Ponyville: Golden Oaks Library

As Josh slowly woke up the following morning, he stretched and sat up in bed. “What a night...” He quietly mumbled to himself while reaching across to the bedside table. Picking up his phone, he sleepily rubbed his eyes with one hand while turning the phone on. As soon as the on-screen display appeared, his eyes widened. “Oh come on, Six? Seriously? You’d think I’d be used to waking up early by now...” Muttering a curse under his breath, he slowly got out of bed and made his way out of the guest room and across the hall to the bathroom.

By the time Josh exited the bathroom and made his way downstairs, Twilight had already woken up and made her way to the study. “Oh! Good morning Josh, did you sleep well?” Josh looked over to her and yawned, running a hand through his hair.

“Just peachy, Twilight...” Twilight smiled, turning her attention to a book that she had levitated in front of her, quickly flipping through the pages.

“Good! I went ahead and put a pot of tea on the stove. I noticed that you’ve been drinking coffee since you arrived here, I don’t mind really, but I usually save that for my late night study sessions.”

“I see, I’ll try to go easy on the coffee then.” Josh walked into the kitchen and poured Twilight and himself a couple mugs of the hot tea. As he brought them into the front room, he sat one down on a table beside the mare. “Careful, it’s still hot.” Twilight continued to skim through the book that she was reading before groaning and setting it aside. “Is everything okay..?” Josh asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yes, everything is perfectly fine. I’m just having no luck in finding any information regarding these ‘Seven Scions of Darkness’ that the mare from last night mentioned... What was her name again? Stream.. Stove..”

“Stelma?” Josh offered, taking a sip of his tea.

“Yes! That’s it.” Twilight levitated her own mug to her lips, slowly sipping the tea.

“Well, maybe we should wait for the princesses to find something? They’re supposed to be interrogating her.” Twilight blanched, nearly spitting out her tea.

“Interrogating? The princesses would never do something so...” Twilight paused for a moment. “Barbaric!” She said loudly, eyes wide. After a moment to calm down, Twilight took another sip of her tea before continuing. “They’ll be using a simple memory reading spell to look through her mind like a book. No pain to the pony that is on the receiving end of the spell.” Josh walked over and sat down beside Twilight, placing his mug on the table beside hers.

“Well, from what I gather, Connor and Stelma aren’t the only two. If we include myself that would make four scions that we don’t know about.” Twilight stared at Josh before shaking her head.

“No, you’re nothing like them. As far as I’m concerned there were ever six scions.” Josh quietly laughed as Twilight spoke in a very ‘matter of fact’ tone. Glancing up towards a clock on the wall, Twilight’s eyes widened. “Oh my goodness! The market will be open in ten minutes, if I don’t hurry we’ll miss the morning rush!”

“Morning rush..? I take it that you need to pick up some groceries?” Twilight turned her attention back to Josh, nodding.

“Yes, we’re running a bit low on a few items and I need to restock. I think I’ll let Spike sleep in today, would you like to come with me?” Josh shrugged, drinking the last bit of his tea.

“I suppose I could, it’s not like I have anything else that I could be doing... Well other than coming up with schematics for my future project.” Twilight smirked, heading towards the front door.

“You really plan on building one of those airships, huh?” Josh nodded, following Twilight.

“Yeah, I mean, it would make traveling so much easier. Not to mention, I’ve always wanted to have an airship of my own.”

“Then I suppose I can help you with it when you decide to get started. I’m sure the rest of the girls will be more than happy to help as well.” Twilight said.

A voice could be heard suddenly right above Twilight and Josh. “We’ll be more than happy to do what, Twilight?” Turning his attention, Josh looked up. His eyes catching sight of a rainbow maned pegasus sitting on a cloud above them, smirking.

“Oh hello Rainbow.” Twilight began. “I was just telling Josh that I would have no problem helping him build the airship that he’s been drawing up plans for. I told him that I’m sure you and the rest of the girls wouldn’t mind helping either.” Rainbow flew off of the cloud and hovered in the air in front of the two with her hooves crossed over her chest.

“An airship huh? Like a ship you can fly in the air?” Twilight and Josh nodded simultaneously. “Thats pretty awesome I guess. I suppose I can help you with building it, I mean who else besides Equestria’s fastest flyer would be...” Twilight shut Rainbow Dash’s mouth with her magic, receiving a glare from the mare.

“I think we get it, Rainbow Dash.” Rolling her eyes as the magic holding her mouth shut faded, Rainbow turned her attention to Josh.

“Well just be sure to let me know when you plan to get started, with my help it will most definitely be awesome!” Josh smirked, crossing his arms.

“It won't be for awhile, but I’ll make sure that you’re well aware for when I do start.” Rainbow threw a hoof into the air excitedly.

“Heck yeah! Thats going to be awesome! When you’re up in the sky, I’ll have to show you cloudsdale!”

“I’ll be looking forward to it, Rainbow. For now though, Twilight and I are going to the market to get groceries.” He nodded towards Twilight who was prodding the ground with a hoof, impatiently. “Care to tag along?” Rainbow shook her head.

“Pass. I have some weather duty stuff to work on, paperwork and all that... Boring! I’ll catch you two later!” Giving the two a wave, Rainbow quickly flew off. Josh stared after her for a moment before glancing towards Twilight.

“Doesn’t anyone know what happened last night besides me, you and Spike?” Twilight shook her head and began to lead Josh back towards the center of Ponyville where the market was situated.

“I wouldn’t believe so. Luna and I made sure to clean up any damages that would of been made to the park. And everypony would of been asleep or indoors at the time that I shot off the signal flare.” Twilight gave a light laugh. “To think we were just talking about the uses of that spell and then I get to use it so soon.” Josh smirked, shaking his head as he looked around the small town.

Every so often there would be one or two ponies that would stop what they're doing and stare with their mouths open. “I guess there were some ponies here that didn’t get the memo..” Twilight looked around and saw the ponies staring.

“Well we did introduce you to everypony at one of Pinkie’s parties. And as much as it seemed that everypony in town was there, I’m sure we’re going to have to make an official announcement. We’ll pay Mayor Mare a visit after we take the groceries back home. Josh stopped and stared at Twilight as she continued to walk.

“Her name is Mayor Mare..?” He muttered to himself before shaking his head and quickly catching up to the lavender unicorn. “Okay, so what’s first on the list?” Levitating a folded piece of paper out of her saddlebags, Twilight looked her list over.

“Carrots.” She said, nodding over to one stand that a orange earth pony was standing behind. As the two approached, the orange mare stopped what she was doing to stare at Josh. Clearing her throat, Twilight spoke up, breaking the carrot seller out of her reverie. “Good morning Carrot Top. Josh and I would like to purchase some of your carrots today. Two bushels please.” Raising a hand, Josh gave a small wave, smiling. Forcing a smile onto her own face, Carrot Top placed the two bushels that Twilight requested onto the stall. She then quickly accepting the bits that Twilight gave her as they were levitated towards her.

Josh and Twilight left Carrot Top’s stall and made their way around to the others. Josh continued to receive the same shocked treatment whenever they arrived at a new stall. “Hey Josh, would you like to stop by Sugarcube Corner for breakfast? I mean after we meet with the Mayor.” Twilight asked as they headed back to the library, having filled up her saddlebags with groceries.

“Yeah that would be fine.” At that, Josh’s stomach growled causing Twilight to smirk.

“We’ll make sure to get you fed then...” Twilight paused for a moment, thinking, a grin slowly forming on her face. “You know, Josh. Since you’re Princess Luna’s student... You’ll be receiving a weekly stipend now!” That thought caused Josh to stop and stare at Twilight.

“You mean I’m going to be paid for learning under Princess Luna?” Twilight nodded as she magicked the door of the Library open and walked inside. Moving into the kitchen, she sat her saddlebags onto the table and began to put away the groceries.

“Yep, I get a purse of one hundred bits every week for groceries and essentials. I’m unsure as to how much you’ll be receiving though.” Josh began to help put away the groceries, asking Twilight every so often as to where a certain item would be placed.

“Well, I don’t eat a whole lot... But I am going to need to buy some essentials.” He placed a hand on his face, his beard was almost to the point where it could be deemed mountain man quality. “I’m going to need to buy a razor as soon as possible I think...” Twilight tilted her head and looked at Josh.

“Why are you going to need a razor?” Josh blinked and looked at Twilight with a raised eyebrow.

“Well to get rid of all this facial hair of course. I mean yeah in the winter it’d be nice to have, but in the middle of summer...” He took a glance out the window in the kitchen. “It IS summer here, right? When I left my world it had just turned summer...” Twilight giggled softly, nodding while putting away the last of the groceries.

“We’re two months into summer right now, your world must of been a month behind ours.”

“I see... Is it possible that the temporal movement between worlds took a month’s time even though it felt instantaneous?” Twilight stared at Josh for a moment, blinking.

“I... Guess..?” Josh grinned, chuckling lightly. “I mean it’s quite possible, the amount of energy that it would of taken to travel between the two worlds could of...” She tilted her head as Josh continued to laugh. “What is it? Am I missing something?” Josh shook his head.

“I was joking mostly, I didn’t expect you to take it seriously.” Twilight blushed, turning her attention to the ground. “I know nothing about traveling between worlds, no one on my world has ever done it before... At least I don’t think anyone has. The thing is, from the way you put it, it now sounds like it’s quite a possibility.” Twilight turned her attention back to Josh, smiling.

“If you’d like, we can continue this theory-crafting over breakfast. For now, lets make our way over to city hall and meet the Mayor.” Josh nodded in agreement and made his way over to the front door, opened it and held it open for Twilight.

“Where are you two going?” A sleepy voice asked from upstairs. Turning their attention to the staircase, the two watched as Spike slowly made his way downstairs, rubbing his eyes.

“Hey there Spike, good morning to you. Want to come with us for some breakfast?” Josh asked while standing in the open doorway.

“Yeah, sure.” The young dragon let out a yawn as he walked over to Josh and Twilight.

“Well, we’re going to go to the Town Hall first to talk to the mayor. But afterwards we’re going to go to Sugarcube Corner.” Twilight told Spike as the three walked outside of the library.

“So what is the mayor like anyways?” Josh asked curiously.

“Oh, she’s really nice and does try hard to keep everything in line around town.” Twilight said. Spike rubbed his eyes as the two spoke, surveying ponyville as they passed through and headed towards the town hall.

As they reached the center of Ponyville, Josh looked up at the giant steepled building. “Two guesses, thats either a strange looking church... Or the town hall. And since I doubt that ponies have religions, I’ll go with the town hall.” Twilight stared at Josh with a raised eyebrow. Chalking it up as another human thing she shook her head and walked into the building.

The stallion at the front desk glanced up from a stack of paperwork. Blinking, he removed a pair of spectacles from his face. Wiping the lenses with a cloth, he placed them back on his face and stared at Josh. “Well... Thats definitely a different sight... Miss Sparkle, I didn’t know that you got a new pet, though it is wearing clothes. Is it safe to have it out in public?” The lavender mare’s eyes narrowed. As she opened her mouth to say something, Josh slowly strode in front of her.

“Well hello, my good sir. A fine day today, is it not? My friend Twilight and I would like to speak with the mayor. Is she in currently?” The stallion stared, his mouth agape, his reaction causing Spike to roll off of Twilight’s back, snickering.

“W..Well yes, she is in!” The Stallion stuttered after taking a moment to clear his throat. “I do apologize for my rude behavior I had no...” Josh raised a hand, cutting him off.

“Thats fine, would you please let the mayor know that Twilight and I have some urgent business to discuss with her?” The stallion nodded, backing up into the wall behind the desk.

“I will get on it right away!” Turning around, he quickly walked through a door and out of sight. Spike slowly got up, holding his chest while leaning on Twilight’s leg.

“Oh that was rich, Josh! You really got him!” Josh smirked, turning back around to face Twilight and Spike. Twilight rolled her eyes, placing a hoof over her face.

“Yes, well... That certainly happened.” Twilight muttered. Josh nodded, running a hand through his beard in thought. A few moments later, sounds of quick movement could be heard from behind the door that the mayor’s assistant had gone through. Twilight glanced between Josh and Spike, shaking her head.

“Oh I do apologize for the wait, Miss Sparkle.” A light tan mare with a silver mane and tail pushed through the door into the waiting room. Turning her attention to the group, she nodded to everyone. “My assistant informed me that you were interested in seeing me?” She looked over to Twilight expectantly.

Twilight glanced up at Josh before stepping forward. “Yes, that is correct. My friend Josh and I...” She gestured towards Josh with a hoof. “Would like to make a formal introduction to the town.” Josh nodded towards the Mayor as she turned her attention to him, looking him over.

“Yes well, that surely can be arranged. I can see why you would like to make such an introduction. One such as yourself could startle quite a few ponies just by walking around. I will be sure to speak with a few of my colleagues and see what we can arrange. I should be able to get a town meeting set up for this next saturday. Does that sound fine with you?” Josh and Twilight both nodded, receiving a smile from the Mayor. “Well then! Since that is settled... You said your name was Josh, right? A pleasure to meet you. We’ve never had one of your kind here in ponyville. What do you call your species?

"I'm a human..." One of his hands strayed to his ear, eliciting a frown from him. “Well, I used to be anyway, I suppose I’m more elven now.” Twilight looked up at Josh, offering him a soft smile.

“Well as I said it’s been a pleasure meeting you. I’ll be sure to stop by the library when I have more information about the town meeting. But for now I must wish you three a good day, I have a lot of work ahead of me.” The mayor turned around and went back through the doors to her office.

Spike yawned, rubbing his eyes as he glanced between Josh and Twilight who had turned and began walking towards the exit, quickly catching up to them. “So are we going to go get that breakfast I was promised now?” Josh grinned and glanced down at Spike.

“I don’t see why not, unless Twilight had anything else planned.” Twilight opened the front door of the town hall and exited the building. A quiet rumbling could be heard, as Twilight blushed and looked around.

“I heard that, lets hurry up and get going, I’m starving.” Spike smirked, patting his belly.

“Well then that’s settled. Onward to Sugarcube Corner!” Spike began walking at a brisk pace towards the Confectionary.

“Oh oh oh! Did somepony say they were heading to Sugarcube Corner!?” Pinkie asked, suddenly bouncing beside Josh, causing him to trip and fall over.

“Hello Pinkie...” He mumbled, faceful of dirt as he slowly got off of the ground. Staring at the pink pony, he couldn’t help but laugh lightly. “Energetic as always I see?” Pinkie nodded enthusiastically.

“Yep! And today is my day off! I was just about to head over to the library for a visit but look! You’re right here!” Pinkie giggled to herself causing Twilight to roll her eyes.

“If it’s all the same to you, I’d like to head on over and get something to eat.” Levitating Spike onto her back, Twilight walked ahead of Josh and Pinkie.

“Hey! Wait for us!” Pinkie yelled, bouncing quickly beside Twilight. Turning to look over her shoulder, she waved a hoof into the air, beckoning Josh to pick up the pace.

“Slow down now, I’m sure that there will be plenty of breakfast stuff there by the time we arrive.” Josh placed his hands in the pockets of his coat, shaking his head as he followed the rest of the group. Placing his right hand over his left arm, he traced the outline of the hole in his coat. “Still have to see Rarity later... Just hope that she isn’t too bothered by the fact that it ripped already.” Looking up, he staggered backwards as he came face to face with Pinkie Pie.

“You okay, Joshie? It seems like something is bothering you.” The pink mare turned her head upside down. Josh chuckled, shaking his head.

“I just got a rip in my coat.” Josh turned and showed Pinkie. “And I don’t think Rarity’s going to be too happy with it.” Pinkie smiled, bouncing up and down.

“Oh Rarity will patch it up super duperly quick! She’s really really good at fixing clothing.” Smirking, Josh shook his head and followed Pinkie into Sugarcube Corner where Spike and Twilight were waiting.

“Good, you two are here.” Twilight said, turning towards Josh and Pinkie. “Spike and I already ordered.” Josh turned his attention towards Mr. Cake who was waiting behind the counter patiently.

“Hello there Sir, I’ll have one of your...” Josh paused for a moment as he quickly browsed the menu. “I’ll take two of your...” Pausing once more, he quickly patted his coat pockets. Remembering that he didn’t have any money, he cleared his throat and turned his attention to Mr. Cake. “Actually, I’m good.” Smiling, Josh turned and walked over to where Twilight was sitting with Pinkie and Spike. Spike raised an eyebrow as he approached.

“Why didn’t you order anything?” Spike asked. Twilight blinked and looked between Spike and Josh. She had been talking with Pinkie and hadn’t noticed that Josh had canceled his order. Shrugging, Josh sat down beside the small dragon and stretched.

“Well I can’t really order anything without money, now can I?” Twilight and Pinkie’s eyes widened.

“Oh! I completely forgot, Josh! I apologize. Here, let me get you something, is there anything you want?” Twilight asked. Josh frowned, shaking his head.

“It’s really no big deal, I can wait till we get home.” Pinkie shook her head and stood up, bouncing over behind the store’s counter before Josh could say anything. “I really hope Pinkie isn’t doing what I think she’s doing..” Twilight smiled softly and shook her head.

“It’s just Pinkie’s way.” Before Josh could respond, Pinkie bounced back into the room and placed a plate in front of him with two blueberry muffins on it. She then placed a glass of milk on the table beside the plate. Looking up, he chuckled lightly.

“Thanks Pinkie, I owe ya one.” Pinkie giggled and bounced back into her seat as Mr. Cake walked over to their table and passed out the rest of the food.

“Enjoy your breakfast, everypony.” Josh nodded towards Mr. Cake.

“I’ll be sure to bring repayment for this once I start to receive my stipend.” Mr. Cake laughed, shaking his head.

“There is really no need, but if you feel like you have to, I won't stop you.” Turning, he then walked back towards the counter to help the next customer.

“Oh boy! Gem coated muffins!” Spike grinned widely as he took a bite of one of his muffins. Josh raised an eyebrow and shook his head as he took a bite of one of his own muffins.

“Sooooooo... What do you think?” Pinkie asked, grinning. “Those were part of the batch that I baked myself this morning.” Josh swallowed his bite, taking a drink of milk.

“They taste really good, Pinkie. You did a great job.” The pink mare beamed happily, continuing to eat her own chocolate chip muffins. Josh took another bite and then turned his attention to Twilight. “So, what did you get?” He asked curiously.

“Banana nut muffins.” Twilight said, holding one up with her levitation. “Want to try one?” Josh blinked, shaking his head.

“No, it’s fine, I wouldn’t want you to have less.” Twilight laughed, shaking her head.

“Not at all. Here try some of this one, and I’ll try some of yours. That way it’s even for both of us and neither of us gets any less.” Josh sat the muffin that he held in his hand, back down on the plate.

“Well when you put it that way, I suppose I could try yours.” Josh said, receiving a smile from the lavender mare. Twilight let out a breath that she didn’t realize that she’d been holding in. Placing her muffin down on Josh’s plate, she paused to glance down under the table. Turning her attention back up, she picked up Josh’s muffin and sat it down on her own plate. Raising an eyebrow, Spike glanced under the table, catching sight of a book. Rolling his eyes, he placed a claw over his face, continuing to eat his own breakfast.

“Oh! Oh! Can I play too?” Pinkie asked, picking up one of her own muffins. As she was about to hoof it towards Josh, Spike made a wry face and belched out a scroll in a gout of green flames. Pushing himself backwards in his seat, Josh stared as the green flames dissipated and a scroll fell on top of his plate of muffins. Levitating the scroll up, Twilight pulled it towards her. Opening it up, she read through it and gasped loudly.

“What is it? Is it information about...” Josh glanced at Pinkie, turning his attention back to Twilight. “Well... You know.” Twilight shook her head, her mouth agape.

“Grab your muffins, everypony! We have to get to the library as soon as possible!” Josh stared at Twilight, confused. Spike rolled his eyes and grabbed the last bit of his muffin and threw it into his mouth. Twilight looked over at Pinkie, eyes wide. “Can you gather our friends and tell them to meet us at the Library?” Pinkie saluted, grinning.

“Okie Dokie Lokie! Pinkie Pie is on the job!” With that, the pink mare bounced her way out of Sugarcube corner. Josh stood up, picking the two muffins off of his plate.

“What is this about, Twilight?” Spike asked. Shaking her head, Twilight began to head towards the front door, her eyes scanning the letter, over and over.

“I’ll tell you when everypony meets us at the Library, that way I don’t have to explain it more than once.” Twilight said as she exited the bakery. As Josh and Spike caught up to her, Twilight was already bouncing on her hooves. “Actually, you know what? I’m just going to teleport there. Spike, you’re coming too.” Twilight levitated spike onto her back before turning to Josh. “I’m sorry about breakfast, I’ll explain more when you get to the library with everypony else.” Before Josh could say anything, Twilight had already disappeared with Spike in a burst of Purple light.

“Well... And here I thought it couldn’t get any weirder...” Josh turned to head down the street and came face to face with Pinkie Pie. Staggering backwards, he fell back and onto his rear. “W..What are you doing, Pinkie? I thought you were going to get your friends and tell them to meet at the library?” Pinkie giggled.

“Oh that? I already took care of it, silly! Well, most of it! Theres still one friend who isn’t on their way there yet!” Josh raised an eyebrow and slowly stood up.

“Yeah? And who might that be?” Pinkie rolled her eyes, smiling.

“Why you of course! You’re not there! You’re here! So I’m here to take you there!” Josh blinked, shaking his head.

“Right... So, lets get on with it then, hmm?” Josh began to walk in the direction of the library as Pinkie bounced up and down beside him.

“So, what do you think the letter said? Maybe the Princess is going to have Twilight move away! Maybe..” Josh ruffled the pink mare’s mane, shaking his head.

“No, it’s not going to be anything like that... Something extremely important must of come up for Twilight to be acting as if the situation is bad... If Princess Celestia was going to make Twilight move, don’t you think that the letter would of made Twilight sad?” Pinkie tapped her chin with a hoof in thought before nodding to Josh.

“You’re most absolutely positively right! I’m such a silly filly to think that the Princess would make her move.” She giggled as she approached the Library’s door and threw it open. Inside, the rest of the group had already gathered. They watched as Twilight ran back and forth, gathering different items and throwing them into a bag that Spike was carrying.

“No no no.. No no. Ugh! I need the magical compendium volumes one through thirty six, where is it!” After throwing a couple of books off a shelf, she beamed happily as she levitated a larger book out and dumped it right on Spike. Her eyes darted back in forth before sparkling.

“Flashcards! I should make some flashcards!” Running over to her desk, Twilight levitated a large stack of notecards out and turned towards Spike. “Spike, I’m going to need you to quiz me on everything I’ve ever learned... Ever.” Spike crawled slowly out from under the large magical compendium. The stack of notecards were immediately shoved into Spike’s arms as he finally got up to his feet. Twilight stared at the dragon for a moment with a hoof on her chin. “That isn’t going to be enough cards...”

“Twilight calm down.” Spike said, placing the note-cards aside. “It’s just a test.” The lavender mare slowly turned to him.

“Just... A test..?” Her eye twitched. “Just a test!? Princess Celestia wants to give me some kind of exam and you’re trying to tell me to calm down because it’s just a test!?” Spike backed up into a corner and cleared his throat. Running a hand through his hair, Josh approached the two.

“Uh... Yes..?” Spike muttered, eyes darting about the room.

“I’d say she’s handling things pretty well... Considering.” Applejack said, chuckling lightly, receiving a glance from Rarity before the two turned back towards the frantic lavender pony.

Upon seeing the mare’s horn lighting up, Josh stepped up beside Twilight and gently nudged her. “Twilight, Spike has a point. How are you supposed to be able to concentrate if you’re going all wacko over this exam..?” The mare let the magic fade. Sighing, she turned and finished filling up her saddlebag, levitating it onto her back. She turned towards Josh, smiling softly.

“You’re right, you’re absolutely right.” Her gaze fell over both Josh and Spike. “Both of you are right. If I want to succeed at this exam, I have to be in the right frame of mind. And freaking out over it will not help me one bit.” Josh nodded as Spike raised a claw to his forehead, wiping away a bead of sweat.

A few moment later, a brief series of knocks resounded through the library. “And that is probably our escort, Twilight.” Spike said as he handed her the saddlebag filled with materials.

“Thanks Spike.” Twilight said as she levitated the bag as well as Spike onto her back. “Okay everypony, I should be back either tonight or tomorrow.” Turning towards the front door with a look of determination, she opened it and came face to face with two of Celestia’s solar guard.

“Twilight Sparkle. We’re here to fly you to the castle for your meeting with Princess Celestia.” Twilight nodded to the guards, glancing back into the library at her friends.

“Good luck Twilight. We’re rooting for you.” Josh smirked and gave a small wave as the rest of the group also waved to Twilight.

“Thank you everypony. I’ll be back soon!” With that, Twilight climbed into the carriage as the guards climbed aboard with her and nodded to the driver to begin flight. Within moments the carriage was in the air and on it’s way to Canterlot.

“Well, I guess that means it’s time to finish these muffins.” Josh walked past the rest of the ponies and sat down at the kitchen table. Licking his lips he leaned in to take a bite.

“Ahem...” Josh glanced to his right, mouth open as caught sight of Rarity looking at him with a raised eyebrow. Closing his mouth, he cleared his throat and smiled at the white unicorn. “Hello there Rarity, how may I help you?”

“Well, you can start by telling me how you got such a dreadful rip in your coat that I made you!” Josh blinked and glanced towards the other ponies in the room. Rainbow and Applejack were having trouble holding back grins, well aware as to what Josh was about to experience. “I can’t believe that you’ve had that coat a little over a week and it’s already like this.”

“Well you see Rarity, I was umm practicing magic with Twilight and...” Rarity shook her head, tutting.

“Well whatever happened is in the past. Take off that coat so l can take it back to my boutique and fix it.” Josh shut his mouth and slowly stood up and removed the coat. Folding it up, he handed the clothing over to Rarity. “There we are! Now, come over to my shop in about an hour and I’ll have it good as new for you.” Sighing, Josh shook his head, smiling.

“Thank you Rarity, I’ll head on over there in a bit then.” Turning, Rarity opened the library door and walked outside.

“Um... I will be going too.. If thats okay I mean..” Fluttershy looked around. “I have to go take care of my animal friends. I haven’t finished feeding them today.” Josh smiled and nodded towards Fluttershy.

“Of course. It was nice seeing you again, Fluttershy.” The yellow mare gave a small smile before walking out of the library as well, leaving Josh with Applejack, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash.

Josh turned back towards the muffins on the table and picked one up to take a bite when suddenly a knock came from the front door.

“Oh for crying out loud!” Josh grumbled as he placed the muffin back on the table and made to get up.

“I got it!” Applejack, Pinkie and Rainbow all said at once as they ran forward and collided with each other, rolling on the floor in a ball before coming to a halt near Josh.

“Hey! You’re stepping on my wing!” Rainbow yelled from underneath the pile.

“Ow! Yer pullin’ on my mane Pinkie,” Applejack said as Pinkie giggled from the top of the pile.

“Oops! Sorry, girls.” Pinkie hopped off of both Applejack and Rainbow, bouncing over to the door. Rainbow and Applejack slowly stood up and glanced at each other before grinning at each other.

“Letter for Josh!” Ditzy said as Pinkie opened the door and greeted her. “Oh hello, Pinkie, is Josh around?” Ditzy asked curiously before looking up and smiling at Josh. “Letter for you.” Pinkie stepped aside as Josh accepted the letter from the wall-eyed mare.

“Thanks Ditzy, how are you today?” Ditzy smiled, landing on the ground and allowing her wings a break.

“I’m doing well, thanks for asking! You look... Different, I can’t seem to place it.” Josh scratched the back of his head and frowned.

“Yeah... I’ve had a few changes happen to me since I’ve been here in Equestria.” Ditzy smiled at him.

“Well, however you look, you’re still you. Remember?” Josh grinned, laughing lightly.

“You’re absolutely right, Miss Doo. Thank you for reminding this silly human.” Ditzy smiled, nodding.

“Anytime! As much as I’d like to stay around and chat, I have to deliver the rest of these letters.” Ditzy said as she patted her mailbag with one hoof.

“Fly safely then! And have a good day!” Josh waved at the mailmare before turning around and walking back into the library. Glancing down at the card in his hand, he raised an eyebrow. “I take it this is the royal seal?” Josh held up the letter, receiving a nod from Pinkie. At the mention of the seal, Dash and Applejack walked over with curious looks on their faces.

“A letter from the princess! You have to open it right away!” Dash said as she flew up and hovered over Josh’s shoulder. Nodding in agreement, Josh slowly removed the seal and opened the letter.

Dear Josh

By the time you receive this letter, Twilight should be on her way to Canterlot. I would like to ask that you let the rest of her friends know that I would like for all of you to take the next train to Canterlot. Enclosed with this letter are six train tickets with which you will be able to use to board the train. I look forward to seeing you all.

-Princess Celestia

Josh raised an eyebrow, pulling out the six tickets. “Well, I guess we’re going to Canterlot.” Josh said, handing a ticket to Pinkie Pie and Applejack. Turning to Rainbow, he gave her the rest of the tickets. “Okay miss speedy.” He said with a grin. “Can you take the last ones over to Fluttershy and Rarity?” Rainbow Dash grinned and nodded.

“Of course, Josh. I’ll have them delivered in ten seconds flat.” Rainbow then walked out the front door and flew off to deliver the tickets.

“Ah’m goin to go’n’tell my family that ah’ll be in Canterlot on request of the Princess.

Taking his ticket he looked it over and compared the time of departure for the next train with the wall clock. He then glanced towards Pinkie. “The next train will be here in two hours. So you have plenty of time to do whatever and we’ll meet up at the station then.” Josh blinked, chuckling to himself. “Some things never change..” He muttered as he turned away from Pinkie and headed upstairs towards his room. A few moments later he could hear the party pony bounce her way up the stairs after him.

“Okay... So... Phone, and..” Josh looked around, blinking. “Well I guess thats all I really have to bring.”

“What do you mean ‘Some things never change’, Joshie?” Pinkie asked curiously. Josh glanced over his shoulder at Pinkie, chuckling to himself.

“Oh it’s just I’m usually the one to end up organizing things and making sure everything goes as planned. I tend to have a knack for it.” Pinkie giggled and hopped onto Josh’s bed.

“If you’re such a good planny plannerson, maybe you can help me plan a party sometime!” Pinkie said happily.

“I suppose I could do that.” Josh sat down on the bed beside the pink mare who quickly laid down beside him. Reaching over, Josh ruffled her mane, grinning.

“You tend to do that a lot, Joshie. And not just to me but almost everypony I’ve seen you around. Is it a human thing?” Pinkie asked curiously.

“You mean this?” He chuckled and ruffled her mane again, eliciting a giggle from her.

“Of course that, silly filly.” Pinkie said, bouncing a bit where she lay.

“Well I’ve always ruffled the hair of those shorter than me. Whether it’s my siblings or my little nephew or you silly ponies.” Josh turned his phone on and waited for it to boot up. Pinkie Pie sat up suddenly and climbed onto Josh’s back, ruffling his hair with one of her hooves.

“Hmm... Yep! I can see why you’d like it!” Pinkie continued to ruffle his hair, causing him to laugh lightly. “This is kind of fun!”

“So Pinkie..” Josh said suddenly, causing the pink mare to hop off of his back, landing beside him once more.

“Yes Joshie?” She asked curiously, tilting her head.

“Whatever ends up happening in Canterlot... Be careful, okay?” Pinkie gave a small smile, wrapping her hooves around Josh in a hug.

“Thanks for worrying about me, but I’ll be fine! And thats a Pinkie Promise!” She crossed a hoof over her heart before flapping both of her hooves like wings and finally placing one hoof over her eye. Josh raised an eyebrow, obviously confused by the whole thing.

“A... Pinky promise..? But you don’t even have pinkies.” Josh held up a hand and wiggled his pinky finger.

“Not that kind of pinky, silly. A Pinkie promise is a type of promise that I made! And nopony breaks a Pinkie promise, because otherwise my promise detector would go off! And breaking a promise to a friend is the quickest way to lose a friend. So I take my promises very seriously.” The pink mare nodded, her face having taken on a very serious expression.

“I see.” Josh said, laughing. Turning his attention back to his phone, he navigated over to the music player. “Would you like to listen to some music while we wait on the train?” Pinkie nodded enthusiastically as she turned her attention to the device in Josh’s hand.

Dark Monastery

“Master... Did you feel that?” Slough asked, standing in the orb chamber.

“Of course I did... Darkness grows quickly in the northern reaches of the world of Equestria. It would seem that the Crystal Empire has returned a lot sooner than I anticipated. This will make things interesting.” The elemental sat in silence for a few moments, waiting for his master to speak up once more.

“Slough... I would like for you to tell Darcy to head to the Crystal Empire and ally herself with the dark one there. Those two should be plenty able to take hold of the empire and then the Crystal Heart. With that artifact, my plans will be able to come to fruition quicker than I had anticipated.” Nodding the elemental slowly began to back out of the room.

“As you wish, my master.” Slough backed out of the room and closed the door. As he turned around, he came face to face with his sister.

“Dearest brother, has the master granted you a task for us?” Slough shook his head, frowning.

“No dearest sister... He wishes to grant that elf, Darcy, the honor of acquiring the Crystal Heart for him.” Aqua turned around on her heel and began walking down the hallway.

“It only means, brother, that the master has better plans for us. Let us be patient and wait for his wisdom to manifest itself before us.” Slough followed his sister for a ways before changing course and walking down a separate hallway towards the bedrooms. Upon reaching Darcy’s door, he knocked twice and then waited.

“Ugh! Can’t I get some peace for just a moment!? If it isn’t the annoying crickets outside, it’s Drex trying to talk to me and...” Darcy stopped talking as she opened the door, her face taking on a steely expression as she stared at Slough. “What is it that you want?” She asked coldly.

“The Master wishes to speak with you...” Slough said, his voice a dull monotone. Darcy’s eyes narrowed as she walked past Slough and down the halls towards the master’s chambers. Slough watched quietly as she turned out of sight.

“Nothing better happen to that girl...” A dark voice muttered from behind the elemental. Slough grinned, revealing rows of sharp teeth as he turned towards Drex.

“I can’t promise anything... You know as well as I that no matter how cute that world looks on the surface, it has a very, very, dark undertone.” Drex frowned.

“Why is she being sent to that world? Why was Connor experimenting there... Why is it that everything thats going on currently is revolving around that bloody planet!?” One of his fists grew in size as he punched towards one of the walls, leaving a fish-shaped hole in it. Slough tisked, shrugging.

“You’d better relax, Drex. You know what would happen if you lost control... That illusion spell won’t keep if you allow your rage to take hold.” The large man grimaced and began to take a deep breaths in, and letting them out slowly to calm down.

Darcy slowly approached the large double doors to the orb chamber. Placing her hand on one of the doors, she pushed it open and then closed it behind her.

“Good, you have arrived...” A resounding voice echoed around the orb chamber.

“Yes.. I’ve come as requested, Master.” Darcy said calmly, even though she wasn’t calm at all.

“Indeed you have. Now to business.. I am going to be sending you to Equestria, I’m sure that you’re familiar with it.” Darcy’s eyes widened. She had known that Connor went there on multiple occasions and then more recently Stelma.

“And what is it you would like for me to do while I’m there, Master..?” Darcy asked, confused.

“Oh I’m glad you have asked. In the northern reaches of their planet is a place called the Crystal Empire. In it resides an extremely powerful artifact that gains its strength from emotions. Strong emotions can power it up to make it a gem of incredible worth. I would like for you to head there and join up with the local tough guy. He goes by the name of Sombra and can take the form of a giant dark cloud, I’m sure you won't miss him. He’s already expecting an emissary from me.” The voice was silent for a moment before continuing. “Do you believe that you can complete this task..?”

Darcy cleared her throat, nodding. “Of course, Master. I would never wish to fail you.” A dark laugh reverberated through the room.

“But of course you wouldn’t, my dear. Now I have other things I need to be doing. I would like for you to head there immediately, you can take the teleport tower to make the journey quicker.” Darcy curtsied before turning and walking out of the room.

Ponyville: Golden Oaks Library

Josh and Pinkie sat laughing on his bed as he told her about some of his escapades from when he lived in his world. “Can you believe it? She was so angry that she just pushed him right off of the pier! Oh man we were all laughing and making jokes about that one for weeks.” Josh’s laughter slowed as his eyes grew distant from the memories, smiling softly. Pinkie tilted her head and looked him over curiously, prodding him with her hoof.

“You’re doing it again, Joshie. Are you going to go into daydream land after every funny memory you tell me?” Josh grinned and shrugged and pulled out his phone, looking at the time, he raised an eyebrow as he turned towards Pinkie.

“Who knows, my pink furry companion! But we shouldn’t stick around to find out. We have to be at the train station in about 15 minutes.” Pinkie giggled, hopping off of the bed.

“Then lets get going!” Pinkie said as Josh quickly threw a bag onto his bed and piled some of his books and paper into it before turning and following Pinkie out of the room and library. The books and paper were brought along in case he ended up becoming bored and wanted to work on his schematics some more.

Making sure that his phone was pocketed, he took out a spare key that Twilight had given him and locked the Library door. Running to catch up to Pinkie, he slowed down to a walk beside her. “So, how long is the train ride to Canterlot anyways?” He asked curiously.

“About an hour. Since we’re on royal business, it will go a bit faster than normal.” Pinkie said. Josh nodded, a hand running through his beard.

“Oh man... I can’t believe I completely forgot to pick up a shaving razor... I wonder if unicorns have a spell to remove facial hair, I’ll have to ask Rarity or Twilight when I get a chance.”

“I do believe I have a spell or two that could help you remove that scruff on your face. If you would like, I could remove it for you.” Rarity said, coming up behind Pinkie and Josh with Fluttershy beside her.

Josh turned around and raised an eyebrow. “Well hello there Rarity, Fluttershy.” He said, nodding to the two. Fluttershy smiled and nodded in return. “If it wouldn’t be too much trouble Rarity, it would be highly appreciated.” Rarity raised her head high.

“But of course, Josh. It won't take but a moment, now hold still.” Her horn began to glow, and soon Josh could feel a scratchy sensation take hold of his face. Seconds later all of his facial hair fell right to the ground, as if someone took a razor and quickly cut it all off in but a moment. “There you go, nice and clean.”

Rarity smirked as she walked past Josh and continued on towards the train station. “Come along now, our train should be arriving.”

Josh slowly raised a hand up to his face, rubbing it, amazed. “Well... That happened.” He muttered as he turned to follow the group of ponies.

“Oh! And before I forget, Josh...” Rarity said as her horn lit up again. She then gently pulled out his folded coat from her saddlebag. “There you go! All patched up.” Josh took the coat and held up the sleeve that got ripped. Running his fingers along the threads, he turned his attention back to Rarity.

“Wow, I knew you were good but... You can’t even tell that this was ever any ripping at all.” Josh slowly took the long coat and threw it on, the back of it billowing out behind him. “Thanks a bunch, Rarity.” Rarity looked up at Josh and smiled.

“Anything for a friend, now let us go, Rainbow Dash should already be at the station waiting for us.” Josh nodded and followed the girls to the station. As they arrived, Pinkie bounced up and down, pointing one hoof to the sky. As Josh looked up, he could see a cloud with a rainbow striped tail lazily laying off of the side of it.

“Speaking of which, look who we have here?” Josh said. Glancing over to Fluttershy, he slowly bent down to her level. “Hey, think you can fly up there and get Rainbow to join us down here for a moment? If you don’t mind I mean.” Fluttershy smiled, nodding.

“I don’t mind.” As Fluttershy flew up to get Rainbow’s attention, Applejack approached the group.

"Ah was wondering when ya’ll would show up.” Rarity turned her attention towards Applejack.

“Yes, well. It would seem that we all have arrived. The Train should be here any moment.” As Rarity finished her sentence, a loud whistle from the train filled the air.

"And there it is.” Applejack said as she walked over to the ticket booth and presented her ticket before walking over and onto the train.

Josh watched as Rarity followed Applejack onto the train. Turning his attention skyward, he saw Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash gliding down towards him and Pinkie. “Welcome to the world of the living.” Josh smirked at Rainbow who replied with an eyeroll.

“Just getting a nap in before having to leave.” She said, presenting her own ticket at the booth and heading onto the train.

Josh stood aside and gestured towards the ticket booth. “After you ladies.” He said, smiling to Pinkie and Fluttershy. Pinkie giggled as she bounced over to the booth and with Fluttershy right behind her.

As Josh reached the counter, he handed the stallion behind it his ticket. The pony looked between Josh and the Ticket. “Umm... Have a nice ride.” The Ticketmaster said with a raised eyebrow.

“Thanks.” Josh said, grinning. “And a good day to you, sir.” Turning he followed the rest of the group onto the train.

Once the group got all settled in, Fluttershy hovered to the seat across from Josh. Taking out his phone, he looked through the different apps he had on it. Feeling Fluttershy watching him, he glanced up at her, catching sight of her quickly turning away. “Is everything okay, Fluttershy..?

“Oh yes, everything is fine...” She said quietly, looking down at her hooves.

“Are you sure? Is there anything on your mind?” Josh asked curiously. He hadn’t really spoken with the yellow pegasus since the party that Pinkie had thrown for him, and was cautious as to not upset her.

“Well.. I was um... I was wondering if you had any pets when you lived on your world.” She asked quietly. Josh shook his head, frowning.

“I’ve had pets in the past, but I didn’t have any current pets when I got sent here to Equestria.” Fluttershy’s ears perked up a bit.

“So.. So you do like animals then?” She asked. Josh nodded, eliciting a smile from Fluttershy. “Oh that is wonderful! Um.. Would you be interested in possible adopting a small animal friend? I mean you don’t have to if you don’t want to...” Josh smiled, chuckling lightly.

“I wouldn’t mind seeing what pets you have, Fluttershy. But I don’t know if I should adopt a pet until I have a more stable living arrangement. I honestly have no idea how long I will be residing with Twilight for.” Fluttershy nodded, returning Josh’s smile.

“That is fine. Just let me know whenever you’re interested in coming over and looking at the pets.

“But of course. Don’t get me wrong, I definitely would be interested in getting a pet eventually.” Fluttershy beamed at the thought of one of her animal friends finding a home.

“Oh I’m so happy to hear that.” Fluttershy said. The voices of two ponies speaking could be heard from the other end of the cabin as Josh and Fluttershy turned their attention towards the noise.

“Ah don’t know what you’re talking about Rarity. I don’t have any fancy outfits besides that Gala dress that you made for me a while back.” Applejack said stubbornly. “And ah don’t feel like I have to dress up every time we make a trip to Canterlot.” Rarity shook her head, sighing.

“Oh dear Applejack, we’re going to see the princesses! Don’t you want to look presentable?” Rarity asked, causing Applejack to facehoof.

“I look presentable enough with just my stetson, Rarity.” Applejack stated firmly.

“Oh lay off a bit Rarity, if Applejack is fine with the way she looks, then that is completely fine. And that goes for the rest of us.” Rainbow Dash said suddenly, hovering between the two. Rarity rolled her eyes and walked over to Josh, hopping onto the bench beside him.

“Hey, before you try to pull me into this, I just want to let you know that I don’t understand pony fashion and cannot honestly throw in an opinion.” Rarity opened her mouth for a moment before closing it. Fluttershy giggled as she watched her friend’s speechless behaviour.

“Hmmph... Just like a stallion, trying to get out of a question concerning a mare’s appearance.” Rarity grumbled to herself. The rest of the trip was pretty quiet for the most part. Josh spent his time either looking at his phone or staring out the window.

“You know..” Josh said suddenly while staring out the window, catching the attention of the rest of the group. “I honestly never thought I’d see a castle up close before. This place is huge...” Rarity raised her head high.

“I really hope you get a chance to look around, Josh. Canterlot is just filled with many high class places to go to. But of course we’ll probably be heading straight for the castle as soon as we arrive.” Josh watched through the window as the train began to slow down, slowly coming to a halt in front of the Canterlot Station.

“Ponyville to Canterlot train has arrived! Please make your way off of the train so the boarding party may climb on.” The conductor called out over an intercom. Josh stood up and stretched, following the group as they got off of the train.

“Good you’re here.” Josh heard a familiar voice say as he turned to look towards one side of the train station. Standing on the far end of the platform was Twilight with Spike on her back. Josh quickly jogged over to her, smiling. The rest of the group had quickly followed behind Josh as one question was on everyone’s mind.

“Hey! How was your test, Twilight?” They all seemed to ask at one time. Twilight shook her head, sighing.

“We’re heading to the Crystal Empire, everypony. I will tell you more about it when we get on our way.” Twilight said. Spike hopped down off of her back and ran over to talk to Rarity.

Twilight turned her attention over to Josh. “Unfortunately you can’t join us, Josh. I’m sorry.” Twilight said sadly. Josh raised an eyebrow curiously as he heard someone nearby clear their throat. Twilight and Josh both looked up towards Princess Celestia, who was smiling warmly at the gathered group. Josh and the rest of the gathered group quickly dropped to a bow before the princess.

“That is correct, you will be staying with myself and Luna up at the castle in one of our guest rooms while we wait for Twilight and her friends to return.” Josh raised from his bow and nodded to the Princess.

“I see. If that is what you wish then.” Josh bent down to Twilight’s level and looked her in the eyes. “I can only assume that you have to leave right away... You make sure to be safe..” Josh looked up and looked between the rest of his friends. “You all be sure to stay safe as well. I want to see you all without a scratch on you when you return.” Rainbow dash rolled her eyes and hovered up beside Josh.

“Of course we’re going to be fine. We’re awesome!” Rainbow said. Pinkie giggled and bounced over, wrapping her hooves around Josh in a hug.

“No need to worry about us you silly filly. We’ll be back before you know it and then have a ‘We’re back in Ponyville’ party!” Josh smirked at Pinkie, ruffling her mane. Pinkie let go of Josh and bounced over and around Princess Celestia causing the princess to give a light hearted laugh.

Twilight walked up to Josh, smiling warmly. “We’re going to be just fine, Josh. I promise.” She wrapped her hooves around his neck, nuzzling his cheek. Josh blinked, blushing, after a brief moment he wrapped his arms around her. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” She whispered softly.

“A Pinkie promise huh?” Josh muttered quietly, chuckling to himself. “Then I guess you better keep that promise or Pinkie will know.” Twilight giggled, letting go of Josh and backing away towards her friends who were waiting for her in front of the train. Princess Celestia glanced between Josh and her student for a moment with a raised eyebrow before Josh spoke up.

“Hey, be sure to bring me back something shiny okay? I mean it’s the ‘Crystal’ empire after all. They have to have some shiny things.” Pinkie saluted, nominating herself as the souvenir collector when they reach the Crystal Empire.

“Okie dokie! You can count on me to find the most stupendously wonderful souvenir, Joshie!” Josh saluted back. He dropped his arm and watched as the group hopped on board the train leading towards the Empire.

“They’re going to be fine, Josh. I have the highest belief that Twilight Sparkle and her friends will be able to successfully accomplish what I sent them to do.” Josh looked over to see Princess Celestia approach him. He sighed and raised a hand, rubbing his temples.

“I sure hope so, Princess... I don’t know why but I have this feeling that not everything will be going as planned.” Josh said. The two stood in silence for a moment, watching the train leave.

“I hope you don’t mind if I teleport us up to the castle, it would be a lot faster than walking through Canterlot. And I’m sure that you’ve had your fill of ponies giving you awkward looks today.” The Princess smirked at Josh who was eye-level with her. Laughing lightly, Josh shook his head.

“That's completely fine with me, Princess.” Josh said as he turned and watched the Solar Princess’s horn glow. Moments later the two found themselves in the throne room of the castle.

“Now, I have already made preparations for your room, Josh. You are invited to join myself and my sister Luna for dinner this evening. We will speak more about the current goings on at that time.” Turning the head towards the door, she nodded for a tan earth pony guard to approach her. “This here is Dawn. I have assigned for her to be your guide during your stay here. If you need any assistance, feel free to ask her.” The Princess turned away, leaving Dawn and Josh to glance at each other. “Oh, Dinner will be in two hours, so for now head on to your room with Dawn and make yourself comfortable.” Celestia then left the throne room, exiting through a door behind the throne itself.

Josh turned to Dawn who was already walking towards the exit. As he caught up with her, he cleared his throat. “It’s nice to meet you, miss Dawn.” The pony rolled her eyes and continued walking. “Um... Have you worked here long? What's the pay like for a guard?”

Dawn turned her him and placed a hoof on her forehead, sighing. “I’m just here to assist you, not be friends. If you want to become all buddy buddy then you’d best be off asking the Princess to assign you a different guard.” Josh blinked in exasperation. The two walked in silence until they finally approached one of many large doors that lined one of the upper hallways of the castle.

“This will be your room... If you need anything, just ask. I’ve been assigned to sit outside of your room to assist you.” She muttered, not really caring if the large biped behind her heard her or not.

“Um... Thank you for guiding me here, miss Dawn. I will be sure to let you know if there is anything I need.” The pony nodded as Josh walked past her and into the large guest room, closing the door behind him. His eyes widened as he surveyed every detail. The bed had to be twice the size of the one that Twilight had in the guest room.

“Well, I could definitely get used to this..” He muttered, dropping his bag onto a desk that was situated on one side of the room. “It’s a shame that Twilight had to leave so quickly, I wonder what they have to do at this Crystal Empire place.” Saying the name caused a shudder to run through Josh. He grimaced as he stood up and made his way over to the window which opened up to a balcony. “So this is Canterlot... The city where Twilight lived while growing up. It definitely is a nice place thats for sure.”

Walking over to the desk, he opened up his bag and pulled out the airship schematics that he had been working on at the Library. Pulling out a chair he placed the bag on the floor beside him and took out a quill and inkwell from it. Placing the materials on the desk he looked over the paperwork and began to brainstorm new ways that he could make the machine fly.

A few hours later, a knocking came from the door. After a moment, some more knocking. Finally the door opened and Dawn walked in with an annoyed expression. As she approached Josh, she raised an eyebrow at seeing him sitting at the desk with his head in his hands as he stared at the paper before him.

“Hey, your name was Josh, right? It’s time for Dinner, so.. Lets get going.” Dawn said, turning around and exiting the room. Josh flinched at hearing her voice, his concentration broken. Grumbling he slowly stood up and followed out of the room.

“Lead on.” Josh muttered, gesturing to the tan pony as he closed the door to his room behind him. Josh followed the mare towards the dining hall, but his mind was elsewhere, still working on the schematics back in his room. Dawn cleared her throat and glanced back at Josh.

“Be sure to be on your best behaviour. I sure hope you know your table manners, you wouldn’t want to look bad in front of the Princesses.” She said as the two approached a pair of large double doors. “I’ll wait here for you to return. Go on in, and remember, best behavior.” Josh nodded and pushed open one of the doors, closing it behind him. Inside the room was a large table with all sorts of vegetarian foods. At the far end, Princess Celestia sat with her attention focused on her sister, who was sitting to her right. To the left of the princess sat a white stallion with a blonde mane.

Once the door to the room had shut fully, the three royal ponies looked up at Josh. Luna wore a smile, while the white Stallion stared at him with his mouth open. Josh smirked and approached the side of the table that Luna was on. “You might want to shut your mouth there sir. You’ll catch flies if you leave it open.” The white stallion’s eyes widened as he glanced towards Princess Celestia and Luna before turning his attention back on Josh.

“W..Who are you! State your name this instant before I have the guards arrest you immediately!” The white stallion yelled, receiving a raised eyebrow from Josh as he sat down beside Princess Luna.

“Now now, Prince Blueblood. That is no way to speak to our guest.” Celestia said calmly as the stallion turned his attention back towards her.

“But.. But Auntie! This.. This.. Ape!? Really? This creature is your guest!? Well I never! I thought your standards for the company you keep were higher than this.” Blueblood shouted. Princess Luna’s eyes darkened at Blueblood’s reaction to Josh.

“Thou... You will apologize this instant to Josh, Nephew. Otherwise you will be dining with the servants this night.” Blueblood’s eyes widened before becoming cold as he sneered at Josh.

“I’d rather dine with my fellow pony than some weird looking creature that resembles an uneducated monkey.” Josh snickered and shook his head, pulling out his phone and browsing his documents on it while ignoring any further banter between the princesses and the prince. A few moments later, Josh looked up and watched as Blueblood stormed out of the dining hall. Shaking his head, he glanced towards Princess Celestia and Luna.

“I apologize for my appearance disturbing your... Nephew.” Josh said. Luna shook her head as Princess Celestia spoke up.

“There is no need for your apology, Josh. The Prince has been in need of some... Growing up. He acts incredibly immature for his age.” Josh ran a hand through his hair, sighing before glancing around the table in front of him. The food was, as Josh would have guessed, covered with plates of vegetarian food. From simple grass and oats to large beautifully made salads and sandwiches.

As Josh frowned, he felt a nudge to his side and looked up to see Luna eyeing him. “You know...” She began. “This food isn’t just for my sister and I. Feel free to take what you wish and add it to your plate.” Josh nodded his thanks to the Lunar Princess and concentrated on levitating a plate of salad over to himself.

“Basic Levitation... And you’ve only had magic for how long, Josh?” Princess Celestia asked.

“Well..” Josh began, taking a drink of water from a glass beside his plate. “Technically just two days... But I practiced with Princess Luna in a lucid dream environment a couple of times this past week as well while I was undergoing my changes.” Celestia nodded and took a drink from her own glass.

“I’m sure you would like to know about what my sister and I found out about the mare that was brought in last night?” Celestia asked, receiving a nod from Josh. The princess sighed and shook her head. “Unfortunately nothing... As soon as my magic touched her, her mind was wiped completely clean. No warning or anything.” Josh’s eyes widened at this news.

“But it was your magic specifically?” He asked. Celestia nodded, frowning.

“Somepony knew that my sister would try to look through her mind if she was ever captured by us and put a safeguard up to prevent a mind reading...” Luna muttered, poking her own salad with a fork that she was levitating. “She is currently in a mental ward, babbling like an idiot.” Josh frowned and took a bite of his own salad.

“Thats a shame... It seemed that the only thing she had against me was that I was connected to Connor in some way. And why that threw her for a loop... Well I guess we won't know now will we?” Luna shook her head as she finally lifted her own fork and took another bite. Josh chewed on his own salad for a moment before frowning and looking over the table. “Do you happen to have any salad dressing? No offense but it tastes a little bland without it.” Celestia raised an eyebrow before looking to her sister who shrugged.

“I’m not sure what this... Salad Dressing is... But we have this sauce that someponies put on their salads. I have never seen the appeal, but you may like it.” Celestia said as she levitated a dish with some creamy orange liquid in it. Taking it in his hand, Josh lifted it and took a sniff. Blinking, he grinned widely.

“You have italian dressing? That is awesome! Lets see if it tastes like what we have at home.” Celestia and Luna watched curiously as Josh poured a bit over his salad and picked up his fork. Taking a bite, he shut his eyes and smiled as he chewed. “Oh, just like home.. Maybe a bit sweeter than what I’m used to, but it may as well be perfect.” Luna laughed lightly at Josh’s reaction.

“It is good to know that you like it, Josh.” Luna said, taking a drink from her glass. Josh stared at his plate for a moment before looking up at the Princesses.

“I guess we should discuss the most important matter then..” He said, frowning. Celestia raised an eyebrow as she sat her fork down.

“And what would that be, Josh?” Celestia asked curiously. Josh blinked and shook his head.

“Oh I’m sure you know, Princess. What exactly is it that you sent Twilight to do in the Crystal Empire?” He asked, prodding his salad with a fork. Levitating a napkin up to her lips, Celestia sighed and set it aside.

“The Crystal Empire has been banished for the past thousand or so years... It recently reappeared and the one who banished it also returned.” Celestia stated calmly. “I sent my student and her friends there to assist Princess Cadence and her husband Shining Armor with restoring the Crystal Empire to it’s former glory.” Josh frowned, nodding as Celestia continued. “I actually expect them to activate what is known as the ‘Crystal Heart’ which will act as a protecting force against King Sombra’s dark power. Once it becomes active he will be banished once again.” Running a hand through his hair, Josh sighed.

“And you believe that they won't run into any troubles?” Celestia smiled at Josh, chuckling lightly.

“Of course they will, that is why it is a test that I’m sending them on. If they can do it then...” Celestia and Luna exchanged glances between each other, nodding. “Then we can say that the test was a success.”

“I see..” Josh muttered as he finished the last bit of his salad. “I’m sure whatever is going on, you two only have their best interests in mind.” He stretched and let out a yawn. “Oh wow, didn’t even notice how tired I was getting, we’ve been chatting for awhile, haven’t we?” Luna nodded, smiling.

“Yes we have. Now I think it’d be best if you headed to bed for the night. We will speak more tomorrow.” Luna said as Celestia nodded in agreement. Josh slowly stood up and bowed to the two princesses.

“Then I bid you two, adieu.” Spinning around, Josh’s long coat billowed out behind him as he stuck his hands in it’s pockets and left the dining room. Outside of the dining hall, Dawn watched him close the doors with a raised eyebrow.

“So I take it you didn’t make a total idiot of yourself? I saw Prince Blueblood storm out and nearly ran in to see what it exactly was that you did to cause such malice from the Prince.” Dawn said as she began to walk Josh back to his room.

“No, apparently my physical appearance is revolting to him and therefore he refused to eat at the same table as me.” Josh said calmly as Dawn paused mid-stride.

“Is that really what happened?” She asked as she looked at him curiously. When Josh nodded, she placed a hoof over her face and sighed. “As much as I want to call you a liar, I know that the Prince can be quite... Rude at times.” Josh nodded in agreement as they approached his door. “Once more, if you need anything let me know, I will be standing guard for the next hour before heading to bed myself when my replacement arrived to cover for me for the night.”

“Well.. I guess this is goodnight then, Miss Dawn.” Josh said as he opened the door to his room.

“Yep, goodnight...” Dawn muttered as she turned around and faced the hallway.

Josh walked over to the desk and took his phone out of his pocket, and placing it in one of the drawers. Taking his coat off, he folded it up and placed it on the chair. As he finished undressing, he crawled into bed and closed his eyes to sleep. Suddenly as he began to drift off, a soft buzzing noise filled the room.

“No... It can’t be..” Josh muttered as he turned over and saw the drawer of the desk light up. “It’s probably just acting up... I’ll have to check it in the morning. Turning over, he closed his eyes once more and drifted off to sleep.

Author's Notes:

Sorry for the month long delay everyone... Bunch of RL stuff happened and... Yeah I'll post one last blog concerning it. In other news, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, I'll have chapter 8 up HOPEFULLY by next week monday. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. :) If you like the story and haven't thumbs up'd it yet, please feel free to do so! And if you don't like it, please at least state as to why before thumbing it down.

~Kyllier

Editors note: WHAT THE HECK IS THE PHONE DOIN!?!??!? D= Darn it Ky! -Crystalline