As I flicked through the pages of the book in front of me, I grabbed a generous handful of peanuts from the bowl beside me. Blossom and I had wasted no time making our way to the dining room, where I was finally able to enjoy a proper meal—the first in what was supposedly two weeks, if the rumours were true. Fortunately, the kitchen staff were more than happy to oblige. Once I had eaten my fill, I turned to my escort and asked her to take me to the library.

The moment we arrived, I wasted no time immersing myself in the castle’s vast historical collection. For the next four hours, I tore through volumes covering Pre-Equestrian history, as well as the records of various other cultures. After all, it never hurt to be overprepared—especially when my future interactions with other species were not just likely, but inevitable. It was during this deep dive that I made a startling realization: my reading speed had increased dramatically, and my ability to retain information was leagues beyond anything I had ever experienced. And what I learned? It was vastly different from what I had expected.

For one, history was divided into four distinct eras: The Long Days, The Age of Prosperity, The Days of Dark, and finally, The Years of the Sun and Moon—the latter being what was recognized as the modern era.

The Long Days mark the earliest recorded era of Equestrian history, dating back to when the Three Tribes were still at odds and lived in a distant land to the east. Surprisingly, it was not originally called Dream Valley but Faerûn, loosely translating to "Valley of Heaven." During this time, the tribes maintained a fragile truce, engaging in trade but avoiding unnecessary contact. The Pegasi resided in the mountains near the clouds, Earth Ponies settled in the most fertile lands, and Unicorns built cities and strongholds near large caverns to mine gems and precious stones. Any interactions between them were tense, if not outright hostile.

Sources vary on the length of this era, with estimates ranging from seven hundred to over a thousand years. Its conclusion came when Faerûn began to wither, prompting six ponies—whose names have been lost to time—to seek new land upon recognizing the dire state of their home, aided by an unknown outside influence. This journey led to the founding of Old Equestria and the annual Hearth's Warming tradition.

The Age of Prosperity ushered in an era of remarkable change. To commemorate their unity, the Three Tribes created three sacred lamps, each entrusted to one tribe and revered as holy objects. Three cities—Narathil, Mirrere, and Gondiir, the latter of which was later renamed the Crystal Empire—were built to house these artefacts, symbolizing a brighter future. Following this, two of the original six unifiers ascended to become the first Alicorns, King Helis and Queen Argentum, who devoted themselves to nurturing the fledgling nation.

After their coronation, they established an elite Honour Guard, appointing the first Paladin to lead and protect the crown. These Paladins also trained the general Guard responsible for safeguarding the people. Under their rule, the kingdom flourished for an estimated ten to fifteen thousand years, a golden age of art, literature, and culture that cultivated some of history’s most brilliant minds. The people thrived—but peace was not eternal.

The Age of Prosperity ended abruptly with the destruction of two of the three lamps, the fall of their respective cities, and the sudden disappearance of Helis and Argentum, leaving behind their infant heirs. This ushered in the Dark Days, the shortest but most catastrophic era, marked by a devastating calamity that nearly brought the nation to its knees. The eldest child of the lost King and Queen assumed leadership with a council of advisors, striving to protect the realm. Meanwhile, the youngest heirs were placed under the care of Starswirl the Bearded, the last anointed Paladin. The eldest eventually abdicated, with an unnamed successor taking their place.

Despite the darkness, hope remained. Two legendary brothers, Durin and Vihaan Peredur, hailed as the greatest swordsmen in history, their efforts, alongside the last Paladin Starswirl, helped repel the calamity—but not without losses. Two of Helis and Argentum’s children perished, and the eldest was seemingly captured, leaving only Luna and Celestia. Durin met his end atop the mountains outside the Crystal Empire, prompting the disappearance of his lineage and his brother. Starswirl, a close companion of the twins, searched for them in vain before dedicating his final years to guiding the young princesses. He passed peacefully in his sleep, marking the end of an era.

Thus began the Years of the Sun and Moon—the current era and "modern history"—which is far more widely known. This development aligned with my expectations, conforming to the basic history the show had touched upon.

Years after the calamity's defeat, once Luna and Celestia had fully matured, they gained control of the Elements of Harmony. With them, they imprisoned Discord and Tirek, and Celestia later used their power to banish Nightmare Moon. This ushered in an era of peace and harmony—not as grand as ages past, yet still a testament to the unity forged long ago.

Strangely, however, there was no mention of the Crystal Empire or King Sombra. Nowhere in the historical records was he referenced, directly or even in passing, as if he had been erased from history—or had never existed at all.

The differences between this Equestria’s history and what I had expected were fascinating. But as intriguing as they were, it was the two swordsmen who truly captured my attention.

Having defended the King and Queen from an assassination attempt without seeking reward or recognition, the pair were invited to the royal capital after demonstrating their unparalleled skill. More than simply impressed by their seeming mastery of every known weapon, Helis and Argentum were entrusted with training not only the King and Queen’s Honour Guard and appointed Paladin but also the royal children when they came of age.

Over the years, the twins became not only trusted allies of Starswirl, as previously noted but also close companions to the King and Queen. Their bond grew so strong that they were officially adopted into the royal family as siblings to the crown, as well as providing them with unique titles: Grey Knights. Their renown, forged through years of service, nearly rivalled even that of Helis and Argentum. Together, the four were seen as near-godlike figures—beloved by all, feared and hated only by their enemies.

Though never explicitly stated, it is widely inferred—and generally accepted—that during the Dark Days, it was Durin who assumed leadership when Helis and Argentum’s eldest heir abdicated their role. As the eldest and most seasoned member of the royal family at that time, he was the natural choice to guide them through the turmoil. However, both Durin and his brother remained rather enigmatic figures despite their revelry, as they never publicly disclosed their age, leaving their past shrouded in speculation and legend.

"Huh," I murmured, tossing the last few peanuts into my mouth. "Interesting."

History wasn’t the only subject I needed to brush up on. My mind was occupied with questions I hoped to answer within the towering shelves of books surrounding me. Chief among them was the visual disparity between species—why some resembled humans while others bore distinctly anthropomorphic features. The answers, as I soon discovered, lay within the more medically inclined texts.

All races trace back to what is known as the Original Heritage. Draconians descend from Dragons, Gryphos from Griffons, and so on. However, Pony Folk are unique in that, while other species originate from a single Heritage, they can be traced back to three: Pegasus, Earth Pony, and Unicorn.

This directly connects to my research. Why do Pony Folk appear more human with elven features compared to other species? The answer lies in the influence of Original Heritages on physical traits. The best way to describe it is through genetic dominance. In other species, their Heritage manifests like a dominant gene, making them strongly resemble their origin, even if their connection is weak. Pony Folk, however, inherit their Heritage in a recessive manner, causing them to appear more human with only a single distinguishing feature—regardless of how strong their lineage may be.

Unfortunately, I couldn't uncover the exact reason for this difference, as scientists have yet to determine the cause. One of the world’s great unsolved mysteries, I suppose. Still, it answered at least one of my burning questions about the wider world I now find myself in.

"Sir?"

I looked up from the book to find Blossom standing patiently before me, her helmet tucked under her arm. Closing the tome, I set it atop the small stack beside me and turned my full attention to the soldier in front of me.

"Blossom," I greeted with a small smile. "What did I say about calling me 'Sir'?"

"My apologies," She said, offering a slight bow. "Force of habit."

"No worries, I'm not mad—just not a fan of the word," I replied with a shrug. "Now, what can I do for you?"

"Your presence has been requested in the dining room," She informed me.

"Ah," I hummed, scooping up my stack of books before rising from my seat. "Alright, let's get this over with."

Blossom blinked, tilting her head. "Wait, you’re not going to argue? No resistance at all?"

"Nope," I said, adjusting the books in my grip. "No point in dragging my feet—it was going to happen sooner or later."

"I…huh. Fair point, actually," She admitted. "I just expected some pushback."

I chuckled, walking past her. "I only dig my heels in when it actually matters."

After returning the books to their respective shelves and bidding the kindly librarian farewell, we set off on our trek towards the dining hall. I say "trek" because, despite being indoors, the walk took nearly fifteen minutes. The journey itself wasn’t arduous, but every maid, butler, and guard we passed made way for us, whispering among themselves. No doubt they were murmuring about either this morning’s duel or the attack on Ponyville. Either way, I paid them no mind.

At last, we reached a pair of grand double doors. Blossom stepped forward and gave them a few sharp knocks before stepping back. Moments later, they were enveloped in a golden aura and swung open, granting us entry. The scene inside was exactly what I expected. Seated around the long dining table were Celestia, Luna, Twilight, her friends, and Spike. As the doors closed behind us, the Solar Princess turned her gaze toward me, followed swiftly by the others.

"Percival," She greeted warmly, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Blossomforth."

The woman in question bowed respectfully before stepping back, assuming her position beside the grand double doors. She mirrored the stance of the guard on the opposite side, standing at silent attention.

"Princess," I acknowledged simply, folding my arms across my chest. Though the anger from earlier had dulled, irritation still lingered beneath the surface.

"I'm truly glad you came," She said, gesturing gracefully toward one of the empty seats at the table. "Won't you join us?"

I flicked my gaze between the chair and her expectant expression before sighing inwardly. Unfolding my arms with a soft breath, I moved to take my seat. The atmosphere in the room was...tense. With the exceptions of Pinkie, Rarity, and Applejack, the unease among those gathered was palpable. What stood out most, however, was the way the Princesses themselves seemed ever so slightly unsettled.

Once seated, I let my eyes sweep over them, waiting.

Celestia was the first to break the silence. "There are a few matters we wish to discuss with you, but before we begin, I owe you an apology." She placed her hands gently on her knees, her gaze steady.

"...Go on."

"I have spent much time reflecting, and after some rather... pointed words from my sister"—She glanced toward Luna, whose lips curled into a knowing smirk—"I have come to recognize the error in my actions this morning. I had no right to put you under such stress so soon after your discharge from the hospital, especially in light of all you have done for Ponyville."

She exhaled softly before continuing, her expression earnest. "That said, you must understand that my actions were not without reason. The events of this morning, however abrupt, were necessary. I had several motivations for testing you. For one, there are forces at work—forces that I, as well as many others, believe you may play a crucial role in countering. Those who participated in the test, including my highest-ranking officers, understood the risks and volunteered of their own accord."

Her posture shifted as she leaned forward slightly, resting her hands atop one another on the table. "However, none of that excuses my approach. You were right—I should have spoken to you plainly instead of keeping you in the dark. If you would accept it, I offer you my sincerest apologies."

I sighed, leaning back in my chair and rubbing my eyes before meeting her gaze once more. "While I understand, there were so many different and better ways you could have handled the situation. I...partially accept your apology, but you're going to have to work to get my full trust back."

Celestia's lips quirked upward, her expression touched with relief. "That’s more than I had hoped for. Thank you for hearing me out. To be honest, I wasn’t certain you would."

"As I told Sergeant Blossomforth, it was going to happen eventually. There was no use in avoiding it," I crossed my arms again, my tone even. "So, tell me—what was the real reason your military officers fought me this morning?"

Celestia exchanged a glance with Luna before returning her attention to me. "That ties directly into the other matter we wish to discuss with you."

"And that would be?"

At this, the entire room seemed to shift. The assembled figures leaned in, their attention sharpening. Even the guards stationed around the perimeter appeared subtly more alert, as if bracing for the gravity of what was to come. I frowned slightly, my confusion evident as I looked between Celestia and Luna. The sisters moved in unison, intertwining their fingers and resting them upon the table. Then, Luna spoke, her voice carrying a weight that sent a chill through the air.

"We believe you are one of prophecy."

Bringing my hands to my face, I let out a deep, frustrated groan, my elbows pressing into the table. "It's always a fucking prophecy," I mutter through my fingers, earning a few confused looks from those present. Exhaling sharply, I drag my hands down my face before shifting my gaze toward the Princesses. "Yeah, Twilight mentioned it not long after we talked. Honestly, I didn’t give it much thought at the time."

"You certainly didn’t seem fazed back then," Rarity interjects, her keen eyes studying me. "What changed?"

"I’ve had time to let that little nugget stew," I admit, shaking my head. "And the more I think about it, the less sense it makes. How the hell am I—some random bumble fuck who just so happened to be in the right place at the right time—supposed to be the one mentioned in what I can only assume is some ancient, cryptic text?"

In a flash of deep navy blue, an old, weathered leather-bound book materializes before the Lunar Princess.

"This is Starswirl the Bearded’s personal journal," Celestia explains, though my attention is momentarily drawn to Twilight, who looks moments away from bursting into a frenzy at the mere sight of the book. "Within these pages are several documented conversations between him and Grey Knight Vihaan. Among them are vague references to a 'false brumal.'"

"At first, we assumed it was simply a phrase shared between them," Luna continues, deftly turning the pages, the old parchment rustling softly as she lands on her intended passage before sliding the ancient diary closer, nudging it to me for me to read. "That is, until we came across one of the final entries."

Leaning forward, I carefully examine the elegantly penned yet timeworn words. My brow furrows ever so slightly as, to my astonishment, I realize the text is in Swedish—though its ornate, flowing script gives it an almost otherworldly elegance.

"So, this so-called ancient text is just my modern-day Swedish? Well...that’s convenient," I muse, a mix of surprise and amusement flickering through my thoughts, both quickly draining from me as I begin to read.

"When the organ of valour is sounded,
and the Felwinter approaches, carrying a sword of runes and weapons unknown.
With blinding speed and rending strength,
shall evil be vanquished until they are no longer needed."

I let out a slow exhale before slumping back in my chair, my head resting limply against its high frame. "You’ve got to be fucking kidding me," I groan, closing my eyes. "It’s just a coincidence."

"By all accounts, you match the description—however vague it may be," Celestia said, her horn flashing with a sudden golden glow as she summoned my equipment and sent the journal back to wherever she got it from. "To fight and kill sixteen demons—including three Goliaths and a Nuckelavee—is unheard of. A single Nuckelavee alone is enough to be a nuisance to both my sister and me, yet you fought them all without backup. That alone, we—and many others—believe, is a testament to your true strength."

She paused, studying me intently before continuing. "Our own strength is considerable as well, but in time, I believe you may even surpass my sister and me," She said. "You seem to be more in touch with your lineage than anyone in recent history. We would not be surprised if the blood of royalty runs through your veins."

Luna leaned forward, her expression solemn. "We fought demons many years ago, but back then, our soldiers were more experienced and carried stronger blood ties. Now, only my sister and I have seen war firsthand, and we fear that war is coming—whether to Equestria or all of Terra. If that happens…you may be our only hope."

Lifting my head, I met their gazes wearily. Without a word, I reached for my gear and began the process of reattaching it. I worked in silence, my mind processing everything I had just been told. What once took me an eternity to secure was now done in under five minutes. Still, no one spoke. They simply watched, anticipation thick in the air.

Once finished, I clasped my hands together and rested my forehead against them. "What do you want from me?"

"We wish to make you an offer," Celestia said.

I exhaled slowly. "And that offer would be…?" I asked, leaving the question open-ended, signalling for her to continue.

Celestia’s next words changed everything.

"We wish to make you our Paladin."

The moment the words left her mouth, all movement ceased. The air grew heavy with silence. No one dared to breathe, as if a single sound would shatter the fragile tension. With wide eyes, I slowly looked up at the Princesses. Both of them held my gaze, their expressions unwavering as they awaited my answer.

"I...I-I can't accept such an offer," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper. A chorus of gasps rippled through the room.

Noticing my hesitation, the Princesses' expressions softened. It was Celestia who spoke first, her tone gentle. "Why?"

"Why offer something so great to someone you've only just met a few days ago?" I asked, my voice steadying slightly. "Who, for most of that time, wasn't even conscious."

Celestia stood gracefully from her seat, her gaze unwavering as she approached me. Placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder, she answered, "Because we've seen what you're capable of. We've seen the compassion you hold for those around you."

She looked at me intently before continuing, "Tell me, why would a man so willingly risk his life for people he does not know? Why would he stand between them and danger without a second thought?"

"There are many reasons he might," I murmured, glancing at the group of friends who were now leaning in, hanging onto my words. "Perhaps he did it out of the goodness of his heart. Perhaps he did it to fulfil a promise. Or maybe... just maybe, he did it to atone for past mistakes."

"Whatever the reason," Luna interjected, stepping to my other side and placing her hand on my shoulder, mirroring her sister, "We know it was not out of selfishness. You saved Twilight and her friends from a hydra and simply walked away, asking for nothing in return. You protected young Applejack’s family without hesitation. Such actions are not easily forgotten."

Across the room, Applejack gave a small nod, tugging her hat down slightly in quiet acknowledgement.

"And you rescued me from the Diamond Dog coven," Rarity added, her voice filled with gratitude. "Not just me, but five others as well. You went out of your way to do it. Y didn’t have to—but you did."

"These acts of bravery deserve recognition," Luna said firmly. "Deeds like yours should not fade into obscurity."

"You want a hero," I muttered, the weight of their words pressing against me.

"No," Celestia said, her gaze warm yet unwavering. "We seek a beacon of hope."

"This is a lot," I admitted after a moment, exhaling slowly. "I need time to think about this."

"Of course, take all the time you need. We will not rush you," Luna assured me, her sister nodding in agreement.

I rose from my seat, and both Celestia and Luna instinctively stepped back, giving me space. As I moved toward the dining hall's grand entrance, Blossom and the other guards stationed nearby wordlessly opened the doors for me. I slipped past them effortlessly, their discipline making the process seamless.

~~

Stepping outside, I was met with a gentle breeze that carried with it the crisp scent of Canterlot’s high-altitude air. The wind rustled through my hair, providing a fleeting sense of calm, though my mind remained tangled in thought. The Princesses’ offer lingered heavily—becoming a Paladin. From the way they spoke about it, the title seemed akin to that of a Knight, or perhaps a specialized subclass of one. Either way, it was a position of great significance, and one I hadn’t expected to be considered for.

My feet carried me through the castle grounds until I reached what I assumed to be Canterlot’s central park, an open expanse that overlooked rolling plains, distant hills, and the towering mountains that framed the kingdom. The view was stunning, but my thoughts were elsewhere. Fortunately, my walk had been uninterrupted—whether out of respect or caution, the nobility kept their distance, which suited me perfectly. Sitting on a bench near the outskirts, I pressed a hand against my knee, trying to still its anxious bouncing. For a brief moment, I managed to quell the nervous energy, but as soon as I let go, it resumed, as if my body refused to settle. But I didn't let it distract me. I needed this time alone to weigh the offer properly, to measure the pros and cons.

Political power was undeniably useful. Having authority at my disposal could open doors, provide leverage, and allow me to influence decisions that might otherwise be beyond my reach. However, with power came expectation. People would inevitably begin treating me differently, adjusting their behaviour based on my newfound status. I never particularly cared about others’ opinions, but such a drastic shift in perception would be difficult to ignore.

Then there was the responsibility of training the Royal Guard. My knowledge of combat was extensive—far beyond what this world seemed accustomed to, thanks to… well, whatever greater force had placed me here. In theory, imparting that knowledge should be straightforward, but in practice, it could take months, possibly years, before they reached the level I envisioned. The thought of overseeing such a transformation was both daunting and intriguing.

And then there was war. That was the heaviest consideration of all. Offering my aid on the battlefield wasn’t as simple as just stepping in and fighting. Modern tactics, if applied correctly, could serve as a massive advantage in what appeared to be a relatively underdeveloped world in terms of warfare. But even if I introduced such strategies, how quickly could they adapt? How long would it take before they fully grasped and effectively utilized modern military principles? Perhaps I was underestimating them. Or perhaps I was overestimating the impact I could have.

The more I thought about it, the more the idea of accepting didn’t seem so far-fetched. But if I did, there were definitely things that needed to be discussed with Celestia and Luna first. Non-negotiables.

I exhaled again, looking out over the horizon.

This decision wasn’t just about me. It was about what it would mean in the long run.

And that was a lot to consider.

"Hey, stranger," A voice said. "This seat taken?"

Jolted from my thoughts, I looked up to see a man—late twenties, maybe early thirties—standing before me. His long blonde hair was woven into a tight braid, the sides of his head shaved close. His thick beard, also braided, gave him the look of an old Norse warrior. Even his accent had a distinct lilt, adding to the impression. Yet something about him unsettled me. A vague, nagging sense of familiarity, like a word on the tip of my tongue that refused to form. I couldn't quite put my finger on it. Maybe my brain was just overloaded from thinking too much.

"Uh, no... no, it's not," I said awkwardly, my mind still scrambling to catch up.

"Appreciate it," He said with a nod, sliding into the chair.

A brief silence stretched between us before he suddenly asked, "So, what brings you out here? Not many people wander to these parts."

I shrugged. "Just got a lot on my mind. What about you?" Small talk wasn’t exactly my strong suit, but it was a decent distraction.

"Visiting an old friend," He said, his eyes fixed on me in a way that made my skin prickle. "Though I doubt he'll recognize me."

I cleared my throat, coughing into my hand. "I'm sure he will."

He let out a short chuckle, though there was little humour in it. "I wouldn’t be so sure. From what I’ve heard, he’s changed. Like he’s a whole new man."

I exhaled slowly. "I suppose there’s only one way to find out."

"That there is," He murmured.

His gaze lingered on me, studying, assessing. I could almost hear the gears turning in his head as he squinted slightly, his expression unreadable. A wave of unease rolled over me, my instincts prickling with warning. Fight or flight stirred in my chest, but I forced it down, keeping my posture relaxed.

Then, ever so slowly, a smirk curled his lips.

"I thought you'd be bigger," He said, tilting his head. His voice shifted, words dragging into a scratchy drawl, almost slurred—like a man too deep in his cups. "But it’s definitely you."

My breath caught. "I'm sorry?"

"It’s been a long time," He continued, standing with deliberate slowness. "Not surprised you don’t remember."

I rose to my feet as well, my pulse kicking up a notch. "What do you want?"

His grin widened as he stood as well. "Oh, you already know the answer to that." He took a step closer.

I stiffened. "Whatever it is you’re after, I don’t have it," I said, already angling my body away. "I think you’ve got the wrong person."

As I turned to walk away from the stranger, a sudden force yanked me backwards. The man grabbed my coat, twisting me around before driving his fist into my stomach with brutal force. The impact sent me soaring through the air, but before I could gain much height, he seized my legs and slammed me face-first into the ground. In one fluid motion, he hurled me across the park, my body hurtling past terrified onlookers before crashing into the streets.

I collided with a building, the sheer force cleaving a massive chunk from its rooftop. As I rebounded off the crumbling structure, I plummeted to the cobbled street below, the impact carving out a sizable crater beneath me.

Panic erupted instantly. The nobles screamed in terror, scrambling to flee in the opposite direction, desperate to escape the sudden skirmish.

Groaning, I rolled onto my back just in time to see the man streaking toward me through the air. Bracing myself, I pressed my hands into the shattered ground, curling inward. The moment he was within range, I lashed out, driving both feet into his chest. The force of the kick sent him rocketing backwards, his trajectory ending with an unceremonious splash as he crashed into the park’s pond.

The sharp clatter of armour caught my attention. Turning my head, I spotted a squad of guards sprinting toward the scene. They quickly locked onto me, their course shifting with clear intent.

"Get the civilians to safety!" I barked. "Inform the Princesses we have a hostile within our walls! Move—now!"

Without waiting for a response, I pushed off the ground and bolted forward.

Skidding to a stop, I watched as the man emerged from the pond, water streaming from his form. He peeled off his soaked shirt, revealing an intricate web of rune-like tattoos etched across his chest and stomach, coiling up his arms like living scripture. I had little doubt they extended across his back as well.

"You’re nothing like I remember," He murmured.

I lunged, driving my fist toward his jaw with all the force I could muster. But in an instant, he caught my arm, effortlessly redirecting my momentum. His grip was like iron, fingers clamping down around my wrist as his eyes flickered downward, seemingly fixated on my right leg.

"Not at all," He mused, a strange curiosity in his voice.

Gritting my teeth, I wrenched my arm free and seized his collar, ramming my forehead into his face with a bone-crunching crack. I reached for my sword, but as my fingers closed around the hilt and I pulled it from the scabbard, he tore it from my grasp and flung it far beyond my reach.

"Oh no, you don’t," He growled, a wicked smirk curling at the edges of his lips. "You don’t get to use your little toys."

He rolled his shoulders, cracking his knuckles as he took a step forward.

"We do this fair. Mano a mano."

In a sudden, unsettling burst of speed, he got behind me, his arms wrapping tightly around my waist before he hoisted me off my feet and slammed me into the ground. Pain exploded through me as my body folded in half before he followed up with a relentless kick to my stomach, sending me tumbling across the meticulously manicured grass. My momentum carried me into a tree before I finally skidded to a halt against a jagged outcropping of rock. Dazed, my mind reeling from the vicious assault, I barely registered the sound of his approaching footsteps, accompanied by a low, raspy chuckle.

"How incredibly disappointing," He sneered.

Heat suddenly built in my chest and before he could react, I grasped a fallen tree lying beside me and swung it with all the strength I could muster. The force sent him soaring through the air, but I didn’t let up. Following his trajectory, I caught him mid-fall and drove him through several large stones, his fists and elbows striking at me in frantic attempts to break free. Ignoring the blows, I slammed him into a boulder with enough force to rattle the ground. As I released him to follow up with another attack, he retaliated, smashing his locked fists into my back and driving me face-first into the dirt.

"I was expecting better of you," He taunted.

Gritting my teeth, I reached up and grabbed his legs, yanking them out from under him and catching him off guard. Moving fast, I pinned him down, manoeuvring my body beneath his and wrapping an arm around his throat while locking his legs with mine. He thrashed, clawing at my grip, but I held firm. He delivered a brutal elbow to my ribs, momentarily stunning me and forcing me to loosen my hold. He almost broke free, but I caught him again with my opposite arm, locking it in place as he struggled.

"Oh," He wheezed, struggling to draw breath. "I see now..."

"I don’t know what the hell you’re rambling about, but I’ve heard enough."

Clenching my hands around his head, I twisted sharply. A sickening crack echoed through the air, followed by a weak gasp as his body went limp against mine. I shoved him off and exhaled, taking a moment to steady myself. Just as I pushed myself to my feet, the sound of approaching footsteps caught my attention.

Turning toward the noise, my gaze met a pair of very concerned-looking Princesses, Celestia holding my sword in her grasp, flanked by roughly a dozen guards.

"Took your time," I commented as they stepped up to me. "The threat’s been neutralized."

Celestia’s eyes flicked to the lifeless body at my feet before returning to me as Luna's wings fluttered behind her back. "He seemed to have done quite a number on you."

"He caught me off guard," I admitted, rolling my shoulder.

"I can imagine," She replied, her expression unreadable as she glanced at the guards, preparing to issue orders. Before she could speak, I stepped in.

"Take this man's body to the morgue and conduct a full autopsy on both his physical and metaphysical body," I commanded, my voice carrying an air of authority, my mouth moving of its own accord. "He was stronger than he should’ve been, and I want to understand why. Cordon off the park and send in an investigative team. Have them check for any signs of magical interference or other possible foul play."

The guards hesitated, their expressions flickering with uncertainty as they turned to the Princesses for confirmation. Though their confusion was subtle, I caught it. After a brief exchange of glances, Celestia gave a small nod, and the guards moved to comply. A unicorn among them activated their magic, summoning a black body bag. Within moments, the man was zipped away and swiftly carried off, while the others dispersed to carry out the orders I had given.

Folding my arms, I turned to the Princesses. "Come on, let's head back to the castle."

Surprisingly, they remained silent as they exchanged another look, seemingly unsure how to process the situation. The walk back was quiet, aside from the occasional orders given by the Princesses as we passed through the streets. By the time we crossed the palace gates and stepped into the grand foyer, I finally broke the silence.

"There’s something I need to discuss."

Celestia studied me for a moment before speaking. "By your tone, I take it you’ve made a decision?"

I met her gaze, unwavering. "Yes. I want to accept."

"That is splendid news, Sir Felwinter!" Luna cheered, her voice light with excitement. "Though I must admit, I’m surprised you came to a decision so quickly."

"I weighed my options carefully, and the benefits far outweighed the drawbacks," I replied. "Besides, this encounter has made me realize there’s far more happening beneath the surface than I think any of us had previously suspected."

Celestia’s expression shifted, her concern evident. "What do you mean?"

"That man spoke as if he knew me, yet I have no recollection of ever meeting him," I said, my brow furrowing. "Something larger is at play here, and I have a feeling we need to be prepared. Which is why I’ve decided to accept your offer."

"This is welcome news," Celestia said as she and Luna began leading me through the grand foyer and into the winding halls of the palace. I walked between them, listening intently as Celestia continued, "But first, we must discuss the responsibilities that will come with your position."

"You would hold the highest rank in our military and oversee the training of our Royal Guards," She explained. "Given your apparent experience, you would also provide strategic counsel should we ever face war—assisting in matters such as battle planning, the establishment of secure trade routes, and other critical concerns. Furthermore, if circumstances demanded it, and no one else was available, you would be expected to take on a political role as well."

"However," Luna added, her gaze steady, "Your primary duty would be to safeguard Equestria and its citizens, ensuring both its security and sovereignty. You would serve as its sword and shield. To reflect this, you would be granted a noble title along with political influence within our government."

I exhaled slowly, shaking my head as I processed the weight of their words. "That’s... quite a lot to take in."

"Indeed, it is," Celestia acknowledged with a nod. "Of course, my sister and I would remain by your side to oversee matters and offer guidance whenever necessary. I imagine you may have a few conditions of your own?"

A small smirk found its way onto my lips. "Sharp as ever, aren’t you?" I remarked, earning amused smiles from both princesses. "Yes, I do have one condition. If I am to take on this role, I must be autonomous."

Their expressions turned curious as they exchanged a glance before Celestia tilted her head slightly. "Could you clarify what you mean?"

"I mean that while I am more than willing to follow orders, I must also have the authority to reject any that I believe lack sound judgment," I explained. "Rest assured, I wouldn't ever abuse this privilege, but I want to be clear from the outset—I am, by nature, a free spirit. I will not be a mere pawn to be summoned and commanded at whim, especially if the orders in question seem reckless or misguided."

Luna’s eyes narrowed slightly, though not in disapproval—rather, in intrigue. "What leads you to believe we would issue such orders?" She asked. Her tone was neutral, but the way Celestia regarded me suggested she shared her sister’s curiosity.

I lifted a hand and began counting on my fingers. "A variety of reasons: exhaustion, mind control, overwhelming stress, illness, emotional compromise, or simply not thinking clearly in the moment. My authority to veto orders would be exercised only in cases where I believe you are not in your right mind—nothing more, nothing less."

The two sisters stared at me for what felt like an eternity, their eyes flickering with thought as they silently weighed my request. I could practically see and hear the gears turning in their minds, their expressions shifting ever so slightly as they deliberated. Finally, after exchanging a knowing glance, they turned back to me.

"That is acceptable," Celestia said, her voice calm yet firm. "However, should we find you are abusing your power, the consequences will be severe. Am I understood?"

I responded with an easy smile. "Loud and clear."

Luna inclined her head slightly. "Is there anything else you wish to add?"

"No, actually," I replied. "That about covers it."

"Splendid," Celestia said. "However, there are a few things we wish to discuss with you, regarding your role."

I raised an eyebrow. "And those would be?"

"First and foremost—your accommodations," Celestia began. "You will be provided with a residence befitting someone of your station, along with a small staff to maintain it and attend to your needs. The finest builders will be commissioned to ensure it is constructed with both efficiency and the highest quality in mind."

I came to an abrupt stop in the middle of the corridor, prompting the princesses to pause and glance back at me. "You're telling me you're giving me a house… with a full staff to run it?"

"Indeed," Luna confirmed. "It is only appropriate for one of your rank to have a proper base of operations. The staff—composed of butlers and maids—will ensure your residence remains in pristine condition at all times."

I exhaled slowly, stepping between them once more to resume walking. "Okay. That’s… a lot," I muttered, still processing the weight of it all.

Celestia chuckled softly. "Yes, it certainly is," She agreed. "Now, the second matter we would like to mention concerns your personal protection."

I frowned slightly. "What do you mean by that?"

Luna took the lead this time. "To put it simply, you will have your own personal entourage."

"...Huh?"

The sisters exchanged a glance before giggling at my confusion.

"Long ago, the bearer of the Paladin title functioned much like a knight," Celestia explained. "They were both protectors and mentors—shielding the Crown and the Throne while imparting knowledge to their subordinates. Though times have changed, we believe that the modern Paladin should still embody the essence of those who came before. To that end, you will be granted the rank of General and High Noble of Equestria. With such a position, personal security is not a luxury but a necessity."

"You will be assigned a highly skilled individual as your primary protector," Luna continued. "Additionally, you will have the opportunity to handpick two or three others to form a personal guard—loyal only to you, should you wish to do so."

I idly crossed my arms. "I appreciate the concern, but I can handle myself."

"That is not in question," Luna said smoothly. "We acknowledge your strength. However, even the most powerful individuals must have those they can trust. Your guard will not just be protectors—they will be your comrades, your confidants. A shield not just for your body, but for your mind and soul as well."

"And they will answer to no one but you," Celestia added. "Not to me. Not to my sister. Their loyalty will be solely yours."

I exhaled through my nose, mulling over their words before tilting my head. "Alright… so who’s this 'highly skilled individual' you’ve chosen?"

"It will be easier if you meet him yourself," Luna said as we reached a set of doors.

Opening the doors, we stepped inside swiftly, and my eyes immediately landed on who I assumed would be my permanent protector.

The man was enormous. If I had to guess, Celestia and I stood around six feet tall, while Luna was slightly shorter, somewhere between five foot ten and five-eleven. That would place the man before us at a towering six foot five—possibly six foot six—and the sheer muscle packed onto his frame only made him seem even larger. If this was the guy assigned to be my entourage, I certainly had no complaints.

But it wasn’t just his height or his imposing, broad-shouldered build that caught my attention. No, what truly stood out was the weathered skull stitched into his mask—a dull, battle-worn emblem marred by scrapes and dents, evidence of years of use.

Then I noticed something else. His armour was unlike anything I’d seen so far. It had the layered look of modern kevlar body armour but with an embedded plate of medieval-style armour beneath, seamlessly integrated into the design. Pockets and pouches were neatly arranged across the otherwise sleek surface, making it both tactical and practical. It was an unusual setup—one I’d have to ask about later. His attire was equally distinct: a black hoodie, dark blue jeans, reinforced knee pads, and black half-leather combat boots. His hands, clad in full combat gloves, bore a skeletal pattern eerily similar to my own.

“Lieutenant Ghost, reporting,” He said, his deep, gravelly voice laced with a distinctly British accent.

“Lieutenant, this is Percival Felwinter. Effective immediately, he is your charge,” Celestia stated with an air of authority, her voice brokering no argument.

Ghost studied me, his gaze sweeping over me from head to toe before he extended a hand. I took it. His grip was firm—impressive, even.

“A pleasure, sir,” He said simply.

“If that is all, we shall take our leave,” Celestia continued. “This will be your temporary quarters until we finalize your permanent accommodations. We will be in touch soon to formalize your titles and access privileges.”

With that, she and her sister turned toward the exit.

As they left, I took a moment to absorb my surroundings. The room I’d been given wasn’t just spacious—it was extravagant. A king-sized bed dominated the space, accompanied by an enormous closet, polished dressers, and an en-suite bathroom that looked like it belonged in a five-star hotel. Every detail, from the ambient lighting to the sheer opulence of the decor, screamed luxury. It was the kind of setup I’d never imagined myself living in. Then again, I hadn’t imagined any of this happening in the first place.

Turning my attention back to Ghost, I found him watching me intently. His gaze wasn’t unsettling, nor was it filled with judgment or hostility. It was calculating—assessing. Like he was trying to figure out what to make of me.

“Is there anything you need, sir?” He asked, his tone exuding professionalism and the quiet confidence of a man who took his duty seriously.

I sighed, rubbing the bridge of my nose. “No… I think I just need some rest. It’s been a long-ass day.”

“I can imagine, sir.” He nodded. “If you need anything, I’ll be right outside. Two raps on the door, and I’ll be in immediately. I look forward to working with you.”

And with that, he turned and left, closing the door behind him.

I exhaled sharply, running a hand through my hair.

Shit just got way more complicated than I ever thought possible.

Normal life? Yeah, that was officially out the window.

Author's Note

Ohhh responsibilities, gotta love them, at least it comes with some bonuses
And how does this mysterious stranger know our protagonist? We shall see
And what's this? A new character? Yupperoni!

Easily the most changed with the new revised versions, I just thought it made more sense for Percival to have his history session here as opposed to later into the story like it used to be

Please point out any mistakes I may have made
Constructive criticism is always appreciated
Until next time, TTFN!