Author's Note: Hey everybody! Swiftriff here, back with more tales to tell with Vincent and the god-awful cliffhanger you see in majority of stories out there xD
I can't tell you how thoroughly happy it made me to see old, familiar faces reading and commenting on the story, as well as new faces to enjoy what this tale has in store! It really means a lot to see this, and am happy to be back and writing. Though it is taking time since I write/type inbetween my time, along with handling the art stuff and any IRL obligations. But don't worry! I'm currently almost done writing Ch.35 and will be typing/editing it soon.
Just wanted to give you all a headsup, and if you wanna keep in touch, just send me a PM regarding invites to my Discord Server!
Now for the SHOUTOUTS!:
Blobking - If you mean what are the Twins doing at the Boutique, you no longer have to wait my dood! Press on and the answer shall be YOURS!
- Wait no longer my dood! Chapter 34 is now here!
Flutterdash123 - I KNOW RIGHT?! I'm sorry it's been so long, I really am. But I'm back and bringing ya more adventures to be had. Thank YOU my dood for being so patient! cx
Dman112 - It's about time we get some honest reaction from the stiff! xD
ShiningShadow1965 - Gotta add some spice in your night, am I right?! Had a good time with this, and so did our two loverbirds xp
Anonanon-E-Mouse - Thank you my dood! I went back and corrected that ASAP.
This concludes the shoutouts, and now, LETS PRESS ON WITH THE STORY!
Chapter 34 – Summoned
After realizing the two ponies before me were the Royal Guard twins, Shieldoath and Swordsworn, Sword held his incapacitated sister against him, keeping her from falling to the ground.
"Sis! Are you alright? Sis?!" He asked in alarm, concerned for the well-being of his sister.
His glare trailed up to meet my gaze, as I witnessed the vexing look of hostility on his face, his very being leaving a disturbing aura to him that made me feel uneasy.
Suddenly, a chuckle was heard, snapping our attention back to Shieldoath as her face was flustered. Her eyes remained with the silliest, yet cutesy smile she made as the pink pony sung softly in a drunken stupor.
"Ehehe~... I saw Vivi's Swoooord~." Swordsworn consoled his twin sister, returning a sharp glare back at me.
"How can you be so indecent as to greet us with practically Nothing on?!" I scratched the back of my head quizzically, feeling he was being just a bit temperamental for the events that has taken place.
"To be completely fair, you were very insistent on being answered. I felt much in a hurry that I didn't have the time to dress up." I crossed my arms as I retorted.
Swordsworn was ready to snap back before a soft, pink hand gently covered his mouth. He looked down to see his sister smiling sweetly up at him, shushing her twin brother to compose himself before she sat up. Her pink face still beet red, yet composing herself enough as she sat up to face me.
"Sorry about that Vivi. You really caught me by surprise there." She giggles with a fluster. I kept my arms crossed, giving Shieldoath a comforting smile.
"It's okay Shield. If anything, I should be apologizing to you for having you see me this way." Swordsworn only stared with a narrowed gaze, certainly still bitter about the issue, yet Shieldoath on the other-hand didn't seem to see it the same way.
"Oh, it's okay. I um... actually didn't mind." Shield assured timidly, giggling with a fluster. She had such an adoring image about her, but I never pegged her as the nervous type.
Snapped out of my thoughts, her brother voiced out rather impatiently.
"Anyways! Please get dressed Vincent so we may escort you to Canterlot. The Princess wishes to speak with you." I tilt my head in wonder, curious as to why the Princess wished to speak with me, and about what.
"Which of the Princesses wanted to see me?" I asked with curiosity. Swordsworn's expression was becoming more passive, the tension easing while holding his serious nature upon replying.
"Princess Celestia, Luna, and Chrysalis all wish to speak with you." Sword replied. Yet upon noticing my questioning look, he continued, "and no, I do not know what is the purpose pertaining to this gathering." My eyes shift between Sword's serious demeanor, and Shield's still-flustered gaze. Seeing that nothing more can help elate my questions, the only thing to do was to answer their summon, and go to Canterlot.
"Alright, let me get decent and let Rarity know what's going on. You both wanna come in?" I gestured towards the entryway. They looked to each other from my offer before they nod in approval and were welcomed inside the Boutique.
"Oooooh, this place is pretty, and BIG." Shieldoath awed in admiration, her soft blue eyes ever curious as they wandered around the establishment before viewing some of the clothing. Sword was observing the establishment as well, nodding in approval.
"This is quite the tidy abode. It's very welcoming with a sense of grandeur." Swordsworn complimented.
"Yea, Rarity really knows how to spruce up the place. She has a knack for attention to detail." I responded, earning more nods of agreement from Sword.
Seeing the twins occupied, I bid them a moments leave as I turned away to make my way up the stairs, approaching the Master room where Rarity remained to slumber peacefully, finding her slender abalone-colored form snuggled against the pillow left to substitute for myself.
I smiled upon the adoring sight, her body gently rising and lowering with each peaceful breath she took. Her snores were as gentle and charming to hear as it muffles against the plush pillow. It almost seemed a crime to disturb such a lovely sight, yet as I approached Rarity, I gently placed my hands on her arms.
Her soft, delicate lips part with a confused groan. Turning against her back as she looked up at me with tired eyes, the blanket slide's as her body shifts away, revealing her soft, white breasts barely peaking out from under her covers. Yet with a sleepy gaze, she smiles at me with love and warmth.
As she repositioned herself to get a better look at me, I reached down with my right hand, cupping her soft cheeks before lowering my lips, pressing them tenderly upon hers.
She mew's in delight, her hands reaching out to cup my cheeks, feeling her fingers burying into the back of my dark hair. A moment's kiss holds such bliss, each second savored with love, care, and appreciation between the two of us.
Our lips slowly part, gazing into each others eyes as I was engulfed in Rarity's brilliant sapphire gaze. The tender sensation of my marefriends hands stroking my hair pulled me out of those brilliant blue cesspools and back to reality.
I blinked what senses I had back, smiled at Rarity before opening my lips to speak.
"Sorry to wake you up sweetie. I wanted to let you know that I'm being summoned by the Princesses. Apparently they wish to speak to me about something."
"Oh? Sounds important. I take it you're not certain of what the topic may be, hmm?" Rarity responds, finding her curious on the matter as I replied with a shake of my head.
"I have no idea. I just hope it's not something dire." Rarity's expression grew uneasy, probably worried of what might have occurred.
Rarity eep's in surprise as I kissed her, putting her at ease before holding her in a warm embrace.
"Don't worry. I'm sure everything will be fine." She sighs in relieve upon my reassurance, gripping me tighter in her arms.
"Hmm, you're probably right. I'm sorry dear, I just... get so nervous. I worry that you might get hurt, or..." She paused, nibbling her lips while nuzzling against my chest before she continues softly.
"I feel like such a clingy mare." To her surprise, I chuckled, finding the thought silly yet adoring as I held close against her.
"It's alright Rarity. It just shows that you really care. Besides, you're my clingy mare.~" I smirk with a toothy grin, earning a hearty laugh from Rarity as she pats my chest.
"You are such a card." She strokes my bare chest with her tender fingers, peering into my eyes with her exotic, half-lidded gaze. Wiping a stray tear from her eye as she ushered.
"My beloved, handsome man." Her sweet, enthralling tone making my heart race, heating me with jubilation for the mare in my arms. Yet with a grin, I caress her soft cheek delicately, gently burying my fingers in her silky smooth curls.
She place her hand on top of mine, nuzzling against my palm before I leaned in to lock lips with her's in a deep, tender kiss once more.
After a moment has passed, relished in loving bliss, our lips slowly part as Rarity sighs happily.
"I'm going to miss you darling." She utters softly. Feeling happy with being desired and loved, I was going to miss her as well. It's been some time since I've first arrived here in Equestria, and I couldn't help but think about the importance of being summoned. What if... perhaps, this may involve a way back to Earth... back to my home world?
Shaking the thought from my mind, I went to put on some clothes, getting properly dressed as Rarity watched, sitting upright in bed as she enjoyed the spectacle, biting her lips in a pleased manner.
Swinging my jacket around and dressing myself, feeling it comfortingly envelop my body and fastening my harness against my body before turning to face Rarity. She had a look of admiration as she gazed at my display, clearly pleased by what she see's.
With a confident grin, turning side to side with arms out, before resting my hands on my hips with a strong composure. I turned to see myself, the person I have become after the time I have been here in this new land, this new world. What was expected of me, and yet I wouldn't be standing here if it wasn't for everyone. I would dare say even Davian as well, for helping me, training me, for whatever lies ahead. With a relieving exhale, I cast my gaze towards Rarity and smiled.
"Thank you Rarity." I spoke with sincerity and gratitude. Rarity tilt her head, taken unexpectedly by my words as she asks.
"For what darling?" Awaiting my answer, I couldn't help but admire the look and feel of my attire, how it fits my body without restraint, how it appealed to my preference, even beyond my earlier expectation.
It reminds me of what Rarity has done for me, for the short time I've been here. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for my marefriend, as well as the others.
"For everything. I don't know what I'd do if I've never met you, or everypony else. So... Thank you." My eyes trailed down, a smile on my face as I gaze at the floor, slowly drifting to thought.
I didn't hear the bed shuffle, or notice Rarity drawing closer, as she lifted my chin up to meet her heartwarming gaze.
"You do not need to thank us darling. We are just as thankful to have you come into our lives, and wish only for the best for you." Her soft hands caressed my cheek, gazing at each other lovingly before she parts my hair to the side and exhales.
"I love you." She states sweetly.
"I love you too." I replied. She pats my chest before turning me around, laying herself back as her magic nudged me towards the door to dismiss me.
"Now go darling. I'm certain you don't wish to keep everypony waiting." Rarity bids in her sweet manner. Her magic guiding me to the bedroom door leading to the hall. I turned to face her, seeing her alluring gaze, lips curled in a loving smile as I smiled back with a chuckle.
"Alright, I'm going. I'll let you know what happens when I get back. And... I'll be sure to give Luna your love and regards." Thankful from my words, I left Rarity and closed the door behind me before returning back downstairs to Shield and Sword.
Seeing them waiting expectantly at the foot of the stairs, patiently, as I finish bidding my farewells to Rarity.
"Sorry to keep you both waiting." I apologized. Shieldoath, with her bright welcoming smile never faltering from earlier, replies with a dismissive wave of her hand.
"Oh it's no big deal Vivi. Everything good?" Stepping down and now standing beside the twins, I nod.
"Yea, everything is good, and I'm ready to go now."
"Great!" Shieldoath exclaims. Then with a sudden weight latched against my back, Shield held me in a soft embrace with both arms and legs, despite her smooth armor pressed against my backside, as I involuntarily gave her a piggyback ride.
"Now let's go!" She urges, pressing her cheeks against mine as she held herself close to me. I looked to Swordsworn as he smiled in amusement before leading the way out of the Boutique, with myself following along as we make our way to meet the Princesses.
Vincent's POV – Canterlot
Arriving to Canterlot via train, and relieved from having Shieldoath off my back, we now stood in front of the Castle of Canterlot.
Despite how posh and snob some of the ponies of Canterlot tend to be, it was a welcoming sight to see Changelings acclimating and fitting in.
There were moments in passing that the newcomers were treated "beneath" the high-class unicorns. But it's better then being viewed as monsters, instead they were associated just like any other ponies visiting Canterlot.
Though some may harbor some grudge or disdain towards the Changelings, I could only hope that in time, all will turn for the better.
As we approached the steps to the entrance of the castle, two guards stood by opposite sides of the entrance, standing firm as they guardedthe large, violet double-doors that leads inside the castle.
Swordsworn stepped forward, earning a salute from his fellow guards before announcing.
"Vincent here has been summoned by the Princesses, and as such, is permitted to enter." The guards lowered their arms, and with a nod, they stood aside, drawing their weapons close to allow passage.
Entering the castle and making our way up more stairs towards the throne room, I took notice of the additions made to the décor. Where gold and navy blue banners decorated the walls, now an additional emerald and coal banner draped alongside the other banners, with the etching of what appears to be the face of the Changeling Queen adorned the center of these emerald banners.
It has been sometime since I have last visited, and seeing the inclusion of Chrysalis, who is now fellow Princess of Equestria, representing the land along with her Changeling drones in the ranks among fellow guards. I have to say... it's a welcoming change.
"Sure feels different. Huh Vivi?" Shieldoath's voice snaps me from my musing, looking back to see her smiling, her head tilted adorably as she stares at me.
"It sure does. Though it's not such a bad thing." I replied, Shieldoath nods in agreement before I added.
"And it adds some more color to the place too." Shield blinks for a moment, before snorting to a chuckle. Looking to Swordsworn, who's leading us to the throne room, I caught a glimpse of an amused smile decorating his face. It was nice knowing that even Sword seemed warmed up to this change as well.
We come to a stop in front of the doors leading to the throne room, the twins standing beside each other, off to the side of the entry.
"Go ahead Vincent. We'll be right here waiting for ya." Says Shieldoath, urging me onward with a tilt of her head.
I proceeded forward, opening the large doors as I make my way inside. The sound of my footstep echoes around the near-empty chamber, with only Celestia, Luna, and Chrysalis sitting upon their respective thrones.
Seeing one another, the three alicorn princesses stood on their hooves, descending their steps as I approached them. I couldn't help to feel a bit... anxious, even though the princesses worn a welcoming smile, leaving no thought of tension about them when Celestia was the first to speak.
"Welcome Vincent. It is so good to see you again. You look quite well." I bowed sincerely before replying.
"Thank you Celestia. It is good to see you all." My gaze turned to Chrysalis, as I spoke.
"And it's good to see you as well. Though, I'm having trouble if... I should address you as Queen, Princess..." She chuckled in amusement, her stature showed power despite how relaxed she stood before answering.
"It is fine. It is my Changeling subjects who continues addressing me as their Queen. Old habits I suppose. Though I now stand as equal alongside my dear fellow rulers. As such, I am addressed as 'Princess'." I nod in understanding. But before I can open my mouth to speak, Chrysalis' gleaming eyes focused upon me as she spoke in a more alluring fashion.
"But in your case, you may address me as 'Chrysalis'. After all, my sisters-in-rule hold you with great respect, as do I." Staring at her predator-like gaze as it sends shivers up my spine. I was conflicted between intimidation and bashfulness from her words and display as I nervously respond.
"Th-thank you Chrysalis." Rubbing the back of my head, Celestia and Luna chuckles from my flustered display, enjoying the scene before returning to the matter at hand as Celestia resumes.
"We are all thankful to be reunited once more. It has been so long and we do hope to restore the land into a better one. But now, as to the reason on why you were summoned. It has come to my attention that some ponies have considered you to be a... knight of sort." Taken by surprise, hearing Chrysalis chuckle with amusement as I looked towards Luna, she had a giddy smile as she eagerly waits while Celestia continues.
"And after discussing with my co-rulers, we ask if you wish to be officially knighted, or to be more precise, being officiated as Princess Luna's Royal Knight."