Lunar Academyby Lunar RavenChaptersThe MeetingDawn of a new nightChapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 2)Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 1)The MeetingA full moon shines down on the land below, with cool breeze rushing through the neighboring forest, separating a massive building, called the Lunar Academy, from any and all “outsiders,” as though the walls themselves did not do an apt job at doing so themselves. Within the Lunar Academy walls, as the moon is firm in its place, a meeting starts as classes start, between Princess Luna, Lunar Sonata the Headmaster(a dark blue coat and snow white mane and tail), and the special tutor Raven(with a grey coat and black mane and tail, with a blue/black striped fedora), who is always thrilled to be called into such meetings. “I will assume that you both are aware of the reason for this meeting?” Princess Luna asks. “Oh most certainly your highness. I get to train yet another pony to become a heartless soldier ready and willing to set fire to a village of innocent foals!” Raven exclaims with scorn. “That is a bit rough, do you not think?” Sonata inquires in response. “Rough but accurate, at least one time, due to a certain somepony’s faulty intel,” Raven retorts. “I am quite aware of that error, Raven, but beating a dead pony will not-” Luna begins. “What an apt phrase, your highness!” He exclaims. “-solve anything. You are correct though, you will be training a new pony, though she is..an interesting case,” She finishes. “Special case? You mean apart from being a mare?” He asks. “Indeed,” Sonata interjects. “She is actually near the same age as you, a few years younger, though she is not of the Lunar Academy,” She explains. “Wait. You mean to tell me, I am training..” Raven says. “Yes, an outsider,” Luna affirms. Raven, cool-headed as always, slams his hoof on the table. “You must be bloody joking! Since when do we ever allow an outsider, at least one so close to when we normally graduate them into the Academy Guard and Mercenary work, into the Academy? This is absurd!” He exclaims, glaring at the two who are putting this upon him. “At ease, Raven, know your place,” Luna says sternly, Raven grumbling and closing his eyes, shaking his head in disgust. “Anyway, as Luna said, we are bringing in an outsider, as we believe that she would be a good addition to the Academy and its history, but more importantly, an apt soldier to protect Equestria,” Sonata explains. “You act as though we are desperate for more ponies or something, is there something happening that I am being left in the dark about?” He asks. “At this point in time, the information you seek is on a need-to-know basis, and you are not in that circle. What I will tell you however, is that though we have the capability to do as we have done for many moons, we believe this outsider to be imperative to our operations,” Sonata states. “So basically, you are throwing me in with this outsider, leaving me as ignorant as I am assuming she is, to prepare her for something that I have no clue about, all because I am apparently not part of your little elitist circle?” He replies. “Actually, she is a little more familiar..” Sonata admits, to an expected glare from Raven. “..you two are insufferable. I suppose it would be meaningless to press the issue though, so I will reluctantly move on from your lack of information-telling. Can you at least give me the run-down on this..outsider?” He asks with a spat at the word outsider. “Indeed. We already have a file completely set-up for your perusal,” Luna says, with a nod to the Headmaster, who slides said file across to Raven. “Good to know how long this has been in planning..” Raven grumbles, opening the file as the Headmaster begins speaking once more. “While you will no doubt look through the whole file with a fine-toothed comb, I will at least give you the basics,” She begins. “Her name is Holly Leaf, a rather short 18 year old pegasus with a white coat and green mane and tail. Given up at birth to an unknown group for unknown purposes, likely to pay off some sort of debt, she eventually found herself as a maid for a group of wealthy ponies in Manehatten. One of our spies within that group watched the mare and analyzed her, and after the course of a few weeks, reported that she had a strong potential to aide us in our cause. To spare unnecessary details, we were able to get her out of their bondage, and she is in transit this night to the Academy, where she will be residing within your room until the time comes in which she will become part of the ranks, at which point she will likely be on the field. Beyond that, there is little else to really say, and even less that I can actually tell you anyway,” She explains. “Any questions?” She asks. “One in particular..” Raven says. “Yes?” She inquires. “Why the hell is she staying in my dorm? Is that not one of the most-enforced rules on this whole campus, as to not increase the risk the defilement of our prospective troops?” He asks. “Ah, that is an easy one. We are of the opinion that the risk of that happening with you at the helm is so low as to be non-existent, and the second you would try anything..” She begins. “Then I would get an appropriate punishment for endangering the operation, I get it,” Raven finishes. “Precisely. We have no problem with you eventually getting together with her, but..” She tries to say, before Raven bursts out laughing. “HA! Getting together with an outsider? I am not that desperate, captain, believe me that much,” He says. “Oh yes, because your non-existent mare throughout your whole life attests to how much of a mare’s stallion you are,” Luna interjects. “Bloody hell, I forgot you were even there!” Raven exclaims. “Also, that is a lie, I did have the two,” He continues. “You cannot even count the first one as anything but a farce, and the second one died the instant it began because of your other feelings,” Luna says brusquely. “..okay, I see your point,” Raven concedes. “Still, to stoop so low as to date an outsider, you two must consider me in quite low regard,” He finishes. “I think you two may hit it off, actually,” Luna says with a smirk. “I think the same,” Sonata does the same. “..insufferable, both of you! Do not even dare try to court us!” He exclaims. “Calm down, what you do is up to you, but no carnal embracing until that day of marriage, or that prior warning will come into play,” Sonata says. “You really make it difficult to not lunge at you, you know that?” He says, unamused. “Noted, crumbled up, and thrown away due to lack of care,” She replies. “Anyway,” Luna begins. “She will be staying in one of the guest areas for the daylight hours, and you will properly meet her tomorrow night. Get your room ready to house her, and the rest I leave to you. Do make sure she gets to her classes, help her with what she needs, train her, etc. etc.,” She explains. “Yes mother. Should I tuck her into bed too?” Raven asks. “Do not test me,” Luna replies. “So terrifying. Are we done here? I would like to return to my room and figure all of this out,” Raven says. “Indeed. You are dismissed,” Luna responds, Raven swiftly leaving on that cue. At his departure, Sonata turns to Luna. “Are you sure about this?” She asks. “He is our best option to train her, and you know what she is capable of,” Luna replies. “Be it done according to your will, your highness,” Sonata says with a bow. “Ensure that all goes well, captain,” Luna says. “Yes ma’am,” Sonata says with a salute, which is reciprocated before Luna leave the room as well, leaving Sonata to ponder the many moons that lay ahead. Author's Note EDIT note of 6/29/18: Modified Holly's age to 18 for a variety of reasons, making Raven 21 canonically. Thank you for taking the time to read the first chapter of my new story! I hope it was to your liking. Please provide any feedback you may have, and have a blessed one! Note: I am not writing old English/Equestrian for Luna or otherwise because I am not fluent in writing it. I can only read and inderstand it fluently(for the most part) and type/speak limited amounts of it. Dawn of a new nightAuthor's Note *UPDATE AT THE END OF THE A/N* 6/29/18 Update(unrelated to above): Fixed a reference to age and something else I forgot. Hello again, thank you once again for taking the time to read my story! I am thrilled that there has been so much interest thus far into my little work(even if the like/dislike bar does not show it), and I hope that this chapter did not kill off your interest! I do want to say two things though: -If you do like the story, please hit the thumbs up button, so that others may find their way over here, and not be deterred by the dislikes. -If you dislike the story and think I should not quit my day job, feel free to press that thumbs down button, but please tell me the reason as to why, so that I may improve as an author. I want to write the best material I can, and I want to see this story succeed where my others have been put on indefinite hiatuses. In any case, I pray you all have a blessed one, and please provide any comments, questions, and/or concerns in the comments below, and I will happily respond to them! UPDATE: So, hi guys. If anyone is actually wondering, I have not forgotten about this story, simply been stuck in a rut without the time to try to get out of said rut. However, given the free time I currently possess, I will attempt to figure out some way to deliver a new chapter. The updates I put in here were minor, but kind of important for later: Professor Scrolls is actually the question guy, which would make a lot more sense. Raven is introduced as having a sword, as all of the ponies at the academy carry around weapons in the case of an invasion, the specifics of which depending on their specialty. I hope you will excuse my rut, and will bear with me as I figure out a way to deliver to you guys more of this little tale of mine. Dawn of a new night After an extensive time in his studies, pondering what to do about and how to train the outsider he has been given as his next assignment.. He achieved nothing. So, when he went to sleep after the debriefing, he was thrilled for the coming day. Thrilled enough to look at the tantalizing ground from his room. Nevertheless, the ground did not achieve a new friend, and he went to bed, bringing him to the next night, where he shall begin his new mission. As he arrives to the meeting grounds, the main courtyard designed for the assignments of ponies to their fates upon graduation, alongside used to separate ponies into groups for classes and whatnot, he hears one of the biggest yawns he had heard in quite a while. “I have a sneaking suspicion I am aware of who you are, Madame Yawnbark,” Raven calls out, startling the poor pegasus as they both enter the square conveniently at the same time. “Y-yes sir, you probably do,” Holly replies, looking on at the one she was informed about, who will be her tutor. “I would usually forego introductory babble when it is unnecessary, but perhaps we should, both to break the ice and clear the air. That sound good?” He inquires in greeting. “Yes sir,” She responds. “Very good. First off, I am Raven, Special Tutor of the gems that the Headmaster and/or the Crown find, usually within these walls. Secondly, you can drop the sir, makes me feel old. On that note, speak your name, and any questions you may have,” He explains. “I..am Holly Leaf, f-from Manehatten, s-..er..uh..” She fumbles with her words a bit. “Anyway..I am h-here due to-” She tries to explain. “I am aware of your story, outsider, so you need not trouble yourself with recounting it. Also, stop your hesitation, I am not going to kill you, barely even harm you,” He interjects. “O-oh, okay,” She says, trying to straighten her posture a bit with a yawn. “Well, question-wise, I only r-really have three. The first one is, why do you wear that Fedora?” She asks. “Simple. It is traditional, and I think it looks good,” He says. “Okay..” She states. “The second one is, what will your relation to me be during this..uh..process?” She inquires. “I see that her royal majesty and our wonderful headmaster,” He says sarcastically. “are not very good explainers. Simply put, it is my job to ensure that you learn everything that Sunbutt deems necessary for ponies to know, even those of our Academy, while teaching you things actually important, while helping to both discover and capitalize on the potential within you, whatever said potential could be,” He explains. “I s-see. One l-last question..i-if I may..” She states, stuttering again. “Spit it out, cadet!” He exclaims, getting annoyed. “D-do you..hate me?” She asks, looking away. At this inquiry, Raven opens his mouth then closes it, not really having the words for the mare standing before him, looking like but a foal due to her height and behavior, his annoyance rushing out of him. To most ponies, they would melt at simply the sight of her, yet Raven is usually not so deterred by such. Then why was he finding it so hard to completely say what was on his mind? “..No,” He finally says. “I do not hate you, I simply do not care for outsiders, which you are. This Academy has stood as one pure from the influences of the outside, so to even bring in someone from the outside beyond the first couple of years they are alive is to spit in the face of the legacy that has been built up. Your sudden and unprecedented arrival is not something I care for. That is all,” He states. “Oh..” She says, looking back with a frown. “I..understand..” She replies. “Be that as it may,” He continues. “I am under orders to help you out, and my personal feelings matter little if any in that regard. So, at least until you graduate, should you do so, I will do whatever is in my power to make sure you survive and prosper. As much as those two get on my nerves, they would not have brought you in, certainly not to be trained under me, if there was no reason for it. Thus, I am willing to set aside those feelings, on one condition,” He says. “W-what?” She asks. “Stop with your bloody hesitation and stuttering! Here is your first lesson: You will die if you do not grow a bloody backbone, so stop it already!” He yells at her, brandishing the sword constantly kept on his pony and pointing it towards her, making her snap to attention. “Yes sir!” She responds. “Again with the sir..” Raven laments, chuckling and placing back the sword. “Anyway, did either of the two give you any information on your schedule or anything?” He asks. “Yes, and a map. They said you would give me the grand tour of the whole place,” Holly affirms. “..buck.” After his happy reply to the prospective tour, the two moved to the first relevant spot in her schedule, the Equestrian Studies class that she will be attending, in relative silence. “So, this will be-” Raven starts, before looking back to notice Holly struggling to keep up. “Are you quite sure you are prepared to be here? You look like you just ran a marathon,” He continues. “Shut..up,” Holly says as she finally gets to him, panting. “Finally, some backbone! I guess all it took was a good snapping at you. Good to know that you are a quick learner,” He says with a smile. “Buck..you,” She spits back, but smiling as well. “Carnal embracing is not authorized between us, my dear, so I sadly cannot oblige your request,” He states, to her subsequent blush. “Come on! You know I did not mean it like that,” She says with an awkward giggle. “Obviously not, but you were asking for it,” He agrees. “In any case, this is Professor Scroll’s domain, where he stuffs your mind with worthless facts and figures about the outsiders, alongside the interesting information about some of the Academy operations throughout time, which is all you really need to keep in that head of yours after tests from here. You should not have too many problems in this class, only a lot of questions about the outside, so do not worry too much about this one. I will put in word with him and the rest to tell me if I need to get involved however,” He continues in explanation. “Professor Scroll..what an..obvious name,” She comments. “The decisions for the ponies and name assignments are beyond my pay grade, but I would be willing to wager that the ones running this operation simply are incredibly uncreative, and should never write a story or otherwise, much less be part of the naming department. Hell, they named me Raven solely because of my colors, though I suppose I should be grateful for it, as it has a nice ring,” He explains. “In any case, luckily for you, classes are not too far away from each other on one’s schedule, since the school was designed around the birth group system. The trotting will be good for you regardless though,” He continues. “I..cannot really disagree with that,” She concedes. “Good to hear. Let us trot and talk, and run through the rest of these classes a little more quickly,” He says as he begins trotting towards the science class. “Professor Atom, do not even say it, teaches this one. He is a bit of a nutcase, as you will come to learn, and will likely be ecstatic at somepony new. However, do not expect any favoritism, and be prepared to be pressed for any knowledge you may or may not have regarding science,” He explains, as they head towards the Equestrian Language class. “Professor Pen is a rather quiet mare, so you may get along well with her. It is here that you will likely be able to bond with your fellows, due to her teaching style being more of giving you basics and having you group together to fulfill the various tasks that she has in store that day. Nothing else worthwhile to note,” He says, heading towards the final primary class, Mathematics. “Professor Numbers..okay, these names are really ridiculous now that I am thinking about them. The one who comes up with these names should be fired and replaced. Anyway, she is a no-nonsense teacher, similar to me with our first encounter. A tip from the wise, do not make her any angrier at you than she will already be, due to being an outsider. That goes with your fellows as well, as I am not sure how they will react to your arrival,” He finishes with the academic classes, before they start heading towards the Dining Hall. “Here is where you get food, all of which is paid for by the Crown. You can either find a group of friends or sit alone like I did, but I am sure that her majesty and the headmaster would rather you do the former, so long as it does not hinder you any,” He states, as they head towards the training area near their original location, Holly somehow keeping up fine, albeit panting. “It is here that there is an inter-group training in various elements of combat, both offensive and defensive, medical and otherwise. The specifics will be told to you during this stage, so do not worry about that,” He says. “Once this is complete, you will remain on standby here until I come for you, as part of my duties is to get you combat-ready within the short time you will be here. Do you have any questions?” He asks. “Is there a nap time anywhere in the schedule?” She inquires, to a facehoof from Raven. “You will either get used to the night hours, or at the very least will figure out quickly why you should. Best to not have the latter occur, I say,” He says. “Anyway, that completes the tour. Since there is nothing else you are really required to do, I suppose the final stop is my room,” He continues, beginning to trot before pausing. “You were told about your living arrangements, right?” He asks. “You mean I am not staying where I did yesterday?” She inquires, confused, leading to Raven groaning. “I feel like those two wanted me to speak every single important thing to you instead of telling you earlier in my absence,” He says. “To answer your question, no, you will not be. You will be staying in my room, so I can keep my eye on you and monitor..you..” He continues, trailing off at the shocked expression on Holly’s face. “I know, me too. Do not fret, I have taken the best measures I know how to give you your due privacy and all of that jazz, so all shall be well, hopefully,” He finishes. “I-if you say so..” She says, uncertain. “Come on now, you make me sound like a monster or something! If it makes you feel any better, as I have said earlier, those two made it expressly clear what would happen if I tried any-” He tries to reassure her. “I am not concerned about that,” She surprisingly replies. “I am just..that is not something you usually do, from what I have heard at least, and..uh..” She trails off. “Look, whatever the reason is for your hesitance, I have a feeling it is tied to your past, and I will not delve into those matters with you. All I ask is that you give me at least a little bit of trust here. After all, if I am to help you, you have to trust that I will do as I say,” He says. “Alright,” She agrees, trying to relax herself. “Lead the way,” She continues, as they begin their trot to the housing building. “Welcome to my paradise, occupancy of two! Your bed is on the right side here, and mine is on the left. The bathroom is through that door there, and the rest is self-explanatory. What is mine is yours, just use as need-be,” He says, opting for the short-and-sweet method of explanation. “Alright, thank you. It looks..nice, though you did not have to go to such an extent with preparation..” She says, referencing the curtains around the bed, a homemade and rather haphazard locking mechanism for the shower, and various other small things such as blinders on the desk for anything she writes. “If it means giving you at least some extra comfort during your stay here, then I am willing to do it. After all, hell week begins tomorrow, both class-wise and training-wise, so perhaps the brownie points I scored here will help you not to hate me later,” He states with a smirk. “Perhaps,” She agrees with a giggle. “Seriously though, thank you, especially considering how you did not really want me..” She continues, looking away again. “Stop doing that. Honestly, you are better off being here than in the outsider’s world anyway, so that is a good thing. Besides, as I said before, I am not acting on my feelings, I am acting on orders, so no matter how I feel about the whole thing, it will do little to how I treat and regard you as one under my tutelage. So quit your shyness, stop your self-deprecation, and let us continue from this point on as mentee and mentor/tutor, preparing you for whatever situation brought you here. Speaking of, do not talk about whatever it is you know about said situation that you heard from the headmaster or Luna, as it is even beyond my pay-grade to know anything you know about it, so it will definitely be beyond anypony else’s in the Academy,” He responds. “I will do so, and I understand completely,” She affirms. “Good. Let us get going on a good hoof then, deal?” He asks, extending a hoof. “Deal,” She replies, shaking his hoof. “One last question though,” She says. “And that is?” He asks. “When is it time to sleep?” She asks with a yawn. “..you have a lot to get used to,” Raven says, facehoofing again, and groaning at his plight. Or rather, as it is becoming in his mind, only that of an inconvenience. He does not like that change. Not at all. Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 2)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 1)Author's Note Hey guys, this thing still exists! So, this is..a chapter. To be honest, I quickly typed this thing up in maybe the last half hour or so, and decided "Hey, rushing this out after all this time may be a good idea," and so I did. As such, this chapter probably sucks, but hey, what else is new? I hope you all will forgive my hiatus, and while I cannot promise consistency or eventuality, I do want to try to make this story succeed, and will hopefully keep trying to have it do so, even when I do not have the free time that I have just been given recently. The reasons for the part system with this chapter is as follows: Maybe some new people will come and view the story, giving me more views and likes(funny joke), but also perhaps offering critiques and other feedback to make it better. I feel as though I should put something out after all this time for you guys. The first two were it, I just hit enter again and felt like typing something. Please provide any comments, critiques, and other feedback you wish to give. I will be sure to read any comments I get, and fix things as I become aware of them. Have a blessed one, and thank you for reading. Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 1) As the moon casts its light once more upon the walls of the Lunar Academy, all the students therein are either just getting to their respective classes, or are already there. All save for one particular student, a pegasus who definitely was not told explicitly by Raven a half hour prior not to be late her first night, and yet she is still trying to frantically get to her location due to being late. “Stupid night..stupid confusing path..stupid long walks..” Holly mutters, or so she thinks, yet she was loud enough for a unicorn that made her way beside the mare to hear. “I take it you are the outsider that was rumored to be lurking in our midst?” The mare asks, startling Holly. In pure comedic fashion, Holly also appropriately trips and falls due to being startled. “Did you have a nice trip?” The mare continues in joke inquiry, smiling. “No,” Holly replies flatly. “Okay then, see you next fall!” The mare exclaims, still smiling, before noticing Holly’s annoyed expression. “Oh come on! You really expected me to not capitalize on such a wonderful opportunity for a joke?” She continues, now with a straighter face. “I..” Holly begins. “...suppose I cannot argue with that, even if I had the time to do so. I am running late to Mr. Scr-” “Professor Scroll? What are the odds, I am heading that way myself,” The mare states. “You..do not seem worried, why?” Holly inquires, even though her mind is telling her to book it. “Oh, me and Professor Scroll are on really good terms. He knows that even if I am completely absent, which does not happen, I would still be able to do my work properly. As such, he could not care any less about when I trot in,” The mare explains. “Sounds like favoritism,” Holly comments. “Sounds like your ticket to not being penalized your first day due to you being late,” The mare returns. “Touché,” Holly replies. “By the way, what is your name?” She asks. “Silver Truth, though most call me Silver or Ghost, due both to my silvery appearance and my speciality at covert operations. That is why this is my weapon, temporarily that is,” The now-identified Silver states, showing the weapon in question. “Temporarily?” Holly inquires. “Yeah. This is a school-issued dagger. Before graduation, we prepare our graduation weapon, the one we shall use up until we must forge another, for conservation purposes of the original, or of necessity due to being worn and unusable,” Silver explains. “So Raven’s sw-” Holly begins, before Silver gasps. “Raven? The Mentor? How do you know him?” Silver asks in shock. “He was assigned to mentor m-” “Mentoring an outsider? I must admit there filly, I would have never thought that would happen. He hates outsiders about as much as he hates changelings and griffons,” Silver interrupts, putting her hoof to her chin in thought. “That is..huh,” Holly gets out, thinking as well. “Anyway, if you are still here and standing, he obviously has more than enough reason for such to be the case. As such, you should be fine, at least before practice begins. Speaking of, do you even have a weapon yet?” Silver asks. “No, I was not given nor told to have one,” Holly replies. “How strange..” Silver says. “Anyway, we are probably a good bit late to class now, we should probably get going,” She casually continues, trotting in that direction. “This will end well..” Holly laments. “And that is how, class, that the outsider-” Professor Scroll begins concluding on part of his lecture, as Silver and Holly appear. “-showed up late to my class with Ghost. Care to explain?” He continues, looking at Silver. “She was a bit lost sir, and we were talking for a little bit after I happened upon her. Transferring is never fun, especially not to a school secluded from the entire life she had previously lived,” Silver coolly responds. “Methinks you just wanted an excuse to be late again,” A pony pipes up. “Methinks you have no room to talk, Ms. Flattery-to-avoid-being-penalized Rose,” Silver retorts. “Oh how clever, you put a string of words together. How so very creative of you,” Rose responds, not amused. “Both of you need to stop this little back and forth before I hit you both with this book right here,” Professor Scroll states, wielding said book in his hoof. “If you really want to continue this, request a sparring match on the practice field later on,” He continues. “Very well. May me and Holly here sit now?” Silver asks. “You may, but I think that Holly might be able to help with a question we had during both of your absences earlier in the lesson, so she should come closer to me. I believe you asked the question, Mud?” He states, Silver and Holly both following as told. “Yeah. I was wonderin’ about th’ whole weddin’ thing that happened, when th’ invasion-thingy happened. Why did the guard not do anythin’?” He asks. “I was not there..nor did I get much in the way of news. However, from what I know, here and out there is very different. Love and friendship i-” “Love? Friendship? With feelin’-suckin’ monsters hell-bent to destroy Equestria? Sounds like a bottle of stupid,” He interrupts. “But..it worked?” She offers up. “Temporarily, perhaps,” Rose pipes in. “What happens upon their return, however? That they will simply be all lovey-dovey, embracing “friendship,” as you say? The whole good changeling is a dead one, plain and simple. “I concur with Rose, but there is something you forget,” Silver says, looking at Rose. “The guard is primarily for show. Remember what happened when they tried to do anything to our princess during her temporary corruption? As far as we know, the strategy was horrid. They are incompetent, due to “that,” princess’ over-reliance on the “magic of friendship.” It makes sense then, that those of outside would see things through those lens, since they have been basically brainwashed,” She continues. “Believe me..I know a bit too well how those two things are not always possible nor beneficial..” Holly replies, a bit uncomfortable. “Anyway,” Scroll interjects, noticing as much. “Would you mind a question from me? The information I was given is kind of limited,” He continues. “Possibly so,” Holly says. “What brings you to this academy? If you cannot say, then nevermind, but I am sure you will probably get that question more before the night concludes,” He asks. “Pity?” Mud offers. “I doubt th’ outside i’ anythin’ worth a bit,” He continues. “I..am honestly not sure. I was simply given the invite, and took the opportunity,” Holly responds. “How nice The grapevine also tells of somepony you are already fairly cozy with. Care to tell us how you are so close with Raven?” Rose fires at her. “Wait, how did you know about that? I just learned about it from her a little while ago,” Silver asks. “I have my resources. Answer the question, filly,” Rose says, looking first at Silver and then to Holly. “He was..assigned to me to trai-” “Professor Scroll, is this even something that can happen?” Rose interrupts, looking at the teacher. “The decisions of those of a higher pay grade is beyond me, Rose. I do not know of another incident, but I am sure there is a reason why Raven was specifically chosen to train Holly. How about we move on, hm? There is a bit more to cover before this class ends, after all. Holly, take a seat next to Silver,” Scroll replies, pointing to the seat in question. As Holly sits, Silver whispers one last thing before the reconvening of the class. “Welcome to the Lunar Academy.” As the class continues, Raven keeps an eye out nearby, doing his normal patrol. Eventually, he finds himself face to face with the Headmaster. “No, we did not have carnal embrace, Sonata,” Raven says with a straight face. “You mean ma’am.” “Sonata.” “You better be happy that you are irreplaceable, Raven,” The Headmaster states. “Yeah, yeah. What is so important as to interrupt my patrol?” He asks. “Holly was late to class,” She responds, giving him a look of disappointment. “Do not even try to give me that look. I cannot be her babysitter. I gave her a half hour notice, and left her to it. I did not sign up to hold her hoof and be a nanny,” He replies. “I never said you had to, and you never signed up. Simply ensure she does not do that in the future. You know why being la-” “I am well aware of both things. I will add a punishment into our training today and chat with her, alright?” He interrupts and offers. “..see to it that it is done,” She simply says, before trotting away. “Prick.” “Right back at you, Raven,” She replies, continuing on her way until out of sight and earshot. “Why do I get the feeling that things are only going to end poorly?” Raven asks himself, continuing his patrol.
The MeetingA full moon shines down on the land below, with cool breeze rushing through the neighboring forest, separating a massive building, called the Lunar Academy, from any and all “outsiders,” as though the walls themselves did not do an apt job at doing so themselves. Within the Lunar Academy walls, as the moon is firm in its place, a meeting starts as classes start, between Princess Luna, Lunar Sonata the Headmaster(a dark blue coat and snow white mane and tail), and the special tutor Raven(with a grey coat and black mane and tail, with a blue/black striped fedora), who is always thrilled to be called into such meetings. “I will assume that you both are aware of the reason for this meeting?” Princess Luna asks. “Oh most certainly your highness. I get to train yet another pony to become a heartless soldier ready and willing to set fire to a village of innocent foals!” Raven exclaims with scorn. “That is a bit rough, do you not think?” Sonata inquires in response. “Rough but accurate, at least one time, due to a certain somepony’s faulty intel,” Raven retorts. “I am quite aware of that error, Raven, but beating a dead pony will not-” Luna begins. “What an apt phrase, your highness!” He exclaims. “-solve anything. You are correct though, you will be training a new pony, though she is..an interesting case,” She finishes. “Special case? You mean apart from being a mare?” He asks. “Indeed,” Sonata interjects. “She is actually near the same age as you, a few years younger, though she is not of the Lunar Academy,” She explains. “Wait. You mean to tell me, I am training..” Raven says. “Yes, an outsider,” Luna affirms. Raven, cool-headed as always, slams his hoof on the table. “You must be bloody joking! Since when do we ever allow an outsider, at least one so close to when we normally graduate them into the Academy Guard and Mercenary work, into the Academy? This is absurd!” He exclaims, glaring at the two who are putting this upon him. “At ease, Raven, know your place,” Luna says sternly, Raven grumbling and closing his eyes, shaking his head in disgust. “Anyway, as Luna said, we are bringing in an outsider, as we believe that she would be a good addition to the Academy and its history, but more importantly, an apt soldier to protect Equestria,” Sonata explains. “You act as though we are desperate for more ponies or something, is there something happening that I am being left in the dark about?” He asks. “At this point in time, the information you seek is on a need-to-know basis, and you are not in that circle. What I will tell you however, is that though we have the capability to do as we have done for many moons, we believe this outsider to be imperative to our operations,” Sonata states. “So basically, you are throwing me in with this outsider, leaving me as ignorant as I am assuming she is, to prepare her for something that I have no clue about, all because I am apparently not part of your little elitist circle?” He replies. “Actually, she is a little more familiar..” Sonata admits, to an expected glare from Raven. “..you two are insufferable. I suppose it would be meaningless to press the issue though, so I will reluctantly move on from your lack of information-telling. Can you at least give me the run-down on this..outsider?” He asks with a spat at the word outsider. “Indeed. We already have a file completely set-up for your perusal,” Luna says, with a nod to the Headmaster, who slides said file across to Raven. “Good to know how long this has been in planning..” Raven grumbles, opening the file as the Headmaster begins speaking once more. “While you will no doubt look through the whole file with a fine-toothed comb, I will at least give you the basics,” She begins. “Her name is Holly Leaf, a rather short 18 year old pegasus with a white coat and green mane and tail. Given up at birth to an unknown group for unknown purposes, likely to pay off some sort of debt, she eventually found herself as a maid for a group of wealthy ponies in Manehatten. One of our spies within that group watched the mare and analyzed her, and after the course of a few weeks, reported that she had a strong potential to aide us in our cause. To spare unnecessary details, we were able to get her out of their bondage, and she is in transit this night to the Academy, where she will be residing within your room until the time comes in which she will become part of the ranks, at which point she will likely be on the field. Beyond that, there is little else to really say, and even less that I can actually tell you anyway,” She explains. “Any questions?” She asks. “One in particular..” Raven says. “Yes?” She inquires. “Why the hell is she staying in my dorm? Is that not one of the most-enforced rules on this whole campus, as to not increase the risk the defilement of our prospective troops?” He asks. “Ah, that is an easy one. We are of the opinion that the risk of that happening with you at the helm is so low as to be non-existent, and the second you would try anything..” She begins. “Then I would get an appropriate punishment for endangering the operation, I get it,” Raven finishes. “Precisely. We have no problem with you eventually getting together with her, but..” She tries to say, before Raven bursts out laughing. “HA! Getting together with an outsider? I am not that desperate, captain, believe me that much,” He says. “Oh yes, because your non-existent mare throughout your whole life attests to how much of a mare’s stallion you are,” Luna interjects. “Bloody hell, I forgot you were even there!” Raven exclaims. “Also, that is a lie, I did have the two,” He continues. “You cannot even count the first one as anything but a farce, and the second one died the instant it began because of your other feelings,” Luna says brusquely. “..okay, I see your point,” Raven concedes. “Still, to stoop so low as to date an outsider, you two must consider me in quite low regard,” He finishes. “I think you two may hit it off, actually,” Luna says with a smirk. “I think the same,” Sonata does the same. “..insufferable, both of you! Do not even dare try to court us!” He exclaims. “Calm down, what you do is up to you, but no carnal embracing until that day of marriage, or that prior warning will come into play,” Sonata says. “You really make it difficult to not lunge at you, you know that?” He says, unamused. “Noted, crumbled up, and thrown away due to lack of care,” She replies. “Anyway,” Luna begins. “She will be staying in one of the guest areas for the daylight hours, and you will properly meet her tomorrow night. Get your room ready to house her, and the rest I leave to you. Do make sure she gets to her classes, help her with what she needs, train her, etc. etc.,” She explains. “Yes mother. Should I tuck her into bed too?” Raven asks. “Do not test me,” Luna replies. “So terrifying. Are we done here? I would like to return to my room and figure all of this out,” Raven says. “Indeed. You are dismissed,” Luna responds, Raven swiftly leaving on that cue. At his departure, Sonata turns to Luna. “Are you sure about this?” She asks. “He is our best option to train her, and you know what she is capable of,” Luna replies. “Be it done according to your will, your highness,” Sonata says with a bow. “Ensure that all goes well, captain,” Luna says. “Yes ma’am,” Sonata says with a salute, which is reciprocated before Luna leave the room as well, leaving Sonata to ponder the many moons that lay ahead. Author's Note EDIT note of 6/29/18: Modified Holly's age to 18 for a variety of reasons, making Raven 21 canonically. Thank you for taking the time to read the first chapter of my new story! I hope it was to your liking. Please provide any feedback you may have, and have a blessed one! Note: I am not writing old English/Equestrian for Luna or otherwise because I am not fluent in writing it. I can only read and inderstand it fluently(for the most part) and type/speak limited amounts of it.
Dawn of a new nightAuthor's Note *UPDATE AT THE END OF THE A/N* 6/29/18 Update(unrelated to above): Fixed a reference to age and something else I forgot. Hello again, thank you once again for taking the time to read my story! I am thrilled that there has been so much interest thus far into my little work(even if the like/dislike bar does not show it), and I hope that this chapter did not kill off your interest! I do want to say two things though: -If you do like the story, please hit the thumbs up button, so that others may find their way over here, and not be deterred by the dislikes. -If you dislike the story and think I should not quit my day job, feel free to press that thumbs down button, but please tell me the reason as to why, so that I may improve as an author. I want to write the best material I can, and I want to see this story succeed where my others have been put on indefinite hiatuses. In any case, I pray you all have a blessed one, and please provide any comments, questions, and/or concerns in the comments below, and I will happily respond to them! UPDATE: So, hi guys. If anyone is actually wondering, I have not forgotten about this story, simply been stuck in a rut without the time to try to get out of said rut. However, given the free time I currently possess, I will attempt to figure out some way to deliver a new chapter. The updates I put in here were minor, but kind of important for later: Professor Scrolls is actually the question guy, which would make a lot more sense. Raven is introduced as having a sword, as all of the ponies at the academy carry around weapons in the case of an invasion, the specifics of which depending on their specialty. I hope you will excuse my rut, and will bear with me as I figure out a way to deliver to you guys more of this little tale of mine. Dawn of a new night After an extensive time in his studies, pondering what to do about and how to train the outsider he has been given as his next assignment.. He achieved nothing. So, when he went to sleep after the debriefing, he was thrilled for the coming day. Thrilled enough to look at the tantalizing ground from his room. Nevertheless, the ground did not achieve a new friend, and he went to bed, bringing him to the next night, where he shall begin his new mission. As he arrives to the meeting grounds, the main courtyard designed for the assignments of ponies to their fates upon graduation, alongside used to separate ponies into groups for classes and whatnot, he hears one of the biggest yawns he had heard in quite a while. “I have a sneaking suspicion I am aware of who you are, Madame Yawnbark,” Raven calls out, startling the poor pegasus as they both enter the square conveniently at the same time. “Y-yes sir, you probably do,” Holly replies, looking on at the one she was informed about, who will be her tutor. “I would usually forego introductory babble when it is unnecessary, but perhaps we should, both to break the ice and clear the air. That sound good?” He inquires in greeting. “Yes sir,” She responds. “Very good. First off, I am Raven, Special Tutor of the gems that the Headmaster and/or the Crown find, usually within these walls. Secondly, you can drop the sir, makes me feel old. On that note, speak your name, and any questions you may have,” He explains. “I..am Holly Leaf, f-from Manehatten, s-..er..uh..” She fumbles with her words a bit. “Anyway..I am h-here due to-” She tries to explain. “I am aware of your story, outsider, so you need not trouble yourself with recounting it. Also, stop your hesitation, I am not going to kill you, barely even harm you,” He interjects. “O-oh, okay,” She says, trying to straighten her posture a bit with a yawn. “Well, question-wise, I only r-really have three. The first one is, why do you wear that Fedora?” She asks. “Simple. It is traditional, and I think it looks good,” He says. “Okay..” She states. “The second one is, what will your relation to me be during this..uh..process?” She inquires. “I see that her royal majesty and our wonderful headmaster,” He says sarcastically. “are not very good explainers. Simply put, it is my job to ensure that you learn everything that Sunbutt deems necessary for ponies to know, even those of our Academy, while teaching you things actually important, while helping to both discover and capitalize on the potential within you, whatever said potential could be,” He explains. “I s-see. One l-last question..i-if I may..” She states, stuttering again. “Spit it out, cadet!” He exclaims, getting annoyed. “D-do you..hate me?” She asks, looking away. At this inquiry, Raven opens his mouth then closes it, not really having the words for the mare standing before him, looking like but a foal due to her height and behavior, his annoyance rushing out of him. To most ponies, they would melt at simply the sight of her, yet Raven is usually not so deterred by such. Then why was he finding it so hard to completely say what was on his mind? “..No,” He finally says. “I do not hate you, I simply do not care for outsiders, which you are. This Academy has stood as one pure from the influences of the outside, so to even bring in someone from the outside beyond the first couple of years they are alive is to spit in the face of the legacy that has been built up. Your sudden and unprecedented arrival is not something I care for. That is all,” He states. “Oh..” She says, looking back with a frown. “I..understand..” She replies. “Be that as it may,” He continues. “I am under orders to help you out, and my personal feelings matter little if any in that regard. So, at least until you graduate, should you do so, I will do whatever is in my power to make sure you survive and prosper. As much as those two get on my nerves, they would not have brought you in, certainly not to be trained under me, if there was no reason for it. Thus, I am willing to set aside those feelings, on one condition,” He says. “W-what?” She asks. “Stop with your bloody hesitation and stuttering! Here is your first lesson: You will die if you do not grow a bloody backbone, so stop it already!” He yells at her, brandishing the sword constantly kept on his pony and pointing it towards her, making her snap to attention. “Yes sir!” She responds. “Again with the sir..” Raven laments, chuckling and placing back the sword. “Anyway, did either of the two give you any information on your schedule or anything?” He asks. “Yes, and a map. They said you would give me the grand tour of the whole place,” Holly affirms. “..buck.” After his happy reply to the prospective tour, the two moved to the first relevant spot in her schedule, the Equestrian Studies class that she will be attending, in relative silence. “So, this will be-” Raven starts, before looking back to notice Holly struggling to keep up. “Are you quite sure you are prepared to be here? You look like you just ran a marathon,” He continues. “Shut..up,” Holly says as she finally gets to him, panting. “Finally, some backbone! I guess all it took was a good snapping at you. Good to know that you are a quick learner,” He says with a smile. “Buck..you,” She spits back, but smiling as well. “Carnal embracing is not authorized between us, my dear, so I sadly cannot oblige your request,” He states, to her subsequent blush. “Come on! You know I did not mean it like that,” She says with an awkward giggle. “Obviously not, but you were asking for it,” He agrees. “In any case, this is Professor Scroll’s domain, where he stuffs your mind with worthless facts and figures about the outsiders, alongside the interesting information about some of the Academy operations throughout time, which is all you really need to keep in that head of yours after tests from here. You should not have too many problems in this class, only a lot of questions about the outside, so do not worry too much about this one. I will put in word with him and the rest to tell me if I need to get involved however,” He continues in explanation. “Professor Scroll..what an..obvious name,” She comments. “The decisions for the ponies and name assignments are beyond my pay grade, but I would be willing to wager that the ones running this operation simply are incredibly uncreative, and should never write a story or otherwise, much less be part of the naming department. Hell, they named me Raven solely because of my colors, though I suppose I should be grateful for it, as it has a nice ring,” He explains. “In any case, luckily for you, classes are not too far away from each other on one’s schedule, since the school was designed around the birth group system. The trotting will be good for you regardless though,” He continues. “I..cannot really disagree with that,” She concedes. “Good to hear. Let us trot and talk, and run through the rest of these classes a little more quickly,” He says as he begins trotting towards the science class. “Professor Atom, do not even say it, teaches this one. He is a bit of a nutcase, as you will come to learn, and will likely be ecstatic at somepony new. However, do not expect any favoritism, and be prepared to be pressed for any knowledge you may or may not have regarding science,” He explains, as they head towards the Equestrian Language class. “Professor Pen is a rather quiet mare, so you may get along well with her. It is here that you will likely be able to bond with your fellows, due to her teaching style being more of giving you basics and having you group together to fulfill the various tasks that she has in store that day. Nothing else worthwhile to note,” He says, heading towards the final primary class, Mathematics. “Professor Numbers..okay, these names are really ridiculous now that I am thinking about them. The one who comes up with these names should be fired and replaced. Anyway, she is a no-nonsense teacher, similar to me with our first encounter. A tip from the wise, do not make her any angrier at you than she will already be, due to being an outsider. That goes with your fellows as well, as I am not sure how they will react to your arrival,” He finishes with the academic classes, before they start heading towards the Dining Hall. “Here is where you get food, all of which is paid for by the Crown. You can either find a group of friends or sit alone like I did, but I am sure that her majesty and the headmaster would rather you do the former, so long as it does not hinder you any,” He states, as they head towards the training area near their original location, Holly somehow keeping up fine, albeit panting. “It is here that there is an inter-group training in various elements of combat, both offensive and defensive, medical and otherwise. The specifics will be told to you during this stage, so do not worry about that,” He says. “Once this is complete, you will remain on standby here until I come for you, as part of my duties is to get you combat-ready within the short time you will be here. Do you have any questions?” He asks. “Is there a nap time anywhere in the schedule?” She inquires, to a facehoof from Raven. “You will either get used to the night hours, or at the very least will figure out quickly why you should. Best to not have the latter occur, I say,” He says. “Anyway, that completes the tour. Since there is nothing else you are really required to do, I suppose the final stop is my room,” He continues, beginning to trot before pausing. “You were told about your living arrangements, right?” He asks. “You mean I am not staying where I did yesterday?” She inquires, confused, leading to Raven groaning. “I feel like those two wanted me to speak every single important thing to you instead of telling you earlier in my absence,” He says. “To answer your question, no, you will not be. You will be staying in my room, so I can keep my eye on you and monitor..you..” He continues, trailing off at the shocked expression on Holly’s face. “I know, me too. Do not fret, I have taken the best measures I know how to give you your due privacy and all of that jazz, so all shall be well, hopefully,” He finishes. “I-if you say so..” She says, uncertain. “Come on now, you make me sound like a monster or something! If it makes you feel any better, as I have said earlier, those two made it expressly clear what would happen if I tried any-” He tries to reassure her. “I am not concerned about that,” She surprisingly replies. “I am just..that is not something you usually do, from what I have heard at least, and..uh..” She trails off. “Look, whatever the reason is for your hesitance, I have a feeling it is tied to your past, and I will not delve into those matters with you. All I ask is that you give me at least a little bit of trust here. After all, if I am to help you, you have to trust that I will do as I say,” He says. “Alright,” She agrees, trying to relax herself. “Lead the way,” She continues, as they begin their trot to the housing building. “Welcome to my paradise, occupancy of two! Your bed is on the right side here, and mine is on the left. The bathroom is through that door there, and the rest is self-explanatory. What is mine is yours, just use as need-be,” He says, opting for the short-and-sweet method of explanation. “Alright, thank you. It looks..nice, though you did not have to go to such an extent with preparation..” She says, referencing the curtains around the bed, a homemade and rather haphazard locking mechanism for the shower, and various other small things such as blinders on the desk for anything she writes. “If it means giving you at least some extra comfort during your stay here, then I am willing to do it. After all, hell week begins tomorrow, both class-wise and training-wise, so perhaps the brownie points I scored here will help you not to hate me later,” He states with a smirk. “Perhaps,” She agrees with a giggle. “Seriously though, thank you, especially considering how you did not really want me..” She continues, looking away again. “Stop doing that. Honestly, you are better off being here than in the outsider’s world anyway, so that is a good thing. Besides, as I said before, I am not acting on my feelings, I am acting on orders, so no matter how I feel about the whole thing, it will do little to how I treat and regard you as one under my tutelage. So quit your shyness, stop your self-deprecation, and let us continue from this point on as mentee and mentor/tutor, preparing you for whatever situation brought you here. Speaking of, do not talk about whatever it is you know about said situation that you heard from the headmaster or Luna, as it is even beyond my pay-grade to know anything you know about it, so it will definitely be beyond anypony else’s in the Academy,” He responds. “I will do so, and I understand completely,” She affirms. “Good. Let us get going on a good hoof then, deal?” He asks, extending a hoof. “Deal,” She replies, shaking his hoof. “One last question though,” She says. “And that is?” He asks. “When is it time to sleep?” She asks with a yawn. “..you have a lot to get used to,” Raven says, facehoofing again, and groaning at his plight. Or rather, as it is becoming in his mind, only that of an inconvenience. He does not like that change. Not at all.
Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 2)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 1)Author's Note Hey guys, this thing still exists! So, this is..a chapter. To be honest, I quickly typed this thing up in maybe the last half hour or so, and decided "Hey, rushing this out after all this time may be a good idea," and so I did. As such, this chapter probably sucks, but hey, what else is new? I hope you all will forgive my hiatus, and while I cannot promise consistency or eventuality, I do want to try to make this story succeed, and will hopefully keep trying to have it do so, even when I do not have the free time that I have just been given recently. The reasons for the part system with this chapter is as follows: Maybe some new people will come and view the story, giving me more views and likes(funny joke), but also perhaps offering critiques and other feedback to make it better. I feel as though I should put something out after all this time for you guys. The first two were it, I just hit enter again and felt like typing something. Please provide any comments, critiques, and other feedback you wish to give. I will be sure to read any comments I get, and fix things as I become aware of them. Have a blessed one, and thank you for reading. Chapter 3: The New Sapling(Part 1) As the moon casts its light once more upon the walls of the Lunar Academy, all the students therein are either just getting to their respective classes, or are already there. All save for one particular student, a pegasus who definitely was not told explicitly by Raven a half hour prior not to be late her first night, and yet she is still trying to frantically get to her location due to being late. “Stupid night..stupid confusing path..stupid long walks..” Holly mutters, or so she thinks, yet she was loud enough for a unicorn that made her way beside the mare to hear. “I take it you are the outsider that was rumored to be lurking in our midst?” The mare asks, startling Holly. In pure comedic fashion, Holly also appropriately trips and falls due to being startled. “Did you have a nice trip?” The mare continues in joke inquiry, smiling. “No,” Holly replies flatly. “Okay then, see you next fall!” The mare exclaims, still smiling, before noticing Holly’s annoyed expression. “Oh come on! You really expected me to not capitalize on such a wonderful opportunity for a joke?” She continues, now with a straighter face. “I..” Holly begins. “...suppose I cannot argue with that, even if I had the time to do so. I am running late to Mr. Scr-” “Professor Scroll? What are the odds, I am heading that way myself,” The mare states. “You..do not seem worried, why?” Holly inquires, even though her mind is telling her to book it. “Oh, me and Professor Scroll are on really good terms. He knows that even if I am completely absent, which does not happen, I would still be able to do my work properly. As such, he could not care any less about when I trot in,” The mare explains. “Sounds like favoritism,” Holly comments. “Sounds like your ticket to not being penalized your first day due to you being late,” The mare returns. “Touché,” Holly replies. “By the way, what is your name?” She asks. “Silver Truth, though most call me Silver or Ghost, due both to my silvery appearance and my speciality at covert operations. That is why this is my weapon, temporarily that is,” The now-identified Silver states, showing the weapon in question. “Temporarily?” Holly inquires. “Yeah. This is a school-issued dagger. Before graduation, we prepare our graduation weapon, the one we shall use up until we must forge another, for conservation purposes of the original, or of necessity due to being worn and unusable,” Silver explains. “So Raven’s sw-” Holly begins, before Silver gasps. “Raven? The Mentor? How do you know him?” Silver asks in shock. “He was assigned to mentor m-” “Mentoring an outsider? I must admit there filly, I would have never thought that would happen. He hates outsiders about as much as he hates changelings and griffons,” Silver interrupts, putting her hoof to her chin in thought. “That is..huh,” Holly gets out, thinking as well. “Anyway, if you are still here and standing, he obviously has more than enough reason for such to be the case. As such, you should be fine, at least before practice begins. Speaking of, do you even have a weapon yet?” Silver asks. “No, I was not given nor told to have one,” Holly replies. “How strange..” Silver says. “Anyway, we are probably a good bit late to class now, we should probably get going,” She casually continues, trotting in that direction. “This will end well..” Holly laments. “And that is how, class, that the outsider-” Professor Scroll begins concluding on part of his lecture, as Silver and Holly appear. “-showed up late to my class with Ghost. Care to explain?” He continues, looking at Silver. “She was a bit lost sir, and we were talking for a little bit after I happened upon her. Transferring is never fun, especially not to a school secluded from the entire life she had previously lived,” Silver coolly responds. “Methinks you just wanted an excuse to be late again,” A pony pipes up. “Methinks you have no room to talk, Ms. Flattery-to-avoid-being-penalized Rose,” Silver retorts. “Oh how clever, you put a string of words together. How so very creative of you,” Rose responds, not amused. “Both of you need to stop this little back and forth before I hit you both with this book right here,” Professor Scroll states, wielding said book in his hoof. “If you really want to continue this, request a sparring match on the practice field later on,” He continues. “Very well. May me and Holly here sit now?” Silver asks. “You may, but I think that Holly might be able to help with a question we had during both of your absences earlier in the lesson, so she should come closer to me. I believe you asked the question, Mud?” He states, Silver and Holly both following as told. “Yeah. I was wonderin’ about th’ whole weddin’ thing that happened, when th’ invasion-thingy happened. Why did the guard not do anythin’?” He asks. “I was not there..nor did I get much in the way of news. However, from what I know, here and out there is very different. Love and friendship i-” “Love? Friendship? With feelin’-suckin’ monsters hell-bent to destroy Equestria? Sounds like a bottle of stupid,” He interrupts. “But..it worked?” She offers up. “Temporarily, perhaps,” Rose pipes in. “What happens upon their return, however? That they will simply be all lovey-dovey, embracing “friendship,” as you say? The whole good changeling is a dead one, plain and simple. “I concur with Rose, but there is something you forget,” Silver says, looking at Rose. “The guard is primarily for show. Remember what happened when they tried to do anything to our princess during her temporary corruption? As far as we know, the strategy was horrid. They are incompetent, due to “that,” princess’ over-reliance on the “magic of friendship.” It makes sense then, that those of outside would see things through those lens, since they have been basically brainwashed,” She continues. “Believe me..I know a bit too well how those two things are not always possible nor beneficial..” Holly replies, a bit uncomfortable. “Anyway,” Scroll interjects, noticing as much. “Would you mind a question from me? The information I was given is kind of limited,” He continues. “Possibly so,” Holly says. “What brings you to this academy? If you cannot say, then nevermind, but I am sure you will probably get that question more before the night concludes,” He asks. “Pity?” Mud offers. “I doubt th’ outside i’ anythin’ worth a bit,” He continues. “I..am honestly not sure. I was simply given the invite, and took the opportunity,” Holly responds. “How nice The grapevine also tells of somepony you are already fairly cozy with. Care to tell us how you are so close with Raven?” Rose fires at her. “Wait, how did you know about that? I just learned about it from her a little while ago,” Silver asks. “I have my resources. Answer the question, filly,” Rose says, looking first at Silver and then to Holly. “He was..assigned to me to trai-” “Professor Scroll, is this even something that can happen?” Rose interrupts, looking at the teacher. “The decisions of those of a higher pay grade is beyond me, Rose. I do not know of another incident, but I am sure there is a reason why Raven was specifically chosen to train Holly. How about we move on, hm? There is a bit more to cover before this class ends, after all. Holly, take a seat next to Silver,” Scroll replies, pointing to the seat in question. As Holly sits, Silver whispers one last thing before the reconvening of the class. “Welcome to the Lunar Academy.” As the class continues, Raven keeps an eye out nearby, doing his normal patrol. Eventually, he finds himself face to face with the Headmaster. “No, we did not have carnal embrace, Sonata,” Raven says with a straight face. “You mean ma’am.” “Sonata.” “You better be happy that you are irreplaceable, Raven,” The Headmaster states. “Yeah, yeah. What is so important as to interrupt my patrol?” He asks. “Holly was late to class,” She responds, giving him a look of disappointment. “Do not even try to give me that look. I cannot be her babysitter. I gave her a half hour notice, and left her to it. I did not sign up to hold her hoof and be a nanny,” He replies. “I never said you had to, and you never signed up. Simply ensure she does not do that in the future. You know why being la-” “I am well aware of both things. I will add a punishment into our training today and chat with her, alright?” He interrupts and offers. “..see to it that it is done,” She simply says, before trotting away. “Prick.” “Right back at you, Raven,” She replies, continuing on her way until out of sight and earshot. “Why do I get the feeling that things are only going to end poorly?” Raven asks himself, continuing his patrol.
