Vacation in Ponyvile

by Chaos_Silver

Rating: teen
Tags: Original Character, Royal Guard, Adventure, Shining Armor, Violence, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Death, Main 6, Changelings
Length: 7390

Thunderclap, pegasus from Royal guard, temporarily suspended from service due to his injuries. He accepts his friend's permission to visit the friendliest town in Equestria. What could possibly go wrong?

Thunderclap, pegasus from Royal guard, temporarily suspended from service due to his injuries. He accepts his friend's proposal to visit the friendliest town in Equestria. What could possibly go wrong?

Life in Ponyvile continues in its own manner, shadows of the Equestrian past lurking in Everfree, changelings weaving their intrigues at the very border of Equestria, while entire Royal guard finds itself at the center of the conspiracy and a certain Lord of Chaos already conjured himself a bucket of popcorn.

Published 2023-06-23 01:00:01 UTC
Last updated 2023-07-17 20:30:04 UTC

Chapter 1

He was standing at the top of the small cliff facing the sunset. Red eyes were scanning horizon ready to track any foe who'd dare to lurk around. Wind rushed through dark-blue coat and the white mane. Thunderclap, a private pegasus of the Royal Border Guard was on duty at changeling border, holding his spear tightly. And he was really bored.

"Never mind me, just looking for somepony to kill, right?"

Pegasus shook his head and began staring at lands behind the borderline with double strength. Not like this cursed wasteland was very helpful in shoving occasional grim thoughts away. It seemed that there were no life at all. No plants, no insects except changelings themselves, no pretty little critters what always put smile on his face. And, if stallion had to be honest about judging voice in his head, (which sounded awfully like his father's) - it wasn't wrong. He was a murderer after all.

That was rather surprising trait for the typical pony, wasn't it? Even for one serving in the guard. Well he wasn't just a guardian, but a Border Guardian. According to the history records, small division was founded even before the Wonderbolts, but had a much less glorious fate. Yet still, guards of this half-forgotten detachment got better payment and helmet with traditional black crest. Vile necessity to kill was also included, as changelings were trying to raid outposts from time to time. Once in two or three weeks.

Of course, not every clash ended with deaths, not even one of ten - usually there were just a few wounded on each side. But he'd already ended four lives, for five years of his service. Was it a lot? Well, it was about a hundred times less then great Commander Hurricane's personal killstreak, but four more than normal pony should have. Actually, it was four more than most of his brothers in arms had. Fighting and violence were not the way of ponies, Thunderclap was sure of that.

His ears twitched at the sound of loud yawn behind. Moment later Misty Trail, unicorn mare, was standing next to him rubbing her eyes. She forced tired smiled in greeting. "Night shift arrived. Again. Yay." Then she yawned again.

Smiling back, pegasus was ready to leave, but stopped his gaze at the mare for a moment admiring her shining black coat and slim figure. After the day of staring at endless valley of gray soil it was a most pleasant sight. Than he glanced for the last time at the landscape around and shot to the air, heading to the 'Blueberry' outpost.

Well, maybe an "outpost" was a little bit a big word. Single small farmhouse with just enough place for sixteen sleeping places, half of which were hammocks, small storage and tiny kitchen. It was surrounded by palisade with single wooden watch tower. Blue equestrian flag with image of black and white alicorns was flying above it. Not like there was need for more serious fortifications. This places were almost idyllic and the lull that had been going for a month a half reinforced this impression.

Thunderclap flew over the palisade. He still had some time before curfew. Of course, guards were encouraged to spend their free time reading, exercising or polishing their armor, but he had some better thoughts on this topic. Most of the other guards too.

Pegasus entered garrison kitchen, where other nine guards from day shift were already sat. Small room was quite cramped at the evenings but he know that there was a free place for him behind a common table. Smiling, Thunderclap waved at big earthpony stallion.

Red Delicious indeed was big. The biggest pony Thunderclap have met in his life. Delicious himself claimed to have a cousin, who was even bigger, but pegasus doubted that it was possible. Red waved in response with wide grin on his muzzle.

"Okay, all players here and almost ready. Let the 'blueberry evening game club' begin!" laughed one of the other guards - Lucky Hoof - while shuffling cards. "Here we can shame best houses of Canterlot!"

Discordant chorus of chuckles was his response.

Most of the guards present already ditched they armor... but everypony was carrying their spears. 'Guards training manual' stated that guardspony must always carry their main weapon at leg's length. It was, actually, the only rule that was always followed at fear of your old instructor from training camp manifesting out of nowhere and sending your cleaning the floors (and not only them) with toothbrush.

"Any reason for good mood?" Thunderclap asked the he reached his place and bumped hooves with Red and other players.
"For a smile, the reason in not really necessary. Although, I have one." Red said, looking into his purse. Pegasus smirked at a thought that his pal was probably counting how many bits he could afford himself to lose tonight. Earthpony's eyes sparkled with joy as he began talking again with warmth in his voice. "Got a letter from family. I'm going to visit them in Aplleloosa and be back like... in a month or so. Maybe they'll convince me to take longer leave. It's been a while."

View of Red Delicious talking lovingly about his family filled pegasus with controversial emotions. Thunderclap was glad for his friend, but his absence mean long and boring time for him. It wasn't like he had bad relationship with other guards or had problems with socializing, just... Thunderclap wasn't sure how to put his thoughts right, but speaking with Red Delicious was, subconsciously, much more easy than with other guards. Maybe, just maybe, it was try because they both share a same... flaw? sin? Murdering. Willingly taking other creature's life.

"And you?" Emerald green eyes collided with Thunderclap's rubies, pushing pegasus back to reality. Red had muzzle of a pony who suddenly remembered something gravely important.

"Me?"

"Your family, Thunder? I mean, I haven't seen you taking leave to visit relatives in... ever."
Pegasus felt his spine cowering with cold sweat. He felt how his flank, right there his cutiemark, featuring crossed daggers, was, ached. Swallowing, Thunder looked away from Red. "What's with them? They're in Canterlot. Pretty sure that they're totally fine"

"More like he is in Canterlot."

Pegasus was sure that his nervousness was easily noticeable. Small part of him deep inside found this moment of confusion rather amusing. Come to think of it, he wasn't afraid of fights, he wasn't afraid of seeing blood. Yet, he did felt uncomfortable when he was forced to speak about his family. It was funny in twisted sense of the word.

"I know, it's your profile, since you an Apple, but I'm fine with my family problems. No plans to visit them any time soon", Thunderclap said, desperately trying to find a way to change the subject. For a brief moment Red's muzzle looked like pegasus just insulted him along with fifty generations of his ancestors. Thunderclap could understand the disapproval as his own words and tone were a little more harsh than it was necessary. Pegasus was ready to apologize, but, to his surprise, Red smiled. "True Apple values family the most, but this is your family." Stallion shrugged. "One day, you'll tell me. I'm sure."

"Well... Maybe." Thunderclap grinned back, hoping that it looked at least a little bit sincere. His friend decided not to push the matter further. For now, at least. It was good.

What was even better is that their little chat came unnoticed by their brothers in arms. Guards were engaged in their own conversations, gathering around the table. Lucky Hoof was one, who sat alone with look of annoyance on his muzzle. He'd prepared cards some time ago and now was fiddling piece of cloth in which guards put their bats. In fact, it wasn't just some random piece of cloth. It was a hat. Jaeger's hat.

Jaegers. He never actually met one. Rumors said that it was a type of light infantry, elite changeling fighters that were experts in a unique changeling military doctrine. Whatever it supposed to mean. Thunderclap had no idea how this hat come to be here in the first place. Maybe it was trophy, lost by clumsy guard from squad that was stationed here before.

"Alright, gentlecolts! Shall...

"INCOMING!"

Long high-volume screeching cut in the guards years, followed by dull explosion and flash of toxic-green light, which blinded guards for a second.

Body reacted faster then mind. With blow of the wings Thunderclap rocketed trough the window along with two fellow pegasi. He was followed by short commanding shouts and . He managed to notice burning watchtower fresh-digged tunnel in the ground, which was opening wider and wider like maw of some monster, right before he found himself in cloud of gray smoke. Few pairs of changeling eyes were glowing around. Pegasus chose his target and raised his spear. Inhale...

"For the Princesses!" Shouted Royal Guards, charging at their foes.

"For the Queens!" That was hissing changeling's response.

Thunderclap rammed into the flying warrior knocking him out of cloud and stab him with spear. Tried to stab at least. Weird blue-skinned changeling covered in heavy green armor repelled his strike with blade, the handle of which he held with his teeth. Pegasus barely managed to pull back as the dark steel pierced the air far too close to his neck.

Blades. Changelings loved blades. Equestrian combat doctrine always gave preference to spears. At the same time changelings preferred to solve problems a little bit more close and personal. But here in the air advantage in close quarter combat didn't mean much.

Angry smile crossed Thunderclap's face as adrenaline rushed through his veins. He felt the sky. He felt every single gust of wind, even the weakest ones. He felt the movements of the air disturbed buy changeling's wings. Pegasi were ruling the skies, not these love-eating insects!

He dived down, his spear aiming for bug's belly. Block. Then he strike again. To move and to strike. Again and again. Changeling was spinning on the spot deflecting blows from all directions while hissing desperately. His armor was slowing him.

"Parry this!" Thunderclap flipped in flight kicking changeling warrior in the helmet with his hind legs. Pegasus heard muffled hissing curses as changeling tried to recover from this strike, his helmet pushed to the side. Moment later pegasus poked a hole in bug's wing with the spear.

Changeling roared in pain. For a moment it looked like he could keep flying. But then his wing torn completely. With a yell, iron clad figure fell from the skies.

Thunderclap shuddered. They weren't very high - twenty meters, maybe thirty. But still... it had to be painful.

Pegasus took a look around. Despite the sudden attack things weren't looking bad. They were definitely winning in the sky. No surprises here. Other flying changelings, who weren't wearing heavy armor had already opted for retreat. Thunderclap looked at his fellow guardians below. Before battle could begin, it broke up into several one-on-one duels.

"Just accept it, you're enjoying this"

Then he saw something strange. Changeling without visible weapon, wearing blue robe, which was covered with shining jewels like tree on Heart's Warming. He was sneaking around main battle, probably carrying truly vicious plans in his head. Not a bad target. Thunderclap folded his wings, ready to dive bomb strange creature.

Fifteen meters. Correct the course. Ten meters. No spear, just knock him out with hooves. Five meters... Miss?!

Changeling dodged. In the last moment he saw shadow of diving pegasus and, jumped aside, with enviable grace, making Thunderclap to stomp the ground. Their eyes met. Changeling smirked. He winked at pegasus, mocking, and ignited his horn, disappearing in flash of pale grin light.

"What the..."

"We're not done yet, pony!"

Pegasus turned back. His eyes widened with shock. Changeling from before was alive! Both his carapace and cuirass had holes in multiple places and covered with green blood, his horn was broken, helmet disappeared. And yet he was alive! He was standing right before Thunderclap, with dark blade stained with red.

Fresh blood.

For a moment they were facing each other. And then changeling charged. He was fast, too fast for somecreatyre that should be half-dead. And now distance was on his side. Thunderclap backed away, deflecting blows with spear shaft. One strike avoided defense leaving a cut on his foreleg. Changeling grinned.

With each stroke of the sword, pegasus retreated more and more. He couldn't take off - there wasn't enough time. And he couldn't continue either, as with each block his legs were getting more and more numb. Changeling's terrible wounds weren't affecting him at all!

Then he saw it. An opportunity, his chance to win. Whilst making a swing changeling raised his blade too high. Breach in defense. Thunderclap gripped the spear with all strength that was left. Steel whistled through the air.

Changeling warrior stopped. Thunderclap's spear pierced unprotected skin between helmet and cuirass from bottom to top. Light left his eyes, shining blue skin faded to normal black like malfunctioned spell. Dead. Now for sure.

Yeah. He did it again.

Pegasus felt a sudden growing pain. He lowered his gaze only to see changeling's blade in his own chest. Dark steel cut through the gold-adorned armor like it was made of paper. Sounds of battle began to flew away, like his ears were filled with water. Thunderclap felt the taste of blood in the mouth. Was it similar to his enemy's pain?

Falling to the knees Thunderclap saw Red in the middle of the fight, crossing steel with another "blue" changeling. One normal black bug was tying to crawl away from earthpony bleeding. Somepony was screaming something about... reinforcements?

And then his mind surrendered to the darkness.

Author's Note

Phew, the first chapter I've ever published. I hope you enjoyed it and that the story will not disappoint you in the future! I'll be glad if you let me know your opinion about first chapter.

Chapter 2

Fragment of correspondence between Green and Blue hives royal offices. Top Secret.

My dear Yaria,

I am not quite sure , what to think about your new toys. Their increased physic capabilities surely came at cost of mental ones. How else could you explain that all of them managed to die at the first opportunity? Despite that troubling side of current operation, I shall notice that your 'specialists' performed quite well. Surprisingly well, I might say. Work at both projects shall be continued.

Chrysalis.

This was how death looked like? Black nonexistent void? Endless ocean of black without body and ability to move? And silence, complete silence, so he could spend eternity recollecting mistakes of his life until every last bit of sanity left him. But why the void was so warm? And why did death smelled like herbs? Then Thunderclap heard loud snoring right beside him.

He definitely was alive.

Seconds later sharp pain in his chest prove it completely, satisfied smile from muzzle of half-asleep pegasus. With moan pegasus opened his eyes. White walls. Small table near the head of his bed. Second bed was standing near the opposite wall, where somepony hidden under thick blanket was sleeping. Rather loudly sleeping.

Thunderclap tried to get up, but another flash of pain quickly made him to change his mind. With annoyed hiss pegasus tried, at least, to move a little and lay comfortably - his back was numb and his wings felt like they were made of solid rock.

He also noticed stiffness in his movements. Something beside the pain was hindering him. Pegaus threw his blanket away and lowered gaze. His chest was wrapped in several layers of bandages, covered with sticky blue substance, which was the source of pleasant herbal aroma. Thunderclap exhaled as the memories of one hard-dying changeling came to the surface of his mind.

"I guess, that happens then you get impaled by the sword."

He was alive. This realization relieved the pain, filled his body with warmth even course the pony to giggle a little. As weak as this giggling was, it was followed by strange new sensation. Satisfaction. In the end, pegasus was victorious. No matter how strong changeling had became because of his blue aura, no matter how skillful he was with his blade or how close to death Thunderclap himself had walked.

His ears twitched, as the snoring suddenly stopped. Was he really that loud? Bandaged foreleg appeared from beneath the blanket. It reached to the table and began searching it's surface, if trying to find the alarm. Thunderclap heard his mysterious roommate grumbled like a bear, disturbed during the hibernation.

Familiar red muzzle appeared from under the blanket. Red Delicious shook his messy mane as his sleepy eyes moved around the room. He appeared to be in that funny state, when you're technically awake, but your brain is steel slow and refuses to work. Stallion sighed, scratched his back and yawned loudly. Then Red's gaze finally landed at pegasus.

"Oh. Hi, Thunder", said erathpony and began to rub his eyes, whilst wincing every time he had to move his damaged leg. Then he froze, with disbelief printed on his muzzle. "Thunder? Thunder!"

"I do remember my short name, thank you." Pegasus nodded, small smile on his muzzle widened a little.

"You're alive!" exclaimed Delicious almost jumping from his bed.

"You too." Thunderclap was trying to look as unpurturbed as it was possible, but was unable to shook that goofy grin away. The more he smiled, the more frustrated Delicious became, his face turning redder and redder.

"This," said Delicious while pointing at his bandaged foreleg, "This is nothing. It wasn't even broken. But you... YOU GOT A SWORD IN YOUR CHEST!!"

" 'Tis but a scratch."

Pegasus was smiling like a mad while staring at his friend outrage. Very fake outrage, as a few moments later walls crumbled at the sound of their roaring laughter. Though, loud coughing interrupted it rather fast. Thunderclap breathed sharply in attempt to calm burning pain in lungs.

"At least that's good enough reason to visit Vanhoover. I mean, beside wasting bits on cider and alluring mares. That do you think?" Said Thunder after catching his breath.

"I guess, you can put it that they." Delicious replied, still looking at his friend's bandaged chest. "But there is a problem - we're in Canterlot."

"What?!" Pegasus turned to the window. Where wasn't any reason for Red to lie. Nevertheless, Thunderclap hoped that it was a joke of some sorts, that he would see familiar sight. Sight was familiar, indeed, but not in the way he was expecting.

Vanhoover had a port and was the closest developed city to the changeling border. Hospital used by Royal guard happened to be located near the coastline. Not beautiful touristic one, like in Manehattan, though. Vanhoover's coast was filled with docs, warehouses and shipyards, it smelled of the sea along with a stink of burned coal. Cry of seagulls and the noise of the steamers filled city's days.

Instead pegasus saw the most recognizable building in all Equestria. Its elegant forms were towering over the ancient city's skyline. White walls were covered with flags featuring the image of two alicorns, sunlight was playing on violet roofs. Royal Castle of Canterlot.

Thunderclap exhaled, with mix of confusion and worry on his muzzle. Mostly fist, actually. He wasn't afraid of meeting has relatives, who were probably still residing here. He was sure of it. It would be unpleasant and uncomfortable meeting, but nothing truly frightening. Pegasus even nodded to himself, to make a point. However, Delicious might felt otherwise after their last proper talk. It was yesterday, yes? That brought one very interesting question.

"How long I was out?"

"Five days, I think, more or less. After the fight we were teleported here." Delicious replied.

"By whom?" Thunderclap knew little about unicorn magic, but he did knew that teleportation was complex skill and was pretty much sure that none of the squad unicorns was powerful enough. That wasn't part of guards training, after all. Unicorns serving in Royal Guard were only required to know basic telekinesis to wield their weapon more effective. Even many of high-ranked officers didn't bother to learn something beside it.

"Pure luck and coincidence..." Mumbled the earthpony, as if he didn't hear the question. "You remember that rumor about... "

Red was interrupted by clang of metal. Both ponies immediately turned to the front door in instinctive reaction at armored hoofsteps. Along with sound of metal they heard parts of conversion.

"Yes I will... Laughter is good indicator, isn't it?.. No... They are able to talk and that is enough." It was clear that owner of this voice was talking with somepony else, whose words weren't quite understandable. Thunderclap only managed to notice hint worry in them.

The door shut open as unicorn stallion walked in and instantly closed it in front of somepony in medical uniform. His coat was white, his mane - mix of dark and light blue. Blue eyes were studying lying giards. Shining Armor, former Royal Guard captain and current Crystal Guard captain, one of the happiest husbands in Equestria, prince-consort and prince brother, was looking right at them.
Thunderclap and Red raised their hooves in salutation.

"At ease." Captain said and walked to the window, looking outside. "I suppose you are surprised to see me, soldiers?"

"Our presence in Canterlot is surprising, sir." Pegasus was first to respond.

"You got very lucky guards. Twice. Firstly because of me choosing 'Blueberry' outpost for sudden inspection and that I had proper trained wizard in my entourage." Claimed Shining, unintentionally almost quoting Delicious. Captain was visibly troubled about something, which was unsurprising for Thunder. Stallion of his caliber had to by very busy and, as surprising as it was for captain and prince to visit two injured guards personally he simply must had a good reason for it.

"And what else, sir?"

"You've survived."

"Sir?"

"Ten." Captain's muzzle turned grim, his eyes frightening in their lack of emotion. "Ten good ponies died at 'Blueberry'. Combined with results of other attacks what had transpired that day, it is the highest one-time loss Equestria suffered in decades. Maybe even centuries."

"Other attacks..." Both guards whispered at the same time, giving questioning stares to Shining Armor. Glare that he give them in response was carrying enough information. To put it simply, it stated: "None of your business." Making sure that they understood, unicorn continued.

"I have already received reports of other survivors. Now I need yours. That and you two are sustained from duty during the ongoing investigation, along with other survivors, who were already sent away. Doctors were already ordered to put both of you back on hooves in three days. After that I'll escort you to the train station."

"Investigation?" It was Red who asked this time.

"As you two might imagine, princesses are not were pleased by recent events."

"Shouldn't we be here then? Like witnesses and..."

Captain raised hoof to stop him.

"Politics"

Shining Armor spat the word, his muzzle oozing with disgust. Though he regained his composure fast and continued in official tone. "I am going to pick you up in three days and escort to the train station. Then my work can continue without distractions."

Having said all this captain left the room, finally letting in pretty but visible angered nurse.

Rest of their stay was uneventful. Doctors were visiting them regularly. As it was expected majority of their attention was on Thunderclap. He was put under healing spells twice per day and by the time captain came to pick them pegasus could stand. He was still slow like an old snail when it came to walking and was forbidden to fly for a two weeks.
Shining Armor appeared at the morning of the fourth day right after the breakfast. He wasn't in a mood for talk and looked like pony in need of long nap. Bags under his eyes were big enough to hide an ambush and his lips were repeating his thoughts in barely noticeable whisper.

Captain brought some papers with him. Looking at official order to "Have a nice time. " put smile on Thunderclap's muzzle. It reminded him that he was living in Eqestria after all.

And life in Eqestria was good.

Huge paychecks which both of them received were truly a surprise. Official papers from Royal Treasure held much stoic tone, but still were pleasant. A little shocking even.

"Ten thousands bits. " Thunderclap didn't believed his eyes when he saw the sum for the first time. Truth to be told, he got two times more than Delicious due to near-death experience.

Guards also received their payment for the last month, but compared to the 'bonus'.. Heh.

In silence captain Armor lead then trough morning streets of Canterlot. There were a few ponies outside, mostly shop owners, who were preparing for the opening.

Having brought them to one of the train stations, the Shining said goodbye and hurriedly leftleft still muttering to himself.

"Looks like my planned holiday suddenly become unplanned. That means, I can visit more of my family. Who shall it be, who shall it be... " Earthpony began to slipping to his thoughts.

"I would like your problems.."

"Meaning? You still don't want visit yours?"

Pegasus' cutiemark itched again. "For that wish to appear I need to be stabbed straight to the brain. "

"So you don't have any idea there to go?"

It wasn't true. Thunderclap did think about possible destinations. Manehattan was leading now. Central Park will give him a lot of time to spend with cute little creatures. And as any pony after almost two years near the wasteland he missed something cute. In that case camping seemed as a logical pick but guards had enough of it at their job. He also had heard that new Daring Do book was published.

And bars. They were always an option.

The problem was that pegasus didn't have time to tell any of it to his bud.

"You see, I'm thinking about visiting one.. place before taking train to Appleloosa and I think you might like it." Delicious said slowly, watching carefully for Thunder's reaction.

Pegasus tilted his head, encouraging Red to continue. Manehattan could wait for a few days, he thought.

"So... How about a little trip to the friendliest town in Equestria?"

"Which is? "

From the look that Red gave him, Thunderclap felt like he said something dumb. He followed his friend as earthpony trotted to the nearest ticket office.

"Morning, ma'am. Can you give us two tickets to Ponyvile? "

Chapter 3

"I wasn't expecting that."

Thunderclap nodded at his friend's words while he was adjusting recently bought shirt of coat-matching color, under which was hidden his bandaged chest. Pegasus thought it'll be good idea not to shock other ponies to much, especially if wounds open again.

Guards were sitting at their places in the back of the cart and watched ponies filling the train. Lots of ponies. Endless row of them.

"Well.. " Delicious sounded confused. "I wouldn't be surprised to see bunch of nobles. You know, to get some fancy clothes directly from Rarity, as she lives there. But this... " Earthpony waved in direction of crowd with cameras, maps and brochures and sighed.

Though, both guards could guess the reason. Last time Delicious visited Ponyvile it hadn't been residence of the Princess of Friendship. Still, that much ponies visiting small town at the same time, must be caused by something rather extraordinary. On the other hoof, guards were had no way to hear the news for the last two years, except for the most high-profile, like Twilight Sparkle's coronation itself and attack of Lord Tirek.

Train ride from Canterlot to Ponyvile only took a few hours and guards decided to spent this time the most reasonable way. Asleep.

When the train arrived to Ponyvile Thunder and Red were the last to leave their cart, as the tour groups stomed out like a blizzards made of ponies. Delicious lead his friend through the streets, grunting something under his breath and not paying attention to the legs and tails on which he was trampling. Injured guard tried to be more careful but he also received his dose of curses.

Thunderclap was sure that he was distracted for only a second, whether for the aroma of caramel perfume from passing by mare or for the smell of bakery, but when he turned to earthpony again, Delicious was nowhere to be seen, and pegasus found himself on the street full of unfamiliar ponies.

He lost Red.

Pegasus laughed a little as it was truly ridiculous. He still needed to find his way to Apple family residence. Red had said something about a farm on the outskirts of the Ponyvile. It remained only to find it. Choosing almost a random direction in totally unknown town, Thunder turned off the main street.

Soon Thunderclap felt that, familiar to many, feeling of constant staring, which was only weakening a little when he was slowing down to change a direction. He was watched. He heard whispers from behind. Whispers and...giggling?

Pegasus spun around and jumped towards the moving bushes. With his muzzle twisted from pain in disturbed chest, Thunder parted the branches and saw a 'spy'. Or 'spies' - instead of changeling infiltrator, which was already manifested in part of his imagination, there were three fillies, who looked at guard with confusion in their big eyes and unmistakable expression of caught kids. However, apologizing wasn't their first thought.

"Aww, horseapples! We will never get our spying cutiemarks!" Exclaimed yellow filly with red mane.

"We shouldn't came that close." Little white unicorn said. She also was the one to speak with pegasus, who looked at them with raised eyebrow . "Mister, we are sorry that..

"That you find us!" Unicorn was interrupted by orange pegasus filly with small wings and violet mane. "We'll be better next time!"

Thunderclap chuckled. "And why I am so interesting to you?"

"Your cutiemark." Three fillies almost in unison pointed at his flank

"Yes? What's with it?" His surprise was false. Thunder understood, why they were asking. Not everypony had weapons as a cutiemark. Shields of all sorts were much common sight, though. Pegasus just hoped, that they weren't going to ask...

"How did you get it? "

Of course they did. Oh.. Pegasus scratched the back of his head. Well, he'd told this story so many times to others and himself...

"Well.. I say.. I get it while I was fighting the monster. Scary one. Knifes are here because.. I was armed with kitchen knife. And...after I get it, my father came."

"Neat! " That was the orange filly's reaction.

"He saved you?" Asked the yellow one.

"no"

"Yes."

Fillies exchanged looks.

"I am Sweetie Bell and this are Apple Bloom..." Little unicorn said, imitating gracious bow.

"Howdy!" Yellow earthpony nodded to him.

"... And Scootaloo. "

"Hi!" Pegasus filly waved.

"We are cutiemark crusaders! " Said all fillies proudly.

Thunder titled his head a little, to confirm that their flanks were blank yet. Well, now their sudden interest in him was making more sense. Also he noticed that they were wearing cute small saddlebags, matching colours of their coats. He decide to introduce himself in return.

"Ya one of these nasty tourists?"

"Why nasty? They bring your sister revenue. Mine too." Sweetie Belle asked. She scratched her chin and there was an attempt to calculate said revenue visible in her eyes.

"They are loud! And there's to much of them! And they try to steal Rainbow Dash from me!" Orange pegasus exchange looks with her friends. "Good it's only few days per month. Have no idea how ponies in cities like Las Pegasus live with that kind of pandonium every day! "

"Pandemonium."

"I've said that."

"Not a tourist. Just came with a friend." Thunderclap noticed that girls' attention was drifting away. He leaned forward slightly, addressing yellow filly. He was sure that he knew an answer for his next question. "Do you know earthpony named Red Delicious? He is...hm... red, big and..."

Apple Bloom's smile widened when she interrupted him.

"Mah cousin from Appleloosa! Hm... Ya from the Guard too, right?"

"Yes. And you're an Apple. "

Apple Bloom nodded, smiling.

"Then tell me, please, where do you live? Red, kinda, invited me."

"Friend of family is our friend! " Stated filly proudly, but then suddenly frowned. "Ya can't go to the farm now "

"Why not?"

"Friendship tour is going through the farm. Not much time for guests now... But ya can help us instead! "

Before Thunderclap could react in any way to Apple Bloom's words Scootaloo waved her hoof dismissively.

"Rainbow Dash says that guards are useless! " Orange pegasus claimed. "Em.. No offense, mister.. "

Apple Bloom facehoofed.

Thunder chocked.

"Of course she is."

Luckily, Sweety Bell was way more diplomatic than her friends and changed the subject swiftly. She looked at guardian with the most adorable eyes he'd ever seen. Unicorn even fluttered her eyelashes, which turned to be a little clumsily, as if she was imitating someone's gesture.

"We were thinking that maybe you can help us."

"You've said that." Thunderclap made an effort not to sound offended by Scootaloo's statement, even if it was only a quote. He doubted that he'd succeeded, though.

"Oh? Well, yes.. Maybe you, sir, with your experience can help us with little venture through the Everfree."

Everfree... Was it the forest? The one he'd seen from train window? Why did they need to go to the forest at all? That was strange. Pegasus remembered hearing something from it but couldn't remember what exactly.

Sweetie Bell, who took initiative in this 'negotiations', took small stone from saddlebag and levitated it to Thunderclap. Or maybe it was a shard of dark glass? Whatever, the object was black and warm. Even being a pegasus with no magical abilities, Thunder felt energy radiating from it.

"We found this thing in the forest. And we saw more!" Said unicorn filly with wide smile. " Twilight will be glad to study it."

"Cutiemark Crusaders - geologists! " Shouted two other fillies.

He shouldn't. First of all, they'd just met. Taking responsibility for these fillies wouldn't be right? Or would? Thunderclap was somehow sure that fillies would go to the forest anyway. Of course, it was forest near Ponyvile and all possible threats were already blasted to tartarus by rainbow magical beams... But wasn't he a Royal Guard? Did he not solemnly swear at the initiation in the face of the Princess Celestia herself to protect the inhabitants of Equestria? He was and he did. And he wasn't useless!

So, ignoring part of his mind, convincing him to ran away from this fillies for some reason. Thunder nodded.

"Curiemark crusaders - negotiators!" They exclaimed and immediately turned to check their flanks. Marks didn't appear.

Fillies jumped around him a few times and rushed away. Pegasus followed, smiling. They were simply adorable. Help a bunch of young ponies find their cutiemarks - that should be fun.

After a few hours had passed, Thunderclap thought that he made a right choice. He walked trough the forest behind the fillies, keeping the eye contacts with them. Fillies were joking and talking about their previous attempts to find cutiematks. Some of this stories sounded really exaggerated. Only one thing really troubled him.

His thoughts again and again were slipping to one topic. Royal guard. Being useless. It hurted him. It make his chest twitch in pain more then after blade stab. Thunder took his pride in being guard, even if service at the border was violent from time to time. Thats why ponies thinking that way were getting under his skin.

The worst thing was that they were actually right.

Not taking into account such threats as Discord and Tirek, which were clearly not in the competence of the guards, there were still a lot of things where his colleagues were able to disgrace themselves. Infamous Royal Wedding was the first thing to came in mind. Double shame on heads of thestral Night Guards, who in full force slept through the entire attack along with their mistress.

That time the main work was done by element bearers and Shining Armor and Princess Cadence themselves. The battle could have been avoided altogether if the guards had performed their duties better - half of the guests and spectators were changelings. Entire half!

Negative thoughts aside, he did learn why Ponyvile was so popular today. It was logical, denizens of Equestria wanted to meet their heroes, the element bearers. After coronation of Princess Twilight, amount of pony visiting Ponyvile. Apparently, princess Twilight Sparkle decided to organize that process a little, to put some order in it.

Now huge friendship tours were held twice in month with a beginning in Canterlot. Tour included visiting the edge of the Everfree near Fluttershy's cottage, Carousel boutique, Sugarcube Corner and some other places. Huge feast in Sweet Apple Arcs was held at the end of the day. Meeting the elements was of course possible. However, fillies told Thunder that only half of them were always present - Princess Twilight, being the main organiser, Applejack, as the one in charge of preparations in Sweet Apple Arcks.

And Rainbow Dash of course. With an expression of sincere admiration on her face, Scootaloo talked about the queues lining up to get an autograph from rainbow-maned pegasus, who was glad to perform aerial stunts and pose in front of cameras all day.

Thunderclap could only guess, how this tours should've looked like originally, but he saw the chaotic result. At least princess was glad. Maybe.

After a few more hours of slow walking through the forest, he noticed that the evening was soon to came. Pegasus was ready to call the fillies but unfortunately for him they were making their way through dense thickets He didn't have any other choice but to follow.

He got out on the other side of bushes and saw the ruins. The old castle from which only the side wings remained and the center was almost completely destroyed. it was partially separated from the rest of the forest by a chasm through which a dilapidated heath bridge was thrown.

"We shouldn't be here."

"This ruins are prohibited? " Thunderclap titled his head, looking at the old castle. It seemed familiar somehow. Like he'd saw it once. Maybe in a book?

"No, it's just.. We were heading in opposite direction." Sweetie Bell rubbed her chin. "Let's go back..."

"I-is it me, or it became colder?" Apple Bloom shivered.

Then they saw it. Dark silhouette walking through the gape between the trees. It looked like a ghost from a scary tale - shape of a pony, an earthpony, but constructed of smoke and shadow. Empty black eyes stared at nothing. At first it might have seemed that the creature would pass by, but it stopped by tilting its head in their direction.

Thunderclap did a few steps forward, shielding crusaders from it. He lowered his stance and spread the wings. His nostrils flared, so do his instincts.

"Em... hello?" It was Scootaloo who squeaked from behind pegasus.

"Back. " Said Thunder, watching the creature carefully.

"B-but.."

"Go back. " Guard tried to sound as.. as he can. "I'll follow "

Creature hissed. Its empty eyes found a stones what fillies were holding. It took a step. Another and another, ready to break into a gallop. Black eyes were focused on girls' saddlebags.

Thunderclap jumped to intercept, ignoring pain in chest. In the moment before the strike he wondered - would he stop literal shadow with a punch?..

The thud of a blow dispelled his doubts. His opponent was material enough to be kicked. Good Pegasus slammed shadowpony into the tree. There was no scream of pain, just silent whisper of shadows, regaining their shape. In the place of Thunder's punch dark crystal fell to the ground like a drop of blood.

"Run! "

Thunderclap looked in black pools of shadow's eyes. From his peripheral sight he noticed that fillies didn't move, numb with fear. That means he had to take this fight, to push that thing back from them. Pegasus leaped at the shadow, taking initiative and aiming his hooves at the head. Without weapons, he could only kick and ram the enemy. After missing a couple of blows, the shadow hissed again. But it wasn't going to be a punching bag

Claws appeared on the black hooves. They weren't long, but it was enough to rip open his shirt and grab him. Before Thunder could scream, the shadow pulled him along as if on invisible wings. he waved his own wings in vain, but only succeeded in increasing the pain. Few seconds later he was frown on the ground near the castle walls.

Pegasus jumped to his feet, noting a new source of pain in his wings. He used a second to look around while his opponent was slowly descending to the ground. He didn't like that he saw. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo were running. In his direction and not away! They were already crossing the bridge.

Thunder tried to drive the girls away, but at that moment the shadow creature attacked again throwing aside the castle scratching with its claws. All his thoughts slipped back to combat.

This time Thunderclap just tried not to get hit. He couldn't keep this up, but he couldn't escape either, while fillies were still around. That's not what a guardian would do. That's not what a pony would do.

This sudden thought gave him strength. With a successful kick, pegasus stunned the opponent for a second and jumped back, closer to the castle. Yes, this place was forgotten for Celestia-knows how many years, but the should be something weapon-like inside. Heck, even big brick would be better better than nothing.

Guard didn't expect that his wish would manifest itself so literally.

A moss-covered boulder sliced through the air and struck the shadow's chest. It lost its shape again, for a brief moment turning from pony silhouette to the smoke cloud.

On the ruined wall above him thunderclap saw the fillies. Scootaloo was picking stones out of the wall and tossing them to Apple Bloom who was already aiming with the second improvised projectile. And Sweetie was levitating something in pegasus guard direction. Something shiny?

He examined the object. Rusty armored greave with a folding hoofblade attached. The blade shone with novelty as if it had just come from a forge. Snowflakes swirled around the sword, exuding frost. Was it enchanted?

Creature also noticed fillies, instantly forgetting about the pegasus guard and once again leaping at fillies. Thunderclap wasn't going to have it.

With one flutter of wings, to which his whole body responded with pain, thunderclap rose into the air, appearing above the creature. Double kick of the hind hooves sent the shadow to the ground. Then steel flashed in the light of the beginning sunset.

Whether it was a spell on the blade or the creature used up all his ability to restore itself, but the very first sword blow became the last. The shadow froze at place and collapsed to the ground, crumbling into fragments and spreading into a smoky black liquid.

Thunder coughed, his lungs jumping in his chest. He tried to fold the sword, but the ancient mechanism refused to work and he just threw the blade aside. Breathing heavily, he turned to the fillies, trying to smile.

"Deal... with it..." He managed and went into another coughing fit. "Thanks."

Crusaders didn't respond. They were looking at him from above with wide terrified eyes, shaking a little.

Following their gaze, pegasus lowered his gaze to his chest. The shirt was torn and so were the bandages. Blood was slowly flowing out of the opened wound and new cuts left by claws. There were red spots on the floor where he had just coughed.

Experiencing a strong sense of deja vu, Thunderclap slid down the stone wall.

"Just need to keep my eyes open."

Chapter 4

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