//------------------------------// // Chapter 8: Sparring Match Up! // Story: Equis Saga: Adventures and New Life in Equestria // by JeromyTG2 //------------------------------// When I arrived behind the castle grounds, I didn't expect Spearhead to show me the barracks to be a single small building behind the castle. Yet, they also have an armory next to it, which is more bigger. I thought they had more soldiers just the look of it, kinda disappointing. I also caught a glimpse of their training ground, that's not too close from the gardens. But there are a fair amount of guards training out in the field, possibly over 40 at least. How do they all fit in such a small building? Unless it's underground, maybe… Lieutenant Spearhead called every men… er… stallion, for a meeting at their quarters, for me to say hello. Watching them walk… or trot… whatever… in an orderly fashion, I see about half of the guards already inside, I‘m surprised that how that little building has not bloated already. My jaw dropped just witnessing this. “How… in the hell… wh-WHAT!? Can you explain what I just witnessed?” I asked Spearhead, dumbfounded. “*chuckle* Why not see it yourself?” he said leading me to the barracks. I became hesitant before walking in, thinking they pack themselves in like clowns in a bug, but shake it off wanting to know the truth how it's possible. As we stepped in, all the guards are inside lined up in both side of the room, standing in front of their bunks stand straight and noble. They look serious and determined looking, but they sure do take this job seriously, and I don't blame them. But wait… HOW LONG AND HOW BIG IS THIS BUILDING!? The roof is higher and the building is long and wide as the throne room! Even though the look of the building outside is small, but the inside is enormous! It's pretty amazing what magic can do, and I did see this in a movie once. I hope pockets work the same too. “Alright men!” shouted Spearhead, “The Ambassador is here to have a look in our quarters and how we run this place. Give him warm welcome, and show him what we’ve got!” “Yes, Sir!” they shout in unison as I stepped up. “If any of you have any curious questions about me or other things, don't bother to ask. I will answer to any questions you ask.” (Anything else? Oh yeah!) “And call me, Sir, when I'm around, alright!?” “Sir!” they all shout again. (I feel like an army general. Cool!) “Alright men! Resume to your duties! Double time!” ordered Spearhead. (Wait… Did he say ‘Men’?) “Yes Sir!” they shouted as they return to whatever they are doing. I then began to look around the barracks, and see how every guard prepping themselves or retire for the day. Some of them chat to one another about their daily routine and so on, and from an earshot, I can also hear some of them talking about me as they see me. Some came up and asked me some questions, and I answered honestly as much as I can, but some of their questions are weird and complicated, like where I’m from or how do my hands effect in combat. I also asked them, why were they called ‘men’ instead of ‘colts’. They say it’s a stereotype, that's why. Then, they asked about my world that had wars there. They sure don't like my answer about that one, but they understand what happened in the end. This place really has close similarities in my world, kinda strange in my opinion, both modern and mostly medieval mashup is new to me. After my time in the barracks, I head to their armory. I was really interested what they have there, and I wanted to see what equipment they use. I asked one of the guards about how they build their armor and weapons, and he was kind enough to explain how and what they're made or use of. It's amazing how their armor and weapons are forged by hoof, or magic for special purposes. This gives me an idea if I want to craft something in the future. I walked out to the fields to see how the guards run some drills. Apparently, their training is quite similar how we do back in my world, a long time ago, besides holding weapons with magic, and apparently they somehow can hold them with their hoofs. I see a rack of training gear, filled with different kinds of weapons, that are only meant for training. Spears and shields are all lined up across, though I still can't point out how they can grip them on hoof, I'll ask one day. Then, I saw one weapon that caught my eye, it is a wooden sword that’s about as long as my arm, possibly a one-handed, and it is just sitting at the side of the rack alone. Come to think of it, I don't see a lot of guards using weapons like axes, or a mace. I guess spears are their main weapon. I picked it up for my interest and it appears to be light as a feather due to my enhanced strength. Once I gave it test and a twirl, a voice spoke from behind giving me a surprise. “I see you have an interest to our equipment. ” I turn to see a white unicorn with two tone blue colored mane sticking out under his purple and gold helmet, and clad in armor with the same palette like his helmet. “That training weapon you have there has not been used ever since it's made. It is used for stallions who can swiftly enter to battle or get close and personal, but none of them had balanced interest. And I take it you know how to use it?” (He seems nice) “Yeah. Sorta. I used to play with a toy sword when I was young, and I practice how to use them just by watching movies or video games... I wouldn't call it training.” “Really? So, you're self taught?” “You could… say that.” (What? I did!) “That's nice. Anyway, my name is Shining Armor, I am the captain of the Royal Guards.” he said while taking off his helmet by hoof. “Jyro, the Human.” I said as we both shake hand and hoof. “So, you're the new Ambassador everypony’s been talking about, right? It's pretty odd to have our very first that isn't from this world.” “Heh. Really? I didn't know.” “Don't we all. So, what brings you out here?” “I just came here to see how you guards spend time while on and off duty. Also, seeing your equipment and all.” “Well, feel free to look around, if you need anything, don't bother asking any of the guards.” I then have the craziest idea. “Actually, there is one thing I would like to ask for you.” “What is it?” “Do you mind sparring with me?” Shining Armor’s eyes widened, surprised to hear this from me. Even from earshot, all the guards have stopped. “I'm… not sure if I heard that right.” “I want you, to spar with me.” “I… don't know if it’s okay tha-” I interrupt him by pointing him with the wooden sword close to his muzzle. “What's the matter? Chicken?” I said grinning. “Um. No. It's just,... so sudden, and can I ask why?” “I feel I need a little exercise, and I'm not in the mood of being lazy right now. Besides, you're a captain, right? You must be pretty experienced out of all guards, I want to know what it's like to go against you ponies, and I want you, to be the first to spar with me.” he gave some thought thinking ‘should I or not’, “Also,...” he looked at me, “you can get experience on going up against a being like me. Who knows? Maybe one day I might turn against you beyond my will.” I only say this just to be cautious, and who knows? Maybe something else in this world can make me turn. “So? Do you accept my challenge?” “... Sure. Challenge accepted.” he then turn to call out the guards, but suddenly, all guards that were already here. I guess they overheard us while we're chatting, “... LISTEN UP! For today, you will be dismissed. However, we will be having a special sparring match here on the fields.” murmurs of guards began, wondering who will go 1 on 1, “The match will be me,... against… the new Ambassador.” the guards are all shocked and most are excited to see me, an unknown being to them, against their beloved captain. “We will begin immediately at the fields.” after the announcement, everyone started gathering around the field that has round area surrounded by wooden ranch fences. It looks like they are waiting to watch a rodeo show instead a showdown. How ironic is that? (Cause they are PONIES!) “I guess everyone is excited about this.” I said amazed. “Yeah. Well Ambassador, I think it's ti-” I interrupt him again with the wooden sword, “I am tired of someone not calling me by my real name. Between you and me, call me, Jyro, capiche?” “Um… yes?” “Good. Now, where do we start.” I said with a smile. As we head to the fields, the rest of the guards gathered around and start seeing us entering the arena. With this much crowd, I am completely nervous, and kinda excited. I don’t know if I’m physically prepare for this, I have done some cardio back in my world, but I haven't done any athletic exercises some time ago, hopefully I still have my old skills, and I fought a pack of Timber-wolves by myself. Besides, I want to test out my abilities and see how I do on the field. A guard brought both a training spear and a wooden shield for Shining Armor, guessing that's one of his main arsenal, and I only have one wooden sword. (Wait. Something’s missing.) “... Shoot! I don't have a helmet.” I panicked. “Don't worry, I won't aim for your head. At least.” said Shining Armor. Crap! Now I'm worried. What do I do when I don't have any protection? (NOT WHAT I HAD IN MIND!) I mean I have only one sword, sure I have strength and durability... *Facepalm* (DUH!) “You know what? Never mind! Let's just get on with it.” I ready my stance as Shining Armor prepares as well, then Lieutenant Spearhead steps in between us to be our referee. “Are you both ready?” he calls as we both nod. “Ready……… Begin!” Spearhead quickly back off as we clashed each other. I was surprised how Shining Armor was able to hold his ground against my strength, I better keep my head in the game. After that, we both flung away in a good distance and began to stare each other. Both of us didn't move for a while. This turned out to be a small stare off before we attack. We studied each other, finding an opening, or a weakness. I see Shining Armor’s guard is quite similar how humans use, except he holds them with his magic. Suddenly, Shining Armor came charging towards me, making me break my analysis. Acting quickly, I leaped over him, high enough to evade him. I completely forgot how high I jump, but I could use it as an advantage. In return I quickly charge at him, and I realized something. (CRAP! I FORGOT ABOUT MY RUN SPEED! AGAIN!) “WOAHHH!” *BLAM!* I tumbled at great speed and stopped by a wide wooden post on impact. (Seriously! Who put that there!) “I'm a friggin tree hugger… DAMMIT!” I grunted silently and hit my head on the pole, until I hear galloping behind me and see Shining Armor charging at me again, “WOW!” quickly, I use the post to kick away right when he struck. Now that I am familiar with my speed, I charged at him once again and did a fast baseball slide to trip him. To my surprise, he was quick enough to evade, then got his chance to attack me with a flurry of thrusts. Out of luck, I evaded and parry every thrust he pulled. It didn't last that long, so I jumped back far enough to avoid his attacks, and then wait for another strike. I thought of using my magic would be an advantage to pick him off, or use my bubble shield in defense, but I decide not to, it would’ve been too easy, plus I’m inexperienced. So, I’ll be doing this the old fashion way, just to hone my physical skills. In the fight, I thought of one technique that might end this match and maybe he would yield. We began to walk slowly in a circles, eyeing each other, and who will strike first. I then wait for Shining Armor to charge me again. I didn't think it would work, but I pretended that I lost my balance while walking, luckily he came charging, as I waited for right time and….. *SLASH~SMASH!* I swiftly slashed his spear way and smashed his shield with a powerful back-fist, all in quick success. I then quickly point my wooden sword at his shocked face with a grin on mine. It felt good doing that, but ‘JEEZ LOUISE!’ that was intense! (Is this what power feels like?) “I slashed your weapon, smashed your shield, and now, you are defenseless with a sword to your face. Do you yield? Or, do you want to end up like that shield there.” he looked at his shattered shield and cringed. “...*sigh* You are full of surprises aren't you? I yield.” he said smiling, accepting defeat, as the spectating guards cheered from our performance, “I was both surprised and unprepared from your skills. I could have used more of my magic if I have to, but I decided it wouldn't be fair. And, I was completely caught off guard of how you shattered that shield in one punch.” “Heh. I guess I am full of surprises, but I'm still learning though. I just act and then it happened, I didn't know my own strength to be honest.” I thought I should not tell him yet about my abilities yet or why I'm here. “Really? Well, I guess we can learn from each other, like how I can find a way to defeat a human like you and you can learn more combat training in the process.” “Whoa there Hotshot. What got you so interested into finding a way to beat me?” “In case we get a rematch. Plus, the name is Shining Armor. Hotshot is over there.” I looked where he pointed and apparently, the unicorn mare is actually named Hotshot. “Oh.” looked each other, and laughed. “Excuse me, Captain?” said Spearhead cutting in. “Yes, Lieutenant?” “It was an amazing match between you and,… Sir Jyro, Sir.” (Sir Jyro? I guess that's alright) “But I must inform you, Sir Jyro, that you have been requested to attend the dining hall.” “Dinner already?” I looked up the sky and see it is about to be dusk, “Alright. Well, I really did enjoy sparring with you, Shining Armor. I hope we'll see each other and do this again sometime.” I said shaking his hoof. “Same here, Jyro. Hope we can meet again. Next time we have another match, I won't yield this time.” he said giving a determined smile. “Heh. We'll see about that. See ya.” I waved and head back in the castle. Finally! I made a friend who is in Camelot… I mean Canter-lot. And, not someone calling me, Ambassador like the other guards. And maybe Spearhead could be my other friend… I dunno. On my way, I noticed that my clothes were covered in dirt, mostly on my shorts. Ugh! How stupid of me for ruining these clothes made from an sweet and generous pony! I tried to dust off as much as I can, and hopefully they don't notice. And I hope I know my way around the castle, so I don't get lost. While I was at the field, I had a feeling that the guards weren't the only spectators watching me. Royal Lounge (Few minutes ago): *Luna's POV* After lecturing the human, I accompanied with my sister in our royal lounge, watching the guards and surveying both Jyro and the Captain. Seeing that they were about to duel, I was about to rush in and stop this from harming each other, until my sister stops me from interfering. I became worried for Jyro, not wearing any protective equipment. What in the blue hell you readers LAUGHING AT, YOU SICK FREAKS!? THAT'S THE SECOND TIME AND IT BETTER NOT BE A THIRD! THAT'S RIGHT! I'M TALKIN' TO YOU! PERVS! Go to 0:40 “Tia, are you certain that he will be alright without any protective equipment?” I asked weary. “No Luna, I want to see if he is capable of protecting himself, and what he can do.” said Tia, now giving me a teasing smile, “Do you suddenly care for him, Lulu?” “*!* W-Why do you bring that up, sister?” I flushed. “Don't deny it Luna. I know you had an eye on him since this morning. The way you look at him up close and how you like his eyes.” “Please, Tia! I'm sure YOU had eyes on him as well. How you like his company, his determination, his charms, his smile, his mane…” oh dear… *blushing* “See? *Chuckle* You can't fool me from what I know.” she said playfully. “... O-oh look! They are starting!” I said trying to change the subject. The match between, Jyro and Shining Armor, ended surprisingly quick. Jyro claimed the victor from an impressive performance, though he did ran into a pole for some reason and was able to evade Shining Armor’s barrage of attacks. I couldn't imagine how anypony can defeat the Captain easily, besides him. “Impressive! That counter is so fast and powerful, not even the shield would stand a chance.” said Tia in amazement. “He may be fast and strong, but I also see he is more than our hero.” “Why is that Tia?” I asked. “Have you seen him land a hit or a finishing blow? Nor did he use his magic which would give him an advantage?” I began to see what my sister is saying, “He does not want to harm anypony for any reason, even in sparring matches. He is well aware of his own strength and how to use it, not to harm but to intimidate sort-of way. Besides, him being carefully around friends or with somepony else shows how... humble he is to others.” “... I see.” (Now I see why he has not crushed Tia with his immense strength this morning or using his magic to overpower the captain. He is holding back his strength to not harm others. What will his power look like when he faces a real threat?) “Well, it was fun watching them. Guard!” she called the guard. “Yes, Princess?” “Inform the Ambassador to attend the dining hall for dinner.” “Right away Princess.” he saluted and leave. “Now then, shall we head to the dining hall as well, Lulu?” “*sigh* You won't ever stop calling me that will you?” “That is because I love you, Lulu. I really missed you, and I am happy to have my dear sister return home.” my sister gave me a warm embrace. “I love you too, Tia. And, I too missed you as well.” I embraced in return. “Now, let us head to the dining hall.” she said as we are on our way.