//------------------------------// // The Wheels Begin to Turn // Story: Trapped in the Mirror of Worlds // by Silver_Wing //------------------------------// A hard knocking drew me from my slumber, and with my return to consciousness, I found my head to be pounding harder than my door was. I groaned and sat up in my bed, then winced as my side cried out in protest. “Not again…” I whimpered. I felt my side gingerly and sighed with relief. It was sore, but not broken. The knocking came again and I hopped off my bed with a pained sigh. “Yeah, yeah, I’m coming. Hold your horses.” I frowned at my choice in wording and shook my head. Opening the door, I found an irritated looking white Unicorn to be standing before me. She had a golden mane and seemed to be a fair bit older than most of the ponies I’d met so far. A clipboard with a quill floated beside her, and they seemed to be pointed straight at me. “Silver Wing?” she asked in an apparent huff. “Yes?” I said, “Can I help you?” My head was still pounding and this ponies irritation only seemed to fuel my own. “I was asked by Princess Celestia to meet with you,” she stated, “I am here to help you calculate the startup costs of your business. I have been knocking for nearly ten minutes now.” It took me a moment, then I remembered that Celestia had said a pony from the treasury was coming by this morning. “Right,” I said, “Sorry about that… I uhh… Had a late night.” The Unicorn shook her head and walked past me into my room. “Well, now that I’ve finally managed to rouse you, let us begin,” she snorted, “You are not the only appointment I have today you know.” My first impression was that this Unicorn was rather rude, but if I had made her wait as long as she said, her attitude was probably warranted. “Let us begin with a list of items you will need,” She started, “Tell me everything.” “W-well…” I started, then fell silent. I hadn’t really had time to plan out a detailed list of items yet. I had also only just woken up, so my mind was still clouded over. “I’m not really sure…” I said finally, “Yet…” “Not really sure?” she repeated, “You went to the Princesses seeking a loan and didn’t prepare a list of amenities before hoof? You must have had a marvelous pitch to make up for such a lack of foresight.” I frowned at that and she must have noticed as she snorted at me in her own irritation. “Do not get cross with me, Silver Wing,” she stated, “Now sit down and tell me what you do know you will need. We can figure out the rest at a later date.” I fought not to glare at her and sat down. Turning my focus to what the Guild would need as best I could, I started listing what I assumed would be needed above all else. “Well, food for one,” I started, “And building supplies like wood, nails and tools. And maybe some workers too, though I don’t know how many ponies would willingly head into the Everfree, so I’ll probably have to do the labor myself… Well, me and Sky Flare, and the pony the Princesses send along with us.” “Did you say the Everfree!?” the Unicorn gasped, “Surely you don’t intend to build a business in the Everfree Forest?” I smirked at her reaction and nodded. “Oh yes,” I said as casually as I could manage, “I find it quite nice there, and the wildlife is very charming.” “Surely you jest?” She scoffed in disbelief. “Not at all,” I said, “The Princesses have given me an old abandoned Inn that I found in it. So, I’m going to be renovating it and setting up shop inside.” “Well that’s just absurd!” she started, but I cut her off. “Luckily for me then, it doesn’t matter what you think,” I said matter-of-factly, “The Princesses approve of my idea, so can we please get back to business Miss…?” “It’s Mrs. Goldenrod,” Goldenrod said, “and there is no need to get cross with me, I am simply stating my opinion on your choice of business locals.” I sighed and dropped my shoulders a little. “Sorry,” I said, “I’ve just had a really rough night. I have a killer headache, and while I’m sorry for making you wait, you have been a little less than charming since we met.” She snorted at me, then smiled. “Let us begin anew then, shall we?” she offered. “Sure,” I nodded, “But I really don’t know what I’ll need just yet. The last time I was at that Inn, I was kinda half-conscious, with broken ribs, and a broken wing… So, I didn’t really get to take in all the details.” I watched her eyes widen slightly, then continued before she could say anything more against my choice in Guild grounds. “Is there any way I could get a small sum of bits now, and go scout the Inn out? You know, take notes of what needs repairing and what other supplies will be needed in the long run. Then get back to you?” “While that’s not normally how these things are done, in your current situation, that would likely be best,” Goldenrod said, “Once you have compiled your list of necessities, bring it to me. I can usually be found within the treasury records during the daylight hours.” “I’ll come find you in a few days then,” I said, “Thank you for your understanding.” Goldenrod nodded to me, then trotted back towards my door. “Good luck with your endeavor, Silver Wing,” she said, “I will have the small sum of bits you requested delivered to your room later this afternoon. And I do hope you know what you’re doing.” I chuckled at her and gave a weak shrug. “We’ll know if I return, right?” I joked. “Indeed.” She said. Then she left, closing my door behind her with her magic. I slumped down onto the floor and grasped at my head wearily. It hurt like hell, but I was pretty sure I was alright. I’d just be sore for a while, again… Glancing to my bed, I seriously debated going back to sleep, but I couldn’t just yet. I had to go check on Sky Flare and tell her that the Princesses had actually approved my idea to make a Guild. I laughed at the thought of what she’d say when I told her. I doubt she’ll believe me at first, and I couldn’t help wonder what Breezy would think of the whole idea too. With a groan, I rose to my feet and headed for my door. Sky Flare would probably still be at her place, so I’d stop by there first, and if she wasn’t, Breezy or Lemon Bloom would know where she went. It took me over an hour to reach Sky Flare’s house. I had decided to walk there instead of fly. With how my head and side felt, I figured it was better to be safe than sorry and stick to the ground till I felt better. The last thing I wanted do to, was accidentally fly into a building or something if I got light headed. By the time I’d arrived, my muscles had started to feel a little better. I’d worked out the stiffness and gotten the blood flowing, so as long as I didn’t stop moving for any length of time, I’d stay feeling pretty good. “Heads up!” a voice suddenly called from above. I glanced up and was surprised to see Sky Flare and Breezy high above me. They looked like they had saddlebags on that were loaded with groceries of some kind, but that wasn’t all I noticed. There was movement of some kind between us. It gleamed in the sunlight and seemed to be moving on its own. I realized too late that the object I saw hurtling towards me was in fact, an apple. Sky Flare must have tossed one down to me as she called. Unfortunately, even though I was feeling better outwardly, my reflexes were still far from recovered. The apple struck me square on the head and I dropped to the ground with both forehooves clasped over my latest bruise. “Why!?” I cried out in agony. ‘What karmatic rule did I break to piss the world off so much!?’ I thought, feeling momentarily defeated by life itself. It didn’t seem fair. Wasn’t it enough that I was trapped here in this place? Apparently not… I’d been injured during the demonstration, nearly died in the Everfree, then wound up losing to both Sky Flare and Luna. And to top it all off, I was nearly knocked out by an apple to the head. I flopped over onto my side and let out a long, deep sigh as my head throbbed from the impact of the apple. Every ache and sore muscle I had seemed to throb with newfound pain and I very much regretted not choosing my bed an hour ago. I frowned inwardly and shook my head as I realized my own stupidity. ‘No,’ I thought tiredly, ‘Karma has nothing to do with it…’ I knew the risks of taking part in the demonstration, so that one was on me for trying my luck. The Everfree was also my fault, since I was the one who snuck off in the dead of the night to explore, despite Sky Flare’s constant warnings against it. Losing to Sky Flare afterwards was due to my own stubbornness as well, and I knew from the start that I was out matched by Luna… Glancing over at the nearby apple, I frowned a little and sighed again. Even the apple was my own fault. I should have caught it, or dodged… “Are you alright Silver!?” Sky Flare called to me as she landed beside me, “I am so sorry, I thought for sure you’d catch it with your magic like you usually do!” I would have thought she was sincere in her apology, if it weren’t for the clear laughter she was only barely managing to hold back. “Good to see yer still using yer ‘ead boy.” Breezy chuckled from somewhere behind me. “Always.” I groaned. I got to my feet a little shakily and looked at Sky Flare tiredly. “Wow, you look terrible Silver, what happened?” she asked, noticing my weary look. “Oh, you know,” I said as casually as I could manage, “Negotiating business with the Princesses isn’t all cakes and tea.” “It went that well huh?” Sky Flare asked. “It did actually,” I laughed, “They agreed.” “They what!?” Sky Flare gasped, “You’re kidding!” “I don’t know if I should say,” I teased, “I mean, last time you said I should toss a rock at your window if I wanted to talk about something important, didn’t you?” I caught a snort of laughter escape from Breezy and Sky Flare frowned at me. “Just get on with it Silver,” She sighed, “I can take a joke.” I couldn’t help but grin at her. She’d been more passively tolerant about my desire to make this Guild and I knew she hadn’t had much faith in it becoming a reality, so this was almost worth the apple to the head to see. “Not a joke I’m afraid,” I said, “I’m one hundred percent serious. The Princesses have approved the founding of my Guild, and guess what? You’re gonna be training those that join us how to fight like Canterlots military.” “Wait, what!?” Sky Flare stammered, “No way! Don’t go dragging me into your mess!” “Aww, come on Sky,” I chuckled at her, “It’ll be fun! Think of all the places we’ll see, and all the ponies you’ll meet by doing this. How can you say no to that?” “Easily,” Sky Flare snorted. “N. O.” “Old up a sec ‘ere,” Breezy cut in, “What’s all this now? Yer foundin’ a Guild, Silver Wing?” “I take it Sky never mentioned why we came back so soon?” I asked, glancing from Breezy back to Sky Flare. Sky Flare glanced away from me. “It never came up.” she shrugged. “Sky said you ‘ad somethin’ to discuss with the Princesses, but that was about it,” Breezy said, then he eyed me seriously, “Now what are you plannin’ exactly?” “A Guild,” I said, “Think like your Wonderbolts or the Canterlot Military, only much smaller. And instead of being mainly for the defense of Equestria, our job will be helping those in need and the general wellbeing of all ponies. There are too many ponies slipping through the cracks of local law enforcement, and despite its best efforts, the Military has its hands full with everything else that’s been going on the last few years. So, I asked the Princesses if I could create something like I used to be a part of in my… Home.” Breezy nodded and looked me over again. “Aye,” he said thoughtfully, “I know the cracks ya mean. But are ya sure you can ‘anlde this? It’s not going ta be easy.” “Wouldn’t be fun if it was easy,” I chuckled, then I looked him in the eyes and spoke seriously, “I know it will be hard, and I know there will be unexpected circumstances that will test me in ways I can’t anticipate, but this something I have always done. I may be a good fighter, but helping people is what I do. It was my job where I’m from, and I feel I can make a real difference here.” Breezy smiled. “Well then, I look forward ta ‘earing all about this Guild,” he said, “But let’s talk more about it inside, Lemon Bloom’ll find this right facinatin’.” “You’re okay with this idea, Dad?” Sky Flare asked, seemingly stunned. “Why wouldn’t I be?” Breezy laughed, “If I was younger, I’d be right there with him tryin’ ta get this thing on its hooves.” I smiled at that. I’d only really talked to Sky Flare about the Guild up until now, and she seemed wholly indifferent to the idea. The Princesses, while intrigued by the prospect, hadn’t really shared too much about their personal feelings towards the idea either. So, it was a comfort to find someone who shared my thinking. Sky Flare sighed heavily and shook her head. “I guess I’ll have to help you then…” she groaned, “If I don’t, I’ll never hear the end of it.” “Oh, come now,” Breezy smirked, “I’d never force ya to do somethin’ ya had no love for.” “Yeah, but you’d sure as Celestia raises the sun rant about it every chance you got till I caved!” she snorted. Breezy looked thoughtful for a moment, then nodded in agreement. “Can’t argue with that one,” he said, “Now come on inside before Silver ‘ere finds another apple.” I groaned as they both started to laugh at me, and followed them inside. “We’re ‘ome!” Breezy called out as he entered, “An’ we got company!” A moment later, Lemon Bloom rounded a corner from the kitchen and smiled at us. “Welcome home dear,” she said, “And hello Silver Wing, it’s nice to see you again. I hear you’ve had quite the adventure the last few months.” “Yeah,” I said, “For the most part.” “Silver ere’s got himself quite the task ahead a him dear,” Breezy said, “You should come ‘ave a listen to what ‘es plannin’ on doin’.” “Let me grab us all a fresh slice of apple pie first,” Lemon Bloom said, “Then I’d love to hear all about it. You make yourself comfortable Silver Wing, and I’ll bring you some pie in the living room.” She looked so cheerful and happy to have company, and the motherly smile she wore almost seemed infectious as it forced me to smile just as big as she was. Breezy chuckled back at me and nodded towards the living room. “That’s my Lemon Bloom,” he said contently, “Always bringing smiles to the face of youngn’s.” I tried to frown at his comment, but Lemon Blooms lingering charm made it impossible. I took a seat in the living room while Breezy and Sky Flare took their groceries into the kitchen and put them away. I passed the time by admiring the many family photo’s they had placed around the room. Sky Flare seemed to be smiling in nearly every photo and I couldn’t help but wonder why she wasn’t as happy and friendly as her mother when it came to other ponies. I knew she was bored here in Canterlot, and had always tried to look after her parents as best she could, but it was hard to imagine that such a gentle and kindhearted mare like Lemon Bloom could have raised such a fiery, short tempered Pegasus like Sky Flare. She could be charming, and even sweet sometimes, but Sky Flare was usually nothing like her mother, at least in my eyes. It made me wonder if Lemon Bloom might have been more like her daughter when she was younger, and had simply been tempered over the years by experience and the wisdom that came with it. I smirked at the thought of Sky Flare acting like her mother, but quickly shook the mental image from my mind. “That would never happen.” I mused to myself. “What would never happen?” Sky Flare asked as she trotted into the room. I smirked at her and shook my head. “Oh nothing,” I said, “Just had a funny thought was all.” “Uh-huh.” she sighed. She came right up to me and sat down, a serious look on her face. “Are you actually serious Silver?” she whispered, “Celestia actually agreed to let you make your Guild?” I nodded. “Yes,” I whispered back, though I wasn’t sure why I was whispering, “And they want someone to teach whoever joins how to fight like the Canterlot military.” “Yeah, I hear they’re not a fan of you teaching me your way of fighting.” Sky Flare sighed. I nodded again apologetically. “They said they were going to send someone to stress the importance of what I taught you staying between us,” I said, “I guess they beat me to you?” “Big time,” she said, shaking her head, “First thing this morning, Celestia herself came to the door and asked me quite clearly not to teach or show anypony how to fight like you’ve taught me to. She made it clear I could still learn from you though, and use your teachings for self-defense and such, but under no circumstances was I allowed to pass it on.” I dropped my head low. “I’m sorry,” I said, “I hadn’t thought to run it by them when I first agreed to teach you, but at least I can still continue to teach you.” “Hey, I don’t mind it staying our little secret,” Sky Flare chuckled, “That just makes it an even bigger edge to have hidden up my feathers.” “What’s this about secrets I ‘ear?” Breezy chimed in as he entered the room, “Silver my boy, you wouldn’t be tryin’ ta charm my little Sky Flare with sweet words now were ya?” “Dad…” Sky Flare sighed. I smirked at him and shook my head. “Not this time, no.” “Good,” Breezy said with nod, “Cause those sorts a tactics won’t do a thing for ‘er. Ya gotta be more direct if you wanna tame-” “Dad!” Sky Flare barked, “We were talking about Celestia’s visit!” “Ah yes.” Breezy nodded. He sat down on a cushion nearby and regarded me closely. “Was a surprise ta be sure. But she made ‘er desires quite clear.” Before we could discuss Celestia’s visit further, Lemon Bloom came into the room. She had four plates in tow, held aloft with her magic. “Who’s ready for some pie?” she sang pleasantly. Without even having to reply, a plate of pie drifted towards each of us and waited before our noses for us to take the treats into our hooves. Sky Flare and Breezy did just that, while I, using the magic of my bracelet, took ahold of my plate and kept it floating before me. “Sky Flare mentioned you’d gotten your hooves on some magic a yer own,” Breezy commented, “But I didn’t quite believe it.” “Uh, yeah.” I said. I raised my bracelet up for him to see and continued, “Meadow Dawn gave me this bracelet. It lets me move things like a Unicorn can. Well, small things like a plate of pie anyways.” “That’s quite a gift.” Lemon Bloom said, admiring the golden relic on my arm.” “It’s a life saver,” I said, “Quite literally.” Breezy and Lemon Bloom looked at me curiously and I explained. “I’m sure Sky Flare’s told you all about my mishap in the Everfree by now?” Breezy smirked and nodded his head. “I’d tell ya ‘ow foolish that stunt was, but by the sounds a it, ya got that lesson loud an’ clear.” “I did,” I admitted, “But if it wasn’t for this bracelet here, I might not have made it out of there in one piece. It served as a light when I fell into that cave, and it lets me…” I let my words off as I realized I was about to let slip that it could now also control animals. I thought quickly and resumed my sentence as smoothly as I could. “It let me fend off the Timber Wolves.” “You’re lucky to be alive, Silver Wing,” Lemon Bloom stressed, “I don’t know what possessed you to enter that forest, but I’d keep yourself as far away from it as you can from now on.” I chuckled and scratched the back of my head nervously. No one seemed to like the Everfree except me, and that was becoming steadily more apparent the more ponies I talked to. “I would if I could,” I started sheepishly, “But I actually really like that forest. I can’t really explain it, but it reminds me of my home.” “If ya lived someplace even a little like that forest, it’s no wonder ya fight like you do,” Breezy chuckled, “Still. My little Lemon Bloom’s right. You should fly clear a that forest, no matter ‘ow much it reminds ya a home.” “Well,” I said, a little unsure how to say what I was about to, “That’s gonna be a bit of a problem… I kinda plan to setup the Guild there.” “You what!?” Sky Flare gasped. Breezy shared her vocalization, and Lemon Bloom looked like she was going to faint. “Why!?” Sky Flare started, “Where!? You nearly died their Silver!” “You remember that old Inn?” I asked her quickly. “You mean the one I found you half dead in!?” she growled, “Yeah, I remember it! You wanna use that dump as your Guild?!” “It’s nothing a little renovating can’t fix,” I tried, “And it’s the perfect spot. It’s near enough to the forests edge that our members can come and go without too much difficulty, but it’s far enough in that we won’t have to worry about random ponies stumbling across it.” “And what about the Timber Wolves Silver!?” Sky Flare barked, “You know, the things that almost killed you!?” “Oh they’re fine,” I said, waving a hoof at her, “I have that problem taken care of.” “And how’s that?” She asked almost angrily. “I… I can’t really say…” I said, “But trust me when I say, they will not bother anyone this time.” “Silver, ya can’t make peace with ‘em, if that’s yer plan,” Breezy cautioned, “They can’t be reasoned with, or trained.” “I really can’t give you a proper explanation,” I said, “But please, just trust me when I say that I know what I’m doing. The Timber wolves will not be a threat anymore.” “Ya haven’t given me reason not to take yer word when it’s given,” Breezy sighed, seeming to give in, “But I really ‘ope ya know what yer doin’…” “Yeah, well I want a real explanation.” Sky Flare stated. She sat up on her hind end and crossed her arms expectantly. I tried to think of a way around explaining how I could handle the Timber Wolves, but I couldn’t think of anything. I knew telling them that some shadow creature had given me extra magic that could control animals like the Timber Wolves wouldn’t go over very well, but I didn’t seem to have much of a choice at the moment. “Sky Flare…” Lemon Bloom cut in softly, “If Silver Wing says to trust him, I think he’s earned that.” “Oh, I trust him just fine,” Sky Flare snorted, “But I will not just sit by and let him get himself killed! He wants to go back into the Everfree, he’ll have to explain to me why he’s so confident this time! Otherwise, I’ll break his wings to keep him here!” I started to frown at her, then I saw the look on her face. It was the same look of concerned fear I had seen on her when she found me in the Inn after my accident. I immediately felt terrible and I knew that I couldn’t deny her this... Not if I wanted her help. With a sigh, I nodded and gave in. “Fine…” I started, then I got an idea. I didn’t have to explain everything that had happened, or even mention Perdias. I could blame it all on that crystal I found in the cave and leave it at that. After all, I had no idea how magic worked, right? “…But you all have to promise not to tell anyone about this, alright?” I stressed. Sky Flare, Breezy and Lemon Bloom nodded and I resumed. “You know how I was stuck in the caves under the Everfree for a while?” I said, “Well, I found something while I was down there.” “And what was that?” Sky Flare asked. “I don’t know how to explain it really, so bear with me.” I started, trying to find the right words. Whatever I said, I had to leave Perdias out of it. He could be my only hope at getting home, and I could not lose that chance. “While I was lost in those caves beneath the Everfree,” I went on, “I found something. Something magic, like my bracelet. It was a big crystal ball that kept the Timber Wolves and everything else except ponies away. I don’t know how or why, but when I got near it my bracelet somehow absorbed the magic from it. I didn’t realize it at the time, but when I finally found my way back into the forest, the Timber Wolves wouldn’t come anywhere near me.” “Ya found a crystal ball that keeps the Timber Wolves away?” Breezy repeated, “That’s not something I’ve ever ‘eard of… And that trinket a yers absorbed that power ya say?” He looked to Lemon Bloom for her thoughts. “I know of magic that can repel certain creatures,” she said thoughtfully, “But it’s no simple spell. And I’ve never heard of somepony crafting a magic item with such powers, not since the ancient times of Starswirl the Bearded. What’s more confusing though, is that you say your bracelet somehow gained this magic as well?” “I have no idea who made it,” I said, “But my bracelet can keep the Timber Wolves away now, that’s all I know…” “I take it ya didn’t tell the Princesses about this magic ball ya found?” Breezy checked, though he had a knowing look to him, “Or about this new trick you’ve picked up?” “I haven’t, no…” I said, “I know none of you understand, and you probably never will, but I like that forest. So much so that I want to live there while I’m here. And the magic I found in those caves will allow me to do just that. I don’t want anyone to take that away from me, so please… Don’t tell anyone and just let me do this?” It was a risk, telling them what I had, but the worst case is I’d not be able to make the Guild in the Everfree, and maybe lose my bracelet. I wouldn’t tell them about Perdias, or where the cave was, so I could still return there in the future if I ever had the need. “How do you even know your bracelet can still keep them away?” Sky Flare asked, “It’s been months. For all you know, your bracelet could have just picked up a temporary charge and be back to normal now.” “It’s not,” I said, “I’ve tested it since, on bugs and things.” “And it what, makes them run away from you?” Sky Flare asked. I nodded. “Pretty much, yeah.” I said. “That is dangerous magic Silver Wing,” Lemon Bloom warned, “Weak as it may be in your case, any magic that effects the will of another is forbidden to most…” She looked at me seriously, then sighed. “Are you positive has no effect on ponies, or animals other than the Timber Wolves?” “Not that I know of,” I said, “Are any you scared of me?” I chuckled and raised my forehooves into the air in a cheesy spooky gesture, hoping to make this matter out to be less serious than it was growing into. Lemon Bloom smiled, but she held a strong look of concern in her eyes. “No, I do not believe we are,” She mused, “But we are worried for you.” “I’ll be fine,” I said confidently, “Besides, if she’d be willing to join me, you can bet a stack of bits that Sky Flare would keep me in check.” Breezy chuckled, “Aye, that she would.” A silence fell over us for a few moments. Breezy and Lemon Bloom both had serious looks of thought on their faces, but Sky Flare seemed more lost, or uncertain. Eventually the silence became too much for me to stomach and I cleared my throat to try and break the tension. “So…?” I said softly, “How about it Sky? Now that you know why I’m confident we’d be safe in the Everfree, do you wanna help me run this thing, or no?” Sky Flare eyed me seriously for a moment, a look of uncertainty clear on her face. Slowly, she shook her head and sighed. “I don’t know…” she whispered. She glanced back at her parents, then looked back to me. "I am still the Advanced Flight Instructor for the Aerial Flight Academy Silver… The Princesses were kind enough to give me some time off to go around traveling with you, but if I do this, I'd have to quit the Academy… I don’t know if I'm ready to do that just yet..." “You ‘ave worked plenty ‘ard to get where ya are,” Breezy said nodding, “But if this gets off the ground, it could be just what you’ve always wanted ta be a part of.” Sky Flare looked to her father and tilted her head. “Is like the boy said,” Breezy stated, “You’d be able ta see the world first hoof and meet ponies from all over. You’d get the chance ta see an ‘ear things you’ve only ever read about, an’ who knows what else.” “The Everfree isn’t too far away either…” Lemon Bloom said thoughtfully, “So you would be near enough to visit whenever you wanted. Though I am still uncomfortable with the idea.” “I… I don’t know…” Sky Flare said quietly, “I need time to think about this.” “Take all the time you need Sky,” I said, “But don’t worry about me, alright? I can handle myself just fine. You do what you want to do, and I’ll be fine with whatever you choose, okay?” Sky Flare nodded and fell silent again, her gaze falling to her hooves. “I still do not like the idea of you residing in that forest, Silver Wing,” Lemon Bloom stressed, “But I understand you hold a deep love for it. Just… Be careful. Not all magic is as simple as it seems. You are not a Unicorn. You were never meant to have magic like this, and the fact that you do is both a great blessing and a tremendous responsibility. Be respectful of it, and do not use it carelessly. I have nothing more to say on that matter, do you understand?” I nodded respectfully and left it at that. Having listened to Celestia and Luna warn Dawn about the dangers magic possessed, I was already well informed on how careful I should be. However, I needed magic to get back to my world, and risky as it might be, I would use whatever dangerous magics or relics I had to if it was my only shot at getting home. I spent the rest of the day at Sky Flare’s place. We talked more about the Guild, where exactly within the Everfree it would be, and how I would go about getting everything set up. Breezy had shared his wisdom, and Lemon Bloom had chimed in with quite a few good ideas as well. Sky Flare had voiced her opinions here and there, but she’d been uncharacteristically quiet for most of the day. I knew she had a lot on her mind, but I also knew that she’d speak to me when she was ready. I was worried she’d want nothing to do with the Guild, but I wouldn’t force her to help me. If she really didn’t want to be a part of it, I’d accept that. She would be giving up a lot to help me and I could completely understand if she wanted to stay here. But I’d be lying if I said the thought of doing this without her didn’t bother me. Taking the setting of the sun as my cue to head back, I thanked Breezy and Lemon Bloom for dinner and left. Breezy had tried to convince me to spend the night and celebrate the founding of the Guild, but I had no desire to repeat the embarrassment of the last time I tried his wine. So, I managed to convince him to postpone the celebration until the Guild was officially started. I was pretty sure he saw through me, but he eventually agreed and sent me off with a good laugh instead. I had expected Sky Flare to walk with me back to the palace so we could talk about what was on her mind, but she said goodnight at the door and waved me off. I was a little surprised, but I took it to mean she just needed some more time to think on her own. Or she wanted to talk to her parents about things privately. I couldn’t be sure what her reasons were, but I’d wait until tomorrow to ask her if she planned to join me in this or not. Good hearted as they were, Breezy and Lemon Bloom did make it difficult for Sky Flare to be herself, and she was the only one I wanted to hear from when it came to her life. I took a bit longer than an hour to get back to the palace. After having spent the last several hours sitting around chatting, the soreness of my body was back in full and I didn’t dare try flying just yet. I heard a voice call to me as I neared the main entrance to the palace and looked up nervously. There was nothing there and I let out a relived sigh. The voice called again and I looked for its source. Off to my left, I found one of the many palace guards trotting over to greet me. “Silver Wing?” he said again as he reached me, “I have been asked to deliver you a message upon your return.” “A message?” I said, “From who?” “Gale Stormrider requests an audience with you at your earliest convenience.” The guard said simply. “Gale Stormrider?” I repeated tiredly. It took me a moment, but then I recalled him. He was the white Pegasus that was always helping Black Mane with his lessons. He’d been at both the race and the demonstration as well. “Why does he want to see me?” I asked. “I do not know, I was simply asked to deliver that message to you upon your return.” The guard stated. I sighed at his words. ‘I just want to go to bed…’ I thought tiredly. I nodded at him and looked around. “Alright,” I said, “Do you know where he is?” “At present, he should be at the Academy barracks,” the guard said, “Would you like me to show you to them?” “The Academy barracks?” I groaned looking up to the sky. The Ariel Academy was still floating nearby above Canterlot, but it wouldn’t be here for long. It would move to another city for a few months soon enough, but not tonight thankfully. “This is gonna sound bad,” I laughed weakly, “But I can’t make it there tonight. I don’t have the strength, so I’ll have to see him tomorrow.” “I understand,” the guard said, then he smiled, “Would you like me to request that Gale Stormrider come to your room instead?” It was then that I realized this particular guardspony was in fact a Pegasus like myself. ‘Wow I’m tired.’ I realized. Then I shook my head and nodded. “Sure, if you don’t mind anyways?” “It’s my job,” the guard chuckled, “I will deliver your request now, have a good evening.” “You too.” I said. I gave a half wave as the guard took flight and watched as he soared off towards the academy. I glanced back wearily at the palace before me and groaned. I had been eager to get back a moment ago, to fall face first into my warm soft bedding and pass out till someone woke me, but now it was just one big tease. I’d have to wait for Gale to come by now and talk about whatever he had to talk about before I could finally get some rest. I sighed heavily and continued on my way, trudging slowly towards my destination. I don’t know if I had been going incredibly slow, or if the messenger guard was a racer in his spare time, but almost as I closed my door behind me, there was a knock on it. I fought not to groan and just sat down on a cushion. I raised my left arm and opened the door with the magic of my bracelet instead of walking across the room again. A white Pegasus was standing in my doorway and he peered into my room unsurely for a moment before he saw me. “Good evening Silver Wing.” he said. He gave a polite bow of his head then asked, “May I come in?” I nodded and he trotted into my room. He moved to the close the door, but I beat him to it with my magic. I was tired, and I didn’t want to waste time with the little things right now. “I had heard a rumor that you had gained the ability to use magic, but I didn’t really believe it,” Gale said, slightly awed, “Until now at least.” “A friend of mine gave me a magic bracelet,” I explain quickly, “It’s not as strong or varied as a Unicorns magic, but it lets me move things around easy enough.” He trotted over to me and sat down, clearly eying my bracelet with interest. “That’s remarkable.” he said. “It’s a great help,” I admitted, “But I don’t think you wanted to see me just to see if a rumor was true or not. What’s up?” He seemed to be jarred back to the moment at that and cleared his throat. “You’re correct,” he said, “I apologize for disturbing you.” “You’re fine,” I half sighed, “Now what’s up?” I was too tired to deal with the overly polite nature of most of the ponies in the palace. I wanted to go to bed, so I just wanted this Pegasus to get on with things already. “Well…” he started, then paused, “I’m not sure how to say this…” “Words would be a good start.” I said, trying to joke, but I could tell I came off more sarcastically then I meant to. “Sorry, I’ve had a really long day.” “No need to apologize,” Gale said, “I’ll say this as directly as I can then. Starting tomorrow, I am going to be your subordinate and aid you in the operations of your Guild.” “What?” I stammered. “I have been asked by Princess Celestia to serve under you and aid you to the best of my abilities while you build up and run your Guild,” He said again, “As well as to observe that Equestrian laws are maintained, and that proper precautions and safety measures are practiced.” “They chose you for this?” I gasped, “But what about Black Mane? Aren’t you his assistant or something?” Gale laughed and shook his head. “Assistant? No,” he explained, “I was being trained to take over for Black Mane when he retired, but Princess Celestia asked me if I’d be interested in this instead. I’m no student though, I’m a fully trained member of Canterlots Aerial Military. Have been for years. I am good friends with Black Mane, which is why I was first selected to replace him. But, before that I used to lead patrols, scout out potential hot spots for trouble, and train troops in unified combat and tactics.” I was a genuinely surprised. I had thought that Gale was lower than Black Mane and just a simple assistant or something, but by the sounds of it, he was a great deal higher ranked and had even more responsibilities. “Wow, well,” I said feeling a little unsure how to respond, “I’m glad to have you, Gale.” “And I am glad to be a part of the team,” Gale said, “When do we begin? And who else is in our ranks?” “I plan to head out tomorrow… Afternoon,” I said, “And scout out the Guild grounds to compile a list of what we’ll need. I assume Celestia gave you all the details we came up with so far? Gale nodded. “I believe so,” he said, “You plan to repurpose an old Inn that lies within the Everfree Forest, near Ponyville, to serve as our base of operations.” “That’s right, yeah.” I said. I was glad he seemed alright with the idea of using the Everfree at least. I really didn’t think I had it in me right then to explain my reasoning for what, the fourth time now? “As for who’s in our ranks,” I went on, “At the moment, it’s just you and me. I had asked Sky Flare earlier, but I’m still waiting for her to get back to me on it.” “I understand,” Gale said, “If you need any advice, input, or just to run an idea by somepony, just let me know. I’m here to help.” ‘At least he seems helpful.’ I thought, rather relived. I’d been worried the Princesses would send someone like Malican to work with me, so this was a pleasant surprise. “Unless you have any questions for me, I will return tomorrow afternoon?” Gale said, rising to his feet. “No questions tonight,” I chuckled, “I may have some more tomorrow though.” “I will answer any you may pose.” Gale said. He returned to my door and bowed as he prepared to leave. “Until tomorrow,” he stated, “Have a good night, Sir.” “Just Silver’s fine,” I laughed, “This Guild isn’t going to be quite as formal as what you’re probably used to.” “Very well,” Gale said, “Goodnight, Silver.” He smiled, then closed the door behind himself. I sighed tiredly and barely managed to climb into my bed. I’d run over the events of today after a good nights rest, but for now, all I had on my mind was sleep, and by some miracle, it seemed like I was finally going to get it.