Gateway to Harmony

As we approached the castle doors two guards posted at the outer wall started forward from either side. They galloped down the stairs connecting to the courtyard, and rushed to the entrance. Both open each door awaiting their princess. We pass the two, Princess Celestia bowing her head as we did as a sign of gratitude. The two colts bow back.

Our arrival is greeted by a second wave of day and night guards on either side of the corridor. I pass by them hearing murmurs throughout the rows of soldiers.

“What is that?”

“Is that that thing I heard about?”

“Yea that thing that crashed near the Everfree forest.”

“What is it doing here; I thought that thing was supposed to be some kind of monster.”

“I have no idea, but if the princess trusts that thing it can’t be any danger right?”

“I don’t know it wouldn't be the first time something has slipped passed the princess.” I turn to the whispering colts, they immediately go bug eyed with fear and look straight back down at the ground. I exhale a sigh of frustration. Winning over the trust of the princess might not be so difficult, however a whole nation.

My thought is interrupted. Out of the corner of my eye I see a distressed Twilight rushing down from the terrace above. She stumbles as she tries to stop herself before colliding with the princess. She begins to walk forward before she is halted by Celestia.

“Twilight I think it would be best if you stayed out here.”

“But princess!”

“Twilight, please.” The princess says in a slightly annoyed tone. Twilight bows her head as she moves away from our side. I look to Twilight giving a reassuring smile. Twilight raises her head and repeats the gesture as I enter through a second set of doors.

I maintain eye contact until the two doors a shut tight by nearby guards. I look forward to the princess. As I look around I notice this to be this some kind of throne room. Two royal guards are stationed at the base of the throne. The princess signals them to leave the room. They each go in the direction opposite of each other exiting the chamber. As Celestia seats herself at her throne I begin to speak.

“Looks like we finally get to have that civilized conversation after all.” I say with a grin on my face.

“You must understand the precautions we took. We had never seen anything like you before we could not be too careful.”

“Oh I forgive you. Honestly if the shoe was on the other foot, or hoof for that matter. My people would have probably done much worse. We are not exactly the most peaceful of people when it comes to the unknown.” I look down a discontent look on my face. I look up and sigh. After a few moments Celestia stands from her throne and begins to speak.

“I must apologize for being so abrupt, but I would like to fill the gaps left from our last confrontation if that is okay.”  The goddess says with a look of sympathy on her face. I raise my head.

“Very well, I pause to clear my throat before looking back at the eager mare, we call ourselves… humans.” The princess’ eyes narrowed as she bowed her head towards me.

“We are a proud race, ever growing and always expanding our reach across the cosmos. We originally inhabited a planet called Earth, a haven flourishing with life and serenity. We along with our fellow inhabitants lived in peace with nature.” I briefly glance up to see the princess still sporting a look of content.

Due to the non-existence of magic in our world we were forced to use science and invention to survive. Although as we continued to grow and advance we began to lose that connection with our home world. As this happened our needs grew and grew.  We believed that the Earth belonged to us, and we could just take what we wanted from it without consequence. We were so wrong. We all watched in horror as our once proud planet crumbled around us. People would fighting their brethren in the streets for what scraps were left behind. Eventually we came to see that the damage we had done could not be reversed. So we left our planet leaving Mother Nature to take back what was rightfully hers. We traveled the galaxy searching for new homes. Colonies were established on surrounding planets. As we began to settle we vowed to never make the same mistakes again.”

I clenched my fists as memories that I had locked away years ago came flooding back into my mind. I was consumed by mixed emotions not knowing what to think.  Then suddenly I felt a soft presence on my shoulder. I look up to see the princess laying her right wing upon me. She formed a small smile before speaking.

“I can’t pretend to understand the things that have happened in your life. I have never known a world without magic to hold it together. Your people still managed to understand and correct their past mistakes, but that does not mean they are easy to live with. You are strong Captain Robert never forget that. You have lived with the burdens of your people. Now, here, this new world can finally offer you peace.” I begin to loosen my once iron grip to a calm state. I begin to breathe steadily.

“As long as I can remember all I wanted was peace. The world around me was anything but. I let the hatred and fears of the people around me consume my life. I was led astray from my purpose, but this… place can give me what I have always so desperately desired. Thank you.” We both smiled as the princess and I walked to the doors exiting from the throne room.

As we approached a yellow spectrum coated the horn of the mare and soon after engulfed the two wooden slabs. They slowly opened to the familiar large corridor still teaming with guards. They all snapped to attention as we came into sight.  The princess signaled them to resume their previous activities. The bodies of the surrounding soldiers loosened though their eyes still followed my position as I was led out of the corridor to a separate section of the castle.

Out of the corner of my eye I could see a small spark followed by a faint glow. When I turn to my side I saw Twilight attempting to catch up with us. She speeds up as she comes to my side.

“So…” The purple mare asks inquisitively.

“Everything is fine my dear student. All past issues have now been resolved.” Twilight lets out a satisfied sigh of relief.

“So is it okay if R.J. returns back to Ponyville with me?”

“I understand you have grown quite attached to our guest; however I still think it would be best if Captain Robert stayed in the castle for the time being, until we can properly introduce him to the public.” I think back to the room of royal guards. A look of disappointment forms on Twilight’s face.

“Hey, chin up. It isn't like we can’t still visit each other. Besides once we get everyone acquainted with me we can hang out without all the awkward stares.” I chuckle a bit at the last statement. Twilight looks up a grin on her face.

“Alright, I guess I should probably head back into town. You know my studies and all.”

“Yes Twilight, I will be sure to arrange some time for you two to spend together for now I bed thee farewell my faithful student.” Twilight nods as she turns around heading back for the corridor. I continued down the separate hallway with the princess.