Chapter 135: A Suitor's Proposition

"What's the status, Sparky?" asked Storm.

"Just give me a few moments to input the coordinates," said Twilight.

The pair were in space as they had left Coruscant a while ago. After discovering the report the pair had been looking for, the two realized the details of what happened on Naboo over a decade ago didn't fully give them what they were looking for. So to discover a clue that may help the Jedi win the war, the teens headed back to the princess' homeworld as they hoped Zecora's fortune-telling powers could help them.

"Okay, almost there," said the princess.

Just then, some shots were fired. The fighter rocked back and forth as the Jedi felt it.

"What the hell is going on?" asked Storm.

As if on cue, some vulture droids flew past them as they were circling around. They were now firing at the fighter as it rocked some more. Storm took control of the ship as he made the fighter avoid the shots from the droids getting closer. The ship was spinning and doing barrel rolls, looking to avoid the enemies chasing them. Soon another ship came roaring by as it was a different fighter. Storm looked at it as in the cockpit was a bacon-haired girl.

"Sunset!" growled Storm.

The girl saw her rivals as she was looking to take them out.

"Sparky!"

"Almost there!" said Twilight as she inputted the last bit of the info into the mainframe.

"I've got you now!" said Sunset as she fired at the fighter.

Storm let Twilight's droid take over the flying as he operated the guns on the fighter. He turned them around as he began to fire, taking out the droids next to Sunset's fighter. The girl avoided the blaster shots from the Jedi as she pushed some buttons. Some rockets shot out as they were zoomed ahead; Storm activated the flares as they shot out and distracted the missiles, resulting in a smokescreen.

"Twilight!"

"Now!" shouted the girl.

Their fighter then zoomed ahead in the blink of an eye as they disappeared and entered hyperspace. Sunset was in her ship as she growled, seeing that the two were gone.

It took a while, but soon the Jedi exited hyperspace. They had to take a detour to avoid Sunset from potentially trying to trace them. But in the end, they made it to their destination as they appeared before Twilight's homeworld. The ship descended as they entered the planet's atmosphere.

Down on the planet, in one of the castle's rooms, a group of guards was watching their monitors. They got a signal of something entering their planet as the images came up.

"Inform the King. Tell him: The Princess has returned," said one of the guards.

The fighter descended past the clouds as the many birds flew by them. The ship soon traveled past several mountains and fields, heading toward the kingdom. Within moments, the giant castle that towered the town below was shown. They soon touched down on a meadow just outside the town and its docking area, where many other ships were coming in and out.

The pair got out as a squad of guards on horses came over the horizon; a carriage was also being pulled behind them. The King's royal crest symbol was shown on the flag one of the riders held, as that alone surprised Storm.

"Uh, Sparky... you didn't tell your parents you were coming, right?" asked the boy.

"Oh... right... I forgot," said Twilight as she facepalmed, "Since our last visit, my dad had a new security system installed. Now, an array of machinery allows us to see who's coming into our orbit. He mentioned it to me a while back. The main purpose is to watch out for any invaders or whatnot."

"That makes sense," said Storm as he found that justification was reasonable.

Soon the guards stopped as the carriage came to a halt. The driver signal to his coachmen to get off. He did and approached the door; he opened it, and stepping out was none other than Night Light.

"Hi, Dad," said Twilight with a wave as she approached her father.

"My little Twily," said Night Light as he lifted his daughter and hugged her.

The pair smiled at seeing the other. They soon broke their embrace as Night Light set his daughter down.

"I didn't expect you to visit," stated the King.

"Y-Yeah, sorry about that. But I..."

"Don't be. In fact, I was just about to contact your Master to let you come home when your ship was detected entering our orbit," said Night Light as he interrupted his daughter.

"You were?" said the girl.

"Now come along. There are tons to do to prepare for the many suitors you're gonna meet."

"B-But Dad, that's not why I'm..."

"Come along!" said Night Light, not letting his daughter speak.

"Dad..."

"Now, Twilight!" stated the King, with a bit more volume in his voice.

"Yes, Father," sighed the girl as her lip quivered. "I'm sorry, Storm."

The girl apologized to her partner as it seemed she had some things to attend to. She got in the carriage with her father as the coachmen closed the door and got on the back. The driver signaled the horses to move as they trotted down the path. The nearby guards began to lead the way as a few were behind the carriage. Storm watched them all trot away as soon he was left by himself.

"Guess this isn't gonna be as short as we thought," said Storm.

The boy then began to take off down the path toward the town. He soon arrived and saw the square full of people going about their day. Seeing that Twilight would be busy for quite a while, he decided to swing by Sugarcube Corner. What he saw was quite a sight. A huge line out the door was shown. The boy somehow managed to squeeze through the crowd as he made his way to the counter; Mr. Cake was running around like a headless chicken, trying to take all the many shouting orders the customers were giving him. In the kitchen, through the small window, Mrs. Cake was running too many bowls and mixing while also running to the many ovens, trying not to let any of them burn.

"What's going on here?" asked the Jedi.

"Storm! Thank goodness you're here. We need your help! Can you operate the counter while I help the wife? Thanks!" said the man as he didn't bother for the boy's answer or acknowledge that he had just shown.

"Yeesh," said the boy as he could see how stressed the pair were.

The shouting was still going on as the customers were starting to voice their concern about the lack of service around here, despite that it was run by two people who also had some babies to take care of. Storm then approached the counter as he tried to help the Cakes.

"Alright, settle down! Who's next in line?" asked Storm.

That proved to be the wrong answer as the shouting got louder. Many customers were trying to push the others out of the way to place their orders.

"Alright, one at a time! Form a line, or I'll use my Jedi powers on all of you!" yelled Storm.

That empty threat worked wonders as everyone shut up. They did as the teen ordered as they formed a straight line, as they didn't want to suffer the powers that the Jedi had, despite being younger than most adults. Storm was grateful he could control the crowd, but it also showed him that these people still feared him in a way. Knowing he couldn't use his powers on these people due to his Jedi Code, just because he was a boy with incredible powers and skills, was enough to scare these people. He could only imagine how terrified they would be if someone like Master Yoda, Windu, or even Luna herself would get a reaction out of these people, knowing that there was someone even more powerful than him.

Soon the line formed at Sugarcube Corner disappeared as Storm finished serving the last customer. The boy stepped through the door; he entered the kitchen and saw the Cakes sitting in some chairs as their babies were on the floor next to them. The twins crawled along the floor as they saw the teen and began to make their way to him. The two sat by his feet and had their arms reaching up to the Jedi.

"Nice to see you two," smiled Storm to Pumpkin and Pound Cake as he picked up the babies.

The two put their hands on his face, sticking their fingers into his mouth as he chuckled and placed them on a counter.

"Thanks for helping us, Storm," said Mrs. Cake as she slumped in her chair.

"No worries," said the Jedi as he rubbed the twin's tummies before patting their heads.

"How did you get them to settle down?" asked Mr. Cake as he rubbed his neck.

"I... threatened the customers that I'd use my powers on them."

"Well, that'll do it," said Mrs. Cake.

"I mean, you guys know I'm a Jedi, and I can't do that. But... seeing those people be afraid when I mentioned my powers, it kinda puts things into perspective," said Storm as he was looking at the twins before grabbing a chocolate chip and tossing it into his mouth.

"Yes... people fear what they don't know. But Equis has never had any contact with a Jedi," said Mrs. Cake. "Even Twilight, a Jedi, still mostly view her as the princess. So, you are the first Jedi they've ever laid eyes on. And they're scared of what you can do."

"I can only imagine how much they would react if they came across a Sith Lord," spoke Storm, as he feared that if Equis encountered someone like Dooku or Sunset, they would run as fast as they could.

The Cakes looked at each other as they nodded.

"Listen, Storm. We're grateful for all you've done for us. And the twins love having their favorite babysitter." said Mr. Cake as the twins were sucking on his shirt as the boy removed it from their mouths.

"Which is why we have something to ask you. Can you see... if they..."

Storm knew what the woman was asking as he had to take a deep breath while turning to look at the kids.

"You sure that's what you want? Mr. and Mrs. Cake, being a Jedi, isn't all fun and games. If someone has Force-sensitive powers, then at a young age, they're taken to the Jedi Temple to conduct their training. And in some cases, they might never see home again." said Storm. "I'm not trying to sway you guys or anything, but... know there are consequences that come from this. Are you sure this is what you two want?"

Mr. Cake and Mrs. Cake looked at each other. They knew Storm had no parents to call home, but even if he did, then he probably would never see them as the role of a Jedi. There were feeling a small amount of regret knowing that piece of information.

"Yes," said Mrs. Cake, despite the consequences of what could happen.

"Very well," sighed Storm.

The boy looked at the twins seated on the counter as he bent down to their eye level. The two looked at him as he put his hand out. The Jedi used the Force to look into the twins, seeing if they had what it took. Both Cake parents held the other as they awaited to see what would happen. Storm concentrated as he focused on the two babies in front of him. The twins sat there as, in some regard, they didn't know what was going on, but another part of them seemed to be connected with the boy. Both suddenly lifted their hands and placed them against Storm's as if on instinct.

The twins felt the Force flowing through the boy as it traveled and reacted with kids. Storm opened his eyes as he stared at the twins who looked into him.

"Well..." asked Mrs. Cake, holding onto her dear husband.

"I'm sorry," said Storm as he shook his head.

While the Force was strong in the twins, he could see they didn't have any Force sensitivity that would lead them to be Jedi.

"It's okay," said Mr. Cake, "Even if they weren't Jedi, we're still happy with our kids."

The parents lifted their children in their arms as they bounced in their arms. The sight made Storm smile; on the one hand, he was glad the kids wouldn't be taken from their homes. On the other, seeing the family in front of him smiling and laughing made him slightly envious. Like the smiles they had were taunting him, telling him that he would never get to know that feeling of what it meant to have a family. The laughter turned into cackles as Storm clutched his head, trying to drown out the voices.

They soon died out as Storm felt his feelings starting to calm down. Knowing that as a Jedi, he didn't need to let this feeling control him as it would be the path to the Dark Side. The Cake parents approached the boy as he managed to get rid of the evil thoughts that clouded his mind.

"Storm, we would like you to be our kids' guardian," said Mrs. Cake.

The boy was heading to the castle after the Cakes talked to him. He wanted to check on Twilight to see how she was doing since they split. He entered the castle while roaming about, trying to find where the girl might be. The Jedi passed a room when music began to play; his head peaked out the door as he looked in.

The room he walked by had some couches and stained glass windows. But the thing that caught Storm's attention was a giant piano and someone seated next to it. The person was none other than Twilight; the girl had just gotten out of all the meetings and preparations with her parents as she needed some time to herself. However, her sad mood seemed even music couldn't cheer her up.

The princess had her head down as if trying her best not to cry. Her fingers played the keys of the piano as they produced some notes. The girl was so distracted that she didn't notice Storm entering the room.

"Here in cherished halls in peaceful days... I fear the edge of dawn... knowing... time... betrays," sobbed Twilight as she hit the final notes while singing her little song to herself.

"I knew you had a lovely singing voice. But I'm still memorized every time I hear you."

Twilight lifted her head and turned to see Storm standing there. The girl turned back. The boy approached the seat, and he sat next to her.

"Hey."

"Hey," responded Twilight, still sniffing.

"So... what happened?" asked Storm.

"My parents have informed me that I'm expecting a suitor tomorrow. He seems adamant about wanting to see me."

"Ah... so, that means they..."

"No, but... they seem to think he'll be a perfect husband for me."

"And what did you say?" asked Storm.

"Nothing," responded Twilight.

The girl had no choice but to go through with what her parents had arranged. What started out as a simple visit to seek answers was now having the girl fulfill some obligations she was slacking on for the good of her bloodline. The princess didn't want to cry, but it was so tempting. Storm could see how his partner was affected as he put his arm around her shoulder and brought her in. Twilight placed her head on Storm as she just let it happen; the boy held the girl, hoping to take away her issues and stress.

The pair sat there for a while as Twilight relished having her head on her partner. She eventually removed it as she looked at Storm.

"Feel better?" asked the boy.

"Yeah. Thanks," said the girl, grateful she had a shoulder to cry on.

"So... how do you play this?" asked Storm, hoping to take Twilight's mind off things.

The boy looked at the instrument before him as he held his hands above the keys.

"Like this," smiled the princess.

Twilight placed her hands on his as she pressed them down on some keys. They produced some harmonious tones as she guided his hands to play a small piece of music she knew. As Twilight was teaching Storm, they found themselves getting closer as their faces were inches apart. Watching the two from the door as her head peeked in was Velvet, the Queen, smiling at seeing her daughter happy. She quietly left the pair as they were finishing up their lesson. The moon started rising, signaling how long they'd been in the room.

The teens started to turn in for the night as Twilight informed Storm that he would need to be present tomorrow as he was her personal guard. The princess showed the Jedi to his room for the night as Storm was going to have a big morning duty.

The sun rose over Equis as it shined down. The entire castle staff was doing the final preparations for the day. Storm was with Fleur and Coco as the girls were helping the boy as he was requested to put on a proper outfit as he would be accompanying Twilight during her get-together with the suitor that was arriving. After a few adjustments by Coco, Storm was now standing in front of a mirror as he wore armor. The chest piece wrapped around his torso completely fastened seamlessly around him. Interlocking metal plates provide protection and mobility to the rather delicate appendages. Leg guards surrounded his legs, and more plates were found at the joints around his limbs, providing proper movement despite the rigid material.

"Not bad, Coco," said Storm to the girl for designing him this outfit.

"It's the standard armor the royal guards wear. I just had Shenran tweak the design to fit your measurements and style," the teen responded.

"Then I'll give my thanks to him as well," said the Jedi, noting how good his blacksmith friend was at his job.

"Well, come on, the suitor should be arriving soon," said Fleur as she began to drag Storm with her as both needed to be in the throne room.

The main hall was lined and decorated with tons of banners and curtains. The entire castle was decorated as they were awaiting their guest's arrival. In the throne room, every guard, servant, and maid stood off to the side as they stood at attention. Night Light and Velvet were on the thrones, wearing their crowns and royal outfits. Spike sat on a small chair of his own next to his parents as he just had to show up so that all the royal family members, apart from Shining Armor and Cadance, could show the proper respect for their guest.

Storm stood off to the royal family's side as he stood at attention. The boy could see this was a big deal as the chefs made an entire banquet. Soon the sounds of the trumpets blared as everyone turned to look at the guard by the door.

"Announcing the arrival of Duke Riegan's son, Lord Shade!"

The trumpets blared once more as the doors opened. In came some guards belonging to the house of Riegan as they stood to the side and revealed none other than the suitor himself. The boy had a smile on his face as he wore a proper suit and made his way into the throne room. The servants of the royal family all bowed to show respect; the Duke's son stood before the royal family as they nodded.

"Your Majesty," said Shade as the teen bowed to acknowledge the respect the royal family deserved.

"You must be Duke Riegan's son. On behalf of my family and me, we welcome you to our humble home!" said Night Light.

"Thank you. May I present you with some gifts," said Shade as he snapped his fingers, and the servants that came with him began to bring forth the offerings for the royal family.

"Oh, my!" said Velvet as she was given a huge bouquet of flowers.

"Nice!" shouted Spike as he was handed some new comics to read.

"We appreciate your generosity," said Night Light.

"Nothing for the best, for the royal family. Especially for the princess," said Shade as he presented a sapphire necklace in a box and showed it off to the King.

"I see. Well then, let me present to you, my daughter... Princess Twilight Sparkle!" announced Night Light as he gestured his hand to a side door.

Emerging was Twilight, as she wore a fancy dress and had her hair done in a bun. The princess stood for all to see, Storm glancing from the side as he looked at the girl. He smiled as if seeing the girl standing there; she looked like an angel. The girl walked as she stood before Shade, the pair giving a friendly smile.

"Princess..." said Shade as he bowed to a knee and grabbed Twilight's hand, "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. The heavens itself cannot compare to your beauty." The boy then kissed the back of Twilight's hand.

"I appreciate the kind words," responded Twilight as the Duke's son stood up.

"Allow me to bestow this upon you. A token of affection," said Shade as he presented the necklace to the princess.

The boy stepped behind Twilight as he slipped the necklace on. The girl looked at the accessory as she admitted it looked beautiful.

"It's... lovely," said Twilight, turning to look at Shade, who had a smile of delight.

"To be honest, a book would be better," muttered Storm, who was watching the interaction.

"Now then, let us treat you and your servants to a warm welcome," said Night Light as everybody began to file out.

"Perhaps, you'd like to take a walk with me, Princess. Perhaps we can have a chance to get to know each other," said Shade as he offered his arm.

"Yes," said Twilight, though she wasn't fully confident.

The girl wrapped her arm around the boy's as he led them away. Storm watched them as he could see the fake smile that Twilight was putting on. He was about to start following them when he was stopped in his tracks by Night Light. The King gave the death glare to the Jedi.

"Let me make this clear, Jedi. You are not to interfere with my daughter's business. This is a chance for her to find a suitable husband. And I will not allow some orphan to stop my daughter from achieving her birthright. I warn you, boy. Should this meeting go south, I will pass judgment and have your head served to me on a silver platter. Do I make myself clear?!"

"Yes..."

"Yes, what?" demanded Night Light.

"Yes, your Highness," responded Storm.

Night Light held his expression as he left with his wife as Spike went to his room to read his new comics. Storm was left alone in the throne room as he processed what the King told him. He took a deep breath as he began to leave to find Twilight and do his job as her personal guard to keep an eye on her.

"So, Shade? Tell me about yourself?" asked Twilight as she and he walked down some stairs, their arms interlocked.

"Well, I'm heir to the noble house Riegan. Perhaps you've heard of it?"

"House Riegan is the main source of where we obtain our fish and other sea life. The land where the house was created has a nice lake and rivers where people can fish and grow vegetables," said Twilight.

"Smart and beautiful. You really are a princess," said Shade.

Storm had managed to find the pair as he followed them from a fair distance. The boy listened in on what they were talking about.

"So, Princess, if I might ask, is there anything you enjoy?"

"I... I love to read books. About any subject. And I love to study and practice magic."

"Then perhaps should this go the way we plan, then I'll make sure that my servants bring you all the books you desire," said Shade with a smirk.

Storm rolled his eyes as he could tell that Shade was trying his hardest to impress Twilight. In his opinion, if the necklace wasn't enough, saying to the girl that he would get any book she wanted was really desperate. They soon began to walk toward the garden as they saw the many flowers blooming.

"Tell me, Princess. How do you view your servants?" asked Shade.

"I treat them as if they're my equal. My family and I treat everyone working for us like regular individuals. We don't treat anybody lower than us with disrespect." said Twilight.

"A kind heart is a suitable trait for a ruler and a wife," said Shade. "I've also heard the tales of you saving Equis a few times."

"Y-Yes, I didn't do it alone, though. I had some help from my friends and... my bodyguard," said Twilight as she turned to look at Storm, standing behind them a few meters.

"Tell me, good sir, how is it serving the Princess?" asked Shade to Storm.

"Well, if her highness will let me speak," said Storm, looking at Twilight.

"You may," responded the girl, though she was hesitant about what Storm might say.

"Serving the Princess is a rather... task in itself," said Storm.

"How so?" questioned Shade.

"Well, if you like uptight, annoyingly organized, and interested in the most boring and excruciatingly lame things that no sensible person would ever want to know about. Not to mention, late-night reading..."

"That was one time!" spoke Twilight, shooting a glare at her partner.

"If your definition of one-time is multiple sessions in a row, then whatever floats your boat, Princess," smirked Storm.

"Oh, please," scoffed Twilight.

"Let's not also forget the bed of books you made," snickered the boy.

"A book as a pillow is rather comfy," snickered Twilight, shooting her guard a smile, "Besides, no one had to force you to stay with me."

"You're right, but it's my duty to stick by your side, Princess. I am, after all, your personal guard."

"Then maybe I ask your replacement to be someone who doesn't make fun of my actions," said Twilight getting in Storm's face.

"Like you could replace me, your highness. Besides, who would carry you to bed after you fall asleep on your books," responded Storm, getting close to Twilight's face.

The two Jedi glared at the other with a playful smile at their little banter. Shade was off to the side as he looked at how the princess and her guard addressed each other before clearing his throat to gain their attention.

"Yes, well, thank you for that input," said Shade.

The noble began to lead Twilight away before she stuck her tongue out at Storm as they walked. The Jedi had a smirk on his face as he followed them.

"So, Princess. I hear that you're also a Jedi," said Shade as the pair came to a small gazebo and sat down; Storm stood on the other side as he watched them.

"Yes. As a matter of fact, I'm the first ever in my entire family legacy to be a Jedi," answered Twilight.

"Interesting. I never thought a princess could be one. Let me ask you something, do you find it worthwhile?"

"Huh?"

"Let me explain. As a princess, your sole duty is to inherit the throne and watch over your people. You sit and let the others do the work for you. But as a Jedi, you're a warrior fighting in a war. I want to know why you are taking part in it when you can choose to ignore it?" asked Shade.

"Okay, this dude's a dumbass," muttered Storm at what he heard the noble say.

"For the record, I'm not fighting a war because I'm a Jedi. I'm fighting because I want to bring peace to the galaxy. I'm fighting in this war so my own planet doesn't get involved. While I may be a princess, as a Jedi, I've learned and seen some things that I probably would not have known had I stuck here my whole life. Besides, I can handle being shot at." said Twilight.

"Being shot at?" said Shade as he was stunned to hear the princess say people would try to kill her. "And you let her go?"

"Bro, I'm her partner," said Storm.

Twilight facepalmed at what Storm had just said.

"Partner? You, but..."

"Long story short, our masters put us together, and since then, we've encountered a lot of things. And I made the decision to have Storm as my personal guard. Could you also excuse us for one sec?" smiled Twilight sheepishly.

The girl approached Storm as she grabbed the front of his armor and dragged him away. They approached a statue as they went behind it, and some fighting sounds could be heard. Some shouting also followed as Twilight emerged from behind the statue a few moments later as her appearance and attire were a mess. Storm soon emerged as he, like Twilight, was also a mess with scuff marks on his clothes and skin.

Shade had a concerned look as Twilight approached the noble.

"So... where did we leave off?" smiled the girl as she swatted a messy strand away from her face.

For the rest of the day, Twilight spent time with Shade as she was doing her job of getting to know the noble. As for Storm, he did what Night Light warned him about as he kept a good distance from the pair so that Twilight could fulfill her duty. Looking on, Storm could see that Shade wasn't what he thought he would be. He seemed genuinely nice, though he could tell the noble was trying too hard to gain Twilight's attention.

Honestly, all he needed to do to impress the girl was give her a book and listen to her ramble on. He should know; he'd done it plenty of times. Eventually, Twilight began to show Shade around town. The noble was amazed by the many shops and sights offered by the girl's home. While walking, Storm noticed Twilight was looking at a specific book in the store, but she had to walk away when Shade called out to her.

Soon they all made it back to the castle, where the banquet was about to start. Twilight's entire family was waiting for them as they guided the pair to the dining hall. Night Light stopped Storm for a second as he glared at the Jedi. The King entered the dining hall and shut the door behind him, signaling that he was not invited. The Jedi took a deep breath as he headed in a different direction.

"So, how did it go?" asked Fleur, seated in the kitchen at one of the tables.

"I mean, he's not an asshole like I thought he was," responded Storm.

The Jedi was seated with Coco, Fleur, and Shenran as Gustave brought them their meals.

"Not all nobles are, how do you say, ze stick-up," said Gustave.

"That's stuck up, Gustave," corrected Coco to the man.

"Well, if he's a nice guy, then Twilight is a lucky girl," stated Shenran as he dipped his spoon into his bowl. "The way he gave her and the royal family all those gifts. I think they'll like having him a part of their bloodline."

"And you're okay with this?" asked Fleur to Storm.

"Why would I not be?" responded the Jedi. "If the guy makes Twilight happy, then that's that. I'm merely her personal guard and partner. Her personal life is none of my concern. My only role is to keep her safe."

"That's... not what I was trying to say," stated Fleur as it seemed the boy didn't hear what she meant by her question.

"What Fleur is trying to say, Storm is... uhm... are you okay with letting Twilight go?" said Coco with an uneasy smile.

"Okay, let me set the record straight here. I treat Twilight as a grown woman. And the only thing I want is for her to be happy; that's not me saying it because I'm your partner; it's the promise I made when we became friends. As her friend, I want to make sure that she's happy. And if she feels a connection between her and someone else, she wants to pursue it. Then I can't stop her, and I would be so stupid if I tried to. Even if I wasn't a Jedi, I would want what's best for my friend. There's nothing, like- It's not like I'm gonna slap the guy with an empty white glove and challenge him to duel on Main Street. It's just not how it works."

The girls were very much taken aback by what the boy said. Granted, he was a Jedi, which meant since he was a young kid, he'd been given adult responsibilities and expectations to meet, but to hear that answer from him was unexpected.

"Talk about a real answer," muttered Fleur to Coco.

"Same here. If I was Twilight, I would have expected more from him. You know, throw a bottle, flip the table, even punch the guy in the face. You know, do something. I get he can't get mad because he's a Jedi, but... do something to protect your girl."

"You two are really trying too hard," said Shenran to the girls. "If Storm says he's not bothered, then he's not bothered. Simple as that."

"Boys really are just simple," stated Fleur.

"Hey, we're not like you girls, all with your complexity and issues you overdramatic about," snickered Shernan as the two gave him a glare for making that comment.

While the Jedi was eating with the castle staff in the kitchen, the royal family welcomed and treated Shade as if he was already a family member in the dining hall. Twilight was seated next to him as the girl did her best to make conversation. Which thankfully wasn't a lot, as her father had taken over and talked with the young noble.

"So, Shade? What do you think of my daughter?" asked Night Light.

"The princess is an outstanding individual. Her beauty alone is only rivaled by the Goddess herself. The nighttime stars pale in comparison to her. As a princess, she is the ideal image." said the young noble.

Twilight heard that but felt unsatisfied.

"Glad to hear that. Then perhaps the arrangements for the marriage can proceed," said Night Light.

"Dear, so soon?" asked Velvet. "I know you wanted to marry me the second you laid eyes on me, but perhaps we should allow them to spend more time with each other?"

"Lord Shade, how about you and your servants spend the night in our castle? And tomorrow, we'll make way for Canterlot. I'm sure they're plenty of places for you to see. And perhaps find the perfect place to hold the wedding when it arrives." stated Night Light.

"I appreciate your generous gesture, your Majesty."

"Twilight, what do you think?" asked Velvet to her daughter.

"I'm... all for it," said the girl, giving a fake smile, but enough to fool everyone.

It seemed the countdown to midnight would be here faster than she anticipated. For when the clock strikes twelve, her freedom would be over. And she... would become a prisoner.

It was evening, and the sky was bathed in orange color. Nighttime was about to be upon the planet. Storm was walking in one of the halls as he had removed his armor outfit and was in the casual attire that Twilight had given him. He was minding his business as Twilight had dismissed him for some alone time. The boy decided to get some late training sessions in when he was stopped in his tracks. The Jedi saw that it was Shade himself who was blocking his path.

"Is there anything you need, your nobleness?" Storm asked the young elite.

"Yes. Perhaps you and I can chat," said Shade as he began to walk.

The Jedi Knight followed suit as soon, the pair were in the courtyard. Shade was in front of Storm as he had his back turned to the Jedi. The wind blew in their faces as the Jedi awaited to see why the noble had brought him here.

"So... what's the reason-"

"Tell me, what are your opinions on the princess?" asked Shade.

"What do you mean?" asked Storm.

"Tell me, as her assigned guard, what do you think of her?"

"I think she's a strong, independent girl who can care for herself. She's a powerful Jedi who can hold her own in battle. And as a princess, I believe she'll be the ruler the people will look up to."

"Now, what are your personal opinions about her?" said Shade.

"Personal opinions?" questioned Storm.

"Be honest with me. The way you talk with her, how you argue, and how you act with one another. It's not how friends act. It's something two people who feel strongly about the other would act."

Storm raised his eyebrow at what this noble in front of him was trying to suspect.

"Isn't it forbidden for a Jedi to have romantic ties? Hmm, Jedi. If that were the case, you would be banished from the order, would you not?" said Shade.

"If you're trying to blackmail me," spoke Storm.

"I'm not. I'm just saying perhaps, you feel for Twilight. Would you go so far as to say you love her?" questioned the noble.

"Okay, dude. Let me ask you something? Are you high?" stated Storm.

"Here me out. You see, animals have a mate and a certain look in their eyes when they're in love. And based on how you two act and look at each other, it's obvious that you two have it."

"Okay, dude. Now I know you're smoking something," stated Storm as he turned to leave.

"So, you do love her?" spoke Shade as the Jedi stopped in his tracks.

"Whatever ideas you want to believe is none of my concern. But as far as Twilight and I. I'm... merely her friend and personal guard. My only concern is her safety. Now... am I close to her? We've been partners for so long. You're bound to get to know the person you spend most of your time with. I know her likes and dislikes cause I'm always next to her, in the library, on the battlefield, and everywhere we go, I'm always by her side. But that's because I'm fulfilling my duty. She doesn't treat this relationship as princess and knight but as friends. That's why she acts so differently with me. Plain and simple."

"So... would you mind if I asked for her hand in marriage? If I... kissed her? Right in front of you?" tempted Shade.

"I'm a Jedi," answered Storm.

"So you are," said the noble, "let me challenge you to a battle. Let me see who the individual that the princess has chosen as her personal guard is."

"Really?" scoffed Storm as he found what Shade was doing to be stupid.

He was further proven right when he saw the noble pull out a sword and hold it in his hand.

"The princess says you are a powerful warrior. I shall test your strength to see if you are worthy of protecting her."

He really is an idiot.

"Face me one on one, without using your Jedi tricks," said Shade as Storm stood there with an unamused look and crossed his arms.

"I can't believe this is happening," responded the boy.

"On the count of three. Draw your weapon and fight," responded the noble.

"Fine. One two three!" shouted Storm quickly as he lunged forward in the blink of an eye with his lightsaber.

"Wha? Wait a second!" shouted Shade.

Storm moved so fast that he didn't give the noble a chance to get a steady grip on his sword. The Jedi came at him as he swung his lightsaber from left to right in a blur; the noble found himself being pushed back by how strong Storm's attacks were. The Jedi spun to kick the noble's head as he stumbled back. Shade stopped as he found his hand empty; his sword was gone when he looked up, Storm was bringing the sword down as the metal bonked him in the head, and he fell.

The noble lay there for a few moments before he began to move. He grunted as he sat up and looked at the Jedi. Storm dropped his weapon by the noble's feet as he turned off his lightsaber. The Jedi turned as he began to walk.

"So... I see," said Shade, watching the Jedi, who was Twilight's guard, walking away. "The princess made a wise decision choosing you."

Storm heard that as he stopped. The Jedi stood there with his eyes closed. Silence followed. The breeze of the wind gentling and rustling the leaves of the trees could be heard. The boy focused and concentrated his mind as he took in what was said.

"The duty of the princess' knight is to never leave her side," said Storm as he walked off.

Morning came, and to Night Light's surprise, Lord Shade informed him of his departure. The King was shocked by hearing this, especially when Shade told him he was calling off the proposition. The elite was in front of the castle gates as his servants loaded the carriages.

"Are you sure about this, Lord Shade?" asked Night Light.

"Perhaps we cannot convince you to stay a little longer?" asked Velvet.

"I appreciate all that you've done for me, your Majesties. But I'm afraid I must return home. Please give the princess my regards and tell her it was an honor to meet someone who will be a great ruler." said Shade.

"Of course," said Night Light, a bit disappointed that the noble wasn't going to marry his daughter.

"Fare thewell!" said the noble as he got in his carriage.

The many carriages began to stroll down the path. Night Light and Velvet waved goodbye until they were out of range. The King then looked at one of the guards nearby as he had a serious expression.

"Where is the Jedi?" demanded Night Light, knowing Storm had something to do with this.

Storm was on a hill as he was watching the clouds roll by. Nearby was his horse companion, Spirit, as the animal was grazing. The Jedi was looking at the sky, feeling the cool breeze.

"Can I join?" said Twilight.

The boy turned as he saw the princess get off her horse in casual attire. She had a satchel around her body as she walked to where her partner was seated.

"I heard Shade told his father and yours that he was leaving," said Storm.

"Yeah. He said that he was no longer interested."

"Really?"

"I even back the necklace he gave me," said Twilight.

"Huh? I thought you would have liked that," responded the boy.

"It's pretty and all. But... I don't need something fancy. Just a simple book will do fine," said the princess as she sat next to her friend.

"Speaking of which, I got you this," said Storm as he picked up a book next to him and presented it to the girl. "I noticed you were looking at it yesterday, so I thought I'd get it for you."

"Wow!" said Twilight, grabbing the book and flipping through it. "This is..."

"The latest edition. Figured you'd want it for your collection. I've spent so much time with you that I know what you like." responded the boy with a caring smile.

"Thank you," said Twilight with her own smile.

The princess leaped forward and wrapped her arms around the boy's neck. She had her head on his shoulder as she closed her eyes. Storm brought one of his arms up to wrap around Twilight as he sniffed her lavender-scented hair. Twilight broke the hug as she placed the book in her lap; the girl leaned against Storm as they began to read it together.

Night Light was watching them, as the King was unhappy with what he saw.

"Jedi," growled the King.

"Nighty, dear. Is this really necessary?" asked Velvet, seated on her horse.

"I warned the boy to not interfere, and I know that he had a hand in what happened," stated Night Light.

"Maybe... but there's still time for Twilight to get engaged. It's not the end of the world if one person doesn't want to marry her. There are still tons of suitors. But there's one person that she'll need to remain by her side. Besides, he's doing his job of keeping her safe." said Velvet.

Night Light took in what his wife was saying as he looked at the teens. Seeing his daughter leaning against her partner as they read the book together and giggled. For a moment, Night Light saw a vision of him and Velvet when they were the kids' ages.

"Shall I give the order, sir?" asked one of the guards as a small group of classes accompanied the King so that they could dispose of the Jedi as instructed.

"Stand down... for now," said Night Light.

The other classes looked at each other before putting their weapons and tomes away. The King walked back as he got on his horse. He gave a hand gesture to the soldiers as they all rode off. Velvet trotted alongside her husband as she smiled and grabbed her husband's hand. Night Light couldn't help but smile at his wife as they trotted down the road with the rest of the guards following them.

Author's Note: And so we're back to Twilight's home, however... it seems what they intentially planned will have to wait. It seems Twilight has a ton of things to catch up on due to her deadline coming up. And one of them is meeting a potential suitor; and Night Light warning Storm to not get involvedduring these meetings between Twilight and others. In addition, the boy seeing how the people of Equis are still afraid of him as a Jedi due to that they've never encountered one. Also, the Cakes saying to Storm that they want him to be their kids' guardian is basically him becoming their godparent, so his duty of keeping them safe and helping them to grow in life. As always, leave a review expressing your thoughts and comments.