Even with the returning pain of his wound and a gnawing sense his magic was slowly ebbing away, Star Swirl couldn’t help but slip a tiny smile as he traveled through Canterlot's inner city. Star Flare had, at least thus far, lived up to her word to take him to the castle and she had seemingly made every effort to make their journey as quick as possible. Still, even with this good turn of events, he knew he couldn’t be content just yet. There were far too many ways for his plan to go terribly wrong and still too many unanswered questions about his winged-unicorn escort, and his curiosity about her was starting to eat away at him more than the pain of his wound.
He glanced at Star Flare and briefly thought of the spell he had cast on her earlier. Though she had believed it interrupted, in truth, she had only discovered it at its completion. Even so, the spell was quite basic and was meant for a single purpose – to gauge the strength of her magic. What he found had only created more questions.
He took a moment to stretch then stroked the edge of his beard as he tried to make sense of it all. Like me, she’s a pony that doesn’t belong here, that much is certain. Though innately she possesses a great deal of power, the few spell wards she's used were very low tier at best, a sort any amateur caster would know. However, she doesn't strike me as being completely unpracticed... but as of yet there's nothing to connect her to the likes of Canterlot's magic council, nor has she even displayed the talent of a mage with moderate training. It’s fairly safe to presume she’s only ever received very basic training in the arcane – most likely through the military or her upbringing – and has little genuine talent with magic. He shook his head at the now obvious conclusion. And that means, even if she had knowledge of the spell, she wouldn’t be able to timejump. Someone – or something – sent her here.
As they stepped from a wide alley into an enormous circular courtyard filled with inns and shops, he began to inwardly curse the limitations – and more so, the inaccuracies – of time travel. A fleeting thought of returning to an earlier point in time to get the answers he was seeking was incredibly tempting, but he had never been able to arrive on an exact date and normally was off considerably, sometimes by weeks and even months. And then there’s the spell itself; the amount of energy required with each timejump was enough to kill even the most powerful of mages and he knew that from here on, without Ailamyr, every shift through time from would be at great risk. With a tiny sigh he concluded that at some point he’d have to find a way to simplify the process.
“So talkative one minute… quiet and brooding the next.” Star Flare said, breaking the silence between them. “Should I be worried?”
Star Swirl waved a foreleg to dismiss her comment. “I do not brood; I simply have a great deal on my mind.”
“Well mister not-brooding, you still have a lot of explaining to do… I’m just hoping you’ve been thinking up where to begin. I’m expecting an impressive story, especially since you’ve only given bits and pieces so far.”
“Indeed... there is quite a story to be told. Someday, perhaps, it should all be written down." Star Swirl's pace gradually slowed as he briefly daydreamed one of his many adventures. "If you are to understand why I do what I do, and why I've done what I've done, then I should begin at the beginning. But since we neither have the time nor a scribe to keep record, perhaps it would be better to focus solely on details you may find interesting. Allow me to start with my one rule to live by.”
“Your rule, huh? You don’t strike me as the kind of pony that would adhere to any rules,” Star Flare looked over her shoulder to the old mage and gave a smirk. “And as interesting as I’m sure it is, I’d prefer you just told me what happened back there in the alley… You did promise, after all.”
“I did? Of course, yes.” Feeling his stomach give a queasy growl, Star Swirl slowed his pace. “And so, the rule…” he began then with a tilt of his hat raised his head high to enjoy the delicious evening aromas of burning cherry oak mixed with roasted garlic and butter potatoes temptingly wafting through the frigid air. “One should never make decisions on an empty stomach.”
Star Flare gave a questioning side glance as she tried not to laugh. “That's... your rule? Does ignoring it lead to poor decision making?" She asked then quickly added, "I guess it could be true... After all, I didn't have time for lunch so maybe that explains why I agreed to take you to the castle.”
“Not so much.” Star Swirl ignored the sarcasm and took another sniff of the mouthwatering fragrance but was pulled from the elation as the length of his shadow caught his eye. “It simply means you’re hungry… and you should never put off a good meal.”
Star Flare wasn’t sure if the old mage had a terrible sense of humor or was actually being serious. She bet on the latter. “That’s… helpful. I, um, suppose.”
“It most certainly is. I’ve already broken it many times today and I can assure you I've regretted it each and every time.” Star Swirl said then casually stepped from the walking path onto the frozen street, his hooves crunching loudly as he stepped through the thick snow. Suddenly realizing his escort may not be aware of what he was doing, he turned and waved to Star Flare. “Excuse me; I’ll only be a moment.”
Passing by a few ponies making their way to a nearby restaurant, he quickly moved to get a clear view of the horizon but his lips pressed into a firm line as his attention focused on the west. The golden disk of the sun had sunk alarmingly low but even more worrisome was its place in the sky. The star seemed split in two as it gradually moved behind a single dark spire – a massive onyx mountain that jutted from the horizon like a blackened fang. Though in ancient times it had been known as Tyra’gar – a name given by the minotaur meaning, mighty tower – it now held the more basic pony name, Dragon Mountain, as it had long since become a bastion of sort for the great wyrms. It wasn’t, however, normally in the path of the setting star. Considering its meaning, Star Swirl stood tugging at his beard until a gentle voice next to him made him blink and look to its source.
“We really should keep moving… is everything alright?” Star Flare asked.
“Oh…” Star Swirl glanced once more to the horizon then gave a single nod. “Everything is fine, my dear. My apologies… as always, I’m far too easily distracted. We should go.”
As they continued on and moved through another section filled with the aromas of various cooling pies he gave a reassuring pat to calm his stomach and woozily tried to focus his thoughts elsewhere. To help distract himself from his hunger, he remembered what the winter bird had told him about the city - how things didn’t seem as happy as they once were. Had he not known better, the various festival decorations hung along walls, doorways, and from building to building would’ve made him believe otherwise, but he knew ponies had a tendency to mask problems, especially during holidays. Still, he couldn’t deny it was nice to see some happiness for a change, even if it would only last a short while.
As they quickly greeted then moved passed an elder unicorn lighting one of the many street lanterns with magic, Star Swirl’s thoughts began to linger once more on his escort and why she had agreed to help him in the first place. She distrusts me, perhaps even believes me senile… He paused to forcibly hold back a chuckle. It’s strange she’s only looking for information… He sighed knowing where his thoughts were leading. Even so, I can’t – I simply cannot! – warn her about what’s coming… but, it wouldn't be right for her to be caught in the middle of it either. Is there a way I can help keep her safe?
He slowed his pace as an idea came to him. “Perhaps… there is…” he whispered under his breath then loudly cleared his throat. “Miss, would you mind if we stopped for a moment? My old legs aren’t what they used to be.”
Star Flare looked over her shoulder then nodded. “We’re almost there but even so we’ll need to make it short,” she said then motioned to stand on the snow-covered roadside. “And I know you’re getting tired of hearing it, but I still don’t see how you plan to enter the castle. If you could just wait till tomorrow I’m sure I could make some arrangements…”
Star Swirl stretched then waved a foreleg dismissively. “Tomorrow, the day after, the day after that… so on and so forth, they simply aren’t an option. It must be this day.”
Having heard the almost rehearsed response many times already, Star Flare gave a small sigh and continued. “You think differently, I know, but having me with you won’t make this any easier…” her voice drifts off as a large silver ribbon dangling helplessly in the breeze overhead catches her attention. As she uses her magic to reaffix it to the adjacent roof she continues. “As you can see, there's a pretty big festival happening here soon, and because of the crowds coming to Canterlot the royal guards have strict orders to turn away all visitors from the castle without a special appointment. Also… once the sun has been lowered any chance you might have to enter will be gone. Princess Luna absolutely forbids any visitations at night.”
That comes as no surprise, Star Swirl thought. “If it gives you some peace of mind, let’s just say, the princesses are expecting my visit. Anyhow, try not to worry; there’s still a little time yet.” Deciding it might be best to change the subject, he looked about and noticed how surprisingly empty this particular road was, especially since it was so large. “I must ask, though… Is it strange there’s so few traveling through this area?”
Star Flare didn’t hesitate to shake her head, as if expecting the question. “If it were morning it would be, but this road is mostly just for transporting supplies in and out of the central districts and it’s normally only used early in the day,” she paused a moment as if considering what to say next then nonchalantly shrugged. “I occasionally find troublemakers here but nothing you need to worry about. Since we’re in a hurry it was our fastest route.”
“I… see. That being the case, I’m almost ready to move on. However, before we do, I would very much like to give you something. For your kindness, that is.”
Before she could protest, Star Swirl slipped his large hat off and with a tiny wave made the hole for his head glow brightly with magic. Quickly he reached inside then shuffled a bit to sort through items, then with a confident smile he pulled his foreleg back out and dangling by a thin chain on his hoof was a silver locket, ornamented by a single sapphire in its center. “With this, I may be able to help should the need ever arise,” he motioned the locket closer and winked. “Not that you’d ever need help, especially from somepony like me, but you never know...”
Star Flare eyed the shiny item with curiosity then gave a mischievous grin as she reached out and gently touched it. “What… kind of trick are you trying to pull now?”
Star Swirl raised an eyebrow as he tugged at his beard. “Trick? Dear girl, whatever do you mean?” He moved his hoof closer gesturing for her to take the locket. “It is quite real, I assure you.”
“No, it’s not that… it’s just, here look…” Star Flare tugged on the collar of her golden breastplate then slid an identical locket from underneath. She held it for a moment on her armored hoof then let it dangle on her neck, the light breeze making it tap against her golden armor. “I’ve had one just like it for as long as I can remember.”
Star Swirl’s eyes narrowed. Unknowingly, the foreleg holding his own locket drooped slightly. “They are indeed quite similar... Te-tell me, is there anything inside?” He said then swallowed.
Star Flare tilted her head then looked down to her locket. “No…” She gave a tiny nostalgia-filled laugh then caressed the shiny item lovingly. “At least, I don’t think there is - it doesn’t even open. But I’ve never been able to part with it. I guess that’s kind of strange, huh?”
For a moment, Star Swirl showed no sign of acknowledgement. Instead, he blinked then looked at his own locket. “I believe it will open, it’s likely you were just never shown how…” He lightly cleared his throat then spoke, “Elementia.”
A warm aura formed around both lockets then together they split open like books.
Star Flare gasped in amazement. “But… how?” She quickly removed her helmet and brushed her bangs from her eyes as she looked down to inspect the now open locket, but Star Swirl’s serious expression made her pause. “And, what does it mean?”
The old mage’s lips twisted then with a huff he tugged his beard with annoyance. “Nothing. I assume it is just a very strange, but entirely explainable coincidence.”
Star Flare didn’t know how to react to such a blatant lie. Part of her was angry, but for some reason she was more hurt by it. “Just a coincidence? That’s all this is?” She held up the locket then let it fall, the thin chain sending it swinging back and forth on her neck. “They both open with your magic,” she paused hearing how squeaky her voice had become and took a small breath to try and calm down. “If it’s explainable, then by all means, explain away...”
After eyeing her with renewed scrutiny Star Swirl sighed deeply. “At this point, I... wouldn’t even know where to begin.” He said quietly and snapped his locket closed. In unison, Star Flare’s locket closed as well.
“You made a promise to me you’d explain what this was all about if I took you to the castle, but you’ve given me nothing but half-truths and lies… Please, if you really know something about this-”
“Cutie marks often have rooted connections to those related to you, did you know that?” Star Swirl said abruptly, then with a smile continued. “In this way, special talents are passed from one generation to the next,” he paused a moment to look at the locket wrapped around his hoof. “In the alley earlier, you displayed the ability to control light – something quite unusual, I assure you. Tell me; is that a talent of yours, or a spell of some sort you’ve learned?”
Star Flare’s shoulders slumped in disbelief. “Everything leads to more questions from you, doesn’t it?” She said then gave a solemn look. “I have lived my whole life with only this locket to give me any connection to my past... and here you are-”
Star Swirl waved a foreleg forward to interrupt again. “There will most certainly be a time and place for that, but it is not now. I must know, is your special talent the ability to control light?” He could hear anger in his voice and stopped short of saying more, confused at where it had come from. Quickly he swallowed then spoke softly, “It’s important.”
Star Flare sighed. There was obviously no point to arguing, but every part of her wanted to press the issue further. “No… well, yes. I mean, it’s not a spell... but I’ve never been particularly good at it. What does that have to do with the locket?”
“Perhaps nothing. Perhaps… everything.” Star Swirl rested his hindquarters on a mound of snow deep in thought. Had I dismissed the connection because I didn’t even want to consider it? Could she really be... her? He tilted his hat away from his face and tugged his beard, then found himself speaking aloud. “I once knew of a child…” He paused realizing his thoughts had crept onto his voice, but decided to continue. “She was a very sweet, very shy thing. Surrounded by those who cared deeply for her, she was a symbol of hope for a safe and peaceful future. But… that life was taken from her, it seems.”
Star Flare’s yellow eyes glistened from the light of a nearby street lantern as tears began to stream down her cheeks. “I don- I don’t understand?”
“I wish this was simple, but nothing ever is. I've had suspicions ever since we met, but the locket has made me consider something I never would of thought possible," Star Swirl said then sighed deeply. "My magic and my strength are all but exhausted. Normally I would need both to solve a riddle as perplexing as this… thankfully, however, I don’t believe either will be necessary. To be absolutely certain, I only need to know one last thing.”
Star Flare sniffled. “And what is that?”
“Earlier you told me you had been adopted when you were young... and the child I spoke of, last I saw her she had already earned her cutie mark. With your armor on I’m unable to see, so please tell me; what is yours?” As he finished he turned his back to her and nervously held his beard.
Though confused, Star Flare wiped the cold tears from her face as she looked to her armored side. “It’s… of a blue star.”
Star Swirl’s eyes closed. Elysia… It is her. I didn’t see it at first cause of how much she’s grown, but now there’s simply no doubt. He gave a long, drawn out sigh then bowed his head. How is this possible? And… am I truly responsible for taking Celestia’s daughter from nearly two millennia in the future and stranding her here, in the past? And if so… How could I do something so… so reckless?!
He shakily removed his hat once more, as if too heavy to wear any longer. “Princess… what have I done?” He barely whispered. Was this to protect her? Or… was there another purpose? He looked over his hat scanning the various patterns of gold stars and moons, deeply wishing they could respond with an answer. Suddenly another thought crossed his mind. “And… was I supposed to meet you? Or has this encounter changed things yet again?”
Star Flare gave a shocked look at the questions. “I don’t really understand any of what’s going on… but, if this really is your locket, then you must have intended to find me.”
Star Swirl clasped the silver chain of his own locket around his neck then wearily returned his hat to his head once more. As his mind raced over an endless list of questions it became clearly apparent his regeneration spell had all but faded away; it had only been a couple hours, but the terrible wound on his side had already fully overwhelmed his magic. I have such little time… but maybe the most important answer to this is as simple as she says. Regardless, what's done is done. I must discover how this came to be, and furthermore… He turned and looked at Star Flare and considered for a moment. She doesn’t belong here. Should I take her with me? Am I strong enough to even do so? And if she’s grown up here, it may be even more disruptive to the flow of time should she suddenly vanish… He held his breath then whispered to himself, “And… I’d be taking her from Celestia again.”
Trying to hide her frustration, Star Flare slowly returned her helmet to her head then pulled her long blue pony tail over her shoulder. “Star Swirl… Have you ever lost something important to you?”
“I… have,” somewhat surprised she had used his name, his eyes met with hers. “There was a time when I lost everything that mattered to me. That is why I’m here, now.”
“Then you know. That gnawing feeling always at the back of your mind telling you to look everywhere but what’s missing is never there. That’s how I’ve lived my whole life. And then…” she paused to gain control of her bottom lip which had started to tremble. “I saw you in the alley and something just clicked. I knew I had found something that I’ve been missing, but… I still don’t know why.”
Star Swirl barely shook his head. “Nor do I. Not yet." He winced as he told the lie. "Once my matters have been taken care of at the castle, I give you my word I will find the answer.”
Star Flare blinked away tears and managed a smile. “I’ll hold you to that,” she said as she turned to start moving again. “This probably won’t help, but you should know that when I was younger, I always thought… maybe I had learned to teleport and that’s how I got myself lost,” she forced a tiny laugh. “I practiced and practiced but I’ve never once been able to use the spell.”
I’ve already told her far too much, Star Swirl thought as he took a small step forward. But, it makes no difference. “Your… mother… was never very good at space time magic, either,” he began. “I have repeatedly tried to teach her, but it’s something she’s always struggled with.”
Star Flare’s eyes widened. “My… mother?”
“The most wonderful pony I know,” Star Swirl said as he looked towards the castle in the distance. “I’m certain she’s very proud of how far you’ve come.”
“You know her? But… how?” Star Flare started to look frantic.
“Since time has grown quite short, allow me to tell you what I can as we walk." As Star Swirl spoke, he weaved arcane syllables between each word casting a spell only the most gifted magic users would ever be able to detect. With a sad smile he finished the spell as he gently patted Star Flare on her side. "Just promise me you won't faint, alright?"