//------------------------------// // VIII: Nasha // Story: Princess of Infinity // by Echo 27 //------------------------------// The vastness around her as they were relinquished from the gateway’s grasp was the first thing that apparent to her senses, the gateway having delivered them into a great hallway of white and grey marble surrounded by columns. A place as resplendent and seemingly holy as the very entryway into the Palace itself had been, though with no great guardian to forestall them. Ford surveyed the place with a look of doubt, their last years within a young world free of such trappings, this new place more stately and luxurious than their time with the Colony had ever been. “This is… different,” was the best he could muster. “It is so empty,” Celestia murmured, taking in the solitude of their surroundings, the gateway left squarely in the center of the immense hall. “It feels like a tabernacle of sorts. Or a vault.” “What sort of people could build such a thing around it? Surely the gateway could not be physically transported here.” Ford mused. “If it was allowed to be, yes, I do,” she answered, becoming more and more disquieted the longer they remained within the place. “Let us leave. The silence of this place makes my skin crawl.” “Silence has never bothered you before…” “Silence is a void to be filled by nature. This is unnatural.” They walked out from their place beside the gateway and further on, coming to the end of the hall where a dark brown door awaited them, held fast despite their pressing against it. Ford slammed hard against it with his strong frame and still it did not yield. “Should we destroy it?” he asked. “I certainly could,” she replied, pulling him behind her and releasing an explosive column of flame from her fingers that set to the wood and ate it away, scorching through the thick boards in a matter of seconds and turning it into a cloud of ash and smoke. “That was messier than I’d hoped,” Ford remarked, doing his best to wave the smoke away. “Surely you can make a smokeless fire, couldn’t you?” “I’ll certainly try to keep subtlety in mind the next time I set a door on fire,” she replied drily. “We have been married for years now, Tia, and yet you still can’t tell when I am teasing you,” he said with a chuckle. “You don’t have that much pride in you to forget it, do you?” She was about to reply that she had not heard the humor in his voice when a rush of commotion came from the other side of the smoke, and a team of guards in gleaming crimson armor rushed into the room, surrounding the two in a matter of seconds- Ford snarled, the thick staff in hand not enough to deal damage against well-armed foes that now opposed him- Celestia raised her hands yet again, a dim pulsing emitting from her palms- “Citizens! No one is allowed to trespass into this place! The Royal Gateway is off-limits to all but the King!” one of them declared. “We did not trespass intentionally,” Celestia said, immediately looking for a way to calm the dispute. “We are travelers, and have passed through the gateway to come here.” “You… passed through it?” “Look about you, soldier,” Ford grunted, gesturing to the entire room. “There is no other entry into this place. From where else would we come?” The soldier who had spoken, likely the guard commander, scanned the place quickly before settling his gaze back upon the two, now wide-eyed and fearful at the sight of them. “It cannot be!” he gasped. “We thought the gateway would never open!” The group of warriors gathered about them muttered to themselves, slowly backing away from the interlopers with their weapons lowered. Celestia hoped this was a good sign. “Someone go get Captain Barraway- quickly now! Tell him the gateway has opened!” the soldier cried. “The rest of you, bring the choice food and wine, our travelers will need the best we have!” Turning to the two once more, he opened his arms in a welcoming gesture. “Dear travelers, forgive us for our opening hostility! We believed you to be foolhardy citizens of our dear city trying to defile this place- never would we have believed we would find travelers at last!” Celestia was more taken aback by such actions than she would have been if met with violence. This sudden welcome, with promises of rich fare to accompany it, was a heraldry she had not experienced since her time in the crown and the strange eagerness about it unnerved her. Her eyes met the commander’s for a brief second and she wondered if she did not see a shadow there. “My lady- my lord- please, follow me,” a man beckoned, a royally dressed fellow who seemed to be the leader of them all- the aforementioned Captain Barraway, if they had to guess. “It is an honor to have you among us, travelers from afar. The Sanctum is no place for long conversation, and I would be glad for you to see the sun.” Ford and Celestia were escorted from the Sanctum, led by Barraway and his team of guards. Celestia felt their eyes upon her with every movement she made, a hungering aura about them that she could not quite grasp. Ford was also left perturbed, but more by the sudden hustle and lordliness in which they were received, rather than sights unseen that his beloved continued to sense. After a lengthy walk through the halls, the main doors were opened and before them lay a magnificent city of stone, with a clear blue sky above them that teemed with flocks of birds. Throngs of people packed the streets alongside livestock, farmers and traders displaying their wares while strong soldiers walked the streets in peace. Children played at their mother’s feet while the women spoke amongst one another. The sounds of song could be heard as minstrels played tunes for the crowds, hoping for an offering of gold or goods. The rich and poor, all mingled together in one teeming host. As the guards came to their positions, Celestia suddenly found herself and Ford were at the front of the group beside Captain Barraway, seemingly revealed to the populace. Lively pairs of eyes caught sight of them and trails of whispers began to trickle through the crowd, one by one each soul present coming to notice the presence of these unusual travelers. “Well, we certainly have no chance to be discreet,” Ford said. Celestia found herself wishing there was somewhere she could hide away, the incredible scrutiny that now rested upon her nigh unbearable. Their gazes were almost predatory. “My friends! People of the city of Moqesh!” Captain Barraway cried out, his deep voice booming over the multitudes and echoing across stones, “at long last, our King’s hopes have been answered- travelers have come from beyond the Holy Gateway!” The cheers that erupted from the crowd was deafening, and Celestia soon found she and Ford surrounded as seemingly every person in the city wanted to see them, speak to them, feel their hand in theirs. Children gathered around her with the strange, timid eagerness of children as they reached out discreetly only to rush away giggling. A gaggle of young women came to Ford’s side, looking upon him with such lavishness that the affection was obvious to anyone present- and a source of embarrassment for Ford, who gave his wife a look of apology to help calm her frustration. “My lady, it is good that you are here,” Barraway. “As Captain of the Sanctum, I would be honored if you would allow us to celebrate your arrival. Tonight we shall have a great feast in your honor, and all the city shall be alight in glory!” “If- please, sir, we do not mean to impress on you so,” she replied, trying to find a way to flee the conversation. “We merely seek the next gateway. Wherever we have traveled, it has always had a twin. If you would be kind and help us to find it-” “Yes, of course! We have known its location for many years now! We shall take you there tomorrow so you may see it,” Barraway replied, his gregariousness not yet having departed. “But I believe there is more to it than you yet know, dear lady. I would gladly tell you more at the feast, if you would but let me.” “A moment, please,” she said, backing away and dragging Ford away from his growing crowd of admirers. “Your thoughts on this?” “Sure. My thoughts: this is really weird!” Ford said, laughing with obvious discomfort. “They’re acting like we’ve saved them from something and we haven’t even done anything but show up!” “He’s speaking like there’s a problem with the next gateway. Perhaps it isn’t open?” “It took the last one three years. It’s possible. I guess all we can do is stay and find out more for now.” It wasn’t the answer she wanted, hoping that Ford’s tactical prowess would find them an escape from this strange overfriendliness. Turning back to Barraway with as pleasant a smile as she could conjure up, Celestia said, “We would be honored to join you.” The wellspring of goodwill continued with them as the hours went by, she and Ford brought to a luxurious estate overlooking the city where the two communed in solitude, occasionally looking down into the streets where the festivities were being prepared. The view was exquisite, the entirety of the city spread out before them; winding streets of cobblestone weaved in and out of tall homes and mansions, with canals running this way and that as boats whisked across the surface, filled with goods or people. All across it all was a great chatter, an eager excitement that was palpable in the air. “Celestia, please! Relax for a moment, I beg you,” Ford said, pulling his wife back from the balcony and beckoning her to the immense bed that lay there for their use, draped in sheets of gold and crimson fabric that seemed more akin to gold. “I know you find this place strange, but constantly worrying about it all will do nothing.” “Am I a fool for being on guard, Ford?” she asked, doubts mingling with her anxiety. “They have been nothing but welcoming to us, yet I remain so distrustful. Am I wrong to do so?” “I believe it is called caution. And you have it because their actions have been strange,” he replied. “They certainly think we are important- but for what reason?” “Either some fell thing they hope we can save them from,” Celestia mused, “or… or they take us as some sort of sign of good tidings. Perhaps something else, but I do not know.” “Which would you prefer?” “Neither. I wish to be through the gateway already,” she said tersely. “Surely we would know if they meant us harm?” Ford replied. “I see no lie in their eyes.” Neither did she, but her uneasiness was not allayed. The opulence of this place was wondrous, beautiful, perfect and pristine- yet all too much. This is more than opulence, really, she thought, more like decadence. Wealth gone to spoil. “Come. We should simply relax for now. It is all we can do,” Ford said, coming to rest somewhere behind her, his fingers beginning to run through her hair ever so gently. The sensation, a pleasure strengthened by fond memory, was welcome and helped soothe her fears away as Ford continued his work. “How long has it been since we were like this?” Celestia asked. “Like what?” “No struggle, no travel, no leading. Just… together. I miss it,” she said, her voice becoming small. “… Yeah. I do, too,” Ford replied. “Tia, when we were with the Colony, I kept thinking every now and then…” “A dangerous hobby.” “Certainly. But when we’d be alone, I’d find myself just sitting there and thinking to myself, ‘I don’t want to do this forever.’” She felt confused. “Do what?” “I- I don’t know. Fight. Lead. The longer we’ve done this, Tia, the more I just…” he sighed, continuing on in his work with her hair for a time before speaking again. “To have you with me is all I have wanted, and the rest seems to just get in the way. I have no desire for leadership or warfare any longer, Tia. I’m ready for a reason to put it all down.” Celestia, a person who had lived long enough to truly see and do just about everything, found herself unable to respond. Their goal had been to defeat Sombra and return home, take her place as ruler of Equestria again and have Ford there beside her. She hadn’t considered the possibility that Ford, in their many years of hunting, had found himself longing for other things. What would happen if they succeeded and returned home with the Philosopher’s Stone in hand? They were married, certainly, but what role would he want to play in the world as an immortal being? What role would she want in all of it? It was entirely possible that the flow of time outside the Palace was much faster than within. A day here could be years back home? What world are we going to see when we finally leave this place behind? She wondered. And what part will be play in it all? The evening fell and the city was lit with hundreds of thousands of lights, from flickering candles on the windowsills of houses to glowing streetlamps alongside cobblestone roads. There was a knock on the door to their quarters and a young woman dressed in attendant’s clothes appeared, carrying a pair of packages in her hands. “A gift from the Sanctum Captain, my lady,” she said, though her eyes were fixated on Ford with a longing gaze that was difficult to miss. “What are these?” Ford asked, feeling the smaller in hand and testing its weight. “Garments for tonight’s festival, my lord,” the attendant replied. “Captain Barraway wished for you both to have proper attire for the occasion.” “They’re really excited about us showing up, aren’t they?” Ford remarked once the girl had left. “You’d think we’d have just saved the city by the way they’re acting.” “I don’t like it. Her, too.” “She was just doing her job, Tia.” “Have you not noticed? Every woman we’ve come across hardly dares to look at me, yet stares at you so hungrily that I’m surprised one hasn’t tried to pull you away yet. They seem infatuated with you.” Ford, true to fashion, merely shrugged. “They need a hobby. Let’s take a look at what she brought.” A few minutes later and they found themselves wonderfully well-dressed, though far out of their element. Their years on sea and shore had left their regular clothes rather ragged, and to wear such finery was something they were no longer accustomed to. Ford found himself in a splendidly crafted navy-blue soldier’s uniform, the sides of the pant legs lined with bright gold thread that shimmered in the lamplight. “It looks dashing on you, really,” Celestia said, taking in his appearance and feeling somewhat light in her chest. “Perhaps a bit… much, but you do look wonderful.” “I’ve never seen a uniform like this before,” Ford said hesitantly, eyeing the uniform with a look that suggested discomfort. “Even your royal guard uniforms weren’t this well-made. What kind of money goes through this city?” “Looking at the dress they gave me,” Celestia remarked, laying it across the bed for presentation, “I would say a lot.” “Whoa.” It was a beautiful thing to behold, a perfect match for Celestia’s fair skin. A beautifully crafted ballgown colored a deep gold, with what seemed to be small diamonds stitched into the threads just below the neckline, with a faint tinge of white further beneath. In the lights that now adorned the city, Celestia would be positively radiant. “You’ll be the envy of every woman in and out of the Palace,” Ford said. “It’s beautiful, really, but- Ford, not even my royal attire was as exquisite as this! This is too much for me and I was a Princess. Perhaps it is common for these people, but I have no love for it. This is not part of me.” “Well… they gave it to us as a gift. Just this once, I guess.” Not long after, a carriage arrived to bring them to the city center, the two arriving just as the festivities were beginning. A great cheer arose at the sight of them and the crowd applauded as though they had just returned from battle as conquerors. At the foot of the Sanctum steps lay a great table adorned with the finest food that they had seen in years and, despite their disconcertion at the gaudiness of the affair, the pleasant scent of the meal wafted over to them and set their stomach rumbling. “My friends! Please, come take thine place! Captain Barraway called, gesturing for them to join him at the table in what looked to be the prime seats. “We are glad to see you again- and in such finery! Truly you are magnificent.” He’s laying it on thick, Celestia thought to herself. Forcing a smile on her face, she took her husband’s arm and walked through the crowd that parted before them, knowing it would be a long night. The celebration was magnificent in every way, from pristine food to fine wine and magnificent entertainment. Fresh vegetables and finely roasted meat, drink that tasted heavenly, singers and dancers and entertainers that were as wonderful and glorious as any Celestia had ever seen in all her years upon the earth. Yet, despite it all, she found her mind drifting, wishing for a chance to escape and hide away with Ford. Her misgivings had only grown since they had arrived. “Captain Barraway, you mentioned earlier that you knew where the sister gateway was upon this world,” she remarked, turning to the soldier as Ford engaged with a nobleman sitting beside him. “Would you be able to take us to it as quickly as possible?” “Yes, it is within this city’s very walls!” the man declared. “I would be glad to take you to it- tomorrow even, if you wish it! However, if your goal is to travel through its doors, I am afraid that may not be possible.” “And why is that?” she hoped her voice had remained pleasant rather than sounding like a challenge. “Well, my lady, it is because its doors are not open,” Barraway answered. “We have watched it for many long years and not once has it shown signs of life. It has confused the King greatly, for he always knew its purpose.” “Your King knows the purpose of the gateway?” Celestia inquired. An odd thing, considering that none had so far. “Yes, indeed! Our King is very wise, and understood their meaning quite quickly! That is why you arrival is so momentous. For now, after all these years, we may fully unlock its secrets! The King will surely wish for you to see it.” “Your King knows of us?” she asked. Steady now… Barraway looked upon her and his brown eyes seemed to shift, as though a shadow grew thicker within them before settling. “He always knew travelers would come. He has awaited it for many years now! And now you are here! Messengers have already been sent to him so that he may know of your arrival!” “Well, I am certain we would be pleased to meet him,” Celestia said, “though if the gateway is open, my husband and I must continue on our journey. We will have no time to wait.” “Oh, but you must, my lady!” Barraway protested. “The King is not far, only a fortnight from the city’s walls! The gateway will likely not open until his arrival!” “But if it does, then we shall move on. Our task is important, I am afraid.” “I am certain it is! But please know, dear lady, the King must meet you! He has desired it for so long, it will be joy to him to see you at last!” Celestia stole a look at her husband, watching him as he continued his conversation with the drunken nobleman. His countenance was pleasant, at ease and welcoming to all who graced him- including several beautiful young women. However, as she looked upon him, she felt his eyes find her and saw the unease within them. He had been listening intently and not missed a word. One day became a week. A week became two. Then three, then four- and still, despite their requests and pleas for movement, still the people of the city of Moqesh would not aid them in their journey on through their realm, continuously insisting they remain a day longer, a little longer, just a little while longer. Though they city remained hospitable to them –unnaturally so, by Celestia’s perception- and seemed overly eager to tend to their every need, they still refused to grant them passage to the gateway, or even divulge its location. No matter how they pressed, or what wit was used to make it slip out, those they spoke to seemed to only tighten their lips and increase their hospitality. “All in service of you and the King,” was their sole reply. Celestia, already ill at ease since their first night in the city, found herself consistently retreating into relative safety of their quarters, spending her many hours meditating or simply relaxing away from prying eyes, of which there were far too many. Whenever she ventured out into the streets below she felt the gaze of every person around upon her, a sensation strong enough to make her flesh crawl. She and Ford were under guard. Hospitably so, but most certainly under guard; for what purpose she could not fathom. As their fourth week slowly became the fifth, she found that she could no longer stand the wait. “And what do you want to do?” Ford asked of her when she finally brought it up. “I find this place as unsettling as you do, I really do. But if we act against them then they’ll actually have a reason to be hostile towards us.” “They are already against us. I want to make a move before we are put in a corner,” Celestia countered. “They’re not wicked. You look them in the eye the same as I do; no matter what strangeness they seem to possess, you see full well there’s no lie in their eyes.” “I know they are not lying, at least they believe they are not lying. It only adds to the eeriness of it all!” she replied. “How can these people contradict themselves so easily, be so insistent upon keeping us away and yet say they mean us no harm- and then believe it? They’re more like puppets on a string than people any longer.” “Then they’re still not wicked. They’re odd, yes, and it certainly seems like the king is idolized but they’re not evil.” “They watch us. Constantly! We are always under surveillance, Ford. Whether it be their eyes upon me, or all the women watching you!” Ford raised himself from his resting place atop the bed and looked at her with exasperation. “Is that the reason why you’re so uneasy? Is this actual fear or is this just jealousy again like with that laundry maid from way back?” “It is not!” she said hotly. “I am not shocked if someone finds you attractive, but the idea that every woman in an entire city seems unable to tear their eyes away from you is extremely bizzare! They look as though they wish to drag you away!” “This is jealousy-” “They watch me as well, Ford! They look at me as though I am some sort of captive beast running free in the streets, but they look at you like they see an opportunity! They want you for something and I won’t let them have you!” Ford joined her on the balcony, looking down on the busy streets below. The constant crowd of life and activity still remained foreign to him after their years with the Colony. So many people in such a small space, more than he had seen since they had left Canterlot behind more than a decade ago. He knew Celestia sensed danger in these streets, but he could not find it. Rather than be fearful of these people, they instead had gained his pity. They felt autonomous, void of the unique spirit of self that all Man should possess, their personalities more akin to a mask than a true identity. “We cannot wait any longer. The longer we wait, the more strength Sombra gains and the further he flies from us,” she said. “We have to find the gateway ourselves.” “They keep too much of a watch on you- if we made a run for it then a fight would break out. I’d rather not see it come to bloodshed.” It was true, but the words rankled her. “Stop trying to shoot down every idea I have! I am trying to keep us moving forward the very best I can, to keep us focused!” “Alright, alright!” Ford surrendered. “I’m not trying to stall you, I swear. I just don’t want to see these people get hurt. I’ll do whatever you ask, I promise. Just… these people aren’t your enemy, so let’s not hurt them if we can help it.” “If I was to be a distraction to them, could you make your way through the city and find the gateway?” she asked. “I would do my best to give you cover so that they would not suspect you.” “I can certainly try,” he answered. “But no matter how well I navigate through the crowd, I’ll eventually be spotted. It is inevitable.” “And we have no way of signaling one another,” Celestia murmured unhappily, “you will have to be fast.” “I am not young any longer, but I can still be that,” Ford said. “Where will I be when I come to find you?” “The Sanctum. The guard and the priesthood there have been asking me to tell them stories of our journeys in the gateway. It ought to be enough to keep the most important people in the city distracted.” “Right in the heart of the city- are you sure this is a good idea?” “Not at all, but it is the best we have.” Morning came, a weak sun rising through the morning mists that weaved through the streets like grey ribbons. Celestia had made arrangements with Captain Barraway to visit the Sanctum in just a few hours with Ford as her escort. Instead, she would arrive alone with tales that Ford had fallen ill in the night and required rest, while Ford would begin his journey through Moqesh in search of the gateway in secret. Their likelihood of success was dim, but to wait any longer was excruciating. “The rear entrance into the villa should be open at this hour. Rumilla will be working at cleaning the kitchens and lower levels by now,” Celestia whispered to Ford as he donned a cloak and hood, embroidered with the mark of the city across the neckline. “Wait a few minutes for me to depart before continuing on.” “I’ll take the southwest district first. Fewer people from what we can see,” Ford replied. “I’ll move along the outskirts if I can, working my way up north until I find it. Once I do, I’ll make my way to you. And from there…” “From there we run,” she said, granting him a swift kiss. “Be safe.” “I think we are out of time for that,” he replied. Celestia felt her misgivings grow as she walked out into the villa courtyard and into the streets, immediately feeling dozens of eyes fall upon her. Her displeasure about this place was strong, but no matter what she would eventually face, it would not be enough to topple her. But Ford? Finite, fragile, a mere mortal. Brave and determined to the point of relentless, but only a common man, with no power of dark or starlight as his aid. She had come to this place in the hopes of granting him eternity. She hoped that she would not have to face an eternity without him. Ford’s pace slowed, trying his best to match it against the rhythm and motion of those around him. He had done everything he could to make his outer garments lose their Equestrian luster and mimic the extravagance of Moqesh in the hopes he would blend in. Now out amongst them, he knew it would take more than simple appearance to fool these people. Even now, with his face kept hidden by his hood, he could still sense the curious gaze of passerby lingering upon him. He slowed his breathing, matched their pace, everything he could think of to simply disappear into the crowd; it was only a matter of time before he failed. Keep moving south, stick to the outskirts. The further away from the center of the city, the safer you become. It was a mantra in his head repeated over and over, an attainable goal he could easily reach- at least he hoped. He did not dare look back for followers, lest his fear give himself away. The first hour crawled by, his sensed kept heightened by anxiety. But as time passed and the more he pushed southward, the crowds began to disperse and his movements more greatly copied their own. As the second hour came, he had little luck in finding their goal, but had become one of the city’s own. The morning faded and became midday, the sun rising and becoming strong as the heart permeated through stone and shadow, settling upon Ford like a thick blanket. He pushed the sweat from his brow and continued on. It was time to move north. As Ford crept on, a tingling sensation on his neck grew strong, and despite his efforts against it, he looked back into the nearly empty street behind him to find little but children playing in the streets and an old woman guiding a donkey along towards the city market. Cursing himself, he turned ahead and continued on. If someone had been watching him, they would be on guard now. The west district of the city opened up to him, less populated and quieter as the buildings became more ramshackle and simple. The distinct difference between it and the rest of the city was obvious, with no real sign of upkeep that the rest of Moqesh so clearly possessed. He felt an eager sense of expectation. Something was here. He pushed in deeper. A scrabble of stone and he ducked into an alley. He had heard leather against loose rock, perhaps someone’s boot or sandal. I’ve been put in a corner. Can’t go back out, can’t go out the other end. Ford considered the derelict building in front of him, seemingly empty. Maybe if I push through… Ford’s movements were slow and quiet, borne out of years of training and real-world experience. Moving through the empty home as quickly as he could, his feet pressing gently against the broken brick and mortar with little sound. As he reached the threshold, he gave a sigh of relief and pushed on, taking note that conditions all around him were continuing to deteriorate. A fetid smell was in the air, one that he recognized as rot. Ford followed the trail of decay further and further west, watching as buildings continued to fester the deeper he went. His pulsed quickened, wondering what he would find. A weapon? A secret army? An oppressed people? He saw a clearing through an alleyway and he cut through it, racing out to meet it. A crater lay before him, a cleanly cut hole in the ground with a sharp edge that kept him from descending down a straight face of rubble. It was massive, larger than the Sanctum could have ever hoped to be, with a small sound of moving silt that spoke to its continuous, persistent growth. And down, right in the center of the crater itself, was the distinct wrought-iron silhouette of the gateway. Ford gazed down the edge, trying to estimate its depth. Ten meters? Twenty? It would be fatal drop if he tried to jump, but with Celestia’s help it was climbable- A Crack! And he leapt back, watching as the nearby building began to shatter into pieces, falling down into the hollow before turning into dust. He looked about the rim of the crater, watching the process slowly repeat itself everywhere he looked. “It- it’s eating through the soil,” he whispered. “The gateway is rejecting it.” If Celestia’s beliefs regarding the gateway were true –that they did indeed possess some sense and will- then something in this place was enough for it to become a threat to the native soil. It was enough to convince him something was wrong. Ford donned his hood once more and turned to leave, trying to orient himself. He needed to find Celestia and make a break for it. If the gateway was right, then something in this place was wicked enough to grant them real danger- “Not lost, are you dear?” the voice was sweet and warm, but so distinct in the silence that Ford couldn’t help but jump. He turned about to find a beautiful young woman standing behind him, sweet-faced and clearly worried. “Heaven above- you scared me half to death!” he gasped. “And you scared me!” she replied, taking his arm and pulling him away from the crater. “You’re in such a dangerous place here, we do not approach it lest we have the blessing of our King! You should not be here without him.” “I believe you are right, thank you,” Ford said, trying to pull his arm free from her grip and finding it held tight. “I am sorry, I was wandering aimlessly. I am to return to the Sanctum, my wife awaits me-” “You don’t have to go! Please, come with me and stay for a while!” the woman said, her smile dazzling as her tugging on his arm increased. “It would be wonderful to have company today. And you need something to calm your nerves.” Ford finally managed to escape her grasp, putting some distance between she and him, the deliberate gesture seemingly wounding her spirit. “I am sorry, truly, but I must go. My wife awaits me.” He turned and left, now realizing that the streets were still empty, save for he and that one woman. Had she been the one following him? His path towards the city center was a twisted, winding one, constantly doubling back as he continued to hear footsteps somewhere behind him. At first he had suspected she was going to continue in her persistence, but then he heard the sound of hard boots alongside another pair of footfalls- he was in danger. “Come, you seem tired!” Another hand reached out and took him in an iron grasp- a raven-haired girl with eyes that shined like sapphires, hardly an adult. “It would be lovely to have you here- even if only for a little bit!” “I must see my wife, I am sorry-” “She doesn’t have to know! It could be a secret!” she insisted, trying to pull him into the depths of her home with shadows that now seemed to hide some fell darkness. “You know my lips are sealed-” Ford managed to free himself and continued on, his calm pace now turning into a brisk walk. There were more people on the streets now, and despite his still-hidden features every eye was turning to fixate upon him. His cover had been blown and they somehow all knew it. A group of soldiers made an appearance at the intersection, their heads on a swivel as they began a search- for what, Ford could hardly guess. They’ll be after Celestia next if they don’t have her already. We walked right into a trap. He ducked into an alley and cut through, heading behind a series of magnificent villas- A figure stepped out from behind a fountain and called out greetings to him. A woman with golden hair, finely dressed and more beautiful than any Ford had ever seen, walked out to meet him, taking him in her arms and kissing him- “Let me go!” he snarled. “Come sleep with me!” she begged, kissing him again as though she desperately hungered for his touch. “I have looked for you for so long-” Ford threw her off of him and he raced out of the alley and into the streets, his hood falling from his face as he entered back into the sunlight- “Hey! You there!” A soldier grabbed him by the collar and pulled him back, looking down at him with a stern displeasure. “There are laws against causing a ruckus, you know! I’ll have to give you a citation!” “I am sorry, I must leave- now!” Ford said, his eyes glancing back down the alley in case the crazed woman had decided to follow. “I will be at the Sanctum, speak if Barraway and I will settle the matter-” “Hey! Hey, wait a second!” the soldier began to follow after him, Ford pushing through the crowd in an effort to disappear, but everywhere he went eyes found him and voices reached out for his attention. “Fresh fruit, picked just for you!” “I have found gold, my friend, come and see!” “I need your help, brother, come quickly!” “We have a meal set for you, my friend!” “Oh, won’t you please come here for just a little bit?” Ford felt a hand on his shoulder, gripping tight and squeezing tight in an effort to prevent escape. “Come Ford, no need to make a scene,” said another soldier, holding him tight and pushing him against a wall. “Be a good soldier and let this be done and over with.” Ford’s efforts against the man halted in an instant. “How do you know my name?” he rasped. The soldier gave him a smile, one so deeply disconnected from the shadows now roiling in his eyes. “Our King has longed to meet you, and knows your name.” Ford felt a sick, painful shock of cold horror run through him like lightning. He knew who the king was. He ran as fast as he could, pushing and shoving through a crowd that had turned against him. Everywhere he went arms and hands and feet and bodies blocked his path, hoping to make him stumble or slow him down, even for a heartbeat. Ford thrashed about, throwing punches and shoves this way and that to shake them off, to gain that one bit of ground and move ahead. “Tia, run!” he roared, hoping that she would somehow hear him in the midst of it all, even though so far away. “Run!” A hand went across his mouth and he bit down- but a dozen more took hold of his body, pulling back his arms and legs as he fought against them with every fiber of his being, writhing against the masses that now overwhelmed him and sent the world swirling in a cloud of black. Celestia was wary. All of the Sanctum priesthood listened to her story with rapt attention, seemingly glued to her every word while their eyes remained cold and calculating, like those of a predator about to strike. She tried her best to keep herself calm, but an occasional tremble in her words was evident. Something was wrong. They’re looking for something. Ever since I told them Ford was ill, they’ve been on alert. We should have waited until nightfall, then begun the search together. “Please, Lady Celestia,” one of the priests said, cutting though her words with a raised hand. “This land you spoke of earlier, before you came to a green world… what had caused it to become so desolate and lonely?” She found herself hesitant to speak Sombra’s name. They kept asking for a perpetrator, like they wished to hear it said aloud. Like a signal to strike. “A wicked man, who deceived their leaders and convinced them to take steps that would cause their ruin,” she replied, her voice become all the more tremulous. “He lied to them and spoke to them of promises that could not be kept.” “All that destruction was all because of the words of one man?” “Yes,” she said. “They were deceived, and in so they destroyed themselves. Only the few who gave us shelter were able to escape the abyss.” The priests present muttered amongst themselves, discussing her story with various reactions. Some seemed sickened, others interested, a few thoughtful. Celestia wondered what they would glean from such things. Did they require it for their lore? Perhaps writings for their king? She could hardly guess. “Well, my brothers, at least we can know one thing from our lady’s tales,” said the High Priest, coming forward from within the group of holy men and addressing them all. “Such atrocities occur in any world. They once occurred here- until our King came and united the world in harmony.” “Our King surely would have saved them!” cried one of them. “His strength is great, and what mercy he would have upon them all.” The general consensus, judging by the noise, was that of assent. Just what kind of words has their King used to convince them so deeply of how magnificent he is? Celestia wondered. “So, dear lady, you went to spend three years with the people of the Colony, in a wild place untamed and untouched by man,” the High Priest said, “would you consider your time here or there better spent?” It’s a test. She tried to think of a way to answer without blatantly lying and giving herself away. “We were grateful for our time of rest among them,” she said warmly, her mind drifting back to days beneath fresh, clear skies and a gentle sun. “As we are grateful for our time among you all. Your hospitality has been most welcoming, and my husband and I are very grateful for the kindness you have shown us.” “We do it in service of our King, dear lady! He has long awaited your arrival! It will be joy for him to see you at last!” Words she had heard spoken over and over again. If their king was so eager to meet us, one would think he would have arrived already, she thought. Captain Barraway appeared at the door, his armor somewhat disheveled as though he had come in a great hurry. “A request to speak with the High Priest Abiathar!” he called out into the crowd of holy men. “If you would excuse me, dear lady,” the High Priest said, bowing his way out the door and heading out with Barraway at his side. Celestia shifted in her seat, feeling a change in the atmosphere as the eyes of the priesthood turned from their leader and back to her, their gaze more hungry and voracious than ever before. The tamer has left me with his hungry pride of lions. “Dear lady, please speak to us of your husband, Lord Saber Ford,” said one of them, a smile upon a face as cold as ice. “Surely he is not your first love?” “He is. And always will be,” Celestia said, a sudden stab of fear piercing her heart. Had Ford been found by them? We’re running out of time. “I could find no greater man on earth, or anywhere.” “You are dear of him, yes- but surely our King would be greater of a husband than he!” Another great round of assent in honor of their beloved king, leaving Celestia’s skin crawling. “Once our King has arrived, you must meet him! Surely you will see what a great man can truly look like!” It was time to go. She tried to find an unobstructed exit and found soldiers at every door. I have been here too long. “I am sorry, gentlemen, but I have nothing else to say that is worth saying,” Celestia declared, rising to her feet. “I am- very grateful for the words we have spoken today. I must return to tend to my husband, and see that he is well-” “You say that your husband is your one great love, but surely there was another before him!” said one of the priests, his words cutting through the air so sharply that the sound blistered her ears. “You once had a lover before him, a far greater man, did you not? A ruler of a kingdom, just like yourself! Your husband does not know, does he?” Celestia’s blood became frigid and she was struck dumb by the sudden declaration, the atmosphere now charged and set to ignite. Cold memories, so long buried, willfully forgotten, came creeping to the surface and made her heart twist and writhe in agony at their presence until she could hardly stand to breathe with such things pressing tight against her chest. “How do you know that?” she whispered. “He is here! The King has arrived!” Captain Barraway reappeared at the door with the High Priest beside him, their faces alight with a joy that was more akin to madness, the shadows in their eyes now roiling like a sea in a storm. “Come, dear lady, our King longs to meet you!” The cries of joy within the tiny room struck hard against her ears and she winced- “Go! You must meet him at once! He awaits you!” Hands pressed against her back and side, pushing her eagerly towards the door and despite her efforts otherwise, Celestia found herself beginning to exit the Sanctum. Even through the thick walls of the holy place, the cheers and celebration of the crowd were easily evident. “You will be glad to see him, dear lady! Our King is delighted to know you have arrived!” Barraway declared, rushing her eagerly along- Celestia found herself beginning to panic, her eyes darting this way and that as she realized she was now surrounded, guards and priests on every side. I’m a prisoner- “Our King is here! Kill the fattened calf and let us celebrate! Our redeemer is now here!” Celestia’s heart hammered inside her chest and she tried to summon her power to grasp, to feel it ignite in her fingertips- A cold, thick metal fell around her wrists and the flow was broken, leaving her head swimming as her arms were held tight against her back- “My husband. Please, I must tend to him first-” “He is already here, for he has come to see the King! Come, quickly now!” Barraway urged, his hand now in a vicegrip on her shoulder. I need to get out of here. Ford, where are you? The doors to the Sanctum opened to a great crowd of what seemed to be the entire city in celebration, singing songs and praising their king who was somewhere within the crowd. “Our King is delighted to know you are here, Celestia! He has waited so long to see you,” Barraway said, snapping his fingers- A heavy blow struck the back of her head and Celestia was toppled, falling to her knees as her vision swirled- Another strike, then another. Blow after blow fell and still she could not summon her strength to fight them. As her eyes began to close, she looked up at a figure looming before her, and saw the face of King Sombra, his eyes alight with rage.