Twin Souls

Chapter 6

God

Business was booming, so to speak. Obviously with the arrival of an extremely unexpected guest, though regular, but still unexpected on the certain time date, it was the word of the town. Yes, the town, in fact the small town of Ironwing, just off the coast of the waters that met Equestria. A town only for the richest of the rich, it sat creeping over a ledge above the sea, held up by obsidian obelisks. These obelisks were constantly under spell to keep the whole place from coming down, but regardless, most tourists would say it’s a magnificent sight.

With a population of around fifty, the small village was close to nothing in terms of being an actual settlement, but none of that mattered. It’s true purpose is to guard an old statue of an ancient war hero, stationed at the center. His name was, not surprisingly, Ironhoof. Perhaps the greatest earth pony who ever lived, as historians say. He fought in the dead wars to the south several hundred years ago. His fellow brothers, both pegasus and unicorn were stationed elsewhere in their own respective cities. He was taken home when he was sealed by Screecher, the dragon of a thousand glares. Trapped within stone, they haven’t the slightest if he shall ever be released, much less alive.

Many historians claim that he could not be alive, mainly due to the fact that he isn’t a spirit. Others asked why this claim was to be considered. As accepted by mainly all who know of it today, the fact remains that a mortal body cannot last, even when imprisoned in stone. The entire reason other ancients, such as Discord could live was because he is immortal, and is a materialized spirit. With his recent turn in ways, they were able to discover that without his chaotic magic, his material body would fade into nothingness and his form would be lost forever.

When questioned, he simply said that there are hundreds like him, spirits just floating around the world, searching for a body. He was extremely lucky to be granted a body himself. Not obtained, but granted. Though when pushed further he wouldn’t say anything about who gave him the body, as if he was hiding something.

Small buildings inhabited the town, most of them untouched from the hundreds of years of history. Some were rebuilt under the kind care of those more fortunate. In fact, only select individuals were allowed to live in these houses. Selected by none other than Celestia herself. Speaking of Celestia, as where she sat, awaiting her date with uncertain patience.

He’s five minutes late...She thought to herself, becoming impatient with her date’s tardiness.

As soon as the thought passed, the doors opened revealing a stallion dressed in a typical black tuxedo. His not-so vibrant red fur was a simple result of old age. A mane inflicting the color of paper, giving his name purpose. Burning Books, as he was called. With the coat of fire, which seemingly destroys the tomes of knowledge in his hair. Though his entire name was quite ironic. A professor who indulges himself in books, wishes not to burn them. Then again, what sort of lifestyle would that be? A special talent? Nearly silliness in its greatest extent.

Greeted by, well, greeters at the front, the stallion politely made his entrance, already heading by instinct to the reserved table. His gentle sight met his mate, excitingly waiting his presence. Dressed in beautiful solar white dress, topped with several gold trinkets. Taking a seat across from her, he met her warm gaze.

“Where have you been? You’re five minutes late...” She said, a little disappointment in her voice.

Books coughed, “My apologies, my lady. It seems the mages had not the aptitude to keep the gates working. So I had to port myself here, one tiring spell at a time.” He finished with a frown.

“..You managed to get all the way here? How long ago did you leave? Are you okay?” She asked, worry in her tone.

Books waved a dismissive hoof. “It’s no problem my dear. I’ve been studying in that field for my whole life, had you not forgotten. The arcane of teleportation is still a mess to me, but regardless, I can manage to get twenty or so miles per spell.”

He laughed, “Better than any other spellcaster out there!”

She smiled, agreeing with him. “Surely you must be tired though. You’re not as young anymore, and as I would imagine, the act of several spells with that magnitude would do much to you.”

Books shook his head. “I was the greatest spellcaster in the country at one point. My pool is much larger than that. It would take much, much more to take me down.”

Celestia smiled, though faintly as her brow furrowed. “But what if you discharged? You can’t control yourself like you used to. If you did, even the thought...” She couldn’t finish, as her voice started to choke up.

Books grabbed her hoof, clutching it tightly. “My dear, have you forgotten who you speak to?”

“I am Burning Books, granted Master of Arcane. Magic is my life, as the thought of me losing control is unreasonable. I have seen the masters of magic, and have even spoken to Him. Do you think that blessing would go to waste?” Celestia shook her head, smiling again.

The two continued to eat, catching in moderate conversations about politics and various...Immature topics at moments. Lovers tend to do these things regardless. When their meal was finished, Books paid, as the conduct always goes.

“So, what troubles you, my dear?” Books asked, clearly knowing what she was hiding.

“What do you mean?”

“Don’t play dumb now dear. I know of the creature.”

“H-How did you?”

Books laughed. “Yes well, He told me. Knowledge of such interest doesn’t fly past Him.”

“I suppose I have no choice. The creature is named, ‘Soul’. To be honest, I have not the slightest what he is, nor his origins. What makes it worse, neither does he. I...sent him to Void for answers. I don’t know why, but I did!” She nearly shouted, confused from her own actions. Books grabbed her hoof, comforting her.

“He talked to him. Mentioned his armour that he wears had enchantments written in Rotmulaagge.” She said, Book’s eyes shrinking to peas.

Books opened his mouth to speak, but something...else forced it shut.

“I’m sending him south to the Dead Lands so he may find my sister. If anything, she might know about his enchantments. After all, she was the first to discover Him. Books, my love, I cannot get this feeling from my system. Something about him, it’s strange, it just isn’t normal. He is leaving tomorrow at dusk, though I wish him not to go alone.”

Books stood up from the table, staring into her eyes.

“This will not do. I suppose it’s time I take a vacation.”

“You’re serious, aren’t you?” Celestia asked, afraid.

“The Dead Lands is not for just any pony. Without somepony with experience he will not last a moment!” He excused himself from the table, helping Celestia from her chair. “Besides! I haven’t visited Him in years! It will be a nice trip.”

She sighed, giving Books a peck on the cheek. “Ponyville. Much to my information, you will be joined by a mare by the name of ‘Travel Far’, and of course, Soul.”

Smiling, Books bid his date farewell, heading towards the door, but was stopped by a familiar mist. Turning back to see the despair and worry planted upon his mate’s face was enough to know what she meant. “Please be careful...And please help that child. I know he is still lost.”

Trotting back over to her, he gave her a quick kiss. Their muzzles joined together, Celestia felt a little better. Saying nothing, he winked before fading into the air. Celestia managed to keep herself together, heading back home to the sleeping city of Canterlot.

”Soul? Somepony is here to see you,” said Lyra. Soul closed the book he was reading, switching his gaze to the pony next to Lyra. Just by the colors, he could tell it was a girl. An earth pony, her colors shining like the sun. A yellow coat with a orange mane. Soul wondered if her name was ‘Vibrant Sun’, or something around those lines. All these ponies seemed to have names relating their colors.

“This is Travel Far,” she said, smiling. “Travel Far, meet Soul Fire.” She nudged her friend who was busy gaping in awe at Soul. Though he felt slightly uncomfortable at her strange gaze, he managed to keep himself together. Lyra nudged her again, a little harder this time.

“Oh! Sorry,” she giggled. “My name is Travel Far...Of course you already know that, so why would I say that? Oh man, I’m so bad at entrances, I hope I didn’t make a bad impressi-” She said, cut off by the raised hand of Soul.

“It’s quite alright. Good to meet you Miss Far. So what brings you to me? Sorry, but I don’t accept autographs...” He laughed, though much to his confusion, she did too.

“No, no, no, I’m not here for that! Twilight sent me a letter saying you were going on an adventure, a quest of some sort, so she asked me to tag along.” She responded, smiling. Soul was dumbstruck.

“You’re the help I’m getting?” He asked, unaware of the insult he just made.

Far frowned, offended by his comment. “Yes, I am? I’ll have you know I’ve been to the deepest reaches of Slavern, the highest peaks of Gryphon, and-” She said, though was cut off by Lyras hoof.

“Soul, she’s an experienced explorer. Not to mention, fighter as well. She will help protect you on your journey.” Soul stayed quiet for a moment, pondering whether or not to trust this mare, but if Lyra said so...

“Sorry, I’m still kind of skeptical about this whole thing.”

“It’s okay, I can’t blame you.” She replied kindly.

Soul was an honest soul at heart, and this whole thing was quite perplexing to him. Regarding his loss of memory, the mere fact that things were moving so fast, and he had not the slightest problem with it, well, surprised him. He always thrusted it aside, knowing he knew nothing about this world. Perhaps his ability to adjust extremely quick to almost every situation was an attribute of his?

“Lyra?” Soul asked.

“Yes, Soul?”

His expression, though hidden, changed from content to worry. “And where will you be? What are you going to do?”

Her smile grew larger. “I’ve decided I’m going to stay and help Twilight research this ‘Father’. There are a lot of places in Equestria, so I’m sure there’s something here that can help us!”

Soul nodded. “That’s good. Keep in touch, okay?”

She nodded as well. “Exactly why we have but one more member of your team arriving soon. He is a unicorn, so you will be able to write back!” She smiled. “His name is Burning Books, a largely accepted, powerful professor at Canterlot University.”

Far’s smile faded as soon as she heard that name, slowly turning her expression into overwhelming shock. “The Professor is coming as well?!”

“Indeed I am, Miss Far. This adventure will directly affect your grade, so I suggest you study hard.” A voice came from behind them. Lyra and Far jumped at the scare, but Soul remained unwavered. Soul switched his gaze to the elderly pony standing at the library door.

Must have let himself in...How appropriate...He thought.

“I did not let myself in lad, the door was wide open.” The professor sharply replied.

Lyra gasped, “So that’s why it was so cold in here...”

Souls eyes widened at the reply of the professor. He had not said anything, yet it was if he had.

You and me have much to discuss, my boy. Follow me up the stairs so that we may talk in peace. The voice intruded his head once again, a sharp pain following. Though he could not understand what was happening, he nodded hastily, slightly intrigued by the power of this unicorn.

“I’m sorry ladies, but if you will excuse me and Soul for a moment. I wish to have a word with him.” He politely excused himself, trotting up the staircase. Soul glanced at Lyra and Far, who gave him mixed glances, clearly unsure. Trusting the unicorn’s wisdom, he followed after him, closing the door in the upper room, leaving the two alone.

“Greetings, lad. My name is Professor Burning Books, good to meet you. But you may refer to me as The Professor, or simply Professor in nicknames.” He smiled. Soul opened his mouth to do the same, but felt it forced shut. “No need for your’s, I know it already. Besides, you don’t know anything about yourself to begin with anyway.”

Soul would have been angry for this unnecessary force, but he felt the need to agree. The professor WAS right.

“So then lad, now that introductions are out of the way, let us get down to business. I can tell just by your biological force, that you are quite young. Being young, I want you to understand these ground rules. Rule number one, I am your guide. What I say, is what is, understand?” Soul nodded, feeling no need to disagree.

“Professor, sir, if I may.” He bowed. “I am but an alien to this world. Your tone seeps wisdom, and I can tell you know much about the land ahead. I do not wish to die, so please, lead on, and I will follow.”

The Professor smiled, though slightly disappointed he didn’t get to finish his rules, he was nonetheless happy to hear those words. “My boy! You and I are going to get along just fine.” He laughed, patting the creature on his waist.

His laugh faded, and his smile disappeared as well. “Though that mare...” Soul eyed his worry, unsure.

“I will keep her under control, Professor. I have my way with mares, as odd as that may sound.” Soul offered, laughing lightly.

The Professor took this news happily. “Well you certainly wooed that Lyra mare into letting you sleep with her!” He shouted a tad bit too loud, much to the discomfort of Soul.

“W-What?! No! I slept at her house, not with her!” Soul replied hastily, shouting just as loud.

The Professor laughed, patting the ancient once more. “I know, lad. I was just pulling your knee. You...Have one of those, right?”

“Yes.”

“Ah, good then. Would have been embarrassing should it not.” The Professor chuckled nervously.

Soul began to like this old coot. Despite his scary power, he had quite the sense of humor. Soul began to sense a small spark of friendship between the two, though a banging on the door wanted to have a turn at speaking. “Just a moment!” Burning shouted, turning back to Soul, his eyes as serious as when he first arrived.

“Lad. One last thing.” He said, his tone serious.

He sighed. “My boy, I bring you grave news, and exciting news. The bad news is that I know of your little deal with Void. I can say that you are an idiot, without a doubt, a bucking moron.” He said harshly, Soul recoiling off the words.

“Though, it was unavoidable. Destiny has a way of doing things. Anyways, the bad news is that Void lied to you.” He said. Soul couldn’t find the words to respond.

“Void knows what you are, and he also knows who you are. Though for reasons unknown, he is unable to tell you. I know you must be wondering how I know all this.”

“My boy, I am the greatest spellcaster in all of Equestria. You are quite lucky to meet me, let alone travel with me. Void has many brothers and sisters, all of which know something to do with you. I’m sure you’ve heard it before. The dragons speak his name, Father.”

Souls eyes widened, remembering that name.

“Father is the dragon god. The original, and the first. He was the father of knowledge. After my recent trip to the Dead Lands, I found many different stone tablets which contained several sentences of text regarding Father. It explains how Father began Nevra, with a single shout containing four phrases. According to the tablets, he was the only one who could use four phrases in a single shout, while the rest are bound to three.

“But most importantly, I also found something increasingly strange. When Father was finished, he created his first children. Void is one of those children. From there he created all the other mortal races. When he saw all was good, he vanished off the face of Nevra. He spread his knowledge between his children, locking some of it away, and allowing the other mortal races he created to obtain it as well.

“My boy, I am telling you this because through the tablets and other...resources, I was able to find what you are. That is the good news.”

Souls heart nearly jumped from hearing the news. “After studying the tablets over and over, I managed to translate them into Equestrian.According to the tablets, it was Father's last words. I found many sentences, but this one in particular caught my attention when I heard about you.”

He took a deep breath. “Four word shout will once again crash mother and father. Knowledge spread, pieces of puzzle, all together yet all lost. Final work, harbinger, I call it, Human.”

“Amongst other tablets I found, they described the creature to be upright, and walk on two legs. It’s other two legs, though keep in mind the word ‘arms’ didn’t exist yet, sprout from its upper body. I think we have come to a conclusion.”

“My boy. You are Human.”

End Of Chapter