Dutifully Yours

Chapter III: Seasaddle the Delivered, Seasaddle the Indebted

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A heavy golden medal, bound by a red ribbon was raised from a nearby box, followed by another. They were wreathed in the golden aura of Celestia’s magic. One such medal floated over the Twilight and was placed gently around her neck. The other found its way over to Clegmane and settled around his. Cheers erupted.

Clegmane watched as Twilight shifted her hooves and looked at the Princess, who stared back, smiling. Celestia then turned back to look upon her subjects. “Greater decisions have yet to be made, some sooner than others, my precious followers! I assure you that all shall be done in order to provide your continued safety, peace and prosperity! Mayor?”

The Princess had spoken eloquently, Clegmane admitted to himself. She could probably convince half of this city to jump into the Pintocific if she wished it. The thought made him chuckle, only slightly. Still, he watched the crowd wearily, they who now held him and Twilight Sparkle upon on high pedestals. How long will this last? He chanced a glance at the wide-eyed unicorn. By the look on her face, hopefully not long.

He pondered the honour given to him: What does she mean by Protector of the
City? We barely survived the encounter as it as, let alone be able to keep it up, should it happen again. Clegmane cursed under his breath. Celestia willing that never happens again. And yet figured that he, judging by the look on the Princess’ face—unreadable as it was—should be expecting to be disappointed. Discarding me just to prop me back up again, Your Highness? Clegmane wrestled with the notion of smiling at the coincidence or frowning at the reality. A frown would suffice, for it was more becoming, at least to him.

‘Smile, Cleggy,’ his wife would say to him. ‘Don’t let it fade.’ Again, he looked at Twilight’s surprised visage, which refused to relinquish itself. That warrants a bit of a smile, I suppose. He did so and she looked back at him, her surprise melting into… something. He was not sure what, but it felt nice all the same.

Okay, she’s calm, he figured. Now what?”

“Please follow me, you two. We have much to discuss.” The voice of Celestia shook Clegmane out of his stupor as he shook his head. As they walked into the old stone structure, the Princess giggled and said, “It’s not often a Captain of the Royal Guard gets caught in his own world.”

“My world is—was the Guard, Highness,” he said, trying not to sound bitter.

“No, Clegmane,” replied the Princess with an edged tone, looking deep into his good eye. This forced him to visibly shrink, only slightly. “Your world is so much larger than the Guard, which is why I need you and Twilight now more than ever.”

“What does she mean by that?” Twilight whispered into Clegmane’s ear.

“I guess we’ll have to find out,” replied Clegmane, clearing his throat. On they walked, deeper into the brightly lit building. The blue velvet rug extended all the way down the hallway and took on a hue of the ocean itself. The carpet’s golden trim reminded him of the coastal sands that he and Vidalia would oft travel upon, settle down for an impromptu picnic, stare at the ever-shifting sky and each other. Warmth rose in his chest, but was suddenly stifled by the chill of the room they followed Celestia into. It was a large conference hall made of oaken walls and black marble flooring. Natural light from an overhead skylight flooded the room with radiance. The source of cold came from the open windows that faced the Pintocific and its mighty gusts of marine wind. Despite the lovely view, the bright light or the classically carved furniture of the conference room, the most captivating presence was the flowing nightscape Princess Luna’s mane. The tall, dark mare sat opposite of the long table, an indescribable look upon her face. Clegmane tried not to stare, but even he was not immune to the wonder, the beauty and the frightening mystery of Luna. Thankfully, she paid him no heed, but instead focused her sight on her regal sister, then to Twilight. Clegmane composed himself as the Royal Sister briefly gazed upon him before returning to Celestia.

When they came to a stop, she finally spoke, saying, “Pray tell, Dearest Sister, that We did not miss too much of thine oration?”

Celestia fixed her sister a bemused grin, “Are you not always far too busy for my public speaking, Sister?”

“We have ears and they function. We need no presence to hear thee speak.” Luna took another glance in Clegmane’s direction; then Twilight’s and said, “It is always a pleasure to greet thee, Twilight Sparkle. And thee, Sir Clegmane, We have heard much of thine bravery and exploits. We pray that thine wounds cause thee little grief.”

Clegmane cleared his throat and bowed so low that his medal clattered heavily onto the marble. “I can still fight, Highness. Nothing shall change that, but I gratefully appreciate the concern. It means the world for a simple stallion to hear the sweet words of his Liege.” He rose and gently levitated the medal off his neck, placing it quietly upon the nearby table.

Luna smiled and turned to Twilight, who bowed as well. “Twilight Sparkle, We wish to extend to thee Our congratulations and our blessing.”

Twilight rose from her bow, Clegmane noted, with a raised eyebrow and confused look. He sniffed with silent amusement. Her expressions are quite fetching, actually, he admitted to himself. “Princess, may I ask what the blessing is?”

Luna looked to her sister. “Being cryptic is supposed to be Our employ, Sister.”

Celestia smiled mischievously. “Well, you’ve confused them, so I would say that you’re still in charge of that department.” Luna frowned, then turned back to Twilight with an apologetic smile.

For almost thirty years, I’ve known nothing but propriety from Princess Celestia and have had very little interaction with Luna over this past year. Yet, I’ve never seen them this relaxed or… common. Clegmane bit his lip in order to maintain his steely composure as Luna spoke on, “Given the nature of this disaster and the presence of a rogue dragon in Equestria, and thine remarkable abilities, We have made arrangement for your concession, should you choose to accept it.”

“An arrangement for what, may I ask?” Twilight cautiously stepped forward.

“And institution, Twilight Sparkle. A place of learning founded by the City of Seasaddle, granted by Regents, and run by you.”

Twilight froze, but Clegmane could see that she was beginning to quake. “An institution?” She asked.

“I call it the Sparkle’s Institution of Magical Education,” Celestia added.

Twilight was quite visibly shaking now, “You want to give me a school of my own? To teach magic?”

“Yes,” replied Luna, “But it would not be any sort of magic, but the advanced spells that thou hast cast in order to safeguard the city. Life-saving magic.”

“B-but, Princess,” Twilight looked pleadingly toward Celestia, whose expression softened for her student. “What about my own education? How can I focus on my own studies about the magic of friendship if I am too busy running my own school?”

Princess Celestia calmly walked up to Twilight and wrapped her great white wings around her student in a gentle embrace. Clegmane felt the warmth of the embrace as Celestia’s mane cast its aura about him as well. All the while, Twilight spoke, saying, “And my friends? I can’t just leave…” her words dropped as if she suddenly realized something. Her expression deepened in its sadness and her voice went so low that Clegmane could barely read them. “But I’ve already left them behind. Spike and Applejack, their engagement party, Pinkie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Zecora, all of them.”

“I know this is a hard decision, my faithful student.” Celestia cradled Twilight affectionately. “That is why it is a decision, one that you can make now or later, but it wall always be your decision. Regardless, we will support it and find a way to solve all of our problems.”

Clegmane pondered the decision himself. He really had no say in the choice, but he measured the weight of it. Seasaddle was his home now and he recognized the value of Twilight’s institution. Magic like that can only be taught formally and carefully. It would be necessary to stave off another dragon attack, especially from one that might be bound for vengeance. No other beast in the world strove for revenge, Clegmane thought. Save for packs of timber wolves. He shuddered at the thought of being at the mercy of timber wolves, let alone a dragon. Still, he had faced the dragon, had he not? Yes, but he had only survived because of Twilight Sparkle. She was someone he—that Seasaddle—needed to be feel safe and normal again. At least until she could successfully pass her spells on to the next generation and then leave her free to live her life without the danger that he would rather face in her stead.

That I would rather face in her stead…. That being considered, why am I even here if this meeting is about Twilight and her new Institution?

“I-I,” stammered Twilight, “I may need some time to think about this.”

“You have as much time as you need to think over the offer. It will still stand, even if you initially decline, Twilight.” Celestia released her student and nuzzled her affectionately.

Clegmane spoke up, saying, “With your permission, Princesses, Lady Sparkle, I will take my leave and allow you space to consider your choices.” Twilight said nothing, for her gaze appeared distant, pondering.

Celestia broke the embrace her protégé and then turned to face Clegmane. “You may go as you please, Sir. But I request that you not stray too far from this place, or from those whom have found themselves under your protection.” Clegmane resisted the urge to tilt his head and crook his brow. He then saw Twilight, ears drooped and violet eyes pleading as they met his. Clegmane’s heart fell at the glance and he simply stared back. She’s vulnerable, Warhorse, he chided himself. Try not to push her too far away.

“I won’t go far,” he all but whispered. Twilight smiled weakly and nodded. Clegmane did not register Celestia’s unreadable visage, he did not need to or want to. With a stiff bow, he turned to leave.

Out in the corridor, Clegmane found himself standing before an empty wall. It was devoid of any and all decoration: no paintings, no lights, no attempt to cover the lacquered finish of the redwood grain. This was once a plain, simple, once-grand and infallible tree. He stared at what remained of it. How much time had it taken for this specimen to grow and rise above all others before it was felled and formed? How long had it served its purpose before being turned into this old building? How long wold it before the powers that be decide to tear it down, discard it and replace it wholesale? Would anyone even notice? Would anyone care?

It was just a wall, alone among other, worthier walls. But, he liked this wall because it was honest and unafraid of its nakedness. Unafraid? Of course! It was simply a wall and nothing more: a necessity of this greater structure. The dark red wood, as far as Clegmane could tell, had been recently cleaned and polished to a mirror sheen: he almost saw his face in it, grey and worn. Then, a dark aura overtook his reflection and a cold, wispy stars cape billowed behind him. Despite her silver shoes, Clegmane did not hear the Princess of the Night approach him.

Her strong voice followed her reflection. “As for thee, Sir Clegmane,” the warhorse shot back to his rigid posture, despite the protest of his aching muscles. Clearly, he thought, the spotlight isn’t quite finished with me. He contained an inward groan. Luna continued, “As much as thou wish it were, this honour does not fall exclusively to Twilight.”

“Highness?” Clegmane asked cautiously.

Luna replied, “Thou hast shown great vigilance and determination in facing the dragon, Sir Clegmane. Do not think that because thou art retired that thou art permitted to rest just yet! We require thine courage, Clegmane. We require it to inspire this frightened, angry city to stand on its own and be taught the skill it requires to defend itself.”

“Are my Princesses requiring my services?” Clegmane asked Luna evenly, directly, though he did not look at her.

“Yes, Clegmane. Alone, thou stood for hours against the dragon. We need thee to teach the ponies of this city to do the same, because We can assure thee, Sir, that the beast will return.”

Clegmane’s throat tightened a bit. “Somehow,” he said in a low, steady voice, “I am not surprised.”

“A stallion in thine position hath surely seen much in order to be so steadfast. We can appreciate how very little can daunt thee.”

“With respect, Highness,” Clegmane chuckled. “I take that as a compliment from an immortal such as yourself.” Luna offered a light laugh, soft as a nightingale song.

“What would you have your soldier do?” Clegmane asked.

“We would have thee stay with Twilight Sparkle, remain at her side and train the students at her school in the martial arts thou hast employed against the drake.”

Clegmane frowned. “And are we assuming that Twilight will simply abandon her life in Ponyville?” The heat rose in the warhorse’s cheeks. How presumptuous! Even for an immortal! Perhaps being up on the moon has stymied her perceptions on reasonable expectation. It appears that the Nightmare may still yet be among us.

Luna gently shook her head. Clegmane could see that she was watching his frown. He decided to level it. Nightmare or not, she is still my Princess and I must concede. “I can see that you do not approve.” Her voice was even, though lacking in royal weight. “I would cite regulation and the unquestioning duty of Sirs of the Guard, by I can see why you truly disapprove.” A wry smile formed on the corner of the dark Princess’ mouth. Clegmane’s eye widened. Is she speaking in commons?

“You care for her, don’t you?” She asked.

“I beg pardon?” Clegmane replied.

“Twilight Sparkle. You care for her.” Luna’s smile did not fade. “I was born for the night, Sir Clegmane, but I was not born last night. Why else would you frown so deeply at my supposed assumptions? Why else would she have come here if she did not care for you in turn?”

“She is an old friend, My Princess. I have known her since she was a filly.” Clegmane stood straight and faced his Princess. “I wished for her friendship and I ask no more. I never will.”

“And if she does?” Luna’s shimmering blue eyes stared intently into his.

“If I may, Highness,” Clegmane began cautiously.

“You may.” She waved her graceful hoof.

“I am a decade her senior!” he harshly whispered for fear of permeation through the doors.

“Granted, Sir, but my question still stands.” Luna pressed.

“I…” I don’t know.

The door behind them creaked open and the conversation was over. Clegmane breathed a sigh of relief. Twilight stepped out of the conference room with Celestia following closely behind her. Luna turned her focus onto her sister and Twilight walked slowly toward Clegmane. Her purple eyes were uncertain, though her face warmed when it met his. He did his best to ignore the heat that threatened to overrun his cheeks. Instead, he asked, calmly, “Is everything all right?”

She sighed, “I’ve decided to write my friends back in Ponyville. I need their words, since I don’t seem to trust my own right now.” With a flare of her horn, she illuminated the flap of her saddlebag and retrieved a quill, some bottled ink and a roll of parchment. Clegmane gave her a look and she noticed. With a weak grin, Twilight said, “I never leave home without them.”

That can’t be true, Clegmane wondered, but then shrugged it off. No big concern if she does or not. One would think that I’d notice these things about a mare I’ve know almost her whole life. That notion made the warhorse quiver. Celestial bodies, I’m old.

“Can… can you help me write it, Clegmane?” Asked Twilight. Clegmane looked at the young mare, then to Celestia, who nodded in approval. He hesitated, but then quickly glanced to Luna. Her eyes betrayed her, perhaps to her choosing, as a sly grin spread across her face. He then brought his amber eye to bear upon Twilight once more, her eyes were pleading, lost.

“If you think I can be of use, Miss Sparkle, then I would be happy to oblige.”

What Clegmane once thought was Twilight’s weakest grin suddenly erupted into a flourished, grateful smile. “Thank you!” she squealed, surging toward him and quickly nuzzling his cheek. Before Clegmane could stammer a welcome, Twilight turned about face and disappeared into the conference room, quill and parchment behind her. The ink well, on the other hoof, was lost to the magical lavender aura and fell toward the floor. Before the ground could purchase the bottle, a silvery blue hue surrounded it. Luna wordlessly passed the well to Clegmane and dropped it into his own green grasp. He then followed Twilight into the room with his new charge bobbing in the air before him. With a soft click, the doors behind him shut and… locked? Clegmane rolled his eye. It would take him the rest of his life to even begin to understand the machinations of Princess Celestia’s energetic sister. Standing at a nearby table, Twilight appeared to have realized her little oversight as her eye caught the ink suspended well. She reached out with her magic once again and grasped the bottle. That was when Clegmane felt the electrical pulse down is horn and travel along the length of his spine. Twilight’s soft gasp told him that she had felt it to. Their aura’s swirled, but did not mix. Magic was like that, especially interacting magical fields. It produced different effects for the wielders. Most were barely noticeable while others were quite painful. A few were subtle and even fewer were pleasant. Clegmane was not sure how to feel. He watched Twilight shake her head and quickly place the objects on the table. The ink toppled over, but the spill was stayed for the lacquered cork.

“Lousy inkwell…” Clegmane heard Twilight mutter. He simply chuckled. She shyly looked over to him and asked, “Shall we begin?”

“I admit that I’ve only ever spoken to your friend Lady Applejack, and Master Spike, of course,” Clegmane said, rubbing the back of is neck. “As for your other friends, I don’t know how I can be of any more help.”

“It’s alright, Clegmane,” replied Twilight as she spread the scroll and readied the quill. “Just you being here is helping immensely.” She cleared her throat and began writing, dictating as she did so:

“My Dearest Friends,
First, let me apologize for having to leave so quickly, especially after having Spike back to the world of the waking! Spike, I know I told you that I would be back in time to properly celebrate your and AJ’s engagement. It means the world to me to see you two so happy. However, you have likely heard by now about what’s befallen Seasaddle. And yes, the rumours are true: a dragon caused it, one from the siege, most likely. Please know that I am safe for the moment and that I am here with Captain Clegmane who helped to save the city in the first place! Because of what’s happened and what we’ve done, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna have asked us to stay and prepare the city for another attack. I don’t know how long that will take and I am very nervous. I need to hear from you guys before too long. We may even need to assemble, for all I know. All I do know is that our fellow ponies are in trouble and I need to help them. Any generous words of kindness, honesty, or loyalty to offer? Hay, a laugh would do me some good, too! I’ll take the lot if possible.

I’m sorry that I cannot be there for you, Spike. I hope you can forgive me.

Your friend,
Twilight Sparkle.

P.S.: Spike, please be sure to thank your parents for me. I’m glad they were kind enough to explain your condition to us. Regardless, I hope what they said is not entirely true… for their sakes. They’ve waited a long time to see you again. I wouldn’t want that time cut short if I was in their shoes… not that dragons wear shoes… you know what I mean!”

At that, Twilight lifted the quill and gently blew on ink to dry it. Satisfied, she rolled up the parchment and tied it off with a red ribbon.

“Better?” Asked Clegmane.

“Worlds.” She smiled and levitated the scroll above her head.

“Question,” he began. Twilight glanced back to him, waiting. “Did you say that Spike and Lady Applejack—assuming that is what ‘AJ’ refers to—are… engaged? Not just together?”

“Thanks right,” replied Twilight without skipping a beat.

“Hm,” was all that Clegmane allowed himself to say.

“The heart wants what it wants, right?” Twilight said, uncertainly now trailing in her voice.

“Indeed.” Clegmane sighed inwardly and could swear that Twilight was doing the same. Before too long, Twilight opened the door and saw the pair of princesses standing, waiting patiently for her return.

“Are you ready to send it?” Celestia asked.

“Yes, Princess,” replied Twilight with a light nod. In an instant, the scroll became wreathed in light, then vanished into nothingness.

“How do you feel?” asked Celestia.

“Ready to begin.” Twilight flashed a nervous, yet determined smile. Clegmane found this rather fetching and he could not help but smile with her.

“And thee, Sir Clegmane?” Asked a knowing Princess Luna.

“If Miss Sparkle is ready, then so am I.”

“Good,” replied both Princesses in unison.

Once outside, Clegmane heard the voice of Mayor Coffee Bean as it pervaded the still-present and ever-growing crowd. Lines of firefighter ponies, local militia, paramedics and small local heroes had been given various awards and speeches to commemorate their sacrifices in the disaster. It was clear to Clegmane that, while noble, these ceremonies served the dual purpose of also biding time to announce Twilight Sparkle’s decision and the fate of her institution. Clever, he thought. The ponies cheered the return of their sovereigns and the Mayor concluded his latest speech with a bow before surrendering the podium to Celestia.

“Thank you for your patience, my little ponies!” announced Celestia. “Please turn your attention to the Protectors of the City, for they have agreed to a most noble deed. In facing the ferocious dragon, they have gained what we standing here could not: experience! As such, their experience shall prove instrumental in bringing order to this chaos and justice to this fugitive dragon! However, there can be no limited measure of caution that can be taken in order to prevent further events from transpiring! As such, I, Princess Celestia, by unanimous decision of my Dear Sister and the municipality of Seasaddle Government do also declare the founding of the Sparkle Institute for Magical Education. Wherein my most faithful student shall from henceforth and with capable hooves educate the next generation of unicorns in the ways of emergency magic, in all forms.”

All eyes fell to Twilight then, Clegmane noted. Some fell upon him as well, but he ignored them. He watched her shrink from the attention, blushing as her ears perked. Hm, thought Clegmane, the Sparkle Institute for Magical Education. It has a nice ring to it. And yet, I have a hoof in it, somehow. His eyes swept across the ponies who flooded the streets. Look at them, he sneered. Tightly packed, blocking all avenues of escape - a killbox waiting to happen. One breath and that damned dragon could make a buffet out of all of them. “Civilians…”he muttered to himself.

“As for any physical combat that may arise,” Celestia announced, changing the subject, “I turn your attention to the spectacle of Royal Guard achievement, Sir Clegmane, former Captain of the Guard!” Now it was his turn to blush as all eyes found his tall grey figured standing close to Twilight, his fellow Protector. “Sir Clegmane,” continued the Princess, “as you can see, has given much to Seasaddle already, and for this, we are thankful. Now we must honour his sacrifices by adhering to his instruction and following his lead, just as my soldiers have for many years. Seasaddle, rest assured that your training is in capable hooves!”

Capable hooves, she says, Clegmane grumbled. I’m half blind, sore all over and I barely survived that encounter that is supposedly now my legacy. Tartarus belay that legacy. He gave his head a little shake to dispel the notion. Square that noise away, solider. You’re doing this for more reasons than your own. He looked at Twilight, who offered an encouraging smile. He smiled back. Seeing her young visage so focused on him stirred his memory: of his home on the hilltop, of the fresh-faced pony in the picture frame. His heart warmed and smile did not fade. I guess I should be thankful, especially for you, Twilight Sparkle. He could admit this to himself, but not to her. Not yet. She had plenty of manure headed her way that he felt it prudent to keep his trap shut as he was trained to do. That suited him just fine.

The speeches ended, the sun was high and the school was born. Such was the high noon of this Seasaddle day. For the ponies of this city, there was much to celebrate. For the saviors of the city, there remained much to do. Clegmane walked with Twilight to rejoin the Princesses, both of whom were taking the time to meet and congratulate each of the heroic service ponies personally. Mayor Coffee Bean, however, made his way toward them and Clegmane felt his fur bristle. The glint in the mayor’s eye was not lost to him. No, not to half-blind Clegmane, he was sure of that! The mayor gave a curt nod to him, which he did not return. The politician then turned to Twilight, who seemed, naively so, to take better to him.

“It gladdens me greatly to know that the Protectors of the City will remain to continue with their vaunted protection.” The mayor offered a well-rehearsed grin before bowing his head low to Twilight. He then reached out with his grey wing and gently raised one of her hooves up to his lips before planting a tender kiss upon it. The hoof was down, which left Twilight blushing furiously at the sudden display and who mumbled a some thanks. Coffee Bean furled his wing back and flashed a toothy smile in Clegmane’s direction. The warhorse ground his teeth. It was all he could do in order to keep his own hooves planted and his horn from flaring. Leave it, Clegs, he scolded himself. He’s actively trying to push your buttons now. Be stoic. Be the captain you are! His eye remained hard on the grey pegasus, a fact that stirred his bodyguards, all of whom were standing well out of the reach of Clegmane’s limbs. Smart, he thought, counting the muscle. Four visible guards, he mused. Could be more in the shadows, too. Seasaddle thugs learn fast, apparently. Must be the abundance of oxygen down here in these river valleys. He chanced a glance toward the purple mountains to the East. Canterlot seemed so far away now, its heights staggering even to him. The mayor broke the silence that clung to him. “And you, my former captain of the Royal Guard, seem to have found yourself in command once again, albeit of studious unicorns who need to throw some muscle behind their new spells.”

Clegmane said nothing beyond a simple grunt. A single hair came out of place on the mayor’s dark, well-slicked mane. He continued nonetheless and much to Clegmane’s distain. “I should like to celebrate our newfound Protectors and their achievements by having them as my honored guests for a luncheon with City Council. The Princesses will be joining us, of course!”

Guests to nest full of vipers, I can pass on, brooded Clegmane. However, to leave Twilight to their non-existent mercy? Unacceptable! I just want to go home for the rest of the day, but not before I see Miss Sparkle delivered safely from this lot. Now, how to do it…

“I appreciate your offer, Mayor,” replied Twilight, “but, I think I’ll just head back to my hotel. Hopefully my reservation still stands.”

Clever girl. Clegmane smiled inwardly. She can handle herself well enough, so I guess she won’t need me.

“Ah yes, the Stable Hotel, correct?” Coffee Bean asked.

Twilight was clearly taken aback. “Um, y-yes! How did you—”

“Lucky guess, I suppose.” The stallion chuckled. “Regardless, it doesn’t matter, since I’ve taken the liberty of reserving a room for each you at the Delta Chivalry, on my bit, of course!”

“The Delta? You mean The Delta?” Twilight nearly gasped. Clegmane’s own dour expression also gave way to the mildest of surprise. The Delta Chivalry was the most prestigious hotel chain in Equestria, rivaling the very best of Canterlot short of the Palace itself. Yet, here he was, being offered a room for no charge. He held his breath and glanced to the East. Between the tall structures and chimneys, he saw it: Oignon Downs, upon the hilltop overlooking Seasaddle. There’s my bivouac, he sighed. The only slice of heaven I’ve truly known.

He looked back at the mayor, dead in the eye. “I appreciate the generous offer, Mayor Bean, but I will pass on both the luncheon and the room and take my leave back home. I will inform the Princesses and be on my way. Again, thank you.” He turned to leave.

“Pardon me, Sir Clegmane, but is home for you not that dreadful eyesore upon the Eastern hill? Surely, I can convince you to stay at the Delta with Miss Sparkle? I certainly wouldn’t wish for her to stay in an abandoned old manor such as that. Furthermore, I would not wish for one of Seasaddle’s saviors to live in such squalor!” Clegmane stopped, but did not turn around. “Granted that the district lines fall short of that tumbled-down old shack, otherwise would have endeavored to have it condemned myself.”

That ‘shack’ is my home… Clegmane’s throat clenched and his muscles burned. That shack was my family’s home—my wife’s last remaining memory. Heat rose up to his forehead, threatening to boil over. Though none could see it, mighty Clegmane the Steadfast was shaking with anger. Give me a reason to turn around and find my spear, pegasus.

“Oignon Downs sounds pretty cozy, actually,” said Twilight, cheerfully. Quietly, she trotted up to Clegmane and stood next to him. Through the periphery of his left eye, he watched her come to him. At once, his shaking hooves steadied and he became steadfast once more. His rage cooled when he saw the little smile she offered him. He accepted it without hesitation. She asked, then, “Would you mind it terribly if I stayed at the Downs? It’s out of the way and I’ve gotten too used to the open spaces of Ponyville to be able to study effectively in the city anyway.” Her little smile grew into a pleading grin, unrehearsed and, to him, simply adorable. Clegmane the Steadfast, bargained down by an attractive young unicorn mare. He gave a rasped, defeated chuckle which only served to widen her grin. To his credit, he thought, this particular (and peculiar) mare was the most gifted practitioner of magic he had ever met. Otherwise, he might have had to think about letting anyone stay at his place. Without looking back, Clegmane walked with Twilight to see the Princesses and take their leave. The warhorse held no desire to glance over his shoulder, but took some pleasure in knowing that the sleazy mayor did not have his way. That idea alone was worth the fact that he had not yet purchased any groceries to stock the pantry in order to accommodate his newfound guest. Oh well, he thought. We have all day.

Orange pastels flooded the sky above Oignon Downs. Clegmane reached out with his magic and turned the doorknob that lead into to his old home. Around him, a solar system of grocery bags and bundles of other objects orbited, wreathed in the glow of his aura. Ugh, he thought. I can’t believe how long it took us to ‘get a few things,’ he frowned. I think we can withstand another dragon siege… and house refugees with all these so-called provision. He chided himself for complaining, though. Clegmane had a swollen deposit account from his years of service. And, having no one to spend it on, it barely even registered the day’s transactions. Regardless, he stepped aside and held his little planets steady as he nodded in Twilight’s direction. With a returning nod, she and her own system of bundles silently drifted past him and into the main foyer. He followed her into the house and closed the door behind him. Gently, he set all of his bags down. He wondered why Twilight had not done the same. When he glanced at her, he figured out why. Her mouth hung open and her expression, much like her mentor, was nigh unreadable. Or, at least it would have been unreadable if her eyes did not betray the wonder they held.

“Wow,” Twilight managed to eventually say.

“Yes, Miss Sparkle, it’s a little older than what I’m sure you’re used to and not to mention that it is a bit of a fixer-upper.” Shut up, Clegs, you’re talking to too much. “Not to mention that I only just moved in—”

“It’s beautiful.” Twilight softly interrupted him, her violet eyes wide wonder.

Clegmane felt his ears twitch. Did she really just compliment this old ragged house? He continued to stare at her as she graced the foyer with her approving gaze. He shifted uneasily and offered a glance back towards the full bags sitting at his doorway. At once, he cleared his throat, stirring Twilight out of her stupor. “Perhaps, Miss Sparkle, we should get this food into the pantry before it decides to spoil on us.” He allowed himself to chuckle lightly as she glanced back at him, the wonderment not quite leaving her eyes.

“Oh, right.” Twilight blushed as she levitated her share of the bags and he instinctively trotted past the grand staircase and into the hallway at its the left. Clegmane did the same in carried his charge into the kitchen after her.

The Downs had been all but abandoned over the past decade. It was only during Clegmane’s rare times off duty that he would take that time to visit the empty manor. Only then, did it receive any measure of attention or care. Often, he was alone, with nothing but the vastness of the manor’s halls to accompany him. During these sporadic visits, his presence was often wreathed in silence; save for whatever noise he was producing at the time. Today, however, was not one of those days. For the first time in many years, the halls filled with laughter, the din of voices, and the warmth of the familiar. Clegmane sat at the head of the long table within the dining hall. With empty plates and used cutlery about him, he sighed with satisfaction. A great deal of that satisfaction was given by the meal that he so enjoyed. But, a significant amount of that satisfaction had been given to him not by food, but by the company that shared in its consumption. Normally, an honored guest of the Oignon Downs would be offered the seat opposite to him at the opposing head of the table. Miss Sparkle, much to his surprise, had respectfully declined such a seat in favor of placing herself at his right hoof. It was something, she said, about not having to talk over ten chairs across the room. Clegmane did not object. Eventually, their conversation withered, though Twilight’s smile lost none of its warmth. She looked onto him for a long, silent moment and still her smile did not wane. Clegmane realized that he was doing the same.

“So, tell me, Sir Clegmane the Steadfast,” Twilight sighed, resting her head on her crossed hooves. “How does a senior officer of the Royal Guard also pass for decent chef?”

“Mess duty will teach you a thing or two about how to handle one's self in the kitchen, Miss Sparkle.” She giggled. At that, Clegmane ushered forth his levitation spell and from a nearby cabinet, pulled an aged bottle of wine. As he brought it to his hooves, he wiped the layers of dust from its label and read, “Château de Chassefilli.” He scrutinized the date printed on the bottom of the label and said, “Fifty-four. Good year.”

“My, my, Sir Clegmane,” said Twilight. “An officer and a gentlecolt, a cook, a speaker a foreign tongues, and a wine connoisseur.” She clicked her tongue and continued, “Quite the curriculum vitae.”

Clegmane levitated the bottle between both of them and Twilight nodded in approval, raising her glass. As he poured the dark red fluid, it's sharp scent wafted into the air. He spoke once more when both of their glasses were full. “I would hesitate to call myself the speaker foreign tongues, Miss Sparkle. And, I honestly know little else about wine other than reading a label and discarding the bottle when it's empty.” She giggled again and for he levitated the glass before him and she did the same.

“To your new school, Miss Sparkle.”

“To our new school, Sir Clegmane,” Twilight corrected.

Fair enough, he thought.

The soft ting of their toast complemented the strong scent of the wine.

Night fell quickly over the Downs. The moon peeked its rising face out over the mountains, shining its pale light upon nearby Seasaddle. Clegmane stood alone upon the second floor balcony overlooking the Pintocific. Despite the majestic view that spread out in front of him, Clegmane’s thoughts drifted back inside where he left Twilight to her studies and to the creation of a syllabus that she intended to instruct from. She was shaking when he left her. Maybe the wine will help calm her down, he wondered. But, not too much-she needs to be in prime condition for the big day tomorrow.

What about you, old-timer? Need more wine to convince you to go back in there and forget about this beautiful scenery? Clegmane ignored his own quip and rubbed the flesh beneath his eye patch. Damn it, he cursed. The Doc told me not to rub it, but Seven Tartari, it’s irritating!

“Does it hurt?” a small voice carried along the gentle oceanic breeze. Clegmane turned all the way around, given the new blind spot to see Twilight standing in the doorway.

He sighed heavily and replied, “No, it doesn’t. Itches though.”

“That’s just the healing process,” she remarked plainly. “It’ll pass in a few days.”

“Only a few days?” Clegmane quietly scoffed. “I just want to numb half of my face and call it a night.”

“Oh, I know you’ve dealt with worse, Clegmane.” Twilight chuckled hollowly.

He yielded. “Yes, Miss Sparkle, I have.” Then there was silence.

Clegmane watched as Twilight blinked and her brow furrowed. Uh-oh, he thought. “Earlier today, after the meeting with the Princesses, you called me Twilight. Why resort to formalities?”

Resort? Clegmane blinked, thought Twilight continued, “I’ve let it slide until now, but do I need to remind you that you are more than welcome to call me Twilight?”

“I understand, Miss Sparkle.” Clegmane steeled his face, preparing for Sisters know what wrathful chest he had opened.

A fire ignited in her eyes then. Clegmane took a step back, feeling the heat of her blood as it seemed to boil over. Was that smoke I saw just now? He wondered.

“Is that so, Sir Clegmane the Steadfast?” Twilight shook with frustration. “You do not take a mare into your beautiful home, make her dinner, treat her to wine and then refuse to call her by her first name as if that’s how it’s supposed to be!”

Clegmane narrowed his good eye and regarded his guest levelly. “And how is it supposed to be, Miss Twilight?”

“Just call me Twilight, Clegmane.”

“As I recall, Miss Twilight, you had forsaken a five-star hotel to follow me here and, as a guest in this house and as the Princess’ designate, one would think that you would have the manners to abide by the housemaster’s wishes.”

A flicker of flame sparked to life at the base of Twilight’s tale and mane. “Follow?” she seethed indignantly. “You could have refused, you know?”

“I could have, yes. Somehow, I doubt it would have stopped you.”

“Then I guess you don’t know me as well as you think you do, Clegmane.”

“I never pretended I did, Miss Twilight.” Clegmane sighed. “You’re a total mystery to me, which is probably why—” He stopped.

“Why… what?” The flame died in Twilight’s mane and tail, the fury in her eyes replaced with their familiar academic hunger. Clegmane breathed heavily, relieved at the lack of apparent spontaneous combustion.

“Never mind.” Clegmane looked away and turned to face the ocean once again.

“Clegmane…” he could feel her reaching out to him.

“Please, Twilight,” he whispered, his good eye stung against the gentle oceanic breeze. Silence was all that he received in return, but he could tell that Twilight was just standing there, watching him. Then, something struck him and the sting vanished. “We’re have a visitor.”

A sharp knocking at the front door startled Twilight. Clegmane gently brushed past her and drifted through the threshold and down the stairs toward the front door. As he opened the heavy wooden portal, a tall figure met him. Dark fur, webbed wings and amber eyes met his own. Silver armour shone in the moonlight and gleaming white fangs smiled at him. The creature offered a crisp salute and Clegmane twitched, quickly stalling himself before he returned it. He sighed and said, “There is no need to salute me, soldier.”

The Night Guard flashed another smile and replied, saying, “You will always be our Captain, my Captain. Shining Armour sends his regards and admiration.” Clegmane slowly nodded as the guard handed him a message from his saddlebag. It was a white piece of rolled parchment, bound by the Royal Seal of the Pony Sisters. “For the Element of Magic, sir,” the guard reported. “I was informed that she was bunking here for the evening?”

Clegmane noticed and did not appreciate the glint in the Guard’s eye. He eyed the messenger, who began quickly straightened up and extinguished the glint. He winced when Clegmane took a step forward, his nose pressed against the young guard’s. “Lock your assumptions down, Private. Miss Sparkle is an honoured guest and esteemed colleague in this house, understand?”

“Sir, yes sir!” the guard squeaked. Clegmane took the scroll from the messenger’s quivering grasp and stepped back.

“Thank you, Private. To your other duties.”

“Sir!” The guard offered another salute, which Clegmane again did not return. With a burst of air, the guard took off and returned to Seasaddle and to Clegmane figured was going to be a long shift.

“What’s that?” Asked Twilight who teleported down to him in a flash of light.

Clegmane watched the guard leave, but nonetheless passed the scroll to her. “Message from the Princess.”

“Oh!” Twilight gasped and greedily took the scroll from his aura. Clegmane felt electricity course through his spine and heard her shudder as well. Slowly, he closed the door and listened to Twilight recite:

“Dear Twilight: Hey, it’s Spike, writing back—Clegmane, Spike wrote back!” she exclaimed happily.

“Hm.” Clegmane replied.

Twilight read on, “I’m sorry that it took all day to get back to you, but I had to gather the girls, since we’re all busy… you know how it is. Plus, things have gotten a little… off here. Anyway, I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. I’m writing this as AJ, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash are here to congratulate you on your success! Naturally, we’re all surprised and happy for you. AJ and I wish that we could have you back sooner, but we can always have the engagement party later on. Or, as Pinkie suggested—HITWILIGHTIT’SPINKIEPIEWENEEDTOCOMEVISITANDHAVEADUALCONGRATULATIONSPARTY—Sorry, Twi, but this is the seventh draft and Pinkie will not be contained, so just ignore that outburst. So, instead of waiting for you to come back, we’re all headed out to see you and help in any way we can, plus maybe throw our celebration there by the ocean? AJ really wants to see it, since she’s already seen the Coltlantic by Manehatten. So yeah, a big ‘Hi!’ from all of us, and a big ‘See you soon!’ as we’ll all be arriving together early this week via Pony Express.

Best of luck to you and your new school! It’s all for a good cause.

Love,
Your friends.”

Twilight finished reading the letter and Clegmane watched as a wide grin spread across her face. “My friends are coming here! Yes!” she squeaked. “Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!” She began mirthfully bouncing around in happy little circles about the foyer. Clegmane could not resist the urge to smile, even if it was only slightly. Twilight appeared to be too joyous to notice anyway, he figured.

Quietly, he ascended the stairs and was sure to grab the unfinished bottle of wine on his way up. When he returned to the balcony, he raised the bottle up and turned it over, allowing a steady stream of wine to pour out onto the grass floor below. To your health, my love. Clegmane glanced up at the sky and brought the bottle to his lips. The breeze turned up from the surrounding fields, carrying with it the subtle scent of onions, which caressed his nose. He ran a bare hoof through his dark, tussled mane, running the tip of his hoof around the band that held the eye patch firmly against his face. I’m not quite there yet, so, please be patient. Something nipped at the back of his mind, telling him that she would have to be.

Not yet, Clegmane the Steadfast. You’ve got a program to run and a unicorn to protect. He frowned.

Smile, the winds whispered. Don’t let it fade from the world.

He shivered once, then shook his head. Without a word or a thought, he then turned to go back inside, leaving the empty bottle and the scent of onions behind him.