Chapter 1: Assessment
Gallant Spark was a unicorn, but he was also more than that. He was also a proud member of the Equestrian Defence Forces. Specifically the 35th Royal Magical Support Unit. As such, he was used to being assigned to different units other than his own, where his talents could be best used. It was on Equistia's northern border, near the Gryphon Empire, that he was stationed, with a mixed unit of earth pony engineers and pegisi scouts, constructing a vital trade route between Equistia and the neighbouring kingdom. He expected to be posted there for about six months, ensuring the wilderness outside Equistia's borders didn't interfere with the railways construction.
The weather so close to the border was unpredictable. A team of weather ponies helped with the harsh conditions, but it still didn't stop the icy rain from chilling Gallant to the core through his waterproofed coat. Overseeing the work, he saw clear progress, and felt admiration to the skill and tenacity of the earth ponies under his watch. He stepped through the thick mud to the forepony, one by the name of Jack Hammer, in charge for the day, gently levitating a steaming cup.
"Sir, got something for you" the coffee levitating to the drenched earth pony.
"Why thank you kindly Gallant!" He sipped it with a content sigh.
"Beautiful weather were having today ain't it!" Gallant was not sure if the forepony was joking or not, not with the smile he saw beaming at him.
"Yes sir. Its.... Memorable to say the least" the unicorn looked over his charges. No matter the conditions, they just kept on going.
"Bet ya can't wait to get out of here mined. Can't be the most exciting of jobs watching us lay down track everyday" Gallant heard another content warm sigh. The weather was so cold, the fore ponies breath came out in thick clouds.
"No sir, if I'm honest With you. I like the quite jobs" and he really did. He just wish there was some challenge to it rather than the conditions.
"Is that right.... Well, don't get too confy. Seems someone needs ya someplace else" Jack pulled a letter from his saddle bag, handing it over. A slight glow of magic, and the deep purple unicorn summoned a minor barrier to shelter them from the rain as he read. It bore the seal of both the Equestrian Defence Force. But also the royal seal of Princess' Celestia and Luna. Gallant looked confused at first. The EDF seal was something he was familiar with. All his orders had it. However, he had only ever seen the royal seals on orders from high command. He certainly never received one himself. It read:
To Corporal Gallant H Spark of the 35th Royal Magical Support corp.
You have be summoned to Canterlot castle by order of the Equestrian Commander in chief, Her Radiant Majesty Princess Celestia. You are to board the next available train, where you will report with this letter directly to Canterlot Castle for reassignment.
Regards
Cap. R. Sharpe
Gallant read the letter again. His mind processing what was written. Normally, he would get his reassignments in the mail directly, or from a superior in the field. Never once has he been summoned directly to the castle, and most certainly not by one of the princesses who ruled Equistia. This was, in his mind, either very good or very bad. He thanked the forepony for the letter and headed to the barracks to pack. The next train was in an hour, and it would take the whole night to get to Canterlot.
Gallant's journey was uneventful, and he managed to sleep through most of it. The occasional stop or passing pony waking him for a few moments. He looked out of his coach window, admiring the night that Luna had painted. Since her return, he noted, the night skies had taken on a vibrant lustre. The deep navy blues, subtly mixed with violet and indigo, speckled in innumerable points of light. And in its focus, the bright moon itself, hanging serenely and calmly. He enjoyed the night, and let himself smile as his favourite part of the night started.
Luna's moon slowly descended to the horizon. As it did so, the edges of the sky gained a deep crimson glow. The sky soon started to explode in a variety of warming colours. Luna's moon and Celestia's sun meeting in the twilight of dawn.
The train stopped, the brakes squealing and the sudden gush of steam bringing him from the sight he saw as the conductor announced there arrival at Canterlot's main station. Grabbing his saddle bags loaded with his few possessions, he exited the lonely train to be greeted by a pale green unicorn dressed in official looking cloths. Her half moon glasses perched precariously as she scanned the train exits. Spotting Gallant, she waved him over enthusiastically.
"Corporal Spark! Over here!!" She called. He walked over to her saluting, she giggled lightly, making Gallant feel a little uncomfortable at the reaction. The filly coughed to compose herself.
"He he, sorry.. You can stand at ease Corporal. My name is Merry Mane, assistant to Princes Celestia. I'm here to make sure you reach the castle and act as your personal assistant during your visit. Do you have any questions?"
"Erm, yes ma'am. I'm not sure why I'm here, was wondering if you had any idea why I've been summoned to Canterlot exactly?"
"I'm afraid I can't disclose that information. The princess herself told me that the assignment she has in mind for you is something she wants to discuss with you personally" she said smiling cheerily so early in the morning.
"Wait... Wha? The princess wants to talk to me.... Personally?" Gallant was now very confused and nervous about the prospect of the coming meeting.
"Why yes, That's right. We should probably get some breakfast. Your probably quite hungry from your long journey and her majesty isn't expecting you till later this morning" Gallant had to admit he was starting to get hungry.
"Well, I've never been to Canterlot ma'am so I'll leave myself in your capable hooves" Merry stood blinking at that statement.
"My dear corporal, you are certainly missing out! Follow me, and I'll take you to one of my favourite eateries" she turned around abruptly and practically marched to the stations exit, Gallant following naturally instep.
The walk through Canterlots waking streets was interesting to the colt. The place had an extravagance he was unfamiliar with. The wide streets and boulevards twisted and turned in an almost alive manner. At the time, he was glad for the mares expert company as she led him through the maze, pointing out the many sights they passed. Soon they approached a comparatively modest looking cafe. The sweet smells of freshly baked goods wafting through the air made gallants stomach growl more than a starved timber wolf.
The made showed him to a seat outside, whilst she made the orders. He liked up at the unmistakable skyline created by the castle. His mind sorting through the various possibilities of his summons. His thoughts were disturbed by the spectacled made taking a seat opposite him, levitating a hot drink for herself and him.
"Thank you ma'am" he said, using his own magic to set the cup down.
"Your most welcome, though don't worry about the formalities, simply call me Merry" she beamed taking a sip.
"So... Merry. What's it like working for the princess?"
"Well, I'd say its quite rewarding. Not only do I get to work alongside her majesty, but I am also privy to canterlots nobility and upper classes from a safe distance. Between you and me, its quite entertaining"
Gallant half listened as the mare continued on, telling a story about how a minor noble attempted to woo the princess with various delicacies from far distant lands. The other half of his mind still trying to make sense of the situation as he took a sip of his drink. As the bitter and hot liquid passed down his gullet, his eyes widened and he sputtered. The made opposite stopped her story, looking at him in shock.
"My dear! Are you alright?"
"Yeah... I'm fine, just wasn't expecting such strong coffee"
"Oh I'm terribly sorry! Let me get you some water"
When breakfast arrived, the two ponies ate in near awkward silence. The food was good, warm buttered fruit bread served with a flowery jam. It was far more flavourful than what Gallant was used to, compared to other parts of equstria he had visited Canterlot finery seemed alien, and almost unsettling to the unicorn.
Once the meal was done, a bell in the distance rang loudly, announcing to the city that it was 9am. Merry Mane looked towards Gallant , a smile still etched on her face as she announced it was time to head to the castle for his meeting.
He filled her brisk pace toward the castle. The buildings become grander as the main gate came into sight, and the comfortingly familiar view of ponies on guard. They allowed Merry Mane through with little more than a glance, however Gallant had to show the guards his papers and have his saddle bags checked before being allowed to enter the castle. He complied without fuss, Merry Mane waiting patiently.
Now within the castle grounds, Gallant was taken by the assistant to a secluded part of the gardens. There a gazebo stood wreathed in vines. After being offered a seat he was left to view the gardens trickling pond. Dark shapes below the surface hinting at the fish swimming, skirting along the small waterfall and the many flowering pond plants. An air of calm was projected, and Gallant found himself unaware of the passage of time.
The sound of a tea caddy being drawn to the gazebo brought the unicorn out of hypnotism. Leyden with small cakes, various sandwiches as well as an impressive pot of tea and two cups, it was brought forward by one of the castles many staff. After expertly and wordlessly being layed out on the table they left Gallant alone, but for too long as he noticed now some guards at respectable distances. Almost hidden out of sight. Soon he heard the gentle, and long strides of another pony coming towards.
One of the princess's of Equstria, Princess Celestia appeared around the corner. Her perfect white coat seemed to glow with a regal radiance. He feathers, soft as clouds held at her sides relaxed as she walked towards the gazebo where Gallant was sat. Immediately, he rose from his chair, and bowed deeply to her. Her soft voice, serene and almost motherly spoke to him as she approached.
"Rise Corporal Gallant Spark, and please. Be seated, and make yourself comfortable. We have such to discuss, you and I"
"Yes your Majesty" he kept his eyes downcast and respectable as he got and took a seat opposite where the princess was taking her own seat. The princess poured two cups of tea, levitating one towards the rigid unicorn who took it thankfully.
"You can relax you know, I did say to make yourself comfortable. And please, with what we have to discuss, I would rather look you in the eye"
"Yes your majesty..." Gallant took a deep, calming breath. Closing his eyes to relax himself with the sound of the water in the background still. It took but a moment for him to find his centre before opened his emerald coloured eyes, looking directly at the princess' radiance.
" your likely eager to know about a variety of things Gallant. But in the mean time, I would to speak with you, and maybe ask a few questions as well"
"Of course your majesty. You may ask anything you wish of me"
"Good. I appreciate the openness your willing to give. There are many reasons why a pony chooses life in the Equestrian Defence forces. I was wondering what made you decide to enlist yourself?"
Gallant thought about the question. He had his reasons, but didn't want to sound foalish to the princess either. Honesty however won out in the end. After all, what kind of pony would he be for attempting to lie to the princess.
"I.. I joined up after I left school. Before that, I was with the Cadets. I wanted to join, because . well your majesty, I want to protect ponies, and Equestria. I don't like seeing others getting hurt by anything. When I got my cutie mark, it just confirmed it for me"
"And how did you get your cutie mark Gallant?" She said, smiling softly behind her cup as she took a sip of her tea.
"I... I saved someponys life during a school outing. I didn't realise I had got it till some pony pointed out to me. And, if possible your majesty, I would rather not get into the specifics of what happened that day" Gallant shifted in his seat a little. Glancing away from the princess before bringing his eyes back to her. Celestia noted the discomfort her guest was showing.
"You had a very interesting reason for signing up to the Defence Force. As I understand it from a one Captain Blitzkrieg, your not a very aggressive pony in combat. Rather, you act as a support element at the back"
Gallant let the cogs of his mind turn. Was the princess implying something about his conduct in the few field situations he was in? Was she asking him a trick question maybe, and if so, why would she? Granted, he wasn't a front line fighter but still.
"Begging your pardon your highness, but I stayed in the back acting as a support element because that is what I excel at, I'm sure the captain would have also mentioned the lack of injuries on those particular missions"
The princess gave a quite laugh. It seems, she thought, that she had hit a nerve of some kind.
"Yes he did, and as a result you have an exemplary record as a guardian to your fellow pony. He also noted your observation abilities whist in the field also. Abilities I can't help noticing you seem to have active at all times, even in the safety of the palace"
The colt sat there wide mouth, nopony had ever detected one of his more guarded abilities in the years he has been using it. It was a fine barrier type spell, un-noticable by normal methods. He thought to himself though, credit where credit is due. It took a princess to notice it. He hung his head apologetically
"I'm sorry your highness. Old habits are hard to kick, I barely notice I have the spell running most of the time"
"Its quite alright Corporal. And thank you for answering my questions for now. Though I do believe it is time to tell you why I have brought you here. You have been recommended and chosen to undergo a test for permanent reassignment from your current unit to a specialist unit. At this time, I cannot disclose its purpose. However if you prove to be successful, you will be the first of your kind. what I can tell you though, is that this unit will be entrusted with a very special mission vital to Equistria's safety. Now, corporal Gallant Spark. Do you wish to take this test?"
The unicorn was still processing the princess's question. He was being offered, directly by the princess, the chance to join a brand new unit. Offers like this don't happen. He thought to himself he would be a fool not to at least try. Especially with the weight of the offer itself for Equistria's safety. He stood from his seat, and bowed deeply before giving his answer.
"Your highness. It would honor me deeply to accept this test"
The princess smiled warmly. She hoped that this particular colt passed the test given to him unharmed at the very least.
" I am glad you have accepted Gallant Spark. Your test will be begin tomorrow. In the mean time, please use the hospitality provided by the castle. I will see you then, as I have duties to attend to. Have a pleasant day"
"Thank you, your Highness" was all he could reply as the princess left the table, attendants already presenting her with the rest of the days tasks.
When she was out of sight, Merry Mane stepped out from her position, standing next to the young unicorn, and beaming a wide smile.
"The princess seems fond of you. She grilled some of the other applicants into gibbering foals before going back to court"
"Other applicants ma'am?"
The mare giggled softly "I told you to call me Merry, corporal. And yes, other applicants. I suppose it won't do any harm. The princess has been interviewing and assessing many ponies over the past few weeks. None she has spoken thus far have met her expectations, or indeed passed the first test. But don't look so worried, Celestia seems to have some confidence in you"
She placed a comforting hoof on Gallant, who was obviously getting a little nervous with the situation he was invited into.
"Thank you Merry, I hope I can do the princess proud"
"That's the spirit! Now, follow me I will show you to your quarters for your stay. After that, I will give you a tour of the castle"
The mare took Gallant to his quarters as promised. He was stunned once that day at the extravagance of the room to the point he had to ask if they were in the right place. Lovingly furnished in warm colored woods and soft linens. The room to Gallant seemed more fit for nobility than a corporal of the Equestrian Defense Force.
It didn't take him long to unpack his meager belongings. All the while Merry was telling him the best places to go for food in Canterlot, what time meals were served and where to find them.
She opened the rooms balcony, looking out over the same gardens he met the princess in. She turned her head to look towards Gallant, that now familiar smile beaming at him.
"The balcony offers an excellent view. If you desire such things, its a good place to watch the raising of the moon later on, though I'm afraid I will have to retire to my quarters before then"
"Thank you Merry, I look forward to seeing it later on. in honesty, I think I'll save the tour of the castle when I'm a bit more relaxed. I'm not sure what this test is yet, so think I may rest up a bit and do some reading"
"Anything in particular?" The young mare asked.
"Eh, Its a thesis on the various applications of barrier based magic and how they interact with the other schools of magic. Its a pretty old thesis, written by Aegis The Protectorate, though its a pretty old paper, and the copy I have is missing sections"
"Well, if we have the time tomorrow then, we could look in the castle archives for a copy" she offered. Heading towards the chamber doors.
Gallant smiled back at her at the prospect. "It would be very much appreciated"
"I'll leave you to your studies for now then, if you need anything don't hesitate to ask some pony for help. I'll just be down the hall from you if you need anything"
"Thank you. I'll see you tomorrow Merry"
She waved her hoof through the door as she left, closing it behind her. Gallant let out a deep sigh, letting his rigid body relax. He had been stiff with worry for most of the day, and made a mental note to try and relax more. A note, he reminded himself he kept making.
With that in mind, he found a comfortable spot to settle down in with his incomplete thesis. He looked out of the balcony before turning the first page.
Several hours passed, and he was most of the way through his paper before Merry Mane insisted he get something to eat. He was soon back in his room, alone and back to reading his paper.
As time passed, the light started to fade. Gallant looked up, smiling softly to himself as he observed the spectacle of the sun setting and the moon raising. The sky was awash with the hot colours favoured by the sun princess herself, edging to the bright pink and purples. As the night edged its way into being, the air cooled with the colours. Bright purples deepening to cobalt blues. The white orb of the moon heralding in the night in proper.
He lit a candle. He only had a few more pages to read before he was done, and he was determined to at least finish up before his test tomorrow. He just hoped that it was related in some way to what he was good at.
The unicorn yawned with sleep as he was finishing up the section on using barrier magic as a method of accelerating or decelerating motion. It was incomplete, but he had been working on recreating the old spell the past few months. Gallant hoped that he would get the time to go to the archives as Merry Mane promised.
One final yawn heralded to Gallant his need to sleep. Looking at the clock, he realised why he was so tired. Midnight chimed at him, and he moved to his bed. It was far softer than what he was used to. Military issue beds weren't the life of luxury that this silk covered bed was. It didn't take him long to fall asleep. The moon being the last thing in his sight.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
He awoke the next morning. Not to the sounds of singing birds, nor the heat of the sun to his face but instead to the sounds of panic. He leapt out of bed, and headed to the door just as it burst open. Merry Mane skidded to a stop. Tears in her eyes as she looked to the unicorn.
"The changelings.... There back!"
"Wait, what?" Gallant rushed over to the mare before checking the corridor she just came from. "How did this happen?" He closed the door, erecting a strong barrier. The magic flowing from his horn in a shade of deep blue, alongside that spell, he sent a pulse of magic radiating from his location, giving him an idea of what ponies and none ponies were in the area. The results startled the unicorn.
"I don't know! They just appeared out of no where and started rounding up ponies" Merry Mane's breathing eased bit by bit. She was sat on her haunches in the room, head bowed in exhaustion. Gallant looked towards her.
"Where are the princess'?" He needed to figure out what was going on, and quickly if he was going to form a plan. Merry started to sob as she answered.
"I.... I don't know.... It happened so fast, I just ran!"
Gallant's features softened. For a moment, he forgot he was talking to somepony who had likely never been in this situation before. He needed to get her someplace safe, and then join up with what units he could. He played a hoof on her shoulder softly, and comfortingly.
"Merry, listen to me and look me in the eyes. I'm going to get you out of this, safe and sound. You have my word OK?"
They looked into each others eyes. Merry could see the honesty in them, as well as the determination they held. Gallant on the other hoof, could see that she was scared, but had faith in what he said. Even though he didn't know how he was going to pull it off yet.
"OK Gallant. What's the plan?"
"I'm going to use an area detection spell. We can avoid the changelings better that way, but its pretty short ranged. So were going to have to keep our eyes open. My guess is that the changeling attack will be heavier at the castle. If we can get out into the city, we can find help in the city guard. But I'm going going to ask you to do two things Merry"
"OK...what do you want me to do?"
"Well, I'll need you to help guide us out. I don't know the castles layout anywhere near as you do"
Merry nodded in agreement. With a plan being layed out, she was feeling a lot calmer than she did five minutes ago.
"OK...and the second thing?"
Gallant smiled at her warmly. Hoof still resting on her shoulder.
"Call me Gally. Its what my friends call me anyway"
Merry was at first perplexed before she started giggling. She stood up, and gallant was pleased to seen then same smile from her as he had grown used to.
"I'm sorry... Gally.... I didn't think a colt like you would have a nickname like that"
"You can blame my sister for that one. Now, let's get out if here"
Merry nodded in agreement and they both headed to the chambers door. With a thought, Gallant dropped then protective barrier around the room. Keeping the early warning barrier on, but to a more manageable thirty hoof radius to conserve his magic. He opened the door, checking the coast was clear before looking to Merry. She motioned left down the corridor and soon they were carefully moving through the castle. The sounds of buzzing wings and the high pitched keening of magic echoing down the now vacant halls.
Luna, princess of the night, moon, stars and dreams watched passively, hidden from mortal view.
Down a flight of stairs the stallion and made crept. Gallant leading the way, looking to Merry when they reached a turn or cross corridor. Gallant froze, midway down the staircase. Motioning Merry to stop as he cast an illusion barrier about them, the bubble of magic hiding them from passive view. Merry was about to ask what was wrong until the problem presented itself. Bursting through a side passage door, a group of five changelings scurried and buzzed into the room. There mandibles chattering to one another as they sought out there next victims.
Gallant could feel Merry hold him close. Shivering in fear at the sight of then wretched looking creatures in front of them. Gallant leaned against her comfortingly as he watched there movements.
One of the changelings, Gallant presumed the group leader started to chatter in short bursts to the others. one watched the corridor they had just come from, another looked around the room, whilst the fourth came up the stair case that Gallant and Merry were hiding on. He cursed his luck as it got closer. Its head cocking to one side as it inspected the slightly shimmering section of staircase. Its pock market hoof about to burst the barrier. Gallant prepared a blast, hoping to catch it off guard.
And that's when they heard it. The excited chattering of a changeling and the cries of a young pony. Gallant looked in horror beyond the changeling in front of him at the sight of a young filly. Wide eyed and dark blue coat bare of cutie mark. He could feel Merry Mane's tension at the sight as he formulated a plan quickly. He waited until all the changelings were in sight. His timing had to perfect.
The changelings gathered around the defenseless filly. And Gallant Spark saw his chance. He cancelled all his active spells, and gathered what energy he could at such short notice. The changelings had but a moment to notice the pair on the stairs before there world turn to painful white. Gallant's horn glowed and sparked as he used his magic to put a bubble of force around the five changeling's. Each glowing with pure white blinding light. He grabbed Merry Mane, bringing her with him as he ran straight for the filly. He vaulted the poor thing onto his back and simply ran, Merry galloping behind him, calling out directions on the fly.
Luna smiled approvingly as the entrapped changelings fazed out of existence. Her gaze following the trail left by the fleeing party.
Gallant, Merry and the filly dived into a vacant side room. The door slamming shut behind them. The stallion lowered the poor filly to the ground, before he himself collapsed. Sweat soaking his brow as he stopped the flow of magic, his horn smoking from the sudden spell combination. Merry looked at Gallant with genuine concern.
"Gally! Are you OK? Say something!" He looked up at the mare, his eyes strained. He smiled weakly.
"I'm fine Merry. Hows the filly?"
In a sudden moment of realisation Merry carefully approached the young filly. On closer inspection she found then poor filly was a pegasus. She was shivering and quietly sobbing to herself. Merry nuzzled the young one. And with a natural motherly tone, she spoke.
"Its OK, its OK. Your safe now little one. Are you hurt at all?"
Whilst Merry was making sure there new addition was OK, Gallant got up on unsteady legs to check the room they were hiding in. Looking around, he saw the door they came through securely sealed. The walls were lined with artwork. Pedestals with vases and statuettes were also dotted around the chamber. It would seem they took shelter in a gallery of sorts. He paced around looking at the various pictures. Artwork of the moon and stars dominated the majority of the pieces. For a moment he forgot about the changeling invasion.
He was broken from his appreciation of the artwork by Merry who came up to him, keeping an eye on the door and the filly.
"She seems OK. though the poor thing is rather shaken. That was a risky thing you did back there, you could have blown your horn out" she stated matter of factly before asking "How are you feeling now?"
"I'll be OK. Just need a few minutes before we can get going again" Gallant took a deep breath "I couldn't just leave her there. Yes, it put us at risk. But I just couldnt-"
Merry silenced the colt with a hoof. Her smile was almost infectious with its understanding.
"You did the right thing. I'm going to sit with Midnight until your ready to move. But.... Please, don't take your time" Merry's eyes betrayed her worry.
"So her names Midnight then?"
"Yes, Midnight Dream"
"Give me a few more minutes. Horns still a little sore"
Merry nodded in understanding, and went back to calming the young pony. Gallant used those minutes to recover some of his magic ether. He also used this time assess the situation. He found that some things just weren't adding up. First was the lack of warning of the changeling attack. Plausable, he thought considering there abilities. Then there was the fact that he was awoken, not by a guard... But by Merry Mane. Not forgetting the fact that he had not actually seen nor heard a guard since the attack started. And finally, there was the seemingly random filly, wandering a royal castle, by herself and during an attack. Gallant tested his magic and cast his detection barrier again. He frowned as his theory that the filly could have been a changeling was proven false, and the detection he swore was there for a split second that couldn't be found any longer. Maybe his magic was playing tricks on him in his tiring state he thought.
Luna let out a deep breath from the picture frame she hid inside. That was close she thought to herself.
Gallant took a moment longer to gauge his magic before looking over the the lime green unicorn and the midnight blue pegasus. Merry was busy keeping the young filly calm, though Gallant would also wager it was keeping her focused as well. He concentrated on his detection barrier briefly to make sure the coast was clear for certain before approaching the pair.
"You guys ready to move out?"
"Yes, were ready. How's your magic?" Merry asked, bringing the filly close as she came alongside Gallant.
"Low, but recovering" but slowly he thought to himself. The detection spell saw to that. "As long as we stay clear of too much trouble, we should be out of here. How long till we are out of the castle?"
"Not long, few more bends and corridors. But once we are out of the castle, what then? The city is probably crawling with changelings" Merry noticed the foal hug her leg in fear then. She peered down, smiling comfortingly to Midnight through her glasses. "Its OK little one, Gally will get us out of here safe" she looked up pleadingly to the stallion "won't you?"
"You have my word, under the gaze of Her Lumanating Highness, Princess Luna, I will get you both out of trouble as safely as I can. I promise" he looked with determined eyes and honesty at the pair. The filly looked up at Gallant.
"I trust you mister. Thank you" came the fillies soft voice. It caught Gallant off guard at first, but he smiled and placed a hoof on her head appreciatively before turning around. He went to the door, and opened it carefully not to make a sound.
"OK, coast is clear. Let's go"
They left the Luna gallery, and headed down the corridors of the castle once more. They followed Merry's directions still, stopping occasionally as Gallant detected a changeling patrol, letting them pass by.
As they carefully came through a corridor, its left side holding large panes of glass over looking a courtyard, Gallant stopped and looked. Up on a nearby tower, he found then solution to his problems and smiled.
"Gally, why did we stop?"
He pointed up at the structure. Moored to the tower was a small airship, and a scattering of balloons.
"The castle sky docks. If we can get to them, I can cast an illusion barrier and we can float out of here and find help. where do we need to be to get to the tower Merry?"
She lifted a hoof, pointing across the way to a matching corridor sixty feet away.
"But it will take a while to get back there Gally, we will have to retrace our steps an-" She was cut off, a horrified expression on her face as Gallant used his horn to cut a neat circle out of the glass pane.
"Gally! What in the name of Equistria are you doing!?"
"Cutting a hole in the glass" came the matter of fact reply.
"Yes, well, I can see that! But why?" Merry asked confused. He levitated the circle of glass carefully out of the hole he had made, gently placing it on the ground.
"So I can do this, and save us some time" he looked over the expanse between the two corridors and focused his magic. His horn glowed, and he could feel the magic coursing through the appendage as he brought force a barrier, bridging the gap. He exhaled deeply, sweat bubbling on his forehead. Merry was both stunned and apprehensive about this.
"You want us to cross that?"
"Yes, I do. Sooner we get across, sooner I can get you both safe. Levitate Midnight and stop her falling off. Merry, trust me. This will work"
"Gally, your already pushing your magic. Are you sure you can do this?"
"I'll be fine. But we better get going" and with that, he stepped onto the barrier and ran, making sure that Merry and Midnight were right behind him. It was a short run truth be told, but it was also exposed. Gallant hoped they would make it in time without getting spotted. It seemed too good to be true as they passed the halfway mark. That is, until Gallant felt from his spell a group of changelings approaching.
He looked up to have his fears confirmed. A trio of the insect like creatures were bearing down on them. One headed his way, the other two went for Merry and Midnight.
"Merry! Watch out!" He cried as he slid low along the barrier, letting his assailant rebound off the hard surface. Merry saw the two come in and fired off a succession of blasts at the creatures. Though none hit, it was enough to deter them as the broke off either side of her. Stealth gone, Gallant kept his pace going, and crashed through the window. He skidded along the polished stone floor and crashed into the opposing wall. Merry, Midnight still clutching onto her back soon followed and collided with Gallant just as he was recovering.
They shared a moment as they untangled from one another apologetically and awkwardly, with weak smiles. There moment was disturbed as they were reminded of the changelings who were swooping in from outside. Gallant shouted for them to run as he did something no unicorn would recommend.
When a unicorn dismisses a spell, its energies are released in a way that the magic goes back where it came from safely. If the caster doesn't. The effects can be spectacular.
Gallant looked over his shoulder, and waited for the changelings to close the gap to the window, before he collapsed his barrier bridge on itself. Dark purple magic spiraled in on itself. Heat and light cascaded from the core of power as it gathered before it imploded like an dying dark star. The force shattered the corridors remaining windows in a wave of fury that crashed into the pursuing creatures, sending them flying into the thick stone walls.
The trio were almost knocked off there hooves at the edge of the blast, but kept running. The sound it made would certainly attract unwanted attention.
Passing arched pillars of gold laced marble, there's surfaces cracked. Art work from ages passed, scorched or smashed. Bright tapestry's once hanging proudly, now frayed and torn. It seemed to Gallant that the heart of Equistria had been broken.
They came across a decedant arched door way. Engraved upon the cherry red wood, scenes of the sky. Pegesi, clouds and airships seemed to dance about one another. whatever defeated thought he was thinking, were dismissed by the sight of the door.
They stopped, breathing heavily with effort. Merry looked towards the stallion with a smile he almost forgot she could make.
"This is it. Just up this tower, and we will be at the docks" she looked at the poor filly on her back. "Midnight, how are you holding up?"
"I'm fine. I just want to get out of here" the filly said wearily. With that, they started ascending the spiral staircase of the tower. The journey up the stairs was taken data slower pace. The days activities wearing the ponies thin, there energy drained on a physical, emotional and magical level in some cases.
Gallant used this oppertunity to gather what was left of his magical reserves and to slowly recharge himself from the latent magical field of Equistria as he was taught. Looking down the stairs at Merry Mane and the following filly, Gallant considered this a good time to ask some questions.
"Hey Midnight. How are you doing back there?"
"Getting tired. How much further is it?"
"Not much longer now. So, if you don't mind me asking, how come you were wandering the castle by yourself?" He tried to ask the question as gently as he could, but then again, the look from Merry was rather stern. Midnight looked down at the stairs as they continued there ascent and replied
"I.. I live in the castle with my big sister... We got separated when those things came"
"I see. I'm sure she made it out OK" Gallant was unsure, but didn't get a chance to finish his thought as they came to the end of the stairs.
He crouched low, and extended his detection barrier a little bit more. It was getting harder he noted, and promised himself a good nights worth of sleep at the very least when this was over.
His spell showed him, Merry and Midnight... As well as the trio of changelings and two other ponies. Probably dock workers he thought. He looked down at the pair that followed him.
"Stay here. I'm going to clear the way" Merry looked confused.
"Don't you mean check the way?"
"Yeah, that too" he said as he sneaked his way forward towards the partially open door. He peeked through and confirmed his spell. There were three enemies. Two of them watched as the one seemed to drain the energy from a marble white pegasus, the other, a fiery orange pegasus, watched on in horror.
The group were on a long and narrow walkway, flanked by balloons and baskets on either side. Gallant looked around and saw what he was looking for.
The first the changelings knew of Gallant was the heavy weight on the end of a strong rope impacting upon one of the watching changelings, the other didn't have time to react as it watched its ally skid across the wooden floor. Gallants rear hooves impacting hard in a drop kick, knocking the other unconscious. The final changeling, feeling refreshed from its meal leapt up to attack Gallant with its own hooves, only to find he had moved out of harms way, and counter with a strike to its gut.
Gallant used his magic to gather his defeated enemies and tie them with the weighted rope before he saw to the two pegisi. The one that was being fed on was visibly shaking. The unicorn figured he won't get much out of him. The other was in better condition though, and Gallant started untying him.
"You OK? Anything hurt?"
"No, I'm fine. But what about Torque? Is he OK?" The winged pony was obviously worried about his friend, his neck craning to see over Gallants shoulder and making the process of freeing him difficult.
"Hey, hold still so I can these off you. Your friend will be fine, he's going to need some time to recover though"
"Husband"
"Wha-?"
"Torque is my husband! And I need to get to him!"
Once free, the pegasus dashed over and embraced his husband. Gallant looked on and shrugged before calling Merry and Midnight up the stairs and onto the platform.
"Coast is clear. We got two more up here, ones in rough shape the other seems fine though" the are and filly held looks of visible relief seeing there chance to escape. Gallant took the over to the two pegusi. Torque was looking a lot better, the other looked up with an expression of thanks.
"My name is Corperal Gallant Spark Equestrian defence forces, this is Merry Mane, assistant to Princess Celestia, and this is Midnight" they both bowed there heads to the winged ponies in ackowlegment.
"I'm Nimbus, and this is my husband Torque. Were both airship engineers here, and thank you for rescuing us Corporal"
"Yes, thank you!" Torque added. "If there's anything we can do, please let us know"
Gallant looked back his charges, before looking at the pegasi before them.
"Actually, there is something. I'm evacuating these ponies out of Canterlot, and I need to commandeer one of these balloons and get to Ponyville to tell Princess Twilight Sparkle what's happened here. You would be welcome to come with us"
The pegasi turned around, hooves over the other in a huddle as they discussed there options. Merry joined Gallant, and whispered to him, Midnight hidden behind her legs.
"Gally, what are you doing!? We need to get out of here before were caught by those things!"
"I'm giving them the choice of getting out of here safely. They probably know which balloon is the fastest too"
They waited patiently for the pegasi to finish there conversation, all the while keeping an eye open for any changelings. Gallant could feel Merry and Midnight getting progressively more nervous. He coughed
The changelings tied to a supporting pillar were starting to twitch.
"Erm, gentlecolts... I'm sorry to rush you, but we cant wait much longer"
The couple turned to face Gallant, there expressions going from neutral to slightly awkward smiles. Nimbus stepped forwards.
"We would like to come with you corporal. If there's anything we can do to help, let us know" Gallant smiled back at them before his determined expression returned.
"OK, we need to find the fastest balloon here, and get going as soon as. Do you two have any recommendations?"
Nimbus looked towards Torque, both getting a more comfortable smile as they were now getting in there comfort zone.
"That will be the H.R.A Sun Chaser. She's smaller than most, but with the right ponies driving her is the fastest ship"
Merry, Midnight and Gallant smiled wide there goal in sight.
"We best get going then, before these three wake up" Gallant stated, nodding towards the currently unconscious changelings.
The five of them moved along the sturdy decking, passing balloons and airships of various designs, uses and colours, all tethered the robust wood work. It wasn't long until they came to there vessel. Painted a purest white, chased in gold was a small ship. It looked like somepony had taken an elegant schooner from the seas and replaced the sail with a long and narrow balloon. The rudder replaced by a trio of gold plated fans. By estimation, Gallant thought than maybe ten ponies could comfortably spend the day onboard. The sun sigil embellished the ships rear, marking it as one of the princess' personal airships. As they boarded the ship, Gallant detailed his plan.
"I don't have much magic left, so I won't be able to shield us, so were going to have to floor it. Torque, Nimbus if you fly us out I'll keep watch on deck. Merry, keep Midnight close and watch for anything coming from below us. If were lucky, we will be out of here without being spotted.
After that, we will land in Ponyville. You guys will head over and find the princess. Tell her what's happened and stay safe"
Once on the upper deck, Merry looked concerned and confused.
"What about you? Sounds like your not coming with us"
"I'm not, I'll take the airship back to Canterlot and see if I can link up with the guards or get more civilians to safety. I may even be able to find the princess's"
Gallant opened the hatch to descend into the bowels of the ship. Expecting to be met by the darkened interior, instead he was blinded by light, and the world seemed to stop in place.
Gallant shielded his eyes and gritted his teeth. So close, so damned close! He thought angrily to himself. He went to yell out to others to get back, but was deafened as he heard a strong voice call out.
"STAND DOWN CORPORAL GALLANT SPARK! THOU ART IN NO DANGER!"
Gallant was physically stunned by the volume of the voice, and felt compelled to listen and stay still, watching as the bright light dimmed. A dark shadow forming in the centre of his vision. As it cleared, a dark blue form appeared, her regal stature and starry mane unmistakable. She stepped forward out of the white void that now surrounded them. Gallant looked around, not seeing anyone except himself and Princess Luna. She looked down upon the deep purple unicorn, smiling.
"Fear not Gallant Spark. Those that accompanied you are safe"
" Princess Luna, please forgive me, but what is going on?"
"You are dreaming" she stated matter of fact. She paced around him, showing him his own sleeping self back in his bed.
"Wait, so all the stuff with the changeling's, Merry Mane, the filly, that never happened?"
"Yes, it did. The experiences you felt were very real. The fear, the courage, all of it"
"But, how? I've never had such a a vivid dream"
Luna simply smiled at him before showing him various points in the dream. His promise to Merry, saving Midnight, his vow.
"I am the princess of the night, and dreams are within my domain. You dreamed what you dreamed, because I made it that way"
Gallant sat slack jawed, trying to process what he was told.
"It was your test. One of many you may face in your life to come....
And I'm pleased to say.....
You have passed"
