Twice an Alien

Ch. 8 Races, Realizations, and Revelations Pt.2

“You know what’s going on?” A very confused Luna asked me.

“As I have now confirmed that I have two lifestreams I can finally say that I do indeed know what’s going on. I will no longer dance around your questions. Feel free to ask whatever you wish and if I deem it not dangerous to my job I will answer.”

“How can you have two lifestreams?” Asked Celestia. “By the very nature of parallel universes that should be impossible.”

“An excellent starting question Celestia. I have two lifestreams because I have been pulled from my lifestream and thrust into your's by what my people call the ancient ones. They are supposedly the original protectors of my people that decided to send us to other planets so that we may defend those in the greatest need of our services. I do not pretend to understand their decisions or thought process. My mother always said trying to understand being’s of such great power was an exercise in uselessness.”

“Wait, who are your people and what is your job?” Asked Twilight. “I thought you said you were a human from a planet called Earth?”

I smiled. “As sharp as ever I see Twilight.” She smiled at my praise. “I suppose I’ll have to start at the beginning to answer this question. What I told you about being a human is true. However before I am a human, I am something called a protector. My mother was originally not from Earth. While I don’t know the name of the planet she hailed from I do know that my species is called the protectors.”

“My mother originally lived on the protector homeworld until she was transported from it onto a world called Earth. Earth is ruled by an interesting species called humans. Humans are an extremely diverse technologically inclined species. As they have no magic they’ve used these technical inclinations to develop many advanced pieces of equipment to make up for this magic deficit.”

“For magic to become dangerous, generally one must be trained in it’s use over a long period of time. Advanced spells usually require even further study and beings of especially large magic reserves. This is unlike advanced pieces of human technology which can be created and then mostly used by anyone who can get their hands on them. As the humans develop faster and more efficient machines to create this technology even more people can get theirs hands on it. Sadly this has lead to unintended consequences.”

“Some of this technology is truly wondrous and can save untold numbers of human lives.” I grimaced. “Others are weapons created with the sole purpose of ending as many lives as quickly and efficiently as possible. The problems start occurring when angry humans get their hands on these pieces of equipment. With as diverse and densely populated as the humans of Earth are it’s not surprising that conflict between them emerges quite often. Once they start fighting it only takes a few humans with these weapons before the atrocities of war begin.”

I sighed and looked down for moment. Steeling myself once more I looked up and said, “My mother believes she was sent to Earth to protect the humans from themselves. She’s told me numerous times that the humans have such an amazing amount of potential within them. If they would only use their diversity to create rather than find reasons to destroy each other. Mother is attempting to guide the humans towards a peaceful and prosperous future from the shadows.”

“Eventually while on Earth mother found a lover and as a result, I was born. For most of my life I believed I was destined to stay with my mother and help guide the humans. A few days ago when I came here I thought It had been a random accident and that I needed to find a way back to Earth. This land seems so peaceful and I can’t think of any reason why your planet would need one such as myself. Sadly Celestia has confirmed that this is no accident and I am now stuck on this planet.”

“Sadly!” yelled an affronted Rarity. “I remember you telling me how wonderful you thought Equestria was the other day! Considering your previous words it’s rather rude to act like being stuck in Equestria is now a burden.”

“Hold on there Rarity.” I said bowing my hand and holding up a hand. “I meant no offense by what I just said. I still believe Equestria is just as wondrous a land as I described the other day. It is because of this reason that I say that it’s too bad i’m stuck here. Generally when a protector is sent to a new planet it means harsh times are soon to befall said planet. It’s because I cherish this land and it’s people that I’m sorry I have been sent here.”

Rarity looked down sadly. “I’m sorry for jumping to conclusions Cicero. All this new information at once has thrown me out of my element. As flustered as I am I completely forgot how much of a gentle coat you’ve been so far. I should have known you wouldn’t insult us like that.”

“It’s alright Rarity. To be fair you’re quite within your right to assume the worst of me right now. I have hidden quite a few things about myself since I’ve been here. No matter what reason I had for doing so the fact still remains.”

Rarity smiled back at me. “Perhaps you haven’t been entirely honest with us since you’ve arrived here but your words just now show you’re still the upstanding gentle coat I took you for originally.”

I nodded. “Thank you for your continued trust Rarity.” Looking back to the whole group I said, “Now you know who I am and why I believe I’m here. I have a request of you again Celestia. Would you hear me out?”

“Go ahead Cicero.” She said now recovered and back to her original regal posture.

“Would you be so kind as to cast that lifestream detecting spell again? Now that you know I have two streams I was hoping you could take a closer look at them. If what my people say is correct you should be able to detect that one is fading while the other is getting much stronger.”

Celestia said nothing as she walked over to me, closed her eyes, and calmly placed her horn to my forehead again. I felt the same sensation of magic spreading through my body again. This time I felt Celestia retract the magic much more slowly out of my body and back into her horn.

A few moments after the magic had left my body she spoke. “It’s as you said Cicero. I can feel one lifestream in your body becoming stronger while the is fading and becoming harder to detect. It’s almost as if one of them is absorbing the other into itself.”

“That’s actually not to far off of what I’ve been taught would happen. According to the knowledge passed down to me from my mother the weak lifestream is my original universe’s lifestream while the stronger one is this universe’s. Eventually my original lifestream will completely fade and I will only have this universe’s.”

“Amazing,” Twilight whispered. “If what princess Celestia and my studies have told me is true then jumping between lifestreams should be impossible. Even with the combined powers of the princesses something like that should be fundamentally impossible.”

I smiled at her observation. “This is why mother always told me trying to understand the ancient ones was useless. If we can’t even understand how they do the impossible then how can we hope to grasp their reasoning. I learned a long time ago to simply accept some things and go along with the flow of life.” I could see Twilight frowning at my words.

“I understand this is a hard concept for a scholar such as yourself to accept Twilight. I won’t advise you to not to study the ancient ones reasoning or how their powers work. I simply request that you don’t loose yourself to this quest should you choose to pursue it. Mother mentioned that some of my people have spent their entire lives trying understand these things and have yet to find answers. Of course I’ll help you in any way I can, if you wish. I once desperately wished to understand my people's fate and pursued this knowledge as well.”

Twilight seemed to take my words into consideration and gave me a smile to show she understood. “Now back to you princesses.” Both Celestia and Luna looked at me. “Based on what I’ve gathered I know that jumping lifestreams is impossible for living creatures even with your combined powers, correct?” They both nodded at me. “What about non living things? Do you think you might have enough power to send object's back and forth between universes. My mother mentioned that a lot of the technology the protector homeworld has was given to us by other civilizations protectors have been sent to safeguard.”

Celestia and Luna looked at each other and then walked a few feet away from us. They seemed to be whispering quite intensly to each other. After a good minute of them whispering back and forth they eventually nodded together at something and came back over to me. “Sister and I have discussed what you asked and have come to the conclusion that sending objects between universe’s should be possible.” Said Luna. “It will most likely require a very large amount of our power and concentration but it can be done.”

“Excellent! Alright then I was ho-” “BUT!” Luna interrupted me. “While we can easily see that you are trusted by the elements of harmony we have no way to verify anything you’ve said thus far. After seeing you battle the manticores yesterday the only thing we do know is that you have an immense amount of power. We wish to know the extend of your powers before we start trusting you around our subjects. Let alone start helping you.”

“Damn. I was really hoping you wouldn’t ask something like that. Unfortunately this is one of those questions I am unable to answer fully, based on my belief that it might impede my duty here on Equestria.” Luna seemed angry that I wouldn’t answer her question while Celestia only appeared pensive.

“One thing I can tell you that might ease your worries is that I do not possess any magical abilities at all. All skills that I possess are physical in nature. I’m afraid that’s all I’m willing to tell you after what you’ve already seen me do in the forest the other day.” Luna looked like she about to give me a scathing tongue lashing once I’d finished talking. Fortunately I was saved from it when Celestia flung out her right wing and blocked her sister from me.

“Very calmly she said, “Cicero why do you believe telling us about your powers would negatively affect your mission here? If i’ve understood you correctly so far then you’re here to protect the ponies of Equestria from some type of harm. As the rulers of Equestria wouldn’t it make sense to trust and work with Luna and myself?”

I could see Celestia was metaphorically extending an olive branch to me in the hopes that we could work together. From the way the girls had talked about the princesses all week I knew that they really trusted them and though they were both great ponies. I knew it would be easier to completely trust them and tell them all about myself but my training prevented me from doing so. Other protectors had learned the hard way that absolute power corrupts absolutely. I guess I could at least try to meet Celestia half way.

“Celestia I want to trust you and open up but unfortunately my training prevents me from doing so. Since you’ve extended an olive branch to me I’ll do the same. One other ability that protectors have is the power to transfer visions between each other. This is actually one of my people's greatest strengths. Whenever a protector dies the last things they saw before expiring are somehow transferred to a giant repository of memories on our home planet. How this is happens is but another one of the mysteries that the ancient ones have left us with.”

“Even though we don’t understand how it happens we have found a way to utilize these memories. Every person on my home planet is given these memories in an effort to train them in case they are transported to a planet that needs their help. Since my species doesn’t have magic and yet still has to deal with others that do we use this accrued knowledge to discover new ways to combat magic users and other threats we might encounter.”

“To get back to the original point I will say that one of the visions my mother passed down to me prevents me from trusting those in power, such as you and your sister. Many of my people have found that those in power on their assigned planet are the threat they had been sent to stop.” I looked down sadly. “So many of my people have met gruesome ends when they forgot this simple lesson.”

“So you’re saying that protectors have the ability to pass these visions amongst one another, correct?” queried Celestia.

“Correct.” I said.

“Then do you think it’s possible to pass these visions to someone else that isn’t a protector? If you could simply pass the vision you mentioned before to Luna and myself then we would at least be able to verify your claims of being a protector as you say you are.”

I had to admit, it was a very good idea. Passing visions to someone who isn’t a protector shouldn’t be a problem and it would give my claims a pretty solid backing. Still…… I was hesitant to make anyone live through the visions. As I’d had thousands of visions given to me by my mother I was used to their effects at this point. But I still remembered how truly unsettling the visions had been when I’d just started. The first one had by far been the absolute worst.

“Celestia while it is possible to pass you two that vision I must state that I am completely against the idea. I feel as though I didn’t explain these visions well enough when I mentioned them before. I don’t just see what happens to the other protectors, I live their last moments in the vision. That means I have to experience every single horrible fate that has befallen every protector in every vision I was given.”

“Th-that’s awful.” said a very distraught sounding Fluttershy. I looked over to see her sniffling as she let a few tears fall down from her eyes. My heart broke when I saw her and realized this was exactly what I had been afraid would happen if the girls stayed. Walking quickly over to her I bent down and pulled her into another hug. I could hear her sniffling into my shoulder.

“Fluttershy I’m so sorry you had to hear that. This is why I was afraid to let you girls stay. I didn’t want any of you to deal with the realities of being a protector.” I took a deep breath and stroked Fluttershy’s back. “While the first vision was indeed terrible, over time I eventually learned to ignore the protectors end and simply take in the lesson the vision had been trying to teach me. While it’s not an experience I particularly enjoy I recognize that every lesson I learn this way will be permanently ingrained in my head. This is the price my people pay for the knowledge of past protectors.”

“Why would anyone choose to pay that price over and over?” Asked Luna. “I could understand passing a few critical lessons down this way but to do it thousands of times just seems cruel.”

I let out a dark chuckle. “The only thing more horrible than the visions are some of the fates that befell the protectors in them. Even as wise as you and your sister are I doubt either of you have any idea how powerful and cruel some of the others species that exist are. Protector bodies may strong, agile, and adaptable, but sometimes this isn’t nearly enough. If a protector fails in their duty then hundreds, thousands, or possible even millions might die.”

“As protectors my species is not allowed to fail, no matter what we end up facing. Our combined knowledge is the answer to this dilemma. Armed with the lessons that others have died to teach us we fight every enemy we come across as one people. So if the discomfort of the visions can possibly train me enough to complete my duty, then so be it.”

“But what about the effects of these visions of current protectors?” Asked Celestia. “Aren’t you concerned that your people will become desensitized or callous to the idea of killing and death? Aren’t your people afraid of becoming what they hope to protect against?”

Once more I let out a dark chuckle. Celestia seemed mildly concerned at this reaction to her fears. “I’m sorry for laughing Celestia it’s just that i’ve only ever seen that happen once or twice in the thousands of visions I’ve been given. It’s hard to explain unless you’ve experienced one of the visions before but after seeing all of the horrible things the universe’s have to offer I find it hard to believe that any protector would ever want to contribute to it.” I continued to rub fluttershy’s back in silence for a few moments. Eventually I decided to speak once more.

“Usually only two things happen after a protector has been given the visions. One: They become a fully fledged protector with generations of knowledge and drive to protect the innocents of the universe. Two: They break. A lot of potential protectors that were given the visions at some point could no longer handle all of pain and death they experienced. Most usually stop when they realize they can’t handle anymore and never complete their training. However an unfortunate few choose to try pushing through the pain and end up breaking their minds. Mother says this is why our home planet still has any people on it. The ancient ones are wise enough to recognize which of us are fit enough to become protectors on other planets while they leave our incomplete and broken people alone.”

It was dead silent after I finished speaking. The only sound in the room came from the quiet noises my hand made as I rubbed fluttershy’s back. Finally a minute later I looked back at Celestia and Luna and spoke. “After all I’ve told you two are sure you still want this vision?” Celestia and Luna turned to each other and looked like they were having a silence conversation between them. Eventually they both nodded once more and Celestia spoke up.

“While we both appreciate the warning you have given us we still find it in our best interest to experience the vision. After all you’ve told us, now more than ever, we need to verify who you say you are.” Celestia gave a weak smile. “Besides, Luna and I have lived for thousands of years. Surely our extensive experience will help us bear this vision better than most.”

I shook my head sadly at her words. It appears the princesses wouldn’t understand or trust me unless I gave them the vision they’d asked for.

“Very well. I want it to be known that I am still completely against this idea. However as you are the leaders of this land I will bend to your request.” I pulled Fluttershy off of my chest and looked into her eyes. “Again Fluttershy I’m so sorry that you had to be here for this. I wanted to protect your gentle soul from the harsh realities that exist.”

“I-it’s ok Cicero. If anything I’m really sorry you had to go through that.” She sadly said.

I smiled at her to show I was ok. “I appreciate your concern Fluttershy but I’ve already made my peace with the visions. I recognize them as a necessary evil in the training to become a protector. Now I need my arms to give Celestia and Luna the visions. Do you think you’ll be ok if I let you down?”

Fluttershy smiled back at me. “I’ll be ok Cicero. Thanks for being so kind to me all the time.”

I set Fluttershy down and said, “It’s no problem Fluttershy. I’m always here when a friend needs a hug. Now go on.” Fluttershy walked back to other girls and I saw them all surround and nuzzle her, so that she felt safe. These girls really are something else. I swear I’ll do everything in my power to keep them safe.” Looking away I let a grim expression take over my face. Looking back to Celestia and Luna I said, “Let’s get this over with then.”

Reaching out both my hands I asked, “Are you both ready for this?”

With determined looks on both princesses faces Celestia answered for the two by saying, “Ready when you are Cicero.”

I placed a hand on the side of each of their heads. “One last thing before we begin. Try and remember that no matter what, this is simply a vision. While you will still feel and experience what the protector did you must remember that it will end and you will arise from the nightmare.” I smiled at them both to try and keep them calm. “And remember last that I will be with you through this experience. Now let us begin.”

Unfocusing my eyes I looked inwards and recalled the vision of the protector who had been betrayed by her planet's leaders. Using my core I pulled forth a stream of energy. Shifting the flow of the stream I let it pass from my core into my brain and then towards both my hands. As soon as I felt the energy pass through my fingers into the princess's heads the vision began.
I walked through the rock halls of the Roakian empire. I shivered as I felt the cold bite into my exposed arms. The fact that the Roakian’s built their houses high above ground did not help the temperature problem. While the Roakian’s might have been made of rock my body was still shifting to match this planet's peoples biology. Even though I’d been on this planet for nearly 200 years the only changes I’d noticed in my body were that I now walked on two legs and I was able to harden my skin to a much firmer degree than other protectors could.
I figured it had something to do with my skin slowly shifting to become more rocklike in nature. Not that I was complaining. My tougher skin had saved my hide quite a few times already. As creatures made of rocks the Roakian’s could pack quite a bit of force into their punches and kicks. Thankfully even though they were extremely powerful fighters they lacked the speed of enemies I had seen in other protectors visions.
Pulling my meager clothing closer to myself I pushed onwards towards the Roakian throne room. I was quite excited to see king Clemath again. No matter what enemies I had been forced to face since coming to this planet I could always count on the king backing any of my endeavors. Over time our continued interaction had led to a steadfast friendship between us. As Roakian’s lived for quite a long time I hoped we would remain friends for a long time to come.
Clemath was almost always worried about me no matter what I was doing. Even if I was only going out to patrol a new location he would constantly fret over my wellbeing when I got back. It was nice to have such a caring friend on this unknown planet. Recently Clemath had requested that I let his royal physicians study my biological make up. He was absolutely fascinated by how quickly protectors bodies could adapt to new environments. Deep down I was pretty sure he only requested his physicians give me a check up so that he could make sure I was ok.
I smiled when I remembered how fussy he had been when I’d come back from my most recent mission. Celmath had circled around me and made sure I wasn’t injured for damn near an hour when I’d gotten back. He only stopped doing so and let me go when I’d agreed to go and see his physicians the next day. So here I was walking down the freezing Roakian halls trying to find the damn physicians wing. Roakian’s believed that the bigger the building was the more power it showed the family had. As this was the royal castle naturally it was the biggest of them all.
Luckily the next corner I turned around showed me exactly what I had been looking for. The royal physician's lab. Pleased that my search was now over I happily bounded over to the door. I knocked twice and waited. I didn’t have to wait long before the door opened and I saw a Roakian in a white coat standing before me. He was around 8 feet tall and his rock body was a dark brown color.
“Ahhhh miss Alexei, it is good to see you again in one piece. I had hoped our king would eventually convince you to come see us one day. As you are no doubt aware we are extremely interested to figure out how you body has managed to biologically shift so rapidly since you came here. Although his majesty made sure to strongly suggest that we give you regular health check while you are here.” I saw his rocky face attempt to shift into a cheeky grin as he said, “If I didn’t know better I’d say he sent you here more for a thorough physical rather than a biological fact finding session.”
I smiled back at the rock scientist and said, “Yep that king Clemath of yours is a big softy. Even if his skin is made of rocks I know that his heart is made of the softest mud.”
“Indeed.” He smiled back. “Now if you would be so kind, please follow me.” The rock man walked off and I quickly followed behind. We walked a few feet towards a lone table sitting in the middle of the room.
The next couple of hours were filled with a slew of very boring physical checkups. The scientist drew blood, took skin samples, tested my reflexes, and did all sorts of other tests. After the second hour I was beginning to remember why I had always told the scientists no when they asked to study my biological makeup. If their was one thing I hated it was sitting around and waiting. These tests were pushing my patience to the limit.
After the start of the third hour I’d decided I’d had enough. The scientist had a very strange multicolored rock balancing on my head while he requested that I take deep breathes. Right as I was about to tell him off I heard the door open and another rock figure walked into the room. The scientist looked over to the figure and I saw his eyes bug out.
‘Y-your majesty! I had not expected you to come down for these tests! I’m so sorry I wasn’t prepared to receive you!”
“Hahhahaha! Have no fear my good scientist! I simply came by to see how my favorite anomaly was doing.” He said winking at me.
I laughed as the scientist stuttered out, “O-O-Of course! I’m so sorry. You probably need some time alone to talk about important business with miss Alexei. As we’ve been going for quite some time now I’ll just take a break. Please let me know when I may continue my research.” The scientist scampered quickly towards the door and hastily bowed as it shut close with him on the other side.
“A bit of a jumpy fellow that one, isn’t he?” Said the king, oblivious as over to his status.
“*Snort* Clemath I don’t know how many times I have to tell you but in case you haven’t noticed, you’re king around these parts. Most people are slightly jumpy around royalty. They figure if they do the wrong thing then *eck*” I said making a cutting gesture across my neck with a finger.
Clemath looked shocked at this news. “What! I would never! My goodness too think that my subjects all fear I would do such a barbarous thing to them!” Clemath then put his hand to his face and rubbed his chin. “Then again…. I really don’t like that new cook down in the kitchens. Perhaps I should exercise a bit of my royal prerogative and take care of the problem hmm?”
“HAHAH! How the hell did some crazy rock like you become king!” I said. Chuckling for a little bit longer I finally managed to say, “I really missed you Clamath. With all that’s wrong on this planet it’s nice to know you always have my back.”
Clamath smiled at me. “I feel as though I should be saying that miss Alexei. I honestly don’t know if this world could have kept these crazy insurgents at bay without you.” Clamath looked down sadly. “Our planet has been united and peaceful under one rule for so long. I’m completely ashamed that such a band of troublemaking Roakians have emerged under my rule. *sigh* Perhaps I am truly not fit to rule. I have alway done what I believed was right for this world but maybe that’s just not enough.”
I hopped off the table and walked over to Clemath to give him a hug. Considering that the king stood at 10 feet tall and was the size of a large boulder I could barely fit my arms around his front.

“Don’t say that Clemath. You’re the nicest person I’ve met in my entire life. If anyone has a heart of gold and is fit to rule, it’s you. Sometimes the worst things happen to the best people.” He looked down at me as I smiled. “Just keep that big chin up, stay the same old you, and continue leading as you always have. We’ll win this fight eventually.”
The king let out a deep rumbling laugh. “I can always count on you to make me feel better Alexei.” He raised his head. “Yes I will keep leading. A king must always remain strong. My people must see my unbreakable spirit and the insurgents must feel my indomitable will! Eventually we will win!”
I let the king go and punched his leg. “That’s the spirit big guy!” Now let’s call that scientist back so I can finish these damn tests and be on my way.” I turned around to walk back to the table in the middle of the room. Something sharp quickly poked into my spine and I felt a cool liquid enter my body. My training took over as I rapidly spread energy throughout my body and hardened my skin to almost rocklike strength. Jumping away from whatever jabbed me I rolled and looked back to the see the king holding an empty syringe.
“C-Clamath? What was that? What did you just do?” I said confused and a little scared.
Clamath had an insane smile on his face as he said, “I just won.”

“W-What? I don’t understand.”
“No I wouldn’t expect you to Alexei. But please allow me to explain for the few moments you have left. I suppose you at least deserve that. You see I’m the one who created the insurgent band of Roakians you’ve been dealing with for the past century.” I felt terror grip the edges of my mind. “Yes I’ve been trying to dispose of you for a terribly long time. Unfortunately every single person I sent to kill or assassinate you was outmaneuvered by you.”
A felt myself beginning to sweat at his words. “Yes I’ve been trying to get rid of you for a long time. While my people may be strong we are not but children when it comes to facing your agility and combat abilities. I figured it I couldn’t take you out in a direct fight then subterfuge was my only other option.”
“AHHHHHH!” I cried out as I grabbed my burning stomach. Something was tearing at me from the inside.
“Ahhhhhhhh, victory has never sounded so sweet before. What you’re feeling right now is the feverous continual work of my top scientists. This is a serum of living acid that was developed just to take care of you.”
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” I screamed as I felt my organs beginning to melt. Seemingly ignoring my cries Clamath began to circle me as he continued talking.
“Yes we noticed that your bodies external hardiness was definitely a problem. No matter what plan I conceived and carried out you always seemed to pull through it.” I coughed up a load of blood and fell down onto the table. “I was extremely disappointed with my minions results as well. Eventually I decided that If I couldn’t break through your outer defenses I would skip them and take you down from the inside.” I tried to raise my fist but sadly felt it fall of the table as the pain of the living acid continued to eat my organs.
“After deciding to take a more scientific approach to this battle I consulted my top scientists and asked them if they develop a weapon that would take apart an enemy from the inside.” I violently threw up and felt some of my melted organs flow out of my mouth onto the floor. “I know right! I was so excited when my top scientists told me they had an idea that I could barely contain myself. Anyways you’re experiencing the first field test of the new weapon that they’ve been developing for me.”
“W-why?” I quietly croaked out.
“Why?” repeated Clamath. He kicked me off the table and I hit the ground with a wet thud. Weakly looking over I could see the acid had reached my arms as one of them was no longer attached to my body and was slowly dissolving in front of me. Using the last of my strength I looked up to see Clamath standing above me. “My dear Alexei the answer is so simple.” He leaned in close to whisper in my ear. “Simply because I can.” He raised his foot and the last thing I saw was it rapidly coming down towards my face.

Shaking my head I felt a shiver crawl over my body. I absolutely hated the death in that vision. There’s really no way to describe the feeling of having your organs melted by acid. Protector Alexei’s lesson was definitely one of the easier to recall after a vision like that. I shook my arms as if I was trying to thrown off any acid that might have remained on my body after the vision. Taking a deep breath I looked up and attuned my sense back to the present.

“Celestia? Celestia!” Called a panicked Twilight. “What’s wrong with her? Why won’t she answer?” I looked over to see a shaking Celestia with her eyes closed. To her left I saw Luna in the exact same state with Fluttershy gently calling her name from her side. The rest of the girls seemed to be panicking and running around as if it were the end of the world. I was surprised Celestia and Luna were taking the vision so well.

The first time I was given a vision I had awoken screaming and clawing at my body. Although that might had something to do with my flesh being torn from me in that vision. Shrugging my shoulders I rolled my head and prepared to deal with the after effects of the vision. Only one thing my mother had done had helped me deal with the pain after my first vision and I planned on doing the same for Celestia and Luna.

Drawing in a deep breath I bellowed, “SILENCE!” Everyone instantly stopped what they were doing and looked to me in surprise. “I’m sorry for yelling everyone but your panicking is not helping the situation. As I’m the only one who’s had experience with this please allow me to take control of the situation.” Turning towards Celestia and Luna I again yelled, “Celestia and Luna open your eyes!”

Still shaking I saw both of them obey my command. It was easy to identify the emotion I saw radiating from their eyes. It was the exact same emotion that had plagued my mind after my first vision. Fear.

“I see within you the exact fear that gripped me not but a few years ago when I received my first vision. Nothing, and I mean nothing, can prepare you for how it feels to die. It doesn’t matter how wise or old you are. I understand your pain right now. The feeling of being killed is naught but a trivial experience in comparison to this. Completely ceasing to exist and having all senses suddenly end is a horribly jarring feeling.” I finished sadly.

Looking back up I talked a little louder now. “But the vision is over. You have survived and are now wiser and stronger than you were before. You have faced down death and come out victorious. Do not dwell on the feelings of the vision but simply remember the lesson the protector died to teach you.” Lowering my voice I said, “And know that I am here for you. This is a burden we few must bear for the greater good.” Extending my arms I finished with, “Now embrace me. Let us endure and bear this pain together.”

Celestia and Luna slowly walked over to me as I curled my hands around their necks. We all sank to the floor and leaned into one another. What I had just finished saying were the same words my mother had told me after my first vision. While they didn’t perfectly apply to the situation at hand I felt they had been close enough to do their job. Through my arms I could Feel Luna and Celestia breathing deeply.

We were now the only three people on this planet that could say we had died and come back to life. This experience was why I was so sure that other protectors wouldn’t become desensitized to violence and start killing others. Once you’d experienced death it was something you would never wish on your greatest enemies. The complete crushing nothingness and lack of everything for the few second after you died in the vision were so completely wrong. In the very back of your mind you knew that you were still alive but your body was still experiencing the complete sensory depravation of the deceased protector.

Silence reigned as I continued to hold Celestia and Luna tightly against my side, as my mother had done for me. I would hold them all night if they needed it. The simple feeling of another against your skin was almost a sensory overload after experiencing the nothingness of death. A few minutes later I felt Celestia stir against me and begin to rise. Sensing her sister beginning to stand Luna did so as well. I released their necks and helped them up. Celestia was the first one to speak.

“I truly did not understand what I would experience when we went into that vision. Thank you for helping to guide us through the process Cicero. I think I speak for my sister and I when I say we now believe you are a protector as you have claimed.” She lowered her head. “I also believe I understand why you wish to hide the extend of your abilities from us now.” I saw a tear fall from her face. “The complete betrayal Alexei felt at the hands of Clamath is beyond words. I am deeply saddened to know beings of such evil exist in any universe.”

I sighed. “It’s unfortunate that you had to experience that vision but it’s the one you requested and the one that would prove my point the best.” I bowed. “Even so. I am deeply sorry that you now have to bear these experiences as I do.”

“Raise your head Cicero.” Said Luna. “My sister and I are adults. We made a completely informed decision and none of the after effects are your fault. No matter what we thank you for sharing this experience with us. If nothing else you have broadened our horizons to different species that exist.”

“So now that you believe me, is their a chance that I might be able to procure your help transferring objects between universes?” Celestia looked to Luna who smiled and nodded.

“Luna and I would be happy to help you in your endeavors. Any species who is willing to put themselves through those experiences to help another race they don’t even know has our support. Although we would like to discuss what threats to our little ponies you think exist in our lands.”

“A topic I myself am very much interested in discussing with you as well.” Looking over to their forms I could still see a very slight shake coursing through them. “But perhaps we should wait until tomorrow before we discuss such topics. Even as wise and powerful as you two are, I believe anyone would require some rest after that harrowing experience.”

“I do not want to admit it but I believe you are correct.” Celestia sighed. “Perhaps tomorrow we could reconvene in the castle to continue our discussion? Luna and I really can’t be away from the throne for much longer without causing our advisors to panic.”

“I’m alright with that. Though I don’t know the way to your castle.”

Celestia turned to Twilight. “Do you think you could lead Cicero to the castle tomorrow Twilight? Naturally I will pay for you and the elements of harmonies tickets.” she said smiling at the group.

“Of course princess Celestia!” Twilight trotted over and nuzzled Celestia’s face. “I’m so happy your ok. I was really worried for a moment there.” I saw a look of guilt pass over and leave Celestia’s face before anyone else could see it. Celestia returned Twilight's nuzzles before she spoke again.

“I’m sorry to have worried you Twilight. Cicero’s vision was…. much more vivid than I expected. I’m sorry we didn’t have time to talk today. Tomorrow I’ll be sure to clear some time for us to discuss your recent studies.” She said with a kind smile.

Twilight beamed at Celestia. “I can’t wait till tomorrow then.” Celestia chuckled at her enthusiasm.

“Before we go,” said Luna, “let me say sorry Cicero. I was very suspicious of you after the power you used against the manticores the other day. Any actions I take only spawn from-”

“Your desire to save and protect the ponies of Equestria.” I finished smiling. Luna looked shocked that I had finished her sentence. I let out a small chuckle. “Trust me princess if anyone understands, it’s me. While some of my visions, such as the one you’ve experienced, show horrible leaders, not all do. While I can’t say for sure I trust you and your sister, I can at least say that the love I have seen you show for your subjects is touching. If nothing else, you seem to love these ponies. I hope that over time this proves to be a true sentiment.”

Both Celestia and Luna gave me a nod at this. “I’m sure over time you’ll see that the love we have for our little ponies is true.” Said Celestia. Until tomorrow then.” At these last words both Celestia and Luna disappeared. I’m assuming beings with their level of power had the ability to teleport to wherever they wanted in Equestria. Any being that has the ability to move the Sun or the Moon probably has enough power to teleport anywhere on their planet.

“Alright then.” Said Applejack. “Am I the only one that was slightly lost during that conversation.”

I let out a loud belly laugh. “*heh* I’m sorry for laughing Applejack but your levity was exactly what I needed after a serious conversation like that.” I snicked a few more times before I turned to look at all the girls. “I’m sorry for mostly ignoring you girls during that conversation. Celestia and Luna were concerned that I was a threat to you girls.”

“After my fight with the manticores yesterday I can definitely say I understand their concerns. I wanted to ease those concerns before any of us did anything irrational. Now that it’s just us, you girls are welcome to ask me anything you want.” I finished with a smile.

“Tell us about the manticore fight!” Rainbow Dash yelled.

“*snort* Why am I not surprised that’s the first question out of you. *sigh* Well if you really want to know I suppose I can tell you about it another day. Considering present company,” I said surreptitiously nodding my head towards Fluttershy, “I’d rather wait until it’s just you and me.”

“Oh alright.” Rainbow Dash said a little grumpily.

“Why do you talk to and about princess Celestia and Luna without their title. It’s bad manners Cicero.” Said Rarity.

Had I been doing that? I thought back on my conversation with Celestia and Luna. After a few moments I realized that as soon as it was revealed I was now this planet's protector I had stopped using their title. I nodded my head once I realized this. I suppose I had taken in more of mothers training than I thought.

“I don’t do it out of disrespect Rarity, I do it out of protector training that my mother taught me. I actually hadn’t realized it until you pointed it out to me. Mother always told me to show respect to the authority figures on other planets but to not brainwash yourself into thinking you were anything but equals. While I do deeply respect the wisdom Celestia and Luna have shown, my training stops me from referring to them as anything but the two beings that they are.”

“Referring to leaders continually by their societally given status, such as princess, is a very easy way to brainwash myself into thinking I’m less than them. Perhaps in pony society I am less than them. But as a protector I must think of myself as nothing more or less than I am. My job is to protect and I cannot let anything such as societal norms sway or distract me from my job.”

I stopped for a moment. “Now that we’re talking about the princesses what exactly are they?” Turning to Twilight I said, “I know you mentioned they were called Alicorns and that they lived for a very long time but I thought only unicorns, pegasus, and earth ponies existed.”

Twilight smiled, apparently happy to fill me in. “Normally only the three types of ponies you mentioned exist. Each of the three types are imbued with their corresponding power of magic, flight, or strength. The one exception to this norm are alicorns. Alicorns are imbued with powers of all three races, very long lives, and massive amounts of magical power. The only three known alicorns in existence at this time are princess Celestia, Luna, and Cadence.”

“Cadence! There’s another one!?” I said surprised.

“Yes. Princess Cadence is the ruler of the crystal empire which is north of Canterlot.”

These alicorns seem like a rather large threat. Especially now that I know there are three of them. I need to make sure I stay on their good side. Three beings with that much power could seriously impair my abilities to protect this planet if they decided I was a threat and turned on me. Hopefully that would never happen but it’s better to be prepared rather than not.

“Well, ignoring the topic of alicorns for now, does anyone have any more questions that they wish to ask me?”

“Any more questions!?” Yelled an incredulous Twilight. “Now that I know you hail from two alien races I have an unending list of questions for you.”

I looked at Twilight and gave a shooing motion with my right hand. “Of course you have more questions Twilight. You always do. I meant does anyone else have any more pressing questions for me before we retire for the night?” Twilight put on a cute pouty face but stayed silent.

“Ooh ooh! I have a question! Pick me!” Said a very excited Pinkie Pie. She was flailing her hand in the air almost as if she expected me to call on her like we were in school.

Naturally I couldn’t help but smile at her perkiness as I called out, “Yes Pinkie Pie,” while pointing at her.

“Can I throw you another party!? Now I can throw you a welcome to Equestria Cicero the protector party!”

“HAHAHAHA! I’d love that Pinkie Pie! I’m always ok with any reason I can find to hang out with you wonderful girls.”

All the girls smiled as Pinkie Pie yelled, “Yipee! I can’t wait to get started planning it!”

“Hold on there Pinkie Pie. While I’m excited to get the party started I’m afraid it’ll at least have to wait until after tomorrow. We have to travel to Canterlot tomorrow after all.”

“Ahhhh…” I saw Pinkie Pie’s hair deflate slightly. Right before I could ask her if she was alright it reinflated to it’s original size as she said, “That just means I have even longer to plan an even more awesome party!” I shook my head. Nothing fazes this girl. Looking out one of the nearby windows I realized it was already approaching dusk based on the fading light. *GRUMBLE* Ahh yes, I’d forgotten about that.

“Alright then girls. If there are no more pressing questions before tomorrow i’d really like to get something to eat before I turn in tonight. I didn’t realize it until now but this conversation has lasted quite a few hours.” I could see the girls heads turn towards the window in shock. Apparently they had also lost track of the time during todays conversation.

“I’m going to have to agree with Cicero girls.” Twilight said. “It’s getting late and we’ll have to meet tomorrow morning to travel to Canterlot. I suggest we all go home and retire for the night.” Everyone agreed and said their individual goodbyes before heading out of Twilight’s front door. Right before Applejack left Twilight spoke out again. “Hold on Applejack.” Applejack turned around to face Twilight. “Since it’s so late I’m sure Spike is already asleep at your place. Do you think you could let him stay over tonight and tomorrow while we’re in Canterlot?”

“Ah course Twi! Big Mac may not show it but I know he likes watching Spike. Letting him stay tomorrow will be no problem.”

“Thank you Applejack. I’ll see you tomorrow morning then.” Applejack nodded and walked out the front door. Finally it was down to just me and Twilight in the library.

“Well I don’t know about you Twilight but I’m absolutely starving. Since I’m staying with you I’ll let you in on a little secret.” Twilight raised her eyebrows and scooted closer to me. “Whenever protectors use their powers, like I did earlier while racing Rainbow Dash, we have a very strong drive to replace our energy supplies soon as possible.”

“How do you replenish your energy?” Twilight said intrigued.

*GRUMBLE* my stomach called. “By eating food just like you silly!” I said laughing. “Although I’ll admit I usually become absolutely insatiable after heavily using my powers. That’s another reason I gave you so much money the other day. I wanted to cover my stay here as well as the costs of the food I would consume. Now if you’re not opposed I think I’ll cook an easy meal my mother taught me back on Earth. It’s tasty and loaded with calories.”

Twilight smiled. “I’d be happy to try any food you make Cicero.”

“Excellent! Then follow me into the kitchen please.”

Walking to the kitchen Twilight sat down at the table while I began gathering ingredients for dinner. I didn’t know the exact locations of ingredients so I ended up having to search pretty much every nook and cranny of the kitchen for the ingredients I wanted. I was going to make a vegetable potato bake with cheese. Nothing fancy but full of enough calories and nutrients to replenish my energy. I started preparing the recipe by washing off the potatoes and cutting them into small cubes.

After i’d cut up my third potatoe I heard Twilight hesitantly say, “Cicero?”

Continuing to cut potatoes I answered with, “Yes Twilight?”

“Does…. Does it bother you that you’re stuck here protecting this planet? You don’t really know much about Equis or it’s inhabitants but from what I understand about protectors you’re expected to dedicate your life to protecting it. E-even *gulp* die if you need to. Why are you so calm about all of this?”

“Hmmmm. Well I won’t lie to you Twilight, when I was a child I was absolutely furious that fate had given such a destiny to me. I was only a child when my mother told me that my life was only to be used for the greater good of others. As I grew older I resented and hated the ancient ones for bestowing such a burden upon my people. How dare they decide the path of every single one of my people. How dare they act like all powerful benevolent gods for every other species when they send my people off to die!”

*SLAM* My fist hit the cutting board and I saw that I’d squished a potato in anger. Sighing I cut up the mush and dumped it into the bowl with the rest of the potatoes. Reigning in my anger I continued my work. “My apologies for that Twilight. As you can see, even now I have trouble accepting this idea sometimes.” Twilight said nothing as I began slicing vegetables in silence. After a minute of work I started talking again.

“I don’t I could have ever accepted such an unfair fate if it hadn’t been for the visions. Once you’ve lived that many lives. Once you’ve died that many times. Once you’ve seen all the horrible things the universe has to offer…. I don’t any of my people could see that and chose not to help in any way possible.” I stopped chopping vegetables and turned back towards Twilight.

“Honestly even after I’d had the visions I still had a hard time forcing myself to train. I just didn’t see the point. My fate was already decided and I assumed that I would just perform my basic duties and nothing else. I was completely disillusioned with the idea of being a protector.” I hesitated for a moment. “But then…. Then I met you and your friends. Since I’ve been here I realize that you girls live up to every virtue that I cherish and had hoped to keep safe as a protector.”

“Kindness, generosity, loyalty, honesty, laughter,” looking Twilight right in the eyes I finished with, “and the magic friendships that they help create.” Thinking about what I had just said I couldn’t help but laugh. “I guess you were right all along Twilight. When you said you were studying the magic of friendship I laughed it off as madness. Perhaps there truly is something magical created by friendships. If that’s what I’ve been sent here to protect, then I think I could live with that.”

Smiling I turned back to my previous work and continued to chop vegetables. I heard the quiet clopping of hooves followed by the soft feeling of Twilight hugging me from behind. I could tell she was standing on her back hooves so that should could reach around my waist.

“I can’t say that I understand your people or the burden you bear. I’m not sure what it is that you’ve seen in your people's visions. I don’t know what it is you’ll have to do to complete your task in the future. All I know is that you said you would protect my friends. As long as that stays true I promise that I’ll always stand by your side and help. You may not have been here long Cicero but you have friends. As an Equestrian of Equis and your friend I will help you bear your burdens.”

I felt a solitary tear slide down my cheek. Nothing need be said as I turned around and returned the hug. I lost track of time as I let the safe feeling of Twilight’s hug envelop my senses. After what seemed to be 5 minutes I finally let go of Twilight. “Thank you.” I said quietly. Smiling and giving me a quick nuzzle she walked back to her seat at the table. Levitating a book from the library into the kitchen she laid down and began to read.

Feeling rather content I turned back towards the vegetables and continued to prepare tonight's dinner. With the silence between us I finishing preparing the ingredients and quickly baked dinner in the oven. Twilight and I ate our meals without speaking, minus the one time she opened her mouth to declare that the food was delicious. After dinner was finished Twilight and I both gave each other another quick hug and retreated to our individual rooms.

Entering my room I gently laid myself down on my bed and stared out the ceiling’s skylight at the night sky. I felt so weightless and relaxed. I hadn’t felt this wonderful in such a long time. The last time had been after my mother had told me that I was a protector. She told me about my new duties and our people's fates. I had felt so terrified and alone. Thankfully mother knew just what to say to calm me.

Have no fear Cicero. We fight as one. No matter what happens you will always find allies in those who fight for good like we do.
I had always assumed she meant the other protectors. No matter what happened I knew my people would keep fighting to protect all that is good. But now I truly understood. While the protectors would always fight with me I now knew that I had others that would stand by my side. I would never be alone if I fought with my allies.” I smiled. “I would never be alone if I had my friends.”