When the Silent Fall

Chapter Seven – Awake.

         Shuur felt odd, he was floating. Soon the realization hit him, he was nowhere again. No, something was different, he was somewhere now. He slowly opened his eyes expecting his HUD, instead his vision was blank. He moved a hand up to his vision, seeing it was un-armored worried him. Shuur looked to the rest of his frame, and found himself in a rather extravagant robe. He almost panicked, was he dead? Did the battle truly leave him so drained? He looked all around the perpetual white background, trying to find an anchor to reality. Soon he heard a faint chuckle, one that was just a little too familiar. There was a flash of light, and an evident oddity stood in front of him.

“Hello Shuur, it is good to see you well. I had almost feared that you perished from energy loss.” Shuur stared at Harmony; it was as if she was everything at once, but still just one entity. She chuckled again, “None have seen my form and lived, so there are no words to describe me yes?”

Shuur nodded, “No, I know many a language, but never heard of words to describe something like you.” He looked over his own form, “And thanks for this.” He said as he brushed the robe, removing any wrinkles.

Harmony smiled; at least Shuur thought it was a smile. “I apologize as I had to look into your dormant mind to find some pleasant attire for you, armor is honorable but there is no need for it here.” Shuur studied his robe further, it was exactly as he wanted it to be, a Templar white base while having exquisite gold lacing to personify the Great journey.

He mentally sighed, “And yet, such an event evades me. I believe I am beginning to see a pattern.”

He ceased his studies as he knew exactly what the robe looked like, and then Harmony spoke. “Also, your thoughts can be heard as well, sorry I didn’t warn you sooner.”

Shuur physically sighed, “I had guessed so, and you beings are a strange lot. You have such power, yet can only be seen upon death, or in my case a coma.” He scratched his lower mandibles thoughtfully, “Or is it that I am going mad?  It would not surprise me if that is so.”

Harmony shook what Shuur assumed was a head, “No you are not mad, neither a coma. You are simply reaching a near awake point, when your sub-conscious roams and consciousness is near. Or as your people call it, Rapid Eye Movement sleep.”

Shuur nodded approvingly, “Makes sense, but I digress, what honor do I have for this visit?”

Harmony looked surprised, “Oh yes, I was going to tell you that you have new abilities. Powers if you would, though it is up to the viewers to decide if you keep them.”

Shuur was more confused than usual, “Viewers? Like a show or play?”

Harmony shook her many, not so many heads “No, how to explain this. Ah, yes. Okay, the worlds and realms are made by The Writers. Our world more specifically, was created by a Writer named The_Doctor_Who.” This proclamation made no sense to Shuur, a world made by writers? Harmony spotted his confusion, then sighed, but still continued. “There are four beings above us, each I will name and briefly explain.” Shuur prepared his mind for a scarring of reality. Harmony cleared her throat, “First off are rare The Publishers, who review a Writers story making sure it crosses no boundaries or rules. Second are The Writers who have a higher populous than The Publishers, and they write a story to be reviewed then aired. Thirdly are the Proofreaders, they edit a Writers story to be more perfect, fixing mistakes and adding detail. Finally, there are The Viewers, they are most common. Though do not take their low rank as a given, they hold more power than a Publisher does. They ‘read’ a Writers story, liking, disliking or adding a favorite to said story. A Writers goal is to write a story to be liked and viewed by many Viewers, adding to The Writers story popularity, and said Writers ratings.”

Harmony finished her statement in a voice of pure factual information. Shuur stood on air, dumbfounded, his mind grinding Shuur’s knowledge against this new info. After a short eternity, Harmony spoke again.

“I can see you are getting close to re-entering the world of Equestria. Just make sure to watch your mind Shuur.” Harmony grinned at the similarities between the word and his name, “Goodbye Shuur, be sure to say ‘Hi’ to Celestia and Luna for me.” she snickered as Shuur watched the world fade into grey, “Sure and Shuur, I remember that one.” Soon everything continued fading into black, then a colorless void, he was alone again. Shuur felt a headache coming on, and shut his eyes to the void, severing the connection.

(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)

Shuur heard a noise, like a monotonous beep. Wait, it was a monotonous beep. He opened his weary eyes, only to shut them quickly as the sun’s rays pierced his cornea. He let the light filter through his eyelids before trying again. He was more successful this time as he actually managed to see his surroundings, save for the edge of his vision which was still a blurry glow. He glanced towards the noise, only to see a prehistoric pacemaker, he was in a hospital. He blinked the glow away from his vision, looking to the left he saw something he did not want to see. Just off the side of the bed was a row of 2 short tables, both required to hold thier tremendous load. He looked at the faint twinkle as the sunlight danced off of his armors reflective metal. Shuur looked down, moving the covers, only to find himself covered in a ragtag medical dress. This discovery wanted to make him roar in anger; it looked like it was sewed together by many others to cover his form. He breathed in deeply, before an intense pain made him stop. He clutched his side, only to regret the action as more pain joined the former.

He quickly rested his arms to his sides, away from any now obvious pains on his body. He lay sullenly for the better part of an hour. Nothing to do but count the tiles of the ceiling, look out the distant window, and look over the damage to his armor. He couldn’t see much but he saw the new nicks and dents from his recent battle with a god. After concluding his search he discovered it was just past sunrise as the distant wisps of orange disappeared from the clouds. He began to hear hoof steps as doctors and nurses went about checking on their designated patients. Shuur sighed, “Why is it always the hospitals? Why not a combat field, or in a training camp?” Shuur pondered the query to himself, he thought better of it though as such thoughts could poison his liking for such areas. Soon after Shuur heard the familiar voice of Twilight, and it was approaching.

“Yes doctor I understand that he is probably still not awake, but it never hurts to see.” Her voice was carrying a hint of authority he noted.

A different voice chimed in, “Yah, c’mon Doc! I just gotta know what flavor of cake he wants at his ‘Thanks for saving Equestria from an evil god’ party! Ooh, I hope its chocolate, or maybe vanilla, what if it’s an alien flavor?!? Oh that wouldn’t be so good if we couldn’t even bake him his favorite cake!” Shuur sighed at the sound of Pinkies voice, a known face was welcome, but she was rather annoying. He watched as a set of shadows came in front of his door.

Another voice followed, he assumed it was the doctor, “Well girls here we are, again, for the last time I still doubt he would be awake after such a beating, it has only been two days.”

Twilight retorted rather fast, “He said his kind heals faster than others so he should recovers faster than the usual patient, even if we don’t know how the healing magic will affect him.” Shuur was slightly relieved to hear that he was at least cared for, even more so towards the fact that their magic medicine was much more adaptive than that of a regular vile. He heard the door latch un-hook from its regular position, followed by said door swinging inward. Twilight continued, “Besides, I have questions for him, and he’s immobilized this time.” Shuur cringed at the details of Twilights visit, and she was right, he couldn’t move. As they entered, they saw him in his upright position; even sitting in a bed he was taller than them. Twilight smiled, “Oh Shuur, you’re awake, that’s great!” She turned to the unicorn doctor, “Told you so,” she said in a mock tone then turned back to Shuur, only to be interrupted by Pinkie Pie.

Soon the mass of poofy pink hair that was Pinkie was all Shuur could see, “Ooh, Shuur! Your awake! At first we were all like, Oh No, then like, Get Help! Then we were all sad because you were hurt, now we’re gonna be happy because your fine! By the way, what’s your favorite flavor of cake?”

Shuur clicked his mandibles in annoyance, a lot louder without his helmet. Pinkie almost took a look of fear, he could also hear Twilight mumbling, “So mandibles also act as a way of showing emotion, much like a ponies face. So all the other muffled clicks I heard were the same thing.” Shuur didn’t like being researched, it made him feel isolated, more so than usual.

He spoke up in his own defence, “Twilight, I’m not in the mood for tests and questions, nor the condition,” he turned to Pinkie, “And I believe I will try a ‘chocolate’ cake Pinkie.” Pinkie smiled wildly, soon backing off the bed and happily bouncing away.

Twilight sighed, “Fair enough, though I do need one crucial one answered now.”

Shuur groaned, “Very well, what is it?”

Twilight took a rather serious face, “Ahem, Princess Celestia and Luna were wondering how you were doing should you wake up.” Shuur was a little less than surprised, of course it was serious, the princesses had asked it.

Oh well, better answer, “I’m a little sore, but fine for now. Also, see to it that they know that Harmony sends her regards.” Twilight looked a little confused with the mention of the goddess’s name, but nodded and wrote something down on a scroll.

She finished and looked up, “Alright, though I’m not sure who Harmony is, I’ll make sure the Princesses see this, thanks.” Shuur was surprised she did not know, she was an Element Bearer after all.

Shuur nodded before the doctor stepped in, a little annoyed, “Alright Miss Sparkle, you should leave. As the patient stated, he is not ready for visitors and requires rest.”

Shuur disagreed, “I said I’m in no mood for tests and questions, a friendly chat would chip away at the boredom, or do you have other reasons for wanting everyone else to leave?”

The doctor sighed, “Fine, but no more than one pony at a time.” Shuur thanked the doctor as he left, closing the door behind him. He turned to Twilight, who was just sitting down.

He decided to speak first, “So would you mind telling me how you got off my armor?”

Twilight looked thoughtfully back into her memories, “It wasn’t easy, it was very well attached, we had to teleport the entire thing off. Then the weight problem presented itself, what is it made of anyway?”

Shuur waved a hand, “It supposed to be well attached, and the material is a secret.”

Twilight sighed, “Oh well, anyway, did you want to talk about something specific?”

Shuur scratched the bottom of his mandibles, “Nothing particular, why don’t you tell me about the past two days?”

Twilight nodded, “Of course now where to start, oh, how about right after the battle?”

Shuur shrugged, “Why not.” And so, Twilight began her tale starting right on about how the princesses and the Elements waited for the smoke to settle after the fight, but not before a patrol of guards was sent in first…

(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)

“…And then we found out that none of the gowns would fit you, so Rarity did a quick patch job and sewed a few together, you would not believe the fit she threw though. After the doctors patched the majority of your wounds, you seemed fine so we set you down in an isolated wing of the Canterlot hospital, specifically a side that knew about you.” Shuur nodded for about the tenth time since the story started, they had taken very direct action, some of which surprised Shuur. Especially the excuse that the explosion was simply Luna testing a new modern day spell, she even went with the demeaning story, though Celestia still apologized afterwards. There was also a very good handout to the ponies that actually saw what happened, Shuur didn’t like that part, and they should’ve been able to obey the will of their monarch’s wishes without payment.

Shuur looked out the window; it had only been about two hours since Twilight started her story. On the bright side, he was that he was starting to feel better, just enough that he didn’t feel like he was bending bones every time he moved.

Shuur shuffled uncomfortably in his bed, it was much too small for him, he even heard it creak under his weight occasionally.

A grumble filled the room, Twilight blushed, “Oh - um, sorry. I haven’t even had breakfast yet, and now it’s lunchtime.”

Shuur’s stomach rumbled as well, fearsome as ever, “Aye, I too have missed a meal. Though I doubt the food here is great, I suppose I will deal with it.”

Twilight flicked a hoof awkwardly, “Well um, sorry but I probably should leave anyway, though I’ll make sure to bring you something better than hospital food later. Bye!”

Shuur waved as Twilight left, and then closed the door with her magic. An audible click was heard, and Shuur was alone again. He sighed as he tried to rest his back against the headrest of the bed. Only to receive a violent crack in response, he grumbled about the beds poor structure and lay down instead. He stared at the ceiling fan, an item he missed before, watching the blades whirl around in slow continuous motion. This place was driving him mad! He was a soldier of action, not a civilian used to such dull life. That and he wanted to learn about the powers that Harmony described.

He remembered her saying something about watching his mind, what was that supposed to mean? Something else struck Shuur, there was a noticeable, aura to everything. It was like someone had spread a faint red layer of paint to the air around edges of every object of the room.

“I wonder…” Shuur let his mind stretch out, and closed his eyes. He was surprised when he was greeted by the sensation of touch, as if he was spread out and could feel everything. He focused on a glass of water beside his bed; soon the aura seemed to focus on the cup. Shuur felt every detail of it, the clear smooth glass, the slight curve inward from the top to bottom, and even the cold water and small company name branded into the bottom. Shuur pictured the cup floating from its spot, nothing happened. Upset, Shuur focused on the glass, putting every inch of will into moving it. Soon the cup teetered, and then shakily rose from the nightstand. Shuur opened his eyes, watching the cup float lazily to him. He reached out his hand and...  a knock at the door broke his concentration. The glass slipped from his mental grip, spilling its contents onto the bed sheets and his gown. Shuur openly cursed and moved away from the now wet patch on the bed, pain searing at him as he did.

He looked up to his perpetrator seeing a nurse step in with a trolley topped with what Shuur assumed was food. His nose told him that it was a distilled formation of vitamins and other bland tastes. Then Shuur sniffed again… no… it couldn’t be… The unicorn nurse took a plate of food from a small bottom compartment. On said plate was a pile of apples. Shuur rubbed his eyes in disbelief; the nurse chuckled awkwardly at the sight of the alien.

She placed the plate on his lap, still eyeing him as if he’d eat her instead. She cleared her throat, “Ahem, the apples are a gift from Sweet Apple Acres; we’ve had them in storage for when you awoke.” Shuur thanked her, wanting to gorge on the sweet juicy delights in front of him, but holding back in order not to scare the nurse more. She slowly backed out; nearly forgetting the trolley, then shut the door. The moment she left, he instantly began to eat, stuffing an apple in quickly. It had only just occurred to him that it had actually nearly been a week since he last ate, and he was ravenous. He ate apple after sweet juicy apple in rapid succession, ignoring the fact that his stomach had probably contracted heavily and would regret this later. Not 30 seconds later, Shuur finished, and was already feeling his feeding frenzies effects. His stomach gurgled at the sudden over flow in the once empty space, trying to expand fast enough. He clutched his gut; he had not expected this so soon, obviously no food for six days was rather devastating to one’s digestive track. Shuur forced himself to hold the food; he was not vomiting up his only meal in six days, especially not apples.

Once he had his gut under control, he thought back to how he moved the cup. Obviously this is what Harmony meant by powers, but he had not expected them to be of the psychosis variety. He closed his eyes again, sensing the room around him. He found the pitcher he was looking for, full of water. He decided he needed more practice before trying both multiple items at once and pouring himself a glass of water. He picked up the cup from the bed with his new found telekinesis, berating himself for not mentioning the spill to the nurse, and placed it in the palm of his hand. He opened his eyes, reaching for the pitcher and grabbing it with a firm grip, he wasn’t spilling again. He carefully poured the life giving water out into the cup, six days without water was nearing a fatally dangerous level of thirst. Once full, he brought the cup of water up to his maw, drinking slowly as to not upset his stomach again. He repeated the process until he emptied the pitcher, his stomach gurgled again, but it didn’t threaten to reject the matter this time. Shuur let out a contempt sigh, he was full, healing and, more or less, happy.

He lay back, putting the now empty pitcher in its place, and then proceeded to test his powers again. He continued to practice control for an hour or so, before he heard the sound of familiar voices. Placing the cup down on the table, Shuur readied himself for Pinkie Pie, her voice mumbled up with the others but still present. After making sure everything was in order, he heard the door begin to open, the voices louder and clearer now.

“Okay, alright! I’ll ask him, sheesh!” said a rather flustered Twilight. The rest of the ponies waited outside while Twilight approached. She was wearing a face of attitude that resembled anxiety, but still a smidgeon of confidence. Once she reached him she put on a better smile, but was still noticeably anxious, “Um, hi Shuur, how are feeling?”

“Fine, but a little confused,” He answered, “what is going on Twilight?”

She huffed, “Well, it’s just that the Princesses want to see you, then so do we all, and there is the ever present problem of what to do with you once you’ve recovered… again.”

He chuckled, “And I assume that you have been tasked with all of these orders?”

She nodded, “Yes, it’s not like I don’t have a lot of work most of the time, but it’s more like everypony won’t stop nagging for me getting it done faster than I can.”

Shuur put on a face of understanding, the Spec Ops missions were usually suicide for any other branch of the Covenant, and so missions were stressful and overwhelming at times. But the Spec Ops were trained to take stress, and asses combat situations even under mortar or aircraft fire, but this was a civilian with no training, it must have been excruciating for the poor mare. She let out a solemn sigh, “Oh well, anyway, I got a question that needs answering.”

Shuur nodded, “Yes, go on.”

Twilight was visibly flustered, “Er, the princesses were wondering if you would like to become a resident of Equestria, home and all.” Shuur was struck by the revelation; did they truly want him to be an Equestrian citizen? Even after such a short time? Shuur looked at the ceiling in thought, what to do what to do… He sat up for a while before answering, looking down to Twilights Questioning gaze.

He had decided, “I suppose if there is no way for me to go home… and I have no way of getting shelter otherwise then yes, I accept.”

Twilights smile rivaled Pinkie’s, “Great! That’s wonderful, just go to the palace when you recover, and see the princesses, they will get you signed into being a true citizen of Equestria!” Shuur chuckled at her reaction, and then he thought for a moment…

“Wait, I just signed up to be constantly annoyed by a curious purple unicorn, wishing to know all of my secrets. Wonderful.” Shuur mentally sighed, but physically ‘smiled’ as Twilight told the rest of her friends the news. Once she finished, there was the sound of cheers, in which were quickly silenced by the nurse accompanying them. They all gave a sheepish grin and each one apologized, before returning to idle banter. They spoke for a while before Twilight came back in, “Okay, so next you need to decide place of residence.”

Shuur sighed, “I doubt I could avoid you, might as well live close by for your convenience.” Twilight’s smile only grew somehow.

“That’s even better! Er, the Ponyville thing, not the annoying thing, which I shall try to refrain from.”

Shuur nodded, “Thank you, now, please depart. I am tired and require rest, goodbye Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight said her goodbyes as well, then turned and left. After she closed the door Shuur rested. As previously said, unconsciousness doesn’t count as sleep, but over eating has a way of making one tired as well. Shuur got comfortable and let the darkness take him. One last thought filled his head: “I hate this stupid gown.”And with that, Shuur was asleep.

(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)

Shuur felt a presence, an annoying one. He felt his lower left mandible being continuously prodded. His mind returned to consciousness, but instead of opening his eyes, he used his new magical sixth sense to see who it was. He was a little surprised to ‘see’ Scootaloo poking him with curiosity, prodding his mandible as if she was testing him for dead.

“Mister Eliteeeeee… C’mon Mister Elite, wake up.” said Scootaloo.

“Ah don’t think he’s getting up, you’ve been poking at him fer ‘bout ten minutes now, ah think he’s just tired.” said Apple Bloom in a slightly nervous voice.

Sweetie Belle spoke next, “Y… yah, I mean if he’s tired, wouldn’t he be angry if we woke him up? H… he might bite us now without his helmet on if he’s mad enough.”

Apple Bloom looked upset, “Aw c’mon now Sweetie Belle, he looked the same without his fancy helmet. We shouldn’t treat ‘im any different; he’s still saved us, and we are still his friends.”

Sweetie Belle looked ashamed, “Sorry, I know he’s the same but he still looks scary.”

Scootaloo laughed, “I think they’re pretty cool, I mean, what other things have a mouth like this?” She continued to prod him further, and annoy Shuur more.

He chose now as a time to speak, “My kinds jaws are a rarity, and I would also appreciate if you stopped.” His words made all three of the Crusaders gasp.

“Mister Elite!” They all shouted in unison.

Shuur rose from his original position, careful not to throw Scootaloo to the floor, “Has no one told you my name yet?”

“Yah, but it just felt weird saying Mister Shuur or Mister McHandy.” answered Scootaloo as she got down.

Shuur chuckled, “Mak-Han-ee, good try though. And no Sweetie Belle, I won’t bite, I am no animal.”

She gave a Sheepish grin before Apple Bloom spoke, “Sorry fer waking you up Mister Elite, but we just had to know if it’s true that you plan to live in Ponyville.”

Shuur nodded, “Yes I do, and once I have recovered I am talk to the Princesses about becoming a resident.” The Crusaders a looked giddy, “Wonderful, now I shall not only have to deal with Twilight, but now these few as well.” He looked out the window, surprised that it was just past morning. “Well at least I’m falling into this planets cycles. He looked down to the fillies, “Wait, how did you get here?”

Each one gave a sheepish grin, “Well, we uhm…”

Shuur raised his left eye ‘brow’ “Yes, go on, where are your parents?”

“Well, we sort of… snuck out.”

Shuur clicked his mandibles, “You did what?”

They smiled again, “We just had t’ know if you’re really living in Ponyville, so we figured we’d come and see yah and maybe get our Cutie Marks as escapee’s.” Their sheepish smiles grew as Shuur face palmed. “Also, um, we don’t have enough money for tickets back…”

Shuur was a little, no, very disappointed with them. “So, I was asleep, you snuck out, woke me up, and now are telling me you haven’t enough money to return home?” They all gave nervous nods. Shuur looked down at them, letting his disappointment show.  They all seemed to back away, afraid he’d lash out. Shuur let out a hefty sigh, or more like a growl, “Well I’m feeling better today, so much so I might even be released from this wretched place… As for you lot, I am rather disappointed in you all, you should have packed more coin.”

Their nervousness died down a little, “So you’re not mad because we left?”

Shuur chuckled, “I make my living off of sneaking, you simply failed in preparation.” Before they could comply Shuur spoke again, “Though I doubt any of your parents have the same opinion, once I am out I will find a way to contact them, I too have no local currency.”

They all sighed solemnly, until Sweetie Belle perked up, “Wait, if you are being released today and are going to see the Princesses…”

Scootaloo continued, “Then they might have a way to send us home…”

And Apple Bloom finished, “An’ we could say that we were just waiting fer you today, that’s why we were gone so early!”

“I suppose it would work, but that depends if the Princesses will co-operate.” replied Shuur. Soon a knock at the door pushed them all out of their planning. “Come in.” stated Shuur. Soon the doctor from yesterday came in through the doorway.

He looked up, spotting Shuur he cleared his throat, “Ah, here we are. I’m here for your examination, will take but a second I assure you.”  Shuur nodded, the doctor stepped over to Shuur, lit his horn aglow with gold and scanned Shuur. Once he finished, he had a rather surprised look on his face, “Well that’s interesting, your wounds are but little less than bruises now.” Shuur ‘smiled’, he knew it, he was ready to leave. The doctor stared a little longer before reacting, “Well, I suppose you are free to go as you please, your forms were filled in advance by the Princesses. All that’s left to do is replace your armor.” Shuur watched as he lifted said armor off the table, and then his horn shone with a brighter golden light, leaving a flash of white light to cover his vision. Shuur felt the comfortable weight of his armor, he was also standing. He looked to the doctor who was holding as his old gown with a hoof, visibly strained.

Shuur thanked him, and then motioned for the Crusaders to follow him out. They obliged, darting quickly from the chair they all shared, one by one. He began to walk out of the room, until he heard a gasp. Shuur turned to his left to see a nurse he was unfamiliar with. He cursed his leniency before promptly cloaking and crouching, then following the exit signs again. Halfway through, he looked out a nearby window. He saw that this window had a particularly good view of the city as he watched ponies go about their daily business, blissfully unaware of the alien studying them. He stared into the heart of the city, until he noticed that a certain three red dots had gained considerable ground on him. He took a final glance before following the Crusaders, not wanting to fall behind too far.

They finally reached the front door exit, even though it was the same amount of time before, but Shuur swore it took longer. Once they were all outside, the Crusaders began moving towards an alley, obviously wanting to talk. Once they reached the end of the alley, Shuur un-cloaked.

“Well, what do yah plan on doin’ now?” asked Apple Bloom.

“As I said before, I need to meet with your Princesses, which means going to the palace.” The Crusaders all nodded in approval.

“Well then, we’re coming with you.” said Scootaloo, voice almost sounding demanding.

Shuur nodded, “Very well, but I doubt that you will be allowed into the throne room, but stranger things have happened. Let us move.” And with those words, Shuur cloaked and they were off.

(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)

“Finally!” Shuur mentally yelled. They had been walking in circles for about an hour or so. As it turned out, not all roads lead in the direction they start out as. Also, being he had three small fillies with him, Shuur could not simply jump from rooftop to rooftop. The fillies sat down in front of the gate, each one panting from the straight up hour long walk around various hills, slopes and cobble paths.

A guard approached them, “What are three fillies doing at the Royal Palace?”

Scootaloo looked up to him, nearly out of breath she replied, “We… came to… see… the Princesses…*Pant*”

The guard raised an eye brow, “On what grounds?”

Sweetie Belle spoke up, “We… brought… a special… guest…”

The guard’s eyes widened, “Right this way misses.”

They all let out a tired sigh before standing and following the guard inside. Shuur followed, but a shadow in the sunlight, hiding in plain sight. They walked through various halls, each one vaguely familiar to Shuur. After some more walking, they came upon a door with a moon and sun insignia. There were three audible ‘wumps’ as the Crusaders collapsed from exhaustion. The guard turned to them,

“You three may stay out here, and you, whoever or whatever you are, may come inside.” With that, the guard opened the door, they slid soundlessly against their hinges and flowed as smooth as calm water. Shuur was at the least surprised, they knew how to clean up fast. There was absolutely no sign of the battle that ensued here, the windows were fixed the drapes re-sewed, and the thrones restored. Shuur also noted the murals on the stained glass windows, pictures of events long passed. Then he noticed something that surprised him, a mural of Twilight and her friends a smilingly blasting a panicking Discord. Shuur smiled, oh what a fool that so called ‘god of chaos’ was, defeated by ponies and now him.

The guards voice broke him from the stupor, “Your Majesty, the special guest has arrived.” he said in a bowing position.

Celestia smiled then said, “Thank you Strongback you may go, but please have a message sent to my sister, she is to be here for this as well.” Strongback stayed in a bow for a moment longer before heading out the doors. Celestia looked around the room, “You may come out Shuur, most of my guard know of your existence. That and we have very important matters to discuss.” Shuur complied near instantly, his shimmering form appearing as he stepped forward.

“So I have heard, may I ask why you wish to make me a citizen?” He said in a perplexed tone.

She nodded, “Yes, you have acted fairly. Every chance you had to harm us, you didn’t. But, every chance you’ve had to assist us, you have done so with little to no questions.” Shuur ‘smiled’ at her response, he supposed he was good, but, not always. This world had taught him much in the time he had stayed here, and now a life here? It was almost too good to be true, almost. While he liked Equestria, there was little to no chance for the gaining of honor. No armies to slay, or demons to hunt, he was contemplating how bored he might get. Shuurs thoughts were broken by the throne room doors opening, rather violently he might add.

“Sister! You know that I need sleep, just as much…” Luna stopped when she sighted Shuur. “Oh.”

Celestia chuckled, “Yes, now we have important matters to discuss so please, sit.” Luna complied, trotting up to her night sky blue throne; Shuur wondered what it was made of to have such a peculiar color. Luna straightened herself out, looking much more regal, she began staring at Shuur.

He felt slight unease under her glare before Celestia spoke, “Shuur ‘Makhanee, we see it fit that you become an honorary member of Equestria, do you accept?”

Shuur never hesitated, “I, Shuur ‘Makhanee, accept your invitation to become a citizen of Equestria.”

Celestia smiled, “Excellent, but first you must hear our laws, as you are obviously, no pun intended, alien to them. Luna if you will.”

         Luna cleared her throat, “Law one, by no exceptions will murder of another citizen be tolerated. Punishment is meet-able by banishment. Law two, necromancy is an illegal act, and punishable by banishment. Law three, stealing an item from another citizen of Equestria is punishable by a maximum of 5 years prison arrest.  Law four, any and all acts of offence to another citizen of Equestria will be tried, and is punishable by a maximum of 5 months prison arrest. Law five…” As Luna continued, Shuur saw Celestia lean on one of the arm rests visibly bored.

He was then surprised to hear her voice in his head, “She truly is devoted to her duties, I would have simply gone over the more serious laws, then allowed you to sign the official documents.”

Shuur mentally replied, “Aye, but how long is the list of laws?”

Celestia sighed, “Let’s just say that with all the new laws combined with the old, you may want to find a way to fall asleep with your eyes open.”

Shuur was about to agree, before he remembered something crucial, “That is a problem, I have three small fillies awaiting my return so we may go home. I doubt that they can last a long period of time being bored, they don’t spend a single second of any day not in action.”

Celestia perked up at his response, before looking over to Luna. “Luna, I’m sure that Shuur understands that anything that seems like a bad idea, is probably bad.”

Luna huffed, “Aw com on Cely I never get to do any important government matters. Besides, Law one-hundred and seven is good one, and it’s only ninety nine more!”

Celestia shook her head, “I’m sorry, but Shuur has places to be, fillies to return home, and a home to gain himself.”

Luna raised an eye brow looking in Shuurs direction, “What are you doing with three fillies?”

Shuur sighed, “They came to my hospital room earlier today, and as I learned they haven’t enough money to return.”

Luna frowned, “Oh very well then, here” She said taking out a scroll, quill and inkwell from behind her throne. Celestia then moved a desk from beside her throne, placing it near the soon to be Equestrian. Shuur thought this was good time to show off his new found abilities. He took the quill from Luna’s magical grasp, and then held the scroll and inkwell in place using his own telekinesis. Luna’s eyes widened as he did so.

Celestia looked over to her, “What is it, something on the moon Luna?”

Luna shook her head, “No it is just that I am no longer holding the scroll or inkwell.” Celestia joined Luna’s dumbfounded expression, staring at the inkwell and scroll. In fact, when she looked hard enough, there was a red aura about the scroll and inkwell, not unlike a unicorn’s telekinetic grasp. As Shuur finished signing it in Sangheilian, he floated the items back to Luna, save for the Ponyville house deed. He then thanked them in Sangheilian, and English, before moving towards the door.

He took one last look back at the Princesses, and chuckled, “Something I picked up from a certain God of Harmony.” with that, he opened the door and left. Celestia and Luna looked at each other, and then shrugged, what harm could a little magic do after all? Oh how the following days would prove them wrong. Once Shuur was through the doorway, two guards closed the door behind him. He turned to the Crusaders, all with giddy expressions plastered onto their faces. He smiled back, “Let’s go home, shall we.” They all nodded furiously, obviously excited to both go and live in the same town as alien, not many towns in Equestria can brag about that. Shuur started walking towards the exit, Crusaders in tow. Once they reached the front gates, Shuur was tempted to cloak. He decided against it, if he was a citizen, then he should walk like one. He stepped outside completely visible, not even looking at the townsfolk reactions as he made his way towards the train. Even without looking, he saw ponies stop to look at him, even crash into one another. He allowed himself a silent snort as the reaction spread throughout the town, each pony, no matter a higher end or lower class, stared in disbelief. He didn’t blame them, seeing a eight foot tall alien walking down your capitals road with three fillies in tow wasn’t a common sight.

After some slightly more accurate navigating, they reached the train. He felt a prod on his armor shin. Shuur looked down to see Apple Bloom poking him, but before she could speak, he raised a hand. “Worry not little one, I will handle it.” He walked toward the ticket boot, kneeling so the conductor could see him. He saw a smoke grey stallion with a black mane and blue cap resting in a chair. Shuur tapped the counter for attention. The stallion opened a droopy eye, but the moment he saw Shuur he nearly broke his eyelids. The pony let out a startled cry before falling out of his chair, landing as a shaking heap on the floor. Shuur suppressed a laugh, talking as calmly as he could he asked a simple question: “May we have one free ride?” The stallion seemed to calm a little hearing his native tongue but still too scared to stand.

“S… sure, just please, don’t hurt me!” Shuur sighed, must have been new, this is the way he suspected that they brought him to Canterlot. He turned back to the conductor and thanked him. Shuur backed away, returning to full height; then he looked back to the Crusaders, worried looks on their faces.

“Don’t worry; I got us a ride back for free.”

The Crusaders a sighed in relief, “Ah almost thought that we were gonna get stuck here.” said Apple Bloom. Just then the sound of a whistle got their attention. Shuur turned around, seeing an ancient train pull into the station. Even for Equestria’s low technology, the train looked out of place at the capitals station. The moment the doors opened, a flood of ponies poured out, most of which had business suits or nothing at all.

Upon seeing the gargantuan red giant standing in front of them they mostly stopped, though, some only slowed or didn’t even notice. After a while some passed him off as a statue then moved on, others were still dumbstruck. Then, the flow died out as the few ponies left exited the train. He began moving towards the train before, all of a sudden, every frozen pony began running away, some even screaming something about a monster. He ignored them, boarding the train.

If he thought that some of the buildings were low roofed, then this was toy train height to him. The roof was only about four, maybe five feet high, Shuur basically had to bend himself in half in order to get inside. Once actually in the fifth car back, he decided that heading to the rear was a good idea. He also found out that that the doors were excessively small as well. After a full minute of trial and error, he figured out a way for him to turn his shoulders to fit. He had just sat down in the very back, when he heard the conductor yelling out for all to get aboard. The Crusaders took a seat next to him, all fitting snuggly in the same one. He looked down at them, “We had better go over your plan for arrival, let us talk.” The fillies agreed, and as the train gave a sudden jerk then a blow of the whistle, they were off.

(

ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)

“…And so, that will make it look like we were actually there the whole time.” finished Scootaloo. Shuur nodded in agreement, it was a surprisingly solid plan, and even a well thought through back up plan should one of them be spotted moving up to the train. Shuur looked out the window; they were close enough now to see the ponies waiting at the station. A particular orange pony wearing a particular tan hat caught his attention.

“Ooh, so close.” He stated. The Crusaders each looked up at him, then the rose up to look out the window behind him. They all let out panicked gasps, each one now looking between the other nervously. Shuur looked again, seeing that Applejack was not alone; each Element was standing in front of a cars designated location. As they came to a halt, the train gave off an audible phoom, then a blow of its whistle. The doors opened automatically, and ponies began filing out of each car. The Elements began to focus on the rear car, which apparently contained no passengers. Applejack began a steady trot over, finally reaching the car, and peering inside. She saw that Shuur was couching un-cloaked pointing for the Crusaders to go. She cleared her throat, catching all of their attention.

“Now what in tarnation were you three a thinkin’?” she said in a voice stronger than ever, “You all coulda gotten foalnapped, or lost up in Canterlot!” she continued, staring down Apple Bloom the hardest. Shuur began to make his way out, before AJ stopped him. “Hey Shuur, thanks fer bringin’ ‘em back, means a lot to us.” said Applejack, voice a little calmer.

He waved a hand, “Think nothing of it, now, I have a mayor to meet if you don’t mind.”

Applejack tipped her hat to him, “Truly Shuur, thanks. Oh, and th’ town hall is near th’ center of town. Just keep followin’ th’ path from here on in, yah can’t miss it.” Shuur thanked her, moving towards the implied direction, sounds of Applejacks berating’s towards the fillies still present in the background. He wished his friends luck, if they were to survive the verbal thrashing, they would need it. Also, it was a shame such careful planning had gone unused.  Shuur was at the least, surprised at how well Scootaloo had formulated the plan. He dare say it was worthy enough for a Spec op to follow in an operation. As he trekked further in town, he noted the amount of ponies giving him odd glances and simply freezing in place where non-existent. Not a single pony stood and stared at him, the most he got was a roll of the eyes. He was going to need some input on this.

After walking further into Ponyville he came across a two story building, or at least Shuur assumed it had two floors, it was hard to tell with the way ponies made structures. Banners atop poles riddled the roof, while swaying slightly in the breeze. A large set of double doors rested in the center on a deck, marking the entrance. Shuur stepped onto the front deck, wood groaning from the sudden weight. He opened the doors wide, and to his surprise, it actually looked rather good inside. Sure it looked like it was bigger on the inside, but just the way the tall poles supported the decorated podium inside looked great. All of the woodwork and furnishings were evenly spread out, and looked as if they could be moved aside with a moment’s notice.

Another thing Shuur noted was the sound of a quill scratching against paper, rather furiously. He moved deeper within the creaky old structure, finding a white maned, tan coated Earthly mare sporting a scroll and blue ribbon cutie mark. Shuur still hated the phrase, cutie mark, but nonetheless he had a mayor to speak to. Shuur cleared his throat, the mare looking up from her papers, and upon seeing him… Did nothing much more than finish her scroll before rolling it up and placing it neatly with others.

She then looked up again, “Ah, you must be Shuur ‘Makhanee, I was told that we would be getting a special guest soon. I hear you have become an official citizen, as well as gaining a deed for a home here in Ponyville, is this true?”

Shuur nodded, “Yes, though I must say, nearly nopony here seemed at the least dazed by my appearance, was I announced to the public?”

The Mayor, or so Shuur assumed as she was the only pony here, shook her head. “No, in fact there would be no need. This town has seen many a strange thing, so much so it is no longer strange to see something strange, if that makes sense.”

Shuur sighed, “Knowing that could have helped when I first arrived. Oh well, here is my deed to a home here, may I know of its location?” The Mayor took his scroll in a hoof, unrolling it and letting her trained eyes study it carefully.

Once she concluded, she rolled it back up and gave it to Shuur, “Your new home is just out front from the Library, Twilights house, its address is 147. Here is the key and new deed, claiming ownership of the home.”

Shuur felt his eye twitch, “The Princesses placed me in front of Twilight, how thoughtful.” Shuur took the small golden key and new scroll, and then thanked the Mayor who nodded in reply before getting back to work. He couldn’t help but feel sorry for her, what a boring job she must have had. Shuur made his way out, closing the main doors behind him.

He followed a convenient map that came with the deed, following it until he came across a two story house, nearly all blank, no color garden decorations. Shuur guessed it was a recent add on, at least he had a choice for color and if he wanted some yard decorations. Shuur stood and stared at the blank building, he had never had an actual home to call his, sure, the Covenant military provided him with a home, but it wasn’t the same. The rooms he slept in were dull, coming with what one needed nothing for the owners comfort, a stiff bed, desk, bathroom, and a single light. This was an entire two stories of well-crafted wooden structure, made for one’s leisure. A home, a house, a yard, a true bed, a kitchen, a living room, and perhaps even a basement.

Shuur released a sigh of tranquility, he was truly home. He walked down the dirt path, perhaps he’d cobble that first, and reached towards the door handle. He used his key, turning it in the spot and… it slid as the house was unlocked. Part of Shuur was surprised; the other more dominant side knew exactly what was coming.

He opened the door, and then turned on the lights… “SURPRISE!” cried half the population of Ponyville. He stood solemnly, “This is going to be a long existence…” Shuur thought to himself.

Pinkie Pie bounced up to him, “Hiyah Shuur!” she chirped happily, “Welcome home! I knew that this was going to be your house because it was all bland and unused, and the only one left in Ponyville! Also the Mayor told me, but hey we got cake, games, cake, cupcakes, cake, pies, punch, hot sauce, even cake!”

Shuur raised a brow, “I am guessing that this ‘punch’ as nothing to do with violence?”

Pinkie giggled, “No silly, it’s a drink! Here, try some.” With that she bounced into the crowd of mingling ponies.

Shuur walked after her, only to be stopped by Twilight, “Hey Shuur, how’s the party so far?”

Shuur shrugged, “I just got here, and have never been to one before so how should I know?”

Twilight blushed, “Oh right, sorry. Let me tell you though, a Pinkie party is the best party, no doubt about it.”

Rainbow flew over, “Yah, no party even comes close to a Pinkie Pie party,” she looked away, “Ooh, they’re starting the games! See ya later Shuur!”

Shuur waved her good-bye, just then Pinkie Pie came bouncing back, impossibly balancing a glass of pinkish purple liquid with a slice of yellow fruit in it. “Here you are buddy, go on, drink up.”

Shuur was about to take the glass, before Twilight intervened, “I’ll take that, don’t worry, if it’s clean you’ll get it back Shuur.”

Shuur was a little confused “Clean? What does she mean by that?” Twilight lit her horn, the light gathering into a snaky wave before diving into the punch. Shuur saw that Pinkie Pie had a sheepish grin on, just then the punch turned a deep blue.

“Aha!” Twilight exclaimed before turning to Pinkie, “You spiked the punch!”

Pinkie kept up her embarrassed smile, “What? It’s not like a little cider hurt anypony, beside it make things funnier!”

Twilight shook her head, “We have no idea what cider would do to Shuur, alcohol could be poisonous to him!”

Pinkie pawed at the floor, “Sorry, I just wondered what it would do, beside nearly all of my parties have spiked punch.”

Twilight was about to retort, when Shuur started laughing. “What’s so funny?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

Shuur’s deep laughter slowed to a halt, “Nothing, just some old memories. You see, in my earlier days as a Spec op, my third mission to be exact; I came across a package of what I learned was human beer. I shared the spoils with the other Spec op troopers, only to find that when your species never truly developed a liver for alcohol, a Sangheili gets ‘drunk’ easy. I don’t remember much, but we ended up with a bill of 60,000 credits damage report, nearly got our entire squad disbanded as well. I haven’t had any odd human drinks since, too much risk.”

Shuur looked over to Twilight and Pinkie; both had big smiles on their faces. Soon both began to laugh, near uncontrollably. Shuur allowed himself to join the joyful banter; it was all fun and games in those days. After they all quieted down, they began to take turns about their first experiences with alcohol; soon the rest of the Elements had joined as well, even Fluttershy. As they continued, a thought crossed Shuurs mind.

Perhaps it wouldn’t be so painful afterall.

Hello, Doctor here, I would like to here if you like where I’m going with this. I personally like it, Shuur living in a magical land of ponies, having received magic himself, and now a ‘Slice of life’ as it were. I plan to make some more chapters about him living in Ponyville, as long as a majority like the story line, if not… Oh well, good Morning/day/afternoon/night to you all, Doctor out.