Chapters Celestia sat at her throne drumming her fingers absently against the armrest of her throne as the statesman drowned on about a business deal between north and south Equestria that apparently need her approval. She sighed loudly standing from her throne, rubbing her back he nervously stumbled and stopped his proposal. Letting her aetherial like head of hair wave in the wind from a nearby open window, Celestia looked out to the sparse buildings developed in that sector.
“I will approve of the shipping trade line from the northern provinces to the south with a few minor detours Mr. Big Picture.”
“What modifications did you have in mind my Princess?” The lime green coated man asked looking to his presentation and to the open window.
“I wanted Canterlot to become the center of commerce for Equestria. Currently there are far too few businesses that have a base of operations in Canterlot that is not high brow or 'exotic'. I want everypony to be free to build here and prosper. I shipping company would be an excellent for bringing in the lower brand of store, no offense Mr. Big Picture.”
“None taken. Do you have a suggested area to put the hub milady?”
“I do, there is a section of land that cannot be used for food and within the walls that nopony has snatched up.” She motioned for him to look out the window to see gray shale rock in large patches. “The land would take far too much work to mine or farm to worth it, but if your teams could use it. They are open to you.”
“We can start nearly immediately. Thank you Milady.” He hurriedly rushed from the room bowing deeply.
“Raven what other appointments do we have for today?” Celestia asked her secretary as she flopped back onto the throne. The raven haired woman adjusted her large glasses she quickly flipped through her notepad.
“Only one remains. A Min Fillia from the Scions of the Seventh dawn?” Raven looked at her notes again. “I am not familiar with this faction Princess, I do not know what to expect.”
“I am unfamiliar with the name as well. When are they to arrive?”
“An hour from now. Do you want an armed escort from the station?” She was waved off by Celestia. “I can head to the records for more information and send out the Guards as I go.”
“That may cause more trouble than is needed. We do not need to cause alarm.”
...
A blonde woman wearing a tight corset and a long flowing skirt. Around her lower half, a soft smile spread on her lips as the other members of her party joined her on the platform. a tall thin man with a strange pair of goggles resting on his head, his creme colored hooded robe covering him from head to toe. The second wore heavy leather and steel dyed black and red shrouding their entire form except for a long thin black tail, the helmet was black iron with a pair of curved red horns protruding forward in a downward slope.
Her knight watched the crowds as they grabbed their luggage the creme robed man smirked as he watched his companion watching the crowd, he let a sharp whistle causing them to turn to see a large two handed axe tossed lazily in their direction. The knight caught it gave it a slight flip as it landing into its sheath on her back with practiced ease. The move gave a few terrified stares from the locals surrounding them.
“Urianger I told you not to make a scene.” The blonde playfully scolded the creme robed me.
“I was just returning our friend their arm back.” He answered in a dignified tone, but had a small smirk on his lips, an echoing chuckle from the warrior joined him.
“I still don't think you require that we are here for peaceful discussion with one of the most generous leaders in this world. A weapon would only cause conflict.” Minfillia rolled her eyes as she hefted her bag only to slightly budge, the knight reached down and hefted the large bag onto their shoulder with a slight strain. “Watching you makes me want to do less paperwork and go out adventuring again.” Minfillia giggled as she led the way as her two companions shadowed her movements. “I believe there is a carriage that is supposed to be here for us.” A large red carriage with the sister's royal seal emblazoned on the door made the blonde smile. “Excuse me?”
A shaggy haired man with a light orange skin tone looked down from his seat on the ride.“What do you want?”
“Almost as rude as the Ul'dahnians.” Minfillia thought to herself before squashing it.”We need a ride to the palace are you the ride that was said to be waiting.”
“You Min Fillia?” A nod he made thumbing gesture. “I will get ya there in one piece.” The knight and Urianger made a quick glance at each other. Minfillia already hopped into the carriage as the knight loaded the baggage, Urianger moved close and leaned in.
“I'll ride with the lady, you have the chocobo spell correct?” A nod. “Smart thinking son of a...” He cursed biting his thumb slightly, he knew the knight was smirking at him under the helmet. “Betting that you will get the safer ride.” A faster silent nod made Urianger groan as he boarded the carriage.
“Olwen is taking her own ride isn't she.”
“Yes, Milady.”
“I have a feeling we should have done the same.” Minfillia commented getting a sigh from the other passenger.
“That is agreed by all.” Urianger said dryly as Minfillia gave him a smirk.
The knight known as Olwen drew a horn from her belt and let out a long sorrowful tune, a large red bird materialized beside her hopping up the saddle she motioned to the carriage driver.
A confused populace would have much to gossip about as a royal carriage took off like a shot down the narrow alleys and winding paths and an armored war bird quickly on it's heels. Shouts from the civilians were then followed by confusion as a giant bird leap over their heads following quickly behind the thrashing carriage. The scream of a melon stand shop owner with his stand being knocked over by the carriage, A flower stand nearly run down as the gilded carriage crashed through the streets. Finally slowing it's carnage it stopped before the palace gates with a screech. The driver walked up to the door and gave a smirk.
“I got ya here. Just call on Speed Shot for all your carriage needs.”
“I would rather walk.” Urianger commented dragging the luggage through the narrow door. A slap to the back made the thin man turn quickly he just saw his silent partner point down the road of destruction that the driver made. “By the twelve how is he still on the road.”
Minfillia ignored the pair as they pointed to carnage that the driver caused, she looked to the brightly colored towers the dark blue and white and gold flags topping the rainbow of rooftops. The pale walls gilded with golden trim and wavy accents. The blonde was in awe of the exaggeration of the city.
Minfillia stood before two guards talking to them before turning the pair. “Urianger, you are with me. Olwen you have to wait out here the Guards don't like the weapon.” Giving the taller man a knowing look. Olwen nodded and knelt silently beside one of the guards, her head moving with the crowds confused looks on their faces. The guard beside her tightened his grip on his spear slightly as he watched her, his eyes quickly switching between her heavy axe and the crowd.
A third guard wearing more elaborate gold armor motioned them to follow. The trio stopped before the large sun crested door. The guard turned and asked “How would you like to be introduced to her Highness?” They looked at each other and quickly replied.
The heavy doors opened to reveal Celestia sitting on her throne and a much smaller woman handing her some quickly put together notes. The guard stepped forward and cleared his throat.
“Minfillia acting leader of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, and Urianger Chief Scholar for the Scions of the Seventh Dawn.” The three bowed as Celestia stood, her white and gold robes flowing elegantly as she walked towards them. Standing nearly two heads taller than Minfillia she gave a soft smile.
“I am pleased you have made all this way for an audience with me. From what my information has given me you come from across the sea.”
“Yes, Queen..”
“Princess.” Celestia corrected. “I refuse the title of Queen so my sister and I can rule together.”
“My apologies. As I was saying we have traveled from the continent called Eorzea. It has been an odd trip. From what I know this is one of the few meetings of our two countries.”
Celestia nodded with a smile as Minfillia continued. “I am sure your time is important and have already made huge exceptions for us let us get to business?” Another silent nod. “My companions and I work in stopping what we call the 'Primal Threat'. We have received readings that the energies that signify a primal has arisen had come from this area. We wish to lend our aid and knowledge.”
“No such threat has reached my ears. Please elaborate, what are these primals?” Celestia moved almost floated back to her throne.
Urianger stepped forward drawing a small globe from his sleeve and powering it with a spark from his finger. The orb glowed and revealed eight large creatures, a demonic like creature bathed in fire, a bulbous man-like creature made of rock, a four winged female covered in green and white plumage, an elderly large bearded man sparking with electricity wearing black and violet robes, a woman with a crown of icicles and frozen weaponry floating around her, a massive sea serpent coiling around two large ships, a man clad in black armor and armored steed wielding a spear in one hand and a glowing sword in the other, lastly a massive black dragon his wings blotting out most of sky. “These are the Primals we have encountered. Ifrit Lord of the Inferno, Titan Lord of Crags, Garuda Lady of the Vortex, Ramuh Lord of Levin, Shiva the Saint of Frost, Leviathan Lord of the Whorl, Odin Elder Warrior of the Shroud, and Bahamut the Elder.”
“There is one more we have encountered but there is debate if he is a primal or not.” Minfillia said holding her chin. “These creatures drain energy from the planet itself but give none in return. If this would continue life may not be able to be supported on our world.”
Celestia leaned back in her throne a quick glance to her secretary who was shaking like a leaf, with a sigh she stood. “These are bold claims, I do not want to raise unwanted alarm. Is there a way to track these primals and deal with them quietly? My country is not a warring state, but we do have a standing military.”
“We have been tracking one as we landed, the goggles we wear show the spikes of aether energy the primals feed on. Defeating them quietly is another matter. Armies tend to be an effect we call tempering, when tempered the warriors will obey the primal and lash out for them, we have not been able to find a cleanse to it. We have one with us that has bested these foes...” Minfillia said turning away from the Princess slightly.
“Their methods are barbaric, but effective.” Celestia held up a hand in an almost knowing Minfillia's gesture. “Sometimes to defeat monsters one must become the monster.” Celestia turned to a stain glass window depicting the past. “What makes this warrior so special to challenge the primals that can brain wash their enemies.”
“She seems to be immune to their influence. We will not reveal how at this time.” Minfillia replied earning a smirk from Celestia.
…
Elsewhere, the one known as Olwen's ears twitched under steel helm. Her tail swayed more rapidly causing the guard she knelt beside to tense. The tail swiped at the guards ankles repeatedly, batting his ankle with a soft thump with each hit.
The Guard motioned to his partner who looked down and smirked. The partner shrugged to his friend and motioned to hold the tail with his foot, by softly lowering his foot at and angle and holding it where it would be held tightly but not harm the tail.
...
“My leader doth try to explain, but floundered was that our warrior is as subtle as an airship crash. She tends to be brash and impulsive.” Urianger explained as he palmed the orb and returned it to his sleeve. “But she is one of the few people I would not see angry unless it was needed.”
“I see...” Celestia trailed off in though.
“We only seek a guide of sorts and some form of paperwork from the crown to let us safe passage in your lands. We are a small group and serve no purpose to be here other than to eliminate the threat of the primals. As soon as we have achieved this goal we will leave.” Minfillia spoke making the Sun Monarch hold a hand her chin in thought.
“I believe I know the right...” Celestia began but was interrupted as a guard burst through the large doors in a state of panic. Celestia stood quickly and almost floated to his side as he knelt. “Guard what is the cause of alarm?”
“There is a beast near the palace gates tossing guards left and right. It wields an Axe and has curved horns.” The Guard spoke quickly with a salute. Two groans were heard from behind Celestia as the two guests held their heads in a hand.
“I assume that is your warrior.” Celestia asked her guests who sighed and nodded.
“Let us stop her before she makes everything worse.” Minfillia said stomping towards the door.
…
The two dignitaries and the Sun Monarch exited the castle to look down at the events just beyond the gate, a small regiment of Celestia's guards stood, and hovered on aetherial wings in a circle around the single opponent that slowly turned watching its foes weapon held at the ready.
“Wait!” Minfillia started but was cut off by soft hum from the Princess.
“Let us see if my guards could handle the primals, if your warrior has bested them. I must know if you are not around we could beat them.”
“What if she kills some of them?”
“I have already placed a ward of protection.” Celestia said pointing to soft glow that seemed to appear surround the standoff. “All that will be hurt will be pride and maybe some bruising.” Celestia said looking to the blonde woman who sucked in a lung full of air and released it in a huff.
“Fine. As long as nobody gets hurt.”
Five guards streaked in from the ground from five points in the crowd, circling their prey spears at ready, diving in their spears were rounded up by the hook of the axe and drove into the mud. The guards staggered slightly as their momentum suddenly halted one staggered inwards as his hands slid on his grip, The next second he felt his feet leave the ground as a dark leathered hand grabbed his chest plate from behind lobbing him at the guard across from him. The other three recovered enough to watch as two of their side crashed into the wall of guards surrounding them. One turned to the attacker only to see the blunt back of the axe come swinging towards him, He saw stars as he crashed into the other two guards sprawling them out on the mud.
A bellow of “Mages! Fire!” Made Olwen turn towards the voice and smirk as four guards in robes with plates on vital spots glowed and fired a wave of eight fireballs. The axe glowed slightly as Olwen brought it over her head bringing it down with a powerful gust of wind. The wind rushed towards them and collided with the projectiles, unknown by the mages the rocks the were also brought up with the swing. The pebbles passed through the flames as the wind caused them to waver from their courses. Red hot rocks pelted the mages as the guards behind the target dove for cover from the fiery assault.
As the mages tumbled to stop the flames and as the guards began to lick their wounds one Guard stepped forward. His armor was more ornate than the other and held a large plume of feathers, he drew a longsword from his belt and shield in the shape of a diamond and laughed. “You have beat the riff raff with such a barbaric weapon but a real warrior fights for his friends and with honor. All I saw was an angry little kitty lashing out.” Thrusting the sword point at Olwen he laughed at her as she leaned on her weapon.”I am Captain Diamond Shine, You will remember who beat you you uncouth beast.”
A lighthearted chuckle exited the horned helm as Olwen lifted the heavy weapon to her chest a flash of light and stood in her place was a knight wielding a long flat sword that pulsed a light blue glow, on her arm was a large shield that matched the blade. The black and red armor was replaced by brilliant white and cobalt plate mail, the helmet that shrouded her face changed to a circlet of silver and gems revealing her face. The female ashen skin and black hair trimmed into a messy bob cut, her left eye was squinting as two scars crossed it, the largest feature was a splash of red paint that crossed over her right eye to below her left in a messy slash. A playful smirk was on her lips as she lowered the blade to the ready.
She bolted quickly towards the Captain, her stab missing by inches as he sidestepped. Her shield did not miss as it clanged loudly against his own shoving him back a few inches of breathing room. Olwen's smile grew as she gave a flip of her blade and dove in again, Diamond Shine ready as she slashed in surprisingly trained strikes.
…
Celestia watched as the feline warrior changed into the paladin before her in an instant and was rather perplexed by it. Minfillia looked at the Monarch's expression and began to explain. “That is what from our country we call the Armory system. It is a magical spell that encases the person with an Aura. That Aura can be linked equipment, swords, staves, fishing equipment, and even books. The Aura remembers what the person had put on last and can quickly change to it in the flash of light. It requires a medium of sorts, for Olwen it is her Omni-weapon.”
“Omni-weapon?”
“It is a prototype from a friend of hers she helped find himself along their journey she tells me.” Minfillia said with a shrug. “She can transform it into any weapon she feels comfortable with. If she does not feel comfortable with it she will not add it to her Omni-weapon. I believe she has eight in there currently.”
“Nine I thought, and was learning a few more. She is too worried about those weapons that she will hurt herself or those that she cares about to use.” Urianger interrupted.
“She mastered the Ninth already? Some days she surprises even me.” Minfillia said rather shocked turning back to the fight.
“So anypony could use this technology?” Celestia asked causing Minfillia to shrug, Urianger stepped forward.
“In theory yes, but in practice one to two changes is the most people from home have.” Urianger said his tone growing grimmer. “It is a strain on a lot of people to have multiple sets and they run themselves into exhaustion. Olwen is an odd case, but not the only one.”
…
Diamond Shine stepped back after being parried by his opponent they appeared to be evenly matched, but he knew that she was getting weaker her strikes were softening up. His time to strike would be soon, Olwen lowered her sword slightly that was the time, like a bolt of lightning Diamond thrust to disarm his opponent but was stunned as the sword snapped back disarming himself, he staggered but a flash of light and he felt his shield ripped from his grasp by the massive axe. Another flash of light stood a yellow garbed fighter with punching weapons pummeling his chest and an uppercut to lift him to the air. A flash and her felt a pair long thin blades sneak around his armor lifting him higher, a swift boot to his back drove him into the ground as he turned to see his opponent she was clad in green robes and a single horn on her head and held a book. Fiery hands wrapped around him pinning him to the ground as another flash brought his gaze up to see a dragon-like knight diving quickly large barbed lance coming first. Diamond Shine didn't know what to do other than close his eyes, and he did just that.
Olwen impacted the ground at an unnatural speed raising up a burst of earth as she landed. Bystanders and Guards a like screamed in terror as the only one standing in the small crater was a draconian like shape until it withdrew the lance from the ground and stood at ready. Civilians were halted by the surprisingly soft voice of their leader as stepped through the gates.
“Be calm my ponies. This warrior is actually not a threat to us. Diamond Shine are you alright?” Celestia spoke as Minfillia and Urianger ran past her and told their friend to relax but Olwen refused to budge.
“My pride and my armor is the only casualties Milady.” Diamond Shine answered sitting up from the crater slightly holding his sides. Many civilians cheered as he stood, two of his guards rushed to him to lift him to his feet. “Get the others first. I can stand it is just a little uneven here.” He coughed as his knees nearly buckled. “You are no barbarian, you fought bravely and like nopony I have ever had to clash blades with....Why are you not moving?”
“Her body is trying to process the overcharge of aetherial energy she put herself through by the rapid changes.” Urianger said as he folded up a cloth and lay it on the ground in front of Olwen. “She should be collapsing right about...” Olwen's body suddenly went limp like a puppet getting their strings cut, except for falling forwards she dropped to her knees and fell backwards with a clang of her armor. “Thirty percent on catching her... not good percentage.” He mumbled as he reached down to move the cloth.
“Enough with that help her up.” Minfillia said flipping the Visor of the draconian armor up to reveal Olwen's face. “Out like a light but grinning like a fool. I think she likes this place.”
“She would.” Urianger said with a sigh. He glanced over her his shoulder and noticed the Sun monarch talking with a couple guards, she pointed to some of the guards to get stretchers. “She should be letting the guards handle themselves.”
“I have some respect for a leader that will stand beside her peoples in time of panic.” Minfillia said her voice growing a little darker.
“I meant no disrespect, it is just how will the guards be able to protect her if she is always protecting them?” Urianger said rather coldly as he hefted Olwen into a sitting position and drawing a small glass vial from his sleeve. Popping the cork he held it under the feline woman's nose, her face scrunched up before her eyes snapped open. “She returns from the void.”
Olwen tried to move but could only twitch her tail and scrunch her face, a soft hand on her cheek made her eyes turn to Minfillia. A look of concern was plastered on the blonde woman's face as Olwen looked at her confused.
“One of these days you are not going to be able to wake up from doing that.” Minfillia frowned at Olwen who tried to smile but only got a wince in pain. “Nobody was harmed and your body needs time to expel the aether you built up. Same thing as last time when you did this. We will get you somewhere to rest for a couple hours.”
Celestia at this point had walked over to the trio, she let out a slight cough earning three pairs of eyes to turn towards her. “She will be able to rest in one of the private chambers in the palace. I have to apologize to you all this all started because one of my guards stepped on her tail as his partner explained. He will be punished accordingly. Although I believe your warrior has already damaged his pride a bit when she hit him.”
“Where and how hard?” Minfillia asked in almost a wince, getting a soft chuckle from Celestia.
“She punched him into the gate knocking him out.” Celestia said looking over the area, her secretary came running up waving a couple slips of paper at the monarch. “We will have to talk later, one of the guards will show you to some rooms so you can rest.”
Minfillia and Urianger nodded as Olwen watched the Sun Monarch walk away. A pair of guards with a stretcher arrived shortly after loading Olwen and guiding the two diplomats to their room. Olwen did not blink as they passed by a few areas where she could see Celestia. Her eyes narrowed slightly as they passed, Urianger noticed his friend's odd look but said nothing as he followed the stretcher he decided to ask her later.
The guards lead them to a large modestly decorated room, light red curtains hung around the room, two large beds were the main focus of the room. Two small dessers stood on each side of the room, and a a single vanity stood nearby another arched doorway. The two guards carried their passenger to one bed and laid her down, with Minfillia by her friend's side nearly immedietly.
“Your room Sir will be right across the hall, if you will follow me.” One guard said turning to Urianger, the tall man nodded as he followed leaving one guard and his friends.
“If you need anything please let a guard or servant know and we will try to do our best.” The remaining guard bowed moving towards the door.
“I have a few questions.” Minfillia said turning to the guard. “When will we know when the Princess will see us again? And is there a library that I can visit while we wait? I am curious about your culture.”
“I am sure that a guard will come to notify you of the meeting. The library is just this way if you follow me.” He smiled as he made his way to the door.
“You will be alright alone for a bit?” Minfillia asked getting a weak nod from Olwen. “I will be back in a bit. Don't go anywhere and hurt yourself more.” The blonde giggled as she followed the guard.
Olwen lay on her back staring at the rather ornate arched ceiling. Random thoughts coursing through her head, the reasons for having gold painted decorations to how to improve her abilities. A light knocking on the door made her groan as thoughts were broken. She struggled to sit up but was interrupted as the one who knocked entered, Urianger stood at the doorway a knowing smirk on his lips. Olwen groaned as her body gave out flopping back onto the bed.
“I see you are still stubborn enough to try to stand when you have been told not to.” Urianger said moving to the second bed and sitting on the edge. “You need to rest, your body will expel the excess aether in time.” Urianger looked to his friend who was giving him a stern look. “You have something to say. I know you are a person of few words.”
“Everything is too perfect.” Olwen almost coughed as she spoke in a harsh growl. Urianger raised an eyebrow as his friend turned back to the ceiling. “This Princess is treated like a god and thought untouchable. Yet she does not use her power. Why?”
“You feel this is odd?” Urianger asked leaning forward, a hand on his chin. “You must realize that where we come from has had conflict for far too long. These people have not had our battles, we do not know their struggles. They may have had battles that rival or even surpass our own.”
“I know that. I am more than just a warrior.” Olwen sighed as she twitched her fingers to test herself. “It is just why hasn't she been corrupted like our leaders. Even through similar conflicts why were ours so weak, and this ones so 'strong'. Something just feels wrong because of it.”
“Your outlook is biased.” Urianger smirked but sighed. “I do see your view though. This place feels like another world. I also see that if their leader is uncorrupted then that must mean something good doesn't it?” Urianger stood and brushed his robes straight and turned towards the door. “I am going to rest until they call us. You should do the same.”
Olwen sighed as resumed looking at the ceiling. “Or it means that she hides her corruption really well.” She mumbled as her eye lids began to feel very heavy.
Author's Note
Thank you for reading. I appreciate any comments so I can improve. I do not have an editor or anyone to proof read this for me for any glaring mistakes. This surely felt like it took forever to write.
I am sorry that Celestia seemed sort of cold towards her guards during the fight, she needed to test to see if these basically strangers were telling the truth that one person could take on a beast that an army could not hope to defeat. It was a test of strength, and nothing more.
I will be introducing the Mane 6 in the next chapter I have most of it already planned out.
Celestia sighed as she looked over a few papers not really retaining what was on the page, rereading the same section she rubbed the bridge of her nose. She lay the sheets on the arm of throne and noticed her secretary walking up quickly her hooves echoing even on the carpeted floor. Ignoring the paperwork for now the Sun Monarch leaned forward.
“How are the men Raven? I hope that the incident earlier didn't hurt them too badly.” Celestia asked taking a few more sheets from the small woman.
“Captain Diamond Shine was correct with his assessment most of them had minor scratches and burns their pride was the most damaged. Lady Minfillia is currently in the library and Urianger has joined her after having a conversation with myself, he says Olwen was beginning to go to sleep when he left her.” Raven smiled and her cheeks a slight red as she spoke of the tall man.“Your letter to Princess Twilight Sparkle has been sent, do you expect her today or in the morning?” She said quickly regaining her composer that did not go unnoticed by her boss. “Should I send the guard to wake your sister? It is nearly time for her breakfast and your supper.”
“I am sure Luna would like to meet the new arrivals if she is not already aware of them. I expect Twilight and her friends to arrive either later tonight if they can catch the train, I hope we hear from them if them miss it.” Celestia smiled as she stood walking towards the dining room. “Can you contact the Astrologists and see if they have seen any change in the energies around Equestria. I want to see if they have seen anything that we should be worried about.” Celestia said her smile turning into a frown. “Also to see if these Scions are telling the truth.” Celestia thought as a pair of guards opened the large doors to the dinning room. “Also tell our guests that food will be served soon if they wish to join me.”
Raven nodded quickly rushing out the doors, Celestia watched as her secretary took a small spill, but quickly bounced to her hooves and rushed along.
...
Celestia sat down at the head of the table a few reports from the Crystal Empire having odd weather patterns that confused their weather teams. Another report of an excess of smoke billowing out of a mountain to the west of Canterlot, an inactive volcano that was due for an eruption if she remembered right. Many other odd weather quirks were on the reports that she asked Raven to fetch for her to try and figure out if her guests were correct that a monster had been able to get into her lands without her knowing it. She did not notice as a servant stood beside until she coughed to get her attention.
“Excuse me Princess, do you wish to be served now?” A small light pink woman spoke said quickly.
“Yes please.” Celestia said quickly organizing the papers as the servant waved to another bringing another pushing a cart. As the servant began to pour a cup of tea Urianger stepped through the doors with a bow.
“I apologize for my tardiness. Minfillia has returned to her room to see if Olwen is awake and will be down shortly.” Urianger said taking a seat a few chairs down from Celestia.
“You have no need to be sorry. You are a guest, I figured you may want food after your long trip.” Celestia said taking s sip from her cup. “I wanted to ask a few things about your country. We have had very few meetings to my knowledge.”
“Tis true. The land we come from has three large cities that have a small coalition that comes in handy from one of the bigger threats we face.” Urianger answered taking a cup of tea himself.
“The primals?” Celestia asked getting a shake of the man's head.
“An empire that believes themselves superior due to technological advances.” Urianger looked to a large window. “They are currently fighting among themselves as a their previous emperor had passed away and left no heir. An upstart General has taken the crown and we worry that he may advance, but they have been dealt a heavy blow as one of their most well known figureheads was killed and their super weapon that they believed would unstoppable was destroyed.”
“Interesting. I was not aware that a war was waging just across the ocean to us. Does your Coalition require any assistance? I can send what we can to aid in the plight of your people.” Celestia said lowering her cup and accepting a salad a servant had placed in front of her.
“I am not the best one to deal with that sort of deal Princess.” Urianger chuckled as he took a sip of tea. “The Scions are a neutral faction that will assist any of the nations of Eorzea, but we cannot deny or accept anything without their consent.”
“Political red tape how I hate it so.” Celestia said coldly as she stabbed her salad. “A necessary evil, but it does not mean that I like it.” She smiled as she took a bite.
Minfillia entered looking around at the people in the room. A slight panicked look in her eyes made Urianger stand. Regaining her composer Minfillia cleared her throat. “Pardon my interruption but Olwen is gone from her bed and none of the guards have seen her.”
“I can send some guards looking for her.” Celestia said looking to Urianger sitting down shaking his head with a knowing smile. “I have a feeling you know where she may be.”
Urianger straightened as he was addressed. “Was it so obvious? She will be in an open area preferably with nature. A park or garden would be where you will likely find her, if she wants to be found.” He said returning to his meal.
“How would you know this?” Minfillia asked rather put out by her companion's insider knowledge.
“I have dealt with Olwen's oddities before.” Urianger said sipping his tea. “She tends to go to nature to think.”
“An action I wish I had a chance to do myself in recent times.” Celestia chuckled as she returned to her dish. “No offense, but your ally seems like she would rather be out in the world rather than dealing with politics. Why would you bring her?”
“She may appear as a troublesome child with too much power, I assure you that she is dependable when needed.” Minfillia said straightening her back.
“That is something we will always need.” Celestia said softly as she took another bite.
…
Olwen sat on a thick tree branch, her attire had changed to a set of blue plates over a thin black chain mail set, the normal face mask had been removed. She overlooked a large courtyard with multiple statues and a hedge maze. She sighed as the quiet of the area took hold of her, the quiet was shattered by a whistle of a train a few kilometers away. Her eyes closed as she began to meditate in the tree. The calm air around the garden eased the warrior as she looked deeply into herself.
She lost track herself as she sat in the tree only when a fluttering of wings snapped her basic instincts into gear as her small ears began to turn searching for the noise. Noticing a young woman kneeling in front of some of the local fauna, pink hair and a yellowish complexion, Olwen was about to reveal herself when the soft voice of the woman stopped her.
“You are all so skittish since the last time I visited. Is there someone or something that is scaring you?” Her voice trembled slightly as she ended the sentence. The animals squeaked and chattered as if replying to the woman, Olwen watched curiously. “A predator? Here? How could a predator be here, but we are in a safe place.”
Olwen could almost make out a squirrel pointing to the tree that she currently sat in, the thought seemed ridiculous to the warrior. The thought that a woodland animal was smart enough to point out her position was a silly thought. She wasn't trying to be stealthy, but the action from the animal felt almost like it was an intelligent creature. Lost in her thoughts she never noticed the woman floating beside peeking shyly through the dense leaves, a snap of one of the branches made Olwen's ears twitch and turn to a pair of cyan eyes looking at her. A panicked squeak and the voyeur disappeared into the leaves, Olwen sighed as she noticed the yellow woman retreat into the castle.
“I have a feeling this will come to bite me.” Olwen groaned as she unfolded her legs and hopped off the branch. Landing softly and walking towards the castle a large guard stepped forward. The guard towered over the cat, his armor looked like two sets patched together for his large frame.
“Olwen Stormcaller I presume.” He asked his voice like gravel. “I have come looking for you, the Princess wishes for your presence in the dinning hall.” He said pointing down the hallway. “I can lead the way if you don't mind. I am curious about your weapons.” He smiled as he turned back to Olwen.
“I wouldn't mind the company. Although I don't know much of the mechanics of how the weapon changes, I know more about how the pointy end goes into the enemy.” Olwen chuckled as she matched his pace. “May I ask your name?”
“I am Stalwart Shield. I have a hobby of collecting exotic weapons, I saw you in the courtyard earlier and was amazed.” Stalwart laughed his deep laugh echoing in the hallway. “Seeing someone that can use so many weapons when everypony here only focus on usually two styles of fighting. It was exciting.”
Olwen took a step to the side as the large man almost squealed like a child. “I appreciate the enthusiasm, It has taken me a long time to learn how to use these weapons.” Olwen smiled at her blade as she held it in front of her. “My teachers would be proud to see me today. If it wasn't for them I wouldn't have been able to do anything against the guards from earlier.” She turned to Stalwart who grinned broadly.
“I am surprised you are so humble. I am sure if I was able to take out a Captain my head would be so huge.”
“I think your head is large enough, if it was bigger you wouldn't be able to fit in the doors.” Olwen laughed with Stalwart laughing again a few seconds later.
“I already have that problem.” Stalwart Shield chuckled as he stopped at a pair of large doors. “This is your stop. If you have time later would you like to go out for a drink and continue this talk, I believe Captain Diamond Shine wishes to talk to you as well.”
“I will think about it. Thank you for the company.” Olwen smiled as she pushed open the door she looked at the group of people surrounding the long table.
Minfillia and Urianger sat on right side of the table a dessert in front of them half eaten in Minfillia's case. Princess Celestia sat at the head with a similar dessert in front of her, to her left was a shorter woman but was clothed similarly like Celestia but in dark blues. On the left side of the table was six women of various builds that Olwen assumed was a council of some sort.
A heavily built one with a stetson and blonde hair and a healthy glow about her, she looked like she worked hard and represented the common people. The one beside her made Olwen's ears twitch slightly an elegantly dressed woman with long curls, the aura of superiority that Olwen had seen before, but something wasn't exactly right, high socialite was laughing and smiling at the blonde as if old friends. A woman dressed in violets and looked like a textbook case of a powerful magic user, her thin frame and bookish looks made her a candidate to the magical gifted people. A prismatic haired woman with a set of cobalt armor and athletic frame had a look of distrust to the other side of the table, but she glanced to her side of the table and gave the impression that would dive in front of a blade for them, Olwen couldn't think what she could be representing. A bouncing pink garbed woman was stuffing a piece of cake into mouth, she swirled the dessert in her cheeks before swallowing in a large gulp a smile and big thumbs up confused the warrior. The final woman was the yellow clad woman she saw in the garden, now getting a good look at her Olwen was impressed from the woman, her long pink hair and simply dressed compared to the others held an aura of calmness in the commotion.
“Glad you could join us Miss Stormcaller.” The Princess smiled as Olwen moved towards the table. Out of the corner of her eye Olwen noticed the yellow woman shrink down in her chair slightly and the prismatic one noticed growing slightly agitated. “We will get to introductions, in a second. How are you feeling since the incident earlier?”
“My tail is fine and my body is sore but will heal and the any job I will be assigned will be completed.” Olwen answered to point like a trained soldier. This surprised the left side of the table as Olwen sat her hands folded in front of her.
“That is good. You missed supper so would you like something to eat, you must be a little famished from your trip?” Celestia motioned to a servant, Olwen was about to protest but the servant was gone too quickly. “Now then to the introductions. This is my sister Luna co-ruler of Equestria.” Luna nodded as Celestia continued. “These ladies are my former student turned princess and her friends. I wasn't really expecting them to be able to make it in such short notice. Princess Twilight Sparkle.” The violet one nodded. “Applejack Apple.” The blonde gave a smile a lazy wave. “Rarity Belle.” The socialite gave a slight bow. “Rainbow Dash.” The prismatic one gave a cocky smirk and a thumbs up. “Pinkie Pie.” The one clad in pink bounced and waved franticly grinning from ear to ear. “And finally Fluttershy.” The yellow one gave a tiny wave. “They are going to be important to this meeting because they will be your guide to our lands.”
“I don't want to sound rude Princess. How well trained are these women?” Urianger asked calmly as a servant filled the cups on the table. He smiled and gave him a nod of approval. “We may be walking into a very dangerous situation. I would not want to put them into harm sway if it could be avoided.”
“I agree. What we are going to face is a beast that could kill them or worse.” Minfillia protested looking to the solar princesses.
“What could be worse than death?” Rainbow asked as she leaned back in her chair.
“How about becoming a mind controlled slave to a monster and watching yourself murder maim and or kill everyone around you, and you are powerless to stop it.” Olwen said calmly as she took her cup of tea from a now spooked servant. “I watched a friend have to put down one of her sisters because she was afflicted by a condition we call tempering.”
The six women looked at each other shocked as the grim words sunk in. Princess Twilight Sparkle stood up and leaned forward on the table. “Why didn't you try to save her? You have a cure for that do you not? You wouldn't face these creatures if you didn't come prepared.”
The right side of the table sighed and shook their heads. “We have not found a cure for tempering yet.” Urianger answered getting a few murmurs from the six.
“I only face them because I appear to be immune to the tempering. I am the only one fighting this beast. We worry about your safety because we do not have enough data how your people will react.” Olwen said setting her cup down. “I personally have seen very strong mages walk into the lair and then be tempered, I have seen mages of similar power get 300 meters away from the things and go mad and begin blowing up their allies.”
“The elements should protect us from them kind of things, shouldn't they Twilight?” Applejack asked leaning into the table.
“I would think they would, but they didn't protect us from Discord.” Twilight answered tapping her chin in thought.
“But we weren't wearing them then.” Pinkie spoke up in a sing song voice.
“Yea, Discord had taken them and brainwashed us.” Rainbow said a smirk on her face.
“Pardon my interruption 'elements'? What are these elements?” Urianger asked confused, Twilight was about to answer but a raised hand from Celestia stopped her.
“The Elements of Harmony, A set of magical necklaces that are powered by these women before you. They are both a powerful weapon able to neutralize chaotic foes and a potent deterrent to such foes.” Celestia answered. “They can purify a corrupted foe or imprison them in stone. They are a weapon that could solve this tempering problem, but I am not sure they could prevent it from happening.”
“So they are more of a reactionary weapon. I foresee that if one of you got corrupted you would have problems, would you you be able to summon this if one of you were gone?” Urianger analyzed the new information.
“It doesn't matter.” Olwen said getting glares from her two companions. “They are getting me there. They are not going to be there for fighting.” Olwen looked to others at the table. The six looked rather pout out by this as did Minfillia and Urianger, the two princesses looked at her rather curiously. “Unless you had another plan without telling us. Maybe you were planning on using these elements of harmony to turn the thing to stone or make it 'pure'.”
Celestia shifted in her chair as the comment hit home. Olwen looked at the Princesses and was surprised she guessed it. Her shock was plastered on her face as she looked to the princesses.
“We are a peaceful society. We would prefer to pacify the threat than directly fight it.” Luna spoke up for the first time. Minfillia and Urianger nodded in agreement, Olwen sighed and leaned back in her chair. “I know that this is not your way of dealing with these creatures, It is ours.”
“Fine, I will agree with this under two conditions.” Olwen said crossing her arms across her chest. The six and the princesses looked to each other and mumbled to each other.
“What are your terms?” Twilight asked turning to Olwen.
“First term, if you are coming on this trip I will train you. You will be trained in combat, you will be able to protect yourself if I am not able to get to you and the elements are deemed useless.” Olwen said looking to the six who looked a little nervous but they agreed. “Second term, if the elements are deemed useless we will take care of the primal my way.”
The six nodded as Olwen straightened up in the chair. “We agree to your terms and hope that you will be patient with us during training.” Twilight said getting a slow nod from Olwen as she stood. “When do we start?”
“What the average time on the burst of aetherical energies and the summonings?” Olwen asked turning to Urianger. The tall man sighed scratching the back of his head.
“It depends on where the primal is being summoned and if they can gather enough crystals to use as a beacon for it. Ifrit was a few weeks, but Titans was mere days due to location. We need to research the crystal supplies here.” Urianger answered turning to the princesses.
“We can help with that, we can get the paperwork from the shipping companies.” Celestia said with a nod.
"We should start training soon, we still need to find where the signal is coming from and that will take time as well." Olwen siad as she she stood tucking in her chair.
Minfillia gave her a glare. “Where are you going?”
“I am going out for a drink with a couple of the guards.” Olwen said turning to the six. “You are welcome to come. A Stalwart Shield asked me and mentioned the captain I tossed around would be there. I want to talk to him, say I'm sorry and all that.”
“Is it going to be a party?” Pinkie smiled getting a shrug from the cat woman.
“I doubt that them guards would be holdin' the same kinds of parties your used to Pinkie.” Applejack stood and walked around the table ruffling the curly haired mane of Pinkie as she passed. “My bet is it would be a bar downtown.”
“That would be my guess as well, unless they wanted to fight again?” Olwen smirked getting a knowing look from the apple farmer. “Which I would like to avoid, but boys will be boys.” Olwen laughed as she and Applejack walked through the doors a rainbow blur quickly on their heels.
The awkward silence as the door clicked shut could be cut with a knife. A polite cough made the room turn to the elegant woman stirring her tea. “Brutes will be brutes more like it.” A vibrant pink rose to her cheeks as the she froze the combined looks of confusion and surprise on the remaining parties in the room. “Oh dear did I just say that out loud.”
…
Applejack slammed her mug down sending a shock wave through the table as a small group cheered as a disheveled stallion slammed his mug down shortly after, earning the remaining hoots and hollers. The claps and slaps on the back as the spectators cheered on the competitors, another round was placed in front of them and the bar grew quiet. The two gave each other a smirk and grabbed the mugs the entire room burst into cheers again.
Olwen leaned against the bar watching from afar as Applejack slammed the mug down again and the stallion toppled to the side getting even more cheers from the crowd. She smiled as she turned back to the bar her own drink largely ignored, a stallion approached his light blue hair cut in a military style a small smile on his lips.
“Lady Stormcaller. Glad you could make it.” He gave her a curt nod and holding out a hand to shake. Hesitating slightly before taking it. “It is better to see you outside of combat.”
“I assume you were one of the guys that surrounded me earlier.” Olwen asked sipping her drink. “I have been apologizing all night, and getting the same from some of these guys.”
“It is alright. You were in the right after we learned what happened. I am Diamond Shine the last one you fought.” Diamond Shine smiled taking a seat beside the cat woman.
“I thought you were taken to the infirmary. I did a number on your armor.” Olwen said her ears perking up by the name.
“It was a shame to break such beautiful armor, but it served its purpose and protected me. The only thing damaged is my pride and maybe my reputation as a top swordspony.” He gave dignified chuckle as he drew a handkerchief from his shirt pocket and dabbed his eye.
“You didn't strike me much of a dandy in a fight.” Olwen remarked getting a chuckle again from the captain.
“I am hardly a dandy, but I tend to have a flair for the dramatic.” Diamond answered quickly getting an eye roll from his company. He watched as Olwen glanced back to the women that she came with her tail swishing back and forth as she noticed Applejack and Rainbow Dash trying to goad another soldier into another contest. “Something the matter?” Diamond asked snapping Olwen back to the world of the living.
“No, nothing too important. I guess I am just over thinking some things.” She said turning to Diamond who was eyeing her up like a trained soldier. “You train people in multiple styles of combat do you not?”
“Ah business, we guards try to learn multiple forms of combat. Hand to hand, swordplay, polearms, and in rare cases bows.” Diamond answered his look analyzing the woman before him. “Why do you ask?”
“How would you train those two? You know the limitations and the positives of your races better than I do.” Olwen asked pointing towards Applejack and Rainbow. “I get that Applejack is physically a powerhouse just by looking at her, just what would she be able to use and hold up to that might. Rainbow seems like she would be perfect behind a bow, she seems too impulsive for the concentration it takes to take that shot.”
Diamond laughed as he finished his drink. “Those two would be fine in hand to hand, Applejack feels to me like a sword or axe would just get in the way, she has power to spare but what she lacks is control. Rainbow's speed would be her greatest asset, a short sword in her hands would be effective, but the cockiness would be her downfall."
Olwen groaned as she turned back to the bar. “I was afraid of that. That was what I was thinking as well. I have to find a fighting style for them so they feel comfortable, but at the same time do not get too frustrated and hurt themselves.”
“A second opinion I see.” Diamond said scratching his chin. “Those two will be a handful, just remember a teacher can both be friend and enemy.”
“It isn't about me. It is about them.” Olwen replied earning another chuckle.
“You are already a teacher then.” Diamond Shine stood and moved towards the exit giving a salute as he reached the door. Olwen returned the salute along with a few other soldiers. “You better be ready for drills early in the morning grunts.” Diamond shouted over the bar. “We can't be shown up by anypony ever again, we will be the best we can be and ever was.” A cacophony of shouts of encouragement rose up from the patrons and soldiers. He left with a smile as the bar seemed to rise up in a drunken song.
Olwen ignored the song as she thought over what the captain had said.
Applejack groaned has she held a hand to her eyes, her mouth felt like a desert and her head pounded as if somepony had bucked her in the head. Rolling to her side she noticed a puff of rainbow hair in the bed next to her, the blankets rising and falling steadily. A pulse of pain in her head caused the apple farmer to groan again as she flipped the covers off herself. A repetitive thumping coming from outside of the door made Applejack groan once again before the door burst open with a loud slam. The pink terror on hangovers stood at the door a small brass trumpet in her hand and a manic grin on her lips.
“Pinkie if you use that there thing I swear you will be eating through it.” Applejack threatened as Pinkie had stopped her chest puffed up and the musical instrument a few centimeters from her lips. It inched closer a look of mischief in her eyes. It was stopped as a pillow smacked her in the face a muffled blat from the trumpet as Pinkie staggered back.
With a cough and a sputter Pinkie stood up a scowl and a few feathers on her face. “Okay meanie McMeanerson, I won't use the trumpet. Twilight wanted to see you you two were awake, I ran up here first.” Pinkie said shaking her head like a dog her hair poofing out and releasing feathers in all directions. “I think she wants us all down in the courtyard. Byeee.” And with that Pinkie was gone in an instant leaving a dazed Applejack and a silent Rainbow.
“You here that?”
“Yes, thanks for stopping the trumpet. I don't think I could have flown to her quick enough with my head pounding like this.” Rainbow groaned sitting up. “How did you know I was awake?”
“You snore like a woodpecker with a chainsaw.” Applejack said getting up and wobbling slightly as she got her footing.
“I would be offended, but I honestly don't care right now.” Rainbow groaned as she threw the covers off.
…
Olwen stood in front of the six mares her hands crossed behind her back the heavy white and cobalt plate armor shining in the sun. Applejack and Rainbow Dash staggering in spot but trying to stay stable. Pinkie chuckling as she tempted to push Rainbow over with a poke to her shoulder. Twilight held a book of battle strategy in front of her as her eyes scanned the pages in an unnatural pace. Rarity looked to be showing off her outfit, a white and blue work out suit. Fluttershy seemed to be the only one standing as if she was going to shouted at by a drill sergeant, Olwen guessed that she was scared into that position as the yellow girl was shaking like a leaf.
“Alright. Princess Sparkle.” Olwen looked to the violet woman as she snapped the book shut and a soft look.
“Twilight will be fine.” She replied tucking the book under her arm.
“Yes, either way. I was informed you were skilled in the arcane. What offensive spells do you know?” Olwen coughed turning to a large wooden crate, her tail swishing as she dug into the box.
“I don't know many offensive spells, I know a few beam type blasts, but they serve more as a way to push somepony back. I prefer to use shields and telekinesis.” Twilight answered as she tried to look around the cat warrior. “Are you going to teach me magic? I know a lot of spells, I could figure out how to use them as a form of protections.” A heavy looking tome was suddenly thrust in her direction. The white leather cover and a few large quills were bound by multiple dark leather straps. Her fingers fiddled with the small snap opening the book with a soft golden glow. A gasp as Twilight looked at the mathematical formulas contained on the pages. “These spells, they seem so logical yet illogical.” Twilight breathlessly scoured the pages.
“Those spells can be both offensive and defensive. They focus on protecting others by increasing their resistances to such things as blunt damage or illness, at the same time if used in an offensive way you turn those resistances around.” Olwen said turning to Rarity, the elegant woman tensed as the cat woman approached. “I was told you have magics as well and very precise.”
“I do have a talent at using magic to sew garments and..” Rarity began but stopped as Olwen turned around to the crate. “If I might ask, where did you get that box? It feels too large for you to carry all this way on your travels.”
“This is an armory chest, a small inventory that can expand by the uses of magics I don't entirely know.” Olwen said lifting a long cane out of the crate, on the top was a gaudy looking comet with a large glass bauble where the rock would be. In her other hand Olwen held a smaller plain looking leather book. “This staff will be your focus.” As she noticed Rarity eying the rather ugly looking thing. “I know the thing looks silly, You can make your own in time. I am lending this one to you so you can learn.” Rarity let out a sigh trying not to offend Olwen as she took the items she passed her. “The book contains spells that if you do not have control over your magics they will blow up in your face.”
“Why give me this when Twilight would be a better choice?” Rarity asked opening the book with one hand as she leaned the staff on her shoulder. “These spells look very damaging wouldn't you want to have more magic the better?”
“Not necessarily.” Twilight piped up. “You can be very destructive by hitting things in just the right spot. You don't even need to use an amazing show of force. Think of it as taking a sweater apart from pulling on one thread.”
“That would be very shoddy workmanship.” Rarity replied looking almost offended by her friend. A roll of the eyes from many other members and a confused cat girl.
“It is less about the workmanship, more about breaking something with smallest thing.” Twilight replied as she pinched the bridge of her nose.
“You will use accurate spells to break the monster's armor and defenses so that say Applejack or Rainbow Dash to get in and attack. If you only focus on power then the spells can go awry, putting your friends and allies at risk.” Olwen coughed turning back to the crate.
“You are going to teach us how to fight up close?” Rainbow asked her voice dipping from the normal confident tone. Glancing to Applejack who was scratching her head. “What do you think we will get?”
“I don't reckon we will get the fancy spells and junk.” Applejack chuckled getting a glare from Twilight. “No offense Twilight. I just don't get all that stuff.”
“None taken.”
Olwen stood with two pairs of weapons, one pair of long thin blades and a pair of claws in the shape of a manticore's head. She held out the weapons to Rainbow and Applejack. The pair looked at the weapons slightly confused. Applejack took the claws turning them as she tried to understand how to use them, Rainbow looked rather disappointed towards her weapons.
“What is with these?” Rainbow asked almost pouting. “I want really cool weapons these things look like they would break If I swung at anything. Applejack's looks like they should be a thing that goes with a costume. Where is the big smashy weapons.”
Olwen smirked as she raised an eyebrow. “I will explain in a minute I have spent too much time on Rarity and Twilight Sparkle to get them studying those books.”
Olwen smirked as she turned around to draw a harp from the box. The simply painted wooden harp that looked like it was rather heavy and bulky. Pinkie grinned as she had the harp held out to her.
“I like this, but it isn't like everyone elses.” Pinkie said doing a flick of the wrist on the strings.
“This is a bow Pinkie Pie.”
“This is a harp, you use a bow on a cello or fiddle.” Pinkie giggled as she patted Olwen on the head. Taking the harp from the pinkie clad woman Olwen gave a snap of her wrist, the harp extended a second arm into a large bow as metal latches snapped into place locking it into its form. Pinkie looked shocked as she had the bow thrust at her. “You said that Dashie didn't have the concentration for a bow earlier. I'm not that much better.”
Olwen looked at her surprised quickly regaining her composure. “I don't expect you to use the bow often, you will use the harp to support and bolster the moral. With the right song and enchantment you can drive lesser enemies to run away.” She watched as Pinkie gave a few plucks of the harp and musical notes formed in front of her, her face lit up as the notes slowly faded into the aether. “Those strings are enchanted, so you just have to practice with it.”
Fluttershy shrunk down as Olwen approached her, the stern look on the cat woman had not changed as she stopped in front of the yellow clad woman. Standing up straight as Olwen clicked her heels together Fluttershy couldn’t help but wonder what she had in store for her. Sighing loudly Olwen turned from the pink hair woman.
“I debated what weapon to teach you Miss Fluttershy. I consulted Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.” Olwen said as she moved to the crate. Lifting out an enormous green dyed leather book and a small hand axe with a large clay jug wrapped in a coarse rope. “We debated and argued that you would not be fit for physical warfare.” Fluttershy's shoulders drooped, Rainbow moved to intercept Olwen but felt an arm across her chest. “Luna mentioned your gift with the local wildlife, I also witnessed it first hand yesterday.” Olwen said calmly as she placed the jug on the ground with the hand axe. Taking a few steps she placed the book down. “I want you to make the choice with what you feel comfortable with.” A flash of light and Olwen stood in front of her her outfit changed into a long green coat with a white dress underneath a curved horn adorned her head. “You could chose the path of the summoner.” Olwen said as she flipped through a book of her own and a glowing circle surrounded her as a large glowing green bird creature materialized beside her, it screeched and gave a cackle as it hovered by Olwen's shoulder but remained like a trained parrot. “Or you can chose the path of the Beastmaster.”
Olwen disappeared into a flash again the bird pet letting out a squawk as it returned to the aether. Olwen stood in front of the group her armor changed to a leather harness with white hides of some sort of Minotaur, her helmet had a pair of curved horns like a ram. A similar jug dangled from her belt the small axe on her other hip. Taking a small sample of a potently smelling fluid from the jug, Olwen spread it on the ground a few seconds later a large bulbous crab with two large woven baskets, seemed to appear out of a portal to lick up the fluid it gave a couple clicks as Olwen patted it on the head. The others watched curiously as the crab wandered around for a few seconds before taking its place by her leg, the group noticed the full size of the creature standing the height of Olwen's hip.
“Fluttershy I never shown you all of what Summoner could do because Luna guessed that you would take this profession.” Olwen said motioning to the crab to approach the pink haired girl. “Carrie here is only one of the pets that you can summon to you if you have the right jug on your hip. I had hers on me at the time.”
“Why would Luna think this is the way to fight for me? I don't want creatures to fight for me and get hurt.” Fluttershy squeaked as she knelt to look at the crab more closely.
“You wouldn't be letting them fight alone.” Olwen flipped the hatchet from her belt. “You fight with them at your side. They will be your friends and companions.” Olwen looked at the hesitation in the yellow wearing woman, her eyes snapping between the hatchet and a crab who seemed very happy to investigate the other members of the line. “I was told you are good with animals. I trust that you would not let them get too hurt if things got a little hectic, but remember your friends and allies will rely on you and your companion if they get into trouble.”
“I think I understand.” Fluttershy whispered as she held out her hand and grabbed the jug of fluid that was on Olwen's waist. She blushed vividly as she realized what she did and the confused look on the Beastmaster's face. “I'm sorry I'm sorry.” Fluttershy moaned as she crouched into a ball her cheeks glowing crimson, she was surprised when a muted chirp and a heavy nudge to her shoulder made her look to the large crab lightly shoving her in a playful motion. Fluttershy giggled.
“Alright... Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, and Fluttershy please study and get to know your companions.” Olwen said dusting off her hands turning away from the crab and the pink haired woman. “Pinkie you can watch us and see if anything inspires you.” Olwen smirked as she eyed Pinkie bouncing with now collapsed harp.
Olwen cleared her throat and moved back to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. “You two will be the front line. You will protect the other four. Applejack You will focus on strong strikes preferably to the sides of a creature we will be fighting if the elements do not work.” A few whispers of “I hope they work.” and “She underestimates the elements.” spread between the girls. Pinkie and Rainbow sat down to the side as they watched their teacher focus on the tallest of the group.
A small flash of light and Olwen stood in front of Applejack wearing a yellow tunic with sparse metal plating on only small sections of her shoulders and hands. The apple family member took a step back slightly as Olwen stood before her with her hands behind her back. Breathing in a deep breath and relaxing Olwen surprised the farmer. “Try to hit me Applejack.”
“I don't think that is a good idea.” Applejack said nervously as she had hooked the claws to her belt. “I don't want to hurt ya none.”
“Do not worry about that.” Olwen said calmly.
“Alright I guess you are gonna be a world of hurt.” Applejack shrugged as she prepared a punch.
…
Applejack groaned as she opened her eyes to Olwen holding out a hand to help her to her feet. “What in tarnation did you just do?” Applejack groaned as she lifted easily by the smaller woman. Applejack looked to a laughing Rainbow and surprised looks from the other girls.
“I threw you.” Olwen said inn an almost monotone voice. “You will be learning the way of the monk. A skill set that relies on not only using your strength, that you have an abundance of and a sense of control of when to use that strength.”
“Why did ya throw me then?” Applejack asked adjusting her stetson.
“A good martial artist does not oppose force. She is the compliment and not the opposition to her opponents strength.”
“I don't get it.”
“She has no technique; she makes her opponent's technique her technique. She has no design; she makes opportunity her design.” Olwen said as she made a motion for another round, Applejack growled as she readied herself again.
Applejack swung wide with a right hook, but was deflected by a swat of Olwen's hand and a dip of her head. Applejack pulled back to give a left jab she quickly pulled her arms across her chest as Olwen rammed her with a shoulder causing the apple farmer to stumble slightly as the cat woman gave a light open palmed strike to her foe knocking Applejack to the ground. A grunt of frustration and a few chuckles from Pinkie and Rainbow made the apple farmer punch the ground as she stood.
“I ain't givin up that easy.”
“Good.” Olwen replied as she took a combat stance and took a few steps towards Applejack.
…
Olwen walked up to Rainbow Dash wiping her hands free of any dirt. Rolling some spit around her mouth and spit to the ground. “I guess that lucky punch didn't loosen any teeth Applejack.” A groan was heard from behind her as she looked to Rainbow Dash, the cocky grin that was once on the prismatic woman now gone as she looked around the small cat woman to her friend who sat on the grass covered in bruises and dirt. Fluttershy had made her way over and was helping Applejack to her feet and a bottle of water ready for her. Surprisingly Applejack had a confident smirk on her lips.
“Rainbow Dash, you have been chosen to be a rogue. You will be up close and personal with the beast.”
“You want Dashie to get all lover girl with a monster? Eww” Pinkie butted in faking a gagging motion.
“Not that way Pinkie.” Rainbow groaned as she stood. “So you want me to dazzle it with my style and positively good looks.” Rainbow smirked and gave a flex.
“No. Not at all.” Olwen said crossing her arms. “You will be striking at the beast at the joints, the back and being an annoying pest.” Rainbow's eyes bulged out for a millisecond as the remark hit home.
“Are you saying I'm a pest.” Rainbow hovered in front Olwen her fists clenched ready to take a swing.
“Personally I have no idea if you are a pest, but with the right training you could use your speed to use strike and run tactics so you would avoid ever getting hit.” Olwen said her face nearly emotionless. Rainbow began to tremble in rage as Olwen changed to the outfit she wore last night, the blue armor and black chain mail. Only this time her head was shrouded in a blue head covering and scarf that covered her mouth. Clapping her hands together Olwen let out a long held breath.
Rainbow watched as Olwen turned her head to Twilight and Rarity, the rainbow headed woman's rage exploded. Rainbow jumped at Olwen with her twin swords, Rainbow landed with the twin blades imbedded into the earth. A confused look on her face as she turned around to see a fading image of Olwen disappear, Rainbow stood and looked to her friends confused as Pinkie bounced up and down pointing looking to be shouting but nothing coming from her mouth.
A dull stabbing feeling in her side made her look down to see Olwen's gloved hand retreat from just below her ribs. Turning on a heel Rainbow made a wild swing with a sword only to meet air. Another dull pain in her opposite side Rainbow cried out and growled as she kicked out behind her only to feel a hand between her shoulder blades.
Olwen stood over Rainbow an open hand as her target lay facing away with her butt in the air comically as her arms splayed out like a bird hitting a window. Pushing herself up and spitting out a few strands of grass Rainbow turned and gave Olwen a glare.
“You pushed me!” Rainbow bellowed as she stood.
“Yes.” Olwen said calmly as placed her hands behind her back.“Did you listen to what I said to Applejack about using an opponent's technique?”
“Ya, I don't understand it, but I heard you.” Rainbow said looking confused.
“To be a good rogue one must watch their opponent and exploit the flaws in their technique. You were taking large wild swings, it was easy to stay behind you and get you frustrated enough for you to make yourself off balance. I just finished the job by knocking you over.”
“That hardly seems fair.” Rainbow protested but was silenced by an upraised hand.
“You are wielding two swords and I beat you with just my hands.” Olwen said calmly causing Rainbow to blush wildly. “I used only two spells to trick you. Utsusemi for a shadow of myself and Doton to stop our audience from warning you.”
“I don't have those things. How would I stop that?” Rainbow whined stomping the ground like a child.
“Watch me and figure out a way to exploit it. A rogue shouldn't have a problem fighting dirty.” Olwen smirked under the mask.
…
Olwen turned to Twilight and Rarity her face turning neutral after the workout that Rainbow had just put her through, the prismatic woman lay on her back breathing hard, her arms and legs splayed out in all directions. Taking a few deep breaths and a grabbing a bottle of water from the outstretched hand of Pinkie, Olwen smiled at the two women training to be mages.
“Have you learned anything from the books? It is nearly noon.” Olwen asked taking a long drink from the bottle.
“This is really dense I don't think I can understand this.” Rarity whined as Twilight rolled her eyes.
“Yours is simple elemental control, switching between elements at the right timing so that your body does not overheat and switching back so you do not freeze yourself.” Twilight said coldly as she turned another page ignoring the glare that Rarity gave her. “I see another reason why Olwen chose you for this magic. If I put too much mana into the spell I could literally freeze myself into an ice block, or even blow myself up if I used the fire spells. You have a smaller chance of doing that due to your smaller mana pool to draw from.” Olwen nodded as Twilight explained to the seamstress. “Also would you rather want this spell?” Twilight held out the book to Rarity who scanned the page and paled as the information sunk in.
“When did you put letters into math?” Rarity shyly asked as Twilight giggled.
“Let us take a break and get some food.” Olwen said glancing over her shoulder to the recovering girls. “I want Twilight and Rarity to keep studying while they eat. The others you will get a meal and return back here and we will do some drills.”
A few groans and mumbled curses from the group made the cat warrior to roll her eyes before heading into the castle. She did not notice the two pairs of eyes looking down at her and her group as they stood and moved to the castle.
“Do you think letting her train them is a good idea?” Minfillia asked Luna who stood with her hands behind her back.
“I admit that the training is a little unorthodox, but those girls are very important to this country. Knowing at least one form of self defense is not a terrible thing. Both my sister and I know a few forms of combat. That alone can give a lot of knowledge and insight later in life. We do not need to use the knowledge, but we have it for when we need it.” Luna said rather calculating as she turned from the window. “Only time will tell if this will help those girls. Hopefully they will never have to see what Olwen has seen.”
Minfillia stopped suddenly as the Lunar leader took a few steps before stopping herself. “How much do you know about Olwen?”
“Seeing the world as how I've seen it would make you question all that you know.” Luna said coldly looking over her shoulder.
“Try me.” Minfillia said with a stern look on her face.
Luna just smiled as she motioned to a library.
A break and a bubble part 1
Celestia stepped towards the dining hall her assistant Raven quickly in toe her face buried in a small stack of paperwork. Celestia had thought it would be good for the two of them to take a break and deal with the new rush of complains and demands from her populace with a full stomach. When she opened the door however what greeted her was three of the six elements of harmony looking rather exhausted as they poked the meals in front of them, the other three looking confused or not paying attention at all.
“What is going on here?” Celestia asked as Twilight was the only one who noticed her presence and placed her book down.
“It was the first day of training.” Twilight explained looking to the three tired looking girls. “I don't know why your tired Rarity it was just reading on your part.”
A huff of air escaped the seamstress. “It wasn't just reading Darling. To you magic is simple, to me it is much more... what is the word I am looking for.” She asked nobody as she looked to the sky.
“Straining! Flabbergasting! Smackledorfing! Exhausting!” Pinkie hopped up shouting words.
“Nuanced, but thank you for your attempts Pinkie.” Rarity said with a comforting smile to the pink haired girl. “It is like the book is in another language to me.”
“It is Rarity.” Twilight said holding up the book in question. “This is Eorzean, very similar to our language but it has a few misplaced words and grammar structure. Than what we are used to. It is very fascinating.” A few groans from down the line of girls made Twilight stop before she began with a rant about the magical theory. “Rainbow are you sore? Do you want me to try and use this spell to heal you? It is amazing how they have made healing magics not just for people talented with them, but are able to be used by a large percent of ponies.” Twilight's hand glowed a soft green but was stopped as Rainbow held up a hand.
“It is a dull throb in my sides that should hurt, I was groaning because you girls are making my head hurt.” Rainbow joked causinggiggles from Applejack and Pinkie.
“Barbarian.” Rarity scoffed earning a dark look from Applejack and Rainbow.
“Lets see how you would hold up getting tossed around by that beast.” Rainbow hopped up quickly and immediately regretted it, as the sore muscles made themselves known. She winced as she slowly sat down
“She didn't exactly go easy on us. I did think she was holdin back tho.” Applejack said confidently getting looks of confusion from her friends. “You heard the guards talking when we went out last night Rainbow. Olwen isn't doing this to be mean, she wants us to be able to handle ourselves when the manure hits the fan.”
“What do you mean? She flattened me a couple times. Hitting me in the sides and cheating in a fight.” Rainbow shouted punching the table.
“She told you to be a dirty fighter in the way she was training you Dash.” Applejack said rubbing her shoulder as a loud pop was heard. A few of the girls winced at the sound, the relived look on the apple farmer's face made them mimic her. “You don't think all them buggers out there are going to fight fair are ya. Discord didn't. Tirek didn't. What makes ya think the primals are?”
Celestia sat down at the head of the table ignoring as the two friends bickered. Raven quickly placing the papers for her employer to work through. Celestia ignoring the work for this moment interrupted the element bearers. “Where is Miss Stormcaller anyways?”
“She said to come get a meal and relax before heading out for more drills.” Fluttershy replied to the Solar Princess. “She did not follow us here.” Fluttershy shrunk as Celestia turned to her.
“Maybe she went to see her friends that came with her.” Pinkie commented as Celestia held a hand to her chin.
…
Olwen sat on a table across from Urianger, the elven man had back to his friend and his head buried in a pile of books looking for anything wrong with the backlog of shipping manifests. He straightened cracking his neck.
“You know you don't have to watch me work.” Urianger commented rather coldly to his friend.
“I am just looking at one of us getting something done while here.”
“No luck in training?” he chuckled as he swapped one large book for another, he ignored the sigh of defeat from the Miqo'te woman. “I know your skills have gotten you far in Eorzea, but we are not in Eorzea.” He said turning in the chair to look at Olwen. “You are training civilians as well. You must remember they will go back to their normal lives. You will go back to adventuring when this primal business is through.”
“Are you saying don't get attached?” Olwen asked shifting under his gaze.
“Not at all. Don't you remember having a normal life?” Urianger asked noticing how his friend stiffened. “I take it I stepped into dark memories.”
“Not really. Just my parents were never very fond of my choice to leave the Shroud.” Olwen said kicking her feet at the air. “I never took up hunting like my sisters, they enjoyed tracking and killing prey they have hunted before, and were excellent at it. I preferred the discovery of the unknown, the thrill of finding something that nobody has seen in years is intriguing to me.”
“So the tales of curiosity and the cat are true then.” Urianger coughed as he received a death glare from his friend. “Sorry.”
Olwen hopped off the table and turned to the door, but stopped as she glanced back to her Urianger. “How long do you think this will take?”
“The crystal hunt?” Urianger asked turning to the paperwork. “Could be a couple of weeks to a month. We may get lucky and figure it out in a few days. I will contact you when I find something.” Olwen nodded and walked to the door.
“Just remember don't work yourself to the bone.” Olwen joked as she opened the door.
“Same to you.”
…
Minfillia leaned against a desk looking at the floor. Luna sat at a nearby desk watching the Scion leader, she could almost see the gears turning in the blond woman's head. She was interrupted by the blond breathing in deeply and let it out slowly.
“So you are saying the Elements of Harmony had trapped you in a moon, five years ago you were released. You were possessed by a shadowy force, the Elements cleansed you and you are the way you are now.” Luna nodded as the Scion began to pace. “This aligns with what we have called the Calamity, the fall of Dalamud. And the release of the elder primal Bahamut.” A confused look spread on the Lunar Princess's face, Minfillia noticed and continued.
“Five years ago the moon Dalamud fell on Eorzea, What we didn't know at the time it was a construct by an ancient race to imprison Bahamut so he could not be summoned. They had trapped many of his devout followers to keep their prayers to keep him summoned away from Eorzea. Bahamut was released due to what I believe was one man's arrogance and ambition to destroy us all so there was no competition for his invasion. The details are foggy at best. A dear friend and mentor...” Minfillia stumbled on the words as she rubbed her arm. She turned away from the princess to a nearby window overlooking a garden. Breathing deeply as she appeared to shake slightly. ”A dear friend sacrificed himself by placing barriers to stop most of Bahamut's attacks. We tried to reseal him, but he broke free and vanished. Since then we have been trying to prevent any further events like that to happen.”
“I am sorry for your loss.” Luna spoke up moving behind Minfillia placing a hand on the smaller woman's shoulder. “I am sure they did what they believed was right.” Taking a solemn nod from Minfillia, she continued. ”I was not aware that my prison also held a beast of such power. ”
Minfillia did not react as Luna turned back to the library. “Maybe there is more to the Elements than we know.” Luna said to nobody in particular, but it got Minfillia thinking.
“Maybe there is.” She said as she looked to a pair of gardeners trying to patch up a lattice arch. “Like everything is a tangled mess.”
…
The dining room only had the element bearers inside the long room as Celestia and her assistant had rushed out to tend to deal with the court. Still the element bearers were surprised when a guard rushed into the room and knelt before Twilight holding a letter. “This was rushed to us from Ponyville.” He said as he nearly shouted to the floor, taking it from him Twilight opened it quickly. The guard took this time to rush back to his post.
“If it was so urgent why didn't they use Spike? He has a direct line to Princess Celestia.” Fluttershy asked getting a nod from Applejack and Rainbow.
“Maybe this is from the Mayor?” Rarity suggested as Twilight's expression seemed to sour. “Oh dear don't make that face it is so unbecoming.”
Twilight ignored the comment as she looked to her friends. “Trixie has shown up in Ponyville again. This time she is claiming she could beat me in another competition. She demanded my presence, Spike tried to explain to her that I wasn't there and she ran to Mayor Mare and harassed her enough to send this letter. I assume Mayor Mare did express post to get Trixie out of her hair.” Twilight said folding up the letter.
Rainbow groaned as she hit her head on the table. “Not that showboat again. Doesn't she ever get a hint.”
“She may be a ruffian, but she is a determined mare I will give her that.” Rarity said earning a nod from Twilight and Applejack.
“So what are y'all gonna do?” Applejack asked looking to Twilight.
“I guess we will have to go back home and stop Trixie. I don't know what she would do if we didn't show up.”
“What about Olwen and the primal stuff?” Pinkie asked hopping up from her seat. “We said we would train with her and I don't think she would be happy if we ditched her. That wouldn't be nice.”
“You got a point Pinkie. What do we do bout all this?” Applejack asked looking to Twilight as she looked at the letter in deep thought.
“I am worried about Spike.” Twilight said getting to her feet. “We will have to postpone training until this event is settled. We will explain to Olwen that an emergency has come up at home and we will return as soon as possible.”
Just as she finished the sentence the door to the dining hall opened to reveal the woman in question. Six sets of eyes turned to the cat woman. She looked to the six women and knew something was up as they all tensed up. “Are you afraid of training that much?” Olwen tried to make a joke but her near monotone voice seemed to echo in the long hall.
“It isn't that.” Twilight coughed. “I just got word that a thorn in my side has shown up again and may be doing something back home.” She growled the last couple words trying to not sound angry, but came out even angrier.
“So you are going to go deal with this annoyance.” Olwen said calmly walking towards the group. “I have no problems with it.” The group looked to her confused for a few seconds.
“You are supposed to train us if the Elements of Harmony don't work.” Twilight said the anger still in her voice but was easing up. “How can you train us if we run home?”
“Twilight Sparkle, I have been talking with Urianger. The tall guy from the other day.” Olwen made a motion of how tall the man was with a raised hand. “He has said that it may take a couple weeks or more to figure out where the primal could be summoned. I am usually in the field so I usually am only called in the short couple days to hours before the primal is summoned.” Twilight looked at the cat girl curiously. “Letting you go home and deal with matters will not slow down training. Just remember to train as you do other things.”
“You mean take the book with me? What about the others?” Twilight asked getting nods from the other ladies around the table. “They all have jobs that will need to be tended to soon.”
“They are free to go as well. As long as they keep training.” Olwen said giving the group a commanding look. “I haven't taught you much so I may have to go with you to teach you on the side.”
“What do ya mean by that?” Applejack asked leaning on her elbow.
“Applejack, what do you do for a living?”
“I help run Sweet Apple Acres. Best apple farm in Central Equestria.” Applejack said proudly puffing out her chest. “But I don't know how that has to do wit anythin'.”
“You could be training to be a monk as you do the farming. Controlled accurate strikes to the trees, to toughen your hands, shins and even shoulders to help protect yourself when you fight.”
“We already buck them.” Applejack remarked getting a confused look from the cat woman. “We kick the trees in the right spot so they drop the ripe fruit.”
“You are already on the way.”
Rainbow slammed her hands onto the table hopping up. “You mean we could be learning this stuff at home.” She shouted, Twilight tried to hush her but was ignored as the speedster threw up her hands in an over dramatic way.
“How would we know if Urianger had found out where the primal is?” Twilight motioned for Rainbow to sit. “If time is of the essence then we would have to head out as soon as possible when they show their face.”
Olwen reached into her belt and produced a small clam shelled container. The dark blue caught Rarity's eye immediately a smirk on her face. “Is that what I think it is darling?” Rarity asked as the group turned to the small object.
“It is a link shell.” Olwen said calmly as the seamstress seemed almost giddy with excitement. “How do you know what it is?”
“It is a budding trend in Manehatten.” Rarity answered with a smile, Twilight looked to her in confusion. “A few of the sailors and a few other ponies have been using a new found creature that releases pearls that you can communicate with. If I remember right, a pirate crew that was arrested here gave them the idea.” Olwen nodded as she continued. “If you hold the pearl to your ear you can squeeze it and are able to transmit sound to other people that had a pearl from the same creature. I have been wanting to make them into accessories for the fashion world here.”
“Yes, this shell is connected to the other Scions. Minfillia and Urianger both have a pearl for us to communicate with. They have a long distance but lose signal in certain weather and a few other minor concerns.” Olwen explained placing the shell back into her belt. “Any questions?”
A thrust of a pink hand made everyone turn. “When you change clothes in the flashy thing, how do you know that the link thingy will stay in your belt?” Pinkie Pie asked getting looks of confusion from all around the table. She giggled as the group shrugged their shoulders.
“If you come with us then you will have to have a place to stay. The new castle has plenty of extra rooms, you can stay in one of them.” Twilight said calmly as Olwen nodded. “You all have to head out soon I don't want Trixie to do something stupid. I am going to go on ahead.” Seeing the nods from her friends she returned the nod, glowed in a purple aura and vanished.
“Teleportation?” Olwen asked.
“Eeeyup. She has gotten better at teleporting herself. She still ain't all that keen on takin a whole group far though.” Applejack answered getting up from the table and heading towards the door. “We better tell the Princess bout this and get ready ta head out.” They all nodded and headed for the door.
Olwen stopped and let out a sigh, the group turned to her confused. "I never gave her a pearl. I hope nothing big happens while we are separated."
"Oh don't worry it is just Trixie. Twilight has dealt with her before." Rainbow chuckled flying ahead.
…
Twilight reappeared in her throne room with a flash of purple light. She gave herself a small smile as she walked to an open window quickly glancing to see what Trixie could have done to the town. Looking over the lazy town she couldn't tell if anything was out of place. Seeing nothing wrong the friendship princess turned to find her assistant.
“Spike are you here?” Twilight shouted earning only echos in return.
Her hooves clacked loudly on the hard floors as she made her way through the crystalline castle. The unnerving emptiness crawled up the violet princess's spine, she made the decision to speed up her walk. That feeling just added to itself as her hoof falls sped up adding even more echos.
Stepping out into the warming sun a soft sound of music drifted on the breeze, the haunting sound of a carnival theme. The tune seemed muffled and made the chill return, this made Twilight worry and rush to the sound. As the music grew louder Twilight heard the mummer of various ponies, turning a corner she looked to the open market teeming with ponies in center of all the usual stalls stood a large cart with an enormous stage. On the stage was lights and various machines on posts that looked to be giving off the music.
One pony turned and noticed Twilight, a mint coloured woman with short two tone messy hair. The woman motioned to her come to her. Twilight obeyed and leaned in to listen to the woman. “You have any idea what this is? Seems like something like the showboat from before.”
“I have an idea Lyra. It is the same showboat.” Twilight replied earning a face palm from the mint woman.
“Seriously? This is what the fourth or fifth time she has been here and caused trouble?” Lyra nearly shouted but was drowned out as the music grew louder and a puff of white smoke appeared on stage.
The smoke dissipated to reveal a woman clad in a starry cloak and matching large pointy hat. The woman bowed before silencing a the crowd that sounded rather angry. “The great and powerful Trixie has appeared before you all to call out the one known as Twilight Sparkle. This will be a challenge like no other and you all may witness as a mere mare can defeat a princess chosen pupil.”
Twilight groaned as she made her way through the crowd ignoring the few shouts of ponies as the woman on stage tried to calm them. This was going to be annoying. Twilight stepped to the edge of the stage and walked up a set of stairs and proceeded to stand behind the magician as she tried to calm the crowd.
“Trixie, seriously.” Twilight asked her voice bored and annoyed as the crowd noticed their princess step on stage grew quiet. The magician spun on her heel and glared at the violet mage.
“Trixie's honor and reputation has been shamed by you and your tricks.” Trixie bellowed as she thrust a finger into the air.
“You have done that to yourself most of the time.” Twilight sighed as she pinched her nose. “Second time you used a cursed artifact, why don't you just go and do magic and move on.” Twilight suggested ignoring the now fuming woman in front of her.
“Trixie has been training for this moment! Trixie shall not let her rigorous training in the mountains to be wasted!”
Twilight looked at the woman and sighed louder and turning away from the magician. A few laughs from the crowd and a few ponies began to leave, this made Trixie furious as her rival turned and began walking down the steps.
“Halt! I demand that you fight me in a magical duel.” Twilight stopped and slowly turned to the magician.
“Trixie, I have no time for this. I need to find Spike and fill him in on a few things.” Twilight declined turning back around.
“So you are chicken.” Trixie laughed loudly as Twilight shrugged her shoulders.
“I don't have time for this.”
“The great and powerful Trixie demands your time.” As a barrier of stars cut off Twilight's retreat, this just made Twilight clench her fists. “Don't try to run my spells are already in place. You cannot leave until one of us is defeated.”
“Trixie, I don't want to hurt you so I will do this.” A snap of her glowing hands a violet bubble formed around the now confused magician, striking the barrier only seemed to reinforce the dome.
Walking calmly to the edge of the bubble Twilight put a foot on the barrier. A wing powered shove made the bubble begin to roll, the bubble rolled off the stage and into the parting crowd who added to the momentum of the orb. The orb rolled down a street and towards the bridge out of town, the container wobbled slightly and rolled into the river with a loud pop the barrier released. Trixie was released with the magician sputtering and gagging as the motion of the orb caught up with her.
Wiping her hands clear of any dust Twilight sighed and moved to walk off the stage ignoring the laughing crowd. The sound of somepony smacking into glass silenced the crowd as they turned from the drenched magician to their resident princess who sat on her behind and rubbing her forehead. The crowd looked on confused as Lyra moved to help Twilight to her feet, a second sound of somepony hitting glass and a confused and angry mint haired woman holding her nose.
“What in the hay?” Lyra cursed as she reached out with a hand. Her hand lay flat against an invisible barrier. A knowing look crossed Twilight's face as Lyra moved around to try and find the edge of the barrier, but only circled around the stage that Twilight stood on. “Twilight I don't think there is a way out.”
“There is, there always is.” Twilight moved to the edge where she removed Trixie from the stage. Knocking on the magical wall the hollow echo spread through the crowd as many looked on confused. “If Trixie hasn't fled town yet she will know how to get this down. She wouldn't dare trap herself and not know a way out.”
“In the mean time since we will go searching for Trixie do you need anything?” Lyra asked as the crowd began to spread out and hunt for the magician.
“If you see Spike tell him where I am. Also get him to come here so we can tell the Princess all of the details.” Twilight sighed sitting down and began to try and figure out this spell.
Author's Note
This took a lot longer than it should have for multiple reasons I don't think need to be posted about my private life.
A break and a bubble part 2
The train rattled loudly as the cat warrior her head leaning back as if looked to the ceiling of the car. Her armor had returned to the heavy leather and plate, when questioned by the girls she told them she felt the most comfortable in it. They did not question further as they watched her pick a spot away from the crowd. Her eyes screwed shut trying to ignore the uneasiness in her gut. The travel companions ignored her as they talked among themselves, the excited conversations slightly distracted the warrior. A soft tap on her knee made her groan as she slowly opened her eyes to see who had poked her. The pink hair and yellowish complexion, she couldn't help but sigh was the look of concern was plastered on the young woman's face.
“Miss Stormcaller, are you okay? You have been in that position for a while. It didn't look like you were sleeping, I didn't wake you did I? I am sorry if I did.” Fluttershy asked her voice trembling towards the rambling.
“I wasn't sleeping.” Olwen said leaning head back. “I don't handle mechanical transport very well. I always feel off balance when on one, usually my head one way my stomach and legs in other directions.”
“It is called Motion Sickness. Many ponies and animals have that problem.” Fluttershy said softly as she poked the tips of her fingers together. The look Olwen gave Fluttershy made her blush and begin to mumble. “I'm not... your not an animal... I mean.. um.. oh dear.” A strong hand resting on her shoulder made her stop as she looked to Applejack's knowing eyes.
“Don't be taking offense. Sugarcube here just hasn't seen many people like ya. I think it is a little awkward since we have cats back home and well...” Applejack smiled awkwardly as she tried to word it as nicely as she could, Olwen just sighed. “Ya should know that there aren't many cat people in Equestria.”
“I know that all too well and I prefer Miqo'te to cat person.” Olwen replied it was Applejack's turn to blush as she nervously adjusted her hat. “I have been given a few odd looks from the crowds. None seemed angry more confused and curious.”
“How do ya know?”
“These ears aren't just for show.” Olwen said pointing to her head, the pair of triangular cat ears swiveled on her head. “I could hear the whispers from the people as they held their children closer or the jokes from the ignorant. I am sort of used to it from where I'm from.”
“I thought you had family back home.” Fluttershy said leaning forward putting a hand on Olwen's knee who flinched slightly from the touch.
“Oh sure my parents and sisters are back in the Shroud.” Olwen began but stopped as she noticed the confused looks. “It is a large dense forest in my home province if you will.” The pair nodded and Olwen continued. “I left the Shroud to find my way when I was still considered a kitten. I traveled to the island nation of Limsa Lominsa, it was a rough town founded by pirates and the ship builders. I went there looking for adventure, it found me. I was nearly abducted, but was saved by a marauder that ended up teaching me the way of the axe. I left to see the world and find adventure, doesn't mean I didn't find people that find my race just a bunch of thieves, or pretty faces that they could take advantage of. Or looked at like a weak messenger boy even after you have defeated hundreds of foes, just because I am a female or am a Miqo'te.” Breathing heavily she took a big breath and released it slowly. “I'm sorry I rambled there for a second.” The two girls in front of the warrior looked stunned but quickly regained their composure.
“It is alright sugarcube.” Applejack chuckled. “Ya look like ya needed it.”
“So your people stay in this Shroud? Does that mean there aren't many in other areas of your country.” Fluttershy mentioned getting a negative shake of the head from Olwen.
Holding up two fingers she gave a small smile.“There are two types of Miqo'te. I am a member of the Keepers of the Moon. The other is the Seekers of the Sun.” The two women glanced to each other a knowing smirk on their lips before turning their attention back to Olwen. ”The Seekers tended to spread out over the continent, while the Keepers prefer the Shroud to hunt. The Seekers prefer more bright and sunny areas and warmer temperatures, they also usually worship Azeyma one of the twelve deities of Eorzea. We Keepers, we like a more dark areas and the more moderate climates. We usually worship Menphina sister to Azeyma.” Olwen held her hands out as if holding a ball and began alternating their heights. “You have many similarities, but we have quite a few differences.”
“So is the red face paint there for this Menphina person?” Fluttershy asked getting a shake of the warrior's head.
“This is a mark that for my particular family has deemed as a mark of banishment.” Olwen said leaning back into the seat. The two girls looked to each other confused and was about to ask when a Train Attendant bellowed that they would arrive at Ponyville in five minutes. This caused the other members of the group to jump into action rushing to their belongings while Applejack and Fluttershy looked to each other with looks of concern.
The train screeched to a halt a few minutes later the small group leaving with Pinkie and Rainbow leading the way Olwen and Rarity following and Applejack and Fluttershy taking up the rear of the pack. The leading pair bolted off rushing to their homes, Applejack was about to stop them but was stopped by a yellow hand on her shoulder. Turning to the owner of said hand the farmer knew by the look on her face she was going to ask something big. Sighing and stopping in their tracks Applejack crossed her arms across her chest.
“Alright Sugarcube. What is on your mind?”
“We should find a way to help Olwen. She is banished from her family, I don't know how she could possibly be dealing with something like that.” Fluttershy looked to the apple farmer with pleading eyes.
“I know I would be mighty sad if I couldn't see my family. You know that.” Applejack said making Fluttershy brighten a bit. “But how would we possibly be able to do anything. We don't know what all went down with her Ma and Pa. We don't know anything about why she was banished. We also have no way of getting a hold of her family, or where they are at.” Applejack listed on her fingers some of the reasons. Each reason making the small smile on Fluttershy's face droop. “Listen here Sugarcube. I know ya mean well, but we can't do anything for the past, but we can be her friend and be there for her.” Applejack said bringing the smile back to Fluttershy.
“I guess you are right.” Fluttershy weakly said as she almost pouted.
“That's the spirit, plus we have so much going on right now the whole personal drama thing we don't need.” Applejack chuckled getting a giggle from Fluttershy.
“Can you imagine what Rarity would have done if she knew about this?”
“Chaos and I know it. Lets go find the others and Twilight so we can get at least one thing done today.” Applejack turned to the group that was beginning to disperse but had stopped. “What all ya stopped for?”
Rarity turned back to the farmer with a look of concern. “It feels odd.”
“What feels odd?” Fluttershy asked moving to the side of the dressmaker.
Rarity asked pointing to the near empty streets. The group looked out to the eerily quite town the streets empty of all life. The group looked to each other while Olwen noticed their fear and a hand hovered over the handle of her weapon.
“Rainbow.” Applejack barked making the woman spin on her heel. “Take to the air. We need to see where everyone is.” A mock salute and a pair of blue aetherical wings sprouted from her back and she took off like a shot. “Pinkie does anything feel more odd than usual?”
“A mild itch on the wrist, but nothing major.” Pinkie saluted similarly to Rainbow.
“Applejack.” Rarity spoke up stopping what the farmer was going to say.
“What is it Rares?”
“Mayor Mare sent the letter maybe we should head to city hall.” Rarity suggested getting nods from the rest of the group.
“Lets head there, Rainbow can find us on the way.” Applejack ordered as the group moved into the town. She moved close to Olwen who still held a hand over her weapon. “Any backup plans?”
“You seemed to have this handled.” Olwen said her face neutral. The emotionless look made Applejack shiver slightly as she watched Olwen. Her ears were moving quickly and her tail was twitching rapidly.
“She is in soldier mode right now.” Applejack thought as they moved through the town. “I hope nopony jumps out at us. She looks like she is about to pounce.”Applejack winced at her thought as the group neared the center of town when Rainbow landed in front of them.
“Twilight is on a stage in the center of town and a few ponies were there.” Rainbow answered the question everyone was about to ask. “I didn't land, I figured I would tell you girls.”
The group let out a collective sigh. They nodded and began to relax as they moved through the town. Coming into the main square and eying the gaudy stage, Pinkie spotted Twilight as she sat on the stage talking to a group that stood on the ground below her. Pinkie let out a loud squeal and charged towards the surprised woman.
“Twilight!” Pinkie screamed as she leapt towards the princess.
“Pinkie Wait!” Twilight tried to stop the pink blur, her hands held up defensively her eyes clenched shut. She was halted by almost the sound of a squeaky dog toy hitting a solid wall, opening an eye slowly she watched as her friend slowly slid down the barrier wall like a bug against a window. Pinkie landed on the ground with a soft squeak and peeled her body away from the invisible wall, her head wobbling slightly. “I tried to warn you. Are you alright Pinkie?” She asked trying to peek over the edge of the stage but was stopped.
“The snozzberries are a little sour, but they will be good in a week.” Pinkie mumbled as the crowd tried to help the party woman to sit up. The others closed the gap and looked confused as Pinkie regained herself.
“Hello girls.” Twilight said standing up and wiping skirt for dirt. “Trixie trapped me in a barrier. The townsfolk have been looking for her while I have been trying to figure it out.” She explained before the looks of confusion on the girls became vocal. “With testing I have proved that living creatures are stopped. Non living things such as food and non organic things seem to pass through.” Twilight said holding up a shovel and an apple that she lazily tossed to Applejack through the invisible wall.
“You beat her shouldn't it have vanished?” Applejack asked as she fruit and pressed a hand to the barrier.
“I did knock her off the stage but I believe she was still building the shield to keep us both inside when I tossed her out.” Twilight shrugged as she began to pace along the stage.
“We must find her so she can dispel this heinous crime.” Rarity spoke up stopping Twilight's pacing.
“We know that. She couldn't have gotten far.” Rainbow floated above the group. “I will find her in no time.” She started to take off but was stopped by a grip on her ankle. Looking down she saw Olwen holding it as she rummaged in her belt. “What is the big deal?”
“Olwen why did you stop Dash?” Applejack questioned as the Miqo'te drew a small vial from her belt.
“Fluttershy you can fly like dash here correct?” Olwen asked ignoring Applejack and the woman she held, Fluttershy nodded and lifted off the ground with a pair of pale yellow wings. Olwen handed her the vial. “This will help you track this Trixie.”
“How will this help us?” Rainbow leaned in looking at the red fluid.
“That vial contains a broth that will summon a beast that will help track Trixie's scent. His name is Saber Siravarde he looks intimidating but he is a big kitten and is actually easier to control than Carrie that Fluttershy trained with.” Olwen answered releasing Rainbow's ankle. “You will have to find something of Trixie's so he can get something to track though.”
“Her cart should be somewhere close.” Twilight spoke up looking over everyone's heads. “Over by the flower shop.” She pointed to a large wagon with a covered roof.
Fluttershy nodded dripping a few drops on the ground a large feline appeared before her in a swirl of energy, the tiger towered over her his dark grey coat and lighter grey stripes running from his back. A pair of large saber like teeth come from his mouth giving him a prehistoric look to him. His ears flicked around and looked down to the small woman before him and turned his head as she shrunk slightly from his surprising size. His gaze met Olwen who gave him a small smirk as he walked over and gave her a soft headbutt.
“Nice to see you too big guy but I wasn't the one that called you.” Olwen chuckled as Siravarde tilted his head to the side. Fluttershy floated beside the large cat and placed her hand on his side causing him to turn to her, noticing the vial he gave a loud purr as he turned to the pink haired woman circling her twice before giving her a similar headbutt he gave Olwen earning a giggle from Fluttershy. “Told you he was a kitten. Just treat him right Fluttershy and he will be your best friend.”
“I will.” She smiled as she floated beside the large cat. “Alright Mister Sirvarde we need you to help us track somepony. Come with me.” Fluttershy ordered as she flew to the cart lifting a star studded cloth from the cart and held it to the tiger. “We need to find this person and bring them back here. So no eating them please.” The large cat gave a small growl of acknowledgment and sniffed the cloth, he walked over to the stage and began to walk down the path to the river, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash quickly behind as he bounded off through the town.
“Now that those two will be after Trixie. Do you have a plan about this?” Rarity dramatically to Twilight who waved.
“Not a good one.” Olwen said calmly as she placed a hand on the bubble feeling it up and down before taking a few steps back and unsheathing the weapon from her back.
“Please don't tell me you intend to..” Rarity was interrupted by the warrior as she swung the axe in a wild broad swing, the heavy weapon slammed into the barrier with a loud boom. The people around it held their ears tightly as Olwen stood frozen in place for a few moments. “Are you alright darling?” Rarity shouted slightly as she rubbed her ears.
The weapon clanged loudly on the ground as Olwen let it drop from her shaking hands. Lifting her arm across her mouth a string of what the group could guess was profanities from her mother tongue, as she staggered slightly away from the weapon. Pinkie hopped over to the cat woman and placed a hand on her arm but quickly removed it with a giggle.
“Your all jiggly.” Pinkie giggled as Olwen shook her arms trying to rid her of vibrations.
“She must have gotten feedback from hitting the dome.” Twilight hypothesized. “You probably know about that Applejack.”
“Eeyup.”
Olwen returned to pick up the axe with Pinkie bouncing beside her. Rarity leaned in with a small smirk. “That was your plan.”
“I did say it wasn't a good one.” She answered tossing the weapon over her shoulder. “Do you have a better idea?” Olwen said rather coldly.
Placing a hand on the hip and letting out a huff. “No, not right now.” She answered as she watched Olwen inspect the spot she had hit.
“You have to give Trixie credit she has done good work with this spell.” Twilight smiled. “It kind of makes me proud she went to so much trouble.”
“But you are stuck in it Twilight.” Pinkie said pressing her face to the dome. “Why would you feel pride in it.”
Twilight gave a light giggle. “She designed this for me. She created a barrier that could hold an Alicorn. I know it sounds silly, but she was driven by me to create this.”
“I can see your point dear, but I disagree that this is anything worth praising.” Rarity commented tapping her foot. “What if she used this on say Celestia or Luna. How do you think you would feel about it then?”
Twilight sighed as Rarity's words dug in. “I guess you are right Rarity. This isn't something great but the thought that I inspired such a spell kind of blinded me.”
“Gettin all starry eyed ain't gonna get you out of this mess. Got any ideas?” Applejack asked the trapped woman.
“Well usually there are three types of shields. One that is strong and absorbs damage but is dramatic drain on the user, my brother makes those often. A softer shield that is meant to deflect the attack by removing the force of the attack, these are usually very squishy and cause attacks to spread the over the shield and lose all momentum like a pillow or trampolene. The final one a mirror shield, this works like a mirror reflecting the attack back but is very brittle and will break easily.” Twilight answered as she made small doodles on the dome with her finger. “It looks like we have a Strong one here, but with the result from Olwen's attack it is also a Mirror. The mirror did not break so it is safe to theorize that a soft shield is mixed in as well. Trixie seems to have interwoven the three shields.”
“Do the shields compliment each other?” Rarity wondered as she tapped her foot. “I only ever see ponies using one of them at a time. Why hasn't anypony else tried this?”
“They do not compliment each other normally. A combo isn't used by one pony because it is very taxing on the mana, mind and body. You remember how exhausted Cadance looked in the Cyrstal Empire when we first visited correct. It was the same deal.” Twilight pondered.
“What are the weaknesses of the types of shields?” Olwen asked as she leaned on her weapon.
“Strong shields potent against magic but are mana intensive the more damage it receives the more mana is drained. The soft shield is less mana intense but cannot take repeat blows in quick succession. Mirror is brittle and will break usually after strong blows but will reflect physical attacks back.”
The group sighed as they mulled over the information.
…
Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash trailed behind the large cat as he sniffed his way past the bridge out of town and along the edge of the Everfree Forest. Gliding beside her friend Rainbow looked uneasily to the large cat as it stalked the scent, turning to Fluttershy who looked rather joyous as she watched the pet left under her care Rainbow coughed lightly getting her friend's attention.
“Shy, do you really think letting this beast hunt is a good idea?”
“I think he will be vital to find Trixie. We don't know where she is and she might be the only one to be able to let Twilight free.” Fluttershy replied turning back to the large cat that turned to a path leading southwest of town. “Rainbow, isn't that towards Ghastly Gorge?”
“Ya. I guess that would be a good place to hide. Not a whole lot of people would head this way.” Rainbow smirked, she knew this gorge she trained flying through here countless times. There was only one path through the entire gorge and it would be easy to cut her off, they had flight on their side. She stopped as the Ghastly Gorge came into view and the sight of the disheveled white haired woman sitting on the cliff overlooking over the vast chasm.
Landing lightly both pegesi looked to each other as Saber sat at attention his tail flicking back and both. Fluttershy gave him a soft pat and a rub on his head before taking a few steps towards the woman.
“Trixie... is that you? Are you okay?”
The white haired woman's head snapped up at the voice her head whipping around to look at the offending party. Fluttershy took a step back as she looked at the teary eyed woman that had trapped her friend, the look of fear in her eyes quickly snapped to anger as she stood.
“You.. you are friends with Twilight Sparkle. She has already beat me are you here to rub it in?” Trixie snapped causing Fluttershy to jump back, Rainbow was about to jump in and the growl from the side told her the large cat was about to pounce.
Fluttershy held out a hand to halt the pair. “We came to ask you to come back to town. We need you..”
“To be mocked by the town. I refuse.” Trixie scoffed as she turned around.
“Your barrier is still active. Twilight is trapped and she knows you know how to dispell the barrier.” Fluttershy shouted surprising everyone. Trixie recovered from her shock and began to laugh slowly her laughter building to a cackle.
A blur of colours and Rainbow grabbed Trixie's collar pulling her close. The glare the prismatic pegasus gave the showmare was one that could have ended her if looks had any lethality. “You have no right to laugh right now. Tell us how to break the spell.” Rainbow growled.
Trixie's laughter died down to a broad grin. “My spell was broken when I was thrown from the stage. I lost all concentration when I was tumbling from Twilight's spell.” Rainbow's grip tightened on the collar.
“You are lying.”
“A mage must have a visual connection to the area that they cast the spell. This is only exempt from travel spells such as teleportation. Teleportations are dangerous because you may warp into objects or other things because you don't have visual of the area.” The pair of pegasi looked at her confused slightly. “What do you think would happen if a pony teleported inside of a wall or another pony?”
A few moments of silence was met by wide eyed stares and a retching sound from Fluttershy. Trixie gave the pair a deadpanned look as Rainbow slowly let her down. “The thing is. If I'm not the one with the spell. Who is?”
“You should come with us so you can prove yourself innocent.” Fluttershy mentioned wiping her mouth with a handkerchief.
“Ya you should do that. If you aren't the cause so you have nothing to fear.” Rainbow said crossing her arms across her chest and giving the magician a glare.
“I will return to prove my innocence, if I get attacked I blame you.”
“Whoa whoa whoa...” Rainbow was about to protest but stopped as a held landed on her shoulder. A knowing look from Fluttershy made her sigh. “Fine. If you get in trouble I will step in.”
“Alright then. We should head out then.” Trixie said pushing past the two women and the tiger.
“I am going to regret saying that aren't I?” Rainbow growled as she watched Trixie stomp towards town.
“We both might. It did get her to go back.” Fluttershy answered as she floated to Saber's side giving him a pet before following the white haired magician.
