So I didn’t sleep as well as I had hoped. Once again I was plagued with nightmares though they didn't feel like a dream either. The questions kept running around my head as I woke up for the third time that night. Twilight was still fast asleep with Spike in his smaller bed. I let out a sigh and got out of bed. A quick flick of magic later and I had the covers laid over the coat. I may as well go read something to pass the time. Once I was a few steps down, carefully making sure I placed a hoof softly on each step, I lit my horn and trotted the rest of the way down. I was one hell of a reader when you caught my attention on a subject. Magic, weapons, and dragons were my biggest fascinations, but it didn't mean I didn't enjoy other subjects as well. Especially here in Equestria were a lot of that was real, hell even I could use magic. Granted my limited spells was nothing compared to what Twilight or even the princess must know. I pulled over a book at random and found it a bit interesting.

“The Legend of Blood Ruby” The title read. A few flips of the pages told me the subject of the book. It was about the first vampire. It seems that Blood Ruby had the misfortune to run into a plant that was called poison joke. It took about three days for the magic to work it's way through him. This seemed to have happened not too long after Equestria's founding by the three pony races. Being a unicorn himself, the old magic that he knew and the magic from this poison joke transformed him into the first vampire after some blood sucker joke. It seems Blood Ruby was a banker. I had heard some times that bankers, especially the really dirt bag ones being called blood sucker. It kind of made me wonder if Blood Ruby was one. He took to his thrust really fast and the town of Hoofshire was drained within weeks Celestia and Luna went to deal with Bloody Ruby and some kind of battle was held between the two royal sisters and the vampire. The Elements of Harmony were used to seal him away in a crystal coffin. The book said the crystal coffin was moved into the ruins of an old castle well before the construction of the castle of the pony sisters. This was believable especially since Twilight and everyone had faced Chao itself, a spirit of a long dead pony, and befriended an old ruler of Equestria itself. This legend must have some truth to it. It was like the legends of Bigfoot or the Loch Ness monster from back home; they had to have some truth. I placed the book back and went for another one, before I started to hear the chirping of birds outside. The sun was slowly starting to rise in the distance. I may as well cook breakfast. Several minutes passed as I went to town in Twilight's kitchen.

“What smells so good?” Twilight said in a groggy voice.

“That would be breakfast Twilight.” I said as I placed a plate of Hay Bacon. Which took me some time to wrap my head around that. Next to it was two scrambled eggs, couldn't make sunny side up to save my soul and of course toast. I floated over the butter, silverware, a glass of orange juice, and a mug of coffee with the cream and sugar of course.

“Why are you making breakfast?” Twilight asked with a yawn before she pulled up the mug of coffee towards her.

“Because I could.” I said partly being truthful. It was that and I couldn't sleep really.

“That was nice of you.” She said with a smile. I sat another plate down for Spike. It was filled with the same was Twilight. My plate on the other hand didn't have the eggs. Spike came in rubbing his eyes as he took spot at the table. I cleaned up a little and turned off the stove before I sat down and ate with them. It was nice to sit around a table and eat. I floated the plates over to the sink and started to clean them.

“So what do we have planned for today?” I asked, Spike looked at me a bit confused but shrugs it off.

“Well I was thinking we could go find Rainbow Dash and have her help you fly.” She said. “Close to the ground.” She corrected as she must have seen my face pale like it did.

“Um... I guess?” I weakly replied.

“Oh come on Firestorm. Since I've known you. You have not tried to fly once.” She said.

“Well technically I did.” I defended

“That was in your mind so it doesn't count.” Twilight deadpanned. Of course she did get me on that one. Me being the sneaky pony that I was I couldn't help but go right up to her calmly. She looked up at me still adamant about me flying. “Well?” She said. I kissed her. A bit of a blush later she pointedly slap me. Not hard but it stung enough to get the point across. “Don't think that just because I like you doesn't mean you're getting out of learning how to fly mister.” She said almost in a strict motherly tone. I could help but smile as I rubbed my cheek.

“Twilight I do plan to learn how to fly. I’m just scared is all. Ever since I was young I had a fear of heights. I wasn't always a drony .”

“Well you are now so you should be safe from the falling problem.” She pointed out.

“Yeah unless Rainbow decides to stick me on a cloud again and drop me without warning before I know how to recover.” I pointed out rubbing the back of my head. I could still feel that impact.

“Come to think about it. Why do you want me to fly anyway?” I asked her. “Not to be rude but I thought only alicorns and pegasi could walk on clouds?”

“Well normally you would be right. That was until I found a cloud walking spell.” Twilight answered.

“Oh, that makes sense.” I said.

“You know I should probably learn some more spells.” I said now thinking about it.

“I could teach you if you want.” She said with a beaming smile.

“That would be great Twilight.” I replied now smiling myself. To be honest, I hated my limited knowledge of spells. The only spells I know was from Shadowstorm and from the beginners book I used to own. I reached over with my magic and opened the door. “After you Miss Twilight Sparkle.” I said with a bow. She giggled and walked passed. I turned to Spike for a moment “Want to come with?” I asked.

“Nah, you two have fun. Just treat her right.” He said in the stern tone.

“Spike, what kind of stallion do you take me for?” I asked, partly feeling insulted and partly curious.

“I know you're a good stallion with problems. I just don't want to see Twilight get hurt is all.” He said in a defensive tone.

“I can't fault you for that. But remember if she does get hurt. She would probably fire me to the moon herself or Shining Armor would turn me into a practice dummy for his troops. I would say you would roast me alive but fire doesn't bother me. Oh speaking of which I did want to know something.” I said not focusing from the whole protective assistant thing.

“What's that?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Mind teaching me that whole send letters thing later?” I asked.

“Sure, why not.”

“Thanks, It just makes it easier for me since well. I can do the same.” I got out before a belched out a plum fire that turned into a small bag of coins and a letter.

“Wow you really get letters like I do.” He said a bit surprised.

“Yeah, kind of annoying at times.”

“True that.”

“Do you want to read it?”

“Nah, it's your letter.”

“What's taking you so long?” Twilight said coming back in.

“Oh he just got a letter Twilight.” Spike said cutting me off from saying pretty much the same thing.

“Well what does it say?” She asked now as I floated up the letter to me.

Dear Prince Firestorm,
I do realize that since your house went up in flames yesterday that most likely your bits are gone as well. So I have sent you some to replace the lost ones as well as to let you know that you will be receiving a small amount each week. Please treat this like an allowance yp help you make ends meat. We also added a bit more then normal as a late birthday gift.
Signed.
Your Aunt Celestia.
P.S. Luna will be over with in the next few days to talk to you about something.

“Well that is um... honestly, I don't know how to take that.” I said conflicted. I never really had bits to my name before the fire. So it was not really right for her to replace something I never really had in the first place.

“Well I think it's nice honestly. Spike and I receive a payment like that as well. Spike mainly being my assistant and me being the princess's student.” Twilight explained. I really didn't feel right about this. I floated it over to Twilight.

“Here.”I simply said. She looked at me in confusion. “Since I'm staying and all.”

“Firestorm you don't have to help.” She said.

“But since I'm going to live here I want to help, though I don’t know how long that will be.” I said there was a note of sadness in her eyes when I said that. It felt like she didn't like the idea of me going.

“Will you please keep it? For me?” She said, she gave me the cutest set of puppy dog eyes. Not fair, Twilight Sparkle, not fair.

“Alright just for you.” I said with defeat in my voice.

“She's got you whipped.” Spike said as both Twilight and I turned red.

“Spike!” We both shot back. He ran away before we could scold him for that comment. I nervously chuckled at that.

“You don't think I... um do that do you?” Twilight timidly asked. This caught me by surprise. I turned to her.

“Why would you think that?”

“Well um... what Spike said... and...” She trailed off.

“And?”

“Well you seem to well go along with what I do.” She said.

“Because I want to honestly. It's not like I'm just playing follow the leader here Twilight. I still have very little knowledge about Equestria. I still need to get used to it all. You know a lot more then I will probably ever know. Of course it's not just my lack of knowledge that makes me want to follow a pretty mare such as yourself.” I said with a blush to the end looking away. Then realize where that could derail to. “In the clean way.” I corrected before I would get slapped again. Honestly I did deserve the first one. Maybe this one to knowing my luck.

“I wasn't going to insinuate that um... last part.” She said as red as a tomato.

“Twi are you trying to get him into your room or something? Because you already have done that.” Dash said from the door. I couldn't help but jump and Twi squeaked and with a flash was gone.

“Rainbow Dash.” I groaned.

“What? Was it something I said?” She said with a shrug. Honestly I probably would have bopped her on the head for that. If I wasn't afraid she could stick me in a cloud and leave me there to starve... A winged animal starves because it couldn't get out of the air.

“Dash, Why did you do that?” I asked more annoyed with her now.

“Oh come on. I know what you stallions all think about.” Dash said with a smirk. My look went from annoyed to outright angry.

“What kind of stallion do you thank me for Rainbow Dash?!” I said as I raised my voice.

“Dude relax.” She said defensively.

“Relax? Dash you just embarrassed Twilight like that and you want me to relax? No, Dash I won't relax. I honestly feel offended that you thought I would simply go with that.” I said now starting to get angry.

“Firestorm, I was just teasing you two. I didn't mean anything by it. Let me make it up to you.” She rapidly back peddled. I grind my teeth in my closed mouth as I tried not to bite her head off any more than I already had.

“I will think about it Dash. Right now I have to find Twilight to make sure she is alright.”I said before I headed up stairs. Her door was locked. I gave the door three solid raps.

“Please leave me alone.” Twilight said behind the door.

“Twilight it's me.” I said.

“Firestorm please just leave me alone right now.” She continued the sadness in her voice present. I had a feeling she felt bad because of what Dash said. Part of me wanted to buck Dash, but I wouldn't, she was my friend, as well as Twilight's.

“Alright Twilight. If you need me I’ll be downstairs. Do you want me to send Spike up?” I asked.

“Please.” She said.

“Alright, and if it matters. I’m sorry Twilight.” I said before I retreated downstairs. Depression present on my face.

“She up there?” Dash said.

“Yes and she is upset.” I said as I came down the last step looking behind me.

“Spike.” I yelled for him before he came out of the door.

“Yes?” He said as he poked his head out of the kitchen.

“Twilight would like you to go up to her. She is in her room.”

“What happened?” He asked, worry plastered on his face.

“Some pony said something to Twilight and got her upset.” I said with a bit more venom in my voice then I should.

“Look, I'm sorry I didn't mean to make her upset.” She defended.

“I think you should apologize.” I said before I went into the kitchen. Spike ran past me and up the stairs.

“Please let me make this up to you.” She almost pleaded.

“Dash I don't know what you could do to make up for upsetting Twilight like that.” I said as I got a glass of water. Dash did look upset at what she did and part of me wanted to forgive her but it wasn't me who needed to forgive her. It was Twilight. I got the joke myself, I didn't find the joke funny but I got it.

“I know. I shouldn't have opened my mouth like that.”

“Look I think you should go try and apologize to Twilight, okay?” I said then turned to Rainbow Dash. She nodded and head up the stairs. I let a sigh as I run my metallic fingers through my mane. After everything that had happened Dash just had to say something like that. I trotted over to one of the bookcases as I scanned through the titles. Nothing really jumped out at me. More like I just feel numb to the world. Until I started to hear noise from upstairs.

“Get out, get out, get out!” Twilight said with the last get out extremely loudly. Then a prismatic blur flew down the stairs as I watched the blur was followed by my bed. As it came down it fell apart into a crumbled heap of wood, metal, and a mattress. I went over and started to clean it up.

“I've never seen Twilight that angry before.” Dash said hovering in the air. I promptly kept my mouth shut. A wise man once said an open mouth causes more problems the a closed one. I floated the mattress over into the middle of the floor and slowly tried to lift up the rest in my magic. One dull throb later I had all that was left of the bed in a trash can ready to go outside. Dash left shortly after that afraid for when Twilight came down. Can't blame her really after throwing a bed at your friend I’d be scared too. Spike came down with worry still plastered on his face.

“How is she?” I asked.

“She is pretty upset.” He said as I couldn't help but feel a bit responsible for this.

“Sorry Spike.” I said he turned to me.

“What are you sorry for? It was Dash that said something.”

“Well if I didn't make my feeling known like I did then Dash wouldn't have any reason to say that.” I said as I opened the door carefully and slide the can out. That was when I was accosted by a pink party pony who was now pinning me to the ground and grinning at me. I'm not going to lie her smile with her on top of me like that kind of creeps me out. She was like a hunter about to dig into her prey.

“Um... hi Pinkie.” Spike said as he looked over at the two of us. Me with confused and scared look on my face.

“Hiya you two. How’s it going?” Pinkie said before she bounced off me and landing in one of the chairs perfectly.

“Not too good honestly.” I said.

“What's wrong? Oh did your evil twin take some super powerful artifact that hasn't been seen in over two hundred years and place it in his hidden base in a mountain somewhere no pony would ever think to look at because it is suppose to be haunted but we all know ghosts aren’t real? Its superstitious like how Twilight first thought that curses were fake, until the poison joke happened and her horn got all floppy, my tongue got super big, Dash couldn't fly right and crashed into everypony, we had Flutterguy, and a tiny but super cute looking Applejack about the same size as a foals toy. We, of course, went into the Everfree and found out it was a joke and Twilight learned to never judge a book by the cover, now Zecora sells some of her herbs to Aloe and Lotus at the Ponyville spa that you should totally go to and relax because you are always so high strung. Have you met Derpy? I think she is super fun to be around, what am I talking, you met her when I invited her to your sleepover and her and her daughters Dinky and Star went to your birthday that you had, but it got crashed because of those mean changelings. Speaking of which I am here to invite you, Twilight, and Spike to the make up birthday, birthday party I will be having tomorrow at sugar cube corner. Have you been there? It's a really great place to be. What am I thinking? You have been there, there I go being a silly filly again What’s wrong with you and Twilight?” She went on in one flipping breath. My brain on the other hoof was still about six topic changes back and still wrapping around a tiny Applejack.

“What?” I asked as I could only guess was smoke coming out of my ears from my brain frying from too much levels of Pinkie.

“What's wrong with you and Twilight?” She repeated.

“Oh well... she's upset about something said, I didn't say it but it's got her really upset. I haven't talked to her besides when she said she was wanting to be left alone.” I said not really telling much. I didn't want to rat out Rainbow Dash to Pinkie.

“She is upstairs. Maybe you can get her to come down?” Spike said before a pink blur shot past me causing me to spin probably a good 1080. Then followed by me hitting the ground with a flop. “You alright?” Spike said as he stood over me.

“Yeah but Spike why am I in a spin cycle?” I said as the room was still spinning to me before I laid my head down more and closed my eyes. Sometimes that pink ball of energy could really drive me nuts. But still she was my friend and I can't fault her for being her I guess.

“Um... Firestorm could you come up here.” Pinkie said in a very un-Pinkie way. She sounded... normal. Something was wrong, really wrong if Pinkie wasn't being Pinkie around me. I got up and shook my head a bit to get rid of the dizziness.

“Sure, give me a moment. I'm waiting for the buzzer so I know the spin cycle is done.” I joked as everything stopped spinning. “And there it is.”I said as I made my way to the stairs. I slowly made my way up to the door. It was opened a crack and I could see both Pinkie and Twilight on the bed in Twilight's loft. I gulped quietly before I quietly shut the door behind me and went up the small set of stairs. “You alright Twilight?” I worriedly asked.

“Sorry.” She said not looking at me. She was in Pinkie's chest as Pinkie was gently rubbing Twilight's back.

“Twilight you did nothing wrong. If anything it's my fault.” I said as Pinkie looked up at me a little confused for once. Did I just confuse the paradox perplexing pink party pony? I know I was going to get smited for that at some point.

“How is it your fault when Dash was the one that said those things.” She said into Pinkie's chest.

“Because I feel responsible for it. I didn't stop her from saying it.” I said as I gently placed a hoof on Twilight's back. She went a little ridged at my touch. I couldn't blame her really. “I care for you Twilight. I never want to see you hurt. If it makes you feel better you could hit me.” I offered slightly joking but I didn't let my tone come across like that.

“Why would I do that?” She said as she turned to look at me her eyes red and puffy. She was crying at what Dash said. It didn't help my anger towards her at the moment but I just set that aside for now.

“Because it may help you feel better.” I offered again.

“But you've been through so much pain. Why would I cause more?” She said as she looked up at me.

“Twilight you don't have to worry about hurting me. If it make you feel better in anyway. I will take anything for you.”I said as I gently wrapped my hooves around her and held her close. Pinkie slowly backed off from Twilight. She continued to cry into my coat as Pinkie looked at me. For some reason her looked ask if she could go. I gently nodded as Pinkie gently moved away from Twilight and towards the door. I watched carefully as Pinkie left letting the door shut with a soft click. We sat there for a bit before Twilight finally said something else.

“You don't think horribly of me do you?” She asked.

“Why would I think such a thing Twilight?” I asked.

“Because what Dash-” She started before I cut her off.

“She said that as a joke Twilight. I know it was a really bad joke and it came across mean spirited. But I don't think she was meaning to hurt you like she did.” I said.

“That didn't answer my question though.” She said.

“Twilight Sparkle.” I started as I got her to look right into the eyes. “I do not think of you as some horrible pony. In fact I think of you as a loving caring mare. One that I would love to be around every second of every moment. Twilight you know I love you right?” I said as she looked up at me and nodded slowly. “Then don't ever think that I think horribly of you. Honestly I wouldn't be surprised that you think that of me.” This of course got a look of surprise from Twilight.

“Oh dear Celestia. No!” she said before she pounced me onto her bed now pinning me down. “I would never think such of thing of you Firestorm. You make me feel better and...” She trailed off looking away with a blush now. She was so adorable when she blushed like that. “You are the kind of stallion that just knows the right thing to say when I feel like I messed up.” She said then returned her gaze to me. “I don't know why but I feel so safe around you.” She said before she blushed a moment.

“Because, Twilight, I am your shield.” I said as I gently brought her close to me to hold her. “No pun intended but I am your knight in shining armor. I will make sure your safe regardless of what happens.” I said as she gently nuzzled into my chest. I couldn't help but smile as I watched the lavender ball of arcane energy just melt into my chest, figuratively of course. I expand my wings and wrapped us up in them. She blushed a bit and looked up at me.

“Please don't do that.” She said before I pulled my wings back.

“Sorry.” I stumbled. I guess I just screwed up.

“It's kind of you to do that to make me feel safe. But um... I'm not ready for that.” She said nervously. Wait...What! Twilight what are you insinuating there? My eye's shot wide at that comment. She must of caught my look. “You weren't... with the... oh dear...” she said as she now turned even redder than she was a few moments ago. Damn she was so cute when she blushed but if I wasn't sure that red wasn't physically possible in the color spectrum. I would think I found a new favorite color. “Sorry I keep forgetting that you don't know all the um... private things when it comes to... oh Celestia.” she stumbled over her words. I on the other hoof started to panic. From what I could piece together Twilight thought I was trying to get her into bed.

“I am so sorry Twilight. I didn't mean to do that. I just wanted to make you feel safe around me and now look what I did.” I said as I got way from Twilight after she got off me. “I am so, so sorry. I was just. I mean I know you're not ready and I know I'm not ready, I just.” Before I could think I panicked and cast the blink spell to the front of library's door. I then booked it at a full gallop before I could even hear Twilight. I just went from consoling Twilight to making a move on her like she was some cheap flossy. She must think of me some other worldly pervert that just came here to cause problems and get with mares. I continued to run pass every pony. Not even to stop to talk to Applejack who started to chase after me shortly after I passed. She was hot on my tail. She then reached over and bit my tail grinding me to a stop.

“Whoa there sugar cube, what's got you all riled up.” She asked through a mouth full of my tail. My brain on the other hand was still having me running because I tried my hardest to get away.

“I screwed up big time.” I said as I tried to get away. Granted the pain in my tail was growing as I tried to get away.

“Sugar cube you need to calm down and tell me what happened.” She said still with my tail in her mouth.

“What?” I pretended not to make out what she said.

“Calm down.” She said a little louder.

“I can't make out what your saying.” I said as I really hoped she would fall for this trick and let go. Oh she let go of course but not before she pulled out her lasso and had me hogged tied. Clever move there Applejack. Now I thought I could get out of it but that was Big Mac came over and put a hoof on me pinning me. Damn it, the Apples beat me. I sighed quietly.

“Okay Firestorm explain what happened and why you screwed up?” She asked as she looked down at me.

“Well I just um... made a stupid move when Twilight was upset and now I just.” I said before continue.

“What is going on over here?” Rarity said as I started to panic more. What would her friends think of me. Hell they were my friends. Would they still be my friends after this? I really wish Applejack didn't stop me like that.

“Something's got this boy all riled up and I'm fixing to find out what.” Applejack said to Rarity.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said as he looked at me. I shrank back from his gaze.

“Now spill it sugarcube. What happened?” Applejack said now in view with Rarity as I continued to shrink from their gazes.

“I...” I started as I started to tear up. “I'm sorry.” I shot out before I blinked again a few feet away. I shot up and went full gallop towards the park. Rainbow Dash just had to be in front of me. I charged up my horn and blinked passed her towards the park with Applejack, Big Mac, Rarity chasing after me.

“Dash! Stop that stallion!” Applejack said. Rainbow Dash looked confused then took to the air and flew after me.

“Firestorm please stop.” Dash said as she flew next to me. I took a sharp turn and head down another path. The all turned and I blinked down the path behind them. They all looked confused for a moment as I galloped way.

“He went that way.” Applejack yelled. I really wish I knew how to fly at this point because then I would only have Rainbow Dash to worry about catching me. I continued into the woods. Running down the path more and more. I chanced a look to see Dash diving towards me. Blinked to the right more as she hit the ground and fell back.

“Big Mac get ready.” Applejack said as she pulled out her lasso again.

“Eeyup.” He replied followed by Applejack jumping onto his back and with her tail started to swing around her lasso into the air. She then threw it at me as I jumped. I dodged it but I jumped too soon to make the jump over the river. I fell right into the rivers water as it swept me down the stream. I dived into the water more and used my wings to paddle me down it faster.

“After him Big Mac.” Applejack said as I heard the splash behind me. I turned to see him flying down the stream. I couldn't help but dive more and try to literally fly down the stream. I found it pretty easy to maneuver in the water. I figured that I was more for fire then water. Wait... Fire! I turned my head and started to breath out all my breath into fire. It propelled me down the water. I even started to skip down the water like a tossed stone. I was getting ahead until a cyan hoof grabbed my tail from the air and jerked me into the sky. They got me... again. Rainbow Dash deposited me onto a cloud where she knew I couldn't escape. Why couldn't these ponies just leave me alone to sort things out.

“Okay tell me what happened?” Dash said in my face. I gulped from her gaze as well. Since the roles had reversed now and she was angry at me. Wait a minute. I have wings I may not know how to fly but maybe I could... That is just crazy enough to work.

“Sorry Dash.” I said before I stomped onto the cloud as it dissipated under me. I regretted that move as soon as I did it, I instantly started to free fall. I closed my eyes and spread my wings as I could feel the wind rushing them. The air lifted me and I started to glide down. If I could get closer to the ground then maybe I could at least survive the drop to get away. Dash was surprised by my moment of sudden stupid bravery but snapped out of it and took off at me. Luckily she put me right above the lake near Fluttershy's house. I closed my wings and dived as I fought every moment of panic running right through me. I started to feel my heart race as I dived bombed towards the ground. I needed to focus maybe my more dragon like state could help me survive my now impending doom. I felt the heat radiate through me as my tail changed and I could feel my feathers retract. My wings became more dragon like as the world around me turned a slight shade of red. I felt my hair become warmer. I could see the fur on my left hoof turn into scales and my claws start to appear from it.

“Get back here.” Dash said behind me. I started to pull my body in using my forelegs and created a triangle to help pick up speed. It was then I felt something different like a resistance more than normal from the air itself. Like it wanted to push me back like a spring board. It was short lived because before I knew it I cut right into the water like a hot knife through butter. It didn't hurt surprisingly. It was like an arrow being fired into water. I curved and slowed down almost instantly. I gently fell to the bottom of the water. It feels weird being down here like it was natural to be here. The water muffled all the sound but I could see the rainbow trail of Rainbow Dash swoop up to avoid hitting the water itself. I held my breath but...I could breathe underwater. I'm part fish now? That was so many levels of screwed up. I looked up at Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Big Mac, Fluttershy who I can't even figure out where she came from. Wait... that's right this lake was by her house wasn't it? What was I thinking?! I just did the most stupidest move of stupid-dom in the city of stupi-opulous. I really hope someone puts me down before I do something that stupid again.

“Twilight” I said with a sigh underwater. “Why did I do something so stupid?” I said as I stared up at the sun ripping through the water of the lake. My tail swished in the water as I just sat there watching all the sediments of the water just float and resettle on the bottom. It was about then I noticed the tap behind me. I almost flew out of the water right there because Twilight Sparkle was behind me. I gulped and shrank back from her. She, of course, stopped me with a sudden poof of magic and was on top of me pinning me again.

“Don't even think of running away like that.” She said and I couldn't help but gulp.

“Sorry.” I timidly said. “How are you...” I started to ask before she cut me off.

“Water breathing and Aquatic talking spells.” She answered. The amount of spells she knew was amazing. “Look I'm sorry.” She started.

“No Twilight I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done what I did. I... I just wanted to comfort you not... not make a move on you like that.”I said as my shame dripped from every word.

“You did but I just...” She started then sighed. “I forgot you weren't from here when you put your wings around me. Pegasi normally do that to show dominance over their other when it comes to um... bed things.” She explained as my heart sank. Did she think I owned her when I did that. “I didn't like that thought and I thought you knew about it from reading. I panicked when you did that and thought that maybe you wanted to you know.” She went on.

“Twilight, I just wanted to wrap my wings around you like a safety blanket. I didn't mean for it to come across like that. I feel like such and idiot.” I said now looking down at the bottom of the lake.

“Firestorm you are not an idiot. You're the sweetest and gentlest drony I know. You’re willing to get hurt just to protect me and my friends. No other pony is willing to do it at such a level you do.” She said as she wrapped her forelegs around me and hugged me. “I never felt so safe around any other pony.” She continued “I just wish I wasn't so nervous about messing it up with you to see that sometimes.”

“Twilight I'm just as nervous as you are. Because I don't want to lose you.” I said as I returned the embrace I could hear a crowd of aws come from above the water but I didn't care. I think we could have stayed there longer if the world around me didn't start to turn all fuzzy. “Twilight.” I got out as I started to slowly dip to the side.

“Hmm?” She said before she looked up at me which was now followed by a series of “Oh no, oh no, oh no's” from the lavender mare. With a flash of purple I felt the water around me just drop way and I hit the ground with a thud. I could hear around me but the world was fuzzed. I reached out as I saw a red blur turn orange. I think it was my coat turning from scales back to fur. I felt cold, I think I was shivering but I couldn't tell.

“Fluttershy get some towels, Dash go with her.” Twilight yelled. “Storm stay with me.” She yelled at me as I heard flapping in the distance.

“Okay but I feel so sleepy.” I said as I felt like the weight of the world was on my eyelids. “Do not fall asleep on me.” She said before some rapid movements caused me to jolt awake.

“These were the only ones we could find.”Fluttershy said as I felt something fuzzy press into my wet coat.

“Girls help me dry him.” Twilight said as my eyes started to droop again. “Firestorm please you need to stay awake.”

“But Twilight I feel so tired. Just let me close my eyes at least.” I yawned.

“If you sleep there's no telling if you will wake up again.” She said as she shook me violently. “How many times did you say he teleported?” Twilight said.

“We didn't keep track, we were chasing him. He used it at least five times, maybe more Twi.” Applejack said.

“Not good.” Twilight said.

“Why what's wrong? You teleport all the time.” Dash said.

“Well because I am trained to use that spell. I have a larger pool of magic then he does. I figured he could handle the stress that spell causes but I think mix that with his panicked state and being a drony. I don't think his body was ready for it.” She said as I started to feel drier.

“What's happening to him then dear?” Rarity asked.

“His body is running low on magic.” She said panicking.

“Oh dear. That is not good.” Rarity added.

“Could somepony please explain why that is bad?” Applejack asked.

“Because normally every pony has magic. You, me, Fluttershy, Dash, every pony. We need it to live. The problem with unicorns that their magic can be used to dangerous levels. Normally the first warning signs of this is a bloody nose and a headache but if pushed too far with a fatigued body it could put either the unicorn into a coma or worse.” Twilight explained, “Blink is one of the harder spells to master and beginners can only do maybe one or two a day. As far as I know he’s only used it once before with me back at his old house. Since then I don't think he has tried the spell. So his body wasn't ready for the stress the spell puts on its owner. I can do it because I have practiced and built up to the point I barely need any magic to cast it.” She went on to explain.

“So chasing him around making him use that spell so much drained his batteries?” Applejack asked. Good way to over simplify it Applejack. I felt a pang in my head from that thought but I shook it away. My head felt like Pinkie Pie just took a drilldozer to my skull running on jet fuel. Which was terrifying to think about.

“Yes now lets flip him over and get the other side.” Twilight said as I felt myself getting rolled over by a big red blob. I guess Big Mac just made it simple for them. I felt a cold chill run down my body as the wind blew right across the wet parts of my fur.

“You still with me Firestorm.” Twilight said as I looked at the purple blob above me.

“Yes.” I said simply before my eyes started to droop again.

“Don't fall asleep on me.” Twilight pleaded with me. Maybe I could just close my eyes for a moment.

“Twilight do you think you could keep him up long enough. I have an idea.” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I think so. But what are you planning?” Twilight asked before I felt a slap across my face. That hurt. Damn she does know how to keep the pimp hoof strong.

“You'll see.” Dash said before she took off. To where I couldn't tell.

“Twilight.” I said.

“Yes Firestorm.” She said as a giant wall of purple filled my eyes.

“Sorry.”

“Sorry for what?”

“Sorry for being such a big pain in the flank.” I said with a little chuckle.

“You're not a big pain. Maybe a moderate, but not big.” She joked back.

“Alright. Then sorry for being a moderate pain in the flank.” I quipped back. She laughed slightly.

“In danger of going into a coma and you can still joke. You amaze me at times.”

“Never said I was normal.”

“Move Twilight.” Dash yelled from somewhere above.

“What?” Twilight said as the wall of purple moved away to a bright blue sky. “Dash don't!” she yells. But she wasn't fast enough because within a second I heard the clap of thunder and a bright light. I literally just got a jump start from a rainbow maned cyan pony. I felt like a kid at a candy store with an all you can eat pass and every sweet is genetic enhanced sugar that makes kids run on rocket fuel. Then mix in some caffeine and a Pinkie Pie level of energy. Besides that I also felt pain, a lot of pain. But I shot up and looked around with everything in focus. I shot my head up in an instant and looked around. “Firestorm?” Twilight asked. I turned my face to her and she jumped a bit.

“Yes?” I asked.

“Are you alright?”

“Yeah I'm good.” I said as I blinked. I could make out almost every hair of her fur and mane it was well... different for once. “I just feel... charged.”

“Okay that was a bad pun.” Applejack groaned.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac added.

“Um... If you excuse me for a moment I have something to take care of.” I said as I stood up.

“What's that?” Twilight asked.

“Just something. Be back in a flash.” I said then took off, almost literally. I was in front of the ashes and remains of my old house. With my magic I started to shift through all the ash, it didn't take me long to find what I was looking for. I found the wooden case that my sword was in, still intact surprisingly. Then I noticed a small ripple of magic around the case. I guess they thought it best to enchant the case with some kind of spell. Then I found the Star Amethyst that I had made for a gift for Twilight. I floated them next to me as I saw something different happen. My normal fire like magic looked like a Tesla coil. Thats weird, I’ll have to ask Twilight about it later. I arrived to the library a moment later after I placed the Star Amethyst in the case with my sword. My magic covered the handle with the same sparks as I opened the door to a surprised looking Spike.

“Um... hey Firestorm. You alright?” He asked me.

“Never better why?” I asked.

“Because your horn is sparking like Twilight's Tesla coil.” I thought about it for a moment. Where would Twilight have a tesla coil?

“Where does Twilight have the Tesla coil?”

“In her lab downstairs, let me show you.” he said before he turned around and headed towards a door. I zipped over to him.”

“Dude you are like super fast. What happened?”

“I don't know I just remember this flash of light and then some really weird stuff started to happen.”

“Weird?”

“Getting to places I want to go super fast without using magic.” I said as Spike opened the door. I flew down the winding steps to Twilight's lab and I was amazed at the levels of tech she had around the house, she even had a computer. I could help but squee at it, I placed my case down and my metallic hoof brushed over the keys. It looked like it ran on a pony version of dos called Ponss. I started to fly through all the text files and it seems Twilight liked to do experiments, with very extensive notes, she made a digital copies of all her written notes just in case she lost the papers. Which I highly doubted she ever would lose a note unless a fire happened. I watched all the text fly through the screen but I went through every word with a fine tooth comb. “Are you even reading any of that?” He asked. I turned to him.

“She was studying an ancient artifact called a Magic Battery which was outlawed about twenty years after Luna's imprisonment on the moon when an arch mage named Star Wind used it to make a long distance teleportation but was lost for six months. Eventually half of him was found in a tree on the edge of the north west patch of the Everfree. The method of making it was lost until about 30 years ago when an old tomb was found in the A3 D47 section of the Canterlot Archives. It explained the materials needed to make it. The spell called for a one liter cup of water from the a magical reflection pond, about a two hour trot from Fluttershy's house following a set of landmarks. From there you need to compress the pond water into a magical sphere since the water itself is magically induced you would need just the right amount of magical pressure that only an expert in shield magic could perform. Then a magic storage enchantment would need to be woven into the magical sphere of water to the point it glows a dark blue meaning the enchantment was done correctly. If done wrong the ball will turn into useless water and the magic that was once in it will be released to the sky. Once done it would need at least seventy two hours to let the ball set and crystallize. Twilight wants to use it to replace the candles she used when reading. So she wants to use really old magical means for a night light. Clever use for it compared to the more dangerous side of what it could be used for say in the hooves of Sombra or even Nightmare moon herself.” Spike looked at me when I started to explain technical process to making the Magic Battery that I gleaned from Twilight's notes. For some reason I had the feeling I said all that in one breath. I don't quite remember. I guess the coffee I had earlier decided to kick in. I was going to need more of that. It was like liquid crack for me. What if Pinkie Pie had it? We would be flooding in an ocean of parties and streamers. I shuddered at the moment thinking about it.

“Are you sure you're alright?” Spike said with a raised eyebrow.

“Never better, why?”

“Because I don't think I have ever heard you speak just like Twilight did.” He said with his arms crossed.

“What?” I said confused.

“You just pulled a Twilight and explained that to me.” He said.

“I guess she is rubbing off on me.” I said with a grin. “You know I'm going to go read.” I said before I flew right up stairs and pulled out at least five books on pony technology. For the most part they have the same as we did back home. They have airships more like from an old role playing video game and they did have boats. I found so much great info that I wanted to make something from the books. Though I knew I couldn't really spend time on something so selfish like that. I put the books back and started to scan over more others. I was partly through some of the fictions because I felt like I wanted a good book to read. It was about then Twilight came into the door looking exhorted like she was running around all day.

“How long have you been here?” She asked between heavy breaths.

“Long enough to go through six daring do's, your old classic literal sections, and browse through your files about your work on making a Magic Battery Flashlight for reading, real fascinating stuff. I also got through five books on pony technology.” I said simply.

“Wait... you went through all that? But I was running around Ponyville and I couldn't find you. You just disappeared in a flash when you left us outside Fluttershy's house. How did you wait... my research on the Magic Battery? How did you... when did you... Oh Celestia. Spike!” Twilight said ending in her yelling for Spike who just came out of the door to the basement. “Why did you let him go down into the lab?” She asked.

“He wanting to see your Tesla coil so I showed him. I didn't know you didn't want him down there.” He said defensively.

“It's not that. I just didn't want my experiments messed with.” She said with a sigh.

“Don't worry Twilight all I did was read through your research. I kind of wanted to do more reading on it.” I said with a smile on my face.

“Wait, you understood it?” She said now surprised.

“Understood it? He pulled a you and explained how it's made to me.” Spike said as her look of surprise turned into a giddy squee.

“Finally somepony that is able to understand things.” she said giving a little dance that I found cute coming from the mare. She stopped and blushed realizing she was being watched. “You have no idea how long it's been since I found some pony able to understand science like I do.”

“Well, I find the technology here fascinating and I could see a Magic Battery being used for all sorts of things. Mind if I read more of your notes?” I asked.

“Go right ahead.” She said as I zipped back down to the computer and went to work on the keyboard.

“How do you keep doing that?” Twilight asked from the doorway. I looked up at her.

“Do what?”

“Disappear like that? I don't feel any magic so you're not teleporting. Unless you found a way to do it without detection.”

“I walked.” I said simply as I went back to browse through the files.

“But you were never that fast before.” She said as she popped next to me as she watched the data flash through the screen. “You can't seriously say you're following all that?”

“Well technically no I'm not following anything. I'm reading, this system is six days over due for it's maintenance check but you couldn't get a pony out here to do it until Sunday. So you started backing up a lot of your files into the storage drives over there.” I pointed to a large dark silver chest looking piece of tech that had a data gauge on it. “Which I found a bit funny to see that.” I said as I turned to her. She looked at me. “You keep rather detailed notes of events you plan for. Before you ask yes I have avoided anything labeled as your digital journal. I know better than to read that and I don't think any pony would find it other than you and me. Or Spike if he really goes looking hard for it.” I said before she went red again.

“Are you sure you're alright.”

“Yeah just a little energetic is all.” I said before I went flying through all the files again. She had everything so organized. Most of them about new spells; some of them seemed a little funny like a mustache spell and a personal spa spell. Then I noticed a bunch of these suction cup things attached to my back and wings. I turned to look at Twilight with about ten more in her magic. “What are those for?” I asked.

“I want to do a study on you.” She asked.

“But nothing painful alright?” I asked. Her ears flattened back for a moment.

“Do you think I would hurt you after everything?” She asked.

“Twilight I was more meaning it as a joke.” I said defeat on my face. She then pinned me to the ground.

“You are not an idiot Firestorm.” She said right into my face. I couldn't help but notice that we were almost muzzle to muzzle. I smirked and kissed her. This surprised her and with a pop she was off and next to me. I couldn't help but smile at her blush as I knew I had one as well.

“Look I may not be an idiot in the normal terms of the word but you can't deny the fact I have done extremely stupid acts.” I said as I sat on my rump. She looked at me a moment with a frown on her face.

“Firestorm, you do stupid things at times but that doesn't make you an idiot. You're smarter then you give yourself credit for.” She said as she came over and sat next to me. My wing started to extended but I stopped remembering my earlier move and pulled it back. “It's alright. I know you're trying to make me feel alright. I don't mind the wings.” She said, I smiled warmly as I placed the wing around her.

“Twilight.” I said as she looked over to me. “Before we go on I do want to say something. This may come across weird but please bare with me.” I started she nodded. “When it comes to the bed things. I won't do anything when it comes to that unless you want to. My actions if I do something in terms of that should be ignored as I don't know what they mean... okay?” I kept things vague and noted the blush on the cute mare.

“I understand that now, I'm sorry I jumped to that conclusion again.” She said as she gently nuzzled into me. I couldn't help but blush gently as I looked down at her. It would be even nicer if I didn't start to have a dull throb in the back of my head. I clinched my eyes for a moment and shook my head trying to will the throb away. “Are you alright?” She asked.

“Just a small headache is all.” I said.

“Do you want me to get you something for it?”She asked.

“Nah, I'll be fine. I've dealt with worse.” I said which was true, I had took a frying pan to the head before. I swear I could still hear that b flat tone the pain made after it collided with my head sometimes.

“I think you should go get yourself check out. You over taxed your magic, did a mad pony gallop down the woods, got shocked by a storm cloud from Rainbow Dash, and were chased for who knows how long. I really think you need to either lie down or go get checked out.” Twilight said looking at me worriedly.

“Twilight if it puts your mind at ease then I'll go get checked out.” I said as I started to get up but my legs fell out from under me. “Ow.” I said when I hit the ground with a whap.

“Firestorm are you alright?” Twilight asked living me in the air.

“Yeah my legs just went to sleep on me.” I said but something did feel off. My prosthetic hoof couldn't have gone to sleep too. Once feeling returned to my limbs I asked Twilight let me go. She placed me down as that dull throb got less dull. Since she talked me into it we both headed off to the hospital. Knowing my luck I have a six week stay ahead of me. She also didn't let me walk and instead floated me there. This I wasn't happy about.

“Oh calm down. I just didn't want you to go disappearing on me again.” She said as I hovered next to her.

“You know Twilight I'm sure nothing is wrong.” I said.

“You're going to float there and say nothing is wrong?”

“Twilight I...” I said before a sharp pain caused me to shut up and put a hoof to my face. “I think you're right.” I said it felt like my heart was beating in my frontal lobe. It didn't take long to get me in since I was royalty which was surprisingly useful. Doesn't really change the fact that I don't like the special treatment like this. This would be alright if I haven't spent most of my time in Equestria in a bed and not even my own. I wouldn't care so much if I was at least in my own bed. The bed that I only got to use once before my house exploded, at least I have Twilight. I laid down on the bed quietly as I watched Twilight in one of the chairs. She had asked one of the nurse mares for a book to read. I would have asked for one myself but my head was killing me and didn't think I could focus enough to read. “How long until the doctor gets here?” I said as I put my front hooves on my head to try and help keep it together.

“Well I'm right here Prince.” The doctor said at the door. I groaned at prince. I really need some kind of sign that says “please don't call me prince”.

“Please don't call me prince especially with this headache.” I said as I looked at him.

“How bad is it um...” He stops realizing he didn't know my name yet. “Mr. Firestorm” I wouldn't have face hoofed but my hoofs were already on my head.

“Just Firestorm please.” I said “And it feels like Pinkie Pie doing a hat dance on my frontal lobe with steel horse shoes with spikes on the bottom.” I said and even Twilight winced at that description.

“Why didn't you tell me it was that bad?” Twilight asked.

“It wasn't that bad a few moments ago but it keeps getting worse.” I answered really wishing it would stop.

“Please stay still for a moment.” The doctor said before his horn started to glow a bright blue as a thin line of blue crossed my body a few times before it stopped and turned to a blank wall. A few moments later and what I would guess an X-ray image was suppose to appear. But a giant a blue blob of light covered the image. “If I didn't know it was suppose be a X-ray I wouldn't have a clue what that was.”

“That is seriously suppose to be my X-ray?” I asked confused.

“How is that even possible?” Twilight asked.

“Something is overpowering the spell. I don't know what it could be.” he said before came over to me. “Could you please cast a simple spell?” He asked. I started to focus on a levitation spell being harder to do with the headache. I got the cup of water over to the doctor as he watched my horn. Then I noticed Twilight was staring as well. “I don't think I've ever seen anything like that.”

“I... I'm at a loss for words.” She said.

“Can some pony please explain what the two of you are talking about?” I got out before the headache got too bad to focus on the spell. The water cup dropped and spilled all over the floor.

“Your horn was sparking.” Twilight said.

“Wait... sparking? I thought my horn does that fire thing?”

“Fire thing?” The doctor asked now confused as well. I would have replied but this headache was getting unbearable.

“Yes, I am not aware if you know but Firestorm is part dragon as well... Don't you think you should give him something for that headache?” Twilight said as she pointed to me as I was trying my best not to yell out in pain.

“Oh right.” he said digging into his pocket. He then pulled out three small blue pills then popped them into my mouth with his magic. I swallowed them whole without the water, please let these things work fast. They did but not the way I thought they would, I feel asleep. This does not bode well.

***---***

Running, that was all I was doing running away from the dark shadow with red eyes. A soon as I drifted off into sleep I was assaulted by this thing again. I was running through Ponyville but it wasn't like it was suppose to be. Everything was decayed, like every second ten years passed. The building started to rot before my eyes as I ran away from this thing.

“You shouldn't have gotten in my way.” The thing said as it's voice echoed through the rotted town. Every step I took away from it brought it closer. I turned to the left down an alley but it continued to follow. It loomed over me like a hunter. I hoped that some pony would come and help stop it or least get me away from it but no pony came, no pony was around at all. I continued to run through Ponyville until I found the Carousel Boutique. I ran up to the door that was destroyed, jumped in and looked around.

“Anypony here?” I yelled into the rotted house. There was nothing but the pony mannequins she works with. I couldn't help but shrink back because they had rips that made them have faces. They all were turned to look at me. I gulped and slowly stepped back before I heard a familiar click, the sound of a six shot revolver.

“Too bad, you shouldn't have gotten in my way.” the thing said. I rolled to the right as a round fired. I dived down between his legs and I ran away. “You won't get away from me pony.” It said. I continued to run through Ponyville trying to find a way out of this nightmare. Again that familiar sound was heard followed by a gunshot the got me in the leg. I fell over as the thing loomed over me. He looked down at me with the red eyes, pulling up the revolver to point right at me. I could see down the barrel of the gun. I heard another click as he whispered. “You shouldn't have gotten in the way...”
Bang.

***---***

I did not like what I woke up to. You know that dream where you wake up on some mad scientist table ready to cut you up to see what makes you tick? It felt like that and coming from a nightmare, of course it didn't help that I had a tube down my throat. I was cuffed to a table that was propped up forty five degrees and had tubes coming from needles in all three of my legs. My wings had the little clamps that you find on jumper cables as well as my horn. I even had that beeping indicating my heart rate going a mile a minute. Oh then the doctor shows up in his lab coat and thick glasses. When he opened the door and the light reflected off of them making him look that much more like a mad scientist. My first thought was to get out of here. I tried but they got me down quite well. I even tried to blink but to my surprise I was cut off from my magic. Cut off from my magic? This started to panic me even more. I didn't know very many spells but I could at least float things. It was then I noticed I didn't have my headache anymore.

“I see you're awake now. Feeling better?” The doctor asked. Yes ask the drony with a tube down his throat a question? Where the hell did you get your medical degree a cereal box? “No from Canterlot.”

“Oh god he can read my thoughts.” I thought

“Well normally I can't but you have a thought relay attached to your head so I can pick up your thoughts and don't you mean goddess?” He said.

“One, get this tube out of my throat it's starting to hurt. Two, who said I had to be politically correct in my head. Three, where is Twilight and what was wrong with me that forced you all to put me in this thing?” I replied with my thoughts. He removed the tube slowly as he started to explain.

“To answer your questions, you don't need to be politically correct in your own head. As for Twilight, she is out doing something for Princess Celestia. Finally what happened after Twilight ran and got the book. We found that shock from the storm cloud reacted with your body to put you in this hyper active state. You body took it and made it into energy so you could move and think fast. But that energy started to burn you out. So we had to drain your magic to make your better. I'm also going to assume that you're worried about your magic. Don't be, your magic is just a little dull, so to speak, Give it an hour or two and you should be casting like a mad pony again.” He explained

“Hey!” I shot back.

“I saw you run and blink earlier.” He retorted and I shot him an annoyed glare.

“Is our nephew better now?” Luna said as she trotted.

“Oh much better they’re sending me to the nut house. You're just in time.” I statistically said.

“Why would they be sending you there?” Luna asked.

“Because they think me a mad pony.” This caused Luna to turn a glare to the doctor. I couldn't help but crack a smile at this. I was joking but it was funny to see that doctor sworn like that. “All joking aside, can somepony please get me out of this thing?” I said. With a flick of magic Luna unlocked the cuffs letting me slide to the floor. I got back up onto my hooves and stretched. “Thank you.” I said as I gave my wings a testing flap they seemed fine to me. It was then a pair of saddlebags were floated over to me from the doctor.

“Here these are the samples Twilight requested.” The doctor said as he readjusted his glasses.

“What kind of samples?” Luna asked.

“Samples from Prince...” He started to say before my annoyed glare. “I mean Firestorm here that she requested.” Luna looked at me before it clicked in my head. She requested samples... from me... when I was out cold from a sleeping pill. Why did she want these samples? Was I just an experiment to her? I kept quiet as I put the saddlebags on and left the room.

“Are you alright?” Luna asked as we exited the hospital.

“Yes.” I said simply. Granted the thought of Twilight thinking of me as some experiment didn't feel right to me. I didn't really look where we were going as I followed Luna to the library. We opened the door to find Spike running around cleaning.

“Welcome to... Oh princess Luna what brings you here?” Spike said as he stopped to see who had entered.

“Spike I want you to relay a message to Twilight Sparkle for me. Firestorm will be coming to Canterlot for diplomatic business. She doesn't have to worry about him while she is doing something for my sister.” Luna said. Spike nodded a few moments later and wrote it down.

“Anything else?” He asked.

“Spike could you please go get that box I left by the computer downstairs?' I requested. He gave me a raised eyebrow before he ran off to retrieve it. A few moments later he brought the case for the sword. I wrapped it in my magic and floated it to me. “Thank you Spike. Also I have the samples Twilight requested from the doctor.” I said as I floated the bags over to him. “Can you make sure she gets these as well?

“Can do.” He said as he takes the bags away.

“We will be off then.” Luna said as we exited in silence. There was a chariot outside waiting for us. Luna hopped in first with me following quietly. Both of her pegasi nodded as we took off. This time I didn't really mind the flying because the only thing I could think about the whole trip was if Twilight found me as an interesting experiment or not. Thirty minutes later both Luna and I had made it to the Castle. Shining Armor and Cadence were waiting at the entryway when we pulled up.

“Hey Storm how's it going?” Shining asked donned in his guard armor.

“Alright I guess.” I said. He looked at me with a raised eyebrow then turned to Cadence who shrugged. Luna looked at the three us then focused on me.

“We have something to talk about.” She said as she went into the castle. I followed with a small sigh escaping my mouth. We entered a room with what reminded me of the round table from King Arthur's court. I then noticed the chairs had markings on them. I saw the recognizable markings of a few ponies Cutie Marks. Twilight's, Shining Armor's, Cadence's, Luna's, Celestia's, and mine were at some of the chairs mainly close together that I noted. I took a seat at my chair. It was nicely designed. The cushion on the seat and back was a nice red cotton texture fabric with my fireball and storm cloud Cutie Mark embroidered into it. For some reason I had a feeling it was a cloud I was sitting on. We all took our seats before Luna cleared her throat. “Are you all aware of where my sister currently is?” Luna asked. Shining Armor and Cadence nodded.

“Not a clue.” I said scratching the back of my head.

“Celestia is currently in Saddle Arabia dealing with a diplomatic problem that had arose because of a break in.” Luna said as she turned to me.

“Break in? Was any pony hurt?” I asked.

“From the reports six guards died in the line of duty. Three of them being from Equestria.” She said as she floated up a file and pulled out all the documents in it.

“What was the culprit after?” Shining asked.

“A very old artifact called the Desert's Eye” Luna said.

“What is the Desert's Eye?” I asked.

“Not a lot of ponies know about it but the Desert's Eye is part of a larger artifact that was broken up to prevent its use ever again.” Luna explained.

“Do we know what pony did it?” Shining asked.

“Unfortunately we do.” She said as she looked at me. I couldn't help but gulp because of her look made me feel she was blaming me. Her look softened a bit before she sighed. “You're all aware of Firestorm's alternate personality and the events that followed?” She asked.

“It was Shadow Storm?” I asked in pure surprise. I figured he came from me and just wanted to escape but he is his own person er... pony I guess.

“The problem is that some of the officials in Saddle Arabia know of you Firestorm since both of you are the same aside from color, they thought it was you. Celestia went to explain what happened and is having Twilight put a show on in good faith to help them persuade them into not cutting all ties to Equestria. Until everything blows over you will be staying here in Canterlot.” Luna said.

“I understand.” I said simply. The three of them looked at me for a moment. “What?”

“Sorry it's still hard to see how you can at times just let things blow over like that and other times you will...” Shining said.

“Explode?” I ventured a guess.

“Well yes. After you going off on Rainbow Dash like that.”

“Shining Armor,”I started and I guess I started to feel a little royal “When it comes to how I let things bother me it depends on how I hear about it or the context. When I blew up at Rainbow I was still dealing with the feeling I had lost part of myself. She just aggravated a bad situation at the time. As for this there is nothing I can do. I understand that I have to stay in Canterlot because the ponies may get the wrong idea if I walk around freely. This is a delicate situation that just needs me out of the way. I don't have the necessary skills to do anything but become a bigger pain in butt. It's beyond my control at this point.” I explained in a calm tone.

“You do know we don't see you as a pain in the butt right?” Cadence said with a worried look.

“I'm aware Sis but it doesn't change the fact that I have caused quite a lot of headache since I arrived."

“He does make a point there. But we know it wasn't your doing just being at the wrong place at the right time.” Luna explained.

“If I had a bit for every time I had that happen.” I said sarcastically.

“You would be rich?” Shining added.

“Beyond your wildest dream.” I added as he whistled. “How long do I have to be here?” I asked.

“About two weeks from our understanding.” Luna explained.

“Alright.” I said as I brought the box closer to me.

“So something survived?” She asked and I nodded.

“Well two things really.” I said as I opened the box to show the six pointed star shaped gem in it. I floated it up so every pony could see it.

“That's quite a gem you have there.” Cadence said.

“Yeah I do.” I said as I thought about how I was going to give it to Twilight. That of course derailed back to my train wreck from before. With a sigh I put the gem back in the box with the sword carefully. “If you would excuse me I would like to go rest.” I said as I got up.

“Of course.” Luna said. I left the room and headed to the room I stayed at every other time I was stuck here. I floated the box with me and watched the fire like aura my magic took again. It was at least nice to know that my magic was back to normal again. She did at least make sure I was better... if she cared. Why did she want all those samples from me? Did she like me so I would stay around so she could experiment on me? Or was all this one huge experiment and I was the subject to be used?

“Hey Firestorm could I have a word with you?” Cadence said as she and Shining caught up with me.

“Yeah, sure.” I said as we continued down the hall.

“What's wrong?” She asked.

“Just too much to think about.” I simply said.

“You know you can talk to us right?” Shining add. I stopped for a moment at that and looked at the two. On one hoof they could make me feel better about the whole experiment sample thing by telling me I'm over-thinking it. That or they could yell at me and bray me for even thinking about that of Twilight. I sighed.

“Alright but can we talk about this in my room. No offense I just don't want prying ears.” I said which was partly true.

We made it the rest of the way to my room soon after. Once the door was closed and locked I turned to the two of them.

“Would either of you have a problem if I changed into my Drony form? I just want to get used to it but I'm fine if either of you would want me to stay a normal pony” I said. They looked at each other.

“Honestly I thought it was pretty cool looking.” Shining said with a smile.

“And I can't say I'm not curious about how it looks. I never got to see it after all.” Cadence said with a smile. I stepped away from them as I felt for that familiar magic again. It was getting a little easier to find it as I let the warmth cover my body, I felt the two horns grow out of the back of my head and my mane get longer. I stretched a bit as I watched my fur turn to scales and my left hoof grow claws. They were like little fingers for me. Not as close as my right hoof's prosthetic hoof but it's manageable. I felt my tail get thicker and longer to be more reptile then equine. I felt around my mouth for my sharp pointed teeth. After I felt my body finished it's change I stood back up looking at the two of them.

“So how do I look?” I said in a joking tone. I sat down and wrapped my tail around to see the diamond end.

“Honestly I would be terrified if I didn't know it was you.” Cadence said. She then came over to me and poked my leg. “Is it weird having scales instead of fur?”

“Not really, it feels about the same.” I said as I walked over to a mirror to look at myself. I looked at myself at the side and saw the second and third horns on the back of my head. I get why I have the one on my forehead. But why the other? It didn't even glow when I used magic. More like there were to make me more menacing. Well it was sort of effective with the red reptile eyes and my normal whites of my eyes a dark red. “A lot of this is still confusing me.”

“What do you mean?” Shining asked.

“Well I can breathe under water with it. I don't know if I could do that without being transformed.” I said as I tried to think about it.

“Maybe we can test that out some time.” Cadence said with a smile.

“Yeah. That would be nice... if I don't freak out every pony.” I said with a sigh before I went to the fire place. It was slowly making it's way to night. With a puff of flames the fireplace came to life in a ruby flame, a mainly red colored flame that tipped with a brighter red.

“So what is bothering you?” Cadence said then added a moment “About Twilight.” I stopped and slowly turned to her. How do ponies keep doing that? Am I just that readable?

“How?” I asked as I looked at her.

“I'm the alicorn of love. I can sense all kinds of love and yours is telling me that something is bothering you. It wasn't like when we left you last night.” She clarified. Okay I guess I would have to accept that.

“Since you have me dead right on this one. I found out that she requested samples earlier today.” I started with.

“That doesn't sound so bad.” Shining said.

“From me. While I was knocked out from some medicine a doctor gave me.” I added which made Shining even flinch at that.

“Ouch...” He added and I simply nodded.

“It wasn't too long before I arrived. Maybe half an hour to an hour before Luna and I got here.” I said as I turned to the fire and stared at it.

“Your worried about it aren't you.” Cadence said as she sat next to me, I nodded.

“I may be over-thinking this but I can't help the nagging thoughts that she really just wanted to be around to experiment on me. Or make me an experiment all together. It worries me that she never really liked me like I like her... you know?” I asked as I turned to Cadence.

“I don't know what Twily was thinking but I can assure you she would never hurt you like that.” Shining said as he came up next to Cadence.

“I know but... It's bugs me. She could’ve just asked if it was okay with me first. It's just... I don't know. I feel like... well when Twilight went into my mind she found a room in there that perfectly depicts this.” I started as the two of them look at me.

“What was in the room?” Cadence asked.

“From what I was told. It was a room filled with pillars and statues on each one of every pony I have seen and met.” I started.

“And?” Shining asked.

“And in a group of them are the ones I hold the dearest higher up than the rest of them. At the bottom of the pillars there is a statue of me. I bet you two can get the meaning of that from the description alone.” I said as I watched the flames danced in the fireplace.

“Well it sound like you find yourself...” Cadence started to say but bit her bottom lip.

“Inferior to every pony.” Luna said from the door. We all turned to see her there with some of the castle staff. They had carts, all with food on them. They all looked scared as they stared terrified at me. Great, not even one day and I have scared already scared the staff. I turned back to the fire and lowered my head.

“Ponies please do remember what I had told you.” Luna said most likely to the staff.

“Ah, yes princess.” A mare said as I could hear the sound of hooves come up to me. I turned to see one of the staff ponies. She had a light blue coat and a long blond mane. “Prince Firestorm?” She asked with a bow.

“Yes?” I asked, trying to ignore the prince title even more now.

“I do apologize for my reaction to seeing you like this.” She said.

“It's quite alright Miss...”

“Clear Sky” she said.

“Well Miss Clear Sky, I do forgive you for being scared but you're safe around me.” I said with a smile as I gently raised her head up to look at me as I gave a warm smile.

“Ah thank you Firestorm.” She said before she went back to her cart. The other two were another mare in a maid outfit came over and bowed as well. This one had a white coat and a short curly pink mane.

“Right, Firestorm I am Cotton Candy.” She introduced herself. The Stallion that came up next had a pale blue coat with a dark blue mane that reminded me of one of those french butlers. He wore about the same thing.

“Firestorm my name is Moon Light and it's a pleasure to meet you sir.” He said with a bow. I can deal with sir.

“It's a pleasure to meet all of you.” I said.

“These will be your personal attendants during your stay here Firestorm” Luna explained.

“Why?” I asked.

“Well you're not going to want to leave much especially if you want to remain in that form.” She said pointed at me. “This way you can request something to be brought to you without worry of being attacked as some...”

“Luna it's fine. I know they would see me as some monster or beast, has any other staff been notified?” I asked.

“Both the day and night guards are informed” Shining said. “So they won't attack you.”

“Will I remain safe in this form to go around the castle in?” I asked.

“Yes but some of the staff may still be scared.” Luna answered.

“That is fine. I just want to get used to this form if its part of me.” I said as I got up.

“That is understandable. I figured you also would prefer the from since the whole Chrysalis’s attack.” She surmised.

“Speaking of that. How is that going?” I asked.

“She is in the dungeon and won't talk. Her changelings are also locked away. We haven't gathered any information from them.” Shining said with annoyance in his voice.

“I wonder if she remembers me?” I said as I grinned this caused one of the maids and the stallion to faint. “Whoops...” I said with a light chuckle added.

“It's quite alright and most likely after breaking off her horn and tearing off her wings. I doubt she would forget you for a long time.” She said as I winced. I completely forgot I did all that.

“May I see her.” I asked. This caused all the remained ponies that were awake to do a double take and look at me.

“You can't be serious?” Shining said.

“Why would you want to see her?” Cadence said

“Because you can use the fright card on her saying that you would leave me alone with her to have fun.” I said simple and flatly. Part of me wanted to get my licks in on her but I didn't tell them that.

“The does sound like an idea. But I don't think fear would be the best way to motivate her into talking.” Luna said.

“Fear can be a very good motivator. Trust me I would know.” I said as I stared right into Luna's eyes. She looked at me for a moment then nodded.

“Very well follow me.” She said then turned to the remaining standing maid. “Please set up the meal for our return and if you could make sure these two are awake.” She said as she gestured to Cotton Candy and Moon Light. I couldn't help but smile a bit at this. We left Cadence and Shining following as we went down four flights of steps to a very, very deep basement. We passed about six super thick doors, until we found the queen of the changelings chained to the wall. I leaned over to Luna.

“I'm going to close my eyes since they glow in the door. Let me know when I can open them. You know for effect.” I whispered into her ear. She nodded as I close my eyes.

“Wake up Chrysalis” Luna said.

“Oh hello again Princess of the night. What a great honor to have you here again.” The changeling queen snidely said. “So what bring you down here again? Not to try and get answers out of me again right?”

“You know very well why I'm here. Now why did you attack the prince and Twilight Sparkle?” Luna said.

“Oh please asking me the first time didn't get you answers. Why would you think asking me a thousand more times is going to do anything but annoy me?” She said.

“Because this time I'm not alone.” Luna said as I could hear the smirk on her face.

“She has the captain of the royal guard her.” Shining said.

“Oh so we have Prince Shining Armor here two. Let me guess your wife is also here just so you can all mock me for failing at your wedding.” Chrysalis bite back.

“Yes I am here and no we aren't here for that. We want to know why you attacked this time?” Cadence said.

“Well no matter. You still aren't getting answers.” She said in a defiant tone.

“Maybe I know some pony to get you to talk.” She said then whispered in my ear. “Now would be the best time to open your eyes.” I did just that and her defiant look turned into one of pure fear.

“Why did you bring that thing with you?” She said now some fear to her voice.

“Because I want to know the answer to that as well. Maybe I should have a little fun to loosen you up.” I said as I stepped closer as she watched me, fixated on me.

“Stay away from me monster.” She said as she tried to get as far back as she could. I noticed she had a good chunk of her horn back.

“Are you afraid of me breaking your horn again? Or maybe of shocking you?” I said as my horn glowed and sparks started to shoot out of my right hoof.

“No stay away from me.” She continued to plead.

“Then talk or I get to have fun.”I said as I got real close face to face with her. I stayed cool and calm about it. “Maybe I should break your horn again just to get my point across.” I said as I reached up and grabbed it.

“Alright I'll talk.” She whimpered.

“Good now that you'll talk. If I find out you even once insult my family again. I. Will. Break. You.” I said before I whispered the last four words in to her ear with venom dripping from my voice. “Do I make myself clear?” I said she nodded. “I can't hear you.”

“Yes”

“Yes what?” I said I wanted my point across.

“Yes Prince Firestorm.” She said as I let her go.

“Good, now good bye Chrysalis. Be a good girl now.” I said as I turned away. “You never know when I'm in the shadows.” I said when I turned around standing in the dark. Letting my eyes be the only thing that can be seen. Then I closed them slowly.

***---***

“I can't believe that worked.” Shining said as we entered my room.

“Jack of all trades master of none.” I simply put.

“Oh? What else can you do?” Cadence asked.

“Well I prefer drawing honestly. But I dabble in a lot of things. Like um...” I stopped to think then snapped my claws like I would do fingers. “You come to me the day of my fillies wedding to ask me for a favor?” I said in my best godfather accent

“Oh do another one.” Cotton Candy asked.

“Cotton remember that's the prince.” Moon Light chided her.

“You've got to relax there partner. Otherwise you won't be getting such a lovely thing her time of day.” I said with my best cowboy southern draw. He looked at me for a moment but all I did was grin.

“That is just too cool.” Shining said.

“Could you do another one?” Cadence asked as I grinned.

“How about this?” I said in a dead on Blueblood voice.

“Wow...” She said “That was creepily spot on.”

“I know.” Shining added.

“It could have been worse I guess. But I like to do voices at times. Just to either entertain people or joke around. Though I find myself doing a voice or accent without realizing it.” I said as Luna looked me over.

“Oh how so?” She asked.

“Well simply. If thou asks us to explain then we will” I said this time emulating Luna when she goes for the royal we as she puts it. “Like that mainly. But that one was more doing to make a point. When it comes to voices I sometimes pick up one just to try it out. It's like voices are to me as spells are to Twilight.” I said as I thought it was the best analogy to use.

“That could be scary if used wrong.” Shining said.

“Yeah but it could be funny. You should hear my evil laugh some time. I hear that creeps some… ponies out.” I said catching myself before I said some people.

“Oh you must show us then.” Luna said. I couldn't help but have a little fun with it. I got up and moved in front of the fireplace. With a flick of magic I called forth a wall of fog to cover me. I dimmed the lights a bit for added effect.

“Hello there ponies. I see you thought it brave to journey into my lair.” I started keeping my tone deep, low, and even. “But you forget something my little ponies that here. You once the hunters are now the hunted.” I said slowly making my way out of the fog while crouching low and creeping. “I now am the hunter and you are my prey” I said before I let out an evil laugh that was simple but just creepy. I could see the shiver in Cadence. Luna just clapped and Shining was in awe.

“You are going to have to show me how to do that some time; to scare the cadets.” He said.

“Maybe some time I should come myself and give them a good scaring. You know make them prepared for anything... Now that I think about it. That doesn't sound too bad. Maybe I could get some practice in as well.” I said.

“Practice?” Luna asked.

“Combat practice.” I said simply, “I haven’t faced anything big beside Sha but that was in my mind.”

“I see your point. So you want to better yourself to protect everypony?” Luna asked and I nodded.

“Yes, I just want to make sure I could hold my own in a fight if I have to. I mean those changeling got me good and I did my best. It's just wasn't good enough to avoid almost dieing again.” I said. Luna put a hoof on my back.

“We understand how you must feel about this. If it makes you feel better you can practice with some of the guards to better yourself.” She offered. I thought about it for a moment. “The only question that leaves me is if I do it. How long will I be either out cold or in the hospital.” I asked knowing my train wreck of luck.

“How about tomorrow that way I can be well rested for it?” I offered.

“Sounds like a plan. Mind if I have some of the cadets watch?” Shining asked. I simply shrugged.

“May as well. They can see what not to do.” I joked.

“You don't give yourself enough credit.” Luna said.

“To what? My lack of fighting prowess or knowing I'm going to get my butt whooped?” I asked.

“Both really. I'm sure you're able to fight. You did fine against that Timber Wolf” She said.

“Because I did what I do best; Something insanely stupid.” I said as she gave me a deadpanned look.

“I don't even know what to say to that.” Luna said after a face hoof.

“Dumb luck?” Shining offered.

“Naively smart?” Cadence tried.

“Insanely Stupid?” I asked.

“Lucky?” Moon Light added before Luna glared at him and he flew right out of the room. I didn't know a stallion could run that fast. The rest of the night pretty much went no where. We ate in my room mainly for the fact I didn't have to go any where. So we talked, mainly about my old home. Apparently Twilight didn't share her findings with Celestia and Luna yet. They asked more about the past from my world and I told them. I told them of the wars and battles that happened over the years. I told them of the nations that rose and fell. I told them everything I could remember. Which was a lot because I am a data bank of useless knowledge. After eating and a bit more talking every pony but Luna left.

“Something wrong Luna?” I asked mainly because she was the last one in my room. Even Moon Light, Cotton Candy, and Clear Sky left. Luna came up to me and sat next to me.

“I wanted to talk to you about before. When you made that comment about the room in your head.” She said. I couldn't help but look down.

“What about it?' I asked.

“I don't want you to feel inferior to any pony.” She said as she sat next to me. “I can't say I completely understand your feelings about all this. I don't think any pony can truly do that.”

“And I understand that Luna. But really I can't help but feel it when I look at every pony.” I said. “When I see any pony I get this feeling of not really belonging. especially when I'm not from here.” I said as I started to lay down quietly. Luna gently nuzzled me and wrapped me with a wing.

“I'm truly sorry that you feel such pain but I do understand not belonging. After my thousand years on the moon, I felt like a stranger in my own land. The night clubs, the parties, the shops and just everyday life felt different then I remembered them to be. I felt like a kids drawing on top of a master piece.” I could feel the pain behind those words. The lost she must have felt, having lost a thousand years being stuck on the moon. I'm surprised she didn't lose her mind up there. If I was up there I probably have lost my mind in the first six minutes. “If there is anything I can do to help then please let me know. I’m your family Firestorm and it hurts to see you bothered like this.” She said looking at me. I could help but smile a little.

“Thanks Luna. I just don't know what could help me feel more... at home. I just...” I got out before I sighed and laid flat on the floor. “Maybe my brain is just too hardwired to be worried and out of place all the time. Maybe I just need some good luck to happen. Not just more stuff to pile on a dwindling sanity.” I said.

“Has anything happened that made you smile or at least somewhat happy?” She asked.

“Well plenty of things. Having a family that cares for me has made me happy and friends that worry about me. Then just simple moments when we just don't worry about anything and just be normal for awhile.” I start to say with a smile before the thought of Rarity using me and Twilight's wanting samples of me crept into my head again and the smile faded. “But those are few and far between” I said followed by a yawn.

“I truly am sorry Firestorm. If you want I can help you get to sleep.” She offered before I jumped as I remembered the nightmare.

“No!” I said back peddling away.

“What's wrong?” Luna said as she stepped closer to me. Just thinking about that dream with the Thing and revolver made me start to shake. Luna must of caught on to this. “Are you having nightmares again?” She asked and I nodded slowly.

“I just don't want to see that again. It felt too real Luna.” I said as I started to curl up. She came up to me and started to stroke my mane a bit it dancing around her hoof. Apparently when I'm in this form my mane takes on the properties of both hair and fire. It flickers and dances but it's stroke-able and it won't hurt anypony. She just continued to do that until I stopped shaking.

“Hush now quiet now it's time to rest your sleepy head.” She started to sing. “Hush now, quiet now. It's time to go to bed.” You better not do what I think you're about to do. “Driftin' off to sleep, leave the day behind you. Driftin' off to sleep, let the joy of dreamland find you.” With a flick of her horn everything dropped away as I drifted off to sleep Luna singing a lullaby all the way to the land of dreams. Within moments of falling asleep I found myself in a ruined Canterlot Castle. A lot of the windows were broken or smashed. The walls were either cracked, broken, or covered in moss. Even the statues weren't spared from time getting to them. I started to down the hall of the castle, the carpet was covered in dust and holes. Just like before no pony was around. Suddenly the sound that I never wanted to hear again. The sound of a revolver being cocked.

“You shouldn't have gotten in my way” the thing said. I froze for a moment before I slowly turned to see the hulking over me. Darkness covered its body as it stepped closer. I could see my reflection in its red eyes. I froze there looking into its eyes, I looked on until it drew it's weapon on me causing me to be able to move again. I turned and took off at full speed down the halls. I started to hear stomping behind me as the thing spoke again. “You shouldn't have gotten in my way.”

“I didn't get in your way.” I said as I turned to the left on to another hallway. I ended up at a set of large double doors that had the paint peeling from it. With a quick buck the doors flew open and off the rusted hinges into the throne room. Where I see the skeletons of two alicorns. “Oh, no, no, no, no, no” There was a sudden bang and pang of pain in my right hind leg but I limped towards the thrones. Maybe if I hide behind one of them I would be safe.

“You can't hide now.” The thing said as it entered the room.

“I believe he can.” The regal voice of Luna said from somewhere. Then with no other notice the pain I felt in my leg stopped. Come to think of it everything stopped. No sound, no smell of decay, just nothing. “You can come out now”

“What did you... Luna look out!” I yelled as her back was turned to the thing with it's horn pointed at her. I started to gallop at the thing but blue filled my vision and I wasn't going anywhere. “What the?” I looked down and saw I was floating a few feet off the ground. I was running in the air like some comical cartoon character. She levitated me over to her and sat me down after she turned to the thing.

“So this is what has been haunting your dreams?” She asked, I just simply nodded.

“It kept chasing me. The first two times were in a decayed Ponyville. This time was in Canterlot Castle.” I explained as I could still see that look in its eyes; it told a story of anger and vengeance.

“You need not be scared of it Firestorm. It's only a dream.” Luna said then turned to the things hand. “What is this it's holding?” She asked floating the revolver over to her. She then looks down the barrel of it. Out of complete habit I grab the gun from her and point it up before her magic pulled the trigger on it. The bang from the gun echoed throughout the throne room.

“Don't ever do that Luna!” I said out of panic and worry. She looked at me surprised. I couldn't tell if it was from the gun going off or me grabbing it like I did. Seriously who looks down the barrel of a gun like that? Not even someone wanting to bite the bullet looks down it.

“What was that?” She asked. I take a deep breath and try to calm my nerves.

“It's called a gun, more specifically a revolver. The revolver is a repeating firearm that's a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers and at least one barrel for firing. The term "revolver" refers to a handgun, but other weapons may also have a revolving chamber. Like if you took a crossbow and made it fire six arrow one right after the other without need to pull the string back on it.” I explained as I pull the chambers out and unload the gun. Each bullet was a dark shelled with a red dot tip. Luna remained silent for a moment as I flipped the chamber close rolled it and pointed it to check the sight out of habit.

“How did...” She said before I cut her off.

“Luna weapons fascinate me, I studied them, from firearms to swords and bows. It was one of the few hobbies I still enjoy.” I said before I turned to her. “It's also a weapon from my old world.” I explain before I handed it back to her with the barrel in my metallic hoof. She floated it up again and pulled the trick again pointing it away from us. Just a click and nothing happened. She blinked for a moment.

“Wasn't it suppose to?” She starts.

“Not without ammo.” I said holding up the remaining five bullets.

“Make sense. As for this thing. Do you know why it haunts you?” She said as her gaze turns to the thing still looming above us, frozen in time.

“Honestly no... It feels familiar but I can't place where.” I said as I looked at this thing. Still scares me looking at this thing. Where did I come up with this thing? How did my mind come up with this thing?

“Maybe something from your past?” She offered.

“Then it would be in the small bits I can't remember still.” I said as I turned from the thing. “Can we just please get rid of it so I can sleep again.” I said with a shiver.

“I don't know if we can without knowing the source.” Luna explains. “Could this be from what happened earlier?” I shook my head.

“Same night you all left me and Twilight during the storm. When I went to bed that thing was waiting to chase me through Ponyville.” I pointed out.

“Then it must be something your brain is telling you is wrong.” She said as she came over to me.

“But I don't know what? I mean last night was good. I mean I still felt a little lost and still do but. I was happy I mean after Twilight.”I started to say before a blush cut me off.

“Before she kissed you?” Luna asked with an audible smirk. I simply nodded.

“Yes from her kiss, I was happy, I was feeling good. Then this Nightmare happened. Could it be because I finished my storm. That there was something scary looming over me for so long that... I miss it?” I started to surmise. It could be right, or was it more? Did it feel odd that it's not there? I would have continued this thought but all the walls of the castle started to disappear.

“It looks time is up.” Luna said before she disappeared as well. It was about then I sprung myself awake. It took me a few minutes to readjust my eyes to the light. I was not a morning pony, far from it. I got up and felt that same grogginess that I did back home. I needed coffee, stat. I looked around and I didn't see any pony until I saw Clear Sky come out of the bathroom. She even brushed off her maid outfit. It took a few moments before I realized what that could have implied and the blush filled my face. I shook my head to get rid of that thought. Stupid brain I like Twilight no thinking about other mares. She jumped at my sigh, realizing I was awake now.

“Morning Firestorm.” She said before she bowed. “What can I get you for breakfast?” She asked

“Coffee... black.” I said simply. She turned her head like she was waiting for more. “Coffee first food second.” I said as I rubbing my temples with my hooves. She nodded and went off to go get me my coffee. It didn't take long before she returned with a pot of coffee and a nice white mug that had my Cutie mark on it. Okay who decided to put my Cutie Mark, something on my ass on a coffee mug? What part of that screams good idea? She poured me a cup and I floated it over to me. I chugged the coffee so it would hit my system as fast as it could. Clear Sky looked at me as I blinked. “What?” I asked dumbly.

“Um... it's nothing.”She said turning away.

“Please tell me.” I asked. She bit her bottom lip.

“Um... you're having a problem down low.” She said as she turned away completely. I thought I saw a small blush on her face. Down below? Wait... I sat straight up and covered myself more in the blanket.

“I'm sorry.” I said as I hid my shame with my face turning a bright red. Did I just give this mare a full view without realizing it?

“It's quite alright Firestorm I just wanted to make sure you were aware... Don't worry I didn't see anything.” She nervously said.

“I... Um... Er... Sorry?” I stammered out. Really was an idiot in the morning. Part of the reason why I wasn't really a morning person back home. It was about then I also realized I wasn't in my transformed state. “Could I have a few moments... alone please? I need to go get cleaned up?” I asked. I really hope she doesn't take that the wrong way. She nodded and left after refilling the coffee cup again. I got out of bed and made my way to the bathroom to get cleaned up. After I finished my coffee of course. Can't have it getting cold on me while I'm in there. I turned on the cold water first and hopped in it. It was freezing but it did the trick. I turned it to hot and relaxed. I floated up the shampoo and worked it into my coat, it smelt like strawberries too. I wonder, did Rarity leave her shampoos in my room at the Castle or something? Oh well, no harm now I guess. The suds covered my body filling the room in the strawberry scent. For a bit I stopped rubbing it in and just smelled the scent. I always love this smell, so home feeling. Not as in my old home but just a welcome home kind of scent. With a sigh I rinsed the shampoo off and turned off the water. I got out and started to dry myself.

“Firestorm you in here?” A voice from outside the bathroom said as I was working on drying my coat.

“Yeah I'm in the bathroom drying off.” I said as the door opened to see Shining there in Armor.

“Hey Shining what's up?” I said as all I had left was my mane and tail.

“Just seeing if you're ready for practice.” He said as I started to make my mane and tail become fire. “Ah if you're not I can just come back later.”

“Nah, it's fine just finishing up.” I said as I snapped my tail back into its normal hair in the fire like pattern completely dry in one go. My mane followed with one head bang. “Ah much better.” I said looking it over in the mirror.

“Okay, I've got to say that was cool.” He said looking at me.

“Was it?” I asked.

“Totally.” He said before I exited the bathroom. “Ready?” he asked.

“Um... sure I guess. Do I need my sword?” I asked. He shook his head.

“We have practice ones you're going to use.” he said as we left my room. We walked down a few halls until we found ourselves at a large set of iron double doors. “Here we are.” He said.

“Where's here?” I asked as he opened the door with his magic. To literally a Colosseum filled with ponies. They wanted me to fight and put on a show.

“This is the training arena.” He said as we walked it. What the.. Seriously I was thinking maybe a field somewhere or a dirt patch of ground, not the roman Colosseum. This wasn't normal, far from it, you could take normality at this point and throw it out the window. I was going to fight ponies with more combat experience in their hooves then I had in six of my own body. I was screwed... big time.

-End of Chapter-