Canterlot [Throne Room] Equestria's Voice [Open-Read Rules]

[Lux]

"That's not quite what I meant, Sir Light. Perhaps the Princess can phrase my words better."

He looked up at the the guard wondering what exactly he meant. For an older colt he did feel that he explained his issue enough for an adult to understand it, especially a fellow unicorn who was more adept to understanding magic. Maybe though there was something else, a part that the yellow unicorn was just not understanding in what the guard was telling him. He had no time to ask though as suddenly he was ushered into that majestic throne room, making it now his turn! His mind spun as he looked at the beautiful space, not getting the full time to enjoy its splendor. And there she was, Princess Celestia herself seated on her throne. Of course Guiding Light had seen the Princess before on her occasional tours of his home town of Ponyville, but at no time prior was the colt able to get this close to the Princess of the Sun much less speak with her one on one. It was partly his fault though as his shyness held him at bay even though there were those golden moments that he could meet her. But now was the chance to ask what he had been searching for.

Your highness, A sir Guiding Light... also from Ponyville."

The "sir" part of the introduction threw Guiding Light for a brief moment. While he knew that being a colt he could be a sir, it made him think about those fantasy books he read about knights being referred to as Sir. He then realized as the guard ushered the filly away that it was now just him and the Princess. To him though it could have been him standing alone on a stage while a sea of ponies looked at him for the fear that raced through his body. He didn't want to blow this chance so he mustered up the courage he could and took a deep breath before speaking.

"Good day Princess Celestia," he said with a bow, wondering if this was a good start. After all, wasn't the Princess the one who brought about the day and thus would know if it was good?

"I'm Guiding Light, as your guard Silver said. I came here from Ponyville because I need help... about my magic. I just got my cutie mark a few years ago which I've been told relates to my light magic."

As if to prove himself, the colt turned slightly, revealing his mark to the Princess, a metal lantern with a lit flame inside.

"My problem is that I don't know much about light magic like different spells and things I can do with it. All the books i could get my hooves onto only mention light magic a little and I talked to practically all the adult unicorns in Ponyville but they were unsure. I even talked to Princess Twilight Sparkle, I think I heard once that you taught her, and she just gave me the advice to practice which is great and I've been doing every night i can. I know that with my light I can help other ponies to see in the dark, but there should be more to it, right? I figured since you can move the sun which is the biggest light around, and being a Princess, you can help me. I really want to learn more about how to use light magic and what to use it for."

Guiding Light finished, a little out of breath, hoping that Princess Celestia understood and more importantly could help.

Image of Guiding Light made by Zoebel12. Thanks!

[starswirlthebearded]

Another young pony from Ponyville? Though this time a colt... without parental guidance? It would seem that her guards would be escorting yet another young pony back to his home in Ponyville after this. However, first she would have to listen to his request and answer it as best to her abilities and knowledge. Unlike the last pony who asked for her help, this would be more in line with the princess's vast field of knowledge, having studied it extensively in her youth. However, though she knew much about light magic, the colt was severely mislead. The moving of a celestial object had little to do with light magic. "Greetings Guiding Light. Thank you so much for coming all this way to seek help. It is unfortunate that my former pupil Princess Twilight Sparkle was unable to assist you. She is usually far better at tutoring young ponies such as yourself in magic."

Celestia looked gently upon the colt to start addressing what he said. "The raising and setting the sun has little to do with the control of light, my little colt." Celestia began to explain. "My ability to control celestial bodies has to do with an innate, and learned connection with them, not with the light they emit." Celestia finished her brief explanation. "Light magic, is one form of elemental magic that takes time and understanding to learn. While practice is important, it is also important to try new things with your magic and to learn the principles of the magic and element which you control and bend to your will. I have seen ponies with special talents in light based magic light rooms as if my sun was shining in, others remove the light completely and some control the light itself." Celestia finished the initial explanation, but if she had any hope of helping this colt she would need to know more.

"Now... I need to know what sort of light magic you possess. If you could show or explain it to me, perhaps I can help you, or at least point you in the direction of who or what can."

[moonshineTheleocat]

Java slowly turned his head around after hearing another set of hoof steps disappear into the throne room. He looked down to his vest, and move a paw to smooth out a wrinkle, thus bringing it back to perfection. After turning his body around completely, he'd trot closer to where the guard had been standing. Curiously, he looked around wandering where the armor clad pony had sauntered off to. His messy mane swishing through the air with each direction he looked. For a pony who wore metal on their hooves than most other ponies, these guards could really move quietly with them.

And then, soon enough he noticed the guard soon stepping back into the waiting area. “Good evening, ma'am,” Java uttered with a rather cheery note. A smile on his muzzle as he continued his greeting, “might I say that you are looking quite lovely toda-” He stopped immediately after hearing her voice.

"For now though, I believe your time is up. If you like I could ask a member of my troops to see you home."

His eyes slowly opening a bit wider in confusion. His gaze stuck to her as he studied her eyes for a moment. Such a curious pitch on a feminine body, he noted to himself.

And then it struck him like a Macintosh buck to the face. His jaw fell open as a blush appeared from his own embarrassment. Seering hatred for himself was now bubbling up in a cauldron of mixed emotions. This mare, turned out to be a stallion with such a feminine figure, he easily mistook him for a mare! How could he get this so easily confused. “Erm... s-sorry about that s-sir,” The pony apologized, his smile now became a warped with his own nervousness. “I-if it's any consolation, I will say I am not going to withdraw the statement.”

This was actually true as well. Either gender, the looks of another pony wouldn't matter to Java. The guard before him did look fantastic.

[Lux]

For a moment Guiding Light wasn't sure if he did the right thing mentioning Princess Twilight. He certainly didn't want to give the wrong impression that the lavender Alicorn wasn't helping him. The magic camp that the Princess put on and her encouragement to practice both were very good to the colt, giving him confidence not only in his magic but also in life. Gone were the days of the shy clumsy colt, now he was ready for whatever life gave him!

As Princess Celestia spoke, Light realized he made a wrong assumption about the Sun Princess, specifically her ability to control the celestial body that the colt was accustomed to greeting him in the morning and he bid farewell while at home at the evening. But in reality it was a deeper connection that made the Alicorn capable of in moving the celestial body, one that even the most learned ponies could comprehend let alone a certain yellow colt who was just getting a sense of his own magic.

Light focused on the princess with an unwavering attention the likes of which he had never done before on what somepony was saying, perhaps not even his teacher or parents. He understood that light like other magic such as fire or wind, Unlike the others though although he knew what light was to a certain extent he had yet to grasp the magical side of it despite it being his talent. But there was something that the Princess told him that was new, the fact that he had to explore and to control the very nature of the element. His ears perked up when he heard Celestia mention all that light magic can do, not just creating it but removing it from a space or controlling it.

"Really? Light magic can actually take light away? I just thought it could create more light, like lighting a candle in a room. But it makes sense though that if a pony like me can create it I can also remove it too or move it."

Light wasn't surprised that Princess Celestia asked him to demonstrate his talent. After all one had to know where they were before moving forward.

"Oh, sure I can definitely show you my light magic," he said before looking around an the sun filled throne room, one made brighter by the marble that reflected all light, "Er... I'm not sure how well you'll be able to see it in such a bright room Princess. I have trouble seeing my light magic even in the daytime when outdoors. Usually I have to practice at night or in a room with no windows."

[starswirlthebearded]

The colt was rather surprised at the explanation that Celestia gave at what light users were capable of. Though, in fairness, the removal of light was an exceedingly rare ability and few were capable of it, even in her long life. And, unfortunately, due to it's nature it wasn't always well met. While bringing light is a sign of hope, the removal of it can often be seen as the opposite. Still such talented light users could do other things other than remove light, but Tia decided not to dwell on such trivial things and focus on helping the colt.

"As I stated young colt, it is about understanding what it is that you are controlling. I could not hope to move the celestial bodies of the sky while being ignorant of what they are." Celestia gently explained to Guiding Light. "It is the same with any magic. All magic has requirements and one of the fundamental requirements is knowledge. It is part of the reason I founded The School for Gifted unicorns. Talent in magic can only get one so far." Celestia said smiling.

The colt then explained that his light magic was not very strong and that he could not show it well during the day in a bright room. This isn't the first time she has taught light users that were not strong in their own magic, and she expected this course of events. She gave a nod to the guards in the room as if to give them the signal to close the throne room doors temporarily. The princess looked at Silverheart who was acting as a connection between the ponies in queue and the princess herself. "Silverheart please let any curious parties know that the doors will soon be open again, I need to close them in order to help the young colt." Celestia said with an authoritative air as the doors slowly closed with the guards' magic enveloping them. With that Celestia's horn glowed itself and thick draperies covered the windows, letting in almost no light at all. "I do hope this will be sufficient to allow you to give me even a brief demonstration of your magic Guiding Light." Celestia said warmly as she awaited the colt's hopefully positive response.

[Lux]

The more that Guiding Light listened to the Princess, the more he wondered if it wasn't just some lack of knowledge of light magic that was his problem but lack of understanding the nature of light. He knew certainly as many ponies did where it came from such as the sun, moon, a flame, or like him by some magical means. As mentioned before he knew light could be brightened, doused or reflected as learned in his science classes in school. But maybe there was something else, a key that would unlock a door to much more knowledge.

He nodded enthusiastically as Celestia mentioned knowledge, feeling that each word she uttered was a step towards a better understanding of himself and magic. His eyes further brightened upon hearing Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. It was no secret that this school took in the best unicorns to help them unravel the secrets behind their magic. Although not quite old enough yet, Light hoped one day to find his way there.

There was a slight worry that the Princess wouldn't entertain accommodating the colt as doing so would possibly take more time but to his delight the guards shut the doors, leaving him with the Princess. Then the thick curtains were drawn, leaving very little if any light in the room, and only Celestia's voice to know where he still was.

"Alright, here it goes," he said again shaking off the worry of failure before beginning. His horn glowed an amber aura as a little ball ow white light emerged from the tip. The ball then grew to the size of a hoofball as it floated above the colt. The light was about as bright as a lantern in intensity, illuminating the colt enough to see his form and dimly his colors. He then with his magic let the ball fly about the room, passing by the Princess before returning to him. If one were to touch the ball there would be no heat but a tingling sensation of magic.

"That's what i learned I can first do," Light said, "Now I can kind of change its colors slightly."

The ball then changed from a faded red to a faded green and finally a faded blue before going back to the normal white light. It was clear that tis was just something he started to practice as it lacked intensity.

"I have one more thing I tried recently, but it's kind of hard for me. I'll try though."

Bracing himself in the darkness he poured his magic into the ball of light making it grow larger. Then the ball split into three smaller balls, barely bright enough to each illuminate the form of the colt but still noticeable in the darkness. The three smaller ones rotated around the colt before flickering out.

"Um... that's all I can do now Princess with my magic."

He hoped that what he showed was enough to establish where he was now and where he needed to go.

[Pretzelparty]

“Good evening, ma'am,” Java uttered with a rather cheery note. A smile on his muzzle as he continued his greeting, “might I say that you are looking quite lovely toda-"

While Silver walked by with Miss pinchy held aloft in his magic aura he blushed a bit at the compliment. Silver was very weak to compliments about how he took care of himself. It wasn't wrong to be at least a tiny bit proud of something you're good at right? It was still annoying to be constantly confused for a mare on the job and often receive the occasional flirtation from stallions and some mares, at least Javasun only kept his compliment as just an admittance to a well maintained look and not a propisition for a date as many other ponies would occasionally do... in fact there was one such pony in this line who had already done that with Silver when the two of them were colts and strangely enough it resulted in a minor friendship. Seeing as Java was only being polite, Silver gave him a smile and nodded before planting the pink filly on the back of one of his officers.

"Take good care of that filly, Private." Said the silver coated unicorn before pointing in the direction of Ponyville. Soon enough the member of the guard that the young lieutenant chose began to trot off and eventually took Pinchy home. Soon the marish young officer returned to tending the line and not a moment too soon as it seemed that pony from a few moments ago wanted his attention; a murky brown stallion with an overly energetic demeanor. He seemed polite enough though... even after he made the usual mistake about silver that most ponies did.

"Erm... s-sorry about that s-sir, I-if it's any consolation, I will say I am not going to withdraw the statement.”

Making a quick glance backward to make sure the very filly he was worried about embarrassing was far out of earshot the stallion let out a sigh of relief and addressed Javasun,"Thank you, Sir you really don't need to worry about it too much." said the unicorn in his usual contralto-esque voice,"I'm really quite used to it. Might I ask why you wish to speak to the princess?" Asked the stallion in his most polite tone before listening for his response.

"Silverheart please let any curious parties know that the doors will soon be open again, I need to close them in order to help the young colt."

The stallion nodded solemnly to the princess,"It shall be done, Your highness." he said before looking back to Java,"Excuse me a moment, Sir I'll be back hopefully shortly." Making his way over to the rest of the members of the guard, silver's horn once again began to glow and together with the rest of those present closed doors. With the combined magical strength of the guard's present the doors were closed and the princess and her subject were -for the moment- sealed in darkness. Already, Silver could hear some concerned whispers from the crowd. The slender stallion took a deep breath and spoke up to the line inn his most authoritative tone, "No need to worry, everyone. This council requires a special audience for now and the doors will open again shortly. If you have any questions or need anything please direct your questions to me, my fellow officers, or the serving staff respectively."

[moonshineTheleocat]

Java released a sigh of relief after hearing the reassurance of acceptance from the guard. He had almost expected the REA member to suddenly explode for confusing him with a mare. Who could blame the stallion though? He did have enough curves and feminine features, eyelashes to be confused for a mare. But as queried for his question to the princess, he had only managed a chance to open his jaw before being interrupted. Something about closing the door to make the conversation private? The castle was quite large, not to mention everyone was a great deal of distance away. Java was sure that closing the doors probably wouldn’t even be necessary unless the young foal inside were to make a scene.

What ever the matter was, the thought did quickly leave Java as it came. His eyes instead flicking back to the stallion he had been talking to previously. Ceremoniously, he took the time to admire the silver stallion’s appearance while he was turned around and no longer facing him. “Yep… definitely a cute one…” Java thought to himself. And even let his eyes go as far as his flank. Oh how the Java would love to ask this lovely stallion out! In fact, it almost hurts not to! And he could only assume he could never. While he is not all to aware of the rules and regulations for the REA and what not, he did believe that certain matters in life just couldn’t be attended to. Even if that wasn't the case, Java recalled that he had always been an awkward pony when it came to romance. His eyes continued to dance over Silver for a few moments. Once he saw the Guard starting to turn back around, he quickly adjusted his eyes back to the other’s.

Even though Java's gaze was back to where it should be, a sociably acceptable place, it did take a few moments for him to actually realize that Silver had returned. He appeared to have been day dreamin all the while he was away. A few more seconds past, and he finally snapped back to reality. And after doing so, his expression took on a loud note of surprise. His ears flicked back and slackened just a bit. “Erm…? Oh!? Oh yes,” He started off. Java’s eyes rolled off to the side as a hoof was drawn to his chin. The stallion’s smile went flat. His own actions had made him forget his entire reason of being here. He hoped no one saw what exactly he had been looking at, nor his blush underneath his dark brown fur. “Oh yes, yes…” He then dropped his hoof and looked back to Silver. “I am here to ask for information I generally don’t have initial access to. I’ve been working on a long term goal for the past several years… but unfortunately I reached a hiatus… as I don’t have the conceptual knowledge to get any further.”

The curious thought of the stallion came back once more. His head tilted a bit after an old engineering saying resurfaced back to his memory in a familiar voice. "How would you know if you don't try." The pony bit his tongue, and decided to press on, regardless of what he originally thought of the REA policies. "If you are used to..." the stallion began a small embarrassed blush now showing up as he tried to dance around a question and lead to where he was heading too with this. "being mistaken for a mare. How many, stallions have actually asked you out - erm thinking you were a mare?"

[starswirlthebearded]

Princess Celestia looked upon the colt with great interest. It was clear that his magic was rooted in the control of the light he created. Many unicorns could make their horns glow and create a light from it, that was easy, but even among those that were exceptional at it and were able to light up entire rooms or use it to direct or create light based illusions were unable to create ball light that could move about and even change color. As the colt finished his demonstration the Princess smiled and nodded as her horn glowed and opened the curtains to allow the light back into the room. And motioned to the guards to reopen the doors.

"It seems as though Princess Twilight's instructions to practice have served you well," Celestia started it was rare to see such talent from someone so young. Many older colts and fillies in her school had less of a grasp on their own magic. Clearly this colt would be a fine addition to the school when he was able. "Your magic, though still undeveloped and weak, is rather advanced for one so young." Celestia pondered on how to explain how light was created through magic, because it was inherently different from how light was created through natural means, not that the result was different. "All light is energy..." The princess began to explain trying to keep it simple. "The light of the sun is the sun's energy reaching us. Your light is your energy that comes from within. Most ponies cannot control their own energy outside their bodies well, unless it is connected to something physical. This is what makes light magic so elusive to many." The princess explained to the colt trying to keep everything simple.

She then pondered how to get the colt on the right path. "As for how to improve, I'd start with the very basics, your magic is connected to you, and you should be able to feel it, that is the only way for you to control it. The stronger you can feel it outside your body the easier it will be to control." The princess did her best to give the colt advice that was not simply "practice" and something more directing. "As for the luminescence of your light, that will likely come with age and experience. If you wish to learn more about light and light magic, I'm sure Twilight's library has many books on the subject. Reading is a great resource to learning, just ask Princess Twilight herself." Celestia said with a laugh, knowing how often Twilight would learn purely by the book, in fact she was surprised that Twilight would suggest practice over reading. "And of course, when you are ready, the doors to my school are always open to talented young unicorns." The princess said with a warm tone. The princess went a step further and wrote a letter addressed to her school's guidance councilor Miss Ingrid Marie, explaining the colt's situation, if he should ever want additional help or even to take the entrance exam to Celestia's School. "Please take this letter. It is addressed to Miss Ingrid Marie, a fantastic councilor at my school. If you ever want extra help or a chance to enter my school, please, feel free to deliver it to her, and I'm sure she'll be happy to help you further."

Even if the princess was able to help this colt a little bit it would be worth the time. Hopefully she'll even see him in her school eventually.

Current line:

1. Guiding Light

2. Java

3. Merlot

4. Bright Stone

[Lux]

The colt shielded his eyes as suddenly the room was once again filled with light. He wondered how his demonstration of his talent impacted upon the Princess, although he could imagine that she of all ponies had seen her share of magical abilities, including light magic. But to his happiness when his eyes adjusted to the light he could see a pleased smile on the Alicorn's face.

"Your magic, though still undeveloped and weak, is rather advanced for one so young."

Light was taken aback at this comment. While he knew that his talent was rare, he often thought that his magic was average or even below average of others, having little to go by in terms of instruction or study materials. It was then that the Princess explained about light being energy and how light was elusive since it couldn't be attached to an object like telekinesis could. To his delight the Princess went beyond just practicing but what to practice, namely how to feel energy outside of him, a great asset for light magic. This was a goal he could easily do.

The biggest surprise was Celestia offering the school she founded to the colt. Sure it wasn't an immediate free pass for the colt to join, but it was the next best thing. He watched as Celestia crafted a letter, catching it with his magic as it was delivered to him and holding like it was made of glass.

"oh thank you Princess Celestia! I'll be sure to mail this soon and I'll definitely remember everything you said about studying and feeling the energy. Do you know of any certain books I should read that can help me about light?"

[starswirlthebearded]

The colt asked Celestia if there were any specific books that he should read, and she pondered this carefully. The one before her was still a colt and much of the best literature on the subject was rather advanced. Celestia did recall one book that was aimed at children... It was a book by a school teacher, designed to get young colts and fillies interested in the science side of magic. It was an entire series made by a writer under the pseudonym "Dr. Cosmos." She recalled a book specifically on lights and waves.

Celestia of course nodded and smiled "Of course Guiding Light. I would start with a book by an author named Dr Cosmos whom writes with the intent to help young fillies and colts such as yourself. I believe there is a book called "The Magic of Light and Waves" that would be perfect for what you are looking for." Celeistia instructed the colt which book to look for to start with. "Naturally, there are also books by Star Swirl the Bearded and Clover the Clever on their research on light magic, though you may need Princess Twilight to help you with that, or a teacher from my school or a professor of Aetherology, as they are rather advanced. There was also extensive research done by Dr Light Hooke on it." Celestia smiled. She wasn't sure what good directing the colt in those directions would do, but surely if he was passionate he would do what Twilight often did when she came to something she couldn't understand in her research and seek help. Though Twilight had the advantage of having Celetia herself as a mentor, but now Twilight could help be a mentor to this young colt, or so she figured.

With that done Celestia smiled with a great warmth as she would often give her students "Now if you do not have any other questions, I do believe it is time for the next pony. I thank you for coming Guiding Light. I hope to see you again soon at my school." Celestia said with an encouraging smile and wink. She wasn't sure if he would pass the entrance exam, but from what she saw he had a very good chance.

[Lux]

While Guiding Light was prepared for this meeting, plotting what to say and counting the days until he went to Canterlot with his parents, he left out the very important piece of bring paper and a pencil to this meeting! The colt wasn't a very forgetful one, but he hoped that his memory was enough to recall every detail in time when it counted like finding the books titles that Celestia told him. He heard of the Dr. Cosmos series as Light liked science, but he didn't recall ever reading the one on light. The others he vaguely heard of their names but had yet to study them. Perhaps these would be the next step in his study.

"Oh I'll definitely remember them. Thanks for helping me get started!"

The time had come that the two would part company. Light wished he could stay longer to learn as much as he could, but at the moment all his questions were solved. Although he had yet to completely figure out what he could do with his magic he had some good ideas and a way to start. Most importantly he had a possible future waiting for him in Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. He may not be able to jump right to that goal but in time this was something he had faith he would do. Most importantly Princess Celestia seemed to see something in his talent enough to convince him that he could be great one day.

"Oh thank you Princess Celestia! I won't forget this meeting. And one day you'll see me in your school. This I promise!"

[Pretzelparty]

Lieutenant Silverheart, Royal Guard

“Oh yes, yes… I am here to ask for information I generally don’t have initial access to. I’ve been working on a long term goal for the past several years… but unfortunately I reached a hiatus… as I don’t have the conceptual knowledge to get any further.”

"If you are used to... being mistaken for a mare. How many, stallions have actually asked you out - erm thinking you were a mare?"

The stallion nodded as he heard Java speak about his request. If anything it was an interesting question, Silver himself was actually rather curious as to what the princess' answer would be. As far as he knew only select teachers and graduates from the school for talented unicorns were allowed access to certain areas of the archives... if that was indeed what the stallion was referring to. Being a graduate as well as a member of the royal guard who was skilled in a unique school of magic he did have some access to the archives and also was occasionally called on to guard them from those who might break in.

Javasun's next question was a bit surprising, He wasn't sure why the brown engineer saw fit to bring the topic of the conversation back to silver's appearance but the young lieutenant figured it was best too remain civil. "Well..." began the silver maned unicorn," A lot. Ever since I was a colt to be honest. When I was enrolled in the school for talented Unicorns I had a few male admirers who eventually learned that I was a stallion. Some of them bolted others stuck around ta be flirtatious and distract me from my studies... " the stallion took note as the other guard began to open the doors once more, "Anyway Sir, Might I ask your name so I may introduce you to the princess?"

"Oh thank you Princess Celestia! I won't forget this meeting. And one day you'll see me in your school. This I promise!"

Soon Guiding light's voice could be heard from inside as the doors of the throne room closed and the little yellow colt walked out,"Welcome back, Guiding light. I trust your visit with the princess was enlightening?... erm no pun intended." said the guard with a slight embarassed chuckle.

Turning back to Java sun he cheerfully said to the stallion who now seemed to be slightly nervous and blushing," Well, Sir. I believe it's your turn to pose your question." Levitating the small cord that prevented the line from moving forward unnecessarily to let the coffee scented pony step forward, Silver calmly escorted the stallion into the throne room. "Seems I was unable to get your name in time to introduce you..." said the stallion as the two ponies approached the sun princess on her throne, "I shall instead wish you luck, sir. I must return to the line. Enjoy your talks with her highness. " with that Silverheart left Java to the Princess and calmly returned back to the line.

[moonshineTheleocat]

Java had only just barely managed to open his jaws before finding himself now suddenly interrupted as the doors swung open, and out came the child who went in. He seemed quite excited now, so it was possibly easily assume he got the help he needed.

But for his own, perhaps he probably won't find any aid here. Heck, the pony even humored the thought of himself being locked up for insanity now after learning that not even most unicorns were actually granted access to such a library. Oh how he could see it now, himself being drug across the ground screaming at the top of his lounges pleading that he was perfectly sane and meant no ill will.

When he looked back to Silverheart, he found himself almost immediately being shoved on in. He was a bit disappointed now, but the stallion didn't show it. Heck, he didn't even know his name yet! And the same for Java. Well, the least he knew was that the Guard might have been a scholar at some point, and possibly easily swayed. “Erm... thank you,” quiped in a curious tone, looking back to the guard that just left

“Whelp...” Java thought to himself as he now started to step forward, “maybe I could ask for a nice fat helping of self confidence later.”

Speaking of the devil. He had never actually met Celestia in person. Though he's seen her odd ball, yet attractive sister plenty of times at night. And after the many times he has been invited to the Galloping Galla, what was supposed to be the event nearly ever pony fought for to go... the pony never bothered to attend. He couldn't find any source of refuge of being in a wide open foyer filled with ponies speaking about buisness or random giblets of gossip.

So what was it they said about Celestia? She was beautiful? She was tall? Now completely curious, Java slowly turned his head back around to face the princess. Blinking when his eyes saw legs on the throne, and slowly lifted his head up till he met her eyes.

“HOLY SWEET CEL--.... no wait... HOLY SWEET HER, She's taller than a friggen skyscraper,” Java's mind screamed, echoing as a distant thought.

“Erm, hello your majesty,” he began after swallowing, “I am JavaSun. An... engineer. Earth... pony engineer. Recently I have entered a stage in my work where I decided to try a new paradigm. Combining Magic and Machines to see what wonders it could produce. However... I ran into a small... no large hiatus. You see... being an earth pony, magic isn't necessarily in my grasp, so I hadn't had the ability to study it.”

He stopped there, figuring that she could probably pick up on the rest. Magic. Earth Pony. It'd probably be obvious that his lack of knowledge in the field would bring up some form of conclusion.

[Lux]

Welcome back, Guiding light. I trust your visit with the princess was enlightening?... erm no pun intended.

"Oh yes, I had a wonderful time!" he said beaming with pride, "I learned so much from the Princess, and also from you. So thank you too. I can't wait to tell my parents about what happened. Maybe one day I'll return to say hi to you again."

Seeing the unicorn was busy escorting another pony to the throne room, Guiding took one look back at where he was before pinching himself just to be sure this wasn't a dream. The brief pain confirming his suspicions, the colt gleefully trotted down the long entry hallway and back outside to where his parents stood waiting for him.

"Mom, dad! You'll never guess the fun I had! It was awesome!"

Exit Guiding Light. Thanks for the fun!

[starswirlthebearded]

((OOC: Apologies for the delay and short post.))

While the young colt made his leave, it appears that Silverheart had become a bit zealous with the introductions and moving the line along. Without much fanfare or introduction he nearly shoved the next pony into the throne room. As he approached he seemed flustered by how it happened and not too pleased. As he introduced himself he stated himself as an engineer named JavaSun. "It is a pleasure to meet you Mister JavaSun." Celestia greeted the engineer, and listened to his request, though was unsure of what he was after. After all she knew many earth ponies who studied magic, but practicing was something different all together.

"I have seen many unicorn engineers use magic to aid in their creations. Much of Canterlot was built with the help of magic, my castle included. It is not unusual for non-unicorns to become interested in magic either especially when it comes to their jobs..." Celestia began, still unsure of what his goal was. "Still There are many books in the Canterlot library on the subject of magic and engineering. The library is open access and the librarian should be able to assist you" Celestia offered a possible solution... She somehow felt that is not what the stallion was after though. Still there wasn't much she could do...

[moonshineTheleocat]

Java frowned. She did know where he was coming from, but that wasn't exactly the answer he was looking for. He also wish he could tell what she was thinking right now.

“Yes, I am well aware. But sadly the information I found have all been uninsightful,” Java started with an excited punch at the start. He had actually took the time to check on such cases. But very rarely had he found any information on how such feats were done. Only practicums and basic understandings were all he could find. “I have taken the time to read as much as I could. And all that is left to do is try to research and experiment. But I only know of it being possible if you could do the magic yourself.”

Java then paused for a moment, his expression showing that his mind was clearly wondering off. He imagined himself looking into a mirror with a horn on his head. He'd try to cast some fantastic spell, only to wind up having himself blown through a brick wall. When the thought ended, he chuckled lightly and added as a joke, “If that being the only case. Then I suppose it wouldn't be to bizzare of a request to plant a horn on my head.”

He cleared his throat, nervously... realizing that she might not have found it funny. Though it would be quite interesting if it was taken very literally. “I was wondering if you know any location I can find detailed research? From any pony?”

[starswirlthebearded]

Celestia really wasn't expecting so many ponies to come to her with questions about magic. She was not the only knowledgeable pony about magic. In fact her former student Twilight Sparkle and many of the professors and teachers she knew would likely be able to give her a run for her bits on the matter. True she was good friends with Star Swirl the Bearded in her younger days, and often studied magic with him, and read just about every book on the matter, but still, there were much more easily accessible resources. She would not turn anypony away from their question or quest for knowledge, but it was still curious.

This earth stallion was particularly curious to her. Usually an earth pony would simply hire a unicorn to help with such tasks. There are many specialists in the field who would love to try new things, especially from one who never had magic. Great ideas can come from the most unlikely of places after all, and I think many of the unicorns who did such things knew this.

As he talked he made a joke about being transformed into a unicorn. Celestia naturally laughed at this. She was sure some ponies believed she was all powerful and capable of such magic, but she knew that there were limits to even her abilities. She chuckled at Java's joke all the same. "If such acts were possible I'm sure I'd have a line out my door of ponies who would wish to walk a mile in another pony's shoes Java." She playfully responded. "But still, I do understand your frustration."

The stallion continued to a more... reasonable request, where to look. "If you have already read materials, perhaps the best course of action would be to visit a university's aetherology department or even look into unicorn architects whom are active in the field. Most academics in my experience would revel at the chance for an outside perspective on possibilities. Perhaps you hold the key to doing something completely new that has never been tried before." Celestia offered some practical wisdom "And remember, you don't have to be the one doing the experimentation, many great wizards and scientists have allowed others to act under their direction because either they were unable to perform what they wanted or felt they wanted to see the results from afar as an observer. Even as an earth pony, your greatest tool is your mind and imagination, not your abilities to perform magic or not. With the right resources almost anything is possible."

[moonshineTheleocat]

Java rarely ever considered himself to be the one pony who had the outside perspective that could unlock more possibility. He found the odds to be absolutley slim. Sure, he might probably be the closest than any other pony, but to think that he might actually be onto something amazing? To add onto the weight, even Celestia herself offered that. Celestia, whom had been known for being honest... if not for sweetening up the truth. It might be something that Java should actually look further into then.

Java then smiled as Celestia offered up her wisdom. “I am aware I don't have to be the one doing the experimentation,” Java began. Now a little more up beat with the advice he was given. “But to see and observe is much different than to do and act. There are details easily missed. And details easily forgotten! Without such details, you are just missing critical pieces of a puzzle...”

He trailed off in thought at his saying. It wasn't to deep, but it was a sort of wisdom that the pony wasn't quite aware existed in his own head. He generally... was a bit impractical at times.

The pony quickly pulled himself back into reality. “Erm... right. Do you might know any Unicorn Architects?”

[starswirlthebearded]

Celestia looked upon the young architect, who was full of zeal and ambition to realize his dreams. His words were not unheard of to Celestia, even among the unicorns she taught she heard such things. Unicorns were not all powerful mages and wizards, most had a finite amount of magic related to their gift, and as such, many young fillies and colts often felt envy to those whom they thought had a cooler special talent than themselves. Still Celestia felt that Java was missing a key point in her words.

"Details are only easily missed if they are allowed to be so. And sometimes a missed detail opens up the possibility for a new piece to present itself. Not everything, especially magic, is as black and white as some ponies would make it." Celestia began to interject into the earth pony's concerns. "There are many wonderful things that one can accomplish with the means and imagination."

The pony then asked about specific unicorns. Celestia of course had taught many unicorn architects, and had known many in the past. Some had even aided in the creation of Canterlot Castle... However to ask her for specific names on the spot was rather difficult. Instead she elected to direct the young pony to the architecture department of Canterlot University, whose chair was in fact a unicorn. Though he was not as active as he was in his youth, would probably be the best source to go to. "I have known many, but I am not sure I am the best to ask about who would best be able to aid in your endeavors. However I do believe that the head chair of the Canterlot University Architecture department is in fact a retired unicorn architect whom probably has more knowledge of the current active unicorn architects in the field. He would probably be the best pony to ask. I am sorry I cannot direct you any further than that."

[moonshineTheleocat]

The pony contemplated everything he was told. It would be worth to revisit the grounds of the University. Especially if it meant that the pony could meet and possibly gain new colleges in the process. However, them willing to share secrets, or information to an earth pony was well beyond what Java would typically expect. But then again, some true scholars are more than happy to share research, if it meant to expand another's. So this was quite the gamble indeed.

"Ah, thank you Princess Celestia! I think I have what I need now."

[starswirlthebearded]

((apologies for the long wait))

Princess smiled warmly at the architect, seemingly pleased with the results of their meeting. "I am glad you have found what you were looking for in our meeting. I do hope I see some of your magical architectural creations sometime in the future. I am sure they will be wonderful." Celestia truly wasn't sure if the information she gave the pony was of any worth, but it did seem to help the pony find some direction.

The princess turned to her guard. "Lieutenant, you may show out Javasun, and show in the next guest. Thank you."

[Pretzelparty]

As the little colt left with his parent's the lieutenant lifted his hoof and gave him a a wave goodbye before returning to the throne room. He couldn't help but feel the need to stifle a chuckle as he saw the look of immediate shock on Java's face when he first saw the princess. He couldn't blame him really, when he was a colt and first saw the princess his own jaw nearly hit the floor. While the princess listened to and gave her thoughts on Java's problem, the good leiutenant calmy strolled over and stood beside the princess's throne, ironically providing a bit of a size comparison for Java since Silver was a bit shorter than the average mare would be.

The princess turned to her guard. "Lieutenant, you may show out Javasun, and show in the next guest. Thank you."

The grey coated guard gave the Princess a salute,"Yes, Your highness." The Stallion descended from the princess's side and smiled at the coffee scented pony before him,"I hope the Princess was most helpful, Mister Sun. Now if you could please follow me..." the stallion walked back towards the door where the rest of the line was waiting, with Java hopefully in tow. Before they got to the door the stallion carefully whispered to him,"I'm sorry about being so rough earlier... It's just it's expected I keep the line moving. Please tell me if I can make it up to you in some way... I can't have my mistakes reflect badly on the rest of the Royal guard." As the armor clad stallion waited for Java's response he took a moment to excuse himself to Address the line,"One moment please, Mister sun."

Taking a deep breath the stallion spoke up loud enough so the line could hear him, his volume was nowhere near shouting levels but he was definitely making sure the ponies present could hear him. "The princess is ready for her next visitor... Doctor Merlot, please come forward."

[moonshineTheleocat]

Java had only managed to settle down and get accommodated to the size of the larger pony. That was till the familiar guard, Silver, came by and stood next to Princess Celestia. The pony's heart skipped a beat as his eyes quickly danced between the smaller pony, and the mare who completely dominated the vertical challenge. In fact, the pony even took this small moment to make a quick estimate of Celestia's size.

Java's left eye twitched in shock when the result came to in mere seconds. The mare was practically a little taller than eight feet... including her horn. Still a terrifying thought, however. But then he began to think a little bit further. His eyes slowly adjusting to focus on the Soldier. He hasn't once watch the stallion leave the Throne Room's door. Till now that is. So why on earth did he...

The stallion's eyes then widened for a moment, his ears falling back. “Oh that sneaky guard...” java thought to himself now. If he could glance at the feminine guard from the side, he'd be sure he could catch him grinning from ear to ear. Well... maybe a smirk.

But once it came time to leave, his mind was blank. He was staring off into space, but was fully aware of the movement near him. He had only snapped out of it, when he felt footsteps right beside him. His body lerched, and his gaze snapped to the guard. “Oh! Yes. Thank you, majesty. Thank you for your time.”

The stallion then slowly turned around and followed the guard out. His mind still trying to grasp around the fact of how a pony could be so... well tall.

But then, Silver mentioned something about being rough. Java pursed his lips together after stopping next to the stallion, and did his best to think back. He couldn't remember the other stallion being so rough. Maybe he was secretly being snide?

The pony gave a light shrug, and looked back into the stallion's eyes. He meant this as a joke. But with his tone always having a happy go lucky nature to it, such small things were a bit hard to pick up sometimes. “Well, I don't recall a moment you were rough. But if you feel you really must, a date would be nice.”

[Bellosh]

Finally, Dr. Merlot’s time for his audience with Princess Celestia was at hand. Prompted by Lt. Silverheart, the gentlecolt briskly cantered over to the Golden Throne, maintaining an aloof composure. Unlike all those plebeians who melted at the sight of an alicorn, Merlot behaved as if dealing with royalty came naturally to him.

First, some sweet talk from the suave stallion. “My my, words truly cannot describe the enormity of your magnificence, my princess,” Merlot curtsied by taking off his hat; “I am Doctor Merlot, Equestria-renowned archaeologist, and it was my sincere desire to meet you under better circumstances. Sadly, there are dire matters I’m grappling with which require your intervention, should you hear me out.” The unicorn briefly paused to let his introductory words sink in with Celestia.

“You see, being an archaeologist, I spend much of my valuable time at excavation sites, supervising the recovery of lost antiquities. Yet for the past year now, incidents of attempted theft are steadily climbing up. I’ve been hiring private security in an attempt to curb these deplorable criminal acts, but these... vermin get bolder and bolder. Robbers like the nefarious Pathfinder are even experiencing the occasional success now, meaning I have to spend even more of my precious time and money to recover such precious artifacts.

Despite these woes, the Royal Equestrian Army has thus far refused my requests for royal security. Every commander I’ve talked to has ignorantly brushed off my concerns. I therefore beg that you compel them to action. It would be such a tragedy to our history if a trespassing event caused the destruction of an entire archaeological site.” All the while, Merlot’s self-righteous voice and head-held-high posture gave the impression of a unicorn overly confident in the belief that Celestia would side with him.