A Strange New World CH3

>You awaken the following morning refreshed, smiling as you stretch out the aches in your limbs.

>From the rays of sunlight that are already piercing the curtains in your room, you could tell that the sun was out in full form.

>A fine morning indeed! Perhaps you should thank Celestia for it, as you had done with Luna the previous night.

>Yes, that’d be a rather nice gesture.

>One final stretch before you don your armour like you had done a thousand times before. Only now, it was out of habit rather than need.

>Looking into acquiring some casual attire would be a good idea, though, as your armour, while invaluable in combat, would only be a hassle for general usage.

>You leave your room, half-expecting either of the princesses to be waiting there, before shrugging and making your way to the main plaza.

>You grin as you see Solaire standing there, calmly chatting to a trio of ponies, all of whom appeared diminutive compared to the tall-standing knight. Your grin grows larger still, as you recognise a particular multi-coloured mane.

“Morning, Solaire!”

>”What? Oh, good morning, Anonymous! How did your night go?”

“Rather well, in-fact!”

>”I should hope so! I myself was just talking to your acquaintance, Miss Rainbow Dash.”

>Rainbow Dash lets out a growl, looking off to the side with a furrowed brow.  "Why can nopony just call me Dash around here?" the pegasus mutters, at which you suppress a chuckle.

>“You made quite an impression, it seems.”

“I would hope so. Morning to you too, Dash.”

>Rainbow Dash nods, a smile gracing her face. “Thanks dude. Lemme introduce you to a couple of my friends.”

>The pegasus motions for her unicorn companions to step forward and you hold out your arm to greet them.

“Pleasure to meet you! I go by the name Anonymous; may I have the pleasure of knowing yours?”

>The first of the pair, a purple unicorn with a collection of stars emblazoned on her flank, steps forward to shake your hand.

>”Of course! I’m Twilight Sparkle, it’s great to meet you!”

>Wait, Twilight Sparkle? Didn’t Luna mention such an individual last night?

“Miss Sparkle, it seems your reputation precedes you.”

>”It does?” she asks, a rosy blush forming in her cheeks.

“Luna herself told me about you, mentioning being a “protégé” of Celestia herself. Must be quite the achievement, no?”

>”She did? Wow! I mean, I know I am the princess’s top student but still, to hear it from Luna herself…” The enthusiastic pony clears her throat in embarrassment.  “Well, I’ll be sure to thank her for the complimen, then.”

“She also mentioned… oh, what was the term… oh yes, an “incessant curiosity”.”

>Twilight’s cheeks redden, and she lets out an involuntary squeak.

>”I suppose I am curious… of course, I’d never annoy or pressure you into answer—“

“It’s alright. I am not so dissimilar from yourself; if you wish to discuss my past world then I’ll be more than happy to do so.”

>Twilight’s ears twitch, before she grins.

>”Alright! I’ll be sure to take you up on that offer.”

>You chuckle before turning to the next stranger, a stark white unicorn with an equally stark mane style.

>”You don’t need to introduce yourself again, darling. You may call me Rarity.”

"Well met, Miss Rarity. I can already tell you're a mare of prestige," you point out, thinking it would motivate her to think well of you.

>”I see you have an appreciation for class,” Rarity giggles, as she gives you a curious look.

“Is there something wrong?” you inquire hesitantly.

>”Of course not, darling! I’m just admiring your surcoat, is all.”

“Huh?”

>”Your surcoat, it’s marvellous! Absolutely marvellous!”

>Your face goes blank as the unicorn starts fawning over your attire.

>”So stylish, yet practical! Tell me, where in Equestria did you acquire such thing?”

“Well, for a start, it wasn’t in Equestria.”

>”Oh, of course. No matter, no matter at all…”

>Rarity begins examining your gauntlets, only adding to your discomfort.

>”Oh no, this will not do at all! You cannot have one arm shielded, and the other with just leather!”

“But I can’t fight with my sword arm armoured-“

>”This isn’t about fighting! This is about symmetry!”

>As Rarity continues her “evaluation”, you lock eyes with Rainbow Dash.

“Help,” you whisper, and she stifles a giggle.

>”Yo, Rarity, I think you’re going a bit overboard with Anon here. Guy’s only just met you, y’know?”

>”Oh my, indeed! Where are my manners?” she asks to no-one in particular

>Rarity regains her composure, flicking her hair back into its class-exuding stance.

>”My apologies, Anon. That was rather uncouth of me," she says remorsefully. "Say, Anonymous? Are you one for mingling with ponies of importance?"

"I'm close to the princesses, but that's it."

>"What a shame. If you do find yourself amongst them, feel free to mention my name, would you?"

“I think getting to know each other better would be a better course of action, don’t you agree?”

“Why certainly, yes. I’d love to get to know one another better, and we’d certainly have a lot to talk about.”

>”I, uh, have to see the princess," Twilight interjects. "Rarity, why don’t you come with me?”

>Behind Rarity, Rainbow Dash appears to be choking on her own laughter, silent tears streaming down her cheeks.

>”Oh, that would be most efficacious! I have this stunning new design for a dress that I’d like her to see…”

>As the duo walks off, you turn back to Solaire, who had been strangely quiet throughout the entire conversation.

“You’ve been awfully qui-“

>You stop mid-sentence, noticing the smile hugging the corner of his lips.

>Rainbow Dash was supressing a giggle, struggling to meet your gaze with a straight face.

“Will you two just grow up? It wasn’t amusing in the slightest, and gods save us if all your friends act like that.”

>Rainbow Dash snorts adorably, before clearing her throat.

>”I’m sorry dude, I really should have warned ya. Rarity is a fashion, whaddya call it, pioneer.”

“Fashion?”

>”You know, looking pretty in stuff.”

“I really couldn’t tell. Honestly, the fawning over my surcoat wasn’t a giveaway at all.”

>Rainbow Dash giggles again, before coughing.

>”So, I bet you’re wondering why we’re here.”

“No actually, but take it as your cue to continue.”

>”Hmmph. Anyway, I’m here in Canterlot for a good reason. Y’ever heard of the Wo-actually, that’s a dumb question.”

“The who?”

>”Ok, there’s this group of pegasi called the Wonderbolts. They’re the most awesomest flying team ever!”

“Flying team? What on earth does that entail?”

>”Flying, duh!” Rainbow Dash repeats, inciting a groan of frustration from you. “You’re telling me you’ve never heard of flying performers?”

“I’m well used to flying creatures, mostly gargoyles with murderous intents. But flying performers? No, I’ve never heard of such acts.”

>”Huh,” Dash utters with a tone of slight surprise. “Maybe I shouldn’t be surprised since you guys aren’t exactly built for flying.”

“So what does this flying team do? I’m guessing it doesn’t involve mid-air mauling of the sort I’m used to.”

>Dash leaps into the air enthusiastically, twirling around above your head.

>”They’re a stunt team, Anon! They do all sorts of heart-stopping, record-breaking moves, all as fast as a speeding bullet. Every year they hold a competition to decide who is the swiftest, quickest, all-round fastest pegasus of them all and guess which talented mare is competing this very afternoon?”

“Hmm, you’ll have to give me a minute to think about it,” you sarcastically mutter.

>”Yeah, real funny. I’m just dying with laughter over here. Well, I guess you don’t want to come, then.”

“No need to be melodramatic. Of course I’ll come, and I'm sure Solaire here is partial to coming as well."

>"Of course I am!" he affirms with a grin.

>Rainbow Dash beams at you.

>”Awesome! You’re a pretty cool guy, Anon.”

“As you’ve told me before,” you retort, a cheerful grin on your face. “Say, I’m about to take another gander round Canterlot. You game?”

>”Sure thing, dude! Just gotta keep an eye on the time; the Wonderbolt's event is later today."

"Today?"

>"Yeah, it's a continuation of yesterday's festival. Yesterday was the remembrance day, today's the competitive events day, and tomorrow there's going to be a giant fair here in Canterlot."

"Sounds enjoyable. Do you think you'll win?"

>"I don't just think I'll win, I know I'll win!" Dash exclaims confidently, throwing her head back proudly.

"That’s the right attitude," you chuckle, before turning to Solaire.

"So, are you coming for a walk, Solaire?"

>Solaire visibly deflates, letting loose a sigh of pure reluctance.

>”Unfortunately, I was meant to attend a meeting with the Captain of the Guard, who has just returned early from his honeymoon. I'll gladly go to the flight spectacle later, though.”

“Of course. Well, best of luck with your business with the captain. Be sure to fill me in on anything important.”

>You wave him off, before turning back to Rainbow Dash.

>”Anywhere in particular you want to go to?”

“No, not really. I assume you don’t mind touring me again?”

>”Nah, I don't mind. There's not much more I could do in terms of practice, and we've got a few hours to kill," she says with a laugh.

“Lead the way then, Dash.”

>You follow her out of the palace entrance, down into the streets of Canterlot below.

>”Y’know, you got on so well with Rarity and Twilight that you should meet my other friends!”

“There’s more? Oh dear… this is going to be a long day.”

>A fair while later, you found yourself back in the same cafe you had visited with Solaire yesterday.

>”So, whaddya think of Canterlot?” the mare asks, sloppily eating what appeared to be two slices of bread cushioning a layer of greens.

“It’s a magnificent city. Not the most impressive location I've ever visited, but by far the most alive.”

>”Alive?”

“You know, bustling and busy and active. Most of the cities I stayed in during the last centuries of my journey were devoid of citizens, long abandoned save for a few enterprising soldiers and bandits."

>A sudden thought pricks your conscious, and you rub your chin in thought.

“Say, you mentioned earlier it was a sporting day today.”

>”Yeah?”

“Well, that makes it sound like there are events going on aside from just your race later.”

>”Well, of course there are! You’ve got the bake off, the knitting competition, the strength tests, the magic duels, and all sorts of events.”

“Knitting is a competition?” you ask incredulously.

>”You’d be surprised how intense it can get,” Dash says with a giggle. “A single wrong stitch can end up as a fight, just like that.”

>Brawling over something as mundane as knitting? You’ll believe it when you see it.

“I see. Will your friends be competing?”

>”Yup. Pinkie Pie and Applejack already had their events earlier, with the bake-off and the test of strength. Naturally, both won by a landslide.”

>She utters this with pride, throwing her head back triumphantly.

>”Of course, it was yours truly who told Pinkie to go for the triple stacked chocolate cake rather than the edible Canterlot sculpture.”

>She chuckles, before suddenly frowning.

>”Wait. Speaking of eating…”

“Hmm?”

>”I haven’t seen you eat anything yet. You didn’t have breakfast, and you refused to order anything here.”

“So? I’m an undead. We don’t need to eat, although we can if needs be.”

>”Undead? So you’re like a zombie?” she asks, her voice adopting a subtle tone of suspicion.

“I’m not quite sure what a “zombie” is, but I’m guessing it's not something pleasant. I assure you, I’m perfectly sane.”

>”You don’t look very dead anyway, how do I know you’re not pulling my hoof here?”

>You sigh, before pulling off your right gauntlet, the glowing brand of the darksign exposed for Rainbow Dash to see.

>”What in Tartarus is that!” the startled mare yells as she jumps in her seat, causing every head in the café to swivel round.

“Keep your damn voice down, I get enough deathly stares as it is!” you whisper.

>Rainbow Dash gapes at you, before sitting back down, a volcanic blush forming on her face.

>“Heh. Sorry about that.”

“No need to apologise. Your reaction was positively tame compared to my discovery of this accursed thing.”

>You pause for a moment, thinking back to the distant day when you acquired your darksign.

>Inside your mind, tantalizing flashes of long lost memories dance at the edge of your vision, ancient remnants of a life forgotten to time…

>”Dude!” Rainbow Dash exclaims, clapping her hooves together in front of your face.

“Huh? What?”

>”You just zoned on me, bro. Quit trying to scare me!”

“Ah, forgive me. It was foolish to resurface such memories mid-conversation. Now, where was I… Oh, yes. The Darksign.”

>You inch your hand towards the mare, who stares down at the glowing ring with a sickened curiosity.

“This is the undead brand, the Darksign. It binds us to the bonfires I mentioned last night, drawing us back upon death.”

>”It’s glowing," Rainbow Dash mutters hesitantly. "Dear Celestia, that’s freaky.”

“You should be thankful it’s glowing. If it was not, we would not be having this conversation.”

>”I don’t follow.”

“When an undead dies, or when a human inflicted with the darksign perishes, they are returned to the nearest focal point of humanity – a bonfire. However, by doing so, they lose everything that made them human. Their souls, and these.”

>You fish a quivering black sprite out of the bottomless box hanging by your belt

“Their humanity.”

>”Whoa, what is that thing?”

>As if on instinct, the mare reaches out of a hoof towards the sprite, and you gently let it rest on her hoof.

“No one really knows. Our souls are what define us: assuming that is true, then what does our humanity do? All I know is that it’s precious. Men kill for it, die for it, brave the most horrifying battles with unknown companions to acquire it.”

>Your words seem lost on the pegasus, who is holding the tiny black presence with both cupped hooves.

>”It’s… I’m not sure what I’m feeling, but it’s whacked out.”

>Reaching over, you gently slide the humanity out of her hooves, before placing it in your strongbox.

>”That was pretty cool," she whispers in awe. "What happens when you lose that stuff?”

“I’ll wait until a better time to talk about that. It’s a grim subject, for sure.”

>”Huh?”

"Trust me. You won't want to hear about it, especially with your competition in a couple of hours. It'll just spoil your mood and your concentration."

>Rainbow Dash leans back in her seat, before shaking her head.

>”Uugh, all this talking and thinking is making my brain hurt.”

“Shall we go, then?”

>”If you want, dude. As you said, we’ve still got a couple of hours to burn until the try-outs begin.”

“Hmm. Maybe…" you begin, before shaking your head. "Actually, let’s just meet your other friends and get this over with.”

>”No need to sound so annoyed," she grumbles.

“Well, given that so far half of your friends I have met have scared the living daylights out of me, I say that I have every right to be reluctant.”

>”C’mon, it won’t be that bad. I’m sure you’ll get on just fine with them. Although," she says with a snicker. ”That whole “not eating food” thing is going to go down really badly with Pinkie Pie.”

“Oh joy. Ah well, no point waiting around. I’m ready to meet them.”

>”That’s good, because they’re right behind ya!”

“I beg your pardo-“

>Before you can finish your sentence, a flurry of pink obstructs your vision.

>”Heya! My name’s Pinkie Pie, it's great to meet you!” the aptly named pony squeals as she bounces up and down.

“Er, hello. I am Anonymous-“

>”Oh, you’re Anonymous? That’s a really cool name! It’s so mysterious and stuff!" the enthusiastic mare gushes, her eyes wide with excitement. "Hey, did your parents choose that name?"

"Uh, no. I decided on it myself," you reply nervously.

>"Oooh, that's strange. Anyway, it's great to meet you, Mr Anonymous!"

“I, er...” Your mind struggles to formulate a reply, words caught in your throat. “It’s good to meet you?”

>”Pinkie, quit being so… yourself!” Dash exclaims, evidently noticing your discomfort.

>”Oh, sorry Dashie! Guess I got too excited again.” Pinkie Pie giggles. “I hope you've been enjoying Equestria so far! It's such an honour to be friends with someponylike you."

"We're friends?"

>"Of course we are!" Pinkie exclaims happily, before a hoof clamps over her mouth.

>"Ah think you're being a bit too forward, Pinkie," the orange pony mutters as she nudges Pinkie to the side. ”Sorry about that, ‘Non. Pinkie Pie don’t know when enough hospitality is enough."

“It’s quite alright. I suppose now would be a good time to introduce ourselves.”

>You extend your hand out.

“Anonymous.”

>”Applejack,” she replies, shaking your hoof with earnest.

“Congratulations on your victory earlier. Dash told me about it.”

“Thanks partner, mighty kind of you to say so,” she replies earnestly, tipping her wide brimmed hat. “An’ don’t mind Pinkie; she’s just tryin’ to be friendly in her own, special way.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Well met, Applejack.”

>A beaming smile graces her face, and you turn back to the excitable pink pony.

"I don't mean to be rude, Ms Pie, but I'm just not used to friendliness of this magnitude."

>"No, it's alright! I was the rude one," she says apologetically, before giggling. "I just get excited when making new ponies I love making new friends!"

"Well, I'm sure we'll be great friends, Pinkie Pie."

>Her smile widens to ridiculous levels, but Rainbow Dash cuts in before she can make a scene.

>"Uh, Pinkie? How about you go see what Twilight and Rarity are up to over at the castle?"

>"Great idea, Dashie! Alright, see you at the race!"

>Pinkie Pie bounds out of the cafe, and Applejack sighs in annoyance.

>"Ah guess Ah'd better go after her, make sure she don't cause too much trouble."

>As the strange-accented pony trails after Pinkie, a thought strikes you.

"Say, weren't there meant to be three ponies?"

>As if in response, you hear a faint squeak of surprise and fear.

>From behind a table, a pink and yellow blur shoots for the door, leaving a wake of confusion.

“Did I do something wrong?” you ask confusedly.

>”Nah dude, that was Fluttershy. She lives up to her name, that’s for sure. Just give it time and she’ll warm up to ya.”

“Are you sure? I mean, if I’ve offended her in any way-“

>”Nah, she’s probably just intimidated by you. She'll say hello when she's ready."

"If you insist."

>Dash stares at the clock, squinting.

>"We should think about going to the stadium now, so you can get your seat early."

"Didn't you just send Applejack and Pinkie Pie to the castle?"

>"Well, yeah. But they know what time the show's at, and once they find the others then they'll walk on down. They would never want to miss a performance from me!"

>The walk to the race is lazy and detour-filled, and you finally arrive just before the event was due to begin.

>Standing outside the packed amphitheatre, you take in the scope of the building with awe.

“Impressive!”

>”I know, right?” Rainbow Dash says excitedly, hovering at your head height.

“I mean, I’ve seen things you wouldn’t believe, but damn. That’s an impressive feat of architecture!”

>”Well, you gonna stand here admiring it, or you gonna follow me in?” she asks, motioning towards the entrance.

>You shrug before following her into the body of the building, whistling as the full scope came into view.

>Hundreds of rows, filled to the brim with cheering ponies, surround a large track in the centre of the stadium. At the centre, a number of pegasi are doing squats, stretches, and numerous warm-ups.

>”Anon!”

>Turning round to the voice, you see Solaire sitting in a bench, accompanied by all five of Rainbow Dash’s associates.

“Ah, Solaire! I see you’ve acquainted yourself with the others.”

>”I already knew of them, during the changeling incident. Charming, aren’t they?”

“That’s one way to put it,” you mutter, staring at Pinkie Pie, who is waving at you energetically. “But yes, they were a pleasure to meet.”

>”Well, looks like the two of you turned up just in time! The race is about to begin!”

>You turn your attention back to the crowd of pegasi, noticing a multi-coloured streak darting down to meet them.

“I didn’t even wish her luck. Oh well.”

>”Ladies and Gentlecolts! Welcome to the annual Wonderbolts speed demon competition!” blares a stern-sounding voice from seemingly everywhere, and you jump in surprise.

“Where on earth did that come from?”

>Solaire, who seems equally fazed, speaks hurriedly into the ear of Pinkie Pie, before turning back to you.

>”She says it’s easier to just call it magic for now.”

“That’s not a very satisfying answer," you grumble. "But it’ll have to do.”

>Ignoring the blaring voice, you notice a flame-haired pegasi, standing atop a podium. She appeared to be holding something unusual between her hooves, perhaps a magical voice amplifier?

>The magic of this world was certainly different than that of Lordran, that’s for sure.

>”Contestants, line up!” the voice booms and the awaiting pegasi assemble at what you presume to be the starting line.

>Rainbow Dash kneels down, eyes forward, utterly focused.

>”On your marks.”

>She tenses.

>”Get ready.”

>A twitch of the back leg…

>”GO!”

>The crowds yell as the pegasi set off, racing above the ground by a few feet, ludicrously fast.

>Almost immediately, Rainbow Dash takes the lead, leaving a namesake trail behind her as she sets off along the track.

>The speed at which she was flying was almost divine, and you even felt a pang of jealousy at your unconventional friend.

>What you would give to be able to move with that speed and grace…

>A unanimous gasp from the crowd snaps you back to attention, and you gape at the sight.

>Rainbow Dash, tumbling into the ground,

“Oh fate be damned,” you whisper, internally debating as to whether to rise and help her or not.

>Rainbow Dash finishes tumbling head over hooves, as the rest of the competitors immediately overtake her. With a great leap, she attempts to join them back in the air, but swiftly falls again, yelling in pain.

>You cringe at the sight of her cradling her left wing, which appeared to be bent at an awkward angle.

>Thankfully, a duo of stretcher-wielding ponies make their way towards her, loading the downed pegasus onto it and evacuating her from the track.

>Glancing at Solaire, Pinkie Pie and the others, you were greeted by a cohort of unhappy grimaces. Applejack had covered her eyes with her hat, Twilight had buried her face in her hoof, Rarity seemed to be grimacing, Fluttershy was biting her lips nervously, and Pinkie Pie’s hair seemed to have forsaken its prominent jubilance, hanging limply.

>For a moment, there is silence amongst the crowd, save for a few discontented mutters.

>”Cloudchaser has taken the lead!” a voice blares, and the crowd suddenly erupts into cheers, the moment of Rainbow Dash’s downing already passing on.

“What do we do now?” you whisper to Solaire, who shrugs in response.

>”What can we do? It would be folly to follow her now. We should try and enjoy the rest of this display!”

“I suppose so,” you say reluctantly, shifting in your ill-fitting seat.

>”Don’t worry about it, Nonny. Dashie’s had worse crashes than that!” Pinkie Pie says assuredly.

“It’s not that I’m worried about. She seemed to have been looking forward to this event for some time.”

>”Well, that’s what we’re here for! We’re her best friends, we won’t let her get sad!”

“Hmm. I think I’ll leave it up to your capable hands-er, hooves, to cheer her up.”

>”Okie dokie! Be sure to drop by sometime though, it’ll be a great surprise!”

>You silently nod, before turning your head back to the race. You couldn’t help but feel pity for Rainbow Dash, but to hell with it, Solaire’s right. Might as well enjoy the rest of the race.

>Later that night, you find yourself in an infirmary of sorts, surrounded by Rainbow Dash’s friends. Solaire had made his way back to the palace, leaving you alone with Twilight Sparkle. All her other friends had apparently gone out to obtain pleasantries for the downed pony, insisting that they’d arrive shortly after the two of you did.

“Are you certain that we’re going the right way?” you ask, apprehensive of your surroundings.

 >You had never had a good experience with traditional healers; they seemed more interested in causing harm than good.

>”The nurse said her room was number 24” Twilight replies, studying the passing rooms intently. “22… 23… ah, here we go!”

>You follow her in, grimacing at the cast which bound Dash’s wings.

>”Hello, Rainbow Dash! How’re you doing?” Twilight asks enthusiastically.

>She is greeted with a murderous look from Dash, whose eyes were bloodshot-red.

>”How am I doing? Take a guess, egghead? How do you think I’m doing?”

>Twilight recoils, shocked at Dash’s outburst.

>”I was hoping I could cheer you up. That’s what friends do!”

>”Well don’t need cheering up, and I sure as hay didn’t ask to see anypony!”

“Well then, shall we just turn around and leave?” you interject impatiently, turning round to storm out.

>”Wait!” she cries, her frown replaced with a face of pure desperation.

>With a sigh, you face Rainbow Dash, who seemed to be on the verge of tears.

>”I’m sorry, I just…” She sniffles. “I just can’t believe that I blew my chance like that.”

>Pushing your impatience to one side, you join her on the bed, laying a tentative arm on her shoulder as Twilight hugs her.

“I understand that you’re bitterly disappointed right now. And while I won’t stand being shouted at, I’m here to help you.”

>”Exactly,” Twilight agrees, mopping at Dash’s tears with a cloth. “We just want to help you, Dash.”

>”Th-thanks, I guess,” she says with a heavy sigh, before gently nuzzling Twilight’s cheek. “Hey, Twilight?”

>”Yes, Rainbow Dash?”

>”Could you get me a glass of water please?”

>”Of course,” Twilight says, offering Dash a sympathetic smile, before trotting out of the room.

>Dash buries her face in her hooves, groaning in frustrated sadness.

>“It’s so bucking dumb. You know why I crashed like that?” she asks, and you shrug in response.

“I couldn’t tell how, it was just so sudden.”

>”A fly. A fly flew up my nose, I got distracted, and you know the rest.”

>Silence descends upon you for a moment.

“A fly?” you chuckle.

>”What’s the joke?” Dash replies indignantly. “I’m telling the tru-“

“Oh, don’t mistake me for making fun of you. Oh no! I was simply remarking…”

>”On what?”

“I myself have had trouble with some flies before. This one time, long ago, I was battling my way through rickety ramparts standing above a nauseating swamp. Two fellow warriors were by my side, and you know what happened? A fly blinded me with some blood, I tripped, and fell to my death in the swamp below. All the while my companions watched on.”

>”Dying sounds a little more serious than a sprained wing, dude.”

“The principal remains the same. I’ve made a right arse out of myself. I’m not going to judge you for what happened.”

>She grunts. “Thanks, I guess. I just worked so hard for that race, you know? So much preparation, so much work. And what happens? I snort a fly and crash my flank into the ground.”

“You think it’s unfair?”

>”I know it’s unfair,” she retorts.

“Hmm.”

>You ponder your reply for a minute.

“Well, I can’t really comment on how fair this all is. Fate rarely is. But let me tell you something. I have experienced a world of suffering, despair, torment. A world that never ceased in trying to bring me down. And yet, where others fell, I stood unvanquished. Not because I was the most dextrous, or the quickest to notch an arrow, or the strongest at arm. No, I kept going because of my sheer determination.”

>”I don’t see how this is relevant-“

“Before I descend into mindless rambling, I’ll make my point. When awful things happen, when your progress is halted, when serious events arise from the tiniest of instigations, don’t get angry. Don’t regret it, don’t think about it, just think to yourself, “I’m going to try again. I will not accept defeat. I will prevail!”

>Rainbow Dash gapes at you, before bursting into laughter.

“What’s so funny?”

>”Dude, do you even realize how cliché that was?!”

“Cliché?”

>”Embarrassing, dude. I mean, I know you wanted to cheer me up and all, but that was really stupid.”

>You feel your face growing red as the rainbow-haired pegasus giggles at you.

“Well, I..." you stutter. "I suppose I’ve said all that needs to be said. Well, best of luck!”

>”Heh. Well, if you’re going for real, then see you around. Sorry about snapping at you earlier, I wasn’t really thinking straight.”

“Not a problem. I hope my, er, motivational words stick with you.”

>”Maybe they will," Rainbow Dash chuckles. "Thanks, by the way. I really appreciate you and Twilight coming to visit me."

>Dash suddenly frowns.

>"Speaking of which, where in the hay is she?”

>As if on cue, the purple unicorn enters the room, levitating a glass of water over to Dash’s bedside table.

>”Want me to stay with you, Dash?”

>”Yeah,” she says quietly. “That’d be nice.”

>She turns to you and offers you a weak smile.

>”Are you leaving now?

“Aye, I’d best be going now. Goodbye for the time being. You know where to find me.”

>”I’m not going anywhere, either.”

“Goodbye then. Farewell to you too, Twilight Sparkle.”

>”Oh, one more thing. A private word, if you will,” Twilight asks earnestly.

>You shrug, nod to Rainbow Dash, and follow the unicorn out into the hall.

>”I got a moment to speak with Princess Celestia during the parade, by the way. She informed of what exactly happened with you, Solaire and that... thing.," she whispers with a shudder.

“Yes, yes. What’s this got to do with anything?”

>”Do you mind if I perform some magical tests at some point in the future?”

“I certainly don’t mind, but what is the need for this “test”?”

>”I think the princess wants to see what your fire magic is capable of,” she replies, before her eyes widen. “Not like she doesn’t trust you or anything!”

“Calm yourself, I never implied she didn’t,” you reassure. “Why not? I’ll co-operate with your tests, if it pleases the princess.”

>”Thank you very much! I’ll also be sure to ask you all about your world!” she squeals, clapping her hooves excitedly.

>You groan internally.

“Well then, if I’m to be ready for such an ordeal I’d best get some rest now. Best of luck, Twilight Sparkle.”

>”Goodbye,” she giggles, before prancing into the infirmary room, leaving you alone in the intimidating hallway.

>No sense waiting around in this forlorn building. You might as well head back to the palace now.

>By the time you arrive back to the palace, the place you were beginning to call home, the sun had started to creep below the horizon, making way for Luna’s moon.

>An exhausted Solaire greets you in the entrance, lazily waving to you as you approach.

>”Anon, I got word from the armorer that your weaponry is fit for returning. You should be able to go collect it when you see fit.”

“I see, thank you.”

>Solaire lets loose a hearty yawn, contrasting with how energetic he had seemed earlier.

“You look shattered, Solaire. What happened?”

>He sighs, cupping his jaw with his hand.

>”I’ve spent the last few hours with Shining Armor, the actual captain of the royal guard.”

“Didn’t you already hold palaver with him earlier?”

>”Indeed, but his concerns brought me back yet again. He’s quite angry.”

“How so?”

>”For a start, he’s adamant that we should have summoned him back from his honeymoon in whatever foreign land it was. He said that the safety of Equestria was far more important than his trip, and that we were utter fools for not acquiring his help.”

“He seems to be forgetting the part where we took care of the problem ourselves.”

>”I think that’s the only thing that stopped him thrashing me senseless!” Solaire chuckles, a weak smile forming. “But he has a point. In the past we’ve relied on each other, Anonymous, and that’s all we needed. But mayhap it is time to start looking to others for help. We can’t just be sticking around with each other for the rest of our lives.”

“I know what you’re trying to say, and I agree. In Lordran, we didn’t even have anyone else to rely on. But now that we do…”

>You pause.

“Funny that you should bring this up, Solaire. I had a proposition, if you have a moment to listen.”

>”Of course I do, what is it?”

“You obviously know of Rainbow Dash, yes?”

>”Indeed. Why do you ask?”

“Her wing is hurt pretty badly. I plan on visiting her when she gets out of hospital-“

>”And during her visit, I hope!”

“Er, of course. Anyway, she’ll most likely be returning home, as she alluded that Canterlot is not her town of residence.”

>”Ah, so you’ll be leaving to visit her?”

“Perhaps. I’m curious enough to see what other towns in this land hold for me, although I do suppose I’ll remain in Canterlot a while longer.”

>”Well, if it is to pursue a friendship, then I suppose I have no grounds to complain.” Solaire mutters. “Still, it seems rather early to be thinking about gallivanting off, doesn’t it?”

“I’m not going to be leaving immediately, of course. It’s just something I’ll be thinking about in the future.”

>”Very well then,” Solaire says with a heavy sigh. “I’d be terribly disappointed if you wandered off so early. I know I said we need to become more independent, but I’d still rather have you here than the Equestrian countryside.”

“I’d rather be here too. But, you know me. Sooner or later I’ll get the urge to travel.”

>”With a little motivation from Rainbow Dash, eh?” he chuckles.

“Possibly. “

>”Very well then. You know I’m only concerned for you as a friend, yes?”

“I’d expect nothing less from you, Solaire. Thank you.”

>”I should warn you though, Equestria is nothing like Lordran.”

“How come?”

>”Well,” he begins, rubbing his chin in thought. “For a start, the currency here is backed by coin, not souls, but I'm sure you're already aware of that.”

“Aye, I've got a few coins to last me.”

>”Secondly, you can afford to unwind here. It's far less dangerous than Lordran, so you don't need to scare everyone by traipsing around in armour, sword at the ready.”

>He pauses for a moment, before snapping his fingers.

>”One last thing. Magic here doesn't work the same way, so be careful when using that pyromancy of yours.”

“In what ways does it differ?”

>”For example, I can inbue my miracles with more strength by praying to Celestia, and the lightning I've cast since then has... changed.”

“Really? That's certainly unique,” you say, surprised by this admission. “Do you think it could affect my pyromancy?”

>”Who knows?” he responds, shrugging. “At this time I have no idea.”

“I'll keep this in mind then, and investigate further when I can.”

>He nods in approval, before swaying on his feet and groaning in discomfort.

>”I think I’m going to go lie down. Word of advice? Don’t get in a shouting match with Shining Armor.”

“I’ll be sure to avoid him from now on. Say, what do you plan on doing now that your “duties” have been relieved?”

>”What do I plan on doing? I plan on taking a well-deserved break from this entire ruckus!” he chuckles, before sighing. “Yes, maybe a nice relaxing millennia will do the trick.”

“I can’t imagine you shying away from the heart of combat. You don’t suit a passive life.”

>”Well now, I’ve never had a chance to test that, have I?”

“I suppose not. Ah well, never mind. We’ll just end up talking in circles. I suppose you want to get some rest now, eh?”

>”You don’t know the half of it, Anon. I’ll see you come morning, then. Have a good night.”

“Sleep well, Solaire. I’ll be sure to heed your advice.”

>He grunts in reply, already making his way to Celestia’s quarters, and you sigh.

>Shining Armor sounds like a piece of work. Thankfully, with your day being taken up with Twilight, it’s unlikely you’ll run into him.

>Before you return to the comfort of your quarters, you decide to stop by the armoury to reclaim your rejuvenated weaponry.

>Your expectations of an empty, quiet smithy are shattered as you reach the armoury: Working a grindstone with a pile of identical steel swords was a peculiar pegasus with strange eyes and bat-like wings.

“What are you doing here at this ungodly hour?” you ask distrustfully, wary of the pony. Was he a new species you hadn’t seen or caught word of?

>”I’m the night guard. What are you doing up so early?”

>You blink in surprise, before scrambling for a response.

“Early? It’s almost midnight!”

>”Exactly,” the pony replies irritably. “I take it you’ve never heard of the term ‘nocturnal’, have you?”

“Nocturnal?” you ask, your nerves easing. “No, I can’t say I have. I’m guessing it means you’re a creature of the night, yes?”

>”Correct,” the guard replies in a matter of fact tone. “I take it you’re here for your weapons?”

“Indeed.”

>”They’re in the back. But before you go, heed some advice.”

>You raise an eyebrow.

>”Treat your weapons with a little decency, alright? Half of those blades were damaged through sheer negligence and mistreating. A little polish and grind once in a while does wonders.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” you grunt, before making your way to the back.

>It was true that you tended to favour your trusty straight sword and double handed claymore more than anything else, but you hadn’t thought your weapons were in that bad of a state.

>You pack your sharpened, refurbished arms back into the bottomless box, this time with a little more care and finesse than you normally would.

>The bat pony guard barely acknowledges you as you exit, apparently unfazed that you were carting around enough weapons to arm a militia in your pocket dimension.

>Striding down the corridors, you take the quickest route back to your quarters.

>To your surprise, you encounter Luna standing in the corridor, examining a painting curiously.

>Her look of aloofness turns into one of delight as she notices your presence, and you join her side.

>”My, we certainly are seeing each other a lot this past while. If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were doing it on purpose.”

“Maybe I am,” you say evasively. “Your company is always a lovely thing, after all.”

>”As is yours,” Luna says with a beaming smile. “I presume you are intending to sleep now, yes?”

“I was going to get some rest,” you begin, noticing the slight frown of disappointment Luna adopts. “But it’s still a ways walk to my quarters, and a bit of company wouldn’t hurt.”

>With a heart-melting smile, Luna joins your side and escorts you through the corridors.

>”I had a run in with some strangely winged pegasus in the armoury. I don’t suppose he’s one of your guards, is he?”

>“The bat ponies are under my command,” Luna explains with a slight hint of pride in her voice. “They’re just like regular ponies aside from aesthetics and their nocturnal behaviour, and they perform the duties of the royal guards during the night. They’re also my bodyguards, for when I am out in public.”

“I’ll make sure not to get on their bad side then,” you chuckle. “Say, speaking of going out in public…”

>Luna cocks her head at you, an eyebrow raised.

“The final day of festivities take place tomorrow. Would you like to join me as a friend?”

>Luna blinks in surprise.

>”I do not know,” she mutters hesitantly. “I have never really participated in this event-“

“Nor have I. It’ll be a first time for us both.”

>Luna appears to mull it over for a moment before smiling.

>”Very well, Anon. I’ll go with you.”

“Fantastic!” you exclaim, happy that the princess was willing to enjoy the festivities with you. “It’ll be fun, I’m sure of it.”

>Luna nods in affirmation, before motioning with her hoof.

>”Splendid timing, we’ve arrived at your quarters.”

“Thank you for your company, Luna.”

>”No, thank you. Goodnight, and sleep well.”

>You offer a courteous bow to Luna before entering the room.

>In a haze of tiredness, you strip of your armour and climb in between the luxurious bed-sheets, welcoming the sleep which soon comes to you.