Sup guys, Psyren here, and this time, I have a fic with me as the main character! So original right? Yeah well shut up. Anyways, here is the pairings I plan for this story (If it even gets this far...) Big MacXCheerilie, DerpyXDoctor, RainbowXSoarin', and maybe more.

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Life drags on...

11 Years Ago

'Why do you do nothing but video games!' A mother pegasai yelled at his son. 'What do you want with your life!?'

Day after day...

9 Years Ago

'You have perfect grades! You have the potential, but lack the motivation!' The teacher scolded her sleepy student.

Week after week...

4 Years Ago

'All of you have done well. Everyone here, congratulations on passing Flight School!' The principal said to everypony.

Year after year...

1 Year Ago

'I can't take it anymore!" A father yelled to his son. "Get the hell out! Your mother would be disappointed if she saw you now!'

Nothing ever changes. We are all condemned to a eternity of boredom and tedious activities. At least... that was what I thought.

My Little Pony, My Little Pony,
Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah....
My Little Pony,
I used to wonder what excitement could be,
(My Little Pony)
Then you all managed to surprise me!
Big triumphs,
Tons of fun,
A caring heart
Pushing hard,
Lending a hand,
It's an easy feat!
And love is what makes it all complete,
Yeah, My Little Pony,
I'm so glad you all choose to be my friends...

PRESENT DAY

It was a normal day for me. I got up, stretched my wings, ate, played a game of Modern Warmare 3, went to work (A part-time job at a muffin shop, about four blocks away from Sugar Cube Corner), went home, showered, played about 5 hours of Silent Mill, and Filly Fantasy XIII, then eat, and finally go to bed. Yep, a normal day... except for one thing.

It all began during lunch hour at the Muffin Shop. Like normal, I sat by myself eating bland food, considering which game to play when he got home, when suddenly, my manager, Jack Frosting, came into the break room. He was a gray earth pony who had a pastry bag cutie mark. Rumor has it that he once had a ownership dispute with the owners of Sugar Cube Corner.

"Attention everyone!" He yelled, his loud voice booming across the break room. "We have received a set of forms that I want each of you to fill out. Apparently, Princess Luna is looking for an apprentice. I want everyone to take one. If we can get a Princess' assistant to work here, our popularity will go through the roof! Any questions."

Everypony was filled with excitement, talking among themselves about these forms, each of them ignoring a rather important question. I rose my hoof lazily, but was quickly called upon. "Yes, Air?" Ugh... I hate being called by that name.

"So, isn't she only looking for unicorns? I mean aren't they the most talented of our races?" I asked with a tired deadpan. My question had earned me looks from the earth ponies and the pegasai, though the unicorns seemed rather flattered.

"Well..." Mr. Frosting began, "That is not entirely true. Everypony here has their own strength, and I'm sure the Princess would not ignore anypony's request."

With that, he shoved a form into my face and ran to the next pony. I sighed. Even though I had no chance of being accepted, there was no harm in filling it out. Or so I thought.

Four Days Later

Luna sighed tiredly. She had gotten so many bland and simply tediously similar letters, all praising her and of them bragging about her talents. She would have given up, but she recalled one of her guards speaking of 'a diamond in the rough.' He had explained that it meant she would find a truly great letter eventually. This had allowed her to power through three days worth of mail, though now, she was beginning to hit her breaking point.

Then she found an interesting form.

Name: Air Psyren. Dumb name, I know. My father misspelled 'Siren' on my birth certificate.
Age: 19
Race: Pegasus
Magical Power (If unicorn): If I was a unicorn, I'd be able to glow in the dark.
Wing Speed (If pegasus): I believe I was clocked at about 7.5 during my physical.
Speed(If earth pony): Faster than a hog, less stamina than an old stallion.
Occupation: I work part time at the Muffin Shop in Ponyville.
Special Talent: Video Games. I can beat 5 RPG's in 10 days
Dream(s) For the Future: None. If I had to choose, survive.
Why Do You Want to Be My Assistant: I don't really care. My boss made me. Plus it is a good way to kill time.
Likes: Video Games, an occasional Wonderbolt's show.
Dislikes: People who take pointless things too seriously.
Additional Comments: How did you last on the moon for a thousand years with nothing to do. If it was me, I'd have split my head open with a moon rock... Would that make me a moon pie?

Luna couldn't help but laugh at this letter. This was most defiantly a diamond in a pile of dirt. She'd have to look more into this 'Air Psyren' pony.

One Week Later

Another normal day for me. Or at least, that was what I thought when I first woke up. Mr. Frosting had once again barged into the break room, with an even bigger look of excitement than last time.

"None of you will believe what has happened! One of you have been chosen as an applicant to be Princess Luna's assistant!" I sighed in a bored tone. I was happy for whoever got chosen. If they DID become her assistant, then they'd bring in extra money for the store, which would mean an increase in our wages, which means more games for me. "Congratulations!" I wonder what games I should get for this week. "Air!" Maybe Marecraft. I hear that's goo- wait... what?

I look up to see all of my fellow coworkers staring at me. "Um..." I began, too shocked to speak naturally.

"You are to head to Canterlot ASAP. Don't worry about your job. I'll put you on paid vacation. I knew you could do well if you tried, Air. I am proud of you!" Mr. Frost patted me on the back as everyone else gave me dirty looks of pure jealousy. "There is a carriage waiting for you outside! Go on! Shoo!"

Soon I found myself standing before a magnificent carriage. It's remarkable features included green streamers and bedazzling jewels embedded all around it. It was surely a work of the most noble craftsmareship. The interior was a beautiful black leather with tiny white jewels on the ceiling, making it resemble the night sky. A royal guard stood outside of the carriage and offered a salute, "Welcome sir. We have been waiting for you. Please step inside. The Princess is waiting for you. I let out a sigh and walk into the dark carriage. It lifted off the ground as the pegasai who were pulling it took to the sky. The nighttime atmosphere of the carriage began to have it's effect and I soon fell asleep.

13 Hours later

"Sir! Wake up!"

I woke with a jolt and found myself face to face with one of Princess Luna's royal guards.

"We have arrived, sir." He said.

I stepped out of the carriage only to find it as dark outside as it was inside. I sighed for the umpteenth time that day as I was led to the palace.

Once inside I found myself joined by 3 other ponies, 2 unicorn and an earth pony. I recognized on of the unicorns as Trixie, from the Ursa Minor even a while back. Seems she's doing well, all things considered. The other unicorn, also blue, but with a gold mane, stood with an elegance, most likely a resident here at Canterlot. The earth pony was tan with a black mane. He was glittery with excitement, most likely a Luna fanboy. And then there's me, a pegasai who's laziness outshines even that off Rainbow Dash, but unlike her, I didn't have the skill to make up for it. With my green fur and tangled brown mane, it was painfully obvious that I didn't belong there.

Greetings! A loud voice boomed. I looked away from the other ponies to find my self graced by the Princess of the Night herself, Princess Luna! "I have received thousands of the forms I had sent out only a week before and of them, your four forms were of the highest caliber. Be proud as one of you shall be my chosen assistant!" The earth pony squealed in excitement.

I slowly rose my hoof. Everypony turned to me. "Um, yeah, hi. I'm Air Psyren, don't laugh.I'm pretty sure, you may have mistaken me for someone else. Maybe a form that was on top of mine?"

Princess Luna slowly approached me and stared me down. Sweet Celestia, she is SCARY! But then she smiled. She put a hoof on my shoulder and spoke with a soft tone, "Twas no mistake, Air Psyren, Your letter interested me from you name. I am interested in your capabilities."

"I can barely fly above average speed for 10 seconds. My stamina is equivalent to that of Lelouch Vi Equestria from that one TV show."

"I love that show!" Everyone turned to the elegant unicorn, who now looked a slight bit flustered.

"Just because a pegasus cannot fly, or a unicorn who is incapable of magic means they are useless. That is why I will not be testing your special skills. This will be a contest of socializing! Huzzah!" Luna cheered, still keeping an indoor voice. She walked back a few steps, and her voice boomed once again. "I will be taking a page out of my sister's book!" Luna walked back and forth in front of us. "For three months, I want you to be studying something that will be chosen for you at random."

"And what do you mean random?" Trixie asked.

Luna simply clopped her hooves and a guard came out with a hat. Luna used her magic to shake the hat and the took out 4 strips of paper and handed them to each of the ponies.

"You have got to be kidding me," I said with unenthusiasticly.

On my slip, 'Love'

"P-poverty!?" The elegant unicorn said with disbelief.

"I got kindness." Trixie said shrugging.

"I got freedom!" The earth pony cheered.

"I may as have gotten a rock" I said distastefully.

Luna let out a large booming laugh, "Hahaha! Fret not, my subjects. There is no negatives to losing. If anything, think of this as a game.

My ear twitched. A game, huh. I guess I could get into it if I treat it like that, but... how am I supposed to translate love into a game?

---

Oh lord. 1st chapter was done on a carton of ice cream and 1 night, Note to self: Get some rest and go on a walk :/

I decided to finish these two chapters before I published the story, that way, any fans I may get will be held off for a while.

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I lay silently in a bed that Princess Luna had supplied for me. It was an exhausting day. After Princess Luna had supplied us with our goals, we were then given a small yellow pass that had a strange, unique glow to them. According to the Princess, these were all access passes that would allow you to go anywhere for free. Quite useful, I guess.

I already knew what I planned on doing with the pass. I would first use it to get into the Wonderbolts show that was this week in Canterlot. I've never actually been to a full show, but I have seen one of them practicing when they were in Cloudsdale every once and a while, and from what I saw, it was impressive.

I envy those who could fly that well. The only way I can fly for a period of time is if I go at the same speed as walking. My low stamina had often caused me to be teased when I was in flight school. I managed to barely pass thanks to acing my written exams, but I'd always end up bombing my physical tests. Because of this, I could never get a real job. I was incapable of heavy lifting or moving clouds and adjusting the weather.

Eventually, my dad got fed up and kicked me out of the house. I can't blame him. I am a failure after all. My parents loved me and rose me well, yet I was little more than an unmotivated child who only worked to survive. Even now, I must admit, do I feel horrible for not being active. Though it's not really all my fault. I'm sure thee teachers could have made thee work much less tedious.

On that rather depressing thought, I shut my eyes and went to sleep.

The Next Day

A loud alarm clock woke me up. I smack it off with my hoof, and throw off the covers. I begin to drearily walk towards my bedroom door, only to run face first into a wall. It is at this point, I remembered I was not at my house. I was still at the Canterlot Palace. I stretched my legs and wondered into the large, looming halls. Seriously, the sheer size of the hallway was enough to make me feel dizzy. Outside of my door, a unicorn guard of Princess Luna's stood at attention.

"Hello, sir!" He said in a respectful tone. "I am here to take you wherever you wish for the day, sir."

I felt rather uneasy by him acting so formal. Still my own personal escort. That's pretty awesome. "Um, I was planning on seeing the Wonderbolts' show, but that isn't for another two days, so maybe-"

"I could show you where they like to go on their time off" The guard offers.

I considered it for a moment and I nodded. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to get an idea about what to do with this 'love' thing. "By the way," I asked lazily. "What's your name?"

The guard looked surprised. Apparently, he didn't expect someone to actually care about his name. "Um... My name is Beezlebub, sir."

"You can drop the 'sir' thing, dude. Just call me Psy." I said nonchalantly.

The guard looked uncomfortable and spoke up in a shaken voice, "Um, I'd rather not, sir."

"I'd rather you do." I retorted rather forcefully.

It seemed that Beezlebub was going to speak up to argue some more, but then he simply lowered his head in a bow, "Yes, Psy."

I gotta say, it felt awesome having this kind of power over someone. Maybe I should take this Luna apprenticeship thing more seriously.

After snapping out of that thought, I had Beezlebub lead me to 'my' carriage, and we took off.

After a few minutes, I was soon dropped of at a large, luxurious shopping mall. I stepped out in awe of the large building in front of me. Beezlebub handed me a bag of money, stating it was a gift from the princess. I took the bag, making sure to tip an unwilling Beezlebub, and walked into mall.

I was completely surround by shops and stalls of many varieties. The smell of the food court was enough to make my mouth water. There were jewelry shops where the jewels gleamed more than the sun. I was amazed and in awe. Never before have I ever seen such an amazing sight, not even on the tv.

I throw out a few coins at the food court and bought myself a muffin wrapped in hay bacon strips. By far the most deliciously organic thing I have ever tasted.

After eating I found myself wandering the mall, window shopping at the more interesting shops. Suddenly, I saw it on the floor above. An amazing shop that I never would've imagine would be in Canterlot. Game Cult, Equestria's largest video gaming store. For the first time in years I found myself giggling like a filly.

I looked around spotting a case of stairs leading to the next floor. I quickly began to run up it, only to find myself worn out about half way up. I sat down on the steps for a few minutes before continuing back up. Damned stamina.

I went into the store and smiled as I saw all of the newest video games stacked neatly on the shelf, including: The Elder Rolls, Red Dead Dedeption, and Call of Duty: Luna Ops. I was so giddy that I was giggling like a madmare. I had more than enough cash to buy all of the games I wanted and more. I began to take the games I wanted until my hoofs were full and began to trot over to the cashier when suddenly...

Bam!

I fell flat on my flank my games spilling everywhere. "Owowowow." I rub my sore flank as I slowly stood up as I looked up to tell off the person who had collided with me, my eyes were met with a beautiful golden haired pegasus mare with a fiery mane. Never before did he see a mare like her, yet... she seems oddly familiar.

"Oh, I am so sorry." She said in a sweet, genuine voice. She began to help me pick up my games.

"O-oh!" I stuttered. I was never good at talking to girls. I can barely carry a conversation with the cross-eyed pegasus at the Muffin Shop. "N-no! It was me who ran into you... um..."

"No it's okay..." The mare said. Suddenly she spotted one of my games, "Oh! You play Luna Ops, too?"

"U-um, yeah." I nodded.

"You can call me Fire," She said raising her hoof.

'A strange name,' I had thought to myself, though I have no place to talk. I rose my hoof and we shook. "My names Psyren," I said weakly.

"Psyren, huh? That is an interesting name. So you a fast flyer Psyren?" She questioned playfully.

I sweat dropped slightly and laughed weakly, "In a sense, I guess."

'For about 10 seconds anyway,' I added in my head.

"In a sense? Heh, you're a weird one." She laughed.

"Yeah, speaking of weird," I began. I could not shake this feeling, "Do I know you from somewhere? I swear you look familiar."

Fire rose her brow and then let out a loud laugh. "Oh, man! You are serious?"

"What?" It was now my turn to raise an eyebrow.

"Sorry, I was... just thinking of something else. Hey, if you want to hang out, I'll meet you over by the food court." Fire said before taking off, chuckling to herself.

What in sweet Celestia just happened? She offered to meet me at the food court. Isn't that like a date?

Before I could continue to ponder this, a large brown pegasus pushed me. "Hey!" I yelled as I flew back.

The pegasus stood over me, "You stay away from her, you got that?" Before I could respond, I felt his hoof stomp me in the side. I let out a sharp yelp, "She's mine!" He yelled. "All mine!" He let out a huff before walking away.

I slowly stood up, questioning what just happened, who was he, who is he to Fire, and why the Tartarus didn't any try to help me!?

Two Hour Later

I did not go to the food court. Instead I went to some of the other stores to waste time. That friend of hers nearly crushed me for simply talking to her, I do NOT want to take a chance on seeing what happens if I meet up with her. Shame though. She seemed like a real cool pon-

"Hey!" I turned around slowly, nearly freezing from hearing her voice. I saw her staring at me, her eyes not angry, but seemed to be filled with hurt. "Why'd you ditch me?" I looked down in shame.

"Your boyfriend didn't seem to appreciate me hanging out with you..." I muttered with a surprising amount of distaste.

Fire cocked an eyebrow, "Boyfriend?" she questioned. "I don't have a boyfriend."

"Then who was that brown pegasus who decided to knock me a new one?" I asked with confusion.

"I don't know any brown peg-" She stopped herself short. "Wait... oh for the love of Celestia..." She rubbed her temple, "If you are talking about who I think you are, he is nothing more than a stupid stalker."

"Stalker?" I inquired.

"Don't worry about him, worst you'll get was that." She told me. "He's obsessed with me. Ringing my doorbell late at night, sending me presents, ect."

"Doesn't that bug you?" I exclaimed with a look of disgust.

"Kinda," She began rubbing her head, "But there really isn't much I can do about it."

"Why deal with someone if they bug you? Tell them off! Send them away! Buck 'em in the groin!" I questioned frantically. I never felt so...so... so agitated!

And then she just began to laugh again, "Look, again don't worry. I know a lot of people like him. It's sorta like a job requirement." I stared quizzically at Fire. "Um... never mind. Seriously, the best way to deal with these guys is to ignore them."

"I guess..." I grumbled.

"Haha! You are so cute when you are annoyed." Fire teased. "Look, considering the fact that your too much of a scaredy cat to hang out with me, I'll be going home. I hope I see you around." She waved a hoof cheerfully.

As she turned to walk away, I felt something in my gut. Something was telling me not to let her leave just yet. Not like this. Then an idea popped into my head. "H-hey! Fire!" I blurted. She stopped walking and turned to me. "I-it was kinda rude of me to ditch you at the food court, and just as bad to make an assumption about you, so..." I paused. I felt a lump build up in my throat like it was trying to clog up my words. I swallowed forcing the lump and blurted out, "Would you like to go to the upcoming Wonderbolts show with me?" She had shown an interest in speed. Who is better at speed than the Wonderbolts?

Fire simply smiled and closed her eyes, She turned around and began to walk away. My ears lower in disappointment and I turn to walk away, when suddenly, "I'll meet you there." I turn my head to see Fire smiling at me. She gives a nod and then resumes walking away.

I suddenly notice that inside me are feelings I hadn't felt since I was young: excitement, joy, interest. I hold it all in.

"I thought I told you to stay away from her."

I froze in place. I slowly turn my head to see the brown stalker pegasus starring at me with fire in his eyes. I open my mouth to speak, but my voice fails me. "I'm going to make you regret ignoring me, punk." He rose a hoof, causing me to close my eyes to brace myself.

"Stop right there, criminal scum!" A voice boomed. I opened my eyes to find the stalker being shocked by magic from Beezlebub's horn.

"B-beezlebub." I said with disbelief. The stalker falls to his knees and begins to shake from the electricity surging through him.

"He'll be fine," Beezlebub told me. "I was wondering what was taking you so long, so I decided to come find you. Good thing I did."

"Th-thanks man..." I get less tense. "Wait, what do you mean 'long'?"

"You been here for about three hours, sir. I recall reading in your file that you don't care much for crowded places, so I-"

"I have a file?" I questioned.

"That's classified." He answered. "Now as I was saying-"

"Tell me."

"No."

"Tell me please?"

"Thank you for saying please, but I am not permitted to tell you classified information."

"Fine." I pretended to pout, but honestly I didn't care. It was more of the 'three hours ' part that interested me. Never when I am not playing video games does life seem to move so fast. Before it just dragged, but now... things were suddenly interesting. Plus...

I turned to the spazzing pony and smile. I looked back to Beezlebub and told him I wish to go back to the castle. I ate and then retired to my quarters early, not bothering to talk to anyone there, aside from asking Beezlebub to deliver ink and a quill to my room.

I sat before my desk, quill in mouth, dipped the quill in ink and began to write on the paper.

Dear Princess Luna,

This will be my first report to you on the power of love. I have no clue as to it's power, so until I discover it, I have decided to put together a series of letters, each explaining the different kinds of love that exist. In this letter, I will explain the form of love I witnessed on my first full day here in Canterlot. Stalker love.
Stalker love is a form of love that an individual holds towards another. It can be from the target of their affections being either pretty, famous, even to them showing kindness to stalker just once. These individuals often are possessive of the target of their affections, to the point where they will harass them and the target's loved ones. It is dangerous and unstable. Very low chance of a possible successful relationship.
This is Psyren, psyning off.

---

Thank you to everyone who sticks with me throughout this story. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do creating it. Well, next chapter will be of him observing Prince Blueblood's form of love. Oh sweet Celestia, spare us all.

Sup people, Psyren here with my latest chapter! Big shout out to Midi for becoming my editor and making my story more... presentable. Today we meet a good amount of characters and have our own musical number. Awesome,eh? Now let's begin

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"Dang it! Spammer! Hacker!" I yelled angrily. Suddenly the door flew open and Beelzebub ran into my room, horn glowing, ready to break any possible threats.

"What is going on sir? Intruder? Enemy? Criminal? Delin-" Beelzebub stopped talking and noticed me playing Luna Ops from my bed. "Um... sir... What have you been yelling about?"

I stare at him with a plain look. "This cheater... Arfman21... He's totally using an aim bot, NEWB!" I continued to yell at the screen.

Beelzebub gave a me quizzical look. "Wait..." He began, "Have you been in here this whole time, awake and playing... games?"

"Yeah, why?" I leave the game and looked towards my guard. I see him staring at me in disbelief.

"Sir... you mean to tell me you skipped breakfast and have been holed up in here playing video games all morning?" Apparently, to Beelzebub, doing such a thing was unbelievable. I decided at that time to have myself some fun.

"Actually," I began, barely able to hide a smile, "I've been playing since I retired to my room last night."

"All night!?" Beelzebub's jaw dropped.

"Yeah," I answered nonchalantly. "Occasionally, I'd do so for four days straight!"

Beelzebub's jaw seems to be hanging by a thread. I chuckle childishly.

"Sir," He began, "I don't think it is healthy to do such things like this. It's... it's.. just wrong."

I snickered, "I was kidding. I only woke up an hour ago."

Beelzebub looked annoyed; he didn't seem to appreciate me pranking him like that. "Either way," he began, "you missed breakfast. That IS the most important meal you know."

Reminds me of my mother. I roll my eyes and turn towards the screen. "Maybe you should relax. Come on, grab a controller. I could use a hoof in defeating the upcoming battalion."

"I'm sorry sir, but no," Beelzebub told me, "I just do not see the point in something childish such as... video games"

My eye twitched. "Okay, three things," I began with an annoyed tone, "One, I thought I told you to stop with the 'sir' thing. I'm not a 'sir' anything. Three. No..." I stop myself, "I mean two, never diss video games around me or I will snap your hoof."

Beelzebub took a step back, obviously surprised, as well as somewhat confused by the insult.

"And three, video games are a lifestyle, not a game. That's my cutie mark."

Beelzebub looked over at my flank. "Si- uh, I mean, Psyren, that is a turtle shell."

Indeed, my cutie mark is a red turtle shell from Mareio. Too bad Beelzebub was so illiterate to video games that he wouldn't understand, even if I tried explaining it.

"Regardless," I say with an obvious hint of annoyance, "Take a look at this."

I show him my medals, a scoring system of achievements that I earn throughout the games by doing certain objectives within certain parameters. All my games had all the medal's maxed out, with the exception of my newest games. I then switch to Luna Ops' leader boards, showing that I have already made it to the top of the board despite getting the game the day before.

"My skills are unrivaled!" I boast. "Over the web, I am known as the grand-master! King of all!" I leap up knocking down my controller. Suddenly my message screen pops up with multiple messages calling me a hacker and a cheater.

Beelzebub looked at me skeptically. "Indeed. So, what? You think you can be successful just by playing video games?"

"Of course," I responded causing Beelzebub to wince in irritation. "I've won multiple gaming contests just for the large money prizes. You see..."  For some strange odd reason music began to play around me. Weird. I always assumed that only mares had the ability to conjure music at random. Well, may as well take advantage of it. And so I sang.

"I'll be the talk of the web, the player on the go,
I'm the type of gamer everypony, everypony should know.
I'll be the one to watch, the best in the flow,
I'm the type of gamer everypony, everypony should know.

Becoming as popular as popular can be,
Making my mark, making my mark in ranked society.
I'm number one on the board, the star of the battle's flow, yeah,
I'm the type of gamer everypony, everypony should know.

See how they hang on every word that I speak.
My presence on their team is what they all seek.
I'm the crème of the crop, not just another John Doe,
I'm the type of gamer everypony, everypony should know.

At home, at the cafe, on a fancy yaht,
Connect to wi-fi to be the talk of all of Canterlot.
I'm the crème of the crop, not just another John Doe, yeah,
I'm the type of gamer everypony, everypony should know.

Because I'm the type of gamer,
Yes, I'm the type of gamer,
Yes, I'm the type of gamer everypony should know."

With that, I plopped back down and rose my controller, chuckling to myself. Singing spontaneously made me feel tingly. I can see why that pink pony did it so often.

"By the way s- Psyren," He corrected himself, "Tonight is a party at Prince Blueblood's mansion. Everyone in the castle, you included, are invited to go."

"Pass." I say as I start a new game. I am not going to go to some fancy party. I'd probably have to dress all fancy or something.

"Psyren-"

"Pass!" I interrupt again. My game has started. I shot a pegasai down with my gumball rifle.

"I do think you'd find it enjoyable," Beelzebub insisted.

I shot a unicorn with my Pie Cannon. I see in the corner of my eye that Beelzebub is getting frustrated from me ignoring him. I show no way of backing down as I toss a cake at a group of enemies, taking down the group via slash damage.

"Nearly everypony who's anypony in Canterlot attends," Beezlebub commented with a tone of feigned tolerance. I freeze. My character is pelted down in a storm of editable treats.

"Everypony?" I question, not looking directly at Beelzebub.

I could see him smile, almost evilly. "That is correct." Beelzebub confirmed. "Almost everyone important, from the rich to the beautiful, will be there."

Upon hearing beautiful, my mind flashed to the Pegasus I met yesterday, Fire. I don't know if it was her lively attitude, or that strange way she teased me, but either way, she made quite the impression on me.

"Okay, I'll bite. I'm interested. But I am not exactly what one would consider a noble pony looks like," I said. I show off my uncombed mane and knotted fur. I was dirty enough to make that fashionable unicorn from Ponyville faint.

"Don't worry," Beelzebub gave a demonic yet sweet smile, "That pass you obtained from Princess Luna can let you get the best makeover ever."

"'Makeover?'" My eye twitched. I really wasn't keen on the sound of that, but the way I see it, Beelzebub wouldn't let this go.

I sighed, hitting the power button on my game before standing up and stretching. Beelzebub let out a small chuckle and led me down to the dining room. He explained that he would take me to a pony name Photo Finish after we eat lunch. Apparently she was some famous fashion designer or something.

I looked around the dining room, seeing a large long table and a large amount of guards stationed around the room. At the end of the table was the blue unicorn with the golden mane, one of my competitors in the contest, picking at a salad.

I walk down to the table and take a seat about three seats away from her, that way I signified I wasn't planning on making conversation, but I wasn't trying to be rude about it at the same time.

Almost as soon as my flank hits the chair, a waiter appears and takes my order. I order a caffeinated sugar stick with a hay burger. Apparently that is not considered fine dining, as when I order it, both the waiter and the unicorn look slightly disturbed.

"What?" I asked plainly.

"Nothing... sir." The waiter promptly walked out to give my order to the chefs.

I look over at the unicorn. She had gone back to picking at her salad. I move my head back slightly, allowing me to see a piano on her flank. So she's skilled at piano, huh?

"May I help you?" She asked. She had a gentle, yet slightly snobbish voice.

"Huh?" I jumped slightly in surprise. I didn't expect her to notice me staring. "U-uhm." And there's the stutter. "I-I was just o-observing that you p-play the p-piano." Of all things annoying in this world, why am I so awkward?

"Indeed." She rose an eyebrow. "I played since I was a filly. I judge from the turtle shell that you are a herpetologist?"

A herpe-what? Sounded like some sort of disease a showpony would have. "Uh... y-yeah!" I responded, sweatdropping.

"Fasinating." She said. "That would explain your messy self. Animal scientists always need to get dirty." I nodded in agreement. "So do you only study the turtles or do you also specialize in any of the other creatures?"

"U-um... No!" I say. "I also s-study... uh... tortoises!"

"Tortoises?" She had a skeptical look on her face.

"Yeah!" I nodded. "And... uh a-armadillos, oh, AND hermit crabs!"

"Umm..." She seemed uncomfortable.

"I'm Psyren by the way!" I blurt out.

"Ice Queen... consider yourself charmed," she said introducing herself.

The waiter walked in and set my food in front of me. After that, we ate in silence.

I finished and walked outside, greeted by Beelzebub and the carriage. "Hello, Psyren!" Beelzebub saluted, "How was lunch?"

I looked Beelzebub straight in the eyes and respond simply, "Awkward."

One Hour Later...

We arrived at a large store filled to the brim with dresses and suits. Inside is a pony with a neat white mane, large pink glasses, and a glorious dress. She barks orders to her crew in a thick accent, which I think is Germaren.

"Okay, everypony! Lizzen up! Ve have a order in from many big clients! Zey all vant ze dresses from our last shoot! As such, I, Photo Finish, demand you all collect vhat you need and make ze dresses!" Photo Finish turned around as saw us. She almost seemed to cringe at the sight me. As if to shield her eyes she covered her sight towards me with her hood and talked to Beelzebub. I have to admit, I was a little insulted.

"And vhat does a Royal Guard need? Has von of ze princesses decided to take up my offer of a photo shoot?"

Beelzebub shook his head and responded, "I am afraid not ma'am. However, I do have a request."

Photo Finish rose an eyebrow. She was obviously intrigued.

Beelzebub lifted his hoof and pointed at me. "I would like you to make him presentable for the party that Prince Blueblood has arranged tonight."

"Ach!" Photo Finish seemed repulsed, "Do you realize vhat you are requesting? Zis... pony is a horrible, horrible example of vat a picture perfect pony is. Vhy vould I, Photo Finish, even care about such a lowly pony."

"I'm right here, you know," I said annoyed.

"This is one of the contestants on becoming Princess Luna's assistant." Beelzebub explained to her. I twitched in annoyance of being ignored.

"Really? Does zis von have a chance at vinning?" She asked.

Beelzebub gave a smirk, "There is always a chance." I cocked an eyebrow at Beelzebub. Did he really believe I had a chance at winning this contest? Heck, all I planned on doing was writing about observations I just happened to notice. Gotta say, I was a little touched. "Even an ant has a chance at defeating a dragon." Well screw you too.

Photo Finish chuckled, "Alright, fine. Unfortunately, I, Photo Finish, have a large vork load. So ze most I vill do is make him presentable and lend him a tux. In exchange, I vill expect you to convince ze princesses to consider a photo shoot."

"Agreed," Beelzebub negotiated. They shake hooves, and before I can speak up, I am suddenly grabbed by multiple mares.

They take me to a secluded room and suddenly I felt a lot of pain.

Fifty-Five Minutes Later...

"Urg..." I moan as I slowly stand up.

"Man, you are such a baby," one of the mares said, "Maybe if you kept your fur from tangling, this wouldn't have been so bad."

"Sh-shut up..." I muttered.

"And when we started working on your mane, you got all red," she said teasingly, "Even redder when we got to your wings. Not a bad size."

"Sh-shut up!" I was now so red, it seemed as if my fur had changed colors. I quickly ran out attempting to leave through the front, but was stopped by Beelzebub tripping me.

"No need to run and ruin your fur again," Beelzebub told me with a humorous tone. I don't know why, but the teasing felt worse coming from the guard.

"Photo Finish has given me a tuxedo for you. Would you like some hel-" Beelzebub began, before I snatched it away from him with my teeth.

"I can put it on myself."

Two and a Half Hours Later...

And so, there I was, neat as can be in a red tuxedo. Not gonna lie, I felt tacky. Beelzebub opened my carriage door and I found my self greeted by the sight of Prince Blueblood's mansion, roughly one tenth of the size of the castle. Still, it was an amazing place filled with lights and fancy outdoor catering.

Beelzebub and I walked to the main gate. While Beelzebub showed the security our invitations, I heard a voice.

"Well what do you know, a new face!"

I looked over and found myself facing two high class Unicorns. The one with the blue hair and tux I immediately recognized as Fancypants, a pony responsible for funding alot of my favorite game developers.

Behind him was the most beautiful mare I had ever seen. She was slim and somewhat tall; likely a bit older than me. Her body shape could be compared with Princess Luna, though, no offense to the princess, she had a more prominent... er, plot. Her eyes were purple, and she wore matching eyeshadow. Her cutie mark was a gold fleur-de-lis with two smaller, purple ones surrounding it. Her mane was a pearl-like pink with white streaks that seemed to glisten in the light. In all honesty, I felt my wings beginning to perk up, if you know what I mean.

I bow my head quickly for two reasons: one, Fancypants deserved respect for his influence in gaming community, and two, I would probably stutter like a madman if I looked directly at the girl.

"Hello, good chap," Fancypants bowed back, "If you don't mind me asking, what is your story? You don't seem to belong here."

"That obvious, huh?" I muttered.

"Oh, my apologies. I forgot to introduce myself. I am Fancypants. This beautiful mare," he pulled in the girl close to him, and suddenly I felt a slight tinge of jealousy, "Is my wife, Fleur."

"Charmed~" She said in a soothing voice.

"I am Air P-psyren." And there's the stutter.

"Air Psyren? Do you mean the pony who is one of Princess Luna's candidates?" Fancypants asked.

"Well, yeah I guess." I rubbed the back of my head. How did he know this? It'd only been two and a half days since I even got here!

"Well, Mr. Psyren, I would be most honored if you came over to my abode and had dinner with me and Fleur tomorrow," Fancypants asked.

"Well, actually," I began.

"He'd love too," Beelzebub said walking up from behind.

I shoot him a glare.

"Jolly good then!" Fancypants said before he and Fleur walked off, before I could even give my answer.

I look at Beelzebub with a look of annoyed disbelief. What was with him? He was being very pushy.

We entered the party, and I managed to ditch Beelzebub in the crowd. Now alone, I wander around, snatching food from the table and stuffing it in my mouth. It wasn't half bad, but it most certianally wasn't enough to fill me up.

I looked around at the various guests, but failed to locate Fire. She probably didn't come, or was simply not invited.

As I went to raid the punch bowl, I heard a loud symphony of music pla, and when I turned towards the music, I was greeted by the sight of a pony, around my height with a black tux and a wavy blond mane. I guessed from the attention he was getting, that he was Prince Blueblood.

"Hello everpony!" he said in a loud cocky voice. I already didn't like him. "I thank you all so much for attending my party. I am sure you each feel honored to be graced by my appearance and wish to kneel before my greatness. But do not, for I am simply one he-"

I burst out laughing at how ridiculous he sounded to me. Everyone stoped what they were doing and turned to me, Blueblood included. "And just who invited this tacky pony?" Blueblood questioned.

Everyone began to laugh, until suddenly I retorted, "You did, back when you invited everypony in the Canterlot Castle."

Everypony turned to Blueblood.

He glared at me, "And just who are you then, to be so important as to stay there? Because I don't believe beggars who hang outside of the palace count as denizens."

I smiled cockily and boasted, "I happen to be one of the ponies who were hoof chosen by Princess Luna herself to compete to be her assistant."

Everpony gasped, but Blueblood seemed unamused. That worried me. "So, you are just one of the ponies who got lucky and mooched off of the Princess to get what you want? Please, you are even worse then a beggar."

Okay, that one stung. Gloves are off now. I was going full immaturity mode now. "Yeah, well, your mother!"

"Wh-what? What did you say about my mother?" He yelled.

I slowly inch myself back to the catering table. "You heard me!"

"Are you stupid?" He asked, now furious.

I simply answered, "Nope~." I slid a full plate of caviar towards the edge of the table to where only half of it was hanging off.

"That was a rhetorical question, fool!"

"And I gave you a rhetorical answer," I said snottily. I looked over at Blueblood, getting his location precise.

"Oh, enough of this! GUARDS! Get this pony OUT OF MY PARTY!" Blueblood was fuming mad now. I noticed guards beginning to close in on me from the sides.

I yelled, "Rage quit!" and then, using all of the physics I learned from playing Angry Worms, I slammed my hoof on the plate with enough force to launch the caviar at Prince Blueblood. It was spectacular. He was too caught off guard to move, and found himself taking loads of caviar to his face. It splattered magnificently, the spray damage hitting all of the ponies close to him.

I burst out laughing as I look at grand display of my handiwork. I didn't even care when I was grabbed by his guards and thrown out of the party. I walked towards the carriage, my laughs slowly dying down. I opened the door to the carriage.

"I hope you are proud of yourself." I jumped back, letting out a slight shriek. Inside the carriage was Beelzebub, staring at me, his eyes red with disappointment.

I climbed in and and the carriage began to take off towards Canterlot Castle.

"He deserved it!" I explained to Beelzebub about Blueblood's attitude.

"Of coarse he deserved it," Beelzebub told me, sighing, "But you had no right to deal him his just deserts. You are an outsider to Canterlot."

"Nopony else there would've have stood up to him!" I argueed, "They were all too busy kissing his hooves!"

"That's because they know that if they do anything to him, they'll be just as bad as him!" Beelzebub yelled angrily. I got really scared. "If you kill a killer for revenge, you just become a killer yourself! I brought you to this party because I thought you'd be more mature about it. You mentioned that you wanted to become the gamer everypony would want to be, but today you acted like an arrogant child."

I looked down in depression; he was right. I was just as bad as Blueblood. I always thought myself as the best at what I did, and figured that that commanded confidence. Instead, I became arrogant. I became vain...

"I'm... sorry." I said weakly.

"Hm?" Beelzebub looked up at me. "What was that?"

I swallowed my pride and yelled, "I'm sorry! I was wrong! I shouldn't have acted like that! Because of me, all that work you did for me to get ready for the party was in vain! I'm... I'm just sorry okay!?" It took everything I had not to cry like a weak baby.

Beelzebub stared at me for a moment before he simply smiled warmly. "See, you can be mature." He clopped me on the shoulder, "And that is what makes you a better person than Prince Fishblood."

I looked up at Beelzebub with a shocked look on my face. I think this was the first time he made a real joke.

"It's okay to be immature every once in a while. The key is too know when to reel it in."

I close my eyes and smiled. "Beelzebub," I began.

He looked at me with confusion.

"Do we have a paper and quill?"

"We do, Psyren." He used his magic to levitate the item towards himself.

"Okay then. Beelzebub take a letter," I began. Beelzebub put the quill to the paper and began to write my words.

"Dear Princess Luna,

Today, I learned about vanity, or the love of oneself. Vanity seems to be the most lonely forms of love. Vain people are fools who find themselves to be what is most important. They are insensitive and mean. No one wants to be around them, due to their unfavorable personalities.

I also see this as one of the more self destructive forms of love, as once you age and gain wrinkles, you may begin to hate youself. Can you imagine? Waking up one day, looking into the mirror to see the one person you truly love, only to find that he has become as ugly on the outside as he is on the inside? I honestly find that horrifying and sad.

On that note, I bid you farewell.

Your canidate,
~Air Psyren

P.S. I would like to inform you that I plan on leaving back to Cloudsdale the day after the Wonderbolts competition. I feel that I am taking too much advantage of my time here when I should be working the job I was so blessed to be given.

Beelzebub rolled up the letter and hoofed it to me without a word.

When we finally returned the castle, I had him escort me to my room. I threw today's letter in with the other one in my drawer, then walked directly past my games and plopped my face down on the pillow, falling unconscious immediately.

---

Well, that is a wrap. Thanks again to Midi. Next time, DINNER WITH FANCYPANTS!

//-----------------------------
// Chapter: Loud Noises and Not-So Stuck Up Noses
// Author: Air Psyren
// Editor: Midi
//-----------------------------

"Move. Move! MOVE!" I practically screamed out a lung at Beelzebub.

"I can't," He responded calmly, "You are standing in my way. I can't mo-"

"Go the other way!" I yelled. I swear I was about to burst a blood vessel.

"I can't. If I do, I'll leave cover. I already took 26 shots to the chest. Who knows how much more I can ta-"

I screamed again, "Your health regenerates!"

"Does it?" He asked.

"YES!"

"Are you sure?"

"YES!"

"Okay. Leaving cov-"

Suddenly a pony swerved around the corner and tossed in a candy bomb. I stared at the bomb for a few moments. I turned to shout at Beelzebub to move, but then it exploded and different assortments of candy penetrated my body. As I fell, I spun enough to see that Beelzebub was caught by the blast as well. My eyes widened and then I went black.

GAME OVER

I cursed loudly before turning to Beelzebub, growling.

"It's not my fault," Beelzebub explained calmly, "You wouldn't get out of the way."

I never wanted to choke another pony more so than I did right then. I had figured that Beelzebub would be a great gamer if he tried, but because of him, my KD was 12 kills to 14 deaths. That's bad! I usually go 16 to 1.

Beelzebub sat down, his controller glowing with his magic. Beelzebub managed to get 1:24, only getting one kill by stealing my injured target.

I yelled in frustration.

Suddenly, the doors opened and another of Luna's guards, an earth pony, walked in. He had similar coloring to Beelzebub, only his eyes and mane were violet.

"Ah, hello Amon." Beelzebub greeted.

Amon spoke in a rather nasally voice, "Hello Beelzebub. It's nice to see you are bonding with the candidate, but I must ask that the two of you are more respectful and lower the volume. All of your yelling is disturbing some of the other guests."

My mind flashed to the other candidates. I knew one of them was Trixie, a magician who lost her home thanks to a bunch of dolts bringing an Ursa Minor to Ponyville. Moments like those make me so glad I live in the sky. The other was the golden mane, uh... Ice Queen! We didn't talk much, but when we did, I believe I made a fool of myself. Finally there was an orange earth pony. I didn't know her name, but from what little interactions from her I got, I believe she was a Luna fan girl. I can't help but wonder what these ponies' introduction forms looked like.

"Isn't there only 3 other guests here besides me?" I asked as I started another game, taking Beelzebub's controller away so he couldn't play. I needed to avenge myself.

"Two, actually." Amon stated. "Miss Trixie and her guard, Puloman have left to Ponyville."

That caught my attention. I figured that Trixie would have loved to live this life of luxury as long as ponily possible. Guess you can't always judge a pony by their personality.

"I see," Beelzebub bowed his head, "Please apologize to them for us. We shall keep it down."

"BUCK!" I yelled as I got headshot.

Beelzebub smacked me in the side, hushing me.

Amon rose an eyebrow and shrugged. "Sure..." Amon began to walk out, but then he stopped and pulled out a letter, "By the way, sir." He turned to me. I really wish these guards wouldn't call me sir. "A letter from Fancypants has arrived for you."

He tossed the letter towards Beelzebub, who caught it with his magic. Amon then proceeded to leave.

A few seconds after he left, I continued to play muttering, "He seemed like a jerk."

Beelzebub simply sighed and opened the letter and read it aloud for me.

"Dear Master Psyren,

"I must say that was quite a spectacle last night at the party and I do hope you are doing well. I would hate for you to be unable to attend dinner at my mansion. My wife and I are looking forward to having a chance to talk to you.

"Consolations,
"Fancypants"

"That's it?" I asked, sort of disappointed.

"Well, he is an important man," he replied, "Well, dinner here is typically around eight, so I suppose we should leave around--"

"Whoa there, buddy," I stopped him, "I have no intention on attending."

I swear, if I had a bit for every time I saw Beelzebub's jaw drop, I'd have enough money to permanently live in Canterlot.

"B-but si- Psyren!" Beelzebub started stumbling over his words. A rare sight indeed. "I figure you would jump at a chance to dine with Fancypants, considering he funded a lot of your favorite gaming companies."

"I'm actually surprised you know about that, Beelzebub." I chuckled a bit.

"It was on your file."

Again with the file. "What do you--"

"Never mind. Back on topic, why would you skip this chance?"

I sighed before turning to him, "Because there is no point."

"I'm sorry Psyren, but I am afraid I do not understand." Beelzebub explained.

"Simply put, Facypants only showed interest in me because I mentioned I was staying here at the castle. He only believes that if I become Princess Luna's assistant, I'll be another life-line to use when he needs it." I take a breathe before continuing. "And I won't go because doing so will only make him hope more that I become the assistant, which I do not see myself achieving."

Beelzebub rose an eyebrow. "And why is that?" He asked quizzically.

"One, I am lazy; two, I have no motivation; and three, I am a weakling. It is near impossible for me to succeed." I sighed before rearranging my self on the floor for comfort.

"Psyren--"

"No," I interrupted, "I'm not going to do something so troublesome."

Beelzebub sighed. "Why do you condemn yourself to defeat before you even fight?"

"Because it makes life easier," I told him. I fiddle around in the game before moving my character forward, Around the corner a camper slashed me with a candy cane, killing me instantly. I yell a large arsenal of curses that would make Princess Celestia faint.

Amon throws the doors open again. "What did I say about making such noise?" He talked in a low and rather menacing growl. Apparently the tone was enough to get Beelzebub to stand ready. "You are disturbing Miss Ice Queen greatly."

Ugh. It would be her. I had heard that ponies from Canterlot were stuck up and snotty, but I never knew that they were so spoiled that they can't take a little noise.

"Oh, yes," I said, not even hiding my sarcasm, "I promise I won't yell anymore."

Amon growled a bit before disappearing through a door. After he left, I drop my controller and walk over to my suitcase. "I won't yell anymore..." I grumbled. I pull out a strange device I was given at work.

This pony, you see, lived with one of my coworkers, Bon-Bon. She had this strange belief in creatures called humans and had a friend of her's craft this strange device of a human's 'hand', or well three of them. When you shook them,they made a lot of noise.

Anyways, this pony went on about a rant on why humans were real, but while most people left in annoyance I stayed and 'listened' (I was actually thinking of my newest video game.). This touched her and she gave me the device in thanks.

I took the noise maker in my mouth and began to walk towards the door earning a quizzical look from Beelzebub. Chances are if he knew what it was, he'd have taken it from me. It was time I had taught this 'Queen' a lesson. I began to shake the noise maker and began to trot up and down the hallway.

Within seconds, Amon had burst out of Queenie's room and tackled me to the ground, the noise maker spitting out of my mouth and spiraling across the floor. "Are you trying to upset the lady!?"

"Yeah! I am!" I retorted angrily, "Nothing ticks me off more than rich little twats who take such small things like noises seriously!"

For a second I thought Amon would have hit me. Probably would have if Beelzebub wasn't behind him, ready to defend if necessary. "You arrogant little..." Amon grit his teeth. He glared over to Beelzebub, who suddenly relaxed. Suddenly Amon bit my wing (which frickin' hurt) and pulled me into Ice Queen's room.

The room was surprisingly smaller than mine. It has a single bed with light blue sheets with a vanity mirror to the side. However I did not see Ice Queen until Amon pointed her out. What I saw stung like a knife.

Ice was in the farthest, most dark corner of the room. Shaking rapidly, her hooves rested over her head, eyes wide and heavy breathing.

"Ice Queen is a phonophobe. She hates loud noises." Amon said bitterly, "Whenever she hears loud noises, she gets uncomfortable. If they continue, she begins to lose reason and panics. I'm sure you didn't notice it, being the selfish pony you are, but Ice Queen was very uncomfortable when you all first met Princess Luna."

Each word hit me in the gut. I had nothing to say to this. I made the unreasonable assumption that she was just another stuck up, selfish pony. It turned out that I was the selfish one. I felt sick.

"If you make anymore loud noise, I will consider it a direct attack on the lady. Then I will be forced to take even more personal action. Now. Get. Out."

I could sense his hostility and quickly went out of the room. Outside of the door, I stepped on the noise-maker. I stomped on it immediately, crushing it into pieces.

Much Later...

So why did I end up accepting Fancypants invitation? I just wanted an excuse to leave the castle. After my stupid mistake, I had felt just horrible. I could feel Beelzebub just staring daggers of disappointment into me. I couldn't even play my games or enjoy them. Everything I seemed to do here usually ended with me making a donkey out of myself. I really do not belong here in Canterlot.

Beelzebub said nothing to me on the way to Fancypants, and that just made me feel all the more bad. I would be much more comfortable if he just scolded me like he did with the Prince Blueblood incident.

After we arrived, I was directed into the house by some of Fancypants' guards. Fancypants' house was a bit bigger than Blueblood's, and even had a pool in the front yard.

Beelzebub stayed behind with the carriage, leaving me all alone. Honestly I didn't like that. I may have only known him for about three days, but Beelzebub has that sort of parental quality to him; the kind you hate disappointing. I stepped out of the carriage and looked back to see Beezlebub was planning on staying in the carriage. For the first time since I arrived in Canterlot... hell, the first time probably in years, I felt alone.

I walked to the gate of the mansion and was let in by two Earth Pony guards who stepped aside as soon as I gave my name. The inside of the mansion was spotless, shining with gold plating on the walls and ceiling. The floor was crafted out of a sweet smelling mahogany. Very classy.

"Air Psyren, I presume?" a stern voice called out, startling me.

I turned left and saw a servant looking down on me from the top of a staircase. I let out a rather meek, "Yes."

"Good, come. I shall show you to the dining room." The pony walked down the stairs and wandered into another room, where I quickly followed.

The dining room was surprisingly small. It was about half the size of my bedroom so it really didn't seem much like a dining room as much as a storage room. However, it was indeed the dining room as Fancypants and Fleur were both sitting around the table with plates of food set out.

"Ah, Mister Psyren! How good it is that you could make it!" Fancypants said, tipping his head.

Fleur gave me a happy nod, which probably made me go red...

I took a seat across from Fleur, with Fancypants directly to my right. The food in front of me surprised me. It was like a typical meal I would have at home. I didn't see any orderves or caviar (thank goodness). There was no specialty hand made food. Just... my kind of food. Hay burgers, fries, corn.

Fancypants apparently picked up on my confusion as he quickly addressed the meal. "Ah, yes. I grew quite fond of your kind of food shortly after meeting one of the Apple Family. With your visit I believed now would be the best time to have it." He sounded proud, yet not arrogant. He had a certain charm I could not place my hoof on.

I thought back and remembered some manners, and respond polity, "Thank you for your generosity."

"Not a problem, my good fellow! Please! Eat and enjoy!" he said.

I nodded and tried to eat my food as properly as possible.

Then Fancypants spoke up again. "By the way, how do you believe you will fare in the contest?"

Here we go. I silently sighed in my head before looking over to Fancypants. I didn't butter my words. "Not well."

Fancypants rose an eyebrow. "Oh? And why, may I ask, is that?"

"I was assigned to report on love," I responded without skipping a beat. I paused to take a bite of food. "But I don't believe it's possible for a simple, rather weak, pegasus like me becoming the assistant of someone as great as the princess. Honestly, I think the people who have the best chances are Ice Queen or that Trixie unicorn."

"Bah!" Fancypants threw a hoof out in defiance. "Please. A noise-sensitive noble and a washed up mage? I refuse to see them capable of measuring up to someone like Princess Luna."

I rose an eyebrow. "And yet, you see me as one who can?"

Fancypants seemed to scoff, "Of course not. She's a princess. But I do believe you have the ability to become close to doing so."

"I'm afraid I don't-"

"You remind him of himself when he was younger." Fleur interrupted me.

I stared at her quizzically.

"It's true," she shrugged.

"Yes, while I did have a good bit of money growing up, I was nowhere near as influential as I am now. In fact, I kept to myself. Then, however, I began to realize that connections can lead to success." Fancypants explained.

"Connections?" I asked tilting my head.

"Correct!" he said. "Imagine... a game of Marenopoly. You essentially start out with nothing more than money in your wallet and the piece on the board. But! As you buy property you gain new connections. Building on top of one another will make you more powerful, if you will."

"And you think I can become... powerful." I asked skeptically. Surely it couldn't be that simple.

"Think of it like this. Your goal is to learn about love, yes? Well, how about you start out simple, observe the minor love of the people around you, then focus on the bigger picture when you feel ready. Use what you've learned previously to aid you. Make connections with your experiences, with the people you meet, and the knowledge you acquire."

I listened to Fancypants silently, taking his words in. I could make connections... but can I even do that? I voiced my concern to Fancypants and Fleur just laughed.

"Oh please, you can't say you haven't at least made one connection while you were here. Think. A friend? An acquaintance?"

A friend. My mind flashed to Beelzebub. I've only know him for a few days, and he honestly pissed me off sometimes, but... through thick and thin, he stood by me, scolded and taught me things that not even my father would normally bother to teach me. He was stern but gentle... And now he's furious with me...

"What happens if you break a connection?" I asked quietly, staring at me food.

Fancypants laughed, "Please, my boy! If it's a true connection, they are always salvageable!"

"True connection?"

"A connection that can always be repaired. For example, going back to Marenopoly, in order to pay of a debt you can sell off a property, hence breaking the connection. But if you play smart and know what to do, you can regain that connection. Same if it's a friend. If it's a true friend, chances are, they are just mad and waiting for an apology."

"An apology... That can't always work can it?"

"It can if it's a true connection. Of course there are more ways to apologize rather than saying sorry. In fact, some require and different form." Fancypants went back to eating as Fleur took over explaining,

"Think of a bird flying into a window. Now normally the bird would be extremely mad at the owner of the house for having such a clean window. It won't accept a sorry. However, if you nurse it back to health, the bird will forgive you, even returning to visit occasionally."

Weirdest analogy I've ever heard.

I taok these words to heart and closed my eyes, thinking of how to fix things. Then wires connect in my head and I smile. "Thanks for the food, Mr-"

"Please, just Fancypants," he insists.

I respond accordingly, "Thanks for the food, Fancypants." I quickly bow my head to him and Fleur. "I need to leave now."

"I understand!" he laughed. "Oh, and Psyren?"

I looked at Fancypants as I stood.

"I'm not sure if you realize this, but within this time, you've made two new connections."

I stare blankly as I look back and forth between Fancypants and Fleur. I then break into a small chuckle. "Yeah... I guess I have..."

I turn around and walk out with a small smile on my face. The carriage was sitting outside waiting for me. I step inside to see Beelzebub still there, just as stern as before. "Hello, sir."

So much for calling me Psyren. "Hello, Beelzebub," I said bowing my head.

"I suppose you'd like to go home?" He asked.

"Actually, I'd like to go get something from the train station" I told him with confidence.

He raised an eyebrow.

Much Later...

I leaped out of the carriage, three tickets in mouth. I trotted into the castle, Beelzebub following behind with a quizzical look.

"Why did you get three tickets to Ponyville?" he asked me.

I told him he had to wait and see.

I walked through the halls and made my way to Ice Queen's room. Amon stood outside and stopped me from entering.

"No," he said.

"Yes!" I said through my teeth.

Amon spread him self, blocking the door.

"Haven't you caused enough trouble?" Amon snarled.

"Yeah..." I smirked, "I have!" I looked back and saw Beelzebub trying to process what the heck was going on. Couldn't blame him; even I didn't like my idea, especially since it involved getting past a ROYAL GUARD, who ws essentially better than me in every way. Only advantage: flying. Problem: we're indoors, so, not enough room to be mobile. Other problem: I got the stamina of a one legged mare doing a marathon. I needed a plan, a way to get past him...

Screw it.

"HRAGH!" I lifted of the ground and propelled myself at Amon with my wind speed backing my weight. Unfortunately, Amon stood on his hind legs for a moment and smacked me away. I hit the ground hard and cough as a burning sensation runs through my body. He was as strong as he looked! The tickets flew from my mouth towards Beelzebub.

I forced myself up, "Move! I have something for Icy," I groaned.

"Icy?" Amon's face hardened. "How dare you have the gall to say her name in such a friendly manner! After what you did-"

"Enough!" A magic bubble surrounded me and Amon. Beelzebub walked towards us shaking his head. "While he is a bit reckless, I believe that he should be given a chance."

"Another chance?" Amon broke out of the bubble simply by headbutting it. "After what he did, why should I--"

"Quiet!" Beelzebub hissed, "I'm not sure if you realize this, but your yelling may be causing dicomfort to the one you are trying to protect!"

Amon grit his teeth before turning towards me. I flinched bad enough that it would have gotten made fun of back at Flight School. "You have three minutes. If you do anything to cause her discomfort then may Celestia have mercy on your soul!"

I gulped as Amon stepped out of the way and allowed me to enter. I was once again in Ice Queen's chambers and she sat at a desk surrounded by crumpled papers, probably trying to make progress on her 'poverty' project.

I cleared my throat to announce my presence. I meant for it to sound more... professional, but it sounded like I was coughing up a loogie.

Ice Queen jumped at my strange, monstrous coughing noise and turned to me. "Oh... it's you." She didn't seem angry to see me. In fact, she mostly seemed really uncomfortable. "Do-do you need something?"

"Well... I felt bad about what happened earlier today, so..." I began. Suddenly I realized something. "Uh... I'll be right back."

I ran out of the room leaving Ice Queen with a bewildered look. Outside Beelzebub sat with Amon. I saw the tickets floating and quickly snatched them from Beelzebub's magic. Beelzebub rose an eyebrow but stayed silent as I ran back into the room.

I dropped a ticket on Ice Queen's floor. "And what is that?" she asked.

"It's a ticket," I snarked.

"I can see that. I mean, what for?"

"For a train."

"A train... where?" Ice Queen began to get slightly frustrated.

"A train to Ponyville," I said, deciding to stop messing with her.

"And why did you give this to me? You realize we are competitor's right?" she asked skeptically.

I scoffed, as if to reject such a truth. "Perhaps, but hey, I felt sorta bad about what happened earlier today so I decided to make it up to you."

"But-"

"Just take them," I insisted, "I highly doubt you'll witness many cases of poverty if you stay here in Canterlot."

"I guess I see your point..." she muttered.

"Good! Then away I go! Best of luck to you, Icy!"

"Icy?" She rose an eyebrow at the nickname, before she began to bust her gut laughing. "Very well, I shall accept your gift. Feel humbled by my graitude."

Now it was my turn to laugh. It's funny, I always believed that Canterlot ponies were stuck up and spoiled. And while that is true for some, others are genuinly nice people, even if they don't want to show it.

"Good! In two days is our train!" I told her.

"Wait... two days?" she asked.

"Yep, the day after the Wonderbolts show tomorrow." I explained.

"And you're leaving Canterlot, too?" she asked.

"I have a job, ya know." I chuckled.

"Ah, yes. The turtles, I forgot."

Oh, sweet Celestia. Does she actually believe I study turtles? Well, it would be rude of me to shoot down her beliefs, so I give some parting words and take my leave.

As I opened the doors, Amon fell forward. Apparently, he had been listening through the door. He let out an embarrassed cough and brushed himself off before giving me a nod and walking into her quarters.

I looked towards Beelzebub, who now had a small smile on his face.

As we walked towards my room, he asked me, "Okay, so you bought a ticket for Ice Queen in order to make up for what happened earlier today... so why the other two tickets?"

"Elementary, my dear Beelzebub," I responded cooly, "One of the tickets is for me as well."

"And what of the third?" he asked.

"That ones for you!"

"Eh?" Beelzebub stopped walking and stared at me.

I jumped to turn around and smirked at him, "I figured you're going to stick with me for this contest, right?" I asked,"I may as well take care of your arrangements as well!"

"Well..." he began, "as a royal guard, I can get on the train for free if it's official businessmen. And since I'm guarding you, it counts as such."

"So... I have a spare ticket..."

"Yep."

I sighed as I lay my head on the wall. So much for being an amazingly nice person. Now I'm just a nice guy.

"Still thanks for the offer," Beelzebub responded, "It will be my honor to continue to serve you through this contest."

"..." I smiled inside and reflected upon Fancypants' words. "Hey, Beelzebub. Pen and paper, please."

Beezlebub lifted the utensils and began to write my message:

Dear Princess Luna,

Today I learned jack shit about love.

"Sir!" He cried after realizing what he had just wrote.

"Sorry, sorry! Cross it off!"

nothing
Today I learned jack shit about love.

However, I did learn about connections and how they influence everyday life.

Connections bind us together, our likes, our differences, our bonds. Connections are important and should be treasured more than anything, even love. For without connections, we are nothing but empty shells. Love couldn't exist without it. Not even happiness.

I am the type of pony who likes to be left alone. However, no pony can stand to ever be alone. That is why we have connections.

Your (most likely not) possible assistant,

Air Psyren

With that, I went over to my bed. I was tired and worn out.

Beelzebub rolled up my letter and had it float to his side.

"'Night Beelzebub." I called to him.

"Good night... Psyren." He walked out, shutting off the lights and closing the door.

I felt all fuzzy inside from my happiness.

---

Thank god this is finally done. Thank you Midi for your wonderful assistance as well as a thanks to my faithful readers. I hope this story lives up to your expectations. So up next, I will have a Dream chapter. Also: Some may notice the break of third person in the 1st chapter with Luna. Best explanation. It was a dream. Now who should he give the final train ticket to? After the dream we get to meet the Wonderbolts and the Pegasus of the Mane Six. See you then. This is Air Psyren psyning off.