Stripe's Beginning

Chapters

Zebrafrica
A New Life
The Royal Wedding
A New Beginning

Zebrafrica

Heat, absolutely unbearable heat. The desert shows no mercy to any within it's deadly grasp. The deserts of Zebrafrica are no exception. A lone figure is seen wandering, his destination a mystery to all but himself. Taking a deep breath, he bucks his head back to lower his hood. He is a zebra, noble and proud. Rearing up on his hind legs, he drops the robe and the armor he wore underneath is seen. Snorting, his eyes scan the horizon as he breathes in and out. His armor is made of leather, thick and light. Colored a desert brown to better help him hide amongst the constantly swirling sands of the desert.

Looking up towards the sun, he sighs and then glances behind him. His almost non existent mane blowing in the wind. His left ear twitches and he cocks his head slightly to his left. As his left eye scans, he reaches to his right and pulls a steel stick with a spiked ball attached, a mace. On his left side was a scabbard. It was ornately designed and looked like it may have been of his own language, but it was too well decorated for that. Inside it was a unique blade, a blade given to him by someone very close.

Holding the mace in his mouth, he looks out across the desert. His kind had been in a war with the changelings for nearly a year. Having been on the front lines the entire time, this zebra knew combat. He knew battle. He knew that generally, the changelings didn't take prisoners. When they did, there was usually an ulterior motive for it.

As he stiffens, he closes his eyes and lets the desert tell him everything. The wind blows constantly from the west as it always has, cooling him. The sound of the sand rubbing against itself can be heard as the wind continues it's onslaught. The heat of the sun can be felt as it beats down on everything he can see. It is then he stands at attention and opens his eyes. The sound of something moving in the sand catches his attention. The barely audible sound of quiet buzzing.

Swinging his head up, he lets go of the mace and lets loose a loud zebra whinny before catching it handle first as he charges.

A couple of dunes over, a group of half a dozen changelings are marching across the desert. Having gotten lost after they had attacked a battalion of zebras, they were trying to find their way back. The one in front stops as he turns to the others. Having heard a zebra, he nods to the others as each other takes on a disguise of some of the zebras they had ambushed earlier. As the leader's disguise takes over, he clears his throat, “Keep it casual.”

The charging zebra rushes over the dune straight towards them. The changeling leader is about to speak when he notices the attacker is not stopping. He barely has time to duck as that mace is swung with a fierce intensity.

Having discovered a group of zebras, the charging zebra had been about ready to stop when he saw those of his former battalion, the same battalion that had been decimated. Heading towards the one in front, he swung his mace and heard the crunch of metal on exoskeleton. The changeling directly behind the leader had taken the full force of that hit as his disguise dissipated.

Jumping off to the left, the zebra lets loose his hind legs and bucks a second changeling into several of the others. Having managed to catch the group by surprise, he went with the momentum and prayed he could take them all out before one of them got wise.

The changeling leader growled as he turned his head. “Get him!! Kill him now!!” He had orders to eliminate the troops and keep the zebras in disarray. The main contingent of his hive was elsewhere, working on a more important conquest. All he had to do was keep control of the warriors he had been given and keep the zebras busy. Other similar forces could be found in some of the other lands doing the same thing. Though he must admit, aside from the bulk of his hive, he'd lost contact with the other two groups.

The disguises faded as the remaining four changelings began to fight. Clashing with the zebra, one tries to get and edge only for his opponent to roll to the side at the last second.

The zebra watches as the changeling he was just in a fight with gets impaled by another changeling with a spear. Jumping up onto his back, the zebra brings his mace down onto the changeling with the spear. Smashing that head in, the zebra flinches and chokes, dropping his mace.

The leader had blasted the zebra aside with his magic. Nodding to his remaining subordinate, they begin firing. Grabbing his mace as he uses the bodies of the two changelings as cover, the zebra has to calm his breathing. Looking down, he sees his armor is charred but holding. Taking a moment, he hurls the mace and strikes the subordinate in the head before drawing his sword.

The leader turned when he heard the crack. His split second distraction was all the zebra needed as he charged forth and made a clean swipe with his sword. The razor sharp sword was slightly recurved yet thin, but very strong. A changeling katana, this very rare weapon was one he had made full use of when in a jam. Looking over the blade, he sees the green glean of the changeling's blood.

With the battle ended, the zebra recovers his mace and continues on. Looking up, he sees the sun as it is beginning to set. It was afternoon and would soon be evening. “Just another couple of hours and I'll be home. Artemisia, I miss you.”

In the major city of Caibra, zebras are seen walking around. They are heading to their own predetermined destinations. At the city gates, the zebra from the desert is seen approaching. Taking a deep breath as he walks, he exhales and nods to the two guards on duty. “Brand, Iron.....good to see you two.” The guards nod to him as he enters.

A slightly larger and older zebra is seen approaching. He has a scar over his left eye and a fierce look on his face. Stamping his left hoof, the younger zebra takes notice. The older one commanded attention due to his size, his age, and the shining gold of his armor. However, unlike the guards and warriors of Equestria, zebras rarely have metal armor. Instead, they frequently use leather armor since it is easier to come by. Plus, why spend extra on having someone make a detailed piece of metal armor out of gold when you can have the same made out of leather and painted gold for much less?

“STRIPE!” The younger zebra flinched as the older one yelled. “Yes sir?” “Good to see you. I thought the desert would have claimed you this time for sure.” “Not hardly. It came close, but never close enough.” “Just like always. Where is your mother? I haven't seen her in ages.” “Commander Zecorn, don't you remember? She moved to Equestria several years ago. I've received only a few letters since she moved. All she ever talks about is me moving up there to meet her new friends.” “She still rhyme?” “She never stops. She's like the elder zebra shamans or priestesses, always rhyming and never speaking plainly. It's a new age. Why can't she just talk normally? I know she can.” “Well, it's her choice.”

A flurry of movement is seen off to the left and just out of the corner of his eye. “Sir, if you'll excuse me. I think I have some personal matters to attend to.” The elder zebra turned to where the younger one was looking and simply chuckled before nodding his approval. Smiling, Stripe galloped off. As the elder zebra stared and watched, his smile turned into a frown. There was something that troubled him. Something that he probably should have mentioned, but he hadn't. Shaking his head, he turns around and makes a beeline for the center of town.

Stripe galloped through the city streets. He had only one destination in mind now. He was back home and that meant he could see her. He could be with her again. “Artemisia,” he states to himself and picks up the pace as best as he can. The sound of his hooves clopping against the cobblestone streets is clearly audible as zebras move aside. SMACK!!!

A hefty zebra mare had been unable to move fast enough when she'd been knocked down by the young zebra warrior. “Ooh, my side.” “Please forgive me,” Stripe stated as he hurried to help her up once the stars had been cleared away. “Oh, it's you. Dear me.” “Mrs. Blackhoof?” The mare nodded. Stripe looked over her frame after helping her up. She was a lot bigger than he remembered. “You put on weight?” In most cases, this is the absolute worst question to ask a female. However, Mrs. Blackhoof was a former teacher of Stripe's and was also a good friend of his mother. In fact, she'd kept an eye on him as per his mother's request. The old mare had always been a little overprotective of Stripe and vice versa. “Maybe,” she giggled. “If I answered truthfully, then Artemisia might think I was trying to steal you from her.” Stripe blushed noticeably at the mention of his wife's name. “Go, she needs you.”

Several blocks away, a typical looking home of the area blends into all the other buildings along the sides of the streets. Like many places in Zebrafrica, homes were made out of mud because of how plentiful it is and how it seems to moderate the temperature inside much better than homes made out of wood or even metal.

The inside is much the same as the outside. Mud brick walls lined the interior just as they shaped the exterior. Whereas the exterior was closer to a square in shape, the interior walls were slightly curved. Like in most homes in Zebrafrica, ornate masks were lined up along the walls. A number of assorted flasks and pots made of clay were also plentiful. A large sturdy bed was off to the side. The frame for it was made of rock and mud and topped with sticks that had been strewn together. Several thick blankets were laid atop it and that pretty much covered it. Some homes had more modern beds, (ie, mattresses), but Stripe had grown up in the Zebra Military and this was good enough for him. A few simple chairs are also set up. Like the bed, they are strewn together pieces of wood adorned with thick animal skins. However, these are much sturdier than the bed.

A little further in is the kitchen. A brick oven is the centerpiece of the kitchen. Zebras have used wood for centuries in brick ovens. The heat of the fire has always been noted to cook food better than any modern convenience created thus far. Most zebras do use modern stoves and ovens, but not Stripe. He also has a fire pit with a large pot on a metal pole. Again, a tried and true method of cooking that Stripe prefers over the more modern equivalent. Further in the back is the only modern part of the home. Stripe's wife had insisted on a modern shower system. It had cost a fortune to get installed, but it had been worth it.

Initially, Stripe was uncertain about 'plumbing'. He'd always bathed himself in the river and made use of an outhouse. He didn't see the point of having a shower and toilet installed. But, his wife Artemisia had convinced him to have modern plumbing installed. After trying it out himself for the first time, he was sold. The warm or cold water dancing across his furred body was more soothing than the rare rainstorms. It was also a nice way to relax after a particularly stressful and hot day. Plus, the bathroom sink was large enough to also be used for cleaning vegetables if necessary,

Stripe's home is mostly simple, but that is just fine for him. It is then that a figure enters. This figure is quite large, barely able to fit through the front door. Having squeezed through, the figure drops her hood. A beautiful zebra mare with a bright red mane sighs warmly before glancing back towards the door. Artemisia was very heavy, nearly 600lbs of fatty mare with a belly that swayed whenever she walked. Her thick flanks were nearly bulging out of her robe as she waddled her way across the main room of the home. Despite her weight, she was still fairly quick and agile. She always knew when her husband was at the city gates and was always there to give him incentive to hurry home.

Outside, the sounds of the city are heard as zebras walk past the front. Turning her head, she focuses intently on the door and then lets out the breath she had been holding. A sound is heard as the form of the zebra disappears. The black exoskeleton is outright noticeable from even a mile off in the open desert. The reddish colored mane remains behind as her thick black exoskeleton becomes more evident. She was still as big as she was in her zebra form. Looking at a mirror that was in the bathroom, she approaches. As she looks inside it, she sees her bright red colored pupils. Turning her head quickly, her eyes glanced at the door.

The creaking sound of the door opening was heard. Backing into the open shower, the changeling female peeks around the corner. A zebra is seen entering. He looks dusty and seems tired as evident by his walk. Tossing his robe onto the nearby chair, he sets his mace by the door before pulling his sword and it's scabbard off and setting them on the kitchen counter. “Artemisia?”

Being married to a changeling was dangerous. They were cunning and fierce creatures only after the emotions from those that love them. Changelings can feed on any emotion, but the positive emotions like love and happiness are the best for them. Most would do anything, even using trickery and deceit to get at these emotions. But, equally as dangerous is marrying a changeling that is not interested in doing any of that. When Artemisia first met Stripe, all she saw was a mark, a target. She had taken the form of a redheaded zebress he had always had a fondness for. She wanted to replace that mare so she could get at the emotions she needed for the changelings she was leading here in Zebrafrica. Doing so was easy, especially since that particular mare died in an accident. Better yet, an accident that didn't involve any of the changelings she had. As she got closer to him and felt his love become more present, something changed. She started to see something she didn't like. Months passed as she began to actually reciprocate his love. When he proposed to her, she revealed herself to him.

Stripe had been surprised to see the mare he had been dating for the better part of a year was a changeling. However, he didn't care. He could tell her love was genuine. So, he gave her a hug and kissed her. In the years that followed, he grew to be very protective of her. His mother had left a few years prior to his meeting her. She had wanted to travel and see the world, but he had wanted to stay because he felt he had an obligation to the Zebra Military. So, she left him with her old home and promised to write him a letter every month. It had been hard to separate like that. Then he met Artemisia and everything was better. After learning she was a changeling, he had had some mixed emotions, but knew it would be better to stick with the one being he still had with him that returned his love. He had been overprotective of his mother because she was his mother. He is overprotective of Artemisia because she is his wife, and also because she is no zebra. He knew his comrades in the military would never accept having a changeling married to one of their own. His own people knew of the war and also heard information suggesting that there was an invasion force in the neighboring country of Equestria. So, popular opinion of the changelings was not high.

“Artemisia?” Seeing her step out from the bathroom, his heart nearly jumped for joy. Every time he left to head into the desert, he feared what he would return to. An empty home. A home that was trashed and bloodstained. Word from the locals, guards or paper of a captured or killed changeling. He feared losing her to the neighbors that he knew and loved. Neighbors that couldn't possibly understand how he could love her and for her to love him back. Not as a changeling seeking emotions, but as a wife would love her husband.

“I was so worried about you,” she stated in a relatively odd feminine voice. It sounded as though she had a microphone stuck in her throat. Hurrying to her, he nuzzled against her. “How are your spells holding up? Are you able to maintain your disguise when you shop?” “Yes, dear husband. I am very careful.” Artemisia didn't want to worry Stripe, so she always tried her best to downplay the fears and worries she knew he had. The fear he had about her losing her disguise in the middle of the busy marketplace was not without merit though. But, her magic was strong enough to keep herself disguised when she needed it most. “Please, rest. I'll make supper.”

Stripe turned and watched as she sauntered into the kitchen to begin cooking. The belief that changelings only fed on emotions was a myth. Stripe had originally believed this till he discovered Artemisia's true shape. She ate everything he did and had no trouble with it. In fact, she even ate in excess to put on weight for him. She had asked him once what he wanted most when he next returned from an assignment. He had told her that just having her safe and alive would be more than enough. She asked him again and again until he relented and told her that he would appreciate seeing her larger. He further elaborated just what he meant by 'larger'. Fat zebras were not all that uncommon. Many zebra mares would eat in excess and show off their fatty forms as a sign of prosperity and wealth. Many males looked on this with approving glances, some for reasons other than a simple note that the female must fairly wealthy.

As the evening grew later, the smells of a thick and hearty vegetable stew began to permeate the entire home. Stripe had spent some time in the back courtyard he had practicing. The courtyard itself was nothing special. A patch of sandy dirt with several target dummies set up for him to practice his unarmed skills on. Very rarely did he train with his mace or sword out here. The main reason was he really hated rebuilding the dummies after every training session. He had learned through testing that they were sturdy enough to handle many sessions before needing some repair when he just used his hooves and his body. Letting out his breath, he turned towards the back door and inhaled deeply. He could smell the delicious smells coming from the kitchen.

As supper cooked, the heavyset changeling busied herself with tidying up the home. Typically, not much was needed to be done. Many days out of each month, she was the only one there. During any given month, she had maybe two weeks at best with her husband. Looking over the armor that was on one of the sturdy chairs (sturdier than normal because of her weight), she saw the blast mark over the chest area. Glancing towards the back, an look of worry crossed her face. Looking back towards it, she bit her tongue. Whenever she did this, she had to be mindful not to bite too hard because of her sharp fangs. “Stripe honey, could you please come in here.” Her voice was more airy and like velvet this time. The voice of the zebra she had taken over. She had to use it whenever she spoke in more than a low voice or whisper inside her home.

Entering, the zebra saw her worried look. “Mia, I'm fine.” “You were struck by changeling magic again. You need to be more careful! Our magic is not as refined as unicorn or even alicorn magic. It can easily kill you. It can poison your body for days or weeks afterwards if the proper spell is used.” Stripe looked towards the ground as he rubbed his left forehoof with his right. “I'm sorry. I do what I can.” “Maybe I should sit on you.” Looking up, the zebra was obviously confused. Artemisia had switched back to her changeling voice when she said it. It was in the same tone she'd had moments before, but there was obviously something different this time around. “I beg your pardon?” “I should sit on you,” she repeated, a smile forming across her muzzle. Walking over, Stripe wrapped his forehooves around her and gave her a big hug. Kissing her cheek, he looks her in the eyes before looking back towards her heavier form. “You gain anything?” “Later. I still have dinner to finish,” she stated as she headed back to the pot where the stew was cooking.

Stripe simply looked over her as she walked. He watched her belly sway to and fro while trying to catch a reasonable glimpse of something else that he knew was swaying to and fro. However, her robes made such things harder to see for him. She did look a little bigger than when he was here three weeks ago. He knew that before the night was through, he'd have some good times with her. The past few times, they'd had to get creative due to the sounds of pleasure she made. Usually, a gag or something else for her mouth was required till they were done lest someone find out that she was not as she appeared. This time, Stripe had some different in mind and wanted to discuss it with her before trying it. Now was not the time for such discussions. Such things were best saved for after dinner when she was more in the mood for experimentation.

Outside, as the sun set further into the western sky and the moon began to make it's appearance, a largish figure looked over the exterior of the home. Zecorn had just gotten back from the military command. His face had a forlorn expression. He was worried and fearful for Stripe. Stripe had been his friend ever since he had joined the Zebrafrican Military. The young zebra had always been so full of spunk and learned fast. He was very nimble and aggressive in combat. Stripe had also been the only one to top his own academy score. Unlike ponies, zebras were more ready to fight and enter battle because the desert landscape was less forgiving than the abundant one of the ponies. Plus, fights here were often more brutal for that fact alone. Sure, Equestria had it's own desert as well, but they at least had food and more friendly neighbors. It was nearly a month's journey to the nearest Equestrian border from Caibra. Few zebras lived outside the major cities, and those were dotted around Zebrafrica.

Hoofsteps garnered his attention as he cocked his head to the right. “You wanted me?” “Yes Iron, I wish to speak with you.” The guard simply nodded. He had gray stripes instead of the more traditional black stripes zebras had. His white stripes of fur were also more faded, much like his grandfather, Ironhide. So, he was called Iron White, or just Iron for short. “You know Stripe, don't you?” “Of course,” Iron replied as he cast a glance towards Stripe's home. “I am fearful for him. I have sent him on many missions out into the farthest reaches of the country. He's gone far out into the desert to scout, sometimes all by himself and sometimes with others. No matter what happened or how dangerous the desert and the creatures were, I always knew he would return.” “Then what could make you worry?” “I discovered something. I still am not completely sure what I discovered, but I've had my superiors look into it to try and give me some good news.” “Another mission? The one he just returned from? He didn't look injured when he entered the main gate.” “It's not that. It is also nothing he's seen or will see out in the desert.” “Then what?” “There may be one of them amongst us.” Iron gave his commander a stare before returning his glance towards Stripe's home.

Several hours passed as the sun made it's final farewells to the land before disappearing below the horizon. Stripe was washing some of the dishes off using the bathroom sink as he looked towards where Artemisia lay on the bed. The wood had cracked and splintered when she had laid down. He had always remembered it creaking and groaning whenever someone would lay down on it. Ever since his wife had started gaining weight to get fat for him, it groaned even more every time she laid down on it. She was tired, very tired. He wouldn't be getting anything tonight, but tomorrow was always another day. However, the fact she was tired did worry him. It took a lot to tire out and drain a changeling of their energy. Emotions provided a very steady and constant flow of magical energy that helped them maintain their disguises with ease. Queens usually use this trick when under the guise of someone to gain love and affection from those they are tricking. It feeds them, it helps them feed their armies and it also enables them to constantly reinforce the spell they have to keep their disguise active. Most changelings are thin though. They are lithe and tiny if agile and deadly creatures. Artemisia is neither thin nor small. She is taller than most queens, though Stripe has none to compare her to. She is also much heavier than any changeling he had ever seen. This compiled with her near constant need to maintain a disguise while taking very little if any emotions from the populace would be incredibly draining on her. If he wished to keep her safe, then he would have to move her out of the city. However, that had problems as well since food was scarce in Zebrafrica outside of the major cities.

A breeze moves through the city and rattles the few wooden shutters in the home. Seeing one fly open, he rushes to it to try and shut it. However, like all the other times it has flung open, it is caught on the window ledge. Trying to push it closed without breaking it is extremely difficult. He can spot several figures across the street. He doesn't know who they are exactly because of the fading light, but he recognized the fact that they had armor on. He was panicking now. If they saw her form as it was without a disguise, he wouldn't be able to protect her. “Close, damn you! Please close,” he pleads as he looks across the street again. With a final shove that was a bit more forceful than he had ever been, he manages to shut the shutter and locks it. Wiping his forehoof across his brow, he glances towards his sleeping wife. “Your magic is starting to fail you,” he mutters as he glances back towards the window. He needed a plan. He'd lost his mother near as he could tell since her letters had stopped coming a few months back. The last one had mentioned Equestria and new friends and the ever present questions that every mother would ask their son. When is he coming to visit? Is he going to move to Equestria? Has he found a wife yet? Are there any grandchildren forthcoming? It was embarrassing but distressing at the same time. “Why couldn't you have stayed mom. I need help,” he states on the edge of tears. Turning from the window, he walked to the kitchen and stopped as he looked over the sword.

A shine was seen, a glint of green. It was not from the scabbard or the sword within, but rather something off to the side. Approaching, he looked over what appeared to be an amulet or a pendant. It was a piece of changeling jewelry. He'd seen Artemisia wear something similar from time to time. This one was different though. He couldn't quite get what was different about it aside from the designs on it. Like the one she wore, it was ornate and very intricately designed. The interwoven patterns of the chitin that changelings had was interesting and fascinating. “It's magic.” Turning his head, he saw Artemisia had sat up somewhat. “What does it do?” “It protects the wearer and helps instill magic. It is said that when one that is not a changeling puts it on, they are given changeling powers.” “That can't be true. Is it?” “I'm not certain. I've heard some rumors of one being that had recovered one. It took time, but he eventually changed. As to how much or whether it was true or not, I am not certain.”

As they talked, the figures outside continued to watch. Zecorn and Iron had both seen the shutter fly open. He'd also seen how frantic Stripe had been to get it shut. “I've never been more afraid for him than right now.” “What can we do?” “Until we have the news, nothing.” “Sir, when will it arrive?” “In the morning. I pray it is not what I think.” Iron had been standing with Zecorn for several hours now and he had gotten no information on why he had been called. “Look, I want you to round up some guards and warriors. Pick ones you know and trust. Meet me here with them tomorrow morning unless I meet you to say otherwise.” “What are we going to do?” “I don't know yet. It's too early to tell.” With that, he walked off down the street leaving Iron sitting there bewildered. Why was his commander so paranoid about Stripe now? Looking towards the house of his friend and colleague, he decided to find out.

Stripe was just about ready to slip into the shower when he heard the knock. “Dammit,” he muttered as he slowly walked to the door. His wife was starting to stir again after drifting back to sleep. Walking over to her, he pulled the blanket to better cover her. With how the door opened, swinging inside and to the right, she would be blocked from view, but only just. So, this was just an added precaution.

The knocking persisted and he sighed as he walked over and finally opened the door. “Stripe. Mind if I come in?” Fortunately, Stripe had a pretty decent excuse to tell him no. “Sorry, Mia is asleep. She's had a rough day and I'd rather not disturb her if at all possible.” Iron knew of the pet name Stripe had for his wife and nodded, a smile forming on his muzzle. “Zecorn is worried. He thinks there is something wrong.” “What?” “I don't know. He wouldn't say. He was just worried for you. I get the feeling he thought you were about to die or something.” “That is a little telling,” Stripe stated, his tone changing. “Does he have reason to worry?” Stripe gave the grayish zebra a glance that was hard to place. Iron had noted the change in tone and was a little suspicious. He was even more suspicious at Stripe's glare. “Your career could very well be riding on this.” “I don't think it is as bad as he thinks. He's just getting a bit fearful. After all, him and Blackhoof promised to look after me. With the intensity of some of the fights in the desert, particularly that last one, he might be getting a touch overprotective.” Stripe knew it was bogus. He knew he was one of the best and that Zecorn was never overly paranoid for the safety of his troops in combat. He only got paranoid if he felt they couldn't be trusted or if he felt someone was deceiving them. Half the time, it was just his old age getting to him and making him paranoid. The other half.....well, things were a little different.

He felt a nudge and saw Iron peeking in and he responded by pushing him back. “Come back tomorrow. Please. Mia is really tired and may have something. So please, try again tomorrow when she is awake and potentially feeling better.” Iron simply gave Stripe a hard glare before nodding, “Fine. I'll be here tomorrow at seven on the dot.” “If she has something, we may be talking later. But, we'll see.” “Fair enough.”

Stripe actually stood at the door and watched as the guard walked off. Keeping his eyes trained on the zebra till he disappeared around the next corner and vanished from his line of sight. Once he was gone, Stripe shut the door quickly. Glancing to where his wife slept, his mind was racing. He needed a way out and fast. It was too dangerous to keep her around here. With some of the actions of his fellow guards striking him as suspicious, he was getting worried for the one he cared the most for. “Wait, Cervidas. If I could just get a train. A one way ticket in first class. I could get a singular car and no one would question it. No one would question if she were different.” It was a weak hope, but he knew enough that the deer were currently having no problems with the changelings near as he could tell from news and reports.

With darkness falling, a figure hurried through the streets of Caibra. The train station only operated during the waking hours, but the ticket counters would be open till ten. If he could get there quickly enough, he could get a ticket and then hurry back. He should have left once he was fairly certain his old comrade had left, but he hadn't. Fearful of the zebra coming back to snoop, he had waited till it was dark before making a run for the station. There was still a risk, so he hurried. Every corner he rounded, every step he took took him farther from his wife and made it that much harder to get back and protect her if someone found her.

Having waited for Iron to go to sleep, Iron was up on a roof. It was with great surprise that he had seen his friend rush out of his home and head off down the street in a big hurry. Having no time to even try to question where he could be going, he merely watched as the zebra warrior took off. Walking down some steps, he walked around to the street and peered both directions. He especially looked to where Stripe had taken off to. Seeing nothing, he carefully and quickly made his way to Stripe's home. Checking the door, he found it locked. Knocking, he heard nothing but the sounds of something large shifting and the creaking of wood. He had to stifle a chuckle at that as he knew how big Artemisia was. Knocking again got him more or less the same response. “Well, Stripe left and Mia is asleep, so I guess I'll take a peek.” Iron knew that Stripe was hiding something. Sure, he'd never let anyone in after a certain time, but he was usually more than willing to at least get a drink. Even if the last mission and trip had been particularly brutal, he still usually tried to spend time with his friends and fellow warriors. It was then that he realized he had never seen Artemisia by herself. He'd never seen her by herself after dark. She was always with Stripe.

“I wonder,” he muttered to himself as he walked around to where that weak shutter was. Pushing on it, he found it resisted. Even when it was locked, he'd seen it swing open if the wind was strong enough. Applying a little more pressure, he finally managed to open it as it swung and then banged against the wall. Ducking back, he heard Artemisia stir. “Stripe?” That voice. That was no zebra. Iron was shocked by what he heard. Ducking down, he heard hoofsteps and kept his eyes on the window. “Cursed shutter. Stripe?” Iron just stood, staring as he saw her head emerge as she tried to get some more leverage to shut it when it broke. “Curses! Stripe!? Stripe, where are you!?” The female sounded panicky. Iron waited till he figured he could make a move and then darted off to find Zecorn. There was a changeling and Stripe may have been influenced.

The clock in the center of Caibra began to chime. It was now ten o'clock. The zebra stallion behind the ticket counter yawned and stretched as he began to close up. His black and white fur showed some hints of gray in his mane. Apparently, he'd seen more than a few years and he intended to see more than a few more. It was as he had just locked the safe when he heard something smash against the outside. “What the hay!?” Outside was a frantic looking zebra stallion. He looked like a guard as evident by what armor could be seen under his robes. “Sorry, we're closed. Come back tomorrow.” “NO!! Please!! I need two tickets to Fawntaine now!” “Sorry, I said....” he began only to be interrupted. “You don't understand. I need those tickets! Please, I have money. Here, 15 rubies. It's all I have. Take it!” The zebra behind the counter looked out the window at the zebra before he looked at the gems that had been shoved through the slit where he would exchange tickets for payment. Usually gold bits or small gemstones. He had enough here to buy almost a hundred tickets. It was clear to him that this zebra was desperate. Something seemed off, but he knew he had to help him. “Okay, give me a moment.”

Stripe watched as the stallion got a couple of tickets and stamped them. “Alright, the train leaves the station tomorrow at seven. Can you make it?” “You bet your life,” Stripe stated and grabbed the tickets before darting off. He hadn't even bothered to grab the rubies the other zebra had pushed back.

On his way back, Stripe had the answer to his prayers in his robe pocket. Every couple of feet he kept checking to make sure the tickets didn't fall out. He was so focused on his destination and not losing the tickets that he nearly ran down his commander. “Whoa whoa whoa! Stripe, I need a word with you. Where in the world are you going so quickly?” “Home, no time to talk!” “Hold it!” Stripe was starting to panic. He was unarmed and eight blocks from his home. He didn't need this obstacle right now. “Please!! Sir, I need to get home!” Zecorn couldn't even get him to stay to listen as he pushed and hurried past. “Sir!” Zecorn turned as he heard somebody new. “Iron? I thought I said...” “Please, I have grave news.”

Moments later, Stripe burst through his own front door before shutting it quickly behind him. Naturally, this would have awakened Artemisia had she not already been awake. “Where were you?” “No time to explain. Please, get dressed!” “Stripe. NO! Stripe! Stop! You're scaring me!” “We can't stay here! It's not safe. Pack some food and some clothes. We will stay in a hotel tonight and catch a train to Cervidas tomorrow.” “The deer kingdom? But you love the desert.” “I can't lose you! I love you too much. I think they may know.” Artemisia had never seen her husband so scared before. He had fought changelings and wild beasts in the desert. She'd watched him stare down a massive dragon without even flinching. Yet he was panicky and scared like a little foal.

A sound was heard outside and Stripe turned, “Hurry.” It was nothing more than his neighbor folding up a chair, but Stripe couldn't see that. Grabbing his mace and sword, he made sure they were strapped tightly to his flanks and under his robes. Turning to his wife, he walked over and kissed her. She felt his tongue around hers and tried to pull away when he stopped her. She could feel his love and passion and felt a little more invigorated. He broke it off a moment later. “You'll need the extra energy,” he answered the unasked question. Nodding, she saw the pendant in the kitchen and grabbed it as she saw him head out the back.

Kicking out part of the fence he had put up, Stripe glanced around to make sure the coast was clear before motioning towards the house. Artemisia lumbered out as quickly as she could. “Why this way?” “Don't trust the front. Put on your disguise.” Nodding, she closed her eyes and cast the spell as she felt her changeling body disappear piece by piece until she looked like a zebra once more. “Go, I'll be right behind you.” “Take this.” “What?” “This pendant is for you. It will always protect you.” He wanted to argue but simply nodded and let her slip it over his neck. He could feel the energies emanating from it as it came to rest against his fur.

Squeezing out the small hole in the fence was difficult, but Artemisia managed with a little bit of help from Stripe. The wood had cracked and broke a bit more than what Stripe had already kicked out, but it didn't attract any unwanted attention so he chose to simply just move on. Hurrying along using the back alleys and side streets, he lead his wife towards the train station. Glancing back when he was just a few blocks from the station, he saw nothing. His breathing began to quicken as he looked around when he heard heavy hoofsteps. He waited a moment and saw her round a corner. She was out of breath and looked strained. He saw her form seem to 'flicker' and he gulped. “Mia, you are losing your magic,” he whispered worriedly. “Changeling magic cannot be lost. But it does need to be recharged. Rest helps, but so does love and adoration. You know this.” Stripe was very worried, but he knew that hope was just around the corner. “I'll use my feelings of love for you once we have reached our destination for the night. It'll help you replenish your magic some so that we can board the train without issue.” Artemisia smiled and nuzzled his neck before following him the last few blocks to the station.

A smashing sound echoed out as a dozen zebra guards invaded Stripe's home. Zecorn was just outside the front door as his warriors checked it out. “Without your testimony, they never would have agreed to do it till tomorrow. I cannot believe she was literally right under our eyes this whole time. It's going to kill Stripe when he learns the female he truly loves is likely dead.” “Well, we'll soon have our buddy back and out of her control.” “Commander! There's nobody here. They appear to have left out the back. We noticed a hole in the fence.” “Close off the city. No one leaves till we find her.” “Understood!”

Sighing, the elder zebra warrior started to head off towards his home when he glanced towards the north. Scratching his chin, he turned to where Iron was standing, “What were your words on her? What did she look like?” “Easily as big as Mia if not bigger.” “Thank you. Take your warriors and head to the train station. One of the stallions that works there said someone paid for two tickets with 15 large rubies. Said they were frantic and appeared to be in a hurry.” “There is a train for Cervidas in the morning at seven. First thing.” Zecorn raised his hoof but stopped before he spoke as if picking his words very carefully. It was a long few moments before he finally spoke. “Wait until morning and then make your move on the platform. Also, make sure every zebra gets out of there safely. I don't need any civilian casualties.” Iron nodded and headed off to take care of it.

Watching him leave, Zecorn sighed once more. He wouldn't have become suspicious had he not seen her disguise flicker when she was buying food from one of the local vendors in the market. The vendor might have noticed had he not been preoccupied with another customer. Of course, the more he thought about it, the more he began to wonder why some of Stripe's neighbors hadn't been experiencing any problems. How they still seemed the same and not....'faded'. He'd heard reports of what those that live with changelings experience. How they become someone completely different until they are the exact opposite of what they used to be, dry and emotionless. Stripe still seemed to be full of emotional vigor though. But then again, maybe that was the whole idea. To not draw as much attention to herself because of her weight and her new need for more energy. Course, why would she even put on so much weight and then not find a source of power to better fuel the energies she was losing? Shaking his head, he decided it was too late and that he would need some sleep to take charge of her capture the following morning.

The night passes without incident and Stripe makes his way to the train station an hour before it is scheduled to leave. Trains were not allowed to travel the zebra lands after dark because of the threat of bandits. Even more so now because of the threat of changelings. Taking a deep breath, he motioned with his right hoof for Artemisia to follow him as they slowly approached the boarding platform.

Hiding just out of sight behind one of the nearby trains, Iron watches until he spots the exact being he had been waiting for. Nodding to the others, he walks out from behind it slowly. They were to stay in their position till he directed them otherwise.

Stripe had a very bad feeling about this. It was nearly seven and yet there was not one being here. No zebras, no ponies, no gryphons, no nothing. There wasn't even a conductor or engineer that he could see aboard the train. “HEY STRIPE!!” Turning his head, he saw Iron walking up. The gray striped zebra was walking slowly and carefully towards where he was. “You leaving?” “Yeah. Going to go visit my mother after all these years.” He knew the answer was a lie. His mother was in Equestria, not Cervidas. However, it was much easier to book a trip to Equestria from Cervidas due to the closer proximity across the ocean. “Really? Going to introduce her to your bride there?” “Yes. After all these years and all those embarrassing questions, she finally gets her answer.” “Too bad she'll have to mend her son's broken heart.”

Stripe froze when he heard those words. The next few moments were not going to be pleasant, that much was certain. “Why?” “That's not Mia.” Stripe turned to his wife and saw her look of fear. He had to keep a straight face and urged her to do the same with a stare. “She looks like Mia to me.” “Trust me, she is a vile creature!” Iron looked up and saw Zecorn standing on a balcony of the hotel. As the elder zebra turned to head inside, he looked back towards Stripe. “I hate to break it to you, but she is a changeling. SEIZE HER!!”

Flinging off his robe, Stripe stood in front of Artemisia as he tried to push her onto the train. Iron moved up and knocked him aside. “Fight it!! Don't be her slave!” A blast of magic hit the doorway as a zebra unicorn, more commonly referred to as a zebracorn, destroyed Artemisia's disguise. Panic had set in as she tried to back onto the train. “DON'T LET HER ESCAPE!!!”

Stripe looked up in horror as he saw one of his fellow zebras, one that he had saved twice in combat, hurl a spear. It was all in slow motion as the spear cut through the air like a knife could cut through skin. It was then he heard her scream in pain. Glancing up, he saw the spear had pierced her fore area, pierced her chest. Her eyes grew heavy as she mouthed, 'I love you,' before collapsing. Her green blood pooling around where she had fell.

Up on the balcony, Zecorn smiled, but for just a brief moment. Raising his right hoof to his chin, he watched as Stripe stood up. His form, his look, his general stance.......something was wrong. He hadn't saved Stripe as he had thought. Lowering his head as he grimaced, he knew precisely what was coming.

Iron smiled and tried to get Stripe to hoof bump with him. “Come on!! She's dead! Look, I'm sorry about Mia, I really am. But she has to have been dead for years.” “Wrong! You are no longer my friend!” Drawing his sword so swiftly and quickly, he slashed out with it as he turned his head. He felt the spray of something hot and sticky on his face as he saw Iron's head fall to the platform floor.

With another whip of his head, he threw the sword and nailed the zebra that had thrown the spear. Grabbing his mace, he charged into the ranks of the guards. Smashing a skull of the first, he felt the bones crunch and the blood spray onto his form. His fur was slowly getting redder from the blood splatter as his mind turned from sorrow to anger. Zebras were quick to anger and viewed vengeance as the ultimate form of justice.

Zecorn could only watch from his perch on the balcony as his best and strongest began to fight his own kind. Stripe was hurting. All he saw was red as he sought to end those that had taken everything from him. It wouldn't bring her back, but it would make him feel better....or so he hoped. Over the past few years, Artemisia had taken a more pacifistic view to fighting and violence. She came to hate and deplore it. But even that couldn't soothe Stripe's now aching heart.

The clash of metal is heard as he brings his mace down on the shield a zebra was holding. Stripe now had the bit of tied rope at the end wrapped around his hoof to better wield it and put more force and power behind each and every strike. Knocking the shield away, he smashes yet another zebra skull as the bone crunches and the blood splatters everywhere. Seeing the zebracorn take an offensive position, he grabs the shield and takes a defensive as the zebracorn fires. The metal shield deflects the magic several times before Stripe is knocked back. He throws the mace and misses his target when he feels something sharp pierce his armor and his side.

A spear was now protruding from his side as he struggled to get up before falling down. It was then, the other zebras stopped. Zecorn had hurried up and had stopped the fight. 7 zebra warriors lay dead on the platform and stairs leading up to the platform. The dead changeling queen was still somewhat wedged into the door on the train. Zecorn had made a mistake. He realized it too late that he had killed someone that genuinely loved Stripe. Someone he truly did care for. It was his remorse that had him call off the guards. He gave silent motions to get a doctor and get him patched up.

“What do we do with him?” “Let me worry about that,” Zecorn replied to the zebracorn. “Just get him patched up. Then put him on the first train to Cervidas. And give him this. Or give it to someone that can give it to him when he awakens,” Zecorn ordered as he produced a letter.

A New Life

When Stripe next awoke, he found himself aboard a train that was speeding along. When he tried to sit up, he felt pain and was forced to lie back down. On a nearby bench was his armor, a few bags with his things, the pendant that Artemisia had given him and his weapons. Atop them was the shield he had picked up during the fight. His eyes were drawn towards the pendant. It was the last thing she had ever given him. He was now alone with no wife, no home and just his thoughts for company. Even if he wanted to, he couldn't stop the tears that were now beginning to flow as if the floodgates from a dam had just been opened to unleash the raging torrents from the backed up water. His mother was gone, probably hidden in Equestria somewhere. And his wife.....she was just gone.

It was a very sobering and heartwrenching moment for him as he just sat there and cried. He would never have a family of his own. His own kind had taken that away from him because of their prejudices. Had he been there sooner for her, she might not have been discovered and they would have had more time to escape. Had he properly protected her, she would still be alive. Instead, he had failed. The first time he had ever failed and he failed in the worst way possible. He had failed to protect the one he loved.

As the scenery rolled on by, Stripe cast a glance out one of the nearby windows. There was still desert outside, but there were also mountains in the distance. The terrain was becoming much more rocky. The signaled that the zebra lands were behind him and he had entered the camel lands. A typical train trip from Caibra to the edge of Cervidas was about six to seven hours depending on what the weather was like and other extenuating circumstances.

“So, you must be that changeling lover, Stripe.” Hearing this, he cast a glance to see who had spoken. A somewhat older zebra wearing the uniform of a conductor loomed over him as he no doubt made his own silent judgments. Glancing away, Stripe remained silent and refused to give the other zebra any sort of satisfaction. “Here! Your commander said to give you this when you woke up. Why in the world they didn't kill you is beyond me. You killed your own kind. You're no better than that fat fucking changeling they killed.” “I'd watch your tone conductor. Unless you want bucked out the window, I would suggest you leave.” The older zebra raised an eyebrow and simply shook his head before leaving. Despite the younger zebra's injuries, he knew that staying would have been a mistake. So, he resigned himself to simply leave the zebra killer alone.

Stripe looked down at what the conductor had dropped. It was an envelope. There was nothing on the outside to really explain or show who had written it. It was just a simple envelope that looked like it had a folded piece of paper inside. Opening it, he saw it was a letter from his mother. She was still alive. What's more, it seemed she was living in a place called Everfree on the edge of some small town he'd never heard of.

'I am writing to you dear one, in the hope I may see my son. I have much to tell, but I hope you are doing well. If you ever wish to visit me, look no further than Everfree. The ponies have much to learn, but I hope you will soon have your turn. You could never sit still, so I implore you to come and visit Ponyville. If these words cross your eyes, do not fret and simply rise. Always loving you and your lost brother, your dear sweet mother.'

He looked up from the letter as tears filled his eyes once more. He'd never known that he'd had a brother. He'd already lost his wife only to find out he had lost a brother somewhere along the line too. His mother was still alive though. But she was all the way over in Equestria and he had yet to even get to Cervidas. As it was, this was the farthest he had ever been from home in his entire life. He still didn't know what to tell his mother in regards to his now dead wife.

Smashing his hoof on the bench he rested on, he looked back towards where he knew Zebrafrica was. They had taken her from him. And what's worse, they never even gave him a chance to properly bury her. They probably just rolled her into some local dump to let her rot under the desert sun like every other changeling that they killed.

As the train continued on towards it's inevitable destination, the young warrior zebra tried to rest. He was still tired from his injuries, but he could never stay asleep. Hours had passed since he had read the letter and the rocky terrain of the country that belonged to the camels was starting to give way to forests and trees. If he was not in Cervidas yet, he soon would be.

Standing up, he flinched as his side still throbbed from where he had been impaled. He was lucky that it hadn't killed him outright. Of course, if he were the superstitious type, he might had attributed that to the pendant that Artemisia had given him. Picking up said pendant, he slid it back over his neck as he moved on to his clothes. Putting on his tight undershirt, he next slid on his leather armor. Looking over it, he could see and feel the hole in both the undershirt and the armor where the spear had pierced him. Putting the scabbard and sheath on was always a little challenging, but he always managed to do so. Granted, it was a little harder this time around due to his injuries, but he made do. Once he had his weapons in place at either side, he looked through his bags to see what he had been given.

In the first, there were a few items that he knew belonged to Artemisia when she had been alive. Namely, her large robe and her own pendant. The one she had always worn when out in the town. As his face sunk once more, he picked up her pendant and slid it over his neck as it fell into place above the one she had given him. Like the other, he felt a slight influx of what he could only describe as magic before the feeling vanished once again.

Closing the first bag, he opened the second one and found his items. Among them were two sacks that jiggled and jostled and jingled. Obviously, they were his final payment. Opening the first revealed rubies. And upon counting, he found fifteen. All fifteen had been returned to him. He didn't know why they would give him his money back, but he didn't bother to question it. The other one, of course, carried a mass of bits. There was easily several hundred in it. Course, he knew it was five hundred. Every month, he was paid five hundred bits for his service in the Zebrafrican Military because of all the risks he took to help them. Well, all the risks he had took. Never again would he do anything for them.

Meanwhile, further ahead, in the bustling capital of Albucka, a young cervine prince was stretching his legs as he rocked his head back and forth. Like most young bucks, he had a nice set of antlers atop his head and he appeared lean and agile. He was also a little stockier than most with a little bit of extra muscle. His father, the king, expected a lot out of him.

Today was no different. He had been given orders by his father to take two dozen strong bucks and stags to the train station to deal with an incoming passenger. Two letters had been sent by zebracorn magic. One directly from the high council of the zebras and one from one commander in particular. The first had elaborated on what the passenger had done and ordered him to be dealt with. The second had simply requested that he be sent to Equestria since he had family there.

“Pierce. Prince Pierce!” Shaking his head at having his musings interrupted, he turned to look at one of the older stags. “I'm sorry, what?” “What are your orders in dealing with our new friend when he arrives?” Pierce took a deep breath and held it for quite a long period of time before exhaling as he turned towards the stag. Looking at the other guards, most of which had bows around their necks and quivers at their sides, he sighed. “My father told me to deal with him how I saw fit. When I saw the first letter, I found it hard to believe that he would kill his own kind. And he killed them over a changeling (whatever that is). Typically, zebras do not marry outside of their kind.” “Sir, we've had reports of similar creatures in our lands. Not high in number and usually they don't last long. They are masters of disguise and seem to feed off of emotions.” “Could one reciprocate the love given?” “If the reports we have from the borders in Equestria and what we've seen in Zebrafrica, then the answer would appear to be no. However, I believe that anything can learn to love.”

The screeching of brakes was heard as Pierce cocked his head to the left. “The train will be here in about twenty minutes. It's going through Reindeer Pass.” “What are your orders?” “We'll give him a ride to Equestria, but not for free. We'll put him to work here so he can earn his fare for his trip.” The stag nodded as the others got into position to protect their prince. Pierce rolled his eyes at this. The main reason was that he too was armed. Like many of his fellow warriors, he had a bow around his neck and a quiver by his side. However, he also had a rare Buckskin Scimitar. A very unique blade used by the most agile bucks for close quarters combat. His father had insisted he learn to use both it and the bow since he would not always be there to protect his own son. “Sway, I want you to give him a position that can earn money fast. Not one of our guards or soldiers, he already blew that.” “How about a blacksmith?” Pierce nodded and approached as he awaited the train to come into view.

Aboard the train, Stripe saw the skyline of a city. It wasn't a large city and most of the buildings look like they were trees converted into towering homes and businesses. As the station itself came into view, he saw a contingent of cervine guards and warriors standing by the platform. All had grim looks on their faces and he half expected them to be the ones to execute him. He did notice the one in the center, one that had a sort of small crown made out of wooden on his head and around his antlers. “That must be their king, or at the very least a prince.”

The screeching of the brakes echoed out as the train pulled to a complete stop. He watched as the other doors opened and saw some bucks, does and some zebras exiting. There was even a pony or two amongst the group when he saw the door to his car open.

“There,” the prince pointed with his hoof as a few of the bucks armed with scimitars approached where Stripe stood. The zebra seemed uncertain and looked ready to draw one of his weapons. “I wouldn't do that if I were you. My name is Prince Pierce,” he stated as chuckling seemed to echo out amongst some of the guards around him. He rolled his eyes as if he seemed to know what they were laughing at and continued. “I was sent a couple of letters by those you used to report to. You have been exiled from your land and it was requested that you be imprisoned. Personally, I don't see the point of both exiling and imprisoning, but that is just me. I know not what my father thinks on such matters, but he may have the same sentiment as he left it up to me to decide your fate. However, I must state that only the first letter made the mention of you being imprisoned. The second seemed to be from a singular being instead of a war council. I do know you have a singular leader and your council is not called that, so do not feel you have to correct me. But, the second letter seemed to be requesting that you be sent to Equestria.”

Stripe was a little confused. He had kind of an idea as to why it would be suggested that he be sent to Equestria and who probably sent the letter. But there was no way his former commander would go out on a limb like that. Especially after he had attacked his own people.

Pierce seemed to notice the confusion of the young zebra and smiled as he motioned for some of the bucks to return to their posts back in the city. Turning back towards the young zebra, he smiled and said, “Come.”

Following the young cervine prince, Stripe had to wonder what the young buck had in mind. “We are working to arrange for your transport to Equestria. Currently, there are two methods. By boat, and by airboat.” “What's an airboat?” “A design given to us by the ponies to use for transport. We don't use it for quite the same things that they do. We mainly use it as a cheap form of fast travel across the lands and ocean. It's basically a gigantic balloon filled with hot air or gas attached to schooner. Some of the more impressive ones are attached to old galleons.” “How can something so heavy float?” “I've given up trying to understand it myself. Deer and zebra magic is not quite the same as pony magic. But, there are enough similarities to make such things work. The exact processes are unknown to me and a bit above my learning capabilities. So, I simply go with what works and don't question it.”

The zebra was humbled by how humble this prince was. He never out and out claimed to be intelligent, fierce or anything else. He just said he was royalty due to his father being royalty and that he just simply went with the world. “How much for a trip over to Equestria?” “2 large rubies for a singular boat ticket. 5 for an airboat ticket. Also, I must mention that gems are much easier to find in Equestria. Because of that, their value is virtually the same as a singular gold bit regardless of size. Only those of substantial size and weight hold value of anything more than that. So, if it is a little larger than your hoof or smaller, it's value is about the same as a bit.” “That's certainly a difference,” Stripe noted and saw the prince nod.

As they entered the city proper, Stripe saw a very strong and stocky looking stag forging the lightweight armor that zebras used. He could also forge weapons and everyday household items. “This is Ironsmith, you'll be working with him to earn your fare.” “You said 5 large rubies?” Upon hearing the question, Pierce looked down to a sack Stripe pulled out. In it was a number of large rubies. The jangling of another sack signaled that he had quite a few bits as well. “I guess you don't need to work. So, you wish to go there by air?” “No. I'd also rather not have to cross an ocean, but I don't have much choice, do I?” “Nope. You'll either cross the ocean on it or far above it.” “Which is faster?”

The answer, was rather obvious, but Pierce did think a little before responding. “About 8 hours flight time with a stop at Roe Island and Gallopfrey. The trip by boat is a few days at least depending on the weather.” “I thought it was weeks.” “No, not even close. It can take upwards of 5 days from our northern coast and probably closer to a couple of weeks if you leave from one of our western coasts. But it typically doesn't take all that long. We pride ourselves over making our airboats and ships faster than any other species. After all, the deer are known for their agility and speed.”

As they traveled further into the city, Stripe couldn't help but glance around as he tried to take in every single thing he could. Trees as high as the tallest mountains he had ever seen with trunks easily as thick as some of the widest buildings he had seen in Zebrafrica. There were many local deer hurrying about. All appeared to have armor or practical clothing on. There were a number of does, but none were fat. All were very lithe and agile. A few had a bulging belly, but he attributed that to pregnancy. “We don't have quite the same views as the zebras do. Very few deer are heavy. In the zebra lands, a zebra with prosperity is very strong or very heavy, depending on what role they took. Here, a deer with prosperity is well trained with a bow because they can afford the training. Only those selected as warriors and guards have their training paid for. All the others must pay to be taught by some of our best.” “Because those best are not protecting the lands, right?” “Correct.”

“Here we are,” the prince finally stated as he looked up. Stripe saw walkways far above and noticed a stairwell that wrapped around a large tree easily as thick as that train station he arrived at. Pierce was seen starting to walk up the stairs when he stopped. Stripe hesitantly followed. He was not really for heights and he did not like deep water. As a zebra, he rarely came across large bodies of water since there were only a few in all of Zebrafrica.

Each step up was a step closer to the raised platforms where the airboats rested. They did actually look like someone had taken a sail boat and removed all the masts before taking a gigantic balloon and attaching it with strong ropes to ship. His mind kept going over how it shouldn't work and how it shouldn't be afloat in the air like it was. How could beings get over being so high from the ground? On a mountain it wasn't so bad because at least you had ground beneath your hooves. Up in the air, there was nothing.

When they finally reached the platforms, Pierce whistled to attract the attention of those around. “Which ship is going to Equestria?” Several of the deer present raised their hooves. “I want your charts so I can see where you are going.” The four that had raised their hooves hurriedly gathered their charts and manifests of cargo (those that had cargo), and rushed them to the prince. Taking the clipboard in his right hoof, he sat down on a nearby crate and looked through it. “We have two going to Fillydelphia, 1 going to Stableside and the last is heading to Stalliongrad.”

“Which one is closest,” Stripe asked as he looked towards the prince. “Well, Fillydelphia is the only one that will more or less be straight north from here. It will take several days to reach Stalliongrad and of course, Stableside is about the same distance. But, Fillydelphia is much closer to Ponyville.” “You know where it is?” “No. I've just heard it isn't far from Canterlot and Fillydelphia isn't too far from Canterlot.”

“I can drop him off at Canterlot if you want,” one of the bucks stated. “That won't be necessary. Our friend here has more than enough to buy himself a train ride to wherever he wants to go once you land.” “What will they say about my.......” “Your.....'quarrel' with your own kind?” Seeing Stripe nod, Pierce simply shook his head. “I wouldn't worry about it too much. They don't get much information from the zebra lands. In fact, aside from various foreign dignitaries of their own lands, they really don't talk to other species much. Sure, the gryphons some as well as my kind to a lesser degree. But, overall.....they try to keep to themselves. Sure, they'll welcome anyone to their land without a second thought. Some might be a little uncertain or even a little scared, but they are generally friendly.”

With that said, Stripe removed 5 rubies from one of his smaller sacks and handed them to the buck he would be riding with. He had ultimately chosen one that was delivering mainly cargo since he didn't want to be riding with a whole bunch of other beings.

However, as he began to board the ship, he spotted a sky blue pegasus seated on a nearby bench of sorts. Shaking his head, he took a deep breath and sat down on the first available seat he saw. “You going to Equestria?” The voice was melodic if a bit take charge and masculine. Looking up, he saw the pegasus had focused on him for some reason. “I guess.” The pegasus seemed a little taken aback by this as he seemed to have been stonewalled somewhat. He scratched his chin, no doubt trying to think of some topic of conversation. “Look, I don't want to seem rude or anything. But I really don't know who you are. I really don't care, and I am just looking to get this trip over and done with so I can get my hooves back on solid ground. Besides, you're a pegasus. Why can't you just fly to Equestria?” He was even more taken aback by this, and for several reasons it seemed.

“You've never heard of the Wonderbolts?” “Nope. Should I have?” The pegasus had looked about ready to answer that but stopped himself. Apparently, once outside of Equestria, his fame wasn't quite well known. He'd had a few issues as such in Cervidas, but nothing really big. Some of the nobles and other members of royalty had heard of him, but that was about it. “Well, I'm one of their more well known members. The name's Soarin,” he stated and extended his right hoof. He retracted it a few moments later because of the glance he got. “This was a brief vacation for me. It was supposed to be longer, but I got a memo from Spitfire to return to Equestria and active duty.” “How long have you been here?” “Three days. It was supposed to be three weeks.”

Sighing, Stripe got up and walked to a different part of the ship to sit down. He really didn't feel like talking with anyone. He just wanted to be left alone.

It wasn't long before the ship was underway and the land began to grow smaller beneath them as they got higher up in the sky. Stripe had learned from the captain that pegasus could only fly so far before they needed to stop and rest. So, flying over a large and open ocean was never a smart idea. So, they would often do what most ponies or other beings did, use transports. Either airboats, boats or trains depending on where they were going.

Stripe had had a lot of thoughts and ideas about ponies. Most were quickly turning about to be quite false. His other ideas and impressions were that they were incredibly stuck up. That they walked around with their noses so high in the air that a sudden rainstorm would drown them. But, of course, that wouldn't happen. Unlike in Zebrafrica, where rain was scarce and occurred very infrequently, rain was more commonplace and actually monitored. Teams of pegasai helped maintain the weather and would plan out how each week would go. Sunshine, clouds, fog, rain, thunder and lightning. Even the more severe forms of weather had their place and were utilized from time to time depending on the circumstances. “I'm going to try and get some sleep. Wake me when we get there.”

The captain simply nodded as he watched the zebra head below deck. Like the zebra, he had certain uncertainties about being high above the ground and in a boat no less. But, it was a proven practice and it was very effective at transporting both goods and beings across the ocean. Traditional boats worked well too, but they were far slower than a good airboat.

Down below, Stripe looked around. There were a few corridors and easily a dozen or so rooms. One of which is where the bulk of what was being carried lay, the cargo. Had he spent more time talking to the captain, he would have learned that the cargo vessels were among the fastest. Utilizing a combination of deer and pony magic to speed it up. This ship only had one stop before Fillydelphia, and that was Gallopfrey.

Opening the door to one of the rooms, he found it empty with a bed over near a porthole window. Walking over, he pulled the shade shut as he really did not feel like looking down to see a mass of water thousands of feet below. He then approached the mattress and tentatively poked and prodded it with his right hoof. He'd yet to sleep on an actual mattress, so it was something new for him. It was nice, soft and comfortable. It was almost like the soft and flabby form of Artemisia's chitin. Of course, that line of thinking soon had him feeling worse than he had mere moments ago for an entirely different reason.

Slipping under the covers, he rested his head on the pillow. This was also different as he had never personally had a pillow himself in his old home. Like the mattress, it was nice and soft. Closing his eyes, he tried to allow himself to go to sleep. However, a singular thought permeated his mind and prevented him from having any sort of restful sleep. Artemisia. He watched himself fail to protect her only to be berated for breaking his promise to keep her safe. He was berated by her, his mother, his commander and all those he viewed as family. He was also judged for being a changeling lover, a lover of monsters. It seemed unbelievably short and infinitely long. Waking with a start, he falls over the side and finds himself falling. The mass of blue coming into focus as it dawns on him it is the ocean. With his four legs flailing, he strikes the water with a loud splash and finds himself struggling to swim as the water covers his head. Looking down, he sees an ominous shape approaching as he tries to scream.

With a loud crash, Stripe finds himself on the floor of the room he was in. His fur was damp and sticky. His head was throbbing and his heart was aching. Looking up towards the porthole, he saw the shade was still down. “Why does has this world decided to hate me so much?”

“You okay?” The voice belonged to the one that had called himself Soarin. He recognized it from his brief conversation at the start of the trip. Well, before the trip had officially started anyways. “Yeah, just peachy.” Whether or not Soarin recognized the sarcasm, Stripe couldn't tell. But he heard hoofsteps walking away and noted that the pegasus was leaving him alone. Laying back down on the bed, he pulled his blanket up and over to try and get some more sleep.

When he next awoke, it was to someone knocking on the door. “Hey!! Approaching Fillydelphia!” It was the captain. Shaking his head, he was glad he couldn't remember much of what he had dreamed as he doubted it had been anything good.

Outside on the deck, it was nighttime. A few lanterns about the deck kept things lit up as the ship steered downwards towards where Fillydelphia was. Stripe exited from below and looked around. He could make out the faint outlines of tree tops all around. He'd heard that Equestria had it's fair share of beautiful grassy plains as well. A good portion of food that they got was from Equestria. Shipped from Equestria to Cervidas by airboats and then from Equestria to various locations in Zebrafrica by train. That's not to say that all of their produce was from Equestria. A decent portion of it was also from Cervidas. But, Equestria was legendary in just how bountiful it's lands were.

Looking around, he knew that his mother was here someplace. “In about five minutes, we'll be landing and then you can make your way further inland. Where you going?” “My mother mentioned a place called Ponyville.” The captain shrugged as he gave a sheepish expression. “Sorry, don't quite know where that's at. You might try asking some of the locals when we land. Course, Pierce did mention it wasn't far from Canterlot. Maybe you should go there.” “What's in Canterlot?” “Well, the ruling body of Equestria. Two princesses.......I think,” he stated and put his hoof to his chin. “A thousand years ago it was two, then one. I think it is two again as I recall seeing something about Nightmare Moon being reformed,” he noted as he tapped his hoof on his chin. Giving another shrug, he shook his head. “I don't bother too much with Equestrian politics. I've got enough trouble keeping up with Cervine politics.”

As the ship eventually came in for a landing, Stripe felt more than a little queasy at the rocking. He saw Soarin looking more than a little ready as he flexed his wings. “You going to fly home now?” “Nope. I'm going to catch a train to Canterlot and then fly to Cloudsdale from there.” Stripe nodded and worked to steady himself as the ship finally landed. The sound was a little unnerving, but not to terribly bad.

As the gangplank was lowered, the few passengers that had been aboard made their way off the boat and onto the platform. Their luggage in saddlebags or simple suitcases and duffel bags that could be easily carried. Stripe's own pair of duffel bags were easy enough to carry. He had one draped over his neck and shoulder while he carried the other in his mouth. He really didn't feel like talking much, so it worked.

However, not knowing one's way around a foreign land without talking can have more than a few problems in it's own right. In order to get from place to place, you needed to know where you were going. If you don't know where you are going, than you need to be able to ask for directions. Granted, some beings are a little too proud to ask for directions. But, most usually have the ability to do so when they are finally forced to relent and ask someone.

As Soarin checked his saddlebags, he pulled something out to examine before looking up towards a sign. The sign was written in a plain language, so Stripe could understand it. Actually, if it was written in one of three languages, he could understand it. He understood the basic language, the one used by native zebras and of course he knew bits and pieces of the changeling language.

On the sign were some directions to a few various places in the city. The one Stripe took the most notice of was the arrow pointing towards the train station. Seeing that Soarin was heading the same way, he opted to follow the pegasus for the time being. It was then that he noticed something. Every single pony he saw had some sort of mark over their flanks. He'd noted zebras had intricate designs of their stripes over their flanks as opposed to the basic zebra stripe that crossed over their bodies. In his entire life, he had only ever seen one pony in Zebrafrica, and she'd been wearing a robe so the mark had been covered, whatever it was.

As the city street teemed with life, Soarin couldn't help but notice he was being followed. Course, since he was heading for the train station, maybe he wasn't really being followed. Still, it was more than a little unnerving for him as he kept looking back towards the zebra. He'd initially tried to be friendly, but the zebra hadn't wanted to be friendly and had merely shrugged him off. Now, that same zebra appeared to at at least be following him to the train station.

Finally, he could take it no longer and stopped before turning around. “You rejected any attempt at friendship up on that ship. So why are you following me?” Setting the bag he was carrying in his mouth down, he sighed. “Look. My mother is in this country somewhere. I don't exactly know where. She lives in Ponyville. I was told to check out Canterlot and go from there since the rulers here may have some information.” “Who is your mother?” “I don't know her name. I just know she is a zebra that always rhymes.” Soarin shook his head. “Well, I can tell you I know Ponyville quite well. I am also very familiar with Canterlot. What are you going to do for work?” Stripe hesitated before answering. Obviously, this pegasus didn't really know him or what had happened. “I was a warrior. A soldier if you will.” “Oh, you mean like a guard?” “Yeah, I guess.” “Maybe my friend Shining Armor can help you. He's the head of the Royal Guard in Canterlot. What's your name?” “Stripe.” “Well, as I said before, I'm Soarin. This way.”

Stripe picked his bag back up and continued to follow the pegasus up to the train station. The train to Canterlot hadn't arrived yet, so the pair simply bought their tickets and then sat down to wait. “What initially made you decide to come to Equestria?” This was not a question Stripe wanted to answer and his look said it. He simply frowned and looked towards his hooves as he stood there. Soarin sat on his bench for a few long moments before he figured out that perhaps, something had happened, something bad. “What happened?” “I was betrayed.” The quickness of his answer combined with the tone suggested something deeply painful for the zebra. Soarin didn't really know how to feel. He felt kind of bad, but he couldn't accurately say why.

An obvious sound attracted their attention to the right as a train was seen approaching. “You know why they cut your vacation so short?” Soarin shook his head as he approached the train and then waited for everypony to exit before he entered. Stripe followed moments later and watched as the pegasus sat down on a bench near the front of the car. He pointed to the one directly across from him and watched as Stripe sat down.

“We'll be getting going here in a few moments,” he replied to the unasked question. Stripe simply nodded as he looked out the window at the city. He could see dozens of ponies walking about. They were all going about their day without a care in the world. They looked happy, peaceful, and absolutely serene. Not one could understand the pain he felt. He was also hesitant to mention why he was pained so much. Some of the changeling reports he had gathered from those he'd dealt with in the desert had mentioned that a large portion of their hive had been in Equestria. It didn't mention much. Just that they were in Equestria and planning something big.

“You okay? You look depressed.” It had more or less been mentioned several times already, but Soarin couldn't help but feel that he needed to help. The zebra needed help and so far, he was the only one that had actually extended a hoof in friendship. Sure, it had been more or less rejected initially. But, it appeared he was at least trying now.

“I'm fine. The sooner I get to my mother, the better.” Soarin may not have been one of the smartest ponies around. But even he knew when somepony was lying about something. It was as obvious as the nose on his own face. “Look, you're not giving me the whole story.” “I don't think you could understand the whole story.” “Try me.” “Look, I appreciate your willingness to help. But in regards to what I am feeling, there is nothing you can do. They took her away from me because she was.....different.” The look on Soarin's face said it all. He understood. Maybe not completely, but he understood. “What made her different? Was she a pony?” “No. Nor a dragon or gryphon.” Soarin rubbed his chin. As far as what he knew, that had eliminated all the species he was familiar with aside from a few. “She wasn't a deer and she wasn't a camel either. She's something we've been fighting for the past few years off and on. Although over the past year, things have really stepped up.”

With a rocking lurch, the train began to move as Soarin looked towards his new traveling companion. He could understand why they might be uncertain about a being that they were at war with. But surely not every being was an enemy.

It was fast becoming apparent to Stripe that changelings were still unknown to most of Equestria. Because if some of their most influential military leaders knew not about them, then it was unlikely the populace even had an opinion yet. At least, not much of one. Taking a chance, he pulled out a photo he had. He'd taken it several weeks ago before he'd been sent out into the desert again. The camera had belonged to his former friend and commander, Zecorn. He'd returned it after he had gotten the picture. He'd tried several times to use it to get both himself and her. Of course, some locals had helped, but that was just her disguised as a zebra.

Soarin saw the picture. He couldn't see what was on it just yet, but he knew it was of somepony important. “That her?” “Yeah,” Stripe responded as he managed to pull out another picture. He showed that one first. The pegasus looked it over. In it he could see a nice and happy looking zebra warrior. He was youthful, pleasant and appeared very strong as evident by his stance, armor, and weapons. Beside him was a large zebra mare. She had a luxurious red mane that looked like it could pass for velvet as it looked that soft. Her belly was enormous, maybe half a foot or so from the ground. Her muzzle was a little dirty with what looked like the remnants of some confections she had recently consumed. “So, you like the big ones, eh?” Putting it down, he smiled when he saw the second picture lying face up on the table.

Stripe remained silent as Soarin studied it. His expression hard to decipher as he glanced over every part. The black carapace of a body. That thick exoskeleton that appeared softer than what it should have been. Her red mane was still noticeable, but it appeared less like a traditional mane and more like the outer covering of an insect. She looked nasty. But, she also looked warm and friendly. Her face had a warm and comforting smile. Her muzzle was a little stocky and had a cute double chin because of her fatter form. Her twisted horn did look nasty, but that and her general appearance looked disturbing. Her body shape and the look on her face were the exact opposite. “You loved her, didn't you?”

Stripe didn't respond. He simply pulled the picture back up and put it along with the other back into one of his bags. Soarin just nodded as he took notice of the changeling pendants around Stripe's neck. “What are those?” “Gifts.” Again, Soarin nodded as he turned his attention to the beautiful landscape of Equestria. He loved to fly here. The ability to see everything from the sky and be given the proverbial bird's eye view was one of the main things he absolutely loved about being a pegasus. If given a chance, he might try being an earth pony or even a unicorn. He'd never keep the form though as being a pegasus was in his blood. However, experimenting might be fun if he were given half a chance.

The trip was uneventful for the most part. Unbeknownst to Stripe, the train would be passing through Ponyville. It wouldn't be stopping though. This train was going straight through and on to Canterlot. “Look, you may want to get some rest. It's going to be a little while before we reach Canterlot.” “How long?” “About an hour and a half or so. Depends on whether we stop at Ponyville or not.” “Ponyville?” “Yeah. We'll be passing through the town on the way to Canterlot. Sometimes the train stops and sometimes it doesn't.” “What's the difference?” “Express.” Stripe just shook his head. This was a whole new world to him and he doubted he'd be able to adapt and get used to it. It was just too strange. Add in that he was still trying to figure out the whole cutie mark thing. He'd overheard a mention of such a thing and didn't know what it was. However, he did quickly figure it out when he happened to take notice of a rather portly looking mare with a pair of cherries on her flank. Her cherry red mane and tail were a nice touch.

Soarin had seen his gaze and had a comment on the tip of his tongue, but he refrained from saying anything. He figured that if Stripe wanted to say something, he would. However, the zebra simply remained silent as he glanced around the train at other beings that were aboard. There actually wasn't that many that he could see. A few stallions, about six mares plus the conductor as he checked over the tickets of all that were aboard before moving onto the next car.

A short while later, the whistle was heard blowing which signaled they were nearing a town. The train didn't slow, so Soarin simply leaned back to relax more. “We're on the express. If you want to see the town properly, then you may want to head over to the right side and look out one of those windows.”

Biting his tongue, Stripe walked across the aisle over to another pair of benches as he looked out the window. He could spot several buildings long before he ever saw a bulk of the town. He spotted what he could only guess was the town hall. It looked a little bit in disrepair, but he didn't say anything. He also noticed some of the locals walking around. A big red stallion was seen pulling a cart full of apples with a smaller amber colored one with a blonde mane and tail beside him. Getting distracted for a moment, Stripe glanced back out the window. As the train slowed slightly to better get past the station without problems, he was given the opportunity to better look around. He'd have maybe a few moments, but he decided to use every second he got.

Further glancing around revealed some of the other locals. He spotted a large oak tree towards the back. Most of it was impossible to see because of other buildings in the way, but he could at least see the top and a balcony it had. He had briefly caught a glimpse of some curious looking building with a white unicorn out front. She had a purple mane and tail curled to perfection and kind of reminded him of Artemisia as her mane and tail were often curled somewhat when in her zebra disguise. It was then his eyes zoomed in on one being in particular. A purple colored unicorn was seen talking to zebress. He saw her mane in that mohawk style and noticed her somewhat aged if youthful appearance. “Mom.” Putting his right forehoof on the window, he watched as the town continued to move on by as the train kept moving.

His eyes were directed skyward briefly as he saw a somewhat rainbow colored blur soaring past. “That would be Rainbow Dash.” Stripe glanced to his right and saw Soarin had moved to the pair of benches just to his right. “Who's she?” “One of the Elements of Harmony. I'm surprised more folks in Equestria are unfamiliar with them after the events with Nightmare Moon and Discord.” Stripe looked confused and Soarin simply chuckled with a 'Long story', comment. “So, who are these.....Elements?” “Well, you just saw Rainbow Dash flying overhead. The other five include a pegasus, two earth ponies and two unicorns. The other pegasus is supposedly soft spoken from what I've heard. Her name is Fluttershy.”

A loud sound echoed out as Soarin laughed. “I guess she's Rainbow is practicing. She wants to join us.” Stripe simply nodded. “You mentioned four others?” “Yes. The two unicorns. Ah, there they are over there,” he stated and pointed towards the purple and white unicorns Stripe had seen moments before. They were visible for a moment before disappearing behind the buildings as Ponyville was soon left behind. “The purple one is called Twilight Sparkle. She's a student of sorts under Celestia. One of the best I am told. The other one, Rarity, is a dress designer hoping to make it big. She's already made quite a name for herself here in Ponyville and almost caused an incident when she knocked me and two of my fellow Wonderbolts unconscious. I really don't want to completely go into that as it is more than a little embarrassing.” “And the last two?” “Applejack and Pinkie Pie. Applejack is part of a family in Ponyville that has one of the biggest apple orchards in all of Equestria. They also make damn good apple pie.” Stripe simply gave him a look, but continued to listen as he retook his seat on the other side of the train. “Pinkie Pie is.......well, kind of hard to explain really. There are times when you just have to wonder what's going on inside her head,” he stated as he scratched the back of his head with one of his hooves. “Of course, sometimes, you'd rather not know what is going on inside her head. At the Gala, well......I don't know.”

“Anypony hungry?” Stripe looked towards where he saw a bright looking young mare with what looked like a trolley or cart as a cutie mark that was pushing a trolley loaded down with all sorts of snacks and food items. “Sure, I'll take some peanuts,” Soarin noted and took a bag of peanuts after giving her a couple of bits. Seeing the mare look towards him, Stripe waved his hoof to give her a voiceless signal that he wasn't hungry. Watching her head on to the next car, he sighed. He was actually quite hungry, but he really didn't feel like eating anything. He was still trying to get over a loss he had just suffered and it wasn't easy. What's more, is that aside from his own commander, none of his people seemed to realize just what sort of loss he had experienced. Sure, the deer seemed to be understanding and Soarin had seemed to understand, but they weren't his kind. Still, the one thing he still had was his mother. He had seen her there in Ponyville.

Still, the train continued on as Stripe just looked out the windows. Occasionally he would talk to Soarin. Of course those instances were usually no more than question and answer sessions. Mostly of Stripe asking questions about Equestria to which Soarin replied to the best of his knowledge. Some of his answers actually answered Stripe's questions whereas others just created more questions. Questions about Discord weren't really helpful in any way while questions about Nightmare Moon just made him think. Nightmare Moon sounded a lot like Artemisia, a being that was just simply misunderstood. But, she still wasn't Artemisia and had been reformed into who all here knew as Princess Luna. Though he did have to admit, Luna was a very pretty name.

It was then he was given one of the most breathtaking sights he had ever seen. He now had a very clear view of Canterlot and Canterlot Castle. The city was very impressive indeed. Large and tall buildings, some of which appeared to be very grand and noble in appearance yet were obviously fairly old. It was as if the beings that built it took old tried and true designs and then added a touch of modern flair to it. Course, the more modern flair was probably added recently given how old Soarin said Canterlot was.

It was actually early morning and he could see a tall figure high up on one of the towers. He couldn't tell who they were or even the gender. He just saw them standing there as the moon fully went down beyond the horizon before the sun came up. He then watched the dark figure walk back into the tower and disappear from sight. “Princess Luna.” Stripe turned towards Soarin as the pegasus nodded. “Pardon me a moment, I need to get dressed.” “What for?” “My duty.” Stripe nodded as he realized he'd probably just asked a stupid question as he sat back down and watched Soarin disappear into the next car.

Looking back out the window, he heard the whistle blow again as the train started to slow. He heard a call out from the conductor of them arriving at Canterlot and all going there to get ready to leave. Taking his bags, he decided to carry them over his shoulder and slung them around his neck and onto his back. It wasn't the most comfortable, but it worked. He made a mental note to buy saddlebags when he first got the chance. Walking up to the door, he sighed as he waited when he saw Soarin reenter. The sky blue pegasus was now adorned in a tight form fitting uniform of blue and yellow with matching goggles. “That doesn't look comfortable,” Stripe noticed. “Eh,” Soarin replied. “It's okay when flying through the air and moving at speed, but it is kind of uncomfortable most other times I will admit.”

Once the train had come to a complete stop, Stripe looked out over the massive city as he waited for the signal that they could get off the train. When it was given, he filed out with Soarin and the others as they walked out onto the platform. “Welcome to Canterlot,” Soarin stated and Stripe simply nodded as he looked around. “Everything here is so.....elegant. In Caibra, the only things that were elegant were the main buildings. Outside of that, it was just whatever was practical.” “Well, we like to think of ourselves as practitioners of beauty and practicality.”

A yell was heard and Stripe turned as he saw several heavily armored and armed ponies walking up. Stripe himself was fairly tall for a zebra. He was easily about even with Soarin, but these ponies looked like they could look down on him. “Soarin, so glad for you to be back!” The one that spoke was a white unicorn with a dark blue mane and tail with a stripe of light blue in both. “Glad to be back Shining Armor. Say, I'd like you to meet a new friend of mine. His name is Stripe.” The unicorn nodded and extended his hoof. Stripe reluctantly extended his own to shake hooves.

The Royal Wedding

With a motion of his left hoof, Shining Armor proceeded to lead the way into the city center. Soarin was walking beside the unicorn and talking as Stripe followed behind the whole troop of unicorn and earth pony guards. He couldn't quite hear what was being said, but from the way Shining Armor kept glancing back, it was obvious that he was more or less the center of the conversation.

Trying to keep his mind off of things, Stripe decided to look around. Everywhere he looked, he saw ponies walking around. He also noticed the occasional fountain down certain streets. The buildings were kind of squarish in design, which seemed about on par for most places he had visited in the world. But how they were crafted was simply stunning. So much care had to have been put into making walls of solid stone, marble and even in some places, what looked like gems. In Zebrafrica, not one zebra would be caught dead using gems as anything other than currency or really expensive jewelry. And the jewelry was mainly worn by the nobles and the politicians and military leaders. If any of the zebras below that mark was found with one, the outcome was usually not pretty.

“Stripe!” The zebra noticeably flinched at hearing his name called like such. He looked up to see the other guards had parted like water so that he could approach the unicorn that had mentioned his name. Soarin was seen saying something as the unicorn nodded before he took off. Sighing, Stripe slowly approached the unicorn and bowed. “Please, that's not necessary. My friend told me you were a warrior.” “I am.” “He also mentioned you left because you were betrayed by your own kind.” “Yes, that is also true.” “I'm sorry for your loss. I'm also sorry for seeming distracted. We just received word today that Canterlot is at threat from an attack. If you're a warrior, then I could use your help if you are willing to give it.” “He didn't tell you about my wife?” “Well, yes and no. He felt that that would ultimately be your choice. He did say she was not his first choice, but that it was apparent you loved her and she loved you in return.”

Hearing a sound, Stripe turned to see a pink alicorn approaching. He cast a glance back towards Shining Armor for a brief moment before returning his gaze to the new figure. “Stripe, this is my bride to be, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” Stripe simply raised his eyebrow slightly before shaking his head. She seemed a little upset about something and asked if she could have a word with him for a moment. Shining Armor nodded and told Stripe to wait a minute.

A few hours later and Stripe had sat down on a bench he saw nearby. The guards that had been there had left to return to their posts. Stripe was beginning to wonder if he was being toyed with when he saw the unicorn returning. “Sorry, that took a little longer than I thought.” “What?” “Well, I'm going to help you get adjusted some before I head to be with my fiance.” “Why does the sky look different now?” “Oh, I put a shield up and over the city. I want to do my best to protect everypony here. Now please, follow me.”

As Stripe fell in behind the white unicorn, he couldn't help but glance around some more as he took in the scenery. Just like before, he saw a lot of ponies walking about and going about their business. There were quite a few that looked pretty sophisticated with their noses held high. That was what he was familiar with in terms of what he had heard about Equestria from his fellow zebras. However, that only really seemed to fit some of those he saw around here. Soarin and Shining were anything but that. Shining's bride to be didn't quite seem to be an overly nice individual. That scowl she given him briefly had suggested something that was decidedly unfriendly.

The occasional whistle or hoof stomp was enough to keep Stripe in step behind this unicorn. Of course, he never really faltered much even as he was constantly glancing around at the surrounding environment. In moments, he lost view of most of the city as he was lead into a large area in the castle. This was obviously a barracks of sorts as evidenced by some of the rooms he saw on either side of the corridor he now found himself walking through. “I'll get you set up in my old room. You can then put away your things.” “And afterwards?” “You'll wait till I return or you are called, whichever comes first.”

Once at the room in question, Stripe saw Shining Armor motion towards a nearby bed before pointing to some nearby dressers and cabinets. “Get your things squared away. Sharp Steel!” A large gray furred unicorn was seen approaching in that same armor he'd seen on most of the guards around here. Only Shining's was different with that top part reminding him of some of his own Zebrafrican generals. “Yes sir.” “See to it our new recruit here gets a proper suit of armor.” “A zebra, sir?” “With the threat of attack, we need every body we can get our hooves on. Soarin said he was a warrior. Besides, we've heard of a few local zebras that are friendly.” “Fair enough,” the gray furred unicorn replied as Shining left. With just this new unicorn and himself, Stripe felt decidedly uneasy.

When the gray unicorn eventually left, he did feel a little better. Setting his bags on his bed, be began to pull his things out to put away. Once the bags were empty, he looked over his Zebrafrican shield. It was nothing like any of the ones the Canterlot guards had. In fact, his was a little deformed from resting on his back with a heavy duffel bag over it for much of the trip. It wasn't the strongest metal, but it did what it was supposed to do.

Outside the room, he heard a whistle and saw the gray unicorn had returned. “Follow me.” As Stripe followed the guard, he was lead into a large room full of a vast assorted array of suits of armor along with a number of swords and spears in racks. “Over here,” the stallion pointed with his hoof towards a smaller suit of armor. “Weapons, you.....oh,” the stallion began when he saw that Stripe was armed. “I see you have some weapons.” “I just need a shield. My old one is.......broken.” “How strong are you?” Stripe didn't really understand how to answer such a question. He knew the meaning of the word strength, but he doubted it was the same as how ponies viewed strength. His will was incredibly strong and he had a fierce determination to survive. His physical strength was probably on par with most zebras, but he knew not the physical strengths of most ponies. In fact, aside from the guards, he thought that most ponies weren't overly strong, just strong willed or with strong egos.

Sharp Steel saw a simple shrug and nodded as he excused himself for a moment. Stripe removed his leather armor and his undershirt while carefully setting his weapons aside. Piece by piece, he put on the new golden armor of the Royal Canterlot Guard. It fit surprisingly well and wasn't completely uncomfortable. The metal felt cold unlike the warmth of the leather armor and undershirt that he was used to. However, it was tolerable. Looking forward, he put his pendants back on before sliding on his new helmet. Attaching his scabbard and sheath was again a little difficult, but much easier since the Canterlot armor had places for such things. His Zebrafrican armor had to have such things added.

Looking up, he saw the gray unicorn returning. “I've had some shields brought for you to try out.” The main type of shield used by the Canterlot Royal Guard was a large rectangular almost square type of shield. It had the symbol of the sun in the center. Of course, the Night Guard shields were a little different, but he couldn't see any on the table. One stood out to him though. It was a large shield that wasn't circular or square like with many. It almost looked like one of the ones used by the fabled dragon knights. Compared to his current stature, it was a little big. “I'm afraid this shield is a little big for you my boy.”

What neither noticed was the two pendants he was wearing and how they were glowing a faint green. A faint green aura seemed to surround him as he felt his form thicken and grow stronger. The gray unicorn had turned to speak with another guard that had entered. As they talked, Stripe's form continued to grow. His hooves became stronger and thicker while his form looked stronger and a little bit more muscular. His eyes flashed a bright green briefly as his armor grew with his form so that things didn't become 'cramped'. He finally stopped when he was maybe a little thicker in the chest than the gray unicorn before him. He also stood about eye level now where he had been a head or so below. When Sharp Steel turned around, he did a double take as he looked over the zebra. Stripe had a good idea what had caused his growth and merely patted the two pendants. “I guess they were more than just....sentimental gifts, though there is no shortage of sentiment for them.”

Obviously, more explanations would be needed, but for now he didn't have to elaborate any further as he took the larger more elegantly designed shield and slid it onto his back. Sharp Steel simply nodded and cleared his throat when he heard a comment out in the hallway. He immediately stood at attention as a long and slender white leg entered followed by the rest of the pony attached to it. A large alicorn as slender and grand as what Soarin had said. Her flowing rainbow of a mane looked almost like an ethereal rainbow with unparalleled beauty. However, he didn't give her much glance before he bowed.

“My name is Princess Celestia. You must be Stripe. Shining Armor told me about you. Though I must say, you appear to have grown some based on what he said.” It was then her eyes fell on the pendants he wore around his neck. Her eyes narrowed somewhat before she smiled and regained her composure. “Do you want me to remove them?” “No. Shining told me that they mean a lot to you. A testament to somepony you lost. I insist that you always wear them when in my presence for it would honor me for you to do so.” “Thank you,” he replied hoarsely because of how choked up he was getting. “Sharp, would you please show Stripe around the city?” “Yes, Princess.” “Also, when Twilight and her friends get here tomorrow, could you introduce him?” “Sure.”

After she left, Stripe was speechless. Despite being very regal and commanding, Celestia had been very humble and had requested he wear something that she no doubt felt had magic. For her to be honored that he wear it around her was not what he had expected. He was also keenly aware that she was honest and truthful about that. Maybe Equestria was not the place full of all the stuck up ponies that he had heard about.

Following Sharp Steel out, he was given a detailed and very descriptive tour of the entire city of Canterlot. The outer walls, the towers, the city itself and of course the castle. “Much of this city will be your work area. You will go on daily patrols and each and every morning, you will meet with either myself or Shining Armor.” “Who do you report to?” “Shining. And he reports to Princess Celestia every single morning. As captain of the guard, it's part of his duty. Oh, one more thing. Celestia is known for her pranks, so be mindful.” “Great.”

The city was even more grand with all that he had seen. There was easily a dozen or so fountains spread throughout the city and they were all beautifully crafted. Like each and every single building he saw, each fountain was an absolute work of art. “You sure this is a city? It seems more like a museum.” Sharp Steel had to laugh at that. “You'll get used to it in time.” Stripe seriously doubted that, but he simply sighed and kept his head on a swivel as he tried to take everything in.

As the day drug on, he stayed with Sharp Steel as best as he could. Once he had the patrol patterns memorized, he headed off on his own. Taking a deep breath, he exhaled as he walked down the street. His hooves clopped on the cobblestone streets as his eyes took in everything he saw. A couple of rich unicorns were off to the side conversing with a relatively able bodied looking pegasus. He passed by a number of restaurants and assorted food shops. It was then that he heard a commotion. Turning to his left, he saw a unicorn with a pink mane and a rather interesting if elegant looking set of shapes on her flank. The commotion was due to her arguing with a shopkeeper over something.

Clearing his throat as he approached, the two unicorns stopped bickering for a moment as they took notice of the new guard. “A zebra!? Celestia must be mad!” Interestingly enough, it was the shopkeeper who made the comment and not the female unicorn. “I don't know, he seems rather suited for his apparent career. My husband would probably agree as well. I'm Fleur de Lis.” Nodding, he sighed and saw her give a glare towards the shopkeeper before walking off down the street. “Why do I get the feeling that this job is going to get very boring very quick?”

Having gone from one military where the desert was where he would patrol to a city was quite the change. Also, when he patrolled the desert, he was usually attacked by something. The odds of something attacking him here in any way other than verbally seemed to be slim to none. Though, the fact that Shining Armor had mentioned that there was a threat of an attack seemed to suggest something to the contrary. Stripe also remembered the encounters he had with the changelings in the desert in Zebrafrica. On several different occasions, he had discovered bits and pieces of evidence suggesting a vast number were in Equestria. He had an opportunity to warn them, but it appears somepony else had already beaten him to it. The only question he had other than who was how much information Canterlot had gotten in regards to whatever was forthcoming.

When midday arrived, he was on one of the castle walls looking out at the countryside. Even though it was far greener and infinitely more peaceful than anything he had ever experienced in Zebrafrica, it was still breathtakingly beautiful all the same. The trees, the hills, the mountains, everything. Everything fit just perfectly. He could even see somewhat distantly the cloud formations of Cloudsdale. The idea of having a city in the clouds was another thing he was going to have to get used to. Artemisia had talked about being able to walk and sit on clouds without any real trouble. However, that was because of her species. Winged species had a natural magical ability to utilize clouds for their own wants and desires. From buildings to food to pieces of furniture. So far, that amounted only to winged ponies and zebras, changelings and of course dragons. Well, some dragons.

“Stripe!! Hey!! You want something to eat?” Turning his head, the zebra saw a familiar white unicorn approaching. “Sure thing. Providing you know someplace that's good.” “Oh come on, everything in Canterlot is good.” “I've only been here about four hours and I still can't seem to completely figure this place out. Not just Canterlot, all of Equestria. The trip here by train, my brief recruitment into your guard and my patrol. No initiation?” “Well, typically there is an initiation, but we are kind of desperate.” “I can understand that. And I don't mean to try and get myself fired. But isn't it a bad idea to cut corners?” “Look. I was going to have an initiation. I had spoken to Celestia after we had gotten you a room. I wanted you in your armor and ready for her inspection before the initiation as is normally the case. After she met you and had Sharp lead you around the city, she met with me. You're in. Furthermore, it appears that you may be replacing me as captain of the guard.”

Stripe had literally stopped in his tracks upon hearing this. Hear he was, completely new to the country and this part of the world after being kicked out of his own, and now he was not only in the Royal Guard for the rulers of the country, but also a candidate to replace Shining Armor as captain of the guard. Of course, that brought about the question of where he was going. But of course, the answer was that it would probably be a temporary thing since he intended to have a picture perfect honeymoon. “Yeah. So, I will be leaving and my position will go to the best candidate for the job. There is more than just being a good leader. To fill my role, you would also need to be a good follower.” “You're talking to me as if it's a sure thing.” “I've never seen Celestia take with somepony so well. It's as if she feels she needs to help you somehow.”

“Get your carrot sandwiches here!” “Two please,” Shining Armor requested as the earth pony opened up the top of his cart and pulled out a couple of carrots that he then put into elongated pieces of bread. Stripe had overheard through various bits of conversations he'd been listening to for the past couple of hours that these were called buns. He was handed his carrot sandwich on the bun with some mustard. Taking a bite, he found it quite good as he walked with Shining through the city. “I still don't get what makes me so special. I was exiled from my home.” “We know. We've gotten reports. Soarin mentioned your wife was like a monster, but that she seemed warm and kind.” “Most of my fellow zebras couldn't understand. I'd like to have thought they could've, but they couldn't. In fact, they proved me right when they killed her. Right in front of me no less. I'm no guard. I couldn't protect anything as I failed to protect the one thing that was most important to me. I'll do the job as it seems the one I'm most suited to do, but don't expect much from me. I have no place being in charge.” Having said his piece, he finished his lunch and left Shining alone.

Watching the zebra walk off down the street, Shining was torn. On the one hoof, he had promised he'd meet Cadenza for lunch, hence his light lunch of just a small sandwich with Stripe. On the other hoof, he really wanted to help the zebra. He just didn't know how. Helping somepony who lost somepony in the way he had wouldn't be easy. Ultimately, time is the best healer for such things. Shaking his head, he turned to go find his fiance.

Approaching the steps to the main entrance of the castle, Stripe looked over it in wonder and amazement. He'd seen it several times so far this morning. Each and every time, he was forced to stop and look over it. He just couldn't get over the expert craftsmanship of it. There was nothing even remotely similar to it where he spent much of his life. However, it seemed like what remained would be spent here. Just as well, all he had left was here. Well, all he had left that mattered.

The rest of the day was a blur for him. He hardly recognized what was going on as it was all the same. Stepping in to stop arguments before they escalated into something else. One didn't need to have any sort of training to do this. Just wear the armor, look big and mean and occasionally cast a glare or let loose a growl to keep anypony from getting uppity. It was far easier to what he had been doing as a Zebra Warrior. As such, it didn't really do much with his self esteem. In fact, over the past few hours, he had been literally counting down the minutes till his shift ended. He'd had a conversation with Sharp Steel shortly after his encounter at lunch with Shining Armor. Sharp had told him about his shift and when he could stop his patrols. After that, he could head to a restaurant, stop by a bar or just simply go back to his bunk. However, he would be needed shortly after sundown to meet the other princess.

The barracks were somewhat noisy as a number of ponies were either taking off their armor or putting some on. One he took notice of was a black furred pegasus that looked strong. Her dark blue armor seemed to match her quite well. Her mane and tail were a vibrant white as she flicked her mane out of her face so she could put her helmet on. “The name's Star Light,” she stated without even bothering to look towards the zebra. “Don't go anywhere. In about another hour, you're going to meet Princess Luna.” “Okay.” “Keep your armor on. I want you to at least look presentable. Luna is a bit more....formal than Celestia on such meetings. That especially goes for first meetings.” Seeing his look, she sighed. “Look, I'm a bit more gruff than the guys on the day shift. The main reason for that is that up until recently, I've been completely in charge of those at night. I also had the.......deplorable job of waking up Celestia each and every morning to lower the moon and raise the sun. With Luna here, it does make my job a little bit easier.”

Stripe just looked aside. He didn't really think that this job was hard. Sure, keeping a city secure wasn't easy, but he had yet to really see anything that overly posed any sort of threat. His mind kept going over the thought of changelings being in the country and the city under threat from attack. “You know something?” “I'm not sure. I don't know if what I know has anything to do with the threat or not.” “Well, I could certainly use any and all information. A lot of such tidbits of info isn't really worth anything. But through that sea of nothingness, there are bits that are worth their weight in gold.” “I don't know if you know what a changeling is or not.” “Nope, can't say I do.” Sighing, he explained what he knew and saw her nod. “That's rather interesting. Insectoid creatures that are similar to ponies?” “Yeah. And they can take on disguises as well.” “I see. This does sound a little out there, but I'll look into it. Hearing such information from a warrior, I can't take the risk of it being true and do nothing.” He nodded and watched her leave before he headed back to his bed.

A little while later, he saw her reenter. “Hey, this way.” Things did look a little more interesting here at night. Following Star Light, he saw her open a door that had previously been locked. “Luna has herself as an additional guard. Follow the steps up to the top of the tower. She'll be on the balcony. Be formal. Try to appear nice and keep it short and sweet. You need to be ready and presentable tomorrow since you'll be meeting the Elements of Harmony. Now go, Luna is waiting.”

Slowly, he began to climb the stairs. What was with the ponies and building things so high off the ground. He was really going to have to get used to heights. There was no way he'd be able to walk out to the edge of the balcony, not without a blindfold on at the very least.

When he finally reached the top of the stairs, he walked across the small room before stepping out onto the balcony. Luna had yet to properly move back into Canterlot and still lived out of a separate tower in the nearby forest. “Come forth striped one. Do not fear me.” “I don't. Nor do I fear death.” “I think that there are few ponies who can say that with honesty.” “What about your guards?” “We haven't really had a real fight in a thousand years. Not since I was taken over by darkness and engaged my own sister in combat. I sense a magic in you, one that seems to be growing.” “Nothing much I think. Probably just the residual magic from these pendants my wife gave me.” “Your wife who is no longer with you.” Stripe turned away at that statement. “Please, forgive me. My.....manners are not the best. I have been away from this world for far too long and am still trying to get used to the new customs and cultures myself.”

Looking up towards the night sky, Stripe sighed when he lowered his head once more. “Come forward. Gaze at the city from my perspective.” “I'd rather not.” “Come now. You'll have to come up here eventually if you replace Shining as the head of the guard.”

Stripe was not looking forward to this as he slowly made his way towards the edge of the balcony. Peering out over the city, he was stunned at what he saw. He could literally see for miles. And for the first time, he didn't really feel afraid of heights when in a tall building. It was really strange. Maybe Luna was helping him with that particular phobia or maybe it was something else entirely. Maybe it was some part of Artemisia helping him to better adapt to his new life here in Equestria. “When do I need to be up tomorrow?” “Did Sharp Steel not tell you?” “Well, he did....” “Then you get up at that time.”

Walking away to head back down the stairs, he glanced back towards where Luna stood. She reminded him a lot of his deceased wife. Even so, he was still grieving and hadn't been able to really move on. He also was fairly certain that she would not be interested in marrying some guard from some faraway land that was exiled by his own people.

Sunlight was seen filtering through the small window above his bed. Yet another problematic night. He'd barely gotten any sleep yet again and was fairly certain that his troubles would continue to follow him till he finally passed on and joined her. Of course, he had to wonder if she went to Heaven or Tartarus.

The morning was nothing if uneventful and boring. After meeting with Shining Armor and later Sharp Steel, he headed out onto his patrol. He was told to return to the castle entrance by one to meet the Elements. The rest of the morning and the day after would be spent on patrol unless he was told different.

Walking along a wall along the castle, he looks out towards the city. Seeing a train pull in, he puts his hooves up on the side to try and get a better view. He could see ponies boarding and getting off. He noticed a group of six that appeared to be together. He could also spot something small and purple near the group. “Must be the dragon Shining mentioned his sister having. I guess I'd better get myself to the front of the castle. Wouldn't want to keep anypony waiting.”

Getting there was no problem and he easily be the group there by a wide margin. Each of Twilight's friends would have a specific chore that they would do to help the wedding get off the ground. As he was waiting, he saw Cadenza approaching. “I was hoping to find you here.” “I was told to meet the Elements of Harmony.” “Yes. But as soon as you are finished, I'd like a word with you in private.” Watching her leave, his eyes narrowed. Her tone was not one he liked and he didn't really like that she seemed to be hiding something.

However, his attention was soon attracted elsewhere as he heard talking. He was unaware that somepony already had a few ideas that perhaps Cadenza was not all she appeared. However, that somepony else was not quite as distrusting as he was at this point.

As Shining Armor rounded the corner, he motioned for the Twilight and her friends to head on into the castle. Stripe watched as the six approached and noticed them stop. Stepping forward, he bowed slightly as a show of respect. “Um, hi. Why are you here?” Twilight asked. “Shining not mention me?” “Oh! Yes, he mentioned they had a new guard. He didn't mention that the new guard was a zebra though.” “I guess it slipped his mind for some reason. Who are your friends?” “Oh, this is Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.” The yellow pegasus in question was actually kind of hiding behind her friends.

“Mighty nice ta meet y'all.” “The pleasure is all mine Applejack.” Of course, Stripe's train of thought was derailed as he felt somepony getting a bit close for comfort. Pinkie was staring directly at him from the side. How she had gotten there without him noticing was really strange as all six had been within his field of vision at all times minus that split second when he turned to reply to Applejack. “Sorry, but she has a tendency to do that,” Twilight stated as she stepped between the zebra and the bright pink pony that looked about ready to literally bounce out of her own fur with how she was bouncing in place. “You guys got things to do?” “Yep! This wedding is gonna be awesome!” That was all the cyan colored pegasus said before zipping off down the corridor. Her friends soon followed one by one with Twilight taking up the rear. She stopped for a moment and turned, “What are those around your neck?” “The last memory of somepony dear to me.”

He turned and walked off to go find Cadenza as Twilight hurried to catch up with her friends. As Stripe searched for Cadenza, he heard his new commander. “Shining?” Walking over to the noise, he saw a glimpse of green flash behind a door before the white unicorn walked out rubbing his head. Stripe raised an eyebrow as he saw Cadenza step out behind him. “Oh, so glad you could make it. Come with me please.”

Once inside, the door slammed shut behind him. Stripe looked towards Cadenza, “This is not even remotely funny. I do not like jokes.” “No joke. I just want to talk to you.” “Then why did you slam that door and lock me in?” “Urgency.” “Right. What is so urgent you wanted me in here?” “It's amazing. Those pendants you have are quite intricate and wonderfully crafted.” “I guess accusing you of something would get be nowhere.” “Quite the smart little zebra. You want your new friends to survive, then you'd best keep this meeting to yourself. I know you've been talking some. With all the questions getting asked, I have to be very careful. Just remember, the lives of your friends are in my hands.”

Stripe then felt a searing pain in his head as Cadenza's magic touched the pendants he had around his neck. Using it against him, she blasted him against the very door that he had just walked through.

Several hours later, he sits up and feels his head. “Ow....dammit. What hit me?” He had no memory of what had taken place and simply remembered what few suspicions he had of Cadenza. “Hey, you alright?” Stripe turned to see Sharp Steel and nodded. “Where have you been?” “Unconscious I guess. I have a very nasty migraine thanks to whatever it was that hit me.” “Here, follow me. We'll get you checked out.”

As Sharp Steel and Stripe headed into the castle, they walked past the grand ballroom. There, Stripe witnessed Pinkie getting berated by Cadenza for her choice of party preparations. After they had passed it, Stripe stopped and looked back. “That seemed a little harsh. Maybe her choices are childish, but that's still rather harsh.” “Come on. There isn't much we can do as it is her wedding.” “Her and Shining.”

As the day continued on, Stripe spent most of his time up on the wall. His patrols had been changed due to his more vigilant nature. Celestia had personally asked him to keep an eye up on the wall while she watched from the balcony in the tower. Stripe was also going to be dealing with quite the long night too since he was asked to stand guard all night.

Each passing hour felt like an eternity. Every time he glanced below or looked towards the other guards on the wall, the same thought entered his mind. When would this attack happen? If somepony took the time to make a threat, then surely they intended to fulfill it. Waiting for something that could potentially happen was not something he overly enjoyed. The absolute worst part of it was the waiting.

“Stripe, what's the news?” “Same as it was when Sharp Steel last asked me before he called it a night,” Stripe replied to Star Light. “Well, keep an eye out. I was told zebras can see quite well in the dark.” “Only if our eyes have had adequate time to adapt. Plus, it's not really that dark around a city.” “Really? Hmm, I never noticed.” “I have. It got dark where I grew up. It doesn't really get that dark here.”

The flapping of wings signaled that she had left. Looking out over the city once more, he began to walk up and down the wall. The night continued on just as the day had after his encounter with Cadenza. Of course, he couldn't remember what had happened thanks to whatever it was she had done. As the light of dawn is brought out, he watches as Luna takes her leave. However, Celestia didn't take her place. “Stripe.” Speaking of, the sun princess had managed to sneak up on him without him knowing.

Turning around, he bowed and muttered a quick apology. “No need. Stripe, I have some things to do today in preparation for the upcoming wedding. Can you take over my watch on the tower?” “Sure. Can I stop for some coffee or something first?” “By all means. But make haste.”

With some liquid stimulants to help keep himself awake, Stripe plodded his way up to the top of the tower to take his position. Looking out over the city, he then looked skyward at the great pinkish colored shield that was being utilized to protect the city.

As the wedding final preparations begin, Stripe stands watch in his position. He can see quite a bit from his location. But much of what is going on in regards to the actual preparations are out of his line of sight. At least until he notices some of the proceedings of the rehearsal through a window. Nodding, his eyes glance around the rest of the city.

Casually, his eyes glance back towards the room where the rehearsal was taking place and he spots Cadenza cowering and what looks like Twilight yelling. Of course, from his position and the distance, he cannot hear anything being said. He sees the pink alicorn take off out of the room with the purple unicorn following. Shaking his head, a sound diverts his attention to the room behind him.

Walking into the room, he looks around trying to determine just what it was he heard. After a long several minutes pass, he gets the feeling that somepony is merely toying with him and he returns to his post. He was not a fan of pranks or jokes, so he rarely pulled them himself.

His attention is drawn immediately to the room where the rehearsal had been going on when he sees a flash of green light. Finding that odd, he shakes his head when a thought enters his mind. Cadenza is not what she appears. Having recovered from his smack to the head, he fully remembers the encounter he had with Cadenza. He'd also seen what had happened when Twilight had confronted her and how the others had reacted. He had failed to witness Cadenza sending Twilight off to some unknown location.

Feeling something grab his legs and pull him into the room behind the balcony, he sees Sharp Steel and bucks him away. “What gives!?” It is when the gray unicorn draws his sword that Stripe knows what is up. Dodging a slash of the sword, he bucks the unicorn into a nearby wall and gets his leg slashed for his trouble. Drawing his mace, he clashes with the unicorn and wondered why he wasn't using his magic.

Had he known what Cadenza's orders were, he'd have known that Sharp Steel was to get rid of the 'other problem' without attracting attention. Parrying a sword swing, he smashes the husky unicorn aside and sees green blood on the end of his mace. “You son of a....” he began and parried another attack.

The sounds of a fight echo in the tower as Stripe finds himself falling down the stairs. Half way down, he shakes his head and sees the unicorn approaching, his horn glowing a sickly green. Standing tall, he slides the shield from his back and puts his wounded left hoof through the loop as he draws his sword. Having been trained to move on three legs when using a shield, he carefully hobbles back and puts his back hooves against a wall. The first blast of magic strikes the shield and it holds quite well as the second forces him to stumble. The third knocks him further down the stairs as he shakes his head. Not having magic was really hampering his ability in this fight. Thinking quickly, he takes the shield in his mouth and hurls it like a throwing disk.

Of course, the gray unicorn was walking down when he noticed the shield. Deflecting it with a blast of magic, he failed to notice Stripe till he got bucked in the jaw and knocked back up a couple of steps.

Stripe used this next temporary distraction and picked up his sword and flung it with a flick of his head. As the unicorn got up, he noticed too late as the sword pierced his left eye and exited the back of his head. The form of the unicorn dissipated as a tall changeling stood where he had been before falling over. Stripe then winced because of his leg and sides. Trouble or not, he had to confront Cadenza and end her. Retrieving his sword and mace, he grabbed his shield on the way back down and headed for her bed chamber.

Shining Armor was on patrol in the castle when he saw the wounded Stripe hobbling quickly in some direction. “Hey! What happened!?” “Not now. I'm on my way to deal with a rat.” Shining move in front of him to stop him. “Go see the doctor. Who are you after?” “Maybe you should have listened to your sister. You want to come, feel free. But I will be having a few choice words with your new bride.” Shining Armor put his hoof up and shook his head. Stripe pushed him aside, “Killing me is the only way to stop me. You block me again, I'll do more than push.”

Deciding to simply follow for now, he was stopped when he felt something against his head. Unaware he'd been spotted, Stripe hurried to Cadenza's room. Having teleported out before teleporting back, she began to sing to herself when Stripe burst into the room.

Growling, Stripe blocked her magical blast with the shield when he felt something from behind. Falling over, he turned around to spot one of the guards. Cadenza simply nodded to him as he left and she closed the door. Stripe felt her magic hitting his head and struggled till something hard hit him.

Tossing the shield she'd picked up with her magic aside, Cadenza casually exited the room and closed the door behind her, locking it from the outside.

Stripe wasn't out for as long this time and turned to see the locked door. Seeing the window, he looked through it and saw a decent drop. Grabbing his shield, he smashed against the door again and again till he was able to bust through it, the doors smashing against the wall on either side. Growling, he hobbled towards the throne room.

It was as he arrived that he saw Cadenza, now Chrysalis, blasting Celestia aside. When Celestia gives the order to the Elements to retrieve the Elements of Harmony, Stripe whistles and takes charge as he leads the six across the city.

As the shield finally breaks, he looks up as he continues to hobble. Tossing his shield behind him, he sees Twilight catch it with her magic as he draws his mace. Rushing past a changeling that crashed down, he delivers a bone shattering hit that knocks the creature down.

Arriving at the tower he had just left, he sees hundreds of changelings blocking the path. He then sees as they continue to take on the form of each one of the Elements as well as Stripe himself. However, these changelings are unarmed and are relying on their disguises and magic to keep the others at bay.

Charging forth, he parries an attack and bucks one that got behind him as he sees Applejack buck another even further. Getting knocked down, he sees the changeling tackled by Rainbow and then trips another that attacked.

A crunch is heard as he sees that Twilight had used his shield to smash a changeling into the ground. Using his mace, another crunch is heard as he dodges a left hook and takes out the changeling's legs before delivering a skull crushing blow. Getting knocked back by a blast of magic, he sees Pinkie grab Twilight's tail to use her to fire dozens of magical blasts to knock the changelings back.

Hearing Fluttershy cry out, he rolled to his hooves and delivered a buck to the changeling in question just to see Rarity give it a wicked left hook. As the changeling was knocked back towards him, he reared up and clubbed it aside with his mace. Having the mace knocked from his mouth a moment later by a different changeling, he looked up at the metal helmet and gave it the head-butt of a lifetime.

Keeping this in mind, he draws his sword and charges into the changelings as the girls keep fighting. Knocking another against the open door, he slashes it with his sword and hears a loud bang as several changelings are knocked aside.

With this group down, he leads the charge towards where the Elements are. He was thankful Sharp Steel had been foolish enough to show him where they were. Though he kind of assumed that the changeling figured he wouldn't have made it this far. It was then that they were surrounded by more changelings as they landed.

Looking around, Stripe sees the girls relent to defeat. Spitting his sword out angrily, he simply growled as he was lead with them back to the throne room.

Once there, Chrysalis gloated about her apparent victory. All around had nothing but scowls as Cadance and Shining Armor nuzzled each other, the power of their love building. Stripe felt tears on his face as he felt his own inner strength increasing. Chrysalis leaned in towards him after taunting Twilight and her friends to taunt him. When she touched his pendants, he head-butted her back and saw her notice the two lovers in the center, the magic building.

Growling, Stripe turned and watched as the other changelings began to back away in uncertainty. Feeling the magic from them touch him, he noticed his pendants growing a vibrant green as he felt something within him. “For the one I lost!!!” With that, he reared on his forelegs and bucked Chrysalis just as a shockwave of magic sent her flying out of the castle with most of her kin to somewhere far off and unknown.

Hours later and Stripe is at the position he held earlier in the day. Up on the balcony as the sun is setting, he looks towards where the festivities are and despite the fact that weddings are good things, he cannot feel happy. “Something the matter?” “My wife had been one of......” “I know. But I also know she was not quite like the ones you fought today. I am sorry that neither me nor most of my guard were able to help. We had some problems of our own as it seems Chrysalis had taken every precaution imaginable.” “Except when dealing with me.” “You became the proverbial ace up the sleeve. I'm not certain if I worded that right though, so forgive me if it sounds wrong.”

There was a long moment of silence as Stripe continued to watch the party. He could hear the music from his post and simply sighed. “Do you wish to go down there?” “No.” “Stripe, listen to me. You cannot live in the past. You must let go. You're still here and it seems those pendants she gave you were more than helpful. I sense a stronger magic in you than yesterday. Perhaps, eventually, you'll have some abilities on par with some of the resident unicorns.” “Would they accept it?” “Since when would that matter? Celestia and I have accepted it. We know you'll never turn on us. I also know you miss your mother.” Stripe shook his head as he swallowed hard. “Please, try to think of this as a new beginning. After all, when Cadance and Shining Armor get settled, we'll need a new captain. And since he just got promoted and the second in charge wasn't all he seemed, consider yourself second only to myself, my sister, Cadance or Shining Armor.”

Stripe looked back towards the sky. He then looked towards where he knew Ponyville was. “Can I have some time off to go and visit her?” “Yes. In fact, you can escort the girls back home. Maybe you should meet some of their friends over there as well. It might do you some good.”

Heading down the stairs, Stripe thanks Luna as he heads off to bed to get some sleep. “Pleasant dreams my son.”

A New Beginning

The following morning has him helping the girls load their things onto the train bound for Ponyville. “YAY!! I can show you all of the town!! You just have to come to Sugar Cube Corner!” “Right, sweets,” Stripe half mumbled. Artemisia had loved sweets but he wasn't a fan. He liked fruit pies, but that was about it. “Don't worry about Pinkie, she's always that way around new beings. Tell me, what ultimately made you decide to come to Ponyville with us?” Twilight asked. “It's not permanent. I'll just be there for a few weeks. It'll help me get used to this place and allow me to visit someone I haven't seen since I was young.”

Twilight gave him a glance as if trying to think about who it could be when her eyes seemed to light up. “Zecora! You know Zecora. Is she like.....” Twilight was about to ask when she remembered that he had said it was somepony he lost. But then she remembered that he hadn't known where she was. “She's not my wife, if that's what you're asking. She's my mother.”

The audible sound of six clangs were heard. “Wait a minute, ya mean ta tell me that she's yer mom?” “Yes Applejack. And I apparently now know what my mother's name is.” “You never knew what it was before?” Twilight asked. “No. Aside from her till she decided to explore the world, I had nobody else. A few months before she left, I had started training in the military.”

“So, you are Zecora's son?” “Yes, Rainbow. How many times do I have to repeat the same answer?” “Just.....um....” “Rainbow dear, give him some space. So, if Zecora was not your wife, then who was? I'm sure everypony here is mentally asking that same question while Rainbow is trying to say it without much success.” “After what happened, your opinion may change, Rarity. In fact, all of you may have different opinions, particularly Twilight.” “Oh, I doubt it. You helped defeat Chrysalis. You helped me and my friends and I could never think less of you.” “Twilight, Artemisia was a changeling. These pendants have changeling magic. One was a gift from her to me, and the other was hers. My kind could not understand such a thing because of the war, so she had to keep disguised all the time. But her size and a lack of re-energizing magic left her magic weak, and she was eventually found out. I tried and failed to get her to safety. The most important thing to me in Zebrafrica was the only thing I failed to keep safe. If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go lie down now.”

Naturally, this had all six absolutely stunned. Neither knew how to properly respond to that and it was obvious that most did seem to be having second thoughts.

As the train began to get underway, Stripe got the distinct feeling he wasn't alone. “Look, Ah can understand why you were hesitant ta talk about somethin' like that. But haven't ya learned that honesty is the best policy?” “Not always Applejack. Even you ought to know that there are times when telling the truth is not exactly helpful to the situation. Surprise parties are a perfect example. Although, those only really work for those who like that sort of thing.” “Do you like surprise parties!?” “No, Pinkie, I don't. I don't mind parties, but I prefer the type that doesn't involve beings jumping out at me. No offense.” Pinkie nodded and then proceeded to slink away just as easily as she had appeared out of nowhere.

For most of the trip, Stripe tried to stay to himself. With most of the group, it was actually relatively easy. Pinkie made it impossible though as she was always springing up out of random places and spouting off random things. He would have never guessed how right Soarin could be about the pink pony, but he was. On the upside, most of the ponies he had met and gotten to know so far were not so stuck up that they might drown in a sudden rainstorm.

When the train finally began to pull into Ponyville Station, Stripe was mentally preparing himself for when he would meet his mother again. He didn't remember much about her aside from the fact that she rhymed all the time. He also remembered what she looked like, but not much about her personality or how she did things. He just hoped she could accept him for who he was and that he was not into the older ways and that she could hopefully give him some much needed support for getting over his biggest failure.

“All those for Ponyville, this is your stop.” Stripe wondered why the conductor even bothered. He guessed it was for those that fell asleep, though every single one of the occupants he could see was clearly awake.

Exiting the train, he watched as most of the six were greeted by friends and family. Applejack had 3 family members greeting her while Rarity was seen giving a small filly of similar color albeit with a slightly different hairstyle a hug. Looking around, he sees Rainbow heading for her home as Twilight heads off down the street.

“HEY!!!” Stripe practically fell over face first at being shocked out of his fur and armor by the pink furred menace. “Don't you have a family to go to?” “No! They're on a rock farm.” “Rock.....never mind. Where's Zecora at?” “Ooh, she's probably at her hut just inside Everfree.” “Could somepony show me the way?” “I can. My home isn't far from Everfree.” “Thank you Fluttershy.”

Keeping pace with the yellow pegasus wasn't hard. Stripe had some sense of understanding as to why she was shy and unsure of a great many things. He himself felt out of place as he could literally feel the eyes burning into him. He looked around at all the buildings he passed. They were simplistic, yet warm and inviting in appearance. They also lacked the general elegance that the buildings and homes in Canterlot had.

As they neared the edge of town, Stripe saw Fluttershy point to a path leading into the forest. “Just down that way. But be careful, there are all sorts of nasty animals and creatures in there. There's also Poison Joke.” Stripe recalled the mention of that in one of the letters he had gotten as he rubbed his chin and then thanked her again as he continued on.

The path itself really didn't seem to go anywhere as the trees seemed to get thicker and more dense. The assortment of blue flowers was not hard to spot with his keen eye, so he was easily able to bypass it without much issue.

A loud sound attracts his attention as he glances towards his left. Realizing it was nothing but a wild animal, he returns his gaze to the path and begins walking once again when he stops. He could clearly see a hut built into a tree. The look and appearance told him just all he needed to know as he picked up the pace. Reaching the door, he looked inside the window when he caught a whiff of a thick vegetable stew that he and Artemisia would frequently make back in Zebrafrica.

“Stripe, my dear one, what troubles my only son?” She had known he was there before he had even knocked. So, with the surprise of sorts gone, he entered her hut and gave her a big hug. Zecora returned the hug her son gave her and smiled. “Why the gloom? You helped prevent certain doom.” “Only here. Only here. Why can't you ever speak plainly?' “Stripe, I did not always rhyme. But you were too young at the time. I am not like I once was. But I did not leave you without just cause. I felt there was someplace I needed to be. That someplace is Everfree. You would not have been happy, so you stayed with extended family.” Stripe simply shook his head with an audible sigh. “Equestria is my home now.”

The silence that followed that statement lasted for quite awhile. “How have you been hurt that you can't return to the desert?” “It was who I decided to marry.” Zecora's eyes lit up for just a moment when she saw her son's face. “What happened to your wife? Can you tell me who took her life?” “Some responsible are dead. My wife was not a zebra. When I started dating her, I thought she was but learned she wasn't. I lead her along while still having feelings and wondered if a changeling could return those same feelings. She did. For two years it worked. Then, her magic began to fail her because of her size and of my frequent absences into the desert.” “When you were sent to scout, they found her out?” “Yes. Then another found something more. I watched them kill her in front of me. The train was right there and we couldn't make it!! I couldn't save her!!” Tears were flowing freely as Stripe was literally forced to his knees and to the ground. Zecora simply remained silent and hugged him. She may not have had much like for changelings, but she knew what her son was feeling. The love had been real, and it had been returned. There was no other way that it could hurt him this badly.

As Stripe uses his time in Ponyville to spend time with his mother and try to heal some more over Artemisia's death, he gets a rude awakening (literally) when Applejack awakens him from a midday nap by barging into Zecora's hut. “Wake up Stripe! We need yer help!” “What? How?” “No time ta explain, but meet us at the train station.” Watching her bolt out the door, he shook his head.

He'd only been here a couple of days when a new emergency made itself known. Maybe this job wouldn't be so boring after all. Giving his mother a hug and kiss goodbye, he apologizes for not being able to spend more time with her. She simply nods and wishes him luck in her own way as he darts out the door.

At the train station, he sees all six waiting. “What?” “I've got a test coming up!” Stripe looked towards Twilight and then towards the others as if asking, 'Really?' Applejack rolled her eyes. “Look, we were just gonna be there ta support her an' all bein' her friends.” “Of course. But why am I needed? I thought I had a few weeks.” “Well, part of the message mentioned a test and the other part mentioned you. Apparently, you'll have yer own test of sorts,” Applejack replied. “Yes indeed,” Rarity adds. Stripe simply rolled his eyes and wondered just how many times he would be riding in a stupid train before getting to spend an extended period of time someplace.

Once back in Canterlot, Stripe heads to the tower as Twilight goes to visit with Celestia. “Twilight has her test and I've got........something,” he muttered and found Luna at the top of the stairs in the room where he had battled Sharp Steel. “Come in, please. I wish to discuss a few things before I give you your first official assignment.” “Great,” Stripe muttered as he sat down in a nearby chair. “I must say that your time with your mother has helped you dream better. Though I must admit, a few are rather....odd. The ones of the changeling that I do not recognize are a little odd as well, but they make sense. You had loved her, she loved you and in turn, was taken from you. I am referring to some of your recent dreams about myself. I am flattered, but also.....uncertain.” “I am sorry. I had no idea you could know about dreams.” “Do not apologize. You needn't apologize as you have done nothing wrong. Your dreams are your own and I am happy that they are once again pleasant for you. I must ask why you are dreaming of me and why I am.....fat?”

A sound echoed out and Stripe hoped to avoid answering the question, but Luna's look suggested he'd better come up with an answer fast. “Well, I would have figured the second one should be obvious.” Luna seemed to take this into consideration with a look that seemed to suggest she should have caught that but didn't, leaving her with a somewhat funny expression. “The other, well....I am not sure. I see a lot of her personality in you. You're kind of out of your element because you were gone for so long and you are trying to adapt. For her, she was out of her element because of just how different changelings are from everypony else. She seemed to be an exception to their rule. And she just made me happy. Everypony here has worked damn hard to try and help me. Soarin, Shining Armor, Celestia, Sharp despite him being a changeling, Star Light, you, the girls. Even my mother has offered help. But, of course, that much was obvious. However, you, Celestia and Shining Armor did more for me than any of the zebras I served with. You know precisely what changelings are now and you don't hold it against me. As to why I lean towards you over Celestia, I don't know. As I said, you remind me a lot of Artemisia.”

Luna sat where she had for the past several moments as she contemplated this. “What is it you want?” “I want a place to call home. But more importantly, I want a family.” “You have your mother,” Luna stated even though she knew that's not what he meant. “I want a family of my own. Had I managed to get out with Artemisia and made it here with her, I might have been able to really start one. Now, I just don't see it happening outside of my dreams.” “What if I offered to help?” “I'm sorry, I'm not sure I follow.” “My sister has been nagging me to find a nice stallion to help me get out of the past. I am also struggling to get over some beings I lost. A few close friends that grew old and perished while I was trapped on the moon in my rage. Too late did I realize just how much what I did cost me. If you are willing to help me, I'll help you.” “If this is flirt, then we're both rusty even though I shouldn't be. Course, I wasn't flirting.” “No.”

Both sat for a long while when Luna glanced out the balcony before clearing her throat. “Your first assignment here. You are to protect the Elements of Harmony, specifically, Twilight Sparkle. The test she is about to be put through is very dangerous and I want you to be there to protect her.” “I understand. Is that all?” “Yes.” Stripe nodded and bowed before turning to leave. “Oh, one more question. Do you wish for me to put on any weight?” Stripe had to smile at that. “You know, Mia asked me that question once. Though she didn't quite word it that way. And as I said, if you want. But since that isn't a real answer, I'll answer honestly. Yes, I would like that. But I still want to get to know you.” “Maybe you can when you return. However, you'll need to train a replacement for the daytime duties.” “I haven't even gotten started there yet. Maybe we can work something out for evenings and mornings when we'll both be up.” With that, he left to head back towards the train station. Artemisia had barely been dead a week and it seemed somepony was interested in him. He'd be lying if he said the feeling wasn't mutual though, so he simply decided to focus on the task at hoof and then he'd work on his personal life once this was finished.

Once aboard the train, Stripe began to mentally prepare himself like he had every single time before he entered into an area that was unfriendly. Watching the door, he watches as each of the girls pile in before the train gets moving.

The trip itself is uneventful, but the arrival is anything but. A fierce blizzard is blowing strongly as the group exits the train. Stripe finds the temperature to be intolerable but deals with it as he sees Shining Armor approach. “Where are we going!?” “Follow me!!” Stripe nods and waits till all the girls have taken off after Shining before taking up the rear when he notices a thick cloud of black smoke barreling towards them. “RUN!!”

As the girls run, Stripe turns and puts his shield over his left hoof. Hobbling along, he sees Shining fire a blast of magic as he and the former captain of the guard hurry everypony along to try and reach safety. Using his shield, Stripe easily deflects a surge of power before running again as Shining steps up to make a last stand of sorts as the girls jump through what looks like a portal. “SHINING!!” Stripe is forced to put the shield up as he is literally knocked back through the shield and crashes into Twilight as she waits for her brother. Regaining himself, Stripe sees Twilight is back on her feet as he stands back up when Shining jumps through with black crystals covering his horn. After a failure at an attempt to cast a spell, the white unicorn shakes his head and sighs.

In the castle, Stripe stands off next to Twilight before she rushes over to greet Cadance. As talks begin, it is plainly obvious to all present that Cadance is wore out and needs some serious help. Stripe sees her horn is alight in blue signifying she is constantly holding up the spell and that she cannot do it forever. Shining Armor even mentions this.

Excusing himself, Stripe heads outside and looks around the city. He can see how it looks picturesque, but knows it will not last unless something is done. He turns around and sees the six mares walking and talking. As they split up to try and gather information, Stripe sticks close to Twilight to protect her as best as he can. Though, doing so from the locals isn't really needed as they all seem downcast and sunk, offering up little if any information before retreating into their homes.

Stripe eventually taps Twilight's shoulder and shakes his head, “We need a new game plan.” Heading back to the base of the castle, they meet up with the others. “Look, all the ponies seem ta have some sort of collective amnesia.” “I know Applejack,” Twilight replies. “Any ideas on how to fix the problem?” Rarity asked. “Ah don't know, but one pony did mention a library,” Applejack replied as the lights seemed to flicker in Twilight's head.

Upon arriving in the library, Stripe is amazed by the sheer size of the three floor facility that seems to stretch on forever. There is a local librarian, but just like the locals outside, she seems as listless and not present as the rest.

Sighing, the group once again splits up, though Stripe doesn't follow Twilight this time. Scouring the library for a book that could be of use, Stripe simply shakes his head as he searches. All of a sudden, he overhears Twilight shout, “EUREKA!!!”

Following Twilight back, Stripe and the others wait outside as Twilight talks with Shining Armor and Princess Cadance. Soon, she returns and they all head inside for a meeting. As the explanation about what needs to be done turns to song, Stripe offers his help as the girls start to put together the Crystal Faire.

Stripe helps Applejack put together the booths and a few rides while the others do what they can to cover the rest. Lifting some wood, Stripe watches as Applejack hammers them together and simply gives her a hoof bump when finished. He even allows Rainbow a chance to charge him in a joust which he deflects with his shield.

As Stripe does what he can to help the crystal ponies enjoy the fair once it is started, he happens to glance over and spies Rainbow hurriedly covering the hastily made crystal heart that Twilight had made earlier. Having been watching all the locals regain their colors, he was ecstatic until this.

“Hey Stripe, we got a problem.” “I gathered Applejack. Why'd Rainbow cover that?” “It ain't the real one. Somepony has got ta find it.” “Shoot. Try and keep them busy. I guess I'm Twilight's new best friend, again.”

Following the purple unicorn into the castle, Stripe glances back and really hopes the others can keep everything from going south while they try to fix the problem. “So, what's the plan?” “We find the crystal heart before Cadance fails to keep the shield up.” “Any idea on where to look?” “Yeah. It's got to be here in the castle since nopony would have been willing to step foot in here while Sombra was in charge.” Stripe nods as he, Twilight and Spike look around to try and find some sort of clue.

As the trio searches, Stripe hears Twilight talking to herself and sees her looking towards the throne. When she lets loose a blast of dark magic, he nearly falls into a newly opened hole in the floor with a stairwell leading down. “How about a little warning next time you decide to open a secret passageway that leads........that far down.” “I will, now come on, we have to hurry up and find that crystal.” “Alright, but......let me take lead. Don't know what traps are down here.”

As they descended the stairs, both look up as Spike is heard yelling. “Damn!” Hurrying faster, they reach the bottom of the stairs only to find nothing. As Stripe looks around, he looks towards Twilight. “Hey, do what you did before.” “Right.” Using the dark magic, they manage to find a door. Stripe watches her walk but she stops for some reason. “Twilight?” She then sits down and starts crying as Stripe tries unsuccessfully to get her attention. Hearing something coming down the stairs, he draws his mace till he sees Spike. “Hey buddy, how bout some help here?” The little dragon nods and runs up to Twilight.

With his help, Stripe manages to get Twilight to snap out of it as her eyes return to normal from their now green color. When Stripe returns his gaze towards the door, he feels temporarily blinded by something as he looks out across Everfree forest. The forest is burning and there seems to be nothing to put it out. “No!!” Rushing forwards, he is stopped by a wall of flame and hears Sombra laugh as his mother screams in agony. “NO!!!!”

Feeling something, he blinks and sees Twilight and Spike before him again. Looking around, he just growled as he sees another door. “While you were distracted, I managed to find the other door before helping you.” “Nice to see where I fall in line.” “Sorry.” “Don't fret it Twi, now let's go.”

As they march up the steps, Stripe looks down towards the ground as it grows ever more distant. “Why can't you guys ever build stuff that stays flat instead of going really high into the air?” “Oh come on, there is at least a view up here.” “Yeah, I got a view........of trouble.” “Uh, what do you mean.” “Exactly what I said Spike. Our friend outside is breaking through. Let's pick up the pace.” Twilight responds by casting an anti-gravity spell so they can slide down the bottom of the staircase.

As they reach the top, Stripe turns to Twilight when he hears screaming down below. “Let's hurry. Look, there it is!” Twilight, Stripe and Spike see the crystal heart as it floats above a disk. As they approach, Stripe pulls out his mace as he slides his shield onto his left forehoof. Nodding to Twilight, he turns towards where they came from as she walks over to the crystal heart.

All of a sudden, Stripe is startled by an alarm as another sound penetrates his ears. Turning, he sees nothing but black crystals when the heart is sent up and over the crystals. “Spike, grab it and let's go!” The dragon hesitates and tries to help Twilight. “Spike, she is trapped! If we don't get it and get down there, we'll be trapped too! Now let's move!!” As he grabs it, Stripe follows before scooping him up onto his back as black crystals start to pierce the floor.

Hearing more screams, Stripe continues to carry Spike when he takes a hit and topples down the stairs. Seeing Spike is okay, Stripe turns as he sees Sombra make a personal appearance. “RUN!!” Stripe turns and charges Sombra only to be blasted off the side by a powerful force of magic. As he plummets, he closes his eyes when he stops. Opening his eyes, he sees he is held aloft by Rarity as Spike tries to make it to the bottom of the steps. Tripping, he drops the crystal heart and it falls from the tower.

Stripe is unable to do much from where he stands and watches as Cadance is launched from the balcony. Spreading her wings, she uses her magic to catch both Spike and the crystal heart and lands, smashing the fake one with her hooves.

Stripe hears her tell the crystal ponies to use their hearts and their love to drive Sombra away. With the real heart put back in place, a blue light is seen and it begins to grow as it starts to overtake what Sombra had sought to brought back. The first blast radiates over all in the Crystal Kingdom and makes Cadance, Shining Armor, Spike, Twilight, her friends and Stripe all become colored like the crystal ponies as if they had some crystal within themselves.

“Well, this is different,” Stripe comments as he looks around. A second blast is sent out in a magical wave that drives Sombra off for good. Turning around, Stripe watches as the black crystals are either destroyed or sink back into the ground from whence they came.

Stripe watches as everything is sent away while the city returns to it's once beautiful nature. Everything is so shiny and amazing. It's much more bewildering than what he had seen in Canterlot. Not to mention he still hadn't quite gotten over how artistic that particular city seemed to be. Hearing a gasp from his friends, he looks up and sees an amazing sparkling sensation of glorious lights radiating in the sky. He can also see how the top of the tower shines, almost as if it is the sole reason for causing such a beautiful spectacle.

As Stripe helps Shining and Cadance escort the girls back to the station, he gets the feeling that he could have done better as a protector or a defender. In the end, it had been Cadance that helped save the crystal. He'd tried but had failed and he hadn't even been able to do anything to that nasty unicorn. “Zebra against magic....I have now lost three times. Well, maybe a few other times.” Sighing, he looked towards Rarity and nodded. He'd already thanked her several times for saving him. Too bad he hadn't really done the same for Spike or Twilight, though both were indeed safe.

As Twilight takes an extra moment to talk with her brother and Princess Cadance, Stripe boards the train after the others, feeling that such things are personal and best left as such. Sitting down at the far end, he eventually sees Twilight make her way onto the train and get seated.

Once in motion, Stripe can see that she is nervous. “Come on, don't be nervous. You did all you could. You managed to get the crystal heart out.” “But I didn't get it to Cadance.” “You're right, you didn't. Spike did. I got a question. Have you ever heard of self sacrifice?” Twilight simply looked at him with an expression that was hard to place. “Was that the test?” “I'm not sure. It wouldn't surprise me. I'm just not sure that I myself succeeded. I was instructed to keep you safe, and I failed. You were captured and I had to think in the moment to get the heart down to the bottom. Spike wasn't fast enough, so I tried to give him a little extra boost only to be knocked aside and then off the ledge.”

Twilight bites her tongue and realizes that Stripe was trying to cheer her up because she had tried her best, just like he had tried his best. “Look, you did the best that you could. I'm still here. Celestia still has her most faithful student.” “Any closer, and she wouldn't have her student.” “Any closer and none of us would be returning,” Twilight responded.

As the train finally begins to slow after several long hours, Stripe casts a glance outside and spots Canterlot. Of course, the massive artistic looking city that he had quoted as being a museum was quite hard to miss. Taking a deep breath, he leads Twilight off the train and towards Canterlot castle. He knew her friends were following, but that only she and he would enter the castle.

With the castle gates soon looming overhead, Stripe takes a deep breath and continues inside. He can hear Twilight's nervousness and hoped she realized he was in the same boat as she was. A test could be retaken, Failing to protect somepony was much more serious than simply failing or passing some test. Of course, try telling that to an especially studious pony like Twilight.

Celestia was there to greet them while Luna was, unsurprisingly, absent. “Welcome back to Canterlot my most faithful student. Twilight, I am so glad to see you. It appears you did your first assignment quite well Stripe. I thank you and welcome you back. You have proven in your short time here just how strong and diligent you can be. You're never one to back down and you'll do anything to try and help save others, even at the cost of your own life.”

Stripe was flabbergasted. How could she have possibly known that? Seeing the look on his face, she smiled. “Cadance sent me a letter explaining what happened. You made a decision to sacrifice one as opposed to the many. It could not have been an easy decision, especially since your main assignment was to protect Twilight specifically. You were able to buy Spike enough time to get the heart to Cadance. Granted, I would have preferred that it had been under different circumstances, but we cannot always choose those.” Returning her gaze to Twilight, she smiled and confirmed what Stripe had mentioned on the train. “You needn't worry about your test. You have passed it with flying colors. You were not alone in saving the city, that much is certain. Nopony can ever really accomplish such a task by themselves. However, you were willing to sacrifice your own life to save the city. I would rather have a student that understands the meaning of self sacrifice as opposed to self interest.” Twilight nodded as Celestia smiled, “I am very proud of you both. Stripe, I am making you the head of the guard. You are to take over the duties Shining Armor once had. Hopefully, you can one day add some magic to your repertoire of skills.” The last comment was stated as she pointed towards the two pendants he still wore.

Outside, Twilight greets her friends and announces her success as Stripe watches the doors close. “Stripe, there are a few other things I need to discuss with you before I send you to Luna.” “We haven't really started anything yet.” “No, but you could both use some personal time together.” Stripe simply sighed in response. “Before you start your duties, I want you to escort Twilight and her friends home. I want you to make sure they are safe and I want you to meet their families. Spend a day with each for 2 weeks to learn the principles of friendship yourself. The seventh day will be reserved for time with your mother.” Stripe nodded and simply stood silent, since he knew she wasn't finished. “When you return, I'd like you to bring your mother with you so that we may meet her.” “Mom isn't really a fan of big cities. The fact that she lives in a forest at the edge of a small country town should be evidence of that.” “I do not wish her to stay here if she doesn't want to. But I'd like to meet her and for her to see just what her son will be doing. Maybe even learn that he may be getting over his grief and moving on, something that would no doubt benefit you.”

Both Celestia and Stripe turn their heads when a sound is heard outside, but Celestia waves her hoof as it turns out to just be Pinkie. “I still don't understand her.” “Understanding her isn't difficult. Understanding how she does the things she does......well, that's another story.” Stripe simply nodded as that much was true, though he himself still couldn't understand the pink menace. Though perhaps one had to live around her and spend time with her to even begin to remotely understand her reasoning. “Look, you do not have to start your assignment of learning about friendship today. You've have a tough and trying couple of days helping Twilight save the crystal ponies. Like Twilight and Spike, you had your place right there beside them. You never faltered or wavered in your duty. That is why I want you in charge of my guards. The reason I want you to learn about friendship is so that you can better understand the Elements of Harmony and how they work. Plus, I think you could use some friends yourself. Not that you haven't made any, but this would give you more reasons to visit Ponyville other than just visiting your mother. But of course, family is also important. And on that note, I believe Luna has something to say to you.”

Stripe looked around when Celestia indicated the tower. Nodding, Stripe exited the throne room to go and find Luna. He couldn't even imagine doing what she did. Raising the moon, helping with dreams and staying up all night. Maybe one day he would also stay up all night. For now, he didn't have enough reason to. He did have some interest in Luna but knew not if it would go anywhere because it was too early to tell. With his musings keeping his mind otherwise occupied, he failed to notice he had walked across the courtyard and the city and was now walking up the steps of the tower. He had always found it fascinating to see everything from up there. With keen eyes, everything could see unbelievably close while being hundreds of yards away or more.

“Please, do hurry. I do not wish to be awake for much longer.” He could hear her voice up in that same room. She seemed impatient, and for obvious reasons. But what seemed odd was a hint in her tone. As if she were trying to tease him. Artemisia had rarely teased him as he was not a fan of such things. She had said she didn't mind if he teased her playfully. He had done some, but not as frequently as she would have liked. Still, she had understood that that wasn't his type of thing and simply let him be who he was.

Once at the top, he looked around and saw that there was now a rather comfortable looking bed. But, it was alone in that there was nothing else here. “You moving back into Canterlot?” “No, not for awhile. I just didn't feel like moving all the way back since I knew you were expecting to speak with me. I am very tired, so I opted to sleep here today.” Stripe nodded as he glanced over to where she was. He'd seen her several times before. Her radiant dark blue fur coat, that wispy flowing dark blue mane that seemed to shimmer with the stars, and of course that dark blue patch over her flanks with the crescent moon. Like her sister, Luna was slim and trim and very able bodied. Well, she used to be.

As Luna remained silent, Stripe stepped closer to take a better look. Something was certainly different. Luna was a little heavier. Not by much though, but enough. She was nowhere near Artemisia's size, but she was of course a good deal heavier than she had been. Her stomach was much more rounded and probably bounced and jiggled when she walked. Of course, he couldn't see this when she was standing still and he probably wouldn't see it for awhile due to his other duties, so all he had was theory and assumption. He saw that her flanks were a little bigger with her cutie marks stretched out (he still had yet to figure out the meaning behind a cutie mark). All in all, she was maybe one hundred to a hundred and fifty pounds overweight. It looked good, at least as far as Stripe was concerned. Even her neck and muzzle were thicker with a cute double chin. “I wish I could experience this, but it is too early.” “Yes. But I must say it is not........uncomfortable. If anything, it is rather nice. Keep in mind, about half of it is magic and will be gone in a day or two. I just wanted to judge your reactions. I figured that if I gave you a little eye candy, it might help your resolve.” “That could be taken the wrong way,” Stripe indicated. “Perhaps, but I only gained a little and what I could for you. I don't know if we will actually be together at this same time in a year's time, so I would rather take it slow.”

“What was that?” “That's the train. We haven't much time, so I will say what I intended to say so that you can leave. I know you are still uncertain about starting anew with anypony. You are still troubling yourself over what you lost. I will be here for you to help whenever you need it just like my sister. Twilight and her friends can also help you when you make your soon to be required weekly visits to Ponyville to learn about friendship. And of course, we cannot forget your mother. She can offer more help than any of us ever could. But the reason why I put on a little weight, as I said, was for you and to gauge your reactions. I know you have some feelings for me that you are unsure about. You are unsure about starting a new relationship just as I am unsure about starting a relationship. I am an alicorn. And because of that, I will live far longer than you unless those pendants changes some things. So, hopefully my gaining weight for you is the first step and maybe you can take the next step. Because if we do start a relationship, both of us must be willing and we must be ready to accept a loss if it ever comes.” “I understand. Maybe you and I could go to a restaurant and see a show in two weeks?” Luna simply smiled, “We'll see. Now you best run along or you'll miss your train. Then you'll have to walk to Ponyville.”

Leaving Luna to get some rest, Stripe headed for the train station with a renewed vigor and vitality. For the first time since Artemisia's death, he actually felt good. He didn't feel depressed, he didn't feel like he wanted to end it all. Most beings could take a lifetime to get over it. He'd managed it in around a week or so. But he'd had lots of help. Almost every single pony he met had been friendly. They'd all spoken to him like and equal and some had even offered to help as they could see he was hurting. Soarin had helped him to be more open. Shining Armor had given him a place to stay and offered him a job. Celestia had insured his career and even offered to help whenever she could. She'd even insisted he wear the pendants he really didn't want to remove because of the significance they had emotionally. Luna had been there to help and was even willing to give an extra bit of comfort if he was willing. Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie, Fluttershy, Rarity and Rainbow Dash. Each one of those six had done what they could to help him. They each offered friendship in their own unique way and had even been willing to keep that friendship very much alive after discovering just what his wife had been. And the news had been learned after the changeling attack on Canterlot. And given what happened between Twilight and Chrysalis, he had doubted that she'd be willing to keep a friendship alive. She'd not only been willing, but had understood that Artemisia had been nothing like Chrysalis. Luna and Celestia had both shared a similar sentiment in earlier conversations that took place after the failed invasion.

With the whistles blowing, the final call for passengers to board the train was issued. Picking up the pace a little bit, Stripe was thankful for having gotten saddlebags since they were much easier. That and having just returned from a trip, he hadn't needed to pack anything. With his shield and weapons in place on his back and sides, he had everything that wasn't in his saddlebags. Looking at the train, he shook his head. He'd started his journey to a new life aboard a train. Now, fully settled into his new life and looking forward with confidence, he feels good. So, with some interesting irony, his journey to his new life also ends on a train. Chuckling a bit at it, he simply let loose a sigh, “I bucking hate trains,” before boarding to join the others.