Into the Heart of Shadows (Queen Umbra) by Knifey -- HIATUS

>You are the Queen of Shadows, the Shadow Mare, Queen Umbra herself.
>Unfortunately, you are now 'former' Queen of the Crystal Kingdom, thanks to a recent battle with Celestia's ponies.
>Outmatched by the ponies you were obliterated, but even so, you survived.
>As a shadow of your former self, but you must act quickly if you are to survive.
>Hidden deep inside an icy cave, you find a crystal shard.
>Soon you are cocooned within the crystal shard, which in turn grows as you began to regenerate yourself.
>Ba-thump.
>Your heart beats.
>Thinking and focusing on your shape, the quality and feel of your limbs, the strength of your bones, the density of your muscles and the thickness of your fur.
>Ba-thump.
>The process is long and painful, and it consumes much of your magic.
>Over many nights, the memories of your defeat play in your mind.
"Princess Celestia..."
>Over and over again you were defeated in your memories.
"Princess... Twilight..."
>You vow to take revenge over time again and again.
>As you finish regenerating yourself, you open your eyes for the first time.
>The crystal shell shatters and spills its contents out into the cave, leaving you cold, naked and wet.
>Raising a hoof, you inspect your work.
"Not too bad." You speak for the first time and you're surprised at how much higher pitch you sound.
>Using your magic against the crystal wall you turn the surface into a reflective mirror.
>You sweep back your drizzled black mane.
>Before you stands a dark grey mare with a long, curvy black mane.
"I might have overdone my hair though."
>Seeing yourself without your armour makes you feel… naked.
>With a simple material conversion spell, you channel the ice crystals around you into a blue cloak.
"That should suffice for now."
>Well, now is not the time for such trivial matters.
>Now is the time to attack.
>They will pay for what they've done to you.

>And what will you do?
>To strike at the very heart of the enemy kingdom, Canterlot Castle.
>They wouldn't have expected you to have survived that last attack, and they won't expect you to mount a sneak attack.
>It's nightfall.
>Using your magic, you slip back into the shadows and begin your descent upon Canterlot.
>The journey is quick despite travelling among the shadows.
>Reaching the outer gates of Canterlot, you see several of Celestia's Royal Guards.
>Nothing that you can't handle, but this was a sneaking mission.
>The walls are well lit, and you sense a magical barrier emanating from them.
>Must've been Shining Armor's work.
>Still, there's no way of sneaking in without giving yourself away unless…
>"Hurry up, I'm going to be late!"
>A fat unicorn stallion is heaving heavily as he trots past.
>You could smell his stench from a mile away.
>His coat was lined with garish, clashing jewels of different colours.
"Disgusting, pathetic foal." You mutter under your breath.
>Behind him you spot a mare, most likely his servant dragging a big heavy chest.
>"It'd be much easier if you lent a hoof!" She barked back.
>"Do you expect me to work like some lowly earth pony!?" He stands on his hind legs to emphasis his status. "Besides, I have a very important meeting to attend to."
>While he bickers, you knew exactly what to do.
>"I've had enough of you wasting our time. Chop chop! Let's go." The stallion turned and trotted towards the guards with his head held high.
>As the stallion went underneath the gate, the barrier sprang to life and wrapped the unicorn in a magic field.
>"HALT CRIMINAL SCUM!"
>The guards immediately hold the pony up at spear point.
>"What is the meaning of all this!?"
>"Captain, there doesn't seem to be any magical aura coming off him." A unicorn guard spoke.
>"Check him over, I want to make sure he doesn't have anything dangerous on him. Take off every jewel and check them if you have to."
>"HOW DARE YOU-" Just before he can finish the guards take him down.
>Perfect.
>With all the commotion, you detach yourself from his shadow and sneak past the gates.
>Canterlot.
>The shining city.
>Slithering up against a wall, you partially emerge from the shadows to survey the busy night life.
>The streets are brightly lit and are full of ponies.
>High class ponies trot around with their heads held high, sporting all sorts of hats.
"What decadence."
>Just outside of the alleyway, you spy a certain white unicorn standing outside some clothes store.
>"Oh darling it will just be fabulous!" You hear her say.
>You recognise that voice easily enough.
>A grin slowly appears across your muzzle.
"Perhaps she could be of use to me."
>You fully emerge from the shadows, pulling on your hood and veil, and begin to walk towards the white unicorn.
>"Well don't you worry about the outfits. I'll be sure to have them done by this weekend. I do hope you have a wonderful time at the party. Ta-tah darling!" She waves her goodbyes and turns down and alleyway up ahead.
>You follow her.
>This should be easy.
>You step into a puddle which gives you away.
>The white unicorn suddenly turns and faces you.
>"AAH!"

>Your prey has only just noticed but it is all too late.
>Shadow tentacles appear from the shadows around the white unicorn.
>Like hungry creatures wriggle and wrap themselves around the poor mare.
>She tries to use magic to pull herself free but more black tentacles wrap themselves around her.
>"HEL-" Her voice is silenced by a one lone vine.
"Hello the Element of Generosity."
>"Mmpfh!?"
"How thoughtless of me."
>With a flick of your horn, the entangled mass of black tentacles squirm and presents Rarity towards you.
>Her pupils shrank when she saw you.
>You approached her with slow, paced steps until you were right in front of her.
>You could see her sweat, you could smell her fear.
>Good.
>Rarity's eyes shifts as you move to take something out of your cloak.
>A black and red crystal shard smaller than the size of a bit.
>Rarity's stares at the stone.
"Here."
>A vein emerges from beneath your cloak upon which you hand the shard to.
>It easily grips it and faces it towards Rarity.
>This is the bit where she squirms like crazy.
>… but she is unable to do anything about it.
>It moves towards her, aiming at her mouth.
"This will be slightly unpleasant, but don't worry, you won't remember this."
>It slithers itself towards her muzzle, facing resistance at her lips.
"The less you fight this, the easier it will be."
>A tentacle tightens its grip around her neck, forcing her to gasp.
> The other takes advantage and jams the shard into her mouth.
"MMMHPF!" She cries.
>Slowly and surely, the tentacle goes deeper into her mouth.
>The black tentacles tighten as the white mare tries to struggle free to no avail.
>With a final struggle, it pushes itself deep down her throat.
>Now it's done, the shard is in place.
>You can feel it attach itself inside of her, spreading deep inside of her.
>Soon after the shadows consume her.

>You are Rarity.
>What were you just doing?
>You're standing in a dark alleyway… on your way back home…?
>Yes, that was it.
>Your throat is dry and when you try and swallow you find it painful.
>Walk it off, Rarity, you're just having one of those moments again.
>But then why does this all feel like déjà vu?
>A splash behind you gives you a jump, forcing you to scream at your burly, muscle brained assailant.
>You ready your magic to blast away the brute but...
>The figure freezes.
>Something in your gut is wrong.
>Something telling you that you should be afraid of this mare.
>The light coming off your magic illuminates a pair of beautiful eyes between the cloak and veil.
"Oh…"
>Instead of your worst fears, it's just a mare.
>Upon closer inspection, she's taller than your typical mare.
>And the cloak and veil both have such a beautiful pattern…
>Oh the craftsmanship of her cloak, those stitches and folds!
>And the quality of her veil, it looks like patterns made from silk!
>She must be an exotic mare!
>Some very important somepony to be able to wear such quality items!
"Oh!" You gasp. "Please forgive me, you surprised me. My name is Rarity. Fashionista. To what do I owe the pleasure...?"
>"'Pyrite.'"
"Pyrite...? It's such a pleasure meeting you."
>What a peculiar name.
>She's looking intently at you.
"I was just meeting with a client, you see I have a wonderful boutique back in Ponyville."
>"I have heard. I have some, business, to attend to with you."
"Oh? I'm very flattered. If I may say so, your cloak is very beautiful, as is your veil. I haven't seen such a fashionable item like that from around here. May I ask, whereabouts have you travelled from?"
>The veiled pony seemed to ponder for a bit before speaking.
>"Somewhere far away, where the nights are cold."
>She must've come from across the ocean.
>From some unheard of continent.
"Would you like to follow me to a place where we can talk in leisure?"
>"I have a place in mind."
"Oh… You do?
>"Please, follow me."
>You look on as the mysterious mare walks past you towards another alleyway.
>What was that beautiful aroma, it smelt like ice crystal flowers?
>A bouquet of sweet flowers, with a tinge of cold winter breeze and salt rock.
"Oh my…"
>By the time you look back she's already turned a corner.
>There's something about her that you can't quite put a hoof on it.
>But it's definitely something you don't want to miss.

>You are Queen Umbra, but for now you are simply 'Pyrite'.
>As you turn the corner you finish your incantation and cast your spell.
>The cloak helps hide your magical aura, allowing you to freely use magic without suspicion or at least on low level magic or unsuspecting ponies.
>"Pyrite?" Rarity calls out.
"This way."
>"Pyrite, I don't think this ways leads to anywhere… huh?"
>You can't help but laugh.
>What are they teaching ponies these days?
>It was a mid-tier to high tier magic spell that could link two spatial areas at any one time, given that the magic user could visualise and feel both opening and exit.
>The range is only limited by the magic users' magic, the longer the distance the greater the required magic and concentration.
"We are here."
>Rarity's jaw dropped in a very undignified manner.
>Here you are both outside the Clam & Oyster, one of the most lucrative bars in Canterlot.
>Or so your previous intel had told you, there was nothing but raving reviews in the newspapers about the place.
>"Wha-wha-wha-" Rarity couldn't even begin to imagine how they ended up here.
"Would you like to accompany me?"
>"W-why of course darling!"
>You lead the way into the bar, only to be met with a waiting staff.
>"Welcome to the Clam & Oyster." Spoke the mare. "Do you have a reservation?"
"No I do not, but I think these should suffice."
>You remove some jewels from your cloak and drop them onto the desk with your hoof.
>Several large, colourful jewels clatter in view of everypony.
>Ones which would be put to better use than to decorate a certain pony.
>You could hear Rarity and the waiting staff gasp at the sight.
>"I-I'm sorry. Y-you can't do that. Y-you'll need a reservation." Stuttered the waiter.
"Can't I?"
>Behind the quivering waiter a stallion appears with a 'Manager' tag.
"Is there a problem?"
>One quick look at you, then the jewels on the desk makes him spring into action.
>"No, no not at all madam." He smiles. "Please, this way."
>You are both led to the highest floor, the most prestigious floor of the bar where you can hear smooth ambient music.
>Each of the tables have their own set of curtains for further privacy.
>You could see that this was all new to your guest, and it was making her quite uncomfortable.
"Rarity, please."
>"Why yes of course." She quickly perches herself on top of the seat.
"What would you like to drink?"
>"Some red wine?" She asks.
>Funny how she answers with a question, just like a filly.
"That won't do." You motion for a waiter and whisper into her ear.
>With a nod the waiter goes away and brings out one single bottle.
>"Royal Canterlot red wine, aged for several solar years. A classic and a rarity."
>"Pyrite, a-are you sure about this? Why, this is all too much." You love seeing how your guest squirms.
"This will do."
>The waiting staff gracefully pours out two glasses of red wine.
>"Well then, this is indeed a cause for a celebration, a toast perhaps?"
>You nod.
>"To our fated meeting, and to our princesses." Rarity hovers her glass in front of you.
"Why yes, to our fated meeting, and, to the princesses." You hold the glass in your hoof and take a sip.
>"Oh my," Rarity coos. "The taste is simply divine! I still can't believe I'm drinking Royal Canterlot red wine. How do you find it?"
"It is delicious." You lie.
>The taste is stale, bitter and sour.
>It is disgusting and overwhelms your taste buds.
>The grapes they used were too large, too old, and the soil was pumped full of magic.
>They even brewed it in a pile of rotten wood and stuck it down some musky basement for all these years.
>It was nothing like the wine you once had back in your kingdom.
>Even blood tasted better than this.
"Rarity," You place down you glass. "I came to you because I have a very personal request to ask of you."
>Rarity stopped mid-sip.
"I would like you to produce a line of items to my specific requirements."
>"Yes please do go on. I should be able to do that easily enough. Though I do have several projects that I would nee-"
"It is of the upmost importance that it is done immediately." You can feel yourself glaring at her.
>You shut your eyes to dissipate the emotions.
"You will be dealing with different materials, though you will be handsomely rewarded for your work."
>In that instance, you produce several more of those crystal gems on top of the table.
>By the look on Rarity's face, they're ones that she has never seen before.
>"O-of course Pyrite!"
"Take this scroll. I will use it to contact you soon with the instructions and materials."
>You take out a scroll from within your cloak and place it neatly in front of Rarity.
"You will be making some, memorable items, for my return journey."
>Feeling the presence of these ponies surrounding you, along with their obnoxious personalities, music and food makes you feel sick.
"I will take my leave now."
>"So soon?" Rarity asks. "Why we still have the whole bottle!"
"It's yours. I have also called for a carriage to take you wherever you want."
>And with that, you stand up and walk out through the curtains before Rarity could speak.
>As you descend among the stairs, you hear and feel the other ponies talking about you.
>"Thank you for gracing us with your visit." The manager alongside his waiters bow before you. "Please come visit us anytime."
>See how they grovel for mere jewels.
>You nod and leave without saying anything, taking the next closest alleyway.
"The Element of Generosity huh?' You laugh.
>You take a moment outside in the cold air and silence.
>It reminds you of your kingdom, of your days gone by.
>Now lost to you.
>A moment later you hear something coming towards you.
>"Well, well, well. What do we 'ave 'ere?"
>An earth pony wearing a torn leather jacket blocks the path ahead of you.
>"Looks like a little lost pony to me boss." A pegasus pony appears behind you, followed by a different pony.
>"She sure looks pretty, ain't she? Why don't we take off that cloak and see what she really looks like underneath." The unicorn emerges into the light.
>Three buffoons throwing away their lives.
>Perhaps this will help relieve you of your frustration.
"What upstanding citizens you have here in Canterlot. No better than cockroaches."
>"Oh she's gotta tongue."
>"Yeah I like them when they're fiesty."
>This could be amusing.
>These foals have no idea what they're getting themselves into.
>"Hey let's take her out for a spin. Really nice."
>"Whoa… Boss I'm getting the heeby jeebies from this one."
>You begin to exert your powers to the shadow beneath you, the onlookers watch as something writhes, stretches and crawls beneath you.
>The three thugs look a bit shaken.
>"H-heh stop being such a scaredy cat, what's she gonna do?"
>"I'm telling you, boss, this mare's trouble!" The pegasus squeaks.
>You couldn't help but laugh, these foals are cowering just from your power in your weakened state.
>They freeze.
>"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE CRIMINAL SCUM!"
>… again?
>All four of you look up.
>You see a green faced creature jump from the building high above and land awkwardly in front of you.

>You are Anonymous, Anon for coolness sake.
>Being stuck inside Canterlot Castle was no fun, and the princesses were busy minding their own stuff.
>So outside of your duties towards the day and night courts, keeping Twilight Sparkle entertained, helping Spike out and the occasional visit to Rarity's place in Canterlot, you roam the city on your own.
>Most of the ponies here avoided or ignored you, though a few seem to warm up to other species.
>But this wasn't Ponyville.
>This was Canterlot.
>A city much like any other, bustling full with all kinds of inhabitants.
>And not of the nice kinds either.
>Tonight was just going to be one of those nights.
>Usually all it takes is for you to surprise them and watch the assailants run away out of panic.
>On the rare occasion you had to get down and dirty, Twilight would always nag at you resorting to violence and Luna would just look at you disapprovingly for your lack of skill.
>Luna did always want to train you for combat.
>Climbing up building always gave you great night views of the landscape.
>And also pretending to be some dark knight.
>You hear a noise down the alleyway below you.
>You spot three stallions who look like city scum.
>I guess scum looks the same no matter what world you're in.
"Time to do my thing." You stand up. "HOLD IT RIGHT THERE CRIMINAL SCUM!"
>And with that, you dropped from the ledge.
>Then you land awkwardly.
>Ouch.
"FUCK THAT HURTS."
>"What in tartarus are you doing?" One of the thugs sneers at you.
>"Oh, I know! It's that green monkey I've heard about!"
>"What no way! Monkey wants a banana? Oo oo oo! Bwahaha!"
>You sigh.
>You've heard it all before but this stupidity is getting the worse of you.
>You mumble, stuffing your hands in your pockets and walk towards the unicorn.
"Firstly, I am here to make sure idiots like you stop doing stupid things."
>You swing your leg out, catching the unicorn by the horn and watch him tumble.
>That's their weak point.
"Secondly, I am a human being. Not a monkey."
>Feigning a punch at the pegasus, you grab his tail as he tries to dodge you and using your entire weight as leverage you swing him at the earth pony.
"And lastly I wanted to let off some steam because I can't stand punks like you. Nothing more, nothing less."
>You bolt at the earth pony as he throws the pegasus off him and throw an uppercut, hitting him right underneath his jaw.
>K.O.!
>Or so you'd like to imagine.
>The threesome get back up with grins on.
>"Well shucks, looks like monkey boy wants to fight."
>"Likes to play dirty too!"
>"Two can play at that..."
"Oh crap."
>You feel the unicorn's magic fix your feet in place.
>Unable to move the pegasus does a flying punch past your face.
>Pain rushes from your cheek.
>When you look up the earth pony rears his hind legs and bucks you square in the stomach, forcing you to kneel over in pain.
>"Hahaha pathetic!" You hear them cry.
>Yeah, they were right.
>You just couldn't match their strength.
>Not as a human in a magical world full of ponies.
>The best thing you could do was to draw their attention away from the mare.
>Speaking of which, why was she just standing there doing nothing?
"G-get away while you still can!" You utter out towards her.
>Wait.
>Is she smiling?
>No, she's laughing.

>You are 'Pyrite'.
>You couldn't believe what was happening right in front of you.
>This has to be some sort of comedy.
>Three cockroaches appear and now a strange creature that you've never seen before tries and 'save' you.
>You start laughing, causing all the others to stop.
"This is most entertaining." You grin beneath your veil. "What is your name?"
>"Huh? Who said we were done with you prissy!" The earth pony sneers as he tries to lay a hoof on you. "Wha-"
>He is cut off by an invisible force, which sends him flying and crashing into the alleyway bins.
>The other two ponies, including the strange green 'human' creature, are dumbfounded by what just happened.
"Please, don't make me repeat myself again."
>The green creature seems almost idiotic.
>"I-I'm Anonymous, Anon for short.'
"What a peculiar name." You nod.
>"Nobody gets the better of me!" The earth pony springs back up.
>The foal has a banana peel on top of his head.
>"Boss! I-it's strange! I can't sense any magic off her!" The unicorn says, quivering ever so slightly.
>"Shut it!" The earth pony reaches inside his jacket and pulls something out.
>Anon's expression drops.

>You are Anon.
>You can just about see the earth pony behind the mare.
>It looked like something long and sharp.
>This is really bad news.
>The earth pony was gripping a knife in his mouth now.
>For a pony to pull out a knife means either one of two things, he's stupid or someon- somepony's going to get hurt.
>Even with your basic 'survival' training with Luna you know when something was too dangerous to handle.
>And right now this mysterious mare has her back to that psychopathic earth pony.
>You try to move but your feet are still stuck in place.
>Damn unicorn magic!
"Watch out he's behind you!" You shout as you see the earth pony lunge at the mare.
>But it's too late.
>You shut your eyes as you hear the sound of metal hitting, stabbing into something.
>... followed by the sound of metal rattling across the floor.
"Huh?
>You open your eyes and find the mysterious mare still standing before you.
>Behind her you see the earth pony knocked out cold.
>The knife had shattered into pieces.
"How... did you do that?"
>"Do what?" She replies.
>You swear she was smiling behind that veil.
>"Tonight has been most enjoyable. I will take my leave now."
>And with that, the mare turns and disappears into the shadows.
>Suddenly the grip on your feet loosens.
>Looking around you see the unicorn slumped up against his pegasus partner.
>Both of them were knocked out cold.
"What… just happened?"
>…
>"Ah, Anonymous, is that you dear?"
"Huh? Rarity? What are you doing here?"
>"Oh tonight's been such a wonderful night, a dream come true! That was, until I heard the commotion back here in the alleyway."
>"It sounded just dreadful!" She staggered.
>Several of Celestia's Royal Guard walk past you and seize the knocked out thugs.
>"I called for help as soon as I found ou-Anonymous! You're hurt!"
>You taste blood, looks like you got a cut lip.
"Oh it's nothing. 'Tis but a scratch."
>"Nonsense. Now come along now and let me take a better look at you."
>She stands and clumsily places both hooves onto your shoulders, nearly pushing you over as she does so.
"No it's fine really-Rarity are you drunk?"
>There's a strong smell of alcohol in her breath and who knows what else.
>"A lady is never drunk... well perhaps a bit... "
>Rarity sighs and closes her eyes.
>She wobbles as she leans on you, prompting you to put her upright.
>Jolting awake she puts on a sheepish smile.
>"Oh yes take a look at this darling! Royal Canterlot red wine!" She waves the bottle in mid-air with her magic. "It is simply divine, you must try some!"
"Err... no thanks, let's just get you back home before something else crazy happens."
>Just where the hell was she hiding that?
>"Hump, suit yourself."
>Rarity is now cuddling the bottle like a baby and closes her eyes.
>A captain of the Royal Guards comes up beside you.
>"Anonymous, glad to see that you are safe. We came as quickly as we could once the Element of Generosity was able to give us the location, but it seems like you handled it all just fine."
"Yes about that..."
>"Anonymous?"
"Never mind, good work and goodnight captain."
>"Sir!"
"Come on Rarity, let's go home." You pick up and cradle Rarity in your arms who is still clutching onto the bottle of wine.
>"Oh wait, my darling prince. We have a carriage back… back there!" Rarity shouts.
>You sigh.
>Well Anonymous you certainly know to keep yourself busy.

>You are 'Pyrite', though now you can be yourself, Queen Umbra.
>It was already pretty late when you arrived at one of your resting spots.
>The building was sandwiched between two hostels in a somewhat seedy part of Canterlot.
>The only visual clue you had was the single bright red door and black stain over the face plate.
>You walk up to the door and knock several times.
>"There's no room for anypony here. Get lost." Came the voice from behind the door.
"There is always space for a shadow is there not?" You reply.
>The face plate sides open revealing a pair of bright yellow eyes.
>"By the shadows..."
>The face plate quickly shuts and you hear the frantic unlocking behind the red door.
>The door slowly swings open with a low creak.
>A grey earth mare appears behind it and ushers you in.
>"Come in, quickly now."
>You step inside into a dimly lit hall, the place is practically empty
>Behind you the door closes with an audible lock, followed by the sounds of the various other locks.
>Once done, the grey earth pony rushes in front of you and bows before you.
>Her mane is long and sleek and that its fair shade compliments her eyes.
>"Forgive me for my lack of courtesy," the mare spoke without looking up. "These are trying times."
"Your actions are commendable, as is your loyalty." You remove your veil and smile at the mare. "These are dangerous times, we can never be sure as to who is listening in."
"For now I am Pyrite, your mistress." You place a hoof on her shoulder. "Tell me, what is your name?"
>"Silver Lining, my mistress." the mare raises her head with a look of affirmation. "You must be tired after your journey here. Please, follow me."
>Without saying anything you nod and follow her.
>The floor boards beneath you creak with every step.
>Looking around you can see that the place is modestly furnished.
>The wallpaper is old and is peeling away at various spots.
>You enter what you imagine is the lounge.
>It's furnished with a wooden table and a few chairs, by the window sill there are flower beds with daisies blooming in them.
>On the wall you spot a board with various newspaper cut-outs grouped in various arrangements.
>You take a step closer to read the various published headlines.
>"SHADOW QUEEN BANISHED", "CRYSTAL PONIES FREED", "CRYSTAL KINGDOM TRADE BOOMS", " SHADOW SLEEPER CELLS RAIDED", "CELESTIA: PRINCESS OR TYRANT?", "CHANGELING INVASION", "SHADOW IMMIGRANTS FLOCK".
>You've seen enough.
>"I'm sorry, mistress. I should have kept those hidden." Silver looks away in embarrassment.
"And yet you kept these out." You walk alongside the board. "Why is that?"
>"I..." She utters. "I don't have anypony around me."
>You could hear the loneliness in her voice.
>"B-but now I have you mistress."
"Thank you, Silver Lining. I think I will have my rest."
>"O-of course. Please, I'll show you to your room."
>Silver Lining takes you down the corridor and opens a large wooden door.
>You walk in the candlelit room.
>The room is dark with heavy curtains falling from the window.
>In the centre of the room is a queen sized bed lacking bedposts.
>There is a small cabinet over by the wall and a solemn grey mannequin.
>"I-if you should require my services, just call out my name." Silver Lining speaks out as she stands just outside of the room. "I'm just in the room next door."
"Goodnight Silver Lining."
>You turn your head back.
"You've…. done well."
>"Goodnight mistress."
>With a door shuts with a heavy thud, it echoes throughout the room.
>In that instance, you were left in silence.
>None of this feels real to you.
>You begin to shed off your cloak and place it over the mannequin and shake loose your mane.
>It looks just like you.
>But it isn't you, not the you you've known your whole life.
>A queen.
>Trying not to dwell on these thoughts you slide in between the cold covers.
>You shut your eyes and you are taken back into the shadows.
~"Hello darkness, my old friend."~
>You feel yourself slip into that place again.
>At a far distance within the place, you see a faint, glowing red light.
>Pulsing like a heartbeat.

>You are Anon.
>Thankfully you find the carriage and ask the driver pony to take you back to Canterlot Castle.
>There was no way you were going to carry Rarity all the way back there.
>Tonight's just been one thing after another.
>The front doors open up to you revealing the grand hall.
>Princess Celestia is talking with her sister when she spots you.
>"Anonymous, how nice to see you tonight." She puts on her smile. "I see you've been up to your usual devices?"
>You find a wet handkerchief with a golden aura fly towards you.
>"Here let me."
>She dabs your cut lip.
>You flinch.
>It stings, but the pain soon goes away.
"Thanks for the magic first aid Princess. And evening Princess Luna."
>"We see you have brought the Element of Generosity."
>Cold as usual.
"Yes, she's been… drinking."
>"Royal Canterlot wine." Luna raises an eyebrow. "This is a very old label. How were you able to get a hold of one?"
>"Mmm divine…" Rarity mutters.
"Well maybe we can ask her when she wakes up. Interested?"
>"Hardly. We must prepare for the night court now. Goodnight sister. Anonymous."
>"Goodnight Luna."
>You feel your arms lighten.
>Rarity floats asleep into the air besides you.
"You're being particularly nice tonight Princess." You rub your sore arm.
>"Why whatever do you mean? I look out for all my little ponies, including you."
>Celestial turns her back to you.
>"Well? I'd appreciate the company."
>It's that smile again.
>Well, it's not like you have anything else to be doing.
>You shrug your shoulders.
"Sure why not Princess?"
>You feel Celestia's mane smack you lightly behind your head.
>"Oh Anon, why do you have to be so formal around me? Celestia will do just fine."
>You feel your cheeks brighten a couple notches.
"Y-yeah I guess so. It's just that, well, you're like a god here."
>"And you are the only 'human' being here in all of Equestria." Celestia states. "In a way it makes  us pretty similar."
>Celestia, an alicorn with celestial powers, likening herself to you, a regular Joe?
"If you say so."
>She smiles at your comment.
>You both arrive outside a room with the emblem of the sun on the door.
>A pony maid was waiting outside for.
>The maid has the usual black and white maid uniform on, which doesn't clash with her creamy fur and blonde mane.
>"P-Princess. A-A-Anony… mous…" She stutters.
>… okay?
>"Anon if you would be so kind to wait outside."
"Sure thing."
>"P-Princess… Please allow me to-"
>"It's fine. She's a welcomed guest."
>Rarity floats inside first followed by Celestia.
>You catch the maid looking up at you, and when your eyes meet she quickly scans the floor.
>Yeah, you guess you're still quite the sight for the ponies in Canterlot.
>You think back to the past.
>The ponies back in Ponyville weren't so fussed about a different species, mostly due to the high number of Harmony shenanigans.
>But now that things were quieter, you decided to go with Twilight and Rarity to live in Canterlot for a while.
>"Thank you Anon for waiting." Celestia emerges and closes the door behind her.
>She turns to the maid.
>"That will be all."
>"P-Princess. Ah-Ah-Anon." She quickly turned and skipped away.
>Ponies…
"So Prin- Celestia. What's up?"
>She unfolds one of her wings pushes it up behind you as you both walk.
>"I've been wanting to spend some time with you but I've been so busy recently. Tell me, how are you finding life in Equestria?"
"Well there's not much to it I guess…"
>You try and think of something better to say.
"I wake up, I eat, I help out in whatever way I can and then I go back to sleep."
>Celestia stops in her tracks, folds back her wing and stares at you.
>"Anon." She's looking into your eyes now. "Please."
>You laugh.
>… oops.
>Celestia doesn't look amused.
>She looks almost upset.
>You didn't mean to laugh but…
>Well what else were you supposed to do?
>She's never been so… direct before.
"Do you mind if we, get some fresh air?"
>"Certainly Anon. A change of scenery might do us some good."
>…
>Celestia led you to the balcony outside the castle tower.
>From there you could see Luna's night sky hanging over Canterlot's lights.
>Celestia smiled as you looked on.
>That same smile she gave to all her ponies in court.
>"You said there's not been much to life in Equestria, that you just wake up and carry on with your day until it ends, and then you go to sleep."
>You looked into the far distance and wondered what things were like back in Ponyville.
"I guess, ever since I came here Canterlot, there's not been a lot going on." You rubbed your neck. "I guess things have quietened down for me. I mean I still see Twilight and Rarity every now and then. And of course you and your sister."
>"Anon." Celestia turns to face you with a slight smile. "You're like a princess, in more ways than you know."
"Wait what's that supposed to mean?"
>Celestia lets out a laugh and then looked up at her sister's full moon.
>"Every day I have to raise the sun, attend to the day court and then help lower the sun." She looks down at the city lights. "But the most important thing is that I help protect my ponies in whatever way I can."
>Oh.
>"Every day, for the past thousand or so years it's been the same thing." Her voice lowered. "Life carries on."
>Celestia, is she…?
"Surely things have changed? You got your sister back, there's Twilight too and… well, I'm here now."
>Celestia closes her eyes, as though contemplating something.
>"Perhaps."
>She turns around and starts to walk back into the tower.
>"Thank you, Anon, for spending time with me. I should go get some sleep now."
"Good night Celestia."
>She went in without ever looking back.
>Today's been such a strange day.
>First that mysterious mare and now Celestia's talk.
>Better try and get some sleep.

>You are Queen Umbra.
>You were woken up abruptly.
>Lying still you gather your thoughts.
>Yes, you never did finish your work.
>The steam engines in the factories nearby were starting up.
>Chug, chug, chug, chug.
>It was a constant drone, with the voice of ponies shouting over the noise.
>You tried shifting in bed and wrapping your hooves around your pillow.
>Chug, chug, chug, chug.
>There was no way you could sleep.
>In the corner of your eye you spotted a pony in a cloak coming at you.
>You sprang up in bed and sent a crystal shard at the intruder.
>The pony fell over in a single stiff movement.
>Outside you could hear somepony running.
>"Mistress! Are you alright?!"
>The door opened up.
>Silver Lining appears with an unmade mane.
"Oh." You relax.
>That was it.
>It was just mannequin.
>You collapse back down in bed, feeling irritated, tired…
>… and foolish.
>"Mistress are you alright?" Silver Lining was hugging the doorframe now.
"I'm fine, Silver Lining. I… didn't realise how much magic I've been using the other night."
>In other words, how weak you were.
>Silver Lining lets out a smile.
>"Shall I prepare your breakfast for you mistress?"
"Thank you, Silver Lining."
>"No, thank you mistress, you wouldn't believe how long I've waited to say those words."
>And with that she left with a skip.
>After slowly getting out of bed, you walk over to the window and open the curtains.
>You let the weak sun hit your bare, naked self.
>Before you lies a landfill of factories, warehouses and houses stacked upon houses.
>Canterlot.
>The shining city built upon taking from others.
>You hear a knock behind you and the door opens up.
>"Mistress, your breakfast is rea-AH FORGIVE ME MISTRESS!" Silver Lining blushes and covers her eyes.
"Silver. Please." You speak calmly. "It's fine."
>"Please, excuse me. I'll wait for you in the lounge."
>Before you can talk to her, she's already gone.
>She was probably right though, none of your citizens at the kingdom had ever seen you without your armour and cloak.
>Without them, you were naked.
>Looking over to the cloak you can see how effective it can be at concealing who you were.
>For now, you just need something, light.
>Using a little magic you change it into a cape and swing it over your back.
>Seeing how nice it fits you now, you head on out to see to your breakfast.
"Better than nothing."
>…
>Perhaps you should see to Rarity today.

>You are Anon, and you slept terribly.
>Your thoughts were plagued with your conversation with Celestia.
>What did she mean?
>Then there was that mysterious mare.
>Just who in Equestria was she?
>You shifted around in bed trying to get comfortable.
>The bed was already warm enough as it is.
>Great, there's no way you can sleep on it now.
>You rub your sore eyes and start getting up.
>The wardrobe had all the clothes you ever needed, thanks to Rarity.
>In fact, it was all the same outfit, a white shirt, black suit and red tie, just copy and pasted several times.
>Well, at least a suit made you feel smart and made you want to do something during your day.
>Just as you were pulling up your trousers you hear the bedroom door crash open.
>It's the maid from last night, with a heavy blush on her face.
>"Ah-Ah-Anon. Do you need any assist-"
>Her eyes fall down your body.
"Get out!"
>"Y-you seem to be having s-some trouble dressing." Her eyes are hazy.
"No it's fine just please get out!"
>What is wrong with this pony?
>She's all over the place.
>More importantly, she's not going away, she's inching her way towards you.
"Listen, what's your name? I don't even kn-"
>"Cream. Crackers." She whispers in a sultry tone, punctuating each word.
"C-Cream Crackers!?"
>Who the heck hired this maid?
>Your back is up against the wall now.
"G-Guards! Help!" You cry out.
>But it's be too late.
>She's literally upon you, climbing up you onto hoof by hoof.
>Her eyes are glazed over, she's salivating.
>"Ah-Anon…"
"Forgive me!"
>You slip to her side, grabbing hold of her neck and drop your entire weight forward.
>You send her flying up into the air and slamming back down against the floorboards.
"RKO!"
>You're lying flat on the floor trying to recover your breath.
>Wait… is she alright?
>You look up and stare into those upside down hazy eyes.
>"Wow you're so strong. Such strength…" She gasps.
>Oh yeah, earth ponies can take a beating.
>And now she's in the perfect position to pin you down.
>"Enjoying yourself little one?"
>Saved at last!
>When Cream Crackers looked up, a glob of drool fell onto your face.
"Ah!"
>"You will stand to attention when your Princess of the Night is present."
>"P-Princes L-Luna? I-I-I was just helping Ah-"
>"We have seen enough to know that thou art in estrus and that thou wish to procreate with this human!"
>Very subtle Luna.
>"Thou will be suspended until we see fit that thou are of sound body and mind!"
>Cream Crackers is shivering now.
>"F-forgive me Princess! I-I cannot-"
>Cream Crackers is now trying to tear off your single layer of protection in an final act of desperation.
>"Enough!"
>Luna blasts her with a blue beam of magic.
>A spectacular blue light envelops the entire room.
>"Anonymous, thou art safe now. We… would have it no other way."
>Opening your eyes you see Cream Crackers asleep with a grin on her face.
>"Ah-Anon." She whispers.
>…
>You and Luna are now standing outside the room.
>"We are pleased to see that you put some of our training to good use."
>Both of you watch as several guards take away the sleeping maid.
>"Though, we are disappointed in allowing such a maid to cause you such distress." Luna grimaces.
"I've gotta give it to you Princess Luna, you saved me back there."
>"Please, dispense with the formalities. Call us Luna. But do not think we did not see your lack of effort, you must train to be stronger."
"Ah…"
>Here we go again with 'not being good enough'
"Don't worry I will."
>To stop something like this from ever happening again.
>Luna studies you before nodding to herself.
>"Anonymous. The sun will soon rise so we will take our leave." She nods at you and begins to walk away. "We believe our sister will have an important task for you, in light of this situation."
>What now?
>"Do not worry, this is mere task. We are sure thou will excel with serendipity. We have high hopes for thee."
>Great.
>Just great.

>You are Rarity.
>You wake up feeling hungover.
>Oh the dangers of red wine.
>You rub your sore head and try and figure out where you were.
>This clearly wasn't your own room, but it was familiar enough.
>Canterlot Castle.
>The guest room for the princesses' guests.
>Anonymous must've brought you back.
>You look around the room and see a table with the offending bottle on top of it.
>But… looking at it you can't be too angry with it.
>It was a work of art.
>And you… slightly abused it last night.
>Speaking of which, what you recall something strange happening in your dream.
>You remember the sensations of something horrible, yet at the same time…
>… it felt good.
>As much as you try and remember the dream, you can't remember of it.
>Was it a nightmare or just a dream?
>Dreams are just like that.
>Come on Rarity, you think to yourself, if you can get out and have something to drink you'll be fine.
>You slide out of your bed and wobble a bit.
"Okay Rarity, you can do this."
>With the bathroom in sight, you wander in and take a shower.
>…
"That was lovely! I feel so reinvigorated!"
>You head down to the dining hall, hoping to find somepony you recognise.
>Instead you are greeted by the castle maids.
>"Good morning Rarity, would you like some breakfast?"
"Oh yes please, though I wonder if you can tell if you've seen Princess Celestia or Anonymous?"
>"They both had an early breakfast and went on their way. It looks like they'll be busy for a while. Here's the menu."
>You sigh.
>You wanted to at least thank them for helping you out last night.
>You get a breakfast consisting of French toast, black coffee and a helping of summer berries.
>Soon afterwards you head on out to the castle grounds to try and find them.
>Usually Anonymous is off goofing around.
>Celestia is either in her study or at the day court.
>Twilight is… well stuck inside her library with her books, and as much as she is a friend, she can be an awful bore.
>Unable to find anypony you head back into the guest room.
"Oh Opal, I hope your fine back home with Sweetie Belle."
>You close your eyes and reminisce with the past.
>~"Rarity…"~
>Did you just imagine that?
>An image of that mare, Pyrite, appeared in your mind.
>Oh yes, that was right, she wanted me to do some work for her.
>And there was also that scroll…
>Where was it, oh there it was, wrapped around the Royal Canterlot bottle neck.
>You magic it loose and bring it towards you.
>It's pretty small for a scroll.
"Let's see what's on here."
>… nothing.
"This can't be right."
>You try holding it up against the light, remembering that it was an old magic ink trick.
>… still nothing.
"She wouldn't have gone through all that trouble to do something like that, would she?"
>You wonder what's she up to now?
>Speaking of which, you had to go out to fetch some supplies for your client.
>Placing the scroll inside your saddlebag and making sure you had enough bits, you went outside into Canterlot.

>You are Anon.
>It was still morning.
>And you were still in a daze.
>You weren't sure what to think about what happened this morning.
>Essentially a mare tried to get it on with you.
>Wouldn't that count as rape?
>No, better not think of it like that.
>Wouldn't that count as best-
>"Anon! Snap out of it!"
"Ah!"
>"You know it's rude to not listen when a princess is speaking."
>Celestia is giving you the concerned look from across the table.
>You look down at your toast, eggs and cup of coffee.
"Sorry Celestia."
>"I'm sorry Anon, I can't excuse one of our maids for forcing themselves onto you, but I can promise you it won't happen again."
"… you promise?"
>"You know that it was Luna who saved you Anon, but I will say this. I promise to personally keep you safe."
>She stops the conversation as you levitates and sips from a cup of tea.
>You look down at your own cup of black coffee, unsure of what to say.
>Realising you've been out of it for too long, you take down your coffee in one go.
>Eugh bitter!
>Well that'll wake you up.
>"Usually we check over each maid before we take them on inside the castle. But this time, I want you to help us to be in charge of choosing another maid."
>You're caught taking a bite out of the egg on toast.
>Very classy.
"Are you sure about that Celestia? I mean, surely anypony will do?"
>"That's out of the question, she might be a maid at the castle but we need somepony that will be able to control herself especially when it comes to looking after other species."
>Celestia now levitates a cinnamon roll and takes several quick bites out of it.
>"I'll make a public vacancy later on this morning, so I'll leave the rest up to you Anon."
>Great.
>There goes your day of recovering your mental state.
>Then again, Celestia does seem to be putting a lot of effort in making up for all this.
>And perhaps it'll help you put your mind off Cream Crackers.
"Alright Celestia, that sounds like a plan."
>"Excellent Anon. I will be looking forward to see who you'll pick. Now I must go and prepare for the day court, we've been having a few security breaches in the last couple days."
>She stands up.
>"I will see you later, Anon."
"See you Celestia." You pause. "Hey wait a sec."
>Celestia stops just as she walks away.
"W-would you like to spend, I mean have dinner together? I mean with Luna, too. I feel like we haven't seen much of each other recently."
>Celestia looks up and a smile appears on her face.
>"That'll be fine Anon, I'll see you then."
>You never really noticed it, but it seemed like a genuine smile, not one of those you've seen her put on for others
>You see her walking away, down the corridor and out and sight.
>Well, now you've been given a task to find somepony, just how can you do that without them pretending to not like you?
>A plan forms in your head, it might not be such a bad idea if you approached the ponies of Canterlot first and see how they react to you.
>That way you could figure out who aren’t the insane ones in this magical horse filled world.
>And that way you could then ask if they were interested in the job.
>Sounds about right.
>Finishing your breakfast you decided to hightail it out into Canterlot.

>You are Queen Umbra, under the guise of 'Pyrite'.
>"Please mistress, let me accompany you today."
"I'd rather you not, since it'll draw a lot of attention to us."
>You magic your cape back into a cloak and veil.
>Silver Lining looks dejected, but it's understandable.
"Here."
>You walk up to her and pass her several bits.
"Please buy some new furniture for the room. And if possible, something to keep all that noise out."
>Silver Lining's eyes light up.
>"Sure thing mistress! I'll do my best!"
"I'll have a couple of things that I need to do now, I will be back later tonight."
>"May the shadows protect you mistress!" She waves enthusiastically.
>…
>You walk down the lone alleyway and find a particularly dark corner.
>This will do fine for your magic.
>Closing your eyes, you focus on that crystal shard.
>You can see it beating brightly.
>She's nearby.
>You merge into the shadows behind you, and re-emerge in the high class area of Canterlot.
>It's bustling as usual, full of pompous high class ponies.
>But you are close to her.
>A smile appears beneath your veil.
>"I'm terribly sorry, but I might have to postpone the collection until further notice. Something very important came up dear." You hear that familiar voice talking to that previous pony.
>They're both ever so polite, though you know it's all a façade.
>You are now towering over behind her, your cast shadow almost reaching for her.
>"Ah! Oh, Pyrite! I was wondering when I'd get to see you again!"
"Rarity, how pleasant that we meet again."
>This time you unveil yourself, revealing your dark muzzle for her to see.
>You flash a smile at her all the while gazing into her eyes.
>Your eyes glow with magic before returning back to normal.
>You catch Rarity's look at your face.
>She's blushing in awe.
"I have something important I would like you, and something that only you can to do for me today."
>"Why yes, certainly, Pyrite, whatever is it?"
>You cover up your veil.
"Did you bring that scroll with you?"
>"Yes I did, but the strangest thing about it was that it was empty." She's digging into her saddle bag. "Surely that's a mistake?"
"Take a look again."
>Rarity pulls out the scroll, what was once blank is now full of black writing all over the page.
>Lines detailing what to get and of the quality and quantity required.
>"H-how did that happen?"
"I did mention that this was something very important for me, so it was important that only your eyes see it" You brush yourself up against Rarity. "Shall we go fair Rarity?"
>"I-I-I…"
>She whips her mane back as a sign of her re-composure.
>"Certainly, Pyrite."
>…
>You both walk through the busy Canterlot streets, side by side.
>Many of the Canterlot residents look at the two of you, but you pay no attention to their shallow judgment.
>Your companion, Rarity, seems to be struggling however.
>Whispers about the two of you become very audible.
>What petty foals.
>"Hey isn't that Rarity? What's she doing with that foreign mare?"
>"I knew she had extravagant tastes and eccentric friends, but this is a whole new level."
>"I can't believe she's that sleazy."
>"Maybe she's had enough of stallions?"
>"I guess any pony will do for her if they have the right bits or gems." You hear them snicker.
>Rarity is trying to ignore all those comments, but she's clearly uncomfortable.
>You throw your cloak around Rarity and bring her close to you, causing her to heavily blush.
>You feel her body brush up against yours.
>Seems like she's getting hot from all this attention.
>"P-P-Pyrite. Wh-what are you doing?"
"I'm showing all these ponies that there is nothing wrong with what we're doing." You push her along in stride. "And if anypony was foalish enough to cause us any grief, they will have to deal with me first."
>Rarity remains quiet for a while.
>After a while, she stops shaking and lets out a small smile.
"We are here."
>"What is this store? I don't believe they sell any fabrics here"
"Did I not say that you will be producing something very specific? It will involve a very special metal alloy, one infused with magic."
>You walk in through the door without a moment's hesitation.
>The store is dark and dusty, but the shelves are stocked with several kinds of metal slabs and sheets.
>"… infused with magic?"
>She's clearly intrigued.
>An old pony peeked out from behind the counter, as though he had just taken a nap.
>He's clearly puzzled with your presence.
"Back where I am from, our craftspony imbued various items with magic to improve its qualities. Perhaps this is all new for you."
>"I'm afraid it is, but it does sound interesting, and exciting."
>You smile and turn to her.
"Imagine a new line of clothes that combines both beauty and function in its form." Your eyes glow again.
>"T-that… sounds incredible."
>Rarity is probably imagining all sorts of inane designs.
>Perhaps a waterproof dress and hat?
"Store keep! I will need these items on this list."
>…
>"That store keep was such a darling." Rarity beamed. "I couldn't believe how generous another pony would be!"
"Is that strange?"
>"Well, it's very uncommon, especially in Canterlot." Rarity looks up to the sky. "Back in Ponyville you'd have to haggle down the price. But for him give it to, ahem, two beautiful mares at such a huge discount, I can't say I'm not flattered or surprised."
 >You let out a little laugh.
>A simple charm spell.
>That senile old pony had no idea what got him.
>"Hm? Something amusing Pyrite?"
"I was just thinking how wonderful the ponies of Canterlot are. I wonder what the ponies of Ponyville are like."
>Rarity can't seem to contain her glee hearing you say those words.
"Shall we move on?"
>"Why of course darling, I happen to know a fine café on the way to our next destination."
>As the two of you carry on through the streets, a billboard catches your eye.
>"HER ROYAL HIGHNESS SEEKS A ROYAL MAID TO SERVE AT CANTERLOT CASTLE."
>You stop and to read the fine print.
>"POTENTIAL CANDIDATES WILL UNDERGO STRENUOUS TRAINING AND MUST COMPLETE THE TRIALS ON HOOF. TASKS INVOLVE CARING FOR OTHER SPECIES. ANY INTERESTED PARTIES SHOULD REPORT TO CANTERLOT CASTLE IMMEDIATELY."
>You can't help stop your grin.
>This is perfect.
>You let out another laugh
>"Pyrite? Is something the matter?"
"Rarity, it seems like this was destined to be. While I certainly can go back to my own home, I am also free to go where I please. With some, work, I think I'll stay here in Canterlot." You spin the words.
>Rarity's eyes open wide in shock.
>"Don't tell me that you're thinking of working as a maid at Canterlot? I-It's an extremely challenging job, not to mention the entry requirements."
"Nonsense. One should never doubt oneself, let alone one's full potential. "
>Rarity is taken aback with her marefriend's words.
>"Wh-what you say is true." She clops her hooves together. "Oh wouldn't it be splendid if we were able to spend time in Canterlot together?"
"Yes, I'm sure. Now, shall we continue on with the list?"
>"O-of course! Erm, 'high grade magic infused wool', and several gems are next on the list."
"Here, I'd like to make one more addition."
>Taking one look, Rarity nods and sets out with vigour in her eyes.

>You are Anon.
>Going outside was a bad idea.
>Any time a mare came up to you to say 'good morning' you ran in the opposite direction like a Kenyan warrior.
>Guess you were still shaken up by Cream Crackers.
>Or rather, you were sure you saw her peeking out from the street corners everywhere you went.
>Either way, you ended up back in Canterlot Castle.
>How you wished you could see a familiar face again.
>Sitting down in an empty conference room, a stallion (at your request) helped serve you some refreshments.
>Peace and quiet.
>Your thoughts drifted back to how everypony was doing.
>Rainbow Dash was still working in and around Ponyville helping the weather, though if she got her act together she might've been able to become one of the Wonderbolts.
>Applejack was still working around her apples and family, it was a pretty simple life thinking back to it.
>Fluttershy, well she enjoyed looking after her pets and other animals but you had to be careful around her.
>I mean, who lives on the edge of the Everfree Forest?
>You daren't utter the pink pony's name, you get an aneurysm every time she appears out of the blue to talk to you.
>Perhaps if you were really drunk she could be fun to hang around with.
>That just leaves the other two that actually came with you to Canterlot, Twilight and Rarity.
"… Twilight."
>In your opinion, she really took a turn for the worse when she became a princess.
>You walk through the castle corridors towards the rear of the castle.
>Two guards are standing outside the basement library doors.
"Hi is Twilight in?" You wave to the guards.
>"Hello Anonymous. I'm sorry but you cannot enter."
>The guards cross their spears forming a barrier.
>"Princess Twilight has made it explicitly clear that nopony is to disturb her during this time."
"How long ago was that?"
>"Er…" The guards both look at each other. "About several weeks now."
"What?! And you guys haven't even checked up on her?"
>"Do not worry Anonymous, she… has everything that she needs. In fact, she's come up with a system. If you do wish to contact her, there is a reception where you can fill out a form to make an appointment with her."
>One of the guards points in down the corridor to another room.
"That… does sound like her. Well alright then guys, keep up the good work."
>"Sir!"
>You walk down the room, and just as they said there was a receptionist mare filing paperwork away.
>On the table there is a bronze platter with her name 'Quill Inkwell' emblazoned on it.
"H-hi there, I wanted to get in touch with Twilight?"
>"Princess Twilight." She didn't even look up at you. "You need to fill out these two forms and sign it here and here. Then it will need to be approved before you can meet her."
"Eh, great! How soon can I meet her?"
>"The current waiting time is a week in advance, if it's urgent we can push it down to two days." She readjusts her glasses. "Or if you have either of the Princesses approval it will be within the day."
"That long!?" You facepalm. "Listen I've known Twilight ever since I went to Ponyville-"
>"I'm sorry Anonymous, even if you are a close friend of hers, she made it clear there are to be no exceptions, unless she herself summons you." She looks up at you with an uninterested look. "I wouldn't have this job if I didn't follow the rules."
>You remembered when Twilight would always ask you questions about where you came from.
>When she asked you to tell her stories from back home.
>How she liked it when you stroked her mane.
"Fine then. Alright, so I just need to do this."
>'Hi Twilight, it's Anon you dork. C'mon out into the sunlight and see some friends before you become a permanent basement dweller! Sorry, I miss hanging out with you, let's grab something  to eat sometime and catch up? Yours, Anon.'
>Done.
>"Thank you Anonymou- you haven't ticked whether or not this is an urgent matter or not."
>For crying out loud.
"Make it urgent. Please."
>"Okay, once it's been  approved I'll send a letter of confirmation with an appointment date and time to you by courier, if they aren't able to find you it'll be in your room."
>She carries on writing, sorting and filing away the forms all around her.
"Er… Thank you?"
>"…"
>You walk out the room and slam your head against the wall, causing one of the guards to peek out at you.

>You are Rarity.
>You wouldn't have had the day any other way.
>The way Pyrite took you into her cloak and protected you from those other ponies.
>If only she were a stallion, you would be all over her.
>But then… would it really matter?
"Oh stop it Rarity, a lady shouldn't fantasise about these… things."
>You remembered that time when you went to your favourite café.
>It seemed like Pyrite was genuinely surprised by the taste of coffee.
>You couldn't help but stare at her delicate manner of sipping her coffee.
>Those dark, soft lips.
>What was a little secret that you kept to yourself was something you only happened to see by chance.
>Pyrite has fangs.
>It didn't come off as a horrible shock, but rather surprising one.
>Imagine what she could do with those fangs, her tongue tracing up and down your neck, her fangs biting down on your neck.
"Ah Pyrite…" You drift off. "Ah! No, Rarity! I am a lady and fashionista foremost!"
>That's right, you needed to work your magic.
>Stepping back into your Canterlot boutique, you turned over the 'Closed' sign.
>Using magic to set your raw materials into organised groups and setting a mannequin in the centre, you were able to begin your work, no your art!
>Pulling out the small scroll, it had simple instructions as to how you should join the materials together.
>Pyrite gave you the creative liberty to stylise it.
>Firstly, the metal alloy, a new material that you've never worked with before.
>Then there was that special blend of enhanced wool and rare gems.
"Okay," you took in a deep breath. "Time to work."
>You envisioned Pyrite in your mind, beneath her cloak and veil, you envisioned a beautiful mare.
>A long, sleek neck.
>A long, dark curly mane.
>Her flank and legs, both strong and sleek.
>They all gave a sense of superior build, more of an Wonderbolt's physique mixed with the shape of a model.
>In fact, she was beautiful, and you were, unashamedly, infatuated with her.
>This gave rise to a new idea, a perfect blend between metal and fabric.
>An unconventional, innovative blend between soft and hard materials.
>Feeling your creative muse fill to the brim with you, you burst into action, sketching various designs and shapes.
>…
>Ignoring the various knocks from your shop door, you were able to come up with various concepts.
>You were even able to put together a prototype.
"Alright Rarity, talk to me, what do we have here?"
>You place the tiara helm hybrid on top of the mannequin.
"A thin tiara, light as a feather yet fashioned to accentuate her eyes, her horn and compliment her mane."
>Next thing you place together is the collar, made of the same material.
"A collar, to draw attention to her sleek neck up to her face, like a sprouting flower."
>The chest piece is a mixture of metal, fabric and a large, expertly polished crimson jewel.
"The breastplate creates a sense of ferocity, importance and elegance."
>And flowing from it, a rich, dark cape with a white fur lining.
"This will help balance the front heavy design with a soft, alluring and warm cloak."
>And the final touch, knee high boots made of both metal and fabric.
"The ultimate comfort, stylish and functional."
>You nod as you look at the complete outfit, trying to envision Pyrite's reaction…
>… and how she must look moving around in it.
"Oh Rarity, you've simply outdone yourself!"
>Your heart was beating, but what was it?
>Upon closer look, something about this outfit was… off.
>Like you've seen it somewhere before.
>~"Rarity…."~
"Who's there?"
>Silence.
>When you look outside the window, you realise how dark it's become.
"H-how long has it been?"
>You look at the clock on the wall..
>You swore it was still early morning.
>Time really flies by when you're working.
>You let out a yawn, and the fatigue finally setting in.
"Hmm maybe I should treat myself to that scrumptious bottle of wine."
>Knock, knock, knock.
>Who could that be at this time?

>You are Queen Umbra under the name of Pyrite.
>You appear before Rarity at her Canterlot boutique.
>"P-Pyrite?" Whatever brings you here?"
"Hello Rarity, I wanted to see how you were doing with the outfit." You push past her.
>"B-b-but it's not ready yet!" Rarity scrambles over to you. "Oh and I haven't even tidied up the place, please Pyrite!"
>You stop to eye the white pony.
"Rarity, all I care about is the end result."
>You lean into her.
"And I thought we didn't have worry about such, trivial things."
>You see her blush and gulp.
>"Well, I mean sure we've getting along just great, b-but-"
"'But?'"
>Your eyes lock into hers.
>Your eyes glow green as you cast a simple spell.
>"Ah… nothing Pyrite, I'm terribly sorry for keeping you outside for so long. Would, you like to come in?"
>You lean in close to her ear and whisper, "It would be my pleasure Rarity."
>You walk in through the shop floor a see several mannequins with her dresses on them.
>Rarity, caught in a gaze, snaps to and quickly comes to your side.
>You can see and appreciate her skill, despite some of the designs being somewhat gaudy.
>Noticing Rarity's eyes focused on you, you nod as a sign of approval and carry on towards the lit room at the end of the floor.
>As you imagined it would be, the room is scattered with material cuttings, tools and papers.
"You've certainly been busy here."
>"Well, yes I had a sudden inspiration and started to work. Though, I never expected anypony, especially you, to come here at this time."
>You look over to the centre mannequin.
>It really does resemble it.
>You walk around, inspecting the minor details.
>The curves in her design are expertly shaped and the inclusion of the gems only enhance the features.
>"Well… how do you find it?" She leaned over towards you with an anxious look.
"How soon do you think you'll be done?"
>"All I need is to get the alloy metal treated and fitted, which could take a couple days, then it'll take a couple nights for me to put it all together."
>As you expected, you'll have to be careful from now on.
"Rarity, I must say, you've done a remarkable job. I… really appreciate the hard work that you're putting into this."
>You look at her straight in the eyes.
>This causes her to blush and stammer.
>"I-I-I, well, this is what friends do! I mean, what friends are for!"
>She's trying to use it as an excuse.
>... though you do find it somewhat charming.
"And would a friend be willing to drop everything at the whim?"
>"O-of course."
"To somepony that you've only just met."
>"... y-yes."
"Then perhaps I should be a bit more open to you."
>"Huh? Pyrite, whatever do you mean?"
>You walk past her and undo your veil, pulling back your hood as you do so.
>The clasp around your neck loosens, allowing your cloak to fall.
>"P-P-Pyrite wha-"
>You're naked, standing with your flank towards her.
"Why, aren't you going to measure me?" You grin.
>You can hear her nervously laugh.
"I won't bite." You tease.
>You stand still, carefully eyeing Rarity.
>It seems like she's still unaware.
>Good.
>Rarity approaches you with a slight hesitation, measuring tape magically held high.
>Standing firm, you were curious as to what'd she'd do.
>"O-okay Pyrite, this won't take too long."
>Rarity took a deep breath to calm herself down, and approached you, holding the tape to measure your legs.
>"Hmm."
>She then wraps the tape around your chest.
>Rarity inches closer to you to read the measurement.
>"You know, you have such a wonderful physique."
"I have been told. But few have seen me in such a state."
>She brings the tape up in front of you to measure your front.
>Her eyes briefly catches sight of yours, causing her to blush.
>"I- forgive me." Rarity looks away.
>This could be amusing.
>You lean forward and press your lips against hers.
>Her eyes shot wide open, before closing and taking in the kiss.
>A new idea crept into your mind.
>As you move your lips away from hers, Rarity briefly opens her eyes.
>You continue your attack, kissing her cheek, leading a line to below her ear.
>Your subject is now at your whim.
>Rarity moans.
>You kiss her neck, then sink your fangs into her.
>"Ah!"
>A playful bite, but enough to cause pain.
>You follow it up with a kiss to the sore area.
>Your subject is enjoying this…
>… as do you.
>You push her up against the table, spilling the contents onto the floor.
>"P-Pyrite, w-we shouldn't, w-we're mares…"
"… so?"
>You use your hooves and pin her down, leaning close to her flicking ear.
"What are you going to do about it?" You whisper as your hot breath touches her ear.
>Just a bit more and-
>You hear the shop's front door unlock and open, hitting the doorbell.
>"Rarity? Are you in?"
>~"WHO DARES INTERVENE!"~

>You are Anon.
"Celestia please protect me." You circle yourself.
>Taking what little courage you have left, you ventured back out into Canterlot.
>No sign of Cream Crackers or of your trousers coming off.
>And with all that's been going on, there was no way you were able to talk to any mare on the street.
>You felt pretty bad that you couldn't see Twilight in the way you two used to.
>Now you wonder how the Elements of Harmony would work.
>Though there was still one pony.
>One that seemed to welcome you, with respect and in a mature manner.
>Rarity.
>I mean, she did make you all those clothes and shoes when you first came to Equestria, right?
>Perhaps she can help you out if you talk to her.
>Perhaps even she could snap some sense into Twilight and get her to take a break from whatever it was she was researching.
"Oh well, I guess it's off to Rarity's!"
>On your way there, you spot an open flower stall with an assortment of coloured flowers.
>As you come closer, the aroma hits you.
>In the corner of your eye, one shade hits you.
>Rarity would love these purple roses.
>You can't wait to see her face when she sees them.
"Hey can I get a bunch of the purple roses?"
>"Hey coming right up!" The flower mare smiles. "That'll be four bits!"
"Four bits?!" You stammer.
>"Hey now, just because we're in Canterlot or you're some other species doesn't mean I charge more because I can." She crosses her forearm. "These are four bits because they are the best purple roses you can get in all of Canterlot! I guarantee it!"
>You sigh.
"Fine, then could you please just wrap it up then?"
>"Sure thing!"
>The flower mare quickly puts a paper wrap and ribbon around the roses.
"That'll be anoth-"
"I'll be sure to let her know about your flowers, she's a very famous fashionista."
>You cut her off, grabbing the bunch of roses and start pelting it down the street.
>…
>When you arrive at Canterlot Boutique, you're surprised to see that her store is closed.
"That's odd."
>You try peering in through the darkened windows, trying to see if there are any lights on.
>You see nothing.
>You knock several times, nothing still.
>Just as you're about to shout, you hear a voice call out to you.
>"Excuse me, fine… monkey. Are you looking for the one called Rarity?"
>You turn around and see a stallion wearing in a waiter's uniform with a broom.
"Why yes, I'm one of her friends."
>"Ah, I see. The store's been closed since midday, has been ever since I was my shift break…"
>He stops brushing with the broom, turning to you with a smile.
>"Care to have a drink or something to eat? I'm sure she'll be back soon."
>Well, you didn't really want to head back all for nothing.
>The café was right opposite her boutique.
>And you did feel a little hungry.
>What's the worst that could happen?
"Alright then, a table for one please."
>"Right this way Sir!"
>You find a seat by the window with a perfect view of the boutique's front door.
>Looking at the menu, you're surprised that some of the prices aren't too expensive and that they serve for other species.
"Excuse me! Um, this sandwich…"
>"Why yes, the ham sandwich." The waiter informs you.
"Is that… really ham?"
>"… yes it is. We cater for other species in the hopes that we do not discriminate against others."
>This is new for you.
>The only sort of food like this you could enjoy was usually specially prepared for you back in the Canterlot Castle kitchen, you remembered it because of the griffon ambassadors.
>And even then, it was highly implied that you weren't to eat meat in front of the princesses.
>Maybe it might be good to give it a go.
"Alright, I'll go for that and some black coffee please."
>"Coming right up sir!"
>The waiter comes by with a jug of freshly brewed coffee and your sandwich.
>Your senses are tingling.
"Wait a minute." You tell the waiter.
>You pick up the cup of coffee, and smell it.
>Instinctually you take a sip and swallow.
>A smile forms over your face as the flavour spreads over your taste buds.
"You know this is, excuse me, a damn fine cup of coffee."
>The waiter looks at you with an upturned brow.
>"Please enjoy your meal."
>…
>You felt pretty full, and the meal was great.
>The ham was a bit tough, but it was spiced and the combination of green leaf, cheese and bread made it a perfect match.
>Though, when you asked for the bill, the service charge was, to put it lightly, ridiculous.
>5 bits!
>Now you were sure to take your leisurely time after paying for all that.
>And asking for refills.
>You made sure to keep an eye out on the front door of boutique, when you saw a light coming from inside the building.
"No… way."
>She was in all this time?
>Or maybe you missed her when she got in…
>You get up quickly, making sure you grab your flowers and walk out of the café.
>You try knocking at the door.
>Odd.
>Rarity wasn't coming out.
>Oh well she wouldn't have left the door un-
>You turn the handle and you hear the door click open.
>… unlocked?
>It's strangely quiet inside.
"Rarity? Are you in?" You call out.
>There's a light at the end of the floor.
>… has it suddenly gotten cold in here?
>… what is this pressure that you're feeling?
"Er… Hello? Rarity? I brought flowers!
>Still nothing.
>You gulp.
>Images race through your mind of Rarity becoming distraught and turning to one of her alcoholic binges.
>Another image you find Cream Crackers leaving the crime with Rarity lying on the floor with cream and crackers stuffed inside her mouth.
>No scratch that last one.
>That would never happen, would it?
>You slowly approach the door when you sense something dark flicker past behind the door.
>Okay something is up in here…
>… and it's not good.
>You sense something creep up behind you.
>On instinct you turn and do a roundhouse kick.
>Your leg tears through... something.
>You catch the glimpse of a shadow with two red eyes just before it evaporates into thin air.
>… what was that!?
>You've never seen anything like that before, but you know one thing.
>You're afraid.
>Readying your stance, you kick the door wide open.
"Rarity are you okay…?!"
>You find a dark mare pinning Rarity down on the table.
>But she's not in danger, instead it looks like she's in ecstasy.
"Oh. Crap."
>The figure pulls back quickly, picking up her cloak and covering herself.
>"Ah… Ah…" Rarity snaps from her trance. "Ah… Anonymous!"
>You slam the door shut.
>Was Rarity…  just getting it on with another mare?
>Your cheeks flush red.
>You knew she was a popular mare, but seriously now.
>Oh man, and what about Spike?
>If he ever found out...
>"A-Anonymous, you may come in now." Rarity calls out.
>Turning around to face the door you take a deep breath and slowly open it.
>You find a hoof flying at your face before you can react, hitting you straight in the eye.
"OW!" You bend over clutching your eye.
>"That was for your intrusion." Spoke the dark, cloaked mare.
>She quickly follows it up by striking you in the stomach.
>"That was for your rudeness, didn't they ever teach you how to knock?"
"Pyrite, please! He's… not that sort of a stallion." She blushes.
>Rarity comes to your side and helps steady you up.
>Wait…
>That voice.
>That cloak.
>Trying to ignore the searing pain of her strikes, you try to remember.
"H-hey, don't I, know you from somewhere?"
>The figure turns to face you briefly before turning away.
>"I have no ide-"
"Th-that night."
>The figure freezes.
>She turns to approach you, and with blistering speed she leaps at you.
>But this time, you're prepared.
>You take just one step back just before she can even lay a hoof on you.
>You grab hold of her forearm, reversing her lunge into throw her back into the room.
>Though instead of crashing, she recovers mid-air and lands safely on the ground.
"You're pretty good." You cough out.
>"I could say the same for you."
>"Oh Anonymous, please!" Rarity forces herself between you two. "Pyrite, you too."
>Both of you look at the her.
>The cloaked mare, Pyrite, lowers her stance.
>Eventually, you do the same.
>"I'm, sorry, for my behaviour dear Rarity." Pyrite bows slightly. "And for 'greeting' your friend."
>You know she's not being sincere.
"Yeah, likewise."
>"I will take my leave tonight, we will talk soon Rarity." She leans in closely to Rarity's cheek and brushes against it lightly.
>"W-won't you stay the night?"
>"I'm afraid not." Pyrite turns your way. "Anonymous, was it?"
"Pyrite."
>Her eyes narrow at you.
>The same eyes you remembered that night.
>The ones hiding a devious smile.
>She walks past you, and just like before, disappears into the darkness of the boutique floor.
>Only the bell of the front door signals her leave.
>You then drop on one knee, she really did a number on you.
>"Oh Anonymous." Rarity walks up to you.
>And slaps you across your cheek.
"Ow! Hey what was that for-"
>You're cut off by the white pony hugging you.
>"That was for being un-gentlemanly." She releases you. "It's been far too long, would you like to take a seat?"
"Uh… sure."
>You pull out that bouquet of purple roses, half of which are crushed.
"Uh… here's a gift. I thought it would've been a nice surprise."

>You are Umbra.
>And you were furious.
>To be so close to gaining another foothold…
>And yet you were thwarted by that 'Anonymous' creature.
>He may even disclose your true identity.
>You re-emerge from the shadows, just outside your hideout.
>The shadow portal is unstable and collapses shortly after you exit.
>You stagger slightly.
>You'll need more magic if you are to keep this up.
>You knock on the door, and in a moment a pair of bright yellow eyes greets you.
>"Mistress! Welcome home - are you alright!?"
>Silver Lining is panicking.
>Of course she must be, seeing you unable to stand up straight up.
"Help me sit down, I need to rest for a while."
>"Yes of course mistress!"
>Silver Lining locks the door behind you and rushes underneath one of your forearms to support you.
>How miserable you must look.
>You arrive into the lounging room, and you're surprised.
>Silver Lining had gotten some new furniture, a red couch, a large, high pile rug and a clothes stand.
"My cloak."
>"Yes mistress." She smiles as she sets you down on the couch.
>She undoes your cloak with her mouth, before neatly hanging it on the stand.
>"Would you like some refreshments?"
>You nod as you lean back into the sofa.
>Silver Lining cleaned up and lit the fireplace.
>Looking at the dancing flames, you thought back to your own fireplace.
>Back in the Crystal Kingdom, you had power, both magical and physical strength, an army and citizens to care for.
>More importantly, it stood as a testament for the shadow ponies.
>A dying pony race.
>Ponies that were hated for their 'evil' looks.
>Ponies hated for eating meat.
>Ponies forced to live in the cold wilderness of the north.
>Ponies that could use magic that was considered only to be 'evil'.
>… how absurd it was for them to rename it as the Crystal Empire.
>But it didn't belong to you anymore.
>It was part of their empire.
>A lost kingdom.
>"Mistress? Mistress wake up."
>You stir from your thoughts.
"What is it?"
>Before you lies a tray of pastries and a pot and cup of winter tea.
"Thank you Silver Lining."
>Silver Lining smiles.
>"I wish I could do more to help you mistress."
>You take a sip of the winter tea.
>The flavour is unique among the tea leaves in Equestria, it's refreshing with a hint of bitterness and sweetness from the cream milk.
"There is one thing you can do for me."
>"Anything mistress! You can count on me!"
"I need you to go to Canterlot Castle for me tomorrow."
>"Why whatever for mistress?"
"You are to enter my name into the job application." You pick up a pastry and start nibbling on it. "I do not have all the necessary pieces in place, so I want you to go instead."
>"A-are you sure? Won't this be risky?"
"Yes, it will be risky but we cannot afford to lose this opportunity. Everything counts on us being able to get inside the castle."
>Silver Lining lifted her hoof up in thought, then smiled with her outcome.
>"Very well mistress. The bath should be ready for you now."
"Thank you, Silver Lining."
>You finish your tea and pastry and give the rest to Silver Lining.
>You walk down the gloomy corridor leading towards the bathroom.
>As you open the door, you find a large old tub filled with hot soapy water.
>Not as extravagant as your walk-in bath back in the Crystal Kingdom, but this will do.
>Finding a mirror on the wall, you take off your bands and shake free your mane as look at your complexion.
>Red and green eyes stare back at you.
>Your darkened eyelids only help accentuate the colour of your eyes.
>To another pony, this would be a terrifying sight, especially when you were using magic, a purple mist would appear from your eyes.
>How long has it been since you're seen another shadow pony?
>With all those years within that crystal, slowly regenerating your body.
>Most were probably taken prisoners, driven further north, or in the worse scenario, slaughtered.
>You grimaced at the thought.
>Turning on the hot shower head you rinse your body over.
>The water droplets fall like rain, wetting your mane down and cleansing you over.
>You magic up some shampoo and begin the process of lathering and combing through your mane.
>The motion reminds you of your mother, a long gone memory of a once powerful king and queen.
>She would always help you bath and lather your mane when you were young, and she would smile and sing a sweet lullaby.
>Once you were satisfied with your hair, you stepped into the hot bath, sliding down until you neck downwards was submerged.
>You allow the heat to work its way through your muscle and bone.
>Perhaps you were able to relax for once, and perhaps you'll be able to see the end of all this injustice.

>You are Anon.
>Rarity was pretty upset with your bad timing.
>What would've made it complete was if it had explosion and blaring horns.
>You sat down on chair with a bag of ice over your eye.
>On the other end of the table sat Rarity.
>She levitates a tea set over to the table and pours you a cup.
>Though she was trying her best to avoid eye contact with you.
>Best try and change the mood.
"So, Rarity, how have you been?"
>"Fine. Just fine."
>Great.
"Look, the door was left unlocked an-" You sigh. "Hey I've just been missing my friends."
>Rarity moves to look at you.
"You know, Twilight's been locking herself away in the library, and all the other girls are back in Ponyville."
>"Oh, you can be such a big oaf at times, you know that Anonymous?"
>You laugh and rub your neck.
>You look over at the few undamaged roses in the vase.
>Rarity follows your gaze and smiles.
>"Though, I must thank you for those roses. They simply are beautiful."
"They complement your mane."
>She giggles.
"And who's the lucky mare? Pyrite was it?"
>She blushes naturally.
>"Ah!" She tenses up. "Well, I suppose the cat is out of the bag now, though don't you dare tell anypony about this!"
"I promise I won't!" You raise your hands up. "Though you know what? I'm happy to see that you've got a special somepony."
>She giggles and looks away from your inquisitive eyes.
>"I, well, it all happened so quickly. Especially before you came barging in."
>You smile and lean back.
>But it occurs to you, that something was wrong.
"Hey, when you were, ahem, with Pyrite, did you sense anything… different?"
>"Different? I-I, I don't know what you're insinuating Anon-"
"No nothing like that! I mean, like did it feel cold? Or was there…"
>Rarity tilts her head at you.
>"Anonymous, before Pyrite arrived I've been working on her outfit the entire time. Though, I was surprised how time quickly went by, but anything else I would've noticed it."
"I see…"
>So, what was that thing back there?
>"Anonymous?"
"Well, maybe my mind was playing tricks on me, y'know? I saw something when I was in the shop floor."
>"Wh-what was it?"
"… a ghost."
>Rarity gives you  a dead look.
>"Oh Anonymous, stop being so dramatic!" She laughs.
"No really, it had red eyes!"
>"I, well, from all the time I've been living here I've never experienced anything of that kind."
"Oh… really?"
>"I'm quite certain Anonymous. Plus, even though I am a lady, I can take care of myself."
"Ah… Maybe my mind was just playing tricks on me."
>She nods.
>"Maybe you thought you saw something because of something bad that's recently happened to you."
>Cream Crackers.
>No way.
>She couldn't do that, could she?
>"Anonymous? Are you alright? You're sweating."
"Ah that reminds!" You clap your hands. "The reason I'm here is, well, due to a certain mare at the castle, I need your help in finding somepony."
>"Oh? Whatever for?"
"A job. Well specifically a castle maid."
>Rarity's ears twitched.
"Anonymous, you need not worry!"
>Huh?
>"I know the perfect pony! She's sweet, gentle and has a strong set of morals."
"W-why that's great Rarity! What's her name? When can I meet her?"
>"Hmm, well, I'm afraid you'll have to find out. Don't worry Anonymous, I'll tell her all about it! I'm sure she'll be ecstatic!"
>Phew.
>Your days worrying over Cream Crackers are over.
"Alright then, I'll leave it to you."
>Anypony, especially one suggested by a friend, couldn't be any worse than her.
>You glance over to her work room.
"Seems like you've really been busy."
>"You know it's rude to intrude into a lady's business, considering how much you've already done."
>You gulp.
"Yeah, well I'm glad to see you're doing fine at least. Have you… spoken to Twilight recently?"
>She sets down her cup.
>"Hmm, well it has been a while now since I've seen her. She was going on about some new found discovery before she went inside her library."
"Wow huh. That serious."
>"Yes… Hmm I think I'll sent her a message soon."
"Oh yeah, right, won't that take about a week before she gets it?"
>"What? Oh no darling, I can send a message direct to her."
>"Wait what. When were you ever able to do that? Wasn't that Spike?"
>Ah.
>She looks down, guess I shouldn't have mentioned him.
>"Well I learnt it from both Twilight and… from Spike. But you're right, I guess I've just been very, preoccupied."
"If you do sent a message, give her my regards and tell her to come out to see the sun."
>Rarity giggles.
>"I will Anon. Oh my, will you look at the time. It's gotten awfully late."
"Yeah it has."
>"Why don't I see you out, I imagine that you've got a very busy time ahead of you with this maid hunt."
"Thanks Rarity, you're a star."
>"Goodnight Anonymous. And remember what I said."
"I-I, yeah don't worry about it."
>You give Rarity a quick hug before leaving the boutique.
>The cool night air hits you.
>You breath in deeply and begin walking back to the castle.
>Unaware of a certain shadow peeking out from behind the building.
>...
>Finally you were back inside the Canterlot Castle gates.
>Though you couldn't get over the feeling that you were being watched on the way back from Rarity's.
>And there was a strange crumble of moist, glistening biscuits that you accidentally stepped onto when you walked out Rarity's boutique door.
>Well, brushing that a side (you literally had to), you had tomorrow to look forward to.
>Anypony recommended by a friend should be great!
>You envisioned that, if you were lucky, there'd be a cute, sensible mare.
>Even the formal Canterlot maid uniform was something spectacular.
>A black and white frilly uniform, with a white apron and white bonnet.
>The skirt was neither long nor too short, considering how most ponies never really did wear clothes.
>Okay hold your horses there Anon.
>At least she should be pleasant to be around.
>That's the ideal maid.
>And not anything with an infatuation towards you.
>Or your lower area.
"Oh please Celestia."
>…
>Wait a second, Celestia?
"Oh cra-"

>You are Celestia.
>At the dining hall you had three seats set up, you were in the centre, Luna was to your left and there was a vacant seat to your right.
>"Dearest sister, I think we've waited long enough for our host."
"Now Luna, he wanted to have a talk with the two of us since we've not had time due to our busy schedules."
>You took a sip from your teacup.
"Besides, I'm sure he'll be here any minute."
>"Sister, we've been waiting here and idle chitchatting for nearly forty minutes."
"Thirty by my count."
>"The point is our patience is running thin. And… our stomach longs for our evening dinner." Luna looks down at the empty plate in front of her.
>"If we were to suspect something, we think that our dearest sister has gotten soft."
"Luna."
>"What pray tell? If this were any other ambassador or royal meeting you'd have had the foal thrown in the dungeons." Luna took sip from her mug. "Or perhaps that is something that you wish to do?"
"Luna!"
>"Is that what our dearest sister dreams?"
>You glare at her with fire in your eyes.
"Luna, if you make any other false accusation or rumour, I will personally have you sent to work without a meal."
>"Forgive us sister, we are merely jesting to pass the time."
>You sigh and levitate your cup to take another sip.
>It's empty.
>"Would you like some more tea your highness?" A maid spoke out.
"No it's fine, thank you. I think Luna is right, we should get dinner started. Oh, a bottle of red wine."
>"At once your highness."
>Luna raises a brow.
>"Dearest sister, we do not wish to be privy, but perchance you're… angry?"
>You glare at your sister.
>You couldn't care less what the other servants were feeling in that room.
>Especially the poor maid that had to try and calmly pour out a glass of red wine in front of you.
>Luna can be a bit too much at times.
>And she's not dumb either.
>"Did we… touch upon something delicate?"
"I will not say any more. And speaking off which…"
>You hear several vases breaking in the distance, followed and running and shouting.
"Seems like our host has finally arrived."
>Anonymous bursts through the dining room door, panting, sweating and a little bit dirty all over.
>"Anonymous, how nice it is for you to finally come down to join us for dinner." Luna states.
>You could see Anonymous gulp and attempt to catch his breath.
>Better help him out.
>You levitate Anonymous over to the vacant seat to your right, all the while cleaning him up and plucking out some flowers from his head.
"Aw, Anon, you brought flowers." You turn to a maid. "Would you kindly put this into a small vase for me."
>"Yes, your highness."
 >You catch sight of Luna rolling her eyes.
"So Anon, what kept you?"
>You notice the his face is slightly swollen.
"Are you… alright?"
>"Ah, well, I went to catch up with Rarity and then, this and that happened."
"Oh…" You prepare to stand up.
>"Yeah she's doing great actually!" Anon raises his hands. "She's pretty busy as usual. And no, this… was all my fault… by accident…."
>You stand still.
>"Though all I really wanted was some help in finding somepony, if she had somepony in mind that would be perfect for the maid position, and it seems as though she has."
"That's wonderful Anon." You sit back down.
>You can sense Luna's inspecting eyes upon you.
>Thankfully a line of servants came in bringing in hot dishes of food for the three of you.
"Oh great, I'm fainting, I mean starving. Oh boy."
>"Ahem, we would like to toast this glorious dinner night to our beloved host, Anonymous, and to our dearest sister, Celestia."
>Sigh.
"Yes of course, dear sister. Anon?"
>"Ahem, yes to our good health, friendship and to our future together."
>You take a light sip as you watch Anon take the whole glass down.
>Instantly he starts coughing and spitting the wine everywhere.
>"Isn't he just charming sister?" Luna leans on one hoof and draws circles on the table with the other. "Unable to hold his drink, though we can see that he is able to fend for himself at the very least."
>Anon laughs nervously.
>"I have you to thank for all those late nights being together, I mean working, I mean training together!"
>Luna can't help but laugh at Anon.
>And you are not amused.
>"We think it would be best if you continued your training."
>"And I think you still need to work on 'thy' speech." Anon grins.
>This left Luna with a bit of a blush.
"Ahem, Luna, I think that's quite enough. You've played with Anon long enough."
>Anon smiles are you and Luna just looks even redder now.
"So, Anon, tell me, what made you want a dinner date with your princesses?"
>Anon now turns the same colour as Luna.
>"Ah, date? Well yes, I mean no, well… I was also hoping that Twilight would be here to join, but I guess I just feel like we haven't had time to just hang out, you know just the us guys."
"Oh?"
>"Yeah, without all those formalities or worrying about the problems in court, I guess I'm still not used to Equestrian royal life."
>Anon starts rubbing his neck.
>"And well, so that I can also thank you both for helping me out so many times."
>"Nonsense Anonymous, we do not see such need, especially since you are the only hu-" You throw an apple tart at Luna. "Ow! Sister?!"
"Well Anon, you don't need you to thank us, rather we both should be thanking you for helping us in our times of need, and for helping the girls out."
>You lean in and smile at him.
"If anything, I… owe it to you."
>"Oh, you don't have to be so generous Celestia."
>You could hear the sadness in his voice.
>This… wasn't what you wanted.
"I…" You hesitate. "I meant what I said back then Anon, if you ever need anything I'll be here for you."
>For a moment you could see Luna's shock.
>Anon is unable to respond to your comment.
"Anyway let us enjoy our food."
>"Yeah let's dig in." Anon agrees.
>"Anonymous, we do not understand, what do you mean by 'let's dig in'?" Luna holds her head up high.
>You and Anon can't help but supress your laughter.

>You are Celestia.
>You've just bid yourself goodnight to both your sister and Anon.
>There was something refreshing about how Anon came in, even though he was late.
>You chuckle to yourself.
"I'm sure he meant no ill intent in being late."
>Inside your bedchambers, you approach the dressing mirror.
>You magic off your crown, breastplate and shoes.
>Looking back at yourself in the mirror, you see a younger Celestia.
>Full of joy, hope…
>… and full of naivety.
>You discard the image and walk over to your desk.
>Usual reports lay scattered around.
>The most recent one being of unusual attacks in and around the Canterlot area.
>Most likely dissidents towards the diarchy rule.
>You turn them over and look outside the window.
>Luna's sky once again hung over all of Equestria.
>Stars that glint and gleam.
>The moon that's awe inspiring, illuminating…
>… and comforting.
"Oh, sister."
>You can't imagine that you had banished your own sister to the moon for a thousand years.
>And for a thousand years, you too, had suffered.
>Not only from the hardship of being burdened by the work of two sisters.
>Nor from keeping the empire together despite the banishment…
>… it was the loneliness.
>Many days you would wake up alone, go through the day and at times even at night to make sure the empire was stable, all by yourself.
>Even trying to keep your enemies unaware of your inability to wield the Elements of Harmony.
>It was as though they had judged you unfit.
>Sometimes you wondered how strong you really were.
>You walk into the bathroom and stepped inside your hot bathtub.
>It was scented with roses, lavender and peaches.
>Many other ponies would try and help you, even stallions, ones that you knew had ulterior motives would flirt and make grand gestures towards you.
>But you would not have it.
>This was your mistake.
>This was your own atonement.
>You remembered facing Luna's royal night guard, all present and standing before you.
>How they would not bow, nor would they leave.
>How they faced you, even though their princess was banished.
>The shame and anger they would've felt, and how they would not yield to your any of commands or royalty.
>There was only one thing left that you could do, and that was to leave them on their own until your sister returned.
>If they would not have accepted that, you would've allow them to attack first.
>But they would surely know they would lose to a celestial princess.
>You closed your eyes to block out the unpleasant memories.
>You got out of the bathtub, rubbing yourself dry.
>The same old routine.
>A task both you and your sister had to endure, for the ages to come.
>Now that peace has been achieved, perhaps now you can forgive yourself and your sister.
>Perhaps, like Anon, you're not alone anymore in this world.
>Even for a fleeting moment in your endless time, you could be happy.
>Perhaps with Anon.

>You are Anon.
>You are… pretty drunk to be frank.
>You'll never know how strong that red wine was.
>Only that you know what Rarity feels like, perhaps even more so.
>They seem crazy strong for such small ponies.
>You manage to get through to your room, sliding and bouncing off the walls for support.
>You barge in through the door and kick it shut.
>You tear off your clothes and leap into bed, like a boss.
>Now in the darkness, you can forget about attempting to control your body.
>You can feel the alcohol coarse through your veins.
>The days event replays in your mind, as well as what you might have to do tomorrow.
"Celestia…" You mutter.
>She's been oddly concerned about you.
>Though, the same could be said about Luna.
>Did they…
"… pity me?" You laugh and lash out in your bed "Bah!"
>You try and ignore the thoughts.
>Then the memory of when you were looking at the moon with Celestia comes into view.
>It brings a smile to your face.
"Come to me, sweet… sweet sleep."
>Everything eventually turns to dark.
>…
>You are disturbed from your sleep.
>"Tis the morning hour Anonymous! We are here to greet-" Her eyes are follow a straight line downwards.
>Jeez why is she using her Canterlot voice, especially in the morning.
>You mind is attempting to make sense of things.
>You're sprawled out in your med, the covers just barely covering you and your boxers.
"Wh-what? Pri-Princess L-Luna!? Get out I'm sleeping here!"
>She's frozen in place, and still in the damn room.
>"Wha, why that's nonsense Anonymous! I am your Princess of the Night! You should be pleased for me to greet thee!" She's now flaring her wings out in the room.
>And she's still looking.
>Your head is throbbing.
>Enough is enough.
>You grab and throw your pillows at her in a consecutive manner, doing a 2-hit combo and causing her to fall back out of the room.
>Wait, did you just attack the Princess, the Princess of the Night a.k.a. former Nightmare Moon?
>"Anonymous! We that see you are in a fighting spirit! We shall gladly take thee on!"
"Oh no."
>You duck as blue laser blasts through the room destroying the wall behind you.
"For crying out loud Luna! Are you insane? What is going on with you?!"
>Ouch, your head is still throbbing from the wine last night.
>She stops mid-stance.
>"… are we not being entertained?" She tilts her head quizzically.
"I… huh? Wait a second, what are you…" You pause. "Is this a dream?"
>Luna sheepishly smiles.
>"It seems as though you are catching on Anonymous. Good."
>You sit up on what's left of your dream world bed and face palm with both hands.
"Oh Luna… You scared the daylight out of me."
>"We… noticed that thine spirits were down. So we decided to try to cheer thee up." She folds her wings and looks down. "We are still adjusting to these… different times. We… apologise."
>You look up and see her peeking at you.
>Well, at least this was just a dream, and that must mean you were still getting some sleep.
"What can I say? You made a pretty impressive hole in the wall there Princess."
>You turn to observe the illusionary destruction, noticing all the detail that went into the dust and stone particles.
>Then you saw the sky outside, it was the bright night sky, filled with stars and a moon brighter and more beautiful than anything you remembered back on earth.
"You always do make the nights beautiful."
>Luna faced away from you.
"So when are you going to let me wake me up? I'd rather we'd met in perso- in reality."
>"Very well Anonymous. We shall see thee soon. We… hoped tonight's meal was not in disdain." She folds her wings and the dream fades into black.
>"Sleep well, dear Anonymous."
>And everything fades to dark, again.

>You are Rarity.
>Today was pretty hectic.
>If the Canterlot spa was open you'd have gone, but for now you settled for a nice, bubble bath.
>After a leisurely wash, you slipped on your silk robe, the feeling of the soft fabric was a constant reminder of the finer pleasures of life.
>Speaking of pleasures, you couldn't get over how Pyrite was all over for you.
>Oh no, you shouldn't do it again, not since you've already done it in the bath.
>Your hoof follows your stomach down to your lower area.
>You're hesitant, yet the temptation was getting too much.
>You close your eyes and imagine that dark mare again.
>~"Rarity…"~
>Her looks never really quite matched her demeanour.
>And you, Rarity, shared that special side of her.
>You smiled and blushed at the special opportunity.
>You begin to imagine Pyrite, with her sultry voice, teasing you, whispering in your ears.
>All the while you try and resist her charm, her advances, her forceful nature.
>~"…oh? So what are you going to do about it?"~
>She bites down on your neck.
"Ah!"
>Pyrite grips onto your neck tightly, pulling you in towards her.
>You feel something stir in the shadows.
>Her free hoof massages your stomach, teasingly moving lower and lower.
>~"Hold still my dear, this will all soon be over..."~
>You sit up in bed, feeling rather quite hot now.
>Then it hits you.
"An idea… No, yes! This will be fantastic!"
>You jump out of bed and head to the workshop.
>An images flash through your mind, a new design, something that you overlooked.
>You magic over a cup of coffee, black.
>You lay down your sketching paper and begin scribbling out designs and ideas.
>You weren't tried anymore, but instead now you have new vigour.
"I can't wait to see Pyrite try it on."
>You bite your lower lip.
>The long night awaits you.

>You are Anon.
>You wake up.
>At least you think you really are awake this time.
>Luna pulled fast one on you last night.
>Though thankfully you don't feel hungover.
>Time to get up.
>As soon as you approach your closet to get a new set of clothes on, you look at the door, expecting somepony to break down the door.
>Nothing.
"Alright it's just pony, stop being so paranoid Anon, jeez."
>You open the closest to reveal the many pairs of shirts and jackets.
"Hmm I wonder what I should wear for today." You place a finger on your chin. "Ah this one will do nicely."
>They're all the same.
>"Ah-ah-Anon…" You hear that voice.
"Show yourself!" You turn around.
>The room is quiet.
>Okay, that was freaky.
>You go back to grabbing your clothes when you spot it.
"No, it can't be…"
>Inside your closet you find some crumbled crackers with some glistening moisture.
>You see it leads outside the closest.
>Dribble by dribble, crumb by crumb.
>You follow the path leading towards your bed.
>It stops just at your pillow.
"O-okay, whoever's down there, get out and there won't be any trouble."
>You wait for a response.
>Nothing.
>You couldn't even hear any breathing, but you had to be sure.
>Slowly crouching down, you gulp as you slowly begin to lift the bed covers.
>Nothing there.
>Just more crumbs and mucus.
"She couldn't have been sleeping there when I was…"
>This was the stuff of creepy stories you used to read online.
>Nope.
>Nope I did not see any of this.
>Nope today I am going to carry on as usual and find a suitable maid.
>Yes that's right.
>And you had the help of Celestia too.
>Checking everything over, you surveyed your room one last time.
>Yep, looks like it's all in good order.
>Wait, when did you open the window last night?
>This was the third floor of the castle.
>Nope.
>You just turned and left the room.
>And you made sure to tell the servants to have the room cleaned and locked down.

>You are Umbra.
>You wake up in a darkened room.
>In another unfamiliar room.
>Listening carefully you could hear the rumble of the industrial work.
>The once loud thumping beat of the city is now no more than a murmur.
"Silver Lining's really outdone herself."
>Rustling out of bed, you approach the windows.
>Using a hoof, you set apart the closed curtains and look outside.
>The sun has already risen, casting long shadows from the tall chimney buildings, like erected graves.
>Your hoof feels the fabric, looks like it's gotten a heavily insulated layer.
>You look at the walls, even they too have this special layer put all over it, though hastily hidden behind the wallpaper.
>You smile.
>Deciding that you would want to know your servant a bit better, you decide to exit your room and walk up to her room.
>You knock lightly.
>You can hear something stir inside but nothing else.
>Perhaps a peep will fine?
>You magically open the door, revealing a cramped bedroom, with a bed and a desk.
>You can hear the industrial heartbeat more loudly in this room.
>On the bed, you spot Silver Lining, laying in a somewhat undignified manner.
>She's happily snoring away, despite all the loud noise coming in through the window.
>You lean down and kiss her on her forehead.
"Silver Lining, it's time to wake up."
>"Mmm mistress, please no more…"
>You wonder what she's dreaming.
>You use your hoof and gently shake her awake.
"Silver Lining."
>She slowly blinks her eyes open.
>"Oh, my queen, this must be a dream…" She quickly blinks a few more times. "Mistress!"
"It's about time you woke up. As adorable as you look when you sleep we have a busy day ahead of us."
>"Y-yes mistress!"
>She's blushing heavily now.
>"What about you like for breakfast my mistress?"
"Just the usual Silver Lining." You turn and head out towards the door.
>…
"Silver Lining, how much do you know of Canterlot Castle?" You magic a pastry and coffee in the air.
>"I've surveyed the castle during the social events." Her smiles fade. "Though I couldn't really get inside and map it out without getting caught…"
>Silver Lining was sitting on your left with a respectable space between you two.
>"They have guards at every entrance and tower within the castle." She looks up at the ceiling as she holds her coffee cup in both hooves. "Oh, and they have an equal mixture of the pony species, earth ponies, unicorns and pegasi."
"What about the night guards?"
>"Oh, those are Princess Luna's personal guard…" She looks down. "I haven't seen them a lot, but I heard a lot of rumours surrounding them. That they're the ones that deal with really, really bad things."
>You think about the situation.
>Two sisters, one with equal or even greater celestial powers and a specialised army.
>This was not going to be any easy task.
>"Mistress?"
"Was there anything else? Perhaps a magic defensive barrier?" You look at her as she tries to find a way to answer you. "I know that you're an earth pony and that you aren't sensitive towards magic but I need to know."
>"I-I, I do remember that the gates seemed to shimmer, not only that the unicorns always seemed to be, well, talking to themselves."
"A detection barrier and real time communication and updates."
>You there has to be a way for you to get in.
>With your current magic signature, they would be able to detect you like a black sheep in a flock of white sheep.
"Thank you Silver Lining."
>"I-I hope my information was helpful, if you'd like I could go to the public library and look up so-"
"That won't be necessary. Chances are the information you'll find there will be falsified, outdated or simply missing."
>Silver Lining ears droops.
>"W-wow, that's amazing mistress. I wouldn't have thought of that."
>Nopony has lived for quite as long as you have.
>And nopony will ever be able to fully realise how much has changed, forged or entirely written out of existence.
>You gritted your teeth.
"Silver Lining, today I need you to go in my place, I'm sure you'll do well to get inside."
>"Yes mistress. If I may ask, what about you?"
"I will need to tie up some loose strings."
>B-but mistress, your magi-"
"Yes, Silver Lining, I know very well that I am not up to my former strength." You look down at your fore hoof. "That's exactly why I need to go."

>You are Rarity.
>And you were extremely exhausted.
>Your mane was dishevelled and out of place.
>And you probably needed another bath right now.
>But none the less, you were extremely happy with your work.
>Outside you could hear the morning birds tweet, and the sun slowly peering in through the cracks in the curtains.
>A blissful celebration to one of your most unique, and dare you say, risqué outfits.
>You walked up to the mannequin, imagining Pyrite in its place.
>You press your lips against the mannequins muzzle, where you imagine her lips returning the kiss.
>Perhaps a bit of tongue.
>You snap out of it.
"Oh," You laugh. "Oh dear Rarity, whatever's gotten over you."
>Still, you couldn't help but look at the design, it was influenced by the previous design, but without the need for all that hard metalwork.
>If anything, it was something to be worn underneath.
>Nodding your head, you walk back to the staircase up to go up to your bedroom.
>Then you past your writing desk, with a sheet of paper, inkwell and quill ready.
"Hmm, I did promise Anonymous that I'd write to Twilight."
>You imagine right now that she's in a similar state to yours, still awake and reading her books.
>The thought of it makes you giggle and decide to take a seat and start writing.
'Dearest Twilight,
I hope that you've been doing well, myself and Anonymous have been missing you already.
How long has it been since we've come all the way here to Canterlot? Over six lunar months now?
Well you'd be pleased to know that we're both still doing doing fine. We just miss your company and was hoping you'd be able to find some time outside of your, busy princess schedule, and spend some time with us.
Anonymous even says that you need to come out and shine in the sunlight.
He misses you.
I miss you.
Oh and I've found a fantastic way of combining both fabric and metal together, I've never quite seen anything like it but the results are fantastic! It's pretty exciting!
A new way of combining magic infused with metal! You really must see this exotic mare, I think I will have to introduce you to her.
Yours, Rarity XXX'
>Just as you finish writing, you magically roll up the scroll, create a wax stamp and magic it off to Twilight.
"Done."
>You turn towards the staircase when you hear somepony knocking at the door.
>You open the door ajar and start speaking.
"I'm sorry but we're closed right now."
>"You would close yourself off to me?"
"P-Pyri-"
>Just before you could finish calling out her name, Pyrite was pushing you back with a deep kiss.
>Your lips parted with hers and you could feel her hot, wet tongue wrestle against yours.
>You tried to take another step back, but Pyrite would continue, eventually wrapping her forearm behind your back to stop you moving.
>Tears appeared in your eyes.
>After a long minute, she broke off the kiss.
>You leaned against her chest, blushing heavily.
"Pyrite." You finally called out. "I thought of you."
>"I know you did."
"Wh-why are you here?"
>She walked past you, brushing her flank against yours.
>"I'm not sure that should be the question you should be asking."
>Your heart skipped a beat.
>No, no, no, Rarity.
>You've been awake too long and the sleep deprivation is getting to you.
>"Are you alright dear? It seems as though you're not quite all yourself.
"Huh? Wh-why yes… I mean, I stayed up all night. I'm sorry Pyrite, I'm awfully tired."
>She carries on walking towards your work room.
>You quickly close the front door and make sure the lock is on.
>"Rarity… " You hear her say.
>You quickly walk towards her.
>"Would you care to show me what it is that you've been working so hard on?"
>What was this, did she know you were thinking of her last night?
"Ahem, well…" You look at her red and green eyes and blush. "I suppose so."
>You walk past her and before opening the door, you turn around to face her.
"I must be honest, I… don't know what's gotten over me. Just that… I need this."
>Pyrite looks at you intently, before leaning down and closing her eyes.
>You push up and kiss her, this time gently.
"Surprise…" You with a heavy blush you open the door to reveal your latest design.
>Pyrite walks in and looks at the mannequin in the centre.
>It's looks like a one piece, something that goes up and under the forearms.
>Pyrite is inspecting it with such intensity.
"Ahem, this was something that I had specially designed for you."
>"Rarity, what is it? It's beautiful."
"I thought of mixing both the light and heavy materials together, creating something of a special… corset."
>Pyrite looks at you with an mischievous smile.
>"Perhaps you'd like to try and put it on, to make sure it fits."
>You bite your lower lip.
"O-of course darling."
>She slowly unbuttons her cloak, again letting it drop down in front of her.
>She then eyes you, looking at you with her neck turned back.
>"Would you do the honours? I'm afraid, I do not know how to put this on."
"Oh, you do it like this."
>Using your magic, you unravel and unclasp the corset from the mannequin.
>Then you magic it over to where Pyrite is standing, wrapping and strapping the piece in place.
>You can see Pyrite shift and move around in it.
>The metallic plates and dark fabric really compliment her fur.
>She spots you looking at her and struts over to you.
>"Rarity, this is perfect." She places both hooves on your shoulders. "I don't know how I should repay you."
"You've already paid more than enough for it darling." You hesitate and blush. "Though…"
>"I have a surprise of my own…"
>Pyrite leans beside you and covers both your eyes.
>You feel yourself levitate before settling down on carpeted floor.
>"Surprise." Pyrite whispers into your ear and releases her hooves.
"H-how did you know this was my room?" You utter. "How did we get up here so quickly?"
>Pyrite laughs.
>"There's a lot you don't know about me…" She walks over to your bed. "Perhaps you'd like to find out?"
>You were feeling delirious, was this really happening?
>You walk up to the edge your bed and sit down.
"Pyrite," you begin. "I… just want to make sure… of us."
>Pyrite pushes you down and pins you on the bed.
>"Do go on."
"I-I-I mean, how can I be sure this isn't just a spur of the moment?"
>"Don't worry, you will be mine."
>And with that, you were silenced.
>Pyrite kisses you gently on your lips, before parting them with her tongue.
>You sense her deep kiss, as your tongues flicker and wrestle over each other.
>Breaking away, you take a few deep breaths.
>Pyrite continues kissing your cheek, then nibbling against your ear.
"Ah, Pyrite." You moan.
>She only giggles in reply.
>Like a weak spot being exploited, you feel yourself weaken, your ear becoming unbearably sensitive.
>She moves down, kissing your neck.
>You tense up, preparing for her to bite down.
>But it never happens.
>You open your eyes and look back at the pair of red and green eyes.
>Full of mischief.
>"Tell me what you want."
"Wha-what Pyrite."
>"Tell me what you want."
"I-I…
>"You're going to have to do better than that."
"I want you to bite me!" You shout out.
>"Good girl."
>With that, Pyrite plunges down, biting down on your neck.
>You squirm from the sensation, its pain is bliss and a new raw feeling.
>You try and return the kiss to Pyrite, though she never relents.
>"Let's try something… new."
"Wh-ah!" You found yourself spun upside down to Pyrite.
>Her lower area right above you.
>So this is what a mare looks like.
>You can feel her breathing hot air in between your rear legs, licking, kissing and biting.
>A hot sensation builds up within you, a clenching motion.
"Ah."
>You mimic what Pyrite is doing, at first kissing each side of her inner thighs, before looking at her lips.
>You close your eyes, extending your tongue as you begin to lick the tip.
>Pyrite jolts from the sensation, though you can hear her giggle.
>In retaliation, he does the some to you, causing you to squirm and pant.
"Pyrite, Pyrite, oh Pyrite."
>Her tongue is tracing lines between your lips, before slowly and forcefully pushing herself inside of you.
"Ah!"
>The heat inside of you is building up.
>Her tongue is playing with your inner folds.
>Your mind is going blank.
>Her teeth gently bite and suckle your tip.
>What is this sensation?
>Her forceful, rhythmic lapping sends waves of pleasure within you.
>You know you've felt this somewhere before.
>A black tentacle appears and forces its way down your throat.
>You take it in, swallowing as much of it as you can.
>The sensation is overwhelming.
>Before you know it, you feel yourself climax.
>You grip hold of Pyrites leg and moan loudly.
>Inside, the crystal shard glows brightly, a light that pierces through your skin and illuminates the entire room.
>~"You are mine now."~
>You black out from your exhaustion.
>Everything fades to dark.

>Deep in the darkness you only had the light from a single candle.
>It was magically infused to give you a constant amount of light, and that it would not go out no matter what.
>More importantly, it would not set anything else alight other than the wick.
>For hours you poured over the books in the deep archives.
>Archives hidden away for generations, forgotten secrets, untapped knowledge.
>You knew that something was wrong, the inner voice that always asked 'what if…?'
>It bugged you.
>From the moment of Queen Umbra's defeat, you should have been happy, content that you freed all those ponies.
>But something didn't sit right.
>And even though you waited at the castle for her timely return, nothing happened.
>Nothing had happened.
>And that's what worried you.
>You delved through books about time manipulation spells, necromancy spells, life birthing spells.
>But none of them seemed to fit.
>There was something about Queen Umbra's powers, something that was unnatural about them.
>Something that should be easily explained, but wasn't written down anywhere.
>You found an old archaic book about the two sisters.
>It called them goddesses, the celestial sisters, and none lesser than that.
>No, perhaps it's something greater than all that.
>In another, older translated book, there were hints of otherworldly, celestial beings, the sun, the moon, the stars, chaos, light and dark.
>… dark?
>A purple ball of energy appears before you, and a scroll appears.
>As you were just about to discard it, you noticed Rarity's insignia on it.
>You suppose it wouldn't harm you to read a letter from an old friend.
>In fact, you were surprised.
>A new pony that had unknown knowledge of combining both metal and fabric together?
>Only the castle sages knew of how to forge the royal guard's protective armour.
>Who was this pony?
>And Anon.
>Fond memories of him appear before you now, stroking your mane and reading books to you.
>Anon who spoke of how in their world the sun and the moon rose and fell without the need of a celestial being.
>Perhaps you should head on up and greet them.
>But your inner voice said otherwise.
>You were close to discovering something.
>But what?
>Unearthing something that everypony has kept hidden.
>And you would not rest until you found out what it was.
>For you are Princess Twilight.

>Your concentration was waning.
>It probably didn't help that there wasn't much light down here, not that you could help it.
>These old books and scrolls had a tendency to break apart if there was a sudden temperature or light change.
>…
>The words weren't sinking in.
>You decide to take a moments rest.
>You thought back to the time you became known Princess Twilight Sparkle.
"Princess…"
>It was more of a matter of royalties and ceremonial services than any sort of 'ascension' that you imagined it to be.
>You were still yourself.
>The majority of the Canterlot history books taught you that.
>Anypony could become part of royalty through marriage, personal connections and even through 'favours'.
>Though what it did grant you, more importantly than any tiara or even the title 'Princess of Friendship', was access to the Canterlot archives.
>You cared for your friends, no, you could say you even loved them.
>But it was all the more reason for you to continue with your studies, to continue expanding your knowledge to protect them.
>You weren't a student anymore…
>The smell of freshly made coffee drifted in the air.
>Sensing for the mug in the darkness, you magic it across towards you.
>Taking a sip, you savour the warmth and taste.
>Princess Celestia wasn't your teacher anymore either.
>That part made you feel sad.
>Though she said she was now your equal, you could never really accept that.
>But even so, you spread your wings, even against the wishes of both the princesses, and went deep inside the archives, deeper than anypony had in a very long time.
>It gave you solitude, something to help clear your mind from all distractions and think rationally.
>The most recent incident…
> Queen Umbra's defeat.
>You think back to that decisive day.
>…
>"Princess Celestia! Queen Umbra's kingdom is heavily fortified!" One of the royal guards reports. "Her Shadow Army have erected giant crystal walls all around the kingdom."
>"So you continue to hide yourself." Celestia speaks.
>Princess Celestia had sent several letters and ambassadors in the past to the Crystal Kingdom, but there was never any reply, nor did any of the ambassadors return.
>In those letters, Celestia had wanted Queen Umbra to free the imprisoned Crystal Ponies and give them back their rightful land.
>It only came to light when several Crystal Ponies managed to escape to Canterlot.
>But the only answer that came was war.
>You were there with your friends, the Elements of Harmony.
>You were all a crucial part in winning this war.
>Not to mention Spike, he was adamant about coming with both you and Rarity to the Crystal Kingdom.
>"That Shadow mare…" Celestia said. "Will she not yield in the face of so much bloodshed?"
"Princess Celestia…"
>"Twilight, I need you and your friends to get inside of the kingdom."
"But what about you?"
>"We will lead the attack and act as a diversion." Celestia gazes out into the distance. "Once we destroy their walls, that'll be your signal to get inside."
>You nod and look at all your friends.
>"You may have to face her on your own."
>It was decided that Princess Celestia and Shining Armor would lead the frontal assault. Princess Cadance would support the rear of the army and Princess Luna would defend Canterlot.
>You felt uneasy about your teacher, no your mentor, going into battle.
>Sensing that it could be the last time you saw her, you had to speak with her.
>You ran into her tent, catching her in the middle of putting on her golden battle armour.
"Princess Celestia! Please, do you have to do this?"
>"Yes I do." She had finished fastening her chest plate. "Let this be a lesson for you, sometimes great sacrifices have to be made, sometimes for the greater good..."
"Princess."
>"My dearest student Twilight, I wish you the best and may we both return safely."
>With that, she enveloped her wings around you tightly, before stepping back outside.
>…
"Huh?"
>You found an old book, if you could even call it that in its current state.
>The pages were worn, eaten away by mould and moths.
>On the front cover had some old Equestrian runes, something that was predominantly used a thousand years ago.
>With your limited knowledge, you could only make out the title with an educated guess.
>'The Shadow History.'

>You are Silver Lining.
>After you bid your mistress, Queen Umbra, farewell, you cleaned up the place.
>Looking around the room, you can see the changes already.
>The room looks a lot more like a home now.
>You always looked forward to the day when your Queen will return.
>But for her to come to you.
>You were both humbled and excited.
"Right Silver Lining! You've got this today!"
>You turn back to your room and rumble through the desk.
"Right, first things first!"
>With your makeup kit, you decide to put on a light foundation with a subtle blush.
>You comb through your hair and tie bands on both your mane and tail.
>Throwing a smile left and right at the small little mirror, you nod approvingly.
>Sure enough you might not be the prettiest, slimmest pony but you knew how to make your best features shine.
>You wink at yourself and giggle.
>Besides, you have the upperhoof, you were at the service of a Queen.
>Locking up the door, you head on out to Canterlot Castle.
>You close your eyes and take a deep breath.
"Let's do this!"
>Weaving through the industrial maze of alleyways, you find yourself getting pulled away.
>You can hear a small meowing in the corner.
>You appear behind the corner and see a small black and white kitten, shaking against the wall.
"Aww, you poor little thing." You lower your head to its level. "Hello you, where's your mommy?"
>The little critter meows affectionately at you.
"Aww…" You quickly look around. "Here."
>You pick the kitten up by the scruff of its neck and place it inside a box.
>There, that should give it some shelter until you come back.
>You also look around for something to eat.
>Nothing.
"Hmm, hold on a second." You look at the kitten for one more time before you run off down the alleyway.
>You 'borrowed' somepony's towel and lunch, placing them both within the box.
"Alright I'll be back later!" You smile as you enter the outskirts if of the high class Canterlot area.
>…
>You're approaching the castle gates where you can already see a line of mares queuing up.
>Unsure of what they're in line for, you head up to the unicorn at the very end.
"Hi, excuse me, are you queuing for the maid application job?"
>"Hmpfh. What do I look like? Some sort of help desk?"
"N-no… Just I was-"
>"Go away, like I care. You're just some earth pony."
>"Excuse me." A cloaked mare appears before you. "I don't think that's the appropriate attitude to have."
"Mistress!"
>Umbra turns to you and smiles.
>"And since you don't care," she carries on. "I take it that you don't mind if we go on ahead towards the castle."
>Umbra decides to walk past her up through the line.
>"Well, Silver Lining, aren't you coming?"
"Y-yes mistress!"
>"H-hey! Where do you think you two are going!? They're cutting in line!"
>"No we are not, we're just looking for the help desk." Umbra replies.
>A pegasus mare a bit further ahead overheard your talk and walks out of line as you pass.
>"Oh I'll come too then."
>As soon as that happens, another pony starts shouting.
>"No you don't! You were behind me!
>"I've been waiting here for hours!"
>Not long after they're all arguing and fighting over each other.
>"You horse!"
>Umbra laughs and indicates you to follow her.
>With a smile on your face you just walk straight past them all.
>You approach the castle gate guards and tense up.
>"Please state your business."
>"We'd like to go to the help desk to ask for information." Umbra calmly states.
>"Sure thing, head straight into the castle and turn right."
>You pass through, without any issue.
>And sure enough you find a mare at a desk.
>"Welcome to Canterlot Castle, how may I be of service?"
>"Silver Lining?"
"Yes, we're here to apply for the maid job."
>"Oh great! I was wondering when somepony would show up. Just wait for a moment and I'll get you the papers."
>"Thank you."
>You watch closely as the mare leaves.
"Mistress, pardon me for asking, but isn't it dangerous for you to be here? What if you get caught?"
>"Do not worry, Silver Lining. This is just another test."
>Feeling anxious, you take a deep breath and remind yourself to put your trust in your queen.
>Looking at the desk, sure enough you find a tourist map of the castle.
"Oh, look mistress." You whisper. "A tourist map."
>You pick it up with your mouth and pop it away in your tail stash for later.
"This might be useful for later on."
>You couldn't help but see a slight sign of annoyance on Umbra's face.
>Then again, it could've been just confusion.
>"Right here are the papers." The mare returns.
>"Thank you."
>"If you'd like to fill them out now, I'll check over them and then you can head into the next room."
"Okay."
>You mouth the papers to the side of the desk and fill in the empty spaces.
>Looking over at your Umbra's paper, you wonder what name she put down.
>"All done?"
>"Yes."
"Yep!"
>"Let me take a look…" The mare adjusts her glasses. "Silver Lining is it?"
"Yes?"
>"You've lived in Canterlot for more than three years now, and your current occupation was… a servant?"
"Yep!"
>"Oh that's good news. More importantly, seems like you've worked with the other usual species." The mare nods. "Now normally we'd have these checked against our archives but since this is urgent, if you are successful we'll it over along with your references."
"Okay then."
>"And this is… Pyrite?"
>"Yes it is."
>"It says here that you've only just moved into Canterlot, where were you from?"
>"Yes I've come from overseas, past the griffon kingdom and dragon mountains."
>"Wow, I don't think I've ever heard of anypony coming from overseas."
>"Yes, and I am… in desperate need for a job."
>"Mhmm, says here that your current occupation is a… priestess?"
>"Yes, I've been on a pilgrimage for a long time now."
>"Hmm…" The mare is now scrutinising Umbra. "Since you've been on a pilgrimage, it's good that you've got experience in helping other species. However, the fact that you've been here less than three years makes it difficult for me to pass you onto the next room."
>"Is that a problem?"
>You look at Umbra with worry.
>"Well you see, you've only just come into Canterlot, regardless of your occupation or experience. I'll need to-"
>You see Umbra's eyes flash green for a split second.
"Mistress! What are you doing? We sh-"
>"Please, Silver Lining." She raises a hoof to silence you. "Now, what was it you were saying?"
>You quickly look back at the entrance, expecting the royal guards to come rushing in.
>"… I-I think you'll be fine for the role. Please, take these passes and wait in the next room."
>"Thank you." Umbra mouths her pass and walks on ahead.
"… thanks!" You quickly run after your queen.
>…
>You are both now sitting down on a row of chairs outside some double doors.
>The corridor is large but empty, save for the two statues on either end.
>Letting out a sigh of relief, you turn to your queen.
"Mistress, um, how is it that you're able to be here? I thought you said they'd be able to detect yo-"
>"Quiet."
>You shut up.
>"… care to look?"
>You can see Umbra pulling her cloak up, revealing some sort of…
"… lingerie!?" You blush.
>What was she wearing?
>Though it did look rather good…
>Umbra laughs and puts down her cloak again
>"Looks can be deceiving, Silver Lining."
"I'd… like to know what you mean by that, if you wouldn't mind.."
>"You will soon enough."
>The doors open up and a mare with a clipboard appears.
>"Silver Lining?"
"Yes here!"
>"Would you like to follow me in for the interview."
"O-okay!"
>Umbra nods at you to go.
"… I'll see you later then, Pyrite."
>You follow the mare with the clipboard.
>The double doors open into a grand study room.
>As soon as you enter the doors behind you slam shut.
"Wha-wha…."
>You see Princess Celestia standing at the end of the room beside a chair.
"Princess Celestia!" You bow down to her, more out of fear than respect.
>What was she doing here?
>"Oh that's quite alright my little pony."
>"… is it safe?" You hear another voice.
>"Yes it is, do not worry, she won't be able to get in here."
>Who are they talking about?
>No, it couldn't be…