(Celestia’s POV, just before dinner)

For once, this mission that Emmit was on shouldn’t be that hard. It was only Blueblood, so how hard could it be? It wasn’t yet ready to lower the sun for the night, but Lulu should be up by now, so I was making my way to her room to find out. Usually she would always be up for dinner, or breakfast in her case. Even though I wasn’t worried for Emmit, there wasn’t a time when we knew he’d be done either.

With a nod to Luna’s guards, my hoof raised and knocked against her door, “Lulu? Are you awake?” Her door opened by her magic, thus giving me the invitation to enter. The room was still dark, although she was up was evident but still in bed. Closing the door with my own magic, to shut out the hallway light, I made my way over to her, “Good evening Lulu.”

“Good eve Tia,” she mumbled softly through a yawn.

“Trouble sleeping?” asked curiously while lowering my head on the pillow next to hers sitting down on the floor.

“I have worries about Blueblood’s dealings,” she nodded to me.

“We will get him to talk when Emmit brings him in,” my smile to her was reassuring, “He knows how to deal with Blueblood. And after he tells us everything we can then put the whole thing to rest.”

Lulu smiled to me, “Yes, you’re right Tia. He is very capable.”

It was too good not to pry, “So...” I drew out the word slowly while grinning like a filly again.

She eyed me suspiciously, “So….what?”

“Speaking of him being capable...” I trailed off again while grinning mischievously. The look on her face told me she was blushing. “How was your time with him in Las Pegasus?”

I could see the many emotions passed on her face before she scooted over conspiratorially with a giggle, “Ok, I see why you like his fox form.” She went on while I giggled excitedly, but then looked to her in mild shock at what she said next, “But you should try it with a magic suppression ring on to get the true predator experience.”

Her grin and excited eyes stared at me having my words caught in my throat. Did she really just say that?

“It’s worth it,” she said still grinning, “Trust me. And try it in his human form as well. You won’t regret his hands or especially those fingers. They tantalize you in all the right places sister.”

I just couldn’t speak as my mind was running through that possibility. It must have been obvious because about a minute later, while I was still staring at my sister, she said, “It seems you like the idea.” What’s she talking about? My cheeks blushed at my stiff hard wings when I noticed them. And wouldn’t you know that it was right then we were interrupted by the doors banging open suddenly.

BANG “Your Highness!” came one the voice of one of Luna’s guards.

The loud bang startled me senseless. I think my body rose in the air by about ten hooves or so with a startled shout while turning around to face the guard. “YES?!” My sister was laughing behind me as I tried to get my heart back into my chest again, “We weren’t doing anything, just talking.”

“Oh sister,” Luna kept laughing softly with her head now laying on my shoulder, “You were never good at hiding it.” Then she addressed the guard, “What is it?”

The stallion guard saluted, “Emmit and his team have returned and are in the hospital requesting your presence.”

A cold shiver ran down my spine and felt Luna stiffen behind me. “Are they alright?” I asked quickly with fear with the worst thoughts running through my mind. Luna got up so fast and out of bed, I thought she had teleported.

“We should go right now,” she said practically trotting in place as she stared at me; worry running through her frantic mind.

“Oh yes, of course,” rapidly fired back at her in agreement and stood up with my own panic rising, “chariot.”

“Yes!” then turned to her guard, “Please get a chariot ready for us immediately for the hospital.

The guard snapped a salute, “Yes, your Highness,” and then ran out of the room. The second guard was waiting outside to escort us from the castle to the hospital. It was like we couldn’t get there fast enough. How could anything happen to him while trying to get Blueblood?

^_^

“My sister and I are here to see Emmit and his team. What room would they be in?” we were almost running into the hospital, almost teleporting out of the chariot when we got near. Needless to say, I think we startled the poor mare at our quick appearance.

After a second the mare was over the shock enough to almost squeak out, “Hallway on your right,” she pointed over to it, “third door on your left.”

“Thank you so much,” Luna said to her while I was almost running down the hallway, though realistically it was probably no more than a brisk walk. And when we got to the room, not only was Emmit there but a male and female unicorn. It was a large enough room for all three of them, though barely enough room for the nurses to walk around. Emmit didn’t look to be in too bad of shape, though over his body had burn marks. The other two had burn marks too, but also two legs in a cast for the stallion and one for the mare.

“Emmit,” Luna called out to him immediately going to his side between him and the wall, “How are you?”

I placed myself at the foot of his bed as he raised his head and smiled to us, “I’m fine compared to the Major and the Lieutenant. They got hurt worse than me.”

Looking over to the mare as she looked over giving me a salute with her good front leg, “Would have gotten the bucker too if Blueballs hadn’t gone dark on us and used shadow magic. Unfortunately, the Lieutenant got hit the worst.”

“I should have zigged rather than zagged,” he wheezed out softly while keeping his eyes closed.

Luna and I looked at each other with shock. “Blueblood?” I asked softly while eyeing them with an incredulous look.

“Yeah,” Emmit spoke up with a frown, “Unfortunately things went south. It wasn’t just him. There was a shadow pony with him.” Both of us listen with rapt attention as he told us what happened. “Never thought he’d go that far,” Emmit sighed, “But there he was walking down the street with a shadow mare.”

“And the captain owes me big too,” the Major mumbled quietly.

Emmit just smirked at that before continuing, “Because of the Major we got everything recorded. Blueblood is now in league with the shadow organization. The house was under a nondescript name for the organization. In the recording, we got the audio evidence of their collusion with one another to have the council take over rulership.”

“And thanks to the Lieutenant we got the paperwork behind it to prove it,” said the Major.

Even though the Lieutenant was hurt badly, didn’t lift his head, or barely opened his eyes there was a prideful smile on his face.

“Unfortunately,” Emmit continued with a frustrated sigh, “the Empress destroyed the mare and Blueblood got away. There’s no telling where he is now.”

It took almost all I had to speak around the sudden tightness in my voice, “You are all alright.” Wincing slightly while looking at the Lieutenant, “Or going to be alright. That’s what matters. And with all the evidence you’ve gathered, there will be sweeping changes in the council. Thank you for your service and I’ll have the doctor to give me reports on your recovery.”

“Thank you, your Highness,” the Major saluted again, “The captain is making a full report now back at his office.”

I nodded to her while Luna spoke up, “Thank you all. I’ll see to it that your dreams are peaceful tonight.”

“Oh your Highnesses,” came a mare’s voice from behind me, “I heard that both of you had dropped by.” One of the doctor’s stepped into the room wearing a usual doctor’s garb going over to the Lieutenant first. Leaning over the bed she used her magic to check his vitals.

“How am I doc?” he wheezed out softly.

“Oh, you’re awake,” her voice was soft but happy, “that’s a good sign. Your two broken legs will heal within a week, but your three broken ribs will take a little longer. Mostly because we are being extra careful. No internal bleeding, but your lungs are bruised.”

“In other words,” the Major cut in with an amused smirk, “Lay down, shut up, and heal.”

The doctor cleared her throat softly while glaring lightly at the Major, “Not quite in such blunt terms, but yes. You Major should be able to leave in the morning.” Then she turned to Emmit while also looking at Luna and I, “Emmit is ready to go. Each one of them had burns which have already been healed. The Lieutenant will be here for a little while under watch.”

“Thank you, doctor,” I told her with an appreciative smile, “Let me know how the Lieutenant is doing?” After the nurse nodded I addressed the Major, “I’m pleased that you are alright Major.”

“Thank you, your Highness,” she said simply with a slight head bow.

After a nod from me, Emmit decided it was time to leave as he got off the bed, with Luna’s help. “Well, I think it’s time to mosey along now.” He winced slightly as he stood up, but didn’t show any other signs of discomfort. “I for one don’t want to suffer by eating hospital food.” I had to giggle when the Major stuck her tongue out at him while pouting as we left.

“We will be home soon enough,” leaning over I kissed his cheek then whispered, “We are so glad you are alright.”

Luna leaned up and did the same on the other side, “Yes, we are indeed. But saddened at the course Blueblood chose to take.”

Emmit sighed in agreement while walking down the hallway toward the front door. “Unfortunately he made his choice. What’s really sad is that in his delusional mind he thinks he can honestly win.”

The chariot was waiting for us outside right where we left it with two guards pulling it. It was no surprise that after we got in that Emmit was sitting between us with both of us leaning against me. His tails were around our bodies pulling us to him happily as the chariot lurched forward. And we sat in comfortable silence, just enjoying each other’s company. The light of the evening sun shining through the windows of the enclosed chariot bathing us in its warmth and light.

Until the whole chariot rocked violently followed by the guards screaming. Thinking quickly my magic ignited teleporting us out of the chariot a good number of hooves away down the street. “Blueballs?” Emmit asked in shock watching him attack the guards.

I quickly teleported the guards away from Blueblood’s attacks and to our side quickly rendering aid. “Luna, on me,” Emmit shot out quickly as Blueblood destroyed the chariot by a blast of shadow magic, which he also used against the guards. Unfortunately, I wasn’t that good against shadow magic as Luna is, so it was my job to take care of the guards while they dealt with him.

Both of them were working together in an attempt to corral him, so Emmit could use his mental ability on him. However, Blueblood must have gotten more than just shadow magic from the organization because he wasn’t good at teleporting. Much less doing it time and again to get away from them. Emmit was using a number of his duplicates to surround him, but he would just laugh and teleport away. Down the street, the rooftops, and even once retreated inside of a building. Luckily for us, he didn’t take hostages.

How could he do this? He always wanted power so encourage the council to gain more power wasn’t out of the realm of possibility, but this? We had to finish this quickly if we wanted to not only protect the public but to save his life as well. Both knew that. Thus why Emmit was attacking him as hard and as fast as he could, or at the very least to get close enough for his mental ability.

Both Emmit and Luna knew that it was only a matter of time before they prevailed. Because of Blueblood’s arrogance, his amateur use of his new magic, and his focus being torn between both of them is why he was getting slower and weaker. I did what I could to protect the buildings with protection wards as each magical shot headed toward a window or wall. Each one had the potential of injuring a pony.

Finally, after what felt like an hour Blueblood was caught between Emmit’s duplicates and an attack from Luna. After he went down Luna yelled out, “Emmit now,” where Emmit rushed forward and grabbed his head focusing his mental ability on Blueblood. But now was Luna’s turn. I watched Emmit get some information from him while Luna rushed forward using her magic to disconnect him from Blackheart’s destruction.

“You have failed us prince,” Emmit said to him while mimicking a shadow pony, “We didn’t make you one just to see you fail. We thought you had potential.”

“I do, I do,” he said back with his eyes going wide in fright and terror. Blueblood backed up against a wall of one of the buildings with a soft thunk, “Please don’t kill me, I can get you the council.”

Time was running out. Even though he’s done so many things against us he was still family. Sort of. As many times removed as he is. I didn’t want to see him die.

Useless excuse for a prince

We all heard Blackheart’s voice in the air and felt the rush of magic building up. “No, I can still be useful,” Blueblood called out.

“Almost got it,” Luna said with strain apparent on her face and beads of sweat on her brow. My heart was pounding in my chest as I couldn’t do anything but watch and hope.

“Your Highness!” I heard from behind me as guards started arriving.

“Stay back,” I ordered them firmly then motioned to the two guards by me passed out, “Take them to the hospital and stand by to take Blueblood into custody.” They saluted as four guards took the two away as the rest stood by me.

“Got it,” Luna cheered and with a flash of light, the magical buildup within Blueblood vanished.

“Now guards,” I told them, “Take Blueblood away.” There was a squad of about fifteen guards and half of them rushed up to deal with Blueblood. I rushed up as well as Emmit stepped over to my tired and weary sister. “Emmit, Lulu,” calling out in concern I ran up to them getting on Luna’s other side supporting her. “Are you alright sister?”

Luna used us as support even after sitting down with a heavy long sigh, “Yes. Yes, I’m alright.” As Blueblood was carried away unconscious the rest of the guards surrounded us for safety. “Just a little tired from the strain.”

“And a good job you did too,” Emmit kissed her cheek as his own body showed signs of strain, and looking good I might add.

Putting a wing over my sister in a hug I agreed, “Yes you did Lulu. You two make a wonderful team, but I think you deserve a nap.”

Luna scoffed sticking her tongue out at me in a silly fashion, “My dear Tia, I may be tired, but I am not...” Then she stopped and turned looking to Emmit. I watched as Emmit looked back in confusion. My mind was confused as well until Luna suddenly leaned heavily on Emmit turning her head to me with a mile wide grin on her face. “On second thought I think that’s a wonderful Idea.”

I frowned. “No, I agree with you Luna you don’t need rest,” I said dryly, “I think you need to go to the hospital, the strain was obviously way too much for you.” Luna was fixing to make a snarky remark until Emmit spoke up to quickly diffuse us.

“Ladies, ladies,” he interrupted quickly getting out attention, “I got a great idea. Why don’t we all take a nap together?”

Luna and I looked at each other. Then started grinning. “You know Emmit,” I said slowly and seductively while sashaying on the other side of him, “I think that is a most wonderful idea.” Luna and I giggled when he chuckled nervously looking between us.

^_^

(Twilight’s POV, a few hours later)

“Pinchy knees,” Pinkie called out from her cushion on the floor of my room, “Pinchy knees.” All of us were gathered together for some time to ourselves as another sleepover night. And it started out great with us starting with makeovers. We had just started the truth or dare portion of the night until Pinkie suddenly spoke up silencing everypony.

“Which was that one again?” AJ asked curiously as she quickly looked around the room nervously.

“That means something bad is going to happen,” she explained looking a little sad, “But this is all four of my knees, that means something bad had happened and is going to happen.”

“Which is?” Rainbow asked quietly as the group went silent with all eyes looking around the room, “I don’t see anything happening.”

“I don’t know,” Pinkie replied with a shrug.

“TWILIGHT!”

“I think I heard Spike,” Fluttershy looked toward the door.

“Oh no something happened to spike?” I got up, now worried, and headed toward the door. “SPIKE?!” The door opened right before I got to it showing an out of breath Spike holding a rolled up parchment in his claws.

“Letter...” he panted, “from...Celestia.”

I quickly took the letter and read aloud.

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/

Dear Twilight,

I’m writing this to inform you that we, Emmit, Luna and I were attacked this afternoon. First off all of us are well and safe. I would like you and your friends to come to Canterlot to for a debriefing on the events. The shadow organization is moving faster than anticipated in ways we didn’t expect. And Blueblood was a part of it.

Luna will debrief you when you arrive because by the time you get here Emmit and I will be asleep.

Your Friend,

Celestia.

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/

There was silence in the room after I read the letter and turned back to face my friends. Nopony knew what to say about that. It was a total shock and it showed on each of their faces.

“I know your thing is generosity Rarity,” AJ said softly while looking to her, “And we love ya for it, but maybe you were too generous with Blueballs.”

She just nodded slowly in agreement, “As Luna would say, ‘Indeed.’”

“Oh, my,” Fluttershy whispered, “But to go so far.”

“Attacking Celestia, Luna, and Emmit?” I looked over in total disbelief, “I mean he hated Emmit sure, but Celestia and Luna are his aunts, even far removed as he is.”

“At least they are all alright,” Spike quietly reassured where they all agreed with a nod, “But it didn’t say what happened to Blueballs.”

Looking down again told me he was right. “You’re right Spike it didn’t say directly, but I’m sure she meant Blueballs...Blueblood as well when she said that all of them were safe. I should get going.” My magic whisked the paper over to a shelf, “Sorry girls, and Spike, but it looks like the sleepover is postponed and we’re heading to Canterlot.”

“How are we going to get there this late?” Pinkie asked tilting her head to the side.

“Emergency train Pinkie,” I said to her. “Ok gather what you want or need girls.”

^_^

(Canterlot)

The train ride was relatively quiet but thankfully quick. Nopony really saying much because we were trying to wrap our mind around what was in the letter. Not to mention the questions that we had around what happened. Around thirty minutes later we were walking down the hallway toward the throne room where Luna was waiting on us.

As usual, the Lavender had already been replaced in the hallways by the time we got there. And the two lunar guards at the double doors opened them for us. “We’re here Princess Luna,” my voice echoed in the big throne room, as did the doors closing behind us.

“You all have made good time,” Luna stood from the throne to meet us at the bottom of the dais.

“So what happened?” Rainbow asked first.

Luna nodded and sat down in front of us, “Earlier, Blueblood and some nobles tried to introduce a bill that would give the council complete control over Canterlot.”

“What?!” my voice was quick and sharp with shock. I went silent when Luna looked at me.

“Shocking yes,” Luna continued, “We were going to apprehend him for questioning and possible punishment for such a political coup. We eventually found him at a house, but there was also a shadow mare with him. Emmit and his team were hurt with the Major and Lieutenant taking the most injuries. It didn’t go so well and we lost the shadow mare to Blackheart’s disposal spell while Blueblood got away. Turned out that Blueblood had not only joined with the shadow organization, but they gave him abilities and powers as well. He attacked us hours ago while leaving the hospital.”

“Tarnation,” AJ said quietly.

“Indeed,” Luna nodded, “Emmit and I were able to save Blueblood’s life by severing his connection with Blackheart. He is now in the dungeons.”

Silence permeated the room.

“Whoa,” Rainbow whispered.

“At least he’s alive,” Fluttershy’s quiet voice tried to be reassuring.

“He should have listened to me and accepted my generosity,” Rarity sighed in pity with a shake of her head, “Not that I care for the brute, but he could have been killed. Fluttershy’s right, at least he still has his life thanks to you and Emmit.”

Luna agreed with a nod, “Yes, but I’m afraid that’s all he’s going to keep. As his freedom will be taken away for life.”

“What’s the fallout going to be?” I wondered aloud looking to Luna

“My sister and I will be making sweeping changes in the council due to all of this,” Luna sighed shaking her head. “In the same house was file cabinets filled with paper documents. All from the shadow organization’s dealings with some council members. Blueblood was the head of the spear, so to speak.”

“You’re right Pinkie,” AJ muttered to her friend, “That’s definitely bad.”

“Indeed, Miss Applejack,” Luna agreed with a nod, “Unfortunately, we will have to make arrests in the morning.”

“Oh dear,” Rarity’s sad voice was echoed by the rest of the girls.

“We felt it was important to inform you in case the elements were needed,” Luna continued, “And to keep ‘an eye out’ as the modern saying goes.”

Rainbow gave a quick salute and a nod, “Don’t worry Princess, nothing will get passed us.”

Luna smiled at them, “I know my friends. For now, it’s getting late. So, the castle is yours to stay in. And I’m sure that Twilight knows where everything is.” The girls, including Luna, giggled at the playfulness behind Luna’s smirk.

“I do,” it was good to giggle a little after that unpleasant news. And with a nod, the girls started walking toward the side door, but I stayed behind. My mind was thinking about Emmit and his secret ever since the train over.

“Is there something else Twilight?” Luna asked me softly while stepping closer and lowering her voice to speak privately.

“Well...” I spoke hesitantly while looking between her and my friends. My friends noticed that I wasn’t with them, got curious, so they turned and watched.

“What ya waitin’ on Twilight?”

“Oh I’ll be right there AJ,” I told her with a slightly forced smile and a wave of my hoof. I felt Luna shift and put a comforting wing over me.

“Twilight,” she said gently, “I am glad to call you my friend. What’s troubling you?”

“Well, you see...” I started saying before eyeing my friends and their disapproving stare. It was like they were saying, ‘You promised not to say anything.’ She did, but she didn’t Pinkie Promise, did she? “I...don’t know if I should say anything or not.”

“Why not?” Luna looked down at me with concern and curiosity, “I can’t help if you don’t tell me.”

“It’s about Emmit and-”

“Twilight,” Pinkie interrupted quickly with caution in her voice. It was like a war was going on inside of my mind. Part of me demanded to tell her while the other part of me demanded that I stay quiet. I bit my lip as my mind warred against itself with my eyes going between Luna and my friends.

“Go ahead Twilight,” Luna said encouraging me to talk.

Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Rarity shook their heads.

Finally, one part of my mind won out. “Emmit knew all about Equestria before he came here,” suddenly I just blurted it out quickly. It was the many emotions that ran across Luna’s face that got me realizing that I just made a terrible mistake. Gasping at my stupidity my hooves went to my mouth as if wanting to take back what I just said.

“Twilight!” Pinkie’s hair deflated slightly, “Emmit was going to tell them.”

“He...what?” Luna looked down at me while taking a step back. The look on her face wasn’t a pleasant one. It was a mixture of deep hurt and disbelief at first, “He knew about Equestria? He knew about my sister and I?” I didn’t say anything, but I must have nodded to her or said yes with my eyes. “About you and the rest of the elements?” Did I nod again?

“No...that…” Luna shook her head, almost violently, in denial with a couple of tears streaming down her face.

Oh by Celestia’s sun I made a terrible mistake.

“Look, your Highness,” AJ stepped forward with her eyes almost glaring at me, “He was going to tell you himself as he told us during our meeting about Starlight Glimmer.”

The emotion on Luna’s face slowly started to change from disbelief to hurt and working its way to anger. Tears started streaming down her face.

“Yeah it’s ok,” Rainbow pipped up trying to be reassuring floating her way over to Luna, “It’s no biggie. So he knew about us before coming here. I don’t see the problem with it.”

That’s when Luna’s head stopped shaking and her eyes narrowed at her. “There is something wrong with it,” her voice was quiet, but filled with a deep hurt and anger. I watched in horror as her horn glowed readying her magic as she looked over to me, “Thank you for bringing this to my attention Miss Sparkle. I’ll take care of it from here.”

“No wait Prin-” I tried telling her before...

FLASH

And she was gone.

“Twilight!?” the girls all admonished at the same time while glaring at me.

What have I done?

^_^

(Celestia’s POV)

I was sleeping so soundly. Was being the operative word because it was interrupted when I felt Emmit being torn from me. And before I even opened my eyes to see what happened I heard him yell out and a loud thud. In an instant my body was up, my magic was activated and glancing around looking for an intruder. But my eyes only spotted my sister. My very angry looking sister at that. “Lulu, what is it? What’s wrong? What happened to Emmit?” At first, I tried to get off the bed and run to him but was stopped by Luna’s magic that held me in place.

“What the bloody hell Luna?” Emmit stood up while favoring a front leg.

“Don’t approach Tia,” Luna glared at me with hurt in her eyes and tears streaming down her face. “He’s been deceiving us this whole time.”

“WHAT?!” Emmit and I said simultaneously.

“Luna, have you lost your mind or something?” Emmit accused and took a few steps forward.

“Don’t you DARE come near us you...you...” Luna’s body tensed and shook with anger with her horn glowing brightly. She was really ready to attack at a second’s notice. Emmit stopped, now not only frustrated but clearly confused. As was I.

“Lulu what on Equestria are you-”

“Twilight told us that he knew all about Equestria before coming here,” Luna blurted out quickly while keeping her horn lowered toward Emmit.

“What?!”

“It’s true sister!” Luna reiterated with a growl. “He...” she was deeply hurt with tears streaming down her face, “He...knew about you...about ME...about Twilight and her friends.”

The look on his face said it all.

“Twilight told you didn’t she?” his voice held disappointment and it was etched on his muzzle. “Son of a bitch,” he said quietly and shook his head.

“You see?!” Luna blurted out.

“No you don’t see,” Emmit’s body slowly morphed into his human form, now favoring an arm as he held it with the other one. “You don’t see at all,” he said taking another step forward.

“Stay away,” Luna’s voice shook and wavered with hurt.

All I could do was just stare and watch as my mind tried to make sense of it all. He knew about us the whole time? What does that even mean?

“Yeah, so what if I knew about Equestria before coming here? So what? Does that throw into question everything I’ve done so far? Nearly dying and getting hurt trying to stop this blasted organization? That same organization which has taken captive the soul of my dead mother?” His voice was rising as he spoke where he was almost yelling at the end.

“YES!” Luna’s body shook as did her voice.

“Why?” He took another step forward and then put his arms out, “WHY? Why does it? Do I have to remind you that it was the Tree of Harmony that brought me here in the first place? Do I have to remind you that it was your own mother that gave me the ability to not only communicate but to have my original body back?”

Luna’s body bumped into the bed as she backed up as Emmit stepped up to her. Emmit’s eyes also showed hurt in them. Hurt in the accusations that were being hurled at him.

I didn’t know what to think.

“I...”

“You think that I’m so cruel to stage all of this? You think I have the want, much less the ability, to come here on my own will, create the organization, and to desecrate my mother’s soul?” His eyes held hurt of his own and righteous fury that she would even think such evil against him. But he surprised me again at what he did next.

Emmit grabbed Luna’s horn and put it against his chest and held his arms out glaring down at her. Luna flinched and closed her eyes tight. “If you honestly think that,” he quietly said, looking down to her, “Then go ahead. Shoot me. I have no magic or abilities in this form, you know that. Because I love both of you, more than my own-”

“Your Highness?” the door slammed open with a solar guard shouting in alarm.

It was the spark to ignite the tension in the room. It was like time was moving slowly. Luna screamed out and fired her horn against Emmit’s exposed chest. The force of Luna’s blast pushed him violently back into the guard standing behind him. There was only a flash of pain, both physical and mental, etched on his face for a split second which tore away at my heart. His body impacted the guard knocking the air out of them both before the two flew out the door impacting the far wall of the hallway. Both of them slumped to the floor like rag dolls. Neither were moving.

“Luna!?” calling out in shock I was able to move again when her magic faded out completely. Luna’s body was shaking and looking at what she’d done in total horror. Moving off the bed I quickly got to her side and took her head into my hooves, “That wasn’t necessary!”

Her eyes were wild and tearful filled with hurt and regret, “But…he...”

“EMMIT,” came the voices of Rarity and the rest of the girls as they came into view. All six of them looked down at Emmit and the guard in shock before looking back to us. The other single solar guard didn’t know what to do.

Twilight looked like she was going hysterical while muttering, “I’m sorry,” over and over as she looked over Emmit. Fluttershy was quickly at his other side looking at the injuries.

“What happened here?” AJ asked now looking between them.

“It appears that Luna attacked Emmit,” Rarity said in a soft and calm voice. Pinkie wasn’t bouncing and her hair was straight. The rest of the girls looking over Emmit and the other guard. Fluttershy was trying to convince the other guard to send for a medic. But what got a chill up and down my spine was the calm cold demeanor of Rarity as she walked into the room with a quiet, “And that is inexcusable. How DARE you attack Emmit!”

Luna’s head turned from my hooves to look over at Rarity, pointing a hoof to her, “He knew about us the whole time.”

“I know that,” Rarity said with a chill in her voice, “But that’s no excuse for what you did to him.” Her horn ignited brightly as she calmly walked forward. “He is a noble stallion.”

“He LIED!” Luna bit back igniting her own horn again.

What’s happening? How did it come to this? Twilight was freaking out, almost curling up into a ball, muttering “I’m sorry” over and over again. Pinkie was just looking on with a sad face and straight hair. AJ and Rainbow were trying their best to calm everypony down. While Fluttershy was quietly saying anything she could to help.

“YOU HURT MY EMMIT,” Rarity’s voice was almost as loud as the royal amplified voice. Her magic exploded around her, swirling like a violent tornado as jewels started to gather around her. I’ve seen her rage before in the Colosseum. This was different. This was a mare in love. A mare that would do anything to anypony that harmed him. Including a princess.

I had to stop this, but I found myself unable to move and just watch in total shock. As if my mind couldn’t handle what my eyes were telling me. Somepony...anypony...please stop this.

“STOP!” Fluttershy, of all ponies, and in a voice that I didn’t think she had, suddenly appeared between Rarity and my sister. “EVERYPONY STOP. RIGHT THIS INSTANT.” And to my surprise...they did. All eyes were on Fluttershy with surprise and awe.

“Fluttershy...dear-”

Rarity tried saying something but was interrupted by Fluttershy. She turned suddenly to Rarity and gave her the “Stare.” “Rarity,” she said calmly, but firmly, “You will calm down right now.”

Rarity gulped as her magic instantly disappeared in a soft whoosh and everything dropped to the floor.

“I thank thee-”

Luna tried saying something as well, but I watched while Fluttershy used her “Stare” on Luna as well, “You will be silent and listen Princess!” It worked on Luna as well. Luna’s body went stiff and her magic fizzled out. “Now then,” Fluttershy continued but in a more calm fashion, “Rarity, you and the rest of the girls will go with Emmit and the guard to the hospital. I will talk with them.”

For a second I thought that Rarity might not agree to it while Fluttershy looked at her friend. Seconds passed before Rarity huffed, “Fine.” She turned, flicking her mane, “I’ll go but Princess Luna will answer for what she’s done. And if she doesn’t want Emmit, then fine. I’ll gladly be his wife.”

What Rarity said as she left struck me. Not to mention the sudden jealousy that welled up inside me. I had a sudden appreciation, and a newfound respect, for Fluttershy as the girls left with Emmit and the guard.

“Now then,” Fluttershy cleared her throat cutely and turned to us, “Let’s talk about Emmit.”

^_^

(Emmit’s POV, a few hours later)

Thoughts of what happened ran through my mind when I woke up again. Lots of things were apparent right off as I laid there on a bed. Not bothering to open my eyes yet it was a safe bet that this was a hospital. If the scent of disinfectants, the sound of the heart monitor, and the feel of the bed was any indication that is. The heart monitor beeping kind of gave it away. While surprised at being alive, my heart wretched in my chest at the prospect of my relationship with Celestia and Luna was over. How could it not be? She shot me for crying out loud. Yeah, I was alive, but I felt like I just got ran over by a Mack truck. Both physically and mentally. My chest hurt like hell. And there was something worse. Much worse.

I had an itch on my nose.

What was bad about it was that both of my arms were weighed down by two furry somethings. One head was laying on my chest. I could feel the breath blowing softly against my skin and the gentle tickle of fur. Opening my right eye showed me Rarity was laying with me. We were definitely in a hospital room with another bed up against mine. Right now Rarity was curled up against me fast asleep with her head on my chest. Half her body was practically laying on top of me. The room was dark, but not dark enough that I couldn’t tell who was who. Opening my left eye showed me Pinkie was laying up against my other side with her head on my shoulder. She too had another bed moved up against mine.

After seeing Pinkie there was a split-second of something in the back of my mind before it vanished into the narthex. Pinkie was almost curled around my arm with a leg over my crotch area.

I took a glance around the room. It was a larger than average hospital room, but with everything you’d expect in it. Including Twilight, Rainbow, and AJ. All three asleep in their own plush chairs around the room. I didn’t see Fluttershy anywhere. The rest were here, why not her? Twilight was asleep in a chair under a window. And looking out the window told me it was still night time. No clue as to what time though.

My nose still itched dammit. Wiggling it didn’t help either. At least a light bed sheet covered me from the waist down. Of course, if Pinkie started moving her leg that might start to be a problem. The question was, what now? I didn’t see any I.V. drips, so hopefully, I wasn’t that bad off. A few broken ribs at least. Frankly, I’m surprised I lived through it. Tilting my head back I stared up at the bland ceiling lost in thought.

Thoughts of what was I going to do now was running through my mind. What about the shadow organization? And where was Fluttershy?

“Frosting,” Pinkie muttered quietly on my left where I just rolled my eyes about it. It’s no surprise that she would dream about something like that. However, it was a surprise when she started to lick the base of my neck. Little shivers went up and down my spine when she did. I tilted my head away, slowly and carefully, to either try to discourage her or to try to look at her but neither worked. I couldn’t see her that well and it didn’t discourage her any. Nope, it encouraged her to start sucking and licking my neck with, “Candy.” Then came her front legs wrapping around my neck.

What the hell Pinkie, you’re going to give me a hickey!

And my nose still itched.

Well this is just wonderful, isn’t it? Rarity practically laying on top of me, Pinkie on the other side giving me a hickey, I can’t move my arms, and my nose itches.

“I’m sorry,” Twilight mumbled quietly in her chair after shifting a little. She must have been hysterical after what happened. I don’t hate her mind you, but I’m not too happy with her either. We would have to talk later. Don’t know if I was looking forward to that or not.

Pinkie mumbled something that I couldn’t make out and sucked hard against my neck while her legs squeezed slightly. Yeah, I wasn’t looking forward to explaining this either.

Did I just hear snickering? I took a second to listen closely while looking around the room. Or as best I could with Pinkie latched onto my neck. A quiet snicker later showed me that Rainbow was awake in her chair against the wall at the foot of the bed. Her hooves were against her lips, eyes wide with mirth, and trying to hold in her laughter. By this time my eyes have gotten used to the dark and could see her quite well now. And because she could see me as well, as evident by her snickering at my situation, I mouthed the words “help me” to her.

Now it’s true that I could have tried moving my arms and jostling her awake. But that would have been embarrassing for the both of us. Plus they were too cute right now to wake up. Even Pinkie. Though I will take that confession to my grave.

Rainbow kept snickering as she got off her chair. Great, she’s coming to help me. Or so I thought. She surprised me by tip-hoofing her way over to the door, quietly opening it, quietly slipping through, and quietly shutting it behind her.

This is helping me Rainbow? I was even more confused when she returned, just as quietly, but this time with a lollipop in her mouth. She was holding it by the stick end in her teeth. She took it in the tips of a wing when she walked around to Pinkie’s side. She was biting her lower lip still holding in her amusement of this whole situation. And when her eyes went from Pinkie to me I had a nasty feeling that she was up to something.

Using the tip of her wing to hold the lollipop she moved it close to Pinkie’s head. Thankfully though, Pinkie stopped sucking on my neck and took a couple of sniffs. Her nose picked up the lollipop and her body followed where the nose was going. To the lollipop. Rainbow kept the candy just out of reach, so to lead Pinkie away from my neck.

I took this opportunity, as Pinkie’s body shifted around, to free that arm. By the time my arm was free and scratching my nose, Rainbow had led Pinkie down to my stomach. Oh finally scratching that itch felt soo good.

That good feeling vanished when my body was telling me that Rainbow was still leading Pinkie downward. My eyes went wide in shock and lifted my head to see. Pinkie had shifted her back to me, where her rump was a few inches away from my head, and still following the lollipop. My head could lift up just enough to see the wicked mischievous look Rainbow was giving me. Rainbow had climbed onto the bed, laid down on my legs, wiggled her eyes at me, and then slipped the lollipop under the sheet right next to my…

Oh hell no. My mind was stuck between WTF and You Wouldn’t Dare. With my face clearly showing each one as it passed through my mind.

Rainbow’s eyes softened to those bedroom eyes that girls everywhere, even in Equestria, are known for. Though this time Rainbow was biting her bottom lip for a different reason. And now that her wing was free they were rising in the air as she gently placed a hoof against me and started rubbing lightly. And as my body started responding to Rainbow’s rubs, which I thought my body was a traitor at this point, Pinkie’s head was slowly lowering my sheet down as she neared both not only me but the lollipop.

Another part of my mind was wondering something: Just how the hell is Pinkie still asleep during all of this? Here’s another secret I’ll take to my grave: A part of me, obviously, was enjoying it.

Rainbow’s eyes locked onto mine as I felt her hoof grip the sheet and slide it down to fully expose myself. She also took the lollipop as well. Which left me open for Pinkie to…

“Lollipop,” Pinkie muttered before her lips latched onto my head and started gently sucking while licking at the same time.

And my brain sputtered and died. While watching Pinkie treat my head like a lollipop, Rainbow’s head lowered and started slowly licking my shaft. Sensations floated my brain as it traveled up and down my spine making me watch with mixed emotions. At least my free hand had the right idea though. It reached out to Pinkie in a feeble attempt to pull her back. However, I could only reach the base of her neck and it was more rubbing and scratching than pulling or tugging. Which only encouraged Pinkie to suck at her lollipop a little harder, which wasn’t helping me any. All the while her body had shifted where her rump was pressing against the underside of my shoulder.

I’ll admit that all the licking, sucking, and breathing against me was driving me nuts. What guy wouldn’t it drive him nuts? And I’ll take that secret to my grave. Oh, but it wasn’t over yet. Because…

“WE HAVE AN EMERGENCY,” I heard from the doorway as it opened quickly, slamming against the wall thus waking everypony up, and the light flickering on to instantly blindingly bright. And in the span of two seconds all this happened: Fluttershy’s wings snapped open and she squeaked out a quiet, “Oh my,” Pinkie’s body jerked awake then stiffened with her lips still around my head, Rainbow stiffened also with her lips on my shaft, Rarity jerked awake and her eyes went wide as she spotted Pinkie and Rainbow giving out a quiet squeak of shock, and Twilight and AJ gasping at the sight in front of them as Twilight’s wings snapping open. While I laid my head back to stare up at the ceiling with my eyes wide and my left hand slowly gripping Pinkie’s fur to try to pull Pinkie away.

I know we’ll laugh at this years later. Right now though, not so much.

For a few seconds, there were just silent stares. That is until Pinkie unlatched herself with a soft pop and lifted her head with, “That is not a lollipop.”

Rarity’s voice was filled with shock and embarrassment when she said in a raised voice, “Pinkie!? I should say not!”

At my gentle urging Pinkie started scooting back away, but as she did Rainbow disagreed and said quickly, “Nope, it’s better!” And quickly took my whole member.

“RAINBOW!?” Rarity and Twilight said at the same time.

Twilight used her magic to grab Rainbow and pull her away but Rainbow protested by reaching out for me with all four legs whining, “No.”

Rarity sat up on her side of the bed using her magic to bring the sheet up and cover me again when Rainbow was pulled away. However, due to the previous administrations, I was sporting a nice tall tent. I didn’t want to look, so my eyes were fixated on the ceiling. However, my right arm was finally free again. Though a little late now.

“Just tell us what the emergency is Fluttershy, please? So we can get what we just saw out of our heads?” AJ’s voice wasn’t too steady as she asked it though.

Pinkie took a quick glance at me with a look that I wasn’t really sure if I was reading correctly as Fluttershy spoke, “Both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna has been ponynapped by the Shadow Organization!”

Next Chapter: Chapter Seventeen: The Shadow Organization Estimated time remaining: 4 Hours, 33 Minutes