A short interlude later...

Chapter 13: Dressed to Impress

"Stay still," Rarity mumbled, working her way around the impatient Pinkie Pie. The pink mare in question was currently perched atop a small stand while the seamstress made sure her dress was completely ready.

"Aw…" Pinkie complained. "Aren't you almost done?"

"Almost, Pinkie-winkle."

"Looks like a lot of trouble," Tyr muttered from his spot on the couch. It was the day of the Gala, and Rarity was in a rush. According to her, she only had to finish adjusting Pinkie's outfit, and then deliver the other dresses to her friends. The man had to give the mare credit however—managing to make (or at least alter) eight custom dresses and one suit in just two days. He really had to admire her work ethic. Cindy had helped out by fabricating any materials the mare had needed, but when she asked if Rarity wanted her to simply produce the clothes herself, the fashionista had asserted that every dress had to be handmade.

"Getting Pinkie's dress to survive her constant bouncing is the number one concern," Rarity said, moving around to fix the dress's collar. Pinkie's dress really did reflect her personality—balloons and candy shaped emblems were scattered about the cotton candy pink dress, in alternating blue and white colors. It was frilly, and a large blue bow was tied to the back. It was bright and playful, just like Pinkie. "But I've done it before, and I can do it again."

"You're a credit to your profession, Rarity," Luna said, coming into the seamstress's workroom. To Tyr's surprise, his beloved wife's hair was tied back in a bun. She noticed his searching gaze and chuckled slightly. "I have my mane done like this so that it will be somewhat ready for all the work that will go into it tonight."

"Work?"

"The Princesses have extensive work put into their ensembles for this event," Rarity said, turning to look. "Why, just last year, Twilight told me she had almost half a dozen hairstylists working on her mane and tail before the Gala."

"That's… pretty impressive."

"I normally don't attend," Luna said, taking a seat beside Tyr. The man slipped an arm around her without a word and she simply leaned against him. "But considering this will be your first, beloved, I decided to at least show myself."

He smiled and kissed her cheek. "Well, thank you my dear."

"Alright, I'm done," Rarity said with a soft sigh. Pinkie bounced up and down happily. "Oh don't start now! Get the dress off for now—we'll do your hair and things before we leave."

Pinkie grinned. "Kay~" She bounced out of the room to go to her own. Rarity let out a sigh.

"I swear by the Two Sisters, that mare has more energy than I can handle…"

"That brings up a thought," Tyr said. "Why do ponies essentially use Luna and Celestia's names like if they were gods?"

"Well, to be perfectly frank, many ponies still do suffer from the delusion that my sister and I are gods," Luna said sadly. "Although I believe Tia has done her best to fix that interpretation, it is a euphemism that we have not gotten rid of."

"It is something I have been used to saying since I was little," Rarity admitted.

Tyr shrugged. "I see."

"Well, I am done for the time being," Rarity said, stretching. "I will take the dresses for the others over to Twilight's castle, and then we can all get prepared. Unfortunately darling—"

"I'll get changed here," Tyr said with a chuckle. "I'll give you your privacy."

"I suppose I should be going as well," Luna said with a sigh. She got up. "I need to take Sherry and Hope back to Canterlot. A Princess's work is never done…"

"I guess I'll have to wait to see you in your dress," Tyr said.

"I'm sure you will be fine waiting," Luna said, leaning down to kiss him. After she pulled away, Tyr got up as well. Together the three of them went out into the hall, and then the common room. Aleron was reading a book, while Jubilee, Ancè, and Aurora were talking. Cori was sitting with Chrys, the older Changeling showing her something in the newspaper.

"Chrys, we should get going," Rarity said as Luna went off to go find Tyr's other two daughters. "We're going to Twilight's castle to prepare for the evening."

Chrys frowned ever so slightly. "I see. And the little ones?"

"They will be spending the evening in the castle," Rarity explained proudly. "Since they're a bit too young to be romping around the Gala."

"Oh!" Aurora sat up. "That means we can show everypony around, right?"

"I would enjoy a tour of the castle," Ancè said.

"Aw, I wanted to party!" Jubilee whined.

"Please don't be so much like mom, Bibi…"

"You all sound like you're going somewhere," Fenrir mumbled, crawling out from her sleeping spot under Tyr's cloak. She yawned.

"We're going to a party," Chrys said.

"…Humph. Wake me up if you get into a fight or something."

Tyr shook his head. "Hopefully I won't need to wake you then."

"I laid out your suit in your room, Tyr," Rarity said, pulling a long rack full of dresses along behind her. "Put it on before we leave."

"How are we getting to Canterlot, actually?" Tyr asked, a bit curious.

Rarity frowned. "Normally we go by train. It's an hour or so trip, if I recall. We wanted to attempt teleportation one year, but over such a long distance and with such a large group, Twilight couldn't do it safely."

"I believe I have a solution, Operator," Cindy said, coming over.

Tyr raised an eyebrow. That was becoming the machine girl's catch phrase. "And what solution do you have for me, Cindy?"

"The Jötunheim has a pair of smaller craft with transport capability," Cindy said. "It is called a Ranger. It should provide enough transport space for all of you, and transport you to your destination in short order."

"That sounds perfect."

"Although… it requires a pilot. Unfortunately, I cannot provide that service. You will need to pilot it manually."

Tyr flexed his hands. "No worries. I remember my mother's skill."

Rarity smiled. "I'll let the girls know then. You remember the time, right?"

"Right. See you later?"

She came over to him and pushed herself up to kiss his cheek. "Of course, darling."

"I want a kiss too," Chrys complained, coming over. Tyr chuckled and rolled his eyes. But he did gently place a kiss right between his Changeling's eyes. "Thank you Master."

"Now I'll see you girls later, alright?" He grinned.

"Of course." Rarity smiled. "I just hope you're looking forward to our outfits, Darling."

The tone with which she said it made Tyr frown, as if she had something else planned. Well, if that was the case, he'd just have to wait until he saw them again.

–x–

Celestia looked up from the scroll she was reading as Ace came into her study. "Oh, you're early, Ace," She said.

"Just making sure everything was in order," The knight said, running a hoof over his mane. He was clad in his white and gold cloak with a bloody shield emblazoned on it—his Cutie Mark. Every time Celestia saw it her heart hurt. It was an almost constant reminder that there was still evil in this world. If Ace noticed her slight cringe, he didn't say anything.

"So nothing out of the ordinary?"

"No, we have all the food and everything, decorations are up…" Ace smirked. "So when were you going to tell me?"

"Tell you what?"

"You asked Heart to sing tonight."

Celestia smiled. "Ah, Heart Song. Are you that surprised?"

"Not really." Ace moved over to one of the cushions near the desk. "But I've been so busy I haven't had time to see my sister. And you knew that."

"Oh Ace, I'm not that devious." She smirked, which got a laugh from the all-white Pegasus.

"You say that," He chuckled. "Anyway, she's getting set up. Want to go see her?"

"Well, it's not much fun doing paperwork anyway," Celestia said, getting up. Ace got up as well and together they left the study. Everyone in the castle was working at full steam to prepare for the Gala, so most of the halls were empty. However as they made it outside, they spotted Flash talking to two other ponies. One was a dark purple unicorn stallion, with a braided black mane and a pair of headphones around his neck. His Cutie Mark was a quill sitting on a CD, and the same emblem was on the black jacket he wore. The other was a Pegasus mare, with a brown coat and a brown mane and tail that had gold highlights. Her Cutie Mark was a metronome, and she was wearing a plaid shirt and a multicolored scarf.

"Ah, Princess," Flash said, spotting them coming. His cloak was gold and blue, with his Cutie Mark—a blue shield with a lightning bolt—stitched into it. "I was actually about to come looking for you."

"For me?" Celestia frowned. "What seemed to be the problem?"

"First, let me introduce Read Write and Even Tempo, the two music coordinators for today. They normally work with Coloratura, but she lent them to us for the evening."

The violet stallion bowed slightly. "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Princess. The name's Read Write, but most ponies just call me Read. I'll be handling sound for you tonight, and provide whatever you need."

"And I'm Even Tempo," The mare said, smiling. "I'll make sure my silly fiancé here actually does his job."

Read chuckled nervously. "Jeez babe."

Celestia laughed softly. "I am not worried. You two seem like good ponies, so I am sure you will do an excellent job."

"We're professionals," Read assured her. "You're gonna have the best sound ever."

"And that's a promise we can keep!" Tempo added.

"Wonderful. I will leave you to your duties."

The two ponies bowed once more before going off to where a sound station was set up. "Coloratura was pretty nice to lend us her pros for the Gala," Ace said thoughtfully.

"She was close friends with Applejack from what I heard," Flash said, joining Celestia and Ace. "Probably that Apple hospitality rubbed off on her."

"A fair point," Celestia agreed. "If I see her tonight, I will have to personally thank her."

"Aunt Tia!" They looked over to see Sherry coming over, a frown on the Princess of Creativity's face. Celestia frowned ever so slightly.

"Is something wrong, Sherry?"

"Not particularly, I just wanted your permission to serve my new cake design tonight."

"Ah, the one you were designing for your father?"

"Yeah. I got him to taste it the other day, and he approved."

"Wonderful. You have my permission as well." Celestia smirked. New cake recipes were always welcome to her.

"Thanks Aunt Tia. I'll see you later then!"

"Ah, before you go, Sherry," Celestia stopped her before she left. "Where is my sister?"

Sherry thought for a moment. "I think she's still getting herself ready? I'm not completely sure."

"Fair enough. You may go, Sherry."

The young Alicorn smiled brightly before hurrying off, no doubt to begin her own preparations for the Gala. "She's such a good kid," Flash muttered.

"I believe her upbringing had quite a part to play in that," Celestia said with a smile. "I am sure her parents raised her to be a kind filly, and Tyr gave her the mental fortitude to pull through after losing her family. And he gave her the strength to continue on."

"She's kind and honest like Tyr," Ace agreed. "Plus he even made sure to keep her involved and show that he loved her when the twins were born. Sun knows I had that issue when Vi was born…"

"Lucky for me I only have one kid," Flash said with a chuckle. Ace rolled his eyes, but the motion caused him to look over at Celestia. Her smile was still there, but there was a bit of pain in it. He frowned, but the Princess of the Sun looked down at him.

"Is there something wrong, Ace?"

"No…" He murmured. "But… are you alright, Princess?"

"I will be fine."

Ace frowned, but before he could prod any further, a musical voice called out to him. "Big Brother~!"

Celestia had always loved seeing the emotions play over Ace's face whenever he saw his sister for the first time in a while. First there was confusion, as he didn't immediately recognize the voice. Then the realization, and then the pure joy at seeing his little sister. "Heart!"

The all-white mare came rolling over in her wheelchair, red tinged magic turning the wheels. She was already dressed in a dark red evening gown, and her long mane was tied back into a French braid. There was a small smile on her face, but Celestia could almost feel the happiness radiate off her. Ace immediately flew to his sister and embraced her. "It's been too long," She said, hugging her brother back.

"We've been busy," Ace said, gently resting his forehead against hers. "But I have really missed you."

"Same."

"Could you guys chill with the sibling love?" Flash said with a chuckle. "I know you two love each other, but seriously."

"If you had a sister like mine, you'd be the same," Ace said, gently nuzzling his sister one last time. Heart Song giggled.

"Stop hyping me up," Heart Song said. "I'm not all that amazing."

"You are to me."

Celestia laughed quietly. "You two are simply adorable."

Instead of being embarrassed, as most ponies would be, both Ace and Heart Song beamed. Obviously, any kind of praise they could get from Celestia was worth it. The knight turned to his sister for a moment. "Hey, do you have everything you need for tonight?"

Heart Song thought for a moment. "I do believe so. Read and Tempo have been really patient and helpful. It almost makes me a bit jealous that Coloratura has them all to herself."

"I'm sure 'Rara' would lend them to you if you asked," Flash pointed out with a small chuckle. "Speaking of her, I haven't seen her at all."

"She's getting ready," Heart Song said. "I was just a bit quicker."

"Yo, Song!" Read called out. "We still have to do a sound check for you, love!"

Heart Song smiled sadly. "Duty calls, friends and family. I'll see you all at the gala!"

She rolled away, leaving the Princess and her two Knights standing there. Read was waiting on her with a lapel mic in his dark gray magical aura. "Seems she'll be busy," Flash murmured. Although almost immediately, several voices cried out.

"Princess Celestia!"

They turned to see three mares running to them. "What's going on?" Ace asked.

"We've been looking for you everywhere, princess!" The lead of the mares said. "We need to do your mane and tail!"

Ace blinked several times. "…Princess?"

Celestia glanced over at him. "…Yes, my dear Ace Guard?"

"You weren't doing paperwork, were you?"

"…No."

"You were hiding from the stylists."

"…Yes…"

Ace face-hoofed. "…Go get your mane and tail done."

Celestia leaned in close. "Only if you call me mother."

The white Pegasus blushed softly, glancing around. Flash was watching intently, and the three mares were waiting on his reply. He let out a deep sigh. "Go get your mane and tail done… mom."

The Princess of the Sun beamed just like the celestial body she controlled. "As you say, my dear son."

As the Princess left, Flash gave his friend a sly smirk. The other knight rolled his eyes, even as he could overhear the other ponies setting up beginning to talk about what just happened. No doubt Princess Celestia's 'son' was going to get a lot of attention tonight…

–x–

"So we're not taking the train?" Rainbow asked. She and the Elements of Harmony and Starlight Glimmer were in the Castle of Friendship's map room, each seated on their respective thrones. Well, all except Twilight. The Princess of Friendship was absent, preparing something in another room. The others were already dressed, each of their dresses matching their personalities. Applejack and Rainbow's dresses were less ornate or fancy as the others as befitted their distaste for anything too flashy. Fluttershy's dress was earth colored and flowy, yet still gave her a refined look. Rarity had outdone herself, as usual.

The fashionista herself was dressed in an elegant white and purple dress that glittered in the light. Assorted gemstones lined the edges of the dress, a testament to Rarity's… extravagant style. She chided her athletic friend gently. "Now Rainbow Dash, calm down. I already explained that Tyr planned to provide our means of transportation tonight."

"But how?"

"Hopefully not with his airship," Applejack pointed out. "I know Rare is all for big entrances, but that thing might be a tad too big?"

"I agree," Fluttershy said. "It might be too loud for all the animals there…"

Rarity huffed. "Now, I will agree with you Applejack; I do enjoy a good entrance. But even I know that massive ship of Tyr's is too much."

"So what did he decide to do?" Starlight asked.

Pinkie bounced up and down on her throne. "He got a smaller ship, silly!"

"Smaller?"

There was a noise from outside, catching their attention. "That's Tyr!" Pinkie cried, bolting out of the door.

"How does she know that?" Starlight murmured, but she and the other mares followed after. The sight that greeted them just outside was enough to make their jaws drop. A sleek silver ship about the size of a small house sat in front of them, its engine humming gently as it settled down. A ramp opened up then, and out walked Tyr. The mares there had to take a moment as the man walked out. He was wearing a silver three piece suit, the vest a royal blue and the tie designed to look like stars. A small version of his Cutie Mark—a silver shield with a moon in its center—was emblazoned just above where his heart would be. Rarity had added a violet half cape to the outfit, which Tyr wore over his right arm. A quintet of stars was centered halfway up the cape itself.

"So…" The man said, smiling slightly. "How do I look?"

"You look…" Applejack started, trying to find words.

"Dude, you look awesome!" Dash exclaimed. "That cape is badass!"

"I agree," Fluttershy said softly. She smiled, a small blush crossing her cheeks. "You look… dashing."

Pinkie almost couldn't contain herself. "You look so COOL!"

"What do the stars stand for?" Starlight asked.

"His kids," Rarity said softly. The other mare looked like she wanted to say something, but decided against it.

He adjusted one of his sleeves. "But I have to give it to you, Rarity; this outfit fits me perfectly." Tyr admitted with a chuckle as he walked over.

"I take pride in all my projects," Rarity said proudly, tossing her mane. "Of course I would do the best for my…"

A frown crossed her face as she stopped talking. "What is it, Rarity?" Tyr asked.

"I've just realized… I'm not quite sure what to call you."

Pinkie blew a raspberry. "You can just call him Tyr, silly!"

"Pinkie, you know what I meant."

"I believe the proper term is 'herd-mate'," Chrys supplied, coming outside. The changeling was clad in a forest green dress that almost looked like it was made of metal instead of cloth. It shimmered like the surface of a lake. Silver accents lined some of the edges. Her mane was done up into long braids, tied back by a silver bow. She smiled as she saw Tyr's shocked look. "Do you approve, Master?" She purred.

"Well… yeah. You look… stunning, Chrissy."

The Changeling giggled and walked over to him. She gave him one long appreciative look. "You look good yourself."

He smirked and touched the collar around her neck. "Although I think this part of the outfit is my favorite."

That got a blush out of the Changeling. She lowered her head slightly. "…It is mine as well, Master. Although…"

"Although?"

"The constant reminder of your love is the main reason I like it."

"What are they doing?" Starlight whispered to Rarity. "Didn't Queen Chrysalis attempt to conquer Equestria? Why is he so… friendly with her?"

The white unicorn frowned slightly. "Chrysalis belongs to him. I made that collar for her, and he gave it to her. She's wholly devoted to him."

"And you and the others just forgave her for what she did?"

"It took a while, but yes," Rarity said shortly, narrowing her eyes at the other mare. "Considering she saved Luna's life twice, I believe she has earned our trust."

"She saved Princess Luna…?" Starlight processed that information. This… man had 'tamed' a Changeling? And the Queen of the Changelings on top of that! She made to ask Rarity another question, but noticed something black just under the collar of her dress. "Rarity… are you wearing something on your neck?"

The white unicorn blinked rapidly, before adjusting her dress with her magic. "I am wearing a high collared dress, darling."

"Yes but—"

"I'm finished!" Twilight's voice called out from inside the castle. Everyone turned to look as the Princess of Friendship came trotting out of the castle. Her dress was a mixture of violet, pink, and blue, with purple stars mixed in. It was elegant and fit the Princess extremely well. "Oh, hello Tyr!"

"Princess," The man said respectfully, bowing with one arm crossed over his chest. Twilight was a bit taken aback by the professionalism in his voice. It didn't help that in that moment, he looked like a knight in dress attire.

"Oh, uh… You don't have to be so formal…"

"Just wanted to do it once," Tyr admitted respectfully. "So, are we all ready to go?"

"Can you fit all of us in there?" Fluttershy asked, looking over the Ranger.

"All of you and plenty of room to spare."

"Then…" Twilight spoke up. "You don't mind me adding one more?"

"One more?" Tyr frowned slightly as the kids came rushing out of the castle. They were all dressed up as well, in some regards almost in outfits just like their parents. The only exception was Vibrant, who was wearing a white and gold suit. Tyr figured that Ace was probably wearing something like that. Chrys immediately took over in getting them calmly into the Ranger.

Twilight nodded and turned back to the castle. "You can come out now!"

There was a heavy sigh from inside. "…Fine." Out from the castle gate came a unicorn mare with a golden coat and hair that reminded Tyr of flames. Her sky blue eyes regarded Tyr for a moment. "…So you're the guy."

"I'm the guy?" He repeated.

"The one from the other human world." The unicorn said, coming forward. Her dress caught Tyr's eye, with the design almost like a red sun spreading rays of pure yellow light. She stopped just short of Tyr. "You must be Tyr Hymir."

"Winter, actually," Tyr corrected the mare. "And am I safe to assume that Twilight told you about me?"

"You'd be correct." She smiled. "Sunset Shimmer. Nice to meet you, Tyr."

"The pleasure is all mine. You look radiant in that dress by the way."

"Why thank you! I expect nothing less from a Rarity."

"A Rarity?"

"The world Sunset lives in is parallel to this one," Twilight said, moving over to join her friend. "There's an alternate version of everyone in this world in that one."

"Well, all except me," Sunset said a little sadly. "I haven't met my alternate self. Which may or may not be a good thing?"

"Well, you won't know unless you do see her," Applejack said. "So are these… 'alternate selves' just like us?"

"More or less," Sunset said with a grin.

"Well!" Rarity cleared her throat. "We are wasting time. The Gala awaits!"

As the other mares went up the boarding ramp into the Ranger, Sunset paused at the bottom. "…We're going in this thing?"

"Don't worry," Tyr told her, patting her back as he passed. "You're in good hands."

The color drained out of her face. "You're flying? Oh dear Celestia, and I was worried about my Math test…"

"No worries," Rainbow said, settling in next to Vibrant. "Believe me, if you knew Tyr like we know him, you'd trust him too."

"Coming from Rainbow that actually means something," Sunset murmured, sitting beside Starlight in the back. Tyr moved up to the cockpit, placing his hands on the blank metal panel. To Sunset's surprise, conventional controls formed out of the metal, as if responding to his touch.

"Everypony buckle up," Tyr said, grinning. "It's time to fly."

–x–

The Gala was in full swing by the time they arrived. Ponies of all colors and sizes were walking about, socializing and enjoying the festivities. Most were extravagantly dressed, and at least some were obviously rich. Although the looks they gave Tyr and his party when they approached were obviously a little bit disdainful. Although one pony brightened Tyr's evening the moment he saw her. "Daddy!"

Sherry flew to her father, landing lightly in front of him before she embraced him. He couldn't help but smile and stroke her styled mane. "Hello my dear. How are you?"

"Much better now that you're here," Sherry said, releasing him and dropping back to all fours. Her dress was a mixture of pink and night related colors, and a small tiara sat atop her head. She waved at the others behind Tyr. "Wow, everyone came, huh?"

"Yeah, they all get tickets normally I hear."

"Sherry!" A quite upset voice called out. Tyr glanced past his daughter to see Hope trotting over. Her dress was more sun themed, and flowed about her as she walked. She frowned at the other Alicorn. "Aunty Celestia had us greeting guests—you can't just run off like that!"

"And you're supposed to be the responsible one," Aurora teased, flying up near her father's shoulder.

Sherry grinned sheepishly. "Right… well, check your tickets in with the doorpony, and I'll see you inside!"

With a hurried wave goodbye, the two Alicorns galloped back to the front doors. Tyr turned to the large group behind him. Rarity and Pinkie were right behind him, with the others slightly scattered about. "Alright everypony!" He called out, catching their attention. Aurora landed on his shoulders, wrapping her forelegs around his neck. He had to suppress the chuckle as he spoke. "Let's get checked in and then we can go about our business."

"First off, we need to get the kids to the castle," Twilight pointed out.

"We can handle that!" Aurora said proudly. "Al and I know the castle like the back of our hooves!"

"Then you two take care of your friends," Tyr said, smiling. "And don't get into trouble."

"Kay!"

"I'll keep an eye on her," Aleron promised. His sister pouted, but a quick and gentle pat from her father stopped her from responding.

"Thanks, you two. I'll sneak you some of your sister's cake."

"Sweet!" Aurora proclaimed, and took off towards her friends. It still amazed Tyr how quickly Aurora and Aleron had joined the already tight-knit group that was made up of his friend's kids. His daughter and Jubilee were really close, and even Al was getting along well with Ancè. But what made him the most happy was how accepted Cori was. The little Changeling had been almost absolutely terrified of any and all confrontation at first. But now, she was laughing and talking along with the rest of them. In particular, she seemed quite close with Golden Grove. He watched Aurora and Evie coming up with some kind of organizational plan, before the nine-pony group headed off to the castle.

"We should be on our way as well, darling," Rarity said, breaking him from his momentary thought process. His friends were already walking ahead, checking in with the guard at the door. Pinkie and Rarity had stayed behind with him, along with Chrys. He nodded wordlessly, and led the three mares to the door. The guard seemed particularly confused at both the human man and the Changeling, but the moment Tyr presented his ticket, the stallion had no choice but to let them in. The inside of the castle was as grand as Tyr remembered, except for all the decorations strewn about. For such an upscale party, it was still pretty lively.

"Oh, darling," Rarity spoke up. "I think I see someone I need to talk to. Do you mind?"

"You don't have to stay with me the whole night," Tyr pointed out with a small chuckle. "It's not like I own you or anything."

Rarity and Pinkie shared a look, but the white unicorn simply laughed quietly. "…Quite right, I suppose. Well, I shall see you later, darling."

She walked off, Tyr watching her walk away for a moment. He had to admit Rarity did really good in that dress of hers. All the girls did, he figured after a thought. He glanced around, suddenly finding himself alone. Pinkie vanishing was no surprise, but even Chrys had wandered off somewhere. There was a chuckle behind him. "Already lost, Tyr?"

Tyr glanced back to see Bright Soul approaching him, a small smirk on her face. The Lunar Knight was clad in her personal cloak, and Tyr could see light armor on under it. He smirked. "I suppose. Everyone's gone off to do their own thing."

"Hm. I see." She glanced around, looking at all the party goers. "I'm not one for things like this…"

"That makes two of us," Tyr said, chuckling. "This isn't the first time I've been dragged to a party because of who I know."

"While I have to work."

"A cruel world, is it not?"

To Tyr's surprise, the hazel pony chuckled. "I suppose at times it is."

"What's this now?" Tyr folded his arms over his chest, a smile beginning to form. "Are you warming up to me?"

"No!" Bright Soul immediately denied it. "I mean… Grace told me I had to make small talk, but… Ugh."

"If you're not comfortable talking to me…"

"It's not that. My sister… is here."

"Your sister? You said her name was Shining Light, right?"

The other pony glanced up at him, raising one eyebrow. "You remember?"

"I have perfect recall," Tyr pointed out. "So your sister came with you?"

"I told her you might be here, so she wanted to meet you."

"Fair enough… where is she?"

Bright Soul turned back to the crowd. She searched for a while before suddenly smiling. "There she is!" She waved one hoof into the air. After a moment, a golden maned mare came trotting over. She and Bright Soul had the same coat color, but the newcomer's eyes were a gentle brown. Those eyes in question opened wide upon seeing Tyr. Her mouth opened, and a soft voice managed to come out.

"You… you're the Silver Knight…"

Tyr smiled. "Hello there. Shining Light, if I'm correct?"

"You remember me!" The mare seemed almost giddy. "After all this time… you still remember me?"

A small frown crossed the man's face. "Well, considering what we saw…"

Shining Light's face fell. "Oh… right."

"But everyone—everypony, I mean—got out okay, right?"

"Oh, yes! Thanks to you and the other knights, we all got home safely." Shining Light glanced over at her sister. "And I got to be reunited with my big sister."

"Don't start getting all mushy, Light," Bright Soul said, nudging her sister.

The other mare pouted. "You don't have to be so serious all the time, big sis."

"I'm a knight! It's my job!"

"I don't think being 'stoic and stern' was part of the job description," Ace said. He, Flash and Grace came walking over.

"Yo, everypony," Tyr said in greeting.

Flash chuckled. "Someone's getting used to the terminology."

"I kinda have to. Ponies keep looking at me weird."

"Well," Ace spoke up. "We kinda have a thing to do, remember Bright?"

Bright Soul thought for a moment before suddenly stomping one hoof. "Ah, right! For the duke and duchess of Maretania?"

"Right. And their son, who came along."

Shining Light glanced around. "You all have something to do?"

"Sorry Light," Bright Soul apologized. "I have my duties…"

"It's okay, Bright," Shining told her,

Tyr frowned. "What are you guys even doing?"

"A presentation of our skills, or some such," Grace pointed out. She gestured towards one of the windows. Already, there was a group of horses—not ponies—outside who looked quite foreign. They seemed to be waiting for something. "Princess Celestia asked us to entertain them."

"I guess I'll tag along," Tyr said, shrugging. "My little group ditched me."

"Well, it's just like old times!" Flash agreed. He glanced at Bright Soul. "Plus one, of course."

"Thanks for establishing me as the odd one out," the Lunar Knight responded dryly.

"Sorry."

They made their way outside. As they walked, Tyr could hear the light clinking noise as the armor the four knights were wearing clinked together. Grace and Bright Soul were more lightly armored than Flash and Ace, although Flash wore more plate like armor. Guess their preferences had changed once they were back in their own world. There was a table set up outside, and the duke and his family were seated behind it. Sherry and Hope stood to one side, with the duchess saying something to them. Once they got closer, they caught the last bit of the conversation. "I just cannot fathom what has kept Princess Celestia and Princess Luna so occupied," the mare was saying.

"Princess Celestia is greeting ponies as they enter," Hope explained calmly. "And Princess Luna is currently occupied by other nobles attending this event. That is why Princess Sherry and I are attending to you."

"I still find it odd that there are so many Princesses now," The stallion said, tilting his head upwards. It made it so he was looking down on Sherry and Hope, even despite his already obvious high difference. "In our lands, we do not throw around titles such as 'Princess' with such ease."

"We were given titles to emphasize our position of helping other ponies," Sherry said, frowning. "We do not use our positions as political tools."

"Are you implying something, Miss Sherry?"

The pink haired mare was caught off guard. "No, I…" She looked over at Hope, who also seemed quite surprised.

"I think avoiding such blatant threats would be a benefit to us all," Tyr said, as he and the knights reached the group. The duke's guards snapped to attention, drawing sabers and angling them towards Tyr.

"Watch it!" Grace hissed, stepping forward. Her horn lit up to push the blades down. "Don't point those at him!"

"What is this… beast you bring before us?" The duke stood up, frowning deeply. "Is this what the Princesses wished to show us? Some dressed up pet of theirs?"

Tyr's eyes narrowed. For a short moment they almost looked feral. "Didn't anypony teach you not to threaten a wolf?"

The duke drew back, obviously terrified. His guards pushed forward again, but Ace and Flash stepped in the way. "Stand down, or we'll make you," Flash warned.

"Oh, please do," Ace said with a wild grin. "I really want something to do."

The duke and Tyr stared at one another for a long minute. Finally, the stallion let out a sigh and turned away. "…Stand down."

The guards looked to their leader, but sheathed their sabers. "So!" The duchess spoke up. "This demonstration…"

"Princess Celestia asked me to demonstrate my skills," Grace said, stepping forward.

"And what will you be doing?"

"I've got just the trick," Ace said with a grin, retrieving an apple. "How about this one, Grace?"

The red-maned pony looked at the apple for a minute. After a moment of thought, she took off her glasses and set them on the nearby table. "…That one will do."

Ace moved to a spot in front of the group, while Grace stood just off the side. "Here goes nothing!" The white pegasus threw the apple into the air as high as he could. Grace followed it with her eyes as it travelled, never moving. Only the moment it reached the apex of its flight did she move. She flung her cape open, and in a fluid motion drew a quartet of throwing knives. Only Tyr could follow the motion as the four knives shot through the night air and towards the apple. To the shock of the majority of those watching, the apple landed on the table in one piece.

The duke's son sat up straighter. "Did… did she miss?"

"This is the supposed skill of the Royal knights?" The duke chuckled. "Why she couldn't hit the broad side of a—"

With a small sound, the apple separated into several slices. Grace smirked and replaced her glasses. "I don't miss."

"…I see…"

"Man that never gets old," Ace chuckled, popping one of the apple slices into his mouth. "I almost want her to do this at breakfast."

"Not even if you asked, Ace," Grace said with a laugh. "I'd like to not leave knife holes in too many walls."

"Fair enough."

"I see the prowess of the knights are not to be scoffed at," The duke said. "And does this… thing do anything useful?"

"He is an Elemental," Bright Soul clarified. "I would advise you to not speak of him like a household pet."

"…Very well."

"I'll show you what I can do," Tyr said, a bit of venom in his voice. He lifted up one arm, cold air already forming around it. He directed the cold air flow into a small storm, sending it dancing off his fingertips and onto the grass. The ice flurry grew thicker and thicker under his direction, and snow began to fall in the small area around it. Tyr yanked his hands apart, and the ice snapped together to form a life sized statue of Luna made completely of ice. Everyone stared in quiet awe. Tyr let out a soft sigh. "…There."

"Whoa man," Ace mumbled, moving closer to inspect it. "This is… perfect."

"It's an exact replica," the duke muttered, looking it over himself. "You even captured that stern look of hers so well…"

"What's this about me looking stern?" Everyone turned to see the Princess of Dreams herself walking along the path to them. Her violet and blue dress gave off the appearance of stained glass, and flowed as she moved. She approached the ice sculpture, a look of wonder crossing her face. She glanced from the sculpture to Tyr, and then back again. "Beloved… did you make this?"

"Yes I did," Tyr said, smiling. "Who else do you know that can control ice?"

Luna chuckled. "Well, true enough. Plus, only you would know me well enough to make an exact replica."

"Princess…" The duke mumbled. "You… and this… human?"

"This 'human' as you keep calling him is an Elemental," Luna said sharply, frowning and looking over at the duke. "And he is my husband."

As the other ponies' eyes widened in shock, Bright Soul rolled her eyes. "I warned you…"

The duchess stood up and cleared her throat. "W-Well! I believe we have been quite entertained. We should go inside and get something to eat, no?"

Taking the advice of his wife, the duke and his family got up, bowed slightly to Princess Luna, and hurried inside with their guards. "I saw that coming," Grace said with a chuckle.

Ace glanced around, noticing who was left. A small smirk appeared on his face. "Hey, Flash, Grace, Bright—didn't we have something to do?"

Bright Soul looked over at the white pegasus with a frown. "I don't remember having anything else to—?"

"Ah, that's right!" Sherry said, nodding. "I needed you four for something. Come on, we should go."

Ace, Flash and Grace shared a look and nodded, moving to follow Sherry and Hope. Bright Soul still had a frown on her face. "I still don't remember… hey wait, don't leave me!" She galloped after them, leaving Tyr and Luna alone out in the garden. The Princess of Dreams was still looking at the sculpture, walking around it in a slow circle. Tyr found a bench nearby and sat down.

"Do you like it?" He asked.

"Like it? I'm still simply wondering if my flank really is that big." Luna glanced over behind herself, and then at Tyr. The man was looking at her backside with a curious expression. "…Really, beloved?"

"You brought it up," Tyr said with a chuckle.

"I suppose that is true. Although if anyone is going to stare at my flank, I would prefer it was you." She moved away from the sculpture and joined Tyr on the bench, sitting beside him and laying her head in his lap. He began to aimlessly stroke her mane and run his fingers through it. The strange ethereal like texture still felt weird to him. Luna let out a sigh of content. "That feels good."

"Your mane still feels strange to me," Tyr pointed out. "A good kind of strange though."

"I wish I could simply lie here in your lap all evening. That would be a perfect night for me."

"I agree with you there, Moon. But you've got your duties to deal with."

"Night take my duties," Luna complained, twitching slightly as Tyr's fingers brushed against her ears. "I would give up everything for you."

Tyr smiled. "I know my dear, and I would do the same for you. But we do have our responsibilities."

"I know…"

"You do look wonderful in this dress."

Luna smiled and laughed quietly. "Why thank you, my love. And you in turn look quite handsome in that suit. A Rarity original, I may assume?"

"Of course."

Dark blue magic took hold of the half-cape, lifting it up slightly. "It does rather suit you."

"Thank you." Tyr smiled and leaned down to kiss her forehead. As he did so, a thought occurred to him. "Hey, Moon, mind if I ask a question?"

"Of course not, my beloved. What is it?"

"I know you like it when I touch your mane or scratch at your ears, but… what happens if I touch your horn?"

To the man's surprise, the mare in his lap tensed up and a blush spread across her cheeks. "That… that is a question, is it not…"

"Moon?"

"Simply put beloved… Only touch my horn if you want me out of this dress."

"I…I see. That was rather blunt."

"You know I'm not one to dance around the issue…"

"True enough."

"Princess!" A guard called softly, coming outside. Luna lifted her head up from Tyr's lap, a small frown crossing her face. "I'm sorry to disturb you and your husband, but—"

"Let me guess; Duty calls, correct?" Luna let out a sigh. "One day, I will be able to spend an evening just lying on your lap, beloved."

Tyr grinned. "My lap and I will be waiting."

They both got up off the bench. "Well, let us go. We have to 'mingle' and whatnot…"

"It'll be fine," Tyr put a comforting arm around her as they walked back inside. "We'll have tons of fun!"

–x–

I believe that is what we call... tempting fate. This Gala will be quite interesting.

But I won't reveal any secrets. You'll have to wait, for now.

As usual, please Read, Review, and Return for the next chapter. Don't hesitate to comment or criticize, for the Library Accepts All, and will patiently wait for your return.

Oh, and just in case I have those readers... Happy Father's Day!