Chapters Hircine stood before the lycanthropes he called his Hounds. Each of them being a werewolf in life, by choice or accident, now resided within his Hunting Grounds in death. “As all of you know, my prey escaped my blade during my previous Hunt. Once more, you know that I recently met with my fellow Princes, and I am pleased to inform you that I have come to a decision.” The lycans were relieved, happy their master was over his gloomy mood. “I have decided to send one of my Hounds that still reside on Nirn to a realm that was brought to my attention.” While none of them were going, the lycans felt joy for their brother and the honor he would have, and they showed it, their cheers and shouts could be heard throughout the Hunting Grounds
@#@#@#@#@
The Winter Solstice Festival, while usually a small affair, attended only by the social elite, was to be a truly grand celebration. Princess Luna was planning to publicly raise the moon, just as her sister did at the Summer Sun Celebration with the celebration's namesake. Luna had been encouraged by her sister, and by her recent trip to Ponyville on Nightmare Night, to introduce herself to her subjects, having been rather introverted since her return. Celestia even made arrangements for the Elements of Harmony to attend, giving Luna no small amount of comfort at the thought of seeing familiar faces.
The Princess of Night was lost in thought, planning the longest night of the year, both for her, and Equestria. She was both nervous, and excited at the prospect of being the center of attention tonight. Luna looked out her window, silently noting the time she had until the Festival began. She only had fifteen hours left to prepare, this was going to be perfect, and Luna hoped it would be nights like these that would define her rule. A tap on her side roused her from her daydreaming. She whirled around, only to see Celestia standing there, a smile gracing her face.
“Nervous?”
She gave a huff, trying to act annoyed by her sister even considering such a thing. “You know me better than that, Tia.” Trying, being the operative word.
“You shouldn't be nervous, they're going to love you.” Celestia bent down and nuzzled her sister, “You really should ease up.”
“I know I should,” Luna sighed. “But I've just got a feeling in the pit of my stomach.” It was true, a feeling of unease had been settled in for the past few days.
“I'm sorry to hear that, but look on the bright side, it can't go any worse than the Gala.” The Princesses shared a laugh. “But I do hope you get to feeling better, I'm sure nothing will happen to ruin the Festival. Besides, with the Element of Laughter here, nopony would try to ruin the party.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
The young lycan bit into his dinner, Masser and Secunda bathing the coastline in pale light. Ever since he was afflicted by the curse of lycanthropy, he knew he would have to leave home. A fact that only upset him at the time, but gave him freedom to move around as he pleased. He paused his recollection to tear into the horker once more, a nice chunk from its side. Oh, how he loved his transformed state, it was the only time his body didn't feel slow and weak. The only drawback was that he was unable to control himself during his required monthly transformation, but thanks to ring he wore on a chain around his neck, he wouldn't need to worry about it.
He had obtained the ring from an adventurer, saying she no longer had a use for it. It was silver, with a wolf's head sticking out from the front, nothing too special about it. It was difficult to explain, but he just felt more awake, if that made any sense. Even now, a night when his transformation was required, he remained in command of his body, not succumbing to the blood lust that was a part of lycanthropy. He took another bite, using his clawed hands(?) for leverage, he chewed and swallowed quickly, eager to get on the move once more.
He searched the air for any scent that caught interest, and took off. Using all four of his limbs, he tore across the frozen ground, drawn to the scent of a campfire, and the meat it was roasting. He ran just over a mile before he saw the campsite, eight figures standing around, drinking. Glinting swords hung at their waists, most likely polished iron, or steel. He quickly scanned the campsite for anything that stood out. At the edge of the camp lay an unmoving form of that could only belong to a lycan, there was now no doubt in his mind who these people were: the Silver Hand.
They were a branch of werewolf hunters that operated throughout High Rock and Skyrim, using silver swords and claymores as rather effective weapons. The order had a very low failure rate, making them the best hunters of the unnatural. It was unfortunate that the werewolf observing them was also rather skilled, and felt it was time for these hunters to become the quarry.
@#@#@#@#@
Only five hours remained until the Festival began, and the Princess of Night was finally feeling at ease. Luna was currently enjoying a small salad, and reading a book on appropriate modern behavior in a formal setting. This was just what she needed to get her stomach settled, a comfort she enjoyed as long as she remembered. The Princess could hear the band rehearsing outside, their cellist sounding particularly skillful. Luna closed her book and decided to finally begin working on her part of the Festival, she'd put it off as long as she could.
@#@#@#@#@#@
He'd set upon the hunters in a flash, slashing and clawing, he'd killed two before they could respond. A slash across his back turned the assault into true combat, the burning wound proved the blade wasn't one of steel, but silver. The werewolf jumped forward, spun around with claws extended, and caught the one who injured him across the gut. The lycan roared, eager for more, and the hunter he slashed obliged.
The werewolf tackled the Silver Hand member to the ground and would have mauled the man, had an arrow not have caught his arm. On his feet once more, the lycan snarled, the single archer amongst them had another arrow notched, ready to fire. The four others had war axes drawn, all steel, all of them angry. He grabbed the Nord woman who stood in nearest to him, putting her in the arrow's path just after the archers had released his grip, poor dear was struck through the heart.
He tossed the corpse towards the other axemen, and tackled the archer, holding him down and biting out his throat. Another burning slash across the back, and a clawed slash towards the hunter. He gave a kick to an axeman, knocking the wind from him, and dove forward, biting out another throat. The one with the silver blade and two of the axemen were all that remained. He shouldered the swordsman out of the way, focusing instead on the would-be lumberjacks. He tossed one in front of the other's axe, a tactic that probably shouldn't have worked a second time, but was still effective. A spearing with his claws made short work of the final axe wielder.
He turned towards the swordsman, still sprawled on the ground, as a familiar pain lanced through his body. He fell to his knees as he felt his muzzle compress itself back into his skull, arms shorten and pop back into place. His growls turned to quiet groans as his tail receded into his spine, feet shortening to their normal length. The process lasted only a single minute, but felt as though it lasted several. The lycan rose to his feet, and began to make his way the the sprawled swordsman. Using one hand to hold the breastplate, he removed the Silver Hand member's full face helmet.
Now, it should be stressed that he had expected to find a Nord or maybe an Orc under that helmet, but certainly not a Breton, and definitely not a woman. The brunette woman looked at him with fear in her eyes, as the reality of her situation set in. Here she was, wounded, barely able to move, wearing steel plate armor, being held up by the lycan she had tried to kill moments earlier, who holding said armor up with one hand, who looked shocked and still angry.
One this was abundantly clear in this: he was very, very naked, save for a silver chain.
@#@#@#@#@
Well, that was my first attempt at scene transition, and my first attempt at a combat scene.
View Online
Why Drinking Contests Aren't Alway a Good Idea
A few hundred Septims goes a long way in a tavern, and The Frozen Hearth had always aided his journeys. The lycan downed another bottle of mead, the twentieth in the past two hours, shaking at the chilling sensation in his gut. A local drinking legend in Winterhold, no one gave it a second thought when he'd ordered so much, buying round after round for the other patrons. In a place as dreary as Winterhold, any joy was a welcome sight, and the young man, with his pockets lined, brought plenty of it to the town.
The locals were crowded around a table in the back, watching as a man out-drank every challenger. “If anyone can beat me, I'll buy the drinks for a week!” The man shouted, speech not slurred in the slightest. “How about you, sir?” he asked, pointing to an old Dunmer. “Or maybe you?” An Altmer this time. “Really, no takers? Are all the real men at the College or something?”
Not one to insulted, the young lycan took a seat across from the drinking machine. “I've never turned down a challenge, or lost for that matter. But I feel bad for taking a stranger's money, so,” The lycan held out his hand across the table. “What's your name?”
Taking it, the stranger replied with a smile, “Name's Sam, friend, and you are?”
“Ready to get started.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Citizens of Equestria, I, Princess Luna, welcome you to the Winter Solstice Festival!” There she was, in a large gazebo, looking out at those gathered. The guests were easily above three hundred in number. “As you know all too well, I was once Nightmare Moon, and was banished to it for attempting to bring eternal night, I returned one thousand years later, a year and a half ago, but thanks to the Elements of Harmony,” Luna motioned towards the six, seated to her left. “I was freed from being the Mare in the Moon, and have returned to my place at my sister's side, as your Princess.”
Luna stepped out of the gazebo, onto the small stage erected next to it. “Now, without further delay,” She began her ascension, “I declare,” Her moon began to show on the horizon, “The Winter Solstice Festival” The moon was now behind, its light partially obscuring her. “Commenced!” The moon's color shifted, once pale white, now a brilliant gold. As Luna landed, she looked upon the crowd, and was slightly put off by the shocked expressions of her subjects. She jumped slightly as they suddenly broke into applause, creating a thunderous roar.
The band began to play, the guests mingled, danced, and passed congratulations to the Princess of Night as she passed by. Everypony seemed to be on their best behavior, in fact, the only disturbance was a pegasus having an allergic reaction to one of the exotic flowers. Things were almost going too well, a rare occurrence at Canterlot parties. The whole situation made Celestia's nose itch.
“Luna, darling, what you did with the moon was brilliant!” Rarity, ever occupied by appearances, piped in.
“Ah hope Granny Smith didn't see that, she'll be headin to Fillydelphia to see Cousin Fritter for a new cart axle.” Applejack really didn't want to elaborate.
Pinkie Pie also spoke, but the speed at which she did made whatever message she tried to convey incoherent, although 'walrus' and 'battle-station' were identified.
@#@#@#@#@
They both downed the first mug of Sam's special brew in one pull. A slight warmth spread through the lycan, in his limbs. The second was poured, and consumed just as quickly, warmth settled in his torso, a slight shiver ran through him. Sam seemed unaffected, save for a slight coloring in his cheeks. The lycan could smell something in the air, outside of the usual scents one could attribute to a tavern. He had picked up this scent before, hard to describe, pleasant, but left his head buzzing.
A third mug was poured, while Sam seemed to inhale the stuff, the lycan hesitantly drank it. The fuzzy warmth spread up into his head, making thinking difficult, the scent on the air only adding to it. He looked to his opponent, who smiled with a slight glint in his eye. The lycan's chest began to feel uncomfortable, not good, definitely not good. He stood, wobbling slightly, “Sorry to cut the game short, but I have pressing matters to attend to.” He meant to say, but all that came out was a mixture of a groan and whimper. Stumbling through the gathered crowd, out into the cold air of the early night.
Snow fell, as it almost always did, heavily, gathering on the buildings and light fixtures almost fast enough to see. He moved East, towards the College, nearly tripping with each step. Just as he reached the stone entryway, he turned left, towards a natural ramp down the cliffs. The discomfort now full-blown pain, he knew just what was happening: transformation. He fell to his knees, onto the sand of the coast.
As his body shifted, the scent grew, becoming as intoxicating as that Breton's accursed drink. Instinct recognized what the rational mind failed to. The scent was indeed familiar, but he had no memory of it: The scent of fresh prey, unwitting and vulnerable, ready for the chase.
“Well, well, well, look at the lost puppy.” Sam's voice barely registered over the haze within the lycan's mind. “Out for a walk little fella? Shouldn't you be on a leash?” Had he understood, the man would have met his end. The lycan, half-way through this painfully long transformation, gave Sam a pained look. “What's the matter, the drinks not sit well with you? I guess I should have figured it would, dogs shouldn't eat from the table, after all.”
The lycan's vision blurred and shifted with him, changing the world around him into a flurry of colors with no certain border between them. From gray and white, to an array of bright colors and flickering lights. Solitude, perhaps? This certainly seemed similar to the Burning of King Olaf, at least color-wise. His thoughts slowly began to take form, he was not cold, his transformation was complete, Sam was gone. With each thought, complexity increased, his vision improved, smell with it.
Indeed, Solitude seemed the most likely possibility, regardless of how improbable the situation. He saw the Queen sitting across the massive garden, surrounded by guards. The townsfolk were observing him with both fear and curiosity, a combination he had never received. Guards came through the crowd, weapons drawn defensively, one spoke, words falling on deaf ears. Anger crossed the guards features, this time shouting, posture changing, becoming challenge, offensive.
The lycan out a roar, and the confrontation began..
View Online
Barbas, I don't Think We're in Skyrim Anymore
The beast roared, the guards charged, the battle began. The guests retreated, giving the combatants plenty of room, not wishing to be caught in it. Even with superior numbers, the guards were in for a fight, the beast's unnatural strength apparent to all who looked on. Equally evident was the level of preparation the guards went into in means of protecting the royalty, they made a course of action, and carried it out, with unbelievable speed.
@#@#@#@#@#@
He smelled a trick. Just as one guard in front was swinging, he felt a heavy impact to his left leg. He snarled in pain, weaved around the descending weapon, that was a minor fracture, at least. Another blow, to the his ribs this time, he swung, his claws connected with steel. The smell of blood hit his nose, encouraging him, he shot his leg out, hitting one square in the chest. There was a noise of pain accompanied with the sound of buckling metal.
The lycan turned his head in time to see a mace land square in his muzzle. He barked at the sudden agony, his eyes watered slightly. Another blow, he swung, again and again, he missed several times. His foes didn't. They brought their weapons down repeatedly, pummeling relentlessly. A mace slammed in the side of his neck, his ears barely registered the sound of a clasp breaking before his vision went red.
@#@#@#@#@
Nopony would have guessed that after all the guards had put the beast through, a blow that by all means should have brought it to surrender or death, would only make it mad. With a deafening roar, the creature was back to its feet, ready to pounce. It jumped over the guardsponies, escaping from the circle they had formed around it. While it was true the beast had technically been on the defensive, that had changed, with renewed energy, it set about ending those in front of it.
It lunged, using its mouth for the first time, catching a Pegasus on her wing. Wrenching its head, it tossed her to the side, the tearing of muscle was horrifyingly loud. An Earth pony bucked it in its already injured leg, and was rewarded with snarl, one that wasn't pained. The stallion suddenly found himself underneath the beast, on his back. Its jaws were stretched wide, sharp teeth ready to tear soft flesh.
The beast descended, and stallion prepared to lose his life, hoping it wouldn't be in vain. A yelp brought that train of thought to an end. The creature released him, all pressure leaving his body. The Earth pony rose, looking around. The monster was being magically pressed into the ground in front of him, encased in the white aura of Princess Celestia herself. The beast attempted to stand, only to be crushed once more, while strong, it was nowhere near a match for the sun goddess.
“Get the injured medical attention, I'll personally escort this thing to the dungeon.” Celestia's voice held authority that nopony dared to oppose, certainly not in a situation like this. Her authority didn't extend to the beast her magic held, that struggled relentlessly against her. Applying more pressure didn't help, it only increased its actions, growling the entire time. “Luna, I expect to see you in my chambers upon my return.”
“Of course.” Luna knew when her sister was serious, and those times were never good. “I'll be up straight away.”
With a nod from Celestia, she and her guards began to move to the massive dungeon beneath the castle. Once the Princess of the Sun was out of sight, Luna turned to the gathered ponies, “I'm sorry for all the commotion, perhaps next year will be better.” She tried to give a calming smile, as her sister would do in this situation, but she barely managed to change her already shaken expression. “I certainly hope you all have a safe trip home, and bid you goodnight.” She half-bowed politely, then turned to leave.
She stopped only to pick up a small, silver chain, and the ring it held. Her concern only grew as her magic enveloped it. The chain itself wasn't anything special, just plain silver. The ring on it, however, was entirely different, it held power, a power that the Princess had only felt on one other thing in existence: Discord. The ring didn't feel like one of his creations, no, it felt like him , as if the two had the same origin. Luna shivered at the thought.
@#@#@#@#@#@
The particular cell Celestia had chosen for the beast was rather high-tech. With a heated floor, a toilet, and cot, a sink with hot water, and bars with enough electricity flowing through them to cook a pony, it was all the Princess could give to feel like a gracious host. Celestia had put the thing to sleep, he, as she observed, was putting up more of a fight than expected. He was stronger than one would expect something of his size to be, he would easily be able to over-power a manticore, an Ursa Minor would likely have trouble, but would in all possibility kill him.
Celestia paused her thoughts, was the beast waking up? She gasped as she heard its bones popping. He raised himself to a crouching position, whimpering slightly. His feet shortened, along with his claws and forelegs, tail receding into his spine, muzzle compacting in on itself, broken and missing teeth being replaced by new ones. His fur vanished, save for the patch on his head, black turning into a medium brown. Whatever the creature was, the Princess had never seen anything of the sort in her entire existence. He collapsed back onto the floor, panting, covered in sweat.
He turned his head to the side, towards Celestia and her guards. His tired expression quickly changed to one of shock.
@#@#@#@#@
He floated in darkness, a transparent, red wolf enveloping him in its embrace. He was under the blood lust, his body no longer under his control, and the man hadn't a single care in the world at the moment.. He and the wolf flinched at every blow that impacted, both feeling the full effect of them. The man reached up and scratched the wolf under its chin, offering some small amount of comfort to the whimpering animal, and himself. The wolf wasn't an actual wolf, merely an extension of himself, his bestial instincts given form, but still, it made good company, often appearing in his dreams.
The blackness before them began to shift, turning first into a white and gray blob, then into the blurry pattern of floor tiles. His consciousness moved forward, taking control of his now normal, weakened body. Indeed, he was on the floor, likely in a cell, if his memory of the night, before giving in to the blood lust, served him. He tried to get up, but settled for turning his head.
Once more, he expected to see guards, maybe the Queen, standing there. He never thought he'd be looking at horses, let much less horned and winged ones. His vision shifted slightly as he looked to the tallest of them, its mane and tail multicolored and flowing with nonexistent wind. One eye saw the horse, the other saw Jarl Elisif the Fair, of Solitude. Putting the pieces together, he came to the conclusion that he was not in Skyrim anymore, and he had likely crashed this horse queen thing's party. Never one to panic, the lycan said the most tactful thing he could think of at the moment.
“What the hell are you?” The horse thing must not have expected that, maybe it didn't know he could talk? The horses must have been intelligent, they had that spark in their eyes the all men, mer, and beastfolk possessed, so was it far-fetched to think they had language? “Was it something I said?” Gods he hated dealing with royalty.
“You can talk?” One of the smaller ones asked, armored, likely one of the royal horses guards. The lycan smiled a little, on the inside of course, reminded of a certain dog he had run into outside Falkreath, and defaulted to the hounds wise words.
“Yes, I just spoke, and I am continuing to do so, perhaps we can move this conversation along, please?”
“Just what are you.” That voice came from the tallest horse, feminine, regal, definitely royalty, just great.
“My dear, the correct term is 'who' not 'what', as you can see, I have a mind, and am apt to use it.” Perhaps he was a jackass, he didn't really care.
“Alright then, who are you ?"
@#@#@#@#@#@
Now time for me to actually make the character.
Right, time for dialogue, I'm not good at it. Tear into any mistake I make with it, I need to get better somehow.
@#@#@#@#@
Princess Luna was already in her sister's chambers, her stomach felt like a lead weight. She still had the beast's chain, the ring from it, anyway. Whatever magic it possessed, it wasn't Equestrian, though the Princess was at a loss to its source. It held power within itself, you had to probe to find it, when one did though, it felt unnatural, foreign.
Her magic held the item in front of her, Luna herself staring out the window. Her gaze drifted between the little artifact, and her moon. Since the beast arrived, its golden shade had been changing, growing closer to orange. At the end of the conflict, just before the creature did that, Luna cringed at the thought, to the Pegasus guard, the moon was red. A phenomenon that had never happened before, at least not to the Princess of Night's knowledge. This entire situation made no sense.
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Alright then, who are you?” The horse thing was trying to act nice, but the lycan could tell she had no patience for him. Whatever he had done, he had obviously upset her.
“Now, you see, even with correct phrasing, there isn't a short answer, so I'm going to have to ask you to be more specific.” He was under the impression that these horses were going to prove annoying.
“Your name.” Simple enough, straight to the point, maybe he was wrong.
“Reman, yours?” The horse quirked a brow, he hated royalty. “It's only fair, answer for an answer.” She was undoubtedly getting annoyed by him, and he didn't care.
“I am Princess Celestia, co-ruler of Equestria.” She wore a smile, perhaps Reman was being cynical, but it looked forced. “Now, where are you from?” Her smile became less of a show, perhaps this game was growing on her? Time to ruin that thought.
“Again, be specific, where was I born, where have I been, where do I live, things like that.” The Princess started to look frustrated, she didn't like Reman, that much was obvious. “I'm not going to count that as a question, go ahead, please.” He put on a smile, Reman rolled onto his back, and rose to a sitting position, crossing his legs.
“Well, Ray-man, I-” Reman's hand silenced her.
“Reman, your pronunciation is close, but say it faster.” He was trying to grind her gears at this point, still smiling.
“Reman,” A nod from said man. “I'll be asking all three of those, you'll get your three once I'm done.” The man shrugged his shoulders, a gesture the two cultures seemed to share.
“Well, in that order: I was born in and spent my childhood in Cyrodiil, on a farm with an iron mine on the property, I've been all over, and currently call a Dwemer storehouse in Skyrim my home.” The locations, countries, perhaps, were unfamiliar to the Princess, but she understood that he lived in a what amounted to a warehouse. “So, Princess, my turn. What exactly are you, by that I mean species-wise, what exactly happened earlier, and,” Reman took a breath, pausing for effect. “Where is my necklace, you know, the silver chain collar I had? In order, please.”
“Well, Reman, we call ourselves 'Ponies', I myself am an Alicorn, the one to my left is a Unicorn, to my right, a Pegasus, the ones behind me are Earth Ponies. What happened earlier, well, we were having our Winter Solstice Festival, then you showed up, my guards approached you, asked your business, and you roared at them, they attacked you to protect the other party-goers. In regards to your collar, I have no idea, I saw it on you, but after you were beaten to the ground, it was gone, I can have somepony look for it, if you like.” A look of relief crossed his features, Celestia wondered if it had sentimental value, perhaps a keepsake from a passed relative? “Now, I believe it's my turn. What are you, species-wise of course?”
“I,” He began, pointing to himself “am an Imperial.” More questions than answers with that one, giving her half the information needed to even be understood. “Now for me,” The man rose to his feet and approached the bars of his cell, never touching them. “What is it going to take for me to get out of cell?” He stood as tall as the Princess, maybe shorter, but not by much, and was trying with all his might to appear nonthreatening.
“I'm certain a key would be needed.” Royal bitch. “Now, can every member of your species transform?” She didn't get a response, he simply walked to the cot and sat down, a small grin on his face.
@#@#@#@#@
The chamber doors creaked open, Princess Celestia finally joined her sister. The Princess of Day saw Luna lost in thought, eying a small, shiny object that floated in front of her. Celestia noted her sister's concerned expression, Luna was worried about something. The Moon Princess' eyes flicked to Celestia, relief crossed her features, though concern remained prevalent.
“Well, how did it go?” Celestia's face fell, her earlier frustration showing through.
“He talks.” Luna's brain dry fired as she wrapped her head around what her sister said.
“What?”
“It is a he, that talks. He changed shape after I locked him up, he answered some questions, asked some of his own, but what he said raised more questions than I had when began.” Celestia was tired, Luna understood that, the Sun Princess' mane and tail flowing much less than normal. Between the red moon and this thing they had in the dungeon, Luna could tell things were just going to get worse from here on out.
She just hoped everything would be okay on the other side of this.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Reman gave up on staying awake, his cell's surprising warmth making him drowsy. The lycan yawned, rolled onto his back, and fell asleep almost instantly.
The hills of Cyrodiil rolled out before him, it was spring, flowers blooming all over the expanses of County Kvatch. The warm breeze creating waves in the plant growth, colors flowing to and fro. He heard someone sit down next to him, a face the man hadn't thought of in a long time: Lynette Jemane. Reman allowed a small, true smile to cross his features. Fond, loving memories flowed through his mind.
Her family lived nearby, an hour's walk at most. She was of Breton blood, her wavy brown hair and poise speaking to the fact. Friends since birth, they were inseparable, even after a big fight, they always ran into each other in town the next time either of them were there. The memory brought a smile to his face, bittersweet, he recalled talk of an arranged marriage, their families thinking them perfect for one another. Reman almost shed a tear, the happiest days of his life were spent here, the one place he could never return. Just as he finished that thought, an icy wind tore through the air.
He turned to see Lynette, her silver blade held aloft, ready to strike him down.
@#@#@#@#@
And there we go. Really, any help I can get with dialogue is appreciated.
Curiosity Can be a Terrible Thing
Well, Chapter Six is out, feedback is appreciated.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Reman's eyes shot open, then immediately closed. The bright, strange lights in the ceiling causing pain, he almost mistook them for the sun, the humming noise they made clued him in. They were little more than slits the next go around, he glanced to his right, looking to his cell's door. Guards, eight of them, were posted opposite of the electrified bars, at least the Princess was smart about locking him up. All of them were white, like fresh-fallen snow. Perhaps they were using something like that stuff they made in High Rock, bleach, he thought it was called.
The wooden door, about twelve feet from the one to his cell, opened. Another pony walked in, dark blue, mane and tail resembling the night sky, flowing the same way Celestia's did. Horned and winged, like the other, Alicorn, was the term, the lycan thought. The Princess called herself 'co-ruler', so perhaps this new pony was the other.
“Celestia wasn't joking, he really did change.” Feminine voice, no doubt this pony was a female, she seemed surprised. “Can it speak as well?”
“Yes, Your Majesty, it carried on a conversation with Princess Celestia last night.” One of the guards that time, male.
“Fascinating, what else did he do, my sister wasn't clear on his behavior.” Sister? Well now, that was interesting, this must be the other 'co-ruler' Celestia mentioned. Reman closed the near-invisible slit he had his eye opened in, he shifted, imitating a man snuggling into his bed. “Is he awake?” Seemed he startled her with that, good.
“Not as far as I can tell, Your Majesty, it went to the cot shortly after Princess Celestia left. It's been asleep since.” Different guard that time, sounded older.
“How can something that size sleep for so long?” The new pony walked closer to the bars, curiosity painting her voice. Her inquisitive tone reminded the lycan of a Restoration master he'd met in Valenwood, he suppressed a shiver. A small click hit his ears, the sound was familiar, a switch was flicked. The lycan twitched in his 'sleep' again, had to keep up appearances. More footfalls, coming closer to him. There was a small clinking noise, the sound of a key entering a lock.
“Princess, I have to advise against this, we have no idea what he's capable of.” A different guard that time, experienced, and female. Reman began to put two and two together.
“I appreciate the concern, captain, but it is unnecessary. I'll take every precaution possible, if he makes a move he'll regret it.” Cocky, Reman saw an opportunity. The key turned, the cell door moved inward lightly, then rolled to the side. The blue pony walked through, followed by some of the guards, the sound of multiple pairs of feet clanking on the metal floor tipped that off to the lycan. The Alicorn stopped right at the cot, so close Reman could hear her breathing, one would think any intelligent creature would be hesitant to approach something like him.
He could feel the Alicorn's eyes on him, inspecting, studying. He heard a quill scratching paper, how did they write without hands? Perhaps they used their mouths. The quill stopped, perhaps the Alicorn's curiosity was satisfied, he hoped not. Reman's hopes were not let down, the tingle of Illusion magic forming in his mind.
Seemed she was using the Mind's Eye spell, perfect. He cleared his thoughts immediately giving the female a blank slate to view, just blackness. The presence in his mind was confused, prodding for information were none was to be had. Somewhere, in the vast expanse of Reman's mind, a wolf howled.
@#@#@#@#@
Summer Glade was kept in a drug-induced coma, fever wracking her body. It had begun to take hold almost immediately after the Pegasus had been brought in. Nausea, fatigue, muscle aches, at first it appeared to be an acute influenza infection, but the spell to cure that had proven ineffective. So, too, had every other curative magic the doctors had attempted, save those for her wing. Glade was shaking, her muscles twitching and contracting unconsciously.
Nurse Practice had been entrusted with the Pegasus' care. The young guardspony had suffered a bite from that beast at the Festival. The nurse zipped around the room, keeping Glade sedated, a difficult task with how fast her body burned through the tranquillizers. Glade's injury had been repaired for the most part, if everything went well, she'd be flying again in a week. Now she'd just have to focus on survival, a fever this high could easily be fatal.
Nurse Practice sighed, she was in for the long haul.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Luna gazed into the creatures mind. The Princess was surprised to see the place was empty. No memory, no thoughts, nothing, just darkness. She jumped a little when she heard a wolf howl.
“Hello there, little pony.” Luna whipped her head around, only to see the guards standing faithfully to defend her. “No, no, over here, on the cot.” Luna turned her head to the sleeping beast, who lay unmoving other than the rise and fall of his chest. “Surprised, you really shouldn't be. I've been awake for a fair bit, just before you walked in through that wooden door.” The voice chuckled a little. “By the way, those lights are murder on the eyes when you first wake up.”
“What do you think you're doing?” Luna felt a pressure building in her head
“Oh, me? Nothing I’m not entitled to, the mind is sacred, and you cantering about it makes this only fair.” The pressure was building, but it wasn't painful. “You see, Princess, I have no talent for the Illusion School, I’d never be able to cast Mind's Eye, but you did that for me.” If the voice had a face, Luna could tell it'd be smiling. “Now, you wanted to see into my mind, right? Well, here's your chance, Princess.” The pressure built higher with each words, the suddenly released.
Luna's vision went black.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Luna found herself floating in darkness. She looked around, finding only more of the surrounding black. Soft hoof-falls grasped her attention. The Princess of Night turned around.
She was greeted with sight of the beast, standing on his two hind legs, his pale skin standing out in the shadows, a spectral wolf at his side.
“So pleased to see that worked, last time I tried this, the mage's mind couldn't take the transition.”
@#@#@#@#@
Princess Celestia began her day by raising the sun, nothing out of the usual, eating a small breakfast of domestic fruits, still normal, and checking on the injured in the infirmary. That last one was the odd one out. Broken ribs, legs, fractured pelvis, one cracked horn, and a shredded wing, quite the list for the land of Equestria. The Princess of the Sun was currently looking through the window of Summer Glade, one of her newest Pegasus guards, the Festival had actually been her first assignment.
The mare was had calmed from her earlier state and was resting peacefully. Her fever receded just as quickly as it had appeared, leaving no noticeable trace behind. Nurse Practice had been sent home by the Princess, a day off is what all involved in this mess needed. Celestia closed her eyes, her thoughts drifted back to Imperial in the dungeon. He'd been polite enough, well, at least not insulting in his behavior, answered almost all of her questions, had he not been imprisoned for his earlier actions, Celestia might have thought he was harmless.
Movement roused the Princess from her thoughts. Glade was waking up! The Pegasus opened her eyes, full of confusion, then screamed. The injured pony arched her chest and stomach out. Pain must have been wracking her nerves.
Celestia caught sight of some ribs shifting.
Luna didn't close the Door
I'm having a few concerns about this one.
@#@#@#@#@
“Where am I? What did you do?” Princess Luna hovered in darkness, face to face with the creature that hours earlier tried his hardest to eat one of the royal guards. Granted, she approached him, under the assumption he was sleeping. Luna realized that was not her best moment.
“Calm down, Princess, I don't mean any harm.” He paused, his gaze shifting around the darkness surrounding them, the wolf keeping its eyes on her. “A bit dull, wouldn't you say? Guess that says something about me, doesn't it?” He laughed a little, that struck Luna as odd, she wasn't going to call him out on it, this was his mind after all. One did not offend an intelligent being in their own mind, that tends to have fatal results. She jumped when he brought his hands together, a clap, in an instant, the void changed.
It morphed into a rectangular room, made of stone, bronze decorations, statues and busts decorated the space. Odd pipes ran along the walls, one of cracked open, releasing steam, different valves and gears turned all around the two. An arachnid-like construct of some sort scurried between them, it hurried through a door on the far side of the room, behind Reman. The man had a smile on his face.
“Much better, wouldn't you agree?”
“Yes, well, it's certainly... unique.” Luna had an uncertain expression about, that nervous grin one gets when slightly afraid. “But better than never ending blackness.” Reman nodded.
“Like I said, calm down, I'm not going to hurt you, well, not intentionally, anyway.” Luna's eyes nearly doubled in size, but Reman's attitude was infectious, that was probably the only thing keeping the Princess from really panicking. It didn't last long, though. “So, this is going to sound bad, but I have no idea how to get us out of here.”
“What!?”
“Wait, that's not entirely true,” Reman held up his hands defensively. “I have some ideas, but, they're shots in the dark. There's no guarantee they'll work.”
“That's better than nothing, come on!” Luna was now in full panic mode. The pony was no longer scared of him, really just the situation she found herself in. The little Princess was starting to remind Reman of his little sister, putting the human danger aside to focus on the situation.
“You used Illusion magic to look in my head, I used Alteration to mess with you magicka flow. Mind's Eye is a concentration spell, your body is still casting it, even though your mind is here. That being said, either we wait for you to run out of magicka, or we interrupt it from in here.”
“Um, I understood everything but the words 'magicka', 'Illusion', and 'Alteration'.” Reman nearly slapped himself.
“Magicka is the energy our magic users utilize as a source of power to fuel their spells, I can go more in-depth later if you want.” Luna nodded, the Night Princess was always eager to learn more. Learning from an unknown type of creature only sweetened the prospect. “The other two are names of Schools, or disciplines, of magic. Again, I can explain more later.”
“I'm not running out of energy anytime soon, so how are we going to interrupt my body's casting?”
“Well, I'm going to need your full trust to do this, but do you remember earlier, when I was in, shall we say, 'different'?” Luna did not like were this was going, but nodded anyway. “If I transform, it should force your mind out, which should return it to your body, that should put me back in control of mine as well.”
“I can tell your not giving me everything here.” Perceptive, little pony, very nice.
“Actually, I was getting to that. You see, when I transform, I’m equally beast and man, still in control of myself, but on the razor's edge, I’ve lost control like that before.” Luna didn't like that.
“How is that a good idea?” Luna really didn't like the idea.
“It's not, but it's an idea. However, I can stay in control effortlessly if I have the right item touching me.” Please have it, little pony. Please have it.
“That item would be?” She took the bait, now to get the damned thing.
“You see, I have a silver ring,” Luna's eyes widened, she probably knew where it was. “When I wear it, I’m perfectly in control of myself, I'll let you weigh the options, I hate being out of control more than I being locked in here.” The Princess considered both sides for a few minutes, Reman resisted tapping his foot on the stone floor. A smile spread over Luna's features.
“I have it in my saddlebag.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
A shrieking roar pierced the air.
Summer Glade was transforming. In her life, Princess Celestia had never seen something like this, the reverse, however, she'd attended with front row seats. The Pegasus' fur had changed from its bleached white, to a dark brown. The mare's muzzle elongated by about an inch, her flat teeth sharpening, mirroring the very ones the Reman had used to nearly cripple her with.
She howled again, rolling onto her stomach. Her muscles bulged, her injured wing freed itself from its binds, fully healed. Glade's hooves cracked, splitting into three portion, each of them sharpening into a wicked claw. She collapsed onto the hospital bed, panting.
Glade was facing the window, her dazed eyes looking into Celestia's own, her tongue stuck out of the side of her mouth. The transformed pony rose to her hooves, paws, claws, whatever they could be called now. Glade showed her teeth, growling, and launched herself at the window. The resulting bang was incredibly loud, but the reinforced glass didn't even shudder. Again and again Glade flew at the glass, even slicing at it with her clawed digits. The very moment she roared again, Celestia came to a realization.
She'd need the Imperial's help with this. The Princess of the Day seemed to have wonderful timing, as she heard pounding steps approaching from the hallway to her right. And just as she guessed, around the corner came Reman, fully shifted in his bestial form, being chased by the guards she had posted at his door.
However, upon further inspection, she noticed they weren't chasing him, they were running with him. Celestia had given up on being surprised by the Imperial, which was probably for the best. Unfortunately, no amount of preparation could help her with what she was about to see.
Luna was riding on his back.
And here's my regular Sunday update, once again I have concerns with the dialogue.
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Do I even want to know?” Celestia didn't even care anymore. In under twenty-four hours, Reman the Imperial had managed to injure her subjects, turn one of her newest guards into a shape shifter like himself, and was now playing battle mount for Luna. Celestia had a thought. “Wait, why did he come here? The nearest exit was in the other direction from the dungeon.”
“Reman heard the roaring and I guess he knew what was going on.” The lycan nodded in response. “He has incredible ears, by the way.” Luna patted Reman on the head, judging by the annoyed expression on his face, Celestia could tell he didn't enjoy that. Celestia looked into Reman's eyes, even in this bestial form of his, they gleamed with intelligence.
The lycan twitched his head a few times in the direction of Glade's window. Celestia realized he was pointing, or attempting to, anyway. Glade herself was still trying to break through the reinforced, wired glass. Reman whined a little, trying to communicate something. He had a look, not on his face, but in his eyes, remorse, guilt, sorrow? It seemed the Imperial felt bad for the transformed mare, Celestia knew Glade must have been in pain earlier, Reman likely empathized.
“I think Reman is worried about her, Tia.” Luna slid off the changed Imperial's back. Celestia was amazed at how carefree Luna was around the man, she'd been spooked by him just a few hours earlier. The Princess of Day looked back towards her sister, who was currently scratching Reman's side, the Imperial was wagging his tail.
“Why do you suppose that is?”
“Well, Summer Glade and him both turn into... whatever these are, he might be able to help. Maybe he can make her turn back into her old self.” Reman nodded, but Celestia didn't know why he didn't say so himself. Celestia didn't know what to make of this.
“I’m not sure about this, sister, he may kill her, or start working with her to escape and cause more harm.” If Reman could display his feelings accurately in this form, he'd look disgusted, so he settled for snort. “Oh, care to add something, Reman?” He gave her a flat look, but his muzzle remained shut.
“I don't think he can talk like this, sister.” Luna flinched when Glade slammed the glass again, louder than before. “I mean, we've heard him roar and growl in this form, and speak in his other, but he hasn't switched the two, so far anyway.” A grin spread on Reman's features, apparently Luna struck gold with that one. Another crash, a thin crack formed from the impact. “So, you won't cause any unnecessary harm to Summer Glade, right?”
Reman nodded, standing straight, looking to Celestia, he raised a clawed hand, pointing to the door. Celestia didn't understand why he hesitated going in, then she realized the knob might be difficult to turn with claws. With a small smile, the Princess open the door, and with her unspoken agreement, Reman entered.
“Good luck, don't hurt her too much.” Once more Reman seemed to have grown on her sister, and Celestia wondered what had happened between them.
@#@#@#@#@
The smell hit him first. Sterile, clean, with a layer of fear and... something else. Reman immediately knew what the other scent was, and he grinned internally. His eyes darted towards the Pegasus, who had stopped her escape attempt to observe him, confusion present in her dazed eyes. His gut told him it wouldn't last long.
As with most of his gut feelings, that one held true. The mare launched herself at him, using her wings to remain out of his. Her claws burned across his back, agitating the wounds he'd recieved from that silver blade, they burned in equal measure. Reman jumped and slashed, his clawed hand caught her on the side, sending her surprisingly light body flying into a set of cabinets. Light, but durable, it seemed, Glade was back up in an instant.
She charged along the ground, and pounced, Reman didn't try to dodge. The force sent the two lycans rolling, the Imperial pinned Glade to the ground. He reared back, and threw his head forward, the headbutt was a lost art in his opinion. A burning pain lanced through his abdomen, Glade had bucked with her clawed hind legs into the relatively soft flesh. Reman backhanded the mare, once more, her light body skidded across the floor, she'd been stunned with that blow.
The durable, lycanthrope mare rose once again, angry, just what Reman wanted. She charged, her eyes crystalline with fury, Glade was running on instinct alone, no more animal cunning in her altered mind. Reman jumped towards her, but Glade lunged to the side, and the Imperial was rewarded with more pain. He'd have to remember that Glade was faster than him, in the event of any future confrontation.
Lycanthropy imbues those afflicted with unnatural strength and speed, when combined with a creature that attacks primarily with the same limbs it uses for transportation, it can get messy, quickly. The buck Glade delivered to Reman's side probably caused some internal damage, nothing major, but still felt like someone sticking was sticking him with a burning piece of metal. Reman hoped Glade lost those claws when, perhaps that has if, she reverted to her pony form, they hurt too much.
The Imperial started jumping and twisting, attempting to shake the mare off of his back. Reman was struck with an idea, and acted on it. He slammed his back into the reinforced window, and noticed the glass cracking in several places, even the Princesses flinching from the sound of the impact. The second slam broke parts of the glass opposite of the lycans, just on the other side of the wire layer. Glade released her grip on him, leaving a smeared trail of blood on the glass.
Reman stepped forward and turned back towards the mare, who pounced and latched herself to his face. Using her hind legs to claw at his chest, she held firm to his shoulders and started biting at his neck. She had a decent grip on the Imperial, and Reman had to strain himself slightly to remove her, of course he could have tried to remove the claws in his shoulders instead of ripping them out. He threw Glade away, into the hospital bed she had occupied, that being bolted to the ground, Glade flipped when she collided.
Glade was still proving to be resilient, Reman had to give her that. She was shaking, panting, and Reman could see blood dripping from her mouth. Glade took to the air, even wobbling then, and shakily flew to him. Reman stepped to the side, and Glade soft hit the wall, she didn't get back up.
Thirty minutes, that's how long she'd been transformed, the time constraint every lycan faced. She'd begun to revert just as Reman's peripheral vision started to fade. The Imperial walk out the door as Celestia opened it for the new medical staff.
He gave the Princesses a nod, they looked at his injuries, which were quite severe. He tried smiling, but that hurt, waving hurt worse. Reman realized he may have been injured worse than he believed.
That was his last thought as his vision faded completely.
Correction, I've never written this much this fast.
@#@#@#@#@
Swirling darkness surrounded the mare, Summer Glade floated in the void. No matter where she looked, she saw nothing, no snippet of information was to be had. Deafening silence permeated the nothingness of this place, not even the sound of her heart was there to keep time. Glade had never been in such a situation, and panicked. She tried to move, run, fly, escape from whatever nightmare of solitude held her.
“Greetings, mortal.” Her gaze shot around, trying to find the source of the voice, so comforting and maternal, yet frightening, a paradox unto itself. “Ah, yes, how rude of me.” The dark turned to white, then gray, landscapes materialized around Glade. A multitude of roses bloomed all around, all except for a small circle directly in front of Glade. Another pony faded into existence inside the clearing. The new mare's coat was white, her mane black as night, her Cutie Mark was of the sun and two crescent moons.
“So, you are Summer Glade, I take it?” Glade nodded, speechless, scared beyond belief. “Please, child, don't be afraid, I have no desire to harm you.” Whoever this pony was, her voice commanded all the authority of Princess Celestia, and Glade was thinking clearly as soon as the unknown mare had given the order.
“What's happening? Am I alright? Am I dead? Please answer me.” Glade voice wavered, she remembered her injury, sickness, and the pain that followed, to her, death seemed likely.
“You, dear child, are dreaming, you'll wake up soon, with your Princesses by your side.” The maternal pony hadn't skipped a beat, so sure of what was happening, so calm and collected. “Child, when I said soon, I truly meant it, you're about to awaken. Take heart, we'll meet again in the near future.” The world began to fade out, whatever hold Glade had to it loosening. The unknown mare smiled and spoke one last time.
“Give Reman my regards, would you?”
@#@#@#@#@#@
A breeze rolled along the small hills of County Kvatch. Reman judged it was early fall by color of the main yard's oak. He heard someone swear loudly, the voice identical to his, it was his brother, Uriel. Reman's twin had just dropped a large chunk of ore onto his foot. That was only time Reman ever recalled Uriel dropping anything, certainly unique, which placed this memory in 4E 197, four years ago. The last year he spent in Cyrodiil, and if this was the day he was thinking of, his last few hours as a true Imperial.
The sun was just about to set. Reman dropped from the stable roof, not of his will, he had no control of this dream. The afternoon's events flowed by the Imperial like a well rehearsed play. His mind seemed intent on torturing him with fond memories of his childhood lately, this entire week's dreams were under that theme. Each and every mundane task and chore building up to their crescendo: having to walk Lynette back home.
“I enjoyed our time together, Reman.” The Breton maiden's voice floated through the air like the finest of Khajiit silks. The girl had once held his heart, she may still hold it, the man could no longer tell, emotions muddled by years of lethal threats the Imperial had faced in his travels.
“I as well.” Reman had never been very smooth when it came to women.
“What do you think of the sunset? Beautiful, yes?” The Breton smiled at the Imperial, the accent of her native High Rock coloring her words.
“I'd much rather gaze at the beauty on my arm.” Reman prepared to hear the old work of Imperial poetry he'd recited this night. The specific poem was written by his ancestor to a lover, they stopped seeing one another shortly after its publication, for outside reasons.
The couple had stopped walking, choosing to focus on one another, instead. They moved close, Lynette pressing herself against her favorite Imperial. The Breton maiden wrapped her arms around Reman's neck, who wrapped his around her waist. They moved their faces closer, lips nearly touching.
An unholy roar pierced the cool, moist, night air. It originated from just a stone's throw down the road, the direction of the Jemane residence. A loud booming came quickly, no doubt Gaston Jemane attacking whichever of Nirn's oddities that dared threaten. Lynette's father had been a battlemage with the Legion in his youth, and Gaston still held that power. A pained yell sent a chill down the spines of the young couple.
A woman's scream followed soon after.
@#@#@#@#@
Reman woke up first, no longer in his cell, but in a slightly cool hospital room. Windowless, every wall but one painted stark white, the exception being the green one to his right. The drab room was thankfully without the buzzing overhead lights. In fact, his eyes didn't cause him pain when he opened them this time. He was pleasantly surprised to see Luna had listened to him, placing him in a room where dim, yellowish lights dotted the walls, creating a pleasant level of illumination.
“Try not to move, sir, you're still not well enough.” Sir? Since when was he a 'sir'? Reman shifted his eyes to his left and saw just who it was that was next to him. It was a healer of some sort, a symbol resembling a snake wrapped around a staff adorned his flank. Reman tried to lift one of his arms, only to be stopped by the healer. “Sir, please don't do that, you're going to tear your stitches.”
Just how banged up was he? Reman knew transforming back into his human shape healed the majority of an injury, but to be restricted to a bed was almost unfamiliar to him. He felt fine, almost too fine after that fight, he wondered how far along their healing magic was to have relieved him of pain. He stopped his thoughts, a curtain out of his field of vision rustled, a voice drifted into his ears.
“Miss Glade, so glad to see you're in fine shape.” Princess Celestia, if he could hear her, that meant Summer Glade was in this room as well, Reman was surprised to hear the Princess using a title, she seemed so informal.
“Thank you, Your Majesty, I’m glad to be this well off, I must have hurt myself rolling around when I had that fever.” The voice indicated Glade was exhausted, she'd have to get used to restless nights. “If it's not out of line, what became of the beast from the Festival?” Reman guessed that Glade was referring to him. He realized Glade had a very hoarse voice, probably from the shrieking, and a bit timid perhaps, maybe it was because she was speaking to royalty.
“I’d rather that issue be addressed when you are fit to hear it, Miss Glade.” That was Luna, Reman knew she wasn't very formal, but was still using a title for the injured mare.
“I understand Your Majesty. Please, don't let me keep you held up, I’m certain you two are very busy at the moment.” Glade's voice had a strange quality, almost fearful of something.
“Nonsense, you are our top priority right now, but we do need to go. We'll be a few steps to your left.” Celestia said to the bed stricken mare.
“I don't understand, are we with the others injured at the Festival, Your Majesty?”
“Not quite, you're sharing a room with somepony you don't know, think of it as a chance to make a new friend, he's nice enough.” It would appear as though Luna and Celestia took turns answering questions. A curtain rustled again, the green wall to his hadn't been a wall to begin, just a flat, cloth divider. “We'll be sure you get the quiet you need, you won't be able to hear us out side this closed space. Don't worry, we'll be able to hear if you need anything.”
“We'll open this up soon enough, until then, Miss Glade, I suggest you get some rest, I think we could all use a nap.” The cloth settled back into it resting position. Reman's field of vision was quickly occupied by the two Alicorn sisters. Celestia had the first words this time around.
“I trust you are alright as well?” The Princess of the Sun may have been genuinely concerned. She smiled when the Imperial gave an affirmative nod. “That's good to hear.”
“Yes, the doctors say you'll be up and about in a few days. Then again, they said the same about Glade before she... you know.”
“So the little mare is changed back, that's good news for once.” Reman's stomach decided that now was an exellent time to remind him that he hadn't eaten in over a day. The Night Princess giggled.
“It looks like someone needs a nice meal. Do you think you can move?” Luna seemed to enjoy looking after him.
Hunger told his body to that he was, indeed, ready to run a marathon if it meant he'd get something to eat.
WARNING The following chapter contains Reman explaining lycanthropy to Alicorns, viewer discretion is advised.
But, seriously, the conversation is pretty one sided, point out any mistakes you find in it.
@#@#@#@#@
Reman was only half-surprised to find that they didn't cook his meat. Luna's little episode had proven that he was, indeed, in a land of herbivores, but he wasn't complaining. In truth, he found the taste of raw venison appealing, and went wonderfully with the salad they provided along with it. The only thing that would have improved the meal was wine, something this place seemed to have an appalling lack of.
“I still don't see why you couldn't have just had vegetables, you can certainly pack them away.” Luna was still on that subject, despite the mutual efforts of Reman and Celestia.
“As I’ve said, Luna, my body requires meat to function properly.” The Imperial had never been asked questions of this nature. Scratch that, he'd been asked those in Valenwood , he almost shuddered. “If I don't get the I nutrition I need, my injuries might stop healing as quickly as they do.”
“Oh, right, that would be bad, wouldn't it?” Reman caught Luna looking at one of his scars, a bad one at the junction of his neck and shoulder.
“Very bad.” Celestia felt it was time to focus on her. While subtle when dealing with visiting diplomats and negotiators, she was direct with the lycan, a fact Reman enjoyed. “So, my bipedal friend,” She began. “What exactly causes you to transform? Glade didn't do that before, and the process doesn't look natural, not by Equestrian standards, anyway.”
“I was expecting this to come up.” Reman took a deep breath. “You see, Nirn, my world, exists in a rather unique way. It rests directly between the Voids of Oblivion, and Divine Planes of Aetherius. Nirn's entire existence is the balance between these two realms.”
“That doesn't answer her question.” Luna piped. Reman held up his hand.
“You didn't let me finish.” Luna huffed once. “As I was saying, Nirn exists in a fragile balance between Oblivion and Aetherius. Power is held in this struggle by the Divines and the Daedra. For this, the Deadra are the only things that matter. Of these Daedra, there are sixteen Princes, who wield god-like power. But don't be confused, Daedra are genderless.”
“Then why are they called Princes?” Reman would have gotten mad, but he still owed Luna for that mind reading incident.
“Because a male term is the more gender neutral option, like if you found a stray dog, you'd probably call it by a male name before you checked.” Reman noticed Celestia's horn glowing, she must have been taking notes. “Alright, where was I? Oh, yeah, the Princes like to mess with mortals, so they cause things to happen for their amusement, sometimes good, sometimes very, very bad. One such Prince is Hircine, the Great Huntsman.
“Before recorded history began, Hircine, for reasons still under speculation by scholars, created lycanthropy.” Reman paused to take a sip from his glass, grape juice for lack of alcohol. “Before you interrupt again, Luna, I'm about to explain. Lycanthropy is a disease containing several strains and sub-strains, Glade's and my own force us to turn into wolf-like versions of our normal selves.” Reman shook his head. “Princess, before you ask, yes, there are a number of cures.”
“You can return Glade to her old self?” Celestia wore a look of relief.
“No, I can't.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Child, I hate to disappoint, but Reman could tell you that, he has a history with me, after all.” The mystery mare chuckled. “But, for the sake of friendly relations, you can call me...” The mare looked around briefly. “... Rose. That's an acceptable name in your culture, correct?” Glade didn't get what this mare, Rose, wanted from her.
“So then, Rose, who or what is this Reman?”
“Wouldn't Reman be able to answer that better than I could?” Rose smiled, as though her answer made sense. “Oh, don't look so mad, I promised one answer, and one you have already received.”
Glade wondered why this was happening to her. A previously unknown monster tearing up the Festival, her getting sick, and now Rose, a mare with weird magic, whom Glade couldn't describe in detail if her life depended on it, and some mystery pony named Reman.
“Don't be so hard on yourself, child. You had nothing to do with this, you were merely protecting those you cared for from danger.” Rose's voice broke Glade from her thoughts. Glade knew she hadn't spoken a word, yet Rose had answered. Just who was this pony? “You'll get your answers in good time, child, rest assured.” Rose started walking, a path cleared itself for her, she stopped briefly to wave Glade to follow.
The two mares walked for what seemed like hours. Perhaps they didn't move at all, time didn't appear to exist here. The air was sweet, almost unbearably so, Glade didn't like this place, she felt like eyes were upon her at all times. Just as she thought this walk was pointless, something Rose did to annoy her, they came to what must have been Rose's intended destination.
Before them rested a large pool of mirror-like water. Its surface unbroken, the water seemed unnaturally peaceful, the roses that grew everywhere here refused to even grow near the thing.
“This is something most mortals never even dream of seeing, you should feel privileged.” Glade didn't get what the big deal was, it just looked like shiny water to her. “Mortals never appreciate what they don't understand.” Again with the mind reading. “You won't, either, because there is no way to tell you, mortals don't have words to describe it, something such as this must be observed.” Rose touched her hoof to the surface.
Ripples spread out from the point of contact, unusually large for such little pressure. Glade and Rose's reflections rippled with it, until nothing could be seen. The waters settled slowly, clarity returning to the images its surface displayed. Glade was amazed to see that the pool showed Princess Celestia, seated in the royal dining room, her sister to her right and... something just opposite of Princess Luna.
“Tell me, Summer Glade, do you see that creature sitting next to your Princess?”
“What is that thing?” Glade couldn't take her eyes off of the strange thing.
“Dear child, that is the only person capable of helping you right now.” Rose said that as though Glade knew her meaning. The Pegasus didn't need help, she'd be up and running in a few days. “Being grounded is the least of your worries at the moment.”
“Just what is that supposed to mean?” Rose didn't answer, she merely gestured to the pool.
@#@#@#@#@
“I can't cure her, but I can help, unfortunately it's going to be dangerous.” Reman did know of a way to help Glade control herself, but he didn't like it. “That's the best I can do.”
“How dangerous could it be?” Luna didn't understand how tough Reman was, to him, dangerous meant lethally so.
“We'd have to get Hircine's attention, and there lies the danger.” The Imperial took another drink, wishing could settle his nerves. “Hircine is a hunter, and is only impressed by great accomplishments in that area. We'd have to kill something your people consider invincible to even have a chance.”
“What are your chances?” Celestia was considering it, that was a start. “I don't want to put anypony in unnecessary danger.”
“I’d say our chances are pretty high, if we make a good kill.” Maybe he could contact one of them, Sheogorath did owe him a favor. “But, it'd have to be strong, and really tough.”
Celestia thought deeply, considering as many possibilities as she could. Reman was glad to see that she was, though the Imperial was scared beyond belief. What he wished to do had been successfully performed once, and even then, it was by an extraordinary individual. Beneath the table, Reman's legs were shaking.
“Killing some powerful creature would give this Hircine a reason to cure Glade?” Luna asked, her seat gave her a vantage point under the table, and she was curious why the seemingly fearless Imperial was discreetly cowering.
“It would get his attention, well, we probably already have it. This isn't Nirn, I knew that the moment I saw your sister over here.” Reman pointed to Celestia. “Nirn has some pretty weird things living on it, but winged Unicorns aren't one of them, to my knowledge, at least.” Celestia didn't know if she should be offended or not. “It would take something powerful to pluck me from my world and place me somewhere else. I'm guessing Hircine was behind it.”
“Why would Hircine do something like that?” The Princess of Night didn't like these Daedra, they sounded cruel.
“Luna, it isn't the place of hounds to question their master. If Hircine was behind this, his reasons aren't mine to know.”
“Hound? You're not a dog, and you certainly don't act like anypony is your master.” Reman liked the little blue mare, make Luna a blonde, young Imperial, and she could be Arriana's twin. The lycan was surprised at how easily he thought of the mare as a younger sister, to be honest, they acted almost too similar for him not to.
“Luna, that's something werewolves call ourselves. We really are just Hircine's hunting dogs.”
“But, don't you have a choice? I mean, you have a mind, nopony can force anypony else to do something they don't want to do.” Luna wasn't going to stop asking difficult questions, and Reman didn't enjoy what he was about to say.
“You see, even in death, a werewolf can't escape Hircine. Instead of whatever afterlife one deserves, if they suffer from lycanthropy, their soul will spend eternity in Hircine's hunting grounds.” Reman tried to hide it, but his voice sounded hollow. The answer was difficult, not because he tried to sugarcoat it for Luna's sake, but because Reman didn't want to accept it himself. “But, for some, that's enough. For them, chasing prey for all of eternity is just what they want.”
Celestia watched this in silence, Reman had made her decision for her. Though Luna may have seen the strange creature as a pony who could succeed through trial after trial, Celestia saw him differently. The Princess saw a broken man, one that had been beaten at every turn. How many times had he searched out a lead in his quest to cure himself, only to find a dead-end? Celestia didn't want to know, but she had an idea.
While she was against it, she would allow the lycan to carry out his plan. In Reman's eyes, Celestia saw hope, as though he had found the one way to bring an end to his suffering, however low the chances. The Princess also saw a golden opportunity. This was not an chance for business, but one where Celestia could get a few laughs. Despite what Reman believed, Celestia hadn't been taking notes.
She'd been writing a letter.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Bonus points to whoever can guess Rose's identity.
Surprise! Glade is Offensive.
Technically, the beginning is part of the previous chapter.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Summer Glade couldn't believe any of this. She'd just heard every word spoken at that table. The mare didn't know what to think.
“Then perhaps you shouldn't think at all. Have you considered taking his words for what they are?” Rose was still reading Glade's mind, it seemed. “Despite how you may feel, you have to admit, Hircine couldn't have picked a better person for this.”
“Reman guessed correctly?” Glade was still having trouble thinking of that... thing as an intelligent being. She'd put the pieces together, she knew he was that monster from the Festival. But with that, she had to accept that she was a monster now, too.
“Of course he did. The boy has always been the smartest of the two. Why, I remember one time, when he was younger, he'd figured out how to pick the lock on his neighbor's window. Oh, Gaston had been furious when he found them together.” Rose spoke of him like a mother reminiscing on a rambunctious child, she wasn't kidding when she'd said the two had a history. Why was it that every time Rose said something, she only provoked more questions?
“Wait, two? There's another one of him out there?” Another monster like that was running around somewhere, the very prospect had Glade worried.
“Calm yourself, child, Uriel isn't one of Hircine's hounds. He happens to be in Imperial Legion, he defends his empire and emperor, just as you protect your nation and Princess.” Glade was surprised to learn that an animal like Reman had family in such a noble profession. “When you meet Reman, I’d keep those words to yourself.”
“Why would I need to do that, I have every reason to think those things.” Glade knew Reman was a savage, what kind of civilized being would put a curse like this on another?
“Insolent child!” Rose's voice was thunderous, shaking the Pegasus to her core. “Reman is the only being that can relieve you of your affliction! Is that how you Equestrians treat strangers who wish to right their wrongs?” The strange mare was oddly protective of the Imperial. “If you are so certain Reman is a 'savage', refuse his help, have one of your Princesses try to cure you, I’m certain you'll find them ineffective.”
“I didn't think-”
“Of course you didn't think! You haven't thought rationally since you came here!” Rose was beyond angry. She commanded as much authority as Princess Celestia, and every ounce was being exerted on Glade. “If you think for one moment that Reman has any ill intention, you’re dead wrong.”
“If you'll give me time to explain.” Glade felt microscopic next to the strange mare.
“Now you seek to lie to me?!” Rose's expression calmed. “Leave, now.” Her words were like steel.
“But, you-”
“LEAVE!” In an instant, the Pegasus was gone, leaving Rose to stew in her rage. The flower filled realm trembled with its master. Summer Glade had made a grave mistake, and Rose would make sure that she paid dearly for it.
“I take it you want me to help?” Rose didn't turn, she knew who it was. “After all, she is my newest addition.”
“Hircine, always a pleasure.” The Daedric Prince wasn't wearing his headdress, nor was his Spear with him, he would have been easily mistaken for a normal man. “But you are correct, I would appreciate your assistance, assuming, of course, you are willing to provide it”
“I'm always happy to help. What do you need done?” The Huntsman wore a smile, he had been watching Reman's conversation as well. He also knew of the Imperial's plan, even the parts he hadn't told the Princesses. The Prince of The Hunt couldn't have been prouder of the man.
“You can override Reman's control with your Ring, correct?” Hircine had no idea where she was going with this.
“Only if he's in his bestial form, but yes, I can. Just what are you getting at with this, plotting isn't like you.”
“How much time do we have until the Equestrian sunset?” Rose's behavior was well out of her normal range.
“About three hours, why?” Rose smiled, much to the Huntsman's confusion.
“Reman is going to want to start their journey immediately, they should be well away from Canterlot by then.” Hircine only knew half of this plan, of that, he was certain.
“Wouldn't they already be at their destination by then?” What was she planning?
“If they were taking one of the royal sky-chariots, yes. Thankfully, Reman is scared of heights, so they will be traveling on foot.” Rose was still smiling, Hircine still had only half of an idea about the mare's plan.
“What are you planning?”
“Just wait and see, Hircine.”
@#@#@#@#@
They'd been walking for two hours. After pulling Glade from her bed, it hadn't taken any convincing at all to get her to accompany the Imperial. Her bandaged wings kept her grounded, and she was wary of the man. She kept at distance that was both safe for her, and inoffensive to the Imperial. Neither of them had spoken, they would save that for when they arrived in, what had Celestia called it, Ponyville.
Reman couldn't believe the name, it just sounded too much like a joke. Nevertheless, a warm bed was a warm bed, and Celestia had made arrangements for them to stay with her protege. Twilight Sparkle, Reman recalled that being her name, apparently, she was well educated, and would be able to help with his plan.
Celestia had told them she lived in the town's library, that by itself made her a person of interest. The scholar in Reman wanted nothing more than to pick apart the information that store of knowledge must have held. He nearly slapped himself for not asking to see the royal archives, he probably could have sweet talked Luna into it.
Reman cast his eyes to the mare walking with him. He was the cause of Glade's disease, a fact that irked him to no end. With a single bite, he'd gone from a man who controlled his inner beast, to the monster that had infected him. To the Imperial, he was no different from the lycan he'd fought that fateful night, four years ago. Did Glade have a family? Had he infected someone's wife? Was she a mother? Were her parents still living? How many lives had his actions ruined?
Some people wouldn't understand. Reman had killed before, for stupid reasons, and he didn't feel remorse, not after the first, anyway. But this was different, he'd taken someone's humanity from them, techinically, if ponies called the quality 'humanity', he should probably ask Twilight about that. Reman knew he'd lose sleep over this.
The Imperial looked ahead, the sun was setting. Reman's nose started itching, he sensed a trap.
His chest started to hurt.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Reman and Lynette took off down the road. That was Mrs. Jemane's scream, and it had frozen Reman's blood. Whatever Gaston was fighting, the woman would be defenseless against. No maid could kill what a veteran battlemage failed to.
“By the Nine.” Reman's family had never bent a knee to the Dominion. “What is that thing?” A monster, fur black as midnight, teeth sharper than any any sword. The creature was obviously injured, severely so, Gaston had done his best.
The beast charged the new challengers, ignoring Mrs. Jemane for the moment. With a command to Lynette to flee, Reman drew his blade, as no noble was without one, and prepared to finish what the Breton man had started.
The beast swung, the Imperial dodged, the attack was oddly sluggish for a beast as powerful as this one. Reman followed with his own slash, sinking, barely, into the meat of its arm. The monster flexed it muscle, and much to the Imperial's surprise, wrenched the blade from his hand. Reman had never been disarmed before.
The beast picked up the Imperial, and began running on its hind legs. Reman found himself flying through a window, into Gaston's study. The Imperial barely had time to pick the glass out before the beast followed. A backhand sent Reman flying into the desk, which was thankfully flimsy. Reman didn't feel the monster pin him down.
The beast's face was inches from his own, its foul breath alone would have made Reman's stomach turn. It reared back its head, jaws open. Reman's hands fumbled around for a weapon, something, anything, he could use. Just as the best sunk its teeth into the Imperial, Reman sunk his improvised weapon into the monster's chest.
With a push, Reman rolled the beast off of himself. He grasped his injury, at the junction of his neck and shoulder. Reman almost laughed when he saw what had killed the hell spawn. If it had been one of Gaston's many enchanted swords, or even a dagger of some sort, Reman would have held a straight face.
But he saw the handle of a silver letter opener sticking from its chest.
@#@#@#@#@
“Why would you have me do that?” Hircine could not believe how vengeful the mare could be.
“Summer Glade needed to be taught a lesson about respect.” Rose was still simmering, but was satisfied with how things went. “A lesson that will continue teaching long after she has learned.”
“That lesson would be?” Hircine hadn't taken his eyes off the pool, watching the two lycans.
“That one does not offend a god.” Hircine shook his head, but smiled.
“Azura, you never change.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
It seems subtlety isn't my forte.
Reman Has the Patience of A Saint
This one is short because I'm worried about how I'm going to characterize the Mane Six.
@#@#@#@#@
That hurt. More so than her first transformation. Glade had the assistance of pain-killers earlier, last night, however, was another story. The Pegasus felt every bone pop and shift, was that what Reman went through? If so, she couldn't fault him for his behavior. But that power rush, so exhilarating, it may have balanced out, once one got accustomed to the pain.
The first thing Summer Glade noticed upon waking was the chirping. The two must have gotten sidetracked and ventured into a forested area near the road. The Pegasus shifted in her semi-awake state, finding another comfortable position. Whatever she was on was firm, but yielding, much like a mattress, her restful sleep certainly suggested that. Glade opened one of her eyes, and immediately wished she hadn't.
She was looking into one of Reman's, the visual orb was wide. Glade jumped back, shocked. Reman seemed equally so, he'd scooted back just as quickly. Glade quickly inspected herself, trying to find something, anything that could clue her in to why they were in that compromising position.
“What did you do?” Glade was met with angry confusion.
“Why are you pinning this on me? For all you know you might be the cause of this whole thing!” Second day of traveling, and now they were arguing, that had to be a record.
“Why would I do something like that?” This mare was the most infuriating traveling companion Reman had ever had the displeasure of meeting, and he had shared a carriage with Thalmor Justiciars before. Reman growled in frustration, best avoid conflict, murder would be counterproductive on his end. The Imperial took a sheet out of his pack, which Celestia had graciously provided, and tied it around his waist. Picking up the bag, Reman called over his shoulder, “Hurry up, if we start now we can get Ponyville before noon.” The sooner Reman was rid of Glade, the better.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Twilight Sparkle was in panic mode. She'd received the Princess' letter the night before, saying she'd have guests arriving around dinnertime. Then she waited until midnight before she sent a reply asking about her surprise guests. Princess Celestia had responded with a simple 'Don't worry', which had the opposite effect.
She hadn't gotten any sleep that night, some of the Everfree Forest's animals were unusually active, she'd heard roars and howls well into the morning. The Element of Magic was worried for her friend, Fluttershy, the poor thing must have been scared to death. Twilight shook her head, she'd nearly dozed off, there.
She climbed the stairs leading to her bed and bathrooms. The purple mare inspected herself in the mirror. Just as she thought: tousled mane, bagged eyes, she was a mess on four hooves. She splashed some cold water onto her face and straightened up as best she could, which was no small amount, the bags being the main issue.
A knock at her front door made her jump. Those must have been her dinner guests, but they were far too late to be considered fashionable, at least by Rarity's standards. Twilight was mildly pleased to find that the Element of Generosity, and not her rudely late dinner companions, was at the door.
“Twilight, so good to see you're awake, Pinkie Pie's been going nonstop this morning and-” Rarity gazed at her tired friend, taking in her unusual state. “Are you feeling alright, deary?”
“Just a little tired, is all, but I’m fine.” The purple mare smiled. “I didn't get much sleep last night.”
“Oh, I understand completely, the noises from that horrid forest would keep anypony awake.” The fashionable pony paused. “What do you suppose could have caused such a dreadful sound?”
“I don't rightly know, but Fluttershy might, she knows more about Everfree Forest than anypony else.”
“I keep forgetting that, I suppose I can ask her at the party later.” Twilight hadn't heard there was a party today.
“Oh, Pinkie's throwing a party? What's the occasion.” The Element of Magic asked, but knew full-well the Ponyville's Party Pony didn't need a special event.
“You haven't heard?” Rarity looked surprised, even though she knew Twilight didn't get out much. “She's been going on and on about some new friends coming today, I’d just thought you'd heard.” As if by some form of magic, the pink party pony came running through town square.
“Party at Sugarcube Corner, three hours, everypony's invited to welcome our new bestest friends!” Pinkie was yelling into a cone, her pet alligator, Gummy latched to her head. “Hi Rarity, hi Twilight, didja hear? New friends! Not that old friends are bad or anything, not that you two are old, it's just so exciting!” She gasped for breath. “See you later, bye Rarity, bye Twilight, remember, Sugarcube Corner, three hours.” The overactive mare took off again, eager to spread the word.
This was going to be a long day for Twilight Sparkle.
@#@#@#@#@
“I'm hungry.”
“Deal with it.”
“How am I supposed to 'deal with it'? We didn't bring any food.” Reman was sick and tired of the Pegasus' incessant complaining. First she was tired, now she's hungry? If food was her concern she should have packed some. Reman scoffed, this mare was a royal guard? The Penitus Oculatus would grind her into dust within a week.
“If you want food, kill something.”
“Why would I murder an innocent animal?” Was she really that dense?
“So you can eat it. Don't give me that look, you're a lycan now, your body can take it, hell, your body needs it.” Really, was that so hard to understand? Glade had canine teeth, something Reman didn't think equines normally had, but it suggested that she was an omnivore now.
“That's disgusting! Who would do such a thing?” Reman was pleading for Stendarr's blessing, he would need help with this one.
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Genius, Azura, simply genius.”
“That depends what you are referring to, Huntsman.”
“They can't stand to be around one another, you're little game is working.” Hircine couldn't believe how well things were going right now.
“You made sure it would take, didn't you?”
“I saw to it personally, it would take intervention by the Divines to fail.”
“Summer Glade is going to learn, even if it kills her.” Azura could be vengeful, extremely so, especially when it came to mortals she cared for.
“I'll never understand why you look after young Reman so much.”
“Hircine, you know I owed a debt, his ancestor helped my, so I help her descendants.”
“Your debt was repaid two centuries ago when you gave her your Star.”
“Don't we owe the Champion more than that, though?”
@#@#@#@#@
That's not even the biggest cat I'm going to let out of Reman's genealogical bag.
First Impressions Matter.
The town was just on the horizon. Perhaps another hour's walk, give or take. This land, Equestria, had seemingly wonderful weather for traveling. On that note, so did Hammerfell's Alik'r if caught the rainy season, so Reman was still skeptical. Not that he thought a sudden storm was going to brew up, but given the previous night, he was worried.
The Ring had failed him. The one piece of control he had was ripped from his hands. He fingered the little accessory, an act he found oddly soothing. The Ring still held power, Reman could feel it, but for some reason chose not to work. Hircine must have had something to do with it. No Daedra could interfere with the artifact of another, every book he'd ever read on the subject had said as must.
“How long do you suppose this will take?” Glade had stopped whining, thankfully. The question was of a genuine desire to know.
“If you mean travel, about forty-five minutes, an hour, tops.” The Imperial felt into his pack, trying to find the little something extra Luna had slipped him. A bag of coins, perhaps forty, all gold. The little Princess had even been so kind as to recommend some entertainment while in town. “But, if you mean my plan, six days at least, that's just for preparation.”
“Why take so long?”
“This forest, Everfree, if I'm remember right, is dangerous, and lack of proper prepartion has killed stronger men than I.”
“I guess that makes sense.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Half of Ponyville must have been crowded into the bakery. Pinkie had managed to give everypony enough room to breathe, even incorporating the second floor and basement. This was the largest party the pink pony had thrown in months, which was no small accomplishment. Well decorated, catered, and organized, with a large banner displaying 'Welcome to Ponyville' hung behind the counter, nopony would go find this inhospitable.
The party pony was in overdrive, which was normal for her. But when she noticed two figures appear in the distance, Pinkie could phased through a wall, she was shaking fast enough. A slim one, most likely a mare, Pegasus, but that bulky one next to it was weird. Pinkie didn't think poorly of anypony, but the big one gave her the creeps. It walked on four hooves, but the movement was off, it even had a tail that wagged back and forth, Diamond Dog?
Pinkie Pie was clever, a fact few outside of her circle of friends realized. She'd seen something that moved like that before, but where? She searched her brain, even as her guests hid and shut off the lights. What was that on its back? Were those... fillies? Three of them, ones she recognized, from color alone, the Cutie Mark Crusaders!
Her view was getting clearer, the little one, definitely a Pegasus mare, was saying something to the little fillies, who in turn appeared to giggle. All while riding on the big one's back. Pinkie remembered where she had seen that big one: the Festival. Specifically, she remembered it sinking its teeth into the mare it was with. The party pony waved forward.
Pinkie's fellow Elements came to her, each wondering what she wanted. Jaws hit the floor, minds skidded to a halt, and two ponies' instincts kicked in. Applejack and Rarity rushed to their respective sister's rescue, even before the others realized what was happening.
@#@#@#@#@
Reman's earlier feeling of dread had been correct. On there way to Ponyville, the Imperial still had trouble even thinking the name, the pair encountered an assault. Now that by itself wouldn't have made him blink, but those participating, however, did. Wolves, wooden wolves to be exact, and three small ponies. Eight wolves for three little foals, not even close to a fair fight, neither was one Imperial versus eight wolves, in the opposite direction, of course.
He'd transformed before rushing in. Against his unnatural strength, wood isn't that sturdy, even if a creature is using it as armor. But his biggest surprise came after the little confrontation ended. Something the Imperial would never expect.
They hugged him.
Well, his limbs, anyway, but the meaning was exact. Children, the members of any society who should feel the most fear of the unknown. Once more, Reman was witness to another glaring difference between Nirn and Equestria.
“Girls, get away, now, he's dangerous!” Glade still had no faith in him, but he couldn't blame her. The Pegasus had no idea how he'd react to contact with children, but he'd soon put those fears to rest. He was amazing with kids, he only hoped that transferred to foals.
But one thing was certain: they were dangerously adorable.
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Let go ah mah sister!” An orange pony charged from the door.
“Unhoof her you vile cretin!” Another followed behind, white, this time
The foals had already jumped off of his back, which gave Reman some options. The orange mare that kept trying to kick him was easy to dodge. The white one, however, kept trying to magically tie him up. The Imperial had no idea rope could be so strong. These two must have been Applejack and Rarity, Celestia did mention Twilight had friends at the Festival, that was going to make things awkward.
“Stop, he doesn't mean any harm!” Was that Glade taking up for him? He owed Luna five 'bits', whatever those were.
“Stay outta this.” The orange one replied, trying to land a buck. Glade continued to try reason, but when it came to siblings and their defense, reason and logic are abandoned. The Pegasus had to try Plan B. she launched herself at the biggest threat: the farmer.
Maybe being a lycan wasn't so bad, she'd tackled an Earth pony like it was nothing, the strength boost was incredi-
Glade didn't get to finish the thought, Applejack threw her off. The farmer immediately reengaged. Glade was quick to follow, but Reman was gone. The clock struck noon, right on schedule, Glade knew about the time restraint, thirty minutes.
Glade had a bit of a smile. That didn't last long. She heard a cough from behind.
She had six Elements of Harmony, and half of Ponyville, looking right at her. She had some explaining to do.
@#@#@#@#@
Reman had smelled the ambush a mile away, literally. Too many living things in one place gives off a certain scent. But, the situation had provided a useful opportunity. The entertainment Luna had recommended was on the west side of town, they'd approached from the north, it was a simple change of direction. The Imperial ducked behind a building, a minute later, he returned to the street in human form, cloth wrapped around his waist for decency.
The man stopped dead, he smelled something, sweat, adrenaline, sex and... alcohol! West of where he was, just up the road. He didn't run, too noisy, but walked quickly. There it was: Arcadia, the only tavern in Ponyville, well, 'nightclub' had been the term Luna used. Reman knew the Dunmer of Windhelm called theirs a 'cornerclub', so he wasn't concerned.
The Imperial threw the doors open. A number of ponies looked at him in surprise, even the bartender. Reman tossed his sack of coins onto the bar.
“Next round's on me!” He was met with cheers. He'd made a good first impression on this side of town, at least.
@#@#@#@#@#@
And once more, I have concerns about this one.
Regular Sunday Update, AWAY!!
@#@#@#@#@
“No way.” The mare behind the bar, Berry Punch, didn't believe a word of Reman's story.
“I'm telling you, the man found his way into the cargo hold,” The Imperial paused for a sip, whatever this was, it burned his throat on the way down. “Gutted the captain in his quarters, and escaped, the pirate crew was none the wiser.”
“How did he even get in?” A gruff, old stallion asked. His attitude said 'cargo shipper', probably spent his entire life on at sea, age must have taken that from him.
“That's the thing: most of the crates were empty, the crew didn't know exactly how many, though. They must have loaded him up by accident.” Reman didn't know if the story was true or not, but it did make for great smalltalk. “You're up, Hard Hat.” An Earth pony stallion grinned.
“OK, so, this one time...”
@#@#@#@#@#@
“Why'd ya do that, sis? Mister Reman didn't want to hurt nopony.” Applebloom asked.
“Mister Ray-what? What in Equestria are ya talkin' about?” The older mare was still calming down.
“Mister Reman,” Sweetie Belle began, “He saved us from timber wolves, just up the road.”
“I certainly didn't see a new stallion anywhere.” Rarity looked around, trying to find whoever her sister was referring to.
“Well, he's not a pony, he's a, what was that word again?” Scootaloo, the tomboy of the CMC, hadn't given her full attention to Glade earlier.
“Lycan,” The older mare finished, which caused eyes to turn to her. The Pegasus was never good in front of crowds.
“Thanks. Lycan, wait, isn't that like moss?” Glade giggled at the orange filly.
“They are similiar words, but they have very different meanings.” The Pegasus smiled, Glade liked foals, despite common belief at the barracks.
“The meaning we don't know is what, exactly?” Twilight Sparkle, apprentice to the Princess, could not comprehend those last few minutes. She wasn't being mean or anything, she was just shocked. It wasn't every day that a monster strolls up to the local bakery with three fillies on its back. Even for Ponyville, with its odd string of events centered around the Elements, this was strange. “Please, enlighten us.”
“Um, could we lose the crowd? I don't do so well with eyes on me.”
“Take our eyes off you? So you can get away? I don't think so.” A rainbow maned Pegasus hovering above the crowd had said that. Rainbow Dash, that was a familiar face, Glade had gone to Junior Speedster Camp with her.
“We can talk in the library if you'd like.” Twilight was the kind of pony that liked to keep the peace, good, the last thing they needed was violence.
“Lead on, Miss Sparkle.”
“Please, just Twilight.”
@#@#@#@#@
“... to this day, we still have not found that plunger.” That was, without a doubt, the greatest story Reman had ever heard in his life. Even though its content left everyone in the room a little red in the face, Hard Hat's tale rivaled those of the greatest bards. “Your turn, Berry.”
“You and everypony else has heard every yarn I have to spin. Why don't you go again, uh, I don't think I caught your name, stranger.”
“Sorry, that was rude of me. My name's Reman, and I’d be happy to go again, gotta show up Hard Hat somehow.” The Imperial thought for a moment, trying to find some great tale or legend. His face lit up when he knew just which one to tell. “It all started two hundred years ago, in the Imperial City, the prison to be precise.” No one at the bar expected a story about jail.
“Emperor Uriel Septim the Seventh was fleeing the Palace. Assassins had claimed the lives of his sons, and it was up to the Blades to ensure his escape to safety.” The Imperial paused for another drink, he was developing a taste for the burning liquid. “Their escape route led them through a certain dungeon cell...”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Princess Celestia's directions had been correct. Twilight's library home was, indeed, near the center of Ponyville, in a hollowed out, yet still living, tree. It struck Glade as odd, why keep flammable material inside more flammable material? The Pegasus knew Twilight had a dragon, which only raised further questions. The door clicked behind the seven mares, locked by Glade's request.
“So, where should we begin, Miss Spar-, sorry, Twilight?” Glade's mind had been going a mile a minute during their little stroll. Reman should have been back by now, whatever was holding him up had better be worth it, the Pegasus was going to give it to him when he finally showed up.
“I suppose we could start with the monster you walked into town with.” Twilight Sparkle, for what it's worth, was calm when it came to problems that didn't directly endanger her and her friends. It was a wonder that a monster running around Ponyville didn't set off warning bells in her head.
“Right, Reman, that's his name.” Glade was trying to find the right words, she was never an eloquent pony. “He calls himself a 'human' but he's also part of a race called the 'Imperials'.”
“So, he's not from Equestria?” Twilight was taking notes, ever in pursuit of knowledge.
“By Celestia, no. His home is called Nirn, with countries I’ve never even heard of.”
“So, he's from some other country, don't give him no right to walk around like he owns tha place.” Applejack was still a little agitated from earlier, she took her sister's safety very seriously.
“It's not that he meant any harm, he lost control at the Festival, but that was a one-time thing.” Glade didn't have complete faith in the Imperial, but the Princesses had assured her that he was noble in his intentions.
“If he lost control once, can't it happen again?” Twilight wasn't looking up from her parchment.
“Think about it, earlier, he didn't attack.” The Pegasus paused, trying to think of what Reman would say about himself. “He has free will, and uses it to the most benefit.” Glade knew she was on a line of thought she could exploit. “Wouldn't that have been the perfect time to act like a wild animal?”
“I suppose you're right.” Twilight dipped the quill in ink. “Now, what's a lycan?”
@#@#@#@#@
Reman had been talking for three hours. His audience listened with rapt attention, eager to hear the conclusion of the Oblivion Crisis. He'd just gotten to the Champion of Cyrodiil opening the doors of Sancre Tor.
“But, that's all I can say, for now.” Reman had finished his old drink, settling now for some rather cheap beer. “I need to be on my way, important business and all.”
“Ever coming back?” Berry Punch asked, just as eager to hear the conclusion as everypony else.
“Of course, this is the only place that serves alcohol that I'm aware of, it's not like I have a choice.” Reman chuckled with that last bit, he actually enjoyed this place, but swapping stories for six hours can drain a man. “I'll be back as soon as I can.” The Imperial rose from his seat, why they had bar stools he'd never know, Reman had given up on trying to understand a lot of the items the ponies had that didn't fit their physiology. But eating utensils still irked him.
“Before you go, here's your change.” Berry handed (hoofed?) a bag of coins to him, larger than when he walked in. Before he could ask, Berry explained. “You payed with gold bits, way more than you needed to. So, you have most of the gold ones, plus some silver bits, and a whole lot of copper bits.” Reman would have to ask Twilight about their money system. If his suspicions were correct, he was walking around with a lot of money, and experience taught him that flaunting money attracted the wrong kind of attention. With a nod to Berry and a wave to the other patrons, the Imperial went out the door.
Where he immediately received a horn in the groin. Reman hadn't hit the ground that hard in years, nor had he received an injury like that in an equal amount of time.
“Oh, I'm so sorry!” His 'assailant' was a white Unicorn with a blue mane and tail, her red eyes contrasted pleasantly with the color scheme. The mare was polite, even helping him up, the Unicorn added, “My name's Vinyl Scratch, what's yours?” She didn't seem put off by his appearance in the slightest.
“It's Reman, pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Scratch.” Reman held out a hand, which the Unicorn shook.
“Just call me Vinyl, being called Miss Scratch makes me feel old.” Vinyl had a wide grin on her face. Friendly and energetic, a strange combination to find on Nirn, but Reman was no longer on Nirn, a fact really needed to get so he'd quit comparing the two worlds.
“You don't seem like the kind to visit bars, Vinyl.”
“Nah, I just work the club, I don't drink much.” She sniffed the air, then covered her nose. “No offense, but your breath smells like someone set a brewery on fire, most ponies would be on the ground by now.”
“What can I say? I just hold my alcohol well.” That wasn't a lie, but it wasn't entirely true, either. Reman's beast blood prevented him from getting drunk, his system just burned through the stuff too quickly for it to affect him. The two shared a laugh.
“I've never seen you in town before, you new?”
“Yes, just got in today, actually.” A look of apology crossed the mare's face.
“Sorry about your welcome party, a monster kind of crashed it.” To Vinyl's great surprise, Reman started laughing.
“It's alright, I think I had it coming, anyway.” Reman dusted off his improvised Legionnaire battledress, it was really just a manly skirt, but he'd punched out more than his fair share of people who called it that. “I enjoyed talking, but I need to be on my way.”
“That's fine. Hey, maybe you can catch my show sometime!” Her smile was back to being huge.
“I'd like that.” Reman gave a smile as the two went their separate ways. The Imperial noticed the streets were oddly empty for this time in the evening.
@#@#@#@#@#@
“That's quite a lot to think about.” Twilight had gone through twenty sheets of parchment, filled both with Glade's information and her own speculations.
“I'm glad Reman stashed some notes in my bag, otherwise I wouldn't have been able to tell you all that.” Tension had gone down, but was still present, despite Glade's best attempts. The lycanthropic pony had needed the Imperial here hours ago, she hadn't remembered most of what Reman had said on the subject, but she kept Twilight busy and answered any questions the elements had.
“Where do you think he is?” That was Fluttershy, by Glade's guess. Unfortunately the dossier Princess Celestia had provided hadn't included pictures of the timid Pegasus, apparently she was camera shy after a brief career as a model. The lycanthropic mare didn't understand why the Element of Kindness was concerned about the Imperial, but she thought it may have been connected to her love of animals.
“To tell you the truth, I have no idea.” Glade said flatly. While both the Princesses had given her explanations on the Imperial's behavior, she was still largely in the dark about him. For all she knew he was chasing cats through the local park and licking his genitals in a poor excuse for a bath. The Pegasus was now aware that her last bath was two days ago, and following her previous train of thought, licking herself clean. Glade had never felt so disgusted in her life.
There was a knock at the door. Twilight briefly wondered if that was her guests finally showing up, but she dismissed the thought. The purple Unicorn opened the wooden door, half expecting somepony to be returning a book, or looking to borrow one. What she did not expect was the sight of a white cloth, which was wrapped around the midsection of a bipedal creature she didn't recognize from any of her books.
Its furless skin was an incredibly light pinkish tone. A patch of short, brown hair rested on its round head. Its face was flat, with no muzzle or snout, but a triangular protrusion on its face probably functioned as its nose. Its forelegs ended in dull claws, similar to the paw of a monkey. The creature was covered in lean muscle, perhaps it was predatory in nature, built for the chase of prey with enough strength to finish the job.
The creature's paw(?) held an envelope, bearing the Royal Seal. Its mouth turned upward, was it smiling at the purple Unicorn? The creature held the parcel to her, and Twilight reluctantly accepted it. To her surprise, Princess Luna had written it.
Dear Twilight Sparkle,
As you may be aware, my sister sent ahead for two ponies, and for you to prepare a place for them to rest. If you are reading this, then you have met at least one of the two. The creature before you is Reman, and I assure you that he means no harm to you or your friends. He is visiting on Royal business and is in need of your assistance. If you have questioned them, as I suspect, you are already aware of Summer Glade's condition.
Reman seeks a cure for her, and to a lesser extent, himself. I expect your full cooperation in this matter. Make us proud, Twilight, both my sister and I have complete faith in you.
Princess of the Night,
Luna
PS: Have fun, Celestia
“Well, that was something else.” Twilight thought aloud.
“It most certainly is, little pony.”
@#@#@#@#@
NeverTardy.jpg
Second Impressions are Also Important
Twilight Sparkle did not like to be taken by surprise. Unfortunately for her, Reman was always a little shocking when first met. The studious mare and the lycan locked eyes, neither moving an inch. The Imperial spoke first, well, he tried to, anyway.
“You don't look so tough.” Reman had been interrupted by a cyan and rainbow Pegasus. Rainbow Dash, Reman had skimmed her dossier, mostly just read the report on her behavior. Dash was cocky, hardheaded, and loyal to those she trusted. The Imperial could work with this.
“Oh, and who are you?” For the third time today, Reman speaking didn't surprise any of the ponies.
“I'm Rainbow Dash, fastest flier in Equestria and future Wonderbolt!” She puffed out her chest, her face displaying unnecessary amounts of pride and confidence. Reman was wondering why she was flying indoors, the thoughts were completely unrelated, but his mind worked like that.
“Never heard of you.” The ego is the softest part of the body, and this mare was no exception. Her expression fell slightly, pride replaced with anger.
“Oh yeah? Well I’ve never heard of you, either.” For some reason she thought that would get under his skin, Rainbow Dash failed at this. In reality, Reman was pretty much unheard of on Nirn, excluding the Frozen Hearth, of course. But the fact that he held no fame didn't bother him, but the case was likely the opposite for the multicolor mare.
“You want to make something of it?” Reman raised his voice slightly and stepped forward. Dash respond by flying towards him, stopping inches away, at eye level.
“What if I do?” Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes, they were still way too big for her head in Reman's opinion. The Imperial responded with the same, on him, the expression looked threatening, instead of Dash's comical countenance.
“Could you... um please stop fighting... it's scary...” The voice was soft enough to strain Reman's hearing, that must have been Fluttershy. Her dossier did her timidness no justice, the Imperial thought the yellow Pegasus would faint if she heard a thunderclap. But regardless of her, admittedly weak, attempts, the two did not back down. Dash growled in an effort to intimidate the Imperial, an effort that was severely wasted.
“Yes, please, this is no way for civilized ponies to behave.” A white Unicorn said that, three identically cut gems adorned her flank, Rarity was the name provided by the Princess. Attempts to calm the two failed again, with Reman getting closer to Dash, their noses touching. The pair stared each other down, violence threatening to erupt at any moment.
That's when they started laughing. As though somepony had just told an incredible joke, the Imperial and Pegasus were holding their sides, tears forming in their eyes from the force.
“You're not so bad,” Dash said, catching her breath.
“Neither are you.” Reman wiped a tear, still chuckling. “Could you believe the looks on their faces?” A grin had made itself known.
“They were so scared,” Dash started laughing again, oblivious to the harm that the others perceived Reman capable of. Everypony thought he played the part of monster a little too well, even Pinkie had been petrified by his predatory facade. The group tried to shake it off, but the Imperial was too convincing, the information Glade provided had nothing to convince them.
“What's with the looks?” Reman broke the, now awkward, silence. He didn't like people staring, and the large eyes of the ponies didn't help. Why were their eyes so big? “Was it something I said?” The Imperial had a sheepish smile, he didn't like scaring women, well, mares in this case. He was, however, fine with killing women that attacked him, if they were armed and posed a threat.
“I think it was what you did .” Glade had been completely unaffected by him. The lycan Pegasus waved a hoof in front of Fluttershy, “Hello, anypony home?” The timid mare didn't flinch, or even blink, at the sudden intrusion. “I think you broke her.”
“Rainbow, AJ, Pinkie, Fluttershy, could you come here?” Twilight wanted to clear the air, and she'd need Rarity's tact to get on Reman's good side, if he had one. The Imperial was scary, that was a given when meeting anypony for the first time, but Princess Celestia had sent Twilight to Ponyville to learn and try new things, this was just another lesson in friendship. Or so she kept telling herself.
In truth, the lycans , and Twilight did mean both, were unknown quantities, variables that could be anywhere within a infinite number of extremes. Reman had appeared nervous, his eyes shifted around and he constantly watched the windows for anypony who may be looking in. Glade appeared to be a no-nonsense kind of mare, her bleached coat and blue, dyed mane spoke for that, one of Celestia's royal guardsponies could be trusted. The kitchen door clicked as it closed
“Now, we can get started.” Twilight gestured to Rarity, who had long been back to normal. The white Unicorn went to her friend's side, the whispered whispered to each other. Reman and Glade shared a look, both hearing them perfectly, it seemed Twilight wanted to lie with the dogs, metaphorically speaking. The two broke up their conference just as Reman and Glade passed a silent message.
“Well, I suppose introductions are in order.” Twilight bowed, or was that a curtsy? “I am Twilight Sparkle, apprentice to Princess Celestia and bearer of the Element of Magic.” Rarity stepped forward, poise and grace all around, now Reman thought she was a Breton pony.
“My name is Rarity, dress maker extraordinaire, and holder of the Element of Generosity.” She curtsy/bowed as well. Reman made a mental note to ask which it was later. “If I may be so bold, your skirt is marvelous.” The Most Backhanded Compliment in History Award goes to... “Simplicity is in this year, after all.” Wait, what? Reman neglected to read Rarity's file, which he now admitted, was a mistake.
“Ah'm Applejack, mah family runs Sweet Apple Acres, the farm just outside Ponyville.” The orange pony tipped her hat. A farmer, likely a hard worker, she must have been Apple Bloom's older sister. A farm meant food, Reman would likely purchase some rations from the Apple family.
A pink bolt of energy flew at the Imperial. Reman didn't even have time to react to the threat. The disturbance of nature and magic was two shades of pink, mane and tail resembling that fancy spun sugar the had in Elsweyr.
“Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, number one party pony in Ponyville!” The pink one had a smile that appeared unnaturally large. It seemed Sheogorath had gotten here before Hircine, if ponies like this walked around. “Sorry about the party, but we thought you were going to hurt somepony! Not that you're mean or anything, unless you are, but then you wouldn't be here, right? I mean, Gilda was mean, but she didn't hide it, but you're not hiding anything right?” How did she say all that with a single breath without losing wind? Pinkie looked like she was expecting an answer.
“No, I'm not mean.” Reman said with a smile. One would think showing teeth that were meant to rend flesh from bone. But, surprisingly, the pink pony took that as encouragement, even giving a 'thumbs up', the Imperial didn't even want to know how she managed that without fingers. His little show of human niceness, or pony niceness as the case may have been, had given a timid, yellow Pegasus enough reason to have her voice known.
“My name is... Fluttershy,” Her resolve had taken a sharp downward turn, Reman looking her dead in the eyes may have been a contributing factor. Had he violated some cultural law? Surely not, the Princess would have informed him of such, unless she was trying to be polite by humoring him. Reman averted his eyes and chuckled, trying to seem friendly.
“Take your time, we have all night.” The little, yellow Pegasus flinched at his voice, still scared. Fluttershy looked around, meeting the eyes of her friends. Twilight, Rarity, and Pinkie gave an affirmative nod, AJ gave a shrug, Dash just smirked. Each of Fluttershy's friends gave approval, eager to get her on equal ground with the Imperial. The yellow mare took a deep breath, then spoke again.
“I take care of the animals around here.” She looked at him, more specifically, his injuries, both new and old. Fluttershy didn't like what she saw, was that rage in those eyes? Reman hadn't seen a pony this mad before, it was a little frightening, despite Fluttershy's most likely frail body and gentle disposition. “Who did this?” The little Pegasus flew to the Imperial, and began inspecting him.
“What kind of pony would do this?” Did she not get that he was a warrior? Wait, Glade didn't know that, so there was no way for any of the Elements to know. “Are these cuts? Did somepony torture you?” Reman prayed for Stendarr to grant mercy on Fluttershy's enemies. “Oh you poor thing!” Fluttershy wrapped her forelegs around his shoulders, then immediately remembered who she was hugging, and flew behind her friends. “I'm sorry.”
Reman laughed, not at the Pegasus, but her behavior. Fluttershy obviously couldn't bare the thought of someone causing harm to an animal. The Imperial wasn't even agitated about being thought of as an animal. One could not harbor anger for the yellow pony, nothing made of flesh was wired to do so.
“I suppose it's my turn to go.” Reman took a deep breath. “My name is Reman, I’m an Imperial from Cyrodiil. From what I’ve been told, I’m a pretty decent guy.” He looked at the ponies around him, with the exception of Glade, and smiled. “I'm certain you are curious about my reasons for being in Ponyville.”
“Nope, not a bit, Glade told us all about it.” Pinkie said with a smile. Reman stopped thinking, he didn't have to give a long winded explanation?
“Yeah, the notes you gave me answered every question they had.” Glade gave, her hoof held out like a person explaining something.
“I'm glad your information was so thorough, but, why are lycans weakened by softwood floors?” What? Who had given them fake information?
“I didn't give you any notes, Glade.”
“Then... who did?” Reman thought for a moment. Who would enjoy tricking the Elements by providing Glade with false information? The culprit would have to be smart, they relied on Reman ditching the lycan pony in town, leaving the Pegasus to explain the situation. Luna was ruled out, she cared about his opinion too much for this little stunt, that left two more individuals: Celestia and the guard that had given them the backpacks. The answer dawned on the Imperial.
He was going to kill Celestia if he ever saw her again.
@#@#@#@#@#@
It was official, Reman hated royalty. Not in the 'Behead and display on a spear' meaning, more of the 'Annoying meddler of affairs they have no business in' way. Really, why did Celestia see fit to provide the Elements false information? The Imperial suddenly realized he'd been asked a question, and had remained silent for a good five minutes.
“No, softwood floors do not weaken lycans.” That had to have been the strangest weakness he'd ever heard of. Was that even funny? He'd never understand this world's humor.
“If that information was false, what else was?” Twilight asked.
“You're talking to the wrong man about that, I wasn't here, I have no idea what you were told.” The Princess of the Day seemed to have a desire for practical jokes, and Reman hoped it wouldn't persist. “Glade, what did you say, without using the notes?”
“Just the monthly transformation and lycanthropy being transmitted by bites, but nothing else.” Glade didn't like being tricked, if it was Celestia's doing, she would have shrugged it off as one of the Princess' harmless pranks. But the lycan mare noticed Reman's annoyance at the situation, and Glade felt the hooves of somepony else involved in this. For a revenge scheme, Glade felt Rose could have done better, anything would have been more damaging than faking information.
“Why would anypony willingly give false information to us?” Rarity, as Reman recalled her name, asked.
“Ah don' know, but somethin' tells me this ain't just some joke.” The farmer replied. Out of all of them, Applejack had been the first to earn a foothold in the Imperial's eyes, Reman valued hardworking individuals.
“You think somepony wanted to hurt us?” Fluttershy was back to her timid self, and her voice was barely audible.
“Glade, could you give me the notes, please?” Reman needed to check something. Glade handed the note cards to her fellow lycan, who began analyzing them immediately. That was odd, the writing didn't match Celestia's or Luna's, the calligraphy was too forced. The notes themselves were useless, the information they provided was completely false, even down to the basics. But Reman noticed something was wrong with them, other than their written contents. “No, nobody is trying to hurt anyone.”
“What makes you say that?” Twilight asked, noticing the look of recognition on the Imperial's face. Reman cracked a smile, friendly and good natured, as though he thought this whole ordeal was one big joke that Fate decided to play on him.
“Twilight, I'll tell you in the morning, after breakfast.” Despite his excited state, the Imperial was tired. “It's getting late, the sun set hours ago.” It seemed some of them agreed, Applejack and Dash both yawned, and Fluttershy's eyes were half-lidded.
“I think we deserve some actual answers.” Twilight did not like somepony dodging her questions.
“Miss Sparkle, you'll get your answers in the morning.” Reman wasn't actually tired enough to sleep, sitting down would have provided enough rest, he just wanted an excuse to get rid of the other Elements. “For now, sleep is the best option.”
“Twi', ah have to agree, it's late.” Applejack headed for the door. “Bye everypony.” The others, excluding the obvious two, replied with the same. Dash and Rarity followed suit, each giving their own good night wishes.
“Bye-bye, mister friendly monster!” Pinkie was bouncing towards the doors, but stopped an looked Reman in the eye. “I hope we can meet up again sometime!” The little ball of energy was smiling wide enough to break the jaws of lesser beings. “I hope we can really soon !” that last bit was emphasized in such a way that brought chills to the Imperial. In a flash, the pink party pony was gone.
“I can't believe Rainbow forgot to mention, but we're scheduled for snow tomorrow.” Fluttershy was finally somewhat comfortable around the Imperial, enough that she no longer lost her voice. “Dress warmly, I don't want anypony getting sick.” Fluttershy left with a small 'goodnight'.
The remaining three stood in silence for a few moments. Twilight let out a breath, her form visibly deflated. The day's stress had worn her out, and her bed called. Glade yawned, halfway knowing sleep wouldn't help much.
“Twilight, where is your bathroom?” Glade asked, remembering her thoughts from earlier.
“Upstairs, first door on the right.” Twilight was still looking at Reman. The Imperial found her lack of faith in him disturbing, the Princesses had both attested to his noble intentions, why did she not believe it? Twilight didn't look angry, her expression was one of... curiosity, fascination? There was still annoyance, but the amount had diminished.
“So, Miss Sparkle,” Reman began.
“Just Twilight, please.”
“All right then, Twilight.” Reman shifted his eyes to the door behind the Unicorn, it smelled like a kitchen. “Who else is here?”
“Excuse me?” Twilight had no idea what he was talking about.
“That door behind you closed earlier, without anyone touching it.” Reman started walking, his bare feet silent as he approached the kitchen door. As Reman placed his hand on the knob, he checked the hinges, it opened towards him. In a flash, the door flew open, and the Imperial caught sight of something ducking behind a counter.
Something green and purple.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Glade settled into her bath, sinking until only her head remained out of the bubbly water. It felt wonderful to relax, the steaming water released every bit of tension her body held. Glade brought her foreleg out, she'd have to bleach her coat again, its original color was starting to show through. For the first time since her infection, the lycan Pegasus had the chance to get a closer look at herself.
Her muscles had hardened, they bulged out slightly more than before. A quick flew showed just how much they'd changed. Her body was certainly curvier, if she was looking for a relationship that would have been great news. But for Glade, that just meant she'd have to get her armor refitted after this little adventure was over. Glade wondered if Reman had gone under a similar change after his infection. What did he look like before he became a lycan?
A better question was if the Princess take her back after this. She knew from Rose's mirror pool that the odds of getting cured were low. So what happened if they failed? Would she be forced to retire, or work in some cramped office in the castle? Would she be sent to Nirn with Reman? The descriptions of the Imperial's home had both intrigued and frightened the Pegasus. A whole world just like the Everfree Forest, for some reason it was kind of appealing, even though Glade was raised on scary stories of the accursed place.
What happened to Reman after he changed? Glade knew he must have done something before he became a lycan. Rose said the Imperial's brother was a guard for their Emperor, but nothing about Reman himself. Glade flexed her wings in frustration, the powerful limbs caused a large ripple in the bathwater. Of course those would get an upgrade, it didn't make sense for a predator to be slower than its prey, stronger wings meant a faster Pegasus.
Glade scrubbed and actually washed quickly. Exiting the tub she caught her reflection in the mirror. Her mane was longer, her eyes sharper, even her wings were bigger. She approached the reflecting glass to continue her earlier inspection. Her manes color was showing through as well, Rarity probably had some blue dye she could use. Glade smiled to get a closer look at her teeth, just what she expected to find. They were much sharper, a nice mix of cut and grinding, the teeth of an omnivore, but those canines looked more like fangs to her. Overall, Glade looked intimidating, primal, predatory... feral. She smiled at the mirror and gave her best seductive purr.
Laughing at her own joke, Glade shook her head and dried herself.
@#@#@#@#@
That wasn't a pony, unless they had a sub-race with scales, Argonian ponies? Green and purple were unusual colors in the natural world for anything other than insects, but that was too big for a harmless bug. Reman was going to use his original theory.
“Twilight, what was that?”
“That was Spike, he's my assistant.” So it was a scaled pony. The idea didn't seem so farfetched anymore.
“Well, you have Unicorns and Pegasi here, I guess scaled ponies make sense.”
“Spike's not a pony.” Reman gave Twilight a curious look. The mare felt the need to explain, “Spike's a dragon, ponies don't have scales.” Dragon, Twilight said that, right? Equestria had dragons ? Reman had seen what that black one had done to Helgen. Barely anyone survived; just a handful of Imperial and Stormcloak soldiers, plus a kid or two, and that pair that headed towards Riverwood. Quite the butcher's bill for one creature, in one day. Reman wanted no part of that
“I think it's best we avoided one another for the time being.” Reman said as he closed the door. “Dragon's are a little scary this time of night.” Twilight giggled at him
“Spike's a baby dragon. He won't hurt you, or anypony else for that matter.” That did nothing for the Imperial, to him it just meant there was pissed off dragon looking for its pup. “Really, I think you two might get along,” Twilight opened the door with her magic, “Spike, come on out, Reman won't hurt you.”
“Not a chance,” Came a voice from inside a cabinet.
“What he said.” Reman gave in a flat tone. The two just needed to avoid one another, simplicity itself. A hinge creaked upstairs, Glade had finished her bath. She fluttered down from the second floor, ignoring the stairs completely. The lycan mare's mane and tail hung limply, not dripping, but still wet, she was smiling.
“I miss anything?”
“Reman and Spike are scared of each other.” Twilight sounded annoyed, but not as mush as the Imperial and dragon looked. Spike had actually brought his head out of hiding to express his displeasure, it was needless to say that Reman was in a similar state.
“I am not.” The two males said in unison. They looked at each other, “Huh. That was weird.” They both blinked, “Stop that.” They were still speaking at the same time. “Seriously, quit it, its getting on my nerves.” The two boys turned from each other with a grunt. Reman shook his head.
“Glade, hold down the fort, I’m going to bathe.” The Imperial made his way up the stairs, remembering to grab his backpack for a change of clothes.
“You got it.” Glade said with a mock salute. Once Reman had closed the door, she turned to Twilight. “Seriously, he's scared of the little guy?” Glade started laughing, the thought of something that gig afraid of baby was too much.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Reman looked at himself in the mirror. Faint, pale lines marked where Glade's claws had sliced his chest. What caused their caustic effect on his flesh? Only silver should have done that, the very thought agitated the still healing wounds on his back. Thankfully, in the case of Glade's claw,the effect faded after transforming, otherwise he would have needed those stitches.
The Imperial turned towards the bathtub, he knew what it was, of course. The Dwemer had running baths, even showers, but they only had one knob: hot. Twilight's bath had two, and this fact led to much confusion in the lycan. Neither was labeled or colored in any way, and the Imperial studied it like a spell tome, trying to make the best guess on which one to turn.
He sat next to the tap, and made his choice. Reman picked the knob on the right, and was instantly rewarded with a blast of cold water. Hissing, he closed it, and turned the left one. This time the water was steaming hot, the perfect temperature for thinking. Reman smiled, he realized he'd done all the thinking he needed to.
Oh yes, the lycan knew who made the notes. The writing wasn't a help, though. There was no secret message coded into the words. Really, it had been the paper. It was perfumed, very faintly, one would have to look for the scent to find it. The message it sent wasn't one of spite, but of comfort. The sender intended to give Reman some good news, someone was looking out for him. The last time he'd gotten this sort of message, it was delivered by the same means, with the same calling card.
The pages smelled like roses.
@#@#@#@#@
Fun fact: There is a High Rock, Alabama
It seems like everyone soul-searches while bathing
Innuendo, Innuendo Everywhere
This is, without a doubt, the most immature thing I have ever written. Credit to Proto for helping me edit, somewhat.borderline mature bits, as well as some exposition at the end on my Elder Scrolls timeline.
If you had no idea that this story was being written by a highschool sophomore, you do now.
@#@#@#@#@#@
As luck would have it, Twilight had a guest room. It was fairly accommodating, decently sized and of comfortable temperature, it even had a full-sized bed. The operative word being bed , Twilight only had one spare, and an unfortunate accident had claimed her too-small couch. As Fate would have it, Reman was never a lucky man. Of course, luck had nothing to do with this. Princess Celestia had been the cause of this particular situation, no doubt about it. The Imperial had read her letter to Twilight, apparently the destruction of royal correspondence was unheard of in Equestria.
Twilight had been told to make arrangements for a pair , and had mistakenly assumed something else. While not directly at fault, Reman still blamed Celestia, she could have been clearer in her meaning.
“Couldn't I just use your bed?” Reman asked Twilight, fully aware of Glade's less than enthused state. Twilight thought for a moment, then shook her head.
“Sorry, but its too small,” She began, “It couldn't even hold two ponies.”
“Then why don't you two share this one?” Glade asked, eager to sleep alone.
“I think you know why.” Twilight whispered into the lycan pony's ear, an attempt to conceal her words from the Imperial. She was going to bar the door when she left, the window was magically sealed under normal circumstances, both facts gave the two lycans little chance of escape. Glade knew this, but understood it was for security purposes.
“Then you're sleeping on the floor!” Glade pointed a hoof at the Imperial, who performed a strange gesture: elevating his center finger.
“Try to make me.” Glade growled at the other lycan, bearing her teeth at him.
“On the floor, now, Reman, I'm in no mood for this.” Her posture became hostile. Twilight had no idea why they were behaving like this, acting like little foals. Perhaps they were territorial, oh, the Unicorn wished she had a quill and parchment right now.
“Neither am I.” The Imperial had already stripped and was reclining under the blankets.
“Then sleep on the floor and stop arguing with me.” Glade was not amused by Reman's antics.
“I'm not arguing.” Glade had finally had enough. She jumped onto the bed and placed her hind-hooves on Reman's covered side. The moment she applied pressure, Reman acted. The mattress' springs creaked with the sudden motion, Reman had Glade pinned underneath him.
“Settle down, and get some sleep, Glade.” The lycan mare growled at him. “Twilight, go ahead and leave, I can handle this.” Twilight did as she was told, not wanting to take a side, and risk offending somepony. Reman looked Glade in the eye after Twilight shut and barred the door.
“Say it” He said with a smile.
“Never.” Glade hissed in return. Reman brought his head in closer.
“Say it ” Glade growled again, this time it sounded violent. Reman brought his face in even closer, but still out of Glade's snapping range.
“Fine, you win.” The lycan mare sighed, and Reman grinned like a fool. “You do know Twilight locked us in here, right?”
“Of course I know, super hearing, remember?” The Imperial asked, though it was more of a statement. “Say, where is Twilight's room, anyway?”
“Just through that wall, why?” Glade pointed towards her 'up', the wall in front of them.
“Because I have an idea, do you want to get some payback?” Reman grinned.
@#@#@#@#@#@
THUMP CREAK THUMP CREAK THUMP
Twilight's face was painted bright red. She hoped they were pulling her leg with every fiber of her being. Every now and then she heard a grunt or growl, Glade was certainly loud . The first time she heard the springs, she thought it was one of them shifting into a comfortable position. But then she heard them talking, just the voices. Then the headboard slammed into the wall.
But when that started, she spilled ink all over her gathered notes on the two lycans. Twilight had since prepared another pieces of parchment. Now, however, she was writing to Celestia, asking her to kindly collect her guests. Twilight had just finished signing, her quill was just within the inkwell.
“OH, REMAN!”
The Unicorn's magic twitched, sending ink all over the letter. Her assistant was sleeping soundly in his basket. Twilight was glad Spike slept like a rock, this was a conversation she didn't want to have with the baby dragon. Twilight didn't bother setting up again, even if she got a letter written, she'd need Spike to send it. Besides, they'd quieted down, just mumbling to each other, good.
Twilight climbed into bed, she was asleep before her head hit the pillow.
@#@#@#@#@
“If we wake up spooning, I'll kill you.” They'd had their fun for the night, each trying catch their breath from the exertion.
“Good night to you too, Glade.” Reman hadn't slept on a real bed in months, maybe over a year, unless one counted the stone the Dwemer seemed to prefer. The Aldmeri Dominion had produced pillow-top mattresses, box-springs, the whole nine yards of the bed world. That was the only reason Reman knew it'd make that noise when shaken, that the headboard would move enough to slam into the wall. One would think they would make them quieter, for the sake of modesty.
“How awkward do you think tomorrow will be?” The lycan mare asked, wearing a smile.
“Glade, that's when the real fun begins.” The Imperial shut his eyes.
It felt amazing to be back in civilization once again.
@#@#@#@#@
Glade found herself once more surrounded by flowers, the blooms seeming much more alive than before.
“Hello again, child.” Rose called from seemingly everywhere, before fading into existence in front of the lycan mare.
“Rose,” Glade began, “Are you still mad about earlier?” She had felt the mystery mare's strength before, this world was Rose's domain, Glade was powerless here. Rose started giggling, which sounded like a mixture of a child's laugh and the cackle of an elderly pony.
“Of course not, last I checked, the two of you were getting along just fine.” Rose was back to her maternal self. For some reason that did nothing to keep Glade from feeling uneasy around her. “But what you did to Twilight was too much, even for Reman.” The mystery mare smiled, like a ray of light in a dark tunnel.
“That's... good to know.” Glade's mouth felt dry, nervousness crept upon her. “You haven't called me here before without a reason, Rose.” Her voice lowered as she went on, trying not to offend the mysterious pony.
“Correct.” Rose said definitively, both a response to Glade's statement, and an answer to its implied question. “I brought you here for one, simple reason, Glade.” In a puff of smoke, the two appeared in a stone corridor. Drab, dry, and dusty, lit by candles spaced about three feet from one another, it was seemingly endless. “Come.”
The pair's hooves clopped and clacked over the stone floors, they passed numerous doors, both opened and closed. Their contents were either too strange to describe or were incomprehensible to the lycan mare. Eventually, Rose picked a door, made of blackened stone, red sigils of some sort were etched into its surface. It whispered like the wind, screams, laughter, battlecries, all echoed from it. The stone gate opened without being touched in any manner.
Inside the strange room, there was what could only be described as a gallery. The sort used for displaying works of art, which is just what this one seemed to contain. Torches kept the room dimly lit, just enough to see the outlines of the canvasses along the walls, but obscure the images.
Rose tapped a hoof to the ground. The entire gallery was illuminated from every possible angle, there wasn't a single shadow present. The pair of mares looked upward, at the the golden framed portrait before them.
A number of figures, each on two legs, stood side-by-side in the informal setting. Some looked valiant, some villainous, others were much harder to place. In the center was a brunette, its face made it appear female, she was wearing golden armor. To her right stood a man, wearing steel armor with a white tunic over it, a crimson diamond was emblazoned on its front, a winged helmet rested under his arm. On her immediate left was another man, this time in a gray cowl of some sort, blue sigils like those on the door decorated it. He appeared to be very nimble
Three figures were dressed in black, one in a hooded robe, another was a female in black armor of an unknown material with ashy, blueish skin and pointed ears, with friendly, red eyes. Glade was reminded of a old friend of her's from Flight Camp. The final figure in black was much more frightening, his gaunt, wrinkled face and crimson eyes sent chills down the lycan mare. Glade turned from those, and looked back to the woman's right.
An elderly looking man, wearing robes, with a staff strapped to his back, wore a wise and fatherly smile. A woman dressed in heavy, steel armor with a cocky smile on her face, though she looked haunted by something. In the background, a man in lavish, purple robes stood with his head down, as though defeated by some unconquerable force bearing down on him. Behind him stood both a group of armored warriors, and a dragon, reared on its hind legs, forever roaring at some unseen enemy.
“Her name was Joan.”
“What?” Rose had roused Glade from her day dreaming.
“I said her name was Joan, the woman in the middle.”
“Who is she?” Glade noticed some similarities with a certain Imperial she knew. “Why does she have a painting like this?” The canvas had both a looming dread, and an aspiring hope, painted into it.
“She was Reman's ancestor, the matron of his family line. To her right is the Reincarnation of Pelinal Whitestrake, the Divine Crusader. Next are Hannibal Traven, of the Mage's Guild, and Master Donton, of the Fighter's Guild. On Joan's left is The Gray Fox, a master thief. Just beyond that is Lucien Lachance, a high-ranking member of the Dark Brotherhood.”
“So, does that make those other two...?”
“Correct again, child. The woman was a Dunmer, her name escapes me, but she was Lucien's Silencer before becoming a Speaker, herself. The old one is Vicente Valtieri, a vampire, but, don't let looks fool you, he was a very kind man.”
“I thought vampires were just old legends.”
“Here, they are. But so were dragons on Nirn.” Rose gave a knowing smile.
“So that's why...”
“You're on a roll today, mortal. Reman saw the destructive power of a dragon firsthand, his fear is well founded.” Rose giggled again. “Though it is misplaced.”
“What do you mean?” How could fear in a dragon be misplaced? They were certainly fearsome enough to warrant excess caution.
“The black dragon was looking for someone: a mortal that posed a threat. Reman, for all of his strength, couldn't even scratch its scales.” Rose took notice of Glade's confused expression. “Dragons in Equestria are like those from childhood stories, Nirn's, however, are vicious, predatory, and immortal. Only other dragons can kill a dragon, if its from Nirn.”
The information hung in the air. Glade wasn't eager to speak, Rose had instilled some base fear into her. Rose looked around for a moment, trying to find something. The strange pony sighed.
“My apologies, child, I was sidetracked.” Rose clacked her hoof against the floor again, though nothing happened. “I brought you here for a simple reason. You see, the two of you are starting to get along, to continue on you path, you need to avoid offending him.”
“Glade, I've brought you here to learn.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Twilight woke up at the crack of dawn, which was unusual, given her lack of sleep the night before. Perhaps her body capitalized on its time. She heard a voice through the wall, and remembered the previous night. She went from purple to red in no time at all.
Twilight left her bedroom, allowing Spike to sleep in, and stopped outside her guest room. The latch moved silently, the barrier spell fizzed out of existence, and the steel bar slipped from its binding. On well-oiled hinges, the door opened.
Glade was awake, the lycan mare had all ready climbed out of bed. The bleached mare looked at Twilight, a look of anger painting her face.
“Let me out before I kill him.”
@#@#@#@#@
Time for me to explain the fucked up time line my story has
@#@#@#@#@#@
By request of my good friend, Proto, I have written a number of alternate versions for the last scene. These are in no way, shape, or form canon, and should not be taken as such.
They are for entertainment purposes only.
Enjoy.
@#@#@#@#@# AltEnd1
Twilight left her bedroom, allowing Spike to sleep in, and stopped outside her guest room. The latch moved silently, the barrier spell fizzed out of existence, and the steel bar slipped from its binding. On well-oiled hinges, the door opened.
Reman was lying on his back, on the floor, his feet still on the bed. He was wearing a stupid smile and some sheets wrapped around one leg. An angry, red hoofprint stretched over his face.
The Unicorn looked around, and was horrified. Scratch marks adorned the walls, pillow feathers were all over the floor. The small dresser was overturned, its contents strewn about.
Back against the wall, rested a Pegasus. Glade had that same smile, she was drooling in her sleep. Twilight took a step inside, careful to avoid anything that may have been dirty .
Something dripped from the ceiling, right onto her snout.
@#@#@#@#@#@ AltEnd2
Twilight left her bedroom, allowing Spike to sleep in, and stopped outside her guest room. The latch moved silently, the barrier spell fizzed out of existence, and the steel bar slipped from its binding. On well-oiled hinges, the door opened. She wished she'd left it closed.
Both lycans were awake, Glade was on her back, with Reman hovering above her, both were looking at the Unicorn.
“So, Twilight,” Glade began, “Care to join in?”
The Unicorn promptly fainted.
@#@#@#@#@# SpikeEnd
Spike woke up before Twilight, as was often the case. He yawned and stretched, trying to shake off the fatigue that still resided within him. He decided to let Twilight sleep in, knowing all too well how little sleep she'd had in the past few days.
Stepping out into the hall, Spike noticed the guest room was barred, warded, and latched shut. That was odd, Twilight never locked that door. Having known him for so long, Twilight had neglected to ward against Spike opening the door, it was unintentional, of course. The young dragon opened the door.
And then Spike became a man .
@#@#@#@#@#@
Shits and giggles are now finished, back to being serious for me.
Not my best work, I'll admit.
@#@#@#@#@
For the first time since arriving in Equestria, Reman didn't dream of Cyrodiil. The environment hinted at Solsteim, the isle claimed by both Morrowind and Skyrim. The Bloodmoon Prophecy had led him here in search of a cure, that was... a little over a year ago, now. It was during the isle's oppressive winter, and the Imperial was dressed appropriately.
The biting wind tore through his fur-lined, hooded cloak. His eyes stung as salt spray flew into them. The vessel lurched in the gusting currents, the waves only increasing the motions. The isle of Solsteim was shrinking in the distance.
Reman wasn't actually on the isle, rather, a ship that just left port. The cold air hurt his lungs, snow fell at a tremendous rate. The Imperial guessed this was a blizzard, having never experienced one before, in fact, this was the farthest north he'd ever been at the time. It was needless to say, his search for a cure on the isle had failed. Whatever Nord settlement had been involved in the Nerevarine's exploits in the Third Era had burned a long time ago.
“Just what do you think you're doing?” Oh, right. He'd been a stowaway on this vessel. The merchant ship had docked at a small port town founded a few years before the Great War. “Hey, kid, I asked you a question!”
The sailor was a Redguard, middle aged, but still well muscled. Hindsight gives one spectacular vision, it would seem. A scimitar was hitched to the desert dweller's belt.
“Oh, the silent treatment huh? We'll see how quiet you are when I through you into the sea!” The Redguard charged, blade drawn, it seemed most residents of Nirn were irrational when it came to violence. Reman shook his head and crouched, with an arm to the stomach, and a push, the Imperial sent the Redguard over the ship's railing. A splash sounded the man's entry into the icy water.
The Imperial turned to face the rest of the crew, mostly Redguards with the occasional Argonian, they looked angry. Most of them were armed. Reman payed them no mind. He was off to bigger and better things in his next stop on his journey: Skyrim.
The lycan grinned, the sun was setting, and a familiar pain lanced through his chest.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Could one count this situation as awkward? Twilight and Glade had been speaking for a few minutes, but the Unicorn couldn't look the Pegasus in the eye. She had attempted numerous times, but failed, and averted her gaze as she blushed. Oh, yeah, the noise, that had to be it.
Twilight heard a noise upstairs, a small thump with the pit-pat pit-pat of a biped's footsteps. One of Glade's ears swiveled around, listening intently. “That’s Spike,” She said. A few moments later, the little dragon descended the stairs.
“I guess I can add increased auditory sensation to my list.” Twilight said jokingly, an attempt to get over her embarrassment. Said attempt seemed to work wonders, only after Glade giggled, though.
“Where's that other guy?” Spike asked, still rubbing sleep from his eyes.
“I think he'll be sleeping for a while.” A blush immediately spread back onto Twilight's face when Glade said that. “Relax, I'm sure that's the first time Reman has seen a proper bed in months.”
“What was that about?” Spike noticed Twilight sudden change in behavior. Glade laughed nervously before she attempted to speak, only to be interupted.
“I'll tell you when you're older.” The voice made the group jump, Reman was quiet when he wanted to be, after all, bare feet don't clop on wood. He was in pants, Twilight observed, she'd seen Rarity's mother wearing them before, but they must have been an acquired taste. Twilight took a brief moment to wonder were he had gotten pants that would fit him.
“I'm not some little kid, you know.” The dragon crossed his arms and tried his best to look mean, which Reman considered both humorous, and adorable from something of Spike's size. Anything to take his mind off the fact that Spike was a dragon would help. Thinking of him as an infant was the easiest way to cope.
“Spike, I think it's best you didn't know.” Twilight did not want to give Spike The Talk , her own experience had been traumatizing, to say the least. Twilight suppressed a shiver, Princess Celestia hadn't left out any of the details, that was too much for a little filly to take.
“But I -” Spike was cut off.
“Listen, just drop it, I'm certain Twilight will tell you all about it later. Right, Twilight?” Reman had a grin, and Twilight sent him a death glare. “Oh, would you rather have me do it?” The prospect horrified the Unicorn more than giving it to Spike, herself.
“Do what?” Spike cocked his head to the side, confused.
“Nothing, nothing at all.” Twilight said hurriedly. “Reman, Glade, we were going to grab breakfast, right?” Twilight began pushing the pair towards the door, well, attempting to. Glade moved easily, but Reman's feet gripped the wood effortlessly, a sort of passive resistance on the Imperial's part. “How does Sugarcube Corner sound to you two?” She asked as she shut the door, cutting Spike off before he could even begin.
“You mean the bakery your friends assaulted me at?” Reman asked, fully aware of the implications of eating at the establishment. Celestia's dossiers had indicated the Element of Laughter, Pinkie Pie, lived above the main floor. “Because if you do, the two of you will be eating alone .” Reman punctuated with a sarcastic drawl.
“Are sweets all they serve?” Glade asked, legitimately confused by a confectionery serving breakfast foods.
“The Cakes make doughnuts, that can be counted as breakfast.” Twilight explained.
“Have either of you noticed how desolate the streets are?” The two mares stopped, the Imperial had a pointed something that should have been obvious: Ponyville was unusually empty for a weekday morning. A shutter slammed closed nearby, Reman's ears perked at the sound.
“I guess the townsponies are scared of you, I wouldn't worry, though.” Twilight said, recalling her experience with Zecora. “They'll come around, I'm sure.”
“Does Arcadia serve breakfast?” The Imperial asked, seemingly out of the blue.
“The nightclub?” Twilight had no idea where he could have even heard of the den of vice. Then again, it did seem like the kind of place Reman would enjoy.
“The very same, wait, is there some of Arcadia in Ponyville?” Reman tilted his head as he asked, not catching Twilight apparent disgust at the prospect of eating in the club's bar. The Unicorn groaned and shook her head.
“Are we eating at Sugarcube Corner, or not?” Twilight tried not to sound aggravated, but the biped was making it difficult.
“I'm open to other ideas,” Glade answered, attempting to keep the group on a level. “Are there any other restaurants open this early?” Another pony ran inside.
“Of course there are,” Twilight replied.
“Do you think they'd be less afraid of my other form, Glade?” Reman asked his fellow lycan, in regards to the townsponies' response to him. The Imperial was met with a strange look, but no verbal answer was given.
“Oh, we could try LeSing's Dining Room, it's open.” Twilight gave, completely out of nowhere.
“Is the food any good?” The Imperial wondered, his stomach growled at the prospect of sustenance.
“It sure is, come on it's right around the corner.”
@#@#@#@#@
Despite the name, LeSing's Dining Room was on the lower end of the quality spectrum. A classic hole in the wall affair, it had cheap tables, cheap seats, and the patrons didn't even turn their heads as the strange group entered. This was just the sort of place Reman liked, no one asked questions of the stranger in town in these locations.
“Don't let looks fool you, our food won't upset even the most delicate stomach.” An earth pony stallion spoke from behind the counter, a spatula adorned his flank, no doubt the head chef, or the only chef if this place's appearance was anything to go on. “Twilight, good to see you again.”
“You too, Mister LeSing.”
The earth pony looked at the two outsiders, smiling at the new business. He turned to Reman, “I've never seen anything like you before.”
“That doesn't surprise me.” Reman chuckled.
“Well, stranger, the name's LeSing, Vanhel LeSing.” The stallion extended a hoof, which the lycans shook.
“I'm Summer Glade, and this big guy is Reman.” The lycan mare introduced herself, even taking onto herself to perform the courtesy for her comrade.
“Well, any friend of Twilight's is a friend of mine.” Vanhel gave with another of his smiles, “The usual spot?”
“You know it.” Twilight answered. They were led to a corner booth with a view of the door, ideal in the event of an attack, that was an unconscious thought Reman had, couldn't help but think it. The three sat down, Reman on his own side, with Glade and Twilight on the other, the lycan mare had the aisle seat.
“Now, then,” Vanhel begins, “What can I get you?”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Hircine was staring into Azura's mirror pool, his fellow Prince just across from him, the Lady of Twilight's eyes were closed. Daedra did not require sleep, though higher functioning members of the species did enjoy it on occasion. In any case, the two Princes had been watching the lycans for the past twenty hours.
Reman was a perplexing individual, to be sure. Even though the Imperial was an adult, he wasn't above childish acts of petty vengeance. Hircine supposed this was the mystery of mortals, walking contradictions unto themselves. The Huntsman grinned, he knew the races of Nirn thought the same of the Daedra, but wondered how they would react if they knew the curiosity was mutual.
Nirn was a joint effort , if the accident of creation could be called that, of the Divines of Princes. Mortals were both created by the godly beings, and were the creators of them, as well. Worship gave the warring deities power, though few outside the Daedra acknowledged it. Hircine had been around long enough to see some of his fellow Princes die from the binding act. The ancient rites that held the mortals and deities in an intertwined existence, power would rise with worship, if one didn't have any faithful, nothing would happen.
But, if one was worshiped, then lost their following, the deity would fade.
The Huntsman shuddered at the thought. Mortals held the lives of the Divines and Daedra in their little, temporary, fragile hands. The patron Prince of the Dwemer had faded when the Elves vanished. That was so long ago, Hircine almost doubted he had even existed to begin with. So foolish were those who attempted to tip the balance of the universe, deity or not, there was a price to be paid for blatant disregard for the rules. The Huntsman held nothing but disdain for them, they who thought to violate the single Truth of Existence.
But that still left many questions, too many to ever answer. Sheogorath's Champion and Talos of Old Atmora, both had ascended to the mantle of godhood, had they broken the rules? The creation of Malacath, and the Death of Lorkhan fell into the same gray area. Perhaps the Truth was being bent , but never broken, not completely. No, they returned balance, the loss or gain placed the scales back on the level.
“Having one of your moments, Hircine?” Azura asked, one eye open.
“Unfortunately.” The Huntsman was almost envious of his devotees, mortal life was never boring.
“You shouldn't dwell on these things, it's not like we can change the Truth, even if we wanted to.”
“How do you think Sheogorath reacted upon ascension?”
“Scared, surprised, I truthfully have no idea.” Azura gazed into her pool, “But, during his mortal reign, the Madgod was being prepared for his future role.”
“That was the first meeting where both Sheogorath and Jyggalag were present.” Hircine recalled.
“Yes, the Mad Prince was with us so long, I had almost forgotten that he was created by the rest of us.” The was a hint of some strange emotion in Azura's voice, difficult to place. “I assume you were thinking about Ascension, again, weren't you?”
“Yes, I was.” Hircine paused for a moment, pondering both himself, and the Prince across from him. “Were you ever mortal?”
“No, I’ve been around since the beginning.” Azura looked to the ground. “It seems like eons have passed, doesn't it?”
“They have, since your creation, anyway.” Azura knew where Hircine was taking this, it was never pleasant.
“Hircine,” Azura's voice almost broke as she thought about her choice of words. Could it really be happening? This had never even been conceived as a possibility. Sheogorath and Malacath both denied it when asked, but the Huntsman had never been questioned about this.
“Hircine, are you remembering your life?”
“Twilight is an unusual name,” Reman said of nowhere, before he filled his mouth yet another forkful of eggs. The three had been eating in relative peace, making smalltalk when necessary. The subjects were never on track for more than a few moments, with Reman's comment being the latest derail.
“Twilight is a perfectly normal name.” The Unicorn replied with a huff. “It's your name that's weird.” She said, before she realized how offensive that could have been. To her surprise, Reman's offense was obviously faked.
“I'll have you know that I'm named after a war hero.” The Imperial said in a false, incredulous tone. “The great Reman Cyrodiil!” The Imperial, while remaining seated, struck what could have been considered a heroic pose, though he ended up looking comical, instead. The two mares laughed at the man's antics, who laughed in turn.
“Just what was so great about him?” Glade smirked as she leaned over the table. “I mean, if he shares a name with you , he can't be all that amazing.” Now, the Imperial became serious, which stunned the mares across from him.
“Reman the Cyrodiil, founder of the Second Empire of Tamriel, a culture-god, he was worshiped alongside Talos until the first century of the Third Era.” The lycan propped head on his elbows, “Cyrodiil routed the Akiviri invaders at the Battle of Pale Pass, he even convinced his former enemies to help him build his great empire.”
“You're named after a man your people consider a god?” Twilight cocked her head, intrigued by his polytheistic society, doubly so in regards to gods falling out of favor.
“Reman was once considered a god, I have no idea why he is no longer worshiped, but I wish he was.” Reman grinned conspiratorially at the prospect.
“Why, if your people stopped, doesn't that mean he wasn't that great to begin with?” Glade asked. “Or do you just want use your name as a way to meet mares?” Reman suddenly realized Glade had no idea what a female human was called, odd that the he never informed her. Nevertheless, Reman chuckled at her joke.
“Actually, that isn't the reason, but it would be a nice benefit. I just want to see the Dominion try and outlaw the worship of two hero-gods.” Reman's eyes held an inferno, something about this Dominion had riled something inside him, that much was obvious to the two ponies with him.
“Dominion?” Twilight repeated the word to herself, not meaning to ask a question, except to herself. Regardless of her intent, Reman scoffed, his disgust painfully obvious.
“An upstart nation that defeated the Empire, only because the Emperor surrendered when Altmer blades pressed at his throat.” Whether Reman was angry with the Dominion, or his Emperor, Twilight had no idea. “But, enough of that, let's finish eating.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Despite the snow, it was warm enough to warrant going nude, for the ponies around town, anyway. That was Reman's observation from this particular rooftop. The Imperial had managed to convince Twilight to join him here, with Glade agreeing outright. This perch would be private enough to speak freely, after all, Reman was in Ponyville for business.
“You're being awfully quiet, Reman.” The Unicorn observed, taking in the Imperial's odd expression, as though he was mulling over something important.
“I'm just trying to think of the best way to word this request.” He replied, as though his statement was expected. Twilight took notice of how very little he cared about her response, however nonverbal it may have been.
“Why don't you just ask, it's not like she can really deny you the information.” Glade spoke from her perch above her two associates, not a care in the world. She was met with a flat look from her Imperial pack-mate. “Just saying.”
“You can ask for anything, I’ll do my best to help,” Twilight decided to refine her statement. “Within reason, of course.” She added with a bashful smile, an attempt at humor, it would seem.
Reman was quiet for a few moments, truly mulling over his options. While he'd never been eloquent, the Imperial was decent when it came to getting what he wanted. The subject had to be approached in a certain manner, a subtle stroking of the ego, and that posed the problem. Rarity, Dash, hell, even Applejack would have been easier to deal with. Twilight had been a student under Celestia, lots of book knowledge, but little real-world experience; tiptoeing around the issue wouldn't work. Reman just had to come flat out, and face the consequences.
“As you know, Glade and I are preparing for an... expedition, of sorts.” Reman would have to be professional, no insider terms for the Unicorn. “Adventures require supplies, you know, potions, camping gear, clean cloths, the works.” Reman stopped leaning of the roof's low wall, and faced the mares. “More specifically, Glade and I will be needing armor, preferably something durable, and maybe some weapons, but those aren't necessary.”
Weapons? Armor? The only place Twilight could think of that had those was the armory in Canterlot. The blacksmith in town only knew how to make a few items, mostly horseshoes and nails. This posed a problem for them, a very large one, at that. “I'm certain an intelligent girl like yourself would be able to help.” Check ego stroking off the list.
“I'm sorry, Reman, but you can’t buy weapons in Ponyville.” Twilight's words sent a lance of frustration through the Imperial. No regular weapons, unless he contacted the Princesses, and that was a revelation he did not want to make. “But I do know where you can get some armor.” Twilight added in an attempt to give Reman some hope. Regardless of success, the Unicorn had managed to capture his attention.
A myriad a possibilities ran through his head. What materials were used, how reliable they would be under constant use, things of that nature. But, and this was the most prominent question he had, where would he procure these bits of apparel? Some skilled, eccentric artisan, or perhaps a gruff, old blacksmith who could forge anything, as long as it's simple and strong? Old encounters flashed before his eyes, he tried to find a pony that matched one of his old acquaintances.
“You remember Rarity, right?” Reman's world came crashing down. Rarity was a seamstress, that meant clothes, fancy cloths, fancy, itchy clothes . Now, Reman wasn't a nudist, however, he knew suit cloths were often itchy, and difficult to move in. Only once had Reman fought while in formal attire, and he'd nearly died. Maybe he was just being paranoid, and by the Nine, he hoped he was.
“Let's just get this over with.” Glade said for him, floating down from her perch. She shared Reman's look of mild depression, pack-mates had to put up a uniform front, right?
@#@#@#@#@
Carousel Boutique, to Reman, it looked like the tent from that circus he'd seen in Elsweyr. Two ponies were talking inside, mares by the voices, one was easily placed as Rarity, the other seemed familiar, but Reman couldn't put his finger on it. The trio approached to door, and Twilight was kind enough to knock.
“Come in, I'm just about to finish up.” At the seamstresses beckon, the three entered the establishment. Just as Reman expected, full of bits of cloth strewn here and there, measuring tapes of various length, even horse-shaped mannequins. The lycan's eyes focused on the two mares he'd heard speaking earlier: Rarity and another Unicorn, still a child, Sweetie Belle, if Reman recalled correctly.
“Hello, Sweetie Belle,” Glade spoke, before the little Unicorn could get the first word. The attempted distraction failed spectacularly, the filly gazed up at Reman, curious at what he was. Credit should be given to Sweetie Belle, most ponies in town hid from the Imperial.
“Hello, I’m sorry you don't recognize me.” The Imperial knelt to the filly's height, still no reaction of fear from the young one. “I'm Reman.” The filly's eyes widened in amazement and curiousity.
“But, you don't look like him.” Sweetie Belle cocked her head to the side, trying to find the logic in his statement. The Reman she knew walked on four legs and was much more... monstrous. What stood before her now, however, appeared to be some sort of pale, fur-less Diamond Dog.
“Sweetie Belle,” Rarity began, “I think you should go play, outside.” The filly apparently hadn't heard her older sister, she certainly didn't indicate to the contrary. “Sweetie Belle, go outside and play.” Rarity was once again ignored.
“Little filly, I assure you, I am the Reman.” The Imperial said, in a bit of a bragging tone, as though he considered himself something special. Glade knew the case was just the opposite, but that's beside the point.
“Prove it.” Sweetie Belle had been convinced from the beginning. After all, Glade was new, and Twilight walked in with her. By default, that meant the Imperial was, in some way, involved.
“There were eight wolves,” Reman replied. Sweetie Belle ran up to the man, and hugged his leg, it was the only spot she could reach. “It's good to see you, too.” He chuckled and patted the filly's head.
“I didn't know you turned into... this.” Right, Glade had dropped the whole lycan term without explaining what it truly meant. The Imperial realized that Rarity was giving him a look of distrust, which, in Reman's opinion, was a good thing. One should look after their younger siblings.
“I guess I'm just full of surprises.” Reman smiled in a friendly way, an attempt to persuade Rarity to allow the little filly to remain in the room. However, a thought struck him, and made the Imperial change his mind.
“Sweetie Belle, don't you have plans with your friends today?” Rarity asked, by some mercy of the Divines, Sweetie Belle's ears perked up.
“You're right, we were gonna try bear catching at Fluttershy's!” The filly's eyes widened as she remembered. “I have to go!” Out the door she went, without so much as a goodbye. Reman had to give her credit, she could run if she wanted.
“Rarity, I have to thank you for that.” Reman received a quizzical look from the white Unicorn. “I'm here to buy some armor for Glade and myself.” That wasn't much of an explanation.
“Armor? I haven't worked on a suit of armor in months, certainly nothing for a biped.” Rarity appraised the lycans, pondering something that Reman couldn't pin down.
“Can you make them a set each?” Twilight asked, trying to be helpful.
“Of course I can, Twilight.” Rarity giggled as she spoke, finding some humor in her friend's inquiry. “It's just a matter of taking the appropriate measurements.” Rarity gave the Imperial a once-over, the spark of ambition her eyes held didn't escape the man. “Reman will present a delightful change from my usual clientele.”
@#@#@#@#@
Reman described what he was looking for, with Glade pitching in adjustments for her set. The Imperial requested something of medium to heavy weight, preferably plated in some hard metal, with a large range of movement. Glade's, of course, was light, and plated only on her torso and the lower portions of her legs, with padded slots for her wings.
It was unfortunate that Equestrian metals were notoriously lightweight. A simple solution was found in something called a shark-suit , by Reman's best guess, it was a type of full-body, tightly woven chainmail. When the Imperial picked up a square of the material, he was pleasantly surprised by its weight, it was firmly in the medium class range. He was almost disappointed that Rarity decided to work on Glade before him.
The process Rarity used was certainly unique, at least to Reman, it may have been common in Equestria for all he knew. Using her magic, the Unicorn lifted several pieces of cloth, Rarity called it Kevlar , sewing the bits together, and bolting the plates onto the article. All of this was done with Glade wearing the ensemble, which Reman found amazing.
However, what Reman found most interesting was far from the Unicorn's art, in truth he was much more interested in the metal being used. The armor's plates were a silvery blue, an alloy that must have been absent on Nirn, as the Imperial had traveled to almost every nation present in Tamriel, and he'd never seen anything like it.
“And... done!” Rarity's words brought the man out of his thoughts. “You were fantastic, darling, perfectly still while I worked.”
“When you have needles flying around, you kinda have to be.” Glade chuckled, two hours had gone into making and balancing the suit, but she hadn't budged an inch. “So, Reman, what do you think?” The lycan mare flourished her wings and spun around, giving her pack-mate a great view of her armored form.
“I think it looks serviceable enough for this expedition.” Reman looked to Rarity, “You're work is wonderful.”
“Thank you, Reman.” Rarity had a bashful smile on her face, after all, that had been the first compliment given by the Imperial. “But it's no trouble, really.”
“Oh, stop being modest,” Reman replied. “You are a master craftsman.” Rarity took his praise to heart as the Imperial inspected Glade's new armor.
“You're just saying that.”
“Rarity,” The Imperial began, “You can do something I can't, whether it's forging or sewing.” The man smiled at the white Unicorn, he'd been right about the eccentric artisan idea of his. He wasn't trying to stroke her ego, not right now, anyway, but he continued his praise. One may find his behavior strange, given his usual attitude towards clothes makers. “Do you think we can start on my set now?”
“Of course, now drop those pants.”
Not the biggest chapter, but Grad Exams have kept me from writing much
“Is it always...?”
“Yep.”
“But, you aren't...?”
“Believe me, you'd know if he was.”
“And you ponies wonder why I insist on wearing clothes.”
“Um, let's move on, shall we?” Rarity was over the initial shock of foreign anatomy. A small smile spread over Reman's face, Rarity was a proper lady, and he was slightly put off by her reaction. The response came from his upbringing, being a noble has that effect on one's mind. Smiling was Reman's form of blushing, but only in embarrassment.
The entire set begin with a layer of cloth over every part the armor would touch his body. It was the covered by sections of the chainmail-like shark-suit, which Rarity magically fused together, finally, the silvery blue plates were bolted on. The Imperial's joints practically rejoiced at the increased pressure, they'd been free of this amount of weight for what felt like years. Reman tested each of his limbs, learning how well they could move.
“That's more like it.”
“Don't get too excited, we still need to make your boots.” Rarity chastised lightheartedly, “Now, hold out your right foot.” Reman complied, at the appendage was wrapped in Kevlar, which Rarity described as finely woven spider silk, stronger than steel. Reman couldn't argue with the results, the material was seemingly perfect for lightweight armor variants, pretty comfortable, too. At Reman's request, the shin guards extended above the knees, ending in a point about an inch and a half above them. The modification was also performed on the arm bracers.
The Imperial performed a high kick, knee strike, and elbow jab. Moving in the ensemble was easy, mostly due to Reman's preferences for the heavier armor classes. Feeling mischievous, Reman swung his fist towards his favorite target: Twilight Sparkle. He didn't actually hit her, of course, that would be unnecessary violence.
Twilight squeaked and jumped back after she saw how close his fist came. “I felt the wind off that!” She had it on good authority that Reman would never intentionally cause her harm, so she knew he was kidding around. The Unicorn was amazed by how quickly the Imperial had warmed up to her, when the man first arrived, he had been all business.
“That was pretty fast,” Glade added. “Considering you're in a tin suit, and all.”
“Are you seriously trying to start a light vs. heavy argument, Glade?” Reman knew he would win this little altercation.
“Heavy armor keeps you from running.”
“You wouldn't need to run if you could actually fight.” Glade's eyes widened, then the lycan mare glared at the man.
“I recall my squadmates taking you down pretty easily.” Now it was Reman's turn to glare.
“All the speed in the world didn't keep me from clipping that wing.” Twilight and Rarity gasped, they knew that Pegasi held their wings above almost anything else. Glade's reaction, however, was much more subtle, deeper within her being.
“You, me, outside, five minutes.” She seethed every word, and left shortly after. The Imperial knew exactly where this was going, he'd been in a number of situations like this. Reman began to strip himself in order to comply with Glade's unspoken request.
“Why are you removing your armor?” Twilight asked, completely oblivious to the challenge that had been issued.
“Twilight,” Rarity began. “This is a matter of personal honor, a duel between warriors.” Reman was surprised by her knowledge, but quickly remembered her status. While the Imperial despised royalty, he couldn't help but feel at ease around those of his own class, like attracts like, as it were. “What is being wagered, if I may ask?”
“Nothing,” Reman replied. “we aren't wagering or testing anything, we're just working off some steam.”
“Couldn't you find a better way than violence?” Twilight didn't understand the Imperial's logic.
“Would you prefer our other method?”
“What other method?” The purple Unicorn couldn't recall them performing any sort of stress relieving activity.
“You didn't hear us?” Reman grinned as Twilight understood his meaning. The purple Unicorn blushed, Rarity followed suit, embarrassed by the warrior's behavior. “Well, Twilight, which would you prefer?”
“I'm not going to answer that.” Twilight's cheeks red enough that Reman was worried blood would start spraying from them.
“I think it's amazing that you didn't notice me finish stripping.” The Imperial had a cheeky smile on his face. The mares were about to object, when something grabbed their attention: Reman's pupils were rapidly contracting and relaxing, a strobe effect. “She wants a repeat of the Festival, she'll get it.”
Reman hit the floor as bones shifted into their new positions.
@#@#@#@#@#@
Glade wasn't even mad, actually, she was confident Reman knew her true intentions about this little pissing contest of theirs. All the lycan wanted was a fair chance to fight the Imperial in his transformed state. She was looking forward to swapping blows with her pack-mate, a challenge Glade had never experienced on even ground.
A scent hit the mare's nose, like blood mixed with sweat, with a bit of dirt thrown in for good measure. A series of heavy steps drew her attention to the door, bipedal, but they were much louder than Reman's. Two large, clawed hand gripped either side of the door frame, and a monster pulled itself through the opening.
A monster Glade was oh so familiar with.
“Come on, let's find out, once and for all, who's better.” Glade flew at her fellow lycan, eager to test herself. Reman swiped at her, claws glanced off her armor. The Imperial seemed to smile, reveling in the workout he was sure to receive. Glade swung around and clocked the man on the head, and received an elbow in the gut. The mare tumbled to the ground from the force, by Celestia, Reman could hit pretty hard.
She was back on her hooves in a single moment, and slammed her head into the Imperial's chest, propelled by both her legs and wings. A hollow thud echoed through the air. Reman clutched at his ribs, an angry ache permeated the afflicted area. Glade smirked at his plight, but quickly retracted her opinion when the Imperial growled at her.
There were very few things Summer Glade feared. A werewolf at least four times her weight charging her just some happened to be one of those little phobias. It was unfortunate that she put herself in a situation where that was not only possible, but highly likely. Glade jumped over the man, and grabbed onto his back, the mare thought a headlock would work wonders.
Reman rolled on the ground, pressing Glade into the moist soil, the mare eased her grip. Reman jumped up and brought his claws down. The lycan mare felt the transformed Imperial pin her forelegs to the ground.
“I'm not saying it this time,” Glade hissed through her teeth, to which, Reman pressed on her forelimbs harder. Glade whimpered even as she scowled in anger at her fellow lycan. The Imperial growled and added pressure.
“Let go,” Glade almost roared. She started to struggle against her comrade’s grip, and made an unusual amount of progress. However, progress doesn't mean success, and the mare only made her situation worse. Failing to free her forelegs, Glade kicked out, and scored a direct hit against the Imperial's one vulnerable point. Reman's damage resistance must have gone through the roof, because that only made him mad. The Imperial brought his face down, and the look of murder in those eyes chilled Glade to the core.
“I surrender.”
Did you guys know there's this thing called real life? It has been kicking my ass lately.
That night, Glade wasn't visited, and for the first time in years, Reman didn't dream. The day's events had progressed as one would expect, Rarity had been amazed by the amount the lycan was willing to pay, insisting that they accept her discounted price. That was the first time the Imperial had ever seen a merchant give themselves a raw trade, but, the naivete of these ponies was astounding.
Part of Reman wanted to lounge in bed all day, Twilight was securing potions and herbal remedies from a zebra, whatever that was. This bed was comfortable enough to sleep the day away, and the warm body curled next to him only added to that comfort. There was nothing romantic in his meaning, share beds was a survival tactic he'd learned in Skyrim. Now, he was in the habit of sleeping with someone, he just didn't get enough rest sleeping alone, for a lycan, that says something.
A lazy day might do some good, but Reman wasn't one to become complacent. He'd let Glade sleep in, but the Imperial was getting something done today. With Twilight getting their medical supplies, Reman could shave off a day for preparation, maybe more if he moved quickly. All he needed was rations for about a week, no, less, they only needed to kill a strong sacrifice, shouldn't take that long. Popping his back, the lycan set off towards Sweet Apple Acres.
@#@#@#@#@#@
On his way to the orchard, Reman felt eyes staring at him. The lycan did not like being stared at, especially when he couldn't see the observer. The Imperial's eyes darted between trees, searching for any sign of his stalker. Nothing, not even the faintest rustling of leaves, nor the tiniest scent wafting on the breeze. Only once had he ever been observed by someone this stealthy, and that had ended poorly for all involved.
Reman slowed his pace, no sense in tiring himself out before the confrontation could begin. Well, if there would be a fight. Whoever, or whatever, was following him was being quiet about it, they evaded his detection so flawlessly, the Imperial nearly feared his hunter was a fellow lycan. They had stealth skills that put the Thieves' Guild’s members to shame. A blur zoomed across the path ahead of him, too fast to really get a good look at it.
“Told you we'd be seeing each other again soon!” The bubbly voice nearly made Reman jump out of his skin, Pinkie Pie had gotten the drop on him. “Now, we can start planning your Sorry-About-Freaking-Out-And-Trying-To-Hurt-You-Party!”
“How did you sneak up on me?” In truth, the Imperial had given up all hope of understanding this world. Every time he came close to figuring things out, the universe threw a wooden beam into the works.
“Well duh , I was behind you, silly.” How was that a decent answer? It seemed that regardless of where he went, the Imperial couldn't evade people like this.
“Why is this party business so important, anyway?” He felt a pang of dread fill his heart, by the Nine, what had he done? His fears were realized by Pinkie's response.
“WHAT?! Of course it's important! With the decorations and the guests and the streamers and the cakes and music and the dancing and the sarsaparilla and the...” Reman just started to tune her out. He briefly wondered how he could manipulate this situation.
“Pinkie, I have an idea.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Summer Glade stretched as she woke, languidly extending and flexing her limbs. The lycan mare yawned loudly and rolled out of bed. She noticed her pack-mate was gone, but figured he was doing just fine. The Pegasus trotted into the main room of the library, and noticed Twilight had left a note for the two werewolves.
Gone to Sugarcube Corner. Reman, I have taken the liberty of retrieving some books you may be interested in. Glade, I need you to make your way here, it's important.
Twilight Sparkle
What could the Element of Magic need with her? Perhaps it was related to the quest, that would mean she'd finished securing the medicinal supplies they'd need. Without a second thought, she exited the library.
The streets were lively, nopony was hiding or showing fear. This was a refreshing change from yesterday's little incidents, Reman would have certainly gotten a kick out of this. As Glade walked, she wondered where the Imperial had gone, perhaps he was at the bakery, or Sweet Apple Acres. But for all she knew, he could have been taken to Canterlot by chariot, speaking with the Princesses. That was what struck Glade as odd, she could never figure out the Imperial's motivation for doing anything.
The mare waved to a Unicorn selling pears, just to be friendly, and returned to her pondering. Reman was likely preparing for their expedition, he didn't seem the type to laze about when he could work. Maybe they could start early, shave a few days off, they do need to hurry. Their armor situation has been handled, as well as their cartographic needs. So what did that leave? Glade almost slapped herself at the obvious realization: rations and camping supplies.
She didn't slap herself, of course, that would reflect poorly on her, and the Royal Guard as a whole. Then again, Glade did not look like a guard, with her coat's color showing through, and roots in her mane and tail, she looked more like a painter's pallet had been dumped on her. Glade almost giggled at the thought, oh boy, if her father could see her now. The old guy was in Canterlot working a desk job under General Skies. Had he been informed of this? It was unlikely, but still a possible, after all, he'd been close to the Princess in the early portion of his career.
That led Glade to wonder about Reman's family. Rose had mentioned a history, and she'd been shown that old portrait, but hadn't been given anything solid. The Imperial had never mentioned family, maybe he was an orphan, and Rose was looking after him, some favor the so-called immortal pony owed one of his ancestors. Glade wished the mystery mare had taught her about Reman, and not his culture, she'd gladly risk offending him if it meant actually understanding him. The lycan mare had only seen a small portion of his exploits, courtesy of Rose, by seeing into his dreams.
So much snow, on that ship, she'd practically felt the biting wind. Glade and Rose had floated above the deck as they watched the Imperial. They'd heard his thoughts, knew what would happen, and they could do nothing but observe. The mare wondered if those men , the word felt odd to her, had families, if they had people waiting for them at home. There was that sick smile, the bloodthirsty grin of a killer, of Reman's. He knew he was about to transform, that he was going to kill all of them, yet he hadn't cared. The Imperial seemed to enjoy that knowledge. Glade shuddered and tried to clear her mind.
In her deep thought, the mare hadn't realized that she was already outside Sugarcube Corner. How long had she been standing there? This was embarrassing, to say the least. The sign said open , so Glade helped herself inside.
“SURPRISE!!!” That was all she heard, just Pinkie Pie and a gathered crowd of townsponies, throwing her a surprise party. Shouldn't Reman have also been here?
Her unspoken question was answered with a pie in the face.
I'm updating early to commemorate the Season Two Finale.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
Zenammu's existence could hardly be better. In his three centuries of life, Lord Hircine had chosen him twice to be an instrument of his will. A native Ashlander, Zenammu had felt obligated to obey the Lord of the Hunt, for who provided his clan's game? Hircine called, and he answered.
His first task was to be a carrier, a vessel, for a new strain of lycanthropy. He had performed so well, spreading its glory across Tamriel. For eighty years, he hunted those that bent their knee to the Imperial menace, even his own kinsmen when it was necessary. A bonus was given, an optional addition to his great crusade, with a reward fit for a king. It was simple: enter County Kvatch and cause havoc, while paying close attention to Gray Gold Mine and the houses nearby.
It was there he met the Pup.
That was his target, Hircine whispered confirmation into his ear. So Zenammu waited, and waited, using his skills to stay hidden from those in the main house. The Pup had family in the Legion, the young Imperial was even courting a battlemage's daughter. Figures, Imperial scum with Breton trash, a match made for the temples. Of course, with this revelation, came a plan.
Zenammu would attack the family of the Pup's bitch. The fight was not easy, but he managed to kill the mage. The Pup arrived right on schedule, bitch in tow, and had engaged as expected. One bite, and Zenammu could leave and lick his wounds. It essentially simple, just infect and run.
The best laid plans of mice and men, as they say. He had accomplished his mission, at the cost of his own life, death was delivered via letter opener. Hircine gave him a hero's welcome for his accomplishment. For four years, the Ashlander had hunted by his master's side, eager to continue to please.
Then he had received this wonderful news. Zenammu was given a second chance at life, all he had to do was kill the Pup. Lord Hircine had twisted and hollowed the body of a Dremora to create his soul's vessel, and warped it to fit his old appearance. The shell was easy to use, and hardly cumbersome, but just didn't move like his old one. He looked like a Dunmer, walked like a Dunmer, sounded like a Dunmer, but he didn't feel like a Dunmer, like something was deeply wrong with him. The Ashlander pushed the thoughts from his mind, his temporary shell must not have been meant to contain the glory that was Zenammu reborn.
Even this body had not prevented him form performing his task. Stealth was still second nature to him, and stalking the Pup was easy enough. But could he be called Pup anymore? No, now the Pup was a Hound, with the hunting instincts to prove it. The Hound had known Zenammu was tracking him, but the pink horse had taken the fall. Or so he had thought.
The Hound and his new bitch were looking in his direction. They knew , and it was only a matter of time before they came for him. Zenammu needed to complete his mission, no more waiting, no more watching, he needed to act now . the Ashlander's vision pulsed, and power flooded his veins. This body's transformation was instantaneous, and he remained in full control.
One of his claws undid the window latch, and he climbed through the opening.
He received numerous, burning cuts across his back as he went.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@
Reman had given Glade the Ring as a precaution, in the event she needed to transform. Her immediate response had been to do just that. When was the last time he'd fought side by side with a fellow lycan? That must have been when he'd first entered Skyrim, just over a year ago. Then and now, the Imperial could see why most people were scared by the very thought of lycans. The transformation itself is enough to inspire fear. With the two of them, there was little chance of defeat, if any, and they knew it, Reman stayed completely level headed.
But when he saw the werewolf that climbed in through the window, his blood boiled.
Hulking, black, and scarred beyond belief, it was familiar to the Imperial. One never forgets the lycan that infected them. Those slash scars over its left eye, a heart-shaped one on its right leg, and a stab wound in its ribs. Reman had been the one who added that, and hopefully, he'd give it a few more. Maybe this time, just maybe, the universe would be kind enough to make it stay dead.
Glade had taken the initiative, attacking the lycan's back. It seemed her claws affected all werewolves in the same manner, because the beast howled in displeasure. Reman followed the mare's initial assault with a roundhouse kick to the face. Negotiation was never the Imperial's strength. The black werewolf was seemingly unimpressed by his strike, that was never a good sign.
The beast backhanded the Imperial, who was sent flying into one of many dessert covered tables. It was stronger this time, much stronger. But Reman had grown up, he was a noble's child no longer, he was a warrior proper. Nothing of Aetherius or Oblivion would stop him from truly ending his forebear's life. Another smack brought an end to those thoughts, his entire brain halted, really, because spots appeared in his vision.
A piercing, shrieking roar brought the Imperial back to reality. Glade had taken that as an almost personal insult, her forebear wasn't allowed to be weaker than any other lycan. She launched herself at the black werewolf, and a mirror-like performance of her first transformation played out before the Imperial's eyes. The changed mare slashed and gored as though her life depended on it, as though her alpha's life depended on it. Glade was built for speed, not strength, and that glaring difference between the two transformed beings was brought to true light.
A slash from the beast caught Glade just under her ribs. Had that blow landed on a normal man or pony, their organs would be littering the floor, but to a lycan, it did damage equivalent to brambles cutting the skin. The force sent Glade to the ground, she would be up in a few moments, but Reman entered battle in her place.
An open-palmed strike to the snout, an uppercut to the throat, all quick, meant more to distract and cause pain than truly injure the victim. The beast had the advantage of muscle mass and strength, but the Imperial had the speed advantage. All that bulk slowed it down, and Reman's lean body was much more aerodynamic. He dodged attacks left and right, some close calls, a grazing hit or two, but no true connection. That was, until he was caught by kick to the chest, once again, he went into a table. This one, however, was covered in eating utensils, silverware.
Unfortunately, it was all pewter, nothing to use against lycans. A shame, really, that cake cutter looked pretty sharp. That train of thought was also cut off, the beast charged the downed Imperial. A brown blur slammed into the black werewolf's side, and it went tumbling to the ground. Glade had used her body as a battering ram. Reman was tired of being dead weight in this fight, he needed to do something, anything, to help.
“Glade, cover me!” A trick, and the mare knew it, but their opponent did not. Believing Reman would be an easy target, it rushed the Imperial, who was still sprawled on the floor. There was no chance it could predict what would happen next, no way of knowing the Imperial had more than a handful of tricks up his metaphorical sleeves.
In a fraction of a second, Reman extended his hand, and a bolt of electricity arced from his partially opened palm. The lightning hit the beast squarely between the eyes. The Imperial was no healer, but he knew what happened when one runs electricity through the brain. The black werewolf experienced a number of muscle tremors and small seizures, all within a fraction of a second, a single moment.
“That was for Gaston Jemane!” It was no true vengeance, but it was a start, a tribute to a wonderful man, taken before his time.
“B-bastard H-hound.” The beast spoke, stuttering from the residual effects of the blast. That was a neat trick for an animal, Reman never mastered talking while transformed, but he knew that some were capable of it. “Never would l-learn your p-place.”
“And what do you know of me?” Reman still had another bolt charged, and Glade was on the alert.
“I know t-t-that you and the B-breton bitch, L-lyne-” The beast had no chance to finish, and would not.
“NEVER say her name like you knew her!” Reman fired his magical blast into the beast chest. The Imperial's response struck Glade as odd, but she was unable to voice her concerns. Perhaps whoever the beast was referring to was Reman's former lover, but the man's reaction was above and beyond what Glade expected of him. The attachment must have deeper than the bond between two individuals that had casual sex, they must have been in love, or at least Reman was.
While Glade would have thought the idea was funny, seeing how her comrade, her friend , felt about the loss of his... whatever the relationship was, affected her deeply. She knew Reman was harden over the years, but Glade saw pain in those eyes.
“W-weakness, emotional attachment to th-the bitch would o-only b-bring you dow-own.” Reman gave a hard kick to the injured lycan, fury burning like the heart of the sun. “K-keep harming m-me, it will d-do n-nothing tho ch-ch-change the outcome.” Its form started to change, fade, leaving only an old Dunmer in its wake.
“What in Oblivion are you?” That was not a transformation Reman was familiar with, and he knew almost every strain of lycanthropy that produced wolves. This elf had something different... right? Or maybe, just maybe, Hircine had sent him, given recent events, that seemed not only possible, but probable. It made sense that the Huntsman could alter lycanthropy and its effects to suit his needs, but did binding the dead allow room for change?
“The ultimate understanding of our Master's will.” The stutter was gone, the lycan regeneration factor must have kicked in all ready. The slight brain damage would be completely healed in a few minutes, which gave Reman plenty of time to extract information.
And his revenge.
Reman never enjoyed torture, he'd learned to empathize with those who had suffered the abuse, his time in Valenwood had shown him how painful it could be. It had also shown him how effective it could be. Sparks was the most commonly used spell for information extraction, low damage, high pain output, low Magicka cost for those experienced in Destruction. Reman clenched a fist, and electricity crackled around it.
“Why were you sent after me?”
“I'll never tell you, Hound.” He really shouldn't have said that, not after he'd riled the Imperial's temper so much. Reman brought the fist down, a left hook to the cheek, a painful jolt ran through the captive Dunmer's body.
“Talk!” He brought it down again and again, each time upping the voltage just a hair. The Ashlander howled in pain at every blow, tears even welled in his eyes. Pathetic.
“Lord H-h-h-hircine s-sent me to ass-assimilate you into the p-pack.” What? WHAT!? Hircine had been the cause of the incident that ruined Reman's life! Gaston, Isabella, Hircine had ruined everything they had planned, the life they had worked so hard to achieve. The battlemage had been like an uncle to the Imperial, he'd taught him so much, many things his father couldn't. Reman had always heard of seeing red but he'd never experienced it before. He never been so angry , so enraged, so violent, never when in his true form, at any rate.
He didn't see the Dunmer's attack, didn't need to, he caught it all the same. Reman looked him in the eyes.
“What is your name?” His voice was even, flat, an eerie compliment to his blank face. But his eyes, by the Huntsman's Spear, those eyes! They could cut steel, and chilled the Ashlander to his very core.
“Z-zenammu.” The stutter was not from his injuries, but his body's reaction to the man before him.
“Well, Zenammu, I don't like your attitude.” What did he mean by that? He didn't like his attitude, he didn't have an attitude, he was being submissive to a stronger lycan. “I think I should fix that.” Reman grabbed the elf by his throat, lifting the old Dunmer almost effortlessly. “You should grow a pair!” With a single motion, he threw Zenammu across the room, and he impacted on the wall, denting the wooden boards that lined the interior.
“Reman! He's down, that's enough!” Glade must have transformed during the Imperial's torture session.
“Worried he's digging himself a deeper grave?” Zenammu almost sounded like he was laughing as he rose from the floor. The Ashlander wiped some blood from his mouth, grinning. He extended a fist, held sideways, and a purplish blue aura enclosed it. When the elf opened his hand, the glow materialized into a handle, with the remainder forming into a blade and and guard. The Dunmer had summoned a sword!
Zenammu ran to engage the Imperial, who easily met the challenge. When the elf brought his blade in a sideways arch, only to be blocked by Reman's own bound sword.
“When did you... ?” Of course the Dunmer was confused, sleight of hand made the Imperial's summoning magic into a difficult phantom to follow. He was never answered, Reman merely brought his hand up to head level, and fired another bolt of lightning into Zenammu's face. He flinched back from the pain and involuntary muscle tremor, the Imperial took this opportunity to slash at his foe. The blade's serrated edge sliced though meat and skin without effort, only being stopped by the elf's ribs.
With another kick, Zenammu was on the ground once more. None of the lycans gathered knew that this would be the last time he would hit the floor because of Reman. No one could know.
“You attack the family of my fiance.” Reman punctuated with another slash. Glade now knew why he had been so angry, this disease had taken him from his bride-to-be. “You kill the man I consider my uncle.” Another slash, and the Imperial dispelled the sword, its form dissolved into a fine mist. “You infect me, turn me into a monster.” Reman placed his fingers between some exposed ribs, and lifted. Glade had never seen anything so horrifying and awe inspiring, the Imperial exuded an aura of complete control over his opponent.
Reman raised his hand, and place it on Zenammu's head. “You tear me from the woman I love.” Glade didn't know if he suffered when the Imperial killed him, she would likely never find out, but the lightning arcing from his broken, beaten, bloody body certainly made her feel uneasy. “May your Master have mercy, for you received none from me.”
Reman turned to face his friend, who just looked a strange mixture of awe and disgust. What amount of each was directed at the Imperial, only the Divines could know.
“You look tired.” Glade was trying to be a pillar for her forebear, a courtesy she knew he would extend to her if need be. It was true, Reman looked exhausted, both physically and mentally, by the day's events.
“I'm more worried about paying for the damage we caused to the building.” Of course, he would make a joke right now. The two shared a quiet laugh, bonds forged in fire are the strongest, as they say. “I guess you have a lot of questions, don't you?”
“I'll respect your right to privacy.” Her answer seemed to relieve the man, whose shoulders seemed to deflate as the day's tension left them. Glade's old drill sergeant would have said he looked like shit, and that would have been an honest statement. “You look like you could use a drink.”
“Only if you're buying.” He chuckled at her joke, but knew she was probably right. Two black eyes, a split lip, at least one broken tooth, fractures up and down his left arm, and his right radius was shattered. He diagnosed the injuries by how they felt, which was easy, after every injury he had received over the years, all pain was relative to the man. Reman coughed up some blood, he added a slightly damaged lung.
“We should get you to a hospital, come on.” Glade was ready to leave this carnage behind, the least she could do was leave a note. Of course, the man complied with her demands, and started to hobble off behind her.
It was only too late that either of them noticed a rustling from where Zenammu's corpse lay. Too late to react, to prevent what would happen. The supposedly dead elf rose to his feet, and the two lycans were oblivious to him. If they'd payed attention, even given the slightest care to what they thought was a corpse, what, in all seriousness, should have been a dead body. But they didn't, and they payed the price of negligence.
Reman never felt the tiny dagger that pierced his chest, slipped so easily between his ribs. On his way down, he heard Glade truly end the elf's life. He took solace in that fact, even as his vision started to fade. His brain was working in overdrive to make his final moments pleasant, it blocked all pain from his mind.
He saw Glade frantically called for help, pleading for Reman to keep his eyes open, to stay with her.
He thought of Twilight, an intellectual who had offered assistance.
Fluttershy, who had been so timid, he hoped she would gain some courage, she could use it.
Rarity, who had designed his armor, fascinated by his strange body shape, he wonder how she would feel about designing his funeral clothes
Rainbow Dash, a loyal hothead, the kind of friend anyone would be proud to have.
Applejack, her background was similar to his own, he felt a type of kinship with her.
Pinkie, he'd gotten him to come out of his shell, a miracle by his own standards.
Princess Celestia, the kind monarch, every ruler paled in comparison to her, even his own Emperor.
Luna, given time, she could have become an adoptive little sister to him, time he sadly didn't have.
At last, his thoughts came to the mare trying to keep him awake. Summer Glade, he'd failed her, he infected her, promised to cure her, and now he lay dieing before her. This made the second promise he could not keep. For the first time in years, Reman cried, tears spilled down his face.
He reached out and touched Glade's cheek, a comforting gesture. He felt the vibrations of other ponies arriving, magic picked him up. He was likely being carried to a hospital. He knew he'd be in the morgue soon enough.
Just before his eyes closed, Reman felt County Kvatch's warm, summer breeze.
Golden Gates of Aetherius
If only because I'm ahead on my schedule, here is Sunday's chapter, there will still be an update this weekend, I just found a lot of free time.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
The sun was warm on his skin. Everything felt right with the world, for the first time in four years, Reman knew peace. The feeling was bittersweet, on one hand, he would never have to fight again. On the other... He didn't want to think of his failure. The man had only broken two promises in his life, one to Gaston, one to himself. He'd silently vowed to cure Glade, even if it meant he would suffer the affliction for years more.
If he was seeing this golden, beautiful plain stretching before him, then he had failed. His death meant true defeat. Reman would be denied this brief rest soon enough, and he knew it, Hircine would come for his soul, and bind it to his infernal Hunting Grounds. It was bitter poetry that the Imperial would wallow in his failure before the Huntsman claimed him. That dark humor was worsened by this place's resemblance to Kvatch in the late summer, a terrible reminder of his past shortcomings.
He allowed himself a brief moment to recollect on the joys he had felt in life. His first kiss, the first time he'd cast a spell or held a sword, his first fistfight, his first victory in a fistfight. Throughout his childhood, friends and family had surrounded him, and provided a barrier for life's tragedy. A sigh overtook the man, causing his form to slightly collapse.
Eyes on the prey, not the horizon.
The words echoed in his head. They'd been repeated by so many lycans, by so many men and women, that he'd met throughout his travels. He never truly understood what they meant. Originally, he had thought they were a mantra to avoid fear of the inevitable indentured servitude in the Hunting Grounds. But now, now he saw them in a new light. The phrase did not mean for one to turn a blind eye to the future, but rather to enjoy one's limited time on Nirn. He'd been a fool to squander his time chasing useless dreams, only now did he see that.
“Better to spend one's life chasing dreams, then to squander them in complacency.” That voice, so familiar, Reman almost believed it was a trick of the Huntsman. But, when he faced the speaker, his eyes beheld only the truth. For there, in full Imperial Legion Battlemage dress, stood Gaston Jemane, looking exactly like he did in life. “I'm glad to see you again, Reman.”
“And you, as well, Gaston.” The Imperial nearly stumbled over his words. He immediately lowered his head, he considered himself unworthy to look his adoptive uncle in the eye. Shame permeated his form as he did, but he could not face the man, his honor would not let him.
“Raise your head, boy.” The Breton's words were stern, but not harsh, the mark of a good father. That was, indeed, what he had been in life. “I'm only allowed a brief moment to speak to you, and I won't spend it talking to a ingrate.”
“What?” Reman looked the other man in the face, confused by what he meant. Surely they were in Aetherius, why else would Gaston be here? Purgatory was no place for a man such a he, and Reman had performed enough heroic deeds in his own life to warrant immediate entry into paradise.
“Talos will only let us speak briefly. After that, I’ll be replaced by someone else.” Talos himself had sanctioned this meeting? The greatest Emperor to ever exist, Talos of Old Atmora, Tiber Septim, the hero-god of mankind. “I only have a few things to say, so listen up.” Reman stood with perfect posture, a gesture of respect he rarely gave anyone.
“You never failed me, Reman, despite what you may like to think.” The Imperial felt the Breton's hand on his shoulder, he hadn't noticed the battlemage cross the distance between them. “I know, you promised to watch over Lynette and Isabella if something happened to me, and to protect my daughter from the dangers of Nirn.” A pang of cold guilt ran through the younger man and his friend spoke. “My condition for you to marry her, if you remember.” Despite himself, Reman cracked a smile.
“But, I-”
“Don't interrupt. Didn't your father and I teach you better than that?” The Imperial cheeks ran red as he was scolded, he was too old for that. “You've done things that make your ancestor, Joan, would have been impressed by.” Reman's chest swelled with pride, he never cared for the opinions of others, but Gaston was one of the few exceptions. “You were the first in your family to see Black Marsh, to climb the Throat of the World's Seven Thousand Steps. You destroyed a fort full of Thalmor, something my own father failed to do, you've made your mark on the world.” The Breton's words were full of praise, the pride of seeing a loved one accomplish great things. “Never forget that, where most men would have given up, you held fast.”
“Thank you, Gaston, you do me too much honor.” Reman bowed his head, in respect this time.
“I'm not the one who deserves thanks.” The hand on his shoulder squeezed, firmly but gently, and the Breton man continued. “You know, Lynette cried for a month after you disappeared.” What? Gaston wouldn't have known that, he died the night of the attack, Reman had seen his corpse. “Don't look so surprised, I stuck around for a good bit after I... well, died.” The man shrugged and laughed, odd, given the contents of his words. “She had a feeling that you had been infected that night, and joined the Silver Hand in an attempt to find you. No, no! Don't get the wrong idea, she was trying to find you, she wanted to bring you back home.”
That... that took Reman by surprise. Lynette wanted him to come home? Did that extend to their last meeting? He couldn't have made a good impression on her, not after that display.
“Are you sure?” The Imperial had to know.
“Reman, she loved you, she still does.” Devotion like that was rare, even rarer than one would think, it seemed. “When she saw you, at that Silver Hand camp, she didn't want to believe it was you, but when you spared her, she had no doubts.” Of course, mercy wasn't commonplace on Nirn. “She still wears that locket you bought for her birthday, the one with the portraits of you two in it." Right, Reman remembered the necklace, and how expensive it had been. the area where he would have kept his sack of coins started to burn. “She cried after you ran off, you know.”
“I regret not staying.”
“You shouldn't, anyone would have fled in your position.” The hand left his shoulder, its absence was immediately felt. “Just promise me that you'll make things right when you return.” Reman nodded instantly, he didn't need to think in order to make that decision. “My time is nearly up, it was good seeing you again, Reman T..., wait, you don't use your family name anymore, do you?”
“No, sir, I haven't in four years.” He wouldn't use it again, until he was cured.
“Well then, Reman of Cyrodiil, I hope that when we next meet, it will be as warriors in Aetherius proper.” With each word, Gaston Jemane's image faded, leaving nothing but the air in his wake.
It seemed like hours before the next sign of life. Even then, it was distant, but certain. The steady rhythm of a horse's hooves in full gallop, then a white dot appeared on the horizon. Given its speed, Reman briefly entertained the thought that Princess Celestia was here to free him from the afterlife. As the steed approached, it was made evident that it was mounted, and the Imperial was certain Celestia would never allow someone to ride on her back. The white stallion came to a halt about twelve feet from the man on foot, and Reman got a good look at who was riding. It wasn't a rider, there were two, a man and woman.
The man was wearing steel armor, with a white tunic over the breastplate, a red diamond was emblazoned on the fabric. He recognized the armor instantly, for he'd seen it in paintings during his childhood: Pelinel Whitestrake, the Divine Crusader himself. That would mean that the woman was Joan the Champion. Together, the pair made the most lethal married couple in Cyrodiilic history.
“So, this is where my family line has gone? Seems about right.” The voice from inside the helmet was joking, at ease with his surroundings.
“Watch what you say, Aurelius, he's my descendant, too.” So that was how they had behaved in life. It was amazing that history books left this sort of thing out, but, what can one do? “I guess you already know, but I'm Joan and this ugly mug is Aurelius, but everyone calls him Pelinel.” The armored figure bowed as his wife introduced him.
“Forgive me if I'm a bit taken back, I’ve had a rough day.” The other two Imperials started laughing, a bit more than they should have.
“Kid, we had a tough everything , I had to fight Umaril the Unfeathered, and Joan had to stop the Oblivion Crisis.” Said woman slapped the armored man's pauldron, clearly not amused by his words. “Sorry, but I'm just speaking the truth.”
“But Mister Stabby-Stabby over here means is: things are gonna get better, just wait.” Joan winked and gave a thumbs up “Now get out there and be somebody!” She spoke as though something was supposed to happen then, but nothing did.
“I don't think the Nine want him to go just yet, love.” Aurelius, or Pelinel, had removed his helmet, and Reman could see why he'd been recorded as one of the most eligible bachelors of the Empire. His face was one to behold, a classic representation of Imperial good looks: brown hair and sharp eyes.
“I never thought you'd look like this.” Reman accidentally thought aloud, and he immediately covered his mouth.
“You should have seen me when I was a vampire.” Pelinel laughed that out, seemingly finding the prospect of undeath humorous.
“To this day, I regret not staking you when we first met.” Reman was now certain that this is where all the jokes about married couples came from.
“Relax, kid, you'll be back with your pony friends soon enough.” Pelinel was still laughing.
“The whole pony thing isn't strange to you two?” Reman cocked his head as he asked his question. In his defense, it made sense to ask that.
In response, the other two Imperials laughed even harder, and Joan nearly doubled over.
Whatever poison had been coating that dagger was ravaging his system. It had been from the moment of injury. The vile toxin weakened his heart and turned his bones brittle, the lightest touch would cause them to fracture. They learned of that effect during surgery, in an attempt to close the hole in his carotid. Medical Unicorns had erected a forcefield to support the weakened ribs. Reman had gone into cardiac arrest a number of times, but was swiftly revived after each incident.
The repeated heart attacks weren't the worst part, because after the next bit of news was delivered, everypony around cried. Brains scans had shown that the Imperial was dead from the neck up, the only activity the doctors had found was... distressing. There were random flickers here and there, but without knowledge of the how his brain worked, nopony could know what they meant. Regardless of that, he wasn't expected to ever awaken.
For three days, three agonizing days, Reman had been laying in a hospital bed. For that time, Summer Glade had not left his side. Visitors came to see the injured lycan, though their behavior was similar to a mourner's. The Elements of Harmony were the first to arrive, they spoke some kind words and wished the Imperial the very best. Not that he had heard them.
The next visitors, those little fillies they'd saved on their way to Ponyville, the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Scootaloo had brought a card, something about being too awesome to spend time in a hospital, Glade thought it was cute. Sweetie Belle's gift was a bit more practical: a scarf, with tiny pictures of the CMC stitched onto it. Applebloom, now her get-well-soon had been the best, if only in usefulness. A healing tonic, made by the filly herself, it was a basic cure for almost any venom, but would be completely ineffective against the poison in Reman's veins.
The Princesses were the next to arrive, which was incredibly surprising to the mare. Luna had been particularly devastated, she must have developed an attachment to the man. As one would expect, Celestia attempted her very best to remain maternal and formal. Any observer could hear the sadness in her voice, it was obvious that she never expected her next meeting with the lycan would be in a hospital. Most certainly, she would have been unable to imagine Reman in this position, if anything, she had anticipated somepony he had an altercation with to be bedridden.
The royal sisters visited at least twice a day, never staying for longer than one hour, never less than forty-five minutes. Their sentiment was to be commended, the Imperial wasn't even under their rule, and yet here they were, waiting for him to open his eyes like the would for anypony else in his position.
The doctors found Reman to be an ideal patient, never complained and his problem was easily treated, if incredibly stubborn. Their magic cleared the poison from his blood without pause, almost too quickly. The effects were treatable, although slowly improving, his bone density was hovering around an estimated forty percent. That number was estimated because they had no way of knowing how dense his bones were before the weakening effects of the toxin took their toll. In even greater news, Reman's neural pathways were improving rapidly, which may lead to increased brain activity. Glade wasn't a doctor, but she knew how wonderful the insight was.
The opinions of the doctors could not be a starker contrast to those of the nursing staff. Those grievances, however, were not the Imperial's fault, rather, the lycanthropic mare was the source. While Glade understood they meant no harm, on an instinctive level, she was forced into a state of territorial aggression. There were rumors that she even snapped at Nurse Tendercare, and that was not in the verbal sense of the word. She hadn't, of course, but the gossipers of Ponyville's Intensive Care Unit would have nothing to do with those that spoke against what they considered interesting. Despite the rumor being false, Glade couldn't help but want to prove them right, show them what a real wolf could to a lamb that got too close.
At the moment, visiting hours had long ended, but nopony on the hospital's payroll had the nerve to attempt to remove the mare form her pack-mate's room. Celestia had tried to coax her out with the promise of food, and partially succeeded, which meant Glade just ran out, snatched the food and water, and bolted back inside her friend's temporary dwelling. The mare told herself it was temporary, anyway. For each of the three days and nights, Glade had attempted to stay awake, if only to avoid seeing Rose, she just couldn't take the mystery mare right now.
Needless to say, she was victorious in her battle, though not of her own efforts. Unbeknownst to Glade, Rose understood her situation, if only because she was furious with Hircine about it. If any of Glade's friends were to see her, they wouldn't be able to recognize the mare. Her eyes were puffy and bloodshot, the fur under them was matted, she looked underfed, her body's metabolism had burned through her reserves and was cannibalizing on her fat, however little there may be. It was odd to see somepony literally worry herself sick, she would have found her situation to be humorous, were she in any condition to be laughing.
With a plaintive whine, Summer Glade gave into her body's urge to rest. She closed her eyes and was asleep almost immediately.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
“What were you thinking?!” Tempting the wrath of Azura was never a good idea, as the Huntsman was learning firsthand. “Have you gone mad?!” Her voice carried like the shout of an angry god, which was the current case. “Do you have any idea how this might affect him?!” With each new sentence, the Father of Manbeasts flinched, frightened on some deep, hidden level of his being.
“I thought you wanted me to give him a test.” In truth, it had been her idea to send a lycan's spirit to measure Reman's mettle.
“I didn't mean kill him!” Perhaps Hircine had gone a tidbit too far in his game. Azura had chosen the young Imperial's family for greatness, each generation had at least one member who grew to fame. Killing off a member of Azura's favorite clan could have a negative effect on the Daedra's mood.
“He's not dead, he's just... sleeping.” Even Hircine had to admit that his voice was slightly weaker than it usually was. Azura was more powerful than him, and the Huntsman had to show at least an infinitesimal amount of respect for his elder Prince.
“A coma is not sleep, you're lucky the dagger didn't hit him square in the heart!” Sending his most fanatical devotee to the realm of ponies had been an error on his end. Zenammu would do anything to please his master, even kill the Huntsman's Champion. Despite augmenting Reman's strain of lycanthropy to meet his needs, a blow directly to the heart would have meant instant death. The Imperial would pull through, but Hircine could feel his soul ready to be claimed from Aetherius' gateway realm.
“Could you relax? Reman needs only for his body to repair itself before he returns to the waking world.” Both Princes were well aware of this fact, but Azura had felt the need to air her concerns. Not that there as any need, Hircine knew she wouldn't approve of his methods, and really couldn't care. This was the only truly extreme measure he'd taken through this little affair, and likely the only, because the Huntsman knew Reman would bounce back stronger than before. The little Imperial was funny like that, and there would be no small amount of anger directed at the Huntsman. That, combined with the lycan's knowledge of Conjuration and binding rituals could prove annoying in the future.
“And how long will the wait be?” Azura could be very impatient, very passionate about those she cared for. This could not end well for the Father of Manbeasts, not well at all.
“I give it five minutes, Reman is stronger than I like to give him credit for.”
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Pain. Searing pain, as though someone had poured molten steel through his veins. That was all Reman felt, but no scream left his throat, no signal of distress would sound. Every being, regardless of species or origin, entered the would blind, deaf, and defenseless. It seemed the rule held true for the soul returning to the body. There was a pressure in his chest, a magical energy swelled from it, Reman's best guess was a barrier spell of some sort. Considering how the ponies were seemingly unable to commit horrendous acts, to his knowledge, it was likely holding up his ribs.
The Imperial's mind immediately turned to the book: The Physicalities of Werewolves. Wolfsbane, when applied to the bones of a transformed lycan, turned them brittle enough to collapse under their own weight. Was that what was happening to him? It seemed very likely, the pain made it fairly obvious.
Reman opened his eyes, the room he was in was very dark. Perhaps it was just his newly activated eyesight that made everything seem darker than it truly was. His ears picked a faint sound, a whimper, in a feminine tone. His neck resisted the turn, but the Imperial managed to make it. Sitting next to him was Summer Glade, sleeping uneasily, she tossed and turned every few seconds, and whined or whimpered in a loose rhythm. Poor thing, she must have worried about him.
He'd let her get her sleep, right now he just wanted to find Hircine, and do his damnedest to strangle him with his own intestines.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
Not my best Daedric interaction, but I was half-asleep when I wrote it.
Glade found herself staring into Zenammu's grinning face. He'd just stabbed Reman, and believed victory was upon him. Just as in every dream, Glade snapped his neck and crushed his skull beneath her hooves. Still, the bastard kept grinning, that disturbing show of satisfaction, as though he had achieved some form of greatness. Even though the elf, she remembered the term from Rose's lessons, had long ago died, Glade still heard his laughter in her dreams. Waking up solved that problem nicely.
She only wished the waking world worked in such a manner.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
Reman supposed his situation wasn't entirely unpleasant. He was warm, dry, and, for the moment, very much alive. Of course, he was also in unholy amounts of pain as his body's muscle regenerated compacted into its usual, lean shape. Something like this happened after every near-death experience, he'd be critically injured, black out, wake up in severe pain, be up and running in no time at all. Though, why his body adapted to his environment, he couldn't quite say, but he gave credit to his lycanthropy, Divines know it could have some strange effects.
Reman raised his hand, and while remaining quiet, began casting. The spell was simple, just something he did in his spare time, kept his skills sharp. A faint, purple glow enveloped his palm, it was spherical in shape, and seemed to swirl outward. Despite the colors, it wasn't Conjuration magic, it was actually of the Destruction School. It was a poisonous gas, similar in effect to the traps commonly found in Ayleid ruins. It was highly flammable, but only toxic if inhaled in large quantities and while in enclosed spaces. Otherwise, it just served as a mild irritant, but its nonlethal nature meant one could use it without much harm being done to them.
Seeing nothing else to do, Reman threw the gaseous ball, which bounced off the opposite wall, the floor, and then into the Imperial's hand again. He repeated the silent process a number of times, alternating his catching hand with each cycle. The simple exercise did wonders for his hand-eye coordination, which the Imperial knew would need any boost he could get for it. The odd sequence continued for several minutes, before the gaseous sphere stopped short, and disappeared in a quiet poof. In an instant, the Imperial was robbed of his entertainment.
With a silent huff, and nothing else to do, Reman joined his companion in sleep.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
“Mortal, so good to see you again!” Rose sounded cheerful, almost suspiciously so. If she was keeping an eye on Reman, as she said, wouldn't she be worried? Then again, the mystery mare had pulled her from her nightmare to speak, to this wasn't all bad.
“Rose, I've had a long few days, what is it?” Even the lycan could hear the frustration in her own voice, that may offend the obviously powerful mare before her. Glade couldn't care less.
“I just came to offer my congratulations on the new development.” Rose was still smiling, as though she and Glade were good friends. The only new development the lycan mare could think of was joyous matter, it was her friend being stabbed from behind by a coward. If the mystery mare continued down this road, she'd have a very angry wolf to deal with, regardless of each mare's respective power.
“I am forced to ask, are you trying to piss me off?” The guardpony's blunt mannerisms caused Rose's eyes to widen. Though her response wasn't one of surprise, or fear, rather, it was the expression of one who had made a slight error in their speech. The mystery mare did not retract her statement, but it was clear that Rose hadn't meant Reman's hospitalization. Glade gave her a flat look before she continued with her next question. “Why, exactly, are you congratulating me?”
“Reman is going to wake up!” Rose smiled as the lycan's ears perked, it seemed she'd peeked her interest. Of course, that news wasn't what the disguised Daedra wanted to give, but this was hardly the moment. The Prince was merely trying to vent some of her excitement, and informing Glade of the Imperial's recovery was the only thing she could reveal without the lycan mare's reaction being too adverse.
“You better not be joking!” Glade laughed as she spoke, though there was a threat within those words. Rose picked up on it, and was aware of the lycan's ability to cause her harm. That is to say, Glade posed no threat, but she would do her very best to bring about Rose's death, which would be a tedious experience for all involved.
“I do not joke about the lives of those I watch over.” The disguised Daedra was still smiling with the best of them, but her words held no humor. In truth, she was slightly offended. Ever since the Oblivion Crisis, she had never been anything but sincere in her protection of Joan's family, and the Prince took her hobby very seriously.
“Nor do I.” By this point, Glade had ceased her merry facade, opting to glare at the mystery pony instead. Rose returned her steely gaze with equal ferocity. Neither mare enjoyed the other joking about Reman's health.
“It seems we have reached an impasse.”
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Guilt was a feeling Celestia was terribly familiar with. However, she wasn't quite sure of what she felt guilty about. It could have been any number of things, in the Princess' mind, she had made a large amount of poor decisions as of late. Was it Reman's injury? Glade's infection? Exposing the Elements to the two lycans? Perhaps is a combination of the causes, perhaps they had nothing to do with her feeling, Celestia was uncertain.
It was troubling to see the Imperial, who had seemed nearly invincible, barely clinging to his life. Another werewolf had arrived in Equestria, and had remained undetected. Perhaps those Daedra he had spoken of had a hand in the ordeal, Glade's story had supported that possibility. That was another thought that plagued the Alicorn's mind, if Reman's home was influenced by being so powerful that the very fabric of reality was warped by their mere presence, then there was little Celestia or the Elements could do to stand in a Prince's way, let alone sixteen .
If they had invasion on their minds, Equestria and the surrounding nations were doomed.
“Tia, what troubles you?” Luna spoke from nowhere, though in truth she had been seated next to the white Alicorn.
“Nothing, sister, just worried about Reman.” What she said was only partially true, but the Night Princess didn't pick up on it. Or at least she didn't show it.
“I'm certain he'll pull through, it seems he's been in worse situations before.” Luna tried to put on a smile, but only succeeded in making herself seem sadder than she truly was. The Lunar mare was worried sick over the Imperial, with good reason. Upon some deep probing, she had garnered that Reman's transformation was tied, in some odd way, to the phases of Nirn's moons. Every twenty-eight days, the man changed into his lycan form for the entire night, bypassing the half-hour time limit usually limiting the ability's usage. Luna used the term ability because opinions varied about how the affliction was perceived.
“I hope you're right.”
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Time was a strange thing, always perceived as moving forward, never back. Regardless of any philosophy one may hold, it seemed time was about to run out. For... had it been centuries all ready?, Talos had watched his Empire grow into a veritable utopia under his descendants' reign. The god-hero had seen every action, every battle, every aspect of life that made his glorious Empire beautiful. He had also seen the Dominion wage their insidious war, not only against the Third Empire, but the people under its banner.
Tiber Septim cared very little if he faded from existence, so long as the land he'd sworn to protect remained free of tyranny. Yet, here were Altmer, crossing from the Summerset Isles to destroy the way of life he'd fought so hard to establish. The Aldmeri Dominion rooted out Talos' worshipers, banning the mention of his name, but still the faithful prayed. The frail peace enacted by the White-Gold Concordant wasn't a treaty between two equally powerful nations, but merely the calm between storms. When they attacked next, the Empire would surely fall into ruin.
Yet the god had found a number of individuals who met the criteria of a hero, who could save the Empire. The Dovahkiin was among their number, obviously, but his allegiance was still undecided in the Civil War of Skyrim. No sense in guiding that one, he was under Akatosh's wing. That still left several dozen to work with, but revisions to the list had sliced it down to a handful.
Reman of Cyrodiil.
Renoir of High Rock.
Lynette Jemane.
General Marcus Tullius.
Thaik of Hammerfell.
Saliith of Black Marsh.
Those few comprised half of the list, but access to many of them was difficult. Lynette was busy with Silver Hand business, paperwork that was overdue, and she was under careful observation by the order's senior members after her close call. Renoir was looking for his friend, Reman, in Winterhold, curious about the Imperial's location. General Tullius was fighting a war, and heavily watched by his subordinates. Thaik was fighting the Dominion in guerrilla skirmishes across the Alik'r, his band was very perceptive, too much hassle. Saliith's clan was very superstitious of any change in its members, the shamans would attempt to purge any change made by the god, another crossed from his list.
But that left Reman. Under normal circumstances, he was the ideal Champion: patriotic, violently aggressive to his enemies, and incredibly powerful. The only real downside to him was his lycanthropy, but he sought the cure for it. Talos had observed him in the past, and seen much potential in the young Imperial. The hero-god saw something very few others would even bother looking for, a trait so rare that many doubted it even existed.
For when Reman looked at others, he saw much more than lesser men, he saw their potential.
Smiling to himself, the Ninth Divine began augmenting the all ready present magic in Reman's body. He'd be ready for his next trial, ready to claim his cure.
But most of all, ready to annihilate the Aldmeri Dominion.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Enjoy wondering what importance Talos' bit has.
Happy Mother's Day, Reman's Mom
When Reman awoke, he did not open his eyes. It was not that he was unable to, rather, he didn't want to burn his eyes on the lights above, he'd seen them last night. The Imperial estimated that is was either early morning, or very late in the afternoon based on the activity he heard around him, and none of it was in his room. Because Glade was still sleeping, he judged that by her breathing pattern, Reman guessed it was the former, the sun probably hadn't even risen yet.
Thinking all of that took less than a single second. The Imperial was feeling better than he had in years, despite having only received a few hours of sleep, he felt as though he'd actually gotten some rest. The very thought almost brought a tear to his eye, he was so close now, it wouldn't be much longer before he could walk amongst the fields of Kvatch, soon he would see his family once more. But Reman had a job to do, and daydreaming wouldn't make it a reality. He and Glade would leave as soon as possible, no sense in wasting time, they'd waited long enough as it is.
Even while he remained in bed, the Imperial could feel how much his strength had returned. The rush was amazing, he'd definitely gotten a power boost from his nap. Reman unconsciously flexed the muscles of his forearms, noticing how much stronger they seemed. A noise made him cease his actions, someone was coming, somepony , Reman corrected himself. Immediately, the sound of four pairs of hooves entered the room. Without opening his eyes, the Imperial would have to wait for one of them to speak before he could confirm who they belonged to. Wait, another pony came in, that made three newcomers, who were they?
“Look, Glade's sleeping.” That voice belonged to Luna. She came all the way from Canterlot to see him? The thought touched Reman's heart.
“Not anymore.” Glade groaned slightly, she must be stretching before she starts actually getting around. The female lycan jumped to the floor, hooves clacking against the stone, or at least what sounded as such. “I slept late, didn't I?”
“You aren't on a schedule, you are allowed to recuperate, these have been stressful times for us all.” Celestia's voice sounded just as sagely as it always had. Despite her best efforts, however, Reman could hear how tired she was, perhaps getting into an all-out deathmatch inside a bakery wasn't the best thing to present a monarch. “You certainly seem to have rested rather well, given circumstances.” Glade must have gotten the same boost Reman had, if she seemed better off now. “Has anything changed?”
“No, he hasn't moved a muscle.” The sorrow in the lycan's voice was evident, but the Imperial wasn't going to show his hand yet. If she was so torn up about her friend's injury, then Reman would give her a surprise, to make up for the pain he'd caused.
“We can't be too sure, though, he may have improved during the night, even if by some miniscule amount.” That voice was unfamiliar, even to Reman's amazing memory. This pony must have been a doctor here, wherever here was, that is. “I'll just begin scanning, now.”
With those words, the Imperial felt a strange sensation. It was magic, no doubt, but it held strange qualities to it. In a moment, Reman's entire body felt as though it had been submerged in a vat of fizzing water, with bubbles tingling over every inch of his skin. It was a strange mixture of Restoration and Illusion magic, by his best guess, but the combination's purpose was unknown. Then, just as quickly as it began, the sensation ceased, leaving the Imperial rather confused.
“Anything?” Luna's voice was small, as though she had lost hope. Reman's mind superimposed Arriana over the blue mare, and the girl whined over her sick brother, begging him to wake up. It took every ounce of self-control for the Imperial to resist rising and wrapping the Princess in a calming embrace, a brother's instinct to assure his younger sister's comfort. Old habits were hard to kill, even for someone so adept at killing.
“I heard something, like a dog barking in the distance, very faint.” The healer's news brought new life to the room. It seemed that any sort of improvement, however slight, was a relief to the ponies around Reman. Of course, at least one of them was worried for her friend's life, the life of her pack-mate, it made sense to feel some joy with the revelation. Feeling Glade's enthusiasm made the Imperial wonder if all forebears felt this close to their progeny, but quickly dismissed the thought. There was simply no way he and Zenammu would ever have gotten along.
“Luna, I believe that we'll be staying the entire day, perhaps I should get us all some breakfast?” Celestia was only asking Glade, Reman could tell, because both Princesses smelled like food.
“I could go for a bite.” That was the first time the Imperial had ever heard the lycan mare address the monarch informally. It was a refreshing change from the norm.
“Then, I'll be back in a few minutes.” Celestia quickly exited the room, leaving Luna, Glade, and Reman alone. Neither of the mares said anything for a few moments, both enjoyed the Imperial's calm, even breathing, a sign of his possible recovery. Subtle bursts of air gave away Glade's exact location, even the direction her head was facing, she had a nervous tic whenever she was excited: look to the left slightly and shift wings twice. If she looked to the right, they moved only once.
“I hope he wakes up soon.” Luna's voice came from the left, giving Reman her location as well. The Imperial hadn't spent as much time with her as he had with Glade, so if she could give away anything about her emotions, the man couldn't pick them up.
“You say that like I'm meant to be surprised.” Glade chuckled a little, good to see she still had some humor within herself. She was facing away from the Imperial, Reman decided to put his plan into action.
Within a fraction of a second, the lycan opened his eyes, faced Luna, and gave her silencing gesture. The Lunar Princess witnessed, and silently complied, and while she was excited, she held her facade of calm concern. She had no way of knowing what Reman had planned, but assumed it would be positive.
In the next moment, taking less time than before, the Imperial rose in the bed. Remaining completely silent, he extended his arms. While the lycan only did anything like this for a combat grapple, this action couldn't be farther from that. This movement was rarely employed by the warriors of Nirn, only used when absolutely necessary.
Reman of Cyrodiil grabbed Summer Glade from behind, and wrapped her in a hug. The mare must have assumed it was some form of attack, before she realized who it was. The Imperial rested his head on the mare's shoulder, and smiled.
“A little birdy told me you were worried about me?” The mare whirled around and buried her head in her friend's chest. She wrapped her forelegs around his torso, returning his embraced. The moment was tender, right up until Glade slapped Reman across the face.
“Don't scare me like that again!” She tightened her grip on him, as though she was afraid that he would vanish into thin air. To the Imperial's surprise, tears were streaming down her face, she must have cared for him deeply, more so than anyone could have anticipated. Reman held her closely, an attempt to console her, remedy her fears. The two lycans jumped slightly when Luna joined in on their little bonding moment, the blue Princess was welcomed with open arms.
After five minutes, the three broke apart. Each participant was smiling in his or her own way, one small, one wrapped in tears, and the final was cheeky beyond mortal understanding.
To everyone's surprise, Luna giggled.
“It's ironic, isn't it?” The blue mare held a hoof over her mouth as she spoke. Despite how obvious the humor was to her, Reman and Glade were left in the dark.
“I'm sorry, but you've lost me.” The Imperial wasn't uneducated, as the son of a powerful noble, he was taught by some of the finest tutors in Cyrodiil, but the concept of irony was lost on him.
“The only time combat has ever been in your favor is the time you almost die.” With that, the man joined her in laughing, much to Glade's dismay.
“How is that funny?” The lycan mare was dumbfounded at their behavior. How could somepony laugh at Reman's misfortune.
“Lighten up, Glade, it's all in good fun.” Despite his attempt at humor, the Imperial failed to bring a smile to the mare's face. The lycan leaned towards his pack-mate , cheeky smile plastered on, however, he failed to notice Glade's devious grin. Luna watched only in curiosity, fascinated by the odd behavior they exhibited. It was in the next instant that the Lunar Princess and the Imperial would receive a surprise.
Summer Glade pressed her lips to her forebear's.
Reman's Mom, You Have My Apologies
“Am I interrupting something?” Celestia's voice held a teasing tone, meant in good fun. Glade's cheeks flushed red, and she quickly backed away from her alpha.
“I-I can explain!” The lycanthropic mare held her forelegs up, a gesture of nervousness. This was not the sort of situation she wanted to be caught in, especially by Celestia , of all ponies! Glade was certain that Luna couldn't care less about it, but with the Solar Princess, a close friend of her father's and her employer, it was just too much.
“Luna, aren't there rules about members of the Royal Guard fraternizing with each other?” Celestia cast a look to her younger sister, whose face grew solemn.
“Indeed there are, I believe the punishment was summary execution, am I right?” The Lunar Princess looked depressed at the prospect, but understood that rules had to be followed. Glade was horrified at what she heard, was it true? It was then that Reman discovered the flaw in their little game.
“Good thing I'm not a guardsman, then.” The Imperial gazed smugly into Celestia's eyes. The monarch's expression fell, seemed she didn't enjoy her fun being ruined.
“Spoil sport.” The Solar Princess stuck her tongue out at the man, and blew a raspberry. The three conspirators enjoyed a round of laughter at Glade's expense, who was shaking slightly. It took the lycan mare a few moments to understand that it was all a joke, and a well executed one at that.
“Not funny!” Glade slugged Reman's arm, clearly not amused by the jest. “Do you have any idea how scared I was?” Now the Imperial just had to milk this situation for all it was worth.
“You certainly didn't seem scared when you had your tongue in my mouth.” By this point in his adventure in Equestria, Reman had grown accustomed to the pony's strange ability to blush through fur. This phenomena was made all the more satisfying by the contrast of Glade bleached coat. It was obvious that the mare had a rebuttal brewing, but all that came out was a sputtering warble of noise.
“What ever is the matter, my little pony, wolf got your tongue?” Luna failed at humor yet again. If there was ever something to bring Glade form her embarrassed stupor, it was the poorly executed excuse of a pun.
“Can we please get off of this?” By every member of the Firmament, this one was almost too easy.
“Only if you get off of me, first.” It was worth the slap across the face, the Imperial didn't get many opportunities to have a lot of fun, so he took what he could get. “Fine, be a buzz kill.” The excitement died down as time went on, curiosity and worry were in the forefront of those gathered, each for his or her own reason.
For Glade, it was her earlier outburst. The mare didn't know what possessed her to kiss the Imperial, but it happened without pause. She felt worse than when her parents found out about her foalhood crush on Thunderstorm of the Wonderbolts. By Celestia, that had been embarrassing. There were few things worse than one's father thinking his daughter's idol was an Equestrian Royal Airforce reject , that was a direct quotation.
Luna thought about the trial that lay before the lycans. An expedition into the Everfree Forest was dangerous even for experienced adventurers, and Reman as unfamiliar with the local wildlife, he might end up poisoning Glade and himself if he wasn't careful. Sure, they had armor, but a hydra could just tear through it. Or crush them. Or swallow them whole. Or, or... She needed to calm down, panic solved nothing. The Lunar Princess assured herself that the two unlikely partners would be just fine, they would succeed regardless of adversity. It was only after thinking that, when Luna realized the phrase's double meaning.
Princess Celestia was far ahead of any other in the room. During this long, pregnant pause, she had pondered a number of ramifications to Reman's presence in Equestria, and all things that they entailed. The Dominion that Glade mentioned had earned much of the Imperial's malice, the man had even expressed a desire to see its capitol, the Grand Citadel, burn to the ground. The nation was ruled by elves, which sounded like humans with pointed ears, and had banned the worship of one of the Nine Divines. From Luna's own scrying, it was determined that the Altmer, the elves of the Dominion, possessed powerful mages, even enough to make Reman's own spells seem like parlor tricks. That news, along with the information given about the Daedra put Celestia on edge. If a bridge to Nirn was ever constructed, invasion seemed like an eerie possibility.
Compared to the others, Reman's own thoughts were the most far reaching, if only in scale. While he wasn't focusing on nations, his own safety, or Glade's sudden forwardness, he still had a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. There were few things on Nirn that could instill fear into the man's heart, and this was one of them. His time in Aetherius had inspired him, if only because of his ancestor, Aurelius, and his battle against Umaril the Unfeathered. While he couldn't fight a champion of Hircine, for he doubted one resided in Equestria, he would need to settle for a powerful beast. Even then, there was no guarantee of success. To be so close, but to have the odds stacked in the house's favor, the suspense was maddening. They might not win, they may fail to find the cure, unless...
“Reman, who was the werewolf that attacked us?” Glade's question broke the ponderous silence. Her curiosity was natural, of course, so it was only fair that he provide an answer. However, the Imperial wasn't sure if he wanted to disclose the information. Reman took a deep breath and prepared himself.
“This is a very long story, but you have to hear it all to understand my relation to the Dunmer we fought.” The mares took notice of his voice's tone, sorrowful with a hint nostalgia. Whatever the story was about, it obviously held some found memories.
“Only if you want to tell us, Reman.” Luna couldn't deny her curiosity, and Glade had some idea of what he was referring to: Kvatch. Rose had shown the lycan mare some of Reman's childhood, and the Lunar Princess had gleaned some information from reading the Imperial's unconscious mind. However, Celestia was left in the dark about the entire situation.
“Alright, where do I begin?” Reman pondered for a moment, searching for a suitable point to start. Finding that the beginning was the very best, he settled for it. “I was born in Cyrodiil, the capital of the Third Empire, home of the Imperial City. I spent my childhood on Grey Gold Farm, which had been owned by my family for over two centuries, purchased by Joan the Champion after the Oblivion Crisis. Life was good, I had family, friends...” The Imperial paused, thoughts barraging him with the force of a mammoth. “Love.” Glade had some faint knowledge of Reman's earlier potential mates, but the man had never spoken directly of them.
“One day, the 13th of Rain's Hand, a Fridas if my memory serves, the family of my fiance was attacked by a werewolf.” The werewolf made sense, but the ponies were taken back by Reman's casual mention of being betrothed at one point. How could he say something so nonchalantly? “I killed that lycan, but not before he had ended the life of Gaston Jemane, my future father-in-law, and not before...” His voice drifted off again, but his hand hovered towards the scar between his shoulder and neck, his infection wound. It was only now that Glade understood why Reman had reacted so violently to Zenammu's insulting of his Breton bitch . “Now you know why I want the cure, and why Hircine sent the Dunmer to kill me.”
“That was... something else.” In truth, Celestia didn't know what else to say. Reman certainly didn't want pity, and he would refuse generosity. The Imperial only wanted one thing: results. He would stop at nothing to achieve his goal, and he would cure Glade in the process.
“How do our odds look?” The lycan mare asked her alpha, she sought his guidance, for he had much experience in dealing with Daedra.
“With my normal plan? Slim to none.” Reman paused briefly, letting his words sink in. To his surprise, Glade didn't seem to be affected all that much, really, she just looked a little depressed. “No need to be so glum, I have a better plan, one that, if successful, will secure a cure.” The Imperial gave something between a feral grin and a jovial smile.
“And that would be?” Glade asked, but Celestia and Luna wondered as well. Ignorance breeds a need to learn in the educated, and the ponies were no exception.
“Summer Glade, you and I are going to kill a god.”
View Online
Aren't You Supposed to be Quiet in a Hospital?
There are moments when man looks to his leader, and valiantly charges at his command. This was not one of those moments, rather, a mare considered her alpha to be suicidal. Only a fool would fight a being of such immense power as a Daedric Prince, even the weakest made the Princesses pale in comparison. “We are going to fight Hircine to the death. Upon our victory, he is bound by honor to grant each of us one wish within his realm of influence.”
“Are you insane?” Glade shouted at her friend, who moments ago had expressed his plan to kill a god. The mare resisted the urge to slap him again, that would have been the fifth or sixth if she recalled correctly. “You almost die, and your first idea is to attack a being whose very presence warps reality ?” This was madness of the worst kind, even Canterlot during Discord's brief attack made more sense than the Imperial right now.
“You fail to understand, Glade, I have a plan.” The situation was only made worse by his calm, even tone.
“And that would be?” For the second time today, the lycan mare had her face within millimeters of her alpha's, but affection was the very last thing on her mind. Despite Reman's power as the pack's undisputed alpha male, that made Glade the alpha female, and she held just as much power as her counterpart.
“I'm certain you recall my death, correct?” Glade nodded in response, but she was still ill tempered about it. The two Princesses just watched in silence as the drama unfolded, both wondered what exactly was happening, though Celestia had some idea, the two most powerful wolves in the pack were in disagreement. Never mind that they were the only members of their pack.
“What of it?” Of course she remembered, she almost lost somepony very dear to her, how could she ever forget?
“I met two of my ancestors in the afterlife.” Wait, what? Not only was Reman saying that he had truly died, but that he had crossed over to wherever Imperials go after they pass on?
“Are you sure of what you're saying?” Celestia wasn't clear on the laws that governed Nirn, nor the Divines or Daedra, but the thought of the man dying and returning to life was farfetched, to say the least. Then again, they'd checked Zenammu's corpse, his brain had been turned to ash, but he rose and stabbed Reman in the chest, so the situation wasn't impossible.
“There are few things I am more certain of, Princess.” This was very true of the Imperial, he was the sort that had to see in order to believe. “I met Aurelius the Crusader, my family's patron, and once we began to speak, I remembered his legend.”
“What does that have to do with anything?” Glade had no way of knowing how important this revelation was. If it was possible to sever an Ayleid wizard's soul, then the same process could be manipulated to fit other situations.
“When Aurelius slayed Umaril the Unfeathered, the elf's soul attempted to flee to Oblivion to be reborn. My ancestor followed him into the spirit world and killed Umaril again, permanently ending his existence.” Reman face held a confidant expression, as though victory was assured. “I can't fight Hircine in the next life, at his full power, but we can fight one of his Aspects, and once we kill it, I can bind its power to Equestria.”
“And Hircine will cure us?” Glade ears perked up at the prospect, she still had doubts about the odds, but the promise of combat against a powerful enemy excited something primal within her.
“If he's not too angry about losing some of his power, then, on his honor, he should.” While Reman may have sounded as though victory was assured, in truth, he was scared witless. While the Imperial was powerful in his own right, he was no Nerevarine, and this wasn't the Time of the Bloodmoon. If there was no prophecy foretelling the arrival, then luring Hircine's most powerful Aspect, Guile, into this realm might be too difficult. “I may require some extra magicka to perform the summoning rituals.”
“Magicka?” The term unfamiliar to Celestia, however, Luna knew exactly what he was referring to.
“It's what his people call magical energy.” Reman was surprised that the Princess of Night had recalled the bit of information. The Imperial had almost forgotten that he'd given her that knowledge.
“And you want my help with this?” Celestia didn't sound like she was thrilled by the prospect, but she wasn't put off by it, either.
“Not you specifically, but I do need a powerful magic wielder, preferably more than one.” Reman rattled off his demands, which were worded to sound like requests, as calmly as one might order a tavern meal. The energy for the rituals would still be his exclusive responsibility, no one here knew the proper runes to permanently bind a Daedra to a location, so the duty fell to his shoulders. However, that did not mean that the actual casting was as well, any mage could take some of the burden, with sufficient power or numbers, they could even perform it autonomously.
“I may be persuaded to lend a hoof.” So, that settled it, Princess Celestia was in, good.
“What about me?” Luna was a bit perturbed that she had been overlooked in the plotting, even she wanted to help kick some Daedric ass. The blue mare was more than prepared to deal out payback, nopony hurt her her friends and got away with it.
“If you can use magic, then I have no complaints about it, do you, Princess?” Reman was asking Celestia, he simply referred to Luna by name, by her request. At the Imperial's question, the monarch had no clear response. On one hoof, Luna could provide plenty of power, which would eliminate the need for others to involve themselves. However, was that worth risking her sister's life if the situation soured?
“I suppose that decision can wait for another time.” Reman couldn't blame her for the indecisiveness, if he had to risk his younger sister's life, he would certainly reconsider.
“Don't I have a say in this?” The Princess of Night was none too happy about this, she had the right to choose for herself, after all.
“Luna, listen to your older sister.” The Imperial was rarely so blunt with young women, but this was a life or death situation. Regardless of how often the occurrence was, Luna flinched at his voice, perhaps he should have worded that in a more... eloquent fashion. “This is a very dangerous plan, and we all know that the most either your or Celestia could do is slow Hircine down if he breaks the circle.”
“I don't think you should have used that sort of tone with her, Reman.” Glade was still perched on top of the Imperial, which was odd, she'd had ample time to move.
“I don't believe anyone asked for your opinion, Glade.” Reman smiled as he spoke, of course his words weren't true, this was an open forum. In this situation, the lycan mare's thoughts mattered as much as Celestia's, actually, any idea was a good one at the moment. Summer Glade would have replied, but she was cut short.
“It seems there are a number of ways we can go about this.” The Solar Princess pondered her options, there seemed to be no peaceful end to this fiasco. She could still deny the lycan's this chance if she felt it was too dangerous. No, this had to be done, if not, things could easily escalate. The Daedra might see Equestria as weak, a playground for any twisted plots they may have. The wolves would have their battle, that was certain. “Reman, I have a question for you.”
“Go ahead, Princess, lay it on me.” The Imperial rocked his hips from side to side in an upbeat gesture. It was meant as a joke, but was made even funnier by Glade's reaction, who was still sitting on his pelvic region. The Pegasus squealed and stood up, crimson splashed across her features.
“Why would you do that?” She quietly yelled, that loud whisper one uses to gets someone's attention in a library.
“If the two of you would cease your childish antics, I have something important to ask.” Celestia looked impatient, as though her day had been incredibly long.
“All right, no interruptions this time.” As Reman spoke, Glade sat back down, in the very spot she'd occupied moments ago.
“Where exactly do you plan on hosting the summoning ritual?”
@#@#@#@#@#
You decide where the ritual will be: Canterlot Gardens, Ponyville, or the mountains in the Everfree Forest.
Majority Passes: Mountains
“We should probably use a rocky or mountainous area in the Everfree, some place ponies don't visit often, or ever , less likely for innocent bystanders to get hurt that way.” Reman's suggestion was airtight, civilian casualties should be avoided at all costs. One would think he'd been in this sort of situation before, or that the Imperial had received some sort of help forming or refining the idea.
“I'll have some Pegasi in my guard scout for a reasonable location as soon as we're through here.” Celestia agreed that it was time to end things, this battle had been delayed long enough. Each day that passed presented a chance for one of the lycans to lose control and spread the disease, a tragedy that must be prevented.
“Good, try to find a place that's wide and open, but still has cover littered through it.” The Imperial knew what to look for, one battle with a Thalmor wizard had forced him to run between boulders and snipe with a bound bow. It had been a hard fight, but the victor was obvious, only Reman was still alive to tell the tale, not that he ever talked about it. “That hardly solves every issue with this, though.”
“Right, we still need to decide who to bring with us as backup, in case things get out of hoof.” Glade didn't believe they would need help, but it never hurt to be prepared. “I recommend Captain Shining Armor, his barrier-based magic would be ideal for this.” The other three nodded, clearly in agreement with the lycan mare's suggestion. “See, Reman, I do have good ideas.”
“Don't get ahead of yourself.” The Imperial chuckled and rustled Glade's dyed mane, he found that joking with his pack-mate was rather enjoyable. Perhaps he should have taken Kodlak's advice about being too serious, it might have made things go much easier for the Imperial. “We aren't out of the woods yet.”
“Do you suppose bringing the Elements would be a good idea?” Luna asked both Reman and Celestia, the decision rested on the Solar Princess' shoulders, but the man could still deny the six friends the chance to see the battle.
“That certainly depends, can they provide any assistance?” The lycan had seen too many adventurers die because they got in over their heads. Reman wasn't about to risk innocent lives.
“They are the bearers of the most powerful magic in Equestria, capable of sealing away beings that could easily defeat myself.” The Imperial had no way of knowing who or what she was referring to, but understood the function of the Elements. In his mind, the jewelry they appeared as was similar to the Amulet of Kings, something he had a very intimate knowledge of, the damned thing was on his family's crest, for Mara's sake! “I do not know if they could stop this Hircine character, but combine with my own power, and that of my sister, we may be able to banish him from Equestria.”
“Princess, that isn't what I meant.” Potential didn't matter if the wielder didn't have the constitution necessary for it. “I was asking if the have the ability to help. If they freeze at the sight of blood or violence, there is no place for them.”
Celestia would have replied, but the Imperial's point made her pause. Fluttershy might go into shock, but the others would do fine, relatively speaking, of course. But this would be an important learning experience for the young Bearers, a lesson that not all worlds are as kind as Equestria, but still manage to contain wonderful, caring individuals. The Princess had lost track of how many times the Imperial had stunned her, but Reman never failed to make her think.
“I know that you're worried about Fluttershy, but don't be, I can tell that there's a fire behind those eyes.” The Princess resisted calling Reman out for his statement, but she doubted he knew how to read minds. “So, did I guess, right? Were you worried about her?”
“I must say, most ponies can't tell what I’m thinking, my student included, that's rather impressive.” Outstanding, simply outstanding. The Princess would have thought much higher of the trick, had she not known how unfair of an advantage the Imperial had used. A predator's instinct and senses are a razor that cuts a swathe through any battlefield, it seemed that also applied to the mental ones, as well. “But, yes, I was worried for her.”
Celestia had never guessed that the man held a deep understanding for the reserved and shy. In truth, he respected most people for their unique talents, lethal or otherwise. If Reman gave his opinion, and it was one of approval, then the Solar Princess defaulted to his judgment. Of every occupant of this hospital room, the lycan held the most experience of them all, probably more than the most battle-hardened of Celestia's Royal Guard, too. This sort of knowledge was never to be turned down, especially not in a situation as dire as this.
“I've made my decision.” Celestia's voice held a hint of finality in it, as though the choice was difficult, but she had faith in her answer. “The Elements of Harmony shall attend the ritual, and provide their assistance if the need arises.”
“I have my doubts about this, Tia.” Luna was indeed apprehensive of the events to transpire. Truly, she had only seen Reman in battle twice, and neither had been very pretty. The Princess of Night had no desire to see either of the lycans get hurt, and the prospect of the godlike entity spread true fear into her very core. “What if they can't defeat the Daedra?”
“Oh come on, we're right here .” Did Glade just take offense at what one of her rulers just said? This was both delightful and horrifying. It meant that she was losing loyalty to the Princesses, while growing closer to the Imperial. Such behavior could complicate things in the future, if either of the lycans lived to have a future, that is.
“Perhaps it's better if we discuss this in the hall, Luna.” Celestia wasn't eager to talk about this at all, any negative feedback might psych the two pack-mates out, and morale is key to victory in any battle.
“That may be wise.” The two Princesses quickly left the room, even walking down the hall to escape the werewolves' incredible hearing. This left Reman and Glade very much alone.
The mare was still in her forebear's lap, and quite comfortable, but still a bit tense. She was still embarrassed about earlier, the absence of the Princesses would have made it much easier on her, but there had been no such luck. Perhaps Reman was fine with it, he certainly hadn't complained about it, well, at least not seriously. If he was okay with it, and that was a very big if , then why hadn't he said anything about it?
“Well, what's going on in that head of yours?” The Imperial had his suspicions about Glade's odd behavior as of late. Sickness wasn't even an option here, and this certainly isn't something that can be fixed. Researching werewolves, learning the oral history, even asking his fellow lycans about the affliction, they had all led Reman to his theory. Summer Glade was not sick, quite the opposite, her body was telling her that she was very healthy. This scenario had been played out so many times that it almost bordered social cliché. The alpha female of the pack was bonding with the alpha male.
Needless to say, this left Reman in a delicate situation. On one hand, this sort of relationship was enjoyable for all parties involved, monogamous or otherwise. However, he was still technically engaged to Lynette, and it was made known that she still had hope to find the Imperial. Then there was a tiny option that was rarely visited save for adolescent fantasies: owning up to the fact that he was an alpha male, he could mate with as many females as he wished. This was one of those times that made being a lycan difficult. The man sighed and wondered why Mara wasn't lending her guiding hand.
“Reman, listen...” Glade's voice trailed off, she wasn't eager to discuss this. In truth, neither was the Imperial, who hadn't even thought of romance in four years. This was going to be awkward regardless of how things played out, Reman just couldn't catch a break, could he? “About earlier...”
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Now, my faithful audience, I have two pieces of wonderful news.
I just broke the 50k barrier.
You have another choice in this fic, maybe more.
Now, here are your options:
Reman decides to reciprocate Glade's attraction.
Reman refuses, but attempts to do so gently. (She'll be fighting by his side, not a good idea to piss her off.)
OR, Reman tries to balance affection for both Lynette and Glade. (My personal choice, for reasons that will eventually become clear.)
OR (Given by Proto [please don't vote for this]) Reman engages in fornication with Luna.
“About earlier...” Glade seemed embarrassed and nervous, Reman could almost hear the mare's heart pounding. “I have no idea why I did that.” The lycan pony flinched slightly when she felt her forebear's hand touch the side of her face.
“Glade, look at me.” The Imperial's voice was firm but gentle, the tone one uses when approaching a frightened child. The mare slowly complied with his wishes, she looked into his eyes after ten seconds. True to usual form, Reman didn't look upset in the least, if anything, he looked a bit... happy. A small half-smile decorated his features, like he had enjoyed her earlier actions. The Imperial wasn't acting strangely, at least not abnormally so.
That changed when Reman mirrored her earlier gesture, and actually kissed her. It hadn't lasted four seconds before he pulled back, leaving a slightly dumbfounded Summer Glade.
“We're even now, so you can stop worrying about it.” He worded that in a serious way, however his tone was playful.
“W-what was that? .” The lycan mare was still a little shaken, but not entirely displeased by things. The Imperial rested his forehead on hers, his eyes closed, neither of them moved. This situation was unusual to say the least. Glade relaxed into her forebear, she realized that this may have been the warrior's only leisure in some time. The tender moment was ended abruptly, by none other than Equestria's monarch.
“This time, I'm definitely interrupting something.” Celestia chuckled a little, but had difficulty understanding why she had caught the lycans in rather inappropriate situation, twice . Glade realized why the Princess of Day was known for her sense of humor. Luna was flanking her older sister, and the Princess of Night was having a much easier time wrapping her head around this situation than the Solar Princess. “Just what's going on between you two?”
“Sister, I think it has something to do with their... condition.” Luna had tiptoed around lycanthropy, but still had to get her point across, and she certainly hadn't enjoyed making the two werewolves sound like plague bearers. “Some sort of instinct that drives them to others with the same... illness.” She really needed to word her sentences in a more effective way, but, much to her surprise, neither of the lycans seemed offended by it.
“You're actually very close, but still a ways off.” The two lycans had abandoned their earlier position, and now opted for their current one, which had Glade's back against Reman's chest, with the Imperial's arms wrapped around the mare's stomach. “The alpha male and female share an attraction, as they are the two strongest members of their pack, any offspring they bear are likely to be powerful as well.”
“That is certainly a... scientific way to look at it.” In truth, Celestia could see why Hircine would plug that into lycanthropy, it certainly made sense. If the affliction was hereditary, which it could be, being a transferred by bodily fluids as it was, it would easily produce stronger lycans. If the pack raised offspring in a communal way, the odds of the young werewolf's survival was increased exponentially by the number of lethal protectors. “But that doesn't explain why it's only hitting you two now, why not before?”
“Proximity and biological difference, most likely.” Reman shrugged, he wasn't a healer, nor a student of the Altmer science called psychology , something about it being the science of the mind, whatever that meant. “Glade's progression on the lycanthropy timescale has been faster than any I've read about.”
“It didn't change you as quickly as me?” Glade looked rather confused, she didn’t understand that every race feels the effects of the common strains of lycanthropy differently. The strain she and Reman shared was unique, and may take a random amount of time to effect each individual.
“It took me three days before my first transformation.” The Imperial tightened his grip on the mare, who scooted closer in response. “Glade, you had the benefit of medical attention and anesthetics, I didn't have either, and I was on the run the entire time.” this drew a worried look from all in the room.
“Your family chased you away when you were infected?” Luna sincerely hoped this was not the case, family was meant to one's foundation, a pillar of support in times of need.
“No, I exiled myself.” Once again, the Imperial's eyes took on the hollowed looked they always did when discussing his time time in Cyrodiil. “After I killed the werewolf, which was Zenammu, as we now know, I passed out.” Reman sighed before he continued. “When I woke up, I knew something was wrong. At the time, I had some knowledge of how vampirism was transferred, and feared the same applied to lycanthropy.”
“Your world has vampires?” Celestia cocked her head slightly, clearly amazed by this development. “As in the bloodsucking, immortal, soulless creatures of the night, that kind of vampire, right?”
“Yeah, in fact, a good friend of mine in Morrowind is a vampire, sweet girl, very traditional.” The three ponies drew a blank at the Imperial's casual admission of his friendship with a member of the ranks of the undead. “Equestria has dragons, Unicorns, Pegasi, Alicorns, and magic in abundance, you're talking to a werewolf, that uses magic, and vampires is where you draw the line?”
“When you phrase it that way, yes!” Celestia was, by far, the most shocked of the ponies by this revelation, despite the evidence that Equestria was just as strange as Nirn. The Solar Princess had trouble believing that monsters she had ordered the extermination of, and for good reason, were commonly accepted in Reman's world. “You have vampires running around in the streets.”
“Not true, most have to hide their predatory nature, lest the sheep suspect the wolves.” Reman paused for a moment, and realized just how poor his wording had been. “Sorry, I used the wrong phrase.” He tried to remember what had been said on the matter, but drew a blank. “Never mind, it's gone.”
“I think we're getting a little off subject, here.” Luna jumped at the opportunity to be the voice of reason. This chance presented itself rarely, so it must be seized whenever it rears its beautiful head. “What my sister and I were talking about earlier, the two of you fighting Hircine, we have decided to give our full support, any resources or equipment you need to accomplish your mission.”
“Luna is correct, we've all ready sent for Captain Shining Armor, he'll be here in a few hours.” Celestia recovered from her shock quickly, perhaps it had been a show, the Imperial would never find out in this life. “However, his wife has requested that she accompany him, I hope that doesn't bother you.”
“Your letting his wife get involved?” Now it was Reman's turn to cock his head. “I thought you were attempting to minimize civilian involvement.”
“Reman, you need to know something.” Glade tapped a hoof on the Imperial's jaw, which easily captured his attention. The alpha complied with his counterpart's wishes and lowered his head, leaving his ear next to Glade's mouth. “Captain Shining Armor is married to Celestia's niece, Cadence, she's another Alicorn.” That was all Reman needed to hear before he returned his attention to the Princesses.
“She won't be dead weight, right?” The Alicorns' jaws dropped at the man's rudeness, but he was justified in his impatience.
“All Alicorns have large amounts of magical power.” Celestia had a tone of finality in her voice, seemed she knew what she was talking about. Well, of course she did, Cadence was one of her own, after all. “I'm certain that she will lend a hoof to your aid, she is one of the kindest ponies in Equestria, you know.”
“If there is no other news, I believe we need to approach our next order of business.” Luna knew that they had spent too much time discussing other things, now they needed to get back to work. “We still need to let the Elements know that you are okay.”
“Seems easy enough, but wait, there's more, right?” Reman knew how theses things went, first the easy stuff, then the hard part no one ever tells the adventure they'ed hired until after they've accepted the quest.
“We need to know if they'll come with us to the ritual.”
If anyone has any questions about the Elder Scrolls universe Reman is from, ask me, I've come up with a few interesting things about it.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
As it turns out, leaving a hospital after one has been, for all intents and purposes, dead, is rather difficult. Nevertheless, Princess Celestia had ensured that Reman would be allowed to leave, something that left the lycan immensely grateful.
“Reman, I've been meaning to ask you something.” This was certainly out of the blue, but the Imperial could always humor the Solar Princess. Celestia was looking at the man as though thoroughly confused by something.
“Go ahead, Princess, I'll try not to keep you in the dark about anything.” That wasn't entirely true, there were several things that Reman would never tell her, most of which weren't meant for polite company. He only hoped Celestia's query was appropriate for the streets they now walked through.
“Let's say you kill Hircine and bind part of his power to Equestria, then what? How will you get home afterwords?” Reman stopped dead in his tracks. The Princess raised an excellent question, how was he going to get home? Well, barring the obvious, he wasn't left with many options. At least he had an answer for Celestia's question.
“I suppose I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.” The Imperial resumed walking, even as Luna and her sister stopped to look at him. Both Princesses had looks that implied their belief in Reman's insanity. Glade was the first to speak after the awkward silence.
“It is a wonder you've lasted the past four years on your own, you never seem to plan ahead.” Glade knew of his time away from Kvatch, in the time the two had spent alone, the Imperial had vividly described the golden fields and smooth, rolling hill of the Colovian Highlands. Each time, without fail, Reman had sounded at least somewhat saddened by his tales, with good reason.
“I am one lucky man, Glade.” The lycan chuckled at his own joke, which was found to be the exact opposite of funny, as demonstrated by Celestia's serious expression. Even she knew how much misfortune had befallen the Imperial, even if Reman would deny it, but the Princess understood that there must have been some deep seeded sorrow. “Not really, usually someone swoops in and saves my ass at the last second.” The man thought for a moment, as though recalling every time a resident of Nirn had safeguarded his life. Out of nowhere, Reman started laughing.“Come to think of it, that's how I’ve made most of my friends!”
“Bonds forged in fire are the strongest, as they say.” That was Luna's way of compensating for her own inexperience. She felt the need to dispense knowledge whenever appropriate. She had two experienced warriors and an older sibling to compete, the Princess of Night had to make up for it somehow.
“And ponies that try and use a warrior's knowledge look foolish, as I say.” At this, Celestia giggled, enjoying Reman's humor, even at her sister's expense.
“It's about time you started being funny again.” The other two mares had to agree with the Solar Princess, the Imperial was a little gloomy when he wasn't making people laugh. However, the revelation was a blow to the man's ego, was he only here for comedic relief?
“This Shining Armor character, was he at the Festival?” This was important, if the stallion had been present, it may put a strain on his ability to work alongside the Imperial. Reman only asked for that reason, and not because Twilight's dossier hadn't mentioned a brother. Never mind the fact that the Imperial hadn't mentioned either of his own brothers, because he doubted Uriel and Titinius would appreciate being spoken of to magical equines.
“He was in the gazebo I gave my commencement speech from.” Luna gave a speech? Well, it made sense to the Imperial that he have no recollection of it, party has to be started before one can crash it.
“How did he seem afterwords, any particular anger towards me?” It wouldn't be the first time Reman had dealt with angry military officers, he'd punched a legate in the face before. In the Imperial's defense, the guy was giving Reman the stink eye.
“As much as one can expect after seeing his subordinates being ripped to shreds.” Luna now attempted sarcastic humor. She failed to measure up to others who performed and perfected the craft.
“Let me rephrase that.” Reman shot the blue mare a flat look. “Is he going to be angry that I'm near his sister?”
“Without a doubt.” Glade's input was unexpected, but she did have knowledge of the captain's behavior. What kind of dirt could she have on other officers of the Equestrian military. “But I'm certain Princess Cadence will keep him from assaulting you.”
“Is every pony in this country violently irrational when it comes to family?” While it sounded like a joke, the Imperial couldn't have been more serious. Alteration experience gave Reman knowledge of how powerful barrier spells could be, even Restoration's Ward spells were strong in their own right. He'd seen Toldir, the resident Alteration expert at the College of Winterhold, expand a forcefield inside a test cadaver. There were few things that Reman had seen that could measure up to all of the hilarity and gore that he'd seen that day.
“Only the members of my guard, protection if part of their duty.” Celestia seemed pleased with herself, if one judged purely by her response. The little jest was only partially true, but the guard existed mostly for civilian defense, the Princesses could handle almost anything else.
“Take me for example, I'm a werewolf with a terrible disposition.” They all laughed, even as they drew strange looks from passersby, directed at Reman and his alpha female, never the Princesses. It felt good to be able to joke around, the luxury was so rarely enjoyed by any of them. “Princess, isn't the library just around the corner up ahead?”
“Yes, I believe it is.” Indeed it was, the Elements were inside, all six, and each seemed slightly downtrodden, despite the sunny weather. There were two ponies that Reman did not recognize, one was a white Unicorn stallion, likely Shining Armor, and the other was a pink Alicorn, Princess Cadence by the Imperial's best guess. “I suppose you want me to go in first?”
“I think that would be wise.” Few could argue with Reman when his mind was set. Princess Celestia felt that he was correct, this way there were fewer chances for something to start. The monarch sighed before she knocked on the door. The Imperial and his female counterpart hid behind a nearby shrub, this should be a very enjoyable moment.
“Auntie, you're just in time.” Cadence's voice sounded peculiarly young, like a teenager, in a sense. “We arrived only moments ago.”
“Yes, Cadence, it's good to see you, too.” Celestia and Luna both stepped inside, leaving the door open. “Now, girls, I have a very special surprise for you.”
“That we're going to cheer for Reman when he fights Hircine?” Pinkie knew about the plan? How in Oblivion did she garner that information? The Imperial ended up answering his own question, either Shining Armor or Cadence had informed the Elements.
“What Pinkie means is, well, the two of us 're in.” Applejack's voice had lost a portion on its odd twang, but quickly regained the oddly charming quality. “Let's jus' see that monster try somethin'.”
“If Reman needs our assistance, I'm behind him all the way.” Rarity's support was appreciated, and surprising. She didn't seem the type to condone violence outside of duels. “I only regret that my hooves might get dirty.”
“I'm not afraid to hoof to hoof with a god if I have to.” Dash reared onto her hind legs and bobbed as though she were a boxer, taking a few jabs at the air.
“I only hope that Reman and Glade don't get hurt.” Fluttershy didn't stutter, another surprising development. The shy pony was starting to get pumped for the fight, by her standards.
“Princess, I have no doubt that my fellow Elements and I will be of great use in the coming battle.” Has Twilight been reading war history or something? She sounded like she was boosting troop morale with a speech before the day's combat.
“While your enthusiasm is appreciated, that wasn't my reason for returning so early.” Celestia was attempting to build suspense, and Reman was unsure about how that was going to work.
“What is it, Auntie, you look worried.” The Imperial was still getting over Celestia having a niece. Seriously, that was a surprise, like Twilight having a brother, she seemed more like an only child.
“My surprise is right behind me.” The Solar Princess pointed out the door, right at Reman and Glade, who were now standing in the doorway. The Elements were familiar enough with Reman's from to ignore his rather impressive collection of battle scars. Cadence and Shining Armor, however, were both amazed and horrified at the prospect of one being fight so much, some of those looked new, and many accumulated from years of combat. Feeling particularly civil, Reman raised his hand and waved.
“Hello.”
Time For a Guessing Game!
“Hello.” Reman, in his own mind, was a shining example of an Imperial diplomat, shrewd, cunning. Of course, in reality, he wasn't a diplomat, and those he addressed weren't foreign emissaries. Every pony that was in the library, save Luna and Celestia, was stunned by the man. Whether due to his miraculous recovery, or simply seeing the Imperial for the first time, shock and awe was felt around the room.
The Imperial saw a flash of pink fly towards him, and didn't really want to dodge. Pinkie didn't actually hit Reman, but stopped incredibly close to collision. The party pony bounced up and down excitedly, speaking at a speed that shattered every carriage record in Cyrodiil. Two shades of pink jumped up and latched onto the Imperial's torso, and the pony was still squabbling nonsensically.
“OMIGOSHYOU'REALIVETHISISAMAZINGANDIGETTOTRHOWAPARTYABOUTYOUBEINGALIVEANDOKAYANDTHESTOREBEINGBROKE...” Reman stopped paying attention after a few moments, it wasn't like Pinkie was going to say something important. The party pony continued to babble for a few moments, before she exhausted her surprise. If that was even possible. “... BOOMBANGCRASHANDYOUWEREALLROAR ” Pinkie thrust her forelegs into the air, an attempt to mimic Reman's own roar, likely from the Festival. “And now we get to see even more!”
“Well, I see someone is happy that I'm still alive and kicking.” Despite his jovial attitude, Reman had failed to set Shining Armor at ease. The captain was still looking at the lycan with apprehension and well hidden aggression, the Imperial doubt anyone but the two knew about it. Reman set Pinkie down and stepped inside, acting as though he was attempting to escape the cold of the Equestrian winter. After remaining silent for a few seconds, Glade punched the man in the leg, a noiseless hint, which the Imperial immediately understood.. “I believe introductions are in order.”
“I am Princess Cadence, niece of Princess Celestia.” The pink Alicorn curtsey/bowed, it was obvious that she was somewhat nervous about meeting the lycan, and it was certainly understandable. Reman had grown accustomed to seeing royalty cowering in his presence, even Jarl of Winterhold had a tendency to sweat when the Imperial was around. As Cadence stood again, the Unicorn stallion approached.
“Captain Shining Armor of the Equestrian Royal Army.” Shining Armor saluted Reman, who didn't return the gesture. The stallion held his salute stiffly, men like him would keep on until someone saluted them back. Better to end it before it becomes annoying.
“You can stop, I'm not in the Legion, never have been.” The guardspony looked stumped, until he realized the correlation between the word Legion and its military definition. As understanding took hold, Shining Armor returned his hoof to the floor. “Pleasure to meet the both of you, I am Reman of Cyrodiil.”
If Cadence was nervous, her husband was downright aggressive. It was obvious that the guardspony didn't trust the Imperial, not that he could be faulted for it, most had an instinctive fear of Reman, whether they had the right to be afraid, or not. Despite the implications of rank, Shining Armor wasn't a warrior, he was much more of a leader. The Imperial had more combat experience in one finger than the stallion had in his entire body, if the Unicorn's eyes were anything to go by. Rookie eyes, Reman could spot them from a mile away, and whoever owned the pair never failed to live up to their expectations.
“I'm getting tired of these long silences.” Summer Glades sentence destroyed its subject, said silence was counterproductive to the lycans' current objective. If Cadence and Shining Armor were not sold on the idea of helping quickly, the quest may take days more to complete. The pink Alicorn would be the easier of the two, while Glade had no doubt that the stallion would be stubborn to the end. There had to be something that either of the lycans could use to influence Shining Armor's opinion of the matter.
“That makes two of us.” Reman agreed, things were going too slow, even for his tastes. The Imperial was the sort to wait and test the waters before taking action, this approach had won the Empire several wars in the past. However, the Dominion had defeated that strategy, and the Empire, with horrifying efficiency. If there was ever evidence that the Old Way was obsolete, it was the Aldmeri assault. Perhaps, with a little luck, the natural diplomatic skills of the Imperial race would come in handy. “I believe it would be best for us to begin preparations.”
“How are you still walking around?” For once, Rainbow Dash's voice was quiet, but at least she spoke, unlike most of her friends. The blue Pegasus looked at Reman with a strange mix of awe and curiosity, no doubt that she was unable to wrap her head around the Imperial's recovery.
“I'm a tough dog to put down.” The lycan gave a grin, showing his sharp teeth. The display had no adverse effect on any of the Elements, but Cadence and Shining Armor visibly tensed at the sight.
“Dog?” Did the Element of Loyalty not remember Glade's explanation? Reman's transformative ability wasn't exactly a secret, by any means. However, given the incorrect nature of the notes Glade had presented, it was likely that Dash had pushed the possibility aside. If she didn't know that the Imperial was the monster from the Festival, things might go horribly wrong. Or, not so horribly, it really depended on Dash's reaction.
“I'm a lycan, Rainbow, I shapeshift between this form,” Reman used his hand to indicate that he was referring to his body, because Dash didn't seem all that bright at the moment. “To a more... monstrous one.”
“What does that have to do with anything?” Dash cocked her head slightly, thoroughly stumped by the Imperial's statement. The alpha briefly hoped the Pegasus was joking, but one look in her eyes declared truth. Summer Glade decided to speak on her forebear's behalf.
“Rainbow, he was the werewolf from the Festival.” There were two types of possible reactions to that statement, and both were present. Dash looked as though she hadn't heard anything more amazing in quite some time, however, Cadence and Shining Armor could have responded better.
The Unicorn stallion looked as though he was about to charge, or maybe that was the standard pony posture of aggression, Reman had no idea which. Armor's reaction could have been attributed to the Imperial's close proximity to both Cadence and Twilight, or Celestia and Luna, either option was likely. The pink Alicorn, however, was only slightly unnerved by the revelation, but neither her nor her husband took it well.
“You don't like that, do you?” Reman gave Shining Armor a snide grin. Even if the stallion wasn't a warrior by Nirn's definition, both males understood a common vernacular: intimidation. While Armor may been a brilliant leader, perhaps even a capable fighter, but theory and book knowledge would do little against a being with a higher kill count than most Equestrian battles. Sensing danger, Cadence rushed into action, well, rushed was kind of a stretch.
“Please stop!” Despite her attempt at a commanding voice being a complete failure, both males complied, but tension remained. Fighting between the two could go either way, at a range, Shining Armor held the advantage; in melee, the victory would surely go to Reman. Regardless, any injury would be catastrophic to either combatant, an uneasy truce was called silently, with both sides compromising on certain subjects.
Reman would keep his hands and genitals far away from Twilight, in return, Shining Armor would erect a barrier around any observer to the ritual, provided they weren't actually fighting Hircine. The room returned to its normal level of activity, most of it was focused on planning the coming battle. With this plotting, Reman couldn't help but be reminded of his grandfather, who had fought during the Great War, old bastard was one of the most respected members of the Legion because of his service.
And here was his grandson, working on a strategy to kill a Daedric Prince. The apple doesn't fall far from the metaphorical tree, it would seem.
“How powerful will this Aspect of Guile be?” Shining Armor tried to sound like he held authority, and maybe he did, but not over the Imperial.
“The only one to ever defeat him was the Nerevarine.” Reman responded as he would if Ulfric Stormcloak had asked him something, with a blatant holier-than-thou attitude. “And none of us are Dunmer locked in one of Azura's prophecies.”
“Azura?” Glade hadn't heard that name before, it certainly didn't sound like it was Imperial, and it bore no resemblance to Zenammu's, so the ruled out any elven origin. The odd title struck a chord with the mare, a certain familiarity.
“The Prince of Dawn and Dusk.” Reman held out his hand as he explained, a strange habit for him to have. “She's one of the nice Daedra, but you can't really label the Daedra as good or evil.” The Imperial trailed off for a moment, thinking about something. “Come to think of it, I don't know why she's called the Mother of Roses , the only rose I know of with Daedric affiliation is Sanguine's Rose.”
Mother of Roses? Dawn and dusk? Reman's world had two moons, and the Daedra can bypass the laws of physics. Glade suddenly had a sinking feeling in her stomach, her mind flashed to Rose's anger. Was the mystery mare Azura in disguise? What happened when one invoked the wrath of a god? The lycan mare pushed the thoughts aside, if the Daedra was going to do something, she would have by now, right? But, just to be sure...
“You said Azura was a nice Prince, right?” Glade asked her alpha, the only one here with any experience on the subject. “Has anypony, em, anybody ever made her mad?” Much to her fear, her fellow lycan started laughing, the sort of laugh one gets when recalling a morbid joke. This did nothing to improve Glade's confidence.
“Like you wouldn't believe. I say she's one of the nice ones, but if you piss her off, her revenge is so fast that you don't even have time to react.” This must have been a lesson that the Imperial had learned at a young age, likely a story from his childhood.
“How does any of this affect our planning?” Shining Armor had no patience for the two lycans, especially Reman. He knew Glade was in the Royal Guard, but she had never served under him. Despite that, the captain was disgusted that Glade was out of uniform, AWOL, and fraternizing with a known threat to Equestria. However, he kept those thoughts to himself.
“The Nerevarine, foretold by Azura, stripped the Tribunal's godhood.” Reman's statement meant nothing to the stallion, but he still feigned shock. “The Daedra waited nearly four thousand years, but she still had her revenge.”
Glade felt ill.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Bonus points to anyone who can figure out what Azura's revenge on Glade is.
Hint- It involves Hircine and the transformation that I didn't write in, keep in mind Hircine's reaction to Azura's plan and anything he said.
Cheesy, Pre-Suicide Mission Banter
“Can we focus on the task at hoof, please?” Shining Armor was pouring over a rather detailed map. Two Pegasi scouts had arrived a few moments ago, bringing a number of possible locations, all mapped, with directions from the library. Excellent cartography aside, the ponies had completed the task with alarming speed, almost as if Celestia had a number of areas for an occasion such as this.
“The minute you can order me around, I'll do whatever you say, until then, stop acting all high and mighty.” Reman was viewing a separate map, and enjoying what he saw. A flat expanse with a large number of rocks and boulders, a marsh to the south, lake to the west, forest in the east, and a large, steep mountain to the north. All in all, not a bad locale, just needed a place to put the observers and they were good to go.
“Can you two stop with the macho stuff?” Glade was off to the side, chatting with the Elements and Princesses, minus Celestia. The lycan mare had no idea what to look for in a battlefield, so she left the task to those that did. She didn't mind, it gave her time to catch up with two old associates: Cadence and Rainbow Dash. Glade knew the Princess from around the castle, and her rough friendship with Dash was from Flight Camp. “This pissing contest doesn't accomplish anything.”
The two males ignored her, in favor of continuing their individual work. After a few moments, Armor and Reman came to separate conclusions, but both met the same end. Princess Celestia seemed to have her own epiphany regarding their current situation. The three conspirators looked to each other, a silent agreement formed between them. The first to present his findings would be Shining Armor, then Celestia, and finally Reman.
“The clearing south of Dead-End Marsh seems like a prime location, plenty of open space with high maneuverability.” The captain rattled that off like a true tactician. It would appear that the Imperial's earlier impression had held true. The lycan wondered how much hands-on experience Shining Armor actually had.
“I, personally, would suggest Hoofenstein Lake, if things are getting nasty, you and Glade could just dive under the water and distance yourself from Hircine for a few moments.” The Princess raised a valid point, the water was an excellent place to hide. For Reman, anyway, but Glade might have difficult holding her breath for long periods of time. “Now, what do you have for us, Reman?”
“I recommend the Middle Plains.” The Imperial placed his map in the center of the group, showing the location he meant. “It's central to both points you have suggested, but has its own unique benefits.”
“I can certainly see how you reached this conclusion.” If Armor could see that, how did he not reach it first? Perhaps Reman was being too harsh, not that he cared about the stallion's feelings. However, he was Twilight's brother, maybe the Imperial could stand to tone it down some.
“If you need a break from the fight, simply run to one of the other environments.” The Solar Princess seemed impressed by Reman's ingenuity. The lycan never ceased to astound and surprise. If Hircine doesn't send him home after the battle, Celestia had a wonderful job opening for the Imperial.
“So, I take it that we're all in agreement?” The two ponies nodded the affirmative.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
Meanwhile on the other side of the room...
@#@#@#@#@#@#@
“Those wings are huge !” Rainbow was correct, Glade's wings were, in fact, much larger than those of an average Pegasus. “I bet they make some serious wingpower.”
“I haven't actually had a chance to test them out yet.” The lycan mare flexed the appendages, even the tiniest amount of movement displayed how much raw power was held within them. She would have spoken more on the subject, but was sadly interrupted by Shining Armor and Reman arguing. “Can you two stop with the macho stuff? This pissing contest doesn't accomplish anything.” When the alpha female was satisfied by their silent compliance, she returned to her conversation.
Glade didn't expect to have so many eyes on her when she faced the others. Her brazen use of coarse language had invoked a number of reactions, all of different levels of intensity. Twilight, Rarity, and Cadence all looked shocked, while Pinkie and Fluttershy sat wide eyed, not expecting it, but not reacting in a negative way. Applejack, Dash, and Princess Luna, however, had trouble holding back their laughter. Sweet Celestia, what had Glade done that warranted this sort of response?
“What are you all looking at?” The lycan mare sounded irritated, and she was, Glade had never enjoyed scrutinizing eyes being on her.
“You and Reman act like an old married couple.” Dash allowed herself to succumb to her laughter, as did AJ and Luna. Glade felt red rush to her cheeks, a sign only the Princess of Night could accurately interpret. Not that it stopped the others from drawing their own conclusions.
“You look so cute together!” Pinkie either didn't know how loud he was, or didn't care. Regardless, even the trio working over the maps had heard her yelling, well, Reman probably would have heard anyway, mega hearing and all that.
“I must say, a werewolf and a guardspony?” Rarity's eyes gleamed in delight, the gossiper must have sensed a new rumor, a bit of juicy information to sink her teeth into. “Forbidden romance, how scandalous!” The seamstress' dossier had been right, she had a flare for the dramatic.
“Rarity, I think you should be careful.” Fluttershy's voice was small as usual, and she was only trying to be helpful, minding the lycan's emotional state carefully. Despite her good intentions, the Element of Kindness' words almost sound condescending.“You might hurt somepony's feelings.”
“I don't have any problem with it.” At least Princess Luna was being level headed about these jokes. If anypony could refrain from poking fun, it was the Night Princess. “After all, I'm certain the foals will be cute.” Or not.
Glade was through with this. Even though the sun was still out, the lycan mare felt like retiring for the night. Besides, she and her alpha had a big day ahead of them tomorrow, it would be best if both of them rested well. That being relative, of course. Glade wasn't even mad about the jokes, in fact, she would have done the same in any of their shoes. The former guardspony was giving Princess Luna flat, blank stare, implying that she had said something stupid and slightly insane.
“Maybe we should stop.” Cadence had little control over other ponies, she could repair broken bonds but not for love and cooperation. While the jokes were in good fun, the pink Alicorn noticed how Glade reacted to them. “We shouldn't be upsetting anypony.”
“I've had enough of this.” The lycan mare stood, eager to get away from the others. While wolves, by definition, are social creatures, Glade was not the sort to enjoy the company of so many, especially not ponies that tried to be nice. Kindness wasn't wrong by itself, but when paired with jokes, it seems sarcastic even if spoken by the most sincere. Jokes, she could take, but she wasn't given to relying on others. “I'm going to bed.”
“So, I take it that we're all in agreement?” Were the others done picking out a location all ready? It seemed that if Reman and Shining Armor put their heads together, work progressed much faster. “So, Middle Plains it is, then?” The other two map readers gave their consent, it was settled, as soon as possible, the group would move to the Middle Plains and perform the ritual.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
By earliest convenience , they meant tomorrow. This may be the final night that either lycans spent amongst the living, and the possibility was unnerving, to say the least. However, in a matter of minutes, after the decision had been made, everypony was off doing something to prepare. In fact, just about all of them had to bring something important for the ritual, which Reman described the necessity of the items being equivalent to the importance of water to a plant. Glade wasn't a Unicorn, she had no idea if any of them objects held any magical value.
However, Twilight, Celestia, Luna, and Cadence knew that the scavenger hunt was an excuse to get everypony to leave the library until the morning. While an explanation was not given, the mares understood Reman's desire for privacy. After all, one of his only friends was nervous about the ritual, and the burden of reassurance fell to the Imperial's shoulders. For a few moments after the door closed, the two lycans sat in silence, they were in Twilight's guest room, and neither wanted to address the mammoth in the room. Unfortunately, one of them had to.
“Well, Glade, I guess things are closing to an end.” Four years. After four, long years, this nightmare was going to end, one way or another. However, Reman's enthusiasm was hardly felt by the pack's alpha female, who appeared to be fighting back tears. What was wrong? Wasn't she overjoyed at the prospect of a cure? Maybe, just maybe, she was worried about the Imperial relocating to Nirn afterwords, if he did so, Glade would likely never see him again. “My friend, what's troubling you?”
Much to the man's surprise, Glade hugged him again, the same way she had in the hospital. But, the was a difference, she wasn't just worried about Reman right now, she was worried about both of them. Nervous, very nervous and possibly scared, but of what? Even the Imperial wouldn't deny his own fear, but courage means that he was the only one that knew he was afraid.
“Reman,” The mare's voice was small, like that of a child quietly calling for help from a monster in the dark. The man thought he knew how to handle low morale and inspire bravery. However, Glade's next statement defeated even Reman's collection of motivation, and brought light to a fear that was both basic and ever present.“I don't want to die.”
“Glade...” There was nothing the Imperial could say that would alleviate the mare's fears. While Reman can accepted his own mortality some time ago, Glade still had her entire life to live. She still wore the Ring around her neck, so it was possible that she could continue her life as usual without the cure, Celestia probably wouldn't mind, so long as Glade never infected another pony. “Listen... you don't have to fight tomorrow.”
“I'm not just worried about me!” The mare snapped at her alpha, this may have been a sensitive subject. There was something else troubling her, but the man decided it was best to leave it be. “Do you know how worried I was when Zenammu stabbed you?” There was a desire for revenge, Oblivion hath no fury like a woman scorned, as they say. “If I had moved faster, of smashed the bastard's skull in before we tried to leave or-”
“You shouldn't blame yourself, I'm fine.” Reman offered a small, sincere smile. It was the best comfort he could give.
“How are you so calm about this?” Glade was whispering again, obviously either angry or on the verge of another outburst. Despite the odds, the mare didn't perform either option, instead, she chose her own. Again, she kissed the Imperial, who reciprocated in earnest, he hadn't been caught entirely off guard by this one. Displays of affection were not a staple in either of the lycans' childhoods, and even the smallest of them was powerful, even something so simple as this. “Would it hurt you to at least act like you're worried?”
“I've been living as a lycan for the past four years.” That didn't really answer the question, and Reman knew it. But, the answer Glade wanted wasn't what she had hoped for, and the Imperial wasn't going to kick while she was down. After a few more moments of silence, Glade wrapped her forelegs around Reman's neck and pulled herself up to his face's level.
“Reman, I've been thinking.” The lycan mare's eyes were half-lidded, which gave a number of clues to her intentions.
“About what?” Glade leaned closer to the Imperial, close enough for him to feel her breath on his skin. The mare hummed a bit, which, to the alpha male, sounded closer to a purr than anything.
“That if we might die tomorrow...” She pressed her entire body against her forebear, and tightened her grip. There was no doubt anymore, about this situation, about Glade, about himself. Reman had made peace with the Divines long ago, it was time that he actually enjoy his existence. “... I want us to be alive tonight.”
Despite how sick he felt, Reman wasn't scared of heights. He was scared of falling from high places, which made his pilgrimage to High Hrothgar all the more difficult. Needless to say, riding in an open sky chariot was nearly impossible. The lack of actual walls and complete absence of any sort of roof was incredibly nerving to the Imperial. The ground dwelling Elements noticed Reman's discomfort, but only Fluttershy understood the man's suffering.
Glade and Dash were flying next to the chariot, both were easily keeping pace. If the two were talking to each other, they couldn't be heard over the wind, not that any of the chariot's occupants cared for what they would be saying. The howling wind provided an odd silence, a blanket of white noise that was both frightening and relaxing. The constant drone of the gusts reminded the Imperial of the whirring gears one often finds in Dwemer ruins, the rhythmic rumble had lulled Reman off to sleep a number of times.
It was in this relaxed state that the lycan began to think about his skillful deceit of the ponies, nothing malicious, just his way of getting Glade alone. Despite how things went, sex hadn't been Reman's intention, he had genuinely desired to ease his pack-mate's worries, but either way, the mare was at ease the following morning. But, that paled in comparison to Reman's true guile, for, rather than sending the ponies on a useless scavenger hunt, the Imperial had made certain that he could use some of the items he had requested.
Phinis Gestor, of the College, had taught Reman much about the art of Conjuration, including the use of summoning circles. Despite their use being banned by the Mages Guild shortly after the Oblivion Crisis, the circles were an important part in many summoning rituals and spells, if a bit tedious to prepare. The process was very long and drawn out, but saved an incredible amount of magicka in the long run, putting energy into the runes is much cheaper than actively casting. However, they couldn't be placed like the rune of the Destruction School, they had to be painted or carved, made part of the circle.
That was where two of the items came into play. Rarity had secured large jar of ink, and Pinkie had acquired a hammer and chisel. Reman really didn't want to ask why she had them, the party pony just did .
“We're approaching the Middle Plains, ETA twenty seconds.” When had Shining Armor erected a barrier to block the wind? Regardless, despite Reman's lack of familiarity with the acronym, the Imperial guessed that they had twenty seconds before the chariot ride was over. Sure enough, the vehicle began to slow and descend. The carriage touched down gently, strange for something of its weight class. The chariot's occupants exited, hooves and boots crunching the many small rocks scattered across the ground.
The Middle Plains seemed more like a wasteland, there was little grass, and the sun-baked earth was littered with bleached bones. At least the maps were correct about the boulders, they would provide decent cover from any nasty tricks Hircine may use. A small gust of wind reminded Reman of how much he would need it, wearing so little armor. The Imperial had removed his abdominal and lumbar plates, leaving everything from his ribcage to waist exposed. The armor's armguards were likewise removed. The strange alloy wouldn't hold the ink well, if the tests the Imperial had run were any indicator.
Of course, Glade was wearing her entire suit, she wasn't involved in the ritual, so the mare couldn't be used as part of the circle. Besides, her armor was light, she could afford to wear it, her guerrilla-style attack strategy wouldn't be hampered by the miniscule weight.
“Everypony that's not casting or fighting, get in the bunker.” They built a bunker in a few hours? That was pretty impressive, the earth and cinder block structure looked like it could take a beating before it collapsed. Even then, Reman had no doubt that Shining Armor would put a forcefield around it.
“That's not necessary, we still have quite a while before we're ready.” The Imperial was all ready using a stick to draw in the dirt, the sun-baked clay was perfect for this. It would take at least an hour to draw this, plus several more to chisel the designs onto the rocks, and Reman knew how much it sucked to be stuck inside a cramped space waiting for something to happen. While Shining Armor looked annoyed at the Imperial's suggestion, he said nothing, clearly trying to be the bigger stallion and just let things go.
“I haven't seen a summoning circle in quite some time.” Celestia had wandered to the busy lycan, interested in his use of the forgotten art. While the Princess was aware of Reman's ability to use magic, she did not know the extent, but Glade's report had shed much light on the mystery. Lightning and magical weapons from thin air were hardly easy spells for a Unicorn to cast, but the Imperial hadn't had the slightest difficulty. “It almost takes me back to the days when Starswirl was my apprentice.”
“That so?” Reman could multitask, the shape of the circle's runes was important, nothing fancy, just the words Hircine , Unbound , and Challenge , all written in Daedric script. Only the central ring needed the special characters, everything else was a switching station for magicka, like tumblers falling into place. “I didn't know you had students before Twilight.”
“I've lived a long time, Reman, and seen many things.” The Solar Princess' voice was full of nostalgia, a hint of somber remembrance for those no longer among the living. The Alicorn wore a sad smile, and while her feeling were genuine, there was more on the Princess' mind at the moment. “I must ask, are summoning circles in common use in your world?”
“No, in fact, it was illegal for the longest time.” Smalltalk was a wonderful way to take his mind off of things. Reman had finished with the innermost tier, now he just need to draw the magicka stores. The light blue glow of raw magical energy enveloped the pointed bone that was used to scratch the runes into the sun-baked soil. Though neither the Princess nor lycan saw it, Twilight Sparkle gasped slightly. “I think your current student is a little surprised by my magic.”
“You heard that, too?” Celestia looked impressed, not many others possessed her hearing.
“You'd be amazed at the things I pick up.” Reman gave a cocky smile. When he returned to his work, the Imperial was amazed to find that this portion was complete. All that was left was to paint himself and chisel runes into the boulders inside the circle. Reman had only been working for about forty-five minutes, at his best guess. “Princess, could you bring me the jar of ink, please?”
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@
Progress was slow, but steady. After a grand total of eight hours, Reman had successfully etched the proper runes into the many boulders within the circle's area. It was mid-afternoon and hot, but the ritual was ready to go. It wouldn't be wise to challenge Hircine at this hour, the battle would likely carry into the night, so everyone settled on the morning as the perfect time. Most of the party were seated around a campfire, enjoying supper, while a squadron of guardsponies were keeping watch.
It was needless to say that the food being served was vegetarian, which was almost useless to Reman. It was no surprise that the lycan had excused himself to hunt in the forest, however, nopony expected Glade to accompany him. The two weren't gone long, just under an hour, and they sat down like nothing was out of the ordinary. Rarity couldn't help but notice a small smear of blood on Glade's lips, similar stains were on Reman's hands, only now did the white Unicorn realize that she was sitting next to a killer.
“So, what do you do for a living?” Cadence was trying to be nice, the Imperial felt it was entirely unnecessary, but the look Celestia gave him said otherwise.
“Depends on what work comes my way.” The man only spoke between mouthfuls of the vegetable soup he'd dipped from the communal pot. For an omnivore that mostly ate meat, Reman found it to be oddly enjoyable.
“What about the work you do the most, then?” The pink Alicorn smiled, if only because the Imperial wasn't being hostile to her. Shining Armor still didn't like Reman, but that couldn't be helped.
“If I'm not scouring ruins for treasure, then I'm probably doing a little work for the Dark Brotherhood.” Reman grinned as he took sip from a canteen, though the reason for his positivity was unknown to the ponies. The Imperial wasn't lying, he truly had connections within the shadowy group, and regularly completed contracts for them, if only for the money.
“What's the Dark Brotherhood? The name sounds a bit morbid.” Celestia had no idea how right she was, but Reman wasn't about to tell her. While the Five Tenets were no longer in use, and he wasn't technically a full member, the Imperial wasn't about to give out any information that he didn't need to.
“They are a group that could use someone of my... specific skills.” Reman wiggled his brow at the Solar Princess, sending a silent message, complete with its own implications. At that moment, Celestia realized that the Brother was likely a group of hired killers. Was this seriously the lycan she had set free from the dungeons?
“I think it's best if we let the subject lie, shall we?”
For once, Reman found the Solar Princess to be completely agreeable.
Either Brave, or Very Stupid
The twilight before dawn always held a special importance to Reman, but nothing philosophical or symbolic. Really, it just meant that he could start moving again, most of Nirn's predators were nocturnal. Well, the ones that could kill a lycan were, anyway. An internal clock told the Imperial to wake up, he had rested enough, despite having only received a few hours of sleep. It didn't matter the he actually felt well rested, Reman was having a very enjoyable dream.
There was no reasoning with his circadian rhythm, so Reman was left without any option but surrender, but upon sitting up, the Imperial was given a wonderful surprise. Summer Glade rested her sleeping head on his chest, her left legs squeezing him closer. The darkness made it difficult to see very far, and the fire did little to help, so it was unlikely that any of the others were able to see the lycans. It was easy to slip away from the mare's grasp, though she seemed thoroughly disheartened at Reman's actions, she stayed asleep.
As quietly as he could, the Imperial began to redress,however, putting on armor is hardly quiet. Despite the noise, the ponies stayed in blissful unconsciousness, dreaming about pony things, most likely. After donning the platemail, Reman stalked towards the fire, eager for more warmth. Only after reaching the dieing flame did he notice that Luna and Celestia were both awake and going about their morning routines. If they noticed him, the Princesses gave no indication, so Reman calmly sat on a log next to the fire.
For a few moments, all was silent, save for the crackling embers.
“So, today's the big day, huh?” Luna took a seat across from Reman. The Imperial wondered where she found an orange, and why she wasn't sharing. It wasn't that he was hungry, the lycan could easily go a week without eating before he felt anything negative, rather, he wanted a comfort from an earlier time. For a moment, Reman was back in Cyrodiil, on a trip through the forests of the Colovian Highlands.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@
“Reman, remember to aim before you release the arrow.” That was the Imperial's grandfather, Marcus, a veteran of the Great War and member of the Elder Council. The two, along with Reman's brothers, Uriel and Cassius, and his father were hunting. The three boys were well on their way to continuing the family tradition of service in the Legion.
“Yes, sir.” The response was automatic and respectful, as children should be to their elders. The boy released his grip on the string, and tension sent the arrow flying to its mark. The tip embedded itself in the foreleg of a deer, it hadn't possessed enough force to pass through the limb and into the ribs, but it was an improvement over Reman's earlier attempts. The wounded buck shreiked in pain and bolted off, never to be seen again.
“Well, if you didn't kill it, the wolves will.” Looking back, Grandpa's statement could possibly be seen as ironic, all things considered. “But, you need something to eat, right?”
“What?” Reman hadn’t heard the man very well, his voice was distant, like an echo.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@
“I asked if you wanted anything to eat.” Celestia, not Marcus, was standing next to Reman. “You know, food , something for breakfast to start your day. Want anything?”
“Maybe an orange or two, if that isn't too much.” That flashback was strange, Reman had never experienced anything like it. Well, not while he was awake, for his dreams plagued him with memories at nearly every opportunity. The man briefly wondered if the incident had been noticeable, had he just been staring into nothing for a few seconds? A few minutes? If he had, there was no doubt that Celestia had seen it, the Solar Princess was likely nervous for the lycan.
Apparently, the Imperial had been so wrapped in his mind that he hadn't noticed Luna leave for her bedroll. Apparently the Princess of Night was slightly nocturnal, and sleeping this early, she would be wide awake for the ritual later today. The sun still hadn't graced the sky with its light, in fact, this was the darkest Reman had seen Equestria.
“A bit gloomy, isn't it?” The Imperial jumped slightly at Celestia's voice. The Princess was referring to the sky, and perhaps Reman's current expression. Everfree was outside of the ponies' reach, so nature had a true hold on the land and sky, the lycan was reminded of home. “You don't mind if I take this seat, do you?”
“Of course not, you're in charge here, Princess.” Without taking offense at the obvious jab, Celestia sat down on the log, right next to the Imperial. Without a word, the Princess dropped two fat, ripe oranges in the man's lap, and Reman gave a slight vocalization of gratitude before he got to work peeling the first.
Nostalgia hits hard, and was of equal strength to the citrus fruit's smell. The tangy scent took Reman back to Anvil, a brief stop in his quest, just after he had traveled through Hammerfell. Harbor bells, the call of gulls, and the smell of the sea all seemed to tangible, so real . just as quickly as it had arrived, the memory faded.
“I've been meaning to ask you something.” Reman had a feeling that he knew what Celestia was talking about, it likely involved his intentions about Glade. Of course Celestia knew about it, she'd seen the two lycans kissing, and even without context, the gesture was hardly platonic in nature. Reman popped a piece of the fruit into his mouth as Celestia spoke. “It's about Glade.”
“What about her?” It really could have been anything. Reman swallowed the chewed slice and replaced it with another, it had been quite some time since his last citrus fruit.
“What's your opinion of her?” Celestia, the maternal monarch, she truly cared for her subjects. However, she sounded more like a tutor or parent asking a child about a crush. Perhaps this conversation's purpose was to inform Reman about things, rather than Celestia.
“If you have a point, I suggest you get to it before the others wake.” Perhaps this would be some great exchange of culture and ideas. It was more likely, however, to be glaring reminder of the differences between the two worlds.
“I can tell that the two of you are, um, involved .” That wasn't really a secret, if anything, it was blatantly obvious to a few of the ponies in the camp. It seemed that the Princess may have had an ulterior motive for talking to the Imperial. “I'm asking you to be safe, that's it, I'm not going to intrude on your private lives.”
“Be safe?” What was she talking about? Sex between two beings that couldn't contract diseases was about as safe as one could get. Illnesses transmitted by bodily fluids was the main reason prostitutes were rarely visited these days. Even if someone purchased a harlot for the night, or whatever time struck their fancy, it only took a quick trip to an alchemist for potion, and poof , healthy again.
“You know, contraception, birth control, things like that.” This conversation was out of Celestia's comfort zone, despite having had this same talk a number of times in the past. But the Solar Princess never thought she'd be discussing this with an adult, much less one from another plane.
“Excuse me?” What was Celestia talking about? Contraception sounded like conception, so Celestia wanted him to impregnate Glade? Well, they were both adults, and it was common for a man of Reman's age to have a kid by now, but the two had just met.
“Please tell me you two are taking some measures to prevent pregnancy!” It was odd, yelling in a whisper, but Celestia had to get her point across that she was very emotional about this. It was possible that, while the Empire that Reman spoke of was advanced in some ways, its citizens were ignorant of many things essential for Equestrian society.
“I'm fairly certain equines go through estrus in spring.” That was a valid point, estrus was the only time a female animal could get pregnant, so Reman was in the clear.
“On Nirn, then, because we don't.” That statement made the Imperial forget all about his orange, Celestia now had his full attention. “We can reproduce at any time.”
This conversation was about to take a turn for the worse, Reman could just feel it.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
It was just before noon, and all preparations were complete. Reman stood at the edge of the circle, covered in magical runes, with Glade by his side. Behind the two lycans, Twilight, Celestia, Luna, and Cadence were ready to funnel energy into the man. The sun's rays barely peaked through the dark, imposing clouds, a peal of thunder signaled the beginning.
Reman's hands began to glow, as did the markings along his arms, the heat of the spell causing some irritation beneath the ink. Through a series of motions, almost like a dance, the glow spread to more of the many symbols and glyphs covering the Imperial's skin. Just as light began to emit from his eye and mouth, the first set of magicka stores opened. A dull column of light shot into the sky, illuminating the dusky overcast in a pale, blue glow.
That was the signal to begin funneling energy into the Imperial. Four beams of flickering, waving magic shot towards Reman, and the four ponies began fueling the casting. The second store broke, its glow joining the first, turning twilight into day, even though the sun was blotted by the clouds. The lycan put his hands forward, the collected energy fired into the circle's center, filling it with energy as a waterfall fill a lake, slowly but surely. The third store released, turning the day glaringly bright, the ponies in the bunker had to cover their eyes.
That was when the noises started. Sickening, howling screams and shrieks filled the air, emanating from the circle. There was no doubt the cause of them: the tortured souls floating in Oblivion, and they would persist until a connection to the Hunting Grounds was established. There were no Dragonfires warding Equestria from the Daedra, no magical defense preventing communion between the worlds. Here they were, opening the gates to madness and death.
The final store broke, but no glow entered the sky. A void had been created in the circle's center, and was rapidly filling, only time would tell if the ritual was a success. There was emptiness, then nothing, the sensation of a vacuum ended abruptly. They had summoned something, but until the glowing magicka faded, they could not know what, exactly, it was.
There was a lot of dust thrown into the air, and lent no aid to the clearing magics. It took ten minutes, ten long, nervous minutes to even have a blurry outline of the creature they'd summoned. Glade gulped audibly at what she saw, and Reman's response wasn't much better.
A biped, roughly the Imperial's height, stood in the central nexus. A staff or spear was held in one hand, with the other being empty. It was wearing an odd headdress, like a deer or goat head, or maybe that was its head. The figure stepped from the massive, glowing pillar of light, and revealed itself. Reman had never seen something so inconspicuous, but so terrifying.
For there stood Hircine's Aspect of Guile.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
I'll be spending the next week away from home, so I won't be able to work on anything until next Saturday.
You guys can just enjoy waiting until then.
@#@#Bunker@#@#
“That's Hircine?” Dash's voice wasn't one of awe or fear, it held an odd hint of disappointment. The Element of Loyalty had been expecting something... taller. “He looks kinda scrawny.” Actually, the Aspect of Guile was built almost identically to Reman, muscle compacted for speed that didn't sacrifice strength. In fact, both warriors were nearly even in height, but every observer knew that this battle would involve more than brute force.
“Never underestimate somepony in combat.” Princess Celestia's words were a surprise to all who heard them. Something about the Aspect had her on edge, she'd kept an eye on it. “I'm sure that Hircine uses this form for a good reason.”
@#@#Battle@#@#
Few things in any world are as imposing as a manifested Prince, even if the chosen Daedric Aspect represented less than a thousandth of its power. The Imperial unconsciously stepped back, every instinct in his body screaming at him to run! But retreat was not an option here, not if Reman wished to fulfill his promise to Glade, to himself, to Gaston. The lycan tensed, readying himself for conflict.
Either he or Hircine would be dead before it was over and done with.
There were no words spoken between the two, none were needed. Leaving Glade at the edge, Reman charged towards the Daedra, forgetting about his own safety. With silent, instant magic, the Imperial summoned a bound sword, knowing the ephemeral blade would serve him well. Time seemed to slow as Hircine mirrored his hound's assault, and ran as he readied his spear.
He who makes the first move loses.
But he who dares, wins.
The two moved at the same time, the Daedra thrust its spear towards its prey's midsection, and the Imperial slashed at his target's throat. Both dodged the respective attacks, each moving away from the bladed weapons with almost supernatural speed. The engagement was more to gauge each other than to cause injury, and Reman found the Aspect to be a wonderful opponent. But he couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong.
Hircine made the next move, swiping the spear's head at the Imperial's neck, who parried the blow from the vulnerable area. The lycan returned his target's attack tit for tat, taking an opening between the Huntsman's arm and ribs. The midnight halberd blocked the blow with ease, providing evidence of the chasm between the two, Hircine was much faster than Reman, and it was obvious to all who observed. Using that blind speed, the Daedra cracked the spear's pommel against his prey's jaw, resulting in a satisfying impact.
The force sent Reman sprawling on the ground. The Aspect of Guile was faster and stronger than him, this battle just became much more interesting. The lycan righted himself in record time, avoiding a stabbing thrust from the Huntsman's vile weapon, a split-second later and he would have been pinned into the ground beneath him. This would be difficult, Reman had never fought someone who was using a spear or poleaxe, the archaic weapons had been phased out of use shortly after the Nerevarine had stripped the Tribunal of their godhood.
Fighting from a defensive standing wasn't a situation the Imperial was comfortable with, it never had been, and Hircine's incredible speed did nothing to ease his worry. At best, Reman parried the blows and thrusts with his bound sword, at worst, he had to block using the blade's face. After a particularly nasty hit, a crack formed in the ephemeral weapon, the binding magic wouldn't last much longer. The Imperial blinked twice, hoping his meaning would be understood.
Summer Glade launched herself at breakneck speeds, she was only a blur as she slammed her hooves into the Huntsman's spine. The god stumbled long enough for Reman to get a decent shot, jabbing his cracked weapon into its abdomen. With a sound like breaking glass, the bound sword shattered, leaving a pinprick in the Daedra's tough hide. Perhaps the Aspect was highly armored, perhaps the blade was too far gone to cause any serious damage, the Imperial didn't really know. What he did know, however odd it seemed, was that Hircine didn't attack Glade, even after she slammed into him.
Reman's musings were cut short by the Daedra's next attack, a sign that the Imperial should stop thinking about things like that during battle. The Aspect used an uppercut, understanding that there wasn't enough space between the two combatants to properly utilize its spear. Even without the weapon, it hit with enough force to pause Reman's sense of sight for a few seconds. A boot to the ribs followed, then another pommel strike. Why hadn't Hircine moved this quickly earlier? A hand gripping the lycan's head and slamming it into the Daedra's knee gave him the answer.
Hircine had been toying with him.
This was a game to the Huntsman, a sport much like the Arena, but infinitely crueler. The silent Aspect threw the injured man to the ground, maybe this was it, maybe Reman would truly die this time. But the spear didn't meet his flesh, though there was no comfort to be found. A booted foot crashed onto the Imperial's arm, powerful enough to finely crush the durable bones. The pain was too much, too intense to even scream. Instinct told Reman to run, and he trusted the gut feeling, taking off into the maze of boulders scattered across the plain.
The quick Daedra followed him step for step, its form tireless, its mission certain, its resolve absolute. Guile is another word for cleverness, cunning, and this Aspect represented it when it merely injured Reman rather than kill him, despite having ample opportunity. It was clever, but the Imperial was smart, he had a plan, and a useless arm wasn't even a setback. He only had to find a magicka store that hadn't opened during the ritual. A kick from his hunter sent him flying into one such boulder, it was time for the tables to turn,
Reman fought like a wounded animal, cornered by a hunter, sending kicks and punches with wild neglect. The Imperial looked frightened beyond all belief, back against stone with nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. None of his blows landed with enough force to even give Hircine pause, a fact that seemed to cause more fear than anything else.
If the masked Aspect could smile, it would be grinning ear to ear right now.
The Daedra launched a knee into Reman's gut, and followed it stomp on his foot. A flurry of attacks slammed into the Imperial's torso, cracking bones and bruising organs. Just as the lycan coughed, a bit of blood coloring the spittle, the Aspect readied its spear for a final strike. Faster than the eye could follow, the bladed weapon stabbed into... stone?
Reman had anticipated the attack, and began moving away even before the spear came down. Now it was his turn to smile, because he had Hircine right he needed. An electrified punch directly to the heart, the chain attack started to work its magic. The Imperial gabbed the Daedra's head and slammed it into the stone magicka store, further stunning the powerful being. Reman bit the Aspect's shoulder, his sharp teeth effortlessly slipping through the tough hide, and answering the earlier question about Hircine's armor. Using powerful suction, the lycan filled his mouth with Daedric blood, he unlatched from the joint and spit the foul-tasting liquid into the Aspect's face.
He slipped around the Daedra, kicking it against the runed boulder. With a final lightning bolt against the stone surface, the chain reaction was initiated. Reman ran like a bat out of hell, eager to escape what he knew was coming.
@#@#Bunker@#@#
“I can't watch!” Fluttershy was huddled in a corner, her eyes closed, her ears covered. She couldn't stomach the violence, not on this scale, and not against somepony she knew.
“Darling, you don't have to see if you don't want to.” Rarity was having difficulties as well. The fashionable Unicorn wash deeply worried for the two lycans, and for reasons beyond what most would have noticed. Years of paying attention to tiny details had given the Element of Generosity a keen eye, and she saw something very unusual. It may have been because it had bigger things to worry about, but the Aspect of Guile hadn't payed any attention to Glade, despite the lycan Pegasus being the bigger threat at the time. Something was going on, and Rarity wanted to find out what it was.
“Perhaps we should move back so-” Celestia was cut off by a massive vibration running beneath her hooves. On reflex, the Princess turned her head to the battlefield, and was awestruck by what she beheld. A massive sphere of blue energy bloomed from near the edge of the forest, a silent explosion caused by a rupturing magicka store. That was why Reman had created so many redundant reservoirs before the ritual. But the blast isn't what caught her eye, it was the black speck that was quickly growing in size.
@#@#Battle@#@#
A bipedal creature whipped through the air, turning end over end as it approached. It seemed that the Imperial had underestimated the power he'd locked in the runed boulders before. Reman skidded to a halt just in front of the bunker, injuries of all sorts scattered across his battered body. He was taking shallow, ragged breaths, but at least he was alive.
Slow, steady footsteps echoed from beyond the explosion's dust cloud, booted feet crunching gravel underfoot. Hircine's Aspect of Guile limped from the obscuring haze, spear clutched in a bleeding hand, one of its legs seemed to have been badly burned.
“You've done well, little mortal.” The formerly stoic Aspect spoke in a chilling voice, both mocking and sincere. It took a few more slow, limping steps towards the downed man. “I think a reward is in order.” The Daedra craned the spear around, ready for a slicing motion.
“Like hell you are!” Glade launched herself from behind a boulder, eager to protect her alpha. She passed through the Aspect like a rock through fog.
“Relax, I'm only giving him what he has searched for.” The Huntsman laughed, a cruel joke only he understood. Reman had searched for a cure ever since he had been infected. But why would Hircine cure him now, when he was so close to death? Would it not be easier to just kill him and collect his soul? The Aspect brought a spear down, slicing through the Imperial like a sword through still water.
Pain beyond anything Reman had ever felt lanced through his body. There was no cut, no scrape, no physical injury of any kind present on his body, no, the spear had cut deeper than his mortal shell. Red, wavering mist billowed from his mouth, before it began to take shape at the Aspect's side. A spectral wolf sat next to its creator, Reman's beast blood given form, its tongue lolled from its mouth, panting as though it was tired.
“If you'll excuse me, I have a Pegasus to kill.” The Daedra laughed and began walking away, leaving Reman's weakening body to bleed out. The Imperial's eyes caught his pack-mate's, a silent message was conveyed between them.
Summer Glade obeyed the order, and fled into the forest.
Hircine gave chase.
@#@# @#@#
It didn't know what it was, simply that it was. It knew that it had a purpose, but had no knowledge of what that purpose was. It knew that it couldn't truly die, it did not fear death. It understood pain, and feared it. It loved Creator, and feared him. It loved Master, and feared for him.
Creator had given it to Master, told it to stay with Master, to protect Master. It fulfilled its given duty with righteous dedication, healing Master from any injury he ever received.
But now Master and Creator were fighting, hurting , each other, and it had to choose between the two. It did not like making choices, its mind was not meant for it. The Gilded One gave it thought, gave it reason beyond what it knew. With reason, came devotion to Master, but also a deeper fear.
A fear of the Dark Waters.
It could not die, but the Dark Waters awaited it if Master died. It did not like the Dark Waters, it did not want to go back. Creator would send it back, it did not like Creator, which was bad, because it was like Creator, before the Gilded One made it different . It liked the Gilded One, Master liked the Gilded One, so the Gilded One must have been good.
The Gilded One gave freedom from Creator, freedom for it and Master. If Creator freed Master, he would take it from Master, but the Gilded One gave a solution. He changed it, like rearranging blocks into a different shape, and removed Creator's control. It liked freedom, it knew Master would like freedom, so the choice was clear.
If Master died, Creator would sent it back to the Dark Waters, but it knew choice now, it would decide for itself. The Dark Waters were wrong , they hurt , it didn't like the pain , it didn't want Creator to send it back. It decided that it would not be sent by Creator, it would not be forced into the Dark Waters. But for Master's life, it would gladly return, because it knew Master would understand. Master would be saddened by its death, but Master had much to live for on Nirn, he would forget about it soon enough. Master would be happier without it, and that was good enough for it.
With a smile gracing its features, it did what it had to in order to save Master's life.
@#@#Battle@#@#
Glade's lungs burned, a primal fear forming in her mind as she flew from the hunter. She had broken Reman's rule about transforming, and could feel the bloodlust rising in her very soul as she fled. Her powerful wings carried her faster than the Aspect could follow, but it didn't need to see her to find her.
A black spear appeared from the treetops above her, slicing through powerful flight muscles, and sending the transformed mare crashing to the ground. Glade trued to right herself, but a hand on her face stopped her.
“I never intended for a native to be infected, but Sanguine must have thought it would be fun to drop Reman at a social gathering.” The Aspect's thumb stroked her cheek, a gesture meant to alleviate her fears. “I regret that you had to get involved in this, I truly do.”
“Then why do any of this?” Glade's large eyes gazed into the holes of Hircine's mask, trying to find some semblance of a face or compassion in the hollow visage. There was none to be found.
“Because it is my joy to hunt.” The answer was simple, short, and given as absolute truth. Glade had never been so terrified in her life, even when she had attacked Reman at the Festival. The lycan mare felt something cold pressed against her neck, a knife meant to end her life and begin her service to the Huntsman. “I'm sorry, but it has to be done.”
Glade waited for the blade to slice her throat, but was pleasantly surprised that it didn't. Something stayed the Huntsman's hand, something that chilled all who heard it to their very core. A bellowing, booming voice from the plains.
“Hircine!”
“Hircine!” The voice was booming, unnatural, and full of anger. Yet there was a quality that could only be described as human present within it. For a moment, Glade wondered if another Daedra had made its way to Equestria, but she quickly dismissed the notion. A smile spread across her face as she realized what was happening.
“I'd watch out if I were you.” The lycan mare laughed in the Aspect's masked face, she understood the situation. Her chances of survival just skyrocketed with this development, and she was going to milk it for all it was worth. The Daedra retracted its blade from the mare's throat, this wasn't part of its plan, whatever was roaring, it definitely didn't belong in Oblivion or Equestria.
“What is that?” It helped that Hircine understood what lycans said, a psychic bond with the hounds, as it were, but Glade wouldn't betray the knowledge she held. “The Princess wouldn't involve herself, would she?” The Daedra took on a defensive stance, preparing for any assault he perceived possible from the royal ponies. But there was something... familiar about that voice, it wasn't the one typically used in Equestria, even by those familiar with the secrets of the Royal Canterlot Voice. “If anyone interferes, I'll use my full power on this bitch.”
“Good thing I've been in from the start.” The Daedra's head darted back, towards Glade. By the context, the voice's owner implied that he was Reman, but Hircine didn't see the Imperial, no, there wasn't a human standing there at all.
“How did you even manage this?” The Aspect's voice was one of astonishment, in all of his years, the Prince had never seen something so amazing, so profound. There, clad in dark fur, hulking muscle, and razor-sharp teeth, stood Reman in his transformed state. “I ripped lycanthropy right out of you, you were supposed to die back there.”
“I thought Daedra were omnipotent, all knowing, glad to see that I was wrong.” The werewolf started circling the hunter, keeping an eye on his prey at all times. On some primal level, Reman loved this type of situation, the rush of trapping his quarry was intoxicating. “But I suppose that theory was proven wrong by that box.”
“Lycanthropy can only be transferred, or given by me.” Hircine seemed to be at the end of his rope on this. Daedric Princes, despite popular belief, were not omnipotent, there were several holes in their hoard of knowledge, and the Huntsman was no exception. “It can't just happen on its own.” The Aspect's stance turned from defensive, to defiant, he would not accept this outrage from one of his. “How did you break the rules?”
“I didn't break them, Hircine, I didn't have to.” A grin spread across Reman's monstrous features, undoubtedly pleased with himself. “Blame the Gilded One for messing with your favorite toy.”
The changed Imperial had always expected the Daedra to retain some level of civility, however, he was proven wrong. Hircine, for his calm disposition and slow, deliberate way of things, had a very short temper when things didn't go his way. Like right now, for example, the Huntsman didn't like being toyed with, and it showed even through the Prince's mask. With an inarticulate scream of rage, the Aspect of Guile threw itself at the defiler.
Reman dodged the black spear with expert speed, effortlessly evading the bladed tip. A clawed slash was the Imperial's response, and it was well received. If a broken bound sword made a pinprick, then five lycan claws made a decent cut. The Aspect grabbed Reman massive arm, using the lycan's momentum to its advantage, and swung its foot into the Imperial's mouth. Despite his immortal nature, Hircine was a true hunter, and took the slashing injury because it left his prey's face wide open, clever and risky.
Glade didn't like that little kick, not one bit. In defense of her alpha, she swiped at the hunter's back, her wings providing extra speed, and her strange claws tore through flesh like fine paper. Autonomous response force the Huntsman to face the attacking mare, creating a blindspot that anyone would happily exploit. Only too late did Hircine realize his mistake, and by the time he had righted it, a massive, clawed hand was all ready inbound, with the Daedra's face marked as the destination. Even though it managed to bring the spear around to block, the talons still stung into the flesh beneath its headdress, tearing off a sizable chunk of the tribal mask.
A flash of golden skin gave Reman pause, just long enough for the spear's pommel to smash into his cheekbone. Blossoming pain signaled the broken facial bone, but there was something odd about the strange Aspect's body, the Imperial knew that Daedra manifest however they please, but something just struck him as odd about that skin color. A quick slash came across the lycan's chest, burning far worse than silver ever hoped to. Reman barely had time to react before another cut came, then another, each time brought more pain than the previous.
Once again, Glade pulled her alpha's ass out of the fire. Using her incredible speed, she knocked the spear away from the Imperial, while the blade was in a downward arc, with the combo broken, it was a simple matter of countering. Teamwork only werewolves were capable of came into play, Glade flew behind the Aspect's legs, cutting into the muscles and tendons. Two massive hands gripped the side of the Daedra's head, Reman's great jaws spread wide, ready to crush the Huntsman's skull. The agile Aspect of Guile reared its head back before the Imperial could snap his mouth shut, but it failed to save the headdress.
The Imperial's widened as he beheld the unmasked Daedra, he had certainly spent enough time reading ancient tomes to understand what he was seeing. Short, fair hair, golden skin, green eyes, angular features, unusual build for a Daedric creature, but well within believability. But those weren't the features Reman was concerned about, the ears drew his attention like a spotlight. They were pointed, about the same length as a Dunmer's but the skin tone made it all wrong, but that didn't matter, the lycan knew where these attributes were present in history, in a race that had been long dead. Two realizations struck the man as he pondered what he saw.
Hircine was once mortal, but replaced the original Huntsman thousands of years ago, perhaps before humans even reached Tamriel from Atmora. But that wasn't the most incredible revelation, not by a long shot.
Hircine was a Dwemer before he Ascended.
@#@#Bunker@#@#
“What is that?” This creature appeared stranger to Twilight than Reman had originally been. It looked like a human, but some things about it were just wrong. Pointy ears and angular features weren't that unusual, but the skin tone just made it look odd.
“I think that's an elf of some sort.” Everypony looked at Luna, who held a quizzical and studious expression. They knew about her use of Mind's Eye on the lycan, but not what she had learned. “They're like humans, but they live longer.”
“But how many birthday parties do humans have?” That must have been Pinkie's way of asking their usual life expectancy. Despite everything that the Princess of Night had discovered, she had no idea how long humans lived.
“Well, I know that one man Reman knows, Kodlak or some such, is over eighty years old, and he's still doing well.” Luna thought for a moment, trying to find any solid information. “But, he's hardly the norm, from what I can tell.”
@#@#Batlle@#@#
Distraction was the tool of both thieves and hunters, and the Huntsman used it to its full expression. A stout uppercut forced Reman to release the Daedric elf, who followed up with a knee to the groin. Taking advantage of the werewolf's stunned state, Hircine grabbed both sides of Reman's head and pulled, launching the hulking lycan into a nearby tree.
“Bastard!” Glade launched herself at the Daedra's abdomen, she had transformed back into her regular self a few minutes ago, and she was left with only a hoof-full of options about what she could do. The mare slammed her hooves into the relatively soft flesh of the Aspect's stomach and chest, hoping to cause some internal damage. Her attempts were ended by a punch powerful enough to temporarily black out her vision. It would be that moment that would go down in history as the biggest mistake made that fateful day.
There were certain things that one simply did not do to a man from Reman's family.
Laying a curse upon one of the family's number.
Laying one's hands on a lover of a member of the family.
Bringing harm to the family's allies.
Cheating in a duel against a member of the family.
Hircine had done all of that, and more, against Reman, but hurting Glade was the straw that broke the silt-strider's back. The lycan saw red when he heard the mare's small shriek, and something inside him snapped . The Huntsman no longer held control over the Imperial's lycanthropy, he couldn't force the man to return to his normal form.
In layman's terms: Hircine was a dead Daedra walking.
A flurry of claws reached forth to claim the hunter's blood, eagerness matched only by rage. For every swipe, there was a dodge, for every jab, a parry, and there didn't seem to be a break in the pattern. For such a scrawny thing, the Aspect of Guile was incredibly strong, easily matching Reman's unnatural power, pound for pound.
“Humor me, mortal, who is this Gilded One you spoke of?” A curious smile played across the Daedric Dwemer's lips. The Prince wondered about the strange being Reman mentioned, and why he had only been referenced once. But Hircine had his ideas.
“Ask around Oblivion, I'm sure you'll find your answer.” Reman planted a clawed hindpaw in the hunter's chest, sending him back about seven feet. Plenty of breathing room for what he needed. With a brief thought, a slight tug on his mind, the Imperial changed back into his human self. There was no bone-shifting, no pain, no noticeable change, save the obvious. The man's form flickered, a wave seemed to pass over him as he reverted to his regular self, quite similar to Zenammu's method.
“Why sacrifice that much strength?” Hircine wiped some blood off his mouth, one of Reman's attacks had knocked a tooth out, impressive.
“I want to use my own, two hands for this.” The two circled one another, though the Imperial took care to stay between the Huntsman and Glade at all times. It seemed the Prince took notice of this behavior, and decided to pick at some nerves.
“Oh, what's this? Has the prideful Imperial forgotten about his engagement?” The Daedric Dwemer chuckled, the lycan was easy to mess with, especially when it came to things involving his family or loved ones.
“Shut up.” Reman knew what Hircine was up to, it was an old trick and tradition in Cyrodiil. It dated back to the time of Saint Alessia, the Slave Queen who led the rebellion against the ancient Ayleids. When two enemies, both powerful, are at an impasse or resting during a battle, they must engage in taunting or polite conversation. “Is now really the time for smalltalk?”
“I'm just wondering, you've never done anything like this before.” The Prince had a point, he'd been keeping tabs in the lycan as he progressed through Tamriel, and Reman hadn't so much as visited a whore, much less pursued romantic interests. “I was worried you were getting lonely.”
“Leave it to a Daedra to be too stupid to understand the concept of companionship, I didn't need a lover.” The Imperial lunged and jabbed at the Huntsman, who dodged and swung in response. The two ceased actually fighting, adopting for the use of sparring techniques, instead. The blows could still do considerable harm, but they were much slower than they would be in a regular melee.
“We think the same of the mortal world, Reman.” Daedra found mortals to be incredibly confusing, just as much as mortals found the Daedra to be. “Nice kick.” Hircine caught the offending leg under his arm, and used the limb as a guide rail to run into the Imperial's front. The Huntsman launched a right hook against the man's face, only to be blocked and tossed to the ground. As the Aspect righted itself, Reman stomped on its foot and gave an uppercut, wrapped his arm around the Daedra's head, and flipped it over his shoulder.
“Most Conjuration spells would have ended quite a while ago.” The Imperial had taken to the classic bob and weave, a decent strategy for dodging fists. During moments like this, thinking was easy, the origin of this combat tradition of speaking to one's enemy may have begun as a way to give both sides a chance to plan ahead.
“Well, this body will only unsummon itself if it gets damaged too severely, or you die.” That was quite the loophole, even if Hircine won, his Aspect was sent back to Oblivion. But, the revelation gave Reman an idea, which was just crazy enough to work. All he had to do was keep the Daedra distracted. “Even a Banish Daedra spell would be useless against this enchantment.”
With a smile, Reman slammed a fist into the Aspect's kidney, then its throat, before finally punching Hircine's sternum. It was time to put his plan into action, but he needed to get back to the plains, first. The Imperial bolted towards the summoning circle, eager to finish the fight. He had a ten second head start, at best, he didn't have any extra time at worst. Not that he needed it, but some breathing room would be appreciated.
Alteration magic had a spell, Equilibrium , which converted the caster's life force into magicka. But Reman didn't need the extra energy, he needed power for this plan, lots of power. As Hircine said, a regular Banish Daedra spell would be useless, but Conjurer's Folly would suffice, even at its high cost.
The plains were in view, now, but footsteps indicated that the Huntsman was in hot pursuit. The spear's blade nicked at the Imperial's legs, trying to cripple the running man before he could reach the magicka-filled boulders. Reman spun around a runed stone, dodging the weapon that so zealously sought his blood. There was no fear in the Imperial's mind, there was no room for it. For the first time in four years, the end was in sight, and Reman was reminded of an old saying, in untranslated Cyrodiilic.
Carpe Diem.
The Imperial would seize this day, and he would be the victor. He dared he would come out on top, and Kvatch was in sight. Reman's smile was genuine, one usually found on a wise, old man's face, after he had found some wonderful meaning in his life. All he had to do was dodge the hunter's spear a little longer.
“I thought you wanted this battle. Why are you running?” With each syllable came another slash or thrust, though the blade never touched the Imperial's skin. Reman had no doubt that Hircine knew what he was planning, not that he cared.
The lycan hit the dirt and swung his feet around, taking out his opponent's legs. Reman rolled to the side to avoid the falling spear, before throwing himself onto the Huntsman, employing an old Imperial fighting technique. Of course, it only consisted of holding one's enemy down while repeatedly punching him or her in the face until he or she goes limp. Even when in human form, Reman had quite the arm, and each hit bought a split-second to attack again before Hircine could retaliate. As it turned out, one doesn't need to use their upper body to remove an attacker from their torso.
Using its superior flexibility, the Aspect slammed its foot into the back of Reman's head. The force caused the Imperial to falter for a moment, allowing Hircine the chance to throw him off. The two combatants rolled around on the ground, grappling without actively attacking each other. The lycan cracked his skull against the Daedra's, having exhausted every other option, it seemed like a wonderful idea. The Ascended Dwarf yelped at the impact, Reman probably broke Hircine's nose.
@#@#Bunker@#@#
“Where's Glade?” Rarity's keen eyes were scanning for any sign of the lycan mare. The Pegasus had flown away, Hircine followed, then that wolf melted into Reman, and then he ran after the Huntsman. The Element of Generosity had heard the lycanthropic pony yelp, then... nothing.
“You don't think she's... ?” Rainbow Dash's voice faded before she could say the final word. Everypony was thinking it, but they didn't want to speak of it, for fear of cementing the possibility into fact. Even the two oldest Princesses were worried about the former guardspony, but there was one mare that didn't share their apprehensions
“No, Glade's alive, Reman wouldn't let her die, not as long as he can still fight.” A fire burned in Fluttershy's eyes, a stark transformation from her usually timid self. Passion wasn't something associated with the shy Element, but that judgment couldn't be further from the truth.
“I hope you're right, I really do.” Shining Armor might not have liked Reman, but Glade was one of his, they had a certain kinship.
@#@#Battle@#@#
Sparks erupted from the clashing weapons. The Imperial's bound sword, and Hircine's spear, the two fighters appeared to be on even ground. Knocking the stabbing blade aside, Reman slashed across the hunter's chest, and was rewarded with the noxious smell of Daedric blood. The scent awakened something primal within the Imperial, a lust for battle that was unheard of in this modern age. Using strength he hadn't possessed before, Reman bashed the Huntsman's weapon away, intent on having his fill of combat.
With wild abandon, the lycan mercilessly slashed and hacked at the Daedra's tough hide, splitting the armored flesh with relative ease. Each cut spilled more blood, encouraging more attacks, and further clouding the man's thoughts. Utilizing the distraction, Hircine smashed the spear's pommel against the Imperial's throat. A choked gasp showed just how much pain Reman was in, his windpipe bruised and nearly crushed. The Aspect kicked the lycan's chest, knocking him back, though he only stumbled a few feet.
“I thought you were an Imperial, not an Orc.” The Ascendant Dwemer grinned at the coughing man, poking fun at the strange rush of power. In truth, the outburst had been wholly unexpected, it was curiously similar to the Adrenaline Rush ability the Redguards used, fascinating.
“I'm getting tired of your mouth.” Reman nothing more, and focused solely on killing the Aspect that stood before him. On some level, the man enjoyed fighting the Daedra, it was his joy, he only hoped he didn't get too happy. But, all good things must come to an end, and this battle was dragging on, better to finish things now.
The Imperial began gathering ever ounce of magicka he had, which was no small amount. There were no runes drawn on him, no words spoken, but magic was being wrought. Pale, blue flames erupted on Reman's arms, chest, neck, and face, making him appear more like a fiery specter than a man. Hircine felt the air crackle with energy, the Prince hadn't followed the Imperial's studies into the arcane arts, but the Daedra was well aware of this spell's power. Despite the lack of familiarity with mortal magic, the Huntsman could safely assume that touching the Imperial was counterproductive at the moment.
With a roar that gave Hircine pause, Reman launched himself at the hunter. The lycan found extra speed somewhere, but the Daedra had no idea of the origin, perhaps he was truly serious. The Imperial's hands burned the Aspect's skin on contact, and the searing flames seemed to have a similar effect on Reman. There was a quick jab, a stomp on a calf, and Hircine was slammed against a boulder. The Imperial raised his sword, intent on stabbing his prey to the etched stone.
As one weapon descended, its counterpart rose, and the hunter's spear penetrated the lycan's abdomen. Reman's bound sword pierced Hircine's hide, nailing the Daedra to the magicka store. Placing a palm against the Huntsman's chest, and forced energy through the two nexuses. Magicka flowing through the sword would serve as a key, and what flowed into the Daedra, a catalyst. The store's membrane ruptured, blasting magicka into Reman's inner reservoir, before being converted into fuel for the spell.
Hircine howled and cursed in anger, this was not the set course of events. The Daedra tried to retaliate, but the Aspect's body refused to move, its summoner had commanded it to be still. Pain that was felt throughout the Hunting Grounds lanced through the Aspect, and Hircine beyond, severing and binding the Daedra's power to Equestria. The magicka store only served to worsen the agony, to fan the magical flames that burned the Prince's very core. There was a limit placed on the Aspect of Guile's power, it was set in stone, and Reman overwhelmed it.
Just as the spell resolved and completed, both the Imperial's and the Huntsman's vision whited out, ending their pain, for a time. But Reman would awaken, and Hircine would regain control of the Aspect, and things would be made clear at that time. The lycan would pay for the mistakes he had made in Equestria, decisions that would have resounding effects throughout his life.
But, in the end, that is the Conjurer's Folly.
@#@#@#@#@#@#@#@#
I'm aware that there may be a number of questions that are unanswered, and the epilogue will address as many of them as I can make it.
The realms of existence are many, all equal and connected. From Heaven, to Valhalla, to even the lowest plane of Oblivion, all are woven together in a web of flowing energy and life, even if some scholars believe otherwise. As they are all connected, so too, may things travel between realms using said connections, and they may be as mundane as a stray thought, to as unique and awe-inspiring as a comet. Of course, it takes very special conditions for an object to traverse the area between realms, those conditions being the 'alignment' between planes, and a large amount of energy being expended.
@@##@@##@@##@@
Hircine sat upon his throne, unsatisfied with his Great Hunt. His prey had taken its own life, and Hircine's fun with it. Never before had this happened, and for once in his life, the Huntsman was at a loss. On one hand, he considered hosting another Hunt, on the other, he was curious to try the methods of another Prince for entertainment, hunting again would promised certain relief, but he held doubts about its ability to satisfy him. He resolved to make his decision later, he more pressing matters at hand.
Every generation, the Daedric Princes hold a meeting in Sanguine's grand dining hall. This meeting serves almost no purpose, other than conversation and planning amongst themselves to coordinate events within or between their respective circles of government or influence. The only thing this meeting has ever accomplished was use a few days of the Princes' time, though Sanguine did enjoy the refreshments the Princes brought with them.
Said Prince of Debauchery rose to welcome the other Princes. “Ah, arriving as a group I see, always nice to see party guests planning ahead,” He gave with mirthful sarcasm. “But, it's never good to see you Dagon, you tend to kill the mood.” A round of laughter filled the room, most mortals never imagined the Princes ever joking with one another.
“But it is nice to see you without a whore under each arm, Sanguine.” Dagon took jokes in stride. “But enough humor, I believe we all have something important to discuss.” Every Prince nodded, knowing exactly what the Prince of Destruction was referring to: Alduin the World Eater. Such a threat as him would prove the end of them all.
“I don't see why you're worried,” Azura, Prince of Dawn and Dusk, began “I have seen the mortal, born of Akatosh's Dragon Blood, who will slay him.” Just like that, every Prince relaxed a little bit, Azura had the gift of prophesy, and if she saw no threat, the other Princes took her word for it. “In fact, I believe you're familiar with this one, Dagon, concerning your razor?”
“Little bastard stabbed me in the back.”
“I think I'm starting to like this mortal.” The Prince of Deceit, Boethiah, chimed in.
The conversation didn't continue on its intended path for much longer, leaving the Princes to do as they please for the time being. Hircine was enjoying a glass of Sanguine's favorite wine and having a pleasant chat with Azura about the goings on of Nirn.
“The Dragonborn shows promise, I haven't seen such potential since Dagon tried to take Tamriel.” Azura and Hircine both had a slight smile as they recalled the Champion. “I'm certain he'll fair well for himself in the trying time ahead of him.”
“I certainly hope so, the World-Eater is bad news for all of us. Definitely in regards to our fun with mortals, and I do so love their hedonistic worship.” Sanguine made himself an uninvited addition to the Prince's conversation. “And speaking of exploits, what have the two of you been up to?” Sanguine's overenthusiastic question didn't sit well with Hircine, he knew just where Sanguine was taking this.
Azura's answer was straight to the point: a Dunmer had recovered her Star and cleansed it of the soul occupying it. “What of yourself, Hircine?” She asked, she already picked up on his bad mood, and seemed genuinely concerned. “I'm certain it was enjoyable.”
“Yes, Huntsman, do tell.” Sanguine grinned as he leaned in.”I'm just dying to hear.”
Hircine's mouth curled in displeasure, a look that rarely appeared on his face. “An Imperial thought it would be clever to spear himself during my Hunt, denying me the pleasure. If he wasn't dead, I'd kill him for his treachery.” It wasn't often the Huntsman was angry, agitated, yes, but not angry. “Come to laugh at my failure, Sanguine? To insult my skill at my namesake? Nothing you could say would be worse than what I've put myself through.” Hircine wasn't angry, no, he was pissed.
“No need to pounce, Huntsman, I'm not here to rub it in.” The Prince of Debauchery gave a small purr. “I'm here to help, and I know just the thing to cheer you up.” He pulled up a seat, “Have you ever considered letting one your hounds loose in different world? Sheogorath did once, Discord, I think the little monster's name was.”
“Just what would he be hunting? Is there worthy prey?” Hircine found the prospect interesting, Sanguine decided to wedge his foot in the metaphorical doorway.
“Oh, wondrous things: manticores, dragons, giant bears, I also know this world has an incredible number of mages, fine hunting, wouldn't you say?” Sanguine's grin couldn't have gotten any larger. “The arrangements can be made now, the realm is the closest to Nirn it has been in a millennium.”
Hircine pondered this for a moment. But in truth, he was sold the moment Sanguine mentioned the dragons. Only two words further were spoken between the two Princes.
“Do it.”
I got this done early and decided to put it up now because I'm probably not going to make my usual Sunday update deadline. NeverTardy.jpg
@#@#@#@#@
Sitting up proved to be difficult. Apparently, the doctors had used a paralytic on him when they misinterpreted his transformation. The drug's effects were annoying, but harmless, and wore off quickly. Reman was surprised he hadn't burned through it it a few minutes. Upon standing, the Imperial noticed the room seemed a little drafty.
Thankfully, Princess Celestia levitated a pair of pants from her saddlebag, she must have realized being naked was considered indecent in his culture. The look she gave the Imperial, however, told him that it was probably because most ponies only came up to his waist, which would have made it awkward if he ever bumped into one.
“Why did your healers stitch my wounds closed?” They didn't look that bad, Reman had certainly taken worse.
“A precaution, we wouldn't want an infection setting up, would we?” Celestia must have tried to play parent to her subjects. “Besides, we don't get injuries like that very often, I didn't want to deny them the unique experience.” They had experimented on him, Reman would have been furious, had he not noticed a distinct lack of surgical scars. Reman untied one of the useless stitches, the new holes not even bleeding.
“Whoa, Whoa! What are you doing?” The Princess of Night didn't know why he was reopening his injuries.
“They itch, a lot.” Even as a boy, he hated getting stitches. With all the practiced skill of a surgeon, he removed every offending thread he could reach, which still left his back.
“That seems like an awful lot of trouble for some itch relief.” Luna still didn't understand.
“I can take pain, I've been stabbed, cut, partially hacked up, sometimes all three at once, and didn't complain about it.” Both the Princesses' eyes widened, not really expecting that, and certainly not expecting him to say it with a straight face. “But I can not stand itching ” Reman emphasized the last word, mostly for effect. The Princesses still looked at him with wide eyes, surprise was the likely cause, and eyed his scarred body in a new light. The Alicorn sisters jumped when they heard Reman's stomach growl. “That reminds me, you did mention food earlier, right?” The Imperial wore a sheepish smile.
“Yes, right this way.” Celestia motioned to the wall behind her, with the quick press of a hidden button, a portion slid out from the rest. Reman blinked a few times, that had been perfectly concealed earlier, he would never have found that on his own.
Their pace down the surprisingly empty hallway was fairly slow. Reman very briefly wondered about the staff, he knew he had seen at least one maid, but not a soul now, even the guards seemed absent. The Imperial knew better than to really believe that, though. He knew when he was being watched, usually, and the quiet hoofsteps he heard didn't lend any help to his stalkers. For fun he cast a predatory smile over his shoulder, followed by a small wave. The resulting steps were stammered and the Imperial had so suppress his laughter.
“Here we are.” Luna motioned to a set of tall, mahogany doors. When they opened, Reman was greeted by the sight of a dining hall that put the Blue Palace's to shame. The table could easily seat eighty, not including the ends, and was seemingly carved from a single piece of rosewood. The chairs were finely cushioned and, wait, why did they have chairs? Reman cast a glance to the two ponies with him, neither seemed to have the right physiology for sitting in that manner. “Something wrong?”
“No, nothing at all, Princess.” The response was effortless, he'd lied to royalty before so much, deception was nearly second nature.
“Please, just call me Luna.” The little Princess smiled, “I try to be friendly, so formalities aren't necessary.” The Imperial quirked a brow, humility was a new trick, he considered ceasing his comparison of these Princesses with the ruling class of the Empire. Princess Celestia decided that there had been enough pre-dinner smalltalk.
“So, Mr. Hungry, what sounds good to you?”
@#@#@#@#@#@
As much as Glade tried to sleep, her body wouldn't allow it. She kept rolling around, trying to get comfortable, but each time she came close, something made her snap back to reality. Her muscles were eager to move, her body desired physical activity. Pegasi hate having to stay grounded for any amount of time, her anxiety only compounded by the layer of bandages over her wings. She resigned herself to boredom, allowing her mind to wander.
Of course, her thoughts drifted to recent events, most specifically, her trip through darkness and the mare she'd met. The rational part of her mind wanted to dismiss the dream as just that: a fantasy forged by her sleeping brain. But her gut said otherwise, things just didn't add up. Whoever, or whatever as the case may have been, that she had seen, spoken to, the mare was, Glade had no idea of how to describe her, nor where she could have dreamed her up.
Why had she called Glade 'mortal'? Doing so implied the unknown mare was immortal, but only the Princesses lived forever. How did roses grow where there is no soil? Glade didn't see any in that darkness. The stranger seemed to know what was happening, something Glade certainly didn't, how could she have made her up?
Everything about the mystery mare was strange. Even her Cutie Mark made no sense! Moons were usually associated with magic, a common mistake: stars are with astronomy, and Glade was certain the mare wasn't a Unicorn. The Pegasus thought back, the mare was a Unicorn, no, wait, she was Pegasus, no, an Earth pony! Glade was giving herself a headache, she just couldn't wrap her head around the mystery mare.
Then came the word 'Reman'. Glade didn't know what that was, but the strange mare had used it like a name. Whoever, or whatever, this 'Reman' was, she seemed to know it. Perhaps 'Reman' could shed some light on the situation. Questions with no answers led only to more questions, it seemed.
Glade groaned and rolled onto her stomach, she almost miraculously fell into blissful sleep.
@#@#@#@#@
Celestia didn't bat an eye when Reman requested venison, and then elaborated on what that was. Luna, however was completely blindsided by it, the Imperial had no idea how she missed the sharp teeth. For some reason Reman felt bad about surprising her like that.
“Relax, Luna, it doesn't change anything, it just means I’m a little different.” For once, Reman's words failed to help calm the dark blue mare.
“But you kill animals and... eat them.” The little Princess was shaking slightly, Reman and Celestia both picked up on it. “I can understand when you can't control yourself, but you consciously do that, it's unsettling.” Reman had instilled fear in little pony, he almost smacked himself. He always hated when his little sister got scared. He also remembered the lengths he went to in order to alleviate those fears.
Reman of Cyrodiil, lone adventurer, werewolf, warrior, a man who escaped death more times than he cared to remember, did something he never thought he would ever do again.
He started to sing.
“Our hero, our hero claims a warrior's heart.” The Princesses looked him like he was insane.
“I tell you, I tell you, the Dragonborn comes.”
“With a voice wielding power of the ancient Nord art.”
“Believe, believe, the Dragonborn comes.”
“It's an end to the evil of all Skyrim's foes.”
“Beware, beware, the Dragonborn comes.”
“For the darkness has passed, and the legend yet grows.”
“You'll know, you'll know, the Dragonborn's come.”
The Imperial finished his song, which had just the desired effect: Luna couldn't keep herself from laughing. Celestia was having difficulty not following suit, her hoof raised in front of her mouth to hide her giggling. Like a charm, Reman's horrible singing voice calmed the fears of a younger sibling, for once, it wasn't one of his.
He felt a slight pain in his chest, and for a moment thought he was transforming. That worry was replaced by confusion, but briefly so. While watching the sisters laugh, he was reminded of home, not the Dwemer storehouse, but the farm in Kvatch. Luna's laugh reminded him so much of Arriana's, he discreetly wiped a hidden tear.
“So, I take it you're going to be rational about this?” Reman couldn't help but chuckle a little, the laughter being infectious.
“As long you don't try to take a bite out anypony, then there shouldn't be any trouble.” The Princess was still panting, trying to catch her breath.
“But, that's a no to the deer meat, right?” What could he do, the man was hungry.
“Actually, Reman, we have some in a freezer, we keep it handy for when we have Griffon diplomats visiting.” Princess Celestia was starting to grow on him, not as fast a Luna, but still making good progress. The group finally took their seats, each tired of standing. Reman had barely pulled his chair up to the table when Celestia whispered into his ear. “By the way, I saw that little tear you wiped. It might not mean much, but you looked pretty sad, if there is anything I can do to help, just give the word.”
@#@#@#@#@#@
Summer Glade was greeted by the sweet smell of roses. This place wasn't dark anymore, now appearing to be around noon, if Glade had to guess. She was in front of the same clearing from before, but no mystery pony.
“I hadn't expected a visit so soon, I’m flattered.” Glade almost jumped out of her skin. She whirled around, and there was the mystery mare, a smile, as sweet as the roses that surrounded them, plastered on her face. “Child, do have need of me? It's not as though I dislike you visiting, but you did arrive unannounced.” The maternal mare didn't show any worry, despite her question's phrasing.
“I'm having trouble understanding...” Glade's voice trailed off, but she waved her hoof in an all-encompassing gesture. The strange mare giggled.
“Child, sometimes events and meanings reveal themselves and their meaning mustn't be revealed by another.” The mystery mare smiled. “But, if you must learn, I'll answer one question, so long as the information can't be revealed by somepony else, just so you don't leave emptyhoofed.” Glade seized the opportunity.
“I want to know who you are.”
Better Living Through Stupid Schemes
I've actually been busy this week, which is surprising
Glade wiped the pastry off her face. Reman was grinning like a foal, and it was infectious. As much as the mare wanted to be mad at the Imperial, she couldn't help but find herself laughing along with him. This was the first time she had seen the man with his hair down, so to speak. He looked... young, like the weight of the world wasn't bearing down on him. Glade had only seen him this relaxed in his sleep, and even then he was prepared for an ambush.
“Sorry, it just had to be done.” His shoulders bounced with each syllable, his body still rocked with laughter.
“I told you parties are fun!” Pinkie jumped high enough to reach the Imperial's shoulder. “Especially when they're surprise parties!”
“This isn't my idea of a party, but to each their own, I suppose.” Glade knew what he meant, most parties in Cyrodiil were social gatherings for the nobility. Reman, of course, had found the events boring and tedious. Those parties were part of Glade's lessons on Imperial culture, which were basically useless, because the lycan never acted like those of his homeland.
“I'm surprised you aren't having this at Arcadia.” Glade was making conversation, but was surprised by Reman's response.
“It is bad luck to talk in doorways, come in.” The Imperial beckoned her inside, an odd gesture given previous experiences. Was he acting formal? Regardless, the door was swiftly closed behind her. “Glade, try the punch, from what Pinkie has told me, it's Gummy's favorite.”
“Who is Gummy?” Glade almost wished she hadn't asked. She could tell Reman was going to answer, but he was cut short by a smooth pressure clamping on Glade's hind leg. The lycan mare brought the offending shop tool around. Much to Glade's surprise, it was not a vice, rather, it appeared to be reptile, most likely a crocodile or alligator. The Pegasus had a response for many things, having a reptile clamped on her leg, however, was no amongst them.
“That is Gummy.” Reman felt she understood his answer. Of course, that didn't mean she took it very well, because Glade started shaking her leg around in an attempt to dislodge the tiny alligator.
“GETITOFFGETITOFF!” Reman almost started laughing. Glade was scared of lizards? That was too much for even the battle-hardened Imperial to take.
“Yay! Gummy can fly!” It was amazing that Pinkie shouted that when her pet released his grip, and went soaring into the punchbowl. “Do it again!”
“Why are you so hyperactive all the time?” Reman felt obligated to ask her this, as would many others in his position. Why, and how, she remained in a constant rush was beyond him.
“I have to stay in character, duh .” That... that just made no sense at all.
“I've gotten better answers from a Bosmer that speaks only in incomprehensible gobbledygook.” In truth, Reman accepted her answer, as he had long lost hope of ever understanding Pinkie.
“Have fun!” Pinkie zoomed off without an explanation, did she even need one at this point? The pink party pony left Glade and Reman alone in the crowd, a feeling the Imperial knew all too well. The two lycans made idle chatter while the party died down, and guests began to leave in favor of their planned activities.
“You know, you don't seem the type for social gatherings.” Reman wasn't certain whether her comment was a question or statement.
“You'd be surprised.” Reman sipped some punch, from a different bowl than the one Gummy had taken a been launched into earlier.
“I suppose I shouldn't be.”
“What makes you say that?” Another sip, Glade thought the drink must have been too sweet for him to gulp.
“Wolves are pack animals.” They smiled at the pun, but still, something felt... off about this whole situation, but Glade couldn't put her hoof on it. “You have another reason for this party, don't you?” Reman expression dropped slightly, anyone who was unfamiliar with him wouldn't notice. Something was wrong, very very wrong.
“Was it that obvious?” Reman tone was no longer the happy, joking one he'd used earlier. “You hit the nail on the head.”
“What has you so worried?” Glade was concerned, she could see that he was nervous, dreadfully so, but could not discern the cause. “You're not... considering giving up, are you?” The mare knew how persistent he could be, though she had to take Rose’s word for it, and the possibility of surrender was supposed to be beyond the Imperial.
“What? No, of course not. I'm not backing out of the quest.” To the casual observer, Reman's tone would be comical when paired to his current expression. While he appeared to be happy, all smiles and laughter, he sounded as though he was discussing a funeral, his words hollow and weak.
“What's going on, why are you acting so strangely?” Few things could spook Summer Glade, and her pack-mate's odd behavior was among them.
“I feel like I'm being watched.” That left a lot of room for interpretation.
“Like what, who do think is watching you?” Glade didn't understand his concern, she knew Rose was watching him at all times.
“This morning, I was walking to Sweet Apple Acres to try and buy some rations, and it felt like someone was spying on me.” Glade was starting to piece things together, it wasn't Rose he was feeling, it was somepony else. “Then Pinkie pops out from nowhere, and I think it might have been her, but I keep getting that little itch, and so I think how can I use this to lure out the whoever it is? , and so I threw this charade of a party in hopes of figuring it out, and as you can see, I've failed.”
“That was, by far, the most well-planned, moronic scheme I have ever heard.” Glade was starting to believe Reman had stumbled into his prosperity, rather than using his wits and strength to achieve it. Seriously, who plans that much for something that has no chance of success?
“Well, at least it let me know who wasn't spying on me.” Reman sounded confident, perhaps he was trying to claim a moral victory form this.
“And who does that leave?”
“Most of Ponyville, all of Canterlot, and every resident of some town called Appleoosa.” Where had the Imperial even hear that name?
“You can't figure out where the feeling is coming from?”
“On the contrary, I can.” Reman motioned with one hand, keeping it away from all windows, and pointed to an alley next to Quills and Sofas.
“If you know where they are, why don't you go after them?”
“Because I have the feeling whoever it is wants to take me by surprise.”
“So they'll attack when you're most vulnerable.” Glade followed his lead, and understood why this was a prime location for the a confrontation. Reman was quickly gaining the mare's respect, with the Cakes out of town, and this area being pretty much empty this time of day, the stalker was certain to make their move.
A window opened, and the two lycans prepared themselves for battle.
When Reman woke up, he noticed a distinct, and pleasant, lack of medical technology. Despite the thick gauze wrapped around him, the Imperial managed to sit up, pain lanced through his body. There was a surprising amount of moisture present under the heavy bandages, perhaps some sort of ointment, or Reman's injuries leaking fluids. Even the man's hands were wrapped, with the fingers separated and tenderly cared for, the tips exposed to the open air. Using a single, bandaged digit, the Imperial peaked under the gauze, revealing the wet, regenerating flesh of his arm, he choked back a hiss, the air burned worse than the flames.
“Conjurer's burns, eh?” The lycan whirled his head to the side, and regretted it as the scorched flesh protested against the movement. Sitting in the chair across the room, was Hircine's Aspect of Guile. The Dwemer had a cocky grin showing for the entire world. “Surprised? I am, too.”
“I'd get up and fight you, but these hurt way too much.” Reman coughed, his body was having trouble regenerating the destroyed tissue, burns had that effect on him. “Shouldn't you be back in the Hunting Grounds?”
“I am.” The Daedric Dwemer chuckled at Reman's perplexed expression. “Unlike mortals, we can exist in more than one location at once.” Understanding was established between the two, a welcome relaxation in tension. “But this Aspect of me is stuck in Equestria, permanently.”
“Is that so?” Reman was more than skeptical, a Daedric Prince could do what it wanted. “I really don't see how that's possible.”
“Your binding magic had quite a bit of force behind it.” Hircine acted like that was a decent answer. “And before you even ask, a Prince's power in severely diminished outside of Oblivion or Nirn, even my main consciousness is unable to free me.”
“Something tells me to be wary of your words.” Instinct can be a powerful thing, and Reman trusted his gut. “I can't really believe you, not after you threw the fight at the end.”
“Caught that, didn't you?” The hunter chuckled, mortals were so amusing to manipulate. It was only sweetened when they knew that they were just puppets in a grand show. “I was under the assumption that you would just destroy this body, not bind it.”
“I'm having a difficult time believing that I bound a Daedric Prince to another world.” A flying pig-cow hybrid made more sense than any of this.
“You haven't bound me , only this small part. Think of this body and its power, it is a small fraction of a whole, like a tooth.” The analogy wasn't lost to the Imperial, but it still left him with a few questions. One didn't retain control of a lost tooth, so why did Hircine still rule the Aspect? “Losing that power actually hurt me, I mean the me in Oblivion.”
“How's Glade?” The Imperial couldn't be more apathetic to the Daedra's situation, so long as the mare was okay.
“She's doing just fine, but she's still a lycan.” The Prince reclined in his chair, seemingly unaffected by the news he had just delivered. Things just couldn't go the Imperial's way for long, could they?
“And why the hell haven't you cured her?” The injured lycan sat in an aggressive posture, though he was essentially harmless from here he was.
“She just wished for me to ignore her soul after she dies.” Wait, what? Glade just found a way to keep her powers and go to whatever afterlife ponies went to when they died. “Clever loophole, actually.”
“I can't imagine the Princess is too happy about you being stuck here.” The Ascended Dwemer gave a mirthless laugh in response.
“Actually, she has me on a very short leash.” To emphasize his point, Hircine acted like he was about to punch the Imperial, only for a barrier to block his fist. “See?”
“Yeah.” Reman was silent for a few minutes, allowing the events of the past few days replay in his mind. “Is there a way home for me?”
“That was the first thing I took care of after you lost consciousness.” For all the negative stigma given to the Princes, they knew how to keep a bargain. “But, you'll want to see a few ponies before you go home, the task the Gilded One gave you can wait.”
“Finally figured out who it was, eh?” Reman hadn't really made it difficult, the Emperors wore golden Dragon Armor into battle, and Talos was the god of war and governance, hence Gilded One .
“What was that spell you used to destroy me earlier, anyway?” The Huntsman had never seen anything like it, nor had he ever felt magic that was near its class.
“Conjurer's Folly, it's a powerful spell, but anyone can use it, regardless of skill.” The enchantment didn't even have a magicka cost. “The only drawback is that you lose skills when you cast it, the stronger the target, the more you forget.”
“The conjurer's mistake for summoning something he can't control.” The Dwemer looked like he had learned a deep and mysterious secret. Mages valued their abilities more than life, and forgetting years of experience would truly be torment.“He pays the ultimate price for his arrogance.”
“Exactly.” If someone had told Reman that he would be having a pleasant conversation with Hircine, he would have punched them in the face. They sat without speaking for the longest time, with the Imperial trying to ignore the huge gap in knowledge he felt in his mind.
@#@#@#@#@#
“Reman, I have a proposition for you.” For once, Princess Celestia was using a tone reserved exclusively for business. Of course, she would likely get what she wanted, the Imperial sort of owed her one. “I'm certain that you'll enjoy it.”
“That really depends on what it is, Princess.” The lycan took a moment to scratch his chest, damned skin was itching like crazy. Why did regeneration have to fire off the newly reformed nerves?
“With our worlds bridged, it is likely that Equestria and the Empire will have some form of contact.” Was this going where Reman believed? The answer was undoubtedly to the affirmative. “I need someone who understands how the Empire works, and you just so happen to fit the bill.”
“Never going to happen, Princess.” Reman was not an emissary for anyone, even if he was being payed.
“I think this is a fair trade, considering the damages you've caused.” The Solar Princess wore a triumphant smirk, as though she had some way to win this argument. “Should I list them all?”
“It can't be that much, just let me get to my cache and I can pay you in full.” Despite his low means of living, Reman had quite the hoard of gold and gems stashed away, being able to transmute mineral ores really help. The Imperial made a silent note to relearn that spell soon.
“You're in the hole by a half-million bits.” Reman choked on his own breath.
“I may be swayed to listen to your offer, now.”
@#@#@#@#@#
The palace gardens were a sight to behold, and the image was only enhanced by the glowing portal that now stood amongst the statuary. Reman had seen a number of gates like this, white marble etched with glowing runes. All in all, Hircine kept it from being one of the spewing hellholes that had dotted Tamriel during the Oblivion Crisis. Speaking of the bound Aspect, it was leaning against one of the garden walls, surrounded by a number of Unicorn guards that were ready to incinerate the Daedra. With a motion from Celestia, Hircine moved towards those gathered to wish the Imperial the best.
“Huntsman, I have defeated you in combat, and honor demands that you grant me a single request.” Reman did his best to sound commanding, but he wouldn't use his racial ability at the moment. “Do you accept your defeat, and the contract that you must fulfill?”
“I accept, and ask what you seek as a reward.” Of course, the Huntman knew exactly what the man wanted. One didn't fuse with their lycanthropy and then throw it away like a piece of garbage.
“If you will allow it, I wish for my soul's freedom.” He was exploiting the same loophole that Glade had used. With the amount of knowledge and skill that he had lost, Reman needed every ounce of power that he could lay his hands on. “All you must do, and the task must be simple on your end, is allow my soul to pass to whatever afterlife I have earned, barring the Hunting Grounds.”
“I agree to your terms.” The two extended their hands, a handshake so seal the contract, and bind both parties to their respective ends. “Good luck, mortal, and know that my fellow Princes and I will be watching you.”
“I wouldn't have it any other way, but keep Dagon out of my business, would you? I don't need the Prince my ancestor trounced pestering me.” The two shared a laugh much to the disbelief of the ponies. Without another word, Hircine returned to his spot on the wall, leaving the floor open for Celestia to speak.
“Reman of Cyrodiil, in you brief time here, you have accomplished more than most of my ponies could in their entire lives.” The Solar Princess' voice held a tone of praise, a quality that quickly changed. “You have also managed to cause more damage than any of my subjects, and that is over the course of my rule.” She sounded like she was joking, a mirthful tinge colored her words. “And it is with great pride that I name you my emissary to the Empire, with all the powers and duties that come with the position.”
“It's like an ambassador, but you don't get payed.” It takes skill to ruin a moment as thoroughly as the Princess of Night, and she loved displaying the talent.
“As I was saying,” Celestia cast a stern look to her sister. “You will be responsible for scheduling our first meeting with somepony, sorry, somebody who holds authority in your Empire.”
“I have just the people in mind, Princess.” Celestia looked surprised, Reman certainly hadn't been too keen on the idea earlier.
“And these people would be...?” In truth, the Solar Princess had no idea about who the lycan was referring to, and she likely wouldn't until the meeting. But, it was better to be somewhat prepared, besides, Luna might have learned something about them.
“Jarl Balgruf the Greater, of Whiterun, and Kodlak Whitemane, of the Companions.” Despite knowing absolutely nothing about the two, Celestia nodded her agreement. The monarch took a step back, and allowed for the Elements to say their goodbyes, Glade had all ready said what she needed. It struck the Princess as odd that the mare wanted to send him of with farewells, they would, after all, see him again at the meeting, and any subsequent gatherings.
“Thanks fer savin' mah sister, an' sorry fer attackin' ya like ah did.” Applejack didn'y really say anything that counted as parting words, but the meaning was clear.
“For a light show, that fight was awesome , I want to more when we visit your home.” The cyan Pegasus known as Rainbow Dash high-five'd the Imperial, and was practically bouncing at the prospect of his world.
“Farewell, Reman, you have been the utmost joy to know, and Sweetie Belle owes you her life, you are a gentlecolt of a caliber that is rarely in Equestria.” Rarity was secretly hoping to learn about the fashions and garments that were prevalent in the Empire, having had no real example to work with.
“I can't wait to see you again, there'll be cake and dancing and ice cream and magic and all sorts of stuff!” Pinkie was planning a party all ready, even before the man had left. The bubbling ball of energy was starting to grow on Reman, even though people like this drove him up the wall.
“I, uh, hope that you do just fine with, erm, whatever you do after this.” Fluttershy had stopped stuttering around the Imperial, quite the accomplishment. She had been the one to bandage his burns after the battle, so there was a small bond formed between the two.
“Bye, I hope that's not too forward of me.” Twilight looked a little embarrassed that she hadn't prepared any sort of speech for this moment, so she merely said what she felt. “I can't wait to learn all about Nirn, your magics must be amazing, and your level of science and technology may be unheard of, here!”
After the final words were spoken, and every guest was satisfied, Reman departed for his home. This would begin the long road to ensuring peaceful relations with the Empire and Dominion, and the Imperial only hoped that there wouldn't be a second Great War sparked over the nation of Equestria. With a heavy mind, Reman would start walking to the city of Whiterun, where he would write to his contacts across Skyrim, and ask them to prepare for the worst. If his new friends were going to involve themselves with Nirn, he would be certain that they were safe. However, the biggest threat may not come from anything living on Nirn, or even Oblivion.
For, during the excitement of the day, nobody noticed a certain statue begin to crack.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
23.5 weeks, that's how long this took to make, and I loved every minute of it.
If you wanted one, it's up. Here it is.
Exert Below.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
Princess,
It is my pleasure to inform you that I have made it to Whiterun, after a day and a half of travel. While Jarl Balgruuf owes me a favor, Kodlak will be difficult to sway, given the Companions' rule about staying out of politics. Nevertheless, I will do my best to bring him around, as per our agreement regarding my debt. I'll write again after I have received any news, You will likely hear from me again either this afternoon, or tomorrow morning.
– Reman.
@#@#@#@#@#@#
Personally, I think things like this are kind of obnoxious, but Proto wanted me to put this thing up.
