Those two mares affected me more than I thought as it took a little while to get my blood all back in its proper regions. Used my fire ability to dry myself, then it was back to the dining room to see what Tia wanted to do this morning. More than likely it was court again.

A few minutes later, I was standing in the hallway before the dining room door unsure if I wanted to go in or not. Part of me wanted to run in, but the other part of me wanted to save myself from blood loss. After a determined look, and a deep breath later, I opened the door and stepped inside.

Immediately both of them looked over at me, grinned, and winked at me. Balls, just what have I gotten myself into? “Well, this certainly has been an interesting morning so far,” I said with as much confidence and determination as I could while walking up to the table and taking a seat. Celestia was at the head of the table with Luna and I sitting across from each other.

“And an interesting and fun night,” Luna added with a smile and a giggle. “I enjoyed our night together Emmit and look forward to others.”

“I enjoyed it as well.”

“However,” Celestia spoke up with a tone of voice that told me things were about to get serious. “There is something that I want to speak about.”

“That is?” I asked.

She put the paper down and folded it neatly on the table, “These disappearances are just like the Ponyville incident.”

“Tia?” Luna cautiously asked, “You’re not going to ask what you think you are...are you?”

Celestia nodded solemnly, “I’m afraid so,” then looked to be with a worried and sorrowful expression. “Emmit, I hate to ask this of you, but you are the only one that has experience with these ponies.”

I sighed already knowing what she was going to ask me and with a look to Luna told me that she did too. “Which city?”

“Emmit, Tia no,” Luna protested and stood up from the table, “Emmit barely survived the last time he fought a shadow pony.”

“I know,” Tia looked to her sister, “But he’s the only one that can.”

“Ladies,” I interrupted them causing them to gaze at me. “There are two abilities that you haven’t seen yet.” Caution was called for here as what was about to be said, “I have two abilities that I can use against these shadow ponies that will make it easier for me to not only defeat them but interrogate them as well.”

They looked to each other for a second a little confused.

“One is the ability to create an illusion around whomever I choose,” I explained, “While the other is the ability to control a mind itself.”

Both of them were shocked by this as their eyes were wider than old Buick hubcaps. “You mean you can control a pony’s mind?”

“Yes, Tia,” confirming with a nod to her, “I can, so with those two in conjunction against one pony I can create the illusion of anything and have said pony believing it.”

“Why didn’t you tell us this before?” Luna whispered in asking. Her eyes were slightly widened, looking at me with a worried look on her face.

“Fear of what you ponies might think of me,” with a sigh I continued, “Even now, by the look in your eyes, I already know the question you want to ask. And that is no. No, I haven’t used it on anyone or any pony. However, I should be able to use it on the shadow pony to get some answers.”

“We believe you, Emmit,” Celestia told me with a smile also to reassure Luna, which made me feel better. “I’d like to send you to Manehattan to investigate whether there’s a shadow pony there. And if there is to find out all that you can.”

When I didn’t say anything right off, Luna came around to me, “Emmit, you don’t have to do this.” The worried look in her eyes was for me this time, not that I might have done something to her.

I used a few tails to pull her against me for a hug and whispered, “My Luna, she’s right in that I’m the only one that can readily deal with these shadow ponies. There is a shadow organization at work. That much is obvious and it needs to be identified and stopped at all costs.”

She hugged back with a wing pressing her head against mine, “What if you get hurt again or worse?”

“There’s always that chance yes, however you know I need to try to stop them,” I whispered to her.

She sniffed, but nodded slowly, “I know, I know.” Then pulled back to look into my eyes, “Just be careful ok? And come back to us alright?”

“Alright I will,” kissed her softly, “I promise.” Walking up to the head of the table I did the same to Celestia, “I promise.”

“You better,” she smirked slightly but held concern in her eyes. “I’ve already notified the train station to take you to Manehattan in the royal car. Also sent a letter to the Manehattan authorities letting them know you are there, for what reason, and that it’s a royal mission. You will have their full cooperation.”

I looked between them with a nod, “Good. Well then since I’ve already had breakfast I’ll be on my way to the train station then.” A tail trailed up Luna’s back when I walked past her. She didn’t move but held her eyes onto mine. They held worry and concern, but also a stern message.

Return.

^_^

“Manehattan,” came the conductor’s call to me after he stuck his head inside the royal car.

Putting my paper down I nodded to him, “Thank you.” The train was just beginning to pull into the station when I got up to look out the window. The building we were pulling into looked like a smaller version of grand central back home. While walking off the car and into the station proper my mind went back to the quick, and tearful, meeting with Spitfire. I had just enough time to visit her and give her the bad news, before boarding the train. Needless to say, she didn’t like that I was leaving, but she couldn’t blame Luna either. The news about my leaving spread quickly, so on my way out all the Wonderbolt mares was lined up behind me crying and waving as I left. Some wailing, some begging me to come back, and some just sitting there looking sorry for themselves. It almost made me want to stay.

Almost.

However, there was possibly another shadow pony to catch, so here I was in my best effort to do just that. I was determined to get some answers this time. The looks that I was getting while making my way through the station proper didn’t surprise me. Mostly was looks of fear and or surprise with one or two of curiosity. Every one of them parted like the Red Sea for me as I walked across the polished stone floor of the building. One stop I had to make was the information booth to get directions to the police station.

Naturally, the information booth was in the middle of the whole floor, which made me stand out like a sore thumb. There was a young looking mare that looked, to me, in her late teens. And the look on her face told me that she really didn’t want to be there. However, as I walked up she was also looking down at something, so she didn’t see me right off. As my shadow passed over the book she was reading, she spoke to me in the slowest whiny voice I’ve ever heard.

“Can I help you?” her voice dragged on with her whining. Sounding like a child having a slow temper tantrum. And without ever looking up from the book too.

“Yes, Princess Celestia told me that you are the best pony to give me whining lessons,” my voice was the most serious as I knew how to make it. I also smiled really big making my sharp teeth stand out. This was going to be hilarious.

“That’s-” she whined again slowly while lifting her head. Then she spotted me. Her eyes went wide threatening to pop out of their sockets. And you know for a pony that whines too much she sure knows how to move. That chair shot out from under her, she screamed to high heaven and scrambled underneath her desk faster than I thought physically possible.

I had to hold onto the counter with my front paws to keep me standing because I was laughing soo hard. That was soo good. Looking over the counter again showed a light green hoof popping up and tapping her desk, searching for something. Her hoof tapped back and forth across the top of the desk.

She must be looking for that red button.

“More to the left honey,” I laughed a little when I said it.

Her hoof moved in the other direction.

“No no, your other left your other left.”

Her hoof moved in the other direction until she finally found it, pressed it, then retreated back under the desk again. The button was an alarm as red lights lit up all around with a loud siren going off.

Well, this is just getting better and better.

Ponies scattered everywhere when the alarm went off. Meanwhile, I just sat there and waited. At least I won’t have to ask for directions to the police station. I was expecting some time of police or at least security. What I didn’t expect was the perfect pony version of the Keystone Cops.

Seriously?

A large wagon pulled up, painted bright blue with a star on the side, with ponies dressed up in a bright blue uniform and a bright blue helmet. And each one had a police baton in either hoof, wing, or magic. Each one shouting at me and swinging the baton like a mad pony.

Oh good god. Did I walk into a city or a nut house?

With a long sigh, I put up my shield as it glowed a bright orange around me as they approached. Of course, all their shouting ran together so no pony could understand what they were saying, but sounding like one long roar of nonsense. The pounding on my shield didn’t do anything to me, except probably make them feel better. However, if I played along then there’s a good chance of winding up at the police station. So, I started walking to the large wagon.

Of course, the whole time I was walking toward the wagon they continued to surround me, bash my shield and shout at me. Luckily there were some places through the mass of ponies that I could tell where to go. Once the wagon was reached two of them opened the big double wooden doors, I shrunk my shield down to fit my body, then stepped in.

Then dead silence.

No kidding. They piled in, closed the doors, sat down, and stared at me in dead silence. The only sound was the wagon wheels against the cobblestone streets and their breathing. These aren’t cops, these are clowns for everypony to laugh at.

And when we arrived at the police station the silliness continued when they opened the doors. After stepping out they continued their shouting and hitting barrage. The big double doors were wide enough for all of us as we stepped inside. After taking a second, or two, to take in the sights it was obvious where the chief’s office was, off to my left.

To my surprise, the Keystone Cops stopped everything and just stood there once I reached the door. Once inside his office, I met with another surprise.

Oh, good grief. It took everything I had not to put a paw to my face and roll my eyes at him.

This stallion was doing his best impression of Jabba the Hutt. I’m sure he used to be an intimidating sight back in the day because he used to be built like Big Mac. Obviously, he let all that go and was now laying on a couch behind a desk. His office looked like every other office in a private eye movie. Could he even walk anymore? Seriously?

“The princesses told you about my visit and royal mission?” I asked although it was a redundant question.

All he did was nod shoving over a folder to me across the desk with his magic. After opening it up, there were all the places that foals had been taken from marked on the map. Parks mostly for obvious reasons. A couple seemed to be around theaters.

“Alright I have what I need to start searching,” then I glared at him, “And tell your minions out there to stay out of my way or suffer the wrath of the princesses.” I think he paled, but one couldn’t tell with his light coat and stoic expression. Another surprise came when I turned around to find all the cops gone. So, I left.

^_^

About almost an hour later I was perched at the top of the tallest tree in a park that was similar to Central Park in New York. The tree is situated in the middle of the park and high enough, so I could watch and monitor the surrounding area. It was late morning and the cool air blowing through the trees. Parents with foals walking around, or sitting around, either playing or talking and just enjoying the cool morning air. It was surprisingly peaceful for a town that has the Keystone Cops for a police force and Jabba the Hutt as the Chief of Police. With that setup, one would think that this city would be in chaos.

But where is that shadow pony? Unfortunately, it wouldn’t be easy because I had no clue what he or she looked like. Neither could I see, or detect, the shadows they are using. Therefore, the only way I could find him or her would be to catch them in the act.

After sitting in the tree for a few hours and not seeing anything it was time to move to a different area. The only real way to find this shadow pony was to watch every adult and see if he or she keeps coming in and going out of the park multiple times with multiple ponies.

Staying out of sight was the best option right now, so using my abilities to jump from rooftop to rooftop was easy. Especially after the power up I received. I had no clue if word of my battle with the first shadow pony had reached the one I was hunting now. Thus why I kept to the rooftops. The next park I was headed to was on the east side of town. It was late afternoon when I arrived and found a suitable high tree to perch in and watch the park.

This one was smaller than Central Park and filled with fewer trees. Luckily for me, the tree I was in was in the center of the park. There weren’t that many ponies here yet, so there wasn’t anything to do but wait and see.

^-^

After keeping watch over the park even after sunset and well into the night, nothing happened. The shadow pony must be hiding out somewhere until the heat dies down. Plus my stomach was rumbling and I needed something to eat. The question was where? The only places that are open are probably small grill and bar places. But hey, if it’s food I’ll take it.

With that in mind, I started my search for a place around the park. Lights were seen coming from a window down the street from the park. It was a business and looked like an all-night café. The pier was close by so maybe it hosted the late night dock workers?

Once on the café’s roof, I walked around to listen and to look around first. A smallish place with the main street in front of an alley on each side. It seemed like the typical Manehattan late night eatery. And by the smell of it, it was serving oriental style dishes. Now that would be interesting to taste. The streets were empty so it was safe to jump down and walk inside.

Even though the lights were on there wasn’t any pony around. The interior was decorated like I would find in a Chinese or Japanese restaurant at home. Though with a pony version of Buddha, which was…different. The lights were magical lights with a large paper sphere surrounding it. Wooden fancy tables and chairs were neatly situated around the room. A small bar and kitchen off to the left while on the right was a waterfall that was part of the wall. Instead of paint or wallpaper was small stones with water seeping between them running down into a long shallow pool. All in all, it was a very peaceful place.

With my head looking to the right I didn’t see the pony that appeared on my left until moving my head.

“Aah,” after a quick shout I dashed a couple of feet away after getting startled. “Dadgummit, don’t do that,” chuckling I took a second to catch my breath.

He bowed his head.

“I see that you are open. I was wondering if I could get something to eat?" My stomach growled again to further illustrate my desire. I smiled and waited.

The stallion wore an oriental type of uniform found in other similar restaurants back home. With short cut hair, he had a light brown coat with blond hair and mane. The unicorn bowed again then motioned a hoof toward the nearest table.

“Thank you so much,” I offered before sitting down at the table, “Water to drink please.”

He bowed once more, set down a menu, then turned to go get a drink. While looking at the menu I was surprised to find some dishes with meat in it. Really? My mouth was nearly watering at the prospect of tasting some sweet and sour chicken with rice and egg rolls again. When the stallion came back with the water I questioned him regarding the meat on the menu. “Thank you. I’m curious though, I didn’t expect to find meat dishes on the menu being in Equestria and all. I’m not complaining any, I’m an omnivore. I’ve had this very dish back home in my own world, so why does this establishment serve it?”

He bowed with a smile, “Gryphons and Hippogriffs trade at pier. Come often rate at night. Break time for dock workers soon come, arso ask for some meat dishes.” When he spoke he also had a thick oriental accent with the typical trouble with the L’s that always sounded like R’s.

I raised a pleased eyebrow, “Really? Wow, you must get a lot of business then.”

He smiled again with a slow nod.

“I have a question,” I continued after folding up the menu, “I’ve been sent by the princesses to investigate the recent rash of foal nappings. Have you seen anything suspicious around town? A suspicious pony?”

The stallion just shook his head then bowed, “Sorry, I have no information. Your meal wirr be ready soon.”

“Thank you for your time,” I thanked him with a nod as he turned to head back to the kitchen. Meanwhile, that left me to my thoughts. Shadow ponies, relationship with the princesses’ mother and the princesses themselves, and they don’t know that I’ve seen the My Little Pony series. Some things I hope they never find out. Then a thought hit me. I wonder if their mother knows that I’ve seen the series?

My thoughts were interrupted as the kitchen door swung open with my meal on the way. It was the same stallion as before, but with him was a filly. She was cute as a button with her off-white coat and blond mane and tail. About the same age as the Crusaders as well. She was carrying my drink while he was carrying the tray. It brought a big smile to my face at the sight. The stallion looked so proud, though he tried to hide it.

“Your drink sir,” she said in the most waitress way she could while levitating my drink onto the table. She didn’t have the accent that her father did. Must have been raised here. Her father didn’t say anything but levitated my plate onto the table with a bow.

“Why thank you so much miss…”

“Kubota sir,” she replied happily.

Her youthful optimism was a little contagious. “Thank you so much, Miss Kubota,” replying with a smile and a nod, “I hope you have a wonderful morning.” Her father bowed to me as I bowed my head to him, and they turned around back to the kitchen. Pretty filly. She has an innocence to her that anypony would want to protect. However, right now it was time to dig in. And believe you me, I enjoyed finally having some meat again. I took my time and savored each bite. It was better than back home because of the lack of pollution and chemicals. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Man, the food in this world is better than home.

But as they say, all good things must come to an end. The stallion returned when I was done with me informing him to bill the royal treasury. So, with my belly well satisfied I decided to walk toward the west side of town to another park. Because it was so early I didn’t bother with trying to hide with almost no pony out this late.

It was about an hour, or so, later that I spotted the flyer for the Midsummer Theater Revival. The flyer was on a business store wall on the side street I was walking on. It looked exactly like it did in the show. That told me AJ and Rarity would be here and that they might arrive on the train this very morning.

While walking toward the train station I wondered if the shadow pony would try and take some foals from the play? It would be close to nighttime so he or she could possibly take some. It was a play for foals after all, though not exclusively so.

When the train station came into sight I chuckled at the thought of seeing the poor mare again that was sitting at the information booth. And now that the local police know to leave me alone I was debating at having some fun this go around. Sneak up behind her and sniff up her back maybe? With a chuckle, I walked through the doors into the darkened station.

Unfortunately, the mare wasn’t at the help desk. In fact, the place was completely empty. It was still way early in the morning, so with time to spare, I decided to wait it out. There was some space up near the ceiling in the rafters for me and with a few parkour, and dash, skills I was laying quietly on one of them.

I must have dozed off because the sound of voices and hoof beats woke me up. By the look of the large crowd down below me, it was morning rush hour. AJ and Rarity should be here soon. Plus, the mare from yesterday was back behind the counter. Time for a little fun. From my position, I was already behind the mare, so I used some parkour skills to land in the shadows on the floor. I wasn’t even seen by the other ponies yet, which was a little surprising. Then again they were probably more focused on getting where they wanted to be.

With my target in sight, I stepped out of the shadows. In order to keep the other ponies from reacting to my presence, I just walked like there was someplace I had to be. Hopefully with them believing that I belong there. It worked. I was able to walk right up behind the mare.

In one fluid motion, I put my nose against the base of her spine and took one long slow sniff right up her back. Her body started out stiff at the sudden touch, then her small squeak began to get louder and louder. By the time my nose got to her neck, she was hovering slightly off the ground, nearly screaming and vibrating.

I was trying not to laugh because I wasn’t done yet. When she whirled around, with clear intent to rip me a new one, I grabbed her head with my front paws and gave her a big passionate kiss. The idea was to break the kiss, stand back, and laugh at her reaction. There was just one problem.

She turned the tables on me by jumping me and deepening the kiss. She was now on top of me with her tongue seeking entrance and moaning. Meanwhile, the rest of the morning commuters were not only looking on but cheering her on. My mind was thrown for a loop at her unexpected action. But that wasn’t the only thing that surprised me.

“My goodness Emmit,” came Rarity’s voice through the cheering of the crowd.

Breaking the kiss and holding the mare’s head over mine I turned to see Rarity and AJ standing there. Each had this look of shock on their faces at me. Meanwhile, the mare I was kissing was looking down at me with a bedroom look that spoke of many hours of passion. “Umm,” I hesitantly started saying with an embarrassed and sheepish expression, “Would you believe this is a prank gone wrong?”

Rarity gave me a look that all men know well. The Look. Her eyes narrowed, her lips went into a fine line, and AJ was mirroring that look perfectly. Without saying a word Rarity lifted the mare off of me, positioned her back behind the desk, then lifted me off the floor. “We are going to have a talk Emmit Knight,” she said as whispers of “full name” and “he’s in trouble” went around through the crowd.

Dammit. I hung there limply in her magic as she floated me toward a private room off to the side. With AJ staring at me unpleasantly as we walked through the door with Rarity locking it behind us.

Once inside she kept me within her magic and brought me right up to her face.

And just stared at me.

“I didn’t expect her to kiss back,” my voice came out rather lamely, plus I couldn’t keep eye contact with them, “You see she was shocked to see me yesterday, she hit a panic button, sent me to the police headquarters, which got worked out. So, I’d figure I’d have fun with her this morning.”

Their eyes narrowed at me.

“Not that kind of fun,” I said defensively, “I sniffed up her back making her nearly scream, which was funny to see. Then I’d figure I’d give her a quick kiss to shock her and keep her from hitting that button again. I just didn’t expect her to kiss back.”

“Why are you here sugarcube?”

“More foalnappings,” I told them as Rarity freed me from her magical grasp.

THUD

“Ow.”

“How many?” Rarity asked while I stood up again.

“A good few were taken so far and all around parks or where foals like to play or gather. While on my way to one of the parks I saw a flyer for a local play that’s being set up by a Coco Pommel that I’d figure I’d check out in a couple of days.” Of course, I knew that they knew her, so I’d figure it wouldn’t do any harm of steering them in her direction. Not to mention being able to meet her in person. I saw the recognition in their eyes when I said her name.

“Really now?” AJ spoke up happily.

“Know her?” I asked, though already knowing the answer.

“Oh yes,” Rarity smiled pleasantly, “It was about a year or so ago now that we all were here for a fashion contest that I was in.” Rarity walked toward the door as AJ and I followed. “Coco then was an assistant to another mare that I knew. I let that mare borrow a swath and you know what she did?”

I shook my head feigning ignorance as we walked out of the train station and onto the sidewalk.

“That no good mare took that swath and copied my whole line. I thought I was ruined for sure.” Rarity stopped only for a second to put her hoof to her forehead to express her point before walking on, “However, my good friends were with me and helped me create a new one overnight. I felt so bad for treating them the way I did.”

AJ just smiled and hugged Rarity.

“So,” Rarity continued, “because of this they all missed the showing we also came for. So, I convinced them to have a private showing just for them. That had Coco rethinking things and quit with that mare. Everything worked out, so I’m anxious to see what she’s done for herself after all this time.” As we were walking down the sidewalk the sounds of the city were hitting my ears. The clip-clop of hooves against cobblestone roads. The wooden creak and groan of the wood taxi’s and their wooden wheels along the streets.

Suddenly there came the rattle of a cab and the clip-clop of hooves coming to stop next to us. “Well I thought I saw the ladies that fixed my wheel,” came the stallion’s voice that I recognized as the one from the show. He had a big smile once he saw AJ and Rarity, then got nervous when he saw me.

“Oh hi there,” Rarity greeted in her usual high-class cheery self, “Yes we are back for a short time to deal with something.”

The stallion nodded and leaned in to whisper, “Is he going to be trouble?” Rarity looked at him with a confused expression until he motioned toward me.

“Oh heavens no,” Rarity giggled at him waving a hoof, “That is our friend Emmit. He does look mean and dangerous, but he has more class the most of the nobles in Canterlot.”

Thanks for stroking my ego there Rarity. I smiled with a nod toward the stallion, “I’ve also been sent here by the princesses to deal with your foalnapping problem.”

“Is that right?” he questioned then tapped the ground, “Well I’m glad something’s being done about it.”

“Have you seen anything?” I asked curiously. Unfortunately, he just shook his head.

“Oh well that’s alright, but tell me,” Rarity said to him as she and AJ stepped into the vacant cab, “Do you know where Miss Coco Pommel is residing?” As I stepped in the cab to lay down on the back seat Rarity had that pose which told me she was batting her eyelashes at him.

“Yeah I do,” he smiled happily, “so sit down and enjoy the ride.”

^-^

“I do hope that she is in,” Rarity muttered softly as we stepped up to the building door. The area we were in appeared to be the middle-class part of town. Unlike Ponyville, these houses were the kind that butted up against each other. No front porch and no front or back yard were these houses. This one was a simple two story.

With one light on in the upper floor window.

About a minute after Rarity knocked on her door it opened with Miss Pommel standing there just as she appeared on the show. A smile lit up her face when she saw both AJ and Rarity. She started to greet them happily then saw me, “AJ, RarityeeeEEEEE.” When her eyes met mine the fur on her coat stood up on end just like on a cat. She even took a couple of jerky steps back in shock before Rarity was able to grab her in her magic, walk up to her, and start calming her down.

“It’s alright,” Rarity cooed at her with AJ on the other side of her as well, “Coco it’s alright. He’s a friend of ours and here because the princesses sent him.”

“That’s right,” AJ pipped up, “He even fought ol’ Blueblood for Rarity and showed him what for.”

“He is?,” she asked as they nodded to her, “He did?” They nodded again with a smile.

“Oh dear yes,” Rarity smiled letting Coco go from her magical grasp, “He even let me have the last word both after the fight, even with him hurt, and at Blueblood’s trial.”

Coco looked at Rarity in shock, “Trial? Really? What happened?” She ushered AJ, Rarity, and even I inside into the front den as they told her what happened.

AJ, Rarity and I were sitting on a couch in the den with Rarity almost sitting up against me while she told the tale of her, Blueblood, and I. The couch was wide enough for me to sit there as a dog would. Occasionally chipping in to clarify something. All the while two of my tails were a little active. Due to my large size, one tail was long enough to reach AJ, who was sitting on the other side of Rarity from me. Another tail was ready for Rarity. And when my tails were in the position, I slowly started snaking them around both AJ and Rarity.

It was right then that Rarity got to the end of the tale that Coco asked, “He does sound like a very noble…er fox, but surely he’s not perfect, what’s his faults?”

AJ spoke up right then by grabbing my tail with a hoof, “Yeah, he’s too flirty for his own good,” then bit into my tail.

“OW,” my body jumped slightly at the sudden pain that shot up my tail and into my spine. Much to Coco’s amusement while I quickly retreated my tail away from her jaws. “Of course I’m flirty,” I told them, “I’m just nineteen, barely out of high school, and my hormones are skyrocketing. It’s part of growing up for us.”

“Really?” Coco asked me, which I just nodded to her.

“Yes well,” Rarity looked up to me with a slight smirk, “AJ is right, but I don’t mind all that much. As long as he’s not embarrassing in public.”

That tugged at my heart as I used my tail, that was wrapped around her, to pull her to me in a hug. “Thank you Rarity,” I laid my head down against hers.

She giggled at me, “You’re welcome dear.”

AJ scoffed with a smirk, “You’re biased Rarity.”

“True,” she nodded in return, “I don’t deny it, but he does act a little foalish at times.”

I couldn’t help myself. “Do not,” I stuck my tongue out at her making a silly face. AJ just shook her head while Rarity tsked at me rolling her eyes. However, it made Coco feel more comfortable around me as she giggled at my antics. “Seriously though,” I continued, “I noticed your flyers about the play your putting on and I think that AJ and Rarity here are interested in helping you.”

“Yeah about that,” Coco starting saying in a tone that told us she had some bad news, “There’s no place to hold it at. The previous place is run down. I’ve been trying to get ponies together to clean and fix it, but apparently, nopony is interested in helping.”

“Well shoot we can help ya,” AJ piped up happily.

“But Applejack we are here on a friendship problem,” Rarity protested, “Not necessarily to put on a play.”

“How do you know?” I countered softly as they all looked to me. Then I turned to Coco, “What’s the history behind this play?” I asked obviously knowing the history so I could nudge them in the right direction.

“It used to be held every year on this date,” she explained, “but then the pony that was putting it on passed so there wasn’t another pony to take it over. So, it hasn’t been played for a number of years. It used to bring this whole community together. Lots of ponies remember this play from their youth and enjoyed it. I thought that if I could promote it and put it together that it could play again year after year. I’ve got the cast ready. Just no place to hold it.”

I raised an eyebrow to Rarity with a slight smirk.

She just smiled back at me then to Coco, “I think we can help with that.” Then she grinned at me, “And with Emmit here, I know that he can be a big help.” I knew that if this was to work out then I knew I couldn’t be involved. Besides, I had other priorities.

Shaking my head to her I had to decline, “Sorry, but I’ve got a foalnapper to catch. I was just going to take a quick nap somewhere and start looking around again.” Naturally, both Rarity and AJ didn’t like that I wouldn’t help them. Coco, however, smiled at me, “Well you can nap here if you want, I don’t mind.”

“Thank you very much Miss Pommel.”

“Oh just Coco is fine,” she smiled waving a hoof.

“Well thank you, Coco, I appreciate it,” I told her then grinned at Rarity pulling her against me with the tail that was still wrapped around her. “Of course I won’t have my teddy bear with me.” That got all of them looking at me with a “What?” look. That went away when I spoke to Rarity next, “Unless somepony wants to volunteer as a replacement.” Wiggling my eyebrows at her was probably not a good idea either.

She smiled sweetly at me, used her magic to uncoil my tail from around her, and put a hoof to my chest, “As much as I would enjoy that, Coco needs us right now.” She got down with AJ and Coco heading toward the door talking about the play all the way. Which left me alone with the couch for some much-needed rest before going out again.

^_^

(Luna’s POV, later that night at dinner)

I know that it’s only been a couple of days since Emmit left for Manehattan, but my heart couldn’t help but worry. How could it not worry due to the last time he fought against one of those shadow ponies? The last two days I slept rather poorly and restlessly over worry about him. Today wasn’t any different as I woke up and went into the bathroom for a shower. Now that I’ve admitted to myself how I truly feel about him, and even dating him, does he go away. With him away only confirmed to my mind what my heart had already known. With him away I felt the pull on my heart of somepony that you love isn’t here with you. The worry you feel about his safety and the loneliness that you feel when he's gone. As I walked into the shower and turned on the water my mind went back to the first time he bathed me. I had been so upset. Now. I wished for his hands again.

My shower was short and quick. After putting on my regalia I walked out of my room toward the private dining room where I was sure that Tia was waiting for me. “Good eve sister,” we hugged as I walked up to her and greeted, “Any word from Emmit yet?”

“I’m afraid not Lulu,” she shook her head while I took a seat beside her, “We might not hear from him until after he confronts the shadow pony.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” looking to her in earnest concern as it showed in my eyes, “He didn’t do so well the last time. What if something happens to him again?”

Tia looked to me and I could tell that he was worried too, it showed in her eyes as well. “I’m concerned as well, but you know as well as I that he is the only one that can confront these ponies. And possibly find and stop this shadow organization.”

“I don’t like it that he went alone.”

“I know Lulu,” she leaned over and hugged me again, “I know. I feel the same, but unfortunately, even our best guards just don’t have the ability.”

She held me tight as a tear escaped me and ran down my muzzle with a sniff, “I lost Sky, I don’t want to lose him too.”

“Nor I dear sister,” her voice wasn’t all that steady either, “Nor I.”

“I…I want him back with me,” I confessed leaning into her, “I want him to hold me and to hear his voice again.” She was quiet as I spoke, almost to the point of crying. “When I was taking a shower earlier is when it really hit me. I know I was soo hard on him when he bathed me last time, but now…now…”

“Now you want him here to do it again,” she finished for me as I nodded against her cheek. Then leaned back to look at her.

“You feel the same, don’t you?”

She gave me a sheepish blushing smile, but nodded, “Yes I do. I feel the same.”

“Alright, but I call dibs after he gets back,” I told her with a smirk.

She laughed with me about it as we hugged each other, “Deal, just leave some for me.”

“I promise I won’t wear him out,” I said after a giggle. Then we parted as she rung for dinner. It was right after the side door opened and the chefs were walking out with some trays that a scroll flashed into existence in front of my sister. At first, I thought it was just normal business, but then she gasped suddenly pulling me down to read it with her. It was from Emmit. He was alright, but haven’t seen pony napper yet.

Celestia and Luna,

I’m writing this from the Manehattan police department borrowing a pencil and paper. For the past couple of days, I haven’t seen anything yet, but they have been helpful in showing me where the foals have been foalnapped in the past. Mostly it’s been parks and such places where foals meet, play, etc. There is a play that hopefully will be going on tomorrow night. AJ and Rarity have been called here by the map for a friendship problem and we think that it’s the play that Coco Pommel wants to put on. It was a big hit in the past that brought the community together that could be again. There is a chance that the foalnapper could strike then, so while the play is going on I’ll be watching from the rooftops. I miss you two and hope to be back as soon as I can.

With Love,
Emmit

“At least he’s safe,” Tia said quietly as she put down the paper and started nibbling on her dinner.

I meanwhile, sat back in the chair in thought. “Right now yes,” my voice was quiet, but my thoughts were not, “Might not tomorrow night if the foalnapper strikes.”

“He will have his mind control ability to rely on this time, plus his experience from last time,” she said quietly, but her voice betrayed her. After one look to me, she sighed and hugged me again, “You want to join him don’t you?”

“Is it that obvious?”

She pulled back and smiled at me, “I see the same look now as I did when Sky was still with you. I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t want to be there with him. I do.”

“But.”

“But…,” she paused before continuing, “We are needed here. Besides, do you really want to keep him locked up just to keep him safe?”

I shook my head, “He wouldn’t like that.”

“No he wouldn’t I agree,” she agreed, “Somehow I think that freedom is the one thing that’s most important to him.”

“I just hope he’ll be alright.”

She held me with her head resting gently against mine, “So do I sister, so do I.”

^_^

(Emmit’s POV)

“Now don’t worry Rarity,” I told her after moving her head up to look into her eyes, “This time I know what I’m doing.”

“Are you sure darling?” she asked with worry in her eyes, “It didn’t go so well last time.”

I kept myself from rolling my eyes, “I’m sure Rarity, now just focus on the play and leave that foalnapper to me.” Rarity and I were standing near the stage behind the old wooden fence that surrounds the old park. As per what I saw in the show AJ and Rarity had done well putting together a small stage and gotten lots of ponies together to watch.

“Alright then,” she said in a soft huff, then leaned up and kissed me gently, “But you be careful or I’ll be upset with you.”

“Yes ma’am,” I said with a soft chuckle before using my parkour and dash ability to launch myself across the street. With the need to look over the whole area I went up to the roof of one of the buildings to watch. The play started shortly after I laid down on the roof. The crowd was already gathered with the occasional pony or family walking up a little late. One of them was the waiter and his daughter that I met at the restaurant. Little Kubota seemed to be so happy to be out and about with her father if the smile on her face was any indication. All the smiles of the fillies, colts, and adults were catching as it too brought a smile to my face as the play went on.

Until I saw one stallion moving through the crowd. Nothing too unusual about that or him. He looked to be a run of the mill unicorn stallion of a light yellow coat and off white mane and tail. Normally I wouldn’t give him another passing thought, but something just seemed off. His gaze was too intense for my liking. Then he stopped next to Kubota. Her father was watching the play so he didn’t see the stallion get the attention of Kubota. And when their eyes met they stayed that way for just a few seconds. However, after that, the stallion just walked away. Kubota stayed there until she too walked away about a minute later.

I had found the foalnapper. I hope that this time I could get some answers. Luckily for me, he was just entering the alley of the building that I was on. Which means it was easy to parkour my way down the wall behind him and into the shadows. Thankfully, this alley was just like any other New York alley back home, so I was able to hide behind a dumpster. Unfortunately, I had to wait until his attention was away from the crowd, so I waited until Kubota’s arrival grabbed his attention. Now was the tricky part. I had to do this quickly, so he wouldn’t catch on. Now that he is occupied, I crept around the dumpster tiptoeing my way over to him. My mimic and mind control ability at the ready. All I needed was to get close enough to grab his head and get eye contact with him. Then he’d be mine.

I tiptoed close enough that in one swift motion I grabbed his head, turned it quickly, so his eyes were staring into my glowing red ones. Instantly I used my two abilities to create the illusion of the same alley, but at night when every pony was gone and asleep and to gain control over his mind. I only had control over his mind, not access to his knowledge.

“Empress?” he whispered in awe and shock as I took a step back. Playing the part I held my head high to stare down at him. I tried to put on a face of scrutiny. “Should you really be here? What if somepony sees you?”

“I’m not worried,” I said. I wasn’t worried about the voice or appearance because his mind would immediately see and hear this “Empress.” But I needed a way to get information without tipping my hand…er paw. I leaned down to Kubota pretending to look her over, “And this is one that you’ve captured?” He nodded to me looking pleased. “And how will she fit into our plans?” I was hoping that he’ll think I was testing him.

He looked uncertain for a minute before answering, “She is young enough to be brainwashed and trained for your kingdom and army with the others.”

So that’s what they’re planning. I needed to know her name and what she looks like. There was a catch to what I was going to try. I could try and force him to tell me by going all out against his mind, but that might alert this “Empress” and have her kill him like she did the other one. I would just have to be quick. In one sudden move, my eyes glowed brightly and I looked at him as if displeased with him and kept eye contact. “You will answer all of my questions, no matter how unusual do you understand?”

He nodded to me, “Yes Empress.” The connection was solid for the moment. But that could change in an instant.

“What is the Empress’ name? And what does she look like?”

He just looked at me rather blankly, as if he was under hypnosis, “Sarah Blackheart, unicorn mare black coat with a bright blue mane and tail.” He seemed confused for a second as if he wasn’t sure about something.

“Speak.”

“She’s a unicorn yes, but she doesn’t stand like a pony on all four, but she stands like a Minotaur.”

“On her two hind legs?” This, plus her name surprised me. The name Sarah rocked my very core. For good reason.

“Yes.”

YOU’VE FAILED ME.

The same voice again, this time I recognize as a feminine voice. That of the Empress Sarah Blackheart. A wave of magic hit me through him breaking my control over him making me stumble backward. We recovered at the same time and when our eyes met again he growled at me, “You.” Then he stopped and stared at me in horror, “No Empress please.” I could feel the magic building within him already.

“Dammit,” I cursed and dashed to him grabbing him suddenly.

“What’re you doing beast?” he asked while trying to get free, but I couldn’t let that. While keeping him pinned to me my dash ability was the only thing that could get this living bomb away from the public quickly enough. “No Empress,” he pleaded time and again as the magic quickly built up within him. I was only about fifty feet above the ground when the poor stallion started screaming. The magic buildup was almost at its peak.

“Bye,” I said simply and used my tail whip to hit him up quickly into the air. It would be enough to keep the public safe.

BOOM.

However, I wasn’t safe from the explosion. Before I could dash back down to the nearest rooftop or down to the alley…

he exploded.

The initial explosion didn’t knock me unconscious, but it did knock me for a loop and put a ringing in my ears. Not to mention some leftover stallion that hit me. Through my dizziness, I had enough sense to put up my shield to try to protect me from whatever I was destined to hit. My journey downward took me through the roof of the apartment building, going through the attic, and through the ceiling of the top floor into the apartment bedroom below. Luckily for me, my shield protected me from most of the impacts. Of course, it didn’t do any good against the bed and furniture that got ruined when I bounced around like a ball in a pinball machine.

After finally stopping I dropped my shield, laid there for a minute, and took stock of my condition. All the while the sounds of commotion from not only outside, but inside, hit my ears. It was a little chaotic right now as the crowd outside probably started running. Meanwhile, inside I could already hear the questions that were being asked. In the meantime I checked everything. And even though everything still worked, I was hurt and the pain didn’t help either. Bits of the poor stallion peppered me good and I was bleeding. A couple of bad ones and a few that were just seeping a little.

“Ok,” I moaned out in pain as I tried to sit up, “That hurt.” I couldn’t sit still though. Kubota was still in the alley and still under some type of trance. Working through the pain I got up and limped my way out of the room. It didn’t appear that this apartment was occupied, luckily for me. At least somepony was saved from being squished by me. My two big bleeders were on my front right and back left leg, so my limping was pretty well pronounced.

When my bleeding and hurt body limped out of the room there was instant gasps and shouts of fear from the ponies that had been in the hallway. The mares pretty much ran back into their rooms and locked their doors. There was a couple of stallions who stood in the hallway looking like they were willing to fight me. Obviously planning on “defending” their neighbors. Luck was still in my favor because there were two shouts that hit my hears.

“Out of the way or I’ll buck you into next week,” came AJ’s voice from down the hall. It startled the stallions enough to get them to back off and let both AJ and Rarity through.

“Emmit,” Rarity called out to me as they passed the two stallions. Then she gasped when her eyes saw what happened to me when she got close. “Oh not again,” she complained while they took up both sides of me and looked me over.

“Hey, at least I’m conscious and still walking,” I tried to chuckle, but came out as coughs, “that’s a definite improvement.” Rarity scoffed slightly at that and started looking for something to patch me up with. “AJ,” I turned to her, “Down below in the alley is a filly named Kubota, she’s still under a trance.”

“Yeah we found her and her father, but we couldn’t bring her out of it,” she told me while letting me lean up against her.

“I think I can,” I told her while Rarity ripped up some carpet to begin wrapping up my two legs, “Tell her father that I’ll be down to try.” She nodded, made sure that I was alright to stand on my own again, then quickly left down the hallway. Meanwhile, Rarity was finishing up wrapping my hind leg.

“That will slow the bleeding,” she mumbled, “I don’t dare pull anything out right now. It’ll just make it worse.”

“You’re right,” I said to her while wincing with each step I took, “But we can worry about that later. There’s a filly that needs me.” Rarity stayed by my side while I limped and winced my way down the stairs and out of the apartment building. While we made our way out, the word had spread about what happened. So when Rarity and I finally went outside there was quite a crowd gathered there. When they all saw me there was the usual gasps and murmuring because of my battered state.

I didn’t have to look for Kubota and her father because her father walked up to me and bowed. “Can you herp my daughter,” he asked then took the other side of me to help support me.

After stopping in front of Kubota I looked over to him with a small smile, “I’ll try my best.” He bowed and while they held me up I looked down to the filly, gently took her head in a paw, and lifted it up. My eyes glowed brightly while looking into hers. It was sort of like a Vulcan mind meld of sorts between us. The way the trance worked was that she would be brought out of it when she arrived at the empress’ lair. So, I just used an illusion to make her think that she had arrived, which in turn canceled the trance.

When Kubota came out of she shook her head and looked around, then looked up to her father, “Daddy what happened?” As the crowd cheered I slowly laid down with Rarity’s help. When Kubota’s father scooped up his daughter and held her crying softly with the cheers of the crowd brought a smile to my face. It made the suffering worth it.

“How are you feeling sugarcube?” AJ asked with a wide smile and what appeared to be a new hat.

“Tired and battle-worn, but all in all,” I smiled looking to Kubota, “I fell pretty good.”

Kubota’s father brought her daughter up to me and both bowed to me, “Thank you for saving my daughter. You have brought great honor to my famiry. Ret me herp you.”

“I don’t get that last part,” Rarity whispered.

I nodded slowly to him, “Thank you, sir, that is much appreciated.” Right then a couple of earth stallions walked up to us.

“You know we got our cabs right nearby,” the elderly one said, “We can take you all over to his place.”

“Well that’s right nice of ya thank ya,” AJ nodded with a smile as Kubota’s father bowed to them thanking them as well. Yeah, it was all worth it. Plus I would be able to eat some meat dishes again that reminded me of home and get some help with my injuries oriental style. The crowd “Awwed” when Kubota kissed my cheek right before we got into the two cabs. Kubota and her father insisted on riding with me with Rarity and AJ taking the other one.

^_^

(Luna’s POV, one hour later, Throne Room)

Tonight was supposed to be the night of that play where he could face that shadow pony. Here I was sitting on the throne staring forward stone-faced waiting for some word from him. Alright, I’ll admit to being worried about him. I had canceled night court because he was the only thing running through my active mind. Possibilities of what could happen were constantly running through my mind and it seems there was no end to them.

“Your Highness?”

“Huh?” I asked after my night Captain was able to bring me out of my thoughts.

He sighed while looking at me with a thoughtful look of empathy, “You know what my wife used to do when I was away?” He continued after I shook my head, “She went to her friend's house and they had a night out together.”

I know that he was just trying to be helpful, so I just sighed with a smile, “I appreciate the sentiment, but-” A scroll that appeared right in front of me interrupted me. After grabbing it with my magic and unrolling it I scanned it. It was from Emmit and I couldn’t tell you how happy it made me to find out he was alright. But what he also had to say worried me. “I’ve got to see my sister,” I said to him quickly before running out of the throne room toward my sister.

Ignoring the saluting guards at the door I yanked it open with my magic and rushed in. “Sister,” I called out while trying to wake her by shaking her, “Tia wake up, I have news about Emmit.”

“What?” she was a little groggy after she woke up and sat up in the bed. All it took was shoving the letter in her face and she woke up in an instant and began reading the letter aloud.

Celestia and Luna,

First off I’m alright, just a little banged up is all. I met the shadow pony. It was a unicorn stallion and my trick worked, if only for a short time. Here’s what I found out. There’s an Empress by the name of Sarah Blackheart and anthropomorphic unicorn mare of black coat and bright blue mane and tail. She’s taking the foals to be brainwashed and trained in order to build her kingdom and take over Equestria. I was able to get the information through my two abilities, but the Empress repelled me and started to kill him like she did that other mare in Ponyville. Using my dash ability was the only way to get him up in the air away from the ponies gathered below. They were safe, I, however, didn’t get away from him in time to escape the blast. I got a broken front right leg, a couple of good bleeders, with a good few that only seeped. Plus cuts and bruises from going through one roof and a ceiling.

The good news is that I’m being fixed up at a place called the Sunrise Pearl, a place next to the Manehattan docks. By a little filly named Kubota. I met her and her father while getting something to eat here a couple of days ago. Little Kubota was the filly that the foalnapper took into an alley before I got to him. Unfortunately, I don’t know where the others are. Luckily I was able to bring her out of the trance he put her in. So in return Rarity, AJ and I are currently having dinner at their place. Rarity and AJ aren’t too thrilled with me having sweet and sour chicken with rice, but right now I’m just enjoying the sweet taste that reminds me of home. You know it’s unreal how alike this place reminds me of home. Their culture is so like back home. We have this exact dish as well. Anyway, you should come over and check it out one day. I’ll be on my way back tomorrow afternoon on the train. AJ and Rarity will come with me to make sure I don’t hurt myself, so don’t worry. I’m rolling my eyes because Rarity says that she’ll keep me in line and if I don’t stay in line then AJ will hog tie me.

Love,

Emmit

“Well it seems he’s fine,” Tia sighed happily with a smile before laying back down.

“Yes thank goodness,” I nearly collapsed onto her bed in relief, “And happy that both Miss Rarity and Miss Applejack are going to accompany him.”

“I agree Lulu,” she smiled up to me then yawned, “We’ll meet him at the station tomorrow and I’ll wake you when it’s time alright?”

I nodded to her and hugged her, “Alright, goodnight Tia.”

“Goodnight Lulu.”

^_^

(Emmit’s POV, Canterlot Station)

“Going back to Ponyville AJ?” the whistle blew just when the train was pulling into the station. I was still in my Ninetales form with my front leg in a makeshift homemade cast. It only hurt when I put weight on it, so I was limping. Rarity had voted to stay with me for now. To make sure I was taken care of, not that I was complaining any.

“Yeah,” she nodded while keeping her seat on the bench in the royal car we were in, “Need to get back to the farm and see what’s been going on. There was supposed to be the yearly sister’s thing goin’ on, but sense I wasn’t there this year I wondered what happened.”

“Well have a good trip back home AJ,” I told her while she got up, walked over to me, and hugged me, “Glad your trip went better than mine did.”

“I’m just happy that you aren’t more hurt than you are,” AJ responded happily.

Rarity, who was on the other side of me nudged me gently, “I whole heartily agree with that Applejack, as will both the princesses as well.” Right then the train’s bell went off a few times before we came to a halt and heard the steam being released from the engine.

“Speaking of which,” I smirked while looking out the car window and saw both Celestia and Luna standing there looking beautiful and giddy. “Shall we go and meet them?” I asked then looked to AJ, “Have time for a short talk with them before you change trains?”

“Maybe,” she nodded as we made our way out of the car and into the station proper. My walk had a well pronounced limp in it that they noticed right off and those happy faces changed to slight worry. Of course, the four guards, two sun and two night, stood by with their usual stoic expressions.

“Emmit,” Luna spoke, and quickly walked up, first putting her head in the crook of my neck in a gentle hug, “We are so glad that you are safe.”

“I’m safe my Luna,” gently putting my head against hers I responded, then looked over to Celestia, “And glad to be back.” Luna wouldn’t let go, so Tia just joined in and hugged from the other side.

“Welcome back Emmit,” Tia whispered to me, “You don’t know how hard it was to put you onto that mission. Worried if you would return or not.” My eyes closed while I just enjoyed being hugged by them. Each kissed my cheeks before taking a step back making me grin a little.

“Don’t worry Princess Celestia, Princess Luna,” Rarity stepped up with a wide smile, “I made sure he obeyed that sweet filly Kubota and her father when they treated him.”

“Yeah they sure knew what they were doin’ that’s for sure,” AJ echoed with a nod, “And the food was real good too.” Then an announcement came about the train leaving for Ponyville, “Sorry to say hi and run, but that’s my train.”

“Thank you Miss Applejack,” Tia told her with a wide smile, “for your service and looking out for Emmit.”

“Indeed Miss Applejack,” Luna echoed as well, “If there’s anything we can do, please let us know.”

“LAST CALL FOR PONYVILLE.”

“I will Princesses, thank you,” AJ bowed to them then turned quickly for her train.

“You need to leave Miss Rarity?” Tia wondered as we all started walking toward the front of the station. Two guards in front and two guards in back of us as escorts. Luna on one side of me almost walking up against me and Celestia on the other side of me with Rarity on the other side of her. Instinctively I put a couple of tails over Luna and Celestia as we walked.

“Not at the moment no,” she replied, “I wanted to stay a little bit before leaving tonight to make sure he’s taken care of.”

Luna yawned before she was able to reply, “Commendable Miss Rarity, sorry.” I smirked thinking that Luna will probably fall asleep in the carriage on the way back to the castle. We had just stepped out of the station and down the steps toward the carriage when she said it.

“Thank you Miss Rarity,” Tia gladly told her, “Have you two had lunch yet?”

“No your highness,” Rarity said as we stepped up to the carriage, “Because the train was running early they haven’t served lunch just yet.”

Both sun guards opened the double doors of the carriage. Luna, meanwhile, was nearly sleepwalking as we approached. “Well please join us then,” Celestia invited then stepped into the carriage first. Luna went next, although she nearly crawled in.

I looked to Rarity to go in next, but she just stared at me. I wanted to be a gentleman and have her go first, however she wanted me to go first because of my injury. However, that decision was made for us when I was lifted up by Luna’s magic and gently deposited next to her. Rarity stepped in with a giggle while the carriage was secured and pulled by the guards. They spared no expense on the interior. The two “seats” on either side was more like queen-sized beds. When I was laid down Luna snuggled up next to me and due to the slow rocking motion was quickly put to sleep. I placed a few tails over her like a blanket as Tia and Rarity giggled quietly.

Luna more than likely was affected by me leaving the most. It was kind of obvious considering how she’s acting right now. Made sense because of her history with Sky and then she admits to liking me right before I leave on a mission that could kill me. Right now she looked happy anyway. The question would be, how the heck do we get her inside? Will she let me go if she stays asleep? Will I be able to get some breakfast? My stomach rumbled giving me a statement that I had better. Rarity and Tia just smiled at me when my stomach made itself known.

Soon we entered the courtyard of the castle and up to the steps. Luna was still asleep. “Luna,” I whispered into her ear after nudging her with my nose, “Luna, we’re at the castle.”

“Hmm?” she didn’t open her eyes though.

“We’re back at the castle,” my normal voice seemed to cut through her foggy mind, “Time to go inside.”

She yawned then lifted up her head, “Sorry, I fella sleep.”

“Think nothing of it Princess Luna,” Rarity smiled, “You’re not normally up at this hour.”

Tia giggled slightly but echoed Rarity, “Indeed Lulu, Miss Rarity is correct. Now let’s get you to bed, dear sister.”

After another yawn, Luna stood up slowly and almost crawled out of the carriage, “Alright, but only if Emmit joins me after he’s had lunch.”

“I wouldn’t miss it,” after a chuckle I was helped out of the carriage. Slowly we made our way inside then Luna was sent on her way to bed after telling her I would be there shortly. She said that I’d better and off she went.

^-^

“So, this is what I found out,” I began after taking a few bites of the baked fish, rice and beans that was served to me. “Wow, this fish is really good,” I chuckled after the smirk they gave me, “Anyway, this ‘Empress’ is called Sarah Blackheart. She’s in charge of this shadow organization. She has some type of connection with her subjects and when she found out what I was doing, she remotely stopped me. She’s gathering the foals so she can brainwash them into an army for her. I’m not able to disconnect her subjects from her. Next time somepony will need to come with me that can do so if you want to have a chance at saving them.” Then went back to eating.

“Such a horrible thing,” Tia said quietly after a couple of minutes. Rarity, who already heard all this, was eating quietly. “Luna might be able to break this connection,” Tia mused aloud then looked to me, “Her specialty is dealing with dreams, fears, and the mind. We can bring it up later. For now, you and her can rest.”

“Do you know this Sarah Blackheart Princess?”

Tia shook her head, “No Miss Rarity I do not, but the name Sarah isn’t like any other pony name.”

“Noticed did you?” my voice was quiet as I looked down to my near-empty plate. They just looked at me, waiting for me to continue. “Sarah is a common human female name,” I said quietly, “and there’s something else. She’s not fully pony.” They were shocked by this news. Both stopped eating and just stared at me, “She’s what humans call anthropomorphic, or anthro for short. She’s part pony…and part human. How she got that way and how she got that name I don’t know.”

“You mean that this ‘Empress’ is part human?”

“I don’t know for sure Tia,” I shook my head slowly then looked to them with a solemn expression, “But it would appear that might be the case. Which is why next time somepony needs to disconnect her minions from her so we can question them.”

“Indeed,” she quietly responded, “Seems like there’s more to this than any of us thought. For now, though I think you can rest.” I looked up to her to see a smirk a mile wide. With only a smile I got down while she came up and kissed me softly, “Have a good sleep and go comfort, my sister.”

Then she put a sleep inducer on me. Rarity came up and kissed my muzzle, “Sleep well dear.”

“Thank you, ladies,” thanked them quietly then left to go take a nap.

^-^

She made it to her room, but until I quietly slipped into the bed with her she was sleeping a little fitfully. But when I crawled into bed with her she rolled over, cuddled with me, and with a long contented sigh slept soundly again. The sleep inducer must have been on a time delay because soon I was asleep as well.

Of course, I had to sleep with my good side facing down so I wouldn’t be laying on my bad leg, which is why she had to roll over for me. Now, a few hours later, when I woke up before she did, her head was resting on my neck. Her gentle breathing blowing against it softly. Her legs were tucked under her, but a wing was draped over me. My bad leg was resting over her shoulders and I was contently comfortable.

A few minutes later I heard, and felt, her give out a long yawn, then pulled her head away to lay it on the pillow. She smiled at me as her eyes glowed with the joy of having me with her, “Good evening."

I kissed her softly, “Evening my Luna. You were sleeping rather well.”

Her wing massaged me gently as she hummed in thought, “Yes and I really don’t want to get up either.”

I chuckled, “Then don’t. Let’s just stay here for a while.”

“I do have some time before I have to raise the moon,” she mused softly with a smirk. Then her hoof came up and lightly rubbed against my muzzle, “I’m glad that you’re back and I realized something when you were gone.”

“What’s that?”

“I’m falling in love with you Emmit,” she said quietly, “And it’s with you, Emmit, and not with the memory of Sky. I do want a committed relationship with you Emmit.”

“And Tia?” I had to ask and get that out of the way. I didn’t want to wonder.

“We talked about it,” she began then smiled, “And if she falls in love with you as well, then we will start a herd with you. You aren’t going to come between us and both of us can love you, Emmit.”

I was really glad to hear that and told her by kissing her gently. She hummed during the kiss. It wasn’t a hurried or passionate kiss, but a lazy kiss that spoke of things to come. “I’m glad for that and I want to be committed to you both.”

“Good,” she hummed contently, “Can you change forms?”

I shook my head, “Not a good idea while my leg broke.”

“We could go to the royal physician tonight and have her look at it and see if she can speed things up,” she mused while looking at my broken leg in the cast. Then looked up to me with a blush, “Because this time I want you to bathe me as you did before.”

“Believe me, it would be my pleasure,” a wide smirk made its way on my face. I was doing to them what all stallions dreamed of, so yes I was enjoying it immensely.

“This time, however,” she continued with another blush, “It’s I that wants to bathe you.”

A smirk hit my face that was a mile wide, “Now there’s a switch.” She looked giddy about it as she helped me off the bed, to make sure I don’t hurt my leg. And we made our way into the bathroom.

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