Timeless

by RadBunny

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Sad, Other, Romance, Princess Luna, Original Character, Bat Pony, Princess Celestia
Length: 58250

When Princess Luna returned, the thousand years of banishment was a blur. It was merciful, in a way. Everycreature she once knew was there one minute, and gone the next. One stallion wasn't so lucky.

Time is a neutral party. It takes no sides, only proceeding without a care for those caught in its trap. That is how it should be...
But not all traps are foolproof.

When a pony seeking the Night Princess's counsel intervenes during an assassination attempt, Luna knew there was more to this stallion than met the eye.
However, even her expectations had limits. That, Luna discovered, was a mistake.

One question troubles her thoughts as a new problem presents itself in the form of this stallion; how does a heart and mind cope when one escapes the trap of time? What happens to a good heart when it is worn away, year after year, all stemming from a single mistake, no matter how good the intentions?

Equestria Daily seal of approval: https://www.equestriadaily.com/2019/11/fanfiction-timeless.html

Takes place during/after Season 9.
Sequel: Sunspots

Published 2019-05-23 22:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2019-08-04 19:47:11 UTC

Chapter One: The hourglass that never tipped

Dreams were an interesting thing; it had taken centuries for Luna to learn how to perform her duties correctly. It had taken even longer to perfect the art of dispelling nightmares let alone detecting them. Now however it was second nature, a reality she traversed and dealt with as easily as the physical one.

As she floated through the nightly realm, snapshots countless dreams rose up to meet her. Each had an aura, providing the Princess with a sense of how best to help if at all. The ones with a soft color sheen were pleasant dreams, be it of frolicking in a field, reading a book with a loved one, or having a pleasant day at work, if the pony happened to be a workaholic that is. The crimson bubbles were blurred and Luna steered clear of those. Privacy was certainly something everypony should have and lustful dreams were no exception, be it in olden times or now.

She had made the mistake of peeking in on those once.

Once.

The dream bubbles with black tendrils were her target; those that were fully engulfed yielded a nightmare in full swing. Each was dispelled in a different fashion, be it by vanquishing a monster, comforting a pony, or simply changing the setting.

It was an exhausting yet rewarding job but one that Luna wouldn’t trade for the world.

And to think I was once so unappreciative of Celestia’s willingness to make me a good breakfast! Or dinner in my case.

A smile tugged on her light bluish-purple features, the Princess of the Night angling her wings to soar among the dream bubbles. One bubble caught her attention, glowing a series of colors. Black mixed with green and blue, it was as though the pony wasn’t able to decide on whether it was a nightmare or a pleasant experience. She had seen this dream bubble before and dove in without a second thought.

Blinking in surprise, Luna found herself on a hilltop, a unicorn stallion sitting atop it gazing at a night’s sky. The moon was larger than normal and this time had the Mare in the Moon emblazoned upon it. The stars were brilliant, shining as though magnified through a massive lens and making the entire scene nearly as bright as day.

Ten dreams, and I still have no idea who you are! No ancient shopping bazaars this time nor views of battles long past.

“Ah. My mind has conjured you up again. Or perhaps you are real? I suppose it doesn’t matter now,” the stallion rumbled. His deep voice carried a strange weight to it, as though each word was thought out and said precisely with exact meaning and feeling.

His tan coat as times before remained curiously shrouded, somehow preventing Luna from seeing the exact features of the odd pony. Even his cutie mark was hidden by the mirage. The only thing unblurred were the pony’s eyes, dark brown and as strong as an old oak tree. They looked at her briefly, a strange sense of determination behind the stallion’s gaze.

“I will be in Canterlot within a few hours so I guess then I’ll finally get to see you in the flesh. For better or worse I do not know yet,” he mused, the landscape shifting as the stallion walked across the hill. “Perhaps something more pleasant before I wake.”

The phrase prompted Luna’s eyes to widen.

A lucid dreamer?

A massive lake reflecting the night’s sky was now filling her vision, the two ponies perched on a rocky island in the center. A strange hum permeated the dream now and the stallion sighed. “A blessing or a curse seeing you here must be. For from my mind I cannot see.”

That poem, I’ve read that before…

Luna was ejected from the dream as the pony woke up, the Princess immediately snapping herself out of her dream-realm state. Her sister was likely not even asleep, having barely retired for the evening after Luna raised the moon. For the few hours immediately following the setting of the sun, Luna browsed the dream realm and held night court on occasion, the later times being for the later every night.

“Sister,” she whispered, poking her head into Celestia’s chambers after knocking. Sure enough, the Alabaster alicorn was sipping on some steaming tea, perking up at seeing Luna enter.

“Lulu! What’s the occasion?” Celestia asked, stretching out on the massive custom-built couch, her regalia set neatly by the door.

“That dream again. The pony is supposed to be here, tonight,” Luna stated flatly, shaking her head slowly. “And I know of the threats. My guard is on full alert, but is it not odd? A pony in his dream signifying to be here on the eve of a dangerous tip off?”

Celestia nodded slowly, her eyes narrowing slightly. “This is the same pony you have mentioned before; the one with the dreams that should not exist? I would say it is most certainly odd and not a coincidence. Be careful, Luna. We may get these supposed threats somewhat often but it is the times we dismiss them…”

The Sun Princess let out a titter, waving her hoof at Luna’s unimpressed expression. “Oh goodness. I forgot who I was t-talking to for a moment!” Celestia laughed, not able to resist a bit of mirth. “You have, after all, been more concerned about security than I ever have! And I mean that in the best way possible Lulu, and am thankful for it,” she added with a smile, prompting a chuckle from Luna.

“Aye. Yet thankfully my plans were rarely put into action. You can rest peacefully, Sister. A portion of your guard is on standby and my own Night Guard is on full alert. Additional measures outside the castle have been put in place as well.”

The two rulers parted, one heading to the throne room for an early session of night court, while the other lost herself in the never-land of dreams.

As businesses shifted to their evening schedules the inhabitants of Canterlot likewise began to re-emerge. For many of younger ages the time of partying had barely begun and many clubs had begun to spin up their disco tracks for another evening of fun. When old lamps dimmed, newer neon lights ignited with their own fire, luring in all wanting some late-night dancing fun.

His worn horseshoes clip-clopping along the cobblestone streets, an unassuming unicorn made his way slowly towards the castle. Clad in a worn faux-leather fog coat, one would easily place such a pony as a lighthouse keeper or perhaps a rainy-day security guard. While larger than most stallions, his limbs and body were not overburdened with excessive bulk. The lean muscle that was wrapped around his frame spoke of a life constantly in motion and of regular use.

The clothing the stallion wore seemed to radiate a sense of innate self rather than mere fashion. The coat was worn away in many places, patched and expertly sewn from tears and gashes. The pony underneath seemed to carry himself much like the coat, as though needle and thread had worked its way through himself on many occasions. Odd bumps and angular shapes seemed to protrude from the jacket, but only if the stallion shifted one way or the other.

When the jacket was blown by a gust of wind, the tan pony’s cutie mark was visible for but a moment prompting a few interested looks. A light tan cloud stood out on his flank, a black shield on either side of the symbol. It was then gone from view underneath the coat, much like the pony that meandered in and out of various views.

A few ponies hawking counterfeit wares opened their muzzles to showcase their products but their words turned to ash on their tongues. The brown eyes that stared back at them showed no openness to such wastes of time, and a few who turned away shook their heads slowly. They had held his gaze a moment too long and seen the knife’s edge hidden underneath the placid eyes of the odd pony.

His target was now nearing; the Canterlot Court area. Night court should be in session and the old worn brass pocket watch indicated that he was just in time.

Time. Just in time indeed. He mused.

Princess Luna tapped the edge of her seat in thought. Something was amiss, that much was certain. While not as old as Celestia, especially considering the one thousand-year banishment, the Alicorn had developed a vague sense of when something was not right with the world. Celestia naturally had a more refined ability honed over many more centuries.

This however, was different. Even the two guards that stood at the bottom of the throne seemed on edge.

“Dancing Iron, you and your compatriot have been shifting for a good thirty minutes; it is most unlike you,” Luna remarked, no petitioners making their way into the court as usual. Night court rarely saw visitors but the ones who did show always made Luna perk up ever so slightly. Between the late hour and Luna’s reputation of being not as ‘amicable,’ however inaccurate that may be, it was somewhat understandable. I do admit, I lack my sister’s affectionate touch when dealing with fools.

“Sorry, your Highness. Just, something seems off. Even the other guards seemed a bit odd,” Dancing said, adjusting her helmet slightly as furry thermal ears poked through the helmet’s top. Her companion, a fellow but burly bat-pony stallion by the name of Spear Note, nodded in agreement. The pair looked similar in dark violet armor and grey fur, the result of a spell in the armor itself much like the royal guard.

“I must agree with her. It is an odd night,” Spear chimed in.

Luna let out a thoughtful hum, head shaking slightly. “I too would agree. This heightened security is not like other…”

Her voice drifted off as a stallion trotted in, a strange, worn coat covering most of his body. His eyes looked up and the Princess stiffened.

I know those eyes.

“Your highness. I respectfully request an audience and your council,” the stallion’s voice carried across the room causing Luna to nod in curiosity.

Such an odd and respectful manner. Perhaps we can get to the bottom of this.

He stopped a short distance away, then bowing his head and kneeling on one hoof. While such gestures were all too common, this pony seemed to lack much of the anxiety that usually surrounded meeting royalty as he performed the motions.

“May I ask your name, gentlestallion, and the manner of your audience?” Luna questioned, forcing herself not to shift with nerves. Her nights were supposed to be ones of peace, not this odd tension that was threatening to engulf the entire castle.

“My name is Shifting Sands, Princess Luna, and my request is not a simple one. Before I give you the true reason I am here, I must ask for you to be on your guard,” Shifting remarked calmly. “The threat to your life is real, and I have come to warn you and help if I can.”

Luna had to stop a giggle, waving a metal-shod hoof at the stallion as a bit of her nerves evaporated.

“While we are honored at your request, we are quite safe and wish to thank you for your concern. Our guards have everything in hoof for security here.”

The worry in the brown eyes that met her own stopped the Alicorn’s mirth cold as his words froze her entire figure.

“Your highness, your guards are the threat.”

Dancing and Spear lowered their weapons at the stallion, letting out a soft growl. “You dare!” Dancing hissed, prompting Shifting to shake his head.

“Not all but a group. Many are still loyal but not nearly as devout as these two. A portion should be here soon and they have deadly intent.”

Luna quickly activated a silent alarm spell, eyes narrowing at the stallion still kneeling in front of her. “How do you know all this? Who are you?” she demanded, standing up to her full height.

Before Shifting could reply four windows burst into shards, over a dozen ponies clad in night-guard armor standing in a semi-circle around the four individuals.

“Silent alarm?” one of them called.

“Delayed. We have a few minutes.”

One of the ponies stepped forward, holding a spear with an experienced grip. The mare took off her helmet, letting a gold mane spill forth as her slitted yellow eyes looked towards Luna.

“Hello, Princess. Sorry to barge in, but we’ve got some business to take care off. Nothing personal, really,” Knife Twist remarked, the Captain of the Guard then securing her helmet. “Dancing? Spear? Really? I told you to take some time off today. I really didn’t want you caught up in this,” the treacherous mare sighed, then shrugging her shoulders. “No matter. Let’s get to work then.”

“I think not!” a bellow caused the guard to pause, an amused gaze on her bat-pony features.

“And you are?”

Shifting Sands stood as his jacket began to burn away. The brown stallion glared at Knife, eyes narrowing with genuine rage. “Shifting Sands. Private First Class,” he grunted, prompting a laugh from the Captain.

“A Private? Some off duty Guard? Really? Oh goodness. Sorry, but you’re out of your league.”

Two of the guards were promptly flattened as Luna had heard enough, yanking the very stones of the castle’s floor to pin them to the walls. She then grasped her head in pain, a strange ringing making the world spin.

“Ah ah ah! No alicorn magic for you,” Knife chirped, tossing up a small red crystal that vibrated this way and that as it floated in the air. “Not good for more than five minutes, but too much monologuing already.”

The captain trotted forward and pirouetted, thrusting the spear forward to impale the still-frozen stallion. Her yellow eyes widened in shock as the pony blocked the strike, pinning the Captain to the ground with her own spear.

“Ten years I’ve been waiting for you, Knife Twist. Ten years to plan for you and your treasonous cultists. I was one of the original members but you probably don’t even remember me,” Shifting hissed, his jacket now falling away fully.

Leather barding covered the stallion nearly completely only ending near his limb joints. Odd strips of metal, bumped and angular, were seemingly welded into the armor at regular intervals. His brown eyes held no mercy as he blocked another strike from the captain, his own horn igniting with a bright tan flash.

The captain found herself encased in solid stone, having melted into the floor below. All she could do was watch in horror as the stallion stepped over her, Luna’s two loyal guards taking either side of Shifting.

The remaining group rushed the trio and the room was thrown into chaos.

Dancing was a blur of movement, cracking skulls with her own spear as her companion pummeled an unfortunate traitor with his metal-shod hooves. Four faced Shifting Sands, a few traitors behind those ponies that readied their other weapons.

Three spears then flew towards Luna, the Alicorn still reeling from the effects of the crystal. She had enough willpower to raise a shield however, but didn’t have time for a gasp as the spear passed right through it, the enchanted weapons countering her own magic.

Grasped in a tan glow, the three spears froze mid-flight then snapped in half. Shifting shook his head as he then rounded on the three guards, tossing the broken weapons aside.

Who is this pony?!

Magical tethers ignited along Shifting’s armor, whip-line arcane tendrils running across his entire frame, dancing across the raised strips of metal. Ropes of pulsing power surged up from the floor, feeding into the energy that swirled around the unicorn.

Ancient magic? Using the leylines of Equestria?

The air snapping with magical power, the unicorn seemed to skate towards the guards and hitting one hard enough to send him comically flying into a wall, armor dented and cracked.

A saber then drew from a scabbard along Shifting’s side, the stallion then frowning as the blade shone in the room’s crystal lighting.

“Right. Avoid killing if able,” he muttered to himself, and the saber began to glow slightly with his sand-colored magic. The edge melted back into the blade, making the weapon a blunt instrument rather than edged.

Dodging a swipe of a sword from one, Shifting broke the stallion’s jaw with a brutal punch, his own weapon blocking a sword swipe from yet another. Another traitor darted in, scoring a successful hit on Shifting’s side armor with a blade. The owner’s reward for a successful blow was a buck to the face, sending his neck twisting at an odd angle as he flew across the room.

He’s fast, too fast for a normal pony. And those blows are shattering metal! How…

Now facing another four guards Shifting Sands growled, arcane lines of energy sparking out from his armor as the sword spun expertly in his magical grasp. “You all betrayed your oath, betrayed her!” he hissed, brown eyes narrowed in fury.

He swiped a hoof across the floor, a series of blue symbols sketching themselves across the floor into a magical rune. Luna’s eyes widened as the old magic activated, sending a line of tan protective shields snapping out across the room, separating her from the battle. What made the Alicorn stare, however, was that her half-moon symbol was shining brightly in the rune’s center.

A guard tried to breach one of the shields and the magical entity retaliated by hitting the pony hard enough to crack his helmet, then returning to its original station in the line. Luna’s two loyal guards had dispatched three enemies each leaving just six ponies now facing them. The group was significantly less confident, only a few edging forward now.

Shifting trotted forward, an air of almost dismissive confidence radiating from the odd unicorn.

With a blur of magic he careened into the middle of the group, the unicorn’s arcane-charged blows sending the assailants flying into pillars and walls. One unfortunate guard met his face by being dazed by a blunt saber blow to the head, only to take a rib-cracking blow to his chest.

The remaining two traitors now threw down their weapons, Shifting Sands holding his blade at the ready as they begged for their lives.

“Mercy. That is offered now more often than not, correct? Such a thing has become more and more common,” he asked himself, saber glowing to restore the razor-sharp edge. “It is perhaps better that I do not make that call.”

As Dancing Iron stomped on the restraining crystal to shatter it, Luna shook her head as she activated her own armor, breastplate and greaves weaving into shape along her frame as she trotted towards the groveling ponies. The tan shields created by Shift vanished, leaving her to pass by unimpeded.

“In the olden days we would execute you without a second thought,” she remarked, a sword forged from a metal as dark as her cutie mark now summoned in her own grip. “But we are not in the olden times, are we? Private Sands, can you remove my Ex-Captain from the floor please?”

Shifting put away his own weapon, looking over to the still-mortified thestral frozen in the stone. “Of course, your Highness.”

The ex-captain gasped for breath as the stone spit her out like a foul meal. She then gulped as Luna leveled her sword, eyes devoid of any mercy. “We should kill thee.”

“LUNA!”

The air in the room popped, a flaming alabaster alicorn now hovering in the center. Celestia’s mane was ablaze with orange fire, a molten blade in her telekinetic grip as a detachment of royal guards thundered into the throne room.

The group skidded to a halt, only seeing a group of wounded or dead bat-ponies groaning and Luna holding a sword to the throat of her own captain.

“…What did I miss?” Celestia whispered, prompting a wry grin from Luna.

“Dismiss the guards and we shall tell thee. Not you, Shifting Sands, you stay. We are safe now.”

Not looking up from his bow to Celestia, Shifting simply nodded. “Of course, Highness.”

Celestia sipped a cup of hot chocolate as she looked down at the still-bowing stallion, then turning to look at her sister. “Your own Captain? How? And this one stopped most of them?”

Luna nodded, gesturing to a pile of weapons that was secured to the side of the room. The bodies both living and dead had been carried out, leaving only the two rulers alone with the curious stallion.

There was, of course, a massive detachment of guards outside the door.

“Indeed. I do not know her motives, only that she had been prepared to counter my magic. The spears are enchanted to counteract my shield spell specifically. Private Sands says this plan had been in place for a decade and he knew of it since he was originally a member.”

Celestia’s eyes narrowed, the bowing stallion then speaking up.

“If I may interject, your Highness. I was a member for the sole purpose of discovering their plans. I contributed in no way other than laying false information to delay their attack as long as I could. They did, for a time, consider attacking the recent Princess Twilight. I managed to keep their target to you, as such an attempt would have a higher chance of failure.”

The Solar Princess’s gaze softened ever so slightly, then yielding to Luna as she stood.

“Shifting Sands,” Luna called, trotting down to sit a bit closer to the odd stallion. “What is your full name and rank?”

The stallion paused, then stood and saluted the Princess with a snap of his hoof. A bit of confidence seemed to drain from his eyes replaced by trepidation. “Shifting Sands. Private First Class. First Battalion of the Lunar Knights.”

A sharp hiss left Celestia’s mouth, the ruler now trotting down to glare at the pony suspiciously. “That is impossible.”

Luna could only stare, eyes wide in shock. “Sister? When were my Knights disbanded?” she whispered, prompting Celestia to sigh. Shifting Sands now lowered his gaze, as though an invisible weight was beginning to settle on the stallion’s shoulders.

“Five years after I banished Nightmare Moon, they were incorporated into my guard. That was over one thousand years ago.”

The two alicorns now stared at Shifting Sands, the stallion standing at attention. His steely demeanor then began to crack, the muscles in the stallion’s throat constricting as emotion sought to delay his words. The confidence in his frame was gone, the pony seeming to have trouble standing. His eyes seemed somehow clearer than before as though a thin silk curtain had been removed between them.

“One thousand and seventeen years, your highness. I disobeyed that order,” he whispered, then unbuckling a small pouch on his chest. The Private retrieved a small item, setting it down on the floor and sliding it over.

At the sight of a white pearl moon etched in dark metal Luna’s eyes widened in shock,

and then began to water. A single brief memory surged to the fore as the Alicorn pointed at the stallion.

“Sister, I remember him,” Luna whispered, the implications of what was transpiring almost overwhelming.

“From when, Luna?”

“When I was a filly, a single exchange. I also remember him joining my Knights years later.”

Celestia glared at the pony while her sister continued to stare in shock. “Shifting Sands, how is this possible? How old are you?”

Shifting grit his teeth, not able to stop the tears from tracing down his cheeks. “I-it is the other reason I came here, your Highness,” he whispered, not able to stop the flow of emotion that wet his fur.

“I came to seek penance. I made a mistake, your Highness. There was an artifact, and I thought I…” The stallion’s eyes widened, yet the Private still managed to keep his demeanor. “I just wanted to save them, your Highness. I couldn’t-I didn’t-I was too young to understand the cost of it all, be it within law and otherwise though. I found, I used…”

“Private Shifting Sands, What. Did. You. Do?” Luna barked, staring down the stallion with narrowed eyes.

Shifting shook his head, finally letting out a sigh. The guard stood as tall as he could, despite an invisible weight that made his shoulders shiver. “I used a Satyr’s Paw, over one thousand years ago.”

Author's Note

This was a random idea that popped into my head, so here we go! Only a vague idea where this goes, so here we go!

For those not aware of the reference (Satyr's paw) Monkey's Paw

As a foreword, this is not a case of 'all-powerful OC woos princess,'
I highly dislike writing completely over-powered characters (no fun in that), so bear with me if this seems to be the case in this first chapter.

Chapter Two: Unbalanced Scales

His words rang out across the throne room prompting a disturbed silence from the two Equestrian rulers.

“Explain,” Princess Luna stated as she and her sister now both moved to sit in front of the unicorn. “We wish to hear you say exactly what a Satyr’s paw is, and we will correct your statement should it be false. The use of such an artifact is a severe crime and we wish to confirm you know what such an item was, and is, capable of,” Luna continued, Celestia simply nodding.

Such a powerful artifact; to think it was found and used, I thought them to be rare beyond compare.

“I found it. The paw was washed up on the side of a lake,” Shifting Sands began, head bowed as he sat in front of the two monarchs.

Of course. Such an evil thing has a mind of its own.

“A Satyr’s paw as I understood back then, and more so now, is an artifact of unimaginable power. Each outstretched finger of the paw indicated a wish, usually three. I found it with two wishes left. I knew it could grant me any wish my heart desired but the cost would be great and horrible. It is a cursed item where no good can come from it, so it was said. That much I knew back then.”

“And yet you proceeded,” Luna said, Celestia letting her sister take the lead. This did, after all, concern one of her Knights.

Thank you, Sister.

“I had no other option to save them.”

“Who? Do continue your tale, Private Sands. We wish to hear of what you have been doing for the past one thousand years.”

The unicorn shook his head briefly, not in refusal, but as though a series of gnats were buzzing in front of his vision before nodding.

“It was during one of the plagues, common things back then. My family was stricken and nothing worked, be it the medicine I bought or the spells used. I was the middle child and the only one not affected. My parents were elderly and hit the hardest with the illness. My two sisters and two brothers were also near death. They could barely move, despite all having been strong enough to be working at their jobs not one week prior.”

The plagues. We remember.

He took a deep breath, sides shivering. The previously stoic Knight now looked rather disturbed, his forelimbs shaking. Shifting Sands’ eyes seemed to glow a rather sinister red for a moment before the strange affliction passed. “I apologize. Moments of clarity are difficult to process for me; it usually all blurs together. Magic and emotions surge and mix and cause that unsettling effect, so I’ve been told. I apologize for the unprofessionalism,” he muttered, not seeing the surprised yet knowing glance the two rulers shot each other, nor the immediate words they exchanged silently.

‘We’ve both felt this, haven’t we, Luna? That lack of clarity, a breath leaves our lips and a day passes?’

‘Yes, but not to this extent. That was when we were adjusting to our timeless nature, this is a different case. His eyes though; an interesting side effect worth watching.’

“I found the paw as though fate itself gave it to me when all other options were exhausted. I knew the penalty both legally and magically, but for my family I would suffer whatever the consequences were. I did not wish for them to be well though, for I knew the Paw would give unto them harm. No, I wished to gain the power to save them; the power of the Alicorns or otherwise. I wished that I could save them so that they would all live out full and happy lives. Then I knew with such phrasing that the penalty would likely fall to me, rather than them. Or at least, I hoped.”

A noble, even if an ill-advised choice. Luna mused.

Shifting paused, collecting his thoughts briefly. “It worked though. After I made the wish and stood over my family, I could have sworn I grew wings briefly and a power I had never felt before coursed through my veins. The healing spells I had previously tried now easily burned the plague from their bodies and they were healed. As soon as it was done the power faded from me, at least as much as I could tell. I then put the paw in one of the local forges, the fire incinerating it once and for all, and I waited for the ill effects.”

An artificial and corrupt form of ascending perhaps? If for but a brief moment? The Paw must have used that natural process to its own means. At least it was destroyed by fire, the only thing that could purge that artifact from the world.

The unicorn didn’t apparently notice or care as a few tears dripped from his eyes. “I didn’t notice the curse for a long time. I grew up to be strong, eating perhaps a bit more than normal without gaining much weight but I thought nothing of it. My strength seemed to be greater than average, as well as recovering from wounds easier than most but I attributed that to my constant training and good health. A few years passed and my parents died of old age. I didn’t notice anything as I buried them, nor after my siblings got married.”

Blinking, the stallion looked around and nodded as though reaffirming to himself that everything was in its proper place. His eyes seemed to struggle in focusing on the rulers for a moment before returning to their floor-focused gaze.

“The first thing to truly make me realize something was wrong was when I finally asked a mare to a dance. I fancied her and thought it proper, especially as a newly-sanctioned Lunar Knight. I seemed to blink, and the dance had long since passed and I don’t think I ever attended. The Knights had been disbanded and I was simply a guard for a town I cannot recall. I blinked again, and she now had a happy family, while I now commanded multiple soldiers of a local garrison. My siblings were now old and had families of their own. I then understood the curse…how insidious the magic was.”

More tears ran from his eyes, and the stallion seeming to sway on his hooves. Shifting now looked up to the rulers, eyes clear and genuinely horrified. “Is this what it is like, your Highness’? To see time and love pass away in an instant?” he asked, then looking away.

“I dared not reveal myself to you, Princess Celestia, for a strange fear had gripped me. Likely of death or other punishment; I do not recall the reason nor specific dread. I then finally and fully realized the curse. Not a wrinkle dotted my face, my limbs were always filled with vigor, and most wounds healed at a surprising rate, yet my mind was weighed with a great burden. I was cursed with a physical body that would not yield to time and age even as my mind struggled to comprehend it all. With that discovery, I made plans.

It is odd, I can remember everything between the times I seemed to blink, but it is muted, fuzzy at times. I remember it all, yet it seems to skip years in leaps and bounds. I can go through each moment in clarity, yet it is all behind a strange cloth, dulled somehow. And then I blink and the moment is gone.”

The Knight continued to speak, still not noticing the cracks that appeared in both Luna and Celestia’s impassive masks. To hear a pony describe such familiar events was disturbing and saddening on a level too personal for them to articulate.

“To continue, I went forward with my plans; bought emerging stocks, property, land. If I was to never age, I would make sure I’d live as comfortably as possible. And I did; I had enough bits to buy an island or ten after but a few decades. By now, I could probably purchase all of Canterlot I imagine, but I don’t bother keeping much track anymore. I lived a noble’s life for a time; a mansion, servants I treated with dignity and kindness…and then watched them grow old and pass away as well.”

Pausing to see if the rulers had any questions, the Knight then continued, the words flowing like a keg of cider uncorked after a century. “I lived a generation like that but I grew tired of that life, and that was it. My cutie mark seemed to itch, indicating such a life was not for me. The closest I felt at home was when I was part of the Knights after all. Wealth had little meaning for me then as it does now, so I did what good I could with it, and then let my estates run on their own. And so, I sold it all, founded dozens of charities, funded them, and began to walk and learn.”

A serene smile then meandered onto Private Sand’s face, the most peaceful the two rulers had seen him as of yet. “For hundreds of years I walked and I filled my mind with knowledge. I was guided to defend any creatures that I could. My cutie mark seemed to drive me to roads, to towns, to civilization in some way that needed protection or aid. At each destination I found a way I could be useful. Perhaps it was a town needing a leader of their guards, defending a besieged settlement from some ruffians, or even guiding a lost family back to the trail on the roads. I must have traversed all of Equestria and the wider world countless times, seen the heights of Mount Aris, the glory of Griffinstone, and even ventured into the uncharted lands, as brief as those moments were, all in my quest to quell the strange force that drove me onwards.”

The unicorn’s face settled, a strange determination shining through his brown eyes as the pony’s features continued to smile ever so slightly.

“Throughout it all, I trained with masters of combat and magic, expanded my abilities to their limits, of which I discovered rather quickly. I was able to improve and expand my talents but only to a point. My physical body, I painfully discovered, was susceptible to harm but at a lesser degree than many. I have been wounded countless times but have shrugged off other grievous injuries that would lay out any other pony. And yet I was not invulnerable by far. And so, with those limits, I learned as much as I could, trained as I wandered. If I was to walk this land for such a time, then I wanted to be prepared to help as many as I could, and I trained for such.”

Shifting seemed to sit a bit taller now, as though retelling that portion of his life was a torch in an otherwise black abyss of pain. “I could not escape my curse, but helping others seemed to lessen the impact somehow, gave meaning to my life. I had the bits to pour into those who were touched by poverty, the will to organize and build a school, but defending the helpless, instructing others how to do the same? That was the closest I felt to being alive ever since using the Paw. It was those moments I felt most present in the world, the most real.”

His vision then darkened, the Unicorn looking to the floor. “The world has always been broken though, and in so many ways. Lesser as of late, but there is always something to help with, as is life. I helped, and gave all that I could. And yet there was always a corruption, a disturbed pony who destroyed a family, a noble with too much influence over a town, or a rogue faction who delighted in pain and suffering. I tried to fix it, I did fix so much. That’s what I feel alive doing after all; helping, defending, guiding. But there was too much. The hurt, the death, it seemed to overwhelm the good I and others were doing, but is that true? I don’t know. The darkness has slowly grown, and I have trouble seeing the good at times, despite it being all around me. It is distant, as though my efforts have been shoveling sand through a gold sieve.”

The unicorn’s hooves began to shiver slightly as Shifting’s brow narrowed, eyes darting across the floor as though scanning over a dozen enemies set to beset him. “So much pain, it blends together. I have to try to remember the good, because everything else is clearer. The deaths, losing friends I made, times I arrived too late to save a life, and times I simply couldn’t do anything but watch. Perhaps that’s part of the curse or a millennium of memories crammed into my head, I don’t know. I tried to fix it all, but whenever I did, whenever there was a happy community, I blinked, and something had happened. After every happy memory is nothing but death. I couldn’t fix it all, not even close, and I…I think…”

He looked up now, staring at the two in what appeared to be confusion, and a strange, unsettled sense of self-realization. “I think something broke after a while, your Highness. Something inside me did at least. I continued to help but it didn’t feel the same. I then heard of the prophesy of your return, or the afflicted version of you at least, Princess Luna. And so, I sought to then ask for your help, and your judgement. I certainly had not given up my vows, and was determined to prevent those cultists from succeeding. That said, I hoped that perhaps the good I had done would lessen my sentence but would not shy away from the final judgement of it all.”

The Lunar Knight bowed, taking a deep breath and nodding to himself. “In a concise manner, Your Highness’, that is my tale. I submit myself to you for judgement, in whatever manner that may be. If nothing else I would beg for your assistance in lifting this curse, so perhaps I may experience my final sentence in complete clarity, even if it is but for a day.”

Luna could only blink, emotions threatening to choke her words.

I…

“Wait here but a moment. We shall deliberate for a moment, for your situation in our kingdom concerns both myself and my Sister since you lived under her rule for the majority of your life.” Luna managed to say, the two Alicorn’s walking to a magically shielded side-room, usually meant for highly sensitive diplomatic talks and adorned only with a large table and some simple paintings.

As soon as the doors closed, Luna let out a shuddering breath, the younger ruler shaking her head. “Sister, what do we do? I cannot bring myself to punish him, not for this,” she whispered.

Celestia lay a wing over Luna’s shoulders, nodding slowly. While a bit more collected than Luna, her impassive mask was cracked, and the elder sister let out a sad sigh. “Neither can I. That Paw has punished him enough, I think. But he is your charge, Luna. He may have lived under my rule, but he is still one of your Knights and he expects a punishment. This is, however, a unique case.”

Luna nodded in agreement, managing to compose herself after a few moments. “I believe I have an idea, dear sister, but it will take a bit more time to plan out. I do have a temporary measure that will sate both Shifting Sand’s expectation for justice yet take into account his works, however. I believe once we have both contemplated the matter further we can proceed. But to do so now, with so much to take in, I do not trust myself to make an accurate decision, not yet.”

Celestia’s eyes twinkled as she gave her younger sister a hug, nodding in approval. “I think that is most wise, Luna. I trust your judgement completely. We may want to inform him however, of the curse’s nature.”

The two returned, sitting in front of the still-bowing stallion. Luna took a step forward, wings slightly outstretched. Armor returned to the Alicorn’s frame, weaving around hooves, barrel and head as the Princess of the Night looked down on the increasingly fearful stallion.

“Stand, Private Shifting Sands, and hear us!” Luna barked, the unicorn snapping to attention despite his limbs shivering. “You are hereby charged with the usage of a dangerous and forbidden magical artifact. Your immediate sentence is thus; you are hereby expelled from the Lunar Knights, effective immediately. Your rank and name shall be purged from the records, as such a crime has no place among those swearing loyalty to me as a Knight. Surrender your pendant!”

Luna held out her hoof, and the insignia was levitated over by Shifting Sand’s magic, the item vanishing as Luna sent it to one of many magical storage portals.

She then smiled, armor fading away on the wind like mist in the morning sun.

“For helping so many of our ponies, and striving to do good even while cursed by an evil spell, I pardon you fully of any other penalties using such an item held. You are to stay here in the palace for a time as our guest, at least until my sister and I figure out how best to assist you. Or, if you wish to go and return to whatever life you see fit, that is acceptable, provided you remain in Canterlot for a short period of time beforehoof. We intend to verify your tale of deeds and life, of course, but I detect no lies from you.”

As the unicorn blinked in shock, Luna’s expression fell, the Alicorn shaking her head slowly.

“Shifting Sands, we must however regretfully inform you that the ancient magic placed upon you has come and gone,” Luna said sadly. “There is nothing to dispel, nor current curse to fix. Whatever the Paw did to you transpired in an instant and affected you permanently.”

The Ex-Private flopped to the ground, haunches hitting the stone floor rather heavily. His eyes looked to Luna, the briefest look of betrayal flickering across his features. “You cannot lift the curse?” Shifting asked, only sorrow filling his gaze now.

“We cannot. I am sorry, Shifting Sands.”

The stallion clenched his jaw, head shaking back and forth slowly, looking to the floor. “And the sentence? That…is it? I am not-I don’t understand.”

Luna tilted her head curiously, hearing only confusion in Shifting’s voice. “Thou were expecting something else I assume? Death perhaps? The dungeons for a decade?”

Shifting nodded, features quivering slightly. “I was expecting for death, or perhaps a lifting of the curse to live out my days in exile. I was not prepared for freedom, nor for the curse to never-I’m, I don’t…”

Luna nodded slowly, interjecting as she could see the stallion’s state deteriorating. “You are indeed free with limits for now. We wish to further discuss how best to help you after processing all of this. Now then, some Guards will show you to some guest quarters and on the morrow, my sister and I will discuss your predicament with you further.”

Perhaps…

The spinning of a certain rogue and rather devious idea continued to form in Luna’s mind, and she had to resist the urge to clop her hooves together with a knowing smirk. It would help this poor pony immensely, at least she hoped. “In the meantime, Shifting Sands, we would recommend thou prepare a resume. If we are to help you, knowing your skills would be most welcome.”

Such a statement prompted a confused look from both Celestia and Shifting, but the Unicorn only nodded as two summoned royal guards led him away.

A soon as the doors closed, Luna let out a loud breath and pressed her head against Celestia’s shoulder. “That was difficult,” she muttered, feeling her sister nod in agreement.

“Hearing the challenges we faced laid out in such brutal terms, it was saddening indeed. I do believe we can help him though. You noticed how he appeared to be distracted? And those glowing eyes, that could indicate a magical and emotional imbalance,” Celestia mused, Luna nodding slowly.

“I believe he is stuck in an adjusting phase, the result of a broken and artificial form of ascension. You remember those times, Sister? We thought we were late for a lesson but it had passed a week ago? It took time to acclimate to the sense of not aging after earning our cutie marks, not in a normal sense at least. I fear Shifting is stuck in that previous time and instead of it passing in a few years it has continued perpetually. His mind has remained ‘mortal’, as it were, and is unable to comprehend it all,” the solar Princess continued, prompting a nod from Luna.

“I would agree. Would not a grounding spell solve it if we were to both amplify the power? I know it has assisted many traumatized ponies with their nightmares. Perhaps it can re-orient Shifting to his current situation and break that cycle?”

“It is worth a try, Luna. I think that particular effect is not from the Paw and therefore can be helped, at least somewhat. If successful he’ll have to slowly adjust, as he should have done naturally. I think the Paw afflicted him to watch those loved die as he endured. I do not believe the ‘fuzziness’ is part of that, since we have both experienced such. Perhaps the fear of me was initially given by the Paw however, to prevent me, or anypony from breaking that vicious cycle. But that seems to have worn off, perhaps the Paw did not expect any users to continue with their lives this long…” Celestia added, finally sighing with a tired shake of her head.

“I will retire to bed for now, and perhaps you should stay in your study with your two loyal guards. I’ll keep my soldiers on high alert as well. It has been a very strange night indeed.”

Luna nodded in agreement as they hugged, parting ways to their separate rooms. The Night Princess’s thoughts spun even as she retired to her room to watch over the dream realm.

One of my Knights, showing up here and expecting punishment? That poor pony has been through so much…I am surprised he is still sane.

Her eyes narrowed as she went about her dream duties on autopilot, a single phrase refusing to leave her awareness.

‘I think something broke, your Highness.’

Shifting Sands stared at the guards, leaden limbs leading him into an extravagant guest room suite. The colors were muted, golds and blues mixing together with ornate curtains and drapings along the walls, dark wood furniture giving the room a slight homey feel.

“The castle is still under high alert due to the recent events. Do not leave this room until summoned for breakfast, do you understand?” one of the golden-armored ponies barked, Shifting nodding swiftly.

“I understand, thank you.”

The guard then relaxed slightly, his companion nodding in approval. “Good job, by the way. Saving the Princess that is.”

The two then left, leaving the Unicorn alone with his thoughts.

Alone with my thoughts as always. The only thing to not wither and pass away but occasionally lead me astray.

Removing his magically attuned armor, Shifting enjoyed a long, hot shower, scrubbing as much dirt and grime off his body as possible. The steaming room was also a place to think, and there was quite a bit of that to be had.

The world seemed to shift slightly, and what felt like a few minutes turned out to be an hour, according to the clock Shifting glanced to as he toweled off.

More time that slips away…

That was the worst part of the curse. There was in a very literal sense, no time, and too much time. Love was impossible, friends were made and lost in a flash…

Nothing endured.

No. The ponies I helped; my legacy endured. Towns that are still safe, however few. Families allowed to flourish, their children allowed to grow up…No, any chance of having any sort of relationships are lost, all from trying to save those closest to me.

But at least I can ensure some good may endure in this world, however little. I saved my family, and my siblings had their own children, a form of a legacy. I couldn’t keep track of all of them all after a time; it all blurred together.

How can I remember every failure so clearly, yet all the good I have done slips through my grasp?

He let out a shaking breath, a few tears in his eyes. Clear moments such as this were rare when his emotions were allowed to flourish and resonate. In many ways, he had never been allowed to cope. He could feel it all churning under the surface, occasionally rearing its head like it did in the throne room. A torrent of emotion; his eyes glowing as magic sought to correct some strange imbalance…and then it passed.

And there is so much to process; perhaps someday it will all come crashing down.

The face of the one individual eased a bit of the tidal wave, the unicorn shaking his head.

After all these years, finally seeing Her again. For the first time it feels like I don’t have to keep wandering, being here at this castle. Maybe she will be willing to listen, to help me understand how to cope. I would ask Celestia, but…it’s not the same.

A certain memory rose to the fore, prompting a slight smile. It had been the first interaction with Luna the unicorn ever had; and it still was an ever-fond memory.

A simple stumble, a trip, and then hitting a rather soft, fuzzy wall. A helping blue hoof had then been outstretched. “Thou must be more careful!” the filly had said, Shifting stammering his reply to the Princess as she giggled. “What? Do we have something on our face?”

Shifting had only smiled, shaking his head as he bowed. “S-sorry your highness.”

“For what? Thou tripped! We are fine, but thou must be more alert!”

Hearing someone summon her, Luna had waved, leaving a very perplexed yet happy colt behind.

I had quite literally stumbled into her. How I wasn’t beset by guards instantly, I still do not know.

I’ve always felt more comfortable with her, I suppose. That’s why I enrolled in the Lunar Knights and talked to the moon every now and again. I may not know her, but I can at least trust her judgement.

Everycreature else I could trust is gone…

A song lyric rose to the forefront of the Unicorn’s mind; a modern creation that had inexplicably stunned Shifting for a few long minutes. Music was one of the few things that could ground him and keep the world still for a time. Played at a late-light DJ event but a week ago, nopony had noticed the tan stallion in the back of the packed room abruptly burst into tears amid the festive dancing. Wet streams of emotion spilling from his eyes even now, Shifting whispered a few of the words as he curled up on a bed, alone in the guest room in more ways than one. A soft pillow was clutched between his hooves, a small gesture to try and make the surroundings feel a bit more permanent.

“Days turned into years, and into centuries…”

Author's Note

'I wonder if people will like reading-OH SWEET BURNED MARSHMELLOWS!
Well, this exploded! I'm rather tickled so many individuals like it! Feedback is greatly appreciated of course, and I hope everyone enjoys the tale!

And now we have the curse is unfolded in all of its horrible glory. What worth is strength, vitality, and agelessness if anyone you meet vanishes in the blink of an eye? If, by the time you begin to register a connection with someone, they have aged a decade or more? In saving those he loved the most, he was cursed to be denied that connection for a millennium.

Concerning the Satyr's(Monkey's) paw and to clear up a few things- this is copied from the Wikipedia article concerning the story it is mentioned in, as to why it is a cursed item;
"An old fakir placed a spell on the paw, so that it would grant three wishes. The wishes are granted but always with hellish consequences as punishment for tampering with fate"

Hopefully I portrayed of how the seeming positives were now meaningless, in a situation which would otherwise be seen as a blessing. We get a bit of insight into the mind of a certain stallion too- the story will eventually balance in terms of viewpoints. (Half and half for Luna/Shifting)

And then there's parts of that aforementioned song that apply quite a bit to our poor pony. The Song

Chapter Three: Grounding

As Luna floated through the dreamscape her mind was increasingly occupied by the conversation that would ensue shortly. She had but a short time before meeting with Celestia over ‘Dinfast’, the meal where they could both converse without too much stress as the day ended and the night began. After that discussion they’d summon Shifting Sands to hopefully purge the disturbing side-effects of his timeless existence.

That poor pony, I am amazed he hasn’t gone mad. If not for my sister and the Elements I don’t know how I could have adjusted to the modern culture and…everything.

Without them, I certainly couldn’t have coped with the loss of everycreature I ever knew.

Shaking her head, Luna felt a strange awareness prick at her consciousness, and the Alicorn’s eyes narrowed.

A nightmare? No…what is this?

Diving into the dream, Luna immediately could tell whose it was; both by the odd mix of signals and the fact it originated from the guest room of the Palace.

Shifting, what is going on?

The world resolved itself into a simple field, a few distant trees lining the peaceful scene as snow-capped mountains soared into the sky. In a small clearing, a familiar tan stallion lay seemingly asleep. The outlines of ponies trotted around him, some bringing barely-visible meals to set next to Shifting, others draping blankets over the prone unicorn that also vanished into thin air.

Standing over the strange scene was the most curious pony Luna had ever seen. Easily five times the size of the other stallion, it shared Shifting’s brown colorations but had streaks of dark shadow that moved and swarmed over its frame, like storm clouds gathering in a valley.

Most telling of all however, was that the stallion’s eyes glowed a familiar red. Yet somehow the menacing appearance was softened by the peaceful expression on the pony’s face.

“Ah. Luna, is this from my mind? Or are you the real version. Princess Luna I suppose; I must maintain formality if real, sorry,” the large pony mused, looking her way.

“I am quite real, and who are you?” Luna asked cautiously.

The pony tilted his head curiously, gesturing calmly to the sleeping stallion. “Shifting Sands, Private- no, ex-private of the Lunar Knights. You know all that of course. I am he, or…me. Apologies. This is odd. I have never conversed with anyone other than myself when like this.”

Luna blinked, staring at two ponies in surprise. “I do not understand. Thou art dreaming? Lucidly or otherwise, are you not?”

Shifting’s doppelganger nodded, letting out a tired sigh. “This is partial lucidity in terms of dreams. I am a creation of my own mind, one of the few static figures in my life for the past millennium. With lucid dreaming I was able to create another entity of sorts, an advanced version of talking to myself. I’m at a half-way point of dreaming and lucidity I suppose.”

“And those ponies?” Luna asked, gesturing to the ghostly frames of the individuals that seemed to be comforting the prone Shifting Sands.

“The hundreds of ponies who have shown me kindness, yet I have trouble remembering their faces. This is one of the few times I can remember their acts, when I’m halfway between completely dreaming and lucidity. I can feel the times I was actually cared for, the few times I’ve felt anything…before it all vanished.”

The pony’s eyes then narrowed and clouds darkened overhead in an instant. The sleeping form of Shifting now grumbled, limbs spasming in distress as the ghostly ponies faded. Dark shadows began to creep into the peaceful scene, tendrils snuffing out any light where they touched.

“And yet for these moments of comfort, I can be my own worst enemy. My own mind will explain the brutal truths I am too scared to confront at times, laying out the harsh realities when I would seek to hide from them. I can be my own best friend in this realm, talking over self-reflections I have. Yet at times, things will-”

“Cease this, nightmares have no place here!” Luna barked, horn charging with magic as the tell-tale signs began to creep into her awareness. To her surprise, the pony looked at her almost sorrowfully.

“That will not do anything just yet, but I fear you are right,” Shifting sighed, massive head shaking slowly.

“But it is comforting to know you are watching over me, if only-” the apparition hissed, clutching his head. Fading into wisps of shadow Shifting’s copy vanished, and the beautiful scenery began to run together like a tainted watercolor painting.

Thousands of faces now blurred by, speeding past the two ponies faster than the eye could see, the only color amid complete inky blackness. The normal-sized Shifting Sands stirred, letting out a shaky sigh. “N-no,’ Shifting whispered, now sitting up and watching the faces all merge together into a multicolored stream that was without shape or form.

“Gone. Every creature I’ve known lost to the wind and I can’t even remember their names. It’s hidden behind some foul curtain, just out of reach. Did I ever really care for them then if I forgot them so easily? Was I ever really their friend if that was the case? Did they deserve a pony in their life who would forget them so easily, even though-”

“Shifting,” Luna’s tone was calm yet commanding, causing the scenery around them to freeze. Her horn ignited with a light blue aura, easing the dreamscape into a peaceful path. “Sleep, and be at peace.”

The stallion nodded, tearful eyes looking to Luna as the world spun back to the relaxing field, Luna leaving the now-stable dream to return to the mortal realm.

It was only after the Princess was in her own room, that she shook her head as her eyes filled with unshed tears.

Shifting, what dark thoughts have you convinced yourself of?

No, what things have you come to believe yourself? Things that we too once thought…

Levering herself upright, Luna meandered down the hall, catching Celestia on her way to freshen up before their nightly meal. “Lulu! I was just-Luna?”

Pressing her head against her sister’s shoulder Luna let out a sad breath. “Shifting’s dream was…disturbing. I feel he has convinced himself of some lies woven from his own doubts.”

“Hmm?”

As Luna relayed the dream, she was shocked to see Celestia take a surprised breath.

The Night Princess was even more surprised to see her sister lean on her now, sides shaking as long-buried emotion now surged forth at such a rare prompting.

“That is indeed a lie, a corrosive and destructive one at that. There were times I believed it while you were gone before I was able see the absurdity of it all. You helped with that the most, those times we talked after your return.

Luna nodded, smiling gently. “I remember. I too began to worry about the thought of it all.”

“And yet you say Shifting seems to have let those thoughts run wild, at least enough to spur an immediate nightmare. We had each other; we have each other. We are able to share our grief and break apart that lie if it returns. But who has this pony had?”

Simply shaking her head, Luna sighed, the pair breaking apart to meander the halls before their meal. “Himself in his own mind. I feel that is how Shifting has remained somewhat stable. He has only been able to see himself as permanent, yet that has clearly had unintended side effects. An echo chamber in which any diseased thought can eat away at the mind.”

The Alicorns didn’t speak much more of the matter as they got ready for their separate duties- one to retire for the evening, the other just getting started with her night. Luna’s thoughts began to turn to a more positive note, namely, of how to help their guest.

“You want to make Shifting what?” Celestia stared at her sister, Luna sporting a rather proud grin as they ate Dinfast together. While the dream event was still at the back of their minds, Luna’s proposal had caught Celestia off guard enough to shift the mood to a much more hopeful, if not incredulous, tone.

“You heard me, he’s the perfect fit! Have you seen the resume he wrote up? Can you think of anypony, nay, anycreature better suited for the task? My guards are woefully undertrained, as I have disturbingly discovered. They need a Drill Sergeant to get them back up to combat readiness at the very least,” Luna replied, prompting a raised eyebrow from her sister.

“Oh?”

“Indeed. It seems in their traitorous attempts my own Captain of the Guard neglected all other aspects in her deadly preparations. My guards have apparently been operating on autopilot, conducting their own training with mixed results. I fear I placed far too much trust in my Captain and am now and reaping the consequences of not being more involved. The numbers have been steadily falling over the years and now I am left with an untrained and disorganized force. My traitorous captain seemed to have ensnared the highest-ranking guards into her plot.”

Celestia sighed, rubbing a hoof against her temple as she scanned the parchment thoroughly.

The very, very long parchment. “Alright, Lulu, I admit this is extremely impressive. But that much responsibility? And you barely know him! And not to mention of the clear…coping issues.”

Luna nodded, waving a hoof dismissively. “And yet we know enough. The librarians verified many of his deeds from old newspaper clippings and the like, at least the ones intact. His name is indeed on many charities and old town registers for Sheriff, Guardspony, and a few mentions of Drill Instructor for local garrisons. And Sister, he did save my life. I knew Knife Twist for many years yet she was all too eager to betray me. It is not like we are starting him out with too much responsibility. Nay, a few basic tasks at first, especially with the trials besetting him for now. It will give him something to do, something familiar, and hopefully assist him in adjusting.”

The Solar Princess sighed, looking over the neatly drawn-up plan Luna had presented to her. “This is quite a lengthy plan and has some rather lofty goals for this pony, Lulu. And if he refuses?”

Luna shrugged, munching on a strawberry in thought. “Then he is free to go. This is just a proposal after all, one I think he will find most fitting. Shifting Sands said himself, he felt most ‘alive’ when helping and defending ponies. Can you not think of a better fit? He clearly lacks the hesitation some, nay, many guards have nowadays towards combat, and has the training experience born of hundreds of years! We will of course try the grounding spell first, and progressively see what he desires from this plan after he adjusts for a time.”

Celestia let out a defeated breath, a slight smile on her features. “If this is your decision, then I fully support it. It makes sense to me now why you didn’t ask him to renounce his ancient Lunar Knight vows- and no, don’t think I missed that detail,” Celestia chuckled, then nodding slowly.

“I would advise easing him into it though and I fully agree with a trial period of some basic training tasks. The grounding exercise alone will likely wipe him out for some time. With traumatized ponies, that usually takes a few days to recover; I can’t imagine what centuries of suppressed emotion will do to him.”

“We will advise him of that, and proceed however he feels most comfortable,” Luna replied, now eating a hole in her pancake and pushing her muzzle through, sticking her tongue out at her sister.

Celestia giggled, levitating two blueberries over to stick them on the pancake as fake eyes. “Quite a fashion statement, dear sister. Now then, shall we go help our strange guest? Apparently, he has been quite amicable, and has given the guards no trouble at all. He ate his meals, and slept most of the day after writing that resume. It appears he is mostly nocturnal too, or at least can vary his schedule.”

Luna nodded, the two rulers meandering down the halls towards the guest room after finishing their meal. The two royal guards outside the door saluted, and promptly opened the doors.

The stallion in question turned around, promptly bowing as the rulers couldn’t help but smile.

“Rise, Shifting Sands, and follow us please,” Luna remarked, such an impeccable display bordering on amusement.

Yet it remained respectful all the same.

Once again clad in his strange armor Shifting simply nodded, trotting out and following the two rulers down the halls.

“How are you feeling today? Yesterday was quite an interesting one to say the least. We would have fetched you sooner, but heard you slept mostly during the day,” Luna asked, prompting the stallion to look over in curiosity.

“Better, your Highness, thank you. And I can shift my schedule as much as needed, but as you said, yesterday was…interesting. Sleep offered some relief, at least for a time. Thank you by the way,” he explained, Luna letting out a soft hum in reply.

“You are most welcome, and are glad to hear it. Where we are going now is to one of the spell chambers. My sister and I may be able to lift the clouds that obscure thy mind so often. Sister?” the Night Princess said, then glancing over for Celestia to continue.

“The spell is used for traumatized ponies nowadays, and is a form of grounding. It re-energizes the magical pathways of a creature and assists in releasing suppressed emotion of a sort. It has shown remarkable success in assisting others come to terms with various events. We believe a form of this spell can break you from the ‘blinks’, as you called them, and end the strange disconnect you feel, if you are open to try.”

A sharp gasp hissed from Shifting’s mouth, the stallion staring at each of them in shock. “Really? Y-yes, of course! That, is possible? I thought it part of the curse…”

Luna shook her head sadly, letting out a sobering sigh. “Nay. We underwent similar adjustments for a year or two when we first adjusted to agelessness when ruling. Time was a fickle thing and emotion was strange to comprehend. We thought but a moment passed, yet it had been a day, and any feelings we had were like mist on the wind. We believe you simply have not been able to adjust to such a timeless existence. Your mind was that of a mortal pony, not aided by the usual magics present during an ascension. That, we believe, is what has caused the strange passage of time for you as well as the emotional barrier. This spell should allow you to break from both of those,” Luna explained, then stopping to look at Shifting with a guarded gaze.

“But be warned, Shifting Sands. If you accept this help, the repercussions could be difficult. Many individuals are emotionally unsettled for the better part of a few days. You have not a single event to come to terms with, but a millennium of existence. The effects will likely be exaggerated and long term. The ‘fuzziness’ you experience will be lifted, but the emotional impact of your entire life, or at least that affected by the Paw, will come back in full force.”

Shifting lowered his gaze, brow furrowed as he then nodded. “I understand, but still would like to proceed. I’ll accept being a complete wreck for a decade as a fair price to be able to feel everything fully again, to feel like I’m living in the present instead of on a speeding train,” he stated, head perking up as Luna gave him a gentle pat with a wing, the three then proceeding on once again.

“I doubt it will be that long, Shifting Sands,” Celestia interjected with a slight smile. “It will be the most difficult at first, but then normalize as your mind adjusts to the new reality. We believe you have been living in this ‘transition’ stage for some time, so it should, in theory, adjust naturally. You will have many tools at your disposal to cope however; the finest therapists in the castle, or speaking with us for a time, if you’d prefer.”

Neither ruler missed how the Unicorn’s ears perked up at that, Shifting immediately glancing to Luna. “You will let me speak with you? To help cope with all of this?” he asked, seeming both confused and slightly in awe.

“Of course. To say your situation is unique is a gross understatement. We certainly could find a few moments to help you adjust,” Luna added, not able to resist a smile at seeing the stallion’s entire demeanor soften slightly.

“I’d greatly appreciate that,” he whispered, eyes then turning to look at the stained-glass windows that dotted the current hall they traversed.

“Hmmm. The elements; such a new thing, and more useful than sword or spell at times,” Shifting mused to himself as they walked. The stallion’s words now seemed muted and without emotional connection, as though he was watching the passing of a theatre performance.

“Here, Shifting.”

Luna directed him down a side room, the barren stone hallway then opening up into a massive domed area. Bookshelves lined the walls, and thin glass slits throughout the curved roof allowed light to shine softly throughout the room. The floor was barren, save for a massive circular stone platform in the center.

Shifting paused at the edge of the platform, his ears pinning back briefly. “This is a place of powerful magic, I can still sense the residue of many spells long since cast. This grounding spell is going to be quite an ordeal, huh?” he asked, as though the entirety of the situation was finally registering.

“The spell itself is not complicated at all, a magical jump-start if you will. It has been tried and tested hundreds, if not thousands of times, from incidents as small as a traumatic childhood fear, to soldiers who have returned from rare but brutal instances of combat, and is formally recognized by the general health board. The amount of power we are using however, is well above normal,” Luna elaborated.

“Can you please explain exactly what I can expect, as best you can?” Shifting questioned, hopping up onto the platform cautiously.

“It will be a tingle, a rush of magical energy, and then a pressure all over you body. It will then focus on your horn or head in general, where you may experience a bit of pain for a moment. It will then pass, and it will be complete. Most ponies don’t even notice anything other than a strange, full body-buzzing, but I suspect those greater effects will occur for you,” Celestia said.

“Afterwards, you will be…erm, how best to describe it?” the Solar Princess mused.

“Bluntly. Please,” Shifting piped up, prompting a hint of a smile from Luna.

“You will be emotionally vulnerable and a nigh unstable. Not acting without restraint, but subject to the full swing of feeling you have been lacking. A millennium of bottled up experiences and realizations will hit you at once, and so mood swings will be very common,” Luna added with a nod to Celestia.

Shifting nodded, his brow furrowing with a sigh. “I suppose that makes sense. And you said that my mind just hasn’t adjusted to this…ageless-ness? Is that why I can feel things somewhat, but everything at times feels numb? I can’t remember the last time I laughed without restraint,” the stallion said, the thought causing him to shiver slightly.

“I’ve dwelt on that thought often, and it still continues to disturb me, nearly as much as not being able to feel like I’m living in the present, everything speeding by at times.”

“You are correct. In trying to comprehend the lack of age, your mind has defended itself by dulling your existence in both emotion and time. In effect, it was protecting you from an adjustment that never came,” Luna concluded, as Shifting sighed.

“Well. I wish to apologize in advance for sobbing in any hallways, throwing a dinner plate against a wall, or any other strange occurrence that will result from this,” he muttered, prompting an amused titter from each princess.

“Even if such is to occur, you are well forgiven in advance. Now then, are you ready?” Luna asked.

Shifting nodded, then raising a hoof in question. “May I return here as I am adjusting? I have some spells that I have used to provide myself comfort over the years, but don’t wish to alarm anypony.”

“Such as?” Celestia asked cautiously.

“Leyline connections, self-mediation spells, that sort of thing. Old magic in which many unicorns, kirins, and other species ‘communed’ with the land, if I can best describe it. Their language was rather difficult to process, being far-removed Monks,” Shifting admitted, prompting a nod in return.

“We would wish to see these magic methods before you employ them at length, but that seems fine,” Luna replied, taking her place a short distance from Celestia.

“I’m ready then, and your Highnesses? Thank you,” Shifting stated, taking a low and ready stance in the center of the platform, almost as though he was bracing for a blow.

“You are most welcome. Now, close your eyes please,” Luna instructed, her horn charging with magic as Celestia did the same.

The stallion shivered as the two Alicorns enveloped his frame with a glowing white mist, the tendrils of magic burrowing into his core.

A pained grunt then slid out from behind the unicorn’s clenched teeth, his head shaking slightly.

“Are you able to continue, Shifting?” Luna called, prompting a nod.

“Painful. Bad migraine. Continue,” he hissed, swaying slightly as the spell proceeded.

His head bowed down slightly as the mist around the stallion’s body hummed with power- and then the noise and light seemed to crescendo-And then it vanished, leaving the unicorn standing on the steaming stone platform.

“Well that was rather anticlimactic, other than the pain. The pressure was nothing,” Shifting mused, stepping down on shaking legs. “And the odd fatigue…hmm.”

Luna and Celestia looked to each other, the stallion’s words now seeming clear and genuine, and his brown eyes were now sharp and keen as he glanced to each of them before Shifting bowed his head. “Thank you both, I suppose now I wait for the after effects…I assumed they would be immediate. Things feel a bit different though, but nothing too drastic.”

Luna’s eyes widened in surprise, her sister blinking slowly as the stallion spoke. “Are you sure you are alright, Shifting?” Luna asked the stallion cautiously.

“I feel rather odd, as though something is slowly welling up, but otherwise ok. Why are you two looking at me like that?” he asked.

“Because you are crying.”

The stallion looked to the ground, and then seeing the steady stream of tears trickling from his face, swiped a forehoof across his eyes. The gesture did nothing to stem the steady river that flowed from his cheeks.

Only now did emotion twinge at his features, Shifting’s jaw clenching as his rump hit the floor with a thud, hind legs giving out. “I suppose I a-am…”

Looking to each other, Luna tossed her head to Celestia, the Solar Princess taking her leave silently. “Is there anything we, or I can do for you, Shifting? Do you wish to stay here for now?” Luna asked cautiously, prompting a shrug from the confused stallion.

“I would greatly appreciate it if you could stay, Princess Luna, if for but a moment.” Shifting’s ears flattened to his skull, the stallion looking away as though ashamed. “I’ve always found the moon and stars to be comforting, your presence as well, the few times we’ve met before. So…” his words drifted off with a slight shrug.

The alicorn nodded, eyes widening in slight surprise at his words, but agreed, sitting down next to the unicorn as soft sobs began to wrack his frame. He didn’t say anything at first, but the invisible weight pressing down on his shoulders was nearly palpable.

Shifting looked over to her ever so briefly, a hopeful idea seeming to spark- but he then seemed to think better of what thought passed through his consciousness.

Taking a guess, Luna scooted closer and spread a wing over Shifting’s shoulders, the slightly smaller pony’s head shaking slightly. “I t-thought it inappropriate,” he whispered, prompting a sad smile from Luna.

“We assumed such thoughts, but it is not, and clearly needed.”

No more words were said for a time, tears trickling steadily down Shifting Sand’s face as he leaned on Luna’s shoulder. The weight seemed to lift from Shifting’s shoulders slightly as he leaned against her side, a simple touch of companionship seeming to offer a bit of relief. He finally voiced a question that both made Luna’s own throat close with emotion, and gave heavy insight as to what tormented the stallion so.

“They’re all gone, aren’t they? Everycreature I’ve known over the past thousand years, they’ve really gone to dust, and yet I’m still here. Save the few; you, your sister, perhaps a few dragons, everycreature else is but ash. And yet I…”

Her response was as brief as the Alicorn could make it, not trusting her own words to remain as stoic as they needed to be at that moment. She had asked the same question to her own sister years ago, as tears had flooded down her cheeks on the week of her return. Luna’s words were similar to Celestia’s response then, and she hoped they would give as much solidarity as they had to her.

“Yes, and we remain to ensure their legacy lives on.”

Author's Note

I am still floored by how much people have enjoyed this story; I hope it continues to lives up to everyone's expectations! (And feedback is always appreciated!)
We get some more insight to our interesting stallion friend, and a piece of the plan Luna has for him. Hmmmmmm...
Poor Shifting though. For anyone who has experienced it, emotional numbness is...pretty weird. Even more disturbing is realizing it.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Chapters will be up as soon as I can get them done, but I've got summer Masters Degree classes starting..erm, today, so might slow down a bit. But this story SHALL CONTINUE!
-RB

p.s ....Oh. And to those so inclined, I would love some feedback for a different project... :moustache:
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Chapter Four: Crash, Hope, Remembrance

Luna sighed as she sat down, the ancient wooden doors closing seamlessly behind her.

“How is he?” Celestia asked cautiously, the younger alicorn then shrugging.

“Distraught. It is like my first week when I returned. He now is aware of the crushing realization that everycreature he once knew and called a friend is long since gone. I don’t believe he ever truly was able to accept it; the reality being dulled by his own mind. I-I cannot help but remember my own turmoil with this issue, nor your response, which I gave to him. My own words failed me, Sister,” Luna whispered, head shaking slowly as she continued, a tiredness now creeping into her voice.

“He will recover, but for now, he must come to terms with his loss. He is preparing one of his spells, and said we will hear when it activates so you may inspect it for safety,” Luna was then quiet for a time, a forelimb rubbing against the other in thought.

“You are pensive, sister,” Celestia mused, a simple nod greeting her words.

“It is…new to me, to be picked over you for something like this,” Luna whispered, prompting a wide grin from Celestia.

“Hmm?”

“Comforting ponies. They usually look to you for such a thing. I am not as approachable. To have a pony see me as comforting, to request that I stay because I bring him peace is…new. I am not as soft.”

A snort greeted Luna’s words, Celestia shaking her head.

“You most certainly are! I can see why the public may not see it however. You simply don’t have a thousand years of curated….” the Solar Princess searched for the word as she waved a hoof, Luna then jumping in as she stared at the floor with a slight frown.

“Tolerance for stupidity?”

“…I was going to say overwhelming patience when dealing with boneheads, but yes. You know that perhaps at times you may come off as too formal or forceful, but you’re getting better at it!”

A hoof then lifted Luna’s chin, Celestia’s beaming face split with a genuine smile. “But you’re still one of the most caring and gentle individuals I’ve ever known. It just takes certain creatures to see that, and apparently Shifting is one of them. If he finds comfort in your company, then he, at the very least, is able to see an honest glimpse of the pony I know and love.”

Luna’s mouth began to curl upwards in a smile, a low hum then drawing the sister’s attention. “I assume that is the spell…” Celestia mused, the pair making their way back into the casting room.

As the doors opened, the pair could only stare at the spectacle in front of them. A massive white glowing rune filled every inch of the circular platform, complicated symbols dancing this way and that on consecutive inner circles that spun inwards towards the middle of the circular pattern. In the center stood Shifting Sands, three beams of blue arcane energy coursing through his body and then diving into the rune once again like the tributaries of a river.

“In luna lumen invenio in me virtus mea, dum ego potest deficere, sed maneant,” the stallion whispered, tapping a few smaller runes at the base of his hooves and sighing, sitting down with a few deep breaths. A few tears trickled from his eyes even now, but seemed to slow as magical energy continued to course through the stallion and across his armor.

“In the moon's light I find my strength, for while I may fade it shall remain,” Luna whispered, the ancient poem itching at the back of her mind. She had heard it once before, a rather long set of prose concerning the night. It was one of the few poems that praised the moon at the time instead of the horrors of eternal night.

“This is a leyline connection rune, your Highness’s, but I assume you knew that,” Shifting remarked softly, attention drawn to the two rulers.

“This is the extent of the spell; it simply aids in meditating, feeling your own magic mix with that of the land. It’s o-one of the few things that hasn’t f-faded…” the stallions’s words began to stutter, the pony turning away shamefully as a few more tears fell.

“As difficult as this is, I can finally feel, or at least am starting to. So, thank you. May I stay here though? And perhaps then return to my guest quarters at a later time?” he asked, Celestia nudging Luna to take the lead.

“You are most welcome, Shifting. And you are our guest, so you have mostly free reign of the castle, provided you stay within the mostly-public areas. We will leave a medallion inside the door here for you, which will ensure you won’t be harassed by the guards,” Luna explained, noting how the pony’s shoulders seemed to relax at the sound of her voice. “Take as much time as you need to adjust; we have a proposal for you when you are ready, of how you may wish to occupy the time. But that can wait, and is not a request or order, merely an offer of help.”

Shifting nodded, taking a few deep breaths. “I understand, thank you. I will remain here for a time then. If it is permissible, how may I…contact you? I do not wish to disturb either of you unless necessary however, since I know you have many other duties.”

“We shall enchant the medallion with a communications spell, and leave a note of best times. It is likely those times will overlap meetings with nobles though…sadly,” Luna mused with a smile.

The slight joke elicited the barest hint of a smile from Shifting, the stallion simply nodding.

“We shall leave thee be, Shifting Sands,” Luna remarked as she and Celestia turned to leave. The Night Princess then paused, a gentle smile on her lips. “I don’t believe we ever formally thanked you for saving our life. So, thank you, Shifting.”

The stallion raised his head, bowing it briefly as a bit of life and determination slid into his eyes, pushing aside the sorrow for a time. “I would do it again in a heartbeat, Princess. I made a promise to you once, and I don’t intend to break that.”

“We are glad to hear that. And Shifting, if it is just us, Luna is fine.”

As the Alicorn left, she had to resist a giggle at the utter perplexed look that dawned on Shifting’s face… But the genuine care in his eyes made her steps seem all the lighter.

“He hasn’t left for five hours?”

“No, your Highness. We delivered some food as he requested, rather politely I might add, and then let him be.”

Luna sighed, nodding to the guards as she trotted along the hallway. She was unused to dealing with the Royal Guards as much as her own, but with the Night Guards skill and loyalty in jeopardy; it was a necessary precaution. The latter group was still undergoing a screening process, only the newest of recruits having been processed after the traitorous attack. The individuals who hadn’t undergone the mandatory magical and intensive personal interview were still confined to either the barracks or sent back home to Hollow Shades until they were summoned.

As for her guest, Luna though it best she check in on him.

She found Shifting in the same position as before, with leyline energy still coursing through his body as he sat on the spell-casting platform.

“Ah, your Highness…” Shifting began, brow then furrowing slightly. His eyes were closed, and a slight red tinge shone through from under his eyelids.

“Is everything well? I hope I haven’t-”

“Shifting, everything is fine. We are simply checking to see how thou are doing,” Luna interrupted, continually amused by the stallion’s assumption of wrongdoing. Amusing, but that can be so self-destructive, so best we provide a remedy for that as soon as possible.

“I am both doing well, and very…not so much,” the stallion remarked with a sigh.

“I need a distraction, but am unsure as to what that may be. Meditation can only calm me for so long. If I may impose, do you have a training area where I may exercise? Practice strikes, combat techniques and such.”

Luna nodded, still regarding the pony with a curious gaze. “Aye. I would be happy to open up the Night Guard training grounds for you.”

The stallion then chuckled, shaking his head. The laugh lacked the airy tone of previous utterances, this time carrying with it a bit of almost dark enjoyment.

“Forgive me, but I don’t think that will do. I would destroy the equipment rather quickly, as sturdy as it might be. I was hoping for something more…durable.”

The Night Princess couldn’t help but smile now, nodding as she pulled some parchment out of the Nether, scrawling a simple declaration before sending it on its way with a magical ‘zap’.

“I have just instructed the current guards to open up some of the equipment in a usually cordoned-off area of the training grounds. It is where I train, when I have the time. I think you will find it adequate. The punching bags are meant to be shredded however, and are easily repaired, replaced, and recycled, so fear not if that is the case.”

Shifting nodded, an eager smile on his face as he stood. The runes around him vanished into mist, the stallion’s eyes flickering red as he looked over to Luna. The tinge then vanished, Shifting taking a deep breath. “Thank you, Princess Luna.”

The alicorn waved a hoof dismissively, gesturing to the door. “Just Luna is fine.”

As they walked down the removed hallway, Shifting then paused, ears perking up in thought. “You mentioned that there was a proposal?”

Luna blinked, nodding cautiously. “Yes, but we thought it best to wait for a time, at least a few days.”

Shifting shook his head urgently, eyes beginning to glow an unnatural crimson once again. “Princ-erm, Luna, I would be very interested in what you have to say. I need a goal, something to occupy my time. Meditation is necessary, but I need a direction for the…things I am feeling. Until this point, I have always wandered, guided by where my cutie mark sent me. Now however, I feel as though I am to be here.”

“Very well, but may I ask; is that what causes the ailment of your eyes?” Luna ventured to ask, nodding at Shifting’s words.

She was not prepared to have the stallion nod, and then let out a hiss through his teeth.

“Of course it is the cause. What else could it possibly-” he caught himself with a sharp intake of breath, wincing slightly at his abrasive and furious tone. “Forgive me, Luna. There is a great deal of emotion simmering in my heart, and I am struggling to keep it in check and respectful. That is why I requested the training grounds, and kept myself away for the long hours. I do not wish to say anything disrespectful,” he admitted shamefully, ears flattening to his skull.

“It is alright, Shifting. I will not take any outbursts too seriously. As to the proposal, it is rather simple. Eventually, I have other offers to make, but this may assist you in having a task. This is not a request, nor order. This is an offer, from one pony to another,” Luna paused, then smiled ever so slightly. “Or, if you would like, from one friend to another, or at least the beginnings of such.”

The stallion’s ears immediately perked up, the unicorn nodding briefly. Emotion swarmed across his face; shock, uneasiness, and then genuine thanks and warm acceptance. “Friend? I’d…be privileged to be seen as such, Luna.”

The alicorn let out a huff, waving a hoof at his words. “You saved my life and have been nothing but respectful to me and my sister. I would be glad to call you a friend if not acquaintance. Now then, the offer is this. It has come to my attention that the Night Guards are woefully undertrained and underprepared for any event. That is, in part, due to trusting my traitorous Captain with their training. Be it intentional or not, their training and readiness has suffered. I need a Drill Sergeant to get them back into shape, and I would like to extend that offer to you, for I can think of nocreature better suited for the task.”

Genuine shock plastered itself across Shifting’s features, and then a flurry of emotions returned. This time his eyes actually appeared to dampen briefly, before the unicorn nodded, standing tall with a quivering smile. “I am honored by such a proposal…and I accept.”

Luna blinked as they continued to walk, head tilting curiously. “So easily? I would have thought thou would want some time to think?”

Shifting chuckled, a bit of darker emotion creeping through once again. “Your Highness, I have far too much time to think. Thinking is my enemy right now. All I can think about are those I have failed, and those I have lost. I-”

He paused, hooves drifting to a stop as tears promptly flowed from his eyes. “Sorry, these rapid emotional shifts are d-difficult,” the stallion whispered, taking a deep breath before walking a bit further, eyes starting to dry up. “I greatly appreciate such an offer, and am eager to start, at least after my mind settles a bit. With a goal, a purpose, it makes coping with things a bit easier.”

Luna nodded as they walked out of the castle proper, down towards training arenas set inside the mountain itself. “We thought as much. When we first returned, my sister gave me quite a few tasks. I was not sure why she suddenly burdened me with such things until she sat me down and told me. I realized then that such duties helped me cope. Instead of the reality of my situation crashing down at once, it trickled in through my duties and tasks. I hope this can do the same for you. I will admit the other motive is that my guards do need training, and you have clearly demonstrated the ability to get them back up to par.”

Shifting smiled, bowing his head as they trotted down a long stone hallway, lit by magical torches that ignited as they passed. “I fully understand the dual purpose of such an offer and am still flattered by it. Does that mean I am to be enlisted as a Night Guard? Or…?”

The unicorn definitely didn’t miss Luna’s eyes sparking as she grinned, the alicorn trotting along with a bit more spring in her step.

“Aye. But if you recall, I never asked for you to renounce your Lunar Knight vows either. But, first things first, Shifting Sands. You will be enlisted as a Drill Sergeant for my Night Guard, effective as soon as you are willing and able.”

Nodding in understanding, Shifting grinned at seeing an old cavern open up before him, then spotting primitive but sturdy and well-used equipment dotting the domed room.

“I am quite willing and able now, Luna. However, I do not trust my mental capacities as of yet. Until I do, I shall remain here training and meditating in the other room with your permission,” he stated, trotting over to examine a pile of canvas punching bags, and a pile of solid rocks net to them.

“Oh. This is perfect, Princess Luna,” Shifting said, eyes beginning to glow red. “If I may be alone for a time, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for opening up this facility for me; I feel it will make my adjustment much easier.”

“Of course, Shifting. My Night Guards may stop by the entrance, but I will instruct them to stay clear. The only one’s present are new recruits who may have gotten lost.”

“Thank you, Luna.” Shifting then turned to the punching bags, and began to load up one with rocks. “Oh…this is going to be fun,” the unicorn growled, levitating the massive object to hang from a chain embedded into the stone ceiling.

Luna hadn’t heard that much anticipation in the anypony’s voice in a rather long time…

Optional Music

http://www.infinitelooper.com/?v=N-ted7frO6U&p=n#/83;172

The sound of cracking stone echoed from the cavern’s walls, a lone unicorn ducking a swinging canvas punching bag to deliver a brutal kick. The remnants of the bag’s brethren were present against the wall, torn and battered from being used for the past few hours.

With each strike, the unicorn’s mouth moved almost imperceptibly, and yet even though not audible, words were present with every motion of his lips. Faces flashed to his mind, even as tears mingled with sweat that rolled from his brow and cheeks.

I can remember.

Copper Bit, he always had that stupid coin in his saddlebags, all the time. The punching bag groaned under a flurry of strikes, the stallion’s hooves shattering the rocks held within.

Dusty Barrel, he always ran the cleanest inn I’ve ever seen. The bag swung back, Shifting Sands meeting it with devastating hind kick that tore some of the canvas material.

Steel Flask. I swear he was addicted to that hard cider held in that metal container of his! More strikes tore at the bag, Shifting now letting out a growl as he felt his hooves begin to ache.

For the first time in years, the stallion could see the faces and names of his friends.

I was there. I was at their funerals…

More tears slid from the stallion’s eyes, making his target blurred and shimmer. I helped lay them to rest, celebrated their life with their friends…I did care.

Letting out a roar, Shifting sent a punch into the center of the bag causing it to rip and spray out gravel across the floor. His horn ignited with a furious flash, a blast of raw energy burning away the canvas and heating up the rocks to molten slurry.

His armor was long since discarded, and Shifting’s sides heaved for breath as sweat matted his fur.

I can feel. I can remember them all!

As he guided his magic to shove the ruined bag aside and hang a new one, Shifting caught sight of two yellow eyes staring at him from the entrance of the long tunnel. I wondered how long it’d take to be noticed here…

“I know Luna gave you an order to not come here. But if you are curious, you can stay in the tunnel and watch. Just be careful, I’d rather not hurt one of her guards.

An armored thestrel now trotted into the hallway, stopping halfway with a nod. If I saw a crying pony beating up a stone-filled punching bag, I’d be perplexed too.

Shifting finished hanging the new bag and began his routine. A series of left, then right jabs, some kicks, and then an all-out assault on the bag for a few moments, and then repeat. The small audience quickly faded from his mind, more faces now surging to the fore.

Shiny Turnip. I always thought your name was silly but you always grew the best crops in the province. I hope you were watching and laughing from the clouds as your grandchildren made your farm explode in popularity and then prosper.

The bag swung back, hitting Shifting in the shoulder with a thud. The unicorn spun, delivering a kick that turned chunks of stone to mere gravel.

Steam Gear. I never thought that engine of yours would work- but you did it. And your children revolutionized how to log and process trees and planks…

How could I ever forget any of you? A few tears sprang back to Shifting’s eyes, a slight growl leaving his throat. Tossing the bag aside with a surge of magic, the unicorn focused on five wooden pony mannequins in the corner. With a spark of arcane energy, they activated, drawing wooden practice weapons as they advanced.

I never forgot about you! You were always there…Charging the lone unicorn, the two earth pony mannequins swung their swords first, the two unicorn and one pegasi circling around behind him.

It could have been Shifting’s imagination, but he could have sworn a collective gasp arose from somepony’s that echoed through the chamber as he blocked the strike with his forelimb, grinning at the faceless combatant. His strengthened bones only ached slightly, muscles humming with energy at a blow that should have fractured his forelimb.

A single face stood out from among his memories; a young blue filly, happily waving him on, treating him as a pony rather than a mere commoner, the act making the colt smile for the rest of the day. A proud Lunar Princess welcoming him to her personal guard with a quip only he would have understood. And most recently, gentle shoulder to lean on, providing comfort where none was to be had else ware?

You’ve always been there, haven’t you, Luna? I wonder if your guards know, if Equestria knows what I do? Can they see your grandeur? Your hidden playful spirit? Can they see the pony that I swore to defend with my life?

The training dummies swarmed the unicorn, Shifting blocking strike from wooden sword, knife, or hoof. His eyes began to glow, a determined smirk edging onto his features. Tapping the floor, Shifting caused a rune to ignite across the ground, white bolts of arcane energy zipping across his frame. Jumping and delivering a punch that shattered the wooden skull of a dummy, Shifting skated towards another, the blow with his shoulder shattering the unicorn’s durable structure.

As the training ponies began to regenerate, the unicorn yanked a familiar saber from his discarded armor on the side of the cavern, the edge glowing a soft white. The glow from his horn brightened even further, a shield of sand colored magic weaving itself into form on his left forelimb, hovering and awaiting his command while the sabre held out with his magic in front.

Now he knew there was somepony muttering but Shifting paid it no mind. With a smile, he glanced at the magical shield and the saber, the familiar tools feeling like another appendage after all these years. Emblazoned on the shield’s front face and the sabre’s pommel, was the ancient sigil of the Lunar Knights.

I never renounced my vows, and perhaps someday I can be worthy of that station once again!

With a roar, the unicorn charged towards the dummies, his weapon beating the others to splinters, shield blocking strike after strike.

Copper Bit, Dusty Barrel, Steel Flask, Shiny Turnip, Steam Gear… I remember you all, and so many others.

Luna’s words flashed to the front of Shifting’s mind, the stallion beating the nearest wooden pony’s face to a pulp with his bare hooves.

“We remain to ensure their legacy lives on.”

Shifting’s eyes continued to glow as he sent a magical command to five more training dummies, sharpening the edge of his saber with a growl. And so I will. Their legacy, my legacy…and to protect Her.

As the ten opponents charged, Shifting readied his shield and saber with a bellow. “COME ON THEN!”

Even the clash of wood and metal that ensued couldn’t drown out a few cheers that emanated from the tunnel entrance.

(end music)

“Erm, your Highness?” a royal guard asked respectfully, stifling a yawn. “I apologize for the interruption, but there appears to be a gathering at your private training grounds.”

“Thank you, Corporal. I’ll see to that.”

A grumble left the Alicorn’s mouth as she trotted out of her private study, heading towards the caves. It was almost time for her to lower the moon; and she was fatigued both from the day or two of interesting events, as well as her duties in the dream realm.

I expected my guards would eventually find Shifting, despite the note. But so help me, if they are interfering I’ll….

Her jaw dropped on seeing over two dozen thestrals gathered in the hallway, the nearest waving to her and prompting a slight smile.

I always did see them as family more than subordinates, as it should be perhaps, remaining loyal after all these years.

“Princess! Have you seen this guy? I mean of course you have. He said we could watch by the way, so it’s ok!” the bat-pony squeaked, her grey-furred ears swiveling as the sounds of combat echoed through the cavern.

Making her way through the tide of similarly-colored thestrals, Luna sat down near the front, her Night Guards parting to make way. She wasn’t concerned about another betrayal, not from this bunch. These appeared to be some of the newest recruits, and had been the first guards to be double-checked after the incident a day or so ago for true intent and hidden motives. Barely a month into training they likely hadn’t even fully understood the traitorous events that had transpired.

Of course, they’re the ones to find Shifting. I suppose they’ll be the first to be taught…so how appropriate.

She then caught sight of the stallion, and the Alicorn’s eyes could only widen in surprise.

Dancing among ten training dummies, Shifting Sands was a blur of movement and arcane energy. His sabre lashed out to sever the heads of three at once, while the shield held to his left blocked strike after strike, occasionally smacking the head of an opponent who got too close.

“He’s been like this for hours….it’s incredible,” one of the guards whispered to Luna’s left.

Something seemed to stir within the stallion in front of her, Shifting letting out an enraged roar as he battered one of the dummies with his hooves, breaking off a limb or two before stomping it with his rear hooves. All the while, his eyes were aglow with a brilliant crimson sheen, and Luna’s sharp gaze noted both tears and sweat occasionally dripped down Shifting’s cheeks.

And yet the stallion was the most alive Luna had ever seen from him. Every move was delivered with precision and the utmost power, no holds being barred as he engaged his ten opponents. Every block with his sabre and shield was impeccable, yet there were times he disregarded both and used just his hooves.

It was like watching an artist paint a glorious masterpiece, or in this case, forcefully deconstruct one. A thousand years of training….

She saw a smirk dawn on Shifting’s face, the stallion tapping the ground with his hooves. Determination seemed to fill the unicorn’s frame as the ten dummies arrayed themselves in front of him.

“Ut nocte confirma ubi infirmus sum!” Shifting bellowed, the rune surrounding the stallion igniting with a blue light that made every pony wince.

The new recruits now gasped, a light blue half-moon now shining brightly above the stallion as energy licked across his sweat-plastered frame. His weapons were now discarded, and Shifting’s raw blows surged with power, energized by the spell he had cast.

The slightest blush now dawned on Luna’s cheeks as Shifting battled, the words of the spell reaching up from her memory. “May the night strengthen where I am weak,” Luna whispered with a smile, not able to tear her gaze away from the stallion.

He’s fantastic…

She blinked, thankful her thoughts were not broadcast to the awed ponies surrounding her, even if she had no reservations about such a statement. You are quite a stallion, Shifting. I only hope we can help you adjust to this new life, as my sister helped me.

The dummies now shivered to a stop, Shifting’s spells slowly fading away as he gasped for breath. With a flourish to the ceiling, the sabre was then stowed as the shield vanished. Only now did the unicorn turn to fully look at the crowd, thestrals stomping their hooves onto the ground in approval. A bit of color rose to the unicorn’s cheeks at the sight, his brown eyes meeting Luna’s for a brief moment.

The Alicorn’s heart skipped a beat as she saw nothing but adoration and determination in Shifting’s gaze, the unicorn then taking a mock bow. What are you thinking, Shifting Sands? What other surprises do you have for me?

“You two, can you please inform Shifting where the showers are?” Luna directed to the nearest guards, the new recruits happily nodding and guiding the stallion down a side-hall, Shifting nodding to Luna respectfully with a slight smile.

As the thestrals dispersed and Luna made her way back to her own quarters two brown eyes refused to leave her mind. And the emotion that had swirled within them gave Luna pause at every recollection.

Author's Note

And now we get to see another glimpse of Shifting's fighting abilities, and his adjustment.
He never really forgot his friends; you don't forget those you loved.
And now he can vent a thousand years of frustration with a millennium of training.
Oh....YAY BAT-PONIES! These poor recruits....

A bit of a break before the next chapter; still working on balancing school and the other two stories I've got going (Trying to finish one of them up, because two is manageable.)
...I also want to have a definite outline for this story, since this is about as far as I planned it other than a general idea. But it will, of course, continue with regular uploads! :twilightsmile:

Feedback is appreciated; as well as any errors that may crop up. I am aware of the line-spacing issue, because Fimfiction sometimes doubles/adds lines where there were none at times....so I have to manually delete them if the current tool doesn't fix it. Every. Time. I. Upload. :pinkiecrazy: But thank you to those who have pointed it out!

Chapter Five: Accelerated Adjustments

“Your Highness?” a royal guard remarked, holding out a sheet of parchment for Luna as she waited for a few petitioners during the night court.

“Ah, excellent, thank…you…” Luna’s voice drifted off as she read the report. “WHAT?!”

The guard quailed slightly, Luna waving a hoof dismissively with a sigh. “I apologize. I was not expecting such…disturbing results. You are free to go, and thank you for the prompt news.”

The guard trotted out of the throne room, leaving Luna to sag on the throne, her two loyal guards, Dancing Iron and Spear Note looking to each other.

“That bad?” Dancing asked, prompting a sigh from the Alicorn.

“That bad. To use a certain Element of Harmony’s exclamation, however dramatic, this is, truly, the worst, possible, thing,” Luna replied, letting out a huff. “We were lucky that night, one week ago,” she said softly, prompting her guards to nod in agreement. “No, not just lucky. If not for Shifting we all may not be alive. Speaking of which…” Luna gestured to Iron briefly.

“Can you please summon him? It’s best he hears this report too. After all, he’s hopefully our solution to this issue…”

“Your presence has been requested, Sir,” the royal guard remarked to Shifting, the unicorn stallion setting aside a water bottle that was nearly empty; the result of running for an hour.

“Oh? Lead the way,” Shifting replied, a pleasant burn running through his limbs. A week of mediation and brutal combat exercises had done wonders for acclimatizing to his situation. While the mood swings were still there, they had finally begun to lessen. He had removed himself almost completely at first, not trusting his own words among others let alone Luna.

He didn’t want to lose a friend to a rash outburst, yet now he had finally begun to feel…normal, if there was such a thing for his condition.

The audience of thestrals each night had swelled to about thirty, many coming and going to watch his workout routines like a late-night theatre. He didn’t mind, for it was easy to lose himself in the workout, and any stage fright had long since been burned out hundreds of years ago.

What Shifting did find interesting, was that Luna always poked her head in to watch such training, even if it was briefly. I wonder if she’d like to spar sometime…

The stallion grinned as he was led to the throne room, not bothering to put on his armor. It was in the middle of Luna’s Night Court time, something Shifting had begun to realize was unusually open. I suppose ponies still fear her in a way. Understandable, but odd.

“Ah, Shifting. Good, now we can continue,” Luna remarked as the stallion sat down in front of the two familiar guards.

“Erm, continue what, your Highness?” Shifting asked, then noticing a parchment levitated by the Night Princess.

“A report concerning our guards; your new task has arrived. We thought it best for you to hear it. We have not read beyond the initial proclamation, which was rather dire.”

Shifting nodded as Luna then sighed, wings drooping slightly as she read and relayed the message, the Alicorn’s demeanor seeming to age a decade in but a moment.

“The top ranks of my guard have been completely removed. The two here are the highest-ranking Night Guards at the moment. It appears that Knife’s attempt was one of what should have been many,” Luna said, prompting Shifting’s eyes to narrow.

“If she failed, a separate, isolated group among the guard was to try again, and so on and so forth, until they succeeded. The ponies in question weren’t even Thestrals, merely disguised as such. A full two thirds of my guard have been completely purged. Furthermore, they clearly had connections outside the guard, meaning this is still an ongoing threat.”

A multi-cell terrorist group? Unusual, but not impossible…

The two guards looked at each other in shock, then back to Luna who could only stare at the parchment as Shifting stayed silent.

“Wait. So, the entire Night Guard, currently, is made up of….?” Dancing piped up.

“You two and a bunch of new recruits. The traitors saw to it that the only ones recruited for some time were loyal to them,” Luna hissed, massaging her temples.

“How could I have missed this? To have so many of my guards….”

“Princess, please don’t,” Iron rumbled, head shaking slowly. “You have a kingdom to run and a realm to patrol. It is logical for you to miss such things. We lived among these ponies for years and suspected nothing. If anything, we bear the brunt of this failure.”

Luna smiled, the loyal Thestral’s words easing the guilt that had begun to grow in her heart. “How about a deal? We will try to not focus on our guilt, if thou will do the same for yourselves?”

The two bat-ponies nodded, smiling slightly as they glanced to Shifting; the stallion having been easily forgotten as he had remained silent the entire time.

“Shifting? Do you have any remarks?” Luna asked, noticing the pony’s ears snap to attention.

“If you wish, I did not think it my place to offer such things,” Shifting said, appearing a bit confused. His words prompted a slight huff from Luna, who levitated the parchment over to him.

“You are, for all intents and purposes, a Drill Sergeant for my Night Guard. I believe there is plenty you have to offer, and we would hope you do so now and in the future. I did not expect such extensive traitorous actions let alone how insidious and deeply they ran.”

Shifting nodded slowly, eyes scanning over the parchment. His demeanor seemed to shift slightly, the unicorn almost sitting at attention as the pony let out a soft hiss.

This is a severe blow to security. I don’t like it.

“It is disturbing news but not surprising. Your guards are correct; you could not have foreseen this,” Shifting began, still looking over the report, “This was an extensive and well-thought out effort by a few dissidents, and the threat indeed does remain. I fear they will try for other, softer targets now that you are aware of the threat.”

Celestia? Maybe. But others…

“But what do they want? There is no ransom like in the days of old, no territory to be gained. I am aware that warfare has changed since my return, but this is different,” Luna muttered.

“They wish to spread chaos, it would seem. To sow discontent and anarchy. Killing one of the rulers of a nation would do such a thing. Perhaps it is at the whim of another nation, or one who could benefit from such strife and chaos,” the Ex-Knight remarked slowly, his tone then shifting. The room seemed to grow a bit colder as Shifting looked up to the guards, and then to Luna, his eyes radiating nothing but caution. I know these types of creatures, ponies…

“Some creatures just want to laugh as the world descends into madness. When enough of such individuals work together, you get this result. I would recommend….” his words trailed off, prompting Luna to gesture with a hoof.

“Continue? You are about as close to an expert on this sort of thing that I know.”

I suppose I am…

“I would recommend additional screening of the remaining guards, including deep magical scans for buried arcane triggers. I would not put it past such creatures to embed a mind control spell into even the most loyal of guards,” Shifting continued, nodding as he spoke. His tone bore the determination and assurance of one who was speaking from experience rather than mere book knowledge.

“Of course, I will gladly submit to such scans. Furthermore, I would recommend reinstating an organization comparable to Princess Celestia’s Legionaries. Until the Night Guard is back to full strength, it would be best to assemble a group of trusted and elite individuals for your own protection, and work out from there.”

Luna’s eyes seemed to sparkle with eagerness at his words, but the stallion continued unphased- not entirely sure why she seemed so pleased at his words.

“I am still adjusting to the emotional swings, but I believe I can start training the new recruits if nocreature else can. You do not have time to wait for me to fully recover. If two thirds of your guard were indeed compromised, I can assure you there are at least four times that number spread throughout the world with the same goal.”

His sobering words caused Dancing and Iron to look at each other, a pit of unease growing in their stomachs.

“Thank you, Shifting Sands, for your recommendations,” Luna said, taking a deep breath and nodding to herself. “As unsettling as they be, I fear you speak the truth. I will send the Night Guard manual to you tonight so that you may have some time to prepare for your training within the next few days if that is permissible.”

“It is. The first steps are evaluating their physical condition, which is easy enough to train and instruct,” Shifting replied, then pausing briefly. “Your Highness, if I may be so bold. How much authority are you giving me to ensure your Guards are up to par?”

“As much as you need,” was Luna’s immediate reply, prompting Shifting’s eyebrows to raise. “Assuming, of course, you pass the enhanced examination, and are comfortable with such.”

Shifting’s only reply was to bow, a rather eager grin sliding onto his features. “I am honored, Princess. Would it be too forward to request such an examination tomorrow so that I may begin training the recruits as soon as possible? I’ll begin reviewing the manual at once with your leave.”

Luna nodded, waving a hoof as the stallion turned to trot back to his quarters. Shifting could have sworn, however, an equally eager grin was twitching at the Alicorn’s mouth.

“Sweet burning moons this is embarrassing,” Shifting muttered, smacking his head onto the large tomb dictating the Night Guard requirements. He had spent most of the night yesterday, and half of this day pouring over the manual, which left him more than a bit confused. “Seriously? Minimal combat training, focus on immobilization…I suppose the Lunar Knights were true warriors. This is nothing more than training them to be-”

“To be what, Shifting Sands?” Luna asked, knocking on the slightly open door and prompting the stallion’s ears to perk up. He bowed his head in greeting and then winced.

“Sorry, Princ-erm, Luna. I am apparently more out of touch with the guard curriculum than I thought.”

“Aye. You are having the same reaction I had when learning of such things. The guards are not what they used to be; and it makes sense, in a way,” Luna mused, sitting down and then…blushing?

“Apologies, may we intrude on your studies?”

Shifting’s head tilted, not entirely sure what she meant by that, but nodding all the same. “I don’t see how you could ever be an intrusion, but of course. Please, if I may ask how it makes sense? I think I have an idea but it may help put my thoughts in order.”

Luna nodded, gesturing to the large manual with a shrug of her wings. “With the Elements of Harmony, villains previously defeated by spell or sword are turned to our side. This is a much more preferable victory than the alternative. Until they came about, my sister ruled with such alternative means for a millennium. Now that we are at peace, we’ve trained our guards for years to utilize less lethal methods. Were you saying that we were training them to be, say, glorified police-ponies?”

The Alicorn couldn’t help but smile in remembrance of the past warriors and standards. “In a sense, I suppose that is accurate, but only in terms of duties; they are of a much higher caliber than those in towns, but are for more formality more often than not. However, they are still soldiers and nonetheless must be ready for such eventualities. The rare threats that do require anything more…permanent in nature are usually delegated to my Sister’s Legionaries, as it is not the responsibility of Royal or Night guards to do so. I have mused over reinstating my Lunar Knights for some time, and this may be that moment. While combat is an integral part of guard training, it is rarely lethal in nature, as you have likely read.”

Shifting nodded as she spoke, hoof tapping in thought. I’ve got my work cut out for me; dozens of guards that need a bit of sandpaper and steel to get them into proper shape.

“Will that be an issue? Teaching largely less-than-lethal capacities to the guard? There are only a few techniques that dictate lethal force. Your previous position was comparable to that of a legionnaire. You….” Luna’s words drifted off, tone then becoming a bit more unsure.

“You are more hardened than the majority of ponies, Shifting Sands. These guards will likely never raise a spear against a threat yet must be prepared to do so. The brutality of war is something they must be exposed to, but only just. You are not training them to occupy your previous position, Shifting.”

The stallion’s eyes drifted to the floor, the unicorn nodding slowly. “I understand, Luna. It is going to be difficult because that is how I have lived for so long. I will do my utmost to temper my expectations and such to conform to these requirements. Of that I promise.”

His answer seemed to satisfy Luna, and the Alicorn beaconed to him with a wing. “I have no doubt you will, Shifting. Now, if you are prepared, follow me. We will complete your screening, and formally reinstate you,” her mouth then slid into a smile. “Well. Not to a Lunar Knight, yet. Come!”

“Of course…wait, Yet? What?” Shifting squawked as he scampered after the Alicorn- and was that a giggle he heard? Oh. That’s just evil. Is that what she is planning? I suppose my intentions in that respect would be remarkably easy to read. But that’s cruel Luna, teasing me along, oh so cruel…

As he trotted after the Princess, Shifting couldn’t help but smile. This felt normal in a strange sense. Seeing a bit of playfulness emerge from the reserved individual so many feared, and now able to be in her guard once again. A thousand years, and I’ve come full circle in a way.

The pair entered a familiar spell chamber, Dancing and Iron were there as well, looking to Shifting with a reserved gaze. I don’t blame them. I’m still an unknown factor to everypony. I’ll change that soon enough!

“Now then, Shifting, I assume you know how these scanning spells work? I ask a few questions, and will ensure your responses hold no hidden meaning? You must be completely truthful, otherwise it will indicate you are hiding something. I will also scan for hidden spells, as you suggested. Do you agree to undergo this test?” Luna remarked calmly, horn lighting up as a series of runes flashed into existence on the platform.

“I understand and completely agree,” Shifting replied immediately, hopping up to stand amid the runes. The unicorn took a few deep breaths, trying to clear his mind as best as he could.

Luna nodded, sending a flow of magic in to the runes as they ignited with power. A magical field intensified around Shifting; a river of blue color appearing above the brown stallion’s head. Lies and deception, conscious or not, would appear as colorful splashes as the questions progressed.

Now then, Shifting Sands; an official test of your intentions and resolve.

“Your name is Shifting Sands, correct?”

“Yes.”

Luna watched the colors, not sensing any tug on her magic in any way. “Have you committed any crimes other than the one you admitted to us prior that still must merit justice?”

“No- I don’t know.”

A flash of orange, and Luna’s eyes narrowed. “Explain, Shifting.”

Orange? Unsure emotions…

“The laws changed. I lived within the law of my time, worthy of my Lunar Knight title at all times. Yet now, I may be convicted of slander when centuries ago, it was a good-spirited jesting match. It is like that, to various degrees.”

The colors now flowed blue again, and Luna nodded. “That is acceptable. As long as you have lived within the law of your time, and worthy of that title, I will accept it.”

The Lunar Knights had such a high standard of living. I am stunned he has lived within that…

“Do you have any damaging intentions towards me, the crown, or ponies at large?”

“Only those that seek to do you, or others harm.”

Interesting answer.

“On accepting the position of Drill Sergeant, do you promise to uphold the tenants of the Night Guard? To guard Equestria, myself, and all of its inhabitants against those who would seek to do them harm in any way?”

“Yes.”

Luna smiled, a memory worming its way to the surface. I wonder if he will remember that joke I made…? “One final question, Shifting Sands. Do you intend to bump into us on occasion?”

“Y-I…wait, what?”

The colors in the test exploded, Shifting’s poor mind flatlining as Luna giggled, closing down the spell. “Apologies, Shifting. We couldn’t resist.”

A soft chuckle met her ears, even as her two guards looked at each other curiously.

Nay, they wouldn’t understand the humor…

Shifting’s gaze however, made the Lunar Princess’s heart skip a beat. His brown eyes flickered to hers briefly, a genuine and caring smile dawning on his features for the barest of moments.

“You remember?” his voice was a soft whisper as the stallion stepped off the platform, eliciting a single nod from Luna.

“Of course.”

Shifting opened his mouth, but then seemed to decide against whatever words lay dormant, the unicorn’s eyes seeming to dampen for a few brief moments. Without warning, warmth spread through Luna’s frame, the Alicorn seeing nothing but genuine care behind Shifting’s oaken gaze.

Perhaps I’ll ask him about that…

“So, did I pass?” he asked, causing a certain Alicorn to smile.

“Indeed, you did. Welcome back to the Night Guard, Drill Sergeant.”

The stallion took a deep breath, nodding to himself as a steely grin set itself onto his features. “I’d like to see the troops, Princess Luna.”

Shifting blinked as he surveyed the dozen thestrals set out before him, each clad in training armor as they stood at attention. Luna was sitting off to the side, no doubt still curious as to how he’d handle the new recruits. The entire training ground was built in a massive underground cavern on the edges of the Canterlot Mountain; no doubt designed to accommodate for the Thestral’s natural light sensitivity. A large blue crystal cast a soft light over the entire grounds which was dotted with simple wooden barracks, an armory, training track and arena, and a few other essential buildings such a mess hall.

Shifting nodded in approval as he scanned the recruits, his keen eyes flickering over their armor. Violet breastplates with the half-mood sigil gleamed in the dim light, the armor meant to provide realistic weight rather than full protection for training.

Well, they know how to polish their armor and have it look immaculate. That’s…actually really good.

“Let’s get a few things out of the way first, at ease everypony,” Shifting began, walking up and down the line as they relaxed. Luna had indicated that his own unique armor was an appropriate substitute until he could get fitted for some custom material. Hopefully I can just combine the two. I’d rather have my own armor than the bland metal stuff.

“My name is Shifting Sands and I will be your new Drill Sergeant. I am not a Thestral, no, but I am fully qualified to instruct you on how to perform flawlessly within the Night Guard.”

Hmm. Perhaps I’ll wait on the whole ‘I’m older than your ancestor’s great grandpa’ bit…

“Now then, I do not know how much you have heard, but these are the facts concerning the Night Guard at this time. The Ex-Captain of the Night Guard was the leader of an attempted assassination attempt on Princess Luna. Said attempt was unsuccessful. As a result, over two-thirds of the Night Guard have been purged for traitorous intentions; these individuals were not even Thestrals, merely disguised as such.”

Shifting watched the various reactions; impressed that only a few sharp hisses reached his ears. A few murmured, but there were no outbursts. Good so far. “Unfortunately, whether by design or happenstance, the traitorous ex-captain seems to have neglected your training. I will not hold it against you if you do not meet some of the requirements at this time, so do not worry. There will be a catch-up period, and that is what will be judged, both during and after. I would like a raise of hooves; has anyone run and passed the required physical exam and endurance tests in the past month?”

Half of the hooves went up, and now Shifting saw a few faces wince. “Let me rephrase. Can one of you tell me if you’ve been required to run those tests with feedback in the past month? That includes combat tests as well.”

A hoof raised- and Shifting nodded to the mare.

“Your name?”

“Silty Stone, S-sir.”

Hmm. A bit of a quaver…not that I blame them.

“Alright then, Silty. Can you answer the question for me?”

The mare stood up straight, her yellow eyes narrowing slightly. “Sir. We were left to our own devices to train, and have not received any feedback for weeks. Both for the physical training and for combat we were just left to figure it out after the first week a month or so ago. I will admit that such an order didn’t help in terms of improvement or motivation for myself at least.”

Weeks? No feedback? That means they may have reinforced improper technique…Ooooooook. Basics it is.

“Thank you, Silty,” Shifting remarked, noting how a small group of stallions seemed to glare at the mare briefly. Hmm. There’s always a few in a group who don’t like a change in regiment, and outing a relaxed schedule. I wonder if that’s these lovely stallions…

“Well then. Let’s start at the basics. I want everypony out of their armor in ten minutes. Meet me at the endurance course, and we’ll start there with physical training. Once you all can pass that, then we’ll move onto the combat session. Dismissed!”

As the recruits trotted off, Shifting made his way to the endurance section of the training grounds, seeing Luna nod in approval before teleporting away for her other duties. I’d like her input; perhaps I’ll ask for such the next time I see her.

It was a simple circular track, complete with obstacles such as sand pits, barbed-wire crawls, muddy sections, bamboo barricades, and a few other difficulties. What made Shifting’s heart sink was the state of the combat section.

The magical mannequins were rotted into pieces, and the obstacles meant to provide a simulated attacker or defender were in equal disrepair, metal and wood barely held together with rivets, wire, and magic. What used to be a course that tested one’s ability to both strike and defend, now only offered a hotel for termites. With a frown, Shifting took aim at a dummy, his punch shattering the wood into splinters.

Increased strength or not, that shouldn’t have happened. He mused. This didn’t happen in a month. I’d say more like six…Luna did say she hadn’t been overseeing them as much.

The recruits now started to arrive, a few of them staring at the shattered dummy on the ground. “Alright, we’ll start simple. A few miles jog, and then one circuit of this course.” Shifting called out, his keen ears picking up a whisper from a group of familiar stallions.

“Easy for you to say….”

The Drill Sergeant had to resist a chuckle, opting for a grin as he trotted towards the course. “Well? Let’s go recruits! Don’t expect me to be standing on the sidelines for these; that’s not my style!”

It was when they were about two-thirds through the mile that Shifting noted a few were beginning to lag behind, the unicorn’s brow then furrowing.

Well. Looks like I have my work cut out for me. Time to whip these guards into shape! Literally in this case, minus the whip.

“Keep it up recruits! Round might be an acceptable shape in a filly puzzle, but not in the Night Guard!” Shifting barked, making sure to be ahead, but not too far ahead of the pack.

Oh, I’ve missed this.

Author's Note

Some ponies just want to watch the world burn...the sorry state of the Night Guard.

Still working on whittling down the number of stories, and my masters homework, and job...YAY LIFE! Apologies for the late chapter- should be fairly regular now, hopefully :pinkiecrazy:
In other news, thank you everyone who voted on Celestia's poll! IT HATH BEEN DECIDED! And I'm rather excited to write that tale, but first things first.

....Oh. And to those so inclined, I would love some feedback for a different project... :moustache:
Friend Poll

Chapter Six: Bumps In The Road

“Good! One more lap and you’re done for today, meet at the track entrance when finished!” Shifting barked, watching the trainees trot onwards. A week, and they’ve already met the minimum standards. Not bad, not bad at all. Their combat appears to be a bit rusty but nothing unfixable. As soon as the new training equipment comes in that’ll help quite a bit.

As he watched the dozen thestrals run the obstacle course, Shifting’s mind drifted back to this morning, or technically, the evening a few hours ago. The exchange was causing no small amount of tumultuous thoughts for the stoic stallion. The past week, Luna had asked the same question when seeing him; yet today had been different.

‘How are you, Shifting?’

‘Well enough. Yourself, Luna?’

The Alicorn paused, a sad smile dawning on her lips. ‘If thou will not tell us how you truly are, we must do the same.’

‘What? I-I am sorry, Luna. I didn’t mean to lie to you.’

‘No, nopony does, for it is not a full lie, merely that of omission. Of course, such distance is what is expected; Nopony really wants to hear the truth when asking ‘how are you?’. Not usually, I feel. I would though, if you are willing.’

‘Only if you do the same, Luna. To answer your question again…I am coping. The mood swings are less, training has occupied my mind, and I am feeling a semblance of normalcy. I have enjoyed your company however brief at times. And you?’

The Lunar Princess blinked, words seeming to fail her briefly. ‘I am well, Shifting. The situation as of late has me troubled, but I am thankful a pony like you has stepped in to help; it puts my mind at ease. We have enjoyed watching your exercises; it is rare to see such skill nowadays.’

Shifting had grinned, ears perking up at a thought. ‘Would you like to have a sparring match sometime, Luna? If that is appropriate?’

He had never seen the Alicorn look so flustered, yet a simple nod was her answer.

‘Perhaps after I run the trainees ragged? Or tomorrow if that is fine?’ Shifting ventured.

‘W-we will check our schedule. We must go, Shifting; talk to thee later!’

Shifting’s brow furrowed, as the stallion realized a gentle smile was on his lips. He had noticed then, and remembered now with perfect clarity the beautiful blush on Luna’s cheeks at his question; a blush that was increasingly common now that he thought about it.

That could mean many things, all of which are very complicated.

And yet through it all…

Are those complicated things so bad?

The Sergeant shook himself from his stupor; thankfully there was no rush on analyzing feelings, of which were still a bit tumultuous. Instead, he had to focus on the problem at hoof. Namely, a problem named Bitter Blade.

Shifting sighed, head shaking slowly. The stallion held so much promise; yet the small remarks over the past week had grown in frequency and intensity. It was only a matter of time now before the stubborn Thestral challenged him openly. His two boneheaded lackeys were hardly the issue though. Perhaps that would come to a head today….

Watching the trainees, Shifting nodded in approval as he noted a pack of seven, led by Silty Stone. The mare had proven herself to be a competent leader, gathering individuals who wanted to train and practice together. She had also shown promise in combat but time would tell.

Still. Those are good signs. Ah, here we go. This will be interesting.

The dozen trainees from the first group began to gather; the other two-dozen on break throughout the underground compound. Shifting rotated them through with the same curriculum, but this group held the most promise and showed the most progress.

Well, except for three, the larger of them chucking about something or other to his buddies.

“Good job everypony. You’ve all made significant progress this week, and for that I am quite pleased,” Shifting began, pausing as a loud laugh reached his ears. “Is something funny, Trainee Blade?”

Silence greeted his question, the Drill Sergeant continuing.

Aye, this is it. Just like the dozens of other times some stallion wants to show off. Maybe I can turn it in his favor eventually though.

“We’ll be getting new combat training equipment this coming week, so then we can start- Trainee Blade. Front. And. Center,” Shifting growled, the afore-mentioned stallion trotting to the front with a lackadaisical sigh.

“Sir?”

“What is so amusing, Trainee?” Shifting asked calmly.

“May I speak freely? Sir?” the Thestral seemed to spit the last word, the Drill Sergeant nodding.

“Go ahead.”

“Everything about this is funny. You, the training. The rumors; they don’t know what to do with us, do they?”

Shifting only raised his eyebrow, but saw a few other Thestrals shift uncomfortably.

Aaaaah. Perhaps I should have nipped this in the bud earlier.

“Suddenly two thirds of the guard are gone, some of our friends apparently traitors? Then a random unicorn gets promoted and we’re just supposed to listen to you?”

“Yes. Because those are your orders,” Shifting replied calmly, but that only seemed to infuriate the Thestral further. The Drill Sergeant then gestured to Silty Stone with a hoof calmly.

“Trainee Stone, please fetch the other trainees. I suppose they should hear this too.”

Now it was Bitter Blade’s turn to look slightly uncomfortable. “What are you doing?”

“This is not a view just held by you, is it? Many have been questioning why I am here, the state of things, and so forth. Is that correct?”

Bitter nodded, now seeing the other two dozen thestrals starting to crowd around. “Well yeah. You say you’re qualified? And we’re supposed to trust that? I’m as loyal to Princess Luna as the next, but this just seems wrong!”

A few affirmative murmurs rose up, and the rising tension caused Shifting’s fur to prickle. “Wrong? I was interviewed, found of appropriate skill, and put in charge. How is that wrong?

“Because we don’t even know if you’re loyal to her! I don’t buy the rumors, many of us don’t!” Bitter growled.

The air itself seemed to chill, and many of the Thestral’s eyes widened. Shifting’s eyes glowed a dull red, the Drill Sergeant wincing as he took a deep breath to keep his emotions in check.

“I will say this once, and only once, Trainee Bitter Blade. To question a guard’s loyalty is to directly challenge their honor. That is a grievous offence, and I will forgive that trespass once, since you do not know of what you speak,” Shifting growled. Don’t press me, kid. Please don’t…

“Or what? Honor? What do you know of it? I’ve heard the rumors, and I say they’re garbage.” Bitter continued, a few more voices adding to his declaration.

“Bitter, back off,” Silty hissed, shaking her head.

“Oh, shut up. You’ve eaten up everything this stallion has spewed. I want to know what is going on. Who are you, Drill Sergeant? Sure, I’ll challenge your oath, because many of us don’t believe it! You’re in the night guard? How? There hasn’t been a non-Thestral in-”

“One. Thousand. Years.”

Bitter blinked, Shifting Sands standing up and trotting to stand nose-to-nose with the muscular stallion. The bullish Thestral was able to look Shifting eye to eye, yet he now began to quail at the furious emotion in the Unicorn’s eyes.

Luna trotted down the stone halls curious as to see the progress with the Night Guard trainees as always. As she neared the training area, a gaggle of voices caught her attention.

“Because we don’t even know if you’re loyal to her! I don’t buy the rumors, many of us don’t!”

What is this?

She secluded herself to the side, hiding in a rocky gap to listen in on the exchange. A simple spell was all she needed to put her viewpoint on that near the congregation of ponies, watching as the event unfurled.

“Let me address your first accusation, and then I will address the rumors,” Shifting began, eyes still glowing a sinister maroon.

“You have directly challenged my honor and my loyalty, Trainee.”

“Yeah? What of it?” the emboldened stallion replied haughtily. “What are you going to do about it?”

“Put your muzzle into the dirt unless you immediately apologize for your offense.”

Bitter chuckled, shaking his head. “Yeah. No. I’ve seen your training sessions. You’re great against dummies, but fight a real pony? That’s not the same. You won’t touch me; you’re welcome to try though. I’m betting all bark and no bite from you.”

Shifting’s head tilted to the side, the unicorn’s horn glowing ever so slightly. “Oh?”

Bitter opened his mouth to reply, and Shifting struck.

Lunging forwards the unicorn’s hooves sparked with arcane magic, sending him slamming into the stallion with enough force to drive the wind from the insubordinate Thestral’s lungs. Whipping his hooves around, Shifting sent Bitter cracking to the stone floor, legs splayed out to the side.

An arcane blade ignited along Shifting’s hoof, and more than one Thestral gasped as the Drill Sergeant sent the blade plunging down, embedding itself not an inch from Bitter’s horrified eye as the magical blade threw off sparks as it stuck into the stone.

“You will stay there, Trainee, until I say you can rise. Do you understand?” Shifting asked softly, and Bitter could only nod, still gasping for breath.

“This is a simple lesson, Trainees. Asking a question kindly will often yield a better result than insults and challenges, as demonstrated,” Shifting explained, shaking his head sadly at Bitter. “I’ve seen so many like you, Bitter Blade. Ponies like you turn into some of the best guards I’ve ever seen, or on the other end of the spectrum, robbing caravans on the road,” the unicorn paused, shaking his head. “Only one of those paths ends well for such ponies. Now then. You are correct; there hasn’t been a non-thestral in the Night Guard in over one thousand years.” Shifting stood tall, tapping his rear hoof twice.

A rune ignited around the pony, blue tendrils of magic peeling off the odd leather cladding that wrapped around Shifting’s armor, the stallion’s jaw clenched as he addressed the shocked group. “Until recently, I was Private Shifting Sands of the Lunar Knights, initiated into Luna’s private guard over one thousand years ago. The rumors concerning such are true. That includes my age and my intervention in the Princess’s assassination, yet how much that has circulated I do not know. I was there during the height of the Guard, when Luna lost herself to jealousy and envy, warped and taken by a creature of darkness. I was there, Trainee,” he now turned to Bitter, the other stallion’s eyes wide in shock. “And you dare question my loyalty? You know nothing of that. Perhaps the noble beginnings of it though, and because of your history. But of loyalty and honor? You have much to learn.”

The leather now fell away fully, revealing dark blue, almost black armor that covered Shifting’s torso, forelimbs, flank, and hindquarters. Emblazoned on the front of the battle-worn armor was the half-moon symbol of the Lunar Knights, magical energy still crackling across the battered metal’s surface.

“If you had asked, I would have told you, yet you resorted to challenging me,” Shifting sighed, taking a deep breath, his eyes still glowing crimson. “These are my credentials, Bitter Blade, and to anypony who is questioning. For one thousand years I have trained hundreds of creatures to defend the innocent, and walked the lands to do so personally. You speak of loyalty, Trainee? You cannot fathom it, not yet. Now get up, Trainee Blade, and listen to me.”

The stallion scrambled upright, watching as Shifting began to pace in front of the crowd. “For one thousand years, I retained my vows as a Lunar Knight! For one thousand years, I walked this land defending those who could not. Back then I used a forbidden artifact to save those I loved, and in doing so was cursed to watch my friends and family fade with age. But there is one thing that never faded.”

Shifting continued to walk, his voice growing louder and echoing off the walls of the stone cavern. One by one, the Thestrals began to stand at attention, driven by the spectacle in front of them.

“Do you all understand where you are right now? Your race swore loyalty to the Princess who many scorned and feared! You all hid from the world to avoid the persecution that followed, and yet you remained loyal! You awaited her return, and you stand in the training center built for the sole purpose of fulfilling that loyalty!”

With a hoof-tap, Shifting sent Luna’s symbol upwards, the moon shining in the dim light of the training cavern. “For one thousand years, loyalty and honor was all I had. I swore to Her once, and I never took that back! From the time I first met Princess Luna until now, I never forsook my oath! Friends turned to dust, creatures I dared to fancy grew old and faded, but one thing remained; one pony remained! I saw her every time I woke up at night and looked up at the moon, even as I blinked and watched towns wash away; One. Pony. Remained.”

Silty Stone’s eyes widened as tears ran from Shifting’s glowing eyes; yet the stallion continued, gesturing to the moon that shone above them.

“Some say she is but a goddess, a cruel and harsh creature, but we know better, don’t we?”

A few thestrals began to nod, a slight smile dawning on Shifting’s features. “Maybe some of you only are going from the history passed down from generations, or perhaps others have talked with Her enough to understand. She is neither perfect, nor a goddess far removed from reality. She is a pony, one who is more kind and noble than so many realize. Even as I watched everything I ever loved fade away into dust, there was one pony who didn’t, one kind soul who remained, and even now remembers me,” Shifting whispered, his armor seeming to glow slightly.

“Over one thousand years of wandering has led me here. One thousand years of wondering if I’d be remembered at all, if I had done any good in this world that seemed to try and battle against it. And now after a millennium, I have my answer. If any of you wonder now if Princess Luna is as the legends say, let me put that to rest. For every legend regaining her heroics in battle, I can say it does not do her justice. For every tale speaking of her kindness, I can declare they don’t even capture a thousandth of her care.”

He gestured to the thestrals, all of whom snapped to attention. “You are not only swearing to protect Equestria! I don’t know how clear it was made to you, but it was made crystal clear a millennium ago when I joined the Knights. That said, you are not Lunar Knights, but still Night Guards. However, the oath is the same!”

Shifting stood at attention himself, the rune shining a bit brighter as he surveyed the trainees. “You swore to protect these lands, and also Princess Luna herself! You swore to protect the one who raises the moon, the one who’s work gives light to every romantic night you’ve ever had, the tireless pony who comforts every foal’s nightmares, and the one keeps the shadows of evil at bay until daybreak, without toil or fail!

“We operate without much recognition, much like her, but with no less duty and honor! You swore to protect Equestria and you swore to protect her. That is the oath of the Night Guard!”

Shifting stood tall, walking down the line of Thestrals. “So, I ask, is that indeed your oath? Do you still stand by it? Yes or no? WHAT SAY YOU?” he bellowed, thirty strong voices immediately answering in unison.

“SIR! YES SIR!”

“I can’t hear you!”

“SIR! YES SIR!

“To whom do we swear our loyalty?”

“Princess Luna, Sir!”

“As daybreak falls?”

“THE NIGHT WILL RISE!”

As the roar of voices echoed off the cavern walls, a certain secluded Princess couldn’t help but let tears run freely down her cheeks, even as a teleportation spell yanked her back to the castle.

Proudly looking at the group of Thestrals, Shifting nodded in approval, hoof tapping as the rune faded from sight, the stallion taking a few deep breaths. And now they know…

“Everpony is dismissed, and we’ll resume our schedule in a few hours; Wait, you stay, Bitter Blade.”

As the others filed away, a very contrite Thestral walked up to Shifting, his head held low.

“S-sir, I’m sorry. I didn’t-”

“Trainee Blade,” Shifting remarked calmly, causing the stallion’s head to rise. “I am here today because of second chances. I could not rest at night if I did not extend such a courtesy to others. I was not mincing words earlier though, I think you could be a fantastic guard, and I would hate to waste that potential,” the Drill Sergeant added, a slight smile edging onto his features. “So, Trainee, get cleaned up and enjoy your break. There won’t be any record of this, but do not make me regret this decision, do you understand?”

“SIR!” The Thestral snapped to attention, trying his hardest to not grin as he then trotted off back towards the barracks.

Shifting let out a relieved breath, a simple spell summoning the leather wrappings to once again cover his old Lunar Knight armor. She never did ask me if I had it, nor to turn it in…

Teleporting himself back to his converted guest room in the castle, Shifting shrugged off his armor, looking forward to the shower to clean off a few hours of dust, sweat, and grime from his coat.

A knock at his door caught Shifting’s attention, the stallion trotting over to open it- “Luna?”

The Alicorn’s eyes refused to meet his, instead darting across the floor for a few moments. When she finally looked up, Shifting’s own eyes widened. Turmoil swirled behind her teal gaze, the Princess’s voice seeming to fail her.

“Did thou mean it?”

Shifting blinked, head tilting at Luna’s whispered words. “Did I mean…?” his eyes widened, the only logical conclusion presenting itself. “If you are referring to everything I said to the trainees, every word.” And yet I could have said so much more…

“F-forgive me if this is inappropriate.”

He was about to ask what exactly Luna meant, but the tight hug she yanked Shifting into quickly answered the silent question.

“Thank you, Shifting,” her whisper was barely audible, her sides shivering ever so slightly.

A caring smile dawned on the stallion’s face, and felt Luna take a surprised breath as he returned the caring gesture. He didn’t miss how the Princess then seemed to hug him just a bit tighter after that.

“You are most welcome, Luna. And it’s not inappropriate at all,” he then paused, not able to resist. “If anything, I’d say it’s also needed.”

A soft giggle met his ears, prompting the stallion to blink. A giggle? That’s new…

“We haven’t heard anypony say such flattering things in so long.”

“Flattery implies they aren’t fact and only said for favor. Neither of those are true in this case.”

Shifting could have sworn the Alicorn grew a few degrees warmer at his words, Luna taking a step back with a smile and a very definite blush on her cheeks. I could get used to seeing that, quite an adorable look. …wait. Adorable?

“You are perhaps too charming for your own good, Shifting Sands,” she murmured, rustling her wings briefly.

“I’m here to talk, Luna, if you want,” Shifting interjected, and the Lunar Princess nodded, the gentle smile on her face not fading.

“We will keep that in mind, but have some duties to attend to. Take care Shifting, and thank you.”

As the Princess trotted off, the stallion blinked, sitting down in the center of his room in thought.

Well. That was a thing that happened. Hugged by a Princess again. And that blush, I am definitely not imagining that. I’m surprised my words touched her so. Surely others must have said things like that? What would make me so speci-”

It was at this point Shifting’s mind ground to a halt, the gears of emotion and logic meeting in a moment of clarify. Such a moment made him walk to the shower in a stupor, and the stallion promptly stared at the wall for a good long few moments in the steam. His realization was summed up in a single syllable, a slightly unsure but definitely affectionate smile then beginning to meander onto his face.

“….Oh.”

Celestia yawned, stretching out to her full length across the large billowy bed. Soon enough, the alarm would ring, and then it’d be time for-

A soft knock drew her attention, the Solar Princess opening the door as she sensed a familiar magical signature outside. “Lulu? What’s the occasion?” Celestia asked, more than willing to sacrifice ten minutes of relaxation for her sister.

On seeing Luna plop down at the edge of the bed and let her face smack into the plush mattress, Celestia knew something had come up, especially as her sister let out a groan.

“We are troubled.”

“Yes, I can see that,” Celestia giggled, her eyes widening as Luna looked up, a blush on her cheeks. “Oooooooh, I haven’t seen that look on you in some time. Is it what I think it is? Let me get some tea,” she added, prompting an affirmative grumble from the Lunar Princess.

Author's Note

HAIL THE PRINCESS OF THE NIGHT! Shifting finding his groove again!
As always, thank you for the feedback, and I hope everyone is enjoying the story!

Chapter Seven: Step By Step

Celestia was all smiles as she surveyed her sister, the other alicorn staring at a half-empty teacup. “I hardly see the issue,” the Sun Princess mused.

“It is not appropriate…” Luna mumbled halfheartedly, prompting an amused huff from Celestia.

“Shining Armor is Captain of the Crystal Guard, a co-ruler of the nation, and married to a Princess. While a bit of a more drastic example, I don’t think that’s the main reason of your discomfort. Am I wrong?”

The grumble that sounded over a teacup was Celestia’s answer, the alabaster Alicorn not able to suppress a laugh. “I’ll take a well-educated guess…does it have to do with returned feelings? Because that is an easy thing to settle.”

Seeing a pouty glare sent her way, Celestia continued with a grin. “Weren’t you the one telling me how frustrating some nightmares could be? How if some ponies just communicated, so much drama and heartache could be avoided? I think that was you…”

A louder grumble reached the Solar Princess’s ears, prompting a smug titter. “Surely I could be wrong? I recall somepony complaining to me on seeing two ponies nearly break up because they didn’t talk about something at one of those late-night discos you visit now and again…”

“Ok Tia, we get it,” Luna pouted, setting down her empty teacup. “We are new to this. We-I was so busy before the Nightmare Moon incident, I just didn’t really have time to consider these things. And now, things have changed so much. Every time I think I’ve figured out a social norm, I find something else that is…odd.”

Celestia chuckled, levitating the tea items away with a sigh. “Well, welcome to the social circle nowadays. I think it’s weird for everypony. But back to the point; remember that Shifting is still coming to terms with everything too. I think that’d be a place to start; because you both might be nervous about this, for multiple reasons.”

Luna let out a tired breath, nodding slowly. “And thus we see why I am glad to have you as the older sister. Thank you, Celly.”

A brief hug enveloped the younger alicorn, Celestia smiling to her sister. “Anytime, dear sister. I’m quite happy for you and wish you nothing but the best. You do know I’ll have to play the protective sister part if things do start to work out though, right?”

Luna returned the hug, stifling a yawn as she glared at her sister playfully. “Thou better not barbeque my first genuine interest in a thousand years!”

The innocent look Celestia tossed her sister sent both into giggles, the rulers bidding each other good day and night as they sent their respective celestial bodies on their way. Luna settled down in her room, final thoughts spinning around her mind.

How in the world should we go about this?

Luna awoke with a yawn; a few minutes before her alarm, as always. The routine was completed; greeting her tired sister, grabbing a bite to eat, and then meandering towards the throne room.

What she wasn’t expecting was for Dancing to wave her over, the mare seeming to have a sly grin on her features.

“Princess! Message for you,” she called; and Luna noticed that Dancing’s companion was oddly absent…

“Oh. I sent him to run an errand. Sergeant Sands wanted to know if you were interested in sparring at your earliest convenience?”

Luna blinked, only then realizing a smile had immediately spread across her features, as well as Dancing’s.

“I-thank you, Dancing.”

“Permission to speak freely, Princess? Mare to Mare?” Dancing asked, prompting Luna to snort.

“Dancing, thou hast been one of my most loyal guards for years, and I am glad to call you a friend as well. Of course.”

“Well, as a friend then, may I ask if this is just sparring? I do have to evaluate any security risks to you,” the Thestral teased, prompting Luna’s face to light up in a blush.

“W-what? What else would it be? A date? No, nothing like that yet. Why would thou ask such a thing?” the alicorn stammered far too quickly.

The smug grin on her guard’s face was enough to send Luna into an immediate pout, however.

“Like that, yet?” Dancing grinned, her wings shuffling along her back. “I don’t mean to pry, Princess. But I thought it best to ask. I’ve seen a few mares glancing his way at times…” a soft snort then left Dancing’s muzzle; the mare then not able to resist a cackle. “Y-your eyes. Oh dear, Princess. You’ve got it bad, huh?”

Luna blinked, only then realizing her eyes had narrowed and her wings slightly flared at the mentioning of the other interested mares.

“You have caught us at an unguarded time,” she mumbled, prompting her friend to smile.

“Well, we like seeing you unguarded; well, personality-wise at least. It makes you seem more you. Anyhow, with your permission, I’ll spread around that a certain stallion is otherwise occupied as soon as you let me know to do so.”

Luna nodded, promptly sitting on the ground with a sigh. “Are we that easy to read? I was not expecting such a conversation,” the alicorn mumbled.

“Not usually, but when the Sergeant enters the conversation? Toooootally,” the mare remarked casually. “Nopony else has noticed though, not yet. My lips are sealed of course.”

Luna sighed, not able to keep a smile off her face. “Where is Shifting now?”

“Training, as usual. That guy is a machine.”

Luna nodded, waving a wing to her personal guard. “Then perhaps it is time we get out our old sparing equipment. I’ll answer Shifting’s question myself, and be back in time for a few sessions of Night Court.”

As the Princess left towards the training arena, Spear note returned with a curious tilt to his head. “Was that Princess Luna? What’d I miss?” he asked his companion.

“Yeah, but nothing important. Just mare stuff,” Dancing replied cheerily, prompting Spear to sigh.

“Alright then…”

The wooden dummy shattered under Shifting’s hoof, the stallion ducking a swing from one of the other training mannequins. Twirling on his hind legs he lashed out with his closest hoof, sending the other offender plowing into the stone wall across the room.

With a simple spell, the Sergeant paused the mannequins, trotting over to get some water. He still had a few hours before his training session; and this was always a good bit of practice.

I wonder if Luna will accept? I certainly think it’d be fun…

As was more frequently occurring the stallion found a smile on his face at the thought of the Night Princess. But how to address the other issue? Perhaps I’ll simply ask, make sure this isn’t a total misunderstanding.

His smile fell slightly, Shifting rubbing a slightly sore muscle in his forelimb.

Perhaps it’s all in my head? I’ve never really been the best at discerning between close friendliness and flirting. For a thousand years of living, I have little to no experience to draw upon. Aye, best ask to make sure there even IS something. Then I can-

“Shifting?”

The Sergeant’s ears immediately perked up; saddening thoughts whisked away on the soft voice that reached his ears.

“Luna? I-” Shifting turned around and promptly stared. The Alicorn’s body shimmered with a thick layer of magic, a few simple metal plates adorning her frame.

“We wanted to take up your offer on sparring, if it is still applicable and a good time,” Luna remarked, definitely trying to hide a smile at seeing Shifting’s gaze.

She’s always looked gorgeous in armor…

“I-yes! Sure! I assume that’s training armor?” Shifting asked, prompting a nod.

“Indeed. Normal material is insufficient; this metal is enchanted with a powerful dampening spell. A hit from you, or my sister, is softened ever so slightly. It allows us to not hold back physically at least,” Luna explained, Shifting becoming a bit pensive.

“Is there a chance I could find a smaller set?”

Luna couldn’t help but giggle as Shifting’s eyes lit up when she summoned said item into existence, pulled from one of her many storage portals.

“So…we can hit each other full force?” Shifting asked as he put the equipment on, another laugh reaching his ears as the Alicorn nodded, not able to resist a smile as well.

“Indeed. These walls have seen much worse besides.”

Feeling the spells activate, the stallion was all smiles as he took his place in the arena, Luna doing the same.

“So, how do you want to go about this? Just physical blows I assume, since with your magical power you could quite literally flatten me,” Shifting remarked, prompting yet another giggle.

“Yes. I will refrain from magic as much as we can; but be warned, I may…react instinctually at times if you hit me,” Luna said, prompting a shrug.

“Understandable; I may do the same, honestly, as fair warning. I can deflect spells well enough; a full magical attack from you though would turn me into paste. So….”

Luna lowered herself into a guarded stance, wings slightly spread with a smile. “Hit us, if you can.”

Shifting grinned, the pair dancing around as the distance slowly closed. His first strike was blocked; but Luna left an opening.

She’s rusty; I’ve been practicing for a thousand years…Luna, not so much.

A strike from Luna pushed Shifting back slightly as he took the blow to a forelimb, but the stallion quickly ducked another strike, spinning on his hindquarters to land a buck straight to Luna’s chest.

The alicorn flew backwards; slamming into the wall with enough force to crack the solid stone.

“Luna! Are you-”

Shifting’s words slid away like a morning mist; his eyes wide in surprise. An excited, almost feral grin was now plastered on Luna’s features, the Alicorn cracking her neck as she lowered herself into a battle stance.

…Uh oh.

Silty Stone trotted along the path, making her way to the Guard training grounds for a bit of early practice before the official lesson. The others were already there and eating a fresh meal, having slept in the barracks while she had dashed home to visit her family briefly.

Always nice to see them, but a bit of a journey…wait…

The hiss of magical spells and cracking of stone caught the Thestral’s attention, prompting the bat-pony to poke her head into the Princess’s training area. Her eyes widened in surprise- and Silty promptly ran the entire way to the mess hall a few minutes away, galloping down the sloped stone entrance to the guard Training Center.

Skidding to a stop on the wooden floors, the mare panted as she gestured outside the doors, over thirty pairs of curious eyes turning her way as the Thestrals paused during their meal.

“Drill Sergeant is sparring Luna!”

The entire mess hall promptly emptied in a mad dash, the recruits running pell-mell to the stone tunnel, crowding together to watch.

Silty’s eyes widened as the pair clashed again, Luna apparently sending a beam of raw energy towards the stallion. A tan shield snapped into focus; deflecting the magical strike into a dozen different harmless rays. Luna’s follow-up strike slammed against the shield, her blow causing the artifact to crack as the Sergeant skidded backwards.

Shifting ducked another swipe, delivering a one-two punch to Luna’s chest and head before ducking a swipe of the Alicorn’s wings. His eyes were narrowed, the pony growling briefly as a familiar maroon glow surrounded them. For a moment, the Drill Sergeant seemed to have an almost malevolent aura…

It was then gone, lost in the blur of motion as the two clashed again, the blows sending the other skidding across the solid rock.

They’re so fast!

Sweat dripped off Shifting’s frame as he ducked a punch from Luna, the alicorn then taking a step back to slowly circle around. The pair had been sparring for what must have been an hour straight; and both of their sides were heaving with exertion.

I haven’t had a workout like this in ages...full contact sparring? And Luna is incredible.

What the Alicorn lacked in practice she made up with in terms of speed and raw power, using magic to boost her speed and reflexes. A few times the Princess had reflectively blasted a beam of raw energy at Shifting’s face; but his shields had deflected most of it.

Lunging forwards, Shifting’s blow sent Luna skidding back, the Alicorn locking a forelimb around the stallion’s as she panted.

“Art…thou ready to yield?” she asked, Shifting chuckling as he sucked in air desperately.

“I…was about…to ask you…the same….thing.”

A soft laugh left Luna’s muzzle, the pair finding that not moving was increasingly attractive, as their limbs were starting to quiver from the strain of simply standing.

Luna’s hindquarters gave out first, followed by Shifting’s, the pair plopping to the ground with a soft *thud*, still having a forelimb interlocked.

“Hah. I have you right where I want you,” Shifting grinned, prompting another laugh.

“Ah, but this is part of my plan,” the Princess countered.

“….really?”

“No. Not at all. We cannot move. You?” Luna admitted with a smile.

“I can’t feel my legs. I think we’re done?”

Shifting’s eyes widened as Luna reached down, resting her forehead against his own briefly. “Aye. I believe so. Thou art a formidable opponent, Shifting Sands. We look forward to further matches.”

“…After we can move?” he ventured.

“Yes. After that.”

The stallion couldn’t help but notice that Luna seemed to ever so slightly press against his forehead a bit more, then reluctantly pulling away.

Hmm, a pity. That was rather nice.

A series of whoops and hollers reached the pair’s ears, Shifting then slowly standing on shaking legs.

“Glad you all enjoyed the show, but be ready to move out on schedule,” he barked towards the crowd. “All of you. We’re going to patrol Canterlot today and I’ll be quizzing each group on scenarios as we go! That’s in full armor, and it’d better be immaculate!”

The trainees quickly vanished; many sporting wide grins as they waved, trotting back to the barracks and small armory underground.

Luna trotted up to then sit beside the Drill Sergeant, nodding approvingly. “You are making excellent progress with them; I continued to be impressed, Shifting,” she mused, the stallion grinning as he glanced over to the Alicorn.

“I’m glad, Princess. They are certainly on their way. I’d say they’re where they should be. We’ll start on combat training this next week and go from there. The new equipment arrived, after all.”

Shifting couldn’t help but notice how Luna’s gaze drifted over to him, the slightest blush dawning on her cheeks as he spoke.

Well, no time like the present.

“Luna? May I ask you something rather personal?” Shifting said, brow furrowing in thought. How do I phrase this? Bluntly, but not insensitive.

“Well, it depends what that may be, but yes, of course.”

“What are your feelings towards me?”

The Alicorn drew a slight breath, Shifting looking over to watch her reaction. The slight blush had intensified, making her cheeks radiate against the natural colorations.

“W-we…I…” her shoulders slumped, Luna’s eyes darting across the ground. “I am trying to figure that out.”

“Luna, the stereotype of being an oblivious stallion may be partially true for me, but I’m not a fool,” Shifting mused, a tender smile on his features. “Perhaps I’m overthinking it all though….”

“Thou aren’t.”

The soft whisper that left Luna’s mouth had Shifting’s ears perk up immediately. The two words were laden with emotion; notably…

Fear?

“Then if I’m not, perhaps it is appropriate to say I’m quite happy to have you as a friend,” Shifting began, not wanting to leave any doubt as to what his intentions were. “That said, as a friend, I thoroughly enjoy your company, and-”

“Just friend, however,” Luna stated, a soft chuckle leaving Shifting.

“You didn’t let me finish. I’d be lying to you if I didn’t have the beginnings of something more creeping into my heart. I can’t say for certain, but it is not an alien thing, nor an unwanted development,” the stallion continued.

Luna now looked over to him, her eyes wide slightly in surprise. For a moment, the Princess looked genuinely vulnerable, the alicorn seeming to soak up every word that Shifting said. “T-truly?”

Shifting nodded, still smiling gently. While somewhat new territory for him, it was, at the same time, very familiar. “Luna, for a thousand years, I’ve still remembered you from when I first enlisted, and I’ve seen that you are still that same pony. I’ve always seen you as a Princess; regal, noble, powerful, enchanting, but not as an unapproachable individual,” Shifting let out a slight huff, shrugging his shoulders. “I guess what I’m trying to say is, I’ve always treated and held you in high regard. It doesn’t take much effort to simply treat you as a Princess in a different, more personal way. I just couldn’t think about you like that. Not until…well…yeah. The recent things I’ve noticed.”

A slight sniffle caught his attention, as did seeing Luna swiping a forehoof across her eyes. “That was very sweet, Shifting. Even if thou didn’t intend it to be so,” she whispered, then looking over to him.

“Where do we go from here?”

Shifting blew out a breath slowly, losing himself slightly in thought. “We take things slow, however that may be. Luna, I’m still adjusting, and do not want any relationships, as friends or otherwise, to be the result of that adjustment rather than genuine feelings. I would feel horrible if feelings I thought to be genuine turned out to be nothing but a mood swing. Of course, that hasn’t happened concerning you, which is why I’m telling you this. I just don’t want to hurt anypony, least of all you.”

A tender smile meandered onto Luna’s face, the alicorn nodding in agreement. “I think that is a wise and sincere plan, Shifting.”

The Sergeant nodded, then glanced over to the Alicorn with a raised eyebrow. “Well, thank you. But you still never answered my question, not directly.”

His words caused a brief silence, and then a very soft chuckle.

“No, we did not. But now we have the words, I think.” Luna was quiet again for a time, collecting her thoughts. “Thou were relatable at first impression, as we underwent a similar adjustment. But now? Now we enjoy being around thee. Thou art…calming, fun and put me at ease. You have treated us like a pony, rather than a goddess, but still with respect. I cannot help but enjoy that. You are a fascinating individual I would like to get to know further, however far that may go.” Her cheeks then lit up, a soft mumble leaving her muzzle. “And the hug thou gave us was oddly nice.”

“Well, would you like another?” was Shifting’s immediate reply, a wide grin on his face which prompting an almost reluctant nod as the Alicorn grumbled.

Standing up, Shifting walked over and promptly wrapped his arms around Luna’s neck- the lack of hesitation clearly surprising the Princess.

“…why do I feel as though this was planned?” Luna asked, returning the gesture with a happy sigh.

“Oh, it totally was. Part of my master strategy of course,” Shifting replied good-naturedly, his already sore muscles aching as Luna leaned into his embrace slightly.

“Honestly though, I figured my question would go one of two ways. I was either wrong, or I wasn’t. I’m rather happy I get to explore this new path with you though.”

A familiar silence flowed in, Luna finally nodding. “We are too. I have been conflicted as to what to do. We are rather new to this…”

Pulling back slightly, Shifting reached forwards to tap Luna’s nose with a hoof lightly. “I think we have a lot more talking to do, yes?”

Luna nodded, a genuine smile on her face as the pair stood, both needing to addend to their various duties. “I agree. Thank you, Shifting.”

“I’m not sure what for, but you are most welcome, Luna.”

“For being you.”

Shifting paused, brow furrowing slightly. A wave of emotions surprised the stallion, making his throat tense as he struggled to form the words that came almost as second nature. “Thank you, I…” he began, gritting his teeth as countless nights of speaking to the moon came flooding back. “I feel the same towards you. The mare I respected and revered a thousand years ago is still here, and now sees me as a friend. For that, I cannot thank you enough. And now another path is opened. It’s…” he shook his head, frustrated as a few tears came and went. “Emotional wave, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I’m…it is not often I hear such words,” Luna admitted, not seeming entirely sure of whether he wanted comfort or not.

“Well, expect to hear such things more often; that won’t fade as I adjust that’s for sure.”

“You are not making it easy to not hug you again.”

Shifting waved a hoof with a grin, gesturing towards the side tunnels of the room. “Well, I certainly won’t object to such in the future, but I think we both have duties to attend to. Perhaps we can talk before the night is over? Or, failing that, early tomorrow?”

Luna nodded, horn starting to ignite with magic. “We look forward to it, Shifting. Take care.”

“You too Luna.”

As the alicorn vanished with a teleportation spell, Shifting then trotted off to the showers with a whistle. It was only when he was almost clean that the unicorn promptly rested his head against the rock wall.

I have a date.

Sort of.

With the Princess.

…I really should be more shaken than I am.

His own words flooded back, prompting Shifting to smile.

I’ve always cared about her in some way. It’s not too much of a shift then; the thought had crossed my mind before, however fleeting. And now? Now I can actually get to know her.

Luna was all smiles as she trotted back to the throne room, coat still glistening from a shower.

He asked! Oh, I was stewing on how to bring that up! And….

The soft glow in her cheeks refused to leave, even as the Night Princess sat on the throne, Night Court beginning shortly. His words; I never expected something so sweet. And yet there is that darkness, the inklings of something when we sparred…

While the thought should have unnerved the princess, it only made Luna’s heart beat all the faster at the thought of the stallion.

We’ve both been through the fire and flames, haven’t we? We’ve just dealt with it in different ways.

“Wild guess? Good news?” Dancing whispered as the doors began to open, the Thestral grinning widely.

“We…erm, might have a date? Sort of? Good news?” Luna stammered, a high-pitched squealing reaching her ears as the Thestral hopped up and down briefly, then settling back into her professional stance.

“Really? Oh, we’re totally talking later. I’ll bring the blueberry pastries,” Dancing whispered.

“Thou art bribing us with baked goods?”

“Totally.”

“…They had better be fresh.”

The smile on Luna’s features refused to leave, even through the hours of the Night Court.

Author's Note

"MORPHEUS IS FIGHTING NEO!" :rainbowlaugh: That's all I could think of when that scene came up. Oh if I could draw a comic of that, I totally would.

This was an interesting scene, because gone is the teenage drama/awkwardness, and instead, simply two individuals trying to confront an issue....With no less adorableness of course! Both are battle-scarred and respectful of the other, with a LOT hidden beneath the surface....

And hope everyone enjoyed the FLORF. Adorable and slightly awkward adult ponies!
...for the un-intiated, Florf = Lore + Fluff. (term born of comments in my Gallus/Silverstream fics.)

Thank you all again on the survey feedback! IT HATH BEEN DECIDED!

Chapter Eight: Flames

“Trainee Stone! You are on patrol with your squad and encounter two immediate problems,” Sergeant Shifting Sands barked, pausing as he and the other thirty thestrals stood at attention.

They had been traversing Canterlot for a good hour or two, the unicorn grilling each and every trainee present on potential scenarios. Clad in full armor with spell-shield gauntlets, they looked the part save for the large (T) inscribed across the sides of the metal to signify their rank of Trainees.

“There is a bakery on fire with occupants waving from a window, flames behind them. There are three ponies out front attempting to make off with the business’s safe. One of the owners is struggling with them. It is only you present. How do you react after calling for backup?”

The thestral in question furrowed her brow, only taking a moment to respond. “Lives are always worth more than possessions, so I yell to the owner in front of the store to let the thieves go. I focus my efforts on saving the occupants,” she stated, prompting an approving nod from the Drill Sergeant.

“Good. Now this may seem like an obvious exercise, but it is crucial to imagine these scenarios beforehoof,” Shifting replied, the group starting to move down the street again, pausing ever so often as their leader spoke.

“What may be an obvious choice now may become muddled in the moment. To hesitate in a crisis is to allow danger the upper hoof. Possessions are never worth more than a life, no matter how dear they may be to the pony. Any questions?”

A hoof popped up in the back, Shifting nodding to the thestral that trotted along at the edge of the group.

“Trainee Fern, yes?”

“Sir, what if the muggers are trying to harm the owners? Then it’s two cases of lives being saved.”

Shifting signaled a halt, sitting down and addressing the group. His shoulders sagged slightly, an invisible weight pressing down upon them.

“Then, Trainee Fern, you have to make the most difficult decision of all,” the Sergeant replied, eyes locked onto the thestral in question. “In a scenario such as that, and we haven’t covered situational triage yet, there may be no clear answer. You may try to save both parties and both may die. Or perhaps you save one at the cost of the other. I hope none of you ever have to make that choice, but there are indeed situations in which there is no correct choice, only choices that you must live with.”

Shifting noticed how the entire group was dead silent but a notable few were nodding their heads in agreement, Silty Stone included. There’s a few hardened ponies here, interesting.

“We will cover that in the coming week or two. For now, let us continue with a few more basic exercises. Now then, who can tell…me…” his voice drifted off, a familiar itch spreading along the pony’s spine.

“Sir?” Silty asked, seeing the unicorn’s eyes narrow.

“Something is wrong,” The Drill Sergeant stated flatly, his armor glowing as magic swirled protectively around his frame.

“Trainees, I want you to-”

*THUD*

The ground shook, sending each pony tottering on their own hooves as something detonated, sending shockwaves throughout the city. A glow now lit up the night sky to their right, followed by another, smaller explosion that was but a few streets over. Embers rose and quickly began to fall on the group, carried by a slight wind.

“Drill Sergeant Sands here. Explosions near the prison complex of the castle. Secondary explosion on Forth Horseshoe street, two blocks east of main,” the veteran unicorn barked, horn aglow with a communication spell as a crystal levitated out of his saddlebags, linking him to the Royal Guard dispatch center.

“I have thirty trainees with me; I’m too far from the prison complex, but I’ll have them observe and report. I’ll respond to the closest explosion.”

A simple chime was his answer, the emergency tone indicating that the message was received but no time could be spared for even a simple voice reply.

“Trainees!” Shifting ordered, everpony standing at attention.

“The back half of this group, go towards the prison. Do not engage unless attacked. I want you to observe and record what happens. We don’t know who or what caused that explosion. Aid the Royal Guards first and foremost however! The rest of you with me, now MOVE OUT!” Shifting bellowed, the group smoothly splitting in half, thestrals flying quickly towards the distant fiery glow.

The other fifteen thestrals quickly galloped after their Sergeant, the unicorn’s hooves sparking with magic as various spells weaved themselves into his armor.

Two explosions, one near the prison? A diversion for sure.

Skidding around the final corner, Shifting’s eyes widened as he took in the scene in an instant. A large, multi-story wooden building was aflame, nestled between other structures that were beginning to burn. A dozen royal guards were already there, treating ponies with various stages of burns. Four Pegasi were moving clouds into position trying to dump as much water onto the fire as possible.

What then made Shifting’s heart turn to ice, was noticing many of the victims were very small in size.

“Corporal!” Shifting called, seeing a royal guard directing a few other ponies this way and that. “What can we do?”

The earth pony’s eyes widened, and Shifting saw that this individual was barely past his mid-twenties; likely fresh out of officer’s training.

“I-we need to move the victims, and get the fire out,” the Corporal stammered, then gestured to the building. “You’re higher ranking than me, Sir. I’ll follow your lead, if that’s appropriate. I only got here a few moments ago. There may be a few more ponies inside…”

Shifting gestured to the victims, nodding to his trainees. “Recruits! Follow the corporal’s lead on evacuating these patients; that building could come down soon. I’ll check to see if there’s anyone left inside!”

The thestrals nodded; leaving the Sergeant to gallop towards the inferno. The other unicorns present were casting healing spells, and they likely didn’t have his expertise in such matters.

Cold spell, shielding spell, backup shields, instant levitation in case of floor collapse…alright.

Shifting trotted through the flames, magic sparking as his shields held firm. “Hello? Is there anypony left inside?” he called, horror creeping into his frame as a single large sign sagged next to a receptionist desk.

‘Canterlot Orphanage- Overflow facility.’

“ANYPONY?” Shifting bellowed, casting a seeker spell throughout the building. To his relief, it came up empty.

That means there’s no living ponies left.

Still inspecting a few flaming rooms, Shifting was relieved to see no bodies- but a bit of movement caught his eye, bolting towards an emergency exit.

The Sergeant only caught a glimpse of the pony as it dashed out of the flaming door- a unicorn clad in flame retardant clothing that glowed with concealment spells and carrying an empty gas can in its magical grip.

Oh no you don’t!

Shifting’s horn glowed- and the wall in front of him shimmered to become slightly transparent, letting him see the assailant on the other side. That’s right…a few more steps….

Silty Stone carefully pulled the last of the fillies over, making sure the frightened child was comfortable on the other side of the street. If the building collapsed, they’d be at least somewhat removed; but they were hardly safe.

“That’s the last of them moved!” she called to the corporal, then noticing a dark shape in the small alleyway next to the flaming building.

The mysterious pony only took another step or two before the wall beside it exploded.

Wreathed in flames that licked around his personal shielding and eyes aglow with a red tint, Sergeant Sands hit the pony with his shoulder, sending it thudding into the opposing wall. Silty’s eyes widened in surprise as the Sergeant pounced, throttling the pony against the stone with a single hoof- a familiar saber held but an inch away from the pony’s nose in a magical grip.

“Give me a reason!” Shifting hissed, the pony now reduced to a quivering mess as its face mask was pulled away. A stallion stared back at him with cloudy eyes, the fearful facade then dropping as he grinned.

“Go ahead! That would be even better!” the firebug giggled, then starting to cackle before Shifting smacked the hilt of his saber against the assailant’s skull.

“No. No more death tonight,” Shifting muttered, a bit of movement then drawing his gaze. At the end of an alleyway, a pony caught his gaze, simply standing there. The mare’s mane and tail were fading at the ends, as though steaming off into the ether. Her entire body was a light blue, carrying with it the strange misting effect, as though made of ice left out in a hot summer day. Her eyes, however, were unforgiving and hateful, their dark blue orbs locking onto Shifting’s. The air seemed to freeze around the Sergeant, his breath misting in front of his muzzle despite the inferno. Her mouth opened to reveal fangs, then twisting into a cruel smile for a moment.

And then she was gone, blown away on the wind.

What was that?!

Cries for help drew Shifting’s attention, the Sergeant now trotting out to assist the other victims with the unconscious assailant levitated in his grasp.

“Who was that, Sir?” Silty asked, prompting her mentor’s ears to perk up as he tied up the other pony.

“You saw her too?”

“Only a glimpse. It was like a ghost, and then it got rather cold.”

Her comments elicited a frown from the Sergeant; and he simply shook his head. “She’s gone now, perhaps an illusion. Now then, let’s get this one secured and-”

“SIR!”

The voice of the Corporal made Shifting’s head whip around just in time to see another masked pony emerge from an alleyway across the street. With a powerful toss, the earth pony sent a backpack flying into the burning building, the assailant then vanishing as two royal guards dashed after him. As the pack flew into the window, Shifting caught a glimpse of a few red cylinders spilling from the bag…

NO!

The Sergeant turned his head- only able to look on in horror as the dozens of ponies behind him stared in shock. The royal guards, trainees and injured; they were all within the blast zone.

“EVERYPONY DOWN!” Shifting bellowed, galloping to stand in front of the ponies before slamming his hooves into the cobblestones, runes igniting along the ground.

Tan shields shimmered into existence, stacking on top of one another as the magic spread, Shifting’s body swirling with leyline power. Waves of the raw arcane energy were sucked into his frame as though drawn through a vacuum, the unicorn’s shield spell desperately weaving a wall of shields in front of the guards and casualties.

The sudden series of detonations made Shifting’s hooves crack into the cobblestones; the force of the explosion making his spells and body shudder with the strain. A wall of fire surged out against his shields; tendrils forcing their way between the protective layers.

This isn’t just dynamite! What else did they mix into it?!

The flames continued to intensify, spreading around the edges of Shifting’s shields as he struggled to maintain the spells. The Pegasi above the building flew away; the flames taking the path of least resistance and surging upwards in a pillar of fire.

Shifting felt his personal shield begin to crack; the primary spells holding the flames at bay still in place. So be it! I can take a bit of heat!

Flames licked across his frame, the leather wrappings burning away as a final line of spells protected Shifting’s skin between his Lunar Knight armor. Even as fire wrapped around the unicorn, his horn continued to shine, channeling every scrap of magic into the wall of shields that angled the blaze upwards and away from the ponies behind him.

I can’t contain this alone…I hope everypony is moving out of the way! I can’t-

His shields suddenly stopped shimmering; a different type of magic strengthening the spells. Silty Stone pushed through the blaze- a forelimb held out in front of her as the personal shielding spell emanating from her gauntlet meshed with Shifting’s. Another trainee joined the line, and then another- and within moments, eleven Thestrals stood shoulder to shoulder with Shifting; their shields pushing the blaze back. Shifting couldn’t help but laugh, pressing his own shields forwards.

I forgot. After thousand years of fighting on my own; I’m not alone!

“FORWARD, TRAINEES!” Shifting called, the Thestrals marching forwards with him without hesitation. More Pegesi had now finally gathered, sending a mountain of clouds brimming with moisture to settle on top of the raging inferno. As the rain dumped onto the building, Shifting let his shields slowly relax, the fire quickly sputtering out under the torrent of water that now rushed into the streets.

Canceling his spells, the Sergeant stood tall and looked at the eleven Thestrals proudly, each panting at the strain of both the heat and utilizing their shields.

“Thank you, and well done.” Shifting whispered, prompting a snort from Silty.

“Welcome, as if we’d let you stand there alone anyhow.”

A grin spread across Shifting’s face, but that quickly faded as he noticed how the Thestral’s were staring at him.

“Uh, Sir? Your fur….” Silty murmured, prompting Shifting to cast a mirroring spell.

On seeing his bare and blistered skin, Shifting became aware of the all-encompassing stinging sensation that covered half his face, shoulder, and torso. The Sergeant promptly frowned and uttered a single word.

“Oh.”

“This really wasn’t what I thought you meant about talking later, you know.”

“W-well me neither! This blasted spell itches!”

“Well you should have thought about that before getting it burned off!” Luna chastised the stallion, who was currently fighting every impulse to scratch his body as his fur grew back within a few minutes. The trainees had been sent to debrief with the Royal Guard, and Shifting was left with Luna in the throne room as he relayed the events that had occurred, the Alicorn having been patrolling the dream realm when the attacks occurred.

“That’s a horrible argument!” Shifting grumbled, Luna letting out a soft giggle. She had insisted on handling the fur regrowth spell herself but a few moments ago.

Well, after getting a good laugh at the half-naked stallion first.

“Hmm. True. It was quite a sight however,” Luna then paused, a tender smile on her features.

“I’m glad you’re alright, Shifting. You had me worried, walking in here with your fur burned off.”

“Pfft. As if a bit of fire can dissuade me! I have to still speak with your sister, remember? I need to be able to take a bit of heat!” he promptly replied, eliciting a genuine laugh from the Princess.

“H-how long have you been planning to say that?” Luna gasped between chuckles, grinning as Shifting appeared to think.

“Ever since I got burned and knew I’d see you before my fur grew back, honestly. How many chances would I get for that sort of joke?” he replied, mirth fading as Luna’s expression turned more serious, the Alicorn frowning slightly.

“I still can’t believe all of this though. What type of organization would firebomb an orphanage to free prisoners?”

“The desperate kind,” Shifting growled, shaking his head slowly.

“Highness!” A royal guard called out, a slight commotion sounding outside the doors.

Itchiness forgotten, Shifting turned to look at what the cause of the hubbub was, and promptly stared as a shivering thestral was tossed onto the floor thoroughly tied up. Staring up at the two ponies, Knife Twist’s eyes widened in horror, a terrified squeak leaving her muzzle.

“She was found outside the prison walls near the breach. It’s quite odd though, it looks like they left her behind. She was just shivering there encased in a block of ice. Even after we freed her she didn’t resist at all,” the guard reported, Shifting trotting forwards to look at the terrified pony.

“Something is off about all of this,” he stated flatly, looking over to Luna briefly. “May I?”

Seeing her nod, Shifting drew his saber and cut Knife’s bonds, yet the mare refused to do anything other than curl into a ball and shiver. A magical scan of her revealed a strange sort of energy around her; fading, but still very present.

What is going on here?

“Her eyes, Princess. They’re slightly clouded like that pony I found outside the building,” Shifting reported, catching Knife’s gaze for an instant. She’s terrified. Something is wrong about this entire situation…

“Leave us,” Luna ordered the other royal guards, and they promptly shut the throne room doors, leaving just Luna and Shifting to look at the prone ex-captain. Knife only looked at the pair briefly, otherwise simply shaking her head while the rest of the Thestral’s body shivered. “My sister is being roused, but I think we should find out what exactly is going on. If you wish to take the lead, Shifting, by all means do. You’ve had more contact with this group than me.”

The Sergeant nodded, standing in front of Knife and looked down at her. Gone was the cocky and sure attitude from when they had first me. Instead, a broken mare now stared back at him, lips quivering and barely able to meet the stallion’s gaze.

“I d-didn’t…I didn’t know,” she whispered, prompting Shifting to tilt his head.

“Know what?”

“The o-orphanage. I didn’t t-think they’d t-target it! I refused t-to help after that! I didn’t know t-they’d go that far. I d-don’t kill f-foals!”

The Unicorn let out a huff, gesturing to the stained-glass windows and the city beyond.

“What did you expect? Your organization is based on causing chaos, freeing the pony populous from the tyranny of the Princess’s. How did you expect-”

“N-no.”

Shifting’s eyebrow raised as the mare objected, head shaking vigorously.

“Not my group. Not anymore. T-then again, it n-never was. To think, I w-was a freedom fighter! No, I w-was a fool,” Knife whispered, then managed a shaky laugh. “I-it made sense, everything they told m-me at first. The need to get rid of a Princess, t-to cause chaos. It seemed to make perfect, l-logical sense. Why d-doesn’t it anymore? W-why does it s-sound so wrong now?” Knife continued, then began to shiver violently.

“I n-never wanted to h-hurt foals! T-they left me when I objected! And then s-she froze me solid. T-those eyes. I can s-still see them! That a-accursed ghost mare!”

Shifting drew a surprised breath, prompting Knife to laugh sadly.

“Y-you saw her. Their Emissary, their c-chosen mouthpiece! The speaker for t-the Eyes of Ice. T-they’ll try again, and again, and again, until everywhere is in flames!” Knife murmured, starting to rock back and forth.

“The Eyes of Ice? That’s what they’re called? This organization you thought you served?” Shifting asked, and saw Knife nod. “Why an orphanage though? Surely other targets would have served a better purpose?” he continued. “It’s guaranteed to divert forces, but so would a military target or dangerous supply depot! Why innocent foals? That won’t bring ponies rallying to your master’s cause, only make the majority hate them! It will make the organization crumble from the inside out!”

Knife let out another choked laugh, her slowly-clearing eyes meeting Shifting’s as she nodded. “E-exactly. T-that’s what they want, w-what that thing told me in the p-prison as they freed us. Promised power, t-treasure, a-anything. All f-for that goal. Hate.”

Shifting shook his head, despite having a disturbing cold shiver start to run down his spine.

“No, that makes no sense. Your masters want Equestria to hate them? To despite what they are doing? To rally together in anger? Why? Who are they?!”

Knife opened her mouth to speak, but shivering made her teeth clash together. Each time she tried to speak, a strange spell prevented her from uttering anything but a single syllable. “W-w…W….”

Shifting’s blood ran cold, the pieces now falling into place as he summoned the guards again.

“Place her in a cell, and keep her warm. The spell should wear off within a few days at its current rate of decay,” he ordered, then turning to look at Luna. The Alicorn’s brow was furrowed, head shaking slowly.

“You seem to know what she’s talking about, Shifting, yet I cannot make sense of it because it goes against every rule of warfare that could apply to this scenario,” the Alicorn murmured, then pausing as the stallion met her gaze.

“Luna, your and my mistake was thinking about this like a conventional terrorist group,” Shifting admitted, taking a few deep breaths.

“Why did the air grow cold when I saw that ghostly mare? Why was Knife left in a block of ice?” he asked, then gritting his teeth. “What sort of individual, or individuals are powerful enough to use this sort of magic? What creature cares not for the wellbeing of any pony, and strives to create hate and strife? What sort of monster is empowered by such things?”

Luna’s eyes now widened as the pieces clicked into place, the utter horror of the situation finally setting in. A threat so far removed from her mind now surged to the fore…

“Windigos.”

Author's Note

What could have scared a captain of the guard? Let alone one who stood up to the Night Princess?
.....oh.

Sorry for the later chapter! End of semester master's courses, and the newest episode that threw me for a strangely disheartening loop! (Not the events- C/L were adorable.)
BUT NOW WE'RE BACK! HUZZAH! :yay: Updates should continue about once a week! :pinkiehappy:

Chapter Nine: Forward, March!

“Windigos? Are you certain?” Celestia asked, sipping a steaming cup of herbal tea as the two ponies in front of her nodded.

“Positive. There are no other creatures or organizations that fit the description. They have the motive, and certainly the means. I imagine they have plenty of treasure to utilize from unfortunate settlements that froze over ages ago,” Shifting remarked, Luna looking to her sister in worry.

“I agree with Shifting. It is fascinating, however, that such evil spirits are having others do their bidding for them now. We haven’t had a major incident with them in ages. They should still be confined to the northern areas; why they are branching out is a mystery.”

As Celestia nodded, Luna’s own eyes narrowed briefly. While her sister appeared the perfect calm ruler as she mused over the facts, the Lunar Princess could see past the mask- at least one of the ones her Sister wore on a daily basis. A slight crease at the edge of Celestia’s cheeks indicated genuine worry, and Luna felt her heart ache as the hints of tired wrinkles edged out from under her sister’s eyes. The usual mirth and sharpness behind the Solar Princess’s eyes seemed to be muted, if not absent, the lack of such causing even more worry to edge into Luna’s mind.

Dear Sister, this news is not the primary cause of your distress, that much I can tell. Are you not sleeping well? Something is bothering you; will you not let me help?

“I will contact Thorax, and see if he can subtly calm the populous with his subject’s abilities; perhaps blunt the impact this news will hold. The last thing we need is an outburst of hate and distrust right now. The Crown’s reassurances will only go so far however, as will the changeling’s ability to foster good will. Bombing an orphanage, even without any deaths, is beyond what kind words and a hug can remedy however. We’ll keep the full news from the public, at least until we have a proper response; that should buy us a few days of breathing room,” Celestia mused, frowning as she stared at the steam in her cup.

“Windigos, of all the enemies, why them, and why now? They cannot be bought, bargained, negotiated with, or otherwise destroyed, only defeated for a time,” she murmured, then seeming to snap out of her thoughts. “You have my full support to deal with them as you see fit, Drill Sergeant Sands. I’ll pass along your recommendations to my Royal Guard as well. I suspect most enemy operations will take place at night, as to maximize the fear and dread felt.”

Luna nodded, then reached over to give her sister’s shoulder a pat. “Thank you, Celly. Now back to bed with you. I think we’ll have enough busy days ahead of us.

Celestia’s ears perked up, the barest hint of a smile twitching at her features. “Is my younger sister ordering me to bed?”

“Yes, and if you don’t go, I’ll order Shifting to read you bedtime stories until you pass out.”

“Hey, don’t drag me into this!” Shifting piped up with a grin, watching as Celestia waved a hoof.

“Fine, fine. I’ll see you all later then,” Celestia grumbled, taking her leave out of the throne room. Luna then let out a tired breath, head shaking slowly.

“She is troubled, and I know not why,” she sighed, Shifting not able to do much other than shrug.

“I wish I could assist, but I don’t think it’s my business.”

A smile was the Stallion’s reward, Luna waving a hoof at him. “You’ve done enough, Shifting. We have a few hours of the night left, so let us try to get the facts into a cohesive form.”

“You’re talking about paperwork, right?”

“Oh yes. So much paperwork.”

Shifting followed Luna as she led him towards the war room, but he then paused.

“Hey, Luna?” the stallion asked.

“Hmm?”

“Considering this might be the last moment of peace we get for a good day or two, perhaps I’d best ask this now,” Shifting began. “Perhaps not tomorrow, or the day after that- but as soon as we both have a portion of the night free, would you like to have a formal date? Definitely within a week though, assuming we aren’t swamped with work.”

The request clearly stunned the Princess, her jaw moving briefly before she finally snapped out of her stupor with a happy nod.

“O-of course! Is-I do not wish to rush you. Did you not say but earlier this night, we were going to take things slow?”

Shifting blew out a breath, shaking his own head as a slight smile etched onto his features. “Between training and everything going on, I haven’t felt this…me in a thousand years. The emotional swings have subsided for the most part, as you know, but they are no reason to wait.” A gentle smile edged onto his features, genuine affection in his eyes as the stallion looked over to the Princess.

“I never really realized it until recently, actually. But between your support and having a duty, I can remember,” Shifting whispered, standing a bit taller. “I remember all of the good, everything I’ve done, all of my friends…The shadows in my mind are in full retreat, and I want to keep it that way. Seeing where things go between us is about as positive a thing as I can think of. Besides, a few simple outings will be nice,” he paused, noticing the tender smile on Luna’s features.

“I don’t think a simple date or two qualifies ‘rushing’ things though. If, for whatever reason, it feels like we are, then we can adjust to such. However, if you desire to make out on the second date, perhaps that might be a bit hasty….”

Shifting only manage to hold back his chuckles for a moment, watching as Luna’s face promptly brightened to a shade that would make a tomato proud. “I-I’m sorry, Luna. I couldn’t resist. But my point does stand though,” Shifting gasped, waving a hoof at the fuming yet amused Alicorn.

“I don’t know what the date will be yet, but I wanted to ask if that’s something you would like to pursue, at least once we have a break from this craziness.”

Luna took a few deep breaths, waiting until the blush had faded from her cheeks slightly. “I’d very much like to pursue such things; and if you feel it is appropriate, I will follow your lead. I look forward to our date, Shifting, whatever it may be.”

The stallion couldn’t resist, waggling his ears with a wide grin. “Whatever? Does that second date option truly hold such appeal? Such candor and boldness, Luna. I had no idea you-”

“Silence you cheeky stallion! You….” words failed the flustered Princess, yet Luna couldn’t keep a smile off her face as Shifting cackled.

“Forgive me, I’m done though. I’ll let you know when I have it all planned.”

Luna nodded, pausing as they now stood near the doors of the war room. A sly smile edged onto her features as the Alicorn looked over Shifting with a smile. “Hmm. That old armor suits you; perhaps it should be made an official matter? That would be more paperwork though…bah. Perhaps at a later date,” Luna mused as she promptly trotted away into the room, leaving Shifting gaping at her.

“You evil, evil creature.”

“Come, Shifting! There is paperwork to be vanquished!

“So, so evil.”

“Next group ready! Stand by, GO!” Shifting bellowed, watching as the trainees dashed into the obstacle course. While not outfitted with combat training tools, the animated mannequins, stairs, spinning barrels, swiping wooden arms, and other oddities still provided a challenging test of agility and stamina.

I’m certainly not surprised that Silty traversed it with ease; that mare and her group have been pushing themselves after every formal training. Come to think of it, it’s the same ones who helped me during that fire yesterday.

His gaze then drifted to a burly station, the Drill Sergeants mouth curling up into a smile. Said thestral paused, instructing a few recruits that had been struggling the lap before. He then traversed the course behind them; calling out advice before each segment.

I have to say, Bitter Blade has come rather far in a short few weeks. Not top of the class; but he seems to have taken quite well to helping those under his skill set. Silty seems to have her own set group that is going above and beyond the requirements, while Bitter has been helping the ones lagging throughout the program. Hmm. With a bit more training, I think there’s a job that would suit him quite well.

As the final group of twelve recruits ran through the course, Shifting nodded in approval as they all stood at attention, sides heaving and sweat dripping from their brows. He had pushed them the past five days; making sure they all met the physical requirements and then some. Teaching over thirty at a time had been taxing but necessary; evaluating each on their readiness and skill.

I hope Luna understands why I’ve been so busy; but at least now I have an idea for our date!

“Good. Starting tomorrow, that course is going to get a lot trickier. Everyone seems to be caught up in every aspect except for combat. So, this next week or two is going to be interesting for everypony as we review and learn new techniques. Everyone is dismissed; be back here tomorrow at the usual time.”

The trainee’s disbanded, leaving Shifting to check his pocket watch with a satisfied nod.

Alright. I’ve still got a bit of time…

It was a quick matter to shower and change out of his full armor, an action which still left the stallion feeling bare, despite still wearing a small breastplate with the Night Guard insignia. It wasn’t full formal wear, but still above simply going…naked. Having a permanent recall spell on his armor did assuage Shifting’s nerves somewhat.

Ugh. Being without armor should feel a lot more natural than it is. That’s what I get for wearing it for hundreds of years. The stallion mused. Alright. So, a short stop to see Celestia as she heads in for bed for the matter of courtesy, then meet with Luna to see what she wanted to talk to me about, and THEN leaving a note of contact for the factory CEO for the day. I should be able to tour it tomorrow beforehoof…

Trotting down the hallway, Shifting couldn’t help but grin at his perfect timing, catching Celestia just as she was trotting down the halls for breakfast.

“Ah, Shifting! I believe my sister is still wrapping things up in the dream realm,” Celestia remarked, ears flicking up as Shifting shook his head.

“Actually, your Highness, it’s you I was looking for.”

“Oh?”

Glancing around and seeing that they were alone, Shifting began to open his mouth- but abruptly shut it as Celestia gestured with a wing towards a room off to their left. Following her inside, Shifting looked around at the neatly-kept guest room, once of many within the castle.

“I assume this matter requires a bit of discretion?” Celestia asked, the stallion then shrugging his shoulders.

“More out of respect than anything. I…”

Words, don’t fail me now!

Standing a bit taller, Shifting gestured outside the halls, towards where he assumed Luna would be walking around.

“I simply wished to inform you that I’ve asked Luna on a date; and she accepted. That was a few days ago, and I finally have an idea of where to go,” he then paused, a sincere smile meandering onto his features. “It may not be law or required, but I felt it appropriate to let you know, as her older sister. We may all be adults in our own right, but you’re her family. So, I simply wish to respect that.”

Celestia blinked, the Alabaster alicorn looking over the stallion with a keen eye, expression neutral as he spoke. She then smiled fully, a soft titter leaving her muzzle.

“Thank you, Shifting Sands,” she began, impressed at the genuine demeanor of the pony in front of her. “The fact you are willing to do so speaks wonders about your character; I am slightly disappointed I won’t be able to play the part of the scary and overprotective sister, as it certainly isn’t required. You’ve shown time and time again you have Luna’s best interests in heart, and when she’s with you, even in brief moments, I haven’t seen her that happy and relaxed in ages. You don’t need my approval, Sergeant, but you certainly have it.”

Shifting let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding, the stallion all smiles as he nodded. “I-thank you, Princess-”

“Just Celestia if we’re out of the public eye, especially since you’re now dating my sister. Speaking of which, what did you have in mind, if I might ask?”

Shifting paused, fishing out a small and neatly itemized plan of the next evening; specifically, a few hours of it.

“I plan on touring the establishment first, so I can at least somewhat explain to Luna what it all does. It’s mostly automated now, but I think she’d find it interesting.”

A bit of mirth crept into Celestia’s gaze, the alicorn letting out a soft chuckle. For a fraction of a second, Shifting then saw something slide into the Alicorn’s gaze as she looked over the list, but then it was gone, the ruler all-smiles as she continued to read the parchment.

“I think this is perfect, Shifting. Am I to assume you came up with this after examining our activities on that day off we took?”

The unicorn nodded, accepting the levitated schedule back.

“That’s correct. I tried to combine one or two things the newspapers mentioned, and just hope she likes it.”

Celestia let out a hum in thought, walking with Shifting towards the door. “To be fair, I think Luna would be content doing anything with you, Shifting. That said, I think you’ve picked a fantastic activity. Now then, I think she’s in her study at about this hour. From what I understand, she wants to discuss something with you-I’m not sure if you got that message yet however.”

Shifting nodded, bowing his head respectfully as he trotted off. “Thank you, Princ-erm, Celestia,” he remarked, making his way down the halls.

Knocking on the ornate door, Shifting waited patiently until- “Come in!”

Making his way inside, Shifting glanced around the orderly room, noticing rows of bookshelves, and two large desks inside the study.

“You wanted to see me, Luna? Celestia mentioned that on my way here,” he asked, ears twitching in curiosity, especially on observing the wide grin sliding onto the Alicorn’s features.

“I did! But first, I wanted to get an update on your recruits; it has been almost a week since we have last talked. I’ve been just as busy as you have,” Luna sighed, flopping onto her desk and shoving a pile of papers out of her way.

“Well, we’re starting on the catch-up combat training tomorrow; they’re all caught up in every other aspect. I would feel comfortable assigning them low-security details, even with their current spotty combat experience. I’d say within a few weeks, they’ll be full qualified as Night Guards, and a few can start helping me train the next batch. I’ll have my hooves full training another batch regardless,” Shifting relayed, watching the Alicorn curiously as she hummed.

“That is good to hear; you’ve certainly exceeded my expectations…”

“Do I sense a ‘but’ coming?”

Luna giggled, waving a hoof at the stallion with a shake of her head, then getting up to stand in front of him. “The but, is that you’re assuming all your time in the future will be simply training.”

Shifting blinked, head tilting curiously. “Is that not my assignment? I don’t understand.”

Luna grinned gesturing to the Sergeant’s breastplate. “Hmm. I think your other armor is much more suitable…”

The stallion’s eyes widened, the realization of what exactly Luna was getting at starting to fall into place. “W-wait, are you saying…”

Standing up to her full height, Luna spread her wings slightly, looking down at her loyal Sergeant. “Sergeant Shifting Sands,” she remarked, eyes aglitter with mirth and determination, “Due to your exemplary actions, I and my sister have agreed to offer you a new position.”

A slight tremor ran up Shifting’s limbs, excitement starting to build in his frame.

Luna…are you-

“I would prefer to wait until the Night Guards are fully trained, but our enemy lacks that restraint. As you recommended, I believe an elite force of ponies are needed at this time, operating above and beyond what the Night Guard can handle.”

Luna spread her wings fully, levitating a familiar and cleaned-up amulet over to Shifting. A pearly-white moon shone back at him, expertly crafted into the dark blue, almost black amulet, the pendant having been re-strung on a sturdier cord. A new rank was now etched into the metal, and warmth blossomed in Shifting’s chest as Luna smiled down at him, returning the item that he had once surrendered.

“I admit that it is sudden, but Equestria needs your unique talents once again. This cannot wait any longer; and I think you have more than proven yourself. I have decided that it is time the Lunar Knights make their reappearance, Shifting. Will you lead them? Will you select, train, and oversee the creation of my old guard once again, Commander?”

Shifting drew in a sharp breath, emotion tightening his throat as the stallion carefully donned the pendant. With a tap of his hoof, his armor weaved itself around the Sergeant’s frame, complete with full breastplate, gauntlets, and saber. As a familiar helmet buckled around Shifting’s head, the unicorn drew his weapon and placed it point-first into the floor.

“Your highness, I am honored by this duty,” Shifting couldn’t help but grin, his eyes narrowing in excitement as he saluted his Princess sharply.

“And I accept!”

Luna bowed her head with a smile to the loyal pony, levitating a small stack of papers over to Shifting. “Then let us make it official, Commander Shifting Sands of the Lunar Knights!”

It was only as Shifting signed his name that the full weight of responsibility began to settle on his shoulders; and yet it was all bolstered by the knowledge that he could do this!

I’m not alone in this effort. I’ve trained hundreds on my own- and now I have the support of Luna and the Night Guard! The Lunar Knights will return in all of their splendor; of that I promise!

“So, to clarify, Luna,” Shifting asked, signing the last form and reading through the summaries of each briefly. “I am to oversee all the training? I assume I can appoint a committee and the like? If I am reading this correctly, the accelerated training and such is simply due to the current crisis? I can handle the training of perhaps a squad or two of each on my own, but past that is beyond my ability, especially if I am overseeing security and such.”

Luna nodded, not able to resist looking over Shifting head-to-tail briefly. Judging from the slight blush on her cheeks, he wore the armor rather well…

“Correct. We don’t have any others who can train as of yet- so you must oversee the final training of the basic Night Guard, and then the Lunar Knights once others can take over your previous Drill Sergeant position,” she explained.

“I actually have a few ideas about that; candidates to train others as well as who may be suited for the Lunar Knights,” Shifting mused prompting a raised eyebrow.

“Oh?”

“I’ll run a test tomorrow or the day after. Those demonstrating a certain tenacity will be allowed in- since this position will require lethal force. The stallion I previously had some respect issues with, Bitter Blade, has shown remarkable patience and initiative in teaching struggling students.”

Luna let out an intrigued hum at that, sitting down to listen in curiosity.

“With a bit of training, he’d make a good Drill Sergeant. All of this is going to be a tad rushed; but I agree with your assessment. I’d rather have ponies with some training that was rushed, rather than no combat experience. It goes against what I’d prefer, taking things slow, but we are out of time. The bombing demonstrated that.”

Luna nodded, blowing out a frustrated breath. “Indeed, and that is the challenge I am presenting to you. Let it be known, Shifting, your appointment to this position is rushed- but not because you aren’t ready. I’d prefer to have you finish training the recruits, and then move onto the Lunar Knights. But as you said, we are out of time,” she smiled, the gesture making Shifting’s heart glow with warmth. “Personally, I think you’ve been worthy of this position ever since you saved my life. You just needed to prove to me that you could handle the responsibly; and training thirty recruits has done just that, among a list of other things.”

Shifting was all smiles, letting his armor fade away with a quick spell, and prompting a slight pout from the Princess.

“I thought you looked fantastic in it…” she grumbled, prompting a chuckle from the Commander.

“Oh? I’ll keep that in mind for our date- of which I finally have a plan. Miss Luna, are you free tomorrow night?” Shifting asked, bowing his head and offering a hoof formally, trying his hardest to not laugh.

His gestured earned the stallion a genuine blush as Luna placed her hoof in his, nodding eagerly. “I most certainly am. What do you have in mind?”

Shifting let her hoof go- with a bit of reluctance, however. He shook his head, then waved a hoof to the city outside her window. “The main activity I would like to remain a surprise, if that is acceptable. However, I thought a simple and quiet meal overlooking the city would be nice. If you’d like, I also might have reserved the first edition of a classical art manual, discussing what each artist may have meant with their various pieces. If the historian was correct, very few have had a chance to read it.”

Waiting for a response, Shifting spent the majority of his energy trying not to fidget; he had spent hours getting everything in place, and perusing activities that seemed to fit Luna’s fancy…did he-

The smallest sniffle caught his attention, the stallion’s ears snapping upright as Luna swiped a forelimb across her eyes, a wide smile on her face despite a bit of quavering in her voice.

“Shifting, that sounds lovely,” Luna managed to say, her loyal Knight leaning forward, a bit of worry shining in his gaze. She waved him off, letting out an embarrassed huff and managing to regain a bit of decorum; yet that was slightly shattered by the wide grin that refused to leave her muzzle, nor the dampness that refused to vacate her eyes.

“Sorry, I…I haven’t had a pony ask me out on such a beautiful outing in ages. If I may ask, did you cheat and ask my sister?” Luna questioned, prompting a proud grin from Shifting.

“I am wounded! I most certainly did not cheat and ask your sister!” Shifting proclaimed, then dropping his gaze to the floor with a bit of reddening on his cheeks.

“I did however, look through the items you visited on your day off, from various papers. And then a bit of guesswork, and what I know about you. Oh, I did tell Celestia about our date though, and she approved. I thought it only fitting though. I don’t want your sister to feel as though I ignore her familial position.”

The stallion jumped slightly; a blue hoof bringing him close for a brief hug. “That’s very sweet, Shifting, and thank you. I think my sister appreciated that much more than she portrayed,” Luna remarked, letting him go with a giggle.

“I am impressed by your detective skills, and rather flattered. I look forward to tomorrow; may I at least get a hint for the main activity?”

Shifting smiled, tapping a hoof to his chin in thought. “A hint? I don’t think that’s fair! Besides, during a mystery, it’s the process that is the interesting part!”

Luna’s eye twitched slightly; her glare definitely softened by the smile on her face. “That is an interesting clue…”

“Oh, I did mean to ask, you can eat dairy, correct?” the stallion asked, prompting a perplexed look from Luna.

“Yes? Why?”

Shifting trotted forward, leaning in close- “Because I’d hate to make my jokes too cheesy.”

Luna promptly face-hoofed, letting out a groan. “That was horrible, Shifting. Shame on you.”

“At least now I can make up for such jokes with my Commanding presence!” Shifting grinned, prompting a sigh from the still-grinning Alicorn.

“Oh no.”

Author's Note

THE LUNAR KNIGHTS RETURN! :yay: With Commander Shifting Sands is at the helm!
Aaand our interesting stallion gets some date ideas; what could he have in mind for the main event? Hmm. At least it's big-sister approved! But something seems to be bothering Celestia....

Changeling segment was brought on by a mention from Venerable Ro, so thank you for that! Changelings would certainly have a vested interest against Windigos, but how much can they do against such evil.....

Chapter Ten: Honesty, And A Perfectly Packaged Date

Luna trotted happily down the halls looking over the nightly briefing that had been left with her breakfast. Celestia apparently had been in the mood for pancakes…at night.

Not that Luna was going to complain; her sister was a fantastic cook!

There was something however, that prompted the Lunar Princess to seek out her sister. It had been a brief exchange the day before; bidding her sister good-morning and excitedly telling her about her date. Something about Celestia’s reaction had been…muted? False? Not correct terms though; Luna just couldn’t put her hoof on it.

My sister should be in her study; for the hour or so of wind-down time we have before we retire. The bonus of that day off; showing us that we need some relaxing time!

Knocking on her sister’s door, Luna walked in on hearing the customary ‘Come in.’

We all need some down time. I just hope I’m not interrupting anything import-

Luna’s thoughts ground to a halt on seeing a dozen papers strewn out in front of Celestia, the other ruler sipping some berry tea as she looked over the documents.

“Ah, Luna! What can I do for you?” Celestia asked, clearly ignoring her sister’s surprised expression.

“I had a question, but now I have two. Isn’t this your relaxing hour?” Luna asked, easily picking up the shift in her sister’s demeanor. The other alicorn now looked to her tea, and then to the documents.

“Yes, but I wanted to read over a few things.”

Luna looked at a few of the papers, raising an eyebrow in curiosity. “The transfer of ruling power to Twilight and her friends? Is that not already settled, at least in a general sense?”

Celestia still refused to look at Luna, shrugging her shoulders. “Yes, but I merely wanted to review things. The whole ceremony, us flying off nobly into the sunset, as though never to be seen again, our ‘last’ raising and lowering of the sun and moon, the other ‘last’ things we’ll do…”

Letting Celestia talk, Luna sat down slowly; there was very little emotion behind her sister’s voice, as though she was simply reciting some wrote script. It was the same tone she took during difficult negotiations, keeping her mind on a single track.

“Of course, we’ll help her behind the scenes for a year or two, make sure she’s settled, but I’m sure she and her friends can handle things. I just hope I haven’t pushed her too hard; we have dropped odd hints which must seem random at times. Hmm. I suppose there is no other way to go about it, other than the ‘last time we do such and such,’ because for a generation, I suppose that is true. After that of course, plans will change, because Twilight and her friends will eventually-even if they ascend, t-they...”

“Sister.”

Luna’s simple word snapped Celestia out of her daze, the younger sister shaking her head. “We have been through this, Cellie,” Luna whispered sadly, “and it is a fact that will not change. That is not the reason you are distracting yourself though. I want to help- but I don’t know how I can. Why are you choosing such a personal and painful topic to occupy your thoughts?”

Celestia grit her teeth, setting aside her tea with a sigh. “As observant as ever. I was a fool to think I could hide conflict from you.”

“No, you still can; but this is something beyond your ability to conceal. Please, sister, what is it?”

Shaking her head, Celestia didn’t say anything at first. It only took a glance though- her eyes meeting Luna’s for a split second.

In an instant, a familiar set of eyes replaced the Solar Princess’s; predatory, leering, and looking back at her from a mirror as emotion overcame logic. It was a moment that Luna remembered quite clearly from over a thousand years ago.

Of course.

“Tia…” Luna whispered, genuine care and pity overcoming her surprise. “You are envious.”

Celestia turned away, not wanting her sister to see the pained expression that shattered the carefully-curated mask that still struggled to stay in place.

“It is not right nor fair to you.”

Luna walked over to her sister, spreading a comforting wing over Celestia’s back. To her surprise, the contact causing the alabaster alicorn to shiver, sides shaking slightly.

“I am happy for you, I truly am, that is not a lie,” Celestia whispered. “I should be better than this, a better ruler, a better sister than to-”

“Tia, please be quiet,” Luna whispered, shaking her head, “just because our subjects think of us as other-worldly and without feeling, doesn’t mean we are. Have you forgotten which of us fell prey to a creature of envy, jealousy, and anger first?”

A sad chuckle left Celestia frame, Luna’s words clearly hitting home. “And you are right, of course. That doesn’t make me feel any less guilty.”

Waiting for a time, Luna’s ears pinned back at her next question. “Do you have feelings for Shifting as well?”

A loud snort left Celestia’s muzzle, the alicorn letting out a genuine laugh before composing herself. “Oh goodness no, I do think he’s a fantastic stallion, don’t get me wrong, because I fully approve of Shifting. It’s not him specifically; just how…relaxed you can be around him. That said, I don’t think I ever could fall for that sort.”

Luna blinked, her brow furrowing. “That sort?”

Celestia was quiet for a few moments, her wings drooping slightly. “When you see ponies as subjects, or a form of children for a thousand years, and they see you as a nigh-unapproachable Goddess, that view is very hard to break from, both from my perspective, and theirs, despite my efforts. You are lucky, in that respect. When you returned, you immediately showed that you’re just a pony like anyone else.”

“…by terrifying half of Ponyville?”

“And then by remedying the situation, yes. But my happiness for you and Shifting has brought out things I have since been able to ignore for a thousand years. And don’t you dare feel guilty about that though. If anything, it’s healthy to finally deal with it all, as much as it’s distressing.”

Luna frowned, her own wings now slightly slumping.

You do not speak much of those years; why is that? Are they that painful for you?

…perhaps I am naïve in assuming they are not.

“I cannot help you with this, can I, Tia? I wish I could…”

“Just keep being yourself, Lulu. That’s all I’ve ever wanted. Despite those horrible words I used during our argument on our day off, you are worth more to me than anything.”

Luna paused, a smile meandering on her features at Celestia’s remark. “I do promise to be dependable. Of all the things you could have said, by the way, it was hardly that mean. I was surprised though, why did you say that specifically?”

Celestia picked up her tea, draining the steaming cup in a single gulp. Her expression bordered on a frown, but her brow indicated the alicorn was deep in thought.

“How can I put this?” she whispered. “The thought of losing you again, of not having another pony I can truly depend on again, be it for conversation, support, or anything, that thought is…” The word seemed to stick to Celestia’s teeth like glue, refusing to leave until the ruler looked at the floor. “It is frightening.”

Luna drew a mental string between two ideas, venturing a guess. “Tia, is this about before, about the time you ruled without me?”

“Yes.”

The single word was so softly spoken that Luna almost missed it, but the single syllable carried a millennium of weight to it, soaked with pain and fear.

“I won’t ask, unless you want me to. It hasn’t gone unseen by me your unwillingness to discuss anything other than basic history of the past, and I will respect that. Just know I’m here for you, Tia. And I’m sure Shifting is too; I could order him to read you bed-time stories after all.”

A genuine chuckle left Celestia’s frame, the alicorn hugging her sister close with a sigh. “That won’t be necessary; but thank you, Lulu. Thank you for being so understanding.”

“Anytime, Tia, anytime.”

Celestia took a deep breath, letting it out slowly as she pushed her sister away to forelimb-length, a sly smile meandering onto her features.

“Now then, don’t you need to get ready for your date?” she teased,

Completely without shame, Luna nodded and welcomed the change in atmosphere. Quite literally bouncing out of Celestia’s room with a smile, she happily waved briefly.

“Indeed, I do dear sister, sleep well!”

Shifting shifted nervously at the castle entrance, adjusting the Lunar Knight breastplate for the umpteenth time. The rest of the armor was absent- but the newly upgraded piece was the perfect balance between formal and casual.

Still looks the same, but has that new stronger metal liner! I’m just happy I could keep my enchantments on it intact. I wonder when Luna will get here? Ugh. Over a thousand years old and it feels like I’m asking a filly to a school dance!

An awareness of a certain event in the next week or two then rose to the fore, prompting the stallion to smile. I suppose that may be more applicable than not. But I hope this is appropriate. I feel just odd without any armor.

“Shifting?” a familiar voice drew his attention, prompting the Commander to smile.

“Luna!” he piped up, gesturing to the expanse of Canterlot behind them. “Art thou ready for lovely night?” he asked, prompting a giggle as the Princess took his outstretched hoof.

“We surely are. What ‘tis the plan, my noble Knight?”

Shifting couldn’t help but chuckle as they walked towards the main city, levitating a small paper out from the satchel at his side.

“Well, first is the main activity. If that goes on for longer than planned, the other portions of the evening can be possibly pushed…erm, to another time.”

Luna grinned, clearly spying an opening. “Are you already planning for a second date, Shifting?” she teased as they walked, prompting the stallion’s ears to perk up as he stammered.

“I-not like- I mean-”

“Such boldness. Such audacity from my new commander!”

“Luna, I didn’t-”

“To think you’d be so forward on our first date…”

Shifting paused, his expression now deadpanned as his ears twitched. “This is payback for earlier, isn’t it?” he grumbled, prompting a pleasant laugh.

“For what? I can’t imagine paying you back for something….”

“Totally. Is.”

Luna’s giggle made the Commander smile as they meandered the streets, making their way to the industrial center of Canterlot. Pausing at a massive warehouse-like building, Shifting nodded to the sleepy night guard who waved them through. The earth pony clearly wasn’t paid enough to care about a planned royal visit, because the only sign of surprise was a slight widening of his eyes as Luna trotted after Shifting.

Pausing in a dreary reception room, complete with a worn couch, simple wooden table, and a few filing cabinets, Luna looked around, rather puzzled at the choice of location.

“A warehouse? I am intrigued,” she murmured, examining a small box and sticker that Shifting levitated over to her.

“Aaaand this is for you. Can you please write down your mailing address?” Shifting asked, prompting a smile as Luna accepted a pen.

“Did my sister clue you in on how much I adore the process of mail, Shifting?” Luna quipped as she scribbled on the small address sticker.

“A bit, but you’ve already mailed something to yourself. I wouldn’t want to repeat an experience completely,” Shifting grinned gesturing to the alicorn as they walked down the halls, dim lights illuminating their way.

Throwing open a large metal door, Shifting gestured to the massive interior room of the warehouse, flicking on a light switch that sent lights sputtering on across the roof. Dozens of large machines dotted a series of conveyer belts, magical gems sparkling as the wonders of magic and electricity were harnessed into the various devices.

“Miss Luna, may I present one of the primary packaging, sorting, and mailing centers of Canterlot. It is almost fully automated, actually,” Shifting declared, motioning for Luna to follow as they walked down a metal catwalk, stopping near one of the larger conveyer belts.

“I thought you might be interested in seeing how it all works,” the stallion remarked, motioning to the empty belt. “That sticker is enchanted to make the machines run slower so we can follow it through the entire process of being packaged, sorted among some other items, and then put out for delivery. I can explain some of the basic functions of each machine too, if you’d like.”

He waited a few moments, a few nerves creeping into his system. “What do you think?” the Lunar Knight finally asked, not able to read Luna’s expression.

His hesitation vanished as the biggest smile plastered itself across Luna’s face, her eyes lighting up with joy. As she turned to look at her date, Shifting felt his heart skip a beat. The stallion had never seen someone look at him with such utter adoration and elation, the Alicorn now beginning to hop up and down with excitement, green eyes sparkling with eager energy.

“When can we start?!”

Shifting trotted over to flick a large breaker, then motioned towards the conveyer belt. “Just place the package and off we go!”

The simple delight that radiated from Luna was enough to make Shifting’s entire frame glow.

She likes it, she really likes it!

As he explained the process of how the machine in front of them wrapped up the small wooden box, one thought couldn’t escape the stallion’s mind as a pair of green eyes were still burned into his mind’s eye.

I’d like nothing more than to have Luna look at me like that again…

Shifting led Luna through the process, following her now-packaged wooden box along the conveyer. He couldn’t explain every intricate detail of the machines, but the few-hour tour taken previously let him answer most of her questions. Everything from the automated packing machine to the rapid-fire flipper that sorted packages by scanning the magical signature on each had Luna bouncing with excitement, the alicorn dashing to the next station to watch the box zip this way and that around the warehouse.

Even with the slightly-slowed down process, it came to an end far too quickly for her liking so it seemed. As the small wooden box was deposited neatly into a large fabric container to be transported out, Luna’s ears pinned back slightly, the fascinating journey of the package having reached its end.

Shifting, however, had only a sly smile on his features. “Hey, Luna?”

The alicorn turned around, and her green eyes lit up once again as her date levitated four more small boxes over to her.

“I had a feeling you’d want to take a look more than once. Remember, you can’t open them until they arrive!”

Shifting’s heart did a flip in his chest as a look he was quickly starting to adore re-entered Luna’s gaze, the alicorn happy accepting one of the boxes as they walked back to the start of the entire conveyer system once again.

“You are the best, Shifting!” Luna remarked happily, setting the item down and sending it on its way. As she eagerly watched it traverse the warehouse, Shifting couldn’t help but continued to smile. The inner workings of the mail system were interesting to him; but definitely not to the extent that Luna enjoyed it. And yet he was perfectly content to follow his date down the walkways, occasionally remembering a detail about the machines he had forgotten as Luna eyed the box on the conveyer belt.

She was happy, and looked more carefree than the stallion had seen her in a while.

What more could I want for her, for any pony I care about?

His smile only grew as they went through the process three more times, the stallion inwardly itching for a few future events to occur.

Just wait until she opens the boxes!

After running the system a final time at full speed, Luna let out a satisfied huff, trotting over to Shifting as the final box plopped into the fabric container,

“That…was INCREDIBLE!” She squealed, hopping up and down and gesturing to the warehouse. “I had no idea such fascinating devices could sort and package mail so efficiently! No wonder the cities are able to deliver the items on time! This is amazing, Shifting! And you knew about how the machines worked, and how long it took and…..” a very un-princess-like squeal then left her muzzle, the alicorn calming down briefly as she looked at her very amused date.

“Thank you, Shifting,” she whispered, reaching down to nuzzle the top of his head ever so slightly before backing up, curiosity entering her gaze.

“What’s next on your schedule?”

Snapping out of his surprise-affection-induced surprise, Shifting pulled out the small bit of paper and let out a hum, checking the time on his worn pocket watch.

“I don’t know if we have time for both of the things; how about a short meal before Night Court begins?” he suggested, a smile and a nod Luna’s reply.

“That sounds lovely.”

“Sounds good! Now then, stand still please,” the Knight instructed, walking a bit closer and tapping the ground with a hoof. A rune etched itself onto the ground as magic surrounded the pair. The two vanished in a flash of light- but not before a telekinetic nudge turned off the power to the warehouse.

Reappearing on a grassy hill, Shifting nodded in approval as a picknick basket appeared next to them. The small grassy area was set into the side of the Canterlot Cliffs, the view of which overlooked the main city. One of many elevated parks, they were only accessibly to Pegasi, or after a very long hike up the worn stone stairs that wound through and up to the mountain peak.

The lights of Canterlot glittered down below, half of the city slumbering while the late-night scene was in full swing. A light breeze blew this way and that, making sure no clouds or fog obscured the clear night sky.

“It’s gorgeous,” Luna whispered, letting out a long, peaceful breath. Shifting could almost see what little tension threatened to creep in vanish, the Princess clearly enjoying the simple sound of nothing but the wind and distant hum of the city.

Note to self; just relax for next date with that book.

“I haven’t been to these parks too often; but I’m glad I discovered them. It’s a nice place to relax once in a while, especially whenever I need to think, which does in fact happen more often than many would imagine.”

Luna smirked at the joke, accepting a levitated bundle of seasoned vegetables wrapped in a thick tortilla.

“Before you ask, I have no idea what these are called other than ‘vegies inside a pastry,’” Shifting remarked, taking a bite with a grin. “But my goodness are they tasty.”

“Mmmf!”

Apparently, a happy mouthful of said food was a good reply as any from Luna, the Princess settling down on the grass. They didn’t speak for a time, only watching the sights as they ate. It was Luna who finally glanced over to her date, sincerity shining in her lively emerald eyes.

“This has been one of the nicest nights I’ve had in a very, very long time, Shifting,” she mused, a slight smirk on her muzzle as Shifting’s ears immediately stood up at attention. “It is a curious thing, and I mean this in the kindest way of course. Perhaps I’m wrong, but this is how I feel about it least. Whenever I spend time with you, I feel as though there is only one expectation to fulfil. There’s no strange lofty ideal as a Princess, no duties; only the expectation that I be…me.”

Her smile twitched, lips quivering ever so slightly. “I don’t think I’ve realized how much I appreciate that, being around somepony who not only expects such a thing, but wants that. So, thank you, Shifting.”

The Knight, having listened attentively nodded, looking over to the Princess briefly before his own brow furrowed. “You are most welcome, and are correct, Luna, of that I want to make clear,” he remarked, “I didn’t ask you on a date because I wanted to spend time with some façade of a Princess, neither did I maintain my loyalty for a millennium for that same reason. You garnered such feelings- not the mask you wore. I’m honored, and simply glad you feel comfortable enough to be yourself around me. I hope never to betray that trust.”

A soft huff caught his attention, an ever-so-slight smirk on Luna’s features now apparent.

“Somehow, I don’t think that will ever be an issue. If you do, I would assume it to be of a misunderstanding rather than ill intent.”

Shifting nodded in agreement, plucking a few strands of grass up to examine them. “And you’d be right. Creatures, myself included, are far more likely to be ignorant or simply idiotic rather than malicious. That’s a comfort, I think.”

He then grinned, not able to resist a soft chuckle. “I guess we didn’t need an art book to get philosophical. I do enjoy such topics though.”

“Perhaps we can explore that on our next date?”

Luna’s words, spoken with a bit of hesitation, caused Shifting to glance over to her. The alicorn sported an adorable blush on her cheeks, only occasionally glancing over to the Knight.

There’s a time for jokes, and then a time for not.

Shifting reached over a hoof, giving Luna’s a soft squeeze briefly as he nodded. “A second date? I’d really like that, whenever we can fit it in. I’m just happy we could have this short time during a crisis.”

Luna’s blush didn’t abate for a few moments, her eyes flickering down to her previously-held-hoof. “I’m glad too. But perhaps in trial, the best relationships are formed?”

“…are you suggesting I thank the Windigos?”

A snort left Luna’s nose, the Alicorn then clutching her sides to contain her laughter at Shifting’s completely-serious tone.

“N-not entirely!”

A soft chime broke Luna from her reverie- the Alicorn summoning a simple spell and frowning at the magical report that scrolled in front of her.

“Hmm. Interesting.”

“What is it?”

She angled the spell, a simple note shining in the light.

“It would seem we have an interesting development that couldn’t wait. I told the staff to not contact me unless absolutely necessary.”

Shifting’s eyes widened as he read the short note, the words a stark contrast to the peaceful night.

‘Message from unknown source for Commander Sands. An enchanted parchment appeared inside, and will not leave the throne room. A strange voice requested him as the words appeared on the scroll, and it has been blank since.

Commander’s eyes only.’

“You sure that all will be well?” Luna asked, the pair now outside the throne room doors. The pleasant and calm moment of their date was still a pleasant afterglow in their minds, but business and the safety of Equestria took priority.

At least for now.

“I’ll be fine. Whoever this is enchanted a message for me, specifically, and spoke from it. I imagine they’d be able to detect a presence near the parchment other than me,” Shifting explained, waving to Luna as she grumbled in agreement, not able to resist an adoring look over her date as he was now fully-clad in his armor.

“I’ll get set for Night Court then; and then wait to hear your report. Or if all is quiet, I may poke my head in if that seems appropriate. Good luck, Commander Sands,” she turned to leave, and then shot him a gentle smile. “And thank you for a lovely evening.”

Shifting bowed extravagantly, a pleasant giggle his reward as the pair parted ways. He took a deep breath and trotted into the throne room, where indeed a large parchment floated in front of the throne.

How odd.

The magical scan he set off on the object yielded nothing; the cacophony of spells entwined around the artifact only told him that it was, in fact, heavily enchanted.

“Well aren’t you a strange object! Let me see if I can find a quill…” Shifting mused, then paused as the parchment glowed, two sentences appearing;

‘Commander Shifting Sands? I can hear you.’

“Alright, what do you want? You requested me, and me alone; that is the case. You also apparently can speak from that thing?” Shifting remarked, sitting up straight.

The parchment glowed, a deep rumble leaving from it. It was only then that Shifting realized it was a chuckle.

“Indeed,” the deep voice spoke; the word writing itself as well on the artifact. “I can never separate voice and writing, only the writing. Odd, but oh well,” the serious tone was abruptly lost, the user apparently thinking to itself before returning to its original somberness, voice slightly distorted with a concealing spell. “I come with a message, warning, request, and two simple questions.”

An odd way to phrase it…

Shifting’s eyes narrowed slightly, his protective runes on a hair-trigger for deployment. “What is it, then? Why this secrecy? Who are you?”

The voice sighed, and Shifting could imagine somecreature shaking their head.

“Good questions, but none of which are relevant at this time. The message and warning is this; if I cannot stop this fanatical group in the coming few months, thousands will die. Now, here is my full message and warning.”

That got the Knight’s attention, the pony waiting as the voice continued.

“I don’t know who they are working for, and I cannot even tell you where they are. At the slightest hint of discovery, they will scatter, and I won’t be able to disrupt them. Be on your guard; know that the immediate threat you currently face is not the only one striving for the destruction of Equestria. I dare not give you too much information lest you act- and I am sorry for that. Only know that you must be cautious. My request may clarify what this potential threat is, however. I must ask, no, I beg of you to obtain these supplies for every single city.”

The parchment began to write- no words being spoken. Shifting saw the first few items and quickly retrieved his own paper and quill, scrawling the items down quickly.

As each item was listed, the room got colder, Shifting feeling a very alien chill up his spine.

‘Essential supplementary supplies:

Oxygen equipment

Immune-boosting supplements

Sanitary items for close-contact with patients

High-hazard protective gear

Recommend shelter-in-place supplies for all citizens

Ect.’

It wasn’t a fear he had encountered often. But the mental imagery of the few times Shifting had come across it…

An entire village dead, sprawled out in their huts.

Houses aflame, ponies desperately burning any and all items their dead loved ones had touched, or even breathed upon.

The Commander’s breath caught in his chest as another image burned itself into his mind’s eye; his entire family sprawled out in front of him, desperately clinging to life. An audible sucking of air reached his ears, and the Knight realized he was borderline hyperventilating.

No. Not this again. Who would be….

“Ah. And now you understand, at least in part. Good. See these preparations through, and we may very well get through this trying time. If I fail, these supplies will blunt the effects. If I succeed and nothing comes of it, you can blame it all on a voice from a scroll.”

Shifting narrowed his eyes at the floating parchment, voice now a deadly hiss. “This group is seeking to unleash this?! And you cannot tell me what it is? Who are you?”

The voice paused, an audible tiredness creeping into the deep tone. “First, my two questions. Commander, did you find the Satyr’s paw in a body of water? Did you destroy it after it was used?”

Shifting stared at the parchment, runes slowly starting to activate across his body. “Who. Are. You?! How do you know of that thing? How do you know of me?” he growled, prompting a sigh from the voice.

“I am a friend, one who may owe you an apology, and one who may have to beg your forgiveness. Please, did you find the paw in any sort of water?”

Pausing at hearing the genuine regret in the voice, Shifting continued to stare at the scroll.

“Yes, a lake. It was washed up on the shore, and it is indeed destroyed. I threw it into a furnace and watched it dissolve after being used.”

A loud sigh echoed through the chamber, as well as a dull ‘thunk.’

Did…whoever that is just hit their head on a table?

“I…was afraid of that. I am so sorry, Commander Sands,” the voice whispered. “You had more foresight than I did in destroying that accursed object, and for that I am grateful. I tried to look for the paw for years; and yet it eluded my grasp. No doubt that cursed item made its way into one of the many streams near the mountain peak I threw it off of, and made its way into your life. They say such evil has a mind of its own.”

“What?!”

The scroll cleared, and Shifting took a reflective step back. Two eyes, clouded by concealing magic looked back at him; and while the face and color was blurred, the genuine regret behind the gaze was almost palpable.

“Thank you for your time, Commander Sands. If I fail, I may send a creature who can help- watch for him. Please store the potions I will be brewing; they will mitigate the coming storm, if such a thing is to come to pass,” the voice mused, now sounding more tired than anything. “I hope we never have to meet, Commander, for such an event would mean great tragedy is upon us all. But perhaps the fate of Equestria will deem otherwise. If nothing else, I do indeed beg your forgiveness for my error and failure. Until we meet speak again, farewell.”

“WAIT! Who are you? Are you-”

The parchment cleared, a single signature making Shifting’s jaw drop.

‘Good luck to us both, Commander.

-The First Wisher.’

Shifting was still staring at the now-normal parchment, blank except for the signature when Luna poked her head in a few minutes later.

“Shifting? What-”

Shifting’s rear limbs gave out, sending the Commander thudding to the floor.

“Who was it?”

Shifting levitated the parchment over to Luna- who promptly copied his wide-eyed stare.

“This…cannot be,” she whispered.

“It is. And all I know is that he, if it is a he, says is a friend. I have a list of supplies he begged me to force-order for all cities.”

Luna’s face grew cold as she read over Shifting’s copied list, a curt nod in reply. “I do indeed think all major hospitals are due for an overhaul.”

“I have sufficient funds to subsidize a good deal of these as well,” Shifting added, prompting a shocked look from Luna.

“Shifting? Why? I’m sure we can find the money, especially considering the royal treas-”

The Commander shook his head, looking at the list of supplies with an almost hateful expression. “That will take too long. I’m not about to wait on a threat that nearly cost me my family- but did cost me a great deal more,” he hissed, then pausing. His expression softened, looking over to Luna. Regret that would have usually accompanied the thoughts of his millennium-old choice was now replaced with a warm glow in the stallion’s chest as two curious and concerned eyes looked back at him.

“You know, whoever that was, he begged my forgiveness. I would have felt much differently in the past about such things. But now? Using that paw; I’m starting to think it wasn’t that bad a choice after all. In fact…” A determined smile edged onto the Commander’s features, his nerves burning away.

“I’d say I’m rather glad I did. Now then, Princess. I think we have some more paperwork to fill out,” he then reached over and gently ‘booped’ Luna on the nose with a hoof. “And, in the spare time, plan another date.”

Author's Note

I love the fact Luna is a bit of a nerd, in her own respect. It's adorable.:rainbowlaugh: I could see the two just following the item, Luna just absolutely ecstatic as it is boxed, sorted, and then up for delivery.
Shifiting: 1 Bad Date Ideas: 0

Poor Celestia though...we get a hint of what has been bothering her. A thousand years of lone rule being viewed as a Goddess- what would that do to a pony?
I've taken a different view on her than most; taking into account those unique 1k years, so I'm curious as to what you all think- and I know I may ruffle some feathers with all this. As for Twilight's implied life...it's an uncommon view, but I'm going off of what resources I have. (A tweet, from M.Mc. in this case.Tweet Link And just what logic I can muster.)

I won't touch too much more on those matters in this fic, however. That's for another time...
Hmmmmmmm. Who is this mysterious individual? You didn't think I'd let the topic of the Satyr's paw disappear that fast did you?
Shifting was, after all, the second user of the paw.

As always, feedback is appreciated! :twilightsmile:

Chapter Twelve: Shadows

“It’s not about a pony.”

“Shifting, are you about to ruin another one of my favorite poems?” Luna asked, head resting against the stallion’s shoulder as they examined the old poetic tome in front of them.

“I mean, I can just not tell you?”

“….I want to know.”

“It’s not a fruit, I’ll give you that.”

That answer did little to ease Luna’s pouting, gesturing to a line in the poem. “This line has me suspicious.”

“Keep going.”

“And this, that could reference to something other than a lover’s feelings.”

“Getting warmer…”

“Wait. Shifting. You said it is not a fruit. Is it a vegetable!?”

“….”

“IS IT A CARROT? THE ALLEGORY OF A CAKE, IT MEANS-?!”

Shifting began to cackle, Luna’s indignant expression too much to bear as he tried to catch his breath.

“C-carrot cake. Y-yes!” Shifting gasped, now leaning against his rather miffed marefriend as he struggled to breath.

“That is the fifth poem you have ruined for me,” Luna grumbled, pouting as she levitated a currently-offensive orange vegetable into Shifting’s grinning mouth.

After munching away the snack, Shifting’s grin simply got wider, the stallion gesturing to the book again.

“You know that rather intimate poem? The one with figures of speech? The one that would make anypony blush on mentioning the term ‘grapevine?’ Same author….”

“No, don’t you dare!”

“He really did mean grapes.”

“IS NOTHING IN THIS BOOK SACRED?!”

Shifting finally managed to control his mirth, Luna’s pouting features only making him smile wider.

“Y-you asked! I’m just being your loyal coltfriend!”

The two promptly dissolved into giggles and chuckles, a soft magical chime then snapping them back to reality.

“Time for the reports, I guess,” Shifting muttered, Luna sighing in agreement as they sat up slightly, shifting on the garden grass.

“Aye, but at least we got an hour or two.”

As the parchments appeared in front of them, the Commander’s eyes narrowed at seeing a few select passages.

“Looks like there’s a nasty bug going around; cropped up in Manehatten and Baltimare. Some form of the common cold it looks like, but it’s moving rather fast. A few hundred cases within a week. They didn’t bother reporting it until now simply because it’s not terribly harmful, and they thought it was allergies at first. But I don’t like that…that’s far too many for a cold, and far too fast.”

“Is it what the First Wisher warned us about?”

“I don’t know- but I’m going to kick another order down the line, and make sure the medical supply factories are still spinning at max capacity. No deaths so far; just a lot of tired and sniffling ponies. The strange ‘cure’ our wisher friend sent is still being tested in the labs; but they should move onto trials soon. If it works against this cold outbreak, then we know it is what we were warned of. We’re still getting a hundred doses every now and again, so the threat must still be out there; I’ll keep an eye on it.”

Luna nodded, letting out a hum as she read her own report. “We can only hope otherwise. Ah, good. Twilight visited my sister today, that should lift her spirits. Apparently, she was quite miffed when she discovered that you destroyed the Paw, something about the loss of a ‘priceless artifact.’ Apparently, she’s touring the evening ‘night life’ before heading back later.”

Shifting let out a snort, waving a hoof dismissively. “Eh, that artifact was only good for getting one thing. Misery,” he then paused, leaning over with a cheesy smile towards his marefriend. “Weeeeeell, maybe two things, the second being much more attractive and beautiful…”

“Oh you,” she shoved him over with a shoulder, words not hiding the blush on her cheeks.

“How are the Knights progressing?”

Shifting shuffled through the papers, then grinning at the newest report from his trainees. “Moving along. They’ve been training remarkable hard; impressively so. They’ve already run through the various lethal combat measures this week, and have been honing them for another few days straight. Silty Stone continues to impress me; she’s definitely squad leader material. Bitter Blade actually started teaching his first class of recruits the other day; he was floored by the offer, but so far, it was a good choice. So, I’d say as of now, you have a combat-ready squad of Lunar Knights. As of yesterday, I felt comfortable placing them on combat readiness, at least in case of low-level emergencies. I wouldn’t pit them against a manticore just yet, but they’re definitely above the average guard and well on their way to being much more. We have two squads of Night Guard thestrals active as well. Newbies and fresh out of training, but they’re just as qualified as the Royal Guard.”

Luna nodded approvingly, standing up as she stretched. “That is good to hear. Too long have we gone without Lunar Knights; and I look forward to seeing them improve further, as well as the organization expand. I assume you’re going to check on them now?”

Shaking his head, Shifting followed Luna back from the gardens, the two meandering towards the throne room.

“Actually, I was hoping to sit in on a session of the Night Court. They’re just studying for a test today; I already instructed them multiple times on the practice maneuvers.”

“It will be boring, I think.”

“Eh. Then I get to sit next to my marefriend. Oh, the horror. Oh, the absolute tragedy, such time wasted.

“Shifting….”

“Whatever will I do? Might I pine away in my heart as nobles flatter thy soul with meaningless words?”

“Oh no…”

“I shall swear on my Knightly vow, to top any flattery from such political barbarians! Thou should only have the best of words, the noblest of pleasing phrases to thy ear!” Shifting proclaimed proudly, the two trotting into the throne room.

“This is going to be a long court.”

“VERILY! THY EARS SHALL RING WITH MY PRAISE!”

“Oh, stars above, Shifting.”

Staring at the pile of treasure in front of them, an earth pony’s ears flicked back, the dozen or so other individuals shaking their heads.

“Well, the Emissary came through, huh?” one of them piped up. “Not bad for a few weeks of teaching ‘cons to fight. I’m surprised nopony got caught slipping that tranquilizer into sun-butt’s meal. Pity the one in Luna’s was defective.”

“Yeah, but was it all worth Barley’s life? That witch killed him for no reason!”

A low chuckle reached their ears, the second in command of the group shaking his head, the pony being one of the oldest members.

“You don’t get it, do you son?” he remarked, sitting down to examine a large emerald. “Oh, there was a reason- that loudmouth just didn’t see it, like you don’t.”

“What reason then? So he mouthed off! Big deal! You don’t kill over that!”

“Oh, but you do,” the older pony mused, gesturing to the treasure. “See some of those gold-plated swords? Those are older than our grandparents. That witch is from a different time, I think. Long ago, in armies, do you know the penalty for public treason? For openly defying and questioning orders? Death,” he stated flatly.

“Barley questioned her orders, integrity, and even threatened to tell some of the ‘cons how ‘bad’ her plan was. No, she had a reason; illogical by our standards…but if any of you lads had read a history book, you’d see the brutal logic in it.”

The group was silent, a few heads nodding knowingly.

“But Princess Twilight? Of all ponies to try and kill…and w-we h-helped….” a younger mercenary stuttered in horror, the full reality of the past few weeks finally settling in.

“Put it out of your mind,” the older pony barked, tossing the younger individual a golden bit. “You took the job you get to live with it however you see fit. Everypony has a limit to what job they’ll take.”

Another voice piped up, the unicorn staring at a rather large diamond in his grasp. “And how will you deal with it? What’s your limit?”

The older pony let out a huff, casually stuffing his share into a canvas bag. “Lad, this went beyond my limit the moment I saw a hundred of those misty-eyed freaks staring me down like I was some kind of hayburger. I’m going to toss my weapons and armor off a cliff, live out my days in peace and try to sleep at night. I’m done with this mess.”

As their second-in-command trotted down the mountain, the other mercenaries stared at the treasure. As the distant sound of a clock reverberated through the night, they knew the operation was about to commence.

“Shifting, don’t you dare,” Luna hissed as another petitioner left. Her Commander had, for the past five rude nobles that had entered, whispered exactly what their garb made him think of first.

Thus far, the descriptions had been less than flattering.

Decorum aside, it had been a fantastic way to raise Luna’s spirits. That said, it was exactly what she needed, the rude words otherwise carrying with them a bit more of a bite to her demeanor.

“…dead fish.”

A soft *snrk* left Luna’s mouth, the alicorn shaking her head. “You’re horrible.”

Shifting grinned, eyes then narrowing as a hasty report teleported itself in front of his face. “Huh. Apparently, there’s some sort of disturbance in front of the palace. Maybe some protestors? Any unpopular laws go into effect?”

Luna shook her head, prompting the Commander’s eyes to narrow, especially as some distant sounds grew closer. It was only when the clash of metal on metal reached his ears, that the Knight tapped his hooves, sending runes spiraling across his body.

“Luna. Your armor,” he hissed, then activating a small communications crystal.

“Night Guard! General emergency in the palace; report to supportive positions! Lunar Knights! Emergency in the throne room. This is not an exercise, code: Whisper on the Wind.”

The communication crystal blinked, indicating all parties had received it- and then shut off, a dampening field activating. Armor weaved itself around both Shifting and Luna; the Alicorn taking no chances. A helmet, greaves and breastplate attached to her frame, a sword with a blade as dark as shadow itself levitating in her grasp. The final pieces of Shifting’s own armor solidified into existence, his sabre held at the ready as the doors to the throne room shivered.

“You two, stand back,” Shifting ordered the two Night Guards, the recent graduates holding their spears with shivering grips.

“Stay close to Luna, and make sure nopony sneaks up on us. Can you do that?” he ordered, seeing two affirmative nods in reply. “Remember your training; I didn’t push you hard just to have you quail under pressure! Stand firm!”

The Guard nodded, retreating to Luna’s side with their spears at the ready, the doors to the room finally opening. Thirty strong ponies flooded in; the rag-tag group of ex-convicts having an assortment of weapons levitated or held in their grips. Their eyes were misty with a magical influence, each pony carrying a slight spring in their step.

“Helloooooo Princess!” the lead one called out, a burly orange earth pony with jagged pieces of metal strapped to his forehooves.

“Well, well, well! Five of you, over thirty of us? This will be quite a brawl! Now then, let’s have…some…”

A soft snicker interrupted the monologue, Shifting gesturing to them with his sabre.

“Is-is this all you brought?” he laughed, then glaring at the leader. “You’ll need more than that to make the Princess of the Night yield!”

The convict blinked, clearly not expecting such a lackadaisical response. “Uh huh. You’re good, that much I know, Commander, but you’re outnumbered six to one!” A familiar red crystal was tossed over, the anti-alicorn spell causing Luna to hiss; her own protective fields barely holding against the invisible onslaught.

“HAVE AT ‘EM BOYS!”

The ponies charged, a soft magical chime sounding in Shifting’s ear; a readiness signal.

“LUNAR KNIGHTS! Defend the Princess!” he bellowed.

Concealment spells fading, a dozen thestrals dove down from the rafters, swords and daggers flashing. The front line of assailants dropped immediately under the Lunar Knight’s attack, the weapons tearing through the pony’s unarmored backs. The leading earth pony took a swing at Shifting- but the unicorn’s saber easily ripped through flesh and bone in response. Silty Stone stood at the Commander’s side, the thestral letting out a deafening screech as she plunged two daggers into the nearest enemy. Three ponies at the rear line hefted familiar spears; the tips glowing with magic-

A bright light nearly blinded everypony, the three individuals collapsing into a pile of dust, Luna’s horn aglow with power.

“THOU DARE THREATEN US?”

It was a full-on route as Luna surged into the fray, sending five ponies flying with powerful kicks and punches. Two more were sent hurtling through the solid stone wall- the Alicorn batting aside spear and blade alike with her own weapon as fury shone in her usually peaceful gaze.

The Lunar Knights easily tore through the disorganized and lightly-trained crowd, the final few ponies throwing down their weapons with a whimper. Shifting pounced on top of one, his saber leveled at the pony’s throat.

“Your plans. SPEAK!”

The convict shook his head. “She’ll kill me!”

“I’LL kill you!”

A soft giggle then reached everypony’s ears, one of the other surrendering convicts nearly collapsing into laughter, eyes drifting across the room casually.

“Y-you? H-her? What does it matter?” the unicorn chuckled, demeanor not changing as the saber levitated over towards him.

“Go ahead! Kill me! Not like it matters!”

Shifting glanced to Luna, the Lunar Knights still standing at the ready. “Oh, I’d say it matters a great deal. You expected to kill Luna with this bunch? Do you have a suicide wish?”

A smile that showed off sharp, filed-down teeth greeted everypony, the unicorn’s voice deepening into a malevolent chuckle. “W-who says we were after Princess Luna?”

The air seemed to chill, the feeling of icewater being injected into Shifting’s entire body as he looked towards the Princess.

“Celestia is safe though, what do you…”

Luna’s eyes widened in horror- the brutal reality now hitting her full force. Shifting reacted faster, leyline magic pouring into his frame.

“Per sidera lunam possum fugere luna me iuvet quaerere!”

The stallion’s figure surged upwards, raw energy pouring from the spells that ignited along his armor, propelling the Lunar Knight through a window that dripped molten glass onto the floor from the speed of the impact. Three words echoed in his mind as Shifting sped onwards, the Knight a shooting star as raw magic sent him hurtling onwards.

“Save her, Shifting!”

Shifting’s heart thudded in his ears, yet the adrenaline quickly wore off as he soared over Canterlot. This was familiar, charging towards an unknown battle with one goal. The only fear was that of failure- yet that had been conquered long ago. The other Knights gave chase; but their wings and speed spells held nothing to this ancient incantation.

I doubt Twilight has minutes to spare!

The location of the Alicorn was easy to find; a distant purple glow illuminating the area.

The train station!

As he neared the platform, the streets became increasingly crowded; what must have been over two hundred ponies packing the area, bristling with weaponry. The few members of the Royal and Night Guards were occupied near the palace, fending off a determined splinter group. A simple spell zoomed Shifting’s vision closer, the Commander able to pick out the details of the scene on the platform.

On the bare concrete pad, a collection of ponies was arrayed around a purple dome, dozens of others standing at the ready. Eight unicorns were set around Twilight’s shield, their horns aimed at the barrier as magic lashed out in an offensive attack. One of them held a familiar glowing red crystal, his horn likewise discharging a spell at the shield. Before Shifting broke the enhancing spell, he saw a single word leave Twilight’s lips, the alicorn’s innocent eyes wide with fear.

“Why?”

Shifting cut the spell, double-checking his protective runes and armor. A magical dampening field made his fur prickle; that would prevent teleportation; but his momentum wasn’t about to be stopped.

Hold on, Twilight!

An ethereal mare strode towards the eight unicorns, her own horn aglow with magic. “Report! How much longer?” she asked, a misty-eyed earth pony trotting up to her.

“Emissary! The Sun Princess has been drugged, and the diversionary force lasted about as long as expected. We should have the shield down within a minute, and then another five before the main bulk of the guard can respond.”

“Good. Now I want you to-”

Cobblestones shattered, stone spraying every which way as something slammed into the ground. The only remains of the reporting pony were a blood-stained smear; the distant ‘thud’ of a body echoing in the distance.

Armor aglow with power, Commander Shifting Sands turned; redirecting the final momentum of his flight to slam into one of the unicorns surrounding Twilight. Sending another screaming pony flying with a punch, Shifting lashed out with his saber- another attacker not even having time to yell as his horn and then throat was sliced clear through. The red crystal was shattered with a punch, the artifact sending shards flying this way and that.

“STOP HIM!” the mare shrieked, an icy spear forming in her magical grasp. Her eyes widened in horror as the unicorn tore into another of the mages; his teeth latching around the shocked pony’s throat. Breaking the unicorn’s neck with a twist of his head, Shifting tossed the body to slow down the rush of others; focusing on the last mages.

Four down, four to go!

Ignoring the incoming crowd, Shifting galloped towards the final unicorns; the two nearest now turning to try and lash out with magic. Their spells glanced off of his shields; Shifting sending his own bolts their way. One collapsed immediately; body scorched by the raw energy. Another gurgled as Shifting’s saber plunged into his chest, collapsing into the ever-increasing amount of blood on the cement platform. The final two managed to score a hit across Shifting’s flank, but the armor easily deflected the hasty bolt. His blade lashed out again- two more throats being sliced as the pony’s fell to the ground.

“Princess Twilight!” Shifting barked, causing the stunned Alicorn to look his way.

“I’m Commander Shifting Sands of the Lunar Knights! I need you to keep that shield up. Avert your eyes please; you don’t to see this. Can you do that for me?”

A simple nod was her reply, Shifting slinging the blood from his saber as he trotted forwards, holding the weapon at ready.

“You! You dare interrupt us again?” a familiar mare hissed, body steaming as though ice freshly removed from a freezer. Ponies now surged forwards, the Emissary beginning to laugh.

“You won’t-”

A magical bolt from Shifting fried the pony at her side; the mare stumbling backwards in surprise as the Commander tackled the nearest convicts.

Just have to hold out!

A cacophony of sounds reached his ears; the rearmost of the hundred-strong group suddenly turning to confront a flurry of movement.

And there’s Luna with the Knights!

Dodging a thrown spear, Shifting levitated the weapon in his grasp, ducking a sword that spun his way. Eying his target, the Commander pirouetted and send the retrieved spear onwards- sending it hurting towards the retreating mare.

A deafening shriek made the crowd shiver, an ethereal pony stumbling as an enchanted spear buried itself in her side. Ripping it out, she hissed as mist poured from the wound, glaring at the Commander in the distance.

“This isn’t over…” she growled, retreating down a side-road with forty or so of her group.

Shifting felt a blow glance off his armor, the Knight ducking another magical bolt. With this many assailants being on the offensive wasn’t possible, not anymore. With the element of surprise gone, they now had surrounded him- lashing out at the smallest opening.

Defend. I can do that! Defend…

He tripped over a body; one of more than a dozen that arrayed the battlefield. Blood soaked his hooves, causing the Commander to nearly stumble again as he parried a blade with his own.

Too many!

Shifting’s eyes widened as a pony at the rear of the group threw a spear- this one completely black and glowing with magic.

That’s not aimed at me!

His attempt to grip the object with magic was sloughed off by the repelling metal and spells around the weapon, Shifting’s hooves then moving on their own. The spear’s path was clear; aimed directly at the exposed neck of Twilight; the Alicorn looking the opposite direction.

‘Save her, Shifting!’

Luna’s voice echoed in the Commander’s mind as he jumped- bringing a hoof to bear to smack the spear aside. He missed- the weapon instead slammed into Shifting’s armor, the point burying itself into the Knight’s side. Pain shot through his frame, Shifting landing with a thud next to Twilight’s shield. Horrified eyes met his, the Princess’s lip quivering slightly.

With a grunt, Shifting levered himself up, feeling his heartbeat spasm slightly.

Poison? No, it was just in-between my ribs, maybe a mortal blow?

“Hey, we got him! GO!” a voice sounded, another two-dozen ponies now charging.

Shifting’s vision began to blur, and the stallion shook his head.

I only hope you can pull me back, Luna. Forgive me.

“Sit obumbratio succedant ubi defecit. Laudare noctem!” Shifting bellowed, his eyes glowing a sinister red as dark tendrils of magic surged from his frame. The spell cloaked the pony in shadow, two maroon eyes glaring at the assailants as the creature in front of them doubled in height.

As spears of dark magic lashed out like extra limbs, ripping into the terrified group, Twilight’s lips moved slightly as she whispered the spell to herself, unable to tear her eyes away. The creature that was once Shifting dove into the nearest gathering of ponies, limbs composed of dark magic puncturing hide and armor, knife-like appendages slitting throats and breaking limbs with ease.

“May the shadows succeed where I failed. Praise the night…”

The Emissary led her forty-odd ponies through a deserted side street, her wound throbbing from the enchanted weapon’s impact.

Failure. They will not be happy, but what more could we have done? On to the next stage then. Losing a battle is not the war! But with the loss of our warehouses, the next stage will be sorely hindered. At least it has begun in one aspect, even if at reduced effectiveness. Wait….

The night’s sky was abruptly blotted out by a light emanating from Canterlot Castle; causing the ponies at her side to shiver. The temperature abruptly skyrocketed; golden magic diving down to line the street they were on. Windows were forced closed, and powerful shields encased the group in a rectangular funnel, protecting the oblivious inhabitants on either side of the street.

“What is-?”

A *CRACK* sounded across the night, the sound barrier shattered as a glowing orb impacted the street in front of the group, cobblestones melting into molten slag. Eyes slit and ablaze with rage, the alicorn in front of them glared at the assailants with a merciless gaze. Orange and yellow armor covered an alabaster frame, as though forged from a solar flare itself. The metal greaves, breastplate, helmet, and wing-blades poured forth fire as Celestia took a few steps forward, her mane an inferno. The tranquilizers in her system had since been burned away as she opened her connection to the sun, the raging Princess staring down the group of assailants. A bold pony lunged forward with an enchanted spear- but could only let out a choked-scream as the weapon and his body melted to ash before it even got close to the alicorn.

Three ponies yanked out familiar red crystals; the powerful spells activating with a high-pitched whine.

“There! Now get her!” a pony called; but the bravado was shattered by the sinister laugh that left the Alicorn’s mouth.

“You all have forgotten, haven’t you?” Celestia asked, striding forward to confront the still-stalwart Emissary.

Levitating the three active gems close, Celestia examined each, the only sign of discomfort a slight wince. Melting under her gaze, the gems shrieked as their magic was released, the artifacts joining the molten sludge underneath Celestia’s hooves.

“Did you think you were the first to try such tricks on me? Or the second? Or the hundredth?” Celestia growled, levitating the Emissary into the air. “Your masters have forgotten why they don’t set a hoof in Equestria, haven’t they? Then pass along this reminder!”

The mare let out a shriek, fire beginning to burn away her frame, hooves being eaten away by the inferno that ignited underneath them. A slight strained laugh left her however, the defiant mare then glaring at Celestia.

“We’ll be back! You can’t kill me, or my masters!” she hissed, eyes widening in horror as Celestia’s gaze bore into her own, no mercy behind the black and fiery gaze.

“Perhaps, but I can burn your form, your masters, their home, everything! I can burn it over and over and over again until they get the point!” Celestia hissed, fire continuing to eat away at the Emissary’s limbs.

“Tell this to your masters! They can send their assassins, their armies, their legions, against me! I will withstand them all; but you will stay away from my sister, from Shifting, from Twilight and her friends. You will not touch them!”

The ethereal mare let out a final pained shriek of agony, fire burning away her frame into mist, magic escaping her broken body with a thunderous *SNAP!* As Celestia’s gaze then turned to the forty ponies frozen in place, the temperature began to rise once again.

“Y-you wouldn’t kill us! We’re your subjects! Y-you’re merciful…” the nearest pony stuttered, the hateful gaze of the Solar Princess now locking with his.

“Mercy? You tried to kill Twilight,” Celestia whispered, her horn igniting as a solar flare surged from her body, swirling around her flame like a living animal. The directed inferno then charged, blasting through the shielded street as the stars above were blotted out for a moment. Funneled like water through a canal, the inferno burned away flesh, metal and bone, leaving not even a speck of ash on the glowing glass that had once been cobblestones.

Three ponies still stood however, legs quivering as a golden shield surrounded their frames. Fire still wreathing her body, Celestia stood over the terrified ponies, letting out a snort that sent flames scorching across the barrier.

“You,” she growled, removing the protective shield. “You three will go to the badlands, every tavern, every black market, and deliver this message. I want every hired blade to know what happened here. I will find the ones who trained you in time, rest assured. But I want everycreature in every slimy hole to know what I will do if I find them assisting these Windigos. Do I make myself clear?”

The three nodded, staring at Celestia as she encased them in a teleportation matrix, sending them hurtling towards the southern border. Taking a deep breath, the ruler let the flames bleed from her frame, her magic removing the ash and reforming the warped streets, cobblestones taking place of a pure-glass road.

The golden shields were then removed; any curious inhabitants that then looked outside would simply see their ruler calmly trotting down the streets towards the train station, the only remnant of the encounter having been a strange hum outside of their homes.

Luna’s sides heaved, her sword dripping with blood as she surveyed the surviving ponies. No more than five remained; herself and the Lunar Knights sparing no quarter as the misty-eyed group had attacked with reckless abandon. They knew there was nothing to lose- and they had been correct.

“Princess!” Silty Stone called out, the capable Thestral’s armor stained with blood, walking with a slight limp.

“We have an issue at the train station. It’s the Commander…”

Luna galloped towards the platform; and her eyes widened in horror. Twilight’s shield was no longer active, but the Alicorn was encased in a familiar rotating circle of tan shields. Standing next to her, and in front of dozens of mutilated bodies, the shadowy figure of Shifting stood, red eyes looking over the gory scene.

“Oh no,” Luna whispered, sliding the bodies aside with her magic. Standing in front of Shifting, Luna peered into the eyes curiously, trying to keep her rising emotions in check.

“What’s wrong with him?” Silty asked.

“He used one of the last resort spells,” Luna explained, seeing Twilight’s limbs shiver slightly, the mare beginning to go into shock. “Lunar Knights are only taught to use these spells if all other means have failed. This spell specifically can prevent a mortal wound from taking hold, and utilizes negative emotion to power through any obstacle. Shifting has a thousand years of such things; so I am not surprised this was the result.”

Luna then paused, and her ears flattened. “However, there is no guarantee that the pony afflicted will be broken from the spell. They may fade away into nothingness, if they cannot be snapped out of the trance. That is why this spell is rarely used.”

“Protect Princess Twilight,” the shadowy figure rumbled, the shield spell around Twilight glowing briefly.

“And you did, my noble Knight,” Luna remarked; and her heart lifted on seeing the red eyes focus on her, if for but a moment.

“The battle is over, at least for now, Commander. Return to us. That is an order from the Princess of the Night.”

“We cannot.”

Luna blinked, staring at the pony in surprise. “Why not?”

“We are wounded, perhaps mortally so,” Shifting rumbled, prompting Luna’s breath to catch in her throat.

“I will not let you die.”

“You cannot promise that.”

“Yet I will!” Luna shouted, taking a few deep breaths. Reaching a hoof over, she rested it against the shadow-pony’s cheek, dropping her voice to barely a whisper. “Shifting, please, come back to me. If you must leave this world, don’t go like this.”

Spreading from where her hoof touched, solid fur and armor began to return, the shadow-flesh fleeing.

“Perhaps…” Shifting mused, the shadows continuing to bleed from his frame until the battered Knight was standing in front of the Princess. The wound on his side now dripped with blood, the head of the spear still lodged halfway into his armor.

Luna caught Shifting as he teetered on his hooves, the tan shields around Twilight vanishing. The final words whispered from Shifting’s mouth had Luna’s eyes widen, the Alicorn gently placing Shifting against the concrete.

“What did he say?” Silty muttered, Shifting’s horn glowing briefly.

“Is…he still breathing?” Twilight whispered, Luna standing over Shifting’s prone form.

“He has activated the spell- but lacks the clarity to see it through. Stand back!” Luna whispered, voice then rising to a sharp command, her horn igniting. A pool of moonlight centered around Shifting, the cobblestones cracking underneath Luna’s hooves. The light on Shifting grew, increasing to an intensity that was painful to look at.

“Cor meum audit et lunae tuam: et dedit eam!” Luna whispered, magic swirling around her frame as the alicorn spread her wings, floating off the ground slightly. Energy poured into Shifting’s body; white fingers of energy diving into the wound and making the spearhead fly out with a fair amount of force. The stallion’s armor groaned under the strain; its own magic being drained by the spell.

And then it was completed, Shifting lying on the concrete as his sides rose and fell evenly.

“You’re not leaving us yet, Shifting,” Luna whispered, reaching down to nuzzle her coltfriend’s head with her own, swiping a few tears from her eyes.

“What is that spell?” Twilight asked, limbs still shivering as she sought to ignore the gory scene around them.

“The Heart of the Moon, an ancient and powerful spell I’ve only seen performed a few times. It is yet another one of the many last-resort incantations my ancient Knights knew,” Luna relayed, calmly continuing to clear away the bodies, at least off to the side so they were out of Twilight’s immediate sight. She then returned to gently rest a hoof against Shifting’s shoulder.

“It uses the owner’s own life-force to heal wounds. A young pony could survive a mortal wound- but would be twice-again aged. I’ve never helped cast it on somepony else however, not in this manner.”

Twilight’s ears flattened, looking to Shifting briefly. “So now…he’ll die earlier?”

To their surprise, Shifting chuckled, wincing as he slowly stood up. “Oh, come now, you’re a smart one, Princess. What is infinity minus fifty?” he grunted, letting out a hiss as Luna wrapped him up in a hug.

“Hey there Luna. Breathing!” he gasped.

“Sorry! We…I’m just glad you’re back with us,” Luna admitted, then looking over to see Twilight’s stunned expression.

“Wait. So…”

Shifting removed his battered armor, looking at his side, where no evidence of the wound was visible. “I’m ageless, Twilight, faux-ascended if it were. I just lost twenty years of my never-ending life. Again, you can subtract as much as you want from infinity. That said….” the stallion winced, taking a deep breath as the various other wounds across his body began to ache. “That was a one-time use, from what I’ve understood. I’ve never had to use that spell, but looked into it aplenty. If I’m right, Luna- there will be incredible resistance if I or you try to cast it again. Give that a shot.”

Luna’s horn lit up- the beginnings of the spell waving over to Shifting, and promptly rebounding to explode like a firework above their head.

“Thought so. But, I’m just happy it worked,” Shifting staggered forward to rest his forehead against Luna’s an exhausted but happy smile on his features. “And I’m glad you brought me back.”

“Twilight!” a different voice called, a familiar alabaster figure trotting closer. The younger Alicorn was promptly wrapped up in a hug, Celestia holding Twilight close as she began to sob. “Shhh. Let’s get you out of here…”

Nodding to her sister, Luna’s eyes softened at seeing Celestia smile slightly, teleporting Twilight and herself to the distant Ponyville castle.

Still leaning against Luna, Shifting let out a breath at seeing the blood-soaked battleground in front of them.

“Not exactly the best date location by far,” Shifting mused, then weakly waving to Silty Sone. “You all, you performed fantastically,” he remarked, nodding slowly. “I’ll expect a full report in the next few days, after I stop seeing double.”

“I’ll make sure me and my twin have matching reports, Sir. Get well,” Silty replied, then trotting off as Celestia’s Legionaries came upon the scene, taking over the clean-up.

“Let’s get you to the doctors, Shifting,” Luna whispered, starting to power up a spell. “And you are sure there are no side-effects from that healing spell? I don’t…..”

“Luna,” Shifting whispered, reaching up to give her a tender kiss on the lips. “When I said I researched it, I meant that I understood how that spell works in every way, shape, and form. I’m not going anywhere, now, or in a thousand years. Of that I promise you. The only thing that spell did was heal my wound; and I think your infusion of magic erased the already-remote possibility of a toll on my age.”

The stallion leaned on her shoulder, the larger alicorn wrapping a wing around her coltfriend protectively. “So, thank you, Luna.”

“Don’t you dare thank me, not after all you’ve done.”

“…then…you’re welcome?”

Luna let out a snort, a slight smile twitching at her mouth as the pair vanished from the train platform. The guards continued to work, only a few ponies noticing the gory details as the remnants of the battle were scrubbed away before the majority of the city could get a close look.

Author's Note

WELL DANG! GO SHIFTING GO!

The Windigos make their big push; and we get to see our Knight in action! Quite a price to pay though, looks like that paw came in handy after all!
....I will not apologize for that pun.
The idea for the tidbit about Twilight's horror concerning the paw was from Lore Horse btw!

And ooooh boy. They went after Twilight. Celestia at full power....
Stay tuned for the final chapter, and the kickoff of the sequel (Will be released the same day.)

As always, feedback is appreciated!

Chapter Thirteen: Cold Winds/To Be Continued...

“I blame you, of course,” Luna grumbled, levitating a parchment over to Shifting who was relaxing at her side. The pair were sitting in a small side-area, offset from the throne room. It was a nice place to take a break between nightly petitioners and read the usual updates and reports, and close enough to the kitchens to snag a bite to eat every now and again.

“Hmm?”

“Ever since your ‘infinity minus fifty’ thing, Twilight has been delving into how much power a Satyr’s paw, or other possible ageless artifacts, actually have. Apparently, she is bombarding my sister with notes; for which I am grateful though. Celie needs more ponies to talk to, Twilight included.”

“…I wash my hooves of any of that business. Not my fault she’s an egghead supreme.”

“Says the purveyor of fruit and vegetable poems, and all historical knowledge associated with them,” Luna shot back with a grin.

“Hey. She’s egghead Supreme. I’m Emperor egghead, in that respect. To be fair, I stumbled upon those facts mostly by accident, mainly because I knew the ponies!”

“I still blame you for ruining some of my favorite lyrics.”

Shifting chuckled, levitating a parchment over to Luna with a grin. “I maintain my innocence. Oh, could you sign this please? I mentioned it the other day, and finally got the paperwork in order. As the first squad of the Lunar Knights is formally established, I thought you should have the final say. Silty Stone has more than proven herself as a leader, I think.”

Luna let out a hum, signing the document before retrieving another report. “Of course, I look forward to seeing how she handles things. I trust your judgement, naturally, and from the brief interactions I’ve had, she seems perfect,” a frown then slid onto the Princess’s face.

“Luna?”

“The outbreak is spreading; and the strange cure we’ve been receiving actually worked on eliminating the illness from tests subjects,” she read off of another report, hoof tapping her chin in thought.

The Commander now also frowned, leaning over to examine the report. “Then this illness is what the First Wisher warned us about, then. We only are getting the cure in a hundred doses at a time, correct?”

“Aye. Not nearly enough to prevent the spread; but they’re being used on healthcare workers first as of a few days ago. The illness isn’t deadly though, so I cannot see how this is from the Windigos, yet it makes most sense at the same time. So far it’s just a few thousand infected with a common cold.”

Reading another report, Shifting nodded in agreement. “It doesn’t fit the Windigo’s profile. So far, as you said, it has just been a bad case of the flu and the cold. They want death, hatred, all of that. This thing- perhaps the Wisher was correct in saying it was some sort of different group. He did say Windigo’s weren’t the only threat…”

“Well, at least we have the cure; it seems to both destroy the ailment and prevent infection, at least as we’ve discovered these past two weeks.”

“Speaking of, how is Twilight doing? Two weeks is hardly time to recover,” Shifting tentatively asked, and Luna let out a gentle smile in return.

“She is coping. It is a horrible shock to her, but being able to pin all of this on an enemy helps her, I think. It answers the ‘why’ ponies would do such horrible things. She is still innocent in many ways of the world; and I hope she carries that with her for many, many years.”

Letting out sad sigh, the Lunar Knight nodded, Twilight’s horrified gaze still burned into his memory. “And I hope she does just that.”

“I think she will, Shifting. Better she learns now than later during our retirement. Along that vein, have the prisoners given us any new information?”

“Actually….” Shifting mused, retrieving a rather lengthy report. “They have, rather eagerly I might add when we threatened to drop them in the middle of a Northern blizzard. That misty-eyed spell we’ve been seeing? It’s unfortunately not mind control; they were completely in control of their actions. It’s some sort of spell-booster. Apparently, it lets this ‘Emissary’ communicate with the ones afflicted if needs be, and also directly with her masters. It also generally heightens one’s senses and abilities, but not to an extraordinary level,” Shifting read off, then frowning at a sub-note.

“Unfortunately, the visible mist in one’s eyes was the result of a hasty casting. It’s suspected such cues are no longer visible on the enemy’s agents. Speaking of, the info we have on the ‘Emissary’ is fairly light. She’s some sort of ethereal being who reports directly to, we guessed it, the Windigos. Only one or two sightings thus far; but nothing concrete. Where they are and why they are here…we still don’t know. The only information on that front is they are willing to pay handsomely to any creature willing to spread hate, or undermine national unity. Also, we’ve managed to avoid mentioning Windigos to the public, thankfully. Thus far, it’s just a radicalized cult. That, coupled with the Changeling’s help to quell rumors and excessive panic, has been holding the public emotion steady.”

Luna nodded slowly, the gears in her mind churning through the report. “I’d say that’s a good start, Shifting. That is disturbing that so many ponies were willing to act with deadly intent however. A full-blown mind control spell would have been more palatable, in a way.”

“I agree. But considering how many creatures in the world there are, there is always a group willing to put profit or powerful alliances ahead of morals. Equestria has been the exception rather than the rule, I think.”

“Not without attempts of course. It got lost in the shuffle, but I found this interesting,” Luna remarked, levitating a report over to her Commander.

“This was a year ago. Apparently, our enemy tried the same thing in the Royal Guard and the Legionnaires as in the Night Guard.”

“And why didn’t we learn about this sooner?” Shifting muttered, reading the report. His eyes then widened as the stallion blinked.

“…oh.”

“’Oh’ indeed. The individuals were easily rooted out, and in the case of the legionnaires…aggressively eliminated. That organization has ponies of whose families have served my sister for generations. To try and infiltrate that, rather than the Night Guard, was bound to fail.” Luna mused.

“We never put the attempts together, because it seemed to be a simple mutiny based on a loose group of fanatics, rather than a cohesive effort. Now however….”

“That was their trial run; to see if it could work, and how to modify their plans in the already-in-motion infiltration of the Night Guard,” Shifting finished.

“Exactly. My Night Guard was easy to infiltrate; being largely of Thestrals we trusted with little question, and being a newly reinstated organization. The Legionnaires especially is a generational and fiercely loyal bunch.”

Shifting let out a sigh, leaning against Luna’s shoulder. “This is outside my area of expertise, Luna. I’m good with singular threats, but this? This is almost like being a general to an army. The Lunar Knights is different; shock troops, but this is slowly moving towards all-out war.”

“It would seem that way, but I doubt the Windigos have enough bodies for that. A few thousand perhaps, hired help and such, but no. Their methods must be different; yet this pathogen that is spreading doesn’t seem to be their doing,” Luna mused.

After a few moments of thought, Shifting nodded in agreement, but continued to frown.

“I think it is from them; but that goes against all logic. There have been very few deaths; only minor inconveniences thus far. It doesn’t match up against their methods and motives. But that’s my hunch.”

“Well, I’ll certainly take your hunch into account, Shifting. Until we have concrete evidence however, we just have to move forward.”

Blowing out a noisy breath, Shifting stood, stretching with a slight wince. “I agree, of course. This is just out of my element, and more in your area. Widespread planning and so forth. At least that nasty bug hasn’t reached Canterlot yet.”

A loud yawn caught both of their attention, a familiar alabaster alicorn wandering into the room sleepily. “…This is not the kitchen,” Celestia grumbled, prompting two heads to tilt in confusion.

“Sister? I thought you were in bed,” Luna asked, prompting another loud yawn.

“Couldn’t sleep, more common. Hmm. Just wanted some different herbal teas…” The still-drowsy ruler mused, and Shifting was struck by how normal Celestia looked. Mane still tousled in disarray and lacking her usual regalia; she looked like any other pony having trouble getting a good night’s sleep.

A bit of knowledge I suppose few understand. They are just like everypony, everycreature else, just lacking in age. But then again, I have a unique perspective on that…

“Do you want my help, Celie? I know you haven’t been sleeping well,” Luna asked, but a shake of a head was Celestia’s response.

“I’ll manage, but thank you Lulu,” Celestia replied. Her entire frame then contorted in a massive sneeze, the Alicorn wincing slightly in pain.

“Something must be in bloom.”

“Sister, you told me that you haven’t had allergies in a few hundred years.”

As the slowly-waking Alicorn looked over to her Sister and Shifting, the latter casually opened a storage portal, the unicorn donning a gas mask as he took a step back from Celestia. A magical touch urged Luna to keep her distance, the Commander of the Lunar Knights letting out a sad sigh.

“Princess Celestia, I think you should report to the infirmary.”

“Why? It’s just a…cold…” Celestia huffed, words then fading as the realization hit her. “Oh dear, you don’t think…?”

Luna’s horn lit up as protective spells surrounded her, the alicorn looking to her older sister sadly. “Let’s get you checked out, Sister.”

Shifting sent a private message to his Knights to get their protective gear ready; the stallion taking a deep breath of filtered air as he accompanied the two alicorns down the hallway. He had a feeling that things were about to get very, very interesting.

To Be Continued in Sunspots

Author's Note

(A thank you to Geminii for reminding me of some details to include in this chapter!)

And thus concludes this specific chapter of Luna and Shifting's journey! But with every end comes another beginning, and this new tale follows a different Princess. Rest assured, Luna and Shifting aren't going anywhere however! There's plenty more poetry to spoil!

Thank you all for reading, as well as the feedback! I hope to see you all in the continuing story! (Out Now!)

Continue the story in the Sequel: Sunspots

Chapter Eleven: Lunar Dances and Moonlit Knights

“That’s all we’ve got? Some mysterious packages containing purple liquid, Windigos, and the knowledge our enemy is planning something?” Tempered Steel asked, frowning as Shifting nodded.

“So far at least. It certainly doesn’t make my job any easier too. All those escaped prisoners just vanished. That’s at least a hundred ponies that may have joined their cause, maybe more. They’re bound to make some sort of move. Perhaps this lag time is to train the new recruits?” the Lunar Knight Commander sighed.

The leader of the Celestial Legionnaires let out a huff, setting aside the few sheets of paper with a grunt. “Now that’s a disturbing thought indeed, but at least it gives us more time to prepare. I’ll pass this along to the head of the Royal Guard. I don’t really know what else we can do, other than be on the alert. My units are stretched thin as it is, having been covering both day and night incidents,” the light orange earth pony then grinned, gesturing to Shifting. “It’ll be a load off my back once you have the Knights up and running again. We’ve worked far too long without them watching our backs. I had my suspicions about you at first, Commander- but safe to say, you’ve blown every expectation out of the water, both in the Centurions, and in the royal guard.”

Shifting smiled back, nodding in reply. “Just doing my job- same thing I’ve been doing for a thousand years. Well, sort of.”

A genuine laugh left Tempered’s muzzle, the pony waving a hoof at Shifting. “Yet another reason we are happy to have the help; you’ve got a bit more experience than most. I imagine you’ve got somewhere to be though? Thank you for the update however; let me know how the screening process goes.”

Throwing a respectful salute to his daytime companion, Shifting nodded as he trotted out of the secluded offices, the guard ponies on station stiffening as he passed.

The screening process…the recruits should already be there.

As the Commander traveled to the training grounds, the unicorn let his mind wander slightly. The past week…no, it had been two; the time flying by. The days had blurred together, very little time being allotted for freedom outside of training and restructuring the Lunar Knights. Shifting had been trying his hardest to get the recruits up to speed- because they needed a fighting force to supplement the other guards. Thankfully, they were about up to par in terms of combat now, and were preparing for their final exam.

At least I got a few dates in!

The second, third, and forth dates with Luna had been brief but no less enjoyable than the first. To the warrior’s surprise, Luna seemed most relaxed when simply reading and discussing ancient art or poetry; something Shifting had quickly prepared for.

That look on her face when I told her that the poem was about a pear and not a lover; I knew the guy! He loved pears…so maybe was both?

They had only been able to spare an hour or two for such dates, but the subtle feeling of being relaxed with the other continued to grow.

That’s how it should be though, right? Just not worried about putting on a façade or the like. I’m just glad we could keep things up, even in a crisis!

And then there’s the dance in a few days, I wonder if the package-

“Hello my aged unicorn! How goes it?” a drawling voice asked, a familiar Draconequus floating in front of Shifting.

“It goes well, other than paperwork. Lots of paperwork. If not for how important it was, I wouldn’t mind some of your chocolate rainclouds to wash it away,” Shifting grumbled. “Nice to meet you officially by the way, Discord. I expected you to pop in much sooner. We did meet earlier though; about a thousand years ago?”

The Lord of Chaos’ cheery demeanor deflated ever so slightly, Shifting then waving a hoof. “Having my hooves turned into shrimp was hardly traumatizing. And yet the smell…anyhow, I assume such things are in the past?”

Discord nodded, examining his claws briefly with a huff. “Oh yes. You know, being reformed and all. But I still enjoy my fun; I have been watching you for a time, and simply wanted to finally say hello; Officially of course. Congratulations on your new station and courting the moon by the way. From what I hear, you’ve got a bit of an icy problem to defrost.”

Shifting chuckled, the sound seeming to put Discord a bit more at ease (if such a thing were possible.) “Well, thank you. And it’s nice to meet you outside of the previous encounter,” Shifting replied, continuing to trot onwards as Discord floated alongside him.

“I don’t suppose you can help us with this Windigo problem? It threatens everypony in Equestria, including those in Ponyville. If I recall from the reports, you are rather fond of your friend…s.”

Shifting had read up considerably on Discord; and while the chaotic creature appeared reformed, he still was, well, him. At least the malicious nature seemed to be a thing of the past, especially since a certain yellow Pegasus occupied a portion of his time.

Discord let out a huff, a bit of magical energy spinning around his claws like a snake.

“Oh, har har. Yes, I fully well know this issue threatens Fluttershy, how very subtle of you by the way, but my claws are tied.”

“How so? Last I checked you’re one of the most powerful creatures in Equestria, or the world for that matter.”

“Are you trying to butter me up with flattery?”

“Not flattery if it’s true.”

Discord let out a genuine chuckle, fanning himself with a set of claws. “Oh, Luna picked well. You’re a fun one- but I actually can’t help, not in the way you’d like. If I did, things may be better, or more likely, much worse.”

“How so?”

Discord waved; countless glowing jellybeans now floating in front of Shifting. “Let me try to explain in…non-chaotic terms, as much as I dislike it. Each one of these beans is an event. A single choice affects other events, yes?” he flicked a bean, causing a strand of energy to dart to a dozen more. “Each choice leads to more choices and events, and so on and so forth. Chaos magic loves to mess with that. So, let us say I was to help you against these ghostly creatures, or remove them outright…”

Discord touched a large blue bean; and it promptly withered into a dried husk, the effect spreading among others even as hundreds of beans glowed with strands of energy.

“It may do more harm than good, drastically so. Perhaps it would let a greater threat appear? Maybe it would be a happy-ever-after but incur great cost in a decade? Or maybe it would be all fine and dandy. Chaos being what it is, such help would set off events even I cannot see. And then there’s the whole should I intervene, the same reason Celestia doesn’t. Some of us cannot afford such a limited perspective.”

Shifting blinked, his mind trying to wrap around exactly what Discord was saying. “…So if you helped, you very well might make things worse, and that’s outside the whole ‘being super powerful and meddling with mortals,’ bit? Playing the long-term game, whatever that is?”

Discord banished the bean illusion with a wave of his claws, clapping excitedly. “Oh, you’re quick! That’s nice, I hate it when the mind of a pony breaks and everything I say just flows in one ear and out the other,” sand promptly began to pour from one of Discord’s ears for a time, the draconequus then letting out a snort.

“But in short, yes. Some events I can intervene in; such as to protect my friends and a direct and immediate incident. But a global situation, with so many more outcomes and such? I steer clear of those. There’s chaos, and then there’s just orderly chaos; yuck.”

“Like…a war?”

Discord stared at the pony for a moment, then letting out a rather impressed hum. “Oh, I have underestimated you by far, timeless Commander,” he mused. “That would be correct. Perhaps you, I, and Luna can discuss the effects of cosmic theory sometime? I do have to be off though, and I believe you have a deadly classroom to run.”

Shifting waved to the chaotic creature, levitating a pocket watch out with a nod. “Indeed. Take care Discord, and I’ll ask Luna about that.”

“Ta ta!”

Watching the draconequus literally zoom away on some rather gaudy purple roller-skates, Shifting took a few deep breaths as he resumed his trot towards the training grounds.

“You’re an interesting one, Discord. But at least I don’t have-”

A soft *squish* caught Shifting’s attention, and the pony’s left eye twitched slightly.

“DISCORD! NO. SHRIMPS!”

A cackle was heard in the distance, the seafood-slippers vanishing as the Commander trotted onwards.

Stupid shrimps.

Luna could barely contain the anticipation as a box was teleported into her study, the final package from Shifting having arrived. Her question as to why it took so long was answered by a note taped to the outside.

‘I asked them to delay this for a time- hopefully it’s not too late.’

Opening the box, Luna’s brow furrowed on seeing a simple question neatly written on a piece of parchment.

‘Would you accompany me to the upcoming dance event? (If nothing else, for a few songs at the very least.) Just write your answer and tap the box twice; it will teleport back to me.

Your ever-loyal Knight,

-Shifting

Luna quickly retrieved a quill, scrawling her eager reply and tapping the box. As it vanished, the alicorn let out a soft squeal, then composing herself as she got ready for the night court.

‘I’d love to, Shifting.’

The words igniting a warm glow in Shifting’s chest, the stallion then put the small box away, glaring at the thirty or so recruits in front of him, the item having teleported to the Commander moments ago mid-lecture.

“What? Never seen a stallion get a message from his date?” he barked, grinning at the immediate reply.

“SIR, YES SIR.”

“Better. Now then, the reason I have called you all here,” Shifting began, pacing back and forth. Armor weaved itself onto his frame until the Commander was fully clad in his Lunar Knight regalia.

“You all have almost completed your basic guard training, and have only the final test to complete I don’t anticipate any of you failing that. However, our enemy will not wait for you to finish that test, nor gain experience to rise in the ranks. As you may have heard, Princess Luna has elected me to be the new Commander of the Lunar Knights. As such, I would like to look for volunteers for this organization. You would take your final test and immediately begin training further.”

Shifting paused, waiting until the excited murmurs died down, then resuming his back and forth pacing, expression becoming more somber. “Now then. Before anypony volunteers, I must make one thing very clear,” the Commander began, steely gaze drifting from each recruit to the next.

“The Lunar Knights are an organization far above the requirements of the Night Guards. You must be held to those standards at all times. Those include greater physical fitness, psychological stress, and the willingness to use lethal force on a possibly regular basis. While the Night Guards may have to use lethal force, it is strictly as a last resort. The Lunar Knights stand ready to handle the threats the Guard cannot; and that will require you to kill. If you cannot do that, for whatever reason, you put yourself and your squad at risk,” he saw a few ponies averting their gaze at his words, clearly uncomfortable at the last bit.

“This position is not for everypony. Some may feel disgraced if they don’t volunteer. I would argue, and expect, the opposite however. If you know your limits, and do not put your fellow Knights at risk by not applying, I would say that is what an honorable guard would do. There is no shame in not applying; I would argue that it is dishonorable in applying with the knowledge you will have trouble fulfilling the requirements, even after training. For those wishing to volunteer, there is a simple training exercise to gauge a few things that will take place momentarily. Please meet me at the combat training area in ten minutes, for those who wish to apply today. I’ll see about late entrants this coming week, but thought to inform you of this immediate process. Everypony is dismissed.”

As the recruits began to move, Shifting then made them all pause with a final announcement.

“Remember. Only apply if you feel able and willing to do so. If you enter into this training with the idea that peer pressure or the ability to fake it will suffice and push you through, you will fail, and I will make it a point to weed out those who put the entire organization at risk.”

More than a few ears were laid flat as the thestrals dispersed, leaving Shifting to make his way towards the training area.

Harsh, but if they cannot kill…that will lead to nothing but failure. Training ponies to be predators is no easy task. It took me long enough.

As Shifting waited, a warm glow ignited in his chest as a familiar group of thestrals made their way to the training grounds. Leading the dozen or so ponies was Silty Stone, the thestral grinning at Shifting.

“Ready to apply for the Lunar Knights, Commander Sands!” she barked, the unicorn then gesturing towards an empty arena, a few strange blue oblong crystals set along the perimeter of the ropes.

“Very well. Now then, everypony here! This test is one of many preliminary scenarios. These are designed to see how you perform under stress, and make snap-decisions. There will be no redoes for this session, but you can re-apply to the Lunar Knights in one year’s time,” Shifting declared, looking over the dozen thestrals.

“Again, these tests will push you in every aspect of life. This is your only and final warning; the scenarios will be trying, difficult, and fairly disturbing at times. These mimic the dark side of society that you will be called upon to deal with, which the normal guard cannot, or is unwilling to confront. The blows you feel during these tests will be real, but fall short of severe injury of course. If at any time you wish to withdraw, simply say so, and that will be that. There is a reason this process takes place after a training session- to push you to your limits. Do you still wish to proceed, Recruit Silty Stone?”

“Sir, Yes Sir!”

“Then take your place in the arena!”

The thestral trotted into the square area, accepting the long dagger Shifting tossed her way.

Alright Silty, lets see what you are made of!

Activating the training crystals, Shifting let his magic flow through them, the modified training simulations weaving life-like figures into place.

“Recruit Stone! You are patrolling a section of the city, and are temporarily separated from your partner. You hear screams. BEGIN!” he bellowed, two ponies appearing with a flash behind Silty.

“He’s going to kill me!” the magical entity cried, tears streaming from the eyes of a near-perfect energy mannequin, the mare clutching a wide-eyed filly to her chest.

Turning around Silty confronted the assailant; the unicorn stallion giggling like mad, a hoof-strapped dagger in his grasp.

“I just want to talk! Nothing serious, it never is!” the entity remarked in a sing-song tone, eyes then locking onto Silty as he continued to laugh.

“Sir, drop the dagger!” Silty growled, readying her own weapon. “DROP IT!”

“LET’S TALK!” the stallion cackled in reply.

Lunging forward, the entity slashed at Silty with the dagger, crazed eyes wide with a mad sort of energy. The mare dodged the strike, delivering a punch to the pony’s chest- and was then sent reeling as the stallion smacked her armored head with his, letting out another giggle.

“Oh boy! You’re fun! You’ll be fun to talk to!” he called, dancing around Silty to glare at the mare, demeanor abruptly changing as he growled.

“Now maybe we can talk? Just a bit? It won’t be long, I promise!” he hissed, about to lunge forward with the weapon before being tackled by Silty. The stallion shook her off, then made a lunge towards the shrieking mare-and then hit the ground as dead weight. Silty yanked the dagger free, the weapon having been buried up to the hilt in the pony’s skull. The mare then kicked the body aside, scanning for more threats.

“Scenario complete,” Shifting remarked, the magical entities vanishing as Silty’s chest heaved.

Interesting. This mare is no stranger to this sort of situation; no hesitation. I wonder…

“Private Stone. Justify your actions,” The Commander instructed, waiting as the mare caught her breath.

“I used verbal commands to try and get the pony to drop the weapon. He was clearly unreasonable and sought to attack the civilians,” Silty replied. “I attempted to restrain him with non-lethal measures, but his final actions did not allow such methods without putting myself or the civilians at risk. Lethal force was therefore used.”

Shifting nodded in approval, gesturing to the arena as he looked at the recruits. “That is the escalation of force in real-time, quite a bit faster than training scenarios, hmm? This is a nearly identical scenario I encountered fifty years ago, by the way. Recruit Stone handled it in a similar manner I did. Had she continued to use non-lethal methods, she would have sustained injury, and the civilians would have as well. If you hesitate to use lethal force, you may put yourself and others at risk. However, use it too early, and you may have very well killed a pony unnecessarily. Every death is one you must live with,” he stated, offering a hoof to Silty, who promptly shook it.

“You have passed the first qualifying test. You are dismissed for the day, Recruit Silty Stone; or you can stay and watch if you prefer.”

As the other ponies ran the tests, each refused to go their way; instead wanting to watch and see how their fellow thestrals did. The second test was another pass; the stallion managing to use non-lethal force appropriately.

The third test however, had Shifting’s ears flatten ever so slightly. On confronting two stallions with swords, the male thestral clearly was unsettled. As the ponies continued to taunt the guard, explaining in all manners of how they’d butcher him, skin the thestral alive, and break each bone one at a time, the thestral dropped his own weapon, head shaking vigorously.

“I withdraw!”

The training images vanished, Shifting simply nodding to the recruit. “Scenario completed. Next!” he called out, acting as though all was normal for the thestral that trotted away, not wanting to bring undue attention to the pony.

No shame in that; better now than later.

“Enemies will use every means to gain the upper hoof, claw, or paw. If they can shake your concentration and will by words alone, they will do so! Do not let them! That said, not everypony can shut it out. Even with centuries of training, I have trouble at times ignoring the sadistic words of some creatures. Now then, let us continue!”

Within an hour, eight ponies stood with Silty; the others having withdrawn or failed to use the appropriate level of force. Shifting nodded to the group, a confident glow in his chest.

“Well done, all of you,” he began. “You have passed the first of many tests; but this was the most telling. Beginning tomorrow, before the dance, you will enter into a few more. You are eligible to take your Night Guard examination early; so if you pass that, and the other qualifying Lunar Knight tests, you’ll begin your training within a few days. Such tests will be reoccurring throughout the training process however, so stay on your hooves. Dismissed!”

As the nine ponies saluted and walked off, Shifting pulled aside Silty for a moment.

“Recruit Stone, I had a question, a yes, no, or ‘none your business,’ will suffice,” Shifting remarked.

“That is not the first time you’ve been in such a lethal situation, is it?”

Silty shook her head, shrugging casually. “A few years ago, some creep drugged or just plain out of his mind decided to crash a party. He got ahold of a kitchen knife, and began to rant and rave, but he never got the chance to act on his words. He tried to lunge at my friend with it, and that’s…about it,” the thestral shrugged her wings. “Part of the reason I joined the guard actually. That was the first time I saw the real evil that was out there. I could either be like the ponies who were frozen in fear, or I could help. Obviously, I chose the latter.”

Letting out a hum, Shifting nodded at her words. “Well, I’m glad everything turned out well in the end. Such events never really leave you; all we can do is move forward or backwards. I’m glad to see it has done the former for you.”

Silty saluted, shooting Shifting a fang-filled smile as she trotted off back to her compatriots.

That makes a bit more sense; and I hope your friends are as determined as you, Recruit Stone. We need more ponies who act nowadays.

*One Day Later*

“Oh, I hope Luna likes all of this…” Shifting muttered, looking at himself in a hallway mirror. The dance was in but an hour; and hopefully everything was set. Clad in his simple Lunar Knight breastplate and greaves, Shifting had two small faux-leather side satchels on as well- the only contents being a few small wooden boxes placed inside of each.

“Oh, I think she’ll love it,” A familiar tone rang out, Celestia walking over to look at the Commander.

“I have to say, the request to involve the Thestrals was a very interesting one, and kind at that. I only hope the nobility is willing to be as open minded as others,” Celestia mused. “And the theme…I do think Luna will be quite surprised.”

“She doesn’t know?” Shifting asked, prompting a sly chuckle.

“Nope. I’ve kept her in the dark. All she knows is that it’s a dance, a ‘normal’ noble event. She has no idea.”

“Thank you, Celestia. Truly, this- I just hope it will make her happy.”

“Shifting, I don’t think she’ll be able to frown for a week after this. And when it comes to making my sister happy, I’m more than willing to help. I’ll see you there.”

Luna blinked in surprise as she neared the dance venue; set up in an indoor/outdoor space of the Canterlot royal gardens. Her sister had been strangely mum on the specifics of the dance, but Luna could hardly blame her. Such events were taxing and not terribly fun to think about at times…

“Hey, Luna!” Shifting called out, trotting over with a smile. “I think things are about to get started!”

About to reply, Luna was then distracted by a few ponies trotting inside wearing…something. She wasn’t entirely sure what it was; but it involved glitter and some rather flashy half-forelimb length latex…stockings?

“Erm, Shifting?” she asked, trotting next to her date towards the entrance, seeing a few royal guards posted for special assignment. “Why exactly were those ponies dressed like that?”

“Oh. That’s because of the theme, or themes at least,” the Knight remarked casually, prompting a stare.

“Themes? Nopony ever told me about a theme.”

“Of course not. That’d ruin the surprise.”

“Surprise of…..” Luna’s words trailed off as they entered the main half-ballroom, her jaw dropping in utter shock. To their left and right, food tables were set up where nobles, thestrals, and even occasional random Canterlot residents browsed. In the center however, were two large open spaces, set in front of a wooden DJ-stage that was crowded with all sorts of paraphernalia, and some rather large speakers.

Hanging over one of the dancing areas, was a massive disco ball; which seemed perfectly in place with the odd mis-match of styles that dotted the attendants. Poofy and loose garments, flashy necklaces; the styles seemed to span a few decades.

“It’s not really a disco theme at least, but around that era. Pop, disco, new rock, all that sort of thing,” Shifting mused, gesturing around. “I’m glad to see the Thestrals are mingling with the nobles- that was a main worry. I guess they’re somewhat of a novelty.”

“Shifting, I…”

The Commander paused, looking over to the shocked princess with a confident grin, but that wavered ever so slightly.

“Do, you like it?”

The ramification of Shifting’s words seemed to hit Luna like a train, the alicorn’s eyes widening.

“Is this- was this all for me?”

Shifting shook his head, but then paused and shrugged with a nod. “Yes and no? There was going to be a dance anyways. But I wanted to make it special for you, so in that sense, yes. Specifically, I wanted it to bring together everycreature in an event that showcased that which most ponies associate with you. Your sister was all for it too. I’m was miffed that Thestrals still had the reputation of being seen as scary and shunned, so they needed to attend of course, and the increasing knowledge of your liking of disco and pop was taken into account. That was a bit of a gamble, because you had only mentioned it once or twi-”

The stallion was quickly silenced as a very brief but tender kiss was planted on his lips, Luna blushing as her eyes continued to water.

“Shifting, I love it,” she whispered, nudging his shoulder. “As I hope I made clear. Shall we?”

“Bwa?”

One of the Commander’s ears twitched, the stallion finally shaking out of his surprised stupor as he walked, stumbling once.

“Just to be clear. You kissed me?”

“Mmmhmm.”

“I- erm...” Shifting stammered, a slight blush on his cheeks dawning as his heart thudded in his ears. “Of the things I was expecting that was not one of them. I’d say that was much better though.”

As they walked towards where Celestia sat, Shifting couldn’t resist leaning over to Luna, whispering briefly in her ear.

“After the dance, I do hope I can sample such a delicacy again!”

The maroon color on the Alicorn’s cheeks made Shifting cackle, the knight grinning at her. “Don’t tell me you didn’t see that coming!”

“I want to disagree, but I cannot.”

“Then, my Princess, shall we enjoy the dance? I do believe the music is about to start!”

The first few songs were a mix; the customary slow dances that were popular with such gatherings being played by an orchestra that filed in. But that quickly changed as the music shifted to the DJ, faster songs piping through the speakers. Ponies twirled this way and that, the atmosphere generally peppy. Shifting watched the proceedings with Luna and Celestia; his eyes flickering over the crowd. It was a positive vibe, and yet something was off…

It then hit him as another dance started up;

While a few thestrals danced, the majority were off to the side, seeming to be a bit uncomfortable in the spotlight. He didn’t blame them for that; this was one of the few events they had been specifically invited to.

Shifting grinned, knowing it was time for ‘Pop Plan One; Ice Breaker.’ “Princesses? Please open these on the commencement of the next song,” Shifting instructed, levitating the two small boxes over to Celestia and Luna respectively, the pair looking at him curiously.

“Shifting, what are you planning?” Luna asked, the stallion floating a small note over to the DJ.

“Merriment and joy. Nothing less,” he remarked, the DJ repeating the intro for new song now. As the newer music thudded out over the floor. a few ponies formed a line for the dance; the knowledge of the steps being near common knowledge to anycreature who liked such types of dances.

Shifting grinned as Luna’s hoof immediately began to tap with the beat, the stallion then standing and bowing.

“Don’t suppose you’ll join me on the line?” he asked, levitating a crystal out of his satchel and tapping it with a hoof.

For the second time that night, Luna’s jaw dropped as her date trotted out onto the dance floor. Magic swirled around his frame, armor being replaced with a sparkling white suit and matching half-cape, red highlights drawing quite a few eyes in the room. His greaves were even changed, sparkling with faux diamonds set into the white silk.

As the main song began to play, Shifting took his place on the line, and saw a thestral colt tapping his hooves to the beat off to the side, the youngster still staying close to his parents.

Catching the eye of the older thestrals, Shifting nodded, gesturing to the colt with a smile. The youngster looked to his parents curiously, the pair’s expressions brightening as they nodded towards the Commander encouragingly. Trotting out to take a place at Shifting’s side, the colt was all smiles as the steps began, not feeling as alone with the Commander at his side.

Having practiced the dance dozens of times, Shifting had a carefree grin plastered on his face as he moved in time with everypony else; not caring at the astonished glances shot his way as the Commander of the Lunar Knights danced.

As soon as Luna recovered from her shock, she levitated the box over and opened it, her date surprising her for the third time that evening. Sitting on a small velvet cushion, a small crystal sat with a simple note.

‘For disco attire, tap twice.’

Halfway through the first set of moves, Luna couldn’t take it anymore. Tapping the crystal, the Alicorn let out a giggle as magic swirled over her body. Flashy forelimb bands snapped into existence, teal and pinks standing out against her dark blue fur. Her mane billowed and poofed, becoming similar to the style she tried on her day off with Celestia. Trotting out with a laugh, the Princess took a place on the other side of Shifting, attracting even more astonished gazes.

More than a few jaws dropped further as Celestia tapped her crystal, a similar attire dawning on her frame. The mare calmly looked over to some gaping nobles and shrugged, walking out to take a place at the back of the line with a carefree smile. She was quickly joined by a familiar pair; Fancy Pants and Fleur-de-lis taking a place in the line.

As Luna and Shifting ran through the dance again, the song smoothly looping halfway as more ponies joined the line, the Lunar Princess could only smile. Thestrals and nobles mingled during the dance; boundaries eliminated by a silly but fun exercise. Smiles spread around the room, the majority of ponies joined in, even if they only knew a few steps here and there.

Is this what you wanted Shifting, to show me that we’re all in this together?

Her question seemed to answer itself as Shifting’s eyes met hers ever so briefly. The stallion winked, smoothly spinning into the next set of moves.

You continue to amaze me, my Knight.

As the song ended, everypony was left panting and trying to catch their breath. Returning to their seats, Shifting, Celestia and Luna still stayed in their attire; the Lunar Princess looking over to her Commander.

“Shifting, that was incredible!” she exclaimed, clopping her hooves together. “And this spell! It’s fantastic! Oh, and Sister! You look great!”

Shifting bobbed his head happily to the tune that started up now, a few recovered couples dancing to the slightly-slower song.

“I’m just happy everypony had fun, you included. I do believe there are some slow songs coming up, and I’d love to have a dance or two.”

“…only if you keep wearing that attire. You look incredible,” Luna replied, the rather long gaze directed towards Shifting bringing a blush to both her and his cheeks.

Another wink was her answer, Shifting then turning his attention to the dance floor. After two more medium-paced songs, a slower tune then beginning. Offering a hoof to Luna, Shifting led her to the dance floor as the Princess clearly tried to restrain a wide grin. The slight size difference wasn’t terribly important, Shifting easily adjusting a hoof.

“Thank you, Shifting,” Luna whispered as the stallion guided her through the slower waltz. “This means a great deal more than I think you realize.”

Shifting’s expression softened, his eyes meeting Luna’s briefly. “Luna, I might be one of the few who does have an inkling of how much it means. Maybe not all, but I can imagine. And you are most welcome of course.”

Luna couldn’t hold back a slight sniff, only able to nod.

“I really wouldn’t mind some more times like this too. I know slow dances aren’t on the same level of enjoyment as others for you; but still…”

“I’d like that,” Luna replied, trying to not turn to total putty as Shifting led her through a simple yet impeccable waltz step.

As the dance concluded, they bowed formally to each other, Shifting then gesturing to a side exit.

“May we…?”

Luna nodded, Shifting trotting along at her side. Only once they were in a small secluded area of the garden did the stallion sit down, hoof nervously tapping the cobblestones briefly. The fresh moon cast peaceful shadows among the tall hedges that surrounded them, and the soft sounds of nocturnal birds reached their ears, the inhabitants of the garden slowly coming to wakefulness.

“I just-Luna, there is something I’d like to ask,” he said softly, gentle gaze meeting hers. “Perhaps it’s just formality at this point, but I was wondering if being my marefriend was something that you’d like to, well, be? Erm,” his words trailed off, the stallion letting out a chuckle. “Clearly age doesn’t eliminate jitters.”

“I…” Luna opened her mouth, then closing it as she nodded, wanting to give some sort of answer even if not able to speak.

“Shifting, I’ve honestly considered us such an item ever since we started dating regularly, as I thought was customary. I…enjoy the thought of an official title though. So, yes, if that wasn’t clear.”

Shifting laughed, filled with relief and happiness as he hopped up and down twice, then settling down to trot a bit close to Luna. Pausing in front of her, the stallion placed a hoof gently under her chin, the Alicorn smiling as Shifting brought her into a tender kiss.

“I did say I’d like to enjoy that a bit more,” Shifting whispered, prompting a giggle.

“Indeed, you did.”

Taking Luna’s hoof in his, Shifting’s ears flicked in thought, the stallion letting out a sigh. “Luna, much of this is new territory for me, and for you, as you’ve said. I guess I’m trying to say that I look forward to seeing how it all goes with you. In two different senses at least, us, and being there for each other.”

Luna nodded, giving Shifting’s hoof a squeeze. “I very much look forward to the same, my Knight. Now, shall we return to the dance floor?”

“Indeed, I think we shall, my Princess.”

Far from the festivities, a group of ponies was gathered on a bare rocky outcropping, the expanse jutting out from the mountainside far above Canterlot. The eyes of a shimmering blue mare narrowed as a panting pony paused in front of her, his horn still sparking from a teleportation spell.

“Report.” she hissed, a dozen armored ponies behind her standing in respect at the sound of her voice.

“Princess Sparkle is visiting at the end of next week. I have the schedule of when she leaves the guards’ company and wanders Canterlot before ending up at the train station,” the dark green pony panted, the icy gaze of the mare boring into his soul.

“You have done well. Get food and rest. We move then,” the mare growled, ears flicking as a pony behind her let out a hum.

“Princess Sparkle? Really? We’re going after her? Are you sure that’s-”

The mare sighed, the sound immediately silencing the question. She trotted up to the armored stallion in question with an impassive gaze. She then looked over to her left; everpony present wincing.

“If you wish to question my motives, or rather, our masters, feel free to do so. The answer will be the same that I gave your disruptive friend.”

The mercenary shook his head; everypony’s eyes drifting to a frozen figure in the corner of the rocky expanse. The two shocked eyes of an earth pony stallion were frozen in time; an icicle protruding from the individual’s skull.

“We move next week. Alert the others.”

Author's Note

DISCO LUNA RETURNS! HUZZAH!
(and has anyone else done the line dance to that song? Totally fun.)

Sorry for the late chapter everyone; but here we go! Progress with training and the return of disco Luna! And a bit of progression from our two. Isn't this new? A normal(ish) relationship between two adults....huh.

...And uh oh. That went from zero to a hundred in about a second!
Stay tuned for the finale!