Blue Lightby Shadow_ColtChaptersFitting inShieldHelplessFitting inI’ve found that this journal yearns for a certain type of story. I’ve got one for it, one that makes me wish I hadn't joined the guard. You don’t realize what you’ve got till it’s gone, you don’t know who your friends are till they're gone. I almost lost two and I still wonder if it’s my fault. We got woken up early as we had to go and inspect the area where two of our scouts were found dead. There wasn’t much abnormal about this; we have scouts go missing at least once a month; they usually get careless and walk into enemy territory. We didn’t think much about it until there was a frantic knock on the door. I went to open it but I was cut off. “It’s Cadance, let me get it.” “You got it boss.” he opened the door to a panicked and scared Cadance. “Hey honey what’s wrong?” “Don’t go! Have a different group go!” “This is my job, I have to go.” “What if you get hurt? What if you die? What will I do?” He embraced her in a hug. “I will always come back to my Cadance.” “Cadance if it's any consolation I’ll make sure he comes back unharmed.” yeah I screwed up on this remark. “Thank you.” They kissed and she walked away saddened. Shining turned around and quickly looked at me with a sad worried face. Did he know it was going to happen? How? “Are we all ready?” We all said yes and we were off. About an hour or two later we were at the approximate location. “Shining, want me to get an overhead view?” “Yeah, go for it.” I went to go just under the canopy of trees but once I made it over the bushes lining the road I knew we were screwed. Hundreds of eyes peered at me, their light green horn showing just above the brush. “You stopped, what is it?” “Were F’ing screwed!” “You’ve got eyes, what do we need to do?” “Two circles one inside of the other and walk back the way we came.” “Everyone does what he says!” They formed two circles and we slowly walked. I knew they could see me. I assumed they could see the group but I waited to move from my spot. “What are you doing?” “I’ve got their attention you guys get out while I have them!” “We don’t leave anypony behind!” “You either leave me behind or were going to have a lot of dead guards.” “Alright let's get out!” “We weren’t far into the forest so it didn’t take long for them to get to the edge . When the group made it to the edge they tore through the brush lining the road it was just a black mass headed at the group. But they stopped. “What the hell is that!” I turned around quickly to be met with a pony similar to the pictures of Shadow only he was wasn’t Shadow “Rusty!!” Shining yelled from the group. Shadow's journal had writing in it of the day he died. I don't know how Shadow did it but with the way his journal is I’m sure there was some mind play. “So you’re rusty.” I changed to my dark colors. I don't know why but it felt right. “And you’re Crimson Shadow.” “I am you’re the prick that killed your own brother.” “Yep, I see I need to finish something.” He blew through me pushing me to the side. I almost fell out of the air but caught myself. He was headed straight for shining. “Shing watch out!!!!” He shot up a shield but it wasn’t strong when Rusty made contact it shattered like glass. He pinned Shining to the ground and the guards that were around shining had been dazed by the shockwave of the shield breaking. I charged Rusty with everything I had, knocking him off of shining and dragging him through the dirt. “You think you can stop my will! I’ll get you like I did shadow and so many others.” “I think I got you here!” “Look around you! I won this, you're no stronger than Shadow, I’ll weaken you like I did him.” “Have a fun time trying!” “Look around! No trying is to be done!” I looked over my shoulder he was right he had won those who could get up circled shining while the others laid in agony. I looked back at him. He was gone. It was one of those things so I killed it and ran toward Shining. “Shining!” there was no response from him but everyone around him looked up my best friend was at his side “What happened?” “That prick stabbed him!” I didn't see it but Rusty had gotten shining twice. “With what he had nothing on him.” “He dropped it when you hit him, it's whatever this is.” He held up a bright green horn, one of the ones that was found on those beasts. “Wait where did they all go?” “Ran off when you killed the one over there.” “We need to get him back now!” “You’ll carry him?” “Yeah.” They hoisted him up onto my back at the disapproving groans of Shining. It took us over two and a half hours to get back. I stayed at the back during the time to watch. When I made it in the Canterlot gates those who were standing took off their hats or looked down while others hugged. We kept going towards the castle the main front guards stood at attention and salute to the fallen a special salute done only when one has passed “Blue, make sure that Cadance and Twilight know.” “Taking care of it.” he ran off. I headed over to Dr. Whooves where shining could get help. “Dr. Whooves!” “What can I… Holy crap get him in here!” I rushed into the room he went into and put shining on the bed. I was finally able to get a look… Red that was the color everything was red. “You need to get cleaned up, do that and get back here!” I did as he said, making my way to the showers. “Musket!” it was Twilight and Cadance “I’m sorry I'm so sorry I tried believe me.” “We believe you, we know you wouldn’t just let this happen.” I started to walk away but was stopped “Wait! What happened?” “We made it to the spot but it was a setup Rusty had set us up he wanted to kill Shining!” “Wait, it was Rusty?!” “Well yes and no it was him who set it up but it was his minions that attacked us” “Minions?” I sighed in exhaustion. “Look, just go shower and get some sleep, we'll talk later.” “I have to come back after a shower.” “Go get some sleep you need it!” “I’m not coming back because I want to, I'm coming back because Doc told me to.” “We’ll tell him what you told us just go get sleep.” “I haven't told you everything. Look I'm going to get cleaned up then I'll be down there ok!” I left in a hurry. I was ready to get to sleep and they were holding me up. I cleaned up and headed back down there. “Doc you should see this!” “Wait, did that get him!” “Yeah in all the rush I forgot to show you.” “Danggit kid you should’ve told me!” He ran around the counter and grabbed 3 bottles and a syringe. “I didn’t know! I had forgotten so much had happened! Look, I'm sorry!” “Sorry won’t save him kid!” He turned to look at me. He had a concerned face and he started to speak but I cut him off. “If he needs it you come to me and only me!” He looked confused but understood what I meant after a second. “I wouldn’t let you.” “I wasn’t asking!” I left knowing I had made my point. I headed towards the barracks but was stopped by Luna herself! I know she knew about me but I never actually got to see her. “Musket are you alright?” “Umm… uh… yeah sure I’m fine” “You don’t look or sound like it.” “Well to be honest I'm a little bit nervous.” “What for?” “Well im talking to Princess Luna one wrong thing and well id rather not think about it.” “Don't worry, you're a royal guard if you ever need me. I'm usually around.” “Nice to know.” I started to walk away but she stopped me again. “What happened out there?” “Can we talk more later? I'm tired and just want to sleep.” She sighed but let me go on. I felt bad but I was in pain and severely exhausted. “Hey Musket, can you grab the ice and bottle of meds over there?” “When did you start taking medication?” I said as I gave him the meds. “I’ve had these for a long time. As far as I know they don’t expire. I've never had a use for them but today is a good use.” “You’re in that much pain?” “Well pain is an understatement.” He said as he lifted the cover on his leg. “Why haven't you gone to Doc for that!?” “He’s busy with shining, I'm not going to interrupt!” “That might be the best for both doc and shining.” “What do you mean?” “I don't want to talk about it, I'm going to sleep!” “Come on man, what's eating at you?” “Let it go.” “Man just take your pills and shut up!” “This is the most I’ve heard you talk since you got here. Whatever's eating at you is big.” “He’s dying Ace and it's my fault!” “It’s not your fault this happens he’ll be alright he always is.” “I bet you said the same thing for Shadow and here we are!” I was facing away from him when I said that but the whole room changed after I said it. The room was dense. I heard him get up and leave audibly limping the whole way. I rolled over to see where he was originally sitting. The ice was still in the bag but the bottle of pills was empty. Did he take them all? I must’ve fallen asleep because I woke up to being yelled at. “Come on, we have to go!” “What? What for?” “Large group of changelings spotted heading here!” I jumped up and put on my armor. I don't even know why they give us this stuff it doesn’t do much. “Wait, where's Ace? “We’ll talk later, we don't have time now!” he ran out and I ran out behind him. He was right that there were changelings but not a large group; maybe 20 of them. “Everyone stand down they won’t fight” They stopped about twenty feet away from us “Celestia, we come to make peace. There is a greater enemy among us, one that took our original group of seventy to what you see now.” “Who attacked you Chrysalis?” “They looked like us but with bright green horns.” “That’s what got shining armor.” “I’m sorry I know he meant a lot to you guys, he was a good fighter.” They acted like shining was dead. Was he? Had I caused him to die? I was broken from my thoughts by a sharp pain in my head i fell forward out of pain i heard commotion from both side but not for long everyone seemed to have calmed down in a few seconds. “Musket, are you alright!” “Yeah I'm alright.” I said as I painfully got back on my feet. “I’m sorry I don't know what caused this outburst. I came to make peace not attack.” my ached like nothing else. My vision was blurry but better than nothing. I felt like i was moving and i must have been. “Musket, are you sure you’re ok?” “Yes… no I-I’ll be fine.” “Get him to doc we can finish without him.” “I’ll be fine, believe me.” “That’s not a request Kick, that's an order take Musket to Doc.” Kick helped me along and i got the chance to ask him what happened to Ace. “What happened to Ace? he wasn't out there with us.” “Govend found him beneath the center tree in the gardens. He overdosed on some pain meds.” I stopped in my tracks. “What!” “Yeah no one knew he was that bad off.” “I don’t think he was depressed.” “What do you mean?” “Yesterday we were talking about shining and I made a comment about shadow. I didn't see him leave but when I looked over he was gone and the bottle of pills was empty.” “Why didn’t you tell anyone we could’ve saved him!” “Seems like I've had the effect of getting others killed.” “I don’t know if I want to hear more.” “The day Shining was hurt. I got so sidetracked with getting him help and following docs orders I forgot to give him the thing that hurt shining. When I did, Doc yelled at me and said I might have gotten Shining killed.” “Well he’s not dead but he’s not ok.” “I don’t think I'll make it much farther.” “What's wrong?” “I’m nauseous, my head hurts.” I must've collapsed as all I remember was his yelling. Author's Note Remember all of my stories are connected Shadows Go Cold (What started all my stories) Shining Armor Chronicles ShieldSo apparently Shining has a son I never knew about. Flash got hurt in a fight the day I got out of the hospital so much for 15 days free of the Abhor. Rainbow Dash came up with that name. She's pretty cool but she doesn't come around too much. They say she’s a good flier but they haven’t seen me fly yet. We’re supposed to get two new guys today Sky Raider and Copper Blade Shining wants me to get them that’ll go great. “Blue, I told you to get the new guys.” “Oh, sorry.” I hustled out and through the castle but I stopped when I saw flash. He had gotten hurt and lost vision in his right eye; he was still struggling to walk. “Hey flash you’re doing better.” “Hah, thanks kid.” I stood there for a second just thinking why did the world have to be this way, why can’t we just get along. I snapped out of it and ran past him to the front gates. I saw Copper Blade immediately all I could think was I hope I don’t make a fool of myself. “Copper Blade?” “I am. Who are you?” “I’m Blue Light.” “Well I'm looking for Shining armor.” “He sent me to get you.” “Ok.” “I still have to get one other guy.” We walked around a bit and I finally spotted a guy looking similar to Sky Raider. “Please tell me that's not him.” The guy looked like he drank 12 sodas before coming out here. We looked at each other for a second. “I think we should just not.” “Shining would kill me.” we made our way over there cringing the whole time “Hello?” “Oh hello, do you know where I can find Shining Armor?” “He sent me to get you.” “Ok cool. We walked back to the barracks. Raider didn’t shut up the whole time. “So what’s it like being a Royal Guard?” “You’ll see.” “Whoa she’s cool.” I looked to my left and saw Rainbow Dash. “We're almost to the barracks, let's hurry up.” We made it there quickly and Shining met them at the door. “Hello you must be the new guys.” “Yep I’m Sky Raider. I don't know his name. We haven't really met yet." Of course he talked first. “I’m Copper Blade.” “Nice to meet you two…” I started to get impatient. I wanted to catch Rainbow Dash before she left. “Do you have something you need to do Blue?” “Yeah.” “Go ahead.'' I ran to the courtyard where I last saw Rainbow Dash. I looked around but she was nowhere in sight. “Dang it I missed her” “Missed who?” “Ahh! Oh no one, don't worry about it.” “Come on who?” “Twilight.” “I’m just trying to help.” “Ugh I was looking for Rainbow Dash. She was out here a while ago.” “Oh she’s over there.” twilight pointed to the coffee shop. “Oh thanks.” I made my way over and tried not to act like a stalker. There was a line but I was able to get in right behind her. “I've never been here before, what would you suggest?” “Oh I didn’t see you come in. I like the medium frappuccino with two extra sugars, a shot of espresso, light cream, and caramel drizzle.” “The what?” she giggled “Don’t worry I'll get you one.” we waited in line and got our drinks “So why did you decide to be a Royal Guard?” “Honestly I had nothing better to do.” “I guess that works.” “This is actually a better drink than I expected.” “Glad you like it.” “Did you ever get to know Shadow?” her smile faded as she shifted in her seat. “Sorry, nevermind.” “No it’s alright I never got to know much about him, only what twilight sent in letters. He seemed like a good guy. I wish I came up here more often when he was alive. He seemed like a good pony.” “I didn’t get to know much. I wish I knew more. I mean he knew my name before I knew his.” “What do you mean?” “Apparently Shadow left his journal to me but he died before I became a guard. I don’t know how he knew me.” “That is weird.” She was getting uncomfortable so I tried to change the subject. “You can fly pretty well.” “Thank you. I've never seen you fly but I’m sure you can.” “It’s been a while you don’t need to fly as much in the guard.” “I’m going to teach some lessons for some kids later want to join “It’s a date… I mean a plan… I mean yes I'll join if you still want me to.” she laughed at my utter screw up but allowed me to join. “It’s not for another 30 minutes so take your time.” She got up. I assume to get ready I took some time finishing my drink and went back to the quarters. “Hey shining, can I get some time off for maybe four or five hours.” “Four or five hours! What for?” “Rainbow Dash invited me to help her teach some kids.” “You have a date with Rainbow Dash?” “It’s not a date!” “Hmm… ok sure whatever you say.” “So… am I free?” “Yeah go ahead.” I still had about ten minutes so I went to find her “Blue over here!” I turned to my left and Rainbow Dash is walking a small group of kids to the field “Hey so what exactly do you teach?” “Some of the kids needed general help learning to fly, others were learning tricks and things.” “Oh ok that’s cool.” “Today is the last day.” “Ah yes graduation.” “Pretty much it’s just going to be a showing off kind of day.” we made it to the field and took flight “Ok everyone, so today we’re just going to show off what we’ve learned. I have a friend with me today everyone say hello to Blue.” the kids said hello at least I believe that’s what they said. There was only about 10 minutes left in the ‘lesson’ so Rainbow Dash decided to show off her greatest trick, a rolling dive to the ground with an inverted lift she said. “I mean I get you’re like the best and all but are you sure?” “Yeah we’re good.” She went for it. We were pretty high up as she went for her inverted lift and she stopped and darted upwards. “Ok sorry about that due to some unnoticed issues i’ll have to cut class a little short.” she looked at me swallowing hard “Don’t go down there.” she whispered. “Why?” “You don’t want to see what I just saw.” “Let's get them back I need to see so I can report to Shining.” “You’d rather not see it but ok.'' We rushed them back to the courtyard and after making sure they were safe we headed back. “Was it really that bad?” “You’re on your own down there I won’t see it again.” We made it back to where she saw it. I went to the tree line and descended slowly. I didn't have to see. I could smell it. I was only 15 feet from the ground but against my better judgment I descended more. What I saw can have no description. I don't know how she held it in but I didn't know what was left of it was everywhere something had happened here and I wasn’t sticking around to find out. “Blue! Get up here! Quick hurry!” She said I flew up so fast whatever was down there with me got pushed away. “We’re going now.” We flew full speed all the way back. I kept up somehow. Maybe she wasn’t going full speed as she was afraid of leaving me behind. We landed the visible terror on our faces for all to see. “Are you guys ok?” A random pony said from across the courtyard. “Yeah we’ll be alright.” “Come with me back to the barracks.” she looked at me and nodded visibly shaken and in horror. We made our way to the barracks but I stopped her before we made it there. “He is going to ask you questions, do you want to do this?” her eyes welled up and she started to cry. I did my best to comfort her. “Look it’s ok you don’t have to, I'll just tell him what I saw and you can wait outside if you want.” she nodded and i went in while she stayed behind. “Shining, we need to talk now!” “Come into my quarters.” We entered and as he was shutting the door he saw Rainbow Dash. “What happened?” “We both saw something in the forest by the field near the courtyard. I would tell you to look for yourself but trust me when I say you don’t want to.” “Did any of the kids see it?” “No sir.” “Describe it.” “There is no description. What once was is now simply all over the relative area.” “You mean…” “Yes sir, I don’t know what would cause this or do this but yes.” “Could you make out who?” “No sir” “Color, cutie mark?” “The mark wasn’t visible. I think the color was black…” that's when I realized what Rainbow Dash ws talking about. Whatever did It was waiting, waiting for me to get just a little bit closer. “That’s not the right color, that was the color of what did it.” “I’ll send a team out.” “No, don't! It’ll just get them killed.” “Let me talk to Rainbow Dash.” “Shining, be careful, I don't think she’ll want to talk if she’s even still out there.” “I understand.” I walked out first where I was met with Rainbow Dash and Twilight. “Twilight.” “Could I ask you some questions if you’re alright with it?” Rainbow Dash nodded and Shining shut the door behind her. “Twilight I don’t know what could do that.” “Why did you make her go back?” “I didn’t make her. She could have stayed in the courtyard with the kids.” “Why did you need to see?” “I had to report it to Shining.” “You couldn’t have let her do that?” “She's too shocked and scared to talk about it. I'm sure what we saw was enough to if you had given him the book it would’ve been worsescar her.” “And yet you made her go back.” “I didn’t make her do anything!” Just my luck for Luna to come walking around the corner. “Yep, I'm getting fired.” Shining and Rainbow dash walked out. “Hey, what’s going on here?” Luna asked as she gave me the death stare “Rainbow Dash an Blue were in the field by the courtyard teaching some of the kids Rainbow dash went to do a trick and saw something in the forest. From what I gathered from Blue it was not a pretty sight and it’s no longer a safe place to send anyone.” “I’ll have to go see for myself.” “Luna! I understand you’ve probably seen plenty of terrible sights but this is one you’ll wish you never saw.” Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement. “Ok well according to Shining it’s something that might need cleaning?” “You’d be better off letting it rot away. I would feel bad but I don't think it's safe to send anyone over there both physically and mentally.” “Ok, I will trust you guys in this because I know I can trust you two. There’s still one thing to be settled though what was happening between you two?” “After Rainbow Dash saw the scene they took the kids to safety then Blue made Rainbow go back so he could see and report it to Shining.” “I didn’t force her to come with me. I'll admit i didn’t tell her to stay but I didn’t tell her to come with me either.” “He’s right, I did come on my own accord.” “Ok, I see no issues here then.” She walked away and I turned to Rainbow Dash. “You don’t think I made you come do you?” “No.” “Blue I’m sorry it’s just not normal for Rainbow Dash to go back to something that’s scared her this much.” “I understand.” Twilight left and Rainbow Dash started to follow her “Wait Rainbow Dash.” “You can call me Dash you know.” “Oh ok, lok if you want to talk I'll be here.” “That was my friend.” “I’m sorry.” “It’s okay at least they can’t feel pain anymore.” “You look like you could get some sleep.” “I can’t sleep after that.” “It doesn’t hurt to try.” “I have to get back to my place.” “Sleep here no one will bother you, it's not the first time a non guard has slept here.” “I don’t know.” “I’ll stay here, I have nothing else to do.” She finally decided to try and sleep, nothing much happened until the funeral. They held a funeral for Dash’s friend. I didn't learn until today that Rainbow Dash was a guard, well kind of she was more of a spy kind of position. We were allowed to bring a friend if we wanted but I didn’t think it would be right to take Unyielding Shield. Me and I have gotten along really well. I figured he would be wary around us but he seems to get along. “Blue!” “Twilight.” “Did you bring anyone?” “No, I kind of thought it wasn’t right. It's not a wedding, it's a funeral. I also didn’t think bringing Shield would be smart.” “You and him get along real well.” “Yeah, I'm surprised. Who did you bring?” “Flash.” “Oh. How is he?” “Eh he’s ok not doing great but able to walk comfortably.” “That’s good, I'll go talk to him later.” “There’s a spot at the table for you.” “Thanks.” I spotted Rainbow Dash and Flash talking so I made my way over. I put a wing on Flash. “Hey how are you?” He shook me off. “Don’t pity me!” “I’m sorry I just wanted to know how you were doing.” “I’m fine, thanks for asking!” he walked off. “Did I do something wrong?” “He doesn’t like it when people pity him. His thought is he does this for the greater good if he gets hurt, ponies should just understand.” “I get it but jeez that's a little rough.” “Yeah.” “How are you doing?” “I'm vertical.” “I’m sorry.” “Don’t be it’s not your fault.” “I promise there will be a day where the Abhor can’t hurt you. I may die trying to make that happen but it’ll happen.” “Don’t make promises you can’t keep Shadow did the same thing I think that’s why he went on his suicide mission. He knew he would die but he thought that was the price to pay for the promises he couldn’t keep.” “I’ll keep this promise. You will see a day without the Abhor.” “I want you to meet someponies.” She had me follow her to the other side of the courtyard. The yard had been picked up and trimmed. The trees in the center looked great; the pink and orange blooms added a burst of color usually missing. “These are the WonderBolts you’ve probably seen their airshows but they’re more than that.” “We’re a special forces team put together by Luna and Celestia at the start of these attacks. We do more than just fight though we coordinate your guys next move where you go, how you go, and how many go.” “Sounds like a big deal.” “We’ve only heard good reports on you compared to others you hold yourself together out there.” “Thanks.” “These guys can’t be killed, you've never seen them out there but everytime you guys go out they follow.” “I’m glad to know someone’s got my back.” “Always.” Rainbow Dash walked away but i still had questions for the WonderBolts. “Who is she to you guys?” “Rainbow Dash?” “Yeah.” “A friend that we can count on to be there when we need her, trust me when I say you don’t want to be on her bad side.” “Well if you don’t mind me asking who is- “The pony the funeral is for? Well…” he held up a photo that was lying on the table. It was the four of them Soarin’, Fleetfoot, Spit Fire, and Fire Streak. “I’m sorry for your loss.” “It’s ok. She was a great pony and she liked what she did.” “That’s true.” I figured there would be a time of remembrance you know, some time of rest but there we were the next day suiting up to push back the Abhor. “Shining, I don't feel good about this.” “What do you mean?” “Something is going to go wrong.” “You always feel this way.” “This is different. I don't think you should have Shield come out with us.” “It’s too late. I made a promise to him.” “Shining this is different. I really think he’s going to get hurt. I don't want that to happen.” “He’s not weak, he can hold himself.” “I know maybe it is just me.” There we were trying to push back the Abhor. I knew our WonderBolts were in the sky if not we would be overrun. Shield was to the front of the group unable to fall back. I was held up by two in front of me and shining had a guy on him. No one had any worry of Shiled’s abilities until he yelled I looked up and he was overrun. It was him on five I ran through my opponents and plowed into one of the Abhor that was it I blacked out. When I woke up I was tied to a chair. Shield was about 10 feet away. I heard noise so I prepared for what it might be. “Your friend is still asleep huh not for long.” He grabbed a slab of something off the table no more than a few steps from Shield and swung it at Shields' horn. It didn’t break but I've never heard a scream so loud it was so full of pain. “You sick Buck!” “Hah feels great to be on top!” “Only a sick buck like you would find this amusing!” “You know there was a time Shadow loved this too.” “Maybe but he’s not that way anymore.” “That’s right because he’s dead.” “How could you kill your own brother?” Shield was still wailing I know he was hurting but the magic suppression ring on my horn kept me from doing anything “Gah! Shut up kid!” “Shield! Shield! Look at me.” he looked up at me, his eyes bloodshot. “It’s going to be ok just stay strong.” His eyes burned me; they were full of pain and terror. “Look, this can all end if I just get one thing that you have.” “What?” “Shadows journal.” “I don’t carry that on me you would know you have my bags.” “Yeah I know.” “What do you want with it?” “He kept all of his secret spells in there and I want them.” “You’re not getting them!” “We’ll see about that!” He made a spike using magic and held it to Shields chest. “Now you either give me the book or i’ll make sure he hurts for the rest of his life.” “Don’t do it Blue.” “No one asked you!” He pushed the spike harder onto Shields chest causing him to yell and bleed. “You determine this Shield you’re in pain I’m not!” “Don’t give him anything!” His voice is full of grit and bravery but of fear and pain as well. “Well you sound like you could use some persuasion.” Without hesitation he thrusted the spike into Shield he Screamed in agony all Rusty did was smile “How do you like this?” “The pain of others is fun. You don’t Laugh when the foal falls on his face?” “No, I'm not a sick buck like you!” Shield looked up at Rusty and a red smile crossed his face. “You're not getting anything from us. I'll die before you get anything from either of us.” “Fine if I can’t cast spells neither can you!” picking up the plank he had before he swung it at Shields' horn It shattered. A blast of white light and wailing that could make one go deaf followed. “NO!” I used all my energy, everything I had and I broke free from the ties after removing the ring I cast a blow off spell. It was from Shining's journal. Its purpose was simply to push everything away. This sent Shield, Rusty, and my bags flying at least 100 feet. I jumped up and bolted for Shield. Rusty was already gone somehow but the shield was still on the ground. I ran to grab my bags where I had some medical stuff and a blanket. I wrapped Shield in the blanket tightly and put him on my back. I wanted to get out before Rusty got back. “What is happening?” Shield had woken up. I'm sure me carrying him wasn’t helping his pain. “I’m taking you home.” “I think I need to puke.” “I wouldn’t if I were you.” that didn’t work he ended up falling off and puking there. “Well I guess this is just as good a place to check.” I unwrapped the blanket and it was clear he needed bandages or he wasn’t making it home. “This is probably going to hurt.” “Why?” “Because the bandages have to be tight.” “Could we just not have bandages then.” “I think your father would like you home alive.” I pulled the bandages from my bag and started to wrap them around Shield everytime he yelped. I died a little more. I had let this happen, it was my responsibility to protect him and I failed that. “Done.” “Good gah my head hurts.” “Get some sleep, kid, it'll keep you from feeling pain.” “The pain keeps me awake.” He started to cry. I knew he was in serious pain. I could see it in his eyes. “Ahh dammit kid what do you want from me? I'm trying my best here.” “Just make it go away!” We stopped and I let him back on the ground. I embraced him in a hug which he didn’t fight and we just sat there. He cried until there were no more tears and didn’t stop there. He cried until he finally fell asleep at nightfall. “Alright let’s get you back home kid.” I put him back on my back and walked the rest of the hour and thirty minutes home. When I got back everyone was asleep except for our barracks. They were still searching. Shining was back he must have just gotten in as he was taking his armor off. I walked behind him to Shields bed and placed him down trying not to wake him. I sat down on his bed. “Shining.” I whispered “What!” “Quiet down, he's asleep.” he started running over but I stood up “What happened to you two.” “Rusty kidnapped us.” “I’ll kill him.” I moved out of his way so he could see his son. His eyes went wide and he embraced his son in a hug. I unwrapped the blanket surrounding Shield this gave a more clear view of his horn. “Rusty did that?” “Yeah. I never wanted this.” “So he won’t even be able to cast anymore spells.” “Give him rest. He needs it after today.” “What did Rusty want from you two?” “He wanted Shadows Journal. He said it had secret spells in it and he wanted it from me. Shield was just ‘persuasion’ as he said.” “Sick buck!” “I should’ve given him the journal.” “What? No!” “So this is fine?” I looked at Shield and back to Shining my hoof pointed to Shield. “No it's not but it would've been a lot worse for both of you if he got the book.” “I have to change these bandages hopefully without waking him then i'm going to sleep somehow.” “I’ve got the bandages go to sleep.” “Are you sure?” “Yes.” And now here I am not sleeping because I can't. I figured writing this down would help but I realize now how stupid I was. I only hope tomorrow will provide some relief. Shield is up again, his horn is killing him. I wish I could make his pain go away but I can't. I'll search this book until I go blind for a spell to help him. Author's Note Remember all of my stories are connected Shadows Go Cold (What started all my stories) Shining Armor Chronicles HelplessThe last few days have been rough. We lost one of our best soldiers, we were overrun by Abhor and then me and Shield were kidnapped. Shield got the worst of it with a broken horn and some other injuries. He's out for a while. He's in so much pain he often starts randomly crying during the day. Doc says there might be some more damage beyond the horn itself. I would do anything to make him feel better. I know Shining would too but I have a weird feeling almost like the end is near for one of us three. “Your son’s crying again. I've run out of ideas at this point.” “Alright thanks Blue, tell him I'll be there in a second… oh and tell copper he left his armor out last night.” “He did it on purpose it’s actually a good idea ill have him tell you later.” Shining was waiting for Cadance and Flurry Heart. I hoped they would be able to take his and Shields mind off the pain. “Hey shield, you have some visitors.” I said as his family walked in. “Mom!” he said as he shot up. He was so happy he forgot that he was on the bottom bunk of the beds. I’m sure you could hear his cries from across the castle. “Go get the kid some ice Raider.” “In what?” “A bag. What do you think?” “From where?” “Raider!” “On it!” “Make it snappy.” Cadance was giving Shining a pissed off look. I wondered why but I figured I'd refrain from asking. I was getting uncomfortable to many ponies in one room all at the door. I knew that what was happening to Shield was my fault. I didn't want to be here when Cadance found out. “Excuse me.” “Oh sorry Blue.” I squeezed by before he could even move. I kept running until I almost ran into Dash. “Where you going so fast?” “On a walk.” “Looks more like a run.” “I’m running from a place I don’t want to be.” “Blue are you alright?” “No and I just want to be alone.” “What's wrong? Let me help.” “I just want to be alone right now.” “Well where are you going?” “The forest.” I ran off again hearing her say something about being alone. It took me a second to navigate to the way out of the castle but I finally was able to navigate to the forest and be alone. “Blue!” Just what I didn’t want. “What!” “I just want to know what’s wrong. I mean you just scared the crap out of Rainbow Dash.” “How much more simple does it need to be! Have I not told you multiple times what the issue is?” “Why does it bother you this much? I told you it’s not your fault!” “You don’t know the whole story!” “Then tell me!” “I left the decision to your son whether or not Rusty got the journal. That's what got him hurt.” “And so? It was his decision.” “At the end of the day I was responsible for what happened to him and I failed.” “Wait where are you going?” “On a walk!” “You’ll die in the forest alone.” “Hopefully.” I knew Shining would run after me so I made a wall to stop him. I forgot that walls are hard. “What the hell!” I turned around and went pale. A piece of his horn had broken off. “Dammit shining!” “Why?” “What is with your family and losing their horns? Don’t move.” I said as I put the piece where it belonged and used magic to reattach it. “You just fixed my horn, why can’t you fix my son’s.” “With you all I did was reattach it. With him I'd have to fully rebuild it. I don't have the power nor the know how. There’s a spell to do it in Shadow’s book but for some reason it explicitly says not to use it on you or your family. Now please, I want to be alone!” “Blue!... don’t kill yourself if not for me or the guard for my son he still likes you ya know.” “Yeah.” I headed into the forest and just kept walking straight. I got lost in thought about Rainbow Dash. I had grown to like her. She was nice and liked what she did. We had a lot in common. “Ya shouldn’t be here kid.” I looked up at a Jet black pony standing in front of me. “Who are you?” “You don’t know?” He lifted his head to reveal a scar across his left eye and a broken white horn hidden by his hood. “Shadow Colt.” “Yes sir.” “Rusty said you were dead.” “You believed him?” “Yeah with the way he said it and how he is, I honestly did.” “Never trust one whole hurt you even if what they say is something they would do.” “What happened to you?” “Rusty is my brother, what once was sibling foolery turned into war.” “You’re marked as a hero in the Guard. Ponies strive to be you!” “Why?” “Your story of being the best and saving Canterlot and probably Equestria as a whole.” “I told them not to do that. I never wanted to be known as that. I didn’t even do what they said I did. I never saved anything. I failed and went into hiding then pawned my problems off on you.” “We wouldn’t be here right now if you didn’t do what you did.” “You need to go kid.” “Why won’t you come with me?” “I won’t come back unless absolutely necessary. If I go back Rusty will attack you guys.” “How do you survive with a broken horn?” “Go back to the days where I had little to no magic, everything was done with hooves.” “Must be hard.” “The earth ponies do it.” “I’m stupid apparently.” “Shield is looking for you. He's with Doc. He got worse. He'll survive and be back to normal in a few days.” “How do you know all this?” “What he has, I was forced to build. I made it with a flaw so that no pony could die from it.” “That's cool and sad.” “You need to leave but before you do take this it’ll save Shining.” He tossed me a journal looking identical to the one I have. “Save him?” “He’ll end up here in the forest trapped by Rusty. That journal is almost identical but everything on the inside is flawed; it won't read the same and any spell he tries will fail. He’s dumber than you think and won’t test anything inside.” “How is he so smart but so dumb?” Before you go though, how is everyone?” “I’d have to assume you know about Shining and his family. Twilight has been alright. I don’t talk to Celestia and Luna hasn't been the same since Govend died.” “Wait Govends dead!” “I figured you knew.” “Anyone else?” “In all we lost Salt, Govend, Ace- “Ace is dead!?” “Yeah and it's my fault I'm sure.” “How?” “I made a comment about how you died and they found him dead later on in the day.” “Damn I should've never left, never pawned my problems off.” “How did Govend die?” “Mangled by the Abhor.” “Close it’s Aboori, they're basically the undead.” “What the hell “You know what, I'm going back with you but not like this.” He stood there for a second and I watched his black body turn to brown and his horn virtually disappear. “That’s a change.” “Yeah now no one will know it’s me, not even my brother.” “Good.” We left abruptly. He still wore his hood. It was similar to a rain jacket but it wouldn’t stop rain. “My brother won’t stop until he gets what he wants, sadly he’s patient meaning you guys will have to strike first.” “What happened to you?” “What do you mean?” “Clearly something bad happened that made you leave the guard.” “I didn’t want to leave the guard but it’s hard to do work like that when…uh just watch out for my brother.” “Come on man, I won't tell anyone.” “It’s not that I’m just not the same anymore.” he lifted his jacket i thought he was a pegasi but he was an alicorn it’s just his wings were gone. “That’s not all that got messed up.” he lifted his back leg and vigorously shook it. The prosthetic fell off. “Your brother did that to you!” “Yeah brotherly love right.” “Let’s hurry it up.” “Will you do me a favor?” “What?” “Go talk to Luna when we get back and do it as Shadow Colt.” “Speaking of Luna, why don’t you guys talk? She loves talking to the guards.” “Shadow, will you talk to Luna please.” “You have to go with me. I have to do something I don't want to do so you're doing it too. I also know you’re afraid of griffons. I saw the night you were with Garring.” “You saw it and didn’t do anything!” “That was the first Aboori attack and there was nothing I could do.” “That’s crap!” “Hey look trust me I would have done something griffons are the best hell Govend was my best friend.” he stopped “Huh, now I’ll never see him again.” he stared off into the distance and I laid a wing on him. “Don’t pity me, I did this to myself now let’s go you have to see Shield.” We hurried back in silence the whole time. Shining always said we’d get along but I'm not seeing it. “Shining!” “Blue! What the hell were you doing!” he ran towards me but stopped “Who is that?” Shadow had stopped behind me looking down so his hood covered him “A new guy I think.” Shining walked closer but stopped right beside me. That's when Shadow showed himself. “Damn you look old as hell Shining.” “Shadow!” shining wrapped him in a hug causing Shadow to yell in pain. “You alright?” “I never got to recover, things still hurt shining. That’s why I never came back to the guard. I couldn't do it anymore.” “Why did you leave? You left me, your own group, Govend.” shadow took off his jacket to reveal his wings “This is why Shining! And that’s not the only reason!” he shook his leg again to reveal it was missing. “I’m sorry I didn't know you usually always shake it off like nothing.” “Think about what you say to the guy thrown to the ground from 200 feet before you say it! What the hell were you thinking? I said to leave! Your ass got me hurt!” I interrupted their festival and asked how Shield was doing. “He’s dying Blue.” “Your son will be fine. Shining, I only know because I had to build what he’s got, it won't get worse than it is now.” “How did Blue not get it?” “I don’t know. Has he ever had changeling fever?” “Yeah, I had it not too long ago.” “Could be why it’s just a worse version of that.” “What made you come back?” Two things, one Rusty has it out for you and your son and two apparently I have another brother and a sister.” “How do you not know?” “Rusty definitely had something to do with it.” The door to Shields' room opened and Doc walked out his face changed from worry to anger in a second. “Get out of my office!” “Yes sir.” Shadow walked out and we just stood there shocked looking at Doc. “Your son was asking for you.” “What the hell just happened?” “Long story, not enough time. You might as well take him, I can't do anything.” “Thanks doc I guess we’ll go.” he went to get Shield and I went to find Shadow “Over here.” It was dark out by this time so all I could see was his broken horn “The bunk above me is open, go take it and get some rest.” “Before I do that I want to know two more things.” “Go ahead.” “How are Flash and Spike?” “Spike has an issue with trust. I think he only talks to Twilight and Shining. flash is… well… broken he doesn't allow anyone to feel for him and his group in the guard while they get the job done isn’t the best.” “He was never the best leader but he was on par with shining.” “Not even close now.” “I knew emotional damage did that to ponies but I never thought it would be him.” “It’s more than emotional damage.” “Oh I thought you ran away again Shadow.” Shining carried Shield on his back he was asleep which was good he hadn’t gotten any for two days. “Don’t use that name around anyone other than us, do you understand?” “Yeah sorry.” “Looks like I have some rekindling to do. I'll start tomorrow. I'd think everyone’s in bed by now.” “All except for Luna.” I said a little too ecstatically. “You just want to see me uncomfortable don’t you Blue?” “You uncomfortable? I’ll be the uncomfortable one.” We walked back to the castle. We weren't far but it stayed silent the whole time. When we made it back Shadow made friends again with Flash and Twilight; at least it seems he did. We went and talked to Luna. He requested extra protection on Shining and his family as well as Twilight to my surprise it was granted. I went to sleep not long later as it had been a long day but i was awoken by Shield “What happened?” “Huh? Oh you fell asleep in Doc’s office you’ll be alright kid don’t worry.” “I’m dying aren’t I.” “What gave you that idea?” “I heard Doc talking about it.” “You’ll be ok trust me go back to sleep you need it.” “When will my head not hurt and my legs feel right again.” “Soon.” he winced as he tried to roll over, his horn had become visibly darker. “Do you need anything Shield?” “No, I'm good.” movement at the end of my bunk had me questioning my sight “Shield, did you see that?” “Yeah, It was probably Shadow. It's ok.” I decided to get up to see what it was. When I got to the end of the bed I put my hoof on the figure. It was hard but it moved. “Shadow is that you?” I looked up to see two Glowing green dots. It moved with unmatched speed disappearing into the darkness unsure of what I just saw. I decided to go back to bed. I figured it was just my brain playing tricks on me. I laid back down and closed my eyes. There was a presence close to close. I opened my eyes just to look around and make sure. I’d rather be crazy than right but I was right at the farthest corner of the rom the green eyes were back. “Shield.” There was no response . “Shield.” I looked over only for a second as I heard steps. The eyes were closer now only three bunks away. What was this, a horror movie? Had I been transported onto the set of a movie. “Shield.” I wasn’t whispering anymore but I wasn’t yelling yet. I couldn't keep my eyes open anymore. I blinked. Two bunks away “What the Buck man!” I figured if I kept my eyes on it the thing wouldn’t move. I ripped off the covers getting ready to make a move. They blocked my vision of the thing. It was there right in front of me. It wanted me to blink. It was a staring contest but with dire consequences if I blinked my eyes burned with no end they watered with an unending flow. The green eyes stared into my soul. I involuntarily blinked. I saw him move before my eyes even closed, his impatience getting the best of him. He hit my exposed neck first pain shot through my body as I tried to yell but I couldn’t when my eyes opened he was gone. I could tell I was bleeding a lot. Not wanting to scare Shield, I got up to get Shining. “Hey you alright kid?” It was Shadow. I was unsure if he could see me but I shook my head no. “Alright I've got you just hang in there.” I stood there wavering back and forth as he scrambled down. “Where are you hurt?” I tried to say something but the more I did the weaker I got “Let’s get into the light.” he guided me out where there was a full moon “Oh shit kid hang in there. Nevermind.” He was right. I was starting to shake, it was taking everything I had to stay upright. He scooped me up onto his back and rushed to Doc. “Hang in there kid were almost there.” My vision faded but I could still hear. “Doc! This is an emergency!” “It better be a damn good one! Oh crap where did you take him that got him this hurt!” “I didn’t take him anywhere. It was in the barracks.” “Yeah sure! Get him in here!” “Whatever it is got him in the throat, real good Doc.” “Clearly! Was it Aboori?” “I don't know it was gone by the time I saw him.” “He won’t talk again ever.” That was the last thing I remember. I woke up in the Hospital Copper Blade by my side and another figure in the corner. “Hey Blue!... don’t talk, it'll only hurt.” I gave an awkward wave while I laid my other hoof on my neck. It hurt a lot. The figure in the corner finally moved. A Griffon got up and walked over to the other side of my bed. A calm gentle voice came from him. “Hello, can I get you anything?” I tried to signal that I wanted something to write with. “Food? Doc said you can’t eat anything right now.” I shook my head and looked around for anything to write with but there was nothing. “Get him something to write with that’ll help.” I shook my head to say yes “Alright I'm on it Rainbow dash wanted to see you is that ok.” I didn't know how to say that I wanted to wait so I just said no. The griffon walked out when he came back. I could see rainbow Dash peeking into the door worried. “Here you go my name is Goring. By the way, I'm the new guy in your group.” “Nice to meet you.” I wrote on the pad I wanted to say something so bad but even the slightest change in my throat hurt like hell. “Shining will be in soon. He has to talk to Shadow.” I forgot about Shadow “Get Shadow in here when you can please.” I rather hastily wrote on the pad. “I’ll see what I can do.” Copper left to go get shadow and I had Goring go get Dash. It took a minute but she came in. “Blue… what happened?” the night flashed through my head “I don’t want to talk about it.” I wrote on the pad. Just thinking about it made me breath heavy. “That’s fine. They’re thinking of letting you go.” “What? Why?” My brain was filled with questions as I wrote that on the pad I wasn’t disabled I only lost my voice. “They can’t talk with you. You can’t call for help.” “That doesn’t matter, there are other ways to do that.” my brain raced with questions. Having to write everything on a dumb pad made it incredibly hard to ask them. “I’m worried for you Blue. What if you go out there and get hurt?” I paused for a second I didn’t know she cared that much about me “You care that much about me?” “Of course I do, you're cool you still owe me a flight time with you.” I smiled and a laugh tried to make its way out. I grit my teeth and clutch my throat rolling into my pillow trying everything to make the pain subside. “Sorry Blue.” I held up a hoof trying to let her know it was ok while I laid in pain. I felt her wing rest on my back. I understand why flash didn’t like it. I felt weak and helpless under her wing. “Now that I know somepony cares, maybe I'll be a bit more careful.” I still laid face in the pillow trying to get the pain to subside “I’m sure you have a family that cares for you.” “My family abandoned me. The only reason I'm alive is because of the guard.” it was the hard truth. If it wasn't for the guard I'd be dead and now to think I was getting booted. “I never knew Blue. I'm sorry I didn’t mean to bring it up.” “You weren’t ever supposed to know it's ok.” “I’ve got Ice!” “I’m calling you Ice Raider from now on.” I wrote on the pad he saw it and chuckled. I never asked for ice but I hoped it would help my throat. “Goring got Shadow and Shining, it's up to you who comes in first.'' A quick thanks and he's out. With the pad I told Rainbow Dash to send Shining in. She gave a worried smile then exited. Shining came through the door before it even shut. “How are you feeling Blue?” “Just great!” The pad was getting full so I flipped the page. “I wish I was up, maybe it would’ve been me.” “Don’t! you have a family to talk to. I don't.” “What do you mean you have family don’t you?” “No they abandoned me, if it wasn’t for the guard I wouldn’t be here.” he looked at me sorrow in his eyes. “Have you heard yet?” “Yes.” “I'm trying to get them to drop it. It's between Twilight, Luna, and Celestia.” “They can’t keep you out, you're my boss, you have to have a say in this.” “I wish I did. I’ll send Shadow in." I wrote thanks and he left. Shadow stuck his head in the door. “How ya doin?” “Making it.” “I wish I could’ve helped you more.” “Are you planning on walking in?” “You want me to?” “Yeah, I'm not mad at you.” “I didn’t want to. I brought all of this on you guys.” “Your brother brought it on us.” “Yeah I know but I had the chance to stop it and I didn’t.” He sat down burying his face in his hooves. He sat there for quite a few minutes when he looked up and a fire raged in his eyes. “Whatever you’re thinking isn’t a good idea.” “But it may be the only good one!” he got up heading towards the door trying to get his attention while waving wasn’t working so I squeaked out any sound at the disapproval of my throat. He stopped “Why kid?” He turned around to look at me. Having forgotten that the pad was there I tried to say something else. “Stop, stop, stop, stop! You’re going to hurt yourself worse than you already are.” he picked up the pad “Use this kid, save your voice, let it heal. I know that hurt throw something, don't hurt yourself. I’ll go get Doc see if he can help you out here.” i rushed a question on the pad “What happened between you and Doc the day you came back?” “It’s too long of a story for right now ask when you’re not hurt.” rushing another question he stopped me. “Slow down kid. Look, I have to go try and talk to Celestia get some rest. I'll be back later.” He left and with silence in the room I fell asleep again. Author's Note Remember all of my stories are connected Shadows Go Cold (What started all my stories) Shining Armor Chronicles Shadow Colt
Fitting inI’ve found that this journal yearns for a certain type of story. I’ve got one for it, one that makes me wish I hadn't joined the guard. You don’t realize what you’ve got till it’s gone, you don’t know who your friends are till they're gone. I almost lost two and I still wonder if it’s my fault. We got woken up early as we had to go and inspect the area where two of our scouts were found dead. There wasn’t much abnormal about this; we have scouts go missing at least once a month; they usually get careless and walk into enemy territory. We didn’t think much about it until there was a frantic knock on the door. I went to open it but I was cut off. “It’s Cadance, let me get it.” “You got it boss.” he opened the door to a panicked and scared Cadance. “Hey honey what’s wrong?” “Don’t go! Have a different group go!” “This is my job, I have to go.” “What if you get hurt? What if you die? What will I do?” He embraced her in a hug. “I will always come back to my Cadance.” “Cadance if it's any consolation I’ll make sure he comes back unharmed.” yeah I screwed up on this remark. “Thank you.” They kissed and she walked away saddened. Shining turned around and quickly looked at me with a sad worried face. Did he know it was going to happen? How? “Are we all ready?” We all said yes and we were off. About an hour or two later we were at the approximate location. “Shining, want me to get an overhead view?” “Yeah, go for it.” I went to go just under the canopy of trees but once I made it over the bushes lining the road I knew we were screwed. Hundreds of eyes peered at me, their light green horn showing just above the brush. “You stopped, what is it?” “Were F’ing screwed!” “You’ve got eyes, what do we need to do?” “Two circles one inside of the other and walk back the way we came.” “Everyone does what he says!” They formed two circles and we slowly walked. I knew they could see me. I assumed they could see the group but I waited to move from my spot. “What are you doing?” “I’ve got their attention you guys get out while I have them!” “We don’t leave anypony behind!” “You either leave me behind or were going to have a lot of dead guards.” “Alright let's get out!” “We weren’t far into the forest so it didn’t take long for them to get to the edge . When the group made it to the edge they tore through the brush lining the road it was just a black mass headed at the group. But they stopped. “What the hell is that!” I turned around quickly to be met with a pony similar to the pictures of Shadow only he was wasn’t Shadow “Rusty!!” Shining yelled from the group. Shadow's journal had writing in it of the day he died. I don't know how Shadow did it but with the way his journal is I’m sure there was some mind play. “So you’re rusty.” I changed to my dark colors. I don't know why but it felt right. “And you’re Crimson Shadow.” “I am you’re the prick that killed your own brother.” “Yep, I see I need to finish something.” He blew through me pushing me to the side. I almost fell out of the air but caught myself. He was headed straight for shining. “Shing watch out!!!!” He shot up a shield but it wasn’t strong when Rusty made contact it shattered like glass. He pinned Shining to the ground and the guards that were around shining had been dazed by the shockwave of the shield breaking. I charged Rusty with everything I had, knocking him off of shining and dragging him through the dirt. “You think you can stop my will! I’ll get you like I did shadow and so many others.” “I think I got you here!” “Look around you! I won this, you're no stronger than Shadow, I’ll weaken you like I did him.” “Have a fun time trying!” “Look around! No trying is to be done!” I looked over my shoulder he was right he had won those who could get up circled shining while the others laid in agony. I looked back at him. He was gone. It was one of those things so I killed it and ran toward Shining. “Shining!” there was no response from him but everyone around him looked up my best friend was at his side “What happened?” “That prick stabbed him!” I didn't see it but Rusty had gotten shining twice. “With what he had nothing on him.” “He dropped it when you hit him, it's whatever this is.” He held up a bright green horn, one of the ones that was found on those beasts. “Wait where did they all go?” “Ran off when you killed the one over there.” “We need to get him back now!” “You’ll carry him?” “Yeah.” They hoisted him up onto my back at the disapproving groans of Shining. It took us over two and a half hours to get back. I stayed at the back during the time to watch. When I made it in the Canterlot gates those who were standing took off their hats or looked down while others hugged. We kept going towards the castle the main front guards stood at attention and salute to the fallen a special salute done only when one has passed “Blue, make sure that Cadance and Twilight know.” “Taking care of it.” he ran off. I headed over to Dr. Whooves where shining could get help. “Dr. Whooves!” “What can I… Holy crap get him in here!” I rushed into the room he went into and put shining on the bed. I was finally able to get a look… Red that was the color everything was red. “You need to get cleaned up, do that and get back here!” I did as he said, making my way to the showers. “Musket!” it was Twilight and Cadance “I’m sorry I'm so sorry I tried believe me.” “We believe you, we know you wouldn’t just let this happen.” I started to walk away but was stopped “Wait! What happened?” “We made it to the spot but it was a setup Rusty had set us up he wanted to kill Shining!” “Wait, it was Rusty?!” “Well yes and no it was him who set it up but it was his minions that attacked us” “Minions?” I sighed in exhaustion. “Look, just go shower and get some sleep, we'll talk later.” “I have to come back after a shower.” “Go get some sleep you need it!” “I’m not coming back because I want to, I'm coming back because Doc told me to.” “We’ll tell him what you told us just go get sleep.” “I haven't told you everything. Look I'm going to get cleaned up then I'll be down there ok!” I left in a hurry. I was ready to get to sleep and they were holding me up. I cleaned up and headed back down there. “Doc you should see this!” “Wait, did that get him!” “Yeah in all the rush I forgot to show you.” “Danggit kid you should’ve told me!” He ran around the counter and grabbed 3 bottles and a syringe. “I didn’t know! I had forgotten so much had happened! Look, I'm sorry!” “Sorry won’t save him kid!” He turned to look at me. He had a concerned face and he started to speak but I cut him off. “If he needs it you come to me and only me!” He looked confused but understood what I meant after a second. “I wouldn’t let you.” “I wasn’t asking!” I left knowing I had made my point. I headed towards the barracks but was stopped by Luna herself! I know she knew about me but I never actually got to see her. “Musket are you alright?” “Umm… uh… yeah sure I’m fine” “You don’t look or sound like it.” “Well to be honest I'm a little bit nervous.” “What for?” “Well im talking to Princess Luna one wrong thing and well id rather not think about it.” “Don't worry, you're a royal guard if you ever need me. I'm usually around.” “Nice to know.” I started to walk away but she stopped me again. “What happened out there?” “Can we talk more later? I'm tired and just want to sleep.” She sighed but let me go on. I felt bad but I was in pain and severely exhausted. “Hey Musket, can you grab the ice and bottle of meds over there?” “When did you start taking medication?” I said as I gave him the meds. “I’ve had these for a long time. As far as I know they don’t expire. I've never had a use for them but today is a good use.” “You’re in that much pain?” “Well pain is an understatement.” He said as he lifted the cover on his leg. “Why haven't you gone to Doc for that!?” “He’s busy with shining, I'm not going to interrupt!” “That might be the best for both doc and shining.” “What do you mean?” “I don't want to talk about it, I'm going to sleep!” “Come on man, what's eating at you?” “Let it go.” “Man just take your pills and shut up!” “This is the most I’ve heard you talk since you got here. Whatever's eating at you is big.” “He’s dying Ace and it's my fault!” “It’s not your fault this happens he’ll be alright he always is.” “I bet you said the same thing for Shadow and here we are!” I was facing away from him when I said that but the whole room changed after I said it. The room was dense. I heard him get up and leave audibly limping the whole way. I rolled over to see where he was originally sitting. The ice was still in the bag but the bottle of pills was empty. Did he take them all? I must’ve fallen asleep because I woke up to being yelled at. “Come on, we have to go!” “What? What for?” “Large group of changelings spotted heading here!” I jumped up and put on my armor. I don't even know why they give us this stuff it doesn’t do much. “Wait, where's Ace? “We’ll talk later, we don't have time now!” he ran out and I ran out behind him. He was right that there were changelings but not a large group; maybe 20 of them. “Everyone stand down they won’t fight” They stopped about twenty feet away from us “Celestia, we come to make peace. There is a greater enemy among us, one that took our original group of seventy to what you see now.” “Who attacked you Chrysalis?” “They looked like us but with bright green horns.” “That’s what got shining armor.” “I’m sorry I know he meant a lot to you guys, he was a good fighter.” They acted like shining was dead. Was he? Had I caused him to die? I was broken from my thoughts by a sharp pain in my head i fell forward out of pain i heard commotion from both side but not for long everyone seemed to have calmed down in a few seconds. “Musket, are you alright!” “Yeah I'm alright.” I said as I painfully got back on my feet. “I’m sorry I don't know what caused this outburst. I came to make peace not attack.” my ached like nothing else. My vision was blurry but better than nothing. I felt like i was moving and i must have been. “Musket, are you sure you’re ok?” “Yes… no I-I’ll be fine.” “Get him to doc we can finish without him.” “I’ll be fine, believe me.” “That’s not a request Kick, that's an order take Musket to Doc.” Kick helped me along and i got the chance to ask him what happened to Ace. “What happened to Ace? he wasn't out there with us.” “Govend found him beneath the center tree in the gardens. He overdosed on some pain meds.” I stopped in my tracks. “What!” “Yeah no one knew he was that bad off.” “I don’t think he was depressed.” “What do you mean?” “Yesterday we were talking about shining and I made a comment about shadow. I didn't see him leave but when I looked over he was gone and the bottle of pills was empty.” “Why didn’t you tell anyone we could’ve saved him!” “Seems like I've had the effect of getting others killed.” “I don’t know if I want to hear more.” “The day Shining was hurt. I got so sidetracked with getting him help and following docs orders I forgot to give him the thing that hurt shining. When I did, Doc yelled at me and said I might have gotten Shining killed.” “Well he’s not dead but he’s not ok.” “I don’t think I'll make it much farther.” “What's wrong?” “I’m nauseous, my head hurts.” I must've collapsed as all I remember was his yelling. Author's Note Remember all of my stories are connected Shadows Go Cold (What started all my stories) Shining Armor Chronicles
ShieldSo apparently Shining has a son I never knew about. Flash got hurt in a fight the day I got out of the hospital so much for 15 days free of the Abhor. Rainbow Dash came up with that name. She's pretty cool but she doesn't come around too much. They say she’s a good flier but they haven’t seen me fly yet. We’re supposed to get two new guys today Sky Raider and Copper Blade Shining wants me to get them that’ll go great. “Blue, I told you to get the new guys.” “Oh, sorry.” I hustled out and through the castle but I stopped when I saw flash. He had gotten hurt and lost vision in his right eye; he was still struggling to walk. “Hey flash you’re doing better.” “Hah, thanks kid.” I stood there for a second just thinking why did the world have to be this way, why can’t we just get along. I snapped out of it and ran past him to the front gates. I saw Copper Blade immediately all I could think was I hope I don’t make a fool of myself. “Copper Blade?” “I am. Who are you?” “I’m Blue Light.” “Well I'm looking for Shining armor.” “He sent me to get you.” “Ok.” “I still have to get one other guy.” We walked around a bit and I finally spotted a guy looking similar to Sky Raider. “Please tell me that's not him.” The guy looked like he drank 12 sodas before coming out here. We looked at each other for a second. “I think we should just not.” “Shining would kill me.” we made our way over there cringing the whole time “Hello?” “Oh hello, do you know where I can find Shining Armor?” “He sent me to get you.” “Ok cool. We walked back to the barracks. Raider didn’t shut up the whole time. “So what’s it like being a Royal Guard?” “You’ll see.” “Whoa she’s cool.” I looked to my left and saw Rainbow Dash. “We're almost to the barracks, let's hurry up.” We made it there quickly and Shining met them at the door. “Hello you must be the new guys.” “Yep I’m Sky Raider. I don't know his name. We haven't really met yet." Of course he talked first. “I’m Copper Blade.” “Nice to meet you two…” I started to get impatient. I wanted to catch Rainbow Dash before she left. “Do you have something you need to do Blue?” “Yeah.” “Go ahead.'' I ran to the courtyard where I last saw Rainbow Dash. I looked around but she was nowhere in sight. “Dang it I missed her” “Missed who?” “Ahh! Oh no one, don't worry about it.” “Come on who?” “Twilight.” “I’m just trying to help.” “Ugh I was looking for Rainbow Dash. She was out here a while ago.” “Oh she’s over there.” twilight pointed to the coffee shop. “Oh thanks.” I made my way over and tried not to act like a stalker. There was a line but I was able to get in right behind her. “I've never been here before, what would you suggest?” “Oh I didn’t see you come in. I like the medium frappuccino with two extra sugars, a shot of espresso, light cream, and caramel drizzle.” “The what?” she giggled “Don’t worry I'll get you one.” we waited in line and got our drinks “So why did you decide to be a Royal Guard?” “Honestly I had nothing better to do.” “I guess that works.” “This is actually a better drink than I expected.” “Glad you like it.” “Did you ever get to know Shadow?” her smile faded as she shifted in her seat. “Sorry, nevermind.” “No it’s alright I never got to know much about him, only what twilight sent in letters. He seemed like a good guy. I wish I came up here more often when he was alive. He seemed like a good pony.” “I didn’t get to know much. I wish I knew more. I mean he knew my name before I knew his.” “What do you mean?” “Apparently Shadow left his journal to me but he died before I became a guard. I don’t know how he knew me.” “That is weird.” She was getting uncomfortable so I tried to change the subject. “You can fly pretty well.” “Thank you. I've never seen you fly but I’m sure you can.” “It’s been a while you don’t need to fly as much in the guard.” “I’m going to teach some lessons for some kids later want to join “It’s a date… I mean a plan… I mean yes I'll join if you still want me to.” she laughed at my utter screw up but allowed me to join. “It’s not for another 30 minutes so take your time.” She got up. I assume to get ready I took some time finishing my drink and went back to the quarters. “Hey shining, can I get some time off for maybe four or five hours.” “Four or five hours! What for?” “Rainbow Dash invited me to help her teach some kids.” “You have a date with Rainbow Dash?” “It’s not a date!” “Hmm… ok sure whatever you say.” “So… am I free?” “Yeah go ahead.” I still had about ten minutes so I went to find her “Blue over here!” I turned to my left and Rainbow Dash is walking a small group of kids to the field “Hey so what exactly do you teach?” “Some of the kids needed general help learning to fly, others were learning tricks and things.” “Oh ok that’s cool.” “Today is the last day.” “Ah yes graduation.” “Pretty much it’s just going to be a showing off kind of day.” we made it to the field and took flight “Ok everyone, so today we’re just going to show off what we’ve learned. I have a friend with me today everyone say hello to Blue.” the kids said hello at least I believe that’s what they said. There was only about 10 minutes left in the ‘lesson’ so Rainbow Dash decided to show off her greatest trick, a rolling dive to the ground with an inverted lift she said. “I mean I get you’re like the best and all but are you sure?” “Yeah we’re good.” She went for it. We were pretty high up as she went for her inverted lift and she stopped and darted upwards. “Ok sorry about that due to some unnoticed issues i’ll have to cut class a little short.” she looked at me swallowing hard “Don’t go down there.” she whispered. “Why?” “You don’t want to see what I just saw.” “Let's get them back I need to see so I can report to Shining.” “You’d rather not see it but ok.'' We rushed them back to the courtyard and after making sure they were safe we headed back. “Was it really that bad?” “You’re on your own down there I won’t see it again.” We made it back to where she saw it. I went to the tree line and descended slowly. I didn't have to see. I could smell it. I was only 15 feet from the ground but against my better judgment I descended more. What I saw can have no description. I don't know how she held it in but I didn't know what was left of it was everywhere something had happened here and I wasn’t sticking around to find out. “Blue! Get up here! Quick hurry!” She said I flew up so fast whatever was down there with me got pushed away. “We’re going now.” We flew full speed all the way back. I kept up somehow. Maybe she wasn’t going full speed as she was afraid of leaving me behind. We landed the visible terror on our faces for all to see. “Are you guys ok?” A random pony said from across the courtyard. “Yeah we’ll be alright.” “Come with me back to the barracks.” she looked at me and nodded visibly shaken and in horror. We made our way to the barracks but I stopped her before we made it there. “He is going to ask you questions, do you want to do this?” her eyes welled up and she started to cry. I did my best to comfort her. “Look it’s ok you don’t have to, I'll just tell him what I saw and you can wait outside if you want.” she nodded and i went in while she stayed behind. “Shining, we need to talk now!” “Come into my quarters.” We entered and as he was shutting the door he saw Rainbow Dash. “What happened?” “We both saw something in the forest by the field near the courtyard. I would tell you to look for yourself but trust me when I say you don’t want to.” “Did any of the kids see it?” “No sir.” “Describe it.” “There is no description. What once was is now simply all over the relative area.” “You mean…” “Yes sir, I don’t know what would cause this or do this but yes.” “Could you make out who?” “No sir” “Color, cutie mark?” “The mark wasn’t visible. I think the color was black…” that's when I realized what Rainbow Dash ws talking about. Whatever did It was waiting, waiting for me to get just a little bit closer. “That’s not the right color, that was the color of what did it.” “I’ll send a team out.” “No, don't! It’ll just get them killed.” “Let me talk to Rainbow Dash.” “Shining, be careful, I don't think she’ll want to talk if she’s even still out there.” “I understand.” I walked out first where I was met with Rainbow Dash and Twilight. “Twilight.” “Could I ask you some questions if you’re alright with it?” Rainbow Dash nodded and Shining shut the door behind her. “Twilight I don’t know what could do that.” “Why did you make her go back?” “I didn’t make her. She could have stayed in the courtyard with the kids.” “Why did you need to see?” “I had to report it to Shining.” “You couldn’t have let her do that?” “She's too shocked and scared to talk about it. I'm sure what we saw was enough to if you had given him the book it would’ve been worsescar her.” “And yet you made her go back.” “I didn’t make her do anything!” Just my luck for Luna to come walking around the corner. “Yep, I'm getting fired.” Shining and Rainbow dash walked out. “Hey, what’s going on here?” Luna asked as she gave me the death stare “Rainbow Dash an Blue were in the field by the courtyard teaching some of the kids Rainbow dash went to do a trick and saw something in the forest. From what I gathered from Blue it was not a pretty sight and it’s no longer a safe place to send anyone.” “I’ll have to go see for myself.” “Luna! I understand you’ve probably seen plenty of terrible sights but this is one you’ll wish you never saw.” Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement. “Ok well according to Shining it’s something that might need cleaning?” “You’d be better off letting it rot away. I would feel bad but I don't think it's safe to send anyone over there both physically and mentally.” “Ok, I will trust you guys in this because I know I can trust you two. There’s still one thing to be settled though what was happening between you two?” “After Rainbow Dash saw the scene they took the kids to safety then Blue made Rainbow go back so he could see and report it to Shining.” “I didn’t force her to come with me. I'll admit i didn’t tell her to stay but I didn’t tell her to come with me either.” “He’s right, I did come on my own accord.” “Ok, I see no issues here then.” She walked away and I turned to Rainbow Dash. “You don’t think I made you come do you?” “No.” “Blue I’m sorry it’s just not normal for Rainbow Dash to go back to something that’s scared her this much.” “I understand.” Twilight left and Rainbow Dash started to follow her “Wait Rainbow Dash.” “You can call me Dash you know.” “Oh ok, lok if you want to talk I'll be here.” “That was my friend.” “I’m sorry.” “It’s okay at least they can’t feel pain anymore.” “You look like you could get some sleep.” “I can’t sleep after that.” “It doesn’t hurt to try.” “I have to get back to my place.” “Sleep here no one will bother you, it's not the first time a non guard has slept here.” “I don’t know.” “I’ll stay here, I have nothing else to do.” She finally decided to try and sleep, nothing much happened until the funeral. They held a funeral for Dash’s friend. I didn't learn until today that Rainbow Dash was a guard, well kind of she was more of a spy kind of position. We were allowed to bring a friend if we wanted but I didn’t think it would be right to take Unyielding Shield. Me and I have gotten along really well. I figured he would be wary around us but he seems to get along. “Blue!” “Twilight.” “Did you bring anyone?” “No, I kind of thought it wasn’t right. It's not a wedding, it's a funeral. I also didn’t think bringing Shield would be smart.” “You and him get along real well.” “Yeah, I'm surprised. Who did you bring?” “Flash.” “Oh. How is he?” “Eh he’s ok not doing great but able to walk comfortably.” “That’s good, I'll go talk to him later.” “There’s a spot at the table for you.” “Thanks.” I spotted Rainbow Dash and Flash talking so I made my way over. I put a wing on Flash. “Hey how are you?” He shook me off. “Don’t pity me!” “I’m sorry I just wanted to know how you were doing.” “I’m fine, thanks for asking!” he walked off. “Did I do something wrong?” “He doesn’t like it when people pity him. His thought is he does this for the greater good if he gets hurt, ponies should just understand.” “I get it but jeez that's a little rough.” “Yeah.” “How are you doing?” “I'm vertical.” “I’m sorry.” “Don’t be it’s not your fault.” “I promise there will be a day where the Abhor can’t hurt you. I may die trying to make that happen but it’ll happen.” “Don’t make promises you can’t keep Shadow did the same thing I think that’s why he went on his suicide mission. He knew he would die but he thought that was the price to pay for the promises he couldn’t keep.” “I’ll keep this promise. You will see a day without the Abhor.” “I want you to meet someponies.” She had me follow her to the other side of the courtyard. The yard had been picked up and trimmed. The trees in the center looked great; the pink and orange blooms added a burst of color usually missing. “These are the WonderBolts you’ve probably seen their airshows but they’re more than that.” “We’re a special forces team put together by Luna and Celestia at the start of these attacks. We do more than just fight though we coordinate your guys next move where you go, how you go, and how many go.” “Sounds like a big deal.” “We’ve only heard good reports on you compared to others you hold yourself together out there.” “Thanks.” “These guys can’t be killed, you've never seen them out there but everytime you guys go out they follow.” “I’m glad to know someone’s got my back.” “Always.” Rainbow Dash walked away but i still had questions for the WonderBolts. “Who is she to you guys?” “Rainbow Dash?” “Yeah.” “A friend that we can count on to be there when we need her, trust me when I say you don’t want to be on her bad side.” “Well if you don’t mind me asking who is- “The pony the funeral is for? Well…” he held up a photo that was lying on the table. It was the four of them Soarin’, Fleetfoot, Spit Fire, and Fire Streak. “I’m sorry for your loss.” “It’s ok. She was a great pony and she liked what she did.” “That’s true.” I figured there would be a time of remembrance you know, some time of rest but there we were the next day suiting up to push back the Abhor. “Shining, I don't feel good about this.” “What do you mean?” “Something is going to go wrong.” “You always feel this way.” “This is different. I don't think you should have Shield come out with us.” “It’s too late. I made a promise to him.” “Shining this is different. I really think he’s going to get hurt. I don't want that to happen.” “He’s not weak, he can hold himself.” “I know maybe it is just me.” There we were trying to push back the Abhor. I knew our WonderBolts were in the sky if not we would be overrun. Shield was to the front of the group unable to fall back. I was held up by two in front of me and shining had a guy on him. No one had any worry of Shiled’s abilities until he yelled I looked up and he was overrun. It was him on five I ran through my opponents and plowed into one of the Abhor that was it I blacked out. When I woke up I was tied to a chair. Shield was about 10 feet away. I heard noise so I prepared for what it might be. “Your friend is still asleep huh not for long.” He grabbed a slab of something off the table no more than a few steps from Shield and swung it at Shields' horn. It didn’t break but I've never heard a scream so loud it was so full of pain. “You sick Buck!” “Hah feels great to be on top!” “Only a sick buck like you would find this amusing!” “You know there was a time Shadow loved this too.” “Maybe but he’s not that way anymore.” “That’s right because he’s dead.” “How could you kill your own brother?” Shield was still wailing I know he was hurting but the magic suppression ring on my horn kept me from doing anything “Gah! Shut up kid!” “Shield! Shield! Look at me.” he looked up at me, his eyes bloodshot. “It’s going to be ok just stay strong.” His eyes burned me; they were full of pain and terror. “Look, this can all end if I just get one thing that you have.” “What?” “Shadows journal.” “I don’t carry that on me you would know you have my bags.” “Yeah I know.” “What do you want with it?” “He kept all of his secret spells in there and I want them.” “You’re not getting them!” “We’ll see about that!” He made a spike using magic and held it to Shields chest. “Now you either give me the book or i’ll make sure he hurts for the rest of his life.” “Don’t do it Blue.” “No one asked you!” He pushed the spike harder onto Shields chest causing him to yell and bleed. “You determine this Shield you’re in pain I’m not!” “Don’t give him anything!” His voice is full of grit and bravery but of fear and pain as well. “Well you sound like you could use some persuasion.” Without hesitation he thrusted the spike into Shield he Screamed in agony all Rusty did was smile “How do you like this?” “The pain of others is fun. You don’t Laugh when the foal falls on his face?” “No, I'm not a sick buck like you!” Shield looked up at Rusty and a red smile crossed his face. “You're not getting anything from us. I'll die before you get anything from either of us.” “Fine if I can’t cast spells neither can you!” picking up the plank he had before he swung it at Shields' horn It shattered. A blast of white light and wailing that could make one go deaf followed. “NO!” I used all my energy, everything I had and I broke free from the ties after removing the ring I cast a blow off spell. It was from Shining's journal. Its purpose was simply to push everything away. This sent Shield, Rusty, and my bags flying at least 100 feet. I jumped up and bolted for Shield. Rusty was already gone somehow but the shield was still on the ground. I ran to grab my bags where I had some medical stuff and a blanket. I wrapped Shield in the blanket tightly and put him on my back. I wanted to get out before Rusty got back. “What is happening?” Shield had woken up. I'm sure me carrying him wasn’t helping his pain. “I’m taking you home.” “I think I need to puke.” “I wouldn’t if I were you.” that didn’t work he ended up falling off and puking there. “Well I guess this is just as good a place to check.” I unwrapped the blanket and it was clear he needed bandages or he wasn’t making it home. “This is probably going to hurt.” “Why?” “Because the bandages have to be tight.” “Could we just not have bandages then.” “I think your father would like you home alive.” I pulled the bandages from my bag and started to wrap them around Shield everytime he yelped. I died a little more. I had let this happen, it was my responsibility to protect him and I failed that. “Done.” “Good gah my head hurts.” “Get some sleep, kid, it'll keep you from feeling pain.” “The pain keeps me awake.” He started to cry. I knew he was in serious pain. I could see it in his eyes. “Ahh dammit kid what do you want from me? I'm trying my best here.” “Just make it go away!” We stopped and I let him back on the ground. I embraced him in a hug which he didn’t fight and we just sat there. He cried until there were no more tears and didn’t stop there. He cried until he finally fell asleep at nightfall. “Alright let’s get you back home kid.” I put him back on my back and walked the rest of the hour and thirty minutes home. When I got back everyone was asleep except for our barracks. They were still searching. Shining was back he must have just gotten in as he was taking his armor off. I walked behind him to Shields bed and placed him down trying not to wake him. I sat down on his bed. “Shining.” I whispered “What!” “Quiet down, he's asleep.” he started running over but I stood up “What happened to you two.” “Rusty kidnapped us.” “I’ll kill him.” I moved out of his way so he could see his son. His eyes went wide and he embraced his son in a hug. I unwrapped the blanket surrounding Shield this gave a more clear view of his horn. “Rusty did that?” “Yeah. I never wanted this.” “So he won’t even be able to cast anymore spells.” “Give him rest. He needs it after today.” “What did Rusty want from you two?” “He wanted Shadows Journal. He said it had secret spells in it and he wanted it from me. Shield was just ‘persuasion’ as he said.” “Sick buck!” “I should’ve given him the journal.” “What? No!” “So this is fine?” I looked at Shield and back to Shining my hoof pointed to Shield. “No it's not but it would've been a lot worse for both of you if he got the book.” “I have to change these bandages hopefully without waking him then i'm going to sleep somehow.” “I’ve got the bandages go to sleep.” “Are you sure?” “Yes.” And now here I am not sleeping because I can't. I figured writing this down would help but I realize now how stupid I was. I only hope tomorrow will provide some relief. Shield is up again, his horn is killing him. I wish I could make his pain go away but I can't. I'll search this book until I go blind for a spell to help him. Author's Note Remember all of my stories are connected Shadows Go Cold (What started all my stories) Shining Armor Chronicles
HelplessThe last few days have been rough. We lost one of our best soldiers, we were overrun by Abhor and then me and Shield were kidnapped. Shield got the worst of it with a broken horn and some other injuries. He's out for a while. He's in so much pain he often starts randomly crying during the day. Doc says there might be some more damage beyond the horn itself. I would do anything to make him feel better. I know Shining would too but I have a weird feeling almost like the end is near for one of us three. “Your son’s crying again. I've run out of ideas at this point.” “Alright thanks Blue, tell him I'll be there in a second… oh and tell copper he left his armor out last night.” “He did it on purpose it’s actually a good idea ill have him tell you later.” Shining was waiting for Cadance and Flurry Heart. I hoped they would be able to take his and Shields mind off the pain. “Hey shield, you have some visitors.” I said as his family walked in. “Mom!” he said as he shot up. He was so happy he forgot that he was on the bottom bunk of the beds. I’m sure you could hear his cries from across the castle. “Go get the kid some ice Raider.” “In what?” “A bag. What do you think?” “From where?” “Raider!” “On it!” “Make it snappy.” Cadance was giving Shining a pissed off look. I wondered why but I figured I'd refrain from asking. I was getting uncomfortable to many ponies in one room all at the door. I knew that what was happening to Shield was my fault. I didn't want to be here when Cadance found out. “Excuse me.” “Oh sorry Blue.” I squeezed by before he could even move. I kept running until I almost ran into Dash. “Where you going so fast?” “On a walk.” “Looks more like a run.” “I’m running from a place I don’t want to be.” “Blue are you alright?” “No and I just want to be alone.” “What's wrong? Let me help.” “I just want to be alone right now.” “Well where are you going?” “The forest.” I ran off again hearing her say something about being alone. It took me a second to navigate to the way out of the castle but I finally was able to navigate to the forest and be alone. “Blue!” Just what I didn’t want. “What!” “I just want to know what’s wrong. I mean you just scared the crap out of Rainbow Dash.” “How much more simple does it need to be! Have I not told you multiple times what the issue is?” “Why does it bother you this much? I told you it’s not your fault!” “You don’t know the whole story!” “Then tell me!” “I left the decision to your son whether or not Rusty got the journal. That's what got him hurt.” “And so? It was his decision.” “At the end of the day I was responsible for what happened to him and I failed.” “Wait where are you going?” “On a walk!” “You’ll die in the forest alone.” “Hopefully.” I knew Shining would run after me so I made a wall to stop him. I forgot that walls are hard. “What the hell!” I turned around and went pale. A piece of his horn had broken off. “Dammit shining!” “Why?” “What is with your family and losing their horns? Don’t move.” I said as I put the piece where it belonged and used magic to reattach it. “You just fixed my horn, why can’t you fix my son’s.” “With you all I did was reattach it. With him I'd have to fully rebuild it. I don't have the power nor the know how. There’s a spell to do it in Shadow’s book but for some reason it explicitly says not to use it on you or your family. Now please, I want to be alone!” “Blue!... don’t kill yourself if not for me or the guard for my son he still likes you ya know.” “Yeah.” I headed into the forest and just kept walking straight. I got lost in thought about Rainbow Dash. I had grown to like her. She was nice and liked what she did. We had a lot in common. “Ya shouldn’t be here kid.” I looked up at a Jet black pony standing in front of me. “Who are you?” “You don’t know?” He lifted his head to reveal a scar across his left eye and a broken white horn hidden by his hood. “Shadow Colt.” “Yes sir.” “Rusty said you were dead.” “You believed him?” “Yeah with the way he said it and how he is, I honestly did.” “Never trust one whole hurt you even if what they say is something they would do.” “What happened to you?” “Rusty is my brother, what once was sibling foolery turned into war.” “You’re marked as a hero in the Guard. Ponies strive to be you!” “Why?” “Your story of being the best and saving Canterlot and probably Equestria as a whole.” “I told them not to do that. I never wanted to be known as that. I didn’t even do what they said I did. I never saved anything. I failed and went into hiding then pawned my problems off on you.” “We wouldn’t be here right now if you didn’t do what you did.” “You need to go kid.” “Why won’t you come with me?” “I won’t come back unless absolutely necessary. If I go back Rusty will attack you guys.” “How do you survive with a broken horn?” “Go back to the days where I had little to no magic, everything was done with hooves.” “Must be hard.” “The earth ponies do it.” “I’m stupid apparently.” “Shield is looking for you. He's with Doc. He got worse. He'll survive and be back to normal in a few days.” “How do you know all this?” “What he has, I was forced to build. I made it with a flaw so that no pony could die from it.” “That's cool and sad.” “You need to leave but before you do take this it’ll save Shining.” He tossed me a journal looking identical to the one I have. “Save him?” “He’ll end up here in the forest trapped by Rusty. That journal is almost identical but everything on the inside is flawed; it won't read the same and any spell he tries will fail. He’s dumber than you think and won’t test anything inside.” “How is he so smart but so dumb?” Before you go though, how is everyone?” “I’d have to assume you know about Shining and his family. Twilight has been alright. I don’t talk to Celestia and Luna hasn't been the same since Govend died.” “Wait Govends dead!” “I figured you knew.” “Anyone else?” “In all we lost Salt, Govend, Ace- “Ace is dead!?” “Yeah and it's my fault I'm sure.” “How?” “I made a comment about how you died and they found him dead later on in the day.” “Damn I should've never left, never pawned my problems off.” “How did Govend die?” “Mangled by the Abhor.” “Close it’s Aboori, they're basically the undead.” “What the hell “You know what, I'm going back with you but not like this.” He stood there for a second and I watched his black body turn to brown and his horn virtually disappear. “That’s a change.” “Yeah now no one will know it’s me, not even my brother.” “Good.” We left abruptly. He still wore his hood. It was similar to a rain jacket but it wouldn’t stop rain. “My brother won’t stop until he gets what he wants, sadly he’s patient meaning you guys will have to strike first.” “What happened to you?” “What do you mean?” “Clearly something bad happened that made you leave the guard.” “I didn’t want to leave the guard but it’s hard to do work like that when…uh just watch out for my brother.” “Come on man, I won't tell anyone.” “It’s not that I’m just not the same anymore.” he lifted his jacket i thought he was a pegasi but he was an alicorn it’s just his wings were gone. “That’s not all that got messed up.” he lifted his back leg and vigorously shook it. The prosthetic fell off. “Your brother did that to you!” “Yeah brotherly love right.” “Let’s hurry it up.” “Will you do me a favor?” “What?” “Go talk to Luna when we get back and do it as Shadow Colt.” “Speaking of Luna, why don’t you guys talk? She loves talking to the guards.” “Shadow, will you talk to Luna please.” “You have to go with me. I have to do something I don't want to do so you're doing it too. I also know you’re afraid of griffons. I saw the night you were with Garring.” “You saw it and didn’t do anything!” “That was the first Aboori attack and there was nothing I could do.” “That’s crap!” “Hey look trust me I would have done something griffons are the best hell Govend was my best friend.” he stopped “Huh, now I’ll never see him again.” he stared off into the distance and I laid a wing on him. “Don’t pity me, I did this to myself now let’s go you have to see Shield.” We hurried back in silence the whole time. Shining always said we’d get along but I'm not seeing it. “Shining!” “Blue! What the hell were you doing!” he ran towards me but stopped “Who is that?” Shadow had stopped behind me looking down so his hood covered him “A new guy I think.” Shining walked closer but stopped right beside me. That's when Shadow showed himself. “Damn you look old as hell Shining.” “Shadow!” shining wrapped him in a hug causing Shadow to yell in pain. “You alright?” “I never got to recover, things still hurt shining. That’s why I never came back to the guard. I couldn't do it anymore.” “Why did you leave? You left me, your own group, Govend.” shadow took off his jacket to reveal his wings “This is why Shining! And that’s not the only reason!” he shook his leg again to reveal it was missing. “I’m sorry I didn't know you usually always shake it off like nothing.” “Think about what you say to the guy thrown to the ground from 200 feet before you say it! What the hell were you thinking? I said to leave! Your ass got me hurt!” I interrupted their festival and asked how Shield was doing. “He’s dying Blue.” “Your son will be fine. Shining, I only know because I had to build what he’s got, it won't get worse than it is now.” “How did Blue not get it?” “I don’t know. Has he ever had changeling fever?” “Yeah, I had it not too long ago.” “Could be why it’s just a worse version of that.” “What made you come back?” Two things, one Rusty has it out for you and your son and two apparently I have another brother and a sister.” “How do you not know?” “Rusty definitely had something to do with it.” The door to Shields' room opened and Doc walked out his face changed from worry to anger in a second. “Get out of my office!” “Yes sir.” Shadow walked out and we just stood there shocked looking at Doc. “Your son was asking for you.” “What the hell just happened?” “Long story, not enough time. You might as well take him, I can't do anything.” “Thanks doc I guess we’ll go.” he went to get Shield and I went to find Shadow “Over here.” It was dark out by this time so all I could see was his broken horn “The bunk above me is open, go take it and get some rest.” “Before I do that I want to know two more things.” “Go ahead.” “How are Flash and Spike?” “Spike has an issue with trust. I think he only talks to Twilight and Shining. flash is… well… broken he doesn't allow anyone to feel for him and his group in the guard while they get the job done isn’t the best.” “He was never the best leader but he was on par with shining.” “Not even close now.” “I knew emotional damage did that to ponies but I never thought it would be him.” “It’s more than emotional damage.” “Oh I thought you ran away again Shadow.” Shining carried Shield on his back he was asleep which was good he hadn’t gotten any for two days. “Don’t use that name around anyone other than us, do you understand?” “Yeah sorry.” “Looks like I have some rekindling to do. I'll start tomorrow. I'd think everyone’s in bed by now.” “All except for Luna.” I said a little too ecstatically. “You just want to see me uncomfortable don’t you Blue?” “You uncomfortable? I’ll be the uncomfortable one.” We walked back to the castle. We weren't far but it stayed silent the whole time. When we made it back Shadow made friends again with Flash and Twilight; at least it seems he did. We went and talked to Luna. He requested extra protection on Shining and his family as well as Twilight to my surprise it was granted. I went to sleep not long later as it had been a long day but i was awoken by Shield “What happened?” “Huh? Oh you fell asleep in Doc’s office you’ll be alright kid don’t worry.” “I’m dying aren’t I.” “What gave you that idea?” “I heard Doc talking about it.” “You’ll be ok trust me go back to sleep you need it.” “When will my head not hurt and my legs feel right again.” “Soon.” he winced as he tried to roll over, his horn had become visibly darker. “Do you need anything Shield?” “No, I'm good.” movement at the end of my bunk had me questioning my sight “Shield, did you see that?” “Yeah, It was probably Shadow. It's ok.” I decided to get up to see what it was. When I got to the end of the bed I put my hoof on the figure. It was hard but it moved. “Shadow is that you?” I looked up to see two Glowing green dots. It moved with unmatched speed disappearing into the darkness unsure of what I just saw. I decided to go back to bed. I figured it was just my brain playing tricks on me. I laid back down and closed my eyes. There was a presence close to close. I opened my eyes just to look around and make sure. I’d rather be crazy than right but I was right at the farthest corner of the rom the green eyes were back. “Shield.” There was no response . “Shield.” I looked over only for a second as I heard steps. The eyes were closer now only three bunks away. What was this, a horror movie? Had I been transported onto the set of a movie. “Shield.” I wasn’t whispering anymore but I wasn’t yelling yet. I couldn't keep my eyes open anymore. I blinked. Two bunks away “What the Buck man!” I figured if I kept my eyes on it the thing wouldn’t move. I ripped off the covers getting ready to make a move. They blocked my vision of the thing. It was there right in front of me. It wanted me to blink. It was a staring contest but with dire consequences if I blinked my eyes burned with no end they watered with an unending flow. The green eyes stared into my soul. I involuntarily blinked. I saw him move before my eyes even closed, his impatience getting the best of him. He hit my exposed neck first pain shot through my body as I tried to yell but I couldn’t when my eyes opened he was gone. I could tell I was bleeding a lot. Not wanting to scare Shield, I got up to get Shining. “Hey you alright kid?” It was Shadow. I was unsure if he could see me but I shook my head no. “Alright I've got you just hang in there.” I stood there wavering back and forth as he scrambled down. “Where are you hurt?” I tried to say something but the more I did the weaker I got “Let’s get into the light.” he guided me out where there was a full moon “Oh shit kid hang in there. Nevermind.” He was right. I was starting to shake, it was taking everything I had to stay upright. He scooped me up onto his back and rushed to Doc. “Hang in there kid were almost there.” My vision faded but I could still hear. “Doc! This is an emergency!” “It better be a damn good one! Oh crap where did you take him that got him this hurt!” “I didn’t take him anywhere. It was in the barracks.” “Yeah sure! Get him in here!” “Whatever it is got him in the throat, real good Doc.” “Clearly! Was it Aboori?” “I don't know it was gone by the time I saw him.” “He won’t talk again ever.” That was the last thing I remember. I woke up in the Hospital Copper Blade by my side and another figure in the corner. “Hey Blue!... don’t talk, it'll only hurt.” I gave an awkward wave while I laid my other hoof on my neck. It hurt a lot. The figure in the corner finally moved. A Griffon got up and walked over to the other side of my bed. A calm gentle voice came from him. “Hello, can I get you anything?” I tried to signal that I wanted something to write with. “Food? Doc said you can’t eat anything right now.” I shook my head and looked around for anything to write with but there was nothing. “Get him something to write with that’ll help.” I shook my head to say yes “Alright I'm on it Rainbow dash wanted to see you is that ok.” I didn't know how to say that I wanted to wait so I just said no. The griffon walked out when he came back. I could see rainbow Dash peeking into the door worried. “Here you go my name is Goring. By the way, I'm the new guy in your group.” “Nice to meet you.” I wrote on the pad I wanted to say something so bad but even the slightest change in my throat hurt like hell. “Shining will be in soon. He has to talk to Shadow.” I forgot about Shadow “Get Shadow in here when you can please.” I rather hastily wrote on the pad. “I’ll see what I can do.” Copper left to go get shadow and I had Goring go get Dash. It took a minute but she came in. “Blue… what happened?” the night flashed through my head “I don’t want to talk about it.” I wrote on the pad. Just thinking about it made me breath heavy. “That’s fine. They’re thinking of letting you go.” “What? Why?” My brain was filled with questions as I wrote that on the pad I wasn’t disabled I only lost my voice. “They can’t talk with you. You can’t call for help.” “That doesn’t matter, there are other ways to do that.” my brain raced with questions. Having to write everything on a dumb pad made it incredibly hard to ask them. “I’m worried for you Blue. What if you go out there and get hurt?” I paused for a second I didn’t know she cared that much about me “You care that much about me?” “Of course I do, you're cool you still owe me a flight time with you.” I smiled and a laugh tried to make its way out. I grit my teeth and clutch my throat rolling into my pillow trying everything to make the pain subside. “Sorry Blue.” I held up a hoof trying to let her know it was ok while I laid in pain. I felt her wing rest on my back. I understand why flash didn’t like it. I felt weak and helpless under her wing. “Now that I know somepony cares, maybe I'll be a bit more careful.” I still laid face in the pillow trying to get the pain to subside “I’m sure you have a family that cares for you.” “My family abandoned me. The only reason I'm alive is because of the guard.” it was the hard truth. If it wasn't for the guard I'd be dead and now to think I was getting booted. “I never knew Blue. I'm sorry I didn’t mean to bring it up.” “You weren’t ever supposed to know it's ok.” “I’ve got Ice!” “I’m calling you Ice Raider from now on.” I wrote on the pad he saw it and chuckled. I never asked for ice but I hoped it would help my throat. “Goring got Shadow and Shining, it's up to you who comes in first.'' A quick thanks and he's out. With the pad I told Rainbow Dash to send Shining in. She gave a worried smile then exited. Shining came through the door before it even shut. “How are you feeling Blue?” “Just great!” The pad was getting full so I flipped the page. “I wish I was up, maybe it would’ve been me.” “Don’t! you have a family to talk to. I don't.” “What do you mean you have family don’t you?” “No they abandoned me, if it wasn’t for the guard I wouldn’t be here.” he looked at me sorrow in his eyes. “Have you heard yet?” “Yes.” “I'm trying to get them to drop it. It's between Twilight, Luna, and Celestia.” “They can’t keep you out, you're my boss, you have to have a say in this.” “I wish I did. I’ll send Shadow in." I wrote thanks and he left. Shadow stuck his head in the door. “How ya doin?” “Making it.” “I wish I could’ve helped you more.” “Are you planning on walking in?” “You want me to?” “Yeah, I'm not mad at you.” “I didn’t want to. I brought all of this on you guys.” “Your brother brought it on us.” “Yeah I know but I had the chance to stop it and I didn’t.” He sat down burying his face in his hooves. He sat there for quite a few minutes when he looked up and a fire raged in his eyes. “Whatever you’re thinking isn’t a good idea.” “But it may be the only good one!” he got up heading towards the door trying to get his attention while waving wasn’t working so I squeaked out any sound at the disapproval of my throat. He stopped “Why kid?” He turned around to look at me. Having forgotten that the pad was there I tried to say something else. “Stop, stop, stop, stop! You’re going to hurt yourself worse than you already are.” he picked up the pad “Use this kid, save your voice, let it heal. I know that hurt throw something, don't hurt yourself. I’ll go get Doc see if he can help you out here.” i rushed a question on the pad “What happened between you and Doc the day you came back?” “It’s too long of a story for right now ask when you’re not hurt.” rushing another question he stopped me. “Slow down kid. Look, I have to go try and talk to Celestia get some rest. I'll be back later.” He left and with silence in the room I fell asleep again. Author's Note Remember all of my stories are connected Shadows Go Cold (What started all my stories) Shining Armor Chronicles Shadow Colt
