Guardians

I met Shield at the castle entrance, he was wearing his captain’s armor. We started walking, heading for the edge of town.

“Princess Cadence will meet us at the train station. I don’t know why she wants to go to Ponyville.”Shield said.

“She probably has a good reason. I would like to know a little more about her though.” I said.

“Well, she’s Celestia’s niece, she married Twilight’s brother, she’s still good friends with Twi, and is an alicorn. She and Shining defeated the changelings the first time they showed up.” He said.

“What does she influence?” I asked. “Every alicorn influences something.”

“She can influence love.” He said.

“Then why does she want to go to Ponyville? The changelings are probably going to go after her.” I theorized.

“Like I said, I don’t know.” He said.

We were approaching the train station; it was about a quarter after nine. I saw a pinkish-white alicorn waiting by the loading platform.

“Sorry we’re late princess.” Shield said.

She turned and spoke to us. “It’s alright Shield, the train hasn’t arrived yet.” She said, before noticing me. “This must be Blade; it’s nice to finally meet you.”

“Likewise princess, would you mind telling us why we’re heading to Ponyville.” I said politely.

“Not at all, I’m going to see my sister-in-law Twilight. I heard about what happened at the gala, her friends all say she barely speaks to anypony other than Blue Arrow. I’m on my way to cheer her up.” She explained.

“You too?” I asked.

“Yes. You’re going to see Twilight?” She asked.

“Yes, I’m the reason she’s so upset. I want everything to be alright.” I said, guilty.

“Oh… well, it is very kind of you to be so caring about somepony. I see why my aunt is so interested in you.” She said.

The train finally arrived and the three of us hopped on.

“Lunar said Twi doesn’t leave her house much.” Shield stated.

“I won’t blame her; he was the one who comforted her.” I said. “So princess, how did you hear about the gala?”

“I read about it, and you, in The Equestria Daily, but I got the details from my aunts.” She said.

“I guessed it would appear in the paper, there was an assassination attempt, a changeling invasion, and a new alicorn appeared. I’m surprised they’re still covering the gala.” Shield said.

“So Blade, tell me about you.” Cadence said.

“What has Celestia told you so far?” I asked.

“She has told me about your powers, and little about your personality.” She answered.

“To start with, I am one who only wants the best for others. I love all sorts of creatures. Although I’m not too fond of the changelings.” I said.

“Agreed.” She said chuckling.

We talked the entire ride to Ponyville, only stopping once I told her most, not all, about me. I appreciated that Shield hadn’t told anypony about Earth, princess Cadence especially.

“You seem to be a very respectable pony. I see why Twilight likes you. I understand why and how you hurt her, but don’t blame yourself, you didn’t know.” She said, exiting the train.

“That’s something I’m terrible at, noticing others emotions, if they’re really slightly obvious.” I said, following her.

“Maybe if you learned, it could help in the future.” She agreed.

“What’s left of it anyway.” I thought to myself.

“So, why is it that you don’t love her?” Cadence asked as we started walking.

“I never said that I didn’t. All I said was I didn’t love her the same way.” I responded.

“So you do love her?” she asked.

“As a friend, or a sister.” I stated.

“Ah, you love her as well as her brother did.” She started tearing up.

“Are you alright?” I asked.

“I’m fine; it’s just that I’m Twilight’s sister-in-law, I married her brother.” She said.

“I see, we don’t have to talk about it anymore, if you don’t want to.” I said.

“Thank you.” She said, pulling herself together.

We continued walking to the library that was Twi’s home, which wasn’t that far away, and stopped outside.

“You sure you’re ready to do this?” Shield asked.

“I’m sure, if I don’t make things right with Twi, I’ll never forgive myself.” I stated.

“That’s so sweet.” Cadence said. She knocked.

“Who’s there?” a Scottish accented voice said.

“Blue Arrow, its Cadence. May I see Twilight?” She called.

“Hold on, I’ll let ya in.” he responded.

He came to the door, looking as gruff as ever. “Hello.” I said softly.

“Hello princess Cadence, Shield, Blade. Good fer ya to stop bye.” He said.

“Where’s Twi?” Shield asked.

“Hold on fer a second, and I’ll go get her.” He said before going to get the unicorn mare. He came back after a couple of minutes, Twilight following behind him.

“Hey Caden…” she stopped when she saw me. “What’s he doing here?” she asked, about to break down.

“I came to apologize.” I said.

“Well, I don’t know what to say.” She said. I could tell she was about to cry.

“Don’t say anything Twilight; allow us to make you feel better.” Cadence said.

“But…” she ran to Cadence, crying. “Why did you come here, if you don’t love me?” she wept, her question directed towards me.

“Twi…, I never said I didn’t love you. It’s just; I love you as if you were my sister. You’re a pony I can turn to and always count on.” I said, sincerely.

“And why would that change the fact that you could love me more than that?” She asked, she was still crying, but she sounded angry.

“Because you remind me of my friend Tech.” I said, staring her in the eye.

“Who’s Tech?” She asked still angry.

“One of my oldest friends, he’s smart, kind and trustworthy. My best friend.” I said.

“So why can’t we be together, just because I remind you of a good friend?” She said.

“I was hurt by my best friend, I didn’t want to revisit those memories. And I also know what it’s like to love a friend, and not be loved back.” I said, my eyes starting to tear up.

“You do?” she asked.

“Yes. I loved friends before, just like you love me.” I said.

“Even though it happened a month ago, I just can’t let go.” She said, still crying.

“You think this is easy for me? It’s not.” I said, fighting back the tears.

“It’s neither of your faults. Twilight, you were upset, and Blade, you didn’t know. Dealing with broken hearts is more difficult than spreading love, but I’m trying to help.” Cadence said.

“Maybe they need time alone to talk.” Shield said.

“You may be right. Let’s go.” Cadence agreed.

“We’ll give ya a few minutes.” Blue Arrow said before the three of them left.

“Now that they’re out of the way, I can explain this whole thing.” I said, but she just backed away.

“I don’t want to hear it.” She said angrily.

"I didn’t expect you to, but I will explain. When I came to Equestria…” I started.

“Yeah, you told me your friends left you, and that your crush left too. I heard it before.” She said.

“Yes, she did, but what I didn’t tell you, was that she was one of my closest friends.” I said.

“I’ve heard that too.” She stated.

“I’ve been hurt too many times, I don’t want it to happen again.” I explained.

“That’s why you don’t want to be with me? Fear?” she said puzzled.

“No, it’s not that I don’t want to, it’s because I can’t.” I said.

“Why can’t you?” she asked.

“Because…, I’m trying to save you. I’m scared I’ll lose everything if I fail. The fate of two worlds are in my hooves, and if I add a relationship to all the pressure I face, I could collapse.” I explained.

“That is a possibility.” She said, thinking.

“Also, my feelings for Celestia are stronger than any I’ve felt before, but I won’t let it distract me from what I need to do.” I said. The little time we had was almost up.

“I’m sorry, but I need some time to think.” She said going to the other room.

Before she could leave I stated “I finally got a chance to make up with my friends from back home. I felt exactly how I think you feel now, and I forgave them. I’m not expecting you to do the same though.”

“Just go.” She whispered before continuing to the next room.

“Ok Twi. I’ll leave you alone, but you won’t feel better if you don’t forgive those who hurt you. I learned that the hard way. Find somepony else.” I said before leaving.

“How did things go in there?” Shield asked, once I was outside.

“Good. I think she’ll be fine.” I said.

“I’ll stay here for the day; it’s been ages since I’ve talked to Twilight.” Cadence said, heading inside with Blue Arrow.

“I’ll stay here to protect Cadence, how about you go check on the others.” Shield said, heading inside as well.

“Will do.” I responded.

I walked to Applejack’s farm, which looked like it was finally fully repaired from the fire. I saw plenty of new, young apple trees in the orchard, while I headed for the barn.

“Hey Applejack!” I called.

“Well howdy Blade. It’s been a while, since ah saw ya last. How’s that wing?” she greeted.

“My wing is healed; it hurts one hundred percent less now than it did. And it has been a while, one month in fact. I see you got your orchard replanted.” I said, trying to start a conversation.

“It was a lotta hard work, but I reckon we’ll be able to sell apples again soon.” She said, “Ah have mah relatives in Apploosa ta thank fer those beauties.” She said.

“About Appleoosa…” I started.

“It was attacked by the changelings, ah know.” she said, sadness in her voice.

“Oh… I didn’t realize you  knew.” I said.

“Papyrus got the details this morning.” She stated.

“Right, I forgot he was a Red Hoof.” I said.

“I don’t blame ya. It was the changelings fault, and ya didn’t know I knew.” She said.

“That makes me feel better; I wish Twilight would understand like that.” I said.

“She was mighty upset after the gala. Only Blue Arrow has been able to see her. Spike’s been havin to stay here, as of late.” She said.

“I actually came to town to speak with her. Princess Cadence and Shield are there now.” I said.

“Why aren’t ya there talkin to her?” Applejack asked.

“I already did, now I’m giving her some space.” I explained.

“That’s good. Ah gotta get back to work, I’ll speak with ya later.” She said.

I left the farm, heading for the Everfree forest. I was going to see Fluttershy, at her forest cottage. I had to walk a good distance, before reaching the shy pegasus’ house.

“Hello? Fluttershy?” I said, knocking on the door. A somewhat annoyed looking rabbit answered the door.

“Hey, is Fluttershy here?” I asked. It shook its head no. “Is she going to be back soon?” It shook its head no again.

“Oh Blade!” I heard somepony call. I turned around to see Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy walking my way.

I shot a look at the rabbit and mouthed “Why you lying little...”

I turned back around to the approaching mares. “Hello.”

“What are you doing here?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I came to chat. It’s been a while since we last talked. Though I do need a little advice.” I answered.

“I’ll make some tea.” Fluttershy offered.

“That would be nice. Thank you.” I said. She left to go make the tea, leaving only Rainbow Dash and me.

“So, how have things been going?” she asked.

“Well, I’m alright. My wing is healed, it took longer than anypony expected, but that’s not too bad. I haven’t flown at all since before the gala.” I said.

“I know how you feel. Flying is a sensation like no other. Any time I’m not flying, or doing anything for that matter, I just want to get back in the sky.” She said. “Have you had anything going on lately?” She asked.

“Nothing other than my job, I’ve been busy with all that’s happening, the changelings, broken wing, Twilight.” I explained.

“Yeah, the changelings, they attack Appleoosa last night.” She said. She looked sad, I could only guess she was worried about Ace or [Dan].

Fluttershy walked in, carrying a small tray. “I miss anything?” she asked.

“Not at all.” I said. She sat down next to Dash.

“Fluttershy, how have you been?” I asked.

“Umm… I’ve been good. Been quite busy taking care of all my little animal friends.” She said.

“That’s good.” I said. I looked at them, noticing how much they were like my friends on Earth. Dash was like Hunter, she seemed tough but had a soft side, while Fluttershy was like Eli, so fragile and kind, though I knew they both had a strong heart and determination. We talked and drank the tea Fluttershy made. It was incredibly sweet; I could taste a slight hint of honey.

After about ten or fifteen or twenty minutes Fluttershy asked, “So, umm… what are you doing in town?”

“I came to talk to Twi. She was still upset about the gala.” I explained.

“Makes sense.” Dash said.

“Have you already talked to her?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes. She said she needed time to think about it, so I decided to check up on all my friends.” I said.

“Well, it’s nice for you to visit, anything you wanted to talk about?” she asked.

“Yeah, I wanted to ask you how you are so kind and gentle with others emotions and wellbeing.” I said.

“Oh, uh…  let’s see, I guess it’s because I always pay attention and I know how to read body language, like when Angel, my bunny, taps his foot every time he’s hungry.” She said in her usual quiet tone.

“I see, I don’t know how to do that. I pay attention to my surroundings while always watching my friends backs, I don’t usually notice any sort of body language.” I said.

“Well, maybe if you tried to notice others better, you’ll learn how to.” She exclaimed.

“She’s right, I did the same thing and it helped.” Dash said.

“That’s not a bad idea. Thanks.” I said. It was close to three in the afternoon, I thanked Fluttershy for the tea and said goodbye, leaving to see the rest of my friends.

I stopped by Sugar Cube Corner to get some lunch, I hadn’t had anything but tea. I ran into Pinkie Pie, who was helping with the baking. After lunch I went by Vinyl’s club, closed of course, and spoke with Octavia, about music we both liked, Vinyl was asleep. After that I stopped by Rarity’s, but she was out unfortunately, so I headed to go see my two alicorn friends.

On the way to Rainbow Dash’s cloud, I bumped into a familiar looking unicorn. “Oh… sorry.” I said.

“Who dares run into THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE?” she yelled.

“Oh, it’s you.” I said rolling my eyes.

“Trixie knows you; you’re Blade, the one who saved the gala from changelings. Of course, I would have stopped the changelings, if I had been there.” She boasted.

“Yeah.” I said sarcastically. “It looked like you could handle those changelings when I found you bound in the back of your store.”

“You were the one who saved Trixie?” she asked.

“Yes, the changeling escaped though. I took you to the hospital.” I said. “Can I go now?”

“You… saved me?” she asked again.

“Yes, I said that already. Why is it such a surprise?” I asked.

“No pony has ever cared about me before.” She said. I noticed she was no longer speaking in the third person.

"Have you ever had any friends?” I asked.

“Uh… no.” she said, lowering her head. “I’ve always been lonely, ponies always hate me.”

“Maybe you should try being nice, and not so boastful.” I suggested.

She looked up at me. “You think that will work?” she asked.

“I think so.” I said. “I have to go, bye.” I rushed off.

“Bye.” She said.

I continued on my way to Dash’s cloud home. I called up to the floating abode. “Hey Lunar, Blaze!” The two alicorns flew down soon after.

“Good to see you. We haven’t spoken since the gala.” Lunar said.

“You too.” I said. “How have things gone?”

“Not much has happened. We’ve just been doing our usual activities.” Blaze said.

“And what have you been up to?” Lunar asked.

“Not much. I’ve been doing my job as the princess’ bodyguard. I haven’t done much else.” I said.

“Have there been any news about Ace or the changelings?” Lunar asked.

"Only that the changelings have destroyed Apploosa.” I responded.

“Applejack told us about that already.” Blaze said.

“Ok, how about we head towards Twilight’s.” I said.

“That is a good idea.” Lunar said. The three of us started walking to the library.

We finally reached Twilight’s home; it was close to three thirty now. We entered the library finding Cadence, Shield, Blue Arrow, and Twi.

“How’s it going Twi?” I asked softly.

“Good, I thought about it and… I can’t forgive you. Not at this moment in time. It’s still too early.” She said.

“I understand, it took me a year to get over my first broken heart.” I said.

“When did you get over that?” Cadence asked.

“After my friends, and my crush, left me, I spent a year alone, thinking. I only got over it all when I met Twi. She helped me make friends, who I honestly think are the greatest ponies ever.” I stated. “You changed my life Twi.”

“A broken heart takes time to fix. It will never truly be fixed though, the memory will stay.” Cadence said.

“Hey Twi.” I said.

“Yes?” she asked.

“Even if you don’t forgive me right now, we can keep in touch, right?” I asked.

“Sure, I can manage that.” She sighed.

“Thank you.” I said.

We stayed and talked for about an hour before we headed back to Canterlot.

“Princess Cadence, should I escort you home?” I asked once we were off the train.

“I’ll escort her; I’m meeting Fleur nearby afterwards.” Shield intervened.

“I’ve noticed that you and Fleur are spending a lot of time together.” I said.

“Yeah… she’s my marefriend.” Shield stated.

“Congrats, but when did this start?” I asked.

“It started soon after you saved her. Thanks again brony.” He said.

“Like I said before, I always help an innocent pony.” I said.

“When you can.” He said heavily.

“Right, when I can.” I said, remembering all the innocent ponies that fell to the changelings.

“Let’s get going princess.” Shield said. “Bye Blade.”

“See you again, Blade.” Cadence said, bidding farewell.

“Bye.” I said, still remembering the fallen ponies.

I started walking towards the castle, only to be stopped by Filthy Rich. “You may have everypony else on your side, but I believe you’re a menace, a cretin. I’ve seen you with Ace’s son, and I don’t trust either of you.” He scowled.

“What do you have against me?” I asked, starting to get enraged.

“What I have against you is the fact that Celestia trust’s you more than any other pony. You’ve only been around for just over a month; I’ve been here for years. The first few minutes of meeting you, she made you her guard. I don’t buy all that’s going on, the return of Ace, a new alicorn, and a war.” He said.

“Ace and I are not the enemies, the changelings are!” I yelled.

“You defeated the changelings momentarily at the gala, but you were injured in the process. Don’t you think the changelings want you gone? They’re going to come after you, and you’re going to put us all in danger.” He said, before trotting away.

“What’s his deal?” I thought to myself.

I headed up to my room in the castle, ready to fall asleep. I opened the door and turned on the light. There was an odd box on the bed. I opened the box, revealing a chain necklace. It had a steel, sun-shaped emblem with a round sapphire on the front. It had the words “Never forget the reason you fight.” engraved on it. I opened the emblem to reveal a picture of all my friends, even Twi. I put it on, instantly feeling power rush through my body. I noticed a note in the box as well. “It took a bit of magic, but the emblem is enchanted. It will help protect you. Celestia.” It said.

“Thank you, princess. I’ll always keep this on me.” I said to myself. I soon fell asleep.