Life Is Never So Simple

Chapters

Prologue: Messing With The Guard
What's Wrong in the Imperium?
Stars Swirl No More
Arrival In the Imperium

Prologue: Messing With The Guard

Ooh, this was going to be good.

Indigo Sky sat giggling behind a low brick wall, struggling to see over it with his short legs. The foal was very anxious. “Is it really gonna work, Sombra?” he asked the dark gray unicorn crouching next to him. The light of the pale moon made Sombra’s gray fur appear to glow.

“Shh, Indigo! Don't let them hear us!” Sombra said with a goofy grin on his face. Indigo closed his mouth and nodded quickly. He again turned and tried to see over the wall, only to feel himself lifted by Sombra’s magic and dropped on his back. The unicorn giggled and burrowed down into Sombra’s mane. Sombra giggled and hushed Indigo as a group of Royal Guard marched toward the barracks on the other side of the street. The two unicorns sat silently, staring as the guards halted and a pegasus turned the knob on the door. As soon as the door creaked open there was a loud pop and an explosion of pink powder. The guard shouted in surprise and jumped back, running into another guard as the group was enveloped in the powder.

Indigo lost it. Roaring with laughter, the foal fell off of Sombra’s back, rolling on the ground and clutching at his sides. Sombra fell down beside him, beating the ground with silent jubilance.

The cloud was clearing across the street. Several guards stumbled about, coughing or trying to wipe off the sparkly pink dust they were now doused in. The pegasus who had opened the door snorted and flapped his wings to no avail. Whatever the dust was, it was not coming off easily. The guard heard laughter from across the street and turned. Two young unicorns, one clearly several years older than the other, were rolling on the ground behind a low wall covered with creeper vines. The pegasus narrowed his eyes and began walking across the street with swift steps. “You two! I demand you stop and explain yourselves!”

Sombra stopped laughing when he heard the guard and saw him walking across the street. Even covered in glittery pink, he still looked intimidating. Indigo stopped a moment after Sombra, young mind blissfully unaware of the potential trouble they were in.

“Sombra? What is wrong?” the other unicorn didn't answer, he instead picked Indigo up with his magic and rested him on his back. The guard looked down on the two with a fiercely stern gaze. Sombra chuckled nervously and backed up a little.

“We are terribly sorry. Is there a problem?” he did a surprisingly good job in feigning innocence. The guard narrowed his eyes and bent down to look Sombra in his.

“We do not appreciate this little trick. You two need to come with me,” the pegasus reached for Sombra, who quickly wheeled around and began running down the street. Indigo squealed and clung tightly to Sombra’s fur, almost falling off. “Stop! I demand you stop!” the pegasus made a quick gesture and a few of the guards began running down the street after them.

Sombra was a fast runner, but that didn't change the fact that he was a young foal running from three grown stallions of the royal guard. In a matter of moments the guard were upon them, almost close enough to touch. Frantically Sombra charged up his magic and his horn flashed. The next thing he knew, he and Indigo were tumbling to the floor in a dark room.

Indigo groaned and sat up. Oh, his head hurt. He rubbed his temples and looked to his right, seeing Sombra getting to his hooves. The older unicorn looked dazed and was swaying from side to side. Tendrils of white smoke drifted up from his gray fur, which was singed black on the ends. Indigo looked at his legs and saw his own dark fur was crispy. The foal rose to his legs and felt a large shadow come over him. Sombra made a little ‘eep’ and shrunk back a little. Indigo looked up and saw the towering form of Princess Luna staring down on them. “Sombra,” she said icily. “We demand to know what you are doing,” Luna’s tone left no room for anything but an answer from Sombra. He sighed and looked up at her guiltily, like he was looking at his mother.

“We played a trick on a detachment of guard,” Sombra mumbled. Luna sighed and face-hoofed.

“You two must stop playing these tricks all the time. We do not think you are leaving a good impression on Indigo, Sombra,” the gray unicorn looked down and flattened his ears against his head.

“Wait a minute!” Indigo said, jumping forward. “Sombra is an amazing friend and...” Indigo trailed off as Luna looked at him sternly.

“Do not speak out of place, little one. You must learn to respect your superiors,” she turned back to look at Sombra. “Leave. I will deal with you later,” Sombra wilted and trudged to the large wooden door behind them. Indigo shuffled in place, uncertain of what to do. Luna sighed and walked back to her bed. Only then did Indigo notice that they were in Luna’s personal chambers.

“Princess? Should I leave?” he asked timidly. She stared at him for a moment and gave a small smile. Indigo relaxed at the sight and cautiously followed Luna. She patted the spot on the bed next to her and he jumped up, laying down and snuggling up next to her side. She chuckled a little and looked down at him.

“Indigo, you must promise me something. On your little...exploits with Sombra, you must distinguish between right and wrong. Learn where to draw the line. Sombra can become out of control, and I don't want my own two students getting in serious trouble. Can you promise me that?” she raised an eyebrow and he nodded quickly.

“Yes I can Princess. Um...am I in trouble?” Luna sighed again and hung her head.

“Unfortunately, my student, yes you are. I can not allow an offense like this to go uncorrected. For the time being both you and Sombra are to remain in the castle. You shall not be allowed to leave for any purpose,” Indigo huffed and dropped his head to the bed. Luna spread her wing over him and gave a little nudge with her elbow.

“The castle is still a big place, you know. Perhaps you want to go find Sombra? Tell him what I told you,” Indigo nodded glumly and jumped off the bed, trotting the door and out into the dark hallway.

The princess was right, the castle is a VERY big place. Indigo searched for an hour looking for Sombra but couldn't seem to find him. Finally, Indigo entered the darkened royal library and called out softly. “Sombra? Are you in here?” Indigo walked into huge room, hooves clacking on the hard floors.

“Yes,” the single word made Indigo jump. He followed the voice deeper into the library, toward the forbidden archives. With each step he grew a little more anxious. Luna told him to never go back here. Eventually, he found Sombra sitting at a low table, light from his horn illuminating the large book in front of him. Indigo walked up and sat in the chair next to Sombra, trying to look over his shoulder.

“What book are you reading?” he asked curiously. Sombra snapped the book closed and quickly lifted it high into the air, setting it back on one of the upper shelves.

“Nothing to be concerned with. Why are you here?”

“Luna said we're not allowed out of the castle for a while. Because of our little joke,” Sombra groaned and slumped down in his chair. Indigo nudged his shoulder.

“The castle is still a big place. And we still have each other to play with!” Indigo giggled and rocked his chair. Sombra chuckled quietly.

“That we do. We can still have a lot of fun!” Indigo stopped rocking and gave Sombra a hug.

“You’re the best, Sombra,” Sombra smiled and hugged Indigo back.

“Yes I am...”

What's Wrong in the Imperium?

Indigo cracked open his eye and looked over at Sombra. The gray unicorn’s eyes were squeezed shut in concentration and his horn was flaring brightly. Indigo’s was doing the same, and a cold sweat dripped down his face. He tore his attention away from Sombra and back to the challenge. Transmutation was hard enough, smoothly turning one form of matter into another without destroying it, but changing one element into another was damn near impossible. Indigo scrunched up his face in concentration and poured all he had into the spell. Gradually he felt the ball of suspended water before him shift. The water collapsed in on itself, rearranging it’s basic build. Indigo opened his eyes as a large ball of hardened dirt fell on the ground before him and Sombra. With a puff Indigo released the magic, followed shortly by Sombra. His legs were shaking and his head spun. He felt exhausted. Sombra was not in a much better state, swaying on his hooves and panting. The two looked at each other and smiled, silently congratulating each other. The clack of steel brought Indigo’s attention to Luna, who was walking over to them with a wide grin on her face.

“Marvelous job, the both of you. Most unicorns are not able to do magic of that caliber,”

“Thank you, princess,” Indigo said with a small bow. Sombra smirked and rubbed his head.

“I would like to know the practical application of this. Its enormously time consuming and draining,” he said, eyeing the ball of dirt with distaste.

“Well, when you are stuck in the desert or there is a drought, you tell me how useless it is,” she turned and motioned for the two of them to follow. Together, the three walked through the castle grounds, illuminated in the light of the setting sun. Birds twittered in the tall green trees and a stream babbled along next to the winding gravel path the trio strolled along. Indigo had always loved this place, it was so quiet and peaceful. He remembered when he was a foal, and he and Sunny used to come play here. Those were good times. Indigo was snapped out of his reverie when Sombra nervously cleared his throat.

“Princess? I was curious as to whether or not I could be allowed access to the forbidden archives?” Sombra inquired hopefully, increasing his stride to match the princess. She gazed at him sidelong with a suspicious expression.

“Absolutely not. Nopony but Starswirl, Celestia and I may enter the archives,”

“Princess please! It will help so much in my studies! There’s magical knowledge in there I have only dreamed of,” Indigo quickened his place and placed a hoof on Sombra’s shoulder.

“Friend, you do not need to go in there. Please drop the issue. It will gain you nothing but another argument with Luna,”

“He speaks the truth,” the princess was still looking straight ahead. “Under no circumstances are you to be allowed access to the archives. The knowledge they contain is too dangerous,”

Sombra opened his mouth as if to respond, but a look from Indigo made him close it glumly.

“If not the archives, may I finally be allowed access to the restricted section? I think the time is long overdue,” he looked at Luna expectantly. She sighed and a wide grin spread across his face. He had learned over the years that generally when Luna sighed like that, it was a sign of defeat.

“I believe I will be able to make that happen. For you and Indigo both,” Indigo gave a small smile and moved around to stand on the other side of the princess.

“Thank you very much, auntie Luna,” she smiled at the affectionate title and nuzzled his cheek.

“No trouble at all. I do hope you two will take care in your readings. Some of the magic in the restricted section should not be practiced with a careless heart,” Indigo and Sombra nodded quickly and shot each other excited grins behind Luna’s back. She chuckled lightly, pretending not to notice. As the trio approached the gate they were stopped by a gray unicorn with yellow eyes and a flowing blue cape speckled with stars and crescent moons. The bells on his large, pointy had jingled and gleamed in the sunlight. His flowing white beard swayed as he stopped and fixed the three of them with a kind, crinkly smile.

“Starswirl!” Indigo exclaimed, rushing forward and enveloping him in a hug. The unicorn ‘oofed’ and chuckled, patting the exuberant colt on the back.

“Hello, Indigo. It’s good to see you again. Hello to you as well, Sombra,” the other unicorn smiled and nodded his head, stepping up to Starswirl as Indigo retreated.

“It’s been a long time,” Sombra said with a grin as he pulled Starswirl into an embrace of his own.

“That it has. How are your studies going?”

“Very well. You just missed us practicing transmutation,”

“Really? Transmutation already? I wish I could have been th-”

“Starswirl, forgive my interjection, but I must know why you have returned so soon You said you would be in Avion for another six months,” Luna said with a hint of confusion. Starswirl sighed and rubbed his forehead. In an instant all vitality seemed to drain from the unicorn He looked tired and worn.

“I’m afraid that the Griffin Imperium has fallen into civil war. The rebels attacked Avion not two weeks ago. I was visiting with the king in the royal hall when they launched their attack. The king made me leave the city. There...was nothing I could do. I only escaped since the rebels ignored me. The army was fighting ferociously with them, and I promised I would return and secure assistance for the griffins in their time of need.” Starswirl took a deep breath and straightened, instantly composing himself and staring Luna in the eyes.

“That’s why I have returned. The griffins need our help. I was going to ask you and Celestia to send aid to the imperium. Now that you know, I must insist we deploy our forces to assist the griffins,”

Luna frowned and rubbed her muzzle thoughtfully. Indigo gave Sombra a look that portrayed confusion, nervousness, and even a little fear. Sombra’s own stony look softened and he gave Indigo a small smile. Starswirl continued to stare at Luna with determination, oblivious to the two colts’ silent exchange.

“This is most troubling news indeed,” Luna said finally, looking up at Starswirl with a stony look. “The griffins have been our long standing allies. We cannot allow them to go unaided in their time of need,” Starswirl nodded and lifted the corner of his mouth in the smallest of smiles. Luna walked past her students, her magic blooming to life as the large gates swung inward on silent hinges. Starswirl fell in step with Luna, talking to her in fast whispers. Sombra and Indigo lagged behind their older companions. Sombra stared straight ahead with a stony expression, his eyes fixed on a point above Luna’s head. Indigo’s eyes flitted about nervously. He was clearly much more nervous than Sombra was. Indigo’s mind kept jumping from ridiculous situation to even more ridiculous situation, and he couldn't stop himself. What if the griffin rebellion spread? What if the other griffin kingdoms descended into anarchy? What if Equestria was invaded?! Images flashed through his mind of The Glimmering City of Canterlot burning to cinders. Ponies slaughtered in the streets my griffins clad in black leather armor. The blood of the innocent and warriors alike flowing in the streets.

Indigo shook himself out of his self induced stupor and took a deep breath, forcing his dark thoughts to the back of his head. He felt a nudge on his shoulder and looked to see Sombra gazing at him with concern. It was clear, at least to Indigo, that the older unicorn was nervous as well. Sombra was much better at hiding it though.

“You alright?” Sombra whispered with concern. Indigo nodded and twitched the corner of his mouth in a semblance of a smile. Sombra gave a small smile back and the two stopped as Luna paused before the doors to the great throne room. She turned and addressed her students as Starswirl stood patiently by the door, smile line crinkled face distorted by a frown.

“You are to wait here while Starswirl and I inform my Celestia of what has transpired in the Imperium. Please be patient while we discuss this rather...important issue. It may take a while,” with this Luna turned and quietly opened the double doors with her magic. Starswirl paused briefly in the doorway and gave Indigo and Sombra a sad smile before following Luna and closing the doors behind him. The two golden clad pegasi flanking the doors stood in silence as Indigo and Sombra walked down the hall a short ways and slid down to sit on the floor. For a while, the two sat in silence for a time before Indigo spoke.

“War in the Imperium. Can you believe it?”

“As much as I would like not to, I can. Tensions have been...high in the Imperium for quite some time,”

“I never would have thought that it would have degenerated into open rebellion, though. The griffins are always so composed. How do they not like Tiberius? He’s such an amazing griffin!” at this Sombra raised his eyebrow and gave Indigo a pointed look.

“Be that as it may, he has not been the best king of late. He’s been very strict in the enforcement of his laws and none to lenient toward dissenters,” Indigo frowned and slumped back against the wall, falling silent. They sat waiting for a few more minutes before the door to the throne room opened and the princesses strode out. Sombra and Indigo climbed hastily to their feet as the two Alicorns walked up to them.

“Good afternoon, Sombra. Indigo,” Celestia said with a slight nod toward each of them. “Thank you for your patience while we discussed this topic. And I believe-” she gave a pointed look at Luna, who huffed and looked away, clearly not happy. “We will be reinforcing the griffins-” Starswirl gave a firm nod at this, which Celestia ignored and continued on. “For a multitude of reasons I would rather not explain, I will not be able to lead our armies. Therefore-”

“I will be leading the Lunar regiments to the Imperium tomorrow night,” Luna interjected, cutting off a slightly annoyed Celestia. Luna’s expression turned to one of slight regret as she continued. “This means, then, that all my closest will have to accompany me. Especially those with any combat training...” Luna trailed off as Indigo’s eyes widened and he and Sombra looked back and forth between the three in front of them. Slowly, the two grasped what was happening.

“We're...we're going to war with you?”

“Unfortunately, yes,” Celestia had the most disgusting look of pity on her face.

Stars Swirl No More

“Do you think we'll have to fight?” Sombra paused his gathering at the question, thinking of the best way to respond. For the past several minutes Indigo had sat in silence as Sombra gathered together a few belongings from around his bedchamber.

“I don't know,” Sombra said slowly, resuming his packing. “But, with how things are and how small the lunar regiments are, I believe we will probably have too,” Indigo frowned at this and hung his head.

“I don't want to kill anypony,” Indigo had mumbled it quietly, but the words sounded like a gong in Sombra’s ears. He quickly spun around and sat down next to Indigo.

“You won't have too. At the most you might have to cross blades with a rebel or two. I promise you,” he put his arm around Indigo’s shoulder and gave him a half hug. “I won't let anything bad happen,” Sombra gave a reassuring smile and Indigo chuckled.

“That’s you, always the optimist,” Indigo frowned a little and stood up, followed quickly by Sombra. “At least now we’ll have an opportunity to use the Twins,” Sombra’s smile faded and he walked over to a dusty chest nestled in the corner of the room. Unlocking it with his magic, he threw open the lid and pulled out a sword of shimmering black. Indigo felt the waves of magical power radiating from the blade, and as always when he saw the sword, he was awestruck.

“Never thought I would have too,” Sombra mumbled more to himself than Indigo. He held the dark sword suspended before him with his magic, admiring the brilliant craftsmanship. The black blade and equally black hilt flowed seamlessly into each other. Having no opposable digits, or an digits whatsoever, made having a crossguard rather redundant. The leather wrapped grip was more for show than anything else, and the only of differentiation color was the brilliant navy blue diamond inlaid into the hilt. The blade of the sword was straight as an arrow and completely flawless, ending in a wicked triangular point. Sombra let out a deep breath and withdrew the scabbard from the chest, soundlessly sliding the sword into it.

“You should go and get Nox,” he said to Indigo, breaking him out of his stupor.

“What? Oh, yeah. Right,” Indigo walked quickly out of the room and came back a minute later with a sword and scabbard suspended by his magic. Both were identical to Sombra’s, but instead of black were a rich navy blue, with a black diamond substituting the blue one. Indigo strapped the scabbard to his back and slid the sword in smoothly. He stood and looked at Sombra expectantly, who raised his eyebrow.

“What?”

“We're leaving now, right?”

“You aren't getting anything else?”

“There’s nothing I have that is worth bringing with. That armor we got for the gala last year is a joke, that wouldn’t protect me from a bee sting,” Sombra snorted and picked up the small pile of his possessions and strode past Indigo, who followed him out the door and down the long hallway.

“That armor isn't completely useless. It seems to serve you well whenever I pound on you in training,” Sombra said smugly. Indigo snorted in derision and quickened his stride, catching up to Sombra.

“You only beat me because I was tired,”

“A few times, maybe. But what about the other times I've beaten you over the years?”

“Oh, please. I've beaten you too!”

“It’s a very lopsided ratio,” Indigo huffed and punched Sombra on the shoulder. He laughed and shoved Indigo playfully.

“At least you no longer hit like a little school filly,”

“Shut up!” Sombra laughed again and the two fell into a happy silence as they approached the throne room. The guards at the door bowed to the two as they approached and swung it open, revealing the princesses and Starswirl already within. Luna was organizing a contingent of guard from around the city along with Celestia. Starswirl stood of to one side, a small smile on his face. The great wizard looked extremely tired. His gray coat was droopy and turning white. The bags under his eyes betrayed his exhaustion, and his hat leaned listlessly to one side of his head. Even the unicorn’s trademark beard hung lazily. Indigo and Sombra walked over to him quickly, avoiding the bustling soldiers. His smile widened as he saw the two approach.

“Ah! Hello boys!” he moved to meet them but stopped and fell into a fit of coughing. The younger unicorns rushed over to him with concern.

“Starswirl! Are you alright?” Indigo asked as he held up the swaying wizard. The old stallion chuckled wearily but didn't answer. The other two glanced at each other nervously.

“Starswirl, I think-” Sombra started before he was cut off.

“I’m old boys. So very old. I've seen so much. Three centuries catch up with you eventually,” he fell into another coughing fit and would have fallen had Indigo not been holding him. Sombra frowned and shook his head.

“No, no. You’re fine. You're just sick,” Sombra sounded like he was trying to convince himself. Starswirl only chuckled and patted Sombra on the shoulder.

“As much as I would like to believe that, I can’t. Death is something we all must face. Well, all except for them, maybe,” he nodded his head toward the princesses, who had noticed Sombra and Indigo walk in and were slowly approaching the small group. Sombra rounded on them with desperate eyes.

“There’s something you can do, right? You can heal him!” Sombra sounded very hopeful, but that hope quickly faded as Celestia shook her head sadly.

“The journey out of this life is one everypony must make at some point. There’s...nothing we can do,” Celestia took a deep breath and it looked as if Luna was trying to hold back tears.

“How...how long do you think you have?” Indigo’s voice was very quiet and he was starting to shake.

“Not long, I'm afraid. I used up what little energy I had left in the escape from Avion. I would...like to see the night sky again. From the northern turret. It’s such a lovely view,” Luna smiled sadly and nodded, the tears breaking free and flowing down her cheeks. She took Starswirl from Indigo, supporting him with her wing, and the procession made it’s way through the winding castle after Celestia gave a few quick words to the captain of the guard. They remained silent until they reached the top floor of the northern tower, a cylindrical room with no adornment other than a telescope on the balcony. Luna helped Starswirl out to the telescope and he took a deep breath of the crisp night air.

“Ah...it always was so lovely up here,” he turned his gaze to the others, all of whom but Celestia were near weeping.

“Come now, don't be so sad. It’s my time,” he sat down heavily and smiled toward Indigo and Sombra.

“I remember you two as little colts. What trouble makers you were,” he chuckled a little and coughed again.

“But look at you now. Two young colts in the prime of their lives. You two made my final decades some of the best I've ever lived,” he turned toward Luna and Celestia then, meeting their eyes with a kindly smile.

“I would need another five decades to fully explain how proud I am of you two. I still remember, you know. When you were fillies. I won't be too sappy, just...know that Galaxia and Cosmos would be proud of you,” Luna’s tears turned into silent sobbing and Celestia closed her eyes, the single tear sliding down her face speaking volumes.

“I love you all. So very dearly,” Sombra rushed up to him and pulled Starswirl into a gentle embrace, followed a moment later by Indigo and then the princesses. The group sat in silence for several moments before Sombra whispered:

“Goodbye, Starswirl the Bearded,”

“Ha. It’s funny. I never really liked that title,” with these words his eyelids slid closed and Starswirl’s breathed for the last time.

The greatest unicorn in history was dead.

Indigo broke down in tears, hugging Luna tightly as she too wept. Celestia allowed silent tears to spill out and Sombra simply sat there, mouth hanging open in disbelief. Before his eyes, Starswirl’s cutie mark faded away with the last of his life force. Luna and Indigo continued to cry for several more minutes before their sobbing petered out and the procession fell silent.

“I...I will call for some of the guard to come take him. Luna, you have soldiers to organize. I will remain here,” Luna shot Celestia a look of mild disgust but rose to her hooves and beckoned to Sombra and Indigo, who slowly followed her out of the tower after a final glance at the late unicorn.

“We won’t miss his funeral, will we?” Indigo’s voice was hoarse from crying and he was shaking all over. Sombra lagged behind the other two, deathly silent and staring at the floor in front of him.

“No. Definitely not. I will ensure that the funeral takes place after we return from the campaign,”

“Wait!” Sombra snapped his head up and rushed up to meet Luna. “That’s preposterous! How long will we be in the Imperium? I won’t stand to-”

“Sombra!” Luna’s sudden use of the royal Canterlot voice sent Sombra reeling.

“Know your place! Do not speak to me in such a way. No matter how close we are, you will always be my student. You would do well to remember that,” Sombra sulked back and Indigo gave him a small shrug.

“Besides,” Luna continued, staring straight ahead of her.

“Starswirl wanted us to assist the griffins. It was his last request to me, and I’m sure he wouldn’t want us to risk innocent lives by delaying our march for his funeral,” her tone almost challenged Sombra to rebut. He went with the more sensible option and moped as they continued to the throne room. Luna paused at the entrance and turned to address Indigo, who was still a little bleary eyed and shaky.

“You would do well to compose yourself Indigo. These are professional soldiers who have dedicated their lives to the service of their nation. They are already unhappy that somepony younger than them and with little training will be their technical superior. I would be good to make a pleasant first impression,” her gaze softened a little.

“I know you are sad from Starswirl’s death. I...I am as well. But there will be time to grieve later. Now is the time to honor his final wish,” Indigo took a deep breath and nodded. He quickly rubbed his eyes and stood straight, readjusting the sword sheath on his back with his magic. Sombra stepped up beside him and the two gave each other a small nod. Sombra, however, seemed distant. He even seemed...angry. Indigo ignored it and turned his head back as Luna swung open the door to the throne room. The Night Guard, or Lunar Regiment as they were commonly called, of the city had been organized and now sat in orderly rows, turning to look as Luna entered. Unlike the Solar Regiments, which were the majority of the armed forces, the Lunar was composed mainly of bat ponies and ebon unicorns, the equivalent of bat ponies. Whereas bat ponies were pegasi of the night, ebons were unicorns of the night. The golden eyes of the soldiers gleamed as they watched Luna walk quickly to the head of the gathering, tailed by her two students. Indigo appeared slightly nervous around so many night creatures. Sombra simply walked forward with a neutral expression, no giving anypony so much as a glance. Luna turned and addressed the assembled soldiers, a group of about two hundred.

“I am not going to give you a long winded speech about ‘honor’ or ‘duty’. You should have already gotten one from the captain,” quiet chuckling rippled through the crowd at this, and Indigo smiled a little from his position behind Luna. At least they had a sense of humor.

“Our goal is simple,” Luna continued, instantly silencing them.

“We are moving to assist the griffin imperium in whatever way we can. Be that by combat or helping look after their displaced civilians. We march tonight.We will meet the rest of the Night Guard near the western mountains two days from now, and from there march to Avion,” she paused briefly and scanned the faces of the soldiers.

“May luck be with us,”

Arrival In the Imperium

“Indigo! Sombra! What’s up guys?” Sombra groaned and slammed his hoof to his forehead as Indigo smiled and turned spun around. A bat pony in black armor with equally black fur and a silver mane was approaching them. His yellow eyes glinted through his helmet above a cocky smile that showed off his sharp fangs.

“Night! Its been a long time!” Indigo pulled the bat pony into a rough hug. Nightwish grunted and chuckled.

“Nice to see you still favor violence. Sombra! Why haven’t you said hi to your old buddy yet?” Night put on a fake pouty face and poked Sombra in the side. He turned around, wearing a very forced smile and gave Night a small nod.

“It has been a while. I was hoping it would be a little longer. How go things in the frozen north?”

“Oh, they go. Not much interesting happens, except for a few incursions by roving bands of Diamond Dogs. This though!” he flung his arms around Indigo and Sombra’s shoulders and pulled them in close to him. “This is exciting! Going to help the griffins in their time of need, like brave heroes!” he smiled ridiculously big and Indigo sniggered. Sombra rolled his eyes and disentangled himself from the other two, leaving Night dangling off Indigo and almost causing the two to collapse.

“Hardly. We’re just doing what needs to be done. And, by the way, should you not be with your commander?” Sombra gestured to the mess of soldiers around them, all jangling and shuffling about as the brass struggled to organize them. The throng was very loud as the soldiers conversed noisily and laughed with each other.

“Yes I suppose. But who's going to find me in the midst of this madness? I think I’m good for a visit with some old buddies,” Indigo chuckled and lifted Night’s leg off his shoulders, making him stand on his own.

“And you’re always welcome to visit. Speaking of this madness, how did you find us in it?”

“I just looked to see where she was,” he inclined his head to Luna, who was several meters away surrounded by babbling generals and advisors. “The princess of the night is sort of hard to miss. Since you lot are so buddy buddy, figured you'd be near her. So! Gold Regiment just cracked open some barrels of hard cider! Who’s up for a drink?

“No thank you. I never enjoyed alcohol. And Indigo,” Sombra threw him a pointed look. “You are still too young to drink,”

“Yeah, I know,” Indigo grumbled.

“Hmm. Pity. Well, I want some buzz in my blood before I go marching into unknown country. See you fools later!” Night made a show of spinning around and strutting off into the mess of soldiers.

“Goddesses above I hate him,” Sombra whispered under his breath. Indigo heard him and snorted.

“Yes and you could only be more obvious about it if you screeched ‘I hope you burn in Tartarus,’”

“Am I really that unsubtle?” Sombra inquired as the two turned and muscled their way toward princess Luna.

“More so. You never were very subtle,” Indigo smiled as they pushed past a knot of guards and finally were standing next to the princess. She noticed them stumble up and smiled in relief.

“Oh, it’s good to see you two,” she waved off some captain or lieutenant trying to get her attention. “Do you have any idea what its like trying to coordinate an idle force of thirty thousand? It’s a logistical nightmare. We’ve been delayed in our departure by two days because of bad road conditions in the south,” she paused and finally listened to the hurried soldier. “Well, at least the last of the northern army has arrived. Perhaps we can set off and assign the southern regiments as our rear guard. If we daudle much longer more lives will be lost in the Imperium. I hope you’re listening generals!” she said loudly to the generals milling around her, who were starting to wander off or turn to their own advisors. They jumped at Luna’s sudden shout and whipped around, nodding quickly. Indigo sniggered and Sombra smiled.

“Listen! We are organizing the forces we have here and marching! Any regiments that have fallen behind will have to catch up to us or serve as our rear guard. Go! Assemble your soldiers! Certainly you must have a better hold on them than this!” she gestured to the increasingly rowdy throng stretching out far before them. The generals quickly nodded and moved off into the army, cutting a path through the soldiers like a hot knife through butter. A few moments later shouting and deep bellows resonated above shifting mass, and the soldiers very slowly started to move into place.

“This is going to take forever,” Luna mumbled to herself before spreading her wings and taking to the air. She stuck out like a beacon from the few bat ponies and pegasi flying around. From the ground, Indigo could see her horn glow before her voice rolled out like a wave across the army.

“SOLDIERS OF THE NIGHT GUARD! ASSEMBLE INTO YOUR REGIMENTS!” the soldiers quickly organized after that, and in a few minutes ten neat squares were arrayed on the ground. Closest to Indigo and Sombra were Gold Regiment, consisting of unicorns. Gold was the shining gem of the spell casters. The best unicorn wizards in the army would join Gold. Platinum Regiment was composed of earth ponies, and was primarily light infantry. The more cunning and quicker earth ponies enlisted in Platinum. Silver Regiment was pegasi and the most focused on combat of all the pegasi regiments.

Behind them were Iron, Steel, and Diamond. Iron regiment were the big guys. Made up of the biggest earth ponies, Iron accounted for the best of the Night Guard’s heavy infantry. Steel was where the speed demon pegasi went to enlist. Only the fastest and most agile were admitted, and Steel was often leading the charge in the air. Diamond was the more refined spell casters, those who focused on long or complicated spells.

Tapering off in the distance were Umbra, Somnus, Noctis, and Lunar. These were the oldest regiments in the Night Guard. Umbra was made up of ebon unicorns who specialized in astral magic as well as the art of dreams and mind manipulation. Theirs was often considered a dark art and they were often shunned by other regiments because of this. Somnus was pegasi, bat ponies specifically, as most pegasi in the night guard were. Somnus were the true masters of the sky. They specialized in infiltration and espionage, often going behind enemy lines days, or in their case nights, ahead of the rest of the army. Noctis, as the trend continues, was earth ponies. Or, rather, ebon terrans. This was the name given to earth ponies of the night. The stallions of Noctis were the great honorable warriors of the Lunar Regiments. They were the most skilled in combat and adhered to a strict code of honor. Lunar, as the name would suggest, was the princesses personal warriors. The very best of the very best from all three races could ascend through the ranks of the other regiments of the Night Guard and eventually join Lunar. Indigo and Sombra were both members of Lunar.

“It’s quite an impressive sight isn’t it?” Indigo mumbled sidelong to Sombra as Luna landed gracefully next to them.

“Especially considering we’re missing four regiments and the Solar army is three times this size. It’s a hard thing to grasp until it’s right in front of you,”

“That it is,” Indigo fell silent as Luna stood straight and cleared her throat. What Indigo was expecting was an elegant speech to inspire the army and instill bravery in the men, a great proclamation to last through the ages.

“MARCH!” the princesses booming voice rolled out. The soldiers were momentarily confused, but they were professionals. One by one the regiments began their march north west, heading for the one pass through the western mountains. Luna and her students stayed where they were until the first ranks of Lunar reached them. Colonel Fellhammer approached the princess and gave Sombra and Indigo a small nod. The two remained impassive as Fellhammer bowed to the princess. Fellhammer was an older stallion, with a graying blue coat and beard. It was nowhere as voluminous as Starswirl’s had been, but it was still very respectable. His stoic bearing and firm gaze betrayed a disciplined and seasoned warrior.

“Thank you for that, princess. The soldiers were becoming rather uneasy after so long sitting idle,” Luna smiled.

“Just performing my duty. Though I will say it was amusing to see their reaction,” Fellhammer chuckled and stood straight, ignoring the ranks parting around them.

“That it was,” he turned to Sombra and Indigo. “And you boys! How might you be doing?”

“Decent enough I suppose,” Sombra answered evasively. Fellhammer frowned and turned to Indigo. “What about you, boy? How go your studies? Oh! How’s that old rascal Starswirl doing?” Indigo frowned and hung his head. The smile quickly disappeared from Fellhammer’s face. “What’s wrong? Is it something I said?”

“No, colonel. It’s just...Starswirl died just before we set off from the castle. It seems his old age finally caught up with him,” the princess answered sorrowfully. Fellhammer seemed to deflate at the news and his gaze turned downcast.

“That’s...an awful shame. He was such a great unicorn. We will all greatly miss him. Well, princess, I believe I should get back to maintaining this damned massive machine of an army,” he adjusted his plumed officers helmet and threw a quick salute before melting back into the ranks, shaking his head sadly.

“Are you alright Indigo?” Luna asked with concern.

“Yes, I’m fine,” Indigo wiped at the tears forming in his eyes and cleared his throat. Sombra threw his arm around Indigo’s shoulders and gave him a sad smile.

“I think its best we march with the troops now. Come, Sombra. Indigo. Let me show you the tediousness of military life,” Luna gave a wry smile and set off at a brisk pace to the head of the column, leaving Sombra and Indigo to scramble after her.

Celestia above, Indigo’s hooves were killing him. They had been marching for hours, ever since night fall. By Indigo’s best estimate it was about four in the morning now. They had long since left Equestria’s western mountains behind them and were now pushing further into the heart of rugged griffin territory. The eastern expanses of the Imperium were vast tracks of rough wilderness, broken only by the occasional village or fort. The army had already passed through one village that was nothing but a burned out husk. Ash littered the ground there and everything was eerily quiet. They had searched for survivors but came up with nothing, not even any bodies. The sight had unnerved Indigo. If the rebels were working toward some goal of ‘freedom’ then why would they torch an entire town needlessly?

“How near are we to Avion?” Sombra asked Luna as he glanced at the landscape around them. An eerie fog was settling in and the jagged trees on the hills around them were menacing, especially in the light of the full moon.

“The city is not but ten miles ahead of us. We should reach it before daybreak if we keep up our current pace,” Sombra nodded and fell back into step to the left of Luna. The three were at the head of the Lunar column and therefore had some breathing room. It made Indigo uncomfortable how open they were, especially with how much the princess stood out. Were they to be attacked she would be a definite target.

Luna’s ears shot up and she whipped her head around quickly, scanning both sides of the road. Indigo jumped a little at the sudden motion.

“What is it?” Sombra asked worriedly.

“Get down!” Luna shouted as her horn flared up and a blue dome of crackling energy formed around the three. No sooner had she done this than several dozen spears came sailing out of the woods straight toward them. Most broke harmlessly on the shield while a few sailed into the ranks of Lunar. The soldiers reacted amazingly quickly, dodging the spears or throwing up shields of their own. Before the warriors could properly recuperate griffins came screaming out of the woods, converging on the princess. From his quick glances, Indigo could tell they were a haphazard force. Those that wore armor seemed to have mainly simple leather armor and leather helmets, if they were lucky enough to have that. Their swords and spears were weather beaten and it seemed to be mostly swords and spears. Only a few seemed to possess any other weapons. Several had nothing but knives.

The griffins hit the unprepared front rank like a barreling Hydra, and forced them back several paces. Luna and her students were now cut off from her guard. The shield still shimmered around them, which all three were thankful for. The griffins circled the shield, testing it with the tips of their weapons.

Sombra snarled and drew the sword from its sheath with a flash of magic. Indigo’s own blade slipped silently from its scabbard and floated poised at his side. The two crouched in a ready stance on either side of Luna. She herself gave a low hiss and two large spectral swords appeared in front of and behind her. The ornate swords were almost transparent blue and were entirely composed of ethereal energy. Wisps of energy trailed off the swords and dissipated into the air. Indigo grinned flashed his sword toward the griffins. Being forged with Alicorn magic, his sword was far superior to anything they possessed.

A thundering crack resonated and almost threw Indigo forward. Luna yelped and nearly fell as something exploded against the far side of the shield. In a matter of seconds the shimmering dome fell apart and the griffins rushed in, hollering their war cries. Four blades of Alicorn magic swung toward the tide of oncoming griffins. The Twins sailed through the weaker swords like they were nothing but air, surprising Indigo and Sombra as well as the griffins. The two quickly recovered and set their blades back into the griffin ranks, sending them flailing and squawking back.

Luna’s blades were even more devastating. Whenever they came in contact with another blade there was a small explosion that sent the griffins reeling. Unexpectedly, several more spears came arching toward the small group. None of them were prepared for it and the shields thrown up only blocked some of them. One spear sailed through a gap and straight into Luna’s side.

“LUNA!” Sombra screamed as Indigo flared his magic in a smaller shield.

“Is she okay?” Indigo grunted through the exertion of maintaining the shield as it was relentlessly pounded. Sombra had tears flowing down his face as he crouched next to Luna as she...stood. The spear had completely impaled her, stabbing her near the spine on her right side and sailing clean through to protrude from the bottom of her left sides. The princess didn’t look hurt, in fact she only looked mildly annoyed. A golden fluid flowed down the end of the spear and pooled next to her.

“That was unpleasant,” she stated nonchalantly.

“H-How did you…”

“Being an immortal Alicorn has it’s advantages,” Luna pulled the spear out with her magic and the wound closed before Sombra’s eyes.

The griffins quailed at the sight of the princess thought slain rising to her feet. The ramshackle force disintegrated out of fear and ran off back into the woods. Indigo gratefully dropped his shield. The second he did Sombra lashed out. He swung Tenebris toward the backs of the fleeing griffins. The squeal from the impaled griffin was quickly silenced as Sombra decapitated it, sending it’s warm blood spraying across the ground. Fast as lightning, he swung Tenebris and cut off the rear left leg of a griffin. The poor creature screamed and fell to the ground, completely helpless.

“SOMBRA, NO!” Indigo screamed as Sombra advanced on his helpless victim. Indigo threw himself in front of Sombra and grabbed Tenebris with his own magic as the sword descended toward the griffin.

“Sombra...stop,” Indigo struggled to push Sombra back as he was focused on the downed griffin with murderous intent.

“No. He. Must. DIE!” Sombra pushed harder both against Indigo and with his magic. Sweat beaded Indigo’s face as he too pushed back.

“Sombra, that is enough,” Luna said firmly. But her order fell on deaf ears.

Indigo looked back and locked eyes with the griffin. He expected to see fear, maybe even gratitude. What he saw was loathing. Indigo’s eyes widened as the griffins almost forgotten spear shot out and sank deep into his ribs. Indigo spluttered and fell, magic failing. Sombra sat in shock for a moment before he stared at the griffin with a look that truly made it terrified. Unbridled fury burned in his gaze. With a furious cry, Sombra directed his magic at the griffin. He channeled all the rage and bitterness he was feeling at that moment in a spell meant to inflict as much pain as possible to the recipient before killing them. Purple energy flared from Sombra’s eyes as his horn bubbled with more purple energy. A moment later a beam of roiling black magic leapt forth from his horn and enveloped the griffin. Sombra’s victim screamed until it’s muscles were torn from the bleached white bone and disintegrated. Soon nothing but a smoldering, blackened skeleton remained.

Sombra dropped to his knees beside Indigo and gently cradled his head in his arms as Indigo coughed up blood. More was pooling around him, drenching Sombra. Tears flowed down Sombra’s face as he gazed into Indigo’s eyes. Luna stepped up behind them and frowned, horn flaring. A moment later, Indigo fell into a deep sleep.