Twilight Sparkle woke up the next morning, bright and early. She had gotten about six hours of sleep, but felt wide awake and refreshed as soon as she opened her eyes. Smiling to herself, she stretched, hearing an audible popping noise in between her shoulder blades. Rolling out of bed, she shook herself experimentally, leaning forward and back to properly stretch her legs. She checked her clock, and was a bit surprised to see that it read half past eight in the morning. She had an entire hour and a half until the opening of the library. Pleased with this turn of events, she trotted downstairs into the kitchen. Spike wouldn't be up for another half an hour, so she decided to surprise him with getting the chores finished, as well as cooking breakfast. Humming to herself, she levitated brooms, feather dusters, and scrubbing brushes around the library at high velocity, each cleaning at twice the normal pace. She nodded, satisfied. Turning to the kitchen, she began to make her breakfast, summoning a large emerald for Spike. Soon enough the library was spick and span, Twilight was sitting in front of a large bowl of blueberry oatmeal, and all that remained was for Spike to crawl out of bed.
The door to the basement swung open silently, Spike being careful not to make extra noise. He looked around blearily, at first not realizing his chores for the morning were done. He blinked away the tangled cobwebs of sleep slowly, finally noticing Twilight's smiling face. "Good morning, Spike!" Twilight chirped. "Chores are done, and I made breakfast! Come on over and eat!"
"Um. You feeling ok, Twi?" Spike asked. "Not that this isn't a good thing, but you're normally not, y'know, a morning pony. Ever."
"Guess I just had a good night's sleep, is all." Twilight said, swallowing some oatmeal. "Don't really remember much about 'em, but I think I had some pretty good dreams too. What about you, Spike?" she asked, examining him. "You look like you slept horribly!"
Spike nodded. "Don't know why, but I kept waking up in the middle of the night. Could have sworn I heard voices, but every time I tried to listen, I got nothing." The purple dragon shook his head. "If it's all the same to you, Twi, I'd like to take a day off. We don't have any appointments today, do we?"
Twilight frowned in sympathy. "Nopony except for Morning Star around opening. Most everypony in town will be at work or in school today, so odds are good we won't have visitors until this afternoon. If you want to take breakfast down, you can go ahead and head back to bed, Spike. I'll even soundproof your room for you, if you like."
The drake grinned sheepishly. "That'd be nice, Twilight. Normally I'm not this out of it, but for some reason I'm really tired. Thanks." he said, grabbing his gem and heading downstairs.
Twilight waited until she heard his door close, and then cast her soundproofing spell. Checking the clock, she realized she had ten scant minutes to lock all the extra doors and clean up her breakfast mess. Moving at speeds Rainbow Dash would have been proud of, she bolted the rest of her oatmeal, burped once, and began to run around the library opening windows, scrubbing dishes and putting them away, locking her room up, and generally preparing her library for business. As the last bit of silverware returned to its drawer, she checked her clock. Two minutes left. Feeling irrationally proud of herself, she locked the basement up and turned to the front door. Opening it, she was much surprised to find Morning Star sitting on her porch, along with saddlebags full of charts, maps, and academia.
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"Good Morning, Ms. Sparkle!" the alabaster unicorn exclaimed. "You certainly are prompt. Did you sleep well?"
Twilight fought back a blush, replying "I did, actually. Are you ready to begin planning the expedition?"
"Indeed I am," he said, stepping into the library. He looked around at Twilight's admittedly impressive selection of reading material. "I must say, Ms. Sparkle, for such a small library you have an admirable collection of books. Is that the Codex Arcana?"
Twilight was surprised. Not many ponies knew about the Codex. It was relatively harmless, so she left it unshielded on a top shelf. The Codex Arcana was a four hundred year old book of common combat magics, mostly defensive shields. Her brother had purchased that copy for her, at no small expense, for her twenty-first birthday. "Yes, it is actually. A gift. How do you know about it?"
"I've come across it while working in the Archives. I must say, it's in beautiful condition" he said, picking it up gently. "And it's extremely useful, as well. It's helped me a few times in some of the deeper parts of the Archives."
Twilight levitated the saddlebags off of his back, flicking open the clasps and spreading some of the pages out. "I wasn't aware that the Archives were dangerous. Speaking of good condition, these maps are incredible! They've got to be some of the most accurate I've seen of the Everfree, and that's saying a lot." She looked them over, noticing a clearly plotted path through the woods to the Castle.
"Yes. I had to look over a lot of conflicting data before that map even resembled accurate." Morning Star said, setting the book down and standing beside her. "And the Archives aren't...dangerous, per say, more like well-guarded. Some ponies set up protection spells in the wings with the more arcane material, which interferes with the cataloging process considerably. We still can't get into a few of the wings, and even the Princesses are loath to break the enchantments, because they might damage or destroy the books."
"That makes sense." Twilight said. She felt a little more at ease around Morning Star, knowing they had common ground to start from. She could get to like this unicorn, with his love of magic and books. Taking note of the materials he had, she levitated over a few scrolls. Twilight grinned. "Shall we begin?"
Morning Star smiled back. "Let's."
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Spike awoke several hours later. He had been able to sleep better, though he was still hearing the odd voice every now and then. Unsure of the cause, he checked the door to see if Twilight's spell had held. The telltale glow of magic permeated the grain of the wood, so he knew the spell was in place. That settled it then. It was in his head. Making up his mind to ask Twi to make him a mild sleeping potion to help him rest tonight, he opened his door, and ascended the stairs from the basement to the door, which he unlocked. Stepping forward into the light, he blinked, partly to ward off the light and partly in surprise at what he saw.
The library table was covered, completely and two or three layers thick, in books and charts. Two unicorns were chattering excitedly over one of these charts, debating hotly over an obstacle they would have to pass. "I'm telling you, the river will still be swollen with snowmelt at this time of year!" Twilight exclaimed, jabbing a hoof at the map excitedly. "We'd have to cross the river at least three miles upstream if we don't want to either ditch our gear or risk getting swept away. Let's follow the mountain path south instead of descending to the river, and we can approach at a much narrower point!"
"Normally I'd agree with you, Ms. Sparkle. But I know for a fact that the cliffs in that area will be playing host to the stragglers from the dragon migration until a month from now! If we risk the crossing at the point where you and your friends did, we can be there a full day earlier. Wouldn't the reward outweigh the risk at this point?" Morning Star replied, indicating several different points.
"No. I've told you already; the last time I made that crossing was ten years ago, in the middle of summer. And the river was swollen to the point that we had to get a full on sea serpent to block it and give us a lift across." Morning Star lifted a hoof. "And don't you even suggest we find him and ask him again, because you know full well serpents are migratory." Twilight grumbled, meeting his eyes. Morning Star put the hoof down.
"Very well, then. Before we cross the river, we would be heading through some fairly heavy tree cover, correct?" Morning Star asked, gesturing at the map. "How should we get through that? We'd be coming up on the end of our first day, and I can't imagine we'd find our way through in the dark."
Twilight scratched her head. "Well, we could just- Hey, Spike! Feeling better?" she asked, only just now noticing him.
Spike grinned, walking across the floor to the library table. "Yes, but I think it's a psychosomatic thing, not physical. Could you make something to help me sleep tonight? I just want to catch up on rest, otherwise I wouldn't be asking."
Twilight nodded in assent, pulling a book of tinctures and tonics off of a nearby shelf. Flicking through the pages, she came across a sleeping drought she had had good results with in the past. “Let’s see. I'd need apple cider vinegar, honey, and some lavender. I have the milk and valerian tincture on hand, so it should just be a matter of heating them up and mixing." She glanced over her shoulder. "Oh, how rude of me, I haven't introduced you two formally! Spike, this is Morning Star, an archivist from Canterlot here to take some rubbings from the castle in the Everfree. Morning Star, this is Spike, my oldest friend, trusted companion, and number one assistant."
"Pleased to make your acquaintance, Spike." Morning Star said, bowing a bit in respect. "I must admit, I've never met a dragon before, and you seem like a shining example of the species."
Spike returned the bow. "Likewise. It's a rare thing to get a Canterlot unicorn who shows respect without fear when they meet me." He chuckled at the expression on Morning Star's face. "I assure you, it is a pleasure. You're a brave pony, Morning Star. Not many would be willing to venture into the Everfree with only a guide. The smallest party I've heard of is six!"
Morning Star smiled confidently. "Well, between Twilight and I, I think we have enough magic to handle anything the forest can throw at us."
Twilight nodded assent. "He knows his stuff, Spike. Some stuff I've never seen before, that'll really come in handy when we're out there. All sorts of offensive and defensive spells, survival skills, a lot of really cool knowledge."
Morning Star flushed in embarrassment. "Please. You're the most talented unicorn I've ever seen, Ms. Sparkle. I can see why Celestia recommended you; you are certainly a very competent spellcaster."
It was Twilight's turn to blush, but before she could open her mouth to speak, Spike cut in. "So, what are you heading out to the castle for? A rubbing of what, exactly? Anything in particular, or something specific?"
The white unicorn levitated a book from the table. "I'm trying to find a throne. The etchings around the dais are said to be the first words carved in High Equestrian, and they could be instrumental in translating some of the scrolls we've found from that era. Supposedly, the throne was torn asunder by the terrible struggle between Celestia and Nightmare Moon, but the dais should remain intact. If the throne is in large pieces, or even better intact, I'd love to get rubbings of that as well. It was said to be a beautiful old thing, wonderfully carved. This would undoubtedly be my greatest contribution to the Archives, unlike the musty old histories or biographies most Archivists tend to write as their legacies."
Spike peered at the map closely. "That sounds interesting. Twilight, you should ford where you crossed last time. I remember seeing a big tree had fallen across the river last summer when I was flying over, and it shouldn't be rotten yet, perfect as a bridge if you're careful. I think the old rope bridge near the castle is finally out, though. The same storm that knocked over the tree took it out. You'd need to find a solution to that."
Twilight looked at him curiously. Something was wrong, she could tell. "Alrighty then. I trust you, Spike. We'll cross at the same point. Anything else?"
Spike shook his head. "Nope. Moon will be waxing to half full. Enough light to get by, but I'd still recommend setting up camp outside of the deep forest, no sense on trying to cut through in the night. You could push all the way to the castle the next day, try the river in the morning instead of the afternoon or evening when you're tired. Speaking of, shouldn't we be getting ready for the after school rush?"
Morning Star raised a hoof. "Please. I wouldn't want to intrude, especially after you've been putting up with me all day. Shall we pick up tomorrow at the same time, Ms. Sparkle?"
"Yes. Open at ten, same as today. We should have plenty of time to finalize a route and start talking about a way back." she replied, walking him to the door.
Spike waved goodbye. "Be seeing you tomorrow, then! Good meeting you!" the drake called, turning to the kitchen.
The unicorn waved back. "Likewise!" he replied, arranging his saddlebags and fastening the buckle. With a final goodbye from Twilight, he headed for the door, and was soon gone.
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The purple mare shut the door and turned to Spike. She raised an eyebrow, questioning. Spike headed downstairs, indicating with a claw for her to follow. She did so, shutting the door behind her. Soon enough, they were seated on Spike's bed, with another door closed. "Spill.” Twilight said, gesturing for Spike to speak.
"Something's off about that guy. His story doesn't check out. An archivist who knows combat magic? Plus there's no way he's from Canterlot. He reminds me more of a soldier than a scholar or aristocrat. And Celestia never recommended you to him. I smelled that lie as soon as he said it."
Twilight nodded. "He does know a lot of unusual spells for an Archivist. Although he did say that there were protective spells around some books that needed unusual spell casting techniques to deal with, which I can believe. And he doesn't strike me as rich or snooty. He is one of the more intelligent ponies I've met, and he is fairly organized. As for the lie, are you sure? He seemed to know an awful lot about his job if he wasn't really an Archivist."
Spike nodded. "The nose knows, I've said it a million times. There's an easy way to find out, though. Send a quick note to Princess Celestia, if she did send him, then she'll be able to vouch for him. If not, she can notify the Guard to come and get him."
Twilight nodded agreement. Grabbing a nearby quill and paper, she scratched out a quick note. Nothing too accusatory, she didn't want to offend her. Let's see... "Dear Princess Celestia. I am glad you saw fit to entrust me with the guidance of your Archivist in Training, Morning Star. His expedition into the Everfree sounds wonderfully exciting, and I am truly looking forward to it. I will be sure to send along my report on the trip soon after our return. Your Faithful Student, Twilight Sparkle." She handed it off to Spike, who exhaled slightly, bathing it in green flame. "Now all we need to do is wait on a reply!" Twilight said, settling down.
It was not long until a slight belch revealed a puff of smoke, which coiled in on itself to reveal a scroll. Twilight seized it before it hit the floor, and began reading it aloud, the flowing and elegant script of her teacher a familiar sight. “My Dear Twilight Sparkle: I am glad Morning Star made it to Ponyville without incident. He shows a lot of promise at the Academy and at the Archives. His teachers and fellow Archivists speak very highly of him. I have had the opportunity to meet the young colt, and he reminds me quite a bit of you! Please let me know how the trip goes, as I am always eager to hear of your findings. Best Wishes, Princess Celestia, Dio Solaris ex Equestria."
Spike frowned. "Huh. I could have been sure he was lying. Either way, I'd be careful Twi. You and him alone in the woods over three nights sounds like a bad idea. Don't let your guard down in there, and keep a sharp eye out."
"I agree." Twilight said, trotting back up the stairs to the library. "I will need to trust him quite a bit, but there's no reason I can't be cautious about this." She swung the door open wide, ready to help out the high schoolers who would shortly be hitting the library en masse. "All the same, I kind of do like him. He's nice." she said, heading upstairs, Spike following.
"I agree, he seems nice enough. Just be careful, ok?" the dragon said, grabbing a handful of bits and heading out to pick up the ingredients.
"Will do, Spike." Twilight said, putting the rest of the books and scrolls away. Soon she was alone in the library, Spike having left. She wasn't sure how to react to this. Spike may have been correct, he may have been lying. No, scratch that. His nose had never been wrong before, and he was an excellent judge of character. But Princess Celestia had personally vouched for Morning Star's character, as well as confirming his story, in her own hoofwriting. So...they were both right? Both wrong? Twilight shook her head. No, they couldn't both be wrong. And neither could they both be right. So, the question remained. Who should Twilight trust?
She thought, furrowing her brow. Normally she would be inclined to believe Spike. He was her oldest friend and a trusted companion. Regardless, Princess Celestia too was above reproach in Twilight's eyes. She was immortal, perfect in every way. No deception was safe from her, and she was the one who had taken Twilight under her wing as an apprentice. Her gut told her to go with Spike's analysis. But she realized logically that Spike may in fact be wrong. It was probably more likely than Morning Star pulling the wool over the eyes of Princess Celestia herself. She eventually came to the conclusion that she may as well trust Morning Star for now. After all, he had been nothing short of wonderful today. Pleased with the conclusion, Twilight prepared to receive the afternoon rush due any minute now.
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Princess Celestia lowered her wings, allowing her magic to fade from her horn. Twilight had come very close to discovering the reason behind Morning Star's arrival. Very close indeed. Though Celestia stopped short of true omniscience, she could tell Twilight was considering Spike's words very carefully. It had taken a considerable amount of skill to use the Catalysts to nudge Twilight away from the wrong kind of questions. Sighing, she removed her crown, boots, and regalia. Ringing the bell for her bath to be run, she allowed herself the small luxury of a tired groan, hardly low enough to be heard. She would need to let her Candidate know to be more careful with his information, and try harder to move Twilight toward him by the end of the week. Stretching her neck, she headed for the bathroom, inwardly composing the instructions to be sent to Morning Star. She had stretched herself to her limits preparing him, and once they were in the Everfree, he was on his own. Celestia nodded to her attendants, sinking into the bath and allowing her servants forward to tend to her. There was just so much to do. So much...