Guardian Wings

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6

Chapter 1

Guardian’s Wings

Prologue:

It would be only five minutes before they broke into the place. What could he do? The barricade wasn’t the sturdiest thing ever and he had nothing to defend myself or the others. The door began to splinter and crack with a deafening noise. They were almost inside! Frostlight began to think, what would Nightwind do? He was trapped and doomed to die, but then he saw something glint in the corner of the room…

Chapter 1: Introductions

It was a rainy day, and the rain pattered on the dirt road in a fine rhythm. It reminded Frostlight of his first days of being a weather Pegasus. There was nothing that Frostlight enjoyed more than making weather, other than a couple other things. Most ponies would consider weather other than sunny days terrible. But Frostlight was a unique Pegasus. He enjoyed weather every minute he could. Other ponies would stay inside during rain storms, but Frostlight would sit on is patio and enjoy it, ignoring that fact he was drenched afterward. But if there was something he cherished more than rain, it was snow. To Frostlight, snow was even more magical than a unicorn’s literal magic. No matter how cold, he would feel the warmth of happiness whenever it snowed. His cutie mark even was three snowflakes, and his coat a bright white, with a teal mane. Even though he loved weather and making it, there was something more he pined for in life. And it was to become a member of the royal guard in Canterlot.

The chance to get an opportunity to join was very slim, and the initiation was brutal to even the most headstrong pony. Frostlight had a very nice muscle build, and could do things weaker ponies couldn’t, but still he wasn’t cut out for that type of daily activity. But still he loved to protect, he wouldn’t fight for any other reason. He felt fighting for fun was okay, but he still didn’t enjoy it, but when it came to protect somepony or something that he loved or cared for, he’d willingly lay his life on the line for it.

For now, Frostlight lay silently in his bed, listening to the rain patter on the road outside, and on his windowpane. He had friends, but didn’t try to be popular. Too much expectations and competition, and he weren’t the most outgoing Pegasus. He didn’t know how in the hay how someone as outgoing as Pinkie Pie could go around talking and making friends with strangers and not feel in the slightest uncomfortable. But he guessed in her Pinkie logic, strangers were actually friends, and she wanted to be BEST friends. But he decided that it was best not to question Pinkie logic, besides, it was fun that way. Frostlight heard a knocking at his door, and got up quietly to go see what it was, or who. He quickly turned on the lights before he opened the door and when he did he was greeted with the dark blue face of his long term friend, Nightwind. “How’s it going weather-pony?” He started. “Well, it’s a beautiful day and I’m kind of bored, but I guess today is going exceptionally okay.” Frostlight said. “What’s with you and those kinds of words? Are you trying to sound really educated or something?” Nightwind replied. “Nah, I just speak like this, you know I’m just trying to expand my vocabulary into words pegasi these days don’t use, you know, just trying to be different.” Frostlight said. “Well, you could be further from the herd, especially because of the way you adore gloomy weather.” Nightwind replied with a smug expression. “Hey! It’s not gloomy, it’s very beautiful, and I appreciate nature with its weather, and I enjoy making it.” Frostlight snapped feeling his face going red. “Okay chill out bro, I’m just saying you are acting like the weather happens on its own or some nonsense like that.” Nightwind said as he started to gaze at the sky.

The rain had died down and the weather team pulled in to clear the sky. “Well it’s about 78time; I’d rather it be night though.” Nightwind said ruefully. Nightwind’s special talent was being stealthy, he’d love to break into houses and sneak around for the fun of it, but he never stole anything. His cutie mark was a cloak and raven that was hovering above it, and resembled some sort of shadowy like mystery. Nightwind hardly opened up to other ponies but he was still nice to be with at times, though he could be insensitive at times. Frostlight was sensitive, but he wasn’t a total softy. He could actually be very solitary and very tough in a snap when he needed to be. “You want to go get something to eat?” Nightwind asked. “Yeah, let’s go.” Frostlight replied.

Nightwind and Frostlight headed down the paved road and stopped at the small diner alongside the road. They lived in a small town named Sky wind, and Nightwind would sometimes tease others in a joke saying the town was half-named after him. The town itself was about 15 miles out from Ponyville, and didn’t get too much traffic. Despite being called Sky wind, the town was built on the ground, symbolizing the bond between the Earth ponies and the Pegasi. Another town to the east symbolized the bond between Pegasi and Unicorns, but Frostlight never paid attention to its name. They pushed the doors open with their heads, feeling too lazy to use their hooves, at sat down heavily at the counter. “I’ll have some hay fries, and I’ll guess Frost over here will have water.” Nightwind said. “No objections here.” Frostlight mumbled. Frostlight had been in this diner many times over and still felt calm every time he came in. It had white and black tiles on the floor, and a sort of sturdy wood that formed the tables and counters. “I hope you don’t mind, but I invited Cross Sticks and Static Sound over to eat with us.” Nightwind began. “I don’t care, its fine.” Frostlight said. Frostlight was bored completely out of his mind, and he needed something to fix that. Static and Sticks were fun to hang out with, and were ranting on about how the band they were going to form was gonna rock. “Helllllloooo!” Static shouted as she pranced into the diner. Sticks were sort of quiet, but when he got his hooves on a pair of drum sticks and a drum kit, he could really rock it out loud. Static preferred the guitar, and Sticks of course the drums. Nightwind liked the bass, but Frostlight wasn’t in the band. Frostlight was more focused on other matters, and plus Frostlight wasn’t very good at singing so they would have to find another pony to sing. Sticks had a jagged mane that screamed rock and roll, and you could spot him easily out of the average herd. His coat was a gray, and his mane was half red and half yellow, and was divided down the middle. Static Sound had the weirdest mane cut ever, but it seemed to fit her nicely. It was hard to explain her mane to a stranger until they saw it themselves. It was like a normal mane, but there was many turn-backs at the end of the mane that dropped at her body, much like Pinkie Pie’s, and she had a sort of hook shaped curl on top of her mane that protruded very noticeably. Her mane was deep lavender, while her coat was a striking magenta. It looked like a rock n’ roll version of Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle combined to some extent.

“You guys been behaving yourselves lately?” Frostlight said hesitantly. “What’s it to you?” Static said narrowing her eyes. Static was sort of a rebel and loved a little bit of chaos every now and then. The pony police were usually used to her shenanigans, but sometimes they were forced to have to put her in a detention center. “Never mind, I was just wondering…” Frostlight trailed off eager to change the subject. “How’ve you been Frost?” Cross Sticks greeted. “I’m fine, but I need to find a way to join the Royal Guard in Canterlot.” Frostlight said grimly. “You still hung up on that?” Nightwind intervened. “I thought you gave up on that about a week ago.” “Nah, I just felt pretty down, but I hear the princess is giving tests out to potential recruits to see if they got what it takes to join the guard. But still, it’s pretty hard to join if you’re not an Alicorn.” Frostlight said. “Well forget it, no one ever will realize that you don’t need some fancy magic OR wings to be in that guard. It’s seems unfair if you ask me.” Static said with an edge to her voice. Static never liked Alicorns; she’d always rant on about how they’re arrogant and petty. I always had envied them, to have both wings and a horn seemed very unique. I sighed, “Well, I can always try, but I doubt I’ll make it in…” “Hey don’t think like that Frostlight,” Sticks was always there to encourage Frostlight. “You can make it and maybe even surpass other recruits, but with that mindset you won’t make it past initiation!” Frostlight smiled, it was a while since Frostlight last smiled, maybe two weeks, “Thanks Sticks.” He smiled back at me, “You ponies going to order something or what?” The barpony asked. “Nah, we’re leaving right now” Nightwind said as he proceeded to the door. “Let’s go find something to do.”

The four ponies thought it would be best if they decided to pay Ponyville a visit, and maybe play in the park and if they wanted to, have a picnic or nap a bit. They were only hanging out, and they didn’t feel they need to do something extreme at the very moment, so a subtle visit to Ponyville seemed nice. “Nightwind and I will go ahead and find us a nice tree to hang around at the park there, so we’ll meet you there.” Frostlight said, and was met by agreement. Nightwind and Frostlight were Pegasi, but Static was a unicorn, and Cross Sticks was a normal earth pony. Frost and Night were fast when it came to flying, and they’d love to race. After hearing about the stories of the Element Ponies in Ponyville, and hearing about Rainbow Dash’s swiftness and speed, it seemed to affect how competitive they got. They always sort of admired her, although they never met her. But both of them had met Pinkie Pie, after their first visit to the town. It seemed impossible to NOT meet her, but it was nice to see somepony who liked to see other ponies happy, so she could be happy too.

Frostlight and Nightwind flew as fast as they could, for they always had some sort of non-verbal agreement every time they went somewhere that it would be a race to see who would get there first. Frostlight loved to fly, it felt exhilarating to feel the speed, adrenaline, and wind whip across his body. Besides the stray bug that hit Frostlight’s face every now and then, it was almost perfect. Although Frostlight loved to fly, he was afraid of falling, heights didn’t bother him, but the very feeling of falling just made him shudder. It always gave him an empty stomach feeling and it almost always disoriented him afterwards. Nightwind had a small lead on Frostlight, but Frostlight was gaining on him. Frostlight would always win in straight paths, but he wasn’t as good when it came to twists and turns. But that’s where Nightwind always won; he could pull off dazzling stunts even when danger was ever-present. Frostlight continued to gain on Nightwind, who only seemed almost only a blur of black and blue to his eyes. Frostlight couldn’t help but feel he would win, but that only motivated him to gain speed to catch up. His wings felt lighter than air as he sped through, only two miles left until they reached Ponyville. On his right his saw the Everfree Forest come into view, and Frostlight instantly knew they were almost there. Frostlight heard Nightwind say something, but the rush of wind drowned out his words. Frostlight flapped his wings even harder so that it felt that they would become instant lead from all the work they were doing. He caught up to Nightwind and they were flying side by side. Both Pegasi looked at each other at the same time, and they couldn’t help but grin. They had both tied.
Both Nightwind and Frostlight arrived in Ponyville and quickly made it to the park just so they could fall exhausted onto the soft grass that grew there.

Frostlight continued his exasperated gasps for air while Nightwind tried to recover his breath so he wouldn’t look tired out, but the failed in doing so and eventually gave up. Nightwind cared a lot for his reputation and would always try to build upon it when given the chance. Frostlight cared what people thought of him, but didn’t care for being popular. “So, you think we tied?” Frostlight said still breathless. “Let’s just keep it that way so we don’t have to argue about it.” He chuckled. We both gazed out onto the park field looking for a nice tree to curl up under. It was hot, and Frostlight would always feel hotter than other ponies would feel. He was always sensitive to heat, but he wouldn’t get sunburned too often. “Hey! You think that tree would do the trick?” Nightwind called to Frostlight. Frostlight looked over to where he was pointing and say a lovely oak tree that had many twisted branches spread out making a beautiful umbrella shape forming a significant shadow in the noon sunlight. “Perfect.” Frostlight said quietly.

They quickly flew over and lay down on their sides, still heaving breathless from the race they had on the way here. “When do you think they’ll get here?” Frostlight asked. “Soon, I guess, you know they always take their time when they travel without real purpose.” Nightwind replied. “But you never know, it’s pretty hot all a sudden…” Nightwind trailed off and began to gaze off into the sunlight. “The Weather Team has really been working hard lately; they’ve been changing the weather faster than ever.” Frostlight said. “You know Frost; you may be the best flyer other than Dash and the Wonderbolts that I’ve ever seen, I mean you fly so fast.” Nightwind began. “Hey,” Frostlight cut him off, “You actually almost beat me today, so I don’t want to hear how good I was.” Nightwind frowned, he seemed anxious. “Why are you so humble when it comes to compliments?” He asked. “Because arrogance leads to failure when expectations are high, and I don’t need that.” Frostlight said without hesitation. He knew why Frostlight acted how he did, and Frostlight knows what he wants and he knows how to get there, unless when it comes to the Royal Guard. “I know the Wonderbolts are very selective of their crew, but if and I mean IF, you can’t join the Royal Guard, maybe you should try to join them.” Nightwind suggested. “Maybe…” Frostlight said, “Just maybe.”

Cross Sticks and Static Sound arrived about 15 minutes later, carrying with them a bag full of foods and other equipment, and they arrived by carriage apparently. “Too lazy to walk eh?” Nightwind shouted to them. “Cross Sticks didn’t seem to care about the comment, but Static Sound perked up at the remark and shouted back, “I’m sorry we could magically grow wings and fly over here quickly like you two!” She shouted. “Use your magic then!” Nightwind replied with a smug grin. It’s almost as if the two had a love-hate relationship, they just loved to hate each other, at least in a playful manner. “Hurry up! The day won’t last forever!” Frostlight shouted to them as they hurried over to the tree we were under. “I wouldn’t mind if night lasted forever…” Nightwind said under his breath. Frostlight grinned at him, “I bet you wouldn’t.” Frostlight said. Static Sound began to unpack everything, and Cross Sticks seemed to have disappeared to somewhere else. “Where’s Sticks?” Frostlight asked. “Well, he’s probably off wandering; he’s a quiet one you know?” Static Sound replied to me. Frostlight heard the rustling of leaves above him and looked up only to see that Nightwind was trying to find a descent place to rest on the tree branches, but without knowing, he knocked off several twigs which promptly landed on his face. “Watch it!” Frostlight snapped. “Get over it, it was an accident!” He shouted back. Frostlight felt bored but annoyed at that point, so he felt the need to wash away that feeling. “Static, keep an eye out on the food.” Frostlight told Static sound, and quickly grabbed a Frisbee out of bag that Static brought with her. Frostlight was REALLY good at Frisbee, and could aim the disc and throw it pretty far. So he flexed his right wing and used it to grip the Frisbee, and fling it at Nightwind. Though Nightwind is good at sneaking, but he’s better at detection. He quickly ducked down and caught the disc with his left wing. “Nice try, but you’ll have to do better!” He said as he threw it back at me. Frostlight weaved to the side and caught it quickly fearing that it would go past and off into the park. “Hey! I’m trying to tune my guitar!” Static shouted, but quickly ditched that idea and caught the disc in mid air as she threw it back and Nightwind. She looked to her left, and while using her magic, she flung it off into the park. Nightwind and Frostlight frowned, but then it came back and hit the tree. “Sticks! Get over here!” Static Sound shouted. Sticks emerged out of a bush in the distance, looking groggy and trotted over to us. “I’m trying to sleep and I get hit in the head with a stupid Frisbee…” He moaned. Nightwind and Frostlight chuckled at that and Frostlight picked up the Frisbee again, and Nightwind jumped down for a round of disc tag. Basically its tag, but you have to tag somepony with the Frisbee, and you HAVE to throw it, even if its point blank range.

Nightwind quickly dodge rolled behind the tree and ran off, Frostlight wondered why when he realized he was it. Nightwind was smart to use the tree because every pony knew Frostlight could throw. No magic or wings were allowed to ensure the fairness of the game unless the wings were used in place of hooves in throwing, but Frostlight still learned how to throw with my mouth. Frostlight quickly turned sideways, and launched the disc at Static Sound. Static was already running away and made a turn behind a rock. But Frostlight predicted that, and threw the disc with a curve so that it would weave in an arc so that it hit her behind the small boulder. The disc began to curve and the wind took it so it went faster and even Nightwind could hear the sound of it making contact with Static Sound’s body, and of course her shouting in pain. Every pony stood quiet after hearing that, about one minute later she came out from behind the rock limping. A bright red streak was slashed across her flank that was extremely obvious showing so that even Nightwind could see it from across the park. “By Celestia…” Frostlight breathed. He took off running faster than he could comprehend knowing that Static would be back faster than you could say “Revenge”. He never meant to hit her that hard but there was no taking it back now that it was done with. “FROOOOOOOOST!!!” Frostlight heard Static Sound shout at him. Frostlight knew he was in for it, and looked behind myself as he ran toward Nightwind. She was gaining on him, and fast. “Hit the deck!” Frostlight heard Nightwind shout, and hastily he dove down to see the Frisbee wedge itself in the ground a couple meters in front of him. Frostlight got up as fast as he could and headed for a group of trees in hope of finding a hiding place. Static Sound was beginning to run toward the Frisbee and now that she was distracted it was a perfect time to hide. “Where do you think I should hide? Maybe those trees?” Frostlight gasped. “I don’t know right now but you should hurry it up, I’ll try to calm her down.” Nightwind told me. Frostlight began to run again and he also wondered where Cross Sticks went again, but it didn’t matter now, he had to hide.

Meanwhile Cross Sticks saw what happened and took cover in a nearby bush and watched the carnage unfold. He decided it was smart that if he hid in a bush, then Static wouldn’t take it out on him. Static was short tempered, and he didn’t want any of it. He noticed Frostlight was headed out of the park and toward some forest in the distance, and that Nightwind was going toward Static Sound, most likely to calm her down. He figured Nightwind had that under control, but he decided it best to keep an eye out on Frostlight and went to follow him into the forest.

Frostlight continued running to the forest he spotted, it seemed a lot more effective than hiding in a group of trees. She would never find him here as long as he kept quiet until she calmed down. He ran for what seemed an endless amount of time but then reached the edges of the forest. An old sign stood at the path going into the forest, but it was unreadable. Scratched and weathered for a long time it seemed, but it didn’t matter, he was going in. Cross Sticks was following him slowly to avoid his attention, but he couldn’t help but notice that the other ponies around him began to murmur around him, and he heard somepony ask another why that Pegasus was going into the Everfree Forest, and that he was a fool. Cross Sticks got worried, he had to warn Frostlight that it was dangerous, but he already went into the forest and disappeared from sight. He ran over to the forest’s edge and peered into the dark canopy looking for Frostlight, how hard could it be to find a white colored Pegasus in a dark green forest? And why didn’t he just fly to the clouds in the first place?

Frostlight continued to run until he found a thick tree with plenty of leaves and branches to conceal him. Why didn’t he just fly away? He thought to himself. It didn’t matter now, he was safe from Static’s rage and all he needed to do was waiting. He lay down on the thickest branch that was near the bottom, but well concealed with leaves. He sighed loudly and began to daydream. What did he need to do to get noticed by the Royal Guard that wasn’t a fraud? Anypony could con them into getting their attention, but when the time came he would need to prove he could be an asset to them he would fail. It seemed unfair that only Alicorns were so common in the Guard, but at the same time it was understandable. They were the most versatile species that could fly AND use magic. It was a rare opportunity to be accepted into the Guard and not be an Alicorn. Maybe all he needed to do was prevent a disaster or something of that nature, but where would he start and where could he find one? He started to feel selfish and ditched the idea. How could he wish for somepony to be in danger? But as he thought that, a twig snapped nearby. He quickly got up and scanned the forest floor. Did Static find him, and how? He was in a thick forest and could have gone anywhere. A dark figure seemed to creep through the bushes nearby left to Frostlight, and he quickly shouted, “Hey!” The figure jumped, seeming to be startled and shouted back, “Frostlight! There you are!” It was Cross Sticks; he had wondered where he went. “So you were hiding here too?” Frostlight asked. “No, I’m actually here to get you out of here.” He replied. “Wha-“ Frostlight began but was interrupted by a rustling noise in the near distance. “Okay, you’re in the Everfree Forest and it’s dangerous! We need to leave now!” Cross Sticks demanded.

Frostlight quickly got up on the branch but something moved closer from the bushes behind him. Frostlight quickly spread his wings but before he could take off the tree trunk cracked horizontally around the tree and started to topple over. Frostlight jumped off the tree and landed with a heavy thud on the ground. “ACK!!” Frostlight grunted loudly. Cross Sticks ran over to him, “Are you okay?!” He shouted. “I think…I broke my left wing…” Frostlight choked out exasperated. “We’ll tend to that wings later but we need to leave!” Sticks shouted. Behind the tree stump, a black miasma of matter began to rise up and curl around the stump. Shapes began to form in the black matter. “What in the hay is that thing?” Frostlight gasped in pain. “It doesn’t matter now, we need to leave and inform the Guard!” Sticks shouted. Sticks helped me up even though it was my wing that was broken, not any of my legs. The black matter began to take on a more distinct shape. It began to look more like another Pegasus, IT WAS A PEGASUS. The thing started to move forward and we watched it in horror. It had terrible movement, very jerky and uncoordinated. But as it moved, it became more coordinated and deliberate. Sticks and Frost began to turn and charge forward in the opposite direction. “What is that…thing!?” Frostlight shouted as they ran by the moss covered trees. “I don’t know! But we’ll have to report this and find out soon!” Both of the friends looked behind each other, and saw that the black creature was right behind them, and was only getting faster and more dedicated to hunting them down, or whatever it had intended for them. The edge of the forest was nearing, but the creature was still getting closer. Their surrounding was getting lighter, but the creature seemed to make the environment around it darker. As if it blocked out the sun wherever it walked, and its eyes took on a shade of scarlet. The light seemed to grow brighter, but still out of reach, and the two were losing their breath quickly, and Frostlight’s will to go on was diminishing. His wing felt painful with the sense of a cramping pain as if something was making it crush inward. He felt like cutting it off if he could, but he needed to keep running. He needed to escape the creature.

They neared the forest and the creature was gaining, it was about 10 meters behind them. They were so close, and a dark figure appeared at the edge of the forest. Frostlight felt his heart drop, he was doomed. But something was different. It eyes, they didn’t glow. Another figure appeared beside it, and it said something hastily to the other. Frostlight and Cross Stick were running so hard; they couldn’t make any detail of their surroundings beside them. They suddenly heard a loud CRACK! And a loud thud of something heavy hitting the forest floor. It was Static Sound and Nightwind, and the noise behind them was a tree that Static Sound used her magic to bring down to block off the creature behind them. Frostlight and Cross Sticks collapsed onto the green field that collided with the edge of the Everfree Forest. Frostlight fell onto his broken wing and shouted in pain. “What’s wrong, well besides the….the thing that was chasing you?” Nightwind asked worried. “My…my wing, the left one…” Frostlight choked out, and passed out into blackness. “We need to…get to Princess Celestia now.” Cross Sticks said out of breath, but urgently.

Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Darker Plains

Pain, white hot searing pain that seeped into his mind as Frostlight plunged back into consciousness. His wing… it felt as if somepony was tearing it apart and making sure it was as painful as possible. He felt his body jolt and he screamed in pain. Something was holding him down. Straps maybe, he couldn’t see. Everything was white, and so very bright. “Calm down! Stop…moving!” a voice said. Frostlight wanted to calm down, but the pain was so intense he couldn’t stop. “The lights! Turn it down!” He screamed. The lights dimmed, and Frostlight could see, but it still hurt his eyes to open them. “My...my wing, it hurts. I want it to stop.” Frostlight said exasperated. “Don’t worry, now that you’re awake, we can start to use our magic to dull the pain.” The voice said. Frostlight felt his wing start to tingle, and the pain started to drift away. It still hurt, but the pain was bearable again. “We can’t use too much magic otherwise it’ll put you out to sleep, but her Majesty needs you awake.” The voice said. “The Majesty?” Frostlight thought, “What’s your name?” Frostlight asked. “I’m no pony important, what matters is your health.” The stranger said.

Frostlight’s vision came into focus and he saw the doctor’s features. He had a rugged muzzle, and his coat was a dark grey, and his mane and tail were a brilliant shade of crimson. His face looked of age, and Frostlight instantly knew he had plenty of experience in the medical field. His cutie mark was covered by his medical jacket, so Frostlight couldn’t figure out his specialty. “So…Princess Celestia wants to talk to me?” Frostlight began. “Yes, you will meet her soon, don’t worry you don’t have to leave his room.” The doctor cut in. “For now, please get some rest, you have 20 minutes of sleep before she arrives, then 5 minutes of getting presentable.” He continued. Frostlight wanted to sleep, but knowing that he would have a most likely brief audience with the Princess, well he couldn’t sleep. He started to examine the room. Very bright white walls, and he was lying on a plain bed with white sheets and supports, probably so doctors and nurses could notice any bleeding or abnormalities. He lie still in his bed, and stared into space, and his mind started to drift. The memories of yesterday came flooding back like water out of a bursting dam. The forest, his wing… the creature, all of which wasn’t pleasant in the least, but at least he didn’t endure it alone. Cross Sticks was still with him and still alive. Hopefully nothing would get in the way of their friendship; you never know what could’ve happened after that catastrophe.

“Alright!” a voice said, “Make way for the Princess!” It continued. Frostlight steadied himself; this was a rare opportunity, though he wished it had happened differently. The doors opened and She walked in. “Hello, Frostlight.” Celestia said. “Umm, hi” Frostlight replied nervously. She smiled, “I guessed you’d have this reaction, but I assure you you’ve got nothing to fear, even if I AM the ruler of this wonderful land.” Frostlight still felt nervous, but at a strange ease, as if something was calming him. “So, you’re here to…hear about the Incident.” Frostlight said. “Yes, in fact I couldn’t be more interested about this event in specific.” Celestia said. “Well, I guess you’d like it if I started at the beginning.” Frostlight said. “Yes please.” Celestia said. Frostlight half smiled and half grimaced. He began with the trip to the park, his friend getting mad, the forest, and eventually his dreaded encounter with the creature. He was very specific about part of the black creature turning into a Pegasus. Celestia herself was nonetheless shocked, but still she held an unyielding expression. “And that’s it, that’s all I can tell you because I blacked out then woke up here about 35 minutes ago.” Frostlight said. Celestia nodded, “Well, you and your friend has been very helpful, I going to go now…” Celestia began but Frostlight couldn’t help himself. “Is there any way and I mean ANY way I could help the cause, I mean, seeing that creature will haunt me for a long time, and it’d put me to ease knowing I’m helping get rid of it.” Frostlight blurted out. Celestia stood there, with an emotionless expression. “How so, would you like to help this predicament?” Celestia asked. “Well, I guess I could try to… join the Royal Guard.” Frostlight said hesitantly. “Well, normally it’d take a lot to let somepony who isn’t an Alicorn into the guard, but something gives me the feeling of trust with you. I’ll give you a chance to join, but I can’t let you join if you can’t pass initiation.” “Thank you!” Frostlight once again blurted out. “I mean, thank you very much.” Celestia smiled, “Good luck with your wing.” And she walked out of the room.

The doctor walked back into the room, but this time without his uniform. “You’ll be in the hospital for about four more days, so you’ll get regular visiting from family or friends but friends require a background check.” He said “Excuse me,” Frostlight said, “I couldn’t help but notice your mark.” It looked like a syringe, but the fluid inside was red, not of a chemical or vaccine. “What does it mean?” Frostlight asked. “Well, it signifies the life that blood gives you, and I’ll always be there for patients in need, and that I’ll never let them down…not on my watch.” The doctor said. “Please,” Frostlight began, “Tell me your name.” The doctor smiled, “its Bloodguard.” Frostlight smiled, “Thank you for patching me up, Bloodguard.” Frostlight said. “No problem, but as I said before, 4 days, and a week of staying off of it.” Bloodguard said.

Frostlight stayed in bed for the next two days, all alone. His wing wasn’t in the greatest shape after he sprinted through the woods with it after breaking it of course. But on the third day, visitors were permitted and he would get his wing tested for any problems just in case. Around noon, his friends visited him, including Cross Sticks. “So, how are you holding up in this boring white box?” Nightwind began. “Well, it was fine until you came…” Frostlight replied sarcastically with a grin. “Hey, watch it. Don’t you want to avoid angering me like you did Static?” He replied smugly. “Well, guess what?” Frostlight began. “What is it?” They all shot back in unison except Sticks. “Well, guess who in two days ago in fact, got a chance to join the Royal Guard?” Frostlight said unable to contain himself. “No…way…” Static Sound said dumbfounded. “Oh, but yes!” Frostlight said his voice starting to rise. “Well, well, look who found a position in the Royal Guard? When you starting?” Cross Sticks said unexpectantly. “Well, as soon as my wing is completely and I do mean COMPLETELY healed, I can go to Canterlot and join the initiation tests.” Frostlight said. “Well, I know this is a little early, but good luck, I’ll be sure to help you with anything in any way I can.” Nightwind said solemnly. “Thanks, all of you for coming, but I’ve got to get some rest so I guess I’ll see you tomorrow after the tests.” Frostlight said, and then the nurses escorted them out of the room.

The next day Frostlight was awoken around 10:30 AM. He was going to get scanned to see how his wing was healing and if there was anything wrong with the healing process or for any other abnormalities. Bloodguard entered the room quietly, “Alright, time for your examination tests.” He said. “Alright, anything I should know? Frostlight asked. “Well, there have been some changes to the tests. You will get your wing examined as normal, but you will get a through physical of your entire body so that you can join the Royal Guard as soon as possible.” Bloodguard said hastily. “I’m sorry you still have to go through initiation but pleasantries later, time to run some tests.”

Frostlight got up careful to make sure he didn’t put any pressure on his wing as he got up. As soon as he was up, Bloodguard was starting to escort him down the hallway. The corridors of the hospital were abnormally clean, all in whitewash tiles. What hospital was he in? He had a cousin who lived in Ponyville and got hospitalized, but this hospital didn’t look anything like the one there, and neither the one at Sky Wind. They continued down the corridor as Frostlight asked the question, “What hospital am I in anyway?” “You are in the hospital of Cloudsdale actually. You originally were going to be taken to the one in Canterlot, but due to your heatstroke and broken wing, you needed faster medical attention. That’s when you came rolling in the doors and I got you as my patient.” Bloodguard said. “Oh, how bad did I look when I came in?” Frostlight asked. “Well, at first you were barely conscious and delirious, and your wing was in pretty bad shape. Several of the tips of your wing were fractured and the main bones extending into the shaft of your wing was broken almost so bad you could’ve had a compound fracture if it bent forward more, but luckily the Cloudsdale Hospital is among the best equipped in all of Equestria.” He finished. Frostlight frowned in disappointment, how was this going to affect his flying? He was among the best of his class in flying and weather making, along with Nightwind in flying.

They approached the examination room. “Well, you are going to be under x-rays and then after that you will have 10 minutes to prepare yourself to be examined by the top medical officers in Canterlot. They are here to make sure you are ready to be extra prepared for initiation under orders of Princess Celestia.” Bloodguard said with a twinge of envy in his voice. “Well, I didn’t know the Princess would take me so seriously, but I guess that’s what her job is all about.” Frostlight added. The doctor smiled, and opened the doors for the other nurses to get him ready for examination.

The X-ray examination went along quickly but it felt like an eternity for Frostlight. The bright and sudden flashes of light disoriented him every time it went off. In about 20 minutes it was over and Bloodguard was in a desk in front of Frostlight giving him the results. “Well there’s good news and very bad news.” Bloodguard began. “Give me the bad news first, so that the good news can comfort me.” Frostlight said hesitantly “Here’s it straight,” Bloodguard began, “Your left wing can be mended to the point of comfort, but you won’t be able to use it for flying ever again.” He finished. Frostlight cringed terribly at this, how was he going to get through initiation like this? “The good news is thanks to the medical team from Canterlot, they quickly relayed the result to Princess Celestia and she confirmed you have the opportunity to be eligible for a prototype device.” He finished. “What is it?” Frostlight asked with desperation in his voice. “The magical scientists over at Canterlot have made a most recent discovery in enchantments. They’ve constructed a device that is used for the Royal Guard, and could be tweaked to be suited for your needs. It latches on to your wing, and applies whatever enchantment a skilled unicorn puts on it, and they could enchant it to make you fly again.” Bloodguard finished. Frostlight was relieved, but he knew he wasn’t out of the woods yet. “So, what are the drawbacks?” Frostlight asked. “Well at the moment, we don’t know, but you are technically the test subject for its affects. So are you interested?” Bloodguard asked. Frostlight took this in and made up his mind. “I’ll do it.”

The next day Frostlight got another pleasant visit from his friends, but he was too anxious for words, and their meeting was short. But only around noon did the Canterlot physicians come to his room and brief him. “Well mister Frostlight, you are very brave for taking on this prototype and you are actually among the first to test it, and after we fully examine you for your initiation you will test our new technology should we deem you ready.” The first doctor said. “We don’t know if your wing will affect its effectiveness, but if it can get you to fly again, you are truly blessed to be here at this time of technology.” The second doctor inquired. “Let’s get started.” The third suggested, and then they went to the examination room.

Frostlight was put under a series of tests. First his leg reflexes, then his perception reactions to fast moving objects and light changes, third his brute strength, and then finally he was examined by height, weight, and length. His tests went very well except for the fact his wing was broken. “Am I ready for the prototype?” Frostlight asked after the tests. “Well… We could give you a try now, but only once, we don’t want to strain your wing do we?” The third doctor said in good faith. “Let’s go do this!” Frostlight said with excitement peeking out in his voice. The four ponies trotted outside to the courtyard of clouds. The sunshine sent rays of light to beam down of on clouds. An Alicorn came out of the doors at which they too had exited, and he carried a brief case in his mouth. He wore Royal Guard apparel and had the look of focus on his face. “See you soon…rookie.” He said, and strode off into the hospital from whence he came. He seemed vaguely familiar. “That’s Shieldguard; he actually is in fact, Bloodguard’s brother.” The first doctor said. “He guards ponies’ lives with the sword, and the other with medicine.” The second doctor said. “So then! Let’s begin.” The third doctor said hastily.

They went over to the briefcase that Shieldguard had left for them and it contained a bracelet of the finest gold in it. The first doctor opened it and clamped it around the base of Frostlight’s left wing quite snugly, but comfortably. The second doctor started to brief him on what he was supposed to do. “All you need to do is wait for our specialized Unicorn to arrive and she will enchant the bracelet so that it contains a special healing and flying ability, so then you can fly once again.” He said. Frostlight flapped his left wing gingerly, testing to see if he could maneuver his wing the way he could before the Incident had happened. It seemed alright, and told the doctors he was ready. They stood in the courtyard for about 3 minutes when a Unicorn came through the doors. “Hey, how come she can touch the clouds without falling through?” Frostlight asked. “Well, we’ve all been enchanted with a spell that allows us to stand on the clouds, but enough of that.” The second doctor said. As she came into view Frostlight recognized her as none other as Twilight Sparkle. “Let us begin then!” She said excitedly.

Twilight’s horn began to glow softly, but the longer she held the spell in, the brighter it got and more excited the energy became in its movement. She started to sweat and breathe faster, but this was short lived because then she suddenly released the enchantment in a flash of bright purple light. It nearly blinded Frostlight but he closed his eyes in time. When he opened them again, Twilight was sitting down, and two of the three doctors were asking her if she was alright. Frostlight peered over to the bracelet he had strapped around his wing. It glowed a soft purple, and it seemed to fit the bracelet’s golden color. “Okay, go ahead and try it.” The third doctor encouraged. Frostlight spread out both of his wings, and with a big leap, he took off into the sky.

Frostlight couldn’t have been more happier, he was able to fly again! After all the ill news and events that had happened something right beside the fact he was an initiate in the Royal Guard had happened. He soared through the clouds and did several loops to test if his wing was truly in top condition. He shouted with joy, in which matched the joyous cries of the doctors and Twilight as they saw him start flying. Frostlight knew it was time to land. He slowly descended and so did his emotions, but he was still happy he was able to fly again. “Well, all you need is more rest, and we can let you out of the hospital and into the initiation tests.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Higher Wings

Frostlight lie still in his bed for the next day, anticipating his eventual release from the hospital. The white wash walls seemed to even be taunting him to go outside and begin to fly again, but he knew better. A nurse walked in the room, “You have visitors Frostlight.” She said. Cross Sticks walked in with a serious expression. “So I’ve heard the results, and I’m here to let you know that all your friends send you their love, but they can’t take seeing you like this.” Cross Sticks said with a grim tone. Frostlight smiled joyfully. Cross Sticks noticed this and couldn’t help but ask, “Why are you smiling?” He asked feeling annoyed. “Well Sticks, I’ve been put through a test for a prototype invention that was invented recently. And well…it allows me to fly again!” Frostlight finished with excitement. Cross Sticks was awestricken, “But the-…they told us you wouldn’t be able to fly again!” He shouted with tears forming in his eyes. “As long as I wear this enchanted bracelet, I can fly again, but not when I take it off.” Frostlight said. Cross Sticks quickly leaped onto the bed and hugged Frostlight while crying, “This ought to be the greatest news EVER!” He said trying to hold back the tears. “I’m being released tomorrow morning, so we’ll get to spend some time together, but not much for I have to leave for initiation soon.” Frostlight said. Cross Sticks frowned, “So you can’t stay with us a little while longer?” He asked. “I’m afraid not.” Frostlight said quietly. “Well then, I wish you good luck in your initiation. We’ll send our support.” Cross Sticks said, and then quietly exited the room.

The next morning Frostlight was up bright and early, despite yesterday’s disappointment, but he wouldn’t let that get in the way of his performance. He wanted this job badly, and this was his one and only chance. Bloodguard entered the room smiling, “Well I’m here to check you out of the hospital and into the Royal Guard eh?” he said still grinning. “Finally, I’ve got to get out of here and into the tests!” Frostlight said excitedly. Bloodguard escorted him down the hallway and into the reception room, and quickly checked him out. “Thank you doc, for everything you’ve given me.” Frostlight said. “I haven’t given you anything.” He shot back. “Oh but you have, you’ve given me hope. Good luck saving patients.” Frostlight said thankfully, and with that he flew out of the city, and back to Sky Wind to pack his things for initiation.

He arrived to his house, and he was happy it was raining. He still loved the rain very much. He quickly contacted the Mail Mares of the area and sent his letter of request for pick up so he could be picked up for his tests. They quickly flew away and he returned to his house to continue packing. As he packed, a knock came to his door. He trotted over to the door to see the face of his longtime friend, Nightwind. “So I hear you’re packing for initiation…” He said trailing off. “Yeah, I guess I am.” Frostlight replied. “How long will you be gone?” Nightwind asked gloomily. “About three weeks I guess, so it’ll be awhile…Oh! Have you heard?” Frostlight said. “About your flight? Of course, I’m very happy for you, but I wish you didn’t have to go so soon…” Nightwind said sadly. “Still, I wish you luck in your tests, I’ll see you in three weeks.” “You too.” Frostlight said, and a carriage arrived outside and with that, Frostlight left.

The carriage carrying Frostlight seemed very robust, with several braces on the hull, and the craftsmanship of the vehicle was excellent, covered in intricate designs that seemed almost divine. In the distance, he saw Canterlot, but he was on the farther side of the city, and saw the training camp for the Royal Guard. He sighed in awe, seeing the courses they had. He felt confident, and he was ready for this, to prove that even a Pegasus could pass initiation. They pulled up in front of the main building, which was most likely for the new recruits to get registered into the roster. He would get a Unit, and be training for the worst for three weeks. Despite of all the discouragements, he was ready.

The carriage stopped abruptly, and Frostlight was guided out of the doors, and into the reception building. He quickly was looked over and he signed a waiver stating that if anything went wrong during training, they wouldn’t be held responsible. Then he was entered into the system and was assigned Unit nine of the thirty that were being trained at the base. At that point, Frostlight was escorted over to his Unit Barracks, at which he met three other Alicorns, Cherry Slash, Quickscorch, and Solar Ray. “So what’s makes you all special?” Frostlight asked. “I’ve been known and I will admit it, for my quick temper and my special ability for making hot weather quicker than you could blink!” Quickscorch said smugly. “I used to work on a cherry farm, but I transferred to the Royal Guard in hopes of achieving honor for my family.” Cherry Slash said, “Though I was really good when it came to harvesting the crop” He continued. “I’ve been known for my uncanny ability for light spells, such as creating artificial light, or even using magic to move clouds to clear the sky.” Solar Ray said hesitantly. The four had a small barracks of their own in the field of a total of thirty barracks. Their barracks had a number nine painted above their door, and the room was fitted for six, but only four beds were now occupied. “So how long have you been here?” Frostlight asked. “We’ve been here as long as you, it’s four minimum to a Unit so we couldn’t start our initiation until we got a new addition. I’ve been in waiting to start for a week now. I’m glad we get to start training.” Quickscorch said reluctantly. A siren in the distance began to ring, and the intercom came on. “All to bed!” A voice said sternly. Frostlight walked over to his bed and checked it for pranks, you never know when you’ll get pranked, and Frostlight didn’t know what to expect. “Hey rookie, what are you doing?” Quickscorch said. “Nothing, just checking my bed I guess…” Frostlight replied timidly. Quickscorch flew up to his top bunk of the three bunk beds in the barracks. “Is the Royal Guard letting anypony in nowadays?” Solar Ray asked. Frostlight frowned. “Well actually, I’m an exception of the Princess for your information, and that’s also offensive. I don’t take kindly to bullies either.” Frostlight said with a raised eyebrow. “Well SORRY!” Solar Ray returned. And with that the four went to bed without a comment from Cherry Slash either.

Another siren went off the next morning around 4:00 AM. With that came the groans of annoyance from the four roommates except Frostlight, he was always an early bird. He quickly sprang out of bed and got into his training gear which was comprised of several weights attached to his hind and forelegs, and the material lining his back was weighted as well, all with a heavy, yet flexible metal. Frostlight was unsure about what it was called, and it intrigued him to feel it bend and keep in form with his body. The other three just got out of bed when Frostlight had finished gearing up, “Where do we go now?” Frostlight asked the three. “I’m…not sure to be frank…” Cherry Slash said groggily. “Maybe you should ask the sergeant at the reception building…” He added as he continued to yawn heavily. Frostlight opened the door only to be greeted by a mare in uniform. She seemed shocked to see Frostlight already in gear, but she grimaced when she saw the other three. “Attention!” She shouted. The three other roommates jumped a mile in their beds. “I’m a lieutenant Starluck! And I’m here to train you scrawny recruits how to succeed and operate in the Royal Guard!” She continued. “I see that at least ONE of you has geared up! And I don’t think you want him to show all of you up!” She ranted on. “Now, all of you finish gearing up and head down to the obstacle course marked with the number 9 ASAP!” Frostlight took that to heart and started sprinting to the obstacle course field.

Frostlight kept a steady pace and continued down the aisle of buildings that led down to the Obstacle Course Field. He followed the worn wooden signs that seemed to be withered with age, but even so it was clearly readable. He trotted by the last of the half-moon shaped barracks huts and saw a series of courses. Each had a number printed beside it on a metal sign that bore it. A series of forks in the path were worn as well and it seemed this was in fact, a very old training ground. “I see you’ve made your way here already.” A voice said behind him. Frostlight jumped from the startling voice and turned to see a stallion of a huge proportion. He had many scars lined up and down his body, and his cutie mark was covered by bandages. “You new here kid?” the stallion said. “Y-yeah…Who are you?” Frostlight said timidly. “You can call me Scar, that’s what I’m known for and what every pony else calls me. Frostlight put himself at ease now that he wasn’t startled anymore. “What do you do here?” Frostlight asked. “Anything hazardous, from testing new courses to handling chemicals. I do it all here.” He said. “What’s your real name? Frostlight asked. Scar sighed, “That name died long ago, hay I don’t even remember it. It’s probably locked in the permanent record files in the Record Room.” Scar said glumly. It seemed his gray coat and olive green mane matched his attitude. Unyielding yet moveable, and it started to unsettle Frostlight internally. “So rookie, you ready?” Starluck said coming from behind Scar.

The other three roommates of Frostlight came five minutes later. It was now Frostlight decided to examine their physical features. Quickscorch had an orange coat with a scarlet and yellow streaked mane and he had a heavy physical build. Cherry Slash had a whitish pink coat and a crimson mane that had tips of sage green at the end. She had a medium build with very strong hind legs. Solar Ray of course, he had a light build but was very swift for his size, and he had an amber colored coat with a golden mane that curled up at the end. I was a medium build with a white coat and teal mane and tail, so I’d most likely be a rival with Cherry Slash especially because we both had strength and a weakness. My flight and speed versus his brute strength and precision. He most likely was able to fly well since he was an Alicorn like the rest but he didn’t seem like the flying type despite his wings. I had a medium wing spread and my wings were very fit, but my body was indeed fit, but not as much as Cherry Slash’s. Frostlight looked over to Starluck and Scar, they both were indeed physically built, and Frostlight wouldn’t doubt that he would have to do some assignment with them at some point in his training so he thought it best that he examine them too. Starluck had an olive colored coat with a green mane and tail which both had streaks of gold lining through them. She had a medium heavy build and her wings looked powerful. Scar had his gray coat and olive green mane and tail, and his body was covered from place to place with bandages, and his size told all about his build, and it was very hefty. He looked as if he could buck a boulder hard enough to shatter it. “Alright recruits, time for your first course!” Starluck began.

The obstacle course was a three part course. First it started with several pillars you had to jump from to get to each one, the bottom was lined with shock absorbing pads that saved you if you fell. The course continued into the second part, which was made up of several walls you had to climb over. The individual walls were lined with rungs you stuck your hoof into and it made the wall be as if you had to run up it even though it was vertically set. After the series of 10 walls, each one with less and less rungs to use, in flowed into the third and final part. A spiral set of a ramp that coiled around itself, and by the ever helpful use of magic, it had a series of logs and other spherical objects rolling down it at which you either jumped over or dodged until you reached the top. The top was marked with a gold colored platform and a zip line in which you used to exit the course. “Alright, who’s first?” Starluck announced. Each member of our unit stood deathly still, and Frostlight thought he should take the initiative to make a second impression for Starluck. “I will.” Frostlight said mustering a courageous voice. Starluck raised an eyebrow, “Well, good luck to you and lucky you that these courses are made for all three species.” Starluck said with an edge to her voice. Frostlight approached the silver starting line and began to think the course out. “No wings or magic allowed!” Starluck announced to every pony. “Okay,” Frostlight began to think, “I’m the first one to go so every pony will be watching to find the best strategy to complete the course. So I should make a good impression for not only Starluck, but for my fellow Unit members.”

Frostlight stood at the silver line, waiting for his cue to start, Starluck readied her whistle, and with the whole world seeming to be on edge for Frostlight, sheer anticipation gripped his emotions tightly. Starluck blew the whistle, and Frostlight was off. He quickly ran down the ramp leading to the pillars of the first section. He leaped from pillar to pillar with ease, but in his haste he lost his balance and teetered on the fourth to last pillar, his sweat formed in beads as he struggled to maintain himself. Frostlight slowly and painfully edged himself back onto the pillar, and recovered. Next he quickly leaped from the pillar then to the next, swiftly but more cautiously. Frostlight cleared the first stage and moved the next hastily. The series of walls seemed even more intimidating up close, but Frostlight wouldn’t let it faze him. He examined the wall, he could either go up it cautiously, or he could go up it faster for a better result, but that could possibly ensue hazard to his health. Frostlight decided for the faster approach. He placed one hoof in the first rung, and used his hind legs as a kick start. He propelled himself forward and using all the dexterity he could muster, he used each rung he could reach and launched himself over the first wall. The second, third, and all the way to the eighth weren’t as easy, but they were manageable. The ninth wall posed much more of a challenge, and he still needed to get over the tenth. The rings were placed in a rhombus shape, and Frostlight needed momentum, but not too much or else he’d fall of the side of the wall. He began his start again, but reminded himself for not too much or too little momentum on the push-off. He launched himself forward, and as he reached the first corner of the rungs, he used his front hoof as leverage to wing up and used his hind legs to push off and climb to the top. Out of breathe he walked exhaustedly toward the tenth wall. He examined the wall as he regained his breath. All the rungs were scattered in the shape of a constellation, and it looked familiar to Frostlight, but he didn’t have time for this. He heaved his front hoof into the first of the iron rungs, and shot himself forward once again. He made it halfway but then he noticed the rungs were to his left and right, one had more rungs, but were in awkward positions. The other sides had fewer rungs, but were farther apart.

Frostlight decided he would need to take a risk and go for the side with more rungs, therefore he would have more rungs to use. He exerted the last reserve of his leg strength and propelled himself only on pure adrenaline and will to push on and with shaking hoofs, grabbed the needed rungs to pull himself over the wall and collapse onto the ground on the other side. Frostlight struggled back to his hooves, and breathed heavily and all the while he cursed at himself under his breath, he needed to do better and Frostlight knew it all too well. The final stage lay before him, the spiral ramp leading to the top. Frostlight knew it was going to be a challenge, especially since even if he made if, how would he get through the zip line. He examined the logs and balls rolling down the ramp. Then Frostlight noticed a pattern, it was two logs, then three balls, the one in the middle was on the left and the first and last were on the right. Frostlight felt determined, he would get this course finished, even if he passed out in the end. Frostlight trotted up the ramp slowly, and sped up as the real obstacles came his way. He sprang over the first log, then the second, the logs weren’t that thick thankfully, but they were long enough to cover the entire pathway so you had to jump over them. Next came the trio of balls. He quickly dodged left, right, then left again. And he continued this pattern on and on and with each exasperated breath, he jumped over each log with determination. Finally he reached the top, and he felt on the verge of collapse. How would he reach the bottom? He examined the zip line, it was fitted with the dreaded iron rungs, he would need some ingenuity to get down even though this was as straightforward as it gets. An idea began to form in his mind, and he put it into action. Frostlight used his wings to grip the two rungs, he may not be able to fly, but who said he couldn’t use his wings at all? Thankfully he never used his wings and with great ease, he enjoyed the ride down the zip line and gratefully heaved himself onto the ground and lie there silently in exhaustion.

Frostlight woke up from a blinding darkness that consumed his thoughts and dreams. He was in his bed in the barracks. Frostlight wondered what happened but then he realized that he must have passed out after finishing the course. Frostlight looked around the room and began to feel disappointed; he missed seeing his other roommates do the course! Then as his vision adjusted he saw each of his Unit members still asleep in their beds. Frostlight got up and trotted over to the door. Was it nighttime? Frostlight thought to himself. Frostlight opened the door and found out it was plenty day time and quickly ran out the door in haste and shut it as quietly as possible to avoid waking his Unit members. It was really bright outside and Frostlight heard the chirping of the birds somewhere out in the nearby ridges of the mountains. “Ah! I see you’re awake!” Starluck said to Frostlight’s left. Frostlight jumped but quickly recovered himself. “Why are we all asleep in there?” Frostlight asked. “You all passed out, you see the courses are created for that effect, so that you push yourself to your limit.” Starluck said happily. “So…How’d I do on the course?” Frostlight asked. “You’ll know as soon as I announce it all to your Unit once they wake up.” Starluck inquired. “So what do I do now that I’m awake and waiting for the rest of my member to wake up?” Frostlight asked. Starluck went to a modest expression, “Well, you can eat over in the café’ over there.” Starluck said as she pointed over toward a medium sized building that smelled of several aromas. “Alright then, I am starving!” Frostlight said, and with a quick wink, he trotted happily but tiredly over to the café.

Frostlight walked into the café with a smile, it was time for him to rest and eat and maybe make some friends, because he would need them throughout these next three weeks. Frostlight looked around the café, it had many light strung up on the ceiling, and the walls were of a soft but durable wood. Several motivational poster were framed on the walls encouraging recruits to never give up and try harder, Frostlight took at each to heart and trotted over to the bar stools at the counter. A bartender stood on the other side and smiled warmly to Frostlight, “Are you new here kid? Oh wait, of course you are!” he said. Frostlight smiled, he felt very welcome here. “Say, what’s your name kid?” He said. “It’s Frostlight, what’s yours?” Frostlight said. “Why Frostlight, my name’s Fizzy Smile, remarking about my bubbly and happy attitude, I work here cause I love cheering up the new recruit, and helping the discouraged back to their hooves!” Fizzy Smile said. “But a bit of advice kid, you can just call me Fiz.” Fizzy Smile said. “So what do you have for sale here?” Frostlight asked. Fiz smirked, “We don’t sell anything here, you have five credits a day here, so you spend them accordingly to what you want, and no they don’t stack up if you use them!” Fiz said. “So I could just buy anything for one credit and I get five a day?” Frostlight said. “Yep that’s correct, as long as you don’t abuse it, you know if comes straight out of the governments money.” Fiz said still with a smile on his face. Frostlight smiled back again, “Can I get some hay fries?” Frostlight asked. “Sure thing Frost, let me go get it started, you are the first to come here today.” Fiz said, and happily trotted into the back of the kitchen and started giving orders to the staff back there.

Frostlight continued to examine the room he was in, there were several tables spread out in the room, all set up with a cloth to cover it. Each table was lined up in three distinct rows and columns. Otherwise the place seemed rather plain, but it was nice. “Alright, here your hay fries!” Fiz shouted to Frostlight. “Thanks, but by the way, why do you work here and from where?” Frostlight asked. Fiz continued to smiled, “I’m from a small town south of here called Meadow Hope, and it’s very nice town and a hot spot for Alicorns like me.” Fiz said. “Ah, very interesting.” Frostlight replied. “What town are you from kid? And how in the hay did you get recruited to here?” Fiz asked curiously. “I’m from Sky Wind, it’s mostly a Pegasus town established to show the peace between the Earth ponies and the Pegasi. As for why I’m here, well I’m here because of a certain event that I’m not sure I can talk about quite yet, and I got permission from Princess Celestia to be recruited.” Frostlight said quietly. Fiz raised an eyebrow, “Hmmm, interesting, and what about that fancy bracelet around your left wing?” Fiz inquired. “Oh, that’s a piece of a prototype technology invented by the Canterlot scientists; it’s enchanted to make me be able to fly.” Frostlight said. “You mean you couldn’t fly before? Fiz asked. Frostlight forgot that no one really knew about the incident. “Well, in the certain event I went through that got me here, I fractured my wing in several places so that I couldn’t fly anymore and this bracelet is my only option.” Frostlight said gloomily. “Ah Frost, I didn’t mean to bring you down, I’m sorry I brought back bad memories…forgive me?” Fiz said solemnly. “Yeah…It isn’t your fault, you didn’t know, I forgive you.” Frostlight said. “But in any case, am I allowed to fly in my free time as long as I stay within the compound?” Frostlight asked. “Yeah anytime you’re free that is…” Fiz said. “Then I’m off!” Frostlight said, and happily cleaned up and trotted outside to test his wings once more.

Frostlight opened the exit doors from the café to be blinded by a bright light. Frostlight didn’t expect this, and it wasn’t too bright when he entered the café beforehand. As the light died down, he was greeted of the sight of Solar Ray, and his sunbeam cutie mark seemed to glow on its own. “What’s with the light Solar?” Frostlight asked. “Oh the light, sorry I thought no pony was around so I decided to exercise my magic because I haven’t used it in a while…” Solar Ray said somewhat nervously. “So how’d you do in the course?” Frostlight asked. “Fine…I did fine I guess…” Solar Ray trailed off. “You know what; I’ve got to check up on the others, to se if they’re awake yet. And with that, Solar Ray ran away towards the barracks. Frostlight felt confused, what had made him so nervous, he seemed so confident yesterday evening. Frostlight trotted over to a medium sized field and began to stretch his wings, it was time. Frostlight got in a pouncing position, and launched himself into the air with a force that made the grass wildly blow around his takeoff spot. Frostlight felt very alive at that point, to feel the air rush past his mane and seep into his coat as he soared throughout the limited sky he could fly through. He looped around and tested his enchanted wing to see if it was in working order. As he raised his elevation, he heard a faint shout come from the ground, and he quickly dive bombed down and as he reached lower heights, he slowed his descent.
A mail mare in a green uniform and an envelope shaped emblem on his side had appeared in the field where he took off into the skies. As Frostlight landed, he wondered what he was here for. “What is it?” Frostlight asked slightly impatiently, wanting to get back to the skies. “You’ve got mail from Sky Wind, and Starluck requires your presence at your barracks along with your other Unit members. Please return to her and read the message later.” He said and left in a hurry without another word. Frostlight felt confused once again, but shook the feeling and took off again, but only to go to the barracks to see what Starluck wanted.

Frostlight arrived at the porch of the barracks to see the other three Unit members lined up in a straight formation, “Get in line recruit!” Starluck shouted at Frostlight. Frostlight quickly landed and got in line. Frostlight looked at the rest of his Unit members and then himself and quickly realized no pony was wearing their gear. “You all are to gear up, and head over to the designated course in fifteen minutes…NOW!” Starluck shouted, and the four unit members quickly rushed into the barracks to change. As they geared up Cherry Slash broke the silence, “So yes if you’re wondering, I did pass out…” He said glumly “So did I” Every pony said in unison, and quickly looked at each other. “Were we meant to pass out?” Frostlight asked. “I don’t know, but those walls, they were awful…” Solar Ray said suddenly. “Did you all finish the course? “I did” Frostlight said and every pony else raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, I believe you…” Quickscorch said sarcastically. Frostlight finished gearing up and trotted outside and took off to fly over to the course so he could make it on time or hopefully early.
Frostlight arrived not a minute too soon, and saw the others arrived almost a minute later.

Starluck dismissed her displeasure and began talking, “I will give you all the results by how far you made it and at what stage.” Starluck said. She began with the one who was closer to the start, and so on till the last stage. They were named: Solar Ray, Cherry Slash, Quickscorch, and then Frostlight. Quickscorch grimaced after hearing he wasn’t first, Cherry Slash seemed disappointed, and Solar Ray was at a loss for words. “You all will be here for the next three weeks, and I don’t expect disappointment! You all may return to your barracks and sleep for the day is getting late.” Frostlight peered in the direction of the sun, it was sunset, and he was ready for the challenges to come. “Excuse me Starluck, miss, but why did we need to gear up?” Cherry Slash asked. “Well now that you ask, it was because I needed to see how fast you all would get here, and three of you were late, so all but Frostlight, run around the edge of this compound twice!” Starluck announced.

The three members groaned, and began to run toward the edge of the compound to start while Frostlight took off to the barracks. He settled into his cot, and opened the package carefully to avoid ripping the contents, perhaps and letter than was inside. Two separate pieces of paper were contained by the envelope, and Frostlight started with the first one. It read: Dear Frostlight, I hope you are doing well in Initiation and Sticks, Static, and I wish you the best in your training. We all hope you make some friends and introduce them to us, we miss you. And the letter was signed in three signatures which read: Static Sound, Cross Sticks, and Nightwind. Frostlight felt emotions stirred inside him, and he felt sad. He quickly shook the feeling wanting to feel happy again. He reached for the other envelope that was wrapped in a bright white wrapping. He tore the wrapping and revealed the letter inside, it was from Celestia. Shocked, Frostlight quickly started reading it. It read: Dear Frostlight, I’m sending you this letter with news of the creature in the Everfree Forest, there has been three more encounters in this week, so you aren’t the only one. One of the encounters a witness said there was a death involved in which a life essence of some sort was sucked out of the victim. This is the only recorded death so far, so keep training in the Guard; I know you’ll make it. Once you start the combat training which is toward the last week of your training, you will be sent one of my faithful students to enchant your bracelet once more to fit your needs. Good luck! Signed; Princess Celestia. Reading this letter gave Frostlight a bitter-sweet feeling, he was happy she had faith in him, but there was more than one incident? This had to be stopped, and Frostlight would use this as motivation for the next two and a half weeks.

Chapter 4

Chapter 4: The Protectors Blade

Two weeks and a half weeks past, and Frostlight was considerably stronger than ever. His stature had grown and so had his physical strength. He became the designated scout and flier of his group. Solar Ray became the survivalist and team leader for his intelligence of the world around him but since he also wasn’t the strongest. Quickscorch was the combat expert, and rivaled fiercely with Frostlight and Cherry Slash in combat situations. He also was good at tactics and helped Solar Ray when it came to combat tactics. Cherry Slash was the brute strength of the group and involved himself when it came to demolitions and wherever heavy strength was needed. Frostlight took pride in his newfound abilities and was ready for advanced combat training; weapons. Each unit member was assigned a weapon with the exception of Frostlight, because Starluck had received notification of Frostlight’s visitor that would enchant his bracelet once again. Frostlight sat next to his barracks door when the intercom began to speak, “Frostlight, I repeat Frostlight, report to the Reception Room, you have a visitor. Frostlight took off using his wings and landed promptly at the front door of the Reception Room. He walked in and saw the purple Unicorn who helped him get here in the first place, Twilight. “Hello again.” Twilight said smiling. “I hear you’ve been doing excellent here.” She continued. “Yeah I have, so I hear you’re here to enchant this bracelet again?” Frostlight said. “Of course, for your weapons training, if you could please steady yourself so I can focus my magic.” Twilight said. “Of course.” Frostlight said eagerly and began to tense himself so he wouldn’t move. A purple spark began to form and her horn began to glow as it did four weeks ago. A bright purple light filled the room and with a small crackle and bang, everything reverted to normal. “My work here is done, and I wish you luck!” Twilight said as she smiled, and exited out the door and into the carriage waiting for her.

Frostlight was a little confused, what exactly did she do to his bracelet? He wanted to experiment but he had to go to the weapons range and train with the others. He quickly sprinted out the door and with a jump; he took off into the air to get to the range. The range was fitted with a long to medium ranged weapons range, and several training dummies that lined up around the edge of the range itself. Another enclosed area was nearby and was fitted with a magical barrier that protected every pony from the blast, and the noise. Frostlight got into the line with his Unit members. “So, you’re all here to practice your ranged and CQC or as or know it, close quarters combat skills.” Scar began. “Above all, safety is cherished here and I don’t want any of you to endanger yourself, or any pony else you hear?!” Scar said impatiently. “Yes sir!” The ninth Unit said in unison. “Alright, you may start with the course that attains to what your weapon is, so begin!” Scar said. Solar Ray headed to the ranged weapons course, Cherry Slash headed to the Bomb range, and Quickscorch headed to the CQC area. Frostlight didn’t know where to go. “And what about you mister?” Scar said impatiently. “Sir, I got this enchantment for this bracelet that’s a weapon but I’m not sure how it’s activated, I wasn’t told how.” Frostlight said. Scar sighed. “Then figure it out, you might as well just experiment around with it, but BE CAREFUL!” Scar said, and began to supervise the bomb range first. Frostlight examined the bracelet he wore, it didn’t seem very changed at all, so he headed to the CQC range. Frostlight approached the dummy, it had a yielding expression and it seemed very passive. Frostlight focused himself and started to concentrate, nothing happened. He jumped, trotted, bucked, and many other things but nothing seemed to work.

Quickscorch looked over, “What in the hay are you doing Frostlight?” He said skeptically. “I’m trying to figure this thing out.” Frostlight said promptly. “Well could you try to look any less foolish while you’re at it?” Quickscorch said while raising an eyebrow. Frostlight sighed, he waved away at Quickscorch with his wing when suddenly, the bracelet sparked with a teal bolt of mist. Frostlight froze, what was that? Then suddenly it hit him, it was a blade that he activated by swiping with his wing. Frostlight peered at the training dummy, and with focus, he swiped his wing at it. A double edged ice blade seemed to manifest before his eye and with a single blow, he shattered the dummy as it simultaneously froze, then broke it. Quickscorch’s jaw dropped, he was completely awestruck as he saw the whole thing before his very eyes. The blade simmered as it protruded from the base of Frostlight’s wing, and just as quickly as it manifested, it dissipated. “By Celestia…” Frostlight whispered. And with that, Scar approached Frostlight from behind, “What in the hay was that? He asked stricken with confusion. “I don’t know sir, but I’ll make the best use of it.” Frostlight said breathless.

The next and last days of Frostlight’s training were amazing; he learned that the enchantment that Twilight used was related to his personality. It was a blade of cold, one that froze, then shattered his opponents it a direct blow. It practiced rigorously and found out glancing blows lacerated his opponents as well as gave them frostbite wherever the blow landed. But because of this deadly weapon, Frostlight was forced to use a wooden replica crafted by Scar to spar with his fellow Unit members in fear that Frostlight might injured or possibly kill one of them. Soon enough, it was graduation day at the initiation camp. They were known as Unit Nine, and were going to be put in the recon and special operations division also known as RSO. The four Unit members stood on the stage next to the podium at attention. Starluck began her small speech she used for all the Units she trained and graduated. She cleared her voice, “Today we are here for the graduation of Units Eleven, Twenty Seven, and Nine. These three Units have served their three weeks of training and have succeeded where other had failed. We all wish them good luck in our Princess’s service, and that they value the Princess’s life, more than their own. Good luck Unit Eleven, good luck Unit Twenty Seven, and good luck to you, Unit Nine!” Starluck said. She turned to the three Units and gave a solemn salute. “Thank you ma’am!” All three Unit’s said valiantly. And as quickly as it began, it ended and each squad was addressed by the Head of Training and Initiation. “You all will be assigned a task to start you all off, and then you will be used according to how you preform, as for Unit Nine, the Princess has a special assignment for you all. You will be escorted to the palace for briefing by Celestia herself.” He said. The whole unit gasped. “I’ve never seen the Princess before!” Solar Ray said. “It must be something very specific for our Unit.” Cherry Slash said. “No matter what, we’ll handle it.” Quickscorch said bravely. “So it begins, creature of the Everfree Forest…” Frostlight said under his breath. “What was that?” Cherry Slash asked Frostlight. “Nothing, let’s just head to the carriage.” Frostlight said, and they all trotted over to the Reception Building, to board the carriage, that was parked in front of it.

The ride to the Canterlot Palace was a smooth one, Solar Ray adored the luxury that the carriage provided including the many desserts and other foods it carried. “Quit stuffing yourself Ray, you’ll get sick before we even get there.” Quickscorch said irritated. “Calm down, I haven’t eaten anything this good in three weeks! I’m going to enjoy myself!” Solar Ray said as he continued with his eating. “I wonder what assignment we’re getting, it must be important…” Cherry Slash inquired. “Yeah it is…” Frostlight said as he peered out the window. “How do you know that?” Quickscorch said as the other two leered at Frostlight. “I uhh…well you’ll find out eventually.” Frostlight said. “Hey, what are you keeping from us!?” Quickscorch said angrily “I said you’ll find out, just wait for the briefing.” Frostlight said and looked back out the window. The other three scowled in unison and continued with their own doings.

The carriage arrived in front of the palace and all four of the Unit members wowed in awe. The palace itself was grand and very luxurious, the walls were lined with gold, red, blue, and other spectacular colors, and the glass was decorated with stained colors making intricate patterns on them. The four were escorted by the highest of the Royal Guard who had excelled in their service and were promoted to the highest position possible. The four eventually arrived in the Briefing Room, in which Princess Celestia was already there seated with a very serious expression. “Hello again Frostlight.” Celestia said. “Wait, you know her?!” Quickscorch said. “Yes I do, and you’ll find more out later.” Frostlight said still with an unyielding expression. “Now that I’ve made it through initiation, how can I help with the Incident?” Frostlight asked Celestia. “Yes, I’ve been sending team after team to conduct any recon on the creature, and several teams have come back with deathly information, and some haven’t come back at all.” Celestia said. “Wait, what in the hay is going on?” Solar Ray said nervously. “You see, four weeks ago I encountered a black fog-like creature in the Everfree Forest, and I got permission from the Princess to get a chance to join the Royal Guard and as you can see, I made it.” Frostlight explained. “Oh, so that explain why you were there to begin with! Only Alicorns get into training. Frostlight scowled at him but continued to talk. “The Princess here has been doing reconnaissance on the matter while I’ve been training, and now I’m ready for the job.” Frostlight said.

Celestia began her briefing from the beginning, starting with Frostlight’s encounter with the creature, and continued on with the other encounter events and what her recon teams could find out. “I need you all to go on a recovery mission; I sent a recon team out to some ruins that were built in the forest before it fully developed. They haven’t returned and they’re long overdue” Celestia said still in a serious tone. “We’ll get it done.” Frostlight said “Just give us a means of transport and we’ll head there immediately.” He continued. “I’m afraid you can’t go just yet, this is a dangerous mission and we are finalizing details on the plan, you all can return home and visit with loved ones, but you can’t speak about this mission, we don’t want to start a panic.” Celestia said. “Dismissed.” Frostlight’s heart sank, but then it rose again, he forgot all about his friends! It was time to see them once again. When each member exited the palace, there was four carriages ready for transport, each one designated to each member, and would take the destination order of each member. Frostlight opened his up and sat down in the seat. “Sky Wind please.” Frostlight said, and then the carriage took off. Frostlight took one more look at the Palace, and then passed out into darkness.

Frostlight awoke hours later, and the day was just dawning. The golden sun started to peek over the mountains and the clouds hung lazily in the sky, just waiting to be altered by the Pegasus Weather Team. Frostlight opened his drowsy eyes and looked out the window to see his hometown, Sky Wind just sitting nearby around a small valley of green. Frostlight was happy to be home, to see his house, his bed, and his friends. The carriage slowly made its descent down into the town and Frostlight felt his stomach drop. He wasn’t used to flying unless it was him doing it in the first place. The carriage landed softly but suddenly as they touched down onto the soft valley grass. Frostlight exited the carriage, “We’ll send you a letter when the Princess has finalized the details on the mission, but for now enjoy yourself!” The carriage pony said, and with that she took off. Frostlight looked at the façade of the town, it was still beautiful. He spread his wings and hovered above the ground, and flew into town.

Frostlight arrived home and found it was untouched from the day he left it, lucky for him Nightwind hadn’t tried to break in for anything of that matter, and he heaved himself onto the bed he loved so very much. Then a noise came from the door, and a sharp series of knocks came from it. “Hello? Frostlight please tell me that was you!” A voice said. It sounded like Static Sound, Frostlight leaped to his feet disregarding his drowsiness and rushed to the door. He swung it open to see his three best friends, waiting for his presence with a big smile.

“Hey guys! How’ve you been?” Frostlight shouted in greeting. Nightwind swerved around Static who was in front, and tackled Frostlight. “We missed you so much!” Nightwind began. “Hey, don’t break any of my wings; I’d like to keep them working!” Frostlight said out of breath from the tackle he just received. Cross Stick came next, “How did your training go? And something seems different his your bracelet you had at the hospital.” Cross Sticks said. Frostlight peered at his wing bracelet and noticed it appeared to glow a soft teal and it had his cutie mark of three snowflakes engraved upon it. “Yeah I’m fine, I graduated from initiation.” Frostlight said. “That’s great! You must be one of the few who ever graduated from Initiation and was a Pegasi!” Static Sound said unable to contain herself. “Yeah, I’m here on break, I have a mission soon and I get to stay here and hang with you guys while they finalize the details and plan.” Frostlight said. “Oh, so you won’t be here long…” Nightwind said gloomily. “No, I don’t know how long it will take for them to do that, but for now it’s time for me to catch up on what I missed around here!” Frostlight said trying to raise the mood again. “Yeah, I’d rather do that than discuss when you’re leaving!” Static said, and with that the four friends went into the market of Sky Wind.

“So what’s with your wing bracelet?” Nightwind asked. “Oh, I got it enchanted so that I can fly again, and I have a weapon I can use from it.” Frostlight said cautiously “Really?! Can we see it?” Static asked. “I would, but it’s extremely dangerous, I don’t want to hurt any pony by using it…” Frostlight said, aware of their fore coming persistence. “Really? What’s it going to do? Cut us?” Cross Sticks interjected. “No, it’ll only simultaneously freeze and then shatter your body, or possibly lacerate you and give you a nasty frost bite…” Frostlight said. “Oh…Well that’s understandable…” Static Sound said disappointedly. “Well what’s new here?” Frostlight asked. “The town got extra money from the government so we used it to construct our very own park here in Sky Wind!” Nightwind said happily. “Isn’t that great! Now we don’t have to go near that Everfree Forest ever again!” Static Sound said. Frostlight remembered his mission first, then his briefing, never tell any pony… “Yeah, it is…” Frostlight said lowly. “What was that Frostlight?” Cross Sticks asked. “Nothing really, I’m just shocked Sky Wind got some bits…” Frostlight said. The four went down the road continuously, “Did the Diner get changed at all?” Frostlight asked. “Nope, but some new staff got hired.” Static Sound said. “Ah, anything else I miss?” Frostlight asked. “Nope, just those two, and well of course you!” Nightwind said happily. “Will we ever be able to see your weapon? Even if we stay at a safe distance?” Cross Sticks asked. “I guess you guys could, but you can’t come near me, I nearly killed or seriously injured one of my Unit members…” Frostlight said hesitantly. “Or course! But we still need to meet them don’t we?” Nightwind inquired. “Yeah! What’s their names?” Static asked. “It’s Quickscorch, Cherry Slash, and Solar Ray.” Frostlight said. “What are they like?” Cross Sticks asked. “They’re good ponies, they have their flaws but they’re still good.” Frostlight said. “But tell us in detail! We want to know about your whole experience in Canterlot Initiation!” Static Sound said.

Frostlight sighed, then he started to tell them about Quickscorch’s quick temper, Cherry Slash’s strength, and Solar Ray’s intelligence, and then about his whole experience in training. The weapons training, their letters they sent, and much more. “Wow, it must of hard but fun at training!” Static Sound said. “It was, but it’s worth it, I achieved my dream job and I’ll continue to do it as long as I can.” Frostlight said. “We’re very proud of you Frostlight, so very proud…” Static Sound said as a tear formed in her eye. “And I’m thankful for your letters; they served my motivation very well in training.” Frostlight returned. They all looked at each other, and hugged in happiness that they were together once again in four weeks. “So you said you were going to help with getting rid of that monster in the Everfree Forest?” Cross Sticks asked. “Yeah, the Princess is thinking of ways to get me to help.” Frostlight said. “So that’s what your mission is about?” Nightwind said. “No not really, it’s just a starting mission to get my Unit started.” Frostlight lied. “But don’t worry, that thing will be gone before you know it!” he continued. They all smiled, “Let’s see this weapon of yours!” Nightwind said in excitement. “Okay, let’s find somewhere discreet, you know I don’t like to be the center of attention, and especially with a weapon of this magnitude.” Frostlight said and the four friends looked around for a place that was well hidden.

The four friends search around town for a suitable spot for Frostlight to show off his sword, and eventually found a small patch of forest with a clearing inside, similar to which of an ape atoll but with a forest. They gathered around Frostlight in the clearing, and the sun was starting to set. It’s golden brilliance shone over the mountains in columns of beautiful light and the animals around began to settle down in their homes, which created a silenced effect as the moments of Frostlight’s reveal began. He flicked his wing and the sword manifested before his friends’ eyes. “Please don’t come near, I don’t want to accidentally hurt you guys…” Frostlight said nervously. “Wow…It’s beautiful…” Static Sound said breathless. Frostlight’s sword glimmered in the fading sunlight and a soft teal aura surrounded it. “So that’s the weapon you were issued? What can it do?” Nightwind asked. “That’s easy Nightwind, it protects.” Frostlight said with a grin.

The three ponies admired the sword in all it’s brilliance. The sunlight had died down and the four decided it was time to go home. They started to make their way over to the edge of the clearing, when a rustling noise came from the other side of the clearing. They turned on their hooves and looked in the direction whence it came from. “Hello? Is some pony there?” Cross Sticks asked hesitantly. A pair of red eyes appeared and stared down the group of four. “No…not again…” Cross Sticks said with his breathing rate increasing rapidly. “Guys…I need you go…NOW.” Frostlight said with his eyes focused on the red pair of eyes. Cross Sticks didn’t need the memo, and turned and bolted in the other direction. Static Sound followed him, but Nightwind stood still. “Nightwind! You need to go now!” Frostlight yelled. The black fog creature began to emerge from the bushes, and slowly heaved itself toward them. “So this…is the thing that broke your wing…and took your flight?” Nightwind said with emotion leaving his voice. Tears began to form in his eyes. “To tell you the truth Frostlight…when I saw you running in the forest with Sticks…It looked like you were running from something, but it didn’t know what, it was like you were running from a ghost but…I can’t believe this.” He continued on, still with a blank expression. “Nightwind! You need to leave now! I’m the only one who can handle this at the moment!” Frostlight yelled. Nightwind’s expression turned from blank, to frustrated, then anger. “IT WILL PAY FOR TAKING MY FRIENDS FLIGHT!!!” Nightwind screamed. He charged at the creature full force with his wings in a battering ram position, covering his face. Frostlight saw him take off, and propelled himself forward with his wings and knocked Nightwind aside. Nightwind exhaled deeply upon Frostlight impact. The breath got knocked out of him, and the creature continued trudging toward them, with gaining speed. “Nightwind! I need you to get the Guard, or any pony who can help! You need to contact the Princess and tell her the creature is not only contained to the Everfree Forest!” Frostlight shouted. “But...that thing..” Nightwind stuttered. “It doesn’t matter now, I’m going to delay it, but I need you to warn the town and the Guard, this is serious!” Frostlight continued. Nightwind’s expression went dark, he surrendered to Frostlight’s command, and took off in the direction of Sky Wind.

Frostlight faced down the monster, as it charged toward him. The monster seemed to remember him and eagerly charged at him. Frostlight stood still and looked around, he had readied himself for his first move. The monster drew closer, and Frostlight readied his wings in a flaring position. As the monster was a mere ten meters away, Frostlight made his move. He used his hind legs to propel himself forward, and his wings to keep him in the air. He swerved to the right side of the monster and manifested his sword. It ripped through the monster’s side and it roared in pain. Frostlight planted his hooves on the ground and slid across the ground and slowed to a stop and turned. The monster’s blackened side shone with a translucent blue-white color. It writhed in its pain, and turned to Frostlight, its eyes burning in an everlasting red. It started to pull apart itself, forming a small, and new creature. Like before, it took on the form of a Pegasus. The fog Pegasus charged forward while in flight, Frostlight was ready. He arched his wing, and with a swift motion, swung upwards with his sword into the flight path of the Pegasus. The momentum did half the work for Frostlight, as the fog Pegasus crashed into his sword, simultaneously freezing and shattering upon impact. The shard of the slain foe lay on the ground, and began to simmer, then dissipate into the air. Frostlight turned quickly to the creature, only to be bashed by its mass and flung into a tree trunk with a THUD! Frostlight gasped out of breath upon impact, his body felt white hot with pain. He hadn’t hit the tree with his wings, but hit it with the dorsal side of his body.

Frostlight got to his feet, still unsteady. The creature drudged toward him once more, its eyes shone not red anymore, but amber. It was smaller than before, and Frostlight quickly realized that he actually had destroyed part of the creature! He knew now what he had to do, but could he last in a fight with this creature? The monster threw part of itself onto Frostlight pinning him before he could react. The creature seemed to enjoy this, and quite sadistically so. Frostlight felt weaker, and weaker, and wanted to drift into a deep, black, sleep. Then he remembered Princess Celestia’s reports. It was sucking the life force out of him! His struggled and writhed, trying to push off the monster, but it was too strong. He flicked his wing the best he could, but there wasn’t enough room for his wing to flick so he could unsheathe his sword once more. His vision went gray, his breathing went slow, and everything seemed lifeless to Frostlight. He was done, it was over. He wouldn’t be able to save the lost squad on his fist mission, he wouldn’t stop the monster, and he wouldn’t be able to see his friends anymore. Frostlight surrendered, and slowly closed his eyes, drifting away from consciousness. “Oh Frostlight, I didn’t think you’d give up that easily.” A voice said. A bright light that spoke of one thousand suns shone at the monster. It screamed in pain and dissipated into thin air. Only embers and ash remain strangely, of the black fog monster. Frostlight drifted away into blackness, letting himself go.

Chapter 5

Chapter 5: Burning Frost

Frostlight drifted into a black void, everything seemed black and lifeless. An eternal nothingness, filled only with empty. A black white, a filled empty, a lived death. It was like space, just floating endlessly, in an ocean of black nothing. The void in which Frostlight found himself was in fact to his imagination, oblivion itself. The nothing around him simmered slightly, then swirled amazingly to his imagination. Then it contracted, then squirmed and writhed, and it continued to do so, and Frostlight felt sick. He wanted it to stop, his world of nothing spun around him, continuing its confusing pattern of contracting and writhing and shifting. Frostlight stopped floating, and started to fall, into the abyss of nothing, and into the light.
Frostlight woke up screaming, his voice raspy, and cracked. The nurses and doctors around held him down. His body went into shock, as he continued to scream. “Secure him!” one of the nurses said rushing into the room with a syringe. The doctors with a bigger physical build held first his limbs, then Frostlight’s torso. The nurse made the injection and Frostlight settled into the medical bed. Breathing with increasing exasperation, he lay on the bed. The nurses checked his vital signs; they were high, but just barely stable. “Frostlight, Frostlight can you hear me?” The nurse asked. Frostlight kept gasping; in his own eyes everything was a pure white brilliance that was so white it blinded him. He struggled for breath, and could only gasp. The nurse checked his eyes, then inside his mouth. His mouth was fine, but his eyes were very dilated. She checked his lungs with a stethoscope. His lungs were at its peak, and Frostlight would soon become unstable again. “We need something to slow his breathing, he’ll go into shock again if we don’t.” The nurse said. Bloodguard walked in, “Don’t worry, he’ll be fine, give him a shot of anesthesia, then let him rest.” Bloodguard said. And as the nurse gave the injection, Frostlight’s breathing rate slowly decreased, and he went into a deep sleep.

Frostlight was calm on the outside, but his mind raced faster than ever. He felt dizzy, hot, and most of all, confused. He felt as if he was young and old at the same time, which only added to the confusion. He couldn’t stop racing through his thought, memories, and nightmares. It all seemed to mesh together at the same time and Frostlight was at the edge of insanity, and defeat. He couldn’t bear it all, but something held him back from accepting defeat quite so easily. Frostlight fell out of his mind and into reality and rose up in his bed to a state of shock. He was back to reality. He peered around the room, it was dark, and had white walls and floors. He was back in the Cloudsdale hospital once again. A series of steps came from outside the door and a series of nurses burst through the doors holding syringes and straps most likely to hold him down with. Frostlight jumped in his bed, being startled at this, but nurses froze. “Oh, you’re…okay?” One of the nurses said. “Yeah…I am, so what happened?” Frostlight asked. “You were under and we noticed your vital signs sparked up, and we ran in to see what happened…” Another nurse said. “Okay…But what was happening to my body itself?” Frostlight asked again. “We aren’t sure; we only were focused on what we could do to keep you alive.” A nurse said hesitantly. Frostlight shifted the covers, and cautiously got out of the medical bed. The nurses looked as if they were ready to pounce at him, just to catch him if he fell over.

Frostlight stood steady, but he was still weak. He walked forward timidly; still aware that he had went through a major ordeal. “I think that I’m okay for now.” Frostlight said. “Really? After all that work?” A voice said that came from behind the nurses. It was Bloodguard, he looked unchanged, but tired. “Hey, how are you?” Frostlight said happily but weakly. “I’m fine, but I’m concerned about you actually.” Bloodguard said still confused. “How exactly are you fine? You went into severe shock this morning and we’ve been on high alert just for you to get up out of bed, nearly okay and ready to check out?” Bloodguard said. “I guess so, but I’m not worried about that, but what had that creature done to me?” Frostlight said aloud. “What creature?” Bloodguard said. Then Frostlight remembered about the fog creature, and that it still was confidential information. “Nothing, I was dreaming I guess…” Frostlight trailed off. Bloodguard looked confused, and gave him a look of suspicion. “Can I report to the Princess now?” Frostlight asked, trying to change the subject. “Why?” Bloodguard asked. “Because I have information to report, and I can’t talk about it, and I NEED to tell the Princess now.” Frostlight said, standing his ground. “Fine, we’ll contact her.” Bloodguard said, then strode out of the room.

Frostlight got back into his bed and lay down quietly, he was in such a mess, and now things would only get worse. The creature wasn’t contained only to the Everfree Forest, and it was spreading from each forest to the next. The memories of whenever the creature had attacked him returned. Frostlight wasn’t sure how long he had been out, if it was just a night, or a week. Then he remembered, the bright light that had surrounded him when the creature was about to kill him. It was stealing his life force, and Frostlight got away before it did, and it almost cost him his sanity. Frostlight looked at the ceiling blankly, he was lost in thought, not knowing what he could do just yet. The doors opened and the Princess walked in. “Hello Frostlight how was the fight?” Celestia asked happily. “Was that you? That saved me?” Frostlight asked. “No, it wasn’t, that was your unit member Solar Ray. We got contacted from your friends and immediately pulled out your team to rescue you. Solar Ray used his light, Quickscorch and Cherry Slash helped bring you in for medical attention.” Celestia said calmly. “The creature…was killed in the light; I think I know its weakness.” Frostlight said. “And that is?” Extreme light and cold…” Frostlight said weakly. “So it seems, but are you sure you didn’t kill it, only weaken it?” Celestia asked. “I’m not sure, but have you found out what they are?” Frostlight asked. “Yes I have, it dates back to the founding of Equestria itself. They are Miasma Beasts; they prey upon the weak, and corrupt the powerful. I’m not sure what they came from, but legends date back to then, but actual sightings haven’t been recorded.” Celestia said. “So that would explain a lot in the recent events…” Frostlight said. “When you are ready, we will return you your bracelet that Twilight enchanted, its over in Sky Wind, at the local security Bit Bank. We are going to run some tests on your weakness theory on the Miasma Beasts, and see what we can use.” Celestia said. “Thank you” Frostlight said, and the Princess went out of the room.

Several hours later Frostlight got a huge surprise. He was visited by his Unit members, trainer from Initiation, and most of all, his friends. They all gathered around him in his dorm room. “Hey we all came to see how you were holding up kid.” Scar said. “Yeah, Fizzy Smiled wanted to come, but he had too many duties to attend to, and you’d be amazed at all he really does.” Starluck said. “We all wanted to make sure you were okay anyways, so how’ve you been doing Frost?” Nightwind said. “I could ask you guys the same!” Frostlight said happily. “I’m fine, but we’re worried, you potentially saved every pony in Sky Wind, because that thing could have attacked town!” Cross Sticks said. “Yeah, we would have been in some serious trouble!” Static Sound exclaimed. “No problem, but there are more of those things out there.” Frostlight said. “How do you know?” Starluck asked. “Well you see, that thing could break off a part of it, and morph into anything it wanted to, so wouldn’t do that to repopulate?” Frostlight said. Scar’s expression went dark, “This is bad, really bad.” He said. “And it’ll only get worse if we don’t do something big.” Frostlight said. “That thing will eventually attack a town, and the ponies inside will die if we don’t stop it.” Frostlight continued. “You’re right, it’s time we go in and get rid of it.” Static Sound said. “It’s not that simple, as it seems right now that only cold and light to an extreme degree can kill it.” Frostlight said. “Well lucky us we’ve got both of those.” Solar Ray said. “Yeah, but I think it’s time we sent in teams to destroy that thing.” Quickscorch said. “I agree with Scorch.” Cherry Slash said. “Well let’s ask Celestia, I’m sure we’ll think of a plan.” Starluck said.

The next morning Frostlight was deemed healthy by the Cloudsdale Hospital, and was released that morning. A carriage greeted Frostlight outside. Apparently she wanted an audience with Frostlight and Solar Ray. Frostlight boarded the carriage to see Solar Ray already inside. “The Princess wants to form a plan of extermination with us considering my smarts and our destroying powers.” Solar Ray said. “What about the team we we’re going to save?” Frostlight asked. “Celestia switch us out and put a different Unit in for the recovery, they are on the way to recover the team now.” Solar Ray said. And then the doors closed and the carriage took off. “What do you have in mind for the plan?” Frostlight asked. “Well we could surround entire forests and enclose on them in search of the Miasma Beasts, then destroy them as quickly as possible.” Solar Ray said. “Sounds good, but shouldn’t we send recon teams out to find contaminated forest, then enclose the infected ones to save fighting forces and use our time efficiently?” Frostlight asked. “Sounds good as well, let’s take that to Princess Celestia.” Solar Ray said.

The carriage arrived promptly at the gates of the Canterlot Palace. Frostlight and Solar Ray were once again escorted to the Briefing Room, where they would present their plan to the Princess. “Princess Celestia, we’ve come up with ideas for exterminating the Miasma Beasts.” Frostlight said. “Go on…” Celestia said. “We’ve concluded that we send recon teams to each forest in Equestria, and search and mark for the Miasma Beasts, and with each infected forest, we send in teams to destroy them by surrounding the forest, and enclosing on the center of the forest to ensure the extermination of the Beasts.” Solar Ray explained. “It sounds viable, but we’ll have to resort to using much of the Guard for this, even recruits.” Celestia said. “We could ration out the higher ranking Units to each forest to ensure some pony of experience and rank is helping the recruits.” Frostlight suggested. “Sounds like a plan, I guess I’ll send recons teams out, but there are many forests throughout Equestria, we’ll have to send in Special operation squads, including you.” Celestia said. “Just tell us where to start searching.” Frostlight began. “Well we know that the Everfree Forest and possibly the Sky Breeze Forest near Sky Wind is possibly contaminated. I’ll send you there first and check to see how much of the forest is infected, and how many Miasma Beasts you can find.” Celestia said. “We’ll do our best, I’ll assemble the team, just give us the means of transport.” Solar Ray said. “Of course, but I can’t tell you my back-up plan, but if it comes to it, you’ll be in charge of warning every pony.” Celestia said expressionless. “Good luck.”

Solar Ray and Frostlight once again boarded a carriage and took off to go pick up the other two members. “What did she mean about her back up plan?” Frostlight asked timidly. “I don’t know what it is, but it probably involves a mass strike against the Beasts of some sort, considering the fact she said we’ll be in charge of warning every pony.” Solar Ray inquired. “Sounds horrible, let’s make sure it doesn’t come to that.” Frostlight said. “Yeah, let’s just focus on the present and how we can help build it for tomorrow.” Solar Ray said, and they stayed silent for the rest of the ride as they picked up Cherry Slash.
The four members landed at the edge of the Sky Breeze Forest. “So what is the plan?” Quickscorch said. “Well, we’re here to scout out the forest, so our best bet is to stay quiet and make sure we don’t disturb any of the Miasma Beast that is possibly in the area.” Solar Ray said. “Got it.” Quickscorch and Cherry Slash said in unison. The four entered the forest, slowly at first, but picked up the pace after Frostlight remembered they were on the clock for this. They scoured around the forest, searching around each tree carefully, but nothing seemed out of place, just like a normal forest. The four members regrouped back together from the original groups of two. “Nothing that I can find so far.” Frostlight said disappointingly. “Yeah, it seems that was the only Miasma Beast in the forest, we might as well report that the forest is clear.” Cherry Slash said. The four continued their trek out of the forest when Frostlight noticed something. “Hey, have you guys noticed that each tree has a dark spiral slash on it?” Frostlight said nervously. The four looked around and noticed it too. It seemed a dark spiral slash about 10 centimeters wide and long was on the occasional tree. “How did we not notice this earlier?” Solar Ray said. “I don’t know, but something’s up.” Quickscorch said.

The four trotted from tree to tree, finding more often than not, that the tree had the same mark. It was confused for the four ponies, and eventually they found a cluster of rock set in a formation that formed the same symbol that was on the tree. “Hey guys, doesn’t this place look familiar?” Solar Ray said nervously. It hit Frostlight like a brick wall, “Guys, this is the place I fought the Miasma Beast earlier this week!” Frostlight shouted. Just as he finished the sentence, the ground shuddered. “I think we’d better leave, now!” Cherry Slash said getting anxious. The ground started to form cracks and fissures in it, around the rock formations. The four members ran out of the vicinity as fast as they could, “I think the forest is at its peak for infection to create more of those beasts!” Quickscorch said as they sprinted through the forest. The path was rugged and with all the vines and overgrown roots sticking out of the ground, it was hard to maintain momentum. “I think you’re right on that one Scorch!” Frostlight shouted as they continued to run. The tree behind them started to crack and creak with noise of a thousand gunshots. Frostlight looked behind them and saw the clearing of rocks from whence they came was covered in a black fog, with tentacle like protrusions coming out of it.

“We need to warn the town!” Frostlight shouted. “No disagreement with you there Frost!” Cherry Slash said, with his voice starting to rise in pitch. They finally burst out of the forest and into the clearing. “Cherry Slash and Quickscorch, I need you guys to go warn the Guard, me and Frostlight will warn the town and help defend it if needed. “Right!” Quickscorch and Cherry Slash said in unison and took off on their wings. “We’d better go!” Solar Ray said. “But Ray, I don’t have my bracelet, I can’t fly or fight without it!” Frostlight said. “We’ll get it after we warn the town!” Solar Ray shouted. “You know what? I’m not arguing, let’s just go!” Frostlight said, and sprinted toward the town.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6: Doomsday Impending

Frostlight and Solar Ray decided it best to split up and warn the town in halves. Frostlight would warn the east, and Solar Ray the west side of town. Frostlight galloped over to the residential part of town. “Hey every pony! I need every pony to evacuate the town, there is an imminent threat that is coming to this town!” Frostlight shouted. Every pony stood there and stared. “I’m serious! This is either do or die!” Frostlight said with regret in his voice. Everything happened at once, first the ground shook, and then every pony panicked and ran, several taking up shelter inside and others running for the hills and most likely the next town. Cracks started to spread from the forest and halted at the town’s edge. The Miasma Beast had already arrived.

Frostlight began to look around for the most secure place he could find. He spotted a nearby Bit Bank and started to shout, “Come on every pony! Follow me!” And he guided several bystanders and civilians to the Bank hoping that the reinforced doors and security would help defend against the Miasma Beast. Every pony including Frostlight gathered inside the bank. “What IS that thing?!” Some pony shouted. “What’s going to happen to us?!” Another shouted. Everypony was shouting their questions at Frostlight since he seemed to be the only one knowing what was going on. “Quiet every pony!!!” Frostlight shouted at the top of his lungs. Every pony quieted, “Don’t worry, as long as we can secure this building and wait, help WILL come, I’ve already sent two Alicorns from the Guard to Canterlot to request help, so please help me secure this bank!” Frostlight shouted. Every pony quickly scrambled around the rooms with great haste, trying to use any object to barricade the doors. “Does any pony know how to get in the back of the bank?” Frostlight shouted amidst the crowd of scrambled ponies. No answer, it seemed no one here worked here. The walls started to shudder and every pony went quiet. The movement had almost instantly stopped and the room was dead silent. The walls continued to shudder, and the doors started to creak. BANG! The doors started to get beaten upon. The Miasma Beast had started to try to break the door along with its barricade down! BANG!

The noise was deafening, the ponies had done a good job at barricading the doors, but the noise said that the creature had immense strength. It would be only five minutes before they broke into the place. What could he do? The barricade wasn’t the sturdiest things ever and he had nothing to defend myself or the others. The door began to splinter and crack with a deafening noise. They were almost inside! Frostlight began to think, what would Nightwind do? He was trapped and doomed to die, but then he saw something glint in the corner of the room…Yes! It was his bracelet, but it was behind the front desk sitting on top of the reception desk. It was divided by a glass wall that had slots to make deposits and receive withdraws.

“Some pony! I need a strong pony to help me break down the glass!” Frostlight shouted. The doors started to splinter. “I’ll help!” Some pony shouted. “Me too!” said another. Frostlight and two other ponies stood with their flanks at the glass wall. “Okay, together now!” Frostlight shouted. And in unison, they all bucked at the glass. The glass cracked slightly, about 3 centimeters. “Again!” Frostlight shouted. They continued to buck over and over, and the door only got weaker. The two other ponies were exhausted, but Frostlight kept kicking because of his high endurance. His hooves started to throb with pain, but he didn’t care, it was either break this down to get the bracelet, or die along with the rest of the towns ponies. Frostlight wasn’t about to let that happen. He bucked over and over until finally, the glass shattered. “What did this accomplish?” Some pony asked Frostlight. “You’ll see soon enough.” Frostlight said tiredly. He walked toward the bracelet and slipped it onto his wing. “You only wanted a stupid bracelet!? In our moments of death you just couldn’t stop yourself!?” Some pony shouted from the crowds. “Shut up! Now’s not the time, every pony stand at the back wall opposite of the doors.” Frostlight shouted. Every pony did exactly so without hesitation. Frostlight positioned himself a couple meters away from the door. The door cracked open, and the beast’s tentacles poured through…

Frostlight didn’t hesitate, since he knew now what he was up against. He flicked his left wing, and his blade unsheathed itself. He had his flight, and his blade, and he was going to protect the town and its residents even if it cost him his life. The tentacles of the Miasma Beast began to tear on the door trying to open it fully. Frostlight leaped over and hammered down on the tentacles of the beast with all his might. The tentacle did the expected, and shattered upon impact. The creature roared from the outside of the bank, and put more tentacles into the door, releasing its doppelganger like creature inside. Frostlight saw the creatures form into Alicorns this time, and one into a Manta core. The first Alicorns charged at Frostlight, but he quickly dodge rolled to the right and upon recovery unsheathed his blade and swung it at their sides, instantly vanquishing his foes of darkness. Only four Doppel-Alicorns remained at the door, seemingly guarding it, and the Manta core started to charge at him. “Every pony finds somewhere to hide!” Frostlight shouted as he faced down his opponent. No pony hesitated and ran in search of cover or a hiding place. The Manta core neared Frostlight and he charged too, veering to the right. The Manta core saw this and swung his claws to the right. Frostlight suddenly stopped before he ran into the range of the claws, and sprinted down under the Manta Core. He raised his left wing vertically and the blade started to slice at the creature’s underbelly.

It roared in pain, which was very similar to a roar of a normal Manta core, but it seemed distorted somehow. The underbelly froze solid, but didn’t shatter. The beast remained still, it could move its limbs, but if it moved its belly it would shatter, and be a means of death. Frostlight took advantage of this and bucked at its underbelly with full force, shattering the belly of the Manta Core, and it dissipated into the air, but some of the fog remained, and seeped toward the door. Frostlight ran toward the fog and swung down on it. The fog became a floating ice crystal, and dropped to the floor, shattering upon impact. Frostlight turned back to the door to only see six more Doppel-Alicorns had developed. Three of them started to run at Frostlight again. Frostlight flew up to the ceiling and the Doppel-Alicorns followed. Frostlight swept down from the air before they collided and did a perfect barrel roll while under them, killing each one subsequently in a rapid succession. Frostlight landed and began running forward using his momentum to carry him faster. He quickly approached the other three creatures and as he saw about to swing, a stray tentacle whipped up and swung at him, knocking him clears across the floor. The ponies in the back gasped in horror. Frostlight got back to his hooves, seeing that the creatures had multiplied once more, but there was ten now. Frostlight got himself ready, he realized that he wouldn’t be able to kill the Miasma Beast unless he was in a more open environment because the creature only had to protect the door to protect itself from him.

Frostlight sighed silently to himself in defeat, he wouldn’t be able to kill the creature, but he was going to keep fighting until the end, all he needed was the Guard to show up. It was night outside too, so even if he found a way out, he would need light if he ever wanted to see the creature which he fought. The doppel-alicorns closed in once again, and Frostlight fought them, tearing through each one with his blade, but only to have four more to fight later on. Frostlight was fighting a losing battle; it wasn’t a battle of prowess, but one of endurance. A series of battles past, Frostlight was exhausted, how big was this Miasma Beast? It could only make doppelgangers from parts of itself, so it had to be smaller by now since Frostlight had been destroying each of its minions. The crowd in the back was more worried than ever, not only were they unarmed, their only protector was getting tired despite his efforts. Frostlight wasn’t about to give up, but his body could only go on for so long. Several more doppel-alicorns surrounded Frostlight. Frostlight looked around, he was encircled, just like the Guard had planned for the Miasma Beast, it felt ironic to him. “Not…today…” Frostlight gasped out. And with all he had, he did a full circle swing with his blade and vanquished all of the six creatures around him. Frostlight collapsed onto the ground, out of breath, but still conscious. More of the dreaded creatures formed at the door, and started to pace over to Frostlight. He tried to get to his hooves but it was no use. He’d been fighting for a long time now and couldn’t budge another inch. Where was the rescue he had been waiting for? Where was help when he needed it most? It felt so defeating to Frostlight, he bit his lip in frustration. Frostlight closed his eyes, accepting this fate, but silently hoping that some sort of help would come. And it did.

As the creatures pounced at Frostlight so he could receive a death blow, the doors burst open, not with the Miasma Beast, but with the brightness of the sun. The creature screamed in the air and dissipated like steam into the air. Columns of light flooded the room and every pony shielded their eyes in shock and because of the brightness of the light. A figure appeared in the door, and two others ran over to Frostlight to help him up. It was his unit, Quickscorch and Cherry Slash, and not to mention Solar Ray who came at the last second. Frostlight chuckled at himself; it seemed so story-like. Like the hero had been saved at the last moment of climax. “Let’s go every pony! We’re evacuating the last of you guys!” Cherry Slash said hastily. “Follow me!” Solar Ray shouted. “Come on; let’s get out of here Frost.” Quickscorch said quietly to Frostlight. Frostlight with the aid of Quickscorch, limped out of the building and toward the Relief Camp nearby the town. The Miasma Beast was roaring in the background as the Guard fought it. It was the biggest one ever seen, that was tall as a ten story house. Morning dawned on the town, and the sunrise intensified the light magic being used on the Miasma Beast. “What…where are the people from the bank?” Frostlight said tiredly. “They’re fine Frost, you just get some rest, and you’ve done more than your part here today.” Quickscorch said, and left the tent in which Frostlight rested in.

Frostlight passed out and awoke hours later, he had been up all night and had protected the towns ponies from the beast. He looked around and saw a Royal Guard member at the flap in the front of the tent. “Hey your Majesty, he’s awake!” He shouted outside the tent. Princess Celestia walked in several moments later. “It seems you stayed true to the ponies in the town Frostlight, I can’t say I’m not impressed.” Celestia said. “I said I’d help, and I promised I’d protect them not only to them, but to myself…” Frostlight said groggily. “And I’m proud of you for that. You weaken that Miasma Beast quite considerably, and we destroyed it about an hour ago. I’ve sent out recon teams to find other infected forests, but it seems that was the mother of all the Beasts, we can only guess how many ponies’ life forces it had absorbed…” Celestia said. “Does that mean the other creatures will die with it?” Frostlight asked. “As it seems, no reports of abnormalities so far, so I think they had a hive mind, and you helping destroy its main hub.” Celestia said happily. “Good…” Frostlight said relieved, and laid back down in his bed. “By the way, you have some visitors…” Celestia said. Frostlight’s thee friends, Nightwind, Static Sound, and Cross Sticks appeared in the flap. Static jumped on top of Frostlight, “I’m so glad you’re safe! We thought you might have died!” Static Sound said holding back tears. The other two trotted over to his bedside. “Thanks for everything Frost…” Nightwind said happily “Just doing my job my friend…” Frostlight said. “Also, what WAS the back-up plan?” Frostlight asked Celestia. “Oh, you’ll know in due time Frostlight, all in due time…

Epilogue

Princess Celestia’s scouts ended up finding more Miasma Beasts in several forests, though they seemed disoriented and confused, and were easily slain. Frostlight on the hand proceeded to get several medals for his valor and devotion and passed through the ranks of the Guard considerably fast. He became not only an inspiration to Pegasi, but to Earth Ponies and Unicorns as well, encouraging them to try to pass Royal Guard initiation. Frostlight eventually joined the trainers at the initiation camp and helped train the new recruit and came through. He eventually found out what Celestia’s backup plan was. It was a last resort plan called “Blazing”, which involved Princess Celestia using her magic to focus the sun’s rays to burn down all the forests, to prevent the spreading of the Miasma Beasts. Frostlight continued to live in Sky Wind and had a statue made for him, and continued to have a good friendship with his three best friends. His other three squad mates also progressed through the ranks and spread the stories of Frostlight’s valor, spirit, and pure devotion to get rid of the Miasma Beasts. New bracelet prototypes were made to assist to new recruits in combat and other skills to further achieve new levels of enchantments, and technology. Nightwind, Static Sound, and Cross Sticks finally had succeeded in the music business, and were eventually only rivaled by the musical talent of DJ-Pon3, and Octavia. They also eventually found a singer for the band by the name “Silent Eclipse.” Princess Luna also went into the study of the Miasma Beasts, to find out where exactly they came from, and if it had corrupted her in the past.

Written and plotted by: Dominik ******* (AKA: RemedyofRevenge)