//------------------------------// // Return to Canterlot // Story: Trapped in the Mirror of Worlds // by Silver_Wing //------------------------------// Sky Flare had been reluctant to return to Canterlot so soon. While she did want to see her parents again, the draw of whatever new wonder that laid just beyond the horizon called to her like a magnet. There really was no end to her drive to see more. Eventually however, I did manage to convince her to come back with me, though I had to promise that we’d return to our adventures afterwards. We made a beeline for Canterlot by air, only stopping when we needed to eat or sleep. I was driven by a burning desire to return to something that I knew, something familiar that I wouldn’t feel lost and helpless within. If the Princesses agreed to my idea, then I’d have a little slice of my world here to call my own. Sky Flare couldn’t understand why the idea of a Guild was so important to me, and though I tried to explain it to her as best I could, there was just no way she’d get it, not without me telling her where I was really from. Eventually she just chalked it up to being one of my numerous quirks and tolerated my newfound ‘obsession’ as she called it. It took us nearly a week of steady travel to reach Canterlot and I practically cried out with joy when I saw the towers of the palace piercing the heavens ahead. It was midday by the time we arrived, the sun was high, and there wasn’t a cloud to be seen. “Finally!” I said aloud, “I didn’t realize we’d gotten so far from this place.” “Why do you think I didn’t wanna come back so soon?” Sky Flare sighed at me, “We could have made it to the Crystal Empire faster than it took us to get here…” I slowed to a hover high above the city and looked to Sky Flare eagerly. “Oh, don’t worry,” I said, “We’ll go check that place out soon enough. For now, you go check in on your parents while I go see if the Princesses are busy or not.” Sky Flare shook her head at me and veered off towards the residential district of Canterlot. “And Sky!” I called after her, “If Breezy’s asleep, kick his door open for me and tell him that he’s late for a class at the academy!” I caught her chuckle drift back to me on the winds, then I let gravity pull me down to the earth far below. I landed at the palace entrance and nodded my head politely to the guards keeping watch. They looked surprised to see me, but I was too focused on my mission to talk with them. I trotted hurriedly to my room and found it to be exactly as I had left it a few months ago. Tossing my saddlebags onto the bed, I headed out in search of Celestia. I knew Luna would be sleeping at this hour, so I didn’t want to wake her if I could help it. I wandered the halls for a while until I came across another set of Guards and called to them. “Excuse me,” I said, “Do you know where Princess Celestia might be?” The Guards glanced over at me and the nearest one nodded. “I believe she is in the gardens at this time,” He said, “Do you require an escort?” “Nah, I know the way,” I replied, “Thank you very much for the help.” I nodded my head in thanks and trotted on. I’d been stuck in this palace for so long when I first got here, there weren’t too many places I couldn’t get to on my own anymore, even after having been away for a few months. I made my way back outside and flew around the palace to the gardens. It took a moment, but I soon spotted Princess Celestia sitting amongst some flowers as she soaked in the midday sun. I landed nearby and bowed politely. “Silver Wing?” she said, sounding a little surprised, “I had not expected to see you again so soon. Have you seen your fill of Equestria already?” I chuckled and shook my head. “Not even close,” I said, “But I do have something important that I’d like to discuss with you, when you have time.” “How interesting,” she mused, “I trust you are planning to spend the night in the palace tonight?” I nodded. “If that’s still alright, yes.” “Of course,” she said, “You will always be welcome here.” She rose to her feet smoothly and smiled down at me. “Then let us meet for dinner tonight as we used to. I am certain my sister would be quite interested in what you have seen of our lands during your journey. We can hear what matters you wish to discuss after that.” While my eagerness cringed at the thought of waiting until dinner to talk about my idea, I agreed quickly. “That’d be fine,” I said, “I’d like to hear Luna’s thoughts on my idea as well.” Celestia eyed me curiously for a moment, then started towards the palace. “If you’ll excuse me, Silver Wing,” she said as she nodded her head politely, “I have matters I must attend to now. I will send a guard to your room when dinner is to begin.” I nodded my understanding and left her to her business. I had several hours yet till dinner was supposed to happen, so I wasn’t sure what to do in the meantime. I could go check in with Sky Flare, but if I was in her shoes, I’d probably be happier catching up with my parents alone. With a sigh, I flopped down on the grass and just sat there for a while, thinking about whatever came to mind as I impatiently passed the time. It felt like it took forever for a guard to finally come get me for dinner, but eventually one came to summon me. I was at the door before he had even placed his hoof back on the ground after knocking. “The Princesses request your presence for their evening meal, Silver Wing,” the guard said, “Will you be able to attend?” “Definitely,” I smirked, “And before you offer, I don’t need an escort. I know the way.” I chuckled at him and caught a smile cross his lips. “As you wish.” he said. He bowed his head politely and headed off down the hall at a leisurely stroll. I made my way to the dining hall and found my heart starting to race as the doors and their guards came into view before me. Up until this point, I had been going over all the things I could say or offer to make my idea seem worthwhile. How it would help ponies all over Equestria while also giving me something to do besides sit around waiting for Dawn to get me home. It was a selfish endeavor at its core though. I wanted this for me more than any other reason. I wanted to be part of something akin to what I was used to again, something familiar, something that felt like home. I really didn’t want to portray it as something that was more for myself than others, but now that I was at the threshold of my meeting with the Princesses, the whole idea seemed blatantly so. I froze before the doors and felt my stomach tense as I grew deeply embarrassed by the thought of trying to explain this now. My mouth started to go dry and I glanced over my shoulder back the way I had come. I had been so focused on the idea of making something like I was used to, I didn’t really think how this would sound to a ruler of a country. Yes, it had the potential to help the ponies of Equestria, but it was clear by all the things I had been planning to say that this was just a desperate attempt to make myself feel more at home here. I dropped my head and groaned out a heavy sigh. “Are you alright?” one of the nearby guards asked. “O-oh, yeah,” I said quickly, “Just realizing how stupid I am is all.” The guard tilted his head a little and eyed me quizzically. “Never mind,” I said, “I’m fine.” The guard exchanged glances with his fellow, then together, they opened the doors for me to proceed further. My body tensed anew as the doors swung open, revealing Princess Celestia and Luna to be already seated at the table ahead. My feet felt like they were made of lead, but I forced them to carry me to my usual spot at the table. “Greetings, Silver Wing,” Princess Luna said as I took my seat, “You look well.” “Thank you.” I said quickly, nodding out of nervous reflex at the complement. “Is something troubling you, Silver Wing?” Celestia said, “You seem to have lost the abundance of energy you had earlier today.” “I’m fine,” I said, forcing a smile onto my face, “Just feeling a little stupid is all.” “And why is that?” Celestia asked, “Do you no longer wish to discuss the matter you attempted to pose in the gardens?” I laughed nervously, then let out a deep sigh. “My stomach doesn’t want me to,” I admitted, “But I’m already here, and it would be rude to waste both of your time. So, I’m good to go whenever you two are.” “Let us eat first,” Celestia smiled, “Some food will no doubt ease your nerves.” I fought not to groan at her comment, and simply nodded. Now that I was having cold feet, time just flew by. Dinner was over in a flash, and before I knew it, the table had been cleared and the Princesses were both watching me curiously. “Now then,” Celestia mused motherly, “What is it that you wished to discuss with us, Silver Wing?” I tensed bodily at her question and for a moment didn’t respond. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to reply to her, it was that I couldn’t. My mouth wouldn’t work, and I couldn’t even bring myself to look up at her for nearly ten seconds. Through sheer effort of will, I took a deep breath and tried my best to explain my idea. All the things I had wanted to say, or thought I should say earlier were lost to my memory and I simply said what came to the forefront of my mind and hoped for the best. “I’ve only been gone a few months now, and most of that was spent in Ponyville,” I started, “But I have come to realize that your world and mine aren’t quite as different as I first thought. When I first came here, I thought this place was perfect. You had magic, floating cities, most everyone was friendly and seemed the type that would give you the shirts off their backs if you asked. But…” I fell silent as I tried to figure out how to say what I had found to be commonplace the further I got from Canterlot, but I found my tongue to be fighting me. “But?” Celestia pressed. “But, that’s not what I found to be the case everywhere,” I started again, though more slowly, “I didn’t think it was possible at first, but I ran into some of those bandits you had mentioned, and while they ran off pretty quickly, it opened my eyes. I tried to get the local law enforcement to track them down, but they refused. And it wasn’t just that one town either, pretty much everywhere had the mentality of ‘If it’s not in or near us, we don’t want any part of it.’ Your people are very community driven. They’ll help each other to the best of their abilities and without qualm usually, but they won’t lift a hoof to help those that prefer to be more on their own. Even farmers tend to be ignored when the local wildlife poses a problem.” Celestia and Luna shared a soft sigh, then Celestia spoke solemnly. “It is an issue we are well aware of,” she admitted, “But we do not have the pony power to see to every matter that is brought to us. These last few years have forced us to rethink our defenses to better safeguard Canterlot from attack. Princess Twilight has taken to attending to many of the maters you have likely come across, but it is a persisting problem we are still trying to rectify.” “Well…” I started, “I may have a solution that can help with that problem.” “Do you now?” Luna mused, “And what might that be?” I had to force myself to speak through my tension and drew in slow, steady breaths. “You need more Pony power, like you just said,” I continued, “Ponies that are outside of your military, so they’re not bogged down with defending Canterlot or patrolling its borders. Ponies that aren’t connected with the local law enforcements or set in the ‘Community only’ mentality that is present in nearly every town and city beyond Canterlot.” “And where do you propose we find such Ponies?” Celestia asked. She seemed quite curious about my thoughts so far, but Luna looked more reserved. “You don’t,” I said simply, “They’ll find you.” I took another deep breath and tried to explain my idea in full as best I could manage. “I am not from this world, as such, I see things differently than you all do… But in my world, I helped people. People with all sorts of problems and issues. I can’t just sit around doing nothing all day, but I don’t know enough about your world to get a normal job any time soon. So, I’d like put my skills to use for you while I’m here. With your permission, I’d like to make an organization to do what your forces cannot. I’d like to make a Guild.” “A Guild?” Celestia said, seemingly surprised. “Yes,” I said quickly, “A Guild. Someplace where I can set up shop and help those in need. While it’d be a little slower than my worlds setup, your mail system would allow those in need to send word to me, and I would then go out and help those ponies asking for aid. It wouldn’t take very long for word of what I was doing to reach other like-minded ponies and I am certain that before long I’d have a fair-sized force to help me, all willing and able to do the things that the locals or military can’t.” Celestia looked down at the table and seemed to lose herself in thought for a moment. Luna on the other hand, chimed in her thoughts almost immediately. “As you have just said,” she said, “You are not from this world. This idea of yours could fail completely if no like-minded ponies come to your banner. What will you do then?” “That’s entirely possible,” I agreed, “And if that happens, then I’ll continue to help the Ponies of Equestria on my own if I have to.” “Why?” Luna asked, “Why go through all the trouble for a world not your own? And why begin such an endeavor when you may not be here long enough to even see the fruits of your labor?” I chuckled sheepishly and gave a weak shrug. “I may very well be stuck here for the rest of my life, whether I want to admit that or not,” I said honestly, “And as selfish as it is, I just… I want something I can relate to here. Something from my home. Doing this would bring that little slice of my world back into my life, and if it works out as well as I think it will, your people will be much better off as a whole by the time I’m done. And even if I do manage to get back home somewhere down the line, once this thing is on its feet, it’ll be able to continue without me for as long as your people need help.” “And how do you plan to handle the expenses of such a thing?” Luna asked. I tensed at her question and answered it honestly, though I hoped it didn’t get the idea shut down on the spot. “I would have to charge those in need a fee,” I admitted, “Nothing to extreme, but they would be hiring us to help them. Bits would be the default form of currency, but if that was beyond the clients means, we’d be willing to work something out. Food for example, supplies, information on magic or relics Dawn could study. We’d just need enough to cover the costs and keep us running. I’m not looking to build a fortune off the backs of those in need.” “So, you would aid those in need, and base your fee off an individual basis?” Luna asked. I nodded. “And if you come to receive a great many requests for aid, what will you do then?” she asked, “You cannot aid them all at once.” “I’d go over each request and handle them from most severe to least,” I said, “The guy whose house is on fire would be dealt with before the guy looking to move to a new town, as an example. Like you said, I can’t do everything at once, but I will get to them all eventually. Everyone deserves a chance at being helped, no matter how far away they live form the cities.” “While your idea holds promise, I am not certain you fully grasp the effect such an organization could have in our lands,” Luna said, “Assume you reach a state of power that rivals our own military. With such a group it is entirely possible, and while I have seen nothing within you to suggest you would, once you leave and a new pony takes over in your absence, what would stop them from attempting to overthrow us?” “It wouldn’t matter if we rivaled your military or not,” I assured her, “Because, like your military, we would answer directly to you. I would be in charge of the Guild, sure. I would choose the missions and who does what too, but at the end of the day, I would still be serving Equestria and the two of you above all others. And so would all who joined.” “And what of the safety of those who would join you?” Luna asked, “What precautions would you take to ensure their safety? Or the safety of those they may bring to justice? You yourself were nearly killed from your own poorly planned exploration of the Everfree forest.” I groaned and dropped my head in embarrassment at her words. “I see you heard about that then?” I asked, though I knew she had to have. “We have,” Luna said nodding, “Princess Twilight told us of your attempted exploration of the forest. You are lucky to have returned from the Everfree alive.” “I’m pretty durable,” I laughed, hoping to change the subject, “But as for those that would work with me… I would do everything I could to ensure their safety. There will always be risks involved with anything though. Just like with your military, there would be strict guidelines for conduct and clear do’s and don’ts. And of course, I’d never force anyone to do a mission they didn’t think they could handle, or a mission I didn’t feel I could do myself if needed.” “You are not a fair judge of capability though, Silver Wing,” Luna stated, “Your combat expertise is unique in this world. You are more capable than most, almost to a fault in that it makes you overconfident.” I felt myself frown at her words and spoke before I could curb the tone of irritation my pride carried with it. “Then I’ll teach those who join me to fight like I can,” I said, “Sky Flare’s picked up on it quickly enough. I’m sure others could too.” “Now you are speaking of creating a trained militia with a level of authority that rivals that of all but our military,” Luna said sternly, “Such a force, if they became even half as skilled as you are, would render our military obsolete.” “I don’t mind training your military too then,” I said, “My way of fighting isn’t some secret weapon, it’s just how I fight.” Luna looked to Celestia for a moment, then back to me. “And we feel it should remain as such,” she stated, “You have already taught Sky Flare the basis of your techniques, we cannot change that, but we must insist that you share your secrets with no others. Sky Flare too will be made aware of our desire that your teachings spread no further. Is that clear?” I dropped my head and nodded. I wanted to protest, but there really wasn’t anything I could do. Their word was law here. Mine was just hot air. “Our lands will be protected with our strength,” Celestia explained, “We cannot change what you have taught Sky Flare, but we are not naive to the dangers untrained ponies would face. As such, if we were to entertain this idea of yours, Sky Flare, or one of our other instructors would train those who seek to join you in our methods of combat.” “I’d be perfectly fine with that.” I agreed quickly. I still couldn’t be sure of the outcome of all this, but I felt a glimmer of hope that maybe they were actually considering my idea. “Should we agree to this,” Luna said, resuming her line of questioning, “Where would you make your base of operations? Here in Canterlot? Back in Ponyville? Or would you seek to build a palace of your own in the far reaches of our land?” I chuckled a little and shook my head. “No palaces for me,” I said smiling, “I’m not royalty, and have no desire to be seen even remotely as such. But I do have someplace in mind. I don’t know how land and property work here, but… While exploring, I stumbled across an abandoned Inn. It’s a little run down and in need of some serious T.L.C. but it’d make for a perfect base if I could get it fixed up.” “Oh?” Celestia said curiously, “And where might this Inn be?” “It’s in the Everfree Forest, near it’s… Uh…” I faulted, trying to recall where exactly it was within the Everfree, “Near its north-eastern edge?” I watched as both Luna and Celestia grew tenser at my words and waited uneasily for their comments. “I do not believe you realize quite how dangerous a place the Everfree forest can be, Silver Wing,” Celestia cautioned, “There are a great many dangerous beasts that dwell there. Not the least of which are the Timber Wolves you have already found yourself face to face with.” “Oh, I am well aware of just how dangerous that place can be.” I assured her. Then I let out a chuckle and added, “My ribs and Sky Flare will never let me forget.” “And yet, even after it nearly claimed your life, you would willingly choose to not only return but seek to create a home for yourself there?” Luna said, “Why?” “That forest is unlike anything else I’ve seen here,” I explained, “It’s free, and wild, and filled with life. Nothing there is controlled by Earth Ponies, Pegasai, or Unicorns… It reminds me of the forests from my world. So, despite its dangers, I feel at home there. The Timber Wolves too would make for great guard dogs for the Guild. No one would purposely go into the forest because of them, so I wouldn’t have to worry about random passersby stumbling into the place.” “The Timber Wolves cannot be tamed like some pet,” Luna stated, “To attempt such a thing will only bring harm upon yourself or worse.” “Trust me,” I said, “I’ve learned from my mistakes. They won’t be a problem the next time I run into them.” She eyed me seriously for a moment then her gaze softened slightly. “We shall see.” she said. She paused thoughtfully for a moment, then continued, “I will assume that you will need some bits of your own to cover the repairs of this Inn then? As well as any other start-up costs that may arise?” I lowered my head a little and nodded. “I would, yes,” I said, “And while it wouldn’t be immediate, I would pay back every coin in time if you’d allow this to happen.” Celestia looked from me, to Luna, then back and smiled softly. “Would you mind giving us a moment to discuss this privately, Silver Wing?” “Of course not.” I said. I rose to my feet and headed back towards the doors I had entered from. “Thank you, Silver Wing,” Celestia called after me, “We shouldn’t be long.” I left the room and let out a heavy sigh in an attempt to clear the tension I felt gnawing at shoulders. It felt like I had just sat through an interview with some big company and was now waiting to hear if I’d done good enough to get the job or not. The two guards eyed me curiously, but they didn’t ask whatever it was that was on their minds. I wanted to try and strike up a conversation with them to pass the time, but I was too concerned about what the Princesses might be saying to get any words out of my mouth. I wasn’t sure how much time had passed, but eventually, the doors opened from within and the Princesses beckoned for me to return. I made my way back to my seat and sat down nervously. “We have discussed the idea of you forming a Guild, and have reached a consensus.” Luna stated. I fought not to ask ‘and?’ and waited tensely for their reply. “You will be given a sum of bits from the treasury that should be sufficient to get your Guild underway,” Celestia said with a smile, “As well as ownership over the abandoned Inn you found within the Everfree. We visited it often when it was in use decades ago, and look forward to seeing it alive with ponies once more.” My heart nearly skipped a beat at her words. They agreed! They actually agreed! I’d be able to carve a slice of my world out of the Everfree Forest and find some sense of belonging here after all! “But-” She added, then paused. My heart sunk. ‘But,’ the single worst word in history. Those three little letters could turn even the best scenario into one of the worst in an instant. “We request a few things in return,” Luna chimed in, “Precautionary measures to avoid more serious complications that may or may not arise in time.” “Alright…” I said slowly, “What did you have in mind?” “Firstly,” Luna resumed, “We request a weekly progress report, detailing what you have done, whom you have helped, and how you have helped them.” “That’s fine,” I said nodding, “I had planned to do that one already to be honest.” “Good,” Luna stated, “Secondly. We request that you take one of our Guards into your ranks. He will obey your orders, but he will report to us of your activities and how you seem to be handling yourself from an Equestrian’s eyes. While we trust you, and will allow you to create your Guild, you are not from this world. So, we must take some precautions and put safeguards in place to protect Equestria. Do you understand?” I nodded again. “You want to have someone you wholly trust in the Guild to keep an eye on things and make sure what I’m doing falls in line with what you would approve of.” “Correct,” Luna said, “We hope that does not offend you, but you must see this from our perspective. While we will aid you in whatever way we can to make your stay here comfortable, you are not from this world. As such, our first priority will always be the safety of the Ponies of Equestria.” “No worries,” I said, “I’ll accept as many guards into the Guild as you’d like. You both can come and visit anytime you’d like to too, if you want. Heck, if you have them, feel free to setup a camera or two to see how things are going for yourselves.” “I am certain we will pay your Guild a visit in time,” Luna said, “But we will wait for you to get it underway first.” “As for your mention of a camera,” Celestia commented, “Are you certain you are comfortable with such a thing? There would be little privacy for you, or those of your Guild.” “Well, don’t put them in the bathrooms or bedrooms,” I said, “But feel free to put them anywhere else you’d like. I have nothing to hide. So long as everyone has their own private space, I’m fine with camera’s everywhere else if it’d make you both feel more comfortable about this whole thing.” “It would,” Luna stated, “So we will do as you offered. Though we will not be using cameras.” I looked at her confused for a moment, then sighed as I realized what she probably meant. “Magic?” I checked. She nodded, then explained. “Once you have completed the repairs, we will come and inspect your new Guild. At that time, we will place viewing spells where we feel is appropriate.” “Place as many as you’d like.” I said. I didn’t much care for the idea, but if it meant I could have something like I was used to and call home, I’d tolerate almost anything. “Thirdly,” Luna continued, “And though we have discussed this already this evening, its severity must be made clear. The teachings of your world are not to be taught to another. Should we find that you have been training others in your way of fighting, there will be serious repercussions.” “I understand,” I said, “I won’t teach anyone else. I can’t help it if someone tries to imitate what I do though…” “We understand that,” Luna said, “And will not hold such occurrences against you. Our concern lies in your directly teaching another.” “Right,” I said, then I hesitated a moment before speaking further, “But… What about Sky Flare? I’ve already taught her a lot, and she’s been teaching me a great many things in return. Like how to fly better for instance.” “We cannot change what has already been done,” Celestia said, “And we understand the relationship you two have developed through these lessons. As such, you will be allowed to continue your lessons with Sky Flare, and Sky Flare alone.” “W-we don’t really have a relationship.” I said half under my breath. “Your friendship then.” Celestia mused. I sighed at her motherly smirk and fought not to roll my eyes. “Lastly,” Luna resumed, “Should this Guild prove to be as effective as you believe it will be, we request that you train a successor as you go about building your forces. Without you driving it, the chances of it succeeding after you have departed are slim, unless another is made as knowledgeable about its workings as you are.” “Sky Flare would probably be the best choice for that,” I said, “But I’d have to ask her if she’d even want the job or not first.” “Very well,” Luna agreed, “Should she decline however, another candidate will have to be found.” “I’ll let you know if that’s the case then, and we can figure something out.” I said. “What do you plan to name this Guild of yours by the way?” Celestia asked curiously. “I uhh…” I shrugged weakly and scratched at the back of my neck, “I don’t really know yet… Naming something has never been my strong suit. But I’m sure it’ll come to me once the Inn has been fixed up.” “I look forward to hearing what you chose then.” Celestia smiled. “As do I.” Luna added. I nodded and found myself smiling like an excited child. I still could hardly believe that they had agreed to let me do this, to make a Guild and run it myself. Sure, they had imposed some restrictions and security measures, but that was all completely reasonable. I would have run the Guild from this very room in Canterlot if they wanted me too. I would have done anything if it meant having that little bit of something from my world, even if I had to build it myself from the bones of an abandoned Inn in the middle of the woods. “A pony from the treasury will help you to estimate your starting expenses come the morning,” Celestia said, returning me to the moment at hand, “And unless there is more to this Guild that you would like to discuss, I would very much like to hear of your adventures beyond Canterlot. I am aware of your time spent in Ponyville, but surely you spent time in other locations before that?” “A few,” I admitted, “Like Cloudsdale. That place was amazing! If I didn’t like the Everfree forest so much, I’d have wanted to try and build the Guild in the sky!” We talked about my adventures until late into the night. Celestia and Luna seemed genuinely interested in what I had done and seen in my time beyond Canterlot, as well as what I thought about the interactions I had with others. They seemed less surprised by the similarities I described to my own world than I had expected, and most of their questions fell along the lines of what I thought about certain things or events I had come to learn of. The way I thought seemed to be their main focus, but I never commented on that. Eventually, dinner came to an end and Celestia turned in for the night. Luna had left with her sister and I had returned to my room. Part of me still wanted to check in on Sky Flare, but I tried my best to resist the urge. It was late, nearly midnight now, so I didn’t want to disturb her. It wasn’t easy though… We had been together nearly every moment for the last few months, so I found myself missing her company a surprising amount as I laid there in my bed. I spent nearly an hour laying there, wide awake until I finally gave up on sleeping altogether. I sighed heavily and sat up. “I can’t sleep without her near…” I realized. I tried to shake the thought from my head and chuckled as I assured myself there had to be another explanation. It wasn’t so much ‘her,’ I convinced myself, it was the sound of her breathing nearby that I was missing. The slow, steady, rhythmic inhale and exhale of her sleeping form a few feet away had become the norm for my bedtime routine, so without it, I just couldn’t sleep. I didn’t care about her in that way after all, so it had to be a sound thing. Whatever the reason, I couldn’t sleep, not tonight anyways. With another sigh, I climbed out of bed and went for a walk to try and tire myself out. Before long, I found myself in the garden outside. The sky was clear tonight, and the sea of stars above shimmered beautifully. “Why is it you are not sleeping with the rest of Canterlot?” a voice called to me from nearby. I jumped in surprise and shot a glare behind me, looking for the source of the voice. I found Princess Luna to be standing nearby, a smirk clear on her face. “I apologize, Silver Wing,” she said softly, “I had not meant to frighten you.” ‘Yeah right.’ I thought, forcing the frown from my face. I shook myself to calm my heart rate and smiled back at her as best I could. “I can’t sleep tonight is all,” I said, “Besides, it’s a nice night tonight, so I figured I’d take a walk.” “You are welcome to join me if you would like,” Luna offered, “Unless…” She paused a moment, then her lips curled into a sly grin. “Unless you feel up to something a little more… Energetic?” I raised an eyebrow at her words and grew a little nervous by what she could mean. “Like what…?” I asked slowly. “Your wounds are healed now, are they not?” she asked. “Y-yeah…?” I said, still not sure what she was getting at. “My sister is deep in sleep now,” Luna said quickly, “Tonight would be the perfect night to show me what you are truly capable of.” She moved closer to me and her grin grew steadily wider. “What I’m capable of?” I stammered, “W-what do you mean?” “You promised that you would show me the strength of your fighting prowess when you had recovered from your injuries,” She explained, “You have not forgotten this, have you?” I sighed with momentary relief, then tensed anew. I had actually forgotten about that. Luna wanted to fight me seriously after seeing what I could do at the demonstration I took part in for her. I had to get out of this if I could, but I was at a loss as to how. “No no,” I said quickly, “I haven’t forgotten… But, are you sure right now is the best time? I mean-” “Now is the perfect time!” Luna said excitedly, “Now, while my sister is asleep and the Guard is to be changed!” “But…” I wanted to protest, but the look of eager excitement on her face forced me to agree. “Alright…” I said reluctantly, “But please, don’t tell your sister...” “Fear not, Silver Wing,” Luna grinned, “This night will be our little secret.” She came right up beside me and her horn started to glow a soft purple hue. A moment later, there was a blinding flash of purple light, then I found myself somewhere completely different than where I had just been standing. It was dark and the air was cool. The ground beneath my feet was softer and seemed to shift slightly if I moved. Looking around, I saw only inky darkness and started to panic as I realized that Princess Luna had vanished. I forced myself to remain calm and listened for any sounds beyond that of my own heartbeat to try and get my bearings. There was a faint hum from somewhere nearby and I looked around quickly for its source. With a flash, I saw a purple streak of light shoot upwards into the blackness above me. It struck something that seemed to absorb its light, and soon a radiant glow grew until it shone down over me and the surrounding area. It didn’t take me long to recognize where I was. I was standing in the middle of the arena beneath Canterlot! I found Luna standing nearby, with her horn pointed up at a large crystal set into the high domed ceiling above. She must have used her magic to light the crystal somehow, and to bring us both down here instantly as well. ‘God, magic is useful,’ I thought, ‘Is there anything it can’t do? Well… Besides send me back home…’ I sighed and shook the thought of home from my mind. Luna turned to face me and grinned. “I have been waiting for this since the day I first saw you fight against our Guard, Silver Wing,” she said, “Do not disappoint me!” “I’ll do my best not to.” I said, though I wasn’t sure what to expect when it came to fighting her. Sky Flare had said she’d be stronger and faster than anyone I’d fought so far, but Luna didn’t look like she could throw a decent punch. She looked far to elegant and refined to be a fighter, but I knew better than to judge a book by its cover. Luna moved a few feet further away from me and turned back to face me again. “Are you ready?” She called to me. “W-wait!” I squeaked out, “Give me a sec! A-and what are the rules!?” “The rules are simple,” Luna said plainly, “I will refrain from using my magic as we previously discussed, to level the field of battle. And you will come at me with everything you can muster. Hold nothing back!” “I’m not going to go at you all out!” I protested, “I didn’t even do that against Stalwart! What if I hurt you?” “I will be fine, Silver Wing,” Luna sighed, “Now cease these excuses and show me the ferocity and cunning of your hooves!” I frowned a little and nodded as I gave in. Taking a breath, I rose to my hind legs and assumed my fighting stance. I waited for Luna to do the same, but she remained on all fours and simply grinned at me in apparent anticipation. "Are you ready?" I asked seriously Luna nodded, and our match began. I dashed towards her and struck for her chest with a straight jab. Despite my desire to fight seriously as Luna wished, I just couldn’t bring myself to punch her full force. My swing was halfhearted at best and carried no real intent with it. Luna stepped back to avoid my strike and I swung again with only marginally more effort. I caught a frown creep over her face and she rose a forehoof up and swung at me. I blocked her strike, and much to my surprise, felt her blow crash clear through my guard and launch me through the air. Using my wings to stabilize myself, I flipped over in the air and skidded to a stop in the sand. The arm I had blocked with was nearly numb from her blow and I stared at it in disbelief. She really was strong, I realized, even stronger than Stalwart! And to make things even worse, I could tell by the way she had attacked me that her own strike was as halfhearted as mine had been. I looked back up at her and felt my stomach tense as I began to understand why Sky Flare had been so against the idea of me fighting her. She was way too strong, and while that concerned me, it also started to excite me. Fighting a stronger opponent was always a thrill, but the thought of just how much stronger Luna might actually be than I was nearly made me giddy with anticipation. "You are not taking this seriously, Silver Wing,” Luna sighed, “You agreed that you would fight me with the prowess you showed during the demonstration you took part in three months ago. Are you not one of your word?" I looked down, a little ashamed by her words, then steeled my gaze and readied my wings. "I do what I say I will," I said, "I always have. So, despite the outcome of this, I will try and hit you for real from here on out." "Then let us see what you can really do." Luna stated, though she seemed to hold an air of doubt in her words. I knew I’d have to be careful from here on out, truly careful. It was a rare feeling, the knowledge that one misstep could cost me dearly, and I loved it. Part of me wondered if Luna might be having the same feeling from me, or at least, be hoping to feel it. I took a deep breath, then cast aside all my hesitation and inhibitions as I exhaled. She wanted me to fight her for real, so be it. Until this was over, Luna was no longer a Princess in my eyes. She was my opponent, my target, my enemy, and I would not stop until either she or I lay in defeat. With a flap of my wings that forced the sand behind me to flare up, I dashed for Luna at top speed. As before, I swung with a straight jab for her chest. She moved to deflect my strike as she had just done, so I shifted the angle of my punch to hit her square on the elbow. I struck her as I would have struck Stalwart, using my legs and wings to put as much power behind my blow as I could unleash. My punch struck hard and I caught Luna wince at the impact. Seizing the opening, I side stepped her fast as she recoiled and fired two quick jabs into her left side, then fired a third strike into the side of her head. She staggered back and caught herself with her far hoof, then glared at me angrily. A moment later, her horn pulsed with purple light and an intense, unwithstandable pressure struck me like a ton of bricks. I was sent flying, almost clear to the far end of the arena. I landed hard on my back atop the sand and slid to stop as I winced in pain. "...I hate magic..." I groaned aloud as I found the world to be spinning around me. "I apologize Silver Wing!" I heard Luna call from the other end of the arena, "I did not mean to do that, I was simply caught off guard by your sudden assault!" "N-no worries…” I said weakly, “I probably shouldn’t have done that anyways… I just... Lost myself in the moment there for a sec… So, my bad." "No, no!" Luna protested, "That was wonderful! Please, come at me again with just as much ferocity. I have not felt a moment of tension like that in a thousand years!" I got back to my feet and shook my head to clear the sand from my ears. Looking up, I found Luna to be grinning at me in a way I had never seen her look before. She looked almost wild, but happy and excited, like a child let loose in a candy store. Something else seemed off about her though, and while I couldn’t be sure it wasn’t just a head injury from the impact I had received, her star like mane seemed darker somehow and longer than it had been before. Despite being sent flying by what I guessed amounted to a magical spur of the moment backhand, I was starting to feel quite the thrill swelling up within me. I had fought seriously enough against the three guards in the tournament, but this was different. There was no one watching me now. No one judging me and critiquing my strange fighting style. Luna could also take even more of a hit than Stalwart could. That meant I might be able to really let loose and see what my new body could actually do if pushed to the limits. “You are still able to continue, are you not?” Luna asked hopefully. I rolled my shoulders and nodded. “I am,” I said, “So prepare yourself.” “It is you who should prepare yourself, Silver Wing,” Luna grinned, “For now that I know you are going to take this seriously, so shall I.” I would have chuckled at her comment, but she leapt from the sandy floor of the arena and flew straight for me without a moments delay. She was fast, almost too fast for me to prepare for. I had barely gotten to my hind feet when she closed in on me and I reflexively moved to block her strike. She swung wide, backhanding my forearm with the full force of her momentum behind her. I couldn’t hold my guard, and I was sent tumbling through the air like a ragdoll. My arm burned with pain, but thankfully, it wasn’t broken. Using my wings to right myself, I found Luna to be on top of me already, winding up for another powerful swing. I knew I couldn’t block another hit like that without injury, so I’d have to avoid her attacks from here on out. Though she didn’t look it at all, Luna was way stronger than I was. But, just because I couldn’t match her in terms of raw power, didn’t mean I couldn’t beat her in other areas. I’d have to use her brute force against her, but for that I’d have to play it defensively. As her swing came for my side, I stepped back and caught the back of her hoof with my own. Guiding her strike past me, I shot a counter punch right into her now exposed side. I hit her with far more force than I usually would, throwing my legs and core into the mix for extra power. My blow made her recoil, but before I could continue my counter, Luna struck at me with a wing. Sky Flare had used this trick as a method of distraction in the past when we sparred, but Luna’s variation was no mere distraction. She slammed the arm of her wing downwards atop my head like a hammer and I was sent straight into the sand below. I was dazed and my head rang like a gong, but I knew I had to move, had to get away from her and regain my focus. I threw myself backwards as best I could, but before I could recover enough to find my bearings, a crushing blow caught me in the side. The world spun around me as I tumbled atop the sand, and as I heard the quick beat of wings approaching me once again, I realized just how outmatched I was. She wasn’t just stronger, she was faster too, a lot faster. Sky Flare had been wholly right, and my pride wept at the thought of admitting that one to her. “What is the matter Silver Wing?” I heard Luna call from somewhere beyond my daze, “Are you spent already? Surely you can muster more than this.” I took this small moment to catch my breath and recover my bearings. Shakily, I rose to my feet and found Luna to be standing barely a yard away. She was grinning wildly and her eyes held a passionate glow like firelight. I felt like a mouse that had been caught by a cat. She was playing with me, and we both knew it. I smirked weakly and assumed my fighting stance once more. “Not quite yet,” I said, “Let’s try that one more time.” Luna grinned wider and leapt for me again. I knew I probably wasn’t going to be able to beat her. I probably wouldn’t last another thirty seconds at this rate. But I’d least leave one more bruise to show that I took this seriously. Luna struck for my head with a straight punch and I ducked it fast. Her chest was directly in front of my face now and I leapt straight up with all the strength my four legs had. The top of my head slammed into the bottom of Luna’s jaw and her head snapped back at my strike. The impact hurt like hell, but unlike Luna, I had been expecting it. Using my core muscles and legs, I shot my right hoof upwards after her and delivered a deep uppercut to Luna’s stomach, then moved to strike her side with a quick left hook in the hopes of overwhelming her with my assault. My left had barely begun to swing when I found Luna’s head returning to my own with unforgiving force. She was still grinning as wildly as she had been a moment before, and her forehead crashed into mine before I could even blink. Surprisingly, I felt no pain from her attack, but even more surprising was the fact that I now found myself standing in what looked like a vast meadow of some sort. The grass was a silvered blue, with flowers that glistened like tiny stars. The moon sat high above, but it was as bright as day everywhere I looked and not a soul was in sight. Neither were there any houses or landmarks that I could find along the horizon. I was alone, in an endless field of starlight flowers. An odd sound like swirling wind dew my attention, and I found Princess Luna to be forming out of thin air nearby. “I must say, I am impressed Silver Wing!” She called to me. Her voice practically sang out from seemingly everywhere, and I could almost feel her joy wrap around me. I would have been concerned as to where I was, or how I had gotten to this strange place, but after the last few months I had started to get used to things being strange. “Impressed?” I called back as she walked up to me, “How? I got my ass handed to me!” Luna titled her head at my words and I frowned at myself for speaking like that. “What a curious phrase,” she said thoughtfully, “Still, you have done remarkably well. You managed to land three resounding blows on me! No guard in our service has done so well since before I was sealed in the moon one thousand years ago.” “I’m glad I didn’t disappoint you then,” I said, “But I have to admit, I didn’t believe Sky Flare when she told me how strong you really were. Or you for that matter when you said you could take a hit.” “Perhaps you will be so kind as to fight me again someday.” Luna said smiling. “Sure,” I said, “I can fight you again right now if you want. I don’t seem to have been hit as hard as I thought I was.” “You were struck sufficiently hard, Silver Wing,” Luna chuckled, “You feel no pain now as we are in your dreams.” “My dreams!?” I gasped. I knew that Luna could snoop around in the dreams of others, but I didn’t know she could make herself appear in them, or make me lucid dream to have a conversation. I looked around at the world and wasn’t entirely convinced. It looked real enough, but what reason would Luna have to lie? With a sigh, I took what she said as truth and fell silent for a moment as I realized what that meant for my body. “I’m laying face down in the dirt then, aren’t I?” I asked. Whether it was a trick of my mind or not, I couldn’t be sure, but I could swear I tasted sand in my mouth even though there was none. “Not quite,” Luna chuckled, “You are back in your room in the Canterlot Palace now, safe and sound. I had a medical pony check you over after you lost consciousness, then brought you to your room in secret.” “Why in secret?” I asked, “Not that I’m complaining.” The thought of however many guards and medical ponies seeing me being carried through the halls, unconscious, again, was rather depressing to think about. But luckily, it seems my pride wouldn’t have to endure that this time. “You were correct in your concern of my sister’s reaction to our little fight,” Luna admitted, “She would be most displeased if she were to find out. So, I felt it best to take precautions to avoid that outcome.” “But wait,” I gasped in disbelief, “You said you’d take care of her if she found out! You can’t just hide the fact we fought!” “I am a Princess,” Luna stated simply, “I can hide whatever I wish.” She smiled at me and added, “So, if you would please refrain from speaking of our encounter tonight, I would be most appreciative.” I was stunned. I thought she’d just talk to Celestia and work things out that way, but instead, she’s just going to act like nothing even happened? I sighed and dropped my head. “Alright…” I said tiredly. “Very good,” she smiled, “I shall take my leave and let you rest. Thank you for a most wonderful night.” “Anytime,” I said, “Though next time, I’ll be more prepared for you.” “Excellent,” Luna grinned, “I look forward to it.” After that, Luna faded from my apparent dream and I quickly felt myself slipping into the blurred mashups that were my typical dreams.