//------------------------------// // Chapter 23 - Aftermath // Story: The Equestrian Odyssey - A Tale of Two Worlds // by Kamahido //------------------------------// Arc looks around at the scene before him. Numerous nurses and Doctor Horse along with Nurse Redheart tend to the wounded. Pegasi paramedics airlift several Royal Guards to Ponyville Hospital. Twilight and her friends stand with him. Applejack frowns as she looks around the yard. “What a mess.” Pinkie giggles. “Yeah! This place is trashed!” Rarity sighs. “We’ll get to work cleaning it up after a bit of a rest, Arc.” “That won’t be necessary. This event marks the end of the summit.” He looks around at the devastation from the battle. “Besides, everyone is going home tomorrow morning. We’re not fixing everything just so they can walk by it on their way to the ships.” Twilight turns to him. “What happened to the stallions from the Nightborn?” Rainbow Dash points a hoof at The Equinox which is parked on its landing pad. “They went to see Princess Luna.” Rarity turns to Arc. “Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Arc shrugs. “They asked for a meeting, and she agreed.” Applejack frowns. “What do you suppose for?” Twilight frowns. “Their reasons for doing things are almost as mysterious as they themselves are.” Arc nods. “Agreed. I didn’t really like them showing up. But we really did need their help to win this time.” Shining Armor walks over to Arc and salutes. “Report, captain.” “Everypony has been accounted for. No fatalities, sir.” Rarity smiles. “What a relief!” Rainbow Dash grins. “Yeah! Considering what happened, none of us should have walked away from the battle!” Twilight turns to her brother. “What about injuries? “Fifteen seriously injured guards. None critical, though.” “Will they recover?” “With some rest in the hospital, yes sir.” Applejack smiles. “That’s good. And Tempest?” Shining Armor frowns. “Taken to Ponyville Hospital.” Rainbow Dash grits her teeth. “I still don’t get why you wanted that harpy to go anywhere other than the dungeon, Arc!” “She was injured and very weak.” Twilight gasps. “But she’ll regenerate, right?” “Theoretically, yes. I’ve never seen her not do so. But then again she’s also never been so badly beaten before.” Rarity furrows her brow. “While I know it’s not very lady-like, I certainly wouldn’t feel bad if she had to stay in a hospital bed for a while.” Shining Armor nods. “Agreed. But I assume she’ll rest a bit before leaving yet again.” Applejack scowls. “Good riddance, I say.” Arc sighs as he looks around. “What happened to Fluttershy?” Rarity points down the path. “Prince Tugem said he’d take her home.” Arc raises an eyebrow. “He did?” Applejack nods. “Yup. I guess he was really impressed by what he saw.” Rainbow Dash grins. “So were we!” Pinkie puts up her hooves in a mock battle-stance. “Yeah! We all knew Fluttershy was tough when she needed to be!” Twilight nods soberly. “I’ve heard that before. But until tonight I just thought it was something anypony would do if they had to. She really went all out!” Arc turns to the others. “That she did. Anyone care to explain to me how?” Rainbow Dash shrugs. “I’ve known Fluttershy the longest. You try to hurt one of her animals and she gets brave FAST!” Shining Armor looks confused. “What about her sudden increase in speed and strength?” “That was new. I mean, adrenaline doesn’t make you do things like that… right?” Arc shrugs. “To the best of my knowledge, no. Twilight?” “I’ve never read anything that described anything like it.” Applejack raises an eyebrow. “No magical spell, or anything?” Rarity sighs. “Magic has its limits.” Pinkie shrugs. “I suppose it does! But Fluttershy’s a pegasus!” Arc turns to Rainbow Dash. “What about your Sonic Rainboom? Isn’t that magic?” “Not really.” Twilight nods. “But it is something that only you can do.” “I guess. But I always thought of it more like skill and training versus magic.” Rarity puts a hoof to her chin. “That does make sense. However, just because nopony other that a unicorn can use magic doesn’t mean it’s impossible.” Arc nods. “True. Other creatures have magic too. Like the Forsaken Tribe and dragons.” Applejack chuckles. “And you too, Arc.” “Yes. But I was artificially imbued with my power.” Twilight turns to him. “Agreed. However you’ve been able to hone your skills beyond that which would be possible for either a unicorn or a dragon.” Shining Armor chuckles. “Practice makes perfect, Twily.” “That may be, brother. But I’ve never heard of anypony achieving the level of magical mastery as fast as Arc has.” Arc pulls down his red headband to reveal the gem in his forehead. “These are probably partially to blame for that.” Rarity walks over to Arc as he kneels down. She looks at the crystal for a moment. “If nothing else, they made a wonderful accessory. But Applejack tells us they’re so much more.” “Right. When you bought apples for the Abyssinians, I remember that gem lighting up right before your magical powers skyrocketed.” “Yeah. The problem is doing that REALLY drains my mana pool.” Twilight puts a hoof to her chin. “They’re certainly a curiosity. When you have time, I’d like to study them further, Arc.” “Do you still believe they’re somehow connected to the Elements of Harmony?” Twilight nods. “I do. After all, nothing has yet disproven my theory.” Rainbow Dash frowns. “But why didn’t any of the other Elements react with them?” Pinkie frowns. “Rainbow Dash is right! Only the Element of Magic glowed with the gem in Arc’s forehead!” Shining Armor turns to his sister. “It may be due to his powerful magical powers. Tell me, Twily. Do you believe Arc’s magical abilities rival yours?” Twilight smiles sheepishly. “Truthfully, I think he became more powerful than I quite some time ago.” “Then maybe it senses his power and is accepting him as a potential bearer of the Element of Magic.” “Maybe. But that’s something I’d like to study more. Nopony else has ever had a connection to the Elements. Other than Princess Celestia when she banished Nightmare Moon, that is.” Arc gestures to the building. “Why don’t we head inside and talk more about this over a snack?” Shining Armor laughs. “The rest of the summit attendees are already doing that.” Pinkie gasps. “They’re having a party without us?! Come on, everypony! Let’s get in there!” Pinkie hops through the doorway as Arc shrugs and motions for the others to follow him. “Shining Armor, tell all non-essential guards to get some rest. They’ve certainly earned it after all this.” “Yes sir.” Meanwhile, Fluttershy and Tugem walk down the path toward her cottage together. The prince holds a ball of flame in his hand to light their way. “Thank you for walking me home, Prince Tugem.” “It is my pleasure, Miss Fluttershy. After all, it’s not every day that I have the chance to speak to one as well-known as you.” Fluttershy shakes her head. “But I’m nopony special.” “You are more so than you realize.” “Because I’m an Element Bearer?” “There is that, yes. However I was not referring to your Element.” “Then what…?” Tugem interrupts her. “Your name is spoken in reverence in the circles we ogres walk in.” “Social circles?” “Yes.” “But I thought ogres were rather reclusive to ponies.” “That we are. However, just because we do not speak to ponykind does not mean we are ill-informed.” “I’m sorry. I meant no disrespect, sir.” “None was taken. You may not understand this, but we ogres are naturally one with the land and those whom dwell within it. Especially those whom do not have a… voice. At least one that is easily heard by your species.” Fluttershy appears surprised. “Ogres can talk to animals too?!” Tugem chuckles. “Yes. We can hear and communicate with them just as you can.” “But how did you know I could talk to animals?” “From our own animal friends. Your name is constantly on the winds, Miss Fluttershy.” “It is? How?” “Tell me… does ponykind speak to one another?” “Of course.” “What about?” “Oh, many things. Friendship, the weather, local and national news… that sort of thing.” “It may not come as a great surprise to you, but the animals to the same.” “I did know that. But wasn’t aware news traveled via them. Tell me, how do they do it? I don’t suppose the woodland creatures write one another letters.” Tugem laughs. “Nature has no written word, no. However, they are able to spread news via word of mouth and even on the winds themselves if need be.” “This is fascinating! And they even talk about me?!” “Yes. You are not traditionally referred to as Fluttershy however.” “Oh? And why not?” “Out of respect, nature’s creatures have seen fit to give you a special title.” Fluttershy blushes slightly. “I see. And may I ask what it is?” “Mother.” “What?! But why?!” “You are known for your care and great respect of nature. To them, you are their protector.” “But Arc and the princesses are the ones whom protect this land. Not me.” “That may be. But they do not see it that way. International disputes, treaties, peace summits… these things mean nothing to them.” “So what’s important to them?” “The balance of nature, peace, and harmony above all.” “How do you know all this?! I mean, you said earlier ogres are one with nature. What does that mean exactly?” “That we can listen and respond to the land and its inhabitants. Nothing more, nothing less.” “Is that how you called for help during the battle?” Tugem nods. “Yes. Ogres are the caretakers of the land itself. As crown prince of my tribe I have the right to call for their aid at any time.” “Is that why so many came at your command?” Tugem nods. “We defend the land. The creatures know that if we call for help, the situation is indeed dire.” “How has nopony heard of this?” “Many years ago it was common knowledge. However the pony races became divided and fought with one another. Not willing to take a side in the conflict, we were forgotten over the generations.” “I’m sorry for that. There must be so much we can teach one another.” “That there is.” “Um… can I ask you something?” “Go ahead.” “How… exactly did you defeat that bad stallion during the battle? Was it magic?” “Yes. But not magic as you know it.” Tugem points to his forehead. “As you can see, I don’t have a horn like a unicorn.” “Then how did you do that?” “We are one with the creatures of the land. But also with the elements themselves.” He gestures to the flame in his palm. “Fire for light in this case.” “And during your fight?” “Wind to put him where I wanted. Earth to trap and injure him. Fire to finish the task.” Fluttershy shudders. “I’m sure he was a very bad stallion, judging by Arc’s response when he saw him. But… was it really necessary for you to do what you did?” Tugem grimaces. “Yes. He used the power of Shadow.” “Another element?” “Think of it more as a power that works against nature. It cannot be used for beneficial means. Only destruction.” “Huh?” “Shadow Magic gets its power from those whom harbor darkness in their hearts. If allowed to continue unchecked it would destroy the land, the creatures, and eventually even the ponies whom dwell here.” Fluttershy sighs. “I just don’t understand.” “I am sorry if my methods were distasteful to you. However, I will do whatever it takes to protect the innocent from harm.” Tugem stops and looks down at Fluttershy. “As you yourself do in your own way.” “Oh, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to do what you do, sir.” “I’m certain you could if need be. After all, everyone saw what you’re capable of earlier.” Yes, well… I may have gone a bit overboard there.” “Really? I think you did quite well holding back.” Fluttershy looks to him, confused. “Holding… back?” Tugem kneels down to look Fluttershy in the eye. “Miss Fluttershy, as an ogre I can see that which is beyond normal sight.” “What kind of things?” Tugem looks her in the eye soberly. “I know exactly who you really are.” Fluttershy looks away nervously. “Wha… what do you mean?” Tugem leans forward and whispers something in her ear. The blood drains from Fluttershy’s face as she takes a step back. “H-how…?” “As you know, magic is an intangible force that surrounds and regulates everything to a degree. While invisible to most, I can see its comings and goings as clearly as you might watch a robin soar through the air.” Fluttershy sighs. “I suppose it must be a letdown for you.” “How so?” “Knowing… you know.” “Not really.” “Huh?” “Knowing your secret, and judging you for it, are two very different things. You are no danger to the balance of nature, nor a threat to the land.” “So what happens now?” Tugem stands back up. “I continue walking you home. I’m sure you’re tired after the activities of this evening.” “A bit. But… um…” “You are worried.” “I am, yes.” “Do not be afraid. I will keep your secret.” Fluttershy breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you.” Tugem nods as the cottage comes into view. “You are a friend to the land and the animals. It is the least I can do.” Meanwhile, Arc and the others walk down a corridor of Light’s Hope together. He turns toward his quarters. “Let me get cleaned up and I’ll meet you there.” Pinkie hops away. “Don’t take too long, Arc!” Rainbow Dash laughs. “Yeah! We’ll have all the good snacks eaten!” Rarity smiles at him. “Take all the time you need. I’ll save you something, dear.” “Thanks. I’ll try to be quick.” Arc enters his quarters as the others walk down the corridor. Applejack turns to her friend. “What was that about, Rarity?” “Saving him a cupcake or two is just common decency.” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “I think she meant the part about you calling Arc ‘dear’.” “Oh! Um… well… you see… I just...” Pinkie turns back. “Are you and Arc an item now?!” “…kinda.” The five of them stop walking as Rainbow Dash lands and raises an eyebrow. “What do you mean ‘kinda’?” “Before the summit, I had him over to my place for supper.” Applejack nods. “The night Sweetie Belle came to Sweet Apple Acres for her sleepover?” “Yes. I… originally just wanted to do something to make up for… what you and I did that day some time ago, Applejack.” Applejack blushes. “I’m kinda trying to forget that.” Pinkie sighs. “We all are.” Twilight looks confused. “But what’s wrong with having him over for supper?” “Well… I know how everypony feels about him, and all. But… I kinda wanted the same.” Rainbow Dash looks to Twilight. “That’s normal though. Right?” Twilight nods. “Yes. However you still haven’t answered my question, Rarity.” “I just feel so guilty! It’s like I’m trying to monopolize him. At least in my mind.” Applejack smiles warmly. “So things went well, huh?” “Yes, very much so! Even with my… mistake.” Pinkie shrugs. “Nopony’s perfect! Don’t beat yourself up over every small detail!” Rarity sighs. “Well, this was a big one.” Twilight giggles. “How bad could it have been?” “I… spilled an entire pot of tea on his back.” Rainbow Dash grimaces. “Ouch! Hopefully it wasn’t freshly brewed.” “It was straight off the stove.” Applejack’s eyes grow wide. “Woah! That must’ve hurt!” Rarity looks down at her hooves. “More so than you know. He was protecting me at the time.” Twilight raises an eyebrow. “Protecting you?” “The pot should have hit me. But he took the burn instead as he blocked it with his own body. I rushed him into the shower to help, but the damage was done.” Rainbow Dash shakes her head. “I’m sure Arc doesn’t hold that against you.” Applejack puts a reassuring hoof on Rarity’s shoulder. “Yeah. He’s very forgiving. Hopefully you had something for him to wear after the shower.” “I… didn’t.” Pinkie gasps. “Really?! Nothing at all?!” “Just some undergarments he’d asked for a few days prior.” Applejack appears nervous. “So… what DID he wear?” Twilight nods. “Yes, I can’t picture Arc going without garments. We all know just how picky he is in that regard.” Rarity blushes slightly. “Just the undergarments.” Pinkie grins. “Wow, really?! So you actually SAW him bare?!” Rarity giggles nervously “Kinda.” Rainbow Dash leers at her friend. “Care to tell us what you saw?” Applejack blushes. “Rainbow Dash!” “Come on! Anypony could see that we ALL want to know!” Pinkie leans in close to Rarity. “Tell us, how did his skin feel?!” “What?!” Twilight frowns. “Pinkie, I’m sure Rarity didn’t get THAT close to Arc when he was uncovered.” “Well… I actually did.” Applejack’s eyes grow wide. “Come again?” Rarity sighs. “Sweetie Belle told me she wanted him to be her father. I originally laughed at the idea. But the more I thought about it, the more it intrigued me. That was the real reason I invited him over that night.” Rainbow Dash’s jaw drops. “You mean… you intended to do THAT with him?!” “No, no! I had just intended to snuggle up to him on the couch after tea and cake while we talked.” Twilight sighs. “And things kinds went from there, huh?” Rarity nods. “We never had dessert thanks to my accident. After the shower I… may have asked him to sleep with me.” Pinkie laughs. “I’m sure that request went over well with Arc!” “It… kinda did.” Pinkie stops laughing. “…what?” “I already told all of you the truth about how I’m actually Sweetie Belle’s mother. That event made me rather distrustful of dating and everything that comes with it. I just… I just wanted a stallion that Sweetie Belle could look up to as her father.” Applejack shakes her head.. “And you felt getting Arc in bed with you was important why?” “Because I realized he could give me the one thing I’ve always lacked.” Twilight looks confused. “What’s that?” “Stability.” Rainbow Dash frowns. “Say what now?” “He could be Sweetie Belle’s father AND be the one I’m finally able to be… intimate with.” Applejack smiles at her. “Wow! I… don’t think anypony knew just how much you liked Arc, Rarity.” “Neither did I until that night. Originally it was just for Sweetie Belle’s sake. But as he held me in his arms… I just felt like I was melting into him. The warmth of his skin, the soothing touch of his fingers in my mane… and even his scent were intoxicating!” She sighs before continuing. “I know all of you feel the same way about him, and I want to say that none of this was my original intent. But… things just kinda happened.” Twilight looks to Rarity nervously. “So… are you in love with him?” “I… I don’t know.” Rainbow Dash raises an eyebrow. “After all that, you don’t know?!” “Easy there, sugarcube. If what happened to Rarity had happened to you, I think you’d feel the same way.” “Everypony… I’m so very sorry for this, but… I really want to get to know him better.” Rarity looks down at her hooves sadly. “This must certainly come as a shock to all of you. And I understand if anypony’s angry at me for wanting him for myself, but…” Applejack interrupts her. “Now just hold your horses there, Rarity. Nopony here holds this against you.” Rainbow Dash grins. “Right! I mean… it’s not like we’ll stop being your friends or anything over this!” Pinkie nods. “Yeah! We just want him to be happy! Arc deserves a special somepony like you!” Twilight sighs. “That he does. All of us will be very happy for you two should you decide to start officially dating.” “Really? But… but I thought all of you… well…” Applejack sighs. “We all care for him. But only one mare can have him, right?” Twilight nods. “Yes. And as the Element Bearers, we need to stand united in all things. Even matters of the heart.” Rainbow Dash frowns. “Jealousy has no place amongst friends!” Pinkie nods with conviction. “That’s right! We can’t let anything come between us! Not even this!” All of them surround Rarity and nuzzle her. “Thank you everypony! It means a lot that my friends are willing to support my decision. I know it can’t be easy.” Twilight forces a smile. “We’re your friends, Rarity. But I just want you to remember one thing.” “Oh?” “Whether or not Arc chooses you, or any one of us, is entirely up to him. We need to be supportive of his wants and needs too.” Rainbow Dash nods happily. “Yeah! If he were to decide on somepony else, we should be happy for them.” Rarity smiles. “Yes, I agree. It’s so nice to have such amazing friends! But what about Fluttershy?” Twilight looks out a window. “I’m sure she’d agree if she were here. She is the Element of Kindness, after all.” Applejack sighs. “That may be. But somepony should bring her up to speed on all this tomorrow.” Rainbow Dash looks to the others. “I’ll fly over and talk to her about it. Fluttershy’s not the jealous type anyways.” Pinkie nods. “Right! But she deserves to know what happened between Arc and Rarity!” Rarity sighs. “I’ll stop over there tomorrow morning as well.” Rainbow Dash recoils. “Morning? I was thinking more along the lines of early afternoon.” Applejack looks to Rainbow Dash. “Why’s that?” Rainbow Dash grins as she looks down the corridor toward the sounds of laughter coming from the Dining Room. “Because we’re all going to be up late partying tonight!” They all smile and continue down the corridor together.