[Tuesday, 17 May 2016, The Equestrian 16th Day of Love.]

It had been ten hours since departing Ponyville. Much of which had been dedicated to sleeping; sleep that was well deserved.

Cadance lay in her bed, still awake, providing comfort to Cerb as he slept, surrounded by those who were brave enough to take on the mission of nursing him back to health.

Spitfire and Fleetfoot had more than transparent ambitions to woo the brave human who came to their lands. To what degree Cadance had yet to inquire, less she fully expose her own intentions. Regardless, the bravery they displayed in fighting Harmony made them more than adequate choices for Cerb to nurture into fine warriors when the time would come.

Thunder Glide was another such fighter. Not of the Wonderbolts, but she'd established herself well in the Solar Guard and proven herself essential as a Twilight Guard in the fight against Harmony as well. Her every bit of ferocity in combat and dedication to Cerb rivaled that of any other.

Then there was Rainbow Dash, who slept the closest to Cerb. Another who fought to protect Becky but now guarded Cerb as she had against the Timberwolves as only an Element. An Element who repelled Rarity away from doing further harm to Cerb and thus ensured he would stay his course to the Crystal Empire.

All things considered, fate had been kind to include Rainbow. Regardless, they all had many hours to travel before arriving at the Crystal Empire. Plenty of time to stay close to the man they all collectively found themselves drawn to.

"Emm?" Cerb groaned as he started to stir.

Slowly, his eyes opened, cautiously searching his surroundings.

"Good morning," Cadance warmly greeted Cerb. "I trust you slept comfortably?"

A bit astonished, though still too sore to move around, Cerb stayed where he lay over Cadence's legs. Despite having slept for so long, his strength was lacking.

"Yeah," he admitted with some weakened surprise. "It was just like… Just like I was with Rarity-"

His wilted shock turned to remorse, knowing how he, in effect, told the mare goodbye by not attending the dinner he was supposed to assist in hosting. That thought was only half of his realization as were, though.

“-and Fluttershy."

While contemplating what it all meant not to combat his nightmares when in the company of Cadance and Rainbow, as far as he could see, Cadance grew curious as well.

"You suffered the same exhaustion as your friends after Ocellus consumed your love… or at least the love magic that dwelled within you. You were only awake long enough to thank Ocellus and… tell us how you felt after that."

Cerb swallowed hard, trying to bury his emotions. There was a lot he still needed to digest, so Cadance went on to inform him of what he missed.

"After you passed out, Doctor Horse discovered us. He was livid, of course, but allowed me to take you to the train as you had requested. You… had a nightmare as my guard carried you on board."

Cadance's voice lowered as guilt began to seep in.

"I… didn't listen to what you told me. You were in such poor shape. It was already dangerous to move you, I couldn't risk you further injuring yourself."

She laid her fetlock over the side of his neck and stroked him gently, seeing how he was already starting to get worked up over his prior unconscious outburst.

"As soon as I held you and assured you, you were safe, you calmed down. None of the guards were injured, thankfully. Doctor Horse and Nurse Redheart were able to stitch you up and attach an IV… I haven't let you go since. We've all been waiting here with you to make sure you're taken care of."

Slowly, Cerb lifted his head enough to turn and see Thunder, Spitfire, and Fleetfoot all asleep. The fact they weren't crawling all over each other seemed odd. However, given his physical state, he figured it was for the best and let his head fall back into Cadence's hold.

Now, given that Cerb had been brought mostly up to speed, Cadance extended her wing to jostle Rainbow awake.

It took a few shakes for Cadance to realize that Rainbow was a stubborn sleeper. Then again, he did remember hearing that it was pretty accurate to her character.

Oddly enough, Cadance’s efforts somehow woke up both Thunder and Spitfire, but Rainbow was still out cold.

Cerb, entertained, and without asking, took his free hand to get the job done by covering both of Rainbow’s nostrils and her muzzle.

Rainbow fidgeted a bit before snorting and hacking until it forced her awake, huffing in surprise and annoyance.

"What's the big idea? Can't a pony sleep in-'

As soon as her eyes adjusted, she quickly changed her tune with a fear of a recurring problem that had been on display.

"Oh, shit. I wasn't talking in my sleep, was I?"

Cadance did her best to smile and ignore Rainbow's question, opting to stay on topic for the moment.

"Sorry to disturb your sleep, but Justin is awake and… I think it would be best if he knows all the details of what he missed while he was indisposed."

Rainbow gave a blank stare for a moment, wondering why she had to brief Cerb. She was, after all, the last one to make it to the train, only to remember that she wasn't the last who made it to the train to see Cerb.

"Oh… That."

She pushed herself up and tried to prepare herself, not knowing how Cerb would react. The fear she had gone too far was present in her tired voice.

After all, Cerb had already once proven at the hospital that even wounded, he could toss a guard around if his instincts took over. All the more reason to not appear as if she was hiding anything.

"Rarity tried to take you back last night, but she came when you were still unconscious and getting stitched up. She kept trying to pull you away. Not that she could, but… I ended up having to… throw her off the train."

Cadance pulled back from Cerb, knowing how the news was likely to affect him.

"Justin, I have to go back to the Crystal Empire, and I agreed to help you with everything I can… but I know how you feel about Rarity and Fluttershy. Even still, it was reckless to move you as we did, I wasn't about to risk you reopening your wounds again by allowing her to move you improperly. That being said, I cannot force you to stay."

Cerb didn’t move for a moment, trying to take it all in and what Rarity must have been trying to accomplish by chasing after him. Then, after nearly a minute of silence, he sighed and all but went limp.

"I'm not going back on my word. I relied too much on them… I left for them just as much as I did because of them. Besides, after all the trouble you guys went through to patch me up, it wouldn’t exactly be considerate to run away and injure myself all over again."

Knowing this could ruin everything, Cadance had to make sure Cerb was being honest with himself as well as to her.

"Justin, I wanted you to know so you can make the decision that is best for you. It's important that we be honest with each other, even if it's uncomfortable to-"

"I'm not changing my mind," Cerb complained with a grumble. "I've been in this situation before… And ponies are no different than people outside of the obvious. The majority of them don't really change. Especially when it matters the most, and they tell you to change instead. I've had that bridge burned before."

It would seem that scars on that heart may heal with time, but the lessons learned tend not to fade. Cerb would not be changing his mind any more than he was ready to move.

Rainbow, on the other hand, wasn't sure what to think.

"So, you're not, like, mad at me or anything? Because, if we're all being open and honest, I wasn't gentle when I threw her off the train."

She recoiled inward as Cerb's eyes fell on her, but at that point was too nervous to stop talking.

"I'm sorry, but what she did wasn't cool, it was cruel… She was your guardian and your special somepony. But she still left you alone in the hospital. Made you sleep alone."

Thinking about his hardships and prior struggles, Rainbow couldn't stop from getting a little misty-eyed.

"I mean? Come the fuck on… Even I stayed with Becky at night so she could sleep. We don't even know if Sword is dead, but Becky and I knew that if Rarity and Fluttershy weren't going to be here with you…"

Rainbow's eyes were now more than a little misty, and Cerb reached out to hold her hoof.

"Stop crying. I'm not mad at you or her. I'm just… It wasn't going to work out… Not everyone can stay with someone like me… It happens all the time."

"Not here," Cadance interjected, sounding both stern yet concerned. "You shouldn't take your mistreatment so casually. However… you do have rather firm control over your emotions, so you should be commended on that. In the meantime, since you are awake. Some routines are in order to start one's day."

Cadance extended a wing to flick Spitfire's ear, letting the mare know that she was aware the Wonderbolt was awake.

"Spitfire, if you would be so kind as to help Justin get comfortable in bed while Rainbow Dash lets the guards know that we are awake, I need some time to myself. And Justin, if needed, if you require assistance with the lavatories, the guards can assist. Or, if you'd prefer to wait, I shouldn't be too long… I hope."

While Rainbow slid off the bed, Cerb watched how slow and uncomfortable Cadence's movements were. It was only then that he remembered her long list of injuries, particularly her intestinal issues.

"Take your time… I just want to sleep right now. Everything hurts… But I'll make this up to you."

[Meanwhile, in Twilight’s room.]

Tending to the only human in need of round-the-clock care, Becky brought a straw to Sniff’s lips to help wash down his first dose of medication for the day.

“I still can’t believe you helped Cerb run away like that.”

Partially feeling guilty but too stricken by pain, Sniff sipped enough of the potent juice to swallow his pills, then spat the straw away.

“I made the right choice. Cerb was on the decline, and had it not been for everyone telling me what the fuck was going on when I was in my Harmony-induced coma, I wouldn’t have been able to figure out that Benny would have suck-started his forty-five.”

Furious, Becky slammed the glass down on the nightstand.

“You don’t know that!”

Unable to move, while his body still screamed from the stab wounds, Sniff’s temper spiked to near hyperventilation.

“Ben still isn’t over losing that kid on the boat, and you didn’t catch half of the conversations me and him had about fucking up with his ex. Had I known that was the cause, I could have helped him stay with his counselor. Or better yet, pay for a better one, but you know full goddamn well that losing Ocellus would have been one kid too fucking many. Hell, I wouldn’t be surprised if word got out and it started a whole new fucking war if the changelings ever found out.”

There was a lot Sniff had time to dwell over while in his coma, and he now had the chance to explain himself and the reasons behind his actions. Shame it had to be under rather hostile circumstances.

“It was the right thing to do for everyone… For fuck’s sake… Ocellus is probably about the same age as Mylee would have been had he not fucked up his engagement with Tiff. And frankly, I don’t care whether you agree with me or not.”

The heated argument was quickly pushing Sniff past his limits, and he turned his head away, hoping to calm himself, even if only slightly, if that’s all he could muster, given the pain.

“You all could have stopped this from happening,” Sniff grumbled angrily. “Justin was suffering… Inside and out, he was falling apart, and he would have torn himself apart the rest of the way with nothing to do and without even one of his girls to keep him from slipping… If not, he would have probably drank himself to death or find another way to destroy himself.”

Without further argument, Becky turned and stepped away to avoid acting on the urge to punch her patient.

“Then why send him away?!”

Slowly, Sniff turned his head back to Becky’s direction again, looking at her like she were an idiot.

“For the same fucking reason I didn’t let anyone tell you and the rest what he was going to do. You all would have stopped him and locked him in that fucking chair like he was in a hospice… You can’t just turn off that part of him, Becks.”

That was the truth, and finally, he could see Becky giving up her hostility. That, or she was accepting that her ideals would have never panned out because Sniff was right. Why else would she have sent Rainbow after Cerb on the train?

For Sniff, it was a sad reality that he had to break this down from his powerless position.

“You gotta accept the facts, Becks… We never took the fight out of Justin… Saving you? Meeting the rest of us? All we could do was point him in the right direction, fighting off all those other pricks over the years… He was never gonna be a builder like his dad or a planner like his mom… Too many run-ins with the cops to be one himself. He was lucky the Marines even took him in. Lord only knows what would’ve happened to him otherwise.”

Tired of the infighting, Sniff relaxed and let the pills allow his thoughts to drift as the pain ebbed away. His mind sadly remained locked on the aftermath of Cerb’s return from war.

“For Christ’s sake… He worked under the table as a bouncer when the Marines wouldn’t take him back… He either has to save the world around him or pick a fight with it… And then you stuck him in a fucking wheelchair again and took away what little control he had to lash out at the worst parts of the world he could safely bully back.”

Suddenly feeling more than just a little tired, a familiar sensation of his wilder days left him slightly numb and light-headed as the room began to spin.

“Did you spike my drink?” He angrily growled as he eyed his glass despite growing double vision.

Becky sniffed her nose clear, holding back what few tears she could.

“Yeah,” she unashamedly answered with a weary smirk and quivering voice. “Twilight said you barely got any sleep last night… So get some rest… Even if you piss me off, I’m still gonna take care of you. Whether you like it or not.”

Knowing the cocktail she had whipped up would be putting Sniff under any minute now, she gave a heavy sigh and swallowed her pride.

“Just like I should have done for Justin.”

Now extremely drowsy and feeling a little fantastic, Sniff lost his capacity to be angry.

“Ya did what ya could, Becks… Justin just… Hez still hurt’n. I juz… Cadence will take care ‘en ‘em so long az he thinks hez gonna fight again.”

The cocktail proved more potent than anticipated, Sniff was unconscious in a matter of moments, unable to continue any further arguments or apologies.

Becky turned to Twilight, who had been reluctant to step in between what little time she had promised to her medical friend. Now, though, Becky’s emotions were harder to hide, and more of the remorse was showing through.

“Sorry I wasn’t nicer to him… I’m… really mad everyone is leaving us… Still not sure if sending Dash off was the best idea… At least she won’t abandon him."

For all the bumps and emotional trainwrecks Twilight had suffered these last few days, she could emphasize and did what she could to console Becky.

“Not everyone is leaving. Justin needs to recover from his injuries. You and I both know that he’ll be safe with Cadance. I’m sure her and Dash will do more for him than we should have.”

There was still a discussion needing to be had with Rarity and Fluttershy, but they weren’t going anywhere, and the focus was on those who were. Thus, another friend Twilight had seemingly neglected came to mind.

“Kelly… Well, I haven’t had an opportunity to talk to Luna or Big Mac, but that’s for them to work out and I think this is more of a business trip for her anyway. Asbinsinia is a very safe place for her to visit.”

They were both in a moment of wanting, compelling Becky to lean down and give Twilight a much-needed hug.

“I’m sorry, Peter wants to leave, too. He belongs here with all of us.”

Try as Twilight did, her eyes still managed to fill with tears as she returned the hug.

“It’s my fault you three weren’t better protected. Now Peter is scared all the time, still being so close to the Everfree Forest. He can’t sleep because of it, which puts him in constant danger, and he’s not going to heal any faster because of it.” She hugged a little tighter. “I don’t want him to go, either.”

Pulling back from the hug, Twilight whipped her eyes and did her best to straighten herself out.

“Oof… Sorry… Umm… Could you please stay with Peter until I get back from the Castle of the Two Sisters? I’m afraid of what might happen when Trixie Rose tries to leave. And you should be much safer here this time. Even without Dash here, Shining will be nearby if you need anything… Unless you care to reconsider attending the ceremony at the embassy… There are those other than Fluttershy and Rarity that could use your support… We are all still friends, after all."

[Back on the train.]

The car was quiet, with only the constant rumbling of tracks passing underneath filling the cabin. Cerb stayed centered between Flatfoot's nest of pillows with Spitfire and Dash now at his chest.

Cadance had moved to her desk, busy trying to catch up on what little work she could. The many tasks of a princess had not taken a break in her absence, much to her frustration.

Along with other duties, Thunder entered the car with a food tray held in her wings. Unfortunately, in her short absence, Cerb had fallen asleep again.

"Cadance, could you wake Justin up? He needs to eat."

Rainbow sat up and wrinkled her nose, noticing another issue to address.

"More than that. Big Guy here needs a change of clothes and a bath. His seasons and citrus smell is getting a little too heavy on the nose."

Cadance pushed herself away from the desk, welcoming the distraction.

"Calm down, both of you," she said with a hopeful smile. "It's high time we give him a checkup. Rainbow, Spitfire, would you both pull back the covers. Gently, mind you. No need to startle him."

A sudden clatter echoed through the room, jostling Cerb from his sleep. He immediately reached out at the first thing he could grab. A terrible vibe of danger encompassed the room from the abrupt awakening.

"Ahh!" Rainbow's voice shouted, having been fiercely grabbed by the foreleg in Cerb's firm hold.

Cerb held still for the moment, not letting go of Rainbow, breathing heavily as if caught in the middle of a brawl. After a moment of silence had passed, Thunder tilted her head down and began to pick up the spilled food tray.

"Sorry… Your breakfast slipped. I'll clean it up."

Cerb finally released his grip and let himself relax, allowing Rainbow to defuse the situation further.

"Easy there, Big Guy. You okay?"

A little embarrassed, Cerb sunk back into the sheets, still sounding drained.

"I'm sorry, Dash… I didn't hurt you, did I?"

Rainbow gently shook her hoof, feeling out any damage.

"Nah, I'm good. Gave me a jolt there though tough guy. Don't worry about it. We brought you something to eat and… we need to get you cleaned up."

After the long night and what appeared to be a high sun outside the window, Cerb's empty stomach finally caught up to him, along with the ripeness emanating from under his arms.

Tired as he was, he felt equally as uncomfortable in his own skin at the moment. At least for their sake, he would have to get up.

"Yeah… Gonna need some help to get moving."

Cadance stood again as Rainbow and Spitfire slowly brought Cerb upright, but another struggling to function was caught out of the corner of her eye.

"Thunder, dear. Let me take that for you."

In a snap, all the items were collected, stacked, and recovered in Cadance’s aura. In its place, Thunder's halberd was dropped in front of her hooves, one with a new order.

"Pick up your weapon and stand ready," Cadance softly instructed.

There was no hesitation in Thunder’s response, promptly rolling her feathers around the shaft and tensing up as the weapon was raised. Oddly, though, she held her breath until the end when she gave a firm, steady exhale through her nose.

“I stand ready, Princess.”

Cadance gave her nod of approval but did not appear to be impressed, even speaking as though Thunder had missed the point of this random exercise.

“Yes, you are. But tell me… How much did that hurt?”

Thunder huffed under her breath, discomfort evident across her face, yet held firm in her stance.

“Nothing that I can’t tolerate.”

Again, Cadance nodded, closing her eyes as she rethought her question.

“I see… Now, lower your weapon to a low guard, and as you do, try to answer the question again. And I expect you to be honest with me, not tell me what you think I want to hear.”

Cerb lifted his head, now able to watch the demonstration.

The tip of the blade slowly dropped at first but quickly fell in short dips with each labored breath and grunt until the blade crashed to the floor. It was there that Thunder was able to answer, though it pained her to do so.

“It hurts a lot, Princess. But please-”

“Please, nothing,” Cadance quickly responded firmly. “The fact you can still stand is nothing short of miraculous, but you have more than answered the call. You need to rest, as we all do. You, as much as Justin and Fleetfoot, need to let your wounds heal."

The message was clear, yet Cadance could see the strong will in Thunder's eyes, though the mare's physical strength was clearly declining. Potentially her health would be as well, leaving Cadance to change tactics and sigh in borderline regret for what came to mind to resolve this unwanted conflict.

"From here on out, until you are deemed fit for full duty, you are not to leave Justin's side. When he eats, you eat with him and ensure he has his fill. When he bathes, you bathe and make certain his wounds are tended to. What he cannot reach, you will be his hooves, but you are not to exert yourself nor lift anything greater than any piece of his bedding. For anything else, myself, Rainbow, or Spitfire will assist."

Thunder didn't know if this was a punishment or a reward. It very well could have been either masked as the other, but Cadance had more orders to issue.

"You protected him once to your detriment… I will not allow you to do so again over something so trivial as carrying a serving tray when you are in no condition to do so. There is much work to do, and your expertise will be required away from us at times. You will be of no benefit to our cause if you strain yourself into collapsing."

Confident she had dealt with the matter, she turned back to Cerb.

"My apologies, Justin, but I must ask you to watch over Thunder Glide. While she may not be as injured, she is certainly just as stubborn. Even if for noble causes, you both appear to need supervision to keep your reckless tendencies to a tolerable level. I'm sure if I entrust her recovery to you while she tends to yours, you're both sure to keep each other out of trouble. If not, at least compensate for any further injuries while attempting not to burden each other."

Cerb turned his sad stare to Thunder, then back to Cadance.

"I'll keep her in line."

Having settled that matter, for the moment anyway, Cadance returned to tending to Cerb's needs.

"I trust you will, but for now, we all could use something to eat. We also need to get you out of those filthy clothes and apply some clean bandages."

Starting simple with what would be easiest, Cadance lifted the cover to Cerb's tray, only to reveal the jostled mess that remained. Though, even if it was presentable, it didn’t appear to be a meal that did not appeal to her standards for the hungry human.

"Well… perhaps Thunder's accident with your food was a blessing in disguise. It would seem my staff failed to understand that a bowl of grains and a mixed dish of apples and carrots would not suffice for a recovering human such as yourself. I'll be sure they come back with something more appropriate."

Now that the meal was scrapped, the next item on the list wasn't exactly a moment of vulnerability Cerb was ready for.

"I'm not feeling up for a whole scrub down at the moment. Could that wait until we are settled in at your place and maybe just do a quick towel bath or something?"

Rainbow, still propping him up, already knew the potential issue with the likes of the Wonderbolts currently in company.

"Uh, yeah. This isn't really the best place for that right now. You know how humans are about staying covered up in any place but a bathtub."

For Cerb, Thunder and Rainbow weren't a concern, but the situation with Cadance and Shining could be an issue. Then again, asking her to leave after Shining had already okayed her helping him with a bath only one day earlier, muddied up the proverbial waters.

Beyond that, it was hard not to feel at ease when she was around.

"Thunder and Cadance helped me wash up last time before going to the hospital. They’re fine."

Rainbow's cheeks went flush with red, and Cerb knew why.

"No-no. I was covered…" He turned his eyes to Thunder. "Well, for most of it anyway."

With that still missing context, Cadance was left ignorant to all the discomfort from Rainbow, but played along.

"Yes, Justin was persistent on not exposing all of himself. We mostly took care of washing what he could not reach himself."

With that cleared up, Rainbow was back to business.

"Right. Sorry… So, I guess take off what you can, and I’ll look you over like Becky showed me."

Cerb sat on the edge of the bed and had Thunder pull off his shirt.

The excitement was null and voided as soon as the blood that stained his clothes came to view. The further bruising and marred skin said a lot about how bad of a beating he had taken in the fight days ago. His inability to stand without Cadance’s help solidified the conditions they'd be working with.

"This hurts too much. Let me lay back down."

The physical inspection was over before it started, and Rainbow was without a clue about how to proceed.

"Oh, fuck. This is so much worse than after the first Timberwolf fight. Is it safe to try a flex test? How much can you even move your leg?"

Humiliated and too injured to sulk without ripping his back open, Cerb had to lean to his right on his arm extended out. His left arm; swollen, bruised, and ripped, was too stiff and battered to even work the cloth to cover himself. It might as well have been in a full cast for how little he could move it.

"Small steps, but it hurts all the time no matter what. The hole in my back just makes it worse. Fucking everything hurts."

It seemed like with each passing minute, Cerb’s overall condition was stiffening. Not only the damage done, but Rainbow could also see future damage caused from him having to deal with his immobility. Or even worse, his refusal to accept it.

Either way, he was now her responsibility as much as Thunder was liable for, less she fail her promise to Becky.

"Well, then. For now, your only priority should be recovering. The flex test we can do later when you're strong enough to stand. For now, a sponge bath. Then back to laying down until the food's ready."

Under other circumstances, the concept of a sponge bath would’ve made Cerb cringe, too many associations with senior citizens. However, Cerb felt especially gross and could already smell his stink getting worse. So, despite his discomfort, he knew that poor hygiene could end up as another infection and didn't resist.

"Yeah… Just don't scrub too hard."

[Elsewhere, at the border of the Everfree Forest and the Human Embassy.]

A small congregation had gathered near the treeline, the last few exiting the forest to join the rest. Celestia, Luna, Twilight, Aspen, Ember, Novo, and Rutherford departed from the security detail to escort Benny and Kelly to those waiting.

Chris with Starlight and Lumbermen, along with Applejack, stood on either side of Fluttershy and Rarity, both dressed in black dresses and veils. They all stood facing the forest until Benny took his place in front of them. Starlight moved next to Fluttershy, making them the center two ponies Benny was to address.

"My friends, I apologize for this not being the memorial service either of our two fallen friends deserve. The nature of their passing were sacrifices worthy of a day of mourning for all nations. Instead, our attendance is small. The obligations of those that wish they were here with us like King and Queen Abyssinia who are with Gruff, and those who are not well enough to join us or are tending to them, has left only us. Beyond that… we are bound to secrecy, and no remains to dignify with a proper laying to rest."

Ashamed of the insultingly pitiful service, Benny lowered his eyes slightly as Fluttershy again started to sob.

"They deserve better because they both gave more than any of us and others they leave behind. But it's not what we leave behind for them that matters the most. It's that we continue to protect everything they fought for so that they did not make their sacrifices in vain."

Fluttershy's sobs grew to outright crying into Rarity's shoulder, prompting Straight to break down into sobbing as well, leaning into Chris for support. It was as to be expected, but it didn't make the job easier for Benny.

"I never had the chance to get to know Discord, but Trixie and I were lucky enough to share some time together. She wasn't the pony most thought her to be. She was conceited and boastful, but she was also kind… Too used to being alone, which I think made her gracious for the friends she had among us. And perhaps it was that friendship we shared with her that gave her the constitution needed to save us. For which, I'm certain we all will be eternally grateful."

With so little time given ahead of this, and even less time remaining, Benny looked to Starlight to share a few words. Instead, Chris kept his bandaged hand resting against her and apologized silently with a somber shaking of his head to ward off the still unspoken request.

That left Fluttershy, who was in no condition to speak through all her sobs and blubbering she faintly was able to restrain. Thankfully, Kelly gave Rarity a nudge and stepped up to be the new shoulder to cry on so at least one pony close could say something of value on Fluttershy's behalf.

While usually one for attention, but not one to dwell on others' misery, Rarity faced the small audience, focusing on Fluttershy.

Not many honestly had been emotionally invested in Discord enough to be brought down like Fluttershy was over his passing. She was sadly the only mare who mattered in this regard.

"Ahem… Discord was a rather confusing… Well, I would say friend, but I don't think I ever gave him his due justice to grant him the opportunity. I thought what he was, how he chose to be, was too dangerous. It was Fluttershy who saw that there was something greater within him. A greater good he could offer and find peace with if…"

She sunk low in her posture. The moral lesson having been one they both were now suffering from after not properly learning the simple practice.

"If only some creature would be so brave as to accept him as he was. So that he may have found the willpower to accept such kindness. To truly be a friend. To take his misunderstood talents and turn them into something helpful and wonderful. To become more than just a friend… One who would be willing to give their life for those they cared the most about. No matter the objections or knowing that… their determination to protect us would still hurt us by accepting the dangers."

For a moment, Rarity grew quiet, eating her plate of crow, which had stewed in the mess she made. Seeing how it made her feel lesser for her choices and how she treated others left a bitter taste of remorse she felt. More so, she felt worse now than Fluttershy and Starlight.

It was then she started tearing up.

"I feel terrible for how I viewed Discord and Trixie. I held grudges instead of offering a proper hoof. I should have tried harder, like Fluttershy and Starlight, to find the good in them. I should have accepted their faults and been somepony they could have trusted more. Maybe then… perhaps things could have been different. Perhaps had more of us been stronger and wiser to learn from our past grievances, to give more than receive, we could have stood by them to be their support so they could still be here with us."

In full agreement, Rutherford bowed his head with respect, letting out a heavy snort.

"Never again," he firmly asserted. "No more doubts for good creatures. We all friends. Discord and Great and Power Trixie prove they best friends to all. We not make same mistake."

Quietly, Luna took to Rarity's side, laying a wing over her shoulder to show her support.

"Friends. This battle for our freedom came at a great cost. Not only have we lost two great allies but dear friends as well. It is shameful that we cannot go public with their sacrifices, but the world is not ready for these harsh realities.”

Looking over the small congregation, Luna’s heart sunk lower as Benny’s words from earlier had etched out the underwhelming setting.

“Harmony has taken much from us. We know not the toll, but we will never forget these two. As such, to commemorate the fallen, a monument will be built at the Crystal Ring, which now protects us. It will always be open for all of you to visit once completed.”

From within the small gathering, Kelly raised her voice loud enough for all to hear but tame enough to let Fluttershy and Starlight know that she was speaking primarily to them. Even if Fluttershy had her face buried in Kelly's chest and Starlight was a few feet away, the delivery was clear.

"It's good to remember them and all the good times you shared together. And you can never put on any of the blame for their choices on yourself. Right or wrong, even if you try to reason out why it wouldn't make sense, you can't change their minds in retrospect. But one lie I won't tell is that one day the pain will go away. That pain is there because you love them. Without that love, there is no pain… But the pain will fade and become easier to manage."

Fluttershy's heavy sobs began to dwindle as she pulled away to wipe her eyes, taking in everything Kelly had to say.

Part of Kelly wanted to be angry with Fluttershy, but more of her understood the terrible choices one can make when the fear of losing a loved one consumes you. Instead, she hoped some more kind words would help to get over this rough patch of grieving, and she bit her still partially split lip before speaking again.

"Just like our bumps and bruises, or any injury, we adapt and heal, knowing they wouldn't want us to suffer in misery just because they're gone. They'd want us to be happy and safe, just as they did when they were still here."

On that happier note, Lumberman could see that with no practice or proper planning, on top of no religious ceremony to be performed, this was an appropriate place to stop.

"What Kelly said is right, and while none of us are certified grief counselors, I know I'm just about always open to talk to. So if anyone needs to talk, you know where to find us."

The message was understood, and Celestia stepped in front of the crowd to finalize the makeshift event.

"While I wish there was more we could do to show our appreciation to memorialize those lost, this will conclude the services. And while many of us have further business to attend to abroad, Benny has been kind enough to offer up his home.”

Just in view, a good distance away from the tree line, Celestia stared at those who chose not to crowd the event in the backyard of Benny’s home.

“Drinks and a small spread will be available for those who wish to partake."

[Back on the train.]

Cerb sat in only a robe and his boxers. His shirt was ruined, his pants filthy, and his boots and socks stunk. His boxers were no better off, but humility and questionable doubts of motives kept them covering him.

However, no ill intentions had presented themselves while in the care of the many mares. His doubts and insecurities began to weigh too heavily upon his conscience.

"Hey, girls? I just wanted to say thanks for everything, and I'm sorry for being so quiet. I don't mean to be uneasy around you. It's just that after being so close to Fluttershy and Rarity…"

He trailed from his thoughts, unsure of how to explain all the misgivings and questioning their intentions. It was frustratingly difficult to put to words when he wasn’t even sure what Thunder might have known or Rainbow thought of him.

Thankfully, Cadance was there to soothe his concerns.

"You have no need to apologize. We know that your wounds of the heart are just as severe as those any doctor could stitch or mend. You've been through so much, and when you needed them most… we stepped in to do what they would not. But that might not be enough to calm your concerns that it could happen again."

Seeing an opening to express some thoughts of her own on the matter, Thunder finished disposing of the towels and stood closer to Cerb.

"Justin, I've been able to watch you more than most since the night you brought Kelly back to your embassy. You were a curious anomaly that became my greatest challenge. Then, during the fight with the Timberwolves, your strength and virtue to save my fellow guards earned you my admiration. And when I discovered that it was your honor and dignity that showed me mercy from combat, that there were lines you would not cross, you had my respect."

She extended her wing to hold over his right hand and sat before him. Vulnerable in her own way, she looked up to him to finally open up.

"I'm not anything that Fluttershy or Rarity were to you. I never earned that right or dared to believe I could be so close to you as they did. I can't even fight off your nightmares with the best of my efforts. I don't even have orders to be here now. All of us are here because none of us took you for granted. We know Equestria needs you, so we wanted to do the right thing and stand by you as you stood by us and finished the fight."

Looking back at Thunder, listening to her speak from the heart, he was reminded of her last words in the fight against the Echoes.

"I won't regret these scars on my back if you can finish the fight."

In the heat of battle, Thunder had thrown herself in harm's way to shield him. The soon-to-be scars on her back were there because she chose to save him. A fellow warrior, willing to give it all to save her brother in arms… just to be close to him.

Now, here she still was, pushing herself just as he had for what she believed in.

…which was him.

That brought about a change in Cerb. He was indebted to these mares. Each had contributed in their own way, though some more than others, and Thunder stood out in particular for the moment.

"I believe you, but you need to stop doing so much. You're as bad as me for not resting enough, so come on. Help me get comfy again."

With his only good hand, Cerb tightened up his waistband and started to crawl back to the center of the bed.

Thunder followed him by the side, watching him and waiting for whatever he asked for. To her surprise, he tapped the empty spot next to him.

"Do you want another pillow?" She asked blankly.

Cerb huffed a little laugh and grinned.

"No. You need your rest, too. Get in bed."

A bit taken back, Thunder's ears perked up.

"Oh. I'm not that-"

Ignoring her excuses, Cerb tapped his hand again. This time Thunder fully accepted the request.

"If that's what you want."

Slowly, Thunder hopped up and laid down to face away from Cerb. Then, surprised again, Cerb reached out and pulled her against him.

He kept his strong arm around her barrel, letting his bare chest press against her exposed back.

"I know how much you all like this. Hopefully, it will help you feel better so
you can heal faster."

It was so sudden, Thunder hadn't anticipated such a response from Cerb. The heat from his body, the strength coursing through his arm, and the warmth from his reciprocated emotions, she could feel them all. Safe, comforting, welcoming, and dulling the pain from the many puncture wounds sewn shut came from every touch she felt from him.

As shameful as it was, he needed someone to be close to. Lonely hearts crave company, and for now, he had more than ample amounts of quality company while holding her.

"Thank you for always answering the call, even when I didn't know I needed saving."

Flattered and perhaps hoping for the impossible, Thunder hugged her forelegs around Cerb’s arm. Even if she didn’t believe she deserved more, she'd at least thought she had earned this.

"It was an honor… And any good Lioness knows to take care of her pride."

[Elsewhere in Zecora’s hut.]

Deeper into the Everfree Forest, Zecora had kept herself busy with the many arduous tasks a potion maker could have. Specifically, a new challenge that had presented itself gave room for more long-term endeavors that had kept her in her hut.

"The flesh has been made weak, while the will remains strong. A new remedy is needed to keep the blood where it would belong. Closing a wound for our friends should not require a suture. A quick fix for wounds should make a more promising future."

Sunburst, brought along for the task as he had unexpectedly been left behind, was struggling to keep up with this new mad science.

"I don't understand why this is proving to be so difficult. Harmony allowed us to conjure up potions and spells to heal many of our wounds in the past. Why would she leave out the knowledge that could save lives from the likes of what she was used to heal Kelly with?"

Attempting another mixture, Zecora kept her mind trained on new methods of potion brewing.

"I have not been granted the truth. There are secrets even too dangerous for either of us to keep. Unsolved mysteries involving our mortality. Lives taken ruthlessly, and graves dug too deep… Or that's what I could gather from what little Becky could tell me. More than likely, in time, we both shall see."

Having been on foal sitting duty every day, that was still more than Sunburst had been told earlier. Still, he knew things were bad.

"Zecora, I think we're getting in over our heads here. Shouldn’t our focus still be helping Becky?"

Undeterred, Zecora sprinkled a blue powder into her brew. She observed as it blended in, sizzling with a purple mist rising from its beaker.

"Harmony affected us so only our wounds would be superficial at best. Without Harmony and her magic, we bleed just like all the rest. But I've come to believe the human's touch should not be overlooked or left amiss. It could have been our violent destruction, yet they chose to give us protection and bliss."

There was a connection Sunburst was starting to understand but couldn't put all together.

"You think the effects of Harmony and humans are related?"

As quick as Zecora was with her rhyme schemes, there just wasn't the time needed to be clever when her focus was stained as it was.

"You know how wonderful a human's touch can be. From a simple hoof to a handshake or a hug, it is better than any pony can deliver. From the stories I've been told and the slap to Tea Love's face first received gave me a hint of something more. The same can be said for removing the spell that made us so durable and capable of tolerating injuries that our humans cannot. I believe that Harmony numbed us to all sensations. Our access to magic and special talents was essentially Harmony's version of alcohol. Further numbing us while making us believe… Who knows what all she could have had us believe."

Frustrated from having to be so blunt, Zecora scooped up a ladle and began to fill a series of bottles.

"I suffered Timberwolves trying to tear me apart. I remember their wooden teeth marring my skin. Tearing away the fur. My bones pressed and nearly broke in their maws… But I suffered nothing compared to Applejack and her splinters. Even if she refused to show it at first, some part of Harmony’s given protection had been taken away."

She dropped the ladle and began to cap the bottles.

"I've shaken many hooves and shared many warm embraces with friends here and family I left long ago. None of them are like the comfort a human can bring. And more than that, they can unlock..."

That last comment almost slipped, but out of caution, she held her tongue for the moment. The confessions from Fluttershy allowed for many theories to arise in the past few days.

"Regardless, one such human stallion has been cast free to any mare wise enough to win him over. Justin not only deserves better than the treatments currently available. If I can heal his wounds, I can learn more about curing Becky. Now…"

She stepped away from the cauldron and bottles, following a path for Sunburst to view one she held in her hoof.

"I need a unicorn's magic to enhance these potions. These would do well for treating simple scrapes, but magic does little for our friends. They will require further enhancements to affect one resilient to magic as Justin. Are you willing to help me to these ends?"

Sunburst, eyeing the vile carefully along with his options, contemplated briefly before looking back to Zecora with an honest question. Potion-making had never been his forte. Then again, he’d always had an eye for magic, no matter what form it came in.

“You’re a lot easier to understand when you speak normally. Why do you rhyme so much if you don’t need to?”

Zecora’s whole posture frumped at the question, but since the provided response didn’t come as a no, she gave into answering.

“The Zebra race has been said to be unable to practice magic. I refused to be restricted and learned many magic potions and enchantments in time. But still, all the strongest spells are said to be spoken in rhyme… However… I believe the humans may offer a much stronger alternative.”

Again, she raised the vile, speaking more sternly as she knew the unicorn's own passion for the mystic arts.

“We fell for Harmony’s trickery and lies once, but never again. We are free, and this is where our new adventure will begin.”

Author's Note

So begins the second arc (which I was misspelling as "arch" for months). There is already a lot going on, and even more getting filled in that was left unmentioned in the first arc. Where will it all lead, and what new revelations await our heroes?

Perhaps we'll get a good idea of what to expect in the next release, Chapter 02: What No One Wants.

Also, acknowledgments to my story support:

The Fan Without a Face:

Editor for Chapters 01.

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