The Pony: An Unexpected Journeighby Ash_KitsuneChaptersAn Unexpected VisitorAn Unexpected PartyAn Unexpected BeginningAn Unexpected VisitorThe Pony: An Unexpected Journeigh A fanfic by Ash the Kitsune MLP:FIM is Owned by Hasbro, as are any of it's characters. Characters that I make up are owned by moi, of course, and The Hobbit and LotR are (c) Professor J. R. R. Tolkien, without whom none of this would have happened of course... and without whom, I doubt I'd have ever become an avid reader and writer. Thank you, Professor... for everything. Credits for this idea go to the almost insanely talented GalaxyartForever and his crew of voice actors/actresses for his amazing trailer. From this I draw my inspiration to write it... along with The Hobbit of course. ------- CHAPTER ONE: AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR -------- “Uuuuugh, Twiiiiliiiiiight! Do we have to do this?” Rainbow Dash moans in annoyance as she looks at her Egghead Friend. “I know you love reading and all, but this is soooooo boring!” It was a stormy day in Ponyville, and the towns resident weather pony groans in displeasure. She had been planning on hanging out with her friends during the storm, a real slumber party between the six of them, with good food, games, and scary stories! And while the first two -did- happen, including some cider from Applejack, which was always fantastic, now she was going to be bored to tears as Twilight steps up to tell a history lesson? “No offense Darling, but I agree with Rainbow Dash...” Rarity says quietly, the demure unicorn taking a quiet sip of her cider. “But this isn't any ordinary history lesson!” Twilight says, the Element of Magic in the flesh and a bright young unicorn, the Faithful Student of Princess Celestia. “It's a story about my family, and Starswirl the Bearded!” “Booooring!” Pinkie Pie says cheerfully. “Needs more candy!” Twilight and Applejack frown at Pinkie. “Now hold it right thar missy. Family is a big deal, an' ah'm sure Twi's got a good reason fer this story. Besaids, it might be interestin'.” The Farm Pony says, poking her hoof at Pinkie. “Um... I... well... yes, it sounds nice... not scary at all.” Fluttershy murmurs, peeking her head out from behind her mane and over a pillow that she was hugging lightly. Twilight shakes her head. “Well, in some parts it's pretty scary... you see, it's the story of Clover the Clever.” At this, Rarity perks up, and Rainbow Dash groans. “Great.” The lighting-fast pegasus moans aloud. “I'll take a nap, thanks.” Twilight frowns at Rainbow Dash as she motions for her friends to join her by the fireplace, her horn glowing softly as she pulls a strangely bound tome from her library shelves, hidden away in a higher-up-area. “Oh shush... trust me, you'll like it Dash... it has bold heroes, dark monsters, and grand battles.” Twilight says, rolling her eyes. Dash snorts in response as Twilight starts manipulating the flames, much like Zecora did on Nightmare night, putting images into the flame. She coughs to clear her throat and begins. “Gather close, and let your mind stay free, for tis not a tale I tell to forget, nor a tale oft' passed... tis the tale of the Student of Starswirl the Bearded, Guardian of Princess Platinum, Mistress of the Stars, and Master of Light and Darkness... Clover The Clever...” With that, Twilight begins to read, her voice low and almost reverent as an image starts to form into the fire... “Dear Princess Platinum, You asked me once if I had told you everything there was to know about my adventures... and while I can honestly say I have told you the truth... I might not have told you... everything...” A long time ago, longer then anypony can remember, in the mystical lands of Equestria, there lived three races of ponykind. The Earth Pony, strong, humble workers of the land, loyal and honest to a fault and masters of their domain, the very land upon which they stood, hard and bold. The Pegasi, commanders of the sky and a powerful, military race of Pony, proud of their ability to manipulate lighting in their very hooves, to master any weather with their mighty wings. And the Unicorn. Scholars and kindly folk, who oft rested in nature, or in sprawling cities with little conflict, for you see, the Unicorns cared for learning and mastery of their mind over mastery of the land, or of the sky... they sought the beyond, and knowledge beyond their years, prizing it most above all else. However, the Unicorns were the first to realize how unlikely it would be for their scholarly pursuits to secure them a place in the world, and so set out to seek out a way to unite the Pony races. Their task was completed after a meeting with the Pegasi Commandant, Lord Stormwing, and the Earth Pony's Leader, Johnny Appleseed. They met with a single unicorn, known only as 'The Voice', for whom all record was lost. Tis this meeting that lead to harsh words between the races, and almost a full blown war against one another... before A Goddess stepped into reality and brought Harmony. This Goddess, known only as 'Faust', set forth across the lands, her gleaming red mane and shining white coat haring her arrival to all ponykind as she came, spreading her word to the world... and leaving behind two young Goddesses to watch over ponykind. There names were Celestia, and Luna, her daughters, the Sun and the Moon, and so they came to watch over ponykind, set in title as the Princesses of Equestria, and their Mother, the Queen. Under Celestia and Luna, the races came together in Harmony, and the races sought to create something to visualize this unity. What they created were the Elements of Harmony. Six powerful magical artifacts that embraced the six traits of harmony- Loyalty, Honesty, Generosity, Laughter, Kindness, and above all else, Magic. Many moons passed, and all was good... till the Diamond Dogs attacked. They encroach upon ponykind, seeking to steal Equestria out from under the Princesses. They were ruthless, seeking the blood and forced labor of ponykind. The Thousand Year war was horrid. So many ponies died, and their names are still remembered today. But lo, all was not lost, for even though ponykind was pushed back to the capital, to Everfree... the tides were turned, and the Diamond Dogs scattered by a lone unicorn, with a gleaming silver mane and beard. Starswirl the Beareded became the first magician of the Royal Pony Sister's court, and all was as it should have been. Ponykind was slow to recover, but recover they did, but one thing was lost- The Elements of Harmony, stolen by the Diamond Dogs. Years passed and The Elements were forgotten by all but a select few, who spoke of the legendary Elements in hushed tones, seeking clues for where they could have been taken by the Diamond Dogs. Such a precious treasure of Equestria... it should be in pony hooves, not the dirty paws of the greedy Dogs. But this is known history... what isn't known, what I haven't told, is how I came across an adventure I never sought, and how a scholarly unicorn became a thief... “Wait, what did she just say?” Dash says, perking up. “A thief!?” Twilight frowns, glaring at Dash. “Hush. I'm trying to tell you the story!” Dash waves her hooves. “Still, seriously, a Thief?!” Twilight groans, pawing her face. “Yes, seriously, a thief. Clover the Clever was a Thief of great renown.” “... Woah.” “Yes, Woah, now be quiet Rainbow Dash!” On top of a hill in a small area outside of Everfree was a small town by the name of The Shire. This small little unicorn community was a safe, comfortable environment for learning, teaching, and studying. Everypony knew everypony else's name, and oft would trade books with one another, or borrow from one particular pony. Her name is Clover, known to many as 'Clover the Clever' for her knowledge and tricky riddles, which she enjoyed sharing with anypony who stepped into her Library, built into the side of a hill. Oft she would sit, smoking her grand pipe and musing upon riddles and stories as she gazed upon the clouds, waiting for a visitor. What she never expected was that one fine morn, all would change. “Ho there, Clover the Clever.” A low, aged voice mused oft from the unicorn mare, who softly rocked in her chair, pipe in hoof as she glances over to the voice, her carefully cut mane bouncing lightly, it's lavender locks glinting in the morning sun. “Ho there stranger, and stranger still. Good Morning.” Clover muses aloud as she smokes her pipe. “Now, what does that mean? Stranger I should hope not, Clover the Clever, and what should one mean by 'Good Morn'? Is it as such because you decided it so? Is it if I wish it to be one or not? Or mayhaps you just wish me a good morning, or feel that it is one, or maybe even feel that is a morning to be good on?” The elderly unicorn says, smiling warmly at Clover, his belled hat jingling lightly, a cloak almost made of the star settled upon him. “All of them at once, though not so good much longer if thou intent to continue to barrage me with riddles. Tis my job.” The mare huffs out with a puff of smoke. “Still, it is a fine morning for a pipe of tobacco out of doors. If it would please you, have a seat by me and take your fill of mine, and mine riddles as well.” The pony chuckles lightly, bowing his head. “Ah, Clover, such a smart mare, as clever as your titles say, but I have no time for smoke rings today, for you see, I am seeking you, Clover the Clever... how would you like to share an adventure?” “Adventure? Adventure! Good morn to you sir, I have no need nor want of an Adventure, I can't just pack up and leave out of the blue now, for I am loyal to the royal, and I have duties to attend here at my library. Nasty, dirty things, Adventures. Make you late for supper. Good morning, you shall have to find another.” Clover huffs at the silver maned unicorn, who chuckles lightly. “Oh please my dear filly, I ask only that you listen. Sure more knowledge can't be such a horrible thing, can it be? So many things you seem to use good morning for, as you now seem to wish to be rid of me! Never would I think to see the day that Fleetfoot's favorite niece would good morning me.” The wise old unicorn hums with a smile, only to end up with a small cloud of sweet smoke from Clover's pipe in his face. “Not at all! But you are stranger yet, magician, and I don't think I know your name.” She huffs. The unicorn chuckles quietly. “Yes you do, Clover the Clever, though you don't remember that I belong to it, for I am Starswirl the Bearded, and Starswirl means me. And still you send me away, as if I were selling horn enhancements at the door!” Clover blinks in thought at the name, idly tapping her pipe as she gazes at the other unicorn. “Starswirl? Not the Starswirl that told such excellent stories at the parties when I was a filly? The Starswirl who was responsible for so many quiet colts and fillies rushing off with grandeur of adventure in their minds, including my favorite uncle?” “Ah, you do remember. And I would thought to send you on this adventure, Clover. Amusing for me, profitable for you, and very good for you.” “Sorry, but I don't want any adventures, thank you.” Clover says as she taps out her pipe. “Good morning, but please, come to tea! Why not tomorrow? Y-yes, come tomorrow! Good bye!” With that, Clover darted back into her home, the door snapping shut behind her. A few moments pass in silence but for the breeze, before Starswirl chuckles again, musing to himself as he steps forth and lays his horn upon Clover's door, etching carefully and quietly, a small marking... a five pointed star, a jewel upon each point, and a larger gem in the center... Clover huffs to herself as she sets her pipe away. “Adventure indeed! Ho-hum! I am far to busy for an Adventure, nor would I wish to do such a thing! ...But why did I invite him to tea?” She says, her horn glowing as she starts walking amongst her books, drawing up a letter as she walks. “Ahem... Dear Princesses, Upon a more indepth study of my Library and your royal requests, I have discovered the source of the equine ability to manipulate items with our hooves...” Twilight blinks in confusion and frowns. “Wha... no! It's smudged!” She cries out, panicking a bit as she looks at the smudged page. “My mother is going to KILL ME! This is a family heirloom!” The other five ponies are gaping at her... well, Dash is gaping because she's asleep, only to be swiftly kicked awake by Pinkie's flailing limbs as she scrambles to her hooves, bouncing. “Wait, wait, waaaait! You know how it works?!?” Pinkie gasps, pointing at Twilight in shock. Twilight shrugs. “Well, it's not like it's a secret or anything, it's a fact that's been known in my family since... Clover herself.” Rarity blinks. “But why don't more ponies know that? To be fair, it's quite curious how so few know how it works. I certainly do not.” Twilight shakes her head. “Most Ponies don't care and to be honest, it's not anything really spectacular anyway, so the princesses deemed it general information and never really pushed it forwards. Honestly, it's accredited to Clover's name, but it stands as one of her... less then useful discoveries, though it was on the order of the Princess.” “That's great and all Twi, but when is this story gonna pick up? You've been talking for like, twenty minutes now and you -just- finished the first three pages!” Dash groans, rolling onto her back. “I know it's got a slow build up Dash, but please try to bare with me, I'm doing my best to cut it down and modernize it for you. Clover's writing isn't the best in the world, and her words and vocabulary is very flowery due to it being in Ancient Equestiran.” Twilight says, rolling her eyes. Dash sighs. “Fine, fine, as long as it picks up soon...” “Oh, it will Dash, it will.” ------End Chapter One----- Author's Note AN- Well now, isn’t this surprising! I made a rather surprisingly fortuitous favorite a little while ago, and suddenly, I find myself with an editor/prereader for this story! Fillies and Gentlecolts, please, put your hooves together for non other then PropMaster! Yes, the brilliant comedian/romantic and Shortskirtsandexplosion’s prereader/editor was kind enough to do a secret contest by some sheer dumb blind luck I won, and already I can tell my story is going to be so much better because of him. Thank you so much Prop, you have no idea how amazing this is! An Unexpected Party-------CHAPTER TWO: AN UNEXPECTED PARTY-------- “Lets see... aha, the smudging ends here.” Twilight says, looking rather pleased as the girls let out a relieved sigh. “I can't believe six pages of Clovers intricate hoofwriting is smudged! She couldn't have written this by horn, but it's all gone! I suppose I could restore it later and-” “Oh just GET ON WITH IT!” An annoyed, and still rather bored Rainbow Dash speaks up, her tail flicking to the side. Twilight frowns at her friend and sighs, before bringing the book up. “Right, so lets see...” Clover's morning had started as it usually did- Tidying the library with a light dusting from her horn, and then a peaceful smoke. All had gone well till about lunchtime, upon which she received a knocking at her door. “A knocking, a knocking? A guest might I suggest!” Clover muses aloud, having completely forgotten about Starswirl and tea, trotting over to the door and opening it only to see, to her great surprise, a small group of stallions standing before her very eyes. “A thousand and one pardons M'lady.” A unicorn states, very slim in his musculature, his well tamed coat, a cool tan, and his bright red mane glinting in the sunlight next to a unicorn who looks quite similar, more stallions with them. “We were told this was the place to be for tea at the suns highest?” “Forgive me, I didn't know of such a thing! I... ehm...” Now, the normally composed and knowing unicorn mare that was Clover the Clever was unsure of what to make of this, but being a Librarian, was always welcoming to her guests, though there were so many of them... “E-excuse me, please, please, do come in. I shall go put on the tea...” She says, trotting away in shock. The stallions filed into the house, so many of them! She gawked slightly, before her mind reconnected and she turned to head to her kitchen, starting up the kettle and collecting tea leaves for the stallions, who were murmuring amongst themselves as she panicked in her kitchen. “Oh me oh my, I didn't expect this at all! So many guests, and Starswirl will be returning for tea as well!” Clover mutters, only for another loud knocking to come to her door. “J-just a moment!” She calls out as she sets another kettle on the stove for the tea. “Wait wait wait, why didn't she just heat it up with her horn?” Dash asks, frowning. “I mean, she's going all loopy crazy because all the stallions right? She could instantly heat it up!” Twilight shakes her head. “This was so long ago that not even the Princesses remember the whole tale Rainbow Dash. Most common household spells hadn't be made yet, and spells that made heat weren't often used due to how easily they could get out of control.” “So?” “So, if you live in a house made of wood, don't play with matches.” Twilight says dryly, Dash's eyes widening in understanding. “Oh... heh heh... right...” Twilight sighs and rolls her eyes as she lifts the book up again, the fire once again twisting into the images of the tale... Soon, Clover's humble home was a burst with energy. Her library, grand as it were, wasn't a place to have tea, and she oft bore guests in her own living quarters should they wish to have a bite to eat or something to drink, and her small living space was feeling quite packed after three groups of ponies, all stallions for the exception of three mares arrived. The confused mare dashed about her house, quickly making as much hot water for the tea as she could as the ponies conversed amongst themselves and paid tidings to their hostess, whom had now remembered that Starswirl was coming and was rather worried about having enough for all of the guests, only for yet another round of knocking to come to her door. “MORE? Perhaps -now- tis Starswirl and I can ask what in Faust's name is going on!” Clover grumbles as she trots to the door, opening it with magic only to behold in shock as four stallions more tumble into her home and onto her floor, followed by the wizened form of Starswirl the Bearded. “Aha, excellent, we are all present.” Starswirl says with a slightly smug smile as he gathers everypony around Clover's table. “Oh dear...” Clover mutters. After everpony gathers about the table in Clover's dining room, a small, but well crafted room against her kitchen, not far from the door, a room made obviously with guests in mind, warm and welcoming to all whom enter, Clover sitting with them in a moment after serving everypony tea. “Oh dear oh my... whom are all these ponies, Starswirl?” Clover asks. Starswirl smiles at Clover, grinning lightly, “Clover, allow me to introduce... Shim, Sham...” He says, pointing to the twin unicorns, “Gingeroat ,Yamaoat,” He points to two Earth Ponies with farming cutie marks, “Sky Eye, Fly Eye,” He gestures to two more Earth Ponies, “Streak, Beak, Sheek,” He gestures to a trio of Pegasi wearing royal armor, emarked with non other then the Vunderbolten markings, the most powerful and dangerous of the Pegasi grand army's sky brigade, “Sircon, Carron, Stratton,” He gestures to the trio of female pegasi, one whom looks rather confused, a rather energetic, lively looking one, and a gray pegasi with a blond mane whom wears a dark cloak, ducking her head low... “And the leader of our company... Foreign Armorglance...” “Well met, Clover the Clever... fast of hoof and marker of invisibility. Starswirl has told us much of your skill and ability.” Foreign Armorglance says softly, the large unicorn says. The massive unicorn, whom is unusually large for any unicorn, is dressed in heavy, thick armor, obviously not of the lands of Equestria, and his eyes shine in the light, his fur the purest of white and his mane all shades of blue, from the darkest of royal blue to the shining teal, those pure eyes filling the shades in between. “S-skill? Well, yes, I suppose I am rather skilled...” Clover mutters, looking embarrassed, thinking they spoke of her excellent organizational and magical skill. “Indeed. Such a clever and crafty mare...” “...Especially one such named...” “...Is a mare that we...” “...In our valiant quest of course...” “...Most definitively...” “...Need the Assistance of.” Shim and Sham, the twin unicorns, speak, trading off one another's sentences with an accuracy most unnerving. Clover rubs the back of her head in embarrassment. “Truly, you overstate my skill. I am but a humble librarian, and my riddles gather ponyfolk from far an near, true.” Sky Eye hums softy, and Clover turns her head to get a good look at the Earth Pony, his light brown coat now just starting to shine in the midday sun, his dark, chocolate brown mane glinting lightly. “You spoke truly of her Starswirl. Such a humble mare for a pony of her ability and skill. She will be most helpful upon our quest, no doubt.” “Indeed.” The thirteen ponies gathered about Clover's table muse together before looking to Clover. “Tell me this though...” Foreign Armorglance speaks up, “Why does a thief of such as thou live in such a humble abode?” Clover, blinks, looking in confusion before speaking, “B-but I am no thief! I've never stolen a thing in my life!” She says, looking rather shocked at what she saw as a sudden accusation, only to draw laughs from the ponies gathered about her kitchen table, drinking her tea. “You spoke truly, Wizard, she is as humble and crafty as you said.” Sircon, an armored Pegasi, one of the general guard, not of the Vundebolten, spoke, “Just the kind of Mare right for the job. I highly approve of her appointment to this group.” Starswirl chuckles lightly. “She speaks wisely for she grew fast, and strong, studying amongst the books of her youth, before following through with the ideas of the old with the skill and power of the young at heart. A young mare she may be, but a more clever pony you'll have yet to see.” Starswirl muses as he takes a sip of his tea. Clover frowns, her head practically spinning as she tries to wrap her head around what Starswirl just said and apparently told these ponies before Foreign Armorglance stands. “Enough.” He says, his voice low and strong, almost gruff, as if from an Earth Pony, and not a Unicorn, a voice of hard times and weary to the dangers of the world. “Thief, oh great Clover the Clever, I am Foreign Armorglance, as I was introduced by the renounced wizard, the Court Wizard of the Royal Pony Sisters... Starswirl the Bearded.” The massive Unicorn rumbles softly. “My companions and I have to make this request of you, for we know not else of where to turn...” He says, his head hanging lightly as he shivers, as if a unprecedented weight is weighed upon his shoulders. “Wh... what do you mean?” Clover asks quietly as the fourteen other ponies at her table glance at one another worriedly, before Yamaoat, a massive, dark red earth pony, steps forwards, bowing reverently to Clover without a word before pulling a scroll from his saddlebags, passing it to Clover, before a single, almost silent voice begins to sing... “Far over... the Misty Mountains cold... to dungeons deep... and caverns ol'...” Foreign sings, his voice dark and low as if he had recounted such a tale for many a moon, before the voices of the other stallions start to join in... “The pines were holding... upon the hind... the winds were moaning... in the night... the fires red... its flame is spread... the trees like torches... blazed with lies...” At this point, all of the ponies aside from Starswirl and Clover were singing almost... mournfully. “Grand thief... we beg of your aid...” Gingeroat says quietly, bowing his head and almost kneeling before Clover. Clover is breathing softly, almost... shaking, as her voice trembles, her words quietly echoing through her dining room. “That... that song...” She whispers, shivering, almost unable to say another word as Streak, a pegasi Stallion, the apparent leader of the Vunderbolten, speaks up. “Aye... the song of the Elements of Harmony.” He says quietly, his voice strong and stout, that of a stallion, oft accustomed to action, not careful wording. “Tis the tale of how the Diamond Dogs stole them from Everfree... without a glance back, during the grand fire...” Clover's voice hesitantly fills the void after Streak's words, “All through the Night... the trail was found... but it was for nigh... the hearts were lost...” She whispers, as if unable to say a word more. The ponies around her table, one again short of Starswirl, almost recoil in shock. “She knows of the song!” Fly Eye says, the older Earth Pony looking at her in shock. “She knows!” “Then she knows the grimness of our task.” Foreign says, standing up lightly. “And she knows of what we ask. Clover the Clever... we beg of your aid, for we seek the Elements of Harmony, hidden within' the heart of the Diamond Dogs.” The rooms collective breath seems held, and all is quiet as Clover's mind kicks into overtime, sorting through every bit of information she has. The Elements of Harmony, The Goddess Faust's gift to Ponykind, forged by 'The Voice', Johnny Appleseed, and Commandant, Lord Stormwing... their gift of peace and unity between all of the ponies, solidified through the Goddesses... and stolen by the Diamond Dogs. “Are... are thou -mad-?! Do you realize of what you ask!?” Clover hisses, looking around as if making sure non else are listening in on this conversation, to which Foreign Armorglance nods. “Indeed, I do, Clover the Clever. I realize the enormity of what we ask, but we have non else to turn to and your skill and knowledge will no doubt be required upon such an epic quest... for we seek to return the Elements of Harmony to Ponykind.” “Oh come on! Really?” Dash says, looking highly disappointed, only to earn a glare from Twilight. “What is it -now- Rainbow Dash?!” Twilight asks, looking rather miffed, Dashing getting glares from Pinkie, AJ, Rarity and, surprisingly, Fluttershy, as well. “The Elements are kinda symbolic you know? I mean, we don't really need the gems, do we? We're powerful on our own, and when working together we kick flank!” Dash says, ignoring the glares and shadow boxing herself. Twilight sighs. “Yes, that's true, but you're forgetting a single fact... The Element of Magic.” Dash rolls her eyes. “Yeah, one of the Elements of Harmony! Big deal. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's way cool n' all, but so what if it's a tiara while we all get necklaces. They all look cool anyway!” Twilight shakes her head. “The Element of Magic... was forged by Faust herself.” She says quietly. “It's the source of Unicorn Magic, in a way, for she truly enlightened us... and is the source of power for all the other elements. That unknown factor can either make or ruin a friendship... which is why it is so important.” She lectures. Dash frowns. “So wait, how important are we talking?” Twilight sighs. “If the Element of Magic fails? Then whatever darkness we are attempting to fight will win, guaranteed... with exception to the princesses once they are in fighting shape again.” Twilight says, earning a low whistle from Applejack. “That tar' is a doozy Twi... you tellin' me that mah ancestors knew this Clover pony?” The farmpony says, leading to shocked looks from the other five. “Wha.... who are you talking about Applejack?!” Twilight says, gaping at Applejack. “Well shoot, I'm just talkin' bout Johnny Appleseed n' his sons, Gingeroat Appleseed and Yamaoat Appleseed.” her voice turns almost reverent. “He looks almost like mah brother. N' he's legendary in th' apple family... ya'll will see why if Twi will continu' her tale.” Twilight nods to Applejack and takes a breath. “Now, where was I?” She muses before the fire dances again... “I-I see...” Clover mutters. “Now, we understand...” “That you don't work for free!” Shim and Sham speak up. “As such...” “... We have proposed...” “A very lucrative offer!” “Fifty percent of whatever non-Element treasure...” “Shall be yours for the keeping...” “So long as you stick to the deal.” The unicorns finish. Clover's looks at them in shock, her eyes wide and her pupils dilating before a moment passes... and she falls over, lost to the world. “Dear me... I believe we have overwhelmed the girl.” Starswirl muses as Foreign looks on in worry. “This is the pony that we are entrusting our greatest quest to? Surely you can't be serious Starwirl.” The massive unicorn growls to the wizened wizard, who laughs. “Of course I am serious Foreign Armorglance... though I ask that in future though that you do not refer to me as 'Shirley', perchance?” The unicorn groans and smacks his face with his hoof as Starswirl laughs hardly, watching as the twelve other ponies gather around their possible sixteenth member in shock and light a*Choack!*we.... Twilight coughs violently twice, making Fluttershy step up in worry. “Are you ok Twilight? Umm... I mean, if that's alright for me to ask...” She whispers, speaking up twice as loud as anypony has heard her before. “I-I'm ok Fluttershy.” Twilight says. “Just... not used to speaking the stories I read.” “Oh dear... be right bag, I'm going to get some lemon juice, water, and honey.” Flutter mutters before taking off and away at a surprising speed. The other five look on in shock before Dash shrugs. “I'll get more snacks, seeing as we're on a break anyway...” She says, before taking off, as Rarity, AJ, and Pinkie begin to prod Twilight for answers to questions about the story... Author's Note Edit two and a bit of rewriting. An Unexpected Beginning-------CHAPTER THREE: AN UNEXPECTED BEGINNING-------- Twilight coughs a few more times before taking another drink, smiling. “Thank you Fluttershy... my throat feels much better now... it's hard to recreate voices through magic.” She says, nodding her thanks to the shy Pegasus, who blushes and smiles warmly in return, rubbing the back of her head. “O-oh, it was... no big deal.” She murmurs happily, glad that her friend was ok and the compliment was nice too. “All righty then, back to th' story there Twi!” Applejack says happily, looking much more invested in the story now. Twilight nods as she gathers herself and returns the tale. Clover groaned, slowly swaying her head from side to side as she awoke, slowly opening her eyes to the concerned and worried face of the stallions and mares she had met moments ago, and Starswirl, who smiled kindly at her. “Ah, she awakes. See? More resiliant then you give her credit, Armorglance.” Starswirl muses with a light chuckle. “Your thief was most likely caught off guard by her secret being shown so soon. She is a humble thief after all, and one whom only takes what isn't earned.” Foreign huffs, obviously unamused by Starswirl's words or their new thief. “Very well, if it is how you say Starswirl.” He says, standing. “Thank you, Clover the Clever, for being a gracious host. Do you accept our offer? We must be going and going soon, for what little information and plans that we have must be fulfilled and fast.” Clover blinks as she glances around, noticing the hopeful looks upon the faces gathered about her, minus a wise one on Starswirl's face. Even Yamagoat, who's face was most impassive, had that look of possible hope for the young unicorn mare before the group. “I...” She coughs, and rights herself, moving to her hooves. “I would request a moment, Foreign Armorglance, for I wish to speak to Starswirl.” She says, moving to a different room, the stairway to her library and motions for the wizard to follow her with a wave of her hoof, every ounce of willpower in the little pony's hooves urging her onwards and to not collapse in a panic in front of the worried ponies who seemed to be holding out so hard for her help... A few moments pass as Clover's hooves clip and clop on the spiraling stone stairs to her library, and soon step on a thick, fuzzy rug. It had been a gift from Fleetfoot the Odd, as strange of a pony as he was, so unusual for her family... he still was her favorite uncle, always telling a glamorous story or another of his adventures. But she couldn't go on an adventure! There was so much to be done here, how could she just leave now? But the answers to that question were stepping up behind her, coming off of her staircase and unto Fleetfoot's final gift to his favorite niece. “... Why me, Starswirl?” Clover asks, looking to the tall, bearded and grayed pony. “Why not somepony else? Somepony with more talent?” “Because I trust in you, I believe in you, and I think there is more to you then you even realize.” Starswirl says with a grin and a wink. “Besides, how else am I supposed to train my student? Not through letters, that would take too long and there will be no time, nor enough parchment, where we shall tread.” Clover recoils. “Student?!” Starswirl smiles and pulls out a scroll from his saddlebags, hidden under his starry cloak, his horn glowing against his hat as it unfurls before him. “You see, Clover? You are my student, to be trained as the next archmage of the Princesses's court.” Starswirl muses. “Unless... of course... you wish to turn down the offer?” Starswirl says, raising his head a little, those bright, intelligent eyes glimmering even in the slight dark of the underground library. Clover quivered lightly, her thoughts tumbling like a twig in a river, biting her lower lip before speaking, ever so softly. “T-then... I will go with you... s-should I write a letter to the Princesses?” Starswirl smiles softly. “I'm sure you will have quite the letter to write should you return.” “Can you promise I will return?” Clover challenges. “... No.” Starswirl says, his voice grave, a grand contrast to his normally cheery tone. “And should you return, you shaln't be the same.” Clover gulps softly. “... I... S-stand by my word.” She says, a little louder, a little more confident. “I will go.” The news was announced quickly and preparation was swiftly underway, Clover dashing about her house as a pony possesed as she collected her traveling cloak, her saddle bags, and whatever gear she might have needed, and even had the foresight to write a quick note and tack it to her door, citing that should she not return in two years time, that she was lost and for her library to be turned over her next-of-kin, whomever that might be, though, in her rush, she completely forgot her hoofkerchief. At exactly three past sun-high, the band of ponies left Clover's home, a small wind picking up around their hooves to urge them onwards, making the young mare's cloak flutter lightly as she attempts to turn her head, only to be turned aside by a grimacing Starswirl. “Don't look back, dear Clover. For it will only make you wish to return.” Starswirl says quietly, nudging her onwards, making her stumble for a step before she looks at him, and he nods her towards the rest of the herd of ponies, and she lets out a quiet breath before trotting after them, keeping pace as the ponies press on. As she goes, she looks all over The Shire, looking for signs of anypony she knew, anypony whom might want to talk with the librarian, but the hills were quiet, and most ponies were with family in the fields, enjoying a light snack and watching the foals play amongst themselves quietly. The green hills of The Shire fade from sight swiftly, and yet slowly, for Clover the Clever, smart pony that she was, was always thinking for a way to glance back to her home, her place, her comfort... and yet, she was declined this opportunity as the herd suddenly picks up the pace, galloping forwards, even Starswirl dashing past her, making her stumble before murmuring to the princesses to protect her and following. “Wait!” Clover's voice echoed as she started galloping to try to race after the rest of the herd, her cloak whipping out behind her as her saddlebags shifted on her flank. She could tell already, it was going to be a long journey. The unicorn lands passed quickly by, wild yet tame lands lived in by respectable folk who bid the herd a cheery hello was they went along their way, but those vivid lands of color and harmony quickly made way to the Lone-lands, a dreary place of quiet and where nopony lived, for the ground was not fit for growth. Abandoned homes riddled the road, of where ponies once lived when there was gems and rocks of worth around to be freed from their earthen homes, but were no longer. It had been May's finest days for the start of their travels, days passed quickly as the Princesses went about their sacred duties, eternally on time, but as May started to turn to June, the weather started to take a turn for the worst. “Wow, their weather pegasi must be really bad if the weather turned like that. We've got scheduled storms and the like, but that's only when we have to play catch-up.” Rainbow says, tilting her head. Twilight shook her head. “Like Clover stated, this was in the Lone-lands, a bad-lands that is on the other side of the Everfree Forest, where the Shire is. Nopony lives out there, for there really is nothing there of worth. Not even a strategic point for an army.” “Well shoot Twi, ah' bet if 'nough Earth Ponies lived thar, they'd bring that land to life real quick!” Applejack says, giving Twilight a bright smile. Twilight smiled back and shook her head softly. “If it was possible, it would have been done already. The issue with the lone-lands is that the soil there is not exactly toxic, but not fit for growing anything in.” “What happens next? Do go on Darling! It must have been so GHASTLY to be in such... ugh, unfortunate weather.” Rarity says, shuddering at the thought of the mud and ick caused by such a storm. “Well, let me skip ahead a bit, the next few paragraphs are Clover ranting about the weather...” As they made their way into the hills on the other side of the lone lands, the weather worstened as they entered a more forested area, with large trees that spread wildly over the herd as they steadily climbed on. “Stratton, you're a weather pony, can't you do something about this incessant rain?” Armorglance grumbles at the pegasi as they trudged through the trees, their saddlebags not soaked, but certainly much wetter then they should have been. “Forgive me Sir Armorglance, but this storm is too much for one pegasi-” “I could handle it!” “Sssssh, Twilight's reading Dashie!” “And? I still could handle it!” “-and I fear that even the six of us are not quite enough to tame these winds. The clouds would return as quickly as we dispersed them.” Stratton says apologeticly, the tan furred and brown maned pegasi hanging her head in apology. Clover sighed to herself, “Drat and double drat that Starswirl. Where has he gotten off to? He would know a spell to keep us dry!” “Indeed, where has he gotten to?” Sky Eye says in wonder, looking about. Gigeroat coughs, drawing everypony's attention, and gestures towards some trees nearby. “Well, ah' reckon that we might as well stop 'ere abouts. Under these trees should be drah'er then anywh'er else 'round here.” The earth pony says with a nod, tilting his stetson. “Eeyup.” Yamaoat chimes in, followed quickly with a second group of agreements from Shim and Sham. Foreign Armorglance growled lowly, looking determined to continue on, but relents as he hangs his head, tired of the wet as much as anypony else, though quite unamused at having to stop. “Very well, we shall stay till the weather clears, or till dawn, whichever comes first. Besides, Luna is about to grace the sky.” He says. The herd quickly set about camp, and soon were attempting to light a fire, Shim and Sham arguing over the fint as both unsuccessfully tried to light the wet tinder. “Oh bother being a thief. I wish I where back in my Library, warm and cozy, reading the Shape of the Sky and picking out Luna's stars.” Clover muttered quietly to herself, thoroughly unamused and displeased with this adventure business so far. As the ponies settled in, a watch was set, and their best lookout, Sky Eye, quickly took up first watch, trotting about a perimeter to keep an eye out for timberwolves. A hour passed quietly, and without success for Shim and Sham, nor anypony else, for lighting a fire, as the rain slowed to a drizzle. Sky Eye was the first to spot the light glowing off in the distance. “Ho! There's a light over there!” The earth pony called, drawing the attention of the herd. “A traveler?” “No, nopony treads these dreary lands but us.” “Well, there are -fourteen- of us.” “Where has that magician gone off to?” “Send the Thief to find out!” “Yes, the Theif!” The chatter of the ponies drew Clover's attention from where she had curled to attempt sleep, making her raise her head as Armorglance trotted up to her side and nudged her to her hooves. “Clover the Clever, we are sending you out. You must find out all about that light! Scuttle off, quickly, and come back on swift and quiet hooves! If you can come back at all! If you can't, hoot twice like a barn owl, and once like a screech owl, and we shall come to assist you.” With those... encouraging, words, Clover was shoved ahead of the other ponies a*nd towards the light, and she took off at a light trot, pulling her hood up over her head, frowning. “Oh dear... I can't hoot like an owl ONCE, much less hoot like two different species! I don't think I could differentiate between the two either, for I haven't an owl to test such a thing...” Twilight sighs and shakes her head. “Having lived with an Owl for a while now, I can honestly say that it's very difficult to hoot like one.” “Who?” The aforementioned owl asks, looking up from his task of high dusting the shelves of the library. “You, silly!” Pinkie giggles as Twilight turns her head back to the book and flips a few pages. Clover crept closer and closer to the light, keeping low and breathing lightly, only for her ears to fold back and her eyes to widen in shock, barely resisting the urge to turn tail and flee as she saw the source of the light. “T-trolls...” “Trolls? What are they?” Rainbow Dash asks, tilting her head. Trolls, for those who are unaware, are nasty, beastly things, barely intelligent and a meat eating sort with a perchance for killing unwary travelers and turning them into stew. The common troll was at least six ponies tall and four wide, walking upon two legs and with big jaws and sharp teeth. These three were perfect examples of their species... if twice as stupid. “Oh. Cool.” Dash says, leaning forwards as she idly accepts a bowl of popcorn from Pinkie Pie. -Chapter End- Author's Note A/N: This seemed like a good spot to stop, and so I have! Welcome back everypony! And everyone else as well! I'm sorry about the wait, but I finally found my copy of the Hobbit (and remembered to bring it with me to the boat this time!) and as such, I've started writing The Unexpected Journeigh once again! Yep, no stopping it now, it's gonna happen! I've done a bit of re-writing, so make sure to re-read chapters one and two to recollect where we are in the story. I've changed a few things, so it should be a bit more of an entertaining read. So, back to it! -Your Lovely Authoress.
An Unexpected VisitorThe Pony: An Unexpected Journeigh A fanfic by Ash the Kitsune MLP:FIM is Owned by Hasbro, as are any of it's characters. Characters that I make up are owned by moi, of course, and The Hobbit and LotR are (c) Professor J. R. R. Tolkien, without whom none of this would have happened of course... and without whom, I doubt I'd have ever become an avid reader and writer. Thank you, Professor... for everything. Credits for this idea go to the almost insanely talented GalaxyartForever and his crew of voice actors/actresses for his amazing trailer. From this I draw my inspiration to write it... along with The Hobbit of course. ------- CHAPTER ONE: AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR -------- “Uuuuugh, Twiiiiliiiiiight! Do we have to do this?” Rainbow Dash moans in annoyance as she looks at her Egghead Friend. “I know you love reading and all, but this is soooooo boring!” It was a stormy day in Ponyville, and the towns resident weather pony groans in displeasure. She had been planning on hanging out with her friends during the storm, a real slumber party between the six of them, with good food, games, and scary stories! And while the first two -did- happen, including some cider from Applejack, which was always fantastic, now she was going to be bored to tears as Twilight steps up to tell a history lesson? “No offense Darling, but I agree with Rainbow Dash...” Rarity says quietly, the demure unicorn taking a quiet sip of her cider. “But this isn't any ordinary history lesson!” Twilight says, the Element of Magic in the flesh and a bright young unicorn, the Faithful Student of Princess Celestia. “It's a story about my family, and Starswirl the Bearded!” “Booooring!” Pinkie Pie says cheerfully. “Needs more candy!” Twilight and Applejack frown at Pinkie. “Now hold it right thar missy. Family is a big deal, an' ah'm sure Twi's got a good reason fer this story. Besaids, it might be interestin'.” The Farm Pony says, poking her hoof at Pinkie. “Um... I... well... yes, it sounds nice... not scary at all.” Fluttershy murmurs, peeking her head out from behind her mane and over a pillow that she was hugging lightly. Twilight shakes her head. “Well, in some parts it's pretty scary... you see, it's the story of Clover the Clever.” At this, Rarity perks up, and Rainbow Dash groans. “Great.” The lighting-fast pegasus moans aloud. “I'll take a nap, thanks.” Twilight frowns at Rainbow Dash as she motions for her friends to join her by the fireplace, her horn glowing softly as she pulls a strangely bound tome from her library shelves, hidden away in a higher-up-area. “Oh shush... trust me, you'll like it Dash... it has bold heroes, dark monsters, and grand battles.” Twilight says, rolling her eyes. Dash snorts in response as Twilight starts manipulating the flames, much like Zecora did on Nightmare night, putting images into the flame. She coughs to clear her throat and begins. “Gather close, and let your mind stay free, for tis not a tale I tell to forget, nor a tale oft' passed... tis the tale of the Student of Starswirl the Bearded, Guardian of Princess Platinum, Mistress of the Stars, and Master of Light and Darkness... Clover The Clever...” With that, Twilight begins to read, her voice low and almost reverent as an image starts to form into the fire... “Dear Princess Platinum, You asked me once if I had told you everything there was to know about my adventures... and while I can honestly say I have told you the truth... I might not have told you... everything...” A long time ago, longer then anypony can remember, in the mystical lands of Equestria, there lived three races of ponykind. The Earth Pony, strong, humble workers of the land, loyal and honest to a fault and masters of their domain, the very land upon which they stood, hard and bold. The Pegasi, commanders of the sky and a powerful, military race of Pony, proud of their ability to manipulate lighting in their very hooves, to master any weather with their mighty wings. And the Unicorn. Scholars and kindly folk, who oft rested in nature, or in sprawling cities with little conflict, for you see, the Unicorns cared for learning and mastery of their mind over mastery of the land, or of the sky... they sought the beyond, and knowledge beyond their years, prizing it most above all else. However, the Unicorns were the first to realize how unlikely it would be for their scholarly pursuits to secure them a place in the world, and so set out to seek out a way to unite the Pony races. Their task was completed after a meeting with the Pegasi Commandant, Lord Stormwing, and the Earth Pony's Leader, Johnny Appleseed. They met with a single unicorn, known only as 'The Voice', for whom all record was lost. Tis this meeting that lead to harsh words between the races, and almost a full blown war against one another... before A Goddess stepped into reality and brought Harmony. This Goddess, known only as 'Faust', set forth across the lands, her gleaming red mane and shining white coat haring her arrival to all ponykind as she came, spreading her word to the world... and leaving behind two young Goddesses to watch over ponykind. There names were Celestia, and Luna, her daughters, the Sun and the Moon, and so they came to watch over ponykind, set in title as the Princesses of Equestria, and their Mother, the Queen. Under Celestia and Luna, the races came together in Harmony, and the races sought to create something to visualize this unity. What they created were the Elements of Harmony. Six powerful magical artifacts that embraced the six traits of harmony- Loyalty, Honesty, Generosity, Laughter, Kindness, and above all else, Magic. Many moons passed, and all was good... till the Diamond Dogs attacked. They encroach upon ponykind, seeking to steal Equestria out from under the Princesses. They were ruthless, seeking the blood and forced labor of ponykind. The Thousand Year war was horrid. So many ponies died, and their names are still remembered today. But lo, all was not lost, for even though ponykind was pushed back to the capital, to Everfree... the tides were turned, and the Diamond Dogs scattered by a lone unicorn, with a gleaming silver mane and beard. Starswirl the Beareded became the first magician of the Royal Pony Sister's court, and all was as it should have been. Ponykind was slow to recover, but recover they did, but one thing was lost- The Elements of Harmony, stolen by the Diamond Dogs. Years passed and The Elements were forgotten by all but a select few, who spoke of the legendary Elements in hushed tones, seeking clues for where they could have been taken by the Diamond Dogs. Such a precious treasure of Equestria... it should be in pony hooves, not the dirty paws of the greedy Dogs. But this is known history... what isn't known, what I haven't told, is how I came across an adventure I never sought, and how a scholarly unicorn became a thief... “Wait, what did she just say?” Dash says, perking up. “A thief!?” Twilight frowns, glaring at Dash. “Hush. I'm trying to tell you the story!” Dash waves her hooves. “Still, seriously, a Thief?!” Twilight groans, pawing her face. “Yes, seriously, a thief. Clover the Clever was a Thief of great renown.” “... Woah.” “Yes, Woah, now be quiet Rainbow Dash!” On top of a hill in a small area outside of Everfree was a small town by the name of The Shire. This small little unicorn community was a safe, comfortable environment for learning, teaching, and studying. Everypony knew everypony else's name, and oft would trade books with one another, or borrow from one particular pony. Her name is Clover, known to many as 'Clover the Clever' for her knowledge and tricky riddles, which she enjoyed sharing with anypony who stepped into her Library, built into the side of a hill. Oft she would sit, smoking her grand pipe and musing upon riddles and stories as she gazed upon the clouds, waiting for a visitor. What she never expected was that one fine morn, all would change. “Ho there, Clover the Clever.” A low, aged voice mused oft from the unicorn mare, who softly rocked in her chair, pipe in hoof as she glances over to the voice, her carefully cut mane bouncing lightly, it's lavender locks glinting in the morning sun. “Ho there stranger, and stranger still. Good Morning.” Clover muses aloud as she smokes her pipe. “Now, what does that mean? Stranger I should hope not, Clover the Clever, and what should one mean by 'Good Morn'? Is it as such because you decided it so? Is it if I wish it to be one or not? Or mayhaps you just wish me a good morning, or feel that it is one, or maybe even feel that is a morning to be good on?” The elderly unicorn says, smiling warmly at Clover, his belled hat jingling lightly, a cloak almost made of the star settled upon him. “All of them at once, though not so good much longer if thou intent to continue to barrage me with riddles. Tis my job.” The mare huffs out with a puff of smoke. “Still, it is a fine morning for a pipe of tobacco out of doors. If it would please you, have a seat by me and take your fill of mine, and mine riddles as well.” The pony chuckles lightly, bowing his head. “Ah, Clover, such a smart mare, as clever as your titles say, but I have no time for smoke rings today, for you see, I am seeking you, Clover the Clever... how would you like to share an adventure?” “Adventure? Adventure! Good morn to you sir, I have no need nor want of an Adventure, I can't just pack up and leave out of the blue now, for I am loyal to the royal, and I have duties to attend here at my library. Nasty, dirty things, Adventures. Make you late for supper. Good morning, you shall have to find another.” Clover huffs at the silver maned unicorn, who chuckles lightly. “Oh please my dear filly, I ask only that you listen. Sure more knowledge can't be such a horrible thing, can it be? So many things you seem to use good morning for, as you now seem to wish to be rid of me! Never would I think to see the day that Fleetfoot's favorite niece would good morning me.” The wise old unicorn hums with a smile, only to end up with a small cloud of sweet smoke from Clover's pipe in his face. “Not at all! But you are stranger yet, magician, and I don't think I know your name.” She huffs. The unicorn chuckles quietly. “Yes you do, Clover the Clever, though you don't remember that I belong to it, for I am Starswirl the Bearded, and Starswirl means me. And still you send me away, as if I were selling horn enhancements at the door!” Clover blinks in thought at the name, idly tapping her pipe as she gazes at the other unicorn. “Starswirl? Not the Starswirl that told such excellent stories at the parties when I was a filly? The Starswirl who was responsible for so many quiet colts and fillies rushing off with grandeur of adventure in their minds, including my favorite uncle?” “Ah, you do remember. And I would thought to send you on this adventure, Clover. Amusing for me, profitable for you, and very good for you.” “Sorry, but I don't want any adventures, thank you.” Clover says as she taps out her pipe. “Good morning, but please, come to tea! Why not tomorrow? Y-yes, come tomorrow! Good bye!” With that, Clover darted back into her home, the door snapping shut behind her. A few moments pass in silence but for the breeze, before Starswirl chuckles again, musing to himself as he steps forth and lays his horn upon Clover's door, etching carefully and quietly, a small marking... a five pointed star, a jewel upon each point, and a larger gem in the center... Clover huffs to herself as she sets her pipe away. “Adventure indeed! Ho-hum! I am far to busy for an Adventure, nor would I wish to do such a thing! ...But why did I invite him to tea?” She says, her horn glowing as she starts walking amongst her books, drawing up a letter as she walks. “Ahem... Dear Princesses, Upon a more indepth study of my Library and your royal requests, I have discovered the source of the equine ability to manipulate items with our hooves...” Twilight blinks in confusion and frowns. “Wha... no! It's smudged!” She cries out, panicking a bit as she looks at the smudged page. “My mother is going to KILL ME! This is a family heirloom!” The other five ponies are gaping at her... well, Dash is gaping because she's asleep, only to be swiftly kicked awake by Pinkie's flailing limbs as she scrambles to her hooves, bouncing. “Wait, wait, waaaait! You know how it works?!?” Pinkie gasps, pointing at Twilight in shock. Twilight shrugs. “Well, it's not like it's a secret or anything, it's a fact that's been known in my family since... Clover herself.” Rarity blinks. “But why don't more ponies know that? To be fair, it's quite curious how so few know how it works. I certainly do not.” Twilight shakes her head. “Most Ponies don't care and to be honest, it's not anything really spectacular anyway, so the princesses deemed it general information and never really pushed it forwards. Honestly, it's accredited to Clover's name, but it stands as one of her... less then useful discoveries, though it was on the order of the Princess.” “That's great and all Twi, but when is this story gonna pick up? You've been talking for like, twenty minutes now and you -just- finished the first three pages!” Dash groans, rolling onto her back. “I know it's got a slow build up Dash, but please try to bare with me, I'm doing my best to cut it down and modernize it for you. Clover's writing isn't the best in the world, and her words and vocabulary is very flowery due to it being in Ancient Equestiran.” Twilight says, rolling her eyes. Dash sighs. “Fine, fine, as long as it picks up soon...” “Oh, it will Dash, it will.” ------End Chapter One----- Author's Note AN- Well now, isn’t this surprising! I made a rather surprisingly fortuitous favorite a little while ago, and suddenly, I find myself with an editor/prereader for this story! Fillies and Gentlecolts, please, put your hooves together for non other then PropMaster! Yes, the brilliant comedian/romantic and Shortskirtsandexplosion’s prereader/editor was kind enough to do a secret contest by some sheer dumb blind luck I won, and already I can tell my story is going to be so much better because of him. Thank you so much Prop, you have no idea how amazing this is!
An Unexpected Party-------CHAPTER TWO: AN UNEXPECTED PARTY-------- “Lets see... aha, the smudging ends here.” Twilight says, looking rather pleased as the girls let out a relieved sigh. “I can't believe six pages of Clovers intricate hoofwriting is smudged! She couldn't have written this by horn, but it's all gone! I suppose I could restore it later and-” “Oh just GET ON WITH IT!” An annoyed, and still rather bored Rainbow Dash speaks up, her tail flicking to the side. Twilight frowns at her friend and sighs, before bringing the book up. “Right, so lets see...” Clover's morning had started as it usually did- Tidying the library with a light dusting from her horn, and then a peaceful smoke. All had gone well till about lunchtime, upon which she received a knocking at her door. “A knocking, a knocking? A guest might I suggest!” Clover muses aloud, having completely forgotten about Starswirl and tea, trotting over to the door and opening it only to see, to her great surprise, a small group of stallions standing before her very eyes. “A thousand and one pardons M'lady.” A unicorn states, very slim in his musculature, his well tamed coat, a cool tan, and his bright red mane glinting in the sunlight next to a unicorn who looks quite similar, more stallions with them. “We were told this was the place to be for tea at the suns highest?” “Forgive me, I didn't know of such a thing! I... ehm...” Now, the normally composed and knowing unicorn mare that was Clover the Clever was unsure of what to make of this, but being a Librarian, was always welcoming to her guests, though there were so many of them... “E-excuse me, please, please, do come in. I shall go put on the tea...” She says, trotting away in shock. The stallions filed into the house, so many of them! She gawked slightly, before her mind reconnected and she turned to head to her kitchen, starting up the kettle and collecting tea leaves for the stallions, who were murmuring amongst themselves as she panicked in her kitchen. “Oh me oh my, I didn't expect this at all! So many guests, and Starswirl will be returning for tea as well!” Clover mutters, only for another loud knocking to come to her door. “J-just a moment!” She calls out as she sets another kettle on the stove for the tea. “Wait wait wait, why didn't she just heat it up with her horn?” Dash asks, frowning. “I mean, she's going all loopy crazy because all the stallions right? She could instantly heat it up!” Twilight shakes her head. “This was so long ago that not even the Princesses remember the whole tale Rainbow Dash. Most common household spells hadn't be made yet, and spells that made heat weren't often used due to how easily they could get out of control.” “So?” “So, if you live in a house made of wood, don't play with matches.” Twilight says dryly, Dash's eyes widening in understanding. “Oh... heh heh... right...” Twilight sighs and rolls her eyes as she lifts the book up again, the fire once again twisting into the images of the tale... Soon, Clover's humble home was a burst with energy. Her library, grand as it were, wasn't a place to have tea, and she oft bore guests in her own living quarters should they wish to have a bite to eat or something to drink, and her small living space was feeling quite packed after three groups of ponies, all stallions for the exception of three mares arrived. The confused mare dashed about her house, quickly making as much hot water for the tea as she could as the ponies conversed amongst themselves and paid tidings to their hostess, whom had now remembered that Starswirl was coming and was rather worried about having enough for all of the guests, only for yet another round of knocking to come to her door. “MORE? Perhaps -now- tis Starswirl and I can ask what in Faust's name is going on!” Clover grumbles as she trots to the door, opening it with magic only to behold in shock as four stallions more tumble into her home and onto her floor, followed by the wizened form of Starswirl the Bearded. “Aha, excellent, we are all present.” Starswirl says with a slightly smug smile as he gathers everypony around Clover's table. “Oh dear...” Clover mutters. After everpony gathers about the table in Clover's dining room, a small, but well crafted room against her kitchen, not far from the door, a room made obviously with guests in mind, warm and welcoming to all whom enter, Clover sitting with them in a moment after serving everypony tea. “Oh dear oh my... whom are all these ponies, Starswirl?” Clover asks. Starswirl smiles at Clover, grinning lightly, “Clover, allow me to introduce... Shim, Sham...” He says, pointing to the twin unicorns, “Gingeroat ,Yamaoat,” He points to two Earth Ponies with farming cutie marks, “Sky Eye, Fly Eye,” He gestures to two more Earth Ponies, “Streak, Beak, Sheek,” He gestures to a trio of Pegasi wearing royal armor, emarked with non other then the Vunderbolten markings, the most powerful and dangerous of the Pegasi grand army's sky brigade, “Sircon, Carron, Stratton,” He gestures to the trio of female pegasi, one whom looks rather confused, a rather energetic, lively looking one, and a gray pegasi with a blond mane whom wears a dark cloak, ducking her head low... “And the leader of our company... Foreign Armorglance...” “Well met, Clover the Clever... fast of hoof and marker of invisibility. Starswirl has told us much of your skill and ability.” Foreign Armorglance says softly, the large unicorn says. The massive unicorn, whom is unusually large for any unicorn, is dressed in heavy, thick armor, obviously not of the lands of Equestria, and his eyes shine in the light, his fur the purest of white and his mane all shades of blue, from the darkest of royal blue to the shining teal, those pure eyes filling the shades in between. “S-skill? Well, yes, I suppose I am rather skilled...” Clover mutters, looking embarrassed, thinking they spoke of her excellent organizational and magical skill. “Indeed. Such a clever and crafty mare...” “...Especially one such named...” “...Is a mare that we...” “...In our valiant quest of course...” “...Most definitively...” “...Need the Assistance of.” Shim and Sham, the twin unicorns, speak, trading off one another's sentences with an accuracy most unnerving. Clover rubs the back of her head in embarrassment. “Truly, you overstate my skill. I am but a humble librarian, and my riddles gather ponyfolk from far an near, true.” Sky Eye hums softy, and Clover turns her head to get a good look at the Earth Pony, his light brown coat now just starting to shine in the midday sun, his dark, chocolate brown mane glinting lightly. “You spoke truly of her Starswirl. Such a humble mare for a pony of her ability and skill. She will be most helpful upon our quest, no doubt.” “Indeed.” The thirteen ponies gathered about Clover's table muse together before looking to Clover. “Tell me this though...” Foreign Armorglance speaks up, “Why does a thief of such as thou live in such a humble abode?” Clover, blinks, looking in confusion before speaking, “B-but I am no thief! I've never stolen a thing in my life!” She says, looking rather shocked at what she saw as a sudden accusation, only to draw laughs from the ponies gathered about her kitchen table, drinking her tea. “You spoke truly, Wizard, she is as humble and crafty as you said.” Sircon, an armored Pegasi, one of the general guard, not of the Vundebolten, spoke, “Just the kind of Mare right for the job. I highly approve of her appointment to this group.” Starswirl chuckles lightly. “She speaks wisely for she grew fast, and strong, studying amongst the books of her youth, before following through with the ideas of the old with the skill and power of the young at heart. A young mare she may be, but a more clever pony you'll have yet to see.” Starswirl muses as he takes a sip of his tea. Clover frowns, her head practically spinning as she tries to wrap her head around what Starswirl just said and apparently told these ponies before Foreign Armorglance stands. “Enough.” He says, his voice low and strong, almost gruff, as if from an Earth Pony, and not a Unicorn, a voice of hard times and weary to the dangers of the world. “Thief, oh great Clover the Clever, I am Foreign Armorglance, as I was introduced by the renounced wizard, the Court Wizard of the Royal Pony Sisters... Starswirl the Bearded.” The massive Unicorn rumbles softly. “My companions and I have to make this request of you, for we know not else of where to turn...” He says, his head hanging lightly as he shivers, as if a unprecedented weight is weighed upon his shoulders. “Wh... what do you mean?” Clover asks quietly as the fourteen other ponies at her table glance at one another worriedly, before Yamaoat, a massive, dark red earth pony, steps forwards, bowing reverently to Clover without a word before pulling a scroll from his saddlebags, passing it to Clover, before a single, almost silent voice begins to sing... “Far over... the Misty Mountains cold... to dungeons deep... and caverns ol'...” Foreign sings, his voice dark and low as if he had recounted such a tale for many a moon, before the voices of the other stallions start to join in... “The pines were holding... upon the hind... the winds were moaning... in the night... the fires red... its flame is spread... the trees like torches... blazed with lies...” At this point, all of the ponies aside from Starswirl and Clover were singing almost... mournfully. “Grand thief... we beg of your aid...” Gingeroat says quietly, bowing his head and almost kneeling before Clover. Clover is breathing softly, almost... shaking, as her voice trembles, her words quietly echoing through her dining room. “That... that song...” She whispers, shivering, almost unable to say another word as Streak, a pegasi Stallion, the apparent leader of the Vunderbolten, speaks up. “Aye... the song of the Elements of Harmony.” He says quietly, his voice strong and stout, that of a stallion, oft accustomed to action, not careful wording. “Tis the tale of how the Diamond Dogs stole them from Everfree... without a glance back, during the grand fire...” Clover's voice hesitantly fills the void after Streak's words, “All through the Night... the trail was found... but it was for nigh... the hearts were lost...” She whispers, as if unable to say a word more. The ponies around her table, one again short of Starswirl, almost recoil in shock. “She knows of the song!” Fly Eye says, the older Earth Pony looking at her in shock. “She knows!” “Then she knows the grimness of our task.” Foreign says, standing up lightly. “And she knows of what we ask. Clover the Clever... we beg of your aid, for we seek the Elements of Harmony, hidden within' the heart of the Diamond Dogs.” The rooms collective breath seems held, and all is quiet as Clover's mind kicks into overtime, sorting through every bit of information she has. The Elements of Harmony, The Goddess Faust's gift to Ponykind, forged by 'The Voice', Johnny Appleseed, and Commandant, Lord Stormwing... their gift of peace and unity between all of the ponies, solidified through the Goddesses... and stolen by the Diamond Dogs. “Are... are thou -mad-?! Do you realize of what you ask!?” Clover hisses, looking around as if making sure non else are listening in on this conversation, to which Foreign Armorglance nods. “Indeed, I do, Clover the Clever. I realize the enormity of what we ask, but we have non else to turn to and your skill and knowledge will no doubt be required upon such an epic quest... for we seek to return the Elements of Harmony to Ponykind.” “Oh come on! Really?” Dash says, looking highly disappointed, only to earn a glare from Twilight. “What is it -now- Rainbow Dash?!” Twilight asks, looking rather miffed, Dashing getting glares from Pinkie, AJ, Rarity and, surprisingly, Fluttershy, as well. “The Elements are kinda symbolic you know? I mean, we don't really need the gems, do we? We're powerful on our own, and when working together we kick flank!” Dash says, ignoring the glares and shadow boxing herself. Twilight sighs. “Yes, that's true, but you're forgetting a single fact... The Element of Magic.” Dash rolls her eyes. “Yeah, one of the Elements of Harmony! Big deal. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's way cool n' all, but so what if it's a tiara while we all get necklaces. They all look cool anyway!” Twilight shakes her head. “The Element of Magic... was forged by Faust herself.” She says quietly. “It's the source of Unicorn Magic, in a way, for she truly enlightened us... and is the source of power for all the other elements. That unknown factor can either make or ruin a friendship... which is why it is so important.” She lectures. Dash frowns. “So wait, how important are we talking?” Twilight sighs. “If the Element of Magic fails? Then whatever darkness we are attempting to fight will win, guaranteed... with exception to the princesses once they are in fighting shape again.” Twilight says, earning a low whistle from Applejack. “That tar' is a doozy Twi... you tellin' me that mah ancestors knew this Clover pony?” The farmpony says, leading to shocked looks from the other five. “Wha.... who are you talking about Applejack?!” Twilight says, gaping at Applejack. “Well shoot, I'm just talkin' bout Johnny Appleseed n' his sons, Gingeroat Appleseed and Yamaoat Appleseed.” her voice turns almost reverent. “He looks almost like mah brother. N' he's legendary in th' apple family... ya'll will see why if Twi will continu' her tale.” Twilight nods to Applejack and takes a breath. “Now, where was I?” She muses before the fire dances again... “I-I see...” Clover mutters. “Now, we understand...” “That you don't work for free!” Shim and Sham speak up. “As such...” “... We have proposed...” “A very lucrative offer!” “Fifty percent of whatever non-Element treasure...” “Shall be yours for the keeping...” “So long as you stick to the deal.” The unicorns finish. Clover's looks at them in shock, her eyes wide and her pupils dilating before a moment passes... and she falls over, lost to the world. “Dear me... I believe we have overwhelmed the girl.” Starswirl muses as Foreign looks on in worry. “This is the pony that we are entrusting our greatest quest to? Surely you can't be serious Starwirl.” The massive unicorn growls to the wizened wizard, who laughs. “Of course I am serious Foreign Armorglance... though I ask that in future though that you do not refer to me as 'Shirley', perchance?” The unicorn groans and smacks his face with his hoof as Starswirl laughs hardly, watching as the twelve other ponies gather around their possible sixteenth member in shock and light a*Choack!*we.... Twilight coughs violently twice, making Fluttershy step up in worry. “Are you ok Twilight? Umm... I mean, if that's alright for me to ask...” She whispers, speaking up twice as loud as anypony has heard her before. “I-I'm ok Fluttershy.” Twilight says. “Just... not used to speaking the stories I read.” “Oh dear... be right bag, I'm going to get some lemon juice, water, and honey.” Flutter mutters before taking off and away at a surprising speed. The other five look on in shock before Dash shrugs. “I'll get more snacks, seeing as we're on a break anyway...” She says, before taking off, as Rarity, AJ, and Pinkie begin to prod Twilight for answers to questions about the story... Author's Note Edit two and a bit of rewriting.
An Unexpected Beginning-------CHAPTER THREE: AN UNEXPECTED BEGINNING-------- Twilight coughs a few more times before taking another drink, smiling. “Thank you Fluttershy... my throat feels much better now... it's hard to recreate voices through magic.” She says, nodding her thanks to the shy Pegasus, who blushes and smiles warmly in return, rubbing the back of her head. “O-oh, it was... no big deal.” She murmurs happily, glad that her friend was ok and the compliment was nice too. “All righty then, back to th' story there Twi!” Applejack says happily, looking much more invested in the story now. Twilight nods as she gathers herself and returns the tale. Clover groaned, slowly swaying her head from side to side as she awoke, slowly opening her eyes to the concerned and worried face of the stallions and mares she had met moments ago, and Starswirl, who smiled kindly at her. “Ah, she awakes. See? More resiliant then you give her credit, Armorglance.” Starswirl muses with a light chuckle. “Your thief was most likely caught off guard by her secret being shown so soon. She is a humble thief after all, and one whom only takes what isn't earned.” Foreign huffs, obviously unamused by Starswirl's words or their new thief. “Very well, if it is how you say Starswirl.” He says, standing. “Thank you, Clover the Clever, for being a gracious host. Do you accept our offer? We must be going and going soon, for what little information and plans that we have must be fulfilled and fast.” Clover blinks as she glances around, noticing the hopeful looks upon the faces gathered about her, minus a wise one on Starswirl's face. Even Yamagoat, who's face was most impassive, had that look of possible hope for the young unicorn mare before the group. “I...” She coughs, and rights herself, moving to her hooves. “I would request a moment, Foreign Armorglance, for I wish to speak to Starswirl.” She says, moving to a different room, the stairway to her library and motions for the wizard to follow her with a wave of her hoof, every ounce of willpower in the little pony's hooves urging her onwards and to not collapse in a panic in front of the worried ponies who seemed to be holding out so hard for her help... A few moments pass as Clover's hooves clip and clop on the spiraling stone stairs to her library, and soon step on a thick, fuzzy rug. It had been a gift from Fleetfoot the Odd, as strange of a pony as he was, so unusual for her family... he still was her favorite uncle, always telling a glamorous story or another of his adventures. But she couldn't go on an adventure! There was so much to be done here, how could she just leave now? But the answers to that question were stepping up behind her, coming off of her staircase and unto Fleetfoot's final gift to his favorite niece. “... Why me, Starswirl?” Clover asks, looking to the tall, bearded and grayed pony. “Why not somepony else? Somepony with more talent?” “Because I trust in you, I believe in you, and I think there is more to you then you even realize.” Starswirl says with a grin and a wink. “Besides, how else am I supposed to train my student? Not through letters, that would take too long and there will be no time, nor enough parchment, where we shall tread.” Clover recoils. “Student?!” Starswirl smiles and pulls out a scroll from his saddlebags, hidden under his starry cloak, his horn glowing against his hat as it unfurls before him. “You see, Clover? You are my student, to be trained as the next archmage of the Princesses's court.” Starswirl muses. “Unless... of course... you wish to turn down the offer?” Starswirl says, raising his head a little, those bright, intelligent eyes glimmering even in the slight dark of the underground library. Clover quivered lightly, her thoughts tumbling like a twig in a river, biting her lower lip before speaking, ever so softly. “T-then... I will go with you... s-should I write a letter to the Princesses?” Starswirl smiles softly. “I'm sure you will have quite the letter to write should you return.” “Can you promise I will return?” Clover challenges. “... No.” Starswirl says, his voice grave, a grand contrast to his normally cheery tone. “And should you return, you shaln't be the same.” Clover gulps softly. “... I... S-stand by my word.” She says, a little louder, a little more confident. “I will go.” The news was announced quickly and preparation was swiftly underway, Clover dashing about her house as a pony possesed as she collected her traveling cloak, her saddle bags, and whatever gear she might have needed, and even had the foresight to write a quick note and tack it to her door, citing that should she not return in two years time, that she was lost and for her library to be turned over her next-of-kin, whomever that might be, though, in her rush, she completely forgot her hoofkerchief. At exactly three past sun-high, the band of ponies left Clover's home, a small wind picking up around their hooves to urge them onwards, making the young mare's cloak flutter lightly as she attempts to turn her head, only to be turned aside by a grimacing Starswirl. “Don't look back, dear Clover. For it will only make you wish to return.” Starswirl says quietly, nudging her onwards, making her stumble for a step before she looks at him, and he nods her towards the rest of the herd of ponies, and she lets out a quiet breath before trotting after them, keeping pace as the ponies press on. As she goes, she looks all over The Shire, looking for signs of anypony she knew, anypony whom might want to talk with the librarian, but the hills were quiet, and most ponies were with family in the fields, enjoying a light snack and watching the foals play amongst themselves quietly. The green hills of The Shire fade from sight swiftly, and yet slowly, for Clover the Clever, smart pony that she was, was always thinking for a way to glance back to her home, her place, her comfort... and yet, she was declined this opportunity as the herd suddenly picks up the pace, galloping forwards, even Starswirl dashing past her, making her stumble before murmuring to the princesses to protect her and following. “Wait!” Clover's voice echoed as she started galloping to try to race after the rest of the herd, her cloak whipping out behind her as her saddlebags shifted on her flank. She could tell already, it was going to be a long journey. The unicorn lands passed quickly by, wild yet tame lands lived in by respectable folk who bid the herd a cheery hello was they went along their way, but those vivid lands of color and harmony quickly made way to the Lone-lands, a dreary place of quiet and where nopony lived, for the ground was not fit for growth. Abandoned homes riddled the road, of where ponies once lived when there was gems and rocks of worth around to be freed from their earthen homes, but were no longer. It had been May's finest days for the start of their travels, days passed quickly as the Princesses went about their sacred duties, eternally on time, but as May started to turn to June, the weather started to take a turn for the worst. “Wow, their weather pegasi must be really bad if the weather turned like that. We've got scheduled storms and the like, but that's only when we have to play catch-up.” Rainbow says, tilting her head. Twilight shook her head. “Like Clover stated, this was in the Lone-lands, a bad-lands that is on the other side of the Everfree Forest, where the Shire is. Nopony lives out there, for there really is nothing there of worth. Not even a strategic point for an army.” “Well shoot Twi, ah' bet if 'nough Earth Ponies lived thar, they'd bring that land to life real quick!” Applejack says, giving Twilight a bright smile. Twilight smiled back and shook her head softly. “If it was possible, it would have been done already. The issue with the lone-lands is that the soil there is not exactly toxic, but not fit for growing anything in.” “What happens next? Do go on Darling! It must have been so GHASTLY to be in such... ugh, unfortunate weather.” Rarity says, shuddering at the thought of the mud and ick caused by such a storm. “Well, let me skip ahead a bit, the next few paragraphs are Clover ranting about the weather...” As they made their way into the hills on the other side of the lone lands, the weather worstened as they entered a more forested area, with large trees that spread wildly over the herd as they steadily climbed on. “Stratton, you're a weather pony, can't you do something about this incessant rain?” Armorglance grumbles at the pegasi as they trudged through the trees, their saddlebags not soaked, but certainly much wetter then they should have been. “Forgive me Sir Armorglance, but this storm is too much for one pegasi-” “I could handle it!” “Sssssh, Twilight's reading Dashie!” “And? I still could handle it!” “-and I fear that even the six of us are not quite enough to tame these winds. The clouds would return as quickly as we dispersed them.” Stratton says apologeticly, the tan furred and brown maned pegasi hanging her head in apology. Clover sighed to herself, “Drat and double drat that Starswirl. Where has he gotten off to? He would know a spell to keep us dry!” “Indeed, where has he gotten to?” Sky Eye says in wonder, looking about. Gigeroat coughs, drawing everypony's attention, and gestures towards some trees nearby. “Well, ah' reckon that we might as well stop 'ere abouts. Under these trees should be drah'er then anywh'er else 'round here.” The earth pony says with a nod, tilting his stetson. “Eeyup.” Yamaoat chimes in, followed quickly with a second group of agreements from Shim and Sham. Foreign Armorglance growled lowly, looking determined to continue on, but relents as he hangs his head, tired of the wet as much as anypony else, though quite unamused at having to stop. “Very well, we shall stay till the weather clears, or till dawn, whichever comes first. Besides, Luna is about to grace the sky.” He says. The herd quickly set about camp, and soon were attempting to light a fire, Shim and Sham arguing over the fint as both unsuccessfully tried to light the wet tinder. “Oh bother being a thief. I wish I where back in my Library, warm and cozy, reading the Shape of the Sky and picking out Luna's stars.” Clover muttered quietly to herself, thoroughly unamused and displeased with this adventure business so far. As the ponies settled in, a watch was set, and their best lookout, Sky Eye, quickly took up first watch, trotting about a perimeter to keep an eye out for timberwolves. A hour passed quietly, and without success for Shim and Sham, nor anypony else, for lighting a fire, as the rain slowed to a drizzle. Sky Eye was the first to spot the light glowing off in the distance. “Ho! There's a light over there!” The earth pony called, drawing the attention of the herd. “A traveler?” “No, nopony treads these dreary lands but us.” “Well, there are -fourteen- of us.” “Where has that magician gone off to?” “Send the Thief to find out!” “Yes, the Theif!” The chatter of the ponies drew Clover's attention from where she had curled to attempt sleep, making her raise her head as Armorglance trotted up to her side and nudged her to her hooves. “Clover the Clever, we are sending you out. You must find out all about that light! Scuttle off, quickly, and come back on swift and quiet hooves! If you can come back at all! If you can't, hoot twice like a barn owl, and once like a screech owl, and we shall come to assist you.” With those... encouraging, words, Clover was shoved ahead of the other ponies a*nd towards the light, and she took off at a light trot, pulling her hood up over her head, frowning. “Oh dear... I can't hoot like an owl ONCE, much less hoot like two different species! I don't think I could differentiate between the two either, for I haven't an owl to test such a thing...” Twilight sighs and shakes her head. “Having lived with an Owl for a while now, I can honestly say that it's very difficult to hoot like one.” “Who?” The aforementioned owl asks, looking up from his task of high dusting the shelves of the library. “You, silly!” Pinkie giggles as Twilight turns her head back to the book and flips a few pages. Clover crept closer and closer to the light, keeping low and breathing lightly, only for her ears to fold back and her eyes to widen in shock, barely resisting the urge to turn tail and flee as she saw the source of the light. “T-trolls...” “Trolls? What are they?” Rainbow Dash asks, tilting her head. Trolls, for those who are unaware, are nasty, beastly things, barely intelligent and a meat eating sort with a perchance for killing unwary travelers and turning them into stew. The common troll was at least six ponies tall and four wide, walking upon two legs and with big jaws and sharp teeth. These three were perfect examples of their species... if twice as stupid. “Oh. Cool.” Dash says, leaning forwards as she idly accepts a bowl of popcorn from Pinkie Pie. -Chapter End- Author's Note A/N: This seemed like a good spot to stop, and so I have! Welcome back everypony! And everyone else as well! I'm sorry about the wait, but I finally found my copy of the Hobbit (and remembered to bring it with me to the boat this time!) and as such, I've started writing The Unexpected Journeigh once again! Yep, no stopping it now, it's gonna happen! I've done a bit of re-writing, so make sure to re-read chapters one and two to recollect where we are in the story. I've changed a few things, so it should be a bit more of an entertaining read. So, back to it! -Your Lovely Authoress.
