Grevin shifted in his armor and cloak, his swords sheathed at their normal places on his back and side while he rested his pack and a garment bag next to him on the arrival platform. He was surrounded by his friends, all of whom were gathered to send him off to Canterlot with their best wishes.

Twilight, Fluttershy and Applejack stood in front of him and just behind them was Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Emerald (a.k.a. Chrysalis). Just behind them, back in the shadows of the station, stood Tabitha with crossed arms and a solemn look in her eyes as she tapped her foot in an annoyed fashion.

“Alright Grevin, have you double checked your bags? Did you remember to pack your new Gala outfit? You still have time to triple check.” Twilight’s horn lit up causing a small list to float up next to her as well as a quill.

Fluttershy smiled softly and reached up placing a gentle hoof on Grevin’s arm. “Remember to get plenty of sleep and eat your vegetables. Oh and don’t be afraid to ask for directions if you get lost-“

“And don’t forget to enjoy some Apples while you’re there…and feel free to tell some of those hoity toity ponies about the best Apples in Equestria while you’re there.” Applejack pushed her way in and gave him a playful shove with her hoof.

Grevin rolled his eyes a bit but smiled and gave a small nod. “Alright, alright, don’t worry. I’ve got everything I’ll need and I’ll make certain to good care of myself while I’m gone. Just promise me you’ll all do the same for yourselves.” He glanced up and locked eyes with Tabitha who paused in her foot tapping and smiled softly at him only to make him scowl a bit. “Especially since I can’t be here to keep her in check…”

Tabitha frowned and stepped forward letting her hands drop to her sides. “Grevin I’ve been working on the farm side by side with the Apples for about a month or so now and nothing has happened. When will you stop expecting me to attack and treat me like a regular person?”

Grevin narrowed his eyes and shook his head a hint of malice forming in his voice. “Perhaps when I come back I’ll treat you like a normal person, but if you expect me to trust you…that will never happen.”

She frowned and turned her head before flicking a strand of her hair from her eyes. “…Be that way…I’ll get you to change your mind someday.” She walked off with clenched fists, her footfalls heavy on the wooden walkway of the platform.

Pinkie Pie glanced at the distant form of Tabitha before looking back at Grevin with drooped ears and a small frown on her face. “Did you have to be such a meanie too her Grevin? It wasn’t very nice.”

Grevin sighed and lightly pinched the bridge of his nose before looking the pink mare in the eyes. “Pinkie, I know it isn’t nice but I just cannot bring myself to forgive her. If you had experienced what I did, would you be able to so easily forgive someone?”

Pinkie blinked a moment before simply smiling and nodding. “Absolutely, I can forgive anypony given enough time. I think any of us could.”

Grevin smiled sadly and nodded. “Well…you’re a better…pony than I am. I simply couldn’t…and I don’t think I would ever want too.”

Pinkie giggled and hopped in place a few times. “Well duh, you’re not a pony at all,” She paused as she brought a hoof to her chin. “Hmm…I wonder if the author will ever get that sort of thing right?”

Rainbow Dash laughed and patted Pinkie on the back “Pinkie Pie, you are so random! I love it.”

Rarity rolled her eyes and stepped forward to Grevin a soft smile on her lips, her eyes sparkling as they looked up at him. “Darling, do please take care of your new suit. While I did design it to stand up to more wear and tear I would prefer you would try to keep it in one piece.”

Grevin nodded. “Not a problem Rarity. I have no intention of putting it through any combat if I can help it.”

She smiled and nodded. “See that you don’t. It wouldn’t be proper for a Knight to be fighting at a Gala, especially wearing something that amazing.” The fashonista paused a moment averting her gaze briefly before looking back at him with soft eyes. “G-Grevin…about the other day, I wanted to apologize if I was –“

Grevin placed a single finger on her lips making her pause mid sentence causing a small hint of red to form on her cheeks in embarrassment. He gave her a soft smile and nodded in understanding. “Rarity…it was a one time thing and you were caught up in the emotion of it, I get it. I will not think any less of you and you should not think any less of yourself. As far as I am concerned nothing happened and all is well…are you ok with that?”

She smiled warmly and nodded as she took several steps back allowing Emerald to step forward. Emerald hopped up and gave Grevin a large hug before stepping back and sitting on her rump. “You have fun while you’re there Grevin. I hear it can be quite a town.”

“I’ll be sure to enjoy myself Emerald but I want you to do me a favor. Keep an eye on my friends for me will you? I don’t trust Tabitha and I don’t want any harm to come to them.”

Chrysalis blinked a moment her surprise quite evident. He just asked her to watch over the bearers of the Elements of Harmony…the very ponies that helped defeat her before. She should lie through her teeth and try to kill them when he is gone but at the same time…she felt no drive to do so. In fact she felt honor that he asked her to do that…honor of all things. “Y-yes, absolutely. I’ll do my best.”

He smiled and leaned in giving her another hug before rising back up and adjusting his armor once again. “Thank you.” He turned to the three mares that still stood nearby. “Now then…since the train is almost here, how about one more hug before I hop on board and get going?”

Before he could say anything further he was wrapped up in a bundle of legs, each mare holding onto him tightly nearly knocking him over until they let him go and took a few steps back just as the train headed for Canterlot pulled into the station. He felt his cheeks burn red due to the warmth and care he felt come from the three mares in his arms.

Pinkie Pie sniffed and rubbed her eye with a hoof while Rainbow Dash looked away while making a gagging noise and holding her stomach as she floated next to her. “Awww, it’s so cute!”

“ALL ABOARD FOR CANTERLOT!”

Grevin pulled back from Twilight, Fluttershy and Applejack giving each of them a soft smile before reaching down and taking his pack and garment bag. “I have to get going girls. Take care of each other, I’ll be back soon enough.”

The three mares took a step back and nodded as Grevin turned and boarded the nearest car disappearing from sight. The group all gathered together and waved as the train began to move and blew its whistle once more before pulling away from the station.

As the train pulled away Chrysalis watched Applejack, Twilight and Fluttershy each wave and stare at the train is it faded into the distance, a single question coming to her mind. “So…why isn’t anypony going with him to Canterlot? Haven’t you all been there before? Won’t he get lost?”

Applejack glanced back over her shoulder a small smile on her lips. “Nah, he’ll be fine.”

Twilight smiled as well and turned to face the rest of the group. “As for why we’re not going, we were asked by one of the Princesses to let him come alone.”

Chrysalis blinked as she sat down on her haunches her eyebrow quirking in surprise. “Oh really now? Well that’s interesting…”

-Ponyville, mid day -

Tabitha moved quietly through the center of Ponyville, her arms wrapped around herself as she kept her gaze down at her feet while her mind wandered to her situation. She needed to get Grevin to at least stop seeing her as hostile but at the same time she needed to find a way to get those ponies to leave her love alone.

These creatures, these ponies had given Grevin so much tolerance, so much love that he had become soft. He wasn’t cold, he wasn’t crafty, he lacked that killer instinct she had grown so custom to in Bastion…in short he wasn’t dangerous anymore. It was that hint of danger, the fact that he could easily end the life of any opponent he came across that attracted her initially and then the way he seemed to crumble under her gaze was the icing in the cake.

She learned that for every ounce a fighter he was, he was just as much a pushover when it came to the opposite sex. It made him a perfect tool to meet her needs in the guild, but over time she began to see him in a different light. The way he moved in combat, the graceful way he moved his blades as he tore his enemies asunder, the way his muscles moved with careful precision…it made her shiver in awe. Somehow she had become smitten with him to the point that he was almost always on her mind in some form or another. That was still true today. She had to do something, she had to get her love back to the way he was meant to be, but what, how? How could she make him see his potential once again?

She glanced around at the pastel ponies that inhabited this village causing her mind to wander back to the three mares that seemed to be near Grevin at any given moment, his three mistresses…the ones that took him from her.

Applejack, that orange farm pony, was clearly the strongest of the three in the physical sense. She had seen her rear up and kick a tree so hard that it shuddered before dropping its fruit into some carefully placed baskets around the trunk. Then after moving those said baskets onto a wagon, she had somehow pulled the heavy thing across the multiple acre farm and unload it all in the barn without breaking more than a light sweat. That kind of work would typically have her or any other person tired and sweaty but not that pony, she just went back for more. Combine that with her stubborn yet faithful nature and it was clear that she wouldn’t give up her hold on Grevin easily.

Twilight, the biggest bookwork of a pony was not physically intimidating in the slightest but her magical ability was off the scale. It honestly confused Tabitha. If that mare had this much power inside her, why not use it to take control? She could easily bend these weak ponies to her will, but instead of taking advantage of her potential she just sits idly by and acts like some kind of student for the one named Celestia. While she seemed like an ideal student, one thing she did seem protective of was Grevin. That pony had set her sights on him and it looked like nothing could sway her. Tabitha had seen things of that nature before and if she knew that if a seed of doubt could be planted and nurtured…then her devotion may crumble.

Finally there was the sickeningly sweet Pegasus mare Fluttershy. This mare was so full of kindness that it seemed like nothing could bring her to hate someone, in fact it seemed that the slightest thing could easily bring this mare to tears. However she had a secret to her that she did try to hide. When finally pushed over the edge, she could easily become a fierce adversary far more difficult to face that the other two…to the point that it was actually quite scary. Tabitha knew though that out of the three mares, she had the best chance of manipulating this one. All she needed to do was get start a simple conversation.

Pausing mid-step in park, Tabitha took a moment to look up and reorient herself with her surroundings. She could make out the place called Sugar Cube Corner in the distance and not too far from her was the clothing shop, Carousel Boutique she thought, that she had visited once to get some clothes. Looking around some more she finally found the path leading out of the town toward her next destination, the quaint cottage of Fluttershy.

“Ready or not…it’s time we had a chat…”

-Canterlot Palace, Mid Afternoon-

Celestia stood in a small room offset from the throne room, her niece Princess Cadance standing next to her and two unicorns while they all looked down at a table filled with papers detailing every little final aspect of the Grand Galloping Gala. Celestia sighed as she looked over the guest list once more while Cadance seemed to be perusing the list of various foods that were going to be served. One of the advisors, a unicorn wearing a green vest and gold rimmed glasses lightly cleared his throat before looking directly at the Princess of the Sun.

“Your Highness, about the music for the evening…”

Celestia let out a small sigh before allowing a soft smile to cross her lips that easily made the advisor give pause to his speech. “Busy Body, I am certain that the Equestrian Ensemble Players are more than capable of handling an event such as this. They have many times in the past and I’m confident that they will sound lovely during the Gala, besides it is far too late now to schedule another group.”

The other unicorn named Paper Weight nodded with a small smile before looking over at Cadance. “My lady, I know you and Princess Celestia will be greeting the guests in the main hall, but what about Princess Luna? Where will she be?”

Cadance looked up from her list and glanced at Celestia before clearing her throat slightly. “As I understand it, Princess Luna will be moving about the Gala with her escort Sir. Hades. She is to be left alone and allowed to do as she wishes for the evening. No matter the concern, no matter how urgent, simply come to one of us and let her have her fun.”

The two aides looked at one another before looking back at the Princesses and giving a small nod of understanding. Celestia quietly stood up extending her wings and popping her neck for a few moments before letting her gaze fall to her advisors once more. “Well, I believe everything is in order for this year’s Gala. It should be a pleasant night for everypony. Now if you would please excuse us, I’d like to have some time alone with my niece.”

Busy Body and Paper Weight both quickly gathered their papers clearing the table of the various lists and charts before bowing and trotting off to finish their work. Celestia watched them leave with a calm eye, not turning away until the door to the throne room shut behind them.

Once the advisors were gone she let out a small sigh of frustration shaking her head before turning to look at Cadance. “I’m glad you’re here to help me with the planning process. The Gala can be so boring and ever since the...incident…my attempts to invite Twilight and her friends back again have been met with more than what I would describe as ‘great concern.’”

Cadance stood up and stretched her wings out for a few seconds before stepping past her aunt and moving into the main throne room. “I don’t mind a bit Aunt Celestia. It is a shame about Twilight and her friends though. After all, the damage caused by Fluttershy and her animals did give us reason to renovate the ball room.”

Celestia giggled softly holding a hoof to her lips as she smiled while following behind her niece. “Yes that was quite…convenient. I am quite glad you were willing to help me though. The advisors, the planners, the chefs…it all can be overwhelming. Normally Luna would be helping me but…well…” She simply smiled and rolled her eyes.

Cadance smiled brightly, a soft laugh escaping her lips. “She’s too busy planning for her big night isn’t she? From the way she’s been trotting around the castle lately you’d think she was a teenager again.”

Celestia snorted and lightly jabbed her niece in the side with her hoof. “Oh no, I had to experience that once, I’ll not go through it again.”

Cadance smirked and raised her eyebrows her curiosity beginning to show. It wasn’t very often that her aunts spoke of their youth so every time they did she made certain to listen as closely as possible. “Oh really now? Just what was she like?”

Rolling her eyes once more Celestia turned away and moved towards a nearby window taking a moment to let her eyes glance over the glistening cityscape that was Canterlot. “Lets just say that she liked what others had and didn’t exactly share well.”

Cadance blinked a moment while her jaw hung open in surprise but then slowly began to laugh and close her eyes in mirth. “W-wait…you mean that Luna would poach colt-friends?”

Celestia turned to face her giggling niece a sly smirk forming on her lips while she leaned in and whispered in Cadance’s ear with a husky whisper. “Well, yes she would sometimes…but she wasn’t the only one with a wild streak…I had my moments as well, and I did say that she didn’t always share well…not that she didn’t share at all.”

Celestia lightly licked her lips as she pulled back from her niece to see that the once giggling Princess of Love now sported a dark blush while her eyes were wide and her jaw was dropped in utter disbelief.

“N-no way Auntie…that doesn’t seem right…I just can’t picture that.”

Celestia simple gave her a warm smile while turning to walk toward the large double doors of the throne room. “That’s normal Cadance but you must remember…we as Alicorns are all but immortal. As such, anypony that would remember our younger years are gone. Also some things that may be considered wrong by the laws of today may have been completely normal to us when we were but fillys. After all where do you think the idea of herding came from?”

Cadance slowly closed her jaw as she took in what her aunt had just said before slowly trotting after her. “I see…so…were you and Luna ever in a herd together?”

Celestia turned her head to look back at her neice, her eyes half lidded in a sultry little stare. “It’s not polite to kiss and tell Cadance.” She then stuck her tongue out and laughed as she used her magic to open up the large double doors before trotting out into the hallways of the castle.

Cadance sighed and quickened her pace to walk beside her aunt shaking her head. “I think you get far too much enjoyment out of making me flustered. I swear one of these days I’m going to hear you suggest that we share Shinning armor one evening.”

“Don’t make suggestions you’re not going to agree to Cadance.” Celestia playfully pushed her niece with her wing as a soft laugh escaped her.

The two made their way through the castle halls politely nodding at the various staff and guards who would bow as they passed until they reached a more private part of the castle, the royal chambers. While there were still guards present, there weren’t as many visible to the naked eye. The princesses had made it quite clear that they value their privacy and while they understand that they are to be protected they didn’t need to be under constant watch.

They moved past an ornate doorway emblazoned with a golden symbol of the sun and began to make their way towards another doorway further down the hall which was also emblazoned with ornate details but it instead had a large silver moon on it. As the two princesses made their way towards it they could hear the soft sounds of somepony humming from within.

Celestia glanced at Cadance as they stood before the door, a soft look coming over her face. She slowly reached out with her hoof and gently opened the doorway allowing it to swing open silently before stepping inside. What greeted the two in the center of the vast room was Princess Luna wearing a beautiful silver and blue gown that seemed to only enhance her features. Moving around her was a Unicorn Taylor humming a soft tune as she moved around the Princess marking places to correct and alter as needed. “Hello Sister, I see you’re still preparing for the Gala. A few last minute changes?”

Luna smiled warmly at the two and nodded slowly as to not get stuck with the various pins sticking into the fabric. “Indeed sister. I want to make certain that I look my best for G-, the Gala, yes the Gala. I don’t want to leave anything to chance.”

Cadance smiled as she moved closer to her younger aunt, her eyes wandering over the amazing design. “It looks wonderful Aunt Luna. The way the silver flows through the dress allowing the darker fabric to accent your eyes…it’s bound to catch the attention of Grevin.”

Luna frowned a bit and cleared her throat doing her best to hide her smile. “I thank you Cadance but I simply wish to look my best.” She then looked down to the Unicorn who appeared to be finished with her current task. “You’re finished aren’t you?”

The unicorn nodded and gave a small curtsey. “Yes M’lady. I’ll have all the alterations done by this evening. “

Luna nodded and quickly shed the dress, shaking her wings a bit as she allowed her self to finally move after nearly an hour of standing still. “Thank you Quick Stitch. I’ll make certain that your payment will be sent to your shop right away.”

Celestia smirked as the tailor quickly trotted out of the room dress in tow. “My my sister, I didn’t think you would be so concerned about your attire for this year’s Gala. You never seemed this concerned about it in the past.”

Luna looked away her cheeks burning slightly red as a sheepish smile came over her lips. “Well…this year is a bit different don’t you think? After all we’ll be having a special guest.”

Celestia leaned forward and placed a soft hoof on Luna’s shoulder, her eyes staring into her sisters. “True enough but please don’t let this…infatuation cause you to lose focus of your duties tonight. You’re going to be representing all of Equestria while out on the dance floor.”

Luna frowned at her sister, a hint of anger flashing in her eyes before she nodded and pulled back slightly. “Do not worry yourself sister. I’ll remember my duty to the throne…but I do intend to enjoy myself as well. Do you honestly think I would allow myself to be seen in a poor light?”

“No sister, of course not. I just am slightly concerned. I’ve only had you back for a short time and I know that there is nobility that still doesn’t trust you fully. As such they are always looking for some reason to attack you and cause your character to be called into question.”

Luna snorted and turned away moving toward her bed, hopping up onto it and laying down resting her head on her hooves. “Bah, those insolent nobles need to find better hobbies than sticking their snouts into our business. I have never taken my duties lightly, the fact that I will be having an escort tonight doesn’t change that fact.”

Cadance smiled and stepped over to her aunt while clearing her throat in an attempt to change the subject. “So…Aunt Luna, are you looking forward to seeing Grevin tonight?”

Luna simple smirked and nodded. “That I am Cadance. To be escorted by a Spectral Knight is no small thing. He is a good and honorable man. I personally enjoy the way he speaks. He doesn’t care about royal station as much as he does about how one behaves towards others. It is rare to speak to someone who talks to us like an average pony and not some immortal royal. I find it refreshing.”

“So I am guessing you’re going to be out dancing all evening then?”

Celestia smirked and flexed her wings out slightly stretching them slightly. “Well, she will for at least a few hours but if she disappears we’ll know she has something else planned.”

Luna blushed heavily before frowning and averting her gaze from her sister. “Tia, it isn’t proper for a lady to reveal her intentions right away.”

Cadance snickered. “True but it is well known that mares like to gossip from time to time.”

A soft knock on the door grabbed all three mares attention. Celestia cleared her throat as she resumed her cheerful but neutral stance and faced the doorway. “Enter.”

A Royal Guardsman stepped in and gave a polite bow before clearing his throat. “Princesses, you wished us to let you know when the train from Ponyville arrived. It has just pulled into the station and Sir. Hades is being escorted to the castle now. Prince Shining Armor is seeing to it personally.”

Celestia rose to her hooves as she moved toward the door. “Very good, thank you Quick Fire. Once he arrives at the castle see that Sir. Hades is escorted directly to his guest quarters. Instruct that housekeeping staff that every request, anything he may need is to be provided for him.”

The stallion gave a quick salute “As you command Princess.” Then he quickly trotted out the door leaving the three princesses alone once again.

Luna quickly rose to her hooves and moved to her dresser looking at her face and eyes, checking herself as quickly as she could. “He will be here soon…how do I look Tia? Are my wings preened properly?”

Cadance giggled as she rose to her hooves and moved towards the door. “Aunt Luna, I’ll go greet Grevin for you. With as much effort your putting into this, you shouldn’t see him till this evening in order to truly stun him.”

Luna glanced over at Cadance and gave her a thankful nod. “I appreciate that Cadance. Thank you.”

Celestia said nothing as her niece trotted out the door, closing it behind her before turning to look at her sister, a soft smile gracing her lips as she began to reminisce about the past. She trotted over to Luna and lifted a brush off of the dresser with her magic before taking a seat beside her sister and began to brush her coat. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so flustered before Lulu.”

Luna sighed as she closed her eyes while leaning back into her sisters brush strokes. “I…I cannot help it Tia. Something about him strikes a chord in me. I feel so calm around him yet giddy at the same time. I feel like a silly little filly with a stupid crush.”

Celestia leaned in and gently nuzzled her sister closing her eyes as well. “It’s alright Luna. It’s clear it’s no crush. Just follow your heart and you’ll be happy.”

Luna turned her head and smiled at the elder Alicorn. “Thank you Celestia, I will.”

-Canterlot Markets-

Grevin grumbled as he shifted his pack over his shoulder, his head ducked down slightly while he walked beside Shining armor. It didn’t bother him that he had to walk out in the open in such a large city even with the escort being given to him by the Prince. No, what bothered him were the not so hushed whispers he could hear from the various ponies that they were moving past.

“Isn’t that the hero of the market?”

“He saved Boulders son…”

“No he did more than that, he defeated a dragon.”

“I wonder if he is infused with magic like Unicorns or if it’s different for him.”

“I hear he was the cause of the attack in the first place.”

“Momma, why does he look so scary? Is that why the Prince is with him? Is he under arrest?”

“I heard he got some poor mare killed in that attack, what a monster.”

“The Prince must be taking him to the castle to question him about something.”

Compounding this was the idle conversation that Shining armor was trying to have with him as they made their way toward the castle.

“So, Cadance told me the other night that Twilight was finally able to convince you to date her. I thought you weren’t going to give her a chance?”

Grevin kept his gaze down not looking at the Prince for a moment before carefully choosing his words. He didn’t wish to upset him especially since all he would need to do is create a shield bubble in the center of his skull and expand it if he became angry enough. “Well…yes, I was trying to keep things that way but…she was persuasive.”

Shining glanced over at the man a small smirk forming on his lips. “She seduced you didn’t she.”

Grevin stumbled at his words, his eyes going wide as he looked over at Shining who was laughing now. “Uh…um…well she…had help.”

Shining laughed before letting out a small sigh and looking down. “It looks like I owe Cadance ten bits.”

“Excuse me?”

“Cadance and I had a bet on you two. “

“And just what were the terms of the bet?” Grevin growled slightly, his scowl growing. He didn’t like it when people made bets about his life.

Shining raised a hoof with a small smile. “Relax. Cadance bet me that Twilight and her friends would eventually pin you down and have their way with you but I bet her that Twilight would do things by herself. From the way it sounds, I lost the bet.”

Grevin had to take a moment to close his dropped jaw before frowning once more and turning to continue his walk towards the castle leaving Shinning Armor a few steps behind him. “Yes, I suppose you did. Tell me something, is it common for ponies to bet on the love lives of their family members?”

Shining sighed as he resumed his place next to Grevin. “Look, I’m sorry but if you must know it was Cadance’s idea. She is the Princess of Love and she has been watching Twilight, her friends and you for a while now.”

“And just why would they do that? I’m really not all that interesting.”

Shining smirked “Perhaps but when she saw Twilight and her friends interacting with you, well it became far more interesting. Twilight is her sister in law, and as such she likes to watch out for her just as I do.”

Grevin glanced over at the stallion who kept his gaze forward, a serious look in his eyes despite the small smirk on his lips. “So…you don’t care about the fact that your sister…?”

Shining looked over at Grevin his eyes narrowing slightly. “It’s her life. It’s your life. It’s none of my business. Just remember though that if you hurt her I’ll hurt you. Treat her right and all will be well.”

“Speaking as one warrior to another, if I do cause her any harm or grief I’ll give you the blade myself.”

“I’m glad we have an understanding…” Shining suddenly took on a look of slight anger, seeming to stare into the man’s very soul his voice dropping into a tone that resonated with rage. “Oh and before I forget, I heard about what you did with my wife…”

Grevin paused mid step and raised a hand as he took a small step back, the tone in Shining’s voice making him slightly nervous. The last thing he wanted to do was get into a fight over a misunderstanding. “Whoa, hold on a moment. I didn’t do anything.”

Shining snorted and moved closer forcing Grevin to move back with each step he took, his horn lowered enough to aim it straight at Grevin’s throat. “Oh really? So you weren’t in a room with her…alone… kissing her?”

Grevin slid his hand behind his back gripping the handle of one of his daggers preparing to defend himself if needed. He took a slow breath and did his best to look Shining in the eyes without impaling his neck on his sharp horn. “Ok, look I’ll admit, a lip lock happened but it wasn’t my idea. She locked me in the room with her, pinned me down with her magic. She said she wanted to help me open up, to see that there was hope for me.”

“And…?”

Grevin sighed and averted his gaze a bit. “She..was right, there was hope for me and I was too stubborn to see it. As for what happened though, I’m sorry. I tried to resist, I really did.”

The next thing he knew, Shining Armor had pulled back and was simply smirking up at the man with a cheesy little grin. “Oh, I know. Don’t feel bad, no one can really resist her when she puts on her charm. Just the other week she was helping a colt confess his feelings for his crush and she nearly caused the poor stallion to have a heart attack.”

Grevin nodded quietly for a few moments in understanding before suddenly snapping his eyes back to look at Shining. “Wait…what?! You mean to tell me she has done this kind of thing before?!”

Shining nodded “Yes of course she has. You sound surprised.”

Grevin let his dagger go and allowed his hands to drop to his sides. “So…you don’t care?”

Shining simply smirked before rising back to his hooves and trotting toward the castle again forcing Grevin to follow behind him. “Of course not. I know why she did what she did. She is the Princess of Love and while she has to do some things which I could see as wrong, I know that she is my wife and her heart belongs to me and mine to her. Anything she does as part of her royal duties is something that I shouldn’t worry about. “

Grevin shook his head as he fell into step behind the prince. “I see…so you were just fucking with me then.”

Shining laughed a bit as he increased his pace. “More or less.”

“You’re not funny, you know that right?”

“It was funny enough seeing you sweat.”

“…I’m growing to not like you…”

-Changeling Hive, The Badlands-

In a small private chamber sat Davick, Discord and Queen Crimson Wing sat in quiet discussion. The room as rather posh when compared to the average room a changeling would be found in. The walls glowed with a soft bioluminescent glow, casting a green hue on everything there. There were several pillows strewn around the room and the three sat around a medium sized, ornate table that was filled with various kinds of food ranging from fresh meat to fruits and vegetables.

Davick sat in his cushioned seat with crossed arms, an apple in his hand that he was slowly chewing a bite out of while staring over at Discord and Crimson who were locked in conversation about how they could easily dismantle Equestria.

Crimson Wing leaned forward, resting a hoof on her chin as she stared at Discord, a simple little smile on her lips allowing her fangs to poke out over her bottom lip slightly. “So tell me Discord. Why do you need me when you have Davick on your side? He appears to be quite strong by himself.”

Discord smiled as he allowed himself to slither into the air from his seat, flipping upside down for a moment before glancing at Davick. “Oh, don’t be mistaken my dear queen. Davick is a formidable fighter but he is still just one person. You of all beings should know that when it comes to taking over a society, an army is required.”

Crimson Wing rolled her hoof around in a slightly exaggerated motion. “Soooo…what’s your point? My changelings were no match for the Royal Guard when they tried to invade under my predecessor’s rule, why should I waste my drones?”

Davick rolled his eyes as Discord chuckled and played his little game. It was clear to the man what the Chaos Lord had planned. It was terribly predictable. He slowly set down his apple and rose to his feet forcing the two to stop their conversation and look at him. “Please tell me you aren’t that stupid.”

Crimson Wing growled as she rose to her hooves her eyes narrowing in anger. “What did you just say to me?”

Davick began to unstrap his gauntlet from his arm allowing the heavy metal plate to fall to the floor with a solid thud before flexing his arm a few times. “If you don’t know what he is getting at, then you’re a fool and unfit to rule this brood. He wants you to take my…essence, use it to create a kind of hybrid creature that can blend into society but then also be incredibly deadly in a fight.”

Crimson Wing growled, her wings fluttering in agitation as she glared up at Davick before looking at Discord. “Is this true?”

Discord raised a clawed hand to his jaw a moment before floating backwards a bit, returning to an upright position. “Well, if I must be honest, yes. I think a hybrid being would be able to truly throw Celestia and her little gang for a loop. So what do you think? Want to play mad scientist and create an abomination?”

Crimson said nothing for a moment allowing her eyes to slowly move up and down Davicks form while he stood stoically still. She turned to look at Discord once more before slowly nodding. “Fine but no tricks. You try to double cross me and I’ll find a way to kill you.”

Discord laughed, clapping his hands together before doing a small spin in mid-air. “Oh excellent, I promise you won’t regret this little partnership of ours.”

Davick cleared his throat forcing them both to look over at him. “Look, as much as I enjoy hatching plots, can we get this over with? I’d like to get some sleep and then get in some training so I can kill Hades when I see him again.”

For a moment Crimson said nothing as a slight blush came to her cheeks and she glared over at Discord. “Fine but I would prefer if we had some privacy. Matters like this don’t require an audience.”

Discord simply laughed a moment before raising his clawed hand. “Fair enough, have fun you two, don’t break anything.” With that he snapped his fingers and disappeared in a bright flash of light leaving the two alone.

Crimson turned to face Davick her eyes becoming half lidded as she gave him a sultry stare. “So…what do you prefer? Mares? Stallions? …foals?”

Davick growled and moved slamming his hand against her muzzle silencing her while at the same time forcing her back until he forced her against the wall. She struggled, flailing her hooves around slapping against his arm, her wings buzzing in fear while she stared at him with wide eyes. He leaned in with narrowed eyes, his anger barely held at bay. “I may be a monster but I won’t fuck a youngling…those who do that are true monsters. As for what we need to do here, as much as I’d enjoy a release I have different ideas.”

He released his grip, stepping back as Crimson fell to the ground in a small heap, gasping for breath a moment before staring up at him with defiant eyes. “F-fine then. What do you have in mind?”

Davick said nothing as he took another step back allowing the queen to stand up on her hooves while he reached back with his right hand and pulled a dagger out from his belt. “All you require is my essence correct? Well, you can get that with my blood.”

Crimson could only stare as he raised the dagger up then quickly brought it down into his forearm piercing his flesh with a sickening squelch. She watched, almost fascinated at the way he slowly pulled the blade back a few inches, slicing a deep wound into his flesh, his blood flowing freely from it, sliding down his arm and dripping to the ground similar to how drops of rain would hit the earth.

Davick simply smirked as he put his dagger away and squeezed his hand a few times allowing his blood to flow that much more quickly. “Surprised? Don’t be, this kind of wound is nothing to the likes of me. Now, gather the blood with your magic before I heal, you will need a good amount.”

Crimson slowly nodded as her horn began to glow a deep red and quickly the blood flowing down Davicks arm and falling to the ground became enveloped in the same glow. Slowly it all began to rise up and gather in a small sphere growing with each passing moment as more and more of the dark blood was gathered. After a few moments of silence Crimson looked up at Davick with curiosity in her eyes. “Just…why must I gather so much? A small amount is enough for what I require.”

Davick smirked as he ran his free hand along his forearm, the wound he had inflicted upon himself closing up almost instantly. “Perhaps, but for what I intend to do, I need more than a few drops.”

Crimson narrowed her gaze “And what is it you intend to do? If you harm my hive, I’ll drop this blood here and take what I need from your innards.”

Davick paused a moment before chuckling darkly. “Oh my naive queen. You have no idea do you?”

“About what?”

“About what Discord plans to do?”

She said nothing for a moment before slowly blinking, breaking off her stare. “Then enlighten me.”

Davick gave her a sickening smile as his hands began to glow a dark red, not to different from her own magic. “It’s quite simple really. Discord is the Lord of Chaos here in Equestria. As such he liked to cause trouble, ruffle feathers and the like. He doesn’t want to kill anyone…it’s not his style. He likes to play games.”

Crimson watched as Davick reached out and began to envelop the sphere of blood in his magical energies. “So what?”

Davick continued to stare at the blood as he focused on his task. “So…this also means that he doesn’t really want to put this army to good use. He’ll talk a big game but then fold like a cheap stack of cards. He’ll have no follow through. As such, he’ll expect the army to stop the moment he wishes it…I have no such intention.”

“So what is it you’re doing then?”

“I am placing a spell deep within the blood, a spell that will allow OUR army to resist Discords influence and magic. He’ll never sense it, never expect it…but when the time is right we’ll be able to seize control and do what we wish. “

Crimson blinked a moment before allowing her face to return to its neutral gaze. “So what makes you think I’ll go along with this plan of yours Davick. Besides didn’t Discord bring you here, won’t he be able to stop you with a snap of his claw?”

He glanced up at her with a small smirk. “Well, for starters, if you don’t I’ll see to it that you have an unfortunate accident…secondly you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Think about it. We break free from the control of that bumbling fool; take over as we see fit. I’ll be able to destroy Hades and everything he loves, and you’ll have free access to the ponies of Equestria to keep your Changelings healthy. As for him being able to stop me; Discord may have brought me here, but he has no idea as to what I’m capable of. He underestimates me fully.”

“And why should I trust you Davick? If you’re betraying Discord, what will keep you from betraying me?”

“I give you my word as an honorable warrior. Discord has no taste for what must be done…but you and I…we’re cut from a different cloth. We’re not afraid to take what we want.”

Crimson said nothing as she allowed her eyes to flick back and forth as she thought about her options while allowing Davick to continue with his enchantment. This was a very nice opportunity for her and her hive. By joining forces, she could have access to all the love she needed…her people would thrive. Davick would have his domination and she would have her people’s safety. She had to admit, he had a point about Discord. He didn’t seem to have a taste for violence, to do what needed to be done. Could she really put her people at risk for that? No…no she couldn’t. She knew what she had to do.

She cleared her throat and looked back up at Davick as he finished his enchantment, his magic fading into the blood without a trace leaving it hovering in her spell. “Alright…I’m with you. “

Davick smiled and reached up brushing his hand over Crimson’s cheek in a tender touch that caused her to blush. “Good girl…now let’s get to work. We have an army to create.”

Crimson blinked a moment at his soft touch before shaking her head and glaring back up at the man who had already turned and was putting his gauntlet back on. “Very well, let’s get to it.”

-Ponyville, Fluttershy’s cottage-

Fluttershy hummed to herself as she went about to the various animals around her property, a bag of animal feet on her back. She had a warm smile of contentment on her face and a bounce in her step as she made her way to the last ones in her list, Mr. and Mrs. Mouse who had just had a small litter. She leaned down and gently lifted the bag from her back, being very careful not to spill it as she poured a few pellets in front of their den at the base of a tree. “Here you go, plenty of food for the happy family. I even made sure to give you a few extra to help you keep your strength up while raising your new babies.”

The mice squeaked and quickly gathered up their food each one waving at Fluttershy before scurrying back into their den. Fluttershy felt a small surge of joy as she stepped back and turned to return the bag of feed to her shed but paused when a singular figure appeared in the distance, making their way towards her home.

She quickly ran back to her cottage to get a better view and just as she arrived on her porch, the figure more discernible now, walking upright, thin…it wasn’t Grevin so it had to be Tabitha.

Tabitha called out to Fluttershy with a friendly tone and gave a friendly wave as she quickened her pace. She had a soft smile on her lips and a small light step in her walk as she crossed the bridge and continued up the dirt path. “Good afternoon Fluttershy, how are you?”

The timid mare gave a small wave while ducking under her mane giving a small squeak. “Um…hello Tabitha…”

The raven haired woman made her way up to the Pegasus and finally rested herself against a railing, crossing her arms pushing her chest up slightly. “I was walking around and I thought I’d pay you a small visit. I hope I’m not imposing.”

Fluttershy quickly shook her head looking up at the woman who was smiling down at her. “N-no, not at all. What can I do for you Tabitha?”

Tabitha lightly crossed her legs and let her gaze move over the cottage and surrounding land. “Well…I was hoping to talk to you about Grevin…”

Fluttershy frowned and let her head drop a bit, a small frown coming over her features. “O-oh…”

“Yes…I was wondering how you felt about him?”

“M-me?”

“Mmhmm. Do you care for him?”

Fluttershy felt her cheeks burn red as she lightly pawed at the ground and mumbled quietly. “Y-yes…”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t quite hear you.”

“U-um…yes I do.”

“I see…but aren’t you afraid?”

Fluttershy blinked a moment giving a slight pause before looking up with wide eyes. “What do you mean? Why would I be afraid?”

“The danger my dear. He is dangerous. “

Fluttershy shook her head, stomping her hoof down. “N-no, he isn’t. He’s kind, gentle…he has shown that more times than I can count.”

Tabitha pushed off from the railing and slowly walked around the shy mare. “Fluttershy, have you ever seen Grevin in true combat? Have you seen him take a life? Have you seen him fight?”

“Well…no…but why would I?”

Tabitha continued to move around her with slow deliberate steps. “Well…to see just how much of a warrior he is. Yes he is nice…kind, but I have seen him in ways you never have. I’ve seen him covered in the blood of his enemies…eyes wild…pure anger flowing through him, ready to strike at anyone who gets too close to him. He can be quite dangerous when provoked.”

“B-but why would that worry me? Grevin would never hurt me, he wouldn’t hurt anypony. “

“I sincerely doubt that. I have heard about how he fought against a dragon, and then there was that fight he had with Davick…from what your friends say, the old Grevin I knew in Bastion made a very small appearance.”

Fluttershy took a small back away from the woman her eyes darting around looking for a place to move too. “A…a small appearance? B…but I was told…” She faded off as he looked down at her hooves.

Tabitha smirked and knelt down placing a soft hand on Fluttershy’s back causing her to flinch slightly. “I know…that he acted unlike anything anyone had seen before. He was brutal, showed no remorse…Believe me when I say that, that was only the tip of the ice berg.”

Fluttershy turned her head quickly to stare at Tabitha, their eyes locking for a few moments. “Why are you telling me this?”

Tabitha’s face shifted into one of worry as she lightly ran her fingers through the mares mane. “I worry for you…for your friends. I know what Grevin is capable of…after all he and I were an item at one point. I see how kind you and your friends are…the way that you all treat him…the way you trust him. What if he were to snap? What if he lost control one day?”

Fluttershy shook her head pulling back from Tabitha. “N-no. He wouldn’t, he’d never hurt any of us…”

Tabitha sighed as she shifted back slightly letting her hands rest on her knees. “What if you’re wrong? What if you’re spending a nice evening with him sometime and he snaps…loses control and attacks you? What would you do?”

Fluttershy felt her eyes begin to water as she tucked herself further under her mane. “I…I…”

“He has had night terrors back when we were in Bastion…we had to keep his weapons from him while he slept in case he tried to attack someone during an episode. He has lashed out before…it wasn’t pretty. I’ve seen him take apart armed combatants…deadly assassins in seconds…how long would you ponies last against him? He could kill you…kill your animals…and nothing could stop him, nothing. It’s a very real threat.”

Tabitha slowly rose back up on her feet with a small sigh allowing her hands to lightly run over Fluttershy’s mane. “Please don’t think poorly of me Fluttershy, I’m not trying undermine your feelings…I just worry for all of you. You’ve all been kind to me and I don’t want you to be hurt. Grevin is a deep person, however, just like a river, the surface may look calm but terribly strong currents run below the surface. He can keep a calm exterior even as the most turbulent of emotions are running through him; he’s been trained to do it. Perhaps you should talk to your friends about this…see what they think. It would be best to make certain you all are safe before things go too far.”

Fluttershy said nothing as tears fell from her eyes, her form trembling as she whimpered quietly. Tabitha simply sighed and began to walk down the dirt path back to Ponyville. “Please…do be careful Fluttershy. Have a good evening.” A sadistic smirk came over Tabitha’s face, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction as she turned her back to the shivering mare and made her way back towards Sweet Apple Acres.

Unseen to her though, Chrysalis sat watching her from behind a tree and some bushes in the form of some random mare, her eyes narrowed at Tabitha who had a smug look on her face. Chrysalis could feel her blood burn as she watched her go her gaze moving to the cottage in the distance, the soft cries of Fluttershy reaching her ears.

She glanced around herself a moment before changing forms once again, enveloping herself in the magical fire for a moment taking on the form of Emerald once more. She quickly moved to the dirt path and trotted towards Fluttershy’s home, her anger growing as well as her concern. Grevin had been right about watching her, and it was clear she was going to take advantage of his absence. The only questions she had now were; what did she say to Fluttershy, and secondly, is she herself ready to speak to the one of the elements by herself? Needless to say, it was going to get interesting.

Fluttershy sniffled as she wiped her hoof over her eyes trying to calm herself down. Surely she and her friends hadn’t over estimated Grevin…had they? Yes he had a violent past but he was kind now…tried to not fight…mostly. She had heard about how he had attacked those lizard creatures in Canterlot but that was to defend innocent foals…and his fight with Davick in the ruins…that was him trying to save her friends. Yes Twilight had said that he had changed in the moment but when she saw him next, he was back to being the Grevin she had grown to love…but…what if it happened again…what if he tried to hurt her…or the animals…

“Fluttershy! Fluttershy are you alright?”

Fluttershy snapped up with wide eyes to see Emerald galloping up to her. She sniffed and did her best to put on a brave face as she gave a faltering smile to her newest friend. “O-oh hello Emerald…w-what can I help you with?”

Emerald stopped just short of the cream Pegasus a look of concern in her eyes. “Me? I’m here to help you. I saw Tabitha walking away from here and I heard you crying. Is everything alright? Are you ok? Can I help you?”

She gave a small smile of gratitude and shook her head. “O-oh…no, I’m alright…”

Emerald narrowed her eyes and frowned leaning in slightly. “Don’t lie to me Flutters. Whats going on…what did she say to you?”

Fluttershy kept her eyes down and slightly shook her head using her mane to keep her eyes hidden. “N…nothing…”

Chrysalis mentally rolled her eyes. If she were in this situation back in the hive she simply would have barked at the drone to spill the information but these ponies were so sensitive…this one especially. She had to be delicate…she did give her word that she would watch out for them and as much as she hated to admit it, she didn’t want to let Grevin down.

Chrysalis reached out and gently placed a hoof of Fluttershy’s shoulder rubbing it lightly while trying to give her a look of encouragement and caring. “Fluttershy…Grevin asked me personally to watch out for all of you. He trusts me to help you all when I can and if you’re upset then I want to help. Please…tell me what’s wrong.”

Fluttershy gave a small sniff and looked into Emeralds eyes for a few moments before giving a small nod. “Well…alright. Tabitha was telling me about how Grevin used to be…about how he used to be a fighter. She talked about how he was merciless, driven by combat…and she said that he could snap back to that at any point. She said that if he were to go back to the way he was, none of us could stop him…that we all were at risk.”

Chrysalis mentally cursed Tabitha for what she was doing. That woman was trying to trick Grevin’s mares into fearing him, seeing him as a monster. She had to do something to correct it. She quickly shook her head allowing a soft smile to come to her lips. “Fluttershy, what Tabitha probably remembers is something from long ago. The Grevin we know would never attack us. He may fight like a monster but he does so in defense of those he cares about, not against.”

Fluttershy smiled softly and gave a small nod. “He…he did fight to save those fillies from that Davick person…and he did try to save everypony in Canterlot…”

Chrysalis nodded. “Yes. He has never lashed out at anyone here has he?”

“N-no….no…he hasn’t.”

“Exactly.”

“But…w-what if he goes back? What if he turns back into his old self?”

Chrysalis frowned and shook her head once again. “Stop that, you know Grevin wouldn’t. He fears hurting those he cares for so much that I think he would sooner harm himself than another.”

Fluttershy sat silent for a few moments before taking in a slow breath and letting out a quiet sigh. “You’re right. I’m sorry…I let my nervousness get the better of me. Thank you.”

Chrysalis couldn’t help but feel a small hint of pride as she heard the shy mare’s relaxed voice. She had done it…she had actually been able to help one of the element bearers and kept her promise to Grevin. “No reason to thank me. I just helped you keep things in perspective that’s all.”

Fluttershy shook her head letting her mane flip away from her bright smiling eyes before standing up. “Still, it was very kind of you to do that. You went out of your way to make sure I was ok. Grevin is lucky to have you as a friend.”

Chrysalis could only blink before feeling her cheeks flare in embarrassment and she looked down at her hooves idly playing with them. “Oh, well, I’m just trying to keep a promise that’s all.”

“Thank you for doing it. I’ll tell Grevin that you kept your word. He’ll appreciate that you were honest about helping him.”

This struck a chord in Chrysalis that made her pause while Fluttershy continued to talk. Honest…honesty…being honest…a simple word. Yet it held great power behind it. The same kind of power was behind words such as respect or integrity.

Chrysalis quickly pushed her thoughts aside as she rose up on her hooves and turned to head back towards her small hideaway in Ponyville.

“Emerald, are you leaving so soon?”

She looked back at the smiling Pegasus with a small hint of surprise in her eyes. “Well…yes, I didn’t want to take up too much of your time. I’m sure you have things to do.”

Fluttershy simply smiled and opened the door to her cottage. “What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t invite you in for some tea. My animal friends have shown me where the best tea leaves grow and it just tastes wonderful…would you care for a cup before you go?”

Chrysalis blinked for a few seconds before a warm smile came to her lips. She slowly turned around and nodded. “A cup of tea sounds wonderful. Thank you.”

Fluttershy simply nodded and began to hum a soft tune as she led the way into her home. Chrysalis followed close behind but her thoughts were occupied elsewhere. She kept thinking about that word…honesty. She had lived most her life portraying some form of a lie. It was in her nature to do so. She did it to survive…she was even doing it now and yet, she felt wrong. It didn’t feel right to hide herself anymore…like she was wearing an uncomfortable piece of clothing.

Chrysalis sat down on the soft cushions of Fluttershy’s couch, watching her head into the kitchen to prepare the tea. It was in that moment as she looked around at the small bird houses and quaint décor of this humble home that she knew what she wanted. She wanted to be rid of it…to be rid of the lies. She wanted a clean conscious. She didn’t want to fear for the safety of her hive nor the safety of herself.

Perhaps it was time for her to shed this second skin of hers. Perhaps she simply needed a friend to open up too…to help her take the first step. She knew at the moment that when Grevin returned she would show him. She would reveal herself to her friend and pray that he would accept her…that he would still be her friend. After all, if he could…then anypony could.

-Canterlot Castle-

Grevin felt great discomfort as he followed a maid through the large, ornately decorated hallways of the castle, his belonging being carried on her back with ease. Shining Armor had left him at the entrance to the castle but not before asking one of the maids to escort him to his quarters. The light blue colored mare with a golden mane, Feather Duster, if he had heard correctly was quite quick to pick up his pack and garment bag before giving him a large smile and motioning for him to follow her.

For the most part, the castle seemed to be the same as he remembered it from his last visit but there were a few new touches here and there that made it appear even more grand, clearly placed there for the Gala. Beautiful, and clearly enchanted tapestries hung from the walls, some depicting ancient battles, others ceremonies, and some even seemed to shimmer with some kind of energy. There were large vases filled with the most beautiful and sweetest smelling flowers he had ever seen…it was all very grand, and it made him uncomfortable.

This was something he wasn’t quite expecting. Yes he had been to some banquets back in Bastion but nothing as elaborate as this…well that wasn’t one hundred percent true. He had done a few assassinations at some truly amazing parties…but that was different.

As he continued to follow the maid he could hear even more work being done, the various butlers and maids scrambling to make certain everything was just right…truly they were earning their pay that day. He would do his best to thank every single one he met…they deserved that at least. As they made their way through the halls he couldn’t help but notice that they passed the stairwell for the guest quarters that he had stayed at before but before he could say anything the mare in front of him turned her head giving him a small smile. “So…if I may ask, are you the one called Sir Hades…the Hero of Canterlot?”

Grevin let out a small sigh as he reached up and pinched the bridge of his nose. He hated that…he wasn’t some mythical hero and he didn’t like being seen as such. “No…well, yes and no. Yes my title is Sir. Hades, but I’m no hero. I’m just a fighter.”

Feather Duster simply smiled and shook her head. “That’s not what Princess Celestia said. She told us that you were a brave knight who came to Equestria to help keep the Elements of Harmony, the ponies who represent them and the ponies living here safe. She called you a hero.”

This surprised Grevin. He honestly wasn’t expecting Celestia to be so adamant about him. He expected her to not be terribly fond of him after he nearly told her off back in his last visit however, he could have easily misjudged her. He would have to thank her when he next saw her but for now he needed to keep the maid from her hero worship. “Feather Duster…I’m no big hero, just a simple man. Please treat me as such.”

She gave him a bright smile and nodded as she led him up another set of ornate stairs. “Very well Sir Hades. I intend to give you the same level of respect that I would any other guest at the castle. Now if you’ll please follow me, your room isn’t too far ahead.”

He nodded and quickened his pace noticing that one of the rooms he passed had a large golden sun emblazoned on their double doors and another had a silver moon. This wasn’t right…these…these were Royal rooms…he didn’t belong here. “Wait…Feather Duster…where are we going?”

She rolled her eyes as she continued down the hallway. “To your guest room of course.”

“But these other rooms…their…”

The mare let out a small sigh. “As a royal knight of Equestria, you’re entitled to have more…adequate accommodations. This was an order from Princess Luna.”

“I see…I’ll have to speak with her…”

Feather Duster stopped in front of a door that had a large symbol of the two sisters raising and lowering the sun and moon respectively, the detail of the woodwork was something that seemed impossible to Grevin. “Here we are Sir Hades. Your quarters.”

Grevin quickly reached down and lifted his pack and garment bag from her back and reached for the door, eager to get himself settled away from the bustle of the castle. “Thank you Feather Duster. If I need anything I’ll be certain to find a maid or butler and ask for it.”

She gave a small curtsey before trotting away. “Very well Sir Hades. I hope you have a wonderful evening tonight.”

“Thank you.”

Grevin turned after watching her trot off, a small sigh of relief escaping him as he opened the door to his room. The door swung wide without a sound and what was revealed to Grevin was something he could never have imagined. The room was bright with large window opening up to a balcony, the floors a beautiful white marble. The doors opened into what appeared to be a large living area which had some couches and chairs and a large fireplace. They then led into what he guessed to be the bedroom and bath. He set his belongings down and shut the door behind him, taking time to take it all in. The room smelt of fresh linen and flowers but it wasn’t overpowering and it just felt comfortable there.

He made his way around a corner and found another door partially opened which led into what he guessed was the master bedroom. He slowly stepped forward, opening the door fully as he did so and what he saw truly surprised him. The master bedroom was as large as the living room but it held a large couch, vanity, ornate wardrobe and a large four post bed that was covered with beautiful bedding and pillows that looked to be as soft as the clouds themselves. However, what was most surprise to Grevin was what was sitting on his bed.

There in his room, laying on his bed was Cadance who laid near the beds edge with her hooves crossed and a small smile on her lips. She said nothing as she watched Grevin slowly enter the room, ruffling her wings slightly as she locked eyes with the surprised man.

Grevin swallowed the small lump in his throat as he took a few more steps into the room keeping his distance from the princess of love, his suspicion growing. “Princess Cadance…I wasn’t expecting to see you. To what do I owe the honor?”

She nodded as she continued to smile at him before lightly patting the bed cushion next to her. “Hello Grevin, please come on in, I was hoping to see you for a little bit. Care to have a seat?”

Grevin froze mid step a frown coming to his lips as he carefully watched her, the small conversation he had with Shining Armor still fresh in his mind. He said nothing as he stared at her face, her smile unwavering, her wide eyes staring up at him with a hint of mirth. He didn’t like this…not a bit.

Author's Notes:

Authors notes:

Hey guys. I’m sorry it’s taken so long for me to get anything posted but rest assured I am writing and I’m finding that the more I push myself to write, the easier it is becoming, at least most recently it is.

I’m trying to get everything ramped up for the end of the story, though it’s still going to be a bit getting there and I’m really trying to take suggestions and comments to heart. I am hoping to avoid using certain items as crutches and with any luck I’ll get this story to stand on its own.

As always I appreciate comments and want to thank you for taking time to read my work. I hope you continue to enjoy it. Thanks again and Brony on. /)*(\
-Grev