Love's Lost Decade

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.