Chapters The dry, sandy mountains were beautiful, but as General Helios took the last sip from his ever emptying canteen, he realized he didn't have much more time to enjoy the view. The Gem Peaks, as they were known, were a vast and largely unexplored mountain range between Everfree and Canterlot. A winding labyrinth of sheer cliffs and dry riverbeds were normally bypassed by travelers not using the railroad or an airship. Helios wished the train ran to where he was going, and that he didn't need to slog through the endless expanse or fly through the jagged peaks. With supplies running low to none, Helios knew he soon would be relying on his survival skills, just to make the return trip to Ponyville to reunite with his men.
Just before him in the pass, Helios saw his destination, a massive, nigh-impassible wall of granite mountains, pockmarked by mine entrances, and veined with narrow cart rails. Hundreds of shaggy diamond dogs industriously darted about, pushing carts or shoveling mining waste into an ever-growing debris pile at the base of the cliff. Helios recognized this as a Diamond dog colony; he'd seen many before. Over the years, Helios had dealt with many of the Diamond dogs’ leaders as a diplomat. The dogs lived in isolated and separated tribes, all happily working these mines to satisfy an ever-growing desire for gems and precious metals. Helios had seen a number of these colonies, and most were smaller operations of a few dozen families.
Without his armor plate, Helios was enjoying an ease of flying that he normally didn't have. With only his cloak and shoes, he flew silently along the edge of the cliff unnoticed, to an outer mine entrance. The Pegasus wriggled his way though the small hole, which judging by it's small size, Helios figured it was either for draining rainwater or a garbage chute. He shuddered, remember a soldier's story about a time when he'd sneaked through a similar hole to find it was actually a latrine. However as Helios reached the top of the chute he found himself surrounded by a few empty lanterns and broken mine carts. He waited a brief moment as his eyes adjusted to the dim light of the forgotten byway of the tunnel.
“ I don't know if this is what she was looking for . . .”
Helios rubbed his chin, could they have found the Emerald already?
Rover's voice was adamant, “No, this cannot be it! It's not a valuable gem at all; a piece has already fallen off!”
Helios bit his lip- what they were describing did match the description of the Emerald. Still, it would be almost impossible to tell without actually seeing it. Sneaking would only get him so far; he would have to take a risk or two if he wanted to retrieve the gem. Unceremoniously, Helios trotted into the room, head held high, drawing the look of everyone in the room. Rover and two of his lieutenants sat around a heavy oak table with a flickering alcohol lamp illuminating the stone room. On the table, Helios could barely make out a massive green gem, but if it was recovered here there was little doubt of what it could be.
“Hail friends!” He shouted as Rover and his ringleaders glared at him.
“Seize him!” Rover shouted as the guards in the room pointed spears at Helios's throat.
The Pegasus calmly stood at the tip of the spears. “I'm unarmed,” Helios offered.
“We're not,” one of the armored guards droned.
Helios smiled at Rover, “Old friend, please let them know those spears will do nothing if I wished to hurt them.”
Rover nodded, “He's right.” Helios smirked with pride as the two guards backed off, trusting their leader. “What is your business here?”
“I was strolling through the mountains, taking in the beautiful landscapes when I happened to come across this excavation. I recognized your handiwork, and thought I'd pay a visit.”
Helios walked to the table, taking a drink from a stone pitcher of water, ignoring the guards as they aimed their spears at him.
“I though I told you to stay out of my mines!” Rover grumbled.
“Hmm, I swore you said I was always welcome in your mines…”
“I said never welcomed!”
Helios grinned, “Oh, easy mistake.”
The Pegasus casually inspected the Emerald on the table, and the closer inspection revealed the truth. This chipped, dingy, and jagged gem was the one he was looking for, and the dogs had no idea what it was. Helios swallowed; his steely reserve the only thing that held back the equal panic and excitement that was making his heart beat like a four-ton drum. The only outward sign of Helios' emotions was the slightest flick of his ears as he spoke.
“That's not all your found here is it?”
“That is not your business!” Rover shouted, grabbing the Emerald and hugging it to his chest defensively.
“All this digging and this is all you've found?”
Rover now looked a bit embarrassed; a Diamond dog's pride in his ability to find gems is what makes him a leader. Helios knew that saying such things to Rover was bringing him into question in front of his top men.
“It's . . .rather large-”
Helios scoffed, “Rover, this gem is garbage compared to some of the ones I've seen you unearth! Still, it may look nice on my mantle.”
“This thing?!” Rover said, “Well to bad! I found it and it's mine!”
“Really? Well then, that's sad. I was going to trade you for a few of these,” Helios hefted a sack off his saddlebag, dropping it to the table as a few milky white gems spilled out, glimmering in the dim lamplight. Rover's eyes grew so wide, Helios thought they may pop out of his head like a cartoon character.
“Are . . those…?”
“Yes, lunar onyx.” Helios explained. “Her Majesty, Princess Luna, journeys to the moon every so often. She brings back so many of these, I hardly know what to do with them!”
“Give them to me! I know what to do with them!”
“These things? You'll be able to get a few of your own once you boys start mining the moon.”
“Please! I will give you the big ugly gem!”
“And three days worth of food and water.”
“Yes, yes! That is fair!”
Helios pushed the milky white gems toward Rover, who chimed, “Get the pony his food and water!”, as he gathered up the onyx and handed the Emerald to Helios, who jammed it into his side bag promptly, trying not to show how much he wanted to leave.
“Rover, what if that is the gem we're looking for?” one of the other dogs in the room said.
“Than we will tell her where it is!” Rover said, inspecting one of the Lunar onyx. “And these gems are enough to pay for our operations thus far!”
One of the guards handed Helios a canvas sack. He peeked inside seeing a full, sloshing water skin, two loaves of dark bread, and a handful of dried corn.
“Well then, it was nice seeing you, Rover,” Helios said with a bow, “Should you ever find yourself near Canterlot feel free to visit!”
“Yes, yes pony; go away!” Rover said as he inspected the gems.
Helios didn't hesitate, backing out of the room with a flourish, trying his best to control his urge to dart out of the mine like his tail was on fire. He made his way out the front door of the mine, the gem in his saddlebag feeling heavy with it's importance. To the Diamond dogs, this greenish, dingy gem was nothing more than a piece of unknown crystal, but to Helios is was one of the most important objects in the world.
Sugarcube Corner was a beehive of activity, with more ponies in armor than Pinkie Pie could remember seeing. Her ever loyal coltfriend, Pokey, was doing his best to keep up with the constant orders. While the blue unicorn was only marginally good at baking, he always did his best to help Pinkie, giving her a playful bump as he passed her, the two sharing a wordless glance.
First, Pinkie caught a flirtatious smirk from Captain Aquilinus, one of the Princess's closest bodyguard, his sunsteel petrel glimmered in contrast to his ghostly white coat that scarcely covered an array of scars from battles past. Pinkie giggled as Aqui was nudged contemptibly by one of his lieutenants, an earth pony with a velvet coat and teardrop shaped eyes that smiled playfully. Pinkie hadn't had a chance to hang out with Rainy Days much, but she knew the mare was also close to the Princess- part of her castle detail, or was she promoted? Pinkie honestly wasn't sure.
The next was the leader of Princess Luna's detail; Pinkie recognized him by his order as much as his brilliant red mane. Sir Fulldark always ordered the same blueberry smoothie every time he came in, but this was the first time she'd seen him without Princess Luna being nearby. Captain Long Strides was also at the table, being mostly quiet, staring with disturbing, unblinking eyes. Pinkie had known him- a ranger, or a scout of some kind. He spent most of his time in the frontier, coming into Ponyville on occasion for supplies, but never stayed long. He was a slim, and quiet figure wearing a green wool hood that nearly covered his piercing eyes.
“Heya soldier ponies!” Pinkie said with a grin, “Another round of drinks as ordered!”
“Thanks Pinkie,” Rainy Days said with a sideways smile, “You know, I may be spending some time in Ponyville- care to spend a little time together?”
“Sure! Pokey and I were gonna go pick strawberries tomorrow. Do you wanna tag along?”
Rainy made a playfully pouting face and ran a hoof down Pinkie's cheek, “Aww, does Pokey have to come?”
Pinkie giggled, as she trotted off. “Sure he does, silly! He carries the basket!”
Aqualinus and Fulldark laughed, as Rainy Days sighed. “One Day Aqui . . .I'll close that deal one day . . .”
Aquilinus patted Rainy on the back, “Pinkie is smitten with that blue fellow I'm afraid; she'll be a tough nut to crack. Should have gotten with her a year ago- she was an even bigger party animal back then.”
“Reguardless, we may not have time. Helios should be back by this evening.” Long Strides said, sipping his milkshake.
“Should we be concerned? He only took three day's worth of water and he's been in the mountains for a week.”
“He taught me all I know about survival,” Long Strides said, “He stays where he is until the job is done.”
“All you know eh?” Aquilinus said with a laugh, “That should mean he could make water from sand.”
“So once we have this thing, we just load it in a chariot and fly it to Canterlot?” Rainy Days asked.
“That was the plan,” grumbled Sir Fulldark. “To many dragons in the air. They crave the gem. They likely don't know what it is, but they will desire it.”
“If we hoof it, we'll have to go through Diamond dog territory. They’re sure to give us trouble.” Rainy Days said.
“And the fastest land passage through the Gem Mountains that's safe from dragons would take us weeks to traverse.” Aquilinus said.
“What are we to do then?”
“We should wait for Helios, my friends, before we make any decisions.” Aquilinus said, “We are all soldiers, but he is a general and will have more of a strategy.”
“I don't feel right leaving Princess Celestia without her top men, especially with how the griffons have been gathering her troops on the western border.” Rainy Days said.
“Our entire infantry is on that border, and most of our airship fleet. The griffons won't have troops to invade. They're just flexing their muscle because their mages have noticed the gem is out of it's resting place.”
“What is so important about this ‘Celestial Emerald’ anyway?” Rainy Days asked. “Why do we have five thousand men here to retrieve a single crystal?”
There was a hush that settled over the soldiers so thick and ominous Rainy could almost smell it. Finally Aquilinus spoke up. “It belonged to Celestia's father, part of his royal jewels. It's of great historical and cultural significance. That's it, end of story.”
Rainy recognized the tone in Aquilinus' voice- he was reciting an official story meant to answer a question without really answering it. Rainy knew from filly school that Celestia's father, Cosmos the All-father, was one of the creators of the universe itself. Anything that belongs to him would be more than just an important artifact, it was likely an object of immeasurable power. Still, at this point, it was part of her job requirements to not be aware of such things. So, she would buy the story for now, even though everyone present knew it wasn't.
“Yes Sir,” Rainy Days said. “Helios will have a plan.”
“If not him, then Princess Luna or Veleris.” Sir Fulldark said.
Aquilinus looked surprised, “The Princess is coming here? And Count Veleris?”
“He's one of the most powerful mages in Equestria,” Fulldark said confidently, “If a little . . .eccentric. He'll be able to counter any threats that we soldiers may have trouble handling.”
“Are we expecting trouble of a magical nature?” Rainy asked.
“Likely, and in that case I'd prefer to have Veleris on our side.” Fulldark said sipping his apple juice.
“I'm not sure he is on our side” Aquilinus grumbled.
“He's obsessively loyal,” Long Strides offered.
“To Luna,” Aquilinus said with an air of disdain.
“And she will be here to handle him, Captain,” Long Strides said.
“Say what you will, Long Strides, but I don't trust Lunarians. Those in the Nocturne guard who swore allegiance to Luna-”
“How is it you trust Luna but not her guard?” Fulldark retorted.
“I don't lend trust to anyone who rejects Princess Celestia.”
Rainy smiled, this was a common argument between the commanders. Since the return of Princess Luna, many of those who would be joining Celestia's royal guard, were instead swearing fealty to the princess of the night. Many factions were lying in wait for the return of Luna. Being that Aquilinus' family had always been loyal to Celestia, and he'd grown up hearing tales of the wicked Nightmare Moon. It was difficult for him to accept ponies so quick to trust the night princess, and though he appreciated her, he was always wary of her followers.
Just then General Helios entered, the proud tan pegasus tossing his dusty mane, though it still was a brilliant milky white. His cape appeared as if it had been dragging in the mud, as it likely was.
“Stand and Salute!” Captain Aquilinus said, as all the soldiers present stood and held their hooves to their breastplate.
“As you were,” Helios said in a tired voice, the soldiers present returning to their snacks.
“General, we've prepared a war tent just outside of town,” Sir Fulldark said.
“No need for now, Sir Knight,” Helios said, cracking his neck, “I've been in the Gem Peaks for two full weeks, and we can discuss strategy while I have something sweet to eat. I don't know how those Diamond dogs bake bread, but it was tough enough I considered improvising armor out of it.”
The gathered captains let out a laugh.
“Have you secured the Gem?” Rainy Days asked.
Pinkie Pie trotted to the table grinning at Helios, setting down an egg cream soda, knowing his usual order. “Please, Pinkie my dear, tell me you've made shortcake for this weary warrior.”
“You betcha!” Pinkie said, “I'll got get some for you.”
“Thank you Pinkie. Should Pokey allow it, I would kiss you!”
Pinkie giggled, “He's awful jealous; you be careful!”
Helios chuckled, turning to all the captains present, “I have retrieved the artifact.”
There was a visual release of tension in the room as Helios sat down the gem on the table, all looking at it with wide eyes. The Celestial Emerald was a dark, opaque green. It's facets looked as if they were carved long ago with a fine skill, but the years had worn it down, and it seemed to have a few chips and scratches.
“It's . . .not what I expected,” Sir Fulldark commented.
“It's not how it looks, Sir knight, but rather, what it can do that is important.”
“Indeed general.”
Pinkie Pie happily trotted in and tossed a shortcake, dripping with blueberries and sauce before Helios, who happily took a few large bites before continuing.
“Now, as I see it we have two options: the air route, and less desirable land route.” Helios said.
Aquilinus nodded, “Indeed sir. We were just discussing that matter.”
“And I suppose your scouts came to the same conclusion I did.”
Captain Long Strides nodded. “Indeed General, the sky and the railroad will be impassable thanks to the dragons. They desire the gem and will be drawn to it.”
“Theisen's pass will take us weeks to traverse, especially an army this large.” Rainy Days said.
Helios nodded in agreement, “And, that route is also going to be impassable. I just saw a contingient of Diamond dogs, growing in number. Once they figure out why I was there, and what I took they will certainly want to take it back.”
“With all due respect general,” Sir Fulldark said, “I think our soldiers can handle a few hundred Diamond dogs.”
“I would agree with you, were it only a few hundred,” Helios grumbled, “There was never been a proper census of the dogs, as you know, but it's estimated over a million of them live in the Gem Peaks in isolated clans. When I was there, I saw Rover meeting with the heads of several clans, and commanding an expedition of thousands. In past conflicts, I've seen the Diamond dogs put together a force of several hundred thousand troops in a matter of days.”
“We must wait for re-enforcements then,” Rainy Days said.
“Good idea, but we cannot wait for long.” Helios said, “They will be coming here, en mas. And I wouldn't want to face any kind of large force in an indefensible hamlet like this one, especially with so many innocents in the line of fire.”
Sir Long Strides bit his lip, “I know of some militia posts in the frontier near here; they may have troops to spare, in all honesty they have little to do out there.”
“How many?”
“Four, maybe five hundred men, depending on how many are one duty out there.”
Helios nodded, “That's a start. Fulldark, how many men do Princess Luna and Count Veleris control?”
Fulldark sighed, “Luna is pledging one thousand men of her Nocturne Guard- fliers and linebreakers. The Count commands seventy five of his palace guard.”
“And we've marched five thousand into this valley, give or take that will mean we'll have seven thousand troops. Sir High Regard will be arriving soon with re-enforcements as well, all parade guard and apprentices but soldiers are soldiers” Helios said, nibbling at his shortcake.
“I'd prefer to have a bit more of a surplus,” Aquilinus grumbled.
“We all would friend, but we have little choice,” Helios admitted, “With the griffons amassing their armies to the west, there isn't a whole lot we can spare. Where there is a lack of horsepower, we make up for it with a surplus of brainpower. We’ll put our heads together, and figure a way to get through those mountains in the time we have.”
“If we move slowly, we could avoid the Diamond dogs,” Rainy days offered, “Send out decoy parties taking different routes, it would take some time to plan-”
Helios held up a hoof, silencing the young earth pony. “A capitol idea, Lieutenant, but we don't have time. I'll spare you the details of our situation, but it's fair to tell you if we do not return the Celestial Emerald to Canterlot Castle within a week, it will cease to matter if we make it or not. We must deliver the artifact quickly, and we must not let it fall into enemy hands. Either outcome would be unacceptable.”
The commanders all shared a worried stare; Helios never exaggerated the seriousness of a situation, and when he said something was unacceptable it was something serious.
“If only there was a way, to split the difference between the air route and the land route!” Helios said.
“I've flown the Gem Mountains dozens of times, General. It's possible to fly under the timberline where the dragons cannot reach, but at one point or another you have to fly over a ridge or a low pass.”
“And when we do, we'd be little more than a snack.”
All knew Helios was right- a group of slow moving armored pegasi would be little more than canned food, and the Celestial Emerald would wind up as dessert. The commanders were silent, all wondering how they could pull off the impossible, since at this point there was little alternative.
“Pinkie!” a voice called from the doorway, breaking the silence.
Pinkie trotted out through the kitchen doors, meeting a bluish gray mare with blonde hair and peculiar eyes. Helios was taken aback by her cross eyed expression, but she had a confidence of movement that defied her apparent handicap. The mare looked a bit worn out- her wings still spread and hair mussed from what appeared to be a long flight. She pulled a cardboard box off her back and plopped it on the floor in front of her.
“Derpy, you did it!” Pinkie said, hugging her friend, “Everybody said it would take until Monday to get my package if I ordered on Thursday!”
Derpy grinned proudly, “Since it was for a friend, I used my secret route. Well, that and the sky was full of dragons."
Helios and the other commanders were set aback, exchanging rare looks of surprise. Almost as one, the group rushed Derpy, firing one question after another.
“Are you talking about the Gem Peaks?”
“Is there really a two day route?”
“How many Diamond dogs were there?”
“Who are you to know this passage?”
Helios raised a hoof, silencing his officers, before turning to Derpy. “Young Lady, I am General Helios, commander in chief of the Equestrian military. I have an item that must be across the Gem Peaks in a few days; can you help us?”
Derpy shook her head to regain her senses after the barrage of questions, then smiled.
Helios smiled and rested his foreleg over Derpy's shoulder, “Gentlecolts, and fillies, the solution presents itself and it's all too simple. We need but to mail the gem to Canterlot.”
After a long day working, Derpy was worn thin. The mare dropped the last bundle of mail on her route inside the box, her now empty mail sack on her aching back was a refreshing sign of the weekend to come. Derpy spread her tired wings for the final flight of the weekend. She passed just over the lowest clouds, giving Rainbow Dash a polite wave as she passed the dozing pegasus. She dove down as she reached the post office, landing on the roof as a few other mail mares parted to allow her to land.
“Hi'ya, Blossomforth!” Derpy said, greeting one of her friends.
“Hey, Derpy. Got any big plans for the weekend?”
“Nothing special; just gonna help Dinky with a school project.”
“Flitter, Cloudchaser, and I were gonna go to a cookout at the orchard- sure you don't wanna come with us?”
Derpy smiled, “That sounds like fun, but I get so little time to spend with Dinky.”
“Wouldn't Carrot Top watch her?”
“She probably would, but you know, family first.”
“I understand. Well, I guess I'll see you Monday then.”
“Yeah, see you then Blossomforth.”
It had been a long time since Derpy was able to spend time having fun with friends. Between pulling extra hours to pay her bills with her second job at the moving , and trying her best to take care of her young daughter, it was a struggle to fit in any time for herself. Derpy pushed open the door to the sorting room, where half a dozen ponies were sorting mail and packages and the sound of the machines clanking and chattering drowned out any conversation from the sorters. The far end of the sorting room had a small office; the name on the milk glass door reading “Stamps, Postmaster.”
Inside Mr. Stamps sat at his desk. He was a portly earth pony with a square jaw and a shaggy mane. He coldly regarded Derpy as she entered, pushing her paycheck across the desk. Derpy smiled and inspected the check, but soon frowned.
“Mr. Stamps, wasn't I supposed to get a bonus for that extra route I did last week?”
“That'll be on your next check,” Stamps grumbled.
“But you said that last week, and I need that to get supplies for Dinky's project-”
“Hey, it'll be on your check when it's on your check,” Stamps interrupted, “If you need some extra money, we need an extra hoof in the sorting room tonight.”
“Carrot Top is dropping Dinky off at my apartment. I can't leave her waiting.”
“You must not need the money that much if your willing to leave me a mare short.”
“Please, Mr. Stamps, I need to pay my electric bill, I really need that bonus.“
“Not my problem! You're lucky I'm giving you all that overtime in the first place. I'll pay it to you when it comes due. Now, are you gonna help us in the sorting room or not?”
“I can't!”
“Yeah, says you...”
“I wouldn't lie to you.”
“Sure you wouldn't. Well, go enjoy your weekend while the girls in the sorting room pick up your slack.”
Derpy wanted to talk back; frankly she wanted to buck Stamps through the rear wall, but she needed this job so she had to take it in stride. Derpy just gave an uneasy grin and stepped out of the crowded office with her check. With her head low, she walked from the post office toward the bank, the entire time wondering how she would explain to Dinky the project she was so exited to work on may not be possible.
After a trip to the bank, Derpy walked home. Her hooves were aching and her wings were almost cramped, but she was looking forward to spending time with her daughter. The lower floor to Derpy's apartment was Screwball's joke shop, which was again vacant, as it had been for many weeks. Derpy wondered where that silly mare was; no one, not even her family had seen her in town. She was supposed to be on a buying trip to Baltimare, some kind of new chattering teeth design had caught the mare's interest and Screwball always loved being on top of joke technology. Still, she was supposed to return two weeks ago, and it concerned Derpy just a bit that Screwball would leave the shop vacant for so long. Derpy ascended the stairs and opened the door to her modest apartment, noticing with a drop in the pit of her stomach that the lights were all off, except for a few flickering oil lamps and candles set about. Dinky, as she always did, tackled her mother with a loving hug. Derpy allowed it even, though she felt a bit of pain in her tender hooves from the pressure of the embrace.
“Hi, Mommy!” Dinky said with joy.
“Hi ,Dinky,” Derpy said, nuzzling her daughter.
“Mommy! The ice cream is all melting and Aunty Carrot Top says we gotta eat it all real fast! Come on! I'd eat more, but I got a tummy ache...”
Derpy weakly laughed a bit, fighting back tears at the realization that the electricity had already been turned off. Dinky pulled her into the kitchen, where Carrot Top sat amongst three or four rapidly melting buckets of ice cream. The orange mare looked a little overwhelmed, and her spoon sat unused by a large bowl of the treat.
“Hi Derpy. I'm sorry; I called Mr. Stamps so he could tell you before you got home, but he said you weren't supposed to get personal calls.”
Derpy sighed, holding back anger. If she knew about this, she could have stopped by the power company instead of waiting until Monday.
“Carrot Top, can you stay with Dinky for just a little longer while I run to the power company?”
“I'm sorry ,Derpy, but I'm supposed to take my mom to Nurse Redheart for her appointment. She doesn't have anyone else to take her and-”
“It's all right, Carrot Top; Dinky and I will just take a walk. We had to do a little shopping anyway.”
“Yay! Shopping!” Dinky said, “Can we get stuff for the project? I'm gonna make a model of Ponyville Town hall!”
“Sure Dinky, but...we'll only have enough money for a few things...”
Dinky looked a little disappointed, but cheerfully said, “Well, if it'll help I could just do a model of something smaller- like the clock tower.”
Derpy smiled, “That'll help, Muffin. Thank you.”
Derpy and Dinky stopped by the craft store, having just enough spare bits to buy the supplies they needed for a small model. They rushed to the electric company, getting there just as the clerk was locking the door.
“Sir, sir!” Derpy said running up, “Please, I have to pay my bill- my power was shut off!”
“We're closed lady.”
“Sir, all our food is going bad, and it's supposed to get cold this weekend. Please, can you just stay open a few minutes longer?”
The clerk looked at Derpy and sighed, walking back into his office. “All right, what's your name?”
“Derpy Hooves. I live at 48 Big Yoke Way.”
The Clerk curtly flipped through his files, checking the receipts. “That account is in the name of a Ms. Screwball, and she's behind.”
“I rent the apartment upstairs; I've got cash for the payment.”
“To turn it back on, you'll have to pay the back payments and a sixty bit reconnection fee.”
Derpy bit her lip, “I only have enough for the back payments. I just had to buy some groceries.”
“Lady, without the reconnection fee I can't restore your service.”
“Please, mister, all our ice cream is melting,” Dinky said, putting a hoof on the clerk's chest. “It's making an awful mess.”
The clerk grumbled, “I'll tell you what Ms. Hooves; I'm not supposed to do this, but I'll put the reconnection fee on your next month's bill. But if you don't pay it then, I'll get in trouble too.”
Derpy smiled, “I promise I'll pay it. Thank you very, very much!”
“I'll send a man out tomorrow to turn the power back on.”
“No one can do it tonight?”
“Lady, I'm gonna have to call somepony in on the weekend for you; I gotta do that tonight! I'm sorry, but I've really done all I can do.”
“I understand, thank you.”
It was a long walk home, and Derpy hardly had the energy to look around, but in the night she could see a hundred lights in the orchard, some kind of camp, but the pegasus felt to weary to even contemplate what was going on. When she reached her apartment she had to fight the urge to take a nap halfway up the stairs. As expected, the cold night had chilled the apartment, so much so that Derpy could see a misty ribbon of her breath escape her as she walked into the dark room. The mare lit an oil lamp, casting a ghostly orange light over the room. Absent mindedly, Derpy grabbed a small space heater from one of the opening closet, replacing it as soon as she remembered there would be no way to plug it in. She instead grabbed a stack of thick blankets from the upper shelf.
In the distant kitchen, Derpy could make out what was likely a spreading pool of chocolate ice cream. It would certainly be a sticky mess come morning, but Derpy would take care of it when she awoke. Little could be done ,and her fatigue was reaching critical levels. She looked at Dinky as the little unicorn playfully danced in the dim light, laughing at her exaggerated shadow on the wall.
“Dinky, it's gonna be pretty cold tonight; you wanna come sleep in my bed so we can share the covers, like a sleepover?”
“Okay Mommy,” Dinky said, looking nervously about, “It's dark and scary anyway.”
Derpy laughed a bit, walking the little filly into her room and laying down the extra blankets on the bed. “You know, Dinky, a friend of mine told me that when your afraid, you should just laugh, and scary things will go away.”
Dinky forced herself to smile at a dancing shadow on the wall, then let out a little giggle just as Derpy moved the light, and the the offending shadow was spirited away. Dinky smiled widely, hopping energetically. “It worked Mommy!”
The pair crawled under the covers, Derpy snuggling her daughter close to her chest, feeling the tiny body shivering against her despite the layer of blankets. Derpy felt the cold in herself too. While the blankets helped, there was still a bitter cold. The mare knew that despite the discomfort, Dinky would never complain. She was such a strong little filly, so smart, so optimistic. Derpy would have taken every ounce of suffering on herself, if she could. She felt as if it was her fault, all of it. She felt as if she could have done more to make her daughter happy. As Derpy lay there with her mind racing, the physical fatigue she felt was turned into an emotional fatigue, and her eyes filled with tears, and her chest heaved with sobs.
“Mommy?” Dinky's quiet voice said, “Are you crying?”
“I-”
“Is it about the ice cream? Don't feel sad Mommy, that ice cream was old and fuzzy anyway.”
“It's not that, Muffin, I'm just . . .I'm so sorry-”
“Sorry for what?”
“Sorry it's cold. Sorry I can't be there for you. I'm sorry I'm always screwing up . . .”
Dinky just hugged her mother closer, nuzzling her neck, allowing her to cry. The little filly didn't understand why her mother was in tears, but she knew when she was sad, a hug from her mother always made it better.
“I had a good day Mommy. I got to hang out with Aunty Carrot Top, and eat lotsa' ice cream. We met that nice pony at the power company, and now I'm having a sleepover!”
Derpy didn't respond, didn't know what to say.
“And it's not really that cold; you're here to keep me warm, and I'll help keep you warm!”
The gray mare laughed to herself, feeling a bit warmer as her daughter spoke. She snuggled the young unicorn to her chest.
"Mommy, do you miss daddy too?"
"I do, honey, but he'll be home someday.”
Her lover, Doctor Whooves, was off on another one of his adventures, and Derpy knew that his missions were important. She didn’t resent him for being away, but his absence was hard to deal with sometimes. He had been gone for so long this time, that his presence was almost a memory, constantly nagging at Derpy's mind. She looked down at her daughter, now yawning and blinking sleepy eyes.
“I love you, Dinky.”
“I love you back, Mommy.”
With the rising sun came warmth again, and while there was still a chill in the air, Derpy welcomed the warm sunlight through her cloudy window. Dinky was already awake, eating a cup of yogurt in the doorway.
“Morning, Mommy! The yogurt doesn't smell yucky yet!”
Dinky could eat yogurt for every meal, though Derpy knew she could hardly fault her with how many muffins she ate every day. “That's wonderful honey, let's both have some breakfast, clean up the kitchen, and get to that school project, okay?”
“Okay, Mommy. That table's gonna be real sticky.”
“It's okay, we'll clean it together.”
Derpy helped herself to some celery sticks from the refrigerator's crisper and a pair of muffins, the last two left over from a batch made by BonBon. The rest of the food in the refrigerator was rapidly starting to take on a musty smell, and it was saturating the kitchen. Derpy knew she'd likely have to give the refrigerator a thorough cleaning as well. Still, with Dinky at her side, she could be scrubbing the sewers and she would be happy. The young filly was the light of her life, and held her together even when Derpy though she'd lose her mind. Even know, Dinky was polishing off her yogurt and gathering some rags, happily going about a task most children would complain about.
“Thanks for helping out, honey.” Derpy said.
“No problem, Mommy; we gotta take care of each other.”
There was a notably unfriendly knock at the door, a banging, then the door opened itself.
“Who's that, Mommy?”
Derpy grumbled to herself, “It's my boss...”
Mr Stamps trotted into the room, completely uncaring that he's in somepony's house. “Morning Derpy, I- phew! What stinks?”
“My power is out. The food in the fridge went bad. Mr Stamps, what are you doing in my house?”
“Well I tried to call you, but the phone doesn't work.”
“The power is out.”
Mr Stamps observed the melted ice cream and rags on the table. “Wow, this place is a mess!”
Derpy couldn't take another word, “Look, tell me what you want or get out!”
The stallion looked at Derpy as if the outburst was totally uncalled for, and shook his head. “Derpy, you know I never really liked you. So many people think your just so noble, so infallible, and you all you did to have that opinion from ponies is have a kid without a Dad.”
Derpy tried to fight back tears, “I'm in no mood for this Mr. Stamps; just let me know what you want, please, and leave me and my daughter alone.”
Mr Stamps looked at the floor, now apparently having trouble. “I have a package that needs delivering today, from Canterlot. I know you have a route only you and Cloudchaser know and she quit three weeks ago.”
“Forget it! You barge into my home, insult me, and expect me to do you a favor?!”
“I'll give you a bonus-”
“Like the last one? I'm still waiting on that. Dinky and I have plans.”
“Look, the customer paid for same-day service, and if I get one more late package, the postmaster is gonna have my job!”
“That's your fault, not mine.”
Mr. Stamps stomped in frustration, retrieving a sack from his saddlebag and tossing it on the ground, a few bits spilling out. “All right! Here's your bonus, and the bonus for this trip in cash, in advance. Just...please! I can't loose my job.”
Dinky tapped her mother on the shoulder, “Mommy, please don't let him lose his job. He's not very nice, but that doesn't mean we can't be nice to him.”
“You're right Dinky. Okay Mr. Stamps, let me find a babysitter for Dinky and I'll stop by the post office.”
“Yeah, thanks.” Mr Stamps said heading back out, “Just be careful; I heard from some soldier in town say some weird stuff is going on in those mountains.”
“No one knows my route Mr. Stamps; no one that wants to hurt me, anyway.”
“Good...I, uh, owe you one...”
“Sure.”
BonBon and Lyra were happy to babysit, despite the fact that they seemed on their way to a picnic for two. It had only taken Derpy a few moments to suit up in her flying gear and hit the skies to retrieve the package at the Canterlot post office. It was something for Pinkie Pie, no doubt some ingredients for an upcoming catering order. She was the type to always wait until the last minute before picking things up. Derpy's mountain route was a strait shot though a few low passes and some hidden caves that were only known to her, and a few Diamond dog clans that sometimes mined the area. The dogs were always grumpy, but never paid much mind to Derpy as she flew over. The mare was always fascinated with them though; their lives were so simple.
This time, however, the mines Derpy normally saw abuzz with activity, were abandoned, wooden scaffolding still standing as if was left recently. Also, a large number of dragons were hovering about, almost as many as Derpy saw during the last great migration. Still, dragons wouldn't bother her this low. Even if they wanted to reach her down here, dragons had trouble breathing at low altitudes, and couldn't fly very well through narrow passes.
It took only a few minutes to load the package at Canterlot's post office and Derpy darted for the return trip. Her route only took a few hours each way, and it was actually a fairly scenic flight, even relaxing. Her eyes adjusting to the light as she emerged from a deep tunnel, and Derpy felt a cool shadow over her as she flew. She looked up to see a small female griffon flying above her, blocking a corner of the sun.
Derpy had seen one or two griffons in her travels, but not many, being how rare they were. But Derpy could tell this one wasn't one of the more docile ones that lived around Equestria. Despite being slightly smaller than Derpy, her glimmering bronze armor and the clanking of numerous weapons told that she was a warrior. As the griffon descended closer, Derpy could make out intricate engravings on her bronze breastplate. It was a stylized griffon, with both forearms outstretched holding the sun in his right talon, and moon in his left. Derpy remembered the design form somewhere; a book Dinky had been reading and excitedly tried to show her.
“Hi!” Derpy said cheerfully. “I'm Derpy!”
The small griffon scowled down at Derpy, with her narrow, almond eyes. Derpy could make out two jagged scars over the griffon's head, and across her beak.
“Glenda.” the griffon said, introducing herself.
“Nice to meet you, Glenda!”
“Where is Gilda griffon?”
Derpy knew of Gilda, though she'd never met her personally. She delivered mail to her house, and met her husband Gregory. Still, Derpy knew she wasn't supposed to give out someone's address.
“I dunno.”
“You deliver her mail, yes?”, a slight accent creeping into the griffin's voice.
“I'm not supposed to tell where her house is.”
“I will make you!”
In a flash Glenda pulled out a long flintlock rifle, the end of the heavy barrel ending in a bell shape. Derpy knew the shape of the weapon, it was a kind of fire magic the griffons commanded, something like fireworks. The rifle boomed in the air with enough force to toss Glenda's petite body upward like a rocket but the griffon caught herself, and as the thick white smoke of the explosion cleared, Glenda saw nothing where she was expecting the see a plummeting corpse. Then, she felt something on her back, weighing her down.
“Hey, don't point that at ponies!” Derpy giggled.
“Get off me!” The griffon pulled out a long dagger and spun, trying to throw Derpy off and lash out at her at the same time, but the mare held tight on the griffon's back. Derpy didn't want to hurt Glenda, but she also had a delivery to make. She reached her hooves around and covered the griffon's eyes, immediately throwing her off.
Glenda thrashed and bucked wildly, Derpy holding on fast and still blocking her vision. “Let me go!” When it was apparent that Derpy was not going to uncover her eyes, she screeched, “If you don't let go we'll both crash!”
“I crash all the time! It's not so bad!”
The connected pair dipped low, Derpy careful to steer the griffon away from rock faces and spires, hoping for a chance to break away, but Glenda still wildly swung her knife, and Derpy knew the moment she was free she'd try to kill her.
Derpy reached down with her wings, lightly brushing them against the griffon's sides, just below her breastplate. “I hear griffons are ticklish.”
Glenda rocked and laughed loudly, suppressing rage. “Stop! Ha! No! I'll kill you!”
Derpy saw the griffon drop her knife, the plummeting weapon clanging off a passing rock face. The ,are leaned forward, pointing the griffon headfirst toward a shallow muddy river.
“Well I appreciate the company on my flight, but if you'll excuse me, I have a package to deliver!”
Derpy released her hooves over the Glenda's eyes and flew off. Glenda only caught a glimpse of the onrushing muddy river before splattering into it face first, her legs kicking in the air, and muffled, unintelligible curses coming from under the muck. The pegasus laughed as she flew off; she had dealt with bandits trying to steal the mail before (especially out here in the frontier) but had never bested a griffon or been shot at. Derpy always loved out-smarting crooks, it made her feel good to be good at what she did. Soon she would be home, and relaxing with her daughter for the rest of the weekend.
At Sugarcube Corner, just after the delivery, Derpy was swarmed by soldiers, asking her a thousand questions at once about her route. What she had she seen while flying through the mountains? How did she manage it unscathed? Honestly, Derpy was surprised to learn the military hadn't figured out the route for themselves, and wondered why a thousand armored ponies needed it in the first place.
“A griffon?” General Helios asked, “You were attacked by a griffon?”
“Yeah, she wanted to know where Gilda was. She probably wanted to steal her mail.”
Aquilinus rubbed his chin, “My dear, was this griffon wearing armor?”
“Yeah! I had loads of pictures on it.”
“Pictures of what?”
“One was a griffon hold a Moon and a Sun-”
“The Myrmidons- I'd stake my reputation on it! Mercenaries, not affiliated with the griffon government.”
“Who is Gilda?” Helios asked.
“She's a griffon who lives in the woods,” Derpy said.
“The Myrmidons used to be commanded by Gilda griffon, but she disappeared years ago.” Aquilinus added.
“Would this have anything to do with our mission?”
“Likely an internal struggle in the group,” Aquilinus said, “Probably attacked Derpy here because she thought she could lead her to Gilda's house.”
“Or they could be here to try to claim the gem for themselves,” Fulldark said, “The griffons have magicians and seers too; they must know of the gem.”
“Possible Sir Fulldark, but the matter at hand is this route. Can you map it for us, my dear?”
“I don't know how to make maps, General,” Derpy said, “It's a very hard route to fly.”
“If I could make a suggestion,” Rainy Days interjected.
“Of course Rainy.”
“Perhaps flying an army though this route wouldn't make sense. What if we keep it a secret? Send a the gem with a few of our best fliers along the secret route, and sent a diversionary force along the land route.”
Helios nodded, “I like it. The dogs know I have it, and will think I'll want to keep it near me.”
“And a small force of fliers would look like little more than a scouting party to the dogs,” Long Strides said, “But why even have a diversionary force? Why not make them come here? We could barricade this town, and by the time they're able to properly overcome our defenses, the gem will be in Canterlot."
“No, there would be to many civilians at risk. We must face the dog's army in the mountains, away from innocents.”
Helios nodded, it was a shaky plan, but the best they had. “Well my friends, we have a lot of planning and preparation to do. Luna and High Regard will be here with our re-enforcements tomorrow. When Her Majesty arrives, I want her to arrive to a well trained army with a perfect battle plan. Aquilinus, I want ten of your best fliers ready to escort the gem.”
“Yes, General. I have some in mind.”
“Rainy, ready the linebreakers. As usual, they're going to be at the head of this thing. Prepare a strategy to face the Diamond dog army in the mountains.”
“We'll be ready sir.”
“Long Strides, head to those militia outposts; recruit as many men as you can.”
“It will be done,”
“And Fulldark, have your engineers prepare a war tent for Luna and Veleris.”
“Consider it done.”
“And you- Derpy, was it?”
“Yeah?”
“If you have the time, tell me about your secret route.”
Twilight had missed the open air of the palace's observatory; she spent many hours here with the Princess during her private teaching in the ways of magic. The highest room in a mountain castle always made Twilight feel like she was on the top of the world. The white marble glimmered all around them in Celestia's sun, and Celestia herself. The Princess sat in all her majesty, sipping from a delicate teacup and turning pages in a large, musty book, telling the passages of time. Twilight wasn't sure why Princess Celestia had called her here with the promise of a 'very important lesson'. She'd been in Ponyville for two years and had a very good life for herself there, but Celestia insisted that this could only be imparted to Twilight directly. Twilight munched on another teacake, her attention on the book in front of her.
“Now, where were we?”
“Villahuava, the All Song,” Twilight pointed out.
“Yes, my grandmother. She was a primordial pony, but the only one that took a form we recognize today.”
“Didn't she sing Equestria into existence?”
Celestia smiled, “Well, yes and no. The Earth was always here in one form or another, but Villahuava sung the world into its present form. Her song so fatigued her, that she passed on, and her essence became my parents. Teria of Jest, and Cosmos, the All-father. It was their love that brought about the world as we know it, all ponies, but first Luna, myself, and my other brothers and sisters.”
“You have other siblings?”
“Yes, though they manage the movement of other celestial bodies, like my brother Tinia, who moves Jupiter, or my sister Cetheria, who moves Venus. They do not come to this land often but we communicate when we can.”
“What of your parents?”
“They were loving parents; before this age my siblings and I learned all we needed to know from them, and frolicked in this primordial land, ruling over the Ponies of generations past.”
“What happened?”
“Well, my mother, Teria, gave her corporeal form, that is, her physical body, to the earth. And when it was scattered throughout the globe, wherever it touched, trees, flowers and grass grew.”
“And your father?”
“He was so grieved by the loss of my mother, that he flew into the sky, thinking he could find her there. When he could find her nowhere in the heavens, he wept, and his tears became the stars and the galaxies. He dove back to the earth and struck it with great force, and his body became steel. The mountains, just as his wife's arms, embraced him.”
“That's so sad...”
“Yes, this book puts it so poetic and melancholy, but Luna and I were there for it. While the bards make it sound like tragedy, my parents passing on was a wonderful, loving thing; a celebration of life. Our parents are not actually dead, but now all around us. Immortals do not die, but they lose the forms we recognize and become something else.”
“Do you miss seeing your father and mother?”
Celestia smiled warmly and stood, “I see them every night, before I go to bed, embracing one another. Would you like to see them?”
Twilight was confused, but curious. “Yes, Princess.”
The observatory was an open room, the edges of the room overlooked the glorious sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the stars twinkled into life. The mountains reached into the beautiful colors of the sky, as the sun warmly cast it's final light. In the glimmering sunset, Twilight could almost make out something more, a spirit or a force, something radiating love.
“My father, is the stars, my mother is the land. Such beauty doesn't just come from rocks and stray beams of sunlight- it is their spirits and their love.”
“I've . . .never seen them. I've admired so many sunsets, even from here, and I've never seen them.”
“Indeed, few still do. Your deep magic give you an appreciation of friendship and love that normally is reserved for the artists and the poets. If you choose to look closely, you can see what most ponies will miss.”
“What of the Celestial Emerald?” Twilight asked, abruptly changing the subject. “You mentioned it in your letter asking me to come here.”
Celestia let out a long yawn, as the sun set, she grew more tired. “The Emerald yes, it belonged to my Father, it was a part of his body, It . . .is the source-”
“The source of what?”
“Of . . .” Another yawn. “It is . . .Perhaps this could wait until tomorrow, Twilight Sparkle? I seem unusually weary...”
“Are you okay?”
“Likely just allergies- the pollen makes me feel somewhat sick and weary” The Princess said, “This is why I prefer autumn to spring.”
“But the emerald!-”
“It will take time to explain, but it must wait until morning.” Celestia said, as she left the room, supported by two of her guards.
“Of course Princess, I didn't meant to push.”
“We'll continue this in the morning Twilight. Mergus, Corvus, please take me to my chambers.”
“Yes, Princess,” the twins chorused.
Twilight took a final sip of her tea and headed back to her room near the library. A few palace servants appeared to put the books and tea set away as she left the observatory, that was taking on an early-spring chill as the night grew. As she walked through one of the cavernous hallways, Twilight heard a voice she recognized. It was the strong, noble voice of one of the princess's most trusted soldiers- General Helios. He was talking with Sir High Regard, and another voice she didn't recognize.
“ . . .Her majesty has to sleep, the strain of moving the sun makes her need it.”
“She's never been this weak, High Regard.”
“What of Luna?”
“She is in better condition than Celestia, but still her power is reduced.”
Twilight was now even more curious; she'd noticed that the Princess needed guards to carry her, and that wasn't something she'd seen before. And this new voice, it was obviously a servant of Luna, but the voice was eerie, like something from a ghost story.
“We're jumping to conclusions, I think there is nothing wrong,”
“You’re a fool High Regard.”
“Do not speak such a way to your betters!”
“Should I think you better than I, High Regard, it would be sad day,”
Twilight laughed, and peeked past the cracked door, seeing High Regard stifling a smile at the insult, and the back of Helios' head, though his snowy white mane all she could make out.
“Still, when she determines it appropriate to tell us what's wrong, she will let us know.”
“My Mistress Luna has no secrets from me.”
Twilight shivered at that voice again, unable to make out who it was. It was definitely someone working with Luna. Was he with the Nocturne Guard?
“Count, Princess Luna must have let you in on something.”
“No, not a thing she- Someone is watching.”
Twilight squinted, were they talking about her? Before Twilight could contemplate further, she saw the unknown pony, in the form of just an eye looking through the door. Twilight backed away as she felt a burning feeling at the back of her neck. Without warning, she felt ice water in her veins, and felt the beating of her heart, cold and mechanical, like a dead piece of meat. Twilight shrieked in surprise as she fell off her hooves.
“Veleris! Stop! ” , rang a sudden, boisterous shout.
Twilight saw Helios over her, and the old stallion embraced her closely. “Don't worry, Twilight, your unharmed.”
A troop of spear-wielding palace guard trotted down the hallway looking about for a threat. “Is everything alright, General? We heard a scream.”
“It's fine Pavo,” Helios said, “Just Veleris being paranoid again.”
Twilight looked into the room at Count Valeris. For what he just did to her he didn't seem threatening at all. The stallion must be a unicorn in order to have entered Twilight’s mind, but his horn was covered by a cerulean, jeweled turban. He was tall and slender, his face young, but looked as though it had weathered many years of agony. It was obvious that the Count wasn’t from around Canterlot. His face showed no regard for Twilight, and if he felt sorry about whatever he just put her through it didn't show on her face. Twilight wasn't quite sure, but she thought she made out a pair of long fangs in the Count's mouth as he spoke, looking like something a pony would wear for Nightmare Night.
“That wasn't pleasant at all,” she mumbled.
“Twilight, Valeris uses a kind of magic that induces fear. He doesn't always have an exact control over it.”
“You’re not physically harmed- would you like me to remove the memory?” Valeris offered, as the jewel on his turban glowed a ghostly white.
“No! Just . . .stay away,” Twilight said. She was still recovering, but still unwilling to let that pony inside her mind again.
“Count Valeris, this is Princess Celestia's magic student. She was probably just curious.”
“A pleasure to meet you, Twilight. I hope you'll excuse my paranoia, but I've been spied on many times before, and I thought you may mean me harm.”
“I pity anypony who tries to harm you,” Twilight said with an uneasy grin.
“If you are the same Twilight Sparkle I've heard of, you’ve battled Nightmare Moon. We have that in common.”
“Wait, how could you have-“
“Never mind that now, Twilight,” Helios said, waving a hoof to dismiss the conversation. “We're having kind of private sit down; would you mind?”
“Of course, sorry to interrupt.”
Twilight continued toward her room, feeling her legs a little shaky under her, but she tried to shake off the confusion of the evening. Princess Luna came into view after rounding a corner in the corridor, flanked by two of her Nocturne guard. “Twilight Sparkle, good evening to you.”
Twilight bowed to Princess Luna as she passed. “Your Majesty.”
“Have you seen my sister? I wanted to speak with her before her evening rest,”
“The twins took her back to her Chambers.”
“Were they helping her walk?”
“Yes, they were . . .is Celestia okay?”
Luna sighed, “She is fine Twilight Sparkle, though there is something important she will have to discuss with you come morning. Sleep well.”
As the Princess walked off, Twilight heard a strange clanking sound from Luna's back, and noticed the Princess was wearing an armored saddle and crupper.
‘Princess Luna is wearing armor? What is going on that she needed armor?’, Twilight thought. The mare went to her suite a bit uneasy, not so much for the incident of induced fear she just experienced, but for the strange way everyone around her was acting. Not a heightened security but almost a lack of it, many soldiers had left the palace for some reason. Troops were being sent to outposts outside Canterlot. Normally there were no closed doors in this palace, few secrets and no fear. Now, it seemed everyone was on edge, and what's worse is no pony seemed to know why. Twilight caught sight of her brother outside her door, and she galloped close for a hug. Shining Armor was wearing his full ceremonial armor, except his helmet that was on the floor next to him.
“Hey Twily! Sorry I haven't caught up with since you were in town. Been uh, a bit busy.”
“Seems everypony is, Big Brother. What's going on?” Twilight asked, letting go after a long embrace.
The pair entered the sleeping chambers, as the lights magically came to life on the walls. “It's . . .a couple of things, Sis. First, the griffons are making threats, and amassing troops on the border. They do this every once in awhile, just to flex their muscle, but this time it's different- it's more than we've seen in a long time. I'm leading a force there which is most of our infantry and our entire airship fleet, just to make sure they don't attack.”
“Isn't that what Helios does?”
“Normally, but he's got another mission, and the Princess wants me to keep a magical shield on the border as long as I can.”
“Why would the griffons be doing this now? Don't we have a peace treaty with them?”
“We do, and our troops outnumber theirs ten to one. They'd be fools to attack, but the Princess . . .she's sick or weak, or something . . .she won't tell us. The griffons can tell, and they may just be hoping for an easy attack on Canterlot.”
“What if they do attack?”
Shining Armor smiled his dashing smile and gave his sister a playful dutch rub, “No worries sis, they're just gonna sit on the border and shout insults at us. That's all they ever do! They’re aggressive, but not fools, and their leaders respect the treaty.”
“Just be safe, Shining Armor,”
“I will.”
Twilight held back a question, biting her lip, then had to courage to ask. “Brother, do you think the Princess' sickness has anything to do with the Celestial Emerald?”
Shining Armor thought, “As far as I know the Celestial Emerald is just a piece of jewelry that Celestia's father wore . . .it was a necklace I think.”
The princess had said it was the source of something, but Shining Armor seemed to know nothing about it.
“That's all it is? Jewelry?”
“As far as I know, Twily, but I'm just a grunt.” Shining Armor said with a laugh, “Say, I don't have to leave for the border for another day. What do you say, you, Cadance, and I have lunch tomorrow?”
“I'd love that! But don't you have a lot to do?”
“Not so much that I can't spend time with my two favorite mares! Mess hall about two?”
“That'll do, see you then.”
Twilight yawned as the shades in her room opened, and she saw Princess Celestia sitting at the foot of her bed, two stalwart guards at either side.
“P-princess?” Twilight said, groggy from sleep.
“Leave us,” Celestia told her guards, and the two obediently left the room. “I'm sorry to bother you, but as it's been, lately I've been growing more and more weak. This has affected my sister less, because I am the eldest, and closest to our father. I must convey to you something to you regarding the Emerald, before I become fatigued again.”
“Yes princess.”
“It is for your knowledge only Twilight Sparkle; I don't wish everypony to know these things just yet, so please, be discrete.”
This surprised Twilight; normally there were no secrets in the kingdom, except for military matters.
“I just wish not to worry anypony,”
“Of course Princess, I'll keep it to myself.”
The Princess nodded satisfied, “Twilight, as you know, all unicorns and pegasus unicorns have a natural magical ability, but my sister and I also have a divine power. Our ability to move the sun, moon, and . . . extend our lives. The source of this is the Celestial Emerald.”
“Without it you'll be-”
“Mortal.” Princess Celestia said, “Well, something less than mortal, I would be . . .dead.”
“No Princess, no . . .”
“Twilight, I would be doing a disservice to you if I was less than honest. I care for you, and I don't want you to be afraid, but I want you also to know what is at stake,”
“I'll gather the Elements of Harmony! With them we can-”
“Not this time Twilight,” Celestia said, with a slight air a disappointment. “The Divine Magic is the Element you bear; without the gem being in place the Elements of Harmony will not be complete.”
“So the Celestial Emerald has been stolen?”
“It's impossible to be sure, but I know where it rests, and if it's been removed from the resting place of my father, it must be returned to me or my connection to it will be lost completely. I'll be sending General Helios to retrieve it, keep it safe, and return it to me.”
Celestia touched the metal plate on her chest. “This petryal was forged by my brother, Tinus, from the steel that was my father's body; it is known as sunsteel. If the gem is set into this petryal, then my connection will be restored.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“Because this evening, you will set out with Princess Luna on a mission to help return it safely here. You will have no more than seven days. After that I cannot guarantee I can raise the sun. If that happens, you must -” The princess coughed, and pitched forward, having trouble catching her breath.
“Your Majesty, are you okay?!”
Celestia smiled weakly, “I'm fine . . .that really was allergies.”
Twilight laughed a bit, but couldn't hide her concern. Celestia was so powerful, normally it seemed she had no weakness, no limit to her power. She walked with grace and power, but now, she sat at the foot of Twilight's bed, her head at the end of a shaky neck, her knees almost shaking. She was growing weaker, every day.
“You must . . .take the gem for yourself, and use it's power to evacuate.”
“Leave Equestria?”
“It is being prepared by Luna, and Veleris. A plan has been made.”
“But -”
“Twilight, the Celestial Emerald is one of the most powerful objects in this world, and our enemies know that. The Griffons know I am growing weaker, soon the dragons will know this too. If any of them gain control of it ,they will hold the power, and all our kind with fall. Equestria is at great risk, and while I have every confidence in my men, there must be a plan in case the worse happens. There is no more I can say now. I'm sorry to place such a burden on you Twilight Sparkle, but you are more important than you know.”
“Your Majesty, I won't let something like that happen to you,”
“Twilight, the people, the land, they are more important than Luna or I.”
“No! For all you've done for us, we serve you. Whatever your contingency plan is, I will not need it. We will return the Emerald here, no matter what!”
“Your courage empowers me, Twilight. Now, I must get to work. I will send you with Luna's caravan.”
“But...my brother. He and I were going to have lunch together,”
“Luna will not be at the caravan until dusk. I must . . .rest.”
“Will you be okay here?”
“There is no threat that can reach me here. Do not fear. Just do as you must do. I truly love you as a daughter, my student. Please do not fear . . .all will be well one way or another.”
Unlike most kids growing up, Twilight loved eating in the Mess hall with her brother. The elevated officer's table was almost like stage, but was usually crowded with interesting ponies that Twilight could learn from. Most of them knew her by name, and any time she could spend with her brother was wonderful. The food was always a bit mundane, but it was military food. The taste of rationed hay and oats was like home cooking to her, as she spent her childhood sitting at her big brother's side as he talked strategy. Now, her favorite foalsitter, Cadance, sat with her husband, a pleasant change.
Still, what was normally was a rousing conversation and playful jokes was a quiet and reserved meal. The rows of tables had quiet soldiers slogging through their meals, the only sound was the occasional mutter or clank of silverware. Shining Armor's face was sallow, the light from the previous night was faded.
“You talked to the princess this morning didn't you?” Twilight asked.
“Yes, but she asked me not to say what it was about,” Shining Armor said, with a heavy sigh.
“I think I'm not supposed to tell you about the same thing,” Twilight said, “Don't worry, Big Brother. She doesn’t want us to be afraid.”
“I've never seen her so . . . tired, so weary. It's like she's . . .”
Cadance held her husband close. “Shining, don't worry.”
“I just wish she knew how much I wanted to be there for her,” Shining Armor said, “She's like a mother to all of us.”
“I told her, we would win, no matter what,” Twilight said.
“She's right honey,” Cadance agreed, “And we've never failed her. Just like you've never failed me.”
Shining Armor smiled, “You’re right, love, as always.” He admitted. “So...I hear you’re riding with Valeris. He's scary Twi, but don't let it fool you. He's actually very kind; if there's trouble, stay near him and you'll be safe.”
“I will, Big Brother.”
Twilight was sorry to leave, every trip to Canterlot was like a tour of her childhood. She gathered her things, (and a few books she wanted to finish reading from the archives) and joined the Princess's caravan near the gates of Canterlot. They'd be taking the long way around the mountains, and be back in Ponyville in a few days.
Twilight had no idea that in two short years the Nocturne guard would grow like it did. It started with a division of Celestia's personal guard that was assigned or volunteered, but from every corner of Equestria came sailors, farmers and others who held out hope of Luna's return, quickly forming a large loyal army of night soldiers who swore fealty to Princess Luna at the rise of the moon. While many of the traditionalists in the military distrusted those who were loyal to Luna, the guard had proved themselves time and again allies of Equestria and proud citizens. Celestia was actually joyful to see her sister was forgiven by the ponies of the realm.
Whirly, one of the captains of the Nocturne guard, stood on a rocky platform just above the thousand troops, directing them into a formation, pointing and shouting at the units. “Vengence, get the linebreakers to the front! Skirmishers to the sides! We march midnight to midday, and bed down at midnight. Step softly as the Princess and Count Veleris sleep!”
Luna and Celestia spoke near the center of a formation of soldiers. Twilight took this moment to better notice Luna's partial armor plate and crowned helmet, which dangled off her back unworn for now. Her jet black armor glimmered like marble, seeming to be made of a solid piece of steel, smooth and flowing as a liquid.
“Are you sure, dear sister, that you wish to do this?” Celestia asked.
“You are a Leader who loves peace, though you are capable of fighting fiercely when you must. I am the one who better speaks the language of war,” Luna admitted, “Please sister, this fight will require all our greatest warriors,”
“If only we could do this without anypony being hurt, or any other creature.”
Luna smiled at her sister warmly, “Such a big heart; you extend your mercy and love even to our enemies!”
Celestia blushed a bit, “Yes, perhaps that is a flaw.”
“No, it is a strength sister. And know if there is a way to solve this without bloodshed, I will do my best to find it.”
“Thank you sister. Be careful and know that I will always be with you,”
“I love you too, sister,” Luna replied, with a bow, “See you when I return.”
Count Valeris was flanked by number of mares who were gathered around and equipment wagon. The females must have been from the same land as Veleris, for they were all slender and varying shades of purple, blue, and grey. Instead of turbans, the mares wore beaded face veils made of sheer silk. Valeris was sipping from a heavy leather canteen as he passed by Twilight. The young mare bumped the Count as her nervous stumbling brought her a bit to close, knocking the canteen to the dirt. Twilight looked down to see a few bright red drops of liquid spill from the canteen, which was quickly picked up by Veleris.
“I despise Canterlot tap water,” Veleris commented casually, as he continued toward his wagon where his servants were loading supplies. Twilight joined Luna as the brown mare on the hilltop started calling out to the formation leader by name, as they tightened their formations and prepared to move out.
“Move out! All Cohorts, let's go!” Whirly said as she took to her wings and flew to the head of the marching army. Shofar blowers sounded their horns twice, signaling the army to begin its long march. Luna and Veleris were at the center of the formation, surrounded by the supply wagons. Twilight realized she'd never marched with a formation before, and wasn't sure where she was supposed to be.
“Hey Twilight!” One of the guards with bushy brown eyebrows shouted.
“Oh! Adamant!” Twilight said recognizing the guard.
“You’re at the center!” Adamant shouted back, “This is just the parade; once we're further out the formations will be a little more relaxed.”
“Thanks Adamant!” Twilight said joining Valeris and Luna at the center of the march.
Around her, the fully armored formations trotted in tight unison, the beat of their hoofsteps like the beat of a massive drum. Twilight could swear she felt the ground shake as they walked. It was hard to resist marching in unison with soldiers, and even those pulling the wagons soon were matching to the beat. The sea of glistening armor looked like an unstoppable force, and Twilight felt very confident with the army surrounding her.
“I am always humbled to know there are so many who wish to serve me,” Luna said with a pleased smile.
“With these soldiers here, I don't see we'll have any trouble returning the Emerald to Canterlot.” Twilight said.
“We will face many enemies”
“Are you okay to lead us, Princess? I mean, I know Celestia wants us not to discuss it but . . .”
“Twilight, Celestia is the Eldest of our siblings, I am the youngest. I am furthest from our father, and the absence of the Emerald will effect me last. There is a new moon the next two nights, so it will give me time.”
“I promised Princess Celestia I wouldn't fail her, and I mean that your Majesty. You’ve done so much for all of us, and so has she. Whatever it takes, we will not fail.”
Luna smiled, casting a quick glance to Veleris, who unbelievably grinned back at her, a subtle dignified smile. “We have every confidence in you Twilight Sparkle, meaning Valeris and I of course.”
As the army exited Canterlot, citizens lined the roads, all of them waving flags and tossing flowers in support of the soldiers and the Princess. Twilight wondered if any of them knew what was truly at stake. Still, they loved their Princess, and Luna humbly smiled, almost embarrassed by the praise. Twilight promised herself, that when she returned to Canterlot, she would do it victoriously.
The next morning, the parade formation had relaxed. While the columns were still ranked, the march army knew they were on safe roads, so they walked with a casual pace. Six ponies carried a large palanquin on their backs, the sides covered in velvet shades. The army stepped lightly as Princess Luna slept inside. Twilight walked next to two of the night guards she'd met before, Westwood and Adamant, who were caretakers of the castle's secret archives. Very little information was forbidden in Equestria, and most of it what was hidden Twilight was privy too, but the arcane knowledge Westwood and Adamant guarded was the kind that could drive a pony mad, if they weren't ready for it. Still, they were friends of Twilight, and she often spent time with them in the library during her time in Canterlot.
“Where is Count Veleris?” Twilight asked.
Westwood smiled, “He's in the palanquin, with the Princess.”
“She's . . .with him?”
Adamant laughed, “It's not like that . . or I don't think it is,... What I mean is they're both nocturnal. And Veleris always wants to be close to her when she hibernates.”
“I've heard of Veleris before, but I've never met him,” Twilight said, “I thought he was just an eccentric Count from Saddle Arabia, but I had no idea how close he was to the princess. And there's some other things that just don't make sense . . .”
“Like his apparent longevity?” Westwood observed, “I saw his face on a stone carving from the second age,”
“And rumors that his entourage occasional bleed themselves and that his supply wagon is filled with refrigerated blood?” Adamant added.
“Well . . .I didn't know any of that,” Twilight said her eyes wide.
“You must have been thinking of his ability to manipulate fear and anguish,” Westwood said.
“That's less interesting, but true. He has a strange kind of magic that he can barely control. It can take the bravest, most fearless pony on the planet and turn them into a cowering foal.”
“I once saw him turn away this assassin,” Adamant began. “The assassin snuck past all of Luna's other guards, but Veleris Just looked at the guy, and he ran away screaming. He was so desperate to get away, he scratched at the palace's outer door until his hooves bled. This guy was no coward, he was willing to die, and Veleris stopped him dead in his tracks without so much as making his turban glow.”
“So what is he exactly?”
“Still an unknown,” Adamant said, “But Princess Luna trusts him, and while he's strange he's not a bad guy.”
“And he's an intriguing mystery; the apparent immortality, the blood hoarding, the fact he shares a bedroom with the princess . . . well that last one is probably none of my business.” The two guards laughed at themselves.
“Well, at least he's on our side,” Twilight said with a grin. “I hope it will be enough.”
“Don't worry, Twilight, you made you promise to the Princess and so did we. None of us plan to fail, none of us.”
Twilight gazed at the road ahead, knowing Ponyville would be coming up soon. It was strange how much she'd come to think of Ponyville as home, and how excited she was to return there and see her friends. She hoped they would understand the battle to come, understand how desperate it was to be. She knew though that her friends would always be there for her, no matter what.
For the past week, Rainbow Dash made a point to fly over the outer orchard, where the soldiers of the Royal Guard set up their massive camp. She did this for a few reasons; firstly she wanted to keep the weather clear, as she was supportive of the military and she assumed wearing armor in the rain would suck. Also, despite the fact that none of them appeared to be with the Wonderbolts, perhaps some of them knew one, and showing off for them couldn't hurt.
Perhaps less important than the other reasons, was the fact that she was fascinated with the military. Rainbow herself wasn't interested in enlisting- those soldiers got up way too early in the morning for her liking. But she had always liked how hundreds of them could march or fly in perfect formation, while wielding weapons and wearing full armor. It was like watching a parade, or a tightly choreographed dance. And while she'd never admit it to her friends, so many of the soldiers were pleasing on the eyes. She often wondered if Celestia purposely picked stallions she thought were good looking for her guard. Rarity often popped by for what Rainbow imagined was the same reason, though the unicorn kept coming up with excuses for why she was stopping by Sweet Apple Acre’s back orchard. As Dash dipped low among the columns of marching soldiers and canvas tents, she recognized Derpy and her ever-present daughter, Dinky, standing among ten other pegasi in full armor. Rainbow landed next to her friend, as Derpy stretched her wings and cracked her neck.
“Hey’a Derp. You get drafted?” Rainbow asked jokingly.
Derpy laughed, “Naw, I'm just gonna be flying a little mission for the military. It's kind of an important package, so they're gonna send me with an escort.”
Rainbow inspected the five pegasus stallions standing around Derpy- they were standard royal guard flyers, with light armor and identical tails, manes, and white coats. While they were a touch more lithe than others Rainbow had seen, they were all still soldiers. They all had impressive muscles, that Rainbow knew also added to their weight.
“These are your escorts, huh? How are they gonna keep up with you?”
“Hey now, lady! We're Captain Aquilinus' most trusted couriers. We're his fastest fliers.”
“I'm not saying you’re not fast by soldier standards, but Derpy is a Cloudsdale Mare. And she's not wearing fifty pounds of armor.”
“Rainbow Dash!” Aquilinus said, walking alongside the mare and lifting a hoof to kiss it. “It's been too long. How's the weather business?”
“Mostly clear with chances of rain overnight.”
Aquilinus laughed, “Well you’re a talented flier; what do you think of my boys here?”
“Well, what they lack in ability they make up in enthusiasm.”
One of the pegasi stepped forward, “Look here lady- ”
“Firebrand, show some respect. This is the element bearer of Loyalty.”
“Yes captain. Sorry captain.”
“Alright, Derpy, try a quick flight around the camp. Everyone else, follow her in a wedge formation. Don't worry about a thing Derpy; fly like you always do and they'll follow you, okay?”
“Just like I always do?”
Aquilinus nodded, “Yep, don't worry about them. They'll keep close.”
Derpy complied, taking off into the air fast enough to leave a ring of whirling dust around her. Her escorts took a few seconds just to hover into the air and follow, already hopelessly behind Derpy as she did a quick lap around the camp and landed back where Aquilinus stood. Aquilinus laughed, and whistled to call his soldiers back. They landed, confused at how Derpy could have made a lap of the entire camp without them.
“I'm sorry, captain,” Derpy said, looking at the ground, “I flew too fast.”
Dinky hugged her mother, “It's okay Mommy! You tried your best.”
“Derpy, you didn't do anything wrong. My men are supposed to be keeping up with you .”
“Sir, we're just wearing too much equipment,” Firebrand offered.
“Fine then, strip everything. Armor, weapons, everything.” The soldiers complied, unbuckling the swords and equipment on their belts, their helmets and breastplates.
“The tails, too.”
After an embarrassed pause, the five stallions removed the false tails and piled them with the rest of their equipment. Rainbow Dash had trouble not laughing at the waggling little stumps the soldiers had now, instead of their normally regal blue tails.
After all this, Derpy still out-ran them easily on the second run. The soldiers frustratedly stomped as they landed.
“I'm sorry, I did it again,” Derpy said, head down.
“Derpy, you’re going to need to fly fast. We just need faster escorts for you is all.”
“Don’t worry, you’re a real good flier, Firebrand,” Dinky said nuzzling the soldier's side for reassurance.
“Derpy, is there anyone else in town that can keep up with you on this route?”
“Rainbow Dash can!” Derpy offered.
“You can?” Aquilinus said, “Rainbow, Derpy here needs an escort for this mission- ”
“I wouldn't mind. Where are we going?”
“Through the Gem Peaks.”
Rainbow grinned widely, “That's AWESOME ! Derpy would never show me her secret route before.”
“Well, it's kind of an emergency now.”
General Helios strode forward from a formation, having a muted conversation with Rainy Days. He noticed the soldiers lacking in armor and tails and snickered to himself.
“Strange choice of uniform, gentlemen,” Helios joked, the men having a laugh at their own expense.
“My fliers are a bit too bulky to keep with the the mail,” Aquilinus admitted, “But Rainbow Dash here has volunteered to fly along with her.”
Rainbow Dash gazed on General Helios as the stallion glanced in her direction, marveling at his expressive blue eyes beneath a strong brow. His long white mane blew in the wind like ribbons and his strong jaw lifted as he gave a charming half smile. Rainbow realized her knees were shaking- this was by far one of the most handsome stallions she'd ever seen.
“Well, didn't you win the best young flier a few years ago?” Helios said with a deep, throaty voice.
“Yeah,” Rainbow said, her voice drawn out and dreamy.
“Impressive flying there,” Helios said, “Or so I hear. I don't get up to Cloudsdale as much as I'd like to.”
Rainbow searched her mind for something else to say, words that would make the stallion fall instantly in love with her, or perhaps just help him think of her more than a babbling idiot.
“Yeah,” she finally managed to say.
“Well, you’re quite the conversationalist,” Helios joked.
“Heheheee...yeah,” Rainbow said, giggling to herself and finally falling on her side.
Helios squinted and leaned to Aquilinus, “Twilight was right, all the ponies in this town are crazy.”
Aquilinus laughed, “Don't worry about it, General, she's just a little star struck.”
“Well, I suppose. We'll need a few more fliers. Ask if Rainbow knows anyone that can keep up with her and Derpy when she's lucid again. I have two old friends from Cloudsdale who may be willing to help.”
“Yes, General.”
Helios stepped over to Rainbow Dash, looking down at her, “Well, nice meeting you Ms. Dash; hope to see you again.”
“Yeah,” Rainbow Dash said with a giggle as Helios flew off to other business.
“Ms. Dash? Are you okay?” Dinky said, poking the mare.
“Wasn't he amazing?”
“I probably shouldn't mention he's married” Rainy days laughed.
“He's married to his work,” Aquilius said, helping Dash up. “And old enough to be your father.”
“I don't care- he's awesome!”
“So, Dash, do you know any fliers around here that could keep up with you?”
“Well...there's plenty of good fliers in town, but none I'd trust with an escort mission. I have someone in mind who could keep up, and pretty willing to bust heads if she needs to. She's not really to social type though. Frankly, I'd only wanna bother her if this is really, really important.”
Aquilinus and Rainy shared a brief look. “Rainbow Dash, I'm sure you'll all be briefed soon enough, but trust me when I say this mission is important: he fate of all is at stake. For now, you'll have to trust me., If your friend can help us, please bring her here.”
Rainbow Dash didn't know what was going on, but knew Aquilinus would never say such things if this wasn't a truly important situation. It was odd how no one was able to give her specifics just yet, and it concerned her just a bit, since even the military didn't have many secrets. Still, she only trusted one flier when it came to matters of life and death.
“I'll go get her, just...try and not judge her until you know her, okay?” Dash said before flying off.
Aquilinus furrowed his brow, curious what that could mean, but figured he'd know when he met this pony. There were indeed a number of oddballs in this town- upon first impression Aquilinus thought Pinkie Pie was a blithering idiot, but later realized that she was merely eccentric, and was quite helpful and trustworthy.
“Captain, I have a question.” Rainy asked.
“Yes, Rainy?”
The mare tapped a hoof on her chin, “How old is General Helios, exactly?”
Aquilinus paused a moment, actually unsure, “I honestly...don't know. My father served under him. And my grandfather knew him.”
“That would mean he's gotta be like...ninety.”
“That sounds about right.”
“Than how is it he looks younger than you?”
At that moment General Helios trotted past, inspecting a clipboard held by one of his lieutenants.
“Of course General,” Rainy said, trying to hide that she was confused as ever.
After a solid week of traveling with Princess Luna's army, Twilight was more ready for a shower and a rest than she ever had been. While traveling with an army was very reassuring, spending most of the day walking and keeping pace with the seasoned soldiers made her hooves ache. Not to mention that every time they came along a river or a pond, she had to wait in line to take a bath. Four days ago she'd stopped trying (as many of the soldiers had) and felt more grimey than she ever had. Twilight found herself wondering how all these soldiers could do this in full armor and equipment.
However, the experience had given her a chance to get to know Princess Luna better. She was always so much more approachable than Celestia: more casual and friendly, though she had a darker edge than her sister. Luna had a warrior's instinct, and was prone to anger at perceived injustice. She would not tolerate anyone trying to hurt her people, and would strike back. Twilight didn't learn much more about Valeris on the trip; the Count was very quiet and generally kept to himself. Twilight and he shared only a few words, all business. He was never rude, just quiet and very personal. This evening at dusk, Whirly Willows asked Twilight to summon the Princess, as they were getting close to the Orchard where General Helios and his men were stationed. Twilight approached the palanquin and motioned for the carriers to set down the large violet wagon, and pushed her head into the sleeping chamber.
“Princess, I'm sorry to wake you but- “
Twilight paused, eyes wide, at what she saw. Suddenly she wished she had announced her presence before opening the flap. Before Twilight's eyes was one of the most unusual things she'd ever caught the Princess doing. In front of the Princess sat Count Valeris, his cerulean turban removed and his inky black mane tumbling over his shoulders like a flowing river of liquid darkness. Luna sat just behind him, calmly and tenderly using her magic to comb Valeris' long mane with an ornate brush. The Count seemed unashamed at being seen by Twilight, and Luna calmly continued brushing as she spoke.
“But what, Twilight?”
The plum colored mare was a bit taken aback by Valeris, with his soft mane out he was darkly handsome. Luna and he had some kind of bizarre relationship, but Twilight shook her head, knowing it wasn't important now. If Luna wanted Twilight to know, she would tell her.
“We're going to be at the Celestial Guard's camp in about an hour, your majesty.”
“Thank you Twilight, you are excused.”
Twilight left the palanquin as the carriers took it back on their shoulders and continued along. It was bizarre to see the Princess being so intimate with anypony. Twilight's ears twitched at the sound of distant brass and drum music.
“What the hay...”
Whirly Willows flew to a high point of a nearby tree. “It's Sir High Regard, coming from the east! With...a band?”
Princess Luna and Count Valeris emerged from the Palanquin, ears twitching at the odd sound as a full brass band and drum corps marched toward Luna's troops, complete with a color guard carrying flowing banners and flags. Sir High Regard proudly marched with the showy formation as they played a rousing march. When he reached the Princess, he removed his helmet with a flourish and bowed.
“My Princess, I brought the finest escort I could offer- the Royal Equestrian Army marching band and color guard.”
“High Regard, I thought my sister was that clear you were to pledge soldiers,” Luna said angrily.
“Your majesty, the Celestial Emerald is an important artifact, that is going to be returned to it's rightful place. This is a time to celebrate!”
“High Regard, my Mistress does not need doted upon,” Valeris said with thinly veiled frustration, “We need every soldier we can. Now, where is the troops you command?”
“In Canterlot, where they belong.”
Luna stomped a hoof and scowled, “Sir Knight, thou hast an annoying habit and interpreting what you’re ordered to do when my orders require no interpretation! II told you to bring soldiers, not a band. You have failed me Sir Knight, and were this another age, you'd be expected to fall on your sword!”
With that, Luna stormed off, High Regard still looking as if he had no idea what he did wrong. “What vexes the Princess?”
“We need every sword we can to get through the valleys, and you brought a circus act,” Valeris growled.
Applejack, always industrious, had Big Mac pull a cart full of baked goods- apple pies, apple fritters, and other treats to the soldiers. Apple Bloom helped take orders, leaping about cheerfully among the resting stallions and mares. Helios allowed himself a break to munch on an apple fritter, sitting next to the wagon.
“Applejack, my dear, at the risk of bringing down Sweet Cream’s wrath, I must say this is the best apple fritter I’ve ever had.”
Applejack grinned, preparing an order for an awaiting soldier. “Aw shucks, General! Just something I threw together. Alright, apple pie and two bottles of juice- that'll be five bits.” The jubilant soldier pulled a five bit piece from his saddlebag and held it in his hoof. He paused for a moment, glancing at the coin, then over to General Helios. He held the coin up next to Helios, squinting at him and then back at the coin.
“Something troubling you soldier?” Helios asked.
“Nothing General, it's just- ”
“Just what? I'm not shy, out with it.”
The soldier laughed to himself at the absurdity of it, “It's just, I've never noticed, but you look just like the pony on this coin!”
Helios laughed to himself, “Do I? You realize the five bit piece was designed over three hundred years ago?”
“Of course sir. But it even has that nick on your ear-”
“Sargent, give the lady her bit.”
“Of course sir.”
Applejack inspected to coin as the Sergeant handed it over, “Ya know, General, he's right. This does look a lot like you.”
Helios just grinned and shrugged, “The world if full of mysteries.”
Just as those words were spoken, a massive griffon seemed to plummet from the sky, knocking over an armor rack, loudly spilling unworn helmets, petreyals, and cruppers across the field. The griffon rolled to his feet and talons, skidding as he righted himself.
The griffon was easily three times the size of a normal griffon, his talons and legs heavily muscled, but his midsection ringed in a belt of fat. His chubby face seeming to have a near-constant air of bafflement. He wore no breastplate or helmet, but a pair of gauntlets on his wrist, grieves on his shins, and a leather vest that formed some sort of saddle on his back. Several canvas bags, presumably full of weapons, rested just between his massive wings. He pointed with one of his massive talons, directly at Derpy, where she sat with Dinky, munching on a muffin.
“You! Silly google-face!” The massive griffon said in a deep, heavily accented voice, “You dip my sister in the mud!”
Helios smiled at Applejack, “See? Now there's another mystery.”
The griffon rubbed his chin, Equestrian apparently not a language he knew well.
“But that is not reason for I coming,” He stammered, “I come to ask same question- where is the fugitive, Gilda?”
By then, an entire cohort of ponies wielding spears and swords had surrounded the griffon, and were ready at Helios' word to attack. Aquilinus trotted toward them, holding up a hoof.
“Hold on, I don't think he's here to start trouble.”
“I know not you use this word...trouble?” The griffon asked.
“You’re not here to fight us,” Aquilinus offered. “After all, it would be foolish to face this many ponies.”
The griffon looked around, and nodded, “Yes, this would not be smart.”
Helios leaned to Aquilinus, speaking softly. “Is he a Myrmidon?”
“I'd bet he is, and looking for Gilda.”
Helios nodded. “What will he do if he finds her?”
Aquilinus thought, then nodded. “If a group like the Myrmidons are looking for someone they call a fugitive, they’re out to kill her.”
Helios sighed, “Get rid of him then, we can't have an Equestrian citizen, even a griffon, be attacked. Try to be diplomatic though- we do have a treaty with the griffons.”
Aquilinus smiled his handsome smile and trotted toward the griffon. “Firstly, what is your name? I am Captain Aquilinus.”
“I am called Gad. Small name, big griffon,” Gad said, banging his massive chest.
“If we are somehow harboring a fugitive, than I suggest you contact our leaders to begin proper extradition proceedings.”
Gad opened his beak, pausing with a confused look on his face, “You use too many big words, make stupid for me.”
Aquilinus laughed. Gad obviously knew he wasn't the smartest griffon around. “Why don't you ask the Princesses to send the fugitive to you?”
“Not her business!” Gad roared, “Tell me where Gilda is!”
“I am sworn to protect Equestria. If she is a citizen, I will protect her.”
“You do not know Gilda! She is not even nice griffon!”
“Makes no difference,” Aquilinus said.
“Than I will fight you for where Gilda is!” The titanic griffon said, “You win, I go away. You lose, you tell me where Gilda is!”
Aquilinus swallowed hard, knowing griffons spoke the language of combat better than any other. But this griffon looked strong enough to tear him in half, like a piece of day old bread. Still, Aquilinus had fought against worse odds, even if he couldn't remember when.
“Fair enough,” Aquilinus said, motioning for one his lieutenants to bring him his helmet. “What are the conditions of the duel?”
“To the Death!”
“Gad, my good griffon, if you win and kill me, I won't be able to tell you where Gilda is.”
Gad got that confused look again, as if his mind were working at half-speed, “Yes, this is correct...perhaps then we only fight to first to bleed from chest?”
Aquilinus liked those odds better; he would certainly be faster than the mountain of a griffon, and getting close enough to cut him with a wing or a sword would be easier. And if he lost, he'd only suffer a wound.
“Agreed.”
“What weapons we use?”
The white stallion affixed his helmet as his squire handed him a spear, and belted a sword belt to his hip. He made out at least two massive weapons strapped to Gad's back,wrapped in leather and canvas, among a number of smaller bundles. It was impossible to tell, but they were likely large clubs, or perhaps axes. Either way, the weapons were going to be virtually useless against Aquilinus' agility.
“Whatever you carry. I will use gladius and pike.”
Gad laughed heartily, the fat around his midsection jiggling comically. “Really?! I use what I carry? You are silly pony!” Gad said. “Give me a one moment to prepare.”
At that, Gad set down one of the bundles and unwrapped it, revealing a finely machined six-barrel Gatling gun, affixing an ammo belt from a backpack to the side and unfolding a hand crank. The griffon lifted what must have been an incredibly heavy weapon to his waist, cradling it like it didn't weigh an ounce. Aquilinus narrowed his eyes at the enormous weapon, something that could effectively be used against an army, and he was aiming it directly at Aquilinus' face.
“If I were you, pony, I would run!”
Aquilinus smiled his sly smile. When facing impossible odds, being cocky never hurt. “If you were me, you'd be good looking.”
Gad took a second to get the insult, but then a scowl crossed his beak. He roared and turned the crank on the rifle, and it roared as it belched fire and metal. Dirt and grass were tossed into the air as bullets struck around Aquilinus, who immediately took to flight, both to keep the bullets from hitting spectators, and because he knew it would be much harder for the griffon to aim the weapon upwards.
Aquilinus dipped and dove, grasping the spear firmly in his mouth as he flew, hearing bullets zing past him as he flew. He felt a solid impact as one of the bullets flattened against the sunsteel of his armor, a piece of the shattered lead round cutting his wing painfully as his flew by. The white stallion wondered how much ammo the weapon could possibly carry, but he knew at one point a bullet would strike his wing, stomach or perhaps even his exposed face. Gad laughed menacingly, the only sound over the maddening drumbeat and blinding flash of the weapon.
The Captain spun and hurled his spear at the base of the mechanical gun, jamming the barrels in place. The frustrated warrior didn't think to simply pull out the offending spear, but only tried to turn the crank harder, further jamming the spear into the workings.
Seeing his chance, the pegasus dove at the griffon, wings extended for a quick strike, but the large weapon blocked any chance at a torso shot. Instead Aquilinus flicked out his wing with practiced precision, cutting the ammo belt with the sharpness of the wing's edge. Gad fiddled with the weapon a bit, trying to unjam it so it could be reloaded. Finally frustration got to him, and he simply threw it aside, the weapon crashing into Applejacks cart.
“Hey now! Y'all’er gonna pay for those!”
“Damage is collateral little pony,” Gad yelled, pulling a second canvas wrap from his back, “Do not cry for milk spilled out!”
Aquilinus drew his sword and charged, not wanting to see what was inside that second bundle. With speed uncharacteristic for someone so large, Gad backhanded the pony across the face, in the process, cutting his talon on the pegasus' sword. Aquilinus rolled backwards in the dirt, feeling his nose, where a trickle of blood ran. In turn, Gad inspected his sliced talon, thick blood dripping from it.
“You did say blood from the torso right?”
Gad nodded, unwrapping his second bundle, revealing a long, hand-held cannon. “Yes. You did say...I could use what weapon I carry?” Gad asked, flicking a flint on the rear of the cannon, lighting it.
The cannon was small for a cannon but large for anything that a single soldier could carry, Aquilinus recognized it as one often used on the deck of griffon airships- it was well capable of splintering the armored hull of an enemy ship. Even if the cannon missed, it could hit a tent, a building, or strike the ground in a crowd. Aquilinus steeled himself for what must be done, and as the fuse burned, he charged the griffon, looking directly into his beady eyes. Gad, ever confused, had no idea why, with a lit cannon pointed at him, Aquilinus ran straight toward it. With a leap, Aquilinus landed on the end of the cannon, pushing the heavy end into the dirt. Gad's large face showed a bit of worry as he glanced at the cannon, the barrel pointing into the dirt.
“We, now both go boom.”
“Indeed,” Aquilinus replied.
A shattering explosion tossed both soldiers back, dirt and grass flying high into the air, a burst of smoke, fire and debris obscuring the results of the battle. Helios and Applejack felt the hot shock wave almost knocking them backwards. Helios immediately darted forward, into the smoke, and found Aquilinus laying in a heap, his helmet having been completely blown off. His mane was singed, but no other injuries. Pieces of the iron and wood of the cannon were strewn all about.
“Are you okay?” Helios shouted, “Captain! Are you hurt?”
Aquilinus held his head, “I can't hear a thing for now, General, but assuming you’re asking me if I'm okay, than the answer is yes, aside from a splitting headache.”
“The griffon is alive!” Rainy Days called from the center of a nearby crater. “He's wounded.”
Aquilinus stood, stumbling toward the griffon; the fight was still on. Gad stood, stumbling back and forth, turning to face Aquilinus with a sizable battle axe at his side. Aquilinus wasn't looking forward to going hand-to-hand against the massive griffon, but had little choice. Before the final moments of the duel could come to fruition, Derpy pointed to Gad's feathered chest.
“Mister griffon, you’ve got a big splinter.”
Gad looked down curiously, and indeed a splinter of wood from the explosion, no longer than a toothpick, stuck in Gad's flesh. He reached up to pull the offending piece of wood from his chest with a wince, a small drop of blood leaking from the tiny puncture.
“Is not bad injury,” Gad observed.
Aquilinus grinned, “Very well then, good fight! I win.”
“How you win?” Gad asked.
“You bled, from the chest,” Aquilinus said, “But there is no shame in it, you fought very well.”
Gad grumbled and threw his axe to the ground, “Darn it to Hades! You are right.” The warrior retrieved his machine gun from the wreckage of Applejacks cart, re-wrapping it, and flinging it across his back.
“I am sorry for the breaking of your food chariot,” Gad grumbled. “Still ponies, it is not the last you see of Myrmidons. We will find Gilda, and if you try to get in way? We will break you.”
With that, Gad took off with his incredibly heavy load, swaying and diving, obviously shaken by the explosion. Helios caught Aquilinus as he fell suddenly, laying him to the ground.
“You’re not okay at all Soldier,” Helios said.
“Just a number of bruises, and a mind-shattering amount of pain,” The pegasus admitted, “Still, if he would have been carrying a full load of powder, we'd both be dead.”
“How did you know he wasn't?”
Aquilinus grinned, “No matter how strong he is, a fully loaded cannon of that size would have flew out of his hands if he tried to fire it.”
Helios laughed, “That's the dumbest thing I've ever seen you do, but then again I'm not around you much.”
As always, the Everfree forest was thick, too thick for Rainbow to fly with any speed. The ground was a murky mix of mud and moss that stuck to the pegasus' hooves as she tried to walk. She often wondered why her friend insisted on living in such a place, where there were no roads, no stores, and often no sun. The hut was built from parts of the forest, wood, mud, and ferns fashioned in a thatch roof. If Rainbow hadn't been here before, she knew it would be near impossible to find. As Rainbow approached the front door, a lithe but muscular griffon threw aside the animal hide covering the door and notched an arrow in a massive longbow, aiming it at Rainbow.
“Hold it right there!” The griffon said in a voice too effeminate to be anywhere near intimidating.
“Gregory! It's me!” Rainbow said, shrinking back a bit.
“Oh! I'm so sorry,” Gregory said, letting the tension out of the longbow.
Rainbow had been at this hut numerous times, and never had seen Gregory Griffon wielding anything more lethal than a butter knife. The thin, green eyed griffon wore a crude leather quiver on his back and a leather strap on his left talon to soften the snap of the bowstring on his wrist. The bow was long, and made from unpolished wood that still had bark on it in some places. The arrow was tipped with a bone arrowhead, polished and carved to what appeared to be incredible sharpness.
“What's with the bow Greg?” Rainbow asked.
“Oh this? Just a little something I use for hunting.”
“Expecting trouble?”
Gregory smiled, “Just been a bit more wild than usual out here.”
“I'm here to see your wife.”
“Come on in.”
Rainbow Dash trotted slowly into the hut, it wasn't anything special. Rainbow assumed it was similar to all griffon dwellings, with only a few rope hammocks and a cozy nest like structure in one corner. The center of the room was a fire pit, with a cast iron cauldron over it, greasy with the remains of cooking.
“What did you mean ‘it's more wild out here’?”
Gregory didn't answer, running to his wife's side, a griffon just slightly taller and bulkier than him whose yellow eyes narrowed when she saw Rainbow Dash.
“Well, if it isn’t the flip flop. Done being lame?”
“Gilda, I need your help. I need one of the best fliers and best fighters on my side for an important mission.”
Gilda paused, she seemed to be in the middle of weaving something. Rainbow couldn't tell, but at this point it looked like it could be a basket.
“What kind of mission?”
“World in the balance kind of stuff.”
Gilda smiled, “Do I get to crack some heads?”
“It'll probably get pretty hairy, if that's what you’re asking.”
Gilda looked over at Gregory, who had resumed sitting by the door. “Hey, sissy boy! What's the deal with you?”
Gregory sighed, “Honey, Glenda's been spotted, and you-know-who can't be far behind.”
“I ain't worried about them,” Gilda grumbled.
“Gilda is something wrong? Rainbow asked.
“Just some butt heads I used to know, starting trouble. No biggie, nothing I can't handle.”
“Gilda, you know Godric is dangerous, he-”
“Shut it Gregory!”
The thin griffon slumped, not responding. Rainbow had known that Gilda was always a little verbally abusive to her husband, but never quite like this. Something was worrying the griffon.
“Gilda if you need help-”
“Than I'd ask for it! Look, Dash, I know something's up. I’ve seen military marching around, and I feel...something is wrong with how things work. Griffons stand by friends, and you know that you’re my friend and I'll come when you call. That's all there is to it.”
Rainbow nodded, knowing it was true. Griffons picked their friends very carefully, mainly because there was no degrees of friendship. You were either not their friend, and not worth their time, or you were your steadfast ally. Of course, griffons also had enemies, Rainbow knew, but never for long. Either peace was made, or blood was spilled. Few things ever went unresolved with griffons.
“I appreciate it Gilda, this is really important.”
“I'm coming too,” Gregory said, defiantly, “I promise that through any kind of weather I'd stand with you, and I meant it.”
“No, stay here, Gregory. It's safer here.”
“Please, Gilda, I- “
“I made the same promise Gregory, and you’re not a fighter! I am. You'll be safe here.”
“All right, but if you need me, Gilda, you know where I am.”
“I'll keep in touch. Now, tell me what you need from me Dash.”
The crowd at the Lucky Horseshoe Casino sat surrounded by the haze of cheap cigars in the dimly lit dinner theater. Provocatively dressed waitresses sold cheap shoestring fries and spaghetti to casino patrons taking breaks from gambling their bits away. Trixie watched over the scene from her suite which overlooked the casino and dinner theater. A nicer room would likely have a view overlooking the crystal towers of the city, but Trixie wanted to be near her audience. Sure, it wasn't the most luxurious hotel in Las Pegasus, but she had a lucrative contract that guaranteed her lots of bits, a meal allowance, and all the smoothies she could drink. Her suite was once an office, remodeled into a room. The decorating was a bit anarchistic, with garish yellow shag carpet, striped wallpaper in a clashing teal, and lime green furniture covered in cigarette burns (despite the fact Trixie didn't smoke). It wasn't a mansion, but very comfortable compared to sleeping in a wagon on a bed of straw. The unicorn combed out her hair and gazed at herself in the mirror, grinning sideways.
“My Trixie, you are truly the most beautiful creature in all of Equestria,” she said to her reflection.
Trixie got all of her luxuries for just one show a night, two on Saturday. She almost felt as if she were stealing! Tonight after her show, she'd have her dinner at the casino's restaurant and play a few hands of poker, perhaps have a few drinks. It was an easy life for her here, being paid to do what she loved. Trixie knew this wasn't the end of it either; dozens of other ponies have had humble starts at places like the Lucky Horseshoe. Soon, Trixie would be moving up to the Golden Stable or Canterlot Gardens, where her audience would grow and her suite wouldn't have an unidentifiable stain in the carpet near the door. There was a knock at the door, and Trixie sighed.
“Yes?”
“It's Seth.”
Trixie opened the door with her horn, a yellow stallion with red hair standing behind it, grinning at her with a cocky smile. The casino was small enough that the pit boss, Seth, often handled the booking of shows and the managing of talent. Trixie appreciated the work he did, but the barely concealed crush he had on her was sometimes annoying. Though Trixie did enjoy how it made him easier to manipulate.
“Hey'a Trix. Great show down there!” Seth said placing a leg across Trixie's shoulder.
“Seth, what did we say about touching?”
Seth removed the offending limb, “Sorry babe, hehe...did you have dinner yet?”
“I was just about to, why?”
“Well ya know that contest the big wigs were having? 'Win a date with a showmare'?”
“Trixie is familiar. What does it have to do with me?”
“Well, somepony won and they chose a date with you.”
“The Great and Powerful Trixie is no showmare...”
“I know, I know. But the rules say the winner can choose anypony they want, and she chose you.”
Trixie smiled at herself in the mirror and batted her eyelashes, “Well, it isn't as if I blame them. Still, I will be far to busy tonight.”
“C'mon Trixie. I know it's short notice, but this griffon is the demanding type- she said she wanted to have dinner with you and nobody else.”
Trixie raised and eyebrow, “A griffon you say? Well, well, well, this may be interesting. Did she give her name?”
“Didn't catch it. Started with a 'G', I think...”
“That hardly narrows it down, Seth.”
“Well, I dunno. Look, I'll give you the meal free. That is, it won't come off your meal allowance.”
Trixie finished brushing her long white hair and grinned, “Very well, Seth. I'd hate to disappoint a fan. What's the special tonight?”
“Roasted marrow I think” Seth said, “Eh, Trix...be careful with this griffon. She seems the shifty type.”
Trixie only smiled as she sauntered past “Oh don't worry, I can handle griffons.”
This deep in the mines, Diamond dogs navigated by their sense of smell alone. But the old tribal elder, to whom Rover answered to without question, was nearly scent-blind in his old age, so an oil lantern lit their way. The lanterns were used only sparingly, as lamp oil was a rare commodity in the wastelands and high mountains. If a mining operation ran out of standard, they would be forced to use wood alcohol in the lamps, which burned more violently.
Rover was dreading the elder's visit; the mine was producing nothing but a few low-grade rock crystals and that large, grimy gem he couldn't identify. If not for trading it for the exceptionally rare Lunar sapphires, the expedition would've been a total loss. The elder had asked Rover why he was mining in an area where the surveys had proven there was nothing, but Rover hadn't told him of the mysterious figure who came to him. They extended an offer of power and wealth, if only he could retrieve an artifact of superb value. The elder was of the old guard, all he cared about was the short-term gain of gems, didn't see the bigger picture. Rover knew that the Diamond dogs needed treaties, alliances, powerful people on their side, and in the end, that would lead to more gems, and more power. Still, he had to appease the old Mongrel, and if he wanted to see the mysterious negotiator, he was happy oblige. Though Rover admitted, if Mongrel wasn't flanked by his guards, he would likely had done his people a favor and smash his head in with a pick.
“Rover, why are we this deep in your mines?” Mongrel growled, his voice like the sound of a pick being drug along a stone floor.
“You asked who's idea this mine was. I will introduce you to her.”
“Why do you bother with others? What we do is not their business.”
“You will understand when you meet her.”
“Rover, this mine is worthless! Whoever gave you advice should be pulling a cart for the rest of their life, then fed to the timberwolves.”
Rover ignored the shaggy old dog's ramblings. Once Mongrel met with her, he would understand. The Diamond dogs emerged into a high-ceilinged chamber with openings near the ceiling, allowing sunlight inside to a small degree. More light was provided by pools of flaming liquid, natural gas wells funneled through water would burn like massive torches. Such constructions were rarely used except in large natural caverns that needed a lot of light.
“Your men dug all this out? For what reason?!” Mongrel grumbled
“She asked.”
“My palace is not even this large!” Mongrel said. “Such a waste of time and labor...”
As the two reached the rear of the throne room, a figure cast in shadow sat against the rear wall in a square alcove. Beyond the shadows, Mongrel's eyes could make out the outline of a pony, but couldn't really see any features.
“Who is this old used up fuddy-duddy?” A shrill female voice said from the throne.
“This is Mongrel, a high elder,” Rover said.
There was a noted pause as the pony leaned back in the ornate throne. “Why is he important?”
Rover explained, “He is the elder- the leader of the Diamond dogs of this area.”
“He can give orders that can contradict yours?” The pony said.
“Pony! You have no authority here, and what I say, Rover must do!”
“What if he doesn't feel like it?”
Mongrel growled, “Then he will be tied to a post and beaten!”
“Rover, do you appreciate the way he is talking to you?”
Rover gulped, knowing he was expected to answer. “I don't like Mongrel much, but it is my duty to follow him long as far he is alive.”
“Oh, well I can see that,” The pony's shrill, sing-song voice said. “I guess we'll have to kill him.”
Mongrol growled, “Who are you?! How dare you sow such dissent!”
“Rover, why don't you do it? You don't even like him.”
“But-”
“He is in between you and more riches than you could possibly imagine. He wishes to hold you back. I see no reason for him to be alive.”
Rover bit his lip, now surrounded by the four guards that had followed Mongrel here. He raised his paws obsequiously but mentally looked around for something that would work as a weapon. Diamond dogs despised war, seeing them as a waste of resources, but Rover had fought his shares of battles, both against rival clans and griffon raiders. He spotted a small pile of tools nearby, including an axe handle, a small chisel, and a heavy length of chain. If these guard were to to try to take him, Rover would fight back. Still, he hoped Mongrel would see that he didn't have a choice.
“You're such a stick in the mud! I'll do it.” The pony said, shaking her head.
“Rover, you bring this other into your mine and let her lead you to waste time and labor! I'll see you flogged on the wheel for this! And as for you pony, I demand you leave now! You have no place in these mines!”
Rover heard an ominous sound. A whistling, growing louder, like a distant bomb being dropped...
“Brave words for a dead dog.”
Mongrel stepped forward, “I'm not dead yet!”
The pony held out a comically large pocket watch, “Well lookie there, my watch is ten seconds fast!”
“What are-”
Mongrels final words were cut short as a massive player piano fell somewhere from the top of the cavern dropped directly onto him, crashing impossibly loud, dust and splinters of the black lacquered wood flying everywhere. The four guards were speechless, seeing their leader killed in the most bizarre way they could imagine.
“She killed Mongrel! Eh...somehow.” One of the guards stammered, “Kill her!”
As the four guards pointed their spears away from Rover, he dove and rolled toward the pile of tools, picking up the long length of chain, swinging it above his head and throwing it around the legs of the nearest dog and pulling his feet out from under him. The heavy dog smashed face first into the stone floor. Rover whirled the chain in a circle, unwrapping the chain to spin it above his head. The other guards spun, seeing Rover.
“Traitor!” one shouted, foolishly charging with his spear forward.
Rover stood, flat-footed, whirling the chain until the dog had gotten almost close enough to strike, then brought the chain down unexpectedly on the dog's shoulder, the satisfying crack of a broken collarbone ringing off the roof of the cave. It wasn't a blow that would kill, but would make it impossible to fight back. The next guard was a bit smarter, choosing to throw his spear from a distance. The long iron shaft flew strait, but Rover grabbed it out of the air. He spun to maintain the spear's momentum and threw it back to it's stunned owner, hitting him in the leg. The fourth guard took a step back, holding the spearhead between him and Rover.
“Make your move,”Rover hissed.
The guard dropped his spear, and held his open hands forward in surrender. “Hail the new elder!” He said obsequiously.
Rover looked to the pony on the throne, her silhouette nodded. “Go and gather together all the dogs he ruled over,” she said, “Arm them, armor them, and prepare them for war. We must retrieve the Emerald, and with it I can get you more treasure than you could dream. Your people will share in it, every one of them will live like kings and queens. And you, Rover, will be like a god.”
Rainbow Dash walked with Gilda toward the command tent, where the newly arrived army of Princess Luna was finally marching into the valley with a massive brass band.
Gilda scoffed, “A band? You ponies don't now squat about war.”
Rainbow laughed, “Yeah, well, we like to do things with style.”
The griffon laughed and bumped Rainbow, “Hey, I do everything with style. You've never see my armor- had an engraver totally bling it out.”
Rainbow Dash laughed, as the pair reached the command tent. Count Veleris, Rainy Days, and Helios were talking with Derpy about the route, Luna still being asleep this time of day. The entire table looked up at Gilda's entrance.
“Rainbow,” Helios greeted. “This is your...friend?”
Rainbow clammed up, grinning stupidly; Gilda filled the silence.“Yeah, I'm a griffon, get over it. Suppose you never seen one,”
“Well, one of my captains is sleeping off the last encounter we had with a griffon, just yesterday. This griffon was looking for someone named Gilda.”
Gilda's face twitched, “I'm Gilda, but that's a pretty common griffon name.”
“Is it?” Helios asked.
“Look, he's probably just somebody with a grudge. He's gone now, okay? I'm just here to help.”
“Very well, I wouldn't turn down help in this situation. You're somewhat slender for a griffon- I assume you're a fast flier. We need some escorts that can keep up with Derpy, here.”
“Nice to meet you!” Derpy said with a grin.
“You know how to fly?” Gilda asked. “Or am I gonna have to hold your hoof the whole time?”
Dinky trotted forward bravely, “My mommy is the third best flier in Ponyville!”
Gilda sneered at the little filly, “Oh yeah, short stuff?”
“Yeah!” Dinky shot back.
Helios grinned, “Perhaps, Derpy, it would be a good idea if you, Gilda, and Rainbow took a flight or two together to get used to each others flying styles.”
Gilda grinned sideways at Derpy, “I'll try not to leave you rolling in a mud puddle, Bubbles.”
Derpy grinned back, “See if you can catch me!”
Without delay, Derpy shot into the air, the wind from her takeoff kicking up a cloud of dust. Gilda nudged Rainbow, the pair joining in the pursuit. Derpy looked over her shoulder, smiling back, flying with all her speed. Derpy's fastest wasn't anywhere near Rainbow and Gilda's fastest, and soon the two were pulling close. Gilda reached forward to grab Derpy's ankle, but the gray mare disappeared from view, the pair soon finding that Derpy was flying away, strait up and waving at Gilda playfully.
“How'd she climb so fast?” Gilda asked, Rainbow not answering. “Dash! Get your head in the game!”
Rainbow shook her head, “Sorry G, it's just...the General-”
“What about him?!”
“I mean, he's dreamy.”
Gilda rolled her eyes, “Dash, not now; we've gotta save face here!”
Rainbow nodded, climbing after Derpy, easily catching up. But every time she tried to close her arms around the mare, she slipped away, zipping left and right with a superior agility. The weatherpony and the griffon tried surrounding her, splitting up, even shouting distractions, but everywhere they turned, Derpy was twirling and giggling the opposite direction.
“Gah! Dash, did you know she could fly like this?”
“No way! I mean she's a good flier, but I never thought she could outrun me.”
“Everypony wants to steal the mail,” Derpy explained, corkscrewing over their heads, “I learned how to dodge pretty well.”
To the observers on the ground, the chase looked like nothing but a trio of contrails snaking across every corner of the cloudy sky. Every soldier gazed at the sight with reverence and amazement. Derpy felt the constant closeness of hooves and talons, and knew the two were too fast and resourceful to avoid forever. Finally both Gilda and Rainbow captured Derpy simultaneously, pinning her between them.
“Ya got me!” Derpy said with a grin.
“You sure can fly,” Gilda admitted, releasing the mailmare's leg. “Your kid was right.”
Helios ascended toward the trio, his own strong wings beating slowly, he smiled his sideways smile.
Trixie normally preferred to wear her cloak, but in Las Pegasus, she was often annoyed by fans if she wore the same outfit she wore on stage. To avoid the fans and their pestering, she invested in a bit of formal wear: a purple bejeweled saddle and pair of crystal shoes. Trixie shied away from such gaudy clothing but the magician knew she looked good in whatever she wore.
The restaurant of the Lucky Horseshoe was little more than a roped off area of the casino floor with tables and a buffet. Food could be ordered here, but most of the fare was mushy and bland tourist feed. Today the restaurant was empty except for the hostess and a few members of the wait staff. They stood about with nothing to do, which was rare during the dinner rush hours. Trixie enjoyed being waited on, and even if the food was mediocre, the price was always right.
The mare scanned for table twenty-three where her “date” for the evening would be seated. She quickly found the small two-seater table, only a few feet from the buffet but still out on it's own. As promised, a griffon sat there, two talons folded in front of her. It wasn't the griffon Trixie was expecting, but one that was a shade larger, with fur and feathers slightly darker. She was shapely and well-combed, her eyes a brilliant emerald. She wore leather armor bracers on her talons that seemed more ornamental than functional. Around her neck was a leather necklace decorated with small bones, and a round smooth stone. The griffon turned to Trixie as she approached and smiled, the feathers on her head hanging like a flowing mane, giving a playful wink.
“Talk about eye candy,” Trixie breathed to herself. The blue mare was no fillyfooler, or at least she didn't consider herself one, but she would never turn away a good time. By the look in this shapely griffon's eyes, Trixie was in for one.
“Evening,” Trixie greeted. “I, as you know, am the Great and Powerful Trixie.”
“Grizelda of the Boine, Daughter of Guraan.” The griffon's voice was a bit deep for a female, but in a sultry seductive way.
Trixie bent and tenderly kissed the griffon's talon. “A pleasure.”
“You know nothing of pleasure. Not yet.”
Trixie shivered a bit, “Well, aren't we forward.”
“Life is short,” Grizelda said simply.
“All of your kind seem very...assertive.”
“It is our way,” Grizelda droned. “Though, I know you have already met one of our kind. A particularly saucy griffon; Gilda was her name. She is not my match for beauty, and shall we say creativity in coupling, but I should want to see her again. Perhaps you know her whereabouts?”
“Of course. Trixie has made her company a number of times. Nothing, however, is free.”
“Really?” Grizelda said, “And a night and morning with me is enough to secure this information?”
Trixie giggled absently, “Indeed.”
Suddenly, the seductive, grinning griffon's face dropped into a more menacing look. Grizelda's beak twisted into a frown, and her eyes bent angrily. Trixie could swear they were glowing with a dim unsettling light.
“Already you lie to me,” Her voice said, now twisted and echoing with a menacing ambiance.
Trixie puzzled over the rapid mood swing, as a waitress approached with Grizelda's meal on a covered platter. There was a thick odor of cooked meat as Grizelda opened the platter and took a tearing bite of a large drumstick.
“They don't serve meat here,” Trixie said, quickly placing her hoof over her mouth to fight back the building urge to vomit.
“They're doing a lot of things I ask of them,” Grizelda mumbled around a beakful of the meat.
“You're a Soul Mage,” Trixie said realizing, “You rigged the contest.”
Grizelda gave an evil grin, holding up the stone from around her neck. “Yes, indeed. The soul stone is a rare thing, forming in the gizzards of only one in one-hundred griffons, and only one in one-hundred learn to use them. Most of the old ways are lost forever.”
The mage pointed up to the balcony above the Casino where Seth and a large part of the staff were standing, faces blank. “My mind magic does not allow me to probe the inside of your mind, Trixie. Your magic skill is basic, but strong. However your friends, they are totally subject to my will. Should I wish them to leap from that balcony and fall to their deaths, I am perfectly capable.”
Trixie scowled, “Really? And I suppose you think I care?”
“Your heart is not stone. You're not sentimental; no, you'd never be accused of that. But you wish no harm on the innocent. I can see that on your soul. Tell me where Gilda is or all of the ponies here will die.”
“Trixie does not respond to threats! And if you wish to harm anyone, especially my meal ticket, you'll have one hell of a beating coming your way.”
Grizelda scoffed, “Very well, I will demonstrate.”
The stone around Grizelda's neck glowed an eerie shade of greenish-blue, and Seth stood on the balcony, his face still impassive as he leaped off. Trixie quickly pulled the large Persian rug from under the tables and puffed it up to catch Seth like a large cushion. The showpony kicked her seat aside and stood, her horn glowing in warning.
“Well, well, well, seems Trixie has a challenge on her hands,” Trixie grinned, “Bring it on.”
Before the griffon could stand, the drumstick in her hand turned into a bouquet of flowers. She looking at it quizzically, not noticing a swirling black cloud above her head. A small bolt of lighting struck her, sending her skidding across the floor into a row of slot machines, a small smoldering spot on her chest. Grizelda stood, the bolt barely phasing her, but a second drove her even further back, through the line of slots and into roulette table, chips scattering around her.
“Had enough?” Trixie asked, “Release those ponies and be spared Trixie's wrath.”
Grizelda brushed the smoldering burns on her chest, giggling to herself. Without a word, she stood on all fours, letting out a massive roar that soon became a mist, then a blue and white column of flame that engulfed Trixie. As the flames faded the mare could again be seen, encased in a bubble of magical energy, not a hair on her mane singed despite the furniture and floor around her being blackened hulks.
“Flame? Please, Trixie has mastered flame!”
The blue unicorn levitated a half-burned cigar from a nearby ashtray, lifting it into her mouth, puffing on it before blowing back into it and launching a baseball-sized fireball at Grizelda. The griffon held up her talons, the leather grieves glowed and blocked the fireball like a shield. Trixie now fired a flurry of the fireballs, a salvo of flaming spheres that struck and exploded on and around Grizelda, who blocked as the blasts came near her, just singeing her fur.
“Enough special effects!” Grizelda shouted, “You can tell me what I want to know or I will destroy you!”
Trixie was fearful behind her confident grin; she knew her opponent was strong. The griffon's soul stone's magic was much like a unicorn's horn but with less focus. If a unicorn's magic was a pair of tweezers than ta griffon's magic was more like a sledge hammer. Trixie knew her shield barely held last time, and Grizelda seemed to be able to shrug off Trixie's best attacks, which were actually not designed for combat. All the things Trixie knew about combat magic could likely be written on a napkin.
Grizelda stepped forward and tore the soul stone from around her neck, balling it in a fist and slamming it into the floor. A massive shock wave rippled the floor like a stone in a pond, floor boards flying at Trixie like missiles, slamming all around her and splintering as if they were throne by a tornado. Trixie had a split second to cover herself. Even with her force shield, the shock wave tossed her like a leaf, crashing into a card table and scattering the cards all about. As she mentally checked herself for injuries, another shock wave struck her. Unidentified debris battered her from every angle, before she skidded across the hardwood of a dance floor.
Trixie stood on wobbling legs, knowing that another shock wave would soon strike her, before getting an ingenious idea. She used her horn to grab the soul stone from Grizelda's grip and send it skipping across the floor.
“Ha! Let's see you fight without that!”
Grizelda sighed, before pulling a small flintlock pistol from under her leather gauntlet and firing it at the braggart. Trixie was injured, bleeding from a number of wounds, but still smiled smugly as she caught the bullet in her teeth with the help of her magic, spitting it to the floor.
“Seriously, the old 'catch the bullet' trick is simple for a magician of my magnitude. What else you g-”
Her last sentence was cut short as the griffon brutally slammed a fist into her jaw. She attempted to cover herself, but a flurry of blows further battered her wounded form. Instinctively, the unicorn turned her magic on almost every loose object in the room. Slot machines, chairs, and ashtrays began battering Grizelda, who was knocked back time and again by the avalanche of furniture. The griffon held her hand forward, the soul stone sliding back into her palm, and then slipped the necklace back around her neck.
Trixie staggered to her feet, and focused her magic, knowing she didn't have a lot left. She knew she had broken bones, knew she was bleeding, now knowing she was fighting for her life. Grizelda held both talons forward, a swell of energy forming in front of her. Trixie shouted, releasing all her remaining power in one tremendous blast, the bright blue beam almost striking Grizelda before she clapped her talons together, sending her own enormous shock wave from her palms.
The two forces of magic collided, and for a moment, a split second, there was an eerie silence. For that brief moment in time everything in the cluttered casino seemed weightless, and the air was still. Trixie and Grizelda realized what had happened, from early on every foal or griffon learning magic knew a undeniable rule: Magic was never to be used on magic. Casting a spell on top of another spell was horribly unpredictable: both spells could fizzle harmlessly, or more likely, they could combine and gain strength, forming a reality-shattering chain reaction. Trixie tried to shriek, but her voice sounded quiet, distant, as if she was outside her body.
The next few seconds went by in a series of flashes. Trixie felt herself tumble, roll and collapse. For a brief moment she felt she was in the sky, looking down upon the lights of the city, but soon she felt the kiss of cement on the street, and looked up to see Grizelda emerging from the collapsed front door of the casino. Police ponies were running toward the scene, and Grizelda gazed at them briefly before opening some kind of doorway in the air, a portal, and stepped into it, disappearing. The wounded unicorn attempted to stand, but found she didn't have the strength to move her legs. She saw Seth with the police and a paramedic running toward her.
“There she is!” Trixie could hear Seth just over the ringing in her hears. “She fought that griffon- she saved us!”
The mare laughed as she drifted off into blackness. She'd only been trying to save her own life, and Trixie felt she may have even failed at that.
Grizelda emerged from the other side of the portal, immediately collapsing into the green grass. She glanced around Whitetail Woods, where a few other griffons had an improvised camp. One of them helped her to her feet. He was darker even than her, his fur colored a creamy dark brown and feathers a dark gray. He wore a full armor, the breastplate ornately engraved as the others, bracers, grieves, and spurs on his rear legs that jingled at he walked. His helmet was brushed black bronze decorated with a row of impossibly long spikes going from the back to the front. The sword-like spikes were a sign of status, as many griffons in high command wore. Grizelda often wondered how he even walked around without entangling the spikes in everything he passed.
“I suppose you had no luck with the fillyfooler.”
Grizelda shook her head, “No, she fought me back. Most pathetically at first, then with surprising strength. I believe I left her dead, Granite. I'm sorry.”
The one named Granite sighed, “Glenda and Gad had no more luck.”
He motioned toward the massive griffon, Glenda tending to his superficial wounds. The tiny Glenda was almost a comical contrast to her brother, seeming tiny and frail next to the mountainous form of Gad. Still, Grizelda knew how powerfully the small griffon could fight despite her small size. In fact, she was the only one not wounded from her mission to get information on the location of the deserter.
“We know she's near here- Grizelda's spell told us that. Why not just canvas the area? We'll find her eventually,” Glenda said, tying off a bandage on her brother's arm.
“Too many soldier ponies,” Gad grumbled, “They not want us around.”
“With all the ponies on the border, we should have been able to march right in without a problem.” Granite groused. “There's no reason for that army to be here.”
“I say we go home,” Gad said, “Ponies fight dirty, and to many of them around us. We come back later when ponies leave.”
“Not a half bad idea,” Grizelda said, “I'm with Gad: these ponies aren't going to be any help. They just won't betray her.”
“If we could ask without getting into a fight, or at least just fly around and look, we'd be able to get somewhere.” Glenda said, shaking her head.
“Yes! Is true! We go home, come back later.”
“No.”
The the griffons all fell silent at the new voice, a deep, throaty growl of a voice that demanded instant attention. The griffon was laying in a hammock contently as he spoke. Grizelda was always amazed how wherever the group camped, there always seemed to be two trees just right for setting up a hammock. Like the others, he wore a suit of armor, and a variety of weapons. His helmet was decorated with ram's horns encircled with bands of gold, his face deeply scarred with the evidence of a hundred battles. His left eye socket was covered in a leather patch, surrounded by a puckered wound where feathers no longer grew. It wasn't just his scars, but his firm brow, strong gaze, and total confidence of speech that demanded attention. He was obviously no one to ignore, and all present knew it.
“Granite, who is the commander of the pony's army?”
Granite cleared his throat. “Goderick, were you listening the whole time?”
“Yes, and I don't care if you were discussing going home. It's not unwise, just wrong for now. The commander?”
“Of course. The pony's army is commanded by General Helios, and we have it on good word that Princess Luna herself will soon be joining the formation.”
“Excellent,” Goderick growled, “This will work perfectly.”
“Beg your pardon, champion, but how is it a good thing that Celestia's most talented and competent commanders will be at the front of the army?”
“Granite, you only see obstacles when you take your eyes of the goal. In truth, you pointed out what will work to our advantage. Neither Helios, nor Luna will allow a single pony to be hurt. They will do anything to stop one of their citizens coming to harm.”
“Are we here to bring harm to ponies?” Gad asked.
“We could be,” Goderick said with a wicked smile crawling along his beak, “What we need, is hostages.”
Seth trotted down the hall of the busy hospital, a bouquet of flowers and a card clenched in his mouth. He'd heard that Trixie had been taken to this hospital, but had no idea of her condition and wanted to make sure he was okay and deliver a message. He learned from the on-duty nurse that she was stabilized and could have visitors. As he reached her room, Seth saw a doctor emerge, shaking his head.
“Doc, is that Trixie in there?”
The doctor nodded, “Yes, are you a relative?”
“Well...no. I'm a friend. Well, sort of a co-worker...I mean...is she okay?”
“She'll live,” The doctor said, “Though she was seriously injured, nothing is terminal. She's got more broken bones than whole ones. Cuts, bruises, burns. What happened to her?”
“She was attacked. We all were,” Seth explained, “Can I see her?”
“Sure, but you should know we had to wire her jaw. She can hear you, but she can't speak.”
“Will she be able to perform again?”
The Doctor paused, then spoke solemnly “She'll be lucky to walk again.”
Seth sighed, pushing open the door, seeing Trixie in in innumerable casts, some of her legs suspended in traction.
“Hi'ya Trixie,” Seth said, setting down the bouquet, “I brought you some flowers. And...your hat!”
“You're lucky, considering. I mean your alive!”
Trixie rolled her eyes.
“Yeah, small potatoes, I know.” Seth admitted. “Look, I wanna let you know, I'm grateful you saved me. The whole time that griffon was in my mind...I was trying to get loose. I knew she was gonna kill us and you fought her when you coulda just ran! You saved my life Trixie, that's...what makes this hard to...I mean I was ticked off! I mean, angry as I've ever been! I mean you saved my life! You saved their lives! I was on your side. I gave those guys the business I was- you- they were- I mean-”
Seth trailed off as Trixie twirled a free hoof in a 'get on with it' gesture.
“All right, all right.” Seth said, “I'm sorry, Trixie- they fired you.”
Trixie's eyes widened. “They said you caused to much trouble! It's stupid! Sure, the place got trashed but it wasn't you who did it! Look, I won't be working for those guys anymore. They can plug a hole for all I care! I would never work for them again. Doing that to you, then sending me here to break it to you while your all messed up, pissed me off.”
Trixie's eyes filled with tears, looking to Seth for any comfort. “I do like ya, Trix. I don't care what they think. I know you're good- you saved my life, and look what happened to you! It just ain't fair that you just keep getting the short end of the stick.”
The mare looked away, angrily mumbling around the bandages in her jaw.
“I suppose you wanna be alone...”
Trixie nodded as much as she could with her casts.
“I'll be back tomorrow Trixie. Ain't right you should just be here alone.”
Trixie only grunted.
The former showpony closed her eyes, hoping the pain medication would allow her a little sleep among the dull ache all over her body.
“Trixie, so much power...rendered powerless.”
With all the pain medication Trixie wasn't entirely sure if she imagined the voice, it sounded as if it came from outside the window.
“I'm real, Trixie,” the female voice said, “I agree with Seth, it's not fair. You're so talented, so strong. You should never have to ask for anything from anyone. You should take it. You deserve it, Trixie, for all your suffering.”
Trixie closed her eyes tightly, not wanting to hear the voice anymore, willing it to stop.
“I only want you to have power, limitless power. Wealth, fame, all these things. I only ask for one thing in return: a trinket that once belonged Cosmos the All-father. I want the Celestial Emerald, and if you help me, I'll make you a god.”
Trixie mumbled something around her bandages.
“Oh, well, I suppose I'll have to heal you at least partially before you can agree.”
Trixie felt a warm sensation in her aching face, and the wires that held her jaw shut snapped off and the pain was gone. “How did you--”
“I can give you the ability to do this all yourself. And more.”
“Trixie is intrigued,” The unicorn spoke, “Tell me more...”