The Past Revealed
The sounds of a metal against metal jarred me out of my sleep; giving me a mind grain as well.
Conductor: We have reached our destination; Equestria's capitol, Canterlot!
The sounds of metal scraping against one another must have been the train stopping. I stretched a couple of times before going to wake the others. How they slept through that irritating noise eludes me but I just shrugged it off as a modern pony thing.
Rune: Everyone, we've arrived.
One by one, they woke except for one.
Rune: Rainbow Dash, Rainbow Dash!
Pinkie: Oh Dashie's a heavy sleeper so yelling won't get her up. I usually have to give her a shock to wake her up.
Rune: A shock eh, hmmm…
A twisted grin appears on my face as I leaned in close to Rainbow Dash and whispered…
Rune: If you don't wake up, I'll take this chance to violate you. *slowly rubs RD's wing*
She yelped and darted backwards out of her seat to the door in little time.
Pinkie: Wowie! That must've been some shock *giggles*.
Rainbow Dash didn't say anything; she just glowered at me with obvious disgust in her eyes. If facial expressions could talk, hers would be saying, "Stay far away from me you pervert!"
Scootaloo: That was soo~ cool Rainbow Dash! Can you show me how to do that?
Rainbow Dash: Ah, um sure kid. Some other time though.
Scootaloo: Sweet!
Apple Bloom: Look girls! We're here again! We haven't been here since the weddin! I wanna go see the theater!
Sweetie Belle: I can't wait to go get some souvenirs!
Applejack: Alrighty now calm down, we'll get to do all that stuff while we tour the place.
Rarity: Sounds like a lovely idea, but aren't we to be at the castle?
Twilight: Actually, you guys can go on ahead. I need to, um….go inform the princesses of our arrival.
Everyone's jaw seemed to drop as she said that.
Rarity: You mean you didn't tell the Princesses of our coming?
Twilight: Ehehehe~, maybe?
Applejack: Well Ah'll be an apples aunt, this is possibly the first time you didn't let the princesses know anything and not bug out.
Twilight's face beamed red and she looked away in embarrassment.
Rainbow Dash: Hahahah! So the egg head finally slipped up? Classic! Ahahahah!
Pinkie: Aw don't worry about it Twi, I tend to forget about a bunch of things I was supposed to do like how I was supposed to not eat the Cakes honey glazed, cream filled, delectable, ….
She began drooling at this point.
Twilight: Pinkie!
Pinkie: Huh?! What? Oh um, anyway uhhh…..what were we talking about?
Twilight shook her head.
Fluttershy: It's okay Twilight, its nothing to be embarrassed about; we all forget to do things at times. It just means that something else was occupying your mind.
Twilight: Occupying my mind? *stares at Rune*
Twilight suddenly turned beat red and drop to the ground with her hooves over her face.
Twilight: Oooh! Why'd I think of that?!
Fluttershy: Think of what?
Twilight: O-Oh nothing! Nothing, nothing, nothing! I'm just talking to myself, ahhahaahaha! I'll see you guy's later bye!
Before anyone could say anything she teleported away.
Rune: …..Well that was….something.
Applejack: Ah'll say.
Fluttershy: Was it something I said? Oh, I'll just have to go and apologize to her when we get there.
Rainbow Dash: What caused her to go all coo-coo like that?
Rune: Who knows?
Rarity: Well whatever the cause, I'm sure she'll tell us when she's ready. Now off we go!
Applejack: Hold on Rarity! Do ya even know where ya'll be goin?
Rarity: Why yes I do in fact. It would please me that you would remember I was brought here before thanks to Twilight's generosity?
Applejack: Oh that's right that was on Twi's birthday.
Rarity: Exactly; you didn't get to do much exploring elsewhere except for the castle and its grounds. Now you get the chance to see the entire city in all its glory, and I, Rarity, shall be your guide, we go!
And just like that, we began our tour of the kingdom. The city was a wondrous sight indeed and the people seemed so regal if a little stuck up. Rarity introduced us to some stallion called Fancy Pants and what I believe to be his trophy wife Fleur de Lis who I have to say was quite the beauty. Then, out of nowhere Rarity and the others began singing. It was odd to me but I decided to join in with them; we were having such a wonderful time we almost forgot what we came for, that is until a mail pony came to us with news.
Rarity: Oh, it seems like the Princesses are ready for us now.
Applejack: That must mean Twilight got things in order. We should hurry on up to the castle then.
Rarity: But I haven't finished shopping yet.
Applejack: Rarity…..really?
Rarity: Ehehehe~, I guess I can put it on hold for now.
Sweetie Belle: Honestly sis, you should know better.
Rarity: *glares at Sweetie Belle* well, what are we waiting for? Let's be off already.
Rainbow Dash: Someone's upset.
Applejack: Oh she's just bein huffy is all. C'mon, let's get to the castle and meet up with Twilight.
Rune: ….
Applejack: You alright there sugar cube?
Rune: Huh? Um, yeah I'm fine. Better hurry before she leaves us behind *smiles brightly and trots past AJ*.
Applejack: …..Hmm.
Soon, soon I will get the answers I seek. Hopefully there will be no blood shed on either side. I don't want to have to harm anyone, especially not these young mares…..but if the worst is to come, drastic measures may need to be taken.
It took us some time but we finally reached the castle; I must say that I was astonished by beauty of the castle and its size. Everything was so grand I couldn't find the right words to describe it. Applejack caught me gawking at the castle.
Applejack: Fancy stuff ain't it *nudges Rune in the side*.
Rune: That's one way of putting it. This is truly a castle for royalty. Why doesn't Twilight live here?
Applejack: Well-
Twilight: It's because I wanted to stay close to my friends no matter what.
Hearing Twilight's voice, we all looked around to see where she was.
Twilight: Whoa! Whoa! Look out! Gyaaaaaaahhhh!
Rainbow Dash: Incoming!
Rune: Huh?
Before I could tell what was going on, I was knocked to the ground.
Rune: Ugh, what in Equestria?
I tried to drag myself up but felt something heavy on my chest. As soon as my eyes focused I see that it's Twilight.
Twilight: Ow~, s-sorry about that. I'm still not used to my wings yet so flying's still kind of difficult for me.
Rune: Ah, don't worry about it.
Rainbow Dash: That's why I keep telling you to let my train you. With my help you'll be soaring through the air like a pro!
Fluttershy: I don't mind helping; that is if you want me to but if you don't then that's okay.
Twilight: Thanks you guys.
She smiled at her friends generous offers of help.
Rune: …..So, are you just going to keep sitting on top of me all day, cause if you are then wouldn't want to do that somewhere more, private?
Twilight: Huh?!
I gave her a sly smile as she fumbled about trying to get off of me.
?: Twily! How's it going baby sis?
Twilight: Sh-Shi-Shining?!
Twilight got off of me immediately as a white stallion with a blue mane approached us wearing metal armor different from all the other guards I've seen.
Twilight: Wha-What are you doing here?! I thought you were with Cadence in the Crystal Empire.
Shining: I was called back here to help break in some new recruits. Plus, Cadence said I could use a break from watching over the frozen wastelands. I tried to tell her I was fine but she kept persisting that I take it easy for a while and maybe come to visit you. Oh yeah, Cadence says hi.
Twilight: Oh that's right! I was supposed to write to Cadence after the games. Wait, who's in charge of the guards there then?
Shining: Oh, I left Flash Sentry in charge. The kid may be young but he's got a good head on his shoulders. By the way, who's your friend there? *points towards Rune*
Twilight: Ah, um this is uhh….
I chuckled slightly and extended my hoof to shake Shining's
Rune: My name's Runestone Chaser, you can call me Rune though.
Shining: *shakes Runes hoof* Nice to meet ya, name's Shining Armor, captain of the Royal Guards.
Rune: A captain? Well this is quite the honor.
Shining: Ah don't sweat it; any friend of Twi's is a pal of mines. So, what brings you all here?
Twilight: We're here to speak with the princesses about something.
Shining: Oh, well I hope it doesn't involve anything disastrous for Equestria again.
Rune: Hopefully it won't.
Shining: Huh?
Rune: Oh nothing.
There was an awkward pause of silence for a moment, and just when it looked like Pinkie was about to say something….
Pinkie: Hey! How about we- Mmmffff!
Twilight put her hoof over Pinkies mouth before she could utter some nonsense.
Twilight: Well any who, how about you escort us to the castle since you're on break?
Shining: Um, sure okay. Yeah I can do that, it'll give me some time to hang out with you guys and see what's new.
Twilight: Great. So let's go.
Shining: Alright, alright. No need to be in such a rush….that is unless you want to have some, alone time with your colt friend here. *nudges Rune*
Twilight: H-He's is not my c-c-colt friend!
Shining: Whatever you say Twily. *chuckles*
Twilight: Get back here you!
Twilight chased after her brother as her cheeks burnt crimson. It was quite the adorable sight actually.
Rune: Those two must be very close.
Applejack: That they are, they almost as tight as me and my kin folk. Ain't that right Apple Bloom?
Apple Bloom: Eeyup!
Rarity: The same could be said about me and Sweetie Belle, isn't that right dear sister?
Sweetie Belle: …..Meh.
Rarity: Why you little- Eh-ehehehehe, just some sisterly love. Hahahahaha….
Sweetie Belle: If you say so.
Rarity gave her one of those, "I'm going to get you later." glares which caused Sweetie Belle to hide behind Pinkie. Everyone shared a good laugh.
Twilight: Heeeeey~ what's the hold up? C'mon!
Applejack: Oops, looks like we were dallyin too long. C'mon y'all let's get a move on.
On AJ's signal, the rest of us made our way to the castle. Meanwhile….
Two mares of royal breed sit in a room together attending to their work.
?: Hmmm….
?: Is there something troubling you Luna?
Luna: Do not mind us sister, we have just been preoccupied lately.
Celestia: Are you still having trouble warming up to other ponies? I told you to drop the whole royal speech and converse regularly with others.
Luna: That is not what we- I, am worried about.
Celestia: Oh? Then what is it that has your wings all ruffled?
Luna: I do not know, I fear that something troubling will come our way sister.
Celestia: Oh you worry too much. Whatever happens, we will stand against it, together.
Luna: Hm, indeed we shall.
The troubled princess stares out of the window and towards the darkening skies; the rising of the moon is close at hand.
Rune: Wow, so this is the interior of the castle? It's just as beautiful and extravagant as the outside.
The castles design was far beyond anything I've ever seen.
Runes: These modern time ponies sure know their way around stone. Did unicorns help with the architecture?
Twilight: Why yes, they did; how could you tell?
Rune: A faint trace of magic still lingers about the entire castle.
Twilight: Wow, that's some impressive sensory magic you have.
Rune: Oh my sensory skills don't come from magic; I trained my mind and body to feel for magic and other things.
Pinkie: Wowie! That's super-duper cool! It's like having a 6th sense or something huh?
Rune: Correct.
Pinkie grinned happily at getting the right answer. I responded by patting her on her head.
Rainbow Dash: Hmph! anyone could've guessed that.
Applejack: What's wrong Rainbow? You want him to do that to ya too?
Rainbow Dash: If I had fingers or whatever Lyra talks about I'd flip you off.
Applejack: Oh yeah miss hot shot?
Rainbow Dash: Yeah!
Fluttershy: G-girls please calm down; we don't want to upset the guards.
Shining: Ah don't worry about that, the guards don't mind a little noise as long as you don't cause any damage to the estate.
Applejack: You thinkin about startin something?
Rainbow Dash: And what if I am? What are you gonna do about it huh, Applesmack.
Shining: …..Um Twi?
Twilight: Don't worry, I got this.
Before things got out of hand, Twilight sealed AJ and RD in a magic bubble until we got to the throne room. I laughed at them both the entire way. AJ just hid her face in shame and RD glared at me.
Rarity: Those two just don't know how to behave in a civil environment. It's a wonder how they were able to attend the gala at all.
Fluttershy: They're just expressing who they really are. I'm sure they wouldn't have actually started fighting here.
Spike: What took you guys so long?
Twilight: Spike! Good you made it here.
Twilight runs to hug her pet dragon.
Spike: The Princesses are just finishing up some last minute work. They'll be with you guys in a moment.
Twilight: Good job Spike.
Spike: Number one assistant at your service.
He did a little bow, taking in the glory of a job well done.
Twilight: Now all we have to do is wait here and-
?: That will not be necessary Princess Twilight.
A voice, bombing with regal pride came from behind us. I was stunned to see possibly two of the most beautiful and regal mares ever. The tallest one, her mane and tail were a mystical measure of colors and flowed with such a delicate grace. Her eyes were enchanting and filled with a compassion that I would not expect from one as noble as her. Her stride was confident yet subtle; her coat was silky smooth and gave off a pleasant aroma. Then I laid eyes upon the 2nd princess. Nothing could have prepared me for such a sight. She was simply stunning, dark purple and blue mane swirled and shined with such winsome. Her eyes were serious, but I felt the warmth they held under them, it sent chills down my spine. Her coat was as dark as the midnight sky and staring at it alone gave me an odd sense of serenity. I didn't realize my jaw was hanging loosely until Applejack closed it.
Applejack: Ya droolin a bit there sugar cube.
I quickly wiped my face and looked away in embarrassment; how shameful of me to gawk at them like that. I'm not some rowdy teenager anymore.
Twilight: Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!
Twilight trotted up to them both and hugged them.
Celestia: I am glad to see you are doing well Twilight. I see you've become accommodated with being a princess?
Twilight: Oh um, hehehe, not yet but I will. You can count on me.
Celestia: I believe in you Twilight, now what brings you and your friends here today?
Twilight: Oh right, we brought someone here who needs help with something…. shall we say difficult.
Celestia: Oh? And who might this mare or colt be?
Rune: That would be me your highness.
I stepped forward and bowed my head and stayed as such.
Rune: I have come to ask a great deal from you both.
Celestia and Luna looked at each other, puzzled.
Luna: What is it that you require from us? Is it dire?
Rune: In my case, it is. You see-
Just as I was about to tell them, a laughter I have not heard for such a long time filled the room. It was maniacal, demented yet childish at the same time. I knew this laughter and it belonged to only one creature.
Rune: Discord?!
As I uttered his name, I felt something behind me.
Discord: Ding, ding, ding! We have a winner folks! *places a winners cap on Runes head and shoots confetti from his paw*.
Twilight: Discord! What are you doing here?!
Discord: Why I could have sworn that I was a welcomed guest here now that I'm "reformed"; or is that not the case? I guess that means we aren't friends then.
As Discord pouted, everyone except Fluttershy rolled their eyes. Then Fluttershy did something I never could have imagined.
Fluttershy: Now, now everyone. Discord hasn't done anything wrong yet; you all are being unfair.
Rainbow Dash: Key word; yet.
Discord: Thank you Fluttershy, It's good to know I at least have one true friend. Now …Oh dear I seem to have forgotten why I've come here.
Rune: This is really him….the patron of Chaos. He's as maniacal as the tales foretold.
I must have spoken too loud because he turned his full attention to me. He focused both his eyes on mine, which made me uncomfortable.
Discord: Well you are an odd one aren't you?
Rune: W-what do you mean?
Discord: I mean you're not from this time are you?
Rune: !?
The Princesses gave Discord a questioning look before asking…
Celestia: Not from this time? What do you mean?
Luna: It would be wise not to play foolish on this issue Discord.
Discord: Oh fine, you two were never any fun. Well as far as I can tell, Twilight Sparkles little guest here is not of this time frame but one from the past.
Celestia: Impossible, time travel magic is extremely difficult and he is not a unicorn.
Discord: Ah, but did I say it was time travel? No it is quite different in his case for he did not come to the future but was frozen in it.
Twilight: How do you know all of this?!
Celestia: You mean to say you knew about this but did not consult me?
Twilight: I-I was but, I mean we were but um….
Rune: You must forgive her; I told her not to say anything for my own benefit.
Luna: And what benefit could you possibly get for keeping such a thing secret.
Discord: Oh wait, wait! *poofs up a chair and a bowl of popcorn* I feel a story coming along~.
Rarity: Must everything be a show for you? This is serious business we're dealing with here; if you don't mind.
Discord: All the more reason to enjoy it my dear.
Rune: It's okay Rarity, we came here today for just this reason.
I looked back at the princesses and began recounting my tale. By the end of it all, the room was silent.
Celestia: This is something very fascinating indeed. To think, there was a race of earth ponies that could control magic so long ago.
Luna: So there were few who did find peace in the moonlight….I never got the chance to know this.
Celestia: One thing I cannot make out is your explanation of how your clan came to an end.
Her ignorance towards my clan's demise irritated me.
Rune: You mean you don't remember that night?! You were there yourself!
Celestia: But did you see me there?
I was going to retort but I remained silent.
Rune: No, I have not.
Celestia: And so it is true, I have never once set hoof out near the Everfree or its outskirts ever since that faithful night.
Rune: If what you tell me is true, how do you explain your guards being there!
Luna: Cannot be, the royal guards were otherwise busy dealing with me as Nightmare Moon.
Celestia looked away with a hurt expression in her eyes. Could she really have been the one to assault my clan; if not her then who? My head began to ache.
Twilight: Is it possible to find out who did attack his family?
Celestia: I'm afraid not, tis not poss-
Luna: Wait sister, there might be a way. It might take some time though.
Celestia: Are you certain of this?
Luna: *nods*
Celestia: Very well, you will have your answer when Luna notifies you. Is this acceptable?
Rune: *Bows* It is, and forgive me for being so prudent as to shout within your chambers. I have been nothing but rude to you since you have arrived. I will accept any punishment you deem fit.
Celestia: Tis quite alright, I too would be upset if the ones I loved were attacked by an unknown force. You are free to-
Luna: Just a moment sister, you may have already forgiven him but I have taken offense to his accusations against you.
Celestia: But it is fine, we don't have to-
Luna: Yes we must sister. Tis not wise to let such disrespect go unpunished. You will stay here until your punishment has been decided.
Rune: Stay here? Why?
Luna: And he still has the nerve to question us still.
Rune: Erm, forgive me….
Luna: That is better. We will prepare a guest room for you to stay in while you wait.
Rune: Thank you, your highness.
She nodded and walked away.
Celestia: Um, you must forgive my sister. I have never seen her get so upset over something so trivial before.
Discord: Well in my opinion, you both are a bit too high strung. Especially moon butt over there.
Celestia: And may I ask why you are still here?
Discord: Well if you must know, I just stopped by to give something to our "special" friend here.
Rune: Something for me?
Discord: Why yes, I just so happened to find it while I was spelunking out near the Everfree. This time of the year is just perfect for such rigorous activities; any who, I believe this may belong to you *hands Rune a round object*.
Rune: What is this? This almost looks like…..*gasp!* H-how did you?! This can't be real!
Discord: Oh but indeed it is. Well, that's all the time I can spare. I must now be off now. We're still on for tea later right Fluttershy?
Fluttershy: Of course.
Discord: Splendid! See you then, tata~.
He snapped his fingers and disappeared.
Celestia: Still with his secrets I see.
She shook her head.
Celestia: Now, what was it that brought upon such alarm?
I stared at the shiny marble in my hoof for a moment, considering what I should say.
Rune: …
Celestia: If it is something you do not wish to speak about I will respect your privacy.
Rune: Thank you Solari princess *puts the marble in saddle bag*.
Celestia: But of course, now if you wish to resign for the day I can call the guards to escort you to the guest area, or if you so wish you can explore the castle a bit; with an escort of course.
Rune: I think I would like to see the rest of this wonderful castle, if you'll allow it.
Celestia: By all means, let me hail you a guard.
She called one of the guards to her side and whispered into his ear. The guard nodded and trotted out of the hall.
Celestia: A guard will meet you outside of this hall. It was a pleasure meeting you and I hope you enjoy your stay.
Twilight: I hope everything will be all right Rune. I've never known Princess Luna was one to give out punishments.
Rune: It's fine, the one at fault here is me. Besides, I'm sure any punishment of this era can't be any worse than our methods.
Twilight: D-do I even want to know?
Rune: Trust me, you don't, and on that note, I bid you all a farewell.
I gave one last bow to both princesses before leaving. I spotted a guard outside standing stationary.
Rune: Are you the guard that the princess call for to escort me?
He gave me a confused look and shook his head.
Guard Pony: I did not receive such orders from the princess.
Rune: Oh? Then who am I to meet?
?: That would be me.
I spun around to meet a mare with a lavender coat and a rose colored mane. Her eyes were pale yellow and she adorned silver armor; on contrast to the normal gold armor the male guards wear. I suspected that she was a lieutenant or something higher because every guard that walked by her saluted her.
?: Well? Aren't you going to introduce yourself?
Rune: Ah, um…my name is Runestone Chaser. Forgive me for the late introduction.
?: Hah, you're so formal and polite, almost like you're nobility. Are you a prince in disguise or something? Maybe you came here to take one of the princesses' hooves in marriage?
Rune: N-no, not at all. I'm just a regular earth pony of no importance.
?: Hehehe, calm down I'm just messin with ya. My name's Jasmine Ironheart, 2nd Lieutenant of Commander Shining Armor, but you can call me Jazz, nice to meet you Rune.
I sighed and shook her extended hoof; feeling embarrassed being toyed with like that.
Rune: A pleasure making your acquaintance; so, Lieutenant, what's a young mare like yourself doing in the military?
Jazz: Well, ya know, I was a poor kid on the streets causin trouble for folks. One day I tried to swipe a coin purse from some dude in gold armor; turns out it was one of Princess Celestia's Royal Guards and I was capture and set to be imprisoned. I didn't care much and knew it was going to happen sooner or later so I didn't struggle when they brought me to the castle; it was my first time meeting the princess and I was in shackles. Now, I expected her to look at me with disdain and disgust, but she looked at me with such sadness, that I damn near cried. Then she did something no one has done for me in such a long time, she gave me a chance to change, a chance to right my wrongs by joining her Royal Guard. The dam was broken, and I wept like foal thanking her and apologizing; since then I've dedicated my life to protecting and serving the princesses.
Rune: Sounds like you had a hard past.
Jazz: Hell yeah I did. You wanna know the best part?
I raise my eyebrows, having my curiosity peaked, as she leaned in close as if to whisper it.
Jazz: I made the whole thing up…
There was a brief pause between us…
Rune: What?!
Jazz: Pfft Hahahahaha! Oh, oh you should see the look on your face, priceless!
I hang my head in shame and embarrassment after being fooled again.
?: C'mon Jazz, stop teasing the poor stallion. He hasn't been around you long enough to know when you're kidding.
A stallion clad in red armor approaches us leading a squadron of soldiers behind him. He seemed built to take on an entire battalion by himself but seemed gentle and caring at the same time. I feel like I've met a stallion like him before…
Jazz: Ah c'mon bro I'm just havin some fun with the guy.
?: I know, but not everyone understands your sense of humor like I do; despite how morbid it generally is.
The stallion came to an immediate halt in front of us and his men followed suit. They seemed so well trained which must mean he holds a high rank.
?: Where are my manners, I'm General Garnet Steelhoof , captain of Commander Shining Armors 1st Squadron.
I shook the stallions extended hoof which dwarfed my own.
Rune: An honor to meet you sir.
Garnet: You have respect and manners; I like that but please save the formalities. Outside of the training grounds or the princesses' presence I am just an ordinary stallion like others. Feel free to call me Garnet if you wish.
Rune: Fair enough, so Garnet how did your sister and you get enlisted?
Garnet: Well, some of what she told you was true. Back when Discord was on the loose, our family lived in a quiet lil town not too far from Trottingham. Let me just tell you, living there wasn't easy for anyone; constant gang violence, theft, murder, the works, it just became second nature to us after a while. One evening, while I was working my 2nd job at a factory, I got a call sayin that Jazz was being taken by the Royal guards for tryin to steal from'em.
Jazz: That's when I got the scolding of a life time.
Garnet: After we got everything all situated and was about ready to head back home, Discord showed up spreadin his chaotic evil all over the place. The stories were proven to us right then and there; his "pranks" may be ridiculous, but they are just as dangerous. He literally turned the town upside down destroying just about everything.
Jazz: The Royal Guards were made useless due to there being as few of them as it was. It seemed like our home was doomed, but me and Garnet was not havin it.
Garnet: Jazz was the first to take up arms against Discord; I followed her to make sure she didn't hurt herself.
Rune: I could imagine things turned out fine?
Jazz: Well….
Garnet: Like every other pony tells us; we were out of our minds to try such a thing as fighting Discord. He made quick work of us with little to no effort. Then, just when we thought we were goners…
Jazz: The Princesses flew in and chased Discord away!
Garnet: Turns out they were tracking him down when he happened to appear in our town. They were even kind enough to undo all the damage he did. We couldn't thank them enough for all they've done.
Jazz: Here's where things get crazy.
Garnet: Turns out that Royal Guard my sister was stupid enough to try to rob-
Jazz: Hey!
Garnet: He was a General who was sent to monitor areas where Discord was last seen. He saw how we fought against Discord when no one else did and offered us a position in the Royal Guards reserves.
Jazz: We were both speechless, this was far beyond anything we could've imagined….but-
Garnet: We didn't accept right away.
Jazz: Even though I wanted too.
Garnet: I went home to inform our parent about the offer.
Jazz: I stayed and had to take a test…ugh. I'll never forget how bad my head hurt after all that paperwork. Luckily though, I managed to pass the written test….barely.
Garnet: I got the okay from our parents who were just as speechless as us; though they worried for our safety and well-being, they were really enthusiastic about it. I too took an exam later on and passed.
Jazz: After a few more questions and other boring stuff we were finally admitted into the Royal Guards reserves and worked our way up to the positions we have now.
Rune: That was quite the tale, and I thank you for sharing something so personal with me.
Jazz: Ah don't sweat it, we like sharing our story with ponies. Gives'em an in depth view on how we feel about being in the Royal Guards.
Just as Jazz was about to continue our conversation…
Guard: Lieutenant Jasmine and General Garnet, Commander Shining Armor has called for all troops for regulated training!
Jazz: Ugghhh! This again?!
Garnet: C'mon Jazz, orders are orders. All units! Move to the training grounds.
Soldiers: Sir!
Jazz: Fine! Ah hell, I gotta get you to your room first don't I? I don't have time though; if I'm late he'll make me do extra work! Ummm….c'mon Jazz think…
Jazz was truly troubled about her current situation…maybe I should do something.
Rune: Might I suggest something?
Jazz: Huh?
Rune: Might I propose an idea to you?
Jazz: Uh..yeah, sure, go ahead make it quick though.
Rune: I could tap into your memory and locate the room myself.
Jazz: Tap into my what? My memory; you mean like mind reading?
Rune: Something of the sort; I won't do it without your consent though.
Jazz: Ummm…what the hell, sure.
Rune: Okay, come closer. Also, remove your helmet.
She hesitated for a moment before removing her helmet and coming closer to me. I closed my eyes and put my hoof on her head. A slight gasp escaped her as I sent my consciousness into her; probing recent memories, searching for that room. As I did, I caught glimpses of her past and present memories. The story about Discord, her childhood, her fear, her dreams, I could see it all. I pulled out of her mind before I get lost in the sea of her thoughts after retrieving the info I needed.
Rune: There, that should do it. Jazz, are you alright?
Jazz swayed back and forth in a daze. Her eyes were glossy and she appeared to be lost.
Rune: Oh, shoot I forgot about the side effects. Hold on I have something to help.
I dig into my pack and pull out a vial containing medicine for disorientation.
Rune: Come now, sit down and lean your head back.
In her state, all she could do was obey. I tilt her head back and pour the medicine down her throat. With a cough she was brought back to her senses.
Jazz: Ugh! Bleh! Ew! What was that gunk?! Wait…what was I doing again?
Rune: You were just on your way to the training ground with your brother.
Jazz: Oh right, well I'll catch you later then!
She trotted off in a hurry leaving me alone to find the room. After a couple of hours of wandering and gawking at the décor, I finally found my room just as it was getting dark.
Rune: Even the guest rooms are beautiful. They put so much love and care into this castle.
Luna: It was a token from our parents. This entire castle was their design, we just remodeled it.
I spun around shocked to hear Princess Luna's voice. She stood there at the door glaring at me.
Rune: Your highness, *bows* I did not notice you were there.
Luna: Hm, you also didn't seem to notice my presence when you were invading Lieutenant Jasmines mind.
My eyes widened in shock and my voice caught in my throat.
Rune: I…I am terribly sorry your highness *lowers head*. I did not mean any harm.
She says nothing and continues to glare at me; does she still not trust me? I raise my head a little to see if she was still there; to my surprise, she was, and deathly close I might add. I almost jumped back until she told me-
Luna: Stay still, I will not harm you…..possibly.
I stood perfectly still as she appeared to be examining me. I began to break out in a cold sweat.
Luna: Hm…you do appear to hold vast amount of magic within and around you and yet, you are not unicorn or some mystical beast in disguise. This so called rune magic you speak of is an oddity in itself as much as you are. I wish to study this anomaly further.
Rune: Study? By study do you mean…me?
Luna: You are the only one of your kind that is present. We know not of this, Alya you search for, unless you are withholding such needed information?
Does she mean to visit Alya and scan her memories? What consequences could trudging up those memories she tried so hard to repress hold? For all I know she could lose her sanity…I am already on the brink of collapse as it is; I will not have her suffer these horrid nightmares as I do.
Rune: ….I will do as you wish.
Luna: Good; we shall begin immediately. Come, lay down.
Rune: Um…okay?
I do as see tells me without question in fear that she might not hesitate to forcefully access my memory. I was not prepared for what came next though…She climbed into the bed with me.
Rune: !?
Luna: Thou shalt remain silent! Tis not what you believe!
I shrank back at her sudden yelling. She's quite terrifying in person; she seemed to take notice of my fear and cleared her throat.
Luna: Forgive me; I am not accustomed to lying with a stallion, I have only slept with my father as a foal.
Rune: O-oh um, I see. Pardon my rudeness, but why are you lying next to me?
She seemed a bit fidgety and just stared at a corner. If I wasn't mistaken, I'd even say she was blushing. This just made my mind whirl and I began to get embarrassed.
Luna: I-I don't use this method often with ponies older than foals. It helps calm them down and lets them dream easier. I wish to change ponies' view of me being a "Nightmare"; so I started with the children.
Just like a mother of the night. She may be frightening at times but she loves all of her subjects dearly. It makes me wonder if there was another reason behind her rebellion against her sister. Argh! Now's not the time to be thinking about this!
Rune: S-so you mean to get a better view of my dreams by sleeping with me?
Luna: Yes, I want to find out what is the true cause of you being in the era. I do this for my people and possibly keep Equestria safe from an unseen danger. I trust you will comply?
Rune: I see; if it will put you at ease.
I could understand her reason for worrying still; if I were standing in her hooves I'd also want to ensure absolute safety for my kind. This was still pretty awkward considering she's the goddess my people worshipped and revered. We lay down and stared at each other.
Luna: I will warn you though, try anything indecent and I will have you imprisoned longer than I was on the moon.
I shiver at the idea of a longer imprisonment than my stone tomb.
Rune: I will be on my best behavior; (can't say the same for my mind though).
Luna: What was that?
Rune: Nothing. Please, proceed.
I closed my eyes and began drifting off to sleep; all the while I could feel her magic probing my mind. I reflectively rejected her but slowly lowered my defenses to allow her access; her presence was warm, soothing and overall gentle. It was like a blanket that pulled me deeper into slumber.
?: Hey, hey Rune wake up.
I slowly opened my eyes to the sound of a familiar voice.
Rune: Alya?
Alya: Who else were you expecting? You do remember we were told to scout the forest right?
Rune: Scout the forest? Oh, yeah that's right. Sorry I guess my heads just a bit foggy.
She shook her head but smiled at me warmly.
Alya: Well then c'mon, maybe some fresh air will clear the fog.
Rune: Yeah…maybe.
Alya: C'mon Katja! We're heading out now.
Katja: Coming!
This is all so familiar…could I be dreaming right now?
?: That is correct.
I spun around to see a pair of glowing eyes stare at me from the shadows.
Rune: Who are you?
The cloaked figure stepped forward.
Rune: Princess Luna! Why are you….no, I know why you're here.
Luna: I have done much researching of you Runestone Chaser. You are definitely by no means a normal pony. The magic you and your kinsmen know is very ancient, but as far as I can tell it poses no real threat. If anything, I could say your people were nothing but extraordinary village ponies. There is just one thing that made me curious; for such a peaceful colony, why are you so military savvy?
Rune: Even if we are peaceful it does not mean we must be helpless. Due to our "unique" abilities we were often attacked or hunted by townsfolk during this time; it is the reason we became nomads. We could never stay in one place too long in fear that we would be discovered yet again. Until we found this cave; that is when we were finally able to settle and live normally.
Luna: I see…
Rune: Our only guide was always the moon; it was only at night when we could escape villages undetected. We relied on it so heavily that when we heard about you, we saw you as our guide and savior. The children also spoke highly of you even though you knew nothing or our existence.
As I told Luna this, her eyes grew in surprise and her cheeks flushed red from what I would guess was embarrassment. Feeling my gaze upon her she cleared her throat and began to speak.
Luna: Well, I am grateful to know your people saw me as such. Tis a shame I cannot repay them for their kindness.
Rune: That it is…
We both stood there for a moment in complete silence, and then the space around us began to warp. The scenery around us changed from the cave to the Everfree Forest.
Rune: This place…this is the place we spotted the Royal Guards and your sister Prin-
I turned to face her but she was gone. Then I heard a voice in my head.
Luna: (I will watch from the shadows of your mind, I cannot be seen by any other than the dreamer nor can I interfere in fear I may distort the fabric of their memory.)
I shook my head in acknowledgement and played through those same painful events again. By the time we reached the part of my memory where Alya and I were being incased in stone, I woke up. I slowly opened my opened my eyes.
?: Well good morning there sleepy head.
I blinked a few times before my vision cleared up to meet a smiling Jazz.
Rune: Jazz? Why are you here?
Looking a bit hurt, she retorted with-
Jazz: Well for one I work here and two I'm your wakeup call Mr. Sunshine.
Her sarcastic attitude was enough to siphon a small chuckle from me.
Rune: Forgive me; I'm not used to waking up to others voices yet.
Jazz: Others voices? Oooohh I get it, you're used to hearing your lovers voice aren't ya? Who was she? What did she look like? Are you two still together?
Once again I'm being bombarded by question early in the morning.
Garnet: Alright Jazz, that's enough; the man's business is his and his alone.
I sit up to see Garnet standing at the door.
Jazz: Ugh! You're such a kill joy ya know that Garny?
Garnet: Okay first, never call me that again and second, its Mr. Kill joy to you. You got him up; now return to your post as the princess ordered.
Jazz: Jeez, lighten up I was just havin some fun.
She turned to me.
Jazz: I will get answers from you someday, count on it.
With that, she made her way out of the room, brushing past Garnet.
Garnet: Sorry about my sister. She tends to be a bit over bearing when she's bored on duty.
Rune: Its fine, I kind of enjoy her over bearing nature; helps me relax in this place.
Garnet: Yeah, I feel you. She may be a headache at times but I love her, she's my only sibling and I'll protect her no matter what.
I could admire Garnets love for his sister. He has the same look in his eyes that I used to hold; a look that said he would do anything to protect the ones he loved even if it means his demise.
Garnet: Well, I have to head back and begin the troop's routine patrol. Catch ya later.
After Garnet left, I was alone in the room. I sat there and reminisced the details of what occurred last night. Did the princess trust me now? Will I have to remain here under her watch? Will she agree to help me find a means to return to my time? I juggled these questions in my mind fearing the worst of them. What I need to concern myself with now is…
Rune: What do I do now?
As I say this, a letter appears in front of me. I jump back in surprise as the letter opens itself. I began reading it despite my reluctance to read things I have no prior knowledge of who sent it. It read…
If you wish to discover the truth behind your clans fall, meet me in the royal chambers immediately.
-Princess Luna
Rune: Discovering the truth? Did she see something I did not?
Pondering what I should do, another letter appeared before me.
It would be wise not to keep us waiting. We suggest you make haste.
-Princess Luna
I take her advice and gather my things before rushing towards the throne room. When I got there, 2 guards were on standby. I timidly walked towards the door expecting to be stopped, but they did nothing. I gave the door a slight tap and both were pulled open from the inside. Standing at the far end staring out through the stained glass portraits was Princess Luna.
Luna: Come forward.
I did as she commanded and entered the room. As soon as I did, the doors behind me slammed shut. My heart was pounding as I expected her to decide my fate.
Rune: You summoned me princess?
Luna: We have seen many dreams in the centuries we lived, but yours was something of a first for us. We could feel the love, pain, and sorrow stronger than ever before. Since the connection was stronger than normal we were even able to see parts of your memory left unanswered. What we discovered was most certainly troubling indeed.
Her face twisted in a sense of both worry and anger.
Rune: What did you find?
Luna: ….We found out who really attacked your people.
My breath caught in my throat as I couldn't believe she discovered the true culprits. I anxiously awaited her answer.
Luna: The ones who attacked your people was a race of insect like ponies called Changelings and their leader Queen Chrysalis.
End