Drops of Fire

Chapter 2- Seven Drops of Fire

Skywatcher gaped in awe as the massive castle of Canterlot cast long shadows all around her. The rest of her friends and family waited patiently to be escorted inside the stone and glass walls of the royal castle. Phoenix Feather and Thunder Paw flanked her, while Storm, Graphite Paint and Cloud Chaser hung closer behind, along with Spectrum Light and Rim Shot hung behind. Skywatcher's heart shriveled up in dread.

"I don't know what to think of this," Phoenix suddenly said, breaking the long silence. "I mean, I'm used to going into the castle, since my family's royalty in all, but....." she paused and blinked. "This is the first time we've all been specifically requested to be seen by the Princess."

Thunder Paw lifted a grey hoof. "Yeah....What if we're in trouble for something?"

Storm flew gracefully up into the sky and did a playful flip, her wings outstretched and sleek. "Oh I doubt it Thunder," she chuckled, landing on the ground with a thump. "Your waaaay  too anxious."

Thunder Paw's blue eyes flashed ingnatly. "I think your to relaxed, Storm," she retorted thickly. "Besides, what would you do of you got into trouble by the Princess?" She sassily raised an eyebrow.

Storm shrugged. "Shake it off," she replied coolly. "I'm independent. And to be honest with you Thunder Paw, I can handle anything that comes my way. Just watch me."

Thunder just scoffed at her friend's over confidence, annoyed. Skywatcher secretly admired Storm's confidence, though she would never admit it out loud.

Her fears increased to an overwhelming state however as the huge doors suddenly opened and two guards trotted out, the blue plumes on their heads swaying in the wind. The ponies stared blankly before the two stallions nodded and beckoned them inside with a motion of their hooves. Skywatcher glanced at Phoenix before hesitantly going up the stairs and into the bright castle.

Her breath caught in her throat as the guards led the group into room after room. Skywatcher immediately recognized the pathway to the throne room. Amethyst Moon trotted up and flanked her daughter protectively, her dark blue eyes alert and small for signs of danger. Normally, Skywatcher would have felt embarrassed by her mother's over protective attitude, but fear made her limbs shake. Today she felt grateful for Amethyst's silent support.

All the ponies walked in silence. Only the quiet clank of hooves made any sound. Spectrum's jaw hung open as they entered the stunning room full of Stained Glass windows, each window telling an event of Equestria's past. Skywatcher's eyes dazzled as she walked past the window that had Princess Twilight on it, the translucent purples and pinks creating a light show on the tiled floor.

I can only imagine what it must be like to live here! she thought, as they past another one with Cadence and Shining Armor on it. This is absolutely beautiful!

Finally the guards opened the extensive doors that made way to the throne room. The two guards stepped aside as Skywatcher and her group entered within the divine walls. She quickly glanced at the massive thrones before she noticed all four Princesses standing patiently in front of them.

A needle of Panic went straight through Skywatcher's insides. All four of the Princesses were here! She had only expected to see Celestia! Her legs suddenly felt weak and shaky.

Princess Celestia stepped forward with a nod of welcome, the gold crown atop her head catching the light. "Welcome, my subjects," she smiled at them. "I'm so happy you all could make it."

Amethyst stepped forward and bowed low to the floor in respect. Skywatcher suddenly realized with a jolt that she had forgotten to perform the formal bow herself. She crouched slowly with her head to the cold floor along with the rest of the group, her heart pounding loudly in her rib cage.