Third verse, same as the first!
Disclaimer: Keep in mind, I only actually own Shadow Blaze. Nothing else is mine.
Chapter 3
Twilight had managed to focus for all of ten seconds before she was caught in a vortex that came from nowhere. Her and the Elements.
"What the..." She stopped and drew back a bit. "Nightmare Moon..." She whispered.
"So, the only Pony in Ponyville that recognized me..." Twilight started to make the motions to charge. Me? I saw the signs of a bluff. I have to say, she fakes emotions pretty well.
Yes, I'm still in the corner under a cloaking spell. 'Let's see how you do, Twilight Sparkle. Show me you're worth my time.' Those were my thoughts.
Twilight charged, Nightmare Moon returned the charge, Twilight teleported. This is pretty much just a canon level fight. Wait. 'Is that a...' Flashbang spell. Didn't think she knew something like that. Nightmare Moon was slightly blinded. 'Nice shot, Twily. Your brother was right.'
She let off a Sparks spell, which was a low level Lightning spell. And Nightmare is laughing. "Fool! Your spark didn't work!"
Then came the others. Nightmare turned her head and fired off a spell. Guess who was the first to come into the room, and coincidentally, get hit?
"FLUTTERSHY!" That was Rainbow Dash.
"Oh dear..." There's Rarity.
*CRASH* That was Nightmare Moon, going through the four foot thick Granite Wall. Which was 60 feet away from the point of Impact.
My wings were straight, my face openly showing anger. My right foreleg outstretched, as if I had just punched the air. "Who..." Twilight started, before I sped off after Nightmare Moon.
The Mane Six just stared, even Fluttershy, who was oddly unhurt. "I'm alright, girls. I've taken worse hits before." Fluttershy spoke.
"Fluttershy, Shadow Blaze just flew off the handle." Rainbow Dash explained, somewhat scared.
"He just showed up, out of nowhere!" Pinkie exclaimed. "And POW! I didn't even see it coming!"
"Ah don't think any of us saw it coming, Pinkie." Applejack commented. "But still..."
"I didn't think he was that strong." Rainbow Dash continued.
"He may be a Pegasus but he's the only pony ah know that can tap an Apple Tree and get all of the apples to fall. Ah still have no idea how he does it." Applejack returned. "Um, Twilight..."
"Why didn't I see it?" Twilight whispered. "Girls, come here for a moment." She called out.
"Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, I think I just figured everything out. Especially how the Elements work."
"Well, the spark apparently did not work. And they're broken." Rarity pointed out. "Unless I am missing something, that means the original plan is pointless."
"Maybe, but I don't think that's the case." Twilight looked at Applejack. "Applejack, you assured me that I would be fine. I could literally feel your Honesty shine through your words. Nightmare Moon destroyed the Physical Representation of the Elements, but they didn't hold the power of them. Not all of it, anyway. I think you have the Element of Honesty in your Spirit." Several shards glowed Green and began circling around Applejack. "I think that's a sign that I'm right."
"If Applejack is Honesty, then what are the rest of us?" Fluttershy asked.
"Fluttershy, when you dealt with the Manticore, you showed it a Kindness that most wouldn't bother to. If I'm right, then your Heart has a connection to the Element of Kindness." Twilight explained, causing the Lavender shards to circle around her. Fluttershy blushed in response.
"Rainbow Dash, even when you were faced with joining the Shadowbolts at the cost of leaving us behind, you stuck with your friends. Going along with everything else, and your overall attitude when we first met, I'd bet you're the Element of Loyalty." Red shards floated and circled around her. Rainbow Dash looked a little bashful.
"Rarity, when you cut off your tail to help the serpent, none of us actually saw the point, just wanting to get moving. You, however, wanted to help out, sacrificing something you pride yourself in, if I read your personality right." Several Pale blue gems started circling around Rarity. "You'd be the Element of Generosity."
"Well, it is something that Blaze has complimented me on..." She giggled a bit.
"Pinkie Pie, even in the face of fear, you stayed strong, and was able to laugh. You showed us all that a laugh can be more powerful than an Alicorn's Spell. I think that, more than anything, would make you qualify as the Element of Laughter."
CRASH Nightmare Moon just crashed into the floor, from the ceiling. She stumbled back up, as I flew in through the same hole. "You know, usually, I'm not into hurting Ponies. But right now, I'm more than willing to make an exception." was my only statement, then I blinked. "Of course, if what I did to you these past three minutes is any indication, I think there's only one more thing to say."
The Mane Six saw this, and the shards became necklaces as the six of them harmonized with each other, a sixth stone appearing in the air, heading towards Twilight's head, and turning into a tiara. "And that would be?" Nightmare Moon snarled.
"Taste the Rainbow Motherfucker." I told her, as the Rainbow formed and surrounded her, surprising her.
"What? No. NO! NOO!" As the rainbow circled around her from her hooves, four stray beams came directly for me. Coming directly out of a fight, I dodged them easily. Then they turned, and hit me in my wings. 'SHIT!' This was SO not good! I don't deserve the Elements, any of them!
They made a circlet, which practically gobsmacked me. However, unlike the girls, whose new jewelry resembled their Cutie Marks, mine wasn't anywhere close to mine. No, while my Cutie Mark showed that I fought the Mental Battles that few didn't bother to, this one had a Silver twenty sided die, unless I miss my guess. And honestly? I have NO idea what it means, or how it relates to me.
I'll think on it later. Right now, I had more important things to deal with. I walked up to where Nightmare Moon was hit with the Elements, while the girls decided to celebrate. There, amidst a bit of rubble, and uninjured, was Princess Luna. "Are you okay?" I asked softly.
Her eyes fluttered open, groaning. "You... What happened?" The mare asked, drawing the attention of the other six. "Who is that?" Twilight asked, confused. "And what happened?"
"Pinkie, remember that party I asked for a few months ago, but never had a set date for?" I asked.
"Yup! I remember, and everything is ready to be set up in five minutes!" She replied, as the sun began to rise.
"Then I want it ready in three." I told her with a grin.
"Wait, you went to ask her for a party?"
"Not for me." I countered. I bowed to Princess Luna's weakened form, as she struggled to get up. "Princess Luna, I am honored to finally meet you. Myself and many astronomers have been eagerly awaiting your return for over a year now. I am not entirely sure of the rest of the populace, but I can say with utmost honesty, that there are those who await your return with happiness. The number I can confirm is over 80."
"That still hurt, you know?" Luna replied, finally on her hooves. "Did you have to hit her so hard? I feel every blow you landed." She started to take a step, but stumbled. I caught her with my shoulder.
"Careful, you're still weakened by the Elements and my excessive pounding." I told her. "Besides, I did warn her not to hit Fluttershy. Fluttershy was hit the moment she entered the room. I blame my temper, and the Warrior's Instinct inside of me."
Just then, the sun broke the horizon and Celestia walked in. "It has been a long time since I have seen you like this." I narrowed my eyes at her, but stayed silent otherwise. Luna's adrenaline kicked in.
"Oh sister, I am SO sorry!" Luna cried out, practically begging her sister for forgiveness. I sighed, and turned to Pinkie. "Still think it can be ready in... Pinkie, what are you doing?"
Pinkie was talking into a walkie talkie. "Party is set up, Blaze!" She answered. I blinked. That was fast.
"How did you... You know what, on second thought, I don't even want to know." I stated. "Just... is it the right one?"
"Mr. and Mrs. Cake started the moment the sun started to rise. Princess Luna's Welcome Back party is ready." This drew everyone's attention, even Princess Luna's. "It's being held in Ponyville's Town Square. They're just waiting for the Mare of Honor."
"Pinkie?" she preened. "Thanks."
"A Welcome Back party?" Celestia asked, before turning to me. "How did you know she was returning at all?"
"The Legend of Nightmare Moon sounded more like a Prophecy to me than anything else, so I took measures to ensure things went okay." I explained. "Either I was wrong, and things went on as normal, or I was right, and prepared to protect my home. A few months ago, I got the feeling it was right. So, I let the one pony I know who could possibly make her feel welcome work her magic. The Welcome Back Party is the result."
"Thank you..." Luna paused. "I do not believe I received your name, Sir Pegasus."
I bowed to her, shocking the girls, aside from Twilight, who likely doesn't remember me, and Celestia, for who knows why. "Princess Luna, I am Shadow Blaze of the Southern Sky. Honorary Sergeant of the Royal Guard, Everfree Explorer, and the Semi-Official Psychologist for the Equestrian Royal Guard, and all of its sectors." I rose, and looked her in the eyes. "My doors are open for anypony dealing with traumatic memories, which, if my information is correct, you qualify. The Guards are usually the only ones that I deal with, since they're the only ones that deal with the shady side without being forced to. I make sure their heads are on straight after emotionally scarring missions. I have not failed yet."
I turned to Pinkie. "Would you like the honors?"
"You're coming to the Party?" She asked, surprised.
"Pinkie, I asked you to throw it, helped you plan it, and happen to have already placed 800 bits into your personal bank account for the materials used. There is no way in Tartarus that I am missing this party." I grinned, holding out a hoof for Princess Luna. "If I may?" She looked at my hoof in surprise, before she put hers in the crook. The two of us shimmered for a bit. Our images stayed the same for a few seconds before Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Pinkie, whatever he asked you about just now, I think it's time to do it."
"Well then." Pinkie grinned happily. "It's time to-"
The scene shifted to Ponyville Town Square. "PARTY!"
They looked around and saw me and Luna sipping a drink of tea. "This is good." She stated. "What is your secret?"
"I make it with a Heart." I told her, causing her to stare at me. I chuckled. "By that, I mean I pour my emotions into the brew as I make it. The Heart is where the emotions lie. Some just show less than others."
She giggled. "Still, that scene was funny."
"Which one? When Solar Flare gets a wing boner, or Spiraling Light turns her into a frog?" That sent her into another round of giggles. "Both!" was her answer.
"Shadow Blaze, I cannot believe that you managed to get her to read the Second and Fourth Book of the Lost Sister series in only a few seconds." Rarity stated. "You are good, I'll admit, but you are not that good."
"She doesn't have to read them. She knows the majority of what goes into it anyway." I told her, causing everyone around to blink as they look at me in confusion.
"What are you talking about?" Twilight asked. "I mean, the series is new and she's only really been in Equestria for no more than a few hours. How could she know the stories?"
"Has your mentor ever read them?"
"I don't think she has." Twilight looked at Celestia. "Princess, have you read the Lost Sister Series, any of them?"
"No, Twilight. I have not." I grinned. "Although, I don't see why it matters."
"Because I know the author." This caused Rarity and Twilight to gasp in surprise. I grinned. "And I know exactly where he got his inspiration for the books."
Rarity and Twilight were suddenly in my face, staring. "Who is it? Where is he? Is he single? Does Lunar Pride ever actually get a coltfriend?" The questions went on and on.
I closed my eyes, and bonked both on their heads. "First, I'll answer how Luna knows the plotline. In fact, she knows it better than Sky Dancer. The reason being, the entire storyline, minus a few pieces, which Rarity and I question in our weekly chats, are almost directly from Princess Luna's personal diaries from before she left Equestria." This silenced them both, as they stared in shock and awe, before slowly turning to Luna, who was suddenly uncomfortable. A pair of couches zoomed up to them and they fainted directly on to them.
"Wow... That's... I don't even know what to say to that." Rainbow Dash said.
"If Sky Dancer has her Personal Diaries then I believe she will want them back." Celestia said, looking straight at me.
I scoffed. "Celestia, right now, I am being polite with you, but let me make things perfectly clear. I don't like you." Luna and Celestia's eyes widened. "You are at least Partially to blame for Nightmare Moon's appearance. If half the things in her diaries are true, then you confronted her about her problems two years too late." I narrowed my eyes at her. "Luna seems to forgive you, which is the only reason I am being this civil. In her position, I wouldn't, but it's not my call. I am only being this civil with you for her sake."
Then my face shifted from serious to happy, almost in an instant. Pinkie, however, knew it was fake. "Also, there's a few gifts and letters for you, Luna. I went over them with my own scans, and a few unicorn guards scanned them as well, including the current and previous Guard Captains." I handed her a large envelope. "All of the letters are in here. Once I found out about your return, I asked a few ponies some questions, and they answered back in a way that I hoped for. These are the ones that were eagerly awaiting your return."
Luna took the envelope, and started reading the letters. After a few letters, she started to tear up with a smile on her face. "You're not forgotten, Luna. You're not worthless. No one is. This? This is our way of saying, "Welcome Back. We hope to see you in better spirits than when you left." And some of them also compiled this." I pulled out a large tome. She looked at it. "This is everything the Astronomers have seen over the last few centuries from a professional standpoint. They're anxious to see if you can do better, make it even better than it's been in your absence. The letters, are from a Personal Standpoint."
"I... Thank you." Luna got up and hugged me. I stiffened in surprise, but hugged her back lightly.
"No pony wants to be alone. Even the ones that are so used to it, that they prefer it." I told her. "Take it from someone who knows." I ended up whispering. Luna just nodded.
Celestia started to move forward, but Rarity stepped in front of her and shook her head. "Not now." was all she said.
"Rarity..." Rainbow Dash started, causing Rarity to hold up a hoof to silence her. "Princess Luna needs someone who understands. Someone who can help her." She looked straight at me. "Shadow Blaze is the only pony I know of who fits."
"Wait, when did ya wake up?" Applejack asked, confused.
"Blaze was handing over the Tome." Rarity said, looking at Twilight. "Although from the looks of it, Twilight will be out of it for the time being."
"What makes you think he'll understand?" Celestia questioned, an edge barely present, though no one but Rarity and Fluttershy noticed.
"Well, he is a Psychologist. He's helped many Ponies, not just the Guards." Fluttershy stated. "Right, Rarity?"
"True as that is, that is not why I say he can help." Rarity shook her head. "Fluttershy, has he ever told you of his past? Before he came to Ponyville?"
"Nopony knows his past." Applejack said. "He's tight lipped about it."
"He may not have told me, but what he did tell me was more than enough. Many of the problems that Princess Luna is facing emotionally, Blaze has faced in the past. In fact, I'm positive he's still dealing with them." Rarity explained. "I'm pretty sure the reasons are different, but the outcome is the same. There's more." She looked at me, now more or ignoring them. Luna and I were definitely chatting. "On top of that, he is a Psychologist. He can push the right buttons to get her to heal properly. At the same time, though, I'm hoping she can heal him."
"He's the strongest out of all of us." Rainbow Dash countered. "Why would he need help?"
"That may be true in some ways, but he is also the most vulnerable." Rarity explained. "Still, he explained his job to me. The Guards help protect the country. He helps protect the Guards. Who is willing to protect him?" Applejack's eyes widened.
"Isn't our friendship enough?" She asked.
Rarity shook her head. "It may be the romantic in me, but I believe he'll need the light of a Marefriend to keep him sane. We do enough keeping him from losing himself to fighting, but in all honesty, that's all we can do." She looked at Princess Luna. "We can't be the Main pillar for his heart. That place can only be taken by a Romantic Love. One the likes of which he's willing to accept, or that manages to set itself up without him noticing. We're the back up support beams, but he still needs the Central Pillar, so to speak. I think Princess Luna can be that pillar."
"Princess Celestia?" Fluttershy started. "If you don't mind, I think that it's better if Princess Luna stays with him for a few weeks. Even if she doesn't fall for him like that, he'll be able to make sure she can adjust easier."
"And the villagers? Do they know..."
"Whether they do or not, I do believe that finding out the source of the Lost Sister series came from her Diaries will keep them quiet." Rarity answered.
With the Party in full swing, Pinkie brought out Vinyl Scratch, who was now acting as DJ Pon-3. I stood up and held out a hoof. "It's not a good party if the Guest of Honor doesn't dance. Come on, I'll show ya how it's done." My smile was genuine, and she took it, as we danced, before I started to really let loose. Stationary Back flips, Front flips, Barrel Rolls, and more.
Princess Luna started trying to copy me, but pouted when she hit her head on the third trick. I helped her up, a grin on my face. "Come on, these are advanced moves, and you're out of practice. Besides, this is break dancing. You don't copy me, just do your own thing. Let your heart speak the Dance."
Luna nodded, before she took on a more historical step, before jumping into a back flip. She looked surprised, but looked at me. "Now we're getting somewhere." We both grinned, her less than me, and started jumping around, floating a bit, hovering, and doing some small tricks.
Rainbow Dash just looked on sourly. "I still don't know how he does that."
"Does what?" Twilight asked, now awake.
"The way he flies isn't actually natural. I have no idea how he does it. It's like he flies at a glide, but he doesn't even have to manipulate his wings to fly. He won't tell me how he does it, either." Dash explained.
"Huh. Maybe he'll tell someone that actually can't use that knowledge." Twilight mused.
As Luna and I danced, we both smiled, before the music finally cut out, and we decided to take a seat. "That was fun." I told her.
"Yes. It most certainly was." Luna then looked pensive. "Shadow Blaze, you seem to know more about the mind than I do. There was this line that told me where to go. Several of them, actually." This gained my attention. "I followed one of them, and it led me to do what I did."
"It guided you, and you felt each movement before you did it, right?" Luna nodded at my question. I just grinned. "That's a Breakdancing Guide. That's actually kind of rare. You follow one line and it'll lead you to the next move. It's a guide to your own instinct, so to speak. That's not a mental thing, though. It's an Emotional thing. I've only actually heard about them from a friend of mine, who happens to be the disc jockey here." I point at Vinyl. "Vinyl Scratch over there is a good friend of mine, and she has something similar. Hers is based more in Music and Remixing, but it's there. Once she gets into a groove, she just knows what she needs to do. Her Heart guides her from that point on. She's the only reason I know of it at all, by the way."
"Oh." Luna looked disappointed.
"Relax, Luna. This is a party, and it's meant to make you feel welcome." I looked over at Rarity and Applejack who were talking with Celestia and Twilight. "It looks like Applejack and Rarity aren't agreeing with something your sister wants." Luna looked over there as well, somewhat surprised. I caught a few of the words from Applejack's lips. 'Do you really want her to fall into deeper depression?' I blinked. 'What the hell?' "Okay, this is getting strange." Luna looked at me. "Hang on, Luna. I'm going to try something."
Charging my own magic, I look into Applejack's mind. Holy. Shit. "Luna, Applejack and Rarity are trying to convince your sister to let you stay with me for a few weeks to get you back on your feet. Not just physically, but emotionally as well."
Luna was shocked. "Why would they do that?"
"Like I told Nightmare Moon, I'm a Psychologist. I work on a ponies Problems that deal with the mind and, to an extent, the emotions." I narrow my eyes. "Applejack and Rarity believe I can help you in a way no other pony can, even your sister." I sighed. "Rarity..." I shook my head.
"What?" She asked, almost whispered.
"Rarity thinks you can help me with my social problems." Luna blinked. "She's also hoping that you and I will become a couple."
"Dare I ask?" Luna questioned.
"You just did, but I'll answer anyway." I told her. I still can't believe that Rarity thinks that... No matter how true it seems. "Rarity is of the belief that, regardless of how much I help others out, I'm just as broken emotionally as you are, if not more so. She believes it best if you stay here in Ponyville for a few weeks to adjust to Modern Equestria, recover, and for Physical, Mental and Emotional Therapy. She's hoping you and I will become a couple, because she believes that I need a Marefriend to actually make me truly happy, not just content. Her reasoning may be sound, but I'm not actually hoping for that. Not yet, at least."
I sighed. "The reason she think we can help each other like that is because, after she found out what the Lost Sister Series was based on, she accurately guessed who Lunar Pride was, and, also somewhat accurate, that we both understand each other's pain. While most of her ideas on how damaged I am are mostly conjecture, theories, and ideas that aren't entirely complete, nor do they make sense outside of a certain point of view, she's more or less right. But she's also right that it has to happen naturally, and not be forced. She thinks a few weeks of us staying with each other would help things along, if it doesn't. Either way, you and I are going to be close."
"And why are they arguing over it?" Luna asked, confused. I don't blame her.
"Because your sister wants you to recover in Canterlot Castle, around nobles who don't care, while being more or less cut off from the rest of the world. She wants you nearby, so she doesn't lose you again, I'd figure. Rarity and Fluttershy, however, both realized this quickly, and have been trying to shoot it down." I answered, causing Luna to blink. "They both think, and I agree, that putting you in a place where only one pony cares about your well being, and said pony was part of the reason you left in the first place, would make it so you recover much more slowly both Emotionally and Mentally."
"And they think that you can help me recover faster?"
"In those areas, they think so. Do I?" I put a hoof to my chin. That's actually a good question. "I honestly don't know. Mentally, I should be able to, but I couldn't tell you anything at all for Emotionally. That one is a learn as you go thing, in my experience. Still, they think it'll help for you to be away from the High Society for a while. Here in Ponyville, High Society ponies don't come around often, and the ones that do are actually locals. At this point, it's better to start off small, and work your way up. Ponyville helps me out when it comes to Social problems that I deal with in the guard, and they don't even know it yet."
"I... I think I understand." Luna mused. "They're trying to get Tia to let me stay here, in Ponyville, for a while to get used to ponies in this Era, whereas Tia just wants me to stay near her, where she can try to protect me, thus stunting my recovery. Is that what you're saying?" I grinned a bit, and nodded. "I think... I'll side with you and Rarity on this one."
"You'll have to tell her, then. Even with the points Rarity, Fluttershy and Applejack are making, each one being logically and emotionally sound, she's still not budging." I told her. "I'm not going to force you into this, Luna, but I will tell you this. If you stay, you're going to be talking, socializing and working alongside the common folk. This is critical, not just for your emotional state, but so the word can spread that you are, in fact, a good pony." I grimaced. "Not all ponies will be accepting of you for a while. You stick around, and the word will spread that you help ponies of your own free will. That will help prove you're a good pony yourself. Word will spread, and ponies will eventually hear that you're not a bad pony, thus also dispelling most rumors about you. Rumors spread. Here, you can let Ponies spread good rumors that are true and can be proven, and have those good rumors dispel the bad ones that are already circling around."
Luna was silent for a moment. "What do you think is the best option? Ponies have been saying that you know the Mind better than most, if not all. One pony said you know things about the Mind that isn't in the local library. I think you would know better than most."
I hummed for a bit. "Honestly, I'm with Applejack and Fluttershy. Rarity too, though not on the romance point. You'll recover faster here than you will in Canterlot. Also, since I'm more or less an Honorary Royal Guard, stationed in Ponyville, you'll technically have a Guard that regularly trains in the Everfree Forest, currently one of the more dangerous places in Equestria, barring the Frozen North, and the borders around the Griffon Empire and Draconia. At the very least I can make sure you recover completely. You don't have that guarantee in Canterlot. It'll take probably 6 to 8 months up there Mentally, and you might never recover Emotionally. If you do at all, it'll take years. I'm not sure how long it'll take here, but I assume it'll be about 3 months, at most. Of course, that's just a guess. Could be shorter or longer. It depends on how extensive the damage is and how many villagers actually help. It could take anywhere from a few weeks to three months, but that's if I'm right as to how much damage there is. There's also no telling how much of Nightmare Moon is still around, even after the Elements blasted her. If she can still influence you in some way, then it'll probably slow down progress."
Luna was silent, but it was pretty clear that last bit startled her. "Anything else?"
"Yeah, there is. There's also the guilt that I'd have to deal with. Celestia probably wouldn't even realize it's there, but I can see it, clear as day." I sighed. "Honestly, I think, in the long run, it's best if you stay here for a few months, not weeks. If only to make sure you're fully recovered. I have a balcony that you can use to rearrange the night as you need to, and I believe I can set up a communication network with Celestia's room, so she can talk to you, and you her. That way, you don't lose touch with her, and her you. Just... Keep in mind I don't want to talk to her outside of official business." I grimaced. "I can normally remain neutral towards anyone, even if I hate them. Celestia, however, emotionally compromised me on that front. I can't remain entirely calm around her. She puts me on edge, making me wonder if she's actually real, or just covering up something sinister." I hold up a hoof. "She may be hiding something that isn't sinister at all, but my paranoia is having me assume the worst. Her very presence sets it off, and what she did, or didn't do, way back when only focused that paranoia into anger."
"I see." Luna replied. "You think I should stay here in Ponyville for a few months, to recover, and then head up there, to stay?"
"A few months, three at most, with you staying down here. Then a visit every other week, to make sure you're adjusting properly to high society. This is one of the few Long term sessions that I've worked on, and there's a lot of damage that needs to be taken care of. I want to make sure all of our bases are covered, so to speak." I nodded. "As much as I want you to recover properly, I really don't want to be around Princess Celestia more than I have to. It's not good for my health, or anyone around us."
Luna remained silent for a moment. "I'll see if I can't convince her." I nodded with a small smile. "Also, I did not thank you for that infusion of Magic. It has helped me stay awake for the party."
I chuckled. "Yeah, I figured, but remember, it's a temporary measure at best. You'll need to get some sleep soon. The language buffer, though may or may not fade. Not sure at this point."
Luna walked up to the Sunbutt, looked at the Mares around her, who then walked off a bit, and they spoke. Celestia's eyes widened, before narrowing in on me. My response? I raised an eyebrow, and took a swig of cider. Sunbutt's attention is back on Luna, a few more words, about a minute, and finally... Celestia sagged in defeat. I blinked. That was... unusually easy. I didn't expect her to cave this quickly. I figured she'd give another 10 minutes or- Hmm? Was that a flash a fear I just saw?
A hug.
I walked up to Pinkie Pie, and nodded at her. "Pinkie, looks like it's time for this party to wrap up. Luna's getting tired, and I don't think she can use another Magic Infusion." Pinkie looked at me, and nodded. "Take her home, Blaze. Make sure she's okay." Her hair flattened. "If anyone in Ponyville can be trusted to keep her safe, it's you. Besides, Twilight is staying in Ponyville for her own research into Friendship." Pinkamena continued. "She's also hoping to bring a friend down to help her own. Her only actual friend up in Canterlot."
I nodded. "Having Moondancer come down here will probably help them both adjust. There's quite a few Spellbooks in Golden Oaks, so they'll have plenty to research, and find out." Pinkamena blinked, and shifted back to Pinkie. "Pinkie, you and Pinkamena both know I work with the Guards with their Therapy. What you may not know is that they kept an eye on Twilight for some time now. I've known about Moondancer for a while. Moondancer and Spike are the only ones that aren't blood related that Twilight is close to, that isn't Celestia."
"I see." Pinkamena nodded. "I still think that you're a better option than a team of Guards. We both know what happened with those foals, as do you." I nodded. "She is safest with you, and you can help her recover."
I sighed. "Pinkamena, I gave up on Romance years ago. Just, don't force things. Same with Pinkie. Luna needs help, and she needs friends. I'll be sending out some letters myself to several Astrologists. See if they want to visit her. Can you and Pinkie keep an eye out for them?"
"You can count on us, Blaze." Pinkamena replied, before shifting. "And you know it!"
A few hours later, Luna was in a bed at my Cottage, sound asleep. Celestia was sitting in my Living room with Twilight as I came down to see them. "Listen, Celestia. I told you earlier that I don't like you, and that still stands. However, as you're the only relative that Luna has, I'll be sending you some reports on her recovery every now and then."
"I was expecting much less after what you said." Celestia admitted, before turning somber. "However, I do have a request in regards to Luna."
"If it, in any way, hinders her recovery, then I will not follow through with it. I hope you realize that. Her recovery is more important right now than anything else." I looked at the stairs. "Luna's hiding her pain. I can tell. I can also see that she's used to doing that, which isn't good."
A few papers came into view from the Kitchen, surprising both Celestia and Twilight. "This is what I have on her, thanks to her old diaries. I need to find out which parts still hold true, what's new, and what's no longer there." The Papers floated in front of Celestia. I grimaced. "There's a lot of damage to undo, and more than a few problems that could come down the road. One, in particular, is extremely worrying."
Celestia nodded. "You're worried that Nightmare Moon isn't fully gone." Twilight gasped.
"But Princess, how is that possible?" I however, just nodded.
"Look, I have a few ideas as to just how Nightmare Moon formed. Several of those ideas have you in a bad position, as part, if not the entire cause. Very few of them don't have you in a bad spot, even in the best of situations. Most of them can be helped, allowing Luna to be fully rid of her. But some of them..." I trailed off and looked up. "Some of them have Nightmare Moon showing up down the line after she recovers, and that's if she's asleep or sealed off in the first place."
"And you think you can handle things if she does?" Celestia questioned.
"Celestia, I sent her flying 60 feet into a 4 foot thick Granite Wall, and another 80 feet after that in a single hit. All six of them saw it happen, barring perhaps Fluttershy. If need be, I can do so again." I grimaced. "Luna is a fine pony, but she's been broken once before. Because of that, her Self-esteem took a Major hit. The Elements of Harmony are holding her together, but when that effect fades, she'll need be stronger mentally. She'll need confidence that what she's doing is right, and she'll need support from more than one Pony. You won't be enough. She needs to be confident in herself, and in her friends, so when things go south, she'll be fine."
"And that's where you come in, I take it?" Celestia questioned. I nodded in response. "I had heard you say you were a Sergeant in the Guard, but I distinctly remember you declining to join. Do you mind telling me why?"
I shook my head. "You'll have to ask the Guards. Specifically, Captain Shining Armor. He's the one who told me I was an Off the record Sergeant. That's why I said "Honorary Sergeant". I'm not actually a part of the Guard, but the Guards themselves consider me one of them. The rank is Honorary, just to let other Guards know that I am a protector of the area I live in. As such, they tend to follow me when in Ponyville, because it's actually my Jurisdiction in their eyes." I shrugged. "That's how it seems, anyway. I could be wrong."
Celestia continued to read over my reports with a Critical Eye. "Do you think three months will be enough?" Celestia asked me, though she didn't look up.
I shook my head. "I don't think it will be, but honestly, I believe having her come and visit every other week after the initial acclimation would be best, just to be on the safe side. At the very least, she'll need to stop blaming herself for what happened, and move past the guilt. She needs to forgive herself, if she has any hope of recovery. If I can't do that, then there's no hope any other pony can. Until I can find out how to neutralize Nightmare Moon without triggering her presence again, I have to assume that she can come back at any time. And even then, Luna will have to be strong enough to help me override her, I would have the physical fight, while Luna has the Mental fight, if it comes down to it." I sighed. "There's just no way to tell for sure just how deep the damage is, even I can't tell that much at a glance. But it's deep, and there's no question about that. It's been rooting for over a thousand years, Celestia. This won't be easy to cure, but it is possible."
Celestia grimaced. "I hope so" She whispered. "There's another thing I feel I must mention. In case you missed it before, Twilight Sparkle is staying in Ponyville to continue her studies on the Magic of Friendship. Her assistant, Spike, can send letters via Flame Mail, so you can send the reports to me through her. However, I do have a request of you regarding her." Twilight definitely looked confused.
I held up a hoof. "If you're going to ask me to look after her, I'd have done so anyway. For one, I'm the closest thing Ponyville has to a Guard. Several Pegasi have some combat training, though they're nowhere near my level, same with a few Unicorns in the area. I learned a lot of spells that deal with Combat, and modified many of their spells to fit me and my combat style. She'll be safe overall, even though we're right next to the Everfree. Number two: I'm friends with her Older Brother. If I didn't help protect her, do you honestly think I'd be able to look him in the eye?"
Celestia stopped for a moment, and stared at me for a few moments. She nodded. "Fair enough." She paused. "Can you truly help her?" She asked. She's letting down her emotional defenses. Around someone who openly claimed near hatred for her. "Can you make sure she heals?"
Damn. She's desperate. I sighed. "I can't make any promises." I told her. "This isn't going to be easy, as I said. However, I will do everything in my power to make sure she does recover. If it means letting Nightmare Moon take control and let me beat up on her, then so be it."
Twilight just looked between the two of us in a stare down, fear in her posture. "I don't make a promise I can't keep. This is one that I'm not sure if I can, but what I can promise you, is that I'll do my absolute best to make sure that she recovers. Even if it means I have to hand over the reigns to someone else that can finish what I started." I continued.
"Thank you." Celestia whispered.
I sighed. "Man, you're really making it hard to hate you." I rubbed a hoof on my snout. "You know, if you showed this much care for her before what happened to her all those years ago, we wouldn't be in this situation."
Celestia straightened up. Back to the regal Princess. "Shadow Blaze, if you manage this, I will pay ten times your usual fee. As well as asking you for advice, from time to time."
I stopped and stared at her, while Twilight openly gaped. "But Princess-"
"Why would you want somepony that openly hates you to give you advice?" I questioned, a small amount of surprise in my voice.
"Many ponies don't seem to realize it, but, despite being Royalty, I am still a Pony that makes mistakes. Sometimes, I need to be reminded of that." Celestia looked towards the stairs. "What happened with Luna all those years ago? That was one of my biggest ones. The last one died about 600 years ago. He was also the last adviser that I had. I don't want someone that will agree with everything I say, simply because it's me. I need a pony that is willing to tell me, to my face, that I'm wrong. No other pony would even dare, simply because of the power that I hold. Not just Magical Power, but Political as well."
I'm pretty sure my mouth dropped a bit. Twilight, however, was looking a little lightheaded. I glanced at her, and spoke. "Twilight, second floor, third room on the right. There's a bed there. Take a nap."
"But-" "Twilight Sparkle." My voice was calm, yet firm. "Second floor. Third room on the right. Take. A. Nap." She shrunk back a bit, but followed through. After I heard the door close in the silence, I turned to Celestia. "Okay, before you go off on me, she looked like she was about to faint due to shock, possibly because her world view was shattered. Either she'll believe that to be a dream, or she'll come to terms with it by morning."
"Take care of them. Both of them. If something happens to either of them, I will hold you responsible." Celestia was obviously warning me. I didn't speak. I simply nodded my response, a resolute expression on my face. "Please, do let me know how things go with Luna. I don't want to lose her again." Her voice was soft.
I sighed. "I will at least let you know when progress is made, and give you some warning as to when she can head up to Canterlot. If you have to give the Nobles a reason as to why your own sister is staying in Ponyville, tell them her trip back to Equestria was... Unpleasant. She needs to recover from magical exhaustion, which is true. However, and you don't need to tell them this part, her reserves are high enough that it'll take longer than usual. As there are experts on the subject she needs to recover from in Ponyville, you are leaving her in their hands until she is fit to return to duty. Tell the Guards that Blaze is helping out, and they'll know, or at least guess at the truth, but they know I can be trusted. Many of them know my policies, and so won't be all that worried. They may check in every now and then, though, and get a decent look at her, to make their own judgment on the progress."
Celestia nodded. "That has enough truth in it to be believable, while leaving it open enough to interpretation. I trust my guards with my life, if need be. I believe I can trust my Guards opinion on my sister's safety. I will, however, confirm with my Guards to confirm what you have said, however."
I shrugged. "As I said, they know my policies. If they tell you, it's on them. Make sure you ask them for an Honest Opinion. Many of them respect you, but some of them are probably willing to censor what they say for one reason or another. I will not say who will do what, though, nor will I say why. It's up to you to find out, because saying either goes against my policies."
Celestia nodded. "Twilight will likely be our intermediary. She will likely come by with a message for you or Luna every now and then, if I cannot make it here in person." she stood up and walked to the door. "Either way, I thank you for helping my sister in advance."
I looked at her with a neutral face. "Thank me after I've done my job, and only then." A thought crosses my mind. "How long until the next Grand Galloping Gala?"
She blinked. "About four and a half months, give or take. The date isn't set yet. The invitations are sent when the date is set. Often times a month in advance. Why do you ask?" She looked around outside. "And what happened to my guards?"
"I'll answer the second one first." I answered. "Odds are, they're having a bit of relaxing time, since I am most likely more powerful, and more devious than all of them combined, and I know, full well, how to use it. That being said, regardless of my dislike of you, they know I won't let anything to happen to you on my property. Very few of your Guards have seen me in action, and those that have... well, let's just say there's a reason they consider me an Honorary Guard, and leave it at that, shall we? As for the Gala..." I paused for a moment. "I should have her at least presentable during the occasion. Even if she isn't fully recovered by then, which I actually doubt, then she'll be recovered enough to be able to attend, and used to my attitude and mannerisms enough to not be fooled by anything the Nobles try to pass by her."
Celestia nodded, and walked outside, myself behind her and to her right. I walked her to her carriage, which was on the outskirts of town. Her guards returned when we got there. "Where were you?" Celestia asked, somewhat curious.
"Uh.."
"Pinkie, Rarity or Applejack?" I asked, a single eyebrow raised.
They looked away, and replied in unison. "Applejack." I nodded. "They were getting lunch from one of the best. I don't blame them for that. What I really want to know is why you left the Carriage unguarded." It was spoken as a statement, but it was more of a subtle order to spill.
And they knew it. Celestia looked between me and the 5 guards with slight interest. She looks more than a little curious. The mumbles they gave off were unintelligible, but I got the gist of it. They didn't think of that. "You didn't think that the most obvious way of getting her back safely could possibly be stolen?" My eyebrow was raised even more. They winced slightly.
Celestia and I both caught it. "I may not like her, but even I have standards for safety. That? That was stupid. Leaving a Royal Carriage alone, with no barrier, no guard, and no safety is just begging for it to be stolen. Would you do that to your own foals?" I questioned, causing them all to wince even more. "And what are you going to do about this?" Apologies all around to Celestia and myself. Sunbutt, because of the slight against her, and me, because it happened in my town.
I blinked at that thought. My town? I sighed. "Get going. Celestia, I will send you a report in a week or so. Don't be alarmed unless a month goes by without one." Sunbutt nodded, and they all left through the sky. Rarity was right next to me, as I watched them leave. "Rarity, remind me to contact the higher ups in the Canterlot Royal Guard later."
"Alright." She responded, not even looking at me.
I sighed, as I walked home.
Well, this is where you walked in. If you're reading this as a Fanfic, then I envy you. I hate to sound like an asshole, but I kind of am. I was an asshole before I ended up in Equestria, but at least I'm bearable now, or so Pinkie Pie tells me. I'm a little off my kilter, according to some, but at least people know where I stand when it comes to the town. Several of the adults know what I'm like normally, and though most don't like it, they accept it because I never turn it on the innocent. In fact, the fact that the Royal Guards come by the town somewhat damaged mentally, sometimes visibly, they always leave better off, and calm. I have shown them that some things aren't as they appear, and gotten them to look deeper than usual, and many have been surprised.
Most are probably still surprised that they don't know much about me beyond my skills.
Still, now that Twilight is here, things are about to bump up a notch danger wise. Of course, my current priority is Luna, who needs more help than I may be able to give her alone. For now, I'll focus on the thoroughly traumatized Lunar Princess, and THEN get everyone else. She'll be on Bed rest for an entire week at the least.
Looks like I'll have to get Nurse Redheart to be on the safe side. She's professional, at least.
-the next morning-
Twilight woke up in the bed I told her to take a nap on, out of it. When she realized where she was, she about panicked, before events from last night came up. I opened the door, and looked at her. "Ah. You're up, Twily." I said, sure that she'd either be a little confused, or just plain grateful to see a somewhat familiar face.
"Where am I?" She asked, calmer now.
"You're at my place. You passed out because of something Celestia said." I told her. Things are not going so well. "I let you sleep off the shock. It's about an hour past dawn, if you must know." Her eyes widened. "Relax, Twilight. It's not bad that you slept in. In fact, it's quite the opposite, considering the state you were in before you passed out."
"What do you mean?"
"You were light headed, under stress, suffering from the backlash of Magical Overload, a bit of emotional trouble, and then was told something that, more likely than not, could have destroyed your World View. If you didn't pass out, I'd have been surprised." I told her. "In fact, I'd have to say I was slightly surprised that you hadn't done so sooner, though the shock that I know Sky Dancer may have helped a bit with the fainting spell you went through at that point."
Twilight took a moment, and calmed down a bit. "Thanks. I think I'm a bit better."
I nodded. "Listen, I update the organize the Library every now and then. Usually once every few months. "While you're here in Ponyville, you're staying in the Library, so it would be your job. I'm a Psychologist, not a Librarian. And despite being unofficial, I'm more or less the only Guard in Ponyville."
"Well, thanks, I think." She had a look of thought on her face, before getting out of the bed. "Out of curiosity, you said yesterday that you were friends with my Older brother. How did that happen? Is it because of the whole Guard thing?"
I shrugged. "More or less. I'm an Honorary Royal Guard. Not actually paid to be one, but I'm respected as one, and known for my prowess in combat, whether Physical or Mental. I protect Ponyville from threats, and I protect the Royal Guards from their own minds. It's a challenge for many ponies, but I like to think I manage it well enough." I showed her my Cutie Mark. "It's how I got my Cutie Mark, at least. That's got to account for something. Who knows? There may be more to this than even I think, and I already have three translations for this thing."
"Well, I guess it's good to know that he trusts you." Twilight said, before shaking a bit. "Shining doesn't get along well with some kinds of Ponies, for some reason."
"Yeah, kind of my fault, that." I sheepishly rubbed the back on my neck. "He picked up a bit of my Paranoia, I'm afraid."
"Well, he's been more active in my life, which I think is somewhat a good thing." She admitted. "I'm just glad he's not being overworked."
I shrugged at that. "Yeah, well, he and I keep in contact. He's one of the few Guards I've seen that has little to no problems with his own mind or confidence. He comes by, though, more because he worries about you."
This surprised her, apparently. "What?"
"Shining Armor is a good Soldier, practically on the level of those where I was born." That was kind of understating it, to be honest. He was likely better, since his shields are adaptable. "But even so, he still worries about his family. You especially, though until you and Moondancer became friends, he was even more worried than he has been since."
"Why is he less worried now?" Twilight asked. "I mean, yeah he's my brother but, I don't get it."
I shook my head, and lead her downstairs. "Twilight, to answer that question, you'll have to continue in your research here. The Magic of Friendship is powerful, Twilight, but it's only as powerful as the friends in question let it be. Moondancer has been your only friend outside of your family. And no I'm not counting Spike into this, because I believe him to be more of Son to you, seeing as I know that you were the one to hatch his egg." That stopped her cold. I think that didn't even cross her mind. "You mean..." I blinked. She didn't know?
"You didn't know?" I asked, honestly confused.
"I didn't even think on why Princess Celestia let him stay with me. It didn't even cross my mind." Twilight confirmed. Figures.
"Well, now you know. Just... try to be more open with him. He was your only contact for years, and then Moondancer came into the picture." I told her. Pretty sure she'll need to think on it. "Also, word of advice? Any letters you send to Celestia, send them in a less formal fashion. I think she'd appreciate you doing that, going by what she said last night. You're close to her, and I could tell it hurt her to see ponies that she respects and trusts simply acting like she had to be respected at all times. Me? I'm a breath of fresh air. I'm different. I don't care that she's a Princess, same with Luna. I don't care that she could possibly burn my soul from existence, though I probably should." I thought on that for a moment. It was probably possible. "I treat her with my genuine emotions normally. Even though it was outright hatred I showed her, and told her straight to her face, she took it, and accepted it." I poured a pot of tea for Twilight as she sat down, using my wing.
"Don't get me wrong, it surprised her, but when I mentioned Luna's diaries, and alluded to the fact that I knew where they were, she probably has the general gist as to why I actually hated her. I only saw the situation from Luna's personal viewpoint. I had an insight into her mind, and she believed that Celestia knew what was going on with her, since she knew practically everything else."
Twilight was silent. "What she said... about Luna's Banishment. Do you think it was a mistake?"
I took a sip of tea. Probably was. "Honestly, it probably was. At that point, though, I can't see any other option that wouldn't result in loss of life. Celestia confronted Luna that day, and things ended. If Celestia didn't step in when she did, honestly? I think we would've seen death tolls. Who knows just how bad it could've gotten? The official story is that Luna left, and Nightmare Moon was sealed. Luna is back, the her return was exhausting, and her arrival was not without injury. It's true, but only from a certain point of view. It wasn't a good option. It's wasn't even a likable one. It's just the one with the least lives lost, that is, none. I think that's what Celestia was after."
I sighed and took another sip. "Was it a mistake? Yes. The sealing was the last resort option, and it wasn't able to finish the job. The mistake I see, however, came from the ten or so years beforehand, where Celestia more or less ignored Luna for her Job as Ruler. I will make it as simple as possible to understand. Luna was hated. She received more Hate Mail than any bully I know of. She was never acknowledged as herself, only as a tag along to her sister. No one ever saw her. Just the All powerful, all knowing, Goddess of the Sun, that everyone loved. To the nobles, Celestia was the only ruler. Luna didn't exist. If she did, Luna was only a foot note at best." I stared Twilight in the eye. "Twilight, I'll be frank with you. I can respect your skills. I can respect your ability. Even so, Blind Trust in any one being, pony or not, is foalish. In Equestria, it's less so than I'm used to, but honestly? I'm more of a blend between the two."
"How bad was it there?"
I took another sip. "What do you know about the Griffon Empire? The Political state, the laws, and the like."
"I have a basic understanding, why?"
"It's survival of the fittest there. The strong survive, and the weak perish." I told her, and she nodded, somewhat shaky. "Where I was born, it was worse. The ones that survived weren't just strong. They were cunning. They lied, cheated, stole, and killed. And when you consider the fact that they're nowhere near as bad as they used to be, that's actually saying something. The Griffon Empire is basically the Everfree Forest without the Chaos Magic in the ground. That's not that far off from Equestria, at that. Where I was born? It was the Polar Opposite of Equestria. And honestly? I'm glad I'm not there anymore, and I have no intention on going back."
And it was true. I really had nothing left there, even if there was something there to begin with. It's been eight years. It's entirely possible I was assumed dead. Besides, even if they managed to find me, it's not like they'd have a way to get back.
Still, if a Human pops up somewhere in Equestria, I fully intend to head them off.
"It's still there isn't it? The mindset you gained there. You still have it." I nodded at her assumption. "Is that why you're afraid Nightmare Moon isn't actually gone?"
I took another sip, and put the cup down. "Yes. It's that very reason why I believe in that very possibility. After eight years in Equestria, I've mellowed out quite a bit. I can normally turn my Paranoia on and off, now. If I go too long with it off, I start to get antsy, I'll admit, but a few days in the Everfree satisfies it. Sometimes, it turns on unexpectedly, and Celestia does that with her very presence. When my Paranoia is force activated by someone's presence, that's usually cause for lethal force back there." Her gasp was expected. "Because at that point, usually, someone or something is trying to kill me. That is why I'm on edge around her. She has me dead to rights, and she either doesn't know it, or doesn't care. And honestly? I don't know which is scarier. That is the kind of life you have to live where I was born. Any more information than that will give you nightmares, and I don't want to subject you to that."
Twilight gulped. "I... I see."
"Talk with Rarity, I haven't outright told her, but she's already guessed at most of what I just told you. Just remember, Twilight Sparkle." I stared at her. "This isn't information I let out lightly. No one in Ponyville knows this information, though Rarity suspects it. Where I was born is the reason Rarity wants Luna and I to get together romantically. She thinks I'll need romance in my life to truly be happy." I sighed. "Ask Rarity about what she thinks about me. Her ideas on my past, before I came to Ponyville. Then let her know what I told you. Rarity deserves that knowledge at the least. With the amount she's managed to accurately guess at, she deserves this much."
"You won't tell her?" Twilight asked, surprised. "But aren't you friends?"
I nodded. "We are, but consider what I said not even three minutes ago about Blind trust. I trust very few implicitly, Twilight, and even those few I don't trust Blindly. The past is the past, the future is now. Rarity is a good friend, don't get me wrong. Even so, she can be a little... much when it comes to fashion." I grimaced. "On top of that, my current priority has to be Luna's mental and emotional state. I need to be here for when she wakes up, which could be hours or days from now. Just... please remember that the first True friend I've had in a while is actually Fluttershy for a reason." Twilight blinked at that. "Oh, and if Time Turner asks you about me, tell him that I had my Shadow get the supplies. He'll understand."
Twilight nodded. "I'll also write my brother. If he says you're okay, then I'll believe him." I nodded in response. "For now, I think I'll finish the tea, and then talk to Rarity." She took a sip. "Though, if I may ask, why Fluttershy? I mean, don't get me wrong, she's kind of adorable, but she seems more or less the polar opposite of you."
That's actually somewhat accurate. Fluttershy and I are damn near polar opposites. I probably should explain that one better. I'm everything Fluttershy isn't. She's everything I'm not. And yet, both of us are good with animals. She's takes the calm and gentle approach. I can use that approach with the smaller animals, but the larger ones I tend to go with the "Rough and Violent" approach. "I guess you can say we both love animals. Her adorableness is actually kind of catching, I'll admit, but that's only what drew me to figure her out. What made her my friend is less complicated. She and I both love animals, though our methods are practically on opposite ends of the spectrum. Her Kindness does her credit, and her being the Element of Kindness doesn't surprise me in the slightest. I deal with the larger and more violent animals, ones that only respond to force. She doesn't like that I have to be overly mean, her words, not mine, but she at least realizes when she can't handle a task regarding the more violent animals. She knows that when such a situation pops up to ask me for help."
I took another sip. "Twilight, I won't mince words with you about this. I am violent. Make no mistake, and hold no delusions otherwise. Fluttershy? She's the polar opposite. In a way, our friendship is Harmony itself, because the two of us, who are, as you said, are polar opposites, can get along easily. She's been Innocent for the longest time. I have managed to help her maintain that innocence. You saw what happened when Nightmare Moon hit her. You saw how dangerous I was, how angry I was. If I actually had a marefriend, odds are, it would be Fluttershy. We aren't, simply because we have chosen not to be. I agreed, not only because I agree, but because I had given up on Romance so long ago that it feels like a far off memory, or a scattered dream."
Yes, I just quoted Kingdom Hearts. It actually fits, because I gave up on Romance back where I was born. Wondering why? It's why I quoted Kingdom Hearts. By this point, it's only a far off memory that's like a Scattered Dream. Romance just doesn't interest me. "I'm a guard through action, but it isn't actually my job. I'm a part time supplier, part time Military Therapist, and part time helper around town. I'm also friends with a Zebra that lives in the Everfree Forest. Her name is Zecora. She's the one that gave me the 'Southern Sky' title."
"I've been wondering about that." Twilight admitted, before using her magic to pour another cup of tea. "Why do you have that one? Honorary Guard, I get. What you did to Nightmare Moon is proof enough. Everfree Explorer is self explanatory. Psychologist, I can understand, though I don't actually know why. But the whole 'Southern Sky' thing gets to me. What does it mean?"
I sipped at my cup. "Honestly? I was wondering that too, at first. So, I asked Zecora why she called me that every time we met." Another sip. "Apparently, it's a combination of my method of flight, which isn't the usual, and that she believes I'm the one to go to when everything goes South. Do you know that expression?"
Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I know it. Shining did use that one a few times. I don't think he meant for me to hear it, though. It's when something goes horribly wrong."
I nodded. "More or less. Well, there's a level beyond that, which is commonly referred to as FUBAR. Many Guards can handle themselves, even when things go south. Very few of the Royal Guards can handle a situation that goes FUBAR. Those few aren't actually Captains, but they could be. I fall under that category, and for a reason. Out of every Royal Guard I know of, I'm the only one that actually has plans in place for a FUBAR situation. In fact, I have over ten, whereas the others that can handle that level of danger improvise more than anything else. They don't plan. They don't fight. They survive. At that point, that is all any normal Pony can do. I am not normal in the slightest. In fact, I consider the word a personal insult. Fair warning."
Twilight nodded in response. Seeing this, I continued. "That being said, as the only one with plans in place should the unthinkable happen, and, say Discord comes back and turns Equestria upside-down, leftside-right, and inside-out, I have three plans in place to counter at least 80% of what he could possibly do in Four places in Ponyville. Golden Oaks Library, Town Hall, Ponyville's School house, and my place. All four of them have protection the likes of which would give even Discord Pause. I specifically made those wards myself, and each one of them will stop Chaos Magic in its tracks. Mine is far more complex than that, but all of them aren't actually visible, despite the power within them. Those four properties are, by far, the safest in Ponyville."
"Discord?" Twilight asked, confused.
"He's the one that ruled before Celestia and Luna, and was defeated by the Elements of Harmony. He is, quite literally, a God of Discord, Chaos, and more or less the complete opposite of Harmony. His Magic reflects this. It's unpredictable by it's own nature." I grinned. "But I can account for Chaos to a point. These wards may not be able to stop everything but it comes pretty damn close." In Equestria, the only thing that could possibly get through these wards without my permission is possibly Luna, who created the damn things in the first place, barring the Chaos Magic Wards.
It won't stop a Nuclear Warhead from Earth, but the closest thing to that here can only be used by a sufficiently powerful Alicorn. Discord would not be able to focus enough power to do that.
"I didn't even see wards out there. No shields, or anything of the like?" She then looked at my flank. "Is that what the shield means in your Cutie mark?" I just smirked in response.
"I told you earlier, didn't I? I have several interpretations for my Cutie Mark. The swords are my will to fight. The Shield is my will to defend. The brain, and that's what is on the shield, could mean I'm smart, but I'm more inclined to believe that it's on the shield for a reason. I'm a Military Psychologist. I help the Royal Guard protect their minds, and their hearts. I protect them. They, in turn, protect Equestria. They usually pay 500 to 2000 bits afterwards, and it's dependent on them. Not me. I don't ask them to pay me, but they do so anyway. Your brother is the only one that doesn't pay, and he's also the only one who's actually a friend off duty." I paused. "Sorry. I have a tendency to rant while explaining. Still working on that." Have been for over 15 years, and I've only been in Equestria for eight.
Twilight nodded. "I do it too. Usually, I get smacked for it, causing me to stop. Moondancer got into the habit of doing so, mainly because half the time no one else really understands what I'm saying."
I stared at her for moment. "Right now, I'm wondering if we're related somehow, even though I know it's not possible. That problem runs in my mother's side of the family." And she's Human. We either say too much, or too little.
Twilight blinks. "I... don't think so. My Mom, as far as I know is an only child. And I have no idea about my father."
I shrugged. "I know it isn't possible in the last five generations. That much, I can remember, though it's been years since I've seen any of them."
"That's... Actually, I'm kind of sorry about that." Twilight took a sad face, but I shook my head.
"In the Immortal Words of an idiot, 'I just gotta keep on keeping on, ya know?' If I stop and dwell on any kind of depression, it'll stay with me for the rest of my life. Ask Rarity, or even Rainbow Dash what speed means to them. Rarity has more or less adopted my view on speed itself." I hold up a hoof. "The two subjects are related, if you know what you're looking at."
"I do have another few questions, if you're willing to answer." I nodded. "How is your wing strong enough to do that? I mean, I know they can act as a Magical Focus, but I didn't think that it worked like that. I've never even heard of a Pegasus's wing being a Prehensile limb."
I chuckled in response. "Twilight, what you do know about Physical Enhancement Spells?"
"Not much. Usually they increase the durability of the body, change it's state to another, or even alter the Physical form entirely. It's not actually looked into all that much. Most Unicorns don't see the point outside of combat." Twilight answered. "What does that have to do with your wing?"
"Pegasi do that naturally for Cloud Walking. They shift the mass in their hooves to a lighter, less dense state, allowing them to connect to the Cloud as if it were the ground. Dig deep into the Cloud Walking spell, and you'll find it does the same, to a point. They also spread Magic into their wings to fly, which is true, even for me. Most keep it at that through the wings and don't experiment. My Telekinesis is actually channeled through my feathers. Many of my combat spells are the same way." I explained. "Now, as for the next bit, do you know why so many Pegasi love flying fast, Rainbow Dash especially?"
Twilight looked confused. "Not really, and I don't see why you're asking."
I chuckled. "Patience, Twilight." I sighed. "The reason is their bodies constantly channel Magic internally to enhance their bodies. In doing so, their bodies can handle the higher speeds. It's like a magical buffer of sorts. It's also only on the surface to reduce the damage done. I didn't stay at the surface. I use it to strength the bone in the wing, and the wing itself. At the same time, I make sure to keep the flexibility of the wing, and increase that too. Cloud shaping and manipulation is an Internal Magic, despite the fact that Cloud shaping manipulates the area around the Pegasus. In fact, the only real external magic Pegasi regularly use deal with Wind and Lightning. The rest is mostly internal. I've just gotten used to using Magic both Internally and Externally, with more practice and variance on the External Magics. My control in External Magics outside of the usual increased my control over my Internal Magics. That allows me to strength any body part as needed. Wings included."
Twilight's eyes widened. "But how is that even possible? I mean..." I hold up a hoof, silencing her immediately.
"Twilight, there's a time and place for everything. Why I believed it to be possible will be said at a later date. For now, I suggest you head over to the Library. That is your new house for the time being."
Twilight stared at me. I stared at her. And she continued to stare, unblinkingly. I met her stare with just as few blinks.
And now, 30 seconds in, I'm standing behind her, and she's still staring at the Illusion I just made. It'll only shatter on contact. It won't blink. I flew up the stairs, completely invisible to the naked eye. I needed to check on Princess Luna, anyway.
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Did you really think I wouldn't be able to pull this off at all?
Keep in mind, this is only to get me back up and running. My others are still on hold, aside from "By Will of Snorkacks" which isn't a story, but rather a group of Prompts.
Basically, if you want to adopt one of those, feel free to let me know. Unless the Story Summary specifically says "DISCONTINUED" or "ABANDONED" then I have NOT given up on it.
ALL HAIL INSANITY! ALL HAIL THE LOG!
And don't forget...
I'M BACK BITCHES!