A Light in the Grim Darkness

The Next Day:

Much to Ian’s relief, the six mares did not question him about or

bring up Laureus IX; they had heard enough from their perch on

the balcony to put two and two together and just wanted Ian not to

be upset. Ian arose the next day at seven AM and put on a Cadian

dress uniform that he kept with him in his luggage, along with his great

coat and glasses. He left his hat in his room as he figured that the witch

hunter type hat would raise unwanted attention at the press conference.

Once he was done shaving, grooming his hair, and brushing his teeth;

he and Applejack went downstairs to meet the Princess Celestia and the

other element bearers for breakfast. Princess Luna was sleeping as she

was after all the princess of the night and thus slept most of the day due

to her nocturnal duties.

Breakfast was a quiet affair as no one felt like speaking about the previous

night’s events. Once breakfast was over, Ian walked with Princess Celestia

to where the press conference was to be held. On the way to the conference,

Celestia and Ian spoke of what had happened.

“Ian, I apologize for bringing up your past last night. It was wrong of me to

intrude in such a way after you told us all right out not to ask us about it.” said the

sable alicorn apologetically.

“I have already forgiven you princess; just do not bring it up again is all I ask.”

replied Ian.

“I will not do it again. Please just remember though, if you ever wish to talk,

my ears are open to you; and I will not tell anyone else.” said Celestia.

“If and when I decide to do so, I will speak with you. Not one moment before.

Now let us not keep the buzzards waiting.” said Ian with a small smile.

***********************************************************************

Despite Ian’s deep hatred of the press, he knew how to deal with them

quite well: especially when it came to avoiding topics that could cause panic

or revolt amongst the populace. The area in which the conference was to be

held was a courtyard. The press would be on the floor of the courtyard while

Ian and Celestia would be on the balcony overlooking the courtyard. The courtyard

was full of reporters from all over Equis Prime. Ian saw not only ponies, but griffons,

minotaurs, hyppogryphs, and many other creatures that had been thought only to exist

in mythology. Celestia introduced Ian in a quick speech before allowing Ian to take center

stage. As soon as Ian stepped onto the balcony next to Princess Celestia, he was

barraged with questions.

“Please, please. One at a time; raise your hand, claw, or hoof and I will answer

your questions.” said Ian calmly. The first one to raise a hoof was a green pegasus mare

with a midnight blue mane, and Ian called on her.

“Inquisitor Ludones I am Truth Writer, with Equestrian Royal News; We would like to know:

where are you from and what brings you here to Equestria?” she asked.

“I am from a star spanning interplanetary empire that consists of one million worlds

and quadrillions of subjects known as the Imperium of Mankind. I am here on a

diplomatic mission to learn more about Equestria, as it has recently been discovered

that there may be a link between this world and the Imperium that was forged 10,000

years ago by our emperor. In proving this link, I will be able to show my leaders that

this world is not a threat and hope that relations between this world and the Imperium

flourish.” answered Ian.

The next to raise an appendage and be called on by Ian was a griffon with a black

coat and gray feathers.

“Artemis Von Griffonstadt; Griffon Imperial News; The princess called you an inquisitor,

what does your job entail?” he asked.

“Well, I am inquisitive.” said Ian with a smile that drew a few laughs. “In all seriousness

I am a combination of a detective, a diplomat, a soldier, and a scholar. It is an occupation

that requires years upon years of schooling and gives one a great deal of influence and power.”

Ian knew he was grossly understating and even avoiding telling the reporters more about the

duties of his office, but the last thing he wanted was an entire world in fear of the Imperium

when he was trying to gain the cooperation of its inhabitants. Telling the entire world that his

empire’s military could burn a planet to ash would most likely cause a panic of epic

proportions; he remembered all too well how Fluttershy had fainted. The press conference

went on for about an hour. Ian found himself answering questions mostly about the Imperium;

its religion, society, politics and the relations between Equis Prime and the Imperium in the

past. Relatively few questions were asked about the Emperor himself, but Ian figured that the

idea of a divine immortal monarch did not surprise these creatures; seeing as Equestria had

two of them and therefore it must not be a new concept for them. A nudge from Celestia told

him that time was up.

“Well, it has been good speaking with all of you, Emperor bless you and watch over you.” said Ian.

************************************************************************************************

Ian was relieved to be away from the reporters. He let out a sigh as he found a chair to sit in.

“Good job Ian, you really handled that well.” said Celestia.

“Thank you princess.” replied Ian.

“By the way, my nephew, Prince Blueblood will be in the library this afternoon with the

documents you will need at around two pm.” said the princess.

“Ah; well then I shall meet him in the library at two then.” replied Ian.

****************************************************************************************

When Ian got back to his room, he was met by Applejack, who had a rather sour look on

her face.

“Why did ya lie ta them reporters? Why didn’t ya tell ‘em what ya told us

yesterday mornin?” she asked.

“Tell me AJ, do you remember how Fluttershy and Rarity reacted when I told them about

the duties of my office?” he asked very seriously.

“They fainted.” replied Applejack.

“Yes. It was very scary for them, and tell me; what was going through your mind when

you heard that I have the power to order an entire planet burnt to ash?” continued Ian.

“Ah was kinda scared.” replied Applejack.

“Exactly; now, how do you think that an entire planetary population would react to what

I told you? They would be terrified. They may even react with violence. I am not here to

spread violence and fear. I am here to learn and prove to everyone back home that you

are just as much sons and daughters of the Emperor as we humans are.” finished Ian.

“Ah guess ya made yer point. Sorry again.” said Applejack feeling somewhat foolish.

“No AJ, do not be sorry. You are the element of honesty, and lying is a detestable course

of action; it is however necessary at times. To be perfectly honest, I hate liars. I hate lying

even more, but there are times when one must lie to save lives.” said Ian with a sigh.

“Ah understand.” said Applejack.

“So anyhow, will you be at the welcome party next week that the Princesses are

throwing me?” asked Ian.

“Eeyup, Ah’ll be there. Rarity also wants ta see ya, she’s probably gonna make ya a

new suit er somthin’ so be prepared.” warned Applejack.

“Why? Should I be worried?” asked Ian.

“Let’s just say Rarity can get a lil bit melodramatic when she gets in her “zone”.” said

Applejack remembering all too well one time of getting roped into trying on dresses for

Rarity.

“I will keep that in mind. In the mean time however, I need to get to the Library.

The princess told me on the way back that I was going to be meeting her nephew

in the Library and that he was going to get me started on my research with some maps

and old documents.” said Ian

“Wait, her nephew?” she asked with concern.

“Yes, you say that as if it were a bad thing.” said Ian questioningly.

“Sit back and let me tell ya about ol’ Blueblood.” said Applejack.

*************************************************************************************

Prince Blueblood sat anxiously in the library. All of the old charts and maps of

Equestria were laid out before him for the human to look at. To say he was nervous

about meeting the visitor would have been an understatement; he had overheard his

aunt speaking with Twilight about this ‘Inquisitor Ludones’ and had heard them saying

that he had the authority to burn entire planets into a barren rock. The last thing he

wanted to do was to offend someone with that kind of power. A maid approached him

with a huge tray bearing a teapot, some sugar cubes in a fine bowl, and a pair of tea cups.

Blueblood looked at the tray and then cast a critical gaze on the maid.

“I asked for the blue and red tea set not the red and blue one you simpleton!” snapped

the pompous royal. The maid grimaced from the insult.

“I-I’m sorry your grace, I am color blind; I didn’t notice.” replied the mare.

“Then I am sure you will not notice when I have you fired! I shall see to it that you

never find a respectable job again!” ranted the prince.

“P-please your grace! It’s my first week on the job!” she pleaded.

“Well then you will not have grown too comfortable in the servant’s quarters, now

off with you, before you make a mess of something else!” he said cruelly.

The maid, a young mahogany colored earth pony mare turned and walked away

crying silently. Blueblood sat back muttering to himself about the poor mare’s stupidity.

The whole time he had been waiting for the inquisitor though, Ian had been up on the

second story observing the situation with the maid. He was less than impressed.

“Wow, he reminds me of a certain pompous ass I defenestrated.” Ian thought to himself

as he descended the winding staircase. He was wearing his greatcoat over at his fine

uniform he had worn to the press conference, as well as his menacing Witch Hunter hat.

The thump-thumping of Ian’s boots on the stairs caught Blueblood’s attention rather quickly.

The prince stood to welcome his guest as the towering human crossed the floor and stood

before him.

“H-hello, I am Prince Blueblood, it is a p-pleasure to meet you Inquisitor.” said the prince

offering his hoof. The human took his hoof in his hand, stared him dead in the eye, and

squeezed. It was the most painful hoofshake that Blueblood had ever experienced.

*****************************************************************************

Ian was very much enjoying the look of pain that had come over the face of the

pompous unicorn. He could see the pain in Blueblood’s face as he gave the young

prince a handshake from hell; a tactic he used on bullies when he was young and in

school. Ian was strong enough that it took little effort to cause a lot of pain and it was

the least he could do for the way he hadjust treated the poor maid as well as Applejack

and Rarity in the past.

“That is one strong grip you have there! But I have those papers you requested sir! said

Blueblood in a rather high octave.

“Of course your grace, one can tell much about a man from the firmness of his hand or

in your case, hoof shake please lead on.” said Ian while preparing phase two of ruining

the young noble’s day. Ian reached out with his telepathy towards Blueblood’s mind.

******************************************************************************************

“Geeeeeet oooooouuuuuuut!” said a voice in a creeping whisper that made Blueblood’s

blood run cold.

“D-did you hear that!?” asked a now terrified prince.

“I have no idea as to what you are talking about your grace, are you alright? You seem;

jumpy.” replied Ian, masterfully keeping any hint of his part in causing Blueblood’s fear hidden.

“Who me?! Of course not Inquisitor of course not!” he replied all too eagerly.

“I’m going to devour your soul.” came the voice again making Blueblood’s hair stand on end.

“You are sure you do not hear anything inquisitor?” asked Blueblood.

“Aside from the wind outside, no your grace.” replied Ian.

“I can taste your fear…It is delicious!” whispered the voice again. This time, it was just too

much for the pompous unicorn to handle; he screamed, rather lady like, and fainted.

*******************************************************************************************

Ian let out a hearty chuckle when the arrogant young noble fainted. Such tricks were one of

his favorites to use when he broke someone of weak will for information; but for this little

prank, it had worked perfectly. A door opened and the maid walked in, obviously alerted to

something amiss by the rather effeminate scream from the prince, and froze with fear at the

sight before her of the human, standing over and laughing at an unconscious Blueblood.

“Fear not, the prince has scared himself silly and fainted. He claimed he was hearing things,

screamed, and fainted. Tell me madam, is he always so paranoid?” said Ian chuckling.

“N-no sir. He is normally very-” Began the maid nervously.

“Cruel, uncaring and selfish. I saw how he treated you miss?”

“T-Tealeaf milord, my name is Tealeaf.” she said nervously.

Ian brought himself down to eye level with the young mare and adjusted his glasses.

“You needn’t call me milord or your grace; you may call me Ian. It is very nice to meet

you Tealeaf.” said Ian offering a hand. Tealeaf shook laid her hoof in his hand and

he gave her a gentle, yet firm hoofshake.

“It is a pleasure to meet you Ian.” she said with more confidence.

“There you go, now, if you would kindly fetch a few guards to take sleeping sleaze

ball here to his room before he begins to stink up the place?  I would be much obliged;

oh, and if he pushes having you fired, let me know and I will stand up for you.” said Ian.

“Thank you Ian!” she giggled before trotting off to get some guards. Ian just chuckled to

himself, sat at the table, and began to read the documents before him and take notes on

a data slate he had brought with him. Thus began the arduous task of researching the history

of Equestria and the search for its links to the Imperium.

************************************************************************************************************

The next day, Ian arose at eight in the morning: for Ian, this was sleeping in, and after the

long night of research, he did not mind sleeping in at all. The first thing Ian decided to do

was check up on his roommate. He grabbed his crutch and proceeded to the living room.

Upon entering the living room he was greeted by the sight of Rarity and Applejack sitting

on the sofa chatting. The soft thumping of Ian’s crutch on the floor as he walked caught

their attention.

“Hi Ian!” said Applejack in her friendly manner quite used to the sight of Ian using his

crutch and without his prosthetic limb. Rarity on the other hand was staring agape.

“Miss Rarity, are you attempting to catch insects?” asked Ian mischievously.

“I’m sorry darling, it is impolite to stare I know, but what happened to your leg!?”

she asked with concern.

“I lost it a long time ago to save the life of a friend; so it was well worth it in the end

and I would gladly give any limb or even my life to protect one of my friends.” replied Ian

matter of factly.

“How can ya be so fearless? Ah mean hay, even Ah would be terrified facin’ off against

some of the stuff you do, and Ah don’t scare easy; you can ask any of mah friends.”

admitted Applejack.

“I would give my life willingly because I know that when I die, I will see my family again;

and we will all be by the Emperor’s side in the final battle against the dark powers.”

said Ian nostalgically.

“That is just; beautiful. Sad, but beautiful Ian.” said Rarity.

“Ah agree, but don’t get yerself killed Ian. None of us wanna see ya dead.” stated

Applejack with some worry.

“Worry not; I do not plan on dying anytime soon. Besides; the Emperor has a time

and place planned for my death and thus I do not concern myself with it. I leave it

up to him.” replied Ian with a smile whilst thinking to himself 'If you really want to make

the Emperor laugh, tell him what you're plans are'.

“Off such a depressing topic as death, are you going to meet me for measurements

today Ian? I would like to make you a nice new uniform for the ball next week.” asked

Rarity with a smile.

“Yes of course. Just allow me to get my leg on and get dressed and ready for the day

and I will meet up with you at breakfast. By the way do you take gold bars for payment?”

asked Ian.

“Please darling; do not worry about payment. Consider this a welcome gift from me.”

she said smiling sweetly.

“Ah, well um, thank you very much Miss Rarity.” replied Ian a bit stunned.

“Please darling, just Rarity will do. All of my friends call me Rarity, and you can consider

me a friend if you want to.” she said kindly.

“Thank you then Rarity. I will go and get cleaned up and assembled; then I shall meet you

two at the breakfast table.” said Ian.

“Sure thing Ian, see ya there!” said Applejack.

Ian moved back towards his room while Applejack and Rarity left to go to the dining hall. It

was a long walk and the two mares decided to chat a bit on the way.

“So Applejack, what do you think of Ian?” asked Rarity.

“He’s really nice. Ah feel really bad fer him and all; no one deserves to go through

what he’s been through.” said Applejack.

“Oh no dear; I mean do you find him handsome?”

“Rarity! What the hey kinda question is that!  Ah’m already seein’ some pony, plus

he’s only been here a few days! And on top of that ponies and humans don’t go together!”

replied Applejack.

“Applejack dear, you are blushing!” said Rarity with a ladylike laugh.  Rarity was right.

Applejack’s cheeks were red as a ripe apple.

“Oh crabapples! Cant ya just leave me alone about it!?” snapped Applejack.

“I’m sorry darling I was just curious.” replied Rarity with a snicker.

**************************************************************************************

When Ian finally got to the dining hall, he found the element bearers and Princess Luna

waiting for him at the table. Celestia was not present as she was at court. The princess

of the night smiled at the inquisitor’s arrival. He was dressed in another Cadian style uniform,

complete with a peaked cap, jodhpurs, riding boots and a glimmering gorget. The Imperial

Aquilas had all been replaced with stylized inquisitorial letter “I’s”.

“Good morning Ian, I take it your study session went well with our obnoxious and disliked

nephew?” asked Luna with a smile.

“Oh it went well even without him. You see he began acting rather strangely and then he

just shrieked and fainted. It was really the strangest yet most hilarious sight I have seen

in years.” said Ian with a mischievous chuckle.

“Wait, what happened?” asked Twilight.

“Last night I came upon Prince Blueblood mistreating one of the maids. He even made

her cry. After what AJ had told me about him and how he managed to offend her and

Rarity, it was time for him to pay the piper.” said Ian.

“But Princess Luna, didn’t you say he was claiming to hear voices in his head or something?”

asked Pinkie Pie.

“Amazing what one can do with telepathy and years of physical training.” Ian

answered for her, still grinning.

“Yes, he did say you had quite the grip.” chuckled Luna.

“So you have magic where you are from?” asked Twilight.

“To those who do not understand the mysteries of psychic power, I suppose it would

be magic. And yes, I am a psyker. My abilities are telepathy, and the ability to look into

the mind and soul of an individual. This makes it very easy to tell if someone is lying or

what they are thinking.” replied Ian sipping at his coffee.

“Oooh! Oooh! What am I thinking about! said Pinkie Pie appearing suddenly in front of

Ian on the table making him nearly spit his coffee in surprise. Ian focused and narrowed

his eyes at her.

“Chocolate Chip Pancakes.” replied Ian.

“Oooh! He’s good!” said Pinkie clapping her hooves together excitedly.

“So what exactly happened with our royal pain in the flank nephew?” asked Luna with a

wide grin.

Ian proceeded to tell the whole story from when Applejack had told him about how Blueblood

had treated Rarity and her to the part where Ian had scared him witless. It drew a lot of laughs,

especially from Luna and Rarity. After breakfast, Ian went with Rarity to get his measurements

taken before he continued on with his research. Rarity was very good at her work, and had Ian

measured perfectly in under an hour. After the quick measurement session, Ian went to the

library where he found Twilight waiting for him with the materials he had been studying the

previous day.

“Good morning again princess.” said Ian with a curt bow.

“Oh, Hi Ian. I got this stuff ready for you to continue researching; do you think I could join in?

It would be nice to have a study buddy.” said Twilight.

“It shouldn’t be a problem; I am already a good way through the texts that Princess Celestia

gave me access to. She was not joking when she said not much survived.” said Ian

motioning to the ten leather-bound books in front of them. They were not very large books

either, and Ian had read through the first five rather quickly and easily.

“I must ask, what happened with the fire about six years ago. Celestia seemed very distraught

when she mentioned it?” asked Ian.

“It was awful. Several ponies died before she could save them, and she felt she could have

done more. The fire itself was an accident; some pony accidentally dropped a lantern one

night before closing hours and the fire went almost out of control.” said Twilight sadly.

“That is a great tragedy in deed. A crown can be such a heavy weight to bear.” replied Ian

sadly making a note on his data slate.

“Yeah, tell me about it.” sighed the lavender alicorn.  Ian and Twilight studied at the table until

sundown, when dinner was served.

****************************************************************************************************

When Ian and Twilight arrived at the dinner table they were greeted by the

sight of the element bearers, Princess Cadence, Shining Armor, and Princess

Celestia; with Luna running her night court, she was not present.

“Welcome Ian, it is good to see you well. I owe you a debt of thanks for putting my nephew

in his place. Poor Tealeaf has enough trouble without him tormenting the poor dear.” said

Celestia, clearly disappointed in her nephew.

“It was really nothing. I hate bullies.” said Ian seriously.

The conversation at dinner was nice and lighthearted. Rarity told Ian she would have his

uniform complete in the next few days, while Rainbow Dash asked him some questions about

the Astartes that she had been unable to figure out in her readings in the book that Ian had

loaned her. In all it was a very nice and peaceful little dinner. Cadence and Shining were also

trying to figure out names for their foal that was due in a few months.

“Ian, Cadence and I are trying to decide upon names for our little one when he or she is born,

any suggestions?” asked Shining. Ian thought for a minute before voicing his thoughts.

“For a girl, or filly, Celestine, and for a boy, or colt, Dante; those are the two names that come

instantly to mind.” replied Ian.

“Very interesting, are they popular names in the Imperium?” asked Cadence.

“They are the names of two of mankind’s greatest heroes. I can tell you their stories if you

wish, and with her majesty’s permission.” said Ian. Celestia gave him a nod that signaled

to go ahead, as did Cadence and shining. Twilight pulled out a pen and quill as Ian told

the story of Lord Dante of the Blood Angels, and then the story of Saint Celestine of the

Sisters of the Order of Our Martyred Lady. At the ending of the story of Saint Celestine,

several ponies had tears in their eyes.

“So… she just died? Just like that?” asked Rainbow Dash trying not to cry.

“No one knows Miss Dash. They never found her body.” replied Ian.

“So she may still be alive?” asked Rarity.

“It is a possibility; I for one certainly hope she is. She was truly touched by the Emperor.”

said Ian with a hint of awe in his voice.

“I would certainly like to meet this Lord Dante someday.” said Shining Armor.

“Who knows, maybe someday you will.” said Ian with a smile.

“So you said that Lord Dante is head of the Blood Angels? Isn’t your brother a Blood

Angel too?” asked Rainbow Dash excitedly.

“That he is, and actually Malachi is my half brother. Father was an Inquisitorial representative

to the Blood Angel’s home world of Baal as he had been a native of the planet just as my

entire family line. In his younger days, dad was quite cavalier…” said Ian with a chuckle.

“Uhm, what does cavalier mean?” asked Fluttershy innocently.

“It means he was quite popular with the mares.” said Rarity with a ladylike

chuckle that made Fluttershy blush beat red, making everyone laugh.

“That was until he met my mother later on. She was a commissar in the Imperial Guard. The

Guard is the Imperium’s main military force; and she was attached to the 117th Death Korps

of Krieg regiment to be precise. They met when my father requisitioned her regiment to bring

down a Chaos cult. Dad said it was love at first sight. They got married about a year after they

had finished the mission and nine months later I was born on Laureus IX, where dad taught at

the Schola Progenium, the school that trains future inquisitors, commissars, and other agents

of the emperor; and mom ran the family farm. She had been discharged after dad had recruited

her for his retinue.” said Ian with a smile.

“So, did you take after your father and chase the ladies around?” asked Rarity with a grin.

“No, I was always the more bookish type, but back to my brother. I did not know I even

had a brother until about 7 years ago when I was lying on a battlefield dying of exsanguination,

or blood loss; it was right after I had lost my leg. I had fainted and woke up aboard an Astartes

vessel and came eye to eye with a young battle brother. Little did I know he was also my

brother. He and I talked for a long while; when we happened to land for refueling on Laureus

IX, dad cameand introduced us. You see he had kept in touch with Malachi’s mom after he

found out they’d had a son, and she let him know that Malachi had been recruited by the

Blood Angels.” said Ian.

“That’s so awesome!” said the cyan pegasus.

“It makes my heart swell with pride; the Astartes are the finest warriors we have.” replied Ian.

This was the first time he had told anyone this much about his past, but these were good

memories: memories worth remembering.

*******************************************************************************************************

A few nights later.

The massive ballroom was packed with the upper crust of the Canterlot elite, as well as

foreign dignitaries from the Holy Griffon Empire, The Diamond Dog Kingdom, Saddle

Arabia, and other realms around Equestria. Ian stood between Celestia and Luna in

the new suit that Rarity had made him. It was more of a uniform than a suit, with a white

tunic and gloves, and black slacks. The buttons, cufflinks, and gorget that Rarity had built

to go with it were made of gold, and set with green gems that matched Ian’s eyes. The boots

had been tricky for Rarity but she had been able to find some faux leather and made a fine

pair of dress boots that went perfectly with the suit. On his belt hung Ian’s ever present

Inquisitorial rosette, and on his chest was an inquisitorial pin made of adamantium as well as

several medals that he had been awarded by various imperial guard regiments out of respect

for his bravery. The ponies and dignitaries were all formally dressed; even the princesses

were dressed up for the occasion. Celestia wore a fine white dress, while Luna wore a dark

blue dress uniform that displayed her position as commander of the Equestrian military.

Ian had finished a great deal of his research on Equestrian history and had indeed found that

the Emperor had been responsible for the creation of the Alicorns; he was ready to begin

phase two of his research; the study of Equestrian culture, philosophy and religion. Tonight

however was a night to meet the other races that had inhabited the world of Equis Prime. As

Celestia and Luna greeted the various guests, they introduced Ian to them. Many of the

attendees were stuffy Canterlot nobles and upper crust merchants that made Ian want to

gag in disgust at the sheer aura of superiority they believed they possessed.

“So Ian what do you think of the ball Pinkie Pie organized for you?” asked Luna.

“She went to a lot of trouble to do this didn’t she?” asked Ian.

“It was difficult for her as she normally organizes informal events such as surprise parties,

but she did it. She also has an after part planned as well that is much less formal.” replied Luna.

“That I look forward too. While I can respect pomp and pageantry, I do not like it much.” said Ian.

Ian was soon introduced to another visitor; the ambassador of the Holy Griffon Empire,

and his daughter.

“Ah, Ian; this is Ambassador Honoris of the Holy Griffon Empire, and his daughter Gilda.”

said Celestia introducing the two griffons. The Ambassador was a large griffon, just a

bit smaller than Princess Celestia; he had dark brown feathers and a white feathered head.

He wore a dark blue uniform with shining polished gold buttons and hung with various medals.

On his head polished silver spike helmet that reminded Ian of the ones worn by the Prussian

Cuirassiers of ancient Terra. His daughter was wearing a dark blue ballroom dress.

“It is an honor inquisitor, our news griffons covered the conference well.” replied Honoris.

“I am glad to hear it; it is an honor to meet you as well ambassador.” replied Ian as the two

shook hand and claw. After a bit of chatting, the ambassador took his leave to hit speak with

the other dignitaries.

Ian and the princesses were joined a bit later by the element bearers; all of whom were

wearing high quality dresses. There was also another pony with them; standing next to

Rainbow Dash was a stallion with a light blue coat and dark blue mane.

“Well howdy Ian, yer lookin’ mighty spiffy! said Applejack looking at Rarity’s work.

“Why thank you AJ, Miss Rarity does an excellent job.”

“Absolutely, she designed all of our dresses, no one beats Rarity when it comes to fashion.”

said Twilight.

“Oh Twilight, you’re too kind.” said Rarity.

“I don’t know, I do not see any dresses as nice as the ones you are all wearing.” offered Ian.

“Hey Ian, I wanted you to meet my coltfriend.” said Dash introducing the stallion standing

beside her.

“Ah, it is good to meet you. I am Inquisitor Ian Ludones, but you may call me Ian.”

“It’s good to meet you Ian. I’m Soarin of her majesty’s Wonderbolts Aerial team.” replied the

stallion.

After a bit of talking Ian sat down with the element bearers at a table and watched other

ponies dance. No one but Ian had noticed the nobles at the table behind them giving

them disapproving looks… and being none too subtle in conversation. It did not take

long for the conversation to be heard by the rest of Ian's table.

“My my, why does Miss Rarity, Princess Twilight and the Inquisitor sit with those ruffians?”

asked a unicorn in an arrogant accent.

“I know! That pink one is a complete fool and that rainbow maned one is nothing short of a

barbarian!” said a well dressed earth pony.

“Ugh, and that one that runs the farm! Farm work is soooo dirty and farmers are the most

uneducated and stupid lot around!”  said a third noble. Ian by this point had heard enough,

and he could sense the aggravation and embarrassment from his friends.

“We sit with them because they are good honest folk; unlike the pit of vipers I see before

me. Do you think I was always an Inquisitor? I was born and raised on a farm you

pompous windbag.” he said standing and rounding on the now terrified nobles. "What?

did you think I couldn’t hear you? I may be near sighted but I am by no means deaf.”

said Ian adjusting his glasses.

“B-b-b-b-” began one of the nobles.

“No, you will listen. The ‘pink fool’ as you have called her, went to a great deal of trouble to

prepare this ball, and miss Rainbow Dash may be a barbarian in your eyes, but her

bravery and loyalty to her friends would impress many of my colleagues back home.

You, however, are naught but spoiled children who get everything handed to you!”

said Ian with some well controlled anger.

“You cannot talk to me like that! I am a noble!” said a red unicorn with a purple mane.

Ian stooped to eye level with the stallion and fixed him with a very serious gaze.

“Let me tell you something about nobility; I have executed more arrogant nobles who got in my

way than I can even remember: the last one to cross me was the governor of an entire planet.

He learned how to fly without wings and it was the last lesson he learned. What makes you

think I give a damn and a half about your titles and ranks?” spat Ian. The nobles sat in

horrified awe as the inquisitor’s unflinching gaze swept over them, his green pupils burning

with anger. No one happened to notice Princess Celestia approaching the situation.

“What is going on here?” she asked raising an eyebrow.

“Why don’t you ask them your majesty? I need some fresh air; there is a foul stench emanating

from their table.” replied Ian turning back to the element bearers and fiddling with his

spectacles. “Anyone care to join me?”

While Celestia scolded the rude nobles, the small party moved out to the gardens where the

after party was to begin.

“Wow Ian, you really don’t take guff from anyone!” said Rainbow Dash hovering next to him

with Soarin next to her.

“When someone insults my friends or the company I keep, they insult me as well.”

replied Ian.

“You really consider us friends? Even though you have only been here about a week?”

asked Twilight.

“Well, yes. You six, the princesses, Shining and Cadence have shown me great kindness

where I am normally met terrified awe, complete incompetence, or a hail of gunfire: so yes

I would consider you lot friends.” replied Ian. The six friends felt their hearts swell with joy

at Ian’s admission.

“So, I heard something about an informal after party?” asked Ian.

“Yeah! We can start right away if ya want Ian! replied an excited Pinkie Pie.

“That would be best I think; if I go back in there I may not be able to take responsibility

for my actions.” said Ian with a smile.

“Wow, ya really don’t like nobles do ya?” asked Applejack.

“It’s not that at all AJ, I just dislike rude, pompous fools who believe themselves better

than everyone else because of their position in society. Back in the Imperium I have a

quite a few friends in the nobility. Replied Ian

“Hey, uh, guys?” came a voice from behind them. Ian recognized it was the voice of the

daughter of the Griffon ambassador. The element bearers gave her a rather disapproving look.

“What do you want Gilda? To be a jerk to me and my friends again?” asked Rainbow Dash

flying up and getting in the Griffon’s face.

“No; I wanted to say I’m sorry for how I acted back then. I was going through a really hard

time; and I just… I just became a total jerk. How I treated you guys is inexcusable. If you

don’t forgive me, I’ll understand.” said Gilda closing her eyes and preparing to be turned

away. What she got was a hug from her old friend.

“Gilda; I forgave you a long time ago; heck I’m pretty sure everypony has.” said Rainbow Dash.

“It’s like water under the bridge!” added Pinkie Pie.

“Really Gilda, we forgive you.” said Fluttershy in an unusually outgoing manner.

“See? Now come on, we’re gonna have a kick flank after party away from those stuffy nobles

before Ian launches one through a window!” said Dash.

“A sight I would not mind seeing myself.” said the motherly tone of Princess Celestia whose

arrival no one had noticed. Beside her stood Princess Luna, Cadence, and Shining Armor.

“Your majesty-” began Ian, but stopped when the sable Alicorn held up a hoof.

“No need to explain yourself Ian. What those nobles did was wrong, and I am

glad that you put them in their place and they have been sent home for their bad behavior.

Now, how about we get this party started.” she said happily.

The rest of the night was just as fun and informal as Ian could have asked for. The music was

good, the food was great, and on top of it all, it was a great relief for Ian from the constant

researching the history of Equestria. Unfortunately for Ian, sleep that night would be a torment

far worse than anything employed by the Ordo Malleus.

****************************************************************************************************************

Later that night.

The halls of the Palace were silent. The party had ended at one in the morning and everyone

in the palace save the night shift of the royal guard and Princess Luna with her nocturnal court

were asleep. In the shared suite, Applejack awoke to loud noises coming from Ian’s room. She

got out of bed and went to investigate. When she reached the door, she knocked.

“Ian? You alright in there?” she asked.

*****************************************************************************************************************

Ian looked around at the destruction before him. He stood at the center of a city that looked

as if it had been smashed asunder by the fist of the God-Emperor himself; all around the city

was a barren, ashen, wasteland. As he looked however, shapes stirred from within the

buildings; shapes he recognized: humans, but made from ash. He saw PDF troopers, members

of the enforcers, farmers, doctors, and citizens from all walks of life. They were surrounding

him and pointing accusingly at him; but that was not the worst part of it. Front and center were

his mother, father, and sister; all of them leveling their fingers at him.

“THIS IS YOUR FAULT! DAMN YOU! CURSE YOU! YOU KILLED US! screamed a chorus of

thirteen billion souls. Ian felt the tears fall involuntarily from his eyes.

“I’m sorry… I am so sorry.” was all Ian could say.

The shapes of the dead disappeared before him, and the city turned to ash blowing in the wind:

the bits of ash became a whirlwind that made the unmistakable form of a space marine. This

however, was no loyal space marine: his armor was a deep red with worn silver trim, and

spikes and horns had formed on its surface. The cloak that the traitor marine wore was made

from human leather, and in his hand he carried a great mace. The helm he wore had two sets

of horns, and his left pauldron bore a silver eight pointed star, while the right bore the ensign

of a screaming daemonic skull wreathed in flame: the Latros Sacrum; insignia of the twisted

Word Bearers Legion.

“Apologize to them all you wish. You will never have closure. You failed to protect them,

just as you will fail to kill me; and you shall live in the knowledge of your failure, and I

shall continue to bask in the glory of my masters.” said the cruel voice of the dark apostle.

“YOU ARE A DAMNED COWARD KOL AGILOR! You fled like a coward when I

challenged you! You fled like a coward when the God-Emperor’s fleet arrived! I

swear to the God-Emperor, I will kill you one day you bastard!” Ian yelled angrily

at the dream apparition before him.

“Swear to your false emperor all you wish, it will do you no good. I am done speaking to you,

have a free trip back down memory lane on me.” said the twisted apostle before he turned

once again to ash on the wind.

“I WILL KILL YOU!” roared Ian.

“We shall see little man. We shall see.” were the last words uttered by the chaos lord as

he faded to dust.

************************************************************************************************************************

Normally Applejack did not break her own rules, but upon hearing Ian’s yelling, she opened

the door to find the inquisitor tossing and turning, and yelling in his sleep. Applejack trotted

over and began shaking the human in an attempt to wake him from his nightmare.

“Ian, Ian wake up!” she said shaking him. After about a minute of shaking him,

Ian sat bolt upright and wide eyed in the bed. He was dripping with perspiration and

tears ran down the sides of his face and gasping for breath. The orange farm pony

put her hooves around the distressed man and gave him a hug.

“It’s alright Ian. It was only a nightmare. Yer okay.” she said softly. Ian returned the

hug still breathing in short gasps.

“Thank you AJ. Thank you.” replied Ian.