Celestia, Sundance and Midnight Armor stood before walking over to the dining room table as well. The five of them looked up in time to see Apple Crunch push a cart of food into the dining room.

Midnight Armor let out another sigh of relief. Thank goodness. I think all of us are ready for lunch.

Laughter laughed when Twilight immediately took a large bite of her cucumber, lettuce and tomato sub. It looks like you are correct. Then again, that was just Twilight.

That’s not true. Loyalty commented Artemis, Celestia and Sundance just did the same thing.

Laughing softly, Midnight Armor shook his head before taking a bite of his sandwich. Like I said . . . all of us are ready for lunch.

Generosity, Loyalty, Kindness, Honesty and Laughter laughed as well.

Sundance waited until everyone had finished eating before turning to her children. “We still have about forty minutes before court resumes. What would you like to do now?”

Celestia smiled “We usually head outside when we finish eating.”

Artemis nodded “We like to get some fresh air and relax next to one of the fountains in the garden.”

Midnight Armor returned his daughter’s smile. “That sounds good.”

Twilight responded by teleporting the five of them to the garden behind the castle. Everyone else laughed when she immediately lay down in the shade of a large tree.

Artemis lay down next to his wife before gently nuzzling her. Celestia lay down on Twilight’s other side. Midnight Armor lay down next to his son and Sundance settled next to her eldest. The five of them lay their heads on the grass with sighs of contentment. None of them spoke. Instead, they closed their eyes and relaxed.

Thirty Minutes Later

Celestia lifted her head and looked at her family. She laughed softly when she saw that Twilight had snuggled closer to Artemis’ side before falling asleep.

Curious, Sundance, Midnight Armor and Artemis lifted their heads as well. Seeing that she had their attention, Celestia nodded at Twilight.

Sundance and Midnight Armor followed her gaze . . . and smiled when they saw that their youngest was asleep.

I’m not surprised. She did wake up just after sunrise. Also smiling, Artemis gently nuzzled his wife.

Yawning, Twilight slowly opened her eyes and looked up at him. “What is it?”

“We need to head back to court.” Artemis quietly replied

“Alright.” Twilight yawned again before standing and stretching. Then she began to walk towards the castle.

Celestia and Artemis stood and stretched as well before following her.

Midnight Armor stood before turning to his wife. “It looks like she’ll be using your gift sooner than we thought.”

“You’re right.” Laughing softly, Sundance stood and stretched her wings before folding them again. She was about to say something else, but paused when she heard her son’s voice.

“Mother? Father?”

Midnight Armor and Sundance turned towards the rear entrance to the castle. They immediately noticed that all three of their children were looking at them.

“We’ll be there in a minute.” Midnight Armor turned back to his wife in time to see her smile.

“I should be able to finish the blanket tonight.” Sundance commented “As for the pillow, I’ve decided not to make a new one. Instead, I’ll make a cover for an existing one.”

Midnight Armor smiled “Good idea.” Now I just need to figure out what I am going to give Twilight.

Perhaps you should spend time with her. Generosity suggested That might give you a couple of ideas.

Good point. Midnight Armor replied

Sundance returned the smile as they walked over to their children.

The five of them found themselves in the throne room a couple of minutes later. They lay down on the dais in the same positions before turning to each other.

“We still have a little time before court resumes.” Artemis remarked

Everyone else nodded before laying their heads on their forehooves. Artemis nuzzled his wife before doing the same.

Five minutes later, Celestia glanced out the window before turning back to her family. “It’s time.” She waited for them to lift their heads and nod before using her magic to open the main entrance to the throne room.

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow when a large group of ponies walked inside. “I am certain that I have seen at least a few of them before.”

“You’re right, Midnight.” Sundance quietly replied “I believe most, if not all, of them work in the castle.”

“That is correct.” Celestia responded “Artemis and I allowed our guards to close the castle early because the castle staff would also like the chance to meet the two of you.”

“I suppose that makes sense.” Midnight Armor said slowly

“What about the nobility?” Sundance asked “I know that several of them were arrested the day your father and I returned, but that can’t be all of them.”

“You are correct, Queen Sundance.”

Startled, the Royal Family jumped slightly before turning to see that Arctic Breeze was standing a few feet away.

Arctic Breeze bowed “I apologize for the interruption, but I couldn’t help overhearing part of your conversation.” He lifted his head before turning to Sundance. “The remaining nobles have requested to meet you as well. There is only one issue.”

“What is the issue?” Midnight Armor asked

Artemis rolled his eyes before turning back to his parents. “They are demanding that it be at a Royal Ball. It will be two weeks from this Friday.”

Sundance and Midnight Armor’s eyes widened as both of them said the same thing. “What?”

Celestia resisted the urge to roll her eyes as well. “That is why Rarity took your measurements a couple of days ago. She is making the outfits that you will be wearing.”

“I see.” Sundance slowly responded

Midnight Armor thought for a moment before turning back to his children. “There is one pony that isn’t a member of the nobility, but I would like to meet him anyway.”

Curious, Twilight turned to her father. “Who are you talking about?”

“The stallion named Blueblood.” Midnight Armor narrowed his eyes. “There are a few things that I would like to say to the pony who tried to banish, then kill, my son.”

Artemis stared at his father for a moment before slowly shaking his head.

Sundance turned to her son. “Is something wrong?”

“No, Mother.” Artemis slowly replied “It’s just that I am torn between telling Father that that isn’t a good idea . . . and asking him if I can watch.”

Night instantly began to laugh. I vote for the second option.

Everyone else in the throne room began to laugh as well.

Midnight Armor waited until everyone had calmed down before giving his son a mischievous smile. “Would it help if I told you that I want the four of you to be there?”

Sundance laughed “That certainly solves that problem.”

Artemis slowly nodded

Laughter began to laugh as well. This is going to be GOOD.

Sundance’s expression suddenly turned serious. “Besides, I would like to speak to the mare who tried to kill one of my daughters and my granddaughter.”

Twilight’s eyes widened

“Dahlia’s cell is right next to Blueblood’s.” Celestia slowly responded

“Good” Sundance and Midnight Armor replied

Arctic Breeze glanced at Ice Blossom. “I wish there was a way that we could see that.”

Ice Blossom silently nodded

Twilight slowly shook her head before turning to the castle staff. “I am going to show you what happened this morning. This should answer several of your questions.”

Midnight Armor smiled at his youngest. “Good idea. This way, your mother and I shouldn’t have to repeat ourselves.”

Everyone looked on as Twilight showed them her memory of that morning.

Laughing, Stone Steps shook his head. “You were correct, Princess Twilight. That certainly answered all of my questions.”

Apple Crunch glanced at Sundance and Midnight Armor before turning to Artemis. “I still can’t believe you created stars and attached their souls to them.”

Aqua nodded to Apple Crunch before turning to Artemis as well. “It’s not that we don’t believe you, it’s just that we can’t believe it.”

“It really happened.” Midnight Armor responded “Trust me.”

Sundance nodded “Having one’s soul ripped from their body and attached to a star is a unique experience, but it isn’t something that we would make up.”

Artemis laughed when everyone else silently nodded.

Twilight glanced at her parents before turning back to the ponies in front of her. “If nopony else has any more questions, I think we should call it a day.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow as she turned to her sister. “Are you tired?”

“That’s not it.” Twilight gave her sister a mischievous smile. “I want to see how Blueblood reacts to meeting Mom and Dad.”

Artemis chuckled “That makes two of us.”

Everyone else immediately began to laugh.

When she had finished laughing, Ice Blossom glanced at everyone else before turning back to the Royal Family. “You do know that we are going to be asking about that tomorrow, right?”

Sundance giggled “I don’t have a problem with that.”

Celestia smiled at her mother before turning back to the ponies in front of her. “In that case, I am going to release most of you for the day. Please enjoy the rest of your day.” She turned to Apple Crunch in time to see him shake his head.

“I appreciate the offer, but I am going to have to respectfully decline.” He glanced at Sundance and Midnight Armor before turning back to Celestia. “I need to get dinner started.”

I knew he was going to say that. Celestia smiled “We will see you at the usual time.”

Most of the ponies in the throne room bowed to the Royal Family before walking out of the room.

The guards waited until the main entrance closed behind the last pony before turning to the Royal Family.

“I hope you weren’t expecting us to leave as well.” Silver Shadow remarked

Midnight Fang nodded “Both of the ponies that you plan to visit have attacked at least one of you.”

Laughing softly, Artemis shook his head before turning to his sister. “I should have seen that coming.”

He’s right. Celestia smiled at her brother before turning back to their guards. “Very well. The four of you may accompany us.”

The guards sighed in relief as the Royal Family stood.

Midnight Armor was about to lead the way, but paused when he realized that he didn’t know where they were going. He turned to his children. “Why didn’t we visit the Royal Dungeons during the tour of the castle?”

“That was done intentionally.” Celestia answered

Artemis nodded “We wanted to celebrate the fact that you had returned . . . a visit to the Royal Dungeons would have ruined that.”

“I suppose that makes sense.” Midnight Armor slowly replied

Silver Shadow stepped forward. “Please follow me.”

Everyone else silently followed him out of the throne room.

In the Royal Dungeons

A large, sturdy wooden table with two matching chairs had been placed in a corner next to the staircase that led up to the rest of the castle. The chairs were occupied by two members of Celestia’s Day Guard. The first guard was a unicorn stallion with a light green coat, matching eyes and an orange mane and tail. The second guard was an earth pony stallion with a chestnut brown coat, steely blue eyes and a black mane and tail.

“Guard!”

The first guard turned to the second. “Is it your turn or mine?”

The second guard rolled his eyes. “I brought the ingrate his lunch. It’s your turn to see what he wants.”

The first guard stood “Maybe he has finished eating and wants me to take his empty plate away.”

“Good luck with that.” The second guard replied “He probably wants you to bring him something else.”

The first guard narrowed his eyes. “If this is another demand for a grilled cauliflower steak, steamed broccoli and a baked potato . . .”

The second guard gave the first an amused look. “What are you going to do if it is?”

“I will send you into that cell with him, Walnut.” The first guard responded “You will get to keep him entertained.”

Walnut glanced towards the cells before turning back to the first guard. “One question, Forest.”

Forest raised an eyebrow. “What is it?”

Walnut smirked “Can I bring my spear?”

“Lucky for him, the answer is no.” Forest replied Walnut would destroy that miserable excuse for a stallion in less than five minutes.

Walnut’s smirk turned into a scowl. “You’re no fun.”

“GUARD!”

“Keep your mane on.” Forest muttered as he walked down a short hall before reaching a crossroads. He stopped there for a moment as he considered his options. Unicorns to the left, pegasi to the right and earth ponies straight ahead. I am fairly certain I know who the noisemaker is. He turned left. Then he paused for a moment and just looked at the long hallway that stretched in front of him. There were cells lined along the left side and all of them were filled.

We are nearly at full capacity. Forest shook his head as he started walking again. This is the first time in a long time that we have had more than three prisoners at any given time. A few minutes later, he stopped in front of the cell at the end of the hall and looked at the pony inside. “What do you want?”

Blueblood was attempting to look regal as he reclined on his small prison bed. He glared at Forest. “How dare you speak to me like that?!”

Very easily. “What do you want?” Forest repeated

Blueblood glared at Forest for a moment before nodding at the plate of untouched food on the small wooden table in the corner of his cell. “I can’t eat that rubbish. I demand that you bring me a more appropriate meal.”

Forest resisted the urge to roll his eyes. “There is nothing wrong with your vegetable sub, Blueblood. In fact, the food that you receive here is better than prisoners in any other Equestrian prison would get on their best day.”

Enraged, Blueblood rolled off of his bed and rushed over to the cell door. “How dare you speak to me like that?!”

We have already had this part of the conversation. Forest was pulled from his thoughts by the sound of hoofsteps. He glanced at the cell next to Blueblood’s to see that the occupant had walked over to the door to her cell. “Yes, Dahlia?”

Dahlia glanced at Blueblood. I know what he thinks, but I no longer believe anything he says. She turned back to Forest. I will ask him instead. “Are the rumors true?”

“What rumors?” Forest responded

“Princess Celestia and Prince Artemis’ parents . . . are they really in Canterlot?” Dahlia hesitantly asked

Blueblood snorted “Of course not. I keep telling you that they don’t exist.”

Forest opened his mouth, but paused when he heard Walnut’s voice.

“Attention! The Royal Family has entered the Royal Dungeon!”

All of the prisoners, except for Blueblood and Dahlia, gasped before rushing to the doors to their cells.

Forest raised an eyebrow. Why would they come here? He glanced to the right when he heard hoofsteps.

The unicorns in their cells immediately began to whisper amongst themselves as the Royal Family walked past them.

Sapphire Wing, Silver Shadow, Midnight Fang and Steel Night silently followed the Royal Family.

Celestia stopped in front of Dahlia’s cell. Instead of looking at the incarcerated mare, she smiled at the guard. “Good afternoon, Forest.”

Forest bowed “Please forgive me, your highnesses. I was unaware of the fact that there was going to be a Royal Inspection.” That isn’t a problem because the Royal Dungeon is always held to the proper standard. The problem is that I wasn’t able to greet the Royal Family as soon as they entered the Royal Dungeon.

Twilight shook her head. “That is not why we are here.”

Forest lifted his head. “What do you mean, princess?”

“We would like to speak to a couple of the ponies.” Sundance explained

Dahlia’s eyes widened slightly as she looked up at Sundance and Midnight Armor. They are even taller than Princess Celestia . . . Her eyes widened even further as she focused on Sundance. W-wait a minute . . . Is she who I think she is?!

Midnight Armor took a couple of steps forward before turning so that he was facing Blueblood.

Sundance silently moved so that she was standing next to her husband. I will let Midnight speak to Blueblood while I figure out the best way to word what I would like to say to Dahlia.

Good idea. Harmony responded

Another alicorn?! Not just one, but two?! Blueblood stared at Sundance and Midnight Armor for a moment before turning to Celestia. She is probably going to tell me that they have been placed in positions of power as well. “What is going on here?!”

Celestia was careful to keep her expression neutral. “Good afternoon, Blueblood. Artemis, Twilight and I would like to introduce you to a couple of ponies.”

Blueblood silently waited for her to continue.

“The ponies in front of you are the parents of Artemis and myself.” Celestia explained “Our mother’s name is Sundance.”

“Our father’s name is Midnight Armor.” Artemis added

Dahlia barely managed to suppress a gasp of shock. I was right.

Where have I heard those names? Blueblood tilted his head slightly as he thought. A little over a minute later, his eyes widened slightly. I remember now. Golden Flash and Golden Thunder mentioned them every time they visited me. If I recall correctly, Golden Thunder was saying something about needing to find their souls so he could destroy them. He promised to free me and restore my title in exchange for some of my magic. His eyes widened even further when he suddenly realized what Celestia and Artemis had said. Wait a minute. He turned back to Celestia. “Parents?!”

“That’s right.” Twilight showed Blueblood, Dahlia and Forest her memory of that day’s court sessions

Good idea. Magic commented That should answer some of his questions.

Forest stared at Artemis for a moment before whispering a single word. “Incredible!” I didn’t know that he has the power to create stars!

Midnight Armor turned back to Blueblood. “I have heard a lot about you.”

“Why is this lowlife speaking to me?!” Blueblood muttered “Doesn’t he know who I am?!”

Lowlife?! Loyalty angrily repeated Does he know who he is speaking to?!

I highly doubt it. Midnight Armor responded It is clear that he wasn’t paying attention to the memory that Twilight just showed everyone.

You are probably right. Honesty commented

Midnight Armor turned back to Blueblood. “I know exactly who you are.”

He certainly doesn’t act like it. Blueblood glared at Midnight Armor. “Why should I care about what you think?”

Forest’s eyes widened slightly. You should not have said that, Blueblood.

“I can give you a very good reason.” Artemis waited for Blueblood to look at him. “Father is the King of Equestria. Before you ask, Mother is the Queen.”

Instantly enraged, Blueblood shouted “WHAT?! How could you give newcomers those titles?!”

Celestia raised an eyebrow. “Mother and Father are hardly newcomers. In fact, a unified Equestria was their idea. They laid the groundwork and got the process started long before our first battle with Golden Thunder.” She glanced at her brother before turning back to Blueblood. “Artemis and I merely finished what our parents started.”

I suppose that makes sense. Blueblood glared at Sundance and Midnight Armor for a moment before turning back to Celestia. “Why did you give them the titles of King and Queen?!”

“I didn’t give Mother and Father those titles.” Celestia answered “They had them all along.”

Surprised, Blueblood just stared at Celestia for a moment before saying a single word. “What?”

Celestia raised an eyebrow. “Haven’t you ever wondered why Artemis and I are the prince and princess instead of the King and Queen?”

“I asked you why you were just a princess almost ten years ago.” Blueblood responded “You simply told me that you would answer my question when I was older.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow ever so slightly. I didn’t know that he was actually listening to me. I certainly didn’t expect him to remember what I said to him that day.

“What does that have to do with anything?” Blueblood asked

Night let out an irritated sigh. That stallion is officially an idiot.

Agreed. Artemis turned back to Blueblood. “Celestia and I retained our titles of “Princess” and “Prince” because we refused to take our parents’ titles.”

Celestia smiled at her brother before allowing that smile to fade as she turned back to Blueblood. “Therefore, Father and Mother have been the King and Queen of Equestria for almost two thousand years. Most of Equestria didn’t know about them because they were living as stars.”

“If they were living as stars, what are they doing here?” Blueblood asked

“I created the spell that returned their souls to their bodies almost four months ago.” Twilight answered “I cast that spell during the battle with Golden Thunder a few days ago.”

“Mother and Father have resumed their original positions.” Celestia finished “This means that the five of us will be ruling Equestria together from now on.”

Blueblood stared at Celestia, Artemis and Twilight in stunned silence. In fact, it was a couple of minutes before remembered to close his mouth. He was silent for a few more minutes before stammering two words. “I-I see.” He stared at a random spot on the wall over Twilight’s right shoulder for a minute before looking up when he heard someone clear their throat.

Everyone turned to see that Midnight Armor had fixed Blueblood with a slight glare.

“Now that that has been cleared up, I would like to move onto a more pressing matter.” Midnight Armor remarked

“What is it?” Blueblood asked Perhaps he is going to release me. He suppressed a smile. If so, I might be able to convince him to give me my title back as well.

What do you intend to say? Kindness hesitantly asked

Don’t worry. Midnight Armor replied I will be civil towards him until he proves that he no longer deserves to be treated that way.

I have a feeling that he will do so rather quickly. Honesty remarked

You are probably correct. Regardless, I will give him the chance that he does not deserve. Midnight Armor’s glare deepened slightly. “What do you have against my son?”

That is not what I thought he was going to say. “What do you mean?” Blueblood asked

I can’t believe he has to ask. “I am aware of the fact that you repeatedly tried to trick Artemis before attempting to have him permanently banished to the moon.” Midnight Armor struggled to control his temper. “When that didn’t work, you ordered another pony to murder him.”

“He doesn’t deserve his title, position or power!” Blueblood immediately shouted “I should be the Prince of Equestria!” He glared at Artemis for a moment before turning back to Midnight Armor. “Instead, that title was given to him because he is Princess Celestia’s brother!”

That does it. Loyalty snapped That miserable excuse for a stallion no longer deserves to be treated with any form of courtesy.

Agreed. “Artemis has been a prince of Equestria since the day he was born.” Midnight Armor all but growled. “He earned the official title “Prince of Equestria” when he was twenty-three years old.”

“He earned two titles that day.” Sundance commented “The first was “Prince of Equestria” and the second was “Prince of the Night”.”

“Right.” Blueblood scoffed “What did he do to earn those titles?”

Sundance narrowed her eyes. “Celestia and Artemis protected countless ponies before destroying two threats to Equestria. That was also the day that Celestia and Artemis gained the ability to control their respective celestial bodies.”

“If that is the case, why didn’t Princess Celestia earn any official titles?” Blueblood responded

“I also earned two official titles that day.” Celestia answered “The first was “Princess of Equestria” and the second was “Princess of the Day”. Over the years, the citizens of Equestria gave me a third title . . . “Princess of the Sun”. I gave Artemis the title of “Prince of the Moon” when he returned to Equestria and resumed his celestial duties.”

“Why did you do that?” Blueblood asked

“It was only fair that he was given a third title as well.” Celestia replied

Honesty looked at Blueblood thoughtfully for a moment before turning to Midnight Armor. I wonder why Blueblood feels entitled to that title.

I was just wondering the same thing. Midnight Armor cleared his throat and waited for Blueblood to look at him. “Why do you believe that you should have Artemis’ title? As far as I know, you have done nothing to earn it. In fact, your recent actions prove that you don’t deserve the title.”

How dare he speak to me like that?! “I am the last living descendant of Princess Platinum!” Blueblood shouted

“Platinum?” Midnight Armor repeated Where have I heard that name before? He thought for a couple of minutes before laughing softly. “Ah yes. The filly that Celestia and Artemis took in centuries ago.”

Blueblood had been glaring at Artemis, but was so surprised that he allowed his glare to fade as he turned back to Midnight Armor. “What?”

“This happened before Artemis and I succeeded in unifying Equestria.” Celestia explained “I had been patrolling the southern border and was on my way home. That was when I found a unicorn filly in the desert. I knew that she wouldn’t survive on her own, so I brought her to the castle in the Everfree Forest. The nobles immediately tried to place her in their care so that Artemis and I could focus on our official duties.”

“We didn’t allow that because we didn’t trust any of them.” Artemis continued “Therefore, we granted Platinum the title of “Princess” and adopted her as our niece. We raised her ourselves and assigned her a few minor Royal Duties when she reached legal age.”

“Why did you do that?!” Blueblood demanded “A Princess such as her shouldn’t have had to do anything!”

Midnight Armor resisted the urge to shake his head. He obviously doesn’t know anything about being a proper prince.

He obviously doesn’t know anything about being a proper pony. Honesty replied

Agreed. Midnight Armor replied

“That was done to quiet the nobles who had been insisting that she was a princess in name only.” Celestia answered

Enraged, Blueblood shouted “What?!”

“They wanted to take Platinum’s title and place her in their custody.” Artemis explained “Celestia and I avoided that by giving her Royal Duties to attend to.”

Blueblood’s anger faded slightly. “I see.”

“We also gave Platinum permission to pass her title on to her children. It eventually worked its way down to her last living descendant.” Celestia gave Blueblood a look. “That is why you were given the title of prince when you were born.”

Blueblood’s eyes widened when he suddenly realized how that affected him. “You are telling me that I am not from a royal bloodline?! That my esteemed ancestor was a common pony that you “found in the desert”?!”

Celestia and Artemis nodded

Magic immediately began to laugh. In fact, she laughed so hard that it took her a couple of minutes to calm down enough to speak. I find that VERY ironic. He insisted that you would never be a “real” princess because you aren’t from a royal bloodline . . . and he isn’t from one either!

Twilight’s body shook slightly as she struggled to suppress her laughter. You’re right.

“That cannot be true!” Blueblood glared at Celestia. “I demand that you provide some sort of proof!”

Celestia thought for a moment before turning back to Blueblood. “I am willing to show you my memory of the day that I found Platinum. Will that suffice?”

Blueblood nodded

“Very well.” Celestia replied

- - - Celestia’s Flashback - - -

A much younger Celestia nodded to the earth pony stallion standing in front of her before spreading her wings and taking flight. She took a moment to get her bearings before heading to the northeast. I need to fly over the desert, several farmlands and the small villages near the forest before going over the forest to reach the castle. She shook her head. It sounds simple enough, but the journey takes almost three days by air. She sighed I hope Artemis was able to keep the nobles in line during my absence.

She flew for six hours straight before landing on a large cloud and folding her wings. “I think I will stop here for the night. There aren’t many ponies here and those that do live here are mostly earth ponies. This means that they shouldn’t be able to reach me up here. That said, the desert is dangerous at night.” She cast a shield around the cloud before laying down and using her magic to pull an apple out of her saddlebags.

She finished her apple and placed the core in her saddlebags before looking up at the two stars to the right of her brother’s moon. “Good night, Mother and Father.” She lay her head on the cloud and closed her eyes. It didn’t take her long to fall asleep.

The Next Morning

Celestia woke to the pull of the sun. Yawning, she opened her eyes and lifted her head in time to see the moon slowly slip below the horizon. She raised the sun before standing and looking around her. “There aren’t any rain clouds in sight.” She sighed “This means that there won’t be any relief from the heat.” She released her shield, spread her wings and took flight.

After a couple of hours of peaceful flight, she heard a scream from below. “That sounded like a filly.” Concerned, she flew lower as she scanned the desert. That was when she saw a pony with a pale lavender coat running almost directly under her. “That has to be the one who screamed.” She looked closer at the ones chasing the filly before shaking her head. “Of course. Bandits.” It looks like two of them are earth ponies and the one in the lead is a unicorn.

Celestia landed on the sand between the filly and three stallions. “Stop this at once!”

The stallions gasped in shock as they skidded to a stop in order to avoid running into her. All three of them stammered the same two words. “P-princess Celestia!”

Also skidding to a stop, the filly looked over her shoulder. “D-did they say Princess Celestia?!” Her eyes widened when she saw Celestia. “It is her!”

Celestia glared at the stallions. “I don’t care what she has done. There is no reason for the three of you to be chasing a foal through the desert. You know that the exertion alone could kill her . . . especially when the heat starts to increase.”

The largest stallion narrowed his eyes as he took a couple of steps forward. “If I may explain, princess.”

Celestia nodded I have to hear this.

The stallion’s expression immediately lightened. “That filly has been stealing from us for a couple of weeks.”

“I didn’t take any of your money or treasure!” The filly immediately protested “I only took one small jar of water a day! I asked nicely, but you told me that I had to pay you. I gave your friend all of my money on the first day, but he only gave me enough water for one hour!” She shook her silver mane out of her purple eyes and glared at the stallions. “Then he told me to go away and never come back!”

It seems that there is some good in the filly. She did steal, but purposely avoided the money and treasure. Instead, she only took what she needed to survive. Celestia used her magic to open her saddlebags and pull out a bottle of water. She kept her gaze on the stallions while levitating the water to the filly.

The filly squealed in delight as she sat down and grabbed the bottle with both forehooves. “Thank you, princess!” She immediately drank almost half of the bottle in a single gulp.

“Drink the rest slowly.” Celestia waited for the filly to nod before turning back to the stallions. “Explain yourselves.”

The stallion that had spoken to Celestia turned to the one to his left. “How much money did the thief give you?”

The second stallion reached his muzzle into his saddlebags, pulled out a decent sized bag and dropped it on the sand in front of him. “Just under three hundred bits and a valuable necklace.”

“That’s a lot of money for such a little filly.” The third stallion remarked

The first stallion snorted “She probably stole it.”

“I did not!” The filly protested “My mommy gave it to me just before the bad ponies hurt her with their swords! She told me to go into the desert and find the ponies living there.”

Celestia glanced over her shoulder at the filly. “Why did she do that?”

The filly set the empty bottle on the sand and stood. “She told me that my Daddy lives in the desert. I was supposed to find him and give him that bag. She said that he gave her the necklace as a present a long time ago. She also told me that my Daddy promised to take care of me if she couldn’t.”

The third stallion’s eyes widened “I-It couldn’t be.” He took a few steps forward. “What is your name?”

The filly glared at him. “Platinum.”

The third stallion gasped in shock as he staggered back a couple of steps. “T-that means . . . W-what happened to Gold?”

Platinum’s ears dropped as she looked off to the side. “I ran away and hid until the bad ponies went away. Then I went back to Mommy, but . . .” She began to cry. “T-there was a lot of blood and s-she wasn’t breathing.”

Everyone else gasped in horror.

Platinum suddenly realized what the third stallion had said. She used a forehoof to dry her eyes and lifted her head. “H-how do you know my Mommy’s name?”

The third stallion sighed “My name is Dune and . . . I am your father. Your mother was correct. I did promise her that I would take care of you if anything happened to her.”

Everyone else gasped again . . . in shock this time.

Dune took a deep breath before turning back to his daughter. “Come along. Let’s get you back to camp.”

“No!” Platinum shouted

Celestia turned so that she was facing the filly directly. The fact that Dune provided Platinum’s mother’s name without being asked tells me that he is the filly’s father. “This is the pony that you have been searching for. Why don’t you want to go with your father?”

Platinum pointed at her father. “When they were chasing me, he . . . he told me that he was going to kill me!”

“I didn’t know who you were!” Dune protested “I had been travelling for over a month and finally made it back to the camp late last night.” He turned to Celestia. “I told her that she was going to die if she didn’t stop running.”

“Why didn’t you know that you were chasing your daughter?” Celestia asked

“I had never seen her before.” Dune explained “I knew her name and gender because Gold sent me a letter when our daughter was born.” He sighed again. “Gold wanted to stay in the city on the border, but city life isn’t for me. We decided that it would be best if Platinum stayed with her mother because the desert is no place for a young filly.” He glanced at Platinum before turning back to Celestia. “As for the chase today, I didn’t know who we were chasing or what they had done. I was asked to join in because I am the fastest pony in camp.”

Celestia looked at Platinum thoughtfully. She is shaking. It is clear that she is afraid of her father. Under normal circumstances, I would try to keep a family together. However, I don’t believe that is the best course of action to take in this particular situation. She tilted her head slightly. In this case, the best course of action would be . . . Her mind made up, she turned back to Dune. “I was on my way back to the castle. I will bring her with me and see to it that she is taken care of.”

Dune’s ears drooped “I understand.” He used his magic to open the bag that still sat on the sand.

Everyone else looked on as he levitated a necklace into the air before turning to his daughter.

“I gave this to your mother long before you were born.” Dune said softly “I chose a gold chain because of her name. I searched the desert for months to find a gem that was her favorite shade of purple. Then I had an . . . acquaintance . . . turn the gem into the pendant before giving it to her.” He levitated it to Platinum. “I want you to have it.” He gently placed the necklace around his daughter’s neck.

Eyes, wide, Platinum just stared at her father in shock.

Everyone else looked on in stunned silence as Dune turned around and started the long journey back to camp.

His anger gone, the first stallion looked from Dune’s retreating figure to Platinum and back before turning to Celestia. “Please excuse me, princess. I need to go help him.”

Celestia nodded “Don’t let him do anything foolish.”

The first stallion bowed to Celestia before lifting him head and turning to the second stallion. “Grab the money and let’s go. We need to catch up to Dune.”

The second stallion silently did as he was told.

Celestia watched them until they were out of sight. This is not how I was planning to spend the day. No matter. The filly is my responsibility now . . . now I just need to figure out what I am going to do with her. She was pulled from her thoughts by a soft voice.

“Princess?”

Startled, Celestia jumped slightly before turning to her new charge. “Yes?”

“What are we going to do now?” Platinum asked

“We are going to the castle.” Celestia answered

Platinum gasped “The castle?! Why are we going there?!”

Celestia laughed softly “That is where I live. I have been travelling around Equestria for almost three months and would like to go home.” It will take weeks to walk out of the desert at her pace. That doesn’t include the farms, villages or the forest. I don’t have enough food and water for that. This means that the only option is to fly. She levitated the filly onto her back. “Hold on tight.” She waited for Platinum to wrap her forelegs around her neck before spreading her wings and taking flight.

- - - End Flashback- - -

Blueblood just stared at Celestia for a little over a minute before he was able to shake himself from his shock. A-aunt Celestia would never lie to me . . . especially about something like this. T-this means that its true. I am not part of a royal bloodline. He was pulled from his thoughts by Midnight Armor’s voice.

“I would like to get back to the original topic.” Midnight Armor remarked “Simply put, your actions towards my son were unacceptable.”

Blueblood turned to see that Midnight Armor was glaring at him again.

I need to make one thing absolutely clear. “You realize that you are not entitled to anything . . . let alone a position of power.” Midnight Armor gave Blueblood a look that left no room for argument.

Suppressing a shudder, Blueblood silently nodded.

There are several additional things that I would like to say to that pony, but I don’t think it would be wise to do so. Midnight Armor glanced at Sundance. “It’s your turn.”

Sundance nodded to her husband before narrowing her eyes slightly as she turned to Dahlia. “If I understand correctly, you are the one who tried to kill one of my daughters and my granddaughter.”

Dahlia barely managed to suppress a shudder. S-she is trying to hide it, but I can tell that she is extremely angry with me. Her eyes widened when she suddenly realized what Sundance had said. Queen Sundance probably referred to Princess Twilight as her daughter because she is in a relationship with Prince Artemis. As for the rest . . . She turned to Artemis and Twilight. “Granddaughter?”

Twilight nodded “Artemis and I are having an alicorn filly.”

Artemis nuzzled Twilight before turning to Dahlia. “We have named our daughter Lavender Selene.”

“That’s beautiful.” Dahlia whispered

I hate to admit it, but Dahlia is right. That is a beautiful, and regal, name. Blueblood glanced at Artemis. I still don’t think he deserves his title, but he has given his daughter an appropriate name.

Sundance cleared her throat and waited for Dahlia to look at her. “I understand that you attacked Twilight in an attempt to kill Lavender Selene.”

Twilight was unable to suppress a shudder as she briefly allowed herself to think about that day.

Seeing this, Artemis draped a wing over his wife’s back before leaning down to gently nuzzle her.

Dahlia reluctantly nodded

“Why?” Sundance asked

Good question. Harmony commented

“I was trying to protect Equestria.” Dahlia answered

What in Equestria is she talking about? Harmony slowly asked

I’m not sure. Sundance turned back to Dahlia. “How could you have thought that killing an unborn foal would do that?”

“At the time, my husband had recently been arrested for his role in Blueblood’s plan to remove Prince Artemis from power.” Dahlia explained

“It’s Prince Blueblood to you!” Blueblood shouted

“Shut up.” Dahlia snapped “You are not a prince!”

Forest’s body began to shake as he struggled to resist the urge to laugh. It’s about time someone told him that . . . in that manner.

Midnight Armor barely managed to suppress his laughter. I did not expect her to say that.

Laughter didn’t bother trying to suppress her laughter. In fact, she was forced to wait until she was calm enough to be understood before listening to Pinkie. Then she turned back to Midnight Armor. That was EXTREMELY funny. Pinkie thinks so as well. In fact, she is still on the floor of the bakery.

I can’t say that I blame her. Midnight Armor responded

“I made several trips here to visit my husband.” Dahlia continued “I also visited Blueblood because he had convinced me that he was the rightful ruler of Equestria.” She sighed “That was when I was misled into believing that Prince Artemis’ Nightmare Form would take possession of his child in order to be reborn into a body of his own.”

Sundance glared at Blueblood. “I think I can guess who was responsible for that.”

Blueblood just smiled at her. That was one of the best ideas I ever had. The only way that it could have gone any better is if Dahlia had succeeded in killing the Royal Foal.

“I was told that the only way to prevent that was to kill the foal before it could be born.” Dahlia finished “As I said, I honestly thought I was protecting Equestria.”

I need to set this straight. Night turned his attention to Artemis. Would you mind letting me have control of your body? There are a few things that I would like to say to the two idiots in front of you.

I don’t want you harming either of them. Artemis replied

I won’t touch either of them. Night responded

Artemis focused on his connection to Night for a moment before tilting his head slightly. I don’t sense any deceit from him. Besides, I am sure that Twilight will stop him if he tries anything.

Night laughed If it makes you feel any better, I assure you that I won’t try anything. I am well aware of the fact that your wife has the power to stop me. As I have said before, I do not have a death wish.

Very well. Artemis closed his eyes.

Everyone else’ eyes widened when Artemis’ coat began to darken as he got taller.

Dahlia gasped in shock as she staggered back a couple of feet. W-why is he here?!

Aren’t you worried? Loyalty asked

A little. Midnight Armor admitted However, I know that Artemis wouldn’t have allowed this if he thought Night was planning to harm anypony here.

Good point. Honesty responded I hope he is right about that.

Night opened his eyes a little over a minute later. “Do not be alarmed. Artemis has allowed me to have control of his body for a short amount of time.”

I don’t like this. Sundance nervously glanced at Night. She was slightly reassured when she saw that he was calmly standing next to Twilight.

Harmony carefully examined Night’s facial expression and body language. I don’t think he poses any danger to anypony around you.

I hope you are right. Sundance replied

Celestia glanced at Night. He is clearly annoyed, but I don’t sense any hostility from him.

“Why did he do that?” Twilight asked

Night glanced at Twilight. “I would like to speak to two of the ponies here.”

“I think I can guess which two.” Twilight commented

Night smiled at her. “You would be correct.” He allowed his smile to fade as he turned to Blueblood. “I will get to you in a minute.”

Blueblood barely managed to suppress a shudder as he silently nodded.

Night turned to Dahlia. “I am sure that I don’t need to introduce myself.”

Trembling slightly, Dahlia shook her head.

“There is no need to be afraid. I am not going to harm anypony.” Night resisted the urge to laugh when Dahlia relaxed slightly.

Magic listened to the spirits of the other Elements of Harmony for a moment before turning to Twilight. Your friends are aware of the situation. They have already agreed to let you borrow their power if it becomes necessary.

Twilight tilted her head slightly. I appreciate the offer, but I don’t think that will be necessary.

I hope you’re right. Magic replied

“I will make this as simple as possible.” Night waited for Dahlia to nod. “The Elements of Harmony purified me when they purified Artemis. They also bound our souls together. As a result, I can’t leave Artemis’ body.”

Dahlia tilted her head slightly. Something about the way that he said the last sentence . . . “Do you want to?”

Night shook his head. “The events of four months ago have convinced me that Artemis needs to be protected. The best way to do that is to make sure that I am always with him.” He glanced at Twilight before turning back to Dahlia. “As I am sure that you noticed when you attacked Twilight, I am willing to protect her as well.”

“I-I see.” Dahlia stammered

“Don’t listen to him!” Blueblood shouted “That thing is just trying to gain your trust so that it will be easier to destroy you!”

“It doesn’t matter if you trust me.” Night responded “If I want to, I can easily destroy both of you ten times over in less than two minutes.”

Artemis began to laugh. Well said.

Dahlia’s eyes widened while Blueblood gasped in shock.

Laughter laughed Pinkie HAD managed to stand up, but she is laughing so hard that she is on the floor again. Pound and Pumpkin think she has lost her mind.

Applejack is laughing as well. Honesty remarked She would be on the ground, but her brother shoved her onto a hay bale.

Kindness giggled Even Fluttershy thought that was funny.

Rarity just smiled and shook her head. Generosity commented She believes that Night needs tact . . . but said that he has a good point.

Rainbow was trying to perfect her newest trick, but she started laughing so hard that she couldn’t concentrate on her flight. Loyalty laughed She fell onto one of the clouds that happened to be beneath her and is now laughing so hard that she can barely breathe.

Midnight Armor shook his head slightly. I don’t blame any of them.

Everypony else, except for Night, struggled to suppress their laughter.

“If that is the case, why haven’t you attacked us?” Blueblood hesitantly asked

Night turned back to Blueblood. “Artemis made me promise that I wouldn’t harm either of you.”

Sundance smiled Well done, Artemis.

Blueblood’s eyes widened “What? I thought he didn’t like me.”

“Artemis can’t stand you.” Night responded “In fact, I would even say that he hates you.” And I don’t blame him.

“I can’t say that I blame him.” Celestia resisted the urge to laugh when Blueblood immediately glared at her. “You tried to dethrone him. You tried to force me to permanently banish him to the moon.” She gave Blueblood a look. “Then you ordered Blaze to kill my brother.”

“That was his fault!” Blueblood retorted “None of that would have happened if your brother had stepped down from his position as Prince of Equestria and turned his Royal Duties over to you!” The final step of my plan was to trick Aunt Celestia into naming me Prince of Equestria.

Every member of the Royal Family shouted the same word. “WHAT?!”

Night glared at Blueblood as his horn began to glow. That does it.

Do not harm him. Artemis responded

I don’t understand why Artemis is protecting the idiot. Night took several deep breaths before glancing at Sundance and Midnight Armor. “I believe it would be best if we end our visit now.” If this idiot keeps speaking . . . well, I may end up killing him anyway.

“Agreed.” Sundance immediately replied

Midnight Armor glared at Blueblood. I would love to take care of him myself, but that would cause more trouble than it is worth.

I am going to get all of you out of there. Harmony teleported the Royal Family and their guards to the garden behind the castle before Sundance could respond.

Forest stared at the space that the Royal Family had occupied for a moment before narrowing his eyes as he turned to Blueblood. “You won’t be getting dinner after that stunt.”

Blueblood narrowed his eyes as he turned to Forest. “You can’t do that!”

I am not going to bother giving him a response. Forest turned and walked down the hall towards the entrance to the Royal Dungeon.

In the Garden Behind the Castle

Midnight Armor, Sundance, Celestia and Twilight turned to Night in time to see him allow is magic to fade as he closed his eyes. They smiled as they watched Artemis regain control of his body.

Artemis let out an irritated sigh as he opened his eyes. “I can’t believe that idiot said that.”

Laughing softly, Celestia shook her head as she walked over to her brother. “That isn’t appropriate language for royalty.”

“Who cares?” Artemis responded “The only ponies here are our family and guards.” I don’t care if the guards hear less than royal language from us.

Celestia laughed a little harder. “Fair enough.”

Midnight Armor took a couple of deep breaths that did nothing to calm him.

He really needs to calm down. Is there anything we can do to help? Kindness hesitantly asked

I appreciate the offer, but I have something else in mind. Midnight Armor turned to his son. “Take all of that off.”

The guards exchanged confused glances before turning back to Midnight Armor and Artemis.

“Why did King Midnight Armor tell Prince Artemis to do that?” Midnight Fang whispered

“I’m not sure.” Silver Shadow quietly responded “We should see what King Midnight Armor has planned.”

The guards turned back to the Royal Family.

Your father is even angrier at the idiot than you are. Night remarked

Smiling slightly, Artemis did as his father had asked. He set his royal finery in a neat pile on a stone bench next to one to the fountains before starting to stretch. I can’t say that I blame him. That idiot has repeatedly attacked one of his children.

I don’t blame him at all. Night replied

I know that I am no match for him. Midnight Armor took his favorite fighting stance. However, he is the only one that I can safely spar with.

Loyalty looked at Midnight Armor thoughtfully. He has a point. Midnight may be no match for Artemis, but the guards are no match for him.

Shaking his head, Artemis finished stretching before taking the same fighting stance that he had used against his father the day before.

That’s strange. Sundance carefully compared her husband’s fighting stance with the one that their son was using. “It looks like Artemis slightly altered Midnight’s favorite fighting stance.”

You’re right. Harmony commented

“That is exactly what Artemis has done.” Celestia replied

Sundance glanced at Celestia. “Do you know why he still uses that stance? I am sure that there have been several improvements during the fifteen hundred years that your father and I were gone.”

Good question. Sapphire Wing looked at Celestia as well.

Steel Night and Midnight Fang exchanged glances before turning to Celestia.

This is interesting. Silver Shadow carefully examined Midnight Armor’s stance before carefully examining the one that Artemis was using as well. “King Midnight Armor’s stance is impressive, but there is one weakness. Most ponies wouldn’t notice it, but it is obvious to the eye of a properly trained pony. As for Prince Artemis . . . I can’t find a weakness in his defense.” I wonder why we weren’t taught that stance in the Royal Guard Academy.

Midnight Armor idly flicked an ear in Silver Shadow’s direction. Impressive. That stallion is very sharp. Perhaps with a little training . . . He shook his head slightly. That is a thought for another time.

I wonder what he meant by that. Honesty mentally shrugged. I will ask him about that after he has calmed down.

“At first, it was his way of keeping Father’s memory alive.” Celestia answered

Sundance’s eyes widened. “What?”

“At first?” Harmony repeated

“That’s right.” Celestia turned back to her mother. “When we visited our old castle, I told you that I was devastated when it appeared that we lost you.”

Sundance nodded

“Artemis was just as devastated when it appeared that we lost Father.” Celestia continued “In fact, he was worried that he would forget Father. As such, he started using Father’s favorite stance almost immediately. It didn’t take him long to discover that stance’s only weakness.” She laughed softly “He spent years perfecting it. Over the years, it has become his favorite stance as well.”

Sundance turned back to Midnight Armor and Artemis. “I see.”

Midnight Armor stared at his eldest in stunned silence for a little over a minute before slowly turning back to his son. Artemis . . .

Artemis gave his father a small smile. “I am ready when you are.”

Midnight Armor returned the smile. “In that case, let’s get started.”

Sapphire Wing gasped in shock when Midnight Armor and Artemis suddenly vanished. “W-where did they go?!”

Steel Night was about to respond, but paused when he heard soft laughter. Confused, he turned to the rest of the Royal Family. “Princess Celestia?”

“You might want to look up.” Celestia smiled at them before following her own advice.

Everyone else on the ground looked up as well.

Midnight Armor and Artemis reappeared fifteen feet in the air before crashing into each other. As before, Midnight Armor’s size allowed him to push his son back several feet.

Still moving backwards, Artemis allowed a small smile onto his face as his horn began to glow. I doubt Father will be expecting this.

Midnight Armor raised an eyebrow. What is he doing? His eyes widened when Artemis launched a beam of magic at him.

That didn’t take long. Loyalty remarked

Agreed. Midnight Armor dodged his son’s attack and launched one of his own.

That doesn’t look like an illusion. Night commented

It isn’t. Artemis performed a back flip so that his father’s attack went under him before returning to his original position.

I thought you said that his first attack is usually a bluff. Night remarked

That only applies when we are training. Artemis carefully examined his father’s body language and facial expression. I think it is safe to say that we aren’t training at the moment.

Good point. Night slowly replied

Midnight Armor used his magic to boost his speed as he flew towards his son.

Artemis laughed “Nice try, Father.” He easily blocked the blow that Midnight Armor had aimed at his chest before launching one at his father’s right side.

Midnight Armor grunted at his son’s attack forced him a couple of feet to the left. He watched Artemis carefully for a moment before smiling slightly when he noticed something. He hasn’t covered it properly. I can use that to my advantage.

What are you talking about? Honesty asked

You will see soon enough. Midnight teleported above Artemis before aiming a blow at one specific spot in between his son’s shoulder blades. His smile widened when his son fell several feet. I thought so.

“Incredible.” Sapphire Wing said softly

Artemis used his wings to slow his descent before suddenly vanishing.

Midnight Armor’s eyes widened as he looked around. Where did he go this time? He braced himself and waited for his son to make his move. He looked up when he saw a flash of dark blue above him.

“Too slow.” Artemis used both forehooves to physically push his father towards the ground before launching a beam of magic as well.

Silver Shadow glanced at Sapphire Wing. “That was incredible.”

Sapphire Wing and Midnight Fang silently nodded.

Steel Night tilted his head thoughtfully. “It looked like Prince Artemis deliberately created an opening in his defense. He allowed his father to attack him.” I wonder why.

Sundance glanced at Steel Night before looking up at her husband and their son. He’s right. Why would Artemis do that?

Midnight Armor managed to roll slightly to the left so that he landed on his side instead of on his wings. That was close. I could have broken both of my wings.

Artemis landed next to his father. “I was wondering how long it would take you to figure that out.”

Midnight Armor climbed to his hooves before turning to his son. “Excuse me?”

“As you know, your favorite stance has a single weak point.” Artemis explained “In fact, the way that you attacked me highlights that weakness. I discovered that when a rather large rogue manticore managed get a claw in just the right spot. The pain was so intense that I collapsed.” He shuddered “The manticore used that as an opportunity to take a bite out of my right shoulder. I rolled over as it went in for another bite.” He shuddered again “Fortunately, I was able to destroy it with a powerful blast of magic before it got the chance.”

Midnight Armor shuddered as well. I am glad that he was able to destroy that Manticore.

“That is why I decided to alter your favorite stance.” Artemis finished

“I see.” Midnight Armor slowly replied I don’t blame him for that.

“You won’t be able to do that again.” Artemis chuckled when his father’s expression changed. “It looks like you don’t believe me.” He smiled “Would you like to try it?”

This is new. My son is testing me. Midnight Armor answered the question by vanishing.

Laughing softly, Artemis shook his head before vanishing as well.

“Where did they go this time?” Steel Night asked

Midnight Fang was about to respond, but paused when he noticed that Twilight was looking at a particular part of the sky. Curious, he followed her gaze. There is nothing there.

I wonder if they are able to track Artemis and Midnight. Sundance glanced at her daughters. Celestia has the right idea, but she is looking in the wrong direction. She laughed softly when Celestia suddenly looked in the opposite direction. It appears that she is a couple of seconds behind them. As for Twilight . . . She smiled when she saw that Twilight’s eyes were darting from side to side. It appears that she is able to track their movements.

Harmony took a closer look at Twilight’s expression. Why is she confused?

She probably doesn’t know what she is sensing. Sundance answered I am certain that this battle style hasn’t been used in centuries.

What are Midnight Armor and Artemis doing? Harmony asked

They are repeatedly hitting each other and teleporting away from each other. Sundance answered Both of them are doing this so quickly that most ponies aren’t able to track them.

I thought Artemis was faster than his father. Harmony commented

Sundance smiled It is true that Artemis is physically faster than his father, but this battle style focuses on their magic. Their spellcasting speed is roughly the same.

I see. Harmony slowly replied

Sundance and Twilight suddenly looked straight up. Sundance was about to react, but paused when Twilight quickly cast her force field. Everyone else gasped in shock when Artemis fell out of the sky.

Artemis landed on his back on top of his wife’s force field. He took a moment to catch his breath before rolling onto his hooves.

“What happened?” Steel Night asked

“Midnight surprised Artemis.” Sundance watched her son shake his head before closing his eyes.

There he is. Artemis opened his eyes.

What happened?! Night demanded I couldn’t track either of them. The next thing I knew, Artemis was falling out of the sky!

“I was careless.” Artemis muttered “It won’t happen again.”

Everyone in the shield looked on as Artemis vanished again.

Sundance glanced at Twilight. “Well done.”

Twilight released her force field before smiling at her mother. “Thanks.”

Everyone on the ground returned their attention to the sky. Their eyes widened when Midnight Armor and Artemis suddenly reappeared.

It was clear that Midnight Armor had tried to exploit his favorite stance’s weak point again, but Artemis had rolled onto his back in midair.

Artemis launched a beam of magic at his father from point blank range.

Thinking quickly, Midnight Armor teleported out of the way. He reappeared to the left of his son, but at a slightly lower altitude. I’d like to see him block me this time.