The Roles We Play

by Bolt Magnet

Rating: teen
Tags: Sex, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance, Original Character, Gilda, Slice of Life
Length: 11504

We all have a role to play. Whether we like it or not.

My name is Spirit Bolt.

I'm not special. I'm not unique. I'm not even sure why you're here...

But, here you are. What do ya wanna know my story for anyway? Off-hoof, I can think of at least half a dozen ponies who are way more interesting then me...

What? No, I wasn't gonna say 'The Bearers'... geez, how cheap do you think I am?

On seconds thought, don't answer that... sorry, where was I? Oh, right. My story....

You ever hear the expression: 'everypony has a sob story'?

Well, this is mine.

A/N: Cover Art for this fiction can be found HERE, drawn by my good friend Gutovi-kun. Who you should also check out, just cause.

Published 2013-09-01 15:20:02 UTC
Last updated 2013-09-01 15:20:02 UTC

My Story.

Twin-kle twinkle, little star. How I won-der how much you cost.
Cause I need. To. Go. Now.
I. Need. Out. Now...

Fear.

My heart raced in my chest. I was afraid. Actually, I was terrified. If it weren’t for the fact that my bladder was already empty, I’m sure I would’ve wet myself.

Everything was blurry, and out of focus. Like a red filer had been placed over everything. I panted as I struggled against my unseen restraints. I was splayed out like an X. Sweat trickled down my forehead.

The Griffin in front of me grinned, revealing razor sharp teeth. I couldn’t see her face, it was just black, all of her features were black. Except her eyes and her mouth, those were blood red.

I squirmed to get free, “Please, just let me go!”

“Shut up!” She roared, as she slammed her clenched claw into my stomach.

I cried out as the wind was knocked out of me. My stomach burned. It felt like the worst tummy ache I had ever had. Tears welled in my eyes.

She grabbed my mane with her right claw. I yelped as she yanked my head back.

Tears spilled down my face, “P-please, I’m sorry…” I whimpered.

The Griffin grinned smugly, “Too late for that, bitch,” She punched me again.

I coughed, and gaged. My insides felt like they were being twisted around while they were being set on fire. I cried.

She jerked my head back, so I was looking directly at her.

She held up three talons. My eyes widened, “P-please, y-you don’t have t-to do this.”

She pressed the tips of her talons against the right side of my forehead. I tried to lean away from her, but my head was blocked by the brick wall behind me.

“W-what are you doing?” I cried.

“Teaching you a lesson.”

She methodically sliced her claws down my face.

“NNNNNNOOOOOOOOO!” I jerked awake. Heart pounding, panting and covered in sweat.

A dream.

It was just a dream.

I shuddered, rocking back and forth. I sobbed. Damn it! I thought I was past this...

I jumped when I heard knocking on my bedroom door, “Spiri? You right?” A gruff, and muffled voice asked.

I swallowed, and tried to calm myself, “Y-yeah, I’m good…” I croaked.

I watched the shadow underneath the door shift in place, “Alright. If you need anything, let me know. Okay kiddo?”

“I-I will, thanks Mac.”

The shadow disappeared. I wiped the tears from my face, and checked the clock on my bedside table.

5:24am

I groaned, Well, I’m not getting back to sleep now, I thought as threw my saturated bed sheets off, and climbed out of bed. I crossed the room, and entered the small bathroom near the foot of my bed. The basin and mirror I was looking for was in the right hoof corner, with a shower taking up the left side of the room, and a toilet directly opposite the basin.

I stepped up to the basin, and turned on the tap. I feel better – and more awake – after a few splashes of ice cold water on my face. I dried my face, and stared at the mirror in front of me. From behind her dishevelled, dark emerald mane, the purple mare staring back at me looked tired, and worn out.

Her scruffy mane covered the right half of her face, leaving only one brilliant pink eye staring back at me. I gently reached up and smoothed down my mane as much as I could. When it didn’t look like a complete rats nest, I swept and tucked it back, behind my ear.

I stared at the mare before me.

I felt empty, and disconnected as I stared at the husk her right eye. Not brilliant and beautiful like the other one: Grey, dull, and lifeless. Complemented by the three vertical scars that ran over it.

I frowned at her, at how ugly she was, “Who the hell would ever love you?” I asked her.

She stared back at me, with that same stupid look on her face.

I scoffed, “Don’t give me that look, you had it coming.”

“Why?” She asked.

I blinked, “What do you mean, ‘why’? Because you’re an idiot, that’s why!”

I shook my head, with gritted teeth, “If you just kept you big-damned-mouth shut none of this would have happened!”

I lowered my head as tears welled in my eyes, I could feel my body starting to tremble as I stared up at her again. My breathing was harsh as I glared at her with contempt, “I hate you, so much. You stupid little girl.”

Tears spilled down her face as she stared at me, horrified.

My mouth twisted down into a scowl at the sight of her stupid fucking face. I turned away, I couldn’t bear to look at her any longer. I wiped the tears from my face, choking on half-sobs, I sniffled.

I coughed as I tried to calm myself, I had better things to do with my time then to wallow in… whatever the hell I was wallowing in right now.

I took a deep breath, and composed myself. I stepped out into the dimly lit hallway of the cloud house. Aesthetically, the interior of our house looked like any house you’d find ground-side. 'Cept everything was made out of clouds. But that didn’t mean it looked like clouds. The ponies who build the house put a lot of effort into their craft. The floor beneath my hooves looked – and felt – like timber floor boarding, the only difference being that it was white. The walls looked like the type of typical dry-wall you’d find in any house.

I made my way down the hallway, towards the small staircase that led to the first floor. I descended the stairs, and ended up in another small hallway. To the left, were rooms for the laundry, bathroom and lounge room. To the right was a small opening that held the kitchen, just past the kitchen was the front door.

I turned and walked towards the kitchen. It was small, yet homey. On the left side of the kitchen was the actual ‘kitchen’ area. Opposite the kitchen, on the right was a tiled area that was technically still part of the kitchen – but we just used it as the dining area.

I stopped. Mac was waiting for me waiting for me at the wooden looking table. He was a burly, dark brown Pegasus stallion – but then he had to be, he worked as a security guard, he usually worked the nights shifts, so I didn’t get to see him that much during the week. He wasn’t wearing his uniform, instead he had just pulled on one of his worn flannelette shirts. He had that look, the look that said, ‘we need to talk, and that wasn’t a request’. Silently, I crossed over to the table, and took a seat opposite him.

“Spiri,” He began, “You know you can talk to me, right?” I could see the worry is in deep green eyes.

I sighed, not meeting his eyes, “Yeah, I do.”

“So…?” He prompted.

I fidgeted with my hoofs, “I don’t know…”

“You’re still having nightmares. Do you wanna talk about it?”

“Not really…”

He sighed, “Spiri, it’s been months-”

“Three months, twelve days and seven hours,” I interjected.

I glanced up at him briefly, he softened his gaze as he stared back at me, I cast my eyes to the table again.

“I know it’s hard for you, but they caught the Griffin responsible. She can’t hurt you now.”

“Yeah, I know. It just…” I shook my head.

“I know it sucks, kiddo. But things will get better, trust me. You know how the old saying goes: when life gives you lemons…”

“Yeah, yeah. Make lemonade,” I frowned, “I just wish life’d give something else once in a while, you know?”

He furrowed his brow sympathetically, “Yeah, I know.” He got up from his seat, and walked around the table to me, he wrapped his hooves around me. I leaned into his embrace.

“I’m here for you, whenever you need me.”

I closed my as I squeezed him, “I know.”

“Love you, kiddo.”

I smiled with a huff, “I love you too, Mac.”

Cloudsdale High School.

Contrary to popular belief, Cloudsdale is actually a big city. Maybe not as big as… say, Manehatten, but still pretty big. Which is actually pretty interesting, considering that Cloudsdale High is the only high school in the entire city. Not many ponies actually realise it, but Cloudsdale is actually split into three primary districts.

The Residential District accommodates the High School, and all of the cloud houses in Cloudsdale. You can find cheap motels and apartments in the other Districts, but those are mainly for tourists.

The second District is the Factory District. As the name would imply, it’s where all the factories are housed. You know – things like, the Rainbow Factory, where they make Rainbows, AND NOTHING ELSE. I’ve heard about those rumours, and I’ll tell ya right now, they’re JUST RUMOURS. It’s also where Cloudsdale makes rain clouds, regular clouds, snowflakes and other things.

The final District is the Recreational District: it has all of the adult stuff that I shouldn’t know about, but still totally do anyway, like bars, pubs, brothels. You know – that’s also where the Cloudsdale Colosseum is, I’m sure you know about that – it’s just as Equestrian renown as Rainbow Dash…

…

You don’t know who Rainbow Dash is? What, are you serious? Have you been living under a rock?! Rainbow Dash. She’s no big deal, she’s just THE ONLY PEGASUS EVER TO PREFORM THE SONIC RAINBOOM. Every Pegasus worth their salt knows about Rainbow Dash. How have you guys not heard of her? Oh, that’s right, you’re not from ‘round here. Sorry, I keep forgetting that… dammit, now I done gone and lost me train of thought. Where was I? Oh, right! Cloudsdale High.

The cloud that the building was carved from was tailored to look like brickwork. Ponies bustled around the entrance of the building, killing time until school start. I adjusted my saddlebags, and kept my head down as I entered the building. I got a few glances and murmurs as I passed some of the ponies there, nothing I wasn’t used to by now.

When it happened… when I was attacked, pretty much everypony in the school – along with half of Cloudsdale – heard about it. In my first few weeks back at school, most ponies seemed genuinely concerned for me. And, honestly? It was nice – having ponies worry about me. Although, after a while, it became old news, and everything just went back to the way it was.

The entrance of the school gave way to a long hallway, halfway down the hall was an intersection that branched off onto other halls. Either side of the hallway, were lockers between the doors that opened into classrooms.

My locker was just past the intersection, on the left hoof side. All around me, the hall was buzzing with the near deafening chatter of students. I made it to my locker, and used the three-digit code it unlock it. I shrugged off my saddle bags, and loaded it with the books I’d need for my morning subjects: I had Math and Equestrian up first, and while I really enjoyed Equestrian… I wasn’t that keen on Maths.

I donned my saddlebags and closed my locker. I jumped at the sight of the Unicorn stallion who emerged from behind my previously open locker door. His coat was completely black, save for the light blue spot on his nose. His short and spiky mane was purple, with pink highlights on the tips. His eyes were a dark teal colour, with lines that crossed through his pupils and iris’ alike.

He grinned smugly through half-lidded eyes, “Have you accepted my offer yet?” he asked.

I quirked an eyebrow, “What offer?”

“To be my girlfrien,” he breathed.

“Girlfrien…” I furrowed my brow, “You forgot the d.”

He beamed, “Oh, don’t worry baby. You’ll get that later.”

“Charming as always, Morgan,” I deadpanned.

He laughed, “You know you love it.”

I shook my head with a smile, “Yeah, I love it so much,” I droned.

He polished his hoof on his chest, “Yeah, I know. So just do it you fag.”

I rolled my eye, “Fine, Morgan. I’ll be your girfrien.”

He pumped his hoof, “Yes! So, we gonna bang now, or…?”

I furrowed my brow with a look of incomprehensibly, “Wha- no. We’re not gonna ‘bang’ now, you have to buy me dinner first.”

He blinked, “Seriously?”

I nodded, “Yup, that’s the way it works.”

He blew out a long sigh, “Fuuuuuuuuuuuck that! That sounds like way too much effort. I’m sorry Spiri, but we have to break this off.”

I stared at him, blankly.

He rubbed the back of his neck, “Let’s be honest, babe. It’s not me, it’s you.”

I tiled my head, and narrowed my eye as my mouth fell open.

He shrugged casually, “I’m not saying it was your fault, Spiri. I’m just saying you could have done more.”

I shook my head, and chuckled, “Wow, I’m impressed.” I held up my hoof and pretended to look at my wrist watch – which I didn’t have, “You lasted a whole… five minute that time. That’s a new record.”

He puffed out his chest, “Yeah, well, that’s me. Always raising the bar.”

I shook my head with a smile, “So, you heading to class?”

“Nah, I was just gonna sit in this spot all day…”

“Alright smartarse. You wanna head there now?”

“Sure,” he nodded.

Morgan and I walked down the hall towards our first class of the day, talking about nothing in particular.

Morgan Blackmare. What can I say about him?

No, really? Where do I even begin… Well, he’s my best mate. Actually, he’s my only mate. We both moved to Cloudsdale form Tall Tale when we were younger, although I didn’t meet him till much later. I’ve known him pretty much all of my teenage life. We kinda have this flirtationship going where he’ll try to get under my tail, and I’ll shoot him down, then we laugh about it. Truthfully though, I don’t know if he really means it or not. I haven’t really given much thought about his feelings, I mean, he hasn’t even tried to make a serious move at me. I’m glad for that, I am: I love Morgan like a brother. Still, part of me wants more...

I briefly spared a glance at his cutie mark, it suited him: a white piece of parchment, partially rolled up at either end. It was not secret that Morgan was a god when it came to grammar and punctuation, most of the time if I needed something double checked, I’d just go to him. He’s way smarter then he looks, or lets on for that matter – but whatever you do, do not let him win an argument. Cause if he does that, I can guarantee that he’ll never let you hear the bloody end of it!

I mean, I love him. But he can be a self-righteous prick sometimes.

I don’t know why, but thinking about cutie marks made me glance back at my own. I’m not sure how I felt about it. I mean, cutie marks are supposed to be your special talent – that one thing that makes you different, and unique. My cutie mark was a dark blue lightning bolt, with a smaller, light blue streak traveling down the centre of it.

I got it when I was still just a filly. It was during the summer sports carnival in primary school, I was in the last position for pretty much the whole race. It was the last lap, we were coming up on the finish line, I knew I was gonna lose – I was never very athletic. And then, the weirdest thing happened. I looked over at the side-lines, and saw Mac. He wasn’t disappointed, or angry like I thought he would be – he was smiling, like he was proud of me for just getting in there and giving it a go.

It was at that moment, that I realised that I had to win. I wanted to win. I wanted it more than anything else in the world. I beat my wings as hard as I could – I was already tired form the race, but I didn’t care. I kept pushing until all of my muscles screamed out in agony.

I don’t really remember what happened next. I remember my vision tunneling, and going blue. I heard crackling, like the sound of static electricity just before I blacked out. When I came to, Mac – as well as some paramedic ponies, and teachers – were all huddled around me. After they checked me out, and made sure I was okay, they told me I had won the race.

I couldn’t believe it. I should have been ecstatic! But, all I could manage was, “How?”

They tried to explain to me what they think happened as best they could, but I was too young to understand. Hell, I still don’t understand. Far as I can tell: I was at the back of the race, then something happened, and I jumped to first place.

Realisation didn’t really set in for me, until they gave me the gold medal. That’s when it all became real. I was so happy, I beamed at Mac as I showed off my prize. His smile was almost as wide as mine, but he wasn’t looking at my medal. When I asked him what he was looking at, he just point behind me. I turned, and that was when I saw them: two lightning bolts adorning my flanks.

I didn’t even know what to say. Wordlessly, I stared up at Mac. I hugged him as bawled my eyes out. He embraced me and whispered, “I’m so proud of you.”

That was easily the best day of my life.

In hindsight, I shouldn’t have spent so much time reminiscing, or not watching where I was going. I collided with a white Pegasus mare, knocking her onto her flank. I was knocked into Morgan.

The white Pegasus mare glared at me as her pink friend helped her to her hooves, “Hey! Watch it, scarface!”

“S-sorry,” I muttered, not meeting her eyes.

Once she was standing again, she and her friend huffed as they stormed past me, “Watch where you’re going next time, idiot!”

I sighed as they pushed past me, I pushed off Morgan and steadied myself.

I felt Morgan’s hoof on my shoulder, “Spiri, you right?”

I shrugged him off, “Yeah, I’m good.”

“Hey, don’t worry about them.”

“Yeah…”

“Look at the bright side; at least scarface is an improvement from Cyclops.”

I turned, and glared at him, “How the hell is that an improvement?”

He shrugged, “Well, Cyclops implies that you only had on eye to begin with. Now, I know you suck maths, but generally speaking two is better than one.”

I narrowed my eye, “You’re not helping.”

He smirked, “Oh, I never said I would help, I just said it was an improvement.”

I frowned, “Yeah, thanks. I feel so much better…”

“Spiri, is that sarcasm I detect?”

I stared at him blankly, “No, I’m always this grouchy.”

He grinned mischievously, “Sounds to me like you’re all tense. I can fix that.”

I gasped dramatically, “You fiend! Trying to take advantage of a helpless mare like myself? And in her time of need, no less…”

He didn’t miss a beat, “Yeah, pretty much. You wanna bang now or later?”

I scoffed, “You, are amazing.”

“Yeah, I know.”

I facehoofed.

“Hey,” His voice took a softer tone, “Seriously, are you okay?”

I nodded, “Yeah, I’m better now. Thanks Morgan.”

He smiled, “Anytime, it’s what I do.”

The school bell for first class rang, the chatter in the building died only slightly as everypony began making their way to class.

I turned back to Morgan, “Well, I guess we better go.”

He bowed, “Lead the way, milady.”

I rolled my eye, Morgan could be so random sometimes.

Morgan and I stayed back after school. We usually spend our afternoons in the Library, studying – or in my case pretending to study – or reading books. The Cloudsdale State High Library is one of the biggest in Equestria, and as such is open to the general public. I hear that the Canterlot National Library is way bigger, but I bet Cloudsdale could give it a run for its money.

Rows upon rows of shelves lined the building, with gaps just wide enough for a pony to walk down. The first floor – where Morgan and I found ourselves – was the main area, with desks for studying and beanbags for reading on. The second floor was kinda like the first floor, 'cept with more bookshelves and no recreational areas.

Morgan was sitting at a study desk, hard at work studying – or writing one of his many stories that he won’t let me read, for some reason…

I, on the other hoof, was comfortably plopped on a beanbag, enjoying Daring Do and the Curse of the Canterlot Mansion.

We were situated in one of the little study hovels on the first floor, in the south-east corner of the building, I think.

Morgan set down his pencil, and glanced at me quizzically, “What are you reading?”

“Daring Do,” I replied absently.

He furrowed his brow, “You know that’s for foals, right?”

“I don’t care. They’re amazing.”

He shook his head, “Spiri, why are we even friends?”

“'Casue I’m awesome.”

He scoffed.

I quirked an eyebrow at him, “You question my epicosity?”

“Yeah, pretty much,” He deadpanned.

I narrowed my eye at him, “I will have you know, good sir, that I am quite awesome.”

He half-held up his hoof, and rocked it left and right, “Eh, you’re alright.”

“Alright?”

“Well, if I’m honest… you’re okay.”

I shook my head, and returned my attention to my book. Oh, Daring Do, at least you can’t judge me. Morgan craned his neck, and glance around to Library.

“We’ve been here a while, I think we should head off.”

I glanced up at him, “We haven’t been here that long-”

And then, almost as if on cue, the public announcement system fired up.

“Attention everypony. The Library will be closing in five minutes time, please make your way to the nearest exit. Thank you.”

Morgan glared at me, I grinned sheepishly as I tried to hide behind my book.

Morgan and I stepped outside, we were immediately met with a bombardment of crisp night air. It had to be at least seven o’clock at night, the servicestallions were already lighting the lanterns that lined the streets of the city.

“Damn, we really let it get away from us that time.”

“Yeah, no kidding,” I agreed.

Morgan glanced back at me, “Hey, you don’t have your saddlebags?”

“Yeah, I left them at school. We got a couple of spares tomorrow, so I figured it wasn’t worth taking ‘em home with me.”

“Oh, fair enough. Well, I guess I’ll catch ya later.”

“Yeah, see ya mate.”

I watched him trot down the Library steps, and turn right onto the main street. This late at night, most ponies were already in doors, I spared him one last glance before I unfurled my wings, and took to the sky.

I honestly don’t know how Morgan manages to get around without wings, they just seem to make travel… easier. I know Unicorns can do that teleport thing, which would be pretty cool – but if you want my opinion? You just can’t beat good old fashioned wing-power.

The cool night air ruffled my mane and coat as I soared through the night sky. Hopefully Mac won’t be home yet, he’d pitch a fit if he found out I stayed out this late. The city of Cloudsdale pasted beneath me in a blur of white and grey as I sped towards the Residential District. I wasn’t even traveling that fast, I was just cruising. As I saw out street rapidly approaching, I slowed myself down, and lowered my altitude. I was souring just a few feet from the footpath as I made my way down the street. I spotted our house, it was about half-way down the street, on the left hoof side. It looked practically identical to every other house on the block.

I landed on the footpath leading to the front door. I couldn’t see any lights on, Mac must’ve still been at work. I just stared at the house, I don’t know why, but for some reason I had to overwhelming urge not to go in. Maybe it was because I had never stayed out this late on a weeknight before. Or, maybe it was because Mac wasn’t there to tell me not to.

I don’t know, whatever the reason, it was there. I glanced down either way of the silent street, my only companion was the dull street lamps as they partially illuminated the block. Once I knew I was alone, I unfurled my wings again, and took to the sky.

I didn’t know where I was going, or what I was doing. I’m kinda prone to stupid ideas like that. But at that moment, I didn’t care. I beat my wings as hard as I could, and relished the felling of breeze on my face. I felt amazing. I’m not sure I can describe it to you.

It’s kinda like… well…

Freedom.

Pure, unadulterated freedom.

You now, it’d be way easier if you guys were Pegasai, then you’d know what I what I meant by freedom. But one cannot always have what one desires – so I’ll do my best to try and explain it to you...

When you’re out there, sailing through the sky. Nopony can hold you back, the world is literally your oyster. You can go anywhere. You can do anything. You feel high off life, and deadly focused at the same time.

It’s pretty much hoofs down the best feeling in the world. Well, 'cept maybe for banging. But I wouldn’t know about that.

I came back to my senses, and landed on the first cloud I could see. It was a rather large cumulus cloud, although the glow of the full moon gave it a kind of grey complexion. I turned. In my trance – or stupor – I had somehow flown outside the cities limits. From where I stood, I could see the entire city of Cloudsdale.

I could see the factories spewing out steam on the highest level of the city, as they worked hard all through the night. I could see some of the cloud homes of the Residential District, on the lowest level on the city. I could even see the Colosseum, on the outskirts of the city.

I fell onto my haunches, and just stared at it. I watched as water and liquid rainbows poured off the edges of the city. I watched the cloud foundation twirl, and twist with the breeze. To say I was gobsmacked, would be an understatement.

I was completely entranced.

That is, until I heard the sound of ruffling beside me. I turned, and jumped so bad that I damn near fell off my cloud. A grey Pegasus pony sat beside me, the pony was only a few feet from me and was staring wistfully at Cloudsdale.

After my heart had unstuck itself from my throat, I calmed myself, and sat back down. The pony just kept staring at Cloudsdale, I glanced around nervously, where did this pony even come from? After a few minutes of awkward silence – well, awkward for me – I began to question whether or not if the grey pony was real.

Until she spoke.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” She asked, not taking her eyes off Cloudsdale.

I blinked, “Y-yeah, sure…”

She turned to face, smiling brightly, and gazing at me with kind golden eyes. She offered her hoof to me, “Ditzy Doo.”

I swallowed, and took her hoof, “S-Spirit Bolt. Pleased to meet you, Miss Doo-”

“Please, call me Ditzy,” She smiled.

“O-okay, Ditzy…” I lowered my hoof, she did the same. I pawed the cloud nervously. Have I ever mentioned that I’m not a very outgoing pony? Cause I’m not. And as such I find it really hard to strike up a conversation with a random pony that I just met. Sure, Morgan and I get along like two peas in a pod – but I’ve known him for years.

“So,” I began, “W-what brings you here, Ditzy?” It felt especially awkward referring to an adult by their first name. Mac taught me to always address your elders by either Sir or Ma’am, as a sign of respect.

“Just enjoying the night air,” She replied, glancing at the emptiness around us. She glanced back at me, “Why? What brings you here, Spirit?”

I glanced at the cloud, “Oh, I don’t know… I just kinda rocked up here… I mean, it’s not I was planning it or anything…”

She covered her mouth with her hoof, to stifle a giggle.

My mouth fell open as I cocked my head,”Uh… i-is something funny?”

She shook her head, “I was just enjoying your accent.”

I quirked an eyebrow, “What accent?”

She smiled, “That accent.”

I blinked, “Y-yeah, right-o…”

“Where are you from, Spirit?”

“U-um. Tall Tale, originally. I live in Cloudsdale though.”

“I’m form Ponyville, myself,” she announced.

“Really?” I was genuinely curious, “I’ve never been there before.”

She quirked an eyebrow, “Really?”

I nodded, and glanced back at Cloudsdale, “Um, not to sound rude or anything. But aren’t you a ways from home, Miss?”

She cocked her head, “What do you mean?”

My wings fidgeted, “Well… it’s just that, Ponyville is a fair way from Cloudsdale, isn’t? I mean, it seems you’ve come a ways just to enjoy the night.”

She smiled, “Spirit, where do you think we are right now?”

I blinked, “Just outside Cloudsdale.”

Her smile widened, “Yes, we are outside of Cloudsdale. Although, I think you’ve come a bit further than you think.”

I furrowed my brow in confusion. She nodded over the edge of the cloud. Curiously, I made my way to the edge, and peaked over. I saw a giant, circular building directly beneath us. Stretching out from the roundhouse were other wooden houses with straw roofs of all shapes and sizes. The streets between the houses were made from what looked like cobblestone, iron streetlamps littered the town, illuminating its features with dull candlelight.

I whipped my attention back to Ditzy. My eyes were wide as I stared at her, “Wh- wh- wh-”

She giggled, “As you so elegantly put it – ‘you are a ways from home’, Spirit.

I fell onto my haunches, dumbfounded. I glanced between Ditzy and Cloudsdale, “How far away is Cloudsdale from here?”

“Short enough to fly without a carriage. Although it would have been quite a trip for somepony your age.”

“I didn’t even notice…” I mused. Realisation hit me like a freight train, “Sweet merciful Celestia. Mac is gonna kill me.”

“Mac?” Ditzy questioned.

“Macadamia, my Uncle.”

She smirked at me, “Forget about your Uncle, what would your parents think?”

I frowned, and slumped my shoulder, “I don’t think they’d mind too much, they're gone. House fire. I was just a foal.”

He face fell immediately, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t know.”

“It’s fine. It was a long time ago, and I’m kinda over it, you know?”

She sighed, “Yes, I do. They say that time heals all wounds, well except for these crazy eyes,” She half-grinned.

I frowned, “Crazy eyes?”

She nodded, “I’m wall-eyed, dear.”

I glanced between her eyes – both of which were looking directly at me, “Um, y-you don’t look wall-eyed, if you don’t mind me saying so.”

She chuckled lightly, “No, I suppose I don’t, do I?”

I quirked an eyebrow, Oh-kay. You could’ve told me she was a crazy pony…

She fixed me with kind smiled, “I am not a crazy pony.”

My mouth fell open, “Wha- I-I didn’t say…”

“No,” she chuckled, “But you had that look about you.”

“Oh…” I relaxed,phew dodged an arrow there… “So,” I began, “How come you say you’re wall-eyed, when you’re not?”

“Because I’m a night dweller, dear.”

Oh, am I supposed to know what that is? “What does that mean?”

“It means that I am a follower of Luna.”

I cocked my head, “You don’t serve all The Princesses?”

She shook her head, “I never said that, I said I am a follower of Luna. Of course I serve The Princesses and the Empire alike – however, everypony has a Princess they prefer: some follow Celestia, some Follow Cadence, and some follow Luna. I Follow Luna.”

I furrowed my brow, still not quite comprehending this whole ‘favourite Princess’ thing. Ditzy elaborated, “Ever since I was a filly, I have loved the night. It offered me solace from the harshness I used to endure during the day,” she frowned briefly, “Children can be so cruel to each other.”

I swallowed, yeah, tell me about it…

“There was nothing the doctors could do for me. So, I prayed to The Princesses for some kind of a miracle. One night, Luna answered my prayer. My eyes were fixed, and my mind was cleared. Until I awoke the next morning, and found my eyes were still the same.”

I furrowed my brow, “Well, that sucks. I thought you said Princess Luna fixed your eyes?”

“She did,” Ditzy objected, “You see, under the healing rays of her moon, I am cured of my disability.”

I frowned, “But it’s only during the night.”

Ditzy nodded, “Yes. That’s true,” she smiled, “Which is all the more reason to enjoy that which she gives us. Spirit, you cannot begin to understand how fortunate I feel.”

My mouth fell open, “But you were born that way! How can you say you’re fortunate?!”

She smiled patiently, “Spirit, we all have problems, or doubts that restrict us. It doesn’t matter what hardships we endure, what matters is how we overcome them. Life is hard, Spirit. Anypony can tell you that. What matters is not how unfortunate we are, but rather, how we approach that which we are given.”

I mouth fell open. I never thought of it like that. I fell onto my haunches. Is that why what happened to me happened? It was just a test life threw at me to see how I’d cope? Mac told me not to take short-cuts home, and to always follow the main streets. I though life was being unfair to me – like it was hell-bent on making me miserable, but the truth is: it’s my fault I walked down that alley in the first place. I can’t change what happened to me to in that alleyway, what’s done is done.

So, was that my test? To see how I would deal with something as life altering as this? And how have I dealt with it? I’ve spent the last three months pissing and moaning about how shitty my life has been. I frowned. I was so concerned with my own self-pity, that I neglected the ponies closest to me.

Mac.

Morgan…

I swallowed. Life had tested me, and I failed. I glanced back up at Ditzy, she was smiling broadly at me, “I didn’t want to disturb you, you looked as if you were lost in thought.”

I nodded, and blinked a few times, “Yeah. Something happened to me recently, and I didn’t know how to deal with it. I thought that everypony was out to get me, but hearing your story… it’s given me a new perspective, and a lot to think about,” I smiled at her, “Thank you.”

She beamed, “I am glad I could help you, Spirit,” she cleared her throat, “Now, if there was nothing else you needed?”

“I don’t think so…?”

“Excellent! If you will excuse me – there are some clouds that are just waiting for me to roll among.”

I cocked my head, “I’m sorry, what?”

Ditzy grinned, “Have you ever rolled on a cloud during the night? The feeling is practically orgasmic!”

I blushed, “Wha- I-I can’t say I have…”

Ditzy chuckled, “I thoroughly recommend it, and I look forward to talking with you, should we ever meet again.”

“Likewise,” I smiled.

I watched Ditzy flare her wings, and take to the night sky. She flew past me and turned one hundred and eighty degrees, she flew directly into a cumulus cloud floating a few metres behind the one I was sitting on. I couldn't help but chuckle to myself at the sight of her: Ditzy giggled like a school filly as she rolled around on the surface of the cloud.

I shook my head and turned, climbing to my feet as I gazed out the endless expanse of the darkened Equestrian landscape. I unfurled my wings as a light breeze blew past me, tickling my face and ruffling my mane. I half-closed my eyes as I inhaled the crisp, cool air. I felt amazing. Better than amazing – like a weight had been lifted from my back. Everything felt clearer. I can’t change what happened to me, but I can change how deal with whatever life throws my way from here on out. A small smiled crept across my face, yeah, I’m gonna do better – I’m gonna be better from now on. You can't spend all your time dwelling on the bad, you have to embrace the good. And that's just what I'm going to do.

I flapped my wings, and took flight.

Cloudsdale High School. The next day.

I walked through the entrance with my head held high. The ponies bustling around the entrance spared me a few murmurs, and glances, but I didn’t care. I made it to my locker, and packed my saddlebags for the day. I raised my hoof to close my locker, and stopped it about half-way. A sly smile crept across my face. I closed my locker and turned, sure enough Morgan was waiting for me.

“G’day sunshine,” he beamed.

“G’day yaself,” I smiled back at him.

He quirked an eyebrow, “Well, aren’t you in a good mood.”

I nodded, “I can’t help it, I’ve been smiling all morning.”

He smirked, “Yeah, I have that effect on ponies.”

I chuckled, “Oh, Morgan. Don’t ever change.”

He scoffed, “As if I’d want to.”

I grinned, “Hey, I’ve been thinking- ”

“Uh oh, that’s dangerous prospect,” he playfully interjected.

I giggled, “Morgan, I’m serious.”

His smiled died, “Alright, what’s on your mind?”

I grinned widely, “I’d like to take you out this weekend.”

He blinked, “Take me out?”

I nodded, “Yup.”

“Like on a date?”

“No, on a tour of Cloudsdale,” I lightly thumped his shoulder, “Of course on a date!”

He blinked again, “Like, seriously?”

I nodded.

“Huh…” He stared at me, dumbfounded.

I smirked, “So, what do ya say?”

He shook himself back to reality, “This isn’t some kind of prank you’re pulling on me?”

I shook my head, “Nope.”

He nodded with furrowed brows, “Okay then,” his gaze softened, “Yeah, sure. I’d like to go out with you.”

I beamed, “Great! We’ve got a spare up first, so we can discuss the details if you want.”

He nodded, “Sure, I’d like that,” he gave me a small smile.

I grinned bashfully. Well, that went way better than I thought it would. The bell for first period chimed. Morgan and I glanced at each other; we both knew what the other was thinking. Without a word, we both turned down the hall, and made our way towards the library. I glanced over a Morgan, a sly smirk crossed my mouth. I pushed my body against his, and draped my wing over his back.

He flinched at the contact, and I swear I could see a ghost of a blush touch his cheeks. He smirked and leaned towards me, “I don’t know who you are, or what you’ve done with Spiri – but I like you.”

I blushed, “I’m still the same mare, Morgan. It just took me a while to realise the things that are important to me.”

And I did. I’ve always had feelings for him, I just tried to tell myself that I didn’t. But I realise now that you need to hold onto the good in your life, and Morgan is easily the best thing I have. We received all kinds of scandalous looks and murmurs as we walked down the hallway, but I didn’t care. They could spread all the rumours and gossip they wanted, ‘cause at the end of the day, I had something that was much more important than them.

Saturday afternoon. My bedroom.

Now, before you go getting the wrong idea – Morgan and I didn’t ‘do it’. I mean, I just asked him out on Thursday for crying out loud! And we literally just finished our date – which was awesome by the way. We didn’t do anything too special, we just hung around at The Mall – the biggest and only shopping mall in Cloudsdale – then we saw a movie and came back to my place. It was actually pretty boring as far as social outings go – nothing that we haven’t already done a thousand times before. But the fact that we were ‘more than friends’ now that made it that much more enjoyable.

Which brings me to my current situation. Morgan was lying on my bed, on his side, resting his head on his hoof, supported by his elbow as he gazed up at me. I was sitting across from him, about half-way down the bed, smiling down at him.

“So,” He began, “Is this the part where we bang?” He asked with half-lidded eyes.

I rolled my eye, “Forever the gentlecolt,” I remarked with a smirk, “No. We’re not banging. At least, not yet,” I fluttered my eyelashes.

He pouted, “Aww, I feel cheated now. Spent the whole day with you – and I didn’t even get any poon.”

“Hey! I ain’t no whorse. Three dates, then I’ll consider sealing the deal.”

He looked up at me, puzzled, “’Seal the deal’? You say it like it’s your first time.”

I blinked, my ears flattened against my head. I pawed the bed sheets, trying not to look at him. Dammit! Why do I feel so embarrassed all of a sudden?

He perked up, “Wait… it’s not… seriously?”

I glanced at him, “It’s not what?”

He blinked, and sat up, “You mean you’ve never…?”

“Done it?”

He nodded.

I glanced away, I huffed exasperatedly, “No, alright? I’ve never done it. You happy now?”

He shook his head, “Hey, it’s nothing to be ashamed about-”

“Who said I’m ashamed?!” I shot back.

He blinked. He gazed softened as he scooted closer to me, “Spiri, I didn’t mean to upset you. And it’s not a big deal, I’m just surprised is all. I mean-” he grinned slyly, “-You’re a total babe, I just can’t believe you haven’t found somepony already, you know?”

I furrowed my brow, “I appreciate you trying to make me feel better, but we both know that ain’t true.”

His mouth fell open, “Are you serious?!”

I recoiled, “What?”

“You don’t…” he shook his head, and fixed me with a serious look, “Spiri, did you ever wonder why I kept joking about getting under your tail?”

I blinked, “Uh…”

He smiled, “Spiri, you’re gorgeous.”

I swallowed, “I’m not…”

“You are! You’re easily one of the hottest mares at our school,” he thought for a moment, “Well, except for maybe Rainbow Dash. I mean, I know she’s older and everything, – and she doesn’t go to school anymore, but dayum.”

I half-smirked, “Gee, thanks.” My face fell, I pulled back my mane, and tucked it my behind my ear, “But I’m… I mean…”

Morgan glanced at my face, I watched his eyes trail up and down the length of my scars and rest on my eye. He glanced back at my good eye, “Do you want my honest opinion?”

I swallowed and nodded.

He grinned, “I think it looks cool.”

My mouth fell open. Cool?! He thinks it looks cool?! He… it doesn’t bother him?

He leaned closer to me. He was only inches from my face; I could feel his warm breath on my lips. My cheeks felt hot.

“Plus,” He breathed, “Scars are sexy…” His eyes slipped close as he leaned forward.

I clenched my eyes shut as his lips met mine. My heart hammered in my chest. His lips were soft, and strangely hot against mine. It felt like my face was on fire. His kiss only lasted for a second: a quick peck on the lips, but if felt like so much longer. Morgan broke the kiss, and rested his forehead against mine, tilting his head so his horn wasn’t digging into me.

It only lasted a second, but I was panting as if I’d just run a marathon. I kept my eyes closed.

“Please tell me that wasn’t your first kiss,” He breathed.

I swallowed, “Okay, I won’t.”

He snickered, “You, are amazing.”

I smirked, and peeked up at him, “Yeah, I know.”

He arched his head back, and leaned in for another kiss…

“Hey, you two alright up here?” Mac asked as he opened the door.

My eyes flew wide as I whirled around, and stared at Mac. Morgan quickly pushed himself away from me, we both sat on my bed – flank by flank, staring at the entrance to my room. My cheeks were burning, and Morgan’s didn’t look much better.

Mac immediately narrowed his eyes at us, “What were you two doing?”

Morgan and I answered at the same time.

“Nothing!” I blurted out.

“Studying!” Morgan cried.

Morgan and I glanced at each other, “Studying!” I cried.

“Nothing!”

Mac glanced suspiciously between us, “Were you two kissing?”

I blanched, “What?! No! Why would you think that?”

“Because you’re both blushing,” Mac deadpanned.

“What? We’re not blushing, it’s just really hot in here, right, Morgan?” I nudged him with my elbow.

He blinked, “Yeah, right. Hot.”

Mac lowered his gaze, “Maybe it’s hot in here because of all the hormones flying around.”

My mouth fell open, “Uh…”

“I swear we didn’t do anything!” Morgan cried, “It was just a friendly – and completely platonic – peck on the lips, I swear!”

“Y-yeah!” I agreed.

Mac glared at Morgan, “So, what? You’re saying Spiri isn’t good enough for you?”

“Exactly!” Morgan agreed without a second thought.

I glared at Morgan, “Hey!” I thumped him in the shoulder.

He flinched and glanced at rapidly between us, “I-I mean no! Your niece is amazing, and I’d be lucky to have her as my fillyfriend. Hypothetically speaking of course, because we’re not together.”

“Nope,” I shook my head, “We’re just a couple of really close mates, is all.”

Mac glanced between us. I felt like his scrutinizing gaze was going to burn a hole right through me. Slowly, he relaxed as a smile formed on his mouth, “Hell, it’s about time.”

I blinked.

Morgan and I glanced at each other, and then turned back to Mac.

I blinked again, “Saywhat?”

Mac chuckled, “It’s about damn time you two got together. Seriously, the sexual tension was so thick I could’ve cut it with a knife!”

I blushed, “Mac!” I whined. Morgan just stared ahead, blankly.

Mac held up a hoof, “Easy there, kiddo. I’m just messin’ with ya. But truthfully through, I’m happy for you two.”

I glanced at Morgan, and he glanced at me. I gave him a small smile that he returned; I glanced back at Mac, “Thanks, Mac.”

“Yeah,” Morgan chimed in, “Thanks… uh, Mr Mac.”

Mac nodded, “Well, I guess I’d better leave ya to it,” He half-turned to walk out the door, “Oh, and Morgan?” He turned back.

Morgan turned to him, “Yes sir?”

“It goes without saying: If you break Spiri’s heart, I’ll cut ya penis off.”

My mouth fell open. Morgan’s face lost all colour, “Y-yes, sir…”

Mac smiled brightly, “Alright then, you two have fun,” He closed the door behind him.

I turned to Morgan, “Well, that could've been a hellova lot worse.”

Morgan slowly turned to me, wide-eyed, “Spiri?”

“Yes, Morgan?”

“I like my penis.”

I frowned, “Morgan-”

“I am very attached to my penis.”

I blushed, and glanced away, “Can we not talk about your penis?”

“I don’t want to lose it,” he whimpered.

I rolled my eyes, “Don’t worry. Mac’s not gonna cut ya penis off…”

Morgan sighed with relief.

“At least, I don’t think he will. Although, I don’t know. He’s kinds crazy…”

“Spiri…” Morgan whined.

I smiled at him, “Relax,” I extended my wing over his shoulder, “I won’t let him take ya stallionhood.”

Morgan leaned into my embrace, “Thanks.”

“At least not till we’ve sealed the deal. After that? I’m pretty indifferent to the whole thing.”

“Oh, you are just the worst,” Morgan breathed.

I smirked, “Yeah, I know. You love it.”

Nine months later.

I had just a little over two weeks of school before I graduated. Morgan and I’ve been considering what we were gonna do once we left school. He’s been talking about going to University at Canterlot – he wants to be an Equestrian Teacher. I figured he’d do something like that; he always was good at that kinda stuff. Me, on the other hoof? I’ve been looking at joining the Guard. Service to Equestria runs in my family, Mac told me that my father was a Guardsmen – and one on my great great great great grandfathers was a member of the Shadow Guard, so that’s pretty cool.

Plus, I feel like it’s what I’m supposed to do. And I want to make Mac proud. I’ve put a lot of serious thought into this, there is a training base just outside of Tall Tale – I’ll spend eighty days there, learning everything I need to learn, and then they'll ship me off to Canterlot. You know, because that’s where the main Guard garrison is. Plus I’ll be close to Morgan, which is one hell of a bonus perk.

How have we been? Well, I’m not the kinda mare who kisses and tells – despite the fact that I’ve totally already done that… but to answer your question, we’re great. Although I’m worried about how things will go once we leave school. I’ve never had a long distance relationship before, and I have no doubt that the first few months will be the hardest. But I’m not ready to give him up, not after I just got him – so I’m gonna do everything I can to make sure it works out, and I know he’s going to do the same...

Two and a Half Years Later.

I was accepted into the Guard. I trained for eighty days a Kapooka, learning everything I would need to know about protecting and serving. Once I graduated, I packed my bags, excited to finally be on my way to Canterlot – and Morgan. But fate, it seemed, had other plans for me. On my way out of the training camp, I was stopped by Captain Armour – he informed me that I was to head immediately to Duntroon for Officer Training. Initially, I was baffled by this decision, and I voiced my confusion to the Captain. He informed me that this order came down straight from the top. Who was I to argue with something like that? So, I headed to Duntroon.

They told me it was for Officer Training. What they didn’t tell me is that Officer Training lasted for eighteen months. Naturally, I was upset with this news to say the least. But, it wasn’t all bad. Morgan’s University course lasted for four years, so eighteen months was a cake walk. Still, it didn’t make things any easier, but we still tried. Celestia bless him – Morgan wrote me a letter every week without fail, to tell me about Canterlot, and his studies. And likewise, I would reply to his letters, telling him all about the wonders of Guard life. Like, for example, how to set bones and construct make-shift splints.

Yeah, it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but I didn’t expect it to be, and I still enjoyed it. It gave me a sense of purpose, and belonging. It wasn’t a walk in the park, either – not like Kapooka. Learning how to successfully command and control Guardsmen in the field was a grueling and arduous task, both mentally and physically. Yet, at the same time it was satisfying and fulfilling.

It was hard work, but it was good work.

Needless to say, I passed with flying colours. And so did my time there. When they first told me how long the course was, I was nothing but pessimistic about it. Although, eighteen months was just barely enough time for them to teach us everything we needed to know – and the time just flew by. I was marching out of my graduation ceremony before I knew it.

So, once that was all said and done, I moved to Canterlot as soon as I could. When Morgan and I met up, it felt like we’d spent a lifetime away from each other. We spent the whole weekend together, and it was easily the best weekend of my life.

With all of the pay I had saved up – because, while I was training, I lived at the Barracks and didn’t have to pay rent – I bought an apartment for us, right at the half-way point of the city, half-way between The Canterlot Barracks, and the University of Canterlot.

And for the next few months, things were better than amazing. Morgan would spend his week studying and I’d spend mine working, then we’d spend our weekends together. It was better than I could have imagined. Until one day, I received a letter – informing me that I had been selected for enrollment into the Shadow Guard. Of course I jumped at the opportunity, why wouldn’t I? Luna only recruited the best of the best to act as her personal bodyguards.

Morgan of the other hoof? Was less than enthusiastic, and understandably so – Shadow Guards were nocturnal, and it would mess with our already hectic timetables. I told him that nothing would change between us, and that we’d find a way to make it work – we had in the past, and this was no exception.

So, after a long and thorough talk, he agreed to support my decision. I accept their offer the next day. Since I already had basic and officer training under my belt, they didn’t give me any new training on top of that which I already had. What they did do was test all of my skills to their limits. I spend days at a time running through combat simulations, leading ponies into and out of mock battles – in all kinds of simulated weather environments.

I thought Officer Training was hard – but Shadow Guard Training made it look like a Sunday school camp-out.

There were so many times where I wanted to give up, or I thought that I wasn’t cut out for this kind of work. But in those moments, I thought about the ponies I loved, and I thought what they would say if they could see me now.

Mac: Come on Spiri, I didn’t raise a quitter! Now get off your arse, and get moving!

Morgan: Stop being such a pussy!

Mac had a way of making you find motivation, even if you had none. But Morgan? Even in my darkest moments, Morgan would still find a way to make me smile. I don’t know if I could’ve made it without him. But, somehow, I did.

The month of assessment I had to undergo was the hardest of my life, but I passed. Barely.

At the end of it, Luna herself welcomed me to her entourage. That was one of the proudest moments of my life.

Fast-forward a few months, and here we are. In Grifforia. Standing in front of the Royal Griffin Palace, at night, with an entire Battalion of Shadow Guardsmen under my command. Funny how things turn out. The entire Royal Palace was constructed from smooth, white marble. Atop the Central Chamber, – which doubled as the Throne Room, and meeting place – sat an enormous dome. Flanking each corner of the dome, were four towers, which easily surpassed the highest point of the central dome. The rest of the building was square in design.

Luna had personally hoof picked me for this assignment. Our mission was simple: ensure the protection and safety of the Queen of Grifforia, and Miss Fluttershy – The Bearer of the Element of Kindness.

We stood in parade formation: groups of no more than thirty Guardsmen standing at attention in sectioned squares. From my position, – at the head of the formation – and through my peripheral vision, I could see Princess Twilight, Miss Fluttershy and The Grifforian Queen standing under the Entrance Archway of the Palace. Part of Guard training is complete and total discipline, and as such, you must stare directly ahead at all times, and under no circumstances – unless ordered, of course – can you break formation.

Discipline for the armour comes above discipline for yourself, as one of instructors back at Kapooka once said: ‘I don’t care if a fly is fucking your eyeball, you will maintain your ranks at all times!’

“Lieutenant! Front and center!” Princess Twilight yelled.

That’s my cue… I broke away from the formation, and trotted up to her, I approached her from her right side, and saluted her, “Yes Ma’am?”

Princess Twilight turned, and smiled at me, “Lieutenant, I believe it would be within everyponies best interests if you worked directly with Her Majesty. As I understand it, you two have a history?”

I blinked, why would she say that? I don’t know any Grifforian royals…

“Yes Ma’am,” I turned to face the Griffin and the other Pegasus pony before me, I examined them. Miss Fluttershy looked exactly as she did in the briefing: A canary yellow Pegasus mare with a flowing pink mane and tail. Alpha squad would see to her personal protection once we started working with Royal Palace Guards.

I glanced over at the Queen. The briefing Princess Twilight held for us on the boat ride over neglected any physical descriptions about her. All we knew is that she was a capable fighter, and her survival was charged as the highest level of priority.

The feathers around her head and neck were white, while the feathers that covered the rest of her body were brown. Her golden eyes stared at me intensely. Wait, wait just a minute here… the tips of the three most predominant feathers on the top of her forehead were light purple: the same as the marks around her eyes.

My eye widened, no. there is no freaking way…

I removed my helmet, to get a better look at her.

“You,” she breathed, as she fell onto her haunches.

No! You have got to be kidding me! There is no way the Queen of Grifforia is… “Gilda,” I whispered, dumbfounded.

“Ahem?” Princess Twilight cleared her throat.

I glanced back at The Princess, “I’m sure you two have some catching up to do, but right now we have more pressing matters.”

I shook my head, snapping myself back to reality. I nodded, “Right, we need somewhere to house all these Guards. Does this Palace have a Barracks?” Bit of a stupid question, but…

Gilda blinked, she half-turned to the first Griffin Guard she could see, “You! Does this Place have a Barracks?”

He glanced between Gilda and Princess Twilight, confused, “Of course-”

“Good, I want you – and everybody else – to take all these Equestrian Guards there, and get 'em settled in.”

“B-but your Majesty!”

Gilda narrowed her eyes, “Did I stutter?”

“N-no-”

“Then what are you waiting for?”

I chuckled inwardly, yeah, that’s definitely Gilda…

The Guard hastily saluted, “A-at once, Ma’am! You heard her Majesty, move!” Griffins flooded through the archway, meeting my troops. They systematically sectioned them into groups, and funnelled them around the sides of the Palace. To the Barracks, I would assume.

“Well, I can see you have things under control here,” The Princess announced, “Now, I must take my leave – there are still a few preparations that need to be made, I trust you two will be able to handle things here efficiently?”

“Of course, Ma’am,” I chimed in.

“Yeah, what she said,” Gilda added.

Twilight smiled, “Then I wish you both the best of luck,” with a near blinding flash of her horn, Twilight disappeared. Damn Unico- err, Alicorns and their magic…

“If there was nothing else?” I inquired, because I’d like to go and see to my troops.

Gilda turned to Fluttershy, “Hey, Shy. Think you can remember how to get back to the bedroom?”

Fluttershy nodded, “Um, I think so.”

“Great! I’ll meet you there.”

“Um, okay?” Fluttershy gave Gilda a brief peck on the cheek before she turned and trotted down the hallway, just past the entrance. Whoa, okay. Gilda and Fluttershy… no, scratch that – a pony and a Griffin? Wow… how the hell does that even work?

Gilda turned back to me, “We need to talk, follow me,” she said evenly.

“Yes Ma’am.” I agreed. Judging form her painfully neutral tone, I'd say were in for one of those talks. Goodie.

We walked in silence through the long corridor, and into the Central Chamber. The inside of the Central Chamber actually resembled that of a semi-circle. The first half of the room was a recessed area, with what appeared to be spectator boxes lining the walls either side of the entrance. Each spectator looked as if they were simply carved into the marble. In fact, the entire building looked as if it were carved and hollowed out of a single, gigantic piece of the rock.

Once we were inside the Central Chamber, Gilda whirled on me.

“What the hell are you doing here?!” She hissed.

Whoa, okay… I blinked, severely taken aback, “Well, it’s nice to see you too, sunshine…”

Gilda shook her head, “No, I mean – what the hell are you doing here?! And why are you dressed like a guard?”

My eye darted to the left, “Because I am one…?” No, because I always rock around in full Guard armour for shits and giggles…

Gilda groaned, as she face-clawed, “Spirit…”

“Hey,” I objected, “I’m just as surprised as you are! I mean – Queen of Grifforia? Like, seriously?”

Gilda nodded.

“Damn… I did not see that coming. Still, congrats and all…”

Gilda shook her head, “That’s all you have to say, Spirit? ‘Congrats’, after everything that happened?!”

I frowned, “What do you want me to say? You spoke your piece, I spoke mine – we kissed and made up, so as far as I’m concerned, we’re good.” Geez, I thought we were clear on that.

Gilda narrowed her eyes, “You keep saying that, but I’m not buying it.”

I matched her gaze, you have got to be kidding me… “Seriously? You’re still on about this?”

Gilda pressed her beak into a firm line.

I sighed exasperatedly, you wanna play that game? “Okay, fine. You want to know how I really feel? It sucks. It fact, it monumentally blows! But I’m making lemonade out of it. Don’t get me wrong, it took me months to get right, but I did get right. You happy now?”

Gilda clenched her jaw, “What would you say, if I could give you the Griffin responsible?”

I furrowed her brow, oh, don’t you even… “Gilda…” I warned.

“She’s here. In Grifforia.”

My mouth twisted down as I scowled, “I would say, thanks but no thanks,” I swept my mane behind her ear. I watched Gilda’s face as she examined my scars, she frowned.

“How is revenge gonna fix this? Hmm? What’s done is done, no point dwelling on it.”

Gilda shook her head, dejected.

I straightened my mane, so it was covering my face again, “Besides, if you wanna get technical – I should be apologising to you.”

Gilda cocked her head, “How the hell does that make sense?”

Ha ha, funny you should say that… my shoulders slumped, “Gilda… I didn’t know what they’d do to you.”

Her features hardened.

“Hell, I didn’t even know about that place till I join the Guard. I didn’t…” I sighed, “I’m sorry, Gilda. For what happened to you.”

Gilda squinted, “You, have got a really screwed up way of looking at things.”

I grinned broadly, “Maybe that’s cause I’m a really screwed up Pony.” And thank you Morgan, for that catch phrase…

Gilda huffed, she half-grinned as she glanced away. She gave me a small smile, “Still, it’s good to see you again,”

I smiled, “Yeah, you too. Still can’t believe it though – ‘Queen of Grifforia’, I mean, wow.”

Gilda scoffed, “Forget that, how the hell did you become a Guard?!”

I shrugged, “I enlisted right outta high school. Did me eighty days at Kapooka: Basic Guard Training, and then – for some damned reason – I was shipped off to Duntroon: Officer School. I guess I impressed the right ponies.”

“Then you joined the Shadow Guard?”

I nodded, “Yup,” Now, that’s technically true…

Gilda quirked a skeptical eyebrow, “But you don’t have… I mean you’re not… you know…”

I grinned, she noticed, well I can’t say I blame her – I do stick out like a sore hoof. I glanced over my shoulder, “You noticed, huh?” I fluttered my wings, “Ordinarily, you have to undergo the procedure to become a Shadow Guard, but, I don’t know. I think they made an exception in my case – cause my great great great something-or-rather was a Shadow Guard.”

“Huh.”

“Yeah…”

We fell into a silence. Well at least isn’t awkward… yeah…

“So,” Gilda began, “Now I’ve got an entire Battalion of Shadow Guard?”

I nodded, “That is correct.”

“You guys know what’s going on?”

“Princess Twilight briefed us on the flight over. Which reminds me – with your permission, I’ll begin coordinating with your Palace Guards first thing tomorrow morning.”

Gilda nodded, “Yeah sure… say, you answer to me, right?”

“Correct Ma’am.” Why? What are you planning…

“Then, I want you to assign some Guards to watch over Fluttershy.”

“Fluttershy?”

“Yeah she’s the-”

“Element of Kindness, I know.” I was briefed…

Gilda narrowed her eyes, “It’s just that I can’t keep an eye on her all the time and-”

I held up a hoof to silence Gilda, “Say no more Ma’am, a squad has already been detached to look after her.”

Gilda blinked, “Already? How?”

“Princess Twilight was adamant in the protection of Miss Fluttershy. The last thing she wants is the loss of a Bearer.” Yeah, that would be kinda bad…

“Oh, I guess that makes sense.”

“Yeah, I don’t mean to pry but… are you two…?” I quirked an eyebrow. Bang buddies?

Gilda glared at me, “Yeah, is that a problem?”

Whoa, easy there. It’s not like I’m asking if ya wanna swap favourite positions or anything… but if we're goin' on record here? it's a toss up between Doggy and Cowgirl. I shook my head, “Never said it was, Ma’am. Just curious is all.”

“Yeah, well. You’re dismissed. I’m pretty sure the rest of the Guard are at the Barracks, so…”

I saluted, “Ma’am,” I turned to the right, and began making my way down one of the many winding corridors.

“Hey! You even know where the Barracks is?” Gilda called after me.

I waved a dismissive hoof as I called over my shoulder, “Don’t worry Ma’am, I’m sure I’ll find it… eventually.”

I rounded a corner that lead into a small, smooth corridor. Alright, tomorrow I'll assign Alpha to watch over Miss Fluttershy, then we can work on breaking in the Royal Palace Guards. I blew out a long, slow sigh.

We have got a lot of work to do.

And I will be Queen, and you'll be my King.
And we'll lead the life, poorer then poorer can be.
But we'll smile, till, we die.
Safe in the knowledge the world that we left was a lie...