Recovering is always a terrible bore, no matter who or what you are. This was apparent with the amnesiac visitor, who looked so down and spiritless that yawning was a constant guest. His entire body told him to go out and exercise, to experience the fresh air blowing against his skin while running miles and miles into the horizon. But with a broken arm and leg, as well the nurses constant whining over him resting, there was nothing he could do.

When he had time to think about it(and it was constantly), he was very lucky to obtain these small injuries when considering the impact and fall he made. More than just his arm should've been shattered, even if he was a magical being. Then again, if what they said was true, then he couldn't properly distribute magic within his body. Maybe that could be the empty feeling he's been getting lately? After all, if something that’s a part of you was severed from your very being, it wouldn't exactly be a field trip.

It's been a week since that fateful day. Right now the full moon was out tonight, its starry blessings peppering the sky above. Whenever he looked out at the window to take a few glances, or even just a momentary pause, he felt content and happy that he could see it. Like it was a great honor to be watching something so magnificent and perfect, that it helped him ignore the pain that lanced through his arm.

There was something about it as well that gave him just a little bit of strength. Nothing to sneeze at, but enough to feel somewhat better if you have a cold. Icetra turned his head to spot a few books stacked together on the end table. They were novelizations of bestiaries of the native flora and fauna in their indigenous locations. One was even a romance novel that he described as 'light reading'.

He grabbed a bestiary, titled "Monsters, Beasts, and Legendary Creatures: The Flora and Fauna of Equestria. Vol. 1." Written in in gold text, several clasps and straps were attached to the brown parchment book. It was written by someone named Leonardo M. Yolvin, a member of a guild named Silvaria in a faraway galaxy. The book was old and worn, either from constant use or it was so old and possibly the only copy. He wouldn't be surprised if someone kept reading it. From what he could see it was quite the interesting read, and in a few hours he would analyze and contain the information of many of the flora and fauna in the Everfree Forest, a place of chaotic reign after the spread of Harmony.

This book gave more than just information on monsters. Learning about weaknesses and what they eat is one thing, but having lists of strategies is another! He wouldn't know when he'll utilize these strategies properly, but from his impending adventure this could be very useful in his endeavors. He'll need to remind himself to ask Celestia if he can keeps these books just a little longer. He may have the information now, but he can easily forget if his memories are still jumbled around.
As he read through the thick pages, he didn't realize that someone entered the room. It didn't dawn on him to be distracted from such a lovely read, so he didn't even acknowledge hooves tapping in perfect rhythm.

"We see you are a lover of literature," the visitor said slyly. Icetra jumped at the sound of noise, quickly turning around to face who this intruder was. Well it wasn't another nurse, but an additional Alicorn. This must be Celestia's sister, Princess Luna. From the time he's been here they never encountered each other, so it was surely a surprise until he remembered that this was royalty he was dealing with. Celestia was kind and loving, but he always felt tense around someone with such a high status, especially with the damage he's caused.

"It is a fine night to read. And with my crestfallen condition I don't have much of a choice, Lady of the Night." Titles always did seem to do the trick when it came to impressing folks.

And indeed she smiled, quite happily in fact. "Such a smooth talker for one so young. Tell us, dost – do you really enjoy our night?"

"There's something about the moon that gives me strength. It's as if it's trying to draw out a wellspring of primal power that's locked and hidden away within myself. So yes, I do enjoy your night."
Those compliments about her night made the alicorn mare smile. That someone believed that the night was so sacred, so beautiful sitting before her, was truly something. Something to remember in the future, she thought. She walked over to peer at the book he was reading, perking an eyebrow curiously.

"This has never appeared in this book before. How did you encounter it?" Referring to the chapter title which read: "Undocumented: Essentia Devouratrix". Icetra had no idea how he was able to locate it, explaining that he mindlessly explored the book's pages. Strong curiosity was apparent in the air as they both read the section with a mix of suspicion and wonder. The pages told of monstrosities that devoured on a power called 'Essence', leaving behind a path of barren death as they ate. Mistakes of a noted goddess, they live within the streams of time as well as using them as a means of travel to attack unsuspecting worlds.

They stopped once everything turned blank, save for two sentences in the middle that read: "The true character of Balance has shifted. Beware intrepid Guardian." The two had looks of bewilderment, Icetra flipping the pages hastily. Once he couldn't find anything he sighed, closing the book with hesitance. "Well...that was odd."

"Indeed it was. These pages have never appeared before, and what we discovered is shocking at best."

"Essentia Devouratrix. That strange warning...the two must be connection in some way. Have you seen these creatures before?"

"None. It has never crossed our official bestiaries."

Icetra frowned languidly, scratching at the tip of his temple. "Why do I feel this is familiar," he questioned. Trying to make an attempt to think about caused a headache that rattled his mind. Grasping his forehead he hollered out something that was incoherent, bringing forth concern to the dark blue alicorn. After a few moments it quickly went away, but already beads of sweat began to form around his body, and such a terrible shiver that gave him goosebumps.

Luna looked worried, placing a hoof upon his shoulder. "You shouldn't overthink it - for now. We will show this to our sister," she said as she casted a levitation spell on the book. "She will be interested in this."

Icetra simply nodded, knowing that if the two worked together they could make some sense of this. But he couldn't shake the feeling that this was his doing. Was the book under the influence of an identity spell that once the designated target touched the pages it would reveal hidden contents? That would be the only purpose of the writer, but why him? Why was he destined as some great hero who saves everyone? It didn't sound bad, mind, but something prodding in his head continued to tell him that this was too dangerous. If he's the only one to do this, then what choice does he have?

"Very well. I think for now I'll rest. I'm feeling a little sleepy," he said groggily.

"Of course. We shall take our leave, Icetra." In moments he was alone in the lofty room, laying down on the comfy bed that will soon draw him into a deep sleep. Unfortunately he did not sleep well, for dreams of the fragmented past continued to haunt his resting moments.

Two allies facing against a powerful foe who wore a rictus grin that only heightened his demonic features. A man shaped to be thin; lithe and agile. Red scales adorned his body while his tan underbelly was sculpted to perfection. A tail with spikes on the tip slithered quietly on the regal blood rug, thumping in response to the owner's fury. Twelve horns, both curled and straightened, were scattered around his body: two foot horns rising from his head, another two at the back curled downward, and an additional duo attached to the temple, curled downwards than upwards at the tips. The rest were shaped like thin blades around his arms; protruding dangerous spikes ready to skewer his foes. Lizard-like ruby eyes stared at the two with pure malice, clawed extremities massaging the hiltless, curved black blade maliciously.

A hiss escaped him as he talked, revealing sharp canines and a serpentine tongue. "Do you really believe you can match me now, after all this time?"

The duo looked at each other, nodding in response to whatever was told as sapphire and topaz eyes met. They jumped high in the air and in unison did they attack their enemy. One with a silver blade that was wrapped in wintry wind, and a futuristic plasma gun that shot neon lasers. The halls of the throne room, a demonically twisted room of regal decorations, were filled with the noises of blades clashing and the hail of laser beams that followed.

Icetra and the mysterious enemy were now face to face, their blades meeting brutishly like powerful rivals ready to kill each other. Sparks escaped from the magical metals, both beginning to gather frost as the cold wind pulsated gusts in constant intervals. As the two parted and clashed yet again, slashing and hacking like true warriors, his partner tried to get a good shot as he aimed his plasma gun right to his brain(he presumed). Two shots later the demon was knocked back temporarily, vulnerable to the leaping slash of chilling cold that sliced him horizontally and vertically four times.

The demon screamed before laughing maniacally, frost gathering around his wounds before it broke from the force that spewed out before them. Essence, the lifeblood of the users that were blessed with the gods gift, was splattering and shooting out in different directions. It was quickly absorbed right back into his body, knitting his wounds while sending a shockwave that blasted the two from their feet. "I am not impressed. Is it not funny that I'm just a simple being amongst a legend? I bet it's hilarious and humiliating - for you!"

Two quick jerks with the black curved blade in a X formation sent out two waves of ebony energy, filled with the potent chaotic and lusty foci of the demon that summoned them. Icetra was able to stand up in time to erect a barrier that held its ground, reversing the collided energy with his power and reflecting it back to the original caster. The demon let out a silvery laugh, shrugging his shoulders before literally slapping the X-shaped energy like a pimp. It escaped upwards through the ceiling, blasting it with enough force to send out two miniature shockwaves that ruptured the weakening barrier.
Now the two warriors were dodging collapsing boulders and debris while the shooter blasted the rocks into dust. The spiky, blond-haired gunman yelled out to his partner, along the way trying to blast the demon that was charging straight to his friend.

"Lucyana shall be here soon! Do not falter until she arrives!"

"I know, dammit! But he's too strong," he said as he met with the demon's blade, bursts of black and blue energy hurtling and colliding from the frequency of the blades. In time the two did enough damage to weaken the walls of the throne room, those four mountain carved walls ready to collapse. Leaping into the air, they performed a series of gymnastics that brought their blades to constantly meet each other, releasing large shockwaves as they made the air their playground. It sent and destroyed the skull-embedded throne as well the stained windows, sending glass all around the battlefield.

One chunk unfortunately struck the blue-haired warrior's forehead clean, disorienting him. He didn't have enough time to repel the incoming clawed slap that sent him skyrocketing to the archway stone doors. His partner yelled his name, shooting rapidly at the demon who was reflecting every laser that was sent his way with the pimping power of his right hand. Not wasting his time he charged forward and slashed the gunman rapidly in numerous directions before twisting and spinning his body to smack him with his spiked tail. It wouldn't be long before the duo would join together with the same fate, both leaking out different hued Essence correspondent to their innate features: blue and yellow respectively.

"This doesn't bode well for us," said the blond individual.

"You're telling me. Dumb demons are always cheating." The blue-haired warrior spat at the ground, before coughing and heaving from the pain. "Where's a fairy when you need 'em..."

"Hopefully before this moment, because Hasha is casting...something."

Indeed he was, as the demon now known as Hasha was casting a spell that was best described as lewd. Sex symbols were instead the runes that aligned and fueled the spell, as this one was created from the bottomless pit of his lust. During the entire time he had this demonic smile that could give anyone the willies, revealing his dangerous, dagger-like canines. As the spell became stronger, surrounding the caster in a black aura that was beginning to grow haywire, he laughed with insane intent, his wide dilated eyes taking the same feature. "Now become what you're fighting for, and suffer from the weight of sin!" The spell appeared ready to explode before it was casted, letting out a loud, sensual womanly moan.

"Oh shit," they both said together, unable to move away from the sphere of pure lust.

"GAAAAH!"

Icetra shot up to sit down, screaming at the top of his lungs. Bally blue blazes! That dream was going fine, too intense, and then to something so horrible that he couldn't describe in words. Even if the dream didn't finish he could tell something terrible did befall himself and the other, who could be described as a 'technomancer' with his strange mechanical attire. Or maybe the shock of it all made him overreact. Whatever it was, it was an unpleasant alarm that woke him during today's sunrise.

Since he's arrived in this crippling state he's always had breakfast, lunch and dinner in his room. The food usually consisted of fruits and vegetables that were so fresh and delectable it had to be forbidden.

Today would be a little different. He was currently being wheeled by a nurse, who was requested by Icetra to allow him to do it himself. This one was real grumpy but more serious of her job, saying she can't upset the wishes of the princess. He muttered grumpily before reluctantly accepting his lazy fate.

A few minutes later he was wheeled in the royal dining room, which was comprised of the same lofty designs, paintings, and the archway that they entered. The round table was smaller than expected, though it was large and wide enough to hold ten people. Upon it were an assortments of fruits, vegetables, tea, and snacks. Scones, cinnamon rolls, buttery biscuits...they were so many delights he couldn't stop drooling. The princesses must go through a tight training regimen to keep their figures from sagging.

Before him were the princesses, who continued their daily business until they heard the creaking of the door, an obvious signal that someone has entered the royal dining room.

Celestia stopped eating to say good morning to the drooling dragon, humored by his silliness. Luna merely looked up and nodded, returning as quick as she greeted to her pancakes. Celestia was calmly eating a stack of waffles along with orange juice when he came in. And now Icetra would be eyeing the entire menu right in front of him, starting with the warm, flaky cinnamon rolls that were quickly devoured. The icing, the cinnamon, hints of buttery deliciousness - it was truly divine. A simple confection had to be made by a chef of the highest caliber.

The trio talked about small, inconsequential things. Some topics were reached about the continent of Equestria, its stability and the citizens that dwelled on the massive piece of land. It was interesting to learn that it was the only major continent of this planet, along with a few archipelagos and islands that dotted the sea. Celestia told a story about why the planet Ether was in this condition, about a horrific war that sunk all the continents into the maw of the perilous sea. Equestria survived merely by a lucky shot, from an ancient barrier that is still erected from the old days. It's why the continent was so peaceful, as it repelled invasions from the Dragons and Griffins as well as strange anomalies that threatened the stability of the land.

When Icetra asked as to how he was able to enter Equestria if the barrier was in place, he was simply told that he appeared inside from the barrier. If it were the opposite it was a high possibility that he may be sent straight into the ocean. He couldn't help but thank whatever force out there spared him from that fate. Then again, what if he was just merely sent to the other islands or mountains that houses the Dragons and Griffins? He doubt he would get the same gentleness and courtesies like Equestria, as Luna earlier pointed out in the conversation that they were more vicious and territorial than the ponies.

Only ten minutes have passed since that conversation. The rest of the food was devoured by none other than Icetra himself, stomach protruding while he wore a smile of content. He vaguely wondered if this will cause his weight gain to rise exponentially, though he dismissed the thought as he returned to enjoy the feeling of fullness. The two sisters were surprised at first that such a skinny kid could eat so much, nearly surprised that he wasn't already thick. But they accepted it quickly, giggling at his ravenous appetite.

Icetra did a long sigh, patting his belly like one would to a drum. He stopped instantly after he felt a little queasy. "After I heal I'm going to need to train. I will not accept being a chubby dragon."

Celestia giggled, "It wouldn't be so bad to gain a little weight. You're too," she slowly paused, trying to word it without sounding offensive.

"Skinny. Thou – You are shaped like a rail. Unacceptable for a warrior."

Icetra placed his hands on his stomach, looking at Luna with a raised eyebrow. "What makes you think I'm a warrior?"

"We can feel the fire inside of you. It has a desire to be tempered."

Celestia chimed in to agree. "Yes, I can feel it too, though gaining more muscle might ruin your potential. You seem more built for agility rather than brute strength."

Luna chimed in, "But you need strength if you ever going to hurt someone. It's impossible to do anything with the strength of a gnat."

The white alicorn simply stared at her with a small frown. "Let us not have this argument again, dear sister."

Icetra was just sitting there, all quiet like as he watched the two in the boundaries of a potential heated argument. "That's sure a hot topic for you two, huh?"

They both blushed before looking at each other, then scoffing while turning back with a 'harumph'. Icetra couldn't help but chuckle at the childish display.

They were once more caught up in conversation, slowly drifting to the notes that they found in the bestiary. Celestia was surprised to hear of an additional set of notes about these strange, legendary creatures. She didn't exactly seem too worried, more or less intrigued by such a discovery. Icetra expressed his concern after telling the two that one day these monsters could invade Ether one day. But it was quickly dismissed by a alabaster hoof, as Celestia explained the barrier would protect them from the attack. Although she and her sister will be there if they try to conquer the rest of the world.

When Icetra asked if they knew the writer well, all they said was that he was an eccentric feline who wanted nothing more to learn about the indigenous flora and fauna of Ether. He wasn't much for socialization, but reliable in troubling times. It was Leonardo that discovered the cure for Poison Joke, as in the past people suffered from its pranks without anyway to stave off the effects.

The trio began to leave the room together, continuing their little chat as the staff ponies walked over to take and clean the dishes. While the sisters were conversing with each other, Icetra took the chance to think of his condition again. He may be thinking about it too hard, but he couldn't help it! Staying trapped like this, along with the confusing mess that is amnesia looming over him was beginning to become a bit too much.

He needed excitement! To play in the fields and dance in the sunlight! Or feel the wet touch of the raining heavens under his soles. He looked up to the princesses and expressed this, downhearted through the entire explanation. The princesses looked back and nodded, revealing two smiles.

"Worry not, Icetra. While your arm and leg are not currently healing, our latest test show that your body is slowing taking in the magic in the air. Which means good results for your wounds."

"Yes, it's quite amazing at the speed it's going. Only Mystics carry such a gift," said the nurse who was pushing the wheelchair.

"I know, I know. Time will heal all wounds 'n junk...but I just wish it would be over soon. It may be a big room, but I feel so cramped in there."

Celestia patted his shoulder, looking down to him with a warm smile. "Your wish will only intensify if you're patient. Do just that and I assure you you'll enjoy yourself more." She turned her head to face one of the windows, glancing at the gardens below before returning her gaze to Icetra. "Do you wish to go to the gardens with us, Icetra?"

"Sure, why not? I need the fresh air."

It didn't take as long as before going to gardens, as for this method they were teleported in front of the hedge archway. Icetra remembers fondly of going to this lengthy maze yesterday, having quite a blast yesterday with Ember. He befriended some of the animals that dwelled within, striking some surprise to the last nurse that wheeled him here. Apparently the animals take care of themselves in the gardens, which means they don't interact with many people. Frankly he found it was easy talking to them by just simply talking as if they were normal human beings. He couldn't understand them but they can tell they were happy to see him, and it warmed his heart to witness such emotions from those cuddly animals.

It was obvious when they crossed and traveled leisurely through the maze that they met the animals who at first jumped out in surprise, before spotting Icetra. Their attitudes went through a 360 as they hopped, cried, and eeped in excitement. A bunny jumped right straight into Icetra's lap, its beady eyes staring into cerulean. He couldn't help but pet the adorable mess of fur, smiling as he did so. Celestia and Luna awwed at the cute display, grinning widely. Icetra couldn't help but blush, "It's a mystery why they're attached to me, but I'm not complaining," he said through chuckling.

They followed suit until they reached the statues, scurrying away from the stone statues. He never knew why they ran away at the sight of these constructs, but apparently some of these troubled souls were locked away for past crimes. One massacred an entire village, while another was an infamous bandit who pillaged and killed for the fun of it. He wasn't aware of the others that covered this section, and he didn't want to know.

The one that always confused him was this statue that was an amalgamation of different animals parts. To describe it would take too long to even ponder about it, but its recognizable features were the goat's goatee and mismatched eyes, as well the pony head. He was posed in a cheerful manner, as if he were singing in praise. Imprisonment must have been nothing compared to what he done. Celestia trotted over next to him to eye the statue as if it were an iniquitous light.

"This is Discord, the Spirit of Chaos that once ruled Equestria with an iron fist. He pranked this land to submission, crippling and destroying our people's homes, businesses, and the very thing that gives them hope."

She told him of what he done. Chocolate rain, cotton candy ponies, turning the ground into peanut brittle...it seemed that this Discord truly loved decadence. Basically what he was doing was probably ruining crops, deteriorating houses, and just plain causing craziness. Celestia explained that Discord was the reason why the unicorns had to navigate the weather, as the influx of chaotic magic made irreversible effects on the environment. What kind of power this mysterious creature wielded to ruin the weather itself? He flinched, a little bit relieved that this being was locked away.

"We cannot allow this insane anomaly to escape his prison, else it will spell doom to Equestria." said Luna who look so crossed.

Sure, doing those terrible things warrant an arrest, but maybe imprisoning someone with their own thoughts for so long probably wasn't the best for sanity. He almost felt bad for the pompous chimera. From that though he could've sworn the left eye of the statue gleamed maliciously. Must be a trick of the light.

"Haven't you thought of rehabilitation for your criminals? Imprisoning them makes sure your people are safe, but if they ever escape again it would only make things worse."

"No, Icetra. While it could work for some of our criminals, we cannot risk the safety of our ponies. Discord is far from our reach," Celestia said sternly. It felt like she was lecturing Icetra. Was his kindness misplaced to someone that deserved this fate? Or was it truly unjust to just lock someone away in stone for a thousand years? This was a conflict that would stay with Icetra like heartburn.

"The seal is still intact, sister," said Luna.

"Good. Icetra, do you want to return to the room?"

"Nah. I think I'm in the mood for the library."

"Very well. We'll teleport you there and send a nurse to keep an eye on you."

Now Icetra was starting to look a little peeved. "Celestia, this is not needed. I can take care of myself."

She simply shook her head. "Don't give me that. Until you recover you will be assisted by a nurse. We still have little understanding of your biology, and anything can happen. It is imperative that someone is near when that occurs."

Icetra reluctantly agreed, frowning slightly. "...Fine. But I will express my dislike for it."

"And while you're doing that we'll teleport you to the library." She smiled while casting a spell. In an instant they were inside the room where thousands of books were housed in monstrous wooden bookshelves. This place always had class when he came into this gigantic room. Celestia was now the one that pushed his wheelchair over to the desk, of which the designated seater felt embarrassed. Of why he did not understand but it may have something to do with royalty taking over a servant's position. These alicorns were too humble.

The librarian questioned Icetra as to what books he wanted to check out. That is, until she recognized him and pointed out that he already checked out some books yesterday. Having no desire to check out more, he merely requested where he could locate a list of different books that would expand his knowledge of Equestria. In moments the unicorn teleported a stack that had to been at least thirteen feet tall.

"Enjoy your reading, sir."

"Oh, I most definitely will," he said with excitement in his voice.

Celestia giggled over his joy, remembering a certain unicorn that carried the same enthusiasm. It shouldn't have taken so long for the two to meet, but the two were far away from each other. Now Icetra was starting to follow the same pattern much like her student. Maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea for the two to meet one day.

"I must leave you, Icetra. I need to open up the court. I'm pretty sure you're sleepy, Luna."

"Indeed. Have a good time you two."

"A good time in court? Yes, that'll be interesting."

Icetra didn't respond to the sisters, already engrossed in the rippling tale of Equestria's Founding. He sighed contently, carrying a dreamy expression from the huge enjoyment of reading his beloved books.

"He's just like your student, sister."

"Yes, I'm sure they'll get along great one day." Thus they walked away and left the library, leaving behind a studious dragon to his books.

Maybe the sister knew he would be here for a while, for the nurse didn't arrive until night. For over thirteen hours he was reading the stack that was now a neat pile, and there was only one book he didn't finish yet. Labeled the 'Mare in the Moon', it was a short pile of pages that from what he read in the beginning, was about a mare who wanted nothing more than for her ponies to enjoy the night. But the ponies played in the day while they slept in the night. Jealous of this, she tried to cast an eternal night upon the land so that all can enjoy it forevermore. It wasn't long before she was sealed in the moon by Celestia, which was discovered through some thinking that this 'Nightmare Moon' was Luna.

By asking the night time librarian he discovered that there was a prophecy that would bring Nightmare Moon to return, and that she did appear a year ago. The Elements of Harmony thwarted her attempts at casting an eternal night, and through the prismatic light of the Elements was the darkness of Luna shredded and banished, returning the Princess to them.

To think that in the past she harboured so much jealousy in her heart, just because she assumed no one enjoyed her night. While one would usually harbor some form of resentment that Luna could have utterly destroyed everything if the night persisted, Icetra didn’t understand this. Rather, he was almost delighted at the idea of an eternal night. Rational thought casted away by child-like intrigue, Icetra squeed at this concept. But he knew it was never going to happen, and with good reason.

Luckily the book was short enough that he was able to buy some time from the nurse before he had to leave the vicinity. Once he was finished, he was being pushed by the nurse back to his room. This was the same one from earlier, and from recognizing her he tried to make conversation. They talked about small, miniscule things that could be applied to everyday life, including her name. He found out her name was Bonnie Crest, a Earth pony that has worked here for two years. The two did get along great, until they arrived at the door. They almost seemed sad that they had to part, until Icetra made a offer for her to come inside with him.

"After all, you guys need to keep tabs on me, right? It wouldn't be such a bad idea."

Bonnie Crest smiled at him, nodding. "Hmm...okay, I'll join you."

After that good times were heading for the chatty duo. Gossip, exchanging recipes and sound advice of a lovely was something Icetra needed. Sure, there was the sister princesses but he always felt constricted when talking to them. It felt nice talking to someone with the same class, even if she was working with the princesses themselves.

"One of these days we'll have to get you to try pumpkin pie. It is simply divine."

"It sounds delicious. Pie and cake appears to be quite a staple for ponykind."

Bonnie Crest nodded in response. "Yes, our princess partakes the usual vanilla, buttercream frosting cake that we serve her."

The mention of cake brought him to a thought about Celestia that he noticed when she was trotting. "So is that why --"

"Yes."

"How did you --"

"It comes up naturally," she muttered, giggling along. "Just don't mention it around her."

"Do you truly think I'm that wrong?"

"Weeeeell, you seem too playful for your own good."

"Pshaw, I am quite proper when I'm around the ladies," he said with an exaggerated hand wave.

"More like overcompensating for something, you heartbreaker~"

For some reason he looked and felt quite offended at that remark, but he didn't understand as to why. Must have been some sort of reflex that wasn't shaken off during his amnesiac condition. He simply shrugged while eyeing at her carefully, chuckling nervously. "I-I don't know what you mean..."

"I'm kidding. I'm sure you're fine down there," she said while bumping her hoof at his right thigh. She couldn't help but chuckle at seeing the cute reaction that Icetra made, as well the dim scarlet red flushed on his pale blue cheeks.

Icetra was surprised at how bold this mare was, but he surely didn't mind a bit of playfulness. As long the two were laughing and joking along the ride, anything can happen if it wasn't, well, perverse.

But the time of playing would soon be over, as a sleepy yawn escaped through his opened mouth, stretching his arms and legs high and wide. Bonnie could obviously see that he was beginning to become restless, so she left the room with a warm goodbye to follow. But before she had the chance to leave Icetra called out to her.

"You're the second open minded pony I've met. I must ask, why aren't you scared of me?"

Bonnie Crest responded so quickly that Icetra almost didn't have the chance to finish his sentence. "Because the princess trusts you. Some ponies are ignorant to the fact that anyone the princess considers a friend is a friend to all of us."

Icetra nodded, wearing a beatific smile. "I'm glad that you think that way, Bonnie."

With that Bonnie Crest nodded and left the room, shooting a smile to the already smiling boy. Icetra could feel that today's sleep won't be so bad. He had a good breakfast, went to see the gardens, and read a bunch of books that broadened his considerably small horizons. Not to mention he made a new friend out of it all, though her being a major tease would bother him, if he actually understood what it meant.

So now our hero sleeps under the moon's gaze, snoring peacefully under the cool side of the bed. No haunting dreams came to him this time, only ones of soothing calmness and good times.

Meanwhile, inside the throne room of Canterlot were two Alicorn sisters caught up in a heated discussion that brought fixed expressions of worry and concern.

"Perhaps we could --"

"No sister, he is not ready."

"But all we would need is his soul to assist me!"

"And what if he can't remember how to fight? Muscle memory is nothing if he cannot remember how to hold a blade."

"We have seen his scattered dreams, and could tell that he is a magic knight of sorts. He has many tricks up his sleeve..."

"...That he cannot remember. I'm sorry, but until he can recover his abilities the Protector cannot engage in combat."

"It's because of HIM that we're in this predicament! Haven't the legends always said, "Come once, come twice, doth the Protector bring and cleave down evil, to revival and destruction?"

"Of course. But what can he do in his situation? We can only hope for the best, and that is for him to have a speedy recovery. But memory isn't something that just comes along..."

Luna was ready to explode, unable to accept the fact that she must leave the Dreamscape in this dreadful condition. No, the boy must be able to help. He has to! Or else the ponies will never have a restful sleep. If they simply waited for Icetra to feel better it could take weeks before that happens. Appearing to look defeated, she agreed with Celestia with the condition that he'll get his needed rest until his recovery. But it would be nothing more than a lie. A lie that could very well save thousands of dreams.

Celestia walked to the massive marble doors that were now being opened by her magic, and left them that way for Night Court. She looked at her sister once before turning and walking away, concern still prevalent in her mind.

"Don't do anything you'll regret, Luna..."

It is now the afternoon time of the next day, a setting where the sun was high in the sky. The clouds were white and puffy, the birds sang even in this monstrosity of a city, and hustle and bustle of Canterlot was loud as one would expect in a capital city.

Right now Icetra was amongst the people of the city, receiving stares and glares that were a mixture of curiosity and despicable behavior. Which is likely due to his own mysterious being, especially when he practically just crashed into the seat of power like he was some kind of missile. Instead of bickering and complaining about the stares, he took them like a man and continued to be wheeled by the lovely but shy Ember to the proper destination: a old-fashioned diner with a circular white wooden sign above that read Curly Joe’s.

Entering the building a ring called out as they opened the door. Icetra presumed it was some kind of communicator that alerted others. But there was no one here currently, so he guessed that this lunch would be pleasant without the scrutinous stares bombarding him.

Ember took a seat to the opposite direction of where Icetra sat. He moved one of the chairs out of the way so he can make himself comfy. Although relaxing was one thing he couldn’t do just yet, as the proprietor (he assumed due to the size of the business) and the only cook manned in the back ran over to them. Icetra jerked his head to see that the brown coated, black maned stallion left behind a dust cloud from where he earlier stood, eliciting a chuckle on Icetra’s end.

“Welcome to Curly Joe’s, where ponies leave with full bellies! How can I - ah!”

He took one look at Icetra and nearly jumped out from his spot, his bottom lip quivering either in fear or - something else. “Y-You’re that guy who crashed into the mountain!”

Icetra merely sighed, forcing himself to smile wide without looking too mischievous. “I am. You have my sincere apologies for entering this beautiful city in such a fashion,” he said while bending his upper half, promptly bowing, “there will be a punishment for such a crime, but for now your princess has allowed me an reprieve. Please, just serve us, and will we be out of your hair.”

Ember was quite nervous, prepared to explain the situation if it was about to get out of hand. After all, it was her idea that Icetra should spend some time at this place, and that meant going out in Canterlot. She didn’t want this day to be ruined because of that.

“Now now, no need to get so formal,” the proprietor said, his tone less shaky and nervous than before. He straightened himself up while dusting off his clothes, looking at Icetra with a look of small concern. “You don’t exactly look bad, so I’d be willing to serve ya without any trouble!” he exclaimed while smiling.

Icetra responded in the same way, fixing his posture as he nodded to the owner of the store. The stallion introduced himself as Curly Joe, which confirmed our hero’s earlier suspicions. Eventually they were given menus to peruse through. It didn’t take long for the duo to order their respective food items. The dishes came in surprisingly quick, which made Icetra skeptical at first. But smelling what lies before him casted away any doubt.

He quickly gobbled up the plate of piled hay fries, not even wasting time to savour the taste. No, food was meant to be eaten, and that was going to happen!

Recall a certain saiyan child and you can get a good idea of what’s going on.

"How can you eat so much and still stay thin?" questioned Ember, who looked flabbergasted to say the least.

He raised a pointed finger near his right cheek to signal he had a stuffed mouth. After a couple moments of chewing and swallowing, he audibly "aahed". After that satisfied moment he looked back at Ember with a confused expression.

"I-I don't eat that much..."

"Celestia tells me things, you know. You eat more than the princess!"

Icetra just blinked while shrugging, this time eating one fry at a time while he talked, trying his hardest not to spit any food at his lovely date. "Whaddaya know. She gossips. I should've expected that."

Ember giggled at his response, raising an eyebrow. "Soooo."

"What?"

"What's your secret?"

"Oh, uh," he blurted, resisting once more the temptation to devour these fries. He continued to take it slow, but it was really tearing him apart. "I don't know...fast metabolism? Freakish things like that happen to people."

"Do you know how lucky you are?" she questioned, exclaiming. "You have a gift that so many mares dream of!"

"I don't think it's all that big of a deal," he said while chewing. He once more raised a finger while chewing and swallowing, repeating the same action that earlier occurred. "I mean, it's nice to stay thin 'n all, but I do wish I had more meat on my bones."

"When you put it like that, yeah. But think about it. Eating anything you want without the cost of gained weight? Now that's a dream."

Icetra simply nodded, looking at Ember with a curious glint in his eye. "You seem very serious about your figure, Emmy."

"Of course I am!" she said in a raised voice, smiling all the while. "I've worked hard to achieve the figure that I wanted for so long, but it's so hard not to mess up my regimen."

All Icetra did was nod, calm in the situation of a woman who was obsessed with her figure. But he couldn't help but take a few glances at the toned mare. He had to agree, she looked good.

"I don't think you have much to worry about. Unless you go crazy on cake or something."

"I did that once," she paused, grimacing, "I gained four pounds that day. It took so long to lose all that weight."

"It happens to all of us in the face of temptation. The key is to focus on the goal at mind so that you never lose your determination. But that's easier said than done," he muttered under his breathing, sighing. "People can be so weak sometimes."

"Yes, I'm still like that. It's – It's so hard to just keep up my exercise. Sometimes I wish I could just give up and just lay on the couch."

Icetra frowned slightly, facing downward as began his crestfallen mood. "I'm sorry if I offended."

"No...you're right. I need to stop beating myself up. I need to work 1100% all the way!"

"N-Now now, there's such a thing called too much effort," he said while chuckling.

She chuckled at his comment, beaming a beautiful smile while she did so. Delicately drinking down the glass of water, she placed it back on the table with a resounding thump. "You're really something, you know that?"

"What do you mean?" Icetra questioned.

"You're just...so fascinating to be around. The raw energy, the influential aura. You're so gregarious."

"Grega – what?" he questioned, baffled.

"It means being friendly silly." She leaned over and thrusted a playful hoof upon his shoulder blade, giggling.

"You're awesome to be around too, y'know," he said nervously.

"Me? I'm nothing special."

"Don't kid yourself! You're a good nurse, a sweet talker and one rockin' body."

"Oh, Icetra," she slowly began to blush, placing both of her hooves onto her cheeks. "You can be a real casanova."

Icetra couldn't help but release a hearty laugh at the compliment. "I just speak the truth. That's my secret."

"You should keep sticking to it."

While she said this Icetra was already guzzling down the glass of water placed near him. Cautiously planting the glass back on the table, he flashed a smile of serenity directed to the creamy mare.

"Maybe once I'm recovered we should exercise together."

"Not a bad idea, Icey," she said, her blushing face visibly intensifying.

"Oh, I like that nickname."

"Good, 'cause I'm sticking with it," she said in a singsong voice.

Icetra chuckled, winking at her while flashing those canines of his. This time it didn't frighten Ember, but it did increase the intensity of her blush. Icetra didn't know it was even possible to blush that far, but it sure was a cute look for her.

"Where do you wanna go next?" he asked Ember.

"How about the royal garden?"

"Oooh...how romantic," he said as he leaned against the table, "are you trying to seduce me?"

Ember giggled profusely, smashing her hooves against her cheeks, looking heavily bashful. "N-No! I-I-I just want to, you know, g-g to a beautiful place with a f-friend!"

"Oh? So you consider me a friend?" Despite the situation he was calm and smiling, reveling from the embarrassed pony. "That didn't take long."

"To be honest, I...I already considered you a friend when we met. The way you convinced me made me feel bad, as I should have realized that anyone Celestia trusts can't be evil or monstrous." Her blushing began to wane away, taking a more serious stance this time. "So this was my way of saying sorry."

"Well I had a lovely time. I believe your attempt succeeded swimmingly," he said loudly and excitedly. Icetra was acting quite animated after that little speech of her's, happy that she already considered him a friend. That was two down! But it wasn't enough. Oh no, it wasn't far enough. He wouldn't rest until he had an army of friends that can topple down an empire! "But you know, I already forgiven you."

"W-What?"

"Fear is natural against the face of the unknown. My appearance is something that has never been seen in Equestria, I assume, and that shook the peaceful stability of this land. I've been lucky to have met with two opened minded individuals, but it'll be a long path to true acceptance."

"Why – Why must you say things like that? You're so...positive!"

Icetra merely shrugged, continuing his smiling and peaceful visage. "As I recall, you are the one that enjoys some positivity."

"I – I do. But you practically ooze it. So much has happened to you and yet you continue to still think like this. Many of our patients that used to have amnesia fell into a pit of despair, not act like it's all sunshine and rainbows! But you're – you're different."

"Does that not satisfy you?"

"Of course not! But as a nurse, I must ask again. How can you manage while your mind is a complete mess?"

Icetra couldn't help but release a deep sigh, sliding his left opened hand upon his face, planting it right on his cheek. "Trust me, it is hard. But what can you do? If I fall into depression because of this, I'll never get better. It's best to have a positive outlook on life despite the danger presented. If you lose an arm, you keep fighting. If you lose all of them, you use your legs. Even if you're legs are gone there's always your teeth. Basically, keep trekkin' on and live life to its fullest, even if life is keeping you from enjoying it."

Ember was quiet for a moment. Then it extended to something much more longer. She kept her eyes closed, rubbing one of her temples as she fought her own thoughts. Icetra was about to say something until she raised her head to face him right and clear. A beaming smile was presented on her face, shooting it straight to Icetra's vision.

"You're really – really something, you know that?"

Icetra didn't say anything at first, but he did turn his wheelchair around so that he could face the door's entrance. Beginning to wheel himself he looked back toward the confused mare and flashed the biggest, more profusely made smile he could muster. "Let's go to the gardens, Ember. I'm looking forward to it."

All she did was nod, shifting her form as she left the table and grabbed the handles of the wheelchair. In moments she was pushing the chair, the duo leaving the eatery. But not before throwing away the trash that they almost left behind.

Author's Note

Sometimes you just gotta have a positive outlook in life. Since surviving from depression and currently battling schizophrenia, I have always believed what Icetra has said. My character is a representation of my own thoughts, so it is natural for mm to say that. Unfortunately I know having a sunny smile can be hard in times of turmoil and destruction. What do you think of Icetra's words? Send me your criticisms and/or opinions! :D