A little over an hour after Quentin, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie left Ponyville, the train screeched as the locomotive started to stop in the train station of Canterlot. The screeching and the jerking of the train stopping caused Quentin to awake from his sleep. He slowly opened his brown eyes with a soft yawn. It was moments before Quentin finally realized that Rainbow Dash had fallen asleep next to him, her head resting on his shoulder. The stallion smiled softly as the others walked over to them.

"Aw isn't that the sweetest thing you ever saw?'' Rarity cooed.

"Aww!'' Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy sighed in unison.

Applejack however, seemed rather troubled by the sight and frowned disapprovingly as Rainbow Dash slowly woke up. She saw four of the girls smiling at her and she looked at Quentin. Realizing she had fallen asleep on the earth pony's shoulder, she quickly moved away, a blush on her face.

"What's wrong? Ever see a pony trying to get a little nap in?!'' Dash asked loudly, faking a yawn.

"Oh Rainbow, you look just peaceful resting your head against Quentin's shoulder as you slept,'' Rarity giggled.

Quentin blushed and Dash blushed brighter. "What?! I wasn't resting my head against Quentin. I...it only looked like my head was resting on him!'' Dash denied frantically.

The others just smirked at her, clearing not buying it. Dash looked quickly at them before frowning. "Let's just get to the castle, we don't want to keep them waiting!''

Applejack nodded and said irritably, ''Yea let's.''

The others laughed and the seven friends made their way off the train. As Quentin passed Rainbow Dash, she tapped him on the shoulder. "Hey um Q?'' she began sheepishly.

Quentin knew what she was going to say and he smirked. "Don't worry about it Rainbow. Besides, you have a really soft mane.''

Dash responded with a chuckle as the friends made their way off the train together. While walking through the cars on our way off the train, Rarity glanced at Applejack and smiled with a soft gasp.

"Why Applejack, I just noticed you didn't have your hat on AND your hair is loose. It looks simply divine!'' Rarity complimented, admiring the farm pony's blonde mane.

The other girls voiced their approval and Applejack blushed. "Aw shucks girls. I jus' wanted to try a new style fer myself, that's all.''

"Well you should come with Fluttershy and me to the spa sometimes. One treatment, and your coat and mane will be glowing!'' Rarity suggested excitedly.

Applejack chuckled. "Whoa slow down Rare. One baby step at a time!''

The seven ponies all laughed, and they finally stepped off the train. Quentin immediately, noticed the train station was much bigger than the one in Ponyville. Ponies stood about the platform, either talking happily or marveling the sights. Pinkie did a quick hop.

"Yay we're here. Let's get this party started!''

Applejack chuckled, walking forward. "Simmer down surgarcube, before they kick us out.'' Quentin looked around and noticed a few guards in gold armor standing by the exits. He guess even in a place like Equestria has their share of troublemakers.

Twilight walked over to him, smiling. "So Quentin, what do you think about Canterlot so far?'' she asked, taking the male toward a ledge.

Quentin's jaw dropped as he gazed at the wonder that was Canterlot. The entire city spired on the side of a mountain, clouds rolling by aimlessly beneath it. He squinted through the clouds that rolled faintly by. "Is that...Ponyville?'' the stallion asked.

Twilight nodded. "Yes, Canterlot and Ponyville are seeing distances from each other.'' She then led her friend toward back to the rest of their friends and they walked through the exit. "But I think this view might be a bit better.''

What Quentin saw before couldn't possible compare to what he was looking at now. It was a gigantic city which every last piece of architecture here towers over the buildings of Ponyville. The designs were always elegant with each structure being topped with varying different spires. The dominant color of the buildings were porcelain white. Quentin gazed around, completely awestricken.

"This is Canterlot?'' Quentin asked slowly in wonder.

Twilight giggled. "Yep, the one and only.''

"Isn't is just beautiful Quentin?'' Fluttershy smiled in her usually quiet voice.

Quentin looked at the yellow Pegasus. "Beautiful is a major understatement Fluttershy,'' he replied, a wide smile slowly forming on his face.

Pinkie suddenly jumped in with her bubbly self. "Oh, just wait Quentin. Canterlot has some of the neatest places to shop and eat from. We can show you around to them!'' Pinkie said quickly.

"That'd be fine an' dandy Pinkie, but how bout' we see Shining Armor and Princess Cadence first?'' Applejack chuckled, putting an arm around Quentin. "Then maybe we can give Quentin the tour.''

They all agreed in unison and they made their way through the city. Quentin looked around in awe as they traveled through Canterlot. He noticed that most of the ponies that lived here were unicorns and judging from their fancy and exquisite clothing, they seemed to be upper class and quite wealthy. The human also noticed that they had their noses high in the air, walking with their eyes closed. Quentin could even swear he saw one couple whose heads were tilted so far back they could look at the ground behind them. Quentin turned to Rarity.

"Wow, these ponies look like they're living the high life up here,'' he said.

Rarity just sighed, with a slight frown. "Yes they do seem to be quite privileged alright,'' the beautiful unicorn replied.

Quentin looked at her puzzled. "To be honest with you Rarity, I'd could expect someone with your talents and profession to be living in a place like this. You certainly have an air of the crème de la crème, '' he remarked honestly.

Rarity gave Quentin a thankful smile. "That is very sweet of you to say Quentin and trust me darling, I get told that quite frequently. But to tell you the truth, no matter how much I may love coming here, I could never picture myself living here.''

''Really, why?''

Rarity frowned at Quentin. "As sophisticated and well groomed as these ponies may be, they are quite pompous and conceited. They look down on ponies that might not live up to their standards.''

Quentin looked at Rarity with a slightly surprised look, before nodding understandingly as she continued. "I may look and act posh, but I never would I judge a pony based on their social status. There are far more important qualities to look for than that.''

The human turned stallion looked at Rarity and gazed around at the surrounding ponies as they talked and went about their day. He frowned a little as he watched, there did seemed to be a hint of phoniness about them. Even their laughs seemed fake and pretentious.

"I gotcha Rarity. Sounds like some of the rich people from my world. They may act like the care for the less fortunate, but they only act like it for publicity. The only care about their image and money,'' Quentin muttered.

Rarity just nodded. Rainbow Dash then chuckled as she hovered next to the unicorn and earth pony. "Yeah, reminds me of that horse dick of a prince Blueblood,'' she smirked.

Rarity gave off a frustrating sigh as she rolled her eyes. "Please don't get me started with him!''

Quentin just looked lost. "Who's Prince Blueblood?''

Applejack chuckled. "Let's jus' say he's Rarity's so called 'Prince Charmin' that was anythin' BUT charmin.''

"You can say that again Applejack. I don't even want to hear that lout's name in a proper conversation!'' Rarity spat.

Quentin wandered what this Prince Blueblood could've ever done to cause Rarity to have such animosity towards him. Who could treat a generous pony like Rarity like some doormat? Not wanting to cause a bigger fire to Rarity's anger, he decided to ask something to change the subject.

"So...Shining Armor and Cadence must be really important for Princess Celestia to asked them to rule in her place?''

"Like it's a total surprise. I mean they ARE a prince and a princess after all,'' Dash shrugged.

Quentin whipped his head at the hovering pony and gawked. "Did you say prince and princess?!''

Dash looked around awkwardly. "Um...yeah?''

The stallion stared at Rainbow Dash for a moment and whipped his head at Twilight. "So you mean to tell me your brother is a prince?!'' Quentin asked the unicorn flabbergasted.

Twilight blinked before answering. "Yeah, he married Cadence just a few months ago and she was a princess. So...that made him a prince.''

Quentin couldn't believe what h was hearing. He was actually going to meet royalty. "So, that means you're part of a royal bloodline?!''

Twilight just giggled. "Yeah, I guess you can say that.''

Quentin just looked dumbs trucked until the only thing that came out of his mouth softly was, "Damn.''

Pinkie giggled. "What's the matter Quentin? Haven't you met a prince and a princess before?''

"Do you world have princesses and princes too?'' Fluttershy asked, she like Rainbow Dash hovering.

Quentin answered,'' Well yeah there are, but not just anyone can walk up to them and say hi.''

"Really, how come darling?'' Rarity asked.

The dreadlocked stallion shrugged, ''Mostly likely because they don't want the wrong kind of people to just waltz in to see them. They want to keep them safe.''

Twilight nodded. "Understandable, though Equestria has its share of trouble makers, nopony has ever threatened Princess Celestia or Princess Luna.''

"Of course nopony has, not unless they want to get their sorry flanks handed to them!'' Rainbow Dash grinned.

Among conversation, Twilight looked at Quentin. "And you'll just love Cadence also Quentin. You can always have a good time around her.''

Quentin smirked. "Sounds like you've known Cadence for a while huh?''

Twilight beamed. "Awhile? Cadence used to be my favorite foalsitter when I was a filly. She always came up with the best games to play, plus she's really kind and caring too!''

Quentin thought about the term 'foalsitter' and deduced that it couldn't be any different than a babysitter.

"Your foalsitter that was a princess ended up becoming your sister in law...how's that for a twist?'' he grinned.

The seven pony friends all shared a laugh. They walked through the city and finally over a bridge that led up to the biggest castle Quentin has ever seem. The castle was artistic and predominantly white with purple spires and gold. A waterfall crashed down from a near cliff that fed to a creek in which the creek led and fell from a cliff east from the castle. Not surprisingly for a royal castle, unicorns donning gold armor stood stern and tall, spears in the ridges of their hooves as they guarded the castle. The castle was truly a shining and majestic fortress to behold.

They walked up the large staircase and to the great doors that was guarded by two unicorn guards. At first, they frowned sternly, but then grinned as they saw the group approach them.

"We're here to see my brother Shining Armor and Princess Cadence please,'' Twilight spoke.

One of the nodded and spoke, ''Yes Twilight Sparkle, the prince and princess are expecting you.'' The two's horns glowed a light green aura as they opened the doors magically.

"Just wait Quentin. The castle may look beautiful on the outside, but on the inside, it's a palace like no other,'' Fluttershy smiled as they headed into the main hall.

Fluttershy was right, the inside of the castle seemed bigger and more beautiful than from the outside. The friends walked along the long purple carpet that led to pearly white stairs that went up and split west and east. After venturing through corridors and hallways of the castle, they finally made it to the spacious throne room. High on the throne, were two ponies. The first was a white male unicorn. He seemed burly like Big Mac who were about the same size as him. His mane and tail was of moderate cerulean with dark phthalo blue. Like other ponies, his mane was in the style of a humans, his mane falling down the back and over his left shoulder with bangs over his eyes that split at his horn, with was longer than Twilight's. His cutie mark consisted of a dark blue shield with three, light blue, five pointed stars over each point of the shield.

The pony sitting next to him was a female and probably the most beautiful pony Quentin has ever seen so far. She was a slender pony with a pale, pink coat and a dark violet mane with a hint of moderate rose and gold streaks, with her mane falling down her left side and curling at the mid of her forelegs. Her tail was long and matched her mane and too curled. Her cutie mark consisted of a teal crystal heart with a gold lace on her flanks. Unlike the other ponies he's seen so far, she wore a gold necklace around her neck with matching, gold shoes that went up a few inches on each hoof as well as a gold tiara with two, purple gems embedded into it on top of her head. She had a pair of Pegasus wings folded by her sided as well as a medium length, pink unicorn horn. She was truly a vision to behold.

She and the male pony were talking to two, formally dressed female ponies, each levitating a long scroll of some kind, possibly going over the duties and responsibilities the two must carry. Quentin's six friends smiled as they walked forward. The two glanced down at them and smiled brightly.

"Twily!'' the burly pony exclaimed happily as he and his wife galloped from the throne and down towards the group.

"Shining Armor! Cadence!'' Twilight squealed and ran towards them and flung her arms around her brother.

"It's so good to see you Twilight. I've missed you so much!'' Shining Armor said as he hugged his sister.

They broke apart and Twilight smiled at him. "Not as much as I missed you Armor!''

"Hey what about your sister and law?'' Cadence smiled, walking forward.

Twilight grinned at her before hugging her. "You know I wouldn't forget my favorite sister in law!'' Twilight responded enthusiastically.

Applejack learned into Quentin, a grin on her face. "Now you jus' watch Quentin. This is gonna be jus' the cutest thing ya ever seen,'' she said with a wink.

Quentin tilted his head a little in confusion at Applejack and he looked at the two ponies. What he saw next just made him smile. Twilight and Cadence hopped in place then ducked low while covering their eyes with their forelegs, before raising them as if playing peek-a-boo. They then sat down on their haunches and tapped their hooves together one at a time. They then stood up, stood side-by-side, and wiggled their rumps while still maintaining eye contact. All the while, they chanted, "Sunshine sunshine, ladybugs awake. Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"

''Ok, that was just too adorable,'' Quentin said trying to suppress a snicker.

"Aww!'' the six cooed in unison.

"That never ceases to warm my heart to see!'' Rarity spoke, placing a hoof over her chest with a touched smile over her face.

"Girls! You've made it. How have you been?'' Cadence asked trotting to the others.

"Princess Cadence, what's up?!'' Rainbow Dash said, giving the pony a hug.

Cadence happily greeted and hugged the rest of the mane 6 as Quentin stood a few inches back from them. He observed her intrigued for he had noticed that she had a pair of Pegasus wings and a unicorn's horn. That was the first and only combination the earth pony stallion seen to date and he pondered what exact race she could possibly be. As she hugged Fluttershy, her eyes gazed upon Quentin's shy, uncertain face.

"Oh and who do we have here?'' Cadence smiled at me in that sweet, tender tone of hers.

Quentin immediately flinched up, not finding the right words to say. Twilight and Shining Armor walked forward and the others smiled, with Twilight walking beside Quentin and putting a hoof around his shoulders.

"Shining Armor, Cadence...it'd be our pleasure to introduce you to our new friend, Quentin,'' Twilight smiled.

"Such a unique and interesting name. Hello Quentin, it's nice to meet you,'' Cadence replied, a warm, inviting smile on her face.

"So this is the famous Quentin I've been hearing about. It's great to finally meet you,'' Armor said with a grin.

The only thing Quentin could think off was lean backward, his left foreleg bent and his bottom in the air as he fell into a sharp, awkward bow to the prince and princess. Everyone looked at the equine with a, shocked and puzzled look as Quentin bow. "T-thank you Prince Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. It's an honor to be allowed to meet you in the castle,'' Quentin said respectfully.

His friends just looked blankly at him, then smiled sheepishly at the royals. "Umm, we may have mentioned to Quentin on the way here that you two were prince and princess,'' Twilight said to her brother and sister in law.

Shining Armor and Cadence looked at each other before finally laughing. "Quentin, there's no need for the formalities,'' Cadence said.

Quentin peered up to the pony. "Um, y-yes your highness,'' he said as he got up." I'm sorry, this is the first time that I'm meeting royalty.''

Shining Armor chuckled. "Don't worry about it. We get that all the time, but Cadence is right. You don't have to bow to us. We've been hearing nothing but good things about you Quentin. Any friend of Twily's a friend of mine.''

Shining Armor jabbed Quentin softly on the shoulder as Cadence nodded. Quentin smiled shyly as Pinkie began bouncing in between them. "See Quentin, just a few minutes in the castle and you've already made friends with a prince and princess!'' Pinkie said in her usual, excited tone.

Quentin smiled shyly, averting his eyes to the ground, but quickly looking at Shining Armor. "Wait, did you call me famous?'' he asked, confused.

Cadence nodded. "That's right, in one of Twilight's letters, she told us how you stopped a wild chimera from destroying Ponyville. We were quite impressed to say the least.''

Quentin blushed. "Oh well I didn't do much. It was my friends that did the real work.''

Applejack grinned, nudging her friend. "Aw he's jus' bein modest. He really showed that big galoot not ta mess with our town.''

"Yeah, Q here kicked that sorry monster's butt all on his own. Great, but I totally could've done it better myself,'' Rainbow Dash winked at Quentin, putting an arm around him.

Quentin rolled his eyes and smirked at the bold Pegasus's fanfaronade. "And let's not forget Quentin saved my and Applejack's little sisters and Scootaloo. He's a real hero,'' Rarity said, giving the stallion her glamorous smile.

Quentin's face was really starting to heat up now. Shining Armor looked impressed by his accomplishments. "Whoa, that IS an impressive story. Now we know who to call if a dragon attacks the Crystal Empire.''

Twilight and her friends all shared a laugh with the royals and Quentin too joined in lightly, starting to feel comfortable again. The seven ponies got themselves settled in. Quentin had a feeling that they would be here for a while, but he didn't mind. Quentin was already having a wonderful time in Canterlot. They decided to eat lunch in the extravagant dining room. As the group of friends walked in, Quentin took Twilight to the side for a moment.

"Hey Twilight?'' he asked, trying to keep his voice down.

"Yes Quentin?'' Twilight replied.

Quentin asked, ''Um in that letter you sent to Shining Armor and Princess Cadence...what else you mentioned to them?''

Twilight looked at the stallion as if trying to understand the question and she could see the worried expression on her friend's face. She smiled warmly, knowing what Quentin was afraid of and she responded. "Don't worry Quentin. I didn't mention anything about you coming from another world.''

Quentin sighed, relived and smiled. He didn't want to draw much attention to himself so he was grateful for the secrecy. The two then joined the others in the hall and Quentin sat next to Shining Armor and enjoyed conversation as Twilight, Cadence, and the rest of their friends chatted with each other.

"So Quentin, from what your friends said, it sounds like you can really handle yourself. Do you have any previous training history?'' The prince asked the human.

Quentin didn't need any thinking for that answer. He had seven years' worth of karate back on his world, and he was pretty damn good at it if he did say so himself. But Quentin decided not to say anything about his native home. "Well...sort of. A friend of my family taught me how to defend myself back at home,'' Quentin answered. In truth he hated to lie, but he knew it was probably for the best if he withheld the fact that he was actually a human from another world.

Shining Armor nodded. "Ah I see, and where did you come from again?''

"Fillydelphia,'' Quentin answered.

"So I guess you would run into trouble a few times in Fillydelphia huh?'' Armor asked, resting an elbow on the table.

"Tell me about it. Some bullies would came about and always make trouble for me. So I could either just sit there or let them pound my face in, or I could learn how to kick their asses.'' Quentin said, but suddenly brought a hoof to his mouth and looked at Armor wide eyed. He thought he probably should never curse in front of royalty.

"Um sorry about my language,'' he apologized, but Shining Armor just laughed.

"It's fine really. Twilight was right, you are a modest guy, but you don't need to be so uptight around us.''

Quentin smiled sheepishly at the unicorn. "So I guess it you've had some training too?'' he asked.

Armor nodded with a grin. "Yep, I had to if I was going to be the Captain of the Royal Guard.''

"You were a captain?!'' Quentin asked, raising his voice a little.

Shining Armor nodded. "Yep, it was always my dream to serve in the Royal Guard. But never would I have thought that I would rise to the ranks and actually be the captain,'' Armor grinned, but with humility in is voice.

Quentin just stared at the unicorn, then he let out a chuckle. "Twilight studying under Princess Celestia. You being a knight and eventually becoming a prince, guess your family are destined for greatness.''

Armor laughed. "Maybe...but I think it's more about luck I guess.''

Armor and Quentin continued to converse. Though he was more comfortable talking to a royal, he would still fidget occasionally and bashfully averted his eyes. Usually, he would wait for Shining Armor to speak first and start a conversation He hadn't notice that the girls were giving them occasional looks and whispering to each other. When Quentin peered over to them to find them looking at him, they instantly averted their eyes, giggling as they did so.

"Wonder what they are talking about?'' the human asked, raising an eyebrow.

Shining Armor shook his head. "Who knows...girls.''

The group of girls continued to giggle when Cadence spoke. "Quentin's still so reserved and quiet around Shining Armor. He is quite shy isn't he?''

"Yes, and he's really kind and gentle, and sweet too,'' Fluttershy said softly with a smile.

Rainbow Dash grinned. "Yeah totally, I mean he can be quiet and timid at times, but he can be tough and brave when he needs to be!''

"Couldn't agree more Rainbow. Quentin's definitely the strong, quiet type,'' Applejack added, smiling at Quentin fondly.

Rarity stroked her lovely mane, a graceful smile on her face. "And let's not forget how much a gentle colt and respectable Quentin is to others. Unlike a certain OTHER stallion!'' Rarity then seethed on her last few words.

Rainbow Dash sighed. "Here we go again,'' she thought.

"Yep and he's just so fun to be around with. It's like every day it's a party with him!'' Pinkie Pie said in that cheerful disposition of hers.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Pinkie, with just you alone it's a party every day.''

The girls laughed, causing Shining Armor and Quentin to give them weird looks. Armor smirked and went over to his wife.

"Alright, what are you girls talking about?'' Armor asked, wrapping his forelegs around Cadence.

"Umm, nothing. Just having a little girl talk,'' Cadence teased her mate.

''Yeah Armor. Is there a law about girls having a friendly conversation with each other?'' Twilight grinned, nudging her brother.

Shining Armor pretended to think, ''Well...we are in charge of Canterlot for now you know. I think I can pass a law like that.''

"Well if you do, then you'll have a good old fashion filly revolution on your hooves then!'' Rainbow Dash responded, crossing her arms.

They all laughed. They finished their lunch and decided to head outside to the gardens. The group were all pretty much doing various activities. Rarity lounged about pool, sunglasses on and tanning with a sun reflector in her hooves. Fluttershy was happily busy with some birds and other critters of the garden, occasionally vocalizing in short songs. Pinkie Pie was trying her best to make the stern and serious guards laugh or even crack a smile. With Pinkie, she used the most outlandish attempts for this cause, confetti, sparklers, streamers, anything to get them to lose their bearings.

Rainbow Dash was zipping through the air at high speeds. She was most likely practicing some new moves to show off to the ponies back in Ponyville. Applejack was under a cool, shady tree, sound asleep taking a nap. Shining Armor and Quentin watched some of the guards as they went about their training regime. Commands of 'about face' and 'a-ten-hut' and 'forward march rang out as dozens of gold clad guard ponies did the actions that was commanded upon.

Twilight and Cadence stood at the ledge of a balcony, overlooking the gardens. "So Cadence, I hope the Crystal Empire is doing ok without you and Shining Armor,'' Twilight spoke to her longtime friend."

Cadence nodded with a small smile. "Yeah it is. We've left very capable ponies in charge while we are here.'' Cadence face then fell and she turned her gazed outward among the garden.

Twilight tilted her and with a concerned look before saying,'' Cadence, what is it? Is something wrong?''

Cadence didn't respond at first, then she turned to Twilight with a worrisome eyes. "It's just, I don't understand why Princess Celestia would call on us on such short notice. The letter she sent us was short and didn't have much explanation as to why she and Princess Luna would leave.''

Twilight listened with empathy as Cadence continued. "I mean, I know those two are powerful and can more than capable of protecting themselves, but I still worry about my two aunts.''

Twilight nodded, placing a hoof on her shoulder. "Believe me Cadence, I know how you feel. There isn't a day that went by after I learned of the two princess's departure do I not think about them.''

"Do you know why they left so suddenly?'' Cadence asked.

Twilight thought for a moment, careful of what to say. "Well, it may not make much sense, but Celestia been having disturbing visions and she and Luna left in hopes of solving what they mean.''

Cadence looked at Twilight with a bewildered expression. "Visions? About what?''

Cadence looked at Twilight, as if she was trying to comprehend what she had just told her. She then lowered her head and averted her eyes to the floor. Twilight smiled softy as she spoke.

"Don't worry Cadence. If both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are investigating this, then there's nothing to be worried about. I mean they've defeated powerful enemies in the past to save Equestria, I know that they won't fail if something threatens Equestria again.''

Cadence gazed into Twilight's intelligent eyes and smiled. "I guess your right Twilight.''

Twilight nodded. "I know I'm right. Besides, Princess Celesita and Princess Luna can control the sun and moon. There's nopony that can match their powers.''

Cadence laughed. "That's true I suppose. You're right Twilight, I just need to have faith that everything will turn out right. Thanks.''

Cadence smiled warmly at her sister in law and Twilight returned the smile. "Anytime. Anything for my favorite sister in law.''

"I'm you're only sister in law!'' Cadence laughed.

Twilight grinned. "The more reason I'm glad that I could cheer you up.'' They both shared a laugh and embraced each other.

"I'm really glad to be able to see you again Twilight,'' Cadence whispered in her ear.

"I know, it's always great to see family,'' Twilight smiled. As the two embraced, Twilight's face fell with a mixture of sadness and uncertainty as she thought about her mentor.

Shining Armor and Quentin watched as a stocky unicorn pony with a black coat and tail clad in gold and purple armor directing some of the other guards. "Whoa, that guy is tough,'' Quentin muttered as the pony called for them into attention.

Shining Armor chuckled. "I'll say, but I guess that's why Rapier is such an effective captain.''

"You know him?'' Quentin asked, looking at the unicorn.

Armor nodded. "Oh yeah, he was my second in command when I was the captain. He trains the new recruits that comes in and let me tell ya, he's no joke. Sometimes I can't believe I survived my time with him.''

The human turned earth pony looked at Armor and gazed at Rapier as he pushed the recruits to do strenuous exercises. "Wow, and I thought the Marines were tough.''

Armor looked at Quentin with a perplexed expression. "Uh, what are 'Marines'?''

"Crap!'' Quentin thought to himself.

He did not want to let him in on anything from his world so he quickly changed the subject. "Uh nothing, forget about. I was just thinking out loud!'' Quentin chuckled nervously.

"Oooookay?'' Armor said slowly, giving Quentin a weird look.

The earth pony quickly responded to avoid the awkwardness. "So, I bet you really must've kicked ass when you were a captain.''

Armor smirked, whipping his mane coolly. "Well I don't want to brag, but I bested a pony or two on occasions.''

"I bet you have after all, you would have had a reputation to keep up if you were the captain of Princess Celestia's Royal Guard,'' Quentin grinned. "Of course, I may be a bit shy but when I was pushed too far, I've won a fight or two.''

This prompted an idea to come to Shining Armor's mind. "Really? Well how bout it then?''

Quentin looked at him blankly. "How bout it what?'' he responded, not knowing what the prince meant.

Armor just grinned toughly. "What I mean is how about we test each other. What do you say to a friendly duel?''

Quentin's eyes widened at the suggested. "A duel? You mean...like a fight?!'' he exclaimed.

Armor chuckled. "Don't worry well have armor on of course, and well use training spears, not the real ones.''

Quentin looked at the unicorn stallion uneasily. "I-I don't know Armor. I don't really do great in front of crowds.''

"What crowds? I didn't mean in a publicized area. I meant in the private courtyard.''

The brown equine thought carefully for a moment. Quentin didn't really want to fight anyone really, but then again he's never been challenged by a prince. Quentin also had the dreaded sense that since Shining Armor was a former Captain and was a prince, he was probably the toughest soldier around. On the other hand, he did had a sparring match against Rainbow Dash and he had a blast. Plus He thought that he could probably learn a thing or two about Equestrian combat from one as distinguished as Shining Armor. Quentin gave him a determined smirk.

"All right Armor, you're on!''

"Great, follow me and we'll get suited up,'' Armor said, with a noticeable excitement in his voice.

Quentin followed Armor inside the castle where they met with the others. "Hey you two. What are ya up to?'' Applejack asked.

"Oh Quentin and I agreed to engage in a friendly duel,'' Armor said casually.

The others' eyes widened at the declaration. "You're kidding right?'' Twilight asked with an irritated expression on her face.

Quentin shook his head. "Nope, I'm actually going to duel your brother Twilight.''

"Quentin and Shining Armor are actually going to duel? This is gonna be so AWESOME!'' Rainbow Dash squealed like some sort of fan girl.

"Do you really think this is a good idea? I couldn't bear it if Quentin got hurt from such a competition,'' Rarity said with concern.

Armor chuckled. "Don't worry Rarity, we'll be using the training equipment, not the real deal, so everything will be harmless.''

Rainbow Dash grinned, hovering beside Quentin with a forearm around his neck. "Please, there's no need to worry. Or did you forget that Quentin outsmarted a chimera all by himself? He'll be fine!''

"Well that's true...but,'' Fluttershy squeaked with concern, but Pinkie Pie jumped in.

"Oh I've never seen a duel before. I mean I've seen a magical duel when Twilight went up against Trixie, but NEVER a duel between soldiers!'' Pinkie said.

Quentin shook his head with a small sigh. "Pinkie, I'm not a solider.''

Pinkie giggled. "Oh right, DUH Pinkie Pie!''

"I think I'll be the judge of that,'' Shining Armor said with a smile." C'mon let's go get suited up.

"You always want to show off for people don't you?'' Cadence said to her husband with a smirk.

"What? I'm not showing off. I just want to test the skills of somepony that took down a chimera,'' Armor retorted with a grin.

Cadence gave Armor a 'yeah right' expression as he and his challenger headed off. "That brother of yours,'' Cadence said to Twilight.

Twilight shook her head slowly, ''Hey, you should've known what you were getting yourself into when you said 'I do'.''

Quentin followed Shining Armor through a couple corridors and finally to the castle armory. Within, numerous of gold armor and helmets were placed neatly on shelves that winded around the room. Along with the armors, spears, swords, cross bows, and many other medieval like weapons were carefully secured in place.

"Damn, I wouldn't want to invade this castle,'' Quentin muttered to himself, gazing around at the weaponry.

"Well now that we're here, should we get suited up?'' Shining Armor asked.

Quentin nodded, though a bit uncertainly, "Y-yeah, whatever you say Armor.''

Being that he never worn armor like this, especially in his new, equine body, Shining Armor had to help Quentin slip on the clanky garments. After about ten minutes, Quentin slipped on a helmet that greatly resembled a combination of Greek Corinthian and medieval barbutes, with openings for his pointed ear. Quentin stood before Shining Armor fully clad in his armor and he nodded approvingly with a smirk.

"Nice, that armor sure looks good on you Quentin,'' he said, him too fully dressed in gold armor.

"Thanks Armor,'' the stallion replied, bashfully averting his eyes away.

Armor went over to a closet and opened it, to reveal stocks of wooden staffs. He used his magic, his horn glowing a light rose color to levitate two of the staffs. "Think fast!'' Armor called as he magically threw a staff towards Quentin.

Quentin quickly reacted and caught the staff with the ridges of his wrists just below his hooves. Quentin smiled at the staff, as it resembled the bo staff they he so preferred to use back on Earth. He then proceeded to do a few, but not too elaborate strikes and movements with it which ended with him twirling it around his back giving a strong tap on the ground with one end.

"Nice,'' Armor smiled." Should we get going then?''

Quentin nodded and proceeded to follow the prince unicorn. They walked down a hallway to a pair of double wooden doors. They went through them and found themselves in the palace courtyard. It seemed to be located in the center of the castle. Nothing but lush grass surrounded by the shining palace. Quentin gazed around and to his surprise he found his six friends and Cadence eagerly watching down from a low balcony to their far right.

"Oh my, Quentin looks quite fetching with that armor on,'' Fluttershy said with a faint blush on her face.

"Fetching? Fluttershy Quentin is simply dashing, like a prince!'' Rarity retorted gracefully.

Twilight nodded with an impressed. "I agree, especially with the sunlight complimenting it.''

Applejack stared at the human, the sunlight gleaming off his golden armor. It was like Applejack had never seen anything like it before. Quentin caught a glance at her and with a soft smile, waved at her. Applejack smiled and blush, and waved gently back.

Rainbow Dash grinned at Quentin. "Yeah Q. You go. You're rocking that Armor!'' she cheered.

Quentin really blushed at the comment and looked away shyly.

"Well you ready for this Quentin?'' Armor asked.

"More than I'll ever be,'' Quentin muttered, uneasiness in his voice.

Armor smiled, jabbing his shoulder. "Relax, I'm sure you'll do fine. This isn't life or death, just have fun with it.''

Quentin smirked at Armor. "Sure, I'll have fun with you kicking my ass up and down the field.''

Armor laughed at this and the two trotted out into the courtyard. Almost immediately, cheers were coming from the balcony. "Whoo-hoo! Go Armor! Go Quentin! Yeah!'' Pinkie Pie cheered.

"Sounds like you already have some fans,'' Armor chuckled.

Quentin chuckled sheepishly as they made their way to the center of the courtyard. Armor and Quentin then separated and faced each other as the two prepared to duel. "Well here we go. Let's have a nice, clean duel,'' Armor said, extending a hoof for a hoof bump.

The armor clad earth pony smirked as he spoke, ''Yeah, just for sport.'' Quentin reached out his own hoof and hoof bumped the prince.

They then took stance, Quentin's staff held firmly in his wrist as Armor's was hovering at a diagonal angle in front of him by his magic, each combatant giving each other a generous amount of space.

"And don't worry about me. Come at me with all you got ok?'' Armor said.

Quentin nodded, ''R-Right, d-don't hold back.'' He had a bad feeling he was going to regret those words. Up on the balcony, the six friends looked on silently, preparing for the match.

Cadence grinned to Twilight, ''Well here we go. Boys knocking each other's brains out.''

Twilight giggled as Rarity held a hoof close to her mouth. "I do hope Quentin doesn't get hurt out there.''

Rainbow Dash snorted, ''C'mon Rarity trust me. Quentin's got some skills. He'll be fine!''

Applejack nodded with a smile. "Yeah, he can take care of himself.'' She then reared up and put her front hooves on the ledge and watched intently for the match to begin.

Armor and Quentin stood their ground, a breeze blowing against their coats. They smirked at each other. Even though Quentin was nervous out of his mind and his heart was beating 200 beats a minute, the stallion still had a feeling of excitement that rushed through his body.

"Ready?'' Armor said.

"Set,'' Quentin replied.

"GO!'' the two called simultaneously.

Immediately, Shining Armor's rose aura covered staff lunged forward and attempted to strike Quentin on the head downward. Though he faulted at first, Quentin was able to react and lifted his staff upward and blocked the attack.

"Good block Quentin!'' Armor called.

"Thanks Armor!'' Quentin called back, but Armor smirked and in a blink of an eye, his staff swept him from his hind legs and he flipped over on his back.

Quentin grunted as he tried to readjust his helmet. Back on the balcony, his friends cringed lightly as they watched. "I-I can't watch anymore!'' Fluttershy squeaked, covering her eyes with her hooves.

"C'mon Q, shake it off!'' Rainbow Dash called.

Armor called his staff back to him as the stunned earth pony staggered to his feet. "Always keep your head in the game. Never lose focus when you're in the middle of a match, or in a life or death situation,'' Armor advised.

"R-Right,'' Quentin nodded." Damn, what have I gotten myself into?'' he muttered to himself with gritted teeth.

To his shock, Armor then started to gallop towards Quentin, his staff flying quickly beside him. "Oh shit!'' Quentin thought as he braced himself.

When Armor had gotten close enough to Quentin, he whipped his head across as he commanded his staff to fling a side strike to his target. Quentin stood his ground and parried the strike. He then attempted his own strike to Armor's head, to which he ducked and jumped back. Armor then tried to do the same trick on Quentin again, trying to sweep him by his hind legs, but Quentin learned from his last mistake. Quentin jumped and did a back flip and landed firmly on the ground, evading the attack. Armor, gave him an impressed look.

"Whoa, Quentin nice moves. And you learned from the previous attack!''

Quentin grinned. "Nothing to it Armor.''

Pinkie Pie let out a huge sigh. "Whoo that was sooooooo close!''

"Yee-haw! You show 'em Quentin!'' Applejack cheered.

"That was awesome. Q definitely needs to show me that move!'' Rainbow Dash said happily.

Fluttershy peeked through her hooves to see what was going on. Quentin decided to take the offense and he galloped at Armor. He stood firmly with his staff guarding him in front of him. Armor's challenger decided to give him a melee attack. Quentin did a combination of a low strike, mid strike, and upper strike. Not surprisingly though, Armor managed to block all three attacks, but Quentin wasn't done yet. He then dipped his staff in between Armor's legs and with all his strength Quentin pulled upward, sending Shining Armor flying onto his back with a grunt and a brief clank of his armor. Quentin spun around and gave a satisfied smirked.

"Wow, did you see that?!'' Cadence said, surprised.

"Yeah, I have to admit that was impressive!'' Twilight responded, shocked seeing her brother flipped.

Applejack gave a silent hoof pump, ''Yeah that's it!''

Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie cheered loudly at Quentin's sudden attack. "Oh my, I think...I think I feel a faint coming along!'' Rarity said dramatically, resting an arm across her forehead.

Armor got to his feet and smirk. "Wow, good work Quentin. That was a really clever combination.''

Quentin shrugged a little, ''Well you know, I try my best.''

"But you'll have to do more than that to win. I'm coming for you!'' Armor responded and he galloped towards him.

For the next few moments, Armor and Quentin were locked in combat, striking and blocking each other's attacks. Quentin was surprised he was actually doing quite well. He had never felt so relieved about having staff training back on Earth, and he was thankful that they were paying off. On the balcony, the others cheered both of the combating stallions on.

"Oh nice one Armor!''

"C'mon Quentin, stay strong!''

"Oh that was a close one!''

"Yay!'' Fluttershy would squeak softly

Quentin didn't know how long he and Armor were fighting, but he really didn't care. They were enjoying themselves, calling out playful taunts as they dueled. One point, Armor blocked a strike Quentin executed and countered by lifting him over his back and flipping Quentin on the ground. The human quickly got up and shook off the daze.

"Whoa, Armor's really beasting!'' Quentin thought.

They've been dueling nonstop for a while now and Quentin and Armor faced each other, breathing heavily and their coats damp with sweat. "What's wrong Quentin, getting a little tired?'' Armor smirked, breathing between his words.

Quentin chuckled, ''What? You're not telling me you've gotten a little out of shape since you left being captain Armor?'' he breathed.

The others looked on, leaning forward as they excitedly awaited the conclusion of the duel. "Man this is so close. It's either one's game!'' Rainbow Dash commented.

"I know. Quentin, Armor, Quentin, Armor...I can't take it anymore!'' Pinkie squealed, like she was about to explode from the excitement.

Twilight gulped as she watched of match as Cadence stared on with a hoof close to her mouth. Fluttershy, was still peering through her hooves, all while muttering, "Oh my, oh my, oh my!''

"The suspense...it's KILLING ME!'' Rarity freaked out.

Applejack just watched on, her eyes locked on Quentin. "C'mon Quentin, jus' hang in there!''

Armor and Quentin breathed heavily as they stared each other down until Armor smirked. "So, want to go one more round Quentin?''

Quentin grinned and nodded. "Let's do it!''

They both gave off battle cries as the two galloped at each other, their staffs ready for the final bout. They drew closer and closer until Armor flung his staff for a mid-strike. Quentin was ready to block it, but Armor faked out and struck Quentin on his left side of his face. Quentin grunted as Armor continued his onslaught. He then thrusted his staff to Quentin abdomen, causing the earth pony to reel forward and gasp for air, but Armor still wasn't finished. Armor then swung up and hit Quentin under my chin, causing him to fly backwards and land on his back. His friends cringed and let out gasps as Quentin fell to his back.

"Oh dear!'' Twilight muttered. The rest just looked on in shock.

Quentin gritted his teeth and peered through an eye and shot them both open when he saw Armor's staff ascending down from the sky at great speeds. What Quentin did next was just plain instincts. Before the staff could reach him, Quentin rolled over and it dug itself into the ground. Armor called it back to him and Quentin galloped off at him at the same time, grabbing his staff off the ground. Armor staggered backwards, his staff coming to his defense. With all his might, Quentin swung his staff to his shoulder.

Though Armor blocked it, Quentin gritted his teeth and quickly spun his staff over his and sharply flicked it up, causing Armor's staff to fly away from him. Armor gave a shocked expression and Quentin took his chance. He landed a blow to the side of his helmet and another quick one to his other side. Armor grunted as he staggered backwards. This was it, all or nothing. The earth stallion ran forward and with his strength Quentin dug an end of his staff firmly in the ground. With both wrists wrapped around his staff, Quentin kicked off from the ground and swung around his staff, like he was a monkey and his hind legs collided with Armor's chest, sending him flying back a couple feet. His armor clunked at he rolled on the ground and stopped.

Immediately Quentin feared for his safety. "Aw shit!'' he cursed under his breath as he ran to him.

On the balcony, the seven ponies looked dumbfounded, their jaws ajar at what they've just saw.

"Armor, are you alright?'' Quentin asked in worry, running up to him.

Armor lifted himself up and took off his helmet, scratching his head and grunting. "Armor?'' Quentin asked, concerned.

Armor looked up at him. Quentin was preparing for an angry outburst but to his surprise, Armor exclaimed. "Dude, that was awesome. I didn't know you could do that!''

In all honesty, Quentin was boggled by this sudden praise. "W-What?'' was all he could say.

Armor beamed, getting up. "That move you did was incredible. I never would've ever thought about doing something like that, let alone expected it during a duel!''

Quentin just blinked at the stallion, at lost for words. "You mean, you're not mad?''

Armor just laughed. "Why would I be mad? After all, I did say not to hold back didn't I?''

Quentin nodded uncertainly. ''Yeah, but.''

"But nothing. That was probably one of the best duels I've ever had. I guessed you've had some staff training back in your day huh?'' Armor smirked.

The earth pony averted his eyes shyly. "Well kinda, I mean I just sorta analyzed staff fighting during my travel to Ponyville from Fillydelphia'' he lied.

Armor widened his eyes in surprised. "You mean you learned just by observing other ponies fighting?''

Quentin just shrugged.

Armor looked at Quentin, smiled, and patted his back. ''Well whatever the case, you did well out there. You used the unorthodox the win the match today. Useful lesson in the field of battle.''

Quentin smirked shyly. "Oh no, I didn't win the match.''

Armor looked at him with a perplexed expression and chuckled. ''Modest one aren't you? Besides, that's not what they think.''

Armor pointed up to the balcony to see their friends cheering hysterically. Even the usually quiet Fluttershy was jumping up and down cheering loudly. Quentin's face heated as he shyly smiled at them. They galloped down the stairs from the balcony, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash flying, as they all came towards the unicorn and earth pony. In a blur of rainbow colored spectrum collided into Quentin, knocking him down backwards and embraced him tightly.

"Man Q that was so AWESOME!'' Dash squealed, tightening her embrace.

Quentin chuckled. "T-Thanks Dash. Now do you mind if I can get up?''

Immediately Rainbow Dash released her human friend and took a few steps back. "Oh my bad. That was a klutzy move,'' Dash laughed sheepishly.

Armor chuckled as he helped Quentin to his feet. "But seriously, what you did was beyond cool!'' Rainbow Dash said, patting his back.

The others agreed. "I must agree with Rainbow Quentin, you were simply magnificent. It was like you were a valiant knight also in your armor,'' Rarity said with her graceful smile, batting her eyes.

Quentin looked down bashfully, not used to so much praise. "C'mon guys it was nothing really.''

"That sure didn't look like nothing to us out there Quentin,'' Cadence smiled. "And besides, it's nice to see another stallion able to knock around some sense into that thick skull of his.''

Armor blushed as he smiled sheepishly. Suddenly, Pinkie Pie bounced excitedly. "They're right Quentin. That was great! Oh when we get back to Ponyville, we'll definitely need to have a Quentin's Duel Victory Party and everypony's invited!''

Quentin just smirked and shook his head at his exuberant friend. Twilight walked forward and smiled. "Wow, Quentin I must say that was impressive. I think you're the first pony I've seen to best my brother in a duel.''

"Great first my wife and now my sister's cracking on me too!'' Armor joked and they all laughed.

Quentin turned to Fluttershy, ''Wow Fluttershy that was probably the loudest I've ever heard you. I could even hear you from over hear.''

'' Fluttershy blushed with and adverted her eyes. "Oh I'm sorry was I too loud? I guess I couldn't control myself, it was just I got caught in the moment watching you.''

The human turned stallion chuckled at Fluttershy's modesty. "You don't need to apologize Fluttershy. I'm flattered that you would cheer so loudly for me,'' Quentin replied giving her a one arm embrace.

Applejack walked beside Quentin. "Quentin yur a hard worker, a heck o' a applebucker, and yur good with a staff, is there any other talents ya wish ta share'' Applejack grinned, embracing him with a one foreleg embrace.

Quentin playfully thought. "Well actually, I can't help you with a math problem,'' he joked.

Everyone laughed and Quentin joined in. This was probably the best time he's had in Equestria since he came here. Armor and Quentin decided to get out of their sweaty armor and took a quick shower. Afterwards they all spent a great time with one another, going through town and seeing many of the wonderful shops they had. While the group of friends were out, Quentin found a brilliant ruby gem on the street. It was already cut and polished and was in the shape of a rhombus. He marveled at its beauty and had a plan for what he could do with it later on and I slipped it in his saddlebag. Before they knew it, hours passed and it was half passed five in the afternoon.

They were back at the castle and were all outside on a balcony, overlooking Canterlot. "Wow time does fly by when you're having fun!'' Pinkie said with a smile.

Twilight nodded, somewhat reluctantly, "Yeah I suppose we should be getting back to Ponyville.''

The rest of her friends agreed and Twilight turned to Shining Armor and Cadence with a disappointed gaze. "It seemed we've only been her for a short time to be honest.''

Cadence smiled. "Don't worry Twilight, you'll have plenty of time to visit. Besides, maybe we'll come visit Ponyville next time.''

"That'll be great!'' Twilight beamed and the two embraced. "Make some room you two. You can't leave me out,'' Armor smiled and he joined in the hug with his sister and wife.

The rest of the six friends smiled at the three shared their own little family hug. "Aw isn't that just precious?'' Rarity sighed with a touched glance.

Just as she said those words, a plume of green fire spontaneously combusted in the air not far above them. "What the heck?!'' Rainbow Dashed said loudly as they all took a step back, shocked by the display.

As quickly as the fire came, it extinguished, and a rolled up scroll fell to the ground. "Wait a minute, this came from Spike!'' Twilight said alarmed.

Her friends all voiced their concern as Twilight magically lifted the scroll into the air, her horn and the scroll covered with a magenta glow. Twilight opened the scroll and skimmed through it, her eyes widening.

"Well Twilight, what does it say?'' Pinkie asked eagerly.

It's...from Princess Celestia!'' Twilight answered.

"The Princess!'' the rest cried in unison.

"Well don't keep up in suspense Twi, what does it say?'' Applejack urged the unicorn.

Twilight nodded and read to them the contents.

"My dearest Twilight. I know it's been days since Luna and I have left to find the answers to these troubling visions. Though we haven't fully unraveled the mysteries of these premonitions, we have for now discovered some light to them. It seemed these visions are for some reason centered around the Changeling Queen. You may very well remembered that the last time we faced her she and her army of Changelings tried to take over Equestria, but was ultimately defeated. However, I bring grave news that last night she and her army has attacked the kingdom of Kal-Equa and stole a very precious gem that may be the key to their flourishing state...and survival. I don't know what the Queen may be planning with this gem, but I know for certain it can't be good. My student and her faithful friends, be prepared to use the Elements of Harmony should that foul Queen ever returned to Canterlot. Luna and I send our love to you and our loyal subjects.

Signed Princess Celestia

Twilight finished reading and the rest looked at her in utter shock and horror. For Quentin, it was more of bewilderment. "Changeling Queen? Kal-Equa?'' he thought to himself quizzically.

"What that lousy Changeling Queen again?! I thought we handed her ass the last time she tried to take over!'' Rainbow Dash exclaimed angrily.

Applejack frowned. "Yeah, but do ya really think that that was the last time we'd see the last of her and her creepy army?''

Rarity shuddered. "Oh those horrid things. I still can't believe I actually touched one of those creatures Bleah!''

Armor and Cadence frowned at each other. "So it's her again?'' Cadence muttered, a look of disgust on her face.

"Yes, she trying to start trouble again. Why does scum like her never learn their lesson when they've been put in their place?'' Shining Armor growled.

Pinkie Pie gasped. "Do you think she is trying to absorb more love so she can attack Canterlot again?''

Twilight shook her head, frowning. "I'm not sure Pinkie, though it is possible. But why does she need a gem, and what does that gem do exactly? It doesn't make sense.''

"D-Did the Princess say that the Changeling Queen attacked Kal-Equa?'' Fluttershy asked, fear in her voice.

Twilight nodded solemnly. Quentin looked around, the mood dark. "So will someone please tell me what the heck is going on?" he finally blurted out.

Everyone looked at the male earth pony. "Oh yes that right Quentin, you probably don't know what we're talking about,'' Twilight answered.

Quentin nodded while Armor blinked, "Wait Quentin, you don't know about the attack on Canterlot? Just about everywhere in Equestria knows about it.''

Quentin looked around awkwardly, and smiled nervously. "Oh well...hehe you see well-'' he began, trying to come up with a story.

Thankfully, Applejack grinned sheepishly and jumped in. "Ya see, Quentin here didn't get out much back in Fillydelphia. Like he was livin' under a rock.''

The six friends smiled nervously and tightly, nodding but Pinkie Pie scratched her head in thought. "Um wouldn't Quentin be too big to live under a-ouch!'' Rainbow Dash had nudged Pinkie in the ribs, still smiling tightly.

Shining Armor and Cadence gave each other weird looks. "Ooook,'' Cadence said, still giving the seven friends an awkward gaze.

They then proceeded to tell Quentin their history with this Changeling Queen. Quentin learned that Changelings were creatures that had the ability to take the form of others. They told him how she kidnapped Cadence and took her form in order to brainwash Armor and to absorb their love, increasing hers and her followers' power to be able to take over Canterlot and eventually all of Equestria. However, they're plans crumbled when Shining Armor and Cadence used the power of love to defeat them and send them flying from the castle.

Quentin looked at them in disbelief from the story. He then spoke, after snapping out of his gaze. "So...do you think that this Changeling Queen is out for revenge?''

"I wouldn't put it pass her darling. She is a completely evil being that would not take her defeat last time so lightly,'' Rarity answered with a frown.

"And what about this place...uh Kal Equa was it?'' Quentin asked.

Twilight nodded sadly. "Yes, Kal-Equa is a kingdom like Equestria. The history books say that Equestria and Kal-Equa have been allies for centuries. I've never been there but I've read that impurities don't exists in Kal-Equa. Some even call it the Kingdom of Light because it's radiant with generosity and balls of light showers beautifully down onto the city.''

Quentin looked on impressed by the description of such a kingdom. Cadence nodded. "Yes I've always here such great things about Kal-Equa, who would ever want to attack it?''

Rainbow Dash frowned, ''That Changeling Queen apparently. First she tried to take over Equestria, now she attacks Kal-Equa?! When I get my hooves on her!''

"Calm down Rainbow,'' Applejack began. "Remember, we defeated em' before an' we can sure as heck do it again!''

Pinkie agreed happily. "Yeah, AJ's right. If we just stick together, then there's no way that meanie creepy pants of a queen will ever win!''

The rest of the friends voiced their agreement. Quentin smirked at their determination, and felt the warmth of their friendship. For a peaceful kingdom, a lot of shit had went down in Equestria. Armor and Cadence smiled at the ponies.

''Now didn't I say that it'll embarrassed me if you keep saving my rump Twily?'' Armor grinned.

Twilight gave him an amused smiled. "Well somepony has to save your rump when the worst happens.''

Shining Armor laughed. The seven Ponyville friends decided to gather their belongings and Shining Armor and Cadence saw them off at the train station. As Quentin's friends boarded the train, Shining Armor stopped him, ''Hey Quentin got a second?''

"Yeah sure what's up?'' Quentin inquired, stepping off the train.

"Listen, I know Twilight can be headstrong at times. And I know she knows a ton of spells and was trained personally by Princess Celestia but...'' he trailed off his lasts words as Quentin listened intently, eager to learn what the captain, turned prince was implying.

Armor then looked at the human with a somewhat worried gaze, ''But with the situation at hoof, the princesses gone and the Changeling queen planning something...who knows what could happen so I have a favor to ask: please look after Twilight for me.''

Quentin was not expecting such a request. Here he was a mere human turned pony who Shining Armor just met a few hours ago was placing his trust in him to look after his younger sister. Quentin stared at the unicorn before forming a serious expression and nodded.

''I will Shining Armor, I promise.''

Armor and Cadence smiled relieved. "Thank you Quentin. Twilight and I just became sisters, I don't ever want to lose her,'' Cadence said tenderly.

"No need to thank me Cadence, Twilight has been nothing but good to me since I came to Ponyville. The least I could do is protect her.''

Shining Armor smiled calmly. ''You're a great fighter Quentin. Trust in our skills and they will take you far. I know my sister is in good hooves by your side.''

Armor then extended is hoof to Quentin who knew exactly what he wanted and Quentin smirked as he extended his own hoof and they gave each other a brohoof bump. "Hehe, thanks Armor.''

Quentin, Shining Armor, and Cadence said their goodbyes and boarded the train. Again, the friends were able to get a car to themselves at the very back and took their seats. Within moments, the train jerked forward as it started to pull away from the platform, Quentin and the rest of their friends waving at Shining Armor and Cadence. It wasn't long until they passed the Canterlot checkpoint and were riding along the mountain side. Since Quentin was asleep coming up here, he didn't get the chance to view the beautiful mountain scale. To the stallion's slight embarrassment, Rainbow Dash kept talking about how he beat Shining Armor and imitated his moves as the others grinned, but Quentin noticed Twilight wasn't listening to her. In fact, she looked as if she was thinking deeply about something. Quentin shook his head and returned to gazing out the window.

About halfway through the trip, his gaze was interrupted by a voice. "Lovely view isn't it?''

Quentin turned to find Rarity smiling at him. "Yeah you're telling me. I can't believe I've missed this on the way up here,'' he said, smiling at the unicorn.

Rarity replied with a giggle took a seat across from the stallion.

"So what's up Rarity?'' her friend asked.

Rarity smiled. ''Oh nothing darling, I just thought that maybe I could sit with you and chat for a bit.''

Quentin nodded. "It's cool with me. It's always nice to have a bit of company, especially from one as beautiful as yourself.''

Rarity gave him a warm smile, blushing a bit. "You always have the sweetest thing to say Quentin.'' Rarity then gave a frown. ''If only that arrogant, sorry excuse for a prince Blueblood was more like you!''

Quentin looked at Rarity with a slight, perplexed frown. He thought this Blueblood guy must've been a real jerk to make Rarity to have all this animosity towards him. "This Blueblood must've really pissed you off huh,'' Quentin finally asked.

Rarity looked at the brown earth pony, almost fuming. "Pissed...Pissed?! Pissed isn't close to what I felt how he treated me!''

Quentin looked at his unicorn friend sympathetically and got up and sat beside her. "Well I have two ears that work, do you mind telling me?''

Rarity sighed, but softened a bit. "Yes, I don't mind telling you about that dreaded experience.''

Rarity then proceeded to tell Quentin how she met Prince Blueblood at something called the Grand Galloping Gala, a royal ball held yearly at the castle where usually the high classed ponies and the invited attend. She told him how she expected him to be her Prince Charming, but his actions that night was anything but charming. Instead of picking a rose for her, he instead picked it for himself. He gave himself a comfortable pillow to sit on while carelessly not offering one to Rarity. Shocking more, he made Rarity use her shawl to cover up a puddle of water on the floor to walk on, expected her to hold open the door for him, AND he used her as a shield to protect himself from a cake that was hurling towards them due to an ensuing chaos.

Quentin looked at Rarity with shock and disgust as she recalled the events. What really got his insides bubbling was the Blueblood had the nerve to openly insult Applejack's treats she was selling them at the Gala. She and her family makes some of the best food Quentin had ever eaten. Hearing someone insult Applejack like that so bluntly was someone that should watch their back if they ever met him.

"How could he? Did he even complimented you at ALL during the evening?'' Quentin asked Rarity a bit outraged.

She shook her head with an angry expression. "Not a single one even after all the hard work I've spent on my dress!''

Quentin could see that despite her fury, Rarity was hurt that her dream man was such a pompous dick to her. The stallion just leaned in and wrapped his forelegs around her.

"I'm sorry you had to endure such a prick Rarity,'' Quentin whispered empathetically.

Rarity closed her eyes and returned the embrace. "It's not your fault Quentin. For all it's worth, I've learned a valuable lesson that night. Just because one is a prince doesn't mean that he'll act like one.''

Quentin faced her with a soft smile. "Well you deserve a prince Rarity. You're heart shines with generosity and grace, and that Blueblood guy was too stuck up to realize that he lost the chance a great thing.''

Rarity looked touched by his words. "What? Do you really mean that Quentin?''

Quentin smiled and nodded. "Totally. He wasn't good enough for you.''

Rarity blushed and smiled, averting her eyes.

"Oh which reminds me!'' Quentin suddenly remembered. He got up and took his saddlebag from under his seat. Rarity watched with curiosity and Quentin turned around and sat next to her, hiding something behind his back.

Quentin, what do you have behind-'' Rarity began.

The dreadlocked pony smiled as he answered, ''It may not be a rose, but it's just as pretty as one.'' He then presented the ruby that he found.

Rarity gasped, speechless from its magnificence. "Quentin...where on earth did you get this?!''

Quentin smiled shyly. "I found it on the ground while we were roaming the city. When I saw it, I immediately thought about you. Surly a beautiful gem like this should be owned by an even more beautiful pony.''

Rarity just looked at him in speechlessness when Quentin said those words. She couldn't believe what she had just heard. Quentin took her hoof and placed the ruby in it. "It's perfect for you,'' he said softly with a kind smile.

Rarity continued to stare at her stallion friend. "Y-You really want me to have this Quentin?'' she asked.

Quentin nodded. "Yes, plus it's the least I could do for making that awesome outfit for me.''

Rarity looked down at the ruby and then at Quentin and smiled fondly. "Oh Quentin, even though I said I wanted nothing in return for making those clothes, you still had the need to give me a gift.''

Quentin averted his eyes sheepishly. Rarity leaned forward and embraced him. "Thank you Quentin. This the most thoughtful gift anypony has ever given me. I feel lucky to have a sweetheart like you for a friend.''

Quentin chuckled softly as he embraced her. "It's nothing really.''

Rarity then surprised him by planting a kiss on his cheek. "But it is dear. You may not be a prince, but if you were, you'd you put that lout Blueblood to shame. You would be twice the prince he'd ever be,'' Rarity responded sincerely.

Quentin was taken about by this comment. Rarity actually compared him to a prince. He smiled warmly as he hugged the unicorn. Quentin didn't notice Applejack had been watching them the whole time and she had a very somber look on her face and turned away and faced out the window. After an hour, Ponyville finally came into view and the train screeched to a halt in front of the station. The seven friends gathered their belongings and stepped off the train. It was now past six and it was beginning to sunset.

"Well that was certainly a lovely visit wasn't it?'' Fluttershy asked, smiling softly.

"You betcha Fluttershy! And it was even more special with Quentin coming with us!'' Pinkie Pie said excitedly bouncing.

The rest agreed. Quentin chuckled as he shook my head. "No, girls. I'm really nothing special to be honest.''

The six ponies looked at each other and then smiled at their stallion friend in unison. "Well you've been special to us Quentin,'' Twilight remarked.

"Yeah. You've been so awesome to get to know and even though you've only been here a couple days, I'm glad to have an awesome guy like you for a friend!'' Rainbow Dash said.

Pinkie bounced happily. "Yeah. Plus you're the first human to ever come to Equestria. That makes you even more specialer! Wait is that even a word? Can anypony be more than special? Of course they can, so specialer HAS to be a word!''

Rainbow Dash then placed a hoof over Pinkie Pie's mouth, but the silly pony continued talking, though with muffles as she made an assortment of gestures with her forelegs. The rainbow maned Pegasus rolled her eyes as Applejack walked forward with a soft smile.

"I couldn't said it better myself. I-well we're thankful that you came to Equestria Quentin.''

The others nodded. Quentin felt especially touched by Applejack's words. Out of all of them, he valued her opinions the most. They all walked out of the station and towards the town square.

"Well guys, that was a mighty fine time we've had today,'' Applejack spoke with a smile.

The rest of the friends agreed. "It was wasn't it? But I guess I should get back home and start dinner for Spike,'' Twilight said.

"Yes, the same goes for Sweetie Belle and my little Opal,'' Rarity added.

"And I need to tend to my animal friends for the night. I promised Angle bunny that I'd make him a special salad for dinner tonight,'' Fluttershy said, hovering off the ground.

Pinkie bounced, ''Oh and I need to babysit Mr. and Mrs. Cake's twins!'' She then sped away leaving behind a trail of smoke. The others just looked at each other awkwardly and in the next second Pinkie came back. "Bye guys!'' she said and dashed away again.

Quentin scratched his head. "Seriously, how does she do that?'' he pondered.

"Yeah,'' Rainbow Dash said slowly." I'm gonna head out too. See ya guys later.''

Quentin, Applejack, Twilight, Rarity, and Fluttershy gave their goodbyes to the fast Pegasus. Before she left, she gave Quentin a rather nice smile a wave and the stallion smiled warmly and waved back. In the next second, she was speeding away through the sky a trail of rainbow following her. The rest of the group bit each other goodbyes and parted ways, Applejack and Quentin headed back to Sweet Apple Acres. As Twilight was heading back to the library, someone called her name. She turned around to see Mayor Mare trotting to her. Twilight smiled politely.

"Mayor Mare good evening. What can I do for you?''

The mayor came to her and sighed relieved. "Oh Twilight I'm glad to have finally found you,'' Mayor Mare said.

"Why, is something wrong?'' Twilight ask with concern.

Mayor Mare smiled and shook her head. "No everything is just fine. But I must asked you for a favor.''

Twilight blinked blankly before speaking. "Y-Yes of course I'll do my best to help. What is it do you need me to do?''