Love's Lost Decade

Chapters

Bk1/Ch2 My Brother
Bk1/Ch3 Victim to the Sun
Bk2/Ch1 Temple of the Reformed
Bk2/Ch2 What Lies Within
Bk2/Ch3 Inner Turmoil
Bk2/Ch4 Mara
Bk3/Ch1 Angel of the Mountain
Bk3/Ch2 My New Friends
Bk3/Ch3 Thin Ice
Bk3/Ch5 The Angel of Death
Bk4/Ch1 Eden's Kiss
Bk4/Ch2 The McHolt Clan Secret
Bk4/Ch3 The Approaching Calamity
Bk4/Ch4 The Dark Alicorn
Bk5/Ch1 A Familiar Scenario
Bk5/Ch2 The Broken Princess
Bk6/Ch1 The Mage of Zebrica
Bk6/Ch2 Chosen
Bk6/Ch3 The Fate of Darkness
Bk7/Ch1 Kingdom of the Eternal War
Bk7/Ch2 Long Live the King
Bk7/Ch3 The Curse of Lilith
Bk7/Ch4 The Experimental City
Bk7/Ch5 To Kill a King
Bk7/Ch6 Lilith's Last Day
Bk7/Ch7 The Last Knight of Lilith
Bk8/Ch1 Daring Do and the Voyage of Betrayal
Bk8/Ch2 The Reaper
Bk8/Ch3 The Crimson Ghost Hunter.
Bk8/Ch4 The Princess and The Exploror
BK8/Ch5 The Future Mage of Zebrica
Bk9/Ch1 The Tribe, The Chief, and His Wife
Bk9/Ch2 Chief Rafi's Legacy
Bk9/Ch4 Assembly of the Chiefs
Bk9/Ch5 Blood Rose
Bk10/Ch1 Lessons to Become the Mage
Bk10/Ch2 The City of Sand
Bk10/Ch3 The Fall of Duet
Bk11/Ch1 The Spark of War
Bk11/Ch2 A Fate Fulfilled and a Broken Vow
Bk11/Ch3 Burden of the Oracle, the Chief, and the Changeling
Bk12/Ch1 The Final Trial
Bk12/Ch2 Home of the Banished And Crime of the Titan
Bk12/Ch3 Balanced
Bk13/Ch1 The Storm Kingdom
Bk13/Ch2 The Imprisoned Mage
Bk13/Ch3 The Pieces in Place
Bk13/Ch4 The Storm Kingdom Escape
Bk13/Ch5 An Unwelcomed “Welcome Home”
Bk14/Ch1 A Prince's Crime
Bk14/Ch2 I Am Home...
Bk15/Ch2 The Final Change Pt2
Bk1/Ch1 Kingdom of the Charred Sand
Bk3/Ch4 Friend or Foe
Bk4/Ch5 After Eden's Kiss
Bk5/Ch3 Redeeming Past Sins
Bk9/Ch3 Tribal Law and the Second Debt
Bk15/Ch1 The Final Change Pt1

Bk1/Ch2 My Brother

Book 1 / Chapter 2
My Brother

Year 0 Month 0 Day 04

Zeil sat in his Zebra form as he meditated in the center of what was now his makeshift cell. As he sat there he mumbled in annoyance, “Where are you?... why aren’t you here to help me?...”
Too annoyed to focus, Zeil opened his eyes as he stood up and started pacing around the hole he was in, “Darn it Rafi… what are you doing?... it’s been two days and you haven’t even made an attempt to help me. I only need advice… or guidance or something.”
Zeil stopped pacing as he sat down and put his hoof on his head in irritation, “If you’re not going to help me… then I guess… I’m on my own.”
Trying to decide his next action, Zeil sat down as he started clearing his mind to meditate more, however as he started feeling the airflow around his surroundings, he immediately sensed a presence entering the tunnel to his pit as he stopped meditating, looked up, and waited for it to approach. Waiting for his guest, Zeil spoke loud enough so it could be heard, “Hey brother, how’s the rehabilitation going… not well I’m guessing.”
Sonic sighed as he approached the edge of the pit and replied, “That depends… do you still like ponies?”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “More or less… I told you it isn’t the ponies I want to get back to.”
Sonic replied with an annoyed tone, “Then no… the rehabilitations isn’t going well.”

Zeil smiled with sarcasm, “Pity, I was so looking forward to you fixing my cursed and confused mind.”
Sonic sighed, “Is this some kind of joke to you?”
Zeil carelessly paced around his pit, “I make it what I can since I’m the one stuck in the hole.”
Sonic replied, “If you don’t get over this obsession with Equestria soon, the princess is going to kill you.”
Zeil replied with an annoyed tone, “Yea, and reiterating that doesn’t make it any less true.”
Sonic gave Zeil a strange stare, “Reiterating?... seriously?”
Zeil stopped pacing, “It means repeating.”
“I know what it means… I just don’t know what’s gotten into you. Not enough you’re betraying the hive with this love crap, but now you’re using words you never use.”
Zeil sighed in irritation as he turned away from his brother and replied, “You’re one to talk… I told you the truth because of all the changelings here, you’re the one I trust. And look where it’s landed me.”

Sonic replied in anger, “This is all your fault. Ever since the Canterlot incident you haven’t been yourself. All you do is sit sleeping in this pit. The Zeil I know would at least try to escape.”
Zeil shook his head, “The Zeil you know would have worn himself ragged trying before realizing that the walls are too steep to climb. He would have wasted all of his energy trying to escape that even if he had succeeded, he would have been too weak to fight his way to the surface, especially since he wouldn’t have taken the time to seek out the route like I’ve been doing.”
Sonic was confused, “Seek out the route? What are you talking about?”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “That sleep sitting you’ve seen me doing… that isn’t sleeping. It’s called meditation. With it, I can see beyond my line of sight, I can hear beyond my ear shot, I can even project my thoughts beyond my own comprehension. It’s because of that, I felt the air as it enters the hive and mapped out every inch of this place.”
Not buying it, Sonic replied, “So what?... it’s some kind of super power or something.”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “Sure… to save time, let’s just call it that… a super power.”

Sonic sighed with hopelessness, “What a joke, looks like your condition is worse than we tho-“
Before he could finish Zeil spoke up, “Out the corridor behind you is the main hive. Travel up the spiral pathway three flights, and we will find the entrance to the princess’s chamber. Up two more is the nursery, then one past that will lead to the exit and a side chamber which I can only assume is a supply cavern… am I right?”
Sonic gave him a curious look as he replied, “Big deal, you could have easily memorized that when you were brought he-“
Zeil continued, “Currently, there are two thousand, five hundred, twenty six changeling in this hive, counting myself and the twelve that left for this evening’s search team… from which, four have returned… so far.”

Sonic was now surprised, he himself didn’t know exactly how many changeling were in this hive but if he were to make a guess, it would have been almost the same area as Zeil’s words. So even though he wasn’t fully convinced, he still wanted to ask, “Your… medita-whatever word you said… did it tell you that?”
Zeil Shook his head, “No… it showed me that.”
Sonic replied with confusion, “How?… you never left this pit… how did it show you anything?”
Zeil continued, “There is more to this world then what the queen tells us. There are mysteries in everything around us. Magic… And when we understand it, we can unlock things about us that we never knew possible.”
Sonic replied, “And this zebra you know… she taught you this?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes and I’d prefer you call her Zecora since that is her name.”
Still skeptic, Sonic thought to himself for a few second before replying, “Cute trick brother… but it will take a lot more than that to fool me.”
Zeil nodded, “Of course it will, you know that out of the two of us you were always the brains while I was the brawn. How else could you have kept up with me all these years? One of us had to do the heavy lifting.”

Turning away as if the conversation was over, Zeil trotted back to the center of the pit as Sonic replied with a sarcastic tone, “Oh really? Are you sure it wasn’t me holding you up all these years?”
Zeil turned back and shook his head, “No... I’m pretty sure I was dragging you with me as I did all the lifting.”
Sonic smiled jokingly, “Really? Don’t make me challenge you to another spar, I may have lost last time but I’ve gotten better since the attack on Canterlot.”
Zeil Thought to himself as he replied, “Are you sure… you look a little pudgy since our last fight.”
Sonic replied, “That ain’t fat brother, its muscle.”
Zeil smiled sarcastically, “Are you sure? Muscle usually doesn’t jiggle when you trot.”
Sonic gave him a skeptic glance, “Says the changeling who lasted only twelve seconds against Pharynx in a fight. At least I was able to last a full thirty second before he knocked me unconscious.”

Zeil smiled as he replied with sarcasm, “Good… then you should challenge him again, let’s see if you can work off that flab a little.”
Sonic shook his head, “Oh no… I’m not falling for that again. List time I took him on, I couldn’t fly strait for a month.”
Zeil laughed, “I warned you about him, he like to change into large creatures when he fights. That’s what you would expect from someone who’s gun-hoe all the time.”
As Sonic laughed and continued with a snappy comeback, the two brothers continued with their sibling banter. They continued their talks as if Zeil wasn’t trapped in a pit, and the Canterlot incident never took place. They talked like they used to, about everything from pranks they used to pull, to times they one upped another changeling, even times they were tricked by others.

For hours, the conversations continued, until finally their topics went stale while the two laughed about a previous subject. As Sonic’s laughter faded he remembered his task and sighed, “Are you sure about this?”
Thinking they were on the previous subject Zeil replied, “What? About throwing that rotten apple at Apex? What you think we should have hit Thorax instead? Pharynx would have beaten us to a pulp if we did that.”
Sonic smiled as he shook his head, “I’m not talking about that.” his expression became serious, “I’m talking about what you’re doing here… now…”
Zeil smiled and hesitated for a few seconds before replying, “Didn’t you hear the princess?... I’m not in the right state of mind. I’m supposedly under some pony curse. That’s why my wing looks like this.”

Sonic shook his head, “I call bull… Zeil we’re brothers, and I for one know exactly who you are. You’re the strongest, and bravest of us both, and no matter how much your ideals change, I can always tell if you’re in the right state of mind, or if it’s something else.”
Zeil gave him a curious look, “And?...”
Sonic sighed, “Your mind isn’t warped. It seems confused, but I for one know that there is nothing wrong with you. Everything you say, or been saying is true… at least in your own opinion.”
Zeil smiled, “Good… but that doesn’t fix my problem now does it?”
Sonic nodded, “yea… in fact it only makes it worse… so… what’s your plan?”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Well, I can only wait till the opportunity to escape comes my way.”
Sonic replied, “Kay… and if it doesn’t?”
Zeil spoke with a disappointed tone, “The princess will execute me.”

Sonic didn’t like that answer, “There has to be something we can do… maybe I can talk to her. I might be able to convince her to change her mind about killing you… maybe I can talk her into banishing you instead.”
Zeil shook his head, “It wouldn’t work.”
“Sure it would, Princess Mira has always been more merciful then the queen. Maybe we can appeal to her be-”
“We can’t…”
“But if we try ma-”
Zeil interrupted once more, “I told you we can’t! Princess Mira may be more merciful then her sister, but she is still a queen who was spoken down to by an underling. So what would you do if you were in her situation? She won’t simply let me go… if anything she is devising a reason to execute me no matter what happens. Remember we are talking about a mare who overreacted and banished herself from the swarm simply because she couldn’t stop the Marble Oasis from killing each other. How do you think she will react when word of an alpha drone disrespecting her goes around the swarm? She would see me as a threat to her throne and probably worry about an uprising. If anything, killing me under suspicion of mental instability will be the only way to redeem her control over the swarm.”

Hearing what seemed to be a logical statement, only worsened Sonic’s worry as he tried to reply, “Then… why not fake your rehabilitation? Maybe if you admit you had a problem and run away when no changeling is looking you could escape.”
Zeil shook his head, “It would only insult her more. Then she would send changelings to kill me out of spite. It will take easily two years to get back to Equestria by hoof. I don’t need to spend that time looking over my shoulder as I try to make my way back to Zecora. Besides, it’s too much of a coward’s tactic. If I’m going to escape, it will be on my own terms.”
Sonic sighed, “Yea, yea, you said that before… So… what are you going to do?”
Zeil thought to himself as he sat back down in his usual meditation stance as he replied, “I can only wait and hope. Eventually I'll figure out a way out of here… but till then… that’s all I can do.”
Trusting his brother, Sonic nodded as he turned to leave, “Then… I’ll let you get to it… just… be careful alright? I'd rather you get out alive then not at all.”
Zeil nodded, “yea… me too.”
Zeil closed his eyes and began meditating as Sonic turned and left the room.

Minutes later just passed dawn, Princess Mira was seeing to the hive’s operation as Sonic flew into the chamber as she saw him and spoke, “Captain… what is the progress of Sir Zeil?”
Sonic sighed, “Honestly your majesty… it’s not going badly… but it hasn’t gotten any better either. I'd say… fifty-fifty.”
Princess Mira nodded, “I see… No matter, he will remain here till I decide he is beyond help. Till then I can only ask that you be patient with him. Sir Zeil may not be in the right state of mind, but he is still an alpha drone, and I still need him to see to the hive’s future.”
Sonic nodded as he replied, “Your majesty… may I… speak freely?”
Concerned with his next words, Princess Mira nodded her head, “If you must…”
Sonic spoke cautiously, “If he is beyond saving… are… you really going to kill him?”
Princess Mira replied, “Please captain, I would prefer you use the word dispose. It at least sounds less vulgar… but yes… if we cannot save him, then we must dispose of him. For the good of the swarm.”
Sonic asked, “Why… why can’t we just… exile him instead. Should we really ki… dispose of him if he isn’t cured? Why can’t we just let him go?”

Princess Mira sighed as she replied, “Because he will remain a threat. As an alpha, he is still revered as a higher authority amongst changelings. If he were to spread his dangerous thoughts over those who are influential to his words, it could condemn them to a horrible or traitorous whim. For example, say we release him and he stumbles onto a group of survivors in the desert. He could confuse them and lead them to fall victim to the sun, or trick them into an attack on this very hive.”
Sonic tried another option, “What if we escort him passed the desert. What if he truly wants to return to Equestria of his own free will?”
Princess Mira nodded, “Then too will he remain a threat. If he returns to Equestria with his less then stable values, he may corrupt the changeling kingdom to his claims. As stated before, he is still an alpha drone, and his influence as a better can be dangerous to the rest of a hive. In order to ensure the safety of both this, and my sister’s hive. We must remove him before he can bring further harm.”
Sonic tried to reply, “I understand bu-”
Princess Mira gave him a skeptic look, “I sense doubt in you captain… I pray your faith in me isn’t misplaced?”

Seeing the skeptic look given to him by his princess, Sonic quickly replied, “Of course not your majesty…I-I am only concerned for… well… uh-”
Princess Mira approached Sonic as she replied while hiding her anger, “You see… he is already beginning to sow seeds of doubt within you. If his influence can corrupt one as loyal as my captain, then consider what it can do to a weaker mind. With his words, he can bring in many followers and use them to do his bidding. Even if his bidding is to dethrone his queen.”
Sonic felt concerned, though the princess seemed to be speaking logically, he could tell that she was really trying to hide her worry that what she said could actually happen… that Zeil could lead an uprising to take her throne away from her. But in the attempt to avoid suspicion, Sonic nodded as he replied, “I… I understand now your majesty… forgive me for ever doubting you.”
Princess Mira smiled as she patted his back, “There is no need for apologies Captain… as long as you remain loyal to me… there will never be a need for apologies. Just remember that what you do is for the good of the swarm.”
Princess Mira turned and trotted away as Sonic nodded and replied while hiding his worries, “Yes… I understand. For the good of the swarm.”

As Sonic turned to leave another changeling rushed to Princess Mira as he stopped her, “Your majesty!”
Although he knew his conversation was over, Sonic still paused and listened as the princess replied, “Yes what is it?”
The changeling continued, “Just before dawn, we discovered a survivor in the desert. He spoke of a cave that some banished changelings were hiding in about fifteen miles from here. He says there are about twenty of us there all taking shelter from the sun.”
Princess Mira smiled as she replied, “Twenty… that’s excellent news, we shale send a team to rescue them at dusk.”
The changeling continued, “That’s not the best part your majesty. Turns out the one leading them is Apex.”
Princess Mira was surprised, “Sir Apex? He is here as well?”
The changeling nodded, “Yes, he got banished few weeks back and is gathering survivors to that shelter.”

Sonic became nervous as Princess Mira smiled with joy, “Another alpha, this is a momentous occasion… Gather a squad together and retrieve the sun cloaks, we will escort him to the hive at once.”
The changeling replied with a nervous tone, “Um your majesty, I’m afraid the cloaks won’t protect us during the day.”
The princess was concerned, “Oh? Am I mistaken? Those cloaks were made specifically to protect us from the sun’s rays?”
The changeling replied, “They do, but I’m afraid they have a temporary use. They do block the sunlight but after a few minutes in the sun they will start heating up and can be fatal to the wearer. I’m afraid the journey to the cave is just too fare for us to make even with those cloaks. That and, we only have three cloaks to use. I’m afraid we can only wait until dusk before retrieving him.”
Princess Mira sighed with disappointment, “Very well, assemble a team and make sure they are ready to depart at dusk. I will be joining you when you retrieve Sir Apex.”
The changeling bowed, “Yes your majesty, I will have a team ready an hour prior to dusk.”

Worried, Sonic asked, “Your majesty? If Apex is with those other changelings, then… what will happen to Zeil?”
Princess Mira sighed in a disappointed way as she looked back onto her working hive and replied, “If Sir Apex is with them… then I’m afraid Sir Zeil must be disposed of. But not now, to ensure that this information is just, we must wait until Sir Apex has been properly escorted back to the hive. Then and only then will we precede.”
Sonic could only hide his worry as he replied “Understood your majesty… what should we do with him in the meantime?”
Princess Mira replied, “Leave him be… With only one wing, Sir Zeil will not be going anywhere.”
Sonic nodded, “As you wish your majesty.”
With that Sonic left Princess Mira as he casually made his way back to where Zeil was being kept. As he left, Princess Mira watched him closely as she spotted something that worried her. On the tip of Sonic’s wings were slight spotting that resembled the glitter-like spots on Zeil’s only wing. Seeing this, Princess Mira looked at a working changeling as she commanded, “You there… Come here.”
The changeling approached his princess as he bowed, “Yes your majesty?”
She replied, “You were amongst the changelings banished after the attack on Canterlot. I have a request to make regarding Sir Zeil and his brother Sonic… but first… tell me about their… relationship.”

A few minutes later, Sonic arrived in the chamber that Zeil was in as he saw Zeil siting in his meditative position, only this time, Zeil’s head was slightly tilted indicating that the zebra disguised changeling wasn’t meditating, he was asleep. Seeing this made Sonic roll his eyes as he mumbled, “Some super power…” he called, “Zeil, wake up!”
Snapping out of it, Zeil shook his head as he mumbled, “Wh-what?...”
As soon as he realized he was sleeping, Zeil looked up at his brothers expression as he replied to the hopeless stare, “Um… hey… even I have to sleep from time to time.”
Sonic replied, “True… but now’s not the time… while you were in la la land, the situation just went from bad to catastrophic.”
Sonic had his attention as Zeil replied, “Really? How?”
Sonic replied, “The search party found Apex.”
“Apex?”

Sonic nodded as he sat down and replied, “Yea… as in Apex, the alpha drone… as in, you’ve been replaced, and are now expendable. Or in this case.”
Zeil rubbed his head as he replied, “Disposable.”
Sonic nodded, “Exactly, so your time left just went to less than twenty-four hours. Its morning now, but Princess Mira already decided that at dusk they are going to get him from a nearby cave and bring him back here. Prior to killing you.”
Zeil thought to himself as he mumbled, “Then… I got to get out before that happens.” He looked up to Sonic and asked, “So… what’s the plan?”
Sonic was confused, “Plan?”
“Well yea… what, you came all the way down here and woke me up just to tell me that the princess was going to kill me?”
Sonic shrugged his shoulders, “Well… yea, kinda.”

Zeil gave him a hopeless look, “Supersonic… you don’t think that for one second I would even consider my brother, the one changeling I know better than even myself to just sit by and lead me to my death do you? You may have had me thrown in this hole, but that was for the good of the swarm, NOT to have me killed. I know you wouldn’t have done that if you knew it would end this way.”
Sonic nodded as he sighed, “I just… I just want to know if this is truly what you want. This Zecora… and your love for her… is it truly real?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… it is.”
Curious Sonic asked, “How do you know it’s real?”
Zeil sat down as he thought to himself, “It’s hard to explain… but we’ve tasted it a number of times, and we can feel it when we are close to those who have it… but… to actually experience it… It’s nothing like what we know. For example, whenever I’m with Zecora… I feel happy and confident. Like I could easily take Canterlot if we tried again. But at the same time… it hurt fare worse than when I lost my wing.”

Sonic was confused, “It hurt? Why?”
Zeil replied, “Because… I was keeping something from her that… could make her look at me differently. And disappointing her was something that I never wanted. If she ever looked at me in any other way then she did, I don’t know what I would do. But before I could even tell her, I was casted out. And now… now…” He sighed in disappointment, “I have to get back… I have to tell her the truth. I don’t care if it takes the rest of my life, I have to get to her and tell her who I am. I owe her that much.”
Sonic rubbed his head in irritation as he hesitated for a few seconds, after seeing the sad expression on his brothers face he sighed in irritation as he replied, “Ah… Fine… I'll help you get out of here.”
Zeil replied with curiosity, “What?”
Sonic repeated, “I said I will help you get out of here. But… I will only help you get out. I for one will be staying. You may want to leave, but I have a life here.”

Zeil smiled as he replied, “Deal… so… what’s the plan?”
Sonic replied, “What? Why do I have to come up with the plan?”
Zeil gestured to his surroundings, “Cuz I’m the one in the hole.”
Sonic sighed, “Yea but you’re the brains in all this.”
Zeil rubbed his head in irritation, “Let’s not start this again…” He thought to himself before replying, “Before I was brought to the hive, I remember seeing some changeling in a shiny cloak or something.”
Sonic nodded, “Yea, the Sun Cloaks… what about them?”
Zeil continued, “Sun Cloak?”
Sonic explained, “It’s a reflective cloak that is supposed to allow us to travel during the day.”
“Does it work?”

Sonic shook his head, “Sorta, it lets you trot through the sun for a few minutes but after a while it heats up and acts as a hot box. Basically it’s only good for short term use.”
“How long?”
“Only two minutes or so, it depends on how direct the light is.”
Zeil smiled, “And they are kept in that storage chamber just before the exit aren’t they?”
Sonic nodded, “Yea… but there are only thr- wait…”
Sonic realized something as Zeil nodded, “Yea… that’s my way out. Meet me here a few minutes before dusk. If you can get me one of those cloaks then I'll leave moments before the dusk makes it safe to travel.”
Sonic nodded as he replied, “Sound good. Is there anything else?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes there is… I need you to get me a few things before we leave. I’m sure that storage cavern has things left over from the fall of the Marble Oasis?”
Sonic nodded, “Yea, I think so.”
Zeil smiled, “Good then if you can, I need a few things from that room. Most of it are basic supplied, but some are important ingredients so, listen closely.”

Bk1/Ch3 Victim to the Sun

Book 1: Chapter 3
Victim to the Sun
Year 0 Month 0 Day 06

Sonic entered the tunnel wearing a full saddlebag of items as he approached Zeil’s pit and spoke, “Hey brother? I got what you asked for.”
Zeil in his zebra form answered as he stopped meditating, “good… is it dusk yet? I can feel the air getting thinner but I just wanted to be sure.”
Sonic flew down to his disguised brother as he replied, “we got about thirty minutes before dark, so we need to act soon. Here.”
Sonic took off the saddlebag and gave it to Zeil as he continued, “We will need to get the cloaks on the way out, but I’m sure I got everything else.”
Zeil looked through the bag at all the items as he replied, “Thanks Sonic, I’m happy I can still trust you.”
“I wish I could agree!”

Surprised by the unexpected voice, both Zeil and Sonic looked to the top of the pit as a greenish aura surrounded the top rim of the pit as stone bars shot out of the wall and closed the opening trapping both Zeil and Sonic inside. With the unexpected magic closing them in, Sonic and Zeil could only look through the bars above as they saw Princess Mira and a number of changelings looking down at them as her horn stopped glowing, “It is a shame to have to do this, but after our last conversation I could tell that your loyalty was fleeting. I would ask why… but it’s obvious by the change in your wings that whatever curse corrupted Zeil’s heart has slowly made its way onto you as well.”
Sonic looked at his wings to see that she was right, the specked discoloration that was all over Zeil’s remaining wing had completely engulfed his. However it didn’t convince Zeil as he stepped forward and spoke, “The only thing corrupted here is you! You refuse to see that the hive doesn’t have to live i-”
Princess Mira interrupted with an enraged tone, “Silence… I’ve had it with your cursed words. You are not an alpha drone to this swarm, you are nothing but a traitor! I was a fool to think you could ever be anything more.”
Sonic shook his head, “you’re wrong! Zeil isn’t cursed at all, and neither am I! If anything the curse here is ignorance! It hides you from the truth, from what Zeil has been trying to tell us all from the start!”
Princess Mira asked with little concern, “and what truth is that?”

Zeil replied with pride, “That we aren’t the parasites the world sees us as. We can be better, we can have friends outside the swarm, allies in other kingdoms, we can even fall in love if we are willing to give it a chance.”
The changeling in the room looked at each other with unsure expressions as Princess Mira saw this and spoke with an angry tone, “Very convincing statement Sir Zeil… however you will not weave words to sway anymore of my subjects. Enjoy the remainder of your night, upon its end, you both will die.”
With an angry expression, Princess Mira turned away from the changeling’s cell as she looked to another changeling and spoke, “You are my new captain. I want you to command the rest of the swarm to focus on the nursery’s construction. It is nearly finished and I want it perfect when I return with Sir Apex.”
The changeling nodded, “Understood your majesty, and the Prisoners?”
Princess Mira replied, “Leave them… they aren’t going anywhere.”

After the princess left the chamber Zeil sat down to meditate as Sonic started pacing as he tried to find a way out, “Crap… I should have seen this coming from the way she was talking yesterday.”
Zeil looked at his sibling, “Yesterday?”
“Yea… the way she was talking about you basically screamed that she was worried you would form a rebellion against her. I could see it burrowing into her mind like some kind of parasite. And it looks like it’s finally gotten deep enough.”
Zeil asked, “Why do you say that?”
Sonic replied, “Cuz yesterday she got mad about me using the word execute since it seemed vulgar. But now she just said we would die… like it’s not any better.”
Zeil smiled, “well if I had a bit for every hypocritical thing a royal has said to me, I'd be pretty rich.”
Sonic nodded, “Ditto… so… what now?”

Zeil replied, “Patience… we need to give her time.”
Sonic asked, “Time? For what?”
Zeil replied, “For her to get distance from the hive… I have a plan… but if the princess is here, it won’t work.”
Sonic was curious, “How much time are we talking? We have less than nine hours.”
Zeil replied, “not sure… but I'll say… three.”
“Three hours?”
Zeil nodded, “Yep… so sit back, relax, and be patient.”
Knowing it couldn’t be helped, Sonic sat down and started examining the discoloration on his wings closer as Zeil sat and meditated.

About three hours later, Sonic had barely calmed down as he waited for Zeil to act. after a few more minutes of meditating Zeil stood up and got his saddlebag as he mumbled in irritation, “Well, I guess it’s time to get started.”
Sonic looked at Zeil, “Okay… so what’s the plan?”
Zeil didn’t answer, instead he just looked through the saddlebag as he mumbled, “I was hoping I could use this later for food… but looks like now is as good a time as any.”
Sonic looked at Zeil actions as he asked, “What are you going to do?”
Zeil replied as he pulled out a small bowl and started adding ingredients, “I’m gonna get us out.”
Sonic was confused, “What? There isn’t anything in that bag that can get us out of here… is there?”
Zeil replied as he held up a seed, “This is an apple seed right?”
Sonic nodded, “yea, that’s what you asked for, but that wo-”

Without letting him finish, Zeil immediately went back to his work as he laid the seed down and started mixing different ingredients into the bowl. As he mixed Zeil looked over at one of the walls as he pointed at a strange indention in the wall that looked like a yellow line as he spoke, “Hey can you chip a small piece from that line?”
Although he was still confuse, Sonic went to the wall and scraped off a small piece of the yellow stone into his hoof as he replied, “Sure, but what is it?”
Sonic brought it back to Zeil as he replied, “Its sulfur… I need it for this mix.”
Clueless but trusting, Sonic gave the sulfur to Zeil as he dropped it into the mix then added a little water. As he mixed the ingredients. Zeil placed the apple seed against the corner of the pit as Sonic asked, “So… now what?”
Zeil smiled as he readied the mix and replied, “Remember those mysteries I mentioned that Zecora taught me about?”
Sonic nodded, “yea… the super power right?”
Zeil gave a sinister smiled, “Well check out this super power.”

With Sonic watching, Zeil pored the murky mix over the apple seed as he backed away and spoke “You may… want to brace yourself.”
Sonic and Zeil backed up further as Sonic asked, “For what?”
All of a sudden the small seed started glowing slightly as it immediately started growing. Slowly the seed grew roots that dug into the ground, then sprouted a leaf, before turning slowly into a sapling, then into a full grown apple tree. However it didn’t stop there, soon the tree started getting taller, and thicker as more branches sprouted out of it and started digging into the walls of the pit. With their space decreasing, Sonic and Zeil backed up to the wall on the opposite side as Sonic spoke, “What good is this supposed to be?”
Zeil looked to the top of the cell as he replied, “Wait for it…”
As the apple tree grew, it wasn’t long until the top of the tree pressed against the stone bars above as the rapidly growing branches started to crack the bars until the bars broke apart and collapsed into the cell.

As soon as the bars broke, Zeil called out, “NOW!”
Moving quickly, Zeil climbed up the rapidly growing tree as Sonic followed closely as the two escaped from their cell and fled the room as the tree continued growing passed the roof of the chamber. Luckily with most of the changeling working on the hive’s nursery, only a few noticed the escaping changelings as they dove at the two in an attempt to stop them. Seeing the threats, Zeil looked at Sonic and spoke, “we don’t have time to deal with them… we have at least a minute tops. Just push through!”
As the first few changeling approached, Sonic had no problem grabbing the first and slamming him against the ground as Zeil did the same with the one who attacked him. As a second one attacked Zeil changed from his zebra form into a bear as he grabbed the attacker and pinned him against the wall of the hive. However before Zeil could use his form’s sharp claws, Sonic called, “Zeil! No killing! You can leave the hive behind if you want, but I won’t allow you to completely betray us!”
Seeing his brother’s point Zeil nodded as he used his massive bear paws to knock the pined changeling unconscious.

Dropping his attacker, Zeil turned back into a zebra as he and Sonic continued their rush to the supply cavern. However as they stared getting close to the supply cavern the ground beneath them started to crack as Sonic asked, “What’s that?”
Zeil replied, “That’s the reason to move fast!”
As they continued the cracks started to widen as small branches started growing through them as Sonic spoke, “Is that the apple tree?”
Zeil replied as they approached the entrance to the supply cavern, “Yep, and we better hurry if we want to beat it to the surface.”
After entering the cavern Zeil looked to a wall where the cloaks were hanging as he grabbed one, “is this it?”
All of a sudden the wall the cloaks were hanging on started cracking and crumbling as Sonic grabbed another as he replied, “Yea, let’s go!”

Reacting to the chaos that was taking place, Zeil and Sonic wasted no time as they charged passed the collapsing floor and made their way to the surface as they exited the hive mere moments before the branching limbs of the tree started to grow thick leaves and apples that closed off the exit behind them. Seeing the disaster they just avoided, Sonic turned to the closed hive as he asked, “The hive… Can they get out?”
Zeil nodded, “the spell is temporary, I used a more potent mix then needed for our situation, but the whole tree should die within an hour or so.”
Sonic nodded, “Ok, well at least I won’t feel too bad about it then. As long as the princess will be able to return when she gets back. So… what now?”
Zeil put on the cloak as he replied, “Well… you’re welcome to come with me if you want. I can always use the co- hey… this cloaks is a little small.”

Sonic nodded his head as he put his cloak on, “Well yea, they were made for changelings. Your zebra form is a little too big for them.”
Zeil looked at his zebra hoof as he replied, “Oh… that makes sense.”
Zeil then turned into his changeling form as Sonic replied to the earlier invitation, “As for going with you… I guess I can do that. It’s not like the princess will accept me back after that.”
Sonic then gestured to the closed off hive as Zeil replied, “I dono… without anypony to siphon love from out here. I’m sure they would appreciate the apples.”
Sonic smiled at the joke, “So… what now?”
Zeil looked at the night sky as he replied, “Now… we head west. If we travel towards the setting sun we will have a little more daylight than usual. Or in this case, moonlight.”
Sonic gave Zeil a dull look, “Yea… by like three seconds. You realize it takes us over a year to fly to Equestria from here… so how do you intend to trot all the way to Equestria?”
Zeil replied as he started trotting, “Well… like this.”

With little worry, Zeil started trotting on their path while Sonic give his brother a dull look as he replied, “Seriously? You’re going to trot all the way there?”
Zeil nodded, “I didn’t risk life and limb to escape from the hive only to quit at the gate. Besides, you’re coming too, so I can tell you all about Zecora on the way.”
Sonic sighed as he started to follow, “Alright… just don’t get all lovey-dovey with her description. Otherwise I’m probably going to hurt you.”
Zeil smiled as the two trotted along, “Don’t worry I wouldn’t dream of doing that. I wouldn’t want you to fall for her on the way. Oh how would I ever compete with the great Supersonic?”
Hearing his brother’s sarcasm made him smile, “You couldn’t… that’s the point.”
With that, the two started bickering amongst each other as they set out on their journey.

A few hours later as Princess Mira and her squad of changelings were flying back with their recovered survivors, Princess Mira spoke to the large changeling next to her, “It is quite fortunate that we were able to find you. With Sir Zeil’s treachery, I was worried for the swarm. Now with a compliant alpha drone, I feel the future of our hive will be a great one.”
The slightly shorter changeling with a sword blushed as he replied, “Of course it is your majesty. And to hear of that pathetic excuse for a drone casting you aside like that… it sickens me to even consider him as one of us.”
Princess Mira smiled, “Yes I’m sure. By the way… where did you come across that sword? It looks like it once belonged to the Equestrian Royal Guard.”
Apex drew the sword and looked at the blade, “You like it? I found it in the desert. Strange to see this here but who knows, stranger things have been seen in this type of environment.”
Princess Mira smiled, “Yes, I would agr-“
“PRINCESS!!!”

All of a sudden, the princess and her small swarm of changelings paused as a lone changeling approached. Hovering nearby the winded changeling spoke, “Your majesty! The hive is in a state of panic!”
Princess Mira was concerned, “What? What happened?”
He continued, “The hive was attacked!”
Apex was confused, “What? By whom?”
The changeling replied, “That’s the confusing part, it seemed to be hit by… a gigantic tree.”
Princess Mira was now confused, “Explain…”
The changeling explained as best as he could, “Well… I don’t know how… but the tree just sprouted from the ground in the bottom chamber. But in a matter of minutes it grew through the ground and destroyed a large number of chambers. Luckily most of us were in the nursery when it happened so it missed us.”

Princess Mira’s expression became angry, “The bottom chamber… tell me… what has become of Sir Zeil and his brother?...”
The changeling replied, “There were no bodied found… so we assume they escaped. We saw hoof prints in the sand heading west, but we’ve yet to determine whether it’s them or not.”
Princess Mira’s eye twitched with anger as she replied, “It’s them… I know it is. No doubt Sir Zeil was the cause of this destruction as well.”
The changeling replied, “If so… then we assume they took a few of the sun cloaks with them. There are two unaccounted for.
Princess Mira replied with an annoyed tone, “What of the damage to the hive… is it habitable?”
The changeling replied, “It is, there are some tunnels that survived so we still have shelter for sunrise, and it can be repaired, but it will take time.”
Princess Mira’s rage easily showed as she mumbled, “Sir Zeil… he spoke down to me, corrupted my captain, and now laid waste to my hive… He will pay for this with his life.”

Princess Mira looked at Apex, “Sir Apex… I trust you can see to the hive’s safety for the time being.”
Apex bowed as he replied, “With honor your majesty… but what about you?”
Princess Mira used her magic to draw his sword as she took it and replied, “I'll see to the traitors personally. It’s time I end this game now, while I still hold my throne.”
Another changeling objected, “No your majesty, Let us see to them. Those two pony loving wimps will get what’s coming to them.”
Princess Mira shook her head, “No… Dawn is within the hour and I wish to deal with them myself… alone. I will teach them to make a fool of me.”

Apex asked with worry, “But what if you don’t make it back in time?”
Princess Mira replied, “If they truly did steal the sun cloaks, then I intend to reclaim them. Besides, Sir Zeil has always been cleaver enough to seek shelter when needed. So if I find them then they will have a place for me to take refuge until dusk. Till then, you will return to the hive and see to its protection.”
Another changeling started to object but he was stopped when Princess Mira’s anger took control as she pointed the sword at him and yelled, “This is an order from your queen!!! The traitors will die by my hoof and mine alone! Any who object will also be punished!”
Seeing the angry and determined expression on her face caused the changeling to back away as Apex replied, “Yes your majesty… We will seek you out come dusk, on the morrow.”
With that the swarm and Princess Mira broke off as the anger consumed queen flew towards the guessed location of the two traitors.

Not long after, Zeil and Sonic were trotting through the desert with haste as Zeil spoke, “See anything?”
Sonic replied, “One sec, I'll see if I can spot something from the top of that dune.”
In an effort to find shelter Sonic flew to the top of a high nearby dune as he looked down and spoke, “Over there! I see a cave!”
Sonic rushed down to the shelter as Zeil climbed to the top of the Dune to see what Sonic was talking about. By the time the one winged changeling reached the top of the dune, Sonic had already reached the cave and was setting down the saddlebag as Zeil saw the shelter and smiled, “Good… just in time for da-”
Zeil immediately silenced himself as he sensed an impending danger approaching. All of a sudden, Princess Mira dropped down from the sky as she brought down her blade in strait down in an attempt to stab him in his back. Sensing the danger, Zeil quickly dodged the incoming queen as her sword dug deep into the ground missing him slightly. Unfortunately he didn’t expect Princess Mira to be armed as she wasted no extra effort to pull the blade from the ground and swing it towards him as the blade glanced off his left side cutting only deep enough to remove his cloak… and his only wing.

As soon as he noticed the attack, Zeil jumped back to get some distance form his attacker, however it was after his cloak and wing were tossed off his back that he realized his injury as the intense pain of his severed wing surged through his body as he dropped to a knee and grabbed his wound screaming in pain. Annoyed that she had missed anything vital, Princess Mira spoke, “You are most fortunate that I am not as skilled with a sword as you… but make no mistake you will pay for your treason.”
As Zeil griped his wound he tried to speak through his pain, “You’re the one… who betrayed her kind… you and your sister. If you continue like this… both of you will drive us to extinction!”

Princess Mira glared at her ex-subject for a few seconds as she replied, “To think, that one as privileged as you would ever say such words. Who do you think you are?”
“He’s my brother!!!”
Without warning Sonic darted out of the cave with his cloak still on as he flew towards Princess Mira at a hastened pace. As he approached, Princess Mira tried to swing the sword at him but the unharmed changing was too fast as he tackled her at high speed causing her to release the sword as both Sonic and Princess Mira were thrown from the top of the dune and rolled down into the slack between the dunes. With the unsuccessful attack’s momentum tossing the blade, the equestrian sword managed to fly down the dune as it landed within the cave’s entrance.

With Princess Mira and Sonic struggling on the ground, Zeil looked to where the sword landed and was about to make his way towards it, but as he moved towards the weapon, he started to feel a powerful gust of wind approach from the east. Knowing what this was, Zeil looked to the winds origin as he started to see that the twilight of dawn was now turning into dawn itself. In the trough between the sand dunes, Princess Mira and Sonic continued struggling as Princess Mira tossed him away as he hit the side of the opposite dune. As Sonic picked himself up, Princess Mira spoke, “Sonic… How could you! How could you let yourself fall so far?”
Sonic replied, “Falling is letting your brother die when all along he’s right… If we don’t change our ways the world will purge us from it like a pelage.”
Princess Mira sighed with disappointment, “So… you are also beyond saving…. Fine… then I should end you both!”

Before anything else could be done Zeil called out, “SONIC! SUNRISE!!!”
Surprised, Sonic looked to the east only this proved to be a mistake as the sunlight crested the closest dune as the light shined over leaving the beam to hit both his eyes directly causing him scream as the combined heat and light did instantaneous damage as he quickly covered his eyes and fell onto his back. With the cloak now under his body, it proved useless as Sonic laid on his back as the light ran down his body burning him while he covered his severely burned eyes in pain. As Sonic laid in the sun, Princess Mira tried to think quickly as she turned herself into a small dog while using her magic to pick up Zeil’s discarded cloak and wrapping it around herself to protect her from the rapidly approaching sun. As the sun consumed everything near the two, Sonic continued to lay on his back screaming as the sun burned him causing him to go into shock and preventing himself from understanding how to stop the pain or get to safety. With Sonic screaming in pain, Zeil quickly rushed out towards his brother as he ignored both his wound and the sunlight as it fell onto him and started burning his back with the intense fire-like heat.

Quickly thinking, Zeil approached Sonic and used his momentum to grab his brother and roll them both over so that the cloak on Sonic’s back covered them both. As his pain started feeling less intense, Sonic continued covering his eyes as he tried to speak through his shock, “Z-Zeil… br-brother?... I-is that y-you? I… I can’t see… my eyes… I can’t see.”
Zeil tried to be gentle with his severely burned brother as he carefully maneuvered him onto his back while leaving the cloak to cast a shadow onto them, “It’s alright Sonic, I'll be your eyes, just… just hold on.”
After making it so the cloaked covered them both and he could carry his brother, Zeil carried Sonic towards the cave as they passed Princess Mira who was completely wrapped in the other cloak like a cocoon. As soon as they returned to the cave Zeil laid Sonic on the cool ground as Sonic cringed with pain as he uncovered his now blood red eyes and tried to speak, “P-Princess…”
Zeil shook his head, “No… it’s me brother… it’s Zeil.”
Sonic shook his head, “No… Princess… Mira… save her.”
“What?”
Sonic waved his hoof in front of him until he was able to grab Zeil behind his neck as he spoke, “Save the princess… s-save… the swarm.”

Although he had mixed feelings about it, Zeil knew what he was being told to do, so he carefully took Sonic’s cloak off of him and looked into the now sunny morning as he could barely make out the princess’s red hot metallic cloak as it sat over a hundred feet away from the cave’s entrance. Seeing what he had to do, Zeil put the hood of the cloak up as he rushed out into the intense sun as the first step into the intensifying heat almost drained him of all his remaining energy. Trying to move quickly Zeil made his way to Princess Mira’s cloak cocoon as he burned himself trying to pick it up with her inside and turned back to the cave. Feeling that she was being moved Princess Mira spoke in her dog form, “What? What is the meaning of this! Put me down this instant!”
Trying to bear both the heat of the sun, the burns it already gave him, and his missing wing, Zeil panted as he replied, “Shut… up…”
As he trotted back, Zeil passed something that spontaneously ignited in the intense sun. As he got closer to the flame, Zeil could see clearly that what caught fire in the heat, was his last wing. Seeing the burning appendage made him sigh as he mumbled, “Yep… that’s my luck alright.”

As he arrived back at the cave, Zeil wasted no time as he tossed the princess wrapped cloak onto the opposite side of the cave as it fell open causing the dog disguised princess to roll out in a state of confusion. Ignoring the princess, Zeil trotted back to his brother as he approached him and spoke, “Sonic… hang in there, I… I think I have something that can help you.”
Zeil grabbed the saddlebag as Sonic mumbled through his pain, “P-princess… princess…”
Zeil searched through the saddlebag as he replied, “It’s alright brother… she’s fine. I got her out of the sun like you asked…. the hive is safe.”
Sonic smiled, “Safe… th-that’s good to hear… so… h-how’s your wing.”
Zeil realized he had nothing in his bag that could help with first aid as he tried to reply while hiding his worry, “W-what wing?”

Sonic coughed while trying to chuckle as he replied, “D-don’t worry… brother… it’s not like the artist lost his p-paint brush.”
Trying to make a witty comeback but thinking of his brother’s feelings Zeil replied, “Well… maybe I look better without them. What do you think?”
Sonic smiled, “Well, w-when I look at you now… it is an improvement.”
Tears started to roll down both their faces as the two chuckled at the joke before Zeil replied, “Don’t worry Sonic… I'll be your eyes for you.”
Sonic smiled, “S-sounds good… Z-Zeil… you mentioned we would go back to Equestria right… will… will you introduce me to… to… what was her name again?”
Zeil replied while trying to keep it together, “Zecora… her name is Zecora.”
Sonic nodded his head, “That’s it… well?… will you introduce me to her, wh-when we get there?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Of course I will… you’re my brother, if there is any changeling I want her to meet, it’s you.”
Sonic smiled, “G-good… that’s good. I can… can tell her all th-the embarrassing st-stories about when we were li-little.”

Zeil wiped away his tears as he tried to reply, “Carful… two can play at that game. I have stories about you too.”
Sonic nodded through his pain as he continued, “I-I’m sure you do.”
Princess Mira turned back into her changeling form as she whispered with concern, “Sonic?”
Slightly hearing her, Sonic mumbled, “Zeil… please… leave if you m-must… but don’t forsake our kind. Sure, we seem to be a lost cause… b-but I’m sure someday… we can change for the better. After all… we’re changelings… it’s kinda what we do…”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “Yea… that’s true.”
Sonic nodded, “Yea… it is… hey… that’s funny… it doesn’t hurt anymore.”
Slowly, Sonic closed his eyes as the horribly burned changeling slowly and peacefully passed away. Seeing this Zeil spoke, “Sonic… Sonic?... Supersonic?”
After seeing no reaction, Zeil wrapped his hooves around his brother as he hugged him and started to cry, “I’m sorry little brother… it… it wasn’t supposed to end like this. You weren’t supposed to get hurt. None of us were. I’m… I’m sorry.”

Zeil held his brother close as he cried for his loss. Seeing this tragic sight, Princess Mira felt pity as she tried to think of something to say. After a few seconds of thinking, Princess Mira spoke, “Sir Zeil… I…”
All of a sudden, something snapped in Zeil as he slowly laid Sonic on the ground and looked over his body. Trying to comfort him, Princess Mira tried to continue, “Words cannot express how deeply so-”
“Shut up…”
Hearing the rage filled voice, Princess Mira silenced herself as Zeil slowly turned his head to look at her out the corner of his eye. But as he did something seemed strange, all of a sudden a dark and terrifying chill ran down her spine as his rage filled gaze seemed to freeze her body in fear. Too terrified to move, Princess Mira said nothing as Zeil turned his head to the cave entrance as he narrowed his eyes on the Equestrian sword that laid with the hilt in the shadow, and the now red hot blade in the sun. Seeing this, Zeil trotted towards the discarded weapon as he reached down and picked up the sward as he looked into the blade that was heated by the sunlight all the while ignoring the heat in the hilt, his burns from the sun, and his missing wing which was now bleeding much less than before.

Princess Mira started stepping back from Zeil as he continued to look into the red hot blade and spoke with a casual tone, “Your majesty… have you ever wondered why I, an alpha drone ever chose to be friends with a simple worker changeling like Supersonic?”
Princess Mira didn’t answer, instead she only watched in worry as Zeil turned to her and started approaching as he continued, “Because I didn’t want to be a drone… so I tried to pass the fame to another who deserved it more.”
As he got closer, Princess Mira backed away as Zeil continued, “I never asked to be treated differently… I never wanted more privilege then the rest of the hive… I never even wanted to be a king… but you and your sister didn’t care, did you? Day by day you pampered us, spoiled us, and treated us better while completely ignoring the rest of the swarm. Ignoring changelings who deserved it more… changelings like my brother.”

As she continued backing up, it wasn’t long before Princess Mira found herself against the back wall of the cave as she spoke, “Wh-what are you going to do?...”
Zeil stopped in front of her as he replied, “I’m going to show you just how determined I am do fulfill his request.”
Filled with rage, Zeil raised the red hot blade up, then quickly turned it around as he pressed it against his bleeding wound where his wing once sat as the searing pain caused him to scream in anger as Princess Mira covered her ears and cringed her eyes in fear. As soon as he was sure the wound was closed, Zeil dropped the blade in pain as the chiming sound of it hitting the ground was barely overshadowed by his deep breathing as he dropped to a knee and tried to endure his pain.

With Zeil momentarily neutralized, Princess Mira quickly rushed passed him and towards the cave’s exit as she stopped just before the sunlight and turned to Zeil in worry, “S-Sir Zeil please, I… I didn’t want this to end as it did… I-I only…”
Zeil continued breathing deeply as he picked himself back onto his hooves, picked up the sword, and looked at her with a look that scared her even more, “I know… you only wanted do what was best for the swarm right?... for your subjects and… your throne.”
With the terrifyingly casual tone, Zeil started trotting towards her as she tried to reason with him, “I… I didn’t want blood to be spilled, I swear I didn’t… I I…”
As Zeil approached, Princess Mira leaned against the closest cave wall as she tried to make the decision of staying there and facing his fury, or running into the sun light to test her luck. As he approached Zeil continued, “What you say doesn’t matter anymore… truth of it is… Sonic is now gone… and… nothing will bring him back.”
Princess Mira Leaned completely against the wall as she spoke with fear, “p-please Sir Zeil… please… mercy…”
In a fit of anger, Zeil reared back his blade and thrusted toward the princess as she closed her eyes in to brace herself for what happens next.

All of a sudden the blade dug into the wall next to her head while parting and singing her pink mane as Zeil sighed “no… I should honor him by… fulfilling his last request.”
With a careless tone, Zeil released the blade as he left it in the wall, turned away from Princess Mira, and spoke, “After you imprisoned us… He wouldn’t let me hurt any changelings while escaping. After you tried to kill us, he wanted to ensure the swarm’s future. After everything you’ve done… he… Captain Supersonic remained loyal to the very end. He’s the reason I saved you from the sun… and if I kill you now… then I’m no better then you.”
Princess Mira stopped leaning against the wall as she replied, “he… he d-”
“Your alive because of him… but if you want to remain that way, I'd suggest you keep quiet till sunset.”
Nervous by his threat, Princess Mira silenced herself as Zeil trotted to Sonic’s body and used both sun cloaks to wrap his body for burial. With the cave as tense as the heat outside, Zeil and Princess Mira kept distance from one another as they both found spots in the cave to lay down and rest.

As the day preceded, both Zeil and Princess Mira found it difficult to fall asleep, however it wasn’t the heat that kept Princess Mira awake, it was fear. She didn’t understand it, every creature in the world gives off an aura that help changelings identify other species, making it easier for them to mimic them and identify their own in disguise. But the aura that Zeil gave off moments ago was neither changeling nor zebra. She didn’t know what she sensed, but whatever it was, it was evil, despite the mercy he showed afterwards. Trying to forget her worries, Princess Mira closed her eyes and continued breathing deeply to tolerate the heat. However as she did, she started to hear movement in the cave as she cringed in worry that the dark creature she sensed was returning to finish its task. However her worries subsided as she heard the sound of a hallow object fall in front of her as she heard Zeil speak with only one word, “Here…”

Confused Princess Mira opened her eyes as she saw a canteen sitting in front of her as Zeil trotted back to where he was before and laid back down. As she sat up Princess Mira felt hesitant as she spoke, “A-are you certai-”
Zeil replied as he looked at her, “If you don’t drink anything then your body will go into shock while you sleep. Then, you will die. At least if your somewhat hydrated you will make it to morning.”
Princess Mira felt like she should decline the offer, but seeing that he was showing some sort of compassion despite the earlier events, she decided to accept his offer as she picked up the canteen and replied, “Thank you… Sir Zeil.”
Zeil replied with a disrespectful tone, “Thank Sonic…”
Feeling too ashamed to reply, Princess Mira took a drink of the water, then closed the canteen as she used her magic to give it back to Zeil on the other side of the cave.

After he retrieved his canteen, there was an awkward moment of silence between the two until Zeil sighed and broke the silence, “you know… he… was the older brother.”
Princess Mira gave Zeil a confused look as he continued, “He hatched almost two hours before I did… but… he still always called me the older brother.” He smiled, “Big Brother Drone… that’s what he would always say… I bet… he called me that knowing that I would always look out for him. Since… I was the drone, I always helped him stand out from the rest of the workers… I recommended him for tasks, and mentioned him when recognition was given… but in the end… he was a worker… and…” he looked at Princess Mira with an accusing stare, “you and your sister constantly reminded him.”
With anger, Zeil looked back at the ground as he sighed, “I wonder… if he were the drone… would he be alive… and I dead?... or… would we both be alive… and I on my way back to Equestria. I guess… we’ll never know.”
With no intention on hearing any sort of reply from Princess Mira, Zeil laid back down and went to sleep as the guilt fill princess laid down and tried to do the same.

Hours later, Princess Mira was woken by noise as she opened her eyes to see that dusk was already upon them as Zeil took out a mixing bowl from his saddlebag and started to dig a hole closer to the entrance of the cave. As she watched him, Princess Mira sat up as Zeil noticed her and spoke while continuing to work, “The sun’s down now… if you want you can leave… I don’t care.”
Princess Mira looked out into the desert then back as she asked, “But… what about you?”
Zeil replied as he continued working, “Don’t worry about me… once I’m done here… I'll be gone and you can forget I was ever here. You can go back to your life and live happily with your subjects and your drone.”
Princess Mira was still concerned as she looked at the shape of the hole he was digging and asked, “Is this… for Sonic?”
Zeil nodded, “I can’t take him with me… but I can’t leave him here either. If anything, I’m going to give him a proper burial, I owe him much more, but this is all I can do.”
As he dig, the walls of the hole started sliding into the grave as Princess Mira used her magic to stop the dirt as she replied, “I shall help… I cannot do much… but I should still honor him however I can.”

Although he didn’t want to ask her for help, he still needed it as Zeil replied with a slightly disrespectful tone, “Do what you want…”
Feeling his pain in his tone, Princess Mira hesitated slightly as she started helping Zeil dig the grave. With both of them working, the grave didn’t take too long to finish as they placed Sonic inside and buried him. As soon as he was completely buried, Zeil patted down the last bit of dirt as Princess Mira used her magic to pull the still stuck sword from the cave wall and stick it into the ground barely and inch above the still loose soil. Seeing the makeshift tombstone Zeil looked upon the grave as he spoke, “Don’t worry Sonic, I'll be sure to tell Zecora all about you. She’ll know you, and how you helped me, I promise.”
Feeling she needed to say a few words too, Princess Mira spoke, “Supersonic of the Black Sand… please know that not only have I misjudged your brother… but I overlook the loyalty and dedication that you’ve demonstrated all these years. For this… with your brother as my witness, I hereby place this burial plot as a landmark for all changelings to admire. You are the true example of what every queen needs more then all else. Loyal and hardworking subjects. I only wish I could have seen it sooner.”

Surprised, but not showing it, Zeil looked at Princess Mira, then back at the grave as he ignored her words and spoke, “Goodbye brother… now… you can watch over me.”
With that, Zeil put on the saddlebag as he turned to leave the cave as he spoke to Princess Mira with a disrespectful tone, “Good by Princess, Have fun with your hive.”
Princess Mira felt his anger was justified as she only nodded her head as Zeil turned and left the cave, however he had only taken a few steps outside the cave before a swarm of changelings flew overhead then landed around him cutting off all means of escape. As they all stood at the ready Apex landing right in front of him as he spoke, “Surrender now traitor you have nowhere to g-”
“SIR APEX!!!”
Nervous Apex looked passed Zeil at the Princess Mira as she commanded with an angry expression, “Clear the way and let him pass!”
Apex tried to respond, “But your majesty! He betrayed the sw-”
She interrupted him as she started trotting towards Zeil, “He did no such thing… in fact he demonstrated his position as an alpha drone by attempting to guide us on a better path for not only our hive, but our species entirely. Now do as I say… and step aside.”

Hearing the angry tone in her voice, Apex stepped out of Zeil’s way as the changelings surrounding them cleared a path as Princess Mira spoke, “Sir Zeil… I sincerely apologies for what’s happened, and I will allow you to leave without objection, but… despite your determination, I would be an inferior ruler, if I did not ask at least one last time… Would you accept to stay here and rule the Black Sand Hive as my king?”
Although he didn’t say anything Zeil still looked at Princess Mira as she explained, “With Apex here, I no longer need you to ensure the hive’s future, however, a good king doesn’t need to be just an alpha drone. He needs to share the wisdom to ensure the future survival of the swarm.I know that if you accept, the future of not just our swarm, but th entire changeling race will be filled with prosperity for our kind, and the rest of the world. So… will you stay here?... with me?”
With that, the entire swarm of changelings started whispering to one another in confusion of the offer. But despite their mixed opinions, Zeil had his mind set as he replied, “I can’t say with all due respect, but I will apologies that I must decline your offer. I told you before, that the reason I’m leaving is because I’m in love with another. So… I have to get back to her, no matter what.”

Disappointed in his answer, Princess Mira sighed as she replied, “I understand… your heart belongs to another, and I can only respect your wishes. So… know that when you leave here, you leave with the support of the Black Sand Hive. I can only wish you luck in your journey… but… please… do not let my actions sway your confidence in our kind. In the end… you are still a changeling, and… I hope you won’t forget where you come from.”
Zeil shook his head as he turned away and replied, “That makes one of us.”
With a cold tone, Zeil turned away and started trotting through the opened path as Apex spoke, “Your majesty? Are you going to let him talk to you like that? We should show him his place while we still ca-”
Princess Mira interrupted, “it’s those actions that started this whole mess in the first place. If I had just listened, then… perhaps we could have spared his brother’s life.”
Apex looked to the cave and saw the grave as he replied, “for a traitor he go-”
“Hold your tongue! You do not have the right to speak of either of them in such a way!”
Worried, Apex silenced himself as Princess Mira looked to Zeil and spoke, “Besides, Something tells me… that this journey, is going to be the least of Sir Zeil’s concerns… I only pray… that I’m wrong.”

Thousands of miles away in Ponyville Twilight sat in her library reading a book, as Spike entered the room, “Hey Twilight, I got a scroll from Shining Armor here.”
Twilight looked up as she replied, “Oh, thank you spike, do you mind reading it for me… I’m a little focused on this page and I don’t want to lose my place.”
Spike gave her a funny look, “So… you want me to read, while you read something else?”
Twilight nodded, “Yep whenever you’re ready.”
Spike shrugged his shoulders as he opened the scroll, “Um… Alright then.” He cleared his throat, “Dear Twilly… I’m afraid I have some bad news regarding your request about that changeling from the Everfree Forest. I sent a squad of ponies to the Land of the Black Sand but they ran into a Princess Mira while they were there. She is the changeling in charge of the hive there and she is holding a lot of hostility towards ponies. The guards did ask if she knew him, but according to her, there isn’t a changeling in her kingdom with the name Zine. So in light of the situation I’m going to call off the se-“
“WHAT?”

All of a sudden, Twilight used her magic to pull the scroll out of Spikes claws as she held it up in front of her and finished, “-call off the search. Princess Mira threatened the guards that she would not allow any more to come searching, and I can’t risk the lives of my guards for a changeling who may or may not be there. So… I’m sorry, but we may have to face facts that he is gone. I hope your friend isn’t too broken up about it, but there isn’t anything I can do. Sincerely, Shining Armor, your BBBFF”
Twilight lowered the scroll as she put her hoof on her head in worry, “oh no… what am I going to tell Zecora?”
Spike replied, “Well… we might have to tell her the truth… by the way… who is Zine again?”
Twilight shook her head as she replied, “he’s a good friend of Zecora’s and… she will be broken up that we couldn’t find him.”
Spike asked, “What are you going to do?”
Twilight sighed in disappointment as she replied, “there is nothing I can do… if the changelings in the land of the Black Sand are hostile, then we can’t risk the kingdoms safety by stating a fight with them. All we can do, is tell her the truth. We couldn’t find Zine.”

Bk2/Ch1 Temple of the Reformed

Book 2 Temple of the Reformed
Chapter 1
Year 0, month 4, day 12

High up in the center of a vast mountain range sat a large temple filled with monks of every intelligent species the world had to offer. Outside, some wearing their matching white robes as they trained in many methods of self-defense, while inside the main building many more sat in a large hall in perfect rows and ranks as they were all trapped in a meditative trance. In the front of this temple, sat the temple master, an Ibex with a white coat, a long white beard and a grey rob. Next to him in two rows of four sat his most trusted decuples which consist of a grey minotaur, a yellow hippogriff, two grey griffins who were identical twins, an anthropomorphic lynx, a red earth pony and a powder blue pegasus, each wearing orange robes, and a shaved mane. With the mix of species from all walks of life gathered in meditation, nothing could be heard as the smoke and smell of incense seemed to be the only movement in the entire hall. Finally as the silence seemed impenetrable, it was eventually broken as the master of the grand temple smiled as he spoke, “Very well…”

Confused by the only sound to be heard in the room, the disciples opened their eyes and looked to their master as the elderly Ibex opened his crystal white eyes and spoke, “Serenity?”
Hearing her name, the blue pegasus stood up as she stepped in front of her master and bowed in a way that said she was ready for her instruction. As she waited the blind master made a curious face as he repeated, “Serenity?... are you here?... Step forward.”
The mare looked up at her master and gave him an annoyed look as the hippogriff sitting next to him whispered, “Sensei… her vow of silence.”
The blind ibex nodded, “Ah, I see… well… I can’t see, but I understand.” He looked in front of him, “Serenity I-” he paused as he leaned closer to the hippogriff, “Is she present?”

Serenity rolled her eyes as the hippogriff added, “She is sensei. She is standing right in front of you.”
The master added, “Where is her staff? Isn’t its purpose to allow those around her to know she is present?”
The hippogriff continued, “It is… but you recall it is forbidden to bring weapons into the main temple.”
The master asked, “Who may I ask, made such a rule?”
The hippogriff continue, “You did sensei…”
Feeling a little foolish the master nodded, “Oh… well… then it was a wise rule.”
Serenity rolled her eyes in hopelessness as the ibex cleared his throat and spoke, “Serenity… It appears we are to be visited by one who is lost. Go into the valley and seek him out?... If I’m right, he should be the zebra caught in a fight with the Sullen Ones.”

Understanding her task, Serenity bowed in respect before turning to the entrance as she made her way towards the large temple doors. As she trotted towards the doors, the master hesitated for a few seconds before asking, “Did she get all that?” the hippogriff nodded, “Yes Sensei she did.”
The Ibex nodded, “Good… ya know… we need to get her a bell or something. If she wasn’t so light on her hooves she would be easier to keep track of.”
The hippogriff nodded, “Sensei? We hold many lost ones here, and yet this is the first you willingly seek one out… may I ask why?”
The Ibex smiled as he replied, “We do not question the will of the universe. Our purpose it to follow its will. More so… when it calls upon one to help.”
The hippogriff asked, “The universe called upon you?”
The master smile seemed unsure as he replied, “We shall see…”

Down in the valley between the mountains, Zeil made his way up the trail that was lined with a thick forest of bamboo. As he continued in his zebra form, He paused when he started hearing the trickling sound of a stream. Going off the trail, Zeil traveled towards the sound until he reached a small clearing where a small stream of water was running down a cliff face into a small shallow pool that was barely a foot at its deepest. Approaching the crystal clear water, Zeil took out a small bowl as he scooped up some water and looked into it for cleanliness. When he saw it was clean, Zeil took a sip of the water and nodded as he mumbled, “Clean enough.”
Zeil then stepped into the shallow water as he made his way to the small stream before pulling out his canteen and holding it under the falling water. As the stream started filling his canteen, Zeil looked into the beauty that was the surrounding mountains. It had been a few months since he was able to escape the deadly charred landscape, and he was just now getting used to traveling during the day since the sun was no longer a danger to him.

Smiling at the setting, Zeil looked down into the water below him as he saw his zebra reflection looking back. As soon as he saw his disguised form, Zeil’s smile slowly faded as he used his left hoof to hold the canteen while dipping his right hoof into the pool scooping up some water in it. As he looked into his reflection that was now in his hoof, Zeil turned his zebra hoof into his changeling one as he watched the water run through the holes in his hoof and back into the pool below. Reminding himself of his troubles, Zeil could only sigh in disappointment as he mumbled, “A drone without a hive… if it wasn’t me, I wouldn’t think it was possible. Can… I even call myself a changeling anymore?... and if I can’t… then what am I-”
Zeil’s mood was interrupted when he felt the water overflowing out of his canteen as he looked back to the water source and pulled it away from the falling stream. Seeing that it was now full, Zeil turned his right hoof back into its zebra form as he closed the cap on the canteen and put it back into his saddlebag.

Turning back to the direction he came from, Zeil mumbled, “Whatever I am… I’m alone now. Sonic is gone, Rafi won’t talk to me for some reason, and even if Princess Mira says she and the swarm support me, I'd rather die than accept their help. I guess… all I can do, is move fo-”
As Zeil made it past the halfway point of the shallow pool, he paused as he started to sense a presence around him. Knowing there was more than one, Zeil mumbled as he tried to identify them by the aura they gave off, “Five of them… a griffin… an earth pony… one-no… two minotaur, and a teenage dragon… But who are they… and what do they wa-”
All of a sudden, Zeil sprang into action as he jumped back as far as he could as three sharpened spears made from bamboo came down and stuck into the ground where he was standing. As Zeil landed in the shallow pond, Zeil paused as twelve more spears of bamboo fell down on him only this time, the spears perfectly impaled the ground around him leaving the shaft of each spear to lock both over and under his neck torso and flank as they locked Zeil in place and made it impossible for him to move.

Pinned and unable to move, Zeil struggled as his group of attackers revealed themselves by exiting the forest. Smiling at their accomplishment, the earth pony of the group stepped into the shallow water and approached his trapped foe. Confused, Zeil just held still in his pinned position as the earth pony approached him, took off his saddlebag and spoke, “Domo.”
With a gloating smirk, the earth pony turned back to the shore and trotted back as he sat the bag down as he and his approaching bandits started looking through their claimed loot. Knowing he was at a disadvantage, Zeil glared at the bandits as he spoke, “You chose the wrong changeling to rob.”
As the group looked back at him the earth pony chuckled as he spoke with a sarcastic tone, “Nani?”
At that moment, Zeil transformed into a large manticore as his sheer increase in size caused the bamboo spears to break apart as the group of bandits dropped the bag and backed away as one called, “Chenjiringu!!!”

As the group backed away from the changeling, Zeil wasted no time as he in his manticore form walked back to his saddlebag then transformed back into a zebra before picking up the bag and pulling out a potion. Cautious, the surrounding bandits readied themselves for a fight as Zeil quickly drank the potion and mumbled, “One… two… three…”
The group stood at the ready as one looked to the leader and spoke, “Nani datte- he just drank? Some kind of medicine?”
The Earth pony looked back and replied, “It could be a potion, Just be ready, Changeling or zebra, he has some skill to dodge those first few spears.”
Knowing the potion has taking effect, Zeil smiled as he replied, “Your right… I’m not as helpless as you think.”

The group of bandits looked at each other in confusion as the griffin in the group spoke, “Wait… now you speak our language?”
Zeil smiled as he shook his head and held up the empty vial, “Nope, but this allows me to understand it, and makes everything I say understandable to anyone. Even if the language is long dead.”
The leading earth pony shook his head as he drew a thin curved dagger, “That doesn’t matter, death sounds the same in every language. And that’s what awaits those who challenge the Sullen Ones.”
After saying that, every member of the group of bandits drew weapons as Zeil readied his stance as he replied, “So what you’re a gang of thieves? Kinda sad you can’t fend for yourself so you resort to stealing from others.”
Ignoring the insult, the earth pony looked at his dragon member as he smiled, “You take this one Charra, make him bleed.”
The dragoness that stood a few feet taller than her leader smiled, “With pleasure.”

The grey teenage dragon stepped forward and readied her staff, but before Zeil could say anything, the dragoness opened her wings and darted across the surface of the water at high speeds towards her target. Surprised by her speed, Zeil was barely able to track her movements as the fast dragon approached him swinging her staff horizontally in an effort to hit him in his face. As Zeil saw the action and dodged her attack, the dragon wasted no time as she swung her staff again this time to his hooves as Zeil also saw this attack and jumped in the air over the staff. Impressed but annoyed, the dragoness tried three more times to try and strike him, but like before Zeil managed to duck under the first, step away from the second and jumped back to dodge the third. As he landed down into the water behind him, Zeil felt something tap his back hoof as he looked out the corner of his eye to see what it was.

Now angry, the dragoness lunged at Zeil and tried again to hit him in the face with a horizontal swing. Only this time instead of dodging the attack, Zeil only took an extra step back as her staff colligated with the shaft of one of the bamboo spear that he dodged earlier. Seeing the obstacle, the dragoness held the staff in place as she released her weapon with one claw and swung at Zeil with her sharp claws exposed. Although Zeil was able to see Charra’s shift from armed to unarmed combat, he was only fast enough to raise his hoof in an attempt to protect his face as her razor sharp claws dug into his arm and threw him to the ground with one powerful slash. As he hit the shallow water, Zeil tried to pick himself up but before he was able to, the dragoness pinned his neck to the bottom of the water with her staff as she held him in place, deep enough for him to have to look through the water to see her, but shallow enough for his muzzle to breath over its surface.

Stuck and unable to move, Zeil laid in the water as his bleeding arm started clouding it as the earth pony called, “Hold him there!”
Pausing, Charra held Zeil down as he watched the blurry image of the approaching bandit leader as he stepped next to his subordinate and smiled, “For a second there I thought you had come from the temple. Your movement were on pare with plenty of the Sensei’s warriors… but you’re body hesitates with worry, you’re not at peace at all…. Are you? Too bad, you would be a profitable addition to our group, but I don’t accept those who can’t fight.”
He looked at his dragon companion and nodded, “Smother him…”
With an evil smile on her face, the dragoness with her left claw still pinning him down with her staff, placed her right claw over his muzzle as she made sure she covered both his nostrils and mouth so he couldn’t breathe. With this, the pinned changeling started struggling from his lack of air as he tried to free himself from the dragon’s grasp.

Smiling at their victim, the gang of bandits watched as their target struggled for air, however their victory was cut short when a blunt stock of bamboo flew out of the forest and hit Charra across her face with enough force to knock her unconscious as she was pushed to the ground releasing Zeil to pick himself up while gasping for air. Leaning against the standing bamboo spears, Zeil tried to catch his breath as the gang of thieves quickly turned their attention to their surrounding as a strange metal rattle-like chiming was heard echoing through the bamboo forest around them. As soon as the sound was heard the group of bandit’s expressions became worried as the griffin in the group spoke, “Boss… it’s a monk.”
As the chiming rattled every second, the now nervous earth pony replied, “I know it’s a monk! Who is it?”

The group continued looking around in worry as the griffin looked back, “I can’t tell, you think it’s one of the disci-”
Before he could finish Serenity fell in from above as she landed behind him wielding a staff that had a thin golden ring at the tip of its shaft with many smaller rings linked on it. Before the surprised griffon could turn to his attacker, the silent mare swung her staff bashing the shaft just below the rings against the griffin’s face as the single hit delved enough force to both throw him, and knock him unconscious. As soon as the group saw her, one of the minotaur yelled, “IT’S SERENITY!!!”
Smiling but not saying anything, the skilled mare jumped back into the bamboo forest behind her and vanished as she started chiming her staff again to every second passed making it impossible to know where she was with the echo of each chime. As the group looked around in worry, the same minotaur panicked as he yelled, “Forget this!”
As he turned to the closest bamboo plant and made an attempt to flee into the forest. However as he approached his only means of escape, he paused suddenly before a gold gleam was seen cutting through the bamboo as the shaft of the gold ringed staff bashed the minotaur in his face knocking him to the ground and unconscious just like the griffin mere moments ago.

As the Severed bamboo stalks started falling, the earth pony called to his only remaining bandit, “We can’t win against her! RETREAT!!!”
With that the two dashed for separate tree lines as the earth pony ran by Zeil’s saddlebag and scooped it up before reaching and vanishing into the bamboo thicket. As the remaining bandits vanished into the forest, Zeil struggled to hold himself up as Serenity stepped out of the forest and into the open. As he looked at the pegasus who saved him, Zeil felt slightly relieved, “Th-thanks… I guess I owe you one…”
With no expression on her face, Serenity started to approach Zeil as he looked at the wound on his arm. All three of the dragonesses claws had cut deep bleeding gashes in his arm as Zeil turned to look at the unconscious dragon before speaking, “So… what now? Should we kill them?”

Unamused by his suggestion, Serenity raised the staff up and used the pommel of the shaft to tap him in his chest with a small amount of force as Zeil was pushed back slightly as he looked back and replied, “Hey… what wa- what was tha- that-”
All of a sudden Zeil started to feel his heart race as his head started feeling heavy and his sight started to fade. Confused by the unexpected dizziness he felt, Zeil tried to focus on Serenity as he tried to speak, “What… did you do?... to-”
Feeling too weak to finish, the dizzy changeling fell to the shallow water beneath him, and lost consciousness.

Hours later, Zeil opened his eyes to find himself laying on a futon in the middle of an eastern themed room. As he sat up, Zeil rubbed his head as he tried to remember, “Wha- what happened?...”
As he rubbed his head, the sliding door to the room opened as Serenity took a step in and taped her staff on the ground making the rings chime once. Seeing this immediately jogged his memory as Zeil scooted back and replied, “Y-you! What did you do to me? Where am I? Are you even on my side or what?”
Serenity didn’t reply, instead she just stood there giving him an emotionless stare as he asked, “Um… can you talk? Do you even understand me? I don’t think that translator potion wore off yet… then again I don’t know how long I’ve been out.”

Serenity didn’t respond, instead she only took a step to the side and gestured out the door in a way that said follow me. After making the gesture, Serenity stepped out of the room and waited as Zeil started to pick himself up. However as soon as he did, he could only cringe at the pain in his arm as the changeling looked to his wound to see that his arm was completely bandaged. As he looked at his wound he started rubbing it as he mumbled, “Great… and me without supplies to treat it… I better not g-”
Seeing that he wasn’t following, Serenity taped her staff against the ground again making yet another chime as Zeil sighed to her interruption, “Alright, alright I’m coming!”
With that, the annoyed changeling tried his best to trot with his wound as he followed Serenity out the door.

As soon as Zeil stepped into the temple plaza, he stopped in shock as he saw a collection of creatures from all over the world as they all trained in the center of the large complex. Amazed, Zeil watched as the mix of griffins, ponies, hippogriffs, small dragons and a large assortment of anthropomorphic animals trained using everything from staves, batons, wooden swords, even their own appendages. As Zeil marveled at the skill that each fighter was preforming that was far beyond even his abilities, he was snapped out of it when he heard the chiming of Serenity’s staff as he looked to see her giving him and annoyed look since he wasn’t following her. Realizing what he was doing Zeil quickly caught up to Serenity as she continued leading him across the complex towards the main temple. As they continued Zeil looked at Serenity and asked, “So… what is this place?”
Serenity didn’t respond, seeing this Zeil spoke again, “Why did you bring me here?”
Serenity replied with the same silence as before as Zeil sighed, “Well… your one for conversation, aren’t you?”
Ignoring his words, Serenity continued leading him through the complex as they neared the large temple at the far back of the facility.

As they approached the main temple, Zeil marveled at the temple’s size as Serenity trotted off to the side and placed her staff on a small rack meant for weaponry. After placing her staff on the rack, Serenity looked at Zeil as she gestured to the rack. Seeing this Zeil shook his head, “Weapons? No… everything I had was taken by those bandits.”
Showing she understood, Serenity nodded as she approached the two massive doors leading into the temple. As she placed her hoof against the doors to open them, she hesitated as she turned to Zeil one last time and put her hoof in front of her mouth as if she was shushing him, or telling him to be quiet. Understanding that she wanted him to be quiet once they were inside, Zeil nodded as he replied, “Okay… silent as a mouse… got it.”
With that, Serenity gave him a confirming nod as she turned back to the large doors and pushed them open.

As soon as the massive doors opened wide enough to let air escape, the smoke and smell of incense slowly emerged from the room as Zeil looked to see a large number of meditating monks inside, and just like the training monks outside, they ranged from almost every type of intelligent creature the world had to offer. As they continued down the center of the room, Zeil and Serenity started to approach the alter at the front of the room where the master Ibex was meditating with seven disciples sitting in rows on each side of him. As they approached the master, Serenity stopped and looked at Zeil as she held out her hoof to him, then rocked it over to the master as if she were introducing the two silently. After doing this, Serenity trotted to the only empty cushion on the alter as she sat down and joined one of the rows of disciples making each row perfectly even. Confused Zeil looked at the meditating Ibex master, then back at Serenity as she gestured her head to the master as if she were telling him to say something.

Seeing this Zeil looked at the old Ibex as he cleared his throat and spoke, “Um… excuse me? Are you who I have to talk to?”
The master opened his eyes and looked towards his voice as he replied, “Oh… I um… I wasn’t expecting anyone… um… who are you? I don’t recognize your voice.”
Seeing his host was blind Zeil hesitated before replying, “I’m um… M-my name is Zine…”
The master smiled, “Ah… I see, you’re the lost one. Strange, I instructed Serenity to lead you here once you ‘ve awoken… it’s not like her to neglect her instruction.”
Confused Zeil looked at Serenity as she placed her hoof on her face with a hopeless expression as Zeil looked back and replied, “You mean the pegasus who saved me? She’s right here…”
the Ibex smiled, “Oh… that’s right, her vow of silence.” He looked to where Serenity was sitting, “Apologies… I hope he wasn’t too much trouble for you.”

Serenity bowed her head slightly but didn’t reply as the master looked back at Zeil and spoke, “So… Mr. Zine… I now know the name of the mask. But perhaps you should reveal your true self.”
Zeil felt confused, “Wh-what?... but… how?...”
The Ibex master smiled, “It is true that my eyes hold no such gift as sight… but I don’t need such amenities to know that your appearance and name are not what they seem to be. So please… reveal yourself.”
Zeil felt uneasy, as he looked at all the disciples who stopped meditating and were watching him closely as the master held his hoof out, “Please… this is a safe sanctuary… within these walls judgment is not passed by one’s appearance. Here… actions are what passes one’s judgment. So… if you please…”
The ibex held out his hoof as if he were giving permission as Zeil could only give a bracing sigh before transformed into his changeling form as all the monks who had also ceased their meditation, started whispering amongst themselves. Hearing their muttering but unable to hear it if was a positive or negative reaction, Zeil held his form as he looked to the master who smiled, “There… now… your true name?”

Zeil gave him a determined stare as he replied, “My name is Zeil.”
The master smiled, “Zeil… and from what land do you hail from?”
Zeil hesitated, he knew he was basically from the changeling kingdom, but with his current situation with his race, he felt he didn’t have the right to say so. So he could only sigh as he replied, “I don’t know… I guess I came from the Land of the Black Sand.”
The Ibex smiled as he spoke, “Very well… Zeil of the Black Sand. For what reason have you sought us out?”
Zeil though he missed something, “What? I didn’t seek you out… if anything you sought me out and I should ask you that question.”

The Master smiled, “And yet, you are the one here with questions.”
Zeil gave him an annoyed look, “The only question I have is, why am I here?”
The master nodded, “That my friend, is the ultimate question.”
Feeling he was getting nowhere, Zeil sighed, “Look… I appreciate the help with those bandits and all…”
“The Sullen Ones…”
Zeil nodded to the master’s corrections, “Yea, them… but I have a long journey ahead of me, and now that I had my supplied stolen, it’s only going to get harder. So if you aren’t keeping me here against my will, I’m just going to go.”
Zeil turned around to leave as the master spoke, “Aren’t you wondering why Chief Rafi hasn’t spoken to you in a while?”

Zeil paused as he slowly turned back to the Ibex and replied, “What? how?...”
The master smiled, “You did not travel through this valley out of sheer whim… you were led. The universe led you down this path so that we may assist you with its task.”
Zeil felt completely confused as he replied, “Task?...”
The master smiled as he used a cane to pick himself up as he started trotting closer and replied, “Yes… a task. Fate has a plan for most of us… and for a select few, it is in need of assistance. It led you down this valley, to this very temple, so that we may assist you in speaking to the one who has the answers you seek.”
Zeil tried to understand, “You mean… Chief Rafi?”
The ibex stopped just a few feet from Zeil as he replied, “Yes… your spiritual guide. A part of you has restricted his guidance for some time now. And so… you are here so that we may grant access to him.”
Zeil was confused, “A part of me? I’ve been meditating with every hope of seeing him for months now… how could I be restricting him?”

The master smiled as he raised his cane and waived it over Zeil’s head, “That’s because your meditating with too much in here…” he lowered the cane and pressed it against the horn on Zeil’s head, “And not enough in here.”
Feeling the unusual press against his horn, Zeil rubbed his horn as he replied in confusion, “My horn?... but… I don’t have magic here like unicorns.”
The master gave him a confused look, “What? Your horn?... wait…”
The master took one more step towards Zeil as he waved his cane over the changeling’s head trying to find something there. When he found nothing but air, he lowered the cane and waved again as he taped it against the side of Zeil’s face. Feeling the contact Zeil rubbed his cheek, “Hey… easy with that thing.”
Trying one last time, the master laid the tip of his cane against the ground and ran it over until he found Zeil’s hoof. Then after finding the changeling’s hooves, he ran the cane up until he felt the debit in his hoof as he rubbed the cane around in it and spoke, “Oh… your… you’re not reformed?”

Zeil was confused, “Reformed?...”
The master tried thinking to himself, “This is most irregular… you’ve accepted love into your life and yet, you hold your parasitic form… but why?”
Zeil could only give the Ibex a confused look as the master called, “Shangri-La!”
With that call, a monk who was mixed in with the rest of the room stood up as he flew over the herd and landed next to the master. As soon as Zeil saw the monk he was surprised, the creature that approached had the same aura as a common changeling, but his appearance was something completely different from any changeling he knew. Rather than being cobalt with greenish wings, and holes in his hooves, this changeling was slightly taller with a lime green body, no holes in his hooves and strange gemlike orbs in his chest. Not to mention the large wings that closed flush with his body and trailed behind him like a tail when closed.

Seeing the strange imitation of his own kind, Zeil spoke, “What, are you?...”
The reformed changeling spoke, “My name is Shangri-La I was once like you… but I abandon my swarm many years ago.”
The master added, “Shangri-La was once here to infiltrate the temple and steal our love. But once he found that we had always known what he was, and supported him nonetheless, he decided to learn our teachings, and in time became reformed once he found how to accept love instead of taking it. Now, He resided here not as an infiltrator, but as a friend.”
Shangri-La nodded, “I renounced my queen and left the swarm. I felt it was better to feel love then it was to take it.”
Zeil nodded, “Small world… but… how did you change into… this?”

The master of the temple smiled, “This is the form of a changeling who accepts, rather than takes. But why haven’t you taken this form I wonder?”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “How should I know… I didn’t even know something like this was possible.”
The master smiled, “Then we should see…” He looked towards his disciples, “Students, pack us a bag. We will leave for pool in the morning.”
Zeil was confused, “Wait wait wait… I didn’t say anything about staying. I have a long journey to make and I can’t waste any of it staying in one place.”
The master smiled, “Then you should only stay a few nights. Nevertheless, you must regain your connection with your spiritual guide. Without his guidance, your journey will end in failure.”
Zeil was curious, “How are you so sure? What do you know about Rafi?”
The master smiled, “He spoke to me… he asked for my help, and wants me to get through to you. But if you have been wanting to see him, and haven’t?... then perhaps getting through won’t be enough.”
The master with his disciples following, trotted passed Zeil as he spoke, “From this moment on, you must refer to me as Sensei… I am the master of this temple and now… your teacher.”

As the Ibex left the temple Zeil tried to stop him, “Wait a second! What if I don’t want to stay?”
The master smiled as he replied, “You have every right to leave if you please… then again, I and the rest of us already know that this is what you want… even if you don’t.”
Although Zeil didn’t like the answer, he knew that the old billy was right. He didn’t know how the Ibex knew about Rafi, nor did he understand what was happening in this temple, but if the wise master truly knew how to help him speak to Rafi again, he was willing to hear him out. Even if he didn’t know if this old goat was truly trustworthy or not.

Bk2/Ch2 What Lies Within

Book 2/ Chapter 2
What Lies Within
Year 0 Month 04 Day 14

The group of monks continued up the mountain trail as Shangri-La replied, “So… you’re on a quest to cross the entire world to get back to this Zecora?”
Zeil nodded, “She deserves to know the truth.”
The ibex master and his disciples led the way as he called back, “Are you so sure?... have you considered the thought that she is better off believing what she does?”
Zeil shook his head as he replied, “And let her think that I just abandon her for no reason? No. I’d rather she know the truth then to think I would ever leave her like that.”
One of the disciples spoke, “And… what if she rejects you for it? What then?”
Zeil shook his head, “I'd rather she know the truth and reject me, then to believe I was capable of abandoning her.”
Shangri-La replied, “But, if your story is true, then that was months ago…and you have months still before you arrive. Are you sure she will remember you by then?”
Zeil nodded, “If she cared for me as much as I care for her… she will never forget.”

Shangri-La smiled as he looked up the path, “True love… I’ve heard rumors about it, but I never thought I would ever hear of a changeling actually experiencing it.”
Zeil asked, “Didn’t you feel love to become reformed?”
Shangri-La shook his head, “What I’ve done is more sharing love then experiencing it… and it isn’t so much as love, but rather friendship or comradery. What you have is love in its purest form. You should have become reformed the moment you kissed her. Or at least a symptom of change.”
Zeil thought to himself, “I did have some weird glitter-like thing with my wing. Well before it was cut off… you think that was it?”
Shangri-La nodded, “Yes exactly. That’s how it starts, but… why can’t you change at will, it’s strange?”
The Ibex master spoke, “could it be that his lack of wings has something to do with it?”

Shangri-La thought to himself, “Perhaps… but a lack of thorns shouldn’t keep a rose from its bloom. There must be more to it.”
The master replied, “Whatever the reason, Rafi can help. We only need to assist you in contacting him.”
Zeil spoke next, “I have a question for Serenity.” The silent mare gave him an annoyed look as he rephrased, “Or… anyone who is willing to answer for her… Why the vow of silence?”
The Ibex master smiled, “By silencing one’s self, one tend to listen more to the world around him, and with it, gain a better understanding of the universe around him. This vow for her, is just another step in her training.”
Zeil nodded as he understood, “Oh… that makes since. How long does the vow usually last?”
The master replied, “It depends on the one taking the vow. Serenity chose it to be indefinite. Or at least till her assentation.”
Zeil was confused, “Her assentation?”

The Ibex master nodded, “Yes, You see I choose my decuples by their skills, their level of peace and their loyalty. And if I were to ask any of my students which one had the most of these qualities they would say…”
The Disciples excluding Serenity all replied, “Serenity.”
Serenity nodded in a way that she too agreed as the master continued, “So by this decision, I have chosen that when the day comes that I am to meet my fate. Serenity shall take over the temple as Sensei. She has more than earned her place and I feel that she will continued to do great things for the lost ones who come to us.”
Zeil was confused again, “Lost ones?”
The master nodded, “Yes, all who come to the temple are lost ones. Some seek a new life, a greater understanding or a place of better acceptance. Once they find what they seek, we give them a choice. To stay and live in peace, to leave by your teachings to better yourself or the world, or to harness your teaching and understand yourself for the better. Although… there are few who disagree with their understanding and chose to do harm with what they learn. You already met one of my former disciples.”

Zeil thought to himself before replying, “You mean… that earth pony in the Sullen Ones?”
The master shook his head, “No… Charra the dragon. She was my first dragon disciple, but she didn’t like that I chose Serenity as my successor so out of teenage envy, and her dragon blood she challenged Serenity to a dual to the death. But I wouldn’t allow it. Part of our teachings is to only harm in self-defense or protection. So when the two fought, Serenity came out the victor, and spared Charra’s life. Broken and disgraced, Charra left the temple and joined the Sullen Ones. It pains me that one with such talent could resort to harming others for material possessions, but, it is not my place to choose how one should live. Only to accept. Those cuts on your forearm… they are from her are they not?”
Zeil looked down at his still bandaged wound as he nodded, “it is… I didn’t expect her to be so fast… it was like fighting a beam of light.”

The caravan continued up the mountain pass as they saw a small stream crossing the path ahead. No one paid it any mind as the ibex master smiled, “I doubt she’s as fast as light… but she was one of my most skilled. And despite her choices, she still has a small sense of loyalty. If only I could find a means of reaching it.”
As the caravan approached the master and his disciples started crossing over the water’s surface as Zeil replied, “Well, she was definably strong. If Serenity wasn’t there I’d be de-”
As Zeil stepped onto the surface of the water, his hoof sank all the way to the knee as the unexpected depth caused him to jump back in surprise, “Whoa! What the!?!”
Hearing the unexpected call, the entire caravan stopped as the Ibex master smiled and spoke without looking back, “Ah… so you’ve lost your balance.”
Confused Zeil looked to the master as he asked, “What?”
The master turned back to his new apprentice and spoke, “Balance… it’s what weighs in all of our abilities. Whether it be peace or magic. One must have balance to master everything.”

At first Zeil was confused but when he took a closer look at the stream of water it seemed to make mores sense. Underneath the water’s surface was a countless cluster of bamboo post that were so close to the surface that anyone crossing the stream seemed to walk on the water itself. As he looked at the countless post and the unknown depth beneath them Zeil mumbled, “Oh… it’s another one of these.”
Though none of the disciples heard his words, the master did as he replied, “Another one? So you’ve done this lesson before?”
Zeil nodded, “yea… Zecora had me cross a river the same way… only the staves were much higher over the water and it was a single row.”
The wise Ibex nodded, “I see… then this is a lesson in indecision then.”
Zeil looked at the master in confusion, “What? What does that have to do with this?”

The master smiled, “try to cross and find out.”
Feeling it was a waste of time, Zeil looked at the closest peg but as he stepped out onto it his eyes shifted to the next, then back as he didn’t center his hoof properly. As he applied pressure, his hoof slipped off the peg and into the water as Zeil jumped back and grunted in annoyance. Feeling he did it wrong, Zeil tried again on a different staff, but like before his hoof was misplaced and he slid off and into the water. After failing the second time, the wise master spoke, “You see… too much focus on the choices and not enough on what one needs.”
Zeil gave the master a confused look, “What do you mean by that?”
The master explain, “Consider this… assume instead of looking at a collection of steps… say they are a collection of marbles on the floor. Now say I told you to take only one. What would you do?”
Zeil replied, “Well, I'd choose the best one.”

The Ibex nodded, “and what is the best one?... the best in merely a matter of opinion. Say each marble is a different size, shape, color, and texture. Why, you could be sitting for hours trying to determine which is best. Life is precious, time lost can never be returned, so why waste it on something that you would take with you, and never use for any real necessity? That marble is only going to go into your possessions and collect dust correct? So why take the time to choose?”
Zeil tried to figure out the answer, “so… should I just refuse to choose?”
The master shook his head, “that too is unwise. By refusing to accept a gift, you are merely passing yourself off as ungrateful or disrespectful. By doing so you could incite distrust or anger with those close to you. Better neutral then an enemy.”
Zeil asked, “So… what do I do?”

The ibex trotted through his disciples until he approached the stream then reached out and firmly planted his hoof on one of the pegs as he replied, “Don’t choose… just step out. By speaking to Rafi, you have already attained your balance at least once before… but even one with balance must know to make decisions quickly. Even if the decision has no real difference in the future, it serves a purpose or overall goal. So… cross the stream, but without focus on your decision.”
Though his statement didn’t make much sense to him, it still seems like a solid logic so giving a bracing sigh, Zeil stepped out onto the closest peg to him. With his first hoof now planted, Zeil started to remember his lesson with Zecora in balance. Though the lesson was months ago, her words still stayed with him as he mumbled, “Balance in body, brings balance in mind… a calming thought true balance can be gained, and your journey across will be easily attained. With this, Zeil closed his eyes to focus, and as he did, he saw something familiar. He could see the line of staves across the rushing stream in the Everfree forest, and at its end, Zecora as she stood there giving him a smile of confidence as she did those few months ago.

Smiling at the familiar sight, Zeil looked down and started to see the line of staves slowly drift apart from their strait order, but still close enough to step onto each and still make it across. So with the path laid out, Zeil stepped forward onto each staff as he continued his path to the other side of the gap. As Zeil reached the other side, he reopened his eyes as he saw all the master’s disciples looking at him with surprised smiles. As he smiled back, Shangri-La spoke, “that was… impressive…”
With a confused expression, the Temple master asked, “What happened?... did he make it? Blind billy in suspense here.”
The hippogriff disciple replied, “He crossed with perfect balance…”
Feeling like it was exaggerated a little, Zeil replied, “Well, I don’t know about that… I just cleared my mind and gained my balance. Did it once before and will probably do it again later.”

Shangri-La replied, “You crossed a stream of balance with your eyes closed before?”
Not catching it, Zeil replied, “I did?” He looked back across the stream that is now behind him “I… guess I didn’t realize.”
The Ibex replied, “If this is true… then you have exceptional peace and balance… so… what is it that keeps your spiritual guide from assisting you?”
Zeil replied, “That’s what you’re supposed to help me with, isn’t it?”
The Wise ibex smiled, “Ah… that’s right. Then let us continue. With luck, we will have our answer soon.”
With that said, the ibex master trotted passed his disciples as he once again lead the group towards their destination.

Later the convoy of monk arrived at a large cave that seemed to dig into the mountain’s side as the ibex spoke, “We have arrived… Serenity?”
Nodding to her instruction, Serenity stepped to the front of the herd as she picked up a pebble, placed it under her wing to hold it, and started trotting forward. With the pebble under her wing, Serenity lead the way as the herd of monks followed the silent mare into the dark cave. As they traveled deeper into the earth, it wasn’t long before they reached a large open cavern that held a small pedestal in the center of the chamber with a large bowl like cavity dug into the center filled with water. As Zeil entered the chamber he looked passed the alter towards the three tunnels that exited the cavern as he started to ask, “Okay… which way sh-”
Shangri-La interrupted as he whispered, “Shh… listen quietly, our path will be chosen for us.”
Zeil replied quietly, “chosen?... ho-“
“Shhh…”

Being shushed by the master this time, Zeil silenced himself as Serenity took the pebble from under her wing and approached the alter in the center of the room. As she approached, she looked back at Zeil then gestured to have him approach. Knowing what she was saying Zeil approached the silent mare as she held out her hoof to him and nodded to it. Confused Zeil asked, “What?...”
Serenity raised and lowered her hoof in a way to tell him to give her his hoof. Barely understanding the silent mare, Zeil held out his hoof as she took it, placed the pebble in it then guided it over the small pillar of water. When his hoof was over the water, Serenity placed her other hoof over her mouth in a manner to shush him as he nodded in understanding. After nodding in response she held his hoof with the pebble over the center of the water as she turned his hoof over and allowed the small stone to drop into the water with a small splash.

As soon as the echo of the splash subsided, the cavern became deftly silent as the herd of monks sat silently waiting. Confused, Zeil looked around but stayed quiet as he tried to understand what they were waiting for. However after a few more seconds of silence a loud drop was heard echoing from one of the three tunnels as ibex master smiled, “There… that is the pool chosen… Come students let us find this lost one’s peace.”
With that, the old goat started trotting through the tunnel towards their chosen path as Shangri-La approached Zeil and explained, “In this cave there are three sacred pools where the most skilled masters gain their inner peace. When one come to seek peace, they must drop a stone into the alter and have a pool chosen for them. If you are ready, a pool will react with a sound, but if you aren’t, nothing will be heard and you must return at a later time.”
Zeil followed the group as he asked, “So… I’m ready? For what?”
The Ibex master replied as he led the path, “for further enlightenment. You obviously have balance and it supposedly matches with your peace, however… if Rafi won’t speak with you, then you don’t seem to be entirely at peace. So… we must strive to find what’s causing this.”

As they continued, it wasn’t long till the group made it to the end of the cavern as they entered a large chamber with a pool of mirror-like water sitting in the center of the chamber. As they approached the pool, Shangri-La started lighting a small number of torches around the room as The Ibex spoke, “Alright students, the time has come to assist our new friend. Take your places around the pool and begin meditating.” He looked towards Zeil, “As for our changeling guest, you must take your place on the stone in the center of the water.”
Zeil nodded, “alright. I guess I can do that.”
As Zeil started trotting towards the edge of the water, the Ibex master continued, “Oh and be mindful of the water, it’s a littl-”

All of a sudden there was a loud splash as Zeil’s first step into the seemingly shallow water was so deep that it completely submerged his entire body as the unsuspected changeling fell in and vanished below the surface. Smiling at what happened, the ibex master finished, “Deep.”
At that moment Zeil surfaced on the water as he spoke, “What the? How deep is this water? It’s just a strait drop-off!”
The ibex nodded, “It is, with the only shallows being the pedestal in the center which is about an inch deep…as for the rest, even I do not know how deep the water reaches.”
Swimming to the center pedestal Zeil replied, “Really… well a better warning would have been nice.”
The ibex smiled, “I said it was a little deep.”

Rolling his eyes Zeil climbed onto the only shallow part of the entire pool as he climbed up onto a small circle platform in the center of wide pool of water. As he sat down on the center of the submerged pedestal, Zeil asked, “Okay so now what?”
The Ibex spoke, “Begin meditating, we will assist you shortly.”
Zeil nodded as he crossed his hind legs, closed his eyes, and started his meditation. As Zeil meditated, the Ibex master looked to his disciples, “Students in position.”
With that instruction all eight disciples with their Ibex master circled around the edges of the pool and sat down making a perfect circle as Shangri-La sat at the edge of the chamber and waited for further instructions.

While Zeil slipped into his meditative state he found something strange about the cave he was in. Usually when meditating, Zeil was able to see himself and his surroundings in more depth, but for some reason, in here, he was completely blind. Himself, the monks, the cave around him, even the water beneath him were completely invisible to him. It was as if he were just plainly sitting with his eyes closed, and not making an attempt to focus at all. As he sat he started to see something finally appear to him, it was a small droplet on the ceiling that was slowly running down a stalactite on the roof of the cave. As Zeil’s focus centered on the droplet, the disciples in the room who were meditating with him, slowly raised their hoofs, talons, arms, and paw out as they held their appendage over the water’s edge and waited. Then just as the droplet fell from the top of the cave, the circle of disciples waited until the exact moment the droplet fell into the pool of water as each disciple in perfect synchronization dipped their appendage into the water just as the droplet hit.

All of a sudden as if a bright light was just turned on, Zeil’s mind was filled with not only the appearance of the room, but a cascade of clarity that he had never had in any meditation session prior to now. Every aspect of his surrounding, not only their appearance and movements, but also their colors and anticipaded paths became so clear to him it was as if he had gained an ability to predict every movement that was even possible. It was as if his mind was overfilled and almost over whelmed by the spirituality of this very room. The only thing that still seemed unclear to him, was the exact depth of the pool he was sitting in, even when he made the effort to see its bottom, all he could see was a deep and seemingly endless abyss.

As he marveled at everything else that was crystal clear to him, his vision was extinguished as everything around him faded before vanishing entirely. Confused, Zeil found himself having some sort of vision as he found himself standing in a vast field of grass. Looking around in confusion Zeil slowly started to recognize the field as he looked into the distance and could see Canterlot on the horizon. Smiling at the sight, Zeil looked around, “Rafi? Are you here? Rafi!”
As Zeil looked around it wasn’t long till he saw a vision of Chief Rafi standing on a hill in the distance. As he saw the vision Zeil started running towards him as he smiled, “There, it’s about time. RAFI!”
As he rushed towards the guiding zebra, Zeil felt confused when the ground beneath the grass started sinking into marsh as each step towards his guiding spirit became harder and harder to trot through.

At first he thought it was the mud beneath the watery grass that was starting to slow his speed, but then he found that it wasn’t mud at all, the water was becoming thicker and darker as the brown muddy water changed almost entirely to a black glue-like liquid. Before he knew it, Zeil’s hooves started to sink into the liquid until it made it impossible for him to take even a single step. As he jerked his hooves to try and move he mumbled, “What… what is this.” He looked at his vision, “Rafi! What’s happening?”
Chief Rafi didn’t answer, instead he only turned towards Zeil before dissolving into ash as a voice replied, “He won’t help you… he never wanted to help you. That’s why he helped the ponies banish you. Why you’re as far from Equestria as you can possibly be.”
Confused Zeil looked around as he asked, “What? Who said that?”
The voice continued, “Face it… Rafi betrayed you… he had no intention of letting you and Zecora live happily-ever-after. If anything he shares the opinion of changelings with the rest of the world. Why else would he only give you the option you had?”
Chief Rafi’s words echoed in his mind, “You will have to choose, whether they see you as what you are… or who you are.”

After the familiar phrase was heard, the dark voice continued, “You think this was a choice to build the ponies opinion? No… Rafi knew that when given this option you would have no choice but to follow its path. He knew that no matter what your choice, you and Zecora would never be. Save the guard and be banished with no hope of returning to her. Or, let the guard fall, and prove to Equestria that changelings are merely what they say they are… a heartless race who only care about themselves.”
Zeil replied, “You’re wrong! Chief Rafi knew that if I chose to save the guard, I could sway their opinions of changelings and give me a chance to be with Zecora.”
All of a sudden the black liquid on the ground continued holding Zeil in place as some materialized into a dark changeling as it stood in front of him and spoke, “Are you so sure?... if he wanted to truly help, he would have warned you of the portal itself. He would have told you clearly what would happen so you could avoid it entirely. So why didn’t he?... because he had no intention of helping you. He knew you would get banished and he knew that you couldn’t make it back from the furthest corner of the globe. Face it… he wanted you to fail. And if you want proof of this guilt, then why does he hide his face while you continuously try to contact him? Why won’t he show himself to you?”

Although the dark changeling’s claim sounded convincing, Zeil still shook his head, “You’re wrong… Rafi is my spiritual guide. He helped me a number of times before and I know that if he could, he would help me again. I trust Rafi with my life. And I will always trust him, no matter what.”
The dark changeling sighed as he replied, “Then… you are fool. And no fool is worthy to host my power.”
With the final words spoke, the dark changeling stood his ground as Zeil looked down at his trapped hooves to see that the dark liquid was now running up his legs as the light grey on his zebra form coat was slowly consumed by the jet black of the dark liquid. Jerking his body to try and free himself, Zeil struggled as much as he could as the liquid finished covering his legs and slowly progressed over his torso.

Back in the cave, the vision Zeil saw wasn’t shared with any of the meditating monks, however Shangri-La who was observing the ceremony could see Zeil’s distressed expression and struggling gestures as he stood up and called, “SENSEI!!!”
Awaking from their joined meditation, The Ibex master along with his disciples stood from their places as they looked to Zeil who was reacting to his vision with jerked movements. Hearing the commotion, The Ibex master spoke, “What is happening? What do you see?”
The hippogriff spoke in horror, “He’s… he’s under attack! Can… Can a spiritual guide do such a thing? Can he harm someone like this?”
The Master shook his head, “No… it’s not Rafi… it’s something else.”

With the attack continuing, Shangri-La spoke, “Whatever it is its killing him! We need to do something!”
The master spoke, “We have to wake him… Serenity!”
Nodding to the order, Serenity griped her staff as she jumped and flew high into the air, then dove towards Zeil at full speed. Approaching from the front, Serenity tackled Zeil as she hooked the shaft of her staff under his chin and dove into the water using her weapon to hold push Zeil deeper and deeper into the water so that his vision could ended by force. In his vision, the black liquid had already reached his neck as Zeil looked to the dark changeling as he spoke one last time, “stop this pointless journey… if you don’t, you’re likely to kill us both.”
With that the vision started to fade, as Zeil’s consciousness faded with it.

Later, Zeil awoke back at the temple in the same room he was in before as Shangri-La sat in the corner as he looked up and spoke, “Welcome back… how are you feeling?”
Zeil rubbed his head as he replied, “Like I’ve gone three rounds with a titan. What happened to me?”
The changeling monk sighed, “Sensei is currently meditating to figure that out. We don’t know what it was… but something inside you is blocking your connection with Rafi. And to make it worse… it attacked you… I wish I only knew why.”
Zeil looked down as he thought to himself, “He said… that Rafi is untrustworthy. That he betrayed me and wanted me casted out of Equestria. And if I continued trying to get back, I would kill us both.”
Shangri-La was confused, “Us?”
Zeil nodded, “yea… whatever that was, it talked as if we were one and the same.”
Shangri-La asked, “So…was he like a second personality or something?”
Zeil shook his head, “I don’t think so… because… he had an aura, something… other than changeling.”

Shangri-La was confused, “An aura? You mean he was his own species? Then what was he?”
Zeil shook his head, “I… I don’t know… it felt like looking at a creature from darkness. Like a cross between some sort of beast, like… a manticore… and something intelligent like… a unicorn… or a…”
Shangri-La finished, “A zebra?”
Zeil nodded, “exactly… you think… it’s something to do with Rafi? It can’t be a coincidence.”
“It is… well sort of.”
At that moment The Ibex master and Serenity entered the room as Shangri-La replied to his master’s words, “Sensei? Did your guide tell you that? What did she say?”
The Ibex sighed, “Sadly, she informed me that this creature that dwells within Zeil is… a part of him. Something that is in accordance with his… fate.”

Zeil was concerned, “Fate? What do you mean? What is it?”
The master shook his head, “A sort of spirit that dwells within a chosen few. However it wasn’t supposed to awaken until a time when you had the power to contain him.”
Zeil was confused, “So… I’ve always had this… thing in me? And it just now woke up?”
The Ibex master shook his head, “No… it has been awake for a while now. The last time you spoke to Rafi was the day it woke. Since then, it’s been blocking your connection with your spirit.”
Zeil was still concerned, “But… how? How can it prevent me from seeing Rafi?”
The ibex master started pacing, “For one to see his spiritual guide takes a number of things. First, a keen understanding and possession of perfect balance. Second, a sense of peace in either mind body or soul. And finally, trust. For one to see his spirit and gain his wisdom one must first have complete trust in his spirit. This… thing inside you shares your being. And for some reason, it has no trust in Rafi.”

Zeil sighed in irritation, “So… that’s why Rafi hasn’t spoken to me in months. When I was banished from Equestria, this thing must have woken then and now it won’t let me see him.”
The old goat stopped pacing as he replied, “Exactly, and with his distrust, you cannot see Chief Rafi.”
Zeil gave him a concerned look, “So… how do I convince it to trust him?”
The Ibex shook his head, “You don’t… as I said before, it was supposed to awaken after you gained the power to suppress it. Meaning it woke too early and for us to overcome it, you must begin training.”
Zeil didn’t like where this was heading, “Training?... what kind of training?”
The master replied, “Spiritual… we will need to teach you more potent forms of balance, peace, and tranquility.”
Zeil gave him a dull look, “Okay… how long is this supposed to last… I can’t wait around here forever you know.”

The master smiled, “Now, now, it shouldn’t be more than a few days at best. You already have a sense of balance and peace, so we only need to hone them more. Then the next time you meditate to speak with Rafi, your balance will outweigh the thing inside you and you will be able to see him. Once that happens, you will become reformed and you will be free to leave, just as fate has planned.”
Zeil gave him a suspicious look, “So… basically my goal is to speak with Rafi then I can leave?”
The Ibex nodded, “Yes… I don’t know what he must tell you, but in order for my task to be complete, you must gain a reconnection with your guide before continuing on your journey.”
Zeil sighed in disappointment as he replied, “Well… I do need to speak with him… so I guess I have no choice.”

The Ibex smiled, “then it’s settled, tomorrow you will train under myself and Serenity. That way you will get the best this temple has to offer. And once you’re finished, this creature within you can be suppressed at least until after you speak with Rafi.”
Zeil thought to himself, “So… what do I do to get rid of it altogether? Suppressing it is fine, but how do I remove it?”
The Ibex master shook his head as he turned to leave the room, “You don’t… whatever this is… it’s now a part of you. Something that can’t be removed. For now, all we must do is suppress his influence upon you, for some day in the future, you will need him, just as he needs you. Till then… we must make sure you’re ready.”
As the Ibex left the room, Shangri-La spoke, “you will need him?... what’s that mean?”
Zeil shook his head as he replied with an uneasy tone, “I don’t know… but something the creature said still worries me… he mentioned that I’m not worthy of his power.”
“So… what the Sensei said, is that power what he meant? Will he give it to you someday?”
Zeil shook his head as he replied, “I think the bigger question is… do I even want power, from something that… dark?...”

Bk2/Ch3 Inner Turmoil

Book 2 / Chapter 3
Inner Turmoil
Year 00 Month 04 Day 20

Zeil sat in a deep meditative state as the Ibex master paced around him and spoke, “See anything yet?”
Zeil shook his head as he replied, “Nothing… just more darkness… this cave is… strange. It’s like it’s trying to block our visions.”
The Ibex smiled as he looked around the sacred pool as he spoke, “Yes it does that… but this is the only way to strengthen our connection with the universe around us. Try this… imagine a point of clarity… suppose a time when you started to understand something that you once misunderstood, say a friend’s feelings, or discovering a harsh truth.”
Sitting in the center of the sacred cave, Zeil started to think of what the master said as he started to think back. First he tried thinking about how he realized that Queen Chrysalis’s actions were more harmful then good, but this only made him angry. Next he tried thinking about the day he noticed the difference between he and his brother’s treatment when growing up in the swarm, but this too only made him slightly depressed. Finally he started to think about something more recent. He imagined the day Zecora showed him through the manticore breeding grounds. He envisioned all the actions he made to appeal to the guarding males and the protective mothers in the herd as his mind started pressing on the congratulatory smiles on Zecora’s face when he was accepted in their territory.

With these thoughts in mind, Zeil started to smile at the visions of his love as the blind master started to sense his peace as he spoke, “Now my student… what do you see?”
Although his mind was entirely on Zecora, Zeil slowly returned to his meditative thoughts as he replied, “I see… an outline… sort of like… a pencil sketch. It’s all around me… the difference between the water’s surface and the ground around it is difficult to tell apart… but… I can see them now. And… I can see you too.”
The Ibex master smiled, “Good, then you have attained a better state of peace… but only an outline?... this means there is more to your troubles… perhaps, an unanswered worry or question in your mind. I wonder… What is it you will say to Rafi once you see him?... what questions would you ask?”

Zeil opened his eyes and thought to himself before replying, “I guess… my first question would be about this thing inside me.”
The master shook his head, “You didn’t know of this spirit a few days ago… so what would you have asked him prior to it’s discovery?”
Zeil continued, “I guess, what I should do… about this journey I mean.”
The ibex gave Zeil a confused look, “What you should do?... how do you mean?”
Zeil Tried to find a better way of phrasing it, “Well… like… how should I continue? Or… if he feels I even can.”
The Ibex smiled, “Ah… I see now. You have doubt in yourself.”
Zeil tried to reply, “No, it’s not that… I just… well…”
The master shook his head, “Do not shackle this feeling. It is common for even the wisest of souls to feel doubt when undertaking a journey such as this. But the better question to ask would be… How do I suppress this doubt?”

Though he would have phrased it differently, Zeil agreed with the question as he climbed into the water, swam to the shore and climbed out of the pool before replying, “Yea… something like that.”
The Ibex nodded, “Well… perhaps I can answer such a question. First… consider, what would you gain from making such a journey?”
Zeil replied, “I would be able to tell Zecora the truth. And… take light in the fact that she knows I didn’t abandon her by choice.”
The master smiled, “So… it would ease your conscience… anything else?”
Zeil felt a little embarrassed to continue as he replied, “Well… I would like to stay there with her. I… would like to spend the rest of my life by her side.”
The ibex smiled, “Ah… as her husband?”
Zeil’s grey coat between the striped on his face turned red as he replied, “Wh-what? No… no… I… I mean… maybe… someday at least.”

The ibex nodded as he replied, “I see… your love for this mare truly runs deep… so… if you were to cease this journey… then what would you do?”
Zeil tried to think, “I… well… I don’t know… I… I have nowhere else to go.”
The master shook his head, “I’ve never understood that statement… nowhere to go. You have plenty of places to go… You have a whole world around you. You only lack a place you feel you can trust others. But… in doing such a thing, you would void yourself of the happiness you wish to experience with Zecora correct?”
Zeil nodded, but didn’t reply as the ibex continued, “Then there is your answer, the way to suppress your doubt is to understand the result of both finishing the journey, and abandoning it.”
Zeil sat down and tried to think to himself as he mumbled, “But… is that enough?”
The master shook his head, “That is not a question that Chief Rafi nor I could ever answer… that question is for you. But, perhaps it’s a question for another time.” he raised his hoof to feel the air around him, “The humidity is rising… Dusk is approaching. At this time you should return to the temple to rest. We can continue training in the morning."

Zeil nodded as he turned towards the exit, “Okay, but what about you Sensei? What are you going to do?”
The wise master sat down as he replied, “This old goat needs to meditate. I wish to see what my guide thinks of your progress. Even I need questions answered from time to time.”
Zeil asked, “I remember you mentioning earlier that your spiritual guide is a mare, can I ask who?”
The ibex nodded, “All I know is that she is a mare from a faraway kingdom that is no more. Nevertheless, she guides me as I guide my students, now go… the day is done and now is the time when those who train should rest.”
Although he wanted to know more, “Zeil felt that the old billy didn’t dwell too far into his guide’s life to know more, so with nothing more to talk about, Zeil left the old goat alone as he exited the cave and made his way back to the temple.

As the changeling arrived back at the large sanctuary, he entered through the main arch gate into the large quart yard that usually held an assortment of training monk, but given the time of day, they had all retired leaving the yard empty. Continuing through the temple, Zeil entered another wing of the complex where he noticed that there were two monks still out training. In the final training ground next to the main shrine stood both Serenity and what appeared to be a light tan unicorn, however Zeil could tell right away that the aura the unicorn was giving off wasn’t unicorn at all, it was Shangri-La in disguise. Seeing the only other changeling in the entire temple about to take on the strongest of the master’s disciples intrigued Zeil as the curious changeling sat down as he started watching the spar from a safe distance. Then as both worriers eyes each other down with wooden spears in hoof, Serenity gave him a nod as if she said begin. Like a machine whose switch was activated, Shangri-La charged at Serenity and attacked with a barrage of rapid attacks as the skilled disciple used her spear to block each swing and thrust that Shangri-La attempted.

One by one, Shangri-La swung and trusted his spear with attacks that were both accurate and effective for winning a fight, but no matter how hard he tried, Serenity was easily able to block the attack while using no effort to counter in any way. Seeing his obstacle, Shangri-La decided to change his stance so that he had a small opening in his defense that was obvious, then he preceded to space his attacks slightly to allow Serenity to have a clear shot at him through his offence. Although Zeil didn’t see the obvious trap, Serenity did as she decided to follow it as she parried Shangri-La’s spear then thrusted the wooden blade of her weapon into the window in his defense. As soon as this happened, Shangri-La used his fast reflexes to release his weapon and jump to the side, then as Serenity’s blade passed him by, he used his right hoof to grab her weapon right under the wood blade, then used his left to hit the spear right behind where he grabbed it causing the wooden shaft to break while leaving the wooden blade in his right hoof as if it were now a dagger.

Surprised by the strategy, Zeil continued watching as Shangri-La tossed the blade of Serenity’s spear away then quickly picked up his weapon again and tried to swing at her with one powerful horizontal swing. Although the blade of her spear was now gone, the shaft remained as serenity buried the shaft into the ground and shifted her body behind it as Shangri-La’s attack hit the damaged weapon once again blocking his attack on the mare he was trying to hit. Then before he could react to the failed attack, Serenity used the same technique that damaged her weapon as she used her left hoof to grab Shangri-La’s spear just under the blade. Then, releasing her weapon and shifting her body completely around, Serenity used her right wing to swing upward as the contact she made with his weapon shattered the staff just below the wooden blade. With her back now turned to her opponent, the skilled mare didn’t waste a moment as she kicked back hitting Shangri-La in his face as the powerful kick tossed the unicorn disguised changeling across the area as he dropped his weapon and rolled to a stop.

Although the monks were fighting a hundred feet away, Zeil started feeling an intense emotion coming from Shangri-La, it was rage. With the emotion controlling him, Shangri-La picked himself up and charged at Serenity without even attempting to retrieve his weapon as the skilled mare waited till he was close enough for her to react. With an angry glare, the enraged changing charged at Serenity as he tried to tackle her. However just as he lunged forward, the disciple jumped into the air and thrusted her damaged weapon down as the end of the broken spear hit Shangri-La right above the unicorn horn on his head as the impact threw his head into the ground causing the changeling to stop his charge immediately. With that, the airborne pegasus flew towards Shangri-La’s abandon weapon as she swooped down, scooped it up, then flew back to her stunned opponent. As Shangri-La tried to regain his focus, serenity leveled out her flight right over him as she thrusted both staved down and embedded them in the ground on both sides of Shangri-La’s neck before crossing them over each other in a scissor formation pinning him down and cutting off his air.

For the first few seconds, Serenity emotionlessly held Shangri-La on the ground as he grabbed both broken spears and tried all he could to free himself to get air. Then Shangri-La finally stopped struggling as he started tapping one of the spears while trying to speak, “I… I get it… eno…”
Seeing he’s been beaten, Serenity stopped crossing the spears as she pilled both weapons from the ground and jumped back a few feet before landing and tapping them together as they made a wood chiming sound. Hearing this Shangri-La picked himself up, changed into his changeling form, and rubbed his neck as he spoke, “I know, I know… my anger took hold again. I apologies… I'll try to work on it.”
Serenity gave him a dull look as if she didn’t believe him as she tossed the staves to the ground and trotted passed him. As she started passing Shangri-La Serenity gave him an angry glare that spoke to him as if she were telepathic. Knowing what her gaze meant, Shangri-La sighed, “I promise I will work on it. Peace bring tranquility and that’s what I need to survive.”
Serenity nodded as if to say, remember that, as she continued trotting passed him and went into the main temple behind him.

Seeing her irritation Shangri-La sighed, “Failed again…”
Not hearing his words, Zeil approached as he smiled, “Wow… that was impressive.”
Not knowing he had a spectator, Shangri-La looked up and smiled, “Oh, Zeil, I didn’t see you there… I guess it would have been… if I had won… or at least passed.”
Zeil could hear his doubt, “Passed?”
Shangri-La sighed, “My anger took hold again… every time I fight, my mind reverts back to the old days, and… that’s just not how we train here. Serenity has tried to help break me of that… but so far it’s a hard habit to break.”
Zeil was curious, “The old days?”
Shangri-La nodded, “Back in my old hive. Under my queen, we used to train with anger knowing that it was our anger that could claim other’s love and provide us food. But that was before I left.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… I know... did you come from Princess Mira’s hive in the east?”
Shangri-La shook his head, “No, my hive was from the far north, under Queen Erica.”
Zeil shook his head “I’m not familiar with her.”
Shangri-La nodded, “Yea, sometimes I wish I wasn’t either.”
Zeil sighed as he nodded, “I know the feeling… So…”

Trying to figure how to word his question, Zeil thought to himself as Shangri-La spoke, “Something on your mind?”
Zeil nodded, “Speaking of the hive… when you left yours… what did you think would happen? It’s just…” He looked down, “I still feel like I abandon something important, and… I’m having a hard time knowing if what I did was the right choice.”
Shangri-La smiled, “Do you love her?”
Zeil looked back in confusion, “What?”
“Zecora, the zebra you left your hive for… do you love her?”
Zeil nodded, “I do… yes.”
Shangri-La patted him on the shoulder, “Then what’s there to question? You left your hive for something better then what you had… I'd say that’s reason enough.”

Zeil asked, “So… is that what you left for? When you abandon your hive?”
Shangri-La sighed, “I left because… in the end, I found I didn’t matter enough.”
Zeil was confused, “What do you mean?”
Shangri-La looked at his changeling hoof as he replied, “I’m not a drone like you… I wasn’t meant to take on any important changeling roles, I was just raised to serve the queen as all workers were.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I can’t say I know how you feel, but I had a brother who was the same way.”
Shangri-La nodded as he looked back at Zeil, “When I found this place looking for food for the hive, I thought it would lead to praise from my queen. So… I took the form of a unicorn and played the role of a lost one seeking self-worth. What I found was a lifestyle that was fare better than the one I left behind. Here, they treated me as an equal. And to make it stranger, they knew since day one that I was a changeling, and that I was trying to discover their weakness, so I could bring my hive to steal their love.”
“What did sensei do?”

Shangri-La smiled, “He brought me in and spoke to me calmly just as he had the day I arrived. He said that if my intentions were to bring harm, then he and the rest of the temple would have no choice but to fight back. But till then, I am and would always be a welcomed student of this temple.” He chuckled, “I couldn’t believe it, treated me as an equal, knowing who I was and what I wanted to do. I never knew of anyone, pony, ibex or anything that could ever show such… such… I don’t know… forgiveness, kindness, wisdom… take your pick. Either way… I decided that the hive will be better without the conflict… and me.”
Zeil asked, “But… what if your hive comes for you?”
Shangri-La’s smile seemed to turn to a less happy one, “Why would they?... I’m a worker… one of a million. I was already replaced the day I left, and then some. Besides, it’s been five years since I left my hive… and not one came looking for me.”
Zeil felt a little bad for him as he replied, “I’m… sorry to hear that.”

Shangri-La shook his head, “Don’t be… I found a home that is better than my old hive. With friends that I can trust with my life. And if some day my swarm comes for me… I'll simply tell them to leave.”
Zeil asked, “And… if they refuse?”
Shangri-La chuckled, “You think this temple is defenseless?”
Zeil smiled, “Good point, Serenity alone could defend this place. But still…”
Shangri-La’s smile turned pleasant, “I made my choice to stay because this, is my home. This is where I belong and where I’m happiest. Isn’t that why you left your swarm? Because that mare, that forest, that kingdom is really your home?”
Zeil nodded, “Well… not so much the kingdom… but… Zecora and the Everfree Forest… yea. I would think that’s my home.”
Shangri-La replied, “Then that’s reason enough… not only to defend your home, but to abandon a swarm for it.”

Zeil thought to himself, “Well… I guess when you look at it like that, it makes sense. Maybe I made the right choice after all.”
Shangri-La nodded as he trotted over and picked up his broken spear as he replied, “Of course it does, anyways, is that all? Or is there something else on your mind.”
Zeil replied as he pointed to the broken spear in Shangri-La’s hoof as he continued, “Can I ask about that? Those spears are meant to block swords, how did you punch through them like that?”
Shangri-La smiled as he trotted to a nearby weapons rack, took two none damaged wooden spears from the rack, and replied, “I can show you if you like, it’s a simple technique the sensei teaches that allows us to disarm our opponent.”
Zeil smiled, “Really? Well, I can always use an extra lesson or two, if it’s not any trouble.”

Shangri-La smiled as he handed one of the spears to Zeil, “No trouble at all, always happy to help a fellow changeling. I guess your zebra form is you’re most comfortable?”
Zeil didn’t understand, “Um… comfortable?”
Shangri-La smiled, “Of course, for a changeling to train at their fullest they need a form that helps them find the most peace. Mine is my unicorn form.” He turned into a unicorn, “It’s the form I took when I arrived her and it is the one that was accepted first, so it’s the form I train in. Back in the hive we are taught to take the form of whatever we need to fight or flee, but it’s impossible to master all forms of fighting with all forms of appearances right? That and your best skills always come when you are at peace, so it’s good to have an appearance that matches your type of peace.”

Understanding the concept, Zeil nodded, “Ah… I see, so… I guess this form is my form to train in… since… it’s the one Zecora accepts.”
Seeing that Zeil’s expression started to become depresses, Shangri-La spoke, “You’ll get back to her Zeil. Then, you can tell her the truth, and you to will finally be together.”
With the words cheering him up Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Right… so what’s first?”
Shangri-La trotted to an open area and held the staff at an offensive stance, “Follow my lead… first you need to know how many ways this weapon can attack, then I'll show you how many leave it open for the attack. Once you know that, I can show you its weak points and how to use them to your advantage.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Then I’ll fallow your lead.”

Back in the Cave, the Blind ibex sat in a deep stated of meditation as he experienced a vision of a high mountain peak as he sat looking deeply into distance before speaking, “His training is going slowly… but his doubt is declining. I think that within the week… he will be ready to see Rafi.”
Behind the Ibex stood a tall cream colored Alicorn with a crimson mane as she replied, “No… tomorrow he will be ready.”
The ibex turned to the alicorn, “Tomorrow? Are you so sure? He has only had a week of training.”
Another voice spoke as Chief Rafi appeared beside the alicorn as he added, “His doubt is now gone… with a little persuasion he can get past the darkness and seek my guidance. However… his fight is still long ahead of him.”
The ibex tried to act patient as he asked, “You’ve yet to explain the darkness or its intent.”

Chief Rafi shook his head, “As said before, it is a matter that must be dealt with when he is ready to face it… till then, he can only try reasoning with it. Otherwise… it will consume and devour him.”
The Ibex master gave Rafi an annoyed look, “I cannot allow that… though his stay is temporary, Zeil is now a student of mine. And as his teacher, I must see to his safety.”
Chief Rafi smiled, “Do not mistake my guidance for lack of concern. I too want to see him succeed over this threat. However, this darkness predates almost all you see before you. In fact… its age rivals that of even your spiritual guide.”
The ibex gave the Alicorn a curious look, “Is that true?”
The wise alicorn nodded, “It is… but that’s a tale not meant for this time. The matter at hoof is that Zeil must seek guidance tomorrow… and not a day later.”

The ibex nodded, “If the universe seeks it, I will make it so… but… will he be ready to face the darkness?”
The all alicorn shook her head, “We can only hope so… in order for his fate to precede, he must act soon… or… I fear it may be too late.”
Understanding his spiritual guide, the wise master replied as he bowed, “I understand your majesty, I will have preparations made. With hope and good fortune, young Zeil will see your daughter’s kingdom again.”
The queen nodded, “I pray you are right, but only if he is able to quill the darkness, will he ever see Equestria again.” She looked at Chief Rafi, “I will leave him in your care… guide him well.”
Chief Rafi smiled, “Of course… it’s not just his fate that I see value in. but the happiness of my ancestor as well.”

The tall alicorn smiled with peace as she nodded, then turned to trot away as her body dissolved into cherry blossoms. Seeing this, Chief Rafi looked at the ibex master and spoke one last time, “Thank you for your assistance Sensei… I know that with your help, Zeil would be able to find his way. And for that, I’m grateful.”
The sensei nodded, “You know as well as I that assisting lost ones is what we do.”
Chief Rafi smiled, “Yes… then May good fortune smile upon you.”
“And you my friend.”
And with that the vision vanished as the old billy awoke from his meditation and found himself back in the sacred cave.

The next day, the wise master was true to his word, as he led Zeil back into the cave as the two entered the cavern with his disciples and Shangri-La already waiting as Zeil spoke, “Are you sure about this sensei? What if I’m unable to see that shadow again?”
The master smiled, “What is the most peaceful moment of your life?”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
The ibex explained, “A week ago you crossed the stream of balance with perfect peace by envisioning a moment that put you at ease. Recently I’ve noticed that other moments of peace have assisted you in your training, all of which tie to memories of tranquility that you’ve experience prior. So… what is the most peaceful thing you can think of?”

Zeil mumbled as he thought, “I do know of one time… the moment I fell in love with Zecora.”
The ibex master smiled, “A moment of peace can be many things, self-realization, an understanding of one’s feelings or even a simple moment of looking into the distance, just know that your peace will take form in whatever challenge awaits. Hold this peace, and may good fortune smile upon you.”
The ibex master turned to his disciples, “Alright students… in place! The time has come and Zeil’s guide awaits his arrival. Zeil you know what to do.”
Zeil nodded as he carefully climbed into the pool of water as he replied, “Yes sensei…”
With that, Zeil swam to the center pedestal and climbed back out before sitting in preparation of his meditation. After sitting in his place Zeil spoke up, “I’m ready when you are Sensei.”
The ibex master smiled, “Then let us begin.”
With that, the old master sat in place as the rest of his deciples sat around the pool while Shangri-La called from the side of the cavern, “Zeil, I'll be waiting here in case of a repeat of our last incident. Just remember your home… and the rest should come naturally.”

Zeil could only smile at the advice as he closed his eyes and started to focus. As expected, Zeil’s first few seconds of meditation only revealed darkness however just like the last time the monks helped him, the water drops on the ceiling appeared and fell just as the disciples taped the water bringing with it, the full clarity that was his surroundings and more. With this vision of everything around him, Zeil knew what would come next as the vision faded and he delved deeper, until he once again found himself standing in that open field on Equestria, however, there was no grass. This time, the field was wet and muddy with an assortment of broken weapons and shields scattered across the landscape which was itself bright red from a solar eclipse in the sky. Seeing this, Zeil immediately recognized it as the battlefield that Chief Rafi showed him, back when the old zebra was alive. Knowing where he was left no confusion in his expression, as Zeil looked forward and spoke, “Show yourself… I know you’re here.”

Once again, the dark liquid slowly emerged from the mud below as it formed into a dark changeling that spoke without an expression, “So… you’ve returned.”
Zeil nodded, “I had to…”
The changeling sighed, “If you’re looking to seek advice from that traitor, your effort is wasted. You know as well as I he won’t help you.”
Zeil shook his head, “No… because you’re blocking him.”
The changeling became curious, “Am I? How so?”
Zeil couldn’t tell if the changeling was serious or not so he explained, “You and I are part of the same being… so your distrust is preventing him from helping us.”
The Changeling smiled, “Really… good.”

The changeling turned and started trotting away as Zeil spoke up, “I want you to allow him to see us!”
The figure continued without stopping, “Really… and why would I do that?”
Zeil stepped forward, “Zecora!”
The changeling paused as Zeil continued, “If you are truly a part of me… then part of you is in love with her too right?...” The dark changeling turned towards him as Zeil continued, “Can you do it? Can you truly let her believe we abandon her?... can you accept that she will despise and hate us till our dying day… All because we didn’t meet her when we said we would? Can you accept her hatred for that?”
The changeling finally replied, “Your point?”
Zeil replied, “If we intend on changing that, then we need Rafi to help us.”
The dark changeling sighed as he mumbled, “This was the one chosen?...”
“What was that?”

The changeling shook his head, “Nothing… so… if you mean to prevent this… then what do you propose? I’m not simply going to stand aside and let that traitor con us into an early grave.”
Zeil replied with a serious tone, “Then let’s decide with a duel.”
“A duel?”
Zeil nodded, “Yea, a duel… you and me?”
The darkness was intrigued, “And the terms?”
Knowing he had his attention Zeil spoke, “I win… you let me see Rafi and we continue this journey so that Zecora won’t hate us for the rest of our life.”
The changeling replied, “And if I win?”

Zeil gave him a nod, “You make the call. Whatever you decide I won’t object.”
The dark changeling mumbled again, “We must be losing our minds.”
He then stood in silence for a few seconds as he tried to think of an option, then the dark creature replied, “Are you sure you even have what it takes… from where I stand, you are nowhere close to attaining my power. I wonder why you were even chosen to begin with.”
Zeil didn’t understand his words but he was determined as he replied, “I don’t even want your power! I only want to see Zecora again… I just want to make it back to her. And I'll do whatever it takes to do just that… even if it kills me.”
The dark changeling smiled, “Foolish choice of words… however… I accept.”

Back in the cavern, Shangri-La watched Zeil closely as the rest of the monks in the room meditated around the pool. After a few more seconds something happened, Zeil’s body slowly rose into the air as he started growly brightly before his entire body was covered in a cocoon. Seeing this Shangri-La stood up and smiled, “Sensei! It’s happening! He’s becoming reformed!”
With that the ibex master and the rest of the disciples stood up and looked at Zeil as the Sensei smiled, “He is?… Good, then he was successful.”
The group of monks watched the bright cocoon in the center of the cavern waiting for Zeil to emerge from it, however, nothing happened as the cocoon stopped glowing leaving it to turn a dull green. Every monk in the room excluding the master were confused, as the blind master spoke, “Congratulations Zeil, I knew you could do it… for a minute there I was a little worried you wou… wouldn’t… wait…”
Noticing the silence the master’s expression turned serious as he spoke, “What’s going on?”

One of the disciples spoke up, “He changed into a cocoon… but… he isn’t breaking free.”
Worried, both Shangri-La and Serenity flew towards the cocoon and landed next to it as the master replied, “He isn’t awakening? Shangri-La! Is this normal?”
Shangri-La examined the cocoon as he replied, “No… he should have broken free after a brief moment inside… I… I don’t understand what’s going on.”
Serenity placed her ear against it, then after a few seconds she looked at Shangri-La and gestured to it as he too listened in and spoke, “I hear a heartbeat… so… he is alive… but… he isn’t coming out.”
One of the disciples spoke up, “Should we cut him out of there?”
The sensei shook his head, “It’s unwise to do that… a chicken can only hatch once it’s ready. Breaking him out too soon could kill him.”
The disciple asked, “Then… what do we do?”
The sensei looked at the center of the room, “Shangri-La?...”
The worried changeling replied, “The only thing I can think of… is to leave him be. When he is ready he should break out on his own… I hope.”

The sensei nodded, “Then we shall do just that. Make arrangements to move him to the temple. We need to keep a close eye on him while we wait.”
The disciples nodded as they turned to leave the cave, “Yes sensei.”
As the disciples left to gather more to help, Shangri-La flew back to his master as the worried master spoke, “Shangri-La? I understand this is unusual, even to your kind… but if there is anything Zeil needs while he is like this, I want you to see to it.”
Shangri-La nodded as he replied, “I understand sensei but… I’m worried… how long do you think he will be like this?”
The master shook his head, “I cannot say, I would assume it depends on Zeil. I only hope that when he does awaken, it’s still him, and not… something else.”

Bk2/Ch4 Mara

Book 2 / Chapter 4
Mara
Year?? Month?? Day??

The zebra disguised Zeil stood on the muddy battlefield outside Canterlot as he gazed upon his opponent as the dark changeling gave him an unamused look and spoke, “So… are you prepared to begin?”
Zeil gave an offensive stance as he replied, “Yea… whenever you are…”
Unimpressed, the dark changeling looked at his opponent’s stance then sighed in irritation, “Unlikely… first we need this.”
With that, the dark liquid in the mud built up beside both Zeil and the evil changeling as it rose from the ground and accumulated into a long shaft before hardening into a solid wood spear with a black shaft and a black steel blade. After the weapons hardened, the dark changeling grabbed the one next to him as he spoke, “There… for this duel to be fair, we will both fight with the same weapons and abilities at our disposal… agreed?”
Zeil nodded, “Agreed.”
The dark changeling readied his spear and replied, “Once you take your weapon, we will begin.”

Understanding, Zeil started reaching for the spear that stood next to him, however just before he took it, the dark changeling spoke, “One more addition to the rules!”
Zeil paused as the changeling continued, “At any time, either one of us could concede to the fight. However, in doing so, you will forfeit your side of the terms, and… I will not allow you a second chance to face me. Understand? If you give up you will never see Rafi. So… do you want to continue? Once you grab that spear, it’s all or nothing… so think carefully first.”
Zeil looked at the changeling’s serious expression as he nodded, “I have… and for Zecora… it’s more than worth it.”
The changeling nodded as he replied, “Then take the weapon and we will begin.”
Zeil nodded as he looked at the weapon beside him, grabbed it then looked back. However as he looked back at his opponent, he saw that the changeling and his weapon were both gone. Confused Zeil looked around for his foe, however before he was able to see where he had gone, a glare ran up his body as Zeil quickly looked towards the sky to see that the dark changeling had turned into a griffin, flew strait up in the air, and was now diving down with his weapon ready.

With almost no time to react, Zeil quickly jumped out of the way as the large griffin hit the ground embedding his spear in the place where Zeil was standing moments ago. As Zeil quickly turned to counter, the griffin disguised darkness quickly turned into a massive minotaur as he swung his large left arm out hitting Zeil with the back of his hand and tossing him across the field as he hit the face of a shield that was embedded in the ground twenty feet away. Pain riddled, Zeil struggled to pick himself up as he looked over at the large monitor as the massive creature left his weapon stuck in the ground, approached Zeil, and turned back into a changeling before speaking, “Is that it?... is that all you can muster? I thought you were chosen?”
Zeil was confused as he wiped a bit of blood from his mouth, “Chosen?”
Without hearing him the changeling continued, “A thousand years and over a hundred generations of enchanters, and enchantresses. All zebra… but you… a changeling of all things… why were you chosen?”
Getting tired of stalling, Zeil replied as he charged with the spear, “Chosen for WHAT!!!”

As Zeil charged with an intent to impale his opponent, the changeling gave him a dull look as he waited till Zeil was close enough to him. With no concern for his enemy, the dark changeling continued waiting with an emotionless expression till Zeil was close enough to lung the spear at him, but as the blade neared his skin, the dark changeling transformed yet again, this time into a large black dragon. Seeing that his target was now too big to harm, Zeil quickly changed his actions and tried to jump back away from his foe. However as he jumped back, the large dragon swung his claw and caught him in the center of his palm causing him to drop his weapon as the dragon held Zeil in the air and spoke, “Chosen for what?... you speak as if you don’t even KNOW!!!”
With that said, the black dragon threw Zeil across the battlefield as Zeil flew hundreds of feet from where he was tossed. As Zeil fell to the ground, the helpless changeling hit the ground and slid through the armor littered mud with no control with his speed or direction of his slid. As he helplessly slid across the mud, Zeil didn’t see an exposed spear sticking out of his path as the blade, hit, pierced and broke off in his left hind hoof as the zebra disguised changeling screamed in pain while continuing his slid for a few more feet before stopping.

Even more wounded and pain riddled then before, Zeil tried to pick himself up, but as he did, the powerful serge of pain shot up his body from his wounded hoof as he quickly fell back to the ground to look at his wound. Seeing the blade still imbedded in his hoof, Zeil could only cringe at the combination of the sight and pain as he looked up the line left from his slid in the mud to see the black dragon arrive at the site as he landed a little over a hundred feet away. Seeing his wound, the black dragon turned back into a changeling as he spoke, “Look at you… barley begun and already defeated… If you want to forfeit, you’d be wise to do it now.”
Zeil glared at his foe as he tried to reply through his pain, “I… I can’t… I won’t…”
The dark changeling shook his head, “You truly are a fool… you’ve lost this fight and then some, and yet you still refuse to give up?”
Zeil looked around in a subtle way as he noticed a shield a number of feet behind him as he looked back and replied, “Zecora is waiting for me… I can’t give up… not till I get back to her and tell her the truth.”

Zeil tried backing towards the shield behind him as the dark changeling started trotting closer as he spoke, “Zecora this, Zecora that… true as part of you I too have feelings for that mare, however I can overlook them, even to a point of killing you and nullifying these feelings once and for all.”
The dark changeling drew closer to Zeil at the same time as Zeil approached the shield as he quickly grabbed the shield and held it in front of him in an attempt to block whatever attack was coming next. However the dark changeling didn’t attack, instead he used his left hoof to reach across his body grabbing the right side of the shield as he pushed forward hitting Zeil with its edge before flinging it across as the round edge of the metal domelike shield left a deep cut on Zeil’s face before flying away from them both. As Zeil found himself once again unarmed, the dark changeling punched him in the face with the same hoof used to disarm him as Zeil’s head was thrown to the ground. Stunned and beaten, Zeil laid on the ground as the changeling looked at him in disgust, “This is beyond embarrassing… to think that one as weak as you could possibly challenge me. I don’t know what he was thinking choosing you… but it was obviously a mistake.”

With blood running from his new wound and around his left eye, Zeil looked back as he replied, “Who? And… chose me for what?... what are you talking about?”
The Changeling sighed, “Don’t give me that… you know perfectly well who chose you...” His look became curious, “Don’t you?...”
Zeil didn’t reply, instead he just gave his foe a clueless look as he slowly shook his head in confusion. After seeing this, the dark creature became surprised, “Wait… you mean… you weren’t chosen?”
Still without a response Zeil stared at the dark changeling as he stepped back and began thinking to himself, “You weren’t chosen… how… how is this possible. I have never appeared in one who wasn’t chosen… it… it must be a mistake… or…”
The evil creature looked at Zeil in anger as he replied, “Or you aren’t worthy…”

Not sure what he was talking about Zeil continued to look at his foe as the dark creature continued, “That’s it then isn’t it… you were never chosen, so you obviously aren’t worthy… in which case…” his look turned sinister, “You must be removed.”
With the evil look on his face the dark changeling stepped closer as Zeil tried to back up as fast as he could but it was no use. With no way to stand and run, the dark changeling approached Zeil and with his first action, stepped on Zeil’s injured hoof as he pressed down on the spear’s blade stretching his wound and sending a surge of unbearable pain through his body. Screaming in pain, Zeil stopped trying to back away as the dark changeling then punched him in his face as the impact alone knocked his head into the mud beneath him. As Zeil tried to lift his head out of the mud he soon found it back in as the dark creature started hitting him over and over on his face, while alternating which side of his muzzle to hit as the now immobilized changeling felt the full anger that was this evil creature. With no way to free himself, and the mud on his face turning red from his own blood, Zeil could only lay and endure the pain of each hit until finally the creature stopped and allowed Zeil to lay flat on the ground.

Stunned, and barely able to move or see, Zeil opened his eyes and looked to his foe as the changeling sighed, “I wanted you to suffer a little longer… but I suppose it’s not your fault you were never chosen… so I'll just end it now.”
With that the dark changeling raised his hoof to the side as a spear materialized from the black liquid like it did before as the evil creature grabbed it and reared it back, “It’s nothing personal… but if you are allowed to live, then this world may be in more danger then you know. If you have any last words… please speak them now.”
Feeling that this was truly his end, Zeil slowly closed his eyes as he spoke, “I’m sorry Zecora… I… I love you.”
Seeing the nobility in his last words, the dark changeling sighed, “Too bad she isn’t here to hear that. Then again, it’s best she not see this… Good bye Zeil of the Black Sand.”
As the dark changeling raised the spear high in the air, Zeil decided to do as the wise old ibex suggested. He started thinking about the most peaceful moment of his life.

With his eyes still closed, Zeil started to see it clearly. The view of the entire Everfree forest all the way to Canterlot in the distance, the stares lighting up the sky above, then the most beautiful mare he knew, standing in the edge of the cliff as the soft shade of fireflies glowed around her as she looked his direction with her beautiful blue eyes and smiled. Seeing Zecora in his mind Zeil started to smile as he came to peace with himself for what he assumed was his last moments of life. However, soon the moment was broken as he heard the dark changeling speak, “What the?”
Confused, Zeil opened his eyes to see that the dark changeling was still standing over with his weapon reared back, but his focus wasn’t on Zeil at all, it was on the ground next to him. Confused, Zeil turned his head to see what had caused his foe to hesitate.

In the mud next to him was a strange lump under the mud moving around as an insect slowly climbed out of the muck then buzzed its wings to fling the grime from it. Confused, Zeil and his foe continued to watch the bug as it opened its wings, and started hovering in the air before giving off a faint yellowish glow. As the insect hovered in the air it flew close to the dark changeling as he focused on it and spoke in confusion, “A… a firefly?”
Confused the dark changeling lowered his spear down near Zeil as a number of fireflies started crawling out of the mud around them and started mimicking the actions of the first, by buzzing to clean their wings then by hovering in the air to join in on the glow they were emitting. As the dark changeling watched the swarm of fireflies that were harmlessly flying around them he started to smile, “Its… it’s just like…”
Without finishing his statement, the dark changeling continued watching the swarm as Zeil noticed his guard was dropped. Seeing the changeling’s spear lowered close to him, Zeil made a decision that he knew would take every ounce of strength he had left.

Moving Quickly and precisely, Zeil used his left hoof to grab the spear just below the blade, then with every ounce of strength he had, Zeil used his right hoof the hit the weak point just below the blade as the wooden spear shattered leaving the blade in his hoof like a dagger. With little energy left Zeil quickly turned the blade around and rolled himself to his right to help assist the blade’s movement as he rolled himself over burying the blade of the spear into the dark creature’s heart before the distracted changeling even knew what was happening. Once he felt the blade hit him, the dark changeling jumped back and landed with a short slid as he looked down at the wound he had just attained, then the foe who inflicted it. With his last attack completely rolling him on his right side, Zeil looked over his shoulder at his foe only to be surprised that the creature was still standing. Worried Zeil rolled back onto his back as he looked at his foe and spoke, “I… it… wasn’t enough?…”
The dark creature looked down at his wound as he spoke, “Interesting… using my own weapon against me and striking while my guard is down… a cheap move… but effective.” He looked around him as he continued, “And these fireflies… manifested from sheer thought… so… perhaps you were chosen after all… or, you will be.”
Zeil gave the changeling a confused look, “Wh-what?...”

With no reactions of pain or even discomfort, the dark changeling pulled the spear blade from his chest as he dropped it into the mud and replied, “That’s not important… what is important is what to do next.”
Terrified that the dark changeling seemed to feel no such pain from the blade that was in his chest, Zeil tried to back away, but with his body aching all over it was no use as he could only watch as the dark changeling approached him. Worried of what would happen next Zeil waited as the changeling grabbed his injured hind hoof, held it still, then pulled the blade from it. Feeling the blade as it shifted inside of his hoof, Zeil screamed as the dark changeling gave him a dull look, “What are you wining about?”
Confused, Zeil realized that the pain in his hoof had vanished as he looked down to see that the wound was gone, and his strength had returned.

Confused at the unusual events Zeil sat up as he felt his face and his entire body to find that not only was the wound on his hoof gone, but the cut on his face, and all his bumps and bruises were gone too. As he looked over his now missing wounds, the dark changeling sighed as he tossed the broken blade away, “This duel is over… I succeed.”
Zeil was shocked, “Wh-what?”
The dark changeling replied, “You beat me… fair and square. In my attempts to inflict harm I never laid a single fatal wound on you… but you… you stabbed me in the heart, quite accurately no less. So… if I were mortal, then I would be dead. Therefore, I give up. Since you win, I'll step aside and allow you to see Rafi.”
Zeil started to smile with relief, “Really? You mean y-“
“Don’t read into it…”
Silenced by the dark tone of the changeling, Zeil’s smile faded as the changeling continued, “I may have lost this duel… but that doesn’t mean I trust you. In my eyes you are still a coward and a weakling who is unworthy of my power… however… it is possible that you will one day be chosen for it… so until that day, I can only leave you be. However… if you challenge me again, weather you are chosen or not… I'll do everything in my power to kill you… understood?”

Feeling a little nervous of the threat Zeil nodded as he replied, “I understand, just know that I don’t want anything to do with you or your power… I only want to get back to Zecora. That’s all that’s left for me.”
Without any interest in his expression the dark changeling replied, “That choice is not your own. Whether you like it or not, my power must be held by you someday… otherwise I wouldn’t be here. But until that day comes… you better get stronger.”
With that threat, the dark changeling dissolved into ash as Zeil could only feel worry for the statement he had just heard. Shortly after the changeling vanished, the eclipse in the sky disappeared as the moon moved out of the sun’s path and vanished over the horizon as the sun shined onto the battlefield. After the sun came out, the mud quickly dried as grass started rapidly growing while the weapons and armor in the mud dissolved into rust. Seeing the field change as if time had fast forwarded into the future, Zeil looked around as a familiar voice spoke, “An interesting fight… though you may agree that luck had something to do with it.”

At that moment, Zeil turned around to see Chief Rafi sitting at the top of a hill as he studied the broken spear blade used to beat the dark changeling. Seeing his spiritual guide for the first time in a while, Zeil spoke, “Rafi! You’re here!”
Chief Rafi smiled as he tossed the blade aside, “But of course… you did beat Mara after all. And though he is truly evil… he is a creature of his word.”
Zeil was confused “Mara? Was that his name?”
Chief Rafi nodded, “He, or she depending on his host, has many names. In this part of the world he is known as Mara. But elsewhere, he is known by other names. Never the less, he is the truest personification of evil, darkness, and death that this world has to offer.”
“If he goes by a different name dependent on where we are… then what is he called in Equestria?”
Chief Rafi shook his head, “That is a question that I will not answer. Not until you’re ready. Till then… I'd suggest you ask away at your other questions.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”

Chief Rafi gave him a stern look, “You do have questions for me do you not? Well I’m here, so now is the time to ask them.”
Remembering his reasons for needing to see Rafi, Zeil nodded, “Oh right… well first I wanted to… um…”
As Zeil thought about his questions he found himself clueless on what to ask. The first question he wanted to know was already answered by the Ibex master back in the cave. Then the next was answered by Shangri-La later in the temple courtyard. Already knowing what Zeil was just now realizing, Chief Rafi smiled, “Some always mistake the need to ask a question as ignorance. Yet asking the question itself is wise, but understanding the answer… that is wisdom.”
Seeing the point, Zeil thought of a question as he asked, “Chief Rafi?... You know that you will always hold my trust… but I must ask… Did you know I would be transported back to the land of the Black Sand?”
Chief Rafi nodded, “I did… but I also knew you would stop it nothing to return to Zecora. Also… despite its costs, your future with Zecora depends on this journey.”
Zeil replied, “Its costs… You’re talking this recent fight right?”
Chief Rafi shook his head, “No… I’m speaking of your… sibling… Supersonic.”

Zeil’s expression became saddened as he and his guide shared a brief moment of silence before Chief Rafi expression became serious, “Life is a precious thing… to hold one is special, but to lose it is tragic. It is the one thing that cannot be weighed in gold, but others will tend to see through its value. And once lost… it can never be returned, at least not in most cases. I will not agree that your brother died for a pointless cause… but, I won’t say it was for a purpose and waste it so heartlessly. Your brother chose his path, and in doing so… he risked everything for you… his life, his home, and his integrity. Though he died, his death is only in vein if you allow it to be.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “So… if I complete my goal, then it won’t be pointless?”
Chief Rafi looked into the distance, “That is a question you must ask yourself, perhaps you should meditate on it.”
Zeil thought about Chief Rafi’s words, “You said that a life can’t be returned in most cases… Does this me-”
Chief Rafi’s eyes shifted to Zeil as he interrupted while staring daggers, “This is a matter that we will not discussed… not now… not ever.”
Feeling that he was being pushed aside, Zeil asked, “So… there is a way to bring him back?”
Chief Rafi’s expression became angry, “We will not speak of this… and you will stop pressing this matter understand!”
“Bu-“
“I SAID ENOUGH!!!”

Nervous, by the dark glare that Chief Rafi was giving him, Zeil decided to stop talking as Chief Rafi spoke with an angry tone, “When one dies they are dead… that’s it… you have one life, so hold it dear for once it end… its over!”
Feeling like a foal who was scolded by his parent, Zeil changed the subject as he asked, “Mara… he said he was immortal… is that true?”
Chief Rafi’s appearance started to vanish as he replied, “Yes… but we can discuss this when your stronger… till then. Travel west… Cross the mountains and plains. When time comes, you will meet with one who can tell you more… but until then… Stay alive Sir Zeil of the Black Sand.”

All of a sudden the vision vanished, as Zeil opened his eyes as he found himself laying on a futon while he could only see two blurry figures hovering over him, one was tall and grey, while the other was shorter and blue. With a loud ring being the only sounds he can hear and his body feeling weak move, Zeil looked around as the foggy figures moved around over him as his hearing slowly returned to the sound of the shorter figure as it spoke with a mare’s voice, “He’s awake!... Zeil?... Zeil can you hear me?...” the figure looked at the other as the unknown voice continued, “Go get Shangri-La tell him to come to Zeil’s room at once.”
The other figure looked at the first as another female voice replied, “Yes Sensei.”

Though the second voice was more familiar then the first, Zeil still couldn’t identify who was talking as the grey figure left the room, leaving the first to look back as she spoke again, “Zeil… are you alright? Can you hear me?”
With a massive headache Zeil replied, “Yea… I can… wait... Who are you?”
The figure replied, “It’s alright… it’s me, Serenity.”
Zeil rubbed his head, “Serenity?... You’re talking?... what’s going on… why am I sore all over… and… why can’t I see clearly?”
Serenity replied, “Well… you’ve been incased in a cocoon for a while so… maybe you’re sore from being in the same position for…” she hesitated, “So long.”

Not catching her hesitation Zeil replied as his vision started slowly going back to normal, “Okay… but… wait… Serenity?... what about your vow? Did it end already?
Serenity nodded, “Yes… my vow ended… um… not long ago.”
Zeil rubbed his eyes as he continued asking questions, “Okay, that explains that and my soreness… but what about my eyes… why is it hard to see?”
Serenity replied, “Well, maybe it’s because you haven’t used them in a while… or not at all in this form.”
Continuing to rub his eyes Zeil started to ask, “This form?... what are you talking abou-”
All of a sudden, Zeil silenced himself as he looked at his hooves in surprise. His senses told him he was in his changing form, but his hooves weren’t black, nor did they have any holes to see through, they were a dull cyan. Realizing what was going on, Zeil looked to a large stand up mirror in the corner of the room as he rolled over and tried to stand to trot to it, however as soon as he applied pressure to his hooves, they all gave way as Zeil could only pick himself up about a foot before falling back down.

Worried Serenity helped him up, “Zeil! Slow down… you need to wait till you get your strength back before standing.”
Zeil continued looking towards the mirror as he replied, “I need to see… help me there.”
Nodding at his request, Serenity helped Zeil to the mirror as she stopped him in front of the glass furniture then after confirming he could stand on his own, Serenity stepped away from him so he could see himself clearly. Though his sight still wasn’t entirely clear, Zeil still could see himself as he felt surprised at what the mirror showed him. His whole body which used to be purely cobalt, was now a mix of cyan, and grey as he carefully turned his body to look at himself more. His eyes which were once a pail green had now become a darker shade of green that resembled an emerald. His changeling horn hadn’t changed much, however now it was joined by two large claw like horns that seems to resemble either a crown or a stag beetle’s tusks. His wings were still gone and the scares still remained, however now they sat under the shell like abdomen on his back that was once a forest green, but now was a dark blue and midnight purple. His ability to sense the aura of others was still present only now the feeling seemed to be coming from his chest were there were now three gemlike orbs protruding from it. And to top it all off, he was now almost two and a half feet taller than before, counting his two beetle like horns that alone seemed to be a foot long.

Seeing his new self made Zeil unsure as he gave the appearance a strange look. Seeing this Serenity asked, “What’s wrong? You don’t like the way you are now?”
Zeil shook his head, “No, it’s neat… in its own way… it’s just… unexpected.”
Serenity smiled, “Not to worry, I’m sure you will get used to it in time… if anything you can always change yourself into something else.”
Zeil smiled, “Yea, that is tru-”
Before he could finish, the rooms sliding door opened as a cold gust of wind entered through as Shangri-La entered before closing it behind him. As he saw his changeling friend Zeil smiled, “Shangri-La, it’s good to se- wait…”
At that moment Zeil silenced himself as he studded Shangri-La’s appearance in comparison to his own. Although the fact that they were two separate colors didn’t concern him, Zeil found it strange that Shangri-La was much shorter then him and didn’t have any horns on his head other than the one he had as a normal changeling. Confused Zeil asked, “Why… are you different from me?”
Shangri-La smiled, “Well isn’t it obvious? You’re a drone. In this form you’re more likely to be seen as a leader then a normal changeling so, it’s natural for you to be taller and more dominant then me.”

Zeil looked at his hoof, “I guess, it makes sense but…”
Shangri-La smiled, “Who are we to question nature right? Just go with it… it’s not that big a deal right?”
Zeil looked back and smiled, “Your right… I should just li-”
All of a sudden the sliding door opened again as Charra entered through the doorway and closed it behind her. When Zeil noticed the familiar foe, he quickly braced himself for a fight as he yelled, “YOU!”
Seeing his stance, Charra took a few steps back as she bowed in an apologetic way, “Wait… I’m not an enemy anymore. I’m not here to fight nor will I ever… I can’t make up for what I did back then, but please forgive my arrogance and selfishness. I was following a bad path and found myself more lost then before. Please forgive me.”

With no change in his stance, Zeil glared at Charra as Shangri-La spoke, “It’s alright Zeil, Charra is back on our side. You know a lot has change while you were out. She’s and I are now both disciples under Serenity so there in nothing to fear from her.”
Zeil was surprised, “Wait a second… Disciple under Serenity?...” Zeil turned to Serenity and spoke with a serious tone, “Hey… you mentioned something about not moving for a while didn’t you?... how long was I, not moving?”
Serenity tried to stall, “We had to move you here so you could be monitored, we didn’t know ho-”
Zeil gave her a serious look as he interrupted, “Serenity… how long was I gone? How long since the day that we entered the cave?”
Knowing there was no more stalling, Serenity sighed, “Charra… became a disciple last month…”
Zeil was surprised as Serenity continued, “Shangri-La became a disciple, about three months ago.”
Zeil’s expression showed shock as she spoke on, “I became Sensei four months ago.
Zeil sat down in shock but it didn’t end there, “Sensei… died… five months ago… one month after you encased yourself in that cocoon.”

Zeil was speechless, he didn’t realize time was passing by so quickly while he was fighting Mara, but he couldn’t believe it so simply so he decided to prove it to himself. Frustrated, Zeil stood back up and stumbled to the sliding door as he grabbed the door and flung it open only to reveal his worries were true. As the door opened, a gust of cold wind entered the room as Zeil found himself looking over the training ground in the center of the temple, only now it was covered in snow. Sitting down in shock Zeil mumbled, “It…it was late summer when I started meditating… now… now…”
Serenity spoke, “Its late winter… Spring should be here in a few weeks. You’ve been in that cocoon for six months.”
Zeil shook his head, “Zecora has been waiting almost a year… will… she even remember me when I arrive?”
Seeing his doubt, Serenity sighed, “You said once… that if her feelings for you were as strong as yours were for her… then she will never forget.”

Zeil looked at the now wise master of the temple as she continued, “I couldn’t say it back then because of my vow… but that had to be the wisest thing I’ve ever heard you say. I even sat and pondered its meaning to a deeper state… and it still rings true. Love binds us and makes us feel as if the world didn’t matter anymore. That only you and her were all that was needed to survive. I know this feeling… I was once in love too… but when my husband passed… I thought my world had ended with him. So I journeyed as far as I could in hopes of escaping the pain, but it wasn’t till I arrived here that I found a greater calling. Now as my spiritual guide he is always with me … just as you should be with Zecora.”
Smiling at here uplifting words, Zeil replied, “Your right… it doesn’t matter how much time has passed. I have to keep going… I have to get back to her.” He looked at the snow outside, “Sorry Sensei… Taking all this in at once just… caused me to lose hope for a few seconds. I’m better now.”

Serenity nodded as she replied, “You should never let spur emotions control your next move… it can lead to carelessness and eventually defeat. Either way… there is no need to refer to me as sensei, but… you’re not my student. You graduated from that position when you awoke mere moments ago. You are now a master of this sacred shrine, and our Sensei’s last student.”
Zeil smiled, “Oh, really? Wait… what does that mean?”
Serenity smiled, “Well… if you stay you can become my disciple or a teacher for the lost ones. But… I’m sure that’s not what you intend to do.”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I need to leave… as soon as possible.”
Serenity nodded, “Very well, I'll have a bag ready for you in the morning.”
Zeil gave her a confused look, “Morning?”
Serenity nodded, “Of course… you need at least the night to rest and gather your strength.” She turned away and trotted out of the room as she continued, “You’ve been gone for a long time Zeil… I wouldn’t want you to fall on your first hill then freeze to death in the snow. So be sure to rest for the night… and dream sweet dreams… of Zecora and the fireflies.”

With nothing more to say to him, Serenity continued through the temple away from Zeil as he mumbled, “Fireflies?... wait… did she see into my vision while I was out?”
Charra nodded as she replied, “Probably, she was chosen to be the Sensei of the temple. Maybe it’s an ability she has.”
Zeil felt a little impresses until Shangri-La spoke next, “No… She just overheard Zeil mention it to Sensei right before he became a cocoon.”
Zeil felt a little embarrassed as Charra nodded, “Ah that makes sense.”
Zeil rubbed his head as he turned back to the only monks left in the room however as his eyes met with Charra, the nervous dragon quickly bowed in an apologetic way “Oh um… I’m sorry! About what happened a while back?… I swear I didn’t in-”

Zeil quickly waved his hoof in a dismissive way, “Easy now… I’m not looking for revenge or anything. The way I see it, what’s done is done. As long as it remains the past, it’s passed.”
Charra rose from her bow as she smiled in relief, “I’m glad, I was worried you would be a little sore after what happened all those years ago.”
Zeil was shocked, “YEARS!”
Charra chuckled, “I’m kidding I’m kidding, it was only six months, no longer.”
Zeil sighed with relief before giving her a dull look, “Wow… your jokes are just as bad as Rafi’s.”
Shangri-La smiled, “You can’t blame her for trying to relieve the tension. It has been a while since anyone has seen you. And I’m sure with how much time has passed, your probably have a lot on your mind as is.”

Zeil nodded as he closed the sliding door and stumbled to his futon on the floor, “Yea… your right about that. Anyways… Since it has been so long… could I trouble you with a quick refresher on what’s happened since I’ve been gone? I’m a little curious of how the temple has changed since Serenity took over.”
Shangri-La nodded, “That’s fine, I also need to tell you a few things about your reformed body that you don’t know yet. For example, we can still feel emotions and aura from others, but now we don’t need to feed on emotions at all, while other foods have more flavor too.”
Zeil was intrigued as he sat down, “Really? Go on…”

With that the three carried on in a conversation that helped Zeil catch up on recent events and what his newfound form holds. The next morning, Zeil in his zebra form left the room he was in and entered the snow covered courtyard to see most of the temples monks had already woken and were waiting for him. As Zeil entered the herd, the congregation parted clearing a path to the main gate as Zeil could see Shangri-La, Charra, and Serenity waiting at the temple’s main archway. As he approached, Shangri-La spoke first as he smiled, “A zebra… not showing off your true form?”
Zeil smiled, “This is my true form. You helped me to see that.”
Shangri-La nodded, “Just so you know, I would gladly follow a king like you. If you ever decide to start a swarm, feel free to look me up.”
Zeil smiled, “Sure, just don’t expect it… I don’t intend on starting a swarm at all.”

Charra stepped forward as she held out a saddlebag, “Zeil… I know nothing I can say will make up for what I did to you back when… but… I did my best to recreate all the items we took from you, and then some. So here… for your journey. I wish you luck in your travels.”
Zeil took the saddlebag as he looked into it and smiled before looking back, “Thank you Charra, we may have started off on the wrong hoof, but, in any other circumstance, I think we would have been good friend too.”
Holding out his hoof, Zeil smiled as Charra nodded before balling up her claw and fist bumping his hoof, “Yea, I think so too.”
Zeil looked over at Serenity as she held out a brown cloak to him, “Here… for your journey.”
Zeil put on the saddlebag then took the cloak and tied it around his neck as he put the hood up and looked at himself to measure its size as he smiled, “Wow… perfect fit, I don’t even have to make myself taller or shorter for it to fit.”
Serenity smiled, “It may have been a number of months ago, but I’m a student that remembers every detail about a fellow student of our sensei.”
Zeil put the hood down as he smiled, “Thank you Serenity, I’m happy I was able to meet you.” he looked around, “And all of you! You helped me in ways I never thought possible, and for that you all have my thanks.”

All the monks in the temple smiled at the thanks as Serenity replied, “No need for thanks, the purpose for our temple is to take in all who are lost and help them find their way. Whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual, we assist all lost ones in the hopes that they too will assist others.”
Zeil smiled, “Then I'll do my best to help those I can.”
Serenity shook her head, “No… that is not your fate. Your fate is to return to your lover, and when the time comes, harness the spirit within you. Or at least that is what Sensei said to me before he passed.”
Zeil’s expression became serious, “Serenity… did sensei ever tell you what this spirit within me truly was?”
She shook her head, “He did not… All he said to me, was that some mysteries in this world are better left that. Mysteries. If everything can be explained, then there is no joy of discovery.”
Zeil looked at his hoof, “I’m just worried… what if one day… it…”

Zeil went silent as dark thought of impending danger fell onto his mind as Serenity saw his worry and placed her hoof on his shoulder, “You are you… and nothing more. As long as you remember that and keep your focus on keeping it that way, that darkness within you will never take control to harm others.”
Zeil felt a little doubt as he replied, “But… what if I can’t?”
Serenity removed her hoof as she thought to herself, “Hmm… Well… you could always take a vow.”
“A vow?”
She smiled, “Yes, not like silence, but something to better keep your focus on who you are and not what that creature wants you to be.”
Zeil thought to himself for a few seconds as he started to smiled, “I think… I have the perfect one.”

An hour later Zeil found his way into the bamboo valley where he first met Serenity as he traversed the bamboo thicket until finally reaching the main road through the valley. After reaching the road Zeil looked towards the west as he spoke, “Alright now back to my jou…”
As Zeil silenced himself as he looked up the trail, and saw a familiar group of bandits traveling towards him with almost the same attendance as last time. Two minotaur, one griffin and the leading earth pony, the only difference was that Charra wasn’t with them anymore. Seeing the group who didn’t notice him yet, Zeil sighed as he put the hood on his cloak up and mumbled to himself, “Well… I guess I’ll have to settle this.”
Annoyed that he had no choice, Zeil started trotting down the trail towards his approaching threat. As soon as the group saw him they stopped as the leader smiled, “Well, well, look what we have here. I don’t know what rock you’ve been hiding under but I didn’t think I’d ever see you again changeling.”
With the rest of the group stopped, the leader stepped forward separating himself from them as Zeil continued trotting towards them as he replied, “Well, I'd like to play but I’m in a hurry so…”

Acting as if he were going to trot completely by them, Zeil continued as the earth pony stepped in front of Zeil stopping him, “Not so fast… you should remember that this road has a toll, so why don’t you hand over your saddlebag and save us the trouble. Wouldn’t want a repeat of last time would we?”
Zeil stopped as he replied with an unamused tone, “I would… but I made a vow to myself that I intend to keep… and… I don’t see anything intimidating about your group… especially since Charra isn’t with you anymore.”
Annoyed with his comment, the earth pony gave Zeil an angry look, “A vow… so that’s where you’ve been for all this time. Sitting at the temple with Serenity and her monks, right? You’ll find that Charra’s strength isn’t something we rely on… so if you made a vow to not fight, then you need to just give up now… before something bad happens.”
Zeil’s expression seemed emotionless as he replied, “How bad are we talking?”

Annoyed, the earth pony took a step back as he whistled loudly to his group as one of the minotaurs heard the signal and tossed his spear to his leader. Turning for a split second, the leading earth pony caught the spear as he started to turn back to reply, “I’m talking ab… what?”
As he turned back to his target, the earth pony stopped talking when he saw that Zeil wasn’t standing where he was moments ago as the confused earth pony looked around, “Wh-where?...”
All of a sudden a voice came from behind him as Zeil replied while casually trotting away, “If your reaction time is this slow… then it won’t be that bad.”
The earth pony turned to Zeil in surprise, it had only been a split second, but Zeil was able to sneak by him and trot a few feet away without him seeing or even hearing him do so. Annoyed the earth pony glared as his foe as he raised the spear and replied, “Fine… then I'll end you QUICK!!!”

With the spear raised, the angry earth pony charged at Zeil as the disguised changeling continued trotting away with no reaction until the spear’s blade was less than an inch from the back of his head. With the spear now in lethal rang, Zeil only shifted his head slightly to his left as the blade glanced over his shoulder as Zeil stopped trotting and grabbed the spear by its blade. With the enemy’s weapon firmly held, Zeil used his shoulder as a fulcrum and the spear as a lever as he picked up the earth pony and flung him over his shoulder before slamming the bandit against the ground in front of him. As soon as the earth pony hit the ground, Zeil continued holding the spear as he hit and shattered the shaft before pinning the stallion to the ground and raising the blade up like a dagger before bringing it down as if to kill his foe. Seeing this, the rest of the group stepped forward in reaction to help their leader, but paused when they saw that the blade wasn’t brought down on into their boss’s body, but instead it was imbedded in the ground next to his head, close enough to leave a cut on his cheek.

Still stunned and shocked from what happened, the Earth pony looked up at Zeil as he spoke, “Wha… but… your vow?”
A combination of the bamboo canopy above, the overcast in the sky and his cloak casted a dark shadow over Zeil’s body as he glared down at his enemy and spoke with a dark tone, “My vow… is to never kill anypony until my journey ends… but if you knew what you were capable of surviving… you’d fear death a lot less.”
With the hood of his cloak casting and even darker shadow over the changeling’s face, a terrifying fear swept through the earth pony’s mind. He didn’t understand what it was, but with the changeling’s gaze glaring into his soul, the earth pony felt as if he were prey, caught in the fangs of a predator with only death to look forward to. But rather then carrying out this expectation, Zeil released the spear’s blade leaving it in the ground as he stepped over the earth pony and continued on the trail. As he continued the rest of the sullen one’s stepped into his path as the griffin started to speak, “Where do you think your go-“
“STEP ASIDE!!!”
Surprised by their leader’s order, the group looked at the earth pony as he picked himself up and repeated, “Let him through! Don’t pick a fight, just let him go!”

Confused with the worry in their leader’s voice, the group looked at each other before stepping out of the way as the zebra disguised changeling passed and mumbled, “Thank you…”
As Zeil passed the team, the sky started lightly dropping snow in the area as the relieved earth pony looked at the ground with his face still in shock. Worried the rest of the sullen one’s quickly surrounded him as the griffin tried to help him up, “Boss… are you alright? Why did you let him go like this?”
One of the Minotaur spoke, “Just say the word and we can strike him down wit-”
“You will do no such thing!”
The team silenced themselves as the leader looked at the changeling that was still trotting away from them, “He’s been training at the temple… so he is much stronger then before… but that’s not the worst part. He found his peace… but it’s like the peace attained from death… it’s something you don’t want… ever. I don’t know why they would train such evil within the wall of that place… but that changeling has the gaze of death in his eyes. I don’t even think he is a changeling at all. Whatever he is… we are much safer with him gone. I only hope… he keeps to his vow, and his journey is long. Cuz once it’s done, there is no telling how many will suffer under his hoof.”

Author's Note

Zeil's New Form: Link

Bk3/Ch1 Angel of the Mountain

Book 3
Angel of the Mountain
Chapter 1
Year 00, Month 11, Day 04

The cold wind blew across the frozen landscape as Zeil tried all he could to look through the surrounding blizzard for the trail that he assumed he was traveling on. With the road covered in snow and the blizzard too thick to see through, Zeil felt nervous as he mumbled, “I need to find the road… or at least shelter… it’s too cold to survive out he-”
As Zeil looked into the distance, he could see a very faint but visible light through the blizzard as he smiled, “There, I hope it’s someplace welcoming… I can’t risk being turned away.”
With haste, Zeil made his way towards the light while trying to watch his steps through the snow covered path.
A few minutes later Zeil finally approached the building as he trotted to the door and looked at the sign, “The Yak Shack Inn… clever name.”
With that Zeil placed his hoof on the doorknob as he turned to let himself in.

Inside the tavern, ponies, yaks, ibex and griffin enjoyed their drinks as they all enjoyed the warmth of the tavern’s massive fire place. All of a sudden the door to the tavern flew open as Zeil quickly entered as he used his strength to fight the wind and push the door closed again. As soon as the door was shut, Zeil turned to the rest of the tavern as he put his hood down and started making his way towards the bar. As Zeil traveled towards the bar, most of the room simply ignored him, however a small group of ponies in the corner of the room continued their conversation until one of them, an earth pony with a tan coat, a short brown mane, and a brown slouch hat spoke, “Get a load of this bloke…”
As the group looked at Zeil the leading pony continue, “What’s he all about?”
Another earth pony, a brown stallion with a green mane replied, “He is a zebra… a native to my homeland. They are dominate race in the country, though one would wonder what brought him out here. A thirst for adventure perhaps?”

The tan earth pony nodded as he replied, “too right… that’s what brought us out here.” He looked at the only mare in the group, “what do you think Angel?”
Angel, a solid white pegasus with a white long mane and blue eyes didn’t reply, instead she continued giving the disguised changing a confused look as the lead pony looked at her, “Angel?”
Realizing her silence, Angel replied, “Sorry… I was lost in thought.”
A different earth pony with a grey coat and black mane spoke next, “do you know him Miss Angel?”
Angel shook her head, “no… but… something about him seems… off… no… just my imagination I guess.”
Disregarding the subject the group of six ponies went back to a previous topic as Zeil continued through the tavern to the bar to speak with the bartender.

As Zeil reached the bar he looked at the bartender as the yak behind the counter saw him and spoke, “striped pony looks funny… ha ha… like pony wearing pajamas.”
Zeil gave the bartender a dull look as he spoke, “…funny… can I ask you something? Does this road go all the ways through the mountains? I’m trying to get to the plains in the eastern portion of the Ursa Lands.”
The Yak nodded, “Striped pony is going right way to the land of bears… but striped pony won’t make it.”
Zeil was confused, “What? Why not?”
The yack replied, “Snowfall covers road. Valley full of snow and now too high to travel. Striped pony must wait till snow melts to travel though.”
Zeil replied, “Okay… so how long do I have to wait?”

The yak thought to himself, “Hmm… usually it would take fastest yak to travel road through mountain in one day. But snow will make the travel three weeks. Striped pony must wait till the snow melts, two weeks maybe.”
Zeil didn’t like the answer, “I can’t wait two weeks. Is there any other pass I can take?”
The yak shook his head, “no… no other roads through mountains, striped pony can only wait two weeks. But yak isn’t heartless. Yak will give striped pony a discount on a room till then.”
Annoyed but appreciative of the offer, Zeil sighed as he tried to reply politely, “Thanks but I'll wait before taking that offer. Could you get me something warm to drink? Tea, cocoa, I'll even take plain hot water if you have it.”
The yak behind the bar nodded, “okay, yak get you warm water.”

The yak poured Zeil a hot mug of water as Zeil took the cup and trotted to an empty table to drink. As he sat down, Zeil reached into his saddlebag and pulled out a vial of tea leaves that he had gotten from Shangri-La a few days ago as he put some into his drink before slowly mixing it in. Meanwhile at the table of ponies, the tan stallion was still curious of Zeil as he watched him while the rest of the table had already gone back to their previous subject. Thinking this was a good time to introduce himself the tan stallion turned to his table and spoke, “Excuse me a sec, I’ll be right back.”
With that the tan stallion stood up from his table and trotted over to Zeil’s table. Although Zeil was mixing the tea and pondering his next move, he still sensed the aura of the approaching earth pony as he slowed his movements while waiting for what the approaching stranger will do.

As the tan stallion approached, he smiled, “G’day mate, couldn’t help but overhear the problem you’re facing. Ya mind if I offer a solution?”
Although he was interested in what the stallion was saying, Zeil didn’t drop his guards for a second as he replied, “If you must…”
The tan stallion gestured to the table he was sitting at as he replied, “Ya see, my mates and I are also intending on crossing the mountains. And if all goes well, we aim to get to the other side in about five days, four if weather’s kind to use.”
Zeil was curious, “You know of a path through the mountains?”
The tan stallion shook his head, “Not through, Over. My team and I are a group of mountain climbers. We aim to reach the summit of Angela’s peak then cross over to the other side. It should be a simple climb, though it will be a first for all of us on this particular mountain.”

Zeil felt skeptic, “So… this should be a shorter path then going through the snow covered pass?”
The Tan stallion nodded, “It should, ain’t you ever heard that the shortest distance between two places is a straight line?”
Zeil nodded, “Parts is the word you’re looking for… but if it will get me there as fast as I can… I’m willing to take it.”
The tan stallion smiled, “Good to hear, but I do need to warn ya. This mountain won’t be a stroll through the field. She ain’t the tallest, or the most traitorous, but Angela’s Peak is a mountain with a sort of reputation.”
Zeil was confused, “reputation? How so?”
The tan stallion replied, “Well, rumor has it. This mountain chooses whose worthy of reaching the summit. Even climbers with reputations as the best have failed to reach this peak. So… if ya feel you ain’t up to it, tell me now.”

Zeil looked the stallion with a serious expression, “do you think you can make there? To the peak then across in a short time?”
The tan stallion smiled confidently, “Easy mate, I ain’t no spring chicken but I’m far from a yank. This little rock pile ain’t anything compared to the mountains I’ve climbed. I'll see to it that you get there and beyond with no trouble at all. Unless you’re willin’ to wait till the snow melts.”
Seeing the confidence that the stallion had in his skills was enough, as Zeil nodded, “Then I'll go with you. I have to get to the plains, my journey is too fare to wait till the snow melts.”
The tan stallion smiled at Zeil’s determination as he replied, “Too right… then let’s go meet my team.”

With that the tan stallion turned towards the table he had just come from as Zeil stood up and took his drink with him as they trotted to the group of five ponies that were part of the tan stallion’s team. When they got there, the group looked at Zeil as the tan stallion spoke, “Let me introduce the team. First off.” He gestured to the tallest stallion in the group, an earth pony with a silver coat, and a short white mane. “This here is Everest. Don’t let his size fool ya, he looks tough and scary but he’s a softie at heart.”
Everest gave him an annoyed look, “Hey!... Rude!...”
The tan stallion gestured to the earth pony with a dark grey coat and a short black mane, “and this here is Fuji. A friendly sort, kinda new to the group so mind the hard to understand accent.”
Fuji bowed slightly as he spoke, “Kon'nichiwa. Hajimemashite.”
Knowing the greeting, Zeil bowed slightly, “Hello, it’s a pleasure to meet you too.”
Fuji was surprised, “you know my language?”

Zeil nodded, “I recently left a temple about five days to the east and picked up some understanding of it… though I may not be able to hold a full conversation, I still know the most common and respectable greetings.”
The tan stallion smiled, “good, you can translate some of that gobbldy gook that he speaks when he’s in a bad mood.”
Fuji gave the stallion an angry look as he sighed, “Baka…”
Waiting for a translation the tan stallion looked at Zeil as he lied, “he said… um… friend.”
Fuji smiled at the lie as the tan stallion replied, “Oh… that explains why he calls me that often. Anyways next up,” he gestured to the next stallion, the earth pony with a brown coat and a green mane. “We have Kilomankaro… or Kilomandara… um… what was it again mate?”

The brown stallion sighed in hopelessness, “its Kilimanjaro.”
The tan stallion smiled, “Right, that was it. We just call him Kiloman for short. Saves us the trouble.”
Kiloman smiled, “So… which tribe do you hail from friend?”
At first Zeil was confused but when he realized he was referring to his zebra appearance, Zeil replied, “oh… um… I’m not from any tribe… I wasn’t born in Zebrica.”
Kiloman was surprised, “Really?... I myself am a native to the eastern tribe, though you would guess by my species I wasn’t born in Zebrica but I’m happy to call it my home.”
Zeil was surprised, “oh… that’s interesting, you’ll have to tell me about it sometime.”
Pushing the introduction along the tan stallion spoke, “Anyways… next,” he gestured to the last stallion in the group, another earth pony with a dull blue coat and a grey mane. “We have our only yank. M-”

Before the tan stallion could finish the earth pony sighed, “I told ya I ain’t a yank. I may be from Equestria but I’m from the countryside.” He decided to introduce himself as he looked at Zeil and smiled, “The name’s Pete… first name Pike. Nice to meet ya.”
Zeil was surprised, “Wait… you’re from Equestria?”
Pike nodded, “Sure am… you ever been there before?”
Zeil nodded, “yea, I’m actually trying to get back there.”
Pike smiled, “Really, well you’re a long ways from it, but in a sense so am I.”
The tan stallion gestured to the only mare in the group, “next we ha-“
Angel interrupted with an annoyed sigh, “Hotham… what’s this about? Who is this guy and why are you introducing him to us?”

Hotham sighed hopelessly, “Now now Angel, no need to fuss. I’m just introducing our new friend to the group since he’s going to be traveling with us in the morning.”
Angel was surprised as she stood up, “What!?!”
Hotham tried to calm her down, “Easy now, no need to make a scene. He just needs to cross the mountain range and going over the peak seems to be the easiest wa-”
“Like heck it is! Can we even trust this guy?”
Hotham smiled, “Well he seems to be on the up and up. Sides, this bloke seems to have his head on straight, so he shouldn’t slow us down any.”
Angel tried to argue, “That’s not the point! The point is I can’t see his fa-” Stopping herself from finishing her sentence, Angel hid her expression as she looked down and spoke, “I just don’t know about this… do you even know his name?”

Hotham looked at Zeil and replied, “I was gonna let him introduce himself once we were done but I guess now’s as good a time as any.”
Nodding to the reply, Zeil spoke, “my name is Zeil… I may not be a climber, but I have a long journey to make. And… I’m willing to go through anything to finish it.”
Hotham smiled as he looked back to Angel, “there, ya see. He won’t be a problem. He just needs to get to the other side to the mountain and I decided to help the bloke out.”
Still standing, Angel looked at the rest of the table, “And you all are okay with this? For all we know he will just weigh us down!”
The group didn’t want to admit it but they all seemed to be unanimous in agreeing with Hotham as Everest replied, “Now now Miss Angel, it’s true we do not know this zebra, but he seems to be a trustworthy fellow. I say we let him tag along.”
Fuji nodded as he looked at Zeil and spoke, “Mr. Zeil… you say you stayed at a monk temple… did you train under the temple’s sensei?”
Zeil nodded, “I did actually, yes.”
“And by you being here, you are now a temple master correct?”
“Yes…”

Fuji looked back at Angel as he replied, “that’s all I need to hear to make my decision. The temple monks are some of the wisest beings in the world. And their sensei wouldn’t train any random pony from nowhere. He would only choose students of great promise, nobility, and loyalty. So if Mr… no Master Zeil was trained by a temple sensei, then he certainly has my trust.”
The rest of the group looked at each other and nodded in agreement as Hotham spoke for the rest, “Then it’s settled. Zeil is now a member of our group and will now join us in our trip to the summit of Angela’s Peak.” He looked at Angel and continued, “Sorry, Angel but its unanimous.”
Angry, Angel rolled her eyes as she turned and trotted away, “Fine… do what you want… just don’t blame me if he causes us to fall off the mountain...” she sighed in anger, “I’m going to bed.”

As Angel trotted off in obvious anger, Zeil felt something strange about her. Her pegasus aura was there, but along with that aura Zeil should have been able to feel her emotions. But despite her angry expression, Zeil couldn’t feel any emotion emitting from the mare at all. It was as if he could see steam, but felt no heat when trotting through it. As Zeil watched the angry mare trot off, Hotham apologized, “Sorry about her Zeil, but despite her name, Angel can be… less then angelic at times. She don’t mean any harm though. Angel just has a particular way of doing things. That and… she hates surprises.”
Pike nodded as he replied, “Yea… and inviting a random zebra to join us in this climb is quite the surprise.”
Zeil looked down in an apologetic way, “I’m sorry if I said something wrong. I only…”
Everest spoke, “Don’t fret Master Zeil, it’s not your fault. We just recently got here and we’ve traveled a long way to get here, so perhaps she is just tired.”
Kiloman nodded, “Yes, this trip has taken a toll on both our bodies and minds. I think that after a good night’s rest she will be more warming to you in the morning.”

Hotham nodded as he replied, “Angel has always been a little rough around the edges, but ever since we were foals, it’s that rough exterior that I’ve admired most.”
As Zeil looked at Hotham, he started to feel a familiar emotion from him as Zeil smiled, “you’re in love with her aren’t you?”
Hotham’s face turned red as he spoke, “Wha- I- what makes you say somthin’ like that?”
Pike smiled, “Oh calm down, anypony with worth anythin’ can see that you’re head over hooves for that mare.”
The rest of the group nodded as Everest spoke, “You should tell her how you feel Hotham, you two would make the cutest couple.”

Zeil felt it was a little strange that the tallest and toughest looking stallion in the group would say that as Fuji spoke next, “I agree, honesty is the most redeeming quality that a stallion can show a mare.”
Hotham shook his head, “I don’t know what you blokes are getting at. She and I are just friends, nothing more.”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “If you two are just friends, then I’m sure you won’t mind if I take a shot at her?”
Hotham gave him a surprised look, “Wh-what?”
Zeil laughed, “Gotcha, your expression says it all. You got it bad for her.”
The rest of the group laughed as Hotham sighed in irritation, “If you blokes are done makin’ me look foolish, I think it would be a better time to plan tomorrow’s climb.”

Kiloman nodded, “This is true, with Master Zeil as a new companion, we should understand what skills he can bring to our team.”
Zeil waved his hoof, “Please, Zeil is fine. You don’t need to call me master since I left the temple. Anyways… since I’m new to climbing a mountain, I'll let you guys decide what I should do. Just say the word and I'll do what I can.”
The group thought to each other for a second as Kiloman spoke, “Might I ask, do you know any zebra magic? You mention you didn’t come from Zebrica, yet my curiosity still compels me to ask.”
Zeil nodded, “I do actually, though I’m not really a master in magic. Not like my teacher anyways.”
Kiloman nodded, “Does this include medicinal spells?”
Zeil nodded, “I know some medicinal spells, but I am limited on what I can and can’t treat.”
Hotham smiled, “then that’s your task, a medicine colt. We may need one after all, injuries are common on tough climbs.”

Fuji nodded, “Then it’s settled, we now have an enchanter to help with injuries.”
Everest smiled as he spoke, “Good, now we don’t have to worry about anypony getting hurt. We will need all our strength to reach the summit together.”
With that decided, the group nodded in agreement as Fuji decided to change the subject, “So Mast… I mean Zeil, which land do you hale from if not the land of Zebrica?”
Zeil replied with an unsure tone, “I guess… you could say I’m from the land of the Black Sand.”
Kiloman replied, “You guess? How can you guess where you are from?”
Zeil replied, “Well, I was hatc… born in the Land of the Black Sand. But… I wouldn’t say that that’s where my home is.”
Everest asked, “Then where is the place you call home?”

Zeil smiled as he looked at Pike, “I guess, you can say… my home is in Equestria.”
Pike smiled, “That so?... where abouts?”
Zeil replied, “The Everfree forest.”
Pike nodded, “Ah I know the one. Next to Ponyville right? I myself came from Van Hoover, but my little sis lives in Ponyville with her…” He sighed in irritation, “ugh… husband. But it was her choice that gave me motivation to set out on my own.”
Zeil felt a little confused, “What kind of place is Ponyville? Is it that bad?”
Seeing Zeil’s confusion Pike shook his head, “It ain’t like that, the town is actually a decent place to live. It’s just… There is a rival family there that has been a thorn in our side for years. At least till we finally picked up and moved. But my little sis decided to marry one of em’ so she stayed there since it was what she wanted. Seein’ Pear Butter choosing to stay behind and follow her heart, made me feel it was time I follow my own dream too. I didn’t care to farm pears my whole life, so ‘bout two decades ago, I said goodbye to the family, changed my name, and headed east. Conquerin’ every mountain in my path. Next on my list, Angela’s Peak.”

Smiling at Pikes goal, Zeil looked at Hotham, “so what about you? Where are you from?”
Hotham smiled, “me?... well Angel and I are from the outback of course. Way out there in the Wallaby Kingdom.”
Unsure of where that was Zeil gave the tan earth pony a funny look, “The Wallaby Kingdom? But you two aren’t…”
Hotham gave him a dull look, “no… and Kiloman ain’t a zebra neither. Just cuz we’re not the dominant race in the land we are from, don’t mean it ain’t our home.”
Understanding Zeil nodded, “Right… I didn’t mean any offence.”
Hotham shook his head, “None taken. Home’s where you feel ya belong. Not the place your ancestors hail from. And with Angel there with me, the outback will always be my home.”
Zeil nodded, “yea… that’s the truest statement I’ve ever heard.”
Fuji spoke next, “I myself came from here, in the Far East Provence. Although I was born just beyond the eastern mountain rang about ten days travel from here.”
Zeil nodded, “I assumed as much. You do seemed better acquainted with the culture here. Though this particular tavern doesn’t resemble the Far Eastern Culture.”

Fuji smiled, “no this place is owned by one of the northern cultures of the East. There are many after all, since this is a large Provence.”
Kiloman spoke next, “I myself hail from Zebrica as you know. My family traveled there when I was little and I grew up in a hut just outside the Eastern Tribes. There I learn much from the Zebra culture. You truly are a wise and spiritual race.”
Although Zeil wasn’t a zebra, he didn’t want to reveal his true self just yet so he replied, “um… thank you, I appreciate the compliment.”
Zeil looked at Everest, “What about you big guy? Where you from?”

Everest Smiled as he replied, “I came from the Silk Valley in the far north.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “The Silk Valley?... I’ve never heard of that place, is it far?”
Everest shook his head as the tall stallion replied, “Not very… it is a thick mountain rang to the frozen north. So much that many call it the Frozen Wall. There the tallest mountains in the world stretch for miles and miles across the landscape. It took me a while but I manages to conquer each one… except for the mountain known as the Titans Citadel. The tallest mountain on the face of this planet. So tall that nothing can survive on its peak. The air is too thin to breathe so it’s a literal impossibility.”
Zeil could easily read his words true meaning as he smiled, “So… you left home in hopes of getting the experience to climb it… didn’t you?”
The large modest stallion was surprised, “Oh no… me climb the Titan’s Citadel? I-I could never do something so bold.”
Seeing through his ruse, Zeil smiled, “is that so… then why bring up the Titan’s Citadel without me even asking about it? Seems funny such a big guy would bring up a challenge like that out of the blue to a complete stranger right?”

Blushing in embarrassment, the large mountain-like stallion was speechless as the rest of the group laughed with Hotham speaking through his laughter, “Krykie, read you like a book didn’t he mate?”
The large stallion tried to reply, “I… um… well…”
Zeil smiled, “I’m only kidding, there is nothing wrong with having a dream. Climbing a mountain that is quote, literally impossible to climb. It’s a good dream to have. I hope you succeed in doing it someday.”
Everest gave Zeil a pleased smile as he replied, “Thank you for your kind words. And… I admit it is true. I left home in hopes of being the first to climb that mountain. Though… I hear that doing so will require a special suit if I want to make it to its peak. I hear that suit is heavy to wear, so even a big guy like me can’t wear the suit and climb at the same time, so I’m on a journey to train myself to do it. I will make it to the top of the Titan’s Citadel and gaze upon the earth and all its beauty once I’m done.”

Kiloman smiled as he spoke, “You will my friend, if anypony had such a strong dream to be met, it’s yours.”
Fuji smiled, “we all hold dreams, and it’s our rolls as friends to support one another in meeting those dreams.”
The rest of the group smiled in agreement to the statement as Pike nudged Hotham as he spoke, S’pose we can help your dream come soon too.”
Hotham asked, “What’cha talking about mate? What dream?”
Fuji replied, “You and Miss Angels of course. We’ve been traveling for months now, so I think it’s high time we help you confess your feelings for her.”
Hotham sighed in annoyance, why do you blokes always assume that Angel and I are an item?”
Everest smiled, “Why wouldn’t we? You two are such a cute couple. And I would absolutely love to see you two even closer then you usually are.”

Hotham rubbed his head in irritation as he replied, “Zeil… could ya talk some sense into them.”
Zeil smiled, “I would but I actually agree with them. Then again I can’t say much since I’m new to the group.”
Pike nodded, “And still you’re wise enough to take a guess. After all ya did manage to call Everest out on his dream.”
Everest gave Pike a worried look, “Why do you have to bring it back to me?”
The group laughed at the reaction as Zeil could only feel inspired by the group. This group of friends came from all corners of the earth and they all enjoyed joking and laughing with each other as if they grew up in the same town. With their friendship making him feel welcomed into the group Zeil continued his conversation with the rest of the group until it had gotten late enough for them to decide to go to bed.

Later as Zeil trotted down the tavern hall to his room, he spotted Angel leaving one of the rooms as he stopped her and spoke with caution, “Um… Miss Angel?”
The mare gave him an annoyed look, “What do you want?”
Zeil replied, “I’m sorry if I offended you, or intruded in anyway. I didn’t mean to, I just… I just have to get to the other side of the mountain. And since Hotham offered it… I decided to take the offer while it was fresh. So… is there a way I can apologies for joining your group without permission?”
Zeil held out his hoof as a peace offering as Angel looked at it and ignored it before looking him in the eye and replying, “I don’t know what you are, or what your intentions are for these ponies… but their fate is in my hoof, so I'd suggest you stay out of my way.”
With that the mare started trotting by as she passed Zeil and continued down the hall before turning and opening the door to a different room, but as she opened the door, she sighed, “Look… since Hotham and the rest are happy to have you along… I guess I will tolerate you for a little while at least… but remember my warning. If you interfere, you’ll regret it.”
As Zeil watched Angel enter the room and close the door behind her, he could only feel confused as he tried to understand what she meant.

The Next morning came and Zeil along with Kiloman, Pike, Everest and Angel waited outside as Hotham and Fuji remained inside. As they waited Zeil looked at the clear morning sky and thick snow on the ground as he tried to understand what Angel’s hostility was about. Even now after a good night’s rest, Zeil could tell that she had a dismissive attitude towards him while she still was hiding her emotions from his changeling senses. As they waited with their gear all ready, Hotham exited the tavern with two bags and an unhappy look on his face as he spoke, “Bad news mates, Fuji has caught some kind of bug that is making him a little sick. So… he won’t be joinin’ us on this one.”
The group seemed a little surprised as Zeil asked, “A bug? What kind of bug?”
Hotham sighed, “The kind that ya get when you eat somthin’ you shouldn’t. You wouldn’t happen to have a remedy for that kind of bug do ya?”
Although the expression on the rest of the group seemed hopeful, Angel looked worried as Zeil replied without noticing, “Sorry, but I don’t have anything that can help a stomach problem. I know a few remedies but nothing that would cure him quickly. Two days at the least.”

Hotham shook his head as he replied, “Well, then we have no choice. We have to go on without him.”
Everest felt concerned, “But… shouldn’t we wait till he is better?”
Angel argued with an intentionally unconvincing response, “No… after all, Mr Zeil has to get to the other side of the mountain… right?”
Speaking in a way that made it seem like Zeil was to blame, Angel gave him a distained look as Hotham nodded, “She isn’t wrong. We offered to help Zeil across the mountain and that’s what I intend to do. Sides, it was Fuji’s idea to keep going anyways. He even gave me his supplies so Zeil would be well prepared for his first climb.”
Zeil tried to disagree, “Don’t put my need over your friends, If you want to wait till he is better, then you’re more than welcome t-“
Hotham interrupted, “don’t give me that… your my friend too ya know.”
Zeil looked at the rest of the group as all excluding Angel nodded in agreement while Hotham smiled, “Fuji will take the trail once the pass is cleared. Then once we meet up with him on the other side, we can join him and help him make the peak. Till then we can set out and help you first.”
Before Zeil could continue arguing, Pike stepped forward, “Now we won’t hear another word on it. We said we’d help you and that’s what we are gonna do. Now let’s quit flappin’ our bottom lip and get on it. The summit ain’t gonna wait till summer, and I'd like to see the snowcap before we set up our first camp.”

Without letting Zeil speak up again, most of the group turned towards the trail and started off on their trip as Zeil sighed in irritation and started following. As the group continued Angel and Hotham traveled at the back of the group as Angel stopped Hotham and spoke, “Hotham… why are you doing this? What is it about this zebra that is making you help him?”
Hotham smiled, “not sure… just… something about him makes me want to help the bloke out. Call it an intuition or instinct, but… I want to help him. He just seems like the type of stallion I can trust.”
Angel argued, “Do you even know why he needs to get to the other side of the mountain? What’s in it for him?”
Hotham thought to himself, “I don’t recall him saying why… maybe he is on his way home for something.”
Angel got irritated, “you don’t know why he needs this, and yet you’re still choosing to help him? Why?”

Hotham smiled as he shrugged his shoulders, “I don’t know… I just want to help him. Something tells me that… it’s the right thing to do.”
With nothing more to say on the subject, Hotham trotted away to catch up to the rest of the group as Angel sighed in disappointment, “I guess… I have no choice then.”
Before Angel started following the group, she turned back to the tavern one last time. With a sympathetic tone, Angel spoke before turning back to the trail to follow the group, “I’m sorry I had to do that Fuji… but now is not your time to reach the peak. Someday, you will reach the summit, but that day will never come… if you witness what happens next. But… what do I do…” Continuing on the path, she looked at Zeil, “About the creature that joined us?”

Bk3/Ch2 My New Friends

Book 3/Chapter 2
My New Friends
Year 00, Month 11, Day 05

The small herd of ponies continued up the slop of the mountain as they laughed at Pike’s statement. As they laughed, Hotham spoke, “Spiced Pear?... That was your name?”
Pike sighed, “Yea… it was… I changed it since my cutiemark was a climbing pick which obviously meant I wasn’t meant to farm pears. But since Pa was determined that I stay a farmer he wouldn’t hear it. But then when my little sis decided to stand up to him by disobeying his words, I felt it was time I do the same.” He looked down in disappointment, “I ain’t seen them since. That had to be ‘bout twenty years ago. I still wonder if it was the right choice.”
Everest nodded as he spoke up, “If it was what you truly wanted, then it shouldn’t matter. A dream can only be met when one seeks it himself.”

Pike smiled, “Sounds like something Fuji would say… shame he couldn’t join us for this.”
Hotham nodded, “Well, he wanted us to go on without him so… it’s not like we abandon him.”
Zeil sighed, “Yea… but I can’t help but feel a little responsible.”
Angel started to say something that would most likely agree with his statement, but before she could, Hotham gave her a look that said don’t, so she stayed silent as Kiloman shook his head, “Do not feel that way my friend, Fuji couldn’t predict this turn of events no more than the rest of us. Honoring his decision is all we can do for him. He wanted to help you to the other side of the mountain so even if we fail to reach the summit, we can always bypass it to complete your goal first.”
Zeil smiled as Kilimanjaro’s statement as Angel gave him a suspicious look, “I wonder… why are you trying to reach the other side of this mountain anyways?”
Ignoring her recognizable hostility, Zeil replied, “It’s the next stop on my way home.”
Kiloman asked, “Home… are you on your way to Equestria?”
Zeil nodded, “I am, yes.”

Pike thought to himself, “It’s a long distance to Equestria. None stop, it’s slightly over a year and a half by hoof.”
Zeil nodded as he replied with a determined tone, “I know… but, that doesn’t matter to me. What matters is that I get back as soon as possible. I have to.”
Everest smiled, “I know that look… you have a special somepony waiting for you there don’t you?”
Zeil nodded, “Some zebra, but yea… I have to get back to the mare I love.”
Pike was surprised, “A zebra in Equestria, I have been gone for too long. So for you to make such a journey, she must be a real keeper.”
Zeil nodded, “She is… Kind, selfless, and… I owe her my life in more ways than one.”
Although she was skeptic, Angel replied, “To make a trip like that holds a lot of risk… what make you so sure you can make it back in one peace?”

Zeil replied with determination, “Because I won’t stop… not till I see her again.”
Kiloman spoke next, “A mare to make one so determined, I would assume it is love in its truest form.”
Zeil nodded, “It is…”
Pike smiled, “I often wonder what my true love would be… I would hope, a good old fashioned country mare. One who is sweet, honest, and not afraid of a little hard work. Not that I would make her work all the time… just saying if I decide to go out and take care of the farm, she would be by my side as I did.”
Angel chuckled, “I though you said farming pears isn’t what you wanted to do?”
The rest of the group laughed as Pike replied, “Well… if I decided to settle down I would probably be harvesting some kind of fruit. I don’t see myself as the retired, none working pony. I'd lose my mind with boredom.”

The group nodded as Zeil replied, “Sound like a fitting bride for you.” he looked at Everest, “What about you big guy? What’s the type of mare for a mountain like you?”
Everypony in the group cringed at the statement as Hotham spoke, “Um… Zeil… Everest ain’t the type to be with… well… Sheila’s.”
Not understanding, Zeil gave him a funny look, “Sheila’s? What do you mean?”
Kiloman answered, “Well… um… He is the kind who prefers the company of… well… a fellow he, if you know what I mean.”
Zeil thought about the statement for a few seconds before realizing what it meant, “Oh… OH! Oh… um…” he looked back at Everest, “Sorry… I um… I hope I didn’t offend you.”
Everest shook his head, “No offense was taken, I understand that others like me aren’t as common as you would suspect, but… I hope that this doesn’t change our friendship in any way.”

Zeil shook his head, “Of course not, we can’t help what our heart wants.”
Everest smiled with joy, “That’s good, I wouldn’t want things to feel awkward between us. But to answer your question… I would like a stallion who is strong, confident, and at times sweet. One who isn’t afraid to be sensitive when he need to be, and is always thinking about others over himself.”
Angel smiled, “Sounds like a dream… completely different from you Hotham.”
Hotham was surprised, “Wh-what?”
The group laughed as Angel nudged him with her shoulder, “I’m just kidding. Your fine just the way you are.”
As Angel and Hotham smiled at each other, Zeil could easily feel the love Hotham had for her, but just like before, no emotion could be felt from angel. Zeil couldn’t understand it, but since it didn’t seem too concerning to him, he just ignored it as the rest of the group continued up the mountain’s slop.

As they continued trudging through the snow with the sun shining above, Pike reached into his bag and pulled out some shades as he put them on. Seeing this Hotham spoke, “Sun getting to your eyes?”
Pike nodded, “Yea, don’t need to get snow-blind this early in the climb.”
Zeil nodded, “I heard of that, it’s when the sun reflects off snow and burns the eyes right?”
Pike nodded, “you know your stuff, the light can irritate your eyes but it’s not a good idea to continue if you start feeling it too soon. Being blind on the mountain can be a death sentence.”
Zeil nodded, “Don’t worry, I know better than to look into the snow too much, the same thing can happen in the desert and I’ve traveled a few of them before too.”
Kiloman added, “Snow blindness is not the only danger that risks climbers… for example, Altitude sickness, lack of oxygen, along with falling.”

Zeil thought to himself as he asked, “So… have any of you had any of this issues before?”
Pike nodded, “I’ve had snow blindness once, and fell a few times but those were small falls so a few broken ribs were the worst I’ve had.”
Kiloman added, “I’ve had altitude sickness once, but that was a long time ago.”
Everest spoke next, “On my first attempt at the Titan’s Citadel, I suffered from lack of oxygen. I had to turn back before getting even a quarter of the ways up.”
Zeil was surprised, “I guess even the most experienced climbers run into problems too.”
Pike was curious, “Speaking of witch, we’ve hit a point where oxygen is low… but you haven’t huffed or puffed even once. Are zebras used to thin air?”

Zeil thought to himself, at first he assumed it was his time at the temple that helped him get used to it, although what he was willing to bet it was the fact that his body was reformed for six months in that type of environment. However, Zeil still felt that his species should be kept on the low, so he only replied, “The temple I was at was high on a mountain so I guess that’s why I’m used to it.

As they continued, Angel spoke up, “Altitude tolerance isn’t the key to reaching this particular summit. You still have to be worthy in… her eyes.”
Zeil gave her a confused look, “Her?”
Hotham spoke up, “The spirit of the mountain. There is an old mare’s tale on this mountain about a climber or… something like that.”
Angel sighed in annoyance, “Really Hotham… you didn’t listen to a word I said the other night did you?”
Hotham rubbed his head in embarrassment, “Well… I was a little tired that night so I didn’t quite hear all of what you said.”

Angel rubbed her head as she sighed, “Fine, I guess I'll tell it. A number of decades ago a mare named Angela became the first to try and climb Angela’s Peak. But the day she left, was the last day anypony ever saw her.”
Zeil asked, “So, she died?”
Pike shook his head, “Nopony knows, No body was ever found.”
Angel continued, “Not long after, a second pony decided to challenge the mountain. He succeeded, and in honor of the first to try, he decided to name the mountain after Angela. Since then, many have hoped to challenge Angela’s peak, but unlike most mountains where experience or skill decided the survivors. This one will actually choose who makes it to the summit unscathed… or that’s how the legend goes, if you believe that sort of thing.”

Zeil gave her a suspicious look, “So… your skeptic?”
Angel shrugged her shoulders, “I think it’s all the matter of fate. Anypony can simply try to climb a mountain, but unless destiny wields it… you will never make it in one piece, this or any summit. Sad to say, not everypony can reach a peak on skill alone.”
Hotham gave Angel a stern look, “Now that’s a little harsh eh Angel? I’d like to think as climbers we all are trying to challenge fate one way or another. After all, that’s exactly what Angela did. And despite its unfortunate outcome, we commemorate her as we do all climbers by taking the same challenge, she did all those years ago.”
Angel could only smile at Hotham’s response as Everest spoke next, “You know… I’d like to think that Angela succeeded and made it to the peak. Though… it’s possible she didn’t make it back afterwards.”
Kiloman nodded, “I would think she made it there then decided to go elsewhere. Perhaps she is still alive, living with a family in a faraway land.”
Angel shook her head, “That’s unlikely, this story is over eighty years old. Even if she did make it, time would have taken her by now. And I don’t mean to sound cruel, but that seems a little too optimistic for my taste.”

Hotham shook his head, “Maybe… but if she met somepony special, then she could have persevered to stay with him longer… Love has been known to defy even the laws of nature.”
Hearing the obvious flirting, Angel blushed slightly as Everest added, “Ah… Love is truly a blessed thing.”
Thinking the statement was directed towards them, Hotham and Angel looked away from one another as they both blushed with Hotham speaking up, “Wh-what?... I… I mean, sure it is…”
Seeing their reaction, made their affections for one another all the more obvious, however Zeil’s ability to sense emotion still seemed to have no effect on Angel. He didn’t quite understand why, but rather then questioning everything about his new reformed abilities, he only disregarded it in hopes that it was a simple fluke.

Slowly the path became steeper and steeper until the group finally had to pull out some tools to help with their climb. As they continued Hotham spoke, “Let’s keep movin’ mates, I'd like to set up camp as high as we can for the night. I already know we won’t reach the snow cap till tomorrow, but we can still make good on time.”
Zeil looked around the snow covered mountain as he replied, “Uh… the snow cap?”
Everest chuckled, “We haven’t reached it yet. This snow is from the winter season, the snow cap is snow left year round. That snow won’t melt, even during the summer.”
Zeil asked, “So… how do we know when we find it then? There is snow everywhere here.”
Angel sighed in irritation, “The snow will be thickest on the cap. So when it gets thicker then we have reached it. Till then… just try to keep focused, I’m not going to wait on you ya know.”

With that Angel turned away as she continued up the mountain as Zeil rubbed his head in annoyance that her spiteful self had returned. Seeing this, Pike spoke up, “Don’t worry too much Zeil. It takes time for an Angel such as her to accept you in her graces.”
Zeil replied, “Well let’s hope that she won’t have time to do that. I'd like to get there as quickly as possible.”
Pike nodded, “Welp, it should take five days right? If the weather stays like this then those days should pass quickly, then again, it will get tougher the higher we go.”
Without explaining, Pike continued up the mountain behind Angel as Zeil followed too.

After a number of hours passed, the group found themselves on a flat platform as Hotham looked at the next cliff they would have to start climbing. As he looked at Angel, “How’s the altitude?”
Angel nodded as she started flapping her wings as hard as she could till she was finally able to lift herself off the ground. Afterword’s she stopped as she huffed in exhaustion, “We’re moderately high up… I'd say… at least ten thousand feet or so. Moderately close to my flight limit.”
Hotham looked towards the setting sun as he sighed, “Pity… I was hoping to reach the snowline before sunset.”
Kiloman nodded, “No worries, this is our first time climbing Angela’s Peak so it’s nothing we can properly schedule. None the less we did reach the point we intended. If I’m not mistaken isn’t Angela’s Peak near Eighteen thousand feet? This should mean we are a little passed half way.”
Angel corrected, “Twenty… I think… needless to say we should use this platform as our camp site.”
Zeil smiled, “Half way in one day, that’s pretty good.”
Everest shook his head, “We started the climb at four thousand five hundred feet. As far as height goes we only traveled about a sixth of the way.”
Zeil sighed in disappointment, “Well that figures.”

Hotham smiled, “Needless to say this is where we should set up our camp for the night. Everest? Start unpacking the tents. Zeil, Kiloman, you two start clearing out the snow so we can have a dry place to place the tents and burner.”
Zeil asked, “Sure, what are you going to do?”
Hotham looked around as he replied, “Angel and I will go and see if we can find a vantage point.”
Zeil was confused, “Vantage point?”
Everest spoke up, “I'll tell you about it later, Let just focus on the camp for now.”
Hotham smiled as he added, “You’ll see if we find one.”
With that Hotham and Angel trotted up the side of the slop as Everest, Kiloman, Pike and Zeil started working to set up their camp.”

About half an hour later, as the four finished pitching the last tent, Hotham and Angel returned as Hotham spoke, “Hey mates? Looks like we found a point, wanna come take a look?”
Everest, Pike, and Kiloman nodded as they started following Hotham as Zeil could only follow in curiosity. After a few minutes of traveling up the path, Hotham and Angel led the rest of the group to a high cliff that looked out into the distance as Hotham sat down and gestured to the distance, “Here ya are. A good view, though I hope the rest of the climb holds a better one. As the group trotted to the edge of the cliff they looked into the distance in awe as Zeil was amazed. As he looked into the distance he could see both the Tavern he was at that morning and when he tried really hard, he could even catch a glimpse of the green bamboo forest in the distance that he had to travel through days prior.

Seeing this far out, Zeil marveled at the sight as Kiloman smiled and spoke, “Have you ever wondered why we do this? We all have our reasons for risking our lives like this. This… this is the reason I do it. Look out there, see the world as it was meant to be seen. Open, peaceful, borderless. It’s amazing to see what one is capable of seeing from a single vantage point.”
Pike nodded, “Well that’s just what you do it for… I do it to challenge myself. To climb to the highest reaches is both challenging and satisfying when you succeed, and I enjoy seeing what I can accomplish with enough determination.”
Everest nodded, “Reasonable reason. I am merely reaching for my goal, and my dream. Each peak I cross is one more step to train myself for the one mountain I want to conquer.”

Zeil nodded, “Wow… I didn’t realize there where so many reasons for climbing mountains.”
Trying to build trust, Zeil looked at Angel and asked, “So… why do you climb Angel?”
Although she seemed passive in her response, Angel still replied, “As if it was your business, I climbed because nopony thought I could.”
Hotham gave her a confused look as she replied to his confusion, “I meant nopony other then you.”
Hotham smiled as he looked at Zeil and spoke, “As for me, I do it for the cultural experience. To meet all the different kinds of ponies, species, cultures, and even beliefs. It’s just interesting to see how different everypony is from me. And challenging myself by testing each mountain is just a better reason to travel. I like to see the world and what it holds. Similar to Everest and Kiloman but still slightly different.”

Zeil nodded, “I’ve seen many cultures and how they are… but… I’ve never really taken the time to try and see them to a better extent. I think… Zecora is the first time I paid attention to such things. In fact… Zecora is the first time I started noticing that there actually was a world around me.” Angel gave him a curious look as he continued, “She showed me that there was more to life than just following what I was told to do. She showed me that everything around us had its own form of magic. Everything has its place and its way of living. A sort of… bond with the magic around it. And with that understanding… I became a different stallion… all thanks to her.”
Angel continued giving Zeil an unsure look as Hotham smiled, “Too right… I’ve never heard of it like that before, but it is true to say the least. That’s kind of what Fuji climbed the mountain for.”
Zeil was curious, “Really? How so?”
Everest replied, “With every peak we would reach, Fuji would meditate there for a few minutes. He said it was a way to connect with the worlds around him.”
Hotham shrugged his shoulders, “I never understood it… but to each his own.
Remembering the Ibex master’s teaching, Zeil nodded, “I guess in a way it was his way of attaining peace.”
Looking at the setting sun, Pike spoke up, “Well lookin’ at the time, we better get back and start the burner. It will be hard enough trying to light it at this altitude, but if the cold of night hits first then we will never get dinner cooked.”

All but Angel and Hotham turned towards the trail as Kiloman asked, “So… what’s for dinner Pike?”
Pike replied, “Oatmeal.”
Zeil added, “Pear flavored?”
Pike gave a fake laugh, “Oh ha ha… very funny.”
The group laughed as Everest noticed Angel and Hotham weren’t following as he turned to the two and ask, “You two coming?”
Hotham replied, “We’ll catch up with you blokes later… Angel and I are going to watch the view for a little bit longer.”
Everest nodded as he and the rest of the group continued back to the camp.

About an hour later as the group sat at the camp, Zeil and the rest of the party laughed as Pike continued, “Yep, took the whole water silo down right there on the field. Both my sis and pa had no idea what happened.”
The group laughed as Zeil replied, “Wow, and I thought my ki…” He cleared his throat then corrected, “Family was always starting trouble with neighbors.”
The group continued their laughter as Pike toned his down to a simple chuckle, “But then… the dern fool did something that I didn’t expect… heck, I respected him for it.”
Everest asked, “Really? What?”
Pike continued, “He owned up to it… that apple stepped forward and told pa everything. And all just to keep my lil’ sis from getting into trouble. I can’t say I liked the apples at all back then… but at that moment… I decided that they ain’t so bad… at least, not that one.”

Everest smiled at the story, “Such love struck ponies… broken apart by something as tragic as a family feud… sounds like a tragic fairy tale.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Actually it sounds more like a play… it seems familiar actually. Like I’ve heard it somewhere before.”
Kiloman added, “Either way… its sounds like some life you’ve lived. Equestria must be quite the place.”
Both Pike and Zeil replied at the exact same time, “It is…”
Realizing they both answered with the same thing, the two stallions looked at each other and smiled as Pike added, “Quite the place… I couldn’t think of any other to call home.”
Zeil nodded, “I couldn’t agree more.”

Kiloman thought to himself for a few second before replying, “Then… I would very much like to see this place for myself. A home that would lead a zebra to stay apart from Zebrica, must be a beautiful place to live.”
Before any of the group could reply, another voice spoke, “Sounds good to me mates, if you think its fine then s’pose we could take a detour there sometime.”
The group turned to see Hotham and Angel approach the camp as Pike replied, “Sounds good, I think it’s time I visit home anyways. I'd give me time to catch up with my sis, since I ain’t seen her in a while.”
Zeil handed Hotham a bowl of oatmeal as the arriving duo sat with the group with Hotham replying, “Then… how about after this?”
Angel gave Hotham a surprised look as Kiloman replied, “After this?... are you insinuating we travel to Equestria after reaching the other side of Angela’s peak?”
Hotham took a bit of the food before replying, “Why not? We can travel with Zeil and accompany him home.”
Zeil was confused, “Travel with me?... Are you su-“
Angel interrupted, “Are you kidding me?”

Everypony looked at Angel as Hotham replied, “We had no plans for our next climb, and you know well I’m always lookin’ to travel to a new place.”
Angel sighed in hopelessness, “As if I ever have any say in it.”
Hotham shook his head, “Now don’t be like that Angel… you know that if you decided not to, then just say the word and we won’t. There is still plenty of time to make a final decision on the matter, and I won’t do anything that you blokes won’t agree with.”
Seeing her disagreement on the subject Zeil spoke up, “You don’t have to do that Hotham… as much as I appreciate it, you don’t have to make any planes for my sake.”
Hotham Smiled, “And why shouldn’t we?... that’s what friends do for one another right? We do what we can to help one another. Ain’t that right mate’s?”
The rest of the group excluding Angel nodded their head as Zeil saw this and replied, “Friends… well… I won’t do anything to stop you… but… at least take Angel’s concern on the matter.

Although it didn’t sway her trust in him, Angel did like his words as she smiled, “Thank you Zeil… at least somepany is willing to listen to my concerns.”
Kiloman tried to correct her, “Ahem… some-zebra…”
Angel replied with a distrusting tone, “We’ll see…”
Zeil gave her a confused look as nopony else paid attention to the comment while Hotham replied, “Alright, alright… if it makes ya feel any better, we can sit and think on it. We have four more days till we reach the other side of the mountain anyways so let’s just wait before making any decisions. Right?”
The group nodded in agreement as Angel replied, “Thank you, that’s all I ask. Now if you can catch us up, what brought up the topic of Equestria in the first place?”

Kiloman replied, “Well, Pike was telling us about the fruit feud he and his family was having with some apples.”
Pike sighed in irritation, “Alright, first off, it’s not with simple apples it’s the entire Apple family. And second it ain’t a fruit feud.” He thought about it for a second, “Okay, in a way it was a fruit feud, but it’s more about the most successful farmers, not the type of fruit we grow.”
With that, the group went back to the previous subject as Pike told the story of his family feud back in Equestria. Slowly, the sun started going down as one by one the group started breaking off to get some sleep for the next day’s climb.

It wasn’t long before the whole group was reduced to just Zeil, Hotham, and Angel as Angel yawned and spoke, “Well, I guess it’s my turn to call it a night. Are you coming to bed too Hotham?”
Hotham shook his head, “In a sec, I wanted to speak with Zeil a little more before turning in.”
Angel shifted her disapproving glance to Zeil as she replied, “Really… fine… then I'll see you in the morning.”
With that Angel trotted to her tent as she climbed inside and closed it behind her. After Angel was out of earshot, Hotham spoke, “So Zeil… can I ask you a personal question?”
Zeil nodded, “it depends, what’s the question?”

Hotham hesitated as he put the words together before speaking, “The mare you’re trying to get back to… are you sure its true love?”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… I’m sure as I can be.”
Hotham continued, “How do you know… and… did you ever tell her how you feel?”
Zeil answered both questions at the same time, “I know, because I feel it, and… yes I told her exactly how I feel.”
Hotham asked, “How?...”
Zeil hesitated for a few second before replying, “Well… it was more like… she told me first. But… I knew we both felt the same so… I just kinda went with it.”

Hotham sighed in disappointment as he replied, “Oh… well… ya see, I… have feelings for Angel…”
Zeil smiled as he replied sarcastically, “Ya don’t say?...”
Hotham gave him an unamused look, “Oh ha ha… sure, ya had me pegged since day one. Anyways… I was wanting to tell her at the perfect moment… but… I can’t tell what moment that would be.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Well… a wise pony once said, no better moment then the present.”
Hotham shook his head, “Nah… it just ain’t special enough… I want to do it at the perfect time.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Well… why not chose a time when you’re looking at the scenery? I could tell that it is a special time for both of you, so just tell her the next time you’re looking over the world.”
Hotham had an idea, “Better yet, I could tell her at the summit.”

Zeil nodded, “Yea that would be a great time to do it.”
Hotham smiled, “Then it’s settled, once we reach the summit, I'll tell her how I feel.”
Zeil was a little concerned as he asked, “Hey Hotham… did she happen to mention why she seems to hate me? I’m not saying we should be best friends or anything, but… I just don’t want there to be all this conflict between us.”
Hotham chuckled a little, “I'll talk to her… she didn’t say why she seems to distrust you, but… I can tell that she doesn’t like you very much at all. Have you two met somewhere before?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I’ve never seen her in my life.”
Hotham thought to himself, “Well… even if ya did you’re not the type of bloke to provoke anypony intentionally.”
Zeil asked, “Do you think there is anything I can say to make things less hostile between us?”

Hotham thought to himself, “Well if I know her well enough, she li… well she’s fond of… uh…”
Zeil could sense Hotham’s confusion as Hotham tried to remember, “What is it she likes again?...”
Zeil was confused, “You don’t know?”
Hotham shook his head, “No… I know what she likes… but for some reason… I just can’t think of it… it will come to me in my sleep I’m sure of it, but… for some reason I just can’t think of it right now…it’s on the tip of my tongue but I can’t remember.”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “Well… whenever you remember just let me know.”
Hotham nodded, “I will… wait… actually there is something I know about her… the true reason she climbs.”
Zeil replied with intrigue, “True Reason? I thought it was because nopony thought she could?”
Hotham replied, “Well that’s what she says, but there is more to it than that. She said the reason she climbs is to… exist. She said that when we were growing up, she felt like she had no true purpose but by making it to the top of the world, she felt she was proving that she really did have a purpose after all.”

Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “She didn’t have… depression when growing up. Did she?”
Hotham shook his head, “Not that I know… she seemed like any other filly to me. Why?”
Zeil replied, “It just seems like that’s something somepony who was troubled would say… as if, she felt that the peak of a mountain was all she had in the world.”
Hotham shook his head, “Unlikely, She and I were inseparable when growing up. We used to get into all sorts of trouble when we were foals.”
Zeil replied, “Then… I wonder why she said that…”
Hotham replied, “She could have made it up, if I had a reason that I didn’t want anypony to know, I would probably do the same.”
Zeil nodded, “I guess…”

Hotham stood up as he spoke, “Well… I’m going to hit the hey. I'd suggest you do the same so we can get to an early start in the morning.”
Zeil nodded as he stood up too, “Sure I'll do that.”
Hotham turned the fuel on the burner down till the flame went out, then started to trot to his tent as Zeil stopped him one last time, “Hey Hotham?”
Hotham turned to Zeil, “Yes?”
Zeil continued, “I was wondering… why did you accept me so fast? I didn’t even know you and you just approached me out of the blue.”
Hotham thought to himself, “I’m not sure myself… for some reason, I just felt that I needed to help you. That and I usually have good intuition when it comes to knowing which ponies are good and which should be avoided. Either way… I was happy I did approach you. Despite how little we know about each other… I’m still glad to call you a friend.”

Hotham turned to go to his tent, “Well… I'll see you in the morning mate. And… about Angel… don’t worry ‘bout her so much. She’ll come around.”
With that Hotham continued back to his tent as Zeil quickly stopped him, “Hotham wait!”
Hotham paused as Zeil spoke, “Since you’re honest with me… I want to be honest with you. I’m not a zebra… I’m actually a changeling.”
Hotham was curious, “Those ain’t the bug things that feed on love are they?”
Zeil nodded, “They are…”
Hotham asked, “Are you here to feed on my and Angel's love?”
Zeil shook his head, “No…”
Hotham shrugged his shoulders, “Then what’s the problem? If ya ain’t here to steal our love and you are truthful about why you are here… then why are ya hidin’ it? Everything else you said is true ain’t it?”
Zeil nodded as Hotham continued, “Then nothing’s changed. I still trust you and even if you are a changeling I see no reason to trust you any less.”

Relived Zeil smiled, “Good… I was a little worried tha-“
“What? A friendly addition to our group of a different race would be treated any differently from the likes of us? This doesn’t change a thing, and if it did change at least my opinion of ya, then the rest of the team would think poorly of me. After all, we are all different in our own way, and you were different when we thought you were a zebra, so nothing’s changed.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Well… I guess your right about that.”
Hotham smiled, “Cheers for being honest with me mate. Good to know that you really are a good friend. See ya in the morning.”
Zeil smiled, “Yea… see you then.”
As the two left one another, Zeil looked up the mountains slop towards the peak as he replied, “Friends… I didn’t think I would make so many in this one journey. Feels good… but, why do I still feel like something is wrong… like… I’m still in danger.”

Bk3/Ch3 Thin Ice

Book 3/Chapter 3
Thin Ice

Year 00, Month 11, Day 06

Wearing thick cold weather gear, the group of climbers trotted up the cliffside path as, Everest spoke, “So… let me get this straight… You have no wings right?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes.”
“So if you changed into something with wings… you still wouldn’t have them right?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes.”
“So… what if you changed into something that had something else that you don’t have?”
Zeil asked, “Like what?”
The rest of the climbers thought to themselves as Hotham spoke, “How ‘bout a snake? They got fangs.”

Zeil sighed, “My original form did too, though we had no venom.”
Everest spoke next, “A unicorn? They got a horn.”
Zeil nodded, “I do too.”
To show what he looked like, Zeil turned into his reformed changeling self as the rest of the group looked at him in awe. After seeing his true self, Zeil turned back into a zebra without any hesitation in his step as they rest of the group excluding Angel spoke, “Whooo.”
Angel rolled her eyes as Hotham saw this and spoke, “Come now Angel, you were right all along. There was something strange about him that you didn’t trust, but now he told us the truth and it’s all in the open.”
Angel replied, “I don’t buy it… this isn’t what made me suspicious of him… if anything, it’s only proof that he is still hiding something important from us.”

As they continued up the path that was covered in snow the group steps through a deep snow bank as Zeil tripped over something. As he picked himself up and looked back, he was soon hit with shock as he spoke, “Chrysalis’s grace! It’s a body!”
Quickly picking himself up and backing away, Zeil stayed back as the rest of the group gathered around and brushed the snow from the corpse. When it was fully revealed, the group found themselves looking at a young male unicorn laying in the snow as he laid stretched out as if he died trying to crawl on his path. Seeing this Hotham sighed, “The bloke must have gotten caught in a snow storm or something, I admire his determination though. Looks as if he died still trying to reach the peak.”
Everest nodded, “Well… not all climbers succeed in meeting their goal. I guess the best thing to do is to carry on and finish what he started.”

With that, the group turn to the trail and started to continue as Zeil spoke in confusion, “Wait… we’re just going to leave him here?”
The group paused as Angel replied, “Yea… what of it?”
Hotham gave her an angry look, “Angel… be nice.” He looked back at Zeil, “There isn’t anything we can do for him. We can’t take him with us, and we can’t take him back since we still need to cross the mountain.”
Zeil tried to think, “Well… why don’t we bury him.”
Angel replied, “The ground is frozen solid, and we have nothing strong enough to dig a hole… so be my guest.”
Zeil continued, “But… we can’t just leave him here… can’t we do something for him?”
Hotham shook his head, “It wouldn’t make a difference. Sad to say, the mate has long since met his maker. The best we can do is acknowledge his attempt, and try to finish with him in mind.”
Zeil tried to think of something, “But… but…”

Kiloman spoke, “Zeil… my friend. We all know the challenges of taking on a mountain. And we all know what could happen to us, and what will result of it. This poor soul isn’t the first to meet his end up here, and he won’t be the last. And like him, any of us may find ourselves at the top of some forsaken peak. Lifeless, and frozen. All we can do for him, is to respect that he gave it his all, and accept that he is no longer part of this world.”
Everest added, “Many high peaks hold poor souls that died in the attempt. And many still lay upon those same mountains. But with the height too high to recover them by air ship, or the trail to treacherous to simply seek them out, it’s completely impossible to recover all who die upon those peaks. And though it seems cruel to leave them be… it’s simply the result that we all know and accept as one of many ways a climb can end.”
Hotham put his hoof on Zeil’s shoulder, “I understand your sentiment, but we can’t do anything for him. All we can do is continue.”

Hotham turned to the rest of the group as they continued on their trail as Zeil sighed, “I guess… your right…”
Everest nodded, “Don’t take it too personally Zeil… this is just the way it is. We have seen many on our travels… and no matter how many you see… it never gets easier to ignore.”
With that said, the group continued along the path as Zeil tried to forget about the poor soul left behind. As the group continued along the cliff, the pass eventually opened out into a large open area that stretched for a long distance before reaching smaller cliffs that they would have to scale to continue. Seeing the large frozen clearing, Kiloman spoke, “A lake.”
Zeil was confused, “lake?”
Everest nodded, “Yes, look at how this clearing dips in the center, then flattens out. The dips are the bank and the flat portion is a frozen lake.”
Zeil asked, “Is it safe to cross?”
Hotham trotted down the bank as he brushed away the top layer of snow and looked into the ice. As he looked, he pressed against its surface as he smiled, “Seems safe enough, not too thick, but it won’t break if we go jumpin’ on it. Just be on the lookout for thin ice.”

The group nodded as they started trotting over the ice towards a small cliff that sat on the other side. As they trotted Pike asked, “So Zeil, about the whole changeling thing… say you wanted to be a fish… would a changeling need gills to change into one?”
Zeil shook his head, “No, our lungs would turn into gills to adapt to the change. What we do is change our outside to acquire both physical and biological appearance of what we are changing into. If we already have the limbs, like wings horn or legs, then that part of us changes to look similar to the species we are changing into. However if that part of us is damaged, then it will change, but it will still be scarred just like it is naturally. If I tried to change into a pegasus, then I would be a pegasus with scars where my wings should be. As for parts we don’t have, our body can create them and they will work similarly to what they should, but since we naturally don’t have those appendages we may have a hard time using them, say a griffin and his talons. I can make them, but it will be hard getting used to moving multiple fingers that I wasn’t born with.”

The rest of the group nodded in understanding as Hotham spoke, “So your insides change too?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, organs change to look similar, blood color, even skin texture. Everything we need to blend in to our surroundings. Since… not very many species take kindly to us.”
Hotham nodded, “I see, judging the entire race by the actions of the few. I heard stories about how bad changelings are, but I don’t judge by reputation alone, I only judge the individual by his or her actions.”
Zeil smiled, “I’m glad, not many ponies tend to think for themselves anymore.”
Kiloman nodded, “Your honesty shows your integrity. To us, that’s a good guy no matter how you sell it.”
As the group reached the cliff face, Pike looked at the ice beneath him as he spoke, “Looks like the lake goes under this cliff, anyways whose going to climb to place the anchor?”

Hotham smiled as he pulled a rope from his saddlebag, “I’ll do it. It’s not that high, a good fifteen feet or so.”
As Hotham tied the rope around himself, Angel gave him a climbing pick as she spoke, “Be careful.”
Hotham smiled, “I’ll be fine, just hang tight till I place the anchor.”
Using the pick in his hoof, Hotham started climbing the steep cliff as everypony else pulled climbing harnesses from their bags and started putting them on. As soon as Hotham reached the next platform, he took a few steps in and hammered an anchor about ten feet from the edge. Then he untied the rope from himself and tied it to the anchor before giving it a good tug to make sure it was secured. When he saw that the rope was tight, Hotham looked over the edge to see that the rope draped all the way down to his friends as he called, “Anchor secured mates! Everest, you’re up first!”

Nodding in agreement, Everest took the clip that was on his harness and clipped it to the rope before carefully climbing up the rope while keeping hold of it on both sides of the connected clip. When he reached the top he looked down, “She’s stable enough, whose next?”
As Everest unclipped himself then climbed onto the platform, Angel looked at Pike as she spoke, “You go next… I’ll be right behind you.”
Although the suggestion didn’t seem unusual to Pike, Zeil however felt that there was a strange tone in her voice as Pike clipped himself to the rope and replied, “Not a problem Angel.”
As Pike climbed the rope, Angel looked at Zeil with an untrusting look, then she raised her hoof up and made an action as if she was blowing on it. Although he didn’t quite catch what she was doing, Zeil did feel something a little odd when she placed her hoof back against the Ice beneath them.

It was a strange feeling but it felt as if the ice sank slightly as Zeil looked down and saw no change in the ice’s appearance. Thinking it was only his mind, Zeil looked back up the rope to see Pike just as he was reaching the top. However as Pike unclipped himself from the rope, something weird caught Zeil’s eye. All of a sudden, a strange string of condensation started climbing up the stone on the cliff from the ground as it quickly stretched to the ground that Pike was currently pulling himself up on. Before his rear hoof was planted, a large chuck of the cliff shifted downward as the unexpected shift caused Pike to lose his grip as the surprised earth pony slipped from the edge and fell from the cliff. Seeing his falling friend, Hotham called, “PIKE!!!”

Frantic, Pike tried to reach for the anchored rope but since it was too fare for him to reach, he was unable to slow his fall as he fell from the fifteen foot high before hitting the ice below. Too stunned to move, Pike laid on the unscathed ice as Zeil quickly rushed to him as he checked him, “Pike, are you alright? Do you f-“
“LOOKOUT!!!”
At that moment, Pike used what strength he had to kick Zeil away as the section of the cliff that had shifted before, had unknowingly fallen behind him as it crashed down on top of Pike causing the ice beneath him to shatter as both he and the large chunk of earth sank into the freezing water below them.

Hotham panicked as he rushed to the anchor, untied the rope, tied it around his body and ran back to the cliff as he dove from the high cliff right into the hole in the ice that Pike had vanished into. After seeing his actions, Angel called, “Hotham NO!!!”
Quickly reacting to chaos around them, Zeil looked to the other end of the rope that was quickly losing its slack as he ran to the end and grabbed it before calling, “Angel, Kiloman!”
Reacting to his call, the two ponies quickly rushed to Zeil’s side as they all grabbed ahold of the rope so it wouldn’t get pulled into the frozen lake along with the two who were submerged. As they held onto the end of the rope, Angel called, “We need to pull them out! On three! One, Tw-“
Zeil interrupted, “Wait!!!”

Trying to sense the earth ponies’ aura, Zeil placed his hoof against the ice as he tried to locate the two beneath it. As he continued trying to find them, Angel spoke, “What wait? We need to get them out of there! Hotham cou-“
“One sec, we need to give him time to get Pike!”
After his explanation, Zeil continue sensing the two until both auras seemed to connect, then he called, “NOW PULL!!!”
Reacting to the call, Angel, Kiloman, and Zeil pulled as hard as they could as the rope quickly tightened on the edge of the hole in the ice causing it to crack more. Ignoring the risk it could bring to themselves, the trio continued pulling on the rope as hard as they could while Everest could only watch from above in worry for his friends below. After a few second of pulling it wasn’t long before Hotham surfaced on top of the water as he held onto Pike with all his might.

Quickly assisting their friends, Zeil, Kiloman, and Angel pulled the two from the freezing cold water as they quickly pulled them towards the closest bank. After reaching solid ground, Hotham laid Pike on the bank as Angel wasted no time in removing his wet clothing and covering him with a dry blanket from her saddlebag then she proceeded to hold him close to try warming him up with her own body heat. As this happened Zeil looked over Pike’s body as Hotham spoke through his shivering, “how… how is he mate?... he… he didn’t look too good when I f-found… found him.”
Zeil knew right away Pike was in bad shape, “It’s not good at all, the boulder that hit him crushed him before shattering through the ice… and the black on his hooves… I think… that’s frost bite.”
Hotham nodded as he replied, “Th-then it’s set-settled. We camp here for the night.” He looked towards Everest who was still on the higher cliff, “Evvv- evvv… evvv…”

Seeing that Hotham was having trouble speaking, Kiloman called in his place, “Everest! Do you still have your rope in your bag?”
Everest nodded, “I do… is Pike and Hotham okay?”
Kiloman replied, “For now, they are fine, use the anchor to climb back down. We need to set up camp to treat Pike’s injuries.”
Everest nodded, “I understand!”
With that Everest found his rope and started climbing down as Kiloman quickly tried to set up Pike’s tent first while Zeil and Angel tended to Hotham and Pikes injuries.

Hours later after nightfall, Pike was lying in a tent with a fuel heater keeping him warm as the group treated him while Pike asked, “So… how’s it look Dr. Changeling?”
Smiling at his sense of humor Zeil replied, “Well… you want me to sugar coat it… or would you like it straight forward?”
Pike smiled, “You ain’t the type to give it straight… so just coat it with whatever sweetener ya got. Just don’t lie to me.”
Trying to say it as gently as possible, Zeil replied, “Well… I’m no doctor, but it’s easy to see that, you have a few broken ribs… and a lot of frost bit. Seems our only option is to take you back.”
Pike felt a little disappointment as he replied, “Is that so… shame, I was lookin’ forward to seeing the view from Angela’s Peak… S’pose I just wasn’t worthy after all.”
Hotham replied, “You have every bit of worth that the rest of us have mate. You just get your rest and we can try again next time… maybe then we can do it on the summer months eh?”
Pike smiled, “If you say so.”

With that the group started to leave the tent as Pike spoke up, “Hey Angel? Can I have a word with ya? I just want you to clear something up before… whatever happens next.”
Angel nodded and stayed behind as the rest of the group left the tent. Outside, Hotham, Zeil, Everest and Kiloman trotted to the burner where their food was cooking as Hotham spoke, “So… why didn’t you tell him the truth?”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “Because he is right… I don’t have the heart to tell him.” He looked at Everest, “Are you sure frostbite is that bad?”
Everest nodded, “The frostbite is stage four… the tissue on his hooves is dead and if we do not amputate, then… he will get gangrene, and die. Only a hospital has the tools to amputate limbs safely.”
Kiloman nodded, “And that’s if he’s fortunate to survive the night… the boulder did more than just break ribs.”
Zeil nodded, “Your right… And unless he gets an x-ray we can’t know just how bad he is. The broken ribs he has were pushed inward and most likely pierced a few organs. His heart and lungs are safe… but that only means it won’t be quick for him.”
Everest added, “Though he did seem to be in high spirits for his condition.”

Zeil nodded, “you can thank Zecora for that.” He pulled a flask from his saddlebag, “She used this paste on me when I lost my wing. It will make him feel weird, but it will also remove all pain from his body and nullify it. But it doesn’t heal anything, and it only numbs him for a few hours. I just hope it will last him till morning so he can rest.”
At that moment, the light in his tent went off as Angel exited the tent while speaking, “Just get some rest, and… I’ll see you in the morning. Sweet dreams Pike.”
As she closed the tent behind her, Angel looked at the rest of the group as she spoke, “He wanted to get some sleep. He doesn’t know how bad he is, but he can tell its bad since you gave him such a strong pain killer.”
Zeil nodded, “It is bad… so… what did he say to you?”
Angel shook her head, “I don’t really want to say… but… he thinks we should go on without him.”

Hotham thought to himself, “Go on without him… hmm…” He looked at Zeil, “Are you okay with it? I don’t want to cancel this climb if you still want to get to the other side.”
Zeil have Hotham a surprised look, “You really think I want to abandon him here? No… We are going back. I’m not going to let him die just for my goal. Zecora will understand a few days if it’s to save a friend.”
Hotham smiled, “Too right mate. The climb is canceled.” He looked at Angel, “You can tell the ol’ bludger that we ain’t going nowhere without him.”
Angel nodded, “I thought you would say that… let’s just hope he can travel with us in the morning. With his injuries as bad as they are… it’s in Angela’s hooves now.”

The group gave her a funny look as Everest asked, “Angela? I though you said you didn’t believe in that sort of thing?”
Angel nodded, “I don’t… But you have to admit, today seemed a little too orchestrated to me… as if somepony… or something planed it all out.”
Hotham was concerned, “Something?... like what?”
Angel replied, “Who knows, but if you ask me, it may have something to do with the old Angela rumor. Maybe this mountain is cursed, or maybe it’s all in my head. Then again… who knows, when I try to think about it, it just gives me a headache.”

As Angel said those words, Zeil started remembering the condensation he had seen earlier with the cliff’s face as he looked towards the place where he saw it. Only with the darkness of the night covering the area, he couldn’t tell if it was still there or not as Hotham saw his actions and asked, “What is it? You see something?”
Trying to second guess himself, Zeil shook his head, “no… I don’t think so anyway… just… maybe my imagination.”
Angel gave him a distrusting glance as Hotham stood up and replied, “Well… I’ve had enough of this day so… I think I’ll call it a night. I’ll see you blokes in the morning. We’ll be leaving bright and early so get your rest.”
With that Hotham trotted to his tent as Zeil asked one last time, “are you sure you’re alright? No numbness anywhere?”
Hotham smiled as he replied, “Cheers for the sentiments mate, but I’m as fit as ever. Just a little rooted from today’s excitement.”

With nothing more to say, Hotham went to bed as Everest and Kiloman both stood up as Kiloman replied, “I agree with Hotham… this day was more excitement then I was expecting.”
Everest nodded, “I agree, but… I wish I could have done more for Pike. Being stuck on that cliff, made me feel so useless.”
Zeil nodded, “We can do more for him when we go back tomorrow. We covered a lot of ground, so we will need your help getting him back to the inn.”
Everest nodded as he replied, “Your right, thanks Zeil. You’re a good friend.”
Kiloman nodded in agreement as the two started trotting to their tents leaving Zeil and Angel alone.

As the last two sat next to the burner Angel spoke, “So… can I ask you something Zeil?”
Expecting a disrespectful question, Zeil replied, “If you’re going to continue insulting me. I’d rather you didn’t… but, I don’t want there to be any more bad blood between us, so if your serious, I’ll hear you out.”
Angel nodded as she replied, “What would you say… If I told you, that… we will continue this journey up the mountain. What would you think?”
Zeil replied, “I would be surprised, but Hotham did say we were going back… and personally… I agree. Pike needs a doctor… a real doctor. All I can do for him is numb his pain, I can’t actually treat his wounds.”
Angel nodded as she replied, “So… you’re saying you actually care for his wellbeing?”

Zeil replied in surprise, “Of course I do, I care about his just like I care about all of the group… even you. Despite what you think of me, I’ve grown to like being a part of you guys. So much in fact that I wouldn’t wish any harm on any of you.”
Angel stood up as she replied with an unconvinced tone, “Somehow… I find that hard to believe.”
As Angel started trotting away Zeil replied in a tone that was equally disrespectful, “Believe it or not… I don’t care. I stand by my friends… as a changeling I find myself with so few that… I can’t afford to lose any more.”
Although she slightly admired his determination, Angel still replied in a disrespectful tone, “We will see.”
Confused by her words, Zeil could only watch the only pegasus in the group, as she trotted to her tent and went inside.

That night as Zeil slept, he started to see a strange vision. He could see a pony wearing so many layers of warm clothing that her coat color couldn’t be seen as the coughing mare made her way through a thick snowstorm. As she continued through the snow, her steps became more and more sluggish as the exhausted mare stepped onto a thin plate of ice that was concealed by the thick snow on top of it. Trying to carry herself on, the tired mare continued dragging her hooves until one slipped out from under her causing her to fall onto the thin ice as the entire sheet beneath shattered leaving the tired mare to fall into a deep crevice. As the mare vanished into the darkness, the vision faded leaving a terrible feeling of dread to fall on Zeil as he woke to find that morning had already come and that the sun was already out. Knowing that this feeling was a sign, Zeil quickly rushed out of the tent, but when he got outside, the feeling was confirmed as he saw Kiloman, Everest, Hotham and Angel all sitting around the fuel burner with unhappy looks on their faces. As he looked at the sad expression, Zeil paned his eyes over to Pike tent only to find that the tent wasn’t standing, instead he could only see the tarps used on the tent to wrap a body in its place as Zeil spoke, “Pike… is he?...”

Everest nodded his head as he replied, “It would seem that Pike Pete… passed peacefully in his sleep late last night.”
Hotham nodded as he added, “It must have been shortly after we went to sleep… he didn’t make it to morning.”
Zeil asked, “What was it?”
Everest sighed, “Possibly a fatal wound any of his robe, or even something worse… in all honesty we may never know… all we do know is…”
Angel spoke, “His last request was to continue on without him… so…”
Zeil shook his head in disbelief, “What… we are still going to continue forward… after this?”
Hotham nodded, “Why not… Pike took the challenge knowing that this was always a possibility. Just as we all do. The least we can do for him is to shoot through to the end.”

Zeil shook his head in disbelief, “But… what about Pike?”
Hotham replied with an unhappy tone, “What about him?... we leave him here.”
Zeil shook his head, “Were just going to leave him behind?”
Kiloman nodded as he replied, “Right now, Pike is one of many poor souls who failed to reach the summit. We can only leave him with the rest as we continue at his last will.”
Zeil shook his head, “you say that as if he were some random stranger. Pike was our friend, he was my friend! We c-“
Angel stood and spoke in anger, “DON’T TALK AS IF HE MEANT NOTHING TO US!!! You were the last to join this group! Meaning if anything he has been our friend long before you came into the picture! You don’t think we know how hard it is to lose somepony close to us?...”
“Angel…”
“YOU DON’T THINK WE UNDERSTAND HOW HARD IT IS TO LEAVE HIM BEHIND!!! YOU THINK IT’S SO EASY TO FORGET ABOUT SOMPONY YOU CARE ABOUT!!!”
“Angel that’s enou-”
“WHO ARE YOU TO SAY ANYTHING!!! YOUR NOTHING!!!”
“ANGEL!!!”

Realizing Hotham was trying to calm her, Angel sat down and silenced herself as Hotham continued, “That’s enough Angel…” he looked at Zeil, “Don’t see our actions as disrespectful mate… but we don’t have the equipment to drag him with us, and we don’t know what to expect further up this mountain. Pike was my mate… just as the rest of you are… but we can’t let his death be pointless. Now… he will never reach Angela’s Peak. But if we carry his memory with us… then once we touch the summit… it will be the best we can do for him.”
Zeil looked at the ground in disappointment as Kiloman added, “If something were to happen to you before you reach Zecora… would you at least want somepony to pass your message to your love in your place?”
Seeing it clearer, Zeil replied, “I would… but… I just think he deserves better…”
Everest smiled, “We aren’t just going to leave him out on display… we found a snowbank to bury him in. it isn’t very deep, but considering what we have, it’s the best we can do.”
Zeil still didn’t know how to feel about it as Angel sighed, “I’m sorry… Okay? What I said was a little harsh, so… I apologies. Pike was all of our friend and it just hurts to see one of us go like this. All we can do for him is let him rest while we fulfill his last request.”

The rest of the group stared at Angel in surprise as Zeil nodded, “Sure… if… if that was truly his last request… then let’s do it. For Pike.”
Hotham smiled as he stood up and put his hoof on Zeil’s shoulder, “For the yank. Let’s finish this climb.”
He looked at Angel, “Do we have an altitude reading?”
Angel nodded, “This incident put us back a number of hours, but considering what happened we were only able to climb about four thousand feet yesterday, as opposed to the hopeful ten thousand. Either way we are above my flight limit now so we can only guess how close the summit is from us.”
Hotham sighed in disappointment, “So we are about seven thousand feet from the summit then. Well time to make up for lost time.”
He looked at the rest of the group, “Let’s pack it up! We’ve already lost a little daylight, and I want to show Pike how much he means to us.”

The group stood up as they started taking down the rest of the camp. As Kiloman, Angel, and Zeil took down the camp, Everest and Hotham took Pike’s body to a large snowbank against a cliff face as they buried their friend as deep as the earth would allow. By the time they finished, the team of climbers stood over Pike’s grave as they shared a brief moment of silence before trotting back to the cliff that caused the incident and climbed up in the exact same method as the day before. After the remaining five climbers made it to the top of the cliff, Hotham and Angel took one last look at Pike’s grave from atop the cliff as Hotham mumbled, “Don’t worry mate… We’ll get to the summit. And you can watch the view with us when we do.”
As Hotham turned to follow the group, Angel mumbled to herself, “Pike… I’m sorry it had to end this way… at least, there was no pain. Let’s just hope that so-called changeling won’t cause any for the rest. I’d rather nopony suffers… this time.”

Bk3/Ch5 The Angel of Death

Book 3/Chapter 5
The Angel of Death
Year 00, Month 11, Day 08

“The day we arrived at the mountain… we were approached by a mare dressed in a white cloak. When she approached us… she claimed to be a fortune teller and she said that if our endeavor is to reach the summit of Angela’s peak, then she will look into our future and see if we are successful.”
Zeil continued pulling Kiloman on the sled through the tunnel as he replied, “Sounds suspicious to me.”
Kiloman nodded, “Pike thought the same… but since she offered to tell us our future without asking for anything in return, we just went with it. Saw no harm in it and felt there wasn’t any loss in hearing her words.”
Zeil gave him a suspicious look, “So… what did she see?”
Kiloman chuckled in a painful way, “Not a clue…”
Zeil gave him a dull look, “Really?...”

Kiloman smiled as he laid his head back and looked at the roof of the cave, “Like I said… our memories come back the closer we get to the peak… or… to death. Whatever she saw… I remember it wasn’t good. That’s why… she rewrote our memories… why she added herself to our group. She had a plan for us… she says it’s her way of showing her friends mercy… and… I believe that.”
Zeil sighed in hopelessness, “Wish I could say the same… Pike… Everest… Maybe even Fuji too… I don’t know… all I do know is she has gone too far.”
Kiloman asked, “Will you fight her?”
Zeil shook his head, “I made a vow to never kill until the day I see Zecora and tell her the truth… and I’m willing to keep it.”
Kiloman smiled, “An honorable vow… though… it’s a shame that such a vow need be made in the first place.”

Zeil nodded, “I know… but it had to be done. Zecora would never forgive me if I had to harm others to return to her. I'll still defend myself if attacked, but I won’t take a life.”
Kiloman nodded as he looked at Zeil, “I guess… that’s why Hotham trusts you.”
Zeil could only smile at the comment as he continued pulling Kiloman through the tunnels. When Kiloman saw his smiled, he too smiled before looking down at the rope tourniquet on his arm as he mumbled too quietly for Zeil to hear, “Thank you Zeil… I know you intend to get me back safely… but I’m not fated to survive… and I won’t weigh you down any longer.”
With that Hotham silently untied the tourniquet and let the rope fall to the ground quietly enough that Zeil didn’t notice. Seeing his wound as it started bleeding profusely, the Kiloman looked back up at the ceiling of the cave as he smiled peacefully, “Goodbye, my friend.”

Up on the surface, the blizzard had gotten thicker making all visibility outside ten feet almost impossible. However despite this challenge and his breathing which now turned to a slight cough, Hotham continued pushing forward as Angel followed closely behind. As they continued, Hotham looked forward as he spoke, “Angel… are we close? How far to the summit?”
Hiding her depressing feelings, Angel replied, “Only another hundred feet or so… keep the lookout for a large stone hill with small flags on it.”
Hotham smiled, “I see… then… lets finish this.”
With that, Hotham continue pushing forward as Angel could only wonder when he too would retrieve his original memories.”

Back in the cave, Zeil stopped when he found that the tunnel he was following led to a dead end with only a high pit entrance above it with its signature ice cap as the ceiling. Looking up at the ceiling, Zeil sighed, “Well Kiloman… looks like were climbing…”
Without waiting for a response, Zeil reached into his saddlebag as he pulled out a pick and threw it as hard as he could at the Ice roof above. With one attempt the pick hit and shattered the glass like ice as Zeil quickly got out of the way of the falling Ice and layer of snow on top of it. As soon as the falling obstacles hit the ground, the new exit was soon flooded with snow and wind as the blizzard outside could be easily seen from inside the tunnel. Seeing their only way out, Zeil turned back to the sled as he trotted to it and looked through a side bag, “Looks like the storm outside has gotten worse. And if that’s not enough, we’re going to have to climb out. Well… I'll climb, you’re just going to have to hold onto my back till we reach the surface. You think you can do that while I’m climbing?”

As Zeil gathered his climbing gear from the bag, he noticed Kiloman didn’t reply, “Kiloman?”
Zeil looked over at his motionless friend as he started to talk, “Hey Kiloman are you aw-”
All of a sudden, Zeil realized that his friend’s aura was gone as he looked at Kiloman’s arm to see a large amount of blood that ran down the sled and trailed behind them. Seeing this, Zeil looked at Kiloman’s peaceful expression as he sighed, “Kiloman… thanks for being a good friend. Now… rest in peace.”
With that, Zeil took a blanket from his saddlebag and covered Kiloman’s body as he looked back to the wall, tightened his cold weather clothing and put his snow goggles on, “I’m coming Hotham… just hope I get to you before Angel makes her move.”
With that said, Zeil trotted to the wall as he buried the pick into the wall before climbing higher and doing the same with a second pick. Using everything he had learn Zeil continued to scale the wall as he reached the top and carful climbed up while fighting the strong winds and thick snow that fell around him. With his surrounding almost completely covered in white haze, Zeil tried to sense Hotham and Angel’s aura as he mumbled, “Good… Hotham is still alive… let’s just hope I get to them before Angel hurts him too.”

Not fare ahead, Hotham and angel continued pushing through the storm as Hotham led, coughing but not slowing his pace. As they pushed forward, Angel felt a little confuse, they were practically at the summit, but so far Hotham showed no sign of his returning memories. As they pressed on, it wasn’t long till Hotham could see something dark ahead in the white haze. Knowing what it was the two continued till the small jagged hill ahead was revealed with a number of metal stakes in the top, some without, but others with small flags signifying nations, family crests, and others who have successfully completed the climb. Looking at the summit, Hotham smiled as he spoke, “There… now… to finish this.”
Angel stopped and watched from the base of the small hill as Hotham climbed the jagged edged of the miniature mountain till he reached the peak then placed his hoof firmly against the ground as he spoke, “I did it mates… I made it to the peak. Pike… Everest… probably Kiloman by now… we all made it lads… I just hope Zeil is alright.”

Angel watched from the base of the hill as she called, “If you have a flag… now is the time to plant it.”
The surrounding blizzard let up slightly but visibility didn’t change as Hotham smiled, “Angel… you know I don’t climb for the fame, not even a chance to leave a mark.” He turned to her, “I climb to see the world and meet the ponies in it… just as… I met you… four days ago.”
Angel felt nervous but was able to hide it as she replied, “So… your memories are back?”
Hotham climbed down from the peak as he replied, “They are… they have been for a while now.”
Angel nodded, “How long?”
Hotham coughed then replied, “Not sure… I guess a few second before that scrap you pulled me out of on the trail… the one that killed Everest.”
Angel didn’t reply, instead she was wanting to see how Hotham was going to continue as he smiled, “I was supposed to die there… wasn’t I. that rock was supposed to kill me, but… you saved me.”
Angel tried to hold back her tears as she replied, “I… I did…”

Hotham continued with his smiled, “Why?... if I was supposed to die there… why save me?”
She couldn’t hold her tears anymore as she looked to the ground and tried to reply, “I… I don’t know…”
Hotham approached her as he put his hoof on her shoulder and replied, “I do… Because despite what you had to do… you have a good heart. You try to show mercy to those who die here… and that’s… that’s why I’m in love with you. And not just cuz I had faint memories of you when growing up that you planted yourself. I’ve loved you ever since I met you those four measly days ago. I could see your kindness then… even before you gave us that terrible news. I saw your heart… and I wanted to have a place in it.”
Angel continued looking at the ground as the tears fell, “But… I killed them… I took your friends lives before their time… I don’t… I don’t des-”

Hotham placed his hoof against her chin and moved her head to look up at him as he replied, “You did it to spare them the pain. You showed my… our friends mercy… when you could have easily left them to their fate. You may be what you are… but you still have heart… and that’s why I love you.”
That said, Hotham leaned in and kissed Angel as she could only close her eyes and embrace the kiss from the stallion she loved. After the kiss ended, Hotham’s fatigue took hold as the weak stallion fell to the ground as Angel caught him, “Hotham no…”
Hotham smiled in his weakened state as he spoke, “It’s alright Angel… I see now… I wasn’t traveling the world to see it… I was looking for something… I was looking… for you.”

Tears fell from her face onto his as she replied, “I… I don’t deserve a pony like you… I don’t deserve anypony… I never loved in life… so why should I now…”
Hotham placed his hoof against her cheek, but before he could say anything, the two heard Zeil in the distance as he called, “Hotham! Angel!... are your there!?!”
With the thick haze still preventing the two from seeing Zeil, Hotham spoke, “Angel… take me… just like you did the rest… but… let our friend live.”
Angel’s tears didn’t stop as her expression showed objection, “What?... but he-”
“Is a stallion in love… he pushes his way through danger and adventure just like I did to find the mare he was meant to be with… the only difference is that he knows where to find his.”
Angel shook her head, “He can’t be trusted… he isn’t a changeling… I… I don’t know what he is, but he can’t be trusted.”

Hotham smiled, “Weather he can or not isn’t the point. He is a good, honest bloke with a goal. And I want him to feel the happiness I feel now. I want him to know how it feels, to tell the mare you love the truth.”
Angel looked into her love’s eyes as she tried to reply, “I… I… I don’t know if I can…”
tears built up in Hotham’s eyes as he replied, “Try… that’s all I ask…” he closed his eyes and laid back, “Now… I’m ready… do what you must.”
Angel placed her hoof against his cheek as she spoke, “I love you Hotham…”
Hotham smiled peacefully as he placed his hoof against her cheek, “And I love you… My Angel of the Mountain.”
With that said Hotham and Angel leaned closer together as they kissed for the last time. During their kiss, Hotham’s breathing slowed until it finally ceased, as Hotham’s hoof slowly fell from Angel’s cheek as the humble leader of the group slowly passed away in her arms. With tears falling from her face, Angel stopped kissing him as she held him close as she cried for her fallen love.

Not far away, Zeil pushed through the seemingly endless white haze as he tried to get close to where he could sense Angel and Hotham’s aura. However as he pushed on, Hotham’s aura suddenly vanished, as this worried Zeil as he mumbled, “Hotham… no…”
Worried for his friend, Zeil picked up his pace as he called, “ANGEL!!! HOTHAM!!! WHERE ARE YOU!?! HOTH-”
All of a sudden, Zeil silenced himself as he looked through the haze to see a silhouette ahead of him. As Zeil got closer the image become clearer to him as he saw Angel still holding Hotham close to her. As soon as he saw them, Zeil’s expression showed anger as he spoke as calmly as he could, “Angel…”
Hearing her name, Angel laid Hotham on the ground at her hooves as she stood up and looked away trying to hide her crying. Not seeing her tears, Zeil spoke, “Hotham… he’s dead… isn’t he…”
Angel didn’t even look his way as she nodded in silence. Zeil asked, “Did you kill him?”
Once again, Angel nodded in silence as Zeil replied in anger, “How could you… how could you be so heartless… you know he loved you right? He cared enough to wait till we reach the summit so he could confess at the perfect moment! And he did… didn’t he?”
Angel repeated her actions one last time as she nodded in silence.

Zeil yelled in anger, “THEN WHY!?! Why would you kill him after he told you how he felt? Why would you be so cruel? TELL ME!!!”
“ENOUGH!!!”
With that yell, Angel stomped her hoof against the ground as something completely unworldly happened. When her hoof hit the ground, the blizzard around them cleared out in a wave fashion as if she created a shockwave that immediately dispersed the snow, wind, haze, and all, leaving only the overcast sky, and the now clear summit. Confused and somewhat nervous, Zeil took a step back as Angel slowly turned to him with tears running down her face, “Don’t talk as if this is unexpected. This was your plan the whole time wasn’t it? You wanted them dead… didn’t you?”
Zeil was confused, “Wh-what?”
Angel glared at Zeil with anger as she continued, “Where is Kiloman?... did you kill him? He better not have suffered, otherwise… you will.”

Seeing that her threat was real, Zeil readied himself as he replied, “I didn’t kill him… you did!”
Angel’s tears still fell as she yelled, “Lier! You intended on all of them dyeing didn’t you! Why are you here!?! What possible reason did you have to come here!?!”
Zeil glared back as he replied, “I came to cross the mountain… nothing more!”
Angel yelled, “WHEN WILL YOU STOP LIEING TO ME!?!”
As she yelled, Angel swung her hoof across in a horizontal fashion as a massive gist of frozen wind blew from her hoof tossing Zeil to the ground. Worried for his life, Zeil quickly shuffled to his hooves, but as he stood back up, he saw that Angel had completely vanished as her empty cold weather clothing fell to the ground. Confused Zeil looked around but as he did, water rose from the ground covering his hooves before solidifying into ice making it impossible for Zeil to move. Zeil struggled in place as he tried to free his hooves before he heard a dark tone come from the peak next to all the flags planted from the previous climbers, “Did… Did he suffer? Kiloman I mean… did he suffer upon his death?”

Zeil looked to the peak to see Angel standing there next to the flags as he replied, “I… I don’t know… he bled to death while I tried to pull him to safety.”
Tears in her eyes still ran down her face as she replied, “Then… I failed. I didn’t let him pass peacefully.”
Zeil replied in anger, “Let him pass?... so you did intend on murdering them… You murdered all of them! Pike, Everest, Hotham, You murdered them all! And what about Fuji… Did you murder him too?”
Angel looked at the ground in shame as she replied, “No… he was spared, he is supposed to return in five years and reach the summit alone.”
Zeil was confused, “Spared? What are you talking about?”
Angel sighed, “Every few weeks, a climber tries to challenge this mountain… and as soon as I see them… I can see whether they succeed or not. And, if they do not… I am forced to either watch them suffer… or let them die peacefully.”

Zeil gave her an angry look as he replied while keeping his struggling hooves subtle, “Peacefully?... Pike suffered until his last breath! Everest fell to his death an-” He paused as he remembered Everest’s vanishing aura, “Wait… he didn’t did he… somehow you killed him before he fell.”
Angel nodded, “Yes… I guided his soul away from his body so that he could feel no pain. I did the same with Pike right before we went to bed that night, and with Hotham just now… but… I didn’t get the chance to guide Kiloman away before he passed. He suffered… just as I did.”

Zeil gave her a confused look, “Just as you did?... what are you tal-” He remembered his dreams as his expression became skeptic, “Angela?”
Angel was surprised, “What? But… how did you?”
Zeil replied, “The passed few nights, I’ve had visons of your death. You died not fare from here didn’t you? Before you reached the summit… in one of these pits. You… froze to death… here… alone.”
Angel nodded, “I did… but… I wasn’t able to pass on like the rest. Since I was the first, I was cursed to become this mountain’s guardian. And… to live for eternity… as this.”
With that, Angel’s body slowly dissolved into a white haze as the fog took form of a large Pony that towered higher than her previous form. Zeil looked at her new appearance as her pegasus aura changed into something he had never felt before. Staring at Angel in wonder, Zeil held his silence as Angel saw his confusion, “Look at me… look at what suffering alone here did to me. Now… I’m a wendigo. A monster… just like you.”

Zeil was slightly offended, “What? Who are you calling a monster?”
Angel rolled her eyes, “Don’t give me that… I told you I can see the fate of everypony who steps onto this mountain, but you… you’re hidden from my sight… and only two beings are hidden from my ability, Immortals… and demons. And you Zeil…”
She raised her hoof as a spike made from ice shot up from the ground right passed Zeil’s face as the razer like ice ran along his face cutting off his snow goggles and leaving blood to run out of his cut and down his face. As the blood dripped from his cheek, Angel continued with an angry look, “You… are not immortal. So… care to tell me exactly what you are?”
Seeing no way out of his frozen trap, Zeil sighed as he replied, “Honestly, I’m a changeling, but I’d be lying if I said that there wasn’t something else in me… I don’t know what, who, or even why it is… but… whatever it is… it’s evil.”
Angel gave him an untrusting look as she replied, “Really?... then I have no choice.”
Zeil gave her a confused look, “What?”

Angel nodded as her haze of a body hovered over the peak, “Since, your fate wasn’t set… the option to let you live or die was mine to make… and if there is even a hint of evil in you… then I can’t let you leave here. If you have any last words say them now… I promise, I'll make it painless.”
Zeil’s expression became angry, “Pike, Everest, Kiloman, and Hotham… They died trying to reach the place your standing right now… So if you want to kill me, fine! Go ahead and try… But I’m reaching that point…”
Zeil suddenly changed into a large manticore as his quick increase in size caused both the ice on his hooves and his cold weather clothing to shred away, “FOR THEM!!!”
With his manticore size apparent, Zeil charged towards Angel and the summit already knowing that he couldn’t really fight her, all he could do was charge passed her and make a run for it, though he didn’t intend on going anywhere before touching the summit at least once. With his plan in mind Zeil charged at the hovering haze, however before he could reached the mound, Angel raised her hooves outward as the winds and snow returned as the instantaneous blizzard quickly cut out everything he could see in front of him as Zeil slowed down before continuing with his manticore paws trying to block the wind from his face, as he reached the edge of the small mound where Angel and the peak sat.

Knowing that his original plan of charge, attack, and run was now reduced to just pass and run, Zeil changed back into his zebra form as he looked towards the summit to see if Angel was still there. However, with her haze of a body completely blending into the blizzard, Zeil knew that seeing the hovering wendigo would be impossible, so with his goal of touching the peak still in mind, He started climbing the small mound as he continued towards the summit. After reaching the peak, Zeil franticly looked around to try and find Angel, but after seeing that she wasn’t around he could only mumble to himself, “Is she gone… No… she’s still here, she has to be.”
Determined to continue with his plan Zeil turned around towards his next destination but as he did, he paused when he saw Angel in her pegasus form hovering in the air less the six inches from his face. Without expecting it, Zeil could only stare in surprise as Angel looked him in the eye as she puckered her lips and blew a small gust of air into his face.

As soon as her breath hit him, Zeil felt a strange and painful sensation fill his body as his lungs locked up in the cold, an intense chill ran down his spin that made him dizzy, and an intense brain freeze feeling filled his entire body. Too dizzy to stand, Zeil fell to the ground as the jagged hill he was standing on caused him to roll down before hitting the base of the mountain’s peak. Laying too dizzy to move, Zeil mumbled, “I… I have to keep going… I have to… for them… for Zecora…”
With that said, Zeil’s sight went dark as he passed out. Seeing that she had won, Angel landed next to Zeil as she mumbled, “I can’t let you live… but I won’t let you suffer. This is all I can do for you now. Rest in peace Zeil.”

With that Angel reached out to Zeil and placed her hoof against his head, but as she did, her mind was instantaneously filled with vision of his future. Shocked by what she saw, Angel stood still as every instance of Zeil’s future swept through her mind bringing with it, fear, worry, and sympathy for the wounded changeling. Angel then quickly stepped away from her foe as she looked at her hoof and spoke, “That… his future?… but… how… why would… and… how could he continue after that?... I… I can’t let him die here… As terrible as it is, he must continue his journey.” She looked at Zeil’s unconscious face, “He must live out his fate.”
With that Angel’s body dissolved into a haze of snow and wind as the miniature blizzard consumed Zeil’s body as both he and Angel vanished into thin air.

Hours later Zeil awoke in a bed inside of a small room as he felt too dizzy to pick himself up. Rubbing his head in confusion Zeil looked around the small room. It wasn’t too big, but the wooden exterior of the room seemed to resemble a log cabin with a window that revealed a thick snowy day outside. As Zeil closely examined his surroundings, the door opened as a young female Ibex entered, “Well… look who finally rejoined the land of the living.”
Still too weak to sit up, Zeil looked at the Ibex as he asked, “Where… where am I?”
The Ibex smiled, “The Stranded Tavern, at the base of Angela’s Peak. I don’t know when you got here, but you were here when I started my shift a few hours ago.”
Zeil tried to remember what happened, “A few hours? But… how did I get here?”
The Ibex smiled as she turned to leave, “The manager knows more and can fill you in, wait here while I get him.”
The ibex left the room for only a few minutes as an old pegasus stallion entered and smiled, “So you’re awake. Good to see another return from Angela’s Peak. Despite the little nick on your face.”
Zeil finally gained enough strength to sit up as he touched the cut on the side of his face as he replied, “I guess I did… how did I get here?”

The manager smiled as he looked to his employee, “Our guest is probably in need of a warm meal… could you go prepare him one?”
The Ibex nodded, “Sure… I’m on it.”
As soon as his employee left the room, the manager closed the door and locked it as he turned to Zeil and spoke, “What’s your name son?...”
Zeil replied, “Zeil…”
The Stallion nodded, “Zeil eh… So… what do you remember?”
Zeil tried to think as he replied, “I… remember the mountain’s peak, and… um…”
Zeil felt uneasy about how to describe Angel as the old stallion could see his indecisive thought as he smiled, “So… you found out the truth about Angel didn’t you?”

Zeil gave the old stallion a surprised look, “Wh- what did you say?”
The Pegasus trotted to the window as he looked out into the snow, “You think you’re the only one to reach the summit and live? Angel has helped many of us reach that peak. Despite how many who die in the process.”
Zeil looked down in anger as he replied with a depressed tone, “Yea… I know.”
Hearing the discouraging tone, the old stallion looked back at Zeil as he spoke, “How many did you lose?”
Assuming the pegasus knew more than he was leading on, Zeil could only sigh as he replied, “Four…”
The pegasus nodded as he pulled out paper and a pencil, “I see… Their names?”
Thinking this was for identification reasons, Zeil continued, “Pike…an earth pony from Equestria, Everest… a large earth pony from around the Titan’s Citadel, Kiloman… a friendly earth pony from Zebrica, and Hotham… the leader of us from the outback.”

The Stallion jotted the info down, then nodded as he looked out the window as he replied, “Do you resent her for it?”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… they were good ponies… good friends. One was even in love with her… and still… she killed them.”
The pegasus nodded, “Is that so… and yet she spared you… Why is that ya think?”
Zeil sighed again as he shook his head, “I… I don’t know…”
The stallion replied, “Easy… It just wasn’t your time. Angel… or Angela as I knew her, only takes those who aren’t fated to survive. It’s her cures to bear, and… I can only feel sorrow for such a burden.”
Zeil replied, “I understand why she did it… but if she can see how they should die, then why doesn’t she save them? Why watch them die when she can just do what she can to save them before they die? She did it with Hotham, she pushed him out of the way of a falling boulder, but then she still killed him later.”
The older stallion nodded, “The pony she saved… did he seem fine after she saved him?”
Zeil thought to himself, “Actually… he didn’t. He seemed out of breath afterword.”

The old pony nodded, “Exactly… Death begets death… When fate decides it, your time has come, and no matter how you try, you can’t escape it. She saved his life, but what would have killed him afterword would have been altitude sickness, frost bite, or something much worse.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
The stallion nodded, “It’s true… she saved him, but in the end, something else would have taken him… something worse. Let’s face it, she tries to save everypony she can, but in the end, if it’s their fate to die… then fate be done.”

Zeil could tell that he was trying to defend her, but his feelings couldn’t be convinced as he held his silence. Seeing his reaction the older stallion sighed as he replied, “Well… despite all that’s happened, the fact remains that you have survived, and after reaching the summit… congratulations.”
The older stallion trotted towards the door as he unlocked it and spoke one last time, “I know your still angry with her… but remember, you lost four friends… think about how many she has seen die. Friend, foe, complete stranger, no matter who they are, it can’t be an easy thing to witness... not as often as she has.”
Without waiting for a response, the old stallion left the room as Zeil could only sit in the bed thinking about his words.

Hours later Zeil went down into the lounge of the large tavern, but with the day already over, there were almost no ponies there other than the tavern owner as he sat in a chair whittling with a small knife and a plank of wood. As the old stallion passed his time, Zeil approached him as he spoke, “I thought about what you said.”
The old pegasus blew away the wood shaving from his project as he replied, “Really… and?”
Zeil sighed, “I agree that what she does must be a terrible burden, but… that doesn’t mean I can forgive her for what she did. Fact is, we trusted her… we were all friends and she was one of us. How can you forgive a friend who turns on you?”

The old stallion nodded as he continues whittling on the plank, “So when your friends realized what was happening… did they turn on her? Or did they at least say they felt betrayed? Did they even spite her in any way?”
Zeil thought to himself, then he realized, none of them showed even the slightest hint of resentment towards Angel, even Kiloman who had all his memories back showed no anger towards her. Through the entire climb, he could feel the emotions of all his friend except for Angel, and at no time did any of them show anger or distrust. Not in him after revealing his changeling form, and not in her during the entire climb. As Zeil thought about this fact, the old stallion could see his answer as he smiled, “They didn’t… did they?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “No… not even once.”
The stallion brushed off the last bit of dust from his project as he examined it closely and replied, “Then they knew their fate, and were grateful she tried to make it peaceful for them. So… if they wouldn’t hold a grudge… why should you?”

Seeing how he was in the wrong, Zeil sighed as he sat down and replied, “I guess you’re right. But… it still hurts. Losing my friends like that.”
The old stallion stood up from his chair as he trotted to a wall full of plaques and replied, “Then maybe this will make you feel better.”
The old pegasus found an empty nail in the wall as he hung the newly made plaque while Zeil looked at it in surprise, the plaque held his name along with all the names of the ponies in his party. Pike, Everest, Kiloman, and Hotham were skillfully carved into the plank with Zeil’s name at the bottom with a star next to it. Seeing this Zeil asked, “What is this?”
The Skilled pegasus smiled, “What’s it look like? It’s a plaque dictating your team in congratulations for reaching the summit. This wall holds all the names of those who challenge Angela’s Peak.”

Zeil looked at all the plaque on the wall and could see that each one had at least one or two names with a star on it as he asked, “Okay, so what’s the star mean?”
The pegasus continued, “The star shows the few who carried the memories of the rest to the peak and back.”
Zeil looked at the stallion, “You mean… the survivors?”
The old stallion nodded, “In a harsher sense… yes… though some without stars did make it to the peak, they were unable to return with their lives and so, as long as one in their group has returned, they all are remembered. Just as I… remember Angela.”

Zeil looked at the old pegasus in surprise, “You, knew Angela? The real Angela?”
He nodded, “Yes… she is my aunt. She taught me how to climb mountains even though many said she couldn’t. So… when she vanished on Angela’s Peak, I made it my goal to finish what she started. That’s why I named the mountain after her.”
That said, the old stallion pointed to a frame at the middle of the wall that showed a much younger version of himself standing on the summit with a framed photo of Angela in his hoof. As Zeil looked at the photograph, the old pegasus smiled, “She didn’t reveal herself to me… but every now and then I see her guiding some climber onto the mountain. Then I hear stories of those who… don’t make it back. Almost all were either in a deep pain, or were close to it, but thanks to her, their pain was cut short.”
Zeil looked back at the stallion, “And they agree with what she did?”

The stallion shook his head, “Not all of them, some spite her for it, some try to fight back when they realize what’s about to happen. I even hear some have even tried turning on her and attacking her with their tools. But every time I hear the stories, there are always tears in her eyes. Angela… was never a bad pony, she never had even the urge to hurt anypony let alone kill them for no reason. So… if she is truly doing these things… then she would only do it to prevent something worse.”
Zeil asked, “How are you so sure?”
The stallion smiled, “Because, if I was fated to freeze to death on some god forsaken mountain… then I would want somepony to put me out of my misery too.”
Zeil thought about his statement but didn’t reply as the old stallion yawned before looking at a nearby clock, “Well, I think I’m going to call it a night. Since you made it to the summit, you’ve earned yourself another free night and a few extra meals here on us. Just be sure you don’t waste what Angela saved.”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “I intend to leave tomorrow anyways, I have a long journey to make.”
The stallion nodded, “Then if I don’t see you, safe travels.”
As the stallion trotted passed, Zeil stopped him, “By the way?... how did you find me anyways? Was I laying in the snow or something?”
The stallion smiled, “When a snow storm blows through, there is no telling what it may leave behind. I suppose you just blew onto our doorstep. No different than the rest. When you’ve seen the things I’ve seen around here, you’ll only give yourself a headache trying to explain what can’t be. So me… just let it go.”
With nothing more to say on the subject the old stallion trotted up out of the lobby and to his room to sleep.

The next day, just passed noon, Zeil was trotting out of the town and away from Angela’s peak as he made his way towards vast grasslands. When he reached the top of a hill, Zeil took one last look back towards the mountain as he started to think about all he had been through. His friend, the challenges they faced, the laughter they shared, then… the tragic loss. When he turned back to his path, an unmistakable aura appeared behind him as he sighed and spoke without turning around, “You have a lot of nerve showing yourself to me again.”
Zeil turned around to see Angel in her pegasus form standing between him and Angela’s Peak as she spoke, “I had to… despite everything… I still have to warn you.”
Guessing what the warning was about, Zeil shook his head as he trotted passed her, “If you’re worried I'll return, don’t bother, I won’t be coming back here… for me this is a one way trip.”
Angel replied, “You were right… when I touched you I could see two beings within you. You, the changeling… and something else.”

Zeil stopped trotting as he turned to her and replied, “So is that why you saved me?”
Angel shook her head, “No… I saved you for two reasons. One because it was Hotham’s last request and two, because you weren’t fated to die just yet.”
Zeil gave her a suspicious look, “Not fated… so you saw my future?”
Angel’s expression showed worry as she replied, “I did…”
Zeil was intrigued, “And?”
Angel shook her head as she gave him a serious look, “One with an important future must never know his fate. It could endanger it, him, or others.”
Zeil sighed, “Then what are you here to warn me about? So fare you’ve only told me things I already know. I have a long trip to take and I can’t waste my time screwing arou-”
“Aside from demons and immortals, I can see the future of others simply by looking at them. But you… when I looked at you, I could only see the future of the one who had the most control, and since it was immortal, I saw nothing.”

Zeil was confused, “Wait… the one who had the most control? What does that mean?”
Angel sighed in irritation, “It means, watch your other self… he has a stronger hold on you then you think.”
With that, Angel turned around and started trotting back towards the mountain, as Zeil stood thinking about her warning, but before she was too far away she stopped as she spoke, “For the record… despite how it all ended…I enjoyed this group amongst all the others.” She smiled, “Pike’s southern personality, Everest’s teddy bear like kindness. Kiloman’s friendly disposition, and… even your sense of determination. And Hotham… I truly loved him… His sense of adventure and discovery with no concern for personal credit. Not to mention his willingness to meet and trust others without any judgment what-so-ever. I loved him for that… and I would have gladly saved him and stayed with him if I could. But… it just wasn’t meant to be. Zeil… You have a mare who loves you deeply back home, and should you return to her… you may get your happily ever after. Just… don’t forget about your friends, don’t forget their faces, their hopes and their dreams. Because… in you, they still exist.”
And with those as her parting words, the Angel of Angela’s peak, dissolved into snow as the wind carried her out of sight.

Bk4/Ch1 Eden's Kiss

Book 4/Chapter 1
Eden’s Kiss
Year 01, Month 07, Day 04

Vast hills Covered in green grass littered the horizon as Zeil made his way through one of the most beautiful landscaped he had ever seen. As he trotted along side a stone fence, Zeil paused when he noticed some rare herbs growing against it as he started collecting some for his potions. However as he did, he noticed that a few of the plants were cut with a knife which meant that this herb, that wasn’t used in food, was partially collected by another. Curious as to who collected these same herbs Zeil continued gathering what he needed while leaving one plant untouched so that it could reproduce. Knowing that he had enough, Zeil placed the ingredients in his bag and continued on the trail, however after a few steps, Zeil started to feel an intense headache as the pain caused him to stop traveling as he leaned against the wall gripping his head in pain.

As the headache pulsated in his mind, Zeil started to see vision of the ruins of an ancient city that rested within the pit of a dormant volcano. Then the visions changed to a large dome shaped room that resembled a crypt only in the middle of the room wasn’t a casket, it was a chest Centered between six pillars, each with a glowing gem imbedded in the side. As the clear view of the old worn chest remained the focus of his vision, the lock on the chest popped open as black sand began seeping from the chest like an overflowing cup. As the sand piled up on the ground around the chest Zeil continued watching the black grains, till they sprang to life and shot into his direction as his vision ended leaving Zeil to realize that he was laying against the bottom of the stone fence on the trial.

Confused of what he had just gone through, Zeil sat up as he rubbed his head, “What?... what was that? A vision?... or… something else?”
As he thought about what he saw, something else caught his attention as he could hear the sound of a music over the top of the hill. Curious, Zeil disregarded the vision as he made his way up the hill twords its peak. As he reached the summit of the steep hill, Zeil looked in the distance and could see where the music was resonating from. From his position, the cloaked changeling could see a small village in the distance that seemed to be built up the side of one of the tallest hills. As he looked at the small village, Zeil smiled as he mumbled, “Well whatever that vision was, it can wait. I need some supplies, and the money to buy them… maybe I can sell a few of my remedies to the local doctor.”
With that, Zeil started trotting down the hill and towards the village. After arriving at the small hillside settlement, Zeil was amazed at the sizes of the houses. Though they were in few, the houses had an abnormally large door, even for the residents which according to the aura Zeil could sense, were horses.

With none of the villagers out in the road, Zeil decided to check where the music was coming from as the bagpipe music echoed from a pub in the center of the village where most of the village’s aura was gathered. As Zeil approached the large bat swing doors that were at eye level to him, the curious changeling could hear a loud commotion inside as the residents of the small settlement played music and drank their stress away. With no hesitation, Zeil entered the pub as the loud commotion of the noisy horses ceased as soon as they laid eyes on their visitor. Equally shocked, Zeil stood just inside the doors of the pub as he looked at the unexpected residents of the hillside town. The creatures were horses as Zeil’s changeling instinct confirmed, but what his senses wouldn’t tell him was that they were all shire horses, the largest and strongest breed as the entire pub stood at least two to three feet taller than their zebra disguised visitor.

Realizing he was staring, Zeil cleared his throat and put the hood of his cloak down as he made his way through then now quiet and curious herd towards the bar. As he trotted, Zeil could hear the residents whisper amongst themselves, “Eh?… what’s up with ‘em?” “I dono… he’s a wee lad ain’t he?” “And what’s with that getup? Did he wakeup from a nap or some’n? What’s with the dark night gown and stripe pajamas?” “Look at em’ he’s smaller then me sheepdog and practically the same color too.” “Ya think he’s lost? Wee lad like that is far from his mama’s dinner table.”
As the whispers continued, Zeil paid no attention to what was said. Despite how uncomfortable the comments were, he could only sense curiosity and no hostility from the herd as the whispers slowly subsided and the surrounding shire horses went back to their merriment. Relived that his presence was slowly being forgotten, Zeil approached the bar as he climbed onto one of the tall stools so he could look over the counter in front of him. As he looked over the bar at the bartender the shire smiled sarcastically as he spoke, “Ya seem a bit far from home wee laddie? Ya old enough to be in here? You barely look of age for anythin’ I’m servin’.”

Zeil replied with an unentertained tone, “I’m older then I look… do you happen to know if there is a doctor in this village?”
The bartender seemed concerned, “A doc?”
Zeil explained, “I’m not hurt or anything, I’m an enchanter with a number of remedies to sell.”
The bartender gave Zeil a suspicious look as he replied, “Closest thing we have to a doc is the clan druid. Ya can find him on the northern side of the hill, only home there so ya cannot miss it… but I should warn ya laddie, he ain’t the uh… normal type if ya get my meanin’. He may seem a wee bit strange, but he’s as reliable as they come… in small doses.”
Zeil gave the bartender a confused look, “Not normal? What do you mean?”
Another patron slammed his mug on the other end of the bar as he yelled, “Another ale! Hurry your plot McNess!”
He bartender turned away as he replied, “You’ll see for yourself laddie. Just mention you’re an enchanter and he’ll welcome ya kindly. Oh… and if you’re curious of his name… its Cunningham.”

As the bartender turned to help his other customers, Zeil could only wonder about the strange tone the bartender gave him as he turned towards the exit and started making his way towards it. Zeil crossed the rowdy pub and putting his hood up as another large stallion in the room stepped into his path and spoke with a slurred tone, “Aye there wee laddie… y-ya seem a might tiny to be roaming round in a town like this. Say… since I’m a lad of good uh… generosity… s’pose I’ll make a deal with ya. If ya spot me a drink, then I'll be obliged to look after ya. Y’see with a big tough stallion like me protectin’ ya. I do not think Nopony will be messin’ with ya. So… wha-do-ya say laddie?”
With no concern in the rambling of a drunk stallion, Zeil trotted passed him as he replied, “I’ll pass…”
Annoyed that he was ignored, the stallion turned around and started speaking in anger, “Ack! Ya think you can just push me aside like some tat? Who do ya think yo-”
Hearing him, Zeil paused as he turned around and glared at the large stallion, “What was that?...”
The large drunk stallion stood with a nervous stare as Zeil’s bone chilling glance made him too worried to respond. As soon as he saw the nervous expression on the large shire’s face, Zeil realized what he said as he decided to ignore the stallion and left the pub with nothing more to say to him. Outside Zeil mumbled, “Why… did I say that?... strange, if I didn’t know any better I would think I was trying to start a fight. I should probably watch my temper a little closer.”

A few minutes later, Zeil made his way onto the other side of the large hill as the shadow of the setting sun casted over the lone house that was there. As Zeil approached the house, he notice a stallion outside wearing old rage as the large shire was tilling the soil for crops. Seeing the only horse in the area, Zeil approached him as he spoke, “Um… Excuse me? Are you the doctor… or uh… druid, Cunningham?”
The large stallion stopped tilling the soil as he turned towards Zeil and gave him a careless look. As soon as Zeil got a good look of the stallion he started to think that the bartender was right about him being abnormal. The old stallion was about the same height as the rest of the shire, but this one seems much skinnier. The torn and worn rags he wore were thin, but were in multiple layers so the holes in the outer layers didn’t reveal his jet black coat underneath. Around his neck, he wore a necklace from small animal bones with the largest of them being an eagle’s skull that rested in the center of the necklace against his chest. And if that didn’t make him strange enough, Zeil couldn’t help but feel a separate aura resonating from this stallion. He was a shire horse like he looked, but it seemed as if there was something more to him then what met the eye, something that felt uneasy.

As the old stallion looked back at Zeil with no expression, he spoke, “Cunningham eh?... who’s askin’? If you’re in need of a doc lad, I can’t help ya. Aside from potion remedies, I can’t cure no ailments.”
Zeil shook his head, “Actually… I’m here to sell some remedies. I’m an enchanter, and… well I’m a little low on money, so I was wondering if you would be interested in buying a few of my cures or ingredients. I’ve been gathering quite a bit in my travels.”
The old stallion gave Zeil a curious look as he thought to himself before replying, “An enchanter ya say? Hmm… What is the most powerful potion ya got laddie?”
Zeil thought to himself before replying, “Hmm… well… I have a growth potion for plants, but I don’t-
“Show me…”
Confused by the stallion’s interruption, Zeil nodded as he put his cloak’s hood down before reaching into his saddlebag and pulling out a small vial with a murky brown potion inside. As Cunningham took the vial, he took one look at the potion and shook his head, “Bahh, it’s a dud… poor quality at best.”
Zeil was confused, “W-what?”

Cunningham pointed at the flask, “Well look at it… it’s far too thick for its own good. Ya used too much oaken sap. Ya could a used half as much and still have the same result as b’for. Poor craftsmanship is what it is, not befittin’ of any good enchanter at all.”
Feeling a little insulted, Zeil replied, “And… you can do better?”
The old shire chuckled at the statement, “Better? Lad, this is foals play to what I can do. This way laddie.”
With that, Cunningham tossed the potion back to its owner as he waited for Zeil to catch it before turning to his home and trotting toward it. As the two reached the door of the home, Cunningham opened the door as he called, “Offspring! Where are ya lad?”
Zeil gave him a confused look, “You call your foal Offspring?”
Cunningham gave him a strange look, “Foal?”

At that moment, a large black raven flew out of the corner of the room as it landed on the shire’s shoulder and squawked loudly. As soon as the raven landed, Cunningham smiled, “Ah, there ya are lad. Go fetch my growth potion, I want to prove a point to this wee wannabe enchanter.”
As the raven flew off, Zeil spoke, “You call your crow offspring?”
Cunningham shook his head, “Nah lad, I call my raven offspring… learn your birds laddie, raven feathers are much more potent then crow feathers in potions.”
As the two waited for Offspring to return with the potion, Zeil looked around the room. The room seemed similar to Zecora’s house with a large cauldron and plenty of bookshelves each with an abundant amount of potions, ingredients, and potion brewing books. Though none were more prominently displayed then a poison joke that was incased in a glass covered vase. As Zeil looked around the raven returned as the bird dropped a small vial into Cunningham’s hoof as he looked at the potion and handed it to Zeil, “There ya are laddie… look at the difference between this and your potion… it’s as plain as day ain’t it?”

With no intention of hearing a reply, Cunningham with the raven on his shoulder, trotted back outside as Zeil looked at both his and Cunningham’s potions together as he immediately spotted the differences between the two. His potion seemed thick closer to mud while the Cunningham’s was thinner and more transparent. Also while his potion seemed more potent, he could see remnants of other ingredients in the mix, while Cunningham’s had no appearance of the other ingredients at all as if it were a simple colored water then a potion. Seeing this, Zeil quickly caught up with Cunningham as he spoke, “Are you sure this even works? Is this even a potion at al-”
Before he could finish Offspring flew in out of nowhere as the clever bird snatched Cunningham’s potion from Zeil’s hoof as it flew over Cunningham’s head and dropped it so that its owner could catch it. After catching the potion Cunningham smiled, “Works? Laddie I’m the best druid the Highlands have to offer, course it works.”

That said, Cunningham tossed the vial over his shoulder as the small glass flask hit a large rock and shattered against it leaving the brown potion scattered across the stone’s surface. Shortly after hitting the stone, the wet part of the rock started quickly growing moss as the grass surrounding the stone also started to grow as the potion’s reaction caused the grass surrounding the stone to grow till it was knee high before stopping. As soon as the grass stopped growing, Zeil stared at the reaction in surprise as Cunningham smiled, “A potion can be like a heart laddie, anypony can act in a way to change things around em’… but it’s up to the quality of their actions that decided whether it be good or bad. That potion ya made… ya teacher did not teach it to ya at all. Fact, ya learned that one from a book… right?”
Zeil remembered the book he learned the spell from in the Castle of the Alicorn Sisters as he nodded, “I did… but… how did you-”
Cunningham smiled, “Lad, every higher leveled potion and spell book written by a true enchanter was written slightly wrong. Potion brewin’ is an art form, only the most skilled can take one look at a recipe and see how it can be improved. Sure the spell will work in a sense, but it’s the quality that matters lad, not the effect. If ya truly want to learn good magic you should stick to potions your teacher teaches ya. Matter a’fact, do ya not have any of those on ya by chance?”

Zeil nodded as he reached into his saddlebag and replied, “I do… but I only have these.”
Zeil pulled out three small vials as he handed them to Cunningham as the large stallion smiled, “Now these are real potions laddie. A cure for the hiccups, a cure for baldness, and a numbing past… little common, but well crafted. You can even see the skill placed behind ‘em. The clarity in each bottle, your teacher was a truly skilled enchanter laddie.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea well… my teacher… didn’t teach me many spells before I left. Most of my lessons were about inner peace and respect for the natural magic around us. But… my time with her… was short. Too short to learn many spells or potions. I wish I could have been with here a little longer.”
Hearing the tone in Zeil’s voice said it all as Cunningham smiled, “Somthin’ tells me that your connection with this teacher a’ yours goes much deeper than just teacher and pupal. Ya said she… So ya teacher was a lass eh?”

Zeil nodded as Cunningham looked back into the potions and spoke, “A mare, makin’ potions as fine as these. A bonnie lass that fine ain’t somethin’ to take lightly. And you… ya fancy her don’t ya laddie?”
Repeating the same action as before, Zeil nodded as Cunningham took the potions with him as he trotted inside, “I cannot pay ya for the stuff you made from that book… but for these… I'll be willin to give ya a room to stay in for the next few days… and as for the other potions ya got… I'll take those as payment for lessons.”
Zeil was confused as he followed the shire back into his house, “Lessons?”
Cunningham nodded as he went inside with the potions in his hoof, “Aye… ya give me those potions and I'll teach ya a trick or two about readin’ potion quality, that way ya don’t go wastein’ anymore ingredients in the future.”

Zeil started feeling suspicious, “Teach me… exactly how long will this take?”
Cunningham replied as he sat the potions in his hoof on a shelf next to a poison joke that was incased in glass, “Only a few days lad… maybe a week at most. If ya want to better manage your supplies, you may want to take me up on this offer laddie. Otherwise you will find it hard makin’ money on the rest of your journey.”
Zeil gave him a distrusting look, “How do you know I was on a journey? How do you know any of this? I didn’t say anything to you. Just who are you?”
Cunningham smiled, “A simple druid lad… that’s all. Ya learned clearly that this world is full of magic, and when ya learn its qualities and its reactions, you can do many things… even see the future.”
Zeil gave him a suspicious look, “Are you saying you can see the future?”
Cunningham shook his head, “No lad… I can’t. But others… can.”

Zeil could see pain in Cunningham’s expression, but rather than asking about it, he decided to let it go as he asked, “So… why offer to teach me anything?”
Cunningham’s expression of sadness faded as he replied, “I would think that your teacher would like to know that ya used her lessons to further your own skills while you were away. After all, her teachin’ was a base for all magic wa’dnt it? So it’s only natural that ya use her teachings to learn more. Right?”
Seeing the logic in the shire’s words Zeil nodded, “I guess.”
Cunningham smiled, “So… it’s agreed then. I'll take these potions off your hooves, and in return, I'll teach ya how to properly make them and to better manage your ingredients… amongst other things. So what do ya say laddie?”
Zeil felt confused about the strange addition to his terms but still nodded as he replied, “Alright… I’ll stay for only a few days… but I can’t stay too long. I still need to get back to Zecora.”
Cunningham nodded, “Ah… so that’s her name… a fine name for a fine lass. It’s settled then, since the day is all but done, we can wait till mornin’ for your first lesson. So get your rest laddie, cuz tomorrow, your lessons begin.”
Zeil followed as Cunningham went into a back room and set up a place for his new guest to sleep.

That night while Zeil slept, strange visions passed through his mind, as he found himself standing in a large open field with a large mountain on the other side that seemed to resemble a dormant volcano with a city in its center. The same city from his vision of the chest earlier. As he recognized the city, Zeil started to feel confused as he looked around to find that in the other side of the field, stood a massive army of all pony races, Earthpony, Pegasi, Unicorn… and even alicorn. Amazed to see such an army which numbered in the thousands, Zeil could only stand in shock as he looked to the head of the army to see a large caravan of the army’s officers. Curious Zeil approached the caravan as he saw a tall pale Alicorn with a red main speaking to an earthpony and a unicorn as she spoke, “Make haste in thy journey. But take heed, Thou should never return until thou is sure it’s safe.”
The unicorn bowed as she replied, "Do not fret your majesty, thou shall ensure the safety of the young princesses. Tis no safer kingdom then that of thine own Equestria.”

The hopeful queen smiled as he nodded, “Princess Platinum, Chancellor Pudding Head. Thou both have thy most sincerest of gratitude.”
Both the earthpony and unicorn nodded in appreciation as the queen looked down at the two little fillies in the group as she hugged her daughters and spoke, “Celestia, Luna. Dost not fear for me. As Queen of Eden, tis thine task to avenge thy kingdom and ensure safety for thee. Till then, Thou should stay together and protect thy sister. For in thine own light, the future will be ensured.”
Surprised, Zeil looked at the two filled as the oldest replied, “Yes mother, Thou will protect Luna with thine own life.”
The young Luna nodded as she spoke, “Mommy… thou will unite with us in Equestria once the fight is won… right?”
The queen smiled as she hugged her youngest daughter, “I will… Once the fight is done, thou will be together again. Now make haste, for time is short.”

With that Chancellor Puddinghead, Princess Platinum, and the two royal fillies left the caravan with a few guards as the queen turned towards the city as an armored pegasus flew up and landed next to her, “Your majesty… The dark alicorn is preparing for an attack… I’m afraid, he has kill all the residents of Eden.”
The queen nodded as she replied with a saddened tone, “Tis a fools thought to assume thy could have stopped this evil from spreading. If only I had the power to protect thy subjects.”
The pegasus nodded as he looked towards the city and replied, “Forgive me if I done speak in the royal tongue… but I think we are passed that. The army of Equestria and Eden are assembled and ready to lay their lives down for you. As am I.”
The queen nodded as she spoke, “Do not speak of thy life as if it were disposable. Though I am pleased to see thee ready to fight for thy kingdom, I would advise thee that if thy life sees no other options than thou must flee to safety.”
The pegasus shook his head, “Commander Hurricane has never fled from a fight before… not even from a Titan… and I don’t plan to now.”

The Queen started smiling at his courage but before he could see her sign of thanks, Commander Hurricane looked to the distant city as he spoke, “There… He’s coming.”
Zeil and the queen looked across the empty field as they saw a large cloud of black dust flying out of the large city in the distance as the pillar like stream flew as high as the clouds above before spreading across the sky. As he watched the rapidly approaching cloud, Zeil notice something strange. What seemed to be dust was actually black airborne sand, and it wasn’t spreading as if it were carried by wind, it was moving as if it were homing in on the army as the army drew their weapons with Commander Hurricane giving the order, “Soldiers, both Eden and Equestrian! Though we stand befor a terrible foe, know that we stand united! For our Kingdoms! For our home! FOR OUR QUEEN!!! ATTACK!!!”
With that order, the thousands of soldiers started charging towards the approaching cloud as Zeil nervously braced himself as the army charged right through him, reminding him that this was all a vision. However as the army charged forward, the black sand cloud in the sky began raining black glass spikes as the fatal rain fell onto the army killing all who were unlucky enough to be pierced by the deadly phenomenon.

Though he knew he was safe, the chaos that surrounded him still sent fear into Zeil’s heart as he watched the brutal show of soldiers dyeing in their charge. Then if that wasn’t bad enough, the glass spiked that were imbedded in the bodies of the soldiers started melting back into black sand as the sand quickly covered, consumed, then devoured the fallen bodies, leaving nothing in its wake, no armor, no flesh, no bone, not even a single drop of blood. As one of the bodies fell right in front of him, Zeil could only step back in horror as it too was devoured by the black sand. Looking at the pile of sand left behind, Zeil could only mumble, “What… what is th-”
At that moment, the pile of sand sprang to life and shot towards him as the shock caused him to wake from the vision and sit up in fear. Breathing deeply, Zeil put his trembling hooves in his face as he spoke, “That… was that a vision… or… a nightmare… I don’t know what’s going on… but something feels bad… as if… it’s all an omen. But then, if it was… why were the princesses there… and… what is that sand?”

Too concerned with his vision, Zeil didn’t notice Cunningham’s aura as the Large Shire stood outside Zeil’s room. As he stood outside with his hoof in the air, Cunningham stared into a small portal that hovered above his hoof as the small potion-made portal revealed to him every detail of Zeil’s dream. After seeing everything Zeil saw, Cunningham mumbled too quietly to be heard, “Hurricane’s last charge… and the extinction of the alicorn race. This lad ain’t who I’m waitin’ for… he’s something else… something worse.”
As the portal disappeared, Cunningham turned to the hall and trotting away with an annoyed expression. As Cunningham entered the main room of his house, Offspring flew towards him and landed on his shoulder as Cunningham spoke with a serious tone, “It would seem that the wee lad can’t be trusted. I thought I felt somthin’ odd about ‘em. I guess… I'll have to kill ‘em.”

After hearing his words, the raven looked at his master and squawked. After hearing the noise Cunningham looked at the bird and replied, “No?... then what would ya suggest? If this lad is as evil as I think, then we need to deal with em’ b’fore he gets a chance to do us in.”
The raven heisted for a few second before flying to the shelf where the druid had placed the recently attained potions. After landing on the shelf, the Raven approached a poison joke that was encased in glass as it pecked the glass then looked back at his owner. Seeing the raven’s actions, Cunningham sighed, “This ain’t ‘bout her lad, he ain’t the one she told us about. This wee changeling is somthin’ different. And seeing the commin’ darkness… this can only mean that his visit wont bode well for us.”
The raven turned around and started pecking at the potions that were the result of Zecora’s teachings as Cunningham saw this too then sighed, “Alright fine… any changeling that can make potions this complex could be of use… but… heed me words bird… if that changeling so much as shows one hint that he and the coming darkness are linked, then I'll do ‘em in meself.”
The raven nodded in agreement as Cunningham sat down at a nearby table and looked at the potion book that sat open in front of him. Then, the old stallion closed the book as he ran his hoof along the name of the book’s author, “Aria… what would you say ‘bout this stranger… would ya give him a chance too?... Like ya gave me?”

Bk4/Ch2 The McHolt Clan Secret

Book 4/Chapter 2
The McHolt Clan Secret
Year 01, Month 07, Day 05

Zeil and Cunningham made their way through the center of the small village as Cunningham spoke, “Ya see laddie, the term druid ‘round here can mean many things, priest, noble, and in cases such as my own, sorcerer. Or as you say, enchanter. Either way, when it comes down to it, I’m here for the clan, as they’re here for me.”
Zeil was curious, “Clan?”
Cunningham smiled as he spoke with a proud tone, “Aye… Welcome to the McHolt Clan. The largest armigerous clan in all the Highlands.”
“Armigerous?”
Cunning ham nodded, “Aye… it means we have no clan chief. So as the clan druid, they look to me for guidance.”

Zeil nodded, “Oh… so, why don’t they just make you the chief then?”
Cunningham shook his head, “It ain’t that simple laddie, some offered it to me, but I turned it down. I just… I ain’t as good as their last chief.”
Zeil asked, “Was he that good?”
Cunningham nodded, “She… was the best this clan could ask for.”
Hearing the pain in his tone, Zeil asked, “What happened to her?”
Cunningham sighed as he spoke with a saddened tone, “She died… ‘bout a year ago.”
Zeil wanted to ask how, but the aura of pain in Cunningham’s emotions was strong, so Zeil decided to drop the subject. Also wanting the subject to end, Cunningham continued, “Anyways, an enchanter such as yourself must know a proper way to use his magic. Quality is everything laddie. Just like actions, good deeds meets good quality. Bad deeds…or…loss of control… can lead to regretful actions… Keepin’ that in mind, there are a select few amongst the clan that you should avoid… such as…” He pointed, “Him.”

Although he wanted to ask about Cunningham’s change in mood when he mentioned bad deeds, Zeil disregarded it as he looked in the direction Cunningham pointed to see only the local pub with nopony around. Confused, Zeil asked, “Who?... you mean the tavern?”
Cunningham smiled in a joking manner, “Aye, he will be there when ya want ‘em, but never when you need ‘em.”
Cunningham laughed out loud as Zeil could only smile sarcastically, “Yea… funny.”
Cunningham elbowed Zeil jokingly as he replied, “Come now laddie, sometimes an enchanter needs to calm himself with a since of humor, and at other times… a task.”
“A task?”
Cunningham pulled a note from a pocket on his robes as he handed it to Zeil and spoke, “Here… this is a list of ingredients I want you to go buy for me. Remember my talk of quality lad? I want you to take that to ‘count when ya pick the ingredients out.”

Zeil looked at the list he was given as he replied, “Wait… you want me to buy ingredients for you?”
Cunningham nodded, “Ya catch on quick laddie, can’t get anythin’ passed you. As for me, I'll join ya in a sec, I got to tend to some clan business first.”
With that said, Cunningham started trotting away from Zeil towards the pub as Zeil mumbled, “This has to be some form of extortion, but whatever.”
As Zeil turned towards the rest of the village, Cunningham paused as he spoke, “Oh! And one last thing laddie… the clan doesn’t take kindly to changelings, so if I were you, don’t make your… true self known.”
Zeil was confused, “What? How did you know I was a-”
Cunningham smiled, “Ya can’t pull a quick one on me wee laddie, I’ve come across a number of your kind in my lifetime… though… let’s just say it ain’t an enjoyable tale. Just watch yourself lad, if the clan find out what ya are… it will turn deadly.”

With nothing more to say on the subject, Cunningham continued trotting towards the pub as Zeil could only feel worried. The tone of Cunningham’s warning said it all, but the emotions he was feeling while saying it, made Zeil feel as if it were closer to a threat then a warning. Since the warning was apparent, Zeil decided it was best to do as he was told and keep his identity secret. Changeling have always had a bad reputation so it wasn’t surprising that he wouldn’t be welcomed here, and this familiar sense of danger could only make him feel as if he were back in Equestria hiding right after the Canterlot wedding. As Cunningham entered the pub, he trotted into an empty bar as McNess the bartender looked his way and smiled, “Well if it isn’t me brother in-law. What can I do ya for Cunningham?”
Cunningham sat at the bar as he replied, “An ale… and… a spell.”

McNess trotted to one of the kegs behind the bar as the shire poured a mug as he replied, “Sure thing’ what are ya wantin’ to talk about?”
Cunningham replied, “I told ya already that ya don’t have to call me brother anymore… not like it’s a blood relation or anythin’.”
McNess shook his head as he brought Cunningham his drink and replied, “Nah it ain’t that easy brother, after fightin’ side by side in that battle. It’s deeper than blood. Sides… Aria would scold me if I didn’t. She was always good with the back of her hoof, poppin’ me upside the head anytime I said or did somthin’ wrong.”
Cunningham smiled, “Aye… she was a lively one she was… and you were her favorite little brother.”
McNess chuckled, “Nice try, I’m her only little brother.”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye can’t pull a fast one on you can I?”

The two smiled over old memories for a few seconds until McNess changed the mood as he replied, “Todays the day isn’t it… One year ago we declared war on those wee bugs.”
Cunningham took a drink from his mug as he replied, “Aye… and in three days Aria died… and we destroyed them all for it. leavin’… no survivors.”
McNess smiled, “I say good ridden. They’re to blame for pickin’ a fight they can’t win.”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… but still…”
Cunningham’s expression became sad as he sat in silence for a few second before McNess replied, “Still feeling regret for that day?... or are ya thinkin’ ‘bout her last prediction?”
Cunningham sighed, “Both…”
Seeing Cunningham’s expression, McNess spoke up, “Speakin’ of Prediction... what became of that lad I sent your way yesterday? Is he the one?”

Cunningham replied before taking a drink, “The good… or the bad?...”
McNess chuckled, “What are ya talkin’ about? Course I mean the good one. A wee little lad like that can’t be the bad one. He seemed too much like a decent lad to be that bad.”
Cunningham looked into his mug as he repeated the prediction word for word, “The annual week of me last breath will bring knowledge of two. One of heroism, and one of malevolence. One to protect, and one to avoid. One to save us all… and one to bring extinction.”
McNess nodded, “Aye, I know her words. I was in the room too.”
Cunningham replied, “Aye, but this lad... I doubt he’s the hero… and as for the villain… I’m not sure yet.”
McNess was curious, “What makes ya say that?...”
Cunningham replied, “Well first off, the lad is only an amateur enchanter. I can teach him to be better but for now, he can barely save ‘emself let alone everypony else. And second… his kind aren’t known for their heroism.”

McNess gave Cunningham a curious look as he asked, “His kind? I never knew zebra to be any trouble.”
Cunningham gave him a serious look as he replied, “Not Zebra lad… Changeling.”
At that moment, McNess’s friendly disposition faded into rage as he replied with an angry tone, “What did ya say…”
Cunningham repeated himself, “That lad, that ya sent my way yesterday, he ain’t no zebra… He’s a changeling.”
McNess became enraged as he replied as calmly as he could, “Are… Are ya sure Lad… No mistake?...”

Cunningham nodded, “As soon as I laid eyes on ‘em I could sense his aura. It’s a wee bit different from the other changelings but its still the same species. I’ve killed far too many of ‘em to make that mistake… we both have.”
McNess nodded, “Aye… I almost forgot about that changeling curse ya put on yourself. So… did ya kill him then?”
Cunningham shook his head, “No… he’s still alive and roamin’ abou-“
“WHAT!?!”
Cunningham tried to calm him, “No need to yell lad.”
McNess replied, “What is wrong with you? How can you let him live? After everything they’ve done to us? Everything they did to the clan! And Aria?... Have you forgotten wha-“
“ENOUGH!!!”

Although McNess was full of anger, it was nothing to Cunningham’s as the druid stood and replied, “You think you can tell me what they did!!! You weren’t there when it happened… you weren’t there tryin’ to stop the bleedin’ and sealing the wound without healing any internal damage. Watching her for three days slowly diein’ in front of me as we tried everythin’ we could to save her. She may have been your sister lad… BUT SHE WAS MY WIFE!!!”
Still angry, but sympathetic, McNess calmed himself as Cunningham sat back down and took a drink from his mug before continuing, “I’ll admit… I considered killing ‘em… but Offspring brought up a good point before I could. If I kill him now, I risk removing a half decent enchanter from this world. That and… I don’t want to kill him if he isn’t the bad one in her prediction.”

McNess gave him a curious look, “Offspring?... that bird didn’t want ya to kill him?”
Cunningham replied, “Nope, that stubborn feather duster tried to convince me to spare him… so, I decided to let ‘em have this one. Besides, I’ve spilled enough changeling blood for one lifetime.”
McNess sighed, “You still regretin’ that order? I don’t see why, you’re a hero for it. And the clan… if they found out about this changeling then they’d-”
Cunningham smiled as he stood up and interrupted, “Then don’t tell ‘em. The clan doesn’t need to know what don’t concern ‘em. As long as that changeling in under my roof, he ain’t a threat. And if I find that he is… then I'll deal with him meself. Just remember, yesterday marked the first day of the week… so keep your eyes open for the one’s from the prophesy. If ya see the good, do what ya can to keep ‘em in town, and send ‘em my way when ya can, but leave the changeling to me.”
Cunningham started trotting out of the pub as McNess spoke up, “And if I see the bad?”
Cunningham replied without turning around, “Prey that don’t happen, if so… run.”

Further in the village, Zeil was trotting towards the nearest shop to buy the ingredients on the list. As he trotted he was soon stopped as a familiar voice called too him, “Would ya look at what we have here? Wee little laddie from last night at the pub.”
As Zeil looked to the voice, he wasn’t surprised when he saw the same shire that tried to con him out of a drink the night before. Without replying Zeil just held his silence as the stallion continued, “And look… he seems to be traipsin’ about with no form of prtotectin’ ‘emself. Seems funny since I remember makin’ that same offer before.”
Turning away Zeil replied, “I think I'll be fine.”
After turning away, the large stallion chuckled, “Oh laddie… ya don’t understand do ya? Ya see… I’m the kind of thing ya might need pretectin’ from.”
Zeil stopped and looked back, “Really?... you don’t seem that intimidating…”

Like before, Zeil felt odd that his more or less disrespectful tone seems to show without him trying. But since he didn’t want to deal with this stallion he didn’t mind it as he waited for the shire to respond, “Oh laddie. Ya may have caught me off guard with that evil eye of yours last night. But now that I’m sobered up, ya can’t scare me. Ya see, last year in the war I was amongst the highest on the kill count, right behind Cunningham. Then again that lad knew a thing or two about killing ch-”
“Am I interrupting something?”
Without expecting the druid’s interruption, both Zeil and the large stallion looked at Cunningham as he trotted up and continued, “I see your busy makin’ friends and all wee laddie, but we do have potions to get started on.”
The large shire smiled, “Well, speak of the devil… I’m about to teach this little striped whelp what happened when he tussles with the McHolt Clan. S’pose ya want to join in?”

Cunningham chuckled, “Mr Loach, ya make it sound as if we were some two bit gang of thieves and muggers. But since I have interest in seeing what the lad has… Go ahead and fight ‘em, We’ll even call it a clan challenge. Though remember our traditions, if he refuses to fight, then you aren’t allowed to hurt ‘em.”
Loach looked at Zeil and replied, “So how ‘bout it laddie, are ya gonna fight me like a real stallion, or are ya gonna crawl back to ya crib like a wee foal hidin’ in his striped footie pajamas?”
Zeil gave the large stallion an unamused look as he replied, “I have no time for this.”
As Zeil turned away Cunningham nodded and use what he knew to encourage the fight, “Aye, you have your bonnie lass to get to don’t ch’a.”
Taking the bait to provoke him, Loach smiled, “Ahh… so he has a lass does he? S’pose you should introduce her to me laddie, that way she can meet a real stallion.”

Cunningham smiled as he could feel Zeil’s anger build as Zeil turned back to Loach and spoke, “Watch your words… or they’ll be your last.”
After saying that, Zeil felt a little confused since he didn’t mean to say anything, let alone a threat. Nevertheless, Zeil kept his ground without showing any hesitation with his word. Cunningham however could sense a change in Zeil’s aura while he held his silence as Loach smiled and replied, “What is it laddie? Worried your bonnie lass would look passed ya once she saw an alpha like meself? You should be worried. Seein’ me, only points out everything you can’t give her.”
Zeil glared at Loach as an incredible rage filled his body making Cunningham smiled as he mumbled quietly to himself, “There it is again, an aura that ain’t his own… A darkness about ‘em… is it brought about by anger?”
Not hearing him clearly Loach looked at Cunningham as he asked, “What was that?”
Cunningham replied, “So it looks like this scuffle will carry on after all. Then so be it… I'll let ya know now, per clan tradition, groin and throat shots are acceptable in this fight.”
Loach smiled, “So then it will be a friendly competition is it… then let’s set our rule.”

A small herd of the village’s residents gathered to watch as Zeil felt confused, “Rule?”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye laddie, tradition claims that both fighters have to make and agree to one rule each before beginnin’. If one refuses to follow the rule then the fight doesn’t happen. But if one happens to agree to the rule and break it during the fight, then he forfeits his honor, and in some cases… his life.”
Enjoying the attention from the gathering herd, Loach smiled, “Aye… and my rule… none of that hocus pocus nonsense. Don’t think I didn’t listen when I heard ya tellin’ McNess that you were an enchanter last night. If we fight, we fight without magic.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Alright then my rule… is… um…”
As Zeil tried to think of a rule, Cunningham threw in a suggestion, “How about this… the fight will end once one of ya surrenders or is unable to continue. That way, if one of ya chickens out or has all his bones broken, the other won’t continue tryin’ to kill ya. That sound alright to you?”
After hearing the suggestion, Zeil nodded, “Agreed, I'd rather not kill anypony today anyways.”

Cunningham smiled at Zeil’s confidence as Loach replied, “Seems a slight foolish, but fine, if ya want to make this easy, I’ll try not to kill the wee laddie…” He looked at Zeil and smiled, “I'll just maim ya instead.”
Cunningham nodded, “Then it’s settled, let’s go to the hill’s peak. It’s the flattest and fairest field for you two to fight.” He turned to the gathering villagers, “And you’re all welcome to come watch the show!”
The two challengers nodded as they and the surrounding villagers who witnessed the argument followed, as the druid led everypony to the summit. As they trotted, Cunningham fell back till he was next to Zeil as he spoke quietly, “This should go without sayin’ laddie… but about our earlier conversation. It still stands… it would be a good idea taken ‘em on without revealing your uh… true self. ya get my drift?...”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “This is my true self… and I intend on fighting him fairly.”
Cunningham could only admire Zeil’s confidence as he replied, “Suits yourself lad. I on the other hoof would try to think of ways to cheat. Then again that’s just me.”
Zeil smiled at Cunningham’s comment as the small herd of shire and their changeling visitor continued to the summit of the hill.

As soon as the two reached the hill the two stepped onto the flattest part of the summit as the larger shire smiled, “Last chance laddie… I'd call it quits while ya still have all four hooves.”
Once again something spoke in place of Zeil as he replied, “Let’s just start this so I can end you...”
Hearing the harsh tone, the surrounding spectator’s started getting riled up with excitement as Cunningham sensed the darkness in Zeil once again. Cunningham smiled as he spoke, “Easy laddie… it will be over in due time. You two ready?... now… choose your weapon.”
Zeil was confused, “Wait… what?”
At that moment Zeil’s opponent looked to the crowd as he called, “Give me a maul!”
With that call, the surrounding villagers tossed in a large war hammer into the arena as the heavy weapon hit the ground with a big thud that made Zeil feel slightly nervous, “Um… Am I missing som-”

Cunningham interrupted, “Well laddie? Clan tradition states that when two decide to face each other in a one on one fight, both sides make a rule and choose a weapon. So… make your choice.”
Trying to think of a weapon to ask for, Zeil hesitated, but before he could make his choice, the indecisive changeling looked back at his foe as he noticed that the large stallion had already picked up his weapon and was charging at Zeil like a freight train. Quickly reacting to his attacker’s actions, Zeil jumped out of the way as the massive stallion swung his large war hammer in a vertical motion as the hammer head hit the ground with enough force for Zeil to feel the earth below him shake from the shock. Relieved he wasn’t hit by the massive hammer, Zeil called, “Where were ya’ll even keeping those?”
Cunningham called back, “It’s a small hillside town lad. We’re all packin’ iron.”
Reacting to his missed target, Loach swung his hammer horizontally from where it hit the ground before as Zeil once again jumped out of its path as he spoke, “I don’t know… give me a staff!”
A large glaive was passed to Cunningham as he called, “Closest thing we have to that is this! Catch!”
With that Cunningham tossed the long weapon to Zeil so he could catch it but before he could Loach stepped between Zeil and his weapon as he swung his hammer straight down on top of the airborne weapon as the massive hammer smashed through the glaive’s shaft removing the blade from the weapon and imbedding both pieces in the ground. The surrounding herd cheered at the spectacle as the cocky shire smiled at his accomplishment, “Too slow lad, now you deal with me.”
Worried, Zeil jumped back away from his foe as, he watched Loach ready his weapon again for another charge.

As the tall stallion approached his foe a second time, he raised his hammer to strike as Zeil saw it clearly. The hammer was massive, but with its weight, it only slowed down the large shire as Zeil found the openings he needed. With the massive weapon in the air and ready to come crashing down on its victim, Zeil charged forward as he approached his opponent at a range that was too close to strike as Zeil punched the stallion in his gut as hard as he could. Sadly, in his current form, Zeil’s punch managed to do almost nothing to the large stallion as the shire slammed his hammer on the ground, released his weapon and swung at Zeil hitting the small zebra shaped creature and tossing him five feet from where he was standing. Stunned by the hit he took, Zeil rolled himself over and spit out the blood in his mouth as the larger shire rubbed his gut and coughed at the impact, “That was a decent hit laddie… but it’s nothing compared to what I can do.”
Wiping the blood from his mouth and flinging it from his hoof onto the ground, Zeil looked at his foe as the changeling mumbled, “He is tough… but I’ve taken down tougher.”

With that Zeil stood up as he saw the large shire charging again. With his target closing in Zeil immediately thought up a strategy as he mumbled in his mind, “When he is close enough, I'll go for his hind hooves since both his front hooves will be on his weapon. Then when he hits the ground, I'll brake the shaft on his hammer then use it to knock him unconscious that will be what ends this.”
With his plan set, Zeil waited while the large shire was closing in. But before the threat was close enough to launch his plan, Zeil started hearing a slight ring, which soon turned into another intense headache as he cringed in pain, “N-no… not now…”
Like the last, this headache was soon accompanied by a vision, as he saw the same tomb as before only this time, Zeil saw a tall dark alicorn with bat-like wings standing in the center of the pillars next to the chest, as he smiled in the most sinister fashion that Zeil had ever seen. Luckily the vision ended there, as Zeil found himself standing back on the battleground with his hoof on his head as he mumbled, “What… who was…”

At that moment, the distracted changeling looked up to see that the charging shire was now right in front of him as Zeil found himself too close to follow through with his plan or even dodge the incoming war hammer. Knowing that there was no escape, Zeil impulsively shielded his face, though even he knew it would do no good. However, before the large hammer could make contact with its target, time seemed to slow down, as the maul’s wooden handle shattered into splinters leaving the head of the hammer to fly over its target as its edge glanced across the top of Zeil’s head, knocking the disguised enchanter to the ground with a fraction of its force as it broke the skin and stun him. The surrounding herd stopped cheering and stared in shock as Zeil laid on the ground trying to ignore his pain and dizziness while he looked up to see that the hammer’s handle wasn’t shattered spontaneously. It was actually hit very precisely by the broken shaft of Zeil’s glaive as Cunningham stood between the downed changeling and his attacking foe.

Confused, Zeil tried to stay conscious from the hit he took as Loach lowered the hammer’s handle and spoke, “Why did ya stop me Cunningham? You know it’s against tradition to step in on a challenge.”
Cunningham nodded as he lowered the weapon and replied, “Aye… I know, but I stepped in for two reasons. First… a clan spar’s rules only apply to the clan members which… the lad ain’t. And second… didn’t ya see how he was acting… it was obvious the shocks from the first few attacks concussed the wee laddie and made it so he couldn’t continue, so I stepped in before you could turn him to paste.”
Loach was angry, “The lad accepted the fight, the rules, and what’s to come of it. Druid or not, you don’t have the right to stop this fight now that it’s started!”

Cunningham smiled, “Oh… then by all means continue, but remember one thing Mr. Loach. You broke the rules too.”
Loach gave him a suspicious look, “What are you getting’ at?”
The herd stared in curiosity as Cunningham continued, “The fight don’t start till both sides are ready. You didn’t give the wee lad a chance to retrieve his weapon. Meanin’ he wasn’t ready. And as a clan member, you should know and follow the traditions of our clan, whether your opponent is or isn’t a member of said clan.”
Seeing that he was in the wrong, Loach spoke, “Wha… but… you can’t…”
Cunningham’s smile turned sinister, “As the McHolt Clan’s Druid, it is my responsibility to uphold the clans’ rules as tradition dictates. So in this case lad, I can and I will… remember that, unless you’d be willin’ to accept that the rules don’t apply to the outsider and that this fight is decided with a draw. Actually, I'll sweeten the deal for ya, you win by knockout how that. Then you can keep your honor, we can ignore this little violation of tradition and you’ll even have braggin’ rights over beatin’ the wee little laddie who is a quarter of your size by-the-way, in a fair fight where you were armed and he wasn’t. how’s that sound?”

Although he knew he was being mocked, Loach still new that this was one argument he couldn’t win. So he could only toss his broken weapon aside as Loach as he turned around and replied, “Fine… you win this one Cunningham… but that zebra better watch his step around me. Or next time I won’t be so forgivin’.
Cunningham smiled, “As long as you don’t start anything, he won’t be a problem. Scouts honer.”
Annoyed Loach trotted through the observing herd as he mumbled in irritation, “Yea, like you’re a scout… I’m goin’ to the pub.”
With that Cunningham looked to the surrounding Villagers as he announced, “You heard me lads, this fight is decided, Mr. Loach is the winner and that’s all there is to it. Now go about your ways.”

As the surrounding herd of spectators started to disperse, Cunningham tossed the halberd in his hoof aside as he looked down at Zeil and spoke with a serious tone, “What did ya see wee laddie?”
Zeil started opening his mouth to reply, however as he did, a sudden head rush overtook him as the defeated changeling fell flat on the ground and lost consciousness. Seeing this Cunningham sighed, “Fine… I'll just have to check your mind meself.”
With that said, Cunningham turned away from his unconscious student, but as he did, he noticed splotches of Zeil’s blood on the ground in front of him as he took the opportunity to take out a vial and collect some of the blood as he mumbled, “Never know when you need some changeling blood… maybe I can use it to cure this curse of mine.”

Hours later, Cunningham entered his home with a saddlebag full of assorted ingredients as he pointed to the back room and spoke, “Put ‘em back there. That’s where he is stayin’ for now.”
Hearing the instruction, McNess entered the home carrying Zeil as he trotted to the back room and laid the still unconscious changeling down in the bed as Cunningham entered the back room and spoke, “Thanks again brother, I couldn’t carry both my ingredients and him at the same time. I ain’t as strong as I use to be.”
McNess gave him an annoyed look as he replied, “Fine, But next time, you carry the bug yourself. Now if you will excuse me, I gotta head home and get a shower. I have to wash his filth off me before I can open the pub for the evenin’
ignoring the rather harsh comment, Cunningham smiled, “Alright… I'll see ya later then.”

As Cunningham followed McNess into the main room, McNess opened the front door as he paused, “I'd never thought I would see it though…”
Cunningham was confused, “See what?”
McNess replied without turning around, “Seeing you go soft… A year ago ya called the order to hunt down and kill all of ‘em. Every single one.”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… and we did.”
McNess turned to the druid, “Then why are ya sparin’ this one? Need I remind you, they started this fight! They came to us and threatened us. Said if we didn’t surrender our love to them we’d be sorry.”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye, and we laughed at them and turned them away. Then one snuck into our town disguised as one of us and stabbed our chief in the back… stabbed Aria… in the back.”
Cunningham sighed to keep himself calm, “That’s why we killed them… that’s why I gave that order and that’s why the Highland Hive is now a mass grave.”

McNess nodded, “Aye… and still you spare this one.”
Cunningham nodded, “Because he ain’t from the Highland Hive. I don’t think he even knows that that hive ever existed. That order and my curse are the results of anger and frustration. They don’t deserve to be laying there rotting in that cavern, no more then the prisoners deserved to be executed after the battle ended. I won’t repeat my greatest sin.”
McNess continued, “You gave yourself that curse to help you hunt them down no matter what they look like.”
Cunningham sighed, “And look how it’s benefited me, since I used that assassin’s blood to cast this spell, I’ve felt the emotions and aura of every living thing in this world. Do you know how it feels to trot outside and feel the emotions of every animal on a field of livestock? Or feel the pain of everypony at a funeral. Or even the empty joy of every drunk that sits at the bar? It ain’t a good feeling lad. Maybe if I grew up getting used to it I could handle it better, but I still have a hard time sleepin when I can sense the aura of every bug, bat, and rat scurrying in and outside my home. This curse is my punishment, and the same goes for that.”

Cunningham pointed to the poison joke that was incased in glass as McNess sighed, “Say what ya want… but that supposes joke spell is nothing but a myth. But aside from that, you’re a war hero. After aria died, ya led the charge into the changeling hive and claimed revenge for Aria’s death. Thanks to you, our clan still has it’s honor.”
Cunningham shook his head, “I’m a murderer lad… I committed genocide out of my own anger and for that I can never go back to what I was before. There is no honor in that. at least I can save this one, but that is nothin’ to the debt that I owe them.”
McNess gave him a look of confusion, “Debt?... listen to yourself. Your showin’ sympathy for a pest. Actin’ the way you are is like feelin’ sorry for the rats that we kill in our storehouse.”

Cunningham sighed, “Maybe… but until I know he is a threat, I ain’t gonna hurt ‘em. This lad is my chance for repentance. And I ain’t gonna let it pass me by.”
McNess shook his head as he turned back to the door, “Fine… do what ya want lad. Just don’t let this one trick you. I’ve lost enough family to those things already.”
With that said, McNess left Cunningham’s home as the distraught druid sat down and tried to think. As he pondered his actions, Offspring landed next to him as the raven squawked leading Cunningham to speak, “I know I’m walking a razors edge, but I have to know if he is the good, the bad, or just a bystander. After Aria was stabbed, I came to her bedside but her wound couldn’t be treated. All my potions only heal flesh, we didn’t have anything to stop the bleeding inside her. For three days we tried everything we could think of. But even forbidden spells couldn’t stop death. All we could do, was numb her pain enough for her to give her last prediction, and...” He rubbed his head in irritation, “After she passed… I lost it. I found the killer, tortured him mercilessly then when he finally died, I used his blood to curse myself then gave an order to attack the changeling hive, hunt down any who tried to flee, then executed all of ’em, even the prisoners. My pain killed them all, and when the dust cleared, I crawled out of the blood and dirt with nothing but regret.”

A tear rolled down his cheek as Cunningham wiped it away before speaking, “I ain’t gonna let that happen again. I’m gonna see what that changeling saw. Right now.”
With that, Cunningham placed his saddlebag on the table as he started pulling the potions and ingredients out and setting them beside the bag, as he did this, he pulled out the small veil with Zeil’s blood as this peaked Offspring’s interest. Not noticing the raven’s attention, Cunningham continued looking through his bag till he found a rose colored potion as he took the potion with him back into Zeil’s room. After entering the room, Cunningham preceded to pour a small amount of the potion on his hoof as he spoke, “Sight of the mind… show me his final vision.”

As soon as he said that, the potion started to glow as he rubbed it onto Zeil’s forehead leaving the potion to instantly evaporate into a white vapor. As soon as he lifted his hoof Cunningham raised it up like it was when he spoke seconds ago as the vapor accumulated in his hoof and opened a small portal that started to reveal an image in its center. Cunningham stared into the portal, it soon revealed the large alicorn that Zeil had seen earlier. As Cunningham looked at the evil creature he had no idea what to make of it. The creature resembled the royal alicorn in height, but his dark coat and bat like wings made him seem similar to a bat pony then an alicorn. Small hills of black sand surrounded his hooves as if he were an ancient statue standing in a forgotten desert, however with the sand continuously moving, it was more apparent that this alicorn was made up that sand, or had complete control of it. A dark creature composed from literal darkness. Cunningham watched the sand in confusion, while the creature soon melted into sand as the observing druid started to feel an immense aura of evil radiate from the image as the sand sprang to life and lunged at the portal as if it were trying to attack him through it.

Surprised, Cunningham jumped back against the wall as his reflexive action caused the portal to vanish, leaving behind only the memory of the dark creature and his evil aura that could be felt through the void. As Cunningham leaned against the wall, the fear in his mind continued as he spoke out of worry, “That…that thing… what was it… and why is this changeling seei- wait…”
Still trembling in fear Cunningham cautiously approached Zeil as he spoke, “When this wee laddie got angry… I sensed a hint of somthin’ inside him… somthin’ dark… so… this is the darkness she predicted.”
Determined on what he had to do next, Cunningham trotted out of the room as he approached a hall closet as he opened the door and pulled out a large two sided sword as he looked into the blade and mumbled, “Before this darkness can awaken… I got to kill ‘em.”

Seeing his master look into the sword, Offspring flew towards Cunningham as he flew in front of Cunningham and hovered with the vial of Zeil’s blood in his talons. Not seeing the vial, Cunningham spoke, “Ya can’t talk me out of it this time bird. He dies now.”
Without giving Offspring the chance to react, Cunningham turned back towards the room as he started towards it. Offspring tried to fly alongside Cunningham with the vail still in his talon as he squawked as if he was trying to convince him to stop. Ignoring his avian assistant Cunningham replied, “This changeling is harboring a dark evil in him. I aim to stop it before it awakens.”
Still trying, Offspring flew in front of him just as he reached the door as the raven continued trying to stop him as Cunningham spoke out of anger, “Don’t get in my way bird! I should have seen that this changeling is no different from the rest. He knew about this evil in ‘em, yet he ain’t said a word to me. If he wants to keep this secret of his, then I'll let him…” He pushed passed the raven as he opened the door, “I'll let him take it to his grave!”

With no concern for Offspring’s attempts to calm him, Cunningham slammed the door behind him leaving the raven in the main room as Cunningham approached the unconscious changeling who was laying in the bed. Looking down at his lifeless target, Cunningham mumbled, “One year ago… your kind took my life from me… and I destroyed them for it. I can never repent for this misdeed, and I thought I could try with you… but I can’t. You and that darkness in ya, can only die to better anythin’. It’s a shame it had to end this way laddie… I kinda liked havin’ you around. But I can’t let this darkness awaken to harm us all.”
With that Cunningham raised his sword up high and aimed for Zeil’s neck as he took one last bracing sigh before beginning his execution. However just as he moved his blade an inch, a bright light shined directly into his eyes as he paused his swing and lowered one hoof to shield his eyes from the light.

Confused, Cunningham looked towards the bright golden light that was shining on him from above as he realized it was actually a reflection off the sword’s blade and the real source was actually coming from behind him. Cunningham turned around to see that light was shining from under the room’s door as he mumbled, “What in blue blazes?”
Curious, the druid lowered his sword as he trotted to the door and followed the light as it shined from the main room in the home. As soon as he entered, Cunningham froze in shock as he found that the bright golden light that stopped his execution was coming from the glass incased poison joke that sat on his shelf which was now revealed as a golden joke. Shocked, Cunningham mumbled, “The Joke… its gold again?... but… it hasn’t been gold sense Aria… how?”

Slowly, Cunningham approached the golden joke as he realized that there was a small vail sitting on top of the glass casing. The same vail that held a few drops of Zeil’s blood. After seeing this, Cunningham looked over at Offspring who was sitting on his perch in the corner of the room watching as Cunningham looked back to the vail, picked it up and slowly backed away from the golden plant. As he stepped further and further from the golden joke, the bright light emitting from it slowly dulled itself down with each step until after about five paces, the gold joke had turned back to blue. As he saw this, Cunningham looked to Offspring as he spoke, “Clever bird… but… this means that the lad… used this spell… a spell that calls for a part of his own kind. Did he use his own… or another?... did he commit self-mutilation… or murder.”
Cunningham thought to himself then nodded as he leaned the sword against the cabinet, approached a drawer, “I’m tired of playin’ this guessin’ game.” He opened the drawer and pulled out a vail filled with a greenish powder as he continued, “When he wakes, I will get answers… and I'll do it my way.”

Author's Note

Image of The Dark Alicorn

Bk4/Ch3 The Approaching Calamity

Book 4/Chapter 3
The Approaching Calamity
Year 01, Month 07, Day 06

Cunningham was standing over a small cauldron as Zeil entered the room while rubbing his head in confusion. As Cunningham saw the now conscious changeling he smiled, “Well would ya look who's still alive. Welcome back laddie."
Zeil sat down at a table as he spoke with an exhausted tone, “What… happened?”
Cunningham continued to smile as he spoke with a sarcastically enthusiastic tone, “Ya lost lad! Spectaculously I might add. Ain’t seen a loss like that in years, so it was quite entertainin’.”
Still confused, Zeil rubbed his head as he tried to remember, “I did… strange… I thought… wait…” he remembered, “You saved me…”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye…I did. Why? Would ya rather be a splotch of paste on the ground?”

Zeil shook his head, “No… I just… wasn’t expecting it.”
Cunningham pulled out two bowls as he started filling the bowls as he replied, “Now what sort of teacher simply stands aside as his only student gets flattened by a bully? Ya got to give me more credit than that laddie.”
Cunningham trotted to the table and sat one of the bowls in front of his student as Zeil replied, “Sorry… I just… never mind… maybe I’m thinking too far into it.”
Cunningham gave Zeil a concerned look as he sat down with his bowl on the other side of the table, “You don’t rightly trust me, do ya laddie?”
Zeil looked into the food that was placed in front of him as he replied, “Sorry… it sort of comes with the territory. Trust isn’t something that I can give very easily. And… let’s just say the last trust I gave landed me with a few good friends lost.”

Cunningham could feel Zeil’s painful aura as he replied, “I s’pose I can understand that… seeing that you’re a changeling and all. Either way, eat up. Ya need your strength after having it literally hammered outta ya.”
Zeil looked down at the bowl as he asked, “What is it… it smells… pretty good actually.”
Cunningham smiled, “An old recipe, from me wife… spiced apple dumplin’s. Sweet and savery just like she wa-” He cleared his throat, “Well… ya know. I ain’t got much love for ya to eat, so I hope this will do nicely.”
Zeil dipped a spoon into the apple cobbler looking food as he smiled, “Well it certainly looks good, thanks.”
With that Zeil took a bit of the food as Cunningham spoke, “So… on that subject… I’m sure your wonderin’ about my warning right? How I told ya to keep your changeling self secret?”
Zeil nodded as he paused between bites, “Yea?...”
Cunningham continued, “Well I’m sure you’ve guessed that… this clan and your kind haven’t had the healthiest of relationships. You could say that they left a sort of bad taste in our mouths.”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “Yea… I could have guessed that.”
With those words, Zeil felt a since of pity for whatever reason the clan had to hate changelings. When Cunningham sensed this however, he felt a little confused as he replied, “Let me ask ya… what is your opinion of your kind?”
Zeil replied, “Well… how do you mean?”
Cunningham continued, “Ya ain’t said anythin’ ‘bout where ya came from… so I’m curious. Which hive would you say is yours?”
Zeil replied with a little disappointment in his aura, “I… don’t have one.”
Cunningham replied, “Ya don’t? Surely you got a queen don’t ya?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I disowned my hive. I guess… you could say I’m a changeling without a queen.”

Cunningham was confused, nothing in Zeil’s emotions hinted that he was lying, and he had never heard of a changeling with no hive, so he replied, “So I’m assuming your opinion of them is less than fair?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… it’s fair enough… They cloak themselves in a disguise, then trick anypony they come across, all to steal that which is most precious to them, not even caring about who they hurt in the process. I can’t blame us all, but the queens I can, since it’s they who give the instructions. We workers and drone are bread to obey, drones may have a chance to disobey orders, but common workers cant.”
Cunningham nodded as he added, “Then we share the same opinion. In my harshest words, they are nothing but a two bit gang of thieves, and parasites. I’ve known piles of waste with more reliability. They threaten anypony they come across that they perceive as weak. And if they don’t get what they want, they do the unthinkable to intimidate whoever crosses ‘em.”

Zeil smiled slightly, “You seem to know us better than I thought.”
Cunningham nodded, “Like I said lad… a bad taste. That’s what they left on this village.” Without taking a bit of the food he prepared, Cunningham leaned back in his chair as he continued, “Well, I’m glade you agree with me then… though… it makes me kinda regret what I just did.”
Zeil was confused as he started to take another bite of the food, “What you just did?... what do you me-”
At that moment, a thump was heard as Zeil looked at his right front hoof that was now lying flat on the table with food still in the spoon. Confused, Zeil tried to lift his hoof but as much as he tried, his hoof wouldn’t react to his command. Since it wouldn’t move, Zeil decided to physically move it with his other front hoof, however as he did, he quickly realized that it too was also laying limp on the table.

At this moment, Zeil realized that what Cunningham said was connected as he looked at Cunningham and started to speak, “Wait… what did yo-”
Before he could finish his sentence, Zeil’s head stated to feel heavy and his torso gave way as Zeil fell onto the table knocking the bowl of food onto the floor as he struggled to move, “What’s?... happening?...why can’t I move?”
Cunningham stood up as he replied, “Sorry ‘bout this laddie… but I’ve run out of patience.”
Cunningham started trotting around the table as he reached into the pocket on his patched cloak and pulled a small vial out. Not able to see his action, Zeil replied, “What do mean? What’s going on? What are you doing?”

Cunningham didn’t reply, instead he placed the vial down in front of Zeil’s face so that he could see the greenish powder as Zeil looked at the vial and spoke, “That?... I’ve seen that powder before… it’s a freezing spell isn’t it?”
Cunningham nodded as he picked the veil of potion back up and replied, “You know it?... good. Then I shouldn’t have to explain much. As you know this powder freezes others in place renderin’ anything plant or animal completely harmless. Only I’ve perfected it, it isn’t harmless anymore… it’s a poison. Now… it won’t freeze your muscles in place. It will actually paralyze ‘em. But it won’t stop there. First it paralyzes your limbs, then shortly after… your torso and neck. In less than a minute, it’s gonna render your transformation magic useless, so your ability to stay a zebra, will fail, and you will turn to your true self. sad to say… it won’t stop there… in about five minute, the potion will stop your heart and lungs… and I would say in about ten minute it would shut down your brain too… but by then you will have already suffocated… or… you would. See it has a strange reaction when mixed with apples. It pauses right after disablin’ your transformation… so you will change back to your true self… but you won’t die… not yet anyways.”

As Zeil laid helplessly on the table he started to get angry as Cunningham could sense the darkness build up as he added, “Now don’t take this too personally laddie, ya know your kind aren’t the most trustworthy, so just treat this as my way of insurin’ my safety in case you’re bad and trying to con your way into the village to conduct a few misdeeds. If ya answer me questions properly, then this will end in a few minutes with no harm to ya. But if you lie to me or ya turn out to be what I think ya are… I'll feed ya the rest of this veil, and be done with ya… so… wa-da-ya-say?”
Though he wasn’t sure of the offer, Zeil know he had no choice at this point so he just sighed as he replied. “Fine… ask your question.”
Cunningham smiled, “I appreciate your cooperation laddie, but I won’t talk to a mask. In less than a minute your ability to change will also be paralyzed, and you will turn back to your true form. Then when that happens, I'll talk. Face to face.”
Zeil sighed, “Fine.”

As he said that, Zeil’s body reacted the exact way that Cunningham had predicted. Without his control, Zeil changed back from his zebra appearance into his reformed changeling form. However, when Cunningham saw this, he could only take a few steps back in shock, “What? What is this?”
Acting casual, Zeil replied, “My true form… so ask away.”
Cunningham shook his head, “But… that’s not a changeling? What?... what are you?”
Though he couldn’t move, Zeil could still roll his eyes in irritation as he replied, “I am a changeling… but not like the others. Rather than feeding on love I choose to share it. Now, I don’t eat emotions anymore. I can still feel them and sense it, such as the confusion I sense in you right now, but I don’t feast on it anymore.”
Cunningham asked, “What, do ya eat then?”

If he could move his shoulders, he would have shrugged them as Zeil replied, “Normal stuff, oats, grain, fruits, I think we can eat some meats too, but I haven’t tested that out yet… I’m a little nervous to try.”
At first Cunningham assumed Zeil had transformed into this creature at will, however since this was the moment the potion’s effect would have kicked in, he decided to take it as it seemed as he replied, “Fine, That’s beside the point anyways. Lad… I don’t know your game, and I can’t be sure I can trust ya. So I'll ask… do you know about the darkness in ya? That dark aura I’ve sensed on occasion.”
Zeil was surprised that Cunningham knew about his other self, nevertheless, he hid his surprise as he replied, “Yes… I do.”
Cunningham nodded, “Alright… then do ya know what it happens to be? Where it came from or why it’s there?”
Zeil sighed, “I wish I knew… but… my guide called it… Mara.”

Cunningham thought to himself as he replied, “Mara egh?... as is, the evil goddess from the Far East?”
Zeil was confused as to his point as he replied, “I was in the far east at the time… but it wasn’t a she, so, it wasn’t any sort of goddess. He just said in that part of the world that’s what he would be called.”
Cunningham nodded, “Then it’s Old Nick… or that’s what we’d call ‘em here.”
Cunningham trotted around the table out of Zeil’s sight as Zeil asked, “Then you know what it is?”
Cunningham replied as he trotted to his saddlebag, “In a since… the word means Devil, or Demon. I’m not sure what he meant by that, since there is only one true devil… though he was trapped in Tartarus many eons ago.”
Though Zeil from his current position couldn’t see Cunningham, it didn’t faze him as he replied, “Okay, so if there is a devil and this isn’t him, then what could it be?”
After Cunningham found what he was looking for in his saddlebag, he pulled out a vial with a clear liquid in it, then trotted to a bookshelf as he pulled out a specific book then trotted back to the table as he sat the book down beside Zeil, opened it up, and replied, “Well it could be a nick name for a sort of monster or creature of evil, but then again it would be a strange nickname for anypony to have, dark or no. Anyways… did you ever see this darkness face to face?”

If he could move his neck, he would have nodded as he replied, “See him? I fought him.”
After finding the page he was looking for, Cunningham smiled, “Fought him? How did ya fair?”
Zeil replied, “Well… I won… sort of…”
Cunningham chuckled, “Funny, the time we spent together would say otherwise, but judging by your emotions, I can tell you ain’t lying.”
Zeil was confused, “My… emot-”
Cunningham pointed at the page he was looking at as he interrupted, “This devil ya fought… did he look like this?”
With no way of lifting himself up to look at the book that was sitting flat on the table, Zeil sighed, “Yea… just like that… flat and lifeless like the cross section of an open book.”

Realizing the fault, Cunningham chuckled as he lifted the book and replied, “Looks like your building a sense of humor after all.” he pointed at the page, “I was talking about this, is this what he looked like?”
Zeil looked at the picture of the creature in the book, what he saw was an image of a tall beast like creature that had bat like wings, long claws on both his hands and feet, and coiled horns on his head resembling a Minotaur but much more intimidating in appearance. As Zeil looked at the large beast, he replied, “No… he looked nothing like that… basically, he looked exactly like a darker version of my… old self.”
Cunningham thought to himself, “A changeling? I always said that a changeling is like a… nah too easy.”
Zeil knew he was going to somehow link changelings with devils but to humor him he just replied, “What was that?”
Cunningham shrugged his shoulders, “Oh nothin’.” He closed the book, “Well if this ain’t him, then it ain’t any devil that I know of. So… what do ya s’pose it is?”

Zeil Replied with an unsure tone, “No clue… I was just warned to watch him closely.”
Cunningham nodded, “Fine… then answer me next question… why are you here? Why did you stop in this village of all places?”
Zeil replied with an annoyed sigh, “I told you already… I’m on the way to Equestria and I needed money.”
“Then why did you want to learn magic from me?”
“That was your idea! The only reason I agreed to it is because you were right. With all the time it is taking me to get to Equestria it’d be beater I learn a little extra otherwise why call myself an enchanter at- at…”
At that moment, Zeil could feel another headache coming, only this time without any ability to move, he could only cringe in pain as he laid on the table.

At first Cunningham assumed it was just an attempt to move, but since he was carefully sensing Zeil’s emotions for any hint of a lie, he could easily tell that the clarity in Zeil’s emotions had completely faded and was being distorted by the incoming headache. Seizing the opportunity Cunningham quickly trotted to his shelf as he spoke, “Oh no ya don’t…” He pulled out a small flask with a neon white potion inside as he opened the flask, drank the potion in one gulp and tossed it aside as he trotted towards Zeil and replied, “I’m gonna see this one meself.
As Cunningham approached Zeil, his body started to react to the potion as he started glowing before placing his hoof against Zeil’s back as a bright light was emitted that shined so bright, that the large shire had to shield his eyes.

A few seconds later, Cunningham lowered his hoof to see that both he and Zeil were standing in a faraway city. Surprised by his surroundings Cunningham looked around, He had never seen this city before, though he could tell by the large number of buildings and a large castle, that this was the capital city of some far away kingdom. The buildings weren’t that tall, but they were in great numbers, but something seemed odd. Most of the buildings were damaged as if something had shot through them leaving the structures still standing, but with large holes in them, and despite the cities obvious size, there were no citizens in sight. Confused Cunningham looked to Zeil to ask him about it, but when he saw Zeil’s combination of shock and worry, he could tell that the changeling knew where they were as Cunningham asked, “Lad? Where are we?”
Zeil replied, “C-Canterlot… We’re in Canterlot… but… what happened here?”
Confused Zeil looked at the damaged building and the empty streets as he continued, “Something’s wrong… this… this is Canterlot… but… Where is everypo-“
“Come my friends, we’ve no time to waste. I feel the danger’s not done, so we must make haste.”

After hearing both the familiar voice and rhyme, Zeil slowly turned towards the street to see Zecora, A dark blue Unicorn with a Black mane, and a pail mare with a pink and rose colored mane. As the trio rushed down the empty street, the stallion spoke, “Zecora, wait!” they stopped running, “Listen…”
They looked around as the mare spoke, “Niether… I don’t hear anything.”
The Unicorn nodded, “Exactly… it’s quiet, and the pillar if sand is gone. You think the fighting is over?”
Zecora shook her head, “I wouldn’t drop your guard, though the battle seems done. With the strength of this foe… I doubt we won.”
The mare replied, “You think the commander lost?”
Niether shook his head, “Commander Bolt is strong… but remember this creature is responsible for the Fall of Eden and the alicorns. Something like that can’t be beaten so easily.”

Zecora nodded, “I’d hate to admit it…but I think your right. As strong as the commander is… even he can’t win this fight.”
The mare spoke up, “But Twilight and her friends are helping too, then… the princesses and her army an-“
“Rose…”
The mare paused as Niether spoke, “I agree that we can’t give up hope. But… Even he said it himself, we weren’t ready for this.”
Zecora looked up the street as she replied, “Still though it’s quiet, my order still stand. To deliver you out of Canterlot, was Twilight’s command.”
Niether nodded, “I agree, let’s go.” He looked at the other mare, “You ready Roseluck.”
She nodded, “Sure, le-”

All of a sudden, the ground beneath them shifted drastically as everypony to include the observing Cunningham and Zeil fell to the ground as they looked around in confusion. As they looked around, Zeil looked up the mountain as he could see the mountain getting taller as Cunningham noticed the same as he asked. “Is, the mountain growing?”
Zeil looked towards the peak as he saw it drifting further from them as he replied, “No, The city is falling!”
Cunningham replied, “What but how is that po…” He and Zeil felt something as they both looked to the mountain’s peak, “That aura…”
Though they couldn’t see him, both Zeil and Cunningham could feel the aura of the dark alicorn from the earlier visions as Zeil’s expression became angry, “It’s him… he caused this… but… who… or what is he?”

Cunningham gave Zeil a confused look, “So…you don’t know then…”
Zeil looked back, “What? Why would I know wh…”
before he could finish his sentence, the angle of the city took effect as a loose cart started rolling down the road strait towards the fleeing trio. As the cart rolled towards them, Zeil reacted out of impulse as he called, “ZECORA WATCH OUT!!!”
As the trio fled, something strange happened, Zecora actually sensed his warning as she paused and looked towards him, which was also the direction the cart was coming from. As she saw the incoming obstacle, she called, “There I say! MAKE WAY!!!”

As the trio saw the incoming obstacle, all three tried to jump out of the way, however as they did, Roseluck was clipped on her hind hoof causing her to fall to the ground in pain. After she hit the ground, Neither called, “ROSE!”
As the blue unicorn saw to her wound, Zecora looked back in the direction she heard the warning from as she mumbled, “Zine?...”
Although she couldn’t see him, Zeil was surprised as he mumbled, “What?...she he-“
“Love in its truest form… seems your hearts are connected laddie. I guess… you were tellin’ the truth the whole time.”

As Zeil looked back at Cunningham, he nodded, “I know… I di- LOOK OUT!!!”
As Cunningham looked in the direction that Zeil called, they saw a large tower toppling over as the rubble made from the falling debris tumbled towards them like a land slide. When they saw the debris, both Zeil and Cunningham shielded their faces however as they did, the rubble never touched them as a familiar voice spoke, “I never imagined that Zeil would invite a guest to our conversations… yet, I’m sure we both can agree that you were not invited… now were you?”
As the two stopped covering their faces, they found themselves standing in an empty abyss as Chief Rafi stood before them leaving Cunningham to reply, “Let’s just say… I needed convincing… so what about you? You got no aura, so… what are you?”

Rafi smiled as he lowered his head in a greeting manner, “My name is Chief Jumb Rafi. I am Zeil’s spiritual guide… and… as his guide… I have come with a grave warning.”
Zeil replied, “Warning?... first tell me what that was? How did Zecora hear me? What was that? It wasn’t a vision of the past, or of the future… so what was it?”
Rafi’s expression became uneasy as he replied, “That… was a vision of what was happening at this exact moment.”
Zeil was surprised, “Wait… you mean?...”
Rafi nodded, “Yes… Canterlot…has been destroyed.”
Recognizing the cities name, Cunningham spoke, “What of the royal sisters… the daughters to the king and queen of Eden?”
Zeil was surprised that Cunningham knew about the royal sisters as, Rafi replied, “At this time… they are no more.”
Zeil gave him a serious look, “I have to get there… I have to get to Equestria now.”

Chief Rafi spoke with a convincing tone, “And how do you intend on doing this? You’re still a long way from getting there and what destroyed the city is now on the move.”
Zeil tried to think, “There has to be a way… a spell, something… I have to get to Zecora… I have to save her.”
Rafi smiled, “I admire your devotion… but it is unneeded.”
Zeil was confused, “What do you mean?”
Rafi smiled, “Zecora survived the endeavor, and she will go on to survive the rest of this calamity.”
Cunningham stepped forward, “And what of that creature we sensed? What is it?”

Chief Rafi replied, “A dark imbalance… one that ended the city of Eden and brought the end to the alicorn race.”
Zeil and Cunningham were confused as Zeil replied, “What do you mean imbalance?”
Rafi sighed, “What did you learn while under the roof of the Ibex temple?”
Zeil replied, “Well, I learned inner peace, centering balance, an-“
“Exactly… Balance is everything in this world. Light and dark, day and night, Good… and evil.”
Cunningham replied, “Explain…”
Chief Rafi replied, “Something extremely good was created… in which case… something extremely bad came of it. And though she was unable to save the rest of the alicorn race, the queen of Eden was able to seal it away though… that act of good costed her, her own life.”

Cunningham nodded, “So…that’s how the queen of Eden died.”
Zeil was confused, “Queen of what?”
Cunningham explained, “The king and Queen of Eden were the titans that created the pony races. They are our deities, and their daughters, Luna and Celestia are the result of their love. They founded the City of Eden which was the last city of the alicorns. Sadly, it somehow vanished more then two thousand years ago.”
Rafi nodded, “Yes, and the evil responsible is now free. It destroyed Equestria and as we speak… it spreads to devour all life as we know it.”
Zeil asked, “What do we do?”
Rafi replied, “Journey south to the city of Perch. Then… hide. Doing this is the only way to see your survival in this crisis.”
Zeil shook his head, “No I have to get to Equestria. I have to save Zecora.”
Rafi replied with an objective tone, “Do not worry for Zecora’s safety. You must see to your own first.”

Cunningham asked, “And what of this darkness?... how do we kill it?”
Rafi replied, “You do not… that task is for another.”
Zeil asked, “Who? Who is going to destroy this darkness?”
Rafi smiled, “A dear friend, one who we must place our prayers in. Just know that you may face this evil before that happens. If you do though… you will not survive.”
Zeil asked, “Is there a way to fend it off or neutralize it to escape?”
Rafi shook his head, “No… all who face him will die.”
Cunningham asked, “So… run and hide… is that all we can do?”
Rafi nodded as he turned away, “Heed this warning, let nopony face this threat, alone or in groups. He cannot and will not be defeated by any mortal power. Though… for one such as you Cunningham… he may be your redemption.”

With that said, Rafi vanished, as both Zeil and Cunningham awoke from their vision and were back in Cunningham’s home. Thinking over Rafi’s comment, Cunningham placed his hoof on his head as he spoke to his still paralyzed friend with a serious tone, “Zeil…”
Zeil tried to move but couldn’t as he replied, “Yea?”
Cunningham asked, “This Rafi… you trust his words? Ya don’t s’pose he made this whole mess up did he?”
Zeil couldn’t shake his head but he still replied with a tone that gave the same answer, as he spoke, “No… Everything Rafi says is always truth. He has never lied to me before… and I doubt he would now… especially with something this serious.”

Cunningham nodded, “Then… I must address the clan.”
Cunningham trotted to the table as he closed the book that was on the table then started gathering his things as Zeil spoke, “Wait… are you going to let me go first? You trust me now right? So cure me of this spell.”
Cunningham gathered his things then trotted back to the table as he replied, “Don’t worry lad, the spell should wear off in twenty minutes or so. By then just meet me and the clan at the pub. I'll need your help to explain exactly what’s going on. As Cunningham finished putting together a saddlebag Zeil replied, “What do you mean? Isn’t that flask right there in front of me the cure?”
Cunningham saw the small flask of liquid he pulled out earlier with the book as he smiled, “Oh, I almost forgot.”

With that, Cunningham picked up the flask, opened the top and splashed the clear liquid onto Zeil’s face as Zeil flinched at the unexpected action before speaking, “Hey! What is that?”
Cunningham replied, “Just a wee bit of holy water. Ya said somethin’ about a devil earlier so I just wanted to test and make sure you weren’t him… looks like ya passed laddie. Ya didn’t burst into flame when the water touched ya so I guess you’re in the clear. Then again, after speaking to that Rafi fella, I couldn’t be too sure.”
Cunningham placed the now empty flask back on the table as he put on his saddlebag and spoke “Remember laddie, the pub as soon as you can move. And I'd pack you a bag while you’re at it we’ll be leavin’ right after the meetin’. Perch ain’t a close city, so we need to cover some ground and soon.”
With nothing more to say Cunningham left the home as he closed the door behind him leaving the paralyzed changeling to speak, “Wait! You can’t just lea- an- and he’s gone… great…” he sighed in irritation, “Well… I guess I'll just wait till this wears off then… and… the water is making my nose itch… perfect.”

Thirty minutes later, Zeil in his zebra form, trotted into the village pub as he was surprised to see the entire village crammed into the same room. As he made his way through the herd, Zeil could hear the confusion in the clan as they spoke amongst each other. “What do ya suppose this is all about?”
“Don’t know, Cunningham called this meeting ‘emself. Seems like there was somethin’ important to have all businesses shut down for.”
“Aye, he had the fear of the devil in ‘em. Something spooked ‘em good.”
“And what bodes badly for the black druid can’t be good for the rest of us.”
Never hearing Cunningham referred to by that name, Zeil decided to continue through the herd till he reached the bar, however as he reached the bar, McNess took one look at him and spoke, “You… be grateful Cunningham can vouch for ya… otherwise I wouldn’t let trash like you into this place.”

Confused, Zeil replied, “Wh-what?...”
knowing that Zeil’s species was a secret, McNess sighed, “Don’t cause no guff and there won’t be no guff… I’m watching ya closely… wee bug.”
Confused by the hostility, Zeil tried to ignore the bartender as Cunningham entered from the back room as immediately every shire looked to him as one called, “Hey Cunningham! What’s this all about?”
Another called, “Aye, what did ya drag us all here for?”
Cunningham climbed onto the bar to get a good view of the herd as he called, “McHolt Clan! I hate to say it… but somethin’ is comin’… so… we best get go’n”
McNess spoke up, “What do ya mean?”
Cunningham replied, “Lads! One year ago Aria gave her very last prediction. She said that on the annual week of hear death two would be known. One evil and one good.”

Trying to piece together the message, Loach called as he pointed to Zeil in an accusing way, “And what is that stranger then? He appeared here this week, and we all know this is the week we destroyed the Highland Hive!”
The rest of the room started agreeing with the question as Zeil felt confused, “Highland…Hive?”
Trying to dodge the subject, Cunningham replied, “This lad is my student. At first I was concerned that he may very well be one or the other. Though as of this mornin’ I found that he is neither the good nor bad.”
McNess Replied with an untrusting tone, “Then what exactly is he, pray-tell?
Cunningham smiled, “I’m glad ya asked.” He looked down at Zeil, “Come on up here laddie.”
Feeling a little confused, Zeil climbed onto the bar and looked over the herd who only stared back in confusion as Cunningham spoke, “Alright now… show them who ya are.”

At first Zeil felt concerned about revealing himself when he was warned before, but considering what was coming he decided to comply as Zeil looked back over the herd and changed into his changeling form. As Zeil stood in his reformed state, the herd could only look at him in confusion, as one called, “What is he? Looks like a beetle.”
McNess called in anger, “He’s a Changeling! Ain’t he?”
As soon as that was said, Zeil started to feel nervous as a murderous hostility radiated from the herd as they all stared at him in anger before Cunningham called, “Now now lads. He ain’t a changeling per-say. He’s what I’ve dubbed, a Reform!”
The rage from the herd turned to curiosity as one asked, “A Reform?”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye…he’s a very unique creature from the changeling kingdom. He is similar to a changeling, only he don’t eat emotions like the rest of ‘em.”
Another asked, “Then what does he eat?”

Annoyed that the conversation was going off track, Zeil replied, “That doesn’t matter now, what matters is that the darkness is coming! And he’s bringing nothing but death in his wake.”
All of a sudden there was a loud slam as McNess pulled a large battle axe from under the bar and dropped it next to Zeil’s hooves on the bar as he spoke, “If he brings death, then we’ll force feed it back to ‘em.”
The room cheered as another shire called, “Aye! We got the Black druid on our side! We can take on anythin’. Just like he showed those changelings last year what happens when the McHolt clan are threatened.
The room cheered again as Zeil looked to Cunningham as the druid replied, “Hate to say it lads but this ain’t gonna be like last year. Those changelings died cuz they picked a fight with a foe they couldn’t best. If we do the same this year… then it’s us who will meet our end.”
McNess argued, “We ain’t one to give up our home without a fight Cunningham.”
“Then you will die fighting! For a pointless hill with shacks and grass.”

Everypony in the room stopped cheering in shock as Cunningham looked over the clan, “This creature… he ain’t like anythin’ we’ve face before. In fact… I have reason to believe he is responsible for the death of two titans.”
The room went silent as one spoke, “Titans?”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… this is the creature that destroyed Eden, and brought death to the alicorn race… and with em’, the king and Queen of Eden. And to make the matter worse, he laid waste to Canterlot and killed the daughters too.”
McNess spoke, “The royal daughters?...”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… they too have fallen to this dark creature.”
One of the shire in the herd called, “How could you know that? The royal sisters rule in a kingdom far from here! Nearly a colt alive who could travel there and bring back news in less than a few hours.”

Cunningham smiled as he nodded, “Aye that’s true, but thanks to the skills of me student, I witness the fall meself. This creature is comin’. And he aims to kill everythin’ in sight.”
McNess called, “And how can we trust this student o’ yours? Who’s to say he didn’t bring the darkness ‘emself?”
Cunningham looked at Zeil and smiled, “I thought the same at first…but then, I was reminded that not all strangers are untrustworthy. I trust the lad, so I hope you will too.”
The clan looked at one another and nodded in agreement as one replied for the group, “Well if the clan druid trust him, then we’ll follow your lead. If we shouldn’t fight… then what should we do?”
Cunningham trotted to the axe that was sitting on the bar he was standing on as he kneeled down, picked it up and handed it to McNess. After his brother in-law took the weapon from his hoof, he stood backup as he looked over the herd and spoke, “Starting as soon as this meeting ends, we will leave the village and head in different directions. I don’t want anypony to travel in a group any larger than four and you should avoid heavily populated areas like villages and cities.”

McNess asked in confusion, “You want us to leave the village?”
Cunningham nodded, “The darkness seeks to kill everything, he will look for towns and homes. The best bet for survival is to travel elsewhere. And if we travel in a group that’s too hard to hide, then it’d be no better than hiding in the center of a city.”
A mare stepped forward, “And what about the wee ones? Together with me of oaf a husband we make five.”
Cunningham nodded, “Foals travel with both parents. Even if the numbers are too high. We must always think of the wee ones after all.”
Still arguing the decision, McNess spoke up, “What if we assemble the clans? With their help we ca-”
Cunningham interrupted, “It’d be a waste. By the time we assemble them, one would have already fallen to the creature. And within the next day… the rest of us will follow.”

Still arguing, McNess tried to continue, “We can’t abandon our village… Aria would wan-”
“Aria would want her favorite brother to heed her last words. Those words were the last memories of her… I wouldn’t forgive myself if they were wasted.” He looked over the herd, “The Chief was a good mare, sister and wife. And she wouldn’t care if we abandon the village to keep the clan alive. After all, she placed us first in every matter. As will I as the clan druid, and as her widowed husband. We will return once this matter is passed. Then, whatever rubble we find in its stead, we will rebuild. We will keep her memory alive by heeding her warning. All I ask… is that you lads trust in me, as we all did her.”
The Clan looked amongst each other as Loach stepped forward, “Aye, I trust ya Cunningham, just as I always have.”
The rest of the clan started nodding in agreement as they each replied with words that showed they all agreed. “Aye, we’ll do what we can.” “That’s right, the clan will survive.” “We’ve been through worse, we can manage leavin’ for a quick holiday.”

Cunningham smiled at the clan’s support as he looked down to McNess as he smiled, “And you brother… will you do as I ask?”
McNess sighed as he replied, “Aye… I will… but don’t think I didn’t catch that favorite brother comment. I’m her only brother after all.”
Still standing on the bar, Cunningham bro-hoofed his in-law as he looked back over the clan and called, “Well? Let’s get too it! If the first group is ready to go then do so… I meself will be leavin’ right now. So I suggest you all do the same. Survive McHolt Clan, not for me, but for the chief.”
With that said, Cunningham climbed down from the bar as he looked back to Zeil and spoke, “So lad… are ya ready to go?”
Zeil turned back into a zebra as he too climbed down from the bar as he replied, “I am… but I want to ask you a few questions. First off, what’s with this… Black Druid stuff. If it’s what I think it is, then I need further explanation.”

Smiling casually, Cunningham replied, “I'll tell ya on the way, its gonna take us a couple of days to reach Perch.”
Zeil was surprised, “A couple of what?”
McNess approached as he spoke, “Then let’s be off… I’m goin’ too.”
Cunningham shook his head, “As much as I'd like that, I can’t allow it.”
McNess was surprised, “What? But why?”
Cunningham replied, “Where I’m going isn’t for you… the lad and I have to complete a task, something that… we have to do alone.”
McNess replied, “Your goin’ to Perch right?... so you off to warn the king… aren’t ya?”
Cunningham replied, “Not sure… all we know is that a guide has instructed us to the capital. So, far be it for me to ignore a spirit.”
McNess gave him a confused look, “Spirit?”

Cunningham continued, “Either way, I'll need you to look after the clan. If something should happen, I want you to lead them once this calamity is over. The lad and I can see to the task on our own.”
McNess gave Zeil an untrusting look as he replied, “Are ya sure you can trust him? Reform or not… he’s still a changeling.”
Cunningham replied, “The lads been honest enough to trust. I think, givin’ the trouble we are in… we can afford to risk it.”
McNess replied as he gave Zeil a dirty look, “If you say so… then, I'll do as you ask. But somethin’ does happen to you. Then I'll make sure what remains of the clan will hunt him down, and do with him, what we did to the Highland Hive… Weather he is responsible or not.”

Not liking the threat, Zeil replied with an angry look, “I won’t be… and if you try, you better bring more than just a petty threat.”
While Zeil and McNess gave each other dirty looks, Cunningham could since Zeil’s second aura, as he smiled and replied, “Carful laddie, that anger of yours could get you into another fight rather easily” he looked at McNess, “Don’t worry brother, I guarantee the lad is harmless… ya remember his encounter with Loach after all. If he acts up, I'll just have to take ‘em down meself.”
McNess sighed as he replied, “Just watch yourself. And… this creature. What if we do come across it? What then?”
Cunningham replied with a serious tone, “Run… hide… and prey it don’t find ya.”

Author's Note

This book follows the events of The Price of Harmony, but most can be explained without needing to read it.

Bk4/Ch4 The Dark Alicorn

Book 4/Chapter 4
The Dark Alicorn
Year 01, Month 07, Day 11

“Nopony knows who came first, but what we do know, is that in the beginning there were six deities who ruled the world. We, the mortals that they created, called ‘em Titans. The most known of these deities were two nameless alicorns who were referred to, as the King and Queen. They created all the pony, griffin, and horse races. The next was a forest and storm titan, known as Raiden the Thunder God. He created all creatures of the forest; wolves, deer, rabbits, the works. Next was a Dragoness Titan known as Infurnace, She ruled the lava pits and created the dragon races, other than sea serpents. And lastly, is the Leviathan. He is the creator of the sea creatures, serpents, and the Hippogriff race. Together these immortal beings ruled the world and kept they and their creations at peace with one another.”
Zeil and Cunningham continued trotting alongside each other down the long winding trail as Zeil asked, “If they are Immortal… then how could the King and Queen be killed?”

Cunningham replied with a smiled, “Cuz they are immortal… but only in youth and beauty. Both could live for eternity if needed, but… if you were to charge one with a swords and catch ‘em off guard, then stabbing them would have the same effect of any of their creations. They could be wounded, and if badly enough, killed. After all, that’s what happened to all of ‘em. Well accept for the Leviathan, he is the last of the titans and still lives in his personal sector of the sea.”
Zeil gave Cunningham a curious look, “But… you said there were six deities… what about the Sixth?”
Cunningham shrugged his shoulders, “Nopony knows… he and his name was lost to the world after Eden vanished. Word is, he was a real tyrant. He wanted to take the world for ‘emself, so he betrayed the other titans, amassed an army of his own creation, and tried to destroy all that the other titans strived to protect.”
Zeil was curious, “What creatures did he create?”

Cunningham hesitated as he replied, “Well… Minotaur, Apes, Demons, Wendigo, Zebra, and… Changelings.”
Zeil was surprised, “What?”
Cunningham tried to reply without offending him, “Aye… his creations were meant to deceive, control, and were rather violent in nature. He amassed an army of his own and started the world’s first war. But… because of his deception, the rest of the titans joined forces and defeated him. He would have faced execution, however he Queen of Eden was strongly against death, so she created a realm that would be meant to house the most dangerous of creatures, and for added insult, thy imprisoned him there and made his most loyal pet Cerberus guard the place so that none could ever escape.”

The path started up a hill as Zeil replied, “Tartarus… And… nopony knows his name?”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… Eden held the largest library of knowledge and history that the world had ever known, so when the city became lost to time, we were set back many centuries. If not for the guidance of the royal sisters, then we pony races would have fallen to the Dark Ages. Luckily, after that titan was imprisoned, his creations chose their own lives afterwards. Monitor I hear are trustworthy to a point. Zebra have become a well-respected race… but the rest…”
Zeil nodded, “yea, yea… I know… it’s the reason you destroyed the Highland Hive after all.”
Cunningham became a little nervous, “So… still mad about that are ya? I told ya that story a number of days ago.”
Zeil replied, “I can’t say I approve, but… I do understand. As long as you do feel some sort of regret… I think that’s punishment enough.”
Cunningham nodded, “Indeed I do laddie… I just wish the rest of the clan would as well. Black Druid, Hero of the Highland Hive War… Nick names I didn’t want. After Aria… Me wife was killed, A rage filled my body… one that could only be soothed in blood. But after it was over… after I killed the assassin, destroyed the hive and even used one of their wings to curse myself and made a golden joke… I just…”

Cunningham couldn’t finish, instead he silenced himself as Zeil could since his guilt fed sorrow, he could only sigh in pity as he spoke, “Peace brings tranquility, and that’s what you need to survive.”
Cunningham was confused, “What?”
Zeil explained, “The temple that I stayed at in the Far East… While I was there, there was another changeling who said those words. Basically, they mean that in order to survive, one must have control of his anger, and maintain his mental peace. If you let anger control your actions then it will only lead to problems.”
Cunningham Smiled, “Wise words… ya sure it was a changeling that said ‘em?”
Zeil gave Cunningham a dirty look as Cunningham chuckled, “I’m kidding lad, just a joke. No need to get hostile. Just trying to lift the mood is all.”
As he said that, Zeil and Cunningham reached the top of the hill as the druid looked into the distance and spoke, “And… there’s a sight to lower it back down.”
As the duo looked over the hill, Zeil could see a large wall made of very old stone, surrounding a large city of ruins with a massive but very old castle at the far end.

Looking at the city Cunningham spoke, “Welcome to Perch lad.”
Zeil looked at the old stone walls as he spoke, “Wow… how old is this city?”
Cunningham replied, “Many centuries old… Well…” He started trotting towards the city, “Let’s get to it.”
As the two approached the massive walls, Zeil looked at the old stone and felt a little confused, Like most ancient ruins, the large wall had moss growing up it that reached about half way to the top, however the stone above the moss didn’t seemed as old as the stone below it, in fact the stone towards the top seemed almost brand new. However as Zeil looked to Cunningham to ask about it, Cunningham spoke first, “How good is your ability to sense aura laddie? I'd think since mine is a curse, your is probably better right?”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “We automatically sense all aura within twenty feet just out of reflex, but if we are on edge or if we simply try, we can sense anything within a mile or so. Why?”
Cunningham stopped in the city’s gateway as he asked, “Could ya try it? I just want to be sure of somthin’. See how far into this city you can sense and see if anypony is here.”
Though the request was odd, Zeil still nodded as he stopped beside him and tried to since the aura of every living creature from where he stood, to the furthest point in the city. After doing so, Zeil spoke, “Well I can only sense about half way through the city, but there are a large number of rodents, mice, rats, squirrels, even a few rabbits, but no ponies, shire, or other intelligent life.”
Cunningham continued trotting through the gate as he replied, “That’s what I was afraid of.”
As they continued Zeil had to ask, “Exactly… how long had it been since these ruins were abandon?”
Cunningham replied, “My guess… less than a day.”

As they entered the city, Zeil saw what he meant, Inside the old ancient walls were new buildings that still looked lived in, all except for the large holes in the rooves and walls that resembled the damaged buildings in Zeil’s visions of Canterlot, mere moments before it was destroyed. Staring in shock, Zeil spoke, “These… aren’t ancient ruins are they?”
Cunningham shook his head, “No…they ain’t. This is… was, the capital city of the Highlands. And in that castle, is where our king would be. Though I’m guessing, our guest got here first.”
Zeil was curious, “King? But I thought you were led by a chief?”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye, we are, but all clan chiefs answer to a king. Though I think now… that isn’t so.”
Cunningham continued trotting through the streets towards the center of the city as Zeil followed closely behind. After a while the streets led to a large empty plaza with a fountain in the center as Cunningham stopped and looked around, “Anything yet? Any known survivors?”
Zeil shook his head, “None… seems like the whole city is gone.”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… so… I guess there is a change in plans.”
Zeil gave him a confused look, “We had a plan?”

Cunningham turned towards Zeil as he spoke, “Guess its best we separate for now, try to find a grocery store or somthin’ it will be night soon and I for one could use a bite.”
Zeil replied, “So, we are going to take it.”
Cunningham replied, “It ain’t gonna do anypony else any good… not anymore. While you do that I'll go find us a decent place to stay. Hopefully we can find a place with a whole roof and two beds. I would choose the castle, but I'd rather choose a place that isn’t too obvious in case the creature makes another round. When you find food, meet me back here, I'll do the same once I find us a place to cook it.”
Zeil nodded, “Sure… I'll do that.”
With that the two parted ways as Zeil made his way towards the shopping district, and Cunningham towards the residential areas.

Not long after Zeil arrived at a store, he entered the place of business as he saw the shelves were untouched by any of the rubble made from the large hole in the ceiling over the checkout counter. All though he couldn’t sense the aura of anypony inside, he still called as he looked through the empty store, “Hello?...anypony here?”
After being answered by complete silence Zeil just sighed as he mumbled, “Not a soul to be seen. Oh well… I guess I should get some foo-”
As Zeil looked around the building, he noticed something interesting as he looked at the placement of the hole in the ceiling, and its position over the checkout desk. Curious, Zeil stepped behind the counter and looked directly at the hole as he notice something strange.

The damage in the roof, and his exact placement seemed to match perfectly as if whatever made the hole struck on the exact place that Zeil was standing, which was most likely where the cashier was standing prior to the attack. Seeing this, Zeil spoke, “So… the creature attacked from outside, and managed to strike the residents with only one try.”
He looked at the ground around him, “No blood or sign of struggling. The victim died either instantly… or, he could have been devoured like in my vision. Sadly… I don’t think it was painless.”
After this discovery, Zeil decided to get back to his task as he started searching the store for something to eat.

Not far down the road, Cunningham entered a home as he started trotting through the residents. Looking around, Cunningham could see the same thing that Zeil saw only the holes in this building pierced the second story, and struck the chairs next to a dinner table as Cunningham noticed food still sitting on the table as he spoke, “So… they were preparing for breakfast when it happened.”
Cunningham approached the table but as he did, he stepped on something strange as the druid looked at his hooves to see small piles of black sand on the ground around his hooves. Curious, Cunningham picked up the sand and examined it closely. As he looked at the sand he mumbled, “Interestin’…” before anything more could be said, Cunningham could hear something that caught his attention. Hearing what sounded like bubbling coming from the kitchen stove, Cunningham dropped the sand and started towards the stove to investigate. Although right after he dropped and trotted passed the sand, the black grains came to life as the sand slithered away from Cunningham without him seeing the strange action.

With his focus on the bubbling sound, Cunningham approached the burner with caution as he saw a pot of water boiling on the stove. As soon as he saw the boiling pot, Cunningham turned off the burner as he mumbled, “The water wasn’t completely evaporated… The attack happened less than it would take for that water to boil away. Which means…”His expression became nervous, “he’s still here…”
All of a sudden, Cunningham heard a voice that sent a cold chill down his spine as it spoke, “Very observant… you seem much wiser than the rest of the residents of this city. And yet, you were not here for my arrival. That’s… unfortunate for you.”
Slowly, Cunningham turned around as he saw what he had hoped he wouldn’t. Standing behind him, was a tall dark alicorn who stood with a curious smile on his face. As Cunningham looked into the eyes of the creature they were supposed to hide from, He could only feel worry as he hid his emotions and replied, “Is that so…” He turned completely towards the dark alicorn as he continued, “So… you’re the one I’ve been expecting… the dark creature who destroyed Eden, and Equestria with it.”

The dark Alicorn smiled as he replied, “I feel somewhat at a loss… you seem to know me well enough, and yet I do not have the pleasure of knowing you at all.”
Still making small talk, Cunningham replied, “Then let me introduce myself; my name is Cunningham. I am the druid of the McHolt Clan and its key enchanter. And you?”
The Dark creature smiled as he replied, “You are not worthy to know my true name… that honor is for higher races.”
Cunningham Gave the creature a dull look as he slowly reached into his rags as he readied himself, “A higher race eh…” He pulled out a veil of red potion as he threw it down and yelled, “THAT’S A SHAME!!!”
At that moment, the glass vial shattered against the ground, as Cunningham darted towards the closest window and shielded his face as he jumped through the glass and into the street outside. Inside the tall creature looked down at the strange red liquid for a few seconds before the potion started glowing as the dark alicorn smiled, “Delayed glycerin… cleaver.”

Back at the store, Zeil was looking at the items on the shelf as he mumbled, “Gluten free bread… I thought bread was gluten… then, what the heck is gluten then?”
All of a sudden Zeil heard a loud explosion as he dropped the bread in surprise from the unexpected sound. With the loud sound bringing his attention away from his task and back on their situation, Zeil realized something as he spoke in worry, “That aura… Cunningham!...”
With worry, Zeil quickly rushed outside as he looked at the smoke that was towering over the buildings as Zeil spoke, “The creature is here… Cunningham… Are you actually trying to fight it?”
With that said, Zeil started running down the road towards the smoke as fast as he could. As Zeil reached the corner of the next street, the disguised changeling could see Cunningham picking himself up from the center of the road as rubble from the destroyed building continued to fall onto the area around him.

As soon as he saw Cunningham, Zeil started trotting towards him as Cunningham looked at the destroyed rubble of the building he just evacuated and put his hoof out, signaling Zeil to stop. Seeing the signal, Zeil paused as he understood and slowly eased to the side of the road, before watching Cunningham from the cover of a nearby alley. Although Cunningham never looked at Zeil during his actions, he knew Zeil was hidden as he lowered his hoof and continued watching the ruins of the now burning building as vines made from black sand slithered out of the wreckage as they gathered in front of the damaged structure and bundled up as a voice was heard, “Very impressive… Few alchemist exist with the knowledge of creating delayed glycerin… and even fewer with the courage, due to its violent reaction with air.”

As the sand took form of the dark alicorn, Cunningham replied with a casual tone, “Ya know your magic… strange… I’d figure you’re more of a monster then a magician.”
The Alicorn smiled as he replied, “I may be what I am now… but at one time, I served as the Queen’s top scientist and most skilled magician.”
Cunningham gave the creature an angry look, “and what changed ya? How did one sink so low as to kill all life as we know it?”
The Alicorn smiled at Cunningham’s anger as he replied, “Not all life… just the life that chooses to worship an abomination of nature.”
Cunningham gave the alicorn a confused look, “Abomination? Better explain that one to me lad.”

The dark alicorn began pacing around Cunningham as he spoke, “What law of nature must every living thing follow? What absolute truth is the fate of all creatures in this or any existence?”
Although the alicorn gave Cunningham time to answer, it wasn’t needed as the druid spoke, “Death… anything that must live, must die.”
The alicorn stopped pacing, “Precisely… all that lives, will one day die… and yet, the king and queen of Eden would not. They who create life from the very dust around them… are not bound by their own law. How hypocritical and cruel must you be to bestow something so temporary, and yet, not suffer its end? And these… Immortals expect us to worship them as if what they gave us is a blessing?”
Cunningham replied, “I ain’t very bright lad… but if I know the old stories, none of the titans actually required us to worship ‘em. Not even the bad one. So… I think there is something else that drove ya to this madness. Isn’t there?”

The dark alicorn smiled sinisterly, “You are much wiser then I gave you credit for… but if you must know. My true reason was my servitude.”
“go on…”
The dark alicorn spoke with a serious tone, “I gave my life for the queen I trusted, both figuratively and literally. And yet the day my life was to be blessed with another… something happened, that claimed the life of both my wife, and her unborn foal. On the very day I was to give my life for the greater good… I lost my reason to do so.”
Cunningham spoke, “So… you were to be a father, and an unfortunate birthing claimed the life of both your wife and foal, do I got that right?”
The alicorn nodded, “Yes… The queen has always spoken of preserving the life she gave us… so why would she claim it so heartlessly… unless… she truly didn’t care for us at all. She and that king care not for their creations… instead they mock us, by bestowing us the so called gift of life, before heartlessly seizing it from our grasp when we least expect it. So… if they wish to be heartless, then so will I… I will seek to dispose of all their so called, creations. Any who choose to praise them and their gift of life, will meet the same fate… Death… in its truest form.”
Cunningham gave him an annoyed look, “So that’s your reason for killing millions?”
The alicorn nodded, “shouldn’t it be reason enough?”

At first, Cunningham looked at the ground and hid his face, as Zeil from his hiding spot could feel an intense rage buildup in the druid’s emotions. Then, the rage seems to fade to pity as something unexpected happened. Cunningham started chuckling lightly to himself, which soon build up to laughter, before the druid looked to the sky, laughing as loud as he could as his laughter echoed through the empty city streets. Confused, Zeil and the alicorn watched as Cunningham finally toned down his laughter enough for him to speak, “So that’s it then… full-fledged genocide of an entir- no hundreds of civilizations over something as simple as your wife and foal?” he chuckled a little more, “lad…” His laughter ceased entirely, “ya don’t know how foolish you sound.”
The alicorn gave Cunningham an angry look, “I beg your parden?...”

The druid replied with a serious and annoyed tone as if the laugh he had was nonexistent, “you killed millions of lives all for the sake of two… I know I can’t say much, but that… that has to be the most idiotic thing I’ve ever heard in all my days. You say you were a scientist? Ya must have been the stupidest scientist I ever knew. Two lives… for millions. That math don’t add up laddie. Fact of it is… you ain’t doin’ this for them… oh no… your doin’ it cuz you’re nothing more than a coward.” He raised his voice, “Aye ya heard me right! A foolish little baby! Cryin in ya crib, oh woe-was-me… me poor wife and me unborn foal died. Oh wait ya know what will fix this? MASS GENOCIDE! Aye ya thought killen million would make ya feel better for their death? Ya dead wrong ya gether-uping-blate-maw. I think that horn on ya head is interfearin’ with your grain of sand sized brain ya winy bleatherin’ little nothin’! Hey! Now hear’s an idea, why don’t cha climb back to your crib, cry me a river ‘bout all the wrong ya feel the world had done ya, then take all the timber of troubles ya got, build me a sturdy bridge… AND GET OVER IT!!! Ya tear gerkin’, sand brained, thousand year old, BA-”

Though the distance between the two and Zeil was too far for the hidden changeling to hear the conversation, he could still hear every word of Cunningham’s outburst as the disguised changeling listened in surprise of each and every insult the shire gave the dark creature. However as Cunningham continued his rant, The dark alicorn soon lost his temper as he sent a black sand vine up from the ground as it wrapped around Cunningham’s neck and lifted the angry shire in the air, silencing him before he could finish his insult. The dark creature glared at the struggling shire as he spoke in an intense rage, “You blasphemic fool… how dare you speak down to me as if I were the dirt beneath your hooves. I am of the alicorn race, your better… and I will not be spoken down to by a pathetic shire like you.”
Cunningham smiled as he continued to struggle with his words, “I guess I hit a nerve… need I remind you that you turn into the literal sand beneath my hoo-”
The dark alicorn tightened the vine around Cunningham’s throat cutting off his speech as the Alicorn spoke, “Silence peasent…I have indulged your presence for long enough. Its time you meet the same fate as your queen.”

Cunningham looked down to see that the black sand that made up the vine started spreading across his body as he started struggling to shake it off. However with the sand clinging to his coat like glue, he was unable to shake it away as the druid looked to the alicorn as the dark creature finished his sentence with only one word, “Death.”
Seeing that there was no escape, Cunningham stopped struggling as he spoke, “Fine… then I'll see you shortly… wee baby…” Happy he got one last insult in, Cunningham smiled peacefully as he mumbled, “Looks like I'll be seein’ ya soon Aria. Shame I couldn’t help the lad more.”
With only a slight shift in his eyes, Cunningham looked to where Zeil was hiding as he mumbled, “The zebra was right… this truly is my redemption… for the highland hive… and for you Zeil.”
Not hearing his words, the dark alicorn watched as his sand spread across all of Cunningham’s body in till what stood before him was a tall black pillar with no resemblance to the shire inside it.

No longer able to see Cunningham amongst the sand, Zeil quickly turned away as he leaned against the wall of the alley as he tried to decide what to do. Part of him kept saying that he had to charge in and save his friend, but another was telling him to honor his decision, run, and hide. However, before he could decide, he could only feel disappointed as the aura that was once Cunningham, slowly faded to nothing. After feeling that his friend was now gone, Zeil looked back at the event in the street as he watched the tall black pillar in front of the dark alicorn, melt away into sand leaving not a single remnant of the druid behind. Knowing that this was the same fate as those killed in his dream, Zeil continued to keep himself hidden as the dark alicorn looked at the small pile of sand in front of him with no expression, “Foolish peasant… if he had simply known his place, he would have lived longer. Never the less, it’s done now.”
With that said, the dark creature turned away and started trotting down the street away from where Zeil was hiding.

Zeil looked at the pile of sand in disappointment, then he looked up at the one responsible. As he saw the alicorn trotting away with no expression, Zeil started to feel an intense anger build up. The dark creature continued trotting until he felt something as he paused and mumbled, “There is another here… but… wait…” His eyes widened, “Can it be?…”
At that moment, the dark creature turned around and made direct eye contact with Zeil from down the street as if he had known the changeling was hiding there the whole time. Seeing that he was immediately spotted, Zeil’s anger quickly turned to fear as he stepped back, “Oh no…”
Knowing there was no surviving this fight, Zeil immediately turned around to flee. However as he did, he was quickly stopped when he found that the dark creature that was watching him from hundreds of feet down the road, was now standing directly behind him blocking his only escape. As soon as he saw the dark alicorn, Zeil froze in shock, he knew that he couldn’t win a fight against this creature, nor could he even buy himself time to think of a way to escape. All the terrified changeling could do, was wait for whatever form of death the dark monster would bring.

Then without warning, Zeil’s fear turned to confusion, as the expressionless alicorn bowed in respect before speaking with a humble tone, “To stand in the presence of a titan… Tis truly an honor milord.”
Zeil had never been so confused, all he could do was stare at the dark creature as the alicorn looked up from his bow and saw the confusion on the zebra disguised changeling’s face. Seeing this, the alicorn rose from his bow as he continued, “Wait… you are no titan. But a changeling harboring his power.”
Zeil was confused, “H-how did you know I was a-”
The alicorn spoke, “Tell me… which titan has bestowed his power upon you?... Speak!”
Zeil tried to think as he replied, “T-titan?”
The alicorn thought to himself, “You do not know?... hmm… could it be that you have yet to awaken him… or do you not yet know how to possess his power?”

Zeil had no idea what was happening, all he could do was stare in confusion at the dark creature as the alicorn stopped thinking and spoke, “No matter… If you have yet to awaken his power, then you are no current interest to me.” he stood up properly, “None-the-less, permit me to introduce myself… my name is Professor Osiris of Eden.” He bowed politely, “I would be honored to know your mortal name changeling.”
Zeil had no idea how to respond, so he just replied, “M-my name is Zeil…”
The alicorn smiled, “Lord Zeil… a fitting name. I request you to remember mine, for when you awaken the power within you… I would be honored to serve you, milord.”
With that said, the dark creature turned to leave, “Until we meet again, I shall bid you adieu.”
As the creature started to leave, something took hold as Zeil spoke up, “Stop!”
The dark creature paused as he spoke, “Forgive me… but I haven’t the time to convers. I still have to finish what I started. There are more followers of the queen to dispose of.”
Zeil replied in anger, “you mean murder… like you did Cunningham?”

Surprised by Zeil’s angry tone, the dark creature turned to the zebra disguised changeling, then he looked to where Cunningham had fallen, then back at Zeil as he replied, “ah… I see. I killed your servant. I should have guessed that one with a destiny such as yours would have such a strong follower. I would ask that you forgive my actions, though you would know what becomes of one who speaks ill of his betters.”
Zeil replied as he reached into his saddlebag, “He wasn’t my servant… he was my teacher… let me show you what he taught me!”
Thinking this was his only chance, Zeil pulled out a small veil as he opened the top and flung the greenish powder out at the dark alicorn. After flinging the powdery contents on his opponent, Zeil quickly shielded himself with his cloak as he jumped back from the cloud of powder in hoped that the poisonous substance wouldn’t make contact with his skin.

After getting a safe distance from the powder coated alicorn, Zeil removed his cloak and tossed it aside so that any remnant of the power that was on it wouldn’t touch him as he looked at the alicorn and waited. Confused the dark creature looked at the powder that was on him as he spoke, “Strange… am I to assume this to be some sort of spell? I’m afraid I’m not familiar wi-“
Before he could finish, the dark creature noticed some of the sand that made up his body started deteriorating as if fell off of his hoof as if his flesh was falling off his limb. Seeing this made Zeil smile, “Good, it does work on you… I knew it was a good idea to bring that along. I just hope that powder is as poisonous as Cunningham said it was… without apples at least.”
Hearing the statement made the dark alicorn smile, “Interesting… a powder that neutralizes my magic? Or… does it cause some sort of paralysis? No matter…”
At that moment, the dark creature melted into a pile of sand before regenerating himself only a foot from his original position leaving only the powder coated sand in his previous place.

Confused Zeil looked at the dark creature, as the alicorn looked at his powderless hoof and spoke, “That spell was not your own was it… pity… It would have been wise to use your own spells rather than somepony else’s, then you would have known that you used a contact spell, and with my physicality, spells like that are pointless.” He sighed in irritation, “I shall let you know that challenging you was not my intention, though I cannot allow you to stop me from completing my fate, all who worship the alicorn queen will die.”
Feeling nervous, Zeil reached into his saddlebag as he pulled a blue potion out before replaying, “I can’t let that happen, even if I can’t win… I won’t stand by while you kill more innocent lives!”
Trying again, Zeil stomped his hoof against the ground as hard as he could causing the small vail of potion to shatter as the potion spread across the bottom of his hoof before changing colors from blue to white. At that moment, Zeil’s green zebra eyes turned blue as took a step towards his foe and swung the same hoof upwards in the alicorns direction as if to kick up dust towards his enemy. As he did this, tall icy spikes shot up from the ground in a long trail as they homed in on the dark creature before sending five of them to pierce his body, three in his torso, one in his left front hoof, and one in his right hind hoof. However, Osiris wasn’t fazed by any of the impaled portions of his body, as he reached up with his free front hoof and grabbed one of the spikes in his chest, “Elemental magic… impressive, in the past, this was an impossibility for one without the magic of a unicorn horn. Though… it is a fruitless act. Mortal wounds also have no effect on-”

As the dark creature griped a spike that was piercing his chest, Ice began forming on his hoof and around the wounds as it quickly ran across his body covering his black coat in a thick layer of ice. Like Cunningham with the sand, Osiris watched as ice started forming across his entire body before looking at Zeil with an annoyed expression, mere moments before ice spread across his face immortalizing this expression in a frozen state. Smiling at his now frozen foe Zeil spoke, “Try that for a mortal wound, frozen from the inside out… let’s just hope you stay that way.”
As Zeil smiled at his seemingly defeated foe, his smile was cut short when he heard a voice speak, “I grow tired of this… let us end it now.”
At that moment, the ice covering the frozen alicorn started cracking as the surprised enchanter backed away from what he thought to be a neutralized foe.

Watching in worry, Zeil backed into the center of the street as he looked back at his foe, but as he did he saw something strange. On the ground in front of the cracking statue, a small black glass spike rose from the ground slowly until it was about shoulder high to Zeil. Seeing the lone spike confused Zeil, but then right in front of that one, a second spike rose, this time almost instantaneously. Afterword, a third spike shot up, then a fourth, then a fifth. Before he knew it, a string of glass spikes where shooting up as it came towards Zeil in the same way as the ice did before. Seeing his incoming threat, Zeil tried to back up more and more but as he did, he soon found himself against a wall as the spikes got closer with each second. With one more effort, Zeil ran his icy hoof along the ground leaving a small U shaped wall of ice to shoot up in front of him however as the next glass spike shot up, it shattered the small wall of ice causing Zeil to rear back to protect his face from the ice. However as he did, he felt a punch in his back that cause all his senses to go numb. His sight faded, his ears began ringing, and his body went numb then limp, but despite all that, he didn’t fall to the ground, instead he stayed suspended on his hind hooves.

Slowly after a brief moment, Zeil’s icy blue eyes slowly turned back to green as his senses came back with an incredible pain in his back and chest. As his sight returned following the pain, Zeil could only look down to see the blood covered black glass spike as it protruded from his chest after passing through from behind his back. With only enough strength to move his head, Zeil turned around to see that the base of the glass spike in his body was coming from the wall behind him. Seeing the spike that impaled him, Zeil tried to move, however his entire body felt too weak to do anything other than hang from the glass barb that held him on his hind hooves mere feet from the wall behind him. Even when trying to lift his hoof to touch the spike, the rest of his body refused to respond as he could only coughed up a little blood before looking back at the still frozen statue of the one that caused this injury. As Zeil looked at the cracked ice with the dark alicorn inside, he could see the statue crumbled into icy shards leaving no form of the alicorn in its place. With no sign of the alicorn anywhere, the glass spikes that trailed towards Zeil slowly melted away into sand before forming back up into Osiris, leaving only one spike, the one suspending Zell on his hind hooves.

As the alicorn approached, he smiled, “Fear not changeling… My intent wasn’t simply to end your life, though I would refrain from moving. So long as your wound stays in place, you might live.”
Zeil tried to speak, but his weakness showed as he could only mutter, “B- bu… w-wha…”
The Alicorn replied, “Why did I spare you?... simple, your power has yet to awaken, and in the aftermath, I can see no lord more fitting to serve then one who bears the aura of a Titan. That, and if I were to simply kill you, I would risk awakening your power by force. And even I would not dare face the wrath of a titan scorned.”
Zeil’s expression became angry, “y- yo… I w-whi…”
“I would also advise against speaking… though the wound is not lethal, I fear I may have grazed a vital organ. Despite this wound however, I would wager the titan within you wouldn’t let you die so easily. So with that said… I shall bid you adieu. When we meet next, I may be willing to serve you assuming that by then, your true power will be awoken and the world, rather what’s left of it, will bow to your tyranny. So till that day comes to fruition, goodbye, milord.”

With that said, The dark alicorn opened his wings as the sand in his wings built them up to a massive size as the bat like wings lifted the creature off the ground and into the sky. Watching the dark creature vanish into the clouds, Zeil mustered up the strength to lift his hoof and grab the spike protruding from his chest. Although he was able to do so, he had no further strength, as he tried to pull himself off the spike, only to lift himself about a quarter of an inch before losing his strength and falling back onto the spike with a painful cringe. With his muscles tensing in his attempt, the pain he felt only increased all the more as it soon became too much for him to bear as he started feeling light headed, “I… c-cant… f-fail n-now… Z-Zecora… I… ”
Zeil did everything he could to stay conscious, but it was no, his blood loss, along with the unbearable pain he felt soon over took him, as everything around him faded until all he could see was black.

Moments ago, Hundreds of miles from the city of Perch, a small army of Griffin were setting up a camp for the night in the outskirts of the Griffin Kingdoms. Amongst them were a small parity of Equestrian survivors who were talking amongst themselves next to a camp fire as the leading griffin commander spoke, “I keep thinking that I'll just wake up and none of this will be real. Dad will be alright, and the king won’t be dead.”
A cerulean blue pegasus sitting next to her replied, “I know what you mean, Cloudsdale… Ponyville… it’s all gone.”
A large dark pegasus with a black and yellow mane spoke next, “Gilda… how many are joining us for this fight?”
The Griffin replied, “About ninety… it’s all we have after Gryphus fell.”
A cream colored unicorn with a purple mane replied, “To think that so many have fallen. It’s tragic to say the least.”
Twilight Sparkle sat silent with bandages covering her torso as the dark pegasus looked to her and spoke, “Princess… you okay? Your wound isn’t hurting you is it?”

Twilight shook her head as she replied, “No… not anymore than usual… it’s just… I don’t know what we will do when we get there. We lost so many of us already, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Pinkie, Fluttershy… I just don’t know if we have chance at winning this.”
A yellowish orange pegasus added, “Don’t forget Soarin and the rest of my Wonderbolts… the dark alicorn killed them all… how do we beat something like that?”
An orange earthpony replied, “This is a real pickle, we hit em’ dead center with the elements and the commander’s power and it barely did anythin’. And now with two elements down… I just don’t know how this is gonna work.”

Everypony looked amongst each other in concern for their reactions as Twilight looked to the dark pegasus and asked, “What do you think Star B- I mean, Commander Bolt? Any ideas on how to fight him?”
Commander Bolt sighed, “All we can do is distract him long enough to use what elements we have, then I'll hit him with all I got… but if I do…” he stood up and looked at his team as he spoke, “Twilight, Rarity, Apple Jack, Zecora, Spitfire, Dash, Gilda… I can’t say we will win, I can’t even promise that we will survive this fight at all… but… whatever happens… I’m glad to be facing it with my friends.”
The team smiled at the confident speech as Zecora replied, “To hear your courage of determined might bring us all emotions of hope filled light. I only pray it will assist in this final fi-”
All of a sudden, a tear rolled down Zecora’s face as she paused and wiped it away in confusion. As the rest of the party saw this, Twilight asked, “Zecora? Is something wrong?”

Zecora shook her head as she replied, “I’m not sure… to say simply I don’t know… but for some strange reason, I had a feeling of woe.”
Commander Bolt Replied, “You may just be tired. We’ve been traveling for days and rest is probably what we all need right now.”
Twilight nodded as she replied, “Commander Bolt is right, It’s probably a good idea if we call it a night.”
The group nodded in agreement as they started to disperse to go to their tents. As the group went to bed for the night, Zecora doused the fire with water, then looked back to the stars above as she mumbled, “This painful feeling seems strangely bazar, but… is it from troubles here? Or… Afar?”

Bk5/Ch1 A Familiar Scenario

Book 5/Chapter1
A Familiar Scenario
Year 03, Month 05, Day 12

In the center of a large majestic city sat a tall marble white castle that over looked the kingdom. Outside the master bedchambers to this very castle, stood two royal guards wearing magenta colored armor. As they stood guard, another a soldier with a white coat and brown mane approached wearing dark Raven armor as the two guards straitened their stance as one spoke, “Good morning Captain.”
The unicorn captain replied, “As you were… anything to report?”
The solders shook his head, “No sir. The night was uneventful as usual.”
The captain replied with a serious tone, “Don’t let that drop your guard for the next shift… the princess’s safety is always priority.”
The soldier nodded, “Of course sir, I would never.”

The captain looked at both soldiers and spoke, “You are relieved, go get your rest and report tonight same time.”
The soldiers saluted their leader as they replied, “Yes Sir.”
With that, the two soldiers left their post as the captain adjusted his armor before slowly opening the door and entering the bedchambers. When he was in the dark room the captain casually trotted to the side of the bed as he used his unicorn magic to open the balcony window curtains from where he was standing. As soon as the curtains opened, the sunlight shined into the room as the mare in the bed rolled over trying to ignore the light that just shined in. Seeing that the princess was awake, the captain spoke, “Princess Blossom… Its time to wake for your daily duties.”
The princess covered herself with the blanket as she replied with her voice being muffled, “Please… Five more minutes…”
the captain smiled, “I assumed you would say that your majesty… that’s why I chose to wake you ten minutes late.”

When she heard that, the princess uncovered her face as she asked, “Ten minutes?...”
The soldier nodded, “Yes your majesty… the current time is eight ten A.M.”
Hearing his words, the princess sighed as she sat up in the bed before stretching her hooves. The Unicorn princess was beautiful with a cyan blue coat and a sea green mane that was long and at this time, frizzled from her recent sleep. As she stretched, she spoke with sarcasm, “Captain Rainier… how do I expect to be a responsible princess if you insist on keeping me irresponsible?”
Reiner replied with a smile, “You can always blame it on me your majesty.”
The princess smiled at his reply as she spoke in a joking manner, “That wouldn’t be fair to you, now would it?”
As she said that, the princess climbed out of the bed and trotted to her bureau.

As the princess looked at herself in the mirror she sighed as she turned her head to look at her messed up mane, “Oh… if the kingdom saw me like this… it would be a horrible uprising to dethrone such a mess.”
Smiling at her joke, the captain used his magic to hand her a brush as he replied, “Most messes can be cleaned your majesty, but some, are perfect no matter how bad they get.”
The princess smiled at his words as she took her brush and started brushing her mane as she asked, “Is there anything on the schedule for today?”
The captain replied, “Actually, today your schedule is clear. Tomorrow you have a number of appointments to see to, but right now, you are free to do as you please.”
The princess hesitated for a second, then spoke, “It’s spring… Captain… have the cherry blossoms bloomed yet?”
The captain’s tone seemed to be less enthusiastic as he replied, “I sent a soldier to check this morning… he informed me that they are.”
Hearing is tone, the princess replied, “I see… would you mind if we were to go see them? Though its difficult for me to enjoy, I still love to see the cherry blossoms in bloom. It’s always so… soothing.”

With little change in his tone, Rainier nodded, “Of course your majesty… it would be my pleasure to escort you today.”
The princess finished brushing her mane as she laid the brush down and spoke cautiously, “Rainier… may I ask, why… do you dislike the spring?”
The soldier was confused, “What? What are yo-“
The princess turned to him, “I notice… that every year when we bring up the subject… you seem so… distant… unhappy even. Is… there something about it that you dislike?”
The princess stared at him with sincerity as he had a hard time replaying, “W-well… it’s um…”
“Is it because I burden you so?”
Reiner gave her a serious look, “No… it has nothing to do with you, specifically… it’s just… complicated… I uh…”
Seeing his difficulty, the princess replied, “If the reason is personal… then you don’t have to tell me… I was just concerned, and… I would like to help you through it if I could.”
The guard blushed at her offer as he replied, “I’m sorry your majesty… it’s a little too personal to be helped. But… I appreciate it all the same.”
She gave him a pleased smile as she replied, “Of course… what are friends for?”

After saying that, the princess trotted passed her guard as he mumbled quietly to himself, “Friend… sure I am.”
She paused, “Did you say something?”
He shook his head as he replied, “No your majesty… I didn’t say anything.”
The princess preceded to put on her crown as she spoke, “Since our schedule is clear, we should take the city route towards the orchards. I haven’t seen my subjects since I ordered the destruction of my mother’s statues. I would like to see how they are faring.”
The captain smiled, “Of course your majesty, I'll see that a carriage is prepared at once. Your subjects will be thrilled to see their princess amongst them. As they always are.”

Down in the city, Zeil was making his way through the streets as a royal guard stopped him, “You there… stop.”
Zeil paused as he replied, “Yes? Can I help you?”
The guard gave him a curious look as he spoke, “You’re a zebra right? We don’t see any of your kind here? What business do you have in Spring Haven?”
Zeil replied respectfully, “I’m just a traveler passing through. Once I resupply I'll be on my way.”
The guard gave him an untrusting look, “Really?... where are you going?”
Zeil replied without hesitation, “Equestria.”
“Where are you from?”
“The Kingdom of the Black Sand”
“How long have you been traveling?”
“Over three years.”
Hearing Zeil answer each question without hesitation convinced the guard that he wasn’t up to any misdeed as the guard nodded, “Alright… then be on your way. Just don’t cause any trouble.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “I won’t… thank you.”

With that the guards turned away and started trotting down the road as Zeil sighed, “Good thing that didn’t escalate… since Cunningham’s potions don’t work anymore, I’ll need to keep my anger in check.”
With that said, Zeil began making his way through the city as he looked at the scenery. This city was similar to Canterlot in many ways, only while Canterlot’s colors were themed around gold and white, this kingdom was centering its colors on pink, purple, and magenta, all colors of spring flowers, hence its name Spring Haven. As he continued through the city, he had a hard time understanding how the streets were laid out as he tried to locate the main shopping district. As he looked around he soon found himself in the right area, but he still had to pass through a few narrow alleys to arrive on the street he was looking for. While continuing though the alley, Zeil started feeling the aura of a following earth pony. At first he simply ignored it, but as he crossed through more alleys, the one became two, then three, then four. Finally as Zeil felt the fifth and final addition to the group he turned around and spoke to the group behind him, “Something tells me that you aren’t here to welcome me to the city… so you might want to explain yourself.”

The leader of the group stepped forward as he smiled, “Well, look at this checkerboard… been here less then a few hours and now sees himself as the king of the castle doesn’t he?”
The rest of the group chuckled before letting the lead stallion continue, “You found yourself a long way from home buddy… but don’t worry, if you give us whatever you got in that bag of yours, we can give you directions to a place where you belong… be that anywhere other than here.”
Zeil started to get angry, not for the threat, but because he knew that the insult the pony gave him was actually a racial slur to all zebra. Trying to keep himself calm, Zeil replied, “Say what you want… but I don’t intent on fighting any of you.”
The Stallion smiled, “Then you’ll handover the bag willingly?”
Zeil shook his head, “I didn’t say that… I just warned you that if you don’t back off… you might get hurt.”

The group of ponies laugh at Zeil as the leader spoke, “Well… I'd like to see you try… Checkerboard.”
As soon as that was said, Zeil darted forward without warning as he quickly closed the distance between him and the gang leader. With his actions too fast to react, zeil approached the lead pony and punched him as hard as he could as the unexpected attack threw the leader to the ground leaving the rest of his gang in stunned silence. After the assaulted pony hit the ground Zeil looked down at him as he smiled, “What’s wrong? Didn’t expect a zebra to punch so hard? Oh by the way… I’m lower than a zebra… I’m a changeling.”
With that said, Zeil changed his appearance into a changeling, only to add insult, he changed into his former parasitic changeling form as he smiled as looked through the holes in his cobalt hoof as he mumbled, “Didn’t know I could do this… not that I miss this form or anything.”
Angry, the bandit leader picked himself up from the ground as he wiped away the blood on his chin as he spoke, “Changeling… Zebra… either way… you’re dead. GET HIM!”
With that call, the gathered gang of ponies charged at Zeil as he quickly changed back into his zebra form and readied himself for a fight.

Moments ago, on the street not far from the alley, the princess sat in her open top carriage as her guards followed on hoof as her small caravan rolled casually down the street. With every citizen they passed, the subjects bowed in respect as the princess smiled peacefully at the curtesy of each subject. As they continued, Princess Blossom looked to Reiner who was trotting beside the carriage as she spoke, Captain… must you follow by hoof? As my protector… surely you are privileged enough to ride with me?”
Reiner smiled as he replied, “You humble me with your kindness your majesty, but if I’m not ready to react to any possible outcome, then what purpose would I have as your protector?”
The princess smiled at his loyalty, “If that is your decision then I shall respect it. As always… I feel safe so long as you are near.”

Back in the alley, Zeil watched as one of the charging ponies wielded an iron bar as he swung at Zeil horizontally as disguised changling ducked down under the bar before swinging upwards as he hit the attacking pony in his jaw leaving the armed pony to drop his weapon as the iron bar was thrown in the direction of his swing hitting the ground and then the wall leaving the metal on stone chime to echo down the alleyway. Back on the street, the echo of the metal bar could be heard by the passing carriage as Princess Blossom heard the sound and spoke, “Drivers please stop?”
The two stallions pulling the carriage stopped as Princess Blossom looked to the nearest alley as she spoke, “Captain? Did you hear that?”
Reiner nodded, “I did… Guards, on me…”

As Reiner started trotting towards the alley, Princess Blossom stepped out of her carriage as she spoke, “I’m going with you.”
Reiner shook his head, “It would be best if you stayed here your majesty. You would be much safer in the carriage.”
Princess Blossom shook her head as she replied, “I would be much safer by your side. After all, that sound could be a subject in need of assistance. Unlike my mother, I am always willing to help my subjects?”
Though he still objected to the decision, the loyal soldier nodded his head as he replied, “Then… at least stand behind me… I won’t be able to forgive myself if something goes wrong.”
Agreeing with the decision, the princess nodded as she followed Reiner into the alley to investigate the noise.

Back in the ally, the stunned pony fell to the ground as a second pony charged at Zeil and tried to punch his face. Seeing the attacker’s plan, Zeil raised his right hoof to block the attack however as he did he didn’t notice that the leader had already gotten back up as he charged at Zeil from behind as he wrapped his hooves around Zeil’s neck and pulled his head back leaving his guard to fail as the attacking pony punched Zeil on his face as the leader released him allowing Zeil to fall to the ground from the impact. Stunned and now wounded, Zeil started to pick himself up from the ground as the leader and his group trotted around him laughing at their accomplishment. Seeing that they won the lead pony spoke, “See that colts? Just what I'd expect from a checkerboard, or whatever he claims to be… Pick him up.”
With that instruction, the group of ponies picked up the stunned changeling and pinned him against the wall as the leader looked at him and smiled, “Still got something to say?”
Zeil looked at the pony in anger but as he opened his mouth to speak, the lead pony punched him in his gut and preventing him from speaking. Next the gang leader punched Zeil in his face two more times then let Zeil in his weaken state to let his head hang as the rest of the herd held him up as the leader spoke, “Well… I think it’s time to end this… but remember what I said… your dead.”

With his intentions clear, the lead pony trotted to the metal bar and picked the weapon up before trotting back to the pinned changeling. As the lead pony readied his swing he smiled, “Well this is just too ea-”
“YOU THERE! STOP!!!”
As that was said, the leader of the gang looked down the alley as he saw Captain Reiner, Princess Blossom and a number of guards standing there as he and the gang of muggers hesitated. Taking the opportunity, Zeil’s anger took hold as he jerked his shoulder forward as the pony holding that side of his body was pulled closer to his face. With one of his restraining ponies close enough, Zeil flung his head towards the surprised pony as he bashed his forehead against the muggers face causing him to release Zeil as the the less constricted changeling used his now free hoof to swing around and punch the other pony in his face as hard as he could.

With his hooves free, Zeil turned his attention to the armed leader in front of him as he preceded to plant his right hoof on the ground befor swing his body around kicking the lead pony in the side of his face with his hind hooves causing both the bandit and his weapon to fall to the ground. Seeing their boss down and the guards approaching, the remaining group of thugs decided to cut their losses as they fled down the alley as Reiner gave his guards an order, “After them! Don’t let them escape!”
With that order, the guards around him preceded to separate as some rushed to catch the fleeing muggers, leaving the rest to subdue the ponies who were stunned from Zeil’s attacks. As one guard tried to restrain Zeil, the princess spoke, “Release him… it’s obvious that he is the victim in all this.”
Doing as they were told the guard let go of Zeil as Princess Blossom smiled and spoke, “Are you alright?”
Still angry, Zeil replied as he wiped the blood from both his mouth and nose, “I’ve been better.”
Seeing that he was fine, the princess and Reiner approached the leader of the thieves as she looked down at her retrained subject and spoke, “What is the meaning of this?”

Ashamed, the thief held his silence as Reiner spoke, “A mugging gone wrong… and assault. That’s all we need to know.” he looked at his guards, “Take him away… a month in the dungeon is suitable for a thief like him.”
Princess Blossom spoke up, “Now now Captain, first let me speak with him.”
With that said, Princess Blossom approached the restrained pony as she looked down at the thief’s face. As she looked over her captive, Zeil realized something strange. The pony wasn’t holding his sadden expression out of anger, shame, or self-pity. His expression was one of nervous fear. Seeing this, the princess reached down and raised his chin so that she could look him in the eye, however as she touched his chin, the terrified stallion quickly turned his head away in a flinching gesture as if she were trying to strike him against his face. Seeing this the princess spoke, “Could it be… that my mother has punished you before?”
Clinching his eyes shut in fear, the nervous stallion continued to look away as the princess continued, “Tell me… what did she take from you?...”

The scared stallion continued to look away in fear as the princess replied too softly for Zeil to hear her clearly, “Slavery?... Torture?... Or… your family?”
With that said, the fearful stallion continued to look away as he opened his eyes signaling his answer as she nodded, “I see… So… she took too much then… didn’t she?”
The stallion still held his silence as the princess stood tall and spoke, “Captain Reiner?”
Reiner nodded, “Yes your majesty?”
The princess replied, “For his crimes, I hereby order this stallion’s punishment to be three days in the dungeon, without torture. And not a second more.”

Zeil spoke up in complete shock, “You’ve got to be kidding me?”
Reiner replied, “What was that?”
Zeil replied, “Seriously? He tried to kill me and all he gets is three measly days In a dungeon. You call that justice?”
Reiner started to speak but knowing his words would have been disrespectful, the princess interrupted, “Due to the circumstances, Three days is fair. Under my mother’s rule the punishment would have been more severe but I don’t intent to rule this kingdom like my mother before me.”
Zeil’s anger took hold as he replied, “So rather than show strength you show weakness? Maybe you should be more like your mother! Then your kingdom would have less crime attacking innocent travelers.”
Reiner became furious as he started towards Zeil, “You dare to commit treason before the Princess?”
Before Zeil could reply, Princess Blossom stopped him, “Reiner wait… It’s obvious, he is a stranger in this kingdom. So for the time being, I will overlook his ignorance… however.” She looked Zeil in the eye as she spoke with serious tone, “I may not be like my mother… but if you truly knew the type of mare she was… then neither of you would trot away from here with your lives.”

With nothing more to say on the subject, the princess turned away towards her carriage as she spoke, “Come Captain…” As the princess turned to go back to her carriage, Zeil felt a strong shift in her emotions that felt familiar as he spoke up, “Wait…”
Princess Blossom paused as she looked back at Zeil one last time, “If you still object that I’m not like my mother… then I'll respect your words, but note… that it’s only your opinion. I won’t be my mother… ever.”
As the princess looked back at Zeil, He could see a glint in her eye that confirmed her change in emotions as he could only nod, “Sure… But I stand by my opinion.”
The princess didn’t want to reply to his statement as she turned away and continued trotting to her carriage.

With the princess choosing to drop the subject, Reiner spoke before turning to the carriage, “Welcome to Spring Haven Mr. Zebra.”
With nothing more to say, the princess and her captain returned to their transportation as she stepped onto the carriage and spoke, “Drivers… let us return to the castle. Suddenly, I’m not in the mood to see the cherry blossoms.”
The two stallions connected to the carriage nodded as they started trotting down the road with Captain Reiner trotting beside the carriage as he always does. Zeil trotted alongside the guards that were hauling the captive stallion away until they were back in the main streets, However as he stepped out of the alley, Zeil became overwhelmed by the aura of anger and distain he was feeling from the surrounding ponies who not only witnessed the event in the alley, but actually heard the disrespect that Zeil had shown the princess.

Knowing that he wasn’t in good company, Zeil’s anger continued to act on its own as he yelled, “What?... got a problem?”
Worried that the stranger could be dangerous, the herd slowly disbanded as Zeil looked back to the departing carriage as he mumbled, “Let them talk… If I saw in her eyes was I think I saw… then this kingdom is in trouble. So… first thing is first, I need some ingredients for a spell. Then, I need to find who, or what is responsible.”
With that said Zeil trotted down the road as he made his way towards any shop that could carry what he needed. Sadly, as the day progressed, his luck didn’t improve as news of his confrontation with Princess Blossom seemed to had spread throughout the city. Because of this, Zeil found that every business he had gone to, to buy the ingredients he needed knew of him and refused to sell him anything. And not just magic shops, Grocery stores, markets, even restaurants refused to serve him. Dealing with this, Zeil was unable to attain anything that he had intended on getting when he arrived in the city, but with no map to determine the next closest city or even a way to attain a map, it was impossible for him to know if he would make it with his current supplies.

With all attempts at buying anything failing, the day soon turned to evening as Zeil decided it was time to find an inn to stay at, however this too seemed to be difficult as he was turned away from all of them. Finally he reached the very last inn in the city as he entered and approached the counter as the inn keeper looked at him and smiled, “Welcome t- oh…” His smiled faded, “You’re that Zebra everypony is talking about… right.”
Zeil started to reply but before he could, the inn keeper put his hoof up to silence him, “Sorry… no vacancy.”
Zeil sighed, “Seriously? The sign outside says you have rooms available. The earthpony replied, “We do… but not for those who disrespect the princess.”
Zeil asked, “Why?... give me a reason why you and everypony else in this city keep turning me away? Is it because I’m a zebra?”

The inn keeper gave him an annoyed look as he replied, “The fact that you don’t know the reason is insulting enough… Leave now!”
Annoyed Zeil turned to the door, however as he started to open it, an elderly stallion approached him as he spoke, “Don’t blame the kingdom for their rudeness sir. The wounds of our queen are still fresh in their eyes. Queen Rose, was a spiteful and evil creature who cared not for her subjects, but only for her own power. If you want to know more… go to the central plaza in front of the royal palace, and gaze upon the statue there.”
Knowing that he could be shunned for speaking to Zeil, the elder stepped away as Zeil nodded to the advice and left the inn.

Not long after leaving the establishment, Zeil found his way to the very plaza he was told about as Zeil entered the large empty area and saw the remains of a large demolished statue. Curious Zeil approached the statue’s remains as he looked closely at what remained. Since all above the statue’s ankles was destroyed, Zeil couldn’t tell what once stood immortalized in stone, but below it on the very pedestal that the figure stood was a large piece of plywood with writing as it read, “The tyranny of the Blood Rose is no-more. Long Live the Blossom of Spring Haven, and rest easy, the tyrant’s victims.”
Below that writing held the names of hundreds of ponies, all of which were written in different hoof-writing as if it were written by their family members. As Zeil looked at the long list of names he mumbled, “Blood Rose… fitting nickname for a tyrant. I guess it’s too late to take my statement back then.”
Zeil looked around the area he was in as he saw an empty alley nearby, “Well… since I can’t stay at an inn, I might as well set up camp outside.”

Up in the princess’s bedchambers, the princess approached her vanity mirror as she looked at her reflection and sighed. Thou she didn’t say it, Zeil’s words continued to echo in her mind as they rang, “So rather than show strength you show weakness? Maybe you should be more like your mother!”
Trying to clear her thoughts, the princess used her magic to remove her crown and sit it next to the mirror as she preceded to use a brush to brush her mane. Though she watched herself in the mirror while brushing, she occasionally shifted her eyes to her crown and back as she continued to think about his words. Finally she couldn’t take it anymore as she laid the brush on the shelf as she spoke, “Captain Rainier?”

The bodyguard who was standing at his post next to the door the whole time replied, “Yes your majesty?”
She tried to word her question properly, “I’ve been thinking… about that zebra we met today, and… I was wondering. Am… I mean… would I be a better ruler… if… I were like my moth-”
Reiner interrupted, “Permission to speak freely your majesty… even if it may disrespect the royal family?”
Princess Blossom nodded, “Granted.”
Reiner continued, “Your mother was a heartless tyrant. She killed her own subject’s families for petty crimes and abandoned her kingdom when the Eden’s Kiss catastrophe was fast approaching. She earned her nickname as the Bloody Rose, and for that we, her very subjects, despised and hated her. When she perished to her own health, this kingdom took a sigh of relief. The tyrant was dead, and whoever could take over the kingdom couldn’t possibly be as bad as she. And… you… you are the best pony to take her place. Not because you too are royalty but because you are everything your mother was not. She was a tyrant in disguise. You are a blessing. She abused her power to hurt her subjects, while you strive to better their lives. You’re nothing like her, and that’s why your subjects love you so.”

The princess smiled in relief as she replied, “I’m glade… I was worried that the Zebra was speaking truthfully when he said I was too weak to rule.”
“He is not from this kingdom and ignorant to the strife we have endured. You should not listen to the words of a peasant like hi-”
the princess interrupted him, “Do not use that word… that word is an insult commonly used by my mother, and I will not listen to such words to describe any subject, weather he be of my kingdom or another.”
Surprised by her outburst, the soldiers nodded, “Apologies your majesty, but you do understand the point I’m getting to don’t you?”
The princess gave an empty smile as she nodded, “I do… and I thank you for speaking honestly.”
Reiner nodded, “In my most honest opinion, you are a much stronger ruler then he knows, and even if your mercy seems weak, it takes great strength to right such a wrong that your mother left behind. That and… I will always be here to lend my strength and support.”

The princess smiled at his words as she nodded, “Thank you Reiner, with you I do feel safe.” She looked at a clock, “It seems to be getting late so I should retire for the night.”
Reiner nodded, “Then I should see to my nightly duties. Till the morning your majesty, pleasant dreams.”
As Reiner left the room, Princess Blossom smiled, “Yes… good night my pr… I mean… Captain.”
Not catching her slip-of-the-tongue, Captain Reiner left the room and closed the door behind him as the princess sat down on her bed in deep though, “Why… why was about to call him that… and… why did it seem so… natural?”
Confused, the princess tried to lay down to sleep. However with both this thought and her previous issue troubling her mind, she was unable to sleep as she climbed out of the bed and trotted out onto the balcony to get some fresh air.

As the troubled princess tried to think, Princess Blossom looked down to see her loyal captain directing night guards in the castle courtyard as she mumbled, “A blessing am I?... if he knew what I did… I doubt he would say such nice words about me.”
She put her hoof on her face on her face in irritation, “As hurtful as the zebra’s words are… he wasn’t wrong. But if I let myself lose sight again… then I may hurt sompo…”
Before she could finish her thought, Princess Blossom heard some words echo from within the city as they spoke, “YOU THERE!”
Curious, the princess looked into the closest plaza as she saw two of her royal guards as they approached a hanging tarp that was stretched out in an alley to make a small homemade shelter. As the princess watched in curiosity, she could see a figure emerge from the alley as the figure approached the royal guards and started speaking to them. Though she was too far to hear the conversation in the city, she still watched in curiosity until she finally was able to identify the figure as Zeil.

Seeing the zebra that was on her mind, Princess Blossom decided to get a better look as the royal unicorn used her magic to teleport herself into the city close enough to hear them, but still far enough to not get their attention. As she listened in from the nearby shadows, Zeil was replying to the guards, “I know… But there isn’t really anywhere else for me to go.”
The lead guard replied, “There are plenty of inn in the ci…”
Before he could finish, the second guard tapped his shoulder, “Hey Serge… it’s him… the zebra that everypony is talking about.”
The lead guard nodded, “Ah… I see… It’s you, the one who insulted the princess.”
Zeil continued on subject, “No inn will accept me, so I had no choice but to set up in this alley for the night.”
The guards nodded as the subordinate replied, “What did you expect? With the way you insulted the princess, I’m surprised the rest of the city didn’t run you out of the kingdom.”
The lead guard spoke again, “You got to have some serious problems saying what you said.”

Zeil sighed in irritation as he replied, “Granted, I may have spoken without knowing anything about the former queen. But I stand by my words. If a leader shows too much weakness then it’s likely that she will be walked all over by other rulers. Or even worse she would be played as a puppet princess for any other authority figures of this or any kingdom.”
The Princess thought to herself as she mumbled, “He’s… he’s right.”
The lead guard continued, “Silence… You were warned not to cause trouble, and what did you do? Brawling in alleys, threatening the princess, and now trespassing. The first two were pardoned by the princess, but this time, she isn’t here to protect you. You’re coming with us.”
Before the guards could do anything, Princess Blossom stepped out of the darkness as she spoke, “Stand down Sergeant.”

As soon as the guards realized she was there, the soldiers bowed in respect as the princess approached, “I can handle this… go see to your duties.”
The guards replied, “Yes your majesty!”
Following their orders, the two guards left the site as the princess looked to Zeil as she spoke, “My apologies… it would seem that there is no end to the trouble I keep bringing you.”
Zeil shook his head, “Actually this time… I’m grateful for your help.”
Before more could be said the princess spoke, “Was… was it true… your previous statement I mean?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… if you allow others to see your weakness, then it will bring problems your way.”

The princess shook her head, “I agree with that, but I’m talking about the other thing. The trouble with the residents of this city… is it true that no inn nor tavern will give you quarter in lieu of our previous discussion?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… that and no place will allow me to buy supplies, otherwise I wouldn’t be in this city right now, I would be on my way to the next.”
The princess replied, “Oh? Just passing through then?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, I’m on a journey to the kingdom of Equestria.”
The princess thought to herself, “I see… that is a long journey from here.”
Zeil replied, “That’s why I can’t waste any time.”

Princess Blossom nodded in agreement as she spoke, “Then… I must right my wrong.”
Zeil was confused, “Wh-what?”
Princess Blossom raised her head in a professional way as she spoke, “What is your name zebra?”
“Um, Zeil.”
She continued, “Well Mr. Zeil… permit me to give you quarter for the night. And… to apologies for today’s misunderstanding, I request your company in tomorrow’s tasks. I have a few errands that require my attendance tomorrow and with your company, the kingdom will see that you are not as bad as they assume and perhaps will allow you to purchase your supplies for your journey.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
The princes looked down in self-pity as she replied, “You see… I’ve been thinking about your words earlier, and… though I wish to lead my kingdom in other methods as my mother… I understand that if I continue to show weakness. Then your theory of invasion can become a possibility, so… if you join me, then perhaps you can give me some advice on getting over my, meekness.”

She looked at Zeil with hopeful eyes, “Would you please join me tomorrow? I promise to insure your supplies in exchange for your company and advice.”
As the princess gave him a hopeful gaze, Zeil was able to see clearly a small glint in her eyes that ensured his previous theory. Knowing this meant her emotions could be at risk, Zeil replied, “Of course, It will be interesting to see your kingdom from your point of view.”
The princess smiled with joy, “Wonderful, then it’s settled, I'll have my ca…”
“You’re Majesty!”
Princess Blossom and Zeil looked towards the castle gate as they saw Reiner rushing up as he spoke, “Your majesty? I came as soon as I was informed that you were in the city. Why did you come out here without an escort?”
The princess realized as she spoked, “Oh… captain… I was… well… I saw that Mr. Zeil here was in trouble, so I had to act. Forgive me for leaving the castle without informing you, but I felt I had to step in before the situation became complicated.”

Though Reiner was annoyed to see Zeil again, he still stayed on subject as he replied, “I understand, and applaud your willingness to help, despite… who he is. But you must careful in the future, I cannot protect you if you choose to leave the castle without telling anypony.”
With that Princess Blossom nodded as she replied, “Yes… my mistake. I will be cautions should the situation arise again. In the meantime, could I request to clear a room in the tower? It would seem that Mr. Zeil has had trouble finding quarter in any inn due to the confrontation we experienced this morning. So… I felt it was proper to offer him a room and presence during tomorrow’s events in exchange for his troubles.”
Though it was obvious that he objected her decision, Reiner kept his comments to himself as he replied, “I can have the quartermaster arrange him a place to stay, but for now, let’s return to the castle. The city streets can have its dangers in the vastness of night.”
The princess smiled, “Of course, then let us return.”

With that said, the three, accompanied by two other guards, started trotting back into the castle with very little to say. As they reached the door to the princess’s room, the loyal soldier spoke, “I will see to our guest’s arrangement. I shall report as soon as he is settled.”
The princess smiled, “Thank you Reiner, I know I can count on you to see to his comfort.” She looked at Zeil, “I will see you in the morning Mr. Zeil.”
Zeil smiled, “Thank you your majesty, I will see you then.”
The princess nodded as she stepped into her room and closed the door behind her. With the princess now out of sight Reiner looked to the escorting guards as he gave a nod that was obviously a signal. After the signal was made the two guards nodded in reply as they silently turned away and started trotting in the opposite direction as Reiner spoke, “This way Mr. Zeil… Your room is the south tower, don’t worry it isn’t a dungeon or anything.”

Zeil nodded as he gestured to the hall, “Then lead the way captain.”
As they trotted down the corridor Zeil decided to cut to the chase as he spoke, “So… what is it you want to talk to me about?”
The captain Gave him a suspicious look, “What?”
“Well you relieved your soldiers after the princess was out of sight, so it’s only expected that you have some sort of bone to pick with me.”
Reiner nodded as he replied, “Since you want to get right in to it… I have a request.”
Zeil nodded, “Good…cuz I have a few questions, so I'll hear your request if you answer my questions.”
Reiner replied with a distrusting tone, “Agreed, but you will hear my request first. That way if you turn it down, I won’t have already answered your questions.”
Impressed with how careful the Captain was, Zeil nodded, “Deal… so what’s your request?”

Reiner spoke with a tone that showed he was serious, “I didn’t hear the princess and your conversation about her tasks for tomorrow, but if you are joining her then I’d assume it was by her request?”
Zeil felt he could predict what the guards request was as he nodded, “It is.”
Reiner nodded, “Then here is my request… Go with her… but please… try to be supportive.”
Zeil was surprised, he assumed Reiner would ask him to refuse her request, but rather then showing his surprise, he only replied, “Really?... That’s your request?”
Reiner gave him an angry look, “Look, Its fine if you’re not the type to be nice to anypony, but all I’m asking is that you at least be nice to her. The princess… she’s broken.”
Zeil was confused, “Broken?”
Reiner nodded as his tone started to sound somewhat depressed, “Princess Blossom didn’t live as happily as other princesses. After the king died, her mother blamed her and sort of shut her out. Most of her young life was spent locked in the castle with almost no interaction with the citizens in this kingdom. That, along with the way the queen ruled, created a deep distrust in the crown. It’s because of this… I’ve tried all I can to rebuild the loyalty between the princess and her subjects. And with the queen gone… It will be easier to do so. But… only if she has the confidence to believe it’s possible.”

Zeil nodded, “Alright… I'll play nice… but answer me this. What happened to the king and queen?”
Reiner replied, “The king died in battle almost twenty years ago. Before that, the kingdom was a happy place. Then after, the queen sank into depression and anger, which she happily pressed onto the innocent citizens of her kingdom. Torture, slavery, She even punished petty crimes with execution, and… if she didn’t punish you at all… she punished your family instead.”
Hearing his tone getting more depressed, Zeil replied, “Is that what happened to you?”
Reiner shook his head, “That’s not important, fact of the matter is she was a real monster. The kingdom was grateful to be rid of her.”
Zeil asked, “How did she die?”
Reiner replied, “Tuberculosis. She gained it when she evacuated the city during the Eden’s Kiss catastrophe. She left the princess behind as she took a hoof full of guards and fled to the mountains.”
Like most kingdoms… we didn’t last against that thing that attacked. But once we returned, the queen did too, only she was sick and almost bed ridden. Doctors were forced to treat her for almost two years before she finally passed away just last month. Funny, I thought there would be a big celebration commemorating her death, but instead. There was only a quiet day where her subjects were too afraid to do anything.”
Zeil was curious, “Afraid? Of what?”

Reiner replied with an unenthusiastic tone, “The princess… everypony knew how spiteful and evil the queen was, but since the princess was locked away from her subjects, nopony knew if they were better off with the queen dead, or worse. Luckily the princess gained a little bit of trust when she ordered every statue of her mother to be destroyed to honor the victims of her tyranny. Unfortunately though, the princess is a little… skittish. Being looked down on by her mother has kept her confidence low, and I’ve noticed she’s been a little more depressed lately. I think that if she gets the chance to spend time with others, she will come out of her shell.”
Zeil nodded, “Alright… I'll see what I can do.”
Reiner smiled, “Good… any other questions?”
Zeil smiled, “Just one… when do you plan on telling her how you feel?”

Reiner and Zeil were approaching the room that Zeil was staying in as Reiner blushed slightly as he replied, “Wh-what?”
Zeil replied, “I’m not a zebra, I’m a changeling. And one thing we know more than any is the feeling of love in the air. And you… are in love my friend… Badly.”
Reiner replied with an annoyed tone, “First off, that’s none of your business… and second… a changeling? What are you doing in Spring Haven?”
Zeil replied with a careless tone, “I’m only passing through. Though it’s been hard since no place will sell me the supplies I need to continue my journey. Everypony knows my face so… none will sell me supplies since I spoke to the princess like I did this morning. So I’m stuck here till I can find out how to get what I need to continue.”
Reiner gave Zeil a confused look, but then disregarded whatever he was thinking as he continued, “Okay… well… that aside, will you at least try to be nice to the princess tomorrow?”

Zeil smiled at the request as he replied, “I already told you I will… despite how the conversation this morning ended, She did help me out, and any other nation probably would have locked me up even knowing that I didn’t start that fight. So I’ll be nice.”
Reiner nodded, “Thanks… ya know… you’re not such a bad guy after all.”
Zeil nodded, “I’m still on the fence about you, but for now… you’re not so bad yourself.”
Reiner smiled, “I’ll take that as a compliment, so… you heard my request, any more questions before I leave you?”
Zeil nodded, “Maybe later, I still need to know more about this kingdom if I want to understand how to support the princess.

Reiner nodded, “Sure, we can discuss more tomorrow. Though I must inform the princess that you are a changeling, if she knows the truth at least she will trust you a little more.”
Zeil nodded, “I understand. For now anyways, I’m going to turn in. it’s late and I’ve been wondering the city all day.”
Reiner nodded, “Sure… But one more thing before I leave you. You say, no sales pony would sell you supplies because they knew your face… so… if you’re a changeling… why didn’t you just change into somepony else?”
At that moment, Zeil’s smile which was natural, seemed to freeze on his face in an awkward state as he replied with an extremely annoyed tone, “I’m going to bed…”
With that said, Zeil held his weird smile as he turned to the door, entered the room and closed it behind him. As the door closed, Reiner mumbled to himself, “Did… did he actually forget he could do that?”
In the room, Zeil tapped his head against the canopy bed’s post as he mumbled, “Oh I’m such an idiot… but that aside…” He sat down on the bed, “I was right… The princess in this kingdom is under the effects of a cures. I can’t say who caused it just yet, so I can’t say anything till I know more. If the princess is the puppet, then I can’t let the puppeteer know I’m onto him. Weather it’s her knight in shining armor, or someone else.”

Bk5/Ch2 The Broken Princess

Book 5/Chapter 2
The Broken Princess
Year 03, Month 05, Day 13

Zeil stood alongside Reiner and a number of old veterans as the princess stood only a few feet in front of them as she gave a speech to her subjects. As Zeil stood in place, he felt a little awkward, so far the princess’s errands were all ceremonies. The first was an orphanage dedicated to the foals orphaned by the former queen. The second was a hospital meant for ponies suffering from post-traumatic stress from both the queen’s torture and the Eden’s Kiss catastrophe. And now Zeil was taking part in a statue reveal ceremony honoring veterans of the war that the previous king had perished in.

As he stood in line, he held his position as the princess continued announcing to her subjects, “Though the war claimed the life of my father, and led to the loss of land for our kingdom. We will still honor him and those who stood at his side. Their dedication, loyalty, and sacrifice wasn’t for the respect of our kingdom, but for the safety of our subjects and of the crown. Therefore, I dedicate this statue, to all soldiers. Past, Present, and future. For it is their dedication to this kingdom, that ensure a bright and prosperous future for us, our foals, and later our foals’ foals. And to honor the reveal of this statue, I present my father’s generals who fought at his side, in that bloody war all those years ago.”
Princess Blossom turned around and spoke to the soldiers standing beside Zeil, “Generals, you have sacrificed much for this kingdom, but please follow this last order. Reveal the monument!”

The soldiers saluted in return, before turning around and pulling the large sheet from over the statue as the white sheet fell revealing a large statue of three soldiers standing in specific poses, one was a pegasus with one front hoof raised inward and a determined look on his face, the second was an earth pony with all four hooves planted on the pedestal as if he were ready to charge, and the last standing between the two was a unicorn rearing up with both front hooves in the air as if to call the charge. Thought the statues didn’t resemble anypony specifically, their pose along with their meaning was known as the audience applauded the reveal.

With everypony applauding, Princess Blossom Looked back over her subjects as she spoke, “Thank you all for your attendance in honoring this great monument. This concludes this ceremony, you are free to stay for the reception that will take place here. However, I must take my leave. Thank you.”
With that the princess turned to leave the stage as the subjects bowed to her departure. As the princess started trotting by the ex-generals, each soldier bowed in respect to their ruler as Zeil too bowed to keep appearances before following Reiner in stepping out of the rank to escort Princess Blossom to her carriage. As the princess stepped onto the carriage, she looked over her subjects and waved. Zeil too stepped onto the carriage and sat beside the princess leaving Reiner to stand beside the carriage in his usual position as the two stallions pulling the regale transportation slowly started trotting as the carriage rolled out of the area and down the road.

As the carriage rolled slowly, Princess Blossom continued waving to her subjects until she could no longer see the large herd as she stopped and sighed, “Another ceremony down… Captain? What’s next on the agenda?”
Reiner smiled as he trotted alongside the carriage, “Actually your majesty, that’s the last on the list. It would seem that you are free for the rest of the afternoon.”
Princess Blossom looked into the distance as she saw a large clock tower over the surrounding buildings, “It’s barely passed one… Perhaps… We can go se-”
As Princess Blossom looked towards Reiner, she had to look over Zeil as she realized, “Oh… apologies Mr Zeil… I would suppose you would want to go gather your supplies at this time would you not?”
Noticing that she changed whatever was on her mind when she saw him, Zeil replied, “Don’t mind me your majesty, I can get my supplies whenever I have free time on my own. If there is something else you wish to do, then by all means do it.”

As the Princess smiled at his statement, Zeil could only think about what he had been doing since they left the castle this morning. Despite all the ceremonies, Zeil has been keeping his senses heightened as he tried to find out who had placed the curse on the princess. So far, she hasn’t shown signs of the curse through her own emotions, nor has anypony that they’ve encountered shown signs of casting any spell to increase or extend its effects on her. In fact, the only ponies that have had continuous contact with her were the two earth ponies pulling the carriage, the five guards that have been escorting her, and Reiner who has been with her every moment throughout the day. Either way, Zeil felt that if there was somepony pulling the strings that he or she would reveal themselves at least once, but so far there hasn’t been a single sign from her escorts or her subjects. With hope that he would soon find out who the spell caster was, Zeil smiled as the Princess returned his smile before replying, “Well, if it’s alright with you, then I suppose it’s alright to suggest it.”
Reiner asked, “Suggest what your majesty?”

Princess Blossom smiled as she spoke, “Reiner, would it be possible to see the cherry blossoms today. Since we have time, and we are already halfway towards the farmlands. Perhaps this is the best time?”
Reiner gave a fake smile that fooled everypony except Zeil as he replied, “I assumed you would suggest that, so I took the liberty of informing Miss Grove that we would visit today. She says the gates will be open and ready for your arrival.”
Princess Blossom smiled with glee as she replied, “Perfect, I look forward to it.” She looked at the carriage drivers, “Drivers, onward to Golden Cherry Ranch, please.”
The higher ranking driver smiled, “Of course your majesty, at once.”
Reiner looked at the escorting guards, “You five are relieved to return to the castle. The princess will be safe with myself and Mr Zeil.”
As the relived soldiers broke away from the caravan, Zeil could only give Reiner a curious look. His smile before seemed that he was pleased that the princess wanted to see the orchards, but his emotions seemed to hold a large amount of worry. However since the captain didn’t say anything on the subject, Zeil decided to keep a closer eye on him in hoped of finding something incriminating about his actions.

As they traveled, Reiner noticed Zeil’s silence as he decided to make small talk, “So, Mr. Zeil… How do you like our kingdom thus far? I hope your opinion has changed since yesterday’s misunderstanding.”
Zeil nodded, “Well my opinion is much better now. To see a princess that cares so much for her subjects is inspiring to say the least. It’s completely different from any royal I would know.”
The princess spoke with an overenthusiastic tone, “Your talking about your hive queen right?”
Surprised by her excitement, both Zeil and Reiner gave Princess Blossom a funny look as she realized the volume of her voice as she spoke with an embarrassed tone, “Oh… my apologies. I got excited for a second. When I was little, I took advantage of my free time by reading about other races and species. What I learned about changelings were that you’re a hive based species ruled by a queen, a lot like bees or ants.”
Zeil nodded, “That’s right, Similar, but there are many differences between bees, ants, and us.”

Proud of her knowledge, the princess continued, “True, you have the ability to change into any creature you choose and some of you feed on love, but I’m guessing you’re a reformed changeling correct?”
Zeil was confused, “What?... but… how did you kn…”
The princess smiled, “News has been traveling around that many reformed changelings are coming out of the shadows and forming alliances with other kingdoms.”
Zeil thought to himself as he mumbled, “I guess… there are more of us then I thought. I assumed that Shangri-La and I were the only ones.”
Reiner asked, “What was that?”
Zeil shook his head, “Nothing… it’s not important.” He looked at Princess Blossom as he replied to her previous statement, “Yes I am a reformed changeling, though we were in too few to be noticed.”

Princess Blossom smiled as she replied, “On the contrary, I’ve heard that there are two whole kingdoms of reformed changelings. I don’t recall where they are from, but that is the news I’ve heard on the subject. I also understand that aside from the queen there are two other types of changelings, so may I ask, which changeling type you are Mr. Zeil? A worker or a drone?”
Zeil replied with a modest tone, “I’m a drone.”
“Oohh like a prince?”
After hearing Princess Blossom refer to Zeil as a prince, Reiner gave Zeil a curious look as Zeil shook his head, “Not really, a hive can have a queen, a princess, and on occasion a king, but we don’t really acknowledge the term prince, since any drone in the hive can be chosen by the princess to become her king.”
Zeil could only smile when he heard Reiner sigh in relief, as the princess replied, “Oh… I see now. So who is your king and queen?”

Zeil’s smile faded as he replied, “I don’t have one… I guess you could call me an outcast. A changeling without a hive.”
Princess Blossom gave him a disappointed look, “Oh… I’m sorry, I didn’t know that was even possible.”
Zeil shook his head, “Don’t be… it was my choice to make. And I’m happy I made it.” He looked at the surroundings as he noticed they were leaving the city, “So… where are we going again? You said something about cherry blossoms?”
Princess Blossom smiled, “Yes I did, you see the kingdom of Spring Haven prided itself on its main export.”
Reiner nodded as he continued, “Cherries, and cherry based products. Spring Haven grows every living type of cherry and thanks to our skilled farmers, you won’t find any better tasting cherries then those grown right here.”

Zeil soon realized that they were entering a large cherry farm with trees of pink as far as the eye could see. As he looked over the vast orchard, he smiled, “I see, strange I didn’t quite notice them when I arrived in Spring Haven, I guess I wasn’t paying attention.”
As the carriage pulled up to the only building visible through the pink surroundings, the driver stopped as a mare exited the farm house as she bowed before speaking, “It’s a pleasure to see you again your majesty. To have you return to my little farm is always a treat.”
The princess exited the carriage as she smiled and replied to the welcome, “It’s nice to see you too Miss Grove, I hope I’m not intruding?”
The farmer smiled, “Not at all your majesty, Reiner was kind enough to let me know ahead of time so whenever ya’ll are ready, the orchards are yours to wonder freely.”
Princess Blossom smiled as she replied, “Thank you, if you have other matters to attend to, then feel free to do so. I only wish to observe the blossoms.”
The kind farmer bowed slightly, “I understand your majesty, if ya’ll need anythin’ then just holler and I’ll be here doin’ some chores.”

Princess Blossom nodded as she, Reiner, and Zeil left the carriage and started towards the main trail that lead through the orchard. Though they stayed a number of paces behind, Reiner and Zeil followed as the princess looked through the grove with joyful eyes. After a few minutes of trotting deeper into the cherry grove, a large gust of wind blew through the trees causing a rain of cherry blossom pedals to fall into their path as the princess saw the dancing pedals and started to spin around as if she were dancing with them. As the playful princess danced through the pedals, both Zeil and Reiner paused as they watched the beautiful princess dance amongst the breathtaking scenery. As they watched Zeil looked over at Reiner to see a somewhat captivated glance as if he were hypnotized by her beauty. As Zeil saw this expression, he was quickly reminded of his own expression a few years ago, when he saw Zecora standing amongst the dancing fireflies. Remembering this only made the disguised changeling long for completing his journy all the more. Trying to not think about it, Zeil looked back to the dancing princess as the cyan mare realized she was dancing alone as she looked to Reiner and smiled, “Captain? Why not come dance with me? If anything it may help you forget why you dislike the spring.”

Acting somewhat bashful, Reiner waved his hoof dismissively, “Far be it for me to ruin your beautiful dancing with my four left hooves.”
The princess smiled, “Nonsense, even if your dancing is poor, what princess dances without her prin-“
As the princess started to say the last word of her sentence, something strange happened. Her expression of playful joy faded, and her actions ceased as she stopped talking and slowly started leaning to her side as Reiner rushed to her while calling, “BLOSSOM!”
Moving fast enough, Reiner was able to catch the falling princess before she hit the ground as he mumbled in irritation, “Not again… MEDIC!!!”
Hearing the call from the carriage, one of the drivers detached himself from the transport as he rushed towards the site as fast as he could. As soon as Zeil realized what was happening, he immediately started using his changeling senses to scan around him for the aura of everypony in the area. However as far as he could scan, Zeil was only able to sense the aura of Princess Blossom, Reiner, the two earthpony guards pulling the carriage and the unicorn cherry farmer who was back at the farm house.

After sensing that there were no others in the area, Zeil rushed to the princess’s side as the carriage drivers arrived and started looking over the princess. As soon as the driver saw her, he spoke, “Again… I was hoping she’d be over this by now.”
Reiner nodded, “Same here, but that’s why I assigned you as driver since you are medically trained… So… what’s her condition?”
The medic checked the princess’s vitals as he replied, “She’s stable… just like the last time, she’s only lost consciousness, but she doesn’t seem to be in any critical condition or pain. No wounds, no sign of spastic movement. Best we can do is get her back to the castle and into bed. If it’s anything like last time, she will wake up in a few hours.”
“Last Time?”
At that moment the two soldiers remembered Zeil was there as Reiner replied, “I’ll explain later, for now let’s just get here back to the castle.”

Reiner laid the princess gently on the ground as he used his magic to carefully pick her back up as he took Princess Blossom back to the carriage. As soon as the three returned to the carriage, both the driver and cherry farmer were waiting as the driver spoke, “Is she alright?”
The medic nodded as he approached the carriage and connected himself beside the driver, “She’s fine, just a repeat of last time.”
Reiner spoke next as he laid the princess on the carriage, “We will return to the castle and get her in bed, that’s all we can do for her now.”
As Zeil climbed onto the carriage with the unconscious princess, the cherry farmer approached Reiner as she spoke, “Did something happen?”
Reiner replied, “Its fine, the princess had another episode. We will return to the castle and hopefully she will be alright in a few hours.”
The farmer nodded, “Alright… just… stay with her Reiner, she needs you now more then ever.”
Reiner nodded as he smiled, “I understand… I won’t let anything happen to her.”

With that said Reiner climbed onto the carriage and held the princess steady as he spoke, “Back to the castle, double time!”
The drivers nodded as they turned the carriage around and pulled the carriage as quickly and as carefully as they could back to the castle. Nothing was really said on the ride back more or less, because Zeil was trying to peace together what happened. He did feel a slight spike in the princess’s emotions before she passed out, but he couldn’t tell if it was the curse that caused it, or something else. And considering that the only ponies that were present was Reiner, the two earthpony guards, and a unicorn mare who was too far from the scene for any spell to reach, made it impossible to predict exactly where the spell, if any actually came from. All Zeil could do was guess, and with everypony present seeming so calm about the whole situation, It was impossible to choose who was responsible. Although there was one thing out of place, though the other guards had a slight aura of worry in their emotions, Reiner felt guilt instead.

As soon as they arrived back at the castle, Zeil and the two drivers helped open doors as Reiner used his magic to carefully bring the princess into her bedchambers. As Reiner laid the motionless princess in her bed, he covered her up as he pulled up a chair and sat beside her as a civilian doctor entered the room and started examining the patient. A few minutes later the doctor stopped examining as he spoke, “Looks like her condition is the same as last time. If memory serves correctly, she should wake within a few hours or so.”
Reiner nodded, “Thanks doc… as always it’s appreciated.”
The doctor nodded as he left the room and passed Zeil who was standing at the doorway. When Reiner noticed Zeil was still there he spoke, “Oh Mr. Zeil… if you need to get the supplies for your journey you can do so now. I’m… going to stay here with the princess.”
Zeil nodded but replied, with a serious tone, “Sure… I’ll do that… but if I do… you’re coming with me.”

Confused by Zeil’s serious tone, Reiner replied, “Excuse me?”
Zeil replied, “You owe me an explanation after all. And I don’t intend on going anywhere till I hear the full story on what happened out there.”
At first, Reiner was going to just brush him off and say no, but as Reiner looked at Zeil’s serious expression, he started to feel something telling him that it was a good idea for him to know the truth. So instead of dismissing Zeil, he replied, “Sure… I guess I do owe you for behaving yourself today. I’ll tell you the full story, but not in the castle… let’s wait till we are in the city first, There are some things best discussed without any of my guards around.”
Zeil nodded as he stepped to the side allowing Reiner to pass him as the royal guard captain led the way out of the castle, with not a single word said.

As the duo trotted through the city, it was a while before Zeil finally broke the silence as he pointed to a potions store and spoke, “There, I need to stop here first for some ingredients.”
Nodding at his request, Reiner followed as he and Zeil trotted into the shop. As they looked through the shelves and shelves of exotic herbs, powders, and ingredients from the furthest reaches of the world, Reiner was curious, “So… what is it you need here?”
Zeil picked up a few items from a shelf as he replied, oh just a few things for my journey… let’s see… Zap apple sap, living moss… and… ah here it is.” He pulled one last jar from the shelf, “Moon weed… and it still alive too.”
Reiner was curious, “What exactly would a changeling use potions for?”
Zeil smiled, “You’d be surprised… sometimes it’s for defense and other time to ward away darkness.”
That said, Zeil proceeded to purchase the collected ingredients before leaving the store.

Once the two were back in the streets and traveling further into the market, Zeil decided to get to the point, “So… The princess in unconscious, Care to explain why?”
Reiner sighed in disappointment as he replied, “It’s PTSD… and… it’s my fault.”
Zeil was confused, “Post traumatic stress disorder? Exactly what happened to her?”
Reiner sighed as he replied, “I failed her… She relied on my protection and I let her down.”
Zeil gave him an annoyed look, “Care to tell me or are you just going to speak in code all day.”
Reiner gave a bracing sigh before continuing, “You see… when the king died, the princess wasn’t even born yet, so a month later when she finally arrived, she was despised by the queen. The queen blamed her for her husband’s death because it was her pregnancy that prevented her from fighting alongside the king in the war. That’s why the princess was mistreated and shut away from the rest of the kingdom. Because of that, many believed that the princess’s very existence was either a hoax or just some rumor spread by bored scullery maids. As for myself, I didn’t even know she existed.”

Reiner saw a bench and sat down as he continued, “My father… owned the largest cherry grove in the kingdom. So one spring, the queen decided to see how her main export was progressing in person, and for the first time she decided to bring the princess with her… unannounced. Since the kingdom knew about how merciless the queen had become since the king’s death, my father told me to avoid the queen during her visit, so I decided to go into the orchards and play. Sometime during the queen’s visit, the princess managed to sneak away from her guards and venture into the cherry grove alone. And that’s where I met her.”
Feeling Reiner’s emotions, Zeil smiled, “Love at first sight?”
Reiner nodded, “I never met a filly so innocent and beautiful. She was dancing through the groves exactly as she did earlier today. Seeing her dance amongst those falling pink petals… I just had to speak to her. Naturally I introduced myself as Reiner Grove, Farmer Grove’s son. But when she introduced herself as Princess Blossom, I simply played along. I didn’t know there was a princess, so I assumed she just called herself a princess since… well… what father hasn’t called their little filly princess at least once.”

Zeil chuckled at the irony, “So, you didn’t even know who she was?”
Reiner nodded with a smile, “Would it have made a difference? I was in love, and that’s all that mattered to me. Anyways, because she called herself princess, I told her to call me Prince Reiner. She giggled at that… but didn’t bother explaining that she was a real princess, she just played along. From there we just started playing in the cherry orchards. Everything from, Hide and seek, tag, we played out there for hours, then… I decided to show her my favorite place in the entire grove. In the very back corner of the property was a very tall tart cherry tree. These trees can grow to be amazingly tall, and this one towered over all the trees in our orchard. So when you climb into this particular tree you can look out over the entire Grove, and at this time of day, with the sun now nearing dusk, the view was always beautiful to behold. So… I decided to take her there and to tell her that I wanted to see her again… granted this was still before I knew who she was. Well, when we got to the tree and started climbing, we got about half way up which was easily seven to ten feet, when she stopped. She said she was afraid to go any higher so I offered my hoof. I told her, as long as she was by my side, I would never let my princess fall.”

Zeil smiled at the line, “You really were in love. Weren’t you?”
Reiner nodded his head, “I truly was. And I was serious about that too, not just about then and there, but now. When she heard that, she smiled, took my hoof, and together we climbed till we reached the top of the tree side by side. And there, with her hoof in mine, we watched the beautiful twilight reflect off the countless cherry trees that emitted a glow of pink and red as if we were watching a beautiful flame stretch over the landscape.
Zeil have Reiner a funny look, “A beautiful flame?”
Reiner smiled, “You know what I mean, a sight that was just… too mesmerizing for words.”

Reiner tried to hold a pleasant expression, but it didn’t stay as he continued, “But then… I got too caught up in the moment, I felt her hoof slip out of mine, and… realized the branch she was standing in gave way. Out of reflex I dove from the tree to try and catch her, but it was no use. She had fallen too far, and now, we both were falling. From twenty feet in the air, I landed in my side breaking a few ribs, but she landed on her shoulder leaving her head to hit a small stone in the ground. I was dazed from the fall, but when I realized what happened, I picked myself up and staggered to her to see if she was alright. When I saw she wasn’t moving and the blood tricking down from the wound left by the stone, I panicked. I picked her up and tried everything I could think to wake her, shaking, yelling, I screamed as loud as I could trying to wake her up but… nothing worked. I was so scared and so guilty by letting her fall that… all I could do was cry as loud as I could. Too focused on her, I didn’t notice that the royal guard had heard my screams. As he rushed up, he thought I was the one that hurt the princess so when he approached he punched me in my face so hard that it threw me off her and across the area. The punch caught me off guard, and it hurt, but I was too worried about Blossom to care. I picked myself up to get back to her, but by this time, more guards arrived in the site as one tackled me and held me to the ground leaving another to point a spear at me.”

Feeling a tear roll down his cheek, Reiner wiped it away as he continued, “From the ground I watched as the guards surrounded the princess to check her. One said she was unconscious but severally concussed. That made me feel a little relieved but it didn’t help calm me down one bit. Then the queen stepped into the site followed closely but my parents. As soon as the queen saw the princess she demanded an explanation. The guard that punched me said that he followed the screams and found me holding her, he said I must have hurt her in some way. Immediately I denied it, I told her we were playing in the tree and the branch broke causing us to fall. I was only worried for her life. The queen took one look at me and replied with only two words. Execute him.”

Reiner sighed at the painful memory as he continued, “They picked me up and held me in place so that the guard with the spear could carry out his order, but my father stepped in. He said that I wasn’t a bad foal and I would never deliberately harm anypony for any reason, so killing me was unessisary. I’ll never forget what happened next. The queen smiled as she approached my father and said word for word, the foal used peer pressure to lure the ignorant princess into a situation which threatened her life. There for, his actions are no different from a cleaver assassin luring an ignorant royal to her death. Or do you deny this fact. My father nodded as he replied, he was just a foal playing with a friend, his actions were in no way sinister, nor do they deserve death as punishment. The queen continued, so you justify his actions? My father nodded and the queen replied, then you are to blame. At that moment, the queen with her own hoof, drew a dagger that was hidden in her royal robes as she plunged it into my father’s chest. Then, she pulled the blade back and spoke, the punishment has been served, release the foal to his mother. The guard then let me go as I immediately ran to my mother and hid behind her in fear. The queen gave her now blood soaked dagger to her guard as she spoke, take the princess back to the castle and have a doctor see to her wounds. We are done here. As for the body, he belongs to us now.”

Reiner rubbed his head to calm himself down as he continued, “When the guards picked up the princess I had to ask, would she be alright, but the queen paused and gave me a suspicious look as if she believed for a few seconds that I actually was trying to hurt her. But after the brief pause she told me that a peasant like myself has no business to be concerned with any of royal blood, and that I should stay in the ditch where I belong. From there, the queen left our farm and took my father’s body as a prize. They strung him up in the plaza as a warning to any who would threaten the crown, all to continue holding the kingdom in fear like she wanted. He… never had a burial, or at least not one that my family knew of. They marked him as a traitor to the kingdom and forever disgraced my family name.”
Zeil could feel the sadness in Reiner’s emotions as he replied, “Sorry… I didn’t mean to stir up bad memories.”

Reiner shook his head, “Its fine… afterwards, the accident left the princess in a deep coma that lasted about three months. When she finally woke up, the queen decided to open the castle doors so that her subjects could see that she was fine. But when I went with my mother to see her, she… She completely forgot about me, in fact she didn’t remember anything from that day. No trip, no farm… no friend.”
Zeil nodded as he thought to himself, “Amnesia probably… an accident resulting in a head wound would cause memory loss. Although I hear often that it’s only temporary.”
Reiner nodded, “It’s supposed to be but I’ve only seen a few glimpses of her memories returning. For example, she loves spring and cherry blossoms, and on occasion I’ve caught her as she started calling me prince, but she's always stopped herself before she did. In fact her episode today was one of those times. Come to think of it every time she's passed out was the same situation. She was in the cherry grove… that’s why… I don’t like the spring anymore. It reminds me of… how I failed her.”

Zeil thought to himself, “So that cherry farmer… she was?”
Reiner nodded, “That’s my mother, yes… she went through hard times after dad died, and we lost quite a bit of our land as a result, but we managed to stay afloat. Further more she knows of my feelings and supports me… even if she still blames the crown for father’s death, she is willing to look passed it in hopes that I can help her save this kingdom from its past.”
Zeil nodded, “I see.”
After that, nothing more was said as Zeil tried to piece together the information he just received. Realizing the silence, Reiner stood up from the bench as he spoke, “Well enough about that… it was good to talk about it, but it’s all in the past… what’s done is done, the queen is gone and now both of us will have time to heal, the princess and myself.”
Zeil asked, “So how did you become her personal guard so quickly? Given your family’s reputation, I bet it was difficult to get where you are now.”

Reiner smiled as he shook his head, “Not quite, I joined the guard as soon as I could and climbed up the ranks just like any other soldier. Funny, the queen executed so many, that none of my superiors recognized my name, even the queen forgot about me when I was assigned to the castle guard. I was already on station there when the Eden's Kiss catastrophe happened, but all higher ranks above me were taken by the queen to guard her during her escape. So, I took command of the guards and stayed by the princess’s side during the attack. Naturally I died standing between the dark alicorn and the princess, and for that I gained her trust, so when the queen returned and was bed ridden by illness, the princess as acting name to the crown, gave me a royal promotion and assigned me as her personal guard and captain of the castle guards. So… here I am. Doing whatever I can to protect the princess. Even when… her biggest threat is within her.”

Although Zeil knew what he meant, he still felt that there might have been some hidden message in his phrase as Zeil replied with a supportive tone, “I guess… we two are alike in that sense.”
Reiner was confused, “What do you mean?”
Zeil stood up from the bench as he replied, “We are in love with ponies from another world as our own. You a guard and a princess, and me… a changeling and a zebra. Then again, you’re a lot more like another unicorn I know. He was a royal guard captain too, far off in Equestria.”
“Really? How did it go for him?”
Zeil smiled as he started trotting on the way to their next destination. With Reiner following Zeil replied, “Oh not so bad, he married the princess, we invaded his wedding. I got my wing ripped off, he hunted me down and tried to kill me then his little sister banished me to the furthest corner of the world. All in all I think he lived happily ever after.”

Reiner gave him a surprised look as he replied, “Oh… um… wow… you get around don’t you?”
Zeil chuckled at Reiner’s reaction as he replied, “Well, let’s just say we weren’t necessarily friends. It was back when I was the type of changeling who only followed what his queen said. But once I learned to think for myself, I changed. Both figurative, and literally.”
Reiner nodded, “So… are you two friends now?”
Zeil’s pace slowed for a second then picked back up as he replied, “Not in the least.”
Hearing a lot of anger in Zeil’s voice, Reiner decided to drop the subject as the two arrived at the next store.

As they entered, Zeil looked through the supplies for sale as he noticed a small bookshelf with a number of books on the side. Looking through the shelf, Zeil picked up one particular book that was titled, Spring Haven Royalty: Royal Lineage and law. As Zeil started flipping through the pages, Reiner saw the book and asked, “Interested in our royal history?”
Zeil nodded, “It may give me a good idea as to what this kingdom has been through.”
Reiner shook his head, “If you wanted to know more about the Queen, your pressing your luck. The queen ordered her reign to not be recorded in history books due to her… controversial methods. In fact she ordered that the only thing about her lineage was that she ruled with grace and dignity even after becoming a widow.”
Zeil gave Reiner a curious look, “And this was carried out?”
Reiner shrugged his shoulders, “Till her death most likely, History may be written by the victors, but after they perish, its fair game.”
Zeil smiled as he closed the book and carried it with him, “How did she perish again… pneumonia?”
Reiner replied, “No tuberculosis.”
Not-surprised he passed his test, Zeil nodded, “Ah that’s right… And… this was confirmed by the doctor?”
Reiner felt suspicious as he nodded, “Yea… why?”
Zeil picked up a few other items as he replied, “Well… For one as hated by so many… it’s surprising that she wasn’t assassinated.”

Zeil could feel Reiner’s emotions becoming uneasy as the royal guard replied, “No, many tried to assassinate her, but she always made an example of them by hanging their body out on display… she did it to my father… and countless others.”
Knowing he went too far, Zeil replied, “Sorry… I would just thought, many would at least try to dethrone her by force.”
Reiner replied with a serious tone, “They did, and they suffered for it. If it wasn’t brutal torture then it was public beheading. Not to mention any guard living near the assassin’s home was also punished for not seeing the suspicious activity. It only filled her fear driven soldiers to put down all attempts before they could be made. Further spreading her grip of fear on her subjects.”
Zeil nodded, “So a doctor did confirm it? Tuberculosis?”
Reiner became irritated as he replied, “Yes it was confirmed… The queen died in her sleep by her illness.”

Reiner’s building anger wasn’t convincing, but Zeil decided to drop the subject as he replied, “Alright, I just wanted to make sure, that way if there was foul play I could feel content knowing that the princess was safe.”
Reiner asked, “Why would there be foul play?”
Zeil replied, “I just find it hard to think that going to a cherry grove is enough to cause anypony to pass out.”
Reiner felt skeptic as the two approached the checkout counter with the supplies, “What’s that supposed to mean?”
Zeil smiled convincingly, “Don’t worry about it… as a changeling I’m just a little jumpy that’s all. Not everypony welcomes my kind with arms wide open. I suppose you’d have to know what I’ve been through to understand.”
Reiner smiled in curious manner, “I have time.”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “Well, then I’ll start from where I started. The day I attacked Canterlot under the direct order of Queen Chrysalis.”
With that, Zeil started explaining his journey while leaving out certain points, as he and his new companion continued through purchasing the supplies that he needed to finish the story he was currently telling.

Hours later after dark, Reiner was sitting in Princess Blossom’s bedchambers as the princess finally woke from her unconscious state as she rubbed her head and spoke, “Wha… What happened?”
Seeing that she was awake, Reiner stood up and approached as he spoke, “Princess Blossom? Take it easy? Are you alright?”
The exhausted princess sat up as she continued, “I am… Where?...”
Reiner answered before she could finish, “We are back in the castle your majesty. Mr. Zeil and I brought you here after you passed out in the cherry groves.”
Princes Blossom looked down as she tried to remember, “The cherry groves… I passed out there? But… how?”
Reiner replied, “I know this seems off, but this isn’t the first time. And every time you usually have a slight bit of memory loss, but it will come back to you in a few minutes. In the meantime, you should get your rest. And if you have any questions feel free to ask.”

Princess Blossom rubbed her head, “I don’t… I’m fine… You say… Mr. Zeil?”
Reiner nodded, “Yes, the changeling we’ve been entertaining. He helped me bring you back.”
Princess Blossom nodded, “Yes… I’m starting to remember him now… I didn’t burden him… did I?”
Reiner shook his head, “Not at all your majesty, I explained what happened and the reasoning behind it shortly after.”
Unsure Princess Blossom asked, “What… exactly did you tell him?”
Reiner carefully replied, “I told him about your accident when you were young, just as it was explained to me.”
Princess Blossom gave him a curious look, “And that is?”
Knowing she was trying to dig deeper into the subject, Reiner replied, “When you were a filly, you and your mother traveled to a cherry orchard where you fell out of a tree.”
Princess Blossom asked, “And is that all?”

Reiner felt a little depressed that he was covering most of the truth, but since this was how the queen had always told it to her, he continued, “Yes… that’s what I was told at least..”
Princess Blossom felt disappointed as she replied, “I see… My mother explained it to me the same way… but… I often feel as if she was hiding something from me. But… I suppose if she was, it’s lost to time now. Even now, after all these years, I cannot remember anything of that day. I can’t even remember arriving at the cherry grove, let alone the accident that nearly claimed my life.”
Seeing the unhappy look on Princess Blossom’s face, Reiner decided to change the subject, “Either way, your condition was the same as last, so after we returned you to the castle, I decided to escort Mr. Zeil through the city while he proceeded to purchase the supplies for his journey.”
Princess Blossom nodded as she gave him a serious look, “Do you know the total cost of his supplies? I would like to reimburse him for this afternoon’s accident. He is our guest, he shouldn’t have had to be burdened by my weakness.”

Reiner gave her a sympathetic look, “Princess Blossom… what happened today is no weakness. Nopony could have predicted your accident, let alone the long term effects from such a tragedy. If anything… it’s my fault for allowing such a situation to take place.”
Hearing his words made her feel better as Princess Blossom replied, “Do not be so hard on yourself, both you and I assumed I was over this already. Otherwise I would have waited for a better time than today to go to the orchards. Then that would have spared us the burden of today.”
Reiner nodded in disappointment, “Yes… today…” He sighed, “I’ll be sure to pay back Mr Zeil for his supplies. Other than the potion ingredients he purchased, most of them were rather cheap.”
Princess Blossom was curious, “Potions?”
Reiner smiled, “Yes, In fact while we were in the city, Mr. Zeil told me quite a bit about himself. He is actually an enchanter of sorts. He learned to do so while training under a zebra that he is in love with.”

Princess Blossom thought to herself as she replied, “An enchanting changeling… such an interesting world we live in. I’ve always wanted to learn potion making. But mother had those books removed from the royal library when I was little. She claimed potions to be a lower form of magic. Far beneath the likes of a royal unicorn. What sort of ingredients did he purchase?”
Reiner replied, “Not sure what they do, but they were simple things that we see all the time, moss, tree sap, the most expensive thing he bought was a segment of a moon weed.”
As soon as that was heard, Princess Blossom gave him a concerned look, “M-moon weed?”

Surprised by her reaction, Reiner nodded, “Yes… he purchased a small piece of moon weed.”
The nervous princess spoke, “Why?... Why did he buy that particular pois- I mean… item?”
Reiner replied in confusion, “He… said he needed it for a repel potion. Something about repelling darkness.”
Princess Blossom thought to herself as she asked, “Reiner… did he ask questions about mother… did the subject even arise?”
Reiner nodded, “Actually, yes. He had a question about her death.”
Princess Blossom asked with worry, “And? What did you tell him?”
Reiner replied, “She died of tuberculosis.”
Princess Blossom continued, “Is that all you told him? How did he react? Did he question it any further?”
Reiner became suspicious, “No… your majesty? Are you… aright?”

Thinking her actions were somewhat suspicious, Princess Blossom quickly looked away as she replied, “N-no… I-I mean yes I… I’m fine… just a little… light headed from today.”
Although he knew she was hiding something Reiner knew it was her business as he replied, “Then I will take my leave so you can rest.” He stood up, “I will go inform Mr. Zeil tha-“
“NO!”
Reiner paused at the princess’s outburst as Princess Blossom sighed to calm herself before replying, “We shall speak with him in the morning… its late and I don’t want to disturb him. However…” The princess looked down as she replied with an unsure tone, “Have… a guard posted outside his room. If he decides to wonder the castle grounds, he must do so under close escort. He may be a guest… but he is still a stranger to this kingdom.”
Reiner felt confused, though he was completely loyal to the princess, he felt a strange presence in her tone that he had never felt in her before. In fact her tone seemed more hostile then careful. But since he was loyal to a fault, Reiner replied, “I understand your majesty, I’ll have a guard posted at once.”

Still standing, Reiner trotted to the door as he poked his head out to relay the order to a guard standing watch in the corridor. As Reiner gave his order, Princess Blossom mumbled to herself, “Could Zeil know the truth, and in this short time? How?... I must be careful, If he knows then he could tell the kingdom, and destroy the trust I’ve built with my subjects. Or worse… he could use it in the same way he warned me about earlier… he could use me as a puppet royal. I must deal with him carefully, for the second time in my life, I may have to act like… my mother.”
Finishing his instruction to the guard in the hall, Reiner turned back to Princess Blossom as he spoke, “Well since I see that you are well enough to sit up, I will take my leave and allow you to get rest. In the meantime a guard is on the way to watch Mr. Zeil, so is there anything else you need before I leave you for the night?

Princess Blossom hesitated as she spoke, “No… I believe I’m now content… but… Captain? Could…” She hesitated, and gave a bracing sigh before replying, “Could you… stay with me… at least… at least till I fall asleep. I… I don’t want to be alone right now.”
Although it seemed to be an odd request, Reiner had heard it before as he smiled before closing the door to the room and standing guard on the inside of the room, “I understand your majesty… I’ll stay as long as you need.”
Princess Blossom smiled sincerely at her loyal guard as she replied, “Thank you Reiner, I know I can always count on you.”
Reiner bowed his head slightly as he replied, “As long as I’m by your side, I will never let you fall.” He continued under his breath. “Not again…”
Not hearing the last part, Princess blossom nodded, “Well… Goodnight captain.”
With that, the tired princess used her magic to turn out the lights as she rolled over and tried to go to sleep as Reiner replied, “Good Night… Blossom.”

Down the hall in Zeil’s room, Zeil sat reading the royal law book that he purchased earlier as he occasionally looked away to the boiling cauldron that sat over the bedroom fireplace. As he read, he mumbled, “Royal line of succession, usurp laws, and coronations. Hmm… interesting.”
As Zeil read further into the page, he felt the aura of the royal guard that approached the outside of his door and took post there. Although the guards didn’t do or say anything to make himself known, Zeil knew why he was there as he looked to the door and mumbled, “I guess I may have hit a nerve with our discussion today. Funny, Reiner doesn’t seem the sort to be this careful. Then again, this could be the princess’s doing.”
Zeil looked back down at the book as he finished the sentence he was reading, “Then, by law of decree, the new heir will usurp the throne and take place as King or Queen despite the ruling of the reining monarch.”

Seeing all he needed to figure it out, Zeil closed the book as he mumbled, “So… that’s our puppeteer. I wasn’t expecting this… but that doesn’t change what I must do.” He looked at the boiling potion, “It should be finished in about two hours, but with the guard outside, I can’t do anything tonight. I’ll have to wait till morning. But even then, it’s going to be hard to do since the princess’s emotions are more unstable then I originally assumed. Especially if she has been under the spell for this long, there is no telling how she will react when I confront her. Either way, I have to do this… I have to cure her of this curse and save this kingdom before it becomes another Marble Oasis. I just hope I can do it, without becoming enemy of the state.”

Bk6/Ch1 The Mage of Zebrica

Book 6/Chapter 1
The Mage of Zebrica

Year 04, Month 01, Day 05

Zeil, with the hood on his cloak down and a peaceful smile on his face, followed the long empty road as it curved over tall grassy hills that seemed to stretch for miles. As he continued, he couldn’t help but feel at peace as the partly cloudy sky made the late autumn day feel calm as Zeil reached the top of the hill before looking far into the distance. Barely at the end of the horizon, Zeil could see the road he was traveling on enter an amazingly tall thick forest as he took the time to enjoy the vastness of the small hilly grasslands. As he looked around something caught his eye as Zeil looked down right next to the road to see a very small statue sitting on the side of the road. The statue was less than a foot tall but the small totem seemed to resemble a very fat but simple looking griffin as Zeil smiled at the small roadside guardian. Knowing that these statues were made to bring weary travelers luck, Zeil could only smile at the small trinket before looking back onto his path and continuing down the road with a peaceful feeling in his step.

However, after taking only three paces from where he was standing, his peaceful feeling was quickly removed just as the sun was covered by a thick cloud that cascaded a dark shadow over the changeling traveler. When the sunlight was blocked, a dark and terrifying feeling came upon Zeil, as he immediately felt an aura like nothing he had ever experienced before appear directly behind him as if from thin air. The peaceful smile Zeil held was immediately replaced with a trembling feeling of worry as Zeil felt too terrified by the aura to turn and gaze upon the creature that held it. He didn’t know what exactly appeared behind him, but judging by the aura he felt, Zeil could only guess that it was a large apelike creature that easily towered above fifteen feet with massive arms and claws as he felt the creature’s gaze looking down upon him like a predator watching his next meal. Then the aura seemed to reach down towards the smaller changeling as Zeil’s fear took over causing him to jump as far forward as he could before turning around in midair, landing, and readying himself for a fight that he knew he probably couldn’t win.

However as soon as Zeil saw what he was dealing with, the aura, the sense of danger and everything terrifying about it, seemed to vanish as Zeil found himself staring not at a massive creature of evil, but at a lone zebra wearing a pitch black cloak as he stood silent with his eyes closed and his hood casting an even darker shadow over his face. Confused, Zeil stared at the elderly zebra as he tried to understand where that feeling came from. With a strange feeling of embarrassment, Zeil sighed to himself as he mumbled, “Was… was that just my imagination running wild? It had to be. Something that… evil, I would have easily sensed approaching. Then again, why didn’t I sense this guy before?”
With that said, Zeil ceased his offensive stance as he stood strait and started to talk to the stranger, however as he opened his mouth to speak, the stranger opened his eyes as the gaze of the zebra brought back the sudden aura of terror and evil for a split second as that alone caused Zeil to silence himself before taking an extra step back in worry.

After the moment passed, Zeil continued to look at the zebra in worry as the older stallion looked at him for a brief moment, then paned his eyes around in the far distance until finally ending on the small statue that sat on the side of the road. With no identifiable expression visible from under the shadow of the zebra’s cloak, Zeil could only stare in curiosity before the zebra looked back at him and spoke with an emotionless tone, “And so… the cycle continues.”
Zeil gave the stranger a confused look, “Wh-what?”
The stranger replied, not with an explanation, but with a riddle, “You travel in hopes of reaching your destination, and claiming your prize. However, while traversing such a path you are met with a divergence. One way, the faster, will lead strait to your goal, but will not allow you to claim your prize. The other, will take your much further in distance and longer in time, however upon reaching your destination you are guaranteed both your goal and prize… Which path would you take in knowing this result? The shorter, or the longer?”

Zeil felt at a complete loss, this stranger seemed to appear out of nowhere bearing an aura that tripled the fear factor of even the dark alicorn himself, but rather then addressing it, he instead gives only a riddle and expects a casual answer. Zeil had no idea what to make of this truly strange yet terrifying creature, but hoping that the answer would bear some sort of information about who he was, Zeil decided to answer, “The longer path.”
The zebra replied with no emotion, “Your reason?”
Zeil continued, “If my path leads to both a goal and a prize, then I would hope to attain both. Otherwise it’s no different from traveling to a market, and back without purchasing anything at all. It’s just a waste of time.”
Though the shadow of his cloak covered his face almost entirely, Zeil could tell that the stranger was smiling as he replied, “If that is your answer, then I only hope you will remember it once the time comes.”

With that said, the strange zebra started trotting towards Zeil, before passing him on the path and continuing down the road with nothing more to say. As the stranger pressed on, Zeil was at a complete loss of words. By appearance, the strange zebra seemed to be nothing more than an elderly zebra with a jet black cloak and dull green eyes, however the aura Zeil sensed was that of a zebra, but also of something else. He didn’t know what beast or demon possessed this elder stallion, but whatever it was, Zeil didn’t want to be near it, let along anger it. So since the stallion was obviously traveling in the same direction that Zeil was, Zeil decided to stop where he was and wait about half an hour before continuing in hopes that the stallion and he won’t have to be in each other’s presence for the remainder of their travels. So with this in mind, Zeil decided to sit and take a break as he watched and waited for the strange zebra to leave his sight.

Later when he felt that enough time had passed, Zeil continued to travel down the road till the road entered a large thick forest with tall trees that that towered hundreds of feet in the air, and held thick canopies above almost sharing the sky with the partially cloudy weather. Knowing this was the road he needed to take, Zeil pressed on as the thick canopies above slowly made the path darker and darker until it seemed as if he were traveling at night. With torches along the road lighting his way, Zeil continued for a few minutes before the road he traveled on parted into two paths. At the center of the fork, there were directional signs pointing in both directions with the words Pergola Village on one. The other sign however read something else but was covered by a removable placard that read Bridge Out, meaning that the passage was obviously unpassable. Seeing this made Zeil think as he mumbled to himself, “Both passages lead west… and the shorter one out of the forest is blocked… is this… the riddle that the old zebra mentioned?”

Thinking that it had to be a coincidence, Zeil turned to the longer passage that lead towards the village as he smiled, “Nah… maybe he was some old kook who knew the bridge was out and was trying to act wise or something.” He thought to himself, “But still… that aura he had before seeing his face… what was that… and… why was it so… terrifying.”
Feeling he was thinking too far into it, Zeil decided to disregard the question as he continued on his path without dwelling any further into the subject.

Hours later as dusk started to settle in, Zeil’s path led deeper into the forest as he noticed that the tall and thick trees that resembled skyscrapers started to become just that, as Zeil could see lit burrows dug into the tall natural structures as Zeil looked at the closest building and smiled at his luck, “A tavern… I hope they have a room I can stay in.”
As soon as the traveling changeling opened the door, his ears where filled with the joyous song of wood cutting griffin patrons as the tired lumberjacks sang and drank to end of a good day’s work. As Zeil made his way through the rowdy room, he was slightly surprised that the town seemed to be only griffin as he made his way to the bar and spoke with the griffin barkeep, “Excuse me sir, do you have any vacancies?”
The bartender nodded as he smiled, “Sure… Welcome to the Timberwolf Tavern, finest establishment in the Wooden Pergola Forest. We have one available room, ten bits for the night, twenty if you intend on staying the whole day tomorrow.”
Zeil reached into his saddlebag as he pulled out a pouch of bits and counted out the money, “One night please… I won’t be here long so that’s all I need.”

Happy he had business, the bartender smiled as he pulled out a large book and replied, “Sound like we have a deal, now I’ll need you to place your name in the registry please. Just a precaution in case you are the type to destroy the room before leaving.”
Zeil nodded as he placed the money on the bar, “I don’t do that, but I understand. Can’t be too careful now-a-days.”
As Zeil wrote his name and information in the book, the bartender pointed to the corner of the room, “Ain’t that the truth. By the way, your friend arrived here before you did and got a table for you both. He’s waiting over there for you.”
Zeil was confused as he looked in the direction that the griffin was pointing, “Friend? What are you ta-”

As Zeil looked across the room, He could see that in the very far corner, at the furthest table, sat the elderly zebra as the cloaked stallion watched Zeil with an emotionless expression on his face. With the Zebra’s hood on his cloak down, Zeil could see his face much clearer then on the road. The old zebra seemed simple as far as zebra go, his grey stripes were faded with age almost blending in with the white of his coat making him look closer to a light grey pony then an older zebra. His mane was cut short and sloppy, as if it was self-cut with a dagger or sword, and on him, were an assortment of accessories that seemed Zebrican in origin, totems, beads, fangs, and claws from vicious predators even a small veil with an unknown red liquid hung from a cord around his neck. Although his appearance was one to catch attention as the lone zebra in the room of griffin, it was his aura that caught Zeil’s full attention. Like on the trail, Zeil could feel two presence in the room from that very table, one of a zebra simple and aged, and another of a vicious monster that would be best avoided, but currently content.

At first, Zeil was going to follow his instinct and avoid the stranger as much as he could, however as he looked around the large tavern, he saw that there were no other table’s with open seats, and then to make the matter worse the bartender spoke, “He already ordered and paid for your beverages. So when they are ready we will get them out for you. Been a while since anyone ordered hot tea, but then again we don’t get zebra in here often.”
Zeil looked back at the bartender and decided to accept the hospitality as he spoke, “Thanks.”
Still unsure, Zeil trotted to the table as the emotionless zebra smiled slightly as Zeil approached the table. As Zeil looked at the zebra, the elder spoke first, “Good to see you again. I take it you saw the divergence in your path, or fork if you want to speak plainly.”
Zeil nodded, “I did.”
The stranger smiled, “And your decision?”

Zeil rolled his eyes in hopelessness before sitting at the table and replying, “I took the longer path… just like I said. Not like I’m going to cross a bridge when it’s out.”
The elderly zebra smiled, “Then it should be good practice.”
At that moment a griffin waitress approached and placed a hot tea kettle and two cups on the table then left as Zeil replied, “Practice?”
The stranger poured himself and Zeil a cup of hot tea as he replied, “Of course… you didn’t think that was the divergence I spoke of did you? Though you chose a longer path as you said, you can’t take a path when the bridge is out, so… you made a choice in a point where… you simply had no choice. Hardly a decision at all when you think about it.”
Zeil replied with distrust in his tone, “So… there is another time when I will make that choice?”
The stranger pushed Zeil’s cup of tea closer to him as he replied, “There will be, but that isn’t anytime soon. And that decision will be much more challenging than just deciding where to go. You will have to make a choice that… you won’t like.”

Zeil was suspicious, “What kind of choice?”
As Zeil picked up the tea to take a sip, the clever zebra smiled sinisterly, “That my changeling friend, is one that you will have to discover on your own.”
As soon as that was said, Zeil paused as he felt a cold chill run up his spine as he sensed the dark and eerie presence surround the elderly zebra get stronger. He knew he had never mentioned or hinted that he was a changeling as Zeil could only give the strange zebra a distrusting stare, “Who are you?...”
The Zebra didn’t reply, instead he only gave Zeil a sinister and untrustworthy smile.

Before Zeil could reply to the smile, the Tavern door was thrown open with enough force to slam against the wall, leaving the entire room Zeil included, to look to the door in surprise as a wounded griffin entered. Though the griffin’s expression was enough to say it out loud, the aura that Zeil could sense from the unexpected guest was that of great fear, the same fear of impending death. Bleeding and terrified, the wounded griffin franticly closed the tavern door and then leaned against it with his right shoulder, before covering his wound on his left shoulder. Confused one of the tavern patrons spoke, “Hatchet? What’s wrong? Why do you look so frantic?”
The frantic griffin looked at his fellow lumberjack as he spoke, “A-Ace… She’s… she’s dead… it… it killed her! I tried to stop it but… but…”
Another Griffin stood up, “Whoa calm down, who’s dead?”
The Wounded griffin replied with shame, “R-Roxanna… I tried to stop it… I I tried to fight it off her but… but… but it didn’t help. He… that thing ripped her apart all the same.”
A third spoke up, “Thing?... What was it? Timberwolves?”

Hatchet shook his head as he tried to calm down enough to explain clearly, “N-no… it was too vicious to be a temberwolf… I… I killed it… but… I didn’t… I buried an axe into its head and it still kept coming. I tried to save her… but… but it wasn’t enough. She was dead so… I ran… I’m not a coward… there was just nothing I could do.”
Zeil watched the sight in shock as the zebra took a sip of his tea and spoke with a careless tone, “A shame… to do everything you can and fail to save a loved one… Must be painful.”
Angered by how careless he seemed, Zeil looked to the zebra as he spoke, “You… do you have anything to do with this?”
The stranger gave him an annoyed look as he replied, “Stove your anger… Does it look like I have an axe imbedded in my head? Besides, look at his wound… I don’t have what is needed to make that kind of wound.”

Confused, Zeil looked back to the sight at the front of the room as the wounded griffin was approached by another as the second griffin spoke, “You did what you could, now let’s just get you patched up.”
As the wounded griffin uncovered his shoulder, Zeil could see his wound clearly. Though the blood made it hard to make out from the distance, Zeil could see that it was a shallow cut in the shape of a V that seemed to be made on both sides of his shoulder. At first Zeil didn’t understand what could make a wound like this, however as he watched the scene unfold, another griffin spoke, “A bite from a beak? Was the creature some kind of eagle?”
The Zebra continued watching without any emotion on the sight as he replied quietly enough for only he and Zeil to hear, “Or a griffin.”
Zeil looked at the Zebra, “A griffin? But why wou-“
Before he could finish, the wounded griffin at the front spoke, “No… it wasn’t an eagle… I think it was… Jake.”

Zeil was confused as another griffin in the tavern replied, “Jake? Your brother? But he was washed away with the bridge last week. We thought he was dead.”
The Hatchet shook his head, “No… his feathers and coat were pitch black, and his eyes were red, but… but I know my brother when I see him… it was him… I know it.”
With all of Zeil’s attention on the commotion, the elderly zebra took this time to reach into his cloak as he pulled out a small folded slip of paper. With no one paying him any attention, the old zebra preceded to hold the slip of paper over Zeil’s cup of tea as he unfolded it and poured a blood red powder into Zeil’s drink as he watched the potion dissolve into drink and vanish from sight.

With nopony seeing his action, the elderly zebra put away the slip of paper and continued drinking his own drink as the scene in the front of the room continued with another griffin speaking, “Where did this happen?”
Hatchet replied, “At the edge of the forest, Roxanna and I were trying to cut down a few extra trees before calling it a night… it’s my fault, I should have quit at the usual time. If I did, I could have saved her… I could have preven-“
The bartender approached with a first-aid kit as he interrupted, “Let’s not worry about that right now, let’s get you patched up first.”

As the griffins saw to their friend’s wounds, Zeil could hear a few of them talk amongst each other quietly, “You think he’s alright? Do don’t think he is just imagining this after losing his brother?”
Another griffin replied, “Hard to say… buried his axe in its head and it still kept coming?... I don’t know of anything that could do that and live much longer.”
The first griffin nodded, “I thought so… whatever attacked him is most likely dead now. Maybe a timberwolf or something similar. I hear they can combine their bodies into much larger creatures. Maybe they found a way to make them into a griffin.”
The second griffin nodded, “Yea, that or maybe he’s just over worked, Hatchet and Jake were very close. He could still be trying to cope with the loss in his own way. Either way we should see about Roxanna. She could have gotten away safely. Hatched has always been one to excaudate the truth a little bit.”

As Zeil listened in on the two whispering griffin, he looked back at the Zebra as he asked, “You don’t know anything about this do you? You think his story is true?”
The old zebra nodded as he sipped on his tea and replied, “I think, and I know it is true. This world is filled with all sorts of light, and darkness. And this thing that attacked him, is a form of darkness in itself.”
Zeil picked up his cup of tea as he asked with suspicion, “You say that as if you know exactly what attacked him… so, what was it? Was it a griffin like you say?”
Zeil took a drink of his tea as the zebra replied, “It is… or… it was… Let’s just say, sometimes, you truly don’t want to know the answer to something.”
Zeil held his tea as he replied, “Really… and why is that?”

The evil creature smiled, “Because when you truly know what darkness is, and what it can do… It will only remind you of the true horror of this world… and how helpless you are to stop it.”
At that moment, Zeil dropped his cup on the table as his head started to feel dizzy, as soon as he realized it, Zeil spoke, “Wh-what?... wait… you… what did yo-”
Zeil fell flat on the table as the zebra put the hood on his cloak up as he spoke, “Sorry Zeil… but for things to continue as they should, you cannot see what is about to happen here.”
As Zeil’s consciousness started to fade he could hear a griffin speak, “Hey is your buddy alright?”
The zebra lied, “Just a little tired, it’s been a long da-”
Before Zeil could hear more, everything to him, went black. As he succumbed to the zebra’s poison.

Hours later, Zeil woke to the feeling of cold water being splashed over his face in large quantities as the shocked changeling quickly sat up in surprise to find himself in what looked to be a jail cell. Outside the thick bars at the front of the cell stood four griffin guards wearing grey armor as the lead who was wearing polished silver armor looked to the guard on the far right as he spoke, “Thank you… Now give us a few minutes with him.”
The griffin to the far side was still holding the now empty bucket as he nodded before leaving the area and closing the doors behind him, leaving Zeil and the remaining three guards alone. As Zeil tried to rub his head in confusion, he realized there was an iron cuff around his neck that was connected to the floor beneath him as he spoke in confusion, “What? Where am I?”
The lead guard replied, “You’re at the Pergola Guard Post. But enough about that, we have some questions for you. Mr…?”

Although his memories felt fuzzy, Zeil could tell that something was wrong since he was locked in a cell, and he could feel a cautious hostility from all three griffin present. Since he wasn’t in any place to argue, Zeil replied, “Zeil… my name is Zeil… what do you want to ask?”
The lead guard spoke, “You can start with what happened at the Timberwolf Tavern last night… then we can move on to ho-“
A second guard who was leaning against the wall sighed before interrupting, “Why are we even bothering with this? It’s obvious what happened, he was found lying amongst the dead as if they were his pillows. Let’s face it, he killed the entire tavern, that and the fact that he is a stranger to this forest is evidence enough.”

Zeil was completely shocked by what he heard, “Wh-what?”
Seeing his surprise, the lead guard spoke, “So… you don’t know then. This morning we got a call from a waitress of the Timberwolf Tavern. When she reported in for work she found a bloodbath waiting for her. All twelve residents and their staff were found dead this morning as if they were mauled by a wild animal.”
The second guard spoke again, “And amongst them… we found you. Unconscious and unharmed, so that leaves us to ask… Why did you do it?”
The lead guard sighed as he spoke, “What my gung-ho subordinate is trying to say, is that we need you to tell us what you know about what happened last night. So far the rest of the village thinks you did it and we would like to get all the information before condemning you to gallows.”

Zeil tried to wrap his mind around what happened the night before as he spoke, “But… I didn’t hurt anypony…”
The third griffin who was silent the whole time nodded as he replied, “Makes since to me… all the victims were griffin, so no ponies were actually hurt last night.”
Zeil looked at that guard and replied, “You know what I mean… I wouldn’t hurt anybody.”
The second griffin sighed, “Sure you wouldn’t…”
The lead guard spoke, “Be that as it may, could you at least tell your side of the story? You can start with why you came to Wooden Pergola Forest. It’s not often we see zebra here.”
Zeil nodded, “I’m not a zebra. I’m a changeling.” Zeil changed into his changeling form as he continued, “I’m a traveler just passing through on my way to Equestria. I decided to stop at the tavern last night to rest and leave this morning.”

The second guard drew his sword, “A changeling! Now I know you killed them!”
The lead spoke, “Stand Down… I’ve seen his kind before. He’s a reform, word is this type of changelings are lucky.”
Zeil was confused, “Lucky? I don’t know about that. But reformed changelings are less hostile then parasitic ones.”
The quiet guard nodded, “Yea… and I don’t think anything about what happened last night could be considered… Lucky.”
The lead guard gave Zeil a curious look, “Wait… you said you’re a traveler?... you wouldn’t happen to be the one who was traveling from Spring Haven are you?”
Zeil nodded, “Well, I was in Spring Haven a number of months ago, but...”
The lead guard smiled, “So you’re him then aren’t you.”
The second guard gave his leader a confused look, “Wait… you know this guy?”
The lead spoke, “Not personally, but I got a message from a friend in the guard station a few kingdoms over who was talking about this guy. Says he showed up one day, disrespected the princess to her face, then surprised the whole kingdom when he saved her from a curse. Says he’s the real deal. A changeling who knows magic.”

The other two guards gave Zeil an impressed look as Zeil nodded, “Yea well… Let’s just say I was in town when I saw something that needed my help. That’s all.”
The lead smiled, “Well it was certainly an impressive story to say the least. But why did it take so long for you to get here? We heard that story a few weeks ago.”
Zeil nodded, “Well, I lost my wings a long time ago, so I’ve been traveling by hoof. And with the summer heat, and the fact that there were very few fresh water rivers between here and there, it became a little difficult traveling in the summer sun.”
The lead smiled, “Well that makes since.”
Zeil smiled, “So… does that mean my name is cleared?”
The quiet guard shook his head, “That’s a no-go on that one bud. Even a saint can fall from grace, so unless you have any solid evidence that clears your name, you’re still in the hot seat.”
The lead guard nodded, “I’m afraid he’s right, the story confirms your identity, but does nothing to prove your innocents. Especially for crime as serious as this. Do you remember what happened last night, possibly what caused you to fall unconscious?”

Zeil thought to himself as he tried to remember, “Well… I arrived at the tavern… then… I met wi-” He remembered something, “The Zebra!”
The three guards became interested as the lead spoke, “Zebra?”
Zeil asked, “Of the victims there, where there any zebra amongst them?”
The lead and second guard looked at the quiet one as he shook his head and replied, “No… all the victims were griffin.”
Zeil continued, “Then he survived too. There was a zebra there last night with the rest of us. I didn’t get his name, but I noticed something about him that was… uneasy…”
The lead guard asked, “Uneasy… how?”
Zeil replied, “We changelings can sense what a species is and their emotions, that’s how our old form could feed on love, but him… he had no emotions to sense. His mind was always calm with no hint of emotion in him at all. No surprise, no curiosity, no interest what so ever. He was emotionless all the way through… and not just that. There was something… dark about him. Something evil…”

The second guard sighed, “So it wasn’t you… it was the evil emotionless zebra? Sure… that’s what it was.”
Zeil gave that guard an annoyed look, “Predators show no emotion when they hunt prey. Instead they give a type of aura that makes them seem empty and heartless. This zebra gave the same aura.”
The lead guard nodded, “Either way, it’s worth looking into. We will put out a search for this zebra and asked him a few question. However, this doesn’t mean we can release you just yet. We still need more solid evidence before we can rule you out as a suspect. Is there anything else you can remember?”
Zeil tried to think, he remembered a little about the commotion that happened prior to his poisoning, but he couldn’t recall what it was about or who was involved so he shook his head, “There might be something else, but… I can’t remember what it was. Most of what happened after I arrived there is a little… fuzzy.”

The second guard sighed with exaggeration as he replied, “So we’re supposed to believe that you just forgot? Do you really think we are as dumb t-“
The lead guard raised his talon to silence his subordinate as he interrupted, “Now now, since Zeil here was found unconscious and didn’t wake till long after we brought him back, then it is possible that his sleep wasn’t as simple as being tired. Whatever happened however remains to be seen. So, for the time being, we will continue to hold him here till we can find further evidence, or until we apprehend this zebra character for questioning.” He looked back at Zeil, “Is that acceptable?”
Zeil knew he had no choice, so he just nodded, “Sure… I guess.”
The three guards nodded as they turned towards the door as the three guards left the room. After they were gone, the jailer returned with a small plate of bread as he gave the food to Zeil before taking up his post at a desk that overlooked the cells.

Outside the small jail building the elderly zebra stood and looked upon the building from a distance as the thick canopy above cloaked the area in an everlasting night. With only torches lighting the only stone structure in the forest, the cloaked Zebra remained hidden by darkness as he looked at the building and mumbled to himself, “With all the pieces on the board, it’s almost time to begin this game of ours. Soon, it will be time to kill an enchanter.”
All of a sudden, a ferocious roar from an unknown beast echoed throughout the forest behind him as he turned and looked into the distance as he smiled, “But first… I’m going to need a little help."

Bk6/Ch2 Chosen

Book 6/Chapter 2
Chosen…
Year 04, Month 01, Day 07

“What do you mean you won’t help me!?!”
Rafi stood meditating in perfect balance at the peak of an ice spire as he replied, “It’s as I said… this message isn’t one that I must pass.”
Standing on the mountain slop that sat under the meditating guide, Zeil replied, “Your my guide aren’t you?... Well?... I need guidance. I’ve been sitting in a cell for almost two days now, and this Zebra that framed me is still out there. If he isn’t caught soon, then they are going to charge me with murder.”
The confident zebra smiled, “You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover so needlessly. As you know, it’s the contents of its pages that matter in the end.”
Zeil gave Rafi a dull look as he replied, “Okay let’s take a look at its contents then shall we? His aura is that of a ferocious beast or demon or something, he poisoned me, he framed me for a mass murder and for all I know, he’s out there killing more. Unless you have any reason I should trust him I think my judgement is pretty much on point with this one.”

Rafi smiled at Zeil’s frustration as he replied, “That aside, this zebra may seem dark… and he is… but, There is more to this one than meets the eye, after all darkness is merely a form of magic, evil isn’t always its intent.”
Zeil replied with a skeptic look, “You know something about him don’t you?”
Rafi nodded, “I do… and I chose this… cool setting to calm you enough to ask about it.”
Zeil continued while ignoring the joke, “Who is he?”
Rafi smiled as he replied, “Why don’t you ask him yourself… after all…” Rafi’s expression became serious, “He’s coming for you.”
Zeil could feel the seriousness of his warning but before he could reply, Zeil opened his eyes as he found himself in his meditative position in the center of his cell.

As Zeil felt confused about Rafi’s warning, he could hear a loud commotion from the other side of the door leading to the rest of the guard post. Approaching the bars and staring at the door that exited the room of cells, Zeil listened as he heard some of what the guards were yelling outside, “Hold him back!” “He’s too fast!” “Kayla! He got Kayla!” “Kill that thing!!!” “What is he? He won’t stop!” “Stay away… STAY AWAY!!!”
Confused by the frantic yelling Zeil looked through the bars to the door as the door flew open as the Jailer rushed through and closed the door behind him before locking it in fear. As soon as Zeil saw this, he spoke, “What’s happening? What’s going on out there?”
As soon as the guard heard this, he looked at Zeil then rushed to his desk as he replied, “I have to get you out!... Something is attacking the post! I don’t know what it is, but I’m going to need your help to kill it.”

As the guard pulled the cell keys from the desk, he rushed back to Zeil’s cell as Zeil replied, “What is it?”
The guard franticly searched the cluttered key ring to find the right key before finding it and trembling in worry as he inserted the key into the cell’s lock, “I don’t know… it… it’s some kind of monster. It killed the rest of my comr-“
All of a sudden whatever was outside the room slammed against the door as the sound caused the guard to jump in fear as his reaction snapped the head of the key off in the lock as he looked at the now broken key in worry, “Oh no…”

With the beast outside clawing against the door, the guard rushed back to his desk as he pulled out a sword, drew it from its sheath, and readied it as he replied, “I’m sorry changeling… but it looks like this is up to me now.”
Zeil was too confused to reply, but as he looked to the door he was surprised to see that whatever was clawing at the door from the outside started to claw through as the center of the wooden door started chipping away to reveal sharp claws that were scratching vigorously to get into the room. Soon the door was clawed away enough as the wooden structure split in two as a solid black feral griffin pushed through the door before glaring at the guard with its unworldly red eyes, and an expression of sheer hatred. As Zeil looked at the beast, he felt completely confused at what his senses were telling him. Anyone who had ever been in the same room as a griffin could easily say that this was one of them, however the aura that the feral creature was giving of wasn’t a griffin at all, it was an earth pony. And to make it even more confusing, the creature which held an expression of sheer hatred or anger, wasn’t feeling any such emotion at all. In fact the emotion that the creature was actually feeling was one of incredible pain and misery that would make any lesser creature pass out from sheer horror.

As Zeil tried to understand all these strange auras that filled the room, the beast glared at its prey as the guard readied his sword, “You killed my comrades… YOU WILL PAY!!!”
Enraged the guard charged at the beast as he swung his sword with all his might, aiming carefully on the beast’s neck. However the feral griffin wasn’t fazed one bit as it reached out and caught the sword’s blade with its bare talon stopping it immediately while leaving only a small cut on the creature’s palm. With no hint of pain in its expression, the beast reached out with its other talon and grabbed the guard by the chest plate of his armor as the creature slammed the guard against the wall before pulling the sword from his talon and tossing it aside. Unarmed and pinned, the guard could only stare into the red eyes of the beast as the monster glared at his prey for a brief moment before pulling in the guard and biting right into his neck as the sharp griffin beak dug into the guards throat causing the guard’s body to go limp, as Zeil felt his aura vanish with his death.

As soon as the guard stopped moving Zeil felt worried, with the beast killing the only remaining aura in the building that Zeil could sense, he now knew that he was trapped in the station with a monstrous creature with only his cell bars protecting him. Slowly, the beast dropped the guard as it turned towards Zeil allowing the nervous changeling to get a good look at him. The griffin stood at the same height as normal griffin, while the feathers and fur on his coat were solid black and his eyes were glowing ruby red. Though there were no irises or pupils inhabiting the red field of the creator’s eyes, there wasn’t a need for them as Zeil could tell the creature was looking directly at him as it started growling at the last living thing in sight.

Nervous, Zeil backed away until his back was against the cold stone of the cell’s back wall. Then as if it were given an order, the creature charged at the trapped changeling as it slammed against the cell’s bars before reaching into the cell in a failed attempt to grab its trapped prey. As Zeil leaned against the wall he felt both relived and terrified at the same time. It was obvious that the griffin wasn’t smart enough to realize the bars kept it out. However, if this creature was strong enough to bite through a griffin’s neck and into vital arteries, then how long would it take for it to break through the metal bars of the cell? As Zeil waited with his back literally to the wall, he tried to think of ways to escape the cell, but it was no use, even if he managed to find a way passed the feral creature, the metal clasp that was around his neck and bolted to the floor below him would make it impossible to escape. No matter what he did, every option Zeil had ended the feral beast’s talons.

As Zeil waited with his back to the wall, the beast soon stopped reaching for him and started backing up and charging the bars before bashing its body against them in an attempt to break through. Seeing this only worried him more, however soon Zeil’s worry was deterred when he felt a strange warming sensation against his back. Confused, Zeil turned around and looked at the wall he was leaning against as he saw a strange greenish discoloration appearing on the center of the grey stone wall. Stepping back from the wall, Zeil watched as the lime green coloring started spreading across the stone wall. Soon Zeil’s attention was brought back to the griffin beast as a loud pop was heard when one of the griffin’s powerful charges managed to break one of the bar’s free as the now damaged obstructions allowed the griffin to reach further into the cell.

As the creature realized its progress, it took a moment to press against the bars and reach for Zeil again but still found its reach to be too short before glaring at Zeil and roaring ferociously in anger. Then without warning, a black spear made from woven wood vines flew passed Zeil and into the griffin’s open mouth as the force from the projectile pierced the back of the griffin’s throat and slammed it against the back wall before nailing it in place. Shocked to see the ferocious beast now pinned to the wall by a pike, Zeil looked back to the spear’s origin to see that the now green cell wall had a hole in its center where the stone seemed to be melting away. As the stone continued melting making the wall open up more to the outside, Zeil realized that this was his chance as he started towards his freedom, however as he did, the iron clasp around his neck stopped him as he looked back at the opposite end of the connecting chain that was bolted to the cell’s floor.

Annoyed that his freedom was just out of his reach, Zeil looked back to the opened wall, but as he did something else was there that caused him to back away from his freedom in worry. Entering through the melted cell wall was none other than the elder zebra as he stepped into the cell, looked at the immobile monster on the opposite side of the bars and spoke, “Calm yourself beast, this changeling will not be your prey on this day.”
That said, the cloaked zebra shifted his eyes to Zeil as he spoke, “Hold still, I’ll make it quick…”
Confused, Zeil could only feel even more nervous as he saw something very odd forming in the darkness of the zebra’s shadow. On the ground beneath the zebra’s hooves, a strange black vine seemed to emerge from his shadow as it slowly grew onto the chain connected to Zeil’s neck cuff. Slowly the vine started growing up the chain, towards Zeil’s neck as the trapped changeling’s worry slowly turned to fear.

Struggling to free himself, Zeil tugged at the chain in his last ditch effort to free himself, but it was no use as the vines finally reached his neck and made their way between the metal cuff and his throat as the worried changeling felt the vines grow thicker, as this action started squeezing the trapped changeling’s neck causing him to choke. As Zeil’s air was cut off, Zeil dropped to a knee gasping for air as the vines seemed to squeeze his neck tighter and tighter until finally a metal chime was heard as the cuff loosened entirely before falling to the ground at Zeil’s hooves. Free, Zeil gasped for air as he looked at the broken cuff that was now laying at his hooves realizing that the reason he felt the cuff tighten was because the vine was pulling the cuff apart until it broke under its stress. Confused Zeil looked back to the zebra enchanter as the zebra spoke, “Make your way north deeper into the forest. Do everything you can to avoid roads and the village. These… things, are everywhere.”

Zeil felt even more confused as he replied, “Wait… you helped me? But I thought y-”
Before he could finish, Zeil was interrupted by a horrid gurgling sound as both he and the zebra enchanter looked to the griffin beast that was nailed to the wall as the creature reached up and grabbed the spear protruding from its mouth and throat in an effort to free itself. Confused Zeil looked at what should have been a fatal wound as he spoke, “Wh-what? But… how is it still alive… its spine should be severed… that should have killed it…”
The zebra gave the beast an angry look, “You haven’t seen anything yet…”
At that moment, the immobile beast realized it couldn’t pull itself free as it slowly shifted its eyes towards the dead guard who laid on the ground below him.

As the beast looked at his previous prey, a strange red haze seemed to emit from the creature’s eyes as it slowly hovered towards the dead guard then entered the body through the wound left on his neck. Confused, Zeil started to feel the guard’s aura return however it wasn’t the aura of a griffin that took its place, it was an earth pony’s aura as it was joined by emotions of extreme pain and misery identical to the beast nailed to the wall. Then the guard’s coat and feathers slowly changed from their normal white and tan coloring, to a charred black. Struggling, the dead guard picked itself up, before opening his now ruby red eyes and shifting them towards the two enchanters in the cell. As Zeil watched the dead guard return to life, he mumbled, “You… you got to be kidding me…”
The zebra looked at their new threat as he spoke with a casual tone, “There… now you’ve seen everything.”

Zeil could only stare in complete shock at the new threat as he spoke, “What… are they? Their aura… it’s identical… as if they were the exact same… creature.”
More black vines started growing from the Zebra’s shadow as the stranger replied, “I’ll tell you later… right now… you need to do what I said and run before more show up. As we speak, they are attacking the village and creating more of these things, under his command.”
As the growing vines weaved themselves into a second wooden spear, Zeil replied, “His? Who?”
The Zebra took the new wooden weapon as he replied, “I’ll tell you later, for now go, and remember to keep your guard up, As soon as it’s dropped, they will dive in from above. And… they always go for the throat.”
Zeil was conflicted as he replied, “Bu-”
The zebra gave Zeil an angry look as a feeling of incredible danger emitted form the zebra as he replied, “I SAID GO!!!”
At that moment, the resurrected guard charged at the bars slamming himself against them and popping another bar free from its base. Seeing that the zebra was serious, and the creatures were now closer to harming them, Zeil decided to do what he was told as he rushed out of the new opening in the jail cell and started running deeper into the forest.

As Zeil fled the scene he traveled along the edge of the village however as he did, he could hear horrifying sounds coming from the middle of the village as the thick canopied forest echoed with the screams of the fleeing, yells of the angry, cries of the dying, and roars of the beasts causing it all. Remembering what the zebra had told him, Zeil decided to leave the village and travel deeper into the forest though since the canopied forest blocked out any view of the sky, it was impossible for him to tell which direction north was so Zeil decided to just choose a direction that was away from the village.

As Zeil traveled further and further from the village, the sounds of the chaos that was taking place started to get fainter until the dark forest once again became a silent realm of darkness. As Zeil realized he was far from danger, he decided to stop and rest at the base of one of the many towering trees that covered the night sky from view. As he rested Zeil mumbled, “What is going on? These things… what in the world are they?… and that zebra. What does he have to do with any of this?”
As he thought to himself he started to remember what the zebra had told him, “Okay… keep your guard up, as soon as its dropped, they dive in from above, and they go for the thro-“
As he repeated the warning, Zeil immediately felt the aura of something falling from the canopies above as he quickly rolled his body over causing him to fall onto the ground on his back as he raised his right hoof to guard his neck as the falling feral beast tried to bit his neck only to dig his sharp break into Zeil’s fore arm as the failed attack caused damage to Zeil’s unprotected arm. As the monster’s beak dug deep into Zeil’s arm, the changeling screamed in a combination of anger and pain as the beast soon realized he missed Zeil’s neck before picking Zeil up buy his arm and flinging his head before releasing its prey as Zeil was tossed across the area before hitting a tree about twenty feet from where he was attacked.

As he hit the tree, Zeil quickly griped his bleeding arm as he looked back to see the griffin approaching him slowly. With his hoof wounded and nowhere to go, Zeil felt worried that this was the end as the beast approached its cornered prey while growling in anger. As the griffin approached, it raised himself onto his hind paws as it roared ferociously in a final show of dominance over his prey, however as he did, a wood spear immediately protruded out of his chest as he looked back to see the cloaked zebra had caught up and stabbed him from behind. Before the Griffin could react to the attack, the skilled zebra used his lodged weapon to toss the griffin over his shoulder as the griffin was thrown off the weapon and away from Zeil before hitting one of the many thick trees in the area. When the griffin hit the tree, the zebra darted towards him as he approached the stunned beast before lunging his weapon into the creature’s eye, nailing the beast against the wooden tree just like he did the one back at the guard post. As the griffin tried to react to the subduing attack, the zebra released his spear, jumped back away from his foe, then swung his hoof in a slashing motion as a strange invisible blade decapitated the pinned creature leaving both a strange cut marking in the tree below the beast’s neck, and the still moving head hanging above the cut.

Shocked at what he witnessed, Zeil could only stare at the zebra as he saw water dripping from the enchanter’s hoof as he spoke, “That… that was elemental magic wasn’t it? Water blade?”
The zebra looked back at Zeil and he nodded, “Yes… Cunningham taught you well.”
Zeil was confused, “What, but how do y-“
At that moment, the creature’s head which was still moving and nailed to the tree tried to snap at the zebra as the dark enchanter looked back at the biting head and replied, “I’ll tell you… but not here. For now, we need to get back to my camp. We will be safe there from these… things.” he pulled damp bandages from his saddlebag and tossed them to Zeil, “For now wrap your wound in this. It will make it heal faster.”

As Zeil caught the bandages, he noticed the dampness in them and a distinct smell as he replied, “This potion… is this?...”
The zebra nodded, “It’s a healing potion for flesh wounds. If anything it will close your wound before it becomes infected.”
Zeil gave the zebra a distrusting look as the zebra sighed, “If I wanted to kill you I would have done that back at the inn. Right now I need you alive, so just trust me alright? I’ll explain more when we are back at the camp.”
Though he still didn’t trust the zebra, Zeil knew that the bandages were safe as he wrapped the bandages around his wounded arm cringing as the cold damp bandage laid across his stinging wound. As Zeil did this, the zebra enchanter approached the severed head of the immortal beast as he looked the still growling creature in its remaining eye as he spoke, “You can see me… can’t you? Now, you know who I am and what I can do… So if want me, come find me… And we can talk.”
Although Zeil paid more attention to treating his wound, he still felt confused as the zebra turned away from the creature as he spoke, “Let’s go… my camp is up this way… stay close.”

Zeil Shook his head as he finished wrapping his wound and replied with a frustrated tone, “Oh no… First, tell me what’s going on here! What are these things? And why were they acting that way? And while you’re at it, tell me why that one is still alive despite the fact that it’s a severed head hanging from a spear that is nailing it to a tree through its eye!?!”
The Zebra smiled at Zeil’s frustration as he replied, “If any others witnessed everything you have, they would say that they are… well… Zombies.”
Zeil gave the Zebra a dull look, “Zombies…” he paused for a moment before shaking his head, “Nope…”
Zeil turned away and started leaving as the zebra spoke, “And where are you going?”
Zeil replied without turning around, “I’m out… living dead is where I draw the line.”

The Zebra sighed before replying, “I said others would say that they were zombies… I didn’t say that that’s what they are.”
Zeil paused before turning back to the zebra, “What?”
The Zebra replied, “I said they aren’t zombie. First off, zombies don’t exist, second this isn’t something created by some virus or bioweapon. These things were created purely by magic.”
Zeil was confused, “Magic?”
The Zebra nodded, “Yes… Magic. They don’t act out of impulse they are under control by somepony who manipulated a forbidden spell in a way that disrespects all forbidden magic and laws.”
Zeil replied with a skeptic tone, “What kind of spell?”
The Zebra turned towards the woods as he replied, “I’ll explain more… but only after we get to the camp. I have a spell brewing that needs tending too and if we wait too long I will miss my chance to add the next ingredient.”

With that said, the unknown zebra made his way further into the woods as he started trotting back to his camp. Though Zeil was unsure about the idea, he still felt safer following the cloaked zebra then to take his chances with the monstrous beast that were now terrorizing the forest. So with his wound now bandaged, Zeil limped behind as he and the zebra enchanter made their way further into the woods as he spoke, “By the way… that thing bit me back there… I’m… not going to turn into one of them… am I?”
The Zebra replied as he continued leading the way, “That is the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard. They can’t make you one of them till they kill you.”
Zeil nodded as he replied with a tone that showed his confusion, “Oh… um… okay…”
With that said, the two continued quietly through the forest towards the zebra’s camp.

After a few minutes of traveling, the forest entered a small clearing with a small camp already set in the middle. The camp seems slightly more then simple since there was a campfire sitting in the center with a small cauldron hanging over the fire by a hook. Along both sides of the fire sat two logs that were set specifically to be a type of bench. Behind them was a small one pony tent that looked like it had been used for the last couple of nights. As Zeil entered he could see a potion boiling over the fire as the Zebra looked into the bubbling brook and put his hood down, “Ah, just in time for the next addition.”
Sitting down at the bench closest to the cauldron, the zebra pulled a small vial from his saddlebag as he opened the container and poured in a small amount of what looked to be hair from an unknown creature. Still cautious of the zebra enchanter, Zeil sat on the other log just across the fire from the zebra as something caught his eye. Laying between the fire and the log he was sitting on was a small dagger that seemed as if it was discarded. As Zeil saw the blade, he assumed it was dropped or forgotten by the zebra while the enchanter was setting up the camp but rather then bringing the dagger to the Zebra’s attention, Zeil decided to leave it where it was in case he would need it to defend himself should the enchanter turn out to be what he seemed.

As Zeil sat watching the zebra tend to his potion, he started to get irritated. After arriving at the camp, Zeil expected the Zebra to explain what was happening around them, instead the old stallion only sat next to the cauldron making the potion and paying no attention to Zeil at all. Slightly annoyed, Zeil finally broke the silence, “Well?...”
The Zebra spoke without looking up, “If you think this is a stew, you’re wrong. It’s a potion, and it’s not meant for you.”
Zeil replied with an annoyed tone, “You said something about a spell that created those things right? Well?... Out with it!”

Elder Zebra sighed in irritation as he looked up and replied, “Seriously… there is no respecting your elders in this day and age.” He looked back at the potion, added another ingredient, and continued, “The spell that was used to create those things is a forbidden one. Number three in the most forbidden spells of all of Zebrica. To mention its name or what it does is considered a capital crime and is punishable by death… but considering what you’ve witnessed… I think I can tell you. The spell he used, or in this case altered is called the Curse of Resurrection.”
Zeil was confused, “Resurrection? You mean like, bringing somepony back from the dead?”
The Zebra nodded, “Yes… it is a very difficult spell with three very important laws that must be followed before conducting it properly. First, you must have remains of the one you wish to return to this world. Second, the one you wish to return must have died by unnatural means. Bringing one back who died by illness, or age would only return a dying life to this world. They must be either victims of accident, or to a grimmer extent, murder.”

Zeil didn’t understand as he shook his head, “That doesn’t make sense, I was told that there isn’t a way to bring life back from the dead.”
The Zebra smiled, “A lesson told to you by Rafi correct? Yes, he is right. We in this world are born with one life and one life only. Once it’s gone, that life will never return to this world. However, this spell incorporated a loop-hole which falls onto the third law of this spell. In order to bring one back from death, the caster must share his life. In other words, once the victim is returned, should one of you die, you both will. That’s what makes it a curse. To bring back the dead, you will forever risk your own life.” His eyes shifted from the potion to Zeil as he continued, “But the enchanter who caused this mess, broke this law. He manipulated those poor creatures at a point that trapes them between life and death forcing them to live in an eternal agony that is neither living nor dead. You felt it when you sensed their aura didn’t you? You sensed both the pain that they were continuously feeling, and… you also sensed the aura of the spell caster responsible for that pain. The earth pony who dares to insult a curse so disrespectfully.”

Mentioning Rafi was the last straw as Zeil gave the stranger an angry look, “Tell me who you are? What’s is your roll in all this, and how do you know so much about me?”
The Zebra smiled as he replied, “My name… is irrelevant. It won’t change anything, nor will it benefit you in any way that helps the situation. If you must refer to me at all, then refer to me as my title. The Mage.”
Zeil gave the stranger an untrusting look, “Mage?”
The stranger nodded, “Yes, the Mage.”
Zeil replied with a confused tone, “So… you’re a mage of some sort?”
The Zebra shook his head, “I’m not just some mage… I’m The Mage. I am known as The Mage of Zebrica.”

Zeil gave the Mage a confused look as the Zebra saw his confusion and nodded, “You haven’t heard of me?… Not surprising since you’ve yet to reach Zebrica, so allow me to explain.” He waved his hoof over the brew as two hot coals from under the cauldron popped out of the fire and rolled into the ground next to the camp fire. “What did you learn while staying in the Ibex Temple?”
Though he still wanted an explanation of how the zebra knew him, Zeil was still curious of the lesson so he replied to the question, “Balance… The world revolves around it.”
The Zebra nodded, “Yes… and how did your encounter with the dark alicorn prove that lesson?”
Zeil replied, “That when the world becomes imbalanced it finds ways to equal itself out. Sometimes in the most destructive ways possible”

The Mage nodded, “Very good, the world need balance to function properly. Day and night,” He raised his hoof over the first coal, “Light…” All of a sudden the glowing red coal changed colors as it began glowing white, then the zebra moved his hoof over the second coal, “And Dark.”
At that moment, the second coal which also started out glowing red changed colors to emit an eerie black glow as Zeil marveled at the strange change in appearance. As Zeil looked at the coals the Zebra continued, “As the world evolves, so too does the very balance. Light by a little amount, and dark to even it out.”
As he said this, a flame appeared over each coal as the fire emitted the exact same colors as the coal beneath it. As the flames grew the zebra continued, “As time progresses, we soon find a problem. If both light and darkness is continuously equal then with every joyous event of each day, comes an equal event of misery. So… the moment a solution was deemed possible. The enchanters of Zebrica sought an opportunity. One amongst them was born with darkness inside him. And rather than casting him aside as they did prior, they decided to use him.”
At that moment, the black burning coal split in two as the second part of the coal popped off and rolled a few inches from the others before changing from its eerie black glow to a strange green color, complete with a flame to match.

Amazed with the strange reaction Zeil looked upon the large white coal and the two smaller coals as the enchanter continued, “With one using darkness for good, the balance can be maintained while keeping the world slightly better. Should any form of the darkness rise up against the light, the other darkness can combat it using its own darkness as a deterrent. This is what The Mage of Zebrica represents. Darkness for good, but darkness none-the-less.”
Zeil was confused, “Wait… can darkness be good? I thought all darkness was bad and all light was good.”
The mage replied with a serious tone, “Light… dark… this merely describes the type of magic that is being used. Whether it be good or bad?... well…”
The zebra waved his hoof over the coals towards the campfire as the three coals regained their red color before rolling back into the campfire and mixing amongst the flames. “Well… that is a lesson for another to teach. I’m not qualified to tell you that one.”

Although Zeil was annoyed the zebra didn’t explain it further, he was used to getting only half answers from this zebra as he replied with an annoyed tone, “Fine… so to sum it up, you’re an enchanter who used dark magic. But… for good… right?”
The mage nodded, “Yes… I am the only enchanter who is accepted to use such magic… however, upon becoming a mage I was banished from Zebrica as is the custom. To maintain the balance, I cannot be amongst those who could sway me to the light. Or so they say… honestly, I think they feel uneasy around me and need a reason to get rid of me.”
Zeil continued, “So… Mage… how do you know me so well?”
The mage smiled, “I know you, more then you even know yourself. After all, you’re just that predictable.”
Feeling a slight hostility in his tone, Zeil replied, “Really? Somehow I doubt that.”

Smiling in a smug way, the mage continued, “Is that so… You were hatch a changeling in the land of the black sand to Queen Chrysalis and her former king. As a grub, you witnessed the fall of the Marble Oasis and when your queen felt there was no surviving there anymore, she and her swarm set out to seek a new hive, and a new home.”
Zeil tried to act unamused as the Zebra looked down to the potion and continued, “After a number of years of traveling, she finally found a place to establish her Changeling Kingdom, in a land just outside of Equestria. And though she found a place, she feared for her hives continued food source, so she decided to set her sights on the large pony kingdom. Then… who to volunteer in infiltrating that kingdom, then her most loyal of drones…” He shifted his eyes up from the cauldron and continued with a hostile tone, “You…”
Feeling uneasy, Zeil replied, “Alright… so wh-”
The mage interrupted with a tone that seemed like an accusation of guilt, “You graciously volunteered to enter the kingdom, fool the poor ponies who thought themselves safe, then seek out an opportunity to sneak your queen into their homes. And all to steal… what they cherished most.”

Hearing the hostility angered Zeil as he replied, “I followed my orders, as was my du-“
The zebra interrupted again, “You went in and tried to steal the most precious from those good and innocent ponies who did you no harm. That attack wouldn’t have happened if not for your perfidious nature to act like a pony then stab them in the back… some of them quite literally.”
Zeil became angry as he held his silence as the Zebra continued, “Then… despite all the loyal effort you placed in your queen. She failed you… and the resulting action from her failer sent you tumbling through the Everfree Forest sheering away every bit of dignity you had left while also removing your wing in the process.”

Zeil was starting to get even more angrier as he shifted his eyes to the dagger in the ground, then back at the mage as the elderly zebra continued after adding a smug smile to his face, “You lost it all… then… like your kind are known for… you sought another opportunity to take advantage of another innocent soul. You played the wounded zebra to the one mare who didn’t know what was happening in Canterlot. You lied as she welcomed you into her home and treated your wounds. Then you continued to toy with her heart as if it were your clueless little plaything, like putty in your hooves, am I right?”
Zeil became enraged as he tried to reply calmly, “Shut up…”
The Zebra continued, “You played with her emotions… you manipulated her actions and who knows what you would do to her if you had stayed.”
Zeil replied with anger, “I loved her… I wouldn’t have done anything to hurt he-“
“Funny way of showing it!… you never even told her the truth. If you truly loved her, you would have at least done that mu-“
“SHUT UP!!!”

Zeil’s words echoed into the forest as the enraged changeling stood from his seat and glared at the zebra in anger as the mage smiled, “Oh… and why should I?”
Zeil breathed deeply in his anger as he tried to calm himself down as the zebra chuckled, “Well… looks like my spell worked then… Good, we don’t need that pesky darkness within you getting involved.”
Still angry but confused, Zeil replied, “What? What are you talking about?”
The zebra smiled, “The night before last in that tavern, I placed three spells on you. The first was a simple sleep sedative, not really a spell at all if you ask me. The second was an invisibility spell meant to make you invisible for about five hours, enough time to elude the creatures that attacked the tavern that night. And the third was something unique, something that would only pertain to those like you and me. It was a spell meant to neutralize and subdue your darkness.”
Zeil calmed down as he replied, “What?”

The zebra gestured to the dagger in the grass as he spoke. “You knew that weapon was there the whole time and yet despite how enraged I made you… you didn’t go for it even once. Back at the Mc Holt Clan Loach the shire you faced only mention Zecora, and you nearly killed him on the spot. If the darkness still had a hold on you, you would have gone for that dagger and then for my throat. Not that it would have worked… I’m not so easy to kill. Needless to say I released you temporarily from the control of your other self, so you will have complete control of your anger until it is deemed time to… deal with him again.”

Zeil was shocked that the zebra was right. Even now that he had a few seconds to calm down, Zeil’s hooves were still trembling in anger at the zebra’s words, but he didn’t even reach for the weapon. He looked at it briefly, but didn’t even attempt to plan a method of attack on the mage in front of him. Zeil could only look at the mage in complete confusion, as the mage smiled and continued stirring the potion, “Despite that though, I apologies for my words… I simply had to be sure. I understand you loved that mare, and I feel it was an injustice that you were casted so far from her before even getting the chance to tell her the truth. But don’t worry, you continue on this path and you will see her again, but your decisions along that said path can decide how this story truly ends. Happily or tragically… though nowadays… I can’t tell the difference between the two anymore.”
Zeil felt uneasy, the Zebra knew everything about him, even things that others who knew his story didn’t know. Feeling nervous, Zeil started to ask, “How do you kn-”

At that moment, Zeil’s words were silenced as a loud popping sound came from the cauldron of boiling potion followed closely by a long hissing sound. As the sound was heard the zebra looked back to the potion and smiled, “Good, time to add the last ingredient for the night.”
With that, the zebra reached for the small vial that was hanging around his neck as he removed the small bottle from the cord it was hanging from before looking into the red contents that could be seen through the glass container. As he looked into the liquid, a strange but deep feeling of sadness befell the Zebra mage as Zeil felt confused by the aura. With a heavy sigh the zebra continued looking into the vial as he mumbled quietly, “Till death do us part… and beyond.”
Although the mage said those words quietly, Zeil still managed to hear them clearly as the mage preceded to pull the cork from the vial and poured the dark red liquid into the brew.

Though Zeil was clueless as to what the red liquid was, it soon became clear as the potion slowly emitted a thick red smoke as Zeil looked to the zebra and spoke, “Blood?...”
The mage ignored Zeil as he took a step back from the potion as a large mushroom shaped puff of smoke barreled out of the cauldron as the red spoke gathered about ten feet over the brew before slowly taking a more distinct shape. Slowly Zeil watched in awe as the large cloud of red smoke slowly took a form with large bat like wings and a slender lizard like body as Zeil mumbled, “It’s a blood dragon?”
When the form was complete, the smoke made dragon opened up its wings as it quickly darted down towards the mage before rapidly banking around as it circled the entirety of the campsite. Zeil watched in amazement as the smoke made dragon circled the camp a few more times before flying towards the mage, stopping right in front of him, and hovering in the air as the zebra and the dragon made perfect eye contact. As the apparition hovered before the mage, Zeil felt something odd. The Dragon, though made entirely out of smoke gave off a very faint aura. The aura was too faint to identify its species, but there was something very familiar about it, as if Zeil had felt that same aura before.

As Zeil tried to figure out where he had felt the aura before, the dragon gave the mage a concerned look as the mage replied, “You don’t like it… I know, but it has to be done.”
The dragon looked down with a conflicted stare as the mage nodded, “It’s alright, I already came to peace with this… We both have and… I’m ready to join you.”
The dragon looked back at the mage with an unhappy nod as he spoke once more, “We always knew it would come to this… but it’s not in our hooves anymore… It’s in his.”
The mage gestured towards Zeil as the dragon looked at the clueless changeling before looking back at the zebra and nodding in agreement. Then the mage spoke to the dragon one last time, “Go… I’ll see you soon.”
With that the dragon thrusted itself upward one last time as it flew strait up before doing a backflip and diving back into the potion as the smoke made creature vanished into the brew. As soon as the smoke vanished, the boiling brew turned from its groggy red color to a milky white. After the potion finished changing color the mage pulled the cauldron from over the fire as he sat it aside to cool.

With the zebra setting up his seemingly finished potion, Zeil asked, “That ingredient you added… that was blood wasn’t it?”
The Zebra nodded, “It was… good to know that Cunningham taught you about blood sacrifices.”
Zeil continued, “Whose blood was it?”
The mage replied, “Whose did it feel like? You felt its aura didn’t you? What did you feel?”
Zeil replied, “I don’t know… I sensed it, but… I can’t tell who, or what it was? But I could tell just by both your and its emotions… that is was someone close to you.”
The mage nodded, “Yes... that was the blood of a deceased zebra mare… just as the spell called for. The blood… of my wife.”

Zeil could feel a sad emotion in the mage as he spoke, “Your wife… How did she die?”
The Zebra’s dark aura started to return as he replied with a slightly hostile tone, “I didn’t kill her if that is what you assume.”
Feeling a demonic aura fill the air, Zeil immediately felt nervous as he replied, “N-no I didn’t mean it by that… I was just curious… you said the blood was from a deceased zebra, I didn’t mean anything by it.”
Noticing Zeil’s worry, the mage nodded as he replied, “Sorry… she passed about three months ago by natural causes… and the wound is still fresh. I doubt my heart will ever heal. At least, not until I finish here.”

The mage pulled a glass cone-shaped flask from his saddlebag as Zeil replied to his explanation, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to-”
The mage interrupted as he opened the small pointed vial, “Its fine… you’re not the only one who has trouble controlling your emotions. Sometimes, I loose myself too.”
With the flask opened, the zebra rubbed his hoof around the rim of the now cooled cauldron, then made the same action around the rim of the flask as the white milky potion magically filled the cone shaped vial from the bottom to its top. Curious Zeil asked, “Okay… so… a blood sacrifice for this spell… what does the spell do?”
The Zebra replied as he closed the flask, “That, I cannot say, not till it’s finished. It still requires one more ingredient.”
Zeil asked, “Really? What ingredient?”

The mage put away the potion into his saddlebag as he replied, “It isn’t your place to know… that is… not yet. But on that subject…” He gave Zeil a serious look as he pulled a strange brown package from his saddlebag and laid it on the ground, “Zeil… I am the Mage of Zebrica. There is only one mage every generation and in order for one to become a mage he must have darkness within him, and must be chosen by the previous mage. I was chosen by the mage before me, as was his before him… and as the cycle continues… I… shall choose you.”
Zeil was shocked, “Wh-what?”
The mage replied with a smile, “Congratulations Zeil of the Black Sand… I have chosen you, to become the next mage of Zebrica.”
Zeil didn’t know what to say as he replied, “Wh-why me?”
The mage and replied as he unwrapped the package to reveal a leather bound spell book as he replied, “Because I need your help to destroy the one responsible for breaking a law of magic. This book, Holds the very spells that only a mage can perform. And this earth pony disgraced its very legacy. So… I’m going to need your help to continue the cycle and bring an end to this creature’s miserable life. For once his life ends, so will mine.”

Bk6/Ch3 The Fate of Darkness

Book 6/Chapter 3
The Fate of Darkness
Year 04, Month 01, Day 08

Zeil sat quietly as he stared into the campfire in worry. With his mind centered on his situation, Zeil looked to the sleeping mage as the dark enchanter slept peacefully in the one pony tent. Confused as to how the mage could sleep so soundly, Zeil looked back to the empty cauldron as he remembered the conversation before the mage went to sleep. With his surrounding silent, Zeil could hear the words echo through his mind when he replied to his being chosen, “You want to train me to become the mage of Zebrica?”
The mage replied, “No… I can only choose you, the one to train you must be an enchanter of light. That is who you must seek out to become the mage.”
“Seek him out? Who? And where?”
“Zebrica.”
Zeil was confused, “Zebrica?”
The mage nodded, “Yes, once you get to Zebrica you mu-“
“No...”

The mage gave him a curious look, “Oh? And why not?”
Zeil replied, “If I continue west, I’ll eventually hit the coast in a few months. From there I only need to cross the sea to reach Equestria. If I wanted to go to Zebrica I’d need to go south from the coast, which is out of my way. I’m sorry, but I can’t go to Zebrica.”
The mage nodded, “I see… but I’m sure you will change your mind soon.”
Zeil was curious, “What makes you so sure?”
The mage replied, “Let’s just say, things will become clearer as the truth is revealed. For now… I’m tired and these old bones need rest.”
The mage trotted to his tent as he spoke, “Feel free to try reading that book if you want. You couldn’t understand it anyways.”

Curious Zeil looked at the book as he realized the cover didn’t have any legible letters on it, instead it has a strange row of lines, dashes, circles, dots, and shapes that didn’t resemble any form of literature in any language. As Zeil picked up the book he asked, “What is this written in?”
The mage replied as he laid down, “It’s no language… it is actually a spell. Only a mage can read it, and even if you tried deciphering the text into a legible language the symbols would change place to make it impossible to read. That’s the power of the Tome of the Mage. Just… be careful with it… once I’m gone… it will need to remain in your care.”
With that the mage laid down and fell asleep.

After remembering everything that happened earlier, Zeil decided to pick up the book a second time as he examined the cover closely. The book was leather-bound, and it was obvious that the leather wasn’t artificial, meaning that he was holding the flesh of another in his hooves. And if that didn’t make it eerie as is, as Zeil held the book, he could see something odd happening to the symbols on the cover. Slowly, the symbols seemed to move about the face of the book’s cover until they finally merged to create legible letters that spelled, “Tome of the Mage.”
As Zeil saw this, he became curious as he opened the book and started looking through the pages, however, every page he flipped through held a mix and match of symbols and lines that looked like the cover before its translation. As Zeil looked closely at each page, he hoped the symbols would merge to create text, however this didn’t happen as he found each and every page of the forbidden spell book to be unreadable. With this, Zeil closed the book as he laid it down on the ground and mumbled, “So it’s true, this book can’t be read… I wonder what spells this book must hold for it to keep others from reading its pages.”

As Zeil looked at the book, he heard a strange noise come from a nearby bush as he immediately looked up at the bush and braced himself. Though whatever it was didn’t make itself known, Zeil could sense the aura of the beast as he slowly backed towards the mage and spoke calmly, “Um… Mage?...”
The mage didn’t react as if he had just woken up, instead he sat up as if he were awake the entire time as he spoke, “Good… its time then.”
Zeil gave him a confused look, “Time?... time for what?”
The mage didn’t reply, instead he only sat up as he put on his saddlebag and cloak before calling out, “Come out beasts!!! I know your there and I know why you’re here!”
With that, as if they were following his order, a large number of the brainless feral griffin slowly emerged from their hiding places as Zeil realized that he wasn’t just sensing one, he was sensing almost a dozen as they approached the camp, leaving nowhere to run.

As Zeil saw the large number of griffin, he felt confused, their aura was still an earth pony, and their emotions still seemed to be the unbridled pain and misery as they always had, but their physical expression wasn’t one of anger like before. In fact their expressions seemed plain, as if they had no real interest in their visible prey what so ever. It was like the expression of a cow seeing something happening near it, but had no interest in what it was doing, or why. As Zeil looked at the strange expression on the creature’s faces, he spoke, “Mage… something is different… I don’t know what… but they aren’t acting like the others we saw before.”
The mage nodded as he replied, “Your right… they aren’t hunting for prey… They are hunting for us.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
The mage explained, “The one pulling the strings can see and hear everything that his creations see. And it looks like he got my message.”

Zeil was confused, but remembered the last time they saw one of these creatures as he spoke, “You mean… that threat you gave that one?”
The mage shook his head, “Not a threat… and invitation. Looks like he got it.”
As the two stared at the creatures that surrounded them, the mindless griffin slowly made an opening in their formation as the mage saw this and continued, “And it looks like they want us to follow them.”
Zeil asked, “Should we?”
The mage approached the book as he put it into his saddlebag and replied, “It’d be rude not to… besides… we need to deal with this quickly.”

With no hesitation in his step, the mage put the hood of his worn cloak over his head as he looked at the creature closest to them and spoke, “If you want to speak with me… Then lead on, Just know that the changeling here is with me, so where I go… he follows. Got it?”
Though the creature he looked at showed no expression that confirmed his understanding, it still turned to the open path and began leading the way, as the mage nodded, “I’ll take that as an okay.”
As the mage started to follow, Zeil felt that if he wanted to survive he would have to follow so he too put the hood on his cloak up and mumbled, “Well… here goes nothing…”

The two enchanters followed as the griffin led them away from the camp until they reached the torched lit road and began trotting towards the village. As they continued, Zeil looked to the sky to try and guess the time of day, but with the thick canopies above, it was impossible to see the sky as the mage spoke, “Its around midnight…”
Zeil looked at the mage as he replied, “Really? How do you know?”
The mage replied, “Trust me… I could never forget a sunrise like that.”
Zeil replied in confusion, “Sunrise?”
The mage replied without looking at him, “Only after one sees true darkness, will he come to appreciate the light, even if… it lay outside his reach.”
Zeil gave the mage a confused look but before he could reply, the mage pointed forward, “Look there.”
As the two looked up the torch lit road, they could see it enter the Pergola Village. And lining the sides of the streets as if they were a crowd awaiting a parade were the residences of the village, each with charred colored coats and lifeless ruby eyes.

Shocked at what he saw, Zeil spoke, “The residents… are they?”
The mage nodded, “Yea… he turned them all into these creatures. Now… this village is no more than a ghost town, of mindless ghouls.”
As the two continued through the village Zeil looked up the row of beasts as he not only noticed griffin cubs amongst them, but he even saw one with an axe embedded in his head as he remembered the incident at the tavern. Remembering that night, Zeil looked at the mage, “Did… did you know this was going to happen? The whole time?”
Zeil looked at the mage as he continued without while looking forward, “Yes…”
Zeil asked, “And you didn’t stop it?”
The mage shook his head, “No… didn’t even try.”
Zeil gave the mage an angry look, “You let this happen without even trying to stop it? Why?”
The mage replied with a serious but somewhat disappointed tone, “Because I can’t change anything… even if I wanted to.”
Zeil replied with a confused but angry tone, “What? Why?”

The mage didn’t reply, instead he stopped trotting as he glared down the road at their destination ahead. Curious, Zeil looked forward to see the rows of feral griffin trailing off the main road, to a simple chapel that sat between two tall canopied trees. Like most sanctuaries, the building was tall and rectangular with a roof shaped like a triangle and a small bell tower on the front over the main doors. As Zeil climbed the small staircase leading to the double doors of the chapel, the mage spoke, “Zeil… Take note of everything that happened from now until my death.”
Zeil looked at the mage, “What?”
The mage replied with a serious but dark tone, “Every little detail of the next few minutes, no matter how trivial it may seem… Remember it, carve it into your mind so that you will never forget… No matter how terrifying it may become… Never forget… what I’ll do to him.”

As the mage said these words, Zeil started to feel the darkness of the mage’s aura resurface as the very presence told him that even if he tried, what he was about to see would stick with him for life. Knowing this Zeil decided to press on as the leading feral griffin approached the double doors of the chapel, opened the doors and held them open till both Zeil and the mage entered the building. As the two enchanters entered the structure, Zeil did what he was told as he observed the room closely. Like all chapels this too had a long room with pews lining a walkway that lead strait to an alter at the far end of the room. Lighting the room was a series of candelabras that sat beside every other pew that lined the aisle making the room full of undead griffin sitting in each pew visible through the darkness of the forest and night. Although the room was full of the feral griffin beasts, this didn’t catch Zeil’s full attention as he looked straight down the aisle to the large statue of an unidentifiable alicorn and the earth pony standing before it looking at the stone image.

As Zeil looked at the earth pony who was facing away from the two enchanters, he and the mage continued down the aisle across the marble floor before stopping a few pews away from the alter as the mage gave the lone pony an angry look. The pony seemed harmless, with his coal colored coat, grey mane and peaceful expression, but as Zeil felt his aura he was confused. The earth pony seemed to be at peace as he sat praying to the statue with his eyes closed, but his aura was extremely faint, as if Zeil were looking at an image through fog. Confused, Zeil continued to watch as the earth pony spoke as he opened his solid black eyes and looked upon the statue, “The Queen of Eden… The benevolent deity who is responsible for creating all pony and griffin life in this world. But now… I have surpassed the likes of her.” He smiled, “Now… I am god!”
With a careless action, the earth pony waved his hoof upwards as a water made blade flew upward slicing the statue in half as the power of his attack caused the statue to crumble, leaving only the marble pedestal standing as the earth pony turned to his guest and held up his damp hoof, “Impressed? All I had to do was see your water magic spell once when you decapitated one of my creations, and now, I made it my own.”

As the earth pony looked upon the two enchanters, Zeil could only feel sickened by his pitch black eyes that held no such color in them, no white, no irises, and no pupils. As the earth pony looked at the two he focused on the mage as he smiled, “I have been waiting to meet you. By chance, are you the Mage of Zebrica?”
The mage nodded and replied with a casual tone, “I am.”
The earth pony continued as he bowed, “Then it is an honor to meet you in person. My name in Xemnes I’ve read so much about you, and had I known that there was a living mage at this time, I most likely would have sought you out. But to have you seek me instead, I’m flattered.”
The mage replied, “We will see.”
Sensing the mood of the room, the earth pony smiled as he gestured to one of the many mindless griffin sitting in the pews, “So… what do you think? Do you like my work? I’ve studied for so long but I think I’ve finally mastered this craft and as a messenger for all darkness, I would like to hear what you think of my skills.”

The mage replied while holding his careless expression, “You want to know what I think?”
Xemnes nodded, “Oh yes very much. After all… I did this to prove a point.”
The mage replied with a less then curious tone, “Really? And what point is that?”
The earth pony smiled as he sat down and looked at his hoof, “I didn’t ask to be an earth pony… in fact I wanted to be a unicorn… an enchanter like them… but… they made fun of me. Said I was delusional and was wasting my time. Then, I heard an interesting story. I heard that an earth pony from a faraway kingdom somehow gained the ability to fly like a pegasus. So I wondered, if an earth pony could do something as crazy as fly, then why can’t he cast spells? So I studied, and did research, and found out that there was a way to use magic without an, oh so precious unicorn horn. The zebra had been doing it for centuries so I decided to study it, herbalism, hermeticism, alchemy, and more recently… necromancy. And now look at what I can do? I took one of the most forbidden spells with the most annoying penalty and made it one hundred percent safe. Now, we can bring back the dead all we want and not have to worry about our lives. By trapping them within the void between life and death, they have become immortal so now, we don’t have to worry for their safety. We can bring back all who die, and with that, remove the fear of death all together. So… what do you think?”

The mage gave him an unamused look before looking at one of the mindless griffin sitting in the pews. After a brief hesitation the mage looked back to Xemnes as he replied, “I won’t talk in the presence of these… things.”
Xemnes smiled, “Do not worry of their judgment. In their presence, your words will fall upon deaf ears. They know nothing of what they hear unless it is an order from their master.”
The mage replied with a serious tone, “Deaf or not… they are not worthy of hearing what I have to say.”
Xemnes gave the mage a confused look, but after a short period of silence he smiled and nodded as if he understood, “Ah I see, peons shouldn’t need to know of his masters opinions of them. I understand completely, so I will take this time to demonstrate their obedience.” He looked over the room and called, “Leave us!”
Although they showed no expression that said they understood, the mindless feral griffin still stood from the pews as they filed out of the chapel and made their way out of the building. As they left the room, one griffin that was walking by Zeil accidently bumped one of the candelabras as the tall source of light fell to the ground leaving the candles on the ground. Ignoring the knocked over furniture, the griffin continued to file out of the room until the last one left closing the two double doors behind him.

Once the door was shut, the mage turned his attention back to Xemnes as the earth pony spoke, “Incredible aren’t they… obedient to a fault. Now we can discuss this properly, unless you wish to dismiss your friend as well.”
The mage shook his head, “No, Zeil here is my assistant so what I have to say should pertain to him as well.”
Xemnes nodded, “Very well, now as you were saying, regarding my creations?”
The mage nodded, as he chuckled, “What do you want me to say? You altered a spell for your own amusement, so tell me… what do you think my opinion would be?”
Xemnes smiled, “Why, I would think you’d be impressed to my ingenuity. To remove the limitations of a curse so foul, it’s something that only a true mage could accomplish… not that… I am a mage per say, but I do fit the qualities do I not? So… well… I’ll just ask right out. In order for one such as I to become the mage of Zebrica, I must have a sense of darkness within me, and I must be selected by the previous mage… so… I wish to request.” He bowed his head slightly, “I would be honored, if you’d choose me to become the next mage of Zebrica?”

As Zeil gave the hopeful earth pony a surprised look, he started to hear a strange scratching sound behind him as he looked to see something that made him worry. When Zeil looked at the double doors to the chapel, he could see a number of black vine growing from the ground as they weaved across the doorway covering the white painted entryway and bracing both doors shut so that none could enter… or exit. After seeing this, Zeil looked back at Xemnes as he saw that the earth pony was too enraptured by the mage’s visit to notice the vines as the mage replied with a chuckle, “So let me get this straight… You want me to choose you as the next Mage of Zebrica?”
The hopeful earth pony rose from his bow and nodded, “Yes, very much so.”
The mage sighed with disappointment before replying, “Sadly, I cannot.”
Xemnes was concerned, “Oh? But… why? Haven’t I proven myself worthy of such a tittle?”

The mage shook his head as he spoke, “In order for one to become the Mage of Zebrica, one must hold darkness within himself, and be chosen by the current mage. However the darkness that must be held can only be held by one. So once that one is chosen, no others can be. You see, Zeil here has already been chosen to become the next mage of Zebrica. Therefore, until his time to choose the next arises, no others can become the mage.”
Xemnes gave Zeil an angry look as he replied, “Really, then how about this.” He pointed to Zeil, “Zeil! I challenge you to a duel to the death! The winner will become the next Mage of Zebrica, but the loser… Will die here and now!”

At that moment, Zeil started to feel a great threat of impending death arise not from the threatening earth pony but instead from the mage as Zeil looked to the mage as he saw something that truly terrified him. As the mage stood giving Xemnes an angry look, the fallen candles that were on the ground casted the mages shadow across the wall and ceiling on the other side of the room, but it wasn’t a zebra’s shadow that Zeil saw, instead it was a large beast-like creature that greatly reminded Zeil of the dark beast that he felt when he first met the dark enchanter. Though the size and details of the beast were hard to make out through the shadow’s angle, it was obvious that it stood much taller than its zebra host, and held the same appearance as a normal Minotaur to include a large muscular torso, coiled horns, muscular arms, and large fists with claws at the end of each finger. Nervous from both the shadow and aura, Zeil stepped back from the mage and looked back to Xemnes as determined pony looked at the mage and spoke without noticing what made Zeil nervous, “Is that aright with you mage? If I kill this contemptible zebra here, will you reconsider your decision and cho-”

All of a sudden a black vine that the zebra had control over jettisoned from the alicorn statue’s remaining pedestal as wrapped around Xemnes’s neck before pulling him back and pining him to the marble structure. Feeling shock from his unexpected assault, Xemnes reached up and gripped the vine that choked him as he spoke through the shock, “B-but… why?...”
The mage spoke with a tone that sent chills up Zeil’s spine as he replied with anger, “You want to become the mage so badly? First explain yourself… Explain what you did to insult this spell so willingly. Tell me who you tested this spell on before turning it onto the village. Tell me how you killed your wife, and tried to bring her back, only to fail when the spell didn’t work. Then, explain how you felt when you did the same to your daughter, killed her, and then brought her back as one of those abominations that even dark magic would refuse to claim. Did you feel pride? Doing that to your own family?”
As the mage spoke, more of his vines began growing beside him and weaved into a wooden spear as he continued, “Yes… I know you, Xemnes. You’re the type of pony who gives us mages a bad name. You’re willing to bring the world to flame, just to prove that it can burn and expect praise in return. To kill any and every pony you want just to show off your skills, like a spoiled little colt wanting approval from his mother.”

The pinned Xemnes reached into the pocked of his cloak as he replied, “I… I thought you were different… I thought you would appreciate the artistry that was my magic. But I was wrong… you’re just like the rest… YOU’RE JUST A FOOL!!!”
With that, that yell, the pinned earth pony pulled out a vial of an unknown liquid and slammed it against the pedestal as he brought up his now wet hoof in an attempt to use the substance as a liquid blade to cut down the mage just as he did the alicorn statue moments ago. However after bringing his arm across his body, the mage quickly grabbed his newly acquired weapon as he reared back and threw it with great accuracy as the projectile flew towards Xemnes as the lethal projectile pierced Xemnes’s raised hoof and buried into his chest nailing his hoof to his body, stopping his attack, and vitally wounding him all in one go.

Horrified by everything that was happening around him, Zeil stared at the mage as the mage spoke in anger, “No… you’re the fool. To become a mage one must have Darkness within him but that’s not an analogy. To become the mage you must have a very specific sense of darkness, a presence that can only be held within his creations. But you, you were created by an alicorn, so you can never hold such darkness. Don’t worry though, if it makes you feel any better, you won’t be completely useless.”
Xemnes tried all he could to breathe through his wound, but with his breaths short, it could only be assumed that the piercing wound hit a lung as the blood from that same wound ran down the angle of the spear and puddled on the marble floor beneath him. As this happened, mage reached into his saddlebag as he pulled out a strange maroon cube that looked to be made of a type of clay. As he held up the strange cube, the mage glared at the dying earth pony as he spoke, “Here… you know what to do.”

At first Zeil thought the mage was talking to him, however before he could reply, the mage’s shadow reacted first. At that moment, the demon like shadow reached out towards the dying earth pony and opened his palm as the tip of the claw on his index finger reached forward then elegantly placed itself into the center of the puddle of blood that sat on the floor beneath Xemnes as a ripple appeared as if the shadow were actually interacting with the liquid. Curious, but at the same time terrified, Zeil watched as the shadow then ran his long claw towards the mage while loud screeching sound was heard as the shadow’s claw cut into the marble leaving the blood to run down the alter, drip down the single step and run across the floor following the small canal that the shadow’s claw was cutting into the floor. With the blood following the path so easily, it wasn’t long before the shadow stopped just beneath the mage’s hooves as the mage looked down at funneling blood and smiled, “Thank you.”

That said, the shadow seemed to turned back to the zebra’s normal shadow as the mage preceded to dip the small cube into the blood, then he tossed the cube into his mouth and started chewing the item like it were a snack. Seeing the mage cringe under the hood of his cloak at what was obviously a terrible taste, Zeil could only feel confused as the gasping Xemnes smiled through his pain, “That… spell… is… is that?...” His smile faded, “No… I won’t be used… like this… Kill… them… KILL THEM ALL!”
Shortly after Xemnes’s yelled command, sounds of banging and clawing was heard from the double doors of the chapel, as Zeil looked to the doors and realized that the undead griffin outside were reacting to the order as they all started clawing at the doors in an attempt to get inside. The mage finished chewing the small cube as he swallowed it and stood silent for a few seconds as he ignored the obvious danger that the two were in.

As the creatures bashed on the doors causing them to rock back and forth with the black vines holding them shut, Zeil spoke, “That won’t hold them long… what do we do?”
The mage shook his head as he spoke with a calm and casual tone, “They are no threat, not now that their master is my puppet.”
Zeil looked back at the mage as he started to reply, “Puppet? What ar-“
All of a sudden, Zeil silenced himself as he saw the mage’s irises in his eyes change from their faded green, to a blood red. When the zebra noticed Zeil’s silence, he replied, “The capture spell, now… his every fiber is under my control… even if he doesn’t know it yet.”

With a careless expression, the Zebrican Mage trotted towards the pinned and dying earth pony as the weakened enchanter glared at his new foe and spoke between his gasps for air, “Y-you… you’re not the stallion… I thought you were… you’re just a hypocrite. I hold dark magic… but you shun me for what I am?… fine… then consider this… I gave my last order… to kill them all. You know what that… means?... it means… that my creations… will come in here… and rip you two apart… then… after I die, they will seek out any… other living creatures they can find. They will kill… everything on this… world… then… they will convert the dead… and triple there numbers within days… Before you know it, they will have consumed the entire world… making the dark alicorn’s attack seem like foals at play. And you… you are responsible. You and your chosen mage… will go down in history as the zebra that ended the wo-“
“Shut your mouth…”

Although the zebra’s tone didn’t seem even the least hostile, intimidating, or angry in any way, Xemnes still strangely silenced himself by closing his mouth like he was told, however it wasn’t as if he silenced himself naturally, instead he only closed his mouth and still muffled as if he were trying to talk through his closed lips. Confused, Xemnes looked around trying to see what was holding his mouth shut, but when he saw that nothing was there, he looked at the approaching mage as the dark enchanter spoke, “Who do you think you are? First, you have the gull to attempt one of the most forbidden spells in all zebra kind, then you try to allude its laws by tormenting the very beings that you try to return to life bringing them into a point that is worse than a death after death. Then you dare wish for praise for this debauchery that you’ve let loose on the world? Your no enchanter… just a sick soul lost in his own greed. Your black eyes are proof of your weakness alone. You’ve surrendered to the darkness as if it were meant to cradle you… but it isn’t. It’s not always bad… but it can be cruel and evil… here let me show you.”

The mage reached back and punched the platform that Xemnes was pinned against as a large cluster of thin black vines grew from around his hoof as the hundreds of very thin vines grew out and spread across the statue’s pedestal as they quickly covered every inch of the statue-less base. Terrified but still unable to open his mouth, Xemnes screamed with a muffled shout as the vines quickly covered his entire body before stopping leaving only his head visible and the rest of him and the pedestal covered with the black plants. As soon as the vines stopped growing Xemnes breathed rapidly with both his wound and his fear as the mage spoke, “Calm yourself and don’t feel any further pain.”
Strangely, Xemnes’s breathing slowed as he seemed to calm down almost immediately as the mage noticed this and smiled, “There… now you can speak if you want, but carful of your next words… They will be your last.”

With no concern, the mage turned around and started trotting away from Xemnes as the confused earth pony opened his mouth and spoke, “Wh-what… are you?...”
The mage stopped trotting when he was standing beside Zeil yet again as he turned back to his victim and spoke with anger in his tone, “I am the Mage of Zebrica… and those were wasted last words.”
That said, the mage pulled out the small cone shaped vial from the night before as he replied with a commanding tone, “Xemnes! Hear my words clearly!” He pulled the cork from the vial’s opening as he held it up and spoke, “Xemnes! Surrender thyn self and soul. Unit it with this potion so that I may use it to bring death to all of whom are meant. This order I make… as the Mage of Zebrica! FINISH THIS CURSE!!!”

With that call, the mage stomped his hoof against the ground as the area momentarily went silent. Confused Zeil looked at the mage as he started to speak, “What was th-“
Before he could finish, Zeil felt a sudden spike in Xemnes’s emotions as he quickly looked at the trapped enchanter while the dying pony looked to the ceiling as if his head was being pulled to the sky. As Xemnes looked up, his pitch black eyes started to glow a bright white as a cloudy apparition slowly emerged from his eyes similar to the red glow of the creatures when they brought others back from the dead, but this apparition held the very aura of the earth pony leaving behind what seemed to be an empty husk. As the fog like silhouette hovered over the area, it slowly flew towards the mage until circling the opened vial of potion then entering the cone shaped flask as the mage quickly closed the vial behind it.

As the aura of the earth pony vanished into the small flask, the potion inside turned from its milky white to a pitch black, as Zeil could only stare at the mage in shock as the mage smiled, “There… now… we can end this.”
All of a sudden a cracking sound was heard towards the chapel’s double doors as Zeil looked to see that chips of the doors were falling off as the claws of the beasts outside were starting to dig through the entrance as he spoke in worry, “Um… Mage?”
The mage turned to look at the double doors as he nodded, “Don’t worry… I only need one.”
The mage preceded to lay the cone shaped flask on the ground in front of him as vines grew from ground beneath him as they slowly weaved around the small flask, as the cone shaped glass vial was lifted from the ground as the vines started to resemble a staff making the pointed flask resemble a spear’s blade.

As the newly made spear continued to grow in length, the mage spoke, “Zeil… I hope you remember everything that happened here… Remember… nothing can change, even if you want it to.”
Zeil was confused, “Change?”
The mage shook his head and smiled, “Never mind… In my saddlebag I have a few items for the rest of your journey… including a letter with information you need to know about becoming the mage. When this is over… take them with you. I have no need for them where I’m going. And… since this is the last I can speak with you…” his smile turned peaceful, “Take care of her for us.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
At that moment, a smaller griffin managed to squeeze himself through the damaged double doors as he charged at the two with a mindless veracity. When Zeil saw the danger, he took a step back as the Mage grabbed the newly formed spear as he lunged forward, digging the glass blade into the griffin’s chest stopping him in place. Then with the spear embedded, the mage flung the mindless beast over his head as he slammed the monster down on the ground with enough force to shatter the unseen spear blade leaving the black potion to course through the griffin’s body as the griffin seemed to react to the potion as if it could actually feel pain.

As the griffin beast jerked his body in spasms of agony, the mage released the spear as he back against the side of the pews as he fell to the ground as if he were suddenly weakened by an unknown force. Confused Zeil rushed to his side while the mage’s blood red eyes turned back to their pale green as he looked up at Zeil and smiled, “There… now, there is no reason to worry. The creatures will die… and… I can rejoin my love.”
Zeil was confused as he spoke, “What? What are you saying? That creature felt that potion… he reacted to the pain… but how? I thought they couldn’t feel pain. And… What’s happening to you? Your aura… it’s fading.”
The mage smiled, “All part of the plan my friend… the letter will explain it all… just… remember what I said. Nothing can change.”
Zeil was confused, “Wh-what?”
The mage didn’t reply, instead he looked at the ceiling as he smiled, “My time is finally done… my journey… at its end… I’m coming home… Zec-”
Before he could finish his last words, the mage’s aura slowly faded away entirely, as his breathing stopped and he passed away with a smile still on his now lifeless face.

When the zebra’s aura vanished, Zeil started hearing shrieking sound coming from the feral griffin that was still in the chapel with them. As Zeil looked to the flailing creature, the feral griffin struggled through its pain before the beast stopped moving then dissolved into a pile of ash on the floor. As Zeil looked at the remains of the creature, he could only feel complete confusion at what he had witnessed. However as he did he heard the door to the room shatter open as the rest of the feral beast outside charged into the chapel and headed straight for him with obvious intent to kill. Seeing the incoming threat, Zeil picked up what remains of the mages shattered spear and readied himself for a fight. But as the creatures got close enough to attack, Zeil swung the staff with all his might as the bladeless weapon passed completely through the closest target as all the feral griffin dissolved into a large clump of ash that colligated with Zeil causing him to fall to the ground from the dust’s impact. Confused, Zeil wiped the dust from his face and picked himself up to ready himself, but as he looked around for the charging foe, all he saw was an empty dust filled chapel.

As Zeil looked around in confusion, the sounds of vicious roars, claws scratching against wood, and monstrous rustling of hundreds of feral griffin seemed to vanish into the night air as the area around him became silent as the grave. Worried it was a trick, Zeil tried to sense any living creature in the area, however, all the earth pony auras enveloping the creatures were gone, leaving nothing in the area, but the lone changeling enchanter. When he assumed himself safe, Zeil quickly rushed back to the mage to check on him, but as he looked upon the lifeless Zebra, he already knew that the elderly stallion was gone. Although he didn’t know the mage very well, nor did he even trust the dark enchanter, he still felt somewhat sympathetic as he closed the mages still open eyes and smiled, “You did what you set out to do, and now you’re with you wife again mage… Rest in peace.”
Although he felt a little guilty, Zeil knew that whatever was in the old stallion’s saddlebag was already given to him as he removed the saddlebag from under the zebra’s cloak and looked through the items. Along with the spell book, Zeil saw an assortment of common ingredients and potions, and an envelope at the very bottom as he pulled out the letter and started to read.

Dear Zeil,
Though our time was short, I felt it was well placed. I know I said I needed your help, and you probably think you did nothing but stand there during the whole situation… but, as long as you remembered what happened… then you did more than you know. Do not worry for the creatures outside, the spell I used is by far the most forbidden spell of all. It’s called Spiritual Extinction, and as the name suggest, it brought extinction to the feral mindless beast with the aura of an earth pony. Luckily this had no effect on regular earth ponies or griffin in general so don’t worry, we only killed those that were controlled by Xemnes. That being said, the cost of that curse, is the use of the Capture Spell, whose cost in itself, is the life of both the victim and the caster. That’s why, I died shortly after using it on that griffin that charged me. So don’t worry, for the time being, you are safe to continue your journey though I’m sure your probably wondering where to go from here… so I’ll tell you.

Travel west, Till you reach a city of ruins, there you will meet with an adventurer who will assist you on you journey to the coast. Once at the coast, you will board a ship, and there… you will have to make a grave decision. To continue west to Equestria, or to journey south to Zebrica. In other words… this is the choice made by the riddle I gave you a few days ago. If you journey west, you will meet with Zecora sooner, but… it will cause a drastic change in your goal that may not end with the happy ending you wish for. But if you journey south, though you will reach Equestria later, your journey will end happily for you… or it may not. Like I said… the difference between happy and tragic eludes me now a days. Just… follow your heart with what you know, and I’m sure you will make the right choice. But if you do journey south, you will arrive at a port of Zebabwee, then travel east for about two days, until you reach the Northern Tribes of Zebrica.

There you must seek the teacher of light. But he will not be known by this tittle, to find him, you must ask for Chief Basarum. He will refuse your request to be taught numerous times, but all you can do is persist, and eventually he will agree to train you to become the mage. HOWEVER… Do not tell him why you want to be taught in public. The Mage of Zebrica is a touchy subject which borderlines taboo. If others hear of your goal, it is possible that they may turn hostile towards you. Speak of the mage ONLY in the absence of all else. And when you tell Basarum show him the book as proof. Only then will he teach you, and only then will your future be set. As for my true identity… look at the picture in the envelope… and you will know the truth. Take care of Zecora, and may good fortune smile upon you and your journey.
Good luck my friend,
The Mage of Zebrica

Smiling at the letter, Zeil looked to the lifeless mage and spoke, “Thank… for what it’s worth, I’m glad you got what you wanted.”
With that Zeil looked into the envelope as he saw a small photograph was tucked into the corner. When Zeil looked at the photo, his face turned white, as he dropped both the picture and the envelope and took a few steps back in complete shock, “Wh-what… No… it’s not possible… He’s… he’s a zebra… I know he is. But… how?”
Feeling like he saw it wrong, Zeil slowly picked up the picture and looked over the three zebra’s again. The first, was a younger looking stallion that looked like the mage only a few years younger with a longer mane that draped slightly in front of his face. The second was a little filly zebra with a green strip in her mane as she hugged her father with a happy smile on her face. And the last zebra in the photo who was obviously the filly’s mother and the stallion’s wife was a slightly older but still recognizable, Zecora.

With no idea as to what this meant, Zeil tried to understand, “This… this can’t be real. If it is, then he… then I’m… it’s not possible, he’s a zebra. His aura says he is, and if he wasn’t he would have changed back when he took his last breath. He can’t be… c-can he?”
Zeil felt conflicted with himself and what he discovered, however there was only one way Zeil could know for sure that what he discovered was the absolute truth. Slowly Zeil looked to the deceased mage as he reached down, and lifted his cloak just high enough to see his flank. However what he saw only proved his theory. On the old mage’s flank sat a lined image that resembled poison joke. The same placement mark that Zeil had created and worn since the day he casts his first spell. Zeil looked at the mage’s lifeless face as he spoke, “So it’s true, He… is me.” He rubbed his head in irritation, “This is too confusing to understand… but… if anything has proven itself before, it’s that magic can be unpredictable. But still… how can this be possible?”

Convinced that he would have to meditate on the subject, Zeil decided to put away the items into his saddlebag as he looked over the mage and mumbled, “If he is me… then, I should take his advice… but… will it help? Zebrica is too far out of my way to go… but… if I don’t go… then… will this happen? Will I… or he ever sacrifice himself to kill Xemnes?” Zeil paned his eyes over to the dust on the floor, “And these creatures… if it comes to pass that he doesn’t kill these things… will they still exist? Will I die here?”
Confused Zeil placed his hoof on his head as he mumbled, “This is too much for me to process right now. But… if anything, I… he… deserves to be laid properly to rest.”
Carful with his action, Zeil picked up the deceased mage and carried him through the damaged doors as he looked around as soon as he was outside. As he looked at the newly abandon ghost town around him, Zeil could see large piles of ash and dust gathered on the steps and around the doors to the chapel as he mumbled, “He was right… all of them turned to dust. And if what he says is true, then any created from now on will also dissolve.”

Seeing that the coast was clear, Zeil carried the mage around the side of the chapel where he took the time to dig a shallow grave to lay the fallen mage to rest. Once the mage was laid in the grave, Zeil took one last look at the photograph left behind as he focused on both Zecora and the filly in the photo. Looking at their smiling faces, Zeil mumbled, “If this is true… then… what should I do? These smiles, this happiness… is it meant for me or… will it change since I know the truth now?”
Annoyed with confusion he was feeling, Zeil tossed the photo into the grave with the mage as he buried them both together. Once the mage was properly laid to rest, Zeil took the spell book and letter along with the mage’s supplies as he left the now empty village and started back on his journey west. After about an hour of traveling, Zeil managed to find the edge of the forest as he looked up at the high tree canopies to see stars between the branches. As he trotted along the trail looking to the stars, he started to see more and more of the sky as if the tree canopies were dispersing clouds.

Soon the trial lead out of the forest and into a vast field as Zeil looked around at the landscape that was illuminated by the moon rather than the torches that he had become used to seeing. As he looked at the land around him, he started feeling a deep pit in his stomach as he realized he entered a forest populated by griffin, but left as the sole survivor of an evil enchanter’s wrath. As he felt this guilt an even darker feeling fell upon him when he started to see light peer across the landscape from behind as the Enchanter turned around and saw the twilight of day start cascading from over the canopies if the towering forest trees. As Zeil looked at the first gleam of sunlight he had seen in days he started to remember what the mage said as he repeated the words, “Only after one sees true darkness, will he come to appreciate the light, even if… it lay outside his reach. What am I in that analogy?... and… what was he?...”
Zeil placed his hoof against the outside of his saddlebag against the book inside as he mumbled, “That mage couldn’t be me… I don’t know who he is, or if anything he said was true… but he is a zebra… and I’m not… but…” He turned back to the road, “I won’t let that stop me… Long path or short, I’m getting back to Zecora… and I will do it making my own choices.”

Bk7/Ch1 Kingdom of the Eternal War

Book 7/Chapter 1
Kingdom of the Eternal War
(Year 4, month 5, day 20)

An alicorn king sat with his head held high as he watched his kingdom from a distance as it was overrun by countless Minotaur soldiers. With his white coat, black mane, silver armor, and an iron cuff around his neck chaining him to a flat cart, the king continued to watch while hiding his internal pain as the grey monitor general stepped beside him and smiled at the burning kingdom in the distance, “Take a good look your majesty… And know that this could have all been avoided if you had just given up the relic as soon as you discovered it.”
The king replied with distain, “Don’t give me that… You had no intention on sparing my kingdom from this fate. My queen offered the relic in exchange for our kingdom and its subjects a few days ago… and you turned it down.”
The monitor could hear the anger in the king’s voice as he replied, “Now, now King Mathias, You talk as if I wanted to kill you’re kingdom from the very beginning. This is simply an example, any who refuse the order of the monitor king will face his wrath.”

King Mathias replied with disgust, “It’s my understanding that your king defied the words of your titan. If your titan knew you were doing this… he would be ashamed to call you his creation.”
The monitor gave the king an angry look before drawing his sword and swinging it towards the king’s neck. However before the blade could end his life, the monitor stopped himself just far enough so the blade did cut the king’s skin but not damage anything in his throat. Seeing that King Mathias didn’t flinch at the attack caused the minotaur to smile as he spoke, “What’s wrong your majesty? Putting up a brave face for your subjects? Don’t bother, as far as they are concerned, you died when you stayed to cover your soldiers retreat last week.”
The king shook his head as he replied, “I don’t need a brave face for them… if anything… I’d welcome death right now. It would be better mercy then to continue watching this mindless bloodshed over a relic that may or may not do anything at all.”

The minotaur smiled as he sheathed his sword and looked back to the burning kingdom, “That is a question I’ve been pondering since we captured you… How do you kill a king? Do you simply stab him in the open? Do you behead him in front of his subjects? Poison him during his speech? Or are there other ways?”
The proud king held his silence and continued looking at his fallen kingdom as the minotaur smiled, “How about… we ask your queen?”
The king all of a sudden gave the minotaur an angry glare as he spoke with whispered rage, “You lay one finger on her… and I’ll end you…”
The minotaur wasn’t swayed by the sudden change in tone as he smiled, “There… now that is the fabled king chosen by the Queen of Eden that I wanted to meet.”

Before anything more could be said, a minotaur soldier approached, “General… We’ve cornered the city’s residents in the keep. It would seem that Queen Anna is with them.”
Hearing the bad news, the king stopped glaring at the general and looked back to his kingdom as the general smiled, “Very good… take this pathetic has-been back to the main camp. He and his relic will be our gift to the minotaur king. As for me… I think it’s time I had a chat with the last queen of Lilith.”
With that, the general left the king chained to the cart as a few minotaur soldiers started pulling the cart away from the city. With the general moving towards the fallen city and the king being pulled away. The king could only feel disappointed in his failure as he looked down to the chain that bound him to his mobile prison.

As the king looked down the chain, Mathias noticed that the clamp that locked the chain onto the wooden cart was hastily applied, as he saw a two of the four screws loose and the other two most likely stripped. Seeing this, the king turned his head slightly to see that the solders hauling him away weren’t paying him any attention. Seeing the opportunity, the alicorn king griped the chain as tightly as he could before wrapping it around his hoof and mumbling to himself, “For Lilith… for my subjects, and for my queen.”
With those words, the trapped king jumped towards his kingdom while yanking the chain as hard as he could as the determined monarch striped the remaining screws on the chain’s clamp as he pulled himself free from the cart and started sprinting towards his kingdom.

Seeing the prisoner free, the soldiers pulling the cart turned towards him and started their pursuit as the king charged towards his home with as much speed as his chained wings would allow. As he charged forward, the king looked to his burning city as he spoke in desperation, “Hold on Anna… stay alive til…”
before he could finish his plea, something strange happened. The air went stale, as the battlefield grew silent. Then, from the center of the city’s keep, a bright flash was seen as a dome shaped ball of light started spreading away from the city as if engulfed Lilith, the solders, and everything in its path, crossing over the city’s main walls and spreading over the battlefield. With the light proving too bright for him, the king stopped his charge and shielded his eyes as the fast growing dome of light started nearing him as if to engulf him with the rest of the battlefield. However, as the wall of light neared him, the dome all of a sudden stopped growing as the wall paused just a few feet in from of him.

Confused Matthias tried as best he could to look at the wall of light until the wall slowly started moving away from him as the large dome of light quickly shrank back across the battlefield, across the city’s main walls, and back into the keep. Once the ball of light was gone, the king looked upon something he didn’t expect to see. The kingdom was still present and burning from the wrath of war, but there were no soldiers on the battlefield, no sounds of fighting in the city, not one soul to be seen from what the light consumed. Confused the king looked around, “Is… is this the relic’s doi-”
Before he could finish his statement, the perusing guards caught up with him as the first approaching guard raised a large club and bashed the king across the side of his head, shattering his horn as the king was knocked to the ground by the intense blunt force trauma. However as the king hit the ground, so too did Zeil’s face hit the surface of the river as Zeil opened his eyes to find himself sinking into a deep waters.

With his vision broken and his senses returned, Zeil quickly swam upward as he broke the surface of the water before grabbing onto the large boulder that he was meditating on prior to his vision. As the coughing changeling climbed onto the boulder, the winded enchanter wiped the water from his face as he mumbled, “That vision… that wasn’t normal was it… who was that… and… why did I see it.”
Confused, Zeil took the time to get a few more gasps of air before looking to the orange sky above, “It’s already evening… the vision caused me to meditate longer than normal. I better find a place to set up camp.”
With that, Zeil used a small number of surfaced stones to step back onto the riverbed before trotting to his saddlebag and cloak that were hanging from a low tree branch. As Zeil put on his possessions, he could only think about the book that still remained in his saddlebag as he remembered the mage who gave it to him. Though it had been several months, Zeil still couldn’t help but wonder if that zebra he met was who he truly thinks it was, and if so how was it possible?

Annoyed by the confusion of the question, Zeil finished putting the saddlebag on as he changed the subject in his mind, “King Mathias, and Queen Anna… and the Kingdom of Lilith… I never heard the names before. So… what does it all mean?”
As Zeil pondered the strange vision, he made his way away from the riverbank and onto a nearby road. The road seemed like it hasn’t been used in many years, but the placement of the old stones made even the most stubborn grass unable to grow as Zeil used the old pathway to follow the river west. As he continued he mumbled, “The coast should be about two days travel… but I haven’t seen the ruins the mage told me about in his letter… was he just some old coot after all?”
With the thought in mind Zeil continued as the darkness of twilight started making the road more difficult to see. As he continued, Zeil saw a strange formation on his path. With the river following on the right side of the road, Zeil could see a large tree covered berm following on the lift side that seemed too perfect to be naturally made. Curious, Zeil stepped off the path and climbed to the top of the small hill. Once he got to the top, Zeil saw a large clearing that stretched over an open area across to another tree covered berm on the other side.

As Zeil looked across the large clear area of unkempt grass, the darkness of the coming night made seeing anything beyond the tree’s difficult as Zeil could see something strange in the distance. He couldn’t make it out, but something very tall was towering over the tree line on the other side of the clearing. At first Zeil thought it could be some sort of ancient tree, but with no branches or appendages of any kind, he could only assume it to be a castle’s tower. However even with the approaching night, any castle with somepony living in it would be lit with a light source of some kind but this one remained dark, and still. Assuming it could be the ruins he was supposed to seek out, Zeil decided that where he was would be a good place to set up camp as he carefully climbed back down the berm and dropped his bag so he could set up his tent. After he set up the tent, Zeil preceded to pull out the book that the mage gave him and look through its pages in hopes that some of the unidentifiable lettering would make sense. However just like the night he met the mage, and every night since, the only words he could read were the books cover. Annoyed and once again beaten by the literature, Zeil placed the book back into his saddlebag as he ate some fruit before going to sleep.

The next morning Zeil woke to a surprise as he heard a loud sounds of stomping hooves, and rattling armor. As soon a Zeil heard the noise, he immediately sprang into action as he quickly exited his tent and looked around for the approaching noise. Though the area outside the tent seemed unaffected, Zeil quickly climbed up the berm to look over the clearing as he saw something that completely stunned him. In front of him marching in perfect columns were two massive armies. One a mix of pony races to include pegasi, earthpony, and unicorn. And the other, composed entirely of Minotaur. As soon as Zeil saw the army, he was filled with confusion. The two armies seemed to appear from nowhere, in a matter of hours, and to make it more confusing, none of their auras could be sensed by Zeil’s changeling abilities. The minotaur, the ponies, nothing on the battlefield gave an aura of emotion or presence. It was as if Zeil were looking through an empty field with only fog distorting his view.

With nothing sensed on the battlefield, Zeil felt a little uneasy. At first he assumed this was some sort of vision brought about by his sleep, however, the gleam of Iron armor and weapons, The sound of thundering hooves, and the smell of blood filled the air confirming all he needed to know. That he was awake, and he could be in danger. Reacting, Zeil rushed to his saddlebag and cloak as he put on his cloak and started rushing to put everything in his saddlebag, focusing on important items first. However as he quickly packed his bag, he heard a call, “YOU THERE! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?!”
Looking through the trees that lined the berm, Zeil could see a squad of pony soldiers approaching him. Stepping out and making sure they could see his unarmed hooves Zeil started to reply, “It’s al-”
At that moment an arrow came in from behind him as it flew downward, hitting his saddlebag and nailing it to the ground as Zeil looked down at his pierced bag.

Confused, Zeil quickly turned around as he saw a larger squad of Minotaur charging in his direction as they all gave a battle cry while holding their weapons at the ready. When Zeil saw this he turned to the ponies to try to call and say that he wasn’t with them, but before he could say anything the lead pony saw the charging army as he called, “It’s a scouting party! They are with a mercenary! Soldiers at the ready!!!”
At that moment the ponies drew their weapons and started charging as Zeil found himself in the direct path of both charging armies. Knowing that as soon as they met, both sides would see him as an enemy, Zeil decided that he only had one option. With only his cloak, Zeil climbed back up the small berm and looked over the ongoing battlefield.

With only a bracing sigh as preparation, Zeil left behind everything he had as he charged forward across the battlefield before finding himself mixed amongst the chaos of the fighting armies. With only the opposite side of the battlefield as his destination, Zeil charged across the fighting soldiers as he dodged all in his path in hopes of avoiding any conflict with any pony or monitor soldiers. Sadly this proved impossible as a minotaur in his path saw the charging zebra and readied his mace as he spoke, “Eager to die eh… then come at me zebra.”
With no intention of fighting back, Zeil waited till he was close enough for the massive creature to swing his club horizontally, as Zeil dropped down and slide under the minotaurs swing, through his legs and passed the hostile soldier.

With no hesitation in his speed, Zeil used his inertia to slide back onto his hooves as he continued charging in hopes of reaching the opposite side of the field. However he was soon met with another fighting minotaur, as the large shield bearing soldier saw Zeil and readied himself for what he assumed to be an attack. Seeing the soldier bear his shield as a barrier, Zeil decided to try going around him as he shifted his direction in an attempt to pass him by. However as Zeil passed, the minotaur saw this as an attempt to get around his defense as the creature lunged his shield towards the passing changeling as the force of the attack hit Zeil on his side causing him to lose his footing as Zeil fell to the ground rolling. Knowing he was in danger Zeil tried to get up but as he did the shield bearing minotaur drew his sword and charged his prey before dropping his swords down in an attempt to stab Zeil on the ground.

Seeing the danger, Zeil rolled out of the blade’s path as he picked himself up, kicked the large soldier in his face and started fleeing the fight with no intent on getting involved. Luckily Zeil was successful in alluding the minotaur soldiers, however as he reached the opposite side of the battlefield, Zeil was met with a small squad of pony soldiers as the officer, a unicorn with a dark blue coat saw him and called, “A merc! Soldiers at the ready!”
Stopping in front of the soldiers, Zeil noticed something odd about the ponies. When they readied their weapons, their stances didn’t seem normal for soldiers. In fact, it was obvious that none of them were trained as Zeil could see their fearful expressions and trembling weapons.

With his escape route in mind Zeil looked towards the thinnest part of the group as he charged forward with no signs of yielding. Terrified, the closest soldier charged and raised his sword to swing, however his movements were slow as Zeil reached him first before punching him in his jaw and knocking him to the ground. Still charging forward, Zeil soon reached the next soldier as the pegasus raised his battle axe and swung horizontally towards Zeil’s direction. With this soldiers movements too slow and no skill in his swing, it was easy for Zeil as he timed it right to jump up and land on top of the swinging axe as he stomped down on the side of the weapon causing the blade to dig into the ground with the swing. Jumping over without attacking the axe bearing soldier, Zeil continued his charge as the last three ponies, raised their bows as one called, “S-stop or we’ll shoot!”

Seeing the poorly trained archers didn’t slow his movements as Zeil continued his charge with no intent on stopping. Afraid the center archer yelled as he released his arrow, “F-FIRE!”
At that moment, the three archers released their arrows, however none of them made contact. The archers on both sides missed entirely while the center archer sent his arrow into the ground in front of Zeil as the charging changeling approached the three archers before they could ready a second arrow. With no intention in fighting, Zeil used his speed to plow through the three archers as he knocked two to the ground and continued passed with no hesitation in his speed. Seeing the tree line in front of him Zeil rushed into the forest as the final archer readied his next arrow. But, before the untrained soldier could release the projectile, Zeil had already vanished into the forest and his sight.

At the far end of the battlefield on the pony’s side, a ruling mare witness the charge from atop a hill as the mare spoke, “A zebra?... interesting.”
At that moment a soldier approached, “Your majesty! The front line is faltering! The minotaur are circling our troops and cutting us off!”
After hearing the information, the royal pony looked to the front of her army to see her soldiers falling as she nodded, “We can’t hold them back any longer.” She looked to the soldier, “Issue a full retreat. All ponies fall back to the city.”
The soldiers nodded as he rushed to pass on the order. After the soldier left, the royal mare looked back over the battlefields as she spoke, “I’m sorry my love, I couldn’t hold them back any longer. The field is lost. Now, all we have left is Lilith.”
That said the pony turned away from the battlefield as she started calling to her solders, for the full retreat.

A few minutes later, Zeil emerged from the thick tree line as he exited onto a wide brick road as he took this time to lean against a tree to catch his breath. Surprised he had made it through the battlefield, Zeil looked back behind him to see if any pony was following. Luckily he saw that he had lost the soldiers as he smiled, “Wow… I didn’t think I would make it through so easily. Even without being able to sense them… speaking of which… Why couldn’t I sense their aura? Their species, their emotions… even their very presence wasn’t there… am… I sick? Or did I eat something that’s causing this?”
Starting to catch his breath, Zeil sat down and put his hoof on his forehead to think about why his changeling abilities weren’t working. However his thoughts were soon broken when he heard a pain riddled grunt. Confused, Zeil looked down the road as he saw a lone wounded pony trotting up the road while using the banner of his kingdom as a crutch to carry his weakened body. Trying to keep himself awake, the wounded soldier looked forward and saw Zeil as he spoke, “H-help… m-me…”

With no intention in getting involved with either side of the ensuing battle, Zeil turned away with the intent to leave, but as he did, the soldier reached for him and spoke again, “P-please… don’t go… p-please help me…”
As Zeil heard these words, he could only remember when he himself spoke these words with the same amount of pain. When he spoke them to Zecora. Sighing in irritation Zeil mumbled, “This isn’t my fight… but…”
With his decision made, Zeil turned back to the soldier and approached him to try and help. As the soldier saw him approaching he smiled, “Th-thank you… I knew your weren’t like the ena-“
At that moment, the banner’s pole slipped from where he was bracing himself from as he dropped the flag and fell forward, just in time for Zeil to catch him.

As the banner fell to the ground and spread out, Zeil took a good look at the nation that this soldier fought for. The banner was a two toned flag divided diagonally with purple on top and light green on bottom. The green field had speckled red, but that was most likely blood from the wounded soldier. In the center of the banner stood two alicorn royals. Not the queen and king of Eden, but another pair. The first was a tall white king with a black mane and the second was a slightly shorter queen with a pink coat and a silver mane. As Zeil looked at the banner he couldn’t help but recognize the king slightly before the wounded soldier spoke, “I only need you to help me get back to the city… it isn’t far just up the road… see?”
As Zeil looked back at the soldier, he saw that the solder was pointing up the same wide brick road that they were standing on as Zeil looked down the opposite way to see in the distance the gate of what looked to be a large city complete with two large double doors and a metal portcullis which was currently up.

Shifting the soldier around till he was being held up by Zeil’s shoulder, Zeil nodded as he replied, “Sure… lets hurry then, your wounds look serious.”
With that, Zeil carried the soldier down the street towards the large walls as the soldier spoke through his pain, “My name… is Sourdough… and you are?”
Zeil replied, “Zeil… try not to talk too much… your bleeding quite a bit.”
Sourdough nodded, “Zeil… thank you…”
Following Zeil’s suggestion, Sourdough stayed quiet until he and Zeil finally approached the tall gate at the end of the brick road. As they approached the gate a guard looked down from atop the high wall as he called, “Who goes there!?!”
Sourdough replied as loud as his wounds would allow, “Sourdough, from the scouting party! Let us in!”

As soon as the guard heard the wounded earth pony, he called behind him to the ground, “Sourdough has returned! Open the gate!”
Slowly, Zeil started to hear the sound of wood grinding against wood as the sound progressed for a few seconds before the massive wooden doors opened. As the doors opened Zeil felt nervous, usually a changeling would know how many ponies are behind a wall this large and how they would react to his entry by their emotions. But with since he was unable to sense their number or emotions, Zeil felt as if he were blindly entering a minefield. However as soon as the doors were opened far enough, a small number of ponies rushed out of the city and they quickly surrounded Zeil as they took Sourdough from him as one spoke, “Be careful with him, we can let his wounds get any worse. I have a tent set up for wounded on the inside of the wall, let’s get him there.”

As the residents took Sourdough from Zeil, they seemed unconcerned as Zeil followed them through the gate as Zeil entered the city behind them. As he followed, one of the residents looked at him as he spoke, “You brought him back? Thank you… I wish we could repay you somehow.”
Zeil shook his head, “Its fine, it didn’t feel right just leaving him out there like that.”
As they entered the city, the massive wood gate closed behind them and a large drawbar sealed the door shut as Zeil saw a large tent set up immediately to the right of the gate as group helped Sourdough to the tent for medical treatment. As the wounded earth pony was laid onto a stretcher, a mare approached them as she spoke, “Sourdough? My husband and son were with you in the scouting party… tell me… what’s become of them?”
Sourdough didn’t look at her as he replied while being examined, “I’m sorry… but… I was the only survivor. They… they showed no mercy. I only got away because I was knocked unconscious and believed to be dead.”
Shocked by what she heard, the mare backed away before dropping to the ground crying in despair as another mourner picked her up and led her away so the doctor could do his work in peace.

As the widow was led away, Zeil watched her leave as a number of thoughts crossed his mind. Most circled the question as to why he couldn’t feel her sadness or aura, but others fell onto the fact that this apparent war was taking a large toll not just on the soldiers fighting on the battlefield, but also the families left behind. The doctor preceded to remove Sourdough’s armor as Zeil saw his cutiemark. Though it was no surprise that a pony with the name Sourdough had a loaf of bread as a cutiemark, it was surprising however that a pony with this mark was fighting in a battle. Confused Zeil asked the doctor, “His mark… is he a soldier or a baker.”
The doctor paid Zeil little mind as he replied, “Baker… we ran out of soldiers days ago when the king died. Now… everypony on the battlefield are volunteers. It’s all we have left here in Lilith.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “I guess that makes sense, it didn’t seem like any of the soldiers out there were trained. Well… the ponies didn’t seem trained.”
The doctor gave Zeil a confused look, “What? What are you ta-”

Before he could finish his question, the guards standing on the wall called down, “The Queen!!! The Queen is returning with our forces! Open the gate and make way!!!”
With more work approaching the doctor looked to one of his nurses as he spoke, “His wounds are simple, but he had three broken arrow in his side. Remove them carefully one looks deeper than the rest.”
The nurse nodded, “Yes doctor.”
As the doctor left Sourdough where he was Zeil followed with concern, “Wait… you’re just going to leave him like that?”
The doctor nodded, “His wound is simple, and the queen has returned from the warfront. My services will be needed.”
As that was said, the large drawbar was moved from its locking position as the massive gate opened allowing the ponies inside the city to see the returning army.

As soon as the doors were opened, the wounded and defeated army slowly entered the city as Zeil looked in shock at the resulting faces of war. As the army stumbled into the city slowly, Zeil could see that almost every soldier entering the city was either wounded, or assisting wounded soldiers as the doctor rushed to each soldier, identified their wounds, and directed them to his set up field hospital. The doctor then rushed to a dark blue unicorn carrying another wounded soldier as he spoke, “Captain Rose! Here, let me take him.”
The captain handed the wounded soldier to the doctor as the stallion replied, “Here, his wounds are minor… but… he was one of lucky few.”
The doctor sat the wounded soldier on a stretcher as he looked over the wounds, “Looks like you went through a lot out there. I’m guessing… the battle didn’t end well… did it?”

The captain shook his head as he looked back over his army and replied, “No… we lost the field today… and now… the minotaur own everything outside the city.”
The doctor looked back at Captain Rose as he replied, “That’s troubling to hear… what does that mean for us?”
As the captain replied he paned his eyes over the rest of the field hospital, “I’m not sure, but whatever it means, we need to have our faith in- YOU!!!”
As soon as he saw him, the royal captain glared daggers as Zeil as the confused changeling quickly realized that the captain standing there was the same one commanding the squad of soldiers he faced on the battlefield. Before Zeil could say anything the captain pointed at Zeil and yelled, “Guards! Seize him!!! He is a mercenary fighting for the Minotaur!”

Surprised Zeil started to take a step back however as he did, he felt his hooves held in place as he looked down to realize his hooves were being anchored to the ground by magic. Confused, Zeil looked around to see that a few unicorn guards in the area were using their magic to hold Zeil in place as the captain drew his sword and started trotting towards the restrained changeling. As the captain approached, he reared his sword back as he spoke, “Any enemy soldier, mercenary or not who infiltrates the city will be charged with espionage and sentenced to death!”
Before Zeil could say anything in his defense, the captain lunged the sword forward in an attempt to stab him where he stood. At that very moment, something odd happened as Zeil felt an unexpected gust of wind, as a grey pegasus wearing a blue hoodless cloak and turban flew in out of nowhere and used a book to block the attack stopping the sword before it could cause any harm.

After burying the blade through a few hundred pages of the thick book, Captain Rose gave the grey interloper an angry look as he spoke, “Edelweiss... how dare you save the life of an enemy soldier.”
The pegasus used the book to parry the sword away as he replied, “And how dare you defile the works of Sir Jacob Hoofington the Third?”
As Edelweiss brushed off the cover of the damaged book Captain Rose replied, “I don’t even know who that is.”
Edelweiss smiled, “You wouldn’t… his work is of peace… not like a warmonger like you would understand anyways right… Compost Rose?”
The Captain glared at the pegasus as he replied, “It’s Compass… and I would advise you show respect to the captain of the Queen’s Royal Forces.”
Edelweiss smiled, “Oh I’m sorry… but I would assume one would need to earn respect to gain it… and I’ve yet to see how you’ve earned such a thing from me.”
In anger the Captain pointed his sword at the pagasus’s face as he replied, “For aiding the enemy… you are committing treason against the queen and kingdom. For that, I should execute you where you stand!”

With the tip of the captain’s sword less than an inch from his face, Edelweiss replied, “You could… but I would suggest you calm your bloodlust before you decide to condemn anypony, especially two innocent ones. Otherwise… it would incite some bad favor from the Queen.”
The captain reared his sword back as he replied in anger, “What did you say yo-”
“THAT IS ENOUGH!!!”
After that was said, the surrounding ponies to include Edelweiss and Captain Rose turned to the origin of the voice as they all bowed leaving Zeil to look upon the approaching pony in shock. Though he couldn’t since her aura, it was no denying that the approaching armored mare, was not only the Queen of this kingdom, but an alicorn as well. Though the queen didn’t stand any taller than Zeil would if he were in his changeling form, something about the pink mare made her seem different from the alicorns he had met prior. It could have been the battered and bruised armor she wore, or the demanding stance she held as if she were ready for a fight, or even the unamused stare she gave as if she were not only about to issue an execution, but to carry it out by her own hoof. Whatever it was, Zeil felt intimidated by the royal pony, so much that he felt he should also bow in respect, less he risk angering her.

However before Zeil could do just that, the royal mare looked at Zeil and focused on the magical aura surrounding his hooves as she demanded, “Guards! Release the zebra from your spell.”
Doing as they were told, the unicorn guards stopped using their spells on Zeil as the royal mare looked to Captain Rose and Edelweiss as she spoke, “Captain, Edelweiss… explain to me what is happening here! I want an explanation as to why two of my subjects, my most trusted in fact, are threatening one another while our true enemy stands beyond our walls.”
Both ponies rose from their bow as Captain Rose spoke first, “Your majesty! I was in the process of executing an enemy soldier, but this traitor stopped me before carrying it out.”
The queen looked at Edelweiss, “Is that so…”
Although he didn’t say anything in response, Edelweiss didn’t show any concern in his expression as the queen paned her eyes over to Zeil and replied, “This zebra… is he the soldier you claim to be judging?”
Captain Rose nodded, “He is, your majesty.”
The queen’s emotionless gaze intimidated Zeil slightly as she continued, “And… what makes you curtain that this zebra is an enemy soldier? I see no armor upon him, nor do I see a weapon of any sort.”
Captain Rose replied, “I fought him on the battlefield, no doubt he is a mercenary hired by the minotaur king. After neutralizing a few of my soldiers he fled the field and infiltrated the city.”

The queen nodded as she looked at Zeil, “Yes… I remember seeing him myself. But permit me to inquire… did he… slay any of your soldiers?”
Captain Rose replied in hesitation, “I… well… no the soldiers he neutralized loss consciousness, but I hardly see how that makes a difference.”
The queen replied with an unamused tone, “Actually that makes all the difference. You see I witness him entering the battlefield from the southern tree line. When he entered the field he confronted and neutralized a small number of pony… and minotaur soldiers. Each one he faced with plenty of skill, but none left lifeless in his wake. So I can only surmise that… he isn’t the mercenary you assume him to be. Perhaps, he is merely a traveler who’s ill fate led him into a fight that was not his own.”

Edelweiss gave a smug smile as Captain Rose replied, “But… his skill… he has to be a mercenary. How else could he neutralize highly trained soldiers?”
The royal pony replied, “Is it so strange to see a traveler with the means to defend himself? Perhaps he is the wandering knight from another kingdom. Nevertheless, he has shown no intentional harm towards our soldiers outside of self-preservation. So I hardly see him as an adversary, to us or to Lilith.”
Edelweiss finally spoke, “If I may speak in his defense your majesty. This zebra brought to our gates a wounded soldier he found on the road. If anything he had saved, more of our own then harmed.”
Queen looked to the doctor who still held his head down in a bow as she replied, “Doctor Grey… is this true? Did this zebra save one of our own?”
The doctor rose form his bow as he replied, “He did your majesty, the zebra saved Sourdough and brought him back to the city.”

The queen nodded as she replied, “Then it would seem that my theory is correct.” She looked at Captain Rose, “Captain… the zebra is now a welcomed resident to Lilith and will not be harmed while within the city walls.”
Captain Rose tried to object, “B-but your majesty I-”
The queen interrupted with an annoyed tone, “If I’m not mistaken, I believe the loss of this battle has taken a toll on our soldiers. So I would see it as your duty to gather my officers and give me a full report on how many we lost today. I will expect this report before dusk, so I would suggest you move with haste.”
Annoyed, Captain Rose looked at Zeil, then Edelweiss with anger before looking back at the queen and bowing in respect, “Yes your majesty… at once.”
Before leaving Captain Rose gave one last look to Zeil as he spoke, “As for you… watch your back stripes… cause the moment you show your true colors, I’ll be burying my sword through it.”

With his threat heard, Captain Rose left the area as the queen approached Zeil and spoke, “Brave sir knight… I must offer my most humble of apologies for my captains action, and my most sincere gratitude for saving one of my subjects. May I ask you for your name sir knight so that I may address you properly?”
Zeil replied while showing as much respect as he could, “My name is Zeil… and… forgive me for correcting you, but I’m no knight.”
The queen seemed surprised, “You are not? Surely a zebra of your skills and nobility would have been knighted by your ruling monarch. Or… are you from a place that doesn’t follow such traditions?”
Zeil replied, “I… I’m not from a kingdom or a tribe… I guess you could call me a traveler or… nomad of some kind I guess.”
The queen nodded, “Ah… I see. Nevertheless, one as noble as you shouldn’t be burdened with such an inhospitable welcome… nor be subject to the situation you are currently in.”

Hearing disappointment in her tone but unable to sense her emotions, Zeil replied, “Situation? I don’t understand, what situation am I in your majesty?”
The queen looked back to the city gate as the last few soldiers entered as the massive doors closed behind them, “I’m afraid… we have lost control of the land outside the city. Now, any who leave may be mistaken as Lithian soldiers and attacked on sight by the Minotaur King’s army.”
Zeil was confused as he replied, “What? You mean… I’m trapped in this city?”
The queen nodded, “For the time being… I’m afraid so. But fear not, upon the morn, we will attempt to barter with the Minotaur army in hopes that they will accept our full surrender and spare my kingdom. Till then…” She looked at Edelweiss, “I will leave you in the care of my most trusted scholar.”

The queen smiled at the pegasus as she continued, “Edelweiss? You keep record of all vacant homes in the kingdom do you not?”
Edelweiss bowed in respect as he replied, “I do your grace, I have record of every home… to include some that are recently and… morbidly vacant.”
Knowing what he meant the queen nodded, “I see… is there one that Mr. Zeil could take refuge in for the night. Since our defeat in this battle is the cause of his inconvenience, I feel that we are liable for making sure he has refuge for the evening.”
Edelweiss nodded as he rose from his bow, “I understand your majesty, I will see to it personally that he is comfortable for the evening.”
The queen smiled sincerely as she replied, “Thank you Edelweiss, I know I can always count on you.”
Edelweiss smiled back in a peaceful way as he replied, “It is my sole purpose to serve my queen.”
Edelweiss looked at Zeil as he spoke, “This way Mr. Zeil… I have a specific place in mind.”

Before he could reply, Edelweiss started on his way down the road as Zeil hesitated for a few seconds before following in caution. As the two trotted away, the queen watched for a moment then took a step forward to say something else, however the indecisive mare stopped herself as she turned away and she shook her head as if to remove the canceled statement from her mind. Though Zeil saw her actions, he still disregarded them as he continued to follow the strange scholar in silence. As Zeil followed he couldn’t stop himself from trying to understand the pegasus he was following. His grey coat, dark tail, skinny and seemingly malnourished body, turban and cloak seemed to match his appearance of a normal scholar but his actions when blocking the captains sword made him seem like more than a simple academic. His speed and precision seemed on par with Zeil, if not more so, while his confidence and fearless reaction to the captain’s threats made him seem like a stallion who knew how to survive.

As he thought about this, Zeil decided to speak, “Um… Edelweiss?”
Edelweiss replied, “Yes, Mr Zeil?”
“I wanted to thank you for… back there. With my hooves stuck, I would have been killed if you hadn’t jumped in.”
Edelweiss nodded, “I saw you in danger and knew I had to do something… besides no harm was done. I still have twenty-seven more volumes of encyclopedias to use should Compass Rose decide to try executing any other innocent ponies.”
Zeil was confused, “Encyclopedias?”
Edelweiss held the book over his shoulder so Zeil could see the damaged cover as it read, “Encyclopedia Titanica Vol. 4”

After seeing the cover Zeil could only laugh, “Wow, so much for the writings of Sir Jacob Hoofington the Third.”
Edelweiss chuckled as he replied, “Yes well, I’ve learned that if I vex Compass rose now, he tends to avoid me later.”
Zeil was confused, “later?”
The pegasus shook his head, “I’ll explain after the Queen speaks with you this evening. For now, lets just say that Captain Rose doesn’t have the skill to be a real threat.”
Not noticing the subject of the queen, Zeil nodded, “I noticed that… on the battlefield, I had to neutralize a number of pony soldiers to get out alive… but they seemed… untrained… terrified. Like it was the first time they ever held a weapon. Doctor grey said it’s because they aren’t real soldiers. Is that true?”

Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “It is… none of these soldiers are actually trained. The least few soldiers in the kingdom are a part of the city’s main guards. The rest… perished with the king.”
Zeil asked with suspicion, “And what about you?... are you trained?”
Edelweiss smiled but dodged the question as he replied, “Where did you say you were from Mr Zeil? I heard news of a zebra nation but the name escapes me for the time being.”
Ignoring the dodged question, Zeil replied, “The name you’re thinking of is Zebrica… but like I told your queen, I’m not part of a nation.”
Edelweiss looked back to his path as he replied, “A shame… one should always have a place called home… a place that if threatened he should take up arms to defend.”
Zeil nodded, “Well… I suppose there is one place I would call my home… but it’s more for who is there, and not the place itself. Equestria.”

Edelweiss replied with surprise, “Equestria?... the home of the two alicorn princesses?”
Zeil nodded, “the same.”
Edelweiss smiled, “How are the two princesses by the way. Are they in good health?”
Zeil was confused as he replied, “I… guess so… I’m not sure but I would assume they are. Why?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “Just curious… I don’t hear much from beyond the walls so it’s good to know that the bloodline of the King and Queen of Eden still lives on. It’s only natural to be curious of your titan’s lineage.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I… guess so…”
Zeil gave him a confused look as Edelweiss continued without a response to the subject. With nothing more said, Zeil felt confused, usually in this sense Zeil would try to feel his emotions and draw a conclusion based on that, however no matter how he tried, Zeil couldn’t feel anything. No aura of presence that identified the pony as a pegasus, and no emotions telling what he was feeling. It was as if his changeling abilities were disabled entirely. The only thing Zeil could do was rely on his eyes, and guess.

Outside the city of Lilith, the minotaur were cutting down the forests surrounding the city as the minotaur general watched and smiled. As he watched, a soldier approached, “General, the last of the pony forces have retreated into Lilith and locked themselves away.”
The general nodded, “Good, not set up a perimeter around the city and ensure that no ponies, not even civilians escape. Once we clear the forest we will have a perfect view of the city for the final attack. That will show these smug ponies who is superior.”
All of a sudden a second soldier rushed up from behind, “General! News from the rear! The main camp… it’s… it’s… It’s disappeared.”
The general turned to his soldier, “What!?!”
The soldier replied, “We were escorting our wounded back to camp and when we got there… it was gone. The tents the wagons even the prisoners, all gone. In fact the place looked as if we were never there to begin with.”

The general replied in anger, “What do you mean, we were never there to begin with?”
The soldier replied, “The grass was tall and untouched, there were trees growing there that weren’t there before. It’s as if the ground hadn’t been disturbed in years.”
The general thought to himself as he replied, “Hmm… then it’s some kind of trick then. Pony magic maybe.” He looked back at the soldier, “If the camp is truly gone, then we will set up a new camp here. We will deem all missing soldiers as deserters and if we ever see them again we will execute them for their crime. As for the captives, increase security around the city walls. If that king did escape, I want him found before he can return to his subjects.”
The soldier nodded as he left to follow the order, “Yes general.”
The general looked towards the city as a tree fell over revealing the first sight of the city’s wall, “If King Matthias had made it back to the city he would have joined his wife in battle, so it’s obvious he isn’t there yet… so if he is trying to get back in, I’ll get him. After all I haven’t decided yet… How do you kill a king?”

Bk7/Ch2 Long Live the King

Book 7/Chapter 2
Long Live the King
(Year 4, month 5, day 21)

Zeil sat outside the small inner city home for a few more minutes as the door finally opened as Edelweiss stepped outside, “Well… I put away everything, so you can come in now.”
As Zeil entered the home, it was obvious that the home was lived in until recently as Zeil replied, “So… what were you doing again?”
The scholar replied, “I was just putting away a few items that weren’t nessisary anymore. Stuff that you needn’t concern yourself with.”
Zeil looked at a small shelf in the living room and noticed dust on the shelf and places where picture frames used to sit as Zeil replied, “You mean, the belongings of those who lived here until recently. Right?”
Edelweiss nodded, “You don’t miss anything do you? Yes, I felt out of respect it was only proper to put away things of personal value, family portraits and such.”
As Zeil trotted through the home he had to ask, “So… who lived here before?”

Edelweiss gave a disappointed sigh before looking to a shelf and replying, “Two brothers living together. One was a soldier and died in the kings main forces a few days ago. The other… is currently lying in the field hospital at the front of the city… he won’t survive the night.”
Zeil gave Edelweiss a disappointed look, “Oh… I’m sorry to hear that.”
The scholar continued, “So many lost in this pointless war… and all for a stupid relic.”
Zeil was curious, “Relic?”
Edelweiss smiled as he shook his head, “I can explain more at the right time but… for now let’s just say this. There are things in this world that we don’t understand. Mysterious relics that predate even the titans. Items of great power that we can’t understand, because we aren’t meant to understand them. Sometimes, it’s better to never know. And other times, it would be better to just forget it and leave it in the hole we found it in.”
Zeil gave the scholar a confused look, but rather then explaining further, the cleaver pegasus continued, “But enough about that. If you want to understand better, I’ll explain more after your meeting with the queen… in fact he is already here to take you to see her.”
Edelweiss looked to the front door as Zeil started to ask, “What? What are you ta-”
At that moment a firm knock was heard at the door as Edelweiss spoke, “Go ahead and answer it… he isn’t here to see me, so you should answer.”

Confused, Zeil trotted to the front door and opened it as he was surprised to see Captain Rose standing on the other side as the captain gave him a disgruntled look, “Stripes…”
Zeil felt nervous as he replied, “Um… Compass Rose… right?”
The annoyed soldier replied, “That’s captain to you… but I’m not here for formalities.” He looked passed Zeil at Edelweiss, “The queen wishes to see the zebra… I trust that this won’t be a problem will it?”
Edelweiss shrugged his shoulders as he replied, “If the queen commands it, then let it be so. If I need him I’ll just be patient till he is available.”
Although he didn’t show it, Captain Rose was surprised to how easy it was as he replied, “Alright then, follow me Stripes. I’ll escort you to the castle.”
With a somewhat dismissive actions, Captain Rose turned away from the door and started trotting up the street as Zeil had to rush to keep up.

As Zeil followed the irritated Captain, he could tell that he was completely unwelcomed as Zeil tried to break the ice, “So… this is Lilith. Strange… the buildings are made of untreated wood, and the rooves are thatch… that and the cobble stone street make this place seem moderately old. Far older than any city I’ve ever been t-”
The captain interrupted with distain, “You can save your acts of innocents for Edelweiss and the Queen… I just have one question for you?... What was your backup plan?”
Zeil gave the distrusting captain a confused look, “Backup plan?”
The captain nodded, “I saw you on that battlefield, and yet you still have the gall to attempt an infiltration on this city… but someone as skilled as you surely would keep a backup plan in case things went awry. I wonder… what would you have done if Edelweiss wasn’t there to save you?”
Zeil replied, “You want the truth?”
Thinking he had him, the captain smiled, “It would be requested, yes… the truth.”
Zeil replied, “Well… you would have killed me, then and there. I told you before, I’m not a spy, and I didn’t intend on even coming to this city. I’m on my way to the coast.”

As the two neared the large castle walls, Captain Rose easily lead Zeil passed the guards as they continued towards the castle doors, “The coast?...”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… I’m on my way back to the mare I love, so I have to travel to the coast the capital city of Prance, to be more specific.”
Captain Rose replied, “Prance? There is no such kingdom.”
Zeil have him a confused look, “What? Of course there is. The Prench border is only a few hours from here.”
The captain shook his head in pity, “Wow… and here I thought you were a mastermind of infiltration. You don’t even know of the neighboring kingdoms. Perhaps you’re nothing to fear after all… unless you turn out to be more of a danger on yourself then others.”
Zeil felt even more confused as the two now crossed into the castle doors and entered the corridor.

Before Zeil could reply, Captain Rose looked down the corridor as he called, “HEY YOU!!!”
Ahead, two soldiers were leaning against a doors talking as they both saw the captain and quickly moved to their positions on each side of the doorway as one spoke, “Y-yes Captain?”
Captain Rose approached the two soldiers as he looked at them, then at the door they were guarding, then back to them. “With the enemy outside the walls, Lilith is currentlyn on high alert. So let me remind you of your duties… Your job is to guard the throne room and to protect our queen… not to lounge about and dull your attentiveness with pointless chit chat!”
The soldier stood at attention as one replied, “Apologies captain, it won’t happen again.”
Captain Rose shook his head, “No… it won’t… otherwise both of you will spend the next three days in the stock. Understood?”
The soldier stood still as they both replied, “Yes sir!”
As Zeil saw the obedience of the soldiers he felt a little confused, He had heard stories of placing ponies in the stockade in the olden days but hearing of a kingdom that still had such punishments seemed odd. Either way, Zeil remained quiet as Captain Rose sighed, “You volunteers are untrained and indiscipline, I for one will not stand for this. You two should be grateful I have more pressing matters to attend to.”

The guards and Zeil kept silent as the captain looked back at the large doors as he spoke to Zeil, “Before we go in I want to warn you… I don’t know what heathen congregation of savages you drive from, so pay attention. When you address the queen it will be either your majesty or your grace. When we enter you may approach the throne but you will go no further than the bottom step of the alter. You will stop before that step and bow, and you will not rise from that bow until addressed. Furthermore you will not speak unless spoken to and prey you don’t interrupt her, otherwise you will have me to deal with and I’ll warn you now stripes, if you show even the slightest hint of deception or disrespect to our queen… I will not hesitate to spill your blood in her presence. Got it?”
Zeil rolled his eyes as he replied, “Sure… don’t worry I won’t do anything stupid.”
Captain Rose turned back to the doors as he replied, “You better not.”
After that was said, Captain Rose looked at the two nervous guards as he hesitated before speaking, “Well… Open the doors!!!”

Worried that they would anger him more, the guards quickly pushed open the doors to the throne room as Zeil and Captain Rose entered. As they trotted into the large room Zeil was surprised. Every throne room he had seen was pristine and magnificent but this one seemed less so. Rather than marble lining a segment of the walls or pillars, the entire room was made of stone. The walls were polished stone brick and the floor was smoothed stone tiles with a long red and blue carpet running down the center to the alter. The pillars holding the ceiling up were one solid cylinder of polished granite that held up a wooden roof high above with poorly made stained glass windows lining the room walls. The alter at the end of the room was three step up that were separated by at least two feet a piece, which led to two large wooden thrones. All in all the room didn’t look like this was a bad or poor kingdom, just widely outdated.

Slowly the two trotted down the throne room toward the alter at the end. When the doors opened the queen was pacing back and forth in front of the two thrones, but as she saw the doors open, she trotted to the right throne and sat down. After sitting, Zeil could see that now both thrones were filled, the right with the current queen of the kingdom, and the left with a crown symbolizing the king’s absence. Doing as he was told before, Zeil followed Captain Rose to the end of the throne room and stopped just before the first step which was about six feet from the thrones. Then following Captain Rose’s lead, he bowed in respect as Captain Rose spoke, “Your majesty I brought the zebra as you requested.”
The queen stood from her throne as she spoke, “Captain, I would ask you show simple courtesy to our guest. Mr. Zeil is in possession of a name after all.”
Captain Rose rose from his bow as he replied, “I will refer to him as stripes and nothing more. He has yet to earn the right to be addressed from me.”
Sighing in defeat, the queen replied, “Very well, I suppose little progress is better than none. Now… leave us.”

Zeil continued to hold his bow as the captain replied, “Leave you? But your maj-”
She interrupted, “I wish to speak with Mr. Zeil in private. So… I want you to leave us so that I may do so.”
Captain Rose took one step onto the alter as he replied, “Your majesty he can’t be truste-”
“Silence!” Captain Rose stepped back down as the queen replied, “Do you doubt my magic? Or is it my ability to defend myself for which you hold doubt?”
Captain Rose bowed in respect as he replied, “I hold no doubt for her majesty. Just as I understand and request forgiveness for stepping out of line.”
The queen nodded as she replied, “Very well, so long as you follow my instruction and trust in my judgment, you are forgiven, now leave us. So saith the queen.”
With that order, Captain Rose held his bow and replied, “Long Live the Queen.” He took one step back, then rose from his bow while turning to the doors before leaving the room, and closing the doors behind him.

As soon as the doors were closed, the queen sighed as she looked to Zeil and spoke, “I must apologies yet again for the disrespect of my captain. Such unruly behavior in a time such as this is troubling to say the least.”
Zeil rose from his bow more intimidated of the queen then before as he replied with as much resect as he could, “He is concerned for your safety your majesty. Since I’m new here, it’s only expected that he would be cautious since you are at a time of war.”
The queen smiled, “You are very forgiving Mr. Zeil, though it baffles me that such nobility has yet to be knighted.”
Zeil nodded, “Well, they don’t really knight others where I come from.”
The queen nodded, “All cultures have their ways, and it is that for which we must live in harmony with one another… as this kingdom’s founding principal, this is the one truth that we know.”

Zeil was confused but before he could reply, the queen turned back to her throne as she spoke, “Now to the matter of why I summoned you.” She sat in her throne, “My name is Queen Anna, High queen of Lilith and… recently widowed monarch to the throne. Since the moment you arrived her I ha-”
As the queen looked back to Zeil, she saw for a split second his eyes shift to the empty throne beside her and back as she stopped the current topic and continued, “My king… is no longer with us. I don’t know if you were informed but… a few days ago he and the majority of our forces set out to face the minotaur invaders before they could reach the kingdoms borders. But… when the two clashed in battle, he and his soldiers were quickly overwhelmed by the enemy. In a last effort to save his subjects, he stayed behind to hold off their retreat with only a small number of our best trained soldiers.” She looked down in sadness, “He…Perished that day on the battlefield.” The saddened queen sighed to collect herself as she continued, “Ten soldiers, were the only ones to return from that battle. Ten, out of seven thousand. A truly sad day for our kingdom.”

Zeil still couldn’t feel the alicorn’s sadness but it was obvious as he replied, “I’m sorry for your loss, I can’t say I know how it feels to lose somepony that close to you, but my situation doesn’t put me very fare from the same feeling.”
Realizing she may be sharing too much, the queen wiped her tear filling eyes as she spoke, “And… this brings us to why I summoned you here. Mr. Zeil, witnessing your abilities on today’s battle, and seeing the nobility of your actions has proven to me that I would be honored to have a soldier of your skill assisting in the defense of my kingdom. I understand this wasn’t your intention but I will assure you that you will be compensated for your assistance. You will be paid a mercinaries’ salary of ninety gemstones and upon this agreement, be hereby knighted as Sir Zeil of Lilith. What say you to this offer?”

Although he couldn’t feel her emotions Zeil still expected something like this since he was summoned by name to see the queen. However he already knew his answer as he replied, “I understand the situation you’re in your majesty, but… I have to decline your offer. This fight isn’t my own, and… I’ve taken a vow to never kill until I return to the mare I love so. I can only say no.”
Queen Anna seemed disappointed as she replied, “I see… one loyal to a vow. Then, I humbly aske that should you find yourself in battle, that you do not hinder the actions of my soldiers and assist in seeking refuge for yourself and the civilians around you. And so this meeting is concluded. You may leave.”
Surprised the queen didn’t try harder to convince him, Zeil replied, “Oh… um… okay… May I ask first… when may I be able to leave the city? I have a long journey to finish.”
The Queen hesitated before replying, “Sadly… I’m unsure. The minotaur soldiers cut down the surrounding forests and are guarding the city closely, so it’s unlikely they will allow passage in… or out of Lilith. I have dispatched a messenger phoenix to request a meeting with General Fist at dawn. But we won’t know for certain until… after he accepts my surrender.”
Zeil was surprised, “Surrender?”

Queen Anna nodded, “Yes… as much as it pains me to do so. We must offer our surrender in hopes that he will spare my kingdom and subjects. By offering both the relic and myself… I hope the minotaur kingdom will spare everypony and allow them a chance to live. Till then however, I would advise that you remain in the city until I can assure safe passage for you. I trust Edelweiss has provided you with temporary residence?”
Zeil nodded, “He did.”
The queen smiled, “Then I will request you remain patient. I understand how much this may burden you in your travels, but I wouldn’t suggest it unless I had your safety in mind.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I understand, thank you your majesty.”
Queen Anna nodded, “You are welcome, now if you will excuse me, my guards outside will escort you back into the city.”
Zeil bowed one last time as he replied, “Thank you your majesty and good luck on the negotiations tomorrow.”
Smiling at his polite words, Queen Anna nodded as Zeil took one step back before turning around, raising from his bow and leaving the throne room.

As Zeil exited the throne room and entered the corridor, he was met by the two door guards as one spoke, “Mr… um… Zebra? Is your meeting with the queen finished?”
Zeil nodded as the soldier replied, “Alright… then I’ll escort you out of the castle please fol-“
“That won’t be nessisary.”
At that moment both the guard and Zeil looked down the corridor as Edelweiss approached as he spoke, “Mr. Zeil and I have something to discuss regarding the residence he is currently staying in. While we talk, I’ll show him back to the city. After all, it would be best that you both remain at your post… less we risk angering Captain Rose further.”
Understanding the comment, the guard nodded, “Y-yea… right… As you were Edelweiss, we will trust this to you.”

Edelweiss smiled as he nodded at the comment before turning to Zeil, “Mr. Zeil?... Trot with me.”
As the cleaver scholar started trotting down the corridor, Zeil hesitated. He still couldn’t feel emotions or the presence of the ponies in this kingdom, but it didn’t take his changeling senses to know that the pegasus in front of him, had an ulterior motive to meeting him in the castle. Knowing this, Zeil decided to follow the older pegasus as he and the scholar made their way down the castles halls. As they trotted Zeil asked, “So… what is it you wanted to say? Must be important to come meet me at the castle.”
Edelweiss nodded, “It is… first I want to ask you… the queen made you an offer, to join her army and fight in defense of Lilith, did she not?”
Zeil was confused, “Wait… did you hear the conversation? I thought you arrived just now?”
Edelweiss nodded, “I did… but she always makes that offer… let me guess? Fight for her and be paid a mercinaries wage of ninety gemstones right?”
Confused, Zeil nodded, “Y-yea… she did but… how-”
“And your answer… what was it?”

Zeil still couldn’t feel his emotions, but he could naturally feel that the pegasi scholar was scheming something as he replied, “I said no.”
Edelweiss was surprised, “No?”
Zeil nodded, “No.”
Edelweiss replied with curiosity, “Really… Surprising… I had assumed that one with your nobility would have agreed to such a gracious plea. No doubt your reasoning for staying uninvolved is an important one. Moral or task driven?”
Zeil replied, “Actually… both. This isn’t my fight, so I had no intention on getting invo-”
At that moment, Zeil was interrupted as Edelweiss stopped in place and put his hoof in front of Zeil stopping him as the pegasus spoke, “Wait… stay quiet till they pass.”

Confused Zeil gave the pegasus a strange look as he started to hear somepony approaching from a crossing corridor ahead as he saw Captain Rose trotting through with another soldier as he spoke, “I don’t care if the soldiers need rest! The castle guards have been working for hours and the only ponies we have for relief are the soldiers that returned from the battlefield.”
As the two crossed Zeil and Edelweiss’s path, they didn’t notice them as the soldier replied, “Sir I only ask that you allow the soldiers returning from the field of battle to rest for a few hours before placing them on shift. I do not mean to leave the castle defenseless but if we over work them then it would be no better than leaving none to defend the city. The soldiers exited the corridor as Captain Rose replied without noticing Zeil or Edelweiss, “Fine… allow them time to rest, but don’t take too long. Our numbers are now half from yesterday, and… our defenses are scarce as is.”
As the two soldiers disappeared from sight, Edelweiss spoke, “Good… if they had seen us, we would have to deal with them for the next thirty minutes. And I don’t care to waste the time.”

Zeil gave Edelweiss a confused look as he spoke, “Captain Rose is really strict isn’t he?”
Edelweiss nodded as he continued leading Zeil down the hall, “Yes well… war does that to ponies. He wasn’t always this way… about fifty years ago he was a moderately nice stallion.”
Zeil’s confusion grew, “What? Exactly how old is he?”
The stallion stopped at a door as he replied, “I’ll explain soon… for now… I have to ask, the queen explained everything about our king, didn’t she?”
As the pegasus opened the door, Zeil replied, “Yes, she told me about the battle he died in a few days ago. About how he-”
Edelweiss and Zeil entered a large library as he replied, “About how he lead Lilith’s finest soldiers into a battle and sacrificed himself to save as many as he could when he found the minotaurs army to be too strong.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… a noble action for a king.”

Edelweiss trotted into a large open reading area of the library as he replied, “Noble… if he had known then… well… At least they only died once.”
As the two entered the open reading area, Zeil saw a large painting on the wall that showed both the king and queen of Lilith standing in front of their thrones. As he examined the painting Zeil remembered something. The queen of Lilith was the exact same as she was moments ago with her pink coat and silver mane. But the king was a very familiar alicorn with a white coat and solid black mane. As Zeil saw the king he suddenly remembered his vision as he spoke, “Wait… That stallion! Is that your king?”
Curious of Zeil’s surprise, Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… that is King Ma-”
“Matthias… King Matthias of Lilith… Right?”

Edelweiss was surprised that Zeil knew the kings name as he replied, “Y-yes… he is… But… how do you know his name?”
Zeil replied as he remembered every detail of his vision, “I had a vision yesterday… a vision of what I thought was the past… but it must have been future.”
Edelweiss was confused, “The future? How so?”
Zeil replied, “Your king… he isn’t dead. He’s alive.”
Edelweiss’s shock became more apparent, “Wh-what?”
Zeil replied, “I saw the future, I saw the day that the monitor attack the city. The king was sitting on the hill outside the city being forced by their general to watch. The general had him chained to a cart, and was gloating about attacking the city. I can’t remember exactly what was said… but… the one true fact that I took from that vision is that your king, is in fact alive, and is being held prisoner by the monitor general.”

Edelweiss tried to think over Zeil’s words as he replied, “But… it’s not possible… how could you possibly know this? How is it possible for an outsider who first enters the city to know this truth?”
As Zeil heard this, he was confused, “Wait… you knew?”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Yes… but that doesn’t matter now. Zeil… my queen was unable to convince you to join her fight, but… perhaps I can ask that you help me instead.”
Thinking he was being dragged back into the war Zeil shook his head, “Sorry but I already told your queen I have no intention on joining you. This war isn’t my fight and as bad as your situation is, I don’t want to help you win this war.”
Edelweiss shook his head, “I don’t want you to help us win this war… in fact it’s a complete loss, even now. What I want you to do, is to ensure that once we all die… once Lilith has fallen and is erased from history, that it remain that way.”
Zeil was shocked, “Wh-what?”
Edelweiss spoke with a determined tone as he replied, “Zeil… I want you to put an end to this endless war. I want to end the suffering that I and my subjects have endured every week for over three millennia. I want my subjects to finally rest in peace.”

Zeil gave Edelweiss a shocked look as he replied, “Y-your subjects?... wait… exactly… who are you?”
With that, Edelweiss gave a bracing sigh as he reached up and grabbed the turban on his head as he removed the rolled cloth and revealed a broken unicorn horn underneath. Showing fully that he wasn’t a pegasus as Zeil originally thought, he was an alicorn. As Zeil saw this, he could see a good resemblance between the scholar and the king in the painting as Edelweiss spoke, “Zeil… that vision you had wasn’t of the future… it was the past. I lived that day over thirty-three hundred years ago, and every year since. My name in truth its Matthias… King Matthias, First and true King of Lilith… as well as… its last.”

Outside the city, General Fist sat in his tent as he looked over a map of Lilith as a minotaur soldier entered and spoke, “General, I’ve come with a scouting report. We fo-“
The general interrupted without looking up from the map, “Did you find King Matthias?”
The soldier hesitated before replying, “Well… n-no sir. But we discovered a campsite on the side of the battlefield.”
The Curious general looked up from the map but didn’t move his head, “A campsite?”
The soldier nodded, “Yes sir, it was discovered during the battle. The resident abandoned the site and ran into the battlefield as soon as he was discovered.”
The general turned his head to the soldier, “And why is this a concern of mine?”
The soldier shook his head as he replied, “Well sir… when we searched the camp, we found this.”
At that moment the soldier handed general fist the mage’s spell book as the general looked at the marking on the cover in shock, “This… is this?…”
The general ran his fingers over the leather bound spell book as he spoke with a devious smile, “These symbols… this book, is written in the tongue of the Titans.”
The soldier asked, “Can you read it sir?”
The general nodded, “It’s been a while since I learned, but I remember enough to be able to understand it.”

The general looked at the symbols on the cover as he translated, “The Tome of the Ma-“
He paused as the lines and symbols on the cover started rearranging themselves making the rest illegible. As he saw this, the general’s expression became confused, “What?”
Seeing what happened, the soldier asked, “I-it changed?… Wh-whats that mean?”
The general smiled again as he ran his fingers over the new placement of the text, “That means… that a powerful spell is preventing us from reading this book.”
The soldier replied, “Is… this an effect from the pony relic?”
The general closed the book, “Don’t be a fool, this book is hiding a secret. A secret fare more superior then any mere relic is capable of… even a titan’s relic. Power like this… would please our king greatly.”
The soldier asked, “But… can you read it?”
The general thought to himself before replying, “You said the one at the campsite fled into the battlefield. Who was it?”

The soldier thought to himself, “According to the squad that discovered the site, it was a zebra that fled the area. Why?”
The general replied, “Because this zebra is the one who can read this book. The only one who can translate despite this spells effects.”
The general took the book with him as he left his tent and walked to the far end of the camp. As he reached the edge, he saw one of his soldiers standing next to a large pile of recovered weapons and armor as he called to the soldier, “You! You are in charge of the mortuary detail for the recent battle correct?”
The soldier stood at attention, “Yes sir I am.”
The general asked, “Did you recover a zebra corps on the battlefield today?”
The soldier shook his head, “A zebra? No sir, I don’t think so.”
The general thought to himself, “No… then he must be in Lilith.”

At that time another soldier approached, “General! Messenger phoenix from Lilith. The Queen Requests a meeting at dawn.”
The general smiled, “Then we have something to discuss.” He turned to the soldier and replied, “Respond to her message. Tell her we will agree to her meeting and expect to see her there.”
The soldier replied, “Yes sir, but there is more. Shortly before receiving the message, we collected a few civilians from Lilith who were trying to flee the city.”
The general nodded, “Alright then execute them ime-… actually… set up a tent for them. Give them food and a comfortable place to sleep. But be sure to keep them guarded… I have a plan for them, just in case the queen decided to be… difficult.” He looked down at the book in his hand, “I will learn the secret in this book… then I’ll destroy Lilith and all who reside there.”

Bk7/Ch3 The Curse of Lilith

Book 7/Chapter 3
The Curse of Lilith
(Year 4, month 5, day 21)

“This all started over three millennia ago. Can’t say for certain how many years exactly, but I’ve estimated over three thousand three hundred and fifty or so. Lilith was a new kingdom, and I along with my wife was chosen by the king and queen of Eden to rule it. It was… more or less… An experiment.”
The old alicorn sat at the table in the middle of the library reading area as Zeil replied in confusion, “An experiment?”
The alicorn nodded, “Yes… it was the generation before mine that wrote the first history books, and in their writings, there has always been one thing about all races that is true. That none can live together in peace.”
Zeil was skeptic as he replied, “Well… that seems a little pessimistic don’t you think?”

Edelweiss replied with a curious look, “Am I wrong? Can you say for curtain that all races live together in peace? Or that there is no form of prejudice in the world?”
Although Zeil didn’t want to admit it, before he could object to the alicorn’s words, the thought of what happened to him in Equestria silenced him as Edelweiss saw his pause and smiled, “You see… it is true. Some can be tolerant and many can follow their example. But no matter what anypony says or does, there will always be prejudice in the world. So long as two have their own opinions, one will always see himself better than the other. The king and queen of Eden saw this first, which is why they created borders and made the races live separately with their own kind. It kept their creations at peace and allowed us to live without fear of our fellow races. The pegasi had their tribe, the earth ponies had their farmlands, the unicorn had their kingdom, the griffin had their territories, and the alicorn had Eden.”
Zeil felt a little curious as he replied, “So… what was Lilith then?”

Edelweiss smiled as he replied, “Lilith was the first of its kind. A kingdom composed of all races in hopes of creating a united world. Sadly it lasted for a short time, about twelve years and we could look at our fellow ponies with confidence and trust. But… then we discovered the Relic.”
Zeil didn’t trust the story as he replied, “You say your fellow ponies? Why no griffin? And why are there only two alicorn when the kingdom is composed of all pony races?”
Edelweiss replied, “The test was to focus on ponies first, and then move on to adding more races. As for alicorn, the king and queen told us that the alicorn were meant only to rule. That living amongst them could cause… distrust. The law was that only an alicorn may hold the crown. Better that then to spark revolution or treason to claim the crown for themselves. If something were to happen to myself or the queen, then Eden would select and replace us with alicorn fit to rule. As was the law.”

Zeil saw the explanation as an excuse to his questions as he replies with distrust, “Okay… so what does that have to do with you?... If what you say is true, then you should be ancient. How are you still alive and why do you claim to be the King of Lilith?”
The Alicorn smiled at Zeil’s skepticism as he replied, “That is because of… the relic.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea, this relic… you’ve talked about it before. Mind telling me what it is?”
“On the eve of Lilith’s twelfth year, our subjects who were mining metal on the outskirts of our kingdom discovered a strange obelisk. There was no writing on it, nor any pictures or distinguishing markings what so ever, but on the surface was a deep crack that exposed its hollow inside. And inside, was a strange black pearl. We didn’t know what it was at the start, but once I held it in my hoof, I could feel a great power within it. We call these strange artifacts Relics. From my understanding there are three that I know of, one is an amulet in one of the pony kingdoms called the Alicorn amulet which enhances unicorn magic. There is another in the hippogriff’s care but Lilith fell before we could discover its power. Either way, as soon as we discovered this particular relic we sent a messenger to the Thunder peaks to seek guidance from the titan Raiden. Since geographically, he is the closest reachable Titan, we felt it best for him to discern what must be done with it. But somewhere along the road, our messenger was captured and forced to tell the minotaur king of his message. Seeking the power of the relic, the minotaur king demanded we hand over the relic or prepare for war.”
Zeil was confused, “Raiden? Titan of the forest and storm right? But I thought that titan was dead?”

Edelweiss nodded, “Well in your time that may be so. But in my time, all titans were still around, and it was even believed that they couldn’t be killed. To speak of such things was blasphemy after all. Anyways, since the minotaur king had bad relations with his titian, I felt it would be in our best interest to refuse them in handing over the relic, for fear that he my commit such blasphemy. So in response he declared war. We tried sending a message to Eden to ask for support, but the minotaur king established a blockade that prevented any messenger from reaching Eden, so… we were on our own. In desperation I and my strongest soldiers set out to meet General Fist in his assault, but as you know, we were defeated. In an effort to save my soldiers I ordered a retreat and stayed behind to fight them off. But, I miscalculated and found myself captured and kept a short distance from his main force, just so he could force me to watch as my kingdom fall to his troops.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… I saw that in my vision, you watched most of the battle then was about to be dragged back to their camp before escaping from your chains. But then when you were traveling back to the city there was a bright flash of light… then… the battlefield became barren.”

The knowledgeable alicorn turned to the large painting in the room as he looked at the royal ponies, “Yes… that light was the relic being activated. My queen became desperate in her final minutes, so she activated the relic in hopes of saving the kingdom, but… I’m afraid she condemned them all to this curse instead. After the kingdom vanished, I was knocked unconscious with a strike that shattered my horn. When I awoke, the remaining minotaur forces questioned me about what happened. They even resorted to torture in hopes of forcing me to tell them where their army vanished too, but… I didn’t know. With nothing to go on, the remaining forces took me back to their kingdom and held me in the dungeon for almost ten years. It would have been longer, but something very big happened. Their titan heard of their genocide of Lilith and became enraged. With his power of darkness, he laid waste to the Minotaur Kingdom and nearly brought them to extinction themselves. With their kingdom collapsed and their king executed, I was free to leave and return to my home which by this time was reduced to ruins. Weakened and alone, I made a vow to remain in those ruins for the rest of my days. A bridled reminder of the failure of a king and husband I turned out to be. But a few months later on the anniversary of Lilith’s demise, I awoke in a kingdom reborn. The buildings, the ponies, everything was as it was, the week before Lilith was destroyed. To include, the army that awaited to attack the city. Frantic, I rushed to my queen’s side but I was only met with utter confusion. With my decade of imprisonment, my body and appearance took a change that made my claim highly improbable. So much in fact that I was only met with disbelief in my confessions.”
Zeil nodded, “I’d agree with them… to be honest I’m skeptic myself. So what happened next?”

Edelweiss sighed as he sat down as rubbed his head in irritation, “Well… I found out why they didn’t believe me. Whatever happened the day Lilith disappeared, recorded every event from the previous five days. Everything repeated exactly as it did that very day. From the battle on the first day, to the negotiations the following morning, all the way to the kingdom’s attack on the final day and the pearl’s reactivation that followed. But when the time came that the queen, I, and a majority of the surviving ponies took refuge in the castle, the queen decided to use the relic, and I naturally objected knowing what would happen if she did. Sadly it didn’t help. With no pony believing my explanation the queen used the relic and the remaining survivors, myself in included, were absorbed into the light and vanished into thin air. The next thing I knew, I awoke here in this library with memories as if I were selected by the Queen of Eden to live here as a scholar of this kingdom. But, the magic in my broken horn shorted out whatever enchantment corrupted my mind, so even though I knew myself to be the kingdom’s scholar, I also knew myself to be its king. And I also held the memories of the year prior”
Zeil was confused, “Year prior?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… when I awoke, it was on the anniversary of Lilith’s destruction one year later. And to make the matter worse, Everypony held memories that I was the scholar of this kingdom so admitting I was its king only made my story less believable. With this I discovered the relic’s true purpose. Every year on the anniversary of its activation, the relic claims all life in Lilith and repeats Lilith’s final days before its destruction. And anypony trapped in the city on the final day, vanish with the rest of the city upon the relics reactivation.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Meaning?…”

The alicorn replied, with a serious tone, “Meaning if you are within the city’s borders when the pearl reactivates, then you too will become trapped within its curse. You will awaken here with memories that tell you that, you have lived in this city since its founding. You will believe whatever memories are in your mind, and you will forget everything and everypony you’ve known before now.”
Zeil did feel slightly nervous that the alicorn’s story was true however he felt more skeptic then anything as he replied, “So in short… you are the king of this kingdom, you and everypony here are trapped in a repeating curse and unless I help you by the time the curse repeats itself, I will become trapped here and forced to relive the same five days for the rest of time. Do I have all that right?”
The claimed king smiled, “Yes… and I’m assuming you don’t believe me… do you?”
Zeil didn’t answer, instead he only have the alicorn a dumb look as the scholar shrugged his shoulders, “I can’t say I blame you. I’ll admit if one approached me on what would seem to be a normal day, claimed himself to be a monarch of my kingdom, and that my life was trapped in an endless cycle of war and death, then I too would be skeptic. But whether you believe who I am or not, the truth is that you are in grave danger, and I hope you will help me save not only yourself, but also the entire kingdom of Lilith.”

Zeil felt concerned about what he was told, he knew that this kingdom was different from anyplace he had been to before, and that it was probably the reason his changeling senses weren’t working, however, he still thought there was more to it as he replied, “You want me to help you smash the relic then?”
Edelweiss chuckled, “Smash it? You think that in the thirty-three hundred years I’ve been trapped that I haven’t considered that already? I’ve smashed it, I’ve burned it, grinded it into dust and scattered its remains to the four corners of the city. I’ve launched it out of the city on a catapult, sold it to the minotaur general, I’ve even crushed it and eaten the pieces just to see if that would be any different. But no… No matter what way I have destroyed that trinket, the reset happens again and again all on the same day at about the same time. However about two centuries ago, I discovered something different.”
Despite his skepticism, Zeil replied, “Different?”
The Alicorn nodded as he trotted to a bookshelf and grabbed a book as if he already memorized exactly which one he needed as he trotted back to the table and sat it down, “Every year, the relic activates at about the same time on the same day, but… a few centuries ago, I noticed that the wave of light emitted by the pearl didn’t come from the castle where it is stored. In fact I paid more attention to it the last few times and pinpointed its origin.” He opened the book to reveal a map of the city as he placed his hoof on the southern part of the city “The light came from this area. I can’t say which building, because it is different every time. But I know for a fact that this is the origin of the light and where the reset starts from.”
Zeil looked at the book as he replied, “So… the relic’s magic comes from somewhere outside the castle?”

Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Yes… in fact, I have a theory. I believe that the day the relic was activated, it not only reset the city, but it created a copy of itself.”
Zeil was confused, “A copy? Can it really do that?”
The alicorn nodded, “Yes, it created a duplicate so that the real pearl can be hidden somewhere in the city, and reactivated with no need for protection.”
Zeil nodded, “So we find the real relic and we stop the reset right?”
The alicorn shook his head, “No… we find the user.”
“User?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes, even if duplicated the relic would still need one to activate it. So I believe it corrupted the mind of one of my subjects and is using him or her to activate it at the same time every year. As well as move it should one get close to discovering its true location.”
Zeil thought to himself, “So… there is a traitor in your kingdom then right? Erm… somepony who is casing the reset?”
The alicorn nodded, “Yes, and I’ve narrowed it down. The only pony who could be hiding the pearl is one who was a subject in my kingdom before the first reset, and one who is unaccounted for when the rest of the kingdom is being held in the castle on the last day.”

Zeil thought to himself as only one name came to mind, “Compass Rose?”
The alicorn shook his head, “No… Compass Rose came to this city about fifty years ago before being trapped here, so it’s not him.”
Zeil tried again, “Did… you ever consider your queen?”
Edelweiss’s expression sank as he sat down in a chair and replied, “I did… but… I found out it wasn’t her.”
Zeil couldn’t sense his emotions, but it was obvious that whatever means he used to come to the conclusion weren’t good as he asked, “How… do you know?”
Edelweiss shook his head as he replied, “Trust me… I know.” He gave a bracing sigh to remove the dark thoughts, “I’ve investigated practically every pony in the city, but… now I’ve narrowed it down to only one.”
Zeil asked, “Who?”
The alicorn’s anger showed, “Dr. Grey.”
Zeil was surprised, “Wait… the Medic?”

Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… I’ve kept track of all the ponies in the castle for the past few years on the final day, and every time, he along with a few others aren’t present. I’ve discovered where the others were be that dead or otherwise, but Dr. Grey is the one pony I never see anywhere during those final moments. So… it has to be him.”
Seeing the obvious anger Zeil asked, “So, you’re sure then?”
Edelweiss trembled in rage, “Yes… to think that one whom we trusted with our very lives is the one causing so much pain for my subjects… it sickens me.”
Zeil replied, “And… where do I fit in all this?”
Edelweiss replied with a serious tone, “That to be decided… should you help, I would like you to assist in keeping track of Dr. Grey’s movements. That and… I wish for you to tell me a little about what’s happening beyond the walls.”
Zeil was confused, “Beyond the walls?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… though I remain here year by year, I realize the world is forever changing beyond our cities borders, so the only way I know of the world beyond the walls, is by those who travel here. One thing for example…”
Edelweiss trotted to a nearby window as he looked outside and could see the moon beginning to rise to begin the night as he continued, “What has happened to the moon?”

Zeil replied with curiosity, “The moon? What do you mean?”
Edelweiss continued, “It lasted for more then a few centuries, but there was an indention of an alicorn on the moon’s surface for a long time. When I asked a few new residents they told me that the royal princess of the night betrayed her sister and was imprisoned in the moon for her crime. Then a few years ago, the impression vanished. Am I to assume the royal princess returned from her prison?”
Zeil nodded, “You mean Princess Luna of Equestria? Yes she did.”
Edelweiss smiled, “I see, when I asked how the royal sisters were, you said they were fine so I’m assuming they made up and continue to rule together as they did before?”
Zeil nodded but didn’t say anything as Edelweiss looked out the window and held his smiled as he spoke softly, “I’m glade… maybe… there is hope after all.”
Zeil didn’t hear him clearly as he asked, “What was that?

As Edelweiss shook his head as he looked back to Zeil, “It’s nothing… So… you’ve heard my story and what I ask of you. Will you help me?”
Zeil was still skeptic as he tried to think over his answer. Seeing his hesitation Edelweiss smiled, “I see, you still don’t believe me. Or at least, you’re unsure since you didn’t turn me down immediately”
Zeil replied, “I can’t say it’s impossible since I had a recent… paradox based issue a few weeks ago, but you understand why it’s hard to believe. Maybe I just need some time to think.”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Then feel free to take all the time you need. I can show better proof in the morning, but at this time. There will be nothing more to show or tell you.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “So I can give you my answer later then?”
Edelweiss replied with a peaceful smile, “Of course, you’re not the first I’ve asked, and for those who turned me away, I hold no ill will towards. Just know that the attack will be in four days, so if today is Monday as it was in my time, then the day of the attack will fall on the morn of Friday. But I will ask… what day is it on this year?”
Zeil replied, “Its Wednesday… so I’m guessing the attack will be on Sunday?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Indeed it will… then I have nothing more to speak with you about. Do you know how to leave the castle?”
Zeil nodded as Edelweiss replied, “Then I will allow you to leave on your own. The captain should be in the city at this time, and the castle guards are too tired to do anything if they see you. So as long as you move toward the castle gates, no pony will be the wiser.”

Zeil nodded as he turned towards the library doors and exited the room, “Well, I guess I’ll see you later then.”
“Tomorrow Mr. Zeil… Tomorrow, I will have more proof and a way to reveal just how dire the situation is. Till then, I hope you rest well.”
Edelweiss turned back to the royal painting and waited for Zeil to leave. As Zeil left the castle, Zeil thought to himself about everything he was told. If the story was true, then he needed to help Edelweiss to know how to stop the reset from happening, but if it wasn’t then his best option was to avoid the potentially dangerous alicorn. Never the less, he knew he was given time to decide and he wanted to try and see what Rafi would say about the option. However that night, as Zeil tried to meditate he was unable to enter his usual trance. He didn’t understand it entirely, but Zeil could only assume that if Edelweiss’s story was true, than the relic was somehow preventing him from seeing his spiritual guide, not to mention his inability to sense emotions and auras around him. Zeil could only wonder why this was happening, and what action he should take next.

The next morning, Zeil woke up moderately early since he knew the queen was going to have her meeting with the Minotaur general so he wanted to be there when they were finished. As Zeil exited the temporary home, he was surprised to see Edelweiss sitting in a chair on the building’s porch as the disguised alicorn smiled, “Strange to see you out this early, it was my understanding that your generation was prone to waking later in the morning.”
Zeil gave the scholar a skeptic look, “You say that as if you’re some old timer lecturing me about foals in this day and age.”
Edelweiss smiled as he shrugged his shoulders, “Well I am old, practically a living fossil… but that’s beside the point. Now… about your answer.”
Annoyed Zeil replied, “You don’t beat around the bush do you?”
Edelweiss nodded, “As I said, my generation is less patient to get down to tasks.”
Zeil sighed, “I can’t say I believe you yet, but if anything I only need a little more proof.”
Edelweiss nodded, “I understand then, how about this. Why not ask three for the day of the week.”
Zeil was curious, “Day of the week?”

Edelweiss smiled as he stood from the chair and stepped off the porch, “Yes, as I said before, in my time, yesterday’s battle was on a Monday… while in your time, if I’m not mistaking you said it was a Wednesday correct? So following what I said, if you asked anypony in the city, whose memories are in repeat of the year the war took place, then they would say that today is Tuesday, while in your time, its Thursday.”
Zeil nodded, “I guess...”
The alicorn smiled, “Then feel free to choose and ask anypony you see today of what day it is, I say three since it’s a common number to use for deliberation, but you may ask however many you feel comfortable with. Just remember that they all know of the world as it was back when, so I would hope you forgive anypony for saying something strange.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
Edelweiss smiled as he started trotting down the street, “Let’s just say, the times change in ways we wouldn’t expect. The past is forgotten and the future is unseen. Well… most of the time.”
Zeil thought to himself as he followed and mumbled, “Tell me about it.”

Although Edelweiss heard him clearly, he chose not to ask about the unusual comment and just continue leading Zeil through the city to the main gate. As Zeil thought about the situation that brought up his comment, he immediately realized something crucial as he paused and mumbled too quietly for the scholar to hear, “The book…”
Edelweiss stopped a few paces ahead of him as he tuned and replied, “What was that?”
Zeil looked at him and shook his head, “Oh… n-nothing…”
Keeping his situation to himself, Zeil continued while hiding his worry. Although he was worried about it, he still knew that this could be what proves the mage’s claim. If all goes as it should, the book will find its way back into his hooves and prove the mages claim. But if it truly was fake, then by continuing his current situation he may never actually see the book again. Then again, this also brought up the worry that he may be required to seek it out which only added to the headache that the whole mage situation had originally brought him.

Seeing his concern Edelweiss spoke, “Is something wrong?”
Zeil decided to forget it as he shook his head, “No… its nothing. So, where are we going?”
Edelweiss replied, “To the main gate, I’m sure you want to be there when the queen begins her meeting with General Fist. They always do.”
Zeil gave the disguised alicorn a strange look, “They? You’re talking about new arrivals to the city right?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes, There have been many new arrivals that all were trapped just as I was, they go to the gate in hopes that the negotiations for surrender go well so they can leave the city.”
Zeil was curious, “So… do they?”
Edelweiss’s pace slowed slightly as he replied with a dark tone, “No… in fact… they go as badly as they possibly could.”
Seeing his depression, Zeil replied, “Really? How so?”
Edelweiss replied, “Let’s just say… Some soldiers fight with honor… but that concept escapes the Minotaur Kingdom.”

Zeil had no idea what he was talking about, but he could tell that whatever was about to happen wasn’t good for anypony. As they continued, the two looked forward to see what looked to be a parades style crowd up ahead as it lined the main road leading to the main gate. As they approached the herd, Edelweiss spoke with a demanding tone, “Make way, royal Scholar coming through.”
The ponies who saw him stepped aside as one spoke, “Of course, beg your pardon sir.”
As the herd opened up, Zeil could see the Queen, Compass Rose, and a few soldiers making their way towards the city’s main gate as Edelweiss looked back to Zeil and spoke, “You wait amongst the herd. No offence, but since you are new to the city and haven’t been knighted, you would be considered lower classed, and… it’s improper for one of lower status to approach the queen so casually.”
Knowing that he should follow their customs, Zeil nodded as he stayed amongst the herd while Edelweiss approached the queen’s party. As he stood there, Zeil couldn’t help but look at one of the nearby ponies as he spoke, “Excuse me? What day is it today?”
The pony gave him a dumb look as he replied, “Um… Tuesday”
Zeil sighed, “Of course it is.”

Out in the middle of the main road, Edelweiss approached the queen as he spoke, “Good morning your majesty… I assume you’re going out to meet with the Minotaur general?”
Keeping her pace as she continued down the street, the queen replied, “Good morning Edelweiss. Yes, I intend on putting an end to the blood shed whilst there is still time. Are you intending on being present for negotiations?”
Captain Rose Spoke up, “With all due respect your majesty, I would advise that he stay in the city where it’s safe. The battlefield is no place for a book worm.”
Queen Anna looked to her captain and spoke in an annoyed tone, “Captain… you shouldn’t speak ill of the royal scholar, true he may not be a soldier, but he is still a trusted member of my court and one of my most trusted advis-”
“No, no, He is right your majesty. The battlefield is no place for an intellectual such as myself. Though I will anxiously await your return at the gate. You always hold my trust and my respect, whatever the outcome, just know that I will always support you my queen.”
Smiling at Edelweiss’s words, Queen Anna spoke, “Yes, thank you Edelweiss. Know that you have my trust as well.”

Bowing slightly, Edelweiss stopped following the group as the Queen, Captain Rose and their small squad of troops continued down the street towards the City gates. After they broke from each other Zeil approached Edelweiss as he spoke, “Now that you told me, I do see a better connection between you and the queen. A sort of, unspoken trust…”
Edelweiss smiled, “More like a bond between lovers, one that even an erased memory cannot break.”
The scholar looked into the parade crowd that was watching the queen’s party as he saw Dr. Grey standing on the side watching with little concern as the queen approached the city gates. After the queen approached the large doors, the massive gate opened as Queen Anna exited the city alongside her party of five soldiers and their captain. After the royal mare and her guards exited the city, the massive doors closed as Edelweiss watched Dr. Grey leave the herd and trot to his street side field hospital as Edelweiss spoke, “Zeil… want more proof of my story’s truth, remember these numbers, seven hundred six, one fifty three, twenty two, and he will miscount the last number, but the number he will be looking for is one hundred seventy-five.”

Zeil started to ask as Edelweiss trotted back towards the crowds, “What are those numbers supposed to be?”
Edelweiss replied as he continued, “The death toll…”
Confused by Edelweiss’s serious expression, Zeil quickly caught up to the disguised alicorn as they trotted through the dispersing herd and towards the curbside field hospital that sat right next to the city’s main gate. As they approached the series of tents and their doctor that was entering, Edelweiss called, “Dr. Grey!”
Hearing his name, the blue unicorn stopped before entering the tent as he turned to Edelweiss and replied, “Oh Edelweiss… here to get our count are you?”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Yes, as expected the the queen wants our numbers from yesterday’s battle and as the royal scholar and record keeper, it is my duty to attain those numbers and to report them directly to her majesty. I’m to assume you stabilized all casualties from yesterday?”
Dr. Gray turned and entered the tent as Zeil and Edelweiss followed. After entering the field hospital, Zeil could see the long rows of stretchers each with ponies bearing an assortment of bandaged wounds as the Dr. Grey replied, “As you can see… the numbers of survivors is far less then losses, but I sent the ones with minor wounds home to be with their families. In these trying times, I think they deserve as much.” As the doctor trotted through the tent, a nurse approached as she gave him a clipboard with the exact numbers. As the doctor looked through the tally he spoke, “The battle took a serious toll, last night I admitted seven hundred and six patients. One hundred and fifty three died of their wounds, and twenty two died over night, so in all not counting those lost on the battlefield the death toll is one hundred seventy-four.”

Edelweiss looked down one of the rows of wounded as he replied, “One seventy five…”
Zeil was surprised with the accuracy of Edelweiss’s earlier count as Dr. Grey flipped to another page on his clipboard and he nodded, “Oh right… I was mistaken. Leave it to the royal scholar to do the math without even looking at the numbers.”
Edelweiss replied with a careless tone, “Part of the job… and what of Sourdough? I’m sure Mr. Zeil would like to know his status as well.”
Dr. Grey’s expression became saddened as he replied, “Sourdough passed last night. We were able to remove the arrowheads from his side, but I think one grazed his heart and caused internal bleeding. When we checked him this morning, I’m afraid he was already gone.”
Surprised by the news, Zeil replied with a disappointed tone, “Oh… I… I’m sorry to hear that.”
Dr. Grey nodded, “A lot of good decent ponies died yesterday… and… I wish this mess could have been avoided. You would think that the quee-… never mind… far be it for me to speak ill of her royal majesty.”

Though there was tension in his tone, Edelweiss seemed passive as he replied, “You shouldn’t feel so concerned with questioning the crown. After seeing so much blood and death for so long a time, it’s common to question one’s loyalty.”
Dr. Grey seemed confused, “So long a time?”
Without acknowledging his confusion, Edelweiss replied, “Well, it’s about time for the meeting between the queen and general to begin. Come Mr. Zeil, we can observe from atop the castle walls.”
With no concern, Edelweiss continued through the tent to exit out the back as Zeil followed leaving Dr. Grey behind with a confused expression. As Zeil stepped out of the tent he wanted to ask why Edelweiss seemed so hasty but as he exited out the back entrance of the field hospital, Zeil paused with shock as he found himself standing at the start of a seemingly endless formation of covered corpses. Frozen in shock, Zeil stood looking at the rows of bodies as Edelweiss called from a small staircase to the side as he spoke, “Mr Zeil?”
Snapping out of it, Zeil looked to the stone stairs that lined the inside of the castle’s walls as Edelweiss spoke, “This way…”

With only a few steps from the hospital exit to the stairs Zeil was able to close the distance between them as he followed Edelweiss up to the top of the wall. As they reached the top, a guard called to them, “YOU! You’re not allowed up here Zebra!”
Edelweiss spoke, “It’s alright… he is with me. This is a student of mine come for a visit and seeking more knowledge about book keeping. He is here to observe the importance of political discussions.”
It was obvious that the guard was clueless on what Edelweiss said as he hesitated before replying, “Um… well… as long as he is with you sir… then it’s okay.”
Leaving the two alone, Edelweiss looked outside the city as he and Zeil saw the queen approaching General Fist on a hill that was easily a halfway point between the minotaur camp and Lilith. As the two watched, Zeil had to ask, “Sourdough… you knew he died last night didn’t you… and you asked him so I would find out myself…right?”
Edelweiss nodded, “I guessed you were curious yourself. Weather that was true or not, it didn’t matter. He died, just like last year and the year before. For three millennia.”
Zeil asked, “So this happens every year, and you remember because of your broken horn, but does anypony else?”

Edelweiss shook his head, “No, no matter how hard I try or who I ask, no pony knows anything about what happened after Lilith was destroyed. I would assume that the only ones who hold memories of the time prior are myself, and Dr. Grey.”
Zeil asked, “And you’re sure it’s him? He is the one with the real relic?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… I’ve checked every living pony in this city and every single one was accounted for prior to the relic’s activation. In my best guess, it has to be one who was present when the pearl was activated the very first time all those centuries ago. Meaning it has to be a pony, and those who were trapped after that first time, aren’t involved. Dr. Grey is the only one who could have the real relic. And that’s why I need to know where he is hiding it before he can use it again.”
Zeil replied, “It seemed to me that he didn’t know anything. He was confused when you hinted that yesterday’s battle happened before.”
Edelweiss replied with anger, “Don’t be swayed by his act. He will most likely play dumb until we find evidence that he is lying. Remember, the relic is controlling him, and he will do everything to keep it safe before reactivating it.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Sure… I guess so…” Zeil looked to see a guard passing in his patrol as he spoke, “Excuse me, I’m a fool for dates, but, do you know what day it is?”
The guard gave him a confused look as he replied, “Well its Tuesday.”
Zeil nodded, “Right… of course it is.”
Edelweiss could only smile at Zeil’s reaction as he looked out into the inactive battlefield at the meeting that was taking place as Zeil decided to do the same.

Out on the dormant battlefield, Queen Anna, Captain Rose, and a few of their soldiers were approaching General Fist and a few of his soldiers on a hill that was half way between his camp and the trapped city. As the two parties approached each other, General Fist smiled in a welcoming manner, “Well if it isn’t the great pony queen of Eden. To what do I owe this honor of being summoned by such a mare of your… stature? Nothing bad I hope.”
Angered by his words Captain Rose started stepping forward, “Why you pompous son of-”
The queen put her hoof in front of him as she spoke, “Captain… Know your place.”
Captain Rose stepped back as Queen Anna looked to General Fist as the general smiled, “Well, well, I thought you ponies were always singing, laughing, and hugging one another. To see one bear his fangs is surprising if not a little… pathetic.”
Trying to hold his anger back, Captain Rose glared at General Fist as Queen Anna spoke, “General… first I would like to thank you for this opportunity to speak with me on neutral grounds.”
General Fist smiled in a gloating manner, “How could I not? We are guests in your kingdom, I felt it was the least I could do… but, tell me… why did you wish to speak with me?”

Queen Anna gave a bracing sigh as she used her magic to remove her crown and hover it at eye level between the two leaders. Then she gently sat it on the ground between them as she took a step back, then bowed, “General Fist, of the minotaur kingdom? I, Queen Anna of Lilith, herby surrender my crown, my kingdom, and myself to you. In hopes that it may serve you. All I ask, is that you have mercy on my subjects and allow them to leave here with their lives. Of this I beg, as Queen of Lilith.”
After the queen bowed to him, the rest of her party followed suit as General Fist took this time to marvel at the groveling royal in front of him. Smiling, General Fist replied with only one word, “… No.”
Surprised Queen Anna looked up from her bow as she replied, “Wh-what?”
General Fist smiled as he stepped passed the queen and looked upon Lilith as he replied, “Such a simple kingdom you have here… established on what used to be minotaur lands… forcibly taken by that traitorous titan of ours.”
Raising from her bow the Queen turned to the General as she replied, “You’re speaking of Lu-“
“Don’t even speak his name… That right is earned by his own creations. Of which… he turned his back on.”

Queen Anna spoke in defense, “Your titan didn’t turn his back on you. Like the rest he cares for his creations. The reason he allotted this land was in hopes of unifying the world to create a better life for all creatures under his and all other titan’s rule. He knew that his reputation as the titan of darkness would scare the races into working together for survival. It’s that reputation tha-”
“That made him into a coward. He should have been focusing on using his reputation to rule the ponies, not to befriend them. His power alone would have slain your king and queen and driven your kind to do our bidding, instead he stoops to your level for this so called… greater good.”
The queen shook her head, “I don’t believe that… After meeting him face to face, I don’t see him as the creature of darkness that all others fear. If anything, his balance alone pro-”
The minotaur waved his had dismissively as he interrupted yet again, “Enough of this… he lost our respect the day he showed his true weakness… Love is something that a Titan shouldn’t feel. It made him weak just as it did the king and queen of Eden. As it also did… for your King.”
Holding back her anger, the proper queen replied, “What you perceive as weakness, I see as strength.”

General Fist smiled, “Ah… that’s right, the king was the strong one in your relationship right?... how touching, after all… he was the superior race was he not?”
The queen felt nervous, “What?”
General Fist gave her an insulting glance, “Tell me, is it true? Where you truly a low creature turned alicorn by his magic? That’s right, you fell in love with him only because you understood that he can change you from a lowly pegasus, into an alicorn. And now with him gone, you realize the truth… That you are weak no matter what form you take.”
The general smiled at his provoking words as he waited for her to react with hostility, however it was her captain that reacted first as he spoke, “Shut you mou-“
“Captain, stand down! Your Queen speaks!”
Stopping his words, Captain Rose recoiled as Queen Anna Replied, “What you say is true… I was the daughter of a pegasi commander. Driven from home because of my love for an alicorn. Just as Matthias was driven from his. But it’s because of his love and spell that I hold this form. A spell so complex as to grant the power and appearance of an alicorn to any pony be that earth, pegasi, or unicorn. And if not for the words and alliance between your titan and mine, we would hold no place in either kingdom. But that only proves that to be here, is the will of both our titans.”

Disappointed that the queen didn’t react with more hostility, General Fist replied with a careless tone, “Weather it be their will or your own… it doesn’t matter.” He walked passed her again and looked towards his army camp as he sighed before speaking with a mellow tone, “Three days.”
The queen was confused, “Three days?”
The minotaur nodded, “Yes… Today is Tuesday… on the morning of Friday, just as the sun lights the sky, I will launch my final charge. My order… to lay siege to Lilith, to destroy the city, its queen, and its subject… and to leave none to tell the tale.”
The queen was shocked, “No! You can’t! My subjects are innocent! Please I beg you, grant them mercy!”
General fish smiled, “I did… I’m giving you three days to enjoy what lives you have left. I will launch no charge or skirmish to cause fighting between us till that morning, but… if I see any of your subjects leave the city, they will be punished severely… before suffering a torturous death.”
The worried queen pleaded, “I beg you… is there nothing to change your mind?”
General Fist shook his head, “My apologies, but this order comes directly from my king… and your captain knows all too well what it means to follow your monarch’s orders.”

Captain Rose sneered at the general, but said nothing as he understood the comment. Despite its truth however, the queen continued her plea, “There must be something I can do to see to your mercy. If needed, Take me as a prisoner and present me before your king. Perhaps I can negotiate for the lives of my subjects.”
General Fist replied, “My orders are set and my officers will carry them out… Unless…”
Feeling hopeful Queen and a spoke, “Unless?...”
General Fist smiled sinisterly, “I spotted something interesting while looking upon your city just now… a certain… creature amongst your kingdom that… Didn’t belong.”
Confused, Queen Anna looked back towards Lilith as she saw both Edelweiss and Zeil standing on top of the perimeter wall as her expression showed that she understood what he was saying. Seeing this, General Fist smiled, “You see it don’t you?... That Zebra.”
The Queen Nodded, “I do… what of him?”

Taking the opportunity General Fist spoke, “Bring him to me alive… and I might spare your kingdom?”
Surprised by the offer the queen looked at General Fist in shock, “What?”
The general continued, “You heard me right your majesty, you bring him to me… and I’ll consider turning my armies away and spare you all.”
As the queen thought about the offer, Captain Rose stepped forward, “Done!”
The queen gave her subornment an angry look, “CAPTAIN!”
Backing away, Captain Rose silenced himself as the queen replied with a skeptic tone, “This Zebra… why is he so important to give such a generous offer? Who is he to you?”
The general quickly thought up a lie, “Would you believe… he is a criminal? One who has committed a serious crime and… who deserves to see justice’s will be done?”
The queen continued, “What crime?”
The general replied with hesitation, “Well… that’s our business. Just know that since he isn’t your subject this offer should be easy for you.”
Seeing his obvious lie, the Queen looked back at Lilith as she replied, “It’s because he isn’t my subject that makes it more difficult to decide.”

Back in Lilith, both Zeil and Edelweiss could see the two leaders looking in their direction as Edelweiss’s expression became nervous, “Something is wrong.”
Zeil replied, “What?”
“They are taking too long out there… by now the queen would be on her way back but… she isn’t… something has change. Something different from the last few years, but what? And… how will it affect the events to come?”
Back out on the battlefield, General Fist smiled, “Why is it so hard? He doesn’t belong to your kingdom so his life shouldn’t hold any real value to you.”
The Queen replied, “If I forfeit his life so simply, it would be no different than abducting a subject from a neighboring kingdom.”
Remembering Zeil’s Words, Captain Rose started to speak, “Your majesty, he said so himself that he belongs to no ki-”
Not wanting the general to know, Queen Anna interrupted, “Captain, cease your interloping on our discussion. This is your final warning. So saith the Queen!”

As Captain Rose silenced himself, the distraught queen took a second to gather her thoughts before looking back to General Fist and replying, “General… as gracious as your offer is, this matter requires further deliberation. Would it be possible for me to postpone my decision until I had more time to consider it?”
General Fist smiled as he replied, “If you must, then do so. You may send your response through currier phoenix, but remember one thing your majesty… Friday is when I choose to launch my attack, and I will do so, weather I have your answer or not.”
The queen replied, “And should I turn him over to you prior?”
The general smiled, “You have my word your majesty, you deliver the zebra to me, and your subjects will be taken care of.”
With that said the queen nodded, “Then I will consider your proposal and have an answer for you before that time.”
General Fist nodded, “Then this concludes our meeting. Take care your majesty, and remember, I won’t let any leave the city… so it will be in your best interest to… contain your subjects, hence they may meet and end most unfortunate.”
With his warning seeming closer to a threat, Queen Anna gave General Fist a concerned look as General Fist turned away without concern as he left the queen in her state of confusion. As the general made his way back to his camp he looked to his subornment and spoke, “Is everything prepared?”
The soldier nodded, “Yes sir, the prisoners are chained and ready for display.”
The general smiled, “Good.”
Without hearing the general’s words to his soldier, Queen Anna put her crown back onto her head and began trotting back towards the city while trying to hide the disappointment of her meeting’s results.

Back on the city wall, Zeil and Edelweiss watched as the Queen’s party turned from the meeting area and started on their way back to Lilith. As they trotted back Edelweiss looked towards a hill that was closer to the city as he pointed, “Zeil… look there.”
As Zeil looked in the area that Edelweiss was looking he saw a few Minotaur working on a nearby hill as they were seen digging a few holes in the ground. Confused Zeil asked, “What are they doing?”
Edelweiss sighed, “Preparing the ground for a display.”
Zeil was confused, “Display? You mean like a show of some kind?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Well, a show of power at least. Wait here and you will see for yourself. I need to ensure the queen addresses her subject first. Otherwise, her guilt will overshadow her pain.”
Zeil could only watch in confusion as, Edelweiss turned away before he could reply to the strange comment, jumped, and glided down to the city gate while Zeil did what he was told and stayed where he was. On the field outside the City, Queen Anna started to approach the city gate as she too noticed the minotaurs’ strange actions. However, this didn’t cause her to hesitate any as she approached the city gates and waited for the doors to open.

As the massive city doored opened allowing the Queen to enter, Edelweiss was waiting on the inside of the doors as he watched the monarch enter the city. When she saw him she spoke, “Edelweiss, come… I need my scholar’s guidance.”
Although he was curious as to what she wanted to say, Edelweiss stayed on his own predetermined schedule as he replied, “With all due respect your majesty… it would be wise to address your subjects first… They await information and instruction from their queen.”
Slowly, Queen Anna panned her eyed around Edelweiss as she saw a large number of gathered citizens who gave her a concerned look. When she saw them, Edelweiss added, “Ease their minds before easing your own.”
Queen Anna nodded, “Yes… of course.” She spoke loudly to address her subjects, “Citizens of Lilith, hear me now for your queen speaks! For those of you who couldn’t witness the meeting I had with General Fist, I shall inform you of my actions. Before the general and his entire army, I removed my crown, placed it upon his hooves, and bowed in an effort to beg for surrender.”

After this was heard, the subjects gave their queen a shocked look as some whispered amongst themselves, “What?” “But… a queen should never bow.” “Why would she sully herself to such cowardice?” Does she sham her own crown?”
“SILENCE!!! Your queen did what she must for Lilith! Do not judge her actions harshly! Listen to her words. YOUR QUEEN SPEAKS!!!”
Surprised by Edelweiss’s outburst, Queen Anna replied, “Yes… though I disgraced my crown so easily, notice I did so in order to spare your lives. As requested for my surrender, I asked that General Fist should spare my subjects and allow you all safe passage out of the kingdom.”
Doctor Grey stepped forward, “And his answer? What did General Fist say to this request?”
Queen Anna shook her head in sadness as she replied, “Unfortunately… He refused to give me an answer, and told me that he would make a decision by the Morning of Friday… Till then… he had blocked all passages in and out of the city and warned me that if any try to leave… they will be severely punished. So, I’m making a royal decree right here and now! No pony, resident, or guest may leave the city at any time for any reason. To break this law, means to accept the minotaur’s punishment openly, with no objections from the crown. SO SAYITH THE QUEEN!!!”
Hearing the decree, the subjects bowed their heads slightly as they all replied, “Long live the Queen.”

Surprised that everypony had no objection to the decree, Zeil held his silence as Queen Anna looked to Edelweiss, “Now that that is over, we can co-“
“QUEEN ANNA OF LILITH!!!”
Surprised by the call, Queen Anna and most of the city’s subjects looked to the tall city gate as she opened her wings and flew to the top of the wall to see who was calling from outside the city. As she landed, she momentarily shifted her eyes to Zeil who was waiting, then back to the outside of the city as she saw General Fist and a number of his soldiers standing just outside the city near the holes that the minotaurs soldiers were digging mere moments ago. As she looked at the general, the minotaurs soldier smiled, “You’re fleeting in your duties daughter to the pegasi! I gave you instructions to keep your subjects at bay, and here I already stumble upon a group that defy your words. Behold!”
General Fist waved his hand to address his approaching soldiers behind him as a group of soldiers walked towards him carrying six long posts each with ponies tied to them with chains.

As soon as Queen Anna saw the posts her expression became one of both worry, and anger. Seeing this, General Fist smiled as his soldiers placed the ends of the post into the dug holes allowing each post to stand on end, and display their tied prisoners openly for all who were standing on the city’s walls. Once all posts were planted the soldiers started placing bundles of hay around each stake as General Fist continued, “Citizens of LILITH!!! Hear me for I speak! Your kingdom has fallen and your hope fleeting! But I… your conqueror am not without mercy. I will allow you to live till the morn of Friday. Then, I will launch an attack that will remove you and your kingdom from the face of this world. So… I ask that you accept this mercy, and stay within your walls, otherwise…”
At that moment one of his soldiers approached General Fist as the general was given a burning torch and started waking by each post as he spoke, “Each act of disobedience, will result in the same punishment…” He stopped at the post furthest from the city and held the torch high over the surrounding hay, “Death by pyre.”

With that said, the general dropped the torch on the hay surrounding the last post as the pony chained to that post started begging and pleading for his life. However, as the begging slowly turned to screams of pain, more torch bearing minotaurs approached each post as they preceded to set each pony on fire as ordered by their general. As the six chained ponies screamed in pain, Zeil couldn’t bear the sight anymore as he turned away from the scene and looked into the city away from the execution. As he did, he could see the horrid faces of the citizens as they listened to the burning ponies’ screams of pain. Seeing that the subjects of Lilith knew what was happening outside the walls, Zeil looked towards Edelweiss as the scholar quickly trotted away from the area as the disguised alicorn disappeared into the city. Confused at the sight, Zeil looked at the queen to see if she noticed Edelweiss’s withdraw. However, not only did she not see the scholar exit the area, but she was forcibly watching the execution while doing her best to hid the sheer horror from her own expression.

Surprised that she was forcing herself to watch the horrifying execution, Zeil looked back to the scene just as the last screams were subsided by the deaths of the prisoners. As the screams were replaced by the crackling of the burning stakes and their now deceased victims, General Fist looked to Queen Anna and drew his sword as he pointed it at her, “Remember your majesty… Friday is the day I attack… unless well… you know what I want.”
Slowly the Minotaur’s sword paned away from the royal alicorn before stopping and leaving the weapon pointed at the Zebra who stood barely twenty feet from her. Turning her head slightly, Queen Anna looked towards Zeil out the corner of her eyes before looking back towards the burned bodies that were now immobile on the scorched stakes.

Seeing her quick glance made Zeil curious, but not as much as he was of Edelweiss’s withdraw as he turned away from the scene and made his way back down from the wall as quickly as he could. As he approached ground level, Zeil started trotting into the city until he was stopped by a voice, “And where do you think you’re going stripes?”
Zeil stopped as he looked to Captain Rose as he replied with little concern, “I’m going to find Edelweiss.”
Captain Rose gave him a distrusting look, “Really? And why is that?”
Zeil replied with a little distrust of his own, “Not to build on your suspicion of me being a spy, but what I need to talk to him about doesn’t concern you.”
Captain Rose was angered by his tone, but he was more passive then any as he replied, “Oh don’t worry, my suspicion of you being a spy is long gone now… However, whether you are a danger to this kingdom or not… remains to be seen. Continue watching your step Stripes… I’ll be watching you.”
With no intent on explaining himself, Captain Rose trotted away from Zeil as the confused changeling decided to disregard the captain’s words and continued into the city.

Although he was confused by the captain’s words, he still felt that he needed to talk with Edelweiss as he started trotting down the road. Since he didn’t see where Edelweiss was going, he decided to try checking the palace library, however as he trotted by an alley, he was stopped when he heard Edelweiss’s voice, “So you saw it… didn’t you?”
As Zeil paused, he could see Edelweiss leaning against the alley wall as he glared at the ground in an intense rage. Though his expression was angry, tears rolled down from his face as Edelweiss continued, “The endless torture… the repeated deaths… that feeling of hopelessness and pain in her eyes… As a king… its torture… but as a husband… its worse than death.”
Zeil couldn’t feel his anger, but it was obvious by Edelweiss’s expression that it was a murderous rage. Knowing this Zeil replied, “She… just watched… without looking away, without batting an eye. Why?”
Edelweiss with his anger still apparent replied, “I don’t know how kings and queens rule in your time, but in mine, we rule with one law. If we don’t have the will to whiteness our own failures, then we have no right to celebrate our victories. This is what it means to be a king, but… I’ve witnessed it a thousand times over, and I realize, there are no more victories for me, only defeat. So I’ve stopped watching, I’ve stopped witnessing the failer of a king, since… I no longer wear a crown. But… I’ve been fighting for so long, I fear, I will never again witness a victory.”

As Zeil looked at the defeated king, he could only feel sorry for him as he sighed before speaking, “Then… I have only one question for you.”
Edelweiss looked towards Zeil as the Changeling smiled, “What day is it?”
Edelweiss smiled, “Its Tuesday.”
Zeil nodded, “Then we only have a few days to find this relic. So what’s first?”
Knowing that this meant that Zeil was willing to help, Edelweiss nodded, “We need to find out where Dr. Grey is hiding the real relic, but first… You need to know and understand why Lilith Exists, and for you to know that, you need to know of the titan who helped established the Kingdom on his territory.”
Zeil gave Edelweiss a confused look, “The titan who established it? Isn’t that the King and Queen of Eden?”
Edelweiss nodded, “True that it was their cooperation that led to the idea, but in actuality it wasn’t their decision to create this kingdom. It was actually your titan that led to its creation.”
Zeil was confused, “My titan? You mean the one who created my race?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… the titan who created the zebra, the minotaur and even the changelings all in one… I’m talking about the titan, Lucifer.”

Bk7/Ch4 The Experimental City

Book 7/Chapter 4
The Experimental City
(Year 4, month 5, day 22)

Edelweiss placed the old book on a table in the middle of the reading area as Zeil looked at the cover of the book and spoke, “I’ve seen this book before, and it’s the history of the titans isn’t it?”
As Zeil opened the book to look through the pages Edelweiss nodded, “Yes, only this happens to be a first edition. I never knew the author but I do know that he supported Lilith’s purpose. This book along with many others were donated so that this city would have a fully functional library… it’s a shame… it went to waste.”
Zeil nodded, “The one I saw was in a nation known as the highlands, but no doubt it is the same book bu…” he flipped through the pages in confusion, “What is this language? I… I can’t understand any of these symbols.”
Edelweiss smiled, “That’s right, this language isn’t relevant in the world anymore. Sometime after Lilith fell, this language seemed to have died. If you need me to, I can translate. Anyways flip three more pages.”

Doing as he was told, Zeil flipped three pages till he found himself looking at a page with five picture on it, the first were two regale alicorns, a king with an orange coat and a brown mane and beard, and a queen with a cream colored coat and a long crimson mane. A few lines down was another picture this time of a light grey wolf with what looked to be puppies around him. However when Zeil looked closer, he realized that those weren’t puppies around him, but full grown wolves that barely reached knee high to the mighty beast. A few more lines down was another picture, this time of a strange looking sea serpent, though this didn’t seem like a normal run of the mill sea serpent. This one had a long beak on the end of its face and two sets of massive wings that protruded from his back which gave the creature flight. Looking closer, Zeil could barely make out a ship floating on the water beside it, only the small brigantine looked like a toy boat when compared to the massive creature that towered many stories above its tallest mast.

The next picture in the book was of a beautiful red dragoness who when compared to the other dragons around her didn’t seem as grand. Though the fire that seemed to radiate from the edge of her eyes and a blue flame cloak covering her body made her seem much more formidable then any of the dragons surrounding her. And finally on the last picture on the page, Zeil could see a tall minotaur like creature, only rather than straight pointed horns, his horns were curled in like a ram and his hands had long claws that made him seem much more sinister then the rest. That paired with the comparison with a second minotaur that stood at nearly half his height made it obvious that this creature had to be a ruler of some sort. Not to mention, this creature seemed too familiar to Zeil for him to miss as he spoke with only one word, “Lucifer…”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… that creature on the bottom is none other than the titan of darkness himself.”
Zeil nodded, “So… he established Lilith?”

Edelweiss nodded as he trotted to the other side of the table and sat down, “Yes… Well… he played the largest part of its establishment, though… I think it’s unions such as mine with my wife which helped inspired the purpose of Lilith.”
“Your union?”
Edelweiss smiled, “Yes… you see, my wife and I were always looked down upon. Seems being out casted was common for those who married outside their race.”
Zeil was confused, “Marry outside your race? But your both alicorn… aren’t you?”
The Scholar shook his head, “No, I may have been born an alicorn noble from Eden, but my wife, is from the pegasi tribes, as was her race at the time.”
Zeil was surprised, “What? But… how? She’s an alicorn now… or… is her horn just for show?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “She can use magic if that’s what you’re asking, though her skills with it are… minimal at best. If I didn’t say it so, anypony who would meet her would assume she was truly an alicorn born and raised.”
“So… how did she become one then?”

Edelweiss smiled in a sinister way, “Would you believe… a relic?”
Zeil was even more surprised, “What? You mean the same thing that is trapping you all here?”
Edelweiss shook his head as he laughed, “Yes but… not the exact same one, the titan leviathan has in his possession a relic that has the ability to change the species of any creature enveloped in its magic, but it’s not forever, so I used a spell of my own to work with it to… alter its effects.”
Zeil replied, “So… you used a spell in combination with a relic?”
Edelweiss nodded, “I did, yes.”
“So… how is it that I’ve never heard of such a thing?”
Edelweiss replied, “Because I left my notes in the care of one of my students in the unicorn kingdom. He says he could study them enough to use it without the need of a titan relic, but I heard he was unable to complete such a spell and passed it down to his pupils. For all I know, it was lost to time.”
Zeil looked back at the book as he replied, “Okay that said, why would the titan of darkness care to establish a unified city of pony races?”

Edelweiss smiled as he replied, “I guess, you will need to know of my story first. As I said, I was born an alicorn noble in Eden. So noble in fact, that when my conception was announced, so too was my betrothed and wedding. Before I was even born, my life was set to marry a noble daughter of another prestigious family regardless of my or her opinion on the matter. Oddly as I grew, that remained the lowest of my interests. I grew up ignoring all around me accept for my knowledge of magic, and how to create new spells. One night just a year before my wedding, I was up late studying new spells and trying to think of ways to alter them. The night was dark, stormy, and the smell of rain and sounds of thunder were all that seemed to fill the air. Until the thunder was overshadowed by a loud crash of shattering glass. It seemed that a weather pegasus had lost control and crashed through the window of my bedroom completely breaking my concentration, along with the window and a table in the room. Seeing the figure come through the glass and pull the drapes down with her, I rushed to her side to see if she was alright. But when I saw her face, I was stunned. Even without a horn, she was the most beautiful mare I had ever met so I set the unconscious mare into my bed and treated her wounds which luckily were simple scratches and bruises. Hours later when she awoke, I had to ask her about… well… everything. Where she came from, what her name was, her interests. As the night progressed, we talked about everything. Her home, mine, our lineage… we were both completely opened books bearing subjects that interested us both. At first I assumed that love at first sight was only for those who hope to settle down immediately… but she… Anna, was my love. At first sight and true as could be.”

Zeil could only smile at Edelweiss’s expressions, “Love can hit you at any time… Trust me… one minute you think it’s impossible to fall in love… and the next, it’s impossible to ignore the love you feel… even if… it hurts…”
Though Edelweiss was concerned with Zeil’s statement, he could only nod, “I couldn’t agree more. The next day when she left to go home, I asked if she could return to see me. So, she did. For a number of days she would stop by the manor on her breaks from weather control and we would spend time together. But… it was obvious to my father that this wasn’t just a gathering of best friends. One day he refuse to allow me to see her, he said that not only was I a betrothed stallion, but it wasn’t proper for an alicorn to be with a pegasus at all, let alone a relationship. So… he gave me an option. Either I renounce my title and leave Eden a disgrace, or I turn Anna away and forget about her.” Edelweiss chuckled, “I was gone within the hour.”
Zeil smiled, “So you left Eden and your life behind for her?”
Edelweiss nodded, “She was my life, the only part of it that I got to choose for myself. But… her family didn’t agree with our love any more than my own. When I arrived at the Pegasi Tribes I explained the situation but they too turned me away. Alicorn are the highest form of species created by our queen. For one to sully himself by living amongst commoners is blasphemy in her eyes. So Anna was given a choice, either forget about me, or leave the pegasi tribes. So… she too left her home.”

Zeil was slightly concerned as he asked, “You were banished from both your homes? What did you do?”
Edelweiss smiled, “We found a clearing, far on the very edge Pony territory and the border between ours and Lucifer’s boundaries. Out there, we built a small cottage and got married in secret. I wrote spells and taught magic to traveling enchanters. She controlled the weather in our region as instructed by the pegasi tribes. One day though, we were visited by an unusual guest. A changeling queen and her drone were passing through our forest and happened upon our home. They knocked on our door and asked for food and water for their journey. Since they seemed sincere in their request, we did the proper thing and greeted them with hospitality, and a few extra vegetable that were near their expiration. Grateful, they thanked us for our kindness and told us that they were on their way to Eden with a request from Lucifer.”
Zeil was confused, “A request? Why would a changeling queen concern herself with delivering a message?”
Edelweiss was surprised, “Oh, that’s right Lucifer’s name and his methods were lost to time weren’t they? Well back then, Changelings were Lucifer’s… diplomates of sorts. They were tasked with delivering messages between the titans and keeping peace in the titan borderlines. They enjoyed their tasks and learning about other cultures from what I hear.”
Zeil gave him a dumb look as he smiled hopelessly, “Somehow I doubt that… until recently changeling were nothing but selfish parasites. And it was their queen, my queen that kept us that way.”

Edelweiss gave Zeil a confused look, “Us?... You’re saying you’re a changeling?”
Zeil nodded, “I am.”
Edelweiss smiled with intrigue, “I hear your kind developed a new appearance since my time, could I bother you to show me?”
Zeil nodded again as he changed into his reformed state as Edelweiss gave him a funny look, “You… look no different. Exactly what has changed? Is it your lack of wings? I heard your kind had turned black and had holes in your hooves.”
Zeil was confused as he looked at his hoof, “What do you mean? This is different then what we were before.”
Edelweiss shook his head, “Well aside from your missing wings and color, you look no different than that last changelings I saw.”
Zeil have him a confused look, “Wait… you mean we were reformed… before?”

Feeling they were getting off track Edelweiss shook his head and waved his hoof dismissively, “Never mind, it’s not important. Where was I? Ah yes, the changeling queen delivering her message to Eden. When she saw my wife and I she was confused, she said something about knowing that we both were of two races, and were deeply in love and questioned it. I guess it’s a changeling thing… anyways when we explained our situation, she could only nod understandingly. She said that true love can transcend races even if we ourselves don’t understand it. Either way she graciously thanked us for our kindness and continued on their journey to Eden. Strangely though a few days later, we were met at our door by a squad of alicorn soldiers… straight from Eden.”

Zeil changed back into his zebra form as he asked, “What? Is it a crime to marry outside your race?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “Not a crime per-say, just looked down upon in my time. But since the soldier carried an official order from the king of Eden himself, we had no choice but to go with them. Especially since it is a crime to disobey our king and queen. So, Anna and I, under escort of royal soldiers were brought before the king and queen of Eden. And when we arrived, there were two other faces waiting for us. One was the changeling queen that we assisted, and the other, was Lucifer the titan of darkness himself. He, came to Eden with an offer to our queen, he wanted to see if it were possible to establish a kingdom in his territory composed of multiple races in hopes of spreading equality amongst the mortals. He said that this continued separation would only bring more pain and death then it would to simply keep them separate. He explained that by separating them, it would only prolong their ignorance and bring them closer to their own attempts to destroy what they don’t understand.”

Zeil nodded in agreement as he replied, “It makes since, the same thing happened to my hive. We didn’t accept the values of other races and it brought my kind to attack other kingdoms. And, it inevitably led us to destroy one, before being destroyed ourselves while facing another.”
Though he questioning it, Edelweiss continued, “Lucifer knew that fear of his own rule would allow the mortals to work together. And since none feared him more than the pony races, he felt it should start with them. A kingdom of mixed ponies, ruled by the alicorn in a territory of a terrifying titan. But when the changeling queen told him of the two ponies living on the outskirts of pony territory, an alicorn and a pegasus living with only the love between them. Well… he felt he had found the perfect king and queen to rule this new kingdom. Although, there was one stipulation. The first laws of the kingdoms were as follows. The kingdom can and will accept residents of any and all mortal races, and that the only race to rule this founding kingdom, was the alicorn race. Meaning that its king and queen needed to be alicorn.”
Zeil nodded, “So, you had to find out how to turn your bride into alicorn.”

Edelweiss nodded, “Yes… permanently. All the titans knew of a pearl in the Leviathan seas where the hippogriff kingdom watched over a relic with such a power, but… that power was only temporary. Once used, you could only hold onto your appearance for a matter of months, but what we needed was a permanent solution so I went to work developing a spell to make the changes permanent. And after a number of tries, I made such a spell. I made something that nullified magic at a halfway point in its actions making so that a spell that had a duration of time could be halted in place. But it did come with a condition… once a spell was halted, it couldn’t be finished or reversed. So… it was in every explanation… a permanent spell. So with my wife changed into an alicorn, we established Eden in Lucifer’s territory and set out to gather volunteers from all pony races to assist in the establishment. It took a while since many were afraid to establish a kingdom in Lucifer’s territory. Evan after the queen assured them it would be safe, we were only able to get outcasts, and banished to join in our cause. In all we had about ten thousand subjects.”
Zeil asked, “Was that enough?”
Edelweiss smiled, “For a simple kingdom, it was enough. Many chose to stay in the city and within the first year build it to what it is now, while the rest established farmland. Though it took a lot of convincing to let them know that they were safe so long as they stayed within Lilith’s territorial borders. They all were worried Lucifer would attack them if they were too fare from the city.”
Zeil replied in confusion, “That’s what I don’t get, you said Lucifer wanted to use fear to establish the kingdom, but, I don’t even know what kind of titan he was. You seem to say he was good, but most of what I hear is that he was evil.”

Edelweiss nodded, “He was the titan of darkness, but only because he knew his roll. It was he who discovered the rule of balance, day and night, light and dark, he knew that without the darkness he brought to the world, everything would be in chaos. So despite how he felt about it, he played his roll well and made himself out to be the most evil and vile creature in the world… for the greater good as he said so himself. His subjects knew better though, they knew him to be the merciful and fair ruler that he truly was. That’s why he created creatures such as demons and apes. It was their bad actions that kept the balance that he sought to keep. So in order to contain that darkness within his borders he created other races with roles of their own. The changeling to judge and grade the creatures so that their darkness doesn’t overrule the light. The zebra to manage and watch over darkness that couldn’t be seen such as spirits and magic. And the minotaur to police the creatures should one try to use darkness in violence against others. But… somewhere down the line, his order unraveled. The minotaurs renounced their deity and resented him out of spite. The changelings became feared amongst even their fellow races, and the zebra well, they started to assume the rest of the world was right, and started distrusting their titan. It’s unknown how this happened, but Lucifer assumed it was because he too tried to make his creations live apart. And as he said, ignorance breeds fear and distrust.”

Though Zeil didn’t know for sure, something in his head said there was more to it as he spoke, “That’s not all… is there? There… is something else… something more… personal to Lucifer.”
Edelweiss was surprised as he nodded, “Yes… there was… it was when Lucifer broke a rule that he and his fellow titans laid.”
Zeil still didn’t understand it, but something popped into his mind out of nowhere as he spoke with only one word, “L-love?”
Edelweiss was surprised, “W-well he did fall in love with a mortal but… how did you know that?”
Zeil tried to think, “I… I don’t know… for some reason, it just… appeared in my mind.”
Edelweiss nodded, “Strange… well no matter the reason we can’t speak further into it.”
Zeil was confused, “What? Why?”
The alicorn scholar closed the book as he replied, “Because there is more to it than that… his true crime is one we aren’t supposed to speak of.”
Zeil was curious so he started to reply, “Really? What did he d-”

At that moment, a loud knock echoed through the library as the doors to the room opened as Captain Rose and a few guards entered with the captain yelling in a fit of anger, “EDELWEISS!!! You have some nerve!”
As Captain Rose stomped into the room, Edelweiss sighed in irritation as he replied, “Captain please… this is a library, have some decency for the readers here. Or has that too escaped your manners.”
Captain Rose looked over the empty library before giving him an angry look, “Don’t give me that crap! Where were you? The queen said after her meeting that she wanted to speak with you directly, but you made her speak with the citizens first then left the area before she could approach you… Does her word mean nothing to you? Or are you truly determined on undermining her rule?”
Edelweiss sighed, “Unlike you, the screams of battle and torture are not something I intend to stand by and listen to. Therefor I felt it in my best interest, to see to other matters then to objectify myself to something that could interfere with my duties. Or do you think that a simple scholar like myself can keep a level head when his mind is exposed to scenes of the traumatic.”
Captain Rose sneered at the scholar as he replied, “Oh, that’s right… you’re a wuss… well despite your cowardess , the Queen still wishes to speak with you directly, so you better get your plot to the throne room before I drag you there by your frilly little turban.”

With a careless and disrespectful tone, Edelweiss trotted passed Captain Rose as he replied, “Would it kill you to say please?”
As Edelweiss trotted by, Captain Rose replied, “I’m not willing to take that risk.” He looked over at Zeil who was sitting at the reading table as he continued, “And what are you doing here Stripes?”
Before Zeil could reply, Edelweiss spoke, “I temporarily hired Mr. Zeil to be my scribe.”
Captain Rose gave him a distrusting look, “Scribe? Him?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Of course, as the royal record keeper, I have many duties to attend to throughout the day, so with a scribe taking down all that I say, my work is basically cut in half. Now in this time of crisis I can both keep a clear head and record all that happens should it be required for future generations to study.”
Captain Rose looked back at Zeil, but his expression showed less anger as he replied, “Future generations… that’s thinking rather optimistically, but at least somepony can still do that.”

He turned away as he replied, “Forgive me Stripes but due to the crisis, I will be placing guard at the door. If you are working with the royal scholar I won’t kick you out, but I will not allow you to roam freely through the castle grounds unescorted, so wait here till Edelweiss returns.”
Zeil nodded, “I understand, I’ll stay and do more research.”
Knowing it was a ploy, Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Good, I’ll expect a report when I return. Well Rose, shall we see the queen?”
Captain Rose gave Zeil an untrusting look he replied to the scholar’s question, “Sure… her majesty awaits your presence in the throne room.”
With nothing more to say, Captain Rose, Edelweiss and the royal guards left the library as the guards posed themselves outside the room and stood guard.

As Captain Rose and Edelweiss trotted towards the throne room the sceptic captain spoke, “You and Stripes… you two seem to be chummy aren’t you?”
Edelweiss smiled, “What can I say, just because he is a creation of Lucifer, doesn’t place him as any higher or lower on status. Like all of us, he is just trying to live his life as best he can.”
Captain Rose replied, “And how is he doing that exactly? Has he talked about what he did before coming to Lilith?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “No, but I assume whatever it is, it’s better than being stuck here against his will. Besides, I need a scribe to help me with my work and he seems moderately educated enough to help. Even if he has only been at it for less than a day.”
Still untrusting Captain Rose replied, “Really? If you need help that badly you could just ask one of my soldiers for help. You don’t need the assistance of a foreigner from outside the kingdom?”

Edelweiss smiled, “One of your soldiers huh?” he looked at one of the guards, “You? Tell me, what does it mean if I say somepony is being a valetudinarian?”
The guard hesitated before replying, “Um… isn’t that a doctor that works on animals?”
Edelweiss looked back at Captain Rose as he replied, “Is my point made?”
Captain Rose sighed, “You can’t judge my army’s intelligence by the fault of a single sol-“
“Alright then… say the word antiestablishmentarianism.”
Captain Rose hesitated before trying to pronounce the word, “Antiesta… um and antieste…” he clear his throat, “Fine… point taken. But don’t think this means I agree with this decision of yours.”
Edelweiss smiled, “Good, it’s not like your opinion matters on the situation anyways.”
Captain Rose replied with a serious tone, “Weather it does or not… just watch him Edelweiss, something about him doesn’t sit right with me.”

Edelweiss chuckled as he replied, “Come now captain, you say that about every new pony you meet.”
Captain Rose stopped in his tracks as his sudden stop caused Edelweiss to pause as the serious captain replied, “And every time, I’m usually wrong… but for some reason… I think I’m right this time.” He started trotting again, “Now come on… her majesty is waiting.”
Edelweiss was surprised by Captain Rose’s serious expression. The disguised alicorn has gotten used to his, tough and commanding seriousness that is expected from a leader, but this was different than that. This seriousness was more caution and hidden worry then the usual suck-it-up attitude that he has always held. Either way, Edelweiss decided to wait till he spoke with the Queen before asking about it.

When they arrived in the throne room, the two ponies approached the throne as they both bowed as Edelweiss spoke, “Your grace, I have come as summoned. First I must apologies from my sudden leave of absence earlier today. But one such as I have no place on the battlefield, and hearing screams of those poor souls outside the city was something that I couldn’t bear to stay present for.”
Queen Anna was sitting in deep thought before the two approached so she stood and spoke, “I understand Edelweiss, I would prove myself a poor queen, should I have forced you to stay. Or… have I surrendered to that status already…”
Although that last comment was more for herself then her two advisors, Edelweiss still rose from his bow as he spoke, “I wouldn’t judge yourself so harshly your majesty. Today you’ve proven yourself more worthy of royalty then any to reign before in any kingdom. To be so loyal to your subjects as to offer your own freedom in exchange for their lives, proves you to be on par with the Queen of Eden herself… if I should so blasphamicly say so that is.”

Captain Rose stood up from his bow and gave Edelweiss an annoyed look as this reaction caused Queen Anna to smile as she replied, “You flatter me with your words Edelweiss, but the sentiment is appreciated.”
Captain Rose could only roll his eyes, “I don’t even think that was a word… Blaphemicly?”
Queen Anna didn’t hear Captain Rose as she continued, “I assume you wonder why I needed to speak with you following today’s meeting?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes, I assume you were told something rather troubling… besides it was obvious that we have till Friday before Lilith is destroyed.”
Queen Anna was stunned by his words as Edelweiss continued, “I could hear it in your voice. When you said that General Fist was going to consider your request and that he would give an answer on Friday… I could tell that it was actually denied and he was giving us till Friday before he would attack.”
Captain Rose replied, “And the fact that he said so himself when he executed those citizens had nothing to do with you knowing… did it?”

Edelweiss replied with a careless tone, “Let’s not dwell on what we know, better we focus on what you needed to speak with me about. I doubt you would come to me for advice on readying a counter attack, would you?”
Queen Anna nodded, “Yes well, first answer me this. From what I’ve seen, you have spent an ample amount of time escorting Mr Zeil through the city have you not?”
Edelweiss nodded, “I have.”
Queen Anna continued, “Tell me… what is your impression of him?”
Edelweiss smiled but before he could reply, Captain Rose spoke first, “Edelweiss took it upon himself to hire Mr. Zeil as a royal scribe.”
Queen Anna was surprised, “A scribe?”
Edelweiss replied with a sigh, “Actually I hired him as an assistant scribe, a royal scribe can, and will be hired only by her majesty. There is a difference captain… whether you know it or not.” He looked back to the queen, “I felt us responsible for Mr. Zeil’s inability to leave the kingdom. So after speaking with him and finding out that he is will educated, I felt he would be a good assistant to help me keep records during these difficult times, especially since he already refused to fight for our kingdom.”

Captain Rose was surprised, “He what?” he looked at the queen, “Your majesty? Did you know about this?”
Queen Anna nodded, “I did, it was part of our discussion yesterday evening. I offered him a mercinaries contract to help defend our city and he refused.”
Captain Rose continued, “And why was I not informed?”
Edelweiss replied, “Because it didn’t involve you in any way… unless he were to accept which he did not.”
Captain Rose replied, “If he refuses then why not draft him by force.”
Edelweiss replied, “Because it is a crime to forcibly draft a subject of another kingdom. You of all ponies should know this. Now before we dwell onto other obvious questions you may have… perhaps we should get back to the subject at hand.”
Queen Anna nodded as she replied, “Agreed, so you say Mr. Zeil is educated. Do you know anything more about him?”

Edelweiss was confused as he replied, “Anything more? Like… what your majesty?”
The queen continued, “Perhaps, he spoke of his destination. Or his reasoning for making his journey? Maybe he happened to mention where he was born, since he has said before that he has no kingdom to call his own.”
Edelweiss thought to himself, he originally wanted to tell his queen that Zeil was a changeling but he felt it would be better to keep that secret since it could make him seem more suspicious of being an enemy spy. So with carful choices in his words, Edelweiss replied, “He mentioned that he was from a faraway kingdom called… um Zebrica or something of the sort. I looked up the location myself but it appears that the nation is fairly new, so new in fact that it was established after every book in my library had been published. However he mentioned where it was and found it to be a ways beyond the coast. Passed Atlantis and near Raiden’s territory.”

Captain Rose chuckled as he replied, “Yea… he was spouting something about an imaginary kingdom that was a few hours away from here yesterday… if that leaves me to believe anything, it’s that he is a raving lunatic with no clue about the world around him. Not the educated type that you would assume him to be Edelweiss.”
Edelweiss gave Rose an annoyed look as Queen Anna thought to herself, “I recall him mentioning something about a vow he had made to a mare he loves. Perhaps she is in this Zebrica awaiting his return. But did he mention what reason he found himself so far from home?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “No he didn’t. However I did find that he is a noble stallion with a moral code. He sees the injustice around him and strives to help in any way he can… aside from breaking his vow of course. That is the reason that when he approached me looking for a job to assist our war without fighting, I decided to make him a scribe.”
Queen Anna nodded, “I see… in that case, let me ask this… Do you trust him?”
Edelweiss nodded as he agreed, “I do… yes.”
Queen Anna spoke again, this time with a more serious tone, “With your very life?”

Edelweiss was confused with her dark tone, “Um… yes, if it should come to that, I trust he would risk himself to save those in need… myself included.”
Queen Anna took a moment to look upon her scholar for a brief moment before smiling as she replied, “Then… that’s all I needed to hear.”
As she said that, Queen Anna sat in her throne as Captain Rose spoke in shock, “Wh-what? That’s it? Your majesty, there should be more to it than th-”
“Edelweiss, my most trusted scholar says he is safe… so… I too trust Mr. Zeil. Not with my life, but with reasonable acceptance.”
Edelweiss and Captain Rose were both surprised by the Queen’s words as Edelweiss replied with a little confusion, “Um… did I miss something your majesty?”
Queen Anna nodded as she replied, “You did… however you have reassured me that I have nothing to fear from Mr. Zeil. That said… I have an order for you.”
Edelweiss bowed slightly as he replied, “Yes you majesty, what do you ask of me.”

Queen Anna replied, “Captain Fist apparently has interest in Mr Zeil for reasons that I am… unsure. From this moment on, you will observe Mr. Zeil and learn more about him. If you find that he has any particular skills, knowledge, or abilities that may peak the interest of the minotaur kingdom. I want you to report them to me at once. But… if whatever skill he possess turns out to be a viable threat to the kingdom or worse… the rest of the world… I want him detained at once. Even if, in order to detain him… you must use deadly force.”
Edelweiss was speechless, he had no idea that General Fist even knew about Zeil in the first place nor did he see even the slightest reason for the Minotaur Kingdom to want a simple traveler. As Edelweiss tried to peace together his response Captain Rose spoke, “Deadly force? But your majesty, if Mr. Zeil is killed, then we will have no bargaining chip for the kingdom and its safety!”
Queen Anna replied, “Lilith, is in a sorry state, and I will accept that it is partially, if not fully the fault of myself and my king. But if Lilith should fall, I will not hand over a weapon to be used against others. For whatever reason, the minotaur want Mr. Zeil alive. If he is a danger to the rest of us, then I’d rather he be killed now then to be used to harm others.”

Edelweiss asked, “Wait a second your majesty! Are you telling me that General Fist decided to make an offer for the kingdom, and the bargaining chip we hold is Mr. Zeil?”
Queen Anna replied, “Please do not speak of him as if he were some mere possession. True the general asked for Mr. Zeil in exchange for the kingdom but I’m not willing to hand him over without explanation. Even if it is for my subjects. It’s not right to sacrifice one for many. Especially if he isn’t even one of my own subjects. To do so would only prove Lilith’s purpose to be false. That no race can be treated equally.”
Although Edelweiss was surprised that such an offer was made, he still knew the general enough to be sceptic as he asked, “What were his words exactly? Did he say, and I quote, if you hand over the zebra I will spare your kingdom?”
Captain Rose replied, “What are you deaf now? The queen just said that, that was the of-”
Edelweiss replied, “Don’t see me as rude Rose… but I was asking her majesty… not you.” He looked back to his queen, “Your grace?”

Captain Rose gave Edelweiss an angry look as Queen Anna replied, “Now that I think about it… at no point did he use those exact words.”
Captain Rose replied, “What? But he said…”
“He said that he would consider sparing my subjects in exchange for Mr Zeil. And he said later that if I delivered him, that my subjects would be taken care of. In other words…”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied to the Queen’s explanation, “In other words, as soon as we hand over Mr. Zeil… chances of him betraying us is high.”
Queen Anna nodded, “Yes… he would no doubt launch his attack anyways. Despite our cooperation. Best we discover why he wants Mr. Zeil before even considering the offer.”
Edelweiss nodded as he bowed in response, “Then I know what to do your majesty, I will observe Mr Zeil closely while he is under my employment. As such I will casually asked more about him in hopes of discovering more of his past. If he is hiding something then he will no doubt have hesitations or signs of dishonesty in his responses.”

Queen Anna nodded as she smiled, “Very well, then I will leave you to your instructions. But… be cautious. I doubt Mr Zeil is against us in any way, but take care to defend yourself should he become hostile. So saith the Queen.”
Edelweiss and Captain Rose bowed in respect as they both replied, “Long live the queen.”
With that said, Edelweiss rose form his bow and left the throne room on his way back to the library. Though Edelweiss now felt suspicious of Zeil’s travels, he still held trust in the unknown changeling. He couldn’t understand why it was, but he did know that whoever the strange guest was, wasn’t a danger to him or his kingdom.

Back in the library, Zeil was standing at one of the book cases flipping through pages of one of the books as he shook his head and closed it, “No… nothing.”
Zeil replaced the book on the shelf then looked down the titles again as he found another book as he pulled it from the shelf and opened it. However this too held a language he didn’t understand as he sighed, “It’s no use, even if I did find a book on Zebrica, I can’t ask Matthias to translate. The mage said I need to keep the subject secret. I don’t know if I can’t trust Matthias with information on the image of Zebrica… nor can I expect him to accept that that’s what I’m supposed to become. And every book in this library is written in the ancient language.”
As he replaced the book, Edelweiss entered the library as he saw Zeil standing at the shelf, “Oh, decided to do some research while you wait?”

Having an alibi ready, Zeil replied, “Yea, I was wanting to find a book about Zebrica, but I can’t read any of these books. They are all in that language you told me about.”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Yes, well… even if you could read it… I doubt you will find anything about any kingdom of your era in this library, I don’t know much about the world today, but I do know that every kingdom that exist in my time is no more.”
Zeil thought to himself, “it’s too bad, I wanted to see if there was anything about the zebra race here.”
Edelweiss was curious, “Zebra? I thought you were a changeling?”
Zeil nodded, “I am… but… the mare I’m trying to return to… she is a zebra. And… I try to learn about her culture on occasion so I can feel closer to her.”
Edelweiss was surprised, “A zebra? So… you are in love with one of a different race as well?”
Zeil nodded as Edelweiss smiled and pulled up a chair as he spoke, “Alright… time to fess up… I want to hear about your journey. Tell me of the world in your time. I’m anxious to know how the world views your forbidden love.”
Zeil didn’t like the idea of his feelings for Zecora being referred to as forbidden, but since Edelweiss was so enthusiastic about hearing his story, Zeil felt it was safe to tell it, so long as he left out the part about the Mage and his spell book.

Bk7/Ch5 To Kill a King

Book 7/Chapter 5
To Kill a King
(Year 4, Month 5, Day 23)

Though he didn’t like it, Zeil lifted the tarp that was covering the corpse as he looked at the poor soul under it and spoke, “Neck wound… probably an instant death… I hope.”
As Zeil laid the tarp back over the body, Edelweiss who was standing next to him carrying a clipboard replied, “You don’t have to look if you don’t want to you know… we are only here to observe Grey’s activities. Identifying the soldier’s death is only an excuse I made up to be here.”
As they stood amongst the three rows of covered bodies, Zeil looked down the line towards the small field hospital as he saw Dr. Grey examining a patient who was still alive. After seeing the doctor doing his job, Zeil felt skeptic, “Are you sure he is the one causing this? He seems harmless enough, not to mention clueless about anything we may be doing.”
Edelweiss turned his head enough to see the Doctor out the corner of his eye as he replied, “Don’t be fooled, he is simply playing his roll… just as we are right now. He will stop it nothing to ensure the relic is activated on time, every time. So it is likely he will do anything to protect its hidden location.”

Acting casual, the two stepped to the next body as Zeil lifted the sheet, but didn’t look at the body as he spoke, “And do you have any idea where he’s hiding it?”
Edelweiss shook his head as he looked down at the clipboard and pretended to read something on it, “No… it’s about the size of a small melon so it could be anywhere.” He looked up the city’s perimeter wall that sat less than ten feet away, “All I know for curtain, is that it is somewhere within this city.”
As they continued to act like they were doing work, Zeil couldn’t help but look to the row across from the one they were on, as he saw something odd, in the perfect rows of covered bodies there was an empty space where a sheet was laid, but it was obvious that the body beneath it was removed. Not paying much mind to it, Zeil and Edelweiss stepped to the next body in their current row as Edelweiss spoke, “So, you mentioned something about learning magic… can you tell me what you’ve learned thus far?”
Zeil replied, “Well, mainly I’ve mastered potion making, and I’ve learned to identify perfect ingredients in doing so. Currently I’m trying to learn more about elemental magic. I’ve gotten simple elements down, such as ice, but I’m having difficulty with elements that aren’t solid. I know I will learn water magic… eventually, but fire has been difficult to learn.”

Edelweiss smiled as he nodded, “Fire magic is very difficult even I have a hard time controlling it. It is possible that it could be forever out of your reach.”
Zeil gave him an annoyed look, “That’s not very encouraging…”
Edelweiss continued, “Better to tell it like I see it and encourage you to try proving me wrong then to claim it to be easy and disappoint should you fail.”
Zeil thought to himself, “You have a point.”
At that moment the two could hear a faint conversation from the field hospital as Dr. Grey spoke to one of his nurses, “Can you take over here? I need to return to my clinic for supplies.”
As the nurse nodded, Dr. Grey proceeded to turn away from his assistant and leave the hospital as Edelweiss watched and spoke, “There… we need to follow him. It’s possible he is going to check on the relic.”
Zeil nodded as Edelweiss put the clipboard on the closest body, and led Zeil away from the row of corpses and followed the leaving doctor.

As the two followed their target through the busy streets, Zeil was somewhat surprised. Though the citizens were trapped and in danger of the surrounding enemy army, they were able to put it into the back of their minds as they trotted through the city doing their daily errands like nothing was amiss. With the crowded streets providing the perfect setting, Zeil and Edelweiss followed Dr. Grey completely concealed in the herd. As they followed, it wasn’t long before the two had made their way into the city’s main plaza where many roads seemed to connect to a large area full of bustling ponies. With the herd thick with citizens, Zeil and Edelweiss kept their focus solely on Dr. Grey however as they trotted, they started to pass a strange cloaked covered stallion. At first the two didn’t even notice the stranger, but as they passed, Zeil noticed that the stallion was giving them a glance that not only caught the changeling’s attention, it sent a strange yet uneasy feeling through his body that caused him to stop in place. Without stopping to say anything, the stranger continued passed as Zeil turned towards the stallion who was trotting away as fast as he could without running. As the stranger neared an alley, the cloaked stallion turned the corner as Zeil mumbled, “Wh-what? Who is that?”
Confused, Zeil followed the strange stallion’s path into the alley however as he looked down the narrow walkway, he saw that whoever the cloaked figure was, he had completely vanished without a trace.

Uneasy, Zeil took a moment to observe the alleyway from where he stood as Edelweiss approached him and spoke, “Mr Zeil? What’s wrong?”
Zeil hesitated as he replied, “I’m… not sure… did you see that stallion pass us a little bit ago?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “my focus was elsewhere so… no. why?”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “I don’t know… just… a feeling I guess.”
Edelweiss looked towards where Dr. Grey was last seen before looking back and replying, “We can’t lose Dr. Grey so… let’s make haste. We can solve this matter at a later time.”
Taking only a few more second to examine the alley, Zeil nodded as he replied, “Sure… lets go.”
Nodding to the impatient scholar, Zeil decided to let it go as he and Edelweiss quickly rushed to catch up to the doctor.

Though they did lose him for a few seconds, Zeil and Edelweiss were able to catch up to Dr. Grey as they followed him through the city. Sadly, their investigation of Dr. Grey’s movements came up with no added information about the relic, its location, or whether or not the Doctor had anything to do with it in any way. After the search came up with no information, the two continued to observe the doctor for the rest of his day, at least until the surgeon finally returned home to end his day. Afterword’s, Zeil and Edelweiss returned to the royal library where Zeil sat at one of the reading tables and sighed, “All that work… for nothing.”
Edelweiss shook his head, “Patience my changeling friend, Eden wasn’t built in a day you know. Besides, we still have a full day till the attack so he may be biding his time.”
Zeil nodded, “Okay… so now what?”

Edelweiss smiled and he approached a bookshelf and replied, “You say you have only begun to learn elemental magic correct? Perhaps I can teach you a little in the meantime.” He removed a book from the shelf and trotted back to the table, “I can’t guarantee I can help you master it, but if you’ve already learned ice magic, then you’re only a step or two away from water magic.”
Zeil looked at the book that was laid on the table, though he still couldn’t read this ancient language he still could recognize by the pictures that this book taught magic. As Zeil looked at the images he smiled, “Actually that would be a big help.”
Edelweiss nodded however as he did, he looked out a nearby window as he saw the sun setting over the horizon, “But for now, that will have to wait… If you will excuse me, I have to go.”

Confused by Edelweiss’s sudden haste, Zeil watched, as Edelweiss quickly trotted towards the door to the library as he asked, “Go? Where?”
Edelweiss replied, “At this time there is an important meeting I must attend. You can wait here till I return.”
Zeil was concerned, “Meeting? With who?”
Edelweiss didn’t even look at his changeling friend as he opened this library door and replied, “My wife.”
That side, Edelweiss closed the door behind him and started sprinting down the castle corridor as he made his way out of the castle gates and into the city. Once outside, Edelweiss quickly opened his wings and flew to the furthest reach of the city’s boundaries. Once he approached the city’s furthest wall, the disguised alicorn looked down as he could see the queen of Lilith standing on the edge of the wall as she looked into the distance at the lights that were emitting from the minotaur’s base camp.

Trying not to startle her, Edelweiss landed a number of feet away as he slowly approached the royal mare who was trapped in thought. As he approached, Edelweiss stopped next to her as he sat down, looked at the minotaur camp, and spoke, “It’s not often to see a queen out here without her escort.”
Surprised, Queen Anna looked to her scholar as she replied, “Oh… Edelweiss… I… I didn’t hear you approach.”
Staying on subject Edelweiss replied, “If you will allow me the honor, I can act in place of your guards and protect you until they return.”
Queen Anna looked back to the enemy camp as she replied, “No… thank you, but I requested to be alone for the time being. I… have much to ponder.”
Acting unconcerned, Edelweiss replied, “Very well, then I will take my leave.”
As Edelweiss started to leave, Queen Anna replied, “Thank you Edelweiss, I knew you would understa-”
“Although…” Edelweiss paused as he looked back at the queen, “If you have much to ponder, and request the time to do so in solitary. Then… am I to assume that this subject is troubling?”
Before Queen Anna could reply, Edelweiss turned completely to her and continued, “And I for one, as one of your royal advisors would feel quite worried, if there is a subject troubling enough to cause her majesty such strife… so perhaps she needs some… advice on the matter? If not, an opportunity to talk about it, to… ease her frustration wouldn’t you say?”

Speechless, the queen tried to reply, “Tha- I mean, that’s none of- well… it’s not…”
Dropping the noble act, Edelweiss replied as he spoke with sincerity, “Your majesty?... what’s wrong?”
Caught off guard, Queen Anna thought to herself as she replied, “Is… is there any reason to turn over Mr Zeil? Would… would it truly deprive my honor to deliver him to General Fist in any way?”
Edelweiss smiled as he shook his head, “Mr. Zeil told me his whole story. Though none of it explains what interest he is to the Minotaur Kingdom, I will gladly say that he is a friend to Lilith, and its purpose.”
Queen Anna looked back into the distance as she replied, “Then… I can’t sacrifice him for the kingdom… but then… what should I… no… it is improper for a queen to ask such a question.”
Edelweiss gave her an uneasy look, “You say I am an adviser, and yet you refuse to allow me to give advice? How can I assist her majesty if she truly distrust my words?”
Queen Anna spoke in her defense as she looked at her scholar “It’s not that I… I just.”
Edelweiss continued, “Your majesty… please… stop hiding your pain and just say what on your mind. Tell me your troubles, if not for me… then for yourself.”

Queen Anna felt trapped by Edelweiss’s words as she tried to think of something to say, however with no way of replying in dishonesty, she looked away as she closed her eyes and spoke, “I… I… I don’t know what to do. I’m… I’m lost…”
Cringing with her eyes closed, Queen Anna started to cry as she replied, “My subjects… my kingdom… my king… I failed them all. I couldn’t save any of them. And now…” Tears dripped from her face as she opened her eyes and looked at Edelweiss, “Now… they will all fall. And… it’s all my fault. Why… why couldn’t I do anything for them… why must I face this failure alone, what can I do? I’ve searched for all the answers but without my king… I… I have none.”
Queen Anna looked to the ground as her tears fell, “I… I just don’t know what to do… As improper as it is to allow her subjects to see there queen’s tears… I… I just don’t know what to do.”

As the queen’s tears fell from her face, Edelweiss approached the mare as he stopped in front of her and replied, “Sometimes, there are no good answers… so… when that happens, the best answer is the one that makes you feel better.”
Queen Anna looked at her advisor as she replied, “But… no answer can make me feel content, if they all end with Lilith’s demise.”
Edelweiss looked towards the city as he replied, “True, but this problem won’t go away by simply refusing to choose. The king wouldn’t like that one bit… nor… would I.”
Queen Anna gave him a surprised look as the knowledgeable scholar continued, “Honestly… I doubt there is a way to save Lilith… but… even if I should fall, I think I will stand by my morals and fall doing something noble.”
Queen Anna was curious, “Noble… such as what?”
Edelweiss turned back to the queen and raised his hoof, “If I may…”
Queen Anna didn’t reply, but Edelweiss took it as a yes as he reached up and wiped the tears from her cheek before replying, “I vow to protect my queen, until my dying day. And if for some reason she should fall, then I will fall before her. I stand by that vow, and will see it to be, no matter the obstacles.”

At that moment, Queen Anna felt entirely speechless, as Edelweiss proceeded to put his forearm across his chest and bow in respect to the monarch. Then after a brief pause, he rose from his bow as he spoke, “So… what will you do your majesty? Knowing this, what course of action should you choose for your final moments?”
Queen Anna thought to herself as she replied, “I… I… I will stand by my morals and kingdom… and… fight for them both. Till my last breath.” She looked back to the enemy camp as she replied in anger, “I will protect them… from any threat… even if I cannot… I will try.”
Edelweiss smiled as he looked towards the enemy camp and replied, “Then… I will stand beside you and fulfil my vow.”
Queen Anna looked at Edelweiss as she smiled sincerely, but as she did something seemed to take hold as she started leaning in towards him as if it were reflex. Seeing this, Edelweiss’s smiled faded as he raised his hoof and spoke, “Wait… it’s… it’s not proper.”

As that was said, Queen Anna realized that she was actually leaning in to kiss him as she quickly backed away and spoke, “Wha- I… um… I mean I didn’t… uh…”
Edelweiss spoke, “I understand… The king and I were close friends… it was… just a spur of the moment reflex… nothing meant… and… no need to revisit it.”
Queen Anna had no idea what to say as she hesitated, “I… um… well…”
Edelweiss turned away as he spoke, “Now… perhaps with the hour growing late, it’s better to take my leave. I hope that… my advice was helpful to you your majesty.”
Trying to find the words, Queen Anna replied, “Y-yes, thank you Edelweiss. It was most helpful. Pleasant dreams.”
Edelweiss turned to the queen as he bowed in respect before speaking, “And to you, my queen.”
After his brief bow, Edelweiss turned away and stepped off the wall as he opened his wings and glided down to its base. After leaving Queen Anna placed her hoof over her face in embarrassment as she mumbled, “What came over me? It was as if I were standing with my king… but… he’s not… I mean… he isn’t… it’s…”
Trapped in thought the queen silenced herself as she looked back out of the city and tried to get what happened out of her mind. Down below, Edelweiss was landing at the base of the wall as he looked to a nearby shadow as he spoke, “So… enjoying the show?”
At that moment, Zeil stepped out of the shadows as he spoke, “Sorry… you left in such a hurry I couldn’t help but feel curious as to what you were doing.”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes well… this… this is the one night every year that I can get close to her. And seeing her attempt to kiss me makes me feel like… she remembers me in a way.”

Zeil looked up the city wall as he replied, “You mean… this happens every year?”
Edelweiss nodded, “Almost word for word. She feels troubled and I make her feel better about it. And like every time… she almost kisses me.”
Zeil asked, “Did you ever let her?”
Edelweiss nodded, “I did once… but… afterword, she felt so awkward that she stayed distant with me for the remainder of the week. So… I stop her so I can be with her in the end as I said I would.”
Zeil sighed, “It must be hard… being so close yet so far away. I can’t imagine a worse pain.”
Edelweiss nodded, “I can… a worse pain… is having to kill her.”
Zeil was surprised, “Wh-what?”
Edelweiss nodded as he spoke with pain in his voice, “Yes well… when one becomes despite and looking for answers, one will do anything to find them… and one time I thought she was the one keeping the relic’s true location secret. So… hoping that I could stop its reset, I killed her.”
Zeil felt sympathetic, “Wow… I… I’m sorry you had to go through that.”
Edelweiss nodded, “I had to exhaust all options and well… that was one of them.”

Zeil could only give the disguised alicorn a confused look, “The way you say that… make it seem like you cared little for that act.”
Edelweiss shook his head, “A king must do everything he can to ensure the safety of his kingdom. Even if… it means betraying one you love. For the greater good, and for the chance to end this nightmare early, I had to do everything possible.”
Remembering the situation in Spring Haven, Zeil nodded, “I guess so… though, your own wife… seems a little desperate.”
Edelweiss looked back up to the wall where his queen was standing as he replied, “For my kingdom, it was… but for her, I would do it again if it would prevent her suffering. In a way, it just goes to show that it takes more than this to kill a king. Now… let’s get back to the library. I believe I was going to teach you how to use water magic. After all since we have a full day till the minotaur attack then we can rest easy. I can teach you plenty in that time.”
Trying to end the subject, Edelweiss trotted down the street towards the castle as Zeil followed slowly as he mumbled, “The determination of a king… And here I thought they had it easy.”

Far across the battlefield at the minotaur camp, General Fist sat quietly in his tent as his eyes narrowed to the book that sat on a podium at the opposite side of the quarters. With the air in the room tense with anxiety, the general gazed at the book as if he were trying to force it into intimidation for the secrets held inside. As the general glared at the book, his captain entered the tent as he spoke, “General, we received a message from Lilith. It arrived by ca-”
“Out with it… tell me what the queen says. Did she accept my offer or not?”
The general’s intense glare shifted to the captain making him nervous as the officer tried to read the letter, “W-well…” He cleared his throat, “Dear General Fist, after much deliberation on the offer you have presented me, I’m afraid that I cannot accept it. Though it is true that the Zebra is not a member of my kingdom, nor is he in any way a subject of mine. He is still a guest of my reign and turning him over to you for crimes that have not been presented to me properly would be a tarnish on my crown and could subjugate my reign to a unessisary confrontation with another kingdom of which he is a subject. Therefore, I cannot turn him over to you and humbly aske that you choose another option to barter for the safety of my subjects. Please respond, and I will happily meet with you on the morrow to discuss better terms in person… I pray you resp-“
Before the captain could finish the last sentence of the letter, a chair flew across the room as it colligated the book’s podium shattering both pieces of furniture as the general yelled in anger “Are you kidding me!?! Pride? What Pride? Her king is gone, her kingdom at the cliff’s edge, and she knows that at any moment I can wipe her and her kingdom out of existence!!! Is she truly that foolish! Can she really say that she has any chance of holding onto any pride? Knowing that all it takes is my order and everything she holds disappears!!!”

Flinching at his general’s anger, the captain held his silence as he backed away in worry as the general took the time to breathe before looking back at the mage’s tomb that now sat on the floor amongst the pieces of destroyed furniture. As he looked at the book sitting in the rubble he started to smile, “She mistakes her pride for ignorance does she?... fine… then I’ll have to take him by force.” He looked at his soldier, “Captain! Have the soldiers bedded down for the night?”
The captain nervously replied, “Y-yes sir. They spend most of the day assembling the catapults so I gave them the night to rest.”
The general smiled, “Good, and are the catapults fully operational.”
The captain nodded, “Yes sir they are ready for the battle on Friday just as you ordered.”
The general nodded in agreement as his smile turned sinister, “Then inform your officers to prepare their troops for combat.”
The captain was surprised, “Combat?”
The general nodded, “Yes… because at the first light of dawn we move out… we will attack and destroy Lilith.” He looked at the book while keeping his sinister smiled, “I will get those secrets… but first, I will personally see to it, that no future generations will ever know that the Kingdom of Lilith ever existed.”

Bk7/Ch6 Lilith's Last Day

Book 7 / Chapter 6
Lilith’s Last Day
(Year 4, Month 5, Day 23)

Zeil’s eyes focused on the center candle of a candelabra that sat on the other side of the room as Edelweiss spoke, “Remember, there is no potion, unicorn, or alicorn, magic involved. Everything pertaining to this is using the natural magic that all living things hold. This can be done by any who understand this magic, you must first know your target and its density, then focused on transferring your magic into the liquid. Visualize it as something solid but flexible such as a whip or ribbon. Then sharpen it… and strike.”
Knowing what he had to do, Zeil focused on the candle as much as he could, then when he felt he was ready, he took a small veil of water that he had and poured the liquid on the table next to him. While the water was puddled on the table, Zeil with one quick action slammed his hoof onto the puddle then flung it in a swinging motion as the water flew from his hoof in a curved stream that solidified as it flew towards the candelabra.

As the stream of water approached the candelabra, the sharpened stream sliced through the waxy shaft of the center candle stick but didn’t harm the wick inside as the now cut candle leaned almost completely over as the wick within the wax held the two parts together. As soon as Zeil saw his accomplishment he smiled, “Yes… I got it.”
Edelweiss sighed, “As impressive as it is to see you progress this quickly in only a few hours… you still failed the lesson. I wanted you to aim for cutting off the wick at the top without putting out the flame. Here… you both missed the mark and failed to cut through the wick.”
Zeil sighed in irritation, “Well, at least I managed to do this much. An hour ago I couldn’t even manage to fling the water that far. And even then it only splashed the candle and put it out.”
Edelweiss nodded, “True, as I said, it’s impressive to see this much progress in this short time. But you will need a lot more practice before mastering it.”
Zeil nodded as he looked at his hoof, “That’s true… but at least I know how to do it now.”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes, and in time you will be able to increase the waters strength and distance. One day you could even cut through wood or stone with it.”
Zeil looked at his hoof as he remembered the mage and mumbled to himself, “Or a griffin’s neck.”

Not hearing his student Edelweiss replied, “What was that?”
Zeil replied, “Oh I said uh… my neck… it feels a little stiff.”
Edelweiss nodded, “Yes well your natural magic is still a part of you. Using it too much can cause fatigue or even sickness. Be sure to use it sparingly.”
At that moment Edelweiss looked at a nearby window as he saw the sun begin to rise, “Oh… we were at it all night it would seem… you better go get some rest. I can watch over Dr. Grey for the morning. Then when you’re ready and rested you can join in and help for the rest of the day.”
Using a rag to clean up the remaining water, Zeil replied, “I’ll be fine, this journey I’m on has given me plenty of long nights so I can handle a day without sleep.”
Edelweiss placed the book they were using back on a bookshelf as he replied, “If you say so, I won’t stop you. Then I guess we can go to the main gate. Since the battle won’t start till tomorrow, we can see if Dr. Grey attempts to check on the relic. If he is storing it at his home, then he will try to move it into the barren part of the city today.”
After that was said, Zeil put on his cloak as Edelweiss made sure his turban was tight before the two proceeded to leave the library.

With that said, the two enchanters left the castle library as they both made their way into the city. As they trotted through the streets of Lilith, Zeil asked, “So where should we start? Should we check the small medic hospital that he set up at the city gate?”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Yes, if I remember right he starts this day at the gate then later he w-”
Before he could finish, Edelweiss silenced himself when he and Zeil both noticed a herd of ponies were rushing up the street as if they were running from something. At the same time, a number of royal soldiers were running in the opposite way as Zeil spoke, “What’s going on?”
Edelweiss was confused as he started to reply, “I’m not sure, this usually doesn’t happen… I wonder wh-”
At that moment Edelweiss was once again interrupted only this time it was by a strange crashing sound that happened at another part of the city that echoed through the streets. After hearing the crash, Zeil looked in the direction the sound came from as he spoke, “What was that?”

When the cloaked changeling looked back at Edelweiss, he saw the disguised scholar looking into the air in shock as Zeil looked in the same direction to see something strange. In clear morning sky, Zeil could see a strange black dot in the air that seemed to be growing with every fragment of a second passed. However Zeil soon realized what it was as Edelweiss tackled him to the ground as he yelled, “LOOKOUT!!!”
As the disguised alicorn tackled Zeil to the ground a massive boulder crashed to the ground behind him as the carriage sized boulder shattered the cobblestone road before rolling across the ground crushing everything and everypony in the road before hitting and toppling a building. As the two picked themselves up Zeil asked, “W-was that a rock?”
Edelweiss didn’t answer the question, instead he spoke in shock, “No… they are attacking today? But why? It’s a day early… Anna…”
Without looking at Zeil, Edelweiss opened his wing and took off into the air as fast as he could as Zeil tried to stop him, “Wait! Matthias!”
But it was no use, Before Zeil could even try to stop him, the frantic king had already flown out of sight as Zeil mumbled, “He went to the gate… I better get there, and fast.”
Running as fast as he could Zeil took off down the road while bobbing and weaving through both the fleeing civilians and the charging soldiers.

Moments later, Queen Anna and Captain Rose were standing on the city wall wearing their battle armor as the queen called, “Captain! Have your troops clear the streets! Open the castle gates and allow all to take refuge in the keep.”
The captain nodded as he turned to follow his orders, “Yes your majesty!”
As the unicorn captain ran to follow his orders, Edelweiss landed next to the queen as he spoke, “Your majesty? What’s happening? The attack wasn’t supposed to begin until tomorrow.”
The queen replied, “It would seem that General Fist wasn’t loyal to his words.” She looked down the castle wall at the soldiers who were firing arrows at the enemy soldiers, “Stand your ground and do everything you can to prevent them from reaching the walls!”
At that time Edelweiss looked outside the city. Though they were approaching slowly the massive army of minotaur marched in perfect rows and ranks with the first rank raising shields in front of them and a second rank with shields above protecting them from the arrows that the defending ponies fired in their direction. A thousand meters behind them, sat four trebuchets that each fired a large boulder every few minutes. Behind the first few ranks of soldiers rolled a large battering ram that with its covered roof provided protection for its crew of soldiers inside the siege weapon.

Seeing the coming enemy Edelweiss shook his head, “This wasn’t supposed to happen… not today.”
As Edelweiss turned back to his queen he started to speak but was silenced when she spoke first, “Edelweiss, withdraw to the castle and protect the citizens. I’ll do what I can to hold the ground here. Just protect my subjects.”
Edelweiss continued looking at the enemy troops as he shook his head as he spoke with a commanding tone, “No, since this wasn’t supposed to happen yet, I can’t say what will happen next. First thing is first, we need to get you out of here. Gather the forces and make for the keep, I will hold the ground here.”
Queen Anna was confused, although Edelweiss dropped the act, this was still the first time to her knowledge that he had acted this way as she spoke, “D-did you just give me an order?”
Edelweiss turned his head slightly and shifted his sight to her as he replied, “Look, this wasn’t supposed to happen yet, I can’t predict what will happen next, so I can’t ensure your safety. For now it would be better t-”
“INCOMMING!!!!”

At that moment, a large boulder fired from one of the trebuchets colligated with the top of the wall only a few feet below where the two were standing as the shockwave from the massive crashed both knocked the two from the wall and caused it to dip down before half of the twenty foot stone structure started to topple over. Acting fast, Edelweiss grabbed his queen and opened his wings, gliding away from the falling structure and ensuring a safe landing for he and his wife. However in his haste to save his love, the disguised alicorn didn’t realize that the shockwave from the colliding boulder loosened the turban on his head as the wrapped fabric unravel in his glide exposing his dark mane, and his shattered horn beneath. As soon as the couple landed, Edelweiss looked to his bride as he spoke, “Are you alright? You’re not hurt are you?”
At first the queen only nodded in agreement, but as soon as she saw his horn, the queen’s eyes widened, “E-Edelweiss? Your… you’re a-“
“Edelweiss!”

At that moment, Zeil rushed up as he spoke, “There you are! Sorry I couldn’t keep up, remember I can’t fly anymore.”
Edelweiss looked to Zeil and nodded, “Yes, my apologies Mr. Zeil, I must have lost myself for a second.”
Zeil looked at his head and replied, “Are you alright? Your turban is gone.”
Edelweiss paid it no mind as he replied, “That matter’s not. We must find Dr. Grey and end this now!”
After hearing that, Zeil looked to the field hospital that sat at the base of the wall as he replied, “Umm… That won’t be so easy.”
Confused, Edelweiss looked to the same field hospital as he gasped in shock. At the base of what was once a massive wall now sat a pile of stone and mortar, which was crushing a now destroyed field hospital. Before Edelweiss could respond, he saw something in the clearing dust as he spoke, “No… DR. GREY!!!”
Confused, Zeil and Queen Anna looked to the wall’s base as they saw a combination of Stone, wood posts, and tent canvas. And sticking partially out from under it all, was the lifeless Dr. Grey. Panicking, Edelweiss rushed to the rubble as he started picking up pieces of stone as he called, “Zeil help me!!! We have to get him out!”
At first Zeil started to do the same, but after only a quick glance over the visible doctor. Zeil stopped as he spoke, “It’s no use… it doesn’t take my changeling abilities to tell that… he is already gone.”

Although she wanted to say something, Queen Anna was trying to process all that was happening as she mumbled to herself, “Changeling?...”
Edelweiss stopped what he was doing as he looked at the corpse of the doctor and shook his head, “No… it… it can’t be…”
Edelweiss took a few steps back from the rubble before sitting down in depression, “He was the last option… the only one left.”
Queen Anna held her silence as Zeil asked, “This should be good right? If he is dead then he can’t activate the relic?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “No… we needed to destroy the relic… just because he is dead doesn’t mean the reset won’t happen. Without him to guard it, the minotaur will occupy the city and search for it themselves… and when they find it, they will most likely use it… and cause this war to continue for another year.”

Queen Anna was now too confused to speak as she continued to watch in worry as Zeil replied, “That’s it then? There is no other way?”
Edelweiss shook his head as he replied, “To my knowledge… no… now… when the reset happens again… you will be here too. The memories of those you love… and your own life will be only a dream to you. I’m… I’m truly sorry I couldn’t help you Mr. Zeil.”
Zeil thought through their options, “Are… you absolutely sure he has the relic? Maybe he is working with somepony else, There could always be two guarding it.”
Edelweiss shook his head as he replied with an annoyed tone, “I told you already, I’ve checked every living pony in this city… there… there are no others who could be hiding the real relic. It’s over…” He looked down in disappointment, “We lost…”
Edelweiss started rubbing his head in irritation as Zeil too sat down to think about the situation. As he sat, Zeil looked at the dead doctor that laid under the rubble, to the rubble that crushed him, then he panned his eyes over to the undamaged parts of the wall and field hospital that sat less than a hundred feet away, then the lines of bodies that sat just beyond that. When he looked back to the rubble crushing the field hospital, Zeil saw a kingdom banner sitting amongst the debris as he saw something that brought back a faint memory. The banner that was once posted on the top of the castle wall, was slightly stained with blood from the doctor’s body as he started to think about where he had seen this image before, “Wait… a second…”

Panning his eyes back to the rows of bodies, Zeil once again brought his attention to something he had seen earlier. Amongst the perfect rows of different shaped bodies, Zeil saw the one empty spot in the rows and the tarp that once covered whatever body that sat in its place. As Zeil looked at the empty spot he mumbled to himself, “He… checked every living pony in the city… every, Living one… That’s it!”
When Zeil looked back to the depressed king he could see Queen Anna approaching to console him, but before she could, Zeil spoke without thinking, “Matthias!”
Both the Queen and Edelweiss looked to Zeil as the changeling continued, “You said you’ve checked every living pony in the city right? All who are still alive?”
Edelweiss gave Zeil a confused look as the changeling spoke with optimism, “How about none living ones?”
Edelweiss gave Zeil a confused look as Zeil asked, “The barren part of the city… are there any bakeries there?”
Edelweiss replied, “Bakeries? But why wou… wait…” He smiled, “As a matter of fact there is one.”
Zeil nodded, “That is where the relic is… I’m sure of it!”

Edelweiss depression seemed to disappear completely as he nodded in confidence, “Then that’s where we go.”
That said, Edelweiss turned towards the queen who was still trying to process what was happening as he spoke, “Anna, leave the army to hold the gate for a little while longer, at this rate we have about an hour before the rest of the wall is breeched. As for you, go to the castle and barricade the doors. No matter what, stay there until I come for you… if all goes well, it will be soon.”
The queen was confused, she couldn’t tell what was happening around her, but as she looked into Edelweiss’s eyes, she started to see something familiar in him as she could only nod as Edelweiss smiled, “Good… stay safe, my love.”
That said, Edelweiss looked to Zeil as he spoke, “Let’s go Zeil… It’s time we put an end to this war. Once and for all!”
After that was said, the disguised changeling and now undisguised alicorn rushed down the road leaving Queen Anna in confusion as she spoke, “Changeling… Reset… M-Matthias… C-can it be?”

A few minutes later, the two enchanters arrived in the abandon part of Lilith as they approached the only bakery in the region. As they looked at the building, Zeil noticed that this seemed to be the usual style of bakery with a single door entrance and a large display window on the front as he looked at the closed sign that was nailed to the door. As they approached the door Zeil asked, “Okay we are here… how do we get in?”
With no words, Edelweiss turned around and used his hind hooves to kick in the door as he watched the door fly open and slam against the wall. With the door now open Edelweiss spoke, “We have no time for pleasantries.”
Zeil nodded, “I guess not.”
As they entered, the dethroned alicorn spoke, “If the relic is here… then it’s probably hidden in the back. You look around here, while I check the back room. And keep an eye out for one guarding it.”

Zeil nodded in agreement as Edelweiss trotted behind the counter and went into the back room. Though the front room seemed like a normal store with a front counter and a number of shelves, the room still seemed to have a number of cupboards as Zeil started searching through were the relic could have been stashed away. As he looked through the seemingly empty room, he eventually made his way to the cabinet that sat just under the display window. After seeing that these cabinets were also empty a familiar voice caught him off guard, “When I first met you, I never though you would be such a nuisance.”
Surprised Zeil quickly turned to the speaking pony, but as he did, the cloaked stranger grabbed him by the shoulders, spun him around, and threw him through the display window as Zeil flew through the shattering glass and into the street. Stunned, Zeil picked himself up as the cloaked figure stepped through the broken window and out onto the street, “Do you have any idea of the mess you brought? A full day early! If not for you and that book, things would have gone just as they should!”

At that moment, Edelweiss rushed out the front door of the bakery as he looked to the stallion and spoke, “Sourdough!!! So it’s true then… you’ve been responsible for this whole thing from the very start!”
The cloaked earthpony lowered the hood on his cloak as he looked towards Edelweiss and smiled, “Yes… I suppose I am. And I knew from the moment I realized you kept your memories, that you would eventually figure me out… though it took you long enough.”
Edelweiss replied in anger, “Cut the small talk and tell me already… Where is the relic?”
Sourdough replied in confusion, “Where?”
The angry king spoke again, “Don’t play dumb… Zeil figured it out on his own. You have been faking your own death every year to take suspicion off of you for over three thousand years so you could hide the relic with nopony suspecting you! You left a decoy in the castle so no matter what happened to it, you could activate the real relic every year without fail. Am I right?”
Sourdough nodded, “Well… partially… I had thought you had realized it long ago… but I guess I overestimated your deductive skills.”
Edelweiss replied, “What are you talking about?”

Sourdough smiled as he turned completely to Edelweiss and replied, “I haven’t been hiding the relic… I am the relic.”
Both Edelweiss and Zeil were surprised, as Edelweiss replied, “W-what?”
Sourdough replied, “It is as I say… I am the relic. I know not the world before I was placed in that monolith, then your soldiers released me from one prison, only to place me in another… Your coffers… that is, until your queen activated my power.”
Sourdough started pacing around Edelweiss as he continued, “I may be a tool purposed to serve one who wishes to use me, but even I want the ability to roam the world.” He looked up, “To see the sky, to feel the sun… but… that can only happen should somepony be desperate enough to toy with time.”
Edelweiss became angry, “Toy with time? Is that the purpose of your power?”
Sourdough nodded, “It is… I am purposed to grant any wish that can be granted with the manipulation of time. Although, a vague wish can result in…” He raised his hooves in a manner to bring all attention to the burning and crumbling city around them, “This…”

Edelweiss gave Sourdough a distrusting look as he replied, “Vague? What are you talking about?... Nopony would ever wish for this?”
Sourdough smiled for a few second before opening his mouth and speaking with a voice that sounded exactly like Queen Anna, “Please… I know not the power you hold, but I cannot allow my kingdom to fall. I beg of you, save my subjects… ensure their survival. So saith th-… no… I am no longer a queen. I cannot call myself one if I can’t even ensure my own kingdom’s future.”
Edelweiss was confused by the copied voice as Sourdough’s voice went back to normal, “See… she wished for this. She wanted her kingdom to survive and for her to be able to rule her kingdom well into the future. Or at least that’s how I read it. So… I reset time to repeat the last week of Lilith’s survival, and ensure that it would remain a kingdom until its last queen, her, had met her end… But no longer then the day of her first death.”
Edelweiss glared with anger, “This wasn’t her wish… this isn’t what she wanted!”
Sourdough nodded, “True, Later I discovered what she truly meant… but the wish was already set and until it ends… I can’t allow it willingly to stop or change.”
Zeil asked, “And when is it supposed to end?”
Sourdough shrugged his shoulders, “Future is a vague term. The future as she put it, is eternal, and with no date or year set, so too is this wish. If she had specified a time for it to end then it would have… but I’m afraid the wish can’t be changed while in term. If it ended you could change it, but it won’t end… a poor use for a relic as powerful as I, but… that’s how fate has set it.”

Edelweiss was enraged, but before he could reply, he heard a voice come from behind as the shocked queen spoke, “So then… you are the true traitor! And I… caused this?...”
Everypony in the area looked over to see Captain Rose and Queen Anna standing not far down the road with expressions that said they heard the whole story. Confused Queen Anna spoke, “So… it’s true then… Lilith has already fallen… and… you Edelweiss? Are… are you… my king?... Matthias?”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “I am my love, but that doesn’t matter. What does matter, is that in order for this war to end… we must end this traitor’s life.”
Captain Rose nodded as he stepped forward and drew his sword, “I don’t know what is going on… but if it’s what I think it is… then I know what I must do…” He pointed the sword at Sourdough as he spoke in anger, “Sourdough! You are suspected of treason! Punishment of such a crime is death! Do you have anything to say in your defense?”
Sourdough smiled, “The road to destruction, is paved with the best of intentions.”
Captain Rose replied, “Are you saying your actions are justified?”
The sinister stallion shook his head as he replied, “I wasn’t speaking of my actions… I was speaking of hers.”
That said, Sourdough gestured towards Queen Anna as the queen took a step back in shock. Seeing her reaction Captain Rose charged in anger as he yelled, “YOU WILL EAT THOSE WORDS!!!”

Without orders, Captain Rose charged at Sourdough as the stallion only stood and watched with a smile on his face. As Captain Rose approached his target he reared back his sword and swung vertically with all his strength, however Sourdough only smiled as he quickly sidestepped the attack before stepping forward and swinging only once with his right hoof as the quick and precise attack struck the armored captain right behind his head with enough force to knock him unconscious. As the lifeless body of the attacking captain fell, Sourdough caught his falling sword as he smiled sinisterly, “An earnest attempt, but… for one who was a geographer prior to his first reset… a foolish one.”
“ENOUGH!!!”
Sourdough looked to Queen Anna as the armored mare drew her sword and spoke, “I am the Queen of this kingdom… and as such I command you to stand down. Otherwise, I will take you down by force.”
Sourdough pointed his sword at her as he smiled, “Good luck trying.”

With that said, Sourdough reared his sword back as if to swing horizontally as Edelweiss saw this and yelled, “ANNA!!! GET OUT OF HERE!!!”
Before anything could be said or done, Sourdough swung his sword as a barely visible slash of magic flew from his blade directly towards the distant queen. Seeing the incoming projectile, Queen Anna held her sword vertically in an attempt to block the airborne slash, however as the magic hit her sword, it acted as if it were air, as it phased through the blade and continued before hitting Queen Anna in her face, throwing her back and to the ground. Seeing this Edelweiss and Zeil ran to the downed mare as Edelweiss called, “ANNA!!!”
As he picked up his lifeless queen, Edelweiss saw that the attack left no wounds and she was still breathing as he yelled, “Anna!” He looked to Sourdough, “What did you do?”
Sourdough smiled, “This fight is between you and I, No need for her to get in evolved any further.” He readied his sword, “I knew this day would come, and now… it has. On your guard, King Matthias.”

Edelweiss looked down to his wife’s body, then to her sword that was lying beside her as he spoke, “For my kingdom… and my love…” He laid his wife on the ground and picked up her blade as he held it at the ready, “It is my task to save my subjects from this endless cycle of bloodshed.” He looked to the side, “Zeil… watch over her, but leave this fight to me… it’s my honor as King of Lilith to end this myself.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Watch yourself, I can’t sense anything about him so I can’t tell what emotion is driving him forward. Just keep a clear head, and I’ll do what I can from here.”
Edelweiss nodded as he replied, “Of course… Thank you my friend.”
Seeing this, Sourdough smiled as he removed his cloak to reveal the same armor he wore the day Zeil arrived as he readied his sword, “Then… let this be a fight for Lilith.”
As that was said, Edelweiss charged at Sourdough as the suspected relic stood his ground just as he did with Captain Rose’s charge. As Edelweiss swung his sword, Sourdough quickly raised his weapon as he blocked the attack and locked the two in place. With both weapons against one another Sourdough smiled, “Really your majesty? Surely you didn’t think that after three millennia of fighting the same war, that I wouldn’t gain at least the basics of defending myself?”
Edelweiss smiled, “Actually… I was hoping for it…”

With that Edelweiss pushed his opponent away as he made more attempts to strike his target. As Edelweiss made many more attempts to kill his opponent, Sourdough reacted with only defensive blocks as he spoke, “I’m surprised your so cross with me your majesty… isn’t it a dream of you mortals to wish for eternal life and youth?... Think about it, it’s been three millennia and you have yet to age a single year of that time… furthermore, you have retained all your memories of the passing year, so unlike those around you, you had a chance to enjoy your immortality.”
With his attacks becoming more and more furious, Edelweiss replied while continuing his assault, “Enjoy? ENJOY!?! What’s there to enjoy?... You imprison my kingdom! You bring them back to this pointless war! You continuously allow them to see their impending death, then let them wait until it comes for THEM!!!”
With emphasis in his last word, Edelweiss made one powerful slash in a vertical motion as Sourdough blocked the attack then stepped to the side allowing the attack to glance downward leaving Edelweiss to stagger in his own motion and anger.

After parrying the blade away, Sourdough took a number of steps away to catch his breath as he replied, “I only followed the wish granted… I allowed the kingdom to return to its former glory and ensured its future survival.”
After regaining his balance Edelweiss gave the ponyfied relic an angry look, “Survival? It figures… an inanimate object like you could never understand!!!”
Edelweiss charged at Sourdough once more, “There is a difference between surviving and living!!!”
With that Sourdough not only blocked Edelweiss’s anger fueled attack, he also rolled his blade around the other and parried it away flinging the sword out of Edelweiss’s hoof as if flew behind him and towards where Zeil was standing. As the sword hit the ground Edelweiss jumped back from his target as he started breathing heavily in his exhaustion. As Edelweiss took his breath Sourdough smiled, “Temper your majesty… you know as well as I, that a hot head, makes not a skillful fighter.”

As Edelweiss glared at his foe, Zeil started slowly moving towards the sword until something unexpected caught their eye, as the two fought, a group of minotaurs soldiers started making their way through the streets as one called, “Look we found a few trying to flee! Get them!”
Quickly remembering that there was a war going on around them, Sourdough turned towards the approaching soldiers, however as he did, a large boulder fired from one of the distant catapults fell into the area as the loose projectile rolled down the road and through the side of the charging minotaur formation before hitting the base of a tall tower. Surprised by the unexpected save Sourdough mumbled, “That works too…”
As that was said, the tall tower that was hit at its base started leaning in their direction as the tall structure began falling towards them. Since the tower wasn’t tall enough to reach them, most of them paid it any mind as Sourdough started turning back to Edelweiss, “Now where wer-“
“ZEIL NOW!!!”

At that moment, Zeil who had already reached Edelweiss’s swords, kicked the weapon across the ground as the sound of metal grinding against stone echoed through the area until it reached Edelweiss who not only readied himself for the weapon’s delivery, but had gotten close enough to his target so that his next strike couldn’t be dodged or blocked. As the weapon slid to Edelweiss’s hooves, the quick king grabbed it and used its momentum to swing in an upward angle as Sourdough did his best to jump back to dodge the attack. As this happened, the falling tower had just reached the ground as the crashing structure sent a large cloud of dust that flew in and concealed the area just as Edelweiss’s attack made contact with its target. As the cloud of dust hit them, Zeil shielded his eyes from the debris before looking across the dust covered area towards the two fighters who still stood amongst the now clouded area. The first thing Zeil looked towards was Edelweiss’s blade to see if there was any blood on his weapon, but as he saw the weapon was still clean he mumbled, “Did he miss?”
Then when Zeil saw the king’s expression his answer was clear as Edelweiss stared at his foe in shock.

With the dust proving too thick to see clearly, Zeil decided to trot into the dust cloud until he could finally see both fighting stallion clearly. As he got close Zeil’s expression started to match Edelweiss as he saw what was happening. Edelweiss’s attack made contact as was intended, however Sourdough’s flesh didn’t cut like normal, instead it was shattered away as if he were actually made of hollowed out glass. As the weakened relic stood he looked down at his cracking wound as he smiled, “For a soldier… dropping your guard is no different from dropping your life.” He looked up at Edelweiss, “Well played… your majesty.”
That said, the glasslike earthpony fell to the ground as both Edelweiss and Zeil started approaching the defeated stallion as he spoke, “So… this is what death feels like… after faking it every reset… I never actually experienced it before.”
With a dark tone, Edelweiss spoke, “How does it feel?”
Sourdough replied, “It’s… strange… I feel… cold… and afraid yet… I have nothing to be truly afraid of… do I? Why do I feel fear… when there is nothing to fear?”
Zeil replied, “It’s called mortality, that fear is of what comes next, what happens after death.”

Sourdough looked Zeil in the eye, “And… what comes next?”
Zeil shook his head, “That’s just it… nopony truly knows. Some have theories, and others follow what religion teaches, but… in all actuality, that is the truest mystery of life.”
Sourdough thought to himself, “…Interesting I always thought the truest mystery was…” He looked at Edelweiss, “What you always asked… tell me… How do you kill a king?” He laid back to look at the sky, “I’ve pondered this question for over a millennia and still… I haven’t been able to find the answer. Have you?”
Edelweiss shook his head, “You can’t… a king’s heart may one day stop beating… but it’s his will to his subjects that lives on. So long as his kingdom stands, or his subjects carry his crown on in their own way… a king will never truly die.”
Sourdough chuckled through his pain, “Well said… though, technically this means you have died every year for thirty three hundred years.”
Edelweiss nodded, “Technically… yes.”
The dyeing pony nodded, “Then… you felt this pain every time… as did your subjects… and… your queen.” Tears built up in his eyes, “This pain… I… I don’t like it… If this is what I put you through… then… I apologize. I know forgiveness is undeserved… but… if this is truly what you felt… then… for this, I deserve death. And you… deserve to be free.”

And with that as his final words, Sourdough closed his eyes, as the cracking slash that was in his chest started spreading over his body until he looked like a shattered glass sculpture. Then rather than the pieces of his shattered body falling in on themselves, they started breaking apart as they flew upward and disappeared into the air. Though it took a second for his entire body to follow suit, soon the broken relic’s body had completely disappeared as Edelweiss sighed and spoke, “I guess… since it’s all over now… I can find a way to forgive you… in time.”
“M-Matthias?”
At that moment, both Zeil and Edelweiss looked through the descending dust as he saw Queen Anna trotting through the dust as she spoke, “I… I remember now… my memories… of that day and every year sense… I remember. You returned to us a few years after Lilith fell… but… something kept me from seeing who you are. From seeing my king before me.”
Edelweiss dropped his sword as he trotted to his queen and smiled, “I know… Sourdough held back you memories from you. He held back the memories of all of Lilith.” As he approached his queen, he embraced her as she replied, “Yes… but somehow… I pity him. I could see his life unfold as he died… I could see his intentions. He was just as much a prisoner as I… as all of Lilith was.”

Edelweiss was confused, “Intentions?”
Queen Anna nodded, “He needed to be free, his time here wasn’t just painful to use. He felt trapped as well.”
Edelweiss stopped embracing his wife as he looked to where Sourdough was laying before, “Whether he was trapped or not… I’m only grateful it’s over. Now, we ca-”
All of a sudden a loud cracking sound was heard as both Edelweiss and Anna looked to Anna’s chest as a spider web like crack appeared on her skin as if she too were made of glass. As he saw the cracking flesh Edelweiss mumbled, “So… it’s happening then.”
Worried Anna looked at her husband as she spoke, “What’s happening?”
Edelweiss took her hoof as he replied, “Listen to me Anna, no matter what happens from this point on, just know one thing. I love you with all my heart, and weather it’s in life or death, I will be with you soon. Just wait for me till then, all right?
As the cracks started spreading over the rest of her body, Anna managed to keep herself calm as she smiled and placed her other hoof on his cheek, “I love you my king… and I trust we will be together soon. Till then, I’ll wait for yo-”
Before she was able to finish her sentence, Queen Anna, the last queen of Lilith crumbled into glass shards as they all drifted upwards and vanished without a trace.

After his wife vanished before his eyes, Edelweiss took his now empty hoof and placed it against his chest as he mumbled, “I love you my queen… and I’ll see you soon.”
Worried Zeil spoke, “Matthias? What’s happening? Where did she go?”
Edelweiss turned to Zeil as he lowered the hoof from his chest as it revealed a large crack that appeared on his chest as he spoke, “My guess, everything is going back to the way it’s supposed to… though… I can’t say how. Best case scenario, we all wake up unscathed in Lilith in our own time or in yours. But it’s possible that those who perished in the first reset won’t awaken at all. Then… a much worse case scenario is that we all die… including you.”
Zeil was concerned, “What? But… the reset never happened while I was here.”
Edelweiss nodded, “I know… but we can’t rule out the possibility… either way… I hope if anything, you at least wake up unharmed… thanks to your help, I was able to save my kingdom and my subjects. I… I only have my thanks to give you in return. Thank you my friend… for everything.”
As the cracks started spreading across his body Edelweiss smiled sincerely as Zeil nodded, “It was the least I could do… your majesty.”
Edelweiss smiled back as he thought to himself, “Actually now that I think about it… for your help I could always kn-”
Before Edelweiss could finish his sentence, he too shattered into glass shards and drifted upwards as Zeil could only watch the pieces of the last king of the fallen kingdom vanish into the air.

However this too was cut short as Zeil heard a loud shattering sound as he looked to the distance to see the Castle in the center of the city shatter into its own clustered mess of glass shards that started drifting into the air and disappeared. Confused, Zeil looked around, everywhere he looked cracks in the environment started forming and spreading over every surface stone, wood, even the horizon and sky above seemed to begin shattering into millions of glass fragments that seemed to drift upward and disperse into nothingness. Slightly worried Zeil looked around and just as he remembered Captain Rose was laying on the ground not far from him, he soon saw the unconscious soldier shatter and drift upward leaving nothing in its place. As the ground started cracking from under his hooves, Zeil soon felt his heart race with worry, then a sharp pain raced across his chest as he looked down to see that now, a crack started appearing on his own body as Zeil watched it spread across his torso without slowing down. Now terrified of what was next, Zeil took a step back just as the ground shattered from beneath him as the scared changeling started to fall into a seemingly infinite abyss below him. As Zeil fell, he could feel the last bit of sharp pain cross over his face as he closed his eyes in worry. As he made this last action, Zeil saw the darkness of his closed eyes open up into light as a bright light shined onto him making it impossible to see even himself as he too dissolved into glass fragments, then nothingness.

Bk7/Ch7 The Last Knight of Lilith

Book 7 / Chapter 7
The Last Knight of Lilith
(Year ??, Month ??, Day ??)

Filled with fear, Zeil quickly opened his eyes as he quickly sat up and breathed heavily. In his panic, Zeil quickly looked around at his surroundings, the ground he was laying on was an old and worn cobblestone street that was warm to the touch by the overhead sun. All around him was an assortment of old ruins that once resembled a city. Some ruins were stationary buildings with walls and doorways with the wooden rooves and windowpanes rotted completely away. But most of the ruins were crumbled or barren foundations that could only prove that whatever caused this city to be deserted, came by force. Either way the ruined city that stood around him seemed all but empty and lifeless as Zeil sat down and tried to calm himself from his unknown fear. As he tried to breathe calmly, Zeil felt confused. First, he had no idea what he was afraid of or why he felt so terrified. Second, he his head felt fuzzy and any recent memories he had seemed to be a complete haze, and third, he had no idea where he was or why he was there. His last clear memory, was setting up camp near an open field for the night.

As he finally calmed himself down to think straight, Zeil decided to stand up as he looked closely at his surroundings. The ruins were very old, centuries or more by his own guess, but nothing about them seemed to answer any questions he had. Either way, there was something about them that seemed familiar to him. He couldn’t understand it, but part of him thought this was something he had seen before. As he tried to understand why the structures were familiar, Zeil approached one of the buildings that had a large empty window in the front as he placed his hoof against the wall and mumbled, “I’ve seen this before… a bakery? Or…” He shook his head in disregard, “Déjà vu?”
Putting it to the back of his mind, Zeil decided to start traveling up the street to find a place that seemed inhabited. As he trotted down the road, Zeil looked towards the center of the city to see the ruins of an old castle standing in the distance. This seemed more familiar to him as Zeil looked at the old structure and mumbled, “Why… does everything seem so familiar, I know I’ve never been here before… have I?”
As he trotted trying to remember, Zeil’s focus was brought to the cross reads ahead as he could hear voices just around the next turn. Curious Zeil trotted towards the closest intersection as he looked down the crossing road to see two ponies trotting towards him. One was young goldish colored mare with a black and grey mane wearing an explorer’s hat and jacket. The other was a much older faded red stallion who also wore an explorer jacket only his was old and worn with age.

The two ponies didn’t notice Zeil yet, as they continued up the road with the younger mare responding to the stallion’s previous statement, “So… she used the relic without knowing what it could bring?”
The stallion nodded, “Yes, the queen was concerned for her subject’s safety. So much in fact, that she decided that whatever power the minotaur wanted to take could be used to save her kingdom… However, the power the relic held turned out to be too much for her to handle. Rather than save her kingdom, she actually doomed them all to a temporal loop. One that forced everypony to relive the last week of Lilith’s existence… which included, the final invasion, and the execution of the entire kingdom.”
The mare looked at the ground in thought as she replied, “Whoa… how cruel is fate… to make a drastic move to save your kingdom, but instead doom them to eternal war.”
The elder stallion nodded, “The road to destruction is paved with the best of intentions. I heard that the day we were saved, but… it was after that I truly understood it.”
The mare asked, “So… when were you saved? And how?”
The stallion replied, “Well for me, it was about fifty or so years ago. But in actuality, the time is unknown. We all existed in a place outside of time and space and when it all ended we returned to when we became trapped.”

The mare persisted with determination, “But how did you return? Everything I’ve read and researched came up with empty mysteries and speculation. And none have even come close to explaining what happened to the relic itself.”
The older stallion smiled, “Patience my young explorer… everything in due time. True we were all trapped in an infinite loop, and with our memories being reset along with the start of each loop, none of us knew we were trapped to begin with. However at some point, King Matthias who wasn’t imprison during the first reset, found himself trapped in the loop along with us. And with his broken horn shorting out the magic that came with each reset, he was the only one knowing about the trap that we were in. But he alone couldn’t do what was needed to break the loop. It was only after a changeling found himself trapped in the loop that the two were finally able to solve the mystery and free everypony from the spell.”
The mare took out a notepad, “A changeling… strange he wasn’t mentioned in any of the texts. I saw some stuff about a zebra but then again, that reference was easily three centuries old. So… do you happen to know his name?”
The stallion nodded, “Yes I do… I myself called him by another moniker. But his given name wa-“

Before the elderly stallion could finish his sentence, he looked forward down the road as he saw Zeil standing there as he replied in shock “Zeil… is… is it really possible?”
Forgetting the mare was there, the elder unicorn trotted faster until he approached Zeil and spoke, “So… it’s true it really is you. And… you haven’t aged a day… I was worried I wouldn’t live to see this moment.” The stallion smiled as he spoke, “It’s good to see you again… Stripes.”
As soon as that was said, Zeil suddenly knew who he was talking to as he spoke, “C-Captain Rose?”
The elder stallion chuckled, “I haven’t been called captain in many many years, but it is good to hear it again… brings back memories, some of which are… less than pleasant. Now, I go by Professor Rose. Before I was captain of Lilith’s soldiers I was a geographer at a university gathering information on a curtain lost city. But enough about that, I’m sure by your expression, your confused as to why you called me that right?”
Zeil tried to think as he nodded, “Yea… for some reason… my memories are… fuzzy… I don’t know why but all I remember other than going to sleep in a tent, are… glimpses of… what seems like… a dream.”

The elderly professor nodded, “Or a nightmare. It’s common to have a small amount of temporary amnesia after returning from that other Lilith. But… like the rest, they should return in a few days or so… in the meantime, there is something I need to show you. Something that may speed up the process a little.”
As the elder stallion turned around, the younger Pegasus gave him an annoyed look as she spoke, “Um… can I have a little explanation of what’s going on here?”
Compass Rose smiled, “Oh… my apologies, I forgot you were here for a second.” He looked at Zeil, “Stripes, this here is the archeologist, explorer, and author, Daring Do Dazzle. Or you may know her by her pen name A.K. Yearling.”
Sighing in hopelessness, Daring Do replied, “You can call me Daring Do or Daring is fine. Anyways… who is this professor? What exactly is going on?”
Compass Rose trotted by Daring Do as he replied, “This is Sir Zeil. And, he is the answer to your question. Though more will be answered once we reach the plaza.”
As Compass trotted down the road quickly, Daring Do replied, “The answer to my question?”
Zeil added, “Sir Zeil?”

As they started trotting Compass Rose spoke, “So, Mr. Zeil… when did you wake?”
At first Zeil was confused but after thinking about the question he replied, “I guess… a few minutes ago.”
Compass nodded, “I see, was it just a few blocks over?”
Zeil nodded in confusion, “Um… yes… in the middle of the street.”
Compass nodded, “I woke at the same place. But it make sense, since we were at the same location when it all ended.”
Zeil asked, “When what all ended?”
Compass smiled, “The war… but, it’s better that you see it for yourself.”
Zeil asked, “See what?”
Compass continued, “What happens when one who is truly selfless stumbles upon a city in need.”
Confused, Zeil looked at Daring Do who only responded to his look with a shrug as the two continued following the elderly pony down the road.

After a few minutes of traveling the trio finally reached their destination which was an open plaza in the center of the city. As Zeil entered the plaza he started to recognize the area as he remembered seeing many ponies trotting through the open street doing their daily errands. However as he remembered this setting there was something in the center of the plaza that wasn’t present in these memories. In the center of the once empty plaza stood a large statue that stood almost twelve feet in height as the elderly pony led the two guest to the base of the monument. As the three approached the statue, Zeil observed the figure that was immortalized in stone. At first Zeil thought it was a cloaked pony however as he looked closely at the statue, he could see indentions in the worn stone that resembled stripes on the figure as the mare spoke in shock, “Its… it’s you Zeil. This statue is a statue of you.”
Zeil shook his head in disbelief, “But… how? And why?”
Compass Rose pointed at the statues pedestal as the three looked at some ancient writing, “Can you read this?”
Zeil looked at the text as he shook his head, “N-no… I don’t understand this writing.”
Daring Do stepped forward, “I do… it’s an ancient language that is lost to time. I’ve seen and studied it before so I can translate it.”

Clearing her throat, Daring Do approached the text as she tried to read it as best as she could, “The statue you see before you is an apparition of the great hero of Lilith. In Lilith’s final days, a great curse entrapped this city into an endless war spanning for thirty three and a half centuries. But thanks to the selflessness of this wondering changeling by the name of Zeil. Lilith was able to break free from its imprisonment and was finally laid to rest as nature intended. So… upon this ground, the proclaimers of this statue, King Matthias and Queen Anna of Lilith will hereby knight the changeling Zeil, and grant him the title of Sir Zeil of Lilith. Last Knight and hero to the Kingdom of Lilith. May this declaration stand for all time and greet him when he returns from the world beyond. So s- I think I’m saying this right… So saith the King.”
After that was translated, both Compass Rose and Zeil looked to the statue as they both replied at the same time, “Long live the king…”
After that was said, Daring Do looked back at the two with confusion as Zeil placed his hoof against his head and mumbled, “Why… did I say that.”

Compass smiled as he replied, “Once your memories return, you will understand. Now let’s make for the keep. There is a few more things I need to show you.”
With that said, Compass Rose started towards the castle as both Zeil and Daring Do followed. As the trio trotted towards the castle ruins, Compass smiled as he spoke, “For all its worth… I’m sorry Sir Zeil.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
Compass continued, “When I first met you, I had in my mind that I was a soldier and Captain of Lithian Soldiers. And in my caution… I was disrespectful and hateful to you. I just want you to know that, I’m not that type of pony. Usually, I’m a live and let live sort. I couldn’t harm a fly even if I tried. You proved that when you beat me in a fair fight.”
Zeil was surprised, “A fight? Us?”
Compass Rose chuckled, “If you would even call it that. The first time we met was on a battlefield. But you got by me and a squad of untrained civilians without even hurting anypony. I never knew anypony to be so… merciful and selfless at the same time. Especially in the middle of a battle when kill or be killed is nearly the only options.”

After hearing that, Zeil felt a little depressed as he replied, “I doubt that… if I am merciful at all… it’s because of… her.”
Compass nodded, “Ahh yes… this mystery mare of yours. I remember the queen mentioning her a few times, but… one to make a vow like yours… and strive to keep it… she must be an amazing changeling.”
Though Zeil was surprised Compass knew who he was talking about, he figured his missing memories would explain it as he replied, “No… she’s not a changeling… she is a zebra.”
Compass smiled, “Either way… She must be something to show such loyalty.” He looked ahead as they crossed under the castle gate, “Edelweiss… or, Matthias thought the same. It was his loyalty to his queen that allowed him to be so determined to save his kingdom. Seems you two were a lot alike.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Edelweiss… He… was an alicorn right?”
Compass nodded, “He was… you can learn more once I give you his message.”
Still clueless, Zeil sighed in hopelessness, “Sure… I guess.”

Shortly after arriving at the castle, Compass led the two into the large structure as they noticed that even though many of the rooms were in ruins, the main keep and most of the roofing still stood as the three entered the large corridor. Not long after Compass Rose led them into a large room with stone columns holding up an old wooden ceiling. Looking through the empty room which could easily be mistaken for a ballroom, Zeil immediately remembered where they were, “The throne room?”
Without responding Compass continued leading the two as they trotted to the side of the room and entered through a door that was hidden in the wall. As they approached the room, Zeil took one last look to the head of the throne room as he saw two old worn thrones that seemed to barely survive the passage of time. Smiling at the memories of those thrones, Zeil turned back to the side room as the three enters a slightly smaller room with a lower ceiling.

The room didn’t seem like much aside from its length with a large corridor at the opposite end, however with the desks, bookshelves, a single bed, and a few artifacts stowed in protective bins, it was obvious that at this time, this room was some sort of office or on-site lab. As they trotted through Compass Rose smiled, “So Miss Dazzle…”
“Daring Do, we are both explores, there’s no need to be formal.”
Compass Rose nodded, “Right… tell me, you’re an archeologist right? What do you make of this room? What was it meant for when it was built?”
Daring Do looked through the room as studded the room’s layout. Looking past the furniture and decor, the mare replied, “The room is large, and right next to the throne room with an entrance that doesn’t interfere with the opposing room’s ambience. That and its connection to the corridor leaves me to believe it’s the servant quarters, right?”
Compass smiled, “A plus… that’s right, though for the past fifty years or so I have been using it as my quarters slash laboratory.”
He approached a stack of papers as he started sifting through them before replying, “Every generation or so, one of us who returns from that other Lilith chooses to stay here and watch over these ground in hopes of helping those who return after us. But the main reason there is always a guardian of these grounds… is to pass on this.”

After finding what he was looking for, Compass Rose pulled out a small frame of two sheets of glass that incased an ancient sheet of paper as he handed it to Zeil and spoke, “This is for you Sir Zeil, a parting message from Edelweiss… AKA King Matthias himself.”
Curious, Zeil looked at the sheet of paper as he saw a number of lines all written in the ancient language as he looked to Daring Do and spoke, “Um… Daring… a little help please?”
Daring Do sighed in hopelessness as she replied, “Sure, just don’t think this is all I’m good for.” She took the framed sheet of paper as she cleared her throat and read:

Sir Zeil
I hope this letter finds you in good health and in good condition considering its age when you return. I’ll let you know that what we both set out to accomplish was a success. It has been three years since I’ve returned from that alternate Lilith and four since I was trapped there. Since I returned unharmed, and I’ve seen a few do the same, it’s safe to assume you will also return with no wounds, I’ll be it, a little lost and confused, but it was only a week before my memories returned in full. Sadly, Lilith and my subjects were not so lucky. My Queen, and all who stood within Lilith’s walls during the first reset, did not return. The same goes for the minotaur army who were victorious in that initial charge. I cannot say what happened to them, nor can I say that their end came peacefully, but none were ever seen again. To this day, at least in my era, it has gone down in history as an unknown event that may never be truly be explained. Either way, for those trapped after the first reset, we’ve all returned unharmed and in our own era, though it was the year following. Everypony is saved, and, I have you to thank for that. If not for you, I most likely would have submitted my escape attempts once I discovered I was wrong about Dr. Grey. If not for your discovery or your assistance in the final fight, I’m sure the reset would have happened once more, and since I knew the truth, the relic would probably do something drastic such as bring back everypony, excluding me. It’s only a theory but luckily thanks to you, it never came to that.

My queen and my subjects can rest now, and as the last king of Lilith, I only have this to say. I have already journeyed to Eden, and proclaimed in front of the entire alicorn race, that Lilith has fallen, but not before I was able to knight the hero who saved it. So, I bestow this title upon you and hope you wear it with honor. In front of all who see the statue that is being erected in the plaza, I hereby knight you as the final knight of Lilith. So journey forth, Sir Zeil of Lilith. Travel home, and be with your love back in Equestria, and know that I will take its existence and all I’ve learned of history to the grave. After all, History did fine without my knowing, so it should do better with my silence. Also, should it find itself to be of use to you in the future. I’ve taken the liberty of writing down the recipe of the spell I use on my wife. I’ve also made sure to speak of the item we talked about in code so that none can replicate it in the future. After all, perhaps some magic is better left in the hooves of only the deserving. Thank you for being my final knight, and a great friend to my subjects, my queen, and myself.
May the titans smile upon you and yours.
King Matthias, First, last, and only King of Lilith.”

As Daring lowered the framed letter, all three in the room sat in deep thought as Daring Do looked at Zeil and spoke, “So, it’s true then… you saved Lilith.”
Compass Rose nodded, “Yes, and since the day I returned, I’ve watched over these grounds. I knew it was a long shot, but I was hoping that someday I would see you again… to thank you personally for saving us.”
Zeil put his hoof on his head as he mumbled, “But… I can’t remember any of it… wait… did he just say it was three years since his return but four since he was trapped?”
Compass Rose nodded, “Yes, all who return from that alternate Lilith, return the year following their entrapment.
Zeil’s eyed widened, “No… this means… it was a full year since I arrived here?”
Compass Rose nodded, “Yes, it was this time last year that you became trapped in Lilith. Which reminds me…”
Compass trotted to a footlocker and opened it before pulling out a saddlebag and continued, “I found this outside the city about a year ago. The food and perishable items have been disposed of but I managed to save everything else.”
As Zeil looked into the saddlebag, he recognized it and everything in it as his own. To include the Tome of the Mage. After seeing his things returned to him, Compass Rose spoke, “I hope you don’t mind, I read the letter in that book of yours…the one from the mage of Zebrica. And I understand you a little more because of it. Don’t worry I won’t tell anypony about who you’re supposed to become, but if you will hold that responsibility as well as you held yourself in that other Lilith, then you have my support, and my trust.”

Knowing what Compass Rose meant, Zeil nodded, “Thank you professor, I appreciate it.”
As daring looked over the second framed sheet of paper, she tried to understand the names of the strange ingredients as she spoke, “I… hope you don’t expect me to translate this too… I don’t think I’ve ever seen these words in writing before. Not that I can’t translate them, but it will take a little research.”
Compass Rose smiled, “No need, I have a translated copy that I’ve placed within your strange spell book. Though I was a little confused when he kept mentioning something that he called, a titan pearl?”
As that was said, Zeil remembered the conversation about using a titan relic to permanently change a pegasus into an alicorn as Zeil nodded, “I think I can figure it out… even if I can’t remember everything about what this spell is or does. Either way… I have to leave. If I’ve been here a full year, then… my journey lasted one year more than it should have.”
As that was said, Daring Do reread the letter to try to understand it a little better as a sentence caught her eye, “Wait a second… this part here, Back with your love in Equestria… Does this mean you’re on your way there?”

Zeil put on his saddlebag under his cloak as he nodded, “Yes, that’s why I need to leave now.”
Daring Do smiled, “Then you’re in luck, that’s where I’m going too.”
Zeil nodded, “Hmm, small world.”
Daring Do nodded, “Yes, so… why don’t we travel together?”
Zeil shook his head as he replied, “Thanks… but no thanks. I’m in a bigger hurry now and I’ll cover more ground on my own.”
Daring Do smiled with sarcasm, “Really… considering you only have about a week’s worth of ground left leaves me to believe your wrong.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
Daring Do nodded, “To get to Equestria by hoof, we only need to travel west for a few more days till we reach the coast. From there it’s literally a boats ride away… and I’m assuming since you’ve been gone a full year, you don’t have a boat or tickets for one do you?”

Zeil thought to himself, “Well, no… but I-“
She continued, “I do… I’m going to meet a ship captain in Prance for a job. He is giving me and a VIP a ride back to Equestria and I’m willing to bet if I asked politely, he would give you a ride too for free.”
Zeil felt skeptic, “Nothing is free… I’m guessing you get something out of it?”
Daring Do nodded, “I will… all I need you to do, is tell me all about Lilith as your memories return. I want to know what exactly happened there and where better to hear it from then the horse’s mouth?”
Zeil wasn’t convinced, “And that it?”
Daring Do shook her head, “Well… no… ya see the captain I’m meeting doesn’t give free rides, so you most likely will be doing a little… bodyguard work for the VIP. Nothing a Knight like you can’t handle. All we would have to do is protect a princess for a few days.”
”A princess?”
She nodded, “Yes, a hippogriff princess to be honest. You say you’re guarding her, and your ride is paid for in full.”
Zeil asked, “And that’s it? The captain will give me a ride?”
Daring Do smiled, “Yep, the captain is like family to me. I guarantee you will have your ride so long as I’m with you.” She extended her hood, “What do you say Sir Zeil of Lilith, do you mind if I tag along with you for a bit? I always wanted to join a knight in a noble quest.”

At first Zeil wanted to say no, but as he looked at the mare’s extended hoof, he noticed the explorer jacket that the mare was wearing as he remembered the mages letter, and the warning about traveling with an explorer, met in some ruins. Remembering this warning, Zeil nodded as he replied before hoof bumping her extended hoof, “Nothing noble about my journey, but sure. I do need the help so, you have a deal.”
Daring Do smiled as she nodded, “Good, then I’ll expect you to tell me everything as you remember it. In truth, I’d hope to discover it myself to add to my writing, but I’m sure my readers won’t mind this as a small change of pace.”
Zeil was confused, “Readers?”
Compass Rose smiled, “Seems your journey here wasn’t in vain after all Daring. Since there is nothing left to show you both, you have full permission to explore the ruins as needed for your research.”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “Thanks… but no thanks. If it’s been a full year since I arrived then I need to leave now.”
Compass Rose smiled, “Then, I wish you luck in your journey.”
Zeil looked at the old stallion’s smile and he nodded, “Thanks, I can’t remember if we were good friend in the other Lilith or not, but I would say we are now.”
Zeil looked at Daring Do, “Are you ready to go?”
Daring Do nodded, “Sure, I wanted to look around a little more, but something tells me that I won’t be able to find out anything more from this place.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Then, let’s get going.”

As that was said, Daring Do and Zeil stepped out of the servant’s quarters and started trotting through the throne room towards the corridor. Before they made it to the doors, Compass Rose trotted to the two thrones as he turned towards the leaving guest as he called, “Stripes!!!”
Confused, Zeil stopped in his tracks as he and Daring Do looked towards the thrones as Compass Rose drew a hidden sword that sat behind the throne. As the Elderly stallion held the blade, he raised the sword in front of his face with the guard at eye level which was a royal salute of sorts. As he stood next to the throne in full salute, Zeil had a sudden vision of Compass wearing royal armor as the old captain called, “Sir Zeil of Lilith! Know that you carry the will, strength, and hope of Lilith on your shoulders! Carry it with honor, as you continue on your journey to unite with your true love. SO SAYITH… ALL OF LILTH!!!”
Standing where he would when he was Lilith’s captain, Compass Rose saluted Zeil as his eyes panned over the empty thrones, however as they did Zeil could see something he didn’t expect. Standing before the two thrones were vision of two. A pink mare wearing royal robes and a crown standing in front of the right throne. And standing before the left, was a familiar white stallion wearing his own royal robes and his crown as he stood smiling. As Zeil saw the familiar king and queen he mumbled under his breath, “Queen Anna… King Matthias…”
Barely hearing his words, Daring Do looked at him in confusion as Zeil called back to Compass, “Long Live Lilith!”
With that, Compass Rose and Zeil smiled at one another as the two soldiers nodded once more, before Zeil and his new companion turned around and left the ancient throne room.

Bk8/Ch1 Daring Do and the Voyage of Betrayal

Book 8 / Chapter 1
Daring Do and the Voyage of Betrayal
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 2)

Stretching from a good night’s rest, Daring Do climbed out of her sleeping bag as she looked through the cave that the two were using for shelter. When she saw that her companion wasn’t around she sighed in irritation, “Don’t tell me…”
With the humidity thick from the falling rain outside, Daring Do put on her hat and trotted to the caves entrance as she looked out into the storm. Not far in the rain, Zeil was sitting on a large stone deep in meditation as she called out to him, “Your gonna get sick if you keep this up ya know.”
Zeil continued sitting in his meditative position as he replied without even opening his eyes, “The rain’s sounds provide better peace for meditation. Besides, I haven’t been sick in almost two years.”
Daring Do gave him a dull look, “You’ve spent the last year in an ancient city… so that doesn’t count.”
Zeil smiled as he opened one eye, “And yet, my statement remains true.”

Daring Do sighed as she trotted away from the cave’s entrance and towards her saddlebag, “Wow… I’ll say this much. You’re gonna fit in no problem when we get to the ship.”
Zeil closed his eye again as he replied, “If it makes you feel any better, the rain should end in about a minute or so… then the sun should be on the way after.”
Daring Do started rolling up her sleeping bag as she replied, “What you can read weather too? You may not know it Sir Zeil but you’re not all tha-“
Before she could finish her sentence, the rain slowly lightened up as the fading noise it emitted caught her attention. Then as she turned to the cave entrance she could only stare in amazement as the fading rain slowly stopped before the clouds overhead started to part allowing a little sunlight to shine through. Confused Daring Do stepped out into the open as she looked to the sky, “What the?...”
Zeil smiled as he opened his eyes and stood up, “There… now we can continue to Fromage.”

As Zeil casually trotted back to the cave to get his things, Daring Do looked at him and spoke, “Hey… how did you do that?”
Knowing what she was asking Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “Meditation allows me to see what can’t be seen, and feel what can’t be felt. I could see the clouds moving at a quickened pace and could feel the sun trying to push through. It takes a while but with practice you can learn a little more through enlightening the mind.”
Daring Do gave him a confused look, “I’ve seen sha-colt and monks meditate for hours on end, but I thought it was just their way of calming themselves down.”
Zeil nodded as he approached his saddlebag and pulled out his cloak, “It is, but some learn to use it for other things too.”
Daring gave him a curious look, “Really? Like what?”
Zeil smiled as he pulled out a towel and dried himself off, “Some use it for centering themselves when using magic.”
Daring Do thought to herself, “Hmm, I never thought it would have any effect on magic. Then again I don’t know much about magic anyways so I never thought about it too much. So… is that all you use it for?”
Zeil hesitated before replying, “Mostly.”

As Zeil packed up his things, he could only think deeply about why he was meditating. Not counting his year of absence, it had been five months since his meeting with the mage in the Wooden Pergola Forest. And since then, Zeil hadn’t seen Rafi even once in his meditation. Usually this wouldn’t be such a bad thing, however, Zeil was still undecided about the situation with the mage, and what he was asked to do. And with this being the day he would board the ship to Equestria, he needed to decide. Should he heed the mages words and travel south to Zebrica, or should he disregard the old and possibly senile zebra and continue west to Equestria? As Zeil thought this, His movements slowed in thought as Daring Do saw this and asked, “Sir Zeil? You okay?”
Shaking himself out of it, Zeil smiled as he replied, “Yea I’m fine, just thinking.”
Daring Do smiled as she replied, “Hmm… well don’t take up too much time, Framage isn’t far, but I’d like to get to the ship before the princess arrives.”

As Zeil started to get back to packing, Daring’s smile faded as she started to ask, “Um… Sir Zeil? I want to ask… have you ever been to...”
As Zeil turned to listen to her question, Daring thought about how to ask before shaking her head and continued, “No, never mind…”
Zeil could tell she was unsure about something as he asked, “You sure? I don’t mind answering your question.”
She shook her head, “Nah its fine, It was a stupid question anyways.”
Zeil nodded, “Well if you change your mind I’m here.”
Daring turned to her saddlebag as she replied too quietly for him to hear, “I know… and… I trust you.”

As Zeil put on his cloak and saddlebag Daring Do did the same with her supplies as the two travelers made sure they had everything before departing the cave side by side. As they trotted through the surrounding forest they soon came to a clearing as they looked passed the field towards a large city that sat just beyond the clearing. As they trotted towards civilization Daring Do spoke, “I still don’t know why we chose to sleep in the cave when we could have just stayed at a hotel or something.”
Zeil replied, “Because a hotel cost money, of which, we are short on.”
Daring Do nodded, “Right… I forgot that part.”
Zeil asked, “You’re a writer right? Don’t you have plenty of royalties saved up?”
Daring nodded, “I do, but most of it stayed in Equestria. I only take what I need to travel and I didn’t expect to have a companion for the last leg of the journey.” She looked at Zeil, “Speaking of which, did you remember anything else about Lilith?”
Zeil shook his head, “I already told you everything I know. Sourdough was the relic, Edelweiss, or King Matthias killed him and he crumbled away into pieces. What else is there?”
Daring Do persisted, “What about the relic? There has to be a clue about what happened to it. Or its pieces at least.”

Zeil thought to himself as they started entering the city, “I don’t think there was anything left. It… or he dissolved completely away.”
Daring Do sighed as she replied, “Oh well, I guess its better it be gone forever then to risk it hurting anypony now.”
Zeil nodded, “I couldn’t agree more. So… this ship you have, is it in the port?”
Daring Do nodded, “Yep, if I know the captain, he should be there getting her ready to depart any minute now.”
Zeil have her a confused look, “Really? Will we make it in time?”
Daring Do smiled, “Well yea, we may be only guarding the real cargo, but I know for a fact that this particular crew won’t leave without me.”
Zeil replied, “Really? They fans of your work?”
Daring smiled, “Fans, Family, Characters in a few of my stories… This crew knows me more than my own parents.”
Zeil smiled, “Then I’ll take your word on it.”

After a few minutes of trotting through the city, the two travelers made it to a large port that was lining the side of a very wide and deep river. As the two trotted along the docks Daring pointed to the largest ship as she spoke, “There, that’s the one.”
As Zeil looked at the large frigate, he could only marvel at the ships appearance. The ship was much older than the surrounding vessels and by its appearance alone it was obvious that this ship had seen many voyages. The three mast ship stretched a good hundred and fifty feet along the dock with a forecastle that sat a few feet above the main deck and an aft castle that sat completely over a room which was most likely the captain’s cabin. But what stuck out about this particular ship wasn’t the size but the blood red sails which were tied in their up positions along each yardarm on each mast. After seeing this, Zeil and Daring approached the ship from behind as they could see in large text, the name of this ship that sat just on its stern right below the large glass windows. The Bloody Tide.

Although Zeil wanted to ask about it, he decided to stay quiet as the two trotted up the gangplank and stepped onto the busy deck as the two could see a dark cyan sailor with a grey main wearing a red vest and sword belt as he called orders to the rest of the crew, “Get all that slack out of the rigging and tighten the sails! You colts! Stop slouching and get that powder below deck before it gets damp! And you! That deck ain’t gonna swab itself! Get too it!!! This ain’t no vacation on the beach lads, so I expect you all to pull you heads from your plots and make the Tide ready!”
As the old and somewhat intimidating stallion yelled orders, Daring approached him as she called, “Ahoy there Uncle Point! Long time no see.”
As the Official stallion looked to Daring Do he smiled as he hugged her and replied, “Ah if it isn’t my favorite niece. How are ya lass, staying our of danger I hope.”

Daring Do hugged her uncle for a brief moment before replying, “Oh you know me, I stay out of it, but it tends to find me anyways.”
The stallion chuckled, “Ah that’s just the family luck on ya. Ya get used to it after too long.” He looked to Zeil as he spoke, “Oh and who is this? Did ya finally settle on a suiter? Didn’t peg ya for the exotic type.”
Zeil couldn’t help but smile as Daring Do blushed slightly while laughing to hid it, “Oh no no, this is another bodyguard I hired to help us out.” She stepped to the side as she gestured to Zeil, “Uncle Point, this is Sir Zeil of Lilith.”
Zeil held out his hoof as he smiled, “Nice to meet you captain, you can call me Zeil. I’m not used to the whole Sir title yet.”

At first, the older stallion smiled at Zeil but after hearing his words, the smile faded as he looked down to Zeil’s hoof and spoke, “I can’t accept that laddie until you refer to me properly. Ya see, if I accept a hoof shake from one referin’ to me as captain, then I’m acceptin’ the title which ‘round here… is borderline mutiny.”
Lowering his hoof, Zeil replied in embarrassment, “Oh… you’re not the captain? Sorry I assumed you were since you were giving orders to the crew.”
The stallion shook his head, “No, I’m this ships quartermaster and sea artist. The name is Pinpoint, though while aboard this ship, it’s Mr. Point or nothin’. Right now, the captain is negotiatin’ with the harbor master in his quarters.”
As Pinpoint gestured to the nearby door that was part of the forecastle wall, a loud glass shattering crash was heard on the other side of the doors as the sound caught the attention of all three. After hearing the crash Pinpoint spoke, “Sounds like the negotiations are about done.”

At that moment, the double doors flew open as a pegasus was tossed through the doors and onto the deck as the falling pony caught the attention of the entire crew. As the crew slowed their work to look at the downed pegasus, a larger stallion exited the captain’s quarters. This earthpony seemed much more intimidating then Pinpoint, as the large dim grey stallion with a white mane and stubby beard stepped out onto the main deck wearing an orange waistcoat and a black tricorn hat. This was all Zeil needed to see to know who the ship’s captain was as the large stallion approached the fallen pegasus as he spoke in rage, “You think you can play me like this? You don’t know who you’re talkin to boyo…” He paned his view to the surrounding crew as he called, “Listen up gents! Seems this slimy sorry excuse for an ‘arbor master has turned on us.”
At that moment, Zeil could feel an anger build up in the surrounding crew as the dockworker picked himself up and tried to defend himself, “It ain’t like that I onl-“
The captain stood over the pegasus as he interrupted, “Oh, so I understood ya wrong then did I? Well tell me then… When we arrived here three days ago, you offered us docking at a simple fee of four thousand bits giving we leave port no later than sunset today. But then, you have the brass to bring me this.”

With that said, the angry captain raised a wanted poster in the air high enough for all to see. Looking at the poster surprised Zeil as he saw that the pirate on that very poster was the same stallion holding it, as the captain continued, “You came to me and said that because of our past, you wanted us to pay double the previous fee, as well as a small addition for keepin’ your mouth shut… right?”
With nothing to say in his defense, the dockworker kept quiet as the sailor spoke, “Seems this poster is out of date… You didn’t hear? We were pardoned when our days of pirating ended almost thirty years ago. So what you tried to offer, is more of a threat than accord. And nopony… threatens Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail.”
All of a sudden a clicking sound was heard as everypony in the area turned their attention to one of the members of the crew, a light forest green earth pony wearing a brown tailcoat, and a bandanna over his brown mane wielding a long black powder musket and aiming it directly at the dockworker. As the stallion took aim he spoke, “Just say the word captain… and I’ll decorate the deck with every bad idea that land lubber has in his thick skull.”

Seeing this made Zeil feel uneasy, not because he found himself on a ship with merciless pirates but because despite the tenseness of the situation, none aboard the ship felt the same kind of worry that he felt as the captain raised his hoof, “Now now Mr. Keg. Remember… we ain’t that type anymore… We’ve gone the straight and narrow path, so there is no need to shed his blood… yet.”
Captain Sail looked down at the pegasus as he spoke in an angered whisper, “You… get your plot off my ship… and if I see ya again before we make way… I’ll tie you to a cannon and drop you in the deepest darkest part of the river, whilst me and my crew place bets on how long before the bubbles stop. Aye?”
Trembling in terror, the stallion didn’t reply, instead he just nodded as Captain Sail took a step back and smiled, “Good lad… Now, off ya go.”
Nervous, the pegasus dockworker slowly trotted to the side of the ship as he stepped onto the gangplank and trotted back to the dock half expecting that the captain would shoot him in the back.

However, Captain Sail only watched the harbor master leave the ship before looking over his crew as he called, “What are ya’ll gawkin’ at? Back to work!”
As that was said, Mr. Keg looked over the crew as he called, “You heard the Capt’n Back to work! I want my cannons set and secured for launch!”
Rushing to get back to their duties the crew immediately started prepping the ship for departure as Captain Sail approached Pinpoint as the quartermaster smiled, “Handled with grace as per the norm captain. He must have caught ya in a good mood.”
Captain Sail smiled, “What can I say Mr. Point, I had a good breakfast.” He looked to Daring Do, “Don’t tell me that is the wee lass who I couldn’t get down from the crow’s-nest during storms.”
Daring Do smiled as she replied, “That was a long time ago captain.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye and yet I remember like it was just yesterday.” He looked at Zeil, “Oh… and who is this? Could it be that the thrill seeking lass has finally been tamed by a stallion worth his brass?”

Daring Do laughed as she shook her head, “Come on captain, you know well that no stallion can tame me. This is Sir Zeil, he needs a ride to Equestria so we agreed that if he were to help guard the princess, then you would help get him there.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Sir Zeil egh? So you’re a knight?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes I am Captain, but you don’t have to call me Sir all the time… Just Zeil is fine.”
Captain Sail held out his hoof, “Shame to be neglecting a title, but I’ll leave you to your scars. The name’s Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail, but round here, it’s just captain or Captain Sail to you.”
Zeil shook Captain Sail’s hoof as he smiled, “Of course captain, I wouldn’t see it any other way.”
Captain Sail looked to his officer, “You already met my quartermaster Pinpoint. Best sea artist in all the seas. Over there barkin’ orders like a rabid dog is my master Gunner and Sniper, Powder Keg. There, now that ya know my officers I’ll let you in on the one true law of the sea. On a ship, the captain is judge, jury, and executioner. I intend you to follow my order if I give it, but don’t worry. I’m a fair captain. My crew work together and so long as you pull your weight, there won’t be any objections from me.”
Zeil nodded, “Understood captain, I’m not afraid of work.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good on ya lad… I think you and I are gonna get along well.”

Before Zeil could reply a young hippogriff with grey feathers approached as he spoke, “Captain, The cargo is secured and ready to depart, but I wanted to go over our food stock for the next few days.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Ah, Jimbo I’ll be there in a second.” He looked back to Zeil, “Make yourself at home Sir Zeil and welcome aboard the Bloody Tide.”
As that was said Captain Sail trotted off to see to his duties as Zeil looked to Daring Do, “He seems interesting enough.”
Daring Do smiled, “When it comes to captains, He is the best there is. Sea, sky you name it. Back when he was a pirate, they called him the Crimson Ghost Hunter”
Zeil started to reply, “Really, why did they call him th-”
At that moment, Zeil felt a strange aura appear as if from nowhere, as he quickly looked to a shadow that sat below a set of stairs leading to the upper deck. As he looked to the stairs and the darkness beneath it, Daring Do saw his expression, “Sir Zeil? You okay?”
Zeil turned towards the aura as he spoke, “I know your hiding there Bat pony… Show yourself.”

Confused Daring Do looked to the shadow as all that could be seen, were two emerald green nocturnal eyes opening amongst the shadows as a mare’s voice replied, “Not bad… you sensed me before I even made myself known. You must be one skilled zebra to see me coming… let me guess… Zebrican worrier, maybe… northern tribes?”
As the mare stepped out of the shadows, Zeil felt something off about her. The grey bat pony with a navy and silver striped mane didn’t seem dangerous, though there was a scar over her left eye and the start of three more poking out from under her jet black cloak. But as soon as what was in her hoof came into view, something came over Zeil that made him feel a since of fear that was unexpected. In the mare’s hoof was a long scythe with a maroon lightning bolt curving along the blade. She wasn’t holding it in a threatening manner, or even feeling any threatening emotions, but something about that scythe alone made Zeil feel as if he were in danger. Putting this feeling in the back of his mind, Zeil watched as the mare rushed towards Daring Do and hugged her as she spoke, “DAZZY! It’s good to see you again. I told you I wouldn’t let you get away… not that easily.”
Daring Do gave the mare an annoyed look as she replied, “Silver, how many times have I told you? Stop calling me Dazzy. And while you’re at it… should I remind you that we are just friends… again.”
Silver stopped hugging Daring Do as she smiled, “Oh don’t be that way… admit it… your happy to see me aren’t you.”

Silver shifted her eyes to Zeil as her expression changed from cheery to unamused, “Oh… and who is this? Don’t tell me you’re into the strong worrier zebra type now.”
Daring Do sighed, “Is everypony here going to assume that he and I are together in that way?”
Silver shrugged her shoulders, “It only seems natural, a tough looking male. Traveling around with a smart, funny, adventurous catch like you. If your trying to make me jealous… its working.”
Daring Do rubbed her head in irritation, “Sir Zeil, this is Silvia Mist but we call her Silver. Silver, this is Sir Zeil.”
Zeil nodded, “Nice to mee-“
“Sir Zeil? As in… a knight? Now I’ve seen everything. I didn’t think any kingdom was still knighting anycreature.”
Daring Do explained, “True Sir Zeil was knighted, but… it’s a little bit of a long story. Don’t worry though.” She pulled a notebook from her saddlebag, “I got it all right here.”
Before anything else could be said, a voice came from the dock, “WHAT DID YOU SAY YOU IDIOT!!!”

Confused by the outburst, the three approached the ships railing as they looked down at the docks to see a local guard talking with a hippogriff royal guard next to a carriage as the royal soldier continued, “THIS, is the royal carriage of Princess Skystar of the Hippogriff Kingdom! By objecting to its movement amongst the docks you are obstructing royal matters of which you cannot comprehend! I will be sure the prime minister of Prance is notified!”
The local guard Stumbled in his words, “B-but monsieur, i vas only saying zat carriages aren’t allowed on ze pier.”
The soldier replied in anger, “Yet you still object to her majesties actions? Even after knowing who you are interfering w-”

At that moment, the closed top carriage opened as a faded yellow hippogriff with a blue mane wearing a strange necklace stepped out of the carriage and looked down at the local guard as she smiled and waved, “Oh, hello nice to meet you. I’m Princess Skystar an- well of course you already know who I am… since my general said so. Um General Arnold, it’s not a good idea to scare everypony we meet. I mean, he is only doing his jo-”
“Princess with all due respect, will you please start acting like a proper ruler. How can you demand respect form your subjects without showing some authority every now and then.”
The hippogriff princess replied, “Authority? But… mother said this was a peace mission. We can’t really show peace if we go around scaring every creature.”
The general straightened his stance, “That is why I’m here. I will be sure to thwart any who feel the need to react with hostility towards your authority. A queen must demand and maintain respect from any around her… even a future queen.”

The hippogriff princess rolled her eyes as she replied, “I know… trust me, mom reminds me all the time. But for now, let’s not scare every kingdom we visit. If we are parked in a bad place then we can have the driver move the carriage. It’s not that big a deal.”
The local guard smiled slightly at the princess’s cooperation as the hippogriff general sighed in irritation, “Fine… I suppose we can forgive him just this once.” He looked at the guard, “But you better watch yourself… her majesty might not be so forgiving next time.”
Princess Skystar sighed as she looked to the driver and spoke, “Excuse me? Can you unload the chest here? Then you can return to… wherever it is you need to go. And thanks for the ride, it was fun.”
The driver nodded as he and another escort unloaded a large iron chest with multiple locks keeping it shut. As the chest was sat on the dock, a few sailors from Captain Sail’s ship stepped onto the dock to meet the princess. One was the same hippogriff that Captain Sail was speaking with earlier as the sailor bowed in respect, “Princess Skystar, May I help you with your cargo your majesty?”
Before the princess could reply, the general spoke first, “Good, seem this ship’s captain has some sense employing a hippogriff in his crew. Take that chest and stow it in the most secure place that this hunk of driftwood has. It’s worth more than your life so I would suggest you guard it as such.”

Slightly nervous the sailor looked to the chest as he replied, “Really? What’s in it?”
The general gave him a disgusted look, “That is none of your conc-“
Princess Skystar put her talon on a small trinket that was hanging around her neck as she replied, “It has the rest of this inside. This is a shard of the pearl that we use to turn from hippogriff into sea pony. Since the fight with the storm king is over, we can no-”
“PRINCESS!!!”
Princess Skystar silenced herself as the general rubbed his head in irritation as he spoke, “Please your majesty, can you at least have some sort of subtly in this matter. If you go passing on every secret that the kingdom has, it will only make this job harder.”

Princess Skystar shook her head, “Yes but since this sailor is a hippogriff, he is entitled to a peace of the relic if he wants one. Who knows, maybe he has family living in Seaquestra.”
The young sailor shook his head, “With all due respect your majesty, I hail from the Isle of Home in the leviathan sea so I see no need in having a shard of the pearl. But rest assured, I’ll guard this chest with my life.”
The general stared up the gangplank as Princess Skystar replied, “Really? Ive never been to the Liviathan Sea. I mean I know the Leviathan just started allowing passage to Home and that the pearl was once protected on Home, but I-”
“Your majesty!” The princess looked to General Arnold as the soldier gave her an annoyed look from the top of the gangplank, “Lets proceed with why we are here… no need to burden ourselves with the help.”
Jim smiled, “it’s alright your majesty, if you want I can tell you about it later.”
Princess Skystar smiled at the sailor, but before she could reply, General Arnold spoke up, “There… see, now it’s time to go your majesty.”
Nodding, Princess Skystar trotted up the gangplank as she and her general stepped onto the main deck of the Bloody Tide with the two sailors carrying the chest behind them.

As soon as the royal hippogriff was on the deck Captain Sail trotted to her as he took off his hat and spoke, “Princess Skystar I presume, my name is Captain Crimson Sail, and let me be the first to welcome you aboard the Bloody Tide.”
The captain bowed slightly as the princess smiled, “Ohhh so you’re Captain Sail. Mother has told me all about you.”
Captain Sail smiled as he put his hat back on and replied, “Did she now, good things I hope.”

At first Princess Skystar smiled and nodded yes to his statement, however her smiled slowly faded away as her nod turned to a shaking as she replied, “Actually… no. not at all no… in fact when she told me about you… she used language I’ve never heard her used before… like… ever. It made the rest of the evening really awkward actually.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Oh, good, then she remembers me well. Last time the queen and I saw each other… she and I had a… misunderstanding. Thankfully it was one sided. I never blamed Novo for putting a bounty on my head after our last rendezvous. To use the local language freely.”
With Captain Sail’s smile seeming proud, Princess Skystar gave him an unusual look as she spoke, “There is no chance that you’re my dad… right?”
As soon as that was said, Captain Sail started laughing out loud as he spoke through his laughter, “Nah lass, not at all. She and I knew each other but not that well. The royal lass was quite the excitable one, but she was already pregnant with you when we first met. Though her demeanor changed when we last spoke.”

The general spoke next, “Yes… if I remember right… you threatened her. After killing her best friend.”
Captain Sail’s expression stayed the same, but Zeil could feel his emotions change from a humble welcome, to a threatening rage as the captain replied without showing even a hint of his anger, “So you were there were ya… good. Then ya know what buttons not to press while aboard my ship. Here… my crew follow a strict set of rules. And top of that list… is that no pony holds a rank here, that is above its captain. Not even a royal.” he looked back to the princess, “With all due respect of course.”
The general started to say something but Princess Skystar put her talon in front of him as she spoke first, “Aye aye Captain. We won’t be any trouble at all… Right General Arnold?”
The general sneered at the sea captain as he replied to the princess, “As you wish your majesty.”
Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Good, then we are at an accord.” He looked to his sailors carrying the chest as he spoke, “Jimbo, secure that chest in my quarters. I will be guardin’ it personally.”

After hearing that the general stepped forward, “I would advise that it be secured in a more protected pla-”
Captain Sail glared at the general, “There is no more secured place on this ship then my own quarters. Nopony nor creature enters there without my say-so… not even you. So if ya want it safe… that is where it’s goin’. Ya don’t like it? Feel free to go ashore before we cast off.”
The annoyed general started to reply but the princess decided to intervened, “Um… maybe it would be a good idea to just listen to the captain… he does know more about his own ship then we do.”
General Arnold sighed as he replied, “If the princess agrees then my say so is irrelevant. Though if I should speak freely, why her highness would place her trust in a former pirate… I will never know.”
That said, the annoyed general turned away and trotted to another part of the ship to cool down as Princess Skystar sighed, “Don’t mind him captain, General Arnold may be a little rough around the edges, but he has been a loyal soldier for my mother since before even I was born.”
Captain Sail gave the soldier a distrusting look as he replied, “I’m sure he has… If you will excuse me, I have to prepare to cast off.”

That said, Captain Sail trotted off again as Daring Do, Silver and Zeil approached the princess with Daring speaking as she bowed slightly, “Your majesty, it’s good to see you again.”
As soon as she saw her, the princess smiled, “Daring Do, I’m happy to see you too. Thanks again for setting up this ride to Equestria.”
Daring Do nodded, “Not a problem at all your majesty. Since you mentioned it in Spring Haven I though you would need a way back across the sea once your peace tour ended.”
Zeil was surprised, “Spring Haven?”
Daring Do nodded, “Yea, she has been traveling to many cities far beyond her borders establishing peace and trade for other nations. And… don’t think I don’t know what you did for Spring Haven Sir Zeil… Queen Blossom and King Reiner mentioned you a few times when he agreed that expanded trade was a great idea.”
Princess Skystar smiled, “Oh so you’re the one who saved Spring Haven?”
Silver gave Zeil a surprised look as Daring Do spoke, “Sure is, your majesty. This is Sir Zeil of Lilith. I found him when I went to the ruined city of Lilith.”

Princess Skystar smile with glee, “Oh so you’re a knight? Wow I thought knighting was a little out of date. I don’t think my mom has ever knighted any creature.”
Daring Do continued, “It’s a long and complicated story, but don’t worry, I wrote it down so I can tell you later. Either way I decided that this was a good opportunity to invite an actual knight to help protect a princess. So… Sir Zeil, this is Princess Skystar of the hippogriff kingdom. She is the princess we will be protecting on our way back to Equestria.”
Zeil bowed slightly as he replied, “It’s nice to meet you your majesty.”
The hippogriff princess smiled, “Nice to meet you too Sir Zeil.” She looked back to Daring Do as she continued, “And who is your other friend?”
Daring smiled, “This is another body guard I’ve asked to help. This is Silvia Mist… AKA the Reaper.”

General Arnold gave her a distrusting look, “The Reaper?... As in, the Cutter’s Reaper?”
Zeil gave Silver a confused look as the batpony nodded, “I was… but the Cutter’s disbanded many years ago. Now… I’m just Silvia Mist. Or Silver to my friends.”
Princess Skystar nodded, “Silver it is then, any friend of Daring Do is a friend of mine.” She looked at Daring, “So how was your journey here? I remember you mentioned you had to go to Lilith and another place, the um… something forest right?”
Daring Do hesitated as Zeil could since a slight hint of worry in her response, “Oh… well… the other place… was a bust. Nothing there worth mentioning.”

As that was said, Daring looked at Zeil then back to the princess as Silver saw this action but before she could say anything, Pinpoint who was standing next to Captain Sail on the upper deck called over the ship, “ALL ASHORE THAT’S GOING ASHORE! The rest, PREPARE TO CAST OFF!!!”
After the quartermaster gave the order, the sailors raised the gangplank and started readying the sails to open as Captain Sail looked to the guests on the main deck as he called, “To all those who are here for passage, feel free to view the launch from here next to the helm. I promise its better then down there.”
The Princess smiled as she replied, “Oh my gosh, that sounds so cool. I’ve never been on a ship launching before. How high will we go?”
With a roll of his eyes, General Arnold followed the princess as he replied, “It’s not an actually ship launch, it’s just refers to the cast off from a port. Really your majesty, can you show at least some composure?”
As he started to follow, Zeil looked to Daring Do as he asked, “You coming?”
Daring Do shook her head, “If you’ve seen one ship launch you’ve seen them all. Go ahead I’ll be fine down here.”
Zeil nodded as he followed the princess and the general to the top deck as Daring Do and Silver stayed below and trotted to one of the railings to view from the main deck.

As soon as the rest were on the top deck Captain Sail smiled as he looked to his quarter master, “Well Mr. Point, feel free to give the order.”
Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Aye captain.” He looked over the ship, “All hooves to stations! Raise the anchor! Let loose foresails! Take her slowly gents, no need to rush.” He looked to the helms colt who was standing at the helm next to them, “Take her out slowly lad, make for the mouth of the river and out to sea.”
The helms colt nodded “Aye aye Sir.”
Pinpoint looked to the main deck, “Jim! Get to the bow and watch the river! We will need your sharp eyes to watch for shallow water.”
The young hippogriff on the deck called back, “Aye sir! I’m on it!”
As the anchor was lifted from the water, the sails in the foremast of the ship dropped open as the wind pulled the ship from the dock and away from the pier. As the sails opened the sun shined through dark crimson sails as the light reflected and passing through cascaded a reddish hue across the deck of the ship. Seeing this Zeil couldn’t help but feel a foreboding feeling from the red as the princess looked to the sails and spoke, “Oh my gosh, I’ve never seen red sails on a ship before.”
The general beside her spoke, “Must be symbolic of these pirates, in some way.”

Down on the main deck, Daring Do stood watching the docks list away from the ship’s railing as Silver approached her, “Hey Dazzy… why are you down here instead of enjoying the view from up with the rest?”
Daring Do replied, “Just enjoying the fact that somepony else can do the traveling for me.”
Silver asked, “I was meaning to ask you… about that knight guy up there… he a part of your next story? Didn’t think you would resort to pony tales. Sure it will attract all the little foals who want for stories about Princesses and knights. But usually ancient mysteries and magic relics are more your style.”
Daring Do sighed, “He had information on the ruins of Lilith. I almost had to help him for that.”
Silver asked, “Sure, so the relic in Lilith? Did he have it? Or was he a bystander of it?”
Daring looked into the river, “Just a bystander, or a hero in this case. The relic though is destroyed, so there is no need to worry about it hurting anypony from this point on. But what really concerns me… is the other place I visited.”
Silver nodded, “I noticed… you didn’t want to talk about it in front of the princess.”
Daring Do shook her head as she replied, “It’s not the princess I wanted to keep it from…” She looked at Zeil on the upper deck as she replied, “It’s him.”
Silver looked at Zeil then looked back was curious, “Sir Zeil? Why?”
Daring replied as she looked back into the river, “I went to the Pergola Village, deep in the Wooden Pergola Forest… A ghost town with a mystery spanning for over a year now. But… what I found there… Makes me wonder if I can really trust him.”

Up on the upper deck next to the helm, Zeil stood watching the city pass by on the riverbank as Captain Sail spoke to his helmscolt, “Steady as she goes lad. Chart us safely to the coast then due south to Zebrica.”
Zeil gave the captain a surprised look, “Zebrica?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, we have to drop some cargo there before crossing the sea.”
Zeil was confused, “But… I thought this ship was going to Equestria?”
Captain Sail nodded, “It is lad, but we have an important stop to make first. Don’t worry, I said I’ll see ya to Equestria and that’s what I intend to do. I’m a sailor of my word after all.”
Zeil hesitated with his reply, “Oh… o-okay.”
Seeing the unease in his expression Captain Sail asked, “Sir Zeil? Might I ask ya something?” Zeil looked at him as he continued, “You have the face of a stallion lost at sea. You have an idea of a course to set… but either you don’t have the means to make it, or… you don’t think that’s where you should be going.”

Zeil replied, “I… I have to get back to Equestria soon as possible.”
Captain Sail looked at him out the corner of his eyes, “Do ya now? And you’re sure you ain’t better suited somewhere else?”
Zeil replied, “No… Equestria in my only goal. There is n-“
“it’s a mare… isn’t it?”
Zeil was surprised, “Wh-what?”
Captain Sail continued, “I may be a humble sailor, but I’m no fool when it comes to castaways of the heart. You have your goal set on Equestria… but something says that you should go elsewhere first. Either you tend to make a new life in Equestria, but need to gather the love of your life first, or… your love is in Equestria, but you must take care of something else before meetin’ with her.”
Trying to dodge the subject, Zeil replied, “It’s not… I mean… I’m…”

Captain Sail looked forward over his ship as he spoke, “It ain’t my place to decide what you should do next… but we have a few days before we reach Zebrica, so I’d suggest you decide quickly. I will see ya to Equestria, sooner or later, but first you have to decide if that is where you’re supposed to be.”
With that said Captain Sail turned and started trotting to a barrel and pulled out some sea charts from his coat. As Zeil watched the captain trot to the side, Pinpoint who heard the whole thing was standing nearby as he spoke, “Don’t take it too personally. A good captain knows his crew. Their skills, their strength, their weaknesses… and a great captain can even read the expression on their faces before they even make them. When it comes to being a sailor, or a pirate, Captain Sail is the best.
Zeil nodded as he replied, “So I’ve heard”
Pinpoint spoke, “So… is the captain right, do you have somewhere else to be? If so then it’d be best you be there.” He looked over the ship, “Then again, I plot a course best for my captain and this crew… only you can plot your own.”

With that said, Pinpoint spoke to the helmscolt before turning away, “Stay the course and come for me once we meet the sea.”
The helmscolt nodded, “Aye sir.”
As that was said, Pinpoint turned towards Captain Sail and stepped beside him as he spoke, “A word Captain?”
Captain Sail continued looking at the sea charts as he replied, “It’d be your right, speak freely.”
Pinpoint smiled, “It’s an interesting group that we have the privilege of ferrying cross the sea. A princess with her general, a scythe wielding assassin, an adventurer and writer, and now… a knight of all things.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, if I would be so bold to say. A gatherin’ of creatures like this would seem to be a writer’s last ditch effort to keep readers interested.”
Pinpoint chuckled, “I doubt it, ya remember what my niece always said. She only writes to tell the tale. No need for fame or recognition.”
Captain Sail smiled, “No I s’pose she wouldn’t. Still, quite the company.”

Pinpoint’s smile faded as he spoke with a serious tone, “Speaking of which… did you notice the one who snuck in here weain’ a face that isn’t his?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… the snake in the mix… I saw ‘em. Traipsin’ in her like he were a king.”
Pinpoint asked, “What should we do about him?”
Captain Sail folded up the sea chart as he replied, “He’s a snake… sooner or later he’ll bear his fangs and show his true face. And when he does, we will deal with em’ as all ponies deal with snakes… we will remove his head, and watch him sink into the sea.”

Author's Note

You don't have to read them to understand, but if you want to know more about these characters feel free to read their stories.
Captain Sail's Story Under Crimson Sails
(Silver) Silvia Mist's Story Limitless Skies

Bk8/Ch2 The Reaper

Book 8 / Chapter 2
The Reaper
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 2)

As the moonlight reflected off the clear seas, Few sailors operated on the main deck of the Bloody Tide as Captain Sail and the rest of the crew were gathered in the galley as they listened to Daring Do’s story, “He looked at me and asked, Do you really think you of all ponies, can outrun this tiger? And I looked back and replied, the tiger? I only need to outrun you!”
Not able to contain it anymore, the skilled explorer started laughing at the end of her joke as everypony in the room followed suit and began laughing at the hilarious story. As they did Princess Skystar quailed her laughter long enough to speak, “It almost reminds me of that time when I was a filly. When the storm king ran us down into the sea w-“
“CAPTAIN SAIL!!!”
Pausing at the interruption, Princess Skystar and the rest of the room looked to the stairs as General Arnold entered in a fit of anger, and started approaching the sea captain who sat with a mug in his hoof as he smiled, “Well look who’s back. Come to complain more about how the waves make your aristocratic tummy hurt? Or would ya like to give your two bit about how I run my ship again?”
Ignoring the captain, General Arnold spoke, “Drinking? Laughing? And carrying on as if we were in safe waters? You’re supposed to be a disciplined captain in charge of a respectable ship! And here you are, half drunk, and conversing with the princess as if she were some port harlot? Do you have any shame?”

Captain Sail calmly stood up from his seat as he replied, “Mr. Arnold? My ship runs smoother then the summer tide. And though part of my crew are a bit tanked, I guarantee that if any threat makes itself known, they will be ready to take it down. Tonight just happens to be a special occasion. It’s been a while since we had royalty abroad and I felt it be better if we ease the sea boredom with tales of plenty and merriment. Now if her majesty objects to this, then I will be happy to hit the rack and allow my crew to do the same.” He looked at princess Skystar, “Majesty?”
Princess Skystar gave General Arnold an annoyed look as she spoke, “General, we are having fun. And every creature here is trustworthy so, why are you making it a big deal?”
General Arnold pointed at Captain Sail as he replied, “Every creature here is not trustworthy. He!!! Is a pirate Captain! One of the scourges of the sea. It’s been his ships that have pillaged and plagued our own for decades. The fact that the queen decided to trust him for the first time in three decades is beyond me.”

Zeil could feel that every member of the crew became nervous of the threat made towards the captain as Pinpoint stood and spoke, “You will mind your tone when you speak to the ca-“
Captain Sail raised his hoof to silence his quartermaster as the captain smiled, “Ya say I pledged ya for decades? First off, I’ve been nothing if not respectable to agreement between the hippogriff queen and I about stayin’ clear of her shores. So any pirate ship blightin’ her was not my own. Second, the whole premise of bein’ a pirate is to live free of law and rule. So for me to have any ship under my control in your waters is impossible since… I have no fleet to call my own. And third… technically… I am no longer a pirate. So you’re fears, are misplaced boyo…”
Hearing the obvious disrespect in the captain’s tone, General Arnold replied, “If you’re not a pirate anymore… then prove it… Tell me how to find Pirate Cove?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Pirate Cove? Lad I didn’t figure ya for a believer of fairy tales. S’pose you yourself are a bit tanked, aye?”
Seeing the escalating situation Princess Skystar stood up as she spoke, “General, maybe you should get some sleep. You’re just being paranoid so why don’t you take the rest of the night off and get some rest. Or… You could join us for a little fun.”
With an angry tone, General Arnold turned towards the stairs and trotted away as he replied, “If it’s all the same to you… I’d rather not… I’ll die before I drop my guard to a pirate.”

After the general trotted lower into the ships decks, Princess Skystar looked to Captain Sail as she spoke, “Sorry captain, I don’t know what’s gotten into General Arnold lately. He has been acting funny since we left Mount Eris.”
Captain Sail shook his head as he replied, “No need to explain majesty, It’s expected to suspect an ex pirate to be anything other than honest. But if there is anything I respect its loyalty.”
Princess Skystar gave him a curious look as Silver interrupted, “Speaking of which… wasn’t it an agreement between you and my mother that you wouldn’t fly red sails anymore?”
Captain Sail smiled, “It was, but with the passing of your mother, rest her soul… so too passes our agreement. But don’t worry lass, I still uphold the part about not attacking innocent ship and flying my old roger. But let’s talk about that later…” He looked at another sailor, “Tone Deaf, play us a tune. Make it one to raise spirits and… raise spirits too.”
With a fiddle in hoof, Tone Deaf, a unicorn in the corner of the room stood and started playing a song as everypony in the room started bobbing and swaying to the lively sea shanty as they all started forgetting the tension of the passing moment.

As the night progressed, it wasn’t long before Silver called to Captain Sail, “Hey captain! Tell the one about why they call you the Crimson Ghost Hunter!”
Zeil was sitting next to the captain as the old sailor smiled, “That old tale? Wouldn’t ya rather hear something more to date?”
Although Zeil was curious, he didn’t say anything as the princess spoke first, “Ohh, but I want to hear about that? I heard you were one of the most feared pirates in all the seas.”
Jim who was sitting next to her replied, “Not just that, the only other pirate as feared as Captain Sail happened to be the captain’s target.”
Princess Skystar was surprised, “Really?”
Pinpoint looked at Captain Sail as he spoke, “Looks like the herd has spoken captain, would you like to entertain them with the tale or should I?”

Captain Sail smiled as he held his hoof out, “Be my guest. You and Miss Do know it better then I now anyways.”
Daring smiled as she stood and spoke, “Many years ago… and I mean years as in three centuries. There was a great and terrifying pirate that pledged the seas. This pirate known as Captain Iron Hoof wasn’t only the most feared pirate in history. He was nicknamed the Ghost since anypony who was caught in his spyglass never again saw the sunrise over the horizon. Iron Hoof would sink them without mercy and without survivors. Then one day he vanished into a hurricane and was never seen again. Only ships still turned up missing. Sometimes they would even be found floating of the coast of any kingdom with no crew or bodies on board. These strange disappearances were blamed on Captain Iron Hoof well into modern day. He would hunt ships, sink them where they sat, and left none to tell the tale… that is until.”
Daring Do looked at her uncle as Pinpoint smiled as he finished, “Iron Hoof left one to tell the tale. Be it an accident, I was that one.”

Princess Skystar and Zeil were both surprised as the princess replied, “Really? You mean you fought against him?”
Pinpoint chuckled, “Not really a fight, when you face him unarmed. The ship I was on, the Annabelle had no guns to defend herself. So Captain Sail set out to flee the area as quickly as he could… to no avail. The Iron Wing closed in on us, and destroyed us without warnin’ or mercy. I was tossed overboard during the scuffle, but that was the only reason I survived. Captain Sail… and everypony on board, went down with the ship.”
Zeil was confused, “Captain Sail?”
Daring replied, “Senior, Captain Sail’s Father was the captain of the Annabelle.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… and like any good sailor he went down with the ship.”
Zeil nodded, “Ah… I see. So you set out to hunt Iron Hoof for what happened to your father. Hence, the Crimson Ghost Hunter.”

Captain Sail nodded, “You’re just as cleaver as ya look, Mr. Knight. I commandeered myself a ship and set out on a voyage to find, and kill that ghost.”
Silver chuckled, “Commandeered? You stole a royal frigate from Princess Celestia. That and to make the matter worse, you left my mother at the altar. Who at the time, was training to become the reaper.”
Zeil was confused as Princess Skystar replied, “Reaper? You mean the reaper of the Cutters?”
Zeil looked at the princess as he asked, “Reaper?”
Princess Skystar explained, “The Cutters were a secret army of assassins that worked for princess Celestia back before Princess Luna was freed from the moon. They were so dangerous, they could stop wars from starting, and any who faced them either died or denied their existence in fear that they would hunt them down if they spoke.”
Zeil nodded, “Oh… I guess tha- wait…” Zeil looked back to Captain Sail in surprise as he replied to an earlier comment, “You stole a royal frigate from Princess Celestia?”

Tapping the table twice as if he were patting the ship on the back, Captain Sail replied, “Aye I did lad… the very ship that you stand on at this moment. I took her from my father’s shipyard and set out to find Iron Hoof.”
Jim who was sitting at a different table overheard the story as he turn around and spoke, “And that very hunt took Captain Sail to my island. The Isle of Home in the Leviathan Sea.”
Daring looked at Pinpoint, “And that’s where you met Aunt Aqua right?”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye it is.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Our search took us too many places and many good stories… but… there were bad also.”
Captain Sail’s mood fell into depression as the table seemed to do the same as Daring replied, “That’s right… that was when you met Siren wasn’t it.”
Captain Sail nodded as he said only one word before taking a swig of his mug, “Aye…”

With the mood seemingly killed by bad memories, Daring Do decided to change it as she stood up approached Tone Deaf and whispered a request into his ear. As he heard her request the musician smiled, “Ah, a beautiful one. Right away lassie.”
With that Tone Deaf started playing a slower tune then what started the night as Daring Do stood in the open and readied herself to sing. As the melancholy tone played, the rowdy herd of pirates all but silenced themselves in respect for the song as Daring Do started to sing, “When I was just a lass, so young and complete, I fell for a lad, so stunning and sweet, He spoke of a treasure, far out passed the shore, Then left late one mornin’, for treasure’s galore… All-o-wait for all-o-ways, for a sailor at sea. For he seeks out his dream, then will come home to me. Oh the days they will change, and time she will pass. So I’ll-o-wait for All-o-ways till he comes home at last. All-o-wait for all-o-ways till he comes home at last.”

As the song played, Zeil could feel the mood of the room as everypony in the room was filled with a peace that could only be found in the beautiful lyrics of the song. However, there was one other feeling in the room that was felt by only one of the sailors. This feeling was deep and agonizing pain. As Zeil looked to Captain Sail, who held his smiling expression that hid this pain. As Zeil felt curious of the captain’s hidden pain, Daring continued onto the second verse as she sang, “A decade has passed, and my loyalty stay, for here I have waited, while my lover’s away. But my faith still is strong as I burden this weight. So here onto you, I will say I’ll-o-wait… Oh All-o-wait for all-o-ways, for a sailor’s at sea. Till he seeks out his dream, and then comes home to me. Oh the days they will change, and time she will pass. So I’ll-o-wait for All-o-ways till he comes home at last All-o-wait for all-o-ways till he comes home at last.”

As the second verse ended, the melody of the song seemed to slow, as Daring continued with a tone to match the slowing melody, “Oh it’s four decades passed… as I lay weak and frail. Looking out the old window, hoping to see his sail. But my eyes they grow heavy, as I try not to cry, for he won’t be beside me… for my final goodbye… All-o-wait for all-o-ways, is my sailor at sea? Has he sought out his fortune, will he come home to me? They laid me to rest, in a grave on the shore. So I’ll-o-wait for All-o-ways, forever and more. All-o-wait for all-o-ways, forever and more.”
As the melody slowly came to an end, the room started to applaud the beautiful song as Daring smiled peacefully while Captain Sail spoke from his seat, “Well done lass… very well done. She… she would be pleased.”

Daring Do smiled as she looked at Captain Sail and replied, “I doubt I could ever sing like her captain… even if I never met her, I’m sure I could never hold a candle to the Siren of the Cove.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Whether ya can or ya can’t, the sentiment is appreciated all the same. Thank you lass” He stood, “S’pose I’ve had a bit too much excitement for one night. I’ll leave ya to your merriment gents, but remember, I expect all hooves on deck in the mornin’… aye?”
The crew nodded in agreement as Captain Sail turned to the stairs leading to the upper decks. As he left Zeil could feel a deep emotion of pain and misery in the expressionless captain as Zeil watched the captain leave. Seeing Zeil watching the captain, Pinpoint Saw this as he looked into his drink and spoke, “I hope you will excuse the Captain. Siren was, special to him. In fact she was the only mare that I can honestly say, held a place in the captain’s heart.”

From the amount of pain Zeil could feel in Captain Sail, he could have easily guessed what had happened, but he asked anyway, “Was?...”
Daring Do sat back at the table as she replied, “Siren… she… passed away. In the fight against Iron Hoof, and when that happened… Captain Sail was never quite the same after that.”
Princess Skystar looked down in sadness as she replied, “I remember mother telling me this story… it was the reason she hated Captain Sail so much. She said, she can overlook every crime he committed, but… she will never overlook what happened to Siren.”
Jim smiled, “You know, if I remember right, Queen Novo was changed by Siren’s death too.”
Princess Skystar was curious, “Really? How so?”
Jim continued, “Well I was only a colt when it happened. But before Siren died, Queen Novo was smiley and bubbly, a lot like you actually. She seemed so carefree and playful.”
The princess was surprised, “What? You mean miss Serious-brooding-queen was like me?”
Jim smiled but before he could reply, Daring Do stood up, “Well, I’ll leave you to that story. I’m gonna hit the hey. I’ll see you in the morning.”
The group nodded as Zeil spoke, “Alright, well g’night Daring.”
Daring Do smiled as she turned away, “Good night.”

When she was gone, Jim went on to tell about how Queen Novo used to be, as Silver stepped away from the table and caught up with daring, “Hey Dazzy. Wait up? Do you want somepony to lay with? I’ll always be happy to lay with you Dazzy.”
Daring Do gave her an annoyed look, “Thanks but no thanks, I’ll be fine laying by myself.”
Silver gave her an accusatory look, “Really… and what about Sir Zeil…”
Daring Do replied, “What about him?”
Silver smiled sinisterly, “You two have been traveling for over a week now… have you two… laid with each other?”

Daring Do blushed slightly as she shook her head, “I told you, it’s not like that. We are just friends, that’s it.”
Silver replied, “And as just friends… did you ever ask him yourself?”
“About what?”
Silver replied, “About the wooden pergola forest… about what you found there and about the rumors of the last creatures there… did you ever actually talk to him about it yourself?”
Daring Do shook her head as she replied, “No… because I trust him. Sure he is hiding something… but… whatever it is, he doesn’t want to harm anypony, and… that’s good enough for me.”
Silver replied, “And why do you trust him so much? A zebra you just met?”
Daring shook her head as she trotted towards the stairs, “He is a knight and a hero to more than one kingdom. How can I not, now if you will excuse me… I’m tired and want to get some sleep.”
As Daring Do trotted away Silver replied, “So it’s the hero types you go for?”
Daring replied with a dismissive tone “Good night Silver I’ll see you in the morning.”
As Daring Do trotted down the stairs into the lower decks Silver mumbled to herself, “Fine… then if you won’t ask him about it… I will.”

As Silver trotted back to the table, Pinpoint was gone and the princess was laughing at Jim’s words as she spoke, “I can’t believe she would say that? Mother was always so serious about everything. To think she was care free enough to joke around like that.”
Jim smiled, “I know, to be honest… She was so peaceful and caring. It was always good when she visited home…she kinda lit up the island with her very presence… a lot like… you princess. A smile that just… makes you forget everything bad around you.”
As the two hippogriff’s looked at each other and smiled, Zeil could see what was happening as he looked into his drink and tried to ignore the building feelings. However, Silver managed to break the moment as she trotted up and spoke, “Sorry I needed to tell Daring something… what did I miss? Wait where did Pinpoint go?”
With the interruption, both Jim and Princess Skystar snapped out of their trance as they both blushed and looked away from each other as Zeil smiled and replied, “Oh, he went to talk with the captain. Says he wanted to give a nightly report before the captain bedded down.”

Nodding Silver replied, “Ah I got ya… anyways… I was wondering Sir Zeil, could I speak with you for a minute… you know… in private?”
With her emotions hard to read Zeil asked, “Really? I guess that’s fine.”
Silver smiled, “Well, then… lets head up on deck. We can talk outside.”
She looked at the two hippogriffs as she spoke, “If you will excuse us your majesty.”
Princess Skystar was still blushing at the earlier interruption as she replied, “N-no… its fine…”
As the two started to leave the table, Silver picked up her scythe and followed Zeil as the cloaked mare smiled, “Looks like Jimbo and the princess are getting a little close aren’t they?”
Zeil nodded, “Yea, birds of a feather I guess.”
Silver replied, “Seems love has had its hoof in a lot of things lately.”
Zeil replied, “You don’t know the half of it.”

After reaching the main deck, Zeil and Silver trotted to the ships starboard railing as Silver looked into the sea. As Zeil leaned against the railing next to her and did the same, Silver spoke, “Dazzy told me about what you did for both Spring Haven and Lilith. I’m impressed, saving one kingdom is something in itself, but saving two and being recognized by both their royals… you must really be something.”
Zeil smiled slightly as he replied, “Well, I just happen to be there at the time. It’s not like I planned it.”
Silver smiled, “Humble too… you really are something aren’t you. Dazzy tells me you’re on your way to Equestria? Do you live there?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… but… there is somepony there I care about that I need to see.”
Silver nodded, “Ah… so love is toying with your life too. Well if there is one thing Equestria has, its beautiful mares.”
Zeil smiled, “So what about you? Do you live there or are you just passing through?”
Silver looked into the sea as she replied, “Actually, I’m on my way there to see… I guess you’d call him my mechanic.”
Zeil was confused, “Mechanic?”

Silver chuckled, “It’s a long story… but… I myself actually came from Canterlot. But… it’s been a while since I’ve been home. I had to get a break after one of the… I wanna say six times the city was attacked in the past few years.”
Hearing that made Zeil chuckle as he replied, “Now that you mention it, Canterlot does get attacked often doesn’t it? I guess others think that a kingdom of ponies being kind and tolerant of each other would be an easy target.”
Silver smiled, “Yea I guess so… the last attack I saw before I left was a strange one too… seems there was a special event going on in Canterlot… I think… it was a wedding.”
Though it was in the back of his mind, he assumed it was something else as he replied, “A wedding?”
Silver nodded, “Yea… some princess was marrying a royal guard captain and… Queen Chrysalis and her swarm of changeling decided to take the opportunity to attack the city.”

After hearing that Zeil started to feel nervous as he replied, “Really?”
Silver nodded, “Yea… it was a big thing since Twilight Sparkle and her friend couldn’t use the element of harmony to defeat her. Then… when we though all hope was lost, Shinning Armor, and Princess Cadence used their own love to defeat queen chrysalis, toss all the changelings out of Canterlot and far beyond the borders of Equestria. Though something strange seemed to happen after that…”
Silver stopped leaning against the rail as her tone changed, “One of the many changelings that attacked Canterlot… wasn’t thrown as far as the rest. In fact, he tumbled his way into the Everfree forest… and quite literally crashed into the life of the Enchantress that lived there. Then, doing what changelings do… he fooled the poor mare… pretended to be in love with her, all so that she would tend to his wounds, and, get this… he wanted her to teach him magic too.”
Silver chuckled as if it was all a joke to her, as a deep feeling of dread fell upon Zeil as he held his silence while she finished her laugh and continued, “But… like the rest… Shining Armor and Twilight sparkle tracked the fool down, and banished him far from Equestria so that he would no longer be a threat to anypony. But ya know… I’ve sorta wondered… What would have become of that poor mare, should that changeling had stayed? And what fate would have befallen the kingdom if his skill of magic would become too strong? Or better yet…” Silver shifted her eyes to Zeil as the slits in her nocturnal irises narrowed to resemble the cross section of a sword, “What will that changeling do… should he succeed, in returning to Equestria?…”

All of a sudden, the feeling of dread was filled with fear, as Zeil looked to the mare, who was staring daggers at him with an expression that confirmed her theory, and an aura of hostility. Slowly Zeil turned completely to her as he took a step back and glared as he spoke, “Who… who are you?...”
Silver replied as she readied her scythe for a fight, “That story that the princess told you about the cutters is true. An army of assassins who fought in the shadow of the crown and killed any who were threats to Equestria. My mother was the leader of that group also known as, the reaper. And when she died, I took that name and carried on her legacy and though we disbanded after twilight defeated Nightmare Moon, we still kept a close eye on things of interest… such as, Queen Chrysalis’s most loyal drone.”
As Zeil backed away from the threatening mare he soon found himself against one of the ships cannons as his hind hoof tapped against a rammer bar that was sitting against the large weapon. Picking up the bare and holding it at the ready, Zeil replied, “And what do you want with me?”

When Silver saw Zeil using the cannon’s rammer bar to defend himself, she could only chuckle as she replied, “I only want to know one thing… What do you intend to do when you return to Equestria?”
Zeil replied, “I’m going to meet with Zecora… and tell her the truth.”
Silvia’s expression became angry as she replied, “Don’t lie to me… you can drop this whole, I’m a changeling in love crap. I know you have better intentions then that. So tell me the truth, what are you going to do.”
Zeil’s expression became angry as he replied, “If you won’t believe the truth… then what make you so sure you will believe a lie. Your just like Shining Armor… you don’t care what I’ll tell you, because in your eyes… I’m just a changeling!... your enemy. And that’s all I’ll ever be to you.”
With that Zeil swung the rammer bar as Silver easily took one swing of her scythe as she sliced through the wooden tool at a diagonal angle cutting off the blunt rammer and leaving the end of the wooden tool with a sharpened tip. After cutting the head of the tool away, Zeil took the time to back away from the cannon and further onto the center of the main deck as Silver became angry at Zeil’s attempt to harm her, “So that it then isn’t it… you’re going back to get your revenge on Equestria aren’t you?”
With that Silver charged at Zeil as she swung her scythe towards his head leaving the quick changeling to duck under the attack.

When that attack failed Silver spoke again, “And the Wooden pergola Forest… was that a test of what you intend to do to Equestria?”
As Zeil backed away his eyes widened, “Wh-what?”
Silver smiled, “Your expression says it all… so you were there… and you know what happened… Don’t you!!!”
With that Silver swung her scythe again only this time when Zeil dodged the attack he charged passed her guard with his makeshift spear as he lunged it towards the mare hitting her in the chest. At first Silver thought he had imbedded the sharpened end of the staff into her chest, but after taking a few steps back she realized that he used the blunt end of the staff as she looked to Zeil and continued, “Tell me… what happened there? What did you do to that village?”
Zeil held his weapon at the ready as he replied in anger, “Like I said… you wouldn’t believe the truth even if I said it… unless I’m the bad guy at the end of my explanation… you won’t believe me. That’s just how it is being a changeling.”

Silvia sighed as she replied, “Fine… if it’s come to this… then I have no choice. I honestly didn’t want to hurt you since Dazzy is in-… Likes you so much… But looks like I’m going to have to kill you.”
Though Zeil knew he didn’t have a chance against her, he still readied himself for the attack as he replied, “Then do what you got to do… just remember that I intend to get back to Zecora, and I won’t let you stand in my way.”
With that the two lunged forward to attack the other but as they did, a gunshot rang out as a large caliber bullet flew between the two and imbedded itself into the deck a few feet between them as the two fighters reacted to the shot by stopping what they were doing and looking to the top deck of the ship. Up on the higher deck, Captain Sail, Pinpoint, and Powder Keg stood glaring at the two fighters in anger as the gunner pointed his musket at the two with smoke still pouring out of the barrel from its recent shot. As Powder Keg lowered the musket Jim, Daring Do, Princess Skystar and a few other members of the crew rushed onto the deck in response to the gunshot.

As soon as the group reached the main deck, their eyes first locked onto the captain of the ship, then panned down at who the captain was looking at as Zeil and Silver soon found themselves as the center of attention for the entire ship. With all eyes on the two fighting, Captain Sail looked to Pinpoint as he spoke loudly enough for the crew to hear, “Mr. Point! As my Quartermaster, you of all ponies aboard this ship know the rules that I set down to all members of my crew… so… if you would, inform Sir Zeil and Miss Mist of my rule on brawlin’.”
Pinpoint looked to the two as he replied, “All sailors caught brawlin’, whether they be cargo, crew, or passengers. Will be keelhauled for the offence, then hung out to dry in the hot sun for the remainder of the voyage.”
After hearing that, Daring Do looked at the two as she mumbled in shock, “Zeil… Silver?”
The two didn’t respond as Captain Sail spoke up, “Luckily since I don’t recall a point at which this particular rule was explained to either of ya… I’ll overlook it just this once. However… if one of you so much as curses in the direction of the other… I’ll do more than just keelhaul you both… I’ll toss you overboard. Am I clear Sir Zeil?” Zeil nodded as the captain’s eyes shifted to Silver, “And you Miss Mist?”
Silver nodded as she replied, “Yes captain… clear as crystal.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Good… now if you will excuse me… I’ve had enough fun for one night. I’m hitting the rack and I would advise the rest of you to do the same.”

As that was said, Captain Sail started down the steps onto the main deck to go to his quarters as Pinpoint spoke up, “You heard the captain gents! Time to get some sleep. Those on night duty get to your stations, the rest of ya get to your quarters! Move it, we have an early day tomorrow and we expect all hooves on deck in the mornin’.”
As the crew started to go below, Daring ducked out of the way and hid behind one of the masts as she listened in on Silver and Zeil as Silver lowered her weapon and Zeil put away the broken tool in his hooves. After most of the crew was gone, Silver spoke, “Alright Sir Zeil… I guess, I’ll accept your reason to return to Equestria… but first I have to know. Daring went to the Wooden Pergola Forest and found evidence that you had something to do with the mystery there. So tell me the truth… what happened to that village?”
Zeil replied, “First… tell me what you know… I’d rather fill in the blanks then to explain the whole thing.”

Trying to avoid any further confrontation, Silver replied, Daring says she went to the Wooden Pergola Forest to investigate a new mystery that is about a year old. In less than one night, all one thousand residents of the Pergola Village just seemed to disappear overnight. There were obvious signs of vicious animal attacks to include damaged furniture doors and blood stains. But there were no bodies, bones or any sign of the residents anywhere. All that was found was the remains of an earth pony that had been tied to a stone pedestal in the town’s chapel by black vines. But what was strange was that it appeared that the earth pony had starved to death, but there were no signs of struggled in his final moments. A natural reaction to any starving creature, pony or otherwise would be to struggle to find food but he showed no such attempts… it’s as if he just sat and waited to die. And when she searched the royal guard post, she found a criminal file on a desk that had your name on it, pinning you as a suspect for a murder that happened earlier a few days prior not to mention a destroyed jail cell which according to the file, was the cell you were placed in.”
Zeil nodded, “And that’s all you know?”
Silver nodded, “Yes… so the question remains… what part did you play in that?”

Zeil took a bracing breath as he sat down and replied, “I don’t know the whole story, but… from my understanding that earthpony in the chapel was the one responsible for the whole thing. I don’t know what he did, but somehow he killed every griffin in that village and even tried to kill me in the process.”
Silver nodded, “But how? What did he do to cause all of this, and what happened to their bodies?”
Zeil shook his head, “Honestly, I don’t know… all I know is that I was saved by a stranger in black. He broke me out of that cell and said he would kill that pony.”
Silver replied, “So… he killed him?”
Hiding the truth, Zeil shook his head, “I don’t know… after I was free, I wasn’t going to take any chances… I left that city and fled. Even I know when I can’t win, and that fight… I couldn’t risk losing my chance to speak with Zecora. So… I didn’t take it. I left that village and didn’t look back.”
Silver replied with a skeptic look, “So… you… a changeling who helped two kingdoms from disasters, decided to just leave without so much as an attempt to help?”
Zeil nodded, “Whoever that zebra was… he was much stronger then I was. So if he was trying to stop that evil earth pony, I felt it better to just stay out of his way.”
Silver tried to get more information, “So… he was a zebra. Did he have a name?”
Zeil shook his head, “He told me to call him the mage. And that I didn’t need to know any more about him. Said it was taboo or something. With the creepy beasts roaming around trying to kill everyone, I decided to just let it be and get out of there.”

Silver thought to herself for a few minutes as she replied, “Well… I know your still hiding something from me… but… I guess I can trust you.”
Zeil was surprised, “Really?”
Silver shrugged her shoulders, “I was thinking about what you said earlier. About how being a changeling meant that your my enemy and no matter what you say I won’t believe you… well… your partially right. When we hold a grudge against one or more of a particular race we tend to view the entire race as untrustworthy… and that’s wrong. The actions of the many shouldn’t be pre-determined by the actions of a few. So… I’ll accept your answer, even if I know your still hiding something.”
Zeil sighed in relief, “Thanks Silver, it make me feel better that y-”
“Don’t get any idea’s… I still don’t trust you or your excuse… but I don’t want to get further in hot water with Dazzy so… for now, I’ll accept what your telling me. And… I guess since I don’t have any real reason to… I won’t try to kill you anymore.”

Not sure how to respond to that Zeil replied, “Um… thanks?”
Silver chuckled, “Look, Dazzy likes you a lot, and… just… don’t break her trust. She is a good friend and I…”
Zeil smiled, “You’re in love with her. I know…”
Silver replied with a skeptic tone, “You got a problem with that?...”
Zeil shook his head, “Not at all, I’ve come across a few who were attracted to the same gender so I don’t mind it one bit.”
Silver sighed, “That’s not what I’m… ya know what… never mind this trip is getting too mushy for me anyways.”
Zeil nodded and yawned as he turned away, “It’s getting late… if we are getting up early, I better get some rest.”
Smiling, Silver turned to the sea as she replied, “You go ahead… I’m a bat pony. The night is where I shine.”
Zeil nodded, as he turned away, “Suit yourself… good night Silver… and… thanks again.”

Smiling at their unspoken agreement, Silver nodded back as Zeil went below deck and into the ship. After he was gone, Daring Do stepped out from behind the mast as Silver spoke, “You satisfied with his answer? He told me all that happened, and it sounds like he isn’t the mastermind behind the Pergola Village mystery.”
Daring Do nodded as she replied, “I didn’t think he was… when he told me his story about Lilith, all I saw was a stallion who is so determined to do the right thing that he is willing to risk his own life to do it.”
Silver looked at Daring, “You think he is trying to reconcile for his past?”
Daring shrugged her shoulders, “I’m not sure… maybe… wait… what do you mean by that? What past?”
Silver smiled, “Don’t worry about it… but… you know what’s driving him don’t you?”
Daring looked at the sea as she approached the railing, “Yea… I do.”
Silver continued, “He is driven to get back to Zecora.”

Daring didn’t reply, instead she only gave a disappointed nod as Silver continued, “I’m sorry to say it, but… he is already in love with another mare. And it’s serious since he even attempted to fight me to get to her.”
Daring Do nodded again as she replied, “Not that it any of my business since I told you already that we are just friend.”
Silver smiled, “Hide it all you want Dazzy, I know you, and I know you like him… but… just humor me with this question. If you were in love with him, like you are… what will you do knowing that he is in love with another mare... hypothetically speaking?”
Daring Do sighed, “Hypothetically speaking… I’d back off, if he is in love then who am I to interfere with it?” She smiled, “I will admit it though… if I were to fall in love… it would be with a guy who sticks to his morals.”
Daring nodded as she rubbed her chest, “Yea… when given the chance to kill me with that staff, he dodged it entirely and used the blunt end instead of the sharp tip so I guess he isn’t all bad.”
Daring Do chuckled to hide her pain, “See? Now isn’t that a stallion worth pining over? Wait… what exactly did I miss just now?”
Silver smiled, “Oh nothing, just a simple argument over nothing.”

In Captain Sail’s Quarters Pinpoint smiled at Captain Sail as he spoke, “Quite the night egh captain… kinda reminds me of that voyage across the albatross sea.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Which one, the one where the forecastle caught fire or the one where Mr. Keg blew up that experimental cannon of his?”
Pinpoint asked, “Wasn’t that the same voyage?”
“Not likely, I keelhauled three sailors that first time.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Ah that’s right. Either way it was an interesting voyage.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… but we shall see how this one fairs in the mornin’. I trust your skills haven’t fallen enough not to see it?”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye I did… the clouds rushin’ and the humidity risin’. There’s a storm on the horizon… a big one at that.”

Captain Sail nodded as he looked out the back window of his quarters, “Aye, by daybreak it will be on us and the seas won’t take kindly to it. When that happens I want the princess and her party to stay below deck for their safety. Miss Do will be fine, but I can’t trust that the rest of her group have their sea legs just yet.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain… and what about the snake on board? He may use this distraction to bear his fangs.”
Captain Sail nodded, “After the commotion he made tonight, it would be wise that he stay low, but I think your right.” He looked at the princess’s locked chest as he spoke, “Whatever his game… I’m curtain he will be after this blasted thing. So to keep in good graces with her highness, we must ensure its safety."
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye captain, it will be safe.”

Looking deeply at the chest Captain Sail mumbled, “I never thought to see this cursed thing on my ship again. But, if it will finally settle our relationship problem with Queen Novo, then I’ll do what I must for the crew.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… seems fitting. After all, Siren was the guardian of this relic back in the day. To be protecting it yourself, seems rightly poetic.”
Captain Sail nodded, “S’pose it is.”
Pinpoint spoke, “Seems Queen Novo is ready to put what you did behind her and forgive you… are you ready to do the same?”
Captain Sail hesitated for a moment before replying in a dismissive tone, “Get your rest Mr Point. I want you awake and on deck when the rain starts.”
Annoyed that Captain Sail dodged the question, Pinpoint could only sigh as he replied, “Aye Captain, see ya in the mornin’.”
With that said Pinpoint turned and left the quarters as Captain Sail placed his hoof on top of the chest and mumbled to himself, “Not yet lass… you can’t claim me until you pay what’s owed. A song… as promised.”

Bk8/Ch3 The Crimson Ghost Hunter.

Book 8 / Chapter 3
The Crimson Ghost Hunter
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 3)

The sounds of creaking wood and battering rain was heard below deck as the ship rocked with high and long strides as Princess Skystar sat in the corner of the galley moaning in sickness, “Oh… why won’t it stop?”
General Arnold held his composer as he replied, “Calm yourself your highness, you need to hold yourself high, less risk looking weak and frail to these pirates.”
Though he spoke as if he were unaffected by the ships rocking, it was easy to see by the expression on his face that he too was feeling sick. Ignoring the complaints, Zeil and Silver also sat in the galley as they both did their best to avoid talking in hopes that the previous night’s conflict wouldn’t be repeated. As the room sat in silence, the door to the deck above opened as rain and water started pouring down from the gun deck above as Jim, and Pinpoint trotted down as the quartermaster spoke, “The storm above is getting’ worse! We need more hooves on deck! Sir Zeil, Miss Mist and Arnold we-”
Arnold corrected, “General.”
Pinpoint replied in anger, “Whatever… you three are needed on deck! Princess you stay here, your safety is what’s important.”

General Arnold argued as he stood up, “Absolutely not! I will tolerate you and your crew’s vulgar attitude, blatant disrespect, and… questionable hygiene… but there is no way I’m allowing the princess to remain here alone in this time of crisis.”
Seeing the conflict, Pinpoint hesitated for a moment in thought till Jim spoke up, “I’ll stay with her sir. I’ll protect her.”
Pinpoint thought about the situation, thought he knew Jim would be better on deck, he also understood the unspoken trust that he and the princess shared as General Arnold started to argue, “Now wait just a minute, I’m not about to leave her with a pi-”
Pinpoint interrupted, “Done… Arnold get your plot on deck and help secure the sails.” He looked at Zeil and Silver, “We need you two also, be sure to secure your lifeline while on deck and help where it’s needed. Mr. Keg can direct you but tread lightly, this storm is a killer.”
As Pinpoint started up the stairs, Jim trotted towards the princess as General Arnold continued trying to argue, “Did you not hear me? I said I w-”
For the first time, Zeil felt intimidated by Pinpoint’s aura as the quartermaster paused and spoke with an infuriated tone, “I said… get on deck. I may be the most reasonable sailor on this ship… but that doesn’t mean I won’t dispose of unneeded cargo… whether it be boxes… or you. Now get on deck Mr. Arnold that is an order.”
With nothing more to say, Pinpoint continued up the stairs as Zeil, Silver and General Arnold trotted up the stairs as they reached the main deck of The Bloody Tide.

As soon as they were on deck Daring Do was waiting next to the mast as she handed each a rope as she spoke, “Tie on your lifeline, and make sure its tight, this will save you if you fall overboard.”
As Zeil looked across the deck, he was surprised by what he saw. On deck the sailors were quickly rushing to each station to fight the rains and wind as the storm poured down with so much force, that everything outside the railing of the ship was almost impossible to make out amongst the rain and darkness. As the sailors rushed to quail the chaos on the deck, Captain Sail stood at the helm on the upper deck as he yelled his orders to all he could see, “Mr. Keg! Get those cannons secured! You lot, pull in the main sails but leave the aft sail! Miss Do! I need ya in the crow’s nest lass! Look out for reefs and the coast! Call if ya see anything!”
Daring who has just ensured her lifeline was secured to the mast nodded as she turned twords the nearest Jacobs ladder, “Aye Captain!”
As Daring started climbing the Jacobs ladder, Captain Sail continued, “Mr. Zeil, Miss Mist, Get on the sail!”
Silver nodded as she put up the hood on her cloak, “Aye Captain!”
Before following his orders, Zeil noticed that Captain Sail had no lifeline as he called, “Captain! Shouldn’t you secure your line?”
Captain Sail laughed out loud, “Don’t worry ‘bout me lad! The sea wouldn’t dare claim me just yet… she ain’t that merciful.” he looked at General Arnold, “Arnold, see to the cargo on deck! Work smartly lad we need that cargo secured less it break loose and hurt the crew.”

Although he wanted to tell the captain to refer to him as General, General Arnold decided to ignore it as he and Zeil separated to follow their orders. As Zeil trotted towards the nearest group of working sailors, a massive wave came crashing into the side of the ship leaving gallons of water to rush over the deck as the crest of that same wave hit Zeil and knocked him off his hooves. As he was being washed across the deck, Zeil eventually colligated with the portside rails as he fell to the deck stunned from the impact. As he tried to stand, Powder Keg rushed to his side as he helped Zeil onto his hooves and spoke, “Up ya go lad… anythin’ broken? No? Good then get to the sails. We need them closed before the mast gets sheared off!”
Zeil nodded, “Yes sir, I’m on it.”
Quickly getting to work, Zeil rushed to a group of sailors pulling a rope as he helped to close the sail.

Up in the crow’s nest Daring Do did her best to hold herself steady as she looked out for the next incoming wave. As she did it was only seconds before she saw a towering wave approach from the starboard bow of the ship. As The Bloody Tide started dipping down into the wave’s saddle, Daring Do called, “Captain!!! We have a big swell off the starboard bow!”
As he heard the warning Captain Sail looked towards the approaching wave just as the bow of the ship started tipping upward as he called, “Brace for a climb! Make ready to close the aft sail!”
As he called this order, Captain Sails steered the ship towards the center of the approaching wave as Zeil and Silver got to the rigging near the aft sails and readied themselves to pull it in.

As The Bloody Tide started climbing the massive wave, everypony on the ship to include Daring in the crow’s nest grabbed onto the railings as the stem of the large vessel soon found itself pointing to the sky. As the ship climbed the wave, Captain Sail called, “She’s a big’n lads, brace yourselves!”
Slowly with only three aft sails helping their movements, the large ship rose over the crest of the massive wave then went from pointing to the sky, to leveling out at the wave’s peak. As the ship seemed to slowly roll over the crest, Captain Sail called, “NOW, PULL IN THE SAIL!!!”
Reacting to the order, Zeil, Silver and a number of other sailors pulled the rope in their hooves as the aft sails were closed just in time for The Bloody Tide to begin its downward motion before plummeting down the back of the massive wave in what seemed to be almost a full freefall. As the ship fell down the wave the entire crew braced themselves for the fall as The Bloody Tide quickly fell before hitting the saddle with a large splash that forcibly jerked the ship to a level plain. As the ship was quickly leveled out, the crow’s nest at the peak of the ship’s mast was jerked the hardest as the shock tossed Daring against railing hitting her wing and injuring it as she grunted in pain. Hearing the grunt from below, Silver looked to the nest as she called, “Dazzy? You oka-“
before she could finish another large wave colligated with the side of the ship as Daring who was busy holding her wing, was tossed over the railing of the crow’s nest as she quickly reached out just in time to grab one of the yardarms.

As Daring Do held onto the yardarm, she could only cringe in pain as Silver saw this and called, “Dazzy!!!” she looked to Zeil, “You’re a changeling aren’t you? Fly up there and help her!”
Zeil looked up at Daring who was starting to lose her grip as he looked back and replied, “I can’t, my wings are severed. I can’t fly.”
Silver sighed in hopelessness as she looked up the Daring Do and replied, “Never stopped me.”
Right after that was said, Silver reached up and unlaced the tie on her cloak that kept it on her body as the whipping winds pulled her unsecured cloak away revealing her scarred body underneath. As Zeil saw the bat pony’s body for the first time, he could only stare in shock. The three claw shaped scars that could be seen before she removed the cloak, now appeared to run along the entirety of the bat pony’s torso but what really surprised him was when they reached her wing, it revealed that whatever it was that gave her those scares also severed her wing, but what remained was a prosthetic assembly of aluminum frames all sharpened to a razers edge with canvas that was connected to her torso by a series of straps and buckles. The other side of her torso held no real scars, but her wing on this side was also severed at the half way point with the same assembly of prosthetics connected to it. Seeing both her artificial wings only shocked the changeling enchanter as Silver opened them up and used the passing winds to lift herself from the deck as she flew upward towards Daring Do. However as Silver started to close in on the hanging explorer, a loud snap was heard as one of her prosthetics fell apart causing Silver to lose control. Seeing this Zeil called, “SILVER!!!”
Before anything else could happen, Silver used her loss of control to bank into the Jacobs ladder as she quickly grabbed onto the rope structure stopping herself from being thrown overboard by the passing winds.

Sighing in relief, Silver looked to Daring Do who now was losing her grip as the skilled assassin quickly tried to finish reaching her friend by climbing the ladder as fast as she could. However, before she was able to reach her, another wave collided with the side of The Bloody Tide as the impact caused the ship to dip to the port side leaving Daring Do to lose her grip just as the yardarm hung over the sea. Seeing Daring fall, Silver called, “No! DAZZY!!!”
As Daring Do fell over the ship’s railing and into the water, Zeil saw something that worried him. After hitting the sea, Zeil saw the other end of Daring Do’s lifeline follow her into the water as he called, “NO!!!”
Reacting out of impulse, Zeil darted towards the portside rail as he stepped onto the railing and jumped off of the ship as he quickly changed into a sea pony leaving his own lifeline to fall off with his transformation. As Zeil hit the water, he wasted no time in diving deep into the sea as he followed the sinking rope until he saw the fading mare attached to it. Without hesitation, Zeil grabbed Daring Do and swam to the surface as fast as he could as Daring Do held onto him tightly. After breaking the water’s surface, Zeil quickly looked around as he fought the rough sea until he could see The Bloody Tide still rocking amongst the waves. As the two held onto each other, Daring spoke, “There it is… but… how do we get back on?”
Zeil studied the wave’s movements as he looked at a large approaching wave as he spoke, “With the right timing… hold your breath.”

Doing as she was told, Daring Do held her breath as Zeil waited till she was ready, then dove deep into the water before turning around then darting back towards the surface in an angle. As the two breached the surface of the water, the speed that Zeil had built caused both creature to jettison from the sea as their angle along with the timing of the waves ensured that they both would land on the main deck of The Bloody Tide just as the ship’s deck was tilted down so that their landing would be on the center of the ship. After the two crashed onto the deck of the ship, the crew of The Bloody Tide quickly surrounded the two as Zeil turned back into a zebra while he and Daring Do coughed up what water was in their lungs. As the crew surrounded them, Pinpoint helped Daring onto her hooves as Captain Sail helped Zeil as he spoke, “Lad… that has to be one of the craziest saved I have ever seen. S’pose you earned your knighthood didn’t ya.”
Zeil smiled as Daring Do regained her strength and spoke, “Zeil… thanks… I own you one.”
Zeil shook his head, “We’re even… you got me on this ship didn’t you?”
As Daring smiled to his response, Silver who was still on the Jacobs ladder sighed with relief as she mumbled to herself, “Its only morning and I’m already wishing this day would just end… I can barely take this tensions anymore.”
As she rubbed her head in irritation, Silver looked forward as her eyes crossed over a dark figure in the distance. Confused Silver started climbing higher up the Jacob’s ladder to get a better look.

Back on the deck Daring Do spoke, “Seems that Lifeline didn’t do much did it…” she held up the loose rope that was tied to her, “If it’s going to snap like this then what’s the point?”
Pinpoint followed the rope to its end as he spoke, “Captain…”
Captain Sail looked at the end of the rope as he spoke, “The line didn’t snap lass… it was cut.”
Daring Do and Zeil quickly looked at the rope to confirm what was said as Zeil spoke, “Cut… but… who would cut it? And why?”
As Captain Sail looked at the rope his expression became angry, “Where is Arnold…”
“CAPTAIN!!! SHIP OFF THE STARBOARD!!!”
As Silver called what she saw, everypony on deck looked to the side as they saw a small brigantine sailing in line with The Bloody Tide. Seeing the distant ship shrouded in darkness, Captain Sail watched until faint flashes of light could be seen from the vessel as Captain Sail called, “CANNONFIRE!!!”
As that was called, a small cluster of cannonballs collided with the deck of The Bloody Tide as the thick falling rain was soon joined by splinters from the wooden deck.”

Down below in the galley, the plank wall lining the starboard side of the ship jutted inward in random places as Jim and Princess Skystar stumbled from the impacting cannonballs leaving the princess to ask, “Wh-what was that?”
Jim replied, “Cannon fire… we are under attack?”
The princess looked at Jim, “What should we do?”
Jim replied, “We stay put, and stay away from the starboard walls. I told you I’ll protect you and that’s what I’ll d-”
“If you want to go above… then you can leave the princess in my hooves. She has better chance with me then with a pirate anyways.”
Hearing the voice, both hippogriffs looked to the stairs as General Arnold trotted down and smiled. As this was seen Princess Skystar spoke, “General what’s going on? Why i-“
Before she could finish, Jim stepped between the princess and General Arnold as he spoke, “The ship is under attack. Why aren’t you on deck?”
General Arnold nodded as he replied, “I don’t answer to you boy… so don’t address me like some peasant.”
Seeing something was wrong Princess Skystar replied, “General… are you alright? Your acting stra-”
Jim raised his hoof as if to protect the princess behind him as he spoke, “So the snake finally bears his fangs.”

General Arnold replied in false confusion, “Snake?”
Jim replied, “Don’t play dumb… Captain Sail warned us that there was a traitor amongst the princess’s group. And you were the only one that fit the bill.”
General Arnold asked, “Really… how so?”
Jim replied as he made sure he was completely between the general and the princess, “There were a number of ships in Framage too many to count… but amongst them was one that Captain Sail knew well. The Cross Saber.”
General Arnold drew his sword as he replied, “I don’t see how that has anything to do with me.”
Jim nodded, “It wouldn’t… but then again, that particular ship is crewed by a very specific group of pirate hunters that are well known for working with generals of other kingdoms… Defecting generals.”
Princess Skystar was surprised, “Defecting generals? You mean?...” she gave General Arnold a confused look, “Are… are you betraying use?”
General Arnold shook his head, “With all due respect your majesty… It was the queen who betrayed use first.”
Princess Skystar was concerned, “Wh-what?”

General Arnold paced as he explained, “For centuries, the leviathan has restricted his waters and tasked the guardian to protect the pearl from all who intend to misuse its power. Then when the last pony guardian passed, the task was placed upon our queen, who so foolishly took the pearl from Home and hid it in a place where it became vulnerable even to the Storm King. That… I could overlook. But when the storm king was defeated what did she do?... She pleaded with the Leviathan to open his waters to outsiders, and broke apart his relic! She put all of our lives at risk just to please her new pony friends! But the last straw, the very thing that set me over, was placing her trust… on the very pirate that killed the last guardian of the pearl. She trusted Captain Sail the pirate that murdered Siren, with the protection of her daughter’s life over her own navy… if she has such little trust in her own, then what point do we serve her?”
Angry Jim replied, “You serve your queen because it’s where your loyalty lies! You made an oath to protect the crown!”
The soldier stopped pacing, “Don’t talked about what you don’t understand boy! I made an oath to the Hippogriff Kingdom! But if she wants to turn her back on what we stand for, then she is no queen of mine.”
Princess Skystar asked, “What do you intend to do?”
The general smiled, “I’m going to take what’s left of the pearl, and guard it myself. I’ll ensure that it will be safe… even from you! Now… hand over the key to the chest.”

On the main deck, everypony was picking themselves up from the recent attack as Captain Sail called, “ALL HOOVES TO THE CANNONS! Make ready with explosive shot and hold to fire!” he looked at Powder Keg, “Mr Keg, get to the gun deck and make those cannons ready as well.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’n.” he looked to a few sailors, “You lot! On me we need to load the cannons below!” he looked back to Daring, “Miss Do? A little assistance?”
With her strength regained Daring stood up, “Sure, as long as I don’t need my wing I can help.”
With that said, Daring Do, Powder Keg and a number of sailors went down to the next lower deck to load the cannons there as the rest stayed to load the cannons on the main deck. Back Below in the galley, the three hippogriff could hear the crew above on the gun deck loading cannons as Jim spoke, “Okay… so you’ve established your plan… so now what? You think the captain will just let you trot away with the chest?”
General Arnold replied as he put his talon on the pearl shard around his neck, “No… but with the Cross Saber hunters as a distraction, all I need to do is get to the water, and change into a sea pony. Now, Princess Skystar, there was no part of this plan that involved hurting you, so if you want it to stay that way… hand over the key to the chest.”

Nervous Princess Skystar took a step back as Jim stepped further in front of her as he replied, “You ain’t gettin’ anythin’ from her highness. Not now, not ever.”
General Arnold chuckled, “And who is gonna stop me boy… you? I doubt you know any better, but an inexperienced fool like you is nothing to me. I’ve been fighting wars since before you were even born.”
Above on the main deck a sailor approached Captain Sail, “Captain, all cannons loaded. Should we fire?”
Captain Sail put his hoof up as he watched the opposing ship closely, “Hold fire… just a little bit longer.”
As the storm fueled waved continued rocking both ships, the small brig finished reloading as that ship’s captain who couldn’t be seen through the thick rain called over the distance, “FIRE!”
With that order the small brig fired all of its guns, however with a large waves pushing against the opposite side, the cannon’s aimed was forced downward as all twelve guns that fired sent their cannon balls into the water just a few feet short of The Bloody Tide. Smiling at the rookie mistake, Captain Sail waited just a little bit longer and readied himself to give the order.

Back below, Jim responded to General Arnold comment as he glared in anger, “You got experience in a fight. That I’ll agree… but there is something you don’t have that I do.”
General Arnold shifted his eyes to the princess and back as he chuckled, “Oh… don’t tell me you’re gonna say something sappy like, the love of a princess, or someone to protect right? Don’t be a hopeless romantic… this ain’t a fairytale where the colt gets the girl at the end.”
Although he blushed slightly, Jim replied as if it didn’t faze him, “Not that… what meant something that gives me an advantage in this fight… the thing that guarantees your gonna lose.”
General Arnold replied, “Oh? And what’s that?”
Above on the main deck, Captain Sail watched as the large wave that sent the brigantine’s cannon fire into the sea slowly passing under its keel raising the small vessel higher than The Bloody Tide and allowing it to expose its underside just as it crossed the crest of the wave. Seeing the smaller ships belly Captain Sail called, “FIRE!!!”
hearing the order, Powder Keg on the gun deck below relayed the call, “FIRE!!!”

In the galley as the order was heard above, Jim replied to General Arnold, “What I have… is my sea legs!”
That said, Jim charged towards the armed general as the general readied himself for an attack from the unarmed hippogriff. However as he readied himself, the cannons on both the main deck and the gun deck above fired off as the sudden recoil of all seventeen cannons caused the ship to jerk in the opposing direction causing the unsuspecting general to stumble as Jim grabbed a chair in his charge and swung it as hard as he could leaving the small piece of furniture to shatter against the general’s head while knocking him to the floor. Above all seventeen explosive shells hit and buried themselves into the small brig along the ships keel as they each exploded with enough force to shatter that very backbone of the small ship as the weight of the ships mast and the pressure of the massive wave caused it to break apart. The bow towards the front and the stern to the rear.

Back below, with the general stunned momentarily, Jim had reached the attacker as the unarmed sailor tackled the soldier slamming him against the ships mast. After hitting the large pillar like structure, General Arnold tried to regain his senses but before he could Jim grabbed his beak with his talon and continuously began slamming his head against the mast over and over as each hit made the general become even more disoriented. As the fight continued below, Captain Sail stood amongst his cheering crew as they all looked towards the sinking brig off their starboard side. However as they cheered, Captain Sail felt uneasy as he turned to look out the port side as he yelled, “BRACE!!!!”
At that moment, a second ship this one a frigate slightly smaller then the tide emerged from the darkness as the smaller ship collided with The Bloody Tide’s Port Side. Down below, Jim continued to bash General Arnold’s head against the mast in hopes of knocking him unconscious, but as the opposing ship collided with The Bloody Tide, the shockwave knocked Jim to the floor as General Arnold took this opportunity to kick the younger hippogriff away before picking himself up and wiping the blood from his face, “You stupid fool… I wanted to leave this ship without harming anyone, but look like I’m going to have to teach you a lesson.”

As General Arnold started to approach Jim, Princess Skystar stepped between the two as she spoke, “No general… you stay back.”
General Arnold sighed, “Don’t bother princess, we both know that even you don’t have the strength to stop me.”
“But I do…”
as General Arnold turned to look towards the voice, a spyglass was swung as if it were a club as the brass tool shattered against General Arnolds head as the impact caused the general to fall to the floor unconscious. Confused and relieved, Princess Skystar and Jim looked to Pinpoint as the Quartermaster looked at his destroyed spyglass and sighed, “Pity… at least this gives me a reason to buy a new one now.” He tossed the spyglass away, “You alright Jim?”
Still on the floor Jim nodded, “Uh… Aye sir.”
Pinpoint replied as he tossed a set of shackles and a leather belt on the deck as he spoke, “Well… on your hooves lad! Put this traitor in chains and bind his wings. Captain will have a talk with him once we deal with what’s happening on deck. Till then, Stay with the princess.”

Moments ago, as the second ship colligated with The Bloody Tide, grappling hooks were tossed from the attacking frigate as a number of sailors jumped onto the main deck. Seeing the attacking sailors, Captain Sail called, “The Cross Saber! ALL HOOVES ATTACK!!!” he looked to his quartermaster, “Mr. Point, Find Arnold, and put him in chains… but don’t kill him… that honor is mine.”
Nodding to the order, Pinpoint drew his sword and tossed it to his captain as he replied, “Aye Captain… consider it done. Just don’t die.”
Captain Sail smiled as he caught the sword, “I ain’t heard her song yet… so that ain’t happenin’.”
Smiling Pinpoint rushed down the stairs in the lower deck as Captain Sail turned to face the pirate hunters.

As the pirate hunters jumped across the ships railings onto The Bloody Tide, Zeil saw a few charge at him as they drew swords and called, “Any who sail with pirates deserve death!”
As they neared their changeling target, a wave from the surrounding storm washed water over the deck and through Zeil’s hooves as he placed his hoof in the moving water and flung it towards the attackers. As his hoof swung upward, the water it carried turned to a solid vertical stream as a large amount of water flew towards the attackers, hitting them like a solid brick wall and knocking them to the ground. As the sailors laid incapacitated, Zeil looked at his hoof and mumbled, “Wow… I didn’t think that would work. Thank you Matthias.”
“LOOKOUT!!!”
Quickly looking back up, Zeil noticed that a larger stallion had charged through the wave and was close enough to strike Zeil with his sword. However before he could finish his swing, Silver dropped out of the rigging as she used the sharpened metal of her prosthetic wing to stab the stallion in his back as her weapon dug deep with the weight of her fall.

After impaling her target, Silver tried to pull her prosthetic from the corpse but as she did the blade was stuck as the straps holding the prosthetic onto her body gave way first leaving the weapon to break free from her body and remain stuck in the dead sailor. As Zeil looked at the exposed scars on the remaining half of Silver’s wing she gave him an annoyed look, “What, never seen a bat pony without wings before?”
Zeil nodded, “Actually… I haven’t. Where is your Scythe?”
Silver sighed in irritation, “Below deck, I wasn’t expecting to fight anyone today… oh well, this will give me practice in hoof to hoof. What about you? do you intend to stick with your no killing rule? Or will you be joining the fight?”
Zeil smiled, “I’ll be joining the fight but I still won’t be killing anypony. I have my pride after all.”
Silver nodded as she smiled sinisterly, “Well, seems we both will be challenged here then wont we?”
Zeil nodded, “I think I can manage… can you.”
That said, Zeil gestured behind Silver as another enemy sailor approached and readied his sword to strike her in the back. With the target too close to dodge and her only means of defense lodged in the dead stallion, Silver stepped back in worry but as she did a gunshot rang out as a bullet flew over Zeil’s shoulder, passed Silver and hit the pony in his face as the attacker fell back dead.

Confused Silver turned and looked passed Zeil as Zeil turned to Powder Keg who was standing at the top of the stairs leading below deck as he started reloading his musket. Seeing this Zeil smiled “Good shot Mr. Keg. Captain Sail was right when he said you’re the best sniper on the sea.”
Powder Keg smiled, “And don’t cha be forgettin’ it neither.”
As the gunner went on to join the fight Silver looked at Zeil with confusion, “Did… did you know he was there?”
Zeil smiled, “I’m a changeling, I could sense him while he was on his was there.”
As Zeil went on to join the fight Silver sighed, “You really are crazy… my mechanic and you would get along great.

Up on the top deck Captain Sail and a few of his sailors fought their way through the invading hunters as he looked across the stormy darkness to see the opposing Frigate’s captain climb up from his slightly smaller ship. As he stepped over the railing onto The Bloody Tide, the Pirate hunter smiled, “Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail…”
Captain Sail nodded, “Ah, the captain of the Cross Sabers I presume… forgive me for not knowing your name lad… all pirate hunters of my age are either dead or retired. But I’m guessing it was you who made the deal with the snake on my ship.”
The captain nodded as he replied, “Captain Cutler… at your service. And yes, Mr. Arnold wanted us to attack you… but don’t take it personal Captain. Pardoned Pirates aren’t nessisary my favorite to hunt. After all, any who choose to put away their life of crime are better for it in my book.”
Captain Sail readied his swords, “Then why attack me at all.”
Cutler sighed, “An accord is an accord. I was paid to come here, collect the traitor and his cargo and leave. In all honesty, you aren’t even part of the arrangement.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Then you’re out of luck… Mr. Arnold is most likely indisposed right now… and if you know who I am… then you know he is already dead.”

The Captain readied his sword, “I can’t take your word for it captain. Pardoned or not… your still a pirate.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Then let a pirate be what he is… after all… you’ve hunted enough to know.” He raised his sword, “No prey?...”
Captain Cutler drew his sword, “No pay.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Now who sounds like a pirate laddie.”
That said, Captain Cutler charged at Captain Sail as the older sailor stood his ground and only blocked each skillful attempt that Captain Cutler made to kill his target. With Captain Sail only using his skills to block parry and deflect, Captain Cutler started getting irritated as he spoke during his attacks, “What?... what are you doing?”
Captain Sail deflected and parried the enemy away as he replied, “What’s it look like?”
Getting angry Cutler charged, “Looks like your running from me… why? Why don’t you fight back?”
Blocking three more attacks Captain Sail replied, “This is the skill of a modern pirate hunter? How disappointing.”

Cutler was getting enraged as his attacks became more unfocused, “Disappointing?... are you mocking me?”
As Cutler attacked, Captain Sail lead him closer to the ships railing as he blocked a vertical attack, parried his opponents weapon away and pinned it to the railing as he forced Cutler’s blade partially into the rail. Trying to pull himself free, Cutler spoke, “Wh-what?”
Captain Sail spoke with a dark tone, “This is all you can do? All of that time hunting and slaying pirates and this is all you can muster? You’re supposed to be a pirate hunter, a challenge for any skilled pirate… but to me… you’re just a disappointment.”
Then with only one attempt, Captain Sail grinded his blade up Cutlers sword as he raised it over the hunters guard and buried it into his chest.

Stunned by the sudden shock, Cutler tried to understand what happened as Captain Sail spoke, “I hoped for more… but if this is all todays pirate hunters can do, then I’m glade I’m no pirate anymore. You wouldn’t even be enough to make me proud of removing you. I guess is just goes to show. They don’t train ‘em like they used to.”
With the last of his consciousness fading Captain Cutler tried to speak through his pain, “Bu-but… I’m… s…”
With no way of finishing his final words, the Dying captain fell to the deck as Captain Sail sighed, “Don’t take it personal captain… if it were up to me, I would have spared you and only Arnold would have to be the one to die today… But that sory excuse for a soldier crossed the line when he threatened my family. Any you… agreed to help him. For that… I wont spare you… and he… he will be far worse then you once im done with him.”
That said, Captain Sail grabbed the dying stallion by his hind hoof and dragged him across the top deck as he looked over the chaos on his ship before calling, “ALL ABOARD THE BLOODY TIDE!!! ATTENTION ON DECK!!!”
With his call everypony on board to include his own crew and the pirate hunters looked to the captain as Captain Sail tossed Captain Cutler onto the main deck as the impact in combination with the sword still imbedded in his torso proved fatal as Cutler died instantly upon hitting the deck of The Bloody Tide.

Seeing their dead captain laying on the deck, the Pirate hunters slowly lowered their weapons as all eyes slowly moved back to Captain Sail who stood over the ship. With an expression of anger on his face Captain Sail called, “All hooves on my crew, Get back to your stations and bring in all sails… as for the rest of ya… GET YOUR SORRY PLOTS OFF MY SHIP!!!!”
As the order echoed through the misty air, lightning from the surrounding storm struck the waves behind him as the seemingly divine action also struck fear into the pirate hunter as they all immediately fled and quickly jumped back to The Cross Saber. As the scrambling hunter crew fled Pinpoint came from below deck dragging the chained General above as the quartermaster saw the chaos and smiled, “Looks like I missed the fun.”
Captain Sail trotted down to the main deck as he looked at his quartermaster and nodded, “Impeccable timing as usual Mr Point… I’m to assume Jimbo had no problems dealing with the snake?”

Pinpoint threw General Arnold down on the deck as he replied, “Jim did well, but he still needed a little assistance.”
Stunned the chained General struggled to free himself, but the chains on his talons and hooves and the leather belt around his torso holding his wings shut proved too strong as he looked around and found himself lying next to the dead Captain Cutler as he spoke, “Can’t trust a wannabe pirate to hunt a pirate now can we.”
Captain Sail nodded, “That reminds me…”
With no concern, Captain Sail trotted to the dead Captain Cutler as he picked up the corps by the very weapon still impaling the captain. Leaving a trail of thick blood in his path, Captain Sail dragged the dead captain by the weapon in his chest, stepped up onto the portside railing, and looked to the smaller frigates rushing crew. With one hoof on the Jacob’s ladder and the other carrying the dead captain by the sword in his chest Captain Sail called, “You there! Don’t forget to take this with you!”
With that said, Captain Sail reared back the swords handle in his hoof as he thrusted the sword with enough force to throw the dead captain from the blade as the captain of the Cross Saber fell onto the deck of the hunter’s ship. Though the falling corps caught the attention of the opposing crew, it didn’t slow their actions any as they quickly worked to cut the lines tying the ships together and quickly opened their sails to flee the site as fast as possible.

As Captain Sail Stood upon the railing looking down onto the fleeing opponent, something seemed somewhat iconic about this particular sight. Zeil didn’t understand it too much, But with the angry captain standing on the rail, blood dripping sword in hoof and a vigorous storm behind him, causing his cape to wave in the wind. This, was the sight that pony tales always showed, when they described the captain of a crew of pirates, this was the Crimson Ghost Hunter. As he watched the pirate hunters flee, Captain Sail held his unamused expression as Daring Do, Princess Skystar, and Jim stepped up from below deck as the princess Spoke, “Captain Sail, is it safe to come out n-“
Before she could finish, Princess Skystar looked to General Arnold who was still laying on the deck, then to the trail of running blood that lead all the way to the ship’s captain as the sight alone was enough to silence her. Though water from the storm washed some of it away, the blood was still thick enough to remain as Daring Spoke next, “The battle is over captain, the ship is still yours.”
Captain Sail turned to the group and spoke, “I would say it is… but then again… there is still one more enemy aboard the Tide that must be dealt with.”
Stepping down from the railing, Captain Sail passed his sword back to Pinpoint as he spoke in anger, “Get him on his hooves.”

With that order, a number of sailors picked Arnold up and held him up as Captain Sail gave the traitor an angry look. As Captain Sail looked upon the hippogriff, Powder Keg approached, “What’s the order capt’n?”
Captain Sail replied with an angry but calm tone, “Ready number three… Solid.”
Powder Keg smiled sinisterly, “Aye aye Capt’n.”
With that order Powder Keg approached on of the cannons and started loading it by himself as Captain Sail continued, “String em’ up…”
With that order the sailors holding General Arnold tied a rope to the chain that bound the hippogriff’s talons as Princess Skystar spoke, “Captain, what are you going to do to him?”
Captain Sail shifted his eyes to Princess Skystar for a mere moment, then to Daring, “Miss Do?… Take her majesty below… she’s fare to innocent to whiteness this.”

Daring Do nodded as she replied, “Aye captain.”
Daring approached Princess Skystar she spoke, “Your majesty, the captain is right, we need to go below deck.”
Princess Skystar objected, “N-no I need to know what your g-“
As Princess Skystar tried to reply, Captain Sail looked towards Jim and interrupted her, “Jimbo?”
Nodding at what he was wanting, Jim looked to Princess Skystar as he spoke, “Your majesty… please… I know you don’t understand but I would advise against disobeying the captain.”
Seeing Jim agree, Princess Skystar sighed in disappointment before nodding, “Alright Jim… I… I trust you.”
With no further objections, Jim and Princess Skystar went below deck as Daring turned to follow, but before she went below Daring Do spoke, “Captain… I know I can’t change your mind… but I at least thank you for taking the princess into consideration.”
Captain Sail didn’t reply, instead he just nodded in agreement as Daring Do turned to the stairs and went below deck with the others. As soon as they were gone, the crew of ex-pirates hoisted General Arnold up by his chained talons as the general spoke, “What are you going to do captain… kill me? Just like you did her… right?”
Captain Sail replied with an unamused look, “Lad… Ya don’t have to remind everypony here who killed Siren… but know this… General… She died like a Captain. But you… you will die like a traitor.”
Zeil could only give Captain Sail a surprised look as the captain turned to the rest of his crew as he spoke, “Lads! Listen up! General Arnold here… Betrayed his kingdom. Made a deal with pirate hunters and waited like a snake in the grass to strike us amidst a storm like an amateur assassin.”
All of a sudden Zeil could feel anger build up from the surrounding crew as Captain Sail smiled, “But he made a mistake… he didn’t realize I can smell a land snake from anywhere at sea.”

Zeil started to feel nervous, not only was the aura of anger from Captain Sail as strong as a pony ready to commit murder, but the same aura of anger was rising from everypony within his crew. Meaning that the only word to describe his company, would be a crew of murderous pirates. Nervous, Zeil held his silence as Captain Sail continued, “So… let me ask you somethin’ Mr. Arnold… Have you ever been to the East Atlantian Sea?”
As General Arnold was lifted from the deck and moved passed the starboard railing till he was hanging over the sea, the general replied, “The East Atlantian… what are you talking about Sail?”
Captain Sail followed the hanging general to the ships railing as he continued, “Out there… there is a pagan village that have the strangest religion. Seems that they believe that when you die, you are judged for your sins. If they are little or fruitless, you go to a place of endless bliss and happiness. But if they are bad… you are sent to a place of endless fire and pain… a place crafted of nine circles… each one more torturous then the last. And the bottom of this… Hell… is the deepest darkest circle, meant specifically for traitors and mutineers… ya know what that means?”
General Arnold could only give the angry captain a nervous look as he was hoisted in front of the cannon that Powder Keg was loading. Seeing this concerned Zeil as he started to step forward to say something, “Capta-”
Before he could say enough to get Captain Sail’s attention, Silver put her hoof out stopping him in his tracks as Zeil looked to the composed assassin who only shook her head as if to say, Stay out of it. Getting the message but still worried, Zeil looked back to the hanging captive as Captain Sail smiled the most sinister and evil smile anypony had ever seen, “It means… that when I die and go to this hell… I won’t be passing you by.” He held his head high as he spoke calmly, “Fire...”

As that was said, General Arnold’s eyes locked on Powder Keg who was standing behind the cannon as the gunner smiled for a mere moment before pulling a cord and setting the cannon off. At that very moment time seemed to have slowed for Zeil as he watched in shock as the large plume of smoke and fire exited the bore of the cannon as the smoke concealed the solid cannonball as it exited the bore in a flash and cut through everything, the air, the rain, and the target. As the cannonball hit the hanging general, the force from the impact destroyed the officer and snapped the rope holding his chains as he the cannonball and all debris created from the cannon shot flew into the sea and sank into the waves. Stunned by what he just witnessed, Zeil stood in silence as Captain Sail looked over the railings into the water below, removed his hat, and brushed a few specs of blood from the recent event away. As he put his hat back on, he looked into the sea and shook his head as the rain above stopped falling bringing his attention to the sky. Seeing that the storm was ending and the sea was calming, Captain Sail turned back to his crew as he looked at the herd of ponies that looked to him for instructions. Seeing their silence Captain Sail called, “Well… what cha gawkin’ at? The rain stopped but the swell is still rough so I’d advise you open the main sail and get the Tide back on course. We are one body less… so we better be movin’ faster!”
With that order, the crew quickly started following their instructions as Pinpoint turned to the crew and relayed the order, “You heard the captain! Open the main sail and get us to the wind! Due south lads! Straight to Zebrica!”
As the crew got back to work, Zeil and Silver stood in silence as Captain Sail started to trot passed them to the upper deck. As he passed, Captain Sail stopped for a moment as he looked to the serious expression on Silver’s face as he spoke, “Somethin’ wrong Miss Mist? Any comment on my actions?”

Though she knew she was stronger than the old captain, she still understood the risk of angering him further as she shook her head, “not at all Captain… as you said before the voyage, at sea… you’re judge, Jury, and… Executioner.”
Captain Sail nodded, “I see…” he looked to Zeil, “Sir Zeil… judging by your expression, I’m assuming the sight was a little much for ya… and I apologies. I assumed a knight such as yourself were familiar with a little bloodshed. If I knew it was too much for ya, I would have sent you below with the princess.”
Still a little shaken by what he had seen, Zeil shook it off as he replied, “No… I’ve seen plenty of blood and death in my life… I just didn’t expect to see something so… sudden.”
Captain Sail nodded, “At sea outside national waters, the law is upheld by the captain and his officers. If one breaks the law… the captain has the choice to deliver the criminal to the next port or… punish the criminal himself. So… I was just doing my civic duty.”
Silver nodded with an unconvinced expression, “And what did you call it before you were pardoned… back when you were still a pirate.”
With no concern Captain Sail replied, “Discipline, making an example of one to remind the rest… who is captain here. That’s how ya keep mutineers at bay, and how loyalty is maintained.”

With no more words in his defense, Captain Sail started back to the helm as he spoke, “The sea is calming now… we don’t need you two on deck anymore so if you feel ya need it, go below and rest.”
As the captain Started up the started trotting towards the helm, Silver spoke to Zeil, “C’mon, let’s go check on the princess.”
Zeil nodded as he followed the bat pony below deck. Up by the helm Captain Sail stood next to the helmscolt as Pinpoint approached, “Funny… you seemed to have gotten more merciful in your old age.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Don’t ya go calling me old… you have two decades on me remember?”
Pinpoint smiled, “I was talking about letting that crew of hunters go like ya did… in the old days we would have raided their ship and sent them off with nothing more than enough food to make it to the nearest coast.”
Captain Sail nodded, “They ain’t pirates, so raiding their ship would be theft which… we don’t do anymore. Sides, I was seein’ too much red to think clearly. Seein’ what almost became of Miss Do put me in a bit of a foul mood.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… we need to thank Sir Zeil for that. Without his actions she would have been lost to the swell.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… good thing he is here. Even if he doesn’t know where he should be.”

Pinpoint nodded as he looked over the ship, “So… what are we going to do about this? It’s possible that the princess will be unhappy with your actions… that may even put a scare on our relations with Queen Novo.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No scar can cut deeper then when Siren died.”
Pinpoint nodded, “Aye… and that statement alone falls onto all who knew her.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And killed her…”
Pinpoint sighed, “Don’t go talkin’ that again… we did all we could. Was her choice to go down with her ship, can’t fault her for that… or us for that matter.”
Captain Sail sighed, “Sorry, just having that pearl on this ship again brings back too many memories. But either way… it’s a good thing the princess and Jim are getting along as they are.”

Pinpoint smiled as he looked back to his captain, “He managed to protect her… just as you thought. I had to step in at the end, but I have no doubt Jim would have found a way out of the trouble he was in. So… you expected him to stay with her highness didn’t ya?”
Captain Sail nodded, “I saw how they acted last night, easy to see that he fancies the young princess. As… she fancies him too. I knew that the only way to drag out the snake, was to separate him from the princess, so I felt it best to send Jim below with you when you got more hooves to help on deck. I knew that if the general argued about leavin’ the princess alone, then Jim would volunteer to stay with her.”
Pinpoint chuckled, “Playin’ matchmaker are we?”
Captain Sail smiled, “He’s young, as is she… If Jim truly feels for her, then I’d like him to have the chance to tell her now before she goes ashore. That way, he can have the chance to be with her if he chooses, better that then to hoard regrets. Besides not all treasure be Silver and gold. S’pose he found his and doesn’t know it. Isn’t that what love is?”
Pinpoint’s expression became depressed as he continued, “And what of my niece… easy to see that she also has feelings for one aboard.”
Captain Sail sighed as he replied with an unhappy tone, “She does that’s easy to see even if she tries to hide it… sadly I fear the noble knight doesn’t feel the same. I only hope that her story that is in progress doesn’t have a sad ending.”

Bk8/Ch4 The Princess and The Exploror

Book 8 / Chapter 4
The Princess and the Explorer
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 4)

Captain Sail stood in his quarters behind his desk as he looked out the large window that revealed the sea behind the Bloody Tide. As he stood looking out the windows, Powder Keg and Pinpoint stood in front of his desk as Powder Keg spoke, “Seems a might… Extreme don’t ya think capt’n?”
Captain Sail replied, “You have doubt in him?”
Powder Keg shook his head, “No no… I have nothin’ but confidence in the lad, but he is a good sailor and with one less we ma-“
Pinpoint interrupted, “We can manage… the lad is skilled but it’s not like we had trouble before he joined the crew.”
Captain Sail nodded as he continued looking out the window and replied, “What about you Mr. Point? You think it’s a good idea to give him the chance to make this choice?”

Pinpoint nodded as he replied, “Of course captain… as you said, the lad is young. And this would be good for him. That said, why are you choosing now to give him this decision?”
All of a sudden a knock came at the door to the cabin as Captain Sail turned around and smiled, “You will see…”
As that was said a voice came from beyond the door, “Captain? Its Jim, I brought the princess and her party as ordered.”
Captain Sail nodded as he called, “Enter then Lad.”
After that, the door to the cabin opened as Jim, Princess Skystar, Daring Do, Zeil, and Silver entered the cabin as Jim spoke, “As requested, the princess and her body guards.”
Captain Sail nodded as he gestured to a table that sat a few feet in front of his desk, “Good lad… your majesty could you take a seat please, there is something we need to discuss.”
With the previous day’s events still fresh in her mind, Princess Skystar hesitated for a few seconds then approached the table and sat down. As she did this, Jim turned to leave the room as Captain Sail looked to him and spoke, “Hold fast Jimbo… this concerns you too…”
Doing as he was told Jim turned back to the captain and stayed where he was standing as Zeil, Daring Do, and Silver gathered around the table and stood behind the Princess as if they were her full time bodyguards.

Seeing the ponies at the table and feeling the tenseness of the room around him, Captain Sail approached his desk as he opened a drawer and pulled out a bottle of fine rum. Then as he took the bottle with him towards the table, Pinpoint turned to a cabinet on the side of the room as he pulled out a few wooden cups as he approached the table and sat them down in the center as he spoke, “Here Captain… I’m sure the princess would rather drink from these then from the bottle.”
Captain Sail nodded as he approached the table and spoke, “Very good Mr Point.” He looked at the princess, “Beggin’ your pardon your majesty, it’s not often I have the honor of serving royalty a drink.”
Though it was fake, Princess Skystar smiled and nodded for a brief moment as she held her silence which only increased the tenseness of the atmosphere. As Captain Sail approached the table he pulled the cork from the rum and sniffed it slightly as he smiled, “Ah… a fine year, much better than the grog we have below… and far more expensive if I should say so.”

As Captain Sail poured each pony a drink, Zeil leaned towards Daring as he spoke, “What’s with that? I though the captain had a rule about drinking on duty?”
Daring whispered back, “It’s something that Captain Sail has always done. To ease the tenseness of a serious discussion, he always allows those involved to drink. That way it releases the intimidation he may have on his sailors.”
Though he wasn’t supposed to hear it, Captain Sail smiled as he finished pouring the rum unto each cup as he spoke, “When a subordinate speaks to a superior they tend to say only what they feel their boss wants them to hear. But when drinking a fine rum they can relax and speak freely and honestly without fear.” He picked up a cup and tried to hand it to the princess, “It’s an old method from my father, but it proved effective at building trust, so I use it often.”
When the princess saw the cup she raise her hoof in a dismissive way and shook her head as if to say she didn’t want it. seeing this, Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders as he sat at the table and drank from the same cup he tried to hand off, “Well… in most cases it works… help yourself lads… since this is a meeting to discuss the voyage you are all free to take a cup. As the rest of the room looked at the small cups of rum in the center of the table, Silver was the only one to accept as she shrugged her shoulders and spoke, “Well… it isn’t a Moon Drop but I’m not one to turn down a free drink.”

As Silver started drinking the rum, Captain Sail smiled as he spoke, “First… let me start off by thanking each and every one of ya. Thanks to all your help we were able to… whether the storm sort of speak. Though… let me be frank to address the elephant in the room. Regarding the late general and his betrayal.” He looked at the princess, “Your majesty… I’m sure you have something to say on the matter?”
Princess Skystar replied with hesitation, “Tell me… what happened to General Arnold?”
Captain Sail replied as sympathetically as he could, “Well…I don’t want to go into detail… let’s just say… we all know the penalty for treason… so I took it upon myself to carry it out. I… executed the traitor.”
Though she expected this kind of answer she was still shocked that he admitted it so casually as she preceded to ask, “H-how did he die?”

Removing his hat and rubbing forehead as a distraction to hid his hesitation, Captain Sail carefully thought about his words as he replied, “I… I’m not at liberty to say your majesty… but… if it will ease your concern… it was quick… and it was about as close to painless as it could possibly be. Though… as for his body, that belongs to the sea now.”
Princess Skystar hesitated before replying, “Still… it’s not right wha-“
“Tell me your majesty… what is the penalty for treason in the Hippogriff kingdom? To my knowledge… its death isn’t it?”
Though she knew he was right Princess Skystar tried to defend Arnold again, “Mom would consider how long he served the kingdom bef-”
Captain Sail looked to Pinpoint as he interrupted, “Mr. Point? Last night before we all retired for sleep… I asked you to do a task, but not tell me the results till I asked for them… remember?”

Seeing where this was leading Pinpoint replied, “I do Captain… but I would suggest aga-”
Captain Sail gave Princess Skystar a serious look as he interrupted, “Then give me the report now.”
Pinpoint looked at the concern expression on Princess Skystar’s face before looking back and replying, “Are you sure Captain… as you said before… the princess is innocent.”
Captain Sail replied with no concern, “Princess Skystar is the future Queen of the hippogriff Kingdoms… Consider this her first lesson on what that means.”
Worried by the serious tone, Princess Skystar felt tense as Pinpoint nodded, “Aye Captain…” he looked at the monarch, “Three… and two unaccounted for. Those are our numbers as of yesterday…”
Confused Princess Skystar gave Captain Sail a concerned look as the captain explained, “That… is the count for sailors lost in yesterday’s battle. When we left port in Framage, we had a total of one hundred and seventeen sailors on this ship which is common for a small fifth rate frigate… but currently counting you lot… we now carry only one hundred and eleven.”

Princess Skystar felt speechless at hearing that information as Silver spoke up, “Those numbers don’t add up captain…”
Captain Sail gave her an intimidating look as he replied with a tone to match, “We don’t count traitors as souls once they decide to abandon their loyalty. To me and the rest of this crew, he’s nothing more then lost cargo… ain’t even worth salvaging.” He looked back to the princess, “You know what that means majesty? That means five of my sailors, good, hardworking stallion with lives and loved ones lost their lives to your general’s actions. Three dead and still aboard, and two, fallen overboard, victim to the storm and sea now. All because your general decided that his loyalty and pledge meant nothin’ if it meant getting what he wants. Now… I have to notify their loved ones, and family as to the cruel fate that those sailors endured. All because of Arnold… a general who isn’t worth his title or the bloodstains he left on my ship.”
Princess Skystar’s heart sank at the realization as Captain Sail saw this and added, “That said, I did kill a country colt of yours and the only bodyguard who is subject to your mother. For that I apologies, but if you think that means I wouldn’t kill him again if given the chance… your sorely mistaken. I would kill him again and again just to see him die, if it meant riding the world of one more traitor.”

Seeing the troubled expression on the princess’s face, Daring Do spoke, “Captain… maybe that was a little too far.”
Nodding, Captain Sail replied, “It may be… but these are the troubles that make a good captain… as do, they make a good queen. Either way… let’s move on…”
he paned his eyes over the group, “The reason I’ve asked you all here is because Pinpoint and I have noticed something crucial…” he focused on the hired bodyguards, “What do you three intend to do once we arrive in Equestria?”
Silver answered first, “I plan on heading to Ponyville to meet with my mechanic.” She raised her wing exposing her damaged prosthetic, “As you can see… I’m gonna be grounded for a while.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, I remember the lad. Mr Key was it? How is he faring since we last met. Hopefully he reunited with his lass and gained some meat on his bones.”
Silver smiled, “Yea, last I heard he and Derpy are living happily with their daughter. Though I think he toned down his flying experiments for a while. He doesn’t want a repeat of being crash landing on an island for a few years.”

Captain Sail chuckled at the memory, “I should say not, next time I rescue him I’m gonna have to charge him.” He looked to Daring, “And you lass? What are your planes for your return to Equestria?”
Daring pulled out her notebook as she patted the cover and smiled, “Well first thing is first, I got to head home and write this story while the memory is still fresh. The only problem I have to face is separating the tale of the knight in Lilith with the protection of a princess at sea. Either way they are sure to become fan favorites.”
Captain Sail nodded, “I look forward to reading ‘em. So long as ya make me look good.” He looked to Zeil, “And you sir knight? What do you intend to do?...”
Zeil replied, “As soon as I get back, I’m going straight to the Everfree forest. There is… someone special there waiting for me.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Ah a special somepony? Or a changeling?”
Zeil shook his head, “Actually she’s a zebra.”
Captain Sail seemed skeptic, “That right?... hmm… I wonder.”
As Zeil felt confused with Captain Sail’s expression, the Sailor shook his head as to remove the thought so he could stay on subject, “So… then that leaves us with a problem. After our return to Equestria, all three remainin’ bodyguards to the princess will be goin’ their separate ways… leaving her majesty to journey to Canterlot alone.” The group of bodyguard looked at one another in confusion as Captain Sail continued, “Well… if that’s the case… then I have no choice.” He looked at Jim, “Jimbo… from this moment forward… your daily duties will be only to report to me every morning. After that, no maintenance or inventory tasks. I want you to divot the rest of your day to protecting her highness as her temporary bodyguard.”

Every creature in the room was surprised by the order as Jim spoke up, “But… captain? Is… I mean… don’t you need my help running the ship?”
Captain Sail nodded, “The tide ran fine before you arrived lad, I think it can fare on its own. Yesterday, you showed me that you were up to the task of keepin’ her majesty safe… so I’d feel better knowing she was in your capable talons… but that’s not the end of it neither… Once we arrive in Equestria… I want you to accompany her majesty to her next destination. I’ll already have a letter on the way to the hippogriff Kingdoms to inform the queen of the general’s betrayal, as well as asking for a replacement bodyguard. Till then… where she goes… you go, is that clear?”
Though he had no real objections, Jim still felt a little concerned with the order, “Captain… are… are you kicking me off the Tide?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Quite the opposite actually… once the princess’s replacement bodyguard meets with you… you will have three options. You can continue protecting her by your own choice… you can go about your own way and start a new life elsewhere, or you can return to me and take up a roll as my third officer.”
Jim was shocked, “O-officer?”

Pinpoint smiled as he explained, “The captain asked us today if you were up to the roll, and Mr. Keg and I both agree that you are perfect for that position.”
Powder Keg added, “You’re a decent fighter, sharp as a tack, and know what needs to be done with or without an order. I’m sure you will do fine as an officer… under myself of course.”
Captain Sail nodded, “You’ve come a long way from that little cabin colt we picked up on Home. So… if it be your decision… once the princess is back with the protection of her own royal guards, then and only then will I allow you back aboard the Tide. Unless of course… you choose to stay on land for any… particular reason.”
Captain Sail gestured towards the princess, as Jim blushed slightly before replying, “I um… well… uh…”
Seeing the difficulty in his response, Pinpoint replied for him, “You have plenty of time to decide that part later lad… for now, just know your orders and answer the captain. Will you protect the princess till then?”

Jim looked at Princess Skystar as she looked away trying to hide her blushing face as Jim smiled and nodded before looking back, “Aye, with my life… Thank you Captain.”
Captain Sail smiled, “You’ve earned it lad.”
He looked at the princess who was unusually quiet about the situation as he continued, “That is… if it’s alright with her majesty. After all this means that she and Jim will be spending more time together.”
Princess Skystar was blushing slightly as she tried to reply, “W-well… I um… C-captain I… uh…”
Seeing it difficult for her to respond, Zeil spoke up in her stead, “I’m sure the princess agrees with this decision… although this does seem a little sudden.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye it does… but as we saw yesterday, a sudden action meets a sudden result. The princess need a bodyguard when we arrive in Equestria. And what better stallion then one of her own race. Now… onto another matter. Tomorrow morning we should be arriving at Zebabwee on the coast of Zebrica. Yesterday’s battle did plenty of damage on the Tide, so a few sailors will be making repairs of which will be overseen by you Mr Keg.
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’n, I’ll see to it.”
Captain Sail continued. “I’ll ask that the rest of you don’t disturb them. We shouldn’t lose any headway in our course, but… it be better if we don’t take that chance. Understood?”
The group nodded as they responded “Aye captain.”
Captain Sail looked at Daring Do as he motioned towards the bandages around her wing, “Miss Do… how are your injuries? Miner I’m assuming?”
Daring Do patted her bandaged wing as she nodded, “Yea… the surgeon said it is just a sprain. Nothing to worry about.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Good… then before we go… is there anything you lot need from me?”
The group responded with silence as Captain Sail stood, “Good… then you can take your leave. Rest or relax below deck, or feel free to enjoy the sunshine outside, just don’t get in the way of the crew’s work. Dismissed.”

That said, Captain Sail took the bottle of rum with him as he trotted back to his desk and placed it in the drawer. The rest of the group stood and started to leave the room. As the group trotted onto the main deck of the Bloody Tide Zeil could feel the princess’s troubled emotions about the idea of having Jim serve as her bodyguard. As Zeil felt this he could only smile at the flustered princess as Jim could also tell that the princess was in deep thought as he misunderstood the reason and spoke, “Your majesty, please don’t mind the Captain.”
Princess Skystar gave him a confused look, “Wait… what?”

Jim continued, “I know that the weight of Arnold’s betrayal and the sailors lost to his treachery was bad… but there was nothing that could have been done.”
Not even thinking of the subject at all, Princess Skystar smiled at his attempt to comfort her as she replied, “Oh… yes… that… that’s it… that’s what I was thinking.”
Still not noticing her real feelings Jim bowed slightly as he continued, “If anything just know this, now that I am your bodyguard, I won’t let anything happen to you. I’ll be by your side and protect you. You have my word as a sailor and a stallion.”
As she saw the bowing stallion next to her, Princess Skystar’s face turned beat read as she became even more flustered at his actions. Able to read her clearly, Daring smiled, “You know princess… Zeil is a changeling who can sense and understand emotions. So… if you were to discuss these feeling of… concern with him a little more… maybe he can help you understand them better?”

Although the advice flew over Jim’s head, the princess understood it clearly as she smiled, “That’s right… Sir Zeil… you understand these… Feelings clearly then don’t you?”
Trying to keep up with the subliminal messaging, Zeil nodded, “I um… yes?…”
Princess Skystar smiled “Can I speak with you real quick… in private?”
Confused, Zeil nodded, “Um… sure.”
That said Princess Skystar looked at the rest as she spoke, “Will you excuse us for a second.”
At that moment, Princess Skystar did something completely unexpected as she stepped onto the railing of the ship and jumped into the sea as she used the pearl shard around her neck to turn into a sea pony on her way down. As soon as the princess hit the water everypony rushed to the rails as Jim started to call, “Princess!!! MARE OVERBOA-“
Zeil interrupted, “Wait! It’s okay I’ll get her, just… give us a second…”
Confused, everypony watched Zeil as the changeling unlaced his cloak and jumped into the water while also changeling into a sea pony.

As Zeil hit the water, the ship continued on its path as Zeil looked just a few hundred feet behind it to see the princess swimming in circles while holding her face in what seemed to be a fit of panic. Concerned, Zeil swam to the royal mare as she continued her underwater pacing as she spoke, “Oh my gosh, what do I do… should I act on it sh- no no, calm down just play it cool. He is just being nice… but wait what if he is actually talking abou… no I just need to focus. But… what if… how should I…”
As the princess continued her panic induced rant, Zeil approached her as he spoke “Whoa whoa just calm down your highness. Just breathe for a second… or whatever it is we are doing right now under water.”
Hearing his word but sill in a panic, Princess Skystar stopped pacing as her rant turned into a series of unnecessarily deep breaths as she inhaled and exhaled over and over before replying, “It’s not working… I still don’t know what to do… I still do-”
at that moment, Zeil used his front flippers to grab both sided of her face as he looked into her eyes and spoke, “PRINCESS!!!... Relax… calm down and tell me what is going on. Preferably fast because… The Bloody Tide is leaving us behind.”

When the princess finally started breathing calmly Zeil released her face as Princess Skystar sighed, “Sir Zeil… you said you’re a changeling right… and apparently…” She gestured to his sea pony form, “This proves it… but… I don’t know what to do. Jim… he… um… I like him a lot… and… I’m sure he likes me too… but… what do I do?”
Zeil smiled, “That’s it? You just don’t know what to do?”
Princess Skystar gave him an annoyed look, “I’m serious! He… he’s a good guy and all… but… I’m a princess and he’s a…”
Zeil finished, “A pirate?”
“A sailor! I didn’t see him commit any crimes so don’t judge him as some criminal… but… still…”
Seeing her troubled and still concerned about the sailing ship Zeil replied, “Swim with me…”
with that Zeil started following the ship as Princess Skystar followed closely behind. As they followed the Bloody tide, Zeil spoke, “I am a changeling, but… even I know that real love is something to cherish… not as food, but just as a matter of being.”
Princess Skystar gave him a confused look, “I don’t get it? What do you mean?”
Zeil replied, “Well I used to feed on love and fake my actions to make others feel it… but then… one day I fell in love myself. When I realized what I was feeding on, I felt like… I was a terrible creature. To take something so precious just to soothe my appetite… I started to see the monster I was. So I stopped I wanted to feel that love rather than eat it.”

Keeping up with Zeil’s pace, Princess Skystar replied, “Okay… but what does that have to do with me?”
Zeil smiled, “You like him… right?”
She nodded, “Yes.”
Zeil replied, “And I know for a fact that he likes you… so… go with it.”
The royal mare still felt concerned, “But… what about the order that the captain gave him? He is supposed to protect me till I’m back with my royal gaurds. What if he decided to leave from there… or even worse… what if he wants to stay with me? Leaving everything he has behind… I can’t force that on him.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “True… but… do you want to spend the time you have together worrying about that? What happens will happen, if you explain this to him, then you both can decide on something that makes you both happy. But… if you spend all your time worrying, then you will miss the moments that matter most. Your time together.”

Princess Skystar thought to herself as she started to reply, “I guess… but… wha-”
Zeil turned and swam in front of her stopping her in her path, “Stop second guessing it! He likes you… that’s all you need to know. Take it from me, it’s… it’s painful worrying about the bad, then realizing that because of that worry, you overlooked the best part of the good.” His expression sank, “I was so afraid of losing her to the truth, that every moment with her was filled with worry. I… I never even got the chance to tell her. Now… all I can do is worry… about how she will react when I see her again, about how she will respond when I finally tell her what I am… or… if she will even be there when I get back. That’s… my burden to bare, so don’t give yourself any reason to take on a burden of your own.”
Seeing his depression, Princess Skystar could tell that this advice was from more experience as she nodded, “You’re… you’re right. I should just enjoy the moment now and stop worrying.”
Seeing that his message was getting through Zeil smiled, “Then… you should go to him.”
Princess Skystar smiled, “Thanks Sir Zeil… when you said you were a changeling I knew you were the one to ask about this. Daring Do and Silver may be mares but, they seem too… rough to ask about this sort of thing. But you… there is something about you that seems trustworthy. Now… I know why. You’re really kind, makes me glade to have you as a friend.”
Though he would disagree, Zeil still smiled as he replied, “Thank you princess, I’m happy to have you as a friend too.”
She smiled, “Oh, call me Skystar. Now let’s get back on the ship before the others worry.”

Quickly catching up to the bloody tide, the two temporary sea ponies approached the starboard side of the ship as Zeil could see a lowered Jacobs’s ladder that was no doubt lowered for them. Seeing the rope ladder, Zeil swam up to the flexible structure as he grabbed onto it and changed into his zebra form before climbing a few steps up and reaching down in an attempt to help the princess onto the structure. However as he reached down and called, “Princess?” the royal mare jettisoned herself from the water as she changed into a hippogriff in midair and flew up the high ship until she was over the main deck of the bloody tide. Seeing this Zeil mumbled, “That works too.”
As soon as Zeil was back aboard the ship, Zeil didn’t even have a chance to make eye contact with anypony waiting for them before Princess Skystar approached him and hugged him tightly as she spoke, “Thanks again Sir Zeil… your advice is really helpful. And… I’m grateful for it.”
Blushing slightly Zeil replied, “Your welcome Skystar… and if you want you can just call me Zeil. Friends shouldn’t have to be formal with each other right?”
She stopped hugging him, “Couldn’t have said it better myself… Zeil.”

At that moment, the two looked to the rest of their party on the ship as each one was staring in confusion as Daring spoke, “Um… w-what did we miss?”
Skystar smile, “Oh… nothing, I just had a small crisis that I needed help with and Si- I mean Zeil here gave me some advice that helped.”
The princess stepped away from Zeil and started approaching Jim as Zeil nodded, “Yep, even a princess needs advice from time to time.”
As Princess Skystar approached Jim, she smiled, “Yea… and thanks to his advice… I feel confident in doing this… Jim… hold out your talon.”
Jim stood in confusion, “Wh-what?”
Seeing his hesitation Princess Skystar reached out and took his talon as she held it out for him, “It’s okay I have something for you.”
Holding his talon open, Princess Skystar placed a trinket in his palm before closing his claws around it and letting him go. Confused, Jim looked down at his talon and opened his fist as he saw a shard of the pearl sitting in his hand as he spoke, “Its… wait… wasn’t this General Arnold’s shard of the relic?”

The smiling monarch shook her head as she replied, “No… it’s yours. You’ve done more than earned it… and now… I’m going to teach you to transform… that is…” She looked to Zeil as she spoke, “If my knight will allow it?”
Zeil was confused, “Wait… you’re asking me for permission?”
Skystar smiled, “Well yea, with the general gone, technically a knight would be the next in command. So I’m asking you permission since, obviously you are the higher raked soldier here. I mean…” She looked at Daring Do and Silver, “No offence, but Daring is a writer, and Silver is a noble of a secret organization that officially didn’t exist.” She looked back, “So officially… you’re in charge of my team of bodyguards.”
Zeil could only chuckle at the logic as he smiled, “Well if that what you think... Then sure… I’ll allow you two to go out swimming… just keep up with the ship and check in every now and then. I doubt Captain Sail will leave you behind but I still don’t want to tell him that we have to turn around for you if you get lost.”
Princess Skystar smiled with glee, “Sure, we will stay close.”
She approached the railing of the tide as she held her hoof out to Jim, “You ready?”
Jim finished tying the small pearl shard around his neck as he replied as he took her talon, “Sure, how do I do this?”
Princess Skystar smiled as she replied, “Just clear your mind of any troubles, visualize something that brings you peace, then… imagine the power of that something changing your body to its whim. And allow the change to take place.”

Doing as he was suggested, Jim closed his eyes as he started to focus. Then without warning, he immediately turned into a sea pony as he fell to the deck in surprise. Confused Jim looked around in worry as the princess smiled, “Whoops, maybe we should have been in the water first… don’t worry I got you.” With that said, the princess reached down as she helped pick up Jim from the deck and struggled to place him on the railing before rolling him off the ship like a beached sea creature. As Jim fell into the water, Princess Skystar jumped in behind him as Zeil could only laugh at the humor in the moment. As the two sea pony disguised hippogriff vanished into the waves, Zeil leaned onto the railing of the ship and looked into the sea as Silver spoke, “Be honest Sir Zeil… what did you tell the princess? She seems a lot more cheery then before.”
Zeil shook his head, “To be honest I don’t tell her anything she couldn’t figure out on her own. All I did was remind her of what she valued, and it gave her the confidence to jump ship with a stallion that she is in love with.”
Silver yawned as she replied, “Well whatever you told her, it worked. Anyways, I think I’m going to get some rest. My night shift last night lasted a little longer than expected and if I’m not needed, I’m gonna get some sleep.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Sure… we can take it from here.”
Silver smiled, “I wasn’t asking your permission… but I’ll accept it either way. After seeing you in action yesterday, I think I discovered some respect for you after all… just don’t do anything to ruin it.”

Zeil nodded in agreement as Silver trotted to the stairs and started going below deck to rest. After she was gone Daring trotted to the railing as she leaned on it and looked into the water below. As she looked down into the waves, Daring spoke, “Zeil… I… um… I wanted to thank you.” She looked at him, “For yesterday I mean. If you hadn’t jumped in after me… I would have been swept away by the waves.”
Zeil smiled, “It’s not a big deal… I wasn’t going to le-“
She interrupted, “It is a big deal… when I fell from the crow’s nest you reflexively jumped off the ship with no regard for your own safety and dove down after me… I mean… what if the current was too strong for you to swim through? You would have drowned with me.”
Zeil shook his head, “Not as a sea pony I wouldn’t have. But you are right… if the current was too strong for me to fight… then I may have not been able to save you at all.”
She spoke with concern, “Then why risk it? Why did you do that?”
Zeil chuckled a bit, “You’re asking me why I jumped overboard to save a friend from danger?”
Daring shook her head as she stepped closer, “No it’s just, I wanted to know if… if there was more to it… if... um…”

Realizing the enthusiasm behind her question, Daring Do stepped back and looked over the railing to hid her face as Zeil could feel her emotions as he replied, “You mean… if there was more to it… or better… more to us… right?”
Daring looked down to hide her blushing face as Zeil braced himself with a sigh, “Daring… I’m a changeling so… it’s been a little obvious that recently you’ve developed feelings for me… it’s flattering… it really is.”
Daring replied, “There is a but in there isn’t there?”
Zeil nodded, “But… you know that… I have been traveling for years now… to return to Zecora. To the mare that I’m actually in love with. So… I’m sorry, but we… we can’t be. I just don’t feel that way about you.”
Although it hurt to hear, Daring Do had always expected this response as she nodded, “I know… but… it doesn’t change the way I feel. And the way you saved me yesterday… it… it just makes it hurt more. I just wish… I wish I could have met you before… you know… before you fell in love with Zecora.”
Zeil shook his head as he looked out to the sea and replied with a depressed tone, “… No… you don’t. If you did… you wouldn’t want to be around me… nopony would want to be around me.”
Daring Do was confused, “What? But… why? You’re courageous, noble, honest, brave, an-“
“I tried to destroy Canterlot…”
Daring Do was shocked, “Wh-what?”
Seeing her shock Zeil sighed, “The reason Silver attacked me the other night… is because of who I am… or… who I used to be. I… wasn’t the way I am now. I was worse… fare worse.”
Daring Do shook her head, “I… I don’t believe that… I can’t believe that? You’re a knight, you saved hundreds in Lilith. Not to mention the king and queen of Spring Haven”

Zeil nodded as he braced himself with a sigh, “I guess… I’ll be honest with you since… I know I can trust you. I told you that I’ve been on a journey to get back to Equestria, but… I left out how I left Equestria in the first place… or why I’m determined to get back… and even though you overheard my explanation about the Wooden Pergola forest… even that is a lie. So… I guess I’ll start from beginning. From when… Queen Chrysalis asked me to infiltrate the Canterlot Royal Guard.”
From there, Daring Do stayed quiet as Zeil told his whole story. He told of his near fatal crash into the Everfree Forest into Zecora’s home. He told of how he fell for the enchantress and was wrongfully banished from Equestria after curing Shining Armor of his curse. He spoke of the many he met along the way, the ones who became good friends, the ones who taught him better skills, and even the friends he had lost along the way. Then he went into great detail to explain his encounter with the Mage of Zebrica. Of where they met, what he did, and even who he appeared to be after the crisis was said and done. He even went as far as to pull out the tome of the mage and the letter left behind to prove everything. A few minutes later, as his explanation ended, Daring stared at the Mage’s letter in deep thought as Zeil finished, “And… that what happened. That why I couldn’t be trusted before I met Zecora, and why Silver attacked me earlier. She was worried that I was the stallion I was before I was forced out of Equestria. She was worried, that I was still that monster.”

Daring Do tried to process the information as she Spoke, “The mage you met… are you sure that’s who he said he was?”
Zeil was curious, “Yea… you sound like you’ve heard of him.”
Daring lowered the letter in her hoof as she looked out to sea and spoke, “A few years ago, I did some research on some ruins to the far south that were recently discovered. It’s unknown how old the city truly is, but the date of the newest stones there was said to be about twenty nine hundred years. When I delve deeper into it, I found a large scale cover up that was hidden by all the titans. I never discovered what happened there, but when speaking to many unicorn who tried to test the sight for ancient magic residue, they discovered that whatever happened there happened in a span of only ten minutes and claimed more than five million lives.”

Zeil was shocked as he asked, “Five million? But… how?”
Daring replied, “The unicorn on site were able to detect what was commonly referred to as an apocalyptic event. Something so disastrous that it was a total genocide caused entirely by dark magic. When I looked into it, the only one I was able to discover that could know about magic of that scale would be a particular enchanter… The Mage of Zebrica. So I tracked him down to speak with him personally.”
Zeil replied with curiosity, “What did you find?”
Daring sighed in disappointment, “A brick wall, lining a brick wall, and leading right back to a brick wall. I went to Zebrica to track him down, but no zebra in any tribe would talk to me… I was even threatened to be imprisoned if I ever spoke of him again. No matter where I went, no zebra would even acknowledge me at the mere mention of the mage. It was as if they wanted me to have nothing to do with him.”

Zeil nodded, “The zebra I met said that speaking of the Mage of Zebrica was taboo and could lead to hostility. Maybe this is what he meant.”
Daring nodded, “Yea, but it only got stranger from there. I came across somezebra from outside the tribes who said I was wasting my time. That the mage was dead and his successor failed in his training.”
Zeil nodded, “Xemnes the pony responsible for the Pergola Village said something like that. He mentioned that he thought the mage was dead. Maybe that’s what he meant”
Daring shook her head, “He is dead. The last true mage died of old age about fifty years ago, while his successor was killed in the final trial of his training almost thirty years ago. But he didn’t say how, or what the training was. All subjects on the mage are hidden, forbidden, or completely unknown.”

Zeil thought to himself, “Well… I guess I’ll ask myself… if… I decide to ever go to Zebrica in the future.”
Daring was surprised, “So, after all that, you’re not going to Zebrica?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I have to get back to Zecora. She is my number one priority for now. Maybe after I tell her the truth I may go to Zebrica and asked about it then, but… that assuming the mage I spoke to was the real deal. I… still don’t know if I even believe him or not.”
Daring looked at the letter and reread a portion of it as she recited the words out loud, “Travel west, Till you reach a city of ruins, there you will meet with an adventurer who will assist you on you journey to the coast. Once at the coast, you will board a ship, and there… you will have to make a grave decision. To continue west to Equestria, or to journey south to Zebrica. This seems too accurate to be a coincidence… and… To be honest, I think I know this Chief Basarum too. I tried to meet him when I was doing research on the mage… but he wouldn’t see me. He has a deep distrust in outsiders, so he refused my offer for an audience.”

Zeil thought to himself as he asked, “Whatever his reason… I have to keep to my journey. Zecora is waiting so I need to get back as soon as possible.”
Daring didn’t respond, instead she stayed trapped in thought as Zeil noticed her silence, “Daring?”
The explorer replied, “I want to say that you should go to Zebrica. If this Mage is the real thing, then this is a risk you shouldn’t ignore.”
Zeil could tell that there was more, “But?...”
Daring continued, “But this whole mage thing… it’s not something to take lightly. When I was doing my research I saw that the mage has been a significant part of history for almost a millennia… but not always in the best of ways. Some storied say that he used dark magic to save many lives… but others… well, lets just say, I never heard of a single zebra toppling an entire kingdom before… and the mage has done it many times… not just once.”

Zeil thought about it for a few more seconds before replying, “All the more reason I should return to Zecora. This old coot may have been powerful, and he probably was the mage. But… no matter how he looked or the photo he showed me or even how much he knew about me. I don’t think he was me… maybe he used a spell to read my mind while I was unconscious. Maybe he was following me, I don’t know… but whatever he says… I can’t stray from my path. If I say away from Zecora any longer… she may never accept me.”
Daring smiled as she mumbled, “A stallion traveling to the ends of the earth… Isn’t a mare alive who would ignore devotion like that.”
Not hearing her clearly, Zeil replied, “What was that?”
Daring shook her head as she put her hoof on his shoulder, “I said, good for you, stick to your goals and try not to worry too much. If he is you and what he says is true then time will loop on itself and you will make it to Zebrica eventually.”
Zeil thought to himself, “…Maybe.”
Daring smiled as she gave back the letter and turned to leave, “Whatever happens, just know that I’m rooting for you bud. Go get your mare back. And if ya don’t…” she winked, “I’ll be available.”
Zeil smiled, “taking lessons on flirting from Silver now?”
Daring Smiled, “No, just reminding you that I don’t give up that easily.”

That said Daring Do trotted away towards the upper deck as Zeil smiled and mumbled, “Daring Do living up to her name.” he looked out to sea as his expression sank, “Even through her obvious pain.”
After that was said Zeil looked out to the sea to look for the princess and her companion as Daring trotted up the steps to the main deck and stood next to Captain Sail who was looking over his ship. As she stood in silence she sighed as the captain spoke first, “So… ya told him did ya?”
She nodded, “Yea… it’s that obvious?”
The wise captain nodded, “I’ve known you since you were knee high to a barrel. That and… nopony can hide a broken heart from one with the same.”
She nodded as she held back her tears, “He turned me down… I expected it… and even braced myself for it… but… it still hurt.”
Captain Sail nodded, “It always does lass. Luckily since he is still here, and you two are in good terms, the pain can heal with time.”
Daring nodded as she smiled, and looked at Zeil from afar, “Ya know… I kinda like him more now. To be so determined to travel to the ends of the world for one mare… And… she doesn’t even know he is a changeling.”
Captain Sail adjusted his hat as he started trotting towards the stairs leading to the lower deck, “If it’s who I think it is… she knows lass. That young mare is far too wise to be fooled by anypony… even a changeling who is skilled enough to be called a knight.”
Daring was surprised, “Wait… do you know her?”
Captain Sail smiled with confidence, but didn’t reply as he trotted down the stairs to the main deck before entering his cabin and closing the door behind him.

BK8/Ch5 The Future Mage of Zebrica

Book 8 / Chapter 5
The Future Mage of Zebrica
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 4)

A cold wind blew as Zeil traveled up the darkening pathway that seemed to weave through the thick forest. As he pressed on, he started to recognize the path as he mumbled, “Wait… is this?”
Excited, Zeil started running up the trail as fast as he could as the trail became more and more familiar with each passing step. As he continued it wasn’t long till he approached the end of the trail which led to a high cliff that overlooked the surrounding forest. Seeing Canterlot in the distance Zeil smiled, “It is… I’m back… I’m ho-”
Before he could finish, Zeil paused as he looked to the edge of the cliff to see something he wasn’t expecting. Standing at the very edge of the cliff was a silhouette cascaded in shadow by the twilight of the setting sun. Though the twilight made it too hard to see the mare clearly, Zeil immediately know who it was as he spoke, “Zecora.”
With the apparition looking out at the distant city, Zeil braced himself as he started to speak to the mare, “Zecora? I’m he-”
Before he could finish, Zeil realized something that froze him in place. As he spoke to the silhouette, he realized that the zebra he was speaking to didn’t share the aura she was supposed to have. The mare instead held an aura of an earth pony… and to make it worse, the emotions she was feeling was one that was familiar to Zeil… one of unbearable pain and suffering. As he felt this, Zeil could only think of one place he felt this exact aura… from the undead griffin at the Wooden Pergola Forest.

As Zeil looked at the mare closer, the twilight of the setting sun faded into night as the stripes on the zebra started to become more noticeable and along with those stripes, Zeil could see deep cuts and wounds on her as he took as step back in fear, “N-no… not here… not her… this… this can’t be happening.”
Hearing him, Zecora slowly turned her head to look at Zeil out the corner of her glowing ruby red eyes as this only confirmed his greatest fear, “But… we stopped them. We stopped this… this can’t be true…”
As that was mumbled the undead mare turned to Zeil as she charged while bearing her teeth like a vicious animal. Seeing the mare he loved charging at him with murderous intent, Zeil shook his head in disbelief, “No I… I came all this way… and… I still lo-”
Before he could finish, Zecora approached him as she immediately jerked his head to the side before digging her teeth into his neck as Zeil immediately opened his eyes and sat up in his hammock while breathing deeply in a cold sweat.

With his heart racing, Zeil looked through the room of beds, hammocks, and sleeping sailors as he tried to calm his deep breathing from the terrifying nightmare he had just awoken from. With the creaking of the Bloody Tide the only sounds herd amongst the lifeless crew, Zeil decided to clear his mind as he climbed out of his hammock and made his way through the crew’s quarters and up to the higher decks. As Zeil reached the main deck of the Bloody Tide, the few sailors working the night shift looked his way for a brief moment, however as they saw who it was, they each went back to work as they tightened cargo lines, swabbed the deck, and looked out to sea for any threats or obstacles on their course. With attention on him fleeting, Zeil trotted to the starboard rails as he looked out to the darkness of the night and mumbled, “It was only a dream… she is fine… she’s safe… she has to be.” He turned to the center of the ship and began pacing, “That’s right… the mage killed those things at the forest. None of them got away.” After a few steps, Zeil turned back to the railing as he continued his pace and chuckled, “Maybe I’m just stressed. This is the first time I’ve been on any form of transportation since my journey began so maybe this is just my mind trying to get used to the peace if travel. Why else would I have a dream of her being in danger? I just need t-”
“Who’s in danger?”

At that moment, Zeil looked up and saw a set of green nocturnal eyes glowing as they looked in his direction as the unexpected surprised caused him to jump back, “Whoa!”
After jumping back in surprise, Zeil realized that the eyes he was looking at were Silver’s as the cloaked bat pony hung upside-down from a Jacob’s ladder as she mumbled, “Oh, sorry did I scare you?”
Zeil looked up to where she was hanging from as he spoke, “Silver? What are you doing here? And… how are you doing that?”
Still hanging upside-down, Silver replied, “Well… I’m a bat pony… and… I’m a bat pony. Remember? I got the night shift.”
Realizing how silly his question was, he nodded, “Oh…”
Silver replied, “So… what was that you were saying about a dream? Of somepony in danger?”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… well… it’s a little personal.”
Silver nodded, “Okay… it wasn’t Daring then was it?”
Zeil shook his head, “N-no…”
Silver smiled, “Oh, I don’t care then.”
Zeil gave her a dull look, “Wow… thanks for the advice… really moving.”

At that moment a voice called over the deck, “Sir Zeil?”
Confused Zeil looked towards the captain’s cabin as he saw Captain Sail standing outside his room as he spoke, “A word if you please?”
That said, Captain Sail entered his cabin and left the door open as Silver shrugged her shoulders, “Well, I guess the captain wants to speak with you… good luck with that.”
Without letting Zeil reply, Silver pulled herself back up to the Jacob’s ladder as she climbed into the rigging to continue her work. Confused, Zeil preceded to trot to Captain Sail’s cabin as he entered the room and closed the door behind him. As soon as Zeil was in the room he looked to Captain Sail who was trotting around his desk as Zeil spoke, “Yes captain? You needed to see me?”
Captain Sail sat at his desk and smiled, “Aye… I was doing some late work when I heard ya yell on deck and since I didn’t get the chance to tell you today, I thought now is as good as any.”
Zeil was curious, “Tell me what?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I want to thank you personally for your actions during the fight yesterday.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “The princess was in danger, I only did my job to protect her and the ship.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “I ain’t talking ‘bout that lad, I’m talking about how you disregarded your own safety and jumped into a rough sea to save Miss Do.”
“I saw Daring in trouble, so… I saved her. I think she would have done the same if I were in the same boat… no pun intended.”

Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Aye… either way… you have my thanks, and should you ever need it. You are owed a debt from Captain Sail.”
Zeil shook his head, “That’s not nessisary captain, as I said I on-“
The captain Shook his head, “That’s not negotiable lad, Captain Sail is a stallion of honor, and no matter the situation, he pays his debts should it be needed. After all, Miss Do is family to my quartermaster and one of few whom I also consider family.”
Zeil nodded, “Well… thanks I’ll remember that later.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And I’ll remember how you gently shot her down today.”
Zeil’s felt a little embarrassed as he replied, “Oh… she told you that?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “She didn’t have to lad, I may be an old sea captain, but even I know a mare’s heart, or her expression when it’s broken. You should count yourself lucky, if she had broken out in tears, I probably would have tossed ya into the sea.”
As that was said, Captain Sail chuckled as if it were a joke even though Zeil would take this as a serious comment, before replying with a fake smiled, “Right… well… I tried my best to let her down easy.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Of course ya did lad, it’s obvious where your loyalty lies. It’s in that lass waitin’ for ya in Equestria ain’t it?

Zeil nodded as he continued the discussion with a less than enthusiastic reply, “Yes it is…”
Seeing this Captain Sail decided to reply with a question, “And how is Miss Zecora? Farin’ well is she, since she was able to woo a stallion of your caliber.”
Zeil smiled, “Well sh- wait… how do you know Zeco-”
Captain Sail chuckled, “How do ya think the lass got to Equestria to begin with? Quite the distance for a mare to swim aye?”
Captain Sail continued to laugh as Zeil replied, “So… you took her to Equestria?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye I did… ‘bout ten, fifteen years ago. She was an interesting lass. So motivated to step into the unknown. Said something about fulfilling an ancestor’s whim. But since zebra are always of a mystic sort, I felt it best to ask as few questions as needed. Her ferry was paid for, so no need to question it. Either way, she was a delight to have aboard. Her rhymes made sea shanties much more entertainin’.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Yea… I can see that.”
Still questioning Captain Sail spoke, “So… we know that one course of yours is to Equestria back to your lass… but, what is your other. Where else do you intend to go?”

Zeil gave Captain Sail a curious look as the captain continued, “I told ya lad, I know you intend to go to more than one place… so why not tell me? It be your business, but it might be a concern if it’s questioning your return to a mare like Miss Zecora.”
Zeil didn’t want to reply at first, but since the nightmare was still on his mind, he replied, “I want to go back to Zecora… if… if I go anywhere else, it will feel like I’m betraying her. And… I’ve been on this ship long enough to know your opinion on betrayal.”
Captain Sail smiled, “It’s not betrayal I don’t like lad… it’s a lack of loyalty. For one to pledge themselves to a decision then to turn a blind eye to their pledge when dealt with something as feeble as personal safety… that is what I dislike. Then again… there is a difference between being traitorous and being disloyal. Sometimes the most loyal action… is in a since… treason.”
Zeil shook his head in confusion, “I… don’t follow?”
Captain Sail nodded as he sighed, “You recall what Arnold said to me before I… did him in? About Siren?”

Zeil nodded as he used caution in his reply, “Yea… he said something about… you killing her? I didn’t want to bring it up because it’s obvious that it’s a memory you’d rather forget.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… and its true. In the end… it was my order that ended her life. I sank her with her own ship. So in a since, I did betray her. But… what most don’t know that I did that because I was loyal. I was loyal to my father’s memory, and to her last request. She was injured and we all knew she wouldn’t be able to hold on till we reached port, so… by her order… I killed her.”
Zeil looked down in sadness as he replied, “I guess that’s loyalty… in its truest form.”
Captain Sail nodded, “So with my loyalty, I stayed true to my decision. But where prey tell is your loyalty straying you to? Where is it that your mind tried to drag you too that your heart refuses to go?”
Zeil sighed to brace himself as he replied, “Zebrica… I was told… to find some zebra there before I go back to Equestria.”
Captain Sail could only chuckles as he replied, “Is that right? Interesting… and this one who told you to do this… who is he? Or would it be better to keep that to yourself?”
Zeil didn’t reply instead he looked down in disappointment as Captain Sail nodded, “Ah… to yourself… fair enough.”

Captain Sail stood from his desk and looked into the darkness out the window behind him as he mumbled to himself, “Zebrica… hmm…” he turned back, “Lad… might I ask, are you a believer of fate?”
Zeil was confused, “Fate?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… fate… When Daring told us the story of how she met ya, she said that you awoke in the ruins of a city after being trapped there for a year. I find it funny, that on the same day at the same time that Miss Do happened to be investigating said city you happened to return from your little trip through time. And to add to it, she just so happened to know of a ship traveling to the same place you are going. Then as you board said ship that very vessel captained by a somewhat charming stallion such as myself happened to be on its way not only to the place ya want to go… but also a place that if I should say, Fate seems to be guiding you. Seems quite the coincidence to be happening within this short of time frame since even one hour after returning from that ruined city would have set ya on a completely different path.”

Zeil didn’t reply, instead he only stood in deep thought as Captain Sail sighed as he spoke, “S’pose… fate is funny like that… One day, it may seem as if you have full control on your present and future… then… it pulls the fog over your horizon and leads ya forcefully in a course you didn’t expect… nor want.”
Curious Zeil could sense a deepening sadness come over Captain Sail as he replied, “You’re talking about Siren… right?”
Captain Sail nodded as he gazed over the chest containing the hippogriff relic in the corner of the room as he replied, “Siren… was Iron Hoof…The very pirate that killed my father and drove me to piracy.”
Zeil was surprised, “She killed your father?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Well… no… that was her father, she just inherited the title once he was done in by a mutineer who wanted the title for himself. Afterword’s, I help her kill that mutineer, then the title became hers. And so… as Siren said herself… I was the one meant to kill her. As if fate had it planed from the very start. And to add insult to injury, Siren was charged with an important task. One that she carried out to her dying day.” He looked at the chest in the corner of the room, “To protect that blasted relic.”
Zeil looked over at the chest, “You mean… the one in that chest?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… the very one. Seems fate is cruel like that… it’s been over twenty years since I even laid eyes on that wretched thing. The last time was the day I killed Siren, and yet… here it is… as if to mock me. And still I accepted it here. Rather than tossing it overboard like I’ve wanted to do since I was told what it was… I tolerate it simply because I feel fate requires me to do so.” Captain Sail looks at Zeil with a curious gaze, “I wonder… will you see what fate requires of you? And if so? Will you follow its lead… or fight it to the bitter end?”

Once again, Zeil’s silence was his only answer as Captain Sail saw his reaction and nodded, “S’pose… it’s a little late for trivial trivia aye?”
Taking this as a dismissal, Zeil replied, “Right… well… I’ll leave you to it then Captain. Good night.”
As Zeil turned to the cabin doors and opened them to leave Captain Sail spoke up, “Take this advice lad… Fate isn’t something to trifle with… whether you believe it or not… what is meant to happen will happen. Just… be careful… and remember. Loyalty doesn’t always mean taking the most loyal path. Zecora knows this… and as long as you know what path you should take, she will meet you at its end. Sooner… or later.”
Though Zeil didn’t reply, he still nodded in understanding as he left the room, closed the cabin door behind him and preceded below deck to get some rest.

The next morning, Zeil woke to a crash on the deck above as he heard Pinpoint yelling, “Be easy with that ya darn fool! That cargo is fragile!”
After being woken by the crash, Zeil sat up in his hammock and looked around to see that the crew’s quarters were completely empty. Confused as to why he wasn’t woken earlier, Zeil put on his cloak and trotted up to the higher deck as he saw a number of sailors working to carful guide crates through the cargo hatches on the main deck and move them to the pier with the port crane. As the cargo was being moved, Captain Sail was standing next to a dock worker as Zeil approached while the captain was speaking, “It’s all here and unharmed. If ya feel you should look through it, be my guest.”
The zebra harbormaster replied, “No need captain, if history has proven anything it’s that you’re a sailor of your word. The herbalists of the Western Tribes will make good use of these ingredients. Thanks to you these the medicines they make will help many zebra.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Good to hear, if they need help exporting their supply cross the sea, just say the word. It’s always a pleasure to help the zebra of this nation.”

Nodding in agreement, the local zebra trotted down the gangplank to the dock as Captain Sail saw Zeil approaching as he smiled, “Well good morning to ya Sir Zeil, if your wonderin’, I told the crew to let ya sleep in a bit since I held you up last night.”
Zeil nodded, “Um… thanks… but… didn’t you need any help unloading the cargo?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Your job is to protect the princess lad, no need to worry yourself over my crew’s work. By the way… I’ll thank ya to keep our discussion last night between us. Your business be your own after all.”
Zeil nodded, “Right… thanks for the advice by the way.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… No worries lad, but ya might want to make your decision quickly. Once the cargo is offloaded, we intent to make way.”
With no concern in hearing a reply, Captain Sail trotted away as Zeil tried to reply, “But… I already made my dec-”

As Zeil tried to reply he was interrupted as Daring Do trotted behind him and pat him on his back, “Sir Zeil, bout time you got up… and… your still here… that’s… that’s great.”
Noticing her change in tone, Zeil gave Daring a confused look, “Doesn’t sound great… by that tone, I’d say you were disappointed.”
Daring waved her hoof in defense, “Oh no, no, I was just thinking that after you and the captain had your little powwow last night, I’d though he would have changed your mind. That all.”
Zeil gave her a suspicious look, “What? How do you know abo-“
As he asked his question, his answer came to him in the form of a bat pony as Silver approached, “Morning Zeil, sleep well?”
Zeil gave her a dulled look, “Silver… did you tell Daring about what happened last night?”
Silver looked at Daring do the back at Zeil as she replied, “What? When the captain of a ship called you in his quarters by name it’s not like I’m going to keep that to myself. Besides the conversation didn’t sound that important to me.”

Zeil was now annoyed, “Wait… you mean you listened in too?”
Silver shrugged her shoulders, “The night shift is boring. You can’t blame me for centering my attention onto the only interesting event of the whole night.”
Zeil sighed in irritation as he rubbed his head while replying, “Okay… what did you hear?”
Silver replied, “Nothing much really, something about how Captain Sail knows Zecora, something to do with you wanting to go to both Zebrica and Equestria, and then… something involving fate? I didn’t catch much on that though, Captain Sail wasn’t speaking very loud on that subject so I couldn’t hear much through the doors.”
Zeil continued giving Silver an unamused look as Daring spoke up, “Either way… even after speaking with Captain Sail, your choosing to go back to Equestria? What about… fate?”
Zeil was surprised, “Really? I didn’t think an archeologist would believe in fate.”

Daring shook her head, “I may be and archeologist but… well…” she sighed, “I’ve been in many tombs and with all my studies of ancient languages, many of those tombs had stories of those buried there. Some simple, some tragic, but all stories tell of how fate led the tombs resident to either an honorable death or a tragic story. At times, I wonder if fate had this plan for them. And… if somepony had told them of their fate before… would they have changed it, if given the opportunity. I just thought you were given that same opportunity, so…”
Zeil shook his head, “Daring, I told you I have to get back to Zecora… there isn’t an-”
Before he could finish, Captain Sail trotted back up the gangplank as he called, “All ashore that’s goin’ ashore! Make ready lads, bout time we set our course for Equestria!” the captain looked to Zeil, “Hope ya made your choice lad… it’s now or never.”

With that Captain Sail trotted off towards the aftcastle as Daring spoke before following, “Zeil… just… don’t make any decisions you’ll regret. That’s all I’m saying.”
As Daring trotted away, Zeil sighed in irritation as Silver gave him a confused look, “I don’t know what’s going on, and it isn’t my business. But… it sounds like you have a tough decision to make.”
Zeil rubbed his head as he looked at the sailors who were raising the gangplank as he replied, “I already made my decision… I can’t stay here… if I do, it’s no better then turning my back on Zecora. Fate or not. I can’t betray her like that.”
Silver thought to herself for a second as Pinpoint called over the ship, “Prepare to cast off! Lower main sail and take her out slow!”
As that was called Silver looked at Pinpoint then back to Zeil as she saw him leaning on the rails watching with a depressed expression as the Bloody Tide slowly listed away from the pier. Seeing this Silver sighed as she leaned against the rail next to him and spoke, “You know… I had to make this choice before. Growing up, I always thought my mother was dead. And the day I discovered that she wasn’t… she asked me to take up the reaper’s scythe and lead an army of assassins who protected the kingdom under the shadow of the crown. She said it was my fate… but… I decided that it wasn’t for me and… left.”

Though he heard her clearly Zeil didn’t reply as she spoke with a depressed tone, “After that… my brother discovered where The Cutter’s hideout was… and killed my mother with an army of bat ponies all with the intent of taking over the cutters and preparing a coup-d’état on the kingdom in the name of us bat ponies. After that… I had no choice but to take up her scythe and fight back. I killed him, but not after losing my mother and endangering my friends. Back then, we bat ponies were second class citizens and I was afraid his actions would put us even lower on the totem pole… but it was in fact the opposite. It was my actions that finally broke the barrier between the surface ponies and the bat ponies.” She smiled, “In a way… it was my fate to finally make Equestria equal for all ponies… as it was meant to be from the very start.”
Zeil nodded as the end of the pier passed by as he replied, “So… that was your fate?”
Silver smiled, “Who knows… but if anything… I can definitely say that the world is a better place for it. Isn’t that what we want for those we love?” She turned to trot away then paused, “Oh… and how’s that for advice? More moving then last night right?”
Knowing she won, Silver smiled as she continued trotting away from Zeil as a few more seconds passed before Zeil hung his head and sighed, “Fine… if a friend, an assassin, and a ship captain says so… then who am I to challenge fate.” He looked back up, “Guess this has to be done then.”

As that was said, Zeil stepped away from the railing of the ship and started sprinting from where he was as he rushed down the ship railing towards the back of the ship. With haste, Zeil sprinted passed Daring and Captain Sail as the two smiled as he passed. Nodding back, Zeil continued his full-fledged sprint as he neared the steps to the upper deck and immediately angled his sprint towards the portside railing before using all the momentum he had to jump from the Bloody Tide towards the pier below. As the airborne changeling flew through the air, Zeil could only brace himself before crashing onto the end of the pier and rolling a few feet, stopping himself just as his hind hooved were thrown from the very end of the pier leaving him hanging there over the water below. As Zeil hung from the end of the pier, a few dockworkers rushed to him as they helped him up with the harbormaster speaking, “Are you daft or somthin’ ya could have killed yourself.”
Zeil chuckled at the concerned zebra as he replied, “Sorry… last minute change of plan, turns out I needed to be here after all.”
The dockworker nodded, “Well… looks like you’re here now brother, so… Welcome to Zebrica. I hope you didn’t forget anything aboard the Bloody Tide.”

As that was said, Zeil immediately felt nervous as he looked at the cloak covering his body as he mumbled, “No… my saddlebag… the Tome of the Ma-“
Before he could finish, Zeil felt a slight gust of wind as he turned around and saw both Jim and Princess Skystar hovering just off the pier as Jim held up Zeil’s saddlebag and spoke, “Sir Zeil, I think your forgot something.”
That said, the male hippogriff tossed the saddlebag to Zeil as he caught it and smiled, “Thanks, how di-“
Princess Skystar smiled, “You can thank Captain Sail. He told us that you may leave without packing your things so we decided to it for you just in case.”
Zeil nodded as he smiled, “He really is the best captain in the sea isn’t he?”
Jim nodded, “He is the best sailor there is… sea or sky. Speaking of which, he wanted me to let you know that even if you stay, he intends on getting you to Equestria whether it be now, or later. So if you ever need a ride, just mention his name at any shady bar in any port. He says that if there is a sailor worth their brass in that place, they owe him a debt, and they will gladly ferry you back to your loved one.”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “thanks… tell him I’ll take him up on that offer.”
Jim nodded as he reached out and took Princess Skystar’s talon, “Oh and… thanks again Sir Zeil, for everything. Your advice, helped us both out.”
Princess Skystar added, “You are a friend to the Hippogriff Kingdoms and if you ever need anything, let me know. I can put in a good word with mom.”
Zeil smiled, “So you two figured it out then?”
The two lovers looked at each other as Jim nodded, “We figured out enough. Till then, we will just enjoy our time together. After all, it is the respectable advice from a noble knight.”
Zeil nodded, “I think you two will be fine. Vary rarely do I see a couple who connect as well as you two.”

As the two hippogriff turned to fly back to the sailing Bloody Tide, Jim nodded, “Thanks, we will keep that in mind.”
As they flew away Zeil called, “And tell Daring and Silver thanks for me too!”
The two hippogriff nodded as they flew back to the Bloody Tide leaving Zeil to stand and watch the ship and its crew shrink slowly in the distance.”
As the ship left the dockworker asked, “So brother… Sir Zeil is your name? You’re not hurt are you from that tumble you took?”
Zeil turned to the dock worker as he shook his head, “Oh… no I’m fine. A little sore, but I’ll get over it.”
The harbormaster nodded, “Good… so… is there anything you need brother Zeil?”
Zeil checked his saddlebag to see that the Mage’s book was there before putting it on and replying, “Yes… do you know where I can buy a map? I need to begin traveling to the Northern Tribes of Zebrica.”

Back on the Bloody Tide, Captain Sail, Daring Do, Pinpoint and Silver were watching the port from the upper deck as Daring Do spoke, “Looks like Sir Zeil didn’t defy fate after all.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… if I were to quote him, he betrayed Zecora. But… I’m sure she will find it in her heart to forgive him.”
Silver smiled in a joking manner, “you gonna fodder him when you see him again Captain?”
Captain Sail replied, “I only fodder those who betray their loyalty… Perhaps this is a betrayal that I can look passed… just this once.”
Silver chucked at his words before looking at Daring, “You okay Dazzy?”
Daring nodded, “I’m a little disappointed, I don’t know if I’ll ever find a stallion like that again.”
Silver smiled as she leaned against her, “Ya know… if ya don’t, then maybe it’s a mare you’re looking for… right?”
Daring smiled as she shook her head, “If I were looking for a mare, then I found one. But I don’t think Dash is into mares.”
Silver gave her a confused look, “Wait… seriously?”
As the two turned and trotted away from the aft railings bickering at the joke Daring Do just made, Pinpoint and Captain Sail continued watching the port list away as Pinpoint smiled, “The lad finally plotted his own course. Good for him.”
Captain Sail nodded, “True… but I wonder… will they be safe seas… or are there rough waters ahead for our changeling friend.”

Bk9/Ch1 The Tribe, The Chief, and His Wife

Book 9 / Chapter 1
The Tribe, The Chief, and his Wife
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 10)

The sun shined overhead as Zeil stopped in his tracks and sat down as he pulled out a map and looked for the road he was supposed to be on. Zeil looked at the map for a few seconds before lowering it, as he looked ahead at the seemingly endless savanna, looked down at the dirt he was standing on, then panning his eyes back towards the way he just came before sighing in disappointment, “No road… now path… not even a sign…” He shielded his eyes as he looked towards the sun above, “Noon… I can't even tell which direction is north from here.”
Sighing in annoyance, Zeil planted the map on the ground and tried to retracing his path on it as he mumbled, “When was the last time I know I was on the road… and… why is the dirt on the road just as rough and texturized as the dirt off the road… did it have plants growing there… or was that even the road?”

As he mumbled to himself in irritation, his thoughts were soon broken when he heard a loud roar echo from nearby. As Zeil looked in the direction of the ferocious roar, he started to feel the aura of others in that direction. One was of a Zebra who most likely was very young, whilst the other was of some kind of feral feline. As Zeil looked in the direction of the aura, he could only see a long stretch of empty savanna but he could tell that there must be more then what he saw, since he could easily feel the aura of the foal and predator was much closer then what he could see. Concerned for the danger the foal was in, Zeil started rushing towards the aura as fast as he could while paying close attention the aura’s direction and distance. As Zeil ran closer, he soon saw the there was a ravine hidden on the horizon as he quickly stopped as he saw a young filly zebra running through the ravine while being chased by a leopard. The young zebra warrior seemed like any other zebra Zeil had seen, around her neck were a series of rings that Zeil recognized as a normal accessory that even Zecora wore. The main difference between this filly and Zecora was the strap across her torso that allowed the young filly to holster the metal blade spear that was currently on her back. As the filly ran from the predator, Zeil started following the ridge of the ravine in the same direction as he tried looking for a way down to help the young filly.

As Zeil ran along the steep ridge, the filly continued running for her life as soon two more leopards slid down the opposite side of the ravine and joined the first as the filly found herself being chased now by three of the deadly predators. As Zeil followed, he could tell that the perusing predators weren’t just chasing the filly, they were leading her into a trap. Ahead of the filly stood in wait two more of the dangerous felines as the filly soon saw her options as she slid to a stop, drew her spear, and readied herself for a fight. Stopping just up the steep ravine, Zeil quickly looked for a path down as the three perusing leopards stopped in their tracks and watched the fully in caution. Though Zeil could tell that the way the filly was holding her spear showed that she had some sort of training, it was still obvious that even if she were much older, her chances of surviving this attack were still zero. Determined, the young zebra readier her spear towards the three original pursuers as she yelled, “Njoo!”
The center leopard only eyed the filly as the two to the side looked towards the center signifying that this one was the pride leader. Seeing this, Zeil knew what was about to happen as he decided to take his chances and tried sliding down the steep ravine wall as carefully and as fast as he could.

When the filly saw little reaction in the pride, she turned to the two leopards blocking her path as she yelled again, “Nikasema NJOO!!!”
The two blocking leopard didn’t respond, instead they continued holding their ground, as the pack leader took advantage of the mare’s turned back as he alone started charging toward the filly with the intention to take her down with one strike. Hearing the charging feline approach, the filly turned back to look at the approaching leader, but found that she didn’t have any time to react to the attack. Luckily just as the approaching leopard pounced towards the filly, Zeil reached the bottom of the ravine as he charged forward and tackled the airborne predator as his hit threw the pride leader off his path and against the wall of the ravine.
Surprised by his interruption, the filly lowered her spear as she spoke, “Nini?”

After hitting the large jungle cat out of the way, Zeil stood between the filly and two of the original pursuers as he pulled a small dagger from his saddlebag and readied himself as he spoke, “You want her… you go through me!”
Just as that was said, Zeil immediately realized the danger he was in as he started to feel nervous. He didn’t know why he pulled himself into this situation, but he knew that even though he was probably stronger then the filly was at fighting, he still didn’t have the strength to win against five leopards, let alone getting them both out alive. But since he knew he was already in too deep to turn back, he still glared at the pride and readied his stance. At first Zeil placed most of his focus in trying to find an escape route for himself and the filly, however as he did he felt something odd. The vicious pride of leopards didn’t have the emotions of a pack of hunting beasts, or even an angry pride. The emotions they felt when they looked at Zeil, was fear. Though they each hid it well in their ferocious expressions, it was no denying it. The pack of leopards were terrified as if a more ferocious beast had entered the equation. This was confirmed when the four leopards still standing took a step back from their prey as the pack leader quickly picked himself up rushed back to the two he approach with and stared down Zeil in anger.

With the alpha obviously up and ready to fight, Zeil glared at the pack lead as he spoke, “Well?... what are you waiting for?”
As the predator saw Zeil shifting to a more offensive stance, the alpha leopard didn’t attack, instead he only hissed at Zeil before turning back down the ravine and running away in haste. Seeing their pride leader retreat, the rest of the leopards followed suit as the two felines that started the chase turned and followed, as the two leopards blocking the path rushed around Zeil and the filly, passing the two, and continuing down the ravine to catch up to their fleeing pride. As soon as the pride of leopards were gone, Zeil sighed in relief as he spoke, “Well, that ended better then I though… for a second there I thought we were in trouble.”
As he turned to the filly, the young zebra raised her weapon as she spoke, “Jumbo?”
As he heard this Zeil smiled, “Oh… hello to you too… one second, I need to take something first.”

Zeil reached into his saddlebag and pulled out a translation potion however as soon as he pulled the cork on the vial, the filly stopped him as she spoke, “Wait… do… you understand these words?”
Zeil recorked the vial as he nodded, “Yes, I do. So you speak Ponish?”
The filly nodded, “Yes, the oracle, she teaches these words. I'm new to them but I understand.”
Zeil nodded, “Good that will make this easier.”
The filly holstered her spear on her back as she spoke, “You are brave warrior, and you have my thanks from me.”
Though her speech seemed broken Zeil understood as he smiled, “Your pretty brave yourself. Maybe, you can help me. I'm trying to find the Northern Tribes. Do you know how to get there?”
The filly gave him a curious look, “First, we exchange names.” She placed her hoof across her chest in pride, “I am called Kante… and what do they call you brother?”
Zeil smiled, “I am Zeil… it’s nice to meet you Kante.”
She lowered her hoof as she spoke, “You wish to go to the tribe? For what reason?”
Zeil nodded at her caution as he replied, “I need to speak with Chief Basarum.”
The filly hesitated before replying, “You seek the Chief… okay, I will show you to him… Come.”

With an almost demanding stance, the filly turned away from Zeil and began trotting through the ravine as Zeil followed closely while keeping his senses heightened in case the leopard were planning to ambush them. Lucky this didn’t happen as the filly led Zeil out of the ravine and across the Zebrican savannah. After about thirty minutes of traveling the two finally reached a large village that sat on the border of the arid savanna and a large cluster of vegetation with a tall pyramid like temple towering in the center of the Zebrican village. As the two entered the village, Zeil wasn’t surprised that every resident of the village was a zebra, however he was a little concerned that each and every one that saw him gave him a curious but distrusting look as Zeil decided to be cautious of his actions so he wouldn’t offend them. However it wasn’t long before Zeil and Kante were stopped by two warrior zebra wielding spears as one spoke, “Stop… Sister Kante? Who is this outsider you bring here?”
Kante replied, “A warrior from afar, he wishes to see Chief Basarum.”
The warrior gave Zeil an uninterested look as he replied, “You know as well as I the chief won't see him.”
Kante nodded as she hesitated before replying, “I owe him a debt and… the chief may need to pay it. He saved me in the hunting grounds. The leopard were on the hunt”
Confused the two warriors looked to Zeil, then to each other as the first one looked back and replied, “Await the chief at the temple. Only he can decide if you can be seen.”

Far off on the jungle side of the village, a zebra stallion and mare sat on a boulder that was buried in the center of a large patch of bleach white roses. The stallion wore a vibrant dashiki made entirely of glass, feather, and bone beads that were assorted in a green, orange, and red zig zag design that covered his chest but ended before it could hang down and obstruct his movement. The mare wore a small dashiki but hers sat under an assortment of rings similar to Zecora’s with crescent ring on her head with the opening visible on the center of her forehead. As they sat back to back deep in meditation, the mare sensed what was approaching as she smiled and spoke, “And so it begins.”
Although he heard her words, the stallion chose to ignore her as a few warriors approached the area with one speaking, “Chief Basarum, you a-”
The chief held out his hoof and interrupted, “Do not touch the Blood Roses!”
The approaching warrior stopped as he looked down just in time to see one of the bleach white roses within the path of his next step. Seeing this, the warrior stepped back as he spoke, “Chief… Sister Kante was in the hunting ground. She went against your words once again… but this time, the leopard were on the hunt.”
Concerned Chief Basarum opened his eyes as he stood in shock, “What?”
The mare smiled but held her meditative pose, “Troublesome little filly she is, but I suppose she is safe if they speak so calmly of her fate.”
Chief Basarum continued, “Is she alright?”
The warrior nodded as he replied, “She is chief, but she brou-”

Chief Basarum stepped off the boulder and trotted through the white roses casually without touching a single one as he spoke, “Send her to the temple, I will speak to her immediately.”
Though the warrior was surprised the chief wasn’t touching the roses with his steps, he put it to the back of his mind as he replied, “But Chief, she brought an outsider with her.”
Chief Basarum stopped in place that was centered amongst the roses as he spoke, “What? An outsider?”
The warrior replied, “Yes chief, he wishes to speak with you.”
The mare smiled, “And your answer dear husband?”
Still ignoring the mare, Chief Basarum replied, “Turn him away. You know I don’t talk to outsiders. Until he can provide a reason, I do not want him in my village.”
The mare opened one eye as she smiled, “And cue the plot twist?”
The warrior and chief continued to ignore the mare as the warrior replied, “But chief… he saved Sister Kante from the leopards. She says that he is owed a life debt.”
The mare chuckled, “Oh am I the only one who saw that coming?”
Annoyed by her commentary, chief Basarum turned to the mare and replied, “Zera? Do you have anything better to do?”
The mare opened her eyes as she rested her head on one of her hooves as she replied, “Oh no… this is my whole day plan. Even an oracle needs to be entertained on occasion.”

Though he was annoyed by her reply, Chief Basarum turned back to the warrior and replied to the earlier statement, “So… the outsider saved Sister Kante?”
The warrior nodded, “Yes chief, and he is asking to see you by name.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself for a few second before turning back to the mare, “Zera, what do you make of this outsider? What is his place in time to come?”
The mare stopped resting her head on her hoof as she sat up as spoke seriously for a moment, “His future is clouded. And his fate, set… I cannot get involved in the telling of that fate for if I do, it can be a great danger.”
The warrior spoke up, “To whom lady oracle?”
The mare shook her head, “I cannot say.”
Thought the warrior was convinced, Chief Basarum wasn’t as he sighed, “Are you sure? Or are you saying that because you want to see the shock and awe on every zebra’s face when we discover the truth for ourselves?”
The mare smiled sinisterly as she giggled, “Oh dear, you know I can't see a zebra’s fate till I meet them face to face. And before you say I should look into your future to see his goals, just consider this… a test of fate.”

Chief Basarum sighed in irritation as he replied, “Why I married an oracle I'll never know…”
The Oracle adjusted her mane slightly as she gave a charming smile, “It was an arranged marriage… and one that I did agree with after all. You should count yourself lucky to have such a catch.”
Ignoring this Chief Basarum turned back to the warrior and spoke, “Nevertheless, the outsider is owed a life debt, and tradition says I must speak to him in regards of this debt. So… send them both to the temple. I will be there shortly.”
The Warrior tapped his spear on the ground and nodded, “Understood.”
As the warriors left, Zera stepped off the boulder and trotted casually towards her husband while also not touching a single white rose as the chief spoke, “Zera, must you act so foalish all the time? Perhaps a little decorum is needed for an oracle of Zebrica?”
The mare approached as she replied while placing her hoof on his cheek, “We both are stubborn, but that is why we are perfect for each other.” She kissed him then continued, “When will you stop holding a grudge towards the outsiders? When will you let our daughter go?”
The chief sighed as he replied, “When they return her to us.”

With slight anger the stallion turned away and continued trotting through the roses till he reached the end of the patch and continued into the village. Concerned, the mare trotted out of the roses and stopped just outside the garden and watched her husband leave, “Oh my chief, when will you learn.”
She turned to the closest rose as she raised her hoof and cradled one of its petals. As soon as the mare touched the bleach white rose petal, blood started trickling down her hoof and dripped to the ground, “That the world outside isn’t the cause of the deaths of the near future.”

Back in the village Zeil and Kante were guided to a large stone temple that sat in the middle of the village. As the two approached the base of the temple, the two guards standing there stopped them as one spoke, “Your weapons?...”
Knowing the rules, Kante pulled her spear and handed it to the guard as she looked to Zeil and spoke, “You will have to leave your carry sack her. No weapons are allowed in the temple, and no outsiders may bring any possessions.”
Though he felt nervous that his saddlebag could be looked through, Zeil still complied with the rule as he removed the saddlebag and gave it to the guard leaving only his cloak on himself. Since he kept his cloak the warrior patted his sides and back to insure there were no hidden pockets before replying, “Your belongings will wait here for you. The chief is waiting to see you.”
Nodding in agreement, Zeil and Kante started trotting up the long tower of steppes until they reached the top of the steps that were about three stories above ground level. After reaching the top of the steps, Zeil turned and looked over the rest of the village, then turned back to the main building on top as he followed the escorting guards inside.

Once inside, Zeil felt a little surprised, the small stone building on top of the temple resembled a throne room with a single stone throne at the back of the room, however it was far too small to compare to any normal throne room. In fact the way it looked it was barely twice the size of Zecora’s Hut back in Equestria. As Zeil trotted to the center of this small room, he could see three guards standing along both of the side walls as two more stood on both sides of the throne. And in the throne, sat Chief Basarum who held an expression of disapproval. Unable to tell who Chief Basarum was centering this expression towards, Zeil held his silence as chief Basarum spoke first, “Sister Kante…”
Kante lowered her head in disappointment as Chief Basarum continued, “We spoke earlier about this… do you remember what I said… about going into the hunting grounds alone?”
Kante sighed, “Chief… if I do not prove my strength now before the placement trials, then how am I su-”
Chief Basarum stood in anger, “You will get your placement mark when you prove your place! Not before… what good is a mark if it leads to your death!”
As Kante hung her head in shame, Zeil wanted to say something but since it wasn’t his business, he held his silence. However, Chief Basarum could tell that Zeil wanted to say something as he spoke first, “This matter is out of your knowledgs outsider… but I will humor you… speak on the subject if you wish.”
Zeil nodded as he spoke, “Chief… I may be an outsider on this… but in her defense young Kante showed her skill and courage out there today. She was just unfortunate to be caught in the middle of a full pride of leopards.”

Basarum thought to himself as he sat down, “A pride you say… tell me… Sister Kante… how many?”
Kante started to reply, “There were f-“
“In our tongue… tell me? Walikuwa wangapi?”
Understanding, Kante replied, “Tano.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I see… and you outsider, in your native tongue… How many leopards were present?”
Knowing there was no reason to lie, Zeil replied, “Five.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he hesitated before replying, “It would seem you both speak the truth.”
Kante spoke up, “I have no reason to lie to you chief! A warrior is always honest in her act-”
“If honest you are, then you’ve no reason to disobey me either… yet… here you stand for that very reason.”
She shook her head as she tried to speak in her own defense, “But I o-”
Chief Basarum waved his hoof dismissively, “Enough! Let us speak of this later. Introductions are needed at this time.”
Chief Basarum stood from his throne as he looked Zeil in the eye and spoke, “Outsider, my name is Chief Basarum high chief of the northern tribes of Zebrica. Tell me, who are you?”

Feeling a little hostility in his voice, Zeil stood strait as he spoke with as much respect as he could, “Chief, My Name is Zeil and I-”
“What nation do you hail from, Zeil?”
Ignoring the interruption, Zeil replied, “I was born in the land of the black sand, but… I guess you could say I'm from Equestria.”
As soon as he heard that, Chief Basarum’s expression became intrigued as he replied, “Is that so… Why are you here? And why did you ask to see me personally?”
Zeil replied, “I came here because I wanted to learn magic.”
Chief Basarum leaned back in his throne, “Magic?... hmm.” He thought to himself before continuing, “Zeil of the Black Sand, as chief of the Northern Tribes it is my task to see to the safety of all who reside here. You assisted in this responsibility by saving and protecting young Sister Kante in her time of need. Because of this, the Northern Tribe now owes you a debt that must be paid. Of which will be done so now. I will accept your request, and ask our most skilled enchanter to teach you the basics of magic, if you want something more advanced, then I would ask you journey to the Western Tribes for assistance.”
Chief Basarum sat back down as he continued, “Now that that matter is set, you may go, I will h-“
Zeil interrupted, “With all due respect, I’m not asking for lessons by any enchanter… I'm asking for lessons from you.”
Chief Basarum was intrigued further, “Me?”

Zeil tried to pick his words carefully as he replied with a lie, “I’ve heard you are very skilled with magic, so I journeyed far to reach you.”
Chief Basarum smiled as he replied, “Is that so… Well I regret to inform you, that I no longer teach magic. And If I did, and I mean this with all due resp-… actually no, I mean it as it sounds. If I did teach magic, it certainly wouldn’t be to an outsider.”
As that was said, a zebra mare entered the temple from behind Zeil as the oracle stopped at the entrance and looked to her husband at the throne with an unamused expression. For a split moment, Chief Basarum shifted his eyes to his wife and saw her expression as he looked back to Zeil and continued, “Unless… there were a good reason why I should. But…” He chuckled, “It would have to be gravely important. So… is there.”
Zeil looked at the guards in the room before looking back and replying, “There is… but… I cannot say here. If we could continue in private I would tell you.”

Chief Basarum smiled slightly as he stood and replied, “Stranger… look to the stallion before you. You see a chief who must at all times see to the needs of all brothers and sisters of his tribe. If I were to accept seeing an outsider of whom I just met in private without my warriors to assist me, then my life and responsibility to my tribe would be forfeit. I cannot risk my life so easily just because an outsider wishes to tell me something in absence of my brothers and sisters around me. So unless you can say here… I will accept nothing.”
Zeil hesitated for a second as the chief continued, “So… will you say? Or is this meeting done.”
Remembering the letter in his saddle bag, Zeil sighed in disappointment, “No…”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Then it is done.” He sat back in his throne, “If you will not accept to learn magic from one of my enchanters, then there is no reason for you to remain here.”

The oracle in the back of the room interrupted by clearing her throat loudly as the sound caught Chief Basarum’s attention for a moment. Then trying to act as if her actions had nothing to do with it, Chief Basarum continued, “But… since the tribe has yet to pay back the debt it owes, I will do this.” He sat up strait and spoke, “Zeil of the Black Sand… From this moment forward, you will be a welcomed guest here in the Northern Tribes of Zebrica. You may set up your own shelter on the village edge and so long as you earn your keep, you will be tolerated here as a resident of the tribe. However, you are not a brother of the tribe so do not expect treatment as such. Here, we have no currency so to earn your keep you will work for it.” as he spoke, the oracle left the temple back through the same entrance Zeil used as Chief Basarum continued, “Sister Kante, since it was your disobedience that led to his our debt, you will teach Zeil what it means to be amongst our tribe. And see to his place until he decides a better payment for our debt to him, or decided to leave on his own decision.”
At first Kante didn’t seem to like the decision, however after a moment of thinking about it she smiled, “Understood Chief, I will see to Broth-“
“Just Zeil… as I said… he is no brother to this tribe. He is still an outsider and will be addressed as such.”
She nodded at the chief’s correction, “Yes chief, I understand.”

Chief Basarum looked to Zeil as he spoked, “Zeil… do you accept this? Or do you wish to leave?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I accept… but I don’t intend to leave until I learn magic from you.”
Chief Basarum smiled “Then stay as long as you like, but don’t let me regret this.” He waved them away, “Now go.”
Nodding in acceptance, Both Zeil and Kante turned away and left the throne room as they both left the small temple building and made their way down the towering temple steps. As they trotted down Zeil continued in silent thought as Kante spoke, “What is the matter Zeil? Is something wrong?”
Zeil replied, “It’s strange, when I met you at first you spoke in your native language, but since I’ve been here every zebra speaks ponish.”
Kante nodded, “Yes, we learn our language first then ponish next, but with time we forget. The other tribes only speak ponish so we usually only speak for short times with our language. But the oracle tries to keep help every zebra remember both languages. That’s why she teaches us.”
Zeil nodded as he changed the subject, “I guess that make since, but I have to ask, the chief… he doesn’t like outsiders does he?”
Kante smiled, “Do not judge Chief Basarum to badly, he has been distrustful of outsiders for many years. Even before my birth.”
As the two made it to the bottom steps, Zeil started to ask, “Really? Did something happen that caused him to dis-“
“Stop!”
Zeil immediately paused as he found himself looking at the bottom of a hoof as the oracle stood in front of him and held her hoof less than an inch from his face. Seeing the mare Kante smiled “Lady Zera, it’s good to se-“
“Shush!”

Silencing herself, Kante took a step back as the oracle lowered her hoof and trotted around Zeil as she examined every inch of his body leaving Zeil confused and somewhat nervous to the unexpected actions. As she trotted around him, she left no trace of him overlooked as she even lifted his cloak and took a close look at his stripes and placement mark, “Hmmm, good tone. Well-kept but rough coat. Stripes are strait and clean, placement mark… questionable but easily visible.” She continued around him, “Tail a little short bit clean and kept, or as can be for a traveler. I’d question the tone of the tails colors, but an old mare such as I can't judge what the next generation does with mane color.”
The mare continued her examination as she completely circled him then continued by moving his mussel left and right to examine his face, “You have a strong chin and your eyes show your are determined as well as knowledgeable. You should do something about your mane though, it seems to a handsome stallion shouldn’t let it cover his face even if only slightly.”
Although he blushed slightly at the complement, Zeil was unable to reply as Zera placed her hoof on the tip of his muzzle and lowered it down to look directly into his eyes from close up, “Hmmm… you have a strong soul, and gentle in its own ways… your… you’re in love aren’t you?”
Gasping out loud Kante took a step back as she spoke, “Zeil? Is this true?”
Zeil was at a loss of words as he tried to reply, “I… uh…”
All of a sudden the oracle released his face as she turned away and covered her blushing face, “Oh dear me… how scandalous, not that I'm not flattered or anything but an old mare like myself with such a young stud like you… I mean… what would my husband say?”

Completely confused, Zeil replied, “Wait… what?”
The oracle continued, “Well… if I could find time, I may be able to keep it secret from my husband… but what would happen if he should find out? How would I decide the better suiter?”
Zeil caught on as he spoke, “Wait… it’s not like that, I don-”
Kante spoke, “Is it true Zeil? Did you come here to sweep away the oracle? Is that why you asked for Chief Basarum? To woe his wife?”
Still blushing Zeil looked to Kante, “You’re not helping!”
At that moment as if a switch was flipped, the oracle stopped hiding her face as she thrusted her face towards Zeil stopping only a few inches from his as she spoke, “Or…. Is it another you are in love with… a mare of whom you owe a great deal too? Hmm… you came from Equestria? Is it a zebra who hold your heart? A… Zecora perhaps?”
Kante was now shocked, “S-Sister Zecora?” she looked to Zeil, “You know Sister Zecora?”

At first Zeil was confused as to how the mare guessed his love, but he disregarded it as he asked, “Wait… you both know Zecora?”
The oracle replied, “Every Zebra of this tribe knows Zecora, descendent of great Chief Rafi. She is the pride of this tribe after all.”
“And what do you know of Sister Zecora outsider? You failed to mention it before.”
Surprised by the interruption Zeil looked back to the temple’s steps as he saw Chief Basarum trotting down as Zeil replied, “I… I met her in Equestria. She taught me basic magic.”
Kante grabbed his hoof and tugged it with anticipation, “And is it true? Did you fall in love with her?”
Zeil looked at the excited filly’s expression as he nodded, “Yes… I fell for her. That’s why I wanted to get better at magic, to show her what her teaching can accomplish.”
The oracle smiled as she replied, “Her teachings? I hope it isn’t her teachings that brought you to try seducing an old mare like me to be your mistress… and with my husband so close… you dog you.”
Remembering Kante saying that the oracle was Chief Basarum’s wife, Zeil felt nervous as he replied, “Wait… no that’s not…”

Chief Basarum sighed as he spoke, “I hope you will excuse my wife, though she is the Tribe Oracle, at times she can be… a lot.”
Zera looked to the chief and spoke, “Now that’s not a nice thing to say about your wife.”
Basarum smiled, “Oh? Am I wrong?”
She hesitated before pouting as she replied, “Doesn’t make it any less rude.”
Basarum nodded before looking back to Zeil, “So… you hold feelings for Sister Zecora… Tell me… has she returned those feelings?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… she has.”
Basarum turned back up the stairs and replied in distain, “Funny… to learn magic, from one who didn’t even finish her own training.”
Hearing that the disrespectful comment was centered more to Zecora, Zeil turned completely to Basarum as he replied, “Excuse me?”
Feeling no need to argue, Basarum replied as he left the area, “You heard me… now if you will excuse me, I have a tribe to look after. Be on your way, outsider. Zera, come… we must talk.”

Angry, Zeil started to follow but was stopped by the oracle as she spoke, “Do not take offence to my husband’s disrespect, like myself… he too can be… a lot. But I digress you must be some changeling to woe the heart of a zebra. Tell me is the love real? Or is it as fake as your appearance?”
Zeil was surprised, “Wh- but… how did you know I was a?”
Kante giggled, “Nothing gets past Lady Zera, the Oracle of Zebrica. She sees all and knows all.”
Zera nodded, “To an extent yes. But please answer my question.” She spoke with seriousness in her tone, “Do you truly love her… or are you a changeling to your core.”
Somewhat intimidated by her seemingly threatening tone, Zeil replied, “I love her… and I will give anything and everything to see that I get back to her as soon as I can. But only after I learn magic from Chief Basarum.”
The oracle smiled “Good… then I wish you luck in your quest.”
Zeil was confused, “Quest?”
The oracle trotted passed Zeil and stepped on the first step to go up the temple as she replied, “Yes, the quest to convince my husband to teach you. By the way… every day when the sun is at its highest, we meditate together in the blood rose field on the eastern side of the village. Though the place is forbidden to most of the tribe, you may still meet him on the trail leading to the temple from there. My husband always sees to his duties right after his meditation so you are guaranteed to see him there… just a hint.”
Zeil gave the mare a confused look, “A hint?”

The oracle turned completely to him, “Well of course, my husband has a bad taste for outsiders but the only thing worse than his hatred, is his lack of patients. He won't do anything to you since he is bound by tribal tradition to pay back its debt but, you may be able to whittle him down enough to get your request. In time.”
The mare turned back to the steps and trotted up them as she spoked playfully, “May good fortune smile on you and this task, I know I will.”
With nothing more to say, the oracle continued up the stairs towards the top of the temple as a warrior zebra approached and handed Zeil his saddle bag, “Your things outsider.”
Disregarding the mare’s words Zeil took his saddlebag and started putting it on, as Kante smiled and spoke, “Wow, known by both Sister Zecora and Lady Zera, you are much more special than I thought.”
Zeil looked up the temple steps at the leaving oracle as he replied, “Funny… doesn’t make me feel very special. Then again, I'm no stranger of being liked by some and hated by the rest.”

Up at the top of the temple, Chief Basarum was watching Zeil from atop the steps as his wife finished climbing the stairs before turning and sitting beside him as they both watched Zeil put on his saddlebag and begin trotting into the village with Kante by his side. As they watched, the oracle spoke, “Such an interesting outsider… one wonders what his true goal is.”
Chief Basarum replied, “You took your time observing him… was he hiding his future from you? Or were you just flirting with him?”
The mare smiled in a joking manner, “Who me? Why do you ask? Is my husband Jealous of the young handsome stranger?”
Chief Basarum smiled back as he replied, “I would be if I didn’t trust you… and if his young handsome face wasn’t so fake.” his smile faded, “That said… I don’t trust him. Something about him seems… convenient.”

The mare smiled as she replied, “I like him… he seems trustworthy enough. Especially since he was able to woe Zecora’s heart.”
Ignoring the comment, Chief Basarum replied, “Don’t get involved with him. I can't put my hoof on it, but I'm not so sure his arrival here is a good omen. He may have saved Kante’s life, but that seems too coincidental to hold good fortune.”
The oracle nodded, “Nothing is coincidental… it’s all a matter of fate following its course.”
Not trusting her expression Chief Basarum looked to his wife and spoke, “What are you scheming? When you looked into his future, what did you see?”
The mare smiled as she turned to trot into the temple, “Nothing… nothing at all.”
Chief Basarum was curious, “Nothing? Is that so, or would you rather hide it from me and let me find out on my own?”
She smiled, “The bigger question is, if I did know and told you, would it change? Or would his fate be solely dependent on me telling you in the first place?”
Basarum didn’t reply, instead he just gave his wife a hopeless look as she smiled and replied while leaving, “Don’t think too hard on it husband, you know as well as I that, that is a question that even I can’t answer.”

Back in the village Kante led Zeil through the village as she pointed out huts and spoke, “That is the farming hut, where we collect and stow our food, and over there is the fishing hut. We don’t eat fish, but we use it to trade with other tribes for items we can't make. Over there is a weaving hut, we make clothing there using cotton traded from other tirbes.”
As they continued, every zebra in the tribe gave Zeil a curious or untrusting look as he ignored them and replied, “It’s impressive to see this place working like clockwork.”
The filly gave him a confused look, “Clock… work?”
Seeing she didn’t understand Zeil replied, “I mean it seems every zebra here plays their part in supporting the tribe.”
Kante nodded, “Yes, each zebra has a place for them as by their placement mark. The warriors protect the tribe, the herbalist mix herbs into potions, the foragers gather food and other things from the savannah. We all have our place… and soon I will too.”
As they trotted Zeil looked at the filly’s flank as he nodded, “So you don’t have your placement mark yet?” remembering a few books from Equestria, Zeil continued, “So, when do you have your first placement trial?”
The filly smiled, “You know of the trials? You are smart, my first trial is next year, but I do not need a trial to know what I am.” She patted her chest with her hoof as she spoke proudly, “I am a warrior. Just as my mother and father before me. It is my fate and soon I will have a mark to prove it.”

Zeil smiled as he replied, “Well seeing how you held your composure during the incident earlier, really shows how great of a warrior you will be.”
The Filly replied, “I do not know what composure means but it sounds like praise so I will accept it.”
Zeil smiled at the filly’s pride, until Kante turned to him and continued, “And with your help I will be even stronger.”
Zeil was confused, “Really? How so?”
Kante replied, “You can teach me.”
Zeil paused, “Wait… what?”
Kante nodded as she replied, “I saw it when you stood against the leopards. At first I thought you were a… what is the word? Lunatic? Jumping into an unwinnable fight without a leopard pride.”
Zeil rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment as he replied, “Yea… I guess I did, didn’t I?”
Not realizing that’s exactly what he did, Kante continued, “But when you readied yourself for a fight, you knew immediately who the leader was and kept your eyes on him. Then the leader saw you as the better and fled without even testing you. Why else would they run away like they did?”

Since he himself didn’t know for sure why the leopards withdrew, Zeil nodded while playing it off, “Well… maybe. It’s possible they were unsure of me and didn’t want to take the risk. I mean I am new to this region so any creature will be cautious of strangers.”
Kante nodded as she continued trotting through the village, “Whatever the reason, I think you can help me train. Since the chief refuses to teach me, and he told the rest of the tribe to do the same. I’ve had to learn all on my own.”
Zeil was surprised, “He told the rest of the tribe to not teach you? What about your parents?”
The filly’s expression sank as she replied, “I have none… Mother died during my birth and… father passed during the Kiwinda a few years ago.”
Zeil was surprised, “Kiwi… what?”
Kante replied, “Kiwinda, it means the hunt. It’s a competition we hold once a year with the outer tribes. It’s an honorable competition, but… the outer tribe’s buffalo are powerful creatures. Occasionally some are injured… and others even killed. The next one should be in a few days.”
Zeil nodded, “I'm sorry for you loss, so… who do you live with?”
Kante replied, “I live alone.”
Zeil was surprise, “Alone? How old are you?”
The filly gave him an annoyed look, “I am ten years of age, but I fight as if I were an adult. My father’s blood runs through my veins, so I can protect myself like any warrior.”

Zeil paused as he replied, “Wait, I didn’t mean any offence, it’s just odd to see one so young fending for herself.”
Kante replied, “True I was not alone completely, Chief Basarum looks after me from time to time and the rest of the tribe bring me food when I need it. After all as long as you provide for the tribe, the tribe provides for you. It is how we do things here.”
Zeil smiled, “I guess that means I have to pull my weight around here. I'm still going to try to convince the chief to teach me magic, but I don’t want to be dead weight for the tribe.”
Kante gave him another confused look, “Dead weight… that sounds like a strange thing to say, you may need to teach me more about your language.”
Zeil could only smiled, “Don’t worry, I can teach you all you need to know about my language, after all I'm not going anywhere, not till I get what I came for.”

Bk9/Ch2 Chief Rafi's Legacy

Book 9 / Chapter 2
Chief Rafi’s Legacy
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 15)

Silence crept over the grove of bleach white roses as Chief Basarum and his wife sat meditating back to back on the stone that sat in the center of the Blood Rose patch. As they meditated Zera’s immediately opened her eyes and smiled, “Interesting.”
Sensing her actions, Chief Basarum opened his eyes as he looked to his wife, “Zera? What do you see?”
The oracle smiled as she replied, “A vision… of short terms to come.”
Chief Basarum asked, “Is it something I should be concerned with?”
She nodded, “Not yet, but if you want some advice, I will be sure to pass it on later.”
Chef Basarum nodded, “Is that so… and when will you be giving me this advice?”
She replied, “Today… when you go meet with him.”
The chief gave her a confused look, “Meet with who?”

She didn’t reply, instead Zera looked towards the trail leading back into the village as a warrior approached and spoke, “Chief Basarum, Chief Tanak has arrived from the Outer Tribes. He and his water buffalo are waiting on the Kiwinda field.”
Chief Basarum looked to his wife who nodded to her explanation before looking back to the warrior and replying, “Yes, thank you brother, I will be there shortly.”
With that the two leaders stood from their meditative positions as they expertly trotted through the grove of bleach white roses without touching a single one.

Once they crossed the roses and started into the village, Zera smiled as she spoke, “I wonder if we will see Mr. Zeil today.”
Chief Basarum sighed in hopelessness, “Most likely, we’ve seen him every day for the past week waiting for us on this trail. Doubtful that today will be any different.”
The oracle giggled playfully, “You have to admire his persistence.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Don’t talk as if this wasn’t your idea… I know you told him about this path just to get him to pester me on a daily basis.”
Zera smiled “Who me? I would never do anything to undermine your unessisary and somewhat outdated hatred towards outsiders.”
Chef Basarum sighed, “Even so, since he arrived the rest of the tribe has welcomed him and he has been doing his part to gain their acceptance. Which includes training Sister Kante behind our back.”
Zera nodded, “Yes … he is teaching her skills to be a warrior. With her stubbornness I guess it was inevitable.”
Chief Basarum replied in irritation, “This can be a problem… if she learns to fight, she will get her placement mark soon… then…”
Zera sighed, “I agree, but we can't hold her back forever. Like it or not, we have to accept what will come of this. It is her fate.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “And… we cannot change it, no matter how hard I try.”

The wise oracle sighed in worry, “But one wonders, Should we tell Zeil? She has grown quite attached to him, so much that I’ve heard she has been calling him brother. Not as in a brother to the tribe, but as a sibling.” She giggled, “It’s quite adorable when you think about it. Having no siblings of her own she has set out to adopt one instead.”
Chief Basarum didn’t respond instead he just continued with an uneasy expression on his face as Zera’s expression sank to match his, “Perhaps… we shouldn’t. If Zeil has grown attached to her in turn. Then knowing the truth could hurt him. Maybe… even break him.”
Chief Basarum sighed, “We will continue to keep it to ourselves. Better to let them spend their time without worry.”
The Oracle smiled, “look who is growing a soft spot for the outsider. Perhaps there is hope for you yet.”
Chief Basarum replied with a serious tone, “I'm not doing this for his sake… I'm doing it for hers. Kante’s life has been filled with such misfortune, I would like it if should could feel any bit of joy out of her life. At least until…”

As that was said, Zeil and Kante trotted up as Zeil spoke, “Good morning Chief Basarum, Lady Zera. How are you two doing today?”
Trying to brush off the earlier conversation, Zera smiled as she replied, “honestly, better after hearing such a polite greeting. Though I feel inclined to correct you… technically it is afternoon”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “So it is, my mistake.”
Chief Basarum gave Zeil an untrusting look as he spoke, “Mr. Zeil… since you are here… again, I'm sure I know what you’re going to ask next. After all you have asked the same thing day by day for the past few days now.”
Zeil nodded, as he acted dumb, “Really? And what is that?”
Basarum sighed in hopelessness as he replied, “You were going to once again ask me to teach you magic, just as you did yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before that.”
Zeil rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment as he replied, “Well, can't blame me for trying, so… will you?”
Chief Basarum sighed, “No… I will not.”
Kante nodded as she looked to Zeil, “See I told you he wouldn’t agree yet.”
Zeil nodded, “Patients is a virtue Kante, even the most inexperienced warriors knows that.” He looked to Basarum, “Well I guess I'll have to try again tomorrow then.”

Basarum gave Zeil an annoyed look, “Tell me… why do you continue this game day to day Zeil? Are you trying to insult me in some way?”
Waving his hoof in a dismissive way Zeil replied, “What no, nothing like that, I just thou-“
“You thought I would simply forget something in a manner of one night? That yesterday’s response will change simply because I will have slept since then? Name one significant thing that could happen in a single night that can change anything?”
Zeil replied, “Zecora saved my life in one night, and I fell in love the next night.”
Smiling at the tender thought, Zera spoke, “Aww, isn’t that sweet?”
Thinking it was only a joke, Chief Basarum trotted by Zeil as he replied in an insulted way, “Go back into the village Zeil… I’ve had enough of this for one day.”

As Chief Basarum trotted by, Zera spoke up, “You know my love, perhaps… Mr Zeil only needs to understand the tribe better.”
Both Zeil and Basarum looked to the oracle as they both replied at the same time, “What?”
Zera continued, “Yes, maybe Mr. Zeil needs a better understanding. A good way to help him would be to allow him to attend the viewing of the Kiwinda. In fact it may be better to introduce him to Chief Tanak while you’re at it. Better he understand what the Kiwinda is and the competitors of both sides.”
Kante spoke with excitement, “The Kiwinda! Can we go see it with you chief? It would be so much better viewing it from the tower.”
Zeil was confused, “The tower?”
Kante explained, “The Kiwinda has a large tower that the chief’s view it from that way if there is an infraction that the judges don’t see, the chiefs have a sky eye view that can determine the results of the round.”
Zeil corrected, “I think you mean birds eye view.”
Kate sighed, “Potato, tomato, it’s the same thing isn’t it?”

Everyone in the area gave the young zebra a confused look as Zeil ignored her comment and looked to Basarum, “Anyways, if you don’t mind Chief, it would be interesting to see this Kiwinda event. And as Lady Zera says, it could help me better understand the tribe.”
At first Chief Basarum wanted to say no and walk away, but since he remembered Zera’s vision from that morning, he could only sigh in defeat as he accepted the advice, “I will… under one condition… you behave yourself and don’t make too much noise.”
Kante smiled, “Don’t worry chief, I’ll be as quiet as a mouse.”
Basarum replied as he poked Zeil’s chest “I was talking about Zeil here…”
Zeil nodded as he ignored the insulting tone, “Don’t worry. I'll follow your lead and behave.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Good, we will be meeting with the chief of the Outer Tribes, he is a good friend and I don’t want you overstepping your place.”
Although Zeil still felt somewhat offended by his tone, he ignored it since that’s all he dealt with the five days he has been in the village. As they started trotting towards the event area Lady Zera waved them off as she spoke, “Have fun you three… and please don’t kill any zebra… or in this case, changeling.”

Ignoring the comment, Chief Basarum led the way as Zeil and Kante followed closely behind. As they preceded to their destination Kante spoke, “The Kiwinda is a great event that happens once a year, warriors from near and far all come to the Northern Tribes to see it… even though its only between the outer water buffalo and the Northern Zebra.”
Zeil nodded in understanding but as he started to reply, Chief Basarum interrupted, “It’s a dedication to what Chief Rafi set out to accomplish. Peace through understanding.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “To harm another is unjust and unessisary.”
As he heard those words, Chief Basarum stopped in place as he looked to Zeil in surprise, “What did you say?”
Just then, Zeil realized he quoted something that Rafi had told him many years ago as he tried to reply with an excuse, “Oh uh, it’s just something I read in a book once… um… something that Chief Rafi said right?”
Basarum’s expression went back to normal as he nodded, “Oh… I see, so you’ve read about him have you? Or…” he looked away and started back on the road, “Did Zecora tell you.”

As they continued, Zeil noticed that the chief’s expression when he said those words seemed more passive then interested as he replied, “No, Zecora didn’t talk about him… at all now that I think about it.”
Basarum spoke disrespectfully, “Funny she would hide the very reason for being in Equestria from one she cared for. Perhaps you are mistaken in her feelings for you.”
Zeil replied, “No… I'm not. I know she is in love with me because…”
Basarum’s tone became more annoyed, “Because?...”
Zeil sighed, “I'm a changeling… I know love when I feel it… and to add, she told me herself.”
Basarum nodded as he replied, “Oh… I see.”
Sensing more hostility, Zeil replied, “Do… do you have some sort of resentment on Zecora? It seems y-”
Basarum stopped in place as he spoke in anger, “This subject ends here and now… I will hear nothing more from the likes of you on it, understood?”

Although Zeil felt he should delve deeper into it, he could tell that the hostility that Basarum was feeling was borderline violent as he decided to deescalate the topic as he nodded, “Fine… if that’s what you want, I'll agree to disagree.”
Basarum turned his head slightly till he could see Zeil out the corner of his eye, then paused for a few seconds before looking back to the front and continuing on the road, “Fine by me.”
As the group continued in silence Kante could tell there was tension in the air as she too held her silence. A few minutes later, the trio arrived at a large field that was made out on the savannah. The field seemed to be long and rectangular in shape with viewing stands stretched along the two hundred yard length while a tall two story tower stood at the half way point. At one end of the field was a long hut that encased the fifty yard width, while on the other end was a red line stretching across the end as if it were some sort of finish line. The middle of the field didn’t seem to hold any markings or lines of any kind, in fact it just seemed like a boxed off strip of the dusty savanna complete with low shrubs peppered across the field.

Zeil looked in awe at the field as Kante spoke, “Oh look the hunters are already here! Chief, can I go speak to them?”
Chief Basarum smiled as he replied, “Since the competition hasn’t begun yet, feel free. Just don’t bother them too much.”
Acting her age, Kante ran to the zebra who were doing warm up stretches near the starting hut. As Kante rushed to the hunters, Zeil and Basarum smiled at her innocence as a voice spoke up, “Chief Basarum of the North! Good to see you my friend!”
Both Zeil and Basarum looked to the large water buffalo that trotted up as Basarum smiled, “Chief Tanak of the Outer Tribes good to see you too.”
The large smiling chief looked to Zeil as he spoke, “And who might this be? Is this the flea who has been biting at your ear for the past week?”
Zeil was confused, “Flea?”
Basarum nodded as he replied, “It is, this is Zeil. He is the outsider that stumbled into my village and somehow managed to put us in debt. Now he refuses to leave and keeps requesting that I teach him magic.”

As soon as he understood, Zeil could only smile as he replied, “So I'm a flea am I? Well at least that means your noticing me. Otherwise I would be offended if I wasn’t at least mentionable to the other tribes.”
At first Tanak gave Zeil an emotionless look, but after a few seconds he busted into a fit of laughter before replying, “Whoa hoo he got ya there Basarum!”
Zeil laughed along as he spoke, “Nice to meet you Chief Tanak. Good to see that not all chiefs are so serious all the time.”
Chief Basarum gave Zeil an annoyed look as Chief Tanak gave him one powerful yet painful pat on the back and replied, “Yep, Basarum here is one of a kind!”
As that was said, Kante rushed up as she spoke, “Brot… I mean Zeil! Come meet the hunters, they are the best warriors in the tribe and most of them trained with my father.”
Hoping Chief Basarum didn’t hear her almost call him brother, Zeil replied, “I'm coming I'm coming you know you can ask a little nicer next time, I was in a conversation with the chiefs.”
Kante shrugged her shoulders, “If it was important Chief Basarum would tell me to leave not quit, what do you say? Loafing around and come.”
Zeil shook his head, “When have I ever said the word loafing in any context?” he sighed, “Fine I'm coming.”

As Zeil trotted off, Chief Tanak laughed, “Quite the charmer isn’t he? Whether you like it or not, it would seem that he is becoming a member of the tribe.”
Basarum rubbed his head in irritation, “It would seem that way.”
Tanak smiled, “I'm a little surprised you brought him here. An outsider I mean. After the ordeal with Zee Zee, I would assume-“
Realizing what he said, Tanak silenced himself before adding, “My apologies… I didn’t mean to bring up your daughter. It’s just… surprising is what I meant to say. That you would escort an outsider to the Kiwinda.”
Basarum sighed, “I wouldn’t have, if not for a vision from my wife.”
Tanak continued, “The oracle? She had a vision?”
Basarum nodded, “She did, but as usual she wanted to keep it to herself. Whatever it is, she suggested I bring him here.”

Chief Tanak nodded as he spoke silently with a serious tone, “Then my guess was right, there is more to this zebra then we both know.”
Basarum asked, “You say that as if you know something about him.”
Chief Tanak nodded, “I do, a few weeks ago, I heard word of a zebra that jumped ship in Zebabwee. Captain Sail’s ship if I'm right.”
Basarum was intrigued, “Captain Crimson Sail?”
Tanak replied, “Yes, the same one you sought out to take Zecora to Equestria.”
Basarum replied in anger, “And bring her back… which he failed to do.”
Tanak added, “By her request I should say. Anyways… the zebra that jumped ship was a skinny sort referred to as Sir Zeil.”
“Sir Zeil? By whom?”
Tanak continued, “Apparently Princess Skystar of the Hippogriff kingdom.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself, “I'm not familiar with her… but I tend to ignore royal names from outside nations. So… you think Zeil and this Sir Zeil are one and the same?”
Chief Tanak nodded, “It would seem so, a skinny zebra with a dark cloak and a respectable personality. Perhaps he is knighted by a hippogriff princess.”

At that moment a voice spoke up, “Excuse me, Chiefs?”
Both Chief Tanak and Chief Basarum looked up to see two tall giraffe as one was lowering his head to speak, “It’s almost time to begin the competition. Are you two ready?”
Disregarding the conversation, Chief Tanak smiled, “Yes we are, I'm guessing you’re the referees for this year’s competition?”
The one with his head lowered nodded as he replied, “We are Chief Tanak, and as soon as you two are in the tower we can begin.”
Basarum nodded as he replied, “Very well then.” He looked to Kante and Zeil, “Hey! We are about to begin! Let the hunters get ready in peace.”
Nodding in agreement, Kante rushed back to the two chiefs as Zeil followed. As the group assembled, Chief Tanak started up the stairs to the tall tower as Basarum, Kante, and Zeil followed in that order.

As the four started climbing the stairs to the top of the tower, Zeil noticed that one of Chief Basarum’s warrior zebra was already waiting at the top to guard the two chiefs as Zeil and Kante looked over the field as one of the giraffe that stood next to the tower at eye level with the group called over the field, “All hunters, to the tunnels! Prey! To the starting hut!”
As he heard the call, Zeil was confused as he looked down to see that the warrior zebra going into a small stairway that led underground, while the water buffalo went into the large hut that stretched over the end of the field. As soon as all participants were gone from eye view Zeil looked to Tanak as he asked, “Did they say… prey? What exactly are the rules of this game?”
Basarum spoke with little interest, “It is as its name suggests… The Kiwinda… the hunt.”
Chief Tanak explained, “In this competition there are ten hunters and five prey per run. The hunters go into a tunnel that is connected to an assortment of hidden trapdoors on the field. There, they decide how they will divvy themselves out per round. While the prey go into hut and decide who they choose for each round. In a round one water buffalo who is designated as the prey will exit the hut and try to make their way to the opposite end of the field.”

Kante continued, “The hunters who are hiding in the trapdoors will wait for their chance to strike and try to stop them. But since water buffalo are much stronger then the zebra, they can use any number of hunters they want, but no hunter can be used more than once per run so they have to cleverly divide themselves so that no round is left too weak or too strong.”
Basarum continued, “There are two runs per game with only five rounds per run. The hunters have to be cleaver, because if they decide to use three hunters in a round, then thy leave another round with a worse advantage. But since they don’t know which prey is in the round till it starts it can be a challenge for both sides.”
Zeil tried to understand, “So… its literally a hunt?”
Chief Tanak laughed, “No worries Mr Zeil, the spears the hunters use are standard staves with pillow like tips and red chalk. At no time will any of my water buffalo actually be hurt… however…”
Kante lowered her head as Basarum spoke respectfully, “Occasionally there are casualties… mainly on the zebra side. Water buffalo are powerful creatures and if caught under their hooves or on their horns, it can be fatal. But… to compete is an honor for all my warriors… we know the risks, and we accept what becomes of it.”

Zeil still felt a little confused, “But… isn’t it still a little… demeaning for the prey? I mean they are literally being hunted for sport.”
Tanak laughed, “It would be, but this competition is a two way street. Whilst the Zebra gain experience in hunting an intelligent prey, my water buffalo gain skills in eluding terrible predators. It’s how you say… a win win?”
Zeil still felt concerned, “But… isn’t it-”
Chief Basarum sighed as he interrupted, “This is the result of the peace established by Chief Rafi. like it, hate it, I don’t care, but know that it is as it is, and to disrespect it… is to disrespect all that Chief Jumb Rafi did for all of Zebrica.”
Worried he would disrespect somepony, Zeil silenced himself as he looked down in thought. Seeing this, Kante was curious, “Brother Zeil… do… you know what Chief Jumb Rafi did for Zebrica?”

Although Zeil felt he knew the answer, the more he thought about it, Zeil realized that he truly didn’t. He understood that Rafi was a chief from long ago, but he didn’t understand what made him so important as Zeil replied, “All I really know about Rafi is that he was chief of the western tribes over a thousand years ago and that he fought in a war in Equestria at about that time.”
Chief Basarum smiled as he sighed, “Typical outsider… he knows the name but nothing of his significance or legacy. Thousands of years ago, we the zebra served our titan as his enforcers of magic. We ensured that magic within our titan’s territory was kept in balance so that none could use it unjustly. But once our titan was imprisoned for betraying the rest of the world, we the zebra fell into chaos. It’s unknown how it started, but the four tribes of the north, south, east, and west declared war on one another and were locked in what seemed to be an endless stalemate of death and destruction.”

Chief Tanak nodded as he continued, “Each Tribe had excelled the other in their own field. The North were powerful warriors, the South expert strategists, the East master weapon smiths, and the West master enchanters. Although these feats outmatched their aggressors, we all know that those who hunt four rabbits at once, catch none.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “With a war being fought between four they were locked in a stale mate. So despite heavy casualties on all fronts, the war continued for many centuries. Until Chief Rafi called forth the first assembly of the chiefs.”
Zeil was curious, “Assembly of the chiefs?”
Tanak nodded, “An important meeting of which all five chiefs of Zebrica are called together. Since it is an emergency meeting it is only ever called in times of great importance or emergencies.”
Chief Basarum continued, “Anyways, Chief Rafi assembled the tribal leaders and pleaded them to see reason. He talked about the unity of the tribes and that if we used our talents to work together then we as a nation, would thrive far better than we would at war. And after days of trying he was finally able to convince them to stop fighting all together.”
Chief Tanak smiled as he looked over the stands of cheering zebra and buffalo as he continued, “It was his goal for peace that put us all on a better path. The Outer Tribes were never unified until he finally made Zebrica a safe place to live.”

Zeil thought to himself before replying, “I knew he wasn’t just a random Zebrican Chief, but I didn’t know he was that significant. But… if he strived for peace, then why did he fight in a war in Equestria?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “After peace was made apparent in Zebrica, Chief Rafi wanted to spread that peace to the rest of the world, so he assembled a council made up of the nation’s greatest leaders and went from country to country gathering supporters to join in his goal for world peace. However…”
Chief Basarum silenced himself as Tanak finished, “He soon found that the rest of the world will never have that kind of peace.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “True, though he was a great chief, in that sense he was somewhat naive. Peace with outsiders isn’t possible. There is too much greed in the world for every nation to agree to peace. The war in Equestria is proof of that.”
Chief Tanak shook his head, “Now that’s a little harsh Basarum. Chief Rafi met a general in that nation that he felt was worthy of praise. Why else would he request Zecora t-“
At that moment, Chief Basarum gave Tanak an angry glare as the large Water buffalo silenced himself before clearing his throat and continuing, “What I mean is. The war there was something that even the chief of peace couldn’t overlook. That’s why he stayed to fight, and why he passed his final request to his youngest bloodline.”
Zeil started to ask, “Final… request?”
Before he could finish, Basarum looked down at the field as he spoke, “There it’s starting.”

Down on the field, the hut at the start of the field opened up as one of the water buffalo exited it and slowly made his way onto the field. As soon as he saw him, Chief Basarum smiled as he spoke to Chief Tanak, “He looks new, is this his first year competing?”
Tanak nodded, “It is, he is a little impatient but he was looking forward to his first competition.”
As they watched, the young water buffalo took a few seconds to pan his eyes over the field before choosing his path as he started rushing down the field in a swerving pattern. As the prey ran, Basarum sighed, “And there is the inpatients.”
After a few seconds of running the water buffalo neared the halfway point in the field before quickly stopping as if he spotted something directly in his path. As soon as he stopped, a small trapdoor hidden under the dirt in his path popped open as a zebra hunter lunged a spear out towards to young prey. Surprised by the action Zeil sat up in anxiety as he watched the buffalo dodge the spear and continue running passed the trapdoor as the zebra jumped out and gave chase.

As the buffalo rushed up the field, Zeil felt eager as he watched the buffalo’s sprint towards the finish on the other end of the field. As the buffalo seemed to near the finish, a second trapdoor opened from across the field as a second zebra stood from the hole and readied his spear to throw at the buffalo. A few moments later, the zebra threw his weapon at the right moment as the weapon flew across the field and hit the buffalo on his side bouncing off but leaving a red chalk mark at the point of impact. Although the water buffalo felt the hit, he still continued the few extra feet needed to cross the finish line as one of the giraffe called across the area, “KILLING BLOW! Point Hunters!”
At that moment, an eruption of cheers came from the stands as the water buffalo at the end of the field wiped away the chalk on his coat and stomped the ground in frustration. As the stands cheered, Chief Tanak smiled as he spoke, “A good call, if the blade on that spear were real it would have punctured his heart. Looks like this year’s hunters will be a challenge to beat.”
Chief Basarum smiled as he replied, “True, but a game isn’t decided on the first round of the first run. You may very well take this from us the same way you did last year.”
Chief Tanak laughed out loud, “That would be something, then again your hunters are nimble enough to win it this year.”
After that was said, Kante who was enthralled by the competition called out, “YAY HUNTERS! WHOO!”
Az Zeil saw her cheer for the game, Zeil looked across the field at the stands of zebra and water buffalo who cheered for their favorite teams and players. As he saw this he couldn’t help but smile at the sight. As barbaric and demeaning as the competition seemed, it didn’t matter to any of the spectators. Here it was a view of skill, strategy and confidence. And all who watch were joined together in admiration of that very thing. Even the guard who was supposed to be protecting the two chief’s couldn’t stay focused on his job as he too watched the competition in excitement.

As Zeil smiled at the competition he started to realize what Chief Rafi’s legacy truly meant. A unity of multiple tribes and races all cheering side by side for a competition that brought them together as a whole. Seeing this Zeil stood as he too called, “YOU GOT THIS PREY! SHOW THEM YOU’RE STRENGTH!”
As Zeil sat back down Kante gave him an annoyed look as she pouted, “Traitor…”
Zeil laughed at her reaction as Chief Tanak gave one hard pat on Zeil’s back as he laughed even louder, “There ya go! I knew I liked ya for a reason!”
Rubbing his back from the intense hit, Zeil smiled at the reaction as he and the rest of the group enjoyed the continuation of the exciting Zebrican sport.

Bk9/Ch4 Assembly of the Chiefs

Book 9 / Chapter 4
Assembly of the Chief’s
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 17)

Zeil stood uncomfortably in chains next to Chief Basarum, Lady Zera, and a few of their warriors at the base of the Temple Stairs. As they stood in the open area, there were four other groups standing in lines in front of them as Zeil could only marvel at the sight. Each line, was composed of an assortment of warriors and the chiefs of the other tribes of Zebrica, and ironically enough the appearance of each somehow resembled what their perspective tribe was known for. Chief Basarum and his warriors when compared to the other tribes seemed much more buff and strong making it apparent that their advantage was in their warrior’s skill and strength. The tribe directly in front of them were composed of skinnier warriors, but instead of the assortment of green beads of bone and glass, they wore a dashiki of small metal beads and disks resembling a form of chainmail while wielding spears made of finely sharpened steel that were obviously better than any weapons of the rest of the present tribes. At their front stood a chief that was slightly taller than Chief Basarum, but much skinnier. Because of this, Zeil could only assume this tribe was the Eastern Tribe known for their superior weapons.

The next tribe were just as skinny as the Eastern Tribe but instead of metal dashiki and weaponry, their appearance was an assortment of wooden beads made of different types of wood and even some dried plants. Along with that, they each wore a bandoleer made of plant fibers with an assortment of potion veils filled with different potions that were obviously used for fighting. At the lead of this tribe stood a much older mare who wore her own bandoleer of potions along with golden rings around her neck which seemed common for mares in this nation. Looking at this, Zeil knew without a doubt that this tribe was the Western Tribe, known for their potions and magic. Continuing down the line stood the fourth of the Zebra tribes who from a distance resembled a tribe of ghosts. Each warrior of this tribe like the assassin from the day before, were coated in a thin layer of pail dust with a dashiki made up of bone beads painted in black and white. At the front of this formation stood a shorter but more menacing looking stallion who wore a necklace made up of claws and bones. Though he knew it from the start, Zeil could tell that this was the Southern tribe since their appearance when compared to the savanna gave them a natural camouflage which was a simple strategy in any fight. The fifth and final tribe on the site was the most unusual of all. All the warriors of this tribe were of a different species, zebra, pony, gazelle, ibex, water buffalo, and giraffe. At the lead stood Chief Tanak who Zeil had already known was the leader of the Outer Tribes.

With all tribes assembled, Chief Basarum stepped forward as he panned his eyes over all the tribes and spoke with a somewhat official tone, “Brothers and sisters of the tribes of east, west, south, and the outer regions. Recognize me, for I have assembled you here for a matter of upmost importance.”
After that was said, Chief Basarum looked to the tribe on the far end as that chief stepped forward and spoke, “Chief Basarum, I see and recognize you. Know that Chief Chuma stands before you to speak for the Eastern Tribes.”
As soon as that was said, the eastern warriors standing behind him tapped their metal spears against the ground as they chanted three times. “OH NA, OH NA, OH NA!”
After that was said, Chief Basarum nodded as he looked to the next chief as she stepped forwards and spoke, “Chief Basarum, I see and recognize you. Before you stands Chieftess Mimea, who speaks for the Western Tribe.”
As that was said, her warriors reacted the same way as they tapped their spears on the ground and chanted, “OH NA, OH NA, OH NA!”

Seeing this Basarum nodded again as he looked to the next chief as the pale stallion steppes forward and smiled with a sinister grin, “Chief Basarum, I see and recognize you… I Chief Muji am here to speak for the Southern Tribes.”
With that said, Zeil could feel conflicting auras in the air as the tension was masked by the sound of Muji’s warriors as they too tapped their spears and chanted, “OH NA, OH NA, OH NA!”
Though Zeil could tell Basarum didn’t want to, Chief Basarum nodded as he looked to Chief Tanak who smiled and stepped forward, “Chief Basarum, I am Chief Tanak and I stand here with support of the races of the Outer Tribes. I too see and recognize you.”
Chief Tanak’s warriors didn’t react the same as the rest, instead of tapping their weapons three times they only taped once as they called, “HOO!”
Chief Basarum nodded and panned his eyes across the tribes, “Then as the chief who called this assembly, we can begin as soon as you are ready direct your tribes to rest.”

After that was said, Chief Basarum stepped back as the chief’s turned to their warriors and told them to relax. As that was done, Chief Basarum stopped standing with his high stance as Lady Zera spoke, “Traditions seems to suit you too well.”
Chief Basarum nodded then looked to the Eastern Chief as he called, “Now that formalities are done, Chief Chuma, it’s good to see you again friend. I think the last time was during your wedding celebration was it not?”
Chief Chuma smiled and approached as he replied, “It was, and soon I will be welcoming a little one into my tribe. My wife is with foal.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Congratulation, it’s good to hear.”
Lady Zera approached, “A little one? How wonderful, should I look to your future and tell whether it will be a colt or filly?”
Chief Chuma smiled but shook his head, “That’s alright Lady Oracle, I will leave it to fate to tell me when he or she arrives.”
Zera nodded, “Suit yourself.” She leaned closer to her husband and whispered, “It’s a colt.”

Not hearing her words, Chief Chuma gave the mare a confused look as Basarum couldn’t help but chuckle at the little spoiler. As he laughed, the other two zebra chief’s approached with Chieftess Mimea speaking, “Chief Basarum… I was quite concerned when you of all zebra decided to call this assembly. Of us all, you are particularly a stickler for tradition, so if you called it, then it must be important.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “It is…”
Before he could say more, Chief Muji spoke, “I heard a rogue assassin tried to take your life yesterday… terrible event it was… don’t tell me that that was all it would take to call us all here? I figured that warrior tribe would have a little more backbone then that.”
Chief Basarum gave him an angry expression as he replied, “Don’t act like you didn’t send him yourself. He was of your tribe.”
Chief Muji gave him a threatening glare, “So… I'm responsible for every exile I banish who decides to take his aggression out on other tribes? I hardly see how his actions are any fault of mine. And further more… that seems like a powerful accusation you’re making… chief of the north… exactly what are you saying? Because if you are accusing me of what I think you are… then all you need to do say it, right here and right now.”

As that was said, Chief Muji gave his adversary a provoking glare as Chief Basarum held his composer as he replied, “I will not be the chief that undoes the effort of Chief Jumb Rafi. I will never choose war, when a simple discussion is all it takes… nor will I be cowardly enough to send an assassin to fight my own battles.”
Chief Muji was slightly annoyed with the response as he hid his anger and replied, “A wise action… seems your muscles haven’t replaced your brains after all.”
As the two stared daggers at one another, Chieftess Mimea looked to the chained Zeil as she took a second to examine him from afar. After a few seconds, the mare smiled as she nodded and spoke to Chief Basarum, “If I may… why did you call us here Basarum?” She gestured towards Zeil, “And this stranger… is he the reason?”
Basarum nodded, “He is… but not here… let us go down to the meeting room to speak. I'll fill you all in on the situation.”
After that was said, the four visiting chief’s followed Chief Basarum as they left the area in front of the temple and went around to the side door that lead into the temple’s meeting chamber.

Thirty minutes later in the temple’s bottom chamber. All five chief’s sat around the table with two tome’s sitting in the center of the table as Chief Basarum finished telling Zeil’s story of what happened at the Wooden Pergola Forest. Just as he finished, Chief Muji stood in anger, “THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE!!!”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I agree.”
Muji spoke again, “We all know outsiders can't be trusted!”
Basarum nodded again, “I agree with that also.”
Muji spoke one last time, “What this changeling says is the pinnacle of disrespect to not just the Mage but to Zebrica as a whole!”
Basarum nodded one last time, “I also agree with that too.”

Chief Tanak could only chuckle to himself, “Not that I don’t like seeing Basarum and Muji agree on the something for a change. We should still consider the thought that Sir Zeil could be telling the truth.”
Basarum sighed, “Not to show disrespect Tanak, but the thought that this changeling is a knight also seems too strange. A knight, a master of the Ibex temple, and the Mage?”
Muji added, “And let’s not forget that fact that he has been throwing around names such as Rafi and Zecora. It’s obvious this is a changeling trick. He is using these stories to try to convince you to giving him the power of the mage.”
Chieftess Mimea shook her head, “One cannot simply be given the power of the mage. One can only be born with it, have it awoken, and taught to harness it.”
Muji nodded, “Then that makes it even more obvious that it’s a lie.”

Chief Chuma spoke up, “Don’t jump to conclusions too soon Muji, let us not forget the evidence that was presented as proof.” He looked to the Northern Chief, “Basarum… this book, have you checked its authenticity?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I have…” he shifted both books on the table to face him as he opened the back covers and continued, “I brought out the book that Mage Magi left, and compared it to the book that Zeil brought.”
Chief Muji nodded, “And?...”
Basarum continued, “Both books are exactly identical, to include the text inside, the spells to protect their contents and the fact that they are made with real leather which is rumored to be the flesh of the first mage. However the book presented by Zeil is older and more weathered. And the final page which bears the names of each mage since the first has an extra name on it, while the previous names are the same as the tome left to me by Mage Magi.”
Chief Chuma asked, “And is that extra name Zeil’s?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “I can't say, only the mage can read the text. Even if I tried to decipher the symbols, the book would only rearrange them to make it difficult.”
Chief Muji smiled, “And I don’t need to remind you that if we asked the changeling he will just lie and tell us it’s him.”
Chieftess Mimea thought to herself as she replied, “Hmm… Time travel… I’ve known there are spells out there for such actions, but I’ve never heard of one that a zebra or changeling was capable of. Without the use of a unicorn horn I can't see how such magic can be possible.”
Chief Tanak asked, “Basarum? What about lady Zera?”
Chief Chuma smiled, “Yes what does the Lady Oracle have to say about him? Did she look into his future?”

Chief Basarum sighed with disappointment, “I confronted her about this last night, and she stated, that she had been trying to see his future since the day he arrived. But no matter how hard she tried, it remained hidden from her view. She never held concern since he seemed honest and pure, she assumed he wouldn’t be a threat.”
Chief Muji smiled, “There ya see? Since she saw nothing that means he has no future! Simply put at the conclusion of this meeting we kill him and be done with it.”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “Not exactly, any who know the secret of the three forbidden spells are tried and charged for a crime against existence. That punishment lends a scolding of the placement mark, a fifteen year confinement in a welded iron cell, then execution by unknown means to follow.”
Muji continued, “Unknown?”
Chief Chuma added, “The execution has never been carried out. All have committed suicide prior to that point. Being locked away with nothing to look forward to but death for fifteen years has a bad effect on the mind.”

Chief Tanak thought to himself, “Then… how is it that Lady Zera hasn’t seen his future?”
Chieftess Mimea explained, “The mage’s power is the same power that Lucifer carried. It predates all races and magic. The oracle sees with magic she inherited at birth, meaning that the mage’s power can conceal his future from her sight.”
Muji continued, “Reason aside, I still refuse to accept this. My brother was the last mage, he was a noble and respectable stallion. To consider this changeling as anything similar disrespects his memory.”
Chief Chuma nodded, “The loss of Mage Magi was a terrible one, but it’s been well over twenty years now and we must move on. Fact of the matter is that we need to come to a decision. Right now there is a soul chained up outside that is waiting for either his fate to be fulfilled or to be condemned. So… if everyone is ready… perhaps it’s time we move onto the vote.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Agreed, I'm ready… what about you Tanak?”
The water buffalo nodded, “I’ve been ready since we started this meeting. Any others need more time to decide?”

The room responded with silence as Chief Basarum nodded as he stood, “Then… it’s time we move to the vote. From hear each chief will stand and state both their vote and reasoning. Once a vote is stated, it cannot be changed. Will we accept that Zeil is the next mage and move onto training him to become so?... or will we decide that he is a criminal for knowing the secret of the three forbidden spells and condemn for the crime against existence?”
Chief Chuma asked, “The real question is are you ready chief? You know, should we vote him the mage, it is you who will be training him, after all… you were chosen as the Enchanter of Light.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I will agree with whatever the results of the vote. Despite my opinion, I honor the decision of the assembly. It is tradition after all that the assembly’s word is final.”
Chief Chuma nodded, “Very well, then as Tradition states, we will start with the Outer Tribes.” He looked to Chief Tanak, “Chief?...”
Seeing that all eyes were on him, Chief Tanak stood, “I’ve only met Sir Zeil recently, and though it was only brief, I learned a lot about his personality. I’ve learned he is kind hearted, responsible, carful, respectable, and though he doesn’t talk much about his past, he has seemed honest with what he has spoken of despite his modesty. So I for one believe he is truly one chosen by the mage, and I Chief Tanak of the Outer Tribes, vote that we train him to fulfill his role as mage of Zebrica.”

At that moment Chief Muji rolled his eyes, “Figures the water buffalo would partner with a changeling.”
Tanak gave Muji an angry look and sat back down as Chief Basarum spoke, “Alright Muji? We all know your vote but in keeping of tradition… state your official reasoning and vote.”
Sighing in annoyance, Chief Muji stood and spoke as if he were addressing a larger group, “My brother Mage Magi, was set to be the keeper of darkness and to fulfill his role as the Mage of Zebrica. But this… mockery that stands and claims the same roll is nothing more then an insult to him, his legacy, and the rest of us. I refuse to acknowledge Zeil as anything other than a changeling trying to con his way into learning the secrets of the mage. I Chief Muji of the Southern Tribes vote that we burn this fake tome before us, and execute this imposter before he has a chance to insult us further. I know my brother wouldn’t stand for this, so why should we?”

As Muji sat back down, Chief Basarum nodded, “I suppose that’s as good a reason as any…” he looked to the Eastern Chief, “Chief Chuma? Your next, what is your vote?”
Chief Chuma stood in his place and spoke just as the chiefs before him, “Unlike Chief Basarum and Chief Muji, I hold no personal connection to the previous mage or the previous Enchanter of Light. And unlike Chief Tanak, I have yet to speak with Mr Zeil or to have a chance to gauge his personality. So, of all the chiefs here, I feel I am voting more blindly then all else. All I have to judge on, is hearsay and witnesses of Zeil’s actions and attitude while here in Zebrica. He claims he is a master of the ibex temple, a knight, and the future mage of Zebrica. Because these are his words, I can't judge them properly. However, witnesses stated he arrived from Captain Crimson Sail’s ship, and was addressed by Princess Skystar of the Hippogriff Kingdom as a friend to her nation… is that right Chief Tanak?”
Chief Tanak nodded, “Yes, and Zeil said nothing about these claims until I confronted him about them. So it shows his modesty on the subject.”
Chief Chuma nodded, “Not to mention the few times that he has reportedly saved the lives of a Northern Tribe filly and the Northern Chief as well. So, it is with this, that I Chief Chuma of the Eastern Tribe, deem Zeil’s claim truthful, and vote to accept that he truly is the future Mage of Zebrica. As well as suggest that he be trained to fufill the duties set forth by the position.”

Annoyed by the vote, Chief Muji tapped his hoof on the table in frustration as Chief Tanak smiled, “So… its two to one now… Chief Basarum? Your next.”
As Chief Chuma sat down, Chief Basarum sighed as he stood and spoke, “Zeil arrived at my tribe as all outsiders do. And like all outsider’s I didn’t trust him the moment I saw him. But, in the short amount of time her, he assisted the tribe on standard actions thereby earning his keep. He has developed trust with most of the tribe and even saved the lives of Sister Kante and myself when we were threatened on two separate occasions. If you were to ask any of my tribe’s brothers or sisters they would claim that he is practically a brother to this tribe even though I refuse to allow him to claim such a title. If any outsider could, I feel that Zeil could change my entire view on the outside world… However… despite what he has done for the tribe, how many lives he has saved, and the honesty he has shown… he remains an outsider, and one who knows too much about the mage and the three forbidden spells… so I still don’t trust him.”

The room was surprised by his words, as Chief Basarum continued, “I Chief Basarum of the Northern Tribes, Vote that we do not train him to become the Mage of Zebrica. To place the darkness of the mage in the hooves of a stranger is too great a risk. And I don’t want any part of it. Though I don’t like placing the decision to train him or kill him as our only options… I still feel that he committed a crime, and we must follow tradition, no matter how harsh it may seem.”
Chief Tanak tried to speak, “Basarum? Are you serious? He saved your li-“
“I will not pass the title of mage to an outsider so easily! I owe him my life but not the lives of my entire tribe… and I won’t change my mind or my vote on this matter. I don’t think I have to remind you why.”
Chief Tanak sighed as he mumbled, “Zee Zee… even you have to let that go someday.” He spoke up, “If that is your vote… then it is final. And so… its all down to Chieftess Mimea, she will be the tie breaker for this vote…” he looked to the mare, “Chieftess?”

Both Tanak and Basarum sat back down as the Chieftess thought to herself for a few seconds before standing and speaking with authority, “Twenty years ago… the Mage Magi came to this tribe as instructed by the mage before him. He came here to be trained by the Enchanter of Light who at the time was Chief Basarum’s father and chief of the Northern Tribes. Upon completing his training, he set out for the final trial of which… he was never seen or heard from again. But… that’s when it started. As you all recall the following summer, we were hit with a drought that caused many of our tribe brothers and sisters to starve. And after that, it continued. The fall of the marble oases in the land of the black sand, the sinking of the Isle Demeter in the Atlantian Sea. The return of Nightmare Moon and the Draconequus Discord in Equestria. The large scale invasions of the Storm King, the return of the Dark Alicorn of Eden take your pick. All, action brought onto the world not by misfortune… but by lack of balance. The Mage of Zebrica is the weight meant to balance the scale. And without him… we have all suffered. As the Chieftess of the Western Tribes I know what magic runs this world and what will become of it should this imbalance continues. We sit as we discuss who Zeil is, but we have yet to ponder what it means for him to be who he claims? I cannot say he is a noble stallion, nor can I claim that what he learns in training will not be turned against us in the future. But, if what he claims is true, then we have already made this decision. Though it may be in another’s time, he has already become what he is here to become. And if we risk changing that… then we risk far worse then merely teaching an enchanter to wield a magic that he does not and will never hold. So… As Chieftess of the Western Tribes, I vote that we teach Mr. Zeil to become the mage, so that if he is who he claims, then he can finally bring the balance that we have longed to see again.”

Chief Muji slammed his hoof on the table as he stood and spoke, “YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!?!”
The Chieftess replied with a stern look, “That is my vote, and it is final.”
The angry chief pointed at her, “You can't do this!”
Mimea glared back, “I can and I will.”
“I will not allow my brother’s legacy to be ins-”
“THIS GOES BEYOND YOU AND YOUR BROTHER’S LEGACY!” the angry mare looked to Basarum and added, “Or you and your foalish intolerance of those outside Zebrica!” she paned back over the room, “What’s happened in the past happened! You need to stop being selfish and think of somezebra other than yourselves! Need I remind you that my village until recently had been suffering from a plague? It was the same ingredients delivered by Captain Sail that allowed us to make the medicine needed to stop it from killing more of my brothers and sisters. To discover that Zeil came from that very ship cannot be a coincidence. An enchantress such as I know fate when I see it, or magic when I sense it. If Zeil claims to be the world’s first changeling mage, then I can say that he must have a reason for it. Lucifer’s power isn’t bestowed to just any random creature, it is always passed to the one of his own creation who is better suited to bring balance when it is needed most. My vote is casted… it is final…. and so?...”

Chieftess Mimea looked to Chief Basarum as the disappointed chief sighed before speaking, “The vote is casted… so… the assembly has decided.” He stood form his seat, “The vote is passed, three to two. Starting tomorrow, I Chief Basarum of the Northern Tribe will begin training Zeil to become the Future Mage of Zebrica.”
Chief Tanak asked, “You sure? You voted that he wouldn’t be the mage, can you still train him with that opinion of him?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “If it were any other circumstance, I wouldn’t… but he did mark me as the next Enchanter of Light, and the assembly decided that he become the mage, so it seems I have no choice.”
Chieftess Mimea nodded, “Then I hope you train him well Basarum. All of our tribes depend on your guidance.”
Basarum nodded as he looked over the table, “Then this concluded this assembly. Let’s go up an-“
Chief Muji stood as he spoke, “Wait… First… I must ask.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes? What is your question?”
Muji sighed, “Basarum. Are you really going to do this? Though we do not agree on much we both hold personal feelings for the last mage and his actions. Do you really want to disrespect my brother and your father by continuing this?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Magi was a good friend… in those days I considered you both brothers. But… as we know, times have changed. The final trial claimed your brother, and my father’s failer claimed him. But what Chieftess Mimea says remains true, and… I feel it’s time we move on even if I don’t like it.”

Chieftess Mimea nodded as she stood, “Then this assembly is officially concluded. Chief Basarum, know that like every mage, we of the Western Tribes will lend any support needed to see his training through.”
Chief Tanak nodded, “As will we, the mage effects all of Zebrica, and the Outer Tribes are no different.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he stood, “Understood, Thank you. I will report his status as the completion of his training nears. Till then, I hope you will be patient. It took eight years for Mage Magi to be ready for the final trial, so I can only assume Zeil will take that long.”
As that was said, all chief’s excluding Muji nodded in agreement as they all stood and left the room through the only entrance. As the group exited the temple, they made their way around to the front of the monument and approached the area where their warriors were standing by. As the chief’s approached, they each stood side by side in front of their warriors as Chief Basarum called, “The assembly is concluded and we have made a decision. Zeil… Step forward.”

Although he was still in chains, Zeil took a few steps forward as Chief Basarum spoke, “Zeil, the crimes that you are accused of are dire… but we have decided that you are justified in their mention and will be released without charge. Also… Starting tomorrow, you will begin training under me. Just know, that this was a united vote by all five chief’s before you. It would be wise to appreciate their generosity.”
Trying to seem grateful without gloating, Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Then you all have my thanks.”
The chief’s excluding Muji nodded in acceptance as Chief Basarum spoke, “That concludes the Assembly. Warriors, await your chief’s instruction.”

With that said, the chief’s broke away from the row they were standing in as they each approached their warriors and gave them orders. As Chief Muji approached his troops, the lead warrior asked, “Chief, is everything alright?”
Chief Muji replied with anger in his tone, “We are leaving, make sure we are all here and ready to depart.” He looked twords Zeil, “I have something to say to this fake first.”
After that was said Chief Muji started trotting towards Zeil with a hostile expression on his face. Seeing this, Chief Basarum looked to the guards who were unchaining Zeil’s hooves as he yelled, “Hujambo!”
Hearing the call, the warriors quickly turned to the approaching Muji as they shifted their spears to the side making them cross between Zeil and the approaching chief as if to protect him from the chief’s anger.

With this stopping him from approaching Chief Muji stopped where he was as he spoke, “You… Zeil…”
Zeil nodded, “Yes chief?”
Chief Muji looked around to see that everyzebra in the area to include all the other chief’s warriors and even a few spectators from the Northern Tribes were looking at him as he spoke out loud so he could be heard, “You come here, and claim to be the next mage of Zebrica! Don’t make me laugh… your nothing but a fraud, preying on the ignorance of a naive tribe. You speak of familiar names like Zecora and Rafi only to play us a fool, you’re not even a zebra.”
After that was said, Zeil could feel worry coming from all who heard those words as Zeil replied, to the chief’s anger, “I only said what I was told to say by the Mage of Zebrica. I played no fool nor did I lie about anything I claimed.”

Chief Muji replied with a low tone so that he and Zeil could only hear, “What about Zecora?... did you lie to her too? Exactly what did you tell her to make her fall in love with you? or was that too a ploy just to feed on her love… I bet she doesn’t even know you’re a changeling… am I right?”
Although Zeil didn’t reply his expression said all it needed to as Chief Muji smiled, “I see… so you are what you claim to be… you’re no different from any other changeling in this world… a coward in disguise.” He chuckled for a moment then continued with a threatening tone, “I'll let you play your little game for now… but know this… my brother was the last mage… and if I find that you intent to use his magic to disgrace him or any of us further… I will return with my army, and I will hunt you down and kill you… even if I have to raise this village to ash. Get the picture?”
Although Zeil tried to tolerate the offensive actions from the Southern tribe chief, his words about Zecora still got to him as he replied with a threatening glare and a response, “Next time you send an assassin to this village… better make him worth my time.”

As that was said, Chief Muji wanted to fight his way through the protecting guards but the expression on Zeil’s face caused him to back down as he turned and trotted away, “Watch your back changeling…” he looked to his warriors, “Southern Tribe! Move out!”
With an angry step, Chief Muji trotted alongside his warriors as they trotted away from the temple and out of the norther tribe’s village. After he was gone Chief Tanak laughed out loud as he started to approach Zeil. Seeing that this chief was less hostile the warriors allowed Tanak to pass as the water buffalo patted Zeil on the back with his usual strength as he spoke, “Now that was a sight to see! Even when threatened you have a tongue sharper than any spear. You will make one heck of a mage someday Zeil. I have a good feeling about you.”
Zeil smiled as he rubbed his back and replied with an embarrassed tone, “Thanks, I… don’t really know what came over me?”
Chief Chuma approached as he spoke, “Looks like the essence of the Darkness showed itself. Even if for a moment. Luckily you didn’t attack him, that at least shows you bear some control over it.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Yea, I had a little practice containing it a bit… although, its isn’t easy… and that’s been the first time it has shown itself in a long while.”

Chief Chuma smiled as he placed his hoof on Zeil’s shoulder, “That only means you are that much closer to controlling it. It would seem I made a wise decision on my vote. I think we are in good hooves.”
Zeil smiled as he bowed his head slightly, “Thank you Chief Chuma, as I said before, I appreciate the decision of the assembly.”
Before he could raise his head back up, Zeil felt a hoof grip his head as he opened his eyes to see Chieftess Mimea examining him closely, “Hmm… a strong chin, a noble tone… yes… I have no doubt.” She released him, “you truly have the makings of the Mage of Zebrica in you. I hope you can bring balance to the world Mage Zeil. We truly are in need of it.”
Seeing the hope in her expression Zeil smiled and nodded, “I will do my best Chieftess, for you and for Zebrica.”
She smiled, “And for Zecora I'm assuming… seems she chose a fine suiter in such a faraway land. Maybe now Chief Basarum can lighten up.”
Zeil was confused, “Wait what?”

The Chieftess smiled as she replied, “Oh don’t pay him too much mind. He is just angry that she chose to stay in Equestria instead of returning to finish her training. Though if you ask me, she finished a long time before she left. He was just too ashamed to admit that she surpassed him so easily.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “I'm not sure if that’s true, but I’d believe it.”
The Wise Chieftess nodded as she started trotting passed him, “If you ever find your way passed the Western Tribes during your training, feel free to stop by. We have been waiting for a long time to see the world’s magic in balance. So you will be welcomed by my tribe.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Thank you chief I'll keep that in mind.”
The mare nodded, “Chieftess… and you are very welcome.”

After that was said, the three foreign chief’s approached their warriors and prepared to depart back to their perspective tribes as Chief Basarum approached Zeil and spoke, “Well… looks like fortune is smiling on you… for now at least.”
Zeil felt skeptic, “You say that as if you’re disappointed.”
Basarum nodded, “Not disappointed… just skeptic. If Chieftess Mimea says you are who you say you are, then I believe her. But that doesn’t mean I'm going to enjoy teaching you. First off, what do you know so far about magic?”
Zeil thought to himself, “Well… balance in mind and body, advanced focus, potion brewing, potion quality, ice magic, water magic, standard and advanced remedies, and I’ve also met my spiritual guide if that counts.”
Surprised that he knew so much, Chief Basarum replied, “Okay, and who is your guide?”
Zeil hesitated before replying, “Well… Chief Rafi.”
Chief Basarum sighed, “Of course he is…” he rubbed his head in irritation and mumbled to himself, “If this is true, this guy is practically overqualified.”
Zeil didn’t hear him, “What was that?”
Basarum shook his head, “Nothing… for now your free to go. Take the day to enjoy your pardon, but be ready for training tomorrow.”
Zeil nodded, “Sure, what time?”
Basarum turned away as he replied, “I'll come find you when it’s time… just be ready.”

Without giving Zeil time to reply, Chief Basarum trotted away as Kante rushed up to Zeil and spoke, “Is it true? Are you really going to be the m-… I mean… you know who?”
Remembering that it was forbidden to speak of the mage Zeil nodded, “I am, I met the last one in another land and he chose me to be the next. That’s why I needed to learn magic from the Chief.”
Kante smiled as she replied, “Wow… that’s amazing and to think you’re the one teaching me how to fi-“
Zeil stopped her, “Don’t finish that… remember we can't talk about that here.”
As the two continued taking, Chief Basarum started trotting towards the stairs to the temple towards his wife as the oracle spoke, “You made a good decision husband… perhaps, while you train Zeil, you too will grow in some way.”
Chief Basarum paused as he replied, “Actually… if I'm honest, I don’t know how much I can teach. Most of what he needed to learn is known. I'm starting to wonder if he can take on the final trial now or not.”
The oracle looked towards Zeil as she replied, “It’s possible… I still can't see his future… however… I do see him in my future numerous times in the near future so his training may take a while.”
Chief Basarum sighed, “Then there is more to teach.”
Zera gave him a curious look, “You doubt him? Or… do you doubt yourself?”
Chief Basarum didn’t reply, instead he only continued up the steps to the top of the temple without a word. As he trotted away Lady Zera nodded, “So it’s both then…” She looked back at Zeil, “Zecora? What have you tamed in your absence? And in what way will he impact this world we live in?”

Bk9/Ch5 Blood Rose

Book 9 / Chapter 5
Blood Rose
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 18)

Kante thrusted her spear as accurately as she could but once again Zeil was too quick as he used a bladeless staff to deflect her attack and parry her away. Reacting Kante countered by spinning and swinging her spear in a horizontal swipe. This time instead of parrying the attack, Zeil only blocked it as he spoke, “Stop swinging in anger… Focus… look for my openings, expect I'll block those openings and know how to counter once I do.”
After that was said, Zeil pushed Kante back as the small filly landed a number of feet away and tried again to charge and strike her opponent. Like before, Zeil could easily see her movements as he blocked three more of her attempts before pushing her back again as he spoke, “Still too slow!”
This time as Kante landed a few feet away, Zeil placed the end of his staff against the ground as he slid his weapon across the ground with enough speed to kick up dust and sand as Kante shielded her eyes from the airborne debris.

Though it was brief, Zeil used Kante’s moment of inactivity as he thrusted his staff through the dust as he accurately placed it against the blade of her spear before quickly rotating it around in her hoof loosening her grip with each rotation. Before Kante could realize what was happening, Zeil flung his staff upwards and away with enough force to disarm the young filly sending her spear into the air as it flew over their heads and embedded itself into the thatch roof of her hut nearby. After that was done, Zeil spun around using the same staff to kick her hooves out from under her, causing the young warrior to fall to the ground. Continuing his movements, Zeil quickly placed the end of his staff against Kante’s chest stopping her reactions before she was able to pick herself up. With Kante now on the ground, the young filly glared as Zeil, “That’s not fair! You kicked dust into my face, then yo-”
“Disarmed you before you could react… yes but that’s where you lost. You can choose to fight for honor or you can choose to fight to survive… never both. It’s all about what you’re fighting for. Sometimes it can be for honor if you’re fighting to protect your family or home, but other times it’s simply to stay alive. So when that’s the case, you should focus on just that. Surviving the fight. If it means using dirty tactics or what can be seen as cheating then so be it. The key is to be the last one standing when it’s all over.”

Annoyed that she didn’t understand it from the start, Kante sighed as she picked herself up, “Fine… that seems understandable. If it were an actual fight warrior to warrior then I would have lost.”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, and an added lesson. To win you need to understand one of three things. Know your surroundings, your opponent and yourself. Surroundings being the landscape, the terrain, and what can be used in a fight. Your opponent being his weaknesses, his goals, strife, and what he is willing to do to win. And finally yourself, being your own weaknesses, your disadvantages against your opponent and how you can use them to gain the upper hand. By knowing any of these three things, you can win in a fight against any warrior.”
Kante thought to herself as she replied, “Really?... I should remember this. It could help me somda-“
before she could finish, Zeil could feel Chief Basarum’s aura approaching as he looked in the direction and spoke with haste, “Kante, the chief is coming!”
Kante nodded as she took Zeil’s staff and replied, “Got it… I'll go put this away… what about my spear?”
Zeil looked to the top of the hut to see the somewhat obvious weapon lodged in its roof as he replied, “leave it… there is no time to get it now. He is too close, quickly go inside.”

Nodding in agreement, Kante rushed into her hut to hide the staff as Zeil turned around and trotted towards Chief Basarum as he spoke, “Chief, good morning… um… how are you doing today?”
Chief Basarum replied with an unamused tone, “It’s the afternoon…”
Zeil looked up at the sun as he replied, “Oh… will you look at that. I guess I got up a little later than usual. I'm just here checking on Kante, seeing if she was alright.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Alright… well… are you ready to begin training?”
At that moment Kante stepped into the doorway of her hut as she spoke, “Oh, um chief, Zeil how are you two doing today?”
Zeil replied, “I guess we are going to begin our training, so um… I'll see you later.”
Nervous, Kante replied, “Oh… well um… good luck then.”

The two stallion nodded as Chief Basarum replied, “Then, let’s be off…”
With that said, Zeil followed as Chief Basarum trotted away from the hut and towards the edge of the village. As they trotted along, Chief Basarum spoke, “So… a spear in the roof. Perhaps your next lesson to Kante should be to keep a better hold on her weapon. Or was it she who disarmed you? If so she is progressing well.”
Zeil felt nervous, “Wait… what?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “You don’t think you can train a warrior behind my back in my own tribe and not let me find out about it? Please, even you can give me a little more credit than that.”
Zeil continued following as he replied, “How long have you known?”
Chief Basarum replied, “I found out the third day you were here.”
Zeil was confused, “And… you didn’t stop me?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “No… I’ve spent the better part of the last two years trying to stop her. So… I felt it was inevitable. Besides, its better she learn from one she trusts then to continue wandering into the hunting grounds alone. Otherwise it was only a matter of time before she finds herself at the mercy of another leopard pride.”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “Well… I guess you’re right. I know you’re worried about her becoming a warrior because you don’t want her to get hurt, but if she hurts herself trying to become a warrior behind your back then what’s the point.”
Chief Basarum gave him a curious look, “What? Why would you think that, that is the reason I didn’t want her to become a warrior?”
Zeil replied, “Because she said so herself. She said you refuse to teach her because you don’t want her to get hurt.”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “That’s not the reason at all.”
Zeil was confused, “Really? Then why don’t you teach her to fight?”
Chief Basarum hesitated for a few second before replying, “That… is my own buissness. Anyways, if you’re insistent on training her, then do as you want… just…”
Zeil gave him a distrusting look, “Just?”
Basarum replied with a smiled, “Give her memories she can enjoy. Kante has had a very unfortunate life, and after losing both her parents, she seems to have adopted you as a brother. So by all means, treat her like a little sister, if you can that is.”

Zeil nodded as he thought about the odd request before replying, “I'll try.”
Basarum was concerned, “Try?”
Zeil nodded, “We changelings… we have an odd view on the idea of… siblings.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Ah… I see. If I understand right, your kind are born in the thousands to a single queen right?”
Zeil nodded, “Not to that extent but, yes, if we were to address it as ponies do, my mother would be queen chrysalis and I’d have at least three hundred twin sisters and brothers. But to us changelings there are only a select few we actually consider brother and sister. So to me… I have three brothers and no sisters… or… I had anyways.”
Chief Basarum gave him a curious look, “Had?...”
Zeil’s expression became down as he replied, “I lost one of my brothers a few years ago… and the other two, I haven’t seen since Equestria.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I see…”

Zeil gave Chief Basarum a curious look, though he didn’t show it, Zeil could tell that Basarum’s emotions seemed sympathetic to Zeil as if he had the same situation happen to him before. However before Zeil could aske, Basarum smiled, “I guess I understand the concept, though my experience is quite the opposite. I had no blood siblings, but when I was young, the current mage of Zebrica arrived in the southern tribes and informed Mage Magi that he was chosen to be the next mage, and that his teacher the enchanter of light would be my father. My father graciously agreed to teach Magi and permitted both he and his younger brother Muji brother to live here in the Northern Tribes. While they were here, both Magi and Muji became close friends to the tribe and myself. So much in fact that I considered them both brothers.”
Zeil felt unsure as he replied, “Wait… wasn’t Chief Muji the one who sent the assassin to kill you?”

Chief Basarum nodded, “I'm getting to that. Anyways… after about four years into Magi’s training, it was announced that the eldest son of the southern tribes was to become the husband of the next oracle. So to allow the two to get to know each other, Zera was asked to move into the Northern tribes to stay with him prior to their marriage. So after moving here from the Western tribe, Zera quickly became a member of the family. However, when Mage Magi started to near the end of his training, Zera became distressed. The oracle is incapable of looking into the Mages future due to the power he possesses but when she looked into her own in hopes of seeing him by her side at the alter… he was nowhere to be seen. Though he assured her that it wasn’t anything to worry about, she knew well, that the day he would set out for the final trial, would be the last they would ever see each other. And so after he left… Mage Magi was never seen again. Less than year after he left, Muji returned to his tribe to begin his preparation of becoming the southern tribe chief. But shortly afterwards, he was met with a terrible tragedy. The summer after Mage Magi left, Zebrica was hit with a terrible drought that killed a vast majority of our food supply. It was so severe that all five tribes had to combine their resources to ensure survival. Though many would die by starvation before this could be made possible. And with those unfortunate few, stood both chief Muji’s mother and father.”

Zeil was surprised, “Wait… you mean that both his parents died the same year that Magi didn’t return?”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “Yes… and as we know, when so much tragedy takes place at once, it can cause one to become bitter. Chief Muji felt that he had been wronged in some way but at the time he didn’t focus his blame on any one zebra… until… the following year, when Zera’s betrothal to the eldest son of the southern tribe was canceled, as passed on to the Northern Tribe instead.”
Zeil gave Basarum a surprised look as the chief continued, “When Mage Magi didn’t return, Zera fell into a pit of despair that seemed endless. Since I was the only one there, I consoled her through those hard times, and seeing this made the assembly of chief’s change their mind. In a vote of four to one the tribal chiefs to include my father and Chief Muji decided that since Mage Magi’s return seemed unlikely, that the oracle of Zebrica would become the wife of the Chief closest to her. In other words, me.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “So in that vote of four to one… Muji was a chief then so he was the one who voted against the betrothal, wasn’t he?”
Basarum nodded, “Yes, after Muji heard that the chiefs wanted me to be the one to marry Zera, he assumed that this was my plan from the very start. He thought that I was somehow jealous of Magi Magi’s power and privilege that I would set out to steal it from him. He accused me a sabotaging mage Magi’s final trial and tricking his betrothed into falling in love with me. He actually believes that I could possibly hurt one of my own brothers and take his wife as my own. And it’s this belief that has driven him into hatred and anger.”

Chief Basarum sighed in disappointment as he continued with a slight slowing in his pace, “Since that day, Chief Muji has made every attempt to either accuse me of killing his brother and stealing his wife, or making me look like an unworthy chief in front of my or the other tribes. Most were simple attempts to frame me for crimes that his tribe was responsible for, but others even went as far as… well… attempts at assassination, or trying to provoke a declaration of war.”
Zeil felt confused, “But… why would he try to provoke you into war when he could just declare it himself?”
Basarum replied, “Because whoever is the first to declare war would obviously be disrespecting all that Chief Rafi fought to establish. Peace between all tribes.”
A different voice replied, “And any who disrespect that peace will have no support for the other tribes should war be the decision.”
Zeil and Basarum looked down the road as they saw Lady Zera approaching from their destination as she continued, “To disrespect Rafi’s efforts is an insult to all of Zebrica. And no chief, rival, ally, or friend will ever support one who disrespects all like that.”

Zeil smiled as he nodded and greeted the mare, “Good afternoon Lady Zera. I guess what you’re saying make since.”
Zera smiled as she changed the subject, “So, you’re off to begin your training to become the mage? I knew you had something special about you.”
Zeil smiled, “As if you didn’t see it from the very start?”
Lady Zera smiled as she nodded, “Actually… I couldn’t.”
Zeil gave her a confused look as Chief Basarum nodded, “As I said moments ago, the Oracle is incapable of seeing the mage’s future. It has something to do with his power predating her own.”
Zera nodded, “So… you couldn’t see my future at all? Then… why didn’t you shun me like Chief Basarum?”
Zera smiled, “That’s easy, because I have incredible intuition. While my husband… can't seem to keep an open mind.”
Chief Basarum gave her an annoyed look she turned and followed the two on their path.

As they continued, Zeil had another question for the oracle, “Um lady Zera? I'm curious… about your ability to see the future… I had something similar happen to me once, though… what I saw was more of the distant past.”
Zera was curious, “The Past? How so?”
Zeil replied, “Well, I stumbled upon a city called Lilith. And when I arrived I found that the place had been under a curse that had lasted for a few millennia, but the vision I had was of the day it became cursed. It was as clear as if I had seen it firsthand. Is that what your visions are like?”
Zera shook her head, “Actually… no they are not. When I force myself to look into the future, the visions are hazy and never clear to whom they may concern. It’s as if I am standing in a room with shadows acting out a scene. The only real reason I can understand what happens is because I usually can tell who they are by the subject I'm looking into. For example if I were to look into my husband’s future I may see a room in the center of the temple with a number of shadows bickering around a table. But since I know it’s my husband’s future, I can assume it’s a meeting between him and the other tribal chiefs. Though when visions come to me naturally, they are much clearer. But what you saw, was most likely your own ability.”

Zeil was confused, “My own ability? What do you mean?”
Chief Basarum replied, “It was a message to you about something you needed to look into. Since you are meant to be the mage, occasionally you may get visions about an imbalance in the area that you must adress. So whatever vision you had was what you were supposed to see as the mage. My question is… did you balance whatever event you saw?”
Zeil thought to himself as he nodded, “Yes I think so…”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Good, then there isn’t anything to worry about. Your vision was simply what you were supposed to see. A hint to what imbalance was nearby and what must be done to fix it.”
Zera nodded, “As the mage, you are meant to keep balance, and if you have visions similar to those, then you must ensure balance is kept. Though that may also mean that if you have a vision of the future, then that future may be possible to change. Unlike my visions.”

Zera’s Expression sank as Zeil could only feel sadness from the mare as Chief Basarum changed the subject, “Never the less… we’re here.”
Although he wanted to ask Zera about her comment, Zeil still looked forwards as he saw a large patch of white roses sitting in front of him as he spoke, “Wow, I’ve never seen roses so white before… wait… are those the Blood Roses I’ve heard so much about?”
Seeing his confusion, Lady Zera replied, “Oh? Were you expecting something else?”
Zeil nodded, “Well, I just assumed with a name like Blood Rose, they would be a little more… red.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Well, the reason they call these Blood Roses aren’t because of their color.”
Lady Zera smiled, “Yes you see, these roses have an ability of their own. They are the most fragile plant in the world, but they are also one of the most terrifying.”
Zeil was confused, “Terrifying? How so?”
Chief Basarum gestured towards the roses as he replied, “See for yourself… touch one.”

As Zeil heard the statement, he felt somewhat worried. He knew about plants as poisonous as the Moon Weed, and as mischievous as the Poison Joke so to be told that this one was terrifying and to also be suggested to touch it seemed uneasy as he looked at the roses then to lady Zera who only gestured and replied with the same suggestion, “Do not worry, the rose is somewhat unnerving but… I promise, its safe.”
Though her explanation didn’t fully convince him, Zeil still felt that it was a crucial part of his training as he gave a bracing sigh and replied, “Okay… here goes.”
Worried, Zeil approached the closest of the snow white roses as he raised his hoof and gently caressed the rose blossom at the top of the small thorny stem. As soon as he touched the rose, Zeil thought his mind would be filled with vision of darkness or that he would immediately feel weekend by some unruly magic, but after touching the plant, Zeil felt confused that nothing happened. After seeing no ill effects from the plant Zeil turned back to the two zebra as he spoke, “I don’t understand, what make this rose so ter-“
All of a sudden, Zeil felt a strange feeling run down the side of his hoof as he looked back to the plant and moved both his head and his hoof around so he could get a good look at what was causing this feeling. However as soon as he saw what it was, Zeil jumped back away from the rose and stared at it in fear, “Wh-what the?”

As Zeil quickly examined his hoof again he felt worried when he discovered that the strange feeling he felt was blood running down his hoof and dripping onto the ground. Worried, Zeil quickly wiped away the blood and examined his hoof for the wound that the plant had given him but when he found no wound on him at all, he felt both concerned and confused, “Wh-what was that? Was… was that an illusion?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “No… that blood was as real as you and I. the color, the texture, smell, even the taste… that blood was your own.”
Zeil looked at the rose in fear, “Wh-what? But… how?”
Lady Zera smiled, “The Blood Rose is by far the most terrifying plant in existence… not because it can cause any simple harm or curse, but because of the physiological effect it has on those who encounter it.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “The Blood Rose has the ability to sense the magic in all living things. Though it doesn’t have eyes, it can see everything and everyone around it. And when one touches it, it immediately identifies what creature you are, then bleeds the same blood that you hold. If a creature with yellow or blue blood were to touch the Blood Rose, then that is the color blood that would be running down their hoof.”
Zeil looked at the remnant of the blood that was on his hoof as he replied, “So… there was no real wound there?”

Lady Zera approached the rose as she replied, “There wasn’t… but then again, those who don’t understand this rose don’t know that. Any who encounter this plant and make contact with it see blood and are terrified of the wound that this plant created and the fact that they didn’t feel any pain when it was made. Though even after discovering that there is no wound, there are very few to test the plant a second time. Instead, they along with any animal who encounter this rose simply avoid it altogether. It’s a survival instinct that both this rose and all living things share. To not encounter that which makes you bleed.”
Zeil approached the rose again as he looked at the blood that was still dripping from the rose blossom, “Wow, that truly is terrifying.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he too approached a rose and spoke, “The ability of this rose is to sense those around it and to react with blood in hopes of warding any who choose to harm it… however, if one is able to hid their magic completely, they will be able to hide their very presence form this rose… and as a result…”
Chief Basarum reached up and picked the rose from the ground as he held the blossom towards Zeil allowing the changeling to see that not a single drop of blood came from the rose, “Then, one can pluck it from the very earth without spilling a single drop.”

Surprised, Zeil watched as Chief Basarum placed the plucked stem of the rose back onto the stem that was still in the ground as the two seemed to merge together leaving no visible traces that the rose was ever picked as Chief Basarum then looked to his student and spoke, “This will be your first lesson.”
Zeil as confused, “Lesson?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes… the mage when fully honed will carry with him a large amount of magic, and despite your good intentions, it will be dark magic that can be sensed by any skilled enchanters you may come across. Your lesson is to learn how to hide that magic to avoid detection.”
Lady Zera added, “The Mage of Zebrica is a position of… mixed opinion. Some if they know who you are will welcome and respect you, some may fear and reject you. Kingdoms can welcome you into their ranks, cast you away, condemned you as a threat, or even worse, use you to do their bidding. Because of this, it is unwise to ever reveal your identity as the Mage of Zebrica, and to better keep this secret, you must learn to hide the power within you.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “This is the point of this lesson. I want you to hone your skills in hiding your magic, then once you know how to do it, I want you to bring me a Blood Rose without a single drop of blood on the pedals.”

Zeil nodded as he felt he understood the task, “Okay, so bring you a Blood Rose… got it… now how do I hide my magic? Is there a special skill you’re going to teach me?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “No… this is a lesson you must learn on your own. Every day at noon I want you to meditate for no less than two hours. By meditating and feeling the world around you with greater detail, you can soon sense your own magic then focus on trying to hide it. As for the rest of your day, you can meditate some more or simply try to understand the answer to a particular question.”
Zeil was confused, “Question? What question?”
Chief Basarum replied, “You must tell me… What is the difference between light magic and dark magic? I will give you only one chance to answer this question weekly, but… you must find the answer for yourself and even if you bring me a Blood Rose before you answer that question, you will not progress until both these tasks are met.”
Zeil gave Chief Basarum a strange look as he replied, “The difference between light magic and dark magic? Isn’t it that light magic is used for good while da-“
“Wrong…”
Zeil was surprised at Chief Basarum’s interruption as the chief continued, “That isn’t the right answer… and since that was your answer for the week… you may try again in no less than seven days.”

Though Zeil felt there was more meaning to why his answer was wrong he still felt somewhat skeptic as he replied, “So… to pass this lesson I need to pick a Blood Rose and answer that question right?”
Lady Zera nodded, “Yes, and there is no cheating. Only you can answer the question and you cannot ask any zebra else… not that they would know mind you.”
Zeil asked, “How long did it take for the last mage to answer this question?”
Chief Basarum replied casually, “Eight months.”
Zeil was surprised, “E-eight months?”
Zera nodded. “Yes, give or take a week or so. Eight months sounds right.”
Zeil was confused, “Exactly how long will it take to become the mage?”
Chief Basarum thought to himself, “Well considering you’ve already completed many thing’s needed to know first… and given it took Mage Magi eight years before he left for the final trial… I would say… about four, maybe five years before you are ready for the final trial.”

Zeil was shocked as he replied, “F-five years?”
Lady Zera nodded as she replied, “Give or take… you see, Magi was skilled, but he was always impatient and at times a slow learner. Not to mention he didn’t even know the lowest lesson on magic when he began his training. Learning to conceal your magic is… I want to say step five in the lessons?”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “Let’s see, meditation was lesson one, then physical and spiritual balance, then herbs and potion brewing, next would be finding your center and meeting your spiritual guide. So yea, Lesson five would be magic concealment. Though the question I want you to answer was actually part of lesson one which is why I need an answer before progressing to lesson six.”
Zeil sat down in disbelief, “Five years… but… will Zecora still be waiting for me by then… that will almost mark almost eleven years since I left Equestria… will she even remember me?”
Zera smiled, “If you meant anything to her in the first place, then yes she will remember you. Zecora may be a mare in love, but she is also one who has mastered patients. Perhaps she will understand your reasoning should you return a little late. Besides, you cannot change your mind… not anymore.”
Zeil asked, “Really? Why?”

Chief Basarum replied, “The Assembly of Chiefs decided to train you to become the Mage of Zebrica… if you go against the assembly then you will be condemned. As is our law.”
Zeil gave him an unamused look, “So… it’s either stay and become the mage… or die.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Same options as yesterday… only now you make that choice.”
Zeil sighed, “Well it’s not like I was going to change my mind in the first place but I guess it’s nice to know I have no choice.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he smiled, “Good, as long as you know. Now, I'll leave you to begin your first meditation session and to begin trying to pick a Blood Rose… oh and by the way, if you’re wondering why I'm starting your daily meditation at noon instead of first thing in the morning, it’s because I assume you already have an agreement with Kante about her training to become a warrior correct? If that is so, I hope you will uphold your side of that agreement and continue her training… I only ask that… you make it enjoyable for her.”

As that was said, Zeil felt an unusual sadness from both Chief Basarum and Lady Zera as he nodded and replied, “Sure, I'll be sure she gets the best out of it.”
Both the chief and his wife smiled with content as he replied, “Good, then I'll leave you to your training. Just don’t get too frustrated, we aren’t expecting you to finish within the week after all.”
That said Chief Basarum turned and trotted away as Lady Zera spoke as she turned to follow, “Good luck to you Future Mage Zeil of the Black Sand… I look forward to your trainings completion.”
Zeil nodded and smiled as the oracle started trotting quickly to catch up to her husband who was only a few paces ahead of her. As the two left the site, Zeil looked at the closest Blood Rose as he mumbled, “So… I need to hide my magic if I want to pick one of these?” he reached towards the rose but this time before he could even make contact with the white plant, blood started trickling from between the rose’s petals as Zeil sighed, “Well… this may take a while.”

Back on the trail as the chief and his wife trotted back into the village Zera smiled, “So, you told him you know of Kante’s so called secret training then? I hope you didn’t make it seem as if you were angry at him for hiding it.”
Chief Basarum’s expression seemed a little depressed as he replied, “I could never be angry for him trying to make her life a little better. She deserves it after all.”
Seeing his expression Zera asked, “Did you tell him?... about what I saw in her future?”
Chief Basarum shook his head as he replied, “I couldn’t… as I said before, if I tell him the truth, he may be more lenient in his teaching. I’d rather she know all she needs to become the warrior she wants to be.”
Zera nodded and she spoke, “You think it is he that she protects in the first part of my prediction?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “The Young Warrior will stand between a spear and her friend thereby claiming her mark... Perhaps he is… either way it won't change the second part of the prediction. Have you discovered when it will take place?”
Zera shook her head, “It’s hard to say… I still don’t even know who she will face or who she will protect. The vision was too hazy to see clearly.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Then, we can only hope it is a long ways away… For both their sakes.”

Bk10/Ch1 Lessons to Become the Mage

Book 10 / Chapter 1
Lessons to Become the Mage
(Year 5, Month 9, Day 18)

The moon shined upon a lifeless village as all within the Northern Tribes slept through the night. In the Chief’s hut, Chief Basarum slept peacefully next to his wife as something unexpected happened. In an almost frantic action, Zera woke as she immediately sat up breathing heavily as a cold sweat started to build up on her terrified expression. Breathing deeply and too terrified to do anything else, Zera sat still as Chief Basarum woke and looked at his wife’s expression which looked as if she had experienced the most terrifying thing that she or any zebra had ever experienced. Concerned he spoke, “Zera? Zera what’s wrong?”
Lady Zera didn’t reply, instead she sat with wide eyes and a horrified expression of disbelief as Chief Basarum proceeded to put his hoof on his shoulder, “Zer-“
as soon as his hoof touched the terrified mare, Lady Zera quickly jumped in fear as she realized who he was and spoke with tears began rolling down her face, “I… I… I saw… I…”
Still too stunned to talk, Zera continued trying to peace together her words as Chief Basarum felt uneasy, “Zera… calm down. What did you see?”
She shook her head as tears rolled down her face before she replied, “L-Lucifer… I saw Lucifer.”

Chief Basarum stared in disbelief as he replied, “Lucifer? What do you mean?”
Zera looked forward as she replied with her premonition, “A Titan stands before an army of his creation as the blood of an innocent drips from his claws. At his hooves two victims lay an innocent youth, and the armies commanding zebra chief. With eyes of rage, the deity wishes to slay more, with himself as his only match.”
Chief Basarum became worried, “And… it’s really Lucifer?”
Zera nodded, “It is… I have no doubt, it’s our Titan.”
“What about the chief and army? Who is it? Is it me or one of the others? And himself as his only match? What does that mean?”
Zera shook her head as she placed her hooves against it, “I… I don’t know… the shadows are fuzzy but… I know it’s a chief at his hooves… and… blood in his hands… Wha- What should we do?”
Chief Basarum thought to himself before replying, “Do you know when this will happen?”
She shook her head as he nodded and replied, “Alright then… for now… We must keep this to ourselves.”
Zera was concerned, “But the vision is-“
“Too unclear to distinguish. If we announce this now it could cause a panic. The best we should do is keep it quiet until we know more. Zeil is progressing with his training it’s been three months since he began and already he has brought me a Blood Rose. In time he will see an imbalance and know of how to face it. It would be wise to understand more before acting.”

Zera sat shivering as she mumbled, “But… what about you… what if Lucifer…”
Chief Basarum put his hoof on her shoulder as she replied, “Calm yourself my love, if I should find myself in any danger, I will see that Zeil will help me find it off. After all, he is the mage… or will be someday.”
Though she didn’t know what to think, Zera knew that dreading the subject wouldn’t help anything as she nodded and replied, “I… Yes… I shall leave it to you then… just… take caution my husband… I may be the oracle, but you know as well as I that I can only see the future… and nothing can be done to change what I see.”

The next day, Zeil sat in deep meditation as he had been doing daily for three months. Though he had already gained his ability to pick the blood rose, he had not been able to answer Chief Basarum question. Every day, he continued to focus his mined in hope of receiving the answer he sought. In doing so, Zeil had received a broader understanding of his abilities as an enchanter, his wisdom towards magic, and his focus while meditating. This day however seemed different as Zeil’s mind slowly slipped into a vision as he found himself standing in a swarm of changeling all in their parasitic forms. As Zeil looked around he immediately recognized the location as he mumbled, “The changeling kingdom… why am I here I won-“
“Isn’t this exciting brother? The Queen called us all here to explain her plan for taking over the pony kingdom. I wonder what she has planned for those pathetic ponies.”
Surprised by the familiar voice Zeil looked to his side to see Supersonic standing next to him, but before Zeil could reply another familiar voice spoke as two changeling drones approached with the tougher one speaking first, “Whatever it is, it’s sure to put those ponies in their place. Not like that should be hard to do, right Zeil?”
As Zeil looked to his approaching brethren a strange shadow of himself stepped out of him like a specter as the shadow held the form of his former changeling self and spoke, “That’s true Pharynx, with all the singing and tolerating the ponies do all day, this should be like taking candy from little grubs.”

Stepping back and allowing the shadow of himself to speak, Zeil watched as he realized this was an event that took place right before the invasion on Canterlot. As he watched, the second drone with Pharynx spoke with a somewhat timid response, “You don’t think we are going to hurt them do you? I mean… remember what happened to the Marble Oasis.”
Supersonic chuckled, “What’s wrong Thorax? Ain’t got the stomach for this plan? You’ve always been a little soft for your own good.”
Zeil’s former self shook his head with a hopeless smile, “Come on Thorax, you think for once you can be something other than a wimp? The swarm needs love, and these ponies do nothing but love all day so it’s only natural that we should take that it from them.”
Pharynx added, “And should a few ponies get hurt, well it’s their own fault for not recognizing their betters. Maybe we wouldn’t take it if they would grow a little backbone.”

Zeil’s old self nodded, “Exactly, if a few get hurt, then it will only remind the rest that we mean business. Besides… we don’t nessisary need all of them, so some casualties can be accepted.”
As the four changeling talked on, Zeil could only mumbled to himself, “Wow… was I really that heartless… I remember making fun of Thorax a few times, but not caring about the ones we hurt when following the queen’s orders…with how long ago this was… seems like another life entirely.”
As Zeil watched himself and his brothers argue, they were soon silenced as a changeling queen flew overhead and landed at the front of the swarm before speaking “Settle down my changelings, now it’s time we begin our plan. We’ve waited long enough biding our time and now we can finally proceed with the first step of my plan.”

The Swarm reacted with cheers as Queen Chrysalis waited for a few moment before continuing, “Recently I’ve heard rumors that there is an important wedding planed for Canterlot soon, however it’s only rumors for the time being and if it is a wedding, we need to find out who the bride and groom will be. So, to gather more information, I will need one volunteer. Your task will be to infiltrate the Canterlot Royal Guard and gather information from as many sources as you can. Then if the bride is who I think it is… I will need you to provide a time when I can move in and take her place.”
As soon as that was said, a voice echoed through the cavern as Pharynx flew over the swarm and landed next to the queen, “I’ll do it! These little ponies won't know what hit them when I come strolling in.”
Knowing what was supposed to happen next, Zeil looked to his former self as his younger self jumped up and hovered over the swarm before replying, “With all due respect brother, something tells me that you’re not cut out for this kind of mission.”
Pharynx looked at Zeil and replied, “Really? And you think you can do better Zeil?”
The younger Zeil flew towards the front and landed between Pharynx and Queen Chrysalis as he replied, “Well, yea now that I think of it, I can.”
Pharynx gave Zeil an angry look, “Oh really? What you don’t think I'm strong enough to face a few wimpy ponies?”
The younger Zeil shook his head, “Not at all, I think you can easily face a large group of pony guards… after you alert them to who you are. This is an infiltration task, it needs more brain then brawn and let’s face it… that is where you lack. Not to mention it will leave the hive without its leading patrol changeling.”

Queen Chrysalis was intrigued, as Pharynx replied, “I can manage on my own Zeil… I don’t need you to tell me how t-“
“Actually Pharynx … I believe Zeil is right.”
Pharynx looked at their queen as he replied, “You’re majesty?”
Queen Chrysalis continued, “I have no doubt that when it comes to strength you are superior to Zeil… however, As Zeil stated. We need one who has a keen mind and can be discrete in all occasions, not just in combat. So… Zeil will be the one to infiltrate Canterlot.”
Pharynx gave Zeil and angry look as the chosen drone looked to his queen and bowed as he smiled, “Thank you your majesty, I can give my word that I will not fail you… for the good of the swarm.”
Queen Chrysalis smiled with a pleased expression as she replied, “Good, for if there is anything I can depend on, is my most skilled and worthy drone.”

As he watched the vision of the past, his surroundings faded away into darkness as Zeil sighed, “A worthy drone… its laughable to think that now after abandoning my swarm and going rouge. But that so called grater good… it was only good for the swarm, not for the poor ponies we were attacking. Seems that good and bad is more of a matter of opinion then it is a-“
Zeil paused in realization as he opened his eyes breaking out of his meditative trance as he spoke, “That it… that’s the answer I was looking for.”
Confident with his answer, Zeil stood from where he was sitting as he traipsed through the surrounding roses as he crossed the blood rose patch without touching a single rose.

Back in the village in the throne room of the chief’s temple, Chief Basarum sat in his throne with an uneasy expression as he sighed, “If only he were the way he used to be… then he could be somewhat reasonable.”
Rubbing his head in irritation Chief Basarum looked to the Stallion before him as he asked, “How did you respond? How does the Eastern Tribe intend on responding to these threats?”
Chief Chuma replied with pride in his actions, “I did nothing… it’s obvious that Chief Muji is only trying to provoke me into acting out against him, or to league against you. Besides, I'm too busy raising one foal to deal with a chief who himself acts as a foal.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes… but you know as well as I that doing nothing will not change anything.”
Chief Chuma nodded, “I warned him that I will not allow anymore of his warrior movements through our tribal lands. And I also informed him that the rest of the chiefs will know of those movements as well as their attempts to spread false rumors though my tribe.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “It’s not the first rumor he has tried to implant amongst the tribes, not long ago one of his advisors came to me and claimed he had proof of my coalition with you and Mimea. Stating that we four chiefs conspired to vote to train Zeil prior to the assembly.”

Chief Chuma was surprised, “Really? What proof did they have of this event?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “None, he was only trying to bluff a confession from me. Sadly he failed since everything he claimed was false to begin with.”
Chief Chuma nodded, “So Muji truly is trying to start a war.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “And I fear the closer Zeil gets to become the mage, the closer to war we get.”
At that moment a Northern warrior entered the temple as he spoke, “Forgive me chief, But Future mage Zeil is here to speak to you.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “See him in.”
Chief Basarum stood from his throne as he waited for Zeil to enter the temple, as Zeil entered, he saw Chief Chuma and smiled, “Chief Chuma, Its good to see you. How is your son, healthy I would guess?”
Chief Chuma smiled “Yes, barley a month in age and already as strong as can be. I expect him to be a fine smith, just like his father.”
Zeil nodded, “knowing his father personally, I’d expect no less.”

As the two smiled at each other, Chief Basarum spoke, “Zeil… it’s too early to finish your meditation, have you discovered something relating to your lesson?”
Zeil nodded, “I have… I’ve discovered the answer to the question. I know the difference between Light and dark magic now.”
Chief Chuma smiled, “Oh good, now I can see your progress first hand.”
Ignoring the guest Chief Basarum replied, “Very well… tell me then. What is the difference between Light and dark magic?”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “Nothing…”
Chief Chuma smiled at the answer as Chief Basarum replied, “Nothing?... explain.”
Zeil nodded, “Both light and dark magic are one and the same. They are both forms of magic that are used in tangent with what is required of them… however they are merely judged by opinion of others. Which in its own brings up the term good and bad. Unfortunately the term good and bad are also irrelevant. Good, bad, these two words are only opinions. What’s good for some may be bad for others even when explaining them in terms of laws. Consider this, say I wanted to use a sunlight spell to shine the sun down on a farm and make the food grow. Any who look at that spell would say its light magic and see my actions as good. However what if I used the same magic on the same farm, only this time I wasn’t making the food grow, I was drying the plants out so that they all die. One could see my spell as dark magic and call my actions bad. But then what if I dried the crops because of a deadly blight that was poisoning the food. Once again, my spell could be called light, and my actions good. In the end, both light and dark magic are all the same. The terms light and dark are only identified by those who view it, and the actions in which both magic is used.”

After that was said, Zeil silenced himself as Chief Basarum stood in silence for a few seconds. As the teacher and student said nothing, Chief Chuma smiled, “Well don’t Mage Zeil, to think you were able to answer that question in such a short amount of time. Seems I was right to vote in favor of your training.”
Chief Basarum nodded but didn’t smiled, “It would seem so… Your answer was correct. We have determined light and dark clearly by the actions a spell takes, but there is one addition that you didn’t answer… Though light and dark magic are one and the same… it doesn’t mean that balance is maintained by such thoughts. When it comes to light and dark magic they are the same, but the light and darkness of the world is indeed different. I suppose the term for them both would be good and evil. Acts of salvation and damnation, which is the light and dark you will focus your training on. But to preforms spells meant for damnation in the place of salvation. That is the purpose of the Mage, and so… I will say this lesson is passed, and it may be time to move onto the next.”
Zeil nodded, “Good, so… what’s the next lesson?”
Chief Chuma smiled, “He is enthusiastic, to say the least.”

Ignoring the comment, Chief Basarum replied, “Next would be to learn about your mage ability to see visions that required your attention. To see imbalance and actions of the past made to maintain balance. You’ve already achieved this knowledge… however it doesn’t mean we intend to skip that lesson.”
Both Zeil and Chief Chuma were confused as they both replied at the same time, “What?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “if I know my wife and her usual ability to know when I intend on leaving the village, she should be here soon with our bags so we can depart.”
Zeil and Chief Chuma continued giving Chief Basarum a confused look as Zera entered the temple carrying two saddlebags, “Husband, I'm not sure if you know yet or not but Zeil has completed his lesson and is ready to journey to the Sand Sea Kingdom.”
Chief Chuma looked at Zera with surprised, “The Sand Sea Ki…” he looked back to Chief Basarum, “Is that Wise?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “It is… though Zeil already knows of his ability to see actions needed by the mage, it is still a proper lesson that he should experience first hand.”
Chief Chuma shook his head, “I'm not talking about that… I'm talking about Samnambula. Though her village still stands since her return, she has been more or less, recluse since the kingdom fell.”

Zeil was confused as Chief Basarum replied, “It has been over eight centuries since the Sand Sea Kingdom became a shadow of its former self. However Samnambula has had time to morn her home and assist the archeologist of discovering its lost secrets. Besides, she is the pony of hope. If there is anypony in that kingdom to forgive the mage, it’s her.”
Zeil was now even more confused, “Forgive the mage?”
Chief Chuma nodded, “So you don’t know… the Sand Sea Kingdom was a kingdom established by ponies in the far north of Zebrica many centuries ago. But about eight hundred years ago a dark shadow fell over the capital city of that very kingdom turning everypony in the entire city to stone. After that the kingdom collapsed into a power vacuum that engulfed the entire nation, and so, it was forced to merge with Zebrica in fear of becoming a haven for barbarians. It still stands, but only in small villages that scatter across the seemingly endless deserts.”

Zeil was still slightly confused, “So… Why would this Samnambula need to forgive the Mage?”
Chief Basarum replied, “Because it was the Mage of Zebrica that destroyed the city… and turned everypony there into stone.”
Zeil was surprised, as Chief Chuma continued, “Samnambula was a hero from a number of millennia ago. It is said that she and a few others trapped an ancient evil in another realm for many centuries before being released recently back into our own time. She was… distraught about what happened to her home. Her village is safe, but it also is a former shadow of the metropolis it once was.”
Lady Zera added, “You will be the first mage she will ever have the chance to speak face to face with… but… it is required that you speak with her for it is only in your meeting will you bring her peace.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “When I started your training, I sent word to her letting her know that there was a new mage and warning her that we may need to journey to the Sand Sea Kingdom for one of your lessons. Her response seemed supportive enough, but I can only get vague details from a letter. Weather she welcomes you or not will be entirely up to her.”

Zeil felt slightly uneasy as Chief Chuma reassured him, “Again this is only theory. It is said that she is a kind hearted mare who is always full of hope, so perhaps she will greet you peacefully so long as you assure her you are kind in nature. Even she can't hold a grudge if it wasn’t you who performed the action yourself.”
Chief Basarum continued, “Nevertheless, when we arrive there you should be able to see into the past to what caused the kingdom to fall to ruin. When you do you can see why the mage of the past destroyed the kingdom and perhaps give Samnambula some closer. Though in all eight hundred years, it is said that none of the mages have actually told what they see of the site. Each one has taken the secret to their grave. It’s possible that if you see the same thing, you may want to also. But that decision I will leave up to you.”

Zeil stood in deep thought of the situation as Chief Basarum trotted towards his wife and took the saddle bag as he spoke, “Once again… it almost seems as if you want me to leave. You always seem to have my bag packed before even I know I'm leaving, or where I'm going.”
The mare smiled in a joking manner as she replied, “Of course, as the Lady Oracle it’s my position to lead the tribe in your absence. How else am I supposed to get peace and quiet, if you hang around the tribe all day?”
The Chief chuckled at his wife’s words before they became serious as she continued, “And… as for my vision this morning?”
Though none of the others in the room heard her words Chief Basarum replied, “Not here… just… be patient. It is three days there and back so if our journey stays safe it should be a little more than a week before our return.”
The mare replied, “At about this time in seven days is when you should return.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “There see… since we both return, there should be nothing to worry about.”
Zera hesitated, “Then why… do I feel so… unsettled.”
Chief Basarum hugged his wife as he spoke to her silently, “It was only recently since you had that vision… perhaps… you need this rest. Zeil is a capable mage, and I a strong warrior… we will be safe, I promise.”
Though it didn’t easer her entirely, Zera did feel a little more content as she nodded and replied, “Then keep this promise. And may good fortune smile upon you.”

Chief Basarum took his saddlebag from her as he nodded, “And upon you as well, my love.”
With that the chief kissed his wife before tossing Zeil’s saddlebag towards him and speaking, “Well? The journey is three days long. Let’s be on our way.”
Zeil trotted to his saddlebag as he picked it up and put it on, “Seems to be leaving in short notice but I guess we do have a lot of ground to cover.” He looked to Chief Chuma, “Sorry to cut the visit short, but I guess my training continues.”
Chief Chuma smiled, “Then be on your way Mage Zeil, I wish you luck in your training.” He looked at Chief Basarum, “As for Muji, I will assemble my warriors but we will refrain from any hostilities. That is until you return. And to be sure, we will keep your departure to ourselves. I feel that if Muji knew of your absence it may entice him on making even more foolish actions.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Thank you my friend. Zeil… let us be off.”
Zeil pulled his cloak from the saddlebag and put it on as he hurried to follow Chief Basarum out of the temple. As he passed Zera the oracle spoke, “If you’re worried of Kante’s training, I took the liberty of informing her of your journey, so she will be practicing under my eye till you return.”
Zeil smiled as he sensed her emotions, “Thanks Lady Zera I don’t know what it is on your mind that is creating the strong aura of worry, but if you can hide it this well, then I hope it’s something that is easy to solve.”
Before Zera could reply Chief Basarum called form outside the temple, “Let’s go Zeil! I’d like to cover some ground before evening.”
Smiling at her husband’s inpatients Zera shook her head in hopelessness as Zeil hurried out of the temple to follow Chief Basarum down the steps and out of the village.

After about an hour’s worth of traveling, Zeil and Chief Basarum found themselves trotting through the same ravine that Zeil had met Kante in. As they traveled Zeil remembered that day but then realized that there was a familiar presence in the area as he looked to the top of the ravine and spoke, “Uh… Chief?”
Chief Basarum looked to the top of the ravine as the two travelers saw the same pride of leopards standing on the top of the ravine as they watched the two from a safe distance. As the ferocious creatures watched, Chief Basarum spoke, “Looks like we are being watched.”
Zeil shook his head, “Hunted is more like it.”
Chief Basarum disagreed, “No… If they were hunting us, we wouldn’t have seen them. But I wonder… why are they here? They don’t look to be starving. Either way I'm sure they will keep their distance I’ve heard stories of wild predators being afraid of the mage since they could sense the darkness within him… maybe that is what it is. It would explain why they fled from you the day you arrived at the tribe.”

The pride of leopard continued watching from their position as Zeil replied in confusion, “It makes sense… but it doesn’t feel like they are afraid this time. If anything… they’re curious.”
Chief Basarum replied, “Curious? Of what?”
The leopard watched for a few more seconds before turning away and leaving as Zeil replied, “I'm not sure… but it’s as if they are wondering what I am… or… what I can do.”
As the pride left their view, Chief Basarum replied, “It’s possible they somehow know you’re a changeling. With so few of your kind in Zebrica, it’s no wonder they’d be curious. Then again, you know what they say, curiosity killed the cat.”
Zeil smirked as he replied, “Not when the cat is that big… but whatever they are wondering, looks like they decided to move on.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Fair enough, now let’s keep going. Though it is short notice, Samnambula will most likely be at the ruined City of Duat.”
“Duat?”
The chief replied, “Yes, the one city in history that was destroyed by the Mage of Zebrica.”

Bk10/Ch2 The City of Sand

Book 10 / Chapter 2
The City of Sand
(Year 5, Month 9, Day 21)

The Winds howled and the sand blasted against the two travelers as Zeil and Chief Basarum trotted through the desert through the heavy sand storm. As they pressed on, Zeil with his cloak’s hood up and a cloth mask covering his muzzle called through the storm, “Chief? How Far are we from the site?”
Chief Basarum turned back with the same amount of protection covering his face as he spoke, “It should be close, maybe over the next dune! We need to press on, less we get covered in this storm!”
after that was said, Chief Basarum continued trotting up the dun they were currently on as Zeil followed with what little visibility he had in the painful storm. As Chief Basarum totted over the dune and momentarily out of Zeil’s sight, Zeil kept up but as soon as he too reached the top of the dune he looked down to see that Chief Basarum was gone. Confused Zeil looked around as he called, “Chief? Chief!”
As Zeil looked around he saw nothing until a dark figure could be made out in the storm trotting closer to him. At first Zeil thought this was Chief Basarum but as Zeil watched the Mare approach, he could feel an aura of intense darkness as the cloaked figure trotted close enough to see clearly.

The figure was a slightly shorter zebra then Zeil in his zebra form. The mare wore a dark cloak and mask similar to Zeil, while what was seen of her face was only her eyes, one orange and the other white with a deep scar visible over the creature’s eyelid showing clearly that this eye was injured by some sort of animal. Seeing this made Zeil feel uneasy until he was called to by Chief Basarum as Zeil felt a hoof on his shoulder, “Zeil? What’s wrong?”
Confused Zeil looked to Basarum, who was now standing next to him, then looked back to see that the figure has vanished without a trace as he spoke, “N-nothing… I think the desert is playing tricks with me.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “The sand can play many tricks, but if we keep moving we should reach the city soon.”
With that Chief Basarum turned away and started leading the way as Zeil ignored the vision he just had and started following. As they trotted through the stinging sands, they soon saw another figure moving towards them as the approaching being spoke, “You there! Do you need any help?”
As they approached the pony who was wearing thick layers to protect himself from the sands, Chief Basarum spoke, “We are on our way to the southern dig site to the city of Duet. Is it just ahead?”
The pony nodded, “You’re in luck its nearby, follow me.”

With the winds continuing, Zeil and Basarum followed the heavily padded pony as they soon came to a large tent as the three entered through the main entrance. Though it couldn’t be seen through the thick sandstorm outside, the inside of the shelter was much larger then originally suspected as Zeil realized that the entrance to the large tent they entered was only one room with covered pathways leading to more tents which made up even more rooms to the large facility. As Zeil lowered his cloak and mask, Chief Basarum did the same as the pony guide began removing all his padded clothing as he spoke, “There, now that we are out of the storm, what brings you two to Duet? You two don’t look like the interns we are expecting.”
Chief Basarum spoke, “We aren’t, I am Basarum, Chief of the Northern tribe of Zebrica. I and my student here seek to speak with Somnambula, is she here?”
After removing all his padded clothing the now recognizable pony scientist put on a pair of glasses as he nodded, “Oh yes, she is in the lab currently looking over a slab we recovered from our most recent dig. I will show you the way.”

With that Zeil and Basarum were lead through the connected tents until they reached a tent in the far back of the complex as they saw a large group of archeologist and scientist gathered around a table looking at artifacts. In the center of this herd stood one that seemed out of place. Whiles most of the ponies in the room wore lab coats and explorer coats, this mare wore clothing that was much less constricted, in fact her silky cloth like clothing could only be described as ancient when compared to anything the archeologist around her were wearing. The mare had a peach colored coat, a green mane, and raven eyes, as she spoke and pointed to the stone slab on the table, “These glyphs here aren’t instructions at all. They are a pretense. They tell of a location for the tomb but the location is an obvious lie. Possibly to lure away grave robbers seeking to steal the pharaoh’s treasure. But perhaps there is a clue to the real tomb’s location. Let me read it further.” Silently the mare read the entirety of the ancient stone tablet until she finally sighed with disappointment, “Unfortunate… this slab isn’t a record of Pharaoh Calypso’s life, it’s of her father Pharaoh Uktah. That said, it only talks about him and his tomb’s location. There isn’t any mention of her other than she was his daughter. There is no helpful information here.”

At that moment the room of eager and curious scholars sighed with disappointment as they started to disperse from the mare’s side. Feeling this was the time to approach Chief Basarum and Zeil approached the mare as Basarum spoke, “Miss Somnambula? Do you remember me?”
The mare looked to Basarum as she smiled, “Yes I remember, Chief Basarum of the Northern tribe. It’s good to see you again, and...”
As she looked to Zeil, her expression changed drastically as Zeil could sense a strange conflict of emotions from her. In her, he could feel worry, curiosity, distrust, and uncertainty as Zeil decided to try and easer her emotions by speaking politely, “My name is Zeil, it’s nice to meet you Miss Somnambula I hope we haven’t come at a bad time.”
Somnambula shook her head as she replied, “um no its not. I apologies if I seem a little unsure. My name is Somnambula I was once a resident of this kingdom before it fell. And though I fear I may not show it, it is an honor to meet the future mage of Zebrica.”
Still trying to ease her mind Zeil replied, “The honor is mine.”

Feeling the awkwardness of the moment, Chief Basarum spoke, “Somnambula, Zeil here has completed his previous lessons and now needs to see the ruins for his next. Though it is part of the lesson, I'm willing to bet that what he sees when he looks upon the ruins may answer some unknown questions for you.”
The curious mare replied, “Really? How so?”
Basarum replied, “The mage is meant to see events either past or future where balance was shifting too fare to one side. If Zeil meditated in the ruins, I'm sure he will see what transpired her all those centuries ago.”
The mare was confused, “Is… that even possible?”
Zeil replied, “Apparently so, I’ve seen the past before and managed to stop the imbalance there so maybe I can see it again.”
Somnambula was curious as she thought to herself, “Perhaps, you can solve the mystery of Calypso’s tomb then.”
Both Zeil and Basarum were confused as Chief Basarum spoke, “Calypso?”

Somnambula nodded as she approached the slab and looked at the hieroglyphics painted on it, “Yes, Pharaoh Calypso was the last Pharaoh of this kingdom before it fell to Mage Phalla. It is said that after the mage turned the city’s residents into stone, she left the city to the elements where a traveler did the curtesy of burying the residents in a tomb along with the mage’s secret.”
Zeil was confused, “Secret? What secret?”
Somnambula shook her head, nopony knows, all that is stated in the ancient writings is that is one were to discover this secret, then all of this terrible fate will be understood.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Mage Phalla… So she was the one who turned the city to stone?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “yes, But this is the first I'm hearing about any secret, perhaps there is more that the last few mages kept quiet about.” He looked at Somnambula, “You say a passerby buried the city’s victims, who was it?”
Somnambula replied, “According to records, it was either survivors of the catastrophe or some residents who weren’t present when the city fell. Either way, if you can help us find her tomb, then we can piece together what truly happened here, and why.”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “Then where should we begin?”
Somnambula smiled before replying, “We can start in our recently discovered chamber, follow me.”
With that said, the mare trotted out a nearby opening in the tent and exited the entirety of the complex. As the three made their way back into the sand storm, Zeil put his hood up as he called through the winds, “is it me, or is the storm letting up a little?”
Somnambula Shielded her face as she replied, “Sand storms are dangerous, but they only last as long as the winds, the nearby ruins block most of the wind so it’s going to feel lighter the closer we get.”
Before Zeil could reply, a massive shadow could be seen through the sandstorm as the towering structures revealed themselves to be pylons from a massive temple gate. As the three were led closer to the gate, Zeil seemed to have another brief vision, this time of ancient soldiers lining each side of the road that entered the large gate. However like before, the vision only lasted for a few seconds before they disappeared leaving only the view of the massive ancient temple in their path.

Feeling like this was only an effect from the storm, Zeil ignored the visions as he continued following as Somnambula led both Zeil and Chief Basarum into the massive ruins. After entering the stone structure, Zeil put down his hood and looked through the large corridor as he spoke, “This, is amazing… How old are these ruins?”
Smiling, Somnambula placed her hoof against some of the glyphs carved into the wall as she replied, “I remember playing in this exact corridor when I was just a filly. Even then, they were thousands of years old, that was a little over a millennium ago.”
Zeil gave the mare a surprised look as she continued, “If I had known that I wouldn’t have seen this city populated again… then I would have watched it closer to burn it into my memory.”
Before Zeil could reply, Chief Basarum spoke, “Nostalgia can be many things, but more often than not, it can be the greatest pain in the world. We all hope so hard to see what was once, that we often refuse to look to what will be.”

Zeil Looked at Chief Basarum, “That was strangely wise for you?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “My wife said that once.”
Somnambula nodded, “I would expect no less from the lady oracle.” She turned to a path, “This way. The floor in this corridor collapsed to reveal a hidden room beneath it.”
As they trotted through the corridor, Zeil looked at all the ruins around him as he spoke, “I was wondering? You say that the mage turned the entire city to stone… did they say how? I know of a few petrification spells, but nothing powerful enough to effect and entire city.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “Well… I was wanting to save this for a future lesson, but now is as good a time as any. Mage Phalla didn’t use a spell, she used her element.”
Zeil was confused, “element?”
Chief Basarum explained, “Every mage has one spell that they can use simply at will. An element that can be created without the need of magic potions, incantations, or spell castings of any kind. They merely think it, and it comes into being.”
Zeil was surprised, “Really? Is that even possible?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “it is, for example, Mage Magi could harden the coat on his skin increasing its strength making into a powerful armor or a heavy weapon should he use his forearms to fight.”
Zeil thought to himself, “So… every mage has an ability? What would mine be?”
Chief Basarum replied, “Well, think carefully. You’ve said the mage who chose you used magic, so what spell did he use more than any? It would be something he could use quickly and fluidly as if it were second nature to him.”
Zeil thought carefully to himself, “well… I would say he used the water blade often, but he used that as easily as any skilled enchanter… Wait… there was one spell he used that was very strange. He could make vines grow out of his shadow.”

As the group continued through the corridor, they came to an area where Somnambula had to pick up a torch from a stand and continue using it to light their way. As they continued, Chief Basarum replied to Zeil’s statement, “out of his shadow?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, it was very strange, but with what only seemed like sheer thought, he was able to grow vines. Some he could wrap around objects loosely or he could make it grow dense and strong to use as a spear. He could grow them thicker like when he broke the chains that were on me, or make them thin like when he covered that earth pony we were fighting. He could even grow them from a far distance like when he sealed the chapel doors shut. It was unnerving in a way. Knowing he held such power and at the time I still didn’t know who he truly was.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself, “That is a strange ability to have. It’s unquestionably new. Occasionally some mages would get the same ability from previous mages but it often happens that the ability gained is unrecorded or hidden so that others don’t know his power or weakness should he have one.”

Zeil was intrigued, really? What kind of abilities did they get?”
Chief Basarum thought to himself, “Well it ranged everywhere from controlling wind, to rapid healing spells. But… the worst one was fear.”
“Fear?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes… the ninth mage had the ability to manipulate fear in those around him… it was to a point where he literally drove his enemies to suicide he even had a group of thieves go insane, driving them to kill each other… before themselves.”
Though she didn’t make it known that she was paying attention to their conversation, Somnambula listened closely to the two speaking as they continued through the corridor as Zeil replied, “Wow… I knew darkness can't always be used for bad, but I didn’t know that it could escalate to something as dangerous as that.”

As the leader finally arrived at a large hole in the corridor floor, she didn’t address it right away, instead, the interested mare silently eavesdrop on the two’s discussion as Chief Basarum replied, the Mage of Zebrica is and will always be a great power in this land. It’s up to you to decide how that power is used. Most do as they state and maintain balance in the world by using dark magic for good… but occasionally there are a select few who misuse their power… and as a result. Well… we are walking through an example as we speak.”
At first Somnambula wanted to continue listening to the two talk about that subject, but felt it would bring attention since they weren’t walking anymore so she spoke up, “We are here.”
As Zeil and Chief Basarum looked to the floor Chief Basarum spoke, “Oh? This is new, this room wasn’t her last time.”
Somnambula shook her head, “it’s been a while since you were here last chief. This chamber was recently discovered when the ceiling caved in earlier this week. Though it wasn’t what we were hoping to find, it’s still may hold the key to finding the final resting place of Duet.”
With that the three started climbing down a ladder into the deep but wide chamber as they used torches to look through the room. As they looked around, Zeil couldn’t help but recognize the room’s obvious use as he trotted to a large shelf that held countless scrolls, “It’s a Library…”
Somnambula nodded, “It was… most of these scrolls are so old that the ink has faded away, what could be salvages was simple fiction stories as well as documentation that predate Pharaoh Calypso. There isn’t anything here of her life, or the day she and the rest of the Kingdom was turned to stone. But there is something strange, look over here.”
That said, Somnambula held the torch towards a corner of the library as the light revealed a shelf that had been burned along with all the scrolls that were with it.

As Zeil looked to the scorched shelf and floor around it, he suddenly started to hear voices as the female voice spoke with pain, “Y-you don’t understand! This pain is too much! I-I beg of you, show me mercy! End this… end it all!”
Feeling drained by the unexpected voices, Zeil placed his hoof on his head as Chief Basarum looked to his and spoke, “What is it? Are you having a vision?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… but… it’s broken… and distorted.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “That’s because they are coming to you without focus. I’d suggest you begin your meditation now while the memories are present. If you see them while in meditation perhaps they will become much clearer.”
Zeil nodded, “Sure… I guess I can do that… but what about you two?”
Chief Basarum looked to Somnambula as he replied, “I will return to the tent, no need in me traversing these ruins, it is not I who should be seeking the secrets of this city… but the mage.”
Zeil looked to Somnambula as she nodded as she looked to Zeil, “If you do discover any information revealing where Pharaoh Calypso is buried, then please let me know.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Sure, I'll see if the visions tell me about It.” he sat down in the middle of the room, “Okay… let’s see what lies within.”

As Zeil sat and began meditation, Chief Basarum and Somnambula Climbed back up the ladder and into the corridor. After reaching the upper level, Somnambula looked back down at Zeil as Chief Basarum asked, “May I ask, what do you hope to find in the tomb of the city’s residents?”
Somnambula replied, “If Mage Phalla used a spell to turn the residents into stone, then I hope that if I find their tomb I can turn them back somehow, I’ve seen some amazing remedies that have helped petrification and other seemingly hopeless spells. So if there is a remedy, then I know we can find it, and bring back the glory that was once the kingdom of the sand sea.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “well who better to do that the mare of hope herself. If anypony can, it’s you. Just as if anyone can find that tomb, it’s Zeil.”
Somnambula didn’t reply, instead she looked to Zeil with a distrusting expression as Chief Basarum saw this and replied, “You… you don’t trust him do you?”

She shook her head, “how can I? You said so yourself, not all mages use their power for good. And he… he is too hard to read… to… unpredictable. I know more than any what can happen if darkness takes over anypony, good or bad. And if that is what the mage is… then he can't be trusted.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “That is true… Zeil is the first in many things… the first changeling mage, the first changeling I know who abandon his swarm, and much more… not to mention the fact that he is an outsider alone make him untrustworthy in my book.”
She asked, “Then… why trust him? Why are you going through so much to train him? Why bring him here? To me?”
Chief Basarum smiled as he turned away and replied, “I'm not sure… maybe… because… I have hope. Hope that he can help you… in more ways than one.”
Although she wanted to smile at the irony in his words, Somnambula couldn’t as she looked towards Zeil one last time before sighing, “As the mare of hope, I guess I should do the same.”

Down in the pit, the faint light of the torches barley lite the room as Zeil sat in his meditative position. Soon the silence faded as Zeil opened his eyes to find himself standing atop a high sand dune that overlooked the edge of a large and prosperous desert city. Curious Zeil looked into the city until he saw what looked to be two ancient soldiers trotting strait for him with spears in hoof. As they started to approach, one looked to him as he spoke, “You there, HALT!”
At first Zeil assumed the guards were talking to him, however at that moment, a cloaked zebra stepped onto the top of the dune right next to him as the cloaked mare paused, but said nothing. As Zeil looked at the mare, he immediately felt a dark aura emit from the unknown mare as Zeil took a step back leaving the guard to speak, “We got a report of a suspicious stranger approaching the city. State your business.”

With the hood of her cloak covering her face, the mare replied, “I came from beyond the Zebrican tribes, to see Pharaoh Uktah. So I request you show me to him at once.”
The two guards looked at one another before looking back as one of them spoke, “Show us your face…”
With little concern, the mare lowered her hood to reveal her face to the soldiers. As soon as he saw it Zeil immediately knew who this zebra was, like the vision before, the mare stood slightly shorter than his usual zebra form with a short mane and a thick scar crossing vertically down her right eye which was white from the same inflicted wound. Her other eye was orange but was barely noticeable as the scare seemed to overshadow almost all her facial features.

As soon as the guards saw her face the second guard reacted, “What? Its… it’s the Mage of Zebrica… You’re Mage Phalla.”
The mare gave him an unamused look as she replied, “I am… and I still request to see your pharaoh.”
The first guard tried to think of how to respond as he replied, “Well… um… are you here to see him about his aliment?”
The Mage shook her head, as she replied, “I am here to see him over a matter that is none of your concern. Though I was unaware he was suffering from any ailment.”
The second guard replied, “Well… he was… but… I'm afraid the Pharaoh passed early this morning.”
The mage nodded, “I see… then I'm assuming he passed the crown to his daughter Calypso then?”
The first guard nodded, “Yes… he has. Pharaoh Calypso took the throne shortly after.”
Phalla nodded, “Then show her to me… what I have to say concerns the Pharaoh of this kingdom.”
Knowing his place in this conversation he nodded, “Of course… right this way.”

As Zeil saw the scene take place he decided to follow to see what would happen next, however as he took his first step the setting around him quickly changed as he found himself standing in a very unique throne room. As Zeil looked to his changed setting he was amazed by the room’s design. Like all throne rooms, there was a long empty lane leading from the room’s entrance to the throne at the head of the room. Along the sides of the room were no walls, but large thick columns that held up a sandstone roof, and balconies outside those pillars which overlooked the city on both sides meaning that this room was a few stories higher than the rest of the ancient city. Along with the amazing room was a line of ancient guards standing aside each column with the young mare Pharaoh sitting on a large throne of pillows and marble at the far back of the room. The pharaoh didn’t seem different from what you would expect a pharaoh of ancient times to be. The unicorn mare was a pale tan with a black well-kept mane that was cut short to stop just above her shoulders. On her head was a golden crown decorated with gold beads that draped down to shine amongst the dark blackness of the mare’s mane. On her face were dark markings along the edges of her eyes which resembled what was usually seen on old hieroglyphic drawings of ponies of this time. While her face seemed troubled with a recent event which could easily be assumed was her father’s death. As the mare sat with her uneasy expression, the two guards and mage entered the chamber as one of the guards spoke, “Your Majesty, We have a visitor from afar come to show her condolences for your father. May I introduce, Mage Phalla of Zebrica?”

As soon as that was said, the pharaoh’s expression became curious as she stood from her throne and spoke, “The Mage of Zebrica?... in my palace… this is truly an honor, and to see you come to offer condolences for my father… even more so.”
The mage stepped forward and lowered her hood as she spoke, “With all due respect to both you and the late pharaoh… I have come to offer no such thing. I come here because of what you have learned.”
The mare was intrigued, “you speak of my father’s gift?”
The mage nodded with a serious tone, “I do…”
Pharaoh Calypso smiled as she nodded, “I see… then that only proves its value.” She turned away, “Come, let us speak elsewhere… beyond wondering ears.”
As that was said, Pharaoh Calypso and Mage Phalla left the throne room as they trotted out the opened sided area as the large opening led to a balcony that overlooked the ancient city. As the Pharaoh neared the railing she looked into the city as she spoke, “I have always heard stores that the Mage of Zebrica can see events unseen in person… so I must ask… what do you know of my father’s gift?”

Mage Phalla trotted to the railing as she replied, “I know enough that what you’ve learned can be dangerous enough to induce my attention. But to ensure my understanding… I will ask that you share the whole story. Tell me… what was your father’s last action.”
Pharaoh Calypso replied, “On the morn of this very day, my father who had been suffering from his ailment, called me to his bedside. He claimed that his time was near and that he needed to share with me, the knowledge of the pharaohs of the past. With a simple spell, he place his hoof against my head and transferred memories directly into my mind. It was unlike anything I could ever know. In an instant I was filled with memories of crucial decisions by pharaohs known and long lost to time. And not just my father, my grandfather, and his, and his… generations of knowledge was fed into my mind as if I were living their lives in a mere instant. Then… shortly after I attained all this knowledge… my father closed his eyes… and passed from this world.”
The mage wasn’t entirely convinced as she replied with a judgmental tone, “That’s not all he shared… was it?”
Calypso smiled, “No… it’s not. He also shared with me the very spell he used to feed me this knowledge… and with it… a way to enhance the spell further. A way to use that spell on a scale to encapsulate many more. Thanks to him… I know how to use this spell, and I can use it to merge the knowledge of not just myself, but all of Duet.”

Phalla nodded as she continued, “And you intend on using this spell?... to merge the minds of thousands?”
Calypso nodded, “of course I do… think about it. I can share the knowledge of my entire kingdom all in the blink of an eye. Young foals would gain all the knowledge to succeed in life with no need of schools or teachings. Our scholars would share knowledge with one another and further advance our civilization tenfold in a manner of days rather than decades. Our elderly would be able to pass on experience of the past to further ensure the future of our generation. My soldiers will share experience and battle tactics, making them the most skilled in the entire world leading to a safe and prosperous kingdom. Even those with no homes or possessions will gain the knowledge to pull themselves from the gutters and make use of skills that they learn from others. Picture it… True prosperity. I will be the pharaoh who gives it to them all.”
Mage Phalla replied with a distained tone, “You speak of entangling the minds of hundreds, no thousands… yet you know not the fragility of the mind. Do you think you and your subjects can handle a strain such as that?”

The pharaoh smiled with confidence, “My father shared knowledge of hundreds of kings before him, it should be no different when the knowledge of my kingdom is shared amongst one another.”
The Mage’s tone showed anger, “It’s not the same… your father did his best only to share knowledge if the pharaohs… he left out many of their memories. If he had shown more, your mind would have cr-“
Calypso turned to Phalla and interrupted, “Silence… Pharaoh speaks!”
Phalla stopped talking as the Pharaoh continued, “You come to my kingdom and I welcome you simply by the title you hold. Yet you insult my intelligence and question a decision that hasn’t even been announced to my subjects yet. If you have come to bare warning then it has been herd. However… I will not be swayed in my decision to better my kingdom by the likes of an outsider who isn’t even recognized by her own tribe. Is it not custom to banish a mage once their training is complete? What would an exile like you know about bettering a kingdom?”

The Mage hesitated for a second before replying, “I speak with no disrespect, but I do speak with a warning… if you proceed with this decision then you risk your entire kingdom. I will do nothing to stop you from continuing with this spell but if it goes out of control, then I will be forced to do whatever is nessisary to contain it. Even… at an unspeakable cost.”
Pharaoh Calypso became irritated as she turned completely to the mage and spoke, “If that is a threat, then I'll do you the mercy of ignoring it for now. However, since you do not share my opinion on the matter, then I will ask that you leave my home and my kingdom at once.” She looked to the throne room as she called, “GAURDS!!!”
At that moment four guards rushed onto the balcony as Calypso spoke, “See Mage Phalla out of the palace and provide her with the supplies she needs to traverse the desert. Sadly she will be taking her leave of this kingdom. Important Mage business elsewhere I assume.”

As the guards approached mage Phalla to escort her out the mage took one last look at Pharaoh Calypso as she sighed, “I cannot convince you… fine. But if you proceed your kingdom’s fate is assured. Heed this warning, for it will be your last.”
The pharaoh thought she figured it out as she smiled, “Oh… I see it now… The Mage of Zebrica holds in her mind, powerful spells that if misused they can be a danger to others… fine… I will heed your warning, but I will only focus this spell on the city of Duet… for now.” She turned away, “Now leave me.”
Knowing it was no use, Mage Phalla sighed in hopelessness as she replied before turning away, “Very well… Pharaoh Calypso…”
With that the mage started trotting away from the disgruntled queen, however she only took five steps before stopping in place as she sighed and spoke, “And so… my warning was ignored… and that’s what lead to my later actions.”
Confused Zeil watched as all around him started to slowly fade away, all except for the mage in front of him as the mare turned and looked directly at him before continuing, “Her ignorance led her and her kingdom to ruin. And… I'm afraid I had no choice in my actions.”

Zeil could only give her a strange look as he replied, “Wait… are you talking to me?”
The mage nodded as she replied, “I am… as you know… My name is Mage Phalla, third mage of Zebrica and the first to bring ruin to a kingdom. And you… are Mage Zeil, First changeling mage and one of few to awaken before being chosen.”
Zeil nodded, “I am, but… I thought this was all a vision.”
She nodded, “it is.”
Zeil replied, “But… you’re talking to me now. Is this a vision too?”
She shook her head, “What you saw was a memory I left on these grounds in hope of informing the future mage’s of the decisions we must make, which on occasion seem quite cruel.”
Zeil felt confused, “so… this, all of this was your memory?”
She smiled, “It was. But this was a long time ago. And since it fell so abruptly, I had to see it through to the end.”

Zeil felt a hint of depression in her emotions as he replied, “See it through? What do you mean?”
She shook her head as she turned away, “You will see in time… but no more for today. Tomorrow, come back and meditate in the throne room this time… there you will see the end. You will see how she reacts, what curse she brings onto herself and her subjects, and… what I had to do to put an end to it.”
That said Mage Phalla started trotting away from Zeil as he called to her, “Wait one second… I must ask. There is a mare back in the ruins that wished to know more about this city and what happened to it. More or less, she wants to learn what happened afterwards. There is recorded history that some survivors buried the statues of the residents in a tomb somewhere. Will this story tell us the location?”
Mage Phalla thought to herself before replying, “Survivors… I suppose that’s true.” She turned to him as she continued, “If that is what you hope to learn… then I will tell you once you know the truth… but be warned, what you find may be less then what you expect.”

Bk10/Ch3 The Fall of Duet

Book 10 / Chapter 3
The Fall of Duet
(Year 5, Month 9, Day 22)

Light came from the corridor as Somnambula, Zeil, and Chief Basarum emerged from the darkness and entered the throne room which was well lit with its open sided walls allowing plenty of light to shine through the pillars from the balconies that overlooked the ruins. As Zeil stepped into the throne room he looked at the room’s appearance and spoke, “This is the place, it looks almost exactly like it did in my vision.”
Somnambula asked, “So… what was it that you actually saw? And why did you want me to bring you here?”
Chief Basarum sighed, “He won't say… I tried asking him myself and he refused to answer.”
Zeil nodded, “Something tells me that I should keep it to myself for now. I will say I saw this room, Pharaoh Calypso and Mage Phalla but… I want to know more before I tell you exactly what happened.”
Somnambula gave him a confused look as Chief Basarum explained, “The mage is the keeper of many dark secrets involving magic. If this is one more, then it’s probably best it stay a secret.”
Somnambula started thinking to herself as Zeil could feel her unease as he spoke, “Don’t worry, they didn’t mention the tomb yet but when they do I will let you know.”

Somnambula nodded as she replied, “Okay, then… I will take my leave and allow you to do what you must.”
As she turned away Zeil couldn’t help but to stop her, “You… you still don’t trust me… do you?”
Somnambula paused as she replied, “I want to… I truly do… a few years back after I returned to this world, I was faced with a challenge of fighting against one who was a good friend in the past. At first I believed we could never be friends again because I assumed the darkness completely consumed him… but then thanks to a new friend, we were able to bring back the light in his heart and save him from the darkness that consumed him… but with you… you were born with this darkness, and I don’t know if it’s possible to bring light out of one who was born consumed. I can trust you enough for now… but… I don’t think I can give you my full trust… at least not yet.”
Zeil nodded, “I can understand that… considering who I was a number of years ago, if you knew the old me, I don’t think you could ever trust me. Now, I'm better but if becoming the mage means knowing I may never gain everypony’s trust. Then all I can do is consider this another lesson in becoming the mage.”
Somnambula gave a slight smile as she replied, “Very optimistic, I may change my mind yet.”

With that said, Somnambula left the throne room as Chief Basarum spoke before turning to leave, “Miss Somnambula wanted to find information on how to revive Duet to what it once was, I would say that what you find may help her do that. That is… unless there is good reason the city should stay as is?”
Zeil shook his head, “I don’t know enough about what happened here to say for sure, but I'll do what I can. Something tells me that what Mage Phalla did here was more justified then I know. Do you know how to revers petrification?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “When it comes to magic I know only the basics but she showed me a spell that should do the trick should we find the residents intact.”
Zeil as confused, “The basics? I thought you were Zecora’s Magic teacher?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “I was her self-defense teacher, mainly anti-magic and a few enchantments for defense purposes. Her advanced teacher passed a few years ago. But that is a lesson for another time, do what you can and find us when you finish. Somnambula and I will be looking through the ruins for more clues since there are no sandstorms today.”
Zeil nodded as he sat and readied his meditation, “Sound good let’s hope that this time I see the whole story.”
Nodding in agreement, Chief Basarum left the throne room as Zeil began his meditation.

With barely any time at all, Zeil opened his eyes to see Mage Phalla trotting through the streets of Duet. As she continued a guard stopped her as he spoke, “Not another step further.”
Mage Phalla started to speak, “I have come to speak with Pha-“
“The Pharaoh knows why you are here and she has instructed us to prevent entry into the city. You and your power are unwelcome here and I will advise you to leave at once.”
As the mage stood, she could see other guards in the city escorting the residents from their homes as all stallion, mares, and foals were shown to the palace’s entrance. As she saw this, Mage Phalla asked, “What is happening here… where are all the residents being taken?”
The guard replied, “The pharaoh ordered all her subjects to the grounds around the palace. And that if you had returned, that you would stay as far away as possible. Now move along, I will respect your title enough to not force you out of the city, but I won't let you go any further then here.”

The mage gave him a suspicious look before replying, “Fine… if you choose to deny me entry, then at least deliver this message. It has been one week since my last visit and I hope she heeded my warning. Because if she didn’t, and this spell proceeds as I expect it will… then I will have to act as Mage of Zebrica to resolve her fault. And I cannot show mercy for to any, despite their guilt or title.”
The Guard nodded as he replied, “I will word it better, but I will pass your message to her… now move along.”
The mage nodded as she turned to leave the area, however rather than leaving the city as suggested, she decided to take another road towards the palace in hopes of understanding what was happening. Using the commotion and the herds of citizens, Mage Phalla snuck through the palace entrance then and made her way through the palace corridor. After a few minutes of following, Zeil found himself entering a stairway that he didn’t recognize as the unfamiliar passage led to the palace’s library. As soon as Mage Phalla entered, she rushed to hide behind one of the scroll shelves as she watched the pharaoh and a few of her priest as they gathered around a table of opened scrolls with one of the priest speaking, “Your highness, I’ve found it… this should be the information you have searched for.”

Pharaoh Calypso approached the table as she looked to the scroll and smiled, “Excellent, this is exactly what I need. Quickly, inform the guards and make sure all subjects are gathered around the palace. I this spell should amplify my father’s, however I fear it will stretch no further than the city’s end, so it’s imperative that all subjects be as close to the palace as possible when it begins. If need be, open the corridors to them so that we can gather some within the palace as well. I know we cannot have all of them inside but the more the better.”
The priest nodded in confirmation as he turned and left the library too quickly to notice the mage who stood out of sight from the pharaoh. With one of her priest following his instructions, the pharaoh looked through the scroll on the table as she placed a second scroll next to it before speaking, “Now… we can begin. If it all goes as intended, then all my subjects will share their knowledge and become one mind, then we can begin travel to the outer cities to do the same and unify the kingdom as a whole.”
“So… despite my warning… you continue to proceed with this plan?”

Confused, Pharaoh Calypso looked to Mage Phalla as she approached, “Though I may be only the third of the mages, it is a fool’s tactic to ignore my warning all the same.”
The remaining priest glared at the mage as he spoke, “Such insolence… How dare you speak to the Pharaoh in such disrespe-“
“Silence, Pharaoh speaks!"
Stepping back in respect, the Priest silenced himself as Pharaoh Calypso gave Mage Phalla an annoyed look as she replied, “I am the pharaoh of the Sand Sea Kingdom, I am chosen by the titans to rule and I will not yield to the words of a Zebra… even if she claims to be the Mage of Zebrica.”
Mage Phalla gave her an angry look, “Your family was chosen centuries ago, but I was chosen directly by the Titan Lucifer to maintain balance. Your rule, nor lineage holds any appeal to me.”

Pharaoh Calypso replied with an antagonizing tone, “Then by all means… if you see yourself as superior then go ahead and stop me. Prevent me from using this spell and halt my plans to better my kingdom if you can… or do you even hold the power to try? So far, I'm beginning to doubt your claim as the Mage of Zebrica… perhaps you are an imposter, provoking the crown in hopes of influencing your own opinions upon me and my subjects.”
Mage Phalla didn’t even acknowledge the skepticism as she replied, “As Mage of Zebrica, I am consigned to see to the worlds balance and to maintain it should light or darkness grow over the other… however… I cannot intervene until that happens. I can voice my opinion, and request to prevent it from happening… but… I cannot use my magic until it is asked of me. So… I implore you… for the sake of your kingdom and your subjects… cease this spell before it’s too late. Before I am forced to intervene.”
Pharaoh Calypso gave the mage an unamused look before replying, “This is difficult… to see one of supposed power yield so lightly to one who has little. Yet you still speak with authority as if you truly are who you claim… But it is all for not. I will continue this spell, and when you see that my actions are just, then I will be expecting an apology from you… Mage Phalla of Zebrica. As well as a punishment befitting one who manipulates the crown.”

Knowing she lost, the mage sighed as she replied, “Then… I can only wait till you tip the scales on your own… I only hope you can forgive me for my response. Because you will soon find, that the weight, to balance the scales, may be too great for either of us to bare.”
As that was said one of the Pharaoh’s Priest returned to the room as he started to speak, “My pharaoh, the subjects are all gathered as re- oh… forgive my interruption.”
Pharaoh Calypso shook her head, “No need… just see to the Mage… I want her out of my palace and out of my city. She is no longer welcome in my presence.”
The priest nodded as he replied, “At once my pharaoh. Guards!”
As that was said, a few guards entered the library as they stepped towards the mage and started leading her out of the palace.”

As the three exited the library, the two guards led Mage Phalla through the corridor, into the temple’s main lobby, and passed all the city’s residents. However before they reached the outer portion of the city, a strange booming sound echoed from the royal’s keep. As soon as that happened, the mage took a potion out from under her cloak and quickly drank it as a transparent shockwave of lime green magic pushed out of the palace and over everything outside before crossing over the mage and guards and stopping a couple hundred feet from the city’s edge. After the shockwave stopped it vanished as the two guards standing next to the mage started cringing in pain before putting their hooves over their heads as one spoke in agony, “What?... what is this? Why am I seeing so many images… why… am I feeling so much pain… it… it hurts… why does it hurt?!”
With her recent action preventing herself from being effected by the spell, Mage Phalla looked to the palace as she spoke in disappointment, “No… that fool. She still ignored my plea.”
With their heads throbbing in pain the two guards held their heads as the other one noticed Mage Phalla wasn’t affected as he spoke, “You… the mage… you put a hex on us didn’t you? It was your dark magic that cursed us isn’t it?”

Mage Phalla didn’t give a response instead she only looked to the guards with an emotionless look as the same guard replied, “This pain… make it stop… if you won't… THEN I'll FORCE YOU!!!”
In desperation the guard charged at Mage Phalla with his spear at the ready as she only sighed in disappointment, “So you are first…”
With an almost carless action, the mage slid her hoof against the ground then upwards towards the charging guard as dust from the ground around them swept up from under her as it accumulated into a cloud which swept over the charging guard as it concealed the guard entirely making it impossible to see him. After the dust settled, Zeil was shocked to see that what was once a royal guard was now a stone statue. Out of panic the other guard spoke, “She’s cursed us all! She won't stop till we are all condemned!!!”
out of fear, the guard turned and tried to flee however as he did, the mage looked at him and swept her hoof a second time this time vertically as the dust on the ground quickly flew up in the air and pursued the fleeing guard before concealing him entirely and leaving behind a second stone statue after it dissipated.

As soon as she saw that the two guards were now stone, the mage turned her attention towards the palace as she saw the citizens outside the main temple gripping their heads and raving in agony as she sighed, “And now for the rest… may the Titans forgive me.”
Knowing what to do, Mage Phalla started trotting towards the back of the screaming herd, as Zeil looked down at the stone roads left behind. The path from where the dust was accumulated from seemed worn away as if most of the dust used to turned the guards to stone was pulled from the very bricks that made up the roads they were trotting on. Zeil could only mumble to himself, “The power of the mage’s element… so this is what she can do…”
As the Mage started to approach, some of the residents saw her and assumed the same thing that the first guard thought, that she was responsible. In a desperate attempt to stop the pain, a large number of the residents charged, as Mage Phalla braced her stance before sweeping her hoof across the ground then in a horizontal swing as a cloud of dust barreled across the area as it swept over the charging herd solidifying almost fifteen with a single swing. Seeing this some chose to flee in fear while the rest continued their charge with the Zebrican mage only taking a second swing to turn another dozen or so into stone. In groups of five to twenty, Mage Phalla kicked dust into the air as the residents tried to either flee or attack her. Some managed to get within arm’s length of the mage, however the skillful enchantress easily subdued the attackers as she preceded to throw dust in a strange fashion which turned all enclosed by the cloud into stone.

Zeil stood in shock at what he was seeing, that is until the mage managed to kick a cloud in his direction which caused him to flinch in a way where he closed his eyes and shielded his face. When he lowered his hoof, the setting around him had completely changed. Zeil found himself standing in the city’s library as he looked around to see something unexpected. In the center of the room, both priests lied dead as their wounds looked as if they took their own lives in an attempt to stop the pain, while Pharaoh Calypso sat against a bookshelf with tears of pain rolling down her face as she mumbled, “Why… why does this hurt so… the voices… the pain… its nothing like it should be… its… its torture…”
At that moment Mage Phalla entered the room as she spoke, “What were you expecting pharaoh? When you merge the mind of two with a limit… knowledge can be transferred easily… but when you merge more, without limit… it become too much to handle.”
The Pharaoh looked to the mage as she replied, “But… I did limit it… I only wanted to share knowledge… but this... there is too much to know what exactly was shared. My head… it feels like its splitting apart.”

Mage Phalla sighed as she trotted to a scroll on the table and glanced at the writing as she replied, “What knowledge did you expect? There is many kinds of knowledge in this world, as well as many types of personalities… What you merged, was everything about every pony… the wise and unwise, the creative and uncreative, the healthy and the sick… and… the sane… and insane. You merged too many qualities that make up a single pony and scattered it through thousands. Now… all those minds combined, are unable to sustain themselves. Your priests knew this… and that’s why they ended the pain themselves. As for the rest… I had to deal with them personally.”
The Pharaoh tried to bear her pain as she looked to the mage and spoke, “What? What do you mean? What did you do?”
Mage Phalla rolled the scroll up as she gave the pharaoh an angry look before replying, “I silenced them… every… last… one.”

Weak from her pain the pharaoh stood as she started backing away from the enchantress, “N-no you didn’t you co-“
As she backed up, a sharp pain caused her to stumble as she knocked over a torch stand as the lit torch fell to the ground and rolled against one of the scroll shelves as it lite shelf on fire. With the flames rising up the shelf, Mage Phalla approached the weak pharaoh as she replied, “I warned you that this would happen… I warned you of the dangers of this spell… and yet you did nothing to prevent it. Now…you tipped the scale, and it is my burden to balance it back.”
Without looking away from her target, Mage Phalla casually tossed the scroll she picked up from the table onto the burning scroll shelf as scroll immediately caught fire as the pharaoh spoke, “No… my father’s spell, it’s going to-“
“Be lost to time… from this moment forth… I deem that spell too dangerous to be remembered. So from this day forward, I will not allow its knowledge to be passed to anypony. Thanks to that spell, a city- nay a kingdom is now lost to the world… all because of you. So… what do you expect me to do next? Tell me what I should do to you for all of this.”

Pharaoh Calypso looked to the burning scroll, then to her dead priest in the center of the room as she took a second to breath before speaking in pain, “You’re going to kill me right… then be done with it… kill me.”
Though she expected it, the enchantress replied with a careless tone, “So you accept it then? You are actually requesting death?”
The pharaoh gave her a desperate look as she replied, “Y-you don’t understand! This pain is too much! I-I beg of you, show me mercy! End this… end it all!”
Mage Phalla with her expressionless tone replied as a cloud of dust accumulated around her and began spiraling above her head, “Very well… good bye Pharaoh Calypso, know I get no pleasure in this.”
That said, the mage raised her hoof and pointed at Pharaoh Calypso as the spiral of dust above her head flew across the room to encircle the ancient ruler leaving the dust to consume her and turn her to stone.

As soon as the final resident of the city was solidified, the images faded as the mage looked to Zeil as she spoke, “And there you have it… the rise and fall of Pharaoh Calypso, and the end of the entire kingdom of the sand sea.”
Zeil sat down in amazement as he replied, “So that’s how it happened, so you destroyed this kingdom for a good reason after all… and that also explains why there is no record of why you destroyed it. You made sure the secret of the spell ended there permanently.”
The ancient mage nodded as she replied, “Yes… and so… I ensured it was never passed on… but first let me ask you… what is the lesson that these visions are meant to teach to future mages? What’s message did I want you to learn from all this?”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “That… some secrets must remain secrets, and that in order to maintain balance, we may have to do things that we don’t want to do. Like destroy an entire kingdom.”
She nodded, “Yes that is what you needed to learn now… go home, and begin your next lesson.”

After that was said, Mage Phalla turned to leave as Zeil stopped her, “Wait… First I need to know… Did you know this was going to happen? That you would be forced to turn everypony to stone?”
She turned back and nodded, “Yes… that’s why I warned her to stop.”
Zeil replied, “But… if you knew this would happen, why didn’t you stop her yourself? Why let her continue this spell knowing what would happen?”
Mage Phalla sighed as she replied, “What is a fault without consequence? If every mage steps in and simply stops the imbalance before it happens, then none learn of the reason, and none prevent it from happening again. We as the mage must fix the imbalance as soon as it happens, we cannot intervene till then. Otherwise, the rest of the world will never learn to maintain balance themselves.”

Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “It just… doesn’t seem right.”
She shook her head, “It never does, and that’s why I’m here.”
As she turned to trot away Zeil stopped her again, “Wait… after this happened the residents were buried together right?... do you know where?”
Mage Phalla didn’t turn around, instead she turned her head slightly and replied, “Why do you wish to know?”
Zeil replied, “It’s for the mare I met, Somnambula. She hopes that there is a way to turn everypony back to normal… she has hope that she can save this city.”
The mage sighed as she mumbled under her breath, “Hope… if only…
The mage looked forward and replied with a serious tone, “Go to the final resting place for the last Pharaoh. Pharaoh Uktah, in the back of his tomb look upon the place where the slab of his life’s story used to sit… firmly press against the stone it fell from and push it to the side, behind it is a treasure tomb, which contains his greatest treasure. And the one who is responsible. But… don’t be hopeful of what you find… as I said before… the weight to balance the scale was too much for either of us to bare.”
Zeil was confused, “Wha-“
Before he could finish his question, the vision ended as Zeil found himself sitting alone in the palaces throne room. Though his question wasn’t answered, he still knew he had to hurry as he stood and rushed out of the throne room to tell Somnambula where to search next.

Later, Zeil Somnambula and Chief Basarum entered a large burial chamber as Somnambula pointed to the back wall behind the casket, “There, that’s where the slab fell from. The rough part of that wall right there.”
As Zeil approached the large sandstone wall, Zeil started looking for seems in the stone as she asked, “So… what did you see? Why did the mage direct you to here of all places?”
As soon as Zeil found the seams of what appeared to be one of the many large stone blocks that made up the wall Zeil replied, “Because she said that what you’re looking for is buried here. There should be a small chamber meant for the pharaoh’s treasure hidden in this tomb.”
Somnambula gave Zeil a confused look as she replied, “The pharaohs treasure was placed around his casket in this room, so it was already collected.”
As Zeil examined the wall closely as he replied, “An old ship captain I know said a wise phrase, he said that not all treasure is in silver and gold.”
She gave him a confused look, “Captain Sail?”
Zeil replied, “Does every pony in the world know Captain Sail?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “They should, he is famous after all.”

Zeil pressed against the large stone that once held the pharaoh’s legacy he replied just as the large block jumped back a few inches, “Okay well, back on track. Can you two give me a hoof?”
Curious the zebra and pony in the room approached the wall as they placed their hooves against the block as it took all three of them to push the block out of the way due to the age of the rollers the stone block sat on. As soon as the block was moved, the three picked up torches from the wall as Chief Basarum used a small fire spell to light all three revealing a long deep stairway leading further underground. As the three trotted deeper they had to move aside cobwebs as Somnambula looked around in awe, this stairway hasn’t seen the light of day in almost eight centuries… this is incredible.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Mage Phalla mentioned this tomb when I told her about what you was hoping to find. Who knows maybe this is the…”
Zeil paused as he stopped in his tracks, with worry Zeil looked deeper down the stairway as Chief Basarum spoke, “I know Zeil… I feel it too…”
Somnambula was concerned, “What? What is it?”
Zeil replied, “An ominous aura…”
Somnambula asked, “A creature ahead?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… nothing alive… the feeling is of death.”
Somnambula looked forward, “Is There a curse on the next room?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “No… but stay vigilant… I have a bad feeling about what we will find.”

Proceeding with caution, the trio continued down the stairs until the long stairway finally opened up into a poorly constructed chamber that was too large to see the back walls through the darkness. As soon as they entered, Somnambula spoke, “This place… it isn’t part of the pharaoh’s tomb, it’s different… this was built long after the tomb was finished. Most chambers will be well crafted in design, this one however… is crudely dug. The floor is weathered and uncut, and the pillars seems to be just plain stone all the way up without a single hieroglyph or symbol of worship.”
Though Chief Basarum and Somnambula couldn’t understand it, Zeil knew what it was as he replied, “This room wasn’t dug by the residents, it was dug by the mage’s power.”
Both Basarum and Somnambula gave him a confused look as the Chief replied, “Really? How do you know?”
Zeil replied, “I saw her ability, she was able to use the surrounding earth to turn others into stone even so far as to pull stone deposits from cut brick. If she can do that, then I think it’s possible for her to dig a massive cavern like this with very little effort.”
“Zeil, Chief, look over here!”
Both Zeil and Chief Basarum looked to Somnambula as she raised her torch as the light revealed a stone statue of an ancient guard who was holding his head in pain. As she angled her torch to the side, another statue was reviled this time it was a mare fleeing for her life.

Soon the three looked around as their eyes started seeing through the darkness revealing that the large cavern they stood in was filled with many more statues of the former citizens of Duet. As they looked around Somnambula smiled, “This is it… these are the residence that were turned to stone. We found them.”
Chief Basarum trotted through a small path he found between the statues as he replied, “This tomb is massive, there has to be thousands of them here… are you sure you can change them all back to normal?”
Somnambula thought to herself as she replied, “It should be possible though it will take time, a spell of this size may have to be done one at a time or at least very carefully.”
As Zeil trotted through another row of statues he replied, “One at a time… that could take days or even weeks. But if it works, who am I to ar-“
At that moment, Zeil saw one of the statues had a large chunk broken off of the face as the statue itself seemed almost completely hollow. With Somnambula and Chief Rafi continuing through the cavern, Zeil stepped closer to the statue as he angled the torch to shine light inside, but as soon as he saw what was there, he took a step back in shock as he spoke, “Chrysalis’s grace… this means…”
“Zeil! Come here quickly!”

As that was called, Zeil rushed to where both Somnambula and Chief Basarum were standing as he became shocked at what they found. In the center of the large chamber sat the statue of Pharaoh Calypso who sat with an accepting expression on her face. But sitting next to her in a meditative position wasn’t a statue, but a corpse of another mare as Zeil spoke in shock, “Mage… Mage Phalla… it’s her… it’s the third Mage of Zebrica.”
Somnambula was confused, “But… Why? How?”
Zeil looked into the peaceful expression on the ancient mages face as he replied, “I think… she wanted this… she did this to herself… out of guilt.”
Chief Basarum started thinking to himself while Somnambula replied, “Guilt? What could she possibly feel guilty for? She turned the city to stone but any enchanter should know that petrification spells are all reversible.”
Zeil shook his head, “They are… but this wasn’t petrification…”
“What?”
“Petrification is when you turn someone completely to stone inside and out. But she didn’t turn them to stone… she only encased them.”
Somnambula gave him a shocked look, “What do you mean?”
Zeil sighed, “I found a statue that was damaged… inside… was a corpse long dead and gone. She didn’t turn them to stone to save them later… she just killed them where they stood.”

Somnambula was at a loss of words as she looked to Mage Phalla, then the statue of Calypso next her, then back at Zeil as she tried to peace together a sentence, “But… she… that means…”
Zeil nodded, “It means that none survived. And… they can't be brought back. I'm sorry.”
Somnambula sat down in disappointment, “I… I thought it were possible to bring them back, but…”
As Somnambula sat in disappointment, Zeil tried to think of something to say as Chief Basarum replied, “Zeil… perhaps… you should meditate.”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
The chief nodded, “Mage Phalla told you the story of what happened here and even told you where this tomb was located. Perhaps if you ask, she may give you guidance about this.”
Zeil looked back to Mage Phalla’s corps as he nodded, “Okay… I'll try.”

Unsure, Zeil approached Mage Phalla’s body as he sat down in front of her in the same meditative position, before closing his eyes and beginning his own meditation. As soon as this was done, Zeil opened his eyes to see the fully fleshed and living Mage Phalla in front of him as she smiled, “So… you found what you sought… and… you were able to see what I did as penance.”
Zeil was concerned, “You buried yourself alive with the residents of the kingdom… did you really do it out of guilt?”
She nodded, “Yes… I wanted more than any for Pharaoh Calypso to heed my warning and cease this spell long before it would take shape. But… she did not, and because of this… I had no choice but to kill the entire city.”
Zeil asked, “Why not just petrify them? Why kill them all?”
She sighed, “The spell was irreversible, even if I turned them to stone so they could be changed back later. Their minds were decimated, and there was no fixing that. That’s why I removed that spell from history, and why I informed every mage since to keep it gone. Some magic is better lost to time.”

Zeil sat with a disappointed tone, “So… now what? What can I tell Somnambula to make this better for her?”
Mage Phalla sighed in disappointment, “Whatever you wish to easer her mind, but you cannot fix this… no more than I could. That is the burden of being the mage. To be known for our actions, to be praised, or cursed is no matter to us, but we must do what is needed of us even if the guilt becomes too strong to bare. That’s is why I am forever here. To teach that lesson to the next mage so that they too understand this burden.”
Zeil gave her a concerned look, “So… that’s why you trapped yourself here to die?”
She nodded, “We all have a higher purpose, and I chose to accept mine. To remain here in permanent meditation is my new purpose. And when your time comes you must accept your purpose as well. But I wonder, Will you be able to vanquish your own darkness when you face it?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I will, I already know my purpose enough to do what I must.”
She replied with a serious tone, “Do you?… well I'll take your word on that. Return to your training Zeil, and remember, the secret of this story can only be known by those who choose to keep it. Though I cannot choose who you tell should you decide it. I only hope you understand what must be done to maintain balance. Thank you for seeing my story… and good luck.”

All of a sudden Zeil opened his eyes to find himself sitting back in the tomb as he looked to the Mage before him and nodded, “Rest easy Mage Phalla, I will keep the balance you chose to maintain.”
Seeing his meditation had ended, Chief Basarum approached Zeil as he spoke, “So… did you see her? What did she say?”
Hopeful, Somnambula looked over at Zeil from where she was sitting as Zeil sighed before replying, “I saw her… and… she explained what I must do.”
Somnambula stood as she turned to him and spoke with hope, “And?”
Zeil looked at the surrounding statues, then to Mage Phalla’s corpse before sighing and replying, “A wise zebra chief once told me… When one dies they are dead… that’s it… you have one life, so hold it dear for once it end… it’s over. At first, I thought he was only trying to lure me away from forbidden spells, but when I saw what he meant… I watched its result lay waste to an entire village of griffin. Males, females, cubs… none survived. This city is no different, what Mage Phalla did, wasn’t an act to spite this kingdom, it was actually the greatest act of mercy she could provide.”

Somnambula shook her head in disbelief, “What are you saying? What could have happened here that would bring her to do something so horrible?”
Zeil shook his head, “As a mage… I cannot say. The ponies here discovered a great secret… one that they hoped would bring their kingdom to prosperity… but instead brought them to ruin. Mage Phalla… saw what ruin they would bring… and tried to stop it before it was too late, but Pharaoh Calypso refused to listen. All mage Phalla could do, was to stop what the pharaoh had started before it could spread beyond this city alone. She ended this kingdom because she knew it had to be done… and… nothing else could have changed that.”
Somnambula shook her head, “I… I don’t understand…”
Zeil nodded in disappointment, “I know… because you shouldn’t. To protect what was erased from history here… I cannot say what happened exactly. All I can say is… the mage did her job. She ensured balance in light and darkness… and… gave her life for her that soul goal.”

Zeil looked to the mage’s corpse, “She buried herself here alive to atone for what she saw as a sin. She erased a darkness from this world and practically saved it… but… none will know of her actions… nor will they ever understand why. This… this is the burden of the mage… Selflessness, without reward or even acknowledgment. She was and will forever be remembered as the mage to bring down an entire kingdom of innocent ponies… and even her self-sacrifice for her guilt will not be enough to clear her name of this sin.”
Somnambula still didn’t understand it entirely, but as he said those words, she could see a sadness in his expression that led her to a different question, “Zeil… if the situation back then happened a second time and you were in her horseshoes… would you have done the same? Or… would you have attempted something different? Something that… could save these ponies?”
Zeil sighed, “Given the warning she gave and the pharaoh’s ignorance to listen… I think this was the only course of action that could be made.”

Though she still didn’t know if she could trust Zeil entirely, the sadness she saw and his seriousness in his answer convinced her as she nodded and sighed, “Well… if it was truly the best course of action… then I'll leave it at that.” She looked to the pharaoh’s statue as she spoke, “I was adviser to the prince of this kingdom at one time, he made a foolish decision to stand up to the sphinx and got himself captured for it. Since Pharaoh Calypso is his descendent, it wouldn’t surprise me that she would do something even more foolish… especially if she was given warning from the mage as you say… so… all I can do is accept this. The kingdom was believed dead over eight centuries ago… so… nothing has changed. Only now, we have a tomb of which to pay our respects. And we shall do so… to both the city and the mage.”
Zeil gave Somnambula a surprised look as she looked to the mage’s corpse and bowed her head, “Mage Phalla, I mush apologies for misjudging you. When I heard of the mages actions on these grounds I even debated on whether the mage was a threat to the world or if he could be trusted… but…” She smiled as she looked back to Zeil, “If every mage holds the same honor and respect as you Zeil… then I believe the title is one deserving of respect.”
She turned completely towards him as she bowed her head again, “Thank you Sir Zeil… I may never understand what the mage truly is… but I now know that their purpose is far wiser than I ever could be.”

Zeil smiled as he shook his head, “I doubt that… you seem to be very wise on your own… perhaps I'm the one who needs to become more wise in this purpose.”
Chief Basarum approached as he sighed, “Yea, yea, we are all just dumb creatures. But I believe we are missing the point here.”
Somnambula laughed at his words as she nodded, “Your right, we must decide what to do with this discovery.” She looked at Mage Phalla again as she nodded, “We shall take the time to analyze this room for a few days. I don’t know if we should find any hieroglyphics anywhere in here, but if we don’t, then we shall seal this tomb and mark it as a grave. I think, in respect of the fallen, it’s the least we can do.”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “Very good, then I think it’s time we take our leave. Zeil, is there anything further you need from this place before we go?”
Zeil looked to the Petrified Pharaoh, then to the mage who sat beside her as he shook his head, “No… I’ve learned all I could from theses grounds. So… I think it’s time we continued my training back at the village.”

Chief Basarum nodded as he turned to the exit and spoke, “Good, then let us be off. Somnambula it was good seeing you again, and I'm happy we could be of assistance in your search.”
Somnambula smiled as she replied, “Thank you, not just for your hospitality but for your assistance in this mystery. Even if I don’t know the whole story, it’s still comforting that there is a reason why this city met its end. And I hope whatever lesson Mage Phalla taught you Sir Zeil, will help you in your lessons.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Thanks, I'm sure it will.”
As Zeil followed Chief Basarum towards the tombs exit, Somnambula looked back to the stature of Pharaoh Calypso as she mumbled, “The Mage of Zebrica must be a costly burden indeed… I wonder if Princess Twilight knows of such a roll in this world. Wouldn’t hurt to ask next I see her.”
Outside the tomb, Chief Basarum and Zeil continued to leave the ruins as Basarum spoke, “I want to ask, You said you wanted to ensure the secret of these ruins were kept, but… I saw no reason to distrust Somnambula.”
Zeil sighed, “There didn’t have to be, this lesson and story is for the mage and the mage alone. Even if Mage Phalla is viewed as a monster for the rest of time. The Burden if the mage in keeping balance is what matters more then anything.”

Bk11/Ch1 The Spark of War

Book 11/Chapter 1
The Spark of War
(Year 5, Month 10, Day 5)

Sparks flew through the air as Zeil deflected Kante’s spear leaving the young filly to spin around and use her momentum to thrust again at her teacher. With the metal shield being his only weapon, Zeil tried a second time to block the attack as the changeling blocked the attack parried the spear upwards before lowering his stance and spinning around in an attempt to hit her hooved out from under her with the shield’s edge. Seeing the attack coming, Kante jumped high enough to land on the shield as she used his spin to help as she vaulted high into the air with her spear at the ready. Although she already had the advantage of bringing the spear down on Zeil from above, Kante took the extra effort to thrust the spear before beginning her fall making her attack even faster then what most would suspect. As the blade came close, Zeil had barely any time as he shifted his body to evade the spears blade and flung the shield upward as fast as he could as the round metal shield slammed against Kante’s side with enough force to stun, disarm, and toss the young filly a number of feet before hitting the ground and rolling into a sliding stop.

Realizing he may have hit her too hard, Zeil rushed to her side as he called, “Kante! You alright?”
Rubbing her head in irritation, Kante replied, “Owe… what was that?”
Seeing she was alright Zeil smiled, “That was a bit of a reflex… luckily it means you have improved quite a bit. Next match if I'm not careful, could be my last.”
He held out his hoof to help her up as she sighed, “Very unlikely… if that was a reflex, then you were how you say, going easy on me. I’d hate to see what would happen if you used your full skill. I may never be as good as you.”
As she took his hoof, Zeil picked her up as he replied, “All great warriors require time and patients, but you are still much more skilled then I was at your age. At this rate you will be the best warrior the Northern Tribes will ever see, don’t you think chief?”
Zeil looked off to the side as Chief Basarum stood watching as he replied, “She is very skilled, I have no doubt that if she isn’t already, then she will be one of the tribe’s best.”

Hearing praise from the chief made her feel proud as Kante looked to Zeil and replied, “And I owe it all to Brother Zeil. If not for his teachings I would never be this good.”
Zeil smiled, “You owe it to yourself, I only helped to show you the way. That’s what siblings do right?”
Chief Basarum could only smile at their comradery but before anything else could be said, a Northern Tribe warrior rushed up as he called, “Chief!!! Come we have a problem!!!”
With the warrior catching all their attention, the three looked to the approaching soldier as the chief spoke, “What is it brother? What’s wrong?”
Tired from his recent sprint, the warrior took a breath before replying, “It’s the river… there is something you must see… this way quickly!”
Hearing the concern, Zeil placed the shield on the ground as he spoke, “I'll go with you.”
Kante with her spear in hoof nodded, “As will I.”
Normally Chief Basarum would object to either of them following for tribal matters, but since Zeil has become a trusted member of the tribe, and Kante a skillful warrior for her age, Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “Then let’s make haste.”

With that, the mage in training, the young warrior and their chief followed the guard towards the outskirts of the tribal lands as Chief Basarum spoke while they ran, “Brother, what has happened? What is the problem with the river?”
The warrior replied, “This morning I was making my rounds and decided to go into the village outskirts. But when I got to the river there was a commotion surrounding it. When I investigated… I saw that it had dried up.”
The three followers were surprised as Kante replied, “Dried up… impossible. It’s been two days since the last rains. There should be plenty of water upstream to keep it going.”
The Warrior replied, “That’s what I assumed… and yet it’s dry.”
After that the four continued in silence as they rushed to the river at the edge of the tribe’s lands. As the four arrived, Chief Basarum was immediately approached by concerned farmers and spectators that held him up as Zeil and Kante continued to the riverbed. As Chief Basarum tried to calm the herd, Zeil and Kante were shocked when they saw the dry and cracking riverbed as Zeil spoke, “It is dry… how it this possible?”
Kante shook her head, “I don’t know… the river has had its low years before but never a time where it dried up completely.”

Finally able to get by the herd Chief Basarum approached the riverbed as he looked into the river and spoke, “Dry… this is a poor omen.”
The warrior who showed them to the site spoke, “This is how I found it this morning… not a drop in sight.”
Zeil looked at the surrounding herd, then gave the warrior a suspicious look before mumbling quietly, “Odd…”
Seeing that Zeil was looking at him the warrior asked, “Is there a problem mage Zeil?”
Zeil shook his head, “Not really, but I'm curious… You say you were making your usual rounds, what made you come out here?”
Kante added, “That’s right, warrior patrols go by usual key points, but I'm not aware of any out in the farmlands.”
The warrior replied, “Well… call it a hunch… plus I live in this area so it was on the way into the village.”
Chief Basarum spoke, “Regardless of that… we should focus on the situation. Zeil take a closer look.”
Zeil stepped into the dry river and trotted along the cracked ground as he swept some of the dried and cracked dirt aside and placed his hoof firmly on the ground. After doing this, Zeil began focusing as hard as he could until a very small vine started growing out of the shadow that his hoof casted on the ground. Though the vine only grew to about three inches in length, it was enough as Zeil gasped from his intense focused before replying, mumbling to himself quietly, “Interesting… yet suspicious.”

Not hearing him clearly Chief Basarum called, “Well? What do you see?”
Zeil looked back, “The ground is cracked but under that its slightly damp. If it was completely dried up, there wouldn’t be groundwater.” He looked up stream, “Something is blocking it. I suggest we investigate.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Very well.” He looked to the warrior, “You go with Zeil and see to the riv-”
“With all due respect Chief, That won't be nessisary. Kante and I will go. It’s best that you two stay here and ensure the tribe that we are looking into it.”
Basarum was curious, “Are you sure?”
Zeil smiled, “Kante is basically finished with her training and I am the future Mage of Zebrica… I think together we make up at least four good warriors. We should be fine.”
Normally Chief Basarum would disagree, but with more spectators arriving on site, he decided to just accept it, “Go… and be safe. But if you run into trouble return at once.”
Zeil smiled, “Understood chief, Kante lets go.”
Kante smiled, “Yes brother on your lead.”
As the two rushed up the dry river, Kante smiled, “Thanks for speaking in my defense Brother Zeil. It’s good to know my skill is as good as two warriors.”
Zeil chuckled as he joked, “You as two? I was saying I was good as three.”
The two laughed as Kante replied sarcastically, “Oh ha ha ha, very funny.”

Not long after the two set out up the river Zeil and Kante came to an area where they could see a wooden dam ahead as Kante spoke, “Brother Look!”
Rushing to the large wooden obstacle, the two climbed out of the dry river and into the riverbed as Kante spoke, “This was built recently… and not very well I should say.”
Zeil looked around for any other zebra in the area as he spoke, “Okay new lesson, A warrior should be able to investigate an area and determine recent activity by clues on the site so… look around. Anything here can tell us what happened if you look closely enough.”
Kante nodded as she trotted along the river bank and examined the area as she spoke, “There are tracks here… but they are light… at least on this particular spot. I think this was a group effort and the leader stood here.” She looked around some more, “Here… more tracks… but they are deeper… either heavier zebra trotted along this area.”
Zeil added, “Or light zebra carrying heavy objects… perhaps the logs that make up the dam.”

Kante followed the tracks as she pointed, “There… wagon tracks… and they go to the south… whoever did this came from the south. Should we follow them?”
Zeil nodded, “That can wait… we need to find out more here first… what else do you see?”
Kante trotted down into the dry part of the river in front of the dam as she spoke, “The mud in front of the dam is deep… looks like water is still seeping through. Whoever did this doesn’t know much about engineering. Or they didn’t have high quality tools.”
Zeil smiled, “Very good… I didn’t even catch that… but by determining, what do you think happened here?”
Kante climbed back to the top of the riverbed as she replied, “Well it’s obvious that the river was dammed by another tribe. My guess, is the Southern Tribes, aside from the fact that they are the only ones who would do this, the tools used to make the dam were too poor to do it properly, so it wasn’t the Eastern Tribe. And blocking our water would be a strategy that only the south would attempt.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… and the Western Tribes are more pacifist so they wouldn’t do this regardless.”
Kante looked to Zeil, “Should we go after them?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… we need to report this back to the chief. A good warrior doesn’t attack without orders.”
Kante nodded, “Right. So what do we do?”

Zeil turned to the dam as he replied, “First let me deal with this… it should be good practice.”
As that was said, a cloud overhead seemed to cover the sunlight above as Zeil smiled, “Talk about convenience.”
Zeil then trotted to the riverbank closest to the dam as he placed his hoof on the ground and focused. Though it couldn’t be seen from the surface, small vines started to grow under the waterline along the side of the dam as Zeil tried to focus on digging the vines under the dam to brake the ground beneath it. After a few seconds the poorly constructed dam collapsed under the water pressure behind it as the water flowed down river and Zeil dropped to a knee in exhaustion. Concerned Kante spoke, “Brother Zeil… are you harmed?”
Zeil nodded, “No I'm fine… I'm just trying to get used to how badly my ability drains my energy. But luckily I did find that using it in or near water is much easier. None the less we should report back to the chief. I have a bad feeling about all this.”
As the two started to leave, Zeil paused as he looked down to the ground where the leader of the Southern Tribe supposedly stood. Looking at the hoof prints for a few seconds, Zeil could tell that instead of traveling south with the wagon, these tracks moved towards the Northern Tribe village as Kante noticed Zeil’s hesitation, “Brother?”
Zeil shook his head, “It’s nothing… let’s get back.”

After that was said, the two traveled back down river until they met Chief Rafi in the same place that they left him as the chief spoke, “I see you fixed the problem with the river.”
Kante started to speak, “Yes Zeil and I found a d-“
Seeing the spectating herd Zeil interrupted “A downed tree blocked the river… probably fell over last night… but… we need to talk, lets head back to the village.”
That said, Chief Basarum, Kante, and Zeil started traveling up the road as Chief Rafi spoke, “I can tell you were trying to avoid too much attention from the tribe. So tell me… what did you really run into out there? An ambush?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… but we did find a dam that was built blocking the river.”
Kante added, “Yea… we think it was the Southern Tribe’s doing.”
Chief Basarum replied, “I see… do you have any proof?”
Zeil shook his head, “Nothing viable, but I think you and I both know it’s the truth regardless?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I do… unfortunately we need better evidence to really do anything about it.”
Kante was surprised, “So… we are just going to let them get away with it?”
Thought he didn’t like it, Chief Basarum nodded, “We have no choice. If we assemble the tribes it will only lead to petty excuses and wasted time. Since it only resulted in late watering times for the crops we will just overlook it for now. But I have a feeling this is only one of what’s to come.

(Year 6, Month 01, Day 2)

Months later, Zeil and Chief Rafi were on the outskirts of the tribal lands as Zeil sat focusing his magic. As Zeil Focused on his training, Kante trotted into the area as she approached Chief Basarum and spoke, “Chief, what is brother Zeil doing?”
Chief Basarum replied, “He is trying to focus, I buried a seed in the soil before him. I want to see if he can locate it, and if so, if he can make it grow.”
Kante looked at Zeil with surprise, “He can do that?”
Zeil sighed in defeat as he replied, “Apparently not… I can’t see or sense the seed anywhere. Even then I don’t think I'm capable of making it grow. But…”
Zeil closed his eyes again and focused again. This time however, the seed slowly pushed itself out of the ground until it was apparent that it wasn’t the seed that was moving, but a vine beneath it that pushed the seed out of the soil until the sunlight touched it causing the vine to stop moving. After seeing this Zeil stopped focusing as he spoke, “I guess I can only manipulate the vines. And only when they’re in shadows. But it’s strange that I feel where they are when they grow. Or at least I can feel the texture of the soil around them as if… it were an extension of myself.”

Kante thought to herself before speaking, “I have a question… if you can't grow regular seeds, then how can you grow the vines?”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “That’s the weird part. I gave a piece of the vine to the Chieftess Mimea of the Western Tribes so that she and her herbalist could examine it, and she told me that not only was the vine ancient in origin. But it was dead while growing.”
Kante was surprised, “Dead?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes, I know of a plant that is capable of growing long after it dies, but there isn’t any remnant of it in any soil around here. In fact the only place I knew of it ever growing was in Equestria a few years ago. Seems the plant caused quite a stir when it grew from the Everfree forest and tried to overtake the nearby towns.”
Zeil trotted to the vine and plucked it from the ground as he replied, doesn’t explain how it’s here… nor does it explain how it grows after death.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Perhaps your ability is to conjure these vines from magic. It would explain the mystery behind them.”
“Chief!!!”

Confused, the three turned towards the village as a farmer zebra approached, “Trouble… there is a commotion outside the village that needs your attention!”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Understood… Zeil, Kante, with me.”
Zeil nodded, “Understood chief.”
As they rushed to the area just outside the village, they soon arrived at one of the tribe farms as there was a commotion huddled around the entrance to one of the storage huts. As they arrived Chief Basarum spoke, “What is happening here?”
One of the farmers turned to the chief as he spoke, “Chief, we just discovered that a few straw bales have gone missing.”
Chief Basarum was confused, “Missing? How?”
A warrior in the area approached as he replied, “It’s alright chief, I looked at the hut myself and it seems like there was no signs of break in. perhaps there was just a miscount in the supply.”
The farmer argued, “I have farmed for this tribe for many years, and not once have I ever miscount the crops. This is my placement and I refuse to be accused of anything so demeaning!”
Kante spoke up, “Calm down, he didn’t mean any offence. Maybe there is another explanation… maybe some zebra misplaced the bale.”

Hearing this the farmer turned to Kante with an angry look, however before he could reply with another angry response, Zeil intervened, “Calm yourself before you say something you will regret… I can feel your anger from here, but that isn’t reason enough to create conflict with a warrior… no matter how young!”
Realizing his actions, the farmer looked to Zeil in surprise and silenced himself as Chief Basarum spoke, “Enough of this… I will not allow infighting in my tribe. Tell me… how many bales are missing?”
The farmer looked to the chief and replied, “I only counted two missing.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Then we should be fine.”
The Farmer replied, “But chief, that food was from our winter stalk.”
Zeil replied, “Then it’s my share.”
Kante stepped forward too, “Also mine. That way there will still be plenty of food and we can stop worrying about this.”

The farmer gave the young warrior a confused look as Chief Basarum smiled, “That won't be nessisary, we always plan for a poor harvest, so this little amount won't be a problem.”
The farmer was still concerned, “But even then, what if this means there is a thief in the tribe?”
Zeil looked to the warrior as he asked, “You… You’re the same warrior who found us when the river was dammed right? What’s your name?”
The warrior replied, “My name is Maximus.”
Zeil continued, “And you say there were no signs of break in?”
The warrior shook his head, “No none at all.”
Zeil gave the warrior a suspicious look as he replied, “Well despite the dust on your shoulder… you seem like you can be trusted enough.”
Realizing there really was dust on his shoulder, Maximus brushed it away as Chief Basarum nodded, “Then perhaps this really was a misunderstanding. Whether it is or not, it is settled now. Let’s put it behind us and move on.”
The farmer nodded as he sighed, “Of course chief… as you say.”

With that settled, Zeil, Chief Basarum, and Kante started trotting back towards the village as Kante spoke, “Thanks brother Zeil, for standing up for me when the farmer lost his temper.”
Zeil nodded, “And you little sister for offering your food to settle the dispute. Selflessness is a redeeming quality for any warrior to respect.”
Chief Basarum looked at Zeil with concern, “You were lying back there weren’t you? What are you planning Zeil?”
Zeil thought to himself, “I have a feeling I wanted to test… if all goes well, then I'm wrong and this truly is settled and things will be fine. But if what I'm assuming is right, then we have a problem that will need our attention soon.”
Chief Basarum asked, “A problem… can you handle it?”
Zeil nodded, “I can…”
The Chief nodded, “Then I'll trust your judgement and leave it in your hooves, just keep the tribe in mind should you act recklessly.”
Zeil nodded, “I always do.”

That night, Zeil was sitting in his hut deep in meditation until Kante charged into the room, “Brother Zeil!!! There are fires at the farmlands!
Zeil stood up, “WHAT!!!”
Kante and Zeil rushed out of the Hut as Kante replied, “The chief is there attempting to contain the fire, but its moving onto the crops.”
Zeil ran beside her as he replied, “Okay… then let’s do what we can to save the crops.”
As soon as the two arrived, the warriors and farmers were working together to move water to the blaze as Chief Basarum was trying to direct them. As Zeil approached Basarum smiled, “Good you’re here. Kante, go evacuate the farmers huts. Make sure all zebra are out of there and at a safe distance.”
She nodded, “Yes chief.”

Chief Basarum looked to Zeil as he spoke, “The fire started on the northern field and is spreading fast… any ideas?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, from the looks of it, the north field is lost. But if we lay water along the line separating it from the southern field we may be able to save it.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Then let it be so…”
For the next hour and a half, Zeil Chief Basarum and the rest if the tribe did all they could to contain the blaze as Zeil used the darkness of night to create a thick wall of vines to contain the fire in one area. Shortly after, the fire was finally suppressed and put out, Chief Basarum had the warriors keep the area clear as he and Zeil entered the field to investigate the cause. As they traversed the ashy field, Zeil found a square shaped pile of ash as he spoke, “The soil is driest here which means these scorch marks are where the fire originated.”
As they sifted through the ash, Chief Basarum picked up a small staff as he spoke, “Here… this looks like it used to be a torch… but something like this wouldn’t have caught quickly.”

Zeil approached a large pile of ash as he nodded, “Your right… look here, it looks like something was burned here as kenneling, something dry and very flammable.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself as he nodded, “Exactly… something was burned here… it’s the only way the fire could have gotten hot enough to spread like it did.”
Zeil looked around, “Are there any warriors in the area?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “No I told them to stay behind for their own safety, we don’t need the fire to catch again should there be some smoldering embers out here.”
Zeil nodded, “Good, for the time being only you and I should be allowed in this area… I have an idea of what happened but it may require a little… dishonesty.”
The chief thought to himself, “Dishonesty? What do you mean?”
Zeil nodded, “I have a feeling the one responsible for this was from another tribe… and I'll give you one guess as to who.”
Chief Basarum sighed, “The Southern Tribe… but there is a definite lack of proof in this theory that we must take into account. If we assume and accuse them of this with nothing to show, then we only entice them to react with hostility.”

Zeil shook his head as he replied with disgust, “So… damming the river and trying to burn our food isn’t hostile enough?”
Seeing what Zeil was thinking Chief Basarum replied, “On any other instance, this would be a deliberate attack on the tribe. One that would justify a declaration of war… but without proof, declaring such a thing would both go against the lessons taught by Chief Rafi, and provoke the other tribes to become hostile to the tribe that declares war.”
Zeil shook his head as he turned away, “Then I'll be the one to go.”
The chief was confused, “Go? Go wh- Wait… Don’t tell me…”
Zeil nodded, “I'll travel to the Southern Tribes and demand he put a stop to these games.”
Chief Basarum spoke in anger, “You will not! I forbid it!. Any action you make will be a direct response of the Northern Tribes.”
Zeil shook his head, “Chief, I understand where this puts you… but this thorn on his side is deliberately my fault because he can't handle the fact that I'm supposed to become the mage. If I meet him face to face… then maybe we can settle this peacefully. And if it makes you feel any better, I can take a few warriors with me, you know, as witnesses.”

Chief Basarum gave Zeil a curious look, “Witnesses?... who?”
Zeil replied without hesitation, “Kante, and the guard we talked to yesterday. You know, the one who searched the storage hut, Maximus I believe his name was.”
Chief Basarum replied, “You answered rather quickly… any reason why you chose those two?”
Zeil replied, “Maximus because he is a witness to the whole dam incident a few months ago, as well as this one. And Kante?... well she is a capable warrior now, and I'm sure with her age, the Southern Tribes is less likely to respond to our visit with hostility.”
Chief Basarum was unsure as he replied, “No zebra will be harmed… I want your full guarantee that you will not so much as raise a hoof to any member of the Southern Tribe.”
Zeil nodded, as he replied, “As future mage of Zebrica, you have my word. No harm will come to anyone during this visit. Not to them and certainly not to us.”

Chief Basarum sighed in defeat, “Fine… then I will trust to hold you on your word. Just… watch over Kante. She will obey your instruction, but I worry her age may be too much of a hindrance on her self-control.”
Zeil smiled, “I think your underestimating her. Kante is young, and very inexperienced, but she knows that following instruction is one of the most important rules of being a tribal warrior. I know, I taught her that lesson personally.”
Basarum nodded, “Just watch over her… whe- if she should ever lose herself to instinct… I only hope you can accept what happens next.”
Zeil nodded as he turned away, “Don’t worry chief, I'll be sure to watch her closely, and if she losses herself, I'll be sure to regain control for her. After all a war between the tribes is bad for all of us, myself included.”
As Zeil trotted off, Chief Basarum mumbled quietly to himself, “I hope so… I’ve lost a daughter before, and I don’t want to lose one permanently.”

Hours later just after sunrise, Zeil, Kante and Maximus were nearing the edge of the southern village. Kante and Maximus traveled with their padded warrior garb and spears while Zeil traveled only with his cloak giving the appearance of a VIP with his body guards. As they neared the village Maximus nervously spoke, “Mage Zeil… w-why are we here again? I'm having a hard time understanding why we traveled all the way to the Southern Tribe.”
Zeil replied, “We traveled here to inform Chief Muji of the events in the Northern Tribe… I have reason to suspect that he is somehow involved.”
The guard replied, “And… why am I here?”
Zeil replied, “You were the one who informed us of the dam incident a few months ago, and the one who investigated the missing straw bale that is suspected to be used in last night’s fire. Your whiteness is important evidence in also claiming our suspicion against the Southern Tribe. However… take note that for the most part, you and Kante are supposed to be my whiteness and bodyguard to ensure our visit doesn’t become hostile. So you will follow my instruction and say nothing unless I tell you to. I want to test the chief myself before pushing any blame.”
Kante nodded and spoke with authority, “Understood brother.”
Maximus hesitated then replied with a less enthusiastic response, “Yes Mage Zeil.”

As soon as the three approached the first huts at the end of the Southern Tribe’s village, a small number dust coated warriors approached them and pointed their spears as one spoke, “Stop there! You will go no further!”
As the southern warriors moved to surround them, Zeil spoke, “We are of the Northern tribe… we come bearing no harm but we have come to see Chief Muji of an important matter.”
The warrior shook his head, “Northern Tribes requesting to see the chief? Under what business have you come to speak?”
Zeil lowered the hood on his cloak as he replied, “Business set by the Mage of Zebrica.”
As soon as he heard those words, the guard hesitated as the rest of the northern warriors whispered amongst themselves until finally the lead soldiers spoke, “You are mage Zeil?”
Zeil nodded, “I will be, once my training is complete. Either way, you know as well as I that any business of the mage whether he be trained or training isn’t to be ignored.”
The warrior nodded, “Then I will show you to the chief… but your body guard and the filly will leave their spears behind.”
Kante started to speak in anger, “I'm a warrior t-“
Zeil interrupted, “They will leave their weapons here… so long as you assure us that we will have no need for them while here… and that includes defending ourselves from you.”

Zeil gave the lead guard a serious look as the guard felt uneasy as he replied, “We will abide by Zebrican law, you came harboring no harm to us and we will show none in return.”
Zeil nodded, “Thank you… Kante, Maximus…”
Nodding at the instruction, both Kante and Maximus handed over their spears as the leading southern guard spoke, “This way, I will show you to the Chief.”
Nodding, Zeil and his party followed the surrounding warriors towards the Southern Tribe’s temple. As they arrived Zeil was surprised, the Southern Tribe’s temple wasn’t as tall and majestic as the north, but what it lacked in height it made up for in mystery as the stone building seemed to curve down underground for what seemed to be a deep and fortified building. Carrying on, the leading guards led Zeil and his group into the temple, down a large set of stone stairs and into a throne room that seemed much larger then Chief Basarum’s.

As the doors to the room opened, Chief Muji sat in a stone throne at the back of the room as he took one look at the party before standing and beginning to chuckle. With no words the chief’s chuckles turned to simple laughter, then continued into a fit of hilarity as Zeil, Kante, and Maximus continued into the room. With the chief laughing too hard to speak, Zeil and his party stopped a few feet from the ruling zebra as they paused and waited patiently to be addressed. Finally Chief Muji was able to cease his laughing enough to speak through his chuckles, “This… this is all they could muster? A wannabe Mage, A single warrior, and a filly? Either Basarum has gone senile in his old age, or else he intended on playing this joke for my amusement.”
Annoyed, Kante stepped forward as she started to speak, “What did you say y-“
Zeil held his hoof out to silence her as he spoke using what Zebrican tradition he knew “Chief Muji of the Northern Tribe, I have come to address you with a matter of concern… will you hear me?”
Able to stop his laughter but holding his smile, Chief Muji sat back in his throne as he replied with an interested look, “I suppose you humored me enough, so I shall humor you… speak freely false mage.”

Ignoring the insult, Zeil spoke, “Recently, we’ve had a string of incidents in the Northern Tribes that are quit peculiar.”
Chief Muji rested his head on his hoof, “Is that so?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… a few months ago, a dam was constructed across the river that flowed through the tribe’s farmlands. The dam was constructed poorly, but it carried out its purpose which was to block water from entering the Northern Tribes.”
The chief smiled with pride, “I see… yet I don’t understand how this concerns the Southern Tribe in any way.”
Kante stepped forward, “We know you built it! Why don’t you admi-”
“Kante! That’s enough!!!”
Recoiling at Zeil’s command, Kante stepped back as Chief Muji stood from his throne and spoke, “That is a strong accusation little filly… one that would require proof. So… do you have any to present?”
Hanging her head in shame, Kante stayed quiet as Zeil spoke, “No… though I agree what the theory, we don’t have any evidence to support it.”
The chief shrugged his shoulders, “Then as far as I'm concerned, we cannot be held accountable. With no proof of our involvement who’s to say it even happened, let alone that we caused it.” he sat back down, “luckily I'm in a happy mood so I won't take offence to your outburst little filly. Provided you leave since this business is finished.”

Zeil shook his head as he spoke with a little more authority, “Actually… there is more. Last night before sunrise, a fire was started in the farmlands of the same tribe. The fire claimed a large amount of the farmland… and when Chief Basarum and I investigated where it started we found more. Evidence that it has been started deliberately… and… a victim.”
Both Kante and Maximus gave Zeil a shocked look as the chief replied with intrigue, “A victim? Do tell…”
Zeil replied, “Yes… a victim. A foal caught in the fields at the time of the fire. Seems the poor soul was surrounded and couldn’t escape the blaze. He burned to death out there.”
The chief nodded with a smile, “I see… and you suspect me for this blaze?”
Zeil nodded, “I do…”
“And your proof?”
Zeil hesitated for a few seconds as he stared into the face of a calm smiling chief, then the mage smiled as he replied, “I have more than just proof.”

Zeil with a smile on his face took a few steps back from where he was standing until he found himself standing right between Kante and Maximus. Then with force, Zeil grabbed the back of Maximus’s neck as he threw the warrior to the ground in front of him as the unexpected action caused Chief Muji to stand in shock as Zeil spoke with authority, “I have the one who started the fire… YOU’RE SPY!!!”
Confused the entire room looked at Zeil in shock as Maximus shuffled to his hooves and backed away from Zeil as he spoke, “Wha- but ho- I mean, why would you say this?”
Zeil replied, “I had a suspicion about you since the dam incident. First, you said you decided to look into the river even though it is well outside normal guard routes. Next when I was feeling the earth for moisture, you said it had to had dried up overnight… but with the amount of moisture just under the soil, it had been less than an hour. My guess, you never investigated that site did you? I’m guessing you ran to get us and let us know about the incident right after you finished directing your fellow northern warriors in constructing the thing. But what really gave you away… was your emotions.”
Maximus was nervous, “M- my emotions?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… I am a changeling. I can sense the emotions and species of many creature within a certain distance of me. And that day… you had it radiating from you like a stench.”

Maximus looked at Chief Muji in worry before looking back as he replied, “But… I didn’t feel any emotions that could have said I was responsible that day. At least… I don’t think I did.”
Zeil nodded, “No you’re right, you didn’t have any emotions that day… amongst that herd of nervous farmers, warriors and even the uneasy chief who was worried about what could have stopped the river… you were as cool as a cucumber. You felt so sure of yourself that you didn’t need to feel pride or guilt. All you had to do, was stand by, and react the same as every zebra else. Then… there was yesterday… you investigated the possible theft of a missing bale of straw correct? Then… I noticed the dust on your shoulder… grain dust.”
“Wh-what?”
Zeil continued, “You took those bales of straw and hid them off somewhere. Then that night, you brought them back set them out in the field and lit them on fire.”

Chief Muji smiled in amusement, “This is interesting and all… but I hardly see how this stallion’s crime ties me to any of this… perhaps he worked alone?”
Zeil shook his head, “He did… but under your order.”
“Oh? What makes you say that?”
Zeil replied, “Once again… his emotions gave it all away. I said that a foal was killed in the fire right? Well that was a lie. I said that to gauge the emotions of every zebra in this room… and do you know what the results were? Kante, was shocked as she is right now. The guards surrounding us, felt a sense of sympathy, after all it’s tragic to hear the life of one so young being taken before its time.” He looked down to Maximus, “This traitor, felt a deep sense of guilt as if he were deliberately responsible for the fire… but what set apart from all else.” He looked back to the chief, “Was you… your emotions, chief of the Southern Tribes… was of pride. Pride, that you have achieved something that pulls you closer to your goal, pride that you have secretly won with none other the wiser, Pride… as if the plan you had set in motion was coming together nicely… am I wrong Chief?”

Maximus gave his chief a worried look as Chief Muji hesitated for a few seconds with a look in hidden anger on his face. After a few more seconds, the chief smiled as he replied, “Very amusing Mr Zeil… truly it is. And spoken with such authority and confidence… I could believe you were some sort of storybook detective with that speech… but… I and the rest of the tribal chiefs can't take your word on your so called evidence. After all, we can't be sure what you say is truth at all, and it’s not like any of us can feel emotions as you so claim… so your argument is null and void. As for this stallion… I’ve never seen him before in my life… perhaps he is a drifter trying to sow seeds of distrust within the tribes… so if that is the case…” He looked to his closest guard, “Silence him.”
Nodding the warrior raised his spear and with one accurate throw, pierced the Maximus’s chest as the fatal impact pierced his heart, killing him in less than three seconds after impact. Although the attack was a shock to both Kante and Zeil, Zeil still held his composure as Chief Muji stood from his throne and spoke, “I will thank you for bringing this criminal’s action to my attention Zeil… though it would be better next time, if you brought it to your chief’s attention. I don’t feel like cleaning up after the Northern Tribe’s incompetence.” He turned his back to Zeil in dismissal “Now go… I’ve had my fill of your company, and now I find it less amusing then before… Leave.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Very well, I will take my leave. And speaking of incompetence… perhaps you can choose a better spy next time… I grow tired of meaningless brain teasers. If you are the Southern Tribes known for unmatchable strategy… perhaps, you can take it up a few notches so that you can reach my level. Otherwise I'll grow bored of these games you choose to play.”

With no concern to his insult, Zeil turned away as he spoke, “Let’s go Kante, we have a few hours till we get back to the tribe so I’d rather leave now while the sun is still low.”
Trying not to laugh at Zeil’s cleverly disguised insult, Kante cleared her throat as she replied, “Yes brother Zeil.”
As the two started to leave, Chief Muji turned and yelled while failing to hold back most of his anger, “You will never be mage Zeil… I'll make sure of that. My brother was the one true mage, you are nothing compared to him! You hear me? NOTHING!”
Zeil paused just before leaving the throne room as he spoke with his back turned to the chief, “I cannot say what type of stallion your brother was… but if he failed the final trial, then he wasn’t meant to be Mage.”
With that as his only response Zeil without taking a single look back to the southern chief continues out of the throne room as Chief Muji began trembling with rage.

As Zeil and Kante left the temple, and exited the tribe, the Southern Tribe warriors gave Kante back her spear as they started making their way further from the village’s edge. As they continued Kante was smiling with pride in their accomplishment, however something was on her mind as her smile faded and she spoke, “Brother Zeil?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes?”
She replied, “Something feels…. Off. I mean… we completed what we came to do… and then some. But… why do I feel like this was too easy?”
Zeil replied, “It’s not that it was too easy… it feels foreboding. That’s your warrior instincts, we both know that this isn’t over. And even though I did speak with hostility at the end… it will probably escalate what may come next.”
Kante was curious, “And what will come next?”
Zeil sighed, “I know the type of zebra Chief Muji is, he is proud of his knowledge and doesn’t like to be outsmarted in any way. His response I’m hoping will be directed towards me and me alone, but he will respond. Let’s just get back for now, we need to report to Chief Basarum about Maximus and his treason.
Kante asked, “Was he really a traitor?”
Zeil nodded, “He was, that’s why Chief Muji killed him. He wanted to silence Maximus before he had a chance to spill the beans on his plans.”
Kante was confused, “Beans?”
Zeil smiled, “It’s just an expression. I'll explain it later. For now, I have to brace myself. Chief Basarum is going to be angry when we get back.”
Kante replied with curiosity, “Why? You exposed a spy and showed proof that Chief Muji was responsible. Why would he be mad?”
Zeil sighed, “I gave him my word that no harm would come to anyone.”

Back in the Southern Tribe’s temple, Chief Muji sat in rage as he looked at the dead spy that laid in the center of the room. Though the other guards would have removed the corpse by now, no word was given by the angered chief as a warrior approached, “Chief… would you like us to remove Max’s body and prepare him for burial?”
The chief replied, “Five years… five years he had been amongst their warriors. And the fools didn’t notice a thing. And within one of those years this false mage comes out of nowhere and points him out. Then he makes a fool of me by insulting my brother right to my face… I will not stand for this.”
With the obvious anger in his tone, the warrior backed away without a reply as Chief Muji continued, “Well if anything I think I agree with him. These games have gone on long enough.” He stood from his throne, “Assemble the war party and begin attack plan Z.”
The warrior was surprised, “Attack Plan Z?”
Chief Muji smiled, “Yes… gather every able-bodied stallion in the tribe. And assemble four blockade parties to lock down the other tribes. Then with our main force, we will attack the Northern Tribes. Its times I reduce that village and their false mage to ash.”

Bk11/Ch2 A Fate Fulfilled and a Broken Vow

Book 11/Chapter 2
A Fate Fulfilled and a Broken Vow
(Year 6, Month 01, Day 5)

Zeil flipped through the pages of the old tome as he looked at the strange symbols and shook his head, “Nope… nothing. On the first spell page I can make out a few words… but not a single complete sentence.”
Chief Basarum sat in his throne looking at Zeil in the center of the room as he spoke, “I wouldn’t think so… the book can read you far better then you can read it. The spell protecting it will only reveal its contents should one experienced enough holds it. That is why you have been practicing your ability for the past few months. The better you get, the more worthy you appear to the book. Though… you’re doing this for another reason then just that.”
Zeil gave Basarum a curious look, “Another reason?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes… the Mage of Zebrica is always supported by the chiefs of the four zebra tribes. Each tribe usually prepares a trial for the mage, of which represents what the tribes are known for. Strategy, strength, magic, and ingenuity. Once the chief accepts you… you can proceed with the next. Though… this is separate from the book’s requirement, it is possible to be accepted by the book first, but usually the enchanter of light sets the goal on the chief’s acceptance first. It makes it a little easier on your motivation, even if the outer tribes don’t count. To have all zebra tribes support behind you, makes you confident when you finally face the final tri-“
“Chief Basarum!!!”

At that moment, a gazelle rushed into the room and stopped next to Zeil as he tried to catch his breath from his frantic run. Before the winded gazelle could speak, a warrior entered, “Forgive me chief, he rushed passed me before I could stop him.”
Before Chief Basarum could reply, the gazelle started speaking through his breaths, “Chief Basarum… I have… urgent news from the outer tribes. Chief Tanak is being held in his main city.”
Chief Basarum stood in shock, “What!?!”
The gazelle nodded, “Northern tribe warriors surrounded the gazelle city of Tangka to the north. They locked down the city making it impossible to travel in or out. I was able to slip by their forces but… I was lucky.”
Basarum spoke in worry, “Have they hurt anyone?”
The gazelle shook his head, “No… they are only blocking all traffic. But Chief Tanak has already threatened to react with hostility unless they broke their ranks. As we speak, he is probably assembling the gazelle warriors to fight back.”
Zeil thought to himself for a second, “If the outer tribes are blocked by the Southern tribes… it’s possible the others are the same. Meaning…”
At that moment, Kante and Lady Zera entered the room as Kante called in haste, “Chief Basarum!!! An army of Southern Warriors has been seen heading this way!”

Chief Basarum have them a concerned look as he replied, “What? How many?”
Zera replied, “A thousand at least… they are assembling in the outer farmlands with, Chief Muji at its front. I’ve taken the liberty of calling in all residents to the village and assembling the warriors to meet them. However I feel our odds will be greater, if there chief and the mage is there to meet with Chief Muji at the front.”
Chief Basarum gave her a stern look, “Hearing you talk in such a way leads me to believe we are at war.”
Kante replied, “Is that not what this is chief?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “We are moving to defend ourselves… until they launch the attack, I refuse to call this a war and I will not be the one to make the first strike.”
Lady Zera gave him a serious look, “Husband… I know you want nothing more than to fallow Chief Rafi’s teachings… but if the worst come to it… we must do what is required by fate.”
Chief Basarum looked to her as he replied, “And what does it require? Did you see anything of this?”
She shook her head, “No visions of this nor its results have been seen, but I do recall visions of afterwards… for the most part.”
Chief Basarum trotted passed her as he replied, “Then let’s ensure this fight doesn’t happen.”

Less than an hour later, Chief Basarum, and Zeil stood at the front of a large line of armed warriors as Lady Zera and Kante stood behind them. Of the four Kante and Chief Basarum were armed while Zeil and Lady Zera stood unarmed wearing cloaks. With an overcast above keeping the empty field ahead shaded in shadow, the army of Northern zebra stood ready as they watched an army of Southern Warriors approach in a long similar line with only Chief Muji standing at the front. As the Approaching warriors entered the area, they marched closer to the Northern Tribe until finally Chief Muji held up his staff as he called, “SHIKA!!!”
With that order, the approaching army stopped a couple hundred feet from the Northern Tribe as Chief Muji turned to his forces and called a second time, “Tayari!”
As that was called, the army of zebra which stood in two ranks readied themselves as the first rank pointed their spears and readied themselves for a charge. Seeing that Chief Muji was about to attack without provocation, Chief Basarum stepped forward as he called, “SHIKA!!!” Quickly relaying his order, Chief Basarum turned to his army and continued, “Shimama chini!!! Stand Down!”
He looked back to the opposing army as he called, “Do not charge! Brothers let us Speak!”
As that was called, the opposing army hesitated for a few seconds as Chief Basarum, Zeil, Kante, and Lady Zera started trotting towards the center of the vast empty field as Chief Muji smiled before calling to his troops, “You heard him, shimama chini! Let’s let the coward try to talk his way out of this.”

Confused, the hesitating army looked at one another before raising their weapons and standing down as Chief Muji along with a few bodyguards, casually trotted onto the center of the field to meet with the opposing army’s leader. As the two groups met on the battlefield, Chief Muji gave a smug smile as he spoke, “I should have known you would try to talk this out. You’ve always been a coward trying to use words over actions.”
Chief Basarum asked, “Muji, why are you doing this? You come out of nowhere bringing an amassed army and even readied a charge before stating your reason. Why?”
Chief Muji pointed to Zeil as he spoke, “I warned you, I mentioned that if you continue to disrespect my brother by training this false mage, that I would bring my army down on you without mercy. Then, he comes to my tribe and disrespects me to my face. I will not stand for this. I will not allow him to continue this training. And I certainly won't accept him as the Mage of Zebrica.”

Wanting to speak, Kante stepped forward but Lady Zera stopped her as Chief Basarum replied, “Please Muji… stop this. There is no need for bloodshed, there never has been.”
Chief Muji shook his head, “Your right… there isn’t a need for zebra blood to be spilled on this day… however.” He pointed his spear at Zeil, “He isn’t a zebra. He is a mockery and an abomination that needs to be removed. So… if you want our peace to continue, this is my one and only offer.”
Chief Muji took a step back, stopped pointing his spear, and spoke with authority, “Either you renounce this imposter of his position, and have him put to death at once… or I will launch my attack and destroy every zebra of the Northern Tribe… and I mean every zebra, whether they be stallion.” He looked at lady Zera, “Mare…” then to Kante, “Or foal.” He looked back to Basarum, “I will bring death to any who choose to stand beside the false mage.”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “You know I can't do that. Zeil is the future mage. And as the enchanter of light, I must uphold my duty in teaching him. Even at the risk of my own life.”

Chief Muji smiled a wicked smile as he replied, “A fool to the end I see… very well. Then prepare to die a fool’s death.”
With nothing more to say, Chief Muji turned to trot away as Zeil stepped forward, “Wait.”
Chief Muji stopped but didn’t turn to him as he replied, “I have nothing to say to you false mage.”
Zeil continued, “So you think that this is what it takes to hide your insecurity? Or are you too petty to admit the real problem here? We all know you were out to attack the Northern Tribe long before I arrived. Don’t use me as an excuse.”
Chief Muji replied without turning around, “I don’t know what you’re talking about?”
“Then prove it… if this is all about me, then why don’t we settle it, here and now?”
Chief Muji turned to Zeil as he replied, “What are you talking about?”
Zeil replied as he stood with authority, “I'm right here, if you want to face me, then face me. Leave the rest of the tribe out of it.”
Chief Muji chuckled, “Face you… are you challenging me to a duel?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes.”
Kante stepped closer to Zeil as she whispered, “Brother no… your vow.”
Zeil ignored her as he continued, “A duel… you against me. If I win, you take your army and leave vowing never to harass the Northern Tribe again.”
Chief Muji nodded, “If you win, I die. And the same goes for you. No exceptions, and no negotiation. It’s kill… or be killed.”

Zeil hesitated for a second as he stared into the eyes of the immovable opponent before replying with a sharp and clear, “Done.”
Chief Muji smile, “Well, you really are fearless aren’t you… good, then this should prove interesting.” He looked to his bodyguard, “You will not get involved, even if… titans forbid, I seem to be at a disadvantage… understood?”
The warrior nodded before Chief Muji looked to his army raised his weapon high and called, “Kifo Kwa Mmoja!”
After that was called, the southern army raised their spears in the air and tapped them on the ground as they called in return “AH ROOT!!!”
Confused, Zeil stood in silence as Chief Basarum handed him his spear as he spoke, “Kifo Kwa Mmoja, it means death to one. It’s a chant of acceptance to a duel. Basically he is informing his army that if he is killed by you within the next few minutes that it was an agreed duel to the death and that no action should be taken against you. By the way… I don’t approve of this.”
Zeil asked, “Then why didn’t you object?”
Chief Basarum sighed, “Somehow… I knew it would come to this. As your teacher, I knew a lesson like this would arise eventually, I just didn’t think it would be… well… like this. Regardless, you know what you have to do right? You have to kill him.”

Zeil shook his head as he replied, “I will try to end this without bloodshed, most when actually faced with death can become reasonable.”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “You can try… but you will fail. A duel to the death is just that, though if one surrenders then the other can spare them… but very few every try. It’s a great cowardice to attempt something so shameful.”
Zeil nodded, “Then I should try as hard as I can.” he looked back to the northern warriors and raised his spear called, “Kifo Kwa Mmoja!”
The northern warriors responded the same as the southern by raising their spears in the air then tapping them on the ground as they called “AH ROOT!”
Chief Basarum sighed in defeat as he replied, “Fine… if I can't talk you out of it… then I can only wish you luck. Though I will admit, the fact that you adapt to our customs is unnerving at times.”
Zeil nodded, “I'll take that as a compliment.”

After that was said, Chief Basarum, Kante, Lady Zera, and the guards that were beside Chief Muji stepped back from the area and gave the two some space as they both looked to eachother and readied their spears for the fight. With their weapons at the ready, Zeil took a quick glance at the overcast sky above, but as he looked back, Chief Muji had already begin his charge as Zeil only had enough time to parry the thrusted spear away. Seeing his attack failed, Chief Muji spoke, “Keep your head in the fight false mage.”
With those words, Chief Muji Continued his barrage of thrust, slashes and jabs with his spear while Zeil moved easily to block, parry, and dodge each attack with ease. Over and over Chief Muji tried to make his way around Zeil’s defense but the skilled changeling proved too quick for any attack to make it through. Finally as Chief Muji started wearing himself out, Zeil found himself an opening in Chief Muji’s attacks as he parried a swing away, then countered with one single trust as the blade flew by the chief’s face clipping part of his mane as the surprise attack caused Chief Muji to jump back to ready himself for Zeil’s next attack.

Now concerned, Chief Muji held his ground as Zeil could see his concern and spoke, “What? You didn’t think that I didn’t have any experience in a fight did you? I was a warrior for my queen back in the day, that and a few years of fighting my way across the world helped me learn a thing or two. Think of it as, me learning the best of both the Northern and Southern Tribe… although if you are the best the southern have to offer… I feel a little sorry for you.”
With Zeil’s taunts working, Chief Muji charged again in anger as he attacked with slightly faster attacks, but with less accuracy then before. Seeing that his anger was getting the better of him, Zeil parried one of the trusts away as he turned his spear around and trusted the staff towards Chief Muji with enough force to knock the air from his lungs. With Chief Muji stunned and backing away, Zeil made a small vine grow from the ground behind him as Chief Muji tripped over the vine and fell to the ground. On the ground, Chief Muji had no time to react as Zeil placed his spear’s blade against the chief’s throat as he held the pinned chief down. Seeing his hesitation, Chief Muji spoke, “What’s the matter Changeling? You got me where you want me… now finish it.”
Zeil shook his head as he replied, “Stand down and I'll spare your life.”
Chief Muji was surprised, “What?”
Zeil replied, “There isn’t a need to kill you. Your tribe still needs its chief, and if I kill you now it will only incite anger in your tribe. If anything sparing you will be better for the both of us.”
Chief Muji replied, “Better? You think that this is better for me?”
Zeil replied, “Better to live and repent then to die with regret.”
Insulted, Chief Muji spoke, “That would assume I actually regret something… but if I give up now, then the disgrace will be my regret!”

Annoyed, Chief Muji raised his hoof and hit Zeil’s spear away from his throat as he brought his own spear up and swung it towards Zeil. When the chief attacked, Zeil found himself too close to do anything as he jumped back just barely out of range as the blade of Muji’s spear clipped a few hairs from his mane. With Zeil’s attempt at mercy insulting him deeply, Chief Muji continued his attacks while Zeil tried all he could to back away, but with Chief Muji too close to counter or block, all Zeil could do was dodge, duck, and back away from each attack as the chief got closer and closer with each strike. Seeing that her teacher could be in trouble Kante looked to Chief Basarum, “Chief, Brother Zeil needs help, with his vow he might-”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “Do not interfere, I was afraid this would happen, but we cannot step into a fight that isn’t our own. This is in his hooves now.” He looked to his wife as he saw her with her eyes closed in deep focus, “Zera?”
The mare shook her head, “It’s no use… the future of this fight is… hazy. Either it interferes with an earlier vision, or, the fact that he is the mage is still stopping me from seeing the end of this fight. I will continued trying… but for now, the conclusion of this fight is unknown to me.”

Back on the field, Zeil tried to take any opportunity he could to block or counter any of Chief Muji’s attacks, but Chief Muji left no time for him to do anything. Zeil even tried to use his mage ability to help him as well, but with no time to focus, even the overcast above wasn’t enough to help him grow the vines. Luckily Zeil noticed Muji’s attacks slowing as he took advantage of a hesitant thrust of his spear as he dodged the thrust, grabbed the spear right behind the blade and punched the shaft with enough force to shatter the wood, causing the spears blade to fall to the ground. When the blade fell to the ground, Zeil quickly swung his spear low enough to swipe Chief Muji’s hooves as the chief fell to the ground. Before Chief Muji could react, Zeil quickly pinned him down as he placed his spear against the chief’s throat a second time, “Enough… Face it… you won't win, just give it up already. For yo-”

All of a sudden Zeil’s senses were hit all at once as his body numbed, before quickly returning to normal with a sharp and agonizing pain in his side. With the shock causing him to release both the chief and his weapon, Zeil stumbled back a few paces as he looked to his side to see that the Chief Muji had picked up his broken spear’s blade and jammed it into Zeil’s side as the injured changeling looked back just as Chief Muji kicked upwards hitting him in his face as the impact tossed Zeil a few feet away. As Zeil hit the ground, his body locked up in pain as he could only muster enough strength to roll onto his side, grab onto the spear blade that was imbedded in his side, and pull it out before screaming in pain. Smiling at his accomplishment, Chief Muji picked himself up as he picked up Zeil’s spear and started towards his defeated foe, “Look at you now mage… Ignorant to try and spare my life a second time… didn’t that teacher of yours teach you anything? Mercy is for the weak, if I had known you were like this, then I would have challenged you the day we met and spared us the time.”

As the southern chief trotted towards his defeated foe, the oracle opened her eyes in shocked realization as she spoke, “No… Kante’s fate… and Lucifer… those vision!”
With Chief Basarum being the only one to hear her words, he looked to his wife, “What? The visions you had? Are they happening soon? When?”
She looked to her husband in shock, “Both… now…”
As that was said, Chief Basarum’s eyes widened as he quickly looked to Kante as the young filly finally had enough before charging into the fight with barley enough time for the chief to call, “KANTE NO!!!”
Ignoring his command, the young filly charged towards Chief Muji with her spear at the ready, as the dueling chief rolled Zeil onto his back and raised Zeil’s spear over his body, “Any last words, false mage? Or will you accept your failer with silence?”
Before Zeil could speak, he sensed Kante’s rage quickly approaching as he looked to the side just as the filly jumped into the air and thrusted her spear down in an attempt to strike Chief Muji with a single blow. Although he wasn’t expecting the attack at all, Chief Muji still noticed her attack with barely enough time to jump back as Kante missed her target, but managed to counter the dodge and attack with a barrage of strikes and thrusts that managed to back the chief away from her wounded teacher. With each strike getting closer and closer to hitting her target, Kante continued to attack quickly and precisely making it impossible for Chief Muji to counter.

As he backed away, Chief Muji tried to find and opening to attack through, however as he tried to seek out the filly’s weak spots, he accidently backed onto a loose stone on the ground as he stepped onto the stone only to have it slide out from under his hoof as the small distraction allowed Kante to graze his cheek with the edge of her spear. With the fight carrying on nearby, “Zeil rolled himself back onto his chest as he tried to focus on using his mage ability to help the young filly, but with the intense pain in his side he was unable to focus on using his magic as he saw something that surprised him. As the young filly expertly held her own against the Zebrican chief, her placement mark appeared on her side as Zeil saw a marking of an oval shield and cross spears appear in the filly’s flank without her even noticing. Smiling at her accomplishment, Zeil couldn’t help but feel a since of pride for the young filly, however that pride was soon shattered as the element of surprise in Kante’s attacks soon was lost, as the chief found his opening and readied himself for his first and only counter.

As Kante fought with her barrage of thrusts and slashes, she eventually tried to attack with a vertical slash from above as the chief saw this coming before blocking the attack, parrying it upwards and out of the way. With the small window made, Chief Muji then proceeded to turn his spear around as he thrusted the back of the staff forwards hitting Kante in her chest and stunning her further. Then turning his body to create momentum, Chief Muji spun around while flipping his spear as he brought the blade around and swung at an upwards diagonal slash. Without expecting the attack, Kante wasn’t able to defend as the chief’s spear slashed upwards running along her chest, across the side of her neck before grazing the edge of her ear as the deadly attack left a deep cut along the entirety of Kante’s body. Gasping in shock, Zeil, Chief Basarum, and Lady Zera watched in horror as the wounded filly was stunned from the attack, leaving Chief Muji to continue his spin and bring his hind hooves up kicking the young injured filly as Kante was tossed like a rage doll towards Zeil before hitting the ground rolling a few feet from her injured teacher. Seeing this Zeil called as he held his own wound and stumbled towards her, “KANTE!!! NO!!!”

As Zeil approached Kante, he sat down as he picked up the weak filly as she only had enough strength to look him in the eye as she tried to speak, “Bro-ther… I… you’re…”
Seeing her fatal wounds bleed perfectly, Zeil shook his head as he spoke, “S-save your strength… you’re going to be alright.”
Knowing the truth, Kante shook her head slowly as she tried to speak her last words, “D-don’t… kn-know yo… your…”
With no strength left, Kante could only look her brother in the eye as her aura faded away as she took her final breath. Shaking his head, Zeil spoke, “No… NO Kante!... Wait… your mark appeared… you’re a protector… that’s your place. You can't go, not yet. KANTE!!!”
As the filly went limp in his arms, Zeil could only hold the young filly in despair as the blood from her wounds ran down his arms and puddled below him.

Watching from a distance, Chief Basarum started to trot closer as he was stopped as Zera put her hoof out in front of him, “Don’t…”
Surprised, the chief looked to his wife as the mare held a serious look through her tear covered face as she spoke, “Stay back… you can't go out there. Not now that… he is here.”
Knowing that her instruction was dependent on her visions, Chief Basarum held his ground as Chief Muji left Zeil to grieve for the young filly as he trotted to her dropped spear and picked up her weapon. Looking at the blade, Chief Muji spoke from his distance, “It’s a shame… truly it is. Such youth, and plenty of skill to match. If I hadn’t had my guard up, she would surly have ended me. But… even a skilled warrior must know their place. She chose to step in where she didn’t belong, and for that she met a warrior’s end. But don’t worry too much, she won't be alone for long. Now then…” he looked out the corner of his eye at Zeil, “Shall we proceed?”
Zeil didn’t respond, instead he laid Kante on the ground in front of him as he continued sitting with his head hung in despair. Seeing his lack of reaction, Chief Muji smiled, “I see… then you truly have lost your will to fight. Very well, then let me end you quickly.”

With an intent on using Kante’s spear, Chief Muji moved to trot closer, but as he did, he felt something holding Kante’s spear in place as he looked down to see vines growing from the ground that had wrapped around the shaft and stopped it from being moved. Smiling at the vines Chief Muji spoke, “What’s this? Are these the black vines that I’ve heard about? Is this your last effort to stop me from ending you? Such a pathetic attempt, it’s truly sad. Fine… I'll use your spear instead.”
As he released Kante’s spear leaving it standing in place from the vines, Chief Muji began trotting towards Zeil as the defeated changeling continued sitting in place. As Chief Muji approached he felt somewhat disappointed. To see that the cleaver, cocky, and insulting changeling being reduced to a silent sad state seemed to lack justice as he spoke, “Did this filly truly mean this much to you? She isn’t even the same species as you, why should you care about her in any way?”
Zeil didn’t answer, instead he continued holding his same defeated state as Chief Muji sighed, “Fine… if you want the pain to end so badly, then I'll just do it and be done with it.”
With that said, Chief Muji trotted around to Zeil’s side as he raised Zeil’s spear and spoke, “Goodbye, false mage, Know that this is personal.”

As that was said, Chief Muji dropped the spear with the full intent on striking Zeil’s vital points in the side of his neck. However as the spear neared the defeated changeling time seemed to slow as Zeil’s eyes quickly changed from their zebra green, to a crimson red. In that split second the changeling quickly raised his hoof closest to the attacking chief as the zebra hoof quickly changed into a large muscular fist as the large hand stopped the weapon by grabbing both the spear and Chief Muji’s hoof in the exact same grip. Stunned by the unusual transformation Chief Muji stood in shock as Zeil slowly turned his head to the chief as he spoke with a much more menacing voice, “Insolent fool, you truly think this is all that it takes to kill a future Mage of Zebrica? Such ignorance, it would seem that you don’t know your place.”
Chief Muji looked into the deep redness of the changeling’s eyes as it sent a deep fear coursing through his body as he spoke with the only response he could muster, “Wh-what?”

After that was said, Zeil’s appearance slowly transformed as he stood onto his hind hooves and spoke, “You claim to know what make a true warrior, and yet you show the deepest cowardess of all. You try to use cheap tactics of propaganda on your rival’s tribe and allies. You attempt to sow seeds of distrust, then go as far as to use sneak tactics to diminish his resources like a common parasite. From a changeling I would expect such actions, but from the zebra, the most noble of my creations… I would expect better.”
As this was said Zeil slowly grew from his normal Zebra disguise to a disguise that he had never used before. His torso turned into that of a minotaur complete with a muscular physic, muscular arms, and large hands with sharp claws. His face also resembled a minotaur however instead of horns that stretched outward, his horns coiled in resembling more of a ram then a bull. His height grew to match his body as his increase in size caused the gripped spear and chief’s arm to be raised higher in the air till Chief Muji found himself being picked up from the ground as he began hanging from his trapped hoof.

As Zeil’s body finished its full transformation, all who witnessed the change stood in shock. Every zebra to include both the Northern and Southern Tribe armies, reacted in one of two ways, some could only stand frozen in shock with no idea as to how to properly react, while the rest, slowly laid their spears to their side as they all bowed in respect. As most bowed, Chief Basarum and Lady Zera stood in shock as the Northern Chief spoke, “Zeil… he… that’s…”
Zera spoke, “Lucifer… before us… stands the titan Lucifer.”
As Zeil stood with Chief Muji’s weapon and hoof in his grasp, the trapped chief managed to pull his hoof free as he fell to the ground, landed, and jumped far away from the massive titan as the monstrous beast gave him a curious look, before looking down at Kante’s body as he spoke, “I see… so that’s how it happened. To have death awaken him just as it did I all those centuries ago, seems fitting in a cruel sort of way.” He looked up to Chief Muji, “And you caused it didn’t you… well then, allow one last chance for mercy. Stand down now… and you may leave here with your life.”
Chief Muji dashed to his broken spear blade as he stopped short and slide over the weapon as he scooped it up and readied himself before replying, “You only show your true colors by taking that form… but it’s still nothing but a mask. Now I'm not going to kill you not because it’s what we agreed on for this fight, but because this proves you’re too dangerous to leave alive.”

With no concern, Zeil in titan form tossed the spear in his hand away as he replied, “Is that so?… But there is only one here that shifts the balance towards darkness. And it is I who must mend this mistake and balance things as they should. But if you feel you can, then come at me.” With his opened palm facing the ground, he pointed his arm towards the chief, “Unlike my reflection… I will hold nothing back.”
Angry with the threat, Chief Muji charged at the titan while holding the spear blade like a dagger as the beast stood with his arm raised waiting for his time to attack. Then as Muji jumped in the air in an attempt to stab the large creature, the titan quickly flipped his opened palm to the sky as three vines jettisoned from the ground as they wrapped around the airborne stallion and stopped him in midair. As the vined quickly coiled around him, Chief Muji gripped his weapon tightly but as the vines wrapped over him, one of the vined wrapped around his torso under his front hooves while another wrapped over pushing a scissor like tension on his arms as the vines tighten and grew. Finally the tension grew too strong for his arms to withstand as loud snaps were heard followed by a blood curdling scream as Chief Muji’s hooves bent outward in an unnatural way causing him to drop his weapon.

When this scream was heard, most of the zebra warriors still standing in shock followed there brethren as they dropped their weapons and bowed in fear, as Chief Basarum and Lady Zera could only stare in shock at the fight before them. With both forearms now broken, Chief Muji’s screams turned to whimpers of pain, as Zeil looked over the bowing armies and spoke, “You will blight these tribes no more chief of the south. As an imbalance, it’s my task to remove you from this world, and so I shall.”
Though he was in incredible pain, Chief Muji pleaded, “I… I surrender… y-you win mage. Pl-please… spare me… no more I beg of you.”
Zeil shook his head, “Twice… twice my reflection held your life within my grasp and yet, you showed no gratitude when he foolishly gave it back. In concern for his morals I offered the same, and still you chose not to yield. Now…” he raised his hand slightly as the vine wrapped around the chief’s throat, “Your life, is mine to take.”
That said, the titan slowly closed his opened palm as the vine around Chief Muji’s neck began tightening more and more until the chief went from trying to breathe, to struggling for his life. Seeing the struggling zebra, Chief Basarum started to step forward but Lady Zera stopped him, “Don’t… it is his fate. We mustn’t act, not until the others arrive.”

Back on the field, the choking chief struggled for air as the large titan stood with his arm still raised. However as he stood, the beast started to cringe in pain as he placed his other hand on his face while he mumbled, “What? No… stop fighting it, He had his chance for mercy, now we must make an example… what… fine… then if you mean for his suffering to end… then I'll end it.”
After saying this, the titan took his hand off his head as he looked to the choking chief as he spoke, “It would seem that the mage doesn’t wish for you to suffer. Take his mercy lightly… and die without pain.”
With his arm up and his now closed palm facing the sky, the titan took only a quick moment after his words before quickly shifting his fist sideways so that his palm was now facing to his left as the quick motion caused the vines to react as the area was soon echoing with the sound of a loud crack from the chief’s neck. As the sound echoed into the area, all the bowing soldiers cringed in fear as Chief Muji’s body became limp and lifeless.

With a careless action the titan slowly opened his sideways fist as the vine around Chief Muji’s body dissolved into ash leaving the dead chief to fall to the ground right beside Kante. As that was done Zeil lowered his hand as the blood left behind from Kante’s wounds remained on his hands as Lady Zera saw this and spoke, “Husband… we must do something… now before he acts.”
Chief Basarum looked to his wife, “What? What do you mean?”
As Zeil looked down at Chief Muji’s corpse, his eyes slowly shifted to Kante’s body as an angry expression came upon his face as his eyes slowly paned upwards towards the Southern Tribe’s army as Lady Zera spoke, “A Titan stands before an army of his creation as the blood of an innocent drips from his claws. At his hooves two victims lay, an innocent youth, and the armies commanding zebra chief. With eyes of rage, the deity wishes to slay more, with himself as his only match.”
With an angry expression, the titan raised his arm towards the army with his palm down as he spoke, “Darkness can be like a virus, and if it plagued your chief… then it can plague you as well… To mend this fault, I will have to cleanse the Southern Tribe.”

Concerned, the Southern Tribe rose from their bow as most backed away in fear, while Zeil sighed, “Pity… I never wanted to do this twice. But… history has a way of repeating itself. Goodbye Southern Tri-“
Before he could finish, a spear fell in from above as it grazed the top of his arm leaving a shallow cut before sticking into the ground next to him. With his arm still raised, Zeil turned to the direction the spear flew in from as he saw a large approaching army of heavily armored zebra, as Chief Chuma stood at the front and called, “Mage Zeil!!! Regain your control and cease this! Otherwise, The Eastern Tribe will attack.”
After that was called, the Eastern Tribe warriors behind their chief pointed their spears as they called, “AH-ROOT!!!”
With little concern, Zeil in his titan form shifted his raised arm so that now it was pointed towards the Eastern Tribe as he spoke, “As I said… a virus. Sadly I will have to rectify this as well.”
As Zeil pointed his arm, his palm slowly turned from facing the ground to facing the sky as a long line of vines started growing from the ground in front of Chief Chuma and his army, however before they could reach their target a loud glass shattering sound was heard as a strange ball of magic shot into the sky from behind Zeil as the ball reached the height of the overcast clouds before exploding into a shockwave of magic that immediately cleared the overcast and forced the sun to shine through.

With the sun beaming down on the area, the vines in front of the Eastern Tribe stopped growing as Zeil turned towards the origin of the ball of light to see Chieftess Mimea standing before an army of her own western warrior enchanters. While next to them, Chief Tanak and his army of multispecies warriors approached as he pointed towards Zeil and called, “NOW MY AVIAN BRETHEREN ATTACK!!!”
As the order was called, a flock of airborne griffin flew in from above as they dropped small canisters from their talons leaving the canisters to fall towards Zeil before exploding right above his head filling the area with large plums of white smoke that was transparent enough to allow sunlight to pass through but thick enough to completely blind the titan target. With all five tribes of Zebrica now in the area, Chief Basarum took this time to memorize where Zeil was standing before the smoke, as he charges into the clouds as fast as he could before the massive titan could regain his sight. As the charging chief got close enough to zee Zeil clearly, he only had a split second as he jumped into the air and grabbed one of Zeil’s coiled horns as his speed and weight was enough to cause the unsuspecting titan to lose his balance and fall the ground with the impact stunning him. Before he could regain his senses, Zeil only had enough time to look up from where he fell as Chief Basarum quickly approached as he raised his hoof, “Sorry Zeil… but this is for your own good.”
With that said, Chief Basarum channeled every bit of strength he had into a single punch as he punched Zeil in his face with enough force to knock the massive titan unconscious.

Bk11/Ch3 Burden of the Oracle, the Chief, and the Changeling

Book 11/Chapter 3
Burden of the Oracle, the Chief, and the Changeling
(Year 6, Month 01, Day 7)

Zeil looked over a vast city from a large balcony in a tall gothic styled castle. Confused, Zeil looked at his hand to realize he was in his titan form as he mumbled, “What? Where am i?”
At that moment a tall slender creature approached him from behind as she spoke, “Apologies my love, I had some royal matters to attend to. I hope you did not wait long.”
Confused, Zeil turned to the creature in surprise, the anthropomorphic female was tall as a normal minotaur, but she was nothing of the sort, this creature seemed to resembled a teenage dragoness, but instead of scales the creature had a smooth but thick skin with long white hair on her head. On her back were large bat like wings while she had horns on her head similar to a demon. Though her legs did have backwards knees, she stood strait and prominent as she held out her clawed hand to him, “Shall we?”
Although Zeil was unsure, his body reacted with a different response as he smiled, “Of course my love, you say you wanted to show me something… lead the way.”
As Zeil reached out to take her hand, the vision started to fade as he immediately opened his eyes to find himself staring at the ceiling of a hut with tears rolling down his face.

Confused even more now, Zeil reached up and wiped his tiers away as he mumbled, “That vision… it wasn’t a vision… it was a memory. But… of what?”
As Zeil looked at his hoof, he realized he was in his reformed changeling form as he immediately had a flashback of a blood covered claw as he sat up in worry, “Kante!”
Almost as soon as he sat up, a surge of pain coursed through his entire body as Zeil immediately cringed before looking around to see a medical zebra in the corner of the room. However as soon as the mare saw him, she dropped the tray of utensils she was carrying as she rushed out of the hut in a combination of concern and fear. Falling back into the pillow in pain, Zeil gripped his side in pain as he looked down to see his stitched wound while at the same time seeing the cut over the top of his right arm. Trying to remember what happened Zeil thought to himself as Lady Zera and the concerned nurse entered the hut as Lady Zera smiled, “You’re alright… that’s a relief. It’s hard to see if you will awaken when I cannot see your future.” She looked to the nurse, “I will take it from here, go inform the chiefs of his progress.”
As the nurse left, Zeil tried to speak, “Lady Zera, the battle… the Southern Tribe, what happened? How long was I…”

With a calming voice, the oracle replied, “Shush, Ease your mind Mage Zeil, you have been unconscious for almost two days now. The battle never happened, and thanks to you, no war ever took place.”
Slightly relieved Zeil sighed as he cringed in his pain, “Oh… good… that’s… that’s good.”
She smiled, “That said… do you remember anything?”
Zeil thought to himself, “It’s… fuzzy, as if it were a dream. The last clear image I remember was… His eyes widened, “Kante in my arms…” he looked at Zera, “Kante… is… is she?”
Lady Zera sighed in disappointment as she replied, “Sister Kante of the North, has fallen in battle. Her death was quick, but… she died a warrior and has earned her mark.”
Looking back up to the ceiling, Zeil’s eyes started to tear up as he replied, “It… it’s my fault. I couldn’t protect her, if I had finished Muji like I was supposed to, then she wouldn’t have stepped into the fight. She wouldn’t have died protecting me.”

Lady Zera approached a table and started wetting a rag as she replied, “It couldn’t have been helped, it was her fate.”
Zeil shook his head, “No… it’s my fault… if I had focused her training around patience, if I had left her back at the tribe, if… if…”
Zera trotted to him with the wet rag as she shook her head, “It wouldn’t have changed it. She was fated to fall, and so she did. Don’t blame yourself for what was meant to happen.”
As she batted the rag over a bruise left on his face from the Chief’s punch he replied, “But she would have been safe. She wou… wait…” he gave her a curious look, “Fated?… did… did you know this would happen?”
Zera nodded as she left the rag next to him and trotted back to the table, “I did.”
Zeil started to get angry, “And you didn’t tell me?”
Zera approached the table, “It would have changed nothing.”

Zeil sat up, “You’re wrong. I could have prepared for it. I could have sent her away, I co-”
Zera insisted, “It would have made no difference.”
Zeil shook his head, “No she would be alive.”
“Something else would have killed her.”
Zeil replied, “And you could have seen that and I could have protected her then!”
Her tone became saddened, “It would still have ended the same.”
Zeil shook his head, “No it wouldn’t not if you had t-”
Zera flung the water bowl off the table as it hit the ground and shattered as she yelled, “Nothing could change it!... Nothing ever can! Don’t you understand!?! Everything I see happens… no matter what we try or what I say, if I see it, it will come to pass!”
Seeing her anger for the first time, Zeil held his silence as Zera wiped away her tears as she sighed, “When Kante’s father fell, she became withdrawn. For the first week she refused to eat or even speak. Worried, my husband asked me to look into her future. He didn’t mind if she never spoke to him, but he wanted to ease his mined in knowing she would find happiness in the near future. But what I saw… was anything but… The Young Warrior will stand between a spear and her friend thereby claiming her mark. This to her shall be her greatest day, as well as her last, for a warrior will meet a warrior’s end.” She looked at the ground in disappointment, “As her fate was seen, there it shall be. Nothing could have been done to change it.”

Though he was still angry, Zeil chose his word carefully as he replied, “I could have changed it.”
She replied, “Are you so sure? You saw it yourself didn’t you? When you arrived, my husband tried to change her fate by refusing to teach her to be a warrior. But with her hopes being on that sole purpose she choose to train herself even when it put here in danger. If he had pushed any harder, then he would only have driven her away. Then… she would have died alone with a feeling of abandonment. And that’s the last thing we wanted.”
Zeil replied, “Then why didn’t you tell me? or her for that matter, if she had only known then she-“
“Would hate us in denial… to tell one that their only dream is unachievable would cause more harm than good. And seeing how attached she was to you, we couldn’t let her hate the only brother she had. Telling you would have either caused you to push her away, to become reluctant in her training, or become overprotective. If she could have any sense of happiness before her death, I would prefer it be genuine.”
Zeil shook his head, “I still could have tried, there was still a chance to change it.”
She shook her head, “No… there wasn’t, no vision is ever falsely seen. Everything good, bad, and otherwise has happened just as I’ve seen it. Even when we try our hardest, nothing changes fate.”
Zeil didn’t reply, instead his looked to the ground in thought as he tried to think of a way he could have prevented this outcome.

Seeing his pondering, Lady Zera sighed, “Did you know… the burden of the Oracle is based on family?” Zeil looked at her as she continued, “Every other generation in my bloodline holds the power of the oracle. My grandmother held it before me, as did her grandmother before her. And should I have a granddaughter, so too will she hold this power. When I was at the age of ten, I had my very first vision. I saw a landslide crumble my home and warned my mother to the impending danger. Luckily my vision only saw my home destroyed, and no others hurt, so we all managed to evade the disaster, and so marked the day I officially became the oracle. Then forth, zebra from all tribes of Zebrica would travel to see me, in hopes that I can answer their most burdening futures. Some wanted to know of love, some, of future accomplishments. But then one came to me with worry. A stallion from Zebabwee, knew of an impending storm that would bring dangerous winds and flooding to his home. So he asked me, what would be the fate of his family. What I saw was concerning, his family would be fine to wait out the rains, but on the day of the storms arrival, I saw him being dragged to the depths by the burdens of his effort. In short, I saw him drown. And in concern for his safety I took it upon myself to warn him, but telling him the truth of his future. As any would in his situation, he chose to pack away his valuables and leave his home with the intent of returning after the storm has passed. And as expected, when the day the storm ravaged his home, he was far from the coast and traveling through the mainland. As he trotted, he came upon a small bridge that crossed a shallow river. But as he crossed, the planks below his hooves gave way and he fell into the water, only to be dragged to the river’s bottom by his hard earned valuables on his back. In only two meters of water far from the coast, the stallion met his end, on the day the storm’s winds blew upon his home. Just as I saw, it came to be.”

With the burden on her mind, Lady Zera looked down in sadness, as Zeil thought deeply about what he had heard. As he thought, Zera spoke, “I often wondered, if I had said nothing, would he had lived through the storm. But then, would I have seen anything, if I didn’t? To be the oracle is a burdensome curse, but… it is one that I must bear, and one that I must be cautious in its use. Sometimes, silence of one’s fate, is the best option, even if the fate is of misfortune.”
Zeil held his silence as lady Zera lost her motivation to stay, “You need your rest, for now do so… you have been through a lot.”
As she started to leave, Zeil stopped her, “Wait… first… tell me about what happened. What happened on the battlefield?”
Before Zera could reply, Chief Basarum entered the hut as he answered, “The battle if you can call it that, ended with only two casualties. Kante was killed fighting Chief Muji, and Chief Muji was killed by you.”
Zeil’s expression became surprised as Zera saw this and spoke, “So… you truly don’t remember what happened.”

Zeil placed his hoof on his head, “No… but… that means that my vow…”
Chief Basarum seemed less then concerned as he replied, “Your vow is still your own… Technically you didn’t kill him. But that remains to be seen.” He looked to Zera, “Chief Chuma and Chief Tanak have returned to their tribes. However, Chieftess Mimea Strongly suggests we stay till she can speak with Zeil.”
Zeil was confused, “Stay… you mean… this is the Western Tribes?”
As Zeil realized this, he started to notice that there was more humidity here then at the Northern Tribes which only let him to assume that they were in or near a rainforest or jungle as Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes, the western enchanters are best with medicine so we brought you here t-”
all of a sudden a commotion was heard outside the hut as a number of voices called out in anger. Although the voices were in too many numbers to hear clearly, it was obvious by the aura that Zeil felt that the voices came from many zebra who were all gathered in a fit of aggravation. Concerned, Chief Basarum trotted outside as Zera spoke to Zeil before following, “Stay here and rest.”
Outside a line of western tribal warriors stood with their spears ready as a group of unarmed Southern Tribe stallion stood in front of them, each speaking in anger as one spoke, “Stop protecting him! You know you would have been next if the chief’s didn’t step in.” another spoke, “Bring him out, he must answer for his crime!” then another, “If you protect him then you too are guilty!”

As the angry zebra protested, Chief Basarum and Lady Zera exited the hut as the chief tried to call over the herd, “Calm yourselves! This is a matter that must be settled with calm minds!”
The chief’s words did little as many continued to call in anger, “He’s a murderer!” “The Chief must be avenged!” “A life for a life!” “The mage has no privilege over our laws!”
one of the dominant members of the protest stepped forward as he started to speak, “IF YOU IGNORE HIS CRIME THEN YOU TOO WILL SER-“
all of a sudden, the zebra who was speaking as well as the rest of the protesting tribe silenced themselves as the lead stallions expression turned from anger to surprise as he took as step back and stared in worry. With the strange change from yelling to silence confusing the chief, Chief Basarum hesitated for a second before turning back to the hut’s entrance as he saw, Zeil exiting the hut behind him in his zebra form. Though he felt weak and pain ridden, Zeil perfectly hid his condition as he stepped out of the hut with a dominant stance and an expressionless gaze that caused all within proximity to feel unease.

The leader of the riot wanted to continue protesting, but as he starred into the eyes of the future mage, he couldn’t bring himself to say a single word as the area felt tense with awkward silence. Finally the silence ended as another voice spoke up, “Enough of this!!!”
At that moment another Southern Tribe stallion entered the area with a few following warriors as he spoke, I told you this matter needed to be dropped, so stop this now and return to the tribe!”
The lead spoke again, “Chief Shaka, you of all should agree. Chief Muji was murdered in cold blood. The mage must speak for his death.”
Zeil was surprised, “Chief?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “That’s right you’ve been asleep for a few days. Mage Zeil, this is Chief Shaka. He was the lead Warrior of the Southern Tribe but now he is the newly appointed Chief.”

Chief Shaka spoke, “Chief Muji was unwell. His actions against the Northern Tribe were unjustified to begin with, therefor he, his duel, and even his death will not be validated due to his defilement of tribal law.”
The stallion argued, “Chief Muji was a chief! His death was deliberate and subject to response!”
Chief Basarum held his head high as he replied with authority, “Chief Muji was a brother and a friend to me when we were young. His actions to infiltrate and attack my tribe were traitorous, and to challenge the mage, a brother to the Northern Tribe to a duel was one more scare on his memory as a noble chief. He was given many chances to be spared, and yet he proceeded to fight a meaningless fight. For that, I hate to say, he died a meaningless death. He will be missed as a friend from long ago, but his final memory to us will not be a pleasant one.”
Zeil was surprised, this was the first time he had actually been called a brother to the Northern Tribe by Chief Basarum, but disregarding that, he looked to the Southern Tribe zebra as he spoke, “I cannot admit that my actions were without my control. But what I can say is that even before losing myself to darkness, I did all that I could to spare him, and since he turned it down, he was willing to accept the consequences of his actions.”

The leader of the mob replied, “You murdered our chief in cold blood!!!”
“AND OUR CHIEF MURDERED MAXIMUS!!!”
Shocked, every zebra in the area looked to Chief Shaka as the angry chief continued, “I was there, I helped build that dam to stop the river from feeding into the Northern Tribe. I helped relay messages from Maximus to Chief Muji over the Northern Tribes and their defense secrets. And yes I stood by and watched as Chief Muji gave the order to kill Maximus right in front of us, only to hide his own guilt even after he was so plainly discovered by the mage. If I am to stand trial for my actions then I will accept responsibility and pay the price for my crimes. But don’t think for a second that what happened to Maximus was a fault of any other then Chief Muji himself. If the chief was so willing to throw one so loyal to the slaughter to save his own pride, then what would he do to any others who even questioned him? All of us are at fault for his actions. Not Maximus, not the Northern Tribe, and certainly not the Mage. If Chief Basarum is to shun us forever, then he is well within his right to do so. What happens next, is entirely of the chief, and the mage’s decision. If we are still an imbalance that must be fixed, then they must do so. But if they are willing to forgive us and allow us a chance to repent. Then I would be grateful that mercy could be shown after all we did.” He looked to Chief Basarum and bowed his head slightly, “Chief we are at your decision, for our crimes of carrying out the words of one who is unwell, what is your verdict?”

Chief Basarum spoke with little concern, “What’s done is done and I'm willing to let it be as it is. Mage Zeil? Do you agree? Or do you feel that balance is still shifted?”
Zeil nodded, “Chief Muji was a pain, but since he is gone, I think it will be better if we just let this go and move on. I would rather see Zebrica at peace then to see it at war.”
Chief Shaka smiled, “Then… let us continue at peace.”
The leading stallion continued to argue, “Peace? PEACE? Easy to say when y-”
“This matter is settled here and now!”
As that was said, Chieftess Memia and a large collection of Western warriors entered the area as the Chieftess spoke, “You heard your chief, this matter is settled and will stop this instant… If you insist on challenging Mage Zeil to a fight, then as a guest to my tribe I and my warriors will have to get involved and protect him. Though, I would fear that he wouldn’t need it. After all, it did take the effort of three tribal chiefs to defeat him the first time… I would hate to see what wouldn’t happen, should he face you, with uson his side this time.”

The stallion hesitated at the thought before looking to his new chief as he replied, “The tribe won't stand for this.”
Chief Shaka replied, “They will get over it… I will not be the fool who picks a fight with the Mage of Zebrica.”
With nothing more to say the stallion and his mob of angry zebra turned and left the area as Zeil looked to the new Chief, “Chief Shaka was it? I want to thank you for defending me.”
The chief looked to Zeil and nodded, “You are welcome Mage Zeil, but I would advise you stay away from the Southern Tribe for a while, there are many who would disagree with me for the time being. And even more who are too terrified to say so.”
Zeil nodded, “I understand, I hope you know that the one who killed Chief Muji, wasn’t the real me.”
The chief nodded as he turned to completely face Zeil, “I don’t understand, but… I won't disagree with the Mage of Zebrica, I for one respect your title.” He looked at one of his guards, “Bring it forth”

One of the guards brought a cloth wrapped object forward as the chief took the cloth and held it out to Zeil, “However informal this is, let it be known that I Chief Shaka of the Southern Tribe recognize and accept you Mage Zeil, as the true Mage of Zebrica.” He opened the cloth to reveal a very small dashiki made of black, white, and grey bones and claws, “When you and Chief Muji faced each other in combat, you showed acceptable strategy and skill in every action in hope of forcing him to surrender so that the Southern Tribe would not lose its chief. And though his ignorance still led to his death your attempt was still recognized.”
Chief Shaka trotted around Zeil and placed the dashiki around his neck as he spoke, “For this, I will present you with this dashiki of the Southern Tribe. Wear it with pride as proof that we will always accept you as our next Mage of Zebrica.” After it was secured, Chief Shaka stepped back as he adjusted the neckwear until it was centered then smiled, “Wear it with honor Mage Zeil, and may good fortune smile upon you, and your power.”

With that said, Chief Shaka bowed slightly to Zeil before turning away and leaving the area as his personal guards turned and followed him out of the area. As Chief Shaka left, Chieftess Mimea approached as she spoke, Recognized by three in one day… I would have assumed it would take a while considering the fear you pressed into their hearts.”
Zeil nodded, “If only I knew what I had done, then I could bet- Wait… did you say three?”
Chieftess Mimea looked to Chief Basarum, “You didn’t tell him?”
Zeil looked to Chief Basarum as he sighed before reaching into his saddlebag, “I wanted to wait till he was rested, but now is as good a time as any.” He pulled out a dagger, “Zeil, Chief Chuma brought this to you yesterday in hopes of presenting it to you. Just as the dashiki was presented for the Southern Chief’s acceptance, Chief Chuma presents you with this in acceptance from the Eastern Tribe. He mentioned that you were recognized for your ability to use your spear and hooves in perfect combination of adaptation that is always respected of the Easter Tribe. So, this is now yours, and yyou are forever recognized as the Mage of Zebrica to the Eastern Tribe.”

Zeil took the dagger and examined the blade as he immediately recognize it, “Wait… this is the same dagger the mage had… I mean, the mage that I met in the Wooden Pergola Forest.”
Chieftess Mimea nodded as she two held out an artifact. This one was a ring that was cut to resemble a C shape as she spoke, “Now for me… For the record, I had accepted you from the very start Mage Zeil. From the moment I laid eyes on you before the assembly, I could sense your magic and purpose. That you were to become the next Mage of Zebrica.”
The Chieftess held out the ring to Zeil as he smiled and started to take it, “Thank you chieftess, I'm happy t-“
“But now I'm not so sure…”
Surprised, Zeil silenced himself as the chieftess withdrew the ring and held it back as she gave him a stern look, “You allowed the darkness to consume and control you. You let your emotions get the better of you and surrendered yourself so easily to your darker side. I defended you from the Southern Tribe this once, but should it happen again, then I will leave you to the wolves.”

Zeil was surprised by her change in tone, usually she was always so peaceful and supportive, but seeing this side of her actually made him worried that she was more threatening then he originally assumed. Seeing this Chief Basarum started to speak, “I think your being a little hard on h-“
Her anger turned to him, “You’re not out of the fire either, Enchanter Of Light… is it not your task to teach Mage Zeil what he must understand about keeping hold of his lighter side? Exactly what have you taught him thus far? What is the progress of the Mage of Zebrica?”
Chief Basarum replied, “He learned to conceal his magic and pick a Blood Rose. He can see when balance shifts and has already met Somnambula in Duet. And he also knows his mage ability and is learning to control it. Right now, all he needs is to read the first page of the tome, then complete the spell. Then he will be ready to face my final trial and his.”
She nodded, “I see… then let me ask one thing.” She looked to Zeil, “Mage Zeil… I was told that you made a vow… and now it is broken. Tell me… what will you do now that you broke such a vow.”
Realizing it, Zeil started thinking to himself as the Chieftess noticed his silence and continued, “Why make such a vow in the first place… what did you want to accomplish by refraining from killing?”

Zeil hesitated before replying, “I… I don’t want to hurt others anymore. I made this vow, because… I feel like… if… if I hurt others, then Zecora would be unhappy. Unhappy that, others had to die for me to get back to her.”
She shook her head, “I don’t think that is true. I think that killing others reminds you of something you dislike about yourself. If I were to guess, it reminds you of a time before you met Zecora. A time when killing was common.”
Though he didn’t realize it before Zeil couldn’t help but feel like her words were true as Chief Basarum replied, “Perhaps… it reminds you of when you were more of a changeling. When you followed your queen and did her bidding.”
Zeil could only pause in realization as Chieftess Mimea understood his silence and spoke, “I suppose even you don’t understand this as much as you thought… very well. Until further notice, you are unsafe outside of this tribe. I would advise staying here for a few days until the rest of the tribes calm down. After what happened to Chief Muji, you should understand why they are nervous of you.” she held out the ring to him, “You are welcomed here Mage Zeil, and if needed you can continue your training while you are with us. All I ask is that you be mindful of my tribe zebra, they may feel uneasy for a bit, but they know that if you lose yourself again, that we are the only ones who can restrain your magic.”

Feeling guilty Zeil nodded, “I understand, thank you Chieftess.”
The Western chief nodded with a smile as she Handed Zeil the ring and spoke, “Good, as for this, it’s a token to all Western enchanters. Wear it on your dominant arm to show all that you hold in your hoof, the power to make a difference. And of course, that you are forever recognized as the Mage of Zebrica by the Western Tribe.”
Zeil took the ring and ran his right arm through it till it tightened and held its place on his bicep. With the symbol of honor secured on his right forearm, Zeil smiled, “Thank you Chieftess, I will wear it with honor.”
Chieftess Mimea smiled as she looked to Chief Basarum and spoke, “Teach him well… But, don’t disappoint me…”
Feeling odd that she scolded him, Chief Basarum gave Chieftess Mimea a confused look as the chief trotted away with her warriors following. After the western chief was gone Chief Basarum spoke, “Wait… why did I get in trouble?”
Lady Zera smiled, “Because she has faith in you.”

As Zeil thought about the Chieftess’s words he couldn’t help but feel confused, “Chief Basarum… you are the Enchanter of Light… but… now that I think about it. You really haven’t taught me much magic at all.”
Lady Zera smiled, “That’s because he isn’t supposed to teach you magic. In fact, my husband knows no real magic to begin with aside from meditation, and a few self-defense spells.”
Zeil looked to Chief Basarum in surprise, “But… you were Zecora’s teacher.”
The chief nodded, “I was, I taught her to sense magic and to hide her own. I didn’t teach her anymore then what she taught you. Her magic teacher was actually of this tribe… but…”
Lady Zera continued, “She passed last year. The Western Tribes were blighted with a plague and she was amongst the victims. It affected the elderly much worse than the rest.”

Chief Basarum nodded, “She was a wise enchantress. But she too had more to teach to Zecora before she left.”
Lady Zera spoke, “Zecora found her way… we cannot hold a grudge for her own decision.”
Chief Basarum sighed with a slightly angry tone, “Speak for yourself.”
Zeil couldn’t help but feel confused at Chief Basarum’s anger as Lady Zera saw this and spoke, “Do not take offense Mage Zeil. We all have our defects. With me… it’s my curse of seeing the guaranteed future, with my husband, it’s the disappointment of losing his best student.”
Zeil nodded, “I see… and losing your daughter probably threw salt on that wound also right?”
Lady Zera smiled, “I see you understand… but I have been thinking of what the Chieftess mentioned. She said something about the true reason for you vow… tell me… do you resent your changeling race?”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
She continued, “She mentioned that killing reminds you of your changeling life before Zecora… is this true?”

Zeil sighed with preparation for his response as he replied, “Have you ever taken a life?”
Zera shook her head, “No.”
Chief Basarum replied with little enthusiasm, “I have but not without reason.”
Zeil nodded as he continued, “Before Zecora, before I renounced my queen and my swarm. I’ve taken many lives. And through them all, I did it without hesitation, pity, or even enough concern to remember their names. But after I met Zecora, after she showed me the value of life by saving my own, after she showed me the magic around us in all living things. I understood what I did to those poor souls. And that was after recently taking the life of a royal guard in Canterlot. Since then, I remember everything about him. He was a Corporal name Stan. He wasn’t too high in rank and he had no family to speak of so it was easy taking his place to infiltrate the castle. The way I did it, was by luring him into an ally acting as a mare in distress… he… only wanted to help out of the goodness of his heart. But I didn’t care. I killed him disguised myself as him and took his place in the kingdom. Now that I understand how heartless that makes me look, I feel nothing but disgust for who I was. And I can only assume if Zecora saw me like that… then she would feel the same way I do. She would be ashamed to even know me.”

Lady Zera nodded as she replied, “So… that’s why you take the form of a zebra… your ashamed of your changeling self.”
Zeil nodded as Chief Basarum replied, “I see… so the vow was an attempt to change how you see yourself.”
Zeil looked at his zebra form hoof as he replied, “If I look at my changeling form, even my reformed self, I only see a murderer. A parasite that feeds on love like a gluten leaving none to spare. Following the orders of a queen like a mindless drone. And hurting all I cross in my wake.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “It’s a good thing that you’re anything but. Even if you killed Chief Muji, you did so while showing as much mercy as you could. You tried to spare him and even killed him for the good of all of Zebrica. You are anything but a mindless drone, you are the Mage of Zebrica. And I Chief Basarum of the North Recognize you. It goes without saying, but the Northern Tribe now respect you more than ever. You saved us, and I know without a doubt, Zecora would feel the same. We cannot decide how we respond when fate throws obstacles in our way. But how we respond can always be seen as the response from a sinner, or a saint. I for one am happy to see you in this light, Vow or not.” He turned to leave, “Take this win, and rest easy. The tribes will be unsure for a while, but I think in time they will each understand what had to be done.”

With those as his last bit of advice, Chief Basarum trotted away as Zeil could only watch before speaking to Lady Zera, “How is he so sure?”
Zera replied, “Because he lost a friend. Despite his actions, Chief Muji was a friend of ours. I'll even admit when his passed, I shed a tear for him. I wasn’t happy he was gone, and I did feel a sense of relief. But as I think about it. I remember when we all knew each other very well. I knew a time were we could laugh together, and feel no worry for the future. And though he shouldn’t show it. My husband is far more emotional in this subject then I. I shed a tear, he wept. We won't blame you for what happened nor will admit it was the best choice. But what you did, you did in the interest of helping the Northern Tribe. So you have our thanks. But… you’re training isn’t over. The purpose of the Enchanter of light is to remind you of your light side, while learning to harness your darkness. Now that you know what your darkness is capable of, know that you must learn to control it. Take this lesson and move forward. As we all must.”
Lady Zera started to leave as Zeil stopped her, “I can't do that so easily, Kante, my vow… how can I carry on knowing that this darkness can overtake me so easily?”

Zera nodded as she smiled, “Kante has fallen, but she fell as a warrior and will be remembered as such. Your vow is broken, but one can argue that it wasn’t you who broke it. and as for your darkness, it only took hold when you lost the will to continue. Remember the darkness is within you but you yourself are the light. You hold more control, and as long as you do, you will never have to see yourself as that changeling you used to be. Zecora believes in you, I know she does, as do I.” She started to trot away, “May good fortune smile upon you Mage Zeil… and your burden.”
With those words as her last, Lady Zera trotted away as Zeil now stood alone outside the medical hut as he took the time to look around at his surroundings with her words circling in his mind. Looking at the surroundings of a village in the Zebrican jungle, Zeil slowly looked to his zebra hoof before changing it into his changeling form as he mumbled, “My burden… is she talking about this… or the Mage.”

Bk12/Ch1 The Final Trial

Book 12/Chapter 1
There Final Trials
(Year 6, Month 06, Day 16)

The herd of zebra and water buffalo cheered in excitement as they sat on the stands along the side of the Kiwinda Field. As they cheered, Chief Basarum and Chief Tanak sat in the observation tower as Chief Basarum smiled, “Well this is it… one more round and the winner takes all. I’d say you may have this one just like last year, but then again… I have confidence we can take this one from you.”
Chief Tanak smiled, “Perhaps… granted he follows the rules.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “He knows the rules and wouldn’t dare disrespect us by using magic in the final round.”
Chief Tanak nodded, “Good to know but I think magic is the least of his abilities, I'm curious of how he fairs against my water buffalo in skill and strategy.”
At that moment, one of the announcing giraffe called over the area, “Zebra, Buffalo, and all in between! We will now begin the final round of the second run! With the Hunters leading five to four, this will be the last chance for the Prey to tie up the game and bring us into a third day of the Kiwinda!”
The other giraffe added, “Or will the hunters make this round the last of this year’s Kiwinda by taking the point and winning the game! We shall see!”

The first announcing giraffe paused as the spectators cheered for a few seconds before continuing, “Now let the final round begin.”
As soon as that was called, the hut at the front of the Kiwinda grounds opened as a very large and powerful water buffalo exited the hut and trotted onto the field. Seeing the massive creature, Chief Tanak smiled, “Looks like they brought out Tiny for this run. Saving the toughest for last. This should prove interesting since your student has also yet to reveal himself for this run.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes, and against a behemoth such as that, this will be a good challenge for him.”
As Tiny trotted out onto the field, he took a few seconds to pace along the exit to the hut as he observed the entirety of the field and carefully plot his course. Once he picked his path, the large water buffalo slowly made his way down the field as he cautiously trotted towards the finish. As he proceeded, it wasn’t long before a trapdoor popped open as a zebra warrior jumped out and lunged his plushy tipped spear with red chalk towards the buffalo who not only was able to dodge the attack, but he was also able to grab the shaft of the competition weapon and pick up the wielding zebra before tossing him over his head and slamming the smaller warrior on the ground as the impact alone was able to knock him unconscious.

With a little worry, Tiny checked the wounded zebra and felt relieved when he discovered that the warrior was only unconscious. When tiny looked up and back down the field however he and the observing spectators could only stare in surprise as Zeil opened and climbed out of the final trapdoor at the end of the run while wearing his now signature Southern Tribe dashiki and the Western Tribe ring on his arm. As Zeil readied his competition spear, Chief Tanak smiled, “Impressive, kind of bold to take Tiny on face to face. He must have a plan that can conquer kingdoms.”
Chief Basarum sighed, “Or he’s just winging it… let’s hope he doesn’t get himself killed in the process. If he took what I taught him to heart… he might not… might…”
The buffalo chief smiled, “You doubt him?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “You can lead a changeling to the stream and show him the proper way to drink, but that doesn’t mean he won't drown in the process.”

On the field, Tiny decided to call the bluff as he braced himself to charge while showing his intentions by scraping the ground with his dominant front hoof. Zeil showed no concern in the threat as Tiny proceeded to charge towards Zeil at full ramming speed. Seeing this Zeil smiled as he too began charging towards his opponent with no sign of worry in his decision. As the two rivals charged one another, Zeil readied and threw his pillow tipped spear as Tiny shifted his run slightly as the red chalk coated weapon grazed his shoulder leaving a thin line across his skin as one of the announcing giraffe called, “Wounding glance! No point!”
Since he already knew the graze wasn’t a kill, Tiny continued his charge as he smile while expecting Zeil to change his direction to avoid a collision. However, Zeil made no such attempt as he continued charging towards the large water buffalo with full intention of a head on collision. As the two neared each other, both charging creatures made no change in their actions as Tiny angled his head inward before flinging it upward and bashing his forehead against Zeil’s chest as the powerful water buffalo tossed Zeil aside like a ragdoll.

As Zeil flew almost ten feet from where he was hit, many to include both chiefs stood from their seats in worry as the airborne changeling hit the ground and rolled a number of feet to a sliding stop. With Zeil now lying motionless in his wake, nothing was left to make any attempt to stop the powerful water buffalo as Tiny crossed this finish on the end of the field before sliding to his own stop. Looking back to Zeil, Tiny smiled at his accomplishment until his smile faded as the announcer called, “Killing blow, Point hunters!”
Confused, Tiny looked to the announcers for a second till he started to feel a faint feeling on his neck as he rubbed his hoof along the side of his throat to find that there was a line of chalk along his neck in vital parts. After finding the chalk Tiny looked to Zeil as the stunned changeling struggled to pick himself up while revealing a broken spear blade in his hoof with the pillow like blade held like a dagger.

Surprised and relieved, Chief Basarum slumped back in his seat as Chief Tanak spoke with excitement, “NOW THAT WAS A RUN!!! Hiding that dagger on him like he did and using the split second from the impact to run the blade across his throat… Genius, pure genius… that is one heck of a student you trained Basarum. A few more like him and this victory in the Kiwinda will remain permanent. I’ve never seen a hunter so bold as to risk himself like that.”
Chief Basarum sighed in relief, “I for one would think the line between boldness and stupidity seems very faded in this instant… but I will admit, aside from the near heart attack, Mage Zeil proved to be quite the hunter. Kante would be proud to call him her teacher.”
Chief Tanak smiled, “Or brother.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes… or brother.”
As that was said, Lady Zera reached the top of the tower stairs as Chief Tanak saw her and spoke, “Oh lady Zera, I didn’t expect to see you here. I hate to say it though, but you’re too late. The last run of the Kiwinda is over and it would seem that the hunters have taken victory this year.

Lady Zera smiled as she replied, “Sports don’t entertain me much, it’s difficult to enjoy it when you know who is going to win beforehand. But I digress… that is not why I'm here.”
Chief Basarum replied, “Oh? Then why did you come?”
Zera gave him a serious look as she replied, “Its time…”
“Time?”
She nodded, “A teacher must bid farewell to his student, and pass him on for his final trial, for darkness awaits a darkened fate.”
Chief Tanak asked, “You mean Mage Zeil must move on for his final trial… but, has he not finished his training?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “No… but all that remains from me, is the first spell of the tome and the test to follow.”
Lady Zera nodded as she pulled the tome from under her cloak and held it out, “I know… and now he can. The tome now recognizes him. So… its time.”

Back on the Kiwinda field, all spectators and participant stormed the field in celebration of the victory as Zeil struggled to approach Tiny, “That was a good run, any harder and I think you would have killed me with that hit.”
Tiny smiled, “I agree, and you with your hidden weapon. I never expected such a strategy, you truly are skilled Mage Zeil, would hesitate to face you were this a real hunt.”
Zeil held out his hoof, “As would I, though I'm grateful that should never happen. Either way, Good game.”
The mighty water buffalo smiled as he hoof bumped Zeil and replied, “And good victory, it’s well earned.”
the two smiled at one another’s sportsmanship as both Chief Tanak and Chief Basarum approached with Chief Tanak slamming his hoof against Zeil’s back knocking the changeling to the ground as he smiled, “Congratulations Mage Zeil, that wa- oh… sorry… I see you’re still wounded from your last run.”
Although Zeil was knocked to the ground, he still understood it was an accident as he struggled to pick himself back up as he replied, “No worries… just a few broken bones and some possible internal bleeding… nothing I can't trot off.”

Smiling at the joke, Chief Basarum spoke, “Well I suppose reckless acts befall reckless results. Sometimes pain is the best teacher.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I'll take that lesson to heart… let’s just hope I won't have to do it again in the next Kiwinda.”
Chief Basarum shook his head as his expression became serious, “That’s the thing… there won't be a next one… not for you at least.”
As that was said, Chief Basarum held out the Tome of the Mage as Zeil looked at it and spoke, “You want me to try to read it again? Didn’t we try that three days ago?”
Chief Basarum replied, “Lady Zera saw something… I would assume, your results will differ this time.”
With all the commotion of the spectators and participants congratulating each other around them, Zeil nodded, “Alright… but let’s take this elsewhere. You know… somewhere more discrete.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I couldn’t agree more.” He looked to Chief Tanak, “I hope you will excuse me and my student, but we won't be attending the after party. You understand.”
Chief Tanak smiled, “Of course, Mage business and all. I and the other chiefs will expect a report should it improve.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Yes, should it improve you will be notified.”

That said, Chief Basarum and Zeil left the area as they traveled into the northern tribe village, entered the main temple in the center and sealed themselves in the chief’s assembly room. In there, Chief Basarum laid the tome on the table as he spoke, “Now… turn to the first spell and see if you can read the text. Should it accept you… the text will become legible.”
Nodding, Zeil sat at the table as he flipped through the pages till he reached the first spell. As usual the page was filled with an assortment of circles, lines, and strange characters all of a language that barley looked legible let alone readable. But as he looked at the text, the symbol all started rearranging themselves and merging together to create text that he could read as Zeil spoke, “Looks like… I understand it this time…”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Good… now tell me the title, the spell type, and nothing more.”
Zeil looked at the title as he spoke, “It says… Light Entrapment… looks to be a combination potion and incantation spell. Seems… somewhat simple to make. The ingredients are all pretty standard.”

Chief Basarum smiled, “Perfect… then you are ready for your final test… well… from me anyways.”
Zeil was surprised, “Really?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes… You have until noon tomorrow to make ready this spell. Then you will bring it to me in the outskirts of the village where blood roses meet the riverbed. Once we do that, I can grade the potion and we can test it… and you.”
“Wait… what do you mean by test it and me?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “Never mind that… can you do it?”
Zeil glanced over the potions preparation as he nodded, “Yea… seems simple enough, I could have it before the end of today if I start now.”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “No need, just have it ready tomorrow. I’d rather you be rested after the Kiwinda. So just finish it quickly and relax. Inform my warriors of any ingredient you may need, and I'll see to it that they retrieve them for you… by the way… look at the last page… can you read what’s written?”

Zeil flipped the tome to the final page as he saw a number of the same strange symbols. As he looked through the page none of the symbols rearranged each other to become legible as he replied, “No… I can't.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself, “Hmm… I guess you won't be able to till after the spell.”
Zeil was confused, “What do you mean?”
Chief Basarum replied, “That page holds the names of every mage that came before you. Once one completes the first spell of the book, text will bleed into the page and add your name to the list. The last name there is Mage Magi, while the first name there is Mage Seraphim.”
Zeil was curious, “Oh, was he the first mage?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “Actually… he was the second mage. See the second mage is the one who created the Tome of the Mage. His ability was to control inks and dyes. And with that, he created many spell books, as well as the tome you see before you. In fact the reason the text rearranges itself is because the magic within the tome is still under his control or so the stories claim. As for the first mage, his name is lost to time.”

Zeil looked at the book as he smiled, “Oh… that’s kind of interesting.”
Chief Basarum nodded his head, “After the final trial this page and the rest will become completely clear to you. And from there it will be time for you to start your last trial.”
Zeil nodded, “So, Mage Phalla controlled stone, Mage Magi could make his flesh harder, and Mage Seraphim could control ink and dyes… but… what about the first mage?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “Complete this spell… and you will find out… remember. Noon tomorrow, I will be waiting.”
With nothing more to say, Chief Basarum left the room as Zeil looked at the list of ingredient on the page as he smiled, “Alright then… let’s get started… maybe Lady Zera will let me borrow her cauldron for a few hours… provided I explain why I can't tell her what I'm making.”

The rest of the day seemed to pass by quickly, Zeil managed to gather the ingredients he needed and then proceeded to create the spell’s potion without any difficulty. Although as he followed the instructions perfectly, the tome only revealed its preparation and how to cast it. At no point in any of the symbols on the rest of the page did the tome reveal what the spell would do, or what effect the potion would have on the user or its surrounding observers. All he knew, was that its effects would take hold of all who saw its casting. Either way, the potion was eventually finished as it revealed itself to be a black and somewhat milky potion that seems to be so deep in color that it felt like looking into an endless pit of darkness.

The next morning, Zeil collected the potion into a small glass flask and took it with him as he made his way to the outskirts of the Northern Tribe’s lands where he did see a riverbed and a large patch of blood roses with a large grassy field on the other side of the river. As he arrived at the secluded area, he saw both Chief Basarum and Lady Zera waiting for him as Zera smiled, “So he arrived, then I must take my leave.” She kissed her husband then patted his cheek, “Try not to kill him.”
Chief Basarum smiled and nodded as Lady Zera started to trot passed Zeil before speaking, “I'll have a saddlebag ready. Good luck Mage Zeil.”
Zeil could only give Zera a confused look as she smiled and left the area with no explanation to her words. Before Zeil could ask however, Chief Basarum spoke, “So… did you bring it?”
Zeil nodded as he approached the chief and held out the flask, “I did, it was simple enough but the tome wouldn’t say what it would do.”
Chief Basarum took the flask from him and backed away slightly before looking into the potion and speaking, “Interesting… I almost forgot how dark and deep this color was… like looking into a dark cave with no sign of its depth or end.”

Confused, that Chief Basarum backed away by a few paces, Zeil started to notice a few other things, such as a staff that sat on the ground next to where the chief backed away to, but before he could bring attention to it, the chief spoke again, “You mentioned yesterday that there was an incantation to the spell right?... do you remember what it was?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, the incantation was; Lux Conssumet. Strange… maybe some language that was lost to time or something?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “It’s been a long time since I heard those words… and they make just as little since as they did then. But they do ring true.” He sat the flask on the ground at his hooves as he spoke with a serious and clear tone, “Lux Conssumet!”

Just as that was said, Chief Basarum stomped down on the flask as the glass container shattered beneath his hoof. Just as that was done, something completely unworldly took place. Everything within view to include Chief Basarum, the surrounding setting, and even the sky seemed to be swallowed up by the flask as everything within Zeil’s sight immediately flew towards the shattering flask and vanished as all he could see around him was pitch black darkness. As this happened, felt completely confused and in a way afraid as he looked around, “What? What happened? Where am?”
As that was said, Chief Basarum’s voice seemed to echo from all directions as it spoke, “Tell me what you see?”
Zeil was confused as he continued looking around, “Chief? But… where are you? What’s happening.. I can't see anything.” He tried to look at his own hooves, “I can't even see myself… am… am I blind?”
Chief Basarum replied as Zeil could only imagine him nodded, “In a sense, yes… This potion absorbs the light surrounding everyone who sees its casting and prevents it from reaching your eyes along with that it distorts what you hear, so your ears can't direct you towards any outside sounds. Meaning… you and all who saw this spell being cast, are now blind. The term Lux Conssumet actually means Light consume, so it’s pretty straight forward.”

Zeil nodded as he understood, “Okay… so it’s a blinding spell. Makes sense… so… when will it wear off?”
Chief Basarum replied, “That’s just it… this potion… is permanent. If I wanted to, I could trot away right now, and you would be blind for the rest of your life… however there is a way to brake this curse.”
Zeil looked around, “Okay… I'm listening.”
Chief Basarum replied, “You have to make contact with me.”
Zeil nodded, “Make Contact… as in, I need to touch you to break this spell?”
“Yes… once your skin makes contact with the caster, your sight will return and all will be as it was.”
Zeil held out his hoof, “Alright, so take my hoof and we can be done with this.”
All of a sudden, Zeil felt a strike against his hoof that hurt him as he withdrew his limb as Chief Basarum chuckled, “It’s not that easy… don’t you remember? This is a test… your final test from me. All you have to do… is touch me and regain your sight. Or better yet… strike me.”

Zeil rubbed his hoof as he spoke, “Strike you? You mean you want me to fight you blind?”
Chief Basarum replied, “Yes… the Mage of Zebrica often treads the line between light and dark. So he must know how to defend himself within both light… and dark. If you can land a single blow against me and regain your sight, then you pass my trial. Otherwise, I'll have no choice but to leave you here blind to the world.”
Zeil objected, “You’re kidding right? You’re the chief of the Northern tribes. The warrior who took me down when I turned into a titan with a single swing, how am I supposed to beat you blind?”
Chief Basarum replied, “That is what you must figure out. Remember the purpose of my lessons. I have been teaching you to remember the qualities that you as Zeil hold, not the mage, but you in general. So… us that… and face me.”

Zeil replied, “So… this is a fight right? So if you hit me, you break the spell on your own.”
All of a sudden Zeil felt two strikes, one on the back of his front knee that caused him to bow down, then a second against the side of his face as the second impact knocked him to the ground. Unable to see his own hooves or the ground beneath him, Zeil struggled to pick himself up as he wiped away what he assumed was blood rolling down his chin as the chief replied, “It would, but then again I'm using a staff so my skin won't make contact… and it will hurt all the more.”
Even though his eyes didn’t work, that didn’t stop Zeil from panning his head around as he spoke, “Okay… so how am I supposed to win then. I can't see you, and your voice seems to be echoing from everywhere at once.”
Chief Basarum replied, “You already hold many advantaged… some that no other mage held before you. Focus on what they are, and ready yourself.”

After hearing this, Zeil immediately assumed his changeling senses would help, but as he started focusing on Chief Basarum’s aura, this only showed Zeil where he was, it didn’t show his stance, or movements. Sensing the chief was approaching from his right, Zeil looked in that direction and raised his hoof to block what he assumed would be a diagonal strike. However, the incoming attack didn’t come from the top right of his head like he assumed, instead it came in from the mid left as a horizontal swing slammed against Zeil’s unprotected face. Though this attack didn’t knock him to the ground, it still caused him to stumble back as chief Basarum spoke, “You can tell where I'm coming from… but your focusing on what you can do, not what you’ve learned. Think for a second… every mage before you had only one teacher… but if you remember clearly… you had more… many more. Remember their lessons, remember what you learned. Combine it all, focus, and above all, remind yourself who you are.”
Hearing this, Zeil realized what Basarum was saying. It’s true that all mages were trained by the enchanter of light, but summing it all up Zeil had many teachers. The Ibex master, the druid Cunningham, King Mathias, even Zecora. Many have taught him what he knows and even though most revolved around magic, they each held their own senses of the same subject.

Focusing Zeil started to think of Zecora’s and the Ibex Master’s lessons first as he closed his eyes and started focusing on both his changing abilities, and a state of peace as he started feeling the ground beneath him and was able to detect faint vibrations of where chief Basarum was standing as well as his hoof movement. Feeling them approach quickly, Zeil was able to sense an incoming attack as he quickly ducked under a horizontal swing from the staff before countering with a punch of his own. However Chief Basarum saw the attack as he jumped back and dodged the changelings counter entirely. As Chief Basarum gained some distance between him and his student, Zeil started focusing on more of what he learned, next he focused on what King Matias’s lessons next. Focusing on an elemental tactic of sensing airflow, Zeil started to sense movement to a more precise area making him now see the chief’s movements even more, and finally Zeil thought about Cunningham’s lessons as he remembered what ingredients he used in the potion, and started to actually smell some of the strong nectars he used to make the potion, which were still on the bottom of chief Basarum’s hoof, and now on parts of his staff. With the combination of vibration, airflow, aura, and scent surrounding him, Zeil with his eyes closed was able to picture his surroundings much more clear now. So much in fact that he could see chief Basarum approaching with yet another attack, this time from the front with a horizontal swing from the right.

Seeing the attack clearly Zeil raised his right hoof up as the staff was blocked by the outside of his forearm, continuing his action without any hesitation, Zeil wrapped his hoof around the staff locking it in place. With his weapon stopped, Chief Basarum started to jump back again, however before he could, Zeil reached out and placed his left hoof on his teachers shoulders as he smiled, “Got you.”
Slowly, Zeil’s sight returned as he realized he was looking at the serious expression of his teacher as the wise zebra smiled as he spoke, “That was… unexpected… seems, you truly do excel far faster than all the mages before you.”
Zeil smiled, “Well, I did have more than one teacher. Like you said.”
Chief Basarum smiled as he replied, “Good, and now that you finished all the training from me… you can start on your final trial.”
Zeil asked, “Final trial… you mean, the one that killed Mage Magi?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “The very same.”

Zeil braced himself for the answer as he asked, “What is the final trial?”
Chief Basarum hesitated as he gave a somewhat peaceful smiled, then he looked out over the river to the opposite side of the river and held his peaceful expression. Confused by his silence, Zeil looked across the river as he saw a peaceful green grass field that stretched far into the distance and the glistening waves that the grass made as the winds blew along them. As Zeil looked at the sight, he started to feel a sense of peace as Chief Basarum spoke, “Beautiful isn’t it? Sometimes we see something so common and routine, that we often forget to witness its beauty… this was my daughter’s favorite place. It’s only grass I would say, but she always called it the perfect combination of magic, nature, and beauty. The blood roses were the magic, the river, nature, and the field’s beauty. If this were a rainy day, she would have added that the rain means its being renewed… she always had a way of looking at things that… I miss.”

Feeling an emotion of disappointment in his teacher Zeil spoke, “If I may ask… what happened to Zee Zee? I know you don’t talk about how she died, and I'm sure you don’t want to stir bad memories, but I can't help but feel curious.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself then replied, “How she died?...” he smiled, “Ya know… if you complete our final task… I'll tell you.” He looked back to the field, “Your next task will be your last… you must seek out the home of the first mage.”
Zeil nodded, “Okay… where is it?”
The chief smiled, “That’s the trick… no zebra knows, the home of the first mage has only been seen by the Mages of Zebrica. And any who seek it without the tome accepting them, are killed by its guardians.”
Zeil was confused, “Guardians? So… how do I find it?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Through his lessons.”
Zeil sighed in irritation, “Your enjoying these cryptic answers aren’t you?”

Chief Basarum smiled as he nodded, “Just listen to his tale… when a chief has a foal, it’s expected that the oracle of Zebrica will meet and bless the foal with a look into its future. A little less than a thousand years ago, a foal was born to the Western Tribe Chief, so as expected, the oracle sought out the young colt and looked into his future. But when she saw nothing, she felt concern. Chief Rafi, was recently killed, and his son’s passed their position as the Western Chief to another. So to see no future for the new chief was indeed worrisome. Luckily she decided to look into the Chief’s future instead, and when she saw the young colt flourish in life, she felt relieved, that is… until she foresaw a great darkness that would cast across all of Zebrica… a darkness created by the Chief’s own son.”
Chief Basarum looked back to the field as he continued, “Worried, the oracle pleaded with the chief, demanding he execute the foal before his future could come to pass. However, to ask a father to kill his own son isn’t an easy thing to command. That night, rather then doing as he was asked, the chief instead chose to banish himself and his son so that he can raise the colt away from the tribe. But since a tribe must have a chief, his wife instead chose that he would banish her instead so that she could raise the foal in the jungle.”
Zeil understood, “The foal… he is the first mage?”

Chief Basarum nodded as he continued, “Yes, and the young chief was raised in the jungle with his mother. There she taught him magic, how to defend himself, and she even taught him humility, enough in fact to not resent the tribes for their exile. The foal grew to be quite the stallion. But as all live age, all are meant to end. When sickness took the mage’s mother, he felt it was time to venture into the Western tribe to seek out his father. When the chief met his son for the first time in two decades he didn’t welcome him with open arms. The foal grew into the noblest of stallion, Humble, merciful, strong, and respectful… but no matter his good qualities, it couldn’t change our teachings. All zebra banished, are no longer welcomed in any tribes. In fact, if you become banished, it’s forbidden to speak of you, or even acknowledge your very existence, before or after your banishment. To the tribes, you now longer exist, and you never did. So the chief turned him away, and stated that he is no brother nor son to the tribe. And he and his mother, are better forgotten. A harsh statement from ones father, but the mage didn’t take it to heart, instead he honored his father’s words, and returned to his home to live in exile.”
Zeil was surprised, “Surprising, I'll be honest, I would have resented him for it. Probably would have done something worth being banished for.”

Chief Basarum smiled at the response as he continued, “True, but it was not the way of the first mage. But then, about five years following, a heavy drought pledged the land, this drought brought a dust that caused all of Zebrica to spiral out of control. Crops refused to grow, Insects that lived amongst these crops traveled causing the ecosystem to collapse, animals and zebra alike starved to death. Predators hungry from lack of prey sought out villages and cause a six year catastrophe of death and famine. Seeing this, the young mage visited the Western Tribe with a solution. Though he didn’t understand it, his mage ability was to control water to its smallest molecule, he offered to bring the rains back but like before, the chief ignored him entirely and demanded he leave. So taking the matter into his own hooves, the mage sought out the oracle of Zebrica. The old oracle has recently passed, and the new oracle was only managing to control her fortunes. And though she did know of her grandmother’s fortunes, she chose to ignore the warning, and to see to his decision personally. Mainly to bear witness to any good that could leave the humble stallion to a more respectable appearance. She along with the mage made their way out into the nearest ocean when the mage was able to cast a water spout so massive, that the water in the air neutralized the dust, amassed many storm clouds and brought rains to Zebrica. A darkness, which revitalized the very lands. Grateful, the five chiefs of Zebrica graciously thanked the mage, but by tradition, his banishment could not be renounced. However, that didn’t matter to the mage, for he had a vision. His mother had become his spiritual guide, and revealed that he was now the Mage of Zebrica as she was the first enchanter of light, the one to keep his light separate from his darkness. Furthermore, she even told him of the next mage of Zebrica and told him where and when to seek him out.”
Zeil nodded, “And so began the cycle of the mage.”

Chief Basarum nodded then looked to his student, “As time passed, the pieces fell into place, but of them all, only the important portions of the mage are continued. The fact that the tome must choose accept him, which is represented by the oracle in the story, and the banishment, that all mages accept. Which includes you, when all is said and done, you too will be banished from Zebrica.”
Zeil nodded, “That’s fine, my home lies elsewhere anyways.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “So it does.”
Chief Basarum looked to the river, “Follow the river north, till you see it swallowed by the earth and nature. Then, await the time when the earth tried to also swallow the sun. There, the guardians will meet you, then show you the rest of the way… should you be worthy that is. Otherwise they will devour you.”
Zeil felt confused, “River swallowed by the earth? And then swallowing the sun? What does any of that mean?”
Chief Basarum replied, “It doesn’t matter, that was how it was explained to Mage Magi, and so it is all I can tell you. If you are worthy, it will become clear.”
“And so it shall.”

Confused, Chief Basarum and Zeil turned to see Lady Zera approaching with a saddlebag and the tome of the mage as she spoke, “I’ve be been observing the tome and since your name, or what I only can assume is your name appeared on the final page, I'm guessing you passed your trial?”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Yes, in record time too. Took mage Magi three days to finish. So it was entertaining to see him blind for that long.”
Zeil was surprised as Lady Zera handed him his saddlebag, “Since the trial is finished, you now have the option of leaving to finish the final trial.”
Zeil was confused, “Option?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes, you are finished with your training from me, but you aren’t the Mage of Zebrica until you finish your final trial. But the option is yours, you can leave now to finish it, or you can continue training until you think you’re ready. Till then, you are free to do as you please, but… remember once your finish your training you must leave Zebrica.”

Zeil nodded as he took the saddlebag and nodded, “I know… and I'm grateful for your training, but… Zecora is waiting on me, and I can’t leave her waiting any longer.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Then go… and good luck to you on this trial.”
Lady zebra held up the tome, “We will keep hold of this until your return. Though I will certainly miss you until then. All the mages have shown us that the final trial is the most time consuming. Some have reportedly returned after a few years with one taking up to three decades to finish his trial.”
Zeil was surprised, “What? Is the final trial that difficult?”
Chief Basarum shrugged his shoulders, “That’s unknown to us. The fastest mage completed the trial in one year, but Mage Magi, never returned from his. I won't lie, I will be somewhat worried for your safety. In the time you have been here, I have seen things in a new light. I accept you here, and am willing to give other outsiders a chance. Furthermore, I believe in you, if you ever doubt yourself, just remember who you are. Remember what makes you, you.”

Lady Zera nodded, “And it’s that what make you better. It’s the reason you were chosen.”
Zeil smiled as he looked to the river and turned to follow it, “I will, and thank you again. Well time I go.”
The two smiled for a second as Zeil started trotting away. As he left, Lady Zera spoke to her husband, “You think he will be okay?”
Chief Basarum called, “Zeil?” The mage looked to him as he continued, “I said north! That would be the other way!”
Zeil looked the opposite way as he smiled, “Oh sorry, hard to tell directions being noon and all.”
As Zeil changed direction Chief Basarum sighed as he answered his wife, “I assume so… but that doesn’t mean I won't worry about it.”
She smiled, “Looks like he wasn’t the only one who learned from his training. Perhaps, he taught you a thing or two as well. I only hope it was enough.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “I will be fair to all outsiders now, I think I learned enough from our changeling friend.”
She shook her head, “I meant for Zeil… Mage Magi may have been somewhat impatient, but in the end he was a fierce warrior with an ability that could make him almost immortal in a fight. To think that the final trial was dangerous enough to kill him… it’s almost unthinkable.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I agree, whatever waits Zeil in his trial. I only hope he is ready for it.”

Bk12/Ch2 Home of the Banished And Crime of the Titan

Book 12/Chapter 2
Home of the Banished And Crime of the Titan
(Year 6, Month 06, Day 19)

Zeil traveled up the river as the sun hung overhead making the savanna moderately hot. As he pressed on in his second day of travel, the river which was heading north took a turn and started leading east entering a lush jungle allowing Zeil to travel in the shade for once. As he continued, Chief Basarum’s words echoed in his head as he mumbled, “Follow the river north till the earth and nature swallows it… Been over a day now so I got to be close."
As Zeil continued up the river for a little while longer, he soon came to an area where the river seemed to run into a dark and low cave. As Zeil saw the water run into the underwater cave Zeil trotted around the caves entrance to see that the river ended there, while jungle brush grew both on top and behind the cave which spanned as far as he could see into the thicket of vines and trees. As he look passed the end of the river, Zeil mumbled, “Swallowed by the earth and nature… this has to be the place.” He looked up, “the tree canopies are open over the river, so when the sun starts setting it should be visible on the water’s surface making it look like the un is also being swallowed. So… I guess I need to wait here till sunset for the guardian to ari-“

At that moment, Zeil noticed an aura in the jungle around him as he mumbled, “I'm being watched… a feline… leopards?”
Trying to act like he didn’t sense it, Zeil put his saddlebag on the ground, opened it up and took out some food preparing tools as he, mumbled, “Two… right now anyway… and they are… afraid. Enough to not do anything hostile, but… with this much fear… why are they watching me so closely?”
Just as that was said, the two auras started distancing themselves further from Zeil until he could barely sense them as he sighed in relief, “Okay… so whatever they wanted they must have either gotten it or given up. For now, I'll just make me something to eat and rest until sunset.”
Doing just that, Zeil prepared him a meal and took the time to refill his water canteens.

Later, As the sun started setting Zeil was resting next to the falls till he felt something that worried him as he acted like he couldn’t sense them, “They’re back… and they brought friends…” he stood and looked in all directions as he counted, “Three… six… nine… ten, eleven, Twelve… no fifteen? It’s not a single pride… it’s multiple…”
One second later, three of the surrounding leopards stepped out of the brush above the river’s cave as one gave a loud meow which signaled all the others to reveal themselves. As the leopards stepped out of the jungle, Zeil was able to see clearly now that even if he tried, there was no escaping the surrounding predators. As Zeil readied himself for what would obviously be a fight to the death, he paused when one of the surrounding auras seemed familiar as he looked to an empty patch of trees as three more leopards exited the jungle with the center leopard obviously being the leader. As Zeil looked onto the leading predator, he recognized it immediately as the same pride leader that both attacked Kante over a year ago, and who watched him leave the Northern Tribes when he went to see Somnambula in Duet. Not to mention that this one was feeling only a slight bit of caution, as the rest of the surrounding leopards were terrified, despite their growling expressions.

As Zeil stared into the eyes of the predator, Zeil started to realize something as he stopped standing at the ready and spoke respectfully, “You’re the guardian… aren’t you? You aren’t here for a fight… you’re hear to judge me.”
The lead leopard didn’t respond, instead he just stood his ground as the rest of the leopards started hissing in fear. After a few seconds of the obvious threats, the lead leopards gave a loud demanding meow as the surrounding leopards both stopped hissing and stood with a more relaxed stance. After that was done, the leader looked to Zeil for a few more seconds then turned away and started walking into the forest. As Zeil saw this he felt as if the creature wanted him to follow, so Zeil picked up his saddlebag and put the hood on his cloak up as he followed the guardian towards their next destination. As he followed, sunset came and went, then more time passed until soon the sky began brightening up to the dawn of the next morning. Tired from following the leading leopard through the jungle all night, Zeil watched their path lead to a large moss covered cave as the leopard stopped in front of the entrance and gave Zeil an emotionless stare.

As Zeil approached the cave he started to notice that the structure wasn’t really a cave after all, it was a hollowed out tree that was crafted into a home, similar to Zecora’s only slightly smaller and with a thick layer of moss and vines growing on the surface. As Zeil noticed the home he looked to the leopard who only stared at him for another few second before turning away and running into the jungle with little concern in its emotions. Once the leopard was gone, Zeil approached the entrance to the home as he looked inside with caution. Inside the furniture had been completely removed however in the center of the single room home was a large assortment of pillows all gathered in one place. And when Zeil looked to the center of the pile of pillows, Zeil saw something that concerned him. On the pillows sat the corps of a lone zebra who sat in a meditative pose who apparently died many years ago. As Zeil circled the corpse Zeil immediately noticed the Southern Tribe dashiki, the western tribe ring on his dominant arm, and an eastern tribe dagger in a sheath on his side as Zeil immediacy knew who he was looking at, “Mage Magi… so… you did die here.”
Seeing the emotionless expression on his face Zeil continued, “Seems it was painless, did he die in meditation… or was it who he saw in the state.”

Looking around Zeil spoke, “well, I guess I have to do the same here, but I can’t leave him like this.”
Doing what he felt was right, Zeil went outside and found an area where the ground was soft before proceeding to dig a grave for the fallen mage. Hours later, after Mage Muji was buried, Zeil placed his dashiki on a large stone he used as a tombstone then carved as best as he could the fallen mage’s name into the stone. After the previous mage was laid to rest, Zeil went inside the small hut placed all his belongings into his saddlebag excluding only the items given to him by the chiefs of Zebrica. After he sat the saddlebag aside, Zeil sat in the center of the pile of pillows as he positioned himself in a meditative pose and mumbled, “I’m not sure what comes next, but all I can assume is my next step is to face the darkness in me. So… lets hope this is right.”
Giving a bracing sigh Zeil sat in his meditative position as he closed his eyes and immediate fell into a meditative trance.

As soon as he entered the trance, Zeil opened his eyes to find himself in a place that he had never seen before. Zeil stood at the edge of a massive lake that was completely surrounded by vast green fields of grass with snow covered mountains in the distance. With the reflections of the clear blue sky and mountains clearly seen on the lake Zeil looked around in amazement as he mumbled, “This place… its beautiful… but why is it so… familiar?”
Curious, Zeil observed his surroundings closely until he noticed something small that was centered in the middle of the vast lake. Curious Zeil tried to look closer, but as he did his hooves slipped down the lake bed as he fell to the water’s surface. However as he met the water’s edge, Zeil hooves didn’t splash into the water instead they landed on the surface and stopped as if the water itself was a solid floor. Confused Zeil looked at his hooves and could see the water and everything under its surface, while he stood completely stationary on top of it. Understanding that this was a world created in a trance, Zeil assumed this was the way it was here as he looked back to the object in the center of the lake and started trotting towards it. at first the object seemed like a dark stallion sitting in a boat on the center of the lake but as he drew closer, he found that it wasn’t a boat at all, it was a stone protruding from the lake’s center and the stallion sitting on it was a changeling in his parasitic form, the same appearance that Zeil once held.

Immediately knowing who he was, Zeil continued approaching as he could look at the water beneath him and see strange structures beneath the water’s surface. Ignoring the structures, Zeil continued until he was close enough to the familiar changeling as the creature with his back to Zeil spoke, “It’s been a while Zeil… a lot has happened since last we met.”
The changeling stood and turned to him as Zeil replied, “Lucifer... I presume?”
The changeling nodded, “You presume right… since we last met, you were finally chosen, I'll be it… self-chosen. You faced a kingdom of the past, strangely enough one of my greatest failures. You saved a few kingdoms, and witnessed the end of the world despite how brief it was. You were knighted, saved one princess, guarded another. Coerced with highland clans, pirates, warring tribes, and even became a teacher while being taught yourself. Quite the life you’ve lived, and all within a decade. You should feel somewhat privileged. I have seen many lives before yours but only a fraction to have experienced as much as you.”

Zeil didn’t respond, instead he only gave the titan an unamused look as Lucifer nodded, “Ah… so your still upset over that little vow thing aren’t you?”
Zeil replied, “You murdered Chief Muji.”
“It was discrete.”
“Literally hundreds saw it…”
“You gave him plenty of warning.”
“His Tribe needed him.”
“How so?... a tribe is only as stable as its own Chief. If Muji had lived he would only have driven them all to ruin. If anything you should consider that an important lesson. A mage must maintain balance even at the cost of life. If you went to the Southern tribes now, I'm sure many would thank you for what I did.”

Zeil stepped closer and replied, “And what about your attempt to harm his tribe? What good would it have done to destroy all of them? Or for that matter the Eastern Tribes along with them? What would have happened should Chief Basarum’s attempt to knock you unconscious failed? Would you have seen all the tribes’ attempts to stop you as an imbalance? Would you have destroyed them all?”
Lucifer nodded, “Yes… that’s exactly right. Because you weren’t strong enough.”
“What?”
The titan replied, “It is the task of the mage to keep balance, not just in the world but in himself. I am darkness, you are light. You must balance us both to make good and bad decision and yet you failed. When Kante died, you just gave up. If not for me, the chief would have killed you then and there, but I acted first. My actions saved your life, and helped end the war without further bloodshed.”
Zeil shook his head, “There could have been no blood shed!”
“Unlikely… you know as well as I that in the presence of the mage there is always bloodshed. Especially a weak mage who can't even keep his own balance.”

Zeil was unsure, “What are you saying?”
Lucifer smiled, “Don’t play coy with me… you know exactly what I'm saying… How many have died in your wake? How many bodies did you leave behind despite the fact that you yourself killed none of them?”
The changeling disguised titan reached down from the stone he was standing on and tapped the water’s surface as the rippling water revealed images of those lost in Zeil’s travels. Supersonic, The Ibex Sensei, all present on Angela’s Peak, Xemnes from the Wooden Pergola Forest, King Mathias, General Arnold, Chief Muji, and last… Kante. As Zeil stepped back and looked at all the faces of those who died in his journey, He couldn’t help but feel somewhat at fault as he denied it, “I had nothing to do with any of them.”
Lucifer chuckled, “Are you sure about that? The mage is the presence of balance, but when unbalanced and untrained he only brings his original side… being light… so as all know, with light, comes darkness to balance. And though not all these souls were considered friend, death is the ultimate form of darkness.”

Zeil tried to defend himself as he replied, “Darkness or not, their deaths wasn’t my fault.”
Lucifer raised his hoof over the water as the tome of the mage seemed to arise from the depths until it hovered between the two, “Say what you want… but I have plenty of reason to believe in my own words. However, more comes into the presence of this tome.”
Lucifer then swung his hoof to the side causing the tome to open leaving every page to tear from the spine and begin orbiting around him. With the pages orbiting in a steady pace the titan spoke, “Every spell, hex, and curse within this tome was never written, these spells once seen appear within the tome. Once decided that these spells shouldn’t exist the mage sees to their removal from the world, and the tome writes them in order to be known only by the mage, so that if needed, he alone can use them to maintain balance. But these spells can only be decided of this, when witnessed by the mage himself.”
Zeil replied, “Okay that makes sense, so a spell unless witnessed won't appear in the tome… what’s that got to do with me?”

Nodding the Lucifer replied, “It has more to do with me… as it is a memory of my life… as well as yours. The memory that created the first and most forbidden spell within this tome.”
As that was said, the sky started flashing in a strange light as Zeil looked up to see that the sun was flying from one horizon to the next with great speed, only it wasn’t traveling like normal, it was going in reverse. With the sun passing by into the past, the next event to take place was the stone Lucifer was standing on slowly started to rise from the water, as Zeil realized that the waters in the lake were receding. As the water lowered, structures in the lake slowly rose to the surface as year of wear started to disappear on the titans pedestal until Zeil could see clearly that it wasn’t a large boulder, it was a pillar, one of many from the rising structures that reveled themselves from the depths of a sunken city. As the waters lowered till the bottom of the lake was revealed, grass and trees started to appear for a short while, until the unweathering of the structures around it revealed stone roads causing the toppled pillars to resettle into their original places and buildings became more new as a city rose around them. Amazed that a massive city was hidden under a lake Zeil looked around at first in wonder, but then in confusion as he noticed that many days had passed without a single resident roaming the streets.

As Zeil looked around the Lucifer waved his hoof once more bringing the orbiting pages back to the books cover before letting it close and dissolve into smoke. With that the titan spoke, “May I welcome you mage Zeil… to city of Petra… once the center of one of the most promising civilizations in the world. A race that most titans believed would become dominant if we were ever to pass on to the next world, a race that no longer exists.”
Slowly the reversing time started to slow as the whipping sun slowed enough to easily differentiate day from night. Then as if it had happened in an instant, the city streets were filled with roaming residents. A race that Zeil hadn’t seen before but recognized easily from his dreams. An anthropomorphic race with a rough thick flesh, sharp claws on its feet and hands, horns on its head, backwards knees on its legs and large bat like wings on its back. As Zeil looked at the creatures he spoke, “Demons? But I thought they only existed in Tartarus?”
The titan nodded, “They do… but they only existed there after I was banished to that place. This is a different race, one created by another… the same race I modeled demons after… Gargoyles.”
Zeil watched the resident as time slowed its reverse to a complete stop, then began moving forward at a normal pace, “Gargoyles, I’ve heard of them… but I thought they were only a myth?”
Lucifer nodded, “They were… But all myths have a sense of truth to them.”
Feeling there was more to that statement, Zeil looked to the titan, however before he could say anything, the changeling formed Lucifer vanished into thin air, as Zeil noticed a commotion approaching from up the street he were standing on as he saw many of the residents clearing a path and bowing to the party that was approaching.

Curious, Zeil looked up the road as he saw four creatures making their way down the street through the bowing crowds. One on the far end was a gargoyle with glasses who looked to be some sort of envoy. Next to him was a tall dragoness who Zeil could recognize as one of the titans. Next to the dragoness, was Lucifer in his titan form while walking next to him was a reformed changeling queen who could only be suspected as an envoy for her own titan. As the party walked closer, the Dragoness spoke to her envoy, “The kingdom looks to be prosperous as ever… complements to Queen Isabella for her efforts.”
The gargoyle bowed slightly in his walk, “You flatter us Milady. To have the titan Infernus complement our home is truly an honor.”
Infernus looked to Lucifer, “and what about you Lucifer? Do you like the kingdom thus far?”
Lucifer nodded, “I admit it is impressive… and if you say this is the kingdom most prevalent to lead my second attempt, then I'll take your word for it.”
The gargoyle was curious, “If I may Lord Lucifer… what is this second attempt you speak of?”
The Changeling Queen spoke, “That is a titan concern, not yours, it is a matter to be discussed with your que-”
Lucifer interrupted, “Mind your manners Queen Sera, we are guests.”
The changeling Queen bowed, “Forgive me Lord Lucifer.”

Lucifer replied to the gargoyle, “I will convers with your queen first… then we can discuss it further should she accept.”
Infernus spoke, “On that subject… what became of King Matthias? There were rumors that he lost his senses in his final years?”
Lucifer shook his head, “Though his claims of what became of Lilith seemed odd, so too do the relics of this worlds creation. If what he claims is true and a relic caused a great calamity, then I hope he found peace with its resolve. Even now after a century since his final breath.”
Infernus chuckled, “According to his claim his resolve was the work of a changeling knight. Laughable if I would say.”
The Changeling queen gave her a nasty look as she saw this and spoke, “Sorry… I meant no offence. I only meant that he didn’t seem in his right mind upon his… return.”
Lucifer shook his head, “King Matthias went through a great deal after Lilith fell. Five years of imprisonment before I destroyed and dissolved the Minotaur Kingdom. If his claim to see his kingdom fight in the same war multiple times is true, then it only adds to the troubles he has faced. I for one can't say I believe it myself, but, as long as he found peace. It shouldn’t matter whether it’s true or not.”
The Changeling Queen spoke, “And I'll thank this changeling knight to grant him this peace, weather he be real or figurative.”

Suddenly the setting changed into a massive throne room as Zeil looked around in confusion to the sudden change in scenery. As he looked around, he noticed the same party in the front of the throne room as they stood before a gargoyle queen who stood next to her throne. As they stood there, the queen bowed in respect as she spoke, “To have the great titans Lucifer and Infernus come to my kingdom… tis truly an honor milord and lady.”
Infernus nodded, “The honor is ours Queen Isabella however, this visit is of business not leisure.”
The Queen was curious as Lucifer spoke, “Infernus informs me that of all her creations, you hold the most promise in knowledge, skill, and reliability. Is this true?”
The queen smiled, “You flatter me milord. But in the risk of sounding boastful, we do have the greatest in the scientific community of all races. Even over the unicorn of the pony races.”

Lucifer nodded, “I come to discuss my attempt to unite the races in harmony. Though the incident that claimed the city of Lilith was terrible, I feel it’s time we look towards a second attempt to unite the races in a new kingdom. And since your race shows the most promise, I would like your race to both attend and lead this kingdom.”
Isabella was surprised, “Lilith? You are speaking of the kingdom of mixed pony races that fell almost two centuries ago?”
Lucifer nodded, “The same… I nearly drove the Minotaur to extinction after their betrayal and now that I look into it. Choosing races created by one titan could have been my folly. The ponies have always been more of a peaceful race as seen by their king and queen, but if I had stronger races mixed in from all titans, it could have ended differently. So now I will reattempt a new Lilith, this time with the strongest and most superior races from all titans. I have chosen Changelings from my own, Alicorn from the ponies, Hippogriff from the Leviathan, The wolves from Raiden, and from Infernus… I have determined that, your race would be best selected, as both residents, and as the rulers. Provided you choose a suitable monarch to rule this kingdom.”
The queen thought about the subject as she replied, “I’ll happily accept… however, I have a request. If I may?”
The queen gave a somewhat bashful but cute smile as Lucifer nodded, “You may…”
She spoke, “If I were to choose a successor and abdicate my throne here, would it be possible for the ruler of this new kingdom to be myself? And… in that regard, would I be able to work with… you… to make proper preparations of course.”
Sensing her attempts at flattery Lucifer smiled, “In my eyes, I see no fault in the decision.” He looked to the dragoness, “What about you? Will you allow her to abdicate her throne for this task?”
Infernus nodded as she replied, “It is no objection of mine to deny a ruler from my races to abdicate her own throne willingly. So if that’s what she wants, let it be.”

Queen Isabella smiled as she bowed, “Then I humbly accept this task. Please inform me of what I must do and I'll see it done.”
Lucifer nodded, “First we must establish a place for the new kingdom, then a name. In the mean time I would advise you to take note of the races that will be gathered and to learn more about them. As ruler it will be your task to know your subject. Their strengths, weaknesses, skills, and customs. Knowing these will insure that you maintain not only peace between the races, but how to rule them justly and fairly.”
The queen thought to herself, “I shall have my scholars begin this task at once. As for the location and name, I may need assistance in this. My race have chosen to remain in only one place, so our knowledge of territory and others is quite limited.”
Lucifer nodded, “I assure you, I will be working closely on the subject. After all you may be ruling the kingdom, but I have full charge of this new nation and its purpose.”
The queen smiled in a flirting manner, “I look forward to working with you milord. With you close, I'm sure this new kingdom will far surpass your expectations.”

Lucifer couldn’t help but smile at the charming queen as Infernus and the changeling queen noticed this as Infernus spoke, “Then we shall take our leave. Thank you for taking the time to see us your majesty.”
Isabella bowed, “it is I who should thank you for this most gracious of opportunities. I look forward to this honorable task.”
As the two titans and their envoys turned to leave the kingdom, Infernus waited till they were out of the throne room before speaking, “She is… quite enthusiastic, isn’t she?”
Lucifer replied, “As she said, this is an important opportunity.”
Infernus nodded, “Ah hum… and the fact that she was flirting had nothing to do with it.”
Lucifer played dumb, “That’s so… I didn’t notice.”
The changeling queen sighed, “Sure you didn’t my lord.”
Lucifer gave her an annoyed look as Infernus replied, “Though there is no rule against it… I will remind you that she is mortal. If love is in your sight… then it will be short lived.”

Lucifer sighed in hopelessness as he replied, “I will admit she has charm… but I'm not one to fall in love.”
Infernus nodded, “I see… I recall the Eden king saying the same. Mere decades before marrying the Queen.”
Lucifer replied with a skeptic glance, “What are you saying?”
Infernus replied, “I’m merely pointing out, that we all are capable of falling in love. But be warned love with a mortal is painful… not just because we will outlive them… but because there are many follies to being mortal.”
With nothing more to say on the subject Infernus walked away with a faster peace leaving both Lucifer and his envoy behind as Zeil watched her and spoke, “A warning… somehow I suspect you didn’t heed it… did you?”
Lucifer’s voice echoed from out of nowhere as it replied, “No… I was too much of a fool to see it in time.”
The surroundings went dark as he continued “Over the next few years, I spent time with Queen Isabella… we looked into locations, landscapes, and laws in governing the new kingdom. Since she was tasked with finding out information on the other races, I held no surprise when she made new discoveries in my absence, such as alicorn being able to use magic with a broken horn while under intense stress. Or how changelings with severed limbs and wings wouldn’t be able to function if they change into creatures with those same missing limbs. To me these discoveries were nothing more than her completing what I tasked her with… and as time passed, my attraction to her grew until I actually fell in love, for which she returned my love. But then the day came when I was truly reminded of the folly of being mortal.”

As that was said, the surrounding changed once again, this time to a familiar setting as Zeil saw Lucifer standing on a balcony overlooking the city. As he stood there, Queen Isabella entered the room as she smiled, “Apologies my love, I had some royal matters to attend to. I hope you did not wait long.”
As she approached, Lucifer turned to her as she held out her hand to him as he took it and smiled, “Of course my love, you say you wanted to show me something… lead the way.”
As the two started out of the room and through the corridor, Lucifer spoke, “By the way, I noticed a large number of citizens gathering in the square? Is there a celebration about to take place?”
She smiled, “Yes, I'm going to announce the first few families who will be traveling with me to the new kingdom. That and… if you’ve finally decided, will you be announcing the name of this new kingdom?”
Lucifer nodded, “Yes… I’ve decided to call this kingdom, Tartarus.”
She thought to herself as she replied, “Tartarus… interesting name. But I feel it will be a name that will soon be known by all.” She looked further down the hall as she spoke, “All of my scholars have finished their studies and now I feel that I will be able to rule the new kingdom far better than Lilith.”

Lucifer shook his head, “It was not the ruler of Lilith that led to its downfall, it was my ignorance to see what my Minotaur had become. They grew greedy and deceitful, that’s why I destroyed their kingdom.”
She asked, “But what of the survivors?”
He replied, “They grew greedy, but… the difference between greed and evil are two separate factors. So I denied them the right of a kingdom, but allowed them the right to live. But only because they kept Lilith’s king alive afterword’s. Part of me wonders if I should have removed them entirely. Should the situation arise a second time… perhaps I will.”
As the two approached a library door, and entered as the queen approached a lone book on the table and picked it up, “Here, this is a collection of all the research that my scholars have gathered.” She looked over the books cover, “It has taken a lot of work, but I feel tha- oh?” She paused and looked at the top edged of the pages, “There is a stain here… well this is unacceptable.”
After flipping through the pages to confirm that the stain was visible on all pages she handed the book to Lucifer and spoke, “No matter, we will talk with my scholars before we proceed to the square. Better yet, let us retrieve the original notes first. I believe they are down in the research chambers.”

Leaving the library, Queen Isabella walked towards a stairway that lead down to the ground level as Lucifer followed in curiosity. As he followed, Lucifer decided to open the book to see what was inside, the stain on the corner was a reddish brown and was present on every page but it didn’t seem to bother him as he looked through the research. On every page showed something about one of the other races that told all about their anatomy. The first few pages showed the average wingspan of the avian races as well as lift and how they maneuver in flight, the next was a series of basic spells that even the most unskilled alicorn can produce. Following into the changeling’s abilities to transform, and the wolves’ keen senses. As the stairs ended at the ground floor, the two preceded to a portion of the castle that Lucifer had never been to before as he looked through the pages and spoke, “This is remarkable research, I'm sure your scholars worked tirelessly on attaining this knowledge.”
Queen Isabella smiled, “They worked as hard as I did. I decided to assist in gathering this information personaly, and if not for the residents we collected, we wouldn’t have been this successful in gathering this knowledge.”
Lucifer was impressed, “Really? I suppose information such as this wouldn’t be as simple without volunteer for firsthand knowledge.”

As they looked further to the corridor, Queen Isabella led them to a small narrow spiral staircase that led further down underneath the castle. As Zeil saw this, a dark and foreboding feeling went through his body as Lucifer’s echoing voice spoke, “I will never forget this stairway… even to this day this place haunts my darkest memories… it will forever remain in my mind… as well as yours.”
As that was said, Queen Isabella and Lucifer went down the stairway as Lucifer continued looking through the book as Queen Isabella added, “In fact we had support from the entire populous of my kingdom, some chose to scout out citizens for research while others provided resources for my scholars. Thanks to them, we were able to gather at least over a hundred residents of all races to assist in this research.”

As Lucifer flipped through the pages, he soon came to a page that he felt uneasy about. The image showed in perfect detail, the anatomy of a hippogriff body. Everything from the blood vessels, bones, nervous system, even the reproductive system was hand drawn with perfect detail… the type of detail only found from one with firsthand knowledge and visuals. Confused Lucifer started to ask, however before he could say a single word, a thick and heavy scent filled the air of the stairwell as they continue deeper into the castles underground… a smell, of iron, blood, and rot. With the heavy smell, Lucifer covered his nose as he spoke, “These sketches… how did your scholars get them in such… detail?”
Before he could answer, Lucifer’s eyes met with the stain that was on the book as he immediately recognized it as blood. Seeing this, Lucifer felt a deep pit in his stomach as Queen Isabella smiled and replied with casual tone, “Oh… we have our ways, my scholars and I works effortlessly on making sure they were in prefect detail.”

As that was said, the two reached the bottom of the stairway as they entered a room that caused, Lucifer and Zeil both to stop in complete shock and horror. The room was an obvious torcher chamber, complete with many different kinds of torcher devices, blood stained chains, bars, gurneys, and small medical trays with fragments of bone, teeth and other skeletal remains. Lucifer was speechless as he stood at the doorway to the torcher chamber as Queen Isabella approached a nearby gurney and picked up a small cluster of papers, “Here, these are the original drawings. Luckily they are free of stains to- oh, never mind seems these are in worse shape then what you hold.” She giggled as she placed the papers back down, “My mistake, I hope what you hold is suitable enough.”
She turned to Lucifer and smiled without remorse or a sense of guilt for the room’s setting as Lucifer replied, “Did… did your scholars… dissect the subjects?”
She nodded, “Not just my scholars, the entire kingdom assisted. Many doctors from the hospital did some of the work, a few subjects gave us information of where to find more to study, even the local pharmacy provided medications and sedatives to lower their activity during experiments. Together, my kingdom united to bring you everything we discovered in that very book you hold.”

Horrified by her casual tone, Lucifer looked back down to the book and turned a page as he saw an alicorn’s anatomy on the next page, along with foal and elderly additions, “Foals?”
She nodded, “Yes, we wanted to ensure that some traits attained through age were also documented. That’s how we discovered what spells all alicorn naturally know and what is learned with age.”
Uneasy Lucifer asked, “How… how many subjects did you say you collected?”
She thought to herself as she replied, “Hard to say… some were collected in groups… or at least the ones with families were. Accurately… I would say about a hundred of each race. But it is probably twice that.”
Lucifer asked, “A hundred?”
Hearing concern in his tone, Isabella spoke, “Don’t worry my love, we only gathered residents from the outskirts of their kingdoms. Outcasts, travelers, any who had no direct impact on the kingdom’s economy or civilization. Basically any who wouldn’t be missed?”
Trying to take his mind off of it, Lucifer kept his eyes glued to the book, however as he turned the page one last time, that’s when his mind truly snapped.

On the next page, was the anatomy of changelings, reformed workers, drones, and queens. When he saw this his uneasy expression faded until he held no expression what so ever, “and you say… your entire kingdom had a part in this?”
She nodded, “Of course… As you said, I must learn as much as I can to rule these races as proficiently as possible. I think with this knowledge, Tartarus will become the envy of the entire world.”
Lucifer asked, “Does Infernus know about this?”
She smiled, “Why should she? As far as I'm concerned, we did this to serve you.”
He nodded, “I see.”

Sensing a strangely neutral tone in his expression, Isabella asked, “My love? Are you alright?”
Lucifer closed the book as he spoke, “Seeing this… only proves that my next course will be the best one for all of us.”
She was confused, “Course?”
At that moment a guard entered the room, “Your majesty, the subject have gathered and are awaiting instruction in the square.”
Lucifer looked to the guard and answered for her, “Good, then we shall see to them.” He looked back at Isabella, “As he said, your subjects await. Let us see them, and… allow me to speak to them. I have something important to tell them about the new kingdom.”
Queen Isabella felt a little worried as she replied, “Yes… of course. As you wish my love.”
Nothing more to say, Lucifer left the room without any expression while Queen Isabella couldn’t help but feel uneasy with his sudden change in attitude as she followed.

Then the setting quickly changed once again as Zeil found himself standing on a large stage that was obviously used for executions, but currently was decorated as a place for major announcements. As Zeil looked at the gargoyle citizens that completely surrounded the stage, he could only marvel at the crowd as Queen Isabella stepped to the podium and called, “Subjects and residents of all Petra, I stand before you today with not just news, but a blessing. The Titan Lucifer stands before you to christen this momentous occasion, for he has finally chosen a name for the Kingdom that we have all worked so tirelessly to build. A kingdom of which he has named, Tartarus. Now hear him, for he wishes to say a few words.” She turned to Lucifer, “My lord?”
Lucifer nodded as Queen Isabella stepped away from the podium and allowed him to stand before the kingdom. As he looked over the faces of gargoyles all with pride and hopeful expressions, he could only give an emotionless glance as he spoke, “Gargoyle Race… your ruler has shown me the fruits of your labor. She has shown me just how far you are willing to go to see this kingdom a success and to see its rule far into the future. And after seeing just how far you will go, I have come to the decision that Tartarus, the city which was meant to unite the races… will never be.”

As that was said, the entire crowd of gargoyles gave him a confused look as he continued, “The races cannot live in peace. Even when ruled by one who would be seen as the dominant of all races… your mortality, selfishness, and lack of empathy only prove your feelings of superiority over all who are different from you. So… rather than granting you a kingdom to rule, I shall grant you something more.”
With that said, Lucifer raised his arm high as a large amount of black magic started accumulating in his palm as he spoke, “Gaze upon the results of your efforts.”
With fast movements, Lucifer closed his hand around the ball of magic lowered his arm and swung it as the gathered magic sifted out of his hand and flew through the observing crowed as everyone watching covered their face in reflex to the flying wave of black magic. After the magic crossed threw them and vanished, the crowed opened their eyes and looked around in confusion as the area was filled with a foreboding silence.

Confused the crowed of observing gargoyles looked at one another as they tried to spot the results of the magic. However as one of the gargoyles looked around he looked at his arm then brought it up and swatted it as if it had an insect on it. Then he repeated the action as he started swatting at other parts if his body before screaming in fear, “SPIDERS! They are on me! GET THEM OFF!!!”
After that, another looked at his arm in horror as he spoke, “My skin… it’s… IT’S FALLING OFF! I'm MELTING!!!”
One by one the crowed of gargoyles started screaming in fear as they each called a different reason for screaming as Queen Isabella and her guards stared in confusion at the panic that the crowed was experiencing. As they watched in worry, Lucifer looked to the royal guards as he spoke, “What are you waiting for?… see to them!”
Taking it as an order, the guards nodded as one replied, “Y-yes my lord!”
As the royal guards left the stage to calm the panicking crowed, Isabella spoke in confusion, “My love… what is happening? What did you do?”
Lucifer replied as he looked at the chaos before him, “I showed them what happens when faced with your greatest fears… naturally, panic is the first reaction… but if they would take the time to see the illusion. Then the pain they feel would stop. Sadly… mortals are incapable of such things. For their fear of death is always apparent.”
She shook her head, “But… why are they feeling this pain at all? Why would you do this? I thought you cared about us? About me?”

Lucifer turned around a gently caressed her Isabella’s cheek with his palm as he spoke, “Isabella… my love, I do care about you. Through all this time with you, I have grown fond of you… which I never thought possible with any mortal.” She smiled as she placed her hand on his as he continued, “It came fare enough that I felt I could give all the light in my heart to you. With you… I am balanced.”
Slowly the thumb on Lucifer’s hand crossed over her chin, “However…”
Almost immediate, Lucifer pushed his hand up until his palm was against her throat as he squeezed her neck and lifted her in the air while strangling her with one hand. Struggling Isabella grabbed his arm as Lucifer spoke in anger, “You crossed a line… You and your race showed such promise… but what you lack completely… is empathy. And no kingdom can rule without such a commodity. Your subjects see their greatest fear, and feel their greatest pain, simply because they failed to see the pain and suffering that they emitted upon those who died for you’re so called… Research…”

Queen Isabella started clawing at his arm in an effort to free herself, but the titan’s powerful grip and strength proved too much as she then chose to reach with her dominant hand in an attempt to claw at his face. But this too proved useless as his reach was far greater then hers. Sadly her struggling only tightened the titan’s grip as the claws on his fingers started cutting into her skin deep enough to cause miner bleeding, but still lightly enough that the only thing threatening her life was his powerful grip. Paying it no mind, Lucifer continued, “Although… I should actually thank you my love… you proved something that Infernus tried to explain to me before… that you are mortal. And it is this mortality that proves to be your ultimate flaw. Since your life is temporary, you strive to make its existence as important as possible. This being a ruling position in a newly founded kingdom commition by a titan. You wanted your name immortalized but you were willing to overlook those beneath you to claim such a prize. Well now you will be immortalized… as the last queen of your race.”
With that said, the queen’s struggling slowly subsided as her grip on his arm slowly faded until her arms fell to her side as her body went limp. Seeing that her life was now fading, Lucifer kept his grip tight for a few second more before dropping her to the ground and looking upon her lifeless body, “Now…” he raised his arm again, “Do not fade from this world just yet… I still have use of your soul.”

With no concern for the corpse in front of him, Lucifer raised his hand over her body as a faint aura of light seeped frim her mouth as it collected into a ball in the palm of his hand. With the queen’s soul literally in the palm of his hand, Lucifer looked at the aura and spoke, “Such a frail soul… for such a heartless act. It’s only fitting that it too should be heartless in its final use.”
With the queen’s blood still on his claws Lucifer bent his fingers inward so that the tips of his claws would enter the soul, as the blood dissolved turning the soul into a red ball of magic. Seeing this Lucifer spoke, “As Titan of Balance… I command thee, bring forth a spell of extinction upon this land. Cast thee and all thyn race to ash, and never allow thee existence. As Titan I command, complete this Curse… Spiritual Extinction.”
With rapid movements, Lucifer thrusted his hand upward as the red ball of magic flew unto the sky and vanished in clouds above before exploding in a red flash then vanishing without a trace. As he looked at the now empty sky, Lucifer sighed, “It’s done… now to wait ti-“
“LUCIFER!!!”
Confused, Lucifer looked to the end of the stage as he saw a battered and bruised royal guard standing there with injuries sustained by trying to calm the panicking crowed. Seeing this, Lucifer looked into the riot that was breaking out between the guards and citizens as the royal guard called, “WHY!?!... Why did you do this? Why murder our queen? Why curse us to this nightmare? All we did, we did to see your dream a reality! You curse us for that? Why!?!”
Lucifer turned to the guard as he replied without an expression, “A titan doesn’t need to answer to the like of a mortal peon. But if you truly curse me in response, then make the remainder of your life worthy. Face me!” He pointed his arm and extended his hand vertically towards the guard, “Charge and kill me, if you feel so distraught.”

Seeing that the titan was serious in his invitation caused the guard to look into the chaos around him before looking back, bearing his spear, and charging with a war cry of one truly desperate. As the royal guard neared his stationary target he closed his eyes in desperation as he trusted his spear forward and felt his weapon imbedding itself into its target. Confused that no retaliation came, the guard opened his eyes only to be shocked with the sight. The spear’s blade had pierced Lucifer’s extended hand, crossed over his elbow then embedded into the titan shoulder as Lucifer only stood stationary with a cringed expression as he tried to bear the pain. Shocked by his actions, the guard released his spear and backed away as he spoke, “What… what have I done?”
Lucifer grabbed the spear with his unpierced hand and pulled the blade from his shoulder, then through the hole in his palm as he tossed the weapon aside and replied, “You did your kind proud. Sadly… your fate is sealed. Farewell brave warrior, you will be the last of your kind that I will ever see again.”
Confused the guard looked into the riot taking place as the actions of all gargoyle citizens and guards slowed down as many started falling to the ground as their bodies slowly dissolved into ash. As this happened, the noise and screams echoing throughout the city started to subside as one by one, every gargoyle dissolved leaving nothing behind.

Shocked and horrified, the guard looked to his arm as it too started to dissolve across his body leaving his armor to fall to the ground empty. In a matter of seconds, all noise, all life and every gargoyle in the vicinity and throughout the entire kingdom vanished into ash as all their lives ended all at once. Now completely alone, Lucifer looked over the now empty streets as he spoke, “and so… my light ends. And with it… my darkness spreads.”
With that said, the image fades as Zeil spoke, “You… you killed them all?”
The echoed voice of Lucifer didn’t respond, as the setting returned with the titan form Lucifer standing on a small island at sea with the king and queen alicorn standing in front of him, next to them Infernus also stood, while towering over all three was a massive sea serpent that had his head low enough to convers, that Zeil could only recognize as the titan Leviathan. With five of the six titans present, Infernus spoke in rage, “HOW DARE YOU!!! I SHOULD KILL YOU FOR THIS!!!”
Lucifer nodded as he spoke with remorse, “And it would be in your right to do so.”
As that was said, the Queen Alicorn spoke, “Calm yourself Infernus, though I agree that what he did is unforgivable, we cannot resort to murder. None should claim the life of a titan, not even a fellow titan.”
Infernus looked to the queen, “Where is Raiden? Why isn’t he here to help pass judgment?”
The massive leviathan looked down to the smaller titans as he replied, “Raiden agree’s with Lucifer’s actions. He clams that he refuses to pass judgment on a crime that he sees as justified.”
The king alicorn spoke, “Justified or not he broke one of our rules regarding the mortal races. We should only create life with a purpose for its existence, if nessisary we can remove a race should they prove unworthy, and in no circumstance should we ever remove a race created by another. This third rule was deliberately broken by Lucifer and so judgment must be passed. We must maintain order… even amongst ourselves.”
Infernus raised her dragon like claws as she spoke, “As I said… We should gut him where he stands!”
The queen replied, “I will not allow it. Enough blood has been spilled, and I will not bear witness to more.”
Infernus replied as she glared at Lucifer, “Then look away.”
The leviathan spoke, “Calm yourself Infernus… there must be another punishment worthy of this crime.”

The King thought to himself before speaking, “The unicorn race have discovered an interesting realm… it sits aside this, and yet somehow… underground. Perhaps, rather than execution, we may permanently banish him to this realm.”
The queen nodded, “Seems fitting… but… to banish him alone. Shouldn’t it always be within our duty to rule? A titan mush always have subjects.”
The leviathan nodded, “Your creations… have they established law and order… perhaps, it would be better that this new prison for Lucifer can be shared by those who’s crimes are too severe for their civilizations. I know of a few within the hippogriff kingdom that are set to be imprisoned for the remainder of their lives. Supposed this new realm is a better setting for such criminals.”
“And I shall rule them…”
All titans looked to Lucifer as he continued in his statement, “If I am to continue to rule and be imprisoned at the same time… then I will rule over a realm of prisoners. If nessisary I may even create a new race to assist… but only for that realm.”
The Queen spoke, “Lucifer… know that by accepting this, there will be no freedom for you. This realm with be your final home. Only with death can you ever be set free.”

Lucifer nodded as he replied, “We all have a role do we not? The King and Queen alicorn, to raise and lower the sun and moon, Infernus, to rule the magma and lands. Raiden, to rule the sky and forests, Leviathan, to rule the seas and ice. Then there is me… to maintain balance of light and darkness in this world. But now… I have no light to bear, so to leave me amongst the mortals will only bring darkness and misery to this world. It should be fitting that I be imprisoned where I can do no harm to innocents.”
Infernus sighed in anger as she replied, “I still say we should slay you and be done with it… but since the four of you vote on this new prison place… then who am I to argue with the majority.”
The Queen nodded, “It’s settled then… however there is one more matter to discuss… That spell.”
The King nodded, “Agreed, Lucifer… the spell you’re created, this… Spiritual Extinction… since it is now clear that such magic can exist, then if knowledge of its existence gets out, then it’s possible that one or many races may try to recreate it. And though it won't be easy we know that mortals can be determined enough to recreate spells that even a titan with our vast power can find challenging.”
Lucifer nodded, “Agreed, but what did you have in mind to keep it secret?”

Infernus thought to herself before replying, “Sadly…I can think of only one option… we cover it up. We make it so that this spell and its victims didn’t exist. Meaning… we have to remove the Gargoyles from existence both literally and historically.”
The king nodded, “Yes, I will order a recall of all history books and have them removed. This means that all the gargoyles research and scriptures must be destroyed… including the tome that started this whole mess.”
The Queen replied, “If we remove them from text, it will only take a few generations to have them removed permanently… but what about the city? It still stands untouched correct? To have an empty city of culture stand will invite many to study the ruins and possibly discover its paste and history, to include its fall.”
The Leviathan sighed in disappointment, “Then there is only one option to prevent this… complete and total segregation of the races.”
The king nodded, “Agreed, we will issue a new order. All races must reside in towns, cities and settlements of their own race. None shall live on territory owned by another races’ titan, and new settlement must be approved by their ruling titan. As for Lucifer’s creations… they will be free to govern themselves so long as they reside only in Lucifer’s established territory. That includes the minotaurs who’s kingdom no longer exists. They must reside in settlements in Lucifer’s former territory.”

Lucifer sighed in disappointment as he replied, “Then… it is true, in my goal to see races living together in peace and harmony… I only succeeded in separating them further.”
Infernus replied with a cold tone, “It’s only fitting is it not? We wouldn’t want word of your spell getting out. Though we still have to claim that you committed an atrocity that caused you to fall from grace, so if anything, you besmirched the name of the titans… well done Lucifer, way to see our creations question their faith.”
Ignoring the cold tone, Lucifer kept his silence as The Queen spoke, “It’s all for the best… this new power goes beyond forbidden after all. So now… all we need to do is establish a name for this new realm. If we are to announce it as a punishment then we must give it a proper n-“
“Tartarus.”
All eyes went to Lucifer as he continued with conviction, “The name of this prison of which I rule… is Tartarus. A place of misery, pain, and torment. May the titans grant mercy to all casted there, for I Lucifer, will offer no such mercy?”
The king nodded “Very well, then Tartarus, it shall be.”

As that was said, the visions slowly changed until Zeil found himself standing in a large open field with blood roses growing all around him. With little attention on the setting, Zeil spoke, “So… that’s how it happened. The start of Tartarus, your crime, and even the creation of Spiritual Extinction… but… why did you show me this?”
The changeling disguised titan appeared and paced thorough the blood roses as he expertly stepped through without touching them and replied, “Only two living beings in existence know this truth… The Leviathan, the world’s last living titan… and you… the could-be Mage of Zebrica.”
“Could be?”
The titan nodded, “To be the mage, you must understand this final lesson… then face your final trial. Then, and only then will I ever accept you as the true Mage of Zebrica.”
Zeil nodded, “Okay my final trial… which is?”
The changeling stopped pacing and faced Zeil as he spoke, “Do you remember what I said last time we spoke? About what I would do next we meet?”

Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “It’s been a very long time… to be honest, I don’t remember every detail.”
A vine of black liquid rose from the ground next to the changeling as it weaved then hardened into a spear as he replied, “I said… that the next time we saw each other… we would face each other again. Only this time… I would seek to take your life.”
With the spear hardened, the changeling griped the weapon and swung it across his body as the fast moving blade severed a number of blood roses in front of him, leaving the stems to start bleeding as he smiled, “Since then… Nothing has changed. Now… Face your final trial. If you are the mage, then you will face and defeat me… but if you aren’t… then you die here. Understand?”
Zeil braced his hooves as he replied, “If this is what I have to do… then so be it. Give me my weapon so I can begin.”
The smile on Lucifer’s face faded as he replied, “So… you’ve yet to learn you’re most important lesson then haven’t you.”
Zeil gave him a confused look as the changeling disguised titan sighed, “Pity… but it’s too late to turn you away now.”
Zeil was at a loss as more liquid rose next to him as it too hardened into a spear as the changeling spoke, “Take your weapon mage Zeil… and let’s hope that unlike the last mage… you will survive your final task.”

Bk12/Ch3 Balanced

Book 12/Chapter 3
Balanced
(Year ??, Month ??, Day ??)

Lucifer in Zeil’s former changeling appearance, stood across the large blood rose patch wielding a black wood spear as Zeil stood about fifty feet away with his spear still standing on end next to him. As he reached for the weapon provided, Lucifer gave one last warning, “Like last time… as soon as you take your weapon… we will begin, and I won't stop until your dead.”
Zeil nodded, “One year of training under Chief Basarum, and more so with other teachers… I'm more than ready.”
Lucifer replied as he stood at the ready, “You’re a fool if you think that… but… you chose to come here all the same. Take your weapon… it’s time we end this.”
As Zeil reached for the weapon, he remembered that as soon as he touched it last time, his opponent wasted no time in his first charge so this time as soon as Zeil grabbed the spear, he readied himself as he shifted to a defensive stance.

As soon as Zeil grabbed the spear and set his stance, Lucifer charged at full speed as the changeling form made it easy for him to close the distance with haste. With his training Zeil was able to see the fast changeling’s actions better than last time, however his movements were still too much for him as Lucifer closed the distance and started the fight with an attempt at a killing strike. Barely able to keep up, Zeil raised his spear deflecting it slightly as the trust was forced to the right of Zeil’s neck leaving a cut in what could have been a killing blow. As soon as he realized he was still outmatched, Zeil jumped back to gain distance from his opponent, however, Lucifer lunged with him and spun his body with his Jump bringing the shaft of his spear against Zeil’s side with a powerful swing. With the hit breaking his balance, Zeil landed with a stumble before looking back to Lucifer just in time to see a second swing as the fast attack struck Zeil across his face knocking him to the ground as he crushed a few blood roses in his fall.

Trying to move quickly Zeil stood up but before he could gain any stance at all, Lucifer with no distance between them, thrusted his spear under Zeil’s hooves as he flung his weapon upwards with the shaft of his weapon picking Zeil up and throwing him over his shoulder. But before Zeil could hit the ground behind him, Lucifer reared up his hind hooves and kicked will all his power as he hit Zeil’s chest throwing him across the area with his head faced down to the ground. Landing head first into a long painful roll, Zeil tumbled across thirty feet of blood roses as a long red gash was left behind in the snow white field as if the very earth had a deep red cut on it. When Zeil’s stopped rolling he struggled to pick himself up but as he did he felt and intense pain in his chest as he realized that that last kick had broken a few ribs. Releasing his weapon in pain and struggling to stand, Zeil glared at his changeling opponent as Lucifer started to approach slowly, “What’s the matter Zeil… I thought you said… You were more than ready!!!”
With emphasis on his words, Lucifer charged again. Seeing this, Zeil quickly looked around for his spear, but before he could secure his weapon, Lucifer had already closed the distance as he flipped his spear so that the blade was facing away and thrusted the back of his weapon into Zeil’s chest. As the impact cased Zeil to gasp, Lucifer punched upwards with his left hoof throwing Zeil into the air as Lucifer grabbed Zeil by his airborne hind hoof and flung him back onto the ground slamming him against the blood roses, then proceeded to spin and fling Zeil a few more feet across the field creating a second gash in the already bleeding field.

With Zeil too weak to stand Lucifer approached, “You think any amount of training will make you stronger than me? You don’t get it do you…” He stuck his weapon into the ground as he picked up Zeil’s head with one hoof and punched him in his face, “I am a part of you…” he punched again, “Every Spell,” then again, “Every skill,” again “Every discovery,” again, “Everything you learned,” then again “I learned with you!”
With one last swing, Lucifer punched Zeil’s face downward as he released his head allowing it to slam against the ground with final punch. Stunned, battered, and bruised, Zeil could only lay against the ground as Lucifer stood over him, “The difference between you and I though… you learned all within your lifetime… I learned through multiple. Mage Nero the first mage, Mage Seraphim, Mage Phalla, and many more… I lived their lives as well as yours and through all that, I remember everything. Their skills, their knowledge, even their follies. I know everything they know, and that goes double for you.”

Zeil tried to respond, but as he did, he realized it was difficult to move his jaw so all he could do was drain his energy in lifting his head which only turned to a brief cough of blood before falling back down in exhaustion. Lucifer sighed, “Unfortunately… there is only one thing about you I don’t know… the one answer to the question that many have asked you… but you have brushed away so carelessly. What will you do when you return to Equestria?”
Zeil on the ground turned his head to look at Lucifer as the titan continued, “Yes I know many have asked and your only answer was, to tell Zecora the truth… but then what next? We both know what will happen if she accepts you… but what about if she turns you away? What will you do then?”
Zeil wanted to reply but with his body already too worn to move, he could only lay and listen as Lucifer continued, “Will you happily leave and never return to Equestria? Will you resent her, and act on anger? Will you resent the ponies, for casting you away? Will you, with knowledge on the subject bring pain, misery, and extinction upon the pony race without remorse?”

Lucifer paced around him as Zeil tried to follow with his eyes as the titan continued, “Then… there is that picture… the problem with it that has been on your mind ever since you first saw it… The photo of the last mage, Zecora, and that little problem that torments you so… the filly.”
Lucifer completely circled Zeil and continued pacing, “You know the truth… you know it as well as I and despite how much you know… you continue to deny it. You choose to believe that that happy family in that photo is your family. That that Stallion the husband is you, that loving wife is really Zecora, and that cute little filly is your daughter, the product of a happy reunion between you, an outcaste changeling, and her, the zebra enchantress of the Everfree Forest.”
He stopped pacing as he looked down to Zeil, “But we know better… don’t we?”

Lucifer kneeled down over Zeil as he spoke, “We both know, that no matter how much you want it to be true, no matter how hard you wish, no matter what you or Zecora can both believe with all the hope in your hearts… that there is one little flaw in this plan. Now… say it.”
Zeil laid his head down, and hesitated as tears started building in his eyes, “We… I-I… can't…”
“You can't what? Speak up?… What can't you do?… What can't any changeling do? The thing that I, the creator of the changeling race specifically encoded to your kind that make it so impossible… Say it…”
With a tear rolling down his face Zeil struggled to get his words out, “Changelings… can't… reproduce… with other races.”
Lucifer nodded, “Exactly… if she were a changeling queen, it would be another story but with a zebra… offspring are an impossibility. Changelings can change everything about themselves, their shape, their voice, their height, strength, you can even rearrange your own organs and blood color so that you can be treated by a doctor of any race in perfect disguise… but no matter what you do, changelings cannot reproduce with other races. I know because I made that feature personally to prevent fear that a swarm was trying to breed another race out of existence. But you… you clung to the lie and hoped that that photo was truth. That you and Zecora could be happy and have the family of your dreams. Sadly… consider this a wakeup call. The mage who chose you, is a zebra. You felt it with your changeling senses and yet you overlook that truth. Weather he is truly you… has yet to be seen, but from what I see… you and he… are two different beings entirely.”
“Y-your… wrong…”

Lucifer rose up and took a step back till he was standing next to his embedded spear as he replied, “What was that?”
Zeil with every ounce of strength he had, picked himself up as he spoke with as much authority as he could muster, “I don’t know how… but the filly in that photo… is my blood. That mare… my wife… and no matter what you say will change that. I don’t know what I will do if Zecora turns me away, but if I truly am your light, then I'll be optimistic and say that she loves me as much as I love her… and if that is true… She won't turn me away.”
With emphasis in his last word, Zeil tried one last act of desperation as he charged at Lucifer with all the strength his body had left. However with no weapon, a broken rib, and all other wounds he had endured, his movements were much slower than normal as Lucifer waited for a split second before pulling his spear from the ground, turning the blade sideways and swinging his weapon as he timed it perfectly to bash the side of the blade against Zeil’s face as the blade’s tip left a deep cut along his cheek.

With the attack stopping and stunning Zeil, Lucifer proceeded to reach out and grab Zeil by his mane as he spun around and tossed him into the air. Then with no delay in his actions, Lucifer readied his spear and threw it with deadly accuracy as the airborne projectile closed in and stabbed into Zeil’s gut as the now impaled changeling fell to the ground leaving yet another scar on the blood rose field. Now impaled, Zeil laid with no strength left as the blood from his wounds, mixed with the blood from the blood roses around him. As Lucifer slowly approached, Zeil had no strength to even lift his head as he shifted his eyes to the approaching titan who could only look upon him pity, “So that’s it then… of all you went through… this is how your story ends.”
Lucifer rolled Zeil onto his back before grabbing his spear and pulling it out from Zeil’s body as the defeated changeling didn’t even have the strength to scream in pain. All he could do was cringe and gasp before laying back as Lucifer raised his spear over Zeil’s head as he spoke, “Such a pity… for a while, I actually believed you would be the first changeling mage in history… sadly… I was mistaken. If you have the strength to say them… now would be the time to speak your last words.”

Although Zeil did want to say something, it was no use, his body was completely drained. He had an impalement wound in his gut, he had multiple broken ribs, a deep cut on his face and neck and part of him even thought his jaw was broken since he didn’t even have the strength to open his mouth. Since there was nothing more he could do, Zeil could only glare at Lucifer in anger. Seeing this, Lucifer nodded, “Very well… Goodbye mage Zeil. If it’s any consolation… I was rooting for you to the very end.”
As Lucifer raised his spear up with the blade aiming for Zeil’s neck, Zeil could only close his eyes in acceptance. But before anything else could happen, Zeil heard a voice, “So… you’re throwing in the towel?”
Confused, Zeil opened his eyes to find himself standing before Chief Rafi as he realized all his wounds were gone. Confused, he spoke, “What?”
Chief Rafi repeated, “Your giving up… didn’t think I would ever see that day. Especially after that whole Dark Alicorn fiasco. I assumed you could handle anything.”
Standing before Chief Rafi, Zeil spoke, “I can't win… all the training I did, he is still stronger them me.”

All of a sudden a second incredibly familiar voice spoke next as he chuckled, “Never thought I would see the day that my big brother drone would call it quits.”
Shocked by the voice, Zeil turned around to see Supersonic standing in place with a confident smiled on his face. Stunned Zeil spoke, “S-sonic?”
Supersonic smiled, “You’ve toppled literal kingdoms before Equestria… and you going to quit while fighting your alter ego? Maybe I finally surpassed you after all, though event with me saying it, I would find it hard to believe.”
Zeil shook his head, “Sonic, even I have my limits. I tried to be the strong dependable brother since it’s what you needed to stand out amongst the rest of the workers. But this opponent… he is too much even for me.”

Another familiar voice spoke from behind, “Is he? Or are you indecisive of what you truly hold? Once we lose sight within ourselves then, and only then, are we truly lost.”
Zeil turned to see the Ibex Sensei standing there as he spoke, “Sensei?”
The Ibex smiled, “Good to see you master Zeil… and I mean that literally. To actually see you… you’re taller than I expected.”
Disregarding the statement Zeil replied, “How am I supposed to win Sensei? Against one so powerful.”
The Sensei sighed, “In many cases, we must choose the fights to fight, and on occasion, fight those we don’t choose. If I say this fight is meaningless, I choose to ignore your fate. And what sort of sensei would I be to do so. I cannot choose how to fight this fight… that choice, must reside in you.”
Confused Zeil replied, “I don’t understand… this fight isn’t my choice. And even then I can't win, I'm literally fighting a titan. A god basically.”

Another voice spoke up, “Too right, this is a tough nut to crack, but I think a bloke as tough as you can conquer this mountain without a hitch. After all, ya beat worse when we were with ya.”
Immediately recognizing the voice, Zeil turned again, this time looking at Hotham, Everest, Kiloman, and Pike from Angela’s Peak. Seeing them, Zeil replied to Hotham’s statement, “Angel wasn’t a titan, and… I lost against her remember.”
Pike shook his head, “We ain’t talkin about Angel… We are talkin about Angela’s Peak, that mountain was treacherous and it claimed all four of us… but you of all survived.”
Still in denial, Zeil shook his head, “That’s not the point. I lost that fight too… even if I made it to the peak, I didn’t make it back alone. Angel saw mercy on me and brought me back.”
Kiloman smiled, “And why do you think that is? We all challenged that mountain, but when she saw our fate, she chose to end us mercifully.”
Everest spoke next, “Take it from me… we all hold qualities that others can't see on the outside. She saw something in you that she sparred. What could that quality be I wonder?”
Zeil started thinking to himself, “I… I don’t even know anymore.”

Another familiar voice spoke, “Maybe, she, as well as all of us just saw hope looking at you. I'll be honest, when I saved you in Lilith, part of it was just seeing the wrong and stepping in, but another part of it was that… of all those trapped in that forsaken kingdom. There was just a natural light to you… something that… needed to be trusted.”
Zeil turned to the new voice to see King Matthias standing there as he replied, “I’ve been told I was light for a long time… but… I never believe it. If you only knew my past before Zecora… then you would know Light isn’t what I am. I'm… nothing.”
King Mathias gave him a dull look, “Really? You came to my kingdom, saved my subjects, and even saved me and all of those souls from endless torment, and you still have the nerve to call yourself nothing? You are light Sir Zeil… even if you don’t believe so. The lives of over a thousand souls would attest to that.”

One last voice spoke as the young filly approached, “I would say so to…”
At that moment, Zeil turned to see Kante standing there as she spoke with authority, “You saved me, and I aim to return the favor. As my teacher, it’s time for you to take a test of your own… What was the purpose of the enchanter of light?”
Zeil replied, “To teach me to be the mage.”
“Wrong! What is the purpose of the enchanter of light!?!”
Zeil thought to himself before replying, “To remind me of my light side… so I could harness my dark side… right?”
She smiled, “Good… now with that in mind, do you remember the three things needed to defeat your opponent…”

Zeil looked to Kante who stood with a pleasant smile as she continued, “To defeat your opponent, you have to know three things right? Know your Surroundings, Know your opponent, and know yourself. The problem here is, your ignoring all three. You don’t seem to know any of those.”
Zeil shook his head, “What? But I-”
She interrupted, “Think clearly Mage Zeil… who is your opponent?”
Zeil nodded, “Lucifer…”
She shook her head, “Wrong… think like a Mage, Who is your opponent… Where are you fighting right now… and… Who are you?”
Seeing the determination in her eyes, Zeil thought to himself for a brief moment before it all became clear to him, “That’s it…”
She smiled, “Good… now take up your spear… and Fight!”

Almost immediately, all of Zeil’s wounds and pain had returned as he found himself laying at the mercy of Lucifer’s spear. Then as Lucifer dropped his spear blade to end Zeil’s life, a loud metal chime was heard as Lucifer’s eyes widened when he saw the tip of his blade being blocked by the shaft of a golden spear in Zeil’s hoof. Standing in amazement, Lucifer could only look into Zeil’s eyes as his pupils shifted to center on him as Zeil spoke, “That’s it… That’s the lesson…”
As that was said a massive shockwave emitted from Zeil’s body as the powerful force pushed Lucifer a couple of feet away causing him to land on his hooves and slide across the ground making the first scare in the field caused by his body.
Surprised, Lucifer watched as Zeil used the newly formed golden spear to pick himself up from the ground, as every wound on his body slowly closed and healed until Zeil looked just as he did at the start of the battle. Smiling Lucifer spoke, “So… you finally got it don’t you… you finally know the lesson.”

As soon as that was said, Lucifer swung his spear upwards as he deflected a golden spear that was tossed at him from Zeil’s own hoof. Though his attack was blocked, Zeil could only smile as he stood strait and replied, “Yes… you are my darkness, I am your Light, and where we are is my mind owned and controlled by us together. Last time we fought here, I stalled you when I thought about the fireflies in Equestria. So I figured it out… Just like last time, this world will bend to the whim of whoever holds the will to take control. And now that I know this…”
Zeil held out his hoof as golden liquid seeped from the ground beneath him, weaved itself into a sharpened golden spear before hardening in place just as the black spear in Lucifer’s hoof did before. With his new weapon his hoof, Zeil finished his sentence, “I will win this fight.”
Lucifer smiled as he began his charge, “WE WILL SEE ABOUT THAT!!!”

Lucifer charged at Zeil with the same speed as he held before, however, this time Zeil could both see his actions, and could move fast enough to block them as Lucifer attacked with a string of slashes, thrusts and parrying as he tried everything he could to strike at Zeil’s vital parts, however Zeil succeeded in blocking and deflecting every attempt as he watched Lucifer’s actions closely, looking for an opening. As Lucifer attacked he spoke, “Takes more than strength of will to be the mage! Much More! Do you know what you lack yet? DO YOU!!!”
As he yelled those last words, Lucifer thrusted his spear one last time As Zeil thrusted his spear at the exact same time with deadly precision and accuracy. As both spear blade’s were thrusted Lucifer’s spear was blocked, But Zeil’s hit its mark as the very tips of both blades collided with such force that Lucifer’s blade cracked slightly as gold liquid from the tip of Zeil’s blade surged into the cracks with such force and speed, that Lucifer’s blade exploded out as shards of sharp metal scattered in all directions as the metal shards bounced off of Zeil without any damage. Lucifer however quickly covered his throat and eyes as the metal shards peppered his body with such power that they imbedded deep into his skin with some even cutting into his face as the following shockwave from the exploding spear’s blade threw the titan back as he hit the ground and rolled through the blood roses in pain.

After that was done, Zeil with his weapon still hoof and no wounds on his body, slowly approached the fallen titan as Lucifer laid on the ground coughing up blood from the shards of metal that pierced his chest and lungs. Now with Lucifer too weak to stand, the wounded changeling smiled, “Well… done… your mind was strong enough to destroy my weapon, and to stop me from healing myself… looks like you were strong enough after all.” He rolled over on his back, “Now… finish this fight… and end me. Vanquish your darkness, and finish your trial Mage Zeil.”
Zeil stepped closer till he was standing over Lucifer as he held his spear over his head and spoke with no emotion, “You granted me a chance to say my last words… so I'll grant the same… speak your peace.”
Lucifer smiled as he closed his eyes, “I’ve said all I can say… the rest… is up to you.”
With the spear over Lucifer’s head Zeil nodded, “Good… then we are done here.”
That said, Zeil thrusted the spear downward with deadly accuracy as he buried the blade where he intended, then released the spear leaving it to stand in place.

After a brief moment of silence Zeil spoke with a cleaver smile, “You didn’t think I was that naive… did you.”
Surprised, Lucifer opened his eyes to see that the blade was dug into the ground next to his head as Zeil stepped back and spoke, “You are my darkness… I am your light. If I kill you… I vanquish my darkness, but then I remain unbalanced. That isn’t the will of the Mage of Zebrica.”
As Zeil stepped back, Lucifer’s wounds healed as he picked himself up from the ground as he smiled, “Then… that’s your answer? You choose to end your final trial with that?”
Zeil nodded, “I do…”
Lucifer chuckled as he replied, “Then congratulations Sir Zeil, Master Zeil, whatever title you want to call yourself… You are the first Changeling Mage of Zebrica.”
Zeil nodded, “Considering what I went through, it was tempting to just kill you and be done, but I remembered something. I remembered that, in all this, I was reminded of a few things. To have a strong will, to remember my light, and to know that even if I don’t like the outcome, I must strive for balance.”
Lucifer nodded, “Yes, and that includes within yourself. Funny, I’ve never seen any mage discover that lesson during the final trial.”

As Zeil stood, the surroundings once again changed back to the massive clear lake that was once a civilization. As the two stood on the water’s surface in the center of the lake, Lucifer looked out towards the mountains as he smiled, “It is a shame that such pain took place at a setting as beautiful as this. Despite the bad memories, I always loved this place. The clear sky and mountains reflecting themselves on the water, the vast lake so calm and tranquil. it’s hard to believe a civilization died just below its surface. Or that the same civilization murdered over a thousand innocent souls.”
Zeil looked at the scenery as he nodded, “It’s truly horrible that… so many suffer for a pointless cause.”
Lucifer nodded, “It didn’t start pointless, but the means did not justify the end.”

As they looked at the sight, Zeil asked, “Do you regret it?”
Lucifer shook his head, “My darkness says no… but you are my light, so answer…” He looked to Zeil, “Do I?”
Although the question seemed odd to ask, Zeil could feel the answer as if it was a part of him as he replied, “No… what you did, you did for the good of what could have been a great kingdom. But… you still feel you over reacted and wish that rather than destroying the entire race, that you could have only killed the queen instead. Despite the fact that… you truly loved her… even now many centuries later.”
Lucifer smiled, “Then you truly embraced your darkness… good. Now, to make it official.”
Lucifer turned to him as he spoke, “Stand ready Mage Zeil… this will feel odd at first, but I promise it will make sense in the end.”
Confused, Zeil stood in front of Lucifer as the Titan placed his hoof onto the surface of the water in front of him as a ripple in the water’s surface started spreading outward from where he was standing. As the water’s reflected mountains became distorted the Tome of the Mage rose from the depths as the pages once again tore from the book and began orbiting Lucifer. Then with the first page leading the rest, the string of flying pages broke away from Lucifer as they instead began orbiting Zeil.

With the ring of pages flowing around Zeil, he started to feel a strange sensation as the pages started emitting a bluish glow. Shortly after the glowing pages combusted into a blue flame before dissolving into a bluish light that stopped orbiting Zeil and started flowing into his eyes. Immediately Zeil was bombarded with visions of spells, skills, and knowledge, as well as faces. Friends, Families, enemies and even lovers seemed to fill his mind until the visions faded with the last of the flowing light as it entered Zeil’s eyes and vanished into his pupils. As soon as the light vanished, Zeil fell to the water’s surface as he laid exhausted for a few seconds before picking himself up and speaking, “I… I could see it every spell in the tome and what it did… and not just that. I could see them… their lives, all of them. The memories and experiences of… every mage to hold this very tome. And also…” He looked to Lucifer, “Your’s…”
Lucifer nodded, “To be the mage means you must know all about the past mages. Their skills, their knowledge, their accomplishments, and their failures. Knowing everything about the past mage means that now, you are the greatest mage of all, and when the next mage takes your place, he will be even greater, since, he will know all about you in addition with the rest. With the knowledge shared by every mage, you will have all you need and more to hold the tittle responsibly and proficiently. I hope, you hold it well.”

With his mind sifting through what he just learned, as he spoke, “I don’t see, Mage Mugi… I'm guessing… since he failed in his final trial. His memories were never recorded?”
Lucifer nodded, “Yes… Mage Mugi wasn’t a weak mage if you should know. In fact he defeated me in only three moves… but… in his final move. He impaled me… and killed me.”
Zeil was surprised, “He killed you?”
Lucifer nodded, “In order to leave this world and return to Zebrica, you will require focus from your whole self. Your light, and darkness. In his haste he took my life, and with it, sealing his fate to forever be trapped here. If he were whole, not only could he return to the real world, his body could also sustain itself in stasis till his return. But without his darkness to balance his mind, that was impossible. All he could do, was sit her in his mental prison, until his body finely failed on him. Though painless as it was for him, being imprisoned here was worse than death in my eyes. To sit and ponder your last mistake for almost a decade… I couldn’t imagine a worse fate.”
Zeil nodded, “I see.”

Trying to change the mood of the moment, Lucifer smiled, “Anyways, since you now know all you need to return as the Mage of Zebrica, it is time you return to your body… but first, if you want to say your final goodbyes now is the time.”
Zeil was confused, “Goodbyes?”
Lucifer pointed behind him as Zeil turned to see a number of familiar faces. Supersonic, King Matthias, Kante, and Chief Rafi stood smiling at Zeil as Chief Rafi spoke, “The Rest passed on but, we wanted to see you off… one last time.”
Zeil was confused, “Last time?”
Supersonic trotted to his brother and brohoofed him as he spoke with a smile, “It’s time for us to go, we saw you through your last trial, so it’s time for us to move on… It was good to see you again big brother Zeil. I hope Zecora welcomes you back with open arms.”
Zeil smiled at his brother, “If it’s time for you to move on… then… I hope we can see each other again someday.”
Supersonic smiled, “Better later then sooner. Till then, I'll leave it to our little sister to keep me company.”
Kante shrugged her shoulders as she replied, “Well if this Supersonic character is also your brother, then I guess he is mine too. Just, don’t be shocked if I say Zeil is my favorite.”

Zeil could only chuckle at Kante’s words as King Matthias spoke next, “You did well Sir Zeil… I'm happy to call you my greatest knight… as well as by best friend.”
Zeil nodded before replying, “You gave me a spell in your letter… is that the same one to turn your wife into an alicorn?”
He nodded as Zeil started to ask, “Will it-“
His question was stopped when Matthias held up his hoof and interrupted, “There is only one way to find out… but you will have plenty of time for that later, I think for now… you should return home. To the mare you love.”
Zeil nodded, “Of course, thank you f-“

Before he could finish, Zeil was interrupted when Kante rush to him and hugged him as hard as she could as she spoke, “Brother Zeil… thank you for everything. I'll, I'll miss you.”
With tears building in her eyes, Zeil hugged her back as he replied, “You saved me once before… now I'm in your debt for two lives.”
She shook her head, “How about, we call it even.”
Zeil smiled, “I’d like that.”
That said Kante stopped hugging him as she wiped away her tears and spoke with authority, “Brother Zeil… Mage Zeil… may good fortune smile upon you.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “And upon you… Sister Kante.”
Kante backed away until she was next to King Matthias as the king spoke, “Goodbye Sir Zeil. I wish you luck in returning to your beloved.”
Zeil could only smile, as King Matthias, Supersonic, and Kante disappeared all at once as if it were in a blink of an eye.

With his friends all passed on, Zeil looked to Chief Rafi as he spoke, “So… This is it… isn’t it? This is truly the last time we will speak?”
Chief Rafi nodded, “Yes, I’ve seen you though most of your journey, but… its time I pass on too. A spiritual guide is only useful should he have one to guide, but from here on,” He gestured towards Lucifer, “Your other self will be here to help you. A good trade is I say so myself, a chief for a titan?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Then… I guess this is goodbye.”
Chief Rafi nodded, “It is… Be sure to watch over my youngest sister. Though she is quite skilled in magic, Zecora still needs you by her side.”
Zeil nodded, “Then I'll do everything I can to protect her.”
Chief Rafi nodded, “I know you will… May good fortune smile upon you Mage Zeil of the Black Sand.”
Zeil nodded, “And upon you, Chief Jumb Rafi of the Western Tribe.”

As that was said, Chief Rafi vanished for the very last time, as Lucifer approached and spoke, “Now that that is done… its time you return to the Northern Tribe… Are you ready?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “First… to finally answer your question from earlier… If… if I return to Equestria… and Zecora turns me away?”
Lucifer was intrigued, “Yes?”
Zeil continued, “If she turns me away… I'll happily accept it, and return here… to the mage’s home…”
Lucifer was curious, “You will live in exile?”
Zeil nodded, “Though it wasn’t in my control, I did leave here… and I’ve taken over six years trying to get back to her. So if she is to hate and despise me for that… then I'll balance it by leaving her to live her life, without me.”
Lucifer smiled, “That’s an interesting way to look at it… though… I would look at it defiantly.”
Zeil gave him an intrigued look as Lucifer repeated an earlier statement, “I’d say that if she truly loved you as much as you love her, then she would never turn you away. After all that is an optimistic way of looking at it… right? But then, there is the filly from that photo…”
Zeil smiled, “I have an idea about that, currently it’s only in theory, but… if it works… then that problem is already solved.”
Lucifer nodded “Then I'll leave that decision in your hooves.” He held out his hoof, “Ready?”
Zeil reached out and placed his hoof against Lucifer’s as he replied, “Ready.”
As that was said, a blinding light was seen overshadowing them both as Lucifer’s voice spoke, “Then let us return as one… The Mage of Zebrica.”

As the bright light shined, Zeil squinted his eyes as he realized the light was the sun shining in through a hole in the ceiling of the old wooden shelter. As Zeil turned to shield his eyes from the sun, he quickly realized that his hooves couldn’t move as he looked down to see tree vines had grown into the hut and across his body as he mumbled, “What… vines, are these my- no these are natural grown vines from outside. I guess, six month is enough for them to grow over me.”
Struggling to free himself, Zeil pulled and tugged at the vines until he was finally able to break free from the meditative state that they held him in. After breaking free, Zeil stretched his hooves as he looked at his surroundings. The hut didn’t change much since he started his meditation aside from the vines that had grown down from the ceiling and covered him. With the temperature still warm Zeil spoke, “I guess… I may have been gone longer then six months this time… a year maybe… it seems the seasons didn’t change at all. Trotting to his saddlebag, he looked through his things as he took all the food out and tossed it aside, “Rotten… I assumed it would be… lucky I packed a corn seed for this… one rapidly grown stalk will give me enough food to return to the Northern Tribe.”
Doing as he said, Zeil trotted outside and used the one corn carnal he had along with a rapid growing potion and grew the seed high enough to get a few ears of corn from it. After placing the new food in his bag, Zeil put on his cloak paid the last respects to Mage Magi’s grave then set out for the Northern Tribes.

The very next day back in the Northern Tribes, Chief Basarum was being led through the tribe as Zera skipped along happily, “This way husband, I need you to wait right over here.”
Annoyed by her unusually giddy attitude, Chief Basarum asked, “Zera what is the meaning of this?”
Zera gave him an annoyed look, “Must I have a reason to enjoy some quality time with my husband?”
Chief Basarum gave her a suspicious look, “What are you up to?”
Zera sighed, “I'm only trying to get you out of the temple. You’ve worked so hard lately, and I want you to understand that there is more to the tribe then just running it.”
Chief Basarum looked through the village at the working zebra as he nodded, “I suppose there is… my apologies, thing have been quite busy since the trade route to Spring Haven was established.”
As the two arrived at the very edge of the village, Zera paused as she spoke, “Well… here should be fine. Wait right here.”
Chief Basarum was confused, “Wait… for what?”
She smiled, “You’ll see… I'll be right back.”

Leaving him confused, Zera trotted back into the village as Chief Basarum watched her leave, “Why is she so excited today?... perhaps she saw something in this peaceful day.” He sat down as he looked through the village then panned his eyes to the sky, “I suppose it is quite peaceful isn’t it? The sky is partly cloudy with a beautiful sunshine, the tribe is working peacefully… it’s as if… all is in perfect harmony.”
“Or balance…”
After hearing the statement, Chief Basarum turned to the voice, “I couldn’t have said it better my se-…”
he paused when he saw who spoke, “M-Mage Zeil?”
Zeil put the hood on his cloak down as he spoke, its good to see you Chief, I'm sure it’s been a while.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes it has… I can assume since you’re here… you finished your final trial?”
Zeil nodded as Chief Basarum continued, “Then… Welcome back… Mage Zeil. I’d say stay a while but… I'm sure you kn-”

Before Chief Basarum could finish his sentence, Zeil was surprised as Zera rushed in and hugged Zeil as she spoke, “Mage Zeil! It’s great to see you… I was worried the vision I had this morning was too good to be true. Yet here you stand alive and well.”
Zeil patted her on the back as he replied, “Of course I am… and I'll let you know that… I found Mage Magi.”
Chief Basarum spoke, “I see… so, was he?...”
Zera stopped hugging Zeil as he nodded, “I'm afraid so… he passed a long time ago. I properly laid him to rest.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Then it’s good that you found him. You are one of few that I can fully trust to lay him to rest respectfully.”
Zera nodded, “Yes but enough about that… how have you been? Was the final trial as hard as it seemed?… Why not stay for dinner, You look skinny have you been eating well these past three years?”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “I'm fine I’ve been meditating fo- Wait… Three years?”

Surprised, Zeil looked to Chief Basarum as he nodded, “Yes… Slightly more actually, but yes its been over three years since you left.”
Zeil sat down in shock as he spoke, “I knew a lot of time passed, I was thinking a year at most, but… three?”
Lady Zera nodded, “Yes, well… perhaps not to dwell too hard on it. By the way… I decided to make this for you.”
Lady Zera held out a saddlebag as Zeil took it and looked inside as she spoke, “It has a few potions you may need as well as some ingredients, food, and the Tome of the Mage… the one we received from Mage Magi, not the one you brought us.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “That tome will stay here with us. Since you will eventually bring the tome back in the past, we should keep the one from the future so that it can be passed to the next mage.”
Rather than taking the saddlebag, Zeil just sat it down and transferred some things over to the bag he was already wearing as he nodded, “Sound understandable, just be sure to keep it safe till then.”

Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “Yes well… there is something we must do now… now that, you are back and… that you are the mage.”
Zeil looked at Chief Basarum as the chief stood with authority, “Mage Zeil, since you have completed your final trial, you are now recognized and respected as the Mage of Zebrica. And as the mage, you are hereby Banished from the Northern Tribes and all tribes of Zebrica. Though your name, title, and position will always be respected and recognized amongst the tribe, you cannot be permitted to live amongst us in fear that your balance will shift one way, or the other. Should you need to return to maintain balance, you will be welcomed and herd. But only if your duties as mage require it. Do you understand these restrictions?”
Zeil nodded, “Chief Basarum, I hear and recognize your words. And I agree, it is time I leave the tribe.”
Lady Zera spoke, “Just so you know… though you leave the tribe, you will always be recognized as a brother here, even if we should deny your existence to others. After all… you are off to see a sister are you not?... Zecora?”
Zeil nodded, “I am…”
Chief Basarum spoke, “Then hurry colt, she waiting there for you.”

Zeil looked to Chief Basarum and smiled, “I will… thank you Chief Basarum. For everything.”
Lady Zera hugged him one last time as she spoke, “When you see Zecora… tell her we are happy she found her own path.”
Zeil hugged her back as he nodded, “I will, thank you Lady Zera,”
Lady Zera stopped hugging him as she spoke with a serious tone, “Head north until you reach the Storm kingdom. There you will meet with a familiar face who will see you safe passage to Equestria. Also, I hear the kingdom is imbalanced, and your presence alone will be enough to fix it… so long as you try to be patient while there.
Zeil gave her a curious look as he asked, “Did you see that in my future?”
She shook her head, “I did not, as you know I cannot see the future of the Mage of Zebrica… but… like many in the Northern Tribes, I have a spiritual guide myself… and by the way, he thanks you for laying him to rest.”
Knowing who she meant, Zeil smiled, “It was a pleasure, to help a fellow mage.” He put the hood up on his cloak “Chief Basarum, Lady Zera, thank you both, and may good fortune smile upon you.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “And upon you too, Mage Zeil.”

That said, Zeil smiled as he turned away and started trotting out of the village. As he left Lady Zera stepped to her husband side as they watched him leave as Zera smiled, “It was good to see him again… even if it was brief.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Oh, I forgot… I told him that when he finished the final trial, I would tell him how Zee Zee… um Died.”
Zera looked to her husband and smiled, “Died? He still believes that?”
He chuckled, “I guess so… but… it doesn’t matter now. He will find out the truth eventually.”
She smiled as she leaned against him, “So… are you sure about him?”
Chief Basarum gave her a funny look, “Sure? I guess it wouldn’t matter since he finished his trials and already became the Mage.”
She shook her head, “Not that… I'm talking about… Are your sure about him… and our daughter?”

Chief Basarum looked back to the leaving mage who was just leaving view as he replied, “My little Zee Zee… she’s all grown up now.” He sighed, “I’m still trying to forgive the outside world for convincing her to stay and not return home like I wanted… but… if she will be there, with someone like him?... then I can look passed it. Besides, how much he has risked crossing the world and facing all the trials and tabulation of becoming the mage… all for Zecora? Makes me proud to call him my future son in law.”
Lady Zera smiled as she turned away and started trotting into the village, “I couldn’t agree more. Also, I for one am ready to meet my future granddaughter.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Yes I- wait… what?”
On the horizon, Zeil trotted north as he smiled, “I'm coming home Zecora, and this time… I won't let anything stop me.”

Bk13/Ch1 The Storm Kingdom

Bk13/Ch 1
The Storm Kingdom
(Year 09, Month 10, Day 01)

The dark overcast sky hung over the city of Thunderstroke the capital city of the Storm Kingdom. Although the city seemed gloomy with the overcast, Zeil felt a sense of peace as he stood in a long line outside the city’s massive walls waiting to be called to enter the city. The capital city’s, walls towered over thirty feet in height with ten feet in thickness leaving the top of the massive walls as a walkway for the many guards who patrolled the area. At first Zeil was confused with the amount of security the city held, however after remembering the talk of the former storm king and his conquest to invade the world, it seemed natural that the current king would be somewhat worried that other nations would retaliate. With this thought in mind, Zeil became next in line to enter the city as a storm guard looked at him and spoke with a strange gurgling sound that Zeil was able to understand and replied, “My name is Zeil, I'm just passing through on my way to Equestria. I won't cause any trouble.”

The guard nodded and wrote down on the clipboard as he replied with his gurgly voice then directed Zeil through the gates before waving the next resident in line to enter. Taking that as his que to enter, Zeil trotted passed the guard and started to cross under the massive gate. The gate was just as thick as the surrounding walls with portcullis on both the front and back of the structure leaving a ten foot area between the two. As Zeil marveled at the impressive size of the archway, he didn’t notice that the stone path he was trotting on had a small area where the stone changed color to a yellowish hue before proceeding with its usual worn cobble grey roads. Without seeing the yellowish stone, Zeil continued trotting through, however as soon as he stepped onto the stone, he felt a strange feeling as he looked down and immediately knew what it was, “Everstone?”
Before he could do anything, Zeil’s hoof started changing back to his reformed changeling appearance as the change spread over his body until he was fully changed to his real form.

As soon as he held his full changeling form, a storm guard pointed at his new form and yelled with an order that could only be assumed as a cry to arrest him. Almost immediacy, the portcullis on both sides of him fell down and crashed onto the ground leaving Zeil trapped within the archways of the gate. Confused, Zeil looked around as a door in the center of the archways open as a number of guards rushed into his area and tackled Zeil to the ground before holding him in place as they bound and cuffed his hooves and torso. Stuck on the ground, Zeil struggled slightly as a small pig-like storm beast guard approached as he smiled and spoke, “Aw yea! Thought you could pull a fast one on us didn’t you changeling? We aren’t as dumb as we look.” He looked to his guards, “Take him to interrogation and notify the commander, I can't wait to break him.”
With that order, the surrounding storm guards dragged Zeil away without giving him the chance to say or do anything.

Later Zeil was sitting at a table in a small enclosed room with the same short guard as the smaller storm beast spoke, “So let me get this straight… your telling me, that you aren’t here to sneak into the kingdom, and that you don’t have a queen at all right?”
Zeil sighed, “Yes… for the hundredth time. That is the truth… I'm not a part of a swarm, I have no interest in this kingdom, and even if I did, I don’t have a queen to report anything to. I'm just a changeling passing through to get to Equestria… that’s it.”
The small creature replied, “Sure… whatever you say Zeil, if that’s even your real name. You can say whatever you want, but we both know that you’re here to steal our secrets, then to direct your queen on our weakest place to attack so you can take over our kingdom. Well it isn’t going to work so you better forget that plan.”
Zeil gave him a dull look, “Wow… and I thought I was slow to learn.”

As that was said, the door to the interrogation room opened behind Zeil as the short gaurd looked behind him as he quickly stood in nervousness and spoke, “Oh, Commander Tempest… You’re here… I didn’t think you would care to deal with this incident.”
Zeil turned around and looked with surprise. The commander that entered the room wasn’t a storm beast like all the guards, in fact she was a Unicorn Mare with a midnight purple coat, a reddish mane, a broken horn, and a look that could intimidate even the toughest stallion. Though Zeil could easily hide his intimidation he still felt uneasy around the threatening mare as she replied, “Lieutenant Grubber... You report a changeling sneaking unto our city and expect me to ignore it?”
Grubber replied, “Well… you don’t have to bother with this problem at all. I'm getting into his mind as we speak.”
Zeil replied, “No he’s not…”
Grubber continued, “Already I can feel he is about to break and admit his guilt.”
“No I won't…”
Grubber shrugged his shoulders with pride, “I bet, he regrets dealing with a mind as cleaver as mine.”
Zeil smiled in hopelessness, “Oh the fantasy world you must live in… Ignorance truly is bliss isn’t it?”

Tempest trotted past Zeil and around the table as she replied, “If it’s all the same… it would still be better to interrogate him myself.”
With a careless expression, Tempest stepped to the front of the table as she sat down and looked at the clipboard, “So… Zeil. Says here you’re on your way to Equestria. Is that right?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, that’s right.”
Grubber spoke, “Better start telling the truth changeling… Commander Tempest isn’t one to lie to.”
Tempest spoke next, “As much as I see the appeal of Equestria being your destination… I find it hard to believe that you wouldn’t know the law of the Storm Kingdom.”
Zeil was confused, “Law?”
She nodded, “Changelings aren’t allowed in the kingdom. Its an old law set by the former Storm king, but the current king still abides by it.”

Zeil nodded as he replied with an accepting tone, “Seems like an outdated law, but if it’s a law then I guess I'm at fault. If you let me go, I will leave and you won't seem me again.”
She smiled as she shook her head, “Its not that simple… by crossing the kingdom’s border, you broke the law and would be reprimanded for the action… but by trying to sneak into the capital city… that is a capital crime.”
Zeil shook his head, “I wasn’t trying to sneak into the city.”
She repleid with a carless tone, “Is that so?...”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, I was just passing through on my way t-“
“it says here that your species was a Zebra…”
Zeil was confused, “What?”
She held up the clipboard, “Right here… on the ledger for crossing into the city. Says your name was Zeil, that you were a zebra, and were on your way to Equestria.”

Looking at the clipboard Zeil replied, “I didn’t write that… I only crossed the gate int-“
“When you crossed the gate, you were disguised as a zebra correct?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes bu-“
She interrupted again, “And when acknowledge as such you didn’t correct the gate guard did you? Nor did you even attempt to tell him what your Species was… right?”
Knowing where this was going, Zeil replied, “No… I didn’t.”
Tempest stood up as she repleid, “Then, you attempted to infiltrate the city as a spy. Now you can either admit to this crime or deny it… but no matter what you say. The evidence speaks for it all.”
Zeil sat trying to think of something to say in his defense as Grubber chuckled, “Aww SNAP! She got you right where she wants you! Now ready to admit your guilt and tell us who your queen is?”
Zeil gave Grubber an angry look, “I serve no queen.” He looked to Tempest, “I have no hive, and I'm only here trying to pass through. I mean you and the rest of this kingdom no harm, and I want to keep it that way.”

Tempest smiled as she trotted passed him, “And it will stay that way… after all, your crime is obvious, and whether you’re telling the truth or not, we got you red hoofed. Or light blue as your changeling appearance looks.”
As she started to reach for the doorknob to leave she looked to Grubber, “Take him to the Bastille and place him in the heavy security tower. The crime is treason and his execution is set for the end of the month.”
Grubber smiled, “You got it commander.”
Before she could leave, Zeil spoke with his back to her in a dark tone that caused her to pause, “Commander Tempest… just a warning… My goal is to reach Equestria, and that is what I intend to do no matter the obstacle in my path.” He turned to her and gave her an angry look, “Don’t become an obstacle…”

With an eyebrow raise, Tempest replied, “I'll keep that in mind.”
As Tempest held her less then concerned expression, the mare left the room and closed the door behind her. However, as soon as the door shut, she mumbled, “What was that… he himself didn’t seem all that intimidating but… why do I feel so… worried. I must report this immediately.”
With her next action known, tempest trotted out of the building in haste as she approached the carriage waiting outside and spoke, “Take me to the castle now. I must speak with the king.”
Back in the interrogation room, Zeil sat as a few guards entered the room, placed his possessions in his saddlebag, then dragged him to a caged carriage as they tossed him inside and rode towards the coast to the prison Tempest spoke of.

As the metal barred jail carriage Rolled through the city, Zeil looked at the multi raced city residents that took the time to observe him as the carriage rolled towards its destination. With his mind on his situation Zeil mumbled quietly to himself, “They are going to lock me in a cell just for being a changeling. Well, it’s a good thing they don’t know who I really am.”
Zeil raised his hoof slightly from the carriage as a tiny vine started growing from the shadow his hoof casted as he continued, “The ever stone doesn’t effect my mage ability, I'll just free myself before we get to the prison the-“
He paused as Zeil felt something familiar coming from the citizens of the city. Confused Zeil mumbled, “Wait… I know that aura… a hippogriff?”
Zeil looked around till his eyes met with a cloaked figure in the surrounding herd. However the figure didn’t recognize him in his changeling form as Zeil mumbled, “Jim?”
With no concern, the cloaked hippogriff turned away and trotted into the crowed as Zeil mumbled, “What is he doing here… does that mean?”
He looked back at the vine he grew under his hoof before pulling it from the wooden floor and tossing it off the cart, “If Jim is here… then I need to know more before I act… maybe that’s what Lady Zera meant by being patient.”

Back at the castle in the center of Thunderstroke, Tempest wasted no time as she exited the carriage she arrive in and trotted into the castle to see the king. With every guard opening the doors to every corridor she passed through, it wasn’t long before the doors to the throne room were opened for her as she entered and looked upon the empty throne at the front of the room. Annoyed, Tempest looked at the empty throne for a second before looking to a guard in the corner of the room as she spoke, “You there? Where is his excellency?”
The storm beast replied with a grumbling voice as Tempest replied with an annoyed tone, “If he is speaking with a visitor, why is he in his study and not on his throne?”
The guard could only shrug his shoulders in confusion as she sighed, “How is he supposed to be taken seriously if he won't even follow the simplest- fine… I'll go see him.”

With an Irritated sigh, Tempest left the throne room and continued higher in the castle until she finally reached the kings royal study. As she approached the doors, the two guards outside stood their ground as she spoke, “I'm here to see his Excellency.”
One guard spoke with its grumbling voice as she understood, “I know he is with a guest, but that’s no reason to keep me out… open the door.”
The storm beast grumbled again as she replied, “Either let me in or I will let myself in, and trust me… you won't like that one bit…”
As that was said, Sparks of electricity started jumping from her broken horn as the nervous guard stepped aside and opened the door for her to enter. Inside the study, The storm king who was a young unicorn with a cerulean coat and slightly darker blue mane sat at a desk as he spoke to the visitor who was an elderly Ibex, “So let me get this straight… you come to request that your village, which was once a kingdom, be declared independent once again and separate from the Storm Kingdom… is that right?”

The elderly Ibex nodded, “Yes my king… we were once a great kingdom independent from the Storm Kingdom and we wish to be so once more.”
The king stood from his desk as he approached a large map that was on the wall which showed the entirety of his kingdom. As he looked at the place the Ibex spoke of, he spoke, “The western mountains… I remember when all beyond that was another kingdom… is that were you want your border separated?”
The Elderly Billy spoke, “Yes… back when your father t-“
Before he could finish his statement, the king’s head turned to glare at the ibex out of the corner of his eye as the ibex saw this and corrected himself, “Back when the former king took our lands… he executed our king and queen and left us without a ruler, then he claimed our kingdom as his own and merged them together. We humbly request that our home be made independent once more. We ask for no more land than we had prior, we only ask to be free to govern ourselves.”

The king trotted back to his desk as he replied, “Back when the former Storm King died, I as his adopted heir, chose to give the kingdoms claimed in his conquest back to their former rulers so long as they still had a tendency to rule. Your nation had no king or queen to rule, which is why I kept it so… what do you intend to do about this?”
The Ibex repleid, “We wish to nominate our own ruler. With no heir to the former king or queen we know it seems odd to request such a thing, but we feel it’s in the king’s best interest to see to his subject’s highest hopes. And this is my home’s highest hope.”
The king spoke with a dark tone, “Is it also in the king’s best interest, to subdue or eliminate any subject who wish to ignore or abandon his rule?”
The ibex elder immediately felt nervous as he felt at a loss of words to the threatening statement. However the tension was soon broken when Tempest who was standing in the door way cleared her throat enough to break the silence as the king looked to his commander and sighed before sitting at his desk, “But… that is the rule of the former king, not I… if you select a ruler and have him come before me, I will consider accepting this request. However, I will be strict with my ruling and probably place your kingdom on a probationary state before allowing the new king to take complete control. How does that sound.”

Grateful the elderly Ibex smiled as he bowed in respect, “Oh thank you King Typhen… I promise you will not regret this. I and my village are eternally grateful for this.”
The king smiled, “Just choose one who has your best interest in mind. I want a king who sees his subject’s wellbeing first and foremost, if he has even a glint of selfishness in him, I will deal with him personally.”
The Ibex started tearing up as he replied, “Of course, and thank you again for this… you have no idea how happy this makes me feel to see my village free.”
The king smiled, “Then you may go home with news of a successful pilgrimage. Just don’t squander this opportunity to impress me.”
Grateful the ibex bowed a few more times before turning and leaving the room as Tempest shut the door behind him as she spoke, “Seems you are fitting in as the whole merciful king that you wanted to be. If the former king could see you now, he would roll over in his grave.”

King Typhen gave her a careless look as he replied, “Good… I hope I'm everything he didn’t want me to become. That stupid fool and his idiotic ambitions for power… I'm glad he is dead. I only wish I could have killed him myself.”
Tempest replied, “If you were there, I would have given you the chance.”
He smiled, “I'm sure you would. By the way… why did you come to see me? I'm sure settling border disputes weren’t your original intentions.”
Tempest spoke properly, “Excellency, I came to see you about the incident at the southern gate.”
The king nodded, “I heard… a changeling was caught trying to infiltrate the city. I assume he was caught and interrogated… though I would expect like the last few, he refused to tell us about his hive or queen.”
Tempest replied, “He says he isn’t a part of any hive and that he belongs to no queen.”
Typhen chuckled, “An obvious lie?”
Tempest hesitated, “Actually… something tells me he was truthful.”
Typhen was curious, “Really? A changeling without a hive or queen… never heard of such a thing myself. I'm assuming you charged him with treason and sent him to the Bastille regardless?”
She nodded, “I did… but…”

As she thought about how to word her next sentence, King Typhen could see the unease in her expression as he spoked, “But? What is it Tempest?”
She replied, “Something about him seems… unsettling.”
He was concerned, “Unsettling? How so?”
“When I left him, he gave me a subtle threat but… the look in his eyes when he said it… made me feel… uneasy.”
King Typhen was surprised, “Uneasy? You? What did he say?”
She replied, “He said he was willing to defeat any obstacle in his path, and warned us not to become an obstacle. But it wasn’t what he said that worried me… it was the look in his eyes when he said it. The look he had… was one who has seen death and battle before. And… was experienced enough to back up his own words.”
The king felt concerned, “So… you’re saying that if you two fought he would be an actual threat?”
Tempest nodded, “If we faced each other, either he would win easily… or we would kill each other in the fight.”

Now King Typhen felt uneasy with the statement as he thought to himself, “Really… then… It may be better to arrange a meeting with him so I can see for myself.”
Tempest shook her head, “I would suggest avoiding that. It would be unwise to put yourself at risk with the likes of him.”
He shook his head, “If this changeling is strong enough to make you feel uneasy, then I would like to meet him myself. After all, I trust you with my very life Fizzy, if he makes you feel unsure, then I want to know what we are up against.”
Tempest shook her head as she repleid, “If you order it, then I can't argue excellency… but I have asked you before to call me Tempest.”
The king gave her a sympathetic look as he nodded, “Of course… sorry, for a second there, I forgot that those days were long behind us.”

Wanting to avoid the subject Tempest turned away as she spoke, “Understood, I will arrange a meeting for you to meet with the changeling.”
The king nodded as he stood from his desk, “Good, I’d prefer tomorrow, it’s a little late today but I would like it to be soon.”
She nodded as she started to leave the room, “Understood your excellency.”
As she started to leave the room, the king trotted back to the large map again this time focusing on another part of the kingdoms border, at a small crossed out name that said Galendale.
Though he assumed she had already left, his actions were noticed by Tempest as she stopped at the doorway and watched for a second as the king raised his hoof and ran it across the name in despair. Seeing this she sighed as she spoke, “It was a long time ago, you need to look past it.”

Nodding at her words, the king replied, “I know… but that doesn’t make it any less painful… nor will it bring any of them back.”
He looked back to the map in sadness as Tempest looked away from the king’s sad expression as she replied, “I wasn’t there when it happened… the day the storm king invaded was the day I left, and when your parent chose to rebel nine years later… I was in training to be an officer for the storm king.”
He nodded, “I know… and I never blamed you for that. I never called you a traitor or accused you of joining an enemy. If anything, we betrayed you first. We were your friends… and when your horn broke and you lost control of your magic, we abandon you out of fear. We dared to call you our friend, then turned our back on you at the first sign of danger, when we really should have helped you and looked passed it.”

She nodded as she realized something, “Wait… the day your parents died by the Storm King… is that why you decided to give that ibex and his village their independence? Because he killed their monarch too?”
The king didn’t immediately respond, instead he looked at the map and hesitated for a few seconds before dropping the subject entirely, “Tomorrow Tempest… I want to meet this changeling tomorrow.”
She could only smile at his failed attempt to dodge the question as she replied, “Whatever you say… Prince Savean.”
Smiling at her words, the king continued to look at the map as Tempest left the room with a smile on her face. After his soldier was out of the room, King Typhon spoke, “Prince Savean… Fizzypop Barrytwist, seems we both have names we left behind.”

Far on the other side of the city, right on the highest cliffs of the coast, Zeil’s Jail carriage arrived at a massive fortress like prison that sat right on the cliffs with one of the five towers standing right on the cliff’s edge. As Zeil was lead into the large pentagon shaped prison, he was guarded closely as the guards led him through many corridors and bar like gates that were each locked behind him. Finally he reached the entrance to the tower that was closest to the sea as he stopped behind yet another cell like door as Grubber was standing in wait as he smiled, “You should feel honored changeling, Commander Tempest thinks you’re a big enough threat to make me watch you through processing. With me on guard you won't be able to get away with any funny business.”
Zeil gave him a dull look, “Yay…”
hearing his sarcasm, Grubber replied, “Don’t worry, you will be taken care of real nicely here… it’s been almost three days since a guard beat a prisoner to death. So maybe you will be fine till your execution.”
As that was said, Zeil was lead through the gate and up a few flights of stairs until he reached a floor that was a long corridor of empty cells. As Zeil trotted down this corridor, he saw a walkway that led to the outside balcony with a gallows sitting at the end of the path as Grubber saw his curiosity and smiled, “Looking for the next chapter of your story? Spoiler alert, it’s not a happy ending.”

With no concern Zeil continued to follow as they entered a side room where grubber stepped behind a desk and spoke, “Kay what did he have?”
As that was said, a following guard placed Zeil’s saddlebag on the table as grubber looked through it, “let’s see… a weird book filled with gibberish, a cloak, a dagger… like that will help you.”
He looked at Zeil and pointed at his dashiki that was given to him by the southern chief, “I guess you can keep that weird zebra neck thingy on.”
Zeil spoke, “It’s called a dashiki”
“Right… dishcloth or whatever…”
With that the guard finished looking through the bag then packed it all back as he spoke, “All right, not that it matters. These things will be kept here till after your execution.”

Grubber turned to a wall of lockers as he opened one and placed the bag inside before closing it, “There… now to show you to your Cell. Your gonna like the company, everyone here is so friendly.”
Grubber started sarcastically chuckling at his comment as Zeil was then led back to the stairs. However before reaching the stairwell, Zeil’s changeling appearance all of a sudden changed back into his Zebra form as Grubber spoke, “Oh… looks like the everstone wore off. We’d better fix that.” he looked at another guard, “Go get the neck cuff and be quick about it.”
The guard nodded and broke away from the group as they continued down one flight of stairs, then into a large corridor lined with many cells each with multiple prisoners inside as one of the prisoners looked to Zeil and smiled, “Well well, look what we have here… New meat, and a Zebra at that.”
Adding to the mockery, grubber repleid, “Not a zebra, a changeling.”

Another prisoner spoke as Zeil and the guards made their way through the corridor of cells, “A changeling, Capital punishment.”
more added, “I'll give em’ a week before he breaks”
“I'll take that action.”
“Hey little bugger, you crossed into he wrong city didn’t ya?”
“I wonder if he is a reform or a parasite.”
“That don’t matter, he’ll break all the same, right before he hangs.”
As the room exploded into an uproar of mockery and threats, Zeil paid them no mind as they were led to one of the more quiet cells, as the cell door was opened before Zeil was pushed inside. As Zeil stumbled inside, the cell door was closed behind him as grubber spoke, “Hide it all ya want changeling, you won’t fool us, I don’t know what you’re doing in the Storm Kingdom… but you won’t cause any trouble in here.”
That said, Grubber laughed in a gloating manner as he and the rest of the guards walked back up the corridor as Zeil could only watch them with an annoyed expression, as he sighed, “I knew I should have gone around this kingdom… I don’t know… maybe she read the message wrong.”

At that moment, a familiar voice spoke from the shadowed corner of the cell, “I’d s’pose so… you ain’t much closer to Equestria then last I saw ya.”
Confused, Zeil looked to the corner of the cell to see an elderly pony sitting in the shadow as he spoke in surprise, “C-Captain Sail?... is that you?”
The old white bearded pirate smiled, “Aye it is… ain’t seen ya in a while… how long’s it been lad? Don’t tell me you ain’t made it back to Equestria yet.”
Feeling a little embarrassed Zeil replied, “No… I’m still trying to get there… I had to make a detour to Zebrica… took me a while to get through that though.”

Captain Sail smiled as he replied, “Id guess so… four years? Granted ya picked up a fine dashiki in that time, but taken almost half a decade for a Zebrican vacation isn’t the best use of your time.”
Zeil looked at the Zebrican accessories that he was wearing then rubbed his head as he replied, “I, guess it really has been about four years? Sorry… it’s just… time for me is… a little strange to keep track of.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Is that so?… I s’pose Zebrica wasn’t kind to ya then… or too kind. I can’t manage to remember time on my best days either.
Zeil nodded, “So how long have you been in here?”
Captain Sail replied, “Bout’ a month or so… Got locked up cuz the Storm Prince has a little grudge against pirates since the incident that got his father turned to gravel. Seems a sky pirate I knew was partially to blame, so when he saw I used to be a pirate myself, he locked me up. Took a few of my crew too, ain’t that right lads!?!”
The cell next door replied with depressed tones, “Aye…”
Zeil nodded, “So Mr. Point’s here too?”

All of a sudden, Captain Sail’s expression became sad as he replied, “Actually… no… ya see…”
Zeil could sense his emotions as he guessed what happened, “Oh… I’m sorry to hear that… when did he pass?”
Captain Sail replied, “Bout three years ago… went in his sleep. The stubborn old fool remained my quartermaster till his dying day.”
Zeil nodded, “So… how did Daring take it?”
Captain Sail replied, “She took it like I'd expect. That lass is as tough as nails she is. Barely shed a tear during the entire funeral. But enough about that… I'd think that you ain’t planning on stayin’ in here much longer are ya?”

Zeil shook his head as he looked around the cell, “No… I got to get back to Equestria.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… back to your lass eh? Guessin’ that’s why you still look like a zebra.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… Changeling or not… I know where my loyalty lies.”
As that was said, Captain Sail’s eyes shifted to a cell that was across from theirs as a sailor from his crew sat with his back against the front corner of the cell allowing him to have a perfect view of the corridor leading through the floor. As the sailor looked down the corridor, he looked back to captain sail and nodded in a way to say the coast was clear as Captain Sail smiled as he stood up, “Welp, I’ve been tinkering away at ideas on how to get out of this place so if your willin’ to help, I'll get ya back to Equestria. After all, I still owe you that voyage don’t I? And I’m a stallion of my word.”

Captain Sail held out his hoof to shake the zebra’s as the disguised changeling shook his hoof and smiled, “Then let’s get to it.”
“One problem ‘bout that Capt’n.”
Both looked to Powder Keg in the cell diagonal from theirs as he continued, “With the ship in the rest of the crew’s hooves… how do we get a message out there? Who’s to say its even still in the Storm Kingdom’s waters?”
Confused Zeil looked to Captain Sail as he added, “The ship? Didn’t the Storm Kingdom capture that too?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nope, only a small amount of the crew were ashore when we were ambushed at the tavern. The rest escaped out to sea at the first sign of trouble. But with Jimbo still aboard, I'm sure they are doing what they can to find and contact us.”

Zeil remembered something as he smiled, “That’s right, I sensed Jim in the city when I was on my way here. He was hiding amongst the crowds but I know for a fact it was him… wait… I thought he went with the princess when you got to Equestria.”
Captain sail was confused at first, “What? What are ya- oh wait that’s right, that was four years ago but I do remember it. Jimbo did go ashore with the lass and he did stay with her for about a year, but they now hold a rather… special relationship.”
Zeil was skeptic, “Special?... how?”
Powder Keg laughed, “The darn fool decided that he wanted to come back with us instead of staying in a palace.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Not exactly but not too far off. The lad missed the sea and requested to come back with us when we visited the Hippogriff kingdom. He and his princess are still together… but it’s more of a, I'll see ya when I'm ashore relationship.”
Zeil nodded, “Well that’s good to hear, they seemed so perfect for each other… so Jim would be commanding the ship then?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, as the last officer aboard, he would be in command while the captain’s away. And since I have a rule about if I were caught, no doubt he would be off shore devising a rescue… but since I have a plan of my own, I just need a way to signal him.”

All of a sudden, the prisoner across in the other cell tapped the bars twice as a signal, as Captain Sail silenced himself while both Zeil and the captain watched a few prison guards walk down the corridor between the cells. As the guards approached Zeil’s cell, one opened the cell as two others entered the cell, grabbed Zeil and pinned him against the ground. Knowing there was no real point in struggling, Zeil spoke as he was held down, “Easy, I'm not gonna fight back. There is no point anyways.”
As he was held down, the guard that opened the cell door entered the cell and put a cuff around Zeil’s neck that had an everstone embedded in the middle of it, as the stone made contact with Zeil’s neck and turned him back into his reformed changeling form. After the cuff was locked on, the guard released him as they each left the cell as Zeil rubbed his neck and spoke sarcastically, “What? No goodnight kiss?”

Ignoring his sarcasm, the guards locked the cell and left the area as Captain Sail spoke, “Seems they are worried you will try to escape already.”
Zeil smiled, “No matter, this cuff disables my changling magic, but I have other magic it can't disable. Anyway about the previous subject?”
He looked to the prisoner across the cell as the stallion looked down the corridor then back and nodded in a way to say the coast was clear. Seeing that it was safe to talk, Zeil asked, “What is your plan for getting out of here?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Its already coming together… all we need is a large quantity of rope. Otherwise, we have to wait for the right moment, which should be within the next few weeks.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Rope?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Rope…”
Smiling at his ability to grow vine’s Zeil continued, “I think I can handle that…”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good, since you’re a changeling, your execution should be set for one month from today, as all changelings are. Luckily the best time for us to make our way out of here, will be in two weeks. The Friday after next to be precise.”
Zeil felt there was more to the date then just a simple decision as he asked, “Why? Whats so special about two weeks from now?”
Captain Sail continued with a mischievous smile, “let’s just say… red skies in the morning… sailor’s warning.”

Bk13/Ch2 The Imprisoned Mage

Bk13/Ch2
The Imprisoned Mage
(Year 09, Month 10, Day 02)

The tall storm beast paced in front of the prisoners whilst the ruins of a city burned around them from the recent battle. As he walked the line he stopped in front of a taller unicorn stallion as he smiled, “Well well, if it isn’t the former king of this little smudge of a city. So, you’re the one who gathered these ponies against me and tried to take back your home. I'll admit, I was surprised when my troops had to request reinforcements to fight off a bunch of peace loving ponies. But if you want to face me in battle, its gonna take more than dancing and singing cutesy little songs.”
At that moment, a slightly younger Grubber approached as he spoke, “Um Your majesty? We finished securing the city. What would you like us to do next?”
The Storm king looked to the former king’s wife and foal as he replied, “I'm tired of seeing this town’s name on my map… let’s say we just remove it for good.”
Grubber nodded, “Yes your majesty… but… what about the survivors?”
The king smiled, “What survivors?… they all perished in the battle. Besides, no one will miss these little ponies anyway.”

As that was said the former king’s colt spoke up, “You can't do that!”
The storm king looked to the little cerulean colt as he smiled, “Really? Well watch me closely and you will see I very much can. Face it little pony, unless you have the power to take control. Then you will always remain on the bottom of someone’s foot…”
Laughing at his victory the storm king turned around to walk away as the young colt got angry, “You can't hurt my family… I WON'T LET YOU!!!”
Angry the colt reached for an unsuspecting guard’s sword, drew it, and charged towards the storm king in anger. However as he got close enough to swing, the storm king turned back to him and caught his hoof in midair as he spoke, “Whoa now, you got a lot of courage for such a little prince…”
Picking the colt up by his hoof the storm king smiled, “Ya know for a pampered little pony prince, I wasn’t expecting this much fight in you… you’re determined to save your home aren’t you?” with the colt hanging by his hoof, the storm king took one powerful swing as he punched the colt in his gut with enough force to stun the young foal before dropping him to the ground. Worried, the colt’s father spoke, “Savean! Storm king stop this now! He’s just a colt!”

The King stood over the young colt as he smiled, “Yea… but he is much stronger then your everyday pony. And if his parents had the gall to form a rebellion against me? Then he is of strong stalk… a perfect heir.” He kneeled over the young colt as he spoke, “How about it little pony, you want to rule my kingdom after I'm gone?”
The weak colt gave him an angry glare as he replied, “Over my dead body.”
The storm king smiled, “Well, I like that sound… that is the fire I need in the future king… so…”
With a crooked smile, the storm king kicked the young colt as the power of the attack threw the colt a number of feet before the young foal hit the ground and rolled to a dazed stop. As his consciousness faded, he could hear the storm kings voice as he spoke, “Burn the village and execute the prisoners… but as for this one… lock him in the tower… Treat him nicely though… that’s you future king in the making.”

With those words echoing, King Typhen snapped out of his flashback as he heard a voice, “Excellency?”
Shaking away the bad memory, King Typhen looked to Tempest who was standing behind him as she asked, “You still with us?”
Turning back to where he was looking before, the king looked over his kingdom from the balcony of his study as he replied, “I'm fine… just recalling a nightmare… what is it?”
Tempest replied, “The changeling.”
“Changeling?”
She nodded, “The changeling you asked me to bring to see you?... he’s here.”
The king nodded, “Right, right, that changeling. Bring him here to my study.”
She insisted, “He is waiting for you in the throne room.”
The king replied, “Then he will be easily shown here to my study… if he is what I think he is, then it would be better to see him here anyways.”
She was curious, “What do you mean? What do you think he is?”
The king smiled as he turned back to the doorway and entered the room, “An opportunity. Or… a headache.”

Fifteen minutes later, King Typhen was sitting at his desk in his study as Tempest entered the room, followed closely by the chained Zeil in his changeling form with two guards holding two chains that were connected to his neck cuff. Surprised at what he saw, King Typhen stood from his desk as he spoke “What the?”
Tempest spoke, “King Typhen, the Changeling Zeil as ordered.”
The king spoke with confusion, “Changeling?... him?”
Zeil nodded, “Yea, a changeling… why?”
The king realized his own shock as his expression changed back to an emotionless one as he replied, “Oh… apologies, I don’t think I’ve seen a changeling of your… type before. May I ask? What kind of changeling are you?”
Although Zeil was irritated with his situation, he still replied with only slight disrespect, “A reformed one.”
“Yes… but… I’ve never seen a reformed changeling that was as tall as you with horns like yours.”

Tempest spoke, “Excellency, I’ve seen one like him before. I believe he is referred to as an alpha drone, the dominant of the males I think.”
Zeil nodded, “She is right… I am an alpha drone… and you strike me as surprising also. A kingdom of storm beasts ruled by a unicorn king. Not to mention I heard your father was a storm beast as well.”
The king felt irritation at the comment but he held his own as he replied, “I was adopted by the former king… in all honesty, he was no father to me. But I digress.” He stood up straight, “I am King Typhen of the Storm Kingdom, and I-“
“A lie?”
The king was surprised by Zeil’s unexpected comment as Zeil realized his forced words as he continued, “I apologize, as a changeling we excel in sensing the emotions of those around us. But when you introduced yourself… your emotions despite your held expressions was of… anger and guilt. As if what you said was either false, or… distained.”

Tempest started to get angry as she spoke in a calm response, “Know your place and watch your words carefully changeling, remember who you are talking too.”
King Typhen held up his hoof to silence her, “Now now Tempest… no need to get hostile at a true statement… but before we continue. Do you think you could contain Mr. Zeil on you own?”
Tempest knew where this was going as she replied, “I can… but I wouldn’t do what your th-”
ignoring her, the king interrupted, “Then I think we can manage without extras…” he looked to the guards, “You two are dismissed, wait for us outside and do not enter unless I call for you.”
The two storm beast guards looked to each other in confusion as they shrugged their shoulders and released the chains connected to Zeil’s neck cuff before both leaving the room and closing the door behind them. As soon as they were gone, the king sat back at his desk as he replied to the earlier statement, “You are very perceptive Mr Zeil… and you are right. King Typhen was the name given to me by my adopted father. I never truly liked it, but since it is what the kingdom knows me by, it is easier to keep it then to change it altogether.”

Zeil nodded, “I see, for one who changes his name often, I can understand the confusion.”
The king smiled, “Then we see eye to eye… good. The reason I asked to meet you was because you happen to peak my commander’s intuition. She claims that you are a dangerous prisoner to have.”
Zeil nodded, “Then her intuition is wise. Although this could easily be solved with my release. After all I am wrongfully imprison.”
The king nodded, “Are you?… yet here you stand, after being apprehended in my kingdom, my capital city, a changeling by birth. Since it is clearly the definition of the former king’s law I see no unjust imprisoning here.”
Zeil replied, “Your father’s la-
“Former King… he was no father to me.”
Zeil sighed at the correction, “Former king… his law is out of date and you know it.”

King Typhen nodded as he smiled, “I can see how you assume that… but that law was established after the Canterlot wedding raid a number of years ago to protect the kingdom from infiltrating changeling. Although the existence of the reformed is apparent and the reveal of multiple reformed kingdoms are known. This kingdom still suffers from the backlash of the idiocy that was the former storm king.”
Zeil was confused for a second, “Idiocy?”
King Typhen smiled as he stood from his desk and paced towards the map on the wall as he replied, “Yes, you see, a few years ago, he set out on a massive conquest to spread his kingdom all over the world. First it started with small kingdoms with no proper defenses… then it went to larger kingdoms with mass amounts of resources. Finally, when he discovered the Staff of Sacanas, a titan relic with the power to steal magic from alicorn, he set his sights on the only alicorn left in existence.”
With only two in mind, Zeil replied, “Equestria…”

King Typhen smiled as he replied, “Exactly, he hunted down all the remaining alicorn to steal their magic but… sadly he never heard the story of the king who ruled the world…” he looked at Zeil from the corner of his eye, “Have you, Mr. Zeil?”
Unfamiliar with the story, Zeil shook his head as the king nodded, “Of course you haven’t… because it doesn’t exist. No one soul could ever truly rule the world, it’s a complete impossibility. There are too many races, too many cultures, religions, too many ways of life that conflict with on another making it impossible to rule all with the same ethics, even the almighty titans knew this fact. So when he set his sight on Equestria… those who chose a different way of life did exactly what you’d expect them to do. They rebelled, and stopped him.”
The king trotted away from the map as Zeil nodded, “Interesting… your emotions seem to hold pride in the subject… as if… you had something to do with it. Something to do with the former king’s downfall.”
The king chuckled as he approached his desk and opened one of the drawers and replied, “No, I didn’t, but one can dream can't he?” he pulled out a folder as he sat down and continued, “Anyways… onto why I asked you here. I know you have answered these questions before, but… humor me with answering them yet again. I’d rather hear the answers from your mouth then any of my soldiers.”

Sighing in annoyance Zeil replied, “If you must, it’s not like I have much of a choice.”
The king smiled, “Honesty… that’s a good quality to hold. Anyways first question, why are you here in my kingdom?”
Zeil replied, “I was here to board a ship to Equestria. I'm only passing through and mean no harm to you or anyone here.”
The king nodded, “I see, Next question, who is your Queen?”
Zeil shook his head, “I don’t have a Queen.”
“Really? And yet as a changeling you were born of a queen correct? Which queen is your… mother sort of speak?”
Zeil replied, “We don’t really have a concept of mother or father in our race, but if you mean who gave birth to me. That would be Queen Chrysalis.”
As that was said, Zeil immediately felt a surprised emotion from both tempest and King Typhen as the king replied, “Really? So… your birth hive would be the Changeling Kingdom just outside of Equestria.”
Zeil nodded, “No, I was born elsewhere. The Changeling Kingdom was founded after my birth. But since I serve no queen that would mean that I have no hive.”
Tempest spoke up, “That would explain why you serve no queen at least. No changeling serves Queen Chrysalis anymore. And I doubt they ever will.”

Zeil turned to look at her as he nodded, “The way you speak not only in tells she got what she deserved, it also seems as if whatever happened to her was within your witness.”
She nodded, “Yea I saw it myself, Queen Chrysalis is now a statue in the Canterlot garden.”
Zeil felt a little uneasy about this but he felt it would be better to keep the reason for this feeling to himself as he nodded, “I see.”
King Typhen spoke next, “Anyway onto the next question, where are you coming from? Since you came through the Southern Gate, I can only assume you came from Zebrica.”
Feeling he should keep his mage status to himself for now, Zeil replied, “I did.”
The king continued, “All right, which tribe then?”
Zeil shook his head, “No tribe… I just came from that direction.”
Tempest got irritated, “I would suggest you answer honestly, otherwise I may have to make you answer him.”
Feeling her anger in her stare, Zeil replied with a glare of his own, “Try me… I could use the exercise.”

Feeling an unruly amount of tension in the room, King Typhen spoke up, “Now now Tempest, if that is all he will tell us, then we should let it be. After all if we force an answer with something as medial as torcher, well he would say anything truth or not to get the pain to stop in which case would be untrustworthy and a waste of his and our time.” He pulled a sheet of paper from the folder and close it as he spoke, “Anyways I’ve heard enough… it’s obvious that what Mr. Zeil says is his truth and that he may very well be no threat to the kingdom in anyway… However… he is still guilty of committing a crime and will serve his sentence thusly… unless.”
The king placed the sheet of paper on top of the folder and turned it around so Zeil could see it, “He were to sign this.”
Zeil looked at the paper as he asked, “And what is this?”
The king replied, “Enlistment documents… let me explain. You my changeling friend, are a very interesting character. Your mere presence put my strongest soldier at high alert and that is enough for me to know that you will be a valuable asset to my army. By signing these document, I can guarantee your freedom, in exchange for your services as one my generals. Under Commander Tempest of course.”

Zeil was surprised at both the offer, and at the fact that it was said so casually as if it was planned from the very start. And to make it even more confusing, Tempest seemed to have no real reaction to the offer as Zeil spoke, “So… you’re charging me with treason, unless I join your army? Isn’t that kind of treasonous on your part?”
The king chuckled as he nodded, “Well, kind of. But you see, sometimes the most valuable friends are the most skilled traitors.”
He stood from his desk and trotted to a shelf full of strange artifacts from all over the world, “Myself included… I as the adopted son to a monster, I wanted nothing more than to slit his throat in his sleep. But with his conquest keeping him away for so long, I never truly got the chance. Every few months I would receive little knickknacks from every country he claimed under the Storm Kingdom’s banner. Hoping they would, make me like him more or some crap like that.” he grabbed something from the shelf with his back turned as he continued, “Till… I got this little trinket. A gift from his journey to Equestria, hoof delivered by Tempest herself.”

He trotted back to the desk and placed what looked to be an open hand made out of stone on the desk as he continued with a dark tone, “A gift, a message, and Proof, that the Storm King was dead.”
Although Zeil could tell this was an attempt to intimidate him, it had little effect as Zeil replied, “The Storm king’s hand… Petrified then shattered, seems to be a dark sort of gift, but fitting if you truly despised him.”
The king nodded, “Oh I truly did, but it wasn’t me who killed him, it wasn’t even the ponies of Equestria. His true assassin, is standing right next to you.”
Zeil looked to Tempest who held an unamused expression as the king continued, “You see, Tempest was his top lieutenant. Her power alone allowed him to conquer many kingdoms and she did so, with the promise that he would restore her horn and give her back her ability to perform spells. But, that was a lie. In truth, he couldn’t do that, and he kept her on a leash until he revealed that truth to her. For which, she defeated him, turning him to stone and pushing him from the highest tower in Canterlot.”
Tempest spoke, “It was actually the throne room balcony.”

The king smiled as he nodded to her statement, “No need to argue the details. Fact of the matter is, in that sense, she too is a traitor. So my asking you to join wouldn’t be much different from when I begged her to return as my commander. The only real difference is that if she had denied the position nothing would have come of it. She would say no and go her separate way, while you… would go back to prison and await execution as is the punishment for treason. So… what do you say Mr. Zeil? Will you join my army?”
Zeil knew right away that he had to deny the request for multiple reason. The biggest would be that no nation can own the mage as a soldier in any army. The second was that he needed to return to Equestria to stay, but the most notable reason was that with Captain Sail and a few of his crew locked in the Bastille, he needed to help them escape first and foremost. So with an annoyed sigh he replied, “As Tempting as your offer is… I can only deny it. For my own reasons, I cannot and will not belong to any nation, be that a hive or a kingdom.”

Unhappy with the answer, the king replied, “I see… then I'm afraid I have no choice.”
King Typhen called, “Guards!”
At that moment, the door opened as the two guards that were waiting in the corridor reentered the room as the king closed the folder on his desk and spoke, “Take Mr. Zeil back to the Bastille. Since I have no more use of him, move his sentence up to the Friday after next.” His eyes shifted to Tempest, “I'll see that you will be put in special charge of this execution. I want this done right, understood?”
Understanding the caution, Tempest nodded, “Of course your excellency.”
As Zeil was escorted out of the room he couldn’t help but smile sinisterly at the emotion he was feeling from the king as the king spoke with a concern less tone, “Tempest, allow the guards to return with Mr Zeil on their own, in the meantime could you hand me that contract?”
Feeling a little confused that the king wanted her to give him a document that was only slightly out of his reach tempest approached the paper and picked it up just as the guards left the room completely and closed the door behind them. After the guards were gone, Tempest placed the unsigned contract on the desk in front of the king as she started to speak, “Her you go yo-”

At that moment, the king reached out and grabbed her hoof as he spoke, “Please… stay with me for a little bit… I… I don’t want to be alone.”
Although his expression seemed emotionless, his tone and his trembling hoof said it all… he was terrified. Worried she spoke, “Excellency? You alright?”
“That changeling… if you can even call him that. He… he isn’t what he seems. Every fiber of my being has been scared senseless since the moment I showed him the storm king’s hand.”
She replied, “Well, it was a subtle threat.”
The king nodded as he replied, “Yes… and the look he gave me afterwards… I have only felt the fear from a gaze like that once in my life. The day the storm king took me from my home.”
After a few second of calming down the king sighed as he spoke, “I don’t know what he is planning if anything at all… but I won't let it happen. He entered through the southern gate correct? In zebra form means he probably came from a Zebrican tribe. Send envoys to all tribes in Zebrica. I want to know everything about him. Where he comes from, where he is going, and why. I want every soldier who isn’t doing any pressing matters to look into this. I want them to seek out any and all information they can find about this Zeil from every neighboring kingdom. If he so much as chipped his hoof last month, I want to know where, when, and on what. Got it!”

Confused with how thorough he was being tempest replied, “Maybe you should take it easy your majesty. We can increase security at the Bastille th-“
The king stood and paced in though, “No… no, if we do that then he will know we are on to him. We need this to be as far out of his view as possible. If he gets a hint that we are looking into his true intentions, then he may strike. And… the feeling I got from him. Our prison and army aren’t enough to hold him back. But… do we have an informant in the prison?”
Tempest nodded, “We do, we can have him look into Zeil’s activity if y-”
“Done… give him anything he wants in exchange. Offer him his freedom if need be. I want Zeil monitored and watched closely.”
She nodded as she replied, “Understood. Do you still want his execution moved up?”
King Typhen nodded, “Yes… I would have him killed tomorrow if it seemed nessisary, but I can’t risk him reacting out of haste. The fact that he hasn’t acted yet means he may be trying to be less destructive in his plan. We need to find out if a simple execution is even possible first.”
She nodded, “Yes your excellency, as you said I will see to it personally. Is that all, or do you need me to stay with you a little longer?”
The king sat down and breathed deeply as he replied, “No… no… I'm fine now… just… be careful. And if need be… used these.

The king opened his desk drawer and pulled out a small belt with strange glass spheres with a mysterious green aura inside as he spoke, “You remember these right? It’s what turned the royal alicorn to stone and killed the former storm king.”
She nodded, “Yes I remember. So you want me to turn him to stone if he gets out of line?”
The king nodded, “Yes, then, I don’t care how close it is to his execution. I want you to shatter his body as soon as it’s fully stone. I won't give him the chance to be the threat that we know he is.”
Tempest thought about the situation for a few second. At first she assumed his actions to be a little too much, but after giving it a little thought she could only nod as she replied, “Of course excellency. I'll see it done.”
As she turned to leave the room, he stopped her one last time, “Oh… and fizzy?...”
She paused as the king continued, “Is something happens, and you should find yourself facing him alone… Run… I don’t care if it seems cowardly, I can't lose my only friend.”
Although she wanted to correct him in his previous statement, she knew that his words were fear driven so she decided to just ignore it, “Understood Excellency. I'll be careful.”

A few hours later, Zeil and Captain Sail were sitting in their cell as Captain Sail drew Zeil’s attention to the tiny barred half circle window, “Look out there lad, tell me what ya see.”
Zeil looked out the small barred window as he replied, “The sea and… what’s that above us?”
As Zeil looked at what seemed to be a massive stone awning over the window that stretched over one hundred feet from the tower as captain Sail replied, “The Bastille is a series of five towers, all arranged in a pentagon shape. Each tower is a prison in itself. The two towers on both sides off the gate are processing facilities and barracks for the guards. The towers beside those are the minimal security, and the medium security prisons. We are in the furthest tower from the gate which also happens to be the closest to the sea. The max prison, made special for life sentences and capital punishment. All who are here with us are servin’ a life sentence. Some, with a guaranteed shorter sentence if ya get my drift. And as far as the layout goes, the first floor is storage that we have no access to. The second floor is the mess hall where we eat. Third floor is where we are now, the cells. The fourth floor above us is the… execution floor. Above us, is a number of cells where they move those awaiting execution the day prior and outside, that stone balcony is the gallows. Where they are done away with. And finally above that is the garden and roof.”
Zeil was confused, “Garden?”

Zeil stepped away from the window as Captain Sail smiled, “Aye, In the Bastille everything is maintained by the prisoners. We grow our food, cook our food, clean our clothing and if anything here needs repairing within the walls, we repair it.”
Zeil looked around replied, “Makes since, if the criminals want to eat, they have to work.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, otherwise they get beaten.”
Zeil nodded, “I’ve heard, some guard will beat the prisoners to death.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Occasionally yes. But since we all like to eat, we all choose to work. Sort of a mutual agreement amongst us prisoners.”
Zeil nodded, “Alright, so will this play into the plan any?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Aye it will, in fact we already have the majority of the plan done, we only need a few more preparations first.”
Zeil nodded, “Alright, so what is the plan?”

Captain Sail looked to their lookout across the cells who nodded that the coast was clear as he replied, “Since we have been here, Mr Keg and I have been gathering an assorted amount of items from our tasks in the prison.”
Zeil was skeptic, “What sort of items?”
Captain Sail shrugged his shoulders as he replied, “Oh just a few things, some charcoal from the kitchen, and some saltpeter and sulfur from the garden.”
Zeil smiled, “Gunpowder…”
Captain sail nodded, “You know your alchemy, when it comes to gunpowder, Mr Keg is the master. Since I recruited him to my ship we haven’t needed to buy a single grain. He mixes it all himself. And in very interesting sorts mind you. He even mad it resemble defined elements on occasion for example…” he tapped the mortar between the bricks in the cell as he continued, “Simple, concrete, mortar. So when we had to replace a few bricks in my cell due to a failed escape attempt by the last occupant… well?...”
Zeil understood, “So… the walls are laced with gunpowder.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And a few hollowed out stones filled make nice little bombs to go with it. So that in combination with some rope would allow for an escape worthy of us… but…”
Zeil nodded, “We will need to find a way to contact the Bloody Tide. Without a ship, we will only be jumping into a rough sea.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No lad, we would be jumping onto the jagged rocks below. The rope we need will be primary to get far enough from the coast to reach a ship. But as you said with no ship, we have no escape. First we need to make a sort of rope bridge to the end of the balcony, then we should be able to avoid the rocks… if there is a ship to catch us, that would be even better.”

Zeil thought to himself, “I can handle the bridge… what we need is a way to contact your ship… any ideas? Maybe we co-“
At that moment, a tap was heard as the lookout tapped the bars with his hoof in an attempt to notify them that there were guards coming. As the two silenced themselves a few guards entered the corridor as one by one they began unlocking the cells and waiting for the prisoners to leave as Captain Sail spoke, “Lunch time already? Now to see if those carrots I grew came out right.”
With no reaction to his sarcasm, the guards watched as Zeil and Captain Sail left the Cell and followed the herd of prisoners through the corridor, down the stairway, and into the dinning floor below. As they arrived in the heavily guarded mess hall, Zeil and Captain Sail got in the serving line as Zeil noticed that all the servers were actual prisoners as he approached one who smiled, “Well well, good to see you again Sir Zeil. You probably don’t remember me do you?”
Zeil nodded, “You’re the helms colt on the Bloody tide right? Mr… Turner wasn’t it?”
He smiled, “Aye, good to see a friendly face in a place like this.” He looked to his captain and handed him a folded napkin, “Oh and captain… be sure to use this wisely… Messes can be unbecoming of our captain aye?”
Smiling, Captain Sail opened the napkin slightly to see some black powder inside the fold as he closed it and passed it to Zeil, “I’ll be fine, but perhaps Sir Zeil could use it to… um… cushion his neck cuff a bit. I'm sure that stone imbedded in it is rubbin’ ya raw.”
Smiling at the idea, Zeil took the napkin and made sure it was folded properly before slipping it under the cuff around his neck right between the ever stone and his skin so that it was somewhat hidden from any who would look at him. After securing the napkin, Turner smiled as he gave them both treys of food, “Enjoy your meals gents.”

Nodding, the two took their treys and went to a table to sit and eat. As soon as they sat down, Zeil panned his eyes across the room as he observed everything. The number of guards in the room, the exits, and even how far each exit was from all of the tables. Seeing this captain sail spoke, “I know what you thinkin’ lad and don’t bother. There are usually more than eight guards in this room, only one way in or out of this floor and to go from floor to floor takes a key to get through the gates. From our cell you would need two keys to leave this tower alone. Then you would have to cross each tower which is two more keys each before arriving at the main gate and garrison where the number of guards is ten times what we see in this room alone. That on top of an alarm activating which locks down each tower and immediately notifies the king’s personal fleet of airships. So… unless you intend on breaking through ten iron gates, and over a hundred guard’s, all before the king’s army can arrive to stop us… then escape through that way isn’t in the cards.”
Zeil nodded, “I assumed it would be the hardest way but ya can't blame me for considering our options. After all what you have planned won't be much ea-“

Before Zeil could finish his sentence, another prisoner approached as the large minotaur smiled before speaking, “Well well well, look what we have here. Looks like we have ourselves a new bug to add to our little garden. And look at that, he clings to Captain Sail in hopes of feeling safe doesn’t he? Well jokes on you little critter, the captain earned his place with his reputation alone… but you aren’t as lucky.”
Already knowing where this was going, Zeil sighed as he replied, “Oh great… seems my day will begin with an idiot and a lesson to teach.”
Captain Sail smiled at the insult as the Minotaur replied with a cocky tone, “Oh, looks like the bug thinks himself venomous… I think I'm going to enjoy squishing this one before he hangs.”
Zeil sighed in hopelessness, “I get it… pick on the new guy and see how long it takes before he breaks down right?” he rubbed his head in irritation before continuing, “Trust me when I say this, but if I were you. I would turn around and leave now.”
The minotaur smiled, “Really? Alright changeling, I'll bite, why should I?”
Zeil turned his head slightly to glare at the minotaur with the corner of his eye as he replied with a calm but ominous tone, “Because without my vow… I'm afraid I won't be able to restrain myself.”

Just as that was said, the atmosphere of the entire room seemed to change as every creature in the room felt the foreboding feeling of death in the air. With this ominous feeling in the air all who were present looked towards Zeil in worry. Even the prison guard’s gripped their weapons in anxiety as they took looked towards Zeil in hope that the situation wouldn’t involve them. But none felt more afraid then the provoking minotaur who himself stepped back with a worried expression as, Captain Sail who also felt uneasy, cleared his throat and spoke, “Ya see Axel… Sir Zeil here once took a vow to never take a life until he was reunited with his lost love. I would assume, he broke said vow hence his reasonin’ for being here of all places. And if I were you, I’d do what he suggests, there are some demands, that even I wouldn’t dare challenge.”
Understanding the warning clearly, the large minotaur raised his hands in front of him as he slowly backed away and replied, “I'm just foolin’ is all, I meant no harm um… Sir Zeil was it? No disrespect was intended, I just wanted to welcome you proper like. Seems I need to work on my social skills… I'm gonna go now. Enjoy our meal.”

Fearful for angering him more, the large minotaur backed away as the feeling of impending danger slowly faded in the room. As the denseness of the aura faded, the other prisoners slowly went back to their meals while trying to pretend the darkness was never felt as the guards lessened their grips on their weapons as they all breathed a sigh of relief. As the aura of the room returned to what it was before, Captain Sail couldn’t help but smile as he spoke, “I'll say this for sure lad, I am glad you consider me a friend. I’d hate to get on your bad side.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Well, I took the lesson from you. Showing them I'm a threat to get them to back off is something you do to prevent mutineers right?”
Captain Sail laughed out loud as he nodded, “I suppose it’s similar.” He looked down at his food as he spoke with a serious tone, “So… which titan currently possessed you? Or more accurately, who did you possess?”
Somewhat nervous, Zeil gave Captain Sail a surprised look as the wise ship captain smiled, “Don’t be so shocked lad, I’ve sailed all the seas a hundred times over and learned of mysteries from every corner of this world. But through it all, the only time I have ever felt fearful of my own life, was when I stood in the presence of an enraged Titan. And today will mark the second time I’ve felt that very same fear. So I'll ask again, which titan currently shares your body?”

Knowing there was no hiding it, Zeil replied as quietly as he could, “Lucifer.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “Ah I see, so that would make you, the Mage of Zebrica wouldn’t it?”
Not surprised that Captain Sail knew about the mage too, Zeil nodded, “Yes, but… let’s keep that one to us. I wouldn’t want the king to find out, especially since he is already afraid of me. So… have you met the last mage? Or did you hear about him elsewhere?”
Captain sail shook his head, “No, but I’ve come across a few pirates who have. In fact according to the old stories one of the mages was a pirate back when.”
Zeil nodded, “Yes I remember… Mage Kulana the eighteenth mage, I recall a second name, the Black Magic Baroness?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, her pirate name. Not that I met her before. That was about two hundred years ago if my history is accur… wait… what do you mean by, you remember?”
Zeil hesitated for a second before replying, “It’s a mage thing. Let’s just say… I know every mage more personally than anyone else possibly could. But that aside what’s next w-”
“As I live and breathe.”

Confused by the interruption, both Captain Sail and Zeil looked to an approaching griffin as the prisoner approached, sat at the same table, and looked to Captain Sail, “Your Captain Sail… right? I'm a big fan of yours.”
Captain Sail replied with a skeptic tone, “That right?”
“Yea, as a fellow thief of the land, knowing about all the best are a bit of a hobby of mine. You sailed ever sea robbing from any banner. I heard they considered you a gentlecolt pirate since you showed mercy to any ship willing to surrender without a fight. I even heard you threatened a titan while floating just outside his island.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Not just outside his island lad… I did it while standing on his shore right to his face… but I know well who I am, you are?”
The griffin smiled, “Sorry, my name is Artist. But my friends call me Khan.”
Zeil replied, “Khan Artist?”
The griffin smiled, “By name and by trade… and you… you’re the changeling that was recently locked up in here aren’t you? You must be pretty tough to send Axel running with his tail between his legs. And given the tenseness of the situation. I can only imagine how quickly you would take him down if he didn’t back off. So… what’s your story?”

Captain sail interrupted, “Actually since it’s you who approached us… its better if you talk first. If you’re really a con artist, then you must have cheated someone pretty important to get sent to the tower of condemned prisoners.”
Khan shrugged his shoulders as he replied, “Well… that’s kinda a long story… to shorten it… I was in the minimal security tower for a few years, but I couldn’t help but cheat a few prisoners in a poker game. Afterwards a fight broke out, fists were thrown yata, yata, a few guards stepped in, one fell onto a sharp objects and I was sent here as punishment. Pending a life sentence for actions that led to murder of a prison guard.”
Captain Sail seemed skeptic, “Hmm that so?...”
Khan nodded, “Well I'm guessing that the good captain here is here for piracy… but what about you Mr?...”
Zeil replied, “Zeil and if you must know, I’m here because I was born a changeling.”
Khan chuckled, “Well that’s a hard case to fight, but I guess all nations have their stupid laws. But… didn’t I hear Axel call you… Sir Zeil?”
Zeil gave him a threatening tone, “You heard wrong.”
Ignoring the threat, Khan spoke, “I guess I did then. Oh well, it doesn’t matter much. So…” he looked at Captain Sail, “What was the leviathan sea like? I’ve heard stories of how you and your crew came face to face with the dreaded titan of the sea… were you scared? Was he truly as terrifying as they say? How did you esca-”

Realizing the griffin was getting over excited, Captain Sail interrupted, “Whoa now lad… one question at a time. I can't answer you if the question changes over and over again.”
Khan felt embarrassed, “Oh… sorry… got a little over excited for a second. Like I said, I'm a fan of the Crimson Ghost Hunter and how he chased a legend to its own grave. I just wanna hear the story.”
Captain Sail sighed as he replied, “Alright… I see no harm in telling the tale.”
From there, Captain Sail told the story to the young griffin about his fight with Iron hoof and his adventure to the Leviathan Sea. Though occasionally the griffin would ask about Zeil, the two managed to dodge each question as they spent the rest of the lunch talking about Captain Sail’s adventures.

Later however, as the lunch ended and captain sail and Zeil were sent back to their cell, Zeil took the napkin with the black powder from under his neck cuff as he handed it to Captain Sail, “Here you go… let’s hope Powder keg can put that coal to use.”
Captain sail nodded, “He will, so… did ya believe any of that crap that Khan character was spewin’?”
Zeil shook his head, “Some of it was true, judging by his emotions, but I'll leave it to a con artist to believe his own lies. Either way… he can't be trusted, I'm willing to bet he is some kind of informant for the guards here.”
Captain sail nodded, “Aye… but the best thing about an informant… is that if you know who they are, they become easy to use.”
Zeil nodded as he asked, “Does this change anything about you-know-what?”
Captain Sail smiled, “On the contrary, it makes it even more exciting… now I just need to know who this khan guy is working for, and how I can use him.”
Zeil nodded, “Will we include him to use him?”
Captain sail smiled, “We will… but not yet, let’s make it too close to the date to leave him sweating… besides, if he truly knows me as well as he says… then he knows what I'll do to him, if he decided to betray us.”
Zeil smiled, “I'm sure it will be hard to… what do you call it? Fodder someone here without a cannon.”
Captain Sail smiled sinisterly as he looked to the a few chain and shackles that were connected to the walls as he replied, “Foddering only needs gunpowder and the foreboding feeling that all will ends soon. There is more ways to do it… albeit less… painless ways.”

Bk13/Ch3 The Pieces in Place

Bk13/Ch3
The Pieces in Place
(Year 09, Month 10, Day 07)

In the large temple centered in the heart off the Northern Tribe, Chief Basarum sat in his throne with his head resting on his hoof which rested on the throne’s arm. With little interest in his expression, the chief sat silently as the Envoy from the Storm Kingdom stood about ten paces in front of him as the storm beast spoke with his groggy voice. Though Chief Basarum had little interest in his words, Lady Zera stood beside his throne as she listened to every word with a polite smile on her face. After a few more minutes Chief Basarum sighed as she raised his hoof and spoke, “I’ve heard enough.”
Confused the storm beast silenced himself as Chief Basarum stood from his throne and spoke, “I understand you king’s concern, and if I could, I would certainly help you to identify this… Zeil changeling. But I assure you, there is no, nor has there ever been a changeling residing amongst my tribe. I'm sorry, but I simply cannot provide information of which I do not have.”
The storm beast spoke again, but this time lady Zera replied, “I'm afraid that is impossible. If the changeling disguised himself and stayed within our tribe, then I the oracle of Zebrica would have certainly seen his true self by simply looking into his future. Sadly I have seen no future of any changeling in my lifetime.”

The Storm beast looked back to Chief Basarum as he nodded, “I'm afraid, what information your king seeks isn’t here. All I can do is direct you to the other tribes, as we of the Northern Tribe cannot help you.”
Disappointed the storm beast bowed slightly and thanked him in his own language before turning away and leaving the temple. Once the beast was gone Chief Basarum sat back in his throne as Lady Zera smiled, “Seems our future son in law made it to his next destination safely.”
Chief Basarum looked to the entrance to the temple and spoke quietly, “Should we get involved? They have him locked in a prison condemned to death… or so they say.”
She shook her head, “We both know that a cell won't hold the Mage of Zebrica. Not to mention fate requires him to be there in the first place. We will just let it play out as is. Are we so sure that the other tribes will keep silent?”
Chief Basarum nodded, “They will follow tradition as we did. All who are banish are denied recognition, meaning they don’t exist, nor did they ever. Let’s just hope, Mage Zeil knows how to conduct himself now that he is the Mage of Zebrica.”

Back in the Storm Kingdom, King Typhen stood with a blunted sword in his hoof as he waited for the three storm beast surrounding him to strike. The first to attacker charged him from behind as the king turned and parried a vertical attack away before turning around and kicking with his hind hooves as the kick hit the attacker in his face while simultaneously disarming and knocking him to the ground. With the first guard down, the next one attacked as the king dodged a diagonal slash before using the hilt of his sword to bash the beast in his gut causing the guard to stumble back before taking a knee in pain. As the king looked to the last guard, he realized the guard had already charged as King Typhen only had a split second as he blocked three attempts by the attacker before blocking the sword on the fourth swing as he locked his opponent in place. With the small unicorn being slightly weaker than the lager beast, the king knew he wouldn’t last long as he shifted his stance causing the guard to lose his balance. With the guard’s concentration broken, the king began rotating his blade around as he made multiple rotations to lessen the guard grip on his weapon. Once the guards grip was loose enough, King Typhen flung his sword upwards, disarming the guard before bringing his weapon back and shifting the grip of his weapon to punch the guard in his face knocking him to the ground and leaving only the king standing.

Annoyed the king lowered his weapon as he spoke in anger, “Pathetic… all of you!”
He turned to the guard who was on his knee as he raised his weapon up and put the point against the guard throat, “You… why did you go easy on me? Do you have such doubt in your king as to show mercy?... SPEAK!!!”
With the king’s anger apparent, the guard hesitated in worry as the king realized is raised voice before looking to the sword in his hoof and sighing, “Forget it…”
Dropping his weapon and turning away from the fallen guards he spoke, “Apologies… it would seem that I mistook my own progression, for your mercy… you three take the rest of the week off. You may pass the time as you please, but I suggest getting stronger. I won't be as strict as the last king but I don’t want weak soldiers.”
The guard’s looked to each other and nodded as they each stood from their position, bowed in respect, and dismissed themselves as the king looked down at the sword he just dropped before mumbling to himself, “Are you happy? I'm resembling you more and more with each day. To think I may actually be like you someday… It sickens me…”

Although she didn’t hear his words, Commander Tempest entered the room as she spoke, “Excellency? I just passed your sparing partners… seems like you are progressing well.”
Typhen nodded, “Yes but I can't let my progress dwindle now… there is always a stronger enemy over the horizon.”
She nodded, “Either way… I came to tell you that the pirate you asked to see is here.”
The king nodded, “Ah, very good… I’d assume he is waiting for me in the…”
She nodded, “The Throne room.”
The king didn’t reply, instead he only gave her a dull look and held it for a few second before Tempest sighed as she spoke, “I'll send him to your study… but you know you will have to use that throne sooner or later.”
The king nodded as he turned to leave the room, “Later will be most likely. For now, I need to clean myself up. Just wait in my study, and… be respectful to him… he is a legend after all.”

Thirty minutes later, the king entered his study as he saw Captain Sail sitting at a table in front of his desk wearing shackles on his hooves. Seeing this the king trotted passed him to his desk as he spoke with a polite tone, “My apologies Captain, but I was in the middle of my training and I didn’t want to meet with you with a soiled coat.”
Captain Sail nodded as he replied, “S’pose a king such as you would have many duties to attend. But a humble sailor such as I sees it as odd that you would make time for me.”
King Typhen sat at his desk as he opened a drawer and replied, “On the contrary, I’ve been expecting to meet with you for quite a while. To meet with the legendary Captain Crimson Bartholomew Sail… it’s an honor in itself.” He pulled out a bottle of fine rum and sat it on his desk, “I apologies if this isn’t within your tastes, but I felt that such an occasion as this calls for something familiar to you. I personally don’t drink rum but in hopes of showing respect, I felt it nessisary to give it a try. Provide you do me the honor of drinking with me.”

As that was said, Tempest unlocked the shackles on Captain Sail’s hooves as the captain couldn’t help but feel confused, “Respect? Not to be offensive, but why would a king such as yourself show me this kind of respect?”
King Typhen smiled as he poured them both a drink as he replied, “A few reasons actually… first because a king such as myself will always show respect to those in high position, generals, nobles, ship captains included. And the second reason, because you are Captain Sail… need I say more.”
Captain Sail gave him a suspicious look, “I s'pose…”
After the drinks were poured, King Typhen used his unicorn magic to hand Captain Sail his drink as he continued, “Also, I hear that you often use this form of setting to… ease the tension when speaking with those of separate social classes. After all when discussions are made over a drink, titles become irrelevant… or do you word it differently?”

Captain Sail looked into the glass but hesitated as he replied, “You aint wrong… but givin’ my stay in your kingdom, I can't help but feel… doubtful of your hospitality.”
The king noticed Captain Sail’s hesitation in drinking as he nodded, “I understand.” He raised his glass and observed the contents, “One would assume that after all you’ve been through in the Bastille that I would lure you here just to poison you correct?” He drank the contents in one swift gulp, cringed at the drink’s strength, then replied, “But I'm not like the former king. If I wanted to kill you, I wouldn’t be so low as to poison you. I would face you blade to blade with honor.”
Captain Sail was still skeptic but he felt the drink was safe as replied, “Then you and I have something in common.”
That said Captain Sail drank the drink as the king replied, “Not so… I myself have never had the pleasure of killing a ghost. Please enlighten me… what does it take to achieve such a feat. And… what sort of ghost was he anyways?”

Captain Sails expression sank as he replied, “She… was what captains hope to be. She could hold more faces then one, acting as frail as a rose one minute then bearing her thorns the second. Her voice alone could lift the lowest moods and if she sang, it’s as if the angles above were serenading your soul to the blissful beyond. And when she died, she died at the helm of her ship, with cannons loaded ready to fight her way through hell itself. As any respectful captain should, she died with more honor then even I could muster.”
Hearing his words clearly, the king smiled, “That’s it… that is what all life in this world should strive to be. Anypony can hold the respect his subornments or even his superiors alike, but to be respected by your enemies… that makes you a true warrior. And that is what we all should strive for.”
Captain Sail nodded as he took another drink, “Aye, s'pose it is.”
The king smiled as he opened a file on his desk and spoke, “Anyways, I’ve been going over your file and I noticed you were imprisoned for piracy… and your argument to that is that you were pardoned by an Equestrian princess.”

Captain Sail nodded as he replied with a displeased tone, “Aye… and I was told that it was Equestria where a pirate helped to kill the former Storm King. Which is why I'm imprisoned.”
King Typhen nodded, “I know this pirate, Captain Celaeno. She was a great help in liberating Equestria and disposing of the former Storm King. But she is an ally and in her own way, pardoned by myself personally for her actions that day. The reason your pardon isn’t recognized is because we don’t recognize pardons from Equestrian rulers. As far as we are concerned, you still stand unpunished for your crime of piracy which in this kingdom, is a life sentence. We would resort to death, but for a legend such as you, we choose to show a bit of mercy. Which… brings us to this.” He poured himself another drink, “How would you like to return to the sea… with pay?”
Captain Sail was skeptic, “Go on…”
The king smiled, “I want you to become the admiral of my navy. With your reputation alone, the Storm Kingdom will surely become a force to be reckoned with.”

Captain Sail decided to play along, “So you feel the name of Admiral Sail would be enough to make your enemies flee in fear?”
King Typhen shook his head, “Not at all, it’s more of an insurance policy. Unlike the former king, I have no interest in conquest. I would much rather protect my own kingdom then to claim others. What I want to ensure is that with a Captain of your reputation, we could sway other nations to hesitate before attempting to invade. At least by sea anyway.”
The king used his unicorn magic to hold the bottle toward Captain Sail as he filled his glass with the captain replying, “I s'pose that makes sense, but somehow I feel that there is something you want first. After all you’re offering to release me from your prison, and give me something as prestigious as an entire navy at my command. But besides security, what is it that you get out of this generous offer?”
Smiling at where the conversation sat, the king dodged the question as he opened a different drawer on his desk and pulled out a book, “Are you a reader captain? I'm sure your time at sea isn’t always full of ship raiding and battles with other pirates.”

Captain Sail was annoyed his question was dodged but he understood that it wasn’t an unrelated topic so he replied, “I’ve been known to look through a few books, mainly sea charts though.”
The King nodded as he placed the bottle back on his desk, “Interesting, I myself started taking an interest in a subject that I didn’t quite expect. And this particular series caught my eye… I'm sure you’ve heard of it, it’s quite popular in Equestria.”
The king used his magic to take the book from his hooves and move it towards the captain as he place it on the table in front of Captain Sail as the captain looked at the book, which was titled, Daring Do and the Pirates of the Frozen Sea. As he looked at the book, Captain Sail shook his head, “Doesn’t ring any bells.”
The king nodded, “Interesting… this happens to be the first of Miss Yearlings books and I was surprised how for the first adventure this Daring Do requested the help of an old pirate friend… a captain who commands a crew of pirates and sails aboard a vessel with Crimson sails… hence the captain’s name suggests. Sound familiar?”

Doing an intently bad job at playing dumb, Captain Sail smiled, “Does she now… seems Miss Yearling heard my stories and wanted to use my character in her book then. I'm flattered.”
The king knew he was being played as he replied, “And yet she describes him to a perfect tee. As if she had actually met you in person.”
Captain Sail nodded, “A coincident perhaps?”
King Typhen used his magic to carry a stack of books with him as he stood from his desk approached the table Captain Sail was sitting at and sat down beside him. After sitting at the table he placed the stack of books next to him as he replied, “I considered that… but then I continued into her series and he appeared again,” he took a book from the top of the stack and sat it down as it read, Daring Do and the curse to cross the sea, “And again,” he placed another book this one titled Daring Do and the journey into Home “And again.” He placed one last book with the rest, this one titled, Daring Do and the Race to Prance. “Somehow… I don’t think multiple references count as a single coincident.”

Captain Sail looked at the books as he spoke sarcastically, “Seems I got some royalties to collect, I wasn’t aware of this last one. And to think the race was dull to me. She must have spruced it up with cleaver word play.”
The king ignored the disrespect as he replied, “But it’s not these stories that interest me the most… it’s a few of her more recent books that caught my attention.” He place two more books on the table, the first was titled Daring Do and the Knight of Lilith, and the next was Daring Do and the Voyage of Betrayal. Seeing these easily told Captain Sail what the king wanted as he smiled, “Hmm… these look interesting.”
The king nodded, “Yes, but the new character she includes is what caught my attention. A changeling knight known as Sir Zeil who often travels in the form of a Zebra.”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Never heard of him.”
The king started to get annoyed, “Are you sure? In this second book, you yourself convers with him multiple times. Not to mention he happens to be the same zebra of whom you currently share a cell.”
Captain Sail could sense the kings irritation as he smiled, “That right? But I hardly see how that has anything to do with me being your Admiral.”

The king chuckled to calm himself as he replied, “Well, you ask what’s in it for me… if you want that position, all you have to do is tell me everything you know about this Sir Zeil. Anything would be helpful, but what I want to know is who he is, why he is here, where he is going, and for what reason. And you can also include if you know, why he’s hidden his… suspected knighthood from me. If this Lilith story is true, then I know why he is knighted, but coming from an author of fiction adventure stories, I can't rightly trust its events are true. And my sources have stated that you have referred to him as Sir Zeil while in custody so, you can see why I'm a little conflicted. So tell me this… is he truly a knight?”
Captain Sail hesitated at the possible outcomes of his answer before replying, “He is… though I only know what Miss Do has told me, and nothing more. S'pose these book hold more then what I know.”
King Typhen sighed, “I assumed they would, but Miss Yearling is very vague of his origin or intention. She only talked about his appearance and his involvement with the whole Lilith incident. And I'm going to glance over the whole love interest she seemed to put with Daring Do.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Yes that would be wise.”

King Typhen spoke with a serious tone, “So… now that you know what I want… will you tell me? Tell me everything you know about this Sir Zeil, and your pardon will be processed by the end of the day. You won't even have to return to the Bastille. I'll even process the paperwork to have all who were in your company released with you. That’s a full pardon for both you and your crew.”
Captain Sail nodded, “And all I have to do is betray Sir Zeil.”
The king smiled, “He won't ever need to know. We can keep it just between all who stand in this room. Just you, me, and Commander Tempest. So… do we have a deal?”
Captain Sail looked to the collection of books that were scattered out in front of him as he replied, “These stories… s’pose you’ve already read them cover to cover aye? In a few of them… there were some incidents that involved… traitors and mutineers. Of which, I dealt with in a particular way that is so independent to my vessel, that we even coined a term for it… Foddering.”
The kings smile faded into an angry expression as Captain Sail continued, “If I were to tell you all I know… then I’d be no better than those who’s minds’ I’ve scattered across the waves with a cannon. Even if we were the only ones to know… it doesn’t change anything. So thanks for the offer, but I know where my loyalty lies.”

The king tried to keep his composer as he replied in anger, “So… that’s a no then…”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye, that’s a no.”
King Typhen couldn’t hold in his anger anymore as he stood from the table and yelled, “Are you that big a fool!?! You know that if he were in your horseshoes he would sell you out in a second.”
Despite the king’s yelling and anger, Captain Sail sat casually without even a flinch as he replied, “I doubt that… but even if he would. That’s his decision… not mine.”
The king glared at him from close up as he replied, “Just tell me why then… what debt could you possibly owe him to keep silent. Exactly why are you protecting him?”
Captain Sail chuckled at the king’s anger before replying with a serious tone, “I ain’t protecting him from you your majesty. I'm protecting you from him.”
The king continued to give Captain Sail an enraged glare as the look didn’t seem to faze the captain in any way. After a brief hesitation, King Typhen turned away and trotted back to his desk, “See the captain back to his cell. We are done here.”
With nothing more to say the king trotted back to his desk and looked out onto the balcony behind it as Tempest nodded, “Understood your excellency.”
Those were the last word spoken in the company, as Tempest put the shackles back on Captain Sail’s hooves and escorted him out of the room.

Later Captain Sail sat in the caged prison carriage on his way back to the bastille with only a smile of victory on his face after leaving the king in such a mood. As he sat, a small ball of paper fell between the bars on the top of the carriage as Captain Sail showed little interests in the ball of discarded trash. With his movement casual, Captain Sail slowly moved his hoof over the ball and placed it down on top of it, as he shifted his glance to each guard that escorted him back to his imprisonment. Once he realized the paper ball wasn’t noticed, Captain Sail lifted his hoof and quietly opened the wadded paper to reveal a lead musket ball and a written message on the paper that read, The Tide is safe… your orders? After reading the message, Captain Sail panned his eyes over the passing pedestrians until he saw a familiar figure standing on a rooftop just down the road. As the cloaked figure watched him, the hippogriff lowered his hood as Jim gave his captain a greeting nod. Nodding back, Captain Sail smiled as he took the lead ball that was wrapped within the note, and wrote only four things on the paper, latitude, longitude, date, and time. After finishing, Captain Sail rapped the lead ball back in the paper as he slid it off the caged carriage and watched it fall off the cart and into the street behind him. After the prison convoy passed, Jim glided down to the street and picked up the note as he read what was written and nodded, “Aye aye captain… we will be there.”

Back in the Bastille, the prisoners were on recreational time where they were allowed to walk the floor with the cells freely as Zeil stopped at another cell and looked to the inmate inside, “Axel…”
The large minotaur quickly realized who was talking as he turned around and replied in worry, “Oh um… Sir Zeil… H-how are you doing today? Um… s-sir.”
Zeil got straight to the point, “Do you have it?”
Axel nodded, “Oh, right yea right here.”
Axel handed Zeil a small roll of string as he explained, “I managed to get this from the burlap sacs we use at the farm… I hope it’s enough.”
Zeil took the string as he nodded, “Not sure… but that’s for Powder Keg to decide. Anyway… have you been keeping an eye on your cellmate?”
Axel nodded, “Oh… yea… um. Your right about this Khan character. He acts all smiley and friendly… but he is defiantly a rat. After lockup, he hangs around the bars as if he is trying to listen to what someone down the corridor is saying. And other times, like now for instance… he’s been… disappearing.”
“Disappearing?”
“Yea, most would think he is going to work at the farm or kitchen. But rumor is he has been escorted away by a guard on occasion. If you ask me… he is keeping tabs on someone. Mainly you and Captain Sail.”

Zeil gave Axel a skeptic look as he replied, “Is that so… I assumed as much. Looks like the Captain and I have the right idea about him. Thanks Axel… you’ve earned my trust.”
Smiling with relief, Axel replied, “O-of course Sir Zeil. If I can help you or the captain with anything at all, just say the word.”
Zeil nodded, “Noted… in fact, we have a little task for you later, but I'll wait till the captain is here to explain. We wouldn’t want t-”
“Prisoner returning! CLEAR THE GATE!!!”
Hearing the order, Zeil looked towards the main stairwell as the gate leading onto the floor opened allowing Captain Sail to enter. As soon as he entered the guard spoke, “You got ten minutes of recreational time left. Then it’s back to your cell.”
Captain Sail tuned back to the guard who locked him in as he nodded, “Much obliged.”
As soon as the gate was shut, Captain Sail trotted to Zeil as Zeil spoke, “Welcome back captain… how did the conversation with the king go?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Just as expected, but now… all is set for the plan.”
Axel was confused, “Plan?”

Before Captain Sail could reply, Zeil held out the string to him, “Speaking of which, seems Axel here has proven himself useful. He managed to get us this and to confirm our suspicion on Khan.”
As Captain Sail looked to the thread, Powder Keg who trotted up behind him, took the string and smiled, “I'll take that, hmm… seems a little thin but I can weave it before adding the proper lacing. Should make for a fine fuse.”
Once again Axel was left clueless as Captain Sail nodded, “Then it’s agreed, Axel, Sir Zeil, Mr Keg… gather all key roles at our cell. It’s time we discuss the plan… and Axel? You’ve earned yourself a part in it. I promise you won't regret it.”
Although he felt concerned, Axel still felt better to be on both Zeil and Captain Sail’s good side as he nodded, “Um… thank you captain.”

As Powder keg and Axel went off to gather some of the crew, Zeil and Captain Sail started trotting back to their cell as Zeil spoke first, “Captain… our suspicion of Khan may not be as accurate as we thought. We may need to tread lightly if my second hypothesis is true though.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Is that right? Then that’s what we will do.”
Zeil added, “Will we still have Axel join us then?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Actually… Yes I think we will. The king ain’t a fool so if he finds out about the plan this late, he won't act hastily. And on that decision… the plan can still work, it will only make it more… fun. Regardless, there is a traitor in this prison. They’ve been talking to the King, and to add insult to injury, the king has been looking extensively into you Sir Zeil. Though all he could muster was from the books Miss Doo wrote."
Zeil thought to himself, “Really… then I can trust that he still doesn’t know I'm the mage then. She and I had an understanding to keep that between us.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Sounds right, she didn’t mention anything like that to me. Anyways, seems the king was convinced I would sell you out. Even offered me a cushy admiral position in exchange. I don’t know what you did… but you put the fear of the devil into him. He didn’t show it, but he was practically begging me to tell him anything he could use against ya.”

Zeil chuckled at the idea, “Sounds interesting. I almost wish I was there to see it.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Either way, it was as ya said… he seemed somewhat… imbalanced. He keeps talkin’ of fillin’ his ranks with soldiers of strength and reputation all to keep his kingdom safe from invasion. Not to mention just listenin’ to him talk makes him seem like he is trying to act as tough as the former king… even if he doesn’t seem to have the same attitude as him. As much as he acts like he doesn’t, he agrees with how the former king ruled and does so without even realizing it. A fool by his own worry, and imbalanced in the means.”
Zeil nodded as they entered the cell and replied, “Yes, and he will remain that until I can show him his own strength… which will be in the form of our… plan. Speaking of which,” He gestured to the cell window, “The anchor vines are ready. And hidden in the shadow of the balcony. On the day before when they move me to the holding cells, I'll do what I can to grow the rest of the vines. But I'll warn you… I may have mastered this spell but with the amount I’ve been using it, I feel a little worn out.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Just do what ya can lad, it don’t have to be pretty, it just has to hold tight.”
Zeil smiled at the agreement as he replied, “Good, but what about our escape?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I got it covered lad, don’t you worry.”
As that was said, A small number of Captain Sail’s crew gathered in and around the cell as Axel and Powder Keg entered as Powder keg spoke, “All are present captain.”

Captain Sail looked through those around him as he smiled, “Good… then let us begin. First off, I would like you lot to welcome Axel to the crew. Because of his help, he will be joining us… provided he keeps quiet about the plan.”
Axel asked, “Plan? What plan?”
Zeil replied, “We intend on getting out of here. And if you want to join us… your free to. But… ONLY if you do your part.”
Realizing he was in a dangerous situation, Axel hesitated for a second before replying, “If it will get me out of here… I'll do what I can.”
Captain Sail smiled, “And that’s all I ask. So since everyone is ready… here is the plan. Sir Zeil is scheduled for Execution this coming Friday. Less then, six days away. And with it… Tropical Storm Hera should be here at about that time. So it will be a rough and stormy morning.”
Axel asked, “With all due respect captain… how do you know that storm will be here? The sky looks just as gloomy as it always looks.”

Captain Sail smiled sinisterly, “Trust me lad, when it comes to the sea and its weather, nothing gets by me. Either way, the day prior, as usual. Sir Zeil will be moved from this floor to the execution floor and spend his supposed final night in one of the condemned cells. There, he will complete the rope bridge he has been growing under the gallows balcony and await his execution which should be at noon that day. From there, sorry to say… he will be on his own.”
Zeil nodded, “Don’t worry about me captain. I'll manage.”
Captain Sail nodded as he continued, “As for the rest of us… we know that one hour prior to the execution, we will all be ordered back to our cells for lockdown. When that happens, Axel, with your help we will begin a… little riot.”
Axel was confused, “A riot? But… what will that do, we will be on lockdown anyways?”
Captain Sail explained, “Yes, whenever a riot breaks out the floor is locked and no entry or exit is permitted by anyone. And to add to it, the floor will be left to starve with no access to food or water until we disperse. This will ensure we aren’t disturbed for the next phase of the plan. Mr. Keg?”

Powder keg smiled as he started his explanation, “During the last refurbishing of the cell walls, I added a little surprise to Captain Sail’s Cell it will insure us an escape when we need it.”
Immediately all members of the crew who weren’t filled in felt worried as Captain Sail continued, “Thanks to the thread provided by Axel, Powder Keg can begin making a fuse to detonate this surprise just after they lock down the floor. Once the wall is opened, we will make our way out of the tower and across the bottom of the gallows balcony towards the sea.”
Another Sailor spoke, “What then Captain? With no ship, and Hera overhead, we will be at the mercy of rough seas.”
Captain Sail nodded, “No… we will be at the mercy of the Tide.”
The crew gave him a clueless look as Powder Keg smiled, “Ah… so Jim pulled through did he?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye he did. I ran across him in town today. I gave him a time and place, so I guarantee Jimbo will have the Tide there and waiting. From there we will board and wait.”
Zeil nodded, “You won't wait long… once I free myself, all I need to do is retrieve my book then I'll get back to the ship.”
Axel asked, “What about the guards? Are you sure you can free yourself Sir Zeil?”
Zeil gave him a serious look, “You doubt me?”
Feeling nervous about his answer, Axel replied, “N-not at all. I'm just concerned for your safety is all.”

Captain Sail replied, “I doubt Sir Zeil will have any trouble with the guards, Even if Commander Tempest is there, she won't last against Sir Zeil… not long anyways.”
Feeling a dark and foreboding feeling in the room, Axel kept quiet as Zeil added, “My intent is to leave here without killing anyone. But if I'm forced to act early or if I feel the plan goes awry… I'll do whatever it takes to get out alive… even if I'm the only one to do so.”
Captain Sail cleared his throat as Zeil added, “Of course that is assuming you and your crew have already cleared the area and are safely away.”
Axel felt uneasy as he nodded, “Oh um r-right… so… what about the rat? What will we do about Khan?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I have a plan for him. We will involve him in the riot. By then it will be too late for him to act, and… we can use him as… a distraction should we need one.”
Zeil nodded, “So… if that’s all, then we know the plan and will be ready.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye… till then we continue our days as normal. That includes telling no one about this. If it goes accordingly, we will all be free by the end of next week. If not… most likely we will all be dead.”

Before anything else could be said, the main gate to the floor opened as a guard entered and called, “RECREATION TIME IS OVER!!! BACK TO YOUR CELLS!!!”
With that, the herd broke apart and went back to their cells as Captain Sail and Zeil stayed where they were until the guards came by and closed all the cells leaving the two alone. After the guard left Captain Sail chuckled, “That was a good idea making that threat about acting early and killlin’ everyone… that should keep our rat on his hooves.”
Zeil smiled, “Just a little warning to the king should he find out and tries to stop us too soon. So… you think this will be a simple plan?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Nothing is simple lad, it’s only a test to see how well you are at adapting. As for our rat.” Captain Sail approached some of the chained shackles on the wall of the cell as he examined the chain and spoke, “I wonder if these will be strong enough to get our message through.”

That night, far off in the capital City of Prance, two royal guards entered a pub as they were stopped at the door by a bouncer, “Messieurs, you know ze rules. All weapons must be held by myself to ensure no violence takes place.”
The two royal guards nodded in agreement as they each handed the bouncer their swords before approaching the bar and sitting down. Once there, one of the guards spoke, “So what was all the commotion today? I heard a royal envoy from the Storm Kingdom was seen entering the castle to see the king.”
The second guard nodded, “Nozing to worry about, just some guard who was asking about a changeling.”
The second gaurd was confused, “Changeling? What changeling?”
“Not sure, but Ze Storm King was trying to find any information he could about this random changeling. Says his name was Zeil or somezing like that.”
As that was said, a cloaked mare at the end of the bar overheard the name as she started listening closely as the second guard continued, “Really? Was this Zeil character a criminal on the run?”
the first guard shook his head, “Actually no. Zis Zeil is already locked up in Ze Storm Kingdom but the king was still wanting to know all he could about him. Supposedly, he snuck into ze city disguised as a zebra and claimed he is on his way to Equestria. But Ze Storm King is convinced zis is a lie since he sent envoys to many kingdoms in hope of discovering ze truth. From the way it sounds. I would guess zis Zeil changeling scares Ze Storm King for some reason. I would probably say he even terrifies him.”

As the two guards laughed about the subject, the cloaked mare placed money on the counter and stood up before trotting to the door to leave the tavern.”
As she approached the bouncer at the door she spoke, “Pardonnez moi monsieur? But could you please return my weapon? It would seem I'm needed elsewhere.”
The bouncer nodded as he turned around and retrieved her weapon before handing it to her as he spoke, “Forgive my curiosity madam… but zis weapon… a scythe with lightning on it… it’s a weapon I’ve heard of before… you madam… you wouldn’t happen to be ze Reap-“
At that moment, the mare narrowed her nocturnal eyes at the bouncer as she held her hoof to her mouth in a shushing manner before replying, “I’m gonna stop you there. Let’s just act like we both know who I am, and pretend I wasn’t here. I’d rather not kill any innocent bystanders… today.”
With that the mare took her scythe and trotted outside as she seemingly vanished into the night leaving the guard speechless of who he had just met.

Bk13/Ch4 The Storm Kingdom Escape

Bk13/Ch4
The Storm Kingdom Escape
(Year 09, Month 10, Day 16)

The wind howled outside as King Typhen paced impatiently in his study. Looking at a grandfather clock that stood in the corner of the room, he could see that the time was currently ten fifty AM. Annoyed with how slow time seemed to pass, the uneasy king sat at his desk and tried to clear his mind by looking through a few documents in front of him. However none of them seemed to ease his mind as he looked back at the clock again only to see that two minutes have passed since he last looked at the time. Tapping his hoof impatiently on his desk, the king again tried to look at the document s in front of him but since his mind couldn’t focus on the paperwork, he soon found his eyes wondering back towards the clock yet again only to see that one minute had passed. This time as he looked back to the paperwork, a bone chilling voice spoke up from behind his chair, “Waiting for something your majesty? You seem a little… on edge.”
Surprised by the unexpected voice, King Typhen stood up and backed away from his chair as he saw the figure of a mare standing behind his chair as he spoke, “Wha- wh- who… who are you?... How did you get in here?”
The mare stepped out from behind the chair as she replied with the hood of her black cloak still up concealing part of her face, “You seem to be looking at that clock a lot your majesty? What’s wrong, waiting for a hot date?”

The mare stepped out a little more as the king started getting angry, “I said what are doing here? You’re not suppo-“
when he saw her weapon in her hoof, the king paused, “Wait… that scythe… I know that weapon… your… you’re the Reaper of the Cutters aren’t you?... wh-why are you here? are you here to kill me for what the former king did?”
Silver shook her head as she replied, “Oh no… if I wanted to kill you… you’d already be dead. Besides, The Cutters have disbanded, so any actions that involved the previous king’s attack on Equestria don’t concern me in the slightest.”
The king still felt unsure as he replied, “Then… why are you here? What purpose do you have to infiltrate my kingdom?”
She smiled as she trotted around and sat down in his chair, “Actually… I came to warn you, or mock you… whichever you choose to accept.”
“Mock? What do you mean?”

Silver smiled as she replied with a gloating tone, “You keep looking at the clock… why? Are you anxious for a certain execution that’s about to take place within the next-“ TThe grandfather clock started chiming eleven o-clock as she finished, “Hour?”
The king felt confused, “Yes… but I can hardly see how you would know that.”
She smiled, “I have my ways…”
The King felt superior as he replied, “Oh… I see now. Your trying to warn me of the changeling and the Captain’s escape attempt aren’t you? Well don’t bother… though his details were vague, my informant told me about their plan to escape by sea, and I already took the liberty of hiring a number of pirate hunters to patrol my coast as well as proceeding with the execution a little early. Even if they tried, they won't be going anywhere beyond the Bastille’s walls.”
She gave him a dull look, “Pirate hunters… you really think they can stop the one pirate they were unable to catch?”
King Typhen nodded, “The four ships I hired should do fine… the Bloody Tide has to get close to the prison, hold its position in this rough storm, and then secure its crew and captain before it can escape. Even if the hunters don’t see it approach, it won't be able to get away while fighting this storm.”
Silver chuckled as she replied, “The world’s greatest pirate and the unknown changeling. You really don’t seem to grasp the caliber of prisoners you have, do you?”
Feeling insulted, King Typhen replied, “Oh… and you do?”

Silver smiled sinisterly as she leaned against his desk as if it were her own before replying, “Oh I do… Tell me. Have you heard of the Wooden Pergola Forest… or better yet the village that resides there… well past tense Resided?”
The king felt skeptic, “You mean that old story of the village that disappeared about five years ago? Superstitious nonsense. I’ve better things to do then to listen to a made up stories of boogeymen hiding in forests.”
Silver chuckled, “Oh that’s no boogyman… I’ve investigated the grounds myself and seen the village first hoof, but despite every theory offered to me… only one seems possible.”
Though he had little interest in the subject, the king replied, “Really, and what’s that?”
Silver replied, “The village and its residents were all killed, by the Mage of Zebrica.”
King Typhen thought to himself, “Mage of Zebrica… I’ve heard of him before. Last I heard though he died a long time ago.”
She shook her head, “Well he did, but history has always shown that when one dies, another takes his place.”

King Typhon sighed as he tried to press the subject, “Alright, so the mage lives… but I don’t see what it has to do wi-“
all of a sudden, King Typhen’s eyes widened with realization as Silver’s smile grew even more sinister as the king replied, “N-no… it-it can't be… it’s not possible.”
As King Typhen took a step back in worry, Silver added, “I admit, I had my doubts as well… but then I investigated and discovered the truth from my Zebrican contact. Sir Zeil, and the Mage of Zebrica, are one and the same.”
Still in disbelief, he replied, “But… it can't be…”
She added, “And you… you sentenced him to death. I wonder, what will he do when the moment actually comes that his execution is carried out? Will he be merciful in his response? Or will he do, what the mage is most known for?”
King Typhen shook his head in denial as he spoke too softly for anyone outside the room to hear, “Guards…”
With his first order too faint to be heard, nothing happened as Silver continued mocking him, “Will he bring darkness, by removing another kingdom from this world?”

This time, King Typhen’s call echoed through the room, “GAURDS!!!”
Hearing the panic in his tone, the doors to the study flew open as the guards standing outside entered as the king looked to them as he spoke, “Ready my carriage immediately! I have to get to the Bastille as soon as possible.”
One of the storm guards spoke in his groggy voice as the king understood and replied, “I don’t care if the weather outside is dangerous! My best and only friend is in danger thanks to an order that I gave! I won't endanger her the same way I did back then!”
He turned back to Silver, “And you, I want you t-“
Before he could finish, King Typhen realized that his chair was now empty as there was no sign of Silver anywhere. Deciding it wasn’t important, King Typhen turned away as he grabbed his sword scabbard from a nearby stand, “Forget it… guards, with me… we must get to the Bastille before it’s too late.”

Thirty minutes later, Zeil sat meditating in a cell on the execution floor. As he sat Grubber and Tempest approached the cell as Grubber tapped the shaft of his spear against the bars, “Wakey Wakey Changeling! Time to rise and greet your last day.”
Zeil opened his eyes as he smiled, “Oh good… I was wondering when we could get this show on the road.”
Tempest smiled, “Oh, by the way… we are starting early.”
Zeil nodded with his smile, “What a shock… what’s the occasion?”
She replied with a confident attitude, “We received a tip that you and Captain Sail were planning a large scale escape. So… we decided to change things, we won't be locking down the floor below as per execution standards. And we will execute you thirty minutes early. So any plans you may have with the captain or the ship that intends on picking you up will be too late to respond.”
Zeil nodded, “I see… I guess we lose then don’t we? Though… that orb on your side says you have your doubts.”
Ignoring the attention he put on the petrification orb on her hip, Tempest replied, “You think you can still win? Open up your eyes. This is it, unless… you decide to take the king up on his offer, then this will only end one way.”

Zeil smiled as he replied, “I know what it’s like to be a pawn… I will never return to that life.”
A guard approached the cell door and opened it as Tempest replied, “Then you accept your fate.” She looked to the guard, “Check his shackles and take him to the gallows.”
The guard placed shackles on Zeil’s front hooves then preceded to look over his neck shackle to ensure the ever stone was still present. After seeing that Zeil was still restrained the guard pushed against Zeil’s back as he directed Zeil out of the cell and down the corridor to the balcony with the gallows.

Down below in the main prison floor, Captain Sail was talking amongst a few other prisoners as he looked towards the guards at the main gate to the floor. With no activity happening he mumbled, “Something is wrong…”
Kahn who was standing with him asked, “You say something captain?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “No… nothing tha…”
As Captain Sail looked back to Khan he noticed a few vines growing rapidly through the window as they wrapped around the bars. Seeing this preplanned signal Captain Sail smiled, “So… they are starting early are they… I should have guessed. Well if they aren’t locking down the floor… then we have no choice but to give em’ a reason.” He looked to khan who gave him a confused look before speaking, “Khan… let me ask, if you wanted to join my crew? Would ya?”
Khan smiled as he replied, “No disrespect captain… but as much as I am a fan of your work. My paws prefer to stay on land. After all, I get sea sick pretty easily.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Good, then I won't feel too bad doing this.”

Before the confused griffon could reply, Captain Sail took one powerful swing as he hit Khan in his face knocking him unconscious with a single swing. Afterwards Khan fell to the ground unconscious just within view of the guards guarding the gate to the floor as one of the guards left his post and started walking towards the captain before calling, “HEY YOU! Step away from him n-”
At that moment, just as the guard walked passed another open cell, Axel charged out of the cell as he tackled the guard before slamming him against another cell’s bars multiple times until the guard finally lost consciousness. With the guard immobilized, Axel took the guards keys from his belt as Captain Sail spoke, “Good job lad, now lock these two in your cell and gather all members of my crew. It’s time we make our move.”

Axel smiled as he threw the unconscious guard over his shoulder, “You got it captain.”
As Axel picked up Khan and dragged the two to his cell, Captain Sail started approaching the gate to the floor as he called, “If you’re lookin’ on startin’ a fight… I’d suggest you decline… after all. What’s a pirate captain… without his crew?”
As that was said, many of Captain Sail’s crew stepped out of their cells each with a look that spelled death for any who opposed them. The glare from each sailor was enough to terrify the guards as they locked the gate as one called, “SOUND THE ALARM!!!”
Another argued, “But Commander Tempest ordered us not t-“
“I DON’T CARE! We can't allow them the chance to break free! SOUND THE ALAME AND LOCK DOWN THE FLOOR!!!”

Up on the floor above Zeil, an escorting guard, Tempest, and Grubber were reaching the exit to the execution balcony as the alarm went off with Tempest looking towards the stairway with an annoyed expression, “Those fools, I told them not to lock down the floor. Even if a riot broke out.”
Grubber smiled, “No worries, we searched the floor like you said and we didn’t find any ways that they could escape. Even if our spy didn’t know the whole story, we didn’t see anything that could be used to escape the floor.”
Tempest replied, “It doesn’t matter, Captain Sail is a master pirate. He isn’t one to under estimate.” She looked to the escorting guard, “Go down and check the floor. There is only one way on and off that floor so tell them to keep that gate locked no matter what.”
The guard nodded in confirmation and left to follow his orders as Zeil smiled, “So… your informant was withholding information was he?”
Grubber started to reply, “That’s none of your business cha-“

Tempest interrupted, “Part of his thinking was that you would actually succeed with this escape. So he obviously kept some information from us.”
Zeil smiled, “And what info did he keep?”
Tempest became irritated but she still answered in hopes that he would let the info slip, “He only told us about the plan to attempt an escape while the floor was locked down for the execution, and to flea by ship. As far as how the captain would escape the floor or get to the ship was kept to himself, and how you intend to escape with them was also kept from us.”
Zeil smiled, “Make since… since I never told anyone that I intended on escaping at all. As far as I'm concerned, I'm right where I need to be.”
Tempest replied in irritation as she pushed Zeil towards the exit, “Then get moving… we don’t have all day.”
Smiling at her irritation Zeil preceded to exit out onto the balcony as he was soon hit with the heavy rain from the large storm outside. In seconds, the three became soaked with the falling rain as Zeil trotted to the end of the balcony where a storm guard waited next to a gallows while wielding an executioner’s halberd.

Moments ago in the floor below, as Captain Sail and his crew took control of the cells as he trotted through the corridor with Powder Keg and Axel as he spoke, “Is Khan in his cell?”
Axel smiled, “Yep both he and the guard are locked up.”
The captain replied with a suspicious tone, “That so… good…. Mr. Keg, did the fuse come out fine?”
Powder Keg held up the fuse as he smiled, “It isn’t as good as my usual fuses but considering our resources, it should do nicely. It’s just a little slower burning than normal.”
Captain Sail smiled as they approached his cell, “Good… then make the preparations.”
Powder Keg smiled, “Aye Capt’n.”
As Powder Keg entered the cell, he started feeding the long fuse into a small almost hidden hole at the very bottom corner of the cell as Axel asked, “So…. What was it that you hid in there captain? You didn’t explain that when you told us the plan.”
Captain Sail replied, “Just a little bomb… nothing spec-“
“Capt’n?”

Confused, the two looked at Powder Keg as the gunner spoke, “We have a little problem over here… can you help me out?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Sure… Axel… with me. We may need your muscle.”
as that was said, both entered the cell and approached Powder Keg as the gunner replied, while backing away from the hole he was feeding the fuse through, “I think it’s stuck… if I calculated it right, there should only be about an inch of exposed fuse.”
As the two approached the hole, Captain Sail spoke, “It may be… Axel… see if you can push it in.”
Axel nodded, as he crouched down next to the hole and stated carefully feeding the fuse through as Powder Keg backed away. As soon as the fuse was fed through, Axel smiled, “There… that’s strange… it didn’t seem stuck at all.”
Captain Sail handed him a lit candle, “Good… now light it.”
Nodding the Minotaur took the candle and held it to the fuse until it sparked to life. However just as the fuse lit, a clanking sound was heard as he looked down to see that a shackle from the wall restraints was just locked onto his arm.

Confused, Axel looked to Powder Keg who just secured the restraint as he and Captain Sail trotted away from the wall as Axel spoke, “Wha- what is this? Why did you do that?”
Captain Sail and Powder Keg stepped out of the cell as the captain looked to Axel through the bars and replied, “Because you have been dishonest Axel… since day one.”
Realizing the fullness of his situation, Axel quickly looked back to the fuse, but as he did, he realized that the slow burning fuse had already gone too deep into the wall as he turned back to the captain and tried to defend himself, “But… I’ve only been honest… I have never lied to any of y-“
“Day one… you approached myself and Sir Zeil in order to threaten him… but you weren’t threatening him in a ritualistic form of hazing that all prisoners go through. You were trying to gauge his strength. Then, you choose to send Khan, your own cell mate to try to get information from us by asking those questions. Next… we decided to give Khan the benefit of a doubt. We asked you to watch him and tell us anything suspicious about him.”
Axel replied, “And I was nothing if not honest ab”
“You lied out your teeth… Sir Zeil sensed it clear as day. Khan did none of what you claim, and my crew who work every task this prison has to offer, confirmed it. not just the fact that he wasn’t doing what you claimed, but the fact that it was you who was disappearing on occasion, to have your little chats with the guards.”

Worried the fuse was getting too short, Axel replied, “But… I was loyal, to you the whole time.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Were ya? Better talk fast lad.”
Axel tried to defend himself, “I only told them that you intended on escaping today during the execution. I didn’t even mention how.”
Captain Sail asked, “And why would you do that?”
Axel replied, “I knew that if anypony could escape it was you… and if you succeeded then I cou-“
At that moment, the wall that Axel was chained to exploded inward as the rubble from the explosion threw Axel against the bars at high speed ensuring that if the explosion wasn’t lethal, the impact was.
Stepping back Captain Sail watched as the bars Axel was thrown into were knocked loose as he and the bars fell into the center of the corridor as Captain Sail spoke, “Whether you intended to help or not… if I have to question your loyalty, then you’re no better than a mutineer.”
Seeing the damage done both to the cell and to its victim, Powder Keg spoke, “Gotta say captain… I’d prefer getting foddered then this.”
Captain Sail looked out the large hole in the wall as he saw a long tunnel like cluster of vines that weaved themselves into a long rope bridge as he spoke, “let’s go Mr. Keg… The Tide should be here soon.” He turned to look over his gathered crew as he called, “Get to the sea and make ready to board the Tide! Mr. Keg, grab that lantern from the wall, we will need it.”
Powder Keg grabbed the lantern from the wall as the crew cheered and started funneling into the cell to escape from the massive prison.

Moments ago, on the balcony above, Zeil approached the gallows’ platform which was barley an inch higher than the stone balcony beneath it. however as he approached, the trapdoor on the wooden platform was open revealing a large hole in the balcony that was an open drop all the way down to the sea below. Although Zeil felt like smiling at the fact that the vine bridge he created was just outside off the trapdoor’s view, he held a straight face as the executioner pulled the trapdoor closed and locked it with the release lever as he pointed to the center off the door as a direction for Zeil to stand there. Doing as he was instructed, Zeil stepped onto the center of the secured trapdoor and turned to face Tempest and Grubber as the executioner placed the noose around his neck with Tempest calling across the balcony through the storm, “Sir Zeil! You stand accused and found guilty of infiltration of the Capital city of Thundestroke. By order of King Typhen, high ruler of the Storm Kingdom. You are hereby condemned to execution by hanging as punishment for the crime of espionage and treason. If you have any last words… Say them now.”
Zeil shook his head, as he replied, “I only hope that balance can be restored with this decision.”
Not understanding the meaning of his words, Tempest nodded, “Don’t worry… it will b-“

At that moment, the entire balcony shook as the sound of a massive explosion filled the air causing all who were present to flinch with the unexpected tremor. As soon as the explosion was felt, Tempest spoke, “Wha-what was that?”
Standing behind the accused, the executioner looked around in confusion, but as he looked back to Zeil, the bound changeling stood looking over his shoulder with a sinister glance and smile that sent chills up the executioner’s spine. From where she stood, Tempest saw this as she immediately knew it was a trap and called, “DO IT NOW!!! KILL HIM!!!”
Panicking, the execution quickly pulled the release lever to drop the trapdoor, however, the door dropped less than an inch as he looked down to see a number of vines that had grown beneath the door to ensure it stayed shut. Continuing with his order, the executioner with his halberd thrusted it in an attempt to stab Zeil, however Zeil quickly turned around and raised his shackles at just the right accuracy as the halberd’s spike tip went into the center chain link on his bindings as Zeil directed the thrust upwards before shifting his hooves in a way that allowed the sharp halberd to break the chain’s link, snapping it completely apart. With the executioner’s weight still pressed into his thrust, the blade continued forward as the spike dug into the collar knot on the noose that was still currently wrapped around Zeil’s neck. With the halberd dug and stick in the hangman’s knot, Zeil with his hooves now free preceded to open them out before closing them both and using the metal shackle that was still attached as two hammers against both sides of the executioners head. As his shackles made contact the executioner stumbled back a few feet before falling to the ground and losing consciousness.

Shocked at what she had just witnessed, Tempest took a step back in worry as Zeil slowly turned his head in her direction before beginning his approach as the damaged noose unraveled from around his neck without him having to even touch it. With a look of anger in his expression, Zeil continued his approach, but before Tempest could order him to stop, Grubber smiled as he spoke, “Don’t worry commander, the changeling has some moves… but I got this.”
Smiling at his own confidence, Grubber took a few steps in front of Tempest as he tapped his spear against the ground and held up his hand before speaking, “Stop right there changeling!” Zeil stopped and continued his unamused glare as Grubber continued, “I don’t know what fancy moves you think you can use to escape this prison… but I'm fairly curtain it is no match for m-“
At that moment, with his body soaked from the falling rain Zeil planted his rear hoof against the wet balcony floor before spinning his body around and jumping in the air giving a fast moving roundhouse kick with his hind hoof towards Grubber who was too far for his kick to reach. However the water thrown from his kick sent a blade like sweep across the air as it flew towards both Grubber and Tempest who stood about ten paces away.

Luckily Grubber was too short for the blade to hurt him as the water blade flew over his head cutting a few hairs off the top of his head and completely cutting the upper half of his spear off as the metal shaft fell to the ground with a chiming clank. Though Grubber was too short for the blade to hurt him, Tempest was not, as the water blade flew at her with the accuracy intended on removing her head. However as the water blade hit her throat, it only splashed against her skin as the rest of the blade continued passed before hitting the wall behind her and digging a deep gash in the solid stone. At that moment, it was as if time had stood still for the two soldiers as their minds slowly processed the danger they had just witnessed. Grubber started to look down at the top half of his severed spear in worry, however Tempest could only tremble slightly as she started to realize just how close to death she was. With both the commander and her subornment too shocked to speak, Zeil straitened his stance as he spoke, “Oh… I apologies, I thought you were finished talking… please…” He held out his hoof in an inviting manner, “Continue…”

As he started to remember where he was, Gubber quickly looked back to Zeil as he backed away, “On second thought…” He rushed passed Tempest and stopped at the doorway into the tower, “You got this one commander… I'm going to go… see what that noise was. Yea that’s what I'm going to do… um… I'll report what I find when I'm done.”
After that was said, Grubber retreated into the tower as Tempest still stood stunned by what she had gone through moments ago. Slowly she raised her hoof and ran it around her neck feeling for herself that the blade did no fatal damage, however as she ran it around the side of her neck she did feel a small cut as she looked down at the blood on her hoof the moment before it washed away by the falling rain. With her stun still apparent Zeil spoke, “Seems I have to give Grubber some credit. He is smarter then he looks.” Tempest looked back to Zeil as he continued, “Question is… are you? I don’t want to take any lives today. And if you step aside, I'll take my possessions, and leave. You won't ever have to see me again and that is a promise.”
Though he said this with a neutral tone and expression, Tempest couldn’t help but see him as mocking her as she readied her stance and replied, “I cannot allow that. As commander of the Storm Kingdom’s army, I won't back down.”

Seeing the determined look on her face, Zeil smiled, “Your loyal, I and Captain Sail respect that. But there is some zebra waiting for me, and I can't let her wait any longer. I'm going back to Equestria… and nothing will stand in my way.”
As that was said, Zeil stood with a determined expression as Tempest nodded, “We will see about that!”
Just then with emphasis on her last word, Tempest grabbed the orb on her side and tossed it straight up in the air as she jump, spun her body around and kicked the small projectile towards Zeil with perfect accuracy. As the orb approached Zeil, the unconcerned changeling raised his right hoof across his body before swinging hitting and shattering the orb leaving a small cloud of green smoke to fill the air in front of him which dissipated quickly in the falling rain. As soon as the action was made, Tempest smiled with pride as she mumbled, “Got you… it’s over.”
Not hearing her words, Zeil stood with confidence as he started to feel a strange sensation in his right hoof. Confused, Zeil looked to his hoof as scale-like shards of stone started sprouting from Zeil’s skin as it started at the tip of his hoof and began running up his arm as Zeil smiled, “Interesting form of petrification… nothing like I’ve seen before… in this life anways.”
As the stone started to spread, Tempest smiled, “It’s over Zeil… that enchantment will cover your body, then turn you entirely to stone. You lost.”

Zeil raised his changing hoof in front of him exposing his transformation clearly as he replied, “I wouldn’t count on it.”
As that was said, the stone scales consumed the shackle and continue spreading up his arm, but once it reached his elbow, it stopped in place and went no further. Confused Tempest’s expression became concerned as she spoke, “What?... but… how… that’s impossible.”
Zeil smiled in a gloating manner, “I didn’t think so either… yet within the last three years I discovered a secret about our kind. We changeling can transform our body literally hundreds of times in a single day. Everything from our size, appearance, species, voice, even our blood and organs. So when it comes to spells that transform us against our will?”
As that was said Zeil raised his hoof and stomped it on the ground with enough force to shatter the scale-like stone from his untouched arm, even the once metal shackle that was on his hoof broke apart into stone as that too fell to the ground like rubble. Seeing the shock on Tempest’s face, Zeil continued, “They have no effect. The only way to change a changeling into stone permanently is to first remove his ability to change. Even if it seems that they can no longer fight… the weakest changeling can change themselves back to normal… in time.”

Tempest tried to make sense of it as she pointed at his neck, “But… the ever stone! You’re ability to change should already be taken from you… how is this possible?”
Zeil smiled as he raised his head up to show the shacked on his neck as he replied, “Simple… The stone isn’t touching me.”
As he raised his head and carefully adjusted the shackle, Tempest could see a thick wad of cloth and paper tucked between Zeil’s neck and the shackle as she became angry, “What… you mean you have been able to change this whole time?”
At that moment, Zeil gripping the shackle on his neck, changed into his zebra form as the shorter appearance made it easy for him to slip out of the shackle as he took it out from around his neck and tossed it aside all without touching the stone embedded in it. Back in his zebra form Zeil’s expression became even more intimidating then before as he spoke, “Now… do you still intend to stay in my way… or do I need to do more.”

Angry that her last resort didn’t work, Tempest replied, “I'll admit I'm surprised, but that won't be enough to scare me. I told you before, you won't get away. And nothing has changed.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Understood, then no more parlor tricks, no more magic.” He held his hoof up as vines weaved themselves into a staff next to him as he gripped his weapon, “Just you, and me.”
Tempest nodded as she began her charge, “Fine by me!”
As Tempest charged towards Zeil, she leaned to her side as she scooped up the top half of Grubber’s severed spear and continued her charge towards Zeil.

Below, Captain Sail and Powder Keg reached the end of the Jacob’s ladder style bridge made of vines. As they reached the edge of their path, Captain Sail looked down into the darkness below as he spoke, “All right Mr. Keg… You have the lantern?”
Powder Keg gave Captain Sail the lantern as he spoke, “It’s here but I don’t see how it helps capt’n. the plan had to start early, so will Jim even be here?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I'm a little offended lad… after all these years under my flag you still think that I wouldn’t plan for this?...”
Captain Sail raised the lantern and swung it back and forth for a few seconds, then as the signal was seen, a large number of grappling hooks flew up from the darkness below as some missed their marks completely, others landed and hooked onto he vine bridge and even a few others hooked and latched onto the rail of the balcony above. As soon as the hooks locked onto the vines, Captain Sail smiled, “Early as usual, I can always count on Jimbo to be at the ready.” He looked to Powder Keg, “Get down to the Tide and help the crew aboard, I'll wait here till the last stallion is aboard.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’n, but what about Mr. Zeil?”
Clashes of weapons could be heard above as Captain Sail replied, “We will focus on us for now. I trust Sir Zeil will be about before we cast off. He got us this far, I'm sure he’ll see us out of here before too long”

Above on the balcony, Tempest kept up her offence as she jabbed, slashed, and thrusted the short spear she held as Zeil was able to deflect and sidestep every attack she attempted. As Zeil continued blocking the attacks The two locked weapons as Tempest spoke, “Your skilled, much more then you look. But that won't be enough to win!”
As that was said, Tempest pushed herself away as she jumped back a number of feet before bracing her hooves as she channeled lighting into her broken horn. As soon as Zeil saw this he realized what was happening as he quickly turned and began running towards the wooden gallows. Though she saw his actions she didn’t know his plan as Tempest then stomped the ground as the electricity from her horn pulsated through the wet balcony as the electricity flew towards Zeil in a wave motion. Knowing that this was her plan, Zeil finally approached the wooden gallows posts as he jumped up against the post then jumped higher off the post clearing the wave of lightning with his jump.

Adding to her plan, Tempest smiled, “Nowhere to run!”
With emphasis on her words, Tempest reared back her short spear and tossed it with deadly accuracy as the short weapon flew at the airborne changeling. Seeing the incoming projectile, Zeil rolled himself in the air and grabbed the weapon as the skillful changeling spun with the weapon’s motion then tossed the weapon back with accuracy that was just as deadly. By this time, Tempest had already begun another charge as she leaned to the side, catching his returned spear with her right hoof before turning it around and striking at the landing changeling while aiming for her heart. Although he had plenty of time to block or dodge the attack, Zeil instead raised the staff and blocked with the shaft as the blade from Tempest’s weapon embedded in the staff and split the weaved vines enough to expose the tip of the blade as this continued on and dug into Zeil’s chest, deep enough to draw blood, but not enough to mortally wound him. Please with her successful attack, Tempest smiled, “So… you’re mortal after all. Now it ends.”
Zeil reached up and grabbed her hoof along with the spear imbedded through his staff as he spoke, “The fight isn’t over… not yet.”

With his grip on her hoof that held the spear in his chest, Zeil released his staff and reached up wth his left hoof as he grabbed the back of her head before throwing his head forward, bashing it against her face as the unexpected attack stunned her long enough for Zeil to pull the weapon from his chest causing his staff to fall away as he spun her around and slammed her back against the gallows’ post as he pulled her hoof and weapon across her body and rested the blade against her neck in a way to pin her right hoof under the spear making it impossible to move or even break free from her position. With Tempest now pinned against the gallows at Zeil’s mercy, she took the time to try to struggle to free herself but when she realized it was no use, she sighed, “How pathetic… I dropped my guard for only a second then failed so easily.” She shook her head, “Well… I guess that’s all it takes. If you’re going to kill me then do it already. I admit defeat.”
With the blade fixed against her neck in a way that only a slight shift would be fatal, Zeil replied, “I would… but if I did, his imbalance would only tip further.”
Tempest was confused, “Imbalance?… what are you talking abou-“
“MAGE ZEIL!!!”

Confused, Tempest looked passed Zeil as he turned his head slightly to see King Typhen standing at the doorway to enter the tower as he held his sword and gave Zeil a determined look. Seeing this, Tempest spoke, “You Majesty… Get out of here… you can't win aga-“
Zeil applied pressure to the spear’s blade which cut slightly into her neck and silenced her at the same time as King Typhen saw this and replied, “I know what I'm doing Tempest… Just trust me.”
With that King Typhen started trotting towards Zeil as the changeling turned his head back to Tempest and spoke, “Listen to your king… it would seem he now understands everything.”
With that Zeil only held Tempest in place as King Typhen closed in with his weapon in hoof. Knowing the king’s intention Zeil paid him no mind as King Typhen stopped only a few paces away as he spoke, “Mage Zeil… tell me… is this your true name and title? Are you truly the Mage of Zebrica?”
Zeil didn’t even turn to look at him as he replied, “It is… and I am.”
King Typhen sighed, “I… I see…” He turned his swords around and placed the tip of the blade onto the ground in front of him as he bowed his head slightly, “Then… I King Typ- no King Savean of the storm kingdom… Humbly offer my surrender, and my most sincere apologies.”

Zeil’s expression didn’t change, however Tempest was shocked as she started to reply, “Your majesty… No, don’t give in to this monster. If you worry for my life then don’t, I'm a soldier and will fight till the e-“
“I will not be the fool of a king to start a war with the Mage of Zebrica! The Storm Kingdom has had its fill of foolish kings and I will not be its last.”
Tempest was confused, “Last?”
Zeil replied, “I'm guessing you’ve never heard of the Mage of Zebrica before. But… to fill you in… there have been more then a hundred mages throughout history. And at least five have removed full kingdoms from the map. All by their selves.”
Tempest gave him a distrusting glance, “What? You expect me to bel-“
King Typhen replied, “It’s true… and the most recent was the Pergola Village was it not Mage Zeil?”
Zeil nodded, “Six… I stand corrected.”
Knowing about the village, Tempests eyes widened in worry as the king continued, “Please… I offer my surrender in exchange for my kingdom. And… if your anger demands a life be taken, then I offer my own if… you can spare Commander Tempest in exchange. She was only following my order.”
Wanting him to say more, Zeil asked, “And why should I? It was her choice to follow your order and fight me.”

King Typhen understood as he replied, “I understand but… this is the second time I put her in danger. The first shattered her horn and sent her into a life of anger and resentment. One that… I am responsible for… I… I don’t want her to die because of my own cowardice. If she did… then I have no right to call her my friend… nor her to me. Please, I beg you… spare her in exchange for my life.”
Smiling at his answer, Zeil replied, “Good… then feel grateful… I won't take her life.” With a flick of his wrist, Zeil took the spear from Tempest’s throat and tossed it aside as it hit the edge of the balcony before sliding and stopping against the stone railing, “But I don’t intend to take yours in exchange. As I said to Tempest earlier, I only want my bag, then I'll leave this kingdom in peace.”
As Zeil stepped away from Tempest, she made her way to her king’s side as King Savean thought to himself, “I see… Tempest? Go get Mage Zeil’s possessions.”
Rubbing her neck were Zeil’s cuts were left Tempest went inside to retrieve Zeil’s bag as King Savean asked one last time, “Mage Zeil… I’ve heard a lot about the mage and how he only goes where balance is needed… so tell me… is there any other reason for your presence in my kingdom?... any at all?”
Zeil didn’t reply, instead he only smiled at the young king as Tempest returned with Zeil’s saddlebag as she spoke, “Here you are your Excellency… everything should still be there, but… I will go on record and say that I disagree with this decision. Even if he is the Mage of Zebrica… he is too dangerous to leave alive.”

King Savean took the saddlebag and nodded, “I agree that his presence and aura are troubling and… terrifying even. But if I understand the purpose of the mage enough, it’s that he only goes where balance is needed and hurts only those who threaten that balance or himself. Afterall… the world revolves around that balance…” He looked at Zeil, “Right Mage Zeil?”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “You will make a good king yet… just, build your own road and don’t try to ride on what’s already there.”
King Savean could only give Zeil a confused look as he approached the neck shackle he was wearing before. With one accurate stomp, Zeil stomped on the shackle right were the ever stone was embedded as the stone popped out of place and fell free of the iron shackle. Then using a cloth from his saddlebag, Zeil picked up the stone, wrapped it up safely, and secured it in his saddlebag as he spoke, “I hope you won't mind me borrowing this… something tells me that I may need it very soon.”
With his mind trying to understand Zeil’s words, King Savean didn’t pay much attention to his actions as the king nodded, “Yes of course, consider it whatever compensation we can offer for this whole mess.”
As Zeil closed his saddlebag he decided to pull out his cloak as he tied it around his neck and put the hood up to block at least some of the surrounding rain.

With that Zeil started trotting towards the balcony railing where he could see a grappling hook hanging from the ledge as he approached the hook and looked back one last time, “Commander Tempest… that was a good fight, any longer and I'm sure I would have been beaten. Let’s hope we don’t have to face each other again in the future.”
She nodded, “Yes… lets hope.”
He smiled, “Oh and one more thing… remember what I told you today… I'm sure it will benefit you in the future.”
She was confused, “What you told me… about what?”
He shrugged his shoulders, “Well… everything… just remember everything I’ve said today. And you will figure it out.”
Smiling Zeil grabbed the rope from the grappling hook as he slid down to the ship below.

Moments ago, on the Deck of the Bloody Tide, Captain Sail had just slid down the rope on the vine bridge to the ship as he stepped onto the deck as Jim Approached, “Welcome back aboard Captain… How was your shore leave?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Well my life was threatened multiple times, the food was crap, and not a drop of rum to be found… all in all, still not my worst time ashore. And you lad? How did the sea fair?”
Jim smiled, “As you can see the tide is still in good shape. I managed to keep her safe while you were ashore.”
Captain Sail chuckled as he looked around, “Well she is still afloat… that’s better than I was expectin’.”
Jim laughed back as he spoke, “Well Captain, Are we free to make way?”
Captain Sail shook his head, “Not so fast Jimbo. We still have to wait for Mage Zeil.”
Jim was confused, “Mage Zeil? Who is Ma- wait, you mean Sir Zeil? He was in there with you?”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye he was, but his new title is Mage. I hope ya show him proper respect. Seems he outranks even me now… well, on land that is.”

Just as that was said, Zeil slid down the rope from the balcony as he landed on the higher deck before looking down and speaking, “Captain! I'm here, and we are good to go.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good lad, any trouble?”
Zeil smiled, “More than I expected but nothing I couldn’t handle.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Then let’s make way.” He looked to Powder Keg, “Mr Keg? Give the order t-“
Before he could finish a loud booming sound was heard through the stormy darkness as a cannonball came down and crashed into the waters next to the Bloody Tide. As the wave came crashing down onto the deck. After the splash came down, Captain Sail looked into the darkness of the storm as he spoke, “What in the world?”
Jim spoke, “Hunters for hire, we sank two on the way in. Seems there are more about.”
Captain Sail replied, “Two? Really?”
Jim nodded, “What? Ya think I can't command the Tide during a battle?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Nah, I just assumed ya sink more, but two is good for ya first go.”
Jim shook his head as he smiled, “If there were more, I would have sunken more… can't blame me for their tardiness to the fight.”

Another cannonball flew in this time hitting a railing and sending splinters in the air as Captain Sail replied, “Not if we sink I can't.” He called “ALL HOOVES TO STATION!!! Pull in the anchor and loose the main sail! The storm is rough lads, don’t let it beach us against the cliffs.”
Captain Sail looked to Powder Keg, “Load all cannon… Chain. We don’t want to stay to fight and we don’t need to be followed.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye Capt’N we won't be.” He looked over the crew, “RIGHT LADS VACATION IS OVER!!! GET YA SORRY PLOTS IN GEAR AND LOAD THOSE GUNS!!! I wanna see chains a’flyin when captain gives his order! MOVE IT!!!”
With Powder Keg yelling his orders, Captain Sail trotted up to the deck as he looked to the helmscolt, “Pull her away and give us a straight heading west! The closest land other then here will be the isles outside of Equestria, or Equestria itself.”

Zeil who was standing nearby replied, “The king let me go and probably will pardon us both but I'm sure it only stands should we escape this place. I doubt his pardon will reach these hunters before they try to sink us.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye and it wouldn’t matter anyhow. Even if they haven’t been paid yet, any rookie hunter would kill for the reputation of sinking the Bloody Tide. It would boost their rates after all. But that goes without saying, this storm is swinging back out to sea. And I can guess by these winds that she will be a hurricane before too long.”
As the Bloody Tide started to swing around, one of the approaching hunter ships soon became visible through the storm as Captain Sail watched the ship approach from the port side as he smiled, “THEY ARE ALREADY IN LINE!!! FIRE!!!”

Above on the balcony of the Bastille, King Savean and Tempest trotted to the edge of the balcony as they looked down towards the ships below. With the darkness of the storm only allowing them to see the lit lanterns on deck and the muzzle flashes from the cannons, Tempest spoke, “Your majesty… should I order the ships to stop firing?”
He shook his head, “It wouldn’t matter… they are all hired gun who have already been paid, so even if we told them to stop, there is no guarantee they will. Besides, they are firing on the Bloody Tide, Captained by Captain Crimson Sail himself… with he and the Mage of Zebrica fighting… there isn’t a soul alive that can stop them.”
She looked back down just in time to see clearly that one of the Pirate hunter’s ships had caught fire as she nodded, “I see…”
As the two continued to watch, Grubber approached from behind as he spoke, “Commander I- oh, your majesty… I didn’t know you were here.”
Tempest turned to him, “What is it Grubber?”
He stood at attention, “The situation down stairs has calmed down now… but that Captain Sail and all of his pirates have escaped.”

King Savean spoke, “It’s as I expected… How many casualties are there?”
Grubber replied, “Well… there’s only one.”
Tempest replied, “One… who?”
Grubber took out a clipboard as he spoke, “Prisoner four five four… A Minotaur named… Axel.”
Tempest was surprised as King Savean looked at her, “Your informant I assume?”
She nodded, “Yes, he was the one feeding us information about Zeil.”
King Savean chuckled, “I see Captain Sail is a stallion of tradition. Every traitor he comes across meets a fate most terrible.”

Having seen Axel’s body, Grubber replied, “You could say that again.” He looked back to Tempest, “There are no other casualties. None of our guards or any other prisoners. But a few took some punches.”
King Savean shook his head, “Then we should count ourselves lucky… The mage is not one to trifle with, nor is the pirate of all pirates. Nevertheless, they were here for a reason, so perhaps we should focus on that for now.”
“What reason?”
He thought to himself, “The mage never goes anywhere unless balance is threatened… even if he doesn’t suspect it himself. But it doesn’t take the mage to realize that thing here need to change.” He looked to Grubber, “Its time I cast my own shadow and stop ruling in another’s. And we will start with the laws. Gather all law documents that were passed during the former storm king’s reign, and take them to the throne room.”
Tempest was shocked, “The throne room?”
He nodded, “Yes… time to change some laws the way a king should.”

As the king started trotting away Grubber replied, “Understood King Typhen I'll assis-“
“King Savean… I don’t want to hear the name Typhen ever again am I understood?”
Tempest could only smile as she spoke next, “I'll remain Tempest… but if you want… I don’t mind being called Fizzypop. Better we both carry on as our true selves.”
King Savean smiled as he nodded, “Then come along Fizzy… lets balance this kingdom as the mage wills it.”
as he started leaving, Tempest picked up the half spear that was laying against the balcony railing as she looked at the blade, “Did he will it… or… was there another reason he was here.” She thought to herself “Remember his words… what did he mean by that.”
As she turned to follow her king inside, Tempest accidently kicked something on the ground as she looked down to see the shattered stone remains of the once metal shackle that was on Zeil’s right hoof. Seeing this took Tempests focus for a second as she immediately remembered what he said as it echoed in her mind, “The only way to change a changeling into stone permanently is to first remove his ability to change. Even if it seems that they can no longer fight… the weakest changeling can change themselves back to normal… in time.”

As these words repeated in her mind, her eyes widened, “He was warning us…”
She looked to the king, “YOUR EXELENCY!”
He looked back as she spoke, “Permission to ready a ship for departure immediately!”
He was confused, “A ship? To where?”
She replied, “Equestria!”
Waving it off as if the concept was a fly, he replied, “Denied… I told you we should leave the Mage be. The further he is from here the better.”
She shook her head, “No that’s not it… he gave me a warning.”
“A warning?”
She replied with a serious tone, “Princess Twilight is in grave danger.”

Bk13/Ch5 An Unwelcomed “Welcome Home”

Bk13/Ch5
An Unwelcomed “Welcome Home”
(Year 09, Month 10, Day 17)

Zeil stumbled up the stairs as he climbed his way back onto the main deck of the Bloody Tide. With the hurricane still blowing around them, Zeil struggled to keep himself steady as he was met with a rushing wave as it ran over the deck nearly knocking him over. As the wave passed, Zeil made his way to the mast as he quickly grabbed a lifeline and tied it around himself as he looked to the main deck above as captain sail stood firm while yelling his order, “KEEP THAT SAIL UP!!! The winds are still too strong to let loose the main! We can only keep moving on the fore and aft sails!”
With the captain yelling orders, Zeil made his way onto the upper deck as Captain Sail smiled, “Ah mage Zeil… how was your rest?”
Zeil rubbed his head, “Noisy and nauseating… how long was I out?”
Captain Sail replied, “Little over half a day, ya couldn’t tell it from the storm but it’s about ten in the mornin’.”
Zeil was surprised, “Really? And the storm is still going on?”
Captain Sail smiled, “It’s a rough one, but she could last as long as a month. But no worries… she’s not merciful enough to end us here.”

He looked to Powder Keg who was also on the top deck as he called through the storm, “Mr. Keg! What’s the status on our pursuers?”
Powder Keg looked out passed the stern’s railing as the whipping winds and falling rain completely masked all visibility of the perusing vessels. The only thing visible were the lanterns that were lighting both sides of the bow, the stern, and the base of each mast. However as he saw the lights of the last perusing ship, he could make out their actions as the lights rolled over each other and vanished into the waves indicating the end of their pursuit. Seeing the lights vanish into the waves, Powder Keg called, “Capt’n! The storm seems to have claimed our pursuers! Looks like we managed to escape the Storm Kingdom after all! A fine story to tell the lasses waitin’ for us back at the cove aye?”
Captain Sail called, “We ain’t out of the storm yet Mr Keg.” He looked to the barrel colt, “Jimbo! Get your plot down here and secure your lifeline!” he looked at the rest of the ship, “That goes for the rest of you! Secure all lifelines and bring in the sails!”

Zeil spoke, “Captain! You need me to do anything?”
Captain Sail replied, “You did a fine job getting’ us out of that concrete box. So you can go below and rest more! I made a promise to get ya back to your lass, and I aim to keep it!”
At that moment a massive wave hit the ship from the starboard side as the water rushed over the deck causing a number of sailors to fall over and slide against the ships railings. Barely able to keep himself standing Zeil replied, “I appreciate it, but I'd rather help you out here! Just give the order and I'll follow it Captain!”
Smiling at the loyalty of his friend, Captain Sail replied, “Well, if ya have any magical mumbo jumbo that can help us out of the mess we’re in, then I’d be much obliged.”

The ship jerked at the impact of another wave as Zeil kept himself from falling over and replied, “I don’t have the ingredients to settle a storm…”
“Storm?... A storm is what we left rioting in that prison back there. This lad, is a hurricane! And a strong one at that.”
“A hurricane…”
“Aye lad, I smelt her miles off. Why do ya think I chose this as the day we busted out?”
The ship rocked again as a massive wave crashed against the other side tossing a few sailors onto the water as Captain Sail called, “COLTS OVERBOARD!!! Mr. Keg! See to your quartermaster duties!”
Powder Keg nodded and started trotting down to the main mast as he called to the crew, “Grab those lifelines and pull them back to the tide! Capt’n ain’t told you to take a break yet so get them back here and back to it!!!”
As Powder Keg worked to save the sailors, Zeil thought to himself as he spoke, “Actually I think I do know a spell that can help… but I'll need some sea water.”

Captain Sail gave him a dumb look as he replied, “Well help yourself laddie… ain’t like I got none to spar!”
Zeil nodded as he braced himself against a railing to look through his bag of ingredients, “By the way… We need to get to the eye of the hurricane!”
Captain Sail was confused, “The eye?... Granted it’s a sunny place to be, but the eye of a hurricane is the most dangerous place when you’re out at sea. Figured your memories of the mage pirate could tell you that.”
Zeil pulled out a jar and scooped up some water from a wave that crashed into the ship and ran across the deck as he replied, “It’s her memories of this spell that make me think of it. Trust me! I wouldn’t suggest it if it wasn’t crucial.”
Captain Sail saw the determined expression on the disguised face as he sighed, “Fine… but you better not lead us to our doom lad. I ain’t come this fare to die now.”

As Zeil used another empty jar he had to mix the ingredients needed, Captain Sail looked to the main deck to see his crew as they finished recovering the overboard sailors. Then he called, “Quit you’re slouchin’ and open all sails!”
Though many were exhausted and annoyed to be accused of slouching, they still nodded their heads as they went back to work while Powder Keg called, “You heard the capt’n get your sorry jailbird plots back to it!”
As the crew started unfurling the sails, Powder Keg rushed to the main deck, “Sorry to question you capt’n… but what’s the plan? If we keep the sails open in a storm like this, the wind will tear ‘em to shreds.”
Captain Sail nodded, “Aye I know, but we need to get to the eye of the storm. Our enchanter friend has a spell that can help.”
Powder Keg looked at Zeil and nodded, “Do ya now?”
Zeil finished placing all the ingredients in a jar as he closed the lid and started shaking it up, “Well… more or less.”
Both officers spoke, “WHAT!?!”

The now nervous Zeil shrugged his shoulders and he replied, “Well… it should work, though I’ve never attempted it before. I'd say… maybe a fifty-fifty… or… thirty-seventy.”
At that moment the sailors trying to unfurl the sails on the first mast lost grip of the leads as the sail fell open causing the wind to catch it with so much force that the mast started cracking as the fore-mast crumbled and fell over the portside of the ship. Seeing this the sailors quickly worked to cut the tied lines so it wouldn’t roll them over as the mast passed by the upper deck of the ship. Knowing that they were now in the thick of it, Captain Sail looked at his missing mast as he looked back at Zeil and replied, “I’ll take those odds.”
With that the captain turned the ship into the wind so that it could catch the sails slowly and bring them closer to the eye of the storm. As the Bloody Tide eased closer and closer to the eye, the waves started to get fiercer as the crew tried all they could to keep themselves aboard. Finally as they continued, they could see a light through the darkness of the storm as Captain Sail called, “There she is lad… the eye! Are ya ready for what you need mage?”

The Enchanter looked at the jar of ingredients as it started to glow with the same color as the sun’s light before replying, “Not yet… we need to break through the wall of the eye, we aren’t close enough yet.”
With this, the captain looked forward as he saw a massive wave that towered hundreds of feet high coming right towards them as the size of the wave blocked out what light they could see from the approaching eye. Seeing this, Captain Sail called, “ALL HOOVES BRACE YOURSELVES FOR A CLIMB!!!”
Seeing the incoming wave, the crew immediately grabbed onto masts, railings, and anything they could hold onto as the Bloody Tide hit the wave and began its clime. As the Tide climbed, the ships deck started to rise higher from the front as cargo lines started to break loose causing unsecured cargo to fall passed ship’s Captain and into the sea behind them. Luckily with the wind pushing against the remaining two masts, The Bloody Tide was able to push through the crest of the wave as the crew looked over the other side to see what would make them all nervous. When they reached the top, Captain Sail looked over to see that not only was the wave massive to climb, but on the opposite side it was almost twice its height as the Bloody Tide slowly caressed the top of the wave before tilting forward as Captain Sail called, “EVERYPONY HOLD ON!!!”

Doing as they were told, every sailor on the ship braced themselves as the Bloody Tide started careening down the massive wave as its speed quickly increased causing everypony aboard to feel worried as they all started screaming in fear from their semi freefall from the top of a tsunami. As the ship fell, the winds started increasing more and more as Captain Sail looked to the sails to see that now instead of pushing from behind, the winds were now coming from in front as he could hear stress in the ships masts starting to increase with their speed. As the ship fell with the crew screaming in fear, they all braced themselves as the stem of the Bloody Tide crashed into the water of the next wave as hundreds of gallons of water rushed over the deck hitting both the crew and sails as the impact caused the Main mast to snap and crash into the aft mast as both started to give way and lean towards the ship’s captain and helm. Seeing the falling objects, Captain Sail quickly released the helm and jumped out of the way as the aft-mast fell in and crushed the helm snapping it from its base and causing the rudder chain to fall free of its supports. As soon as the masts hit, the sun started shining down onto the Bloody Tide as Zeil spoke, “NOW!!!”

With that, the Zebrican mage threw the shining glass vile against the deck as it shattered and sent the glowing contents to shoot up from the deck as it flew into the sky causing a massive barrier to form behind the Bloody Tide as it spread across the wall of the eye causing all the waters in the sea within the eye immediately settled down as if the storm had completely ceased. With the waters inside the eye calm, Powder Keg helped Captain Sail to his hooves as the old sailor looked around, “What?... what in the leviathans graces did you do?”
With the ship now calm and all the sailors checking themselves for wounds, Zeil spoke, “That’s a very special spell used for sailing. It makes the sea within the eye of a hurricane as calm as its weather.”
Powder Keg replied, “There ain’t no such thing. The eye is the most dangerous part of a storm. Every sailor knows that.”
Zeil pointed behind the Bloody Tide, “See for yourself.”

With that, the entire crew looked behind them as they saw a massive barrier wall and large crashing waves on the opposite side as they collided with the barrier as if it were a massive sea wall. Seeing this, Powder Keg took back his last statement, “Okay… maybe it does exist.”
Captain Sail looked to Zeil and asked, “So… how long does this spell last.”
The zebra replied, “About twelve hours or so… but… it follows the storm so at the rate it’s moving… we
have about thirty minutes before its back on top of us.”
Captain Sail looked at the damaged helm as he replied, “Aye… and without any masts, sails or even a helm… we’re caught dead in the water.”
Powder Keg started to ask, “So… what do we do ca-“
“Captain! Island of the bow!”

At that moment the entire crew looked ahead as they slowly saw an island emerge from the opposite side of the eye as Captain Sail smiled, “Looks like luck is on our side.”
He looked at Powder Keg, “Mr. Keg ready the long boats and load everypony aboard… its time… to abandon the Tide.”
Powder Keg thought he heard wrong, “What… abandon th-“
Seeing that they were wasting time, Captain Sail called over the ship, “Ready the long boats and prepare to abandon ship!”
Jim replied with concern, “Abandon the Tide?... But captain w-”
“Now don’t be givin’ me that look. The Bloody Tide has taken us through a lot. And though we have sailed her through all seven circles of hell, we can’t forget that she is over fifty years old…” He placed his hoof on the side railing, “She’s tired… and… I feel it’s time we let her rest. I'll give ya four minutes to get the boat ready. Work smartly and g-”

At that moment, Captain Sail thought he heard a faint but familiar sound from beyond the barrier as he looked at the magical sea wall in confusion. As he looked at the wall, Powder Keg felt concerned, “Capt’n you alright?”
Confused Zeil watched Captain Sail’s expression as his emotions shifted, first to concern, then to confusion and final acceptance as Powder Keg spoke, “Capt’n?”
Snapping out of it, Captain Sail looked at Powder Keg and replied, “Get these sailors on that boat as soon as you can… I… need to retrieve some things first.”
With that, Captain Sail made his way into his cabin as Powder Keg looked around and spoke, “You lot ready the boat on the port side, Mr Zeil help me here, we need to ready this boat to launch. As Zeil helped the crew ready the boat, Zeil looked to Powder Keg as he spoke, “Mr. Keg… The captain’s expression… have you ever seen him like that before?”

Powder Keg shook his head, “No… whatever it was, it concerned him a bit… and nothing concerns Captain Sail.”
Zeil asked, “Should we be worried?”
Powder Keg shook his head, “The capt’n has made many decisions through the years. Some odd, and many downright daft. But through them all, Captain Sail has always made his decisions with his crew in mind. So no matter what’s on his mind… I will stand with him in his next decision.”
Zeil smiled, “I agree… but… remember whatever his next action is… he will expect loyalty as our response.”
Feeling an odd sense of foreshadowing in his tone, Powder Keg could only nod as they along with many more of the crew finished raising the longboat over the railing as it hung alongside the Bloody Tide just above the calm waters below. Once the boat was ready, Powder Keg gave his order, “All crew gather into the boats! Portside can lower once full but the starboard needs to wait for the captain!”

After the first boat was lowered, the crew worked carefully to load the second as Captain Sail exited his cabin. As Zeil looked to Captain Sail he was surprised by his appearance. Before, Captain Sail entered his cabin wearing only a simple brown vest. But now along with his vest, Captain Sail wore a black tricorn hat, a crimson cape, and a belt with a sheathed dagger on his side. Over his shoulder was a draped black flag which Zeil could only assume was the Crimson Pirates Jolly Roger. With the last of the crew piling into the boat, Zeil also climbed in as Powder Keg looked to his captain and smiled, “Seeing ya like that captain… brings back all sorts of memories.”
Captain Sail smiled, “Good, then be sure to pass them on…”
Before Powder Keg could reply, Captain Sail looked at his changeling friend as he spoke, “Mage Zeil?”
Zeil replied, “Yes captain?”
Captain Sail smiled, “I apologies, I can’t see ya back to Equestria like I said… but at least you’re much closer now than before. When you meet with your lass, be sure to hold her close and never let go. Take it from an old fool, if she is the one… don’t let her slip away.”

Feeling the captain’s emotions told Zeil exactly what was going to happen next as he nodded with Powder Keg replying to his earlier statement, “Capt’n? What did you mean by… pass it on?”
Captain Sail smiled, “Its time I meet with the lass. So… my last order to you… Get this crew to safety.”
Powder Keg was confused but before he could reply, Captain Sail drew his dagger and swung the blade as it cut the hoists holding the boat up as the long boat fell into the water ten feet below with a splash. As the boat rocked to the impact, Powder Keg called up to the main deck, “Capt’n! Don’t do this please come with u-”
Captain Sail interrupted in anger, “You ain’t captain enough to give me orders Mr. Keg! Now get that boat to that island now or so help me, I'll use these cannons to BLAST YOU ALL TO KINGDOM COME!!!”
Seeing the anger in their captain’s eyes made it clear that this was what he wanted as Powder Keg sighed, “God speed Capt’n.” he looked over the boat, “Let’s go lads, Capt’n Gave his orders and this storm ain’t gonna wait for us!”

With that the long boats started rowing towards the island as Captain Sail smiled and spoke silently, “Good luck lads… it’s been a pleasure sailin’ with ya…”
As the two boats rowed away from the Bloody Tide, Zeil held his silence as Powder Keg asked, “Mage Zeil… what you said earlier… did you know the captain would choose to stay behind?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… but when the captain looked out to sea before he went into his cabin there was a sense of peace on his mind. I’ve felt it before, but usually on those who choose to sacrifice themselves for another purpose.”
Powder Keg was surprised, “An emotions of one who is sacrificing himself?... exactly how many times have you felt this emotion?”
Zeil sighed, “Too many times… in just the last decade alone. Far too many times.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Whenever we made port, Captain Sail had a number of pirate rivals that he occasionally spared with out of sheer impulse. His main rule was always the same… Captain’s fight be his fight… meaning we can watch, but we must stay out of it. I know that look on his face… that dagger in his hoof… this is a fight he has been waiting for a long time.”
Zeil replied, “Then… I guess it’s good that we are following his final order. He was always a fan of loyalty.”
Powder Keg shrugged his shoulders, “Aye… we all have loyalty for our captain… Just as… he had loyalty to his crew… you included. I’ve heard him say a number of times that if every you wanted, you would have a place aboard the Tide. In fact after that scuffle at the Bastille, I think you are just as much a member of this pirate crew as I.”

As Zeil looked back to the Bloody Tide, he saw Captain Sail raise the Crimson Jolly Roger on the toppled mast as he picked up the damaged helm and held it as if it were still operational. While standing at the helm Captain Sail could only smile, “Looks like this storm will be merciful after all… I'm ready lass, sing me your song.”
Back on the long boats, Zeil and the rest of the pirates watched, as the barrier encasing the Eye of the hurricane crossed over the Bloody Tide’s bow as a cradled wave on the opposite side, dipped the Bloody Tide downward, as it pulled the ship out of the eye and back into the rough seas outside. With the rowing of the two boats slowing, most of the sailors looked towards the Bloody Tide as the vessel vanished into the darkness of the surrounding hurricane, leaving only a faint light from the toppled mast lantern which also vanished a few moments later. As the Bloody Tide was last seen entering the storm, Powder Keg stood up in the boat, removed the bandanna on his head and placed it over his heart before bowing his head, as every sailor aboard the two long boats did the same leaving all members of the Crimson Pirates paying respect to their captain’s final decision. After a moment of silence, Powder Keg spoke, “Be proud lads… be proud that on this day, you were the last sailors to sail under the greatest sailor and pirate on the sea. We can take pride, knowing he went down with his ship, with cannons loaded and at the helm.”
Remembering the story, Zeil nodded, “Just as she did… Siren.”

Powder Kegs smiled as he put the bandanna back on his head, “Aye, just like the lass.” He looked to the land, “Work smartly lads!... Captain may be gone but I'll see his order through.”
The sailors in both boats worked hard to row the two boats back to shore as fast as they could. When the two long boats arrived, some of the sailors climbed out and tried to pull them in as Powder Keg stopped them, “Leave ‘em! We need to find a shelter soon before the eye moves too close.”
One of the sailors spoke up, “Mr. Keg! I know this beach! We are on the coast near Filleydelphia!”
Jim replied with surprise, “What? Are you sure?”
The stallion nodded, “Aye… I grew up near here.”
Powder Keg smiled as he looked to Zeil, “Hear that Mage? Seems Captain Sail kept his word after all.”
Zeil smiled, “He did… I'm back… Equestria.”

Powder Keg looked to the sailor, “You’re from here? Any hurricane shelters nearby?”
The sailor nodded, “Aye sir, there is one just down the shore. Follow me!”
Powder Keg nodded as he called, “Lets make for the shelter lads. While the eye is still upon us.”
Moving with haste, the crew of sailors followed the local as he showed them to a large bunker-like building that sat on the top of a high hill. As the group of pirates approached the large steel doors, Powder Keg knocked on them as they slowly opened as a unicorn looked at them and spoke, “What? A group of castaways? How did you make it to shore in one piece?”
Powder Keg replied, “Our ship went down with our captain just off the coast. We managed to make it ashore, but the eye is over us and it will pass soon. Let us in.”
The unicorn nodded as he opened the doors and allowed them to pass, “Of course… there should be room in the back off the shelter. Rest back there and we can bring you some blankets if you need them.”

As the crew entered, Zeil could see a large open bay filled with refugees that stretched throughout the entirety of the massive underground bunker. With a long open path leading all the way to the back of the shelter, Zeil, Powder Keg, Jim and the rest of the Crimson Pirates made their way down the aisle as they paid little attention to the surrounding refugees. Not far off the aisle, next to a second large set of massive iron doors, A familiar mare stood next to the city mayor as the mayor spoke, “I want to thank you once again. If I had let this little squabble between me and Caretaker continue. Then the zoo animals would have been left out to fend for themselves in this storm.”
The mare smiled, “Friends don’t always agree on everything. But if we let our disagreement effect our responsibilities then we may overlook those who rely on us for protection. I'm just grateful we were able to convince you before the hurricane hit the mainland.”
The mayor nodded, “Yes, and thanks to the Princess of Friendship, we can now ensure the animals are safe till this storm passes. Once again, thank you, Princess Twilight.”

At that moment, the large iron doors opened, as an earth pony, Two changelings, and a yellowish pegasus exited as Princess Twilight looked at the pegasus and spoke, “Fluttershy, are the animals alright?”
As they closed the large iron doors, Fluttershy replied, “oh yes, we made sure they were all extra comfy for their stay. And with Thorax and Ocellus’s help. We were able to calm them down before putting them away in their pens.”
The younger reformed changeling spoke, “You were the one who convinced them to come quietly. I don’t think the tigers would have agrees if not for your stare.”
The older changeling smiled, “I guess it was a good idea that the map wanted us to come along too. Even though we did little to convince the mayor he was overreacting.”
The earth pony replied as he placed his arm around the mayors shoulder, “Well at any rate, you helped me and the mayor Frank make up with enough time to save the animals. Thanks to you four, the Fillydelphia Zoo will be in business once the storm blows over. Thank you all, for your help.”
Princess Twilight replied, “Thank the map, it’s what guided us here in the first pla-“

As that was said, Flutterhy’s cutiemark and the orbs on Ocellus’s chest started glowing brightly as Fluttershy looked to her cutiemark and smiled, “looks like we are finished here.”
As Ocellus looked at her chest she too smiled, “I guess that’s mission accomplished.”
However, as Princess Twilight looked at her cutiemark she was confused, “What? Looks like I'm not finished here just yet.”
Thorax looked at his chest as he nodded, “Me neither… but, what else is there for us to do? The animals are safe, and the mayor and zoo keeper made up and are friends again.”
Ocellus thought to herself as she started to reply, “I'm not sure, is there another friendship problem nearb-“

All of a sudden, Ocellus paused as she looked away from the group as Thorax saw her expression and spoke, “Ocellus? What’s wrong?”
Ocellus replied, “There is another changeling here…”
Thorax started to reply, “Really? I didn’t know there were any changeling in- … wait…” he looked across the area at Zeil who was trotting by in the center aisle, “It… it can't be.”
Making his way through the crowded bay, Thorax stepped into the aisle a number of paces behind the moving pirates as he looked at Zeil and spoke, “Z-Zeil?”
As soon as his name was said, Zeil paused as he immediately sensed the changeling behind him as he slowly turned to his brother and spoke, “Thorax?”
Thorax smiled, “It’s really you! Brother it’s been a long time.”
Zeil started to reply with a smiled, “It has, it’s good to see-“

All of a sudden, Princess Twilight, Fluttershy, and Ocellus finished making their way into the aisle behind Thorax as they came into Zeil’s view. As soon as the princess saw him, she recognized Zeil’s zebra appearance as she spoke in disbelief, “Z-Zine?”
Zeil’s expression became furious as he replied, “You…”
As Zeil glared at Princess Twilight, the room seemed to fill with an unmistakable aura of darkness as the rest of the pirate crew felt it and turned to them as they all gathered behind Zeil as Powder Keg tapped his musket on the ground before speaking, “Mage Zeil… I see you’ve met the ruler of Equestria… She isn’t bothering you… is she?”
Another Sailor spoke, “Mage Zeil is a friend of the Crimson Pirates. Any who stand against him, stands against us.”
Jim spoke next, “Even a princess.”
Twilight was surprised, “M-mage? Zine… is the Mage of Zebrica?”
Thorax was confused, “Zine?… wait…” he looked at Zeil, “You’re Zine? The Changeling of the Everfree Forest?”

Zeil gave Thorax a curious look, “Changeling of the Everfree? I didn’t realize I was famous.”
Twilight started to speak, “When you left I-“
“I don’t want to hear anything from you! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO EVEN SPEAK TO ME!!!”
Hearing the anger in Zeil’s voice echoing through the shelter, Twilight silenced herself as Fluttershy hid behind her in worry. Ocellus on the other hand stepped forward as she spoke, “That’s not fair. Princess Twilight is on-“
Zeil looked to Ocellus and interrupted, “This doesn’t concern you little-“
As soon as he saw the young changeling, Zeil paused with surprise. Confused, Zeil looked to Thorax who knew what he was thinking as Thorax shook his head to keep quiet as Zeil looked back to Ocellus and finished, “… one. But I feel justified in my anger towards this… princess. So if it’s all the same… I’d rather continue this conversation with only silence from her.”
Although she felt insulted, Princess Twilight agreed that she had wronged him as she looked to Ocellus and replied, “Maybe its best we excuse ourselves for now and let Thorax and Zine-em… Mage Zeil catch up.”

With that, Princess Twilight, Fluttershy and Ocellus left the area as Thorax spoke, “Zeil… that seemed a little harsh don’t you think?”
Zeil replied with distain, “I have my reasons, you on the other hoof seem real chummy with her.”
Thorax nodded, “Well, we have you to thank for that.”
Zeil was confused, “me?”
Thorax nodded, “Yea, when the wedding attack failed, I went into hiding and eventually gained the courage to announce that I was going to be a friend to the ponies. And when a dragon friend helped me plea my case to Prince Armor he didn’t even question it. He immediately accepted me as a friend without even a hint of skepticism.”
Zeil didn’t like hearing Shining Armor’s name but he still replied with surprise, “That so…”
Thorax nodded, “Yea, I didn’t question it at the time. But later I asked why he accepted me so casually, and they said it was because a changeling in the Everfree forest saved him from the lingering effects of Queen Chrysalis’s spell. They said that Zine, the Changeling of the Everfree Forest saved shinning armor’s life and the life of a guard sent to capture him. Because this changeling proved that not all changelings are bad, they decided that if more came forward claiming that they were good, then they wouldn’t question it.”

Zeil replied with anger in his tone, “And did he tell you what happened to the changeling of the Everfree? Did they even admit their fault in the situation there?”
Thorax replied with concern, “What… exactly happened there?”
Wanting to forget it, Zeil waved it off, “Forget it… for now… tell me about that young changeling your with.”
Thorax replied, “You mean Ocellus?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… her… does… she even know who she is?”
Thorax sighed, “No… we wanted her to be an ambassador to the ponies from the Changeling Kingdom. That means we allowed her to grow up in their school and learn from their culture so that when she was ready, she will be better suited to lead.”
Zeil shook his head, “So, you’ve just lied to her this whole time?”
Thorax shook his head, “Well no we just haven’t told her yet. We want to wait for the right time.”
Zeil replied, “A queen should know that she may need to take command of a swarm someday. It’s not fair to keep it from her. Especially since, she is technically Queen Chrysalis’s daughter, and the heir to our swarm.”

Thorax nodded as he looked down in disappointment, “I know… but we both know that if she take control of the swarm without building a good relationship with other races, then we could be putting another Chrysalis on the throne.”
Zeil sighed, “I guess you’re right, but if she is standing up for Princess Twilight, despite her ignorance, then obviously her relationship is good with the ponies. So am I to assume you rule the Changeling Kingdom for now?”
Thorax nodded, “Yea, after the queen attacked the second time, the rest of the swarm decided to stop fighting ponies and to befriend them instated.”
Zeil smiled, “So our swarm is now reformed too? I'm glad… even if I have no interest in returning to them. It’s good to see they have a brighter future.”
Thorax was surprised, “What? You’re not rejoining the swarm?”
Zeil shook his head, “No, I didn’t come back for the swarm. I left that life behind, now… I'm only back for her.”
Thorax was confused, “Her?... wait… you mean Queen Chrysalis!?!”

With his surprise, Thorax’s voice echoed in the room as Zeil felt nervous, “What? No, no, not her. I meant Zecora.”
Relived Thorax sighed with relief, “Oh… good… I was worried there for a second. Also you know that Queen Chrysalis is turned to stone, right?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Yea… about that… Where is she right now?”
Thorax replied, “The Canterlot garden. That’s where Princess Celestia had her put.”
Zeil asked, “And that doesn’t concern you?”
Thorax felt confused, “No… I'm pretty sure the spell used on her is strong. Why do you ask?”
Zeil thought to himself for a few second before disregarding it as he replied, “No reason… nothing too concerning for now anyway.”
That said Zeil looked towards Twilight as he spoke, “Either way, what’s with this whole princess thing with Twilight Sparkle? Since when was she an alicorn?”

Thorax replied, “Well it’s a long story but to shorten it, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna went into retirement and left their kingdom to Princess Twilight.”
Zeil was confused, “Why didn’t they just give it to Princess Mie-amor Cadenza? She is the actual alicorn here.”
Thorax replied, “Well, because they rule the Crystal Empire now.”
Remembering the name from a past mage’s memories, Zeil replied, “So the Cristal Empire is back is it. Well seems life is just that unfair.”
Thorax was confused, “Unfair? What do you mean?”
Zeil replied with distain, “Both of them are responsible for the past ten years of my life… they unjustly sent me clear across the world and their reward… a kingdom, and an empire.”
Thorax didn’t reply, instead he only gave Zeil a confused look, as Zeil sighed, “Never mind… I’m just complaining now. Guess I'll just have to look passed i- actually… No. No I'm going to deal with this myself.”

Zeil looked passed Thorax as he spoke, “Twilight Sparkle.”
Feeling somewhat nervous, Princess Twilight approached as Zeil spoke with authority, “Your brother, Prince Armor… He is the ruler of the Cristal Empire?”
She nodded as she replied, “Yes, he is.”
Zeil nodded, “Then we are going to go see him.”
Both Thorax and Twilight were surprised as they replied at the same time, “WHAT?”
Zeil replied, “You both wronged me… and I will not stand for it… not until this matter is balanced. We are going to go see him… and I want you to come too… but even if you don’t… I will be speaking to Shinning Armor, with or without you.”

Bk14/Ch1 A Prince's Crime

Bk14/Ch1
A Prince’s Crime
(Year 09, Month 11, Day 14)

The lone traveler made his way across the frozen landscape as the cold wind blew over the snow covered wasteland. As the cloaked stallion climbed to the top of a snowy dune, he looked across the way as he could see the Crystal Empire in the distance as he smiled through his shivering, “There it is… the Crystal Empire… I’ve finally made it after all this time… I fina-“
All of a sudden, a train whistle blew as the traveler looked to the side to see a steam train bellowing down the rails as it flew passed the dune he was standing on and continued on its path across the snowy landscape. As the train passed, the traveler sighed in disappointment, as he watched the fast moving mode of transportation continue towards the Crystal Empire.

On the train, Zeil watched out the window of a cabin as he saw the traveler and smiled, “Boy am I glad I decided to take the train instead of traveling by hoof. I’ve had enough frozen wastelands for one lifetime.” He looked at the seat across form him, “Right Thorax?”
Thorax, who was sitting across from Zeil in the cabin, only smiled slightly and nodded, before his expression sank back to worry. Seeing this, Zeil’s smile also faded as his eyes shifted to Princess Twilight who sat next to him with an expression that looked more like she was a prisoner then an accompanying guest. With little concern for her, Zeil looked back out the window as he spoke, “Penny for your thoughts brother?”
Thorax replied with worry, “What do you intend to do… when we see Prince Armor?”
Zeil replied, “I intend on telling him what he needs to hear… which is exactly what I’ve been through this past decade… what he…” he looked at Princess Twilight, “And you… forced me into.”
As Zeil started looking back out the window, Princess Twilight wanted to speak, but in fear of angering him more, she held her silence as Thorax could tell what she wanted to say as he asked for her, “What did you go through this past decade?”
Zeil shook his head, “You will find out… when we speak with Prince Armor.”

Trying to change the subject, Zeil asked, “So… Princess? How do you know about the Mage? Did you study him at some point?”
Speaking carefully, Princess Twilight replied, “I did, but it wasn’t until I got a letter from Somnambula that I started looking into the subject.”
Zeil smiled, “Oh, you know Somnambula? How is she doing? I haven’t seen her since I helped her solve the mystery of Duet a number of years ago.”
Twilight smiled briefly, “She’s doing fine, but… is… is it true about the mage? Did he really destroy her home?”
Zeil nodded as he looked out the window into the snow, “Yes… she did.”
Twilight continued, “And… did the mage really destroy the Wooden Pergola Village?”
Zeil nodded again, “Yes… I did.”

Thorax was shocked, “What? You destroyed them? But… why?”
Zeil replied with a dark tone, “Doesn’t matter… to maintain balance, it had to be done.”
Thorax’s eyes widened, “Wait… is that what you intend to do when you see Shining Armor?”
All of a sudden, Princess Twilight started to feel worried as Zeil sensed this and replied, “Don’t jump to conclusions… I have no intention of hurting anypony today, so don’t worry too much. That said… the young queen and that timid pegasus… why did you send them back to Canterlot?”
Thorax replied, “Well since they didn’t need to come, we thought it would be better for them to go back without us. What about that pirate crew you were with?”
Zeil sighed in disappointment, “Well, with Captain Sail gone with his ship, The Crimson Pirates have no choice but to go their separate ways, Jim is returning to Princess Skystar at Mount Eris, Powder Keg is going back to Pirates Cove to pass on the bad news, and the rest are going back to whatever lives they had before.” He looked out the window in disappointment, “I knew Captain Sail, he was a good stallion and a good friend, and even if he accepted his fate, it’s a shame to see a living legend die before your eyes. I just hope he found peace in his final moments, he deserved that much.”

As Zeil looked out the window into the snowstorm, Thorax could feel his sadness as he spoke, “You’ve changed… you used to seem so intelligent and cold at the same time. It was almost as if you had no conscience at all. You followed every order Queen Chrysalis gave without question, and… without compassion.”
Zeil smiled, “You talk as If I were some sort of robot. I admit I was a little too loyal for my own good, but… now I know my fault. And you, little timid Thorax who wouldn’t step on a bug let alone invade a kingdom. And now he rules the entire changeling kingdom all by himself. I would have expected Phalanx would try to over throw you by now.”
Thorax chuckled, “Well… he did try to hold an election to take over the throne… five times… but the rest of the swarm agree that I was the better drone for the position. If you were there though, no doubt you would be better suited for the position. You were the Queens favorite after all.”
Zeil nodded, “Phalanx was the strongest of us… no doubt about that, and I was the smarter one, but… let’s face it. The swarm needs more then brain or brawn. They need heart, and you have always had that over all of us. Even Apex couldn’t hold a candle to you.”

Thorax’s smiled faded as he replied, “On that subject… we heard about what happened to Supersonic.”
Twilight started to asked, “Supersonic? Who is tha-“
At that moment, Zeil punched the window pane next to the window as the loud knock was enough to silence her and prevent Thorax from answering. With the dark aura starting to fill the cabin, Zeil answered with an enraged voice, “My brother… who died helping me escape the Land of the Black Sand. If I wasn’t there… if you hadn’t sent me there… he would still be alive today.”
Feeling somewhat responsible Princess Twilight looked down and held her silence as a conductor knocked on the cabin door and spoke, “Princess Twilight, We are arriving at the Crystal Empire Terminal.”
Snapping out of it, she looked to the door and spoke to the conductor who could hear through the door, “Thank you for letting us know.”
As she looked back to Zeil, the mage sighed one last time before standing up, “Seems its time… Princess? Lead the way to the castle.”

After that was said, Princess Twilight, Zeil, and Thorax left the cabin just as the train came to a complete stop. As the three trotted out onto the terminal, Zeil took only one step onto the platform as he immediately paused. As Twilight and Thorax noticed his hesitation Thorax spoke, “You alright Zeil?”
Zeil hesitated for a second longer before nodded, “Yes… I'm fine. This is the Crystal Empire?”
Princess Twilight nodded as she replied, “Yes it is.”
Zeil continued, “And Shining Armor rules it… along with his Princess Mie-amor Cadenza?”
Thorax nodded, “Well, we just call her Princess Cadence but that about sums it up. Why?”
Zeil thought to himself, “That explains this feeling.”
Princess Twilight asked, “Feeling? What feeling?”
Zeil shook his head, “Nothing too concerning… let’s just continue to the palace. I think I already know what it is, I just have to take it up with the problem personally.”
After the trio left the terminal they made their way through the Crystal Empire with many stepping aside and greeting the group as a princess and her entourage would be greeted.

As the trio approached the castle doors, the guards greeted them as one spoke, “Welcome Back to the Crystal Empire Princess Twilight, we were not expecting you to visit anytime soon.”
Princess Twilight felt uneasy as she replied, “Yea… well… this visit was a little unexpected. Is my brother here?”
The guard nodded, “Yes, his majesty is in the Throne room with the royal family. Allow me to escort you th-“
She waved her hoof dismissively, “No need for that Captain Sentry, we can see our way on our own.”
Confused, the captain looked to Zeil, whose face was hidden under the hood of his cloak, then to Thorax who like Twilight held an uneasy expression as the guard nodded, “I see…”
As the three started to continue, the skeptic soldier stopped them, “Wait… Princess… that Zebra? Is he with you?”
Princess Twilight nodded as Sentry pressed more, “Sir… Can I please asked you to introduce yourself?”
Acting polite, Zeil nodded, “Of course… My name is Mage Zeil of Zebrica… or… perhaps Sir Zeil of Lilith would seem more formal… To be honest, I'm not much for formality so just call me Zeil.”

Unsure the guard thought to himself, “Zeil…”
Trying to hurry things along Princess Twilight spoke, “Let’s continue, the sooner we speak with my brother, the soo-”
“Your majesty?”
Twilight looked to the guard as he continued, “Is, everything all right? Are you sure you don’t want me to escort you?”
Twilight shook her head, “Thanks… but it may be better if you stayed here.”
The guard still felt unsure but he knew it wasn’t his place to argue with royalty so he nodded, “Very well, if you say so.”
With that said, the trio left the concerned guard at his post as they went through the corridor to the throne room.

As the three finally reached the throne room, they entered to see two thrones at the end of the room with Shining Armor sitting in one and Princess Cadence standing in front of the other as she spoke to a young alicorn filly between them, “Now focus… channel all your magic into your horn and picture something bright shining in the room, the sun is a good example, envision that.”
As soon as that was said, the young princess closed her eyes as she focused hard enough to cringe her face. As she tried to focus, a dim light started to emerge from the tip of her horn, then after a second the light grew brighter and brighter until finally the filly used all she had as the light went out and she stopped focusing to catch her breath. Excited the filly started jumping around in joy as she cheered, “Yay! I did it, I did it!”
At that moment, the filly noticed Twilight as she rushed to her side, “Aunt Twili! Did ya see? Did ya see? I casted aluminum… alumina- um…”
Zeil smiled as he corrected her, “Illumination… is the word I believe you’re looking for young princess. And if I must say, a spell that complex for one so young… you truly are your father’s daughter.”
Even though she didn’t know him, the filly smiled at the praise as she replied, “Yep, Daddy and mommy are teaching me magic, and soon, I'll be just as good as Aunt Twilli.”

Zeil smiled as he replied, “Is that so, then I hope you study hard. Trust me… if anyone knows how good Princess Twilight is at magic?” his tone changed as he looked at Twilight, “It’s me…”
Feeling the unexpected hostility, the young princess gave Zeil a confused look as Shining Armor smiled as he stood, “Twili! It’s good to see y-“
Before he could begin to trot towards them, Twilight’s uneasy expression stopped him as he could sense the tension building in the air. Pausing at the foreboding feeling, Prince Armor looked to Thorax next who shared the same expression of unease, then he looked to Zeil, who was in the middle of putting his hood down as the zebra disguised guest smiled, “Prince Shining Armor… It’s been a while, I can see you’ve aged well these pasted ten years.”
Not recognizing the zebra disguise, Shining Armor gave him a confused look as Princess Cadence Spoke, “Honey? Do you know him?”
Shining Armor shook his head, “Honestly… I don’t.” He spoke up to address Zeil, “I apologies… I don’t seem to remember you… have we met before?”
Zeil looked at his hoof as he smile, “Oh… my mistake, I never met you with this form before, have I. How’s this?”
That said, Zeil turned into his reformed changeling self as Shining Armor’s look of confusion turned to surprise, as Zeil looked at his hoof again and continued, “Now that I think about it… I don’t think I looked like this back then either.” He acted as if her were thinking to himself, “Hm… let me think… I got it. How about I take the form I had when we first met face to face?”

Continuing the façade, Zeil changed his appearance to look like an Equestrian royal guard, leaving Shining Armor to only continue with his confused stare as Zeil looked at his hoof once again and spoke, “Well… I would guess since I stole this appearance from one of the apprehending guards you arrived with… that it would be mistaken for a former colleague. Hm… what to do, what to do…”
Trying to put an end to his mockery Thorax spoke, “Zeil, maybe you should just tell hi-“
Zeil smiled innocently as he replied, “Now, now brother… if I don’t show him a face he recognize,” he gave Shining Armor an angry look, “How is he supposed to remember who I am…”
Feeling the unusual shift from a humble greeting to a threatening glare, Shining Armor started to share in his sister’s unease, as Zeil finished with his angry tone, “How about this… I'm sure even you wouldn’t forget this face.”
As that was said, Zeil changed his appearance one last time. This time, to his parasitic changeling appearance as Shining Armor’s eyes widened as he sat down in shock, “What?... Z-Zine?”

Zeil replied with a threatening tone, “Oh good, you remember me after all. I’d say it’s good to see you again, but then I’d be lying.” He looked to Twilight, “Princess… I’d hate to seem rude… but we may need to discuss this in a more… private setting… you know, in absence of Armor’s wife and Daughter.”
Hearing the anger in his voice was all Shining Armor needed to agree as he looked to Princess Cadence and spoke, “Cadence… maybe you should take Flurry Heart somewhere else.”
Though she was unsure, Princess Cadence could sense the tension building in the room as she nodded, “Sure… Come along Flurry, let’s go practice magic in the garden for a while. We can let your father catch up with… Mr Zine?”
“Mage Zeil actually, and I do apologies if I seem rude, but this should only take a few minutes.”
Nodding, Princess Cadence and Flurry Heart left the throne room as all parties waited patiently till the throne room doors were shut and they were left alone.

After his family was gone, Shining Armor started to smile, “So… Zine… or Zeil, you’re alive… I'm glad, I was worried y-“
“Are you? Do you even know what I went through the past ten years?”
Shining Armor felt worried by Zeil’s snap as Thorax finally got tired of the tension as he stepped between Zeil and Shining Armor as he spoke, “All right let’s just calmed down a second.” He looked to Zeil, “Brother, you know that I’ll always stand with you… but Prince Armor and Princess Twilight are friends now. What happened that made you so cross with them?”
Zeil looked to Prince Armor, “Do you want to tell him, or should I?”
Shining Armor explained, “A little under ten years ago after the attack on Canterlot. I requested and formed a group of soldiers whose soul duty was to hunt down and banish remnant changeling from Equestria. At the time, we weren’t aware that the Changeling Kingdom had been established so close to Equestria’s borders, so when we did research, the closest settlement we could find record of was in the Land of the Black Sand.”
Thorax was surprised, “The Land of the Black Sand? But that’s thousands of miles away, almost a year’s flight from here.”
Still in his parasitic form, Zeil nodded, “And even further… since I don’t have wings anymore.”

Not realizing it before, Thorax looked Zeil in surprise as Shining Armor continued, “Well… since that was the only place we knew that changelings were, we set out to capture any changelings still in Equestria, and teleport them there with a spell. And… when I got a witness saying that Zine… or, Zeil was hiding out in the Castle of the Alicorn Sisters, I assembled a hunting party and tracked him down.”
Zeil nodded, “Yea… and when you found me… we fought… I won… and then I cured you of the after effects of Queen Chrysalis’s curse. Less than an hour later…” his glare shifted to Twilight as he continued “She… sent me tumbling into a portal that transported me across the world.”
Looking away in shame, Twilight held her silence as Shining Armor spoke up, “We tried to make it right!”
“Did you?”
“Off course, I sent three search parties there to find you and bring you back.”
Zeil replied, “And what did you find?... What landscape did your soldiers report back to you?”
Understanding the answer, Thorax stood in deep thought as Shining Armor replied, “The first search party couldn’t even enter the portal… the heat from the opposite side made it impossible to go through. So… we waited till the next day here, which was night there. But… the guards we sent through said they met with Queen Mira, the changeling queen of the Black Sand Hive. And… she told them to leave… even threatened them saying if she saw them again, she would attack them. And… on the third time, we went despite her warning, but the group of guards sent stayed for too long and got caught in the sunrise. They managed to make it back alive, but they all sustained severe burns, and one lost his eyesight all together. After that… we decided that we couldn’t risk anymore guards to find you.”

Though this completely surprised Zeil, it didn’t sway his anger as he replied, “That landscape… that environment that proves too dangerous for even Equestria’s finest… you knew that it was like that long before you sent your troops there… didn’t you?”
This time even Twilight was concerned as Shining Armor sighed, “Yea… I did.”
Both Thorax and Twilight were shocked as Zeil asked, “Tell me… when did you discover this? How many before me did you send their knowing fully of the danger? And don’t lie… both Thorax and I can tell if you do…”

All eyes were on Shining Armor as he sighed before trying to decide how to answer, “All of them…”
Zeil replied with a quieted rage, “Louder…. I’m a little hard of hearing… how many of those did you banish knowing that it was more a death sentence then a banishment?”
Saying it a little louder, Shining Armor repeated, “Every changeling I sent there… since the first changeling told me about it himself… I’ve known the entire time that the land of the Black Sand, was too dangerous for survival.”
Never knowing the truth, Twilight and Thorax stared at Shining Armor in shock as Twilight spoke, “But… you said it was the best option. To send them a safe distance away with little hostility. You… deliberately sent them there to die?”

Shining Armor gave her a sympathetic look but said nothing as Zeil spoke, “So you admit it… you deliberately tried to kill us one by one… while using Equestria’s defense as the reason.”
Shining Armor tried to defend himself, “No I didn’t… I was under the influence of Chrysalis’s spell. I promise I never meant intentional harm t-“
“Are you still clinging to that excuse? Or will you reveal the truth, for once.”
Shining Armor was confused, “What do you mean excuse?”
Zeil sighed, “Thorax… Tell him.”
Thorax shook his head in disbelief as he replied, “It’s… it’s not possible for Queen Chrysalis’s curse to make you do all that. What you did… was…”
With his disbelief making it hard to finish, Zeil finished for him, “Your own actions… That’s the only way to describe it. You attempted to kill them by your own decision. Chrysalis and her spell did nothing to help in that decision.”
Feeling worried, Shining Armor replied, “What? What do you mean? I was under a spell’s after effects… wasn’t I?

Zeil shook his head, “The after effects of Queen Chrysalis’s spell can cause your emotions to run wild making your emotional driven impulses extremely dangerous to others around you or yourself. But what you did wasn’t an impulse. You deliberately planned and coordinated the apprehension, banishment, and possible execution of every changeling you came across. Of which… could have been stopped at any time. Once you calmed yourself down… you could have stopped your actions, or at the very least revealed to Twilight about the harshness of the Black Sand’s environment. But instead… you didn’t. Do you know why?”
Shining Armor was too nervous to reply as Zeil continued, “Prejudice… you saw the pony race as the superior and us changelings as a blight. You were so caught up in your own anger that you refused to see any of your actions as cruel. At the end of the day, you were just putting us where we belonged in your eyes… beneath you.”
Princess Twilight replied, “Wait… that’s not it.”
Zeil continued in anger, “To you… we were the villains! A pestilence that needed to be removed, while you the hero… would be the one to remove us. AM I RIGHT!?!”

With Zeil’s words echoing through the throne room, Shining Armor looked to Zeil as he spoke, “You’re… Your right.”
Thorax and Twilight were even more surprised now as Shining Armor looked to Zeil and replied, “I always assumed it…. but I didn’t want to believe it. There is no excuse for my actions… if I wanted to I would have stopped it after that very first changeling but… for some reason, I refused to believe I had any fault in it. I was so caught up in my own anger, that… I didn’t realize I was becoming what I saw you to be. That night, when you spared me all those years ago… I was fully conscious when you cured the curse… I saw your mercy, and what you did for me on the spot. And that’s why I sent search parties to find you. I wanted to make up for all I did in any way I could.”
Zeil replied, “Even if you could… it wouldn’t be enough. Tell me Armor… Your daughter… How old is she?”

Almost immediately the entire room felt even more unsettled as Twilight replied, “Wait… what? What does that have to do wi-“
Zeil interrupted, “It has plenty to do with this matter.” He looked back to Shining Armor, “So answer… how old is she?”
Shining Armor hesitated as both Zeil and Thorax felt fear in his emotions as Thorax spoke up, “Zeil this is going too far.”
Zeil looked to his brother in anger, “No… we have a little further to go.” He looked back to the nervous prince, “Well? Answer! How old is Princess Flurry Heart?”
Shining Armor started to reply, “She… she is…”
Twilight spoke again, “Zeil, please… leave her out of it.”
Zeil replied in anger, “I don’t want to hear anything from you… I asked for an answer and I won't continue till I have one.” He looked to Shining Armor and spoke with a quiet rage that made all present even more afraid of him, “Don’t make me repeat myself… now… answer the question…”
Though he was worried about where this question was going, Shining Armor decided it was owed as he replied, “She’s eight years old.”

Zeil smiled as he replied casually, “There… that wasn’t so hard was it… but it gets harder…” He sat down, “So she was born about two years after I left… right? Then do me a favor… and remember everything.”
Shining Armor was confused, “Everything?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… remember every fixed event of her life that remains significant… her first words, her first steps. Remember the first time she smiled at you, called you daddy, ran to you excited to show you something. Remember all those events, even the very first time you saw her and thought to yourself… this is my daughter. Remember it all clearly.”
Somehow this made Shining Armor feel even more uneasy as Zeil continued, “Then… once you remember all of that… add two years to it… your honeymoon with your wife, the day you took over as prince of the Crystal Empire. Even the day your princess came to you and told you that you would become a father… Remember it all, the joy you felt, the pride and every good emotion that followed. Remember, everything that happened within all ten of those years following my banishment. Remember all the happiness you felt… do you have it all?”

Worried Shining Armor nodded as Zeil continued, “Good… now… remove it.”
“What?”
Zeil continued, “You heard me… remove it. Think about how you would feel of all that happiness you felt never existed. You never went on your honeymoon, you never took over as prince of the Crystal Empire. You never had your daughter or felt the joy of seeing her. That in mind, she wouldn’t even exist would she? Her entire life, everything she knows, cherishes, loves, and understands… simply never was. No Princess Flurry Heart, No Crystal Empire… nothing… so… do you see it?” his anger started to grow, “Do you comprehend it? Can you even fathom it? That loss of happiness, that time spent with the one you love. Everything that give your life joy… EVERYTHING YOU TOOK FROM ME!!!”
The room was stunned silent as Zeil’s rage continued to echo, “I didn’t want the fighting to continue. I didn’t want to hurt ponies anymore, get revenge or even see Queen Chrysalis again. All I wanted was to be left alone… to live with a chance at a better life.” With tears rolling down his face he pointed at Shining Armor, “BUT YOU!!! YOU WANTED ME GONE!!!” he turned to Twilight, “AND YOU!!! SENT ME AWAY!!!”

Zeil preceded to look down in anger as the tears continued to roll down his face as he continued, “Ten years… that’s what you took from me. Sure I helped Queen Chrysalis attack Equestria, but then why was I the only of her subjects to be punished like this? Why was I the one forced to loose ten years with the mare I fell in love with? If you knew what I went through to get back… then I guarantee both of you would never consider any possibility of forgiveness for what you have done. Thanks to you… I was taken from the mare I love and forced away without even the chance to say goodbye. I endured deserts that could literally singe your coat from the heat alone. Frost covered mountains littered with corpses of those who couldn’t survive the cold. I have been impaled, beaten, burned, and burdened with images of horrifics that you could never fathom. I lost many friends in my journey, to include a brother and a sister. And it’s all thanks to the both of you. So now I ask, and you both better consider your answers carefully… What do you have to say for yourselves… WHAT CAN YOU SAY TO ONE WHOS LIFE YOU PRACTICALY DESTROYED!?!”

With that yell, the room was immediately filled with silence as Twilight Sparkle and Shining Armor sat with their heads down as a deep looming feeling of shame failed the air around them. With Zeil’s anger more obvious than ever, both didn’t know how to answer as Twilight tried first, “I… I don’t know what to say.”
Shining Armor sighed, “There is nothing we can say.”
Everyone in the room looked to Shining Armor as he stood and spoke with tears building up in his eyes, “Zeil… thinking about my life in the past ten years… I… I could never understand your pain, because even when I imagine it. It’s nowhere near as terrible as what it must truly feel. I know that no matter what I say or do… I can never make up for what happened that day. I wronged you.” he looked to Thorax “I wronged you both… I hurt the changelings because of my own hatred. I doubt it will make up for what I did, and to be honest I don’t even deserve it… but all I can do, is apologies. I'm truly sorry, for all that I hurt and all that I took from you.” He looked at Twilight briefly, “We both are. I feel terrible, and if there is any way to make it up to you, name it. Thorax, you and I are friends now, and I truly value that friendship. And Zeil, we may not be friend but I still don’t want this bad blood between us. You were wronged, and I am at fault.”

Zeil returned his apology with an unsatisfied glare as the room was filled with a tense silence that in most cases would be followed with bloodshed. However, the next action surprised everyone as Zeil wiped his tears away and spoke with a slight smile, “Then… We are done here.”
The room was filled with shock and confusion as Zeil looked to Thorax, “Brother… you are the ruler of the swarm now… That means that in light of his confession, any penance or punishment for his actions will be entirely up to you. You can attack him, declare war on the ponies, force him to do something that brings shame to his name, or even forgive him and let it go. That is entirely up to you. As for me, as an exile from the swarm. I have no say.”

At that moment, Shining Armor, Thorax, and Twilight stared in shock as Zeil turned around and started trotting towards the throne room doors, “I’ll see myself out… Thank you for your time your majesties. And may good fortune smile upon you both.”
Twilight Thorax and Shining Armor stood in shock, as Zeil trotted back to the doors to the throne room and exited with nothing more to say. Moments later Twilight rushed after him as she ran down the corridor and stopped him in the corridor as she called, “Zeil! Wait!”
Zeil continued on his path as he replied, “I’ve said my peace. Now… leave me alone.”
Twilight stepped in front of him as she spoke, “That’s it? That’s all you came here for?”
Zeil replied with an unamused tone, “If I allowed my darkness to take control… I would lay waste to all life within both your kingdoms… However, since I hold balance in my emotions. I know that if I decide to claim an eye for an eye… then I’d leave the world blind. That’s the reason I came here. To restore balance in myself, and in your brother.”

Twilight was confused, “My brother? What do you mean?”
Zeil nodded, “I noticed it the moment I stepped into this city. He was trapped between denial and guilt for his actions against us changelings all those years ago. So by having him admit it here… I was able to help him balance himself by making him admit it to the two he wronged the most. I, the changeling who returned to call him out, and Thorax, the new ruler of the Changeling Kingdom. Now… it’s all a matter of how Thorax chooses to continue now that he knows of Shining Armor’s crime, it will be up to him to provide a suitable punishment. Or as much as a neighboring ruler can provide to a traitorous ally nation.”
Twilight’s eyes widened, “Did… did you intent of starting a war between the changeling kingdom and my brother? Are you trying to restart the fight between ponies and changelings?”
Zeil laughed out loud, “You really believe that Thorax is capable of that? Thorax is one of my closest sibling, I know him more then he knows himself. And though he is a little more confident now then he was back then, he is still a softie. I guarantee, that as long as he heard Shining Armor’s apology loud and clear, he will overlook this and accept it. After all, that was ten years ago. He’s not one to hold a grudge for that long.”

Twilight started to smile with relief as she continued, “So… you’re both willing to forgive him, erm… us?”
Zeil shook his head, “Thorax maybe… but I won't be convinced so easily. Honestly, all that I went through, I doubt I will ever be able to forgive either one of you. But… I'm stallion enough to overlook this. The journey I just returned from was tough, and in many ways painful, but it revealed a truth to me that I needed to know, and I did make many friend along the way. And even though I lost some, the ones that remain will always hold a place in my heart. I will be grateful for their support, and will always cherish their friendships.” Zeil trotted around Twilight Sparkle as he spoke one last time, “Many years ago… on the day I cured Shining Armor, I told him something before I left… I said if all goes well, he and I may even call each other friend.” Still trotting away, Zeil waved goodbye behind him as he spoke, “That truth still stands… Until then, may good fortune smile upon you, and yours, Princess Twilight.” Zeil took a few more steps before pausing one last time, “Oh… and one more thing. As Mage of Zebrica, I will be called to places where balance must be maintained, so if you ever need me? Don’t seek me out… I'll find you.”

Confused, and somewhat relieved, Princess Twilight stood and watched as Zeil turned back to his path and left the crystal palace as she mumbled, “So… everything is fine now?”
“TWILIGHT!”
Hearing the call, Twilight looked behind her as Thorax rushed up he pointed at the now glowing orbs on his chest as he spoke, “I don’t know what the map wanted us to accomplish, but it looks like we did it.”
With that Princess Twilight looked at her cutiemark to see it glowing as she replied, “Oh… I guess we did. But… what was the friendship related problem? Did the map want us to make Shining Armor and Zeil friends? And if so?... Did we?”
Thorax replied, “I don’t know, but while you were out here chasing Zeil, Prince Armor and I talked it over and, I decided I wasn’t going to let what happened ten years ago get between our friendships. Maybe that was it.”
Twilight though about what Zeil said to her last as she replied, “Sure maybe that was it.”
Thorax asked, “Were you able to stop Zeil? Is… he not mad anymore?”
Twilight nodded, “Well, he isn’t going to retaliate. Or at least that’s what he says.”

Thorax looked around, “So… where did he go? Did he leave already?”
Twilight nodded, “I guess so… he is probably on his way to the Everfree Forest. To see Zecora.”
Thorax asked, “Should we go after him?”
Twilight though to herself before replying, “As anticlimactic as this whole mess was… I'm just glad it’s over. I think I'll go back to Canterlot for now. Rarity and Pinkie are watching the kingdom while I'm gone so I want to get back so they can return to Ponyville. What about you?”
Thorax nodded, “I think I'm going to go back to the Changeling Kingdom, Phalanx will be happy to hear brother Zeil is alright. And, maybe he’s right. Maybe it’s time for me to tell Ocellus that she is a Queen.”
Twilight looked down the corridor one last time, “Thorax… as his brother, do you think Zeil can be trusted? This whole incident make me unsure we are safe.”

Thorax thought to himself as he replied, “Zeil has changed a lot, he used to be more precise in his actions and passive, but now. He is straight to the point. But… even when he did things like this back then. He did it for a reason. He scared us, but maybe it was to prepare us for what was at stake. He just proved that your brother lied to my swarm for so long. But… when compared to Zeil’s intimidation it seem less bad then facing the anger of the Mage. He showed us something terrifying before revealing something only slightly scary which made the lesser not seem so bad. What I'm trying to say is… maybe it was to soften the blow a little. Zeil has always been the smarter of us drones so… maybe he did all this intentionally so I wouldn’t react aggressively.”
Twilight was surprised, “Would he really plan it all out like that?”
Thorax shrugged his shoulders, “No clue, we are talking about the changeling who calculated the entire attack on the Canterlot wedding incident ten years ago. But… even then, Zeil has always made sure to know what his values were and to protect them with every action. Back then it was Queen Chrysalis but now… I'm not sure who or what they are anymore.”
Twilight smiled slightly, “I think I have an idea of what they are. Or at least, who they are for.”

Bk14/Ch2 I Am Home...

Bk14/Ch2
I am Home…
(Year 09, Month 11, Day 16)

Princess twilight stepped off of the train onto the terminal platform as she sighed, “After this trip, maybe I should take a few days off… never thought I would be happy to be back in Canterlot.”
As she stepped off the platform a carnage and a few guards were waiting as the lead guard spoke, “Your majesty… thank Celestia your home! You must get to the palace at once!”
Hearing the concern in his voice Princess Twilight replied, “The palace? Is something wrong?”
The Guard nodded, “Yes, there was an incident last night that requires your attention. But it may be better to discuss this with our guests who arrived this morning. Judging by how they explained it, they may know more about it than me.”
She nodded as she stepped onto the carrage, “Understood, then let’s get to the castle as fast as we can.”

With that the carriage rushed as fast as it could to the castle with Princess Twilight determined to figure out what was going on. As soon as she arrived, Twilight rushed into the throne room where she saw a large number of guards gathered around the throne with a cream colored unicorn with a purple mane standing in front of the throne. As soon as the mare looked over the throne to see Twilight she smiled as she trotted through the guards and spoke, “Twilight! Thanks Celestia your back. With all the commotion of yesterday, I was unsure if my mane could handle another day of stress.”
As the two approached each other, Twilight replied, “Rarity? What’s going on, what happened yesterday that would cause every guard in the castle to be on alert?”
Rarity replied, “Well, perhaps we should let them talk first.”

As she said that, Rarity gestured to the herd of royal guards as Captain Tempest, and King Savean stepped out of the herd with Twilight looking to Tempest first, “Fizzypop? What are you doing here?”
Tempest spoke, “We came as soon as we received the warning.”
Twilight was confused as she looked to the king, “We?”
King Sevean bowed slightly as he introduced himself, “Princess Twilight, my name is King Savean of the Storm Kingdom. I believe you were partially responsible for my… Father’s death?”
Twilight felt a little concerned as she replied, “What?”
Seeing her worry, the king continued, “Adopted father… I will like to start by thanking you for removing him from the throne. If not for your actions, I think he would have continued to tarnish the Storm Kingdoms reputation beyond repair. But… we haven’t come to discuss this matter, but another more important one.”

Tempest spoke up, “Twilight, we received a terrible warning regarding one of the terrible three statues in the Canterlot garden. But… What we were warned about, happened just last night.”
As that was said Rarity spoke up, “Well…. Last night, Cheese Sandwich decided to ask Pinkie Pie on a walk through the Canterlot Garden.” She started to smile, “And while they were out there… he…” She started getting giddy with excitement, “HE PROPOSED TO HER!”
Lost in her own excitement, Twilight grabbed her hooves and smiled “Really? And… what’s did she say!?!”
They both got even more excited as Rarity continued, “SHE SAID YES!!!”
Filled with excitement, they both started jumping for joy as they screamed over the news, as the rest of the room only looked at them with confusion as Tempest tried to calm them, “Ladies, ladies… Focus… Still in a crisis here.”

Rarity soon remembered the issue as she calmed herself down and continued, “Oh right… well… After she said that. One of the three statues started glowing eerily before shattering. And after that, a green glint was reported leaving the area. As for the one in the statue, we believe she escaped.”
Concerned with the situation Twilight thought to herself as she spoke, “This is bad… if one of the three is free then it could mean a terrible attack may be in Equestria’s future.”
King Sevean stepped forward, “Your majesty, in thanks for liberating my kingdom of a tyrant. I will offer any assistance the Storm Kingdom can spare. If we had gotten here sooner, we could have prevented this terrible tragedy.”
Twilight nodded, “It’s not your fault this happened. But, I appreciate the support all the same.” She looked to Rarity, “Rarity… which of the three escaped?...”

Not far outside off Ponyville, Zeil was looking at a small vail of yellowish powder as he mumbled to himself, “It grinded down better than I thought… let’s just hope I don’t have to use it. Or… any off what I prepared for today.” He leaned back in the seat and closed his eyes, “And here I thought the worst part of this journey would be the trial of the Mage… I don’t think anything can prepare me for what’s next.”
“Rough journey?”
Confused, Zeil looked to a faded purple earth pony that sat across the aisle as he notice the stallion smiling at him as he nodded, “yea… it was rough.”
The Stranger didn’t seem like much, he was a purplish stallion with a short orange mane. The only distinct feature the stallion had was a pair of aviator’s goggles that sat on his head with a crack in the lens. The seemingly harmless stallion smiled, “I thought so, there is a look that others have when they return home after a stressful trip. Pardon my observation by the way, I just call it as I see it.”

Being polite Zeil smiled, “No worries, it has been a long journey. And that’s an understatement.”
The Earth pony smiled, “I'll bet… one truth that remains true, there is no place like home.”
Zeil smiled, “You said it. Are you returning home after a long journey too?”
The stallion shook his head, “No, I’ve only been gone a few days. A friend asked me to look into someone in the Crystal Empire and it was just a simple trip there and back so it wasn’t much trouble.”
Zeil nodded, “It’s always good to help a friend in need.”
At that moment the conductor stepped into the aisle as he called, “Next stop Ponyville! Next stop Ponyville, all through travelers have your tickets ready to be punched.”
Feeling the train coming to a stop the stallion smiled as he stood, “Well it was nice talking with you.”
Zeil nodded, “Thanks you too.”

The stallion smiled as he trotted down the aisle as Zeil ensured his things were put away and exiting the train on the opposite end of the train car. As soon as Zeil stepped onto the Ponyville platform he looked around at the quaint town as he could hear ponies talking at the other end of the train as a young mare spoke, “Dad, how was your trip? Did you see the stallion that aunt Silver talked about?”
Looking in the direction Zeil watched as the earth pony from the train answered the young purplish mare, “I did Dinky, and she was right. He seems scary at first but he isn’t a bad guy. At least not from what I saw.”

A grey mare with a golden mane and yellow crossed eyes replied as she hugged him, “Good… I was worried you would get into danger again.”
He smiled as he replied, “It’s alright Derpy, you remember my promise?”
She nodded, “If you ever go on a trip, you will always return no matter what. But that doesn’t stop me from worrying.”
He smiled as he stopped hugging his wife, “I know… but there is nothing to worry about. If anything,” he looked across the platform at Zeil, “We are safer now with him in Equestria.”
Derpy gave him a confused look, “Him? Who are you talking about Allen?”
Allen smiled as he and his family started trotting away from the train, “It’s not important, Lets go home, I have some new schematics to finish for my next plane.”
With that said, the small family started trotting away as Zeil mumbled to himself, “Silver… was he watching me in the Crystal Empire? And schematics? I wonder if he is that mechanic Silver talked about back then.” he shook his head as he turned to the platform stairs, “Better to just let it be. Whatever test I was unknowingly taking… it seems I passed.”

With no thoughts on the subject, Zeil trotted off of the train platform and began traveling out of Ponyville towards the countryside. Not long after leaving Ponyville, Zeil started to approach the edge of the Everfree Forest. With memories starting to return to him, Zeil could only smile as he trotted down the road as he remembered every obstacle he passed on the trail. However as he continued, he started to feel another presence that brought back memories, however this particular aura was one that he hoped he wouldn’t ever feel again, as he continued on his path without showing any hits or signs that the presence was known. Continuing on his path, Zeil came to a fork in the road that he recognized clearly. However, he still took the wrong path by choice as he lured the looming presence further from his destination.

Finally as the sides of the pathway opened up into a small clearing, Zeil stopped in his tracks as he sighed hopelessly before speaking aloud, “I know you’re out there! Don’t insult me by assuming I didn’t sense you the moment I entered the Everfree Forest! Why don’t you save us both the trouble and show yourself!”
As that was said, Zeil turned around to the pathway behind him as he saw a little black bunny emerge from nearby shrubs as the bunny transformed into a parasitic changeling before speaking with a smiled, “So, I was right after all. It truly is my most trusted drone, returned to Equestria after all these years. It’s good to see you again Zeil.”
Zeil gave her a dull look as he replied, “I would say the same… but honestly… I can't say I agree Queen Chrysalis?”

Although she didn’t like his tone, she still tried to ignore it as she replied, “Zeil… I'm offended. I'm only grateful that my most promising drone is alive and well. After the debacle of the Royal wedding, and your absence following, I and the rest of the swarm presumed you dead. But now that you have returned unharmed. We can begin our plan.”
Zeil was unamused, “Plan? It’s my understanding that you have no swarm left to command.”
Hiding her building anger the former queen replied, “Yes well, I'll admit Thorax’s betrayal wasn’t at all expected. And when he along with that Starlight Glimmer turned my entire swarm against me, it was also a major setback. But now that you are here, we can now get back at him.”
Playing along Zeil replied, “I don’t know who this Starlight Glimmer is, but I’d be lying if I wasn’t curious as to how we are supposed to get back at them?”
She smiled, “With your help of course. You have always been the master of espionage. Only this time, you need not take any other form then your own. It will be all too perfect.”

Trying to pry more, Zeil continued, “To do what exactly?...”
Queen Chrysalis smiled sinisterly, “I want you to sneak into the Changeling kingdom and request an audience with Thorax. Since he is your brother, he will most likely agree to see you without question. Then, when you two are alone, I want you to kill him.”
Surprised of how forward she was Zeil replied, “Kill? Didn’t you always say it’s better to leave targets alive as to make use of them later?”
She shook her head, “Not this time… I’ve been beaten time and time again, but this time… I'm taking him down before he has the chance to realize his danger. Then… when all the kingdom is in a panic, I will return and take the throne. Whilst you find and kill Phalanx.”
“Phalanx?”
She nodded, “yes… it’s a pity but since he has also become reformed… I must deal with him as well. With no drone to oppose me then the rest of the swarm will have no choice but to bow to me. Then… I will allow you to do as you please.”

Zeil felt skeptic, “As I please?... what do you mean by that?”
She smiled, “Don’t play coy, I know why you returned here of all places. I am not so clueless as to not hear the muttering of The Changeling of the Everfree Forest. A remnant of the attack on the royal wedding, who fell into the forest and took the form of a zebra to learn magic from the enchantress who lives here. Since the moment I saw you enter the Everfree Forest, you have had the scent surrounding you. A simple scent that all changelings know and crave… the scent of love.”
Zeil didn’t respond, instead he only gave her a distrusting glance as she smiled, “Don’t act so surprised. Any changeling could feel it. It radiates from you like a vast flower forest. Sweet and refreshing to the taste… though it is very uncommon to come from a changeling, it is unmistakable. You… are in love with Zebora…”
Zeil corrected her, “Zecora...
She waved her hoof dismissively, “Whatever… the point is, if you do this for me… I will ignore your feelings and allow you to live with her in peace. Consider it a payment for returning my kingdom and for all your loyalty in the past.”

Zeil chuckled as he replied, “I will say… I never thought I would see the day, when you were truly beaten and left to barter with something that you no longer own.”
Since he deliberately took a wrong path earlier, Zeil trotted towards her as she gave him an angry look, “What was that?”
He passed her by and replied as he trotted away, “I said that my loyalty is no longer yours to use… and since your threat isn’t serious enough to tip the balance in even the slightest… I see no need to get involved. On either side of this engagement. So, if we are done, I'll say goodbye your majesty. I hope we won't cross paths again.”
As Zeil continued leaving the area, Queen Chrysalis spoke, “And just where do you think you’re going?”
Zeil replied, “Home… that’s where.”
She replied with a chuckled, “Home… there is no home. Not for you or me.”

Zeil paused as he turned to her and replied, “Really? And what make you so sure?”
She sighed in disappointment, “Zeil… when the swarm turned against me, I thought that if you were here you would be the only one to take my side and talk some sense into them. We both know where Thorax is leading them, with the ponies over us, we are doomed to slavery. Thorax is too naive to see it but you know as well as I that in time the ponies will begin to treat changelings as all races do. First, they will use our abilities to get what they want from others around us. Then, they will begin to whittle away our rights and our kingdom from our hooves, before casting us aside, and taking away our freedom. For our swarm, you and I have to work together to open their eyes.”
Zeil shook his head, “My eyes are open, I’ve seen the world myself. Not in a glimpse of flying over or teleporting, but by walking across it. By seeing the lives of those around us, their views, goals and dreams. I’ve seen that there is a home for everyone out there. I’ve found mine… I just hope one day, you find yours.” He turned away, “Open your own eyes, and you’ll find it.”
As Zeil continued trotting away, Queen Chrysalis sighed in disappointment, “That’s too bad, I hoped I would never have to do this to my own drones, but it seems there is no other way to convince you.”

With her targets back to her, Queen Chrysalis’s eyes started to glow green as Zeil’s eyes started to glow the same, before he finally stopped and gripped his head in pain. Stumbling at the unexpected use of magic, Zeil gripped his head before turning back to his former queen as he spoke through his pain, “Y-you… your trying to invade my mind?”
Queen Chrysalis nodded, “If it works on a unicorn prince, then it will easily work on one of my drones. I intended on using this on thorax but knew he was too weak for his control to matter. You on the other hoof… are perfect.”
Zeil replied as he griped his head, “You really think this will help you?”
She smiled, “Of course it will… I tried to barter with your false pretenses of love but I guess even you can fall to ignorance. A changeling and a zebra… how pathetic, to think that my smartest and most promising drone would fall so easily to a zebra’s charm. Seems that you were so caught up in your own feelings that you never noticed the truth. A Zebra and a changeling cannot be together. Your worlds are just too far apart, face it, you two… were never meant to be.”
Zeil turned completely to Queen Chrysalis as he replied, “Maybe your right, maybe we are from two different worlds… but…” he stopped gripping his head and bared the pain before glaring at her in anger, “I’ve learned to survive in both worlds, let me show you what I’ve learned.”
With that, Zeil’s glowing eyes changed colors from a lime green, to a dark purple. Shortly after, Queen Chrysalis’s eyes started changing too, before an intense pain began filling her head as she gripped her head and stumbled back until she finally fell to the ground as her eyes stopped glowing and the pain faded with it. Breathing heavily, Queen Chrysalis picked herself up as she spoke, “Wha… what was that?”

Zeil’s eyes stopped glowing as he replied, “You invaded my mind, so I pushed you back and into your mind, only… I stopped when I scratched the surface.”
She shook her head, “That’s not possible. A changeling drone holds no such magic.”
Zeil nodded, “Your right, only a queen holds the power to invade the mind of others. But then again… a mage holds far more power. So… what next?”
Queen Chrysalis glared in anger as she replied, “if you won't join me willingly or by force… then I can't let you reveal my plan to anyone else.”
Seeing her ready her stance to change, Zeil sighed as he mumbled, “I should have seen this coming.”
All of a sudden Queen Chrysalis changed her appearance as Zeil looked at her in surprise, “A dragon?”

With Zeil now having to look up at the massive creature his queen changed into, Zeil quickly reached into his saddlebag as the ferocious beast inhaled deeply before blowing a large stream of flames at the smaller changeling. Luckily Zeil managed to pull out a small blue potion as he smashed the flask against the ground and swept his hoof in an arc allowing the potion to shoot up a thick ice wall that followed the path of his hoof and blocked the incoming flames mere moment before it could engulf its target. Sighing in relief, Zeil looked at the visible glow of the flames through the ice wall as he mumbled, “A dragon first?… usually she goes for a bear or other smaller beasts, but a dragon… she’s desperate.” A loud pop was heard as a large crack appeared on the ice as he continued, “And this won't hold… I have to get close to her.”
After a few seconds more, Queen Chrysalis stopped blowing flames towards Zeil as she saw the ice wall he placed between them and the crack on its surface as she smiled, “Seems the rumors of you learning magic are true after all… but it’s still going to take more than that to defeat me.”

This time, as the queen inhaled to attack, she didn’t blow a massive string of flame. Instead she fired a large fireball that flew towards the ice wall and hit it with enough force to explode the wall in a flurry of steam, snow, and fog that enveloped the area in a haze. Although his protective wall was now destroyed, Zeil still had an advantage as all beyond where the wall once stood was concealed in steam and fog as Queen Chrysalis took the time to watch the area closely for any signs of movement or activity. Then just as she expected Zeil charged towards her from the center of the steam, however his movements were much faster than expected, as his approached left her no time to send more flames in his direction. With no time to brace herself for an attack Queen Chrysalis stepped back as Zeil lunched himself in the air to attack the tall dragon.

Unfortunately as he reached his attacking distance something odd happened as their eyes met, Zeil unexpectedly hesitated, while his lack of action allowed the queen time to swing her claw across her body as her massive dragon backhand hit Zeil’s torso. Spared from her claws but not her strength, the tiny zebra disguised changeling was thrown twenty feet threw the air before colligating with a tree at bone breaking speed. Injured and stunned, Zeil fell to the ground as he coughed up a small amount of blood before looking down at the drops and speaking through his pain, “That… that was sloppy. Why di-“
At that moment, Zeil who was still looking down at his blood saw a fast approaching yellow light as he didn’t even bother taking the time to look at what it was. Instead he quickly moved as he swung around the tree he colligated with just as another string of flames hit the opposite side as fire bellowed around it barely missing him.

With the string of flames engulfing and swinging around the outsiders of his cover, “Zeil mumbled as he wiped the blood from his mouth, “I was afraid this would happen… even if I no longer claim her as my queen, she still brought me into this world. I can't attack her directly… my morality won't allow it, but if I hesitate again… she’ll kill me.”
Taking advantage of his time, Zeil pulled a small potion from his saddlebag as he drank the healing elixir as the fire stopped flowing leaving Queen Chrysalis to smiled, “Struggle all you want Zeil… I heard your bones crack. You don’t have much fight left in you and I doubt you can go on much longer.”
Finishing up the elixir Zeil dropped the empty vial as he mumbled, “She isn’t wrong, this should shift my bones into place and numb my pain, but it won't matter if she continues to attack me before I can use a better healing potion. I only need to get close to her. There is one thing I can try.”

Waiting for him to act, Queen Chrysalis stood her ground and watched the scorched tree burn for a few seconds. However after a few seconds of no movement, she decided to approach herself. But as she tried to lift her claws to walk closer, she realized they were constricted as she looked down to see that vines had grown over her claws and weaved them to the ground. With her attention on her constricted claws Zeil quickly rushed from behind his cover a he began his charge towards his former queen. Realizing the distraction the irritated queen fired a fireball in his direction as Zeil dodged it with ease. Now nervous of his approach, the queen fired two more fireballs towards her approaching threat as Zeil dodged both this time pulling a potion from his saddle bag on the second dodge as he came closer. Now worried of his attack, the queen looked to her right claw as she blew a stream of flamed over it leaving the fire to scorch away the vines enough for her to pull her claw up and break free of the vines. However this time as Zeil lunged towards his target he gripped the potion in his hoof as he yelled, “LUX CONSSUMET!”

With that call Zeil slammed his hooved together as the small vial was shattered between them just as the queen swung her claw in an attempt to hit him just as she did moments ago. However before her claw could meet its target, Zeil, their surroundings and all light seemed to be pulled into the gap between Zeil’s hooves where the veil was shattered as the queen only managed to hit nothing but darkness as it enveloped everything around her. Confused, Queen Chrysalis looked around in confusion as she spoke, “What is this? Where am I? Where did you send me?”
Zeil’s voice echoed in response, “I didn’t send you anywhere… instead, I merely took your sight from you.”
She changed into her changeling form releasing herself from the vines that constricting her as she tried to look at her body, “What? I’m completely blind? To think you would stoop so low, it’s beyond pathetic.”
Though she couldn’t see his face she could only assume by his tone that he was smiling as he replied, “You haven’t seen anything yet.”
At that moment the queen felt something hit her face that felt like a powdery substance as she backed away brushing her face off as she spoke, “What was that? What did you just do to m-”

As Queen Chrysalis finished wiping her face, she found herself standing in front of her former throne as she looked over her swarm in front of her all in their old parasitic forms. With confusion, Queen Chrysalis watched as the swarm started clearing an open lane in their ranks as Zeil, Thorax, Apex, and Phalanx made their way towards her all in their parasitic forms. Seeing all her former drones approaching made her feel slightly uneasy but that soon passed as they all stopped and bowed in respect as Apex spoke, “Your majesty, we are ready for your instructions. Tell us how we can defeat these ponies and I promise I will see it done.”
Queen Chrysalis stood speechless as Thorax spoke next, “Are we sure about this?... I heard the ponies have some powerful magic on their side.”
Phalanx replied, “Aww little Thorax getting cold wings again? Maybe you will be better off hiding here so you don’t scuff your dainty little hooves.”
Zeil sighed in hopelessness, “If it’s all the same, I think it would be better if I lead this one… Your majesty? What is the plan? What do you need us to do to set the stage for Equestria’s downfall?”

Though she was confused, Queen Chrysalis still couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her loyal swarm as they all looked to her for guidance just as they did all those years ago. With joy in her heart, Queen Chrysalis replied, “Then… if I have your loyalty, we should begin preparations. Those ponies will pay for what they did to me. And I assure you all. Their love will be ours soon enough.”
The swarm cheered at their queens words as her drones bowed with a smile. However after a few seconds of cheering the swarm silenced themselves as the drones looked back with Zeil’s smile fading as he spoke, “How are you so sure?”
Confused by the sudden change in attitude, Queen Chrysalis gave him a confused look as Phalanx nodded, “He’s right? We’ve faced the ponies a number of times now and every time they kicked our plots. What makes next time so different?”
Queen Chrysalis tried to think of how to respond, but instead Thorax spoke first, “Maybe, we can't fight them. Their magic is too strong. Facing them will always be a losing battle.”
She tried to convince them, “That’s not true. With my rule we can win against any foe.”
Apex replied, “Prove it! Give us one example that your rule is best for us.”

Trying to defend herself, Queen Chrysalis hesitated for a few second before replying, “Th-the Marble Oasis. We conquered them without fail, did we not?”
Thorax replied, “We didn’t conquer them… we destroyed them entirely and left their land uninhabitable.”
Zeil added, “And for what? To feed off love that was short lived? In the end they all died, and we were left starving!”
The swarm started muttering amongst themselves as one by one they started changing into reformed changelings. Seeing her authority fleeting, Queen Chrysalis spoke up, “And that is why we came here! I saw our suffering and set out to find more food for us. To place us over all the weaklings this world has to offer. That is why we are here!”
Zeil thought to himself, “That’s true, but we are still starving. And even more so, we left Princess Mira behind because she thought it was a fruitless effort.”
Thorax nodded, “She wasn’t wrong… I just hope we didn’t leave her to die out there. The land of the black sand isn’t a place for the faint of heart.”

Trying not to think about it, Queen Chrysalis Spoke, “She made her choice. If it lead her to her death, then it’s her own fault.”
Thorax nodded, “True… but you allowed us to leave her behind. Your own sister.”
Apex added, “And for the betterment of us… but it seems we are no better are we?”
The queen tried to continue, “I did what I s-“
“ENOUGH!!!”
All eyes went to Zeil as he spoke, “You claim you are trying to save us but it’s clear that if we allow you to lead us any further, then it will be to our deaths.” He changed into a reformed changeling as he continued, “There is only one thing we can do from here… Exile!”
Before she could say anything in her defense Thorax spoke next as he too changed into a reformed changeling, “I’d hate to say it… but that won't work. Every time we sent her away she returns.”
Phalanx nodded as he became reformed, “Then lets send her somewhere else… somewhere she can't come back from… somewhere no one can come back from, if you get my drift.”
Apex was the last drone to change into a reformed changeling as he spoke, “To ensure our lives… we must take hers. We must sentence her to death!”

All of a sudden, Queen Chrysalis felt a deep and looming fear of her swarm as the surrounding changeling started yelling in agreement to the final decision. Worried for her life Queen Chrysalis spoke, “But… you can’t honestly mean to ki-“
At that moment a vine fell in from above as it wrapped itself into a noose that fell around the queen’s throat before tightening up and lifting her into the air. Struggling for her life, Queen Chrysalis couldn’t speak as Zeil spoke, “It was only a matter of time… your weakness drove us to this. Say good bye… your majesty. Your rein ends here.”
As the noose tightened and lifted her higher, the now fully reformed swarm surrounded the struggling Queen as they all mocked her in anger. As she struggled for her life, the sounds of her mocking swarm started to fade as the defeated queen could only close her tear filled eyes in acceptance of what was next. However before she lost full consciousness, Zeil’s voice echoed as he spoke, “I’ve seen enough…”

With that, Queen Chrysalis felt a hoof place firmly against her side leaving the noose and the rest of her surroundings to dissolve away as she fell to the ground coughing in pain at the torcher she just went through. As she started to get her breath she found herself laying back on the trail in the Everfree Forest as Zeil trotted away from her as he spoke, “I see… I assumed you had been through a lot… but I didn’t expect it to be this bad.”
Trying to catch her breath, Queen Chrysalis responded, “Wh-what was that… what did you just do to me?”
Zeil spoke, “I started with removing your sight but then I used a particular spell that was meant to take your greatest fear, have you experience it, then have it kill you in a horrible way… but despite what you felt… it was merely an illusion. Once you lost consciousness it would have faded and you would have awoken later safe and sound.”
Rubbing her neck she replied, “Then why did yo-“ She felt something hanging around her neck, “What is this?”
As she lifted the new trinket around her neck, Queen Chrysalis examined the small veil of a yellowish powder as Zeil replied, “That… is a peace offering… and… a chance.”

Queen Chrysalis gave him an untrusting look, “A chance… for what?”
Zeil replied as he stopped a number of paces away before replying, “At redemption… Your majesty, you told me that you have no home to return to… but… that is a lie. You do have a home, your swarm can still accept you if you learn to accept yourself.”
She was confused, “What?”
Zeil sighed, “You know why I stopped you from dying to your vision? It’s because, you didn’t put up much of a resistance. All who see that spell beg for their lives or scream in fear, but you… you accepted it. Because you already experienced your greatest fear.”
She rubbed her neck, “To die by hanging?”
He shook his head. “No… to have your swarm abandon you, and to be turned away by them. That is your greatest fear, and you already accepted it. But it’s not entirely true. If you chose, to change your ways… they will accept you again. You can live amongst them once more.”

She felt skeptic, “And you will help me regain my rule?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… that ship has passed. Even if they do accept you, I doubt they will ever follow you again. But at least you can live amongst them again. Not as their ruler, but as their equal.” He pointed at the veil around her neck, “If you accept that, and return with me… I can convince them that you have changed your ways. I can even help you become reformed like the rest of us… but only if you accept that and return.”
She looked at the veil of yellowish powder as she replied, “If… I accept this… you will help me return to the swarm?... and all will be as it should be?”
Zeil smiled, “Yes… you will have a home again… all you have to do is trust me.”
She looked into the veil as she smiled, “To think it would be as simple as that… but I am no fool.”
With one yank, Queen Chrysalis broke the thread keeping the veil around her neck as she threw it against the ground shattering it as the wind caused the yellowish powder to spread on the pathway, “Your sweet words of sympathy will not sway me… I'm no fool and I will not become a slave to the ponies like the rest of you. I will not stop until Twilight Sparkle and her friends bow to me like the weaklings they are. And if you stand in my way…” she transform into the massive dragon like before as her increasing size caused her claws to slide across the yellowish powder on the ground, “Then, you will bow too…”

Seeing Queen Chrysalis now back in her dragon form, Zeil sighed as he replied, “If that how you want things to end… then at least I tried to save you. I will not bow, and I will not fight you anymore.”
Smiling at what she assumed was only a brave face, Chrysalis spoke, “Then you will die here.”
With that, the powerful dragon inhaled as she took aim to blow flames in his direction. However as she did, the only thing to exit her mouth, was air. Confused, Queen Chrysalis tried three more times, by taking a deep breath then focusing on using her fire breathing to incinerate Zeil. But like the first time, all she managed to do was blow air in his general direction. Confused, Queen Chrysalis started to speak, however she was soon silenced when she unexpectedly changed back onto her changeling form as she looked at her hooves in confusion. As she looked at her hooves, she saw remnants of the yellowish powder on her hoof as she spoke, “What is this?... what did you do to me?”
That powder used to be an ever stone. It nullifies our magic and can make a changeling unable to change their appearance. Though in its powder form, its effects are delayed, it is still as effective and can make things difficult since powder is harder to clean off then just a stone.”
Trying to brush the powder away, she spoke, “What?”
Zeil continued, “I learned not long ago, that we higher changeling… the alpha drones and queens can undo any spell to change our appearance, to include forced transformation and petrification. That’s how I knew I’d see you again… but it is possible to permanently change you to stone as long as we removing your ability to change altogether.”

Angry, Queen Chrysalis spoke as she charged at him, “I don’t need my ability to change. I can beat you myself!”
As she charged, Zeil pulled a feather from his saddlebag and tossed it into the air in front of him. Then while it floated down he quickly planted his front two hooves on the ground, then accurately shifted them in perfect synchronization drawing a diamond on the dirt beneath him then encircling it perfectly. Then as the feather gently landed in its center, he planted it with his right hoof as he spoke, “Through your end be my strength and let my payment be heard, A year for your sight… Sight of the cockatrices!”
After that, the feather immediately caught fire then burned away as Zeil’s eyes turned red before he glared at the charging queen just as she got close enough to attack. However, the unexpected change in Zeil’s eyes caused her to stop in her tracks as she started to speak, “What? What is thi-“

At that moment, with the queen only able to say those words and take a step back, Queen Chrysalis of the Changeling kingdom, turned completely to stone before she could even realize what was happening around her.
With almost no time between the beginning and end of her transformation, Zeil stood his ground and continue staring at his former monarch just long enough to ensure she was fully frozen in place. After that Zeil’s eyes changed back to their zebra disguised color as he closed them and spoke in pity, “I can't kill her… but this way, she will remain stone for all eternity, if the ponies allow it. And all it cost was a year from the end of my l-“
before he could finish his sentence, Zeil immediately opened his eyes as a sudden jolt of excruciating pain surged through his body as the shock caused him to open his mouth and cough up a small amount of blood. Dropping to a knee, he tried to mumble through his pain, “Is this the curse taking that year… great… I didn’t think it would take this toll so soon… and with my previous wound… I… I don’t… I don’t kn-know if-“

Within the incredible pain surging through his body, numbing his senses even more, Zeil started leaning until he fell to the ground as an unexpected figure rushed to his side and started examining his wounds. With the pain making his sight fade, and his changeling abilities unusable, Zeil couldn’t tell who the figure was or even what she was. All he could do was lay on the ground and hear the muffled voice of the mare trying to helping him before his sight soon faded to black, and the pain riddled changeling lost consciousness.

Hours later, Zeil opened his eyes to an all too familiar sight. He found himself looking at the ceiling of a hut carved into a tree as he shifted his eyes around to the shelves of bottles, containers, books, and trinkets belonging to the enchantress of the Everfree forest. Then as he looked to where he could hear the humming of a mare, he saw the back of a young mare who was sterilizing bandages nearby. As soon as his eyes locked on the nearby mare, they widened as he quickly tried to climb out of the bed he was laying on, “Zecora?”
As he rolled off the bed, his hooved met the ground but immediate went limp as he fell to the floor causing the Yellowish mare to turn to him as she rushed to him in worry, “Whoa easy now, Don’t try to stand… you were pretty banged up when I found ya, so you need to lay back down and rest.”

As she helped him back onto the bed Zeil rubbed his head, “S-sorry, I thought you were… never mind… Who are you? How did we get here?”
She smiled, “Oh sorry, I'm Apple Bloom. And after I found you I brought you back to Zecora’s hut for some potions to help your injuries. I'm sort of a student of hers so I knew which ones you needed. Seeing the rough shape you were in, you must have fought hard against Queen Chrysalis. Luckily you did it though, you managed to beat her and turn her back to stone. Kinda funny, I came out here as soon as I heard she escaped to warn Zecora, but then I find you out there turning her to stone, I was surprised. Ain’t too many ponies brave enough to take on Queen Chrysalis by their self.”

Worried, Zeil asked, “The spell I used to turn her to stone… how much of it did you see?”
She turned back to the cauldron she was cleaning the bandages in as she replied, “Not much, I only came around at the part where your eyes started glowing. It looked… like a cockatrice for a second… what was that?”
Zeil replied, “A forbidden spell… one that cost me a year off the end of my life. But… I already know that my death won't be natural so, it’s fine. Though… I didn’t expect the payment to take its toll on my body like it did.”
Apple Bloom smiled, “Well, I know better than to ask about forbidden spells, but either way, Princess Twilight will be happy to hear that Queen Chrysalis was captured before she could hurt anypony. Or… anypony else.”
Rubbing his sore arms, Zeil nodded, “Yea… sure she will be. Where… Where is Zecora?”

Apple bloom replied, “Well, I didn’t realize it till I got here, but its Thursday, so… she probably won't be back tonight.”
Zeil was confused, “What do you mean? Was she here when you got here?”
She shook her head, “No, on Tuesdays and Thursdays Zecora teaches magic to Princess Umbra, Princess Luna’s daughter. But on Thursdays, when she finished teaching she usually goes to the cliffs.”
Zeil was concerned, “the cliffs?”
Apple Bloom nodded, “Yea well, she goes there to wait for someone important to her. Does it every week, I wonder if he will ever co- wait…”
With a skeptic glance, Apple Bloom looked to Zeil as she asked, “What… what did you say your name was? I don’t think I caught it.”

As soon as he saw her skeptic look, Zeil realized what it meant as he spoke, “The cliffs.”
Quickly rolling back out of the bed, Zeil jumped up again, but like before his legs went limp as he hit the ground and struggled to pick himself up. However, with his sheer determination driving him, Zeil managed to stand himself up, before stumbling in his path towards the front door. With his stumble too quick for Apple Bloom to keep up, Zeil managed to regain enough control to walk just as he reached the door before opening it up and rushing outside. With each passing step up the trail, Zeil found himself walking faster and faster, until finally he regained enough control to run, then shortly after, sprint. As he continued down the road, Zeil started feeling less and less weakened from his earlier experience as he realized that the mid-day sun he passed out in after his fight with Chrysalis was now a dusk twilight.

Faster and faster in his run, Zeil passed a few familiar settings, a stream where he and Zecora meditated together multiple times, a post crossing over the same stream where he learned balance for the first time, then one more setting that actually caused him to pause. A clearing were a number of poison joke plants grew, to include a rusty spear that was sticking out of the ground with a slight lean. The same field where he was sent away in. Though he paused to look at the spear, it only slowed him for a moment, as he continued on, with voices echoing in his head from those met in his journey, “A mare to make one so determined, I would assume it is love in its truest form.” “I understand you loved that mare, and I feel it was an injustice that you were casted so far from her before even getting the chance to tell her the truth.” “A stallion traveling to the ends of the earth… There, isn’t a mare alive who would ignore devotion like that.” “When you meet with your lass, be sure to hold her close and never let go.” “Hurry colt, she’s waiting there for you!”
With the words driving him, Zeil started running faster and faster as his memories of the Trails returned to him, allowing him to make every turn needed to return to the one place he could never forget.

As he continued his sprint down an ever remembered trail, something caught his eye that he didn’t remember as he quickly halted his sprint which in his weakened stated caused him to fall over into an unexpected roll. After rolling to a sliding stop, Zeil picked himself up after coughing in exhaustion before looking to what it was that caused his sudden stop. Confused, Zeil looked to a Small plant that grew on the side of the trail, a Golden Joke. Confused as to how one could still exist with his absence, he looked further up the trail to see a second, then a third then a forth. Confused Zeil mumbled to himself, “Golden joke… they shouldn’t be still here unless the two they share love with are present… I wonder… how?”
At that moment, the last light of twilight fell over the horizon as the area became darker with the glowing of the golden jokes being the only light on the trail. With his very first spell lighting his way, Zeil continued down the trail only this time, he wasn’t sprinting like before, this time, he continued with a simple trot.

Continuing closer and closer, it wasn’t long before the small number of golden joke now lined both sides of the trail until Zeil found the trail leading out of the forest’s tree line, exposing a cliff on the opposite side, and a lone figure standing on its edge. As Zeil looked to the figure, he paused, Standing on the edge of the cliff, with her back turned to him, was Zecora. No vision, dream version, no illusion, or mistaken first glance, this was without a doubt, Zecora the Enchantress of the Everfree Forest. As he gazed upon the mare he loved who was dimly lit by the surroundings golden jokes, Zeil smiled as he started to step forward to speak, but as he did, he paused. For some reason, like before, many voices started to enter his mind, only this time, it was different, “We don’t feel love, we feed on it!” “Have you considered the thought that she is better off believing what she does?” “What about if she turns you away? What will you do then?” “Face it… You two, were never meant to be.”
With these words in his mind, Zeil with his hoof still in the air, hesitated for a few seconds as he sighed before muttering to himself too softly for anyone else to hear, “That may be… but we won't know till I try.”
With that Zeil completed his step as he took a few more closer to Zecora before bracing himself as he spoke, “Zecora?...”
Though there was a slight hesitation, Zecora slowly turned around as her eyes widened when she looked upon the stallion she loved as the two could only gaze onto one another for the first time, in almost one full decade.

Author's Note

Not over yet, there is one more chapter after this, to include the epilogue.

Bk15/Ch2 The Final Change Pt2

Bk15/Ch2
The Final Change Pt2
(Year 11, Month 0, Day 01)

(A few hours later)

In a large Ballroom building in the center of the Isle of Home, all guest enjoyed the wedding reception as Zeil stood with his wife greeting everypony present. As they stood, it wasn’t long before a royal couple approached as the queen spoke, “Sir Zeil, That was a lovely service. I and my king are grateful you invited us to such a beautiful wedding.”
Zeil looked to Queen Blossom as he nodded, “The honor is mine your majesty.
The Queen looked to Zecora as she continued, “It’s also an honor to meet you Miss Zecora, may I say you look beautiful in your cultural gown. A design of your native land no doubt.”
King Rainer smiled, “Forgive my wife, she spent a lot of time studying culture of foreign lands so she tends to get excited over the subject.”
Zecora smiled, “Not at all, it’s an honor to say. To be congratulated by royals on such a special day.”

The two monarchs smiled at Zecora’s praise as Zeil spoke, “How is Spring Haven? I'm sure tis changed a lot since I left.”
King Rainer smiled, “It has been doing well. Since you gave my queen her confidence back, she had been stern in establishing trade and alliance with many neighboring kingdoms. Most of which are in this very room.”
Zeil smiled, “I heard, you’re calling it the Mage Alliance right? Don’t you think there are better names out there?”

Reiner smiled, “There are, but none of which describe the very reason we united like we did. It’s all thanks to you. Every tribe, kingdom, clan, and nation you impacted joined us and already more are considering since they know that we support the Mage of Zebrica.”
Zeil shook his head, “Well, the once captain of the guard seems to have become quite the king didn’t he?”
Reiner smiled as he took his wife’s hoof, “With a Queen as wonderful as mine, even a farmer from the cherry groves can be a great king. I do wish I was the one that knighted you for your help dispelling Blossom’s curse though.”
Queen Blossom smiled as she spoke, “When you dispelled my curse, I wanted nothing more then to repay you for all you did and when Reiner and I discovered you were knighted by the ancient King of Lilith, we were disappointed that we didn’t think of it first. This only proved that you truly are a hero to be recognized by a king as ancient as Matthias of Lilith.”
Zeil Nodded, “A king but more a friend, as you both are.” He bowed his head slightly, “Your majesties.”

The two royals smiled but before they could reply, Princess Celestia approached as she spoke, “There you are Queen Blossom. I was wondering if you could join us for a small discussion on our continued alliance. The rest of the nation leaders are gathering and I think it would be good to have all who side with the mage alliance to speak on their behalf.”
Queen Blossom sighed as she replied, “Though it disappoints me to discuss business on a celebratory day, I suppose it can't be helped.” She looked to Zeil, “If you will excuse us Sir Zeil.”
Zeil smiled, “Of course, I understand the duties of royalty cannot be ignored.”
Smiling, both Queen Blossom and King Reiner left to join the gathering leaders as a group of Ibex monks approached with one speaking, “Master Zeil… that was a beautiful ceremony.”

As Zeil looked to the unexpected face, he smiled “Fuji? I thought I recognized you when I saw you earlier… and part of the Ibex Temple now, I'm glad. After the incident with Angel, I was worried sh-“
Fuji raised his hoof and interrupted, “There is no need to worry, Angel did no harm to me at all that day. The night before we were set to climb Angela’s Peak, she went to my room and place a sort of hex on me. The next morning I was ill with a fever and cough the likes of which made it impossible for me to leave. As bad as it was, it was a few days later before I had the strength to move. By then, my memories of Angel’s identity returned and… I could only assume the worst of my friends. A few weeks later I set off through the pass and arrived at the tavern on the opposite side of the mountain. When I saw the plaque bearing your names, my fears were confirmed.”
Zeil felt guilty, “I'm sorry, I tried to save them, but…”
Fuji nodded as he replied, “Hotham, Everest, Pike, Kilimanjaro, they were my dear friends and when they passed, I fell into a deep despair. I didn’t blame you though Master Zeil, in fact I was grateful you were able to make it and carry their names with you. But after they fell, I became lost. I abandoned my goal to reach the peak and set out to return home. In my travel though, I accidently crossed into the Ibex temple’s valley.”

Fuji gestured to another familiar monk as he continued, “There, I came across Shangre-La who with his wisdom, was able to calm my guilt. Taking the offer to stay at the temple for a few days, I was able to find myself and in time regain the courage to complete what I set out to accomplish. I returned to Angela’s peak and this time. Conquered it, just as Angel foresaw.”
Zeil was confused, “Foresaw?”
He smiled, “She knew I would eventually reach the peak and return unscathed. But on the day that you joined us she knew that if I had witnessed my friends falling one at a time, then I would lose confidence and fall beside them. That’s why she stopped me from accompanying you.”
Zeil shook his head, “Even then… I doubt I can forgive her for what she did. Hotham, Everest, Kiloman, and Pike were good ponies who didn’t deserve what happened to them.”
Fuji nodded, “Yes, but who are we to challenge fate. Fate led me to the Ibex temple, and after joining that community, it allowed me to find myself.”

Serenity stepped forward, “Yes, and Fuji has become a well-respected teacher of patients and self-confidents in our temple.”
Zeil looked to her and smiled, “Well if the temple sensei says so, then I can only be happy that my friend found a home amongst those I trust.”
Shangri La spoke next, “And it is also a relief to see a great master complete his long journey of enlightenment, I was shocked when I heard word that you were now the Mage of Zebrica. We’ve heard stories of the mage but I never thought I would meet him face to face, and even more so befriend him.”
Zeil nodded, “It is odd to be a keeper of darkness. But… I suppose it’s thanks to your teachings that the darkness can be kept at bay so easily. Balance was amongst the many lessons you taught me, despite the fact that I’ve had that lesson before.”
Zeil Looked to Zecora beside him as Serenity smiled and nodded, “Of course, we cannot overlook Zeil’s most respected teacher and inspiration. If not for her, Master Zeil wouldn’t have survived such a peerless journey of enlightenment.” She bowed slightly, “As sensei of the Ibex Temple, I thank you for sharing your wisdom.”
Zecora smiled as she replied, “I only taught his earliest of course, but combined with your teachings, I can only indorse.”

As the group continued catching up on the passed time, Daring Do and Silver sat at a table in the middle of the reception as Silver saw daring staring in Zeil’s direction as she sighed, “Dazzy, are you going to sulk all day? I know you liked him but he’s a married stallion now and therefor off the market.”
Daring sighed as she replied, “I know, but I'm still disappointed… not to mention a little jealous.”
Silver smiled, “And you should be, now that I get a good look at her, that Zecora mare is cute in an exotic sort of way. I wonder how well sh-“
At that moment, a faded tan mare with a purple and pink mane wearing a dark cloak approached as she whispered into Silver’s ear as silver sighed, “Really? This again Bon Bon? I told you the bumblebee bear isn’t a real concern. You really have a bit of a problem with this matter don’t you?”
Annoyed Silver stood up and she spoke, “Fine, let’s go talk to the Storm king if it will make you feel better.” She looked at Daring, “Excuse me Dazzy, I have a Cutter matter to deal with.”
As Silver trotted away, daring watched her leave as she mumbled in confusion, “Bumblebee Bear?”
“Excuse me, but are you Miss Yearling?”

Daring looked to the direction of the voice as she saw Queen Mira standing in front of her as she nodded, “Oh, yes that me. You’re… Queen Mira of the Black Sand Hive right?”
Queen Mira sat down at the table as she nodded, “Yes, I am quite the fan of your Books. I’m particularly a fond of the ones with Sir Zeil’s presents.”
Daring smiled, “Thank you… if I'm not mistaken, Mage Zeil told me about you when he first began his journey.”
Queen Mira smiled in embarrassment, “Yes… not particular my fondest memory. I understand I made quite the fool of myself back then. And even now I still regret my actions.”
Daring waved her hoof, “No need, if I know Mage Zeil enough, he probably forgave you for most of it years ago.”
Mira nodded, “He has… but I have not. Anyways… may I ask… your character Daring Do. You and she… are one and the same… correct?”
Trying not to sound boastful, Daring nodded, “I am.”
Queen Mira continued, “And that part where… you had feeling for him… and he turned you down… this is also true?”

Though she didn’t want to admit it, Daring nodded as she sighed, “He did.”
Queen Mira nodded, “I see…”
Daring looked to the now silent queen out the corner of her eye as she replied, “He turned you down too… didn’t he?”
Queen Mira nodded, “Yes… he did.”
The two sighed in hopelessness as Daring spoke, “I guess, it’s hard to deny. He is quite the stallion.”
“Good Evening.”
Both mares were caught off Guard as Zecora approached the two as Queen Mira spoke, “Oh, Good evening to you too Lady Zecora.”
Smiling Daring spoke next, “Congratulations on your wedding Miss Zecora, I'm happy to see that you and Mage Zeil can now live happily together.”

Zecora smiled pleasantly as she replied, “Thanks to you both, but the thanks is also owed. For helping my husband through the danger that was showed.”
Daring replied with confusion, “You are thanking us? But… why?”
Zecora smiled as she sat down and looked towards her husband as she replied, “He told me himself, of the help from then to the present. He explained your assistance… even… if unpleasant.”
Feeling that that part was directed to her, Queen Mira replied, “I… I'm sorry. I didn’t me-“
Zecora raised her hoof to silence her a she replied, “No need to apologize, for your actions were in just. And since he says so now, you have my trust. Zeil doesn’t hold grudges, no not even the slightest, and to hold a grudge this long it wouldn’t be the brightest. What’s done is done, and he overlooks it now. So I will to, without question of how. Daring, Queen Mira. I'm happy you’re here and as the invitation I send, it mentioned what you both are. To us… a treasured friend.”

With that said, Zecora leaned closer and hugged them both as she whispered silently, “Thank you both… for helping to bring my husband home to me.”
With both mare’s heads over Zecora’s shoulders, the two looked at each other for a brief moment as they decided to disregard her unrhymed thanks then hugged her back as Daring replied, “It was an honor to see Mage Zeil home.”
Queen Mira added, “And if you ever need anything of us, know that the mage and his bride have the support of the Black Sand Hive on his side.”
Zecora Stopped hugging the two as she nodded, “Thanks I'll keep th-“
“Zee Zee?”

Zecora turned to her approaching father, as Chief Basarum spoke, “Sorry to interrupt, but... um… some guest wish to have photos of us made. You know, father and daughter. So if you wouldn’t mind.”
Seeing through Basarum's attempt at getting personal photos made for himself and no one else Zecora smiled, “of course father let us go see.” She looked to the mares, “If you will excuse me.”
The two nodded in agreement as Zecora and her father went towards the photographer who was taking pictures of the ceremony. As Zecora left the two, they could only watch her leave as Daring smiled pleasantly before speaking, “We didn’t stand a chance… did we?”
Still holding her smile, Queen Mira replied, “Nope… not even the slightest.”

Elsewhere Zeil was trotting to see more guests as another familiar voice spoke, “Mage Zeil?”
Zeil turned around but was surprised when he saw Tempest and King Savean standing there as he braced his stance with the king speaking, “Now, now, we come in peace. Please just hear me out.”
Sensing his truthful words, Zeil stopped bracing himself as Tempest spoke, “The King and I, wish… to apologize. We know, we didn’t receive any such invitation to this wedding but…”
King Savean continued, “We couldn’t leave things as they were, and when Princess Twilight spoke of your wedding, I felt I needed to come in person to apologize to you directly.”
With an unamused expression, Zeil replied, “That so… and what exactly are you apologizing for?”
King Savean nodded, “First… the false imprisoning. I wanted to say that since then, we removed the law forbidding Changeling in the Storm Kingdom. As well as the law that ignored foreign nation pardoning, trade with other nations, and the bear ban.”
“Bear ban?”
King Savean nodded, “Yea… weirdly enough the former king had a strange fear of bears, that and bumble bees for some reason… don’t ask. But I also want to apologize about what happened to Captain Sail. If it makes you feel any better, I’ve announced that the Storm Kingdom has no claim nor credit for his death and that he died at sea, a free and wanted pirate. I'm sure, he wouldn’t have liked it any other way.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “I'm sure.”

King Savean nodded as he bowed his head, “In that case, I hope you will accept my apology and grant your blessing in joining the Mage Alliance.”
Zeil was confused, “My blessing… I don’t think you need such a thing from me since Spring Haven established it in the first place.”
Tempest sighed in hopelessness, “Your majesty, I told you that the alliance was formed under the guidance of Queen Blossom and King Rainer. It was only formed under the Mage’s name.”
King Savean thought to himself, “Did you? I thought he was the one that allowed them to be establish it.”
Zeil shook his head, “Not at all, it was established while I was trapped in Lilith. So I had nothing to do with its official start.”
Another voice spoke from behind as a stallion approached that was both familiar and unfamiliar to Zeil as the maroon unicorn spoke, “On the contrary Sir Zeil… it has more to do with you then anything.”
The stallion sat beside Zeil as he brought attention to their surroundings, “Just look at what you did Sir Zeil… everywhere you look is a creatures of a different titan, nation, culture, and upbringing as your own. You did, what the Titan Lucifer failed at more than three millennia ago… You united the world.”

At first Zeil wanted to ask who the stranger was, but before he did, he took the time to look over the room. As the unicorn said, everywhere were creatures of all kinds present and conversing equally amongst each other. Cunningham a shire horse of the Highland Clans, hippogriff from Home and Mount Eris, Ponies from every walk of life, Monks from the Ibex temple, Changeling from multiple swarms and so on. It was as the stranger said, it was as if the world had come together to unite in harmony. After acknowledging this, Zeil looked to the stranger as he spoke, “I'm sorry, but… have we met before?”
The stallion smiled as he replied, “My apologies, my name is Edelweiss.”
Zeil was surprised, “What?”
The stallion shook his head, “I know what you’re thinking but, no I'm not that Edelweiss. We personally haven’t met but I believe you know my grandfather, Professor Rose, or Captain Rose as you’ve called him.

Zeil smiled as he nodded, “ah I see, your Compass Rose’s grandson. Is he here? I didn’t see him during the ceremony.”
The stallion’s expression became saddened, “I'm sorry to say, he passed away late last year.”
Zeil replied with sympathy, “Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.”
Edelweiss shook his head, “Don’t be, never a day went by that he wouldn’t talk about the knight who saved his life. When we got the letter saying you arrived in Equestria, he was thrilled. Although, even after you returned marking the last of Lilith’s trapped. He refused to leave the city. But now, he can finally rest knowing the knight who saved his life can live out his happy ending.”
Zeil smiled, “as I hope he lived out his. Compass was a good friend. I'm sorry to hear about his passing.”
The young Stallion nodded as his expression changed, “There… is one more thing. Something my grandfather found shortly after you returned. But…” he looked at King Savean and Tempest as he replied, “Could we speak… privately?”
Seeing it was serious, Zeil looked to the king as he spoke, “Your actions are forgiven and forgotten. Just be opened minded from now one… if you will excuse me.”

With that said, Edelweiss and Zeil left the king as they moved closer to the door to the ballroom as Edelweiss spoke, “Not long after you returned, my grandfather decided to look further into the events that unfolded in Lilith. So much that he devised a theory about the events and decided to investigate a specific area.”
Zeil nodded, “Really? What exactly did he try to investigate?”
Edelweiss handed Zeil a cloth wrapped parcel as he spoke, “He didn’t say… but he found this, and said that if anyone should hold onto this… it’s you. This… is a kept secret that only he and I knew about. And he instructed that I give it to you and no one else.”

Zeil took the parcel then unwrapped the cloth package to reveal a small black shard of what looked to be obsidian or another onyx colored stone. But as Zeil laid eyes on the familiar artifact he immediately covered it back as he spoke with almost a full whisper, “Where… did he find this?”
Edelweiss replied, “In Lilith, near the street you and he awoke from. Why? What is it?”
Zeil put it away as he spoke, “Keep this secret from everyone here. Nopony should know of its existence. It’s best that you forget you’ve seen it also. For your protection never speak of this.”
Worried by the mage’s concern, Edelweiss replied, “Of course, but… wha-“
“A piece… of what entrapped Lilith. I thought it was all destroyed but… it seems it still exists somehow. Just keep this between us. Trust me, it will be better this way.”
Before Edelweiss could reply, Queen Novo approached as she spoke, “Mage Zeil…”
Realizing the Queen of the Hippogriffs approached, Edelweiss bowed in respect as Zeil turned to her, “Yes Queen novo?”
She replied, “Its time.”

Acting nonchalant Zeil looked to a nearby window at the darkness outside as he replied, “Is it?... So it is.”
She nodded, “If you will retrieve your catalysts, we can be on our way. The best place for the Lunar Eclipse to be seen would be the Temple on the far end of town.”
Zeil nodded, “Of course, though we don’t need to see the eclipse, we just need to finish before it ends.” He looked to Edelweiss, "Sorry but I have a matter to attend to. Remember, no one knows… for your sake and everypony else’s.”
Edelweiss nodded, as Zeil trotted away and through the party until he approached twilight and Shining Armor as the two sat at the table talking with Thorax as he approached Twilight smiled, “Mage Zeil, how is the party, Pinkie put in the extra hours for this one.”
She gestured to a pink pony in the back of the room who was currently and subtly pouring a ridiculously large bag of sugar into the punch as Zeil disregarded the spiking and nodded, “I'm sure she did. May I ask that you help me with something princess? I promise it’s a small favor.”
Princess Twilight smiled, “Really? What is it you need help with?”

Zeil spoke quietly, “If Zecora askes, could you make something up to keep her here for the next hour or so? I have a matter to attend to and I don’t want her involved.”
Shining Armor looked at Zeil and spoke, “Is it time?”
Zeil nodded, “It is, you and Thorax get Chief Basarum and meet me outside. Keep it subtle though.”
Shinning Armor and Thorax stood up as Thorax nodded, “Right, see you outside.”
As the two left, Princess Twilight was confused as Zeil continued, “Well, can you do that for me?”
Hearing the seriousness in his voice, Twilight nodded, “Sure… but… wher-“
“Mage Business… and I will say no more.”
She nodded with worry, “Right… well, then I'll do what I can to keep her here.”
Zeil smiled, “Thanks, I knew I could count on you.”
With no further explanation Zeil made his way towards the exit.

Later Zeil, Queen Novo, Princess Skystar, Thorax, Shining Armor, and Chief Basarum were trotting towards the edge of the city as Princess Skystar spoke, “Mom? Why am I helping with this again? Wouldn’t it be better that very few know about this spell since, Mage Zeil says it’s forbidden.”
The Queen Replied, “Mage Zeil says it’s forbidden, however as the future Queen and guardian of the pearl, you need to understand its true power… even if the power is unsuggested to be used like this.”
Ignoring the obvious criticism, Zeil and the group pressed on as Zeil looked forwards and paused, “If you’re going to follow me… you might as well trot beside us.”
Confused the party stopped as Zeil turned to a nearby alley as Silver and two other cloaked figures stepped out of the alley as Silver spoke, “one of my informants tells me that you intend of using forbidden magic tonight… and that’s not a euphemism.”

Zeil looked to the shorter Cloaked figure as he nodded, “Is that so… Hey Allen, How’s your wife?”
The addressed cloaked stallion put down his hood as he smiled, “Derpy’s fine thanks, she wanted to be here but she had work as per the norm.”
Zeil nodded, “I guess packages can't deliver themselves. Either way be sure to tell her and Dinky I said hi.” He looked to the taller figure, “And you… Khan Artist… I didn’t know you were a member of the Cutters. So in the Storm Kingdom, did you get captured on purpose help free Captain Sail? Or was that just a strange coincident?”
The cloaked griffin put down his hood as he smiled, “Well, when word of Captain Sail’s capture spread, Silver assigned me to help get him out. But it would seems we underestimated Captain Sail’s ability to plan ahead. I still escaped the night you did though, only I went inland long after you left.”

Trying to get to the point, Silver interrupted, “Now… about this spell…”
Zeil nodded, “You cannot see it… but… I will inform you that it won't bring any harm to anypony else. And it will not endanger the current order or balance that the world is currently experiencing. Trust me… nothing will change that involves you.”
Silver was skeptic, “Yea, but it’s still a forbidden spell.”
Zeil nodded, “As the mage, I am allow to use forbidden magic in order to maintain balance in this world. And… if I recall, none of you have any reason not to trust me… do you?”

The three looked at each other in confusion as Silver sighed, “Fine… but still answer this… you said no one else would be hurt… meaning someone will be. Right?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes… I will, a lot. More reason you shouldn’t be present… we will need full focus for this to go successfully.”
Silver took a few second to think to herself as Allen spoke up, “I trust him if that makes any difference.”
Kahn Artist nodded, “Agreed, like he said before, he hadn’t given us any reason not to trust him.”
Despite the truth, Silver was still skeptic as she looked to Queen Novo, “Your majesty… Surely you were skeptic of this as well right? Allow me to join whatever security you have ready.”
Zeil replied, “You still don’t trust me?”
She shook her head, “Actually I trust you with my very life… however, the other side of you has already destroyed one civilization in my lifetime, so I would prefer to be nearby should such a situation arise a second time.”

Feeling this was all he could get, Zeil sighed, “Fair enough… You can be nearby at the ready… but know that no matter what you hear, you will keep your distance unless Queen Novo orders It.” he looked to the queen, “Is that acceptable?”
Queen Novo nodded as Silver replied, “Alright fine, my orders will come from her majesty and no one else. Happy?”
Zeil replied with a disapproving tone as he looked to the rising moon, then turned away, “Not really, but we don’t have time to argue, let’s go.”
With nothing more to say, Zeil continued in their path as he and the rest of the party trotted back towards the same temple that his wedding took place in mere hours ago. As the group entered the chapel, Everypony looked towards the alter as The priestess and a few royal hippogriff guards waited next to a chest as The priestess spoke, “Your majesty… the pearl is safe and we are ready to begin.” She looked to the guards, “Come, due to the secrecy of this spell we must wait outside.”

Nodding to the order, the royal guards in the room followed closely as Priestess Melody left the room as Silver and the two cutters also followed as per their agreement. As soon as the door was shut, Zeil looked to the remaining party as he spoke, “Queen Novo, Princess Skystar, since you two are the gardians of the titan relic, I will alow you to witness the following spell, provided that you remain uninvolved… for your own protection of course.”
Queen Novo gave him a skeptic look as Princess Skystar spoke, “Don’t worry Mage Zeil, I trust you enough to let you do what you intend to do. Unless you need us to help you in any way?”
Zeil replied, “Actually… since it may become… difficult. I would sugest not getting involved even if I requested it. That is, until the spell is finished. When the lunar eclipse comes to a complete end.”

With no explanation, Zeil approached the chest in front of the alter as he opened the latch and allowed the chest to open automatically as a pinkish pearl pushed open the chest and began hovering over the ground as Queen novo spoke, “This is odd… its reacting as if it knows why you’re here.”
Zeil nodded, “It does… only it doesn’t know what I have planned for it. The relics existed as long as the titans themselves, but even they didn’t know the magic or mystery behind each one. The alicorn amulet, the Leviathan’s pearl, even the relic of Lilith were all beyond comprehention. Which is why the titans disapproved of using them for spells. Which… is what I intend to do.”
Zeil stepped around the pearl as he looked over it towards Shinning Armor, “Armor… did you bring it?”
Shinning Armor pulled a book from his saddlebag as he held it out, “I did… but you never mentioned why you needed this.”
Thorax approached, “What is it? A spell book? It looks very old.”
Zeil nodded, “It is… written by Starswerle the Bearded… or at least translated by him. The original author is named Mithias.”

Queen Novo gave him a confused look, “Mathias… that wouldn’t happen to be King Mathias of Lilith, would it?”
Zeil nodded, “The very same. He originally created the spell that Twilight Sparkle used to change herself into an alicorn. But since the original used power from the Titan Relic, It was omitted from the original spell book since the relics are too unpredictable. Starswirle hoped to find a safer replacement, but vanished before he was able to complete it. It was Twilight Sparkle, who found a safer alternative to using a titan relic.”
Chief Basarum replied, “Then why not use the safer version?”
Zeil shook his head, “For two reasons… one, I need to better understand Titan relics through first hoof experience. And two… there is only one pony in this world capable of using the safer version… and I still don’t trust her to know of this type of magic.”

Shining Armor was surprised, “Twily? Why wouldn’t you trust her with this?”
Zeil replied, “Because she is a princess of friendship and magic. A lighter side of magic. The less she knows of forbidden magic the better. Let’s not forget, the road to disaster is paved with good intention. I’ve seen when enchanters attempt to use dark magic for good… with disastrous results. If I can help it… I will ensure there is never a second Lilith. Anyways… onto our roles and why I called the three of you here.” Zeil gave his brother a serious look, “Thorax, you are the catalyst of the Changeling race. I will need you to close your eyes and envision what species you are… visualize everything that make us Changelings… then once you have it, you will need to grant full consent to the spell that will take place, then place your hoof on Shinning Armor’s shoulder and maintain that thought.” Thorax nodded as Zeil looked to Chief Basarum, “Chief, you will need to do the same. Envision everything about the Zebra race, grant consent, then place your hoof on Shinning Armor’s other shoulder.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Understood.”
Zeil then looked to Shining Armor, “Armor, you will be the conduit, open the book and read off the first few pages. They should tell you how to channel the magic. Once both make contact with you, you will need to place your hoof upon the pearl and request with your thoughts to change yourself, into a unicorn.”

Shining Armor gave Zeil a confused look, “But… I am a unicorn.”
Zeil nodded, “Exactly, the relic will be in a state of confusion, while it’s in this state, you can momentarily channel its magic for your own bidding, then as the eclipse begins, you can use the spell in the book to direct the pearl’s magic and fire at me in the form of a beam. Once the beam hits me I will attempt to steal the pearl’s magic and use it to change me into anything I desire… permanently. However… I will warn you. A titan relic won't take kindly to having it magic tampered with. It will retaliate with a surging pain that may tempt you to stop. But no matter what you do, don’t. Just know that the pain you feel will be nothing compared to the pain I will go through. But, no matter what I say, you must keep fireing the beam at me until the moon is completely concealed by the eclipse.”
As Zeil changed into his changeling form, Shining Armor nodded, “Got it…”

Readying themselves for the spell, Shinning Armor carefully read the first few pages of the book then stood before the titan pearl as Chief Basarum and Thorax stood on each side of him. On the opposite side of the pearl, Zeil stood ready as he looked towards a large stain glass window at a small transparent portion of the glass as he could see the moon outside. As Zeil looked to the moon, he then turned back to Shining Armor as he called, “Ready? Place your hoof on the pear and wait for my mark.”
As that was said, both Chief Basarum and Thorax took a brief moment to focus before placing their hoof on Shinning Armor’s shoulder as Shining Armor nodded in response before placing his hoof against the pearl and beginning to focus on what he was told. Though this sent a weird numbing feeling up his arm, Shinning Armor was able to ignore it as he looked to Zeil who was watching the moon’s phase very closely. Then just as a sliver of the moon’s edge turned black, Zeil called, “NOW!”

With that command, Shinning Armor fired a beam of magic from his horn and narrowed onto Zeil before hitting the changeling as he fell to a knee screaming in pain. As Zeil felt the increasing pain, Shinning Armor also started to feel an intense pain as he cringed in agony while Zeil’s echoed scream filled the room. Worried Princess Skystar stepped forward, “Mage Zeil! Mother we-“
“Stay back… we cannot get involved.”
Objecting the young princess responded to her mother’s order, “But Mage Zeil… it’s hurting him. We need to st-“
“N-NO!!!”
Worried the young mare looked back to Zeil as he was able to silence his screams long enough to speak through his pain, “N-No!... Stay back! I must bear this till the eclipse ends! The light… of the moon is a timer… when it ends… so will the spell.”

He looked to the changing moon just as the third quarter of its surface became dark as he continued to speak through his pain, “We are almost there… Just a little lon-“
At that moment, just as the final slit of the moon became new, the intense pain that Zeil and Shining Armor felt stopped as the group felt odd at the momentary silence that filled the room. However the silence was short lived as the pearl emitted a powerful shockwave that tossed everyone away from it. Shinning Armor, Chief Basarum, Thorax, and Zeil were all thrown away from the relic as the shockwave also pushed away all the pews, candelabras, and the two royal hippogriff as they and all the debris picked up from the shockwave slammed against the wall shattering all the pews as the shockwave also shattered the stained glass windows outward.

Responding to the destruction, the chapel doors opened with Silver, the royal guards, and Priestess Melody entering as the clergy mare spoke, “I told you all that we must stay out of it. Not until the ce… My chapel!”
With worry, the priestess rushed to a pile of debris that used to be a pew as she lifted the damaged seat, “These pews are a thousand years old… now look at them… this is terrible.”
With her guards assisting, Queen Novo picked herself up as she replied, “Relax… I will pay for all damages… besides, I witnessed these pews and the rest of the chapel’s destruction almost thirty years ago during the incident with Iron Hoof. Those pews are barley that old at best.”
the priestess gave her an annoyed look as she replied, “Shush, let me be mad about something for a little whi-“
At that moment, the rest of the pile started moving as the priestess silenced herself before backing away from the unexpected action in surprise.

Confused the two watched as Zeil in his zebra form picked himself up from under the rubble as he rubbed his head and spoke, “ouch… I don’t know what hurt more, the pearl’s retaliation or the slam against the wall… actually… the pearl… definitely the pearl most.”
Annoyed, Priestess Melody spoke, “Mage Zeil! Explain yourself! When I said you could use the Chapel I didn’t think you would destroy it!”
Rubbing his head, Zeil started to reply, “I apologize Priestess, I didn’t expect the pearl t-“
All of a sudden, Zeil realized something as he looked closely at the hippogriff in front of him as he spoke, “Priestess melody?”
Confused by his change of tone she replied, “Yes?...”

Slowly, Zeil’s eyes went from the priestess in front of him, before panning down to his hooves, then finally moving towards the shattered stain glass window as he could see the blood red moon outside, which followed the Lunar Eclipse. Confused by his silence, Priestess Melody spoke, “Mage Zeil?”
Zeil hesitated for a moment before replying, “I can't sense you.”
“Wh-what?”
Zeil smiled as he looked back down to his hooves, “Your aura… your emotions… I can't sense them.” He looked around the room at everyone present as he could see Shining Armor and Chief Basarum emerging from the debris as they began helping Thorax back onto his hooves. Seeing them, he continued, “None of you… I can't sense a single one in this room. It’s like… an empty haze… I can't sense anyone’s presence or emotions.”
As the three catalyst started to approach, Shining Armor spoke, “Mage Zeil… are you alright? I… wait… what’s wrong?”

Confused, the three looked at Zeil’s expression as Thorax spoke, “Br-brother… your aura… its… it’s changed. Your… you’re not a changeling anymore. You’re a zebra.”
Zeil looked at his hoof and smiled for a brief moment until the smile faded, “I did it… that means that that zebra I met all those years ago… was truly me… but that also means.” His smile faded, “There is one last leg of my journey to make.”
Silver approached as she spoke, “Mage Zeil… what happened here? What did you do to cause this?”
Zeil shook his head, “Sorry, but that concern is mine and my catalyst to know. For now we need to make our way back to the reception. Zecora is waiting with my friends as a distraction and now that I think about it… that’s probably a bad thing.”

Priestess Melody stepped forward, “Oh no you don’t! You break my chapel, you fix it. I'm not letting you get away with th-“
“We got this.”
All eyes went to Silver as she looked to one of her cloaked ponies, “Kahn? I'm sure you will make the arrangements?”
The griffin smiled as he replied, “Sure boss, I'll have the cleanup crew in here within the hour. It will be easier since… there is no body to dispose of.”
Silver smiled, “Good, just make sure everypony pulls their weight.” She looked back to Zeil, “I don’t know what you did, but… I guess since aside from property damage, no one got hurt…so I'll ignore this… for now.”
Glancing over Kahn’s comment, Zeil smiled, “Thanks Silver, I appreciate it. I can fill you in on small details later, but for now… my wife is waiting for me.”
That said, Zeil with his new permanent form left the chapel to return to where his wedding reception was being held.”

Later back at the reception, Zeil, Chief Basarum, and Thorax entered the ballroom to see a number of guests gathered together with Cunningham standing at the center of the group as he laughed and spoke with Zecora, “And that, dear lass, is why potions reach further than any other form of magic. Which, now that I think about it. Means that I would be Zeil’s favorite teacher, now wouldn’t it?”
The large Shire horse threw his head back in a gloating laugh as the rest of the group consisting of Serenity, Zecora, Queen Mira, Shangri-La, Lady Zera, Princess Twilight, and Princess Cadence could only give the boastful shire a dull look. That is, except for Zecora who could only give him a pleasant smile as she replied, “I see, his favorite teacher? What an honor it must be… however if I'm not mistaken. Mage Zeil, is now married to me.”
Taking a moment to give her a confused look, Cunningham paused before laughing out loud as he replied, “Aye that’s right… I guess I can't argue with that fact now can I? But s’pose, the wee laddie will agree that I'm a close second if I must say.” He laughed a little more before adding, “You’re quick with the response Mrs. Mage of Zebrica. Reminds me of my own wife. I can see why the wee laddie married ya. He’s got good taste if I should say the least.”

Zeil approached as he stepped to his wife’s side and replied, “I see your trying to one up everypony here aren’t you Cunningham. As per usual.”
Cunningham smile, “Can ya blame me lad? It aint often I can boast about being a teacher to the Mage of Zebrica, even if it’s amongst your other teachers. Though I think even after my claim. It’s hard to hold a candle to a group like this. You keep quite the company about ya don’t you, wee laddie?”
Zeil smiled as he spoke, “Speaking of teaching… there is something that bothered me shortly after I left the Highlands… before I left, you mentioned that you didn’t know the spirit inhabiting my body but mentioned that it was something truly powerful right?”
Cunningham smiled, “S'pose I did.”
Zeil replied, “Honestly… I think you knew from the very start that it was Lucifer… didn’t you?”
Cunningham laughed before replying, “Guilty as charged. But I felt it’d be a better lesson learned on your own. Think of it as… a better obstacle to conquer on the fly.”
Zeil smiled, “oh?... okay that makes sense. That will make it easier for me to teach you the same then.”

Zeil looked to Queen Mira as he spoke, “Your majesty? Remember when I told you about my journey to the Highlands? I mentioned the shire clan that exterminated the changeling hive there?”
It didn’t take Zeil’s old changeling abilities to know that Cunningham was starting to feel nervous as the queen thought to herself, “Why… yes Sir Zeil. I believe I recall you telling me that story. About the druid who led the charge.”
Zeil nodded, “yes… well I want to tell you that Cunningham here. Is that very druid. You know, the one who laid ruin to the Highland Hive.”
At that moment, Cunningham as well as most of the ponies in the group felt uneasy as Queen Mira gave him a stern look, “Is that so?...”
Zeil gave a cheeky smile, as Cunningham felt speechless as he tried to reply, “I… well… that is a…”
It felt like an eternity passed before Queen Mira’s expression changed as she bowed her head and spoke with sympathy, “I offer my most humble of apologies. I doubt there is anything I can say in response to the injustice you went through. But it would further insult our race for me to ignore the crime committed upon you and your clan.”

Most of the ponies in the group felt shocked as Cunningham was dumbfounded, “Say what now?”
Queen Mira kept her bowed as she replied, “Though I have not been reformed as long as Thorax, I as well as most reformed changeling know the value of love, why it was wrong for us to steal it, and the feeling of having love in our hearts for another. But to claim the life of your true love for something as petty as anger, it’s truly unforgivable. Though I only felt it briefly, I know what’s it’s like to be in love… and I cannot imagine the pain watching him die before me.”
As that was said, Zecora reached over and took Zeil’s hoof as he and the rest of the group could only smile at the heartfelt apology as Cunningham replied, “I um… I think it better I owe you the apology. As Mage Zeil said… I killed the entire Hive. And… it’s a horrid sin I cannot take back.”
Queen Mira rose from her bow, “Casualties of war sadly… In the past, it seems we changelings did nothing more but fought a senseless war against others. Sir Zeil, Sir Apex, Sir Thorax, even Mr. Shangri La all know the risk and sacrifice that life held for ones such as us. And though it seems extreme, war was a proper response, and I will not fault you for that. Especially since Mage Zeil has told me that, you felt guilty afterword’s. I believe my kind drove you to that action and guilt. And for that I humbly request your forgiveness for my brethren’s crime.”

As the group smiled at the peace between the changeling and the shire horses, Zecora looked to Zeil with a smile before pausing for a brief moment, “Z-Zeil?”
Zeil looked to his wife, “Yes?”
She tried to speak, “Something seems, off. In fact it’s quite strange. But you don’t seem the same. It appears, you’ve changed.”
Hearing his words, Queen Mira and Shangri-La gave him a confused look as Shangri-La spoke, “She’s right… but… how? This is strange?”
Queen Mira nodded, “You’re not… but… is this even possible?”
Zeil Looked at Zecora as he spoke, “Let’s say I did, and… I'm now different then before… is… different okay?”
Zecora gave Zeil a stern look into his eyes as if she were reading his very soul. As she did a moment of silence passed that caused Zeil to feel somewhat nervous to her stern gaze. Then as he started to worry, Zecora broke his worry as she reached up and tapped the end of his muzzle, “Boop.”
Flinching to the sudden playful action, Zeil rubbed his nose as Zecora giggled playfully, “As I said before, and don’t think any mistake. I love you for you, no matter the form you take.”
Zeil smiled back, as he place his hoof against hers and replied, “Good, because no matter what, I can only be balance by your side. You are my light and my love, till death… and beyond.”

Epilogue
The Cycle Continues
(Year 30, month 06, day 15)
29 years later

An elderly Zeil wearing a pitch black cloak stood on the cliff’s edge as he looked down to a blue poison joke that grew at his hooves. Knowing that this same plant glowed a golden hue mere days ago only added to the pain as tears fell from his face as he plucked the plant from the ground and held it over the cliff’s edge before mumbling to himself, “Till death… and beyond.”
With that, the Stallion released the plant and allowed it to fall into the forest below as he looked far into the distance as a voice spoke up behind him, “Father?”
At the edge of the forest behind him, stood a young zebra who waited patiently as her father spoke without turning to the voice, “Zera… How was the service?”

Zera nodded, “It was beautiful, but… everypony was worried when they didn’t see you there. Princess Twilight even asked about you. She said that if you need any help, she was willing to lend a hoof.”
He sighed, “I couldn’t see her like that. Zecora… my love, my life, my light… I want to remember her for who she was. Her smile, her kindness, I want to remember her as the mare I loved… not some body in a box.”
Zera nodded as she replied, “I… I understand, that said, I was able to get what you requested. Though, twilight walked in as I was collecting it.”
The young mare pulled a vail out and sat it on the ground as a number of vined grew across the ground transporting the vail to Zeil as he picked it up and looked at the red contents. Knowing it was blood, Zeil replied, “I see… and what did she say when she saw what you were doing?”
Zera replied, “She demanded that I tell her why I was collecting it.”
Zeil smiled, “Did she? And your response?”
She replied with a serious tone, “I told her that one needn’t concern themselves with matters to the Mage of Zebrica.”
Zeil nodded with his smiled, “Good girl… I taught you well.”
As Zeil put the vail into his cloak Zera spoke, “Father… your leaving… aren’t you?”

Zeil looked back over the forest as he replied, “Did you look into my future to see that?”
She shook her head, “You know that the oracle cannot see into the mage’s Future. Grandmother couldn’t, and neither can I. But… I looked into my own… and… failed to see you in it.”
Zeil nodded, “Did you look further than that?... into the next decade perhaps?”
Zera hesitated before nodding in response, “I… I did.”
Zeil nodded, “and?”
Zera replied with a stern ton as she recited her prophecy, “A dark entity will rise wielding the power of the pegasi… I only saw shadows, but I know for a fact that those shadows belong to Princess Umbra of Equestria.”
Zeil nodded, “Princess Luna’s daughter, the flower filly at our wedding, and one of my and Zecora’s best students. Seems Nightmare Moon’s blood and anger has been passed to the next generation. And when it takes her heart, she will become something else… she will become Thundaga.”
Zera spoke, “Thundaga… Father, we must do something to stop this.”
“We cannot.”
“There must be something… perhaps Princess Luna can say something.”
“It won't help.”
“If we gather all the princesses together then surl-“
“Zera enough.”

Pausing with concern, Zera stood silent as Zeil sighed, “You saw this vision… remember what your grandmother taught you. All visions seen by the oracle come to pass. They cannot be changed, even if I hold the power to do so… I cannot.”
Zera was confused, “Why? Isn’t it the Mage’s task to stop darkness from spreading?”
Zeil sighed, “Zera, the task of the mage it so maintain balance of light and dark… nothing more.”
“But Thundaga will tip that balance… won't she?”
Zeil didn’t answer, instead he only held his silence as Zera’s eyes widened, “She is the balance… isn’t she?”
Zeil nodded, “Once I'm gone, then there will be more light then darkness. She will balance that when the darkness takes her heart.”
Zera shook her head, “But… she is going to put the kingdom in a state of forced peace. She will sacrifice all freedom for this cause. It’s basically imprisonment for all residents of this kingdom. Then… she will spread her hoof across the world. And all who stand in her way will be crushed for this peace. She will bring the world to its own imprisonment. As you’ve said many times, the road to destruction is paved with the best of intentions. If we don’t do something she will lead Equestria to this destruction.”
Zeil nodded, “She will… but it will still balance everything. In time… her darkness will fade and by then the next mage will emerge to regain balance and to help return the kingdom to what it is now.”
“When? When will the next mage be chosen?”
Zeil’s expression became uneasy as he replied, “Best… you don’t know.”

Understanding, Zera sat down in sadness as she replied, “I see… then… it’s after my lifetime.”
Zeil nodded, “It is…”
Tears built up in her eyes, “I… I don’t know what to do.”
Zeil turned to her, “Zera.”
She spoke in a combination of anger and sadness, “What do I do now?” she looked down in sadness, “Mother is gone, you are leaving, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Uncle Thorax. Even Princess Twilight’s health is fading! It won't be long before I'm left alone.”
“Zera…”
She stepped closer and yelled in anger, “Tell me! What am I supposed to do knowing I have to burden this dark future alone!?!”
After that outburst, Zera sat back down as tears fell from her face, “Please… please don’t go… I… I don’t want to be alone.”

Seeing his daughter cry before him, Zeil Sighed as he trotted to his daughter then hugged her as he spoke softly, “Zera… I know it’s hard to see the world change around you. But… the world is ever changing. With the departure of the last generation, we must look towards the next… The elements of harmony and its magic may very well fade someday, but with the stories they held, our future isn’t lost. Not if… you guide them with motivation.”
She stopped hugging her father as Zera replied, “Motivation?”
Zeil smiled, “You are the Oracle of Zebrica, Your very words can inspire everypony from near and far. And, that’s what you should do. Make a list of predictions, starting with the death of Twilight Sparkle. Then continued with the fall of Equestria, the rise of Thundaga, her spread across the world, etcetera, etcetera. Then look extra far into the future, look to a time when the world starts to balance further. Seek out… the next commander.”
She gave him a confused look, “Commander? You mean like Commander Bolt, the Pegasus who stopped the dark alicorn?”

Zeil shook his head, “Never mind, just give them something to have hope in. write all these predictions down and leave them with someone we trust who will live much longer then us… maybe… the dragon Spike?”
“Spike?”
He nodded, “yes, then with that in his possession… leave Equestria.”
Zera was shocked, “Leave?... but… where should I go?”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “Doesn’t matter… anywhere… There is a great big world out there, and in my lifetime I only managed to see half of it. Why not take the time to see the rest.”
Zera felt uneasy as she replied, “But… I don’t…”
“Zera… you said yourself that you don’t want to be alone. But this is a chance to never be alone again. See the world, make new friends, or find some old ones. Zebrica is only across the sea, the highlands are just north east of that. Knowing you, you will find a new home that will fit you better then what Equestria will soon become.”

Zera gave her father a concerned look, “But… what about you?”
Zeil hugged his daughter as he replied, “Zera… your mother, my light… is gone. And the world cannot survive with an imbalanced mage. There is one more thing I must do, but then… I too will be gone. But you will live on, Daughter to the Enchantress of the Everfree, and the Mage of Zebrica. A zebra enchantress, and the changeling with powers of a titan. Through you, the world will still have hope. And… we will be with you… as we’ve always been.”
She hugged him back as she asked, “But… where will you be? Where are you going for your last task?”
He smiled, “I have to seek out a young indecisive fool who has no idea what he’s about to get into. But even after I'm gone, just know. You are the greatest magic that I or your mother could have ever created. And I love you with all that I have left. Because without you… I have nothing.”
She replied, “And I love you Father… whatever balance you must create, I will be here supporting you.”
With their last hug, Zeil turned away from his daughter and left the area as he put the hood up on his cloak, and left the area for one last journey.

Months later as winter for the region came to its end, Zeil was traveling down a familiar road wearing his pitch black cloak and a saddlebag with a dagger on his side. As he approached the top of a hill, Zeil looked out into the distance as he saw a vast field of snow and dead crops before remembering the beauty that was once on these very grounds. Panning his eyes over the horizon, Zeil eventually saw the massive canopied forest in the distance, then as his eyes panned towards closer visuals, they rested on a small cracked statue that looked to be a fat griffin that sat barely a foot tall, but was completely split down the middle with age. As he looked to the small familiar statue he nodded, “Well, this is as good a place as any.” That said, Zeil drew the dagger on his side as he held it up to his mane and mumbled, “Now to offer a catalyst… it isn’t much but it will give it form, and somewhat disguise me from my past self.”
With that said, Zeil grabbed a portion of his mane and ran the blade along it, giving it a crude but effective haircut.

After that was done, Zeil sheathed the dagger as he reached into his saddlebag and pulled out a small cloth wrapped item as he unwrapped it to reveal a shard of what was once a black pearl. The same pearl that caused the eternal war in Lilith. As he held out the relic he spoke, “Here goes… hope my studying of this magic is accurate.”
With the relic in one hoof and portion of his mane in the other, Zeil used the shard to draw a diamond shaped marking in the ground, then placed the hairs of his main in its center before placing the shard of the relic on top. Then with the enchantment mark ready, he pulled Tome of the mage from his saddlebag as he looked through the pages before stopping on a recent entry at the back of the tome. Looking at the symbols which rearranged themselves to become legible to him, Zeil spoke, “Relic of old, hear these words and use my form. Reveal yourself to me so we may speak.”
As that was said, the hairs under the relic shard singed away as the smoke it left circled above the relic shard before taking the same form Zeil held as it spoke, “To meet one with such knowledge of my form… I can only be impressed. I like the rest of the relics hold great power foreign to all even the very titans themselves. But since you have summoned me to speak, you may do so.”

Zeil gave the form an unimpressed look as he spoke, “First let me ask out of my own curiosity… do you know me? Or have we met in any way prior to now?”
The form shook his head, “No… I do not recall speaking with any prior to now. If this seems false to you, then perhaps what you spoke to was a remnant of myself that no longer is. If this is true… I hold somewhat concern for my own future.”
Zeil put away the tome as he replied, “As you should… I would like to ask that you do two things for me… first. I want you to take me back to the past. To the last time I stood upon this very ground, I would like to do so, in hopes of never returning to this time.”
The figure nodded, “I see, one way travel. And your second request?”
Zeil nodded as he spoke with a serious tone, “After you take me to the past, I want you to transport yourself into the future.”
The Form nodded, I see… to what time may I ask?”
Zeil shook his head, “I did not say to any time… I just said into the future. I want you to transport yourself into the future indefinitely… until you reach the very end of time itself.”
The form was unsure, “And if time is infinite?”
Zeil replied with a stern look, “Then so too will be your travel.”

The figure sighed in disappointment, “So… you simply wish to remove me from existence itself don’t you?”
Zeil nodded, “to insure you never risk any in this world again… yes.”
He nodded, “You are a cruel wielder… but a wielder nonetheless… As a relic I must obey any who rightfully wields me. Very well. Upon my transporting you to the past, I will transport myself into the infinity, ensuring that I will no longer exist in this, or any timeline. Are you ready for me to fulfill these requests?”
Zeil Nodded as he adjusted the hood on his cloak to ensure that it was partially covering his face, “Yes… I am.”
The figure nodded, “Very well, then I bid you farewell now… and eternally.”
As that was said, the smoke made apparition dispersed as the small black shard glowed brightly, then cracked completely before dissolving into tiny fragments that disappeared into the very air around him. Then like the relic before, cracks started appearing on Zeil’s hoof as Zeil looked to them as they slowly started spreading up his arm and across his body as Zeil recognized this familiar feeling before standing still and closing his eyes in preparation of what would come next.

As the cracks made their way across his body, Zeil felt them spread up his neck and across his face until the feeling faded as it was replaced with different feelings entirely. The cold brisk air around him immediately changed to a warmer but soothing breeze. With this feeling, the sounds of cracking that was his body mere moments ago was replaced with a rustling sounds of vast windy grasslands as Zeil knew what was happening as he opened his eyes to a brand new sight. As soon as his eyes were open, he immediately saw a younger version of his zebra self as the surprised younger stallion took a step back in worry as he stared at his older self in fear. Ignoring the obvious fear in his younger self, Zeil paned his eyes around as he looked at the landscape. The frozen grounds around him were now filled with waving fields of golden wheat as the surroundings gave off a feel of peace in the air. Then as he looked around, Zeil’s eyes stopped at the small chubby statue that sat on the side of the road. Unlike the statue he had seen moments ago, this little griffin was brand new, clean, and whole. With his cloak hiding most of his face from his younger self, Zeil smiled slightly as he mumbled too quietly to be noticed, “I'm back…”
Removing the smile from his face, the elder Zeil looked back to his younger self with an uninterested look as he spoke, “And so… the cycle continues.”

Bk1/Ch1 Kingdom of the Charred Sand

Epilogue
The Black Sand Desert

The moon light shined across the desert as the black sand reflected its light making it seem like a black ocean with a slight glimpse of dawn’s twilight on the horizon. As the peaceful night slowly came to an end, a magic portal appeared at the top of a high sand dune as the purplish portal hissed and hummed over the sounds of the turmoil on the other side. With the portal sitting stationary, grass, dirt, branches and golden joke leaves came flying out of the portal as they were soon accompanies by an equestrian sword that flew through and embedded itself in the sand, then shortly after a changeling with one wing who emerged from the portal, hit the ground, and rolled down the dune passed the embedded blade and to the base of the hill.

As soon as he stopped rolling, Zeil picked himself up as he rubbed his head and tried to get over his dizziness. With his senses returning to him, Zeil realized what happened as he quickly looked up the dune toward the still opened portal that sat on its peak. Desperate, Zeil rushed up the sand dune as fast as he could in hopes of reaching the portal before it closed. However with the sand shifting under his hooves, Zeil found himself unsuccessful as the magic portal vanished mere moment before he was able to reach it. As soon as the portal vanished, Zeil reached the top of the dun as he looked at the ground where it once sat, “No… no…” he franticly looked around to see if it moved somewhere else, but saw nothing as he continued “No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, NO!!!”
In a fit of rage, Zeil punched the ground beneath him as his hoof buried itself in the sand.

With his mind circling his actions, Zeil took a few seconds to calm himself down as he closed his eyes and mumbled, “This… this isn’t happening… this has to be a dream… tell me this is a dr-”
Before he could finish, Zeil started to feel the sand surrounding his buried hoof as he picked it up and examined the sand as it poured out of the holes in his changeling hoof, “This… it’s charred sand… wait…” he looked around, this time at his surrounding, “The Land of the Black Sand… I’m back here?… but… how?...”
As he looked around he felt a strong gust of wind come from behind as he turned to look in the direction as he started seeing the twilight of dawn approaching. As soon as he saw the light he realized his danger as he spoke, “Sunrise… no… I gotta find shelter.”
Knowing the impending danger, Zeil started running down from the sand dune as fast as he could. As he ran, the wind continued increasing with the expanding air behind him. As he continued through the desert, he saw a high cliff in front of him as he rushed to its base hoping to find a crevice to take cover in. Unfortunately as he reached the base of the cliff there was no crevice or cavity to hide in so with a desperate sprint, Zeil rushed down the left face of the cliff as the sunlight emerged on its highest point as it ran down causing every stone it touch to begin smoking with the increasing heat.

As he ran, something fortunate caught his eye. At the base of the cliff just a few hundred feet in front of him, Zeil could see a small cave in the ground that went under the cliff’s base. Knowing that this was his only chance, Zeil rushed towards the cave as fast as he could, but as he closed on the cave so too did the sunlight close on him as he could already feel the intense heat from the imminent danger. Zeil rushed as fast as he could knowing that it would be down to the wire, only he was slightly wrong. Barely ten second before he reached the cave entrance, the sunlight made contact with his back and neck as it already started burning the left side of his body with intense heat.

With his skin burning from the sunlight’s contact, the desperate changeling dove into the cave entrance as he hit the ground rolling with his burned skin hurting every inch of his left side from the tip of his lone wing to the bottom of his hooves. Pain riddled but grateful he made it, Zeil with his body in too much pain to make quick movements, crawled to the inside wall of the cave as he panted in pain at the burns he felt and the increasing heat that started entering through the cave’s entrance. With the temperature rising and his body feeling a slight numbness through all his pain, Zeil laid against the wall of the cave as he thought about where he was and mumbled, “I… I’m… sorry… I’m sorry I won’t be able to meet you z… Zecora…”
With his body too exhausted to keep his senses, Zeil decided to stop talking as the increasing heat wasted no time in draining him even more, of his energy. As time started to pass, Zeil knew that with the cave he was in being too small, that he could only stay where he was till the evening, however with no food or water, he knew that his chances of survival was now next to none. Seeing that his options were limited, Zeil laid down on his right side as his left was completely burned by the instant heat of the outside sun.

An hour later, Zeil tried everything he could to stay awake as he laid on the bottom corner of the small cave as he started to mumble, “If its day here… then… sunset should have already passed in Equestria… meaning… Zecora is waiting for me… but… I won’t be able to make it… I won’t be there to tell her the truth… I can’t even explain to her why… I…” tears started to build up in his eyes as he looked at the holes in his hoof, “I can’t even tell her I’m sorry, or… or anything… It’s… it’s not fair… I… I didn’t…”
With the stress of his thoughts weighing down on his already exhausted body, the changeling didn’t have the strength to finish his sentence as he started losing consciousness. However just before he passed out, a pony like figure wearing a shiny metallic cloak emerged from the entrance to his small cave as it looked directly at him before everything went black.

Love’s Lost Decade
Book 1: Kingdom of the Charred Sand
Chapter 1
Year 00, Month 00, Day 01

Zecora stood on the cliff in the Everfree Forest as she looked at the forest through the dancing fireflies. Seeing her waiting, Zeil changed into his zebra form as he stepped towards her from behind as he spoke, “Zecora?...”
Without looking back at him, she spoke, “You said you’d be here… Where the fire flies dance… and I foolishly listened… I gave you a chance.”
Trying to recall how long it had been since the night he was supposed to meet her, Zeil replied, “Zecora I’m sorry, it was out of my control. You see I was th-“
Zecora turned to him and replied with anger in her expression and tone, “I know what you are, you are not of my kind, and you played me a fool, and toyed with my mind.”
the disguised changeling tried to replay, “That’s not true, Zecora I wasn’t trying to fool you to make fun of you, I stayed because I lo-“
Zecora held out a small black vial as she spoke, “Silence your words, for my heart you can’t mend, but I'll leave this to part, for we won’t meet again.”

With that, Zecora dropped the small glass vial as it hit the ground and shattered as the black potion inside the vial splattered on the ground into a small puddle. Confused Zeil watched the small puddle of potion as it hesitated for a brief moment before coming to life and slithering along the ground towards him at an incredible speed like a snake ambushing its prey. As the potion closed in on Zeil, the confused changeling stepped back as the slithering potion wrapped around Zeil’s neck and hooves before lifting him up and stretching his body out before solidifying into black vines. With the vines wrapped around each hoof and his neck, Zeil struggled to free himself while looking at Zecora, “Zecora… stop, please… I’m… not your enemy… I… I love you!”
With no sympathy for his words, Zecora turned away and slowly vanished as another voice replied, “What were you expecting Zeil?...”
Hearing the familiar voice sent a chill up his spine as Zeil froze in place. Slowly a tall changeling trotted out from behind him as she continued, “Were you expecting a warm welcome?... were you expecting a hug and kiss?... to embrace one another before leaving for you’re, happily ever after?” the voice chuckled, “You’re a fool…”
Zeil watched as the familiar changeling trotted in front of him and turned to face him as he spoke, “Queen Chrysalis…”

Queen Chrysalis stood before Zeil as she replied, “And what did you intend to do once I found out, hmm? Did you think I would allow it? Did you assume I would merely overlook your treacherous ways and wish you luck on this absurdity that you call, love?...”
Zeil didn’t know how to answer, instead he only stared at his queen in worry as she reached out and touched his chest. As the queen’s hoof touched him, Zeil’s body from that point outward started changing back into his changeling form as she continued, “Look at what you are… you think because you spent a few days under her roof that you could possibly pass yourself off as one of them?...” She turned away as she replied, “You are an even greater fool then I could expect from any of my drones. And…” A dagger magically appeared in her hoof as she replied “I HAVE NO NEED FOR FOOLS!!!”

With that said, Queen Chrysalis turned to him and thrust the dagger towards his chest. As the dagger made contact, Zeil opened his eyes in a state of panic as he pushed against the only thing in front of him as the membrane broke free causing him to fall out of a changeling cocoon. After falling to the floor, Zeil found himself in an underground cavern full of healing cocoons as he took deep breaths to calm himself down from the terrifying dream he just went through. As soon as he was able to calm himself, Zeil rubbed his head in relief as he sighed, “It… was a dream… but it was so re-”
A short second after rubbing his face, Zeil found that he had changed into his zebra form while he was unconscious so he could only sigh in hopelessness as he changed into a changeling and started to examine his surroundings. As he looked through each cocoon in the room, Zeil tried to figure out where he was. It was obvious that he was in a changeling hive, but where was this hive, and who ruled it? There was no hive without workers, and no workers without a queen. After looking at each cocoon, Zeil turned towards the only entrance into the cavern as he paused when he saw an armored changeling enter the cavern with a chipped horn. As soon as the two saw each other the familiar changeling smiled, “Zeil? I thought that was you. How have you been brother?”

Zeil smiled, “Super? You’re here? Wait… am I back in the Changeling Kingdom?”
The familiar changeling shook his head as he approached him, “I wish… no we are far from it. This is a new hive buried under the Land of the Black Sand. Oh… and no one calls me Super anymore. I go by Sonic now. It doesn’t sound like a superhero’s name, and it isn’t as wordy as Supersonic.”
Zeil tried to figure out what happened, “Wait… a new hive?”
The sibling smiled as he turned towards the chamber’s entrance, “Yea… wanna see? It’s pretty cool.”
With that Sonic led Zeil through the cavern until they entered a large chamber filled with busy changelings as they worked hard to construct the hive. Looking through the unfinished hive Zeil spoke, “So… we’re underground then?”
Sonic replied, “Well yea, you think we could make a hive like this on the surface? This sun would cook us in seconds… speaking of which, looks like your burns healed nicely.”

Zeil felt the left side of his face as he looked down his body and noticed that the burns the sun gave him before he fell unconscious were gone as he replied, “Looks like it… those healing cocoons work fast. Though… it would be better if they regrew limbs.”
Sonic nodded, “Yea… that’s true. By the way, I notice both your wings, did Shining Armor do that to you?”
Confused, Zeil turned to look at his only wing, “Both? What are you tal-“
As Zeil looked at his only wing, he was surprised that though it was there, there was something strange about it. Rather than being greenish and transparent, he could see strange glitter like color patches that seemed to be incased in them on the inside. As he looked at the discoloring, Zeil grabbed his wing and looked at it carefully as he spoke, “What is this?”
Sonic replied, “I donno, I thought it was rot when I first saw it, but it didn’t get healed by the cocoon so… I have no idea.”

Zeil released his wing as he replied, “Well… it doesn’t hurt or anything… so I guess its fine… for now anyways.”
Sonic added, “So… the other wing was Shining Armor then?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I lost that one shortly after the attack on Canterlot. In fact you should have seen me after that fight, I was a total mess. It’s a miracle I survived at all.”
Sonic smiled, “I’m sure, leave it to my big brother drone to take a full-fledged beating and still live to evade the prince for this long.”
Zeil sighed with irritation, “I told you to stop calling me that. Anyways, the chip is still there, so looks like you weren’t injured in the attack at all were you?”
Sonic sighed as he rubbed his chipped horn, “Not really, that weird pink pony shot me in the face with some sort of… confetti cannon, giving me a head ache from Tartarus. Then not long after the queen and the rest of us were tossed out of the city like rag dolls. I survived the fall, but I was found unconscious in a tree then tossed into some cell in Trottingham with a broken rib. A few days later, Prince Armor visited me and transported me and a few others here. Since I was among the first few, the princess made me captain of her guards.”
Zeil smiled, “Really? Lucky yo- wait princess?” he turned completely to his brother, “You mean… Princess Mira?... She’s still here?”

Sonic smiled with pride, “Yea she is… and is she gonna be stoked to see you, Sir Zeil.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Sir Zeil, what are yo- Oh that’s right, she refers to us alpha drones like knights or something like that. I didn’t think she’d still be here after all these years though.”
Sonic nodded, “Yea, ever since she and the queen had their argument over how the Marble Oasis fell, she’s been living here and striving to build her own hive away from the changeling kingdom.”
Zeil nodded, “Surprising… this place was barely livable to begin with… and she’s been living here for almost five years? I’d think she would make up with Queen Chrysalis by now.”
Sonic nodded as he replied, “Well I guess Sibling arguments aren’t resolved as easily as we thought… luckily we’ve never argued like that.”
Zeil replied as he looked around the hive, “Yea… luckily.”
Sonic smiled as he pat his broth on the back, “Well it’s not like she hasn’t been doing well for herself. Look at this place, with her leadership and our help, she has turned this place into a fully functioning hive. All its missing is the nursery, and she is seeing to that as we speak. Actually we should go see her. Like I said, she’ll be happy to see you I’ll bet.”

With an excited step, Sonic jumped into the air and flew off towards the nursery chamber as his flightless sibling stood where he was and waited a few seconds till Sonic realized he was flying alone and turned back to return to his brother. When Sonic made it back to Zeil he spoke in embarrassment, “Yea… sorry. I forgot you can’t fly anymore.” Sonic landed as he started trotting up the path, “Guess we’ll take the long way.”
Zeil sighed, “Yea… I guess so.”
With that Zeil followed Sonic up the path as they started on their walk to the nursery chamber which was closer to the surface. As they continued, Zeil asked, “So… how long was I out?”
Sonic replied, “About twelve hours or so.”
Zeil thought to himself as he mumbled, “Then… Zecora probably realized I’m not coming by now.”
Unable to hear his exact words, Sonic spoke, “What was that?”
Zeil replied, “Oh… it’s um… nothing.”
Though Zeil did sound convincing, he didn’t fool Sonic for a second, but since they were close, he knew that Zeil would tell him if something was truly wrong, so he just disregarded it for the time being.

As they trotted to the nursery, Zeil tried to get his mind of Zecora, so he asked, “So, any word from the Queen or any of the changelings in the attack?”
Sonic sighed, “Not much… I hear the queen made it back to the kingdom with most of us, but about fifty were banished here. You’re the only alpha drone.”
Zeil was surprised, “Fifty? And I’m the only alpha?”
Sonic shook his head, “Yea. A lot of us were dispersed since the attack. Every drone in the queen’s ranks went missing. Apex, Pharynx, even Thorax but seeing that he was kind of a wimp I'm sure he is dead.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Yea Thorax… he was never really the toughest egg in the nursery.”
Sonic chuckled, “Yea… well after the attack things here have been a little uneasy, but we go about it like it’s the norm. I almost forgot how different the princess was compared to the queen. Much more elegant, but at the same time tough. I'd like to think that if she had fought with us in Canterlot we would have beaten those ponies like a dirty rug.”
As curious as the thought was, Zeil didn’t respond. His thoughts were more on Zecora, Equestria, and what his next action should be.

After a few minutes of trotting, the two finally made it to the nursery as they entered to see a tall beautiful changeling with a long pink mane, and iris eyes directing workers as both Sonic and Zeil approached her and bowed in respect as Sonic spoke, “Your majesty… you wanted me to show Zeil to you as soon as he recovered?”
The regal changeling turned to Sonic as she spoke, “Yes captain I did, and thank you for doing so.” She looked at Zeil “Sir Zeil?… do you, remember me?”
Zeil replied, “Yes your majesty, and it’s good to see you again.”
Princess Mira smiled, “As it is to see you, I’m grateful that you were able to be saved from the sun before it could cause permanent harm, but your wing… are you alright? I hope that injury wasn’t a result of my sister’s greed.”
Zeil rose from his bow as he replied, “Well… sort of… actu-”
Before he could finish Sonic spoke over him, “Its nothing your majesty. My brother here has always been the strongest of us all. If it wasn’t for him the queen wouldn’t have even made it into the city in the first place. In fact he can take on an army twice the size as the one in Canterlot and still brush off his wounds with no concern.”

Annoyed he was being talked over, Zeil looked at Sonic in irritation as the princess giggled, “Yes well, I hope it should never come to that…” She lowered her voice as she spoke softly, “Sir Zeil… could… could you and I speak privately for a moment?”
Zeil nodded as he replied “Of course your majesty, it would be a pleasure.”
With that, the two started trotting through the nursery as they left Sonic behind at the entrance. As they trotted through Princess Mira looked at a small hole in the ceiling as she spoke, “Do you like what I’m doing with this room? I thought it would be good to let in a small stream of sunlight in the middle of the room so that the eggs would get plenty of warmth. Of course I intend to block off the area so the young ones don’t herm themselves.”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “It’s um… nice… I guess… um… please don’t seem me rude your majesty… but, is there a reason you want my opinion on this room?”
The princess smiled as she replied, “Well since you will be overseeing the hatchlings in their youth, I want this room to be satisfactory in your eyes.”
Zeil was confused, “You want to put me in charge of the nursery?”
Princess Mira shook her head as she replied, “Well… actually Sir Zeil… you… will see to their lively hood both here… and well afterwards.”
Still not following Zeil gave her a concerned look, “What do you mean by that your majesty?”
Princess Mira blushed, “Well… you see… I’m a princess… and… to become a queen… I need an alpha drone… and… well… you’re the only one in this hive. So…”

Putting the pieces together, Zeil gave her a surprised look, “Wait… you mean…”
Princess Mira smiled, “Yes Sir Zeil, You will become my king. And here… we can recolonize the hive.”
Zeil sat down in disbelief, “But… I…”
Seeing him speechless, Princess Mira smiled as another changeling approached, “Your majesty, Dusk is approaching and we need you to select the changeling who will lead tonight’s search.”
Princess Mira smiled, “Of course, tonight I will lead the search party myself. I was hoping to stretch my wings anyways. Go see to preparations and I will be with you shortly.”
The changeling bowed in respect as he flew away leaving the princess to turn to Zeil, “Forgive me Sir Zeil, but I must see to my duties. Perhaps we can continue this conversation at a later time. For now, go rest and recover your strength. I wait anxiously to hear of your capture in Equestria. If its anything like your brother insist it would be, then it should be a most exciting tale.”
With that Princess Mira turned and flew out of the nursery and back into the main hive as Zeil continued sitting with the speechless expression still on his face.

When the princess was gone, Sonic approach as he smiled and patted his brother on his back, “Judging by your face, she told you the big news didn’t she? Congrats bro you did it. Soon you’re going to be the new king of the changelings… or, at least this hive. Isn’t that awesome?”
Sonic smiled and waited for a reply, but Zeil couldn’t give one. He could only sit with the expression of shock still on his face as a flood of emotions filled his head. Becoming a king, leading the changelings, but all while marrying Princess Mira. As this aching thought pounded away at his head with each heartbeat, there was only one thought that seemed clear to him. He can’t accept it. Sure the Princess was beautiful, but his heart belonged to another. With this, Zeil put his hoof on his aching head as Sonic became concerned, “Brother? You okay? Still woozy from the burns you took?”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I just… I can’t be king.”
Thinking he heard him wrong, Sonic asked, “What was that? I didn’t catch what you said.”
Zeil looked his brother in the eye as he replied, “I said I can’t b-”

Before he could finish, the light peering through the small hole in the ceiling disappeared signaling dusk as Zeil saw this and nodded, “I have to leave… now.”
With that Zeil rushed out of the nursery and into the main hive chamber as Sonic quickly followed, “Brother? Zeil wait up!”
After reaching the main hive chamber, Zeil quickly looked around trying to find the exit as Sonic caught up and asked, “Zeil what’s going o-”
“The Exit”
Sonic gave him a curious look, “What?”
Zeil looked at Sonic, “Where is the exit? How do I get out of the hive?”
Sonic was getting worried, “Oh no, first tell me what’s going on. Your acting weird, and I’m not letting you go out into the desert if you’re too out of it to return before sunrise. So… what’s up?”
Zeil hesitated, “I… I can’t say.”
Sonic reassured him, “Zeil, you’re my brother, whatever it is you can trust me. So spill it, what’s wrong?”

Zeil didn’t know what to do, but since Sonic was the only changeling in the swarm that he felt he could trust, he could only sigh as he replied, “I… I have to get back to Equestria. I can’t stay here. I have to leave.”
Sonic thought he was joking as he laughed, “Good one, why would you want to go back to a place like that?”
Zeil sighed, “I need… I need to get back to, some…one…”
Seeing he was serious, Sonic’s expression became worried, “Wait… your serious aren’t you?”
“I am…”
Sonic became nervous, “What?... what are you talking about?”
Zeil explained, “After the attack, I was saved by a zebra. She saved my life and taught me all abo-”
Sonic interrupted, “Wait wait wait… SHE?... you mean to tell me that the one you need to get back to is a female zebra?”
Zeil replied, “Well… yea. Bu-”
“ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND!!!”
With Sonic’s shouting echoing through the hive, a number of changeling stopped working as they paid attention to the two as Zeil replied, “Shhh there is no need to shout.”

Sonic replied in anger, “There is perfect need to shout… What you’re saying is tantamount to treason! Why would this zebra be wort traveling all… the way… to…” he realized something as he took a step back in shock, “Wait… you’re?... no… You have feelings for this mare… don’t you?”
Zeil didn’t reply, but his expression said it all as Sonic shook his head in disappointment, “I can’t believe it… you of all changelings… you of all drones.”
Zeil replied, “I’m no better then you…”
Sonic replied in anger, “YES YOU ARE!!! You’re an alpha drone! But now look at you, you’re talking about leaving to meet up with some mare in Equestria… You’re talking about abandoning your own kind for some striped… flank.”

Feeling she was being insulted, Zeil replied with a defending tone, “Easy…”
Sonic continued, “What are you thinking? Why would you even consider something like this?”
Zeil replied, “Because she showed me something that I would never had seen as a part of this swarm. She showed me love.”
Sonic replied with an angry tone, “We don’t feel love… we feed on it. What you think because she batted her eyes at you that you can just abandon the swarm like that? What about the princess? You’re supposed to lead the next swarm! What do you think will happen without you? Think about the hive, think about me!”
Zeil shook his head, “It doesn’t matter… not anymore.”
Sonic took a few steps back as he gave Zeil an untrusted look, “No… I guess it doesn’t… I guess there is only one thing I can do…” he sighed in disappointment before looking back at his brother and yelling in anger, “TRAITOR!!!”

Hearing the call, the changelings watching the conversation charged Zeil as they tackled him to the ground as Sonic spoke, “Throw him in the pit. Don’t bother closing the top… he can’t fly anyways.”
One of the changelings replied, “Sir, what about the princess, she already left with the night search team.”
“Then we will wait till she returns, if she is focused on the search then we will wait till she’s done before telling her about this.”
Zeil replied as he struggled to free himself, “Sonic! What are you doing?”
Sonic replied in anger, “What I have to for the good of the swarm. Maybe you should consider doing the same.”
Zeil tried to explain, “Sonic listen to me… I have to get back… you don’t understand. I-”
Sonic interrupted, “I don’t want to hear it… if you want to betray the swarm then be my guest… But I won’t be part of it or even support you. We may be brothers, but I know where my loyalty lies”

Outside on the surface, the night sky lit up the black sand desert as a magic portal appeared on top of a random dune. With the portal hissing, small number of Equestrian Royal Guards trotted out and looked around in curiosity as the lead soldier spoke, “This should be the place. Remember, we are here to find the changeling that was banished yesterday, so if you see anypony. Don’t attack them.”
Another guard spoke up, “Why are we here anyways? What makes this changeling so important?”
The same guard replied, “Yesterday he fought Prince Armor then cured him of a curse. So we are finding him to thank him and give him the option of returning to Equestria.”
The second guard spoke again, “Why should we try at all? He’s a changeling, he’s better off here where he belongs.”
A different guard replied, “You heard Twilight Sparkle, she said that this changeling was a good friend of her zebra friend. Besides, if it wasn’t for him then I would be trapped in this place. He stopped me from being pulled into the portal then sacrificed himself so we both wouldn’t get pulled in. at the very least, I owe it to help bring him back.”

The first guard replied, “And you believe that story? You were unconscious the whole time.”
The guard replied, “I’ll admit it doesn’t sound like a changeling, but that is what Prince Armor and Twilight Sparkle told me. Why would they lie?”
“A proper question… however, those ponies have always been insincere with us.”
Surprised by the unexpected voice, the royal guards braced themselves for a fight as Princess Mira and her small squad of changelings landed around them as one of the guards gave an order, “Soldiers stand down…” He looked at the princess, “We arrived here with peaceful intent, so we request that you acknowledge this and treat us with the same.”
The unamused princess replied with a threatening tone, “A respectful request, however I cannot promise that we can carry it out. You see, you and your kind have always treated my subjects with such indecencies. However in light of my own curiosity, I will restrain my soldiers long enough for you to answer the following… Why have you come to this place?”

The leading royal guard stepped forward, “We came to find a changeling.”
Princess Mira smiled sarcastically, “Then it appears you’ve found one. I am Princess Mira, Sister to Queen Chrysalis and soon to be queen of the Changelings of the Black Sands.”
Acknowledging that they were speaking with royalty, another guard spoke up as he bowed, “Your majesty, the changeling we seek called himself Zine. He took the form of a zebra and befriended a friend of Twilight Sparkle.”
The lead guard continued, “He saved one of our own, and helped cure Prince Armor of a curse.”
Princess Mira gave the royal guards an intrigued expression, “Is that so?... A friend of a friend of Twilight Sparkle… And you say his name was Zine?”
The lead guard nodded as he replied, “Yes… Your majesty.”
Princess Mira looked at one of her changelings as she replied, “The changeling Zine… do you know of him?”
The changeling shook his head, “No your majesty, the name is unfamiliar to me.”
She turned to another of her changelings, “And you? Do you recall a Zine in our swarm?”
The Changeling shook his head, “Not at all your majesty.”

Princess Mira looked back at the royal guards as she spoke, “It would appear that this Zine of which you speak, is unknown amongst my hive. Meaning one of two things; either his name is false to protect himself from the likes of you, which is the most likely scenario. Or, upon his arrival, he wasn’t discovered by my search teams and perished amongst the morning sun.”
The lead royal guard was confused, “Perished?... What do you mean?”
Princess Mira picked up a hoof full of sand as she held it up, “This sand… isn’t black through natural causes… most of it, is burned and charred from the heat of the daylight sun. For reasons unknown, the sun here is almost three times as intense as everywhere else in the world. Meaning the ultraviolet rays will heat the air almost instantly while burning what it touches. The sun’s rays are also magnified by the black sand around us which absorbs the heat at a near impossible feat. Three seconds in the sun is enough to get serious burns, ten seconds is enough to cook your flesh. After thirty second, you’d be lucky to be alive, whilst no creature can survive one minute in the sun, nor can a body last a full day without being reduced to ash.”

Confused the royal guards looked at one another as Princess Mira spoke with an almost angry tone, “I know not the cruel executioner who devised such a barbaric punishment upon my subjects… but… if execution was your intent… then banishing them here was a promising attempt.”
The lead guard didn’t know how to respond, “W-we didn’t know.”
Princess Mira replied with an unamused tone, “Of course not, and why would you? No pony has ever had concern for the wellbeing of changelings.”
The guards felt guilty as Princess Mira continued, “You have your answer… the changeling you seek is not amongst my hive… so… be-gone from this place… and never return.”
The lead guard tried to speak, “Could you at least support us in our search, we only wi-“
“Perhaps I should repeat myself, you and your quest aren’t welcomed here. You bring nothing but pain in misery to my kind while you banish us without so much as leaving us our dignity. It’s these actions that would justify your executions here and now. However for once, one of us will show humility and allow you the mercy that my subjects were denied. So I tell you once again… Leave this place, and should you return, I will show you the full intensity of the Black sand’s rays, as I watch you blister from a stake atop the highest dune. Am I Understood?”

Princess Mira and her changelings glared at the royal guards as they looked at each other for a few second before realizing they had no choice. The lead guard looked at Princess Mira and bowed, “Understood… thank you for your time your majesty.”
Princess Mira replied with a disgusted tone, “Just… go…”
The guard turned around and used his unicorn magic to create a portal as the squad of royal guards trotted into the doorway and vanished. With no intention of trusting the guards, Princess Mira continue watching until the magic portal vanished into nothing as she turned back to her soldiers and spoke, “A changeling who cured Shining Armor… any changeling who would help ponies is a traitor to our kind and will be treated as such. That goes for this, Zine… and any from this point on. Understood?”
The changelings nodded their head as the princess continued, “Good, let us continue our search, less more fall victim to the pony banishment.”
With that the changeling set out to find any more changelings that could have been banished within the last day.

A number of hours later after dawn, Princess Mira trotted through the hive’s cavern beside Sonic as she spoke, “And these were his words exactly?...”
Sonic replied with an honest and serious tone, “I would never lie your majesty, not even in his defense. I have always looked up to Zeil as my older brother… but to see him act like this… I can’t tell who he is anymore.”
Princess Mira sighed in disappointment, “I understand your pain Sonic… to hear a sibling speak against you is a feeling of which I am familiar. And though I admire your honesty, I can only assume this to be a misunderstanding.” She looked down the corridor as she continued, “I only have faint memories of Sir Zeil before my sister’s fruitless campaign. But as I recall, Sir Zeil has always shown nothing more than unimpeachable obedience and loyalty. To hear him say such things seems… too outlandish for belief.”
Sonic shrugged his shoulders, “Perhaps your majesty… but… I know what I heard, and whatever the meaning of his words… I hope you will understand that if the choice comes to it, I will remain loyal to the swarm.”
Amused by his honesty, the princess smirked as she replied, “Your words are noted, though unessisary. I will convers with Sir Zeil myself and clear up this misinterpretation at once. Once it is cleared, we can put this all behind us.”
Sonic nodded, “I hope so your majesty… but what if he’s serious?”
Princess Mira sighed in worry, “I pray that isn’t the case.”

As the two continued, it wasn’t long before they reached the lowest part of the hive where there was a deep pit without a ladder or walkway as the princess looked down see Zeil meditating in his zebra form with his hooves crossed in the pit’s center. Seeing what was unusual to them, Princess Mira and Sonic looked at each other for a brief moment before Princess Mira looked back and spoke, “Sir Zeil?”
Zeil opened his eyes as he looked up and replied, “Yes your majesty?”
Confused as to how casual his response was, Princess Mira replied, “I’ve received some rather… troubling news regarding your loyalty to the swarm. And since I would rather hear your side of the statement… I have come to ask you personally… Is it true that you intend to leave swarm?”
Zeil with no expression replied, “I do.”
Princess Mira was concerned, “May I ask why?”

Zeil smiled in a disrespectful way, “Why?... look around us? We are a swarm in hiding… and this isn’t the first time… Every changeling everywhere is doing the same thing.” He changed into his changeling form, “Look at me… There is a reason the world looks at us with disgust! For centuries we have stolen the most precious thing to… everything. And only by feeling it myself could I ever understand why they look at us like they do.”
Princess Mira thought he was stressed as she tried to calm him, “Jest rest Sir Zeil… When you’ve had time to process we can discuss this rationally.”
Princess Mira started to leave as Zeil replied in anger, “I have never been more rational in my life! Chrysalis… you… the problem isn’t that we are the way we are, the problem is the way you chose to rule the hive!”
Amazed she hear this, Princess Mira stopped and looked back, “Excuse me?”
Zeil replied with a serious tone, “You heard me… for centuries we’ve only don’t what our queen has told us. Feed on love and deceive any creature we can to do so. It’s this logic that brought us here… hiding in a cave from an angry world. What we need to do i-”

Princess Mira replied in anger, “Who are you to tell me how to rule my hive? You may be an alpha… but you are still beneath me!”
Zeil nodded, “and that’s why we will be driven to extinction.”
Taking it as a threat Princess Mira replied, “Watch your tongue! You seem to be forgetting your place.”
Zeil shook his head, “No… I remember my place… but it isn’t here in this hive… its back in Equestria.”
Starting to feel skeptic, Princess Mira replied, “Equestria?”
Zeil replied, “The mare I love… after the failed raid on Canterlot, I was taken in by a zebra who helped me. If it wasn’t for her… I'd be dead.”
Princess Mira felt relieved as she smiled, “I see now… you were saved by a zebra… and now you think you have fallen for her. I'd hate to say, but what your feeling isn’t love, it’s a need to pay a life debt.”

Zeil shook his head, “I wouldn’t think so… seeing that I already paid back that debt in full.”
Not liking his tone, Princess Mira replied, “What do you mean, paid in full?”
Zeil smiled in a sinister fashion, “you know that curse that Chrysalis gave shining armor?… I cured it.”
Princess Mira became angry as she replied as calmly as she could, “What?...”
Sonic stepped forward, “You… you betrayed u-“
Sonic was silenced as princess Mira put her hoof us to stop him, “So… You’re the zebra Zine… Aren’t you?”
Although Zeil was confused that she could know of his false identity, he didn’t want to show doubt as he changed into his zebra form and replied while looking her in the eye, “Yes… I am… I am Zine.”
As she looked into his eyes, Princess Mira felt something strange, it was a combination of many emotions, but if they could be described, they would be disappointment, fear, and rage. Trying to maintain her composer, Princess Mira replied with an angry but calm tone, “I see… so you support the ponies then do you?”

Zeil shook his head, “I’m neutral to them… I only care about Zecora. But if you’re asking about my continued loyalty with this, or any hive… its safe to say that I have none.”
The rage now overshadowed her other emotions as Princess Mira continued to hide it as her eyes panned onto his missing wing, then to his remaining discolored wing. As she looked at his unusual difference from the rest of the hive, Princess Mira spoke, “Ah… so… it would seem that the ponies found a way to corrupt one of our own. Very clever… but fire can’t always win against fire.”
With anger, Princess Mira turned to Sonic, “Captain, Sir Zeil is obviously under the influence of some sort of pony curse. Therefore I want him kept here indefinably until either the spell runs its course… or… until we find another alpha drone to take his place.”

Sonic Asked, “And… if we find a replacement drone… then what?”
Princess Mira replied with a dark tone, “If we find a replacement, then… I’m afraid I will have no choice but to dispose of a potential threat to the swarm.”
Zeil replied, “You mean kill me… right?”
Princess Mira replied sympathetically, “For the good of the hive… yes.”
That said, Princess Mira turned around and started to leave as she tried all she could to speak without showing her anger, “Captain Sonic… I leave him in your hooves. Prove your loyalty to the swarm.”
Sonic bowed and replied as Princess Mira left the cavern, “No problem your majesty, leave him to me.”
As soon as Princess Mira was gone, Zeil spoke, “Well, that went well.”

Sonic looked at his brother in disbelief, “What is your problem? Threatening the princess?... What’s gotten into you?”
Zeil replied, “You can take my word for it… or follow the princess’s excuse that the ponies put a curse on me… I don’t care.”
Zeil turned to the center of the pit as Sonic became annoyed, “I can’t believe you… why would you do this? She’s giving you control of the swarm on a silver platter! And your taking that plate and tossing it back at her. You’re an alpha drone! This is what you’re supposed to be bread for!”
Zeil replied, “I didn’t choose to be an alpha!… no more then I chose to be a king!”
Sonic shook his head, “You… you’re… just selfish.” Zeil looked at his brother as Sonic continued, “You have everything… EVERYTHING!!! And you’re giving it all up!... You know, I’ve envied you since we were hatchlings… the day we hatched, Queen Chrysalis trotted up to us and smiled… but it wasn’t us she was smiling at. It was you... you were an alpha drone. She knew that if the swarm had a future, it was you that would lead it. Every day hundreds of us are born, but out of every thousand, there is only one of you. Cuz of this, the queens treat you like you’re already kings. You’re the favorite when trained, you’re the first selected for important tasks and recognition… they even remember your names. We workers… we wish for the chance to be treated like you for a single day. But you… You just toss it aside like it’s nothing special. You’re not a drone… your just a selfish traitor.”

Seeing the anger in his brother’s expression Zeil replied, “Sonic… She used us… she treated us like we were special but in actuality she knew that we were the only ones who could stand up to her. But even then, I didn’t want special treatment. I didn’t want to be king, or lead a hive, or any of that. I just wanted to enjoy my life with my brother beside me.”
Sonic sighed in hopelessness as he replied, “I’m not a grub anymore… you don’t have to lie to me to make me feel better. I know I was nothing more than your pity party. Well I don’t need your sympathy… but I would like it better if you actually accepted the treatment they gave you for once. Instead of throwing it away like an ungrateful-… Never mind. You want to sit in this hole like it’s your high horse, then be my guest. I’m done with you.”

Thinking he lost, Zeil sighed, “I guess so… well… then I'll see you around.”
With that Zeil sat down with an intent of going back to his meditation as Sonic spoke one last time, “Can you answer me one thing before I go?”
Zeil nodded as Sonic asked, “This zebra… is she really worth it? Are you sure that it’s love that you felt?”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “She is… and yes, I am.”
Sonic smiled, “Hmm…Must feel good… You know… that if you forget this whole thing and say you will stay, the princess will forgive and forget all of this, right?”
Zeil sighed, “I’m not looking for forgiveness, nor do I intend on telling the princess what she wants to hear. If I get out of this, I won’t have any shame in how I do it. Lying to run away is a coward’s tactic. And I won’t do it anymore.”

Sonic shook his head as she sighed in irritation, “What happened to you?”
Zeil smiled in a motivational way, “I’m only following the wise advice that was told to me the night before I left Equestria.”
Sonic was curious, “Really? What advice is that?”
Zeil replied, “I need to show the princess who I am… not what I am.”
Sonic sighed as he turned and left the room, “Well who you are, is gonna get you killed… think about that. Sir Zeil.”
As Sonic left the cavern Zeil replied, “That doesn’t matter, I must do what I can to get back to Zecora.” He sat down in a meditative position as he mumbled, “Alright Rafi… what now… how do I get out of this.”

Bk3/Ch4 Friend or Foe

Book 3/Chapter 4
Friend or Foe

Year 00, Month 11, Day 07

The air couldn’t have been thinner or more depressing as the five remaining climbers continued up the cliff with harnesses connecting each one to a single line. With Hotham Leading the climb, he could only look back as he called, “Ya’ll okay down there?”
Slowly climbing behind him they each replied in order, Angel first, “Yea, I’m good.”
Everest next, “I’m fine with picking up the pace a little.”
Kiloman next, “How far is the next ledge?”
Hotham looked up from his position as he saw it and replied, “About another hundred feet or so. How you holding up Zeil? Not bad for your first time eh?”
Zeil nodded as he continued climbing, “I’m alright, keeping up as best as I can. After you try it yourself, it’s not as hard as it looks, though… that doesn’t make me any less nervous.”
Hotham smiled, “too right mate, just keep at it and we will be there in no time at all. Just… hang in there.
The group rolled their eyes as Everest spoke, “that was about as funny as the last three times you told it.”
Hotham replied, “Easy mate… just trying to lighten up the mood a bit.”

With that the group continued using the picks to climb up the steep cliff before arriving at the next ledge as they each climbed up then helped the rest onto the platform. After reaching the ledge the group sat down as Hotham went to work unhooking himself from their safety lines. As he put away the rope, Angel spoke, “Looks like we are making great time today. At this rate we may reach the summit early tomorrow.”
Hotham nodded, “If the weather stays fair, yes… but look there.”
The group looked off the cliff into the distance as they noticed storm clouds approaching in the distance. As they watched the impending snow storm, Zeil sighed, “Why can’t things just be simple for once?”
Angel replied, “That would make things too easy.”

Everest nodded as he added to the statement, “Even I want things to be easy from time, but… if I were to be honest, this mountain will prove helpful for my dream. Though… if the challenge means losing friends… then…”
Everypony’s expression became sad, as Hotham spoke up, “I think this break is over, let’s get ready to continue on our path. Looks like the trail is a simple slope so we can continue without climbing. Le-”
Before finishing his sentence, Hotham paused as he griped his head and grunted in annoyance. Seeing this Kiloman asked, “You alright friend?”
Hotham nodded, “I’m fine, just a headache. Nothing too severe. So… let’s keep going.”
As the group stood up and started back on their trail Zeil asked, “So Everest, do many ponies from your home town dream of climbing the Titan’s Citadel?”
Everest nodded, “I would think so… though…”
Zeil was confused with his uneasy expression, “Though?”
Everest sighed, “I wasn’t… very social in my home town. In fact… I didn’t have any friends there.”

Zeil was concerned, “Really? You seem like a friendly pony to me.”
Everest nodded, “I was… but… when they found out I was… you know, the way I am. They turned their back to me. You see, homosexuality still isn’t accepted everywhere yet. In some places it’s still taboo so…”
Zeil sighed, “Oh… I’m… I’m sorry. I knew that it wasn’t common, but to see that some are out casted for their feelings is, just cruel.”
Hotham nodded, “not much different from you’re kind.”
Zeil nodded, “true, but my kind are out casted for their actions that have harmed others. Ponies like Everest haven’t done anything to hurt anypony.”
Everest nodded as he replied, “it’s alright Zeil. Despite how unfair it is, there are some things in this world that we should just ignore.”
Zeil shook his head, “But there are others that should be pushed to change.”
Everest smiled, “Its fine, they may never accept me… but that won’t stop me. If they don’t like me then it will just hurt more when I become the first to reach the Titan’s Citadel.”
Kiloman smiled, “That’s the spirit friend, never give up on your dream.”

Hotham spoke as he looked ahead on the trail, “Bad news mates… look there.”
As they continued up the trail they found themselves stuck as the path ahead seemed to end at a long deep gorge. As the five looked into the deep crack in the earth, Hotham kicked a pebble into the dark void below as he heard the pebble bounce off the walls as he spoke, “Crikey… Seems to go on forever don’t it?”
Everest nodded, “it does… do we have anything to cross it with?”
Angel looked down the gorge, at one end, the gorge ended at the same cliff that they just finished climbing, and on the other side, there was a tall wall that stretched even higher onto the mountain, but was also parted by the deep crevice in front of them. Seeing the wall Angel spoke, “We can place an anchor on that wall and try making a single rope bridge to cross.”
Hotham gave her a concerned look as she backed up and removed her saddlebag, “A single rope would work, but we would need an anchor on both sides of the gorge… how wou-”
Before he could finish, Angel pulled a climbing pick from her saddlebag as she darted across the area strait towards the gorge before jumping into the air and opening her wings to glide to the other end.

Worried for her safety, Hotham watched as Angel reached the other side and buried the tip of her pick into the wall three feet below the top of the opposite side. Seeing the mare he cared for hanging from the cliff, Hotham called, “Angel! Are you alright?”
Angel started scaling the other side of the gorge as she replied, “I’m good! Your sweet, but you don’t need to worry about me!”
After Angel reached the cliff, she pulled herself onto level ground as Hotham called in irritation, “Don’t do that again! Or at least give me fair warnin’ first! You nearly gave me a heart attack.”
Angel smiled at his concern, “Oh calm down and throw me an anchor already!”
With that, Kiloman reached into her saddlebag as he pulled out an anchor and rope and tossed the anchor to the other side of the gorge. As Angel caught the anchor, she went to the wall on her side and hammered it into the stone as Everest did the same on his side before running a rope through and tossing the other end of the line to Angel on the opposite side.

Once both sides were set, Angel called as she tugged the rope to test its strength, “Alright we are ready on this end! Who’s first?”
Everest replied, “I am, I need to test the rope’s strength. If I can make it, the rest should since I am the heaviest of the group.”
Kiloman nodded, “Then go on… we’re right behind you friend.”
With that, Everest approached the anchor as he used the tight rope to lift himself up so that he could clip the harness on his chest to the rope. Once the harness was clipped, he released the rope to test its strength as the rope succeeded in suspending the large pony in the air over the ground. Seeing that it was strong enough to hold him, Everest preceded to horizontally climb the rope as doing so pulled him over the gorge and to the other side safely.
As soon as Everest made it to the other end, he waited till he was suspended over the ground before pulling himself slightly higher and unclipping his harness as he now was able to drop himself and land safely on the opposite side of the deep crevice in the earth. Now that Everest was across he called to the rest of the group, “Its safe! So who’s next?”
Hotham stepped forward as he replied, “no time like the present.”
With that Hotham took Angel’s saddlebag with him as he approached the anchor and mimicked Everest actions by lifting himself up, clipping the harness on his chest to the rope, then preceding to pull himself across with ease. As soon as Hotham reached the other end, he unclipped himself then handed Angel her saddlebag as the mare looked over and narrowed her eyes on Kiloman, “Kiloman, your next!”

When Angel said that, Zeil immediately recognized her tone as he paused. Something about it seemed familiar, not like it was a suggestion, but more like it was an order. In fact, he remembered that it was the exact tone she used with Pike the day before when she told him to climb up the rope right before his accident. Kiloman didn’t catch the tone, so he only nodded as he replied, “Sure thing friend.”
As Kiloman approached the rope and lifted himself up, Zeil immediately saw something as he spoke, “Kiloman wait!”
Pausing, Kiloman looked at Zeil as Angel’s expression across the gorge became annoyed. As Zeil approached Kiloman he looked closely at the harness as he saw something was out of place, “Look at the loop on your clip, isn’t that a crack in the metal?”
Kiloman looked down and saw that he was right. The harness on his chest was connected around both over and under his front hooves with a small clipping loop on the chest, but the loop on Kiloman’s chest had a small fracture right next to the lock. Meaning if Kiloman had tried to cross the gorge, it was likely the clip would have broken open and he would have fallen.

As soon as he saw the damage he spoke, “Oh… good catch… I need to replace this immediately.”
With that Kiloman took off his saddlebag and sat it down as he started searching through it to find the harness that Pike had worn the day before. As Kiloman searched his bag, he looked across the gorge at Angel who was still wearing her annoyed expression as Zeil started feeling suspicious. Did she know the clip was broken, and if so, why didn’t she tell anypony? And to make it worse, does that mean she knew the incident that took Pike’s life would happen before it killed him? With these thought in his head, Zeil started to feel a deep distrust in Angel as Kiloman finished replacing his clip before speaking, “We are fine now, Let us continue.”
Not knowing what was going on, Hotham called, “Is everything alright mate?”
Kiloman called back, “Its fine, Thanks to Zeil we managed to avoid a second disaster. I’m on the way now.”
With that Kiloman lifted himself in the air and clipped his new undamaged clip to the rope before preceding to cross the gorge.

Although Zeil felt the crisis was avoided, he still preceded to watch Kiloman’s actions closely as the confident earthpony glided across the gorge safely before reaching the other side. Once Kiloman was across, he unclipped himself as Hotham spoke “Alright Zeil your next, you know how to do it right?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “I got it, thanks.”
Next Zeil lifted himself into the air and clipped himself to the rope just as the other climbers did before him. Then with his clip secured and locked, Zeil slowly started pulling himself out as he immediately felt the worry when he noticed he was now dangling over the seemingly bottomless gorge. Worried as he was, he still trusted his equipment enough to continue moving steadily across as he breathed a sigh of relief when he met the other side. As the released changeling unclipped himself and landed on stable ground, Hotham approached him and smiled, “Hey Zeil… Kiloman just filled us in on what you saw. Cheers for that mate. It’s a relive you caught it when ya did, any later and we would have lost another friend.”

Smiling Zeil replied, “Not a problem, I just wanted to make sure… we all make it to the summit.”
With that said, Zeil looked at angel as the mare gave him a distrusting look. Luckily no pony saw her stare as Hotham smiled, “Well good on ya. Thanks to this catch we can be sure to double check our equipment. For now let’s keep moving, but be sure to keep a lookout for other faults. I think bad equipment would be a poor way to go out here.”
With that the group started continuing on the path as Zeil trotted close to Angel as he whispered so the others wouldn’t hear, “What was that? Did you know Kiloman’s clip was damaged?”
Angel gave him an unconcerned expression as she replied, “I don’t know what you’re talking about… but mark my words… don’t interfere any further.”

Zeil had never felt so confused, Angel had always seemed as if she had a big sister complex with the entire group, but now with both her tone, her words and the way she seemed to bait both Pike and Kiloman, Zeil couldn’t tell if she was a friend, or a foe. Zeil could only feel worried on how to precede with his new found distrust for the mare. Part of him was saying to call her out and announce her suspicious activity. But with her long term relationship with Hotham and his lack of evidence against her, he could only assume the group wouldn’t believe him and begin to distrust him instead. So, until he could find solid evidence that she couldn’t be trusted, Zeil could only keep silent as the group continued on their path up the mountain.

Later as the group continued, the snowstorm that was seen was now crossing over them as the snow began falling onto the five climbers as Hotham tried to see through the storm and spoke, “It’s no use… with this flurry making things hard to see we are likely to go traipsing off the next cliff. We need to set up camp, Everest, Kiloman, Zeil, You three set up a tent for the three of you, Angel and I will be in another. With this blizzard around us we can’t risk staying alone. It’s too cold and a waste of fuel for the heaters.”
The group nodded as they found good places to set up their tents before fighting the wind to get them up. Once their tents were up the group wasted no time in getting settled inside the tent to keep warm from the cold wind that was howling outside. With the wind howling, and Angel in the other tent with Hotham, Zeil felt it safe to ask, “Hey can I ask you guys a question? How well do you know Angel?”

Confused with the unexpected question, Everest replied first, “Well, I was the first of us to meet her. It was about a year ago in fact. Hotham and Angel met me on the summit of Mount Gaulish in the Highlands with a few Shetland ponies climbing with them. On the travel back to the lodge, Hotham offered me the chance to travel to the next mountain with him. Since I was seeking mountains to train for the Titan’s Citadel, I thought it would be a good opportunity so I decided to go with them. That and they didn’t mind that I was… well you know.”
Zeil was confused, “so… Angel didn’t argue when you chose to go with them?”
Everest shook his head, “No, in fact she didn’t really have much to say on the matter… or… now that I think about it… I don’t recall her saying anything back then. Strange… I remember her there as plain as day… but… I don’t remember her saying anything, or… even introducing herself… maybe… Hotham did it? But… I can’t recall.”

Zeil was now more skeptic than ever, “So… you don’t remember her saying anything? Was she even there?”
Everest nodded, “She was… but for some reason… I don’t remember her saying anything.”
Kiloman replied, “That’s funny, I don’t recall her saying anything when I first met her too. It was actually Hotham that introduced us. We met near six months ago on a ship between Zebrica and the Hooviet Union.”
Zeil was confused, “So… you met her but… you don’t recall her speaking?”
Both Kiloman and Everest tried to think to themselves as they looked at each other and nodded as Kiloman replied, “I remember plenty of long conversations where we enjoyed each other’s company… but no matter how hard I try, I cannot recall a single word said. It’s like… faint memories of dreams.”
Zeil thought to himself as he replied, “Strange…”

Everest spoke next, “you look as if that means something… what’s on your mind Zeil?”
Zeil shook his head, “I can’t say for sure… but something about Angel and the way she acts seems… untrustworthy.”
Kiloman replied, “When one is hated by another, one usually tries to find either reason, reconciliation, or possibly, retaliation.”
Zeil shook his head, “it’s not that, trust me. If I held spite towards all who hated me then hatred would devour and consume me. It’s just… for some reason, I’m starting to feel like, Angel is somehow dangerous to be around.”
Everest replied, “Perhaps… it’s her distrust in you that is spurring this.”
After hearing this, Zeil could tell that his friends were starting to feel unsure about him so thinking it would be best to wait before accusing Angel of being bad, Zeil replied, “I don’t know… maybe it’s just the stress of the cold, Altitude, and losing Pike. Changelings don’t have many friends, and with all the hostility towards us, it’s hard trusting anypony who treats us with disgust.”

Kiloman replied, “Perhaps rest is all you need. We did do a lot of climbing today and the thin air will wear you out much faster than if we were at sea level.”
At that moment Hotham entered the tent then spoke, “Hey mates, how ya fairing over here?”
The three replied in order, first Kiloman, then Everest, then Zeil, “Bored.” “Tired.” “Cold.”
Hotham smiled, “Well I got some bad news mates. Looks like this storm won’t be letting up on us any time soon. I think we may have to rack out for now, but if it hasn’t let up by mornin’ we’ll have to continue through it.”
Zeil was concerned, “Can we? You said traveling through a blizzard can be dangerous.”
Hotham nodded, “I did, but running out of fuel for our burners will be worse. After cutting yesterday and today short, we burned more fuel then expected, so now… we may be low. We can’t say for sure how fare we are from the summit, and then there is the trip from the summit to the next inn. We don’t know if we have the supplies for the rest of the trip.”

Everest added, “We have the supplies to venture through a storm. But running out of other vital supplies would be fare worse.”
Zeil nodded, “Alright… if you say we’ll be fine, then I trust you.”
Hotham nodded, “then you blokes get some rest and we’ll see you in the mornin’.”
As Hotham started to leave, Zeil wanted to stop him and warn him about getting too close to Angel, but in fear of pushing another friend away, he decided to just keep quiet until he had more proof that she couldn’t be trusted. With that Hotham Left and went back to his tent as Zeil, Kiloman, and Everest pulled out their sleeping bags and went to sleep.

That night, Zeil saw another vision as he watched a mare fall from about ten feet before hitting the ground at the bottom of a deep cylindrical pit. After hitting the ground, the mare struggled to roll herself over as she took off her goggles to reveal her neon white face as blood rolled down from a cut she had gotten when she hit the ground. After that, the exhausted mare stood up and looked around her as she tried to speak through her shivering, “I… I have to keep going… the summit… is right up there… I have to get up there… I have to pro-”
Cutting her sentence short the mare started coughing into her mitten as her terrible cough caused her to lean against the wall of the hole as she took a few second to cough it out. After coughing for a few seconds, the mare stopped as she looked into her light grey mitt only to see it stained with blood. Knowing she couldn’t stop yet, the mare pulled a pair of climbing picks out of her Saddlebag as she used all the strength she had to embed one into the frozen wall of the pit.

One by one, the mare buried the tip of her picks into the wall and used them to climb up the wall of the pit, however as she climbed, her lungs started going back into a coughing fit as she tried all she could to hold onto her picks during the whole spasm. Unfortunately as she did, one pick slipped free of the wall as the combination of her coughing storm and gravity caused her to release the other as the mare fell from three quarters of the way up before hitting the ground back in the center of the pit, only this time after hitting the ground, the mare found that she had lost all strength she had left as the mare did the only thing she felt she could do. The mare huddled up in the fetal position and tried all she could to keep herself warm. Then with the assumption that all was lost for the poor soul, the vision faded as Zeil woke to find that it was now morning.

As Zeil sat up he felt a strange feeling run down his face, as he rubbed his eyes to find out that for some reason he was crying. Feeling confused, Zeil wiped away his tears as Hotham entered the tent and spoke, “Glad you’re up mate, everypony is out here for a little brekky so com- wait… you alright mate?”
Zeil finished wiping away his tears as he replied, “I’m fine, just… my eyes are a little sore this morning.”
Hotham nodded, “Alright, well on that note, be sure to wear your shaded goggles. We don’t need you to get snow blinded out here. The snows let up a bit but it’s still hard to see, so when we move out we will need to pace ourselves.”
Nodding in agreement, the two exited the tent and joined the rest of the crew for breakfast.

A few hours later, the group with their full cold weather gear and the wind in their face, pushed through the narrow side trail with steep hills on both sides, one leading down towards the trail on the right side that was too steep to go up, and another leading away from the trail on the left that if traveled would lead off a nearby cliff. Zeil noticed angel as she looked to the front of the group where Hotham was trotting, looked up the steep hill, then looked back as if she were waiting for something. Not trusting her behavior, Zeil continued watching her until she all of a sudden stopped trotting all together. Seeing this, Zeil paused as he spoke, “Angel… what is it?”
Although the thick jacket, scarf and goggles covered her face almost entirely, Zeil could see a hint of an indecisive look on her fact as the rest of the group heard him and stopped to look at Angel. Worried Hotham spoke, “Angel? What’s wrong? Are you alright?”
Angel started looking away as if she was trying to make a difficult decision, “I… um… well…”
As everypony’s attention was on Angel, Zeil started to feel suspicious, as he had the sudden instinct to look up the mountain where Angel was looking before and try to see through the white haze that the falling snow was making.

As he tried to see what she was looking for, Zeil started to notice a hint of a dark object heading their way. Trying to identify the object Zeil watched closely until he realized what it was as he quickly looked at the group and started to call, “HO…”
“LOOK OUT!!!”
Not expecting Angel’s warning, Zeil looked at Angel as she quickly pulled Hotham out of a rolling boulders path. As the boulder crashed onto the ground they were standing on, missing hotham by only a foot, the frozen Cliff started to crack as everypony quickly backed away as the crumbling trail started to shift with the steep hills around it. With the crumbling ground spreading, Everest started to feel the earth beneath his hooves starting to follow the rest as he quickly turned around to sprint to safety, however as he did the ground in front of him also started to crumble as he jumped for the nearest cliff only to have Angel catch his hoof. After catching his hoof Angel tried to pull him to safety however with Everest’s size being too much for the frail mare to handle, she was quickly pulled from the trail as she and Everest started sliding down the steep slope towards the cliff. Quickly reacting, Hotham rushed to the edge of the trail and caught her by her hind hooves. As Hotham also started to fall, Zeil quickly used his right front hoof to grab Hotham by his hind hoof as used his other to grab Kiloman’s hoof as Kiloman also pulled out a climbing pick and buried the blade into the ground as he used it as an anchor to save himself and the rest of his group who were now interlinked into a pony chain.

After Kiloman buried his pick into stable ground, the chain of ponies found themselves hanging from the steep slope with Everest and Angel at the bottom actually suspended from the cliff’s edge, Hotham on the edge of the steep slope, Zeil further up the slope, and Kiloman anchored on what remained of the trail. Hanging but able to hold themselves steady, Hotham called to Angel as he spoke, “Angel!... You alright? How’s your grip on Everest?”
Struggling through her words, Angel replied, “I… I can’t hold him… he’s too heavy…”
Hotham looked around as he replied, “Just hold tight… Who’s at the top? Kiloman is that you? How ya fairing mate?”
Kiloman struggled through his words too as he replied, “I could be more fortunate… I… I think I can pull you up… but… it won’t be fast.”
Hotham asked, “Hey Zeil… you wouldn’t happen to have a strong creature form for you to change into would ya? Somthin’ that could pull us up quickly?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Well… I do… but if I change it will force me to let go of you so… I’m not going to do that.”
Hotham Sighed, “Well it was worth askin’.”

As the rest of the group tried to decide a way out of this situation, Everest started to remember a few things as he looked at Angel and whispered, “Angel… my memories… they are back… and… you… are you a-”
Angel shushed him before replying, “Yes… what you remember now… is the truth.”
Everest’s expression became saddened as he replied, “I… I see… I… I won’t ever reach the Titan’s Citadel… will I?”
Angel shook her head as tears started to build in her eyes, “… No… you won’t.”
Everest sighed in disappointment as he asked, “Will… will it hurt?”
Angel shook her head, “I won’t let it…”
Everest smiled peacefully, “Thank you Angel… I’m happy to have such a merciful friend.”
Angel shook her head, “No… you don’t deserve a friend like me… are you ready?”
Everest nodded, “I am…”
With that Everest closed his eyes as Angel released one of his hooves and placed her hoof against Everest’s forehead.

At that moment, Zeil felt something that caused him to almost forget the danger they were in. With his changeling senses feeling the aura of the entire group, something strange happened. Everest’s aura had all of a sudden vanished. Worried Zeil looked down while expecting to see that Angel had dropped him but what he saw only confused him even more. Angel was still holding him below, but his body was completely limp. Worried Zeil called, “Everest! Are you okay!”
Before the large earthpony had the chance to respond Angel with only one hoof holding him called, “I… I can’t hold him anymore! I-” His hoof slipped free of hers, “NO!!!”
With that, Everest’s lifeless body fell from the cliff into the white haze below as Angel called, “NO EVEREST!!!”
The rest of the group looked in shock as Everest vanished into the endless white that the snowstorm was creating below. The rest of the group called “EVEREST!!!” but with no view of him beneath the haze, it proved useless as they all watched in worry knowing full and well, that it was already over.

With Everest’s weight now off the rest of the group, it was much easier for Kiloman and Zeil to pull the chain of climbers up onto the trail as they each made it back to stable ground. Knowing that Angel had something to do with it, Zeil glared at the mare as he started trotting to her just as she pulled herself back onto the ground. However before he could confront her with all his built up rage, Zeil paused when she removed her goggles showing her tear soaked face as she buried her muzzle into Hotham’s chest as she cried, “Everest!... I… I couldn’t save him… I… I wasn’t strong enough… I tried, I really did but… but… it’s all my fault… I’m the reason he is dead… I wasn’t strong enough to… to… I…”
Hotham breathed deeply in exhaustion as he held her close and tried to comfort her, “I know ya did… but… it’s not your fault… it just happened… it couldn’t have been helped. And the world knows we tried.”

Zeil stood clueless, he was sure that Angel was souly responsible for this, and that she had simply dropped him without even trying to hold on. But with her tears falling and her expression apparent, he knew that her feelings shown were genuine, despite her continued ability to hid her emotions from his changeling senses. This… meant that she truly felt sad, guilt, and apologetic for what happened making it hard for Zeil to tell if she was truly responsible or not. Though he still wanted to say something on the subject, Zeil could only keep silent as Kiloman approached her and Hotham as he spoke, “Angel don’t be so hard on yourself. This wasn’t something that could have been predicted nor prevented. Everest may have lost his life along with Pike… but only when we choose to give up, have their death truly been in vein.”

As Zeil thought about his words, Hotham looked at his remaining friends as he held Angel close and spoke, “We’ve lost two friends now… but… that won’t stop me. I say we press on… We may have survived but… it was too close to call it luck. The summit is close… and… I can’t say I guarantee we will make it there then to the opposite side… but… I aim to at least make the peak. So… are you blokes still with me?”
Kiloman gave him an unconvinced look, but nodded as he looked at Zeil for his answer to the question. Seeing Kiloman’s answer, Zeil nodded, “Always…”
Hotham looked down at Angel who was still holding him close as he asked, “And you Angel? Will you finish this climb with me?”
Angel looked up at him then wiped away her tears as she nodded, “I will… but… if it becomes too dangerous… just turn back… I… I don’t want to lose you too.”

Hotham smiled as he looked back at the group and nodded, “I don’t plan on falling any time soon. We will make it to the summit together. Ain’t that right mates?”
Kiloman smiled as he nodded in agreement, and although Zeil nodded too, he couldn’t bring himself to smile since he still didn’t trust Angel. Although Hotham saw that he wasn’t smiling in agreement, he overlooked it since they did lose another friend as he looked to the damaged trail and spoke, “Well… the trail is damaged… but it’s still passable. So let’s continue.”
As he said that, Hotham Angel and Zeil started following as Kiloman stood on the edge of the steep slope as he looked into the haze below. Realizing their friend wasn’t following Hotham paused as he turned to Kiloman and spoke, “Kiloman? What’s up?”
Kiloman continued looking into the haze as Zeil approached him and spoke, “Kiloman?”

Kiloman smiled as he shook his head, “Everest… He won’t get to complete his dream now… Pike won’t see his family again…”
Zeil nodded, “I know… but if anything… we can finish this climb for them.”
Kiloman gave him a serious look, “Can we?...”
Realizing the hidden message in his expression, Zeil gave him a surprised look as Hotham spoke through his deep breathing, “C’mon mates… time is wastin’ and the snow is getting… thicker.”
Before Kiloman could reply, Zeil asked, “Hotham… are you alright? You’re breathing pretty deeply there.”
Hotham nodded as he spoke through his breathing, “I’m fine mate… just… a little winded.”
Kiloman shook his head, “No you’re not friend… You’re suffering from altitude sickness… its faint… but it’s there.”

Hotham smiled as he replied with a convincing tone, as he patted him on the shoulder “Come now mate… you know I’m… I’m fine… nothing a slower pace won’t cure. But the summit is close… and… I aim to reach it before dusk… so… are ya coming or not?”
Kiloman nodded as he replied, “For your health… I will.”
Smiling at the answer Hotham turned back to the trail and continued forward alongside Angel as Zeil and Kiloman followed closely behind. As the group pressed on, the steep slopes that traveled upwards along the side of the trail ended as the area ahead revealed only a smooth slope upwards. Looking around Hotham smiled and spoke through his breathing, “There… ya see… No cliffs in the distance… this means that the Summit is at the tip of this slope.”
Angel nodded, “Then we should slow our pace… You need to rest.”
Hotham shook his head, “Cheers for your concern, but I can rest at the summit. C’mon mates lets finish this.”

As Hotham started forward with Angel trotting by his side, however as Zeil and Kiloman started to follow, Zeil had a sudden flashback of the area as he recognized the surroundings from the visions he has had the past few nights. Knowing the risk, Zeil tried to step forward as he spoke, “Hotham! Watch your step. There is ice hid-”
Before he could finish his warning, Zeil noticed Angel giving him an angry look out the corner of his eye, but before anything else could be said, the hidden ice beneath Zeil’s hooves started cracking rapidly as the thin ice shattered under his weight as Zeil started to fall. Seeing the danger in time, Kiloman reach out, “ZEIL!!!”
Before he could fall too far, Kiloman was able to grab one of his front hooves as Zeil’s fall was suddenly stopped before his swinging slammed him against the wall of the deep pit. When he hit the wall of the pit, Kiloman’s hoof was slammed against a sharp shard of ice as the spike like ice cut deep into his arm as the earth pony cringed in pain.

As soon as Zeil realized he was saved, also started feeling blood rolling down his hoof as he looked at his savior and spoke, “Kiloman, your hurt.”
Kiloman replied, “Just a scratch friend…”
At that moment Hotham turned to the two as he called, “Zeil! Kiloman!”
Before he could step forward, Angel saw more ice on the ground cracking as she stopped him from running to the group, “Hotham wait! The ice!”
As Angel stopped him, Zeil started to see condensation starting to appear on the pit wall he was against as it slowly ran down creating a U shape around the ground Kiloman was standing on. Seeing this, Zeil knew what was about to happen as he looked up at Kiloman and spoke, “Kiloman… let me go…”
Kiloman shook his head, “I lost one friend today and two on this trip… I’m not losing another.”
Zeil replied, “You need to let me go… if you don’t y-”

At that moment, the ground that Kiloman was standing on shifted beneath his hooves as it quickly crumbled away as both Zeil and Kiloman fell into the pit. When both friends disappeared from his sight Hotham called, “ZEIL!!! KILOMAN!!!”
As Zeil and Kiloman fell into the pit, Zeil hit a few protruding stones on the sides of the pit before hitting the bottom twelve feet from where they fell. Although the ground Zeil hit was flat, Kiloman landed on the same stones that fell with them as he landed on his back grunting in pain. Trying not to succumb to the same fate, Hotham and Angel carefully made their way to the pit that their friend fell into as Hotham called, “Zeil! Kiloman!”
Zeil Picked himself up and rubbed his head as he called, “It’s okay Hotham! I’m fine an-” he looked at his closest companion, “Kiloman, you alright.”

Kiloman was breathing deeply in pain as he tried to disguise it in his response as he called to Hotham, “I… I’m fine too!... J-just a little beaten and bruised!”
Seeing him hide his pain, Zeil gave Kiloman a concerned look as Hotham replied, “You blokes need help?”
Zeil looked at the condensation building up around the walls of the pit as he looked around and tried to find another way, then as he saw that the pit they fell into actually led into a small cave Zeil called back, “Better not! The ground there is too weak. There is a cave down her that looks like it leads out somewhere. Just continue on and we will meet you at the summit!”
Hotham was concerned, “Are ya sure?”

Kiloman replied this time, “We got this!... just… go ahead and we will see you at the Summit!”
Zeil could still see Kiloman hiding his pain as Hotham replied, “Right then! I'll meet you blokes there. You two be careful!”
Before Hotham could leave Kiloman called, “Hey Angel!!!”
Angel looked down into the pit, “Yea? What is it?”
Kiloman replied, “Watch over Hotham!”
Angel nodded in agreement as both she and Hotham looked back onto their path as carefully started towards the summit. With the snowstorm picking up around them.

As the two left, Zeil stumbled through his soreness towards Kiloman as he saw the deep cut on his arm and spoke while pulling a rope from his saddlebag, “Kiloman… we need to stop the bleeding… I think the ice cut into an artery.”
Zeil started using the rope and a tent stake to make a tourniquet for Kiloman as the pain riddled Stallion replied, “I know… but… that’s not my concern.”
As Zeil tightened the tourniquet he asked, “What?... what are you talking about?”
Kiloman replied, “My friend… I can’t feel my hind hooves.”
Zeil felt as if his heart skipped a beat, “Wh-what?”
Kiloman repeated, “My hind hooves… I… I can’t feel them… I can’t… move them. I think… I think I’m…”
Zeil looked at his lifeless lower half as he realized how he landed as he replied, “Your spine… you landed on it and… I think you broke your back.”

Kiloman asked, “You… you wouldn’t have anything in your saddle bag to fix this… would you?”
Zeil shook his head, “no… I don’t. But… you’ll be fine… I'll get you out of here and we can fix this when we get to the inn on the other side of the mountain.”
Zeil took the numbing paste out of his bag before applying it to Kiloman’s forehead. Then he looked around to see a broken supply sled left behind as if it had fallen in and was never recovered. Acting quickly Zeil rushed to the sled as he removed the cargo and pulled it to Kiloman as he spoke, “Here, This should help… we’ll get you back on the trail and meet Hotham at the summit. This should be a piece of cake.”
Then he preceded to pick up the weak earth pony and moved him onto the sled as Kiloman chuckled, “Pike was right… you’re not the type to give it straight are you… that’s fine though… that’s why Hotham trusts you… why… we all trust you.”
As Zeil connected himself to the sled and started pulling Kiloman through the cave, he made his way down the tunnel as he replied, “Yea… but… Angel didn’t… and… I don’t trust her either… in fact… I think she is responsible for this somehow.”
Kiloman smiled as he replied, “Perhaps… but… if it’s any consolation… she does love Hotham… so… I think they will reach the summit.”
Zeil nodded, “I… I hope so.”

Kiloman smiled, “I wouldn’t have agreed to let them go ahead if I didn’t… but… either way… we won’t survive this… we were never meant to.”
Zeil asked, “Let’s not think like that… I’ve come too far to give up now. And I intend on getting you back with me.”
Kiloman nodded, “There it is… there is that selfless side of you that we all know… You might make it out… since… you weren’t part of our team at the start… but… as for Hotham and myself… we won’t.”
Zeil was confused, “What do you mean?”
Kiloman smiled as he looked at the ceiling of the cave as he replied, “Because the closer we get to the summit or our own death… the more we remember…”
Zeil asked, “Remember what?”
Kiloman replied while laying back on the sled and looking at the roof of the cave, “That Angel isn’t the mare we think she is… that we barely know her. After all, the day we actually met her… was the same day… we met you.”

Bk4/Ch5 After Eden's Kiss

Book 4/Chapter 5
After Eden’s Kiss
Year ??, Month ??, Day ??

Zeil laid in a dark abysses with nothing around him but an endless void of silence. Suddenly the dazed changeling started to hear a mare’s voice, “I never thought one as wee as you, would hold so much courage against such a dangerous foe. Put that oaf of a husband to shame did ya? Hmm, I s’pose that’s why he liked ya. Your probably the only one who ever could.”
As Zeil opened his eyes he found himself standing in a black abys as he looked around in confusion before finally seeing who was talking. Standing less than ten feet away was a tall shire mare with a light tan coat, dark freckles on her face and plot, and a long red mane that was braided passed her shoulders. As Zeil looked at the mare, he started feeling his chest as he looked down and spoke, “The spike… it’s gone… so, does that mean I’m?”
The mare shook her head, “Nah wee laddie, you’re still alive and kickin’ as ya should be. That creature did a good number on ya, though.”
Zeil gave the mare a suspicious look, “You’re… Aria… right?”
The mare smiled as she bowed her head slightly, “Charmed to make your acquaintance wee laddie. It’s always a pleasure to meet me husband’s friends.”

Zeil looked at his hooves as he spoke, “So… if I’m alive… then why are you here?”
Aria replied, “I just wanted to speak with ya face to face. Ya see, me husband may be a dull witted oaf of a stallion… but he ain’t bad at heart… I know ya feel a little distrust in ‘em, after hearin of the Highland Hive incident… but he truly feels bad for it, he’s been beatin’ himself up over it for a year now. What I’m getting at is… I want ya to do me a favor and watch over ‘em while you’re there. Ya see, you may be learnin’ magic from him… but… he’s learnin’ something more important from you.”
Zeil asked, “Really? What?”
She smiled, “What indeed laddie?”
Knowing that there was a hidden message in her words, Zeil tried to speak while softening the news, “I'd hate to say it… but… Cunningham… He’s dead. I don’t know if you know or not, but… even if im alive… I won’t be seeing him again.”
The mare smiled as she turned away and replied, “I appreciate your honesty wee laddie, I do, but ya might want to recheck your facts a bit.”
With that said, the mare started trotting away as she slowly faded before vanishing from Zeil’s sight as all he could see was black.

Soon Zeil’s pain slowly returned as he opened his eyes to a sound of wood scraping against a dirt trail. Now Zeil found himself looking at the sky above as tree limbs moved by overhead. Realizing he was laying on his back, Zeil turned his head to see that he was now laying on a travois that was being dragged along the road, which easily explained the scraping sounds. As the travois slid along the ground, one of the two poles slid onto a rock as it raised the right side of the transport up slightly before dropping it back onto the flat road as the impact send a throbbing pain into Zeil’s bandaged wound as he cringed and grunted in pain. Hearing his cargo’s pain, the shire pulling the wheel-less cart smiled as he spoke, “Well look who finally woke up, it’s good to see ya survived laddie, though if this is how ya choose to end all your fights, then might I suggest findin’ a more peaceful way to resolve your disputes? Preferably one that doesn’t end with me dragin’ ya home afterwards.”
Confused by the familiar voice, Zeil looked to the shire as he spoke in shock, “Cunningham?... you’re alive?”

Smiling at his surprise, Cunningham replied, “I know right? Ain’t that somthin’? I don’t know much about it meself, but from what the Queen said, a deal was struck and all those killed by the dark alicorn were brought back from the dead, good as new.”
Zeil looked at the bandages that covered his chest as he spoke, “Then… why do I still have this wound?”
Cunningham chuckled, “Well… you weren’t lucky enough to be killed by em’ when we found you, you were unconscious and hanging from a glass spire on a wall like a framed painting. It was amazin’ enough that ya lived through that, but it took four of us to get ya down without making your already serious wound worse. Seems the dark alicorn really did a number on ya didn’t he?”
Zeil laid back as he replied, “Osiris.”
“What was that lad?”
“He said his name was Professor Osiris.”

Cunningham continued trotting down the path as he gave a strange expression, “Professor? What did he fancy himself a supervillain in some cheap comic book?”
Zeil Replied, “He mentioned being a scientist working for the queen of Eden.”
Cunningham thought to himself, “Hmm… S’pose an experiment went wrong and caused him to destroy the kingdom. Either way I feel kinda jealous. The creature told me that I wasn’t worthy to know his name, then turned ‘round and told it to ya like you were some royal highness? I guess you’re lucky enough to be worthy.”
Zeil replied with an annoyed tone, “He impaled me and left me for dead remember?”
Cunningham nodded, “Ah… I guess lucky isn’t the word to use then… or is it?”
Zeil continued, “He called me a Titan… then bowed… it was… strange.”
Cunningham chuckled, “A titan? Are ya sure ya heard him right? And a bow? S’pose he just drop somthin’?”

Zeil rubbed his head as he replies, “I don’t know… after that it’s all a little… fuzzy. I remember him stabbing me, but nothing after that. Though I do remember him saying that he tried to make it non-lethal.”
Cunningham’s steps hesitated before continuing as Zeil noticed the pause in their movement as he asked, “What is it?”
Cunningham sighed as he replied, “Well… it’s about how he stabbed ya. Ya see you… weren’t supposed to survive that.”
Zeil replied in confusion, “What? What do you mean?”
Cunningham replied, “Lad… It been a week since we got you off that pike. And, we don’t know how long you were there… but when we got ya treated at the hospital… the doc said that you should have been dead.”
Zeil asked, “What? What are you talking about?”
Cunningham spoke, “Lad… Somthin’ kept you alive. Could have been the glass in that spike, your dark side or maybe even the queen’s good graces… but… the doctor that treated ya and I both agree that you should have been dead long before we help you.”

Zeil thought to himself as he mumbled, “Was it… Aria?”
Cunningham heard his words as he smiled, “S’pose she could have helped wee bit, that certainly sounds like somthin’ she’s do. Either way, ya lived through Eden’s Kiss just like the rest of us.”
Zeil continued looking at the sky as he asked, “Eden’s what?”
Cunningham replied, “Eden’s Kiss… that’s what the papers are calling this whole mess. Simply cuz it both started and ended all in Eden, so I’m assuming the creature ‘emself was born there.”
Zeil was surprised, “Wait… Ended? You mean the dark alicorn has been beaten?”
Cunningham nodded, “Beaten? From what I hear he was evaporated into particles less then sand… or whatever a volcano will do to ya… melt ya I guess.”
“But… how?... Who?”
Cunningham replied with a casual tone, “Some bigshot from Equestria, named Lightnin’, or Storm, or somthin’ along those lines. Rumor has it, he, an alicorn, a zebra, a few surviving ponies from Canterlot, and a small army of griffin launched an attack on the city of Eden, where our monster was stayin’. By the way… are zebra commin’ in Equestria?”
Zeil replied, “No not really.”
Cunningham thought to himself as he smiled, “Hm... interestin’.”

Zeil was trying to understand, “How… how did they kill him? That thing… it wasn’t mortal. You felt its aura too didn’t you? It couldn’t have been killed in any way that could kill the rest of us.”
Cunningham smiled, “Honestly lad… I’m not one to question these things. The creature is dead… and we are alive. S’pose the best we can do now… is head home and rebuild whatever he broke. As for you… You will need some time to recover. After all, you were impaled… it won’t be a, take two of these and call me in the mornin’ ordeal.”
Zeil Nodded, “Don’t worry, in about a week or so I'll be good to get back on my journey.”
Cunningham shook his head, “I don’t think you quite get it lad. Three broken ribs, a pierced back plate, a punctured lung, scraped artery, severe muscle damage, and that assuming the nerves that were severed still transmit feeling to that side of your body… lad… your gonna be down for a while.”
Zeil nodded, “Fine… then I'll give it a month… no longer.”
Cunningham smiled as he shook his head in hopelessness, “Impatient, a good enchanter does not make laddie. You’re gonna be down for a a good long while… but in the meantime… I can teach ya what I know about magic, and perhaps you can help the clan with our little… Tolerance issue. I regret what we did a year ago, but… the rest of the clan don’t, so… we should work on that. And while we are at it… ya might wasn’t to find ways of controllin’ your anger a bit. Time to heal, brings many lessons to learn, some greater than others.”

Year 02, Month 11, Day 05
(1 year and 4 months after Eden’s Kiss)

The McHolt Clan were gathered around the small fighting stage at the top of the hill waiting patiently. As they waited, Cunningham, McNess, and Zeil were standing to one side as Cunningham spoke, “Are ya sure ya want to try again laddie? If ya keep this up then you will never fully recover.”
Zeil replied, “I beat loach in a one on one fight and you agree that I’m recovered enough to leave… that was the deal right?”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye, but it’s only been three days since ya last fought ‘em. What’s to say he wont best ya again.”
Zeil replied, “He aimed for my wound last time. It may be healed on the outside but it’s still sore.”
McNess replied, “Course it’s sore… I keep tellin ya to let it rest but ya keep pushing yourself to heal and that’s why it’s taken so long.”

Cunningham added, “Ya can’t regrow that many muscles and bones overnight, and there ain’t any potion that can properly heal them without letting them rest for at least a few months. That said, your gonna have to learn to live with your actions. Pushing unhealed muscles will only make ‘em worse, so if ya want to win ya either have to wait a little longer or learn to get over the pain.”
Zeil nodded, “That’s why I’m here again… I'll push through the pain… and I'll win.”
Cunningham and McNess gave each other un unsure look for a brief moment before looking back as McNess spoke, “Pushing pain isn’t the best way to get over it lad. Even if ya push passed it, that wont make this a win for ya.”
Zeil replied, “I still have to try… For Zecora… I cant wait any longer.”
McNess started to reply, “But that ai-“
Cunningham interrupted, “Win or lose… Watch that anger o’ yours. You remember what I told ya ‘bout it?”

Zeil nodded as he replied, “Each time I get angry, it gets stronger.”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… and if it gets too strong… it might take control.”
Zeil replied with a serious tone, “It won’t… I’ll see to that.”
With nothing more to say, Zeil stepped out into the middle of the small arena as Loach stood there waiting for his opponent to get ready. As Zeil trotted into the arena, McNess Looked at Cunningham and spoke, “Are you gonna just let him destroy ‘emself like this? It’s this reason that he’s been here for almost a year and a half.”
Cunningham replied, “He’s mastered all I have to teach him in magic, but he still needs training in self-control. I figure the best lessons for that, are ones of failer. If he keeps losing he will learn eventually, that’s why I made that deal with him in the first place. Win against Loach and you can leave, Kinda motivating if I say so meself.”
McNess sighed, “Aye… but I doubt this will help him learn anythin’.”
Cunningham smiled, “Ya that worried for the lad Chief?”
McNess nodded, “Aye… the changeling had grown on me, I'd hate to see him turned to paste cuz ya made a foolish agreement with ‘em.”
Cunningham smiled, “He’s tougher then ya give ‘em credit for… What worries me… is what might happen, if he actually wins.”

As soon as Zeil and Loach were in the center of the arena, Loach spoke, “Still pickin’ fights ya can’t win laddie? Well changeling, come at me then.”
Zell nodded as he replied loud enough for all to hear, “It’s a Clan Challenge!...”
Loach smiled as he called in response, “Challenge accepted!”
Cunningham nodded as he spoke next, “Then a challenge we have… you two, state your rules!”
Loach replied first, “No magic, and no changin’ into something other then what ya are right now… don’t think I'll forget what I’m facin’ here.”
Zeil replied, “Agreed, My rule… fight till one can’t fight anymore. No killing.”
Loach nodded, “Agreed!”
Cunningham nodded, “Terms accepted, now choose your weapons!”
Loach called, “Give me my maul!”
Zeil called next, “My hooves are weapon enough.”

Feeling like the challenge was getting personal, the village oohed at Zeil’s confidence as Loach replied with an unimpressed tone, “Was nice knowin’ ya laddie.”
At that moment, a large war hammer fell into the ring as Cunningham replied with an unsure tone, “If you say so lad… Loach, Retrieve your weapon then as soon as you’re ready, you are free to begin.”
Loach nodded as he slowly trotted towards the maul as he spoke with a cocky tone, “last chance to give it up, ya almost had me earlier in the week, but I won’t be underestimatin’ ya this time. I’m rather busy today so, I’m gonna end this one quick.”
As Loaches reached his maul Zeil replied, “It will end quick… only I'll be the one to end it.”
Loach reached down for the maul as he replied, “Found a bit of confidence did ya?... good that will make it easier,” he grabbed the hammer’s shaft, “WHEN I BEAT YA!”
Making each movement assist his momentum, Loach picked up his maul and charge at Zeil as fast as the large weapon would allow as Zeil expected the charge and waited for his foe to get into rang. As loach approached Zeil, he took one massive horizontal swing as the large weapon flew towards Zeil’s head as the changeling ducked down leaving the gust of air following the weapon to be the only thing to hit the fast changeling’s face.

With the weapon’s weight and momentum speeding up his movements, Loach spun completely around in the direction of his swing before bringing the weapon up over his head and reusing the mauls forward motion the increase his power as he tried a second swing, this time vertical in an attempt to smash his smaller foe. Also seeing this attack, Zeil jumped out of the way as the large weapon slammed against the ground as the concussion could be felt by every shire witnessing the attack. As soon as Zeil landed from jumping out of the way, he took the weapons sudden stop to his advantage as he quickly turned around and Lunged towards the large hammer before Loach could lift it again. Loach tried to lift his weapon, however before the hammer could be lifted an inch from the ground, Zeil landed on the weapon’s shaft just below the hammer’s head as he vaulted off the weapon towards his foe before turning around and using all four hooves to kick the large shire in his face as hard as he could. With the attack catching him off guard, loach released his weapon as he stumbled a number of steps away as Zeil landed next to the maul and immediately cringed in pain over his own sore muscles.

Although none of the spectators, nor his opponent saw Zeil’s cringing expression, Cunningham saw all of it as he mumbled, “He’s still feeling pain from his year old wound… so… can he overcome it?”
Trying to hide his pain from the spectators around him, Zeil quickly changed his expression as he looked back to loach as the large shire stopped stumbling before putting his hoof over his face and feeling the blood that started dripping from his nose. As the shire looked at the blood in his hoof, he could only smile menacingly as he spoke, “Good hit lad… but it’s gonna take more than that to beat me.”
Zeil stepped closer to loach’s weapon, “I know…” he stomped down on the hammer’s shaft as the base of the shaft snapped off from the hammer’s head. After doing this, Zeil noticed that the way the wooden shaft had broken left it with a natural spike on one end, so with no intention of wielding a lethal weapon, he picked up the shaft and held it on the pointed end like a club as he continued, “That’s why I’m going to need this.”

Seeing that his broken weapon had now become a blunt weapon for his foe made Loach smile as he replied, “Well… get on with it then.”
Zeil glared at loach as he replied, “With pleasure.”
That said, Zeil charged at Loach as he swung his new weapon diagonally as Loach dodged the weapon’s first attack. Leaving no hesitation in his attack, Zeil swung again this time vertically, then horizontly as the large shire dodged both attack just like before. As Zeil continued his assault, Loach started mocking his foe with each dodge as he spoke, “Come now laddie, ya can’t be slowin’ down now… we were just getting started. If ya keep swingin’ like that, your never gonna beat me… then you’ll never see your lass again… though… it probably won’t matter too much more anyways.”
Zeil tried to ignore the taunting, but it didn’t stop him from replying as he swung again horizontally, “Really? And why is that?”

This time, Loach made no attempt to dodge the weapon, this time, he only raised his right hoof up leaving the thin club to hit his forearm as loach held the weapon there and replied, “Cuz it’s been over a year lad… no mare would wait that long for anypony. Face it… by now… she’s moved on. She’s forgotten ya and found another.”
Zeil replied, “No she hasn’t.”
Loach replied this time with an evil grin, “Who you tryin to convince lad? Me? Or yourself?...face it… she’s moved on, and is probably in the arms of some other young stallion who swept her off her hooves while you were away.”
Zeil started getting angry, “You’re wrong…”
Leached reached across with his left hoof and grabbed Zeil’s weapon Locking it against his right hoof as he continued, “Am i? No stallion is worth waitin this long for laddie… and if she is as fair as ya say? Then your old news, and she won’t be there for ya when you get back. But… then again… is she even worth tryin?”

Suddenly, Zeil’s anger took control as he replied, “Yes… SHE IS!!!”
At that moment, Zeil did something that nopony, not even Cunningham expected he would do. Zeil used Loach’s grip on the club as an anchor as he lifted himself off the ground like climbing a rope as he swung his hind hooves up and kicked the large shire’s right elbow as hard as he could as the sheer impact alone dislocated the limb causing loach to scream in pain as he released the weapon and grabbed his now limp arm. After releasing Zeil’s weapon, Zeil allowed himself to fall onto his back as he swung the weapon horizontally taking Loach’s hooves out from under him as the screaming shire fell to the ground with nothing slowing his fall. After hitting the ground, Zeil rolled back onto his hooves as he jumped onto Loaches torso and raised the weapon up over his head, only instead of swinging it like a club as he did before, Zeil exposed the sharp wooden stake as he brought it down as if he were going in for a killing strike. Seeing this, Cunningham stepped forward as he called, “ZEIL!!!”

Everypony in the area went silent, as they watched in shock as Zeil brought down the stake and dug it into the ground right next to Loach’s head leaving even the large shire to silence himself in fear that his life was ending. As everypony stared at Zeil, the zebra disguised changeling released the stake leaving it imbedded in the ground as he spoke with a terrifyingly casual tone, “Zecora… is everything to me… weather she waits for me or not isn’t the point. The point, is that I finally get to her… and tell her the truth. I don’t know if she will accept me… I don’t know if she will even want to see me after leaving without a words… but… she still deserves the truth… and… I plan on giving it to her through my own words. So say what you want… but get this straight, you will never be able to name a single thing on this earth, that is worth more than she is. And I will get to her… even if I have to literally go through you. You got that?...”
At that moment, Zeil gave Loach a glare that was unlike any he had givin before, it was a look that made his last words seem more like a goal, then a threat. However, with no intention of continuing the fight, Zeil stepped off his defeated foe as he looked to Cunningham and McNess, “Well?...”

Still a little shocked with what he just witnessed, Cunningham hesitated for a moment before Looking at McNess, “Ugh… Chief?”
McNess snapped himself out of his shock as he called, “This match is decided, Loach can’t continue to fight with a broken hoof so… Zeil is the winner of the challenge!”
Zeil smiled with pride, but there were no cheers from the surrounding herd. In fact, everypony witnessing the fight was still frozen in shock as Zeil spoke, “Now, if you will excuse me… I have a bag to pack.”
With that said, Zeil started trotting away as the rest of the herd rushed to Loach to see to his wounds. Doing the same, Cunningham approached Loach as he kneeled down and looked at his dislocated arm, “It’s alright laddie, it ain’t broke, just limp.”
Loach looked at Cunningham as he spoke out of pain and anger, “Oh great idea Mr Smarty-pants. Make ‘em angry he says. It will motivate ‘em he says… I hope you’re happy after seeing what that got me.”
Cunningham checked the movement of his wounded arm as he replied, “I am, thank ya. And ya only have yourself to blame for that one. I said make ‘em mad… but you chose to push ‘em over the edge.”

Loach spoke in a gloating manner, “Well parden me for not knowing the scale that showed where he would go from angry to stark ravin’ mad!”
Cunningham stretched his arm out as he replied, “Well, it worked didn’t it? You wanted a good fight and ya got it. Sides, it ain’t like he was gonna kill ya.”
Loach gestured towards the broken hammer shaft that was sticking out of the ground as he replied, “What do ya think that is? A toothpick?”
Cunningham didn’t reply, instead he only gave Loach a dull look before jerking his arm back into place as Loach screamed in pain as Cunningham smiled, “Feel that?... means you’re still alive.”
McNess approached as he spoke, “Cunningham… I’m all about givin’ changelings a second chance now… but are ya sure ‘bout Zeil? What he did a second ago… that ain’t the way he usually fights.”
Cunningham nodded, “I know… cuz it wasn’t him fighting. It’s getin’ stronger as he does… this isn’t good, but I may have a temporary solution to his problem.”
McNess asked, “Will it help? I’ve come to like the wee laddie, I’d hate to see him fall to… well… himself.”
Cunningham replied, “It will, but… if the thing in him is growing at the same pace as he… I wonder if he will ever overcome it.”

Back at Cunningham’s home, Zeil was busy packing his saddlebag as he sorted out all the potions that he had made for his journey. As he packed, he couldn’t help but continue thinking about the words that Loach was said during their fight. As he thought about it, he started to worry that it was actually possible that Zecora could have moved on without him. As he thought about this, Zeil looked across the room at the glass incased poison joke that sat on the shelf. With worry in his step, Zeil started approaching the preserved plant as he slowly reached out and placed his hoof firmly against the glass. Soon his worry was dispersed as the blue plant quickly changed to a bright glowing gold as Zeil smiled at what the plant’s transformation meant. Seeing the smile, Cunningham spoke as he entered the home quietly, “There… are you convince now laddie? Loach’s words may have been harsh, but you know as well as I that true love such as yours will never fade… not even now after the long time you spent apart. She still loves ya lad, that joke wouldn’t glow if she didn’t.”

Zeil smiled as he took his hoof off the glass leaving the poison joke to slowly turn back to its original blue color, “I know… I… just had to remind myself.”
Cunningham approached the joke as he stood next to Zeil and spoke, “I casted this spell the day after Aria died… I hoped with all my heart that when I held it, it would turn gold and glow. But then… when it didn’t… it only assured that… she was gone. And… our love with her.”
Zeil shook his head, “No… She is gone, but your love still remains. She’s just holding it for you, till you two are together again. That’s why the Joke can’t find it.”
Cunningham smiled as he placed his hoof against the glass, only this time the joke didn’t react as the Druid replied, “Did she tell you that?”
Zeil shook his head, “She didn’t have to.”
Getting back to his task, Zeil turned away from the shelf as he started gathering his things again. As he did he spoke, “So… how was Loach? Will he live?”
Cunningham chuckled, “He will, though I think ya killed his pride for a bit… Ya kinda went overboard out there lad.”
Zeil shook his head, “I didn’t… He did…”
Cunningham nodded, “Aye… I felt it too. The first I’ve felt his aura so strongly.”
Zeil nodded, “Usually when he takes control he only talks a big game… this time he controlled my actions. If I hadn’t realized it and jumped in at the last second… then loach would be dead.”
Cunningham nodded in agreement, “Aye, but you still managed to stop him before that happened.”
Zeil sighed in disappointment, “That’s not good enough… one second late is the difference between life and death now. I held onto this vow I made for two years… if I fail now, before I’m even half way back to Equestria… then… how am I supposed to look Zecora in the eye?”

Cunningham smiled as he trotted to a drawer and pulled out a few small flasks filled with a silver potion, and an envelope. With the items in hoof, Cunningham trotted to the table where Zeil’s saddlebag sat as he laid out the potions and spoke, “I’ve been testing a few solutions out that may help you. So fare since we still don’t know what we are dealing with, all I have are these.”
Zeil approached, “What are they?”
Cunningham replied, “If I’m right, then by taking one of these every time ya feel that creature in ya, you can neutralize him enough to remain in control. Though, there is a problem. Ya see, these potions are potent enough that your body realizes your taking them, so in time it will fight back.”
Zeil was confused, “Fightback? How?”
Cunningham replied, “Well let’s just say, ya take one today and it works without a hitch. In a month, it will be less effective, and three months even more so. But give it about four or five months… and you won’t be affected at all.”

Zeil picked up the potion as he replied, “So… I'll be immune to it in five months?”
Cunningham nodded, “Or sooner… it depends on how well your body tries to fight it. And seein’ that you’re just now getting over a serious injury, it could be less.”
Zeil gave the potion an unsure look as Cunningham saw this and replied, “It’s your choice lad… I can’t control what you do from here on out. But, I would like to know that you made it to your lass with your conscience intact.” He handed Zeil the envelop next, “This is the recipe to make it… its very complex… but considering who taught ya how to mix potions… ya should fair well with makin’ it.”
Zeil smiled as he took the letter from Cunningham however before he could reply, the envelop started to glow a bright gold as Zeil looked at it with confusion as Cunningham smiled, “Oh… and I managed to give ya a golden joke leaf too. So that if ya ever worry that your lass has forgotten ya, you can give yourself a reminder, to get off ya lazy plot and keep movin’.”
Zeil smiled as he placed the letter in his saddle bag then turned to his teacher before putting his hoof out, “Thanks Cunningham, for saving my life, for teaching me magic… for everything.”
Cunningham bro-hoofed him as he replied, “Thank you lad… for showin’ this clan that not all changelings are bad, and… for givin’ me a chance to make up for my sin.”

Ready for his journey, Zeil put his cloak on and put the hood up as he trotted to the door opened it and spoke one last time, “Well, if you ever find yourself near Equestria, feel free to stop by, it should make for an interesting visit.”
Cunningham nodded, “I will, but only if ya introduce me to that lass of yours. I'd like to know which mare had the patients to fall for an oaf like you.”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Well, see ya later Cunningham.”
With that Zeil closed the door as Cunningham smiled before sitting down at the table. As he sat down offspring who was sleeping in the corner of the room woke as it looked to its master and squawked loudly. Seeing this, Cunningham smiled, “Oh, you’re hungry ain’t ya? Guess it’s about time to fee ya then.”
As he stood up, the Druid mumbled, “Things are gonna be quiet around here with the lad and his devil gone.”

As he mumbled those words, Cunningham paused, “Devil… wait…”
Curious, the druid stopped what he was doing as he approached his bookshelf and pulled out an older book before flipping to a page and looking at the image of the devil that he had shown Zeil one year ago. As he looked at the demonic beast he mumbled, “Why didn’t I notice it before? The lad said that Osiris called him a titan… it can’t be a coincidence… can it?”
Cunningham trotted back to the table and sat down as he continued mumbling to himself, “A dark creature, that could bring death… and a hero that would bring life… could it really be Osiris and that Bolt pony? Or… could Zeil had been one and the same.”
Cunningham closed the book and mumbled, “I wonder… what can prevent death when death is curtain, what creature could hold that kind of power, and… what ya s’pose he wants with a changeling.”
With the book closed Cunningham continued pondering his theory as he ran his hoof along the title of the story as it read, The Legend of the Titans.

Bk5/Ch3 Redeeming Past Sins

Book 5/Chapter 3
Redeeming Past Sins

Year 03, Month 05, Day 14

Using a small knife that was amongst his new supplies, Zeil scooped out the paste-like potion from the bottom of the caldron as he placed it into a small plastic container. After filling the container, Zeil placed a small lid over the spell he made, as he smiled and looked at the substance, “There… now to put it on the princess’s forehead… somehow.”
Zeil preceded to place the small container in his saddlebag as he started to close his bag and prepare to leave the room. However before he finished getting ready, his attention was taken from his task as a loud boom was heard outside as Zeil’s attention was drawn towards the balcony doors to a thunderstorm outside. Looking at the heavy rain falling outside, Zeil stepped away from his bag as he approached the balcony doors and watched as the rainfall made it difficult to see through the glass doors.

As he watched the rainfall, Zeil felt strangely compelled to push the doors open as the cool and humid air filled the room as Zeil looked into the haze outside. With the heavy rain falling and the situation taking place in this kingdom, Zeil felt slightly depressed as his mind was filled with memories of Zecora, The cave he confessed in, and their kiss that took place over three years ago. As Zeil thought about this, the homesick changeling seemed to lose himself as he soon realized he had taken a few stepped into the rain and was looking into the sky as the rain fell onto his face and body. As Zeil felt the rain dripping from his mane, his thoughts of nostalgia seemed to take a turn for the worst as negative questions filled his mind leaving him to mumbled, “Will… will she be there when I get back? After all this time… will she remember me? Would she even give me a chance to speak after disappearing for so long? And even if she did… would she accept me… as me?...”

All of a sudden, Zeil heard a voice from the balcony doorway, “Mr. Zeil… are you okay?”
After hearing that, Zeil looked to the door to see Reiner standing at the door with a confused expression on his face. Feeling a little awkward about standing in the rain, Zeil turned to the door and trotted back into the room as he replied, “No… I’m fine… just… thinking.”
Reiner smiled, “About Zecra?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “It’s Zecora… but yea. Is it that obvious?”
Reiner smiled, “Yea… I often ask myself the same question… about… if the princess will accept me if her memories actually returned. Or… did she even like me back then before her accident.”
Zeil didn’t think that Reiner heard his questions to himself but either way he replied, “Even if she didn’t back then, I’m sure by now, she would at least give you a chance.”

Both Zeil and Reiner thought about the statement for a few seconds before Reiner replied with an annoyed sigh, “Wow… we really are somewhat alike aren’t we?”
Zeil smiled with embarrassment, “I guess we are…”
Reiner smiled, “Ya know, if this Zecora is as special as you say… then I don’t think those questions should matter to you. Maybe, you should just ask her yourself when you get there. How do you plan to hit a target, if you never take a shot?”
Zeil nodded as he replied, “Sure… I guess you’re right.” He realized something, “Wait… why are you here? Did the princess wake up safely?”
Reiner nodded as he replied, “Oh right, she woke up last night without any problems so there was no need to worry. I’m actually here because she wanted to see you personally.”
Zeil was curious as he approached his saddlebag and pulled out a towel, “Me? Any idea what for?”

Reiner’s expression seemed to become unsure as he replied, “No… not really, but… She is in the throne room waiting so… I’m here to escort you there.”
Zeil felt his shift in emotions as he finished drying himself off then returned the towel to his saddlebag while asking, “Are… are you alright? Did something happen?”
Reiner shook his head as he replied, “Well… no, but… I can’t help but feel that… something is wrong. Like something bad is about to happen.”
Zeil put on his saddlebag and cloak as he replied, “Just know… that we are friends. And I’m here to help.”

Feeling the comment came out of nowhere, Reiner asked, “What was that?”
Zeil replied, “Nothing…” He took one last look at the room for anything that belonged to him as he replied, “Well that’s everything.”
Reiner looked around the room, “You packed all your stuff, are you leaving now?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, I was actually going to say goodbye to you two first, but since you came to get me, I can just leave after we meet with the princess.”
With that said, the two left the room and started down the corridor towards the throne room. Not long after the two could see the throne room doors on their path as Reiner spoke, “There that’s where she is waiting for you… since you’re leaving I just want to tell you, thanks for the vote of confidence.”
Zeil was confused as he and Reiner approached the massive doors, “Confidence?”
Reiner nodded, “Hearing your story, and what you’re willing to go through for the mare you love? Makes me want to work harder with helping the princess. She needs more confidence herself, and I think that if she can find that confidence, she can truly be the greatest queen this kingdom has ever had.”
Zeil smiled, “I wouldn’t doubt that one bit… but remember something… She needs you more then you know.”

Reiner could only give Zeil a confused look, but before he could ask about Zeil’s statement, the two guards standing at the entrance pushed the large double doors open to reveal a massive throne room behind them. As the two traversed the throne room, Zeil felt a little surprised, as anypony would expect the throne room was large with a small number of marble pillars holding the high ceiling above. But this throne room carried the same majesty as Canterlot’s, to include large stained glass windows lining the side of the room and a long red carpet leading from the large doors to an alter which held two thrones. One empty since the kingdom currently had no king, and the other with Princess Mira sitting in wait as she watched both her guest and her captain enter the room. As the two entered, Zeil chose a place that was a reasonable distance from the princess as Zeil stopped there leaving Reiner to step to the princess’s side as he turned and waited for Princess Blossom to address her changeling guest.

As Zeil stood before the princess, he immediately felt that this visit wasn’t good as the princess gave him a fake smile before standing and speaking, “Mr. Zeil, first I would like to apologies for the burden placed on you yesterday. Had I known that my… condition was still a problem, I would have spared you the trouble and would have avoided the situation entirely.”
As Zeil stood ready, he started to feel the aura of royal guards hiding behind the marble pillars as he ignored the obvious trap and played along, “You shouldn’t apologies for your handicap your majesty. Whether we are of royal or peasant blood, we are all still mortal.”
Princess Blossom’s anger seemed to increase with that comment as she did all she could to hide it while replying, “If you can… please refrain from using that specific word… That is a word that my mother used quite often, a swear upon my ears, so I will not condone that word in my presence.”

Zeil replied with a less then apologetic tone, “My apologies your majesty, though on that subject… I want to ask you personally… How did the queen die?”
All of a sudden the room seemed to overflow with tension as Reiner sensed it and felt concerned. However before he could say anything to address it, Princess Blossom replied with a dark tone, “Upon her return from abandoning her kingdom in its time of need, my mother Queen Rose had sadly fallen ill with tuberculosis and not long after… passed away in her sleep.”
Zeil smiled as he could feel her anger build, “Did she?”
The princess glared at Zeil as she replied, “She did… why? Do you doubt this claim?”
Zeil nodded, “I do actually.”
Princess Blossom replied while holding back her anger, “Sorry, but I’m not here to please the doubt of one who refuses to show himself to me.”
Zeil gave her an annoyed look, “Show myself?”
Princess Blossom nodded, “Yes… Since you’ve arrived, I have only gazed upon your disguise. I’ve yet to see your true changeling form… so that leaves me to wonder… Are you truly a reformed changeling… or are you the parasite.”

Zeil smiled with a smudge tone, “Sounds like an insinuation to me… your majesty? What exactly are your trying to accuse me of?”
Fed up with his disrespectful tone, Princess Blossom called, “Guards?”
At that moment, the royal guard’s hiding behind the pillars stepped out from their hiding spots and surrounded Zeil as they pointed spears at the changeling guest. Seeing this, Reiner looked to Princess Blossom with concern, “What? Your majesty? What’s going on?”
Princess Blossom replied, “Captain… I have reason to believe that Mr. Zeil is not who he claims to be… and thereby, I am placing him under arrest under suspicion of conspiring against the crown.”
Reiner was surprised, “Wh-what?”
Zeil replied, “Now that is one heck of an accusation your majesty. Do you happen to have any proof of this theory?”
Princess Blossom nodded, “Since you asked… I do. The day we met you spoke with blatant disrespect towards me, and I chose to overlook it… but recently, Captain Reiner has informed me that you’ve been asking very serious questions about the kingdom. Then last night you purchased a very potent poison from a local ingredients store. And now, I believe you may use such a poison to threaten or harm myself in order to gain control of the crown. After all, wasn’t it you who said that my weakness would attract the attention of those willing to take advantage of my crown?”

Although Zeil knew what she was talking about he still played dumb as he replied, “Poison?... I don’t know what you’re talking about?”
Princess Blossom replied, “I’m speaking of course, of the Moon Weed.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Ah… now I see… so is that’s how you killed her?”
Hearing his tone sent Princess Blossom into a rage as she held back her anger and looked to Reiner, “Captain Reiner…”
Reiner was conflicted, He had thought he found a friend in their changeling guest, and still did, but knowing his duty came first, Reiner spoke, “Guards, Take this traitor to the dungeon. We will hold a trial in a few days to determine his guilt and sentencing.”

Zeil wasn’t surprised by Reiner’s reaction, as he held his serious expression leaving one of the surrounding royal guards raised his spear and approached Zeil from behind to apprehend him. However as the royal guard reached out and touched his shoulder, Zeil grabbed his arm and kicked with his hind hoof as the guard took the full force of Zeil’s kick to his face leaving the impact completely tossed the guard back causing him to both loose his weapon and his consciousness. As the guard was thrown away from Zeil, the quick changeling turned as he grabbed the falling spear then continued his turn till he was facing the princess again as he pointed his weapon at the cursed princess as she stared at his actions in shock. Pointing his weapon at the lone monarch Zeil spoke, “I don’t intend on going anywhere… not till I do, what must be done.”
Surprised and now afraid, Princess Blossom took a step back in worry as Reiner gave the next order, “Guards! Arrest him! Don’t let him get away!”

At that moment, the remaining three guards charged Zeil as two tried to swing their spears horizontally at him from both his left and right side at the same time. Seeing the incoming attacks, Zeil raised his spear up to his left as the left guard’s weapon hit and was blocked by the attack. Then with the Right guards spear nearing its target, Zeil swung his body under the left guard’s blocked spear making his hind legs face the left guard as he kicked back hitting the guard in his face as the left guard fell to the ground with the shock of the kick and the right guard’s weapon being blocked by Zeil’s vertical spear. With one guard blocked, one guard downed, and another fast approaching, Zeil lunged forward to the blocked guard as he bashed his head against the guard’s face, neutralizing him just in time to ready his weapon for the last guard in the area. With his weapon ready, the remaining guard decided to thrust the spear towards Zeil as the skilled and accurate changeling held the spear horizontally in front of him as he used the wooden shaft to block the tip of the razor sharp spear

However as the spear tip hit the wooden shaft, the wood on the weapon started splitting as Zeil quickly pushed the weapon down towards the ground as the tip of the guard’s weapon lanced through the wooden shaft far enough to get lodged, but not enough to split the spear all the way through. Seeing his weapon wedged, the guard tried to withdraw his attack, but with Zeil pinning his pierced weapon on the ground, the spear didn’t budge as Zeil took the opportunity to stomp down on the guard’s weapon just below the blade as the metal blade was broken free of the wooden spear shaft causing the guard to stumble backwards while caring his now bladeless spear. With the guard’s stumbling, Zeil took this diversion to swing his spear around as he slammed the shaft against the guard’s face as the split wood shattered and flew apart with the attack leaving the last guard to fall to the ground unconscious, and his now free spear blade to slide across the marble floor till it hit the bottom step of the throne room’s alter.

Now with part of the shattered staff still in his hoof, Zeil tossed the broken weapon aside as he looked to the princess, picked up the last guard’s bladeless spear staff and spoke, “This ends now.”
Terrified Princess Blossom took another step back as Zeil darted towards her with his staff ready. Reacting out of impulse, Reiner drew his swords and charged at Zeil as he swung his sword leaving Zeil to swing the staff as the two weapons locked both fighters in place. As the two were locked, Reiner spoke, “Why are you doing this? I trusted you! You and I were alike… Was it all just a lie? What do you want!?!”
Glaring back, Zeil replied, “To stop this kingdom from falling to darkness. I have to get to the princess, to save her from herself.”
Reiner held him back as he replied, “What? What are you talking about?”
Zeil glared into his eyes, “The Princess is broken… you said so yourself, but she can be fixed. I just need to get to her to do so. Everything I told you was true, Zecora, Equestria, Shining Armor’s curse… Everything. So what reason would I have to want to do anything to hurt your princess? Why would I even try, when I don’t intend to stay another day in this kingdom? Reiner you said yourself, that you would do anything for the princess… then let me help her. You’ve seen it haven’t you? She isn’t the mare you fell in love with. Right now, she is somepony different. So let me pass, and I’ll bring back her true self.”

Reiner was completely confused as he tried to decide while still holding Zeil back, “I… how… what makes you so sure?”
Zeil shook his head as he sighed in disappointment, “I know this curse as if I had casted it myself. It corrupts emotions, you’ve seen it too… Is she really who you think she is right now?”
Reiner didn’t reply, instead he tried to understand what was going on as, Zeil saw his hesitation and continued, “She needs you now, more than she ever did before… Are you going to let her fall again? Or will you stand by her side like you promised.”
As Reiner heard these words, he could only think for one more second before sighing with his decision and loosening his grip on his weapon allowing Zeil to push passed him to continue his charge towards Princess Blossom. Seeing Zeil quickly approaching, Princess Blossom tried to back up more until she found herself completely against her throne as Zeil tossed his staff to the side, pulled the small container from his cloak and jumped in the air as high as he could. While in the air, Zeil opened the container, scooped as much of the paste like potion into his hoof as he could, then tossed the container aside just as he landed in front of the royal unicorn as she started to plea, “N-no, s-sto-”

Before she could finish her plea, Zeil swung his hoof as his hoof glanced across her forehead before hitting her horn as the impact threw her head to the side, leaving the paste on her skin. With the princess’s head thrown to the side, and Zeil finished with his goal, the room went deftly silent as Reiner, and Zeil looked to the princess as she held her head to the side looking away from the two. As the room’s silence lingered, Zeil took a step back from Princess Blossom as he mumbled, “Did… did it work?”
Slowly the princess turned her head back to look at Zeil, however as soon as their eyes met, Princess Blossoms eyes started glowing brightly as she raised her head up and gave a loud scream as if she were being attacked from inside. As her scream echoed through the throne room, a magical explosion emanated from her horn as a shockwave hit Zeil and tossed the unsuspecting changeling across the room as he colligated with Reiner leaving both he and the guard captain to fall to the ground.

Shortly after, the shockwave was soon followed by a powerful purple whirlwind that started spiraling around the princess as the powerful forces of the sudden cyclone caused the stain glass windows to shatter inward as Zeil and Reiner shielded their faces from the falling glass. Shielding their eyes from the debris, Zeil and Reiner picked themselves up as they looked through the spiraling vortex that had now engulfed the head of the throne room. As the two looked at the vortex they could barely see Princess Blossom amongst the winds as she hovered over the ground with her mane standing on end from the winds. Confused, Reiner yelled over the sound of the wind, “Zeil! What happened? What did you do?”
With the sound of the winds overshadowing his words, Zeil replied as loud as he could, “I don’t know! This didn’t happen last time!”
Rained was surprised, “Last time? What are you talking about?”

Looking at the princess through the winds Zeil replied, “The curse has been festering in her for too long! Her emotions are running ramped. Fear, sorrow, anger, joy… and pain, she is feeling all emotions all at once! If this keeps up, she will burn out, and… I don’t know what will happen then, but there is no good scenario that will come from this!”
Reiner was even more confused, “Curse? What are you talking ab-”
At that moment both throne at the head of the throne room were picked up by the winds and tossed around before hitting pillars causing them to shatter into splinters. After shielding themselves from the new debris, Zeil looked to Reiner and spoke, “I’ll explain later! Right now she needs you!”
Reiner was confused, “What?”
Zeil replied, “She is missing memories that were forcibly removed by magic. Right now I think her emotions are trying to fill that void with everything at once and it’s causing her to relapse! But if you tell her the story, the true story as you told me, then whatever emotion she felt that day will fill that void and her magic should stabilize!”

Reiner replied with worry in his tone, “So… I just tell her the truth, and she will be fine? How are you so sure?”
Zeil shrugged his shoulders, “I’m not! But it’s the only option we have! I’ll warn you though… whatever emotion she felt that day will fill that void… so if it wasn’t that significant to her in the least. Then that’s what she will feel. Are you sure you want to go with that? Knowing it could change your relationship forever?”
Reiner looked at the princess in the vortex again as he nodded, “As long as she is safe… I don’t care if it is with or without me… I can’t lose her, not like this.”
Zeil nodded, “Then you know what to do… Go to her, tell her the truth, and force her to remember.”
Still unsure about the whole situation that they suddenly found themselves in, Reiner took one large bracing sigh before charging towards the princess as fast as he could while fighting the winds that spiraled around her.

As Reiner approached the wall of the spiraling wind, the determined guard pushed himself through the magic induced winds before finding out something surprising. Though Princess Blossom was hovering in the air with her main standing straight up as if to be altered by the wind, inside the vortex there was no wind at all. In fact it was similar to the eye of a hurricane as Reiner rushed to the princess and called, “Princess Blossom!”
With her eyes open and glowing too brightly to see any pupils, Princess Blossom spoke slowly as if she were possessed, “Who’s there… What is that voice?”
Reiner replied, “Princess! It’s me! Captain Reiner! I’m here to save you!”
She replied with no change in her expression, or tone, “Save… what save?... I… I don’t know what’s happening… I feel… afraid… angry… happy… but most… confused… what… what is happening… what happened when…”

All of a sudden the purple spiraling magic surrounding them turned black, as it blotted out all light in the vortex leaving the two to vanish from Zeil’s sight. As soon as they vanished, Zeil called, “Reiner! What happened? Can you hear me?”
As Zeil looked to the large black vortex, a few guard’s rushed into the room as they looked to Zeil leaving the leader to call, “What happened? Where are Princess Blossom and Captain Reiner?”
Zeil replied, “In the portal! Reiner is saving the princess, all we can do is stay back till he is finished!” Zeil looked back at the portal as he mumbled, “Come on Reiner.”

Inside the black vortex, Reiner tried to look around as the light was blotted out entirely, leaving it impossible to see the princess in front of him or anything around him. As he looked around in confusion, he started to hear the princess’s voice, “I… I can’t remember… I can’t remember what happened… that day.”
With her voice echoing, Reiner couldn’t tell where she was as he called, “That day?... you mean, in the cherry grove?”
“Cherry… grove?...”
At that moment, something strange happened. As Reiner looked thought the dark void, cherry pedals started falling from out of nowhere as Reiner looked up to see as one fell against his muzzle causing him to flinch. With that reaction Reiner brushed away the pedal but as he opened his eyes to look around, the surprised guard found himself standing in a vast cherry orchard. Looking around, He mumbled, "I… I know this place…”
“Excuse me?...”
At that moment, Reiner turned around to see a familiar filly standing in front of him as he started to speak, “P-prin-”

Before he could finish his statement, Reiner stopped when he realized his voice didn’t sound like it did before, in fact it sounded as he did when he was a young colt. As he placed his hoof against his throat, Reiner realized that he himself had changed into the very same foal he was the day he met that same filly that stood in front of him. In fact as he pieced together what was happening, he realized that it was as if he were reliving that very day. The cherry grove around him, his age and lack of armor, and the beautiful princess that stood before him. As the filly princess looked at him, she noticed his silence as she spoke, “Um… what’s wrong?”
Reiner decided what he needed to do to help the princess as he started reenacting from memory as he replied, “Oh, um… My name is Reiner… Reiner Grove. And… can I ask your name? I never seen you around here before.”
The young princess raised her head and spoke as if she were trying to speak properly, “Um… My name is Princess Blossom of Spring Haven. It’s very nice to meet you Mr Grove.”

Remembering this only made Reiner smile, It was as if he were reliving that very day, the way she tried to act all proper, the cherry blossoms falling on her as she tried not to flinch with each one that hit her face, in all accounts, it was cute. Reiner replied with the very same reaction he gave all those years ago, “Mr? You don’t have to call me that. Actually if you’re a princess, then since my father owns this orchard, then I guess I’m a Prince. So… you can call me that.”
The young princess giggled as she replied, “Alright… Prince Reiner. Then I guess that’s what I’ll call you.”
And from there, Reiner started replaying the same role he played back then, as he did his best to act out the day exactly as it had progressed all those years ago.

Outside the portal, the magic continued spiraling around the large black pillar as the swirling winds started causing the ceiling rafters to shift as small amounts of debris fell from the top of the room and joined the swirling winds. As this happened, Zeil did his best to hold himself steady as he looked to the shredding ceiling and mumbled, “If this keeps up any further the roof will come crashing down on top of us.”
Seeing the potential danger, Zeil looked to the unconscious guards on the ground as he instructed the arriving soldiers, “We need to get them out of here! The ceiling could come down on us any minute.”
One of the guards replied, “But what about the princess and the captain! Their safety comes first!”
Zeil replied, “Princess Blossom will be safe as long as she is with Reiner. We need to worry about the support of the throne room! We can’t help them if we are crushed under the ceiling.”

Understanding the situation, the guard called to his soldiers, “Get those troops out of here! And stay near the doorway.”
The guards nodded as they and Zeil helped get the unconscious soldiers out of the crumbling throne room. Shortly after evacuating the last soldier, the spiraling winds tore through the roof of the throne room as the lead guard spoke, “What’s happening, what can we do to stop this?”
Zeil replied, “All we can do is wait… If Reiner succeeds, the princess and he should return and this magic will subside.”
Another guard asked, “And if he fails? What then?”
Zeil shook his head, “We can’t think about that. We should have confidence that Reiner will pull through this unharmed. Knowing how much he cares for the princess, we can only have faith.”

Though time outside the vortex was normal, inside time seemed to move much faster as, the young Reiner and Princess Blossom’s reenacted day of play started to come to its end. Seeing dusk approaching the young princess looked to the sky and spoke, “Uh oh… it’s almost sunset. I better get back or mother will be furious.”
Dreading what was coming next, Reiner spoke, “Wait… Before you go… I want to show you something.”
The young princess gave him a curious look, “What is it Prince Reiner?”
Reiner tried to smile through his anxiety as he replied, “There… is a special place that I like to go to at this time of day... w-would you like to see it? It’s not very far from here.”
Princess Blossom thought to herself, “I don’t know…”
Reiner shook his head, “It’s not that far, it should only take a few minutes. Please… I promise you will like it.”

Reiner gave her a hopeful look as she smiled at his expression before replying, “Well… if it will only take a few minutes then… I’m sure mother won’t be too angry with me… so, lead the way Prince Reiner.”
Reiner smiled as he turned to the trail and led the princess to the largest tree in the grove. On their path, Reiner felt conflicted, He knew that this day had to go exactly the way it did all those years ago if he wanted to save the princess with little change in her emotional state, but to do this… he would have to let her reenact the same accident that he still felt responsible for after all these years. He would have to let her fall from the tallest branch in the cherry tree, then fall beside her after failing to protect her. As soon as they arrived, Princess Blossom stood under the tree and looked as far up as she could as she marveled at the large cherry tree, “Whoa… I didn’t know cherry trees could grow so big.”
Reiner replied as he did back then, “Yea, this tree is a tart cherry tree. They can grow reeealy tall… and that’s not the best part.”
Princess Blossom gave him a curious look, “Really? What’s the best part?”
Reiner tried to give a fake smile as he replied, “Well… I’ll show you when we get to the top. C’mon.”

Though his mind was telling him it was a bad idea, Reiner started climbing as he watched as Princess Blossom started climbing behind him. With his mind caught in his objective, he wasn’t paying attention to the princess as he heard a faint yelp of worry as Reiner stopped climbing to look down. As he looked at the filly below him, he saw Princess Blossom with her arms wrapped around a branch as she cringed her eyes close in worry, “I… I can’t go any higher… it’s… it’s too high.”
Reiner replied as he did back then, “It’s only a little higher you don’t have to be so scared.”

Princess Blossom opened her eyes as she tried to act brave, “I’m not scared I… I…” she looked down, but when she saw the height she closed her eyes and hugged the branch tighter as she continued, “I… I just can’t go any higher… if I fall… I’ll…”
Though his words were truthful at the time, this time they were a lie as he replied, “You won’t fall, I promise.”
Princess Blossom opened her eyes as she replied, “But… what if I do?”
Seeing the worry in her eyes reminded Reiner of how concerned he felt as he sighed and held out his hoof to her, “It’s aright princess… here take my hoof. And we can go up together.”
The young princess looked at his hoof, “But… but…”

Reiner smiled with confidence as he replied, “It’s aright… As long as I’m by your side, I will never let my princess fall.”
Though Reiner spoke with every word he had said that day, this time he noticed exactly how much his words affected her, as the young princess looked into his eyes with hope before replying as she reached out and took his hoof, “Aright… I trust you… my prince.”
As the two made eye contact, Reiner became even more conflicted with what he was going to do as he started climbing up the tree with Princess Blossom’s hoof in his as they both climbed higher until they made it to the place where Reiner was going to show her the scenery.

As soon as they reached the top, Reiner helped the princess onto the same branch as last time as he stood on the branch beside her before looking out over the orchard as he spoke, “Remember the best part I mentioned before… look out there.”
At that moment, the young princess looked out over the orchard as her breath was taken away as she saw the most beautiful sight she had ever seen. Out in the cherry grove, all the pink pedals on the cherry trees glowed a bright combination of pink, red and orange as the amber dusk sky mixed with the pink pedals to create a sight as if the large orchard were perfectly placed rows of torches flickering in the wind over the large fields. As the two looked over the orchard, Reiner spoke as he did back then, “I always liked this view, sometimes I wish the tree’s glowed like this at night. I bet it would look amazing.”

The princess smiled as she started to look at Reiner to reply however, as she did, the event that Reiner had been dreading happened, as the branch beneath her hooves broke causing the young princess to fall. Though he had already made his decision, Reiner immediately changed his mind as he quickly turned towards the falling princess and dove towards her. Since he was expecting it this time, Reiner was able to catch the princess in midair as he quickly rolled over placing himself between Princess Blossom and the ground as he held her close as she spoke in shock, “P-Prince Reiner?”
Reiner held her close as he spoke softly, “I can’t… I can’t let this happen… not again… not now that I know I can change it. Princess…” He held her tighter, “I care about you Princess Blossom. Back then and now… I want nothing more than to see you happy. And if it means risking my life for you to enjoy the cherry blossoms… then so be it. Because… I love you, and I always will.”
As he held her close the princess started to speak, “Rei-”
Before she could finish, the two foals had reached the end of their fall as the two hit the ground after falling from over twenty feet in the air.

Back in the throne room, the howling winds and flying debris seemed to slow down as the large spiraling pillar of wind and darkness slowly faded until all debris fell to the ground. As soon as the magical tornado vanished, rain began falling into the large gaping hole in the ceiling as Zeil and the observing royal guards entered the destroyed throne room to find Reiner and Princess Blossom holding each other at the head of the throne room amongst the falling rain. Worried, Zeil and the rest of the guards rushed to the couple’s side as the lead guard called, “Captain Reiner? Princess Blossom? Are you all right?”
Slowly the two struggled to pick themselves up as Princess Blossom started to speak, “R-Reiner… I… I remember now… I remember everything. That day… in the cherry grove, I remember it all.” She looked at Reiner, “You… you tried to save me… but failed… then… then…” tears began rolling down her face, “I’m responsible… it was my fault for being there… after I fell… you were blamed… your father was executed… it’s my fault he died… it’s my fault everything bad happened to you that day… it’s my fault… you hate spring.” She started crying, “It’s all my fa-”

Reiner smiled as he reached towards her face and wiped away her tears, “It’s all right… I got over that a long time ago. It wasn’t your fault all that happened, it was your mother. She did it… she caused all the problems from then on. You didn’t do anything wrong.”
Princess Blossom shook her head, “No… that’s not true… I… I… I killed her.” She looked down in shame, “I murdered my own mother in cold blood… just… just like she would. I’m no different than her… I… I don’t deserve to be your princess… I don’t even deserve your kindness.”
Reiner shook his head, “Princess… I… I know…” The princess gave him a shocked look as he continued, “The doctor and I examined Queen Rose after her passing and… we discovered her cause of death. It was poison… from the Moon Weed plant.”
Princess Blossom was surprised, “What?... but… why didn’t you say anything.”
Reiner replied, “We knew you were the only one who made contact with her during her illness, so we knew you had to be responsible. And since the queen was a tyrant, we felt it would be better if the kingdom believed her illness killed her, and nothing else.”

Zeil approached and replied, “The Moon weed may kill silently with sleep then death, but it’s easy to identify since it leaves its victim’s pupils to turn white like a full moon, hence the moon weed.”
As Princess Blossom and Reiner looked at Zeil, Reiner remembered something, “Wait a second… Zeil… What exactly happened to us back there? What was all that wind and magic?”
Zeil smiled in embarrassment, “Right… well, that was a curse… a weak one… but a curse none-the-less.”
“Weak?... WEAK!?! Just look at this place! The throne room is destroyed and both the princess and I were nearly killed! You better start explaining!!!”
Zeil waved downward as he tried to calm Reiner down, “Easy now… no need to shout, I’d be happy to explain.” He looked at Princess Blossom, “Princess, you said you remember everything now right? What is the very next memory you had after you fell out of the tree?”
Princess Blossom thought to herself, “Well, I awoke after a day and found myself in the castle infirmary.”

Reiner was confused, “A day? But… the queen said you were unconscious for a number of months.”
Zeil nodded, “Let me guess… after you woke up, you told your mother about Reiner. Using mainly positive words to describe your day with him right?”
Princess Blossom was confused as she replied, “Yes… but… how did you?...”
Zeil replied with a quote, “Should the next in line Prince or Princess to the throne meet a favorable suiter prior to the age of marriage, a betrothal decree will then be established. Upon which, a date will be set on the eighteenth birthday of the eldest in the couple for both a royal wedding and coronation to establish both as the new king and Queen of Spring Haven, with no required consent from the parents of the suiter or the rising heir. Then, by law of decree, the new heir will usurp the throne and take place as King or Queen despite the ruling of the reigning monarch.”
Reiner was confused, “What?”
Zeil reached into his saddlebag and pulled out the book with the royal law as he replied, “It’s all right here… in short, all you two had to do when you met was say that you two were in love, and the queen can kiss her throne goodbye as soon as one of you turned eighteen. However… should one of you forget the other then…”

Zeil gave them a moment to figure it out as Reiner replied with a shocked expression, “Then… a marriage wouldn’t be set… and the queen could ensure her long reign.”
Zeil nodded, “Exactly… Sometime after the princess woke, the queen realized that Princess Blossom could hold some feelings for you, and because of that, she was worried you would take her throne from her. So, she decided to cast a spell to remove you from her memories, one that would repeat itself every time you were reminded of him.”
Princess Blossom replied, “And… that’s what caused this?”
Zeil shook his head, “Well yes and no… a ponies mind is like a rope. It’s made up of many strands that can be twisted, tied and pulled all day without any problems, but if you tamper with it, say cut a few strands in its weave, then it will slowly fray with the strain of regular activities. Usually this would take only a few days to cause severe emotional damage, but since the queen’s spell was only very slight memory removal, it took a number of years to take full effect.”

Reiner remembered something, “Like that issue you faced in Equestria with that guard. What was his name?... Shining something?”
Zeil nodded, “Exactly, because I’ve notices the shift in emotions caused by this particular curse, I was able to identify it when I sensed it in Princess Blossom.” He looked at Princess Blossom, “Then, I noticed that the spell she casted kept reactivating every time your feelings for Reiner returned. Which was why you fainted at the cherry grove. The spell had to hit you hard to stop those memories from returning and it took a toll on your consciousness.”
Princess Blossom was confused, “So… you say my emotions shifted? That doesn’t seem so bad.”
Zeil shook his head, “Wrong, many don’t know that the difference between worry and suicidal despair isn’t that far off. The same can be said about annoyed, and murderous rage. Unstable emotions can be very dangerous to somepony or their family, but put a crown on that… and it can be deadly for an entire nation.”

Reiner thought to himself as he replied, “Well, that would explain why you seemed so unsure of yourself all the time… it could have been just your worry overreacting right?”
Zeil nodded, “That is true. Your meekness was probably caused by your fear to discourage your subjects’ approval.”
The princess replied with slight relief, “Then… my action to kill my mother was influence by this curse as well?”
Zeil shook his head, “Sadly… no… it may have helped you in your decision, however to poison somepony with a moon weed takes time and research. All of which would have been enough for your emotions to stabilize and make you change your mind. Sad to say… the decision to murder your mother was your own, and that alone is what allowed you to carry it out.”
Princess Blossom looked down in disappointment, “Then… I truly am like her…”

Zeil smiled as he shook his head, “Now I didn’t say that… You didn’t kill her for your own selfish needs or just to be queen. You killed her because you care for your subjects. I’ve only been here a few days, but in that time, I’ve noticed that everything you’ve done was for your subject’s wellbeing. You truly care for this kingdom and its residents. Since the queen was so heartless to them all, you decided to do what was best for them, buy removing her from the equation sort-of-speak.”
Reiner replied with a distrusting tone, “I don’t like the way you said that… speaking of which… what do you plan to do with this information now that you know the truth?”
Zeil smiled, “Monarchs kill each other all the time… I think I can forget I know this little truth on my own. It isn’t my business anyways… It’s not my kingdom.”
The guard’s in the room saluted as the lead guard spoke, “We didn’t hear it if you didn’t your majesty. We are loyal to the princess, and nopony else.”

Zeil smiled but before he could reply to their action, a loud boom was heard echoing through the throne room from the hole in the roof as Zeil looked at the storm that was now raining into the room and smiled. Though Zeil didn’t say anything, he didn’t have to as Reiner smiled and spoke, “Ah… so… now that the curse is lifted, it’s time for you to continue on your journey.”
Zeil smiled as he looked back at Reiner and nodded, “Since all is well now, I guess it is.”
Princess Blossom spoke in surprise, “What? Leave? Already? But… But…”
Zeil chuckled as he replied, “I would have left yesterday if not for your curse. I felt that since I knew what it was and how to fix it, it was best for me to deal with that first. Now… I really don’t have any reason to stay.”
Princess Blossom felt disappointed, “but… we owe you so much… and now we ca-”
Princess Blossom was silenced when Reiner put his hoof on her shoulder, shook his head, and smiled, “He has his own journey to finish princess. He can’t waste any more time here, when there isn’t any real reason to stay.”

Understanding his explanation, Princess Blossom smiled as Reiner approached her and stood beside her as he spoke, “Though I do agree, we owe you a lot Zeil… if there is anything we can do to help, just say the word.”
Zeil looked at the ruined throne room around them before replying, “Actually… we should probably call us even.”
Princess Blossom giggled as she replied, “Collateral damage aside, there has to be something we can do to at least try to make it up to yo- oh!”
Princess Blossom looked at Reiner as she spoke, “Captain? Do you still have that payment on you?”
Reiner remembered as he nodded, “Wait… your right.”
Reiner reached into his armor and pulled out a small pouch of coins as he handed it to Zeil and spoke, “This is payment for the supplies you purchased, it isn’t much but will you at least take this with you?”

Zeil looked at the pouch as he replied, “Sure… but… there is also one more thing you both can do for me.”
Princess Blossom smiled, “Yes? What is it?”
Zeil looked at her and smiled, “Princess… Take care of your subjects… become the queen this kingdom should have had before you.” He looked at Reiner, “And Captain… watch over your princess… you she needs you…”
“Now more than ever.”
Zeil smiled at Reiner’s finish to his sentence as Zeil replied, “Exactly.”
Reiner held his hoof out as he replied, “Thanks Zeil… for everything. When you get to Equestria, feel free to send us a letter. It will be nice to make the journey to visit a new kingdom… if anything… we can call it a chance to make an alliance.” He looked at Princess Blossom, “Right your majesty?”

Princess Blossom smiled and nodded as Zeil hoof-bumped Reiner’s extended hoof before replying, “Sure… and I’ll introduce you to Zecora personally.”
With that said, Zeil looked at Princess Blossom as he bowed slightly, “Your majesty… thank you for allowing me to stay, and… I misjudged you. A princess who can keep her emotions in control to keep her subjects happy, especially for as long as you have… is far stronger then I could possibly imagine.”
Princess Blossom smiled as she nodded, “Thank you for your kind words and your assistance Mr. Zeil. I hope we can meet again someday.”
Zeil smiled as he rose from his bow and trotted away from the two, “Well… thanks for everything. Good bye.”
As Zeil trotted towards the exit, Princess Blossom and Reiner watched Zeil approach the doors to leave the destroyed throne room before Princess Blossom called, “Wait… one more thing? How did you know I killed my mother if you didn’t see the body?”
Zeil smiled as he turned around and spoke “It was just a hunch… for the happiness of my subjects, I’d do the same.”

With nothing more to say, Zeil turned back to his path, put his hood up on his cloak and exited the throne room as Princess Blossom and Reiner stood side by side as the princess spoke, “A changeling who doesn’t steal love, who know how to use magic, and who will go out of his way to help an unknown princess from a kingdom that isn’t even his own. This world truly is amazing isn’t it? I only hope he succeeds in reaching his goal.”
Reiner nodded as he replied, “He will… he and I are a lot alike, and if I were him… then nothing would stop me.”
Princess Blossom smiled, “I’m glad… thanks to him, I can be a more forward princess who rules with both kindness, and still hold the courage to fight off any who would take advantage of that kindness. Speaking of which…”

She looked at one of the other guard’s, “Since the throne room is in disarray, we will be holding the ceremony in the city cathedral. Pass along the news and make curtain the kingdom knows that it will be this evening prior to sunset.”
The guard bowed and left to follow his orders as Reiner replied in confusion, “Ceremony?”
Princess Blossom smiled, “Of course… how else would you become King of Spring Haven.”
Reiner was shocked, “K-King!?!”
Princess Blossom smiled as she trotted away and spoke, “I think I’m going to enjoy being more forward with my actions. Hmm… King and Queen Reiner Blossom…” She blushed, “I see only a bright future for Spring Haven.”

Bk9/Ch3 Tribal Law and the Second Debt

Book 9 / Chapter 3
Tribal law and the Second Debt
(Year 5, Month 6, Day 16)

The large water buffalo rushed up the field as the two zebra hunters closed in from both sides. As they neared their targets, one of the zebras jumped into the air in an attempt to bring the spear with its fake blade down onto the buffalo’s back. Seeing the incoming hunter, the water buffalo slowed his speed enough so that when the zebra came down it would be closer to his head then his back. As the airborne hunter saw this, he tried to aim his fake weapon for the Buffalo’s neck instead, however as he lunged the spear downward, the cleaver water buffalo shifted his head to his right side so the weapon would miss his neck and fall between his neck and his right horn. When this happened the water buffalo grabbed the spear’s shaft with his teeth and swung his head, body, and all completely around as he flung the attached hunter across his front and slamming him into the other hunter as the collision knocked both of them out of commition. With no slow in his speed, the water buffalo finished his spin and continued down the field as he crossed the finish without either of the hunter’s still pursuing him.

As the buffalo crossed the finish, the giraffe ref called across the field, “FINISH CROSSED!!! POINT PREY!!!”
With that the second giraffe called, “Round five has ended and so concludes the run with the prey leading the score of three to two. We will take a brief rest and continue with the second run with the water buffalo in the current lead.”
As the spectators in the stands cheered, Zeil, Kante and both chiefs watched from the tower as Chief Tanak Laughed, “Looks like we are making a comeback today! Better watch Basarum my prey are ready for you this time!”
Chief Basarum nodded as he replied, “We got you yesterday and we aren’t far behind today. So don’t count us off just yet.”
Curious Zeil asked, “I know the hunter’s won yesterday, so if the prey win today then what?”
Kante replied, “Then we have a day three.”
Basarum added, “It’s not often that the Kiwinda ends with a draw, but when that happens a third day is added as a tie breaker.”

Zeil nodded, “Oh I get it… this is actually kinda fun. I didn’t think I would like it this much.”
Kante added, “Yea and it’s a shame the oracle isn’t here to watch with us. Especially since she is the one who invited us to view the second day from the tower.”
Basarum sighed, “Something tells me that she tricked me into this… but I guess it isn’t so bad.”
Chief Tanak patted Basarum on his back, “Oh just admit it! He may be an outsider, but this Zeil guy isn’t as bad as the rest.”
The group laughed at the statement as the giraffe announcer called, “Attention all, the next run will begin shortly. All participants move to the starting position!”
As that was called the hunters and prey moved to their starting positions as the group in the tower looked down at the field.

As the Kiwinda seemed to start back up, something felt odd to Zeil. The excitement of the competition was apparent and the spectators all around the field were cheering in exhilaration, but amongst them was one soul that wasn’t excited at all. In fact, this out of place aura Zeil felt was close, and uneasy. Curious, Zeil turned his head slightly to the back of the tower expecting it to maybe be the warrior that stood guard at the top of the stairs, but it wasn’t the guard at all, instead it was a lone zebra who stood at the top of the stairs, high enough to see all who were in the tower, but low enough to hide all but his head. Since he didn’t know what the Stallion was doing Zeil decided to act casual and wait. He could tell off bat that the Zebra wasn’t from the same tribe as Chief Basarum. While most of the zebra in the Northern Tribes wore neckwear of green and brownish glass and bone beads, this stranger wore only white and black bone beads while he had a white chalk like markings that covered the striped on his face making his face seem pale at first glance. This also made his entire body seem much more white then the Northern Tribe zebra.

At first Zeil assumed this was just a spectator hoping to get a peek at the Kiwinda from up high, but as Zeil watched the zebra out the corner of his eye, he noticed that even as the first prey exited the hut and started his round, that the strange zebra’s eyes were only fixated on Chief Basarum. Feeling that this wasn’t a good sign, Zeil continued to observe the zebra without bringing attention to himself as he occasionally looked to the field to give a reaction as if he were paying attention to the competition. Shortly after the first round began, the strange zebra made his move as he climbed up the remaining number of steps and rushed passed the guard. As Zeil saw this he realized the zebra had a spear in his hoof and was going for Basarum as Zeil reacted, “LOOK OUT!!!”
As that was yelled all eyes went to Zeil then to the attacker who was already too close to Chief Basarum to do anything as the assassin lunged his spear towards the surprised chief.

Luckily with Zeil watching his actions from the start, the fast changeling was able to intercept the spear as he grabbed the weapon under the blade and moved it off its original course. Then using what he learned years prior, Zeil used his other hoof to punch the shaft below the blade as the blade broke free of attacker’s control. With his spear now just a staff, the attacker was unable to do anything as Zeil swung his hoof around hitting the assassin in the side of his face and causing him to stumble back a few feet. Reacting out of impulse Kante stepped between Chief Basarum and the attacker as the assassin stumbled back from the hit he just took. Stunned, the attacker regained his senses as the guard in the tower charged him as he called, “YOU STOP!!!”
As the warrior charged at the southern zebra, the skilled assassin dodged the blade as he grabbed the shaft and used it to fling the guard over his shoulder and over the edge of the tower. As he guard fell, the assassin watched him land in the stands amongst the cheering spectators as Chief Tanak took the opportunity to take one massive swing at the distracted killer as he punched the zebra in his face knocking him to the tower floor and laying him out with a single blow.

Now too stunned to stand, the assassin tried to pick himself up as Chief Tanak put the smaller creature in a headlock as he lifted the struggling zebra up before speaking, “Alright now calm yourself down… you lost so might as well stallion up and admit defeat!”
As the large buffalo held the smaller assassin in place Chief Basarum approached Zeil who was still holding the spear blade as he spoke, “Mr. Zeil, I'll take that thank you.”
Nodding, Zeil gave the spear blade to Chief Basarum as the zebra chief continued, “Look over the edge… tell me if my warrior is alright.”
As Zeil did just that, Chief Basarum approached the detained assassin as he spoke, “It was a good attempt at my life… but it was a complete failer. You’re from the Southern Tribes aren’t you! Why did you try to kill me?”

The assassin glared at Basarum in anger before spitting in his general direction. Seeing that Basarum sighed, “Fine don’t tell me… I already know anyways.”
As the assassin wore himself out trying to free himself, he soon stopped struggling as Chief Tanak spoke, “He tried to kill you Basarum. So… what should we do with him?”
Chief Basarum looked him in the eye as he replied, “That depends…” He looked to Zeil as he asked, “Well? Is my guard alright?”
As Zeil looked to the stands two stories down he could see the spectators gathered around the guard’s body trying to check his injuries. However Zeil didn’t have to notice the guard wasn’t moving as he looked back to the chief and replied, “His aura is gone… he is dead.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “Very well…” he looked back to Chief Tanak, “You heard him…”
Chief Tanak nodded, “Yes and I bear witness.”

With that Chief Basarum approached the restrained zebra as he spoke, “You have anything to say for yourself?”
The constricted zebra glared at Chief Basarum one last time before spitting again this time in the chief’s face as Basarum barely flinched at the unwanted action. Wiping the spit from his face Basarum smiled “That’s a no then…”
with that said, Basarum looked to Chief Tanak as the large buffalo used his free hoof to grab the assassin’s mane and lift his head high. Then without hesitation, Chief Basarum approached the restrained warrior and ran the spear blade across the attacker’s throat with one quick motion as the lethal cut quickly ended the assassin’s life. Shocked by what he had seen, Zeil gave Basarum a surprised look as Chief Tanak released the lifeless zebra and let him fall to the floor as he sighed, “There the deed is done.”

Confused Zeil asked, “W-what… why… why did you just kill him?”
Both Chiefs gave Zeil an emotionless look as Chief Basarum replied, “He made an attempt at my life and in turn killed another. Tribal law dictated an eye for an eye. He murdered my warrior without warrant and without mercy. So… the law dictated he must pay the price. A life for a life.”
Before Zeil could reply Chief Tanak spoke, “He is a warrior of the Southern Tribe… you know what this means.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “I do… Chief Muji tried to have me killed.”
Chief Tanak spoke, “Should we assemble the chief’s? Hold him responsible for this?”
Chief Basarum shook his head, “Why bother… all he will do is blame it on the actions of a rebellious tribe’s colt and make an excuse that the warrior was an exile or something of the sort. All I need is you to bear witness should he try to claim that I unjustly killed his assassin.”

Still stunned, Zeil looked to the dead assassin as Basarum spoke, “What’s wrong Zeil? Never seen a dead body before?”
Zeil shook his head as he replied, “I just… never thought the tribes laws were like this.”
Chief Basarum nodded, “In order to keep peace, we must make our laws a little strict. That way, most would think twice before braking them. If you steal from another tribe you must return the item and have something taken in return. Steal again and we take your hoof from you. It can be strict and in a since cruel… but it is how we do things in the tribe… further more… it looks like the tribe owes you yet another life debt. If not for your actions. This assassin would have succeeded in his attempt. Perhaps my wife was right about inviting you.”
“Am I ever wrong?”

At that moment all eyes looked to the steps of the tower as the oracle approached the group as Kante rushed to the oracle and spoke, “Lady Zera… a warrior tri-“
Calming the frantic filly down Zera patted Kante’s head as she replied, “Its alright little sister… I know what happened, and it happened as I saw it before.” She looked to the group as she spoke seriously, “A son of the south will bid to slay the father of the north. Though with the presence of a meddler from afar, the endeavor will be in vein.” She smiled playfully, “See, I saw this coming a mile away.”
Zeil was confused, “Wait… you knew this would happen?... why didn’t you say anything?”
Zera replied as she trotted to the body of the dead assassin, “It wouldn’t have changed anything… though I knew that if I didn’t suggest my husband in inviting you to attend, then you most likely wouldn’t have been here to save him.”
As she examined the body Basarum nodded, “True, if you didn’t suggest it, I wouldn’t have allowed him in this tower, and I would probably be dead right now.”

The mare looked over the corpse, “So he really is from the Southern Tribes… seems my would be brother-in-law is still holding a grudge.”
Zeil tried to stay on subject, “So… you used me as a body guard to protect the chief?”
Zera looked back to Zeil as she smiled playfully, “Yes I did… why?”
Surprised of how nonchalantly she answered, Zeil replied, “Well… I um…”
Lady Zera continued, “Don’t act as if you didn’t enjoy yourself. To be honest, this helped us both.”
Zeil was confused, “What do you mean, helped us both?”
Chief Basarum sighed in disappointment as he replied, “It means now, we owe you two debts… and… I suppose you’ve earned my temporary trust, despite my personal opinion of you.” He straitened his stance and spoke as a chief, “Zeil, twice you have come to the aid of my tribe, and twice you saved a life. Now that I have seen the type of changeling you are, I can trust you enough to hear your reason for your request. However, that doesn’t mean I will accept you as a brother here. In fact, the only reason I'm allowing this chance, is to pay back one of the two debt that our tribe owes you.”

Zera looked to her husband as she replied, “That seems heartless isn’t it? He did save your life, why not agree to listen to him and offer two payments? It’s only fair.”
Chief Basarum replied with distain, “It’s a curtesy that I'm even agreeing to meet with an outsider alone in the first place. I can't forgive them for Zee Zee, not even after being saved by one.”
Lady Zera sighed in disappointment as she replied, “Zee Zee is another matter entirely, I only think your being unreasonable. Esp-”
“Agreed.”
Both Zera and Chief Basarum looked to Zeil as he continued, “If that’s all it takes, then I accept. I never wanted you to be in debt to me to begin with, so this just make it easier than trying to think of something else I could want from the tribe.”
Taking the opportunity Chief Basarum nodded, “Very well… meet me at the temple steps in an hour’s time I will be there waiting. But if you are not there at that time. You will not get a second chance.”
Zeil nodded, “Alright, I'll be there then.”

Chief Basarum turned towards the tower’s stairs as he replied, “Very well, Bring with you whatever you see the need to convince me, you won't get this chance twice.” He looked at Chief Tanak, “Sorry to cut this short. I'll be sure to hear all about the results of the Kiwinda in the morning. Will you be leaving early tomorrow?”
Chief Tanak shook his head, “It was my intention, but if the games end with a third day I'll still be here. If anything I’ll still drop in to check on you before I leave tomorrow.”
Chief Basarum smiled, “Very well, I will see you tomorrow then.” He turned towards the stairs and started down before pausing as he looked back, “oh… and Sister Kante?”
The filly nodded, “Yes Chief?”
Chief Basarum replied, “Good job…”
Though none saw it, Chief Basarum gave a small half smile as he turned back to the steppes and preceded to leave the tower. Kante could only smile with pride in her recognition as Lady Zera sighed as she looked to Zeil, “I must apologies for my husband yet again. I was hoping he would seem more grateful for your actions Mr. Zeil. But I'm afraid his distrust in outsiders continues to cloud his manners.”

Zeil smiled as he waved his hoof dismissively, “Don’t worry about it lady oracle. It’s been a week so I'm used to it by now. But… can I ask, what is it that made him distrust outsiders? Something about a… Zee Zee?”
Zera’s expression sank as she replied, “Our daughter… what happened to her, well, she is no longer with us. And though they are only partially at fault, My husband puts full blame on all outsiders. Lets… not discuss this any further.”
Zeil felt he was leading towards a bad subject as she replied, “Oh… well… then that’s all I need to hear. I… am sorry for your loss.”
As Zeil said that, he felt a little confused by the oracle’s response, her emotions didn’t seem in anyway sad, but she still liked the sentiment as she smiled, “Thank you Zeil, I appreciate that.”
Chief Tanak nodded as he added, “I guess it’s true what they said about you Sir Zeil… you are a noble stallion worthy of the title.”

Zeil was confused, “Wait… how did you kn-“
“Sir Zeil?”
Chief Tanak looked to Kante as he replied to her response, “Yep, I'm surprised he didn’t mention it. Zeil here is a knight from a faraway land. Seems he made an impression on the city of Zebabwee when he arrived in Zebrica. Was referred to as Sir Zeil by Princess Skystar of the Hippogriff Kingdom.”
Zeil asked, “How did you hear about that?”
Zera smiled, “Chief Tanak is in charge of the Outer Tribes. In all there are about twenty tribes and five cities under his protection. He speaks for them and the ponies, buffalo, giraffe and gazelle that live amongst them.”
Chief Tanak rubbed his head in embarrassment, “Well I appoint the leaders of those tribes, but when speaking of national matters I represent the Outer Tribes as a whole.”
Zera looked to Zeil as she spoke, “You’re a knight in shining armor then? No wonder Zecora fell for you, never saw her for having a princess complex. Funny to think that the stranger treated as a peasant would actualy be a noble knight of Equestria.”

Chief Tanak was surprised as he replied, “Wait a sec? you mean to tell me that this outsider is in love with little Ze-“
Zera interrupted, “Yes, seems Zecora was wooed by Zeil here back in Equestria… and a knight to say the least.”
Zeil rubbed his head in embarrassment, “Well, I wasn’t a knight when we fell in love. And… I'm not a knight of Equestria.”
Chief Tanak nodded, “That’s right, you’re a knight of the Hippogriff Kingdom right? And that move you did… if I’m not wrong, that was a move learned only by masters of the Ibex temple in the Far East. For an outsider on Basarum’s bad side you sure do get around.”
Zeil rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment as he replied, “Well, it has been a long journey.”
Zera smiled, “And nearing its end I would suspect?”
Zeil shook his head, “Not until I return to Zecora. But I'm not going back till I learn magic from the chief.”

At that moment one of the giraffe who was announcing the competition looked into the tower as he spoke, “Um… excuse me, chief, lady oracle… I know that the attempted assassination caused a stall in the competition but, if you will allow it. We will hold a brief break to clean up the bodies before proceeding.”
Chief Tanak nodded as he replied, “Sounds good to me, Chief Basarum has a meeting to attend so he won't be here for the remainder of the competition.” He looked at Zeil, “Speaking of which, don’t you have to get ready?”
Zeil nodded, “I do actually, I need to get my saddlebag from the village. So I guess I'll see you tomorrow before you leave. I want to hear the score for today’s Kiwinda. I'm rooting for the prey.”
Chief Tanak Laughed out loud, “As am I, I'll be sure to remember the details on how we trump the rest of the event. That way we can celebrate properly.”
Zeil laughed, “I'll hold you too it then. Kante, stay with Chief Tanak.”
Kante nodded, “Of course Brother Zeil. I will do as I'm told.”

With that Zeil turned away and trotted down the stairs of the tower as Zera looked to Kante, “Well, well, you two have become close. And did I hear you call him brother? Better not let the chief hear you say that.”
Kante blushed slightly, “Well… he was the one who saved me from the jaguar. I feel like I owe him more than just my life. He has helped around the village and as far as we are all concerned he is a brother to the tribe.”
Zera nodded, “Yes, I know. I have seen his actions and recognize his assistance. Zeil has been a great help to the tribe and though my husband doesn’t see it. Or more accurately he refuses to acknowledge it. A strong warrior like him is sure to be a valuable asset to the tribe.”
Kante smiled, “I saw it the moment I met him. Brother Zeil is a skilled warrior with a lot of experience in fighting.”
Zera smiled sinisterly, “And I noticed, that you seem to be better experienced since he arrived as well.”
Chief Tanak smiled, “That’s right, as soon as the fighting started here in this tower, you stepped between the chief and the assassin without order, and unarmed at that.”
Blushing in embarrassment, Kante replied, “Well… it’s up to the tribe to protect the Chief, and brother Zeil says that even the weakest warriors can play a role in just that.”

Less than an hour later, Zeil approached the Temple in the center of the western tribe village wearing his cloak and saddlebag. As he approached, a guard stood waiting as he spoke, “Zeil… the chief has been expecting you… follow me.”
Zeil nodded, but was confused when the guard didn’t climb the stairs but instead started trotting along the base of the temple as he led Zeil to a small doorway on the side of the stone structure. After being led to that doorway, the guard gave Zeil a torch as he spoke, “Follow the stairs downward. The chief awaits you below. And be mindful, the chief doesn’t trust you in the slight, so watch how you speak to him.”
As Zeil took the torch he asked, “What about you? What do you think of me?”
The guard smiled, “Kante’s father was my best friend. She may be young, reckless and disobedient to the chief’s words, but she is a good filly, with a keen head on her shoulders, and a warrior’s heart. If she trusts you as much as she does, then it’s got to be for a good reason.”
Zeil smiled, “Thanks.”
The guard nodded back, “Thank you, for saving both Kante and the chief.”
That said, the guard took up his post to the side of the doorway as Zeil took the torch as he went down into the darkened depths of the seemingly ancient temple.

After reaching the bottom of the temple, Zeil found himself standing in a small room with a large table sitting in the center as Chief Basarum sat at the head of the table as he spoke, “Good, you mad it… Take a seat then we can get started.”
As Zeil sat down and placed the torch in a stand on the center of the table as he noticed a guard standing in the corner of the room. Ignoring this, Chief Basarum spoke, “Well, you wanted to tell me why you needed to learn magic from me… so… speak your peace.”
Zeil gestured to the guard as he spoke, “I told you I can't… not with him here.”
Chief Basarum gave Zeil a distrusting look, “You are sure then… I can't have a single warrior present…”
Zeil nodded, “None can hear what I have to say. Only you and me.”
Chief Basarum replied, “Is it really that important?”
Zeil reached into his saddlebag and pulled out the tome of the mage and replied, “It is… if you know what this is.”
As Zeil showed Basarum the tome, Chief Basarum’s eyes widened for a second before turning to his guard and speaking in anger, “Leave us…”

Although the lone guard wanted to ask why, he could tell that the chief seemed angry as he quickly trotted out of the room as fast as he could. After the guard was gone Chief Basarum narrowed his angry expression towards Zeil as he spoked, “You… where did you get this.”
Zeil could sense his anger plainly as he replied, “It was given to me.”
“By whom…”
Zeil replied as calmly as he could, “By the Mage of Zebrica.”
Chief Basarum replied just as Zeil’s sentence ended, “Liar… Magi… I mean the mage is dead. I know this for a fact.”
Zeil nodded, “He may be… but his successor wasn’t. He is the one who gave me this book.”
Chief Basarum replied in confusion and anger, “Successor… there is no such zebra. The mage died before he could complete his training. He wasn’t able to choose a successor.”

Zeil sighed as he continued to calmly reply, “Then who else could have given me this… and… Chosen me to become the next ma-”
Chief Basarum stood in anger as he yelled, “I REFUSE TO BELIEVE THAT! Magi is dead and I will not allow you to insult him further. Take this Fake and leave my village at once!”
Zeil stood up, “You’re going to kick me out, without even allowing me to explain?”
“I don’t need you too. The last Mage of Zebrica is dead! I know it myself because he was a good stallion!”
Zeil nodded, “So, you knew him?”
Chief Basarum sighed as he sat back down and replied, “The last mage was a stallion from the Southern Tribes named Magi. When he was chosen by the mage before him, he was told to come here and learn magic from my father. He was a good stallion who treated me like a little brother. At the time he was also betrothed to my wife. I often think he would have made a better husband then I. But… When he faced his final task… he never returned. The day he left, my wife the oracle was in tears… because she saw nothing of him when she looked into her own future. Meaning…. He had no future. Years later, when I was set to become chief for the Northern Tribes, she was betrothed to me and… the rest is history.” He stood back up and placed the tip of his hoof on the book as he continued, “So you see, this isn’t the Tome of the Mage and you a-”

Before he could finish, the text and symbols on the cover of the ancient book started shuffling themselves around as Chief Basarum took his hoof from the top of the book and stepped back, “What? It can't be…”
Seeing that the angry chief was now calm enough to listen, Zeil sat down as he replied, “It is… this is the real Tome of the Mage.”
Chief Basarum picked up the book and started shuffling through the pages, “But… it’s not possible… the tome is here… in this temple where it was left twenty years ago. How… I mean… where did you get this?”
Zeil sighed as he replied, “It was given to me by a cloaked zebra about two years ago. He claimed that he was the mage and… passed this onto me before using a spell to kill himself.”
After skimming through the pages Basarum looked at the final page in the book as he looked over the row of text that seemed to be arranged on the page as if it were a list. As he ran his hoof at the second from the last word he spike, “Magi… this is his name… I remember the day it appeared here signifying that he was ready to face the final trial… right after he left… and never returned. This next name… I can't read… only the mage can read these symbols.” He laid the book down on the table as he spoke, “Tell me… tell me everything. How you came across this book, who gave it to you and what happened that convinces you that he was the true mage of Zebrica.”
Although he was happy the chief was finally willing to listen to him, Zeil held back his smile as he started to tell the tale, “About two years ago, outside of the Wooden Pergola Forest… I came across an old Zebra with a terrifying aura.”

From there, Zeil told the story. He talked about the mage, his spells, Xemnes and the undead creatures that tried to kill him, he even told about the all three forbidden spells used to bring the creatures to life, to kill the creatures, and to kill both the one responsible for the disaster and himself. Zeil told the story to such detail that the chief could have easily placed himself in the very chapel that Xemnes died in and the danger that took place moments before the undead griffin turned to dust. As soon as Zeil finished telling the story he silenced himself as Chief Basarum paced his mind by lifting the cover of the leather book, letting it fall onto the first page and repeating the action as he spoke, “So… then what?”
Zeil replied, “That’s it… that’s the whole story.” he reached into his saddlebag and pulled out the letter from the mage as he handed it to the chief and spoke, “This is what he left me… and this is all the proof I feel I need to be convinced.”
Chief Basarum looked at the letter and read through it before laying it down and speaking, “And the picture… you said there was a picture of this stallion, Zecora and a filly… where is that?”
Zeil replied, “I buried it with him… it would be better proof, but I could tell that something that precious, would be better to rest with him. At least that what I would want.”
Chief Basarum sat back in his chair as he sighed, “I see…”

Zeil took a few seconds to let the chief process the information before speaking again, “So… that’s my reasoning. He says that you are the enchanter of light and that you must be the one to teach me.”
Chief Basarum thought to himself as he replied, “So it would seem, I'll be honest, I doubt that I am this enchanter that is spoken of in this letter, but then again. It is the previous mage who decides who the current enchanter of light is… and it is said that only the previous mage can choose him and no others to teach the next mage. But…”
Zeil sat with unease, “But?”
Chief Basarum stood up as he replied, “This will take a matter far higher then myself to decide. So in the meantime.” He looked at the doorway and yelled, “GAURDS!”
As that was said three warriors entered the chamber as one spoke, “What is if chief? Is the outsider posing a problem?”
The guards gave Zeil an untrusting look as Chief Basarum approached them and replied, “Never mind that, a situation of importance has presented itself.” He pointed at the first guard, “You get a runner and have him depart at once to the other tribes! All chiefs from the south, east, and western tribes need to come here at once. I'm calling an emergency Assembly of the Chiefs.”
The guard was shocked, “You’re assembling the chiefs? Should they ask, what should I say is the reason?”
Chief Basarum replied, “All you should say is that it is a future matter of all our tribes. The rest will be explained upon their arrival.”
The warrior nodded, “Understood chief, I'll send a runner at once.”
“Send three, I want this assembly to take place in the morning.”
The warrior turned to the door, “Understood chief I'll do as told at once.”

After that guard was gone Chief Basarum turned to the next, “You, go to the Kiwinda and inform Chief Tanak of this meeting. Tell him it’s about Zeil and I'll expect him here in the morning as well as his representatives of all races.”
The Guard nodded as he too turned to leave, “Yes Chief at once.”
Then the Zebrican chief looked to the last guard as he spoke, “And you…” he turned to Zeil and pointed, “Subdue him at once!”
Zeil was shocked by what he heard but before he could respond, the warrior tackled Zeil to the ground and held him in place as Zeil spoke, “What? Chief what are you doing?”
Chief Rafi spoke with a serious tone, “Until we have our meeting tomorrow, you will be restrained and held in the temple. Whether your story is true or not, you still spoke of the mage and all three of the most forbidden spells in existence. You will be held in a cell until we decide what to do with you. If the other tribes consider you truthful, then I will release you and teach you as you request. But if you are lying… then you will be condemned to death. And trust me… no amount of debt will be able to spare you of the crime you just committed.” He looked to the guard, ‘Take him away! But leave the book!”
Knowing that struggling would only make things worse, Zeil decided to do as he was told as the guard dragged him away and placed him in a cell further into the temple’s ancient corridor.

Bk15/Ch1 The Final Change Pt1

Bk15/Ch1
The Final Change Pt1

(Year 11, Month 0, Day 01)
(1 year later)

Waking to the sounds of working sailors on the deck above, Zeil opened his eyes as he looked around the crew’s quarters of the slightly creaking ship. As he looked around, he could feel Zecora weight firmly placed against him by the hanging hammock they both were sleeping in. As he looked to the sleeping mare he couldn’t help but smile at the sight as he gently shifted her unkempt mane from over her face, kissed her cheek, then used a ceiling rafter to carefully pull himself out of the hammock without waking her. As soon as he was out of the hammock Zeil trotted to a nearby porthole as he looked out into the endless sky of clouds around them. Just then he heard a call from above, “Hurry up scallywags! We just entered the leviathan sea so you better be on your best behavior!”

Hearing the call from the captain above, Zeil approached his hanging saddlebag and cloak as he put them on then trotted upstairs onto the main deck. As soon as he came topside, all Zeil could see was that massive ballonet that was suspending the large airship above, and the large number of avian pirates that manned the deck as he took the time to look around before being approached, “Morning lad, did you and your lass sleep well?”
Zeil turned to Powder Keg as the sailor approached with Zeil replying, “Morning Mr Keg, we did. Airships seem to feel a lot softer to sleep in as opposed to sea ships.”

Powder Keg nodded, “aye they are, though I'm still getting used to this a bit. Replacing Sails with a massive balloon was the easy part, it’s the fear of crashing into the sea I'm still having trouble with.”
Zeil smiled, “I'm sure it is.”
He pointed towards the helm, “By the way, Captain would like a word. She’s on the higher deck.”
Zeil smiled as he nodded, “Sure… by the way. Thanks for getting me this ride to Home.”
Powder Keg smiled as he nodded, “Anything for a former Crewmate.”
Zeil smiled, “That said, you know you’re invited to the wedding. If captain Sail were here he and the rest of the crew would be honored guests.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Much obliged, but we have to be on our way. The sea calls and we must answer.”
Zeil chuckled, “You mean sky?”
Powder Keg smiled, “Aye…of course. When you get ashore. Say hi to Miss Melody for me.”
Zeil was confused, “Melody?”
He smiled, “You’ll know here once ya see her, or if anything you’ll recognize her authoritative attitude. Kinda hard to miss.”
Smiling, Zeil reached out and bro-hoofed the Sailor as he nodded, “Then I'll pass it along. Thanks Mr Keg.”
The two then turned away with Powder Keg moving to see to his duties, and Zeil trotting to the aft castle where the Captain was waiting.

As Zeil reached the higher deck of the airship, he approached the tall avian parrot pirate that was overlooking her ship as he spoke, “Captain Ceano?”
The green and white pirate nodded, “Mage Zeil… how was your sleep?”
He smiled, “Peaceful, thanks.”
She nodded, “and your Bride to be?”
“Still resting. I didn’t see the need to wake her.”
The captain nodded as she looked back over her ship, “Good… Good…”
Feeling that there was more, Zeil asked, “is there something you wanted to talk to me about?”
She nodded as she sighed, “Yes… I’ve… hesitated about it, but since we will be arriving soon, I want to ask before it’s too late… About, Captain Sail.”
Zeil smiled as he looked over the ship and replied, “Ah… I see.”
She braced herself, “I’ve asked Powder Keg about this numerous times, but I wanted to ask you too. How… did he die?”
Zeil chuckled as he replied, “to use his words, standing at the helm of his ship with the cannons loaded ready to fight his way down the river Styx.”
Captain Ceano smiled at the words as she nodded, “Good… if there is anything he deserved, it’s to go out like a true captain.”

Feeling the combination of sadness and relief in her emotions Zeil asked, “Were you two?...”
Seeing where the question was going Captain Ceano shook her head, “Oh… no no, Captain Sail was like an older brother to me, nothing more. In fact I was just a hatchling when he first arrived at Pirate Cove. Back then I always written all sea pirates as wannabes. But when I met him, cocky and betting to take Iron Hoof’s head within the month. I finally saw what a true pirate was. Now, Sea or sky. He is, was, and will always be the best pirate this world has ever known.”
Zeil smiled as he replied, “I second that.”
“CAPTAIN! Changeling off the port side!”
As that was called, Captain Ceano and Zeil looked out the left side of the airship to see a small group of almost twenty reformed changelings flying in the same direction as the airship. Seeing that most were guards, Zeil smiled as he asked, “Captain? Permission to allow a few to board?”
Captain Ceano was unsure but she nodded as she replied, “If they are friends of yours, then I see no harm in it.”
Zeil nodded, “You have a way to signal them?”

Captain Ceano pulled a whistle from her coat pocket as she tossed it to Zeil and replied, “This should work.”
Catching the whistle, Zeil nodded before turning to the swarm and blowing the whistle as the loud noise echoed into the distance causing the small swarm to hesitate, before shifting its direction to fly towards the ship. As the small group of reformed changelings approached, only two tallest changelings landed on the ship. As soon as the two landed, the taller pink colored changeling looked to Zeil as she smiled, “Sir Zeil… or… should I call you mage Zeil. It’s good to see you again after all this time.”
Zeil bowed his head slightly as he replied, “Queen Mira of the Black Sands, it is good to see you, despite the tenseness of our last encounter.”
The Queen nodded, “Yes well… I hope you can forgive me for my ignorance. I'm afraid my worry of losing face to my swarm enticed me t-“
Zeil stopped her, “Water under the bridge your majesty. All is forgiven and forgotten.” He looked to the drone standing next to her, “Apex… good to see you too brother.”
Apex nodded but felt it best if he remained silent as Princess Mira spoke, “You will be happy to hear that we Laid Sir Sonic to rest properly. Under the apple tree that you created no-less. Now he is a memorial and an example of what all changelings should strive to be. Drone or worker, he was loyal to the end.”

Zeil nodded as he looked at her reformed appearance, “I see, and is it he that allowed you to become reformed as well?”
She shook her head, “Actually it was the example you left. You risked your life and your lineage for the sake of one you loved. After I realized your devotion, I became reformed, and soon the swarm followed. You inspired us to be better then what we once were, and thanks to that, we were able to revitalize the Marble Oasis. Now there is a safe city in the land of the black sand that all are welcome in. Changeling, pony, Zebra, it is a city for all.”
Zeil smiled, “it’s not the first, but I have high hopes for it none the less.”
“Zeil?”
Hearing the voice, Zeil and Princess Mira looked towards the stairs as Zecora stepped onto the top deck as she spoke, “With the whistle sound and your absence to add, I awoke with her here… should I be mad?”

Queen Mira felt slightly uneasy as Zeil chuckled, “Don’t joke like that, Queen Mira doesn’t know your sense of humor like I do.”
Zecora smiled pleasantly as Zeil looked to the queen as he spoke, “Queen Mira, I would like to introduce you to Zecora… My fiancé.”
Queen Mira smiled as she replied, “Zecora, it’s an honor to finally put a face to the name. Seeing Zeil so determined to begin his decade long journey for you, was unsettling. But now that I see you in person, I understand why.”
Zecora smiled as she replied, “Queen of the changelings, you flatter me to say. I'm happy you can attend such a wonderful day.”
Princess Mira Smile, “I will admit, since Sir Zeil and I parted on adverse circumstances. I assumed he wanted nothing more to do with me or my swarm. So when I saw the invitation to attend your wedding, I felt it an insult to decline such a prestigious request. After all, it is he that saved my swarm from falling to our own naiveté. Thanks to him, we were able to open our hearts to a better future for ou…”

All of a sudden, Queen Mira’s eyes widened to an approaching aura as the rest of the changelings in the area sensed the same aura, as they immediately reacted with Apex giving his order, “SWARM PROTECT THE QUEEN!!!”
Reacting, the group of changeling guards landed around Queen Mira as they all readied their stance for an attack from any direction. Apex pointed his spear at the closest threat as he demanded, “YOU! What is this? Whad did you have planned for the Queen!”
Zeil felt irritated as he found himself looking down the shaft of Apex’s spear as he spoke, “Though I know what that aura your feeling is, I fail to see how I'm to blame for it.”
Confused by what was happening on the main deck, Captain Ceano called, “Mage Zeil? What is going on down th-“
“CAPTAIN!”

The crew looked to Powder Keg who was holding onto the Jacob’s ladder and looking at the sea below and called, “There is a whirlpool forming below… I think, we are about to be visited by the lord of the sea.”
Captain Ceano was surprised, “really? I’ve been over these waters many times before and never once saw him. What’s so different about this time?”
Zeil replied, “He senses me… I'll handle this.”
Zeil turned towards the stem of the ship as Zecora stopped him by grabbing his arm, “Zeil… what are you going t-“
Zeil smiled as he placed his hoof on hers, “don’t worry Zecora, he isn’t a threat to us. He just senses me and will probably have questions.”
Trusting him, Zecora released his arm as Zeil trotted to the front of the ship then preceded to climb onto the stem mast as he trotted to its edge before looking down the sea below as he saw clearly the massive whirlpool that was swirling at the surface of the sea.

As Zeil looked down at the potential visitor, Powder Keg Called to the captain, “It would be a good idea to prepare to be seen by him! Anyone bearing a weapon, I would suggest putting it away! Stay clear of the cannon and captain, you may want to stand at the helm of the ship.”
Apex gave him a distrustful look, “You want us to lower our weapons? Give me a good reason why I should listen to an unknown sky sailor like you?”
Powder Keg replied, “We are talkin’ about the very god of these seas, the last of the Titans. Being the last of the great deities he is understandably cautious about mortals wielding weapons. As for the captain standing at the helm, he respects a captain that pilots his own ship. Its just the way he is.”
Apex taped his spear on the deck, “Not good enough. I won't disarm myself in the presence of the Queen.”
“Then Get off my ship!” Everyone looked to Captain Ceano as she continued, “Powder Keg is the only one on this ship to stand before this titan, threaten him, and live to tell the tale. He and his crew are respected more on this ship then any royal ever could be. So if you won’t disarm yourself, then leave.”

Apex became angry, “How dare y-“
“Lower your weapons, all of you!”
Apex looked to his queen, “Your majesty?”
Queen Mira replied, “Sir Zeil told us that there is no reason to be afraid… and.. I believe him. Lower your weapons and heed the sailor’s warning. We have no hope if the titan chooses to attack us, so it’s best we cooperate.”
Although he didn’t like it, Apex nodded in agreement while he and his soldiers lowered their weapons as all attention turned to Zeil who still stood at the furthest stem of the airship. Moments later a massive waterspout formed at the center of the large whirlpool as the waterspout shot upwards climbing as high as the airship as all attention soon centered on the unusual weather phenomenon.

Looking into the waterspout, the ship grew silent as a shadow of something inside could be seen mere moments before the waterspout exploded outwards filling the air with a thick mist, which soon solidified into snow as it fell upon the airship. As the snow fell gently on the ship, no one paid it any mind as what caught all attention on board was the massive sea serpent which remained after the waterspout dispersed. The serpent wasn’t like any normal sea serpent, rather than resembling a dragon snout on its fact, this creature had a long sharp beak, then there were the two sets of massive wings on its back, giving the large creature the power of flight, which was barley used in this case, since the large serpent was so long that even from this height, the tip of the creature’s tail was still submerged in the water below. As everyone on the ship stared at the titan in complete shock, Zeil stood with no concern on his face as the massive creature lowered himself to be eye level with the ship’s deck. As he looked across the vessel’s deck, His eyes narrowed at the ship’s captain, then to the Changeling Queen. With the creature looking in their directions, Apex, and his soldiers slowly placed their weapons on the ground and stepped away as the creature smiled slightly at their actions before finally narrowing his eyes on Zeil as the massive titan spoke, “Changeling… you stand before me, with the appearance of a zebra and a great power within you. Are you aware of it?”
Zeil nodded, “I am…”
The titan nodded, “If so… what do you intend to do with it? This power that defies your understanding.”

Zeil spoke with authority, “I understand it fully, and I intend to do as what it was meant for. I like its bearer before me, will maintain balance in this world.”
The titan smiled, “I see… and, if you know the bearer before you… then can I assume you know of his… Sin?”
Zeil nodded, “I do… in fact I hold memories of his, before and after that day… but, since we are in company of others, it’s best we keep that between us.”
The leviathan nodded, “Then… I wish to ask, did Lucifer. My Brother… douse he resent me or our siblings? Does he hate us for what we did to him?”
Zeil smiled, “It was partially his idea too. Isabella was his light, but since he was the one to dispose of her, he brought imbalance to himself. Had he remained amongst mortals, he would have brought despair to the world around him. You did the right thing, and for it, he was happy. Just as he is happy now, to see that his brother still lives despite being the last titan in existence.”

The leviathan nodded, “Then, I am glad. As for the rest, do you know where their power resided?”
Zeil nodded, “The titans? I do. The power of the King and Queen reside in their daughters, Princess Luna and Celestia. Formally of Eden, but now of Equestria. Raiden’s power was passed to the Pegasus who slayed him, and then gifted to the pegasi race. Though only one at a time caries his true power, it is still within them to control storms. As for Infernus, Her power was crystalized in a Ruby. Which is now wielded by the dragon empress. They don’t use it however, instead it is only coveted as a trophy. Probably due to lack of interest.”
Leviathan nodded, “I see… what is your name?”

Zeil replied, “I am Mage Zeil. Mage of Zebrica and well… too many titles to say so let’s just leave it at that.”
The Leviathan nodded, “Than… I thank you Mage Zeil. For bearing my brother’s power responsibly, for looking into my family promptly, and for informing me of their fate. You and those aboard your ship are welcomed in the Leviathan Sea. And I wish you safe travels to Home.”
Zeil smiled, “The pleasure is mine… Brother.”
The leviathan could only smile before flapping his wings once with enough force to throw himself higher in the air as he arced over the airship, clearing its ballonet as well as the rest of the ship, before spiraling down and diving into the sea as the massive splash left behind by the great titan solidified into an iceberg that remained on the sea’s surface long after the titan vanished into the waves.

After the titan vanished into the sea, Zeil stepped down from the airship’s stem as he trotted towards Zecora as Captain Ceano approached with Zeil smiling, “As I said Captain. I got this. You should have a clear course to Home from here.”
Still shocked at what she witnessed, Captain Ceano spoke, “M-mage Zeil? Exactly… who are yo-“
“CAPTAIN!”
Reacting out of frustration, the captain looked at the sailor who called as she spoke in irritation, “What now? What else is approaching us out of nowhere?”
The sailor hesitated at her frustration for a few seconds before pointing down to the sea ahead of them, “Um…. Home… We are here Captain.”
She looked into the distance as she replied, “Oh… well…” she called out loud, Then make ready for port!”
As the crew started preparing the ship for landing, Queen Mira spoke, “I guess I should take my leave from here. Mage Zeil, I thank you again for your invitation. And Miss Zecora? It was an honor to meet you.”
Zecora nodded in an accepting manner as Zeil spoke, “We can speak more on the ground.”
The queen nodded as she and her small swarm of changelings jumped off the airship and flew towards the ships main destination.

As Zeil looked over the ships railings, he could see below two approaching islands. The first was a smaller but strange looking island that had a large arcs of ice shards that made a sort of ice dome expertly crafted to cover a majority of the island making it resemble a blueish turtle. The other island seemed much larger as it strongly resembled a simple sea port island only this seemingly small island was also complete with a tall sky port that towered above all other buildings on the island. As they approached, Captain Ceano could see Zeil’s curiosity as she spoke, “The first Island is called Sanctuary. It is the home of the Leviathan and the one island that no living soul other than the leviathan himself can step upon. And as for the other, that is the Isle of Home. The only island in the leviathan seas allowing other mortals to inhabit, and the former home of Iron Hoof and Siren.”

Powder Keg was standing not too far from the group as he spoke, “Don’t forget a number of Captain Sail’s crew, as well as Pinpoint, and Jim.”
Captain Ceano nodded, “That’s right… and if I'm not mistaken you are the last of those who actually stood upon Sanctuary aren’t you Mr. Keg.”
Powder Keg nodded, “Aye I was… But it was Captain Sail who threatened the Leviathan on his turf. I think that was the one time aboard his ship that made me question his sanity. But par the norm, we managed to step off that island with no blood spilt.”
Captain Ceano nodded, “Well that’s a story for another time. For now, all ahead to Home.”
Nodding, Zeil and Zecora looked off the ship towards home as the airship sailed closer before lowering its altitude and prepping to dock on the nearest sky dock.

After the ship docked, Zeil and Zecora trotted down the stairs to the ground level as they were met by Chief Basarum, lady Zera, Prince Armor, Princess Cadence and Thorax as Zecora approached her father and hugged him, “Mother, father, I'm glad you could attend. Thou I’d understand its truth, since you’ve a tribe to tend.”
Zecora finished hugging her father and then hugged her mother as Chief Basarum spoke, “And miss little Zee Zee’s wedding day? I would sooner disband the Northern Tribe before I could ever miss such an occasion.” He looked to Zeil and nodded “Mage Zeil…”
Zeil nodded back, “Chief, I'm a little disappointed you didn’t tell me about your relation to Zecora sooner.”
Chief Basarum replied, “Would it have changed anything?”
Zeil shook his head, “Not at all no… but it still would have been nice to know.”
After hugging her daughter, Lady Zera walked over and unexpectedly hugged Zeil as she spoke, “I'm so happy I lived to see this day. I always wanted to meet the stallion to win my daughters heart, and I must admit. I'm a little jealous.”

Smiling Zeil hugged Lady Zera back as he nodded, “Now, now Lady Zera, remember you’re a married mare.”
She chuckled as she stopped hugging him, “Now stop; all this formal stuff. Lady Zera? From today onward, its mother from you.”
Zeil smiled, “Mother… an odd concept since we changelings don’t really have that sort of mindset, but if you say it is, then it must be so mother. After all, even the Mage of Zebrica wouldn’t dare cross you.”
Smiling with pride Zera nodded in acceptance to his comment as Zeil looked to Chief Basarum as the chief gave him a dull look, “it’s Chief or nothing with me… You’re going to have to earn that right.”
Zeil laughed as he replied, “I would expect nothing less.” He looked to Shining Armor and his wife, “Good to see the ruler of the crystal ponies could make it as well.”

Shinning Armor nodded, “You made me a groom’s colt. Even I can't refuse an honor such as that from the Mage of Zebrica.”
Princess Cadence nodded, “Shining Armor has been excited to attend this wedding. It was funny seeing him acting all coy about it.”
Zeil smiled, “I'm sure he is just happy the tension between us is gone. Even if he didn’t take up my offer of joining us on Captian Ceano’s ship.”
Shining Armor smiled embarrassingly, “well, the thought of you me and thousands of feet between us and the ground didn’t help either.”
The group laughed about the comment as Thorax spoke next, “It’s funny though. The sheer number of royals and rulers at this wedding, is very surprising.”
Zeil smiled, “I made a lot of friends, I'm glad they could make it.”

As that was said, Zecora started to speak, “To meet so many on your jou-“
Lady Zera interrupted, “Wait… what are we doing? It’s hours till the ceremony and you’re not in your dress.” She stepped behind her daughter and started pushing her down the road, “Come, come we must hurry. It’s bad enough the groom saw you on your big day. We cannot have you bringing more bad luck onto this day.”
As the two left the area, Princess Cadence followed closely behind leaving, Thorax, Shining Armor, and Chief Basarum with Zeil as Thorax spoke, “So brother… todays the big day. You nervous?”
Zeil smiled, “A little, but we’ve been together for a while now so I felt it was time.”
Shining Armor nodded, “Okay… but, what about after the wedding… you nervous about that?”
Feeling a little uneasy Zeil looked to Chief Basarum before looking back and replying, “That’s… a little personal don’t you think? I mean her father is right here.”
Immediately getting his statement, Chief Basarum gave him an angry look as Shining Armor shook his head, “What? N-no not that. I'm talking about what you wanted us to help you with. The spell, the very reason we came to Home in the first place.”

Laughing out loud at the misunderstanding, Zeil replied, “Oh, that. Well…” he thought to himself, “I'll admit… not having been a part of this very specific forbidden spell, is concerning. But I owe it to Zecora to give her the life she deserves. And the family she wants. By the way, did you bring the spell book?”
Shining Armor nodded as he replied, “I did but… why is this spell considered forbidden? It’s already been used once before right? And twilight managed to use an alternative version with this book?”
Zeil nodded, “Yes, but the one Twilight used was altered from the original spell King Mathias wrote. Starswerle was given the spell in an attempt to use it without the need of a Titan Relic. But since this is the original that uses such a relic, its best it remain forbidden. I’ve seen first hoof the danger that such an item can bring. In fact attempting to manipulate the relic’s magic like this is very dangerous. There is a possibility I won't survive it if things go wrong.” He gave the group a serious look, “That’s why I hoof chose you three as my catalysts. I'm counting on you to do your parts.”

The three Stallion nodded in agreement, before being interrupted as a large group of hippogriff made their way down the road as Zeil looked to see that it was Princess Skystar and a tall faded pink hippogriff who by the sight of the following guards was obviously royalty. As the group approach the tall pink hippogriff started to speak first, “Prince Armor, it’s good to see you again, am I to assume th-“
Princess Skystar smiled as she hugged Zeil, “Sir Zeil! It’s good to see you again. It’s been a long time.”
Feeling somewhat awkward Zeil nodded, “Princess Skystar, it’s good to see you again too.”
Sighing in hopelessness, the taller mare replied, “Skystar I know you’re happy to see him, but can you at least try to act a little formal in public?”
Princess Skystar stopped hugging him as she replied, “I know, but I can't help it. He is the one who gave me advice about Captain Jim, and he is th-“
Queen Novo’s Expression became serious as Skystar silenced herself at the stern look as Zeil completely ignored the tension, “Speaking of which, how is Captain Jim? I hear he is wanted in three kingdoms now.”
Queen Novo sighed, “My future Son-in-law is out wreaking havoc as per the norm. I still wish he would stop his playing pirate and settle down already. Though I'm disappointed in his lifestyle, he is a kind and caring stallion… and I would like to meet my future grandchildren before I give you the throne.”

Princess Skystar gave her mother an annoyed look, “Mom, I told you we aren’t ready for that. We are trying to take it slow.”
Queen Novo mumbled as she averted her eyes, “A little too slow if you ask me. I'm not getting any younger.”
Zeil Laughed, “Well, at least you’re warming up to him.”
Before more could be said, another hippogriff approached with a sea green coat as she spoke, “You! Are you mage Zeil?”
Zeil nodded as he started to reply, “Yes, I'm mage Zeil… you must be the Prieste -“
She raised her hood to silence him, “Yea, yea I'm her, what are you doing out here? The ceremony is in less than two hours and you’re not dressed yet! We need to go now!”

Before he could respond, the mare started pushing Zeil down the road as he spoke, “Okay, okay just take it easy.”
She spoke in irritation, “You’re this late for your own wedding and you’re telling me to take it easy? I'm the priestess marrying you and if you’re late then half the blame falls on me. Like my father before me, I run a tight ship and I won't let a former member of his crew ruin my reputation.”
Zeil thought to himself, “Former member of his crew? Are you? Captain Sail’s daughter?”
She shook her head, “Not him, try one step lower. He wasn’t the captain, but his authority was still important.”
Zeil smiled, “Mr Point?”
She smiled “Bingo.”
With the group composed of one zebra chief, one unicorn prince, two hippogriff royals, a hippogriff priestess, and their changeling friend trotting towards the city center, they entered a plaza as Zeil replied, “I see… so your name is Priestess Melody isn’t it?”
She nodded, “it is.”
Zeil replied, “Powder Keg wanted me to say hi to you for him. He wanted to be at the wedding but I think he had other matters to deal with.”

The priestess chuckled, “Id assume as much, Uncle Keg seems to always be on the move. And speaking of which… look there. I think you would have interest in Home’s greatest monument.”
As the priestess pointed across the plaza Zeil could see a large statue depicting two ponies sitting back to back. The first, though younger then he remembered, was obviously Captain Sail, who sat looking north with a stoic stance and expression. The beautiful mare leaning against his back however, Zeil didn’t recognize as the mare faced the south, but looked over her shoulder towards the stallion with an expression of trust as if the two were comrades in battle. As Zeil looked to the unknown mare, he could only guess, “That’s…Siren, isn’t it?”
Priestess Aqua nodded as she replied, “Yes, I never met her myself since she died before I was born, but mother told me she and Captain Sail are hero’s to Home. And it was believed that the two were lovers as well.”
Queen Novo made a scoffed noise as she looked away and replied, “Lovers… don’t murder one another.”

Putting her hoof on her head in irritation Princess Skystar replied, “Mom, let’s not get into this again.”
Zeil replied, “Actually… I can tell that the subject brings anger to the Queen’s emotions… if I may. Why not say what’s on your mind your majesty. Though I disagree with your sentiment, it would be disrespectful if I didn’t hear your side of it.”
Queen Novo trotted closer to the statue as she placed her talon against the pedestal as she replied, “Siren, was the closest pony I could ever call to a sister. Her inspiration and bravery inspired me as both a mare and a queen.” She closed her talon into a fist, “But the day Captain Sail took her life… I wanted nothing more then to make him pay for it. He says she wanted him to do it, but she was far too strong for that. She would never give up so easily, and to believe the words of a pirate that he did so out of respect and mercy. It insults her even further.”
Zeil nodded, “I see…”

Hearing the nonchalant tone, Queen Novo gave him an unamused look, “You disagree?”
Zeil approached the statue himself and looked to the captain as he replied, “As a changeling, I can feel emotions. And when he told me the story himself, every word he said was filled with a deep and suffering pain. Despite how much his expression hid it, regret was the only tone he held in his words. Whether he be a pirate, a noble, or even a priest… those words carried no lie. He was in love, and his actions, were that of one loyal to that love… despite his feelings. Or… the tormenting regret that followed.”

After hearing him, the rest of the party could only hold their silence as the queen sighed before speaking, “I know… I often believed him to be truthful, while at the same time denying it. But I can't change my feelings. Not now, even after he is gone.”
Zeil smiled, “Good, because he wouldn’t want you to.”
She gave Zeil a confused look as he smiled at her, “Captain Sail has always held loyalty as his most respected trait. And by continuing to hate him, you’re only showing how loyal to Siren you are. Just as he showed the same, when he did what he did.”
Leaving her speechless, Zeil trotted around the statue as he spoke, “Let’s go Priestess… I wouldn’t want to leave my bride waiting too long.”
With that said, Zeil, Priestess Melody, Shining Armor, Chief Basarum, and Thorax continued towards the Cities’ Temple as Queen Novo, her guards, and daughter were left standing in front of the memorial as Queen Novo looked back to the statue of Captain Sail as she mumbled, “Loyalty… hmm…”

Seeing the slight smile on her mother’s face, Princess Skystar spoke, “What is it mom?”
Queen Novo shook her head, “Oh nothing… maybe… I’ve just been looking at it from the wrong angle all along.” She looked towards the leaving party, “Maybe this Mage is just as wise as you say he is.”
Princess Skystar smiled, “Like I said, even before he became the mage, there has always been something about him. He seems so scary and yet trusting at the same time. I’ve always heard that the Mage of Zebrica is a stallion who brings balance. I wonder if this is a form of balance too.”
The Queen could only smile, “Well it’s about time. I could have used this balance a long time ago.”

Less than an hour later at the Temple, Zeil Stood at the front of the aisle next to the priestess wearing green, orang, and brown robes which could only be described as Zebrican in appearance. Next to him as his colts of honor, stood Thorax in a similar rob which was decorated with neon green and cobalt, while next to him in a cyan, sky blue, and white robe stood Shining Armor as the rulers robes seemed Zebrican as well, but with colors that represented their home nations. On the bride’s side of the podium, stood a number of mares to include, Princess Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Lady Zera, Ocellus, and Princess Cadence. As the music played, Zeil couldn’t help but hold a peaceful smile as he paned his eyes over the audients. Everywhere he looked was a familiar face from near, far, and all in between. Then a still somewhat new face came trotting down the aisle, as a young alicorn filly with her grey coat, midnight blue mane with a yellow and navy blue strip down its middle, trotted down the isle with a basket of rose petals as she scattered them carefully over the aisle before reaching the end right before Zeil as the young princess stepped off and stood next to the rest of the brides maids. Then a more predominant tone played as the guests stood and faced the center aisle as Zecora and Chief Basarum stepped into the aisle.

Chief Basarum wore a robe similar to Zeil’s but his didn’t seem as dominant. However unlike Zeil Chief Basarum wore a large vibrant crown dawned with feathers and beads in a pattern that signified authority. Zecora however wore a very beautiful dress which hung down behind her flank and dragged on the floor a few feet behind her. The dress seemed to be separated into five different stripes which along each stripe held their own distinct assortment of beads and feathers of a color. One stripe to her far right was black and white with beads of bone and feathers which held a color scheme, easily relevant of the Southern Tribe. The next moving towards her left was a stripe of silver and grey with grey and white feathers assorted with metal beads painted to match the colors of the Eastern Tribe. The strip on her far left was green and brown with the same colored feathers dawned with wood and fibrous beads made entirely of plants. Obviously the Western tribe’s colors. And next to that moving towards her right was a strip of green, orange, and red colored feathers which held glass and wooden beads all painted to match the colors of the Norther tribe. And finally lining down the center of the dress between all the tribal stripes was a stripe of vibrantly pattered beads and feathers from all four tribes. Easily a symbol of the unity of the entirety of Zebrica as a whole. With the meaning of the dress’s appearance being overlooked by many, everyone still admired Zecora’s beauty as she and her father trotted down the aisle side by side as they kept a steady pace towards the alter where Zeil and the priestess were standing. As they two met at the front of the alter, Chief Basarum gave a trusting nod towards Zeil as he spoke very quietly and subtly, “Hurt her and I'll kill you.”

Smiling and responding with the same quiet and subtle tone, Zeil replied, “Noted…”
With that Chief Basarum stepped to the side with all the other groom’s colts as Zeil held out his hoof to Zecora. As she took his hoof he whispered, “You look beautiful.”
Blushing but not saying anything, Zecora stepped to Zeil’s side as they turned to the Priestess as she smiled before speaking, “You may be seated.”
As the room sat down, the priestess couldn’t help but marvel over the crowed as she smiled, “If I didn’t see it for myself, I would assume any to describe this wedding to be lying. Today to mark this momentous occasion, I see faces of every walk of life. I see creatures of many types, from nations near and far, cultures, races and even those from local areas. I look over a room, of peasants, surfs, nobles, kings, queens, princes and princesses, chiefs, and even a druid in the back there. Unified in one room, I see a creation of all six titans come to bear witness and approval of this very union which in itself, a marvel to behold.”

She pointed to Zecora’s, “A zebra… Princess?” she looked to Chief Basarum as he shrugged his shoulders, “Well technically we don’t have such a thing but as daughter to the chief, you could say so.”
She gestured to Zeil, “and a changeling… prince?”
She looked to thorax this time as he added, “Also… not really a thing but I guess so?”
Chuckling Priestess Melody smiled, “Well, whatever they are. It’s no doubt an amazing display of how love truly conquers all. So first I would like to start with allowing both the bride and groom to say a few words of their own.”
Zeil turned to Zecora as he held her hoof and spoke, “Zecora, I know you’ve heard many tales about my travels, and with all who are here today, you will probably hear more detailed discriptions from witnesses themselves. But I want you to know that no matter how amazing it seems, how exciting, spiritual, or interesting my discoveries in making it here to your side. None of it… compares to you. To be here, with you, in front of all these witnesses. Is truly the highlight of my life. And if I had to make this journey over again, to face the dangers, to test the trials, or feel the pain in my travels. I would do it ten times over, as long as after its all said and done. I will be here by your side. Till death do us part, and be-”
All of a sudden Zeil was interrupted as Rarity busted out in a loud fit of crying as she threw her hooves around Fluttershy and spoke through her sobbing, “Waaa Its- its… so… beau-ti-ful!..”
Rolling his eyes, Zeil looked back to Zecora as he finished, “And Beyond.” With rarity’s balling continuing to echo through the room, everyone ignored her as Priestess Melody spoke, “That was beautiful Mage Zeil… Now… Miss Zecora? You have some words to say as well?”

She nodded as Zecora lifted her Veil before speaking, “Zeil, my love. I’ve waited long for this day… and I’ve practiced a lot for what I have to say.” With that rhyme, Zecora cleared her throat as she looked him in the eye and continued, “When you left, you didn’t know it… but you took a piece of me with you. And in hopes of seeing you again, as you requested, I waited. I waited in our special place till the night ended and the sun rose. I waited when Twilight told me what I already pieced together about your origin and species. I waited when Prince Shinning Armor told me that you were nowhere to be found and when he called off his search to retrieve you, I waited even still. When many told me that you were only toying with me, and that your feelings meant nothing. I waited even when the world was at its end and I was forced to assist Commander Bolt to defeat the Dark Alicorn. And upon my return from that still, I continued to wait. I waited, as the days turned to weeks, into months, and even when it turned to years, I continued to wait. When all seemed hopeless and forgotten to most… I continued to wait. Because I knew you would eventually return to me… I knew the truth. And now, after your return I finally found what it was you took with you. A special part of myself. My heart, and… my love. And now, on this day looking forward, I cannot imagine a world where we are apart. As my light is to your darkness, when we are together… then we two are truly complete.” She smiled with joy as she spoke, “I love you Zeil, and nothing will ever change that.”

With nothing more to say, Zecora leaned in and Kissed Zeil as he could only hung her and return the kiss as the rest of the room stood wide eyed at the fact that Zecora spoke without a single rhyme. As they stood shocked Thorax leaned closer to Chief Basarum, “Did… did you know she could speak normally?”
He shook his head, “Not at all…”
Feeling like they rushed it, Priestess Melody spoke, “Well… I guess we can skip the I do’s since you already kissed. So… Any objections from the audience?” She hesitated, “No?... then by my power and the titan Liviathan’s guidance. I pronounce you mage and wife. Um… continue to kiss I guess.”
Hearing that, Zecora and Zeil did just that as those attending stood and applauded the newlywed couple with Rarities balling being the only other sound to echo over the applause.