Chapters Lance of Love
A Winningverse Story
By Admiral Q
I woke with a groaned and felt very tired. I tried to remember. Ah yes, I am a pegasus of the Charger Clan....Lance Charger. Yes. I was the first born of the mafamilia Bright Charger who also had the honor of being part of the Ephorate, the ruling body of the Pegaspolis. Yes it was all starting to come back to me. Pegasoplis was part of Equestria, signed by Commander in Chief Hurricane after Hearth's Warming. Me and my fellow pegasi were to be the military arm of Equestria. They would protect their cousins as well as provide weather for them. I opened my eyes and looked around. The grassy plain around me was familiar yet different at the same time. I looked around and saw a city on a mountain. That...that was Canterlot. That city...it was my enemy and it looked wrong. Like there should be other things near it. Cloudsdale..yes Cloudsdale my home. It was supposed to be part of the siege. I lowered my head as I tried to remember and saw a lock of mane fall in front of me. My mane was not that long, nor was this the right color. I needed to look at myself. Remembering a river nearby. I flew over to it and looked at my reflection.
My fur was again pink instead of the gold it should be, my mane was cream, pink, and lavender then the just plain white...and I had a horn...............................I HAVE A HORN! The fact I flew here says I still have wings....I'm an alicorn!? How!? WHY!? I distinctly remember being a pegasus. I looked at my bodies reflection and even my cutie mark was not mine anymore. Instead of the lance with a banner it was a crystal cyan heart with gold leaflets surrounding it. What in Equestria happened to me. I was so busy trying to figure this out when she heard the flaps of wings. 'STUPID LANCE, you let your guard down.' I chastise myself and I took a defensive stance. I may not have a weapon or can use magic but I was not helpless. They were pegasi but they wore no clan colors on their armor. It was similar to Royal Guard Armor She had seen before but more simplified like clan armor. They looked at me in shock. Then one guard addressed one of the others. “Notify Princess Celestia that we have discovered an alicorn.” That was I needed to hear.
“So Celestia is behind this. Well she will find this mare not so easily beaten. Tis sorcery will not stop me.” They looked at me confused but that was all I needed. With a quick Flap of her wings I was in the air and decked one guard. With him out of the way I flew away but they caught up quickly and one body checked me. I twirled back to the ground. I had trouble getting back up. Couldn't worry about that now. I had to escape some how. Four Guards surrounded me and I was ready when they attacked. I ducked one lunge and uppercut him Then a twirled to dodge a kick by another only to be hit In the back and her head hit the ground hard and I was dazed till darkness claimed me.
* * * * *
When I started coming to again I did not feel grass beneath me, nor did it feel like a cot in a dungeon. I opened my eyes and saw.....A fancy room? I looked around and it looked like some of the rooms I saw in Manehatten but those still had some simplicity. This did not. I then spotted a tray with a bunch of apples and a pitcher of water with an empty glass. My stomach growled and decided to eat. If they wanted to kill her they had multiple opportunities before now. I ate it all in quick time and even after eating all the apples and half the pitcher I felt not hungry but far from full. I heard the door open and looked that way with a defensive stance.
It was Celestia.
She smiled at me. “Oh good, you are awake.” She then noticed my stance and frowned. “Please be at ease. You are safe here among new friends.” I snorted at that.
“Please, I am your prisoner despite this room. So what have you done to me?” She looked at me in confusion.
“Prisoner? You are not a prisoner but a guest and I have done nothing to you my little pony.”
“I'm not your pony. I am of Pegasoplis and we freed ourselves from you.” Celestia looked at her confused.
“Pegasoplis? That nation cease to exist centuries ago.”
“WHAT!?”
“Yes it cease to exist after the Lunar Rebellion. That's common knowledge. Please tell me your name.”
“I am Lance Charger, Daughter of Ephor Bright Charger, Captain of the Hetairoi as you well know now how and why did you do this to me!?” The large alicorn in front of me blinked twice.
“Lance Charger? Impossible, you died. I sensed it during the war. From what we heard from Dawn Charger and what Shadow reported the Tanglehoof covered your nose and mouth and she cut it off to prevent your death.” Celestia ears drooped. “Sadly she failed. The tanglehoof you accidentally swallowed killed you and peace was destroyed. Things went downhill for both sides that point on.” That got my interest.
“How? I admit things are a bit confusing right now. I know we are enemies but so much is clouded.” I stated and she looked at me before responding.
“We were at war. One I never wanted. I thought I was doing my best to rule all three tribes. Balancing all their needs and wants. I took the loyalty of Pegasi for granted and I paid for it. My mishandling of the Clipping case and even how I disapproved of their actions with the griffons. In hindsight they were more right then I was. How many more would have been lost before I acted. My grief affected my judgment. I respected their decision and asked Shadow Kicker to relay my desire to work with my successor. From what Shadow wrote after the war that a major rift happened between her and the Ephorate. Starting with the fact they excluded her from an earlier meeting to discuss the possibility of removing me from office. Then started making moves to support my opponent Apple Tree.”
I looked down as memories again filled my mind. “Yeah I remember mother being displeased with thee. Never heard about Ephor Kicker being excluded. That's disturbing. We liberated Manehattan And backed the Apple Tree supporters.”
“Well liberated could be debated. Half the Earth ponies still supported me. That could have still ended peacefully if given time. It be like if Unicornia decided to interfere with the selection of a new Ephor.”
“You have a point." I said to her and frown. “We were fighting for the right for mortal ponies to decide their fate.”
“Yet but moving in you forced your view on the Earth ponies rather then let them decide.” Celestia pointed out. I frowned at that. Then remembered.
“Yes a point that's why I offered the idea of new elections during the prisoner exchange to get Acting Commander Rightly back.”
“Yes you could have made peace soon afterwards. At least the best chance. Though I question if it would have succeeded in light of what happened afterwards. But maybe. Then that unicorn tried to kill you. Sunbeam swore up and down she didn't send anypony to do it. Say what you will about her, she was efficient at her job and wouldn't use anything but the best if she wanted you dead. My guess is a warlock.” I started to remember that part. “Yes. Ephor Swift Blade interacted with Warlocks to put an end to Polaris' army. The Commander wasn't too happy with that and assigned him to liaison with our Earth Pony allies in Manehattan.”
“That turned out to be a mistake. After Commander Rightly was captured and your siege engines and supplies were destroyed. He started on working to take out the allied Earth Pony Government for their management of the Earth pony side. Especially when they were thinking of peace with me for me recognizing their government.”
“Yes, without the supplies from the earth ponies our rebellion would collapse.” Celestia nodded.
“Yes you needed Earth Pony support to continue the fight So he got desperate. He even further got involved with the Warlocks and had them assist in his take over. They got Fair Deal and his top supports in a building and set fire to it killing all inside. They blamed Sunbeam off course for it.” I shook my head slowly. Swift wasn't a strong fighter but to go to these lengths, to further use the Warlocks against her uncle's wishes. He could be removed form the Ephorate with that kind of move. Surely her mother would have done so.
“My mother would have stopped that involvement and removed him form his position.”
“She very really got the chance. Your mother took your death hard. She met with Shadow Kicker under a white flag and after only a few words she impaled Shadow on her lance saying it was for daughter. She was also wounded, fatally and Swift used her to be an avatar for my corrupted sister. If you are truly Lance Charger then you have been graced with a second chance...” What ever she would have said beyond that was never known. All I felt was rage.
“LIAR!, MY MOTHER WOULD NEVER USE SUCH DISHONORABLE TACTICS!” I glared at her.
“Sad to say she did. And captured Shadow's daughter during it.”
“Get out.” I said to her coldly.
“Please just hear me out.” Celestia pleaded.
“GET OUT!” I screamed at her and she quickly left. I was so mad. And destroyed some of the items in my room. To claim that my mother would abandon honor so easily. The very sense of Honor she taught ME!
It took me an hour to calm down and to think. I needed more information on what happened. There is enough to believe that somehow I have traveled through time but how much? I needed to find Cloudsdale, find my clan and get their side of the story Celestia gave me. I can not trust her words after everything that has happened.
So I waited till night to come but as the sun began to set I heard a knock on the door.
“Come in.” I said curious who would come. The door open to reveal a unicorn pushing in a tray.
“Your dinner Princess.” The mare said. I frowned at her.
“I'm no royalty, just a pony.” I replied.
“Forgive me princess but being an alicorn makes you one.” The mare replied with fear in her eyes. I sighed.
“I'm not going to hurt thee but how does having this,” I point to the horn. “Make me royalty? I know Celestia was Queen of Unicornia but I hold no title or allegiance to it.” She looked at me confused.
“Princess, Unicornia ceased to exist at the end of the Lunar Rebellion. Princess Celestia went with the title of Princess by terms of the peace treaty signed by all remaining leaders of the various factions. That's a common thing taught to every foal.” I looked at her.
“Till recently I was a pegasus and this whole transformation thing has got me all confused to what's going on.” The mare came up and ...hugged me.
“You poor dear, I had no idea becoming an alicorn would that way. I thought it be a joyous thing.”
“Well when this hits you out of the blue it can be quite surprising. And I have been out of touch for awhile so all of this is new to me.”
“Well I know the Princess is eager to teach you. She has been quite giddy since she heard of an alicorn appearing.” That confused me but I didn't say anything. Instead I lifted the cover on the meal and stared at it. This wasn't dinner this was a display. I couldn't even recognize most of the food before her.
“Is something wrong princess?” The mare asked.
“I don't recognize any of this food. I'm use to simple food, sort of like what you see in Cloudsdale.” I replied.
“Ah, well I'll take this and will be back then your highness.” She left and that title was really getting on my nerves. But I calmed myself by taking a breathe, holding it and letting it out while extending a forehoof. Having five younger siblings tests your patience at times so I made this technique to calm myself and it works pretty well. Minutes later the mare returned with a more recognizable meal.
“Thank you, tis a great meal.” I said and I began eating.
“You are welcome princess. Leave the cart outside your room when done.” She bowed and left. I hated that bowing. I am not her better, I am a pony just like her, just from a different tribe. I ate my meal in silence and pushed the cart out when done. Then she made a move to look like she was retiring for the night and she actually dozed a bit.
When I woke it was due to needing to get rid of waste. She found the latrine room and went. It was a different kind of relief that this was still a necessary function. I had heard rumors of what alicorns could do and of course stories of Commander Luna before her madness. Some saying they are goddesses, others the actual sun or moon in physical form with no need to eat, drink, breathe, or relieve themselves. I was so glad some of those are now not true. When done she checked the moon and it was well into the night. Perfect, I went to the window and opened it but saw a pair of guards across the way. “They would try to stop me. I need a distraction but what?” I tapped her head. “Wait the horn." I looked up at it. “Okay time to earn your keep.” She focused like her kind did to when controlling storm clouds. She heard a hum that she knew was unicorn style magic then she opened her eyes and focused on the guards. To my surprise I saw a ...pink heart floated over to them and hit them both. They looked at each other. Then started to make out. I looked in shock as the two hugged and disappeared as they fell onto the catwalk they were guarding. “Huh, wasn't expecting that but it works. Though surprise that guards are that easy. I thought unicorns were at least compentant.” She took to the air and went strait up into the cloud cover. “Now to find Cloudsdale and my clan to get some answers.” I said to my self as a flew on into the night.
Author's Note
Still dealing with issues but this was nearly done so here you go.
Truth and Confrontation
I flew till dawn with only bathroom breaks along the way. I landed by some woods and took a drink of water. My wings were tired and in need of rest. This body maybe an alicorn body but it wasn’t up to my standards of fitness. Something to work on. With flying out for now might as well forage for food. Sadly she had no sack so I couldn’t carry extra. A mistake in hindsight but in my defense I have turned into an alicorn with completely different looks then from my own. Told that my clan and country no longer exist and that my own mother acted disgracefully. I challenge any mare to keep things straight with that kind of news. I found some berries but had to eat grass just to fill my stomach. I considered my options. I had to get in contact with my clan. It maybe centuries later but they were still my clan. I observed my surroundings. It was either spring or summer and if Cloudsdale path has remained unchanged then I have a rough idea where it was. I swung my head and the new appendage remind me of its existence as I hit a tree branch with it. I yelped and rubbed it. “Thou will be a pain I know it.” That brought another problem. There is only one other alicorn in Equestria so if ponies see her horn Celestia will know where I was. It would be easier to hide my wings but I was heading for Cloudsdale so it was the horn I had to hide. I was going to have find something. Until then no pony could see me. Keeping my eyes pealed I took to the air.
Two hours later I saw Cloudsdale on the horizon. Looking around she spotted a small town and headed for it’s outskirts. Using her training she darts around town looking for something to hide her horn. I hated to resort to theft but I have no choice. Looking around she searched for anything that could hide her horn. After minutes of searching I found something. It was a pink colored cloth that formed a half cone. I remember seeing some earth pony mares wear it. And it was large enough to hide the horn. I looked to see if anypony was around. Seeing no pony she raced out and snatched it and raced to the forest. Once there a found a stream and used it as an impromptu mirror as I got the hat on. After a few minutes of working with the unfamiliar hat I looked at my reflection. Most angles the horn was hidden. Unless the looked straight up from under me nopony would see it. That done I took to the air for Cloudsdale.
When I got to the city of my birth I recognized a couple landmarks. The weather factory and the Cloudsseum. But none of the clan homes or even the Commander’s Residence were seen. This was very vexing. Even defeated there should have been clans left over. I flew over to where my clan home should be. There were several small buildings akin to what she saw in earth pony towns. Normally they were used by pegasi without a clan. To see so many and no clan homes anywhere was very concerning. She spotted an elderly mare from one of the houses that sat where her home stood. She glided down and landed in front of the mare who was a bit startled. “Apologies mare, I come seeking answers.” The mare looked at me confused but asked.
“What could I answer? I’m just a simple mare living her final days in peace.”
“If you can’t answer my questions I will leave you in peace. I just want to know what happened to the. Clan that lived here.” The mare stared at her for a bit.
“Well if you don’t mind listening to an old mare ramble. Then I can tell you what I know.” The mare waved me into her home. It was a spartan home. Filled with basic furniture you should in an earth pony house or a clanless pegasus. It was also filled with little nitnacks and a painting or two. All signs of a happy and well lived life. “Do you mind if I make some tea while we talk dear?”
“Not at all.” I reply taking the chair by the couch. She went to the kitchen area and began making the tea.
“What do you know about clan Charger?” she asked me.
“They are one of the oldest clans out there. Have a preference for lances as weapons. Their motto is ‘We lead the charge’ and is a long honorable clan. I know everything till the death of Lance Charger.” I answered her. The mare was silent for a bit making the tea before she replied.
“Sadly they are no longer known for that. Bright’s actions after Lance’s death destroyed it.” The mare returned to the living room. “After Lance died there was a duel between Crossguard, the general of the Princess’ army and Ephor Steel Striker. The two stallions fought hard and her badly wounded and the duel considered a draw. Crossguard died from his wounds leaving Ephor Shadow Kicker in charge of the army. Later that day Ephor Charger approached the fortifications under a white flag with her son Dusk at her side. Ephor Kicker with her daughter went to meet them. Words were spoken but there in clear view of both sides Bright took her lance and stabbed Ephor Kicker in the chest. Ephor Kicker manage a swipe before going down. And Dusk knocked out Gale and took her as the Chargers fled the scene. Sunbeam Sparkle went on a rampage. And one of Bright’s sons perish to her flames. Back at camp words were exchange between Dusk and Bright. From was has been remembered, he was not happy with his mother’s actions. Then Thunder showed up to report that his twin was dead. Bright struck him in her anger. Soon she collapsed and it seem Shadow got a lucky hit in. One that was very fatal as well. Before the medics could even try to save her Swift and his warlock allies took her for a ritual. Dusk rallied a couple minor clans to remove Swift Blade from power. With Rightly captured and both Steel and Bright badly injured left Swift in charge. Sadly they were too late. The warlocks used the captured mages and killed them to turn Bright into the Avatar of Nightmare Moon. From there things went downhill for the rebellion. Bright was not same mare, calling the Princess her sister while still acknowledging her children. She let Swift use the earth ponies as fodder for failed assault after failed assault. The one time they could have a break through the gave it up to challenge the leaders of the Princesses army, among them a still living Shadow Kicker.” The mare brought out the tea and served a cup to me and poured one for herself. I took a sip and it was nice. She resumed her tale after a sip herself.
“They dueled. Avatar versus Shadow, Sunbeam Shimmer versus the Warlock Hidden Facts, and Swift versus Greenhorn an earth pony captain. The Avatar fled a duel after Shadow got in some good hits. This forced Hidden Facts to withdraw from their duel and Swift soon followed . Though he suffered the most from the duel since after one hit he spent his duel hiding from his opponent. Dusk and his sister Dawn were part of an attack that took place the same time as the duel and managed to break through but at high cost. So high that with the duel lost they couldn’t hold. Dusk and Dawn were captured. Dusk and Rightly were released for Shadow’s daughter and for an attempt at peace. Rightly removed Swift from power and it was believed Hidden Facts was killed. They gave peace terms but they were completely unreasonable and Dusk defected. Sadly that was a ruse. He worked with the avatar and some traitorous nobles to foalnap Sunbeam’s foal for some ritual and showed that Hidden Facts was still alive. In the end the Avatar was dead ending the seige of Canterlot. Celestia then took the field and engaged an army under Steel Striker’s command and asked for their surrender. Steel refused and Celestia burned the entire army to a crisp. After that they march on Cloudsdale and again asked for a surrender. Rightly did meet with Shadow but any attempt at peace was destroyed by Celestia herself this time. After Dusk’s betrayal she declared to dissolve all clans with only two spared. The Kickers being one of them. Rightly could not accept those terms and tried a desperate night attack. It was canceled out by Celestia raising the sun. What happen next was not a battle but a slaughter. Rightly fell in the battle and Cloudsdale surrendered. Soon after both Pegasapolis and the Earth pony government ceased to be. Elements of the Doos and the Strikers fled Equestria for the city state of Freeport. And that is the end of the Lunar Rebellion.”
“Why did Dusk defect and then betray Celestia?”
“From what was gleamed, the process to turn Bright into the avatar didn’t fully work and the ritual was to fix it. How I don’t know.” My heart was broken, honor so easily discarded. My clan, my country destroyed. I looked at the mare. And with a nod I said.
“I thank thee. For the tea and the answers.”
“My pleasure miss.” I put the tea cup down and headed to the door I came in and out to her backyard I cried and mourn. “You fools, you darn fools. You lost everything. We should have been content with removing Celestia from power. But no, we pushed and we lost everything. Oh Dusk, Dawn, Flash, Thunder, mother, uncle. What have you done? You all destroyed everything we fought for. And Swift Blade.” My voice went from mournful to angry. “May you rot in Tartarus for what you did. Tainting our cause with warlocks and mother, you forgot everything you taught me to avenge my death. It was war, I could easily die in any battle on the Rebellion. That duel with Copper Spark, or in the duel with Shadow Kicker, or at any battle. That is the risk of war. Instead of losing just me you lost everything.” I cried over the loss.
When I finally finished my mourning and wiped my eyes of tears and sense somepony nearby and looked to see the mare standing there with a sad smile. “Hearing that was hard wasn’t miss?” She asked me. I nodded. “ Well I got you a cloak and some saddle bags with some bits for you.” I was confused.
“Why are you giving me these?”
“Well the cloak and bags were my late wife’s. I don’t need them but you do and I’m in the twilight years of my life and have plenty of bits. You however need them and I can’t let a fellow Charger go empty hooved.” I blinked at her and she smiled.
“Dear, I may be old but my mind is sound. You’re a Charger and some how you didn’t know these things but you need some help and this is what I can provide.” I was left speechless. This mare, just met me and is giving me these items. I bowed to her.
“I thank thee for your aid.” She nodded to me.
“You’re welcome dear. May your flight be pleasant.” I wave her goodbye as I took to the air. In the air I overlooked Cloudsdale. So different then what I remember. Finding a spot similar to a market place I saw in Manehattan. I headed for it to get supplies. I got some food, water, and a map of the world. Sadly the weapons were too much for the bits I had. I walked studying the map. A lot was unchanged from her time but for the city state called Freeport. It was a series of islands in a key trade location. That mare said that the Doo’s fled there. I thought on it when a heard a mare’s voice call out my name. I quickly moved to face the source and found a pegasus mare in red armor. The colors of the Kicker clan. I narrowed my eyes. “What do you want Kicker.” I sneered at her. She was a bit shocked at my response. She steadied herself.
“The princess wishes to talk to you.”
“And what if I don’t want to talk to her?” I replied back.
“I rather not bodily carry you to her but I will if I have to.” I raised my eyebrow and then replied.
“If you know my name then you know my past and what I am now.”
“Not going to stop me, plus I came prepared.” Several pegasi appeared all bearing red armor. “Please, the Princess just wants to talk to you. No arrests just a talk.” I eyed around me. They were well equipped in true clan style. If I had my armor and lanced I try to take them but as unarmed as was it wasn’t worth it. With a sigh I replied.
“Very well, lead me to her.” The mare nodded and took to the air and I followed.
“But your highness?” Gale started with clear confusion in her face.
“No buts Gale. This is a private conversation. I trust Lance won’t attack me.”
“As much pleasure it would do me to see you at my hooves bloodied it would do me no good so she is safe from harm.” Celestia frowned at my replied while Gale was clearly displeased but replied.
“Very well princess.” She took to the air and left though still likely close enough to keep an eye on me.
“Well you wanted to see me, here I am.”
“Indeed, I am so glad you are alright. I trust you found the answers you were seeking?” she took a sip of a drink.
“Oh yes I did. And what I found made me hate you.” Celestia spat out her drink.
“W-what!?” She asked.
“Oh yes,” I said smuggly. “I learned fully what happened after my death. And while my uncle made errors and my mother shames me with her actions. But you, you took the cake. As came to accept I was far in the future. That everypony I knew and loved has been dead for a long time but at least still have my clan. But it turns out I don’t. The only potential family I have was destroyed just years after my death by YOU!”
“Lance they left me no choice. I couldn’t trust the clans after Midnight was foalnapped.” I rolled my eyes.
“Oh please, that’s an excuse and you know it. You were angry at my mother for what she did so you took it out on the clans and followed unicornian dream of removing the culture of the other tribes. You destroyed the clans, and you destroyed the earth pony government even though half supported you. Great way to thank them for their sacrifice. Yet who is untouched. The unicornian government and the Kicker clan. Funny that.”
“The Kickers were loyal and were allowed to exist. Shadow agreed with my choice.” Celestia replied.
“In other words she kissed your plot thus were spared your purge. And what of the earth ponies? I know many didn’t side with the clans and our cause yet there government is also gone.”
“Thanks to the rebellion and Swift’s actions a lot of the government was gone.” Celestia stated.
“The ponies sure, but the system still worked. They could vote in replacements. But you didn’t let them. You decided for them. You have just shown that Swift’s claims about you were true. You are a tyrant. You have no equal, no check, what you say is law.” I smirked before continuing. “l find it amusing ironic. Why call yourself princess when queen, or empress more are far more appropriate. I might have given you the benefit of the doubt those centuries ago but because of what Iearned today I can no longer give you that, TYRANT .” Celestia winced at that, it seems I landed a blow. After a minute Celestia sighed and asked subdued.
“What will you do Lance Charger, raise an army against me?”
“As much as I desire to I am also a smart mare. I have no power base to challenge you. You won. Equestria is your little plaything now.” Celestia winced at that. “No I plan to go to the remnants of my uncle's clan. The closest thing I have a family I have left.” Celestia looked pained before responding.
“Very well, I will not stop you Lance. I hope you succeed.” Her response confused me. She seemed sadden not angry or dismissive I expected. I started to position for a take off but a question nagged me. I looked back at her, she looked so sad. I asked my question.
“Why did want this meeting? Clearly not to imprison me so why?” She looked at me.
“Because you and I are the only alicorns on the planet. With my sister gone it has been hard. I failed her and lost her and by losing her I lost the best chance of avoiding the war. When I heard of another alicorn appearing I was so happy. Even when you told me your name I still had hope. I know there is bad blood between us but I hope we could overcome that.”
“And do what exactly Celestia? What did you expect me to do, go through a ridiculous coronation and then spend eternity smiling and waving?” I did just that to make my point. “Also add in marrying me to some noble house and bear several foals till they die off just to eventually be married to another. You think I would like that kind of life. Despite my physical changes I am still a warrior of pegaspolis so how would that whole scenario play out?” I turned away from her again. “We do have something in common, we both miss our families.” I turned my head to her and glared. “However unlike you I am not responsible for the lost if yours. I pray Equestria doesn’t suffer more under your rule.” With that I took to the air leaving the tyrant and the place that was once my home.
I found myself in an Equestrian port city. The earth pony cities had changed a small bit since my time. The buildings were taller then those she saw in Manahatten during the war. The big change she saw pegasi and unicorns in the city. I still saw a majority of earth ponies but the numbers of the other tribes were sizable. I frowned. No doubt a result of Celestia destroying the clans, leaving her brother and sister pegasi directionless and the unicorn another sign of the unicorn supremacy Celestia allowed. What's worse these ponies had no clue of it. They think they live in perfect harmony. They don't understand the tyranny they are under. I had no future here.
I arrived at the docks and marveled at the ships I saw. I remember ships being long and short with a sail and oars. Now they were not as long and wider. In the front and back of the ship had raised platform looking like wooden versions of those towers on those castles the unicorns were fond of. Looking at the ships, most had the Equestrian flag. It had not change even from her time. It was a bit of a mockery. It had the images of Celestia and Luna looking like equals yet they clearly weren't. If they were than Commander Luna would not have gone insane and my mother wouldn't have then end up as she did. Pushing that from my mind and found a ship with an unfamiliar flag. It had the image of a sword cutting through chains in black with a red background. I saw a pegasus sitting at a desk on the docks. I walked up to him.
“Excuse me sir but is this ship heading for Freeport?” He looked at me somewhat confused.
“Of course, it's our home port. Our flag should give it away.” He then frown. “Are you from the Equestrian government because we have followed all your laws and regulations.” I lifted my hoof up.
“Peace sailor. I am not part of the Equestrian government. I ask because I am seeking passage to Freeport.”
“We have room. One hundred bits.” I looked in my bag and counted out the bits. This would take most of the bits I was given. Uugghh! The need for them in this era. I hoofed over the bits. “Thank ye ma'am. We sail in two hours.”
“I have no where to go and this is all I got. So can I board now?”
“Aye, ye can. Windblast!” A filly popped out of the bunch of crates.
“Yes Mr. Seawind?”
“Show the lady to one of our passenger berths.”
“Aye, aye sir.” The filly saluted then faced me. “This way ma'am.” I followed the filly and saw she was a pegasus. And going up the gangplank and soon I was onboard. I glanced around and saw ponies, mainly pegasi but a few earth ponies as well. Either hauling cargo to a hole in the floor or readying the ship for departure. Windblast went down some stairs and I followed. The deck was dimly lit but Windblast knew the way. We got to a hallway with four doors. Wingblast entered one and lit a match and lit a lantern. I walked in and it was a small room with a bed, a chest and a small desk built into the wall. “Well hear you go ma'am. All our guest rooms are the same so don't expect better.”
“I didn't young one. Why would you think I would?” I asked annoyed.
“You have the look of an Equestrian noble looking down on us Freeporters and especially us Doos because we don't kiss the flanks of the sun tyrant.”
“Well I am not one of those. I hate Celestia, likely more then you. You said you were a Doo?”
“Yeah, Windblast Doo at your service. My apologies if I insulted you.” She said with a small nod.
“You are forgiven and I am seeking the Doos out.”
“Why?”
“Because, thanks to Celestia the Doo clan is the closest thing I have to family now.”
“How are you connected to us?”
“My uncle was a Doo. He's been long dead but with the rest of my family gone you Doos are all I have left. Are all Doos sailors?”
“No, we are a small faction in the clan. The bulk are mercs.”
“Well I should let you get back to your duties and thank you for the information. It was very useful.”
“You're welcome ma'am.” She started to leave.
“Windblast, call me Lance.”
“Very well, Lance.” She left and shut the door. I put my bags in the chest and beat to do some wing ups. Got to get this body in shape for hopefully for my new career as a mercenary. I laid down on the floor and with my wings lifted my body. I kept a good pace, the same pace I had with my old body. I managed to keep at it for a half an hour. I was panting, by Pegasopolis this body was something. No wonder Luna was a good commander with this kind of stamina. It also showed how wasteful Celestia was with her gifts. I waited a few minutes to calm down. Once my breathing was normal I headed back outside. Feeling the wind through my fur felt so good. I found a spot where I wouldn't be in the crews way.
Finally it was time to cast off after they took on another passenger, a unicorn mare with red fur and a gold mane and tail with a flaming bird cutiemark. She reminded me too much of that monster Sunbeam Sparkle. Best stay away from her as much as I can. The ship's captain was an older pegasus mare as she gave orders from the rear of the ship by a large wheel. The crew raced all over the ship. Untying ropes and letting the sails unfurl. The ship had two masts with sails. I was curious to why have so many. Wouldn't it be more efficient to have one big one? Soon I felt the ship move. It started slow but the speed built up and soon they were going faster then she ever saw the ships of old did. I walked up the stairs to the back and looked at the city as it shrank. I had rarely left Equestria in….what, my past life? I am unsure how to describe what has happened to me. But now here I was, leaving Equestira likely for the last time. It was no longer home. Not with the clans gone. My only regret that we failed in our bid for freedom. Let Celestia rule Unicornia and let us rule ourselves. We practically did already since she rarely left Canterlot. I bet she still rarely left since Equestria was now Greater Unicornia. I had no future there other then Celestia's pawn. No my future lied in Freeport with the remnants of the clans.
"Home sick already Miss Lance?” I look to my right and saw the captain standing next to me.
“A bit, but that country is no longer home. Hasn't for a long time. It's more regret I couldn't prevent it.”
“What can one pegasus do against Celestia and her brain wash subjects?”
“Exactly, though it begs the question why you trade with them if you feel that way?”
"Trade is the lifeblood of Freeport and Equestria is one of the more reliable partners. Despite who leads them. Personally I think it is an attempt by Celestia to get us to come back.” I rolled my eyes.
“I believe that. So how long till we arrive in Freeport?”
“Five days, other reason we trade with Equestira. Fast turn around.”
“I see.”
“So Windblast told me you are seeking our clan, you claim that you are related to us. So what do you plan to do when you meet the rest of us?”
“Ask to join. I have no pony else to turn to. I may not look it but I have martial training so joining the mercenary side of your clan is desirable.”
“That's up to the materfamilias to decide.”
“Of course.” I look to the sea. “I am glad that title is still used.”
“Of course. Pegasopolis may be gone, but it's legacy lives on in us Doos and the Strikers.” The captain looked down. “For a time the Chargers did as well but they dabbled in dark arts and were wiped out. Torch Charger manage to partially redeem the name but he was the last Charger.”
'Mother, look what you started.' I thought.
“Well maybe not the last. I am of Charger blood.”
“A bold and dangerous claim.”
“I will not hide my heritage. Nor do you have to fear me going into the dark arts. It's dishonorable to do so.” 'And it cost me my mother and the clan. Curse you Celestia. My clan would still live if you hadn't force them from Equestria.'
“Good to hear for I would kill you if you were. Freeport has had enough of such ponies. Well I wish you luck in your plans.” The captain then walked away leaving me alone.
Dinner was a simple affair of bread, an apple, and grog. Grog was a new thing for me. In Pegasopolis, we pegasi didn't partake much in alcohol. Clearly that has change. It wasn't bad but not something I would drink regularly. More importantly was how the crew treated me. The fact I didn't complain about the food was a start. They soon were joking and trading stories with me. I commented every now and again. Treat them as the equals they are. Even the unicorn mare got involved. It was a good time. The first I had in this era.
Soon I got into a routine on the ship. Got up in the morning, ate with the crew, did some exercise to get this body to her standards, and learn sailing from the crew. Freeport was an island nation and sea trade is it's economic blood. At least that’s what I remembered talking with my earth pony cousins when my clan ponies honestly occupied their cities. I was a tad curious and could better assist if I had basic knowledge of how they ran their part of the country and is very similar to logistics, just the exchange of bits added in. I needed to know more since everything ran on bits on this era. The sailors were amicable enough to teach me. I practice my wings when the crew couldn’t teach me. It didn't take me long to get back into my routine in flight training. Going through my flying drills made feel like myself once more. Flying was the one thing to break my usual stoic area. Flying with my family, laughing and teasing each other well my siblings doing that. I remember rolling my eyes at their antics while mother gave a little laugh. Now…
Now
Now they are all dead. I felt pain in my chest and found a cloud to land on. And I cried….I cried for the family I love and missed. I saw all their faces. The Twins Thunder and Flash, so eager to prove themselves in combat, Dusk, my idiotic yet dashing younger brother. Dawn, the young healer. Little Shield, too young for combat. And then Mother, looking over us with pride. I cried, as I will never see them again. The Twins and mother during the war, Dusk, Dawn, and Shield would live to old age but without clan support. I cried. I cried for my loss. The loss of everything dear to me.
“Hey, you okay?” I looked up shocked and saw young Wingblast to my left. She looked concerned. I gave her a small smile.
“Just mourning my family.” She got closer and put a hoof on my shoulder giving me a sad smile.
“They here.” She tapped my chest. “As long as you remember them they are not fully gone. I have lost kin through piracy or mercenary work. Our life is not easy but its ours.” I gave her a smile.
“Wise words from one so young.” Wingblast blushed at the complement. “we better get back to the ship.” Wingblast nodded and lead me back to the ship.
* * * *
The next day the routine was interrupted by a ship closing in. The sailors readied themselves to possible battle. I approached the captain. “Captain, if you have any spare weapons give it to me, I can fight.” The captain frowned but looked at the approaching ship and frown got worse.
“Alright, follow me.” She said and I did so. In the cargo hold she opened a chest. And started digging through. “Your wings are too big for any of my wing blades, so either hammer hooves or a cutlass?” Sadly no lance but the hooves would do. She wasn't competent enough with cutlasses to use them. So she put a pair of hooves on and headed to the deck. The other ship was closer and soon a variation of the skull and crossbones was raised. Spells were already bring fired at each ship. I ducked and approached the edge of the ship. Now arrows and bolts where flying. The pirate ship moved along side and an earth pony swung over only to meet my hoof as I uppercut him and….his head went flying…without his body. I blinked and then got back into the battle. I engaged another pegasus with wing blades. I ducked a swipe of the blade and swung a hoof. The mare dodge and used her other wing and lived my neck and felt my mane get loose and the mare floated in shock. I decked her and her neck broke and she fell. I looked around and saw a Doo in trouble. I dove and tackled the griffon who screeched and raked his talons across my cheek. I yell and crush his head. I with others pushed onto the pirate ship. I ignored the burning on my cheek. I decked another pirate and they went flying. Another punch and another pirate down.
“Lance! Duck!” I did so as a crossbow bolt went overhead. I rolled and looked behind me as an earth pony readied another bolt. I charged and bat the hoof with the crossbow and decked her. Then she saw the pirates raising hooves in surrender. I looked around and no living pirates were fighting but every pony was staring at me. I blinked and wondered why when wind blew a bit of my mane in my eyes. I try to stuff it back into the shawl but I didn’t feel it.
“How did ye mates get an alicorn as part of yer crew?” a
Oh horseapples.
* * * *
I find myself in the care of the ships healer. I grit my teeth as she bandaged my cheek.
“There you go. Far from the worse injury your highness.”
“I am no royal pony healer.” She looked at me confused.
“But, you're an alicorn. By default you are royalty.” I shook my head.
“Not for me. I rejected Celestia’s offer in her face. I am just a pony trying to connect with the last parts of my family.”
“You may have no choice ma'am.”
“Are we done here?” I huffed.
“Yes we are.” I quickly left and walking down the hallway. A sailor approached me.
“The Captain wants to see you. She is in the cabin.” I nodded and headed that way. In minutes I knocked on the door.
“Come in.” I opened the door and saw the captain at the desk looking over some scrolls. She look up.
“Ah, Lance. Come in. Great job during the fight, you were a big help. But were you going to keep what you are a secret?”
“Just till I got to the Doo clan holding and meet the current head of the clan. I have no idea how to use this.” I point to the horn on my head.
“How do you not?”
“I was not born with it. It’s a recent addition.”
“Learn fast for word will get around and ponies will treat you differently.”
“That does seem most likely.” I said with a sigh. The captain gave me a sympathetic smile.
“Go get some rest. You earned it and the rest can wait another day.” I gave her a nod and left her quarters.
* * * *
They rest of the trip was uneventful. We had gained the pirate ship as a prize and was being crewed by some of out ships crew. Since I took part in its capture I was getting part of its prize bounty. Seems the entire world used bits now. I just have to get use to it me thinks. Another thing to get use to was the stares. If they were doing something else the crew stared at me. I was THE ALICORN and I hated it. I was just a normal pony, but they seem to not be able to see that. Or maybe I was just in denial of what I am now. The mark on my cheek was barely discolored fur. I should still gave a scan but no and maybe that would fade. I never saw a mark on Celestia both in the brief time a saw her before the rebellion and even when she met me as I am now. Both times I never saw a scar. At least a physical one. Will I be the same? Seeing centuries pass and ponies grow old around me while I stay basically ageless. Perhaps I see now why Commander Luna went insane, dealing with that fact. I have better mot make the same mistake.
I look at the islands we pass. They were mainly farms of some kind. A few more geared for fishing for the more meat loving species Freeport trades with. Soon a bigger island with a decent size city was in front of us. Houses of various shapes made mainly of wood with some stone towers for defense of the island. The shoreline filled with docks for ships to load and unload from while she saw a shipyard building to repairing ships.
I had finally arrived at Freeport.
I looked over what was to be my new home. It clearly wasn’t like her old clan home. No way a cloud based building could exist here didn’t even look like those in Manehattan. More fragile due to materials used in construction. Thin wood planks from what she could see. Windblast approach me.
“I'll take you to the clan home.”
“I thank thee Windblast.” The filly nodded. And lead the way. We headed down the ships ramp and on the pier. And then soon on the ground. Getting a closer look at the buildings and many were poorly built. Just above the shacks she saw in her time. Many downtrodden creatures lived here. Dirty, disshelved, and in rags if they wore anything. But as they went deeper into the island it got cleaner. Till we stopped at a fortress. Looked like the camps they had set up during the war. Just clearly permanent bit I saw some pegaspolis styling in the construction. Windblast hailed the rampart and Lance saw a pair of heads look over and down at the filly.
“Got someone to see the Clan Mother.” The guard shouted behind him and the gates opened. We walk in and I took a look around. The layout was very reminiscent of my old home. Forge in the right spot, mess hall to the left, barracks over there, and the main building in the center. We entered the main building and was leas to a meeting room. “Stay here, I will get the clan mother.” Windblast soon left me alone. I looked around. It was spartan with Doo colors and a bust here and there of various ponies. I was inspecting one of them then a mare’s voice said.
“Never expected to see an alicorn in our clan home.” I look in the direction of the voice. It was a mare similar age to my mother in Doo colored armor.
“I never expect to be one. I am Lance Charger and I seek to join your clan.”
“That is quite the name to throw around. She has been dead for 800 years and you don’t look like her.”
“All I know is that I was laying on a cot in tremendous pain and my younger sister trying to save me. Then the next thing I know I wake up on a bit of grass where the camp should be looking like this.” I gestured to my body. “I can offer no proof but my words and knowledge. Even if you don’t believe I am who I say I am I hope you will still consider my plea.”
“Why are you desperate to join the Doos baring who you say you are?”
“Because the Doos are all I have left family wise. I woke up in this time and confirmed its was far in the future and my mother and siblings long dead I could take solace that our clan would still be around.” Grief took hold of me and I looked down. “I find out my entire clan is no more. Destroyed by Celestia in petty revenge. Being the clan of my uncle you are the last bit of family I know of. Even if you don’t believe I am who I say I am I hope would still consider me joining your clan.” I then raised my head and looked at the clan mother. She looked me with a serious expression. She then approached and circled me. I moved to stand at attention. She was soon before me again.
“Until I make my decision you can remain here as a guest.”
“I thank you.” She nodded and gestured me to follow. I did so as we left the room and walked down some hallways and back outside to a small barracks like building. Entering it it was indeed a barracks with cots and dresser along the walls broken by some windows.
“Take any cot you prefer. All are vacant right now.” I again thank her and she left. I picked a bunk and stored what items I had. After which I left to explore the clan home. Noting where guards were posted. I smiled in approval. All the right spots. I headed to the blacksmiths place and watched them work. Mother had all our weapons commissioned so I never got to make one myself so I was fascinated by the process. The smith was an earth pony working his hammer. Watching him forge a weapon from the fire in front of him. Soon a lance head was being dipped in water. I soon left and headed for the mess hall for lunch. Stepping into the building the layout out was as I remembered just different material. Those there eating looked up and did a double take at the sight of me. Or more like the sight of my horn and wing combo. I did my best to ignore the looks and headed to the buffet. Grabbing a tray I started grabbing food that I liked…or used to like. Having a new body was vexing. After picking my food I headed for an empty table. Finding one I sat and began to eat. The food seemed better then my time in Cloudsdale. Result of no longer being in the clouds? Or the fact the clan now has earth ponies as members. I wasn’t sure but that would be another adjustment. Due to the nature of cloudsdale the clans were exclusively pegasus for sheer practicality. During the rebellion did meet many earth ponies who were only limited by their training. It will be interesting to see an earth pony with years of pegasus level training.
As I ate I sensed a pony next to me. Looking over I saw a sky blue mare with a red mane. “Yes?”
“Are you an alicorn?”
“I am.”
“Then why are you out here in the boonies with us instead of living it up in Canterlot?”
“Because family is here and I have more in common with you then any pony there.”
“Oh, well I am Flash Doo.” she offered a hoof which I accepted.
“Call me Lance.” She smiled and shook my hoof.
“So you must have just arrived?”
“Yes on one of your ships.”
“Ah, hope it was a good journey.”
“It was. Learning one of the keys to Doo survival was very good.” Flash nodded.
“Yeah, not every pony is cut out for the warrior work but they still contribute to the clan.”
“Indeed. I hope to be added to your clan.”
“Oh? Well an alicorn you be a great boon to the clan. I hope the clan mother agrees.”
“As do I.” She nodded and we ate. When my meal was finished. “I thank you for the conversation.” I nodded to her. Flash Doo grinned at her.
“Anytime!” Such a cheerful mare. I returned the tray and left the chowhall. With nothing else to do for now I headed back to the barracks and rested on my bunk. I was there for till night. With a another meal Followed by sleep. The next morning I was summoned back to the meeting room. I go to hear my fate with this clan.
