//------------------------------// // Chapter Seventeen: Purpose // Story: Cure For a Toxin // by RadBunny //------------------------------// Toxic stared at the parchment, nerves and uneasiness having fled an hour ago after he had returned from lunch with his special somegriff. His eyes scanned over the simple bullet points, despite having read them a dozen times. I know this feeling. An eager grin had slid onto his face a few minutes ago and the stallion was fairly certain it was here to stay. The parchment was a simple affair; a code of conduct and the general outlines of the initiation ritual into the higher levels of Nacreous’s now-functionally-extinct Order. But this feeling, this buildup of tension as if just before the drop on a roller coaster. This sensation just before a big change, The power of a chance to change things. The stallion had felt a similar surge of excitement and determination when he and Varti had tested the island facilities a few years ago. The realization of a dream becoming reality; knowing you had the power to change something in the world. And now I’m given the chance to stop a catastrophe from happening, some evil that wants to kill everything I love. As two white eyes came to remembrance, fear wasn’t present in Toxic’s mind as he let out soft growl. It wasn’t his life that he feared the most, oddly enough. It was living with the knowledge of souls he could not save. I’ve faced creatures like you before. No training, just a desperate grasp to make a difference. Back then I was just some young colt in a cobbled together hazard suit hoping and praying to the stars I could save a life! And now… Rolling up the parchment and trotting out of the private study, Toxic angled towards the throne room, his mind made up. If I’m supposed to be the pony that stands in the way of this new threat, then so be it! Even if this ‘choice’ isn’t really one, the outcome is worth it. A dozen faces flashed through the pony’s mind; young colts and fillies as they had looked up to him in wonder and thanks. I made a promise then, and every year since. I’ll never stand by while creatures those past foes prey on the helpless. And now someone has targeted me, wanting to remove my hooves from their plans? Let them try! He paused at the throne room doors, Toxic swallowing a lump that rose in his throat, a few memories springing to the fore. His younger brother in a hospital, surrounded by nurses and machines that helped ease the pain. Gelliana smiling at him before wrapping him up in a hug. Two parents’ ecstatic at seeing their son pursuing his dream. A Yak hugging his daughter close, grateful tears streaming down his cheeks. “You already knew your answer, didn’t you?” Clari asked as she appeared at his side, Toxic letting out a chuckle. “Perhaps. I made the choice for this sort of thing a long time ago. I just had to remember why,” Toxic replied with a determined snort, eyes then narrowing. He knew when he was being played, and this was no exception, even if his mind was made up. “But that said, Clari, you do understand how this appears to me? Everycreature, you offering me a ‘choice’ at this time in my life with all the royalty backing you up? This is the appearance of choice, nothing more, and I’m well aware of that. The choice to live or die is hardly a fair one, don’t think I missed that." To her credit, the Leyline entity nodded, ears flattened sadly. “Yes, I know,” she whispered honestly. “And yet there is no other way I can phrase it or offer my help against this foe. I wish this could all happen at a different time, more naturally. But I’m out of time. Choosing between help that will save your life and the lack thereof that will end your life is no real choice at all. For what my words are worth, I am sorry. R-really I am. I n-never wanted it to go t-this way, I t-tried…” Genuine tears brimmed in Clari’s eyes, the mare shaking her head back and forth. “You don’t deserve this, T-toxic, not after what you’ve been through,” she said softly. “I know I must look like Celestia, offering you nothing more than burdens, words, and rigged choices despite my best efforts. And if that’s how you remember this, remember me, then I’ll l-live with that.” Toxic frowned, the unicorn letting out a sigh. “I wish I could trust you, Celestia, everyone. I really do,” Toxic said. “But you are looking out for an aspect of life itself. My well-being doesn’t mean that much in the grand-” “You are wrong!” Clari hissed, a bit of fire igniting in the mare’s eyes as she locked gazes with him. “This is different! Everything depends on you living! I am not some ruler who will sacrifice a pony to save a nation. If you die, darkness wins! I can’t allow that! I wish I could give you a genuine choice, of accepting this help or not, but I can’t. He moved too fast for me to come to you with this offer earlier, so I either had to move now, suddenly, or not at all. You can win without joining this order, but it binds my hooves in offering help and makes your chances nearly impossible. I guess it really isn’t that much of a choice however you cut it.” Toxic grinned, surprising the mare as he leaned over to give her a friendly nudge on the shoulder with his hoof. “So, whoever this enemy is bears the brunt of taking my choice from me? More or less?” Clari nodded firmly, now not able to meet Toxic’s gaze any longer despite the stallion’s sincere smile. “For the most part, but that’s not excusing my actions though. I could have been faster, maybe gotten involved sooner and not been so blasted slow at realizing the threat. Maybe I could have headed things off, maybe then you’d have had a few years to make this choice instead of a few hours. It’s not fair to make this offer to somecreature who is hurting- and I know you are. Nacreous’s Order is very much my jurisdiction. They are one of the ways I can help guide things- were one of the ways.” “You do know that I’d have said yes either way though.” The mare’s head snapped up, Toxic still smiling, a bit of exhaustion entering his expression. “Despite my words, I’m tired of not trusting creatures, Clari,” he admitted. “I said moments ago I couldn’t trust you, but now after hearing that, I think I can, at least a bit more. Your view and Celestia’s seem to differ on how I can best be used, more or less. Joining Nacreous’s order is something I’d have said yes to regardless of all this. Helping other creatures is what I do.” The flurry of faces came to Toxic’s mind once again, the unicorn setting his jaw firmly. “My brother, dozens of fillies and colts…I am buckling under the weight of all this, Clari,” he admitted, “but to refuse an offer of power such as this would be folly. It’s not a choice, it never was. The presentation however left something to be desired.” Clari managed a smile at that, the entity clearly still remorseful. “You don’t have to believe me, but if there was another way to help without putting so much responsibility on you, I’d have done it,” she said. “And once this is all over, I will not hold it against you if you leave the Order and all of it behind. I kind of expect that, to be honest.” “Give up super-cool armor and powers that center around helping creatures?” Toxic chuckled. “You seem to know me more than Nacreous or Celestia. Does that sound like something I’d do? Maybe take a break to finally heal, but if you’re giving me this power, no takebacks.” Clari giggled, sniffing back a few tears as the stallion appeared to be sincerely at ease around her. His distrust of her had clearly been an almost physical pain to the entity. “Now, let’s get this rolling.” Striding into the throne room, the unicorn looked at the gathered royals with a firm nod. “When do we start?” The triumphant grin on Nacreous’s beak lit up the room, the Paladin summoning his own armor and staff. “How long can you stay here?” the Emperor asked. “The ceremony could take some time, the rest of the day or longer.” “Well, as long as you’re providing dinner, here I stay then.” That reply made the remaining three creatures smile, Clari happily hopping up and down at his side. “The spell is simple. But usually initiates have months of preparation,” Nacreous explained as the throne room was sealed by a dozen privacy and security spells. “You do not have the training of an Initiate in the normal sense. However, you have walked the path, I think. As a Paladin I can allow a bit of leeway in the ceremonies. However, it is not up to me alone.” A surprised look from Celestia and Luna clued Toxic into things a bit. Apparently, the Emperor hadn’t explained the details to anyone… “Clari? How about you explain?” Nacreous stated. “You will commune with the leylines,” the mare began. “Not mine specifically, but just the entire energy. Usually mentors serve as, what’s a good word? ‘Guides’ for you during this process. They will help you find what your ‘calling’ will be. Sorry, that’s a poor translation. It’s more of what station you will hold; initiate, Paladin, or otherwise. The evaluation consists of a simple oath to live the general requirements of the Order, similar to the Knights of old,” she paused, waiting until Toxic had nodded before continuing. “After that, there will be a more in-depth evaluation of your character, and that is where your station, or lack thereof in the Order will be decided. Your mentors will be myself, Nacreous, perhaps Iust after I talk with him again, and two past, or should I say, present, teachers of Paladin Thunderwing.” Her last words earned a few surprised stares, Nacreous beginning to send a few runes skittering out across the room. “Past teachers?” the Emperor asked curiously, Clari nodded with a knowing nod. Despite her bubbly nature, her demeanor and eyes now shone with an ancient wisdom that was more befit of a village elder than anything else. “You’ll know them. I can’t say too much. And Toxic?” “Yes?” “There’s a reason we aren’t telling you more about the other positions you may be guided to. This presents a unique opportunity for you to be guided to exactly what, and who you are. You’ve already walked a path, and now you can find out what it is without any preconceived notions. Paladin Thunderwing will handle the initial questioning.” Clari then nodded to Nacreous, Celestia and Luna stepping to the side to watch curiously. “Are you ready, Toxic Shield?” the Paladin asked. “If you want to decline, now is one of the final times to do so." Toxic took a look around, breathing in and out a few times before nodding. “I’m ready.” Nacreous gently tapped his staff on the floor, blue lines of energy flickering out to connect the dozens of runes in the room. The ancient symbols brightened to the point of everycreature needing to close their eyes against the intensity. When they all opened their eyes, the throne room was gone. Instead, a large room greeted them, the floor, walls, and ceiling composed of what looked like an ocean of threads, each line moving like lightning. “Roughly translated, this is the ‘judgement realm,’” Clari explained. “It is here that Initiates commune with the leylines and speak with their mentors of what their title should be. There are other levels of judgement however; you know of this, Nacreous, but they are forbidden to speak of outside this realm.” Nacreous nodded, gesturing to the representative leyline ‘ocean’s around them. “Toxic, Celly, Luna, Shifting,” he began, “In this realm, before you are confirmed a Paladin or the like, you are questioned and examined. Here, time is not as linear as we think it is. Your deeds, your intentions, your relationships, your future actions- it all can be seen, in a sense.” “It’s how I see things,” Clari said softly. “I can’t see the future, but I can extrapolate what will most likely happen. So, it may seem like I can, but that’s just because it's the best way to explain it.” “So, I’m to be judged on my actions? There was a single line on the parchment concerning that, but I wasn’t sure what that meant,” Toxic muttered. “Yes. But as I have said, you needn’t worry. Shall we begin the general questions?” Nacreous said. “Wait a moment, Nacreous,” Clari interjected, nodding to Celestia, Luna, and Shifting. “Will you accept this invitation to serve as witnessed to this stallion’s induction to the Order? The name of this group has been lost on time, along with its members. Yet the codes of conduct remain, as does the untapped power. Perhaps this Order will return to the world once again, but that remains to be seen. Do you three affirm that Toxic Shield is of good conscience and a good candidate to serve as a force of good in this world?” “Yes,” Luna immediately said, following by Shifting and Celestia. “Then, Paladin Nacreous, let us proceed. You three must wait here. The questioning and examination are very personal, and is to only be seen by a few of the highest ranking and most powerful individuals within this organization,” Clari said, watching the reactions of the two alicorns and other unicorn. They simply bowed their heads- knowing this event was one of the areas they did not fully understand, many questions remaining unanswered. “That goes for you too, Paladin. The two who will examine Toxic outside of the general questions have requested to be alone with him.” Nacreous looked at Clari in surprise, his eyes then drifting to two shapes that began to coalesce behind her. Motes of light formed around the outlines of the individuals, taking the translucent form similar to that of Clari. First was a large minotaur, the individual hefting a massive war axe. At his side, an elderly Earth Pony sat, a rough beard on his face. “Hello, Trainee Thunderwing,” the Minotaur rumbled with a chuckle as he set his axe aside. “I hope that test I gave you wasn’t too difficult. I do believe you and the others are completing it tomorrow.” Staring in absolute shock, Nacreous was unable to speak. The torrent of emotions was apparent as tears began to trickle from his eyes, beak quivering. “T-teacher?” he whispered, “Master Granite?” Celestia trotted over to her Fiancé’s side in worry as the minotaur chuckled, striding forwards to hold out a hand in greeting. “It has been centuries for you, has it not?” Master Granite said, “Hundreds of years and you are still doing well. Even with us fading, you remain. And are to wed the Empress of the Sun nonetheless!” The minotaur was pushed off balance as Nacreous darted forwards, wrapping the equally large individual up in a hug. “You didn’t really think we would vanish so easily, did you?” Granite chuckled, the earth pony at his side bowing in greeting, one which Nacreous returned after collecting himself. “Master Torn Parchment, it is good to see you again,” Nacreous whispered. “And you, Paladin,” the more reserved earth pony replied with a kind smile. “Even though technically we spoke yesterday for myself.” Seeing Toxic raising his hoof, Granite laughed and gestured to the smaller (much) smaller pony. “I apologize, Toxic Shield. This reunion must seem quite odd.” “So, are you Nacreous’s teacher? Or were?” Toxic asked. “When you commune with the leylines long enough, young unicorn, time doesn’t mean the same, neither does death,” Torn explained with a knowing nod. “We knew we would be needed at this point to judge a new initiate. And so, we are here, despite being in the past at the same time. Nacreous here was in our class just the other day, and will continue his training tomorrow. Yet we stand here now looking, to your perspective, ahead into the future.” Granite let out another bellowing laugh as Toxic winced. “Do not worry about it, young one,” the minotaur rumbled. “What matters is that we are here to continue the process. Clari will join us for that part of the process, but first, Nacreous, the modified questions?” “Ah, right,” Nacreous said, collecting himself. “Toxic Shield, if you have read of ancient Knights, and perhaps some more recent, you may recognize some of these codes of conduct. These are to be some, but not all of the attributes you must continually seek to embody,” he then paused, looking at the stallion with a confident smile. “Continue to embody, as I can think of no conflict you will have with these.” Toxic sat up straighter as Nacreous walked over to him, reading off a parchment that floated into view, the golden writing shedding bright sparks like grains of sand. “There is no time limit for these questions; simply answer them honestly. Will you strive to be courageous for those who cannot?” “Yes.” “Will you strive to show mercy to the worthy and unworthy, as taking a life cannot be undone? “Yes.” “Do you promise to be generous to your fellow creature, to lift up those in need?” “Yes.” “Will you met out justice when it is necessary, to seek out fair council when your own judgement may be clouded by emotion?” “Yes.” “Will you push on through times that would otherwise crush your spirit? To be the creature others have faith in despite your own trials? “Yes.” “Will you be accountable for your actions? To change yourself if you have erred, and to recognize that no creature is above improvement, let alone yourself?” “Yes.” “Will you be noble in your actions? Showing kindness, respect, and courtesy to all creatures of all kinds and creeds?” “Yes.” “Will you strive to have hope for yourself, and give it to those who may have lost it?” At that question, Toxic’s jaw clenched as he nodded firmly, something that didn’t go unnoticed by anycreature. “Yes.” “Will you be loyal to those with whom you pledge your loyalty, your love, and your life to?” Another firm nod, Toxic’s jaw still clenched. “Yes.” “Then proceed to the Masters who will continue the initiation. We will wait here,” Nacreous said calmly, reaching over to give Toxic’s shoulder a reassuring pat. He then walked over to sit next to Celestia, Luna, and Shifting. “Please close your eyes, Initiate Shield.” Torn Parchment stated as arcane magic flooded from the Earth Pony’s frame. As Toxic, Clari, Master Parchment and Granite vanished, Celestia chewed on her lip in slight worry. “Will he…?” “He’ll be fine, Sunspots,” Nacreous whispered. “I think he’s going to give my old teachers a surprise of his own.” Toxic’s vision cleared, noticing that the room was no longer there. Instead he, Clari, Master Parchment and Granite stood in front of a large wall composed of clouds. It was as though slabs of granite contained equally grey storm clouds, lightning occasionally illuminating deeper depths. “Well, Toxic,” Master Granite chuckled, gesturing to the wall of clouds. “You passed the initial questioning. We sensed no lies from you, and trust me, we’ve done this long enough to have picked up even a bit of that. With your consent, we’ll be able to see a map of your life, and to know the things Clari does.” Toxic nodded, looking curiously at the large expanse of something. “This is your life, Toxic.” Wait WHAT? “Uh, pardon?” he asked, Clari letting out a soft giggle but otherwise letting the Masters take the lead. “Every creature has a theme. It may change depending on their current state of mind in their life. Yours appears to be clouds, storm clouds to be specific, thunderheads,” Torn explained. “During this test, we are to examine your deeds in general. That is part of the power that is granted to us with these leylines. We cannot see specifics however, only how choices have affected others, and how they may continue to affect others, and they to you. It is a simple good, bad, or neutral gauge.” “That, uh, is a lot to take in,” Toxic admitted. “For example,” Granite added, waving a hand towards a white slab of marble, the object appearing out of thin ‘air’. A large blue dot pulsed brightly on one edge, traveling from left to right in a straight line. Along the way, small branches formed, other dots blinking blue or white and continuing on out of view. Other dots winked out of existence, a black dot forming and seeming to spread to a few dots like a fungus on a tree. “Here you see a portion of my life, Toxic,” Granite said, gesturing to the main ‘trunk’ line. “This is the progression of my life. Here is where I met some of my first students.” He gestured to a few of the branching white dots that continued on out of view. “As you can see, I had a positive influence on their life and they continued to be a positive influence in my life.” His gesture then drifted to the blackened, diseased portion of the lines, the minotaur’s voice growing rather somber. “And here is where I made a mistake, Toxic,” the Master admitted. “In my joy of finally having my first class, I neglected some of my students in the second admittance. A few of them fell away into darker paths, and I was forced to face them in combat in the future. I was a negative influence on their life, and they to me. Yet the burden lies on myself. The color of the dots is only a rough indicator. Blue and white is a positive influence on your life, and you to them. This diseased, burned color is a negative. Do you understand?” The now-nervous stallion nodding, taking a few deep breaths. “I think so. So, this will basically just show if I’ve been a good pony, or a bad one, in terms of relating to others?” “It’s much more than that. It takes into account whether you could have done more, if the fault of such negative interactions was yours or another and-” “Yes, Toxic, that’s a good, simple way of putting it,” Granite interrupted Torn with a friendly roll of his eyes, the other stallion letting out a huff. “It is a more in-depth examination of your character. Did your interactions with family, friends, and so forth have positive impacts on yourself and them? Did you react accordingly and continue on when perhaps they were at fault? It is a way to examine your resilience throughout life, and yes, if you are a ‘good’ stallion, in a very crude way.” “Alright, that both makes sense, and doesn’t,” Toxic admitted. “Once the process starts, you’ll know what parts of your life the map shows,” Clari interjected. “It won’t be as confusing, I promise. Do we have your consent to continue?” Steadying his breathing after letting his thoughts settle, Toxic nodded, sitting up a bit straighter. “Alright. I’m ready. And yes.” “You will just feel the leylines reaching out to you. Just like your meditation techniques, lose yourself in the flow,” Clari replied. A flowing river of arcane energy rose from the flow, peacefully flowing through the pony and then aiming towards the cloudy wall. A strange sense of serenity eased all of Toxic’s anxieties, enough so that he almost burst into tears from relief as his eyes closed, the pony rocking back and forth slightly. Like his exercises, it felt like he was on the shore of a powerful ocean. Waves flowing over his frame, pushing and pulling with a force far beyond his own. It was so easy to simply go with the motion, even with this experience being much more forceful. Toxic didn’t see the three individuals present smile, trading knowing looks at the unimpeded energy that flowed through the stallion. Rare was it that the process was so smooth. The energy began to form into a cohesive line on the left part of the wall, beginning to travel at an even pace across the background. Life Map visual (click) The first dot was a bright, sun-level intensity. When I was born. It was a simple confirmation, a strange knowing what the dot was. The two branches from the main line indicated the relationship Toxic had with his parents initially, a positive one he still maintained to this day. Then the other lines, my siblings; my childhood friends. Those lines faded; not out of malice, but simply as individuals grew apart. The river of Toxic’s life continued; a few blue dots forming and fading as such similar relationships occurred. A large branch then formed, a gathering of small offshoots around the time the stallion was ten. An icy grip held Toxic’s heart at seeing that. He knew what that was. The branches began to grow, blossoming, and then withered. A purple, black disease tore away the blooming relationships with friends and teachers. A single word sprang to Toxic’s mind, making him take a few deep breaths. Oakbark. A dozen of the lines from the diseased branches continued, eventually fading as Toxic’s life continued on. And yet they were still… “How?” Toxic croaked, gesturing to the stormy wall. “How are the survivors from that event-why does it show a good relationship?” “Why would it not?” Clari asked softly, the mare sitting at his side. “You saved their lives.” “I saved some of their lives!” Toxic whispered. “And the others I doomed to a decade of suffering, each withering in hospital beds one by one!” “Do you think they thought that way?” Clari asked. “Perhaps some of them did at times, but did you ever consider the other side of it?” Toxic didn’t reply. The last survivor had perished last year, and the knowledge that he was the last… “How much do you think it mattered to those you saved, to the parents and loved ones, that they could have final moments? Perhaps they were in a hospital for their final years, but they were comfortable, lucid enough to be at peace.” The stallion simply shook his head, a few tears welling up in his eyes. “I d-don’t…” “You feel guilty for those you have been unable to save.” Granite’s statement was an exact echo of Toxic’s thoughts. It was not a question, and to the stallion it came off as a condemnation. Yet the caring smiles on the faces of the two Masters were anything but angry. The wall of Toxic’s life faded, the exercise paused for a moment. “Toxic, I believe there is a more relevant exercise that needs to be conducted right now,” Torn Parchment remarked. “Please, open your eyes.” The stallion did so, swiping a forelimb across them as he looked at the map. “Wait, it stopped?” he asked. “You need something else,” Clari whispered, gesturing to the leyline river. It began to fray, each tendril zipping out underneath the ‘wall’. “You are too clouded by doubt and guilt. Buried underneath your day to day duties, you’ve never really come to terms with it?” Granite asked. “Clari has told us; you are the only survivor now, and you have not been able to heal from the wounds of that day, not completely. You now serve others at the cost of your own health. You cannot stop, because the guilt of knowing that lives would be lost at your expense would be too much. Is that correct?” Toxic could only nod once. It was humbling to have his deepest challenges laid bare, and yet there were none of the anxieties usually associated with such. He knew these three could be trusted, and that was saying a lot for him. “I am going to show you two things,” Clari said softly. “This is an act of trust, Toxic. I know how this may seem cruel, but I beg you to trust me. The first are the creatures who have suffered due to you not putting their needs above your own. The second will be those whom you did save.” Toxic’s limbs shook violently, the stallion shaking his head as he shut his eyes tightly. “P-please, don’t,” he whispered. “I don’t know if I can…” “Toxic, just look up.” Drawing on all of his willpower, Toxic lifted his gaze, opening his eyes to gaze upon the hundreds he failed to- A single set of eyes looked back at him. Shock replaced trepidation, Toxic looking at the individual in shock. The pony that stared back at him was a mirror image of the stallion. “I don’t understand,” he whispered. “You have never refused a call to action, Toxic Shield,” Master Granite rumbled as he walked over to the dumbfounded stallion. “You have always responded to requests for aid, and even to times where it was not. You have never put your own life above that of another’s in need, not when their life would be extinguished. Do you really think that counts for so little? The pony that has suffered most because of your actions is yourself. We are not saying you were perfect in your actions, but none have died due to a lack of effort on your part. Even if you did not succeed in saving somecreature’s life, it was not due to a lack of trying.” Toxic hung his head, not knowing how to react. What else could he have done? Knowing somecreature would have died while he relaxed in his apartment? “I had to,” he said, mouth moving on its own without much preconceived thought. “How could I keep living knowing others would have suffered by my inaction? I was too late once, I never-” “You were not too late, Toxic Shield!” Clari abruptly cut in. “You responded faster than any other creature to the incident in Baltimare, and it was no creature’s fault but the fanatics that day, and the officials who held off alerting Celestia and likewise you. Do not hold your brother’s condition over your head any longer.” “Easier said than done,” Toxic whispered. “Perhaps. But remember I know a bit more than you about the flow of things in this world,” Clari replied. “The attack that left your brother chronically injured was neither your fault nor within your ability to prevent. Does it look like he holds that against you?” Toxic looked back to the life-map, and the lines showing his familiar relationships were solid and strong, even the one with his brother. Especially with his brother. “He loves you for being there for him before anycreature else was even able to get close to the blast site. He loves you for that; nothing less. The first pony he saw at his side was you.” The tears threatened to spill out of Toxic’s eyes again, the stallion taking a few shuddering breaths as he looked to his hooves, trying to regain his composure. “And now the creatures you have both saved directly, in a physical sense and otherwise.” Toxic lifted his gaze and found the wall completely gone. Standing on puffy white clouds, a gathering of ethereal creatures looked back at him with gentle smiles on their face. And at the forefront, dozens of foals, gryphon chicks, and youngsters of various other species smiled back at him. His jaw quivering, Toxic stood up as more creatures began to form, the stallion’s eyes swimming with tears. “Dark thoughts are powerful, insidious things,” Granite said quietly. “A drop of guilt and pain can drown out a waterfall of good, an ocean.” More creatures continued to form. Dozens, hundreds… Thousands. Toxic couldn’t keep the tears back anymore, spying a large Yak with a forelimb around a younger individual. “V-varti?” he croaked out, taking a few steps forward. “And his daughter. They owe their lives to you, Toxic.” “I’ve never saved Varti from death though?” “Saving is not always physical, Toxic Shield,” Parchment remarked. “What would the impact have been to Varti if he had lost his daughter to those creatures? If any of those parents had lost their little ones?” Jaw quivering, Toxic couldn’t respond as the field of individuals spread out in front of him, the number extending beyond view. “I n-never knew…” he whispered. “Wheat Pepper,” Clari said, a light in the distance lighting up to indicate the individual. “Earth pony. Her husband would have been a first responder to one of your incidents if you had not responded. He would have died due to the chemicals months later; she would never be the same.” “Lime Glass. Her marefriend was a medic. She would have responded to an incident had you not shut it down. The chemicals would have killed her and every other first responder before they realized the toxicity. That was prevented when you fixed the pressure valves at a facility five years ago,” Granite explained. “What may have been a two-hour job of closing valves and welding pipes in a poisonous cloud was an act that saved hundreds. And yet you never got to see the fruits of your labor, not until now,” Parchment stated. “Everycreature should know how many lives their small acts of kindness, of duty can impact.” Two familiar figures now appeared, smiling next to a stallion and large hippogriff. “Celestia? Luna? Shifting and Nacreous?” Toxic asked, shaking his head. “I don’t understand.” “They would have died,” Granite said bluntly, gesturing to the four individuals with a grin. “Died or permanently crippled from trying to stop various disasters from occurring. And as such, they would have never met these two, and so on and so forth. Don’t think they are so far removed.” The minotaur then seemed to suppress a chuckle, Clari motioning off to his side. “The map, Toxic,” Clari whispered. Toxic looked back and drew in a surprised gasp. The life-map had exploded with branches. Life-saving tendrils and dots flew every which way off of the main trunk. Every life he had saved, every family that remained whole, every child that had come home safe. And then all of the lives they had touched, an exponential spread of life and potential. I did all of this? A dark spot ignited across the branches however. What was once a collection of blue dots beginning to fade. A brief pink branch had begun to form- but it was cut off by a disease that ate the dot from the inside-out. Just when I thought I had things figured out. A group of friends, and even had a few dates with an interested mare. A special somepony… Or so I thought. “And yet there are those who cannot see the burden you bear as anything but an oddity,” Granite said sadly. “The scar you bear from Oakbark as anything but a negative. There will always been those creatures in this world.” I trusted her, even began to like her; and in return she spread lies to those I thought companions. They believed her, and I lost those I thought were my friends, all except Varti and Hammer. “And yet…” Toxic looked back to the still-expanding map, every life he had touched still soaring upwards to the heavens with unspent potential. And yet now as the map neared the current time, another dot winked into existence next to him. Coming from what looked like to be another life-branch, it eagerly began to twine around his own before it stopped, the map pausing at the present time. The pink branch was still firmly meshed with his own; just seeing the color spread warmth through Toxic’s chest. “Gelliana,” he whispered. “In a land where emotion can be harnessed and utilized, love is a powerful force indeed,” Granite chuckled. A blush spread onto Toxic’s cheeks at that. They hadn’t even said… “I wish you the best in that regard, Toxic. It is interesting though.” The stallion looked over at Granite’s words- and his jaw nearly dropped as a new figure formed at the front of the creatures spread out before him. A familiar gryphoness looked back at him, eyes wide with hope and an excited smile on her beak. “Gells?” “You must have impacted her life a great deal, Toxic, to have her show up here,” Granite remarked. “An incomplete relationship, but a strong one nonetheless. This map does not show what can be- only what is.” The stallion didn’t say anything to that, only staring at the cheery line glowing happily back at him, an equally happy image of a certain gryphoness still standing amidst the other creatures. Have I really missed how much she cares? Does she know? Is this just extrapolating on what I think is going on? Of course, the obvious answer is to ask. Will definitely do that on our next date, which I wanted to be special anyhow. “Do you understand now, Toxic?” Granite asked, gesturing to the map and creatures spread out of view due to their number. “These are the lives you have touched by yourself.” A familiar fire ignited in the stallion’s chest, a wry grin now twitching at his features. “Can this map show possibilities?” Toxic asked. “If my dream is realized, how many creatures can my organization help?” Clari was smiled widely at that- making a gesture towards the map. The entire scene exploded in lines, hundreds of them branching off with countless dots of individuals affected. Toxic promptly sat down in surprise, having to blink from the intensity of the lights in front of him. “Countless. That is the answer, Toxic Shield,” Clari stated proudly. “You have used your unique position to better others, not hoarding wealth but using it to help.” Her expression then softened, the mare trotting over to gently poke the stallion in the chest. “But you have endured this burden alone for too long. You’re still a pony, and you need the extra help. That is what all of this is about.” “Indeed,” Granite rumbled, sending the life-wall fading away with a wave of his hand. The countless creatures faded- Gelliana lingering last before the four individuals were once again alone in the cloudy room. “We have judged your past and present, and found you worthy to join our Order,” Master Granite proclaimed, sending his battle-axe thudding into the floor with a surprisingly loud THUD. “There are many stations in this Order. As of now, you would be an Initiate, but that would not grant to you the sufficient power you need to endure the trials ahead of you. Therefore, we have decided to extend another offer, as you may have expected.” “I…thank you,” Toxic managed to say, “But that sounds a tad foreboding.” “I will not lie to you, Toxic Shield,” Parchment sighed, “The path ahead of you is dangerous. Events that can tip a balance to life and death are on a knife’s edge. Some of the force that can push it either way lies with you. We see you fit for a greater station.” Toxic’s head tilted curiously, Clari letting out a soft giggle. “That must seem confusing; we’ve been talking to each other this entire time, Toxic. Remember, time doesn’t work the same way here,” she explained. “In the brief pauses we’ve had between conversing with you, the Masters and I have conversed what must have been hours, perhaps days on how best to help you, even though moments have passed for you.” “Uh…ow, ok,” Toxic muttered, wincing as he shook his head. “That makes a bit more sense. But what positions are there?” “You will learn them in time. Once this process is complete, Nacreous can teach you all there is to know about our Order. Perhaps you two can bring it back into modern times. He has all the records, even if he doesn’t realize it,” Parchment mused. “We left with him a few different maps to locate our archives. Not everything burned with our monastery and the lands surrounding it. But enough of that.” “You are not to be a Paladin, Toxic,” Master Granite stated. “A Paladin plays a more passive roll, as is seen by Nacreous. He wandered, embodying the love for all creatures and helping those he could, defending those in need. To use a better analogy, a Paladin is a constant, positive influence wherever they go. A police-pony in the balance of good and evil. A Paladin has a broad calling, both passive and active.” Toxic’s ears flattened, the stallion feeling his heart sink slightly. “And I’m not suited for that?” he asked softly. *Music Option* https://www.infinitelooper.com/?v=N-ted7frO6U&p=n#/79;199 “No. You are not a police-pony,” Parchment stated, “You are a warrior.” At Granite’s words, Toxic’s ears snapped back up, his green eyes widening in surprise. “The stations above Initiate are all voluntary, so you may reject this offer,” Granite said, leaning on his axe. “One of the highest is a Paladin of or order, and was one of the most numerous positions. There is another, however. Less in number but greater in influence, and in controversy.” “You are no Paladin, Toxic Shield. You are a Guardian.” What felt like an electric shock ran through the stallion, Toxic looking down to see leyline energy flickering at his hooves. “That’s not me, Toxic,” Clari stated softly. “I don’t control all of the leylines, just one of them.” “A Guardian?” Toxic asked, “What…?” “They are a bulwark against evil in this world,” Master Torn Parchment said, waving a hoof. An image of a dozen armored creatures snapped into existence, standing in front of a shining stone monastery, pyramidal in shape. “Guardians in our order are similar to Paladins; they embody a singular, or in times of crisis, multiple aspects of this world,” Granite explained. “They are an active defense against those who would tip the balance of things to evil. They are dispatched when no other measures can stem the tide of suffering or death, a last resort designated by the leylines of this world to stop the balance from being overcome by darkness.” “You may notice a similarity here,” Clari whispered. “When I am called,” Toxic said softly. “There’s never been anyone else who can help. I’ve been…” “You have been a Guardian for almost two decades, Toxic Shield. A guardian against chemical threats. But this station is much greater than that,” Granite replied. “You have stood as a guardian against other evils in this world, when no other creature could. Such actions would have immediately granted you recognition within our order.” Clari looked over to her side- and Toxic’s heart lodged in his throat. It was like a movie playing, but this was familiar, taking up his entire field of view. A dark, grimy warehouse wall was shown, a young Yak chained with some other foals sobbing in a corner. Magic immediately began to spark around Toxic’s frame before he realized it was a memory, but not his own. It was seen from a third person perspective; as if an invisible pair of eyes was watching. “I-is anyone going t-to come?” one of the fillies whispered, the Yak shaking her head, lips quivering as she tried to not cry. “I d-don’t know. My Papa always promised he’d be there for me.” “The Princess will help!” a colt managed to say. “That’s what she does!” “I…” the yak shook her head. The dozen youngsters fell silent as a commotion erupted out from behind a locked door. Screams, yells, the loud clashing of metal on metal… It went on for some time, a heavy impact then hitting the door. With a loud crash, the body of a large reptile was tossed through the sturdy wood. A broken sword held in the only arm still attached to its torso, the other three nothing but bloody stumps, the reptile plastered himself against a wall as a figure walked steadily through the hole in the wall. Dark magic licking from his eyes, the stallion in front of them briefly looked over to the youngsters, then taking a surprised breath from behind the shattered metal helmet. His gaze then locked onto the reptile, the sword falling from its trembling claws. The stallion’s fanged mouth widened into a sneer, broken metal plates falling from the suit of armor that was wrapped around barrel and limb. Darting forward, the smaller pony sent the reptile slamming to the ground, magic snagging the broken sword and holding it at the creature’s throat. “Are there more of them? SPEAK!” Toxic Shield demanded, the reptile shaking his head. “NO! J-just these! No others! I swear on my life!” the creature begged. “That is worth so little, I shouldn’t trust your words!” Toxic growled, dark magic dripping from his eyes. “Give me a reason I shouldn’t kill you right now!” he hissed; the sword’s edge held against a trembling throat. The reptile refused to move, instead closing his eyes in fear. The sword was then lifted, Toxic sending a piece of metal crashing onto the creature’s skull and knocking him unconscious. “A-are you h-hear to help?” the Yak whispered. The stallion took a few deep breaths, eyes refocusing back to the normal white and green color. Dark violet tendrils and clouds still remained, radiating from the corner of the pony’s eyes steadily. “I am. I know your dad,” Toxic said kindly- his gentle words oddly offsetting the dark figure. “I need to deal with a few more bad guys, then we’re going to leave. Can you stay here for a bit longer?” “O-ok…” “That was not the work of a Paladin, but a Guardian,” Granite stated as the memory ended. “No other creature could have saved them from such an unspeakable fate. You took it upon yourself to toss aside everything except saving their lives.” “It was legal by mere technicalities of the Klugetown Rules of Acquisition,” Toxic said with a huff. “But I’d have done it regardless.” “And that, is what a Guardian does,” Parchment said with a soft laugh. “They are the most controversial aspect of our order. They care little for borders or politics, much like the leylines of this world in a sense. If there is evil threatening those who are innocent, a Guardian is not far behind,” the elderly pony paused, shaking his head sadly. “However, we were blind to such intervention,” he admitted sadly. “We did not recognize that nations could band together to destroy us. We sought to save everycreature else, and that made us a target in the eyes of many evil souls. In saving others, we did not have the strength to fight of the armies that were sent our way. Perhaps you can see some parallels to this, Toxic.” The pony then stood up a bit straighter, pointing a hoof at Toxic. “But you can change that!” Parchment said with a surprising amount of emotion, voice trembling slightly. “You have been planning for such an eventuality for years! Your organization will be able to do what we, for all of our power and foresight could not!” “Politics robbed my brother of living a normal life, would have let those fillies and colts perish to a nightmarish fate,” Toxic growled, “I don’t seek to push my views of right and wrong onto other cultures- but there is a limit to what will be excused by tradition and belief! It was legal in the Badlands to kidnap those foals, to sell them, to….” Dark magic flared around Toxic’s eyes, the leylines becoming tinged crimson for a moment before he got his emotions under control. “I’m just glad I got them out of there unharmed. That is all I want to be able to do. And I didn’t kill anycreature, somehow.” “You showed restraint and mercy to those who may not have deserved it. You acted as Guardian would, even if it was for your own views and what you thought was right,” Granite said. “If you accept our offer as a Guardian, nothing would change. There are levels within such a position, but in general, you would just be expected to continue on as you are doing,” the minotaur then paused, letting out a said breath and laying a massive hand on the stallion’s shoulder. “The main change is that you must take care of yourself more. A Guardian is of no use when their mind and body are broken.” Toxic nodded, not able to refute such a statement. “So, there’s no additional things to do now?” he asked. “Oh, there is plenty to do,” Granite chuckled. “We can officially confirm you a Guardian and grant to you access to the spells and materials you are entitled to. But to understand how to use it all, to fully be aware of past teachings, the history, the specific codes of conduct, that requires some studying. However, due to the circumstances that usual precursor requirement is being waived.” “Before it’s official, the basics are this, Toxic,” Parchment said steadily. “A Guardian is bound to act when there is a threat, in this case, when innocent lives are at stake. That is irrespective of government and borders. This station is one of the most respected, hated, and controversial of our order,” the pony paused, a wry smile twitching at his lips. “But you already know the responsibility of acting of your own accord, don’t you? Given to you from a different ruler.” “How did you-” Toxic began, then shaking his head with a chuckle. “I won’t ask. She’s the only one who knows, outside of maybe Luna and a smattering of others.” “I find it interesting the Solar Empress mirrored aspects of her Guard after our Order,” Granite mused. “But the duties from that, the responsibility is the same. Would you act in the same way now than you did back then? Risk imprisonment, hatred from nations, to save those who cannot defend themselves?” “Yes,” Toxic immediately replied. *end Music* “Then let us continue. I do believe you said something about Nacreous having some ‘awesome armor’?” Parchment laughed. “And before you ask, it can be modified by your Yak counterpart to suit your unique challenges. It is not to be used for your job, however. That is not its primary function. Stopping a blade is one thing, but a chemical bath is quite different.” “I understand.” “Hmm. I imagine so. Now then, before we proceed. Do you accept this offer to be a Guardian within our order, only bound to the responsibilities explained here and not to that which may be revealed on further study?” Parchment asked. “Wait, so…” Toxic asked, obviously not having expected that last part. “We mean, Toxic, that the standards for being a guardian change with time, as do their responsibilities. You should not bear additional burdens at this time. This station is a recognition of what you already have been doing. On acceptance, you will not be asked to do anything outside what you already are asked to do; stepping in to save those who cannot save themselves,” Granite explained. “Your primary task is that of your cutie mark; being a Guardian in that sense. Other instances where your aid is needed are abnormal instances.” “So, no new assignments, no extra calls?” Toxic clarified. “Correct. Your organization alone covers more than chemical threats, does it not?” Granite remarked with a sly grin. “As long as you hold to your goal with the Last Light, you will exceed the requirements of a guardian irrespective of personal actions. As another note, we will be around to aid in your training and further questions as you get acclimated. But eventually Nacreous will be your primary teacher, along with one of his friends to help you master controlling dark magic.” At that, Toxic’s ears flattened, the stallion looking to his hooves. “So, I did use it,” he whispered. “I can’t tell when it happens; how am I still qualified for this position?” “Dark magic is not evil, Toxic Shield,” Torn Parchment explained. “As the elements are the embodiment of ‘positive’ emotions, dark magic is simply the other side of the coin. Love cannot exist without hate, bravery without cowardice. The magic you have been taught as ‘negative’ is nothing more than a neutral force.” Toxic was quiet, soaking up every word. Dark magic was considered heretical among unicorns; never dabble in it, for it would destroy you. “Now, since dark magic is powered by these perceived ‘negative’ emotions, it does open the user to corruption, to be driven by only these darker thoughts. Lose yourself in hatred, and that is all you will see,” Parchment continued. “But you do not use this magic for personal gain. It has been an extension of your connection with the leylines, a natural source of power when you need it.” “So, not a bad thing?” Toxic tentatively suggested. “Not at all. The fact you have such control as to not lose yourself is a fantastic thing. However, as your confirmation as a Guardian will unlock greater spells, more instruction will be necessary to prevent any mistakes and losing yourself to these emotions.” The elderly pony paused, smiling sadly at the stallion. “You have a lot of festering trauma, Toxic. That will make dark magic both incredibly potent, but very dangerous for you to use without instruction. You are at a higher risk than many for potential, and unintentional misuse.” “I understand. I suppose that’s why Celestia had it classified as being restricted magic, trying to suppress any use,” Toxic mused. “Correct,” Parchment replied. “However, you are not the average unicorn. Now, Toxic Shield, will you accept our offer to be a Guardian within our order?” “Yes,” Toxic said immediately, standing up a bit straighter. “Then let us proceed. Now, you must discover of what you are to be a Guardian of in this world.” “Huh? Oh, like Nacreous taking that test?” Toxic asked. “Correct,” Granite chimed in. “When you are ready, simply open your mind to the leylines. The simple meditation exercise Shifting Sands instructed you to do is more than adequate.” *Music Option* https://www.infinitelooper.com/?v=QN9SduuzoC4&p=n#/154;235 The stallion nodded. He sat down, taking a few deep breaths as magic sparked from his horn. Almost immediately, a stream of leyline energy wrapped up around Toxic’s hooves, swirling around his body and head before darting back into the ‘ground.’ “Very good,” Granite rumbled. “Now, this is a bit of a different situation with Clari being here. Usually, the masters and the student, that being you, would commune together and arrive at the same answers. We can do the same thing, but modified slightly. We already know what you are to be the guardian of. However, you must come to that realization yourself. So, Toxic, we ask you this question. What aspects of this world are you to guard with your life? To defend against all adversity? Single words will come to your mind in time. Simply speak the ones you feel to be right.” “If the leylines are like an ocean, these words will be a particularly powerful wave, impossible to ignore,” Parchment instructed. “It may take some time. I have seen tests completed in minutes, others, hours or multiple days. I do not believe it will take that long.” “I understand,” Toxic said calmly, enjoying the ebb and flow of power around his body. For a time, there was nothing, the pony relaxing in the quiet space the leylines provided. No anxieties, worries; nothing but him and this energy. What felt like an electric shock through his hooves and chest made the stallion’s head snap up, eyes wide in surprise. Whoa! “Hope,” he stated, Clari and the two Masters grinning with a simultaneous nod. “Correct. Now, Toxic Shield, you are to be a guardian of more than one attribute, as many as this world needs at this time. Keep listening,” Granite replied. “The strength and peace you will get from this continued exercise is what will sustain you through times of trial. You’ll know what I mean.” It was a lesser shock this time, but just as noticeable. “Innocence,” Toxic whispered, his throat closing up as he spoke. The next word hit with not so much a jolt, but a warmth that nearly overwhelmed the stallion. A peace that he had never known flooded his entire frame, tears abruptly trickling from Toxic’s eyes. In that moment, he was wrapped up in what felt like a hug from somecreature he had never known. Or had only begun to know. “I….” he choked out, managing a wry grin, the word burning in his mind with an intensity that could not be ignored. “Not sure pink is my color…” On not hearing a reply, Toxic wiped his eyes and looked up at the expectant trio. “Love.” Three smiles greeted him, Granite letting out a soft chuckle. “I believe Princess Cadence has a monopoly on the ‘love and pink’ empire,” he said. “But who is to say it cannot be a fiercer color? It does not just encompass romantic love. What is it that prompted you to save those fillies and colts? Your empathy has been tested for years, and yet you remain!” Granite proclaimed. “In a world where emotion can be power, do not discount the influence of love, no matter its form!” Toxic could only smile at that, taking a few deep breaths and standing up. “I think that’s it,” he said softly. “So, I can tap into that force anytime I need help?” The three present individuals nodded, kind smiles blossoming on their features. “Yes,” Granite said, “That feeling by the way? That is the peace and support is the strength of this world, the leylines specific to you giving their aid. You don’t have to keep fighting alone, Toxic. That is what we wanted you to have access to in times of trial whenever you need it.” Clari trotted forward with a trembling smile, nodding to Granite. “There is one more thing,” she said softly. “There is one more title you would not have picked up without this.” She poked his chest and a blast of energy sent the stallion staggering back a step. “What-” Toxic’s eyes widened as the ebb and flow of the ocean he was tapped into became a tsunami, yet even that was but ripples in another ocean that had no end. Leylines on leylines, possibilities on possibilities. A steady pulse ran through his mind, one that had Clari’s voice attached to it. “Life,” she whispered, “Life, and the Leylines. My leyline.” He looked up to see Clari standing before him, lips trembling as she apparently fought back tears “Will you be my Guardian, Toxic Shield?” Clari asked. “Will you guard not only the leylines, but the balance of life itself? Guard it against an emerging threat that seeks to destroy everything you hold dear? You are not here by accident, and yet here you stand by your own efforts. Will you answer this final call?” Toxic felt a few more tears running from his eyes, the warmth returning to flood his entire frame. Peace, actual peace made everything pause for a beautiful brief moment. No worries, no second-guessing, simple acceptance. “Yes!” “Then, Guardian Toxic Shield, stand ready!” Granite proclaimed, sending the butt of his battle axe thudding into the cloudy floor. “Every Guardian is to be armored and equipped. Prepare yourself! This armor will only respond to your call, and only by you can it be dismissed! May it serve you through battle and flame, to protect yourself and the innocent throughout life!” The leylines around Toxic surged upwards, bolts of lightning crackling around his body. A warm pressure surrounded the stallion’s hooves, an excitement flooding his veins as a chain mail began to weave itself over his blue fur. Bolts of arcane magic danced across his body like licks from a thundercloud, metal dancing at their tips. There was an odd pressure in his mind; and with a simple mental prod, the pressure made Toxic’s head spin. Partially pushed to lean on a bent forelimb, the stallion couldn’t help but laugh as the white chainmail covered his entire body. Bolts of arcane energy surged skywards, a solid, rapid pulsing of raw power surrounding the pony. The lighter metal chainmail was abruptly covered by darker plates of armor that slammed into Toxic’s forelimb. The dark, storm-cloud grey worked its way up the stallion’s limbs, a breastplate shoving itself against his chest. The armor weaved itself over the chain mail, plates meshing together like large dragon scales. A full-face helmet clamped down over Toxic’s eyes, the slits glowing as a magical spell made his field of vision expand. Whoa… The armor must have weighed twice as much as he did and yet it felt light as a feather. Toxic immediately recognized some of the spells, similar to that in his current hazard suits. “This armor is the best that we were able to provide to our Guardians,” Granite said proudly. “It has stood the test of time, as it is the same that Paladin Thunderwing uses. It can be modified and upgraded as you see fit, as long as the core elements remain, namely the breastplate. It can withstand everything but the keenest blade and arrow, and spells will be dampened if not outright blocked. It is similar to your hazard suites, lightening the load and offering a wide range of customization,” the minotaur laughed at that. “I look forward to seeing what your Yak friend does!” Toxic grinned, taking a few experimental steps with the armor. “Oh, I have a few ideas,” he chuckled. “Paladin Thunderwing can instruct you on summoning and dismissing your armor. For now, our time is concluded,” Parchment said calmly. “We will meet again soon, Guardian Toxic Shield! Clari?” The mare stepped forwards, pointing to Toxic’s breastplate. “Look at yourself, Toxic,” she said, a mirror snapping into reality. “You have chosen your own symbol.” Toxic felt tears well up in his eyes on seeing his armored frame, but more specifically, the icon that shone brightly in a gold outline. It was a symbol that adorned every building on his island; a lighthouse emblazoned on a shield. “Your organization is not the only Light in this world, Toxic,” Clari said kindly. “And it is customary for Guardians to have a rank, a different nickname to be used only in times of great trial. You can be referred to just this name, or as ‘Guardian,’ followed by the name. You have to option of requesting a different one if needs be, but it is usually chosen by those present in the Judgement period. Your symbol will be modified to reflect such.” Toxic nodded, standing at the ready proudly. “Like this creature, you have passed through so much death and destruction, and refined yourself into a better stallion; reborn as it were,” Granite said with a wry smile. “We wish to impart to you the name of Phoenix, for as you literally rose from the ashes of Oakbark, you re-made yourself into a force of good in this world!” Toxic felt a lump rise in his throat, nodding firmly. “I accept!” “Then stand and see your Guardian name engraved on your armor!” Looking into the mirror again, Toxic watched as two golden wings spread out from the center of the breastplate, reaching down in a protective pose around the shield and lighthouse symbols, a simple raptor-like head etching itself on the top of the entire emblem. *End Music* “Phoenix, your initiation is complete,” Master Granite said with finality. “We now release you to Paladin Thunderwing to complete the second portion, that of being introduced to the various spells that can aid you in times of trial. In addition, he alone knows what you can tell anyone else about this position. What you have learned here, especially the Judgement portion, is to not be revealed except to those with whom you would trust with such knowledge. It is not to be shared casually, but treated with the utmost respect. Many creatures will not understand what has transpired. Ask Paladin Thunderwing for any clarification on the matter.” Toxic bowed his head towards the Masters, the two returning the gesture in kind. “Thank you, Master Granite, Master Parchment, and Clari,” Toxic said respectfully, the aforementioned mare sniffling. “S-sorry. I’m j-just so happy!” she managed to say. Toxic grinned, then gestured to his armor briefly. “How do I…?” “Simply will it to fade, for the armor to stand at the ready. It will answer your mental call,” Parchment said. Toxic nodded, taking a few breaths- And promptly caught fire. The pony yelped, then let out a laugh, the armor flaming away with blue fire as though cotton caught in a blaze. “That, is so COOL!” he exclaimed, watching as the last of his suit burned away, then regaining his composure to bow his head again. “Uh, sorry.” “It is pretty impressive. Every individual has a different summoning and dismissing effect of the armor,” Parchment agreed with a chuckle. “We do have to bid you farewell, Toxic Shield. It has been a pleasure meeting you, and well speak again.” The pony then paused, tossing over a stone object with a surprisingly excited grin. “By the way, can you give this to Nacreous? Just tell him that the Order should be like your nickname. I think the implication should be obvious,” the elder stallion’s eyes then brimmed with tears, a brief flame of hope igniting in their depths. “Perhaps in time your Organization can become what we never could.” Toxic flashed a determined grin, briefly examining the stone key before nodding as he offered another formal bow, and the two Masters vanished with a wave, leaving Clari and Toxic alone. “Before I transfer us back to the others, I just wanted to say something to you,” Clari whispered. “Hmm?” “I just wanted to say I’m sorry again. I know it’s so much of a burden, this new threat that is still a mystery, and I really really am sorry I couldn’t help more, I just- I hope you can hold on, I tried my hardest and I- The rambling mare was wrapped up in a brief hug, the Leyline entity staring at Toxic in surprise. “Clari, it’s ok,” the stallion said sincerely. “You saved my life by warning me of that assassination. I should be thanking you.” His words must have had a greater impact than the stallion realized, because Clari began to cry softly, nodding as she waved a hoof. The cloudy room vanished, and Toxic was abruptly placed back in front of a surprised Nacreous, Shifting, Celestia, and Luna. “Back so soon?” Nacreous asked, then let out a chuckle. “Let me guess, it has been much longer than ten minutes for you?” Toxic grinned, nodding to the Paladin. “Just a bit.” “So, do I call you anything else, Toxic Shield?” Nacreous asked, gesturing to the two royal sisters. “You can reveal what happened there to both myself and them.” The two alicorns were looking at him curiously, and Toxic couldn’t resist a bit of flare. Please work please work… With a mental request, a breastplate clamped itself over Toxic’s chest, the stallion standing proudly in front of the four larger individuals. Worth it. “I am the Guardian of Hope,” Toxic said with finality, a confident grin on his face refusing to leave. “Of Innocence, of Life,” his expression softened, looking towards the Paladin. “And of Love. My other name is Phoenix.” Nacreous burst out laughing, summoning his own armor as the two Sisters looked on in amusement. “Then, Guardian Phoenix, let us train you a bit in that armor and the spells you are entitled to use!” Nacreous then paused, letting out an embarrassed mumble at seeing Luna raise a hoof. “Uh, and first explain what exactly happened in there to the two lovely mares.” Toxic nodded, then levitating a stone key over to Nacreous. “Master Parchment said I should give this to you, with the message ‘the Order should be like my nickname.’ Pretty sure I know what that means. I guess we’re going the be the first of many?” Nacreous took the key, the large hippogriff seeming suddenly a lot smaller. The Emperor wiped his eyes, clearly shaken and struggling to hold back tears- but they weren’t of sadness. “Thank you, Toxic,” he whispered. “It seems that you are correct. The Order isn’t as lost as I thought. More on that later, I think we need to explain a few things. I think you should not speak of the Judgement portion. That is a very personal matter; only divulged to a select few of your own choosing, those whom you’d trust your life to.” Toxic nodded, collecting his thoughts before going into rough detail of what happened. Yet one thought refused to leave, one that made the exhaustion and fear leave the Stallion in an instant, a familiar warmth and comfort filling his entire frame and making doubt and anxiety flee. I’m a Guardian! Across desert and ocean, a shadowy figure felt a disturbing chill run down its spine. Summoning up a portal, the fanged individual let out an abrupt growl. “He must not be allowed to be trained! Do you understand me! You are ordered to act NOW!” “Highness, I don’t understand, who?” the gryphon asked, clearly unsettled at seeing his Master so… Afraid? “Who else!? Capture the stallion. Attempt extraction of his resistance to our weapon. When you have succeeded or if you can’t extract anything, kill him!” “I-right away, Highness! This is sudden, my forces will need at least a few days to get in position however,” the Bringer then paused. “What of the gryphon he is usually with?” “I don’t care. Capture her for leverage to force his compliance, then kill her as well.” Fangs then parted, desperation leaking through the creature’s voice. “GO! He must be stopped!” As the portal faded, the gryphon scrambling to relay orders, a second voice chuckled from in the room, a smaller figure trotting over to the shadowy apparition with a sly grin. “You are right to fear him. This does not bode well for us.” The shadow could only hiss at that, white eyes darting back in forth in thought. “That wretched, meddling mare. She and her sister….” “I warned you. Do not underestimate ponies, least of all him.” “And you were correct. Not that such a statement will ever leave this room.” “Of course not, but it doesn’t matter. My failure is your failure.” The shadow grinned at that. “We will have our victory, all in due time.” And yet the statement was said with much less confidence than previous utterances. As Celestia listened to Toxic’s explanation, excitement was surging through her veins. It had been so long since a brand-new form of magic had been explored, explained; it was fascinating! Suddenly, everything froze. Blinking in surprise, Celestia’s view was now of a parchment on her desk, a certain, sour-tasting project title visible. “It won’t work.” Clari’s voice drew Celestia’s attention, the pair now back in the strange cloud realm. “What?” Celestia asked, checking her passive defensive spells out of habit. Clari seemed almost angry. But then that sense faded, sincere concern and sadness radiating from the leyline mare’s frame. “Your emergency measures. The last resort spell and runic inscriptions you hope never to use on Toxic,” Clari explained. “It won’t work unless I allow it. Such a spell requires leyline energy, more than can be drawn naturally.” Her eyes then grew as sharp an obsidian, the mare not looking away from the Solar Empress. “I will stop you if you dare use it on Toxic against his will!” “I would NEVER!” Celestia exploded, fire dancing through her mane. “Don’t you dare suggest I’d curse such a creature like that! I know the agony of an ageless life, who do you think you are, to…” her words trailed off, a sad smile on Clari’s face. “I’m sorry, but I had to be sure,” Clari whispered. “I know you wouldn’t. That’s why I’m not worried. If anyone can understand the burden of that spell, it’s you and Luna. I just had to check; my sister was not as trusting as I am.” She then paused, Celestia’s rage fading. “I know how painful it has been. But at least you’re not alone, not in the previous sense.” The mare looked over to Nacreous with a smile. “I am happy for you, and I hope you forgive me for that test. But such a spell meddles in a power that could disrupt the flow of life itself for a pony. That warranted my attention and concern.” “I understand,” Celestia finally said with a sigh. “I’d be lying if I wouldn’t have done something similar. For what it is worth, I promise I’d never use such a spell on Toxic, or any creature without their permission,” she then paused, letting out a sad sigh, “or at least somecreature else who could vouch with utter certainty for such a decision.” Her wings drooped slightly at that. “As I’ve learned with Toxic, I certainly can’t trust my own decisions to have his best interests at heart.” Celestia found Clari looking up at her kindly, the leyline entity shaking her head. “You are a ruler, Princess Celestia,” Clari stated. “You bear a burden few can understand. To value the one above the many, in your case, would be to doom a nation. I take no issue with your words, and your promise still bears a great deal of weight with me.” “Thank you, Clari,” the Alicorn whispered, “That means quite a bit.” “I know,” Clari grinned, gesturing to Nacreous. “Know that I am watching over you all too. You’re not alone in all of this.” The scene then sped back up, Toxic continuing to explain his experience. Celestia made a mental note to relay the experience to Nacreous, Shifting, and Luna. I’m not alone, that means so much more now than it did a decade ago. The Princess couldn’t help but scoot a bit close to Nacreous, letting her shoulder graze his own for a bit of simple, physical comfort. The action didn’t go unnoticed by the Paladin, his keen gaze flickering over to her briefly. Ironic, in a way. Those of us with a great deal of power are delegated to watch while a mortal pony leads the charge against this threat. Perhaps that is how it should be. That thought made a lump rise in Celestia’s throat, Twilight and her friends coming to mind. Perhaps that’s how it should be at times.