Canterlot Castle: Medical Ward

Josh quickly sat up in bed, gasping for breath as he did so. Pressing one of his bandage wrapped hands to his similarly wrapped chest, he looked down at himself, wincing. “I look like crap.” He muttered dryly. Closing his eyes for a moment, he groaned, running his hand through his hair as the door to the hospital room opened. The clip clop of hooves raised Josh’s curiosity, and he raised his head to see who entered the room. A grey mare with a lavender mane, holding a clipboard in front of her with magic. Looking up, she blinked as she made eye contact with Josh.

“Oh good, you’re awake. How are you feeling?” Josh grimaced as he scooted back on the bed.

“I’m sure I feel alot better than I would if you just used practical medicine. Magic is part of the reason I assume?” The nurse nodded as she walked over to a machine that was situated beside the bed.

“Yes, we only use the most modern of medicinal treatment here at the palace. And that includes all forms of magic that can possibly be used to help treat our patients.”

“I see.” Josh said quietly as he glanced out the window on one side of the room. “When can I be released?” The nurse glanced again at her clipboard, tutting.

“It would seem that Princess Celestia has scheduled your transfer for later today. You’re going to be moved from the palace to the town of Ponyville. A.. Golden Oaks Library?” The nurse raised an eyebrow, confused. “Why would she want you to be moved to a library.” Shaking her head, she frowned. “Either way, it’s not my position to question the Princess.” Turning her attention back to Josh, she looked over the bandages on his hands and chest. “I would like to let you know that it would be in your best interest not to use magic like you did yesterday. I mean really, absorbing lightning straight from a cloud? You could have badly damaged your ley flow patterns. There will be massive scarring on your palms where you took in the energy, let that be a reminder to you on what not to do in the future.”

Josh frowned as he clenched his hands into fists, wincing as a brief wave of pain lanced through his body, forcing him to shudder. “I’ll be sure to remember that.” He said quietly through clenched teeth. The nurse nodded, flipping to another page on her clipboard before making a few notes.

“Well, everything seems to be checking out alright. I will prescribe a full week of rest, no more magic usage until you get better.” She glanced once more towards Josh before turning and heading towards the door. “I’ll finish the preparations for your transfer, you can expect to be out of here within the next couple of hours. I’ll be sure to send somepony to inform your friends.” Closing the door behind her as she left the room, silence filled the stillness. Looking down at his hands, Josh sighed and muttered a curse under his breath.

“What a pain…”

Canterlot Castle: Guest Suite

Twilight paced back and forth in her room, her gaze darting out the window every few moments. Josh was going to be released from the medical ward in a few hours and Twilight had made sure that his stuff was all placed back into his bag.

“Twi, you’ve gotta calm down, sugarcube.” Twilight stopped in place and looked towards one side of the room where her friends were seated, watching her. Sighing, she hung her head and looked out the window.

“Josh is going to be fine, darling. They’re going to be doing some final checkups on him before they allow him to return to Ponyville with us.” Rarity added, glancing around at the others, everypony’s gaze seemed to fall to Rainbow Dash who rolled her eyes and threw her hooves into the air.

“Of course he’s going to be okay! I don’t think something as lame as a few broken ribs and that thing with his magic is going to keep him down for long.” Spike nodded in agreement with Rainbow, walked over to Twilight and rested a claw on her withers.

“Come on Twilight, why don’t we finish packing up, see your brother off before he has to leave back to the empire and then go and meet Josh as he’s released.” Twilight smiled softly, wrapping her hooves around Spike in a hug.

“Thank you all, you’re right, he’s going to be okay and then we’ll all go back to Ponyville together.” A cheer echoed around the room as her friends beamed happily at Twilight’s re-found optimism.

Canterlot Castle: Royal Chambers

“Were you able to trace the magic left behind by the teleportation spell to it’s source, dearest sister?” Luna asked quietly as Celestia slowly opened her eyes. Looking over to Luna, her eyes heavy with lack of sleep, Celestia nodded. The two sisters had canceled Day and Night court shortly after the previous day’s incident, dedicating their time to tracking down the the Scions of Darkness that had assaulted their castle.

“Yes Luna, I was able to pinpoint where their base of operations seems to be located. Getting there won’t be difficult, unfortunately I can only send one pony there because of where it’s located.” Raising her head, Celestia met Luna’s gaze. “It would appear as though the ‘Master’ had his island moved to a pocket dimension outside of our own. The space around the island seems to be heavily protected by a strong defensive spell meant to keep anypony except those that the ‘Master’ allows, out.” Luna nodded in understanding, frowning.

“Does this mean that thou wouldst send young Josh alone to combat him and his scions…?” Celestia closed her eyes and looked away. “We shan’t allow it.” Luna said simply, firmly stomping a hoof on the floor to make her point clear. Celestia sighed before looking back to her sister.

“What if it is the only way, Lulu?” Celestia said quietly. Luna smirked, ruffling her wings and raising her head high.

“Tis not the only way, dearest sister, for thou seem to be forgetting that there are two of us. I shall use my magic to go there myself and assist young Josh.” Celestia’s eyes widened before she frowned.

“I thought you were over speaking in the old ways, Lulu.” Luna looked away, her cheeks darkened as she blushed, embarrassed. Celestia giggled softly. “In all seriousness, Luna. I don’t think it would be wise for you to go with Josh. Which is why I’d like to suggest that we send Twilight.” Luna blinked as she opened her mouth to respond. Raising a hoof to cut her off, Celestia continued. “I would not want this to happen for some time though. Which is why I’m suggesting that we wait until after they both have been trained a bit more in the magical arts.” Luna sighed before nodding in agreement.

“Yes, that would probably be for the best.” She said quietly, her eyes filled with worry for the two students.

“Once Josh recovers.” Celestia said, continuing. “I would have a swordspony sent down to Ponyville to give him some proper training.” Luna raised an eyebrow curiously, slightly confused. “Think of it this way.” Celestia said, crossing her hooves. “If he would be able to excel in not only magic but swordplay… He’d be a force to be reckoned with. As for Twilight, I’ll be changing up her coursework to give her more practice in not just defensive spells but also offensive. After their training has been brought to a close, I’d be more worried for the ‘Master’ and his scions than I would be for Twilight and Josh.” Luna frowned.

“Do you really believe that they can become so great as to elicit worry for our enemies rather than our students, dearest sister?” Celestia nodded before levitating a chart from across the room over to herself. After looking it over, she passed it over to Luna. “I have no doubt in my mind at all.” After glancing across the information of the chart, Luna’s eyes widened.

“He doesn’t have the sheer magical prowess of my faithful student, but it’s above that of a university trained unicorn.” Celestia said, watching as her sister looked over the information again a few more times. “If that could be harnessed, he could definitely stand a chance against the Scions.”

Canterlot Castle: Medical Ward

Josh groaned as yet another unicorn doctor entered the room and used some sort of scanning spell on him to measure his magic. Having given up asking about what they were doing each time one came in, he laid back in the bed and held his phone above his head, flipping through his music. A few doctors had looked at the device curiously but hadn’t bothered to ask him what it did.

Coming up with an idea, Josh grinned as he waited for the next doctor to open the door. Having turned up the volume on his phone as high as it could go, he watched as the doorknob was encased in a violet light and slowly opened. Turning his attention down to his phone he waited a few more moments before pressing play. The opening to the song he picked blaring loudly.

“Can’t you see who I am, I’m invincible!”

The music began to play as Josh looked up, his eyes meeting Twilight’s. The rest of their friends followed her into the room as the song continued. Pinkie and Rainbow Dash breaking into grins as they rushed past Twilight and hopped/flew onto the bed.

“Hah! I knew you were okay!” Rainbow began, rubbing her hoof over Josh’s head, giving him a noogie.

“Well duh! Of course he’s okay, besides the bandages and the fact that he almost lost his ability to use magic already, he’s completely a-okay!” Pinkie said cheerfully, causing everyone to look to her, blinking. Josh glanced back towards his phone and quickly turned off the loud music.

“Oh my…” Fluttershy said quietly as she made her way to one side of the bed that Josh was on, placing her front hooves on the bed as she looked him over. “Oh you poor thing, you must be in so much pain.” Looking up at him worried, Josh smirked, ruffling Fluttershy’s mane.

“No need to worry about me, I don’t plan on leaving this world yet. And honestly with all the magic they poured into healing me, I don’t really feel too much pain.” Rolling her eyes, Rarity stepped beside Fluttershy, glancing over at Josh’s coat, haphazardly thrown over the arm of the nearby chair. Taking it in her magic, Rarity levitated it over to herself, looking it over.

“Oh Darling, look your coat!” Rarity exclaimed, placing a hoof over her forehead dramatically. “As soon as we get back to Ponyville, I’m going to take this to my boutique and fix it up. If you’re going to be getting into such dangerous situations, I’ll have to make it a bit more resilient.”

“Oh don’t ya’ll think that you’re being just a tad bit fussy?” Applejack said, still standing beside Twilight. Everypony turned and looked over at her, confused. “What ah mean to say, is our friend Josh here looks completely fine. Let’s do what we came here for and help him out.” Josh raised an eyebrow as his friends nodded in agreement. His eyes falling to Twilight, making eye contact with her. Blushing lightly, the lavender mare glanced away. Thankfully Spike walked into the room with a nurse behind him, breaking the awkwardness as all eyes went to the new arrivals.

“Hello again Josh.” The nurse said as she walked over beside the bed, nudging past Fluttershy and Rarity. “Are you ready to take your leave?” Josh sighed, nodding. Glancing back towards the door, her horn lit up as a wheelchair slowly pushed it’s way into the room. Blinking, Josh raised a hand, shaking his head.

“Oh heck no. That is definitely not necessary, I can walk on my own dangit.” The nurse’s eyes narrowed as she prodded Josh’s chest with a hoof, causing him to wince.

“You’re going to sit in this wheelchair and you’re going to like it. Do I make myself clear?” Josh opened his mouth to argue, only to be interrupted as he found a yellow hoof to be pressed up against his lips. Looking over to the owner, Fluttershy gave him a stern look and shook her head.

“Please sit in the chair, it’s only until we can get you to bed at the library in Ponyville… If you don’t mind that is..” The yellow mare said, her voice dropping in volume as she spoke. Glancing between the rest, Josh finally pressed a hand to his head and sighed, relenting.

“Fine, fine.” He grumbled. Placing one hand on the bed, he slowly began to move himself towards the chair before finding himself encased in a lavender aura. Looking over, he blinked as he watched Twilight concentrate on levitating Josh into the air and carefully placing him into the chair. Twilight blinked and smiled at Josh as she admired her handiwork. Sighing once more, Josh shook his head. “You didn’t have to do that…” He muttered quietly.

“She was only trying to help, darling, Now that you’re situated though, let us depart from here and head back to Ponyville.” Rarity said as she walked past Josh and led the girls out of the room, leaving him alone with Twilight.

Walking over to him slowly, Twilight gently placed a hoof on Josh’s leg, looking up at him. “Lets get you home.” She said, offering him a smile.Josh nodded in agreement as he began feel himself being pushed forward in the chair. Looking back, he spotted Spike holding onto the wheelchair, pushing it forward. Twilight placed herself beside the chair, walking beside him.

The group walked in silence for a bit as they made their way out of the medical ward. As they made their way to the hall that connected the ward to the rest of the castle, Josh broke the silence. “Anyone here have a quill and some parchment?”

“What do you need that for?” Twilight asked, curiously.

“Just want to write a get well note to the pony that showed me around during my time here. It wasn’t long, but it was appreciated. She was one of the first to go against Drex as he showed up.” Nodding in understanding, Twilight levitated a quill and some paper from Josh’s bag that was slung over one of the handles on the back of the wheelchair.

Biting the inside of his cheek in thought, Josh stared at the paper before nodding to himself.

Dawn

I know you weren’t interested in making friends. But I would like to thank you for showing me around during my stay here at Canterlot Castle. I’m being moved to Ponyville for the rest of my own recovery. I do not know as to what extent your wounds from your fight with Drex are, but I hope your recovery is quick and easy.

Wishing you a speedy recovery
Josh

Josh frowned as he finished the letter and looked it over. “Not really that long is it..” He muttered, scratching the back of his head.

“Mind if I?” Twilight asked. Shrugging, Josh held the paper over to the unicorn. A lavender glow encased the paper as it was gently taken and held in front of her. After reading it a few times, Twilight smiled at Josh. “I think it’s fine. It’s short and to the point.” Nodding, he glanced around and noticed a nearby doctor heading back towards the ward.

“Sir, a moment if you don’t mind.” The doctor looked up from a clipboard he was carrying in his magic and glanced over at Josh. “Do you think you can deliver this to an Earth Pony by the name of Dawn that is here in the medical ward?” Josh asked as he held up the folded up piece of parchment. Levitating the letter out of his grasp, the unicorn looked it over and smiled, nodding to Josh.

“Of course, I was actually heading to her room next to check up on her. I’ll make sure that she gets this.” With that, he left, heading down the hallway that they had just come from. A moment later, Rainbow Dash flew in front of Josh, her hooves crossed as she raised an eyebrow at him.

“So, who is this ‘Dawn’ pony, huh?” She asked.

“Just a guard that was assigned to showing me around while I stayed here.” Rainbow continued to stare at Josh as she flew backwards.

“Oh lighten up, Dashie. Josh can make friends besides us you know.” Pinkie said, bouncing ahead of the group as they continued through the castle.

As they rounded a corner, they spotted Luna with two of her Night Guards following her. The lunar princess looked extremely tired, her mane was a mess and she looked as if she was trying to hold back a yawn. From his seat in the wheelchair, Josh raised a hand, waving towards the Princess. The six ponies and dragon who accompanied him, quickly dropped into a bow. Rolling his eyes, Josh smirked as Luna spotted them and began to approach them.

“My student, elements and young Spike.” Luna said in greeting, nodding to the group. Focusing her attention on Josh, she frowned. “It saddens me to see you in this state. I’m glad I am able to see you before you depart back to Ponyville. It will be a week or so before we will be able to converse again.” Josh folded his arms, nodding.

“That’s fine. That should give me time to get well enough to start using Magic again.” Blinking, Josh grimaced, a thought coming to him. “This whole a week in bed thing really sucks. My second week in Equestria and it’s going to be spent in bed just like the first…”

“Oh it’ll be fine!” Pinkie said, bouncing beside the wheelchair. “We’ll make sure to keep you lots of company, won’t we?” She said, looking around at her friends. A chorus of ‘mmhmms’ sang around them. “See? We’ll find things to do so you won't be all by yourself in that room.”

Smirking, Josh laughed lightly. “Thanks everyone, it’s appreciated.” Luna smiled softly, only to shut her eyes as she yawned loudly, her cheeks darkened in embarrassment. Turning his attention back to the Princess, Josh grinned. “Well it sounds like you’re tired, be sure to get a lot of rest, Luna. I’ll be looking forward to speaking with you again soon.” Smiling apologetically, Luna nodded.

“I bid you a safe trip and a quick recovery, my student.” Turning her attention to the rest of the group, Luna nodded before walking past the group and around a corner.

As they approached the castle doors which lead outside, Josh frowned. “Wait a minute… How far away from the train station is the castle?” Twilight’s ears perked up at the question.

“About fifteen minutes. Why do you ask?” Josh furrowed his eyebrows.

“Well, we’re going to be walking through town to get there then I would imagine.” Twilight nodded as the doors opened. Josh raised a hand up, wincing as the sunlight flooded his vision. “I really hope that the princesses were able to tell the ponies of Canterlot about me then. Because I’m sure after yesterday..” He was quickly cut off as he felt a hoof tap his shoulder.

“Now ah don’t mean tah be rude and interrupt ya. But if ponyville was any sign, I doubt you’re going to have trouble here with these canterlot types.” Applejack said, smirking at him. Running a hand through his hair, Josh sighed.

“Yeah, I suppose you’re right. I’m just needlessly worrying is all.”

“Hey, isn’t that your brother, Twilight?” Rainbow Dash asked, pointing to one area of the castle courtyard where a few guards were gathered, saddling a couple pegasi to a carriage. Beside it, Shining armor stood, talking with a guard. Upon seeing him, Twilight beamed, rushing over to her brother. Startled by the change of course, Spike turned the Wheelchair and started pushing the wheelchair towards the guards.

“BBBFF!” Twilight exclaimed as she approached Shining Armor. Turning as he heard her voice, her brother smiled.

“Twily! I was hoping I would be able to see you one more time before I headed back to the Crystal Empire. I would like to stay longer but I can’t leave Cadance by herself.” Twilight prodded his chest with one of her hooves, smirking.

“And I would be sorely disappointed in you if you did.” Twilight said, teasingly. Chuckling, Shining armor turned his attention to Josh, Spike and the rest of the girls. His stare hardened as he focused on the wheelchair bound Josh, only to soften moments later.

“You know..” He started quietly, sighing as he closed his eyes. After a moment of silence, he stared once more at Josh, his gaze softening. “I didn’t want to trust you, and I’m still having trouble believing that we fought side by side yesterday. My sister seems to see something in you, don’t let her down.” Approaching Josh, he held his hoof up. Smiling, Josh took it and gave it a firm shake.

“With a brother like you, I wouldn’t dare.” Josh said, chuckling quietly. Twilight watched the exchange between the two, confused
.

“Am I missing something?” She muttered to no one in particular.

“Just stallions being stallions my dear.” Rarity said, walking beside her. “Your brother is just looking out for your best interests is all.” Twilight frowned, huffing quietly.

“I can look after my own interests, thank you very much.” Rarity tittered, smiling at her friend.

“Let them do what they need to do, this is quite common.” Rarity leaned in a bit closer to Twilight. “Dear, how many stallions have you had for friends that your brother has met?” Twilight opened her mouth, raising a hoof, only to frown a moment later. “Exactly.” Twilight’s eyes widened as she turned and looked at her friend, her cheeks darkening. “Oh don’t give me that look dear. Anypony can see the way you look at Josh. He’s a nice colt, and from what it seems, he’s quite keen on you as well. I believe the only pony who doesn’t know is Josh himself. It’s quite funny, if you think about it.” At that, Rarity walked back over to the rest of the girls, Spike following her. Twilight stood lost in thought for a moment before a bout of laughter broke her out of her reverie as she looked over at Shining Armor and Josh.

“Yeah, I can tell that you’re going to be good around Twily.” Shining said, grinning. Josh grinned back.

“Back on my world I was the oldest with four younger siblings and a nephew… I know exactly what you mean man.” Josh said, causing Shining Armor to frown.

“I bet you can’t wait to get back to them…” Josh raised a hand, cutting him off.

“Unfortunately, that isn’t possible.” Sighing, Josh shook his head. “Coming here was a one way ticket from what I was told.”

“That is definitely unfortunate.” Shining turned and looked at the guards who were preparing his carriage, turning back to Josh, he nodded and once again held out his hoof. “It would seem like it’s time that I depart.” The stallion chuckled quietly. “Cadance is going to have a field day with this story.” Twilight took this moment to approach the two once more.

“I’ll miss you, Shiny.” Twilight said to her brother who turned to her as she approached.

“And I’ll miss you too, Twily. Stay out of trouble, okay? I love you little sis.” Shining Armor said as Twilight wrapped her hooves around his neck, hugging him.

“I love you too, BBBFF. Give my best to Cadance, okay?” Shining chuckled, nodding.

“Of course, little sis.” Backing up, Shining saluted Josh and Twilight before turning and hopping into the carriage. The two watched as Shining’s carriage flew out of sight as it headed north towards the Crystal Empire.

“He’s a good guy.” Josh said, breaking the silence. Twilight turned her attention to him, beaming happily.

“I’m glad you think so, Josh. I was honestly quite worried about you two meeting after what he said when we first got here back from the Empire.” Josh raised an eyebrow, questioningly.

“What did he say?” Josh asked curiously.

“Well…” Twilight said, “He mentioned that I shouldn’t trust you, and neither should the princesses.” Josh nodded, smirking.

“Yep, he’s definitely a good guy. I wouldn’t expect any less from a brother like him who not only wants the best for his sister but the country he serves for as well.” Josh continued to stare out in the direction that Shining had flown off in, lost in thought. Twilight tilted her head and watched Josh for a moment before smiling. After a moment longer, Josh looked back to Twilight who quickly looked away, her cheeks darkening. Reaching over, Josh ruffled her mane, causing her to giggle.

“Let's head home, hmm?” Twilight looked to him and nodded.

"Yes, lets." Twilight said. Using her magic to move the wheelchair, she began to push it back towards their friends.

The trip through Canterlot to the train station wasn’t nearly as bad as what Josh had imagined. Though it probably had something to do with the fact that he looked like a battered mess, sitting in the chair. The majority of ponies looked at him in confusion whereas the rest just went about their day normally.

“See, that wasn’t too bad, was it?” Pinkie said happily, bouncing alongside the group as they walked into the train station.

“Oh one of these days you just simply must let me give you a tour, Josh. Twilight grew up here, you know? Maybe she could introduce you to her parents the next time you’re both here?” Rarity said, looking at Twilight.

“M..My parents!?” Twilight said, blushing brightly. Josh looked between the two mares, confused.

“You make it sound like it’s a bad thing for me to meet them, Twilight.” Josh said, jokingly, causing Twilight to blush even further. Rarity smirked and walked towards the ticket counter with the group’s tickets.

“It must be different in your world Josh.” Rainbow Dash said, leaning in close. “But when a mare brings home a stallion to meet her parents, it typically means that they’re dating or at least getting to the point where they may start dating soon.” Josh’s eyes widened at the news. Rainbow waited a few moments before busting out in laughter. “Oh that was too easy!” Josh’s brow furrowed in confusion.

“What was too easy..?”

“What she means, Joshie, is that she was joking with you.” Pinkie said, grinning. “You know, like a prank.” Josh cleared his throat and chuckled.

“I see.” Trying to change the subject, Josh glanced over at Spike. “Hey Spike, you’ve been with Twilight all your life, right? I’m sure you’ve met her parents then. How are they?” Spike looked up.

“They’re nice.” Josh blinked at the young drake’s quick answer. Thankfully, Twilight came over and gently nudged Spike’s side.

“Oh you should tell Josh how they spoil you whenever we visit. How everytime you go out shopping with mom you come back with the largest gem you find.” Spike’s eyes widened as he cleared his throat.

“Oh look! Rarity’s bags arrived from the castle! I better go help.” Twilight shook her head, smirking as they watched Spike run off.

“If you don’t want me to, I don’t have to meet them, Twilight.” Josh said. Twilight turned her attention back to him, frowning.

“That’s not it at all. It’s just… Well…” She frowned, blushing a bit once more. “Rainbow was partially right. I mean it isn’t unheard of for mares to bring home stallions to meet their parents as just friends. But from what Rarity has told me, more often than not it means more.” Twilight said quietly, shifting her weight between her hooves, her cheeks continueing to darken as she spoke. Smiling, Josh reached over and ruffled Twilight’s mane, causing her to look up and return the smile.

“We’ll see, okay? One thing at a time. First thing on the agenda is to still get me back home. Aren’t you usually the one keeping lists?” Josh smirked as Twilight pouted.

“Um.. They’re boarding the train everypony.” Fluttershy said, slowly flying over.

“That’s our queue then.” Josh said as he began to push himself towards the train, only to be stopped as Twilight took the chair once again in her magic and pushed it towards and into the train. Minutes later after making their way into an empty car, everyone got settled and prepared for the trip.

Outskirts of Saddleton.

“Okay, once again. When Trixie makes her way to the center of the stage and begins to cast her spells, she wants you..” She said, motioning to Connor with a hoof. “To conjure up two wolves made out of flames.” Connor groaned as he sat on the steps that led into the wagon, watching as Trixie went out of her way to practice for the show. He ignored most of it, she only wanted him around for the flaming wolves at the beginning anyways.

“Faelan, is this the section of the Everfree you need to go to?” Connor asked, motioning towards the woods that the wagon was parked next to. The small wolf closed his eyes, raised his head and sniffed the air. After a moment, he shook his head, sighing. “Yeah… Didn’t think so. I don’t know how much longer we will be near this large expanse of forest, so I hope we find it soon.” Faelan nodded in agreement.

“Are you fools even listening to Trixie?” Light erupted right in front of Connor and Faelan as the Showmare watched them, smirking. As they turned their attention back to her, she held her head up high. “Much better! Now, once again from the top!” Connor groaned once more, placing one of his hands over his face.

“I’m getting too old for this shit…” Moments later, Connor was thrown into the dirt as something flew into him.

“Oops! My bad!” A bubbly voice said as Connor felt a weight slowly lift itself off of him. Eyes wide, Connor slowly got up and looked for the source of the voice as he brushed himself off. “Sorry mister! I didn’t mean to run into you!” A grey wall-eyed pegasus with a mail hat and bag said apologetically. “I just have so much to deliver today! And I was going way too fast for a safe landing.” Connor slowly nodded as he tried to piece together what just happened.

“Trixie would like to know what’s going on here? Connor! Trixie demands that you tell her who this mare is.” She said, stomping a hoof on the ground. Rolling his eyes, he waved a hand towards the pegasus.

“Just a mailmare, Trixie.” Straightening up, he raised an eyebrow at the mare and held a hand out. “I’d like to assume you have mail for us then?” The mailmare’s eyes widened as she nodded.

“Oh! Yes! Thats right! Urgent news from Canterlot, everypony gets a copy.” Connor blinked and watched as the mare pulled a rolled up newspaper out of her bag and handed it to him. Quickly muttering a ‘thank you’ he walked over to the steps he was seated on moments before when he heard someone clear their throat. Looking up, he met eye contact with the mailmare.

“Oh…” Reaching into his robes, he pulled out a couple of bits and handed them to her before quickly turning his attention back to the paper, completely drowning everyone out as he read.

Canterlot to Ponyville Train

“Oh my, so that’s what happened at the front gates… I can’t believe he did that!” Rarity said a bit loudly, followed by a wave of ‘sshhh’ noises from the rest of her friends. Josh yawned and opened his eyes as he looked across the cabin to where the girls were gathered, reading something

“Yeah, that’s pretty awesome, the guards say here that he came down with a wave of vengeance, coat billowing out behind him as he shot bolts of lighting at the enemy!” Rainbow Dash said even louder. At hearing what she said, Josh’s eyes widened.

“Does it say how I landed on my face after jumping out the window?” Josh said a bit loudly, causing the girls to gasp and turn their attention from what they were reading to him him. Josh smirked. “Leave it up to the press to over exaggerate things.” He chuckled and yawned once more as Fluttershy slowly approached him.

“Um.. S..Sorry for waking you from your nap. We didn’t mean to be so loud…” She said in a voice so quiet that Josh had to strain to hear her. Waving a hand, Josh smiled.

“Nah, don’t worry about it. I’m sure we must be almost to Ponyville anyway. I needed to get up.” Raising his arms into the air, he stretched, groaning. “Yeah, I’m definitely looking forward to getting back to Ponyville and a nice bed.” Looking across the room, Twilight and the rest of their friends were still reading over the newspaper. “They really got that out fast, how did they get the story so quickly?”

“Well, um.. I’m sure some guards that were uninjured were interviewed last night. We had a few journalists come knocking on our door to get our side of the story, but the only ones who told their stories were Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash.“ Josh nodded, smiling at Fluttershy.

“How are you holding up, Fluttershy?” Josh asked. Fluttershy turned her attention towards the floor. “I know you girls have been through alot from what I’ve been told, but it doesn’t sound like any of it has been this bad.” Fluttershy sniffled, nodding. “Hey, if you want to talk about it, feel free to come to me at any time okay?”

“Oh… Well thank you. But I’m fine, really.” She said quietly, smiling behind her mane.

“Oh! Isn’t this exciting, Josh!?” Pinkie said, suddenly appearing beside them. “You’ll be able to go out in public and everypony will know that you’re a hero!” Josh frowned, shaking his head.

“What I did was more stupid than heroic.” Josh muttered dryly, glancing towards the paper that Twilight was still scrutinizing over.

“You may not have to worry about other ponies recognizing you anyway, Josh. The description of you in here is so overly exaggerated. There isn’t even a picture of you in here.” Twilight said, looking up with a smile.

“Why would you not want credit for assisting in Canterlot’s defense, darling?” Rarity asked curiously.

“Yeah! That makes no sense.” Rainbow Dash said, crossing her hooves in front of her chest.

“I think it makes perfect sense…” Fluttershy whispered loud enough for Josh to hear. Josh shook his head and glanced out the train car’s window.

“I just don’t want to generate any form of popularity is all. That would just lead to reporters and the like knocking at our doors.” Rainbow Dash and Pinkie’s eyes widened before they glanced at each other. Rainbow cleared her throat and tapped her hooves together causing Josh to look at her with a raised eyebrow.

“Well about that…” She started. Josh’s eyes narrowed. “I may possibly of let it slip where you live in Ponyville…” Twilight’s fur seemed to stand on end as she slowly turned her gaze from the paper to Rainbow.

“You didn’t…” Clearing her throat once more, Rainbow nodded. Groaning, Twilight laid down on the seat. “Just because you would like the attention, doesn’t mean everypony else would.” Twilight muttered. “Now the Library is going to be packed with newsponies!”

“I could always barricade the door when we get home.” Spike offered. Twilight looked at Spike, as if considering the idea for a moment.

“But what if somepony needs to borrow a book dear. You can’t just barricade the Library. The best solution would be to let the newsponies get their story from the source and then let them be on their way. No matter how you look at it, there isn’t a way to get out of this.” Rarity said, receiving a glance from Applejack.

“Well ah could always let yah stay at the farm until all of this blows over. You ponies can say that he went elsewhere. You wouldn’t be lying because he would be elsewhere, at mah farm.” Applejack suggested proudly, holding a hoof to her chest. Josh looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

“Are you sure you’re up for that Applejack? I can just face the music.. Probably would be for the best, I mean I’ll eventually have to tell them my side anyway.” Josh said, frowning, staring down at his bandage wrapped hands.

“Well that’s mighty responsible of yah, Josh. If that’s what you want to do, ah can respect that.” Applejack said, smiling.

A sudden ringing seemed to fill the traincar. Blinking, Josh looked towards Rarity. “It would seem like I have a call, can you get my phone out of my coat…” Before Josh could continue, a lavender light encased Josh’s coat and pulled the phone out of it. Looking towards Twilight, his eyes widened. “What are you doing, Twilight?”

“There is only one pon-Person.” Twilight said, catching herself. “Who can reach you at this device, and that is Connor. Why is he calling you?” She asked, looking towards Josh with a serious expression.

“Well… You see…” Josh began, clearing his throat.

“Who the hay is Connor, and somepony make that confangled device quiet down.” Applejack said, pulling her hat over her ears to drown out the ringing sound that was coming from Josh’s phone.Swooping over, Rainbow grabbed the phone and took it to Josh, receiving an angry look from Twilight in the process. Without even looking at the phone, Josh pressed the power button on the phone, hanging it up.

Sighing, Josh looked between everypony once before scratching the back of his head in thought. “Well… So heres what is going on.” Josh said quietly as he began to relay to his friends what Connor told him the previous day.

“So this Connor guy is really on our side then?” Rainbow Dash asked, looking unsure.

“Well that is what Joshie said, Dashie.” Pinkie said, bouncing beside Rainbow. Twilight and Applejack looked between each other, frowning.

“Well ah dunno Josh. Ya shouldn’t be too quick to trust him ah think.” Applejack said. Nodding in agreement, Twilight walked over to Josh and sat down beside him.

“Applejack is right, I think it’s a bit soon to trust him. He could be lying to you to get you back on his side… Whatever side that is.” Yawning, Twilight rested her head on the cushions of the seat she was sitting on. Fluttershy soon followed her, yawning and laying down on the seat as well.

“Hey, hey Joshie.” Pinkie said, bouncing over once more. Looking over to her, she beamed happily, holding the guitar she let him use in Ponyville. “You should sing us a song!” Blinking, Josh stared at the guitar and then looked at his hands. Clenching them into fists, most of the pain he felt earlier in the morning was gone.

“I’m sure I can pump out one song if you ponies are up for it.” As they all nodded, Josh chuckled to himself and started to strum on the guitar. The train entered a tunnel just as Josh began to sing, leaving them all in blackness with just the sound of music.

Hey, Porter, Hey Porter!
Would you tell me the time?
How much longer will it be
'Til we cross that Canterlot Ponyville Line?
At daylight will you tell that engineer to slow it down;
Or better still, just stop the train
'Cause I want to look around.

Out of nowhere, Applejack began strumming on a banjo. The sound of music filled the train car as the ponies in it began to stomp their hooves with the beat.

Hey, Porter! Hey Porter!
What time did you say?
How much longer will it be
'Till I can see the light of day?
When we hit Ghastly Gorge will you tell that engineer to ring his bell;
And ask everybody that ain’t asleep to stand right up and yell.

As the train exited the tunnel, the music began to pick up in beat, getting louder as Pinkie began to sing along, somehow knowing the song’s lyrics. Using her magic, Twilight cracked one of the windows open, the view of the quickly approaching town of Ponyville not too far away.

Hey, Porter! Hey Porter!
It's getting light outside.
This old train is puffin' smoke and I have to strain my eyes.
But ask that engineer if he will blow his whistle please,
'Cause I smell rain on Everfree leaves,
And I feel that forest breeze.

Hey, Porter! Hey, Porter!
Please get my bags for me,
I need nobody to tell me now that we're where we need to be..
Go tell that engineer to make that lonesome whistle scream.
We're not so far from home so take it easy on the steam.

Hey Porter! Hey Porter!
Please open up the door.
When they stop this train I'm gonna get off first
'Cause I can't wait no more.
Tell that engineer I say, "Thanks a lot. I didn't mind the fare.
I'm gonna set my feet on small town soil
And breathe that small town air."

The train pulled into Ponyville Station as the song died down. Josh handed the guitar back to Pinkie who was smiling happily. Placing the guitar into her mane Pinkie bounced over to Applejack and did the same with the banjo.

“There really needs to be an explanation for that…” Josh whispered quietly to himself. Pinkie turned and smirked at him.

“Oh really, there is one Joshie. And when you figure it out, I’ll be sure to give you a cupcake!” Pinkie then placed a hoof over her mouth. “Oops! Spoilers!” Josh opened his mouth for a moment, only to close it as he saw Rainbow Dash shake her head. Suddenly from the intercom above the door, the voice of the conductor began to broadcast loudly.

“Okay everypony! Time to get off, Single File please, and if you’re staying for the trip to Dodge Junction make sure to stay seated and out of the way so that the ponies who are getting off here won't have any trouble.”

“Thats our stop, lets go home everypony.” Twilight said as she waited for her friends to leave first. Once the last pony had left the room, she took Josh’s wheelchair in her magic and guided it out and off of the train. Stretching his arms skyward, he took a deep breath.

“I’ve only been here for two weeks, yet this place feels like home…” He muttered more to himself than anything. Upon hearing him, Twilight smiled and pushed the wheelchair towards their friends.

“Well dears, I’ll be going home now. I have to check up on Sweetiebelle and get Josh’s coat fixed up. I’ll bring it over tomorrow, Twilight.” Walking over to Josh, she cast a quick glance between him and Twilight, smiling before patting his knee with a hoof. A moment later she turned and walked into town. “Come along Spike, would you be a dear and help me get my luggage home?”

“But of course, Lady Rarity! It would be my honor.” Spike quickly bowed to the white unicorn before gathering up her luggage and following her.

“Yeah I probably should get going too, the weather team will probably wonder why I wasn’t helping this morning and last night.” Rainbow said, hovering in the air and waving before flying off.

“I have to get home as well.” Fluttershy said quietly. “I really must check up on all of my critter friends and see if they’re doing okay with Angel in charge.” With that, Fluttershy turned and began walking towards her cottage.

“Ah’m a head on home mahself as well. Them apples ain’t goin to pick themselves you know.” Applejack said. “Not to mention, ah need to let Granny and Big Mac know I’m back so they don’t have to sell the apples in town for me.” Pinkie Pie, Twilight and Josh waved to Applejack as she left, heading off to her farm in the distance.

Twilight and Josh turned their attention towards Pinkie and looked at her for a moment. “Oh! I have nowhere to go currently so I thought I would stick it out with you! I already told the cakes when we left that I wouldn’t be back for a couple of days, so there is no rush.” Pinkie said happily.

“Oh, okay then.” Twilight said, nodding to Pinkie. “You’re free to join Josh and I, we’re just going to head… Home…” Twilight blinked as she stared in the direction of the Library, only to see a group of ponies gathered around the entrance. “Oh you’ve got to be kidding me!” Twilight said, pointing a hoof at the group.

“Nope! I didn’t hear any jokes!” Pinkie said, bouncing up and down. “Oh! Do you think they’re telling jokes!?” Pinkie shouted, grinning as she quickly bounced over to the crowd. As the bouncing pink pony approached the group they turned and caught sight of Josh and Twilight in the distance.

“Well here it goes…” Josh muttered in annoyance as he watched the newsponies quickly approach them, holding mics, notepads and cameras.

“Hello! I’m Doc Write from Canterlot news seven! And I’d like to hear your story on what happened at the castle yesterday!”

“I’m Paperweight! Can you tell us what kind of creature you are!?”

After the fifth pony had introduced themselves, Josh’s eye began to twitch, once the sixth began to speak, he had finally had enough. “Can everyone just shut up for five seconds!” He yelled loudly, placing a hand on his chest. Twilight and Pinkie’s eyes widened as they looked at Josh, having not heard him yell before. “Come back a week from now, let the ponies that received the news today settle on what you’ve given them, and then feed them more news you get from the interview.” Everypony was silent for a few seconds before they began to look between each other. Josh grinned as he thought of something. “Oh! And to make this interesting.” Each of the ponies turned to look back at him. “I will only allow ONE pony to interview me. Whoever finds me a week from now, will receive the interview. Everypony else will be out of luck.” The group looked between each other as an air of competition seemed to radiate from the newsponies.

“Okay! You’re all dismissed. I’ll see one of you in a week.” Waving his hands, the group parted for them as Twilight began to push the chair once more towards the Library.

“Wowie wow wow! What was that, Josh!?” Pinkie asked, suddenly really close to his face.

“Yes, I’d like to know as well.” Twilight said, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Hey, it worked didn’t it? I don’t like large groups, but I wouldn’t mind telling one newspony my story. The doctors said I should be right as rain in a week, and I should also be on my feet in a couple of days. My ribs are healed it’s just that they’re a bit bruised right now. In a week I’ll go somewhere and wait for somepony to come and find me.”

“Oh! Like hide and seek!” Pinkie said, grinning. “Can I play too!?” Josh laughed lightly, ruffling Pinkie’s mane.

“You can hide with me okay? And we’ll see which pony can get to me first.” Josh said, smirking. Pinkie giggled happily as the three entered the Library. “Hey Twilight, can you just push me over to the couch? I’ll just lay on it for a bit before heading upstairs tonight.”

“You sure Josh? I can just levitate you up to the guest room if you want.” Twilight said, pushing the chair towards the couch. Josh nodded, frowning.

“Yeah, I spent all of last week in that room, I’d rather not do the same this week. And it’s not like I’m in nearly as much pain as I was in then either.” Twilight shook her head and levitated Josh’s bags off of the wheelchair and set them on the ground by the couch.

“Well make sure you’re getting plenty of rest either way.” Twilight said as her horn flared up to prepare to move Josh as well, Josh held up a hand, interrupting her. “Is something wrong?” She asked, confused.

“No, nothing’s wrong.” Josh placed his hands on the arms of the chair and pushed himself up, grunting in the process. “I just want to do things myself sometimes… I’m not an invalid.” Twilight frowned, shaking her head as she watched Josh in all his stubbornness get out of the chair and onto the couch. “See?” He said after sliding out of the chair, and walking to the couch, holding a hand to his chest. “Just bruised ribs, it’s not as if I can’t walk. The break that was there is already healed.” Moments later, Pinkie bounced onto the couch beside Josh and stretched across it.

“I’m going to prepare some tea then.” Twilight said. After watching them for a moment, she turned and walked into the kitchen.

“So, Joshie.” Pinkie started, prodding his shoulder with a hoof. Looking over to her, he raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah?”

“I owe you some parties mister!” Pinkie said, a pout covering her face. Josh blinked before holding back a laugh.

“That’s absolutely unnecessary, Pinkie.” Josh said, only to hear Pinkie gasp loudly a moment later.

“Parties unnecessary!?” She nearly yelled, almost causing Josh to fall off of the couch. “They’re some of the funnest things ever!”

“As much as I agree that they are fun, I don’t think there is time for one in the near future. Once I recover from this, I have plans to get training so I actually stand a chance against the scions or any other trouble I may come across.” Pinkie frowned for a moment, only to perk up a second later.

“Oh! When you train, can I watch!? I bet that would be loads of fun!”

"Now Pinkie, didn’t you tell Applejack that you’d help her with her barn raising when we were at the castle last night?”

“Oh! Right!” Pinkie said, placing a hoof to her chin in thought. “Now if only there was someway for me to be in two places at once… That way I can experience both sets of fun at the same time!” After a moment of contemplation, Pinkie looked up at the ceiling before shrugging. “I’m sure I’ll figure something out when I need to.” Bouncing off of the couch she hopped towards the door. “I better go and let the cakes know that I’m back. I’ll see you ponies later! La la la~” A moment later, Pinkie was out of the library, shutting the door behind her. Chuckling to himself, Josh shook his head as he accepted a cup of tea from Twilight.

“Two places at once. Is that even possible with magic?” Twilight blinked for a moment before nodding.

“I’m sure it is, it would just take a really large amount of magic to cast a spell of that level.” Josh shrugged, taking a sip from his cup, sighing as a feeling of warmth spread through him. Reaching a hand over the arm of the couch, he grabbed his bag and pulled it onto his lap. Reaching inside of it, he pulled out some diagrams and set them on the table in front of the couch. Twilight looked at them curiously, each page seemed to depict a different piece to this ‘airship’ that Josh was so adamant about creating in the future.

“When we were in Canterlot, I noticed the airship parked in some sort of Skydock when I was in my room.” Twilight nodded as Josh pushed forward one specific sheet that detailed glowing gems along the balloon part of the ship. “Why would they put gems along this? And for that matter why are they glowing? Is there some sort of magic running through them? Can gems store magic?” Josh looked up from the paper to Twilight, who was in turn looking at the paper as well.

“Yes, gems can store magic, the amount of magic that can be stored is dependant on the gem. Did you see what color these were?” Josh shook his head.

“Unfortunately, no. I only saw them to begin with because it was dark outside when I looked and there were shining spots on the balloon. It wasn’t until the yesterday, when I asked a guard about it, that he told me that they were gems.” Twilight nodded, continuing to stare at the paper.

“There had always been airships above canterlot like this, with balloons.” Twilight said as she pulled the page with the gems closer to herself. “These are definitely a new addition.” Her eyes seemed to shine as a smile began to form on her face. “Oooh! This is exciting! I’ll have to write a letter to my parents and see if they can send me any information about what the airship engineers are doing with the gems.” Josh raised an eyebrow as Twilight began to ramble, chuckling quietly to himself.

“Or should I send a letter to Celestia?” She continued, holding the page in front of her with her magic now as she began to pace. “No, that wouldn’t do, she has other things to worry about. It has to be my parents, they’ll be able to find information.” Twilight suddenly stopped and shot a glance towards the kitchen as an idea began to form in her head. “I wonder…” She muttered quietly as she sat the page down and walked into the kitchen. Shaking his head, Josh leaned back on the couch and pulled out his phone, running a thumb over the crack on the screen, frowning.

“I’m sure it’s some simple weather spell to help the airships in some way, Twilight.” Josh called from the couch while staring at the phone. “I mean, I’m sure those things get struck with lightning and have to deal with the wear and tear of weather at all times. Who knows, maybe they shield the balloon or something when they’re hit.” After another moment of silence, Josh looked up from his phone towards the kitchen. “Twilight? I thought you said you already knew that gems could store magic, what makes this one so special that you must know?” Slowly peeking her head out of the kitchen, Twilight made her way over to the table and set down the paper with Josh’s drawing on it.

“Well, I went ahead and sent the letter to my parents, like I said I would. The reason though, as to why I’m so curious, is that I grew up in Canterlot, as you know, and held a fascination for the flying ships and what made them work. Well the gems on this, are definitely new, so I would really like to know why they’re there.” Twilight moved over and sat on the couch beside Josh, sipping from her tea once more.

“Well, what other types of magic can gems hold?” Josh asked curiously.

“All sorts. Some of the unicorn guards use charged gems in combat to store magic to give themselves a refill when they’re getting low. Though they have to be careful, because if they get jostled when they have magic stored in them, whatever was stored will get shot out of the gem. When the scientists in Canterlot were first testing it, there were a few issues with ponies getting hurt because somepony would accidently drop one.” Twilight continued to talk, having gone into lecture mode, but Josh already had an idea in mind and was too focused to really pay attention anyway.

Taking a sheet of paper and a quill, Josh began to sketch out a design for a tool that could harness the damaging capabilities of a gem that has had magic stored within it and then jostled. He started out by drawing the gem in question, for what he had planned, it couldn’t be too large or it wouldn’t fit his idea. Suddenly another thought struck him and he looked over to Twilight who had continued to speak without noticing that Josh wasn’t paying attention. Clearing his throat to interrupt her, she paused and tilted her head.

“You had a question?” Twilight asked.

“Well, sort of.” Josh began, setting down the quill and paper before running a hand through his hair in thought. “Is there a limit to how much magic can be stored in a gem?”

“Of course!” Twilight said, happy to have someone to speak with about such a subject. “There are varying levels of magical energy that a gem can hold. It is really all based on the type of gem and the size of the gem in question.” Suddenly the front door slammed shut, causing both Josh and Twilight to look towards it.

“I was wondering when you two would notice that I was back.” Spike said. “It’s like you two were in your own little world. Can’t believe the discussion you’re having is about gems too. Why waste them with magic when they’re so…” Spike threw one into his mouth that he happened to be carrying. “Delicious.” Twilight rolled her eyes before turning back to Josh.

“So each stone, has it’s own elemental property.” Josh muttered, looking down at his hands, clenching them into fists for a moment and wincing. Moments later, Twilight placed her hoof on his hands. Looking up at her, he was met with a smile.

“Don’t worry too much about it now, when your can start using your magic again in a week’s time, I’ll go ahead and show you all there is to know about gems and magic properties of gems if you’re really that interested in it.”

“That would be appreciated.” Taking the paper and quill once more, he dipped it in ink and continued to draw the device around the gem. First the barrel, then a cylinder around the gem itself, until he finally had a picture of a revolver drawn out. As he finished drawing and set the quill down, Twilight took the paper in her magic and looked at the device.

“And what is this supposed to do?” Twilight asked. Josh chewed on the inside of his cheek for a moment, contemplating whether or not he should tell her. After a moment of contemplation and staring at the paper, Twilight prodded his leg. “Well?”

“This, Twilight. Is a revolver that has been modified to accommodate gemstones. Now if magic placed in gems cause the gems to become… What’s the word I’m looking for.”

“Unstable?” Twilight offered.

“Yeah, unstable.” Josh said, continuing. “If the magic causes them to become unstable, then when they’re jostled or hit they will expel the magic that has been built up inside them right?” Twilight nodded. “What this does, you place a gem in the cylinder, pull back on this part here, also known as the hammer, which preps the revolver to be fired. When this trigger is pulled.” Josh pointed to the trigger. “The hammer would snap back and hit the gem that is in the cylinder, causing the gem to release whatever magic has been stored down the barrel to it’s target.” The room went dead silent as Twilight stared at the drawing.

“Did you just… Weaponize magic infused gems..?” Twilight said, her voice barely above a whisper. Closing her eyes, she shook her head. “Is this really what you would use it for?” Josh opened his mouth to say something only to watch as Twilight shook her head. “I am just shocked that you would come up with something like this, only moments after learning about magically infused gems.” Josh sighed and scratched the back of his head in thought.

“I honestly am just trying to think of any way we can create an advantage over the Scions, Twilight. I wouldn’t ever use it to harm anypony, you should know that by now.” Twilight shut her eyes and took a deep breath.

“I believe you, Josh. It’s just shocking that you could think of something like this so quickly upon hearing about how the gems work.” Twilight stared at the page for a moment, lost in thought. “Though, I do agree that we could use whatever we can get our hooves on to beat the scions, since peace is definitely not going to be possible with them it would seem.” Twilight sighed, placing a hoof on her forehead, under her horn. After a moment, she looked over to Josh with a small smile. “As I told my brother.” She said quietly. “I trust you, Josh, and I trust that you wouldn’t do anything to danger anypony.”

“Of course he wouldn’t.” Spike said, carrying a bowl of ice cream before sitting down on the couch beside Josh and Twilight. “He’s too friendly to do anything harmful to us.” Josh looked over at the small dragon with a raised eyebrow. Twilight turned her attention to Spike as well, her eyes widening upon seeing the bowl of ice cream.

“Why do you have that!? It’s almost dinner time! You’re going to spoil your supper.” Josh chuckled quietly to himself.

“So, what is for dinner, by the way?” Josh asked, causing Twilight to turn to him, blinking. She raised a hoof up, only to frown a moment later and put it down and turning back to Spike.

“What do we have?” Spike shrugged and nommed on another spoonful of ice cream.

“I don’t know, nor do I care. Especially with this baby.” Spike said, rubbing the bowl of ice cream lovingly. Twilight’s eyes narrowed as she sighed.

“If you get a bellyache, do not come crying to me about it.” Josh chuckled lightly as he watched the two.

“I guess we could always order some Pizza…” Twilight said, causing Josh’s eyes to widen as he stared at her.

“You ponies… Have Pizza…?” He asked, unblinking.

“Er… Yeah.” Spike said. “It’s okay I guess. Not really something I like too much personally.” Josh slowly turned his stare from Twilight to Spike as he began to relax and calm down.
“Spike… Pizza is one of my favorite foods…” The small dragon looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “To think that it even exists here in Equestria…”

“Okay, okay. We’ll go and get a pizza.” Twilight said, giggling softly. “Do you want to come too, Spike?”

“Nah, I’ll stay here and relax, the last couple of days have been killer on my feet.” Twilight shrugged and then turned to Josh.

“Do you want anything specific on it?” She asked curiously. Josh sat in thought for a moment.

“Cheese and pineapples?” Twilight and Spike both looked at him, confused.

“You put pineapples on your pizza..? Thats like adding salt to ice cream, the two just… They just don’t mix. Aren’t pineapples too sweet?” Twilight asked. Spike frowned for a moment before shrugging.

“I’ll try it.” He said, causing Twilight to groan.

“You’ll only try it because it sounds even a little sweet.” Spike shrugged and got off of the couch, taking his now empty bowl into the kitchen. Twilight groaned, shaking her head. “I’ll be back shortly then, if you need anything, ask Spike.” Josh rolled his eyes, nodding. Moments later, Twilight walked out of the library.

Dark Monastery: Inner sanctum.

“It is… Unfortunate.” The master said, growling. “That you were unable to retrieve the item I sent you after, you were extremely fortunate that the ponies had you transported to Canterlot, Darcy. I would not of had Drex assist you if I didn’t already send him to Canterlot to retrieve Stelma.”

“I understand, Master.” Darcy said quietly, bowing. “I sorely underestimated the magical capabilities of the one known as Twilight Sparkle. It will not happen again.” Silence filled the room for a moment.

“As for you, Stelma. If it wasn’t for the trouble that Drex went through to bring you back, I would kill you on the spot.” The pony crouched low to the ground in fear. A dark laugh echoed through the room. “But I have something a little… Nicer… Planned for you, no I will not give you the form you had previously, enjoy being on all fours, because you’re going to stay that way for the rest of your days.” Stelma whimpered at this information, she had hoped that upon returning to the Sanctum, that the master would restore her body to it’s original shape.

“Drex, you did everything I sent you out to do by returning Stelma. But not only did you return her, you brought Darcy back as well. I am most pleased with your accomplishments… Though it is regrettable that you lost the amulet that I gave you, you will have to be wary of magic users now, since I doubt your orcish hide can prevent spells from harming you.” Drex grunted in reply, getting a chuckle out of the Master. “You three are dismissed. When you leave, let Aqua and Slough know that I want to speak with them.” The violet orb in the center darkened as the large doors into the Inner Sanctum opened.

“The master wants to speak with you two.” Stelma said as the three passed the two elementals and made their way down to their rooms. Looking between each other, Aqua and Slough grinned as they walked into the Inner Sanctum.

“Are the items I asked for ready..?” The master asked quietly as soon as the doors were shut.

“Yes, master.” Aqua said, stepping forward. “And it’s ready to be administered to the other scions once you’re ready for it. Though the time it needs to take effect is going to be roughly about a month or so. Do we have the time?”

“Plenty. Another month is nothing compared to the thousand year wait we’ve had to go through to get to this point. I assure you, Equestria will be another world extinct of it’s denizens once I am through with it.”

“And what of the elf that resides there now? The one that Connor was training?” Aqua asked.

“Give him the same offer I gave you and the other scions. If he accepts, splendid. If not, kill him immediately.”

“But of course, Master.” Aqua said before backing up a step. “And what of the scions that reside here? Darcy has laid eyes on this other elf, I’m sure she may have questions about why there is another of her kind there.” The master growled in annoyance at Darcy being brought up.

“After the dose is administered to her, there won’t be enough of her left to care about what race that man is. Her only goal will be to make sure he dies.”

“Understood.” Aqua said, bowing low towards a glowing crystal orb in the middle of the room. “Is there anything else that you require of us, Master?”

“Not as of yet, but I will soon. Be sure to add the elixir to Darcy, Stelma and Drex’s meals. You’re both dismissed.” At that, the orb’s glow dimmed and vanished, leaving Slough and Aqua in darkness. As one the two elementals bowed low once again.

“By your will, Master.” They said as one before turning and leaving the room.

Ponyville: Golden Oaks Library

Josh patiently waited, sitting in bed while listening for the sounds of his housemates to fall asleep. Once Spike’s snoring filled the Library, he carefully got out of bed, grabbed his phone and headed downstairs. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, he winced, placing a hand to his chest.

“I really need to pick my battles better.” He said to himself, chuckling quietly under his breath. Unlocking the front door, he headed outside, wrapping his arms around himself. “Dang it’s chilly… Makes me miss my coat already. I’ll have to ask Rarity if she can make me any new clothes too, the two sets I have aren’t cutting it.” Walking around the tree, he sat down on the grass and leaned his back up against it.

Closing his eyes, he placed a hand to his chest, gently rubbing his bruise through the bandages. After a moment, he raised his phone up and powered it on. ‘One Missed Call’ lit up the main screen. Contemplating his decision, he shook his head and pressed ‘redial’. The phone rang twice before being picked up on the other end.

“Hello!?” Connor said loudly, it sounded like there was a lot of background noise as Connor yelled into the phone. Holding the device away from his head, Josh winced.

“Hey Connor, is now a good time?”

“Josh, my boy! Ah yes yes, just let me. Oh not now Faelan, this is important. One sec Josh.” The line suddenly went silent. Blinking, Josh looked at the phone’s display, confused. Frowning at seeing the phone state that he was still in a call, he put it back up to his ear.

“Must of placed me on hold…” He muttered dryly. Closing his eyes, Josh held the phone to his ear as he leaned back against the tree, his free hand picking at the grass beside him. A few minutes passed as Josh waited. As he was about to hang up the phone, the sound of being taken off of hold greeted him.

“About time.” Josh said, only to hear Connor sigh.

“Yeah yeah, busy night.” Connor muttered.

“Sounds like some sort of party.” Josh said, smirking.

“If only, I could use a few drinks after this one.” Connor went quiet for a moment before suddenly shouting. “You were in the paper! A hero they say!” Josh scoffed, placing his free hand to his forehead.

“As I told my friends, they didn’t include the part where I fell on my face shortly after jumping out a window a few stories high.” Connor laughed, causing Josh to roll his eyes.

“It’s good to hear you’re okay. I honestly didn’t expect you to come out alive after your run in with Drex. He must of went easy on you, or you learned that magic wouldn’t affect him and hightailed it.” Josh smirked, shaking his head.

“No, the captain of the guard, Prince Shining Armor assisted me and we took him on. Apparently the necklace that Drex was wearing was enchanted to hide his true form as well as prevent him from being harmed by magic.” Connor whistled in amazement.

“Were able to figure that one out, huh? Well you’re not as dense as I thought ya were, boy-o.” Facepalming, Josh opened his mouth to reply, only to shut it as Connor continued. “You must of been giving Drex hell then if you were able to remove his necklace, normally he’s quick enough to keep people back by at least ten feet with that overgrown treechopper that he deems a weapon.”

“I’d like to believe we gave him hell, caught him off guard a few times, thats how we were able to get the necklace.” The two sat in silence for a moment before Connor spoke up.

“Do you still have the necklace..?” Josh went to reply, only to frown.

“You know, I’m not sure what happened to it, I’ll have to ask Twilight tomorrow.” Josh said quietly.

“Ah, the purple unicorn huh? Yes, she’s going to do great things that one.” Connor said. The line went silent once more for another minute. “Josh, I’ll be stopping by Ponyville in about two weeks, I would like to meet you when I get there. There are some things that can only be discussed in person. I honestly have no idea if anyone is able to track these calls. In anycase, I should be heading off boy-o.”

“Connor!? Are you still on that device of yours? Trixie demands that you assist her with packing up! Even Faelan is doing his job.” Trixie shouted in the background.

“Ugh… Women..” Connor groaned, eliciting a chuckle from Josh. “I’ll speak to you again when I’m in town.”

“Sounds good, Connor. Take it easy.”

“Yep, you too.” The line went silent as Josh pulled the phone away from his ear and pressed the power button, ending the call and turning the phone off. Slowly standing to his feet, Josh pocketed his phone and walked quietly back into the Library. After locking the door behind him, he walked up the flight of stairs and slowly peaked into Twilight’s room. Upon making sure that she and Spike were still sleeping, he made his way into his room for the night.

Author's Notes:

Well, here it is... It isn't that bonus chapter I promised after Halloween, but you guys needed a chapter and I was feeling bad that I hadn't put out one for quite some time. The bonus chapter is about 4k words currently, and I am currently 3k words into the chapter after this current one. So expect another chapter within the next couple of weeks (Hopefully!) Until then, please enjoy, tell me your opinion in the comments, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask!

-Kyllier

(P.S. This isn't fully edited, mah editor is still working on it, but I wanted to put it out asap >.> think like the pre-upload before the HD version if ya will...)