Canterlot was quiet after the unexpected invasion by the changelings and Queen Chrysalis. Ponies tried to make sense of the attack. Some were receiving medical attention why others consoled each other. Buildings were damaged, while green, sticky substances resembling the chrysalis of an insect covered spots throughout the city. What's worst, Chrysalis had succeeded in her goal at obtaining the mysterious 'Reality Gem' thus giving her a total of five of the even more mysterious Cosmic Gems.

Quentin, Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Spike were in the destroyed ballroom, talking amongst themselves about what just occurred.

"Just look at this place! This once beautiful ballroom is nothing but ruins thanks to that horrible queen and her changelings!'' Rarity let out with disappointment and disgust.

Rainbow Dash frowned and spoke, ''Not just that, they attacked Canterlot and anypony in it. I swear those ugly changelings are the worst!''

Twilight spoke with a disappointed frown, ''And Chrysalis was able to get away with that...'Reality Gem'. To be able to grant your wishes, who knows what damage she could be capable of with that power? And these Cosmic Gems...what are they? I've definitely haven't heard about them!''

"Well somethin tells me we aint seen that last o' them changelings. I have a feeling in my bones that's the truth,'' Applejack spoke with a deep, unnerved gaze.

While they talked, Quentin sat in silence and had his head down in shame and guilt, feeling absolutely horrible that he allowed Chrysalis to get the gem. Finally he spoke with a somber tone, ''Girls, I'm sorry.''

His friends looked at him with perplexed expressions. "Sorry? For what Quentin?'' Fluttershy asked.

Quentin thought for a few moments before looking at them and giving an answer, ''It's my fault that Chrysalis has the gem.''

"What?! What are you talking about silly billy?!'' Pinkie Pie chimed happily. It was like her to keep smiling even in stressful times like these, but that's probably why she's the Element of Laughter. Quentin sighed and continued.

'' I had the gem right in my hooves. I even remembered what Fiyorae said about it and used it against her briefly. Maybe if I was smarter, I could've-'' he was suddenly cut off by Applejack bringing me in a tender embrace.

Quentin looked shock and bewildered as his farm pony friend hugged him. The others were also shocked by this action and Applejack broke the embrace and looked into her stallion friend's eyes and spoke in a serious tone, ''Now ya jus' listen ta me Quentin. What ya just said was nothin but a load o' houie. All this ain't yer fault.''

Quentin stared at Applejack, unable to speak words. He then averted his eyes shamefully and spoke, ''But...but I...-''

"But nothin'!'' Applejack cut in again. "In fact, you were mighty brave today!'' Applejack gave Quentin a warm smile as did his friends as they agreed.

"Totally! And the way you handled those changelings earlier, that was so badass!'' Rainbow Dash praised, flinging a foreleg around my shoulders as she gave me a one legged embraced.

Quentin remained silent with a weary expression, still feeling guilty. Rarity spoke up smiling fondly at the regretful human as she added, ''Not to mention you insisted that you come with us, just to make sure that we'd be safe. That was a very noble and chivalrous thing to do...like a knight in shining armor.''

Quentin gave Rarity a slightly shocked look as she compared him to a knight. He gazed down at her left foreleg to see her silver bracelet with the ruby he gave her still around her leg.

"And despite everything Fiyorae did to us and you, you still hoped for him to change his ways without a hint of malice. That was a kind thing to do to somepony,'' Fluttershy spoke with a sweet smile.

Unknown to them, Fiyorae was listening as he hid himself on the side of the hole in the wall, a guilty, shameful look on his face. Twilight spoke up with a tender smile and added.

''And you stood up to Chrysalis and refused to give her the gem, even knowing that you'd be putting your life in danger. That was pretty heroic, at least...it was to me.'' At the last words, Twilight had averted her eyes rather bashfully and Quentin may have seen a faint blush on her cheeks.

Quentin looked at his purple unicorn friend before gazing down in thought and Pinkie Pie said happily, ''See Quentin! You did really amazing, super-duper, fansteriffic things today! That definitely calls for a party when we get back to Ponyville!''

He couldn't help but let out a chuckle as Pinkie Pie made up the word, 'fantasteriffic'. "It was hardly amazing. I just wanted to help my friends out.''

His seven friends smiled at him and Applejack spoke as she put a hoof on his shoulder. "An' I'm glad ya came with us Quen. Ya really are a true friend.''

Quentin smiled warmly at the farm pony and she leaned in and embraced him again. This time Quentin returned the hug and one by one, the rest of his friends joined in until they were in a group hug. Quentin closed his eyes, enjoying the hug with his six, dearest friends. He really didn't want to think about his life without ever knowing them. It seemed like hours that eight were in the group hug until a voice filled with regality and kindness caught their attention.

"Well, this is certainly a lovely sight to see upon returning.''

They all gazed to see Celestia and Luna descending from the air and landing in the center of the ballroom, warm smiles on their faces.

"Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!'' Twilight exclaimed happily as she ran to her mentor and embraced her. "I missed you so much princess. So much have happened when you were gone!'' Twilight spoke softly, tears almost forming as she hugged her teacher.

Celestia sighed with a soft smile, ''I know my faithful student. And I apologize for the unexpected departure. But we're here now, and we will stay with our subjects until this crisis is over.''

Twilight nodded and looked up at her mentor with a sad smile. Her friends then ran happily to their rulers, leaving Quentin behind. When they got close enough, they stopped and leaned forward with their flanks in the air as they gave their princesses a respectful bow.

"Please friends. There is no need to bow,'' Luna spoke, raising a hoof in the air.

The loyal followers stood up as Luna continued with a sort of saddened frown, ''Not after what has happened to our glorious Canterlot.''

Applejack replied sadly, taking off her hat and putting it across her chest, ''Ya tellin us yer highness. Can't believe that somethin like this ever happened. But we're sure as sugar happy that y'all came back.''

Her seven friends agreed. "I just wish that you could've came back at a more...happier time,'' Fluttershy squeaked sadly, gazing around the ruined ballroom.

Celestia sighed regrettably, ''Yes so do we. But the palace is just a building, it can be rebuilt and reconstructed. It's our subjects that we're worried about and more important.''

Rarity nodded with a slight frown, ''I agree princess. While we were busy with business here, who knows how the other ponies out there have fared during the attack.''

Quentin just stood there kind of awkwardly, slouching back shyly as the ponies continued conversing with their rulers. Celestia nodded, ''Yes, we must send out medical attention to assist the wounded but first...''

Celestia shifted her gaze to Quentin, locking eyes with his and the reticent earth pony took a few more steps backwards. "Excuse me, you there.''

The introverted Quentin froze in his place, looked around dumbly before gazing back at Celestia, giving her a blank stare. Celestia smiled softly and nodded, ''Yes you dear, please come forward.''

His friends smiled and gazed at him, eager for him to come to them. Quentin gulped nervously. He was a bit hesitant to approach them, but he was able to walk to his friends and the regal sisters, his head lowered and ears dropped. Thoughts swan rapidly in Quentin's head, he was actually about to meet Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, Equestria's two ruling sisters. What would they say? What would he say? It felt like a mile long walk to the equines until the stallion walked passed Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie, stopping and gazing at Twilight with a worried look. She smiled reassuringly and spoke.

''Don't be afraid. They just want to talk to you.''

Quentin nodded uncertainly, then averting his eyes to the ground before bashfully lifting them at the sisters. At their sight, Quentin' uncertain, slightly frightened expression changed to one of speechlessness and awe as he gazed onto the two sisters, finally getting a good look at the pair now that he was closer up. His gaze first went to Princess Celestia, the larger of the two Alicorns.

Quentin had seen beautiful ponies so far since being here, but Celestia was ungodly gorgeous, no doubt the most beautiful equine in Equestria. Since she was the largest, the stallion guested she was the oldest. Her coat was pure white, like snow save for just a hint of pink and her beautiful eyes were of a magenta color. Her mane and tail were incredibly long and incredibly stunning and to Quentin's disbelief, they were ever billowing, as if they were constantly being blown by a gentle breeze. Along with the nonstop flowing, Celestia's mane and tail were multicolored with strips of light blue, green, purple, and pink and were twinkling with sparkles. Her cutie mark was, obviously an orange sun, being the bringer of the very celestial body. Keeping true to the appearance of royalty, Celestia wore golden shoes on all four of her hooves that branched out to resemble stylized lilies like that of the fleur-de-lis. Around her chest was what seemed to be a combination of a necklace and an armor that was brilliant gold to match her shoes with a purple, diamond shaped gemstone in the center. Her horn was much larger than the regular unicorn's as well as slender and wore a golden, three pointed tiara with a purple, diamond shaped gemstone in the center of the middle, highest point. Quentin also noticed that Celestia was also the largest pony that he's seen with a considerably large wingspan, slender body and lankly legs. In shore she was truly a vision to behold, her beauty that couldn't possibly encompassed by any living being, like a sort of goddess. "P-Princess Celestia?'' Quentin uttered under his breath, entranced by being elder sister's presence.

Quentin's gaze then shifted to the younger of the two that was Princess Luna. Appearance wise, she looked exactly like Celestia though there were obvious differences. Her coat was of a dark blue color with just a touch of grey within it. Her eyes were teal and she wore a light, sapphire blue eye shadow. Like Celestia, Luna's mane and tail were both long and stunning, and were too constantly moving as if they were caught in a gentle breeze. However, Luna's mane and tail color was of a darker shade of sapphire blue and looked as if they were surrounded by a grayish, Persian blue aura but like her sisters were both endlessly sparkles within them. In addition, a thick, single lock of hair hung over her face, something that Quentin actually found quite charming. In fact with these combinations, Quentin felt like Luna's hair and tail was the very night sky itself. On her hooves were pale blue, glittering shoes and on her chest was the same sort of armored necklace Celestia had but was black as night with a crescent moon in the center and like her shoes seemed to glitter. Being the riser of the moon, her cutie mark was a crescent moon that was surrounded by black coloration of sorts and like the coloration a dark tiara rested upon her head. While Quentin believed that Celestia's beauty was second to none, Luna still exuded elegance and beauty that could easily draw others to her. Quentin swallowed lightly before opening his mouth slightly, still speechless at the princess of the night, "P-Princess Luna?''

Celestia had a warm smile on her face while Luna bore a more reserved smile. Quentin tensed up, maybe shaking visibly as Celestia spoke first.

"We saw how you stood up to the queen, refusing to give her the gem. I must say that was very courageous of you.''

Quentin said nothing, still tensed about meeting Equestria's two leading monarchs. Celestia and Luna gave each other perplexed glances and looked at the earth pony awkwardly. "Is something wrong? Are thee well?'' Luna asked, a slight concerned look on her face.

Once again Quentin didn't answer. His friends saw this and Twilight nudged him. The human turned stallion quickly whipped his head to her and she whispered, ''Don't just stand there, answer them!''

Quentin nodded vigorously and he quickly turned his attention back at the sisters. To everyone's surprise, he dropped down as Quentin took a rather awkward, yet humorous bow. "I-I sorry your majesties! I...I just wasn't expecting to meet you so suddenly!''

Celestia and Luna gave each other blank looks before laughing heartily "Is that all?!'' Celestia asked, trying to control her laughter.

Quentin gazed up, worried that he made a fool of himself in front of them and his friends. The two stopped laughing and smiled at Quentin, ''Please, there's no need to be so uptight around us. Just relax and be yourself, ''Celestia said kindly.

Quentin nodded shyly and spoke quietly, ''Y-Yes your highness.'' As Quentin stood up, he heard his six friends giggled behind him, which hardly helped his nerves calm down and an embarrassed blush came to his face. Celestia asked.

''May I ask your name young stallion?''

"Huh, young stallion?'' Quentin thought in confusion, but then remembered that he was a stallion earth pony. "O-Oh r-right!'' he blabbered out." My name is Quentin, you majesty!''

Celestia smiled warmly, ''Quentin...such a unique name. I like it.''

Luna spoke next with a calm smile as she nodded, "Indeed. It is an honor to meet you brave Quentin.''

Quentin gave a small bow as he answered respectfully. "The honor is mine, your highness. I'm humbled to meet the one responsible for creating such beautiful nights.''

Luna closed her eyes with a nod and spoke, "Truly likewise. As my sister has spoken, you were truly brave to- wait, I beg your pardon? What did you just address about my nights? Luna suddenly asked, a shocked expression on her face.

Quentin answered, "I said your nights are absolutely beautiful. I've always liked nights just as much as the day. Such a relaxing and tranquil time and after a hard days' work, it's relaxing listening to the crickets and seeing fireflies light up the darkness every now and then. And don't even get me started on snowy nights-guh?!'' Quentin was suddenly cut off as Luna rushed over to him and embraced him tightly with her forelegs.

"Oh I thank thee dear Quentin. Alas, praise Chiron somepony truly appreciate me and my work. Your admiration shall truly be cherished!'' Luna sounded joyous, hysterical even as she spoke.

Quentin looked back over at Celestia who seemed surprised at first but them tried to stifle an amused laugh as she covered her mouth with a hoof. Twilight and the rest of his also seemed to have been caught off guard by Luna's spontaneous display of affection. Applejack watched on with an awed gaze and spoke quietly.

"Whoa nelly.''

Quentin looked around awkwardly until his eyes fell upon Twilight. Seeing his unsure eyes, she approached him and whispered. "What is it?''

Quentin answered, "What am I supposed to do when royalty hugs me?!''

Twilight replied, though uncertainly. "Um…maybe hug her back perhaps?''

Taking a sort of leap of faith and embracing for the order of being thrown in the dungeon or getting the living daylights slapped out of him, Quentin wrapped his arms around Luna as he gently returned the embrace. As he embraced the princess, one of Quentin's hooves touched Luna's mane and to his surprise found that it was actually solid despite appearing to lack any solid mass whatsoever. Though unsure and nervous at first, Quentin finally began to feel himself become warm and calm while hugging Luna and finally spoke with a sigh.

"Indeed, such beautiful and magnificent nights came only come from a princess that is equally beautiful and magnificent.''

Quentin immediately started to regret those words, as kind and flattering as they may be, he worried that his choice of words were to blunt and that he had offended her. However, Luna giggled and looked at Quentin and he noticed a slight blush on her face. Luna smiled.

"You flatter me so and are too kind. Never have I met a pony that showed me this level of appreciation before. Such an act of first surly must be rewarded.''

Before Quentin could even protest against it, Luna leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. Quentin froze in his place, the sudden act catching him completely off guard. There was quiet in the battle scarred ballroom and Quentin felt all eyes were on him. Though he had been kissed before by the likes of Applejack, Rarity, even Pinkie Pie for the matter but her was never kissed by an actual princess before and he didn't know how to react.

Quentin's thoughts then went to Celestia. How would she take this display? What would she do? What would she say? With reluctance and a twinge of fear, Quentin shifted his eyes at the elder sister. Celestia didn't bore an outraged or disapproving look. In fact, she was just as surprised as everyone else. After a few moments, the princess of the sun finally spoke.

"By the Great Stallion…have you truly made a friend Luna?''

Luna let go of Quentin and smiled at her older sister. "Oh a wondrous friend. A special friend! That is…'' Luna then looked back down to Quentin as her face fell slightly with doubt. "If it is acceptable to you?''

She held out a hoof to Quentin and asked. "Brave Quentin. Kind Quentin. I pray thee. I humbly asked for the honor of being your friend.''

Such a request caught Quentin off guard as he stared dumbfounded at Luna's hoof and into her pleading, beautiful eyes. It was extraordinary. Quentin was only in her company for no more than a couple of minutes and he was already being offered friendship by one of the ruling princesses. Thinking this, Quentin remembered the story he read about her in the library. Being once turned into a genocidal tyrant and being purged of such wickedness, the stallion could only surmise by her level of enthusiasm and dire hope to be his friend stemmed from the fact others still somewhat shunned and was frightened of Luna because of her dark past. Such treatment could've possible caused a sense of loneliness and dejection to fall upon Luna.

Thinking of this, Quentin felt a sense of sympathy for Luna, for he could relate to such lonely feelings himself. With these thoughts, Quentin felt an honored sense, that he could be the first to see Luna at the true, elegant princess that she is and not as a monster she became due to her past sins. Quentin then bowed respectfully to Luna, placing her hoof in his as he smiled softly.

''Someone as regal and elegant as you don't ever need to ask me to be your friend. It would be an honor your Excellency.''

At Quentin's answer, Luna became ecstatic and she beamed at Celestia. "H-He accepts. Did you hear Celestia? He accepted my friendship!'' Quentin heard his friends giggled to themselves at Luna's reaction.

Celestia smiled warmly and spoke. "Indeed I have Luna. Just like I've always told you, if you just be patient and allow others to get to know you, then you'd surly make friends someday. Sometimes the genesis of the strongest, most lasting of friendships could be a simple compliment like Quentin's sincere appreciation on the night you work so hard every day to create.''

Luna then looked at Quentin with a smile and nodded eagerly. Quentin could tell that Luna's overjoyed realization of making a first friend wasn't an over dramatization. She was dead serious about requesting to be Quentin's friend. Celestia then added warmly.

"And I can only pray that you will be true and good to her Quentin, just as I feel like you have been good to Twilight and her friends here.''

At this Quentin's friends smiled brightly. "Good? Your highness, Quentin has been more than just good to us. He's been absolutely wonderful!'' Rarity gushed, giving the stallion a fond smile.

Applejack nodded with a smile, pulling Quentin into a one foreleg embrace, '' Darn tootin! Why Quen here's became true blue ta us. Ya might even say we've became tighter than rope knots with him!''

Quentin may have blushed as he rolled his eyes and averted them as an embarrassed smile on his face. "Yeah Q is super awesome. Like today, he help fight back hoof fulls of changelings. He even stopped a chimera from destroying Ponyville all by himself!'' Rainbow Dash praised, patting Quentin on the back and giving him a wink.

Quentin couldn't help but face hoof himself, really embarrassed by the level of attention he was getting. The story caught both Celestia and Luna by surprised. "Really? I guess so much have happened since we've been away,'' Celestia spoke, somewhat sheepishly.

Luna nodded with a calm smile at her new friend, ''Yes, but a truly impressive story.''

Twilight smiled and was about to speak until Pinkie Pie suddenly popped out of nowhere and started talking really excitedly and REALLY fast, as if she just ate five bags of sugar.

''Quentin here has been a really great guy! In fact he's been a really fun, awesome, super cool, wonderfully wonderful guy! We've had so much fun together, he even works at Sugarcube Corner sometimes with me and we have fun baking lots of yummy treats. Who'd ever thought that humans would be so fun to be with? I mean everyday has been-''

But Celestia and Luna let out utterly shocked gasps, despite Pinkie Pie's rapid speaking, they clearly heard the word 'human' as Pinkie continued her rambling. Quentin and the others had also caught this and gritted their teeth as they gazed frantically at Pinkie and the princesses. They had completely forgotten that they knew nothing about having a human in their land. How would they react?

"Hold on, what did you say just now?!'' Celestia asked in disbelief.

Twilight shoved her hoof in Pinkie's mouth, causing muffled sounds to be heard. "Um, what exactly are you referring to Princess Celestia?'' Twilight asked nervously, obviously trying to stall the issue.

Celestia asked, ''What Pinkie Pie just said, about hu-'' But before Celestia could finish, there was a brilliant bluish white light that caused all of them to shield their eyes.

Just as quickly it came, the light subsided just as quickly and the group all unshielded their eyes to see a unicorn stallion with a sapphire blue coat and horn with snow white flowing mane and a beard with the beard tied towards the center and was wearing a flowing, red cloak with a grey blindfold wrapped over his eyes, that was Arcanus. The unicorn actually looked closer in appearance to Celestia and Luna, thought Celestia was taller than him, while just about the same size as Luna.

Quentin, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Spike all stared quizzically at the guest, but Twilight's expression was that of shock and disbelief, her mouth hanging open as if she haven't seen this visitor in ages. Celestia and Luna had continued to stare a Quentin with curiosity and shock before finally turning their gaze to Arcanus, Celestia smiling warmly at him.

"Um guys, who the heck is this?'' Quentin whispered to his friends, not taking his eyes off the unicorn as he kept his head bowed.

"I was about ta ask the same thing,'' Applejack answer.

Suddenly, Twilight began to speak, stuttering greatly, ''T-T-T-that's...t-t-that's...''

The others all looked at their intelligent unicorn friend, surprised by her behavior. "What's the matter Twilight? Do you know him?'' Fluttershy asked in her soft tone.

Twilight nodded vigorously, ''I-I-I-It can't be! "T-T-That's...''

Before Twilight could finish, Celestia walked passed them and to Arcanus. "Thank you my friend. Your timing with that spell couldn't have been more convenient,'' Celestia spoke with a grateful smile.

Arcanus lifted his head slightly with nodded speaking in his deep voice, ''Yes, changelings are a tenacious bunch aren't they? But my repulsion spell did beautifully extracting them from Canterlot.''

Celestia nodded, ''Quite beautifully.''

She then turned to rest of the friends, standing at Arcanus' side. "My little ponies, it is my pleasure to introduce you to very special pony and a very old friend of ours.'' Celestia was then interrupted by Twilight who spoke loudly, pointing at the blindfolded unicorn.

''That's Arcanus...the Mystic!''

Her friends all stared at Twilight, completely lost at her answer. "Beg yer pardon?'' Applejack responded, raising an eyebrow.

"That's Arcanus the Mystic! Master of magic and the arcane?!'' Twilight responded loudly and frantically, sounding like she couldn't believe that they didn't know who he was. Rainbow Dash scrunched up her face and asked.

''Yeah...and who exactly is Arcanus the Mystic?''

Twilight looked wide eyed before finally gushing out an explanation like the studious pony she was, ''Arcanus was one of the first, if not THE first unicorn to understand the dynamics of magic! He was the mentor to Starswirl the Bearded and though he created over 200 spells, Arcanus the Mystic pretty much set the foundations of modern day magic! He he's the author of hundreds of books, including the fabled Grimmie Ex Mortis, said to contain the most powerful spells known to pony kind! He is the only one to defeat the dark unicorn Blackthorn! His skills and power in magic is unmatched! In fact, legend says that Arcanus is the living embodiment of magic itself! In short, he's pretty much the most powerful unicorn that ever lived, so much that he was titled the Unicorn Supreme!'' Twilight panted heavily as she finished her explanation, the rest of her friends giving her surprised stares.

Finally Quentin spoke with an amazed tone, ''Wow, that is pretty impressive, but wait-'' he then made a look of deep thought. "If he pretty much set in motion of today's magic, doesn't that make him old...real old?''

Twilight lowered her head in thought, a puzzled look upon her face as she brought a hoof to her chin, ''Actually Quentin...you're right. The history books said that he died centuries ago, how is it even possible for him to be alive?''

Arcanus chuckled as she and Celestia approached the eight friends, ''Well, well, it would seem you possess more knowledge about myself than even I do.''

Twilight widened her eyes with shock before slowly turning her head and looking up at the great unicorn. Arcanus spoke with a calm smile, his head looking downward, ''You must be Twilight Sparkle? You teacher and mentor Princess Celestia told me a lot about you. She even told me that you are quite gifted in the art of magic.''

Twilight stammered as she spoke, ''I-I-I...w-well...yes I am. I mean about being Twilight Sparkle Mystic one!'' Twilight gave a rather humorous bow.

Celestia glanced over at Arcanus and smirked, ''I had a feeling she'd react this way.'' This caused Quentin and the rest of his friends to snicker to themselves.

"I never took Twilight of being a fan girl, '' Quentin commented, trying to hold back a laugh.

"You and I both!'' Rainbow Dash responded next to him, snickering uncontrollably.

Twilight apparently heard the two and flashed them an irritated look. Arcanus smiled calmly, ''Arise Twilight Sparkle, there is no need for such demonstration.''

Twilight smiled sheepishly and stood back up as Rarity spoke, ''Well great Arcanus, as a unicorn I feel rather silly by not being familiar to a unicorn of your standards. And as a unicorn I feel honored to be standing in your presence.''

Rarity gave a graceful bow, but Arcanus shook his head. "Please do not bow Miss...''

"Rarity sir,'' Rarity answered.

Arcanus smiled, ''Miss Rarity, there is no need to bow to me, though I do appreciate yours and Twilight Sparkle's respect.''

Twilight and Rarity nodded with a smile and Rarity spoke, ''However, there is one thing I would like to say, if you don't mind Master Arcanus.''

"Yes?'' Arcanus asked.

At those words, Rarity blurted out enthusiastically, ''I just wanted to say I absolutely LOVE your cloak! Such craftcoltship, and those symbols really bring out the enigmatic presence about you. Who may I asked designed such a lovely manteau?!''

Her friends all rolled their eyes playfully as Rarity bombarded Arcanus with her passion for fashion. "Oh lordy here we go,'' Applejack giggled playfully.

Arcanus at first looked surprised by the praise before finally giving a light laugh, "Well Miss Rarity, I'd be happy to tell you but first...'' Arcanus then frowned sternly, gazing to Celestia. "I believe that Canterlot and its citizens must be addressed.''

Quentin, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity all sort of gave faint gasps as they remembered the invasion that just happened. Luna walked up to her sister, both with serious glances and nodded.

"Yes, we must attend to the wounded and let all know of our return, Luna spoke firmly.

Celestia nodded and spoke with a resolute tone. "Yes Luna. We must see to it that those that require medical attention gets it. And Canterlot itself...''

"Allow me to tend to Canterlot Celestia,'' Arcanus spoke in his deep, resonating voice.

The Ponyville friends all looked at Arcanus surprised while Celestia and Luna had a more calmed looks on their faces. Celestia then nodded, ''Very well, please do what you can.''

Arcanus nodded silently and bowed his head. In moments, his horn began to glow a mystical, billowing, bluish white aura. Everyone watched eagerly as a ball of energy with the same color began to form at the tip. The ball grew bigger and bigger until suddenly, it quickly expanded, the bearers of Harmony and Quentin let out brief gasps as the bluish white energy moved passed them, giving a rather cool, yet tingling sensation for a brief moment.

The energy continued to expand throughout the room, then the entire castle, and out into the streets until all of Canterlot was surrounded by a bluish white, sparkling sphere that kept pulsing a ripple every few seconds. The ponies of Canterlot murmured in perplexity as the city was enveloped in the strange sphere.

"Hey what's going on?!'' Rainbow Dash exclaimed, examining herself.

Quentin too looked on in bewilderment as did his friends until he noticed something that made him speak up, ''Look!"

The rubble and debris that covered the ballroom began to rise and piece themselves back to the walls and ceiling. Pillars were magically reconstructing themselves as the cracks, craters, and every other parts that were damaged were being mended. Outside throughout Canterlot, buildings and spires were being fixed, while the gooey chrysalis' that covered some parts began shrinking and evaporating into nothing, causing ponies to chatter in confusion and awe.

"I-I don't believe it!'' Twilight spoke in astonishment, gazing around the area. "Arcanus...is fixing everything that's been damaged and destroyed during the invasion!''

Quentin gazed at the powerful unicorn, his head bent downward ever so slightly as his horn now glowing a more brilliant light. Despite single handedly restoring the city to its former glory, he didn't display the slightest symptoms of fatigue, in fact, he didn't look like he was even exerting any effort. Now that was power. Celestia and Luna gazed around their restoring ballroom, looking intrigued by the most of it, yet at the same time not being entirely surprised by Arcanus' feats.

The seven ponies and dragon all voiced their opinions in awe as they continued to look around. In honesty, the light as well as the occasional pulsing of light gave off an enchanting, ethereal display to it. They didn't know how much time went by, but finally, the sphere began to disappear, the light beginning to fade away until the only light radiating was the light from the afternoon sun. Everything in the ballroom, castle, and Canterlot had been repaired and restored, as if nothing happened just a few moments ago. Quentin even saw a few twinkles of light along the polished floor and throughout the ballroom as if it had just had the cleaning of the century.

"My word, just look around. The floor, the ceiling, pillars, and windows...why they're good as new!'' Rarity gasped.

"I don't believe it...Arcanus restored everything like it was!'' Twilight spoke softly but with awe.

Quentin nodded, amazed, ''It's like the changelings haven't even been here.''

Celestia and Luna gave each other warm smiles and gazed at Arcanus, whose horn dimmed and finally faded. Twilight spoke softly, ''Wow, I guess everything the books and scrolls said about Arcanus is true, I don't ever think I've seen such display of power before, and with such ease!''

Rainbow Dash nodded with an impressed smirk, ''Yeah that was totally, undeniable bada-HMPH!''

Before Rainbow Dash could finished that last statement, Applejack put a hoof over her mouth with a firm look. "Maybe ya should watch yer French while in the presence o' the princesses?'' she said wisely, pointing at Celestia and Luna.

Rainbow Dash smiled sheepishly, scratching her right shoulder with her left hoof. "Yeah, right...my bad.''

Quentin chuckled at his Pegasus mare friend and shook his head. Suddenly Pinkie Pie exclaimed joyously, ''WHOO-HOO! Everything's fixed. This calls for a Canterlot's Been Restored Party!''

Out of nowhere, the silly pink pony took out her party cannon and pressed the red button, causing it to fire confetti, balloons, and streamers around them. The others all blinked blankly, as the party favors fell around them. Even Celestia and Luna seemed surprised and lost for words at the randomness of the party animal pony, while Arcanus just stood there with his head slightly downward, on the count of having a blindfold and possibly being blind. Quentin let out a half laugh and spoke.

''Wow...seriously, how DOES she do that?!''

Rainbow Dash answered, ''Pinkie Pie...you are SO random!''

Pinkie responded by bopping her head lightly with a hoof and briefly and playfully sticking out her tongue before giving a cute smile. Luna spoke in a rather serious tone.

''As delightful as that may sound Miss Pinkie Pie, there are still some matters we should deal with.''

Celestia nodded, "Yes, there are still the wounded and injured that needs attending to.''

That's when Twilight gasped with a realization, ''Shining Armor, Cadence...they need help too!''

After remembering that the prince and princess was waiting just outside the ballroom injured, they all nodded with determination. "Then we should ensure that those that needs assistance in Canterlot gets it, ''Arcanus agreed.

They all started to trot hastily to the ballroom door. Unbeknownst to Quentin, Celestia and Luna were gazing at him rather, curiously, intently as if to say, 'there's something about him that's different' and gazed at each other uncertainly.

"Could it really be true?'' Celestia thought to herself.

Back in the common room, Quentin, Rainbow, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike conversed about various things first about the recent invasion, then about lighter things like fashion business, parties, things like that. Quentin sat there and listened to his friends and gazed around the room. As expected, it was a spacious, magnificent room fit for royalty. Like most of the palace, the color scheme of room seemed to be polished white purple, and gold. The floors were sparkling white with a rather large, rectangular purple carpet in the center of the room where they sat with numerous, extravagant purple and gold pillows with a fireplace in the wall away from the eight and above a dark blue tapestry with a large, six pointed shield in the center. The shield was gold lined and depicted a yellow, stylized sun with a purple circle in the middle with a white star and crescent moon while the left half of the shield had clouds in the day time and the right side showed a night sky with three stars, symbolizing Princess Celestia and Luna no doubt.

Also in the room, were some tables against the walls under grand windows, some had large vases of flowers. Along the walls around the room, were purple shelves that were filled with books with a golden, candle chandelier hanging from the ceiling. The room was actually quite cozy and relaxing, something Quentin appreciated. As he looked around, Quentin felt a hard object rest on his shoulder.

''Quen hun, are ya ok?''

The stallion turned to see Applejack giving him a concerned look while the others looked at him. Quentin nodded with a soft smile, ''Yeah AJ I'm good. I guess my mind just wandered off.'' Quentin gazed around again before chuckling. "I swear with all these books, Twilight would think this is heaven.''

Spike smirked slyly and spoke, ''Nah this is nothing compared to the library. There's over a thousand books in there. Twilight practically lived in there when we lived in Canterlot.''

Quentin smirked, ''Really? Imagine if Twilight saw the largest library back on Earth, she'd probably explode on spot from euphoric overload.''

This prompted laughter from his six friends. "Euphoric overload, that was great Q!'' Rainbow Dash laughed, falling on her back.

Right on cue, the door opened and Twilight came in and they stopped laughing abruptly. "Hey guys, what's going on?'' Twilight asked with a smile as she approached them.

"Oh nothing!'' Rainbow Dash answered trying to hold back snicker.

Twilight looked at her confused and Spike laughed, ''We were just saying how you would explode from euphoric overload if you saw the largest library back where Quentin is from!''

Again the six laughed and Twilight looked irritated, clearly not amused. Applejack walked to her side and nudged her while giving a smirk, ''Aw lighten up Twi, its jus' a little fun. Besides, ya know it's true!''

Twilight continued with her unamused expression before finally cracking a smile with a giggle, "Yeah, I suppose you're right. After all I do enjoying reading.''

"Translation, she's an egghead,'' Rainbow Dash retorted beside Quentin and they all laughed again, Twilight rolling her eyes.

"Oh ha ha very funny guys.''

After the laugh, Quentin asked Twilight seriously and with concerned, ''So Twilight, how's Armor and Cadence doing?''

Twilight sighed as she smiled softly and answered, ''They're both doing fine. Just some burns, cuts, and bruises, but nothing critical or life threatening.''

The others all sighed relieved and Rarity spoke, ''Well that's a relief. It'd be just dreadful if anything had happened to the two of them.''

Twilight nodded, ''Yeah, the doctor said they'd had to stay in the hospital wing for a few days just to be on the safe side, but I'm happy they're get through.''

Quentin smiled warmly, ''I wouldn't doubt it. That brother of yours certainly is a strong one, guess it just runs in the family.''

This prompted a blush from Twilight and she averted her eyes, smiling rather bashfully. Fluttershy then spoke in a soft tone, ''I wonder what the princesses are doing?''

Twilight shrugged lightly, ''My guess getting caught up with the things that happened while they were gone. But now that their back, everything's sure to be just fine. Plus we have the Elements of Harmony to defeat Chrysalis.''

The other bearers of those artifacts agreed while Quentin looked down with a shameful look. Rainbow Dash noticed this and asked with concern. ''Hey Q, are you alright?''

The others looked at the stallion and he sighed, "It's just...I was thinking about how the queen got away with the gem.''

With that Rainbow Dash exclaimed, ''What this again?!''

Quentin jumped slightly at the unexpected response and stared at his brazen Pegasus friend. "Now Quen we told ya before this ain't yer fault,'' Applejack said reassuringly.

Quentin just looked down somberly and sighed, "I know but...''

Rarity spoke up softly, coming to him and lifting his head so he would look at her, ''But nothing darling. You mustn't be too hard on yourself.''

Quentin gazed into his beautiful unicorn friend's eyes as she smiled at him kindly. Twilight nodded with a warm smile of her own, "That's right Quentin. And how you fought back those changelings and stood up to Chrysalis, that took a gratuitous amount of bravery.''

Quentin looked at Twilight, she gave him a rather dreamy smile, as if what he did was truly admirable. Quentin gave a half chuckle, ''It was because I had Rainbow Dash with me. Without her, I'd don't know what I'd do.''

Rainbow Dash gave the human a calm smile, and patted him on the back. "Nah Q. Even without me you still would have kicked those changelings' sorry flanks. That's just how awesome you are.''

Quentin looked at her, surprised and a little impressed. Normally, he'd expect her ego to get the best of her again and agreed, but she seemed rather humble at the fact. Regardless, Quentin smiled slightly and averted his eyes to the ground shyly where Pinkie Pie suddenly appeared and locked eyes with him, a bright grin on her face.

"See Quentin, you have absolutely, nothing to worry about. So smile, I won't let anypony frown or be sad, not when I'm around!''

Quentin couldn't help but obliged Pinkie's request and chuckled, "Alright Pinkie, I'll smile from now on!'' He then smiled fondly around his six dear friends. "Thanks girls.''

They responded by bringing him into a group hug. Quentin sighed contently, trying his best to grab hold of as much of his friends as possible. He would never get tired of these. Later on while his friends were conversing with each other, Quentin decided to look around at the bookshelves. As he looked, Quentin noticed some rather interesting books shelved as he read the spines. ''A History of Equestria'', "Myths, Legends, and Fables'', a few encyclopedias as well as what appeared to be ancient tomes of some kind.

"These books must be old, but also must be interesting, '' the intrigued earth pony thought.

As he walked around, a voice spoke behind him, 'Find any interesting books?''

Quentin turned to see Twilight walking up to him. He smiled and spoke, ''Wouldn't be hard, these books are pretty intriguing, especially this one ''A Thousand and One Tales from Saddle Arabia''.

Quentin chuckled at the name 'Saddle Arabia' for it closely resembled Saudi Arabia. He wasn't surprised, for Equestria did have places like Manehatten, Las Pegasus, and Fillydelphia, names also similar to those in his world.

Twilight nodded with an excited smile, ''Oh I love that one. It has a lot of amazing stories, especially Staladdin.''

It was a miracle that Quentin was able to prevent himself from bursting out laughing at the name. After quickly calming himself down, Quentin responded, ''Yeah? Maybe I'll read it sometime. It must be good, if an intelligent unicorn like you suggested it.''

Twilight giggled at the compliment, Quentin may have even seen a faint blush on her cheeks but then her face fell in worry, ''I saw how all those changelings fired spells at you, are you alright?''

The question caught Quentin by surprise for a moment, but he nevertheless smiled and nodded, ''Yeah Twi no worries. Why you ask?''

Twilight said nothing, just responded with an embrace. Quentin's body heated up a bit, his eyes looking around and he saw the rest of their friends talking to one another, not paying them any mind. Finally the nervous stallion spoke uneasily.

''Um, Twi?''

"I was just so worried about you Quentin, ''Twilight said softly, her head resting against his chest.

Quentin sighed, closed his eyes and wrapped his forelegs around her. "I'm fine Twilight, really. It was Canterlot I was worried about when fighting.''

Twilight lifted her head and her purple eyes gazed at her friends, ''But still, you're my friend. We may have only known you for a few weeks, but you've became a part of our lives, including mine.''

Quentin was honestly shocked by Twilight's answer. He'd never thought that he would have meant so much to her. Then again, she had been in his head two times, so an experience like that would tend to leave a special bond between them. Quentin smiled softly, stroking her mane.

''And you and the others have become an important part of my life too Twi. I could not imagine my life never knowing any of you.''

Quentin then glanced up and his eyes landed on Applejack, talking casually with Pinkie Pie and he smiled fondly at the beautiful farm pony. His gaze was interrupted by Twilight, ''And neither can I. So please, just promise me you'll be careful for now on.''

Quentin looked at Twilight, a worried, almost pleading gaze in her eyes. He's always thought of her as a sister, especially now seeing how she wants him to stay safe. There was also Quentin's promise to Shining Armor to look after Twilight, in which Quentin was intending to do no matter what. Quentin nodded, smiling reassuringly.

''I will Twilight, I promise.'' Twilight smiled relieved and the two shared a tender embrace.

Quentin and Twilight released each other and continued looking about the bookshelf, when the earth pony remembered something from earlier that day. "Hey Twilight?''

"Hmm?'' Twilight asked, her horn and a book engulfed in a magenta aura as she levitated the book.

"When Chrysalis was about to hit me with a spell, she said something about, 'Praying to Chiron'. Who's Chiron?''

Twilight's ears perked and she responded, ''Oh!''

She sat the book she had back onto the shelf and levitated another book and gestured Quentin to follow her to a table. When they got to the table, she sat the book on the surface where Quentin noticed the book had a very distinct appearance. It was a rather thick book. The front and back was a deep brown. The front had bronze, squares at the corners of the cover, with a bronze cross in the center. To Quentin it looked like the Holy Bible from his world.

Quentin looked at it with upmost interest and Twilight spoke, ''Chiron, Quentin is the Stallion-Above-The-Stars.''

Quentin blinked blankly at the title, ''The Stallion-Above-The-Stars?''

Twilight nodded ''Yes. He goes by many names. The-Stallion-Above-the-Stars, The Great Stallion, Emperor of the Cosmos, but Chiron is his most accepted name. Some believe him to be the creator of this world, and the universe.''

Quentin stared at Twilight in awe as she opened the book to the first page and Quentin looked down and read.

''In the beginning before all beginnings, Chiron shined his grace in the formless void of darkness; filled with emptiness and nothingness. Upon the void, the Great Stallion wept at the nothingness and began to quell the space with song. As he wept, his tears broke up the emptiness and as his tears of sorrow became tears of joy and with rejoice sang out and from the empty void he brought forth the stars, the sun, the moon, and all celestial bodies and the Great Stallion's smile shined and enveloped the first day of the Great Creation.''

Quentin stopped reading, but he already figured out the entity named Chiron. He was basically Equestria's god, just like God from his world. He nodded, ''I understand, he's the one that created everything...he's your god.''

Twilight nodded, ''Yes that's correct, according to religion anyway. He is the omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent god in our world.''

"I didn't know Equestria had religion?'' Quentin spoke, with a slightly surprised, somewhat bewildered look.

Twilight answered casually, ''Oh yes. Though other ponies and nations may have their own religions, gods and beliefs, Chiron is Equestria's primary deity as well as to others, but there are some who don't believe in him.''

Quentin smirked, ''Atheists' eh?'' Quentin thought. "What about you? Do you believe in him?''

Twilight bowed her head and thought deeply for a moment. Quentin looked at her, waiting for an answer and she finally looked up at him a rather uncertain look on her face. "To tell you the truth Quentin...I'm not really sure myself.''

Quentin stared at Twilight for a moment, not really expecting the answer and Twilight sighed as she continued.

''I don't know. I know it says it in the Sacra Vulgata, but I've never really been the most religious kind of pony. I know it sounds rather ignorant, but at the same time, I want solid proof that he exists, you know?''

Quentin nodded with a deep sigh, ''Trust me, I know Twilight,'' he muttered. "So these books are called Sacra Vulgata?''

Twilight nodded, ''Correct, I hope you don't think differently about me now Quentin. Ponies in Equestria that strongly believe in the Vulgata tends to be rather...''

"Intolerant about those who don't believe or questions the Word?'' Quentin finished.

Twilight looked surprised and blink, ''Well...yeah. So you know how it feels then?''

Quentin nodded halfheartedly. "Yeah, more than you know. Back on Earth, we call our god just God or Jehovah. And those that don't believe often gets attacked verbally and shunned by those who are strong in the Word.''

Twilight continued to stare at him as he sighed once more. "On Earth, even indifferences of religion causes wars, and even death. Just one of the many sins of my imperfect world...of the foolish humans I'm a part of.''

Quentin frowned deeply, gritting his teeth and even tensing up at the thought of people of his world being attacked, ridiculed, or condemned just because they have different views on religion. "Quentin...'' Twilight said softly, sympathetically placing a hoof over his.

Quentin sighed and continued, ''Back on Earth, a lot of bad, terrible things have happened throughout history, things that caused the loss of hundreds, even thousands of lives. I want to believe in God, but I would also ask myself, where was he when all these terrible things happened. How could he let his 'children' suffer and die like that?''

Twilight nodded sadly in understanding. Quentin gazed at her and offered a small smile, ''But despite this, where there is bad, there is also good right?''

Twilight nodded, a warm, sad smile on her face, ''Definitely, I believe that in all places, no matter where.''

Quentin nodded, ''I may have my share of doubts in God, but I do know that just because you can't see it doesn't mean it doesn't exists. I guess you just have to have faith, after all, faith is believing in something when common sense tells you not to. While brute strength could move a mountain, faith could lift an entire civilization.''

Twilight looked at her sincere friend, shocked and rather impressed. ''Wow Quentin, I've never would've thought of it that way. I never knew you could be a deep thinker.''

She then bowed her head and looked at Quentin rather shyly with a smile, ''That was rather wise of you to say.''

Quentin chuckled, ''I guess, I was just building for the moment, and I just went with it.''

Twilight giggled, ''Well what you said makes sense. Maybe there is some higher power watching over us like the Vulgata says. What's important is to never disregard it, no matter the lack of evidence. Always consider it when analyzing and studying the beginning of this world.''

Quentin smiled at his intelligent friend and spoke, ''Now that was pretty wise Twilight. Not surprising though, you are the most rational, level headed of the group.''

Twilight giggled at his compliment, averting her eyes. Her face then fell to one of uncertainty and she gazed up at Quentin and asked, ''Hey Quentin, can I ask you something?''

"Sure what's up?'' Quentin responded wanting to hear her question.

Twilight hesitated at first, as if she was conflicted about asking him. She then bit her lip before for speaking, "I was just wondering if-''

"Oh my, Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!'' Rarity suddenly gasped.

Twilight and Quentin both whipped their heads to their friends and saw them bowing. Sure enough, the two regal sisters were coming through the door and into the room. "Princess Celestia!'' Twilight said, galloping to her before stopping and taking a bow.

Celestia smiled warmly, ''Arise my little ponies. There is no need for bows.''

Quentin's friends stood up as he himself approached the sisters. "Your majesties,'' Quentin spoke politely, bowing but Luna quickly spoke up.

''Please do not bow Quentin.''

Quentin looked at his new friend puzzled and noticed her and Celestia both giving him vague looks, both not taking their eyes off him. "Princess?'' Quentin asked to which Luna shook her head that concerned frown still on her face.

''Friends do not bow to each other Quentin.''

Quentin nodded rather hesitantly and Applejack spoke up tipping her hat, ''Beg yer pardon yer majesties, but is evry'thin ok? Ya look kinda worried about somethin.''

The two sisters continued to stare at the earth pony. Quentin was actually starting to become nervous and stared to shift his gaze awkwardly to the ground. "Well actually, we came here so that we might be able to talk with Quentin,'' Celestia finally responded.

Quentin's body temperature began to heat up as he started to feel a sweat coming along. "Am...I in trouble?''

Luna responded, ''No, no of course not.''

"But something just came to our attention and we feel we should see to it. You're the center of that attention Quentin,'' Celestia finished calmly, yet still bore that nebulous, intrigued expression.

Quentin was really starting to sweat as his heartbeat became faster. His friends were also starting to become worried and Fluttershy asked fearfully.

''Does...does it have something to do with the invasion today?''

Celestia shook her head, ''Not hardly, but we must discuss something important with Quentin.''

Applejack came next to the increasingly unsettled Quentin and gave him a worried look, a look he mutually returned. "Do you need us to leave Princess?'' Twilight asked, concern in her voice taking a quick glance at Quentin.

Celestia gave a small smile, ''That won't be necessary Twilight Sparkle. I can tell that Quentin means very much to all of you.''

With that Rainbow Dash put a foreleg around Quentin with a tough smile, ''Yep! Quentin's really grown on us!''

Quentin couldn't help but smile at his bold friend's comment. Luna chuckled, '' So he has, we can see that. As said before my friend, you are not in any trouble. Something not too long ago has gotten my sister and me thinking. Something that had to do with what Pinkie Pie said.''

Quentin, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Spike glanced at each other, confused, but Pinkie chimed, ''Ohh what did I say?! Was it something about having a party when we get back to Ponyville?! Oh, or was it about cherrychungas?!''

Six of her friends rolled their eyes, while Quentin cocked an eyebrow. "Cherrychungas, what?'' Quentin thought, clearly never hearing the likes of such an item before.

Luna had a look as if to say, 'Oh God kill me now', while Celestia had a more patient gaze and she shook her head, ''Actually, it was about something else you said Pinkie Pie.'' Celestia then turned to Quentin, a look of calm concern as well as seriousness on her face. "Quentin...are you actually a human? Please tell us the truth.''

The others gasped as Quentin stood there frozen on the spot. Celestia and Luna looked at him, waiting for an answer as his friends looked back and forth at him and the princesses. Quentin didn't know what to think. Up until now, they've tried their best to keep the secret of him being from another word under wraps in fear of causing unwanted attention or even panic. Quentin read about the myths of humans in the library in Ponyville and they have a very primal, violent view of his kind. Then again, these were the princesses of Equestria. If anyone should know of any visitors of other worlds, it would definitely be them.

Quentin gazed back at his friends stiffly who looked back at him apprehensively. Twilight then nodded to Quentin, an almost fearful look on her face, but she seemed the think that same way Quentin was thinking. He gulped and looked back at the sisters. This was it, the secret was out. His false story he had told everyone else was going to end her right in front of the two leading rulers themselves. Quentin bowed his head and his ears drooped sadly and he muttered.

''Yes...I am.''

Celestia and Luna seemed expectantly surprised, and the gazed at each other speechlessly. Immediately, Quentin's friends ran up in front of him, like they were defending him from an attack, an action that caught him off guard.

"Princess Celestia, Princess Luna! It's true, Quentin is a human from another world, but you have to believe us, he's nothing like what the myths say they are!'' Twilight spoke, almost pleading like.

The sisters just looked at them as if they were trying to understand what was happening. "Twilight's right, Quentin has been nothing but a joy to us, why he even gave me this ruby out of the kindness of his heart!'' Rarity presented the ruby on the silver bracelet on her foreleg and Rainbow Dash spoke.

''Yeah, Q has been awesome to get to know, and we've shared some rough adventures with him since he's been here!''

"And Quentin can be really fun too! And he's one of the best bakers I know, you should try his cupcakes!'' Pinkie Pie added happily to which Quentin let out a halfhearted smile.

"An he's been a true friend ta us. He's always been there fer us when we needed him. Ever since we met him he's jus' sorta clicked with us. So please, don't pass harsh judgment on him jus' because what some dumb books may say!'' Applejack added.

Out of his friends, she seemed the most adamant about Quentin. Fluttershy spoke up meekly, ''Please your majesties, don't send Quentin to the dungeon or exile him to the Everfree Forest!''

Celestia and Luna seemed rather shock by that answer and Celestia said, ''What in Equestria are you all talking about?''

They all looked at Celestia blankly for a moment or two before Twilight spoke, ''You mean...you're not going to lock him up, or banish him from Equestria?''

Celestia looked at Luna and they both chuckled, ''Why in Chiron's name would we ever befall such a harsh punishment on Quentin?'' Luna asked.

"You mean, you don't see me as a potential threat even though I'm a human?'' Quentin asked, cautiously walking up to the front.

Celestia smiled kindly at otherworldly visitor, ''Quentin, we saw you bravely stand up to the changeling queen, and your friends gives you many praises.''

Quentin averted his eyes and spoke, ''Yeah they praise me a bit TOO much, I really am not that great.''

Celestia and Luna both seemed surprised by his comment and Luna smiled warmly, ''And I see thou have some humility about thee as well.''

Applejack grinned and spoke, ''Yep that Quentin sure is a modest one. Rarely ever talk about himself or his deeds.''

Quentin may have blushed at Applejack's remark and stared shyly at the ground. "So Princess Celestia, you really don't have a problem with having a human in Equestria?'' Twilight asked.

Celestia shook her head, ''Of course not my faithful student. We judge ponies by their character, not by their appearance. Besides, Quentin isn't the first human we've met.''

The seven ponies and Spike all gasped at the claim. "What?! You mean...humans have existed in Equestria before?!'' Twilight asked loudly in shock.

Celestia shook her head and answered, ''No, never in Equestria however, Luna and I have visited the world inhabited by humans. If I remembered correctly, the world was called...''

"Earth,'' Quentin finished softly.

Celestia smiled, ''Yes that was it...Earth.''

Her subjects stared in astonishment, each of them looking at each other as they heard the revelation that Celestia and Luna knew the existence of Earth and its humans. Quentin finally spoke up, ''So...you've actually been to my world?''

Luna nodded, giving him a soft smile, ''That is correct Quentin. It was a little over a thousand years ago when my sister and I stumbled upon an ancient tome in our library containing a peculiar yet powerful spell...a spell that allows one to be transported through space and time to other worlds.''

Quentin's friends murmured amongst themselves as he listened intently to their stories as Celestia continued where Luna left off. "Though powerful the spell, it was very complicated to learn even for us but eventually we mastered the spell and together we traveled to another world in which we later found out to be Earth.''

"Whoa...that is so awesome!'' Rainbow Dash said slowly and softly, the usual crack in her voice.

"Quite, and how was this 'Earth' you two have traveled to?'' Rarity asked intrigued.

Celestia smiled calmly, ''When we arrived we found that Earth was much different from Equestria and was fairly primitive, just how Equestria was during that time, yet there was a certain beauty about it that could even rival our great land, despite how it greatly differed compared to Equestria.''

"Ohhh, that DOES sound like a fun place to visit!'' Pinkie Pie said excitedly.

Quentin on the other hand was rather unnerved as he hesitantly asked, ''And...did you encounter any humans while you were there?''

Luna spoke, nodding, ''Yes...we did encountered some while we explored the strange world.''

The Earthling began to sweat nervously, worryingly and he asked, dreading the answer, ''And...were you attacked?''

All eyes were on the princesses but to their surprise, the two smiled and shook their heads, ''Be at peace Quentin, no humans have even attempted to harm us.'' Luna answered.

The others all sighed in relief as the princess of the sun continued. "On the contrary, the humans we met seemed to be a tribe of some sort. They were truly...peculiar looking. They stood on their hind legs constantly, even walked on them with strange markings on their bodies. They wore strange fur clothing and their bodies were hairless save for their manes which some wore feathers in them as well as carried weapons made of stone and sticks''

Quentin nodded as he understood their descriptions. His guess was that they were Native Americans, but knowing there were numerous tribes there was no way to guess which ones they were. But wait, a thousand years ago? He doubt Native Americans wore that kind of outfits during that time. Plus, on Earth now it was 2013, so a thousand years ago would've been 1013. America wasn't even discovered until the late 1400s, so Native Americans would've been a lot different in appearance between the different years. Could it be that Earth and Equestria have different timelines? Could a thousand years here be only hundreds of years on Earth? Quentin pondered these possibilities deeply as Fluttershy spoke.

"Oh my goodness, what did they do?'' Fluttershy asked in her soft tone, yet with a hint of worry in it.

"We've never seen the likes of them before, and it was clear that they've never seen the likes of us before either. We tried to talk to them, but they were speaking in a language we couldn't comprehend.'' Celestia spoke as she recalled the events.

"I knew it,'' Quentin said to himself under his breath.

Luna continued, ''But once we've demonstrated our magic to them, they began to treat us with the utmost respect, maybe goddesses even.''

Quentin nodded as he spoke, ''Understandable, back in those times, people believed in gods and spirits and would tell stories and legends about them that were passed down from generation to generation.''

"Kind of how like the legends of humans were passed down in our world,'' Twilight suggested.

Celestia spoke, ''After spending a short time with the humans, we decided that it was time to make our leave and so with the spell we learned we traveled back to Equestria, away from their eyes.''

Silence were among them for a moment, the eight friends fascinated by such an amazing story until a question popped in Quentin's head and he asked ,''Wait a minute, so that was the only time you came to Earth?''

Luna nodded, looking a bit confused, ''Yes, why do you asked.''

"Well it's just, when I was back on Earth, I found a sort of well in the forest near my home and fell in it. Next thing I knew, I woke up in the Everfree Forest.''

Celestia just smiled as she responded, ''I was hoping you'd asked that Quentin. Before we left Earth, we decided to cast one last spell before leaving.''

"Really? An' what spell was that exactly?'' Applejack asked.

"Before we left, Luna and I found a perfect clearing in a forest and casted a spell that would create a magical well within a crypt capable of sending something from Earth to Equestria.''

There was a soft gasp from the friends as Quentin's eyes widened in surprise. Luna saw his reaction and spoke, ''And you've came here through the very well we've created Quentin.''

Quentin looked at Luna blankly and lowered his head in thought. ''So for a thousand years, that well had been sitting idly by, waiting for someone to fall into it. Does that mean that my being here was completely by accident? That anyone could've fell in and that someone was me based on a fluke chance?''

At these questions, Quentin felt a rather hurtfulness in his heart. He knew at first he was in a hurry to get back to Earth, but spending three weeks here in this wonderful land, with these wonderful ponies including his six dearest friends made him realized that his life wouldn't be the same if he had never met them or came here. Even if he will have to go back eventually, this place has grew on Quentin deeply.

Twilight spoke frowning a bit, ''But wait I don't understand. So the well was just sitting there for all those years? So anypony could've found it and potentially come to Equestria?!''

Quentin too spoke up rather drearily, ''I was thinking the same thing. So my being here was strictly an accident; something happening entirely by chance for an opportunity by anyone?'' The disheartened stallion then bowed his head and muttered, ''And here I thought maybe there was something special about me since I was spirited away here.''

His friends frowned sadly and Applejack spoke softly, a sympathetic gaze in her eyes, ''Quen...''

Celestia and Luna gazed at one another sadly before looking back at Quentin with kind smiles. Luna walked over to him and gently lifted his head up so that he was looking at her.

''Now don't be like that Quentin. Things never happen by accident.''

Quentin gazed at his Alicorn friend, as if he was trying to understand what she meant. ''Well it would've been more than an accident if some evil, crazy, wakko human found it and came to Equestria!'' Rainbow Dash commented boldly, crossing her forelegs as she hovered in the air.

Celestia just responded with a calm smile. "Which is why we made a safeguard when we created the well.''

They looked at the princesses quizzically as Twilight spoke, ''A safeguard? What kind of safeguard?''

"The spell for inter-world travel is a very powerful spell, so much that just using it once severely drains our energy.'' Celestia began as the others all listened intently. ''Plus we knew it would be too dangerous to leave in the open with the humans around.'' Celestia then sighed sadly and continued, ''For all these years we were able to keep a close watch on Earth from Equestria. Even there, time can cause changes and changes on Earth throughout all those many years were...unfortunate to say the least.''

Quentin frowned sadly, averting his eyes in shame as he knew the instant what she was talking about as his friends looked bewildered as Celestia went on, '' So we casted a special spell that would vanish and only reveal itself to the right person.''

"What'd ya mean by 'the right person'?'' Applejack asked, raising an eyebrow.

Celestia answered as she bore a more brighter smile, ''We made sure that the well would only appear before one whose heart showed the perfect balance of charity, compassion, devotion, integrity, and optimism as well as the magical understanding to look pass differences to develop friendships to be worthy of coming to Equestria.''

As Celestia said those words, each of Quentin's friends smiled warmly, yet proudly as Celestia called out the characteristics that they each represents as Quentin stared at Celestia with an amazed yet confused expression. Rarity gasped.

''Just like the Elements of Harmony!''

Luna nodded with a smile, ''Exactly. And it would seemed that you Quentin fit the qualifications perfectly.''

"I...I did?'' Quentin asked softly, but amazed.

Applejack smiled impressed, ''While I'll be...ta think ya would be worthy enough ta come ta Equestria?''

Twilight walked beside the human, a fond smile on her face as she added, ''It makes sense. Ever since coming to Equestria, you've never once belittled us or thought lowly of us. You've treated us as equals, despite being from another world and being an entirely different species.''

"Yes, you gave everypony that you've met respect and sincerity, like the gentleman that you are. Why you even wished for the best for that no good charlatan Fiyorae.'' Rarity added with her graceful smile.

Rainbow Dash hovered to Quentin's side and put a foreleg around his shoulder and smiled at him, ''Yeah! You've been so cool to everypony, and to us. That's what made you so cool!''

Quentin smiled sheepishly at his cyan friend, yet he also felt a warm gratitude that he's felt more from her than the rest of his praises. She came to his aid from Discord, took him flying with her, they even fought side by side with each other. These special experiences with one another made Quentin feel a special bond that only they shared.

"Yep! And you've made friends with a hoofful of ponies in just a few weeks of being in Ponyville. You've got to be REALLY special to pull that off!'' Pinkie Pie happily said, appearing suddenly from behind Quentin standing on his back and bending her head down so she was looking at him from upside down.

Honestly the gesture caught Quentin by surprise, for no matter how long one has known Pinkie Pie, they'll fate themselves going to a mental asylum trying to figure her out. Fluttershy spoke up quietly, but with a cute smile looking at Quentin.

''And you even offered to put aside finding a way home to help and stay with us until the princesses returned.''

Quentin smiled warmly at the timid Pegasus. Out of all his friends, she could probably kill you with her overwhelming cuteness. Applejack was the last to speak and she gave Quentin a smile that showed fondness as well gratefulness. ''An' if I'll be so bold here Quen, but I'm mighty thankful that it was you that found that well. I really can't imagine never gettin ta know ya now that y'all been with us fer this time...an' that's the honest truth.''

Quentin stared at his honest pony friend, amazed yet touched by her comment. Hearing those words, especially from probably his closest friend really gave him a sense of belonging that he never felt before. Quentin shook his and let of a half chuckle and spoke, looking at all of his friends.

''I'm the one that's glad. I'm glad to have found this wonderful world...and I'm even more glad to have met the six most wonderful girls.''

"Aww!'' his six friends sighed in unison and Quentin was caught in a warm group hug.

Quentin sighed as he tried to wrap his forelegs around as many of his friends as possible as Celestia, Luna, and Spike looked on at them, smiling warmly. After a few moments passed, the group broke apart and Quentin turned to Luna. "I...hope me being a human doesn't change your opinions about being my friend?'' Quentin asked somberly, lowering his head sadly a bit.

Celestia and Luna both looked surprised by his question, but Luna soon responded by running forwards and wrapping her forelegs around Quentin in a tender embrace, surprising him. "Of course not honored friend from a distant world. I want our friendship to grow and I will forever cherish it,'' Luna whispered in his ear.

Quentin sighed in relief and wrapped his own forelegs around her neck as he returned the hug. "That's good to hear, I feel the same way your majesty.''

Luna looked at Quentin, not releasing her embrace from him and smiled warmly, ''Please Quentin, friends don't use honorifics when addressing each other. Call me Luna.''

He smiled with a silent nod before embracing again, ''Ok...Luna.''

Quentin's six friends and Celestia smiled at them and the two finally broke apart as Luna added with a frown, ''I only wish that we could've became friends under more...pleasant circumstances.''

With that they all remembered the events that took placed in Canterlot recently and they frowned angrily. "Right...Chrysalis,'' Quentin growled.

Celestia walked up beside her sister, a serious expression upon her face. "Yes, the changeling queen. We must stop her, especially now that she has another one of those gems in her possession.''

"But Princess Celestia, what exactly are these...Cosmic Gems and what do they do?'' Twilight asked her mentor, almost frantically.

Celestia sighed deeply, ''I don't know Twilight. I've never even heard of such objects before in my life. But if Chrysalis wanted them so desperately, even attacking Canterlot to get one then they must be extremely powerful.''

The seven friends looked at one another, like as if waiting for one of them to come up with some sort of plan. "What do we do now your highness?'' Rarity asked, raising a hoof close to her mouth in worry.

Celestia lowered her head in thought for a few moments before lifting it up and speaking with a calm, but serious tone, ''For now we must see to it that everypony in Canterlot will recover. Then together we'll see what Chrysalis' next step in her plan is.''

Luna nodded firmly, ''Agreed sister, our subjects are our top priority.''

Celestia added, ''And Arcanus is also with us. His great wisdom will surely aid us in finding the answers we seek.''

The others could only nod understandingly, yet still with concern. Far away at her dark castle, Chrysalis laughed gleefully, evilly as her Changeling minions quivered with fear at their queen. Ever since she started to collect the gems, she's became increasingly aggressive and violent, even to her faithful subjects. The gangly queen let out another wicked laugh as her five gems floated around her, glowing with their respective colors. Chrysalis gave a twisted smile at her precious stones and spoke.

''One, two, three, four, and five. Five of the fable Cosmic Gems are mine!''

The yellow glowing gem hovered in front of her for a moment before floating forward and touched the tip of her horn. Immediately the gem glowed bright as Chrysalis' eyes glowed a bright yellow as she gave off a brief cry. She then turned her gaze down to the trembling minions and grinned darkly. Suddenly several of the changelings started glowing a yellow aura and in a flash of light, they were turned to stone. The surrounding changelings backed away fearfully as in another flash of yellow light, a magical yellow portal appeared under the hooves of a group of changelings and they fell through with screams which quickly silenced when the portal suddenly vanished.

The remaining minions backed even further away, fearing of their queen's abuse, but Chrysalis just laughed. "Glorious, just glorious! With the Reality Gem, nothing is impossible to me!''

With her eyes still glowing, a flash of yellow light appeared and hovering in front of her was a glowing ball of energy similar to that of the sun. "With this one gem alone, I am above everything else!'' Chrysalis muttered evilly. "Forget the last gem, I am already the most powerful being in Equestria. Now I can single hoofly destroy Celestia and take over Equestria!''

Right after finishing those words, Chrysalis pinched her eyes shut and brought her hooves to the sides of her head, and started grunting loudly, as if she was having a severe migraine. She spoke and when she did, her voice sounded even more distorted with a horrible, dark, demonic voice speaking alongside hers.

''No...I must collect all six gems if I am to succeed!''

Chrysalis grunted with pain again as her minions looked on in fear and bewilderment. Chrysalis spoke, a brief moment in her normal voice with one eye peered open, ''But I...ugh...already have...the power...too...'' she finished, with that demonic voice speaking with her voice as she pinched her eye shut again.

''NO...I need all the gems...ALL OF THEM!''

Chrysalis grunted and shook her head until finally her eyes shot open, her pupil's small, and then dilated back to their normal size. Chrysalis shook her head and panted lightly, looking at her floating gems in slight confusion before speaking softly, ''No...I'm being too hasty. If I am to be truly invincible, then I must find the last gem.''

Chrysalis glared into space as the floating gems closed in around the tip of her horn before finally touching the tip. Almost immediately, the gems glowed brighter before merging in a ball of white light. Chrysalis grunted and her eyes began glowing in the same light as images began to flash in her mind. Her vision was brief, and as quickly as it came, the while light subsided and the five gems expanded and started revolving around the evil queen once again. At first, chrysalis just stared down at the ground blankly before starting to laugh softly. He laugh became louder and louder before becoming full out crazed cackle.

"So that is the location of the final gem?! How can this possible get even easier?!'' Chrysalis cackled and finally stopped, giving a twisted grin, ''No matter...like the others, that gem will be mine and soon...ultimate power!''

She then flew up in the air, the gems float ever so around her and glared down at her trembling subjects, ''Rest up you pathetic fools! Soon, we'll pursue the final Cosmic Gem and after that...all will bow down before me!''

Her minions nodded unhesitatingly, but fearfully and they bowed to their queen. Chrysalis leered down at them, before grinning darkly, "All will bow...or be struck down by my divine powers!''

With that, Chrysalis let out another evil cackle, once again that dark, demonic voice laughing alongside hers. First strange visions, then Kal-Equa's attack, and now Canterlot's been invaded. And what's more these mysterious Cosmic Gems Celestia, Luna and the others know nothing about. One this is for certain…all of these things are connected. What horrors lies ahead now that Chrysalis has yet another powerful gem at her disposal?