The Equestrian Odyssey - A Tale of Two Worlds

by Kamahido


Chapter 12 - Night Out

A short time later Arc returns to his parent’s room. Max is waiting for him, unmoved, in his chair.

“Lily says she’ll make sure Shelly is ready to go at seven.”

Max nods nervously. “Y-yes sir.”

“You okay?”

“While you were gone it occurred to me that I’ve never taken anypony out on a date before!”

“First, remember it’s any ONE. Second, neither has Shelly.”

Max appears surprised. “Really?”

“Yes.”

“A pretty mare like her?!”

Arc shakes his head. “Woman, Max. You’re really slipping in the human vocabulary department here.”

“Sorry, sir. It’s just… I’m so nervous!”

“Look, Shelly is really understanding. That and since she doesn’t know what to do either that should make her very forgiving as well.”

Arc walks over to his closet and pulls out a suit. Max gasps.

“Sir, is that…?”

“Yes, Max. This is the outfit I wore on my date with Princess Luna. I’d like you to wear it tonight.”

“But it was custom tailored for you!”

“True. But you and I are pretty close in size and stature. That and Shelly will be wearing a nice dress, so you’ll need to look your best as well. Remember, you don’t have anything that’s what I would call ‘date-worthy’.”

“I… yes sir. Thank you.”

He accepts the outfit nervously.

“Um… what do I do to get ready?”

“Start with a good shower. Afterwards I’ll help make you look presentable.”

Max hurries out of the room but returns a few moments later to salute Arc before rushing out again. Arc chuckles.

“He’s certainly driven.”

Cherry giggles. “Like you were before your big date?”

“I wasn’t that bad. Was I?”

“Yes. But for different reasons.”

“How so?”

“He’s worried about going out with a mare… female who just so happens to be like family to his commanding officer. You were nervous about going out with the most temperamental princess of Equestria.”

“Wait! I thought you were talking about my date with Rarity.”

“No, you handled that one flawlessly.”

“Thanks. I just… hey!”

“Hm?”

“That night out with Luna wasn’t a date!”

“Really?”

“Yes. It was just an evening of relaxation for her.”

“I wasn’t there, of course. But I saw the events of that night in your memories, Arc.”

“So you saw that nothing happened?”

“Well, I wouldn’t say that.”

Arc groans. “I assure you I was a total gentleman! Besides, I’m not getting mixed up in a relationship with royalty! Think of the rumors that would circulate!”

“Yes, I’m sure the idle ponies of Canterlot would talk. However, you really made her evening special.”

“That was kinda the point.”

“In any case, you and her have a very distinct relationship.”

Arc raises an eyebrow. “Distinct in what way?”

“You’re probably the only being in Equestria who doesn’t grovel and look at her with fear in their eyes.”

“Why would I? She’s not a bad individual.”

“Remember, it wasn’t that long ago that she was still Nightmare Moon. Ponies will remember that fact for years to come.”

Arc sighs. “Yes, I read that in one of the history books I borrowed from the Golden Oaks Library.”

“Their fear isn’t completely unwarranted, you know. She had wanted to overthrow Princess Celestia and cover the land in eternal night.”

“So now that she’s sitting on the throne, they feel she may yet carry out her former plan?”

“It is in the back of everyone’s mind, yes. But there’s another thought that balances it out.”

“Oh?”

“The knowledge that our land’s Hero of Light wouldn’t let that happen.”

Arc grins. “Yeah. After all… it’s my job to take down a renegade princess should one go astray, or so Luna tells me. But everyone needs to keep in mind that she’s not sitting at the head of the nation alone. Remember, Princess Cadance is right there with her.”

Cherry sighs. “She’s seen more as a figurehead than a ruling monarch.”

“Her age?”

“Yes.”

“Are you saying no one is giving her a chance?”

“Partially. However if she wants to be seen as a more than just Princess Celestia’s niece, she needs to assert herself more.”

“Really?”

“Yes. That’s what Equestria needs right now. Strong leadership.”

Arc frowns. “Are you sure that’s what she wants?”

“What do you…?”

“I mean are you sure that crown on her head was something she took because she wanted to become a princess, or because she felt that was what others wanted? Remember that night we followed her out of the castle gardens?”

Cherry giggles. “Her nighttime rendezvous with the Captain of the Guard?”

Arc nods. “Right. Don’t you remember what she said?”

“That she wanted freedom?”

“Yes.”

“I just assumed she meant the freedom to choose whom she could be with.”

Arc frowns. “And at the time I thought the same. But this conversation has led me to rethink that. She’s the Princess of Love, after all. Doing what is needed for the country over her own needs just comes naturally to her I would guess.”

“Truth be told, I never thought about it like that, Arc. The princesses just always seemed as if they were on another level entirely.”

“Yes, well… I can tell you from personal experience that they have feelings of doubt and fear just like anyone else.”

“They always seem to have it together though!”

“That’s a façade, Cherry. I can attest to that.”

“Your time as Lord Regent?”

Arc nods sadly. “Yes.”

“You regret some decisions made back then?”

“Just one.”

He is silent for a time before continuing.

“If I could go back… I would have loved to spend more time with you.”

“I would have liked that too, Arc. But the past is in the past. We can’t change it.”

“Yeah, I suppose not.”

A short time later Max returns. He nervously walks over to Arc for inspection>

“Is this adequate, sir?”

“Not yet. But I’ll help with that. There’s something in the chest pocket of your jacket that should help.

Max reaches a hand into the black folds of the material. A moment later he pulls out a black piece of cloth.

“What’s this, sir?”

“It’s a tie. Here, let me show you how it works.”

Putting the tie around Max’s neck Arc quickly puts the knot in and straightens it.

“There. Now we need to fix your hair.”

Cherry sounds confused. “Fix?”

“Comb it and put some gel in it.”

Max grimaces. “I’m not sure what that means, sir.”

“Let’s head to the bathroom and I’ll show you.”

They walk down the hall. Entering the still somewhat steaming room Arc picks up a bottle from a shelf and turns back to Max as he hands it to him.

“This stuff is kinda old. But it should still be usable.”

“What is it, sir?”

“Hair gel. It helps your hair hold its shape through the evening. Now then, open it and put a bit in your hand.”

Max does so as Arc continues.

“Now run your hand through your hair like this.”

Arc demonstrates as Max does his best to copy him.

“That’s it. Disperse it thoroughly. Then comb your hair backwards.”

“Backwards, sir?”

“I know it sounds strange, but let me show you.”

He picks up the comb and slicks back Max’s hair.

“There. What do you think?”

Max grins as he looks in the mirror. “That looks pretty good!”

Arc reaches for another bottle. “Next we’ll put a bit of this on you.”

“What’s that?”

“Some light cologne. Shelly gave it to me a few years ago for Christmas. Said she liked the way it smelled at the store. Think of it like perfume for guys.”

Max sniffs himself and makes a face.

“Are you sure about this?”

Arc shrugs as the pair head back to Arc’s parent’s room. “I’m not much for such things myself. But Shelly must’ve really liked it to buy it for me. She’s not usually much for perfume or cologne.”

“Anything else, sir?”

“Keep your jacket buttoned up. It makes you look more dignified.”

“Do I wear my normal shoes?”

Arc shakes his head. “No, no! I have dress shoes in the closet.”

He turns to get them as Max sits down in his chair again.

“I’m not sure if I can do this, sir!”

“You’ve come this far.”

Cherry gasps. “Yes! That and Shelly would be heartbroken if you cancelled now!”

“Miss Cherry, can you tell me anything about what mares want in a date?”

“I’m not really sure, as Arc and I never had time to actually go on one before my death.”

Arc sighs as he hands over a pair of black dress shoes. “Don’t remind me.”

“What about your date with Princess Luna, sir? Is there any advice you could give me on what to do or say?”

“That really depends on the girl. What one likes might make someone else upset.”

Cherry giggles. “You know Shelly better than anyone though, Arc.”

“Yeah. But as a friend. Not so much date material. So take what I’m about to tell you with a grain of salt.”

“Yes sir.”

Arc thinks for a moment before continuing.

“Shelly likes kind people. That’s probably why you and her get along so well. You already know she a big fan of dogs, like Sereb. Get her talking about cooking, or food in general, and she won’t stop.”

“So that’s bad?”

Arc shrugs. “Depends on how much time you have. Just don’t let her get too excited about anything or she’ll tire herself out.”

“Okay. Uh… what should I do if that happens?”

“Take her home and put her to bed. Lily can help you with that.”

“Yes sir.”

“Well, you should probably head to the florist now.”

“Sir?”

Cherry giggles. “If Shelly is anything like a mare, she’ll like flowers.”

Arc nods. “Right. And get her a box of chocolates too while you’re at it.”

“I’ll do that, sir.”

Arc reaches into his pocket. “Here’s some money for that and some extra for if you two want to do something after dinner.”

“Dinner! Where should I take her?!”

Cherry calls out. “How about that place you took Lily, Arc?”

“Yes, Roberto’s Pizza is a favorite of Shelly’s. Take her there. It’s on the highway just as you get to Farburg.”

Max nods. “Yes sir, I’ve seen it from the road before.”

Arc tosses Max his keys. “Good. Now then, have a good time and take good care of Shelly.”

Max nods and turns to leave. As his hand touches the doorknob he turns back.

“Sir?”

“Yes?”

“I… um… might I ask you something personal?”

“Go ahead.”

“Why are you doing this? I mean, you literally told me earlier today not to do what I’m about to.”

Arc sighs. “Yes, well… this was Shelly’s request. All things considered I can’t really deny her anything when she asks, as it happens so seldomly. That and I trust you not to do anything… inappropriate with her.”

Max blushes. “Y-yes sir. You have my word on that.”

“Good. Now get moving.”

Max nods and hurries out the door. Arc looks out the window as the Jeep drives away. Sitting down on the bed he lays back and puts an arm over his face. Cherry calls out to him.

“Arc?”

“Yes?”

“I know that was hard for you.”

“That it was.”

“But I’m very glad you passed on Shelly’s request.”

“Shelly deserves a little fun. After all, she won’t live a full life as the rest of us will.”

Cherry sighs. “Or hope to, at least.”

“Yeah. Yeah you’re right, Cherry. None of us really knows just how long we have.”

“True. But I can tell there’s more to your mood than that.”

Arc groans. “Is it that obvious?”

“Yes.”

“I… I’m so jealous of Max right now.”

“You wanted to go out with Shelly?”

“No, no. I just wish it was me going out on a date with a special someone.”

“Rarity?”

Arc silently nods.

“You could just ask her. After all, what’s the worst that could happen?”

Arc makes a face. “She could say no.”

“Do you think she would?”

“I know she would say yes.”

“Then what’s the problem?”

“My workload.”

Cherry sighs. “You could take some time off. After all, nothing more can be done about Princess Celestia’s rescue until your squad has fully researched that base and Sunburst finishes developing the items you requested.”

“I know I could. But would that really be fair to everyone else? Me going off and having a relationship while they sit here and work?”

“They’d agree with me. Of that I’m sure.”

“Yeah, they probably would.”

“Then what’s the problem?”

“I just can’t seem to justify that in my head. Seeking out my own happiness when they can’t just doesn’t feel right.”

“Then what are you going to do?”

Arc sits up. “Go downstairs and try to help the others get some work done.”

“Huh?”

“I have to stay busy. It’ll help get the job done that much quicker too.”

Meanwhile, at the military base some distance away a knock rings out through a door as a man’s voice from behind a large desk calls out.

“Come in.”

The door opens and Diva enters. She walks over and stands before the desk respectfully as the figure before her continues to look out a window.

“Sir, Doctor Rieper reports he has successfully transmuted the perfected serum to the test subjects.”

The figure in the chair does not move as Diva continues.

“While the incubation period will be significantly longer than the three most recent subjects, he believes this next generation of troops will be able to easily surpass their abilities after Ascension.”

“Very good. However there has been… a development.”

Diva appears confused. “Sir?”

“The Hero and his followers were spotted nearby.”

“What?! When?!”

“Several hours ago.”

“General, we need to…!”

“Wait.”

Diva grins as powerful magic crackles in her palms. “Wait?! But I’m looking forward to taking him out!”

“I understand your desire to face him, colonel . Tell me, what would you like to do about this?”

“Go to the location he was seen and attempt to find his trail! Maybe I can follow it and catch him off guard!”

“Without backup, I assume.”

“Yes, general! I wouldn’t have it any other way!”

“His allies would certainly not agree to that.”

Diva smiles menacingly. “Then I’d take them out too!”

“And imperil the plan? Tell me, are you so certain of victory you would risk everything for a petty fight?”

Diva is silent for a time. Eventually the figure behind the desk chuckles and continues.

“Fear not. You will have your chance to prove yourself on the field of battle. But the timing must be right.”

“Oh?”

“Yes. As I’m sure you already understand, battle is all about timing. Knowing when to strike, when to dodge, and when to pull back.”

Diva frowns. “And you believe striking at the wrong time would result in absolute failure?”

“I do.”

“While I agree that failure is always a possibility, I must also say that raw skill and cunning can turn the tables in but a moment.”

“You are not wrong, Diva. However, a capable leader seeks victory through tactics and foresight. Not luck and theory.”

“Yes sir. But may I ask what exactly you intend to do about our intrepid so-called hero’s snooping?”

“Nothing.”

Diva raises an eyebrow, confused. “Sir, we can’t just sit idly by. If anything, we should be out there tracking him and his followers down.”

“Don’t worry about a thing, Diva. Sometimes it’s better for the lion to forego stalking its prey in lieu of waiting for it.”

“You believe he will come for us, don’t you, sir?”

“It is inevitable. And when he does…”

The man behind the desk snaps his fingers.

“…the trap will be sprung.”

Diva grins. “I look forward to it, sir.”

“Yes. But in any case, I’ll need to inform our Security Chief of the impeding trespassers.”

“Shall I call for him, general?”

“I already have.”

There is a knock at the door. The general clears his throat before calling out.

“Come!”

The door opens and another officer enters the room. He appears quite a bit older than Diva, but physically fit. Approaching the desk he salutes.

“You wanted to see me, General Mustang?”

“Yes. Tighten security and alert the soldiers to be especially vigilant from here on out.”

“Was there an incident, sir?”

Mustang shakes his head. “As of yet, no. However, I believe we’re going to have a rather… interesting visitor at some point.”

“Might I ask who, sir?”

Diva grits her teeth. “The general believes that the ‘illustrious’ Hero of Light may soon pay us a visit, Colonel Langrisser.”

“Oh? Might I ask where this information came from?”

Mustang chuckles. “My personal sources are my own, colonel. As you know from past experience, they are most reliable.”

“Yes sir. However, it would be a great help to have some insight into…”

Diva glares at him. “Didn’t you hear the general?! Back off!”

“Now, now. He makes a legitimate point, Diva. A good tactician knows to accumulate as much information on their target before the battle.”

The general swivels around to face the pair for the first time. He appears in his early thirties with black hair and equally dark pupils. Leaning forward, he rests his elbow on the desk and folds his hands in front of his face.

“As you know, this so-called ‘hero’ is the same one whom has been making the rounds in Angel Grove lately.”

Langrisser nods. “Yes, I’ve seen him on the news. He seems quite capable of handling himself both in and out of combat.”

Diva folds her arms over her chest and frowns. “Hmph! He’s not so tough.”

Mustang smiles. “Is he now, Diva?”

“I could take him.”

“Didn’t we just have this conversation?”

Diva groans. “Yes sir. But I will heed your advice and bide my time.”

Langrisser rolls his eyes. “Always the overconfident one, Diva.”

Diva clenches a fist as she turns to him. “Says the timid one!”

“If by ‘timid’ you mean ‘prepared’, they yes.”

Mustang frowns. “Enough.”

The office is silent for a few moments as General Mustang stands and walks over to a decanter on a nearby table.

“The Hero possesses the Gift. Same as our very talented Diva here.”

Langrisser appears surprised. “So he’s already Ascended?!”

Mustang nods as he pours a small glassful of a strange liquid. “So it would seem.”

“Begging the general’s pardon, but how?”

Diva frowns. “I’ve been wondering that myself. After all, we’re the ones whom dictate whom is Gifted with Ascension.”

Mustang nods as he takes a sip from his glass. “That much is true. However, I’ve confirmed that he did not get his power from the Organization.”

Langrisser frowns. “Then where, sir?”

The general shrugs as he returns to his chair behind the desk.

“Your guess is as good as mine, colonel. In the meantime I want both of you to stay vigilant.”

Diva clenches a fist. “When I catch him, I’ll BEAT the answer out of him!”

Langrisser turns to her angrily. “Not if I find him first, Diva.”

Mustang chuckles. “I do so enjoy a friendly rivalry. But do not lose sight of the true goal. We must protect The Secret at all costs.”

Diva and Langrisser nod. “Yes sir.”

“Return to your duties. Dismissed.”

The pair salute and leave the room together. General Mustang swivels his chair to once again look out the window as he holds his glass out in a one-sided toast.

“Yes. It will be a very… interesting conversation, to be sure. Like Diva, I too am looking forward to speaking with you… Arc.”