-Two Days Later-

Grevin sighed as he lay in a bed that was just a little too short with his body curled up just so he could fit on the mattress without his feet sticking over the edge. Currently he was riding along in a section of a private train car which held a total of seven beds which was meant for the mane six when they go to Canterlot on royal business. His discomfort was worsened when he felt his swords clang steadily against the back of his armor through his cloak. He knew that within a day he would be meeting the lands great leaders, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.

Whenever he had met any sort of Royalty in Bastion, he had to adhere to a certain set of rules concerning etiquette and behavior. One such rule was that if you belonged to a guild of any sort, or if you were recognized as a knight in any kingdom, you would be required to wear your armor when coming before a ruling member of the land as a sign of respect. By presenting yourself in armor you were making an unspoken statement that you would be willing to fight in defense of the kingdom against any threats to the peace. If one did not show up in their armor, it could be taken as a personal insult to the leadership which would usually result in what would be considered a fairly bad day.

His comfort was minimal but he refused to leave Ponyville riding something called a Train and go to the capitol without his gear. The train, which looked to be a large, and quite colorful, mechanical engine, pulled several cars behind in a long line rested on long steel beams called tracks and from what he learned it could achieve some high speeds while still allowing passengers to have wonderful views of the landscape as they traveled. All in all it was a very unique and he had to admit, convenient method of travel. He could only smirk at the thought of how transportation like this could affect the trade routes of Bastion.

He shifted his shoulders once more in an attempt to make himself more comfortable while he thought about how his situation had reached this point. It all started two days after his welcoming party at Ponyville. He was preparing for the his daily routine just after returning from his usual training in the orchard, his thoughts going back to everything that had occurred over the last few days. His nerves were still a little on edge due to the orange mare Applejack who, while still being good natured about it, had managed to get him fairly flustered the day before. She had joined him in a pond while he was cleaning himself up and had refused to leave the water until he did first. He had managed to use the shirt he was washing as a makeshift cover as he did his best to climb out of the water without allowing her see him and for the most part he thought he had succeeded until the teasing mare had trotted up to him afterwards, gave him a small, friendly bump with her hip and commented on how he had a cute flank.

Needless to say he wasn’t very happy about what had happened and despite the blush on his face he was able to tell her as such. As the day progressed and the two made their way into the orchard, he would hardly speak to her nor look into her eyes. He wasn’t rude towards her nor did he yell, but he wouldn’t engage in idle chat either. Near the end of the day, as the sun was just beginning to set, she had finally had enough and with the use of her strong legs, she was able to first shove him back against a tree and then hold him there long enough to get her thoughts out. He recalled how he felt the light pressure of her forehooves on his chest as she looked up at him with sad green eyes and drooped ears. He could have easily pushed her back but he couldn’t help but feel concern over how upset she really was and to be honest he hated seeing her in that state so he allowed her to speak.

For a few moments all she did was look up at him and then finally she averted her gaze while taking a small steadying breath. “Ah Apologize. It was downright low of me to jump into that water with you when ah knew you were completely uncovered. You trusted me to not peek at you and I violated that trust. Ah want you to know that I was just hoping to get you to relax a bit, maybe have a splash fight…enjoy a small swim, that’s it. Everything else was me trying to tease you. Ah didn’t even think about looking past the water line, and I didn’t peek at you when you climbed out of the pond.”

She sighed and pulled back and stood on all four legs now looking up at him with what he could only describe as pure remorse on her face her ears drooped down. “I feel lower than a snakes belly and the last thing I want to have happen is to make the one person who has helped mah family so much feel uncomfortable.” She took a small steadying breath before continuing. “I hope you can forgive me and we can put this behind us.”

For a few moments he said nothing then slowly he knelt down so he was more at eye level with her. Choosing his words carefully he began to speak. “Applejack, you’re right, you did violate my trust,” He watched her ears droop further as she began to lower her head but he reached out and gently rested his finger under her chin raising her gaze back up to meet his. “However, I do understand why you did what you did. I understand that I am not exactly the most open person in the world, and I understand that you were just trying to get me to relax and open up.”

He watched her carefully as she sat on her haunches while he pulled his hand back. “I appreciate that you want me to become more open and relaxed, but please understand that due to my past experiences, I tend to keep myself very guarded. I play things close to the chest and it takes me a very long time to adjust to new people…erm…ponies and experiences. I want you to know that I appreciate everything you, your family, and your friends have done for me and hope to someday repay that. All I ask for is continued patience with me and perhaps over time I will open up more.”

She nodded as her ears returned to their normal position a small look of relief returning to her eyes as well as something he couldn’t quite identify. “So…yah accept my apology?”

He nodded “Of course. Lets just put this behind us and move on. It'll be as though it never happened.” He cringed mentally, noting that this was the second time in less than a week that he had said that.

She grinned and nodded “Sounds fair to me.” She took a few steps back waiting for him to walk with her back towards the main farm and as he did she would playfully bump his hip with hers in a light hearted pushing game.

He had thought that was the end of the drama from that day but then as he was helping Applejack prepare dinner there had been a series of knocks from the front door. Applejack left him to cook up the various veggies they had decided on for the evening and soon returned with Twilight coming up right behind her. He had glanced over his shoulder and greeted the lavender mare only to have her give a quiet polite reply and look down her cheeks turning red as she did.

He knew she was feeling conscientious about what had occurred before so he decided to try and ease her fears by pulling a third plate from the cupboards and insisted that she stay and join them for dinner. He had noticed that Applejack quickly hid a small scowl on her face when he had invited Twilight to dinner with them, but he paid it no mind.

Eventually Twilight agreed and after a while she had perked up and told them what had brought her out to the farm so late in the evening. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had requested his presence in Canterlot next week...he had only a couple of days to prepare before they left. She also told Applejack that the others were invited to come as well, which did make Grevin feel a bit better about the whole thing. If he was going to have to present himself in the capitol, at least he would have good company with him.

He was curious as to why it was just now that they were requesting to meet him. He found it odd that the two would wait so long considering his abilities and his abrupt arrival to the land. Twilight simply smiled and shook her head telling him that she had actually been keeping tabs on him for the Princesses through her routine letters and that they waited till now most likely because of his actions in helping the CMC's and Fluttershy that first day. She said that they wanted to give him time to get used to things before putting more onto his plate. While he found it odd, he did accept the explanation and let the subject drop.

Two days, and several tutoring sessions with all of the mane six later, he found himself in the very front of the passenger car he was riding in now surrounded by the bearers of the Elements of Harmony. At first he was worried about Twilight feeling awkward around him, but he found himself surprised to see that she had indeed cheered up and would even talk to and make eye contact with him.

A sudden shift in the tilt of the car told pulled Grevin from his thoughts. He took a moment to realize that the train must have begun it's climb up the mountains while on route to Canterlot. He shifted his position once more as his thoughts moved to the conversation he had before making his way to this car before the others.

He had found himself a seat and the moment he settled himself, he found himself surrounded on all sides. Twilight teleported herself into the seat on his left while Applejack sat herself to his right, both sitting a little too close for his comfort. Rarity sat herself down across from him along with Fluttershy while Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie spent their time across the aisle staring out at the passing landscape.

For a time the conversation was quiet for the most part, mainly with Rarity asking him about how clothing or objects could be enchanted with some sort of magical energy, similar to how his cloak could hide his face. He had explained that many magic users could infuse certain qualities into objects and even gave some examples. He had listed things such as rope that could have it's tensile strength increased to hold loads that normally would snap it in two, or perhaps a jacket that would have a protection spell infused into it so that it would protect it's wearer from magical or physical attack. The possibilities could be endless, and Rarity became quite enthusiastic about it.

She had stated that with Twilight's help she could create a brand new line of clothing based with these extra features. She could create protective clothing for royal guards, police ponies, fire ponies, all kinds of important ponies in all of Equestria. It would be a game changer. She had insisted on beginning the process of creating samples of these clothes as soon as they returned from Canterlot. He had to admit, if it helped keep ponies safe and ease work, then he was happy to have helped the process but the enthusiasm of the purple maned fashonista seemed a bit much to him.

As the trip continued and the sun sank below the horizon and the previous conversation had concluded, the pink party pony had began to think of new ways to entertain herself. “This is so much fun everypony, it's just like a sleepover...that's moving! Isn't that awesome! We should totally play a game!” She plopped herself down next to Fluttershy who squeaked slightly at the manic pony.

Applejack chuckled and shook her head. “Uh, Pinkie, not to be a downer, but what kind of game could we play on a moving train in dim light?”

Pinkie raised her hoof to her chin and posed as though she were thinking then suddenly raised into the air with a gasp as a giant grin washed over her face. “Oh-oh-oh I know! We could play Truth or Dare!”

This made Rarity and Applejack lock eyes as a slight cringe washed across their faces. Their previous experience with this game was at the sleepover with Twilight...though they had come to a much better understanding since that time.

Rainbow Dash grinned as the gears in her head began to turn. This game could be great for some laughs. “I am so in. How about the rest of you?”

Twilight smiled and gave a nod as Fluttershy even gave a meek, but positive answer. Applejack and Rarity both smirked. “Ah'm in!” “As am I darling.”

Pinkie Pie looked at Grevin with a large grin “Well how about Grevy?”

He took a moment to decide whether or not he should correct his name to the pink wonder, he decided to leave it be and gave a small nod. He had never heard of this game, but if it was as it sounded, it would probably play like a game back on Bastion called Facts or Feats. “I'll play for a few rounds, but after that I think I should hit the sack.”

Pinkie cheered and pulled an empty bottle from behind her back and set it on the ground as the group formed the best circle they could in the space provided. Within moments the bottle was spinning the whole group leaning in as it began to slow until it finally stopped pointing at Rainbow Dash who puffed out her chest and laughed. “Ok Pinkie, hit me with a good one, Dare.”

Pinkie laughed and immediately dared her to fly around the train's exterior five times in under three minutes to which Dash simply laughed and had shot out a window leaving a rainbow colored trail behind her only to return in just under ten seconds. That had caught him by surprise. “Sheesh Pinkie, you know I'm the fastest flyer in all of Equestria. I need a real challenge. Ok, it's my turn.”

She spun the bottle and moments later it had stopped, this time pointing at the purple maned fashonista Rarity. She flicked her hair away from her eyes and smiled. “There is no way I'm going to try to do a dare you suggest Rainbow Dash. I'll take truth.”

Rainbow snickered and narrowed her eyes. “Alright then, tell us how you feel about your favorite helper 'spikey wikey'.”

Rarity paused her eyes widening as her cheeks began to redden. “I...well..you see...I...uh...” She took a deep breath and looked away. “ I like his company, and I know how he feels, but I just don't know if I like him more than a friend....though he is very kind and somewhat dashing in his own way...” She looked back at Rainbow “Satisfied?”

Rainbow nodded as she took her seat. “Sure am, now keep it going, no weak dares or questions.”

Rarity composed her self and a moment later the bottle was enveloped by a light blue glow and began to spin. “Fine.” It sped up moving faster and faster until the glow faded and it began to slow down until it finally pointed at it's next target, Grevin.

He frowned a bit not expecting to be pointed out so early on in the game but accepted his fate. “Alright then...I suppose I could answer a question. Truth.”

Rarity smirked and nodded. “Alright darling, I hate to embarrass you but I am curious. What physical feature of the opposite sex first draws your attention?”

He blinked caught off guard by that one. “I..well...um....” He really hadn't given it much thought. The question seemed harmless enough though. “If I had to decide on one thing that first gets my attention, I suppose it would be their eyes. A lot of emotion can be shown through them. Anger, allure, frustration, happiness...the list is endless.”

Rarity smiled and sat back as he leaned forward and took his turn to spin the bottle, unbeknownst to him a small smile had formed on the lips of both Twilight and Applejack. Once again it slowed to a halt this time pointing at Fluttershy. The shy pony scooted back a bit but gave a quiet response. “Truth...if...um...that's ok.”

He nodded. “Of course. Are there times when you aren't shy?”

She smiled, her eyes brightening. “Oh yes, but not often. I have something called 'The Stare' which I can't control, but it comes in handy when my friends are in danger...um...does that answer the question?”

He again nodded as he sat back and watched as the game continued on for a time like that with each of the mane six eventually earning themselves a chance in the hot seat. After about a half hour Grevin felt himself grow quite tired and after several yawns he decided that it would be best for him to take his exit. Rising from his seat he excused himself despite the complaints of the girls and made his way back to the doorway that led to the bunk area. This is where he found himself now. He closed his eyes and prayed that his dreams wouldn't be nightmares as the clacking of the wheels on the track began to finally pull him off to a deep, much needed sleep.

-Main Car: The Mane Six-

Pinkie Pie waited for Grevin to shut the door behind him and then with a large grin she placed her hoof back on the bottle for another spin. “Alright girls, play time is over. Those last few rounds were easy, lets step it up ok?”

Rainbow laughed as she sat back resting her hooves behind her head. “It's about time. Those questions were so weak, and the dares weren't all that awesome.”

The bottle seemed to move slower this time, almost like it were trying to seek out it's next victim and after a few seconds it did. Applejack sat back as she tilted her stetson back away from her eyes. “Alright, I'll take truth.”

Pinkie grinned “Okie doki Loki, I want to know,” She leaned in as she “Do you have a special somepony yet?”

Applejack laughed and shook her head. “Nah, not yet, “ She glanced to the side her cheeks beginning to blush ever so slightly, “but I'm hopin to have one someday.”

Pinkie giggled “Really?? Who do you have in mind?”

Applejack laughed as she shook her head, her relaxed nature returning as quickly as it left. “Sorry Pinkie, but ah can't answer that one. Besides, I think it's mah turn.” She gave the bottle a strong spin and watched as it went round and round finally closing in, and settling on Rarity.

“Oh, well alright, I'll go with truth darling.”

Applejack smirked. “Well alright then. Have you ever given Spike a kiss...and ah don't mean on the cheek neither.”

Rarity blushed and looked to the side stammering a moment before answering. “Well...uh...yes, yes I have.”

Twilight's eyes widened. “What?!”

Rarity smiled sheepishly, “I know it's scandalous but I couldn't help it. He's always been so nice and helpful to me, and then when when we were in Canterlot he was such a gentlecolt, showing me around, helping me with designs, well...one night I just gave him a small kiss...as a thank you.”

Twilight nodded slightly her concern for Rarity kissing Spike being ignored as her thoughts took her in another direction. Spike...a baby dragon had been given his first kiss before she had been given hers. She couldn't believe it. Her ears drooped as she began to think that she may have missed her only chance. She was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she didn't see Rarity take her turn to spin and that the bottle had landed on her.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Applejack lightly elbowing her side. “Uh...Twi, you ok sugar-cube?”

Twilight pushed her thoughts down and put on her best smile. “Oh! Yes, absolutly. Truth.”

Rarity smiled. “Alright darling, we all know you spent a lot of time in Canterlot. While you were there, did you ever date a guard...maybe even have a few evenings of fun with one?”

Twilight sat there shocked a moment before laughing as she shook her head. “No, never. With Shining Armor in the barracks, none of the guards dared try to date me. Sure some of them were cute, and they were all nice to me, but never anything like that.”

Rarity frowned. “Oh, darling that's so dull. If I were you I would have gone to the barracks and found myself a nice stallion who could show me all over the city and palace...even introduce me to the elite of the elite in Canterlot.”

Rainbow Dash laughed as she sat back on her haunches. “Rarity, all you ever want to do is rub elbows with the elite of Canterlot.”

“Well of course darling, fashion can only spread through those in high places.”

Twilight rolled her eyes and allowed her magic to envelop the bottle spinning it once more watching as it finally stopped pointing at Rainbow Dash. “OK Rainbow, Truth or Dare?”

Dash smirked and narrowed her eyes. “Truth, and don't hold back, this game needs to be a lot more awesome.”

Twilight smirked, “Alright then, how about this? If you could spend one night with a celebrity, and do anything you wanted with them with no regrets, who would it be and what would you do?”

Dash laughed as she took to the air once again. “Now that's more like it, but that's easy. I would choose Soarin from the Wonderbolts! He is so cool...and cute.”

Applejack grinned. “Well, that's all fine and good sugar-cube, but what would you do with him?”

Rainbow gave a sly smile as she landed back in her seat her wings still pointed up. “That's easy...I'd make sure to give him a night he would never forget. We would go out for a dinner at the coolest restaurant in the town, then hit the most awesome dance clubs...and then when we went home I'd make sure he'd have a night he would never forget. After all he's a Wonderbolt, he has to be real strong, agile and has to have lots of stamina.”

By now all the ponies had a blush on their faces, the realization of what their fiend had implied causing their thoughts to race. Rainbow didn't give them much time to recover though before reaching down and spinning the bottle once again. “Alright, lets see who's next!”

The bottle eventually landed on Fluttershy who tensed a bit, her cheeks still red from what Dash had said. “I...I....I....”

“Oh come on!”

Fluttershy let out a little squeal and closed her eyes. “DARE!”

Rainbow grinned as her eyes narrowed. “Alright...this one is going to be a good one. I dare you,” She leaned in and put a hoof around Fluttershy's shoulder, “to go into the next room,” She pointed with her free arm at the door to the bunk area, “And curl up with our newest friend for the rest of the night.”

The group gasped with wide eyes as Fluttershy's wings popped up her little form trembling. “..A...all night?”

“Yep, not gonna chicken out are you?”

Applejack shook her head as she stood up, Twilight next to her a hint of anger in both their eyes. “Hold on a minute there partner, Fluttershy, you don't have tah do that you know.”

Twilight nodded. “Rainbow give her another dare, that one is just a little much.”

Fluttershy rose to her hooves and moved forward towards the doorway her wings still standing up straight a small look of determination in her eyes, “Um...well, no, it's alright. I'll... I'll do it.”

The rest of the girls all watched as the cream colored mare made her way to the doorway. Little did they know that this actually was something she had actually secretly thought about since the night of his arrival to Equestria. In her mind it made sense really, he had saved her from death and from that moment forward she couldn't help but feel a small crush for the man, he was a hero, her hero. While she had a feeling that that crush would never be returned she would still enjoy his company. If she had to do something like this with anyone, she was glad it was him, she felt safe with him around.

She opened the door and made her way inside her gaze soon finding him in the back of the car laying on his side, his feet sticking out over the edge of the bed in his relaxed state. She smiled as she trotted closer and took a look at his face. Her eyes softened as she took in his features, the way his lips parted as he took in slow, even breaths. The peaceful look on his face made her feel much calmer about what she was about to do. She looked at how he was positioned for a moment before carefully flapping her wings to pull herself up to an exposed piece of bed just in front of his chest.

She took a moment to get her barings before laying down and huddling in close to him enjoying the warmth he gave off. A content smile washed over her face as she pulled her wings in close and snuggled even closer and curled into him. She listened to his steady breathing and could even hear the faint beating of his heart in the ear that rested against his chest. She closed her eyes letting herself relax and was soon contently asleep next to the one she admired.

In the next room, two ponies were fuming with frustration over what had just occurred. The one they liked was in another room, alone, with a mare who they were completely jealous of. Applejack glared at Dash who was still chuckling in her seat. “Rainbow, that's just not right. Grevin will wake up and either be so upset with Fluttershy, or he'll scare the daylights out of her when he wakes up.”

Twilight nodded. “I agree. It will end up like a mean prank.”

Pinkie laughed and shook her head. “No it won't. Grevin wouldn't do anything to scare Fluttershy, he's too nice. “

Rarity smirked. “Really darlings, it won't be that bad. Grevin will probably wake up confused and Fluttershy will explain things and that will be the end of it.”

The two mares frowned but slowly sat down while glancing at the doorway behind them, a similar thought running through their minds. They didn't want to reveal their feelings quiet yet so they kept the majority of their protests silent.

Pinkie Pie smirked as she reached for the bottle once again. “Oh, I have a good one, can I spin now?”

The group agreed to continue their game but after a few more rounds Twilight took the opportunity to fake a yawn and stretch her legs out effectively interrupting the party. “I'm sorry, but I think it's getting late. I think I'm going to go get some sleep. I want to be my best for when we see the princess's tomorrow you know.” She quickly moved to her hooves and started to make her way back to the sleeper car.

Applejack smiled, thankful for a way out and for a way to check up on what was going on in the back. “Well-sir, ah think I'll hit the hit the sack too.” She quickly fell into step behind Twilight while Pinkie just smiled and tossed the bottle into a trash can behind her as the rest soon fell into step.

Twilight did her best to open the door calmly, without making to much noise but her magic still caused a small pop as the door hit the wall. She quickly darted in and looked around frantically while Applejack moved past her, her gaze already set on the two figures in the back cuddled together sleeping peacefully.

Rarity let out a small laugh as she hopped up onto one of the bunks and levitated her eye mask out of her luggage. “Well now that is absolutely adorable.”

Rainbow Dash snickered as she flew over the two and then to her own bed. “I have to give her credit. I really thought she would chicken out. “

Twilight grumbled as she climbed into her bed, while Applejack simply jumped into hers and turned herself so she could still watch the two for as long as possible. A few moments later Rarity snuffed the only two candles in the room leaving them all in darkness.

-The next morning-

Grevin took a slow breath as she felt himself begin to wake, the now familiar clacking of the train tracks greeting his senses as he felt the haze of sleep begin to leave him. He kept his eyes closed enjoying the soft warmth of his bed letting his arms wrap around his pillow pulling against him hoping to get a few more hours sleep. He smiled slightly feeling the pillows warmth against his chest and it was pretty nice when it snuggled close enough to put it's arms around him and nuzzle into the side of his neck.

His breathing paused as a singular thought ran through his mind. Why was his pillow snuggling in and hugging him? He slowly opened his eyes and as they adjusted to the light he found a mass of pink mane just under his nose. 'She wouldn't...there is no way she would....'

He began to lower his gaze taking note of the cream colored coat and butterfly cutie mark of the mare now using him as a teddy bear, Fluttershy. He felt his pulse quicken as the nightmare he had days before returned to his mind in force. He took a slow even breath as he turned his head bringing her face into view. Her eyes were closed and there was a small content smile on her face that seemed to grow as she snuggled in further against him, effectively using him as a sleeping mat. He blinked taking the sight in and he couldn't help but reach a hand out and push a small strand of pink mane away from her face. He had to admit it was cute, very cute, but he didn't like the idea of being caught in this position.

Slowly and ever so gently he reached his hands under her shoulders and began to try and push her off of him without disturbing her. At first she grumbled in her sleep but soon settled as she began to maneuver himself out from under her. He slowly shifted her off of him and was beginning to slide out just far enough that he could put his feet on the floor when a loud gasp caught his attention and threw off his balance.

“GOOD MORNING!” Pinkie Pie shouted just to his right, a manic and bright smile plastered on her face.

“Gaaahh!” Grevin fell back to the floor hitting the back of his head with a solid thunk. Unfortunately at the same moment he tried to grab onto the nearest item to catch himself and Fluttershy was pulled atop him in the fall.

The cream coated mare was jolted from her sleep only to find herself atop Grevin in a rather awkward position, her legs straddling him at the waist and chest, her forehead pressed to his looking into his eyes. Her wings popped up as she squeaked. “Oh..my...” She quickly pulled back and flapped her wings lifting off the groaning man, who as soon as she was airborne had turned onto his side and sat up.

“Dammit...” He glanced around and sighed, deciding once again to watch his language. That sounded so weak. He turned to look at the rest of the Mane Six taking note that Twilight as well as Applejack were glaring daggers at Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie who were both on their backs laughing. “...Anyone care to explain why the hell I woke up with Fluttershy in my bunk?”

Fluttershy swooped down and gave him her best apologetic look with her soft cyan eyes that seemed to shimmer on the edge of tears. “I'm sorry, It was just part of a game, honest.”

He slowly rose to his feet crossing his arms. “A game? Are you referring to a particular game that was played last night?”

She nodded as she landed and sat on her haunches. “Well...yes. You see, Rainbow dared me to come in here and sleep beside you for the evening. You can't turn down dares in that game and...well...you're not mad are you?” She looked down at the floor as she lightly circled the ground with her right hoof.

He pinched the bridge of his nose and took a slow calming breath. “No, no I'm not angry, just caught a bit off guard, that's all.” He reached down and placed a light reassuring hand on her shoulder.

She smiled and sheepishly nodded. “Ok...if you say so.”

He looked out the window noting that the once distant city of Canterlot was now looming closer and closer. “Well, it looks like we're almost to the city...” He adjusted his cloak over his shoulders and reached back pulling his hood up enveloping his face in shadow. “Better get ready everyone.”

Pinkie smirked and stuck her tongue out “You mean pony.” Grevin threw his pillow at her as she giggled and ducked out of the way.

-Canterlot: Late morning-

The train had arrived with relatively little difficulty and the group was met the moment they left the train car by a group of four royal guards. They approached the mane six as they were gathering their saddle bags and the one in charge, a unicorn with a brown coat, white mane and blue eyes approached Twilight with a smile on his face. “Hello Ms. Sparkle. My name is Lieutenant Spearhead. The Captain asked us to escort you, your friends, and our newest guest to the castle when you're ready...” He glanced around a bit “Um...where is our newest guest?”

Grevin slowly stepped down from the train and shifted his sword on his back, checked the blade on his hip and then slid the strap of a new pack onto his shoulder. He reached up and gave his hood a small tug on it making certain it still covered his face. He slowly walked up behind Twilight keeping his hands open and at his sides so he wouldn't catch the guards off balance.

Spearhead's eyes widened as he watched the tall dark figure approach, his gaze moving from the shadow covered face to the armor on its chest, then hands and finally legs. He took a small step back and looked at Twilight who had a small smirk on her face. “I...is...is that our new guest?”

Twilight nodded as Grevin slowly stepped around her and stopped standing next to her. “Sure is. Gentle-colts, allow me to introduce Grevin Hades.”

Grevin slowly brought his hands together and gave a slow partial bow before speaking. “Greetings Spearhead...I want to thank you for allowing me to enter your fine city. I give you my word that I will do my best to respect your rules and customs while I'm here.”

Spearhead stood there shocked for a moment before slowly nodding. “Alright...I thank you for that.” He took a moment to compose himself and then cleared his throat drawing the attention of the group. “Alright everypony, gather your things. We are going straight to the castle with no stops. We're sticking to our more isolated routes until the princess's decide it's safe for our guest to take to the regular streets...Alright, lets go.”

The group made their way through the city sticking mostly to the outer edges and alleyways, drawing as little attention as possible. After about an hour or traveling they finally reached the tall, majestic outer walls of the castle. The guards led the small group through a secluded side entrance and then through a beautiful garden that was lush with all manners of flowers and trees.

Eventually the group found itself in the main foyer of the castle just outside the thrown room and as they walked, Grevin couldn't help but feel impressed at the sheer size and beauty of the entire castle. The stone work was smooth and the ornate tapestries were beautiful...he had never seen anything like it. He took in his surroundings as best he could, noting that they were fairly high up on the cliff side on which the city was built. He noticed that there were towers which still sat higher than the main chamber, which he assumed were royal bed chambers, and guest quarters. His gaze was brought back to the front when he heard Twilight gasp and suddenly run forward past Spearhead towards a pony he had never seen before who was standing in front a a very large set of golden double doors.

Grevin slowed his walk as he looked at this newest pony. Clearly female, she had a multicolored mane of magenta, yellow and purple. Her eyes were a light lavender, similar to Twilights coat, and her coat was a soft pink color. Atop her head rested a small crown and she had golden slippers on her feet. He also noticed that her cutie mark was a kind of glass shaped heart, but really drew his attention was the fact that she had a larger horn than the typical pony and a set of pegasus wings. She had to be royalty...had to be.

Twilight bounded forward her eyes wide with joy “Cadance!”

The princess smiled and trotted forward to meet her new sister in law. “Twilight!”

The two came together and hugged before hunkering down facing one another. “Sunshine, sunshine, lady bugs awake, clap your hooves and do a little shake!” The two hugged again and laughed bringing a small smile to everyone's face.

Cadence stepped back as they stood up and turned to face the others. “Hello everyone, it's so good to see you again...I hope you're all doing well.” She turned her gaze to Grevin who stood silently with his hands behind his back. “And I believe you must be our newest friend.”

She slowly made her way through the group until she stood before him stopping just two feet in front of him. She politely bowed her head “I am Princess Mi Amore Cadenza...but please call me Cadance. Welcome to Equestria...Mr...?”

Grevin smiled from behind his hood and gave a small bow of his own. “Hades...but please call me Grevin. Thank you for allowing me to come visit your fine capitol.”

Cadence shook her head with a small laugh. “Actually...that wasn't my doing. I am still glad you came, but Celestia and Luna requested you specifically.” She turned her head to the others. “Actually, that's why I'm here. They told me that they wished to speak to Grevin alone. I've been asked to take take him to the stone garden and then take the rest of you all to the banquet hall for some lunch.”

Applejack frowned as she stepped forward. “Uh...princess, not to be rude or nuthin, but is that a good idea? Grevin has no idea where anything is here. What if he gets lost or something?”

Cadance smiled and shook her head. “Not to worry, the princess's will meet with him shortly, they just had to take care of some other business before hand. The garden is always guarded and it's close to the throne room.” She turned to face Grevin once more. “You don't mind do you?”

She shook his head as she returned his hands behind his back. “Of course not...I understand that running a kingdom is very taxing and it keeps rulers busy. I will wait as long as I am required too.”

Cadance smiles and nodded. “Thank you. Please follow me...Spearhead, you and your squad are dismissed. Thank you for your time.”

He nodded and gave a small salute before turning and walking off with the rest of the guards. She then turned and led the group through a few hallways before stepping outside into what Grevin could only describe as a massive display of exterior art. This sculpture garden was quite large with all manners of flowers, shrubs, and hedges all lined with smooth marble paths that led to all manners of beautiful stone statues. Cadance turned and smiled at him. “Please feel free to look around. Somepony will come find you when it is time to meet the princess's.”

“Very well, thank you.” He began to step around his friends but found his hand being pulled back. Glancing down he saw a light purple glow enveloping his glove. Looking to Twilight he could see a small look of worry in her eyes. “Twilight?”

She sheepishly smiled as she let his hand go. “Sorry...I just want to tell you to be yourself around the princess's. They are very nice and kind, so don't worry about anything. Ok?”

He nodded and turned giving a curt nod to the group. “I'm sure I'll see you shortly. Enjoy your lunch.”

As the group left he turned and made his way through the various stone statues taking note of just how intricate the detail was on many of them. He came across some of a older looking unicorn pony with a large beard and a unique hat...most likely a wizard of some sort. He eventually found a small title plaque which read 'Star Swirl The Bearded'.

He continued on his path pausing when he saw a rather unique looking statue several feet away from him. From a distance it seemed quite unique so he made his way over to it and after a few moments he found himself standing in front of what he could only describe as the most lifelike piece of stone work he had ever seen. The interesting thing was that it was a mis-mash of various animals thrown together into some form he had never seen before. He quickly looked around for some sort of title plaque but found nothing.

He took a moment to look at the expression on the statues face. It was clearly afraid of something, appearing to be crying out with wide eyes. He couldn't help but notice the artists work on the different body parts, making this creature something that is so abnormal, so...chaotic that it would by it's very nature be disruptive. He could relate to that. By him just being alive, many terrible things had occurred back in Bastion. He could only hope that his time in Equestria wouldn't be the same.

Shrugging his shoulders with a small sigh he turned and began to walk to the next stone statue. After about a half hour of wandering the garden his attention was drawn by the sound of someone clearing their throat behind him. Turning he found himself facing a male unicorn in a military uniform. His coat was white, his mane two different shades of blue and his eyes were a light cyan color. His cutie mark was a shield that seemed to have a symbol on it that was similar to Twilight's cutie mark. “Are you Mr. Hades?”

Grevin smiled and nodded. “I am, but please call me Grevin...Mr. Hades is far to formal.”

The unicorn smiled “Very well Grevin. My name is Shining Armor. I'm a Captain in the Royal Guard and I've been asked to escort you to meet the princess's. “ He took a small step the side and pointed to the path leading back into the castle. “Would you please follow me?”

“Of course.” Grevin fell into step next to Shining who then led him back through castle halls to the foyer with the large golden doors.

Shining glanced at Grevin taking in just how tall he was, as well as how easily he walked while being on two legs instead of four. “So...you've been in Ponyville since you arrived?”

“Yes. The ponies there have been very kind to me. They have given me a place to stay, food to eat, even clothing.”

Shining armor smirked “Sounds like they are a great bunch.”

Grevin smiled and nodded. “Indeed. In my homeland I was only shown that kind of generosity and kindness by a select few. They are a special bunch, I must admit.”

Shining grinned as his horn began to glow and the golden doors opened slightly. “I'll have to make sure to tell them that. I tend to believe that if somepony gives a compliment about another when they aren't there, then they need to be told that...otherwise, it does no good.” He cleared his throat a bit and nodded to the now open door. “The princess's are waiting for you. Perhaps I'll meet you again.”

“Perhaps so.” Grevin nodded and turned crossing into the large throne room only pausing as he heard the door close behind him. As soon as it shut he allowed his senses to take in everything he could about the room, and the first thing that hit him was just how vast the room was.

The ceiling was tall and ornate, painted with a mural with vivid images of what he had to guess were various ponies throughout history. The windows were stain glass, all of which also told stories of the past. The room was bright and warm despite being so open, and he could see various guards on a balcony and by the windows and doors. The floor was a pristine white with a long red carpet leading up to a set of stairs where two large thrones sat. What made him take pause though was what he saw sitting in those thrones. There were two large ponies that wore crowns and as different as night and day.

The first was the taller of the two and her mane was something he could only describe as mythical. It was blue, pink, and green and it was ever flowing yet still. Her coat was a smooth, bright white, and her eyes were a soft pink. She had a golden crown, chest plate and gold plated hoof coverings. Her cutie mark was a bright symbol of the sun.

The second had a dark blue coat, and mane that he could only describe as a celestial body, flowing and sparkling with stars. Her crown was dark, as were her hoof coverings and chest plate. Her cutie mark was a crescent moon and her eyes were a soft blue. Both of these ponies had large horns and wings tucked into their sides.

He began to step forward slowly keeping his hands at his sides as the two ponies rose and watched him approach. As he reached the base of the stairs to the throne, two guards stepped forward to meet him blocking his path. The white pony began to step forward when she felt an arm holding her back. Glancing to her side her eyes widened seeing the serious look on her sisters face.

Celestia frowned and leaned her head down. “Luna...what are you doing?”

Luna's gaze never wavered from Grevin as she spoke in a soft but serious tone, her eyes narrowed. “Sister...I ask that you let me speak first.”

Celestia nodded seeing the look in her sisters face. “Very well.”

Luna cleared her throat before speaking. “Thou is a guest in our world, and you come before us with your face covered and weapons on your person?”

Grevin nodded and took a small step back before sliding down to a kneeling position with his head lowered. He knew from past experiences in Bastion that this could be seen as a very serious insult to the royalty. He had to correct this before things got out of hand. “I apologize if this insulted you, your highness. In my home land of Bastion, when one is brought before royalty a warrior of a guild or knight status must wear their weapons and armor as a way of showing respect.”

Luna lowered her arm and perked an eyebrow. “Respect?”

Grevin kept his eyes downcast as he spoke. “Indeed. By wearing their weapons and armor they are stating that if the kingdom were to ever fall under siege, then the person would be willing to fight and if need, perish to protect the kingdom. I meant no disrespect.”

Luna said nothing for a moment but then smirked and looked to her sister. “Tia, I believe he is trustworthy.”

Celestia smiled and nodded. “Mr. Hades, we ask that you please give your weapons to the guards when you are in the throne room. We give you our word that they will be returned to you when you leave.”

Rising to his feet Grevin slowly and proceeded to remove his two blades, and removed the hidden blades in his gauntlets. He handed them over to two guards that had walked up beside him. “Very well.”

As the guards returned to their posts with his weapons on their backs, Grevin returned his gaze to the two princess's standing before him. He slowly placed his hands behind his back, standing at attention taking note of the small smiles on their lips.

Celestia stepped forward her gaze piercing into him as if she were looking into the depths of his soul. He hadn't felt a gaze like that on him in a very long time. “Grevin...Twilight Sparkle has written and told us quite a bit about you. She informed us of how you seemed to appear randomly one day and on that same day risked your life to save not only three young filly's but then within twelve hours you also saved one of the bearers of the Elements of Harmony, Fluttershy. She also told us just how you went about saving Fluttershy's life though a unique magic which, placed your own life at risk.”

Her gaze softened a bit as her sister moved to stand beside her. “Indeed, my sister speaks the truth. Twilight Sparkle has been attempting to learn about the sort of magic you have used.” Luna smiled a bit as she took a breath. “She has also informed us of how she and the other Elements have introduced you to the ponies of Ponyville, with some success.”

Celestia nodded. “Both my sister and I want to thank you for all the good you have done for Ponyville in your relatively short time here, and for what you will do in the future.”

Grevin tilted his head back a bit in confusion. “What I will do in the future? What do you mean?”

Luna nodded slowly her eyes unwaivering. “Thy actions have already shown us a great deal about thyself. You act without concern for yourself to help others...which tells us you are likely to do it again. A trait that is rare indeed...and also dangerous.”

Celestia sighed and kept her gaze steady. “She also informed us of your troubles involving your home land, and your frustration about not being able to complete your quest there.”

Grevin frowned and shifted his weight crossing his arms over his chest. “Aye...I have had to find a way to vent my frustrations. I've taken to training in a remote part of Sweet Apple Acres. I don't wish to make any of the residents of Ponyville uncomfortable when I swing my weapons around.”

Celestia nodded. “That is acceptable. We just wish to ask you a few questions, that is all.”

Luna stepped forward. “Grevin...let us stop dancing around the subject. Whatever you tell us here will stay here. No information will be shared unless you wish it. Do you understand?”

He nodded quietly. He had a feeling this may happen, and he also had a feeling that he knew what questions may be asked. “I do. Please, let's go ahead and begin. I know you mean me no harm and are simply looking out for the best interests of Equestria.”

Celestia smiled. “Thank you for understanding. Very well, let's start with the most prominent question first. We know you can use magic, and we know you're not a human exactly...so...please tell us what you are and what you can do.”

Grevin sighed looking down. He knew that was going to be one of the questions, but he didn't expect it to be the first one. It was always hard for him to explain just how he came into existence...but then again, in this world of magic, it just might make more sense than back at Bastion. “Very well...I will tell you about what I am. Please understand, this involves looking back at the past history of Bastion, so I'll do my best to explain. It all begin with two races of people, both of whom were very different from not only each other, but also the people of Bastion....”

Authors Note: Hey everyone. I hope you like this chapter, it's taken me a while to write. I really wanted to get to, and expand on the second half of the chapter sooner, but as I was writing, it just didn't feel right to just plop the cast down into Canterlot. So I ended up writing the train scene, which I hope didn't drive to many people off.

As for Canterlot, well, when I got to it, I found that I would have a better time just making it into it's own chapter, so coming up will be a good chunk of explanation and hopefully a return to action. After all, you know I can't have our hero in the capitol without some hijinks ensuing.

On the home front, our little one has finally come home after four months so now my chapters will probably upload a lot further apart. Instead of weakly or every two weeks, more likely three to four weeks. This is in part due to the little one, as well as my work beginning to ramp up once again. No worries I'll still post, I swear it. This story is stuck in my head and I gotta get it out.

As always please review and let me know your thoughts in a review. Also as always I'll do my best to stay in cannon to both the story and series. Thanks again for taking the time to read my work. I hope you enjoy it. Have a good one. /)*(\