behind saddened eyes.
> You feel her heart skip a beat as he begins his beg.
> " Flash, no.. you had so many already.." She looks down.
> "Twi, come on.. I don't want to let this go..." he lowers his head a little trying to make eye contact to her averted gaze.
> Her heart flutters a little more.
> She is eating up his pleads for her..
> "I cant.." her eyes raise to look to him as he takes his final step closing the distance between the two.
> With a gentle chin lift from his hoof she stands face to face, eye to eye with him.
 
> "Just because you don't want to try, doesn't mean I wont..." his eyes soften as he looks into hers.
> Her heart seems to pause once more at his words and touch, as her brow slightly raises becoming disarmed.
> She notices that Flash is slowly closing the already small distance between the both of them.
> With a slightly still raised brow and softened eyes, she does nothing to tell him no.
> Nothing to stop him.
> So without any objection, his lips meet hers in a soft held kiss.
> Twilight's heart thumps with both guilt and excitement as she hums quietly into his gently pressed kiss.
> Her own lips responding with a light pucker, allowing him, silently asking him to continue.
> Her eyes lightly close as the feeling of being begged for, being wanted, overpowers any other sence for the time being.
> After a few moments of her logical mind pushing foward, nagging her, she shies away.
> "W-What?.." Flash whispers slightly out of breath, still keeping almost no distance between the both of them.
> Even Twilight runs her own cheek against his while trying to find the courage to say the words she needs to, almost intoxicated by this moment.
> After a quiet inhale and sigh, "It's time for you to go Flash..."
> He freezes for a moment looking at Twilight with mild shock.
>  She seems very unconvincing.
> "Ha.. I almost thought you were serious.." He places several small nips and kisses along her neck, causing her to look up with a silent open mouth gasp and a shiver.
> Her very stance becomes difficult to hold as he sends teasing chills of anticipation and longing through her.
> You find yourself unable to end the memory as the floodgates of them continue to overwhelm you, dragging you out into it like a rip tide.
> You can't stop the vision of Twilight unable to say no in that moment.
> "Oooh... You're going to be trouble for me...I can tell.." Her voice melts as he continues to tease her neck
 
> She ends up sitting back and laying down on the very spot on the floor she stood.
> Her longing eyes staring back at his.
> "J-just this once..." She tries to rationalize in her mind that it would be the last time.
> A granting of some sort of closure..
> Flash wears a victorious grin as traces a wing along her side causing her to shudder.
> Twilight's logical thinking is practically gone as the thrill of the moment over takes her.
> You get the idea of what's about to happen, yet are unable to move from the memory.
> Forced to watch as Flash lays atop of her as their embrace intensified.
> The passion picked up in their kiss.
> Twilight quietly moans in response to his touches.
> Forced to watch as they eventually began to rut at that very spot...
> You feel as if you were going to be sick...
> Her heart was pounding with the thrill of doing something so taboo.
> So, wrong.
> Yet despite the sickening moment, you are able to read some thought of Anonymous.
> How she thought this would be the last time.
> How Anonymous is what she truly needed.
> An idea that makes your stomach turn.
> How could she be doing this if she was thinking that?
> Without warning you find yourself lost in the current of her repressed  memories.
> Glimpses of her and Anonymous dating laughing, smiling catch your vision.
> But so do some encounters with Flash...
> You struggle to make sence of any of it as it all hits you so fast..
> After a moment, you find yourself back in her room preparing for her wedding.
****
> Darling everything will be fine. I'll make sure of it." Rarity places a hoof to Twilight's shoulder making eye contact with Twilight's nervous ones in the reflection of the mirror.
> "Th-thanks Rare.." She says quietly with the slightest of smiles.
> " Don't mention it dear. Now! Let me go take care of those two headaches!" Rarity rubs her back a little before heading for the exit her self.
> Twilight stares at herself in the mirror.
 
> A hurricane of nerves, happiness, love, fear, even doubt plague her.
> A persistent feeling of being let down picks at the back of her mind
> You saw this before too...
> Why is this moment, Her wedding day, coming back as well...
> Hoof clacks perk her ears once more as she looks behind her in the reflection.
> " As much as it hurts me to say, you look beautiful Twilight.." they continue towards her.
> Her heart thumps in a bittersweet ache, as small beads of tears form in the corner of her eyes.
> This time she wears a small smile.
> "You know you shouldn't be here, Flash..." her voice is barely a whisper as her heart ignites in the same taboo thrill.
> "Since when has that stopped me Twi?.." his cocky tone replies with a mischievous smile.
 
> "I know... But.. this is different and you know that.." She turns to him with a fading smile as she digs to find the strength to say what must be said.
> "No, it was different when you made me hide in a closet because.. he.. came home early" Flash does his best to hold his own confident smile as you feel a pang of guilt hit Twilight.
> She shifts uncomfortably at the memory, "I told you, all that's over now... I'm getting married..."
> "Trust me, I know.. I also know it's a mistake Twi.." he stops a small distance away.
> Any remaining facade of a smile fades as she looks to the floor with a sigh, "Don't do this again Flash... Please, we talked about this already.."
> "No, how could you keep doing what we did and still want to marry him?.. You know it should have been me, or you wouldnt have done it.. I'm what you need.. not this monkey." He does his best to calmly plead his case, failing at the end.
> She hops from her seat to face Flash clearly agitated at his insult.
> "That 'monkey' is going to be my husband..." she says sternly.
> "pffft..." He rolls his eyes over dramatically.
> "Flash, you knew what this was.. Fun. That's it, that's why it was only mostly early on.. Can't we just leave it like that?"
> "yeah.. mostly" Another sarcastic reply clearly irks Twilight.
> "Flash.." she snaps quietly, "Ya know, this is exactly why. You're immature, I don't need that anymore! I love Anonymous. He is what I need in my life. He listens to me, supports me and my decisions. Supports and helps all of my friends. He's a roll model for Spike.. I can have actual intellectual conversation with him.." she trails off to herself scratching her head with a hoof looking away, "Well.. f-for the most part.. What we had was fun, sure.. But i want a future..."
> "I don't care about him at all Twilight. I might not have lived up to your standards then, but i can.. And..." He steps closer looking desperately into her eyes.
> "I love you." He taps his chest with a hoof.
 
> "Stop..." She says still looking away.
> "No Twi!" The pleading look still on his expression.
> "What am I supposed to do? Just let you go? I don't want~" he winces at the unexpected retort.
> "I don't care what you want anymore! If you cared so much then you should have showed me earlier!" She shoots him an angry glare.
> "...I know.. I know you're right.. J-just give me a chance here.." he looks for any type of concession from her.
> Her angry look begins to fade as you pick up the ache in her heart.
> Almost the same feeling of a filly getting it's toys taken away.
> "Oh Flash..." she sighs dejectedly leaning her forehead against his carefully as not to mess up her mane Rarity worked on.
> His eyes close as they stand quietly leaning into one another.
> She pulls back slightly with half open eyes.
> He remains where he was opening his eyes as well.
> She brings a hoof to his cheek with a forced small smile.
> His eyes and posture immediately begin to sadden.
> "Twi..." he goes to speak but loses his words knowing what's coming.
> "Shh...." she drags her hoof to his lips, silencing him while leaning closer to him.
> Moving her hoof back to his cheek, her lips press lightly to his.
> His eyes closed as he reciprocated the embrace.
> His own tears began to bead at the corner of his eyes as he leaned into the kiss trying to prolong it, raising a hoof gently to her neck.
> Twilight began to pull back a little but he desperately leaned into her still.
> Twilight then shied her head away once again leaning her forehead against his with closed eyes.
> With out moving or opening them she spoke, "I loved you for so long Flash, and I always will in my own way. But it's time for you to go now. Anonymous is going to be my husband, and that's that.."
> A small sniff could be heard from Flash.
 
> You didn't need to be able to read him to see he was devastated.
> "It's a mistake Twi..." He whispers still leaning into her.
> " It's not. I love him. And even if it were, it's mine to make..."
> He steps back drawing a deep composing breath, looking up with red watery eyes.
> "Well then Twi, I guess you're going to have to learn the hard way that I'm right... You're choosing a beast over me.." he continues to back step.
> "I'm following my heart Flash... It's time for you to leave now..." she tries to stand tall as uncertainty plagues her heart and mind.
> Noise approaching the door makes her gasp and lower her body, as she whips her head in the direction of it.
" Rarity, can you at least fix the back? It's so tight on my flank!" The muffled raspy complaint comes from behind the door.
> She goes to turn back to Flash, but when she does all that she sees is the sway of the heavy curtains flapping gently with the breeze.
> Her heart remains heavy as she watched the curtains dance with the soft gusts.
> His scent still lingering in her nose, nagging her consciousness as she back pedals towards her seat.
> His words casting an annoying doubt, that worsened her already existing one.
> "Stop.. You're getting married.." She whispered to herself, taking her seat once more as she slouched staring off to the balcony.
> "You're getting married... This is the happiest day of your life Twilight." A smile of mixed emotions crosses her mouth as she coaches herself behind glassy eyes.
> The door pounds open.
> Pinkie springs in with her usual bounce in her step.
 
> " Whatcha lookin at silly?" She asks with her over the top energy.
****
> You are violently pulled from the memory as your now crippling headache makes any vision increasingly difficult to read.
> You need to escape this soon, but her tampering with this spell has made it difficult to regain control of it.
> For the time being you remain at the mercy of Twilight's overwhelming emotional roller-coaster only able to hang on as the memories find you.
"Sh-Shining.." you try to stammer, not knowing if your actually speaking his name.
****
> "Do you really have to go again? You know I have to go to Canterlot for a few days tomorrow.. I won't be able to see you" Twilight's dismayed face complains to a dirty dressed Anonymous packing a back pack.
> It appears to be some time after the wedding now.
> "Sure do. I've been helping with the farm since before I moved in with you. I promised Granny Smith I'd still help with the busy season. I can't just forget about them." Anonymous pulls up a pair of beyond worn jeans as he speaks.
> Twilight sighs clearly annoyed, "Yeah, but I feel like you're forgetting about me.." she whispers her complaint.
> Anon halts and looks down to her.
> "How could you say that?.. You know they're like my family. Or the closest thing I have to one here.. I went to your events and stood around like a 'good little Prince'." He does something strange with his fingers.
> "And you know I help when they need it. It's nothing new.." He seems confused that he needs to explain.
> " I suppose.. I just feel like our schedules clash lately... "She hoofs at the floor.
> A sharp pain shoots through your head as the memory goes almost static for a moment.
> It begins to make you nauseous.
 
> "Twilight? Ya mind if I go with Anon too?" Spike waddled unbalanced into the room wearing some creative vision of white farm boots from Rarity that matched a white gem studded cowboy styled hat.
> Anonymous placed a hand over his mouth to hide a silent laugh as he faced Twilight.
> "Ya hun, mind if.. pfft.." he almost laughs, "he tags along?"
> "What!" Spike notices making tiny frustrated fists.
> "Ill have you know Rarity made this ESPECIALLY for me!" He taps his thumb into his chest full of pride.
> Twilight smiles warmly for a moment.
> "I could have used the help Anonymous.. But he seems to have his heart set on going with you." She shrugs.
> "Yesss!" Spike pumps his fist victoriously before turning, "I'll be outside!" He scampered away.
> "Just don't let him do anything... dangerous... You know how clumsy he can be.." She tries to hide her concern.
> "Yeah, I know." He leans down lifting her chin up with a finger.
> She offers a small half hearted smile looking up to him.
> " We'll do something when you get back alright?.." he places several small kisses to her lips that she meets in perfect rhythm.
> "Alright.. the both of you behave then.." There is some defeat in her tone and expression.
> " I always do love." He places one more kiss to her lips before standing.
> "I love you.." she says somewhat blandly.
> " I love you too." Anonymous replies before picking up a back pack and heading out to meet Spike.
> " Spike! Let's go!" He calls out to him.
> You watch as Anon lifts his hand for a small wave to Twilight as he exits the room.
> Yet you become immediately confused as he closes the door behind him and the memory still follows Anonymous.
> " You ready bud?" He looks down to Spike who has his own little backpack slung over his back as well.
> "Yup!" He looks up excitedly towards Anon.
> "Okay then." They begin walking, " Now I'm going to say this because I care about you and I know you know I mean this with love. But lose the boots and hat.. They gotta go bud." He clearly holds back a laugh.
> "Anonnn!" He whines, embarrassed.
 
> You are Luna
> You lay on your side in your large empty bed with the sheets lazily tossed over you, eyes half open.
> Sleep seems to be a difficult thing to achieve lately as your mind races too quickly to take advantage of any recharge time.
> Something that you normally never had a problem doing.
> A frustrated sigh escapes you.
> What is taking Anonymous so long?
> Perhaps you should have went with him...
> J-just to make sure everything went smoothly for him of course..
> Your eyes shift to the direction of the front door as you contemplate finding him.
> 'And have us be further accused of stealing the brats husband? It is his task. His decision to make on his own. We will have no part of it Luna..' the chastising voice enters your mind.
> You toss over to your opposite side annoyed, looking across the empty bed that you just shared with him.
> 'Besides, your... desperate acts for his attention have been more than enough..'
> Your eyes close as you attempt to dismiss the intended insult.
> You try to recall Anon's words as you do.
> Him saying he loved you.
> It makes your heart still skip a beat just thinking about it.
> Having the bravery to say it aloud to both your sister and yourself.
> While you lacked the bravery to even act on your initial feelings for him.
> A small blushing smile finds itself on your face as you lightly nuzzled your head into the pillow he used, a funny butterfly flapping feeling finds its way into your stomach.
> You won't let that happen again.
> You will be brave, just like your dear Anonymous.
> 'Your memory betrays you Luna...'
> Your eyes open slightly at the ruined moment, awaiting an explanation.
> 'Do you not recall?.. You were the one who blurted out, carelessy so, that you loved him. He simply agreed when your dearest sister asked him if he feels the same way.'
"...What is the point?.." you ask aloud with bite in your tone.
 
> 'The point is, Luna, that you both stood up to your sister and proclaimed your love for Anonymous at once. He simply agreed.'
"Perhaps..." you say, resting your head on the pillow he was using the night before catching his faint scent while considering that point.
"It was still an act he did not have to do, and words he could have chosen not to say.." you try not to come off as defensive.
> 'Indeed.. He chose the wise words in an uncomfortable situation, that you thrust him in..'
" That's enough..." your patience runs thin.
> 'Once again, in a position where he must rely upon you to help. It's as if he only sees you as somepony to get him out of trouble, somepony to lend a helping hoof whenever ~'
"ENOUGH!" Your voice projects with power causing the heavy blinds to wave sending small rays of sun into your dimly lit room.
"Why must you insist on harassing us?! Anonymous wouldn't see us in such a way. He even explained it to his... brother, Shining." The idea of calling him a brother to Anonymous still didn't sit easy with you.
> 'Harass you? Dearest Luna, I can read your thoughts. Our thoughts. I seek only to protect you. As always... Since it will protect us. I can see that this is a thought in the depths of your mind as well. An insecurity.. A valid one at that..After all, everything is happening so quickly..'
"That will be enough of your.. input then.." you say through an angered brow as you pull a pillow towards your chest.
> You'll give Anonymous a few more minutes..
> Then you'll go to check on him..
> ..Just to make sure he's okay, of course..
*****
> You are Princess Cadence.
> "Listen Spike, I don't want you playing with any of the tools or equipment unless one of us is there to help you alright?" Anonymous speaks to Spike while facing foward, while Spike sits atop of Anon's back pack as they walked.
 
> "Aw come on!" he whines once more.
> "Nnnope." Anon replied with with a grin and closed eyes while approaching the barn to a dozing Granny Smith in her rocker on the porch.
> "Granny, we're here!" He says says loud enough to rouse her from her sleep.
> "Whaaa who nowww?.." Her voice is shaky as she sits up straight opening her groggy eyes getting her bearings.
> "Ohh! Mah booyy." she immediately springs to life with happiness holding her forelegs out open for a hug which Anonymous happily gives.
> "A..And Spikkee" She holds a little more forced smile noticing him and his large gem studded cowboy hat.
> "Hi!" Spike gives an excited wave hopping from his backpack.
> Anon chuckles a little, "Yeah.. He's going to help me out, you don't mind do you?.."
> "Of course nnoott!" She waves a hoof and watches the excited little dragon wander towards the side of the barn.
> She leans towards Anon, "As long as ya keep an eye on him sonny. Ah know he means well but~"
> " Yeah I know, he just wanted to come help out. I'll keep an eye on him. Promise." he smiled reassuring her.
> "Alright then boy, AJ n' Big Mac are round the back. They'll~" A loud crash stops her mid sentence as loose hay floats into view followed by a running chicken.
> You wince knowing who caused that "Spike! I told you not to touch anything!" Your hands drop to your sides in defeat.
> "Sorry! I'll put everything back just like~ Oh no!" Another crash causes Anon to cover his face to hide both his laugh and embarrassment as Granny stared at him with an 'I told you so' face.
****
> You are [still] Princess Cadence.
> And as much as this lighthearted scene helped relieve some of the pain you were feeling, for the life of you, you can not figure out how you're tracking Anonymous at the moment.
 
> Twilight is nowhere to be seen in this memory.
> You try once more to move from the memory you're in, but it only causes your head to hurt more.
> It felt as futile as trying to swim to shore against a heavy current that only pulled you further, leaving you exhausted.
> 'One of the all powerful Princesses trapped in her own spell.. Heh.. How can we not find the humor in this..' A deep bass rattles your body.
"Who.. w-what?" Your eyes go wide scanning for a source of the words.
> Fear grips your heart as you never experienced something like this before.
> As you do so, the memory seems to slowly freeze as the skies begin to go dark.
> It's cold..
> Very cold..
> The once puffy white clouds begin to turn darker then the night sky.
> 'Who, isn't important right now dear Princess. It's what's happening during this very moment in time that is. While poor Anonymous is here... Baby sitting this pathetic excuse for a dragon.. Preparing for difficult labor to help his working family...'
"W-What are you talking about?.." Cadence asks trying not to sound intimidated.
> 'Let us guide you...'
> The black clouds from the sky begin to circle and tighten around your vision, while a purplish fog fills the ground area.
> "I told you we can't do it anymore..."
> You can't see anything yet but you know that voice.
> It's Twilight.
*****
> You are Anonymous.
> And you are barely aware of what's happening.
> Snippets of when you took Spike to help you at Sweet Apple Acres keep playing in your mind as if you were watching a skipping movie.
> Your body refuses move and that damn voice will not quit..
> Like it's talking to someone else.
> About what, you can't exactly make out..
 
> 'While poor Anonymous is here... babysitting this pathetic excuse for a dragon...' echos in your mind.
> What?.. Is he talking about Spike?
> That asshole!
> What the hell did you do?
> The last thing you recall is scooping up Twilight to stop her.
> Then your body seemed to seize.
> Are you even awake right now?...
> "W-What are you talking about" a softer feminine voice echos.
> Holy... Is that Cadence?
> You try to speak, but are unable to.
> It's like watching a movie at this point.
> 'Let us guide you...'
> You find yourself being swept up in a blackish cloud as a familiar voice enters your mind.
> "I told you we can't do it anymore..."
> T...Twilight?
> The memory begins to pan out as if you were watching behind someone else's eyes.
> Twilight was at a desk in her library, with a half packed bag.
> Who is she talking to?..
> "How much does he have to show you that he doesn't care about you Twi... How bad does he have to screw up for you to open your eyes?" That voice... it causes your heart to squeeze tightly in your chest...
> The memory begins to fully clear out...
> And there stood Flash Sentry.
> Looking far too comfortable to be guarding a Princess,  with his helmet on a chair and spear leaning against the wall.
> "He doesn't deserve you Twi..." He stands on the opposite side of her desk placing a hoof atop of it as she looks down to her half packed bag.
 
> "Hold your tongue Flash... That's your Prince you're speaking about now..." Twilight tries to ignore him.
> "Hmph.. that's the first time you told me told stop doing anything with my ~" A sly smile stays upon his face before he jumps.
> You feel the muscles in your jaw grit your teeth at the comment as you are forced to watch and listen.
> "Will you stop!" She slams a hoof down on the desk staring at him both angry and embarrassed.
> He takes a small step away from it.
> "Alright alright..." he looks idly at a book on her table, "You're going to make this a boring trip aren't you." His tone suggesting he isn't surprised.
> "What?.." Twilight pauses closing the bag she was packing.
> "The trip?.. To Canterlot?.." he looks up to her.
> "W..What about it?" She seems confused.
> "I guess nopony told you?.. I'm on your escort detail. So, why don't we relax already and have a decent time with it. Since  obviously Anonymous is to busy to. Plus, " he sarcastically leans in whispering, "I hear it's not cheating if it's outside of the kingdom." He says with an immature snicker.
> Twilight blushes behind an angry brow, and goes to swat at his cheek for a slap.
> He pulls his head back quickly, "Woah, c'mon now.." he says playfully.
> "It's getting old Flash.." she tries to keep her wits about her.
> "Is it?.." He seems to become momentarily fed up.
> She nods not facing him.
> " Hm.. you see, here's what I think... I think, you're just enjoying the chase." He says through confident narrowed eyes.
> Twilight's nervous eyes betray her as she glances to him.
> "Th-thats ridiculous." She tries to dismiss the thought.
> "Really now?.. Then why haven't you had me removed from the castle details yet. Better yet, why not tell me I'm not going to be your escort detail for this trip.." He leans against the desk, still confident with a widening smile,"Go on."
> Twilight shuffles avoiding eye contact.
 
> "Go on, Twi." He insists
> She huffs, still not facing him "Have my things ready to go by the time the train leaves" she begins to walk towards the door.
> " That's what I thought " he says behind a victorious smile.
> "Well you thought wrong Flash." She pauses before the door, turning to him swiftly.
> "I love my husband. So.. he happens to be a little busy lately... So, I wish he were coming to Canterlot. So I wish a few things. So what..." she quickly rants and stomps a hoof in an almost small tantrum.
> "I never said you didn't love him, though that's beyond reasoning to me, but he is letting you down. And I'm still right here Twi.." he motions to himself.
> Her resolve clearly begins to crumble as she stares at him a little longer than normal not saying a word.
> "I..." she sighs, dropping her head and walking out.
> A black haze pushes the memory towards her bedroom where Twilight is sorting, clearly frustrated, through clothing and proper attires to bring.
> She mumbles to her self while her horn lights and dims and rejected garments fly over her shoulder.
> "Anon.. always has something better to do.. " She looks at a pale yellow slip dress with a pink bow, "Uhg, no.." It's flung behind her.
> "Why's he have to be friends with all of my friends.." She slides a new row of neatly hung dresses before her.
> "...While I'm carrying out the duties of a Princess...  Nopony prepared me for this.. " her voice becomes increasingly depressed.
> She sighs, pausing what she was doing looking back to the growing pile of clothes she left on the floor, and scans her empty bedroom with glistening watery eyes.
> She frowns a little and with a quick glow of her horn and snap, she appeared in her bed face down hugging a pillow sniffling.
> "H..Hey.. I hope you're not doing that because of what I said."  The door creaks as Flash pokes his head in.
> She remains with her face buried, while shaking it no.
 
> He silently closes the door behind him and walks quietly to her bed.
> "I didn't mean to upset you.. I just.. It still gets to me.. Ya know?.." his voice is soft as he appears to actually feel guilty.
> She doesn't respond as some more sniffles can be heard.
> "If you don't want me to go, I'll understand.." he says while hopping up on the side of the bed.
> A moment passes where neither of them move or speak.
> "I.. -sniff- I do love my husband.." she speaks muffled into her pillow.
> "Yeah.. you've told me that plenty.." he sounds defeated facing away.
> She squirms a little and turns to his direction enough to see him with one eye.
> She only watches him for a moment as he keeps his stare outside of the window facing away.
> He's sitting on your bed...
> On YOUR side of the bed...
> With one last sniffle, Twilight extends a foreleg towards him, her hoof resting on his back.
> With a small twitch Flash turns to her almost confused.
> "Wh-wha?..."
> "It doesn't mean I don't love him.. But I can't stand being alone anymore..." she can't seem to face him while saying that.
> "Twi.. " Flash appears to not know how to take that reasoning, but pivots in the bed to face her, now laying next to her
> His eyes search her averted gaze for an answer, but is only met by her shuffling again from where she laid.
> Her head moves from mostly buried in the pillow, to buried in his chest.
> His eyes soften at her willing contact.
> Although he froze for a moment his foreleg found its self pulling her into to him, holding her snugly as she hides her face in comfort and shame.
> Your eyes begin to sting and your heart ache as you are force fed this image.
> This supposed memory.
 
> Doing everything you can to move your paralyzed body results in nothing.
> You try to muster up a scream, anything to get you out of this nightmare but nothing seems to work.
> You knew your wife wasn't faithful..
> Hell, you saw it first hand..
> But you never sat and thought about it long enough to wonder how many other times it happened as well.
> At least to what extent..
> One moment of devastation was enough for you.
 
> You feel as if your entire body is both physically and emotionally breaking as you can't help but to watch her nuzzle into his chest, in your bed.
> You knew..
> But memories like this..
> The thoughts alone,  it's what kept you running away.
> What kept you avoiding any reminder.
> You already knew, but you never wanted to face it again.
> 'You have such a poor way of dealing with problems Anonymous.. This will hurt.. But you will have the truth..  It will make you... stronger.' The deep voice says in a somber tone.
> Another black haze pushes the memory foward to Twilight walking into her cabin on the train to Canterlot.
> A golden armor clad pony struggles to carry several bags she brought along for the trip, while Flash walks in tow behind her.
> "You know, you could help Flash..." He speaks through gritted teeth balancing the bags.
> "I could, but that wasn't my assignment now was it.. Go put those away and guard the property like Lieutenant Oath told you.." Flash demanded in an over authoritative, snobby voice while delivering an annoyed glare.
> With a sigh and mumble under the guards ponys breath, he left with Twilight's belongings.
> Twilight looked back over her shoulder to Flash as the guard was leaving before entering her private cabin.
> A look of mixed emotions of anxiety was clear on her face.
> Her head lowers to the floor before entering.
> Taking a few steps in she takes a look around and peers out of the window, her opaque reflection looking back to her.
> Upset half lidded lavender eyes stare back at her from the glass.
> The sound of a lock behind her seems to snap her out of her thoughts with a heavy blink.
> " You should get comfortable it's a long ride.." he said while taking a seat on as longer cushioned bench with an exaggerated sigh.
> "Yeah.." She still stares out of the window as she removes her crown with her aura placing it on an unused seat.
 
> The air in the room almost seems awkward between the both of them as she goes to take a seat beside him.
> "How'd you sleep?.." Flash asks as he faces foward.
> At the end of his sentence a memory briefly flashes, feeling like a kick to your chest.
> The quick unclear glimpse shows what appears to be a darkened room.
> Your room to be exact.
> Tossing, turning, heavy breathing.
> Some quiet gasps, moans and grunts.
> A tangle of yellow and purples.
> "Fine.." Twilight's words snap you back, focusing to the train.
> You don't want to see anymore of this.
> You get it...
> But you find it impossible to communicate that thought.
> That wish.
> "Final call! The train for Canterlot is now departing!" The loud call of the conductor pierces the background noises of the platform and hiss of exhaust.
> With the squeal of the metal and a lurch from the slowly accelerating train, Twilight ends up falling sideways into Flash.
> He looks down to her with a small smile, while she looks back up to him nervously.
> "Hey, try to relax a little.. Let's enjoy the trip huh?.." He chances a foreleg around her shoulder as the train rocks.
> Her body seems to tense at his touch but she does nothing to stop him.
> A short while passes as the train begins to steady out to its traveling speed.
> Twilight's shoulders seem to relax as she leans into Flash, resting her head on his shoulder.
> She looks up to him, head still rested.
> He, some what awkwardly, looks down to her.
> She smiles a bit at the awkward look he makes while trying to face down.
> "Wh-what!" He nervously asks.
> She says nothing as her small smile lingers.
> He shyly smiles back.
> Becoming emboldened by her smile, he leans down a little attempting to kiss her.
 
> Her eyes widen slightly seeing what he's about to try, and shies his approach away with with her cheek.
> "N..no.. No kissing..." she speaks quietly into his neck.
> He nervously backs up, "After what we~" he decides to stop talking feeling her tense up.
> "o..okay.." He looks foward with her still nuzzled into his neck, swaying together in the train car.
> Her eyes look up towards him though as her hoof begins to trace the details of his breast plate.
> The room remains silent while the occasional sway of the train rocks the both of them in unison.
> His grip around her shoulders tighten a little as her trace begins to lower towards his stomach.
> She inhales deeply near his ear while her trace still lowers.
> His head leans into hers as he begins to lose composure to her tease with closing eyes and slightly agape mouth.
> Her hoof slips past the hard metal of his armor and brushes against his soft inner thigh.
> He responds with a small gasp and twitch.
> You feel nausea build in you, physically  unable to look away from her advance on him.
> It burns in your mind.
> An insane type of jealousy pounds the blood through your heart, sending it coursing through your veins, as you are once more forced to watch.
> Dying inside little by little with every passing moment.
> Only this time, you watch as she does something she used to do to you, for you, now done to another.
> The way she breaths in his ear, pressed longingly against him..
> The way she trailed her hoof, gently across your skin to tease you, she does along his more sensitive areas..
> All things she used to do with you...
> You mind feels as if its ready to break as you are continually force fed this nightmare.
> This "truth" that you were perfectly happy being ignorant of.
> You watch with what you can only assume are dead eyes as they continue to more.. intimate moments..
 
> You are Spike
> Waddling your way with a protruding belly towards the entrance of the Canterlot castle, you let out a green firey belch that leaves a small smoke trail at the end.
> Your guards both wince pulling their heads away from you, before glancing to one another.
"Uhhgg. I think I over did it with the snacks.." you moan, glancing back to the guard with what was a full bag of gems.
> He looks back to mostly empty bag as well, turning back to you with a shrug.
> Your hands rest on your stuffed stomach as your expression saddens at the discovery.
"Oh nooo..." Your shoulders drop, "Keep the rest away from me, I need some for Rarity after all!" You don't catch your own shy smile at the mention of her name.
> "As you wish, Master Spike" He acknowledges your command with a sharp salute.
> You scrunch your face at the title.
> Anon never liked it when other ponies called him Prince all the time.
> He always said he never let the title get to him.
> He was always just Anon.
"Fellas, I know you have to do what you have to in the Crystal Empire, but when we're here at least, you can just call me Spike." You try to calm their intensity as you approach the doors guarded by a golden armor clad Pegasus and Unicorn.
> "As you wish, Master Spi~" The guard carrying the gems is cut off by a hip bump by his partner.
> "Ahem.. pardon me. As you wish Spike.." he holds his head high with closed eyes correcting himself.
"Great!"
> Just like Anon would have done!
> Your escort approached the Canterlot guards.
" Hi! We're here to meet with Twilight and Anon!" The excitement accidentally seeps into your words.
> The Canterlot guards glance from you to your guards before holding back a snicker.
> A quick whisper is shared between the Canterlot Pegasus and Unicorn, "~Hero's returned has he.." Both their faces scrunch holding back a laugh.
 
> Both of your Crystal Empire guards brows drop in anger catching the gist of what was said while you remain oblivious.
> "Of coursssee, Master Spike.. " with a bow and flicker of tangerine color aura, the grand doors begin to open.
> Your smile widens as you watch the massive front doors groan as they slowly open.
"No need for the title guys! Spike is fine. Thanks!" You stroll past them with a carefree wave and eyes closed smiling wide.
> Your guards keep their glare upon the Canterlot guards as they pass, clearly upset with the display of disrespect.
"Come on! I'll show you both where to put everything." You wave them over to you as they fall behind.
> It's been a while since you have been away from Twilight for this long.
> And never, since you were away from both of them.
> You want to get settled in so you can see Anon and Twilight already!
> There's so many stories to tell!
> Your small stride and full stomach makes it easy for your escort to catch up to you.
"Alright! Twilight and Anon usually stay in one of these rooms." You scratch your chin trying to remember as you make your way down a long hallway.
> Stopping infront of a door you shrug impatiently.
" Eh. This one's good as any. I guess we can drop the stuff off here for now and you guys can take a break." You motion to the room.
> They look to one another with another small shrug.
> "We shall guard the Crystal Empire's gifts here then. Thank you for your generous offer mast.. er..um.  Spike." The guard winces at his own forgetfulness.
" No problem! Thanks for watching over me! Now, you guys relax. I'm going to go find Twilight." You say snatching a book from the cart.
> They acknowledge you with a simultaneous salute that you do your best to replicate.
> But even you knew it was a little off as your hand approached your head too quickly, bumping your own forhead with it.
> M..maybe they didn't notice..
> Whatever...
> Time to find Anon and Twilight!
 
> Some time passes as you wander the hallways with one of the books Twilight was supposed to get, stuffed awkwardly under your arm.
"Anypony here?.." your voice echos down the barren hall.
> You weren't expecting a grand reception or anything, but it's bugging you that not even Anon or Twilight have shown face yet.
> This was the right day wasn't it?..
> "Anonymous no!" A muffled yet familiar voice echos in the hall.
"Huh?.." you pause trying to figure out which door it came from.
> The desperation behind it makes your heart skip a beat.
"Anon?.." you try calling out before continuing, clutching the book to your chest with both hands.
> "Anon please! " Another muffled voice calls behind a door.
> That came from the right..
> And that was definitely Twilight.
"Twi?!" Desperation clear in your call as your pace begins to quicken towards the door.
> A flash of blue illuminates from under the door, but this time it doesn't slow you down.
"Twilight, Anon!?" You cry desperately for an answer.
> Finally reaching the door that felt like an eternity away, your shoulder rams into it.
> To your surprise, the door gives way as you stumble in falling foward.
> "The book you carry flies foward as you put your hands out to break your fall.
"Ahh!" You let out as you land on your stomach and chest clumsily.
 
> You look up from the floor to see an unconscious Cadence, bleeding from her nose in the forelegs of a sweating, clearly concerned Shining.
> Your eyes widen as the blue aura died off from his horn as his determined stare shifted from a bed, to you.
> Slowly you rise from the floor and look to the direction he was just staring at.
> When your eyes turn to the bed, you feel your breath escape from your lungs.
> Anon lies on his side, looking strangely frozen and tired, gripping a disheveled battered looking Twilight to his chest.
> The book you dropped lies open to the first page on the floor as you remain frozen in horror and confusion.
> 'To the best little sister anypony could ever ask for. Thank you for letting us host our little hero. -Love, Cadence and Shining.'
 
> With a slight stumble foward you catch your balance reaching toward Anon and Twilight with the short length of your arm out foward.
> "Spike, dont.." The grit voice of Shining enters your ears, but your concern keeps you moving towards them.
> " Spike.." he let's out in more of a warning tone.
> The hand you hold out towards them grips into a fist as you spin towards Shining.
"What did you do to them!" You do your best to add aggression in your voice to hide your fear, while pointing a clawed finger.
> Shining raises an eyebrow pulling his head back in shock.
> "What did I do?!" He seems offended as he holds Cadence to his chest.
"I know that aura! I saw it before I got in here!" You say with accusation in your voice, your brow dropping in anger as you try to figure out what in Equestria is going on.
> "I didn't do anything! I'm trying to help!" He seems thoroughly offended.
> "Spike, we need your help. Pay attention." Celestia speaks sternly, stealing your attention from Shining.
> Help...
> You can do that..
"W-What happened?! Help what!?" You asked trying to restrain your panic as you turn between Celestia and Shining.
> "They're not well Spike..." Celestia responded with a somber expression.
>  Shining glances from Cadence, over to Celestia.
> He seems confused by her choice of words.
> "I need you to go find Luna for me while I look over everypony here." She speaks to Spike while looking over Anonymous and Twilight.
> "Princess Celestia." Shining blurts out quickly.
> "Are you sure that's a..." he glances from Anon to Spike, back to her, "a good.. idea.." he heavily emphasizes the last words, very slightly nodding his head towards Spike.
> Her eyes close before responding, understanding what he implies, "I don't have power over their.. state.. It may be more beneficial if Luna were here.." she speaks as if admitting a sort of defeat.
"What state? What happend?!!" You ask increasingly frustrated.
 
> "So I'll go get her instead, that way~" Shining speaks ignoring you, before being cut off by Celestia continuing their rapid-fire conversation.
> "No Shining, you need to stay with Cadence. I'm unsure why she isn't able to wake up by now, and you might be the reason she isn't worsening. I will keep an eye on Anonymous and Twilight until my sister arrives." Her voice seems to begin to lower towards the end, before Shining whispers back to her quickly and inaudibly, holding Cadence tighter.
> Why does he look so scared?
> "~~ Not going to understand.." you piece together some of Shining's pleading whisper.
> "~~He's going to have to understand.." you hear an angered whisper come from Celestia through her gritted teeth.
> You look back to Anonymous and Twilight as they argue, quietly exchanging heated whispers.
> Your hands make fists as you begin to run out of patience.
> Your blood begins to boil, being left in the dark the way you are.
> You need to know what's happening.
> Why aren't they well.
> What or who did this to them!?
> Why are they ignoring you!?
"Is anypony going to tell me what happened!!?" You almost scream turning back to them clearly upset, gripping your fists tightly at your side.
> Your breathing picks up and eyes begin to sting as a deep seated fear grips you,  while the person and pony that matter most in all of Equestria to you lie unconscious.
> They both state at you ending the whispering quarrel.
> Celestia is the first to speak, "You will have all the answers you seek brave little one. But first I need you to get Luna for me.."
*****
> You are Luna
> During your restless tossing and turning, your head somehow ends up by the hoof board of the bed.
> Your heavy sheets remain tented over your head, propped up by your long horn as you try to rest your eyes desperately, yet unsuccessfully so.
> Tossing to your side once more, a long sigh escapes you as you further tangle yourself in the sheets.
 
> 'Ironic is it not? We are the masters of sleep, weaver of dreams. Yet here we are, unable to enjoy what it is we do best.' The pestering voice says in a humored tone.
"You truly find humor in the most~" Your annoyed retort is cut off by a slamming open of your door.
> It causes you to jump, still entwined in the very sheets you tried finding comfort in.
> "Luna? Luna!" A familiar voice yells panicked into your room.
"What!?" You cry back in response being caught off guard.
> Your muscles tense as you attempt to stand from the bed in a knee jerk reaction.
> Yet you are only successful in rolling out of it, and landing in your cocoon with with a thud.
"Oof.. " You flail your forelegs trying to free yourself from the fabric entombment.
> The pitter patter of approaching tiny feet are heard during your dramatic struggle.
> "W..What are you doing?? Celestia needs your help!" Urgency clear in his voice.
"Our help with what?" You speak in his direction through the blanlet still sleepily disoriented.
> "With Twilight and Anon! They~" you cut him off with the fastest teleport you have ever done.
> The loud snap leaves you looking at him, nose to nose and wide eyed now, before the restraining blanket even hit the floor.
"Anonymous?! What happened to him?!" Your voice projects power, causing the little pet green dragon to cower a bit.
> He faces you though mustering some courage.
> "Something happened to them! I..I don't know what, Celestia said she needs your help!" He seems frustrated not being able to tell you exactly what's wrong.
> But he said enough.
> You KNEW you should have went...
 
> You grip him with your swirling midnight aura and raise him to your eye level.
> Your mane flows with your adrenaline filled energy as you peer into the small ones eyes.
"For your pitiful masters sake young Spike, let us hope our dearest Anonymous is fine.." you can't help the aggression that seethed  in your words.
> Though you are perfectly aware he had nothing to do with anything, and he looked up to your beloved Anonymous.
> But he was still Twilight's.
> "Wh-what are you talking about Luna?" He seems nervous and confused as he squirms in your grip.
> "Why for Twi's sake?.. Do you you know what's happening??" He stops struggling looking to you, now desperate for knowledge of the situation at hoof.
> His pleading gaze calms you, reminding and reinforcing that he is completely innocent in all of this.
> Completely ignorant in fact.
"We.. have an idea, young Spike... Let us go and help Anonymous." Your tone takes a complete calming turn around as you stand tall setting him gently to the floor.
> "Y-yeah! Let's go!" He turns to start running towards the door energetically.
> Your horn illuminates as he did, and with a snap you both left the room causing your blanket that now lies on the floor to gust back and curtains to wave lazily letting sunlight peer into your dim room illuminating it with its light golds and yellows.
 
> The split seconds it takes to arrive to your destination couldn't be over fast enough.
> What did that brat do to your dear Anonymous that your own sister required your help?
> That she would openly ask for your assistance, worse yet send another to ask for it, left you uneasy.
> For another brief moment, you felt a bit of guilt for taking your unchecked frustration out on the innocent little dragon as well.
> He clearly cares about Anonymous..
> And Anonymous, for him.
> Arriving with your head held high ready to give somepony an ear full, you are unable to, frozen in shock for a momemt as your dissapating aura clears.
> Princess Cadence laid unconscious  across the floor with her bloodied nose buried into her husband's chest, who appeared to be trying to keep it together himself.
> Celestia turned to you, wide eyed for a moment.
> Her stare upon you was as if she was waiting for some miraculous answer that would fix everything.
> It betrayed her appearance of control of the situation.
> "uhhg.." Spike groaned picking himself up off of the floor, stealing your attention.
> "How about a warning next time?.." he makes his way towards an occupied bed dusting himself off.
> Who's....
"Anonymous?..." The words escape you as a stunned whisper, while your own eyes grow wide and mouth agape in disbelief.
> "Luna, compose yourself. We need your help." Your sisters words fall upon your momentarily deaf, ringing ears.
> What is he doing?..
> Why is he in bed.
> 'Better yet, why is he in bed... holding Twilight?..' The voice blocks out any external ones.
> You feel your heart break just a little, as you take a step back wide eyed and slack jawed still.
 
"What is the meaning of this!?" You ask Celestia with pained eyes still locked on Anonymous.
> A chill of growing discontent runs down your spine.
> Your muscles across your entire body begin to tense at the display infront of you.
> "Yeah! I want to know too!" The tiny faithful dragon speaks up as well.
> "Luna... Now is no the time to~" Celestia tries to sound calm but you can't help to be fed up with her avoiding your question.
"Now is exactly the time, Celestia! What did you let that brat do to our poor Anonymous! You couldn't just be happy for us, is that it?! What did you let her do to him!?" You feel a pain shoot through your head and eyes, as your voice booms through the room in it's old, almost theatrical way.
> Shining's eyes widen as he glances from you to Celestia, who stares at you sternly meeting your gaze with disapproval.
> "Look at yourself Luna... Control yourself..." her words come off in a warning tone.
"Perhaps those are words you should have reserved for your precious student, Twilight! She was unable to control herself, yet here you are STILL taking her side! Over your own sister's!" You stomp a hoof into the floor causing it to rumble very slightly.
> Her brow drops saying nothing in return
> "Wh...what?.." The confused Spike asks aloud turning to you for clarification.
> Your stare remains locked on Celestia ready to reveal the unfiltered truth.
> How his selfish whore of a master put her petty wants and urges before her husband, her Prince.
> Before her honor of being a Princess, or even a decent mare for that matter.
> How she lied, cheated, manipulated.
"Then they have not told you yet, young Spike?.." You say with a slight sence of growing excitement, getting ready to revel in the slander you were about to spew about Twilight infront of Celestia.
> "Luna.." Celestia sounds disappointed seeing where you're going with this.
> A curt smile forms on your face before you break your stare from Celestia.
 
> Turning to Spike, you notice his clawed hands come up to his chest as he flinches taking a step back from you.
> You narrow your eyes inquisitively at his reaction to you.
> What is his~
> You feel your heart skip a beat as your head raises catching a glimpse of your reflection in a mirror Spike stands infront of.
> Your narrow, lighter teal filled, slit eyes stare back at you.
> A small gasp reveals your sharpened teeth, that you quickly try to cover with a foreleg.
> As you do that, you notice even the fur on your foreleg is beginning to infect your night sky coat with blackness like a spidering crack in glass.
> You have been losing control and didn't even notice it..
> Or at the very least, wasn't minding it...
> This is why Spike backed away..
> This is why Shining looked at you the way he did.
> It was the look everypony used to give you.
> A look of fear..
> Disgust..
> Every day reminding you that you were different.
> 'Celestia still doesn't respect you Luna... Why else would she continue to take Twilight's side on everything.. If it's up to her, you'll never have Anonymous.. You'll never be happy..'
"That's... not true.." you close your eyes speaking muffled into the foreleg that hides your teeth, trying to convince yourself of something you didn't really believe.
> "Luna please... Anonymous needs your help. Now isn't the time for this... Control yourself...Please.." your sister now pleads.
> '...Convenient enough that helping him is also going to help her little pupil..'
"Enough... "You whisper to yourself as you squeeze your eyes shut tightly.
> Tiny beads of tears form at the corner of your eyes as you try to regain your control of yourself.
> Even though a piece of you doesn't want to.
> A piece that knows it's right.
> It makes regaining control that much more difficult.
> The darkness in your coat begins to recede, and with a sharp ache you feel your teeth and eyes return as well.
 
> You hold your foreleg to your mouth still almost hiding behind it, embarrassed at the display you just had to correct.
> "Are you alright dearest sister?" Celestia's words strike anger in you for some reason.
"Yes... We are fine.." you almost whisper after drawing a deep breath and cast your gaze back upon your love on the bed.
> Spike uncomfortably scratches his head as he looks to Celestia.
> "We need your dream weaving expertise Luna.. Anonymous tried to snap Cadence out of a spell Twilight was using and ended up getting caught in it as well.." She says clearly upset with the situation at hoof.
> Your gaze seems more concerned as you start to notice he seems frozen instead of relaxed.
> You are unsure if he is even actually sleeping at this point since you can not sence any dream to enter from any of them...
*****
> You are Anon.
> Twilight's giddy giggles haunt your mind, "Stoppp. Hehehe." she swats playfully at Flash from the library floor behind her desk.
> He nips at her neck with his own smile standing, straddling over her.
> "Stop iitt" She whines behind her clear enjoyment.
"Please... stop.." you don't even know if anyone can hear you.
> Or if you even actually said anything. 
> But you do know you can't take anymore.
> "Ok ok, Anon's going to be home soon, that's enough." She lightly jabs his breastplate before a black fog rolls across the memory.
> You feel utterly broken, torn apart mentally and emotionally.
> Was everything with her a lie?..
> All of it?..
> It's worse than any physical pain that you can imagine.
> The black cloud begins to fade showing you and Twilight in your room.
***
> "Your helping out again? B-but it's snowing Anon." Twilight questions you seemingly annoyed as you tie your boots.
 
> "Which is why Ms. Cake needs extra help. It wont be long hun.. Plus you have your 'Royal Business' " you reach down lightly grabbing Twilight's jawline lifting it to look up to you, after making an over dramatic gesture mentioning her royal duties.
> "Ill bring back some pies and we can have some hot chocolate after, alright? It'll be like a little romantic snowy date. Just like we used to have." You bump your nose gently to hers before pressing a firm kiss to her lips and sneaking a opportune squeeze of her flank.
> Her nose scrunches after appearing doubtful.
> "You promise?.. You said that last time, and I didn't see you until the next morning." She says looking up with hopeful eyes.
> "That's because last time I wasn't done working until the morning." You give her another quick peck running your fingers up the length of her neck.
> "Mmm.." she leaned into you.
 
> You run your fingers from her neck, up and around her ear as she pressed her body into you.
"You're such a cat.." you lightheartedly joke, continuing to gently scratch her as she nuzzled into you.
> Her reactions to your caresses and scratches were your favorite.
> The feeling of being able to make her feel so happy from something so simple was always enough to bring a smile to your face.
> "I am not!" Yet she continues to do so, her childish tone making it difficult to take seriously.
"Of course you're nnoott.. You're a big powerful Princess.." your hand runs down the back of her neck along and through her mane.
> "Annoonn.." she leans her chest and neck into you, looking up to you with a pouty eyes and bottom lip.
"A powerful Princess who just so happens..." you take your other hand and place them both by her withers.
>  Dragging your nails up the length of her neck once more causing her eyes to close with a small hum and soft smile.
"To act like a cat..." Your hands reach back up near her ears, where you end your scratch and give her a light boop  to the nose with one finger.
> She huffs backing away with a scrunched nose and a playful, sarcastic angry expression.
> "You're so mean.." she says trying to hide her cracking smile.
"Mean? I could never be mean to you. I love you too much.. And as it so happens, I also love cats. So it's like a win win for you isn't it?.." you take a knee with a smile that usually followed your cheesy terrible jokes.
> She seemed to like them though, as her smile cracked through.
> "That was terrible Anon." She says through a giggle she hid behind a hoof.
"Maybe but it worked didn't it?" You smile wide bringing your hand to her cheek.
> Your thumb runs across it as she responds, "Maybe.." she smiles as you with her sparkling eyes loving the contact.
 
"Mhmm.. As you look like you're ready to purr." Your comment was met with with a playful jab to your chest.
> "Shut uupp." She blushes.
"Fine fine."
> You rub your chest a little before leaning in and meeting her lips with a soft puckered held kiss one last time.
"Gotta go anyway. You win this time." You say with your faux defeat.
> "Alright.. So it's a date tonight? Promise?" Her hopeful eyes look back up to you.
"Promise! As long as you're out on time too." You stand stretching your back.
> "I should be. I-i don't see why not. I would rather be spending time with you anyway." Her smile seemed to hide some saddeness.
> You figured at the time it was because she wanted you to stay.
"Ok, I'll see you tonight then. Wear something sexy for me." Your voice along with your wink was saturated in sarcasm.
> Another jab accompanied by a blush was delivered to your leg.
> You'll never admit it, but those jabs stung.
> Fucking hooves..
> "Maybe if you're on your best behavior.." she shyly says behind her blush.
"Well then. I shall be on my best then. M'laaddyy.." you bow slightly tipping an imaginary hat.
> "You're so weird Anon." She says after laughing.
"You love it. Ok, I'm going.. Love you" Your hand quickly and gently brushes her cheek.
> "I love you too you big goof. See you tonight.."
> With that you left the room, heading to Sugar Cube Corner.
> The walk was chilly as the flurries floated down from the cloud scattered sky.
> The light crunches of snow under your feet filled the initial quiet.
> As you got closer to Sugar Cube Corner, your smile grew.
 
> The sight of all the busy colorful ponies going about their daily business without much of a real care in the world reminded you how lucky you were to be here.
> It reminded you how happy you were to help and be apart of a community like this.
> Sure you married Twilight.
> And on paper you were a Prince of these ponies.
> But you never saw yourself in that light.
> You were just happy to be useful.
> To be wanted and appreciated.
> This was your home, and it was a dream come true.
> You finally make it to Sugar Cube Corner, opening up the front door with with a ring from a bell that hung above it.
> "Welcome to Sugar Cube Corner! I'll be right with ya!" Ms. Cake calls out from a back room behind the counter.
> You begin to dust the flurries off you as  the final puffs of cold air escape your mouth, disappearing from the warmer room.
"It's just me Ms. Cake!" You call out wiping your feet at the door.
> "Who's that? Anonymous?" She pokes her head out to check, her flour dusted cheeks rising to a smile behind her tired eyes.
> The babies must have been keeping her busy again.
"Eeyup." You offer a small wave.
> "Well aren't you a sight for sore eyes. What are you doing here? The snow is getting bad!" she wipes her face clean.
"I was supposed to help you with deleveries and all that today. Remember? I figured you could use the help because of the weather." You say while approaching the counter.
> "Oh, Pinkie Pie.." she sighs bringing a hoof to her face clearly upset.
"Huh?.." her off topic sigh confuses you.
> "She was supposed to tell you that~"
> The sound of a bell smacking a quickly opening door halts Ms. Cake.
 
> A vibrant Pink maned pony pokes her head in with excitement clearly visible in her bright blue eyes and wide smile.
> She begins to rapid fire her words, "Hey Nonny! Ms. Cake told me to tell you that there isn't going to be any deleveries today because the snow is too bad and that nopony is going to be doing anything really anywhere but then I WENT to go to tell you and then and I got AMBUSHED! I was trapped behind the snowy enemy lines for what felt like days!" She begins to catch her breath dramatically.
> "P-Pinkie.. Sweetie.. I asked you to do that an hour ago, not days." She holds a forced smile hiding her annoyance.
> Pinkies face becomes strangely serious.
> "You lose track of time when avoiding enemy fire on the battlefield..." her tone dropping lower as her gaze hardens momentarily.
> "There she is! Get her!" The cries from several young fillies enter the room from outside.
> Shortly after the thwap of several snow balls hitting the door above Pinkie thump in the room.
> "I've been compromised!" She giggles happily behind her closed eyes.
> "See ya!" She exits as quickly as she enters with a slam of the door and ringing of the bell.
> "You'll never catch the Pink bandit alive! Hehehe!" You watch as an unnatural amount of snowballs launch from her direction towards the scurrying laughing fillies.
> You watch with your mouth slightly open in amazement.. how the hell does she..
> "So, there ya go Anon. She was supposed to tell ya. I'm sorry ya wasted the trip." She says through a sigh.
> You snap out of it shaking your head.
"Oh, ya. Oh well no big deal. I guess I'll just relax here if that's alright with you. Twilight is going to be busy for a little while. I got nothing to do until then."
> "Of course sweetie! What can I getchya?"
"A coffee please. I got a hot date tonight I want to be awake for. " you can't help but to smile while saying that.
 
> She laughs while pouring your coffee, "Is that right now!? Maybe Pound and Pumpkin will have somepony their age to play with soon?" She shoots you a questioning smile.
> It causes you to feel like something is caught in your throat as you cough your way out of it.
"I uh.. AHEM!.." you scratch your head.
> Who turned on the heat??
> "I'm just joking Anon! Go ahead and have a seat sweetie. Let me know if ya need anything else." She slides you your drink.
> You can smell the sweetness of the sugar in it already.
> Jeez.
"Thanks!" You go and take your seat next to the window..
> Watching the vibrant colored ponies go about their day, as a black smoke begins to fill across the floor.
> 'And then I'm sure we remember what happens after this... Don't we?..'
> The sound of the bell above the door rings in a slow heavy warped tone as Apple Jack entered as the memory slows.
> Her mouth moved but you don't hear words.
> The colorful crowd outside begins to blur and streak.
> It becomes almost impossible to focus on any one thing.
> 'How could we possibly forget..'
> You feel a force pull at your chest bringing you outside of a snowy house staring at a fogged window.
> The snow dusting your clothes as the muffled sounds of sick pleasure assaults your ears and mind.
> Another pull on your chest brings you inside the warmer house, but you felt as cold as outside, the sounds much more clear and gold pieces of Royal Guard armor scattered the floor.
> 'They don't care about you Anonymous. They dont care about us.. It was all a lie..'
> The voice causes your heart to sharply ache.
> You're forced the memory once more as the voice speaks.
> Your hand reaches out infront of you to fully open the door infront of you.
 
> Not again..
> God please not again.
> You feel the tears welling in your eyes as you have no choice but to revisit all these feelings and memories you tried so hard to ignore.
> "Anonymous? Can you hear us? Anonymous?! Focus on our voice my dear!"
> Your eyes open wide hearing this as the tears welling in them begin to spill over.
> The voice of hope in your nightmare...
> 'Hmmm...' The voice grumbles sounding angry with the intrusion.
*****
> You are Luna.
> Standing over Anonymous you speak into his ear hoping to get any response.
"Anonymous? Can you hear us? Anonymous?! Focus on our voice dear!"
> Why can't you sence his dream?..
"Have you tried to remove them from each other?.." you say as you scan the both of them looking for anything out of the ordinary.
> Shining arcs an eyebrow, "I don't think now is a time for a display of jealousy Princess Luna.. "
> You recoil at his statement clearly offended.
"You said he was stuck in this state after picking her up did you not?" She motions to them, "Perhaps she still holds him in her spell through the contact. Although.. he shouldn't be prone to most magic use..." your voice fades during your last sentence, looking away trying to think of an answer.
> "O-oh.." Shining sheepishly responds.
> 'Most magic use does not include ours.. Focus on what is inside of him and separate him from that brat..' disgust for Twilight clear in the voice.
"Hmm..."
> It may end up trapping you as well..
> But at least you will be trapped with him, hopefully better able to help if needed.
> Your expression switches from deep in thought to determined as your horn begins to glow casting your midnight auras over him.
> "Sister, what are you doing?" Celestia's voice sounds concerned as she takes a step closer.
"Saving Anonymous..." your eyes close as you focus on Anonymous trying to latch on to his own familiar depths, his own Nightmare that dwells in him.
> The thing that your magic was actually effective on.
 
> You'll save your dear Anonymous.
> Just like you promised him you would..
****
> You are Anon
> 'This intrusion changes nothing.. Remember how easily you were cast aside and rejected by everypony..' the tone obviously desperate to recapture your attention.
> You feel a weight anchor in your chest that's keeping something from pulling you from where you are.
> Black fog begins to accumulate by your feet, and an icy chill up your legs and back.
> 'We would not even be here if it wasn't for me Anonymous.. Do not forget that.'
> The thick smokey fog accumulating by your feet begins to roll out infront of you, taking a vague form of a tarred, almost  silhouette shape of a pony form.
> 'You need me.. don't be fooled otherwise.' The stern bass begins to make your ears ring.
> A sharp tooth smile cracks from a forming muzzle area along with opening green eyes.
> A haze of purple mist trails from them while they open as a crimson horn becomes apparent with a deep red glow.
> Another pull from your core is felt as this dark anchor keeps hold on you.
> You remember this feeling.
> When Luna took you to her room.
> She was the only one able to use magic on you.
> It has to be her..
> But the weight in your chest keeps you from being taken anywhere.
"Let me go!" You try to demand the best you can.
> 'Once again so eager to seek help from others when you need to look no further than yourself. We can accomplish what needs to be done Anonymous. Others?.. Well other can't be trusted can they.. Others will hurt us..' His tone is heavy with drawn out, faux concern.
> The dripping tarry form turns his head seemingly looking no where in the dark before speaking again.
> 'Others will keep secrets from us. Lie to us... Betray us..' His small grin widens exposing more of his tightly grit teeth.
 
> You are Twilight Sparkle
"AANNOONN!" Your dry throat hoarsely  screams his name after a long inhale between sobs.
> It, like the entire time you have tried, results in no response from him.
> You have been forced to watch every.. 'mistake'.. you have made.
> Every moment of weakness and indiscretion.
> Worse yet, his reaction, his devastation to it all.
> This wasn't you.
> How could you let this happen.
> How could you trade in true love for a moment of thrill, a moment of cheap comfort.
> Your duty was to spread the importance of friendship.
> The need for unity and teamwork.
> And you have been doing the very opposite.
> Acting selfishly in secret, at a cost much to great.
> It feels like your heart is tearing itself to pieces watching his shattered expressions.
> Watching his wide eyed tears spill over.
> It's your fault... all your fault..
> "Let me go!" Anon barks out loud in the empty space.
> Who was he talking to?
> You weren't holding him here.
"Anon!" You're not even certain if this cry will be any different from the others.
> You begin to follow his eyes as they stare from his feet to a small distance ahead of him.
> Black smoke billows around his legs as his bewildered stare fixed to a spot you can't quite see.
> The now vine looking smoke begins to trail up the back of his legs.
> Tangling, twisting, moving higher to his lower back.
> A deep muffled voice can be heard as you try your best to make out what it says.
> Your heart seems to forget how to beat as a pair of terrifying eyes of green and red turn to you from the dark with a lazy purple haze trailing from them.
> Those teeth.. sharp as spear tips, expose in a devious smile as the silhouette of a body begins to vaguely form.
> The eyes that make the hairs on your withers raise stare directly at you.. almost into you.
> 'Others will keep secrets from us. Lie to us... Betray us..' His grin widens exposing more of his tightly grit teeth.
 
> A shaky inhale finds a way to put breath to your words.
"W..What?! You?..H-how?!.."
****
> You are Princess Cadence.
> While you were forced to watch Anon's past it began to dawn on you why you weren't able to control your spell anymore.
> It wasn't yours to control.
> It was no longer influenced.
> No longer misdirected.
> It was somepony else's entirely.
> Now the issue became how to escape it, not control it.
> Who could possibly be doing this?
> "Let me go!" Brings your attention to a trapped Anonymous.
> What was that creeping up his legs?
> "Anon!" Was that Twilight?!
> This is no memory..
> You try to quietly get closer to Anonymous, who seems to be staring out at nothing until a muffled bass voice catches your ears, freezing you in your tracks.
> 'Lie to us.. Betray us...'
> The voice from earlier..
> It has to be what's in control now.
> You narrow your eyes at a shifting black mass past Anonymous.
> Faint purple trails from it.
> Whatever it is seems to be distracted by something else.
> Maybe you can take this opportunity to get~
> 'Don't think we forgot about you, dearest Princess..' the closeness of that rattling voice just over your shoulder sends ice through your veins as you freeze, eyes wide staring foward.
> The hot breath behind the words rolls across your back to your withers giving you a sickening chill.
> Quiet slow hoof steps clack from just behind you approaching your side.
> You fight to maintain your resolve still staring straight ahead fighting off a trembling in your body.
> You take a short quiet inhale to steady your nerves.
 
"Why are you keeping us here?.." your gaze still upon Anonymous.
> 'For truth, of course...' the amusement  behind his words say otherwise.
> The clacks continue to approach around your side.
"Well I think I've seen enough truth, Mister?" Your last word hangs in the air questioning his identity.
> 'Mister?... Oh, no no...'
> The thick overlapping black smoke begins to roll across the floor in your field of vision.
> 'You know Cadence ... I planned on revisiting your .... 'truths' as well. And I have. You truly are the Princess of Love. Your life with your husband is not with out issue. It is no.. happily ever after filly fairy tale.. Yet your work and devotion to each other keep your love strong.. More important than any other problem that passes. It really is sickening... Tell me. How is that brute of a colt Shining?'
> Your heart skips a beat as your brow furrows, turning slightly in the direction of the voice.
"He is none of your business. Who, may I ask, is so curious to know" your adrenaline begins to betray your composure at his inquiry of your love.
> 'Oh, just an old acquaintance of the both of you... Feel free to call us Anonymous for~'
"You are not Anonymous!" You bark cutting him off.
> A deep chuckling echos in your mind.
> 'We are now... Out of curiosity.. How has Shining's horn healed?'
> Shining's horn?
> What an obscure question..
> The only time he hurt it was when you had to hold up the shield to the Crystal Empire and he...
> You gasp turning fully to the source of the voice.
 
> The sight of a partially formed silhouette with a sharp tooth smug smile stares at you, humored behind its wide green and red monstrous eyes.
> You stagger away from him falling back on your flank.
"N-no! Impossible! Anonymous! Help!"
> 'Come now Cadence, what kind of immature outburst is that...' He takes a slow step towards you.
"Let us go!" Your horn flickers before firing a shot of concentrated aura from it at his direction.
> It seems to impact him with little more than a 'umf' as a reaction, stopping his steps.
> 'Hmm.. Is that how we treat old acquaintances?.. You better be careful Cadence.. You don't want to hurt Anonymous, now do you?' He continues holding his smug smile.
> "Not Anonymous! Just you!" The frantic flapping of inexperienced wings can be heard.
 
> Twilight flies upward behind the partially formed specter.
> With a grunt he turns his attention to the exhausted yet determined young Alicorn.
> 'Haven't you done enough already?!' He snarls stomping a heavy, forming hoof to the floor.
> The thick curling smoke swirls where his hoof lands.
> Twilight's eyes glance from the abomination, to Anonymous, then to you quickly.
> Anon!
> Now is your chance to try to get him.
> "It'll be enough when Anon is free!" She rears her front legs while she struggles to stay airborne.
> Her horn flickers a radiant lavender.
> She seems like she is giving her all with her eyes shut tightly and teeth grit, but even you can tell she is weak.
> She must be trying to buy you the time to get Anonymous out.
> Turning your attention to him, you notice the advance of the smokey entanglement has stopped.
> He seemed to be coming down from some sort of daze.
> You continue to back towards him while facing the iminant conflict infront of you.
> Twilight leans her forehead towards the shadowy body, as the aura on her horn shrinks to a small sphere before projecting in a narrow beam at her grinning enemy.
> With a light tap of his hoof, unflinching, a wall of jagged onyx crystals raise from the shadowy floor.
> The beam from Twilight's horn is halted almost effortlessly.
> 'You've done more harm to Anonymous than anypony could have ever done young Princess... I have seen it myself.. I am the strength he needs now. You will just have to accept that. Accept that you have broken him... Driven him away..' He speaks with an almost emotionless expression.
> Twilight seems to pause at his words as they seem to hurt her more than any counter attack he could have done.
 
> Your flank bumps into Anon as you watch intently, causing you to jump and almost squeal.
> You raise a foreleg in defense as you turn, momentarily forgetting he's behind you.
> Yet you begin to relax as you see his expression.
> Defeat.
> Misery.
> Exhaustion.
> It's as if you forget what's going on around you for the moment as you recall everything that's happened to this poor Prince.
> Utter betrayal, lies, deceit.
> Your heart truly aches for him.
> But now is not the time for pity. "Anonymous. It's time to go. It's not safe here." You glance back to the squall between Twilight and the ghoul.
> Concentrated auras of lavender and Onyx crystals summoned by red auras hue the darkness.
> "...It's not safe anywhere..." he barely whispers as his eyes stare into nothing.
> You withhold your impatience from that reply .
"Sweetie.. Even if that is true, it's definitely not safe right here right now. We need to get you out of here. Come on." Your voice is as gentle as your desperation will allow placing your hoof to his icy feeling body.
> "It's just going to happen again and again.. If it's not today, it's tomorrow... if it's not a fire, it's Flash.." he turns to you, eyes watery red as if he's just finished crying.
> "They're right you know.."
> Your eyes soften at the sight.
"Who's right? About what?.."
> "All of them. I'm a monster.. a Beast.." he motions towards the occupied Sombra.
> You glance back toward Twilight who's knocked out of the air by a quickly rising crystal.
> Her inexperienced flying was very apparent as she's unable to recover from the strike.
> Biting your lip, you turn back to Anon. "You are not a monster Anonymous. You are a terrific, noble Stallion." You try to reassure him.
> "..Man.." he quietly corrects you.
 
"Man!.. But right now we need to think about more than ourselves. That's how life is. You need to focus on those you still love, because I promise they're thinking about you still. Right now I'm thinking about how I want to see Shining, to let him know I'm alright ..I know what happened with Twilight. I've seen it. And i don't support it." You glance quickly back again to see Twilight struggling back to her hooves.
"I'm sure you want to, at the very least, go see the Apples. Big Mac, Apple Jack, Granny Smith, Apple Bloom. Your family Anon. Think of them. They still need you. Spike still needs you too." You manage to rouse a reaction from him as his stare turns to the floor.
> With a small inhale he quietly and simply responds, "Yeah..."
> "Luna is probably worried too.." you over hear as he speaks to himself.
> You involuntarily flinch at the statement, also sensing his feelings for her surface.
****
> You are Spike.
> Frantically running down the hallway pumping your tiny arms, you approach the room your two escorting guards were left at.
"GUYS! Hey guys!" You yell between breaths.
> Approaching the door you slam it open, or at least try to, with the momentum of your run.
> They both wake from their beds with with a loud snort and clear confusion.
> "Wha-What?! Master Spike are you alright?" The brilliant bodied crystal ponies fall clumsily from their beds.
"Anon and Cadence are in trouble we need help!" They both seize as you mentioned Cadence being in trouble while you rub your shoulder you used to ram the door.
> Geez those things were solid..
> The Crystal Shield intended as a gift catches your eye as it glistens.
"Hmm... You! Grab that and let's go!"
> "Y-yes sir!" One of the guards awkwardly tosses the shield on his back, as you jump on the back of the other.
"C'mon!" You impatiently cry ignoring their clear confusion, yet determination to help their Princess.
 
> The Crystal Pony your ride almost knocks you from his back from the initial lurch of his dash.
> You squeeze his neck tightly trying to hold on.
> The sprint that only takes a few moments feels like an eternity as they gallop down the hall.
> What have Twilight and Anon gotten them selves into now?
> You begin to approach the door.
" That one!" you point your clawed finger.
> They say nothing continuing their sprint, huffing and snorting.
"Uh.. guys.." you let out timidly as they do not slow, approaching the door.
" Guys!.. Woah!" You raise your hands to cover your face as the door is slammed into by the other Crystal Pony, causing it to splinter slightly and violently fly open.
> The shield flies from his back, along with you from the others back.
> With a clank and scratchy screech, it hits the floor under you.
> Landing on top of it on your bottom, you slide across the floor on it coming to a slow halt infront of an eyebrow raised, unamused Princess Luna.
> You sit wide eyed in shock for a momemt before the guards cry out seeing the condition of their Princess.
> "P-Princess Cadence!" They sprint to the side of Shining, who still cradles his love with care.
> You look from them to Princess Luna who still stares at you inquisitively.
"I uh.. I brought this!" You pat the shield you sit on, uncomfortably smiling.
> "We see that... Noble spike..." she seems hardly impressed.
> This mare still scares the scales off of you...
> "Spike... now isn't the time to fool around..." a dismayed Celestia chimes in.
> You hop off of the shield.
"I'm not! Princess Luna's plan doesn't seem to be working, so what's the harm in trying something else!" You say as you begin to drag it to Twilight and Anon.
> "And what do you intend to do young Spike? Shield them from something?" Luna replies seeming annoyed by your interruption.
> Your shoulders drop feeling somewhat embarrassed.
> But you have to try something.
> Anon would..
 
"Well uh... not exactly..." you hop up on the bed they were laying across and reach down to the floor to drag it up with you.
> Your short arms have difficulty reaching though.
> "Then what?" Luna seems confused.
> You feel a blush form in your cheeks thinking your idea sounds worse out loud than it did in your head.
> "Spike?.." Celestia chimes in as well.
"I thought.. maybe.. I could use the shield to.. pry..Them a~... " you speak low fading to a mumble.
> "Excuse us?..." Luna blankly stares.
> You give up reaching for the shield and sit up with a quiet frustrated sigh.
"I thought... MAYBE.. we could use the shield to separate them.." you bluntly lay your idea out feeling foolish.
> Celestia's face seems to sadden at your words of desperation while Luna seems more impatient.
> Celestia picks up on the shortening patience of her sister.
> She quietly walks beside her and whispers, "He's just trying to help Luna.. He loves them both, don't lose sight of that.."
> Luna brings a hoof to her face to hide her shortening temper, "We are well aware dearest sister... But now isn't a time for coddling. We need to save Anonymous..." she speaks through gritted teeth in her last sentence.
> Celestia narrows her eyes slightly before replying with a quiet dominance, "Correct...And Cadence... And Twilight.."
> Luna matches her sisters gaze.
> Before she has a chance to respond a Crystal Pony chimes in.
> "Master Spike, that's a wonderful idea! The shield was specifically crafted for Prince Anonymous. It's supposed to nullify magic, just like Prince Anonymous naturally does! If in fact a magic bond is what holds them perhaps the shield can sever it!"
> Both sisters glance from one another to the Crystal Pony, then to you.
> You can't help but look surprised yourself, not really knowing that in the first place.
"R... Right! O-Of course! Thats what i was trying to say!" You proudly placed your hands on your hips.
> Sell it Spike, sell it!
 
> "It wont hurt to try Luna..." Celestia steps toward Spike while illuminating her horn with brilliant gold.
> "Here Spike.." her aura encases the shield in attempts to lift it, yet only manages to rock it slightly on the floor.
> "Erm.. P-Princess... it nullifies Magic..." the Crystal Pony nervously reminds her.
> Celestia does her best to conceal a blush, "Indeed it does.."
> Luna approaches it picking it up with a foreleg, "We will help you Spike."
> Her determined expression is a welcome change from her doubtful one.
"Thanks Luna!"
*****
> You are Twilight Sparkle.
> Your head hurts..
> Your back hurts..
> Your wings hurt..
> By Celestia, everything hurts..
> But you'll keep going to buy Cadence time to free Anonymous.
> Pushing your hooves to the floor, your achy body rises as you continue to take in deep breaths of air.
> 'He doesn't love you anymore, you know that right?.. He avoids the very thought of you..' the bass in his voice grips your heart as your head rises.
> You stare straight ahead, where he stood only moments ago, now peering into nothingness.
> 'I think you do.. But you can't accept it.'
His voice comes from just beside you echoing slightly.
> 'Because if you had to accept it.. It would mean that you failed. Not only as a wife, but as a Princess as well. What would the ponies think?... Your friends?
.. Celestia?.. All the nonsense you represent, everything that everypony believes you to be, gone..' it feels as if a rusty knife twists in your heart.
"That's enough!" You turn to the direction of the voice while your horn illuminates, shooting off a weak beam in it's direction.
> You hit nothing as it fades into darkness.
> Your horn dims as frustration grows in you.
> 'And your parents?.. What would they say?.. How ashamed they must be to have raised such a selfish little~' the voice that came from behind you is cut off by your about face and scream.
" I said that's enough! " You rise with a few flaps of your wings firing another weakly charged shot in the direction of the voice, once more hitting nothing.
> Your breathing becomes more erratic as you scan the area frantically and wide eyed.
 
> 'You were so accustomed to having such absolute control over everything and everypony. Always with a plan. Always with your little friends to follow your orders.. Everything to go your way all the time. And then you made your mistakes.. your choices with Flash... Now you're not in control anymore... Now you're the bad one in all of this. And it's driving you mad. This has little to do with Anonymous, and more to do with you saving face.. Saving your grip on control.. It's clear as day..' The voice explained with slow intentional pacing.
> You continue to look around trying to locate a source as it speaks.
> His words were maddening as you searched.
> They weren't true.
> They couldn't be...
"You're wrong!" Is all you're able to muster.
> 'Heh.. of course. That's why you are here fighting with me. To give your poor Anonymous a chance to escape with Princess Cadence. Like a good little filly trying to make things right.' It responds sounding humored.
> You lower down to your hooves trying to mask your look of shock while the chilling realization settled.
> He knew what you were trying to do..
> You turn your head to Cadence and Anonymous some distance away.
> 'Oh? You really think I didn't know?.. How adorably naive!' He chuckles lightly.
> 'Would you like to know what they're talking about? ' He begins to take a vague smokey form beside you facing them as well.
> You don't answer as your eyes remained fixed on Anonymous.
> 'Well I'll let you know anyway... He just told Cadence that Luna must be worried sick about him..' His smile remains as he watches you fight your devastation.
> Your lungs forget how to take breath for a moment as your eyes begin to sting and well.
> 'That's right Twilight.. Luna..'
"B-But..." Your mouth moves, wanting to speak.
> Wanting to say anything at all.
> But the weight behind the crushing statement robbed you of the ability to.
> You were here risking your life fighting with... A ghost? A demon?
 
> And he was worried about Luna?..
> 'So who's protecting who, young Alicorn. Are you protecting him from me?... Hmm I wonder..' the sharp tooth grin crosses it's faint features.
> A feeling of isolation, of complete solitude begins to invade you as your desperate stare remains on Anonymous.
> A chill takes you at the thought of not being able to change his mind.
> A cold slap of reality, that you truly may have lost him.
*****
> You are Anon.
> Your brow furrows as faint familiar voices enter your ears.
> "We will help you Spike.."
> "Thanks Luna!" The unmistakable voices of Spike and Luna clearly rings.
> Spike!
> He must be trying to help Luna get you guys out too.
> Your heart aches knowing what's awaits you when you wake.
> More pain..
> More disappointment..
> "Anon?" Cadence's concerned voice snaps you out of your thoughts.
"Huh?.. Oh.." You notice she glances back once more.
> She has to have noticed by now.
> There's no way she didn't..
> She probably thinks you're some type of monster too..
> Saying what needs to be said to escape.
> Your hand rubs your sore chest uncomfortably.
"Listen, Cadence.. I've been having some real trouble understanding this. With what's happening to me and all.. It's not my doing." Her attention fixes back on you as you clumsily trip over your words trying to find some kind of explanation.
"I guess what I'm trying to say is... I guess.. Try to have some understanding.. Some ~" A nauseating pull from your core halts your words.
> You stagger slightly trying to keep your balance as you feel the world around you spin.
> "Anon?!" Cadence offers a hoof to balance you.
> 'It seems our time here is being rudely interrupted. Before they try to get in your head.. Before they turn on you.. Remember our words. They will hurt you. They will hurt us.. They will fear what they don't understand. And understand us, they will not.' He speaks with a sence of finality, a sence of pleading.
 
> No smugness, or humor that usually accompanied his tone.
> For some reason, it made you believe him to a point..
> In your clouded mind, you still knew he was right.
*****
> You are Luna.
> You have not a clue what the tiny dragon is doing, but if the efforts are to help your dear Anonymous, you'll help.
> "I uh... I guess.. let's get the thing between them?. Ya let's do that!" His obvious doubt makes your expression involuntarily drop.
"Are you quite sure that is how this works?.." You do your best not to sound too doubtful.
> "Doesn't hurt to try!" His motivation picks up as he tries to wedge the crystal shield between your love and the brat.
> You can't help but to glance back to Celestia and Shining in disbelief of this plan.
> Shining watches curiously as his two Crystal Empire Guards watch with a determination and belief in their own home town hero.
> Celestia simply nods to you calmly.
> With a quiet sigh and stare to the floor, you raise your foreleg to help Spike wedge the shield between them.
> With a few wiggles and repositioning,  it begins to slide between them.
"What are we supposed to be looking~"
> Your words become caught in your throat as the shield flashes light blue and maintains its own aura.
> "Woah!" Spike falls back.
> By the stars is it working?!
> A slight groan comes from Anonymous as his brow furrows.
> It has to be working!
"Anonymous!" You accidentally yell desperately and wide eyed, scanning him for further response.
> "Cadence! Hun?!" The sound of Shining's emotional outburst turns your head in their direction.
> You notice she turns her head into his chest a little as well with a grimace.
> When you turn back you notice Celestia took to Spikes side scanning Twilight with worried eyes.
> "Twi? C'mon! Wake up!" Spike pleads.
> You notice a tear or two spill from her closed eyes, adding to her already unkempt appearance.
 
> You start to become impatient, expecting them to wake up, or at least give some sort of indication sooner.
> Drawing a long inhale you make up your own mind.
"We are going to try something. The spell should have weakened enough!" You speak loudly and sternly to be heard over the humming tone of the shield that still produced it's own aura.
> "Sister! Do not rush into what you do not understand!" Celestia tries to warn you.
"We understand that he needs help! That is all we need to know!" Your expression says you're determined to do it anyway.
> Celestia turns back to Twilight with a sence of defeat, knowing she will proceed regardless of her opinion.
"Ok Anonymous, come back to us.." Your horn illuminates a deep midnight hue as you focus on him once more.
> Finding what you focused on to teleport him from the burning barn, and to your room, you try once more enveloping him in your aura
> You use the spell gritting your teeth slightly as the aura pulses slightly.
> "Unng.." is heard from him as his back arced away from Twilight a little.
> Though he failed to teleport, he did move!
> An excited exhale leaves you noticing this.
> Oh stars! It's working!
> You try once more.
> Another grunt leaves him as a space opens between them.
> "You can do it Luna!" The unexpected cheer from the small dragon encourages you.
> Emboldened by his cheer you give it one final effort.
> Your jaw muscles clench your teeth tightly as you concentrate.
> The aura around him contracts tightly around him before~
> SNAP
> A few gasps from the room enter your ears.
 
> Followed by a loud clank of a crystal shield falling from the bed.
> It had nothing to hold it up as Anonymous was no longer there to support it.
> He now laid on the floor at the foot of the bed, face down.
> You couldn't hear or see anything else besides for him, even though a commotion was occurring on both sides of you.
> Scampering like a filly to his side you drop to the floor next to him.
"Anonymous? Dear?.." you say with a sence of both excitement and fear, placing a foreleg around him attempting to turn him in your direction gently.
> It already felt better that you were able to touch him now, though you were having trouble moving his deadweight.
> He was still very out of it.
> A small pat from little green feet jumping from the bed distracts your efforts.
> Spike stands at the corner of the bed holding a pillow from it.
> "Why are you calling him dear?" He approaches you with the pillow.
"Well.. uh.. um." You're not ready for this.
> "Here, let me help!" He puts the pillow under Anon's head with care.
> "I have a little experience with this." He grunts as he begins to roll him from his stomach to his side.
"Experience?.."
> "Yup!.. It's called guys night out, heh." He seems to be holding a nostalgic smile, forcing the weight of the severity of the situation away.
> "Every now and then. He tries to keep up with Big Mac. Well, tries to anyway." He fixes his pillow keeping Anonymous on his side facing you.
> Spike stands beside you facing Anonymous with a small smile.
> Placing a small clawed hand atop his head he speaks to you while facing him.
> "I knew you could do it Luna! I don't know what me and Twi would have done if we lost him" he turns to you with a warm genuine smile.
> It feels like it's breaking your heart.
> As much as you didn't care for Twilight, you could clearly see how much Anonymous meant to Spike.
> As bold of a front this dragon put on,  he truly was an innocent creature.
 
> You are Big Mac.
> With great frustration you hoof at your head, trying to remove the irritating bangages wrapped snugly around it.
> It's so itchy!
> You already removed the oxygen mask several times.
> It makes your nose dry.
> You hate it.
> "Ya'll need to calm it down Big Mac! They said they wanted to keep an eye on ya over night!" The authoritative tone of your bossy little sister barks orders at you as she tried to stop you with her flurry of hooves meeting yours.
"Nnnope!" You can't stand it here.
> "Granny will ya say something? Tell 'em to stop!" She looks over to the dozing Granny Smith who jolts awake at your voice.
> "huhwuhhaaa?.." she looks around confused for a moment.
> "He keeps tryna leave Granny!" You almost plead.
> It's time to get out, you feel fine!
> Well mostly...
> "Ohh, Apple Jack, all he needs is some fresh air, a good meal and plenty'a rest!" She waves a dismissive hoof.
> "But Granny Smith! Tha doctors said ~" The voice of reason is cut off.
> "Oh, kooks! The whole bunch of them." She settles back in her chair closing her eyes again.
> "Big Mac knows what Big Mac needs. Not some stuffy white coat fancy talking phony pony. Ya know, in my day!~" Everypony rolls their eyes with a small groan as she begins to tell the story you've all heard a hundred times already of how everypony is so lazy 'nowadays'.
> Apple Jack let's out an annoyed throaty sigh falling back into her seat.
> "Ya know what then? Don't whine to me later on ya big filly.." she crosses her forelegs slouching in her seat clearly annoyed, pulling her hat down low to cover her expression.
> But you don't care.
> Apple Bloom giggles at your bantering at the foot of your bed.
> You shoot her a wink as you remove the bandaging from your head.
> It brings the feeling of sweet freedom as you begin to scratch away.
> You begin to relax into your bed letting out a sigh of relief.
> "Nice mane Big Mac!" Apple Bloom points and laughs at the matted mess on your head.
 
"Eeyup!" You do a sarcastic flip of your mane before tossing a pillow at Apple Bloom.
****
> You are Aegis Dusk.
> You roll your eyes outside of the hospital room as their bantering continued.
> You're way to tired for this.
> Why can't they just be happy he's alright?..
> The little one seems to be anyway.
> Country ponies.
> You'll never understand them.
> Another white coated glasses wearing doctor approaches the door.
"Can I help you doctor?.." You asked unintentionally sharp with your narrow slit amber eyes staring him down.
> "Oh! Uh.. umm.." He catches himself staring at you and your featherless wings, and pretends to quickly examine a chart he carried.
> A small sigh escapes you.
> You're different..
> You get it..
> At least the ponies in Canterlot weren't so rude about it...
> "My n-nurses tell me that the patient is very.. adamant about leaving our care."
He speaks with his head buried occasionally sneaking a glance up.
> Placing a hoof to your face at his clear discomfort of you, you take a moment before responding.
"Yes doctor. He seems very insistent on leaving..." you answer with as much respect as you can muster.
> "I see.. W-well.. Hospital protocol states that we can not force him to stay. B-But.. Princess Luna and Princess Twilight insisted that he be taken care of. That being said there's not much more we can do for him besides manage whatever pain he has and let him rest. Nothing he cant do from home." He finally gets the courage to look up at you.
> A small crash from the room turns both of your attention to it.
> "Big Mac! Will ya stop! Get back in bed!" An angry Apple Jack demands.
> "Nnnope!" The defiant Big Mac responds.
> "Aww! You ruined the pies Big Mac!" The young voice of Apple Bloom whines.
 
> Your stare turns from the room back to the doctor with a sarcastic 'what do you think' face.
> "I uh.. I'll have the nurse begin the discharge papers.." he nervously informs you.
> "Whatever you say.. 'doc'" you turn away from him uninterested and resume your guard post staring blankly straight ahead.
> You were never one to question Princess Luna, but this is pure baby sitting.
> Day time baby sitting.
> Uhg...
> Why couldn't one of those do nothing sun lovers do this...
> Your skills are going to waste on such~
> A poke at an un armored piece of your flank seizes your heart.
> Who in the starry night?!
> With a swiftness that even surprised you, you step away while thrusting the blunt end of your spear in the direction of the unwarranted touch.
> It's followed by a deep clank and a breath stealing 'ung!'
> Your eyes widen seeing who you just struck.
> Night Tide holds a foreleg to his chest wincing slightly.
> "By the moon, what has gotten into you? Crazy mare.." he forces a grin though obviously pained.
> You look left and right assuring the hall is clear of other ponies.
"Tide! What the heck are you doing here!" You whisper wide eyed and concerned, yet aggressively.
> You don't even catch yourself placing a hoof to his breast plate as you closed the space between the both of you while your hushed tone scolded him.
> Also, you can't help but notice some swelling and small cuts still on his face from his little mysterious train scuffle.
> Never the less he holds his forced grin clearly amused with your reaction, "I was given leave for a while, so I came to check up on you.. Nice to see you too.."
> His grin always made your heart skip a beat.
> He was always so stoic, you rarely saw it.
> It made you feel special that you could break that in him.
 
> B..But not.. 'special' special...
> No.. that would be weird.
> Right?..
> Right.
"You should be resting then.." You puff your cheeks fighting off a small sence of embarrassment staring back at the wall.
> "I'm not exactly over exerting myself right now. Besides for your beatings." He left a small pause between his sentences.
> Your only flustered response is a light jab back into his chest plate, cheeks still puffed feeling stupid now.
> The clacks of an approaching pony draws both of your attention.
> You both lock up in your attention stance near the door way as a nurse wearing a small hat with a red cross approaches the room.
> She seems annoyingly cheery..
> "Hii, the doctor told me that Big Mac is going to be leaving us today! Mind if I go in and speak with them?" And annoyingly cheery she was..
> You simply stare for a moment and nod.
> "Thaaanks!" She trots in.
> "Oh my! What happened to the floor!" You hear her ask aloud as she entered.
> You both let out a little sigh after she's out of view.
> "Go get some rest Aegis.. I was able to get some on the way here, you've been up.." he offered in a gentler than usual tone.
"But.. you're on leave aren't you?.." you ask confused.
> "Yeah, but you know I have nothing to do. It's no problem. Really."
> Your cheeks warm again as he offers a smile.
> "Go on now." He gently ordered.
"Fine, under one condition." You try to maintain your calm collected appearance.
> "hm?.." he raises a brow.
"You'll tell me what happened to you on that trip with Prince Anonymous. You might have been able to get Princess Luna to ignore it, but not me." Your stare suggests that you're unwilling to let it go.
> His small smile fades slowly as you speak.
 
> "We'll see, just go get some rest.." the stoic persona you recognized so well found its way back onto his expression and body language as he took your post next to the door.
> Did you push too far?..
"Hmph.. I'll be back.." you feel a little bad, but you won't let him see that.
> Turning and walking down the hall to find a place to rest just for a while, you begin to think.
> What happened that he won't tell you.
> It really shook you that he got hurt..
> What if he didn't make it back?
> What would you do?
> You only wanted to know because you cared.
> But.. not like.. 'cared', cared..
> That would be weird...
> Right?..
> You look back at him standing proudly at attention.
> Even with his bumps and bruises..
> Pausing for a moment with a sink of your heart, you watch him from a distance.
> R-right..
*****
> You are Anon
"Uhhhg" accompanied an exhale with closed eyes.
> Your poor head.
> "Anonymous? Dear?.." The angelic sound of Luna enters your hazy hearing, cradling you back into consciousness.
> "Anon! You're awake!" The over energetic sound of your buddy Spike destroys your ear drums with a nauseating rattle.
> Your brow furrows as his voice puts a  ring in your ears.
"Not so loud bud.." you rasp with a dry throat.
> His still excited innocent laughter fills the room for a moment as you feel him dive into your chest and squeeze you the best his can with his lack of arm span.
> Your eyes open a little trying to focus the blurry world around you.
> You can see that Luna sits infront of you, though not clearly just yet, and the green mass still remains latched to your chest.
 
> You offer a one armed hug back to him as you begin to hear his sniffles.
"It's alright.." you try to reassure him.
> He buries his face into your chest to hide what you guess are tears, hopefully of happiness.
"It's okay, Spike. Calm down bud.." your dry voice tried to get him to relax as you pat his back.
> With your other arm your fingers brush along the soft coat of Luna's chest.
> Your eyes begin to focus to see her smiling with watering eyes down at you.
"It was you wasn't it?..." Your whisper was more audible than intended.
> Spike pulls away with a small sniffle after wiping his eyes and nose with your shirt, "Hey! I helped too ya know!" He exclaimed in his over dramatic confidence.
> "It is true Anonymous. Spike was indeed very brave and helpful." She happily praised him.
> Spike puffs his chest out proudly, but begins to notice your arm extended, and fingers brushing Luna's coat with a bit of affection.
> He shifts uncomfortably before offering you an attention grabbing elbow to your chest, "Pull it together Anon. I know you're out of it, but that's Princess Luna your touching right now, not Twi." He speaks out of the corner of his mouth trying to be slick.
> Luna winces slightly over hearing the comment.
> A pit forms in your stomach at his words.
> You really must be out of it still.
> You forgot he didn't know.
"Well.. uh.." you clear your throat looking away from both.
> Slowly you begin to sit up from the floor.
"Spike, we~" Your Savior cuts you off once more.
> "It's quite alright Spike. We understand. He must still be disoriented." She gives you a quick glance.
> "Heh! Thanks for understanding Princess Luna! Lemme check up on Twi!" He points up to the bed.
"Y..yeah.." you pick him up from under his arms like a child to place him on the bed.
> After he scampered off to Twilight's side, you look back to Luna.
> She offers you a shake of her head, which you immediately understand.
> She's right.
> Nows not the time..
 
> "Cadence?! Babe?!" Shining's cries grab both of your attention as he scooped her up into his chest.
> "mmmnng.." she nuzzled into him.
> "Sh..Shining?" Her tired baggy eyes opened just a little.
> "Cadence, I got you hunny bunny.. You're okay.." He hugs her to him snugly and begins to rock gently while speaking softly into her ear in the most comforting tone he can muster, holding back the emotions clearly at the flood gates.
> She turns to look up to him opening her glassy eyes a little more.
> "Oh, Shining!" She buries her face back into his neck with a light tremble holding onto him as if he was going to leave again.
> "I didn't know if I would see you again!" She sobs almost silently.
> "It was horrible!" Her words are muffled by his neck.
> "I know baby, I know.. it's okay now.." he tries to calm her approaching hysterics, running a comforting hoof down the back of her neck.
> She sobs a little more, "And Anon. I couldn't believe it Shining!"
> You gulp and glance nervously from her to Luna.
> "There's something wrong with him.." she begins to sound like she's calming as she pulls her head away from Shining and looks up into his eyes, her own red ones still spilling fresh tears staining her light pink fur.
> Oh no..
> You notice side glances from everyone in the room.
> Anxiety builds in your chest as you begin to fidget.
> You glance at the door wondering if you should just try to leave now.
> Save yourself the explanation, the doubt,  the accusations.
> Do what you do best...
> Avoid, run, ignore.
> Or would that worsen anything.
> Depending what she decides to say, You're unsure if words will get you out of this situation.
> Luna takes a seat next to you seeing your rising anxiety and whispers quietly, "Calm yourself Anonymous. We haven't let anything happen before. Now is no different.."
> You look to her as she offers a small smile.
 
> Something in her confidence helps put your nerves at ease.
> A trust you couldn't quite explain, but believed in.
> "Shining.. Anon isn't who he used to be anymore. I could barely recognize him when I saw him." She seems more sad than fearful now.
> "He.. he.." her head turns to both you and Luna as she sniffles.
> Luna's stare to Cadence becomes a little more stern as she shook her head lightly.
> You could only gawk like a deer in head lights as she made eye contact with you for a brief moment.
> As if she was examining what you were for the first time.
> A stare that you thought you wouldn't have to endure again.
> How could you know what to say when you barely understand yourself!?
> "What is it Cadence?.." Shining tries coaxing her to continue.
> "He uh..well.." she looks back seeming to get more of her bearings back after a few hard blinks.
> 'Don't say we didn't warn you...' Grumbles in your mind.
> Your stomach turns as the unwelcome voice adds to already nerve terrorizing momemt.
> Shining patiently waits while listening intently.
> "Twilight broke Anonymous, Shining.. I saw it.. all of it... It was... I just..." She stops speaking before looking back at you.
> She clearly wants to say more, silently looking with confusion.
> Wanting some kind of explanation, searching for an answer.
> Yet decided to quietly bury her head into Shining's neck once more.
> "I know, I know. They told me.. It's ok.. Shh~.." he rocks her.
> It feels as if weight just flew from your shoulders as Luna discreetly leaned against you in a silent reassurance.
> Celestia glances from the both of you to Cadence with a slightly raised brow, as Spike began to shake Twilight who remained out cold.
 
> You are Twilight Sparkle.
> Exhaustion paralyzes you, yet you still hear mixed voices and feel the cool air against your chest where Anonymous once was.
> That lonely cold feeling where his warm body should be.
> Your other half, the only other heart beat you wanted to feel against your body...
> Your mind is still racing even though you feel like your body refused to cooperate.
> What did you just experience?..
> Sombra?..
> Was that really him?
> Was it even real?..
> He was gone wasn't he?
> Were you really losing it?
> Another nightmare perhaps?..
> Your head aches as you consider all the logical possibilities.
> There's always a logical explanation...
> You feel yourself being rocked by some unknown source.
> "C'mon Twi, Wake up! We're all here waiting for you! Me, Anon, Princess  Celestia~" The concerned voice of Spike breaks up your thoughts.
> Anon is still here!?
"Mnnnng... Ano.." you exhale before finishing his name.
"..Anon?.." you manage to mutter one coherent name trying to force yourself awake.
> "And Spike! Don't forget about the hero!" He smiles widely seeing you rouse from your sleep, striking a proud pose with his hands on his hips.
> The speaking in the room stops, becoming noticeably uncomfortable as you do though.
> Spike seems to be the only one openly happy that you're coming around.
> Your bloodshot eyes peek open as the blurry sight of your beloved brother and sister-in-law law come into slow focus, staring as if you were some sort of monster.
"Sh..Shining?.." you notice the way he holds Cadence in a protective manner with Crystal Empire Guards at each of his sides.
 
> "Don't speak Twilight.. You need rest.." Princess Celestia's voice behind you anchors you to reality.
> She places a gentle hoof to your shoulder.
> You stare at your brother and Cadence for a moment feeling tears begin to well in your eyes watching his gaze upon you.
> He is holding her as if you were going to spring from the bed and attack her.
> Utter Disappointment..
> Disgust..
> What did you do...
> What in Equestria did you do..
> "H-hey Twilight. Are you alright?" Spike joins Celestia in placing his small comforting hand on your shoulder.
> You turn to face him and notice your love, your husband Anonymous sitting on the floor at the foot of the bed next to Princess Luna.
> He was looking to the floor, facing away while Luna stared back at you for a momemt.
> Her expression screams obvious displeasure in you.
> Her teal eyes judging your very existence in the moment.
> Your breathing picks up as your heart began to painfully race.
> Your adrenaline begins to surge.
> Why is she here?
> Why is she sitting with him?!
> Was all that real?
> This isn't happening!
"No.. Nooo!" You tried to sit up, realizing you had failed.
> Not only have you failed but you were caught red hoofed.
> Everypony will know it too.
> They won't care that you just wanted to make things right again.
> They won't care that you don't want to lose Anonymous.
> Or see how sorry you are.
> The futility of the situation begins to crash around you.
> Only this time it wasn't a nightmare or collapsing dream.
> It was finally coming down around you, for all to see.
> There's no reason Cadence will be on your side now.
> Not after that.
 
> All that will be seen is your mistakes.
> You thought you could handle the spell!
> You KNEW you could!
> What went wrong?!
> "Twilight relax!" Spike tries to hold you back on the bed.
> You didn't realize you were hyperventilating.
> Spike..
> He doesn't understand..
> Nopony understands!
> You're going to lose him!
> You were just trying to make it RIGHT!!
"Spike! Dont! Let me go!" You weakly plea.
> "Twilight, stop it..." Celestia holds you still with one hoof which only makes you squirm with uncontrollable anxiety.
> The world seems to be falling down around you, and you can't do a thing to stop it.
> Not even move.
> "Twi. What's the matter?! Calm down!" Spike seems to become more frightened by your mood.
> By now you're weakly bucking trying to get free.
> You either are too exhausted to use your magic, or Celestia is doing something to suppress it.
> The feeling of helplessness and impending finality begin to drive you mad.
*****
> You are Spike.
> And you are completely clueless and frightened right now.
> Twilight seems to be freaking out, and nopony seems to give a hoot.
> What's wrong with them?!
> Shining sits, staring coldly, turning Cadence away from the sight in a comforting defensive hug.
> Princess Celestia is holding Twilight still with an almost emotionless stare, while Princess Luna stays beside Anon looking back periodically and whispering something to him.
"Anon? A little help here?.. Please?.." you petition for his assistance while trying to hold it together yourself.
> You definitely don't like seeing Twilight like this, and it's beginning to bother you that Anon doesn't seem to care either.
 
> Still, he doesn't respond to you and only looks down to the ground a little more.
> "Spike let me go! He's going to leave me! He's going to leave us! You dont want that do you? Don't let him leave us Spike! I'm sorry Anon! Please believe me! I'm so, SO sorry!" Her hysterics are almost full force as she sobs between sentences, trying with her complete lack of strength to resist Celestia's hold.
> Her pupils almost the size of pin points as she almost insanely pleads to you and Anon.
> Leave you?
> Where is he going?
> He's right here..
> She must really be out of it..
"Twi?.. Did you hit your head or something? Anon is right here! Relax! Everything is going to be fi~" You try to reassure her, but it only makes it worse.
> "No! He's going to leave us Spike!" She continues to flail and sob between her whines and grunts of effort to get free.
> "That's enough Twilight.." Celestia speaks sternly, clearly disapproving of her behavior.
> "No! I helped him! I still care! I still love him! Not Flash! He's my husband and Luna CAN NOT have him! If I didn't care I wouldn't have just saved him!" She continues to rant.
"Save him from what Twilight?.." You ask looking to get any kind of bearing on her thought process.
> "From Sombra! Anon, I can help you! Let me help!" She cries, reaching towards him with a foreleg.
> The room gasps almost in unison.
> After your own gasp and hard gulp, you remove a clawed hand that somehow found its self over your mouth to speak.
"B..but.. I.. I mean we.. didn't we already.."
> "No Spike! I saw him, just now! He's inside Anon! His head or something, I don't know!... I dont understand.. That's why he couldn't wake up! Right Cadence? You were there, you saw!" She turns to Cadence with a pleading look waiting for her to confirm her far fetched outburst.
 
> You feel your heart drop as you glance to Anon who puts his hands over his face avoiding any ponys eye contact.
> Twilight waits a moment for Cadence to respond, trying to catch her breath from her lengthy hysterics.
> You begin to feel uncomfortable with her outburst not knowing what to make of it all.
> She's not making any sence.
> Leave you guys?
> Sombra?..
> Luna?..
> "Cadence!.. You were THERE!" Twilight desperately calls to her.
> "That's the logical explanation! There's always one! That's why he's trying to leave me!. Luna wants him to, Sombra wants him to!" She continues to rant obsessively.
> Cadence's only reaction is a nervous glance from her to Anonymous, before burying her head back in Shining's neck.
> Twilight looks up to Princess Celestia, with a look bordering wide eyed insanity. "I'm telling the truth!"
*****
> You are Anon
> 'Not the one who I assumed would... tattle... But still right I suppose..' it let's out a mildly humored chuckle.
> Dear sweet Jesus, she's going to get you killed...
> You rub your temples with your hands firmly as she begins to rant, trying to calm your over loaded nerves.
> They all seem more confused than anything else, which you suppose works for you for the time being.
> You do your best to hide your tremble at the mercy of the situation for the moment. 
> "Anon, what is she talking about?.." The innocent voice of your little buddy, Spike unexpectedly crushed your heart.
> He's the only one in the room that doesn't know..
> Luna leans down to your ear speaking gently, "Anonymous, We are perfectly aware that it isn't our place to say but.. Perhaps you should take little Spike from this.. situation and explain what is going on. He looks terrified." Her tone seems sympathetic to his confusion.
 
> She's right...
> Plus you need to get out of here..
> You're lucky that her terrible outburst made her seem more crazy than believable for the moment.
> You need to take advantage of that.
> "Anonymous, is any of this true?.." The voice of Princess Celestia freezes your body as a lump forms in your throat.
> You even feel Luna tense lightly next to you.
"E...Excuse me?.." you stammer out turning to their direction while beginning to stand.
> You notice Cadence unlatched herself from Shining's neck, as they both awaited your answer.
> Cadence seemed nervous for you as you caught her side eyeing Twilight and Celestia.
> "You.. Have been acting a little strange Anon.. Different.." Shining spoke before Cadence delivered a swift jab to his side causing him to shoot her a confused 'what?' Look.
> "Anon?.." Celestia draws your attention back to her.
> Her stare feels like it pierces you.
> As if she can see all your shame and secrets.
> "Is it true..." Her tone drops becoming dangerously more serious.
> You hate to admit it, but it scares the shit out of you.
> 'Whatever your next decision is Anonymous... Again, don't say I didn't warn you...' The bass is no comfort to your precarious situation.
 
"Princess Celestia?... You cant be serious?.. You believe this?" You put up the most indignant tone you can muster while motioning to Twilight, disguising the fear the best you can.
> The only thing in the forefront of your mind is the idea of how she banished Luna to the moon for a thousand years.
> And that was her sister.
> You can only imagine what would be held in store for you...
> "A-Anon! How could you say that!" Twilight stares at you in wide eyed shock and disbelief.
> You can't help but to meet it with a look of overwhelming anger.
> 'Still thinking about only herself in a situation like this... I almost feel sorry for you.' It mocks you causing you to clench your teeth tightly.
> Luna chimes in as if to keep you from putting your foot in your mouth, "Dearest sister... Whether this..." She searches for the proper phrasing, keeping a cool level head while speaking, "..outburst is to be believed or not is irrelevant at this very moment.. This is neither the time nor place to discuss it. Especially so soon. Clearly young Twilight is upset and willing to say anything at the moment to divert the attention from her actions... And clearly it's working on you already.. You question Anonymous on a far fetched accusation made by her almost immediately, but make no mention of what she did to both Princess Cadence and Anonymous just moments ago?.. And for the most part dismiss his claims of what amounted to an assassination attempt?."
> "Say anything?! I'm telling you what I saw! You husband stealing~" A golden aura envelopes Twilight silencing her for a moment, before a crack echos in the room.
> Celestia clearly looks like she has entertained this enough maintaining her dominant stare.
 
> "Woah! Princess!" Spike recoils, " Where'd you send Twilight!?" The poor confused dragon looks up to an angered Celestia.
> She still maintains her stern stare to her sister while answering Spike, "To my quarters Spike... She needs to relax."
> Luna meets her stare looking almost mockingly calm.
> "We're sure she does..." You can tell she holds her tongue out of respect for Spike.
> "Anon?" Spike turns his attention to you.
> Your heart aches at his lost defeated expression.
"Y...yeah buddy?.." you try not to project your pain that quickly melted away any anger you felt.
> "Can you tell me what's going on now?..." you know he knows for the most part, but looks for your confirmation anyway.
> He always looked for your word as fact for almost anything..
> You break your attention from him looking to Cadence and Shining.
> Even they seem to be hurt by the nature of his discovery as they face almost awkwardly away.
> You're on your own..
> You break the sisters stare with your next words.
"Yeah bud... c'mon.." you stand with some small difficulty and lightly pat your leg signaling him to follow you.
> His eyes lack the excitement and luster they usually had as he makes his way to the end of the bed, hopping from it waddling along beside you.
> "Where do you think you're going Anonymous.." Celestia asks with faltering patience.
"To talk to Spike... Princess" you can clearly see you'll never gain any ground with her.
> She will always be in Twilight's back pocket,  not matter what she does.
> "You will not leave this castle until we speak... Understood?" She speaks almost down to you.
 
> Who the...
> You catch your nose flared and teeth grit from the manner spoke to you.
> You only offer a sarcastic small bow to acknowledge her.
> Spikes tug on your pant leg brings you back to the sobering reality as you hear Luna mumbling to Celestia, probably in your defense.
> How do you even begin?..
> How detailed do you get?..
> And how much do you dumb it down?..
> As much as you hated Twilight for doing what she did to you, you can't stand that it's going to effect Spike as well..
> If you didn't deserve it, he certainly didn't.
> At the same time, Twilight is like his mother figure...
> And you can't pit him against her.
> Even though she just tried to more or less do that...
> You leave the grumbling room behind you as you enter the hallway with your pint sized buddy beside you.
> He stares straight ahead obviously trying to keep his big boy face on.
> It doesn't look good on him...
> You much preferred the bright eyed, innocent energetic smile..
> Him hanging on your back, asking you a thousand questions.
> But there is no avoiding this, especially not after Twilight's little meltdown...
"Spike, you know I love you right bud?.." you force the words to begin the dialog.
> But the meaning isn't forced.
> It couldn't be more true.
> "Y..yeah.. -sniff- I love you too Anon.. I was a little scared before... But I didn't give up. Because I knew you wouldn't either." glancing down you can see his eyes already begin to water as he continues to try to act tough.
> It's like daggers in your heart.
> Icy cold twisting daggers...
> Uhg... here we go
 
"Before I say anything else, I want you to know that will never change. No matter what happens? Okay?.." you approach the door to the gardens as you finish the sentence.
> The golden yellow sunlight temporarily limits your vision as you exit the castle hallways with what you considered a son beside you.
> "Y-yeah I know.."
"Good.. Never forget that.."
> Time for some explanations..
*****
> You are Luna.
"And on what grounds will you keep him from leaving here! He came on his own accord to properly end things with his adulterous wife, almost gets killed in the process, has your precious little pupil do stars knows what to both him and Princess Cadence, and you still take her side?!"
> "The safety and security of Equestria and of all my little ponies residing in it, are the grounds Luna. If Twilight is correct~" She sounds like she's really reaching for the theory Twilight spewed.
"Listen to you Tia! We're beginning to think you just want her to be right to save  the embarrassment of what she's done! Right in front of your very eyes! Or is it more than that?.. Are you trying to save face because if she fails it means you failed..." you added unintentional punch to your last sentence.
> An uncomfortable cough in the room reminds you that Princess Cadence and Prince Armor are still there with you.
> You decide to stop your rant, both because you forgot who you were doing it infront of, and you could tell you got your point across.
> You notice her tells, only a sister would notice, that your words have landed heavy once more.
> The way she looks slightly above you, the way she lifted a front hoof from the floor after you were done speaking...