Chapter 7: The Future is Here!
Twilight apprehensively opened her eyes, she wasn't sure what to expect anymore from these dreams. She saw that she was in a small room this time, with only two others inside. A familiar set of bright red and snow white. The room was furnished with a desk and chair as well as a bed and nightstand with a cute animal themed lamp. It should've felt cozy, with various colorful posters and a plethora of toys and stuffed animals. Yet, Twilight could feel the heavy weight of sorrow permeate everything.
Upon a soft bed there lay a small girl hugging a plush lion while holding her brother's hand. She had a sad smile as she looked at her brother's tear filled face. He kneeled by her bed holding her hand tightly. His expression was full of desperation as tears ran down his face.
"Don't cry Shirou, you and I both knew this was going to happen. I'm just happy I was able to spend my last moments with you. We missed so much time before meeting and it was so fun catching up with the time we had left." She brought his hand to her cheek and nuzzled it.
"You'll be okay Shirou, I know you will. You're strong Shirou, a mind of steel remember." She giggled at the name he'd given his hardheadedness.
"Illya, we still have time, we can still find a way to heal you." Shirou brought himself closer to her, to hold her. His arms trembled, he feared she'd disappear at any moment. "I can still save you, I just need to trace Avalon. That'll work, Avalon saved me, remember? Surely it'll do the same for you."
"And I also know why it won't work for me like it did for you." She began to pat his head to comfort him. "You've already saved me Shirou. You gave me so many precious memories and reminded me of the love my parents once gave me. I truly love you, Shirou. And as your older sister I can't have you crying over me. It's my job as the eldest to make sure my little brother can be happy."
"How can you say that Illya? I haven't saved you at all, you're still dying. Your body is falling apart and I can't do anything to stop it. I made a promise to our dad, to be a hero in his place. Yet I can't even save his daughter." Shirou's sobbing grew louder as he could feel Illya's breath grow shallower.
"You are a hero Shirou, you just don't see it that way. As your sister, I have a final piece of advice I hope you take to heart." Illya could feel as her body continued to tear itself apart, such pain once crippled her with only her rage sustaining her. Now, she could ignore it for the happiness she held now overcame any pain. "You are more than the worth you hold for yourself. You're worth more than anything in the world to those who love and cherish you. I love you and so do Rin and Sakura. Saber loved you as well, I saw how the two of you resonated with one another. Yet you never saw them as anything more than people to save. Even now you only see me as another life to be saved and I know you promised to be a hero who saves everyone. I still think you can be such a hero, but the issue is you still don't understand that saving a life is more than keeping them alive."
"I don't understand Illya. Isn't an Ally of Justice supposed to protect lives?"
"No Shirou, an Ally of Justice saves lives. I wish you'd understand that, I know if you did you'd see how you've already saved so many of us." Illya could feel her organs failing, the damage done to her in preparation for the grail war finally taking its final toll. "Shirou, make me a final promise."
"Illya, please there has to be something I can do. Anything, even if it means trading my life for yours!"
"Stop that! Stop acting like your life doesn't matter!" Illya coughed up blood as she strained herself to shout. "Just stop, and promise me this. Shirou, you'll keep living and you'll be a hero, but like papa was. Nor like Saber or any of the other servants. Shirou, promise me, you'll become a hero who can truly save everyone. Not like papa nor Archer, but as you, Shirou. The hero Shirou Emiya who saved me." With a final, hopeful smile, Illya fell still.
"Illya? Illya?!" Shirou's desperate cries shook Twilight to her core. His raw emotional pain slammed into her psyche. "I'm sorry Illya, I'm so sorry!"
Yet no amount of crying would bring her back.
As Shirou's mind finally accepted that Illya had passed away, Shirou's gaze became blank. The light in his eyes faded. Twilight saw this change and began to cry, it was all too much. Shirou, please don't shut yourself away. I can't even imagine how you feel, but you shouldn't hold it in. Please Shirou.
It was then Twilight awoke. She could still feel the tears drying on her face. Why did you have to suffer so much Shirou?
-{/}-
In a guest room within Canterlot Castle, Shirou awoke with a start. He looked around, surprised to find himself on a luxurious bed. He could faintly recall what'd occurred before he'd passed out. He'd been staring at the scene of sisters reunited when his eyes became blurry. They really reminded me of moments I've lost. Of the brief time I spent with Illya. As well as the discovery that Rin and Sakura had been sisters. I do hope they didn't take my disappearance too bad. They still have a whole life ahead of them after all. It'd be a waste to spend it worrying about me.
After he'd begun to cry due to the memories, he remembered Celestia still holding a crying Luna approaching him. While he couldn't recall their conversation, as short as it was, he did remember being overtaken with emotion. As his eyes became rivers, a beautiful, white wing entered his view before enshrouding him in its soft, angelic feathers. I must've been knocked out after having forcefully used my Reality Marble. I really should figure out where I am first and find Twilight.
He pulled away the sheet to find himself covered in bandages and wearing only his underwear. He could still feel the soreness from his wounds as he moved to get out of bed. He also felt a dull ache from his magical circuits. Seems I took quite the beating and overworked my circuits. I'll thank whoever patched me up later, first I need to find my clothes and armor. Then I'll search for Twilight.
Looking around the room, Shirou saw a dresser. While massive by pony standards it was around average for a human Shirou noted. Being a stallion was pretty convenient. No use crying over spilt milk. My stuff is probably in there.
Opening the dresser he found his clothes had been mended with a small note attached.
'I took the liberty to repair your clothing darling, as thanks for your help. Although I must insist you come by my boutique as soon as possible for a new wardrobe. ~ Rarity'
I should definitely thank her the next time I see her. I also have to find a way to pay her for the mending and any future clothes.
With that matter settled he continued to search the dresser for his armor, only to find it absent. Maybe they needed more time to repair it, considering it was made with a blend of advanced Earth materials and runes. In that case I'll have to check on it myself to make sure it's properly handled.
Now that he was fully clothed, he decided to head out and see if he could find any of the ponies he knew. They'll probably know what's going on now that Nightmare Moon is gone. Thinking about Nightmare Moon, I do wonder how Celestia's sister is handling her newfound freedom. Its rare to have someone purified from such corruption, yet those six were able to pull it off. They really saved her, and all I could do was keep her busy. What good are my blades if the most they can do is kill? I wouldn't have been able to save her at all had it not been for Twilight and her friends.
Shirou left the guest room and entered a large hallway, even by human standards. It seems even here they can't help but create such grand buildings. I do wonder what Saber would've thought about a place named Canterlot of all things. Considering Celestia's power and authority I don't think she'd take it too bad. His thoughts were interrupted by a Royal Guard that had been posted to his room.
"Sir! We've been ordered by Princess Celestia to take you to her should you awaken." The Royal Guard looked at him in slight curiosity but quickly masked it. "Please, follow me so I may show you to the Princess."
"Sure," Shirou replied, "lead the way." He felt it was safe to trust a Royal Guard and couldn't sense any ill intent from them. Plus with Nightmare Moon gone there should be less danger. It still pays to stay alert even in times of peace. You never know what curve balls life is gonna throw your way after all. He wouldn't admit it, but the idea of peace had become so foreign to Shirou that it left him feeling odd now. He was far too used to throwing himself into Apostle Hunt after Apostle Hunt he rarely took a moment to truly rest.
The way to the Princess was a quiet one. Shirou took the time to familiarize himself further with the castle interior. He made sure details such as the number of rooms, windows as possible escape routes, and other such measures in case of an emergency. I do wonder how they made such a massive structure without opposable thumbs. Are they simply that gifted with magic?
"Here we are sir," the guard stepped aside so Shirou could access the double doors leading to a large chamber, "the Princess should be inside."
"Thank you," said Shirou as he reached for the doors. The guard merely nodded before returning to his station.
Entering the room, Shirou spotted not only Princess Celestia, but also Twilight, her new friends, Spike, and Princess Luna. They were talking about setting up a party by the sounds of Pinkie Pie exclaiming her multitude of plans on how to celebrate their successful adventure. A small smile made its way onto Shirou's face at their antics. There was a strange air about Twilight, but he dismissed it as her being tired.
"Oh, Shirou! You're finally awake. We were so worried when you passed out, but the Princess assured us that you'd be taken care of once we returned to Canterlot." Twilight was the first to notice Shirou's presence and immediately moved towards him. "We're currently discussing what kind of party to throw since Pinkie insists that we need to throw one after that whole ordeal." She gave him a strained smile.
"That sounds like Pinkie. How long have I been out by the way?" Shirou hoped he hadn't been asleep for too long. Knocking out after a battle was bad enough already. I'm glad Twilight and the others are doing fine. Though she still seems a bit worn out. At least she's not falling over herself trying to stop Nightmare Moon anymore.
"Well we got back pretty late in the day, but you've been asleep for nearly half a day. We were about to eat lunch so it's good you've joined us now." Twilight led Shirou to the rest of the group as she continued to speak. "By the way, I never asked about human diets and what kind of food you like to eat. You did mention cooking and I saw how you ate a fair number of the dishes at Sweet Apple Acres, so you can eat some pony food at least."
"Well, we're omnivores so we'll eat things from fruits and vegetables to fish and other meat. I don't really have a favorite dish. I prefer to cook food that others like." Before they could continue, Shirou's stomach rumbled.
"Either way it sounds like your stomach is more interested in eating right now than cooking." Twilight giggled as Shirou looked to the side sheepishly.
"Hey Shirou! I wish I hadn't fallen asleep for the whole adventure you went on. I'm glad you're better though. Twilight had me worried when she got back with the others, and Princess Celestia had to carry you cause you passed out." Shirou looked to Spike who'd moved to meet them halfway to the group.
"Thanks Spike, but I wouldn't want you to put yourself in danger following us," Shirou replied.
"But I know I can help you out next time!"
"Spike, I know you wanna help, but it's still too dangerous for a baby dragon."
"Shirou's right, Spike. I wouldn't want you to get hurt either." Twilight tried to comfort Spike by giving him a hug. He reluctantly accepted and knew they meant well, but it still annoyed him.
Finally reaching the rest of the group, the others who'd been occupied with Pinkie turned to them.
"Well, you're a lookin' fine partner. Glad to see you back in tip top shape considering how bad ya looked after that fight." Applejack had been very worried seeing Shirou all bloody after the fight he had with Nightmare Moon.
"Now that you're up, you gotta tell us what that weird place was!" Rainbow Dash zoomed towards Shirou, she had been anxiously waiting for an explanation of that land of steel. As unnerving as it was, the swords and power Shirou wielded there were awe inspiring.
"Oh yeah! It was so freaky, like all cloudy and full of swords and regret and loathing and-" before Pinkie could continue Applejack interrupted her.
"Now Pinkie, no need to go into such details about it. We were all there to see it after all."
"Pinkie does have a point though, darling. It was quite dreadful being there." Rarity still shivered a little recalling the ash that covered everything and those depressingly dull blades. "But enough about that, I'm sure we can continue our discussion after some lunch."
"Rarity is correct. Shirou, we would be honored if you joined us for lunch." Shirou turned to Celestia who smiled gently at him. "Though I fear my cooks are not familiar with human nutrition, there should be enough options for you to find something edible to humans. If not, I can always request one of my cooks to prepare a meal for you."
"Thank you Princess Celestia, I'm grateful for your invitation to lunch." Shirou bowed to Celestia in thanks.
"Now, there's no need for such formalities. You are a friend of ours Shirou and our honored guest." Celestia couldn't help but playfully chastise Shirou at seeing him act so formally.
"Our sister is right, thou art our most honored guest, Shirou!" Luna's booming voice drew everyone's attention and slightly alarmed Shirou. "Come now let us depart for the dining hall!"
Without further words, Luna left the room fully expecting everypony else to follow her. Seeing no reason to stay behind, everypony followed suit.
"Um, was she always this loud?" Shirou could still feel his ears ringing.
"My sister is a bit dated, and still uses what we call the Royal Canterlot voice." Celestia was glad to have her sister back but she never thought she'd be so set in the olden ways.
"It's scary," Fluttershy spoke softly, "and I really wish she'd tone it down."
"Don't worry Fluttershy, we'll help her get up to date in no time! Oh and then we throw her a 'Congrats on Getting with the Times' party!" Pinkie responded cheerfully trying to comfort Fluttershy.
The distance to the dining hall was short and the group soon arrived. Within the hall was a long table set up with an assortment of various dishes. Pinkie rushed ahead of the group as she ran to the deserts. The others seated themselves around the table taking whatever dishes lay nearby.
"Your chefs are quite talented to have made such a large quantity of high quality food, Princess Celestia." Shirou performed some structural analysis on the food, but he could already tell that these were gourmet dishes.
"I'm happy to know you think so highly of my wonderful chefs. I'll make sure to pass your compliments along to them." Celestia took her place at the head of the table, but made sure to include a spot at her side for Luna.
"Yeah these desserts are amazing!" Pinkie declared before continuing to devour the sweets. Celestia smiled, finding her eccentric behavior a nice change of pace from the usual.
"Now, I do hope you can partake in some of these dishes Shirou." Everyone else had already begun eating.
"I mentioned it to Twilight earlier, but we humans are omnivores so I should be able to eat a fair number of these vegetarian dishes." Shirou proceeded to pick a fruit salad and some vegetable soup. Noting the variety of dishes with hay and flowers in them he decided to clarify, "although I will say humans can't eat hay nor flowers."
"I see, then I will make note of it so you may be better accommodated." Celestia chose a few dishes herself and a slice of cake. Luna did the same, taking her own slice of cake as well.
"It's been far too long since we hath partaken in the sweet taste of cake!" Even now Luna continued to use her booming Royal Canterlot voice.
"Now sister, while I understand you are still used to speaking in the Royal Canterlot voice. You are among friendly company and it'd be appropriate to be more informal with them." At this Luna took stock of the fact she was only surrounded by those who her sister now considered friends. With no guards or attendants around she decided to relax a bit.
"Thou are correct dear sister. We are still finding it hard to adjust to Equestria knowing the Equestria of our past has long since gone." The others smiled at her in appreciation that she'd finally dropped the spell that caused her voice to reverberate throughout the hall. Much has changed since my time. Why must it be so difficult to learn the mannerisms of the present?
"It feels nice to not have my ears ring every time Princess Luna speaks," commented Rainbow Dash before she was given a disapproving glare from Applejack.
"Now there's no need to be rude Rainbow, I'd like to see you try and drop century old habits."
From there the group ate and chatted in content. Though there were many questions still unanswered, everypony wanted to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere while they ate. Soon enough they all had their fill and silence fell on the table.
"I hope everyony enjoyed the feast," began Celestia as the others nodded in gratitude, "but I do believe there are many matters to be settled now that we are all gathered."
"To start, I would like to reintroduce my dear sister, Princess Luna." Everypony's gaze shifted to Luna who slightly dipped her head in acknowledgement. "She and I ruled Equestria for a long time, but unfortunate circumstances led to Luna becoming Nightmare Moon. When she did, I had to banish her to the moon for a thousand years. But now she has returned, no longer as Nightmare Moon, but as my beloved little sister, Luna." Celestia raised a wing over Luna before using it to bring her into an embrace.
"I must thank all of you, for not only saving Equestria, but for also saving my sister." The smile on Celestia's face as she said this radiated with joy. No pony had ever seen such an ecstatic expression upon the Princess and were mesmerized by it. Shirou was also amazed by the beauty in that smile, but for a different reason.
How can it be? To see such a smile again, one so similar to Kiritsugu's on that fateful day. Still I don't know how they can smile like that. Much less how I can smile like them.
"Now I ask of you one more favor, please help my sister adjust to her new home. I know it might be difficult to reconcile how she appears now compared to how she was as Nightmare Moon. I can assure all of you that she means no harm and just needs some friends to help her along."
"We thank thee sister, for such wondrous praise, but we do not wish to impose on these ponies any further. We have done enough damage already and do not want to burden these ponies any further."
"Don't worry Princess Luna, we're more than happy to help you." Twilight wasn't gonna let a friend go without assistance.
"Twilight's right, we're more than happy to help you out, Princess Luna." Rarity agreed with Twilight's sentiments and couldn't pass up a chance to help a friend in need.
"Yeah!" Agreed everpony else, they were all more than willing to help Luna.
"We thank you all, truly. Thou eagerness to assist us warms our heart." Luna was teary-eyed seeing how much these ponies cared for her. Is this how it feels to be cared about?
"I too am incredibly happy that all of you are so willing to help my sister." Celestia continued to smile at her little ponies, but she did note that Shirou seemed detached from the conversation. "Can I safely presume you'll also lend your assistance, Shirou?"
"Of course your majesty, I believe it's never wrong to help others." Though his comment seemed simple, Celestia gleaned a deeper meaning in the level of conviction Shirou held in those words. She nodded in response, happy that he'd be helping out as well.
"With that matter settled, I do believe we should address the human in the room now." The spotlight shifted to Shirou as the group focused on him. "I'm sure everypony has plenty of questions for Shirou, but we should allow him to make his proper introductions first."
"I suppose I haven't properly introduced myself since you all met me while I was disguised as a pony." Shirou cleared his throat. "It's a pleasure to meet you all. My name is Emiya Shirou and I am Twilight Sparkle's Saber-class Servant. As you've heard, I'm part of the human species. Though it seems humans do not exist here, so I am probably the only human in Equestria. I may not be sure what lays ahead, but I am in your care for the foreseeable future." To conclude his introduction, Shirou even stood up and bowed.
A small silence descended upon the group as they processed Shirou's introduction. It had certainly opened a new can of worms as they had even more questions now.
"It's nice to meet you properly, darling." Rarity, ever the social mare, decided to respond first. "I may not understand everything you've said, but I am glad to have you around. You have certainly proven how helpful you are and it would be remiss of us to not respond in kind."
"Rarity's right. I don't know what a human is nor what this whole servant business is about, but I know you sure as hay can be trusted when you're needed." Applejack gave Shirou a wide, friendly smile.
"Thanks for helping us, Shirou. I think you're very kind for doing so." Fluttershy's comment briefly surprised Shirou.
When was the last time someone called me kind I wonder? Perhaps when I was back in Fuyuki as a high schooler? None of the work I've done since could be called kind. Blooding my hands to save lives, it's cruel.
"Yeah! You're super nice and you also have that really weird magic with the funny, glowing lines! You were all like 'Trace On' and then you summoned a bunch of swords! Oh! Do you think you could make party balloons like you made those swords? Or maybe even other party favors? We could throw even better parties!" Pinkie's excitement knocked Shirou out of his brief funk. The spitfire nature of hers briefly reminded him of an excited Taiga.
I think Pinkie would definitely even drive Taiga up a wall. God forbid they actually get along. Taiga does not need enabling, nor would I want to see an alcoholic pony.
"Anypony who can make a bunch of awesome swords out of thin air is pretty cool in my opinion." Rainbow decided to chime in. "So it's only fair I show you how cool I can be as well by helping you out."
"My little ponies are correct. We are more than happy to have you here in Equestria, Shirou." Celestia smiled warmly at Shirou. If anything I hope that we can help you Shirou. I can tell there is great pain in your heart.
"We too are grateful for your aid in freeing us from the mistakes of our past. We must also apologize for having hurt thee to the point of passing out." Luna bowed her head slightly to show how bad she felt about her actions against Shirou when she was Nightmare Moon.
"I hope you stick around Shirou. From what all the others have said, I really wanna see you in action myself." Spike was still disgruntled that he'd missed all the fun, but he still appreciated Shirou's presence.
"Thanks for helping us Shirou, I really am glad I summoned you." Twilight was glad that the strange spell had not only worked, but also allowed her to meet a friend like Shirou. I just hope you can see us as friends as well, Shirou.
Shirou looked at them all and was confused on how to respond to such a warm reception. He'd expected far more questions and even some distrust due to hiding what he really was. Do they really see me as a friend? How can they be so quick to accept someone who was lying to them from the moment they met? I don't think I understand these ponies at all. Yet it feels nice to be welcomed so freely here.
"I'm not sure I deserve such a warm welcome, but I will make sure to repay you all for your kindness."
"Now that you've been introduced, would you mind answering some of our questions?" asked Princess Celestia.
"Sure, your Highness." Celestia lightly shook her head at Shirou's insistence on such formalities.
"Oh! Oh! Can I go first?!" Pinkie excitedly waved her hoof to grab everypony's attention.
"Alright, Pinkie," responded Shirou with a wry smile.
"Why don't you laugh?"
The look Shirou gave Pinkie was inscrutable. Even the others were a little shocked at Pinkie's question until they realized she had a point.
"When we were in the forest with all the scary trees and I started singing you just stayed to the side. Everypony else was smiling and laughing, yet you just had that same rueful smirk." Pinkie was getting a little heated over it. "So I thought, maybe he's just shy, but then when we were in that weird place with the gears and swords I realized something. There weren't any bright colors, everything was dull and sad. The skies also felt so much worse than even the dark skies I was used to before I learned how good it feels to laugh. So Shirou, why don't you laugh?"
"Pinkie, I get that you enjoy making other ponies happy, but you don't have to try and cheer me up. I'll be fine so long as I can continue to help."
Before Pinkie could respond, Twilight cleared her throat to grab her attention. They shared a look, before Pinkie relented, trusting Twilight.
"Shirou, what was that place?" Twilight asked a simple question.
"That was my Reality Marble, Unlimited Blade Works." Shirou was glad to move on to something he was far more comfortable with. "It is my soul imposed on the world. In there I can command every aspect of the world. Due to my nature as a sword, it is filled with swords."
Everpony gasped, the idea of creating a whole world from one's soul sounded too outlandish. Yet what they had seen pointed to truth in his words. A world made from the soul of a single pony?! But how? What kind of magic could let you do such an impossible feat? I want to know more about this so badly, but I need to focus! Come on Twilight, focus! Your friend needs help and you can't let your curiosity get in the way! Plus you could always ask afterwards, right? With this final thought, Twilight took a deep breath and prepared herself for the conversation she knew was necessary to help Shirou.
"So why is it so somber in there? I've seen that world in my dreams filled with your memories." The others were confused by that statement, but let Twilight continue. "And the world we saw was more like Archer's than the one I saw when you fought him. Now why is it like that Shirou? What changed?"
Shirou stared at Twilight, he could see how determined she was to get an answer. He may not have known her for long, but he's quickly realized she can be as stubborn as Rin when she sets her mind on something.
"The day my sister died, I realized Archer was right. It's impossible to save everyone, our dream was foolish. It led him to such a wretched existence I so vehemently denied, yet I was no better. She called me a hero and told me my dream was just. Yet what good did that do? I could only hold her hand as I saw life leave her eyes. What kind of hero can't even save their own sister?"
At this admission, an oppressive air of silence fell over the ponies. They looked at Shirou's blank expression, searching for something. Yet his face remained impassive, it felt so wrong. How could somepony be so detached as they recounted the loss of someone precious?
"Shirou, is that why you cried?" Celestia asked. Shirou could see the worry and concern in her eyes.
"I'm sorry you had to see that. I never meant to lose control of my emotions." Shirou remained detached. What caused me to lose myself like that? What kind of Servant breaks down like that?
"Shirou, it's okay to cry. Crying means you cared for her. You can't bottle up your emotions and expect to keep going." Celestia knew this all too well. "Those emotions will eventually boil over and lead to worse consequences."
"Crying won't change anything. I'll be fine so long as I can continue to save people. I have to be a hero, it's what she told me to be." Shirou trembled lightly at the memory of the promise he never got to answer.
"No Shirou, she told you to promise her to be a hero who can save people like you saved her!" Twilight wasn't gonna let Shirou continue his detrimental mentality. "She told you that there is more to saving somepony than just keeping them alive."
At this comment Shirou's looked deeply into Twilight's eyes. He saw the recognition and resolve she held. Just like last time, how can she be so resolute?
"You saw it, didn't you? The day I failed to save Illya."
"Shirou she was dying and she knew there was nothing anypony could've done. She made it clear you had already saved her. I might not know how, but I could see it in her eyes, the light that shone as she held you. She loved you Shirou and she was happy to have had you as a brother to her dying breath."
"Why? Why do you all insist that I saved her? What part of her dying means I saved her?!"
"The part where she died with a smile."
Shirou froze, stunned by an answer he never considered.
"A smile?"
"Shirou you let your self-loathing blind you to her smile. When she held you in her final moments she smiled. She was as content as she could be just to have you there. The promise she wanted you to make was for your sake Shirou. She wanted to save you from yourself."
"What?" Shirou's confusion only grew. "What do you mean save me from myself?"
"Shirou have even heard yourself speak? You kept mentioning how Archer was right. Where is the Shirou that stood diametrically opposed to Archer? If Archer is another version of you then aren't you letting him condemn you just as he was?"
"How can I deny Archer when I've failed to be the Hero he also gave up on being? I may hate him, but I've come to see how alike we really are."
"No Shirou, you've only deluded yourself. The grief you bottled up and denied has already begun to consume you. It's grown to the point that you've lost sight of yourself and can only see the bloody path Archer carved." Twilight approached Shirou, not content to just argue with him. "Just as Princess Celestia said, your locked up emotions are only leading to a worse outcome. And as your friend I refuse to let you continue down such a path. The one carved by Archer is not yours."
Before Shirou could rebuke her, Twilight reached Shirou and embraced him. She held onto him tightly and he knew he wouldn't be able to pry her off without hurting her.
"Shirou, I will see to it that you keep your promise to Illya. I vow this, not as your master, but as your friend. I truly mean it, and I won't let you make a hollow promise like the last one." At this, Shirou stiffened. He knew he hadn't been completely honest with his previous promise to Twilight. "I bet you didn't think you'd be here for long did you, you idiot?"
Twilight couldn't help but laugh at the fact Shirou had made such a faulty promise. To Shirou, that laugh sounded so wonderful. He felt the front he'd been putting on as her Servant falter.
"I don't understand you ponies. I don't even know why I cried in front of all of you." Shirou no longer intended to push Twilight away. "I feel so out of depth here. I told you I'd try, but I won't let my dream go."
"I know you idiot, but this time I won't let you just wave it off. You aren't just a Servant or passing acquaintance. I promised to accept you fully and I intend to keep that promise. What I want from you is to find the path Illya saw."
"What if I can't?"
"Then I'll just have to help you look harder. We are friends Shirou, that means we'll always be there for each other."
"You'll really help me? After my half-baked promise?"
"Yes, because I know that deep down you meant it. You've just been sabotaging yourself this whole time because you couldn't address the real issue. That you weren't properly grieving. You never had a resolution to your loss. You let it consume you and pretended to be fine."
"I really am an idiot then. If even you could see it then I must've really blinded myself to those feelings." He raised his arms and returned Twilight's embrace. She felt so nice and warm. Her scent filled his nose and he could feel his heart calm down. "What do I do now?"
"You need to let yourself process your feelings. We'll be here for you as you do. So don't be afraid to cry, Shirou." Twilight could feel a light wetness near her withers where Shirou's head lay.
"I think I get it now, heh, it just took getting summoned by a pony. Illya would've had a field day finding out about this." He spoke while tears rolled down his cheeks and onto Twilight's coat. "I wish you could've met her. She needed more friends after spending so much time alone."
"She would've been a wonderful friend, but she did have a great brother by her side at least."
"Heh, I don't know if I'll ever feel the same as she did about my role. But if I was a fraction of the brother that she thought I was, then maybe I didn't do so bad."
As Shirou and Twilight shared an intimate moment the others began to feel a bit awkward standing on the sidelines. So they remained quiet and let the two enjoy the moment. Celestia was amused to see her student has grown so much so quickly. She's come a long way from the shy little filly who preferred the company of books to that of her fellow ponies. To understand and help someone hurting as deeply as Shirou is a great feat.
"So, do you promise to find that path, Shirou?" Twilight had waited till Shirou's tears petered out.
"Yeah, I promise and this time I mean it. I swear by the love I hold for Illya and as your friend. But I am not too bright at times, so can I ask you to help me if I ever lose myself again?"
"Of course Shirou, I'll always be here for you. I know the others will also be more than happy to help. I'm not your only friend after all." Twilight loosened her hold on Shirou and pulled away enough to be face-to-face with him. "I don't want my Shirou to become an Archer either. So you best believe we'll find your true path."
"I believe you. I was a fool to ever think becoming Archer was the only thing left for me." The smile that dawned on Shirou's face was bright and Twilight felt immense joy at having caused it. "Also, your Shirou huh?"
"You are my Servant so it means you're my Shirou." Twilight tried her best to stifle the growing crimson color on her cheeks.
Shirou let out a small laugh at that. He could clearly see the red that now permeated her cheeks.
"Aha! So you can laugh!" Pinkie's shout caught the others by surprise.
"What are you talking about Pinkie? I just smiled." Shirou quickly denied.
"You're not fooling me, mister! My ears are trained to catch even the faintest laugh!"
"Well then you should get your ears-" Twilight shut Shirou up with a hoof.
"Stop messing with her, Shirou. What happened to being better?"
"Baby steps?"
"You're not a foal."
"Okay, maybe I was wrong and being a tad smarmy is just a Shirou thing."
"Well stop being smarmy when your friends are just concerned about you."
"Yes ma'am."
"Good," responded Twilight in satisfaction.
With that, both released their embrace. The atmosphere of the room returned to normal as the tension vanished.
"Wow, both of you really got heated back there." Rainbow Dash's comment once again drew disapproving looks. "What? You were all thinking the same!"
"It doesn't mean we have to be rude about it." Applejack shook her head at Rainbow's brusque mannerisms.
"Rainbow's impoliteness aside, Twilight has a point darling. We are all more than willing to help you. We very much consider you to be our friend." The others nodded in agreement with Rarity's comment.
"You ponies really are too friendly, but I suppose that just means I have to get used to that aspect of Equestria."
"Indeed you will. My little ponies have always been a friendly bunch and I hold great pride in that." Celestia smiled gently. "As for your question about why you cried into my wing a while back. It seems the use of the Elements of Harmony within your soul affected you greatly. It was thanks to them you were able to begin coming to your senses. Twilight's push just ensured you wouldn't relapse. Well done my dear student."
"I just did what a friend should do." Twilight's flushed a little at being complimented by Celestia.
"I see, those Elements really are something else. I don't think I've ever seen anything like them back on Earth." Shirou made a mental note to look into them more. It isn't everyday I encounter such powerful relics. Maybe they're the equivalent of this world's Noble Phantasms?
"Indeed they are, for it is through them our own purification was possible." Luna had never expected to see such a scene unfold before her. Now she was still trying to wrap her own mind around the events that just took place. "We may not have a complete idea of what ailed thee, but we hope to befriend thee as well."
"I think I can accept another friend while I'm at it. I'd be grateful to count royalty such as yourself amongst my friends." Shirou found it amusing to have met so many royals from Arturia to the Princesses.
"Then it shall be so! We are overjoyed to gain thine friendship."
"You know Shirou, there are still probably questions the others want to ask you." At Twilight's reminder, Shirou realized he did promise to answer their questions.
"Oh right, my bad. If anyone has questions they still want to ask then I would be happy to answer."
"I have one!" Rainbow was the first to ask this time. "What's a Servant? You said you were some kind of sword I think? It sounds kinda cool so what is it?"
"First off I said I was Saber-class. A Servant is a being summoned, usually from the Throne of Heroes, to serve a Master in fighting to win a grail that can grant a wish. The main issue here is that I haven't felt anything resembling said grail. Nor am I from the Throne of Heroes. Normally if I were from there, my class would be the container the grail would place me in. It'd restrict the heroic spirit to only the abilities of their legend that best represented that class. I do find it weird that I have a class but none of its benefits or drawbacks."
"Where are ya from? Like what kinda place did ya call home before coming to Equestria?" Applejack was quite curious about Shirou's origins.
"I used to live with a friend in the city of London. She's studying at an institution there for Magi called the Clocktower. Before that I lived in the smaller city of Fuyuki. I still have the home my father left me there."
"Did you have any pets?" Even Fluttershy couldn't contain her curiosity now that the tension was gone.
"No, though I did occasionally feed the local cats and dogs that would sometimes wander onto our property. Illya was more of a cat person and had wanted to adopt one, but unfortunately that never happened."
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to bring up further painful memories."
"It's alright Fluttershy. It's getting easier now to speak about her. Twilight and Celestia were right, getting these emotions off my chest is helping."
"That's good. If you ever want to relax and spend some time with my animal friends, you're more than welcome to visit my cottage."
"Thank you Fluttershy, it'd be nice to meet your friends." The smile Fluttershy gave Shirou made him think of how innocently precious she was. How can anyone be so adorable?
"You're also welcome to our farm anytime, Shirou! Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith would sure as hay be happy to see ya again."
"You gotta drop by Sugarcube Corner too! Mr. and Mrs. Cake make some of the best sweets around!"
"Oh! You gotta see me practice my flying. There's this really cool place with an awesome airspace for trying out all sorts of stunts."
"Don't forget to drop by my boutique for a new wardrobe darling. I just can't wait to start working on it, it'll be a foray into making non-pony clothes. I can already think of some inspirations to use."
"I really appreciate all your invitations and I'll make sure to visit each of you whenever I can. But I'm still Twilight's Servant so I don't know when we'll be able to go back to Ponyville."
"Worry not Shirou, and the both of you as well Twilight and Spike." Celestia had seen how sad they'd grown to the idea of not being able to see their new friends regularly. "I will be appointing Twilight to the Golden Oaks Library where she will learn about the Magic of Friendship. I expect you and Spike to tag along and learn with her. I feel you would benefit greatly from some friendship lessons."
"Thank you, Princess!" All three of them answered in unison.
With that royal decree uplifting the mood, the group spent the rest of the time asking Shirou all sorts of questions and generally chatting. Shirou did his best to answer and even asked his own questions in return. Overall they all grew to know each other better and in turn grew closer.
That day laughter and joyous conversations could be heard originating from the dining hall. The Royal Sisters had been reunited and their new friends had already overcome the first major hurdle in their budding friendship. They still made plans for a party to celebrate later that night. For now they can take sometime just chat and wind down.