//------------------------------// // Chapter 15: Harmony // Story: Settling In // by pchn00 //------------------------------// Chapter 15: Harmony The young pegasus let out a loud groan as she floated lazily across the surface of the swimming pool sized royal bath tub. The bath chambers were big enough to fit her entire house from Ponyville within them. Everything was a pristine black marble, while scented candles lit the room in a dim light. A huge window emitted plenty of silvery moonlight. All and all it was very relaxing. Luna was in the process of gently easing herself into the steaming water ensuring the filly’s attention was away from her she bit her lip in a pained expression as her throbbing flanks hit the hot water, but the pain was soon washed away by the comforting warmth. Face returned to its impassive mask she regarded the young pony sharing the tub with her. “Your nose looks better Jennifer.” The happy filly only gave a lazy nod in response. A quick healing spell fixed the break, but not the black eyes the blow had caused, giving the young pony a raccoon-like mask. The princess did feel terrible at the vicious strike she’d delivered but of course her young protégé brushed it off with barely a word. The more time she spent in the girl’s company the more sure she was of her decisions thus far. Eventually Jen got her wits about her enough to shift and settle her rump on the shallower end of the tubs floor. It obviously had to be deep enough to accommodate the much larger alicorn, but there was a shallow side for normal sized ponies. “So spill it. How come you didn’t tell me you were in the order? You knew I was looking into it.” Luna sighed gently. She knew this would be coming. For a moment she cursed revealing her weapons to the perceptive girl, but more than likely she would have discovered it on her own anyhow. “The order of harmony was disbanded centuries ago Jennifer. Before my banishment. I did not believe it relevant. Until you returned from your exploits bearing Mercy I suspected most of the Arms of Harmony had been destroyed or lost forever.” Jen’s ear flicked gently at a couple key phrases. “You said the order WAS disbanded, not that it DID disband. So someone broke it up?” A quick flash of…something crossed the normally composed princess’ face. “We will speak of this once, and only once Jennifer. I will tell you what I CAN, if you give me your word you will not delve further into what caused the order to disband. Will you?” Eyes wide Jennifer could only nod. After another moment’s hesitation Luna began. “Understand there is a reason I am vague on this subject, only my sister and I recall the truth of those horrible times and it must remain that way. After Discord was dethroned, but before Celestia and I took the throne there was…another ruler. Her reign was brief but caused more damage than Discord could ever hope to do. She forced the order to break apart. When we tried to defy her she slew most of our number and scattered the rest.” Jen was inching forward more and more with every word. “And?” “And nothing. That is all I will tell. And I will hold you to your word not to poke your nose into this issue deeper. I have only said this much to prevent you from doing just that. If you value our friendship at all Jennifer, you will not look into this further. It is far too dangerous; the evil you could inadvertently unleash would mean the end of all we know.” At first disappointed, but the weight of Luna’s words sunk heavily into Jennifer. Slowly she nodded. “Yes princess…I-I want to know more but if it’s REALLY so important I don’t I won’t go looking. I can keep reading about the order though right?” Now Luna smiled gently. “You may. I would be happy to answer any questions you have as well. It was a wonderful time of my life, being chosen as Nightbringer’s new bearer. Celestia we inducted as well of course. Her sword Corona rests in her chambers, the original bearer was Comet Streak. I will show it to you if you like?” “I would! D’you know anymore?” Jennifer was practically hopping on her hooves now…that is until her body reminded her painfully of the royal thrashing she just received. That went a long way to subduing her enthusiasm. “Only one. Princess Cadence was accepted by Convalescence crafted for Healing Touch. I am unsure of the exact circumstances leading up to her receiving the scepter as it occurred during my banishment.” Jennifer looked to Mercy lying beside the rub. “So who owned Mercy?” “Starswhirl the Bearded was Mercy’s original bearer. He passed it on to his squire but rather than retire from the order he crafted the first of the new Arms of Harmony for himself. He never left the order until the end…” She trailed off with a frown. “So besides Mercy, there’s Nightbringer, Corona, and Convalescence…that means healing or something right?” “Or something.” “How many were there in all?” “Thirteen when all was said and done. Though only six were crafted at first. I’m sure your book would prove more illuminating on that subject than I could.” Jen sank into the water a little further. “D’you miss Celestia?” The alicorn sighed softly. “I do. We were separated for a thousand years, than reunited for so short a time before we had to split again. Still it’s not forever. She’ll be back soon enough.” The filly resumed her lazy floating. “Can’t wait to meet her.” “Mmm. I hope the two of you get on as well as we do.” It was nearly time to raise the sun, and Luna gently nudged Jennifer out of the tub. “Alright I must get ready for my rest and I am sure you would like to get further in your book before you must go to the university and meet Spellweaver yes?” “Oh! Good point.” Gingerly she pulled herself from the groaning a little as her aches made themselves known again. “Maybe we do something besides sword practice tonight…” Luna laughed lightly and gentled dried the pair with her magic. “Perhaps a good idea.” Jen followed her out then frowned as the princess made for a room she’d never been in before. “That’s not your bedroom is it?” “Hm?” Luna glanced back. “No but I have another guest staying in these chambers and I try to make it a point to check on her before I rest each day.” Jen furrowed her brow. “Is she sick? I can help out during the day while you sleep.” With a quick look into the partially opened room Luna frowned a touch. “That won’t be necessary. She should be on her hooves again soon; you can meet her then hm?” Curious but more interested in returning to her book Jen shrugged. “Alright then. G’night Luna.” With a smile and a nod to the filly the princess waited for her to leave before stepping into the darkened room. Sighing softly she settled on the bed beside the young recovering alicorn. “I hope you two get along. You’ve so much in common…” *** We reached my master’s chambers and found them to be in a terrible state of disarray. Books lay scattered about the floor, some with pages torn from the bindings and plastered about the walls. Magical diagrams and theorems I was only beginning to comprehend in my own studies wove an intricate tapestry about the room. “Master perhaps you should get some rest?” I knew my efforts were in vain but I had to try. He frowned at me for a moment, uncomprehending. “Rest? Soon, soon.” The doors slammed shut behind Sunshine, the last of us to enter. The poor colt leaped nearly a foot in the air much to Abundance’s amusement. “You six are friends yes?” It was fair to say we were all on friendly TERMS with one another certainly. Friends may have been a strong word, but I didn’t want to upset my already unbalanced master. “Yes sir I suppose we are.” “Good! Good the spell will be much stronger if there’s already a bond.” Without warning he lifted the six of us into the air with his magic, at first alarmed we slowly calmed as he gently maneuvered us to one of the six magical diagrams drawn onto the floor of his chamber. Curiously I examined the intricate runes along the outside of the circle. “Master what is all this? What’s this about?” He seemed to be growing more excited as he moved from one pony to the next, examining us each closely. “What is the most powerful force on Terra, Starswhirl?” I shrug. “Harmony of course master. It’s one of the first lessons we learn as foals.” “Harmony! Precisely!” To my surprise the circles we stood in were beginning to illuminate themselves. Colored magical light began to spread along the intricate patterns of the runes as if an unseen painter was spreading a brush across them. My master looked to Sunshine, the youngest of us. “Tell me young colt, what are the six tenants a harmonious pony must have within himself to be in balance?” Sunshine seemed to be taking everything going on around us the best, watching his own circle gently filling with a warm blue light. The colt’s tail twitched excitedly as he was clearly enjoying the goings on. “That’s easy sir! Laughter, kindness, honesty, loyalty, generosity, and magic!” “Quite right young fellow, very well done.” My own circle was filling with a faint magenta glow. Gentle’s was pink, Comet’s red, Silent was surrounded by an orange glow, and Abundance was a deep shade of purple. “What is the most powerful form of magic known to ponykind, Healing Touch?” My friend frowned timidly and gently prodded the now fully glowing pink circle surrounding her body. “Ah…oh um, evocation master?” Our master clicked his tongue reproachfully, then stopped. “Oh I suppose it’s not your fault you’ve been misinformed. That would be my fault wouldn’t it?” He laughed, the slightly manic tone doing little to assuage the nerves of those of us not quite as comfortable in the obviously powerful ritual. Little arcs of energy were flickering across our hooves, the colors matching the circles. “No my apprentice, though that was a good guess! No the most powerful magic a pony can wield comes from the bonds we form with our fellows. Think of it! One unicorn is strong enough to lift great weight with our magic yes? Twenty of us come together to move the sun and the moon each day of course.” I caught on quickly. “Are you suggesting you’ve found a new way to harness the bond between ponies for some new purpose? A way to help protect ourselves from our enemies?” “Precisely! When performing the raising ritual for the sun and moon we form a temporary bond uniting our mana pools to grant access to a very powerful spell casting. What if one could form a PERMANENT bond with his fellows hm? A bond that not only shares mana, but all of ones strengths with the other.” The four less magically minded ponies had remained silent, allowing Healing and myself to do all the talking. “Sir are you suggesting you wish to form such a bond between he six of us?” “Yes! You each strongly embody one of the core tenants of harmony! Imagine the things you six will be capable of when you share your might with one another. Each bringing something very different to contribute, but in the end when all six elements are combined…if my theory is correct…you will each find perfect harmony within yourselves. Imagine the feats you’ll be capable of! Nopony has ever dared try and tap into the force of harmony itself but I believe when this is finished you’ll be able to do just that!” Abundance finally spoke up. “Sir, I mean no disrespect but I’m a simple baker. A very good baker but a baker none the less. Shouldn’t something this…important be kept among the soldiers and sorcerers?” Comet and Silent both looked less than enthusiastic about the idea. “Yeah I don’t know about this grandfather. This is all a little…weird. Can we have a chance to think about it?” Meteor looked taken aback. “Think about it? This is your duty you foolish colt. This could be exactly what’s needed to save us all! Think about it! There will be no THINKING about it!” “Master with all due respect…what you’re proposing I admit is very exciting. The possibilities are astounding but I feel the only way the bond you wish to forge between us will truly take hold is if we’re all in agreement. Please allow us a short time to discuss it amongst ourselves?” I was used to my master’s little bouts of manic activity and found a calm rational mind was generally enough to get through to him. He was still for several moments before the light surrounding us abruptly went out. “Yes. Yes that’s an excellent point Starswhirl. Work this out quickly. I’ll return momentarily.” Everypony present breathed a sigh of relief as he left. Abundance spoke first. “He’s…alright, isn’t he?” I chuckled. “He is, but when he discovers the answer to a particularly tricky question he gets excited. I meant what I told him however, this is an amazing idea and the opportunity presented to us is too good to pass up. However I also meant it when I said this must be a mutually accepted bond. Forcing it on somepony will likely pervert the results.” I was not at all surprised when Healing stepped to my side immediately. “Well I’m with you Starswhirl.” Sunshine was next, bounding over to me with his usual energetic flair for everything he did. “Me too! This sounds fun!” Hesitantly Comet Streak took a place beside Healing Touch. “I’m not gonna pretend I get what all this is about but if my grandfather thinks it’ll help our tribes I’m with you.” Abundance sighed softly as she cantered to stand with Sunshine. “Someone has to keep an eye on you. Spirits know what you’d do with…whatever power this is going to give you if nopony’s there to keep you out of trouble.” Only Silent Step didn’t come forward. She regarded us with a frown, though there was something I’d never seen before in her usually dark eyes. A deep sadness. “I can’t. I don’t know what the royal sorcerer thinks he sees in me but it’s not there. This isn’t something for a pony like me.” Four of us shared an uncomfortable look. Her words weren’t anything we could really disagree with. It was Healing Touch, the pony who seemed to care for Silent the least that approached the mare. “Nopony here is perfect Silent Step. We’ve all done things we wish we could take back I’m sure. Yours might be a bit more…extreme than ours but when it comes down to it you’re a pony just like the rest of us. You care about your kingdom and your tribe. I think that’s enough to warrant you standing with us. And if your actions bother you this much, it’s never too late to change.” The assassin stared at my friend for several long moments, before she silently took her place at Comet Streak’s side. With a satisfied little smile Healing Touch came back to me. No sooner had we decided than our master returned. “Well back to your circles! We have a ritual to perform!” We all took our places, and the ritual began again. The circles glowing brighter and brighter. So brightly I found it hard to make out anything outside of the magical diagram I was standing within. Suddenly- Another, more insistent knock sounded at Jen’s door. “Jubilant? The chariot is here to take you to the university! The driver’s waiting!” With a scowl at the closed door the filly reluctantly rolled off the bed to her hooves and gently tucked the book into one of the saddlebags she slung over her back. Hopefully she’d have time to keep reading while the professor ponies examined Mercy. She followed the impatient day guard to the waiting chariot and clambered inside. It wasn’t a terribly long ride to the university. Jen hopped down from her ride with a quick thank you to her driver before trotting up the path to the school grounds. It reminded her of pictures she’d seen of the big colleges back home. Huge campus grounds, students milling about the lawns and hanging around the doors of the school itself. Only this particular college was for unicorns. Everywhere she looked ponies were practicing spells of some sort. She poked her nose into the main building following the signs to an administration office. After a brief wait she was standing before a bored looking older mare. “Can I help you?” “Oh! Um…I’m here to see Spellweaver? I have an appointment I guess.” A brief flash of recognition crossed the secretaries’ features. “Oh you must be the princess’ student. I thought you were a unicorn?” Jen shrugged. “Sometimes.” “…right. Spellweaver’s set up for you in lab c. You’ll want to go outside and follow the path around the building to find the labs. You can’t miss it. It has a big C on the building.” Resisting the urge to roll her eyes the filly chirped a pleasant ‘thanks!’ and was off on her way again. Trotting around the main building she did indeed see a cluster of smaller ones along the path. A sign indicated labs A-K were to the left so left she went. Finding C was simple enough; the door was unlocked so she let herself in. Unicorns were rushing about in some sort of a frenzy ranging from all ages it seemed. Spellweaver was in the center of it all directing his charges. “Ah! Miss Pie you’re here!” Jen offered him a smile in greeting and cantered to his side. “Well I said I’d be. And you don’t need the Miss Pie stuff, Jen or Jubilant is fine.” “Of course, of course. You didn’t strike me as the sort to stand on ceremony. Never had much use for it myself. There’s a breakfast table set up there for you.” Jennifer followed the stallion through the small crowds to a table laden with all kinds of breakfast foods, (minus bacon of course…sigh). “Are you able to ah…change between tribes at will?” Jen who was busy clumsily scooping some eggs onto the plate via ladle in her mouth gave a muffled ‘mm hm’. “Ah! Would you be willing to adopt the unicorns for this morning? The arms of harmony were originally crafted with them in mind and we’d like our initial analysis to be as pure to the original source as possible. I don’t know how being a pegasus or earth pony might affect your bond. We’d like to study that in the future but for now the base unicorn is preferable.” With a little shrug Jen shifted to her unicorn state by pressing her hoof to the proper charm. “Simply amazing. Of course that’s our princesses for you. The things they can do with magic…” He sighed wistfully. “And your horn is fully functional?” Rather than a verbal response Jen shifted to using her levitation magic to fill her plate. “I can do basic stuff and a few simple spells. Twilight says I have tons of mana but I don’t have a head for the complicated spell work.” He regarded her curiously. “Exactly how much mana is ‘tons’ of mana?” “Umm…I dunno. She just said a lot. She didn’t really give me a basis for comparison or anything. She sounded impressed if that helps!” She WAS pretty hungry and was starting in on her now-heaping plate. “Would you mind if I performed a brief examination?” She shrugged. “Nope. Is it just the same thing Twilight Sparkle did? To peek at my magic or whatever?” Nodding gently he smiled. “Or whatever, yes. A bit of that and a bit to see exactly how much mana you’re taking in. I’ve studied what little recorded information there is on your world. One of the perks of having such a high rank at the university is I get access to often restricted information. If I’m being completely candid it’s not just your sword I was curious about. I feel I must apologize for not being perfectly honest with you before.” Jen laughed a little. “Hey it’s cool. As long as you don’t wanna like dissect me or anything. I can understand being curious about the alien suddenly wandering around your home.” He joined in her laughter. “No nothing so morbid I assure you. Though come to think of it that would be interesting, to see how you tick as it were.” He hastily waved his forehooves at the dawning look of alarm on the filly’s face. “Aha! Not by cutting you open of course! There are spells that would allow us to see your innards while you’re very much alive.” Jen was in the process of searching for the nearest door before Spellweaver's last comment. She relaxed and chuckled weakly. “Scared me for a minute there professor. I could be human for this if you want. As long as my horn is there my magic’s no different whether I’m all or part pony.” “Oh if it’s no imposition that would be fantastic.” Setting her plate aside she retrieved a stretchy pair of shorts and something akin to a sports bra from her saddle bag, worming them awkwardly onto her quadruped body. It was an idea Rarity came up with for her, something she could carry around in case of an ‘emergency’. She was glad she remembered to bring them with her for once. Gently tapping the human charm she stood up on two legs again, the clothes now fitting properly. “Ah! Yes the nudity taboo. Fascinating quality to have.” Jen shrugged and sat cross legged on the floor taking her plate again. “I mean we don’t have fur so the whole clothes thing started off as a necessity. We don’t control our weather so the only way to fight the cold was to bundle up. I guess the ‘it’s wrong to be naked’ stuff came later.” “Is the cold a concern for you? You’re not very heavily clothed and it IS rather drafty in here.” “Nah my amulet keeps me warm all the time when it’s near my sword. A happy little side effect of the magic in them hating each other I think.” “Ah of course…” He eyed the gem hanging around her neck dubiously. “Half of Discord’s magic is it not?” “Yeah. Don’t worry as long as I’m near Mercy it’s not gonna cause any trouble.” This seemed to ease his concern somewhat. “Well! I’m sure you have things you’d rather do today than listen to me prattle on, shall we get to the testing floor?” Setting her empty plate back on the table Jen stood, slinging her saddle bags over her shoulder and followed the professor down into the main lab. It was only vaguely similar to Dr. Sanders’ lab on earth. There were a few machines and it had the same sterile environment feel to it. But the exam table Spellweaver had her climb onto was comfortably padded. “Only you can touch Mercy correct?” “I think so. The people back on earth who tried got shocked by it. A lot.” Tentatively the aging stallion reached a hoof toward the shield. It hummed with a faint warning of magic but he pressed on resting his hoof against the surface lightly. He was gently nudged away. “Guess it likes you more than them.” He laughed. “Indeed though not enough for me to hold it I suppose. Would you place it on the other table just there? That’s not too far to ah…cause trouble is it?” Shaking her head she slid off the table and removed Mercy from her arm. “You want the sword out or in?” “Out please.” She drew the blade and every eye was riveted as its full shining length was revealed. The runes glimmered faintly across its surface as she laid it out beside the shield. “I’ll be heading up the examination of the sword Jubilant. My assistant son Spell Twister will see to examining you. His specialization is in new medical magic’s so you’re in good hooves.” Another stallion trotted to the table she had resettled on. The family resemblance was only in the eyes. Twister had the same dull grey eyes his father had, but his coat was a shockingly neon green color. “Hey there! I’m gonna be looking around at your insides today.” Jen laughed at his casual approach. “Just be gentle with me.” “But of course. You don’t have a thing to worry about this is a pretty simple spell.” A few glimmering crystals drifted into the air above the girl as she laid out on the table. “These are recording gems. They’re going to capture everything the spell reveals so we can study it later without forcing you to sit there alright?” “Sure I guess.” “So basically the spell I’m going to use is a selective invisibility. Rather than make your whole body invisible I’m going to do it in layers. We’ll start with your skin. Once it’s invisible I’d like you to do a few basic movements and stretches so we can see how your muscle works.” “Huh. That’s kinda neat. Sure I can do that.” “Good, good.” His horn glowed with a gentle rosy light. It spread across her body and soon she could see the veiny red muscle her skin normally hid. She was caught somewhere between grossed out and intensely fascinated as she lifted a hand flexing her fingers. Watching the way her muscle shifted and rippled with each movement. “Please stand.” She did as he asked. Spell Twister had her do a few basic movements. Walking a few steps, jogging in place. Stretching her arms over her head and bending at the knees. “Hm. Remarkably similar to a minotaur in musculature, though obviously significantly diminished physical power. Alright Jubilant you can lay back down.” She did as he began the next level of the spell. The muscle faded away to reveal her bones and organs. The odd sensation of curious and ew gross was back in full force as she stared down at her own chest wide eyed (not that anypony could tell of course, her eyelids being invisible and all). Spell Twister was standing on a booster next to the table eyeing her inner workings with a critical eye. “Not so different from us really. Everything’s more or less arranged in a similar manner if shifted for bipedal rather than quadrupedal. I see something extra in the digestive tract, likely to help digest meat? You’re an omnivore right?” “Oh uh, yeah. I eat meat, veggies, fruit. If it’s edible I eat it.” “I see some deep scar tissue along your abdomen here, is that normal for your kind?” “No. I got that when Discord nearly cut me in half.” The young stallion shifted uncomfortably. “A-ah! I see…so that’s not…always there on a human?” “Nope.” “You can go ahead and sit up if you like. Do you mind letting the crystals record some of your bodily functions at work? “ “Ehh…I guess not? This is a little weird but it’s not hurting me or anything. I’m not gonna like…go sterile or something from this am I?” He chuckled. “No you’re perfectly safe.” “Oh cool, cool. So I just…sit here?” “If you don’t mind. A half hour to an hour should be more than enough data.” “Hm. It ok if I read my book some?” She was already reaching for her bag. “Oh! Ah, of course. Dad’s going to be busy with his spells over your sword for a bit so he probly won’t need you for a while.” Smiling she cracked the book and found her place. *** Suddenly magenta shafts of light erupted from my chest. Five of them each spearing out of the circle that held me and I presume into the other ponies assembled. My suspicion was confirmed as identical spears of light made their way back through the circle and INTO my chest; only each of the five was a different color. One for each of the other ponies participating. I am hard pressed to describe the exact sensation. How could a sea pony explain breathing water to me? The very concept is so foreign, so impossible to comprehend without experiencing it first-hand that I believe it impossible to do so. That is what this was like. Feeling the bond form between the six of us there are simply no words to describe it. The best I can do is that it suddenly felt like I was missing five appendages I never knew I lacked, and then all of a sudden they were there. The lights faded abruptly, but the connection remained. Would always remain. I don’t know how I knew that but I did. A feeling of light headedness threatened to sweep my from my hooves but I shook it off and looked about at my fellows. Sunshine was flat on his back hooves kicking lazily in the air as he guffawed at nothing; evidently he didn’t try to fight the dizziness but embraced it. Abundance was sitting on her haunches regarding the rest of us quietly. Comet and Silent were grinning at one another. Silent Step was grinning; I don’t think I’ve ever seen that pony crack the smallest of smiles let alone wear one that could rival Sunshine’s. Healing Touch was regarding me with her usual calmness. I’m not sure what I expected when she stepped in closer to me, but her kissing me was not high on the list. She broke the embrace soon, too soon in my opinion and whispered softly in my ear. “You should have spoken up sooner Starswhirl; we’re not getting any younger.” Teasing laughter and gentle catcalls came from the others as I blushed hotly. Our master looked supremely satisfied. “Six ponies bonded together in perfect harmony. You are what we have been waiting for. You can stand against the cruel monsters of the world and protect our people.” Four of the six of us were certainly capable of doing just that. While Healing and I were no soldiers we had a considerable wealth of knowledge in combative magic’s. Healing Touch preferred the healing schools of course but in a time of constant war and strife everypony must be prepared. Comet and Silent were both well acquainted with the battlefield. Only Abundance and Sunshine were questions in our minds. Would they be able to take the field? Should they be forced to? Baker and apprentice realized the scrutiny they were under from the rest of us, and neither disappointed. “I may not be a great warrior like Comet Streak, or a powerful sorcerer like Starswhirl but I’m willing to do my share. Even if it’s just making sure we’re all well fed out there.” Ever cheerful Sunshine grinned his cheerful smile. “No way would I let my friends run out there into danger without me! Somepony has to make sure Abundance stays safe after all.” We shared another laugh. It was decided. We would take the field together, for good or ill we’d not be separated. The king was pleased to have his ‘perfect warriors’ but I chafed at the name. We all did. We were deployed to the eastern border without delay. Our king wanted as impressive a display of our new might as he could muster and felt the dragons were the way to send a clear message. Our group was tense as we neared the battlefront. We could see the great plumes of black smoke from the dragons’ breath some distance away. Teams of pegasus warriors flitted here and there over head and the flash of lightning mingled with spell fire as our kind battled the fiercest of our foes. Healing Touch and I discussed the possibilities of a spell to lay such beasts low, while Comet and Silent Step debated for a more direct course. We were all greatly enhanced by our bond and they felt blade and arrow would be enough. Truthfully feeling the strength in my limbs I found I couldn’t entirely disagree, but I was a sorcerer. The idea of physical combat felt a bit beneath me. Our discussion grew more heated and nopony noticed Sunshine had split from us to approach the fighting on his own. It was Abundance of course who noted the colt’s absence and our arguing halted immediately as we began what ended up being a very quick search. We were drawn through the twisting mountain pathways by the sound of…singing. It was Sunshine of course, singing at the top of his lungs, magically amplifying his voice. To our horror the largest dragon any of us had ever laid eyes on (and the first Abundance had ever laid eyes on) descended toward the serenading colt. We were close enough to make out the words by now in our rush to save the foolish lad. Comet and Silent with weapons bared, Healing and myself preparing the mightiest spells we knew. A wasted effort I am pleased to say. Sunshine, sitting on the little ledge and extolling the virtues of a smile of all things had the dragon’s undivided attention. Smiles he claimed (in verse, I don’t recall the exact words), could soothe any hurt feelings, forge strong bonds of friendship, and all around improve anyone’s day. Not just anypony. Most shocking of all of course, was the dragon’s reaction. I’m fairly certain nopony had ever seen one of the beasts smile before yet that was all it could be described as doing. First smiling, than laughing. With a bellow it called to more of its fellows who approached the scene curiously. Sunshine had spotted us by then and eagerly beckoned us closer. He began a new song about the wonderful feelings the bonds of friendship could elicit and I am shocked to say Silent Step was the first to lend her voice to Sunshine’s cause. First the assassin, than Abundance and Healing were quick to join in as well. Comet Streak gave me a helpless shrug, sheathed his mighty blade and was soon belting out the words in his mighty baritone. Almost against my own will I felt the melody slither its way into my head, the words of the song I had never heard before unfolded in my mind and I was singing like a dullard with the rest of my friends. The sounds of battle had died about us and both sides of the conflict merely listened in rapt attention. We sang song after song, all pleasant insipidly cheerful numbers but I must admit, most very catchy and pleasant. Finally our throats grew hoarse and Sunshine seemed to run out of topics to turn into song, so he just looked up at the leader of the mighty wyrms and said, “So what d’you say? Wouldn’t you rather be friends with us than keep trying to eat us?” This seemed to amuse the mighty beast. “Eat you? You ponies taste terrible. All stringy and gamey. We want your gems.” Ponies laid down their arms and pegasi dropped from the sky in shock at this pronouncement. Sunshine laughed. “Is that all? Well why don’t we go talk to King Diamond Dust! I bet he’d love to share some of our gems with you in exchange for something YOU have!” A quick exchange among the beasts occurred. “We will meet with an emissary of your king here. How soon may I expect him?” I took the lead now stepping forward in Sunshine’s place. “Tomorrow evening mighty dragon. One of the pegasi will fly ahead of us to deliver the news and your emissary will be here as soon as they are able.” Slowly he nodded his ascent. “Very well. Thank you noble bards, your songs were both inspirational and soothing to our weary ears. Travel well and know you have a friend amongst the dragons.” His piece said the dragon departed leading his fellows from the field and settling across the border calmly. Sunshine just smiled as always when we turned to him incredulously. Abundance began to wallop the poor lad upside the head on our trek back to pony territory. “Running off alone! Singing to dragons! Worry me to death!” He laughed it all off of course. Later I asked him what made him think such an insane idea would work. He shrugged as if it were obvious. “Everyone likes to be shown a little kindness Starswhirl. Dragons have hearts and friends and families too. Maybe all we really need to do out here is try and be understanding of our neighbors a bit more.” Wise words from the unlikeliest of sources. How I wish the rest of our battles were so easily solved with warm feelings and happy songs. “Jubilant?” Jen blinked up from her book. “O-oh! Sorry I was…” Spellweaver laughed softly. “Enjoying the book. I’m sorry to interrupt but we’re ready for you now.” To her relief her skin was visible again. Seeing her insides working was neat for a bit but it got creepy fast. Mentally marking the page she shut the book and slid off the table sliding Mercy back to its place on her arm. “So whaddo you guys want me t’do?” “We’d like you to demonstrate the swords abilities if that’s at all possible? We’ve learned a good deal about the enchantments binding the magic to the sword. I was right about not being able to hurt it if I wanted to, it’d take somepony as powerful if not more so than the princess to scratch it.” Jen lifted the blade with a shrug. “Sure. The first rune makes it impossible to hurt good folks.” She flipped the blade around demonstrating by sliding it through her chest smoothly, and out her side. After initial gasps of alarm the studious unicorns resumed their note taking. “Runes two and three make shields for myself, and others.” The pink bubble of energy formed around first herself, than around Spellweaver. “Can you maintain it? We’d like to test its strength.” “Sure knock yourselves out.” First Spellweaver began to press on the shield from the inside with his magic. Soon his colleagues were pitching in all gripping, crushing, and pulling at the shield with all the energy they could muster. After enough abuse it finally cracked and fell apart. Though the assembled ponies looked suitably impressed. “I’ve only gotten up to the fourth one…but I’m sure I’m close to the fifth.” She ended the demonstration by calling forth Bleeding Heart. The spectral pony cantered about the lab before resting at Jen’s side. “Astounding! She can affect the physical world I presume?” “She can break stuff if that’s what you mean, yeah. I can’t have her out long, it really drains my batteries.” “Oh don’t strain yourself then, we have all we need for now. Thank you so much for putting up with all this today.” Jen laughed and touching her charm shifted back down to pegasus shape. “No problem. My big plans today were to read and pick up a dress for some party I’m going to tonight.” She tucked the book back in her saddle bags and wiggled out of her clothes, sliding them away too. “What exactly are you guys hoping to find?” “Well. The method of creating such lasting enchantments has been lost since the time of Starswhirl the Bearded. It’s my hope that examining your sword could unlock the mystery of permanent enchantments.” Spellweaver was walking her back out of the lab. “Oh cool. Well if you want me to swing by again just ask. My days are usually pretty dead while I’m in Canterlot.” “I’ll keep that in mind Jubilant. Thank you again, and have a lovely day!” With a smile for the old stallion Jen took her leave, trotting back into the city and leaving the university behind her. “Mm. If I were a fancy dress shop where would I be…?” “A fancy dress SHOP? Why in the world would you need a shop darling? You have ME.” Jen jumped nearly a foot in the air as she whirled to find Ponyville’s premiere dress maker standing behind her, a dazzling smile on the mare’s face and several shopping bags floating on either side of her. “Rarity! Jeez you scared me. I didn’t think I’d run into you til tonight.” Rarity gasped audibly as she took in the many bruises dotting the filly’s coat, and the very prominent pair of black eyes. “What happened to you? You have to look your best for tonight Jennifer! Honestly fillies these days!” The filly laughed a little. “Training with Luna got a little more…intense than usual. I nailed her! On the flank! Twice!” To her credit Rarity did a remarkable job holding in her laughter at the announcement. “And she ‘nailed’ you back? On your everything? Twice?” Jen huffed. “Maybe. She has invisible swords! How is THAT fair?” “Mmm it does sound a trifle one sided I’ll admit. Come along, you can tell me all about it on the way to your suite in the castle.” With her typical easy-going shrug Jen set into an easy trot alongside the older unicorn. Regaling Rarity with the story of the (despite her numerous wounds) best training session she’d entered into with the princess so far. The conversation turned to her newest passion, reading up on the Order of Harmony. “Hm an order of knights who defeated a horde of rampaging dragons by singing to them? That certainly is a fanciful tale dear.” “I don’t think it’s made up…the book was written by Starswhirl after all. He’s pretty renowned right?” “True enough. I suppose it’s entirely possible. Our little Fluttershy chased off a full grown dragon with a few stern words after all.” None of the guards gave either pony a second glance as they passed through the castle gates. Jennifer leading the way to her suite and getting the door. “Now! Let’s see about getting you cleaned up. It’s a big night after all.” Jen let her saddle bags flop onto the floor by the bed. “Is it really that big a deal? It’s just a dinner party right?” “Tut tut. A dinner party with the cream of the Canterlotian crop darling. You want to make a good impression don’t you?” Knowing there was no point in arguing with the stubborn mare Jen allowed herself to be drug before the as of yet untouched vanity in her room. “I’ve already made a pretty strong impression on a lot of the noble ponies. I don’t think ‘good’ is the word to use though.” “Ah yes you have been making a name for yourself haven’t you Jubilant Surprise? Still there’s always a second chance hm?” Rarity was busy applying a veritable pound of makeup in an effort to conceal the bruises across Jen’s muzzle. “And not to worry about your dress, I resized the one from the festival for you; it should fit like a dream.” “Oh, well cool. You brought it with you?” “Well of course. I knew you likely wouldn’t pack any formal wear. Your fashion tastes run more along Rainbow Dash and Applejack’s lines after all.” “Ehe…true.” The filly frowned suddenly. “How’d you know I’d be going to the party?” “Eh? Oh…well…Fancy Pants told me of course.” “Oh, yeah that makes sense.” Jen fussed only a little as Rarity straightened her tail and main. It took more than a little effort on the unicorns’ part to get all the tangles from the young pegasi’s hair but she pressed on resolutely. She lifted her head compliantly as Rarity fastened the dress about her neck and let its length fall across her back and flanks. “There, if I didn’t know better I’d say I was looking at a proper young lady.” Sticking her tongue out Jen blew a most spectacular raspberry. “Aaaand there the image goes. Come along we’ve a carriage to catch.” Rarity had changed into what Jen figured must equate to a ‘slinky black number’ among pony folk. The dress was cut to expose some of her flank, and rode low on her chest. “Hoping to seduce poor Fancy tonight?” Rarity merely scoffed lightly. “A lady does not ‘seduce’ her intended beau.” She grinned playfully as the pair made their way from the castle. “Particularly when he’s already wrapped around her hoof.” Jen gave a scandalous gasp and nudged the mare. “Why Miss Rarity I do declare.” A brawny earth pony helped the ladies into their carriage and they were soon trundling along toward Fancy Pants’ stately Canterlot manor. “This is exciting, I haven’t seen Fancy’s place yet.” “Neither have I. He’s been to Ponyville for a few visits, and we meet up at the café here in Canterlot but I haven’t been to his home yet.” Rarity was fidgeting gently. “Has he ever…asked about me?” “As a matter of fact we talked about you yesterday. I don’t know if it’d be fair to Fancy to tell you what we talked about…” Rarity was suddenly nose to nose with the filly seated across from her. “You must tell me what he said! You must! YOU MUST!” “Ok ok! Calm down!” Ruffling her wings a few times the filly settled once more. “If you MUST know, he wanted tips. On how to WOO you.” “And?!” “And…” The coach was rolling to a stop. “You’ll just have to wait and see!” Jen raced from the carriage before Rarity could snag her with her magic, ignoring the fashionista’s wails. The manor did not disappoint. While it was no Canterlot Castle it was at least three times the size of any building in Ponyville. A cobblestone path lead up to the manor proper, flowers and fancifully styled shrubbery lined the path the entire way. Echo was milling about outside the main doors. Dressed to the nine’s in her finest dress uniform. It made her look…pretty impressive. Her normally wild and untamed mane was slicked back and shimmered like her mother’s in the dimming sunlight. The navy blue suit coat bore the insignia of the night guard proudly on one side, while a trio of medals decorated the other. The night pony cadet smiled at Jen approached. “How do I look?” Jen couldn’t resist. “Very handsome sir. Have you seen Cadet Echo? She’s supposed to be my escort this evening.” “I can’t say that I have miss…?” Dipping into a courtly bow Jen affected her best snooty Canterlot accent. “Pie good sir. Jennifer Allen Pie.” “Miss Pie. It seems your escort has stood you up. Perhaps you’d allow me the pleasure…?” Echo did a pretty good Canterlot noble herself. “It would be MY pleasure.” “Oh no it’s most certainly mine.” “Oh but I insist it’s my pleasure…” “Oh will you two knock it off!” Rarity had caught up by now and look less than amused by their antics. “Get inside before somepony sees you making mules of yourselves out here.” Both fillies hastily dashed inside, missing the amused smile forming on Rarity’s face. Jen hesitated once inside however. “It’s pretty dark. Where is everypony?” Her date for the evening shrugged. “Dunno. Maybe there’s like a ball room or something? Shouldn’t there be a ton of butlers…butling around here?” Rarity scoffed. “Honestly you two just follow me.” The young pair fell into step behind their guide. For a pony who’d never been here before Rarity was certainly walking with confidence through the halls of the estate. Finally she stopped before a large pair of double doors. “Here we are. Best manners now girls, this isn’t some Ponyville ho down.” With a flourish she threw open the doors to the ball room. “SURPRISE!” Jen nearly fell over from the shock. A huge banner hung from one end of the ballroom to the other with the words “Happy Birthday Jenny” stretched across it. Twilight and Spike, Applejack and Big Mac, Dash and Fluttershy were all there. Lyra was setting up on stage Bon-bon happily seated beside her. Cheerilee was smiling behind four little fillies, Sweetie Belle, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Dinky Doo, their teacher keeping a close eye on the precocious trio. Rarity trotted passed the stunned filly with a smug smile, taking her place at an equally happy looking Fancy Pants’ side. And of course there was Pinkie Pie, who wasted no time in tackling Jen to the ground. “Did we getcha? Did we?!” The filly squirmed free of Pinkie Pie and nodded dumbly. “Uh…yup. You got me. Is it REALLY my birthday?” The assembled crowd was laughing. “Yup! It REALLY is. I can’t believe you REALLY forgot! But I mentioned it was coming up to Twilight and she said you hadn’t said a word to anypony and I figured you’d been SO busy lately you completely forgot! Which you did! So then I started talking to everypony else and Rarity said you were really good friends with Fancy Pants and maybe we should invite all your other pony friends! Then Fancy Pants INSISTED we have the party here! That’s why I’ve been gone so much this week I was here setting up! And boy was it worth it.” Pinkie sucked in a deep breath to presumably resume her tirade when Jen tugged her close for a tight hug. “Thanks Pinkie. This is really nice.” Some of the manic energy left the earth pony as she returned the filly’s embrace warmly. “Of course Jenny-bean. You deserve it. Sixteen is a special birthday for anypony.” The pair parted and Jen walked into the party proper with a snickering Echo at her side. “YOU knew about this?” “Oh yeah. Pinkie Pie hunted me down in the crystal caverns. Scared my mom outta her mind. We still dunno how she got up to the door.” Jen shrugged. “That’s Pinkie Pie.” Everypony was dressed in their best. Rarity was worried her little ruse would upset Jen if she were the only pony there in formal attire. Still it didn’t put a damper on the fun. Games were played and gifts were opened. Luna arrived late in the evening and the festivities showed no sign of slowing. Everypony had to clear the dance floor once Luna joined Twilight Sparkle in seemingly spasmodic flailing about but as the hour grew later Lyra struck up a slow song. Using her magic to continue the lyre’s music she took to the dance floor with Bon-bon. Fancy paired with Rarity of course and a blushing Echo made her way to Jen’s side. “So d’you like…wanna dance?” Jennifer’s blush matched the other filly’s. “S-sure…if you wanna I mean.” The pair took to the dance floor cheeks burning hotly but both smiling warmly with eyes only for the other. They mimicked the older ponies on the floor, standing close together, heads resting over the others neck as they slowly swayed across the dance floor. Cheerilee had a seat next to the smiling Pinkie. “They make a cute couple.” “Mmhm. I’m glad she found a special somepony so fast. She’s such a sweet filly. She deserves all the happiness she can squeeze into her life. I remember when she was the shy little girl back on her world. Now look at her. Fighting monsters, dating, running a successful business. She’s pretty much all grown up.” Pinkie couldn’t hide a soft sigh. “True. But you shouldn’t feel sad Pinkie Pie. The best part of taking care of a foal is when you see them stand on their own, ready to go out into the world.” “Oh I know. It just makes me think of the time I COULD have had with her. I knew she wasn’t happy at home, I should have made Princess Celestia understand she belonged here with me.” Unseen by either mare Princess Luna sat in the shadows behind the pair listening intently. A flicker of pain crossed her features at the mention of her sister. They’d had so short a time together before they were separated again. At least this time it would be for a year, two at the most rather than an entire millennia. Her melancholy vanished when she looked to the dance floor and found the young fillies dancing happily, if a touch clumsily. The song ended and the couples got refreshments or moved off to chat quietly together. The party was winding down it seemed. Luna approached Jen and Echo. “Cadet I wonder if I could borrow your date for the evening? I promise to return her promptly.” Echo made a show of having to think about the request. “I suppose. Just don’t have her gone too long.” Jen followed Luna curiously as the alicorn lead the filly from the ballroom and onto the patio outside overlooking the gardens. “I am told that sixteen is something of a milestone in a young girl’s life Jennifer.” “Oh. Yeah I guess it is. Heh if I were at home dad would probably have a car for me.” She laughed lightly. “Well obviously that would be a difficult gift to provide. I suppose I could fetch one from your world if you like, but I do not think you will get much use of it here.” Jen laughed again. “No of course not. Who needs to drive when you can fly?” She spread her wings for emphasis. “Indeed. Still this is a special time in your life and I felt compelled to provide a special gift.” Luna’s horn glowed brightly as a pure pink, perfectly round piece of rose quartz gem flicked into existence to hang before the pair. It shimmered with a warm rosy light and Jennifer felt an immediate connection to the stone. “What…what is it?” “The missing piece of Mercy. Each of the Arms of Harmony is a set. The weapon and the armor. This is your armor. The armor of a knight of harmony Jennifer.” The young pegasus delicately released the catch at her throat allowing the dress to slide to the floor of the patio. She shifted back to her human state and reached for the gem, only to have Luna lift it from her reach. She turned a questioning stare to the princess. “It is my pleasure to give this to you Jennifer, but you must know precisely what you are accepting. The sword you wear proudly has chosen you as its bearer, it has determined you to be worthy of the title of Knight. If you accept this, you accept the burden that comes with knighthood. The lives of your fellow Equestrians must hold greater value to you than your own. You must be prepared to give up your life in defense of theirs. You must carry yourself in a manner befitting a Knight of Harmony. Accepting this Jennifer, you are saying you are ready to leave your childhood behind fully, and step into the realm of adulthood.” Jen was staring quietly at the gem hovering just a few feet in front of her nose over the balcony. “Furthermore, I would expect you to no more live a being split between two worlds. The Knights of Harmony were a powerful force for good in Equestria. They were a symbol of what it MEANS to be equestrian. I cannot force you to choose this, but I believe you should adopt your chosen equestrian name as your own. Fully embrace the life you have chosen to live. This is a good deal for you to take in and I do not expect you to make your decision immediately.” Jennifer remained quiet for a bit longer. “I could still send letters?” “Of course. I would not ask you to completely ignore your distant kin, but your focus; your heart would have to be entirely devoted to Equestria. As mine is, as Celestia’s and Cadence. As everypony who has accepted the burden of the title you seek to claim.” Luna was not in the least surprised as Jennifer squared her shoulders and unhesitatingly reached out to claim the gem. An unseen force guided her hand to place the gem against the leather sheathe holding the shield to her arm. It melded smoothly with the brown leather as the material hardened and took on a metallic sheen to match the shield itself. The sleeve spread to cover her hand in a gleaming gauntlet, soon the metal had spread over her shoulder and across her back than down her other arm. The armor formed tough but flexible plates down her chest and back. The greaves and boots settled around her legs and feet comfortably. Finally a gleaming helm took shape around her head concealing her hair. Jennifer stood fully covered in her new armor. From head to toe she was protected by gleaming plates of pale pink metal tempered with gold filigree. Despite the fanciful colors it was powerfully enchanted and would protect her from threats both magical and mundane. She stood a little straighter than before too. Luna smiled as the girl looked far more a woman suddenly. “How does it feel?” “…surprisingly comfortable given I have nothing between my skin and a bunch of metal. I guess it’s part of the magic.” Her wings flexed from the slits at her back. “Is it supposed to be uh…human shaped?” “Yes. It is enchanted to fit the wearer no matter their shape. Were you to change forms while wearing your armor it would change with you.” Jen raised her hands flexing them and getting a feel for the armor. “It’s pink isn’t it?” “It is.” She only sighed softly. “Still pretty cool. Can I see yours?” Luna raised a brow and lifted a forehoof to the large gem set into the torc she always wore. Pressing it gently her own body was encompassed in silvery blue light. When it cleared she was armored much the same as Jennifer, though the armor was a deep navy blue lined in silver. “…and mine’s pink.” I much enjoy pink. Twas my favorite color when I lived. It was no small feat to have Starswhirl alter the enchantment of my arms and armor to match it. So this is YOUR fault Heart? You look lovely. Like a true knight Jennifer. Luna retracted her armor. “I suggest you do the same, I do not battle armor is proper attire for a birthday party.” Sheepishly the girl mirrored Luna’s movements, touching the gem at the sheathe on her arm and retracting her own armor. “Thank you Luna. This is…a wonderful gift.” The young woman gave the princess a tight hug, which she returned. “No less than you deserve Jubilant. I expect you to live up to the expectations that armor demands.” She was unusually serious as she nodded. “I will Princess Luna. I promise.” “Wonderful. Now I believe we should return to the party. Echo is probably growing agitated.” Resuming her full pegasus shape Jen wormed back into her dress. The pair made their way back to the party. Many of the guests looked ready to drop over from exhaustion and seemed much relieved at the guest of honors return so they could properly bid her good night and give their well wishes. Most were staying in rooms provided by Fancy Pants at the manor and drifted off to bed. Echo and Jennifer were soon alone on the balcony as a dutiful group of servants worked to clean the ball room. Jen’s impressive pile of gifts were collected with care and already on their way to her suite at the castle. “So I bet you’re wondering what I gotcha.” Jen laughed. “I figured night pony’s didn’t do gifts or something on birthdays.” Giving her fillyfriend a swat to the flanks with her tail Echo grinned. “Of course we do.” The night pony drew a small box from the pocket of one jacket. Jen worked it open with some difficulty, smiling at the heart shaped crystal inside. “Wow it’s really pretty Echo, thanks.” Echo shuffled nervously. “It’s not just a pretty rock Jennifer. It’s a heart stone. My kind give them to those important to us. They always come in pairs.” She tugged at a delicate silver chain tucked under her collar letting the matching stone fall loose. “As long as our feelings remain true for one another we can always tell when we’re happy and healthy.” “O-oh…wow Echo that’s…amazing. Thank you.” With a good deal more reverence Jen worked the chain over her neck letting the heart stone fall against her chest next to the other gem. She frowned a little seeing them next to each other. IT somehow felt wrong even if the chaotic gem was a gift from a friend. She gently flicked it from around her neck and looped the chain of Discord’s gem around the hilt of her sword. The young pair settled down on the balcony resting against the other tightly. They didn’t feel a need to move until well passed the sun had made itself known.