I had to admit, I hated having to do this, saving my cousin. Katana could never keep out of trouble, but I wasn't expecting her to be captured and held for ransom from me. She was probably one of the last ponies I wanted to have to save, but I guess family has its priorities. Maybe this time she will learn her lesson.
I sailed through the air on my sword towards Ponyville. Yet again it had been a while since I had been there, but it wasn't my final destination. I had my eyes set beyond Ponyville. There was an open field of just dirt and rocks about half a mile of the town, where the Diamond Dogs normally stayed. It was curious how the Diamond Dogs even survived underground, but judging by their lifestyle they probably just stole the food they needed.
I sailed over and past Ponyville, I couldn't see anypony below, but it was almost midnight so most of the town was already asleep. The only lights on were from the Town Hall and the Library. Twilight must have been doing some late night reading, as usual. I hadn't been doing as much reading as I used to. Normally I'd pick up a book about magic or history from time to time, but now I was always so busy doing my job.
I finally made it to the empty area outside of Ponyville. There were holes in the ground everywhere, most likely the home of the Diamond Dogs. Cowards. Cowards who hide in the ground. I wandered around and peered into one of the holes.
"I'm here with my big shiny sword," I called out. "Are you going to come take it and give me my cousin back, or do we have to do this the hard way?"
I waited for a response, but one never came. What a waste of time. I shouted a few more times into different holes, but nothing ever came back other than echoes. Maybe my cousin became smart enough to escape and took care of the Diamond Dogs? I dismissed that explanation the second I gave it any thought. Katana might have been good at being stealthy, but she was no escape artist.
Before I could transform my sword and fly away the ground beneath me caved in. I fell through the whole at high speed, tumbling the whole way. I barely managed to adjust my body and slow down before landing in an open room on all hooves. In a split second the area around me went dark and a bag went over my head and something tried to suffocate me. I struggled to fight back, kicking my hooves around but failing to make contact with anything. There was a jolt of pain in the back of my head, and then everything faded.
I woke up, once again surrounded by darkness. A dirty bag was still covering my head. I tried to move around but found that both my legs and hooves were bound. My armor had been stripped as well. I was trapped in what felt like a square metal box, but without a top. It must have been a mining cart. How stupid was I? To get caught so easily by a bunch of dumb Diamond Dogs. I shouldn't have let my guard down.
"Hey! What sort of pony do you take me for!?" I yelled.
A muffled feminine voice came from nearby. "Swordy! You're awake! They must have hit you pretty hard, I've been trying to wake you up for hours now."
It was Katana. I sighed in desperation. "Thanks, Katana. How in the hay did you get captured by Diamond Dogs in the first place?"
"Long story, Cous'. Can you please get us out of here now? This dirty rag over my head really stinks."
Ever the complaining young Pegasus. I tried to focus on the rope that bound my hooves together, but my magic failed. "Can't yet, head is still spinning. Won't be able to use magic for a little bit."
"Aw, you've got to be kidding me! Some all powerful unicorn you are," Katana paused in her insults a moment. "I think I hear them coming."
Sure enough, I could hear some mumbling off in the distance headed this way. Whatever was out there marched up to my cart and stopped. They must have been looking right at me, cause I could smell their terrible breath.
"So, are you gonna release me now?" I asked plainly.
"Hahaha! Listen to this one, he thinks we are going to release him!" One of the Diamond Dogs lifted the dirty rag off my face, allowing me to get a first look at the room. My suspicions of the mining cart were right, and there were two Diamond Dogs staring down at me. I couldn't see much else other than the ceiling, which was barely high enough to fit the Diamond Dogs.
"Well you could do that and I'd leave peacefully with my cousin, or you can risk me escaping and bucking your flanks over to the next underworld."
"You trapped, no escapes for you. We take your shiny sword with the gems. Armor also very nice. We take it and sell it for gems," said one of the uglier dogs. I decided to call him Sudzey. All their voices were squeaky and irritating.
These idiots actually thought I wasn't able to escape. Just a few more minutes and I'd sure show them.
"So if you're not letting me go, what are you going to do with me?" I asked.
The dogs snickered. "We bury you."
"Cowards! How about you let me go and see if you're strong enough to bury me that way!" yelled Katana. I could hear her struggling around inside another mine cart. I was tempted to just leave her behind. One less annoyance couldn't hurt right?
"We bury you now. Celebrate with gems later."
The Diamond Dogs began digging two holes nearby and stopped only seconds later. They sure didn't like to waste time. I managed to concentrate on my magic. About time it started working. Before the Diamond Dogs could get back to me I felt around with my magic for my sword. Once I felt I had it located I teleported it over top of my head, shaped it into a cone and slammed it down around the cart.
"Hey! That's not fair!" cried Sudzey.
While the sword kept me safe I used my magic to untie my bonds. I stretched my legs real quick and stood up. I levitated the cone and transformed the sword back to normal and aimed it at the two dogs.
"Release my cousin, or I'll be the one burying you," I threatened venomously.
Sudzey ran over to Katana's mine cart and quickly untied her while the other dog sat still with his hands high. Katana pounced out of the cart and pulled back her hoof. "This is for kidnapping me!" She launched her hoof forward into Sudzey's stomach. He clutched his abdomen when another punch connected with his skull. "And that is for kidnapping my cousin!" Sudzey quickly collapsed, unconscious.
"Hey! You didn't have to do that!" The other Diamond Dog ran over to his buddy and began trying to wake him up.
I heard more voices coming from another tunnel. I looked in the direction and saw five shadows heading this way. Thinking fast, I pulled out my sword and transformed it into a surfboard. I magically dragged Katana and plopped her on the back.
I hopped onto the sword and transformed a pair of handlebars onto the board. "Hang on." I grabbed onto the handles and pumped my magic into the sword, accelerating forward.
We sped down another one of the tunnels away from the pursuing Diamond Dogs. There were still a few hot on our tails, big dogs, and boy could they run fast. I searched the ceiling for any holes to the surface, and failed to watch where I was going. I crashed into a dead end, throwing Katana off and into the air. She spread her wings and landed safely while I yanked the sword from the wall. No hole to the surface from here. Darn these tunnels.
"Look!" Katana was pointing back to where we came from. A group of Diamond Dogs were still coming straight towards us. I extended my sword and transformed it into a wall, cutting us all off.
"That won't hold them for long, they could just dig right around." I said.
"Well isn't there some way you can get us out of here? Use some teleport magic or something and just bring us to the surface!"
I grunted. "It doesn't work like that. I would just drill a hole right out, but we've got Diamond Dogs on our tails. Come here and follow my lead, I have an idea." I walked over to the sword and hugged it closely, motioning Katana to do the same. She walked up to it and hugged the wall like me.
"Alright, brace yourself, it might get a bit dizzy." I flared my horn up and in an instant the wall did a flip, doing exactly what I expected. It dropped us on the other side of the tunnel and trapped the Diamond Dogs in the dead end. After shaking off the slight vertigo I transformed the sword back a surfboard and used my magic to bring down the ceiling between us and the dogs before they even knew what happened.
I hopped back on my sword and once again dragged Katana on, then sped down the dark tunnels again. I swerved down any tunnels that looked lighter than the next, but was never able to find any holes in the ceiling. At least we had lost the Diamond Dogs, so it seemed. We ended up running into another dead end. I sighed in aggravation.
I looked at the ceiling in frustration and quickly kicked Katana off my sword. "Stand back, I'm gonna try something different."
I transformed my sword into the flying capsule I used to race against Rainbow Dash, only this time I transformed the front crystal into a large round drill. I stood inside the giant pony-sized drill and aimed it upwards, standing on my hind legs trying to keep it balanced. I levitated the drill to the ceiling and pulled my hooves back inside. I began to spin the sword, slowly accelerating and pushing upwards. Katana took a few steps back as dirt and rock started to fall around her. The sword spun so quickly I began to feel a part of it, pushing it up as hard as I could. Just a few more seconds and I could see the sky again. I finally breached the surface, and the first light of dawn was waiting to greet me. I dug the rest of the way out and got out of my sword, taking a moment to recover from all the spinning. I peered back into the hole.
"Can you fly out, Katana?" I called down.
"No problem!" answered Katana. "Wish it wasn't so dirty."
I heard her flapping upwards, and within a few seconds she climbed out of the hole, all muddy and dirty.
"You look fantastic," I said.
Katana slapped my horn. "Save it, conehead. You look just as bad."
"You're welcome."
I looked back down the hole and used my magic to cave it in again. Hopefully this was the last time I had to deal with Diamond Dogs. They still got away with my armor though. That will be annoying to explain to Justice, and probably quite the story to the other Lieutenants. At least it gave me a valid enough reason to get me my own set of armor.
"Promise not to go and get yourself kidnapped anymore?" I asked.
"I don't think I can keep that kind of promise," teased Katana. "But thanks for the save. Stone wasn't exactly there to save me this time, was he?"
I looked shamefully at the ground. "He could have used a bit of saving himself." Cousin Stone Shield hadn't been around for about two years now. He was fired from the Royal Guard and one day just kind of wandered off. Even the strongest of ponies fall, I suppose. None of us had expected it from him though.
Katana put a supportive hoof on my back, which surprised me. "Don't worry, Cous'. He was a good brother, the best. I know you two fought a lot, but that's what made you seem like such good friends. I was always in your face because I was jealous you seemed to pay all of your attention towards him, and now that he's gone... well, I'm sorry."
I looked at Katana in shock. This was the last thing I was expecting from her, but her words sounded genuine. I smiled at her for probably what was the first time ever. "Thanks. I'm sorry for despising you so much. I guess you really have grown u-"
Katana brought her hoof back. "Yeah, yeah. Cut the mushy talk, it doesn't work very well with you. I'd love to stay and chat, but I gotta fly." She spread her wings and dashed off into the sky.
Aaand moment gone. I shook my head and walked back towards Ponyville, transforming my sword into a belt and hanging it around my waist. I decided to stop by my house for an early breakfast. Luckily I always had a few carrots saved away. Not super fresh, but they were good enough. As I walked out my door I noticed a drastic change in the sky. The clouds had changed into a square grid.
Discord. It must have been him. But this wasn't necessarily his style, an organized square grid of clouds? And they weren't pink, though some were raining, some were snowing and others were hailing. This looked more like organized chaos rather than something Discord would do.
I transformed my sword and launched into the sky, getting close to a few of the clouds and inspected them, when a lightning bolt went off right next to me, knocking me off my sword. I quickly flew the sword underneath my hooves and caught myself. What the hay is going on? I flew over Ponyville searching for what could possibly be the cause. It looked like there was some sort of angry mob growing on one of the bridges.
I flew a bit closer and it looked like most of the ponies were shouting at who looked like Rarity. No wait, that is Rarity, but something was wrong with her. Her cutie mark had completely changed, it was no longer the three diamonds, but Rainbow Dash's cutie mark. But that didn't make any sense, how could Rarity have somepony else's cutie mark? Maybe it was Discord, switching around cutie marks. Discord or not, I started flying back towards Canterlot to see if he really was behind all this.
While I was flying back I tried to tidy up my mane a little bit, dusting off all the dirt and mud. I suppose a bath was called for after I confronted Discord.
I actually hoped that Discord really was behind Rarity's cutie mark, it would have made things easier. Worst that could happen is he refuses and turns on Equestria again, but nothing the Elements of Harmony couldn't handle, right? The Elements could beat anything. Hay they could probably destroy whatever was inside my sword. I hadn't actually thought about that for a while, I seemed to have forgotten about my sword and been too focused on my duties. I still wasn't too sure what I wanted to do with it, it hadn't been doing anything strange at all, but still knowing that something was inside of it creeped me out. Sometimes I swear I could hear whispering coming from it.
Anyhow, I had finally made it into Canterlot. I saluted at the guards at the walls and made my way to the Royal Barracks. I landed right outside the door and transformed my sword into a belt. Justice was already out ordering guards around. I suppose paperwork went by quickly.
Justice noticed me land and worriedly ran over to me. "What happened to you? I was just about to send a patrol to search for you and possibly help. Did you save your cousin?"
He was actually worried? I guess the Captain didn't know me well enough. "Yeah, she's alright. Unfortunately I was ambushed and trapped, and time slipped away from me, but I'm good. They stripped my armor though, so... can I get that new blue set?"
"I think I can work something out." Yes! New armor. Now I can kick flank and look good at the same time. Not that I couldn't already do that.
"Great. There was also some strange stuff going on in Ponyville, and I think Discord might be involved. Do you know where he is?" Hopefully within reach.
"No, you should ask Celestia. She has him doing some work around Equestria," answered Justice.
Drats. "Alright. I'll go see Celestia and hopefully I can find Discord." I gave a quick salute.
Justice looked at me curiously. "You're on break, don't have to tell me everything you're up to or salute."
"Right, sorry. Force of habit. I expect that armor to be done by the time my break is over." I turned towards the castle and trotted off.
I hoped Discord wasn't on some long distance errand, I wasn't in the mood for a wild goose chase. Maybe wild wasn't the correct word, 'Chaotic' sounded more fitting.
As I made my way to the castle I stopped mid step. I should probably take a bath before stepping into the castle, it would have been both disrespectful and make a mess. I spotted a small dark cloud in the sky that hadn't let its load of water out yet and had an idea. I levitated out my sword and transformed it into a surfboard, jumping on and flying up to the cloud. I tested it with my hoof, and sure enough it seemed soaked inside. I backed up and quickly charged right through the cloud, its water completely soaking my body. I flew through it a second time, knocking the rest of the water out of the cloud and turning it to dust.
It seemed to do the job, my coat was shining in the sunlight again. I flew to my tent and dried off with a towel I always kept close by.
I again made my way back towards the castle, trotting past multiple buildings that housed armor, weapons and supplies, through the archways that led to the castle and across the courtyard. The guards at the front doors gladly opened for me and I quickly found myself in the throne room. Celestia was sitting on her throne looking at some parchment. Paperwork most likely. I couldn't imagine how much paperwork the Princesses had to manage, certainly much more than I could probably handle.
"Princess Celestia," I started with a bow. "I'm looking for Discord. Do you know where he is?"
Celestia turned her attention to me. "He is busy with something in Fillydelphia. Why do you need him?"
"Something strange was going on in Ponyville, the weather was all haywire and I saw Rarity's cutie mark switched with Rainbow Dash's. I was thinking Discord might have been involved somehow," I answered with a tone of urgency.
Celestia just smiled. "I will look into it, thank you for informing me," she returned her focus to the parchment. "Have a wonderful day."
I stared in befuddlement, opening my mouth to say something but nothing came out. I skeptically turned around and walked out the door. That was really awkward. I had to believe Celestia knew what she was doing, so I continued walking, heading towards the wall overlooking Ponyville. A couple of the guards saluted me as I passed by, I couldn't help but return them.
Break or not, these guys deserved it all. I've been told time and time again how useless the Royal Guard seemed to be, I never believed it, at first. At one point I really did think our jobs were kind of pointless, that we couldn't really get anything done. But later I realized, we had more important jobs than I realized. We kept important areas secure, and were able to let in the important ponies in. We could do heavy lifting for the Princesses, or even the citizens, and also give them quick transportation. We made sure Canterlot and the other cities were low in crime rate, which wasn't all that hard. We kept a strong presence that discouraged any foul business. We acted as servants for the Princesses at many times, being messengers or deliverers.
What we weren't was an army. We weren't all completely fit to fight, and that's why we couldn't fend off the changeling invasion. We had prepared for them, but we weren't ready. They outnumbered us and countered whatever tactics we tried. They could adapt to the battle, and we couldn't do anything to combat it. We were definitely not trained to fight Spirits of Chaos or a dark Alicorn, both with god-like powers.
So was the life of a Royal Guard, we were servants with a more militaristic role. I was happy with it, or so I wanted to be. There were parts of me that just went 'Hey, you should go out there, meet new ponies and learn new things', but the rest of me couldn't stand leaving behind my job.
So what was I doing?
Making new friends, forgiving old family.
It occurred to me that I would first need some help from someone wiser than myself. I looked down at Ponyville again, and then a little to the left. The Everfree Forest. Without another thought, I levitated out my sword and transformed it to its surfboard shape again, and dove over the wall, heading straight for the foreboding forest.
I had only met Zecora once, during a weekend while I was back in Ponyville. I was having a short discussion with Spike about food when the zebra walked into town. He introduced us and I learned that Zecora was living in the Everfree Forest, but not much else.
She seemed like the best pony, or I guess I should say zebra, to talk to right now. I had heard a lot how she helped with one problem or another for Ponyville's citizens. I wasn't sure what exactly I was going to say. I guess I should just talk and go with whatever comes to me.
I flew closer and closer down to the Everfree Forest, my mane whisking through the air and slapping the side of my head quite irritatingly. This is when having a helmet is nice, no crazy mane all over the place.
After about a half hour's flight I made it to the edge of the Everfree Forest. I nose dived to the ground and straightened out right above the grass, slowing down and jumping off my sword before crashing into a tree.
The edge of the Everfree Forest always weirded me out. On one side you had the bright green grass and trees and sunshine was nearly always present, but then once you got into the forest it all went dark. The sky would cease to exist, you could hear all kinds of creatures and insects buzzing or croaking in the distance, the trees were all warped and deformed.
It was truly a wonder anything managed to live out here at all.
But I stoically marched into the forest with nothing but my sword strapped around my back. There wasn't much of a clear path, nor had I really any idea where Zecora lived, but I figured I could manage. What little pathways I could make of twisted and turned. Once I ended up right back outside of the forest. I went further into town, ignoring the amount of singing going on, and then entered the forest again, hoping for a better path.
And it turns out, it seemed there was one. There was a twisty little road that looked like a pony had come and gone through it multiple times. I guessed that was where Zecora came in and out from. I quickly followed the path, being sure to keep one eye on the tracks and another on the trees ahead.
I finally managed to come across a small opening in the forest. In the middle was a large tree home, adorned with masks and other non-Equestrian ornaments. I guess that was one way of keeping wild creatures away.
I cautiously approached the door and gave three solid knocks. I heard a clatter of hooves approach the door. I was quickly overwhelmed in the moment between waiting for somepony to open the door. Panicking, I put on a crooked smile as the door creaked open.
The zebra stood in the doorway, looking curiously at who had bothered to knock her door. Her faced turned to a smile as she recognized who I was.
"Well if it isn't Mr. Shield, I hope my treasures had not caused you to yield," greeted Zecora with her rhyming speech.
I looked up at the strange masks again and back to Zecora. "No, of course not. I admire the decorations. Are they for spooking off other creatures that might come near?"
Zecora chuckled. "A good observation with your eyes so keen, but things are not always what they seem. For what reason have you come to me in my humble home?"
I looked at the ground and hesitated. "A bit of a personal matter, which I thought it was best to speak with you about. I'm in need of a bit of advice."
"Ah, my wisdom it is you need, come in and in your mind will I plant the seed," Zecora stepped aside and directed me to a table. "Would you like some tea? It is the best in all of Everfree."
"No thanks," I answered, happily walking in and sitting down at the small round table.
The whole main room was adorned with potions, ingredients and strange tribal masks. There was a large brewing pot in the center with something already cooking inside. I wasn't sure exactly what, all the smells were completely foreign.
Zecora took a small cup and filled it from the brewing pot. I guessed it was the tea. I never really liked tea, it disagreed with my stomach whenever I tried any. She came and sat down across from me at the table.
Zecora took a small sip of the tea. "So tell me what is troubling you friend, that I might be able to help and mend."
"I've been put off duty for the weekend by both the Princess and my Captain. If you haven't heard, I've got some rare problem with my cutie mark and myself, causing it to disappear," I motioned towards my cutie mark, only the sword and shield being left. "Luna believes that the best way to fix it is to make some friends or forgive my family, and more importantly forgiving myself. I haven't any idea where to start with any of those."
Zecora nodded sympathetically. "So it is friends you require, in your situation quite dire. You seem to be starting well, but all of your social fears you must quell."
"I don't have that many social fears, and I don't really think I need to be making friends to fix my problem. I never had many friends before my cutie mark change, I think it might just make it worse if I do." In all honesty I still simply didn't want to be wasting time trying to make friends.
"Then what is it you fear? Is there family who has done you wrong, and left you not as strong?" asked Zecora plainly.
The questions were a bit overwhelming and I hesitated to answer. "I don't know, not anyone I can think of, except my dad probably. My cousin also got on my nerves a lot, but I couldn't say she did me wrong. I think I cleared that up earlier today."
"I see. What has your father done, to make you hide and run?"
"Uh, I-" I wasn't sure where that came from. What did my dad do? A whole buckload of things. "-In my youth... he was never kind to me. He was the pony that basically ruined my foalhood and turned me into what I am today. I never intended to be a Royal Guard, but he forced me into it anyway and I went along because I didn't have much of a choice. I ended up becoming so forced into it I actually started to do well, and that's what got me up to be a Lieutenant.
"Once I was there I felt like I belonged, that I could make a difference in Equestria. And then I was proved wrong, time and time again. Shown that I was nothing. Even with the amazing abilities I have I still lost the battles, and I'm still losing the war. Losing... to a bunch of mares, who happened to get lucky."
"You speak of Twilight and her friends?"
As I spoke the anger in my voice grew. "Yeah, Twilight. She's always managed to be two steps ahead, as if by stroke of luck. I might as well be an innocent bystander when she comes around, there to save the day with the Elements of Harmony."
Zecora shook her head. "You should not hold a grudge so heavily, and must hold your pace more steadily. Twilight Sparkle is the truest friend a pony could acquire, a friend who would be best to aspire."
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. She was telling me to become more like Twilight? To make friends with her? I wasn't anywhere near willing for something like that.
I stared at Zecora blankly for a moment, then stood up with a sigh. "Not for me. Thank you for trying to help, but I don't think I've found what I'm looking for. You'll have to excuse me."
I walked towards the door when Zecora spoke up one last time. "Before you go I have one last bit of advice. Your father whom you hate, talk to and forgive before it is too late."
I refrained from looking back and simply opened the door, stepping back into the forest, and shutting the door behind me with my magic.
I took out my sword and transformed it, flying up above the trees. The sky was just starting to dim with the sun lowering beyond the horizon. I suppose time had gotten a bit away from me, I hadn't realized how long it took me to find Zecora.
I flew back towards Ponyville. Breaks were good for one simple reason: sleep. I had gotten a new bed for my house a while back, still not as nice as the ones in the Crystal Empire, but it was a large improvement over the mat in my tent.
Before I made it into town a bright sparkling light appeared above it. I stopped my magic and squinted as the light nearly blinded me, forcing me to raise a hoof to my eyes to see. The light seemed to fall to the ground, growing dimmer as it fell. It reached the ground and an even brighter light appeared, slowly growing brighter. There was a flash, and then nothing. The light disappeared.
What the hay is going on? I slowly lurched forward on my sword to see where the light had landed. I spotted a group of ponies looking at the spot where the light seemed to have landed, but instead there was no light and instead what looked like the silhouette of an Alicorn. I flew closer, within hearing distance and was able to get a closer look. I finally recognized the group of ponies who were looking at the Alicorn; Twilight's friends.
"Twilight? Is that you?" I heard Applejack ask.
My focus immediately shifted onto the Alicorn. I squinted my eyes to see if Applejack was right, but that couldn't have been... it was impossible to think-
It was Twilight! The sudden realization caused me to gasp. It seemed to have synced up to the rest of her friends as they realized it was her too.
"Wha... I- I've never seen anything like it!" exclaimed Applejack.
No bucking kidding, nothing like this had ever happened before! There were only myths about something like this happening. The others continued to converse while I watched from the rooftops, not paying attention to what was said.
How did she manage to become an Alicorn? My brain could hardly manage to process the amount of magic it would have taken for something like this to happen, each time I was left without an answer. She even looked like a Princess. No, this couldn't really be happening.
But then I heard an all too familiar voice. "That's because she is a Princess."
I looked back to confirm who had said that. Exactly as I thought, it was Princess Celestia, as if she appeared out of nowhere. I could hardly believe my eyes or ears. Celestia herself saying that Twilight was now a Princess?
"A... a Princess?" asked Twilight confused.
Yes. A Princess. Congratulations Twilight, you've done the impossible. Try not to waste it being a tyrannical leader.
"Since you've come to Ponyville, you've displayed the charity, compassion, devotion, integrity, optimism, and of course, the leadership of a true princess," answered Celestia.
"But... does this mean I won't be your student anymore?"
That was seriously the thing she was most worried about?
"Not in the same way as before. I'll still be here to help and guide you, but we're all your students now, too. You are an inspiration to us all, Twilight." Celestia knelt down and bowed to Twilight, and the rest of her friends followed.
My jaw almost ran right through the roof and down to the bottom floor. I couldn't handle it anymore. I got back on my sword and fueled as much magic into it as I could, flying off back to Canterlot.
One question continued to spin in my mind. How? How? How? Why? How and why? I guess that was two questions, but they both focused on the same thing. How did Twilight become an Alicorn? Why did she become an Alicorn? Was she really that special to become a Princess? She might have been an amazing friend to some, but in no way had I ever thought of her as being a leader.
Maybe she wasn't going to be a leader. Princess of what exactly? There wasn't much for her to rule, if anything at all. Celestia and Luna already did a perfect job at it, did they really need another Princess to help? The questions continued to spin.
I arrived back at Canterlot in record time, flying right to my tent. I opened the flap, walked in and laid down, putting my sword to the side.
I just wanted tonight to be over at this point. I drowned out the noise coming from outside and quickly fell asleep, hoping tomorrow might have something good in store, but I could only expect the worst.
I woke up the moment the sun fully shown across Equestria, a small glimmer of its light made its way into my tent and across my eye. I stirred, sitting up and squinting at the light, trying to rub some of the dust out of my eyes.
I looked around the tent and spotted my sword. I reached out and grabbed it by the hoof, feeling the cold metal. I realized how much I never really held the thing, always either using my magic on it or wearing it around my waist like a belt. It captivated me in some way. It was a rather precious sword. Built with Equestrian Gold and a fine steel. And those gems, those gems were like eyes. They could stare at you for an eternity, no living creature could ever hope to win in a staring contest.
Before I was sucked away in the stones my attention was stolen away by the sounds coming from outside. I left the sword and opened the flap to my tent, seeing what all the commotion was about.
Everywhere. It was everywhere. News that Twilight Sparkle was going to be coronated as a new Princess of Equestria. Everyone was talking about it, even the guards were. As one pony or another passed by the greeted me with either 'Did ya hear about Twilight's coronation?' or 'Twilight's getting coronated as a new Princess! Isn't it exciting?'
I had nearly forgotten last night. Sleep always came so quickly for me, and with a guard's attitude I was always forgetting the past and pushing towards a safe future.
I walked out of the tent and made my way to the barracks. I had to dodge and swerve around guards as they were busily making their way to their patrols, some even managing a 'Good morning, Lieutenant' towards me. Nothing felt very good about this morning, the same feeling of confusion continued to overwhelm me.
Too much was going on at once. Too many questions for so many things, and not nearly enough answers.
I found Justice outside of the barracks, giving out orders to the numerous guards that continued to pour in as fast as he could.
I waited as the line of guards dissolved and Justice finally had a moment to speak.
"Busy day today, Shield," greeted Justice. Well good morning to you too. "I can't help but feel a bit regretful for putting you on break for the weekend, I could really use your help with all this."
"So I see. Is the coronation really that important to be having the whole 'Guard up at dawn and moving out as fast as possible?" I asked groggily.
The Captain continued to send guards one way or another. "We've got a lot going on. Some of the 'Guard are being used at the coronation by pulling Princess Twilight's chariot, or even singing in the choir. The rest are maintaining a strong presence. With something as huge as a Princess's coronation, we don't want any complications or problems. Lots of preparation needs to be handled. Still wish I had your organizing skills to assist, but I guess I shouldn't complain. How's the break gone for you?"
"I don't know. I was never good at knowing how to take a break, I'd rather be helping out." Except that wasn't entirely true. Helping plan out Twilight's coronation was the last thing on my to-do list. Still wasn't sure what the first thing was.
"Well I won't be having any of that. By the way, you got an invitation to the coronation itself. Shining Armor, Cadance, and a lot of other important ponies will be there. I'm too busy with the 'Guard to go myself, but I think you'd enjoy it. The invitation is in your locker. I gotta get over to the castle, you take care." Justice left for the castle, leaving me to find my invitation.
I walked into the barracks and down a hall to the locker room, where most of our business related mail got sent to. I found mine and opened it up to find a small pale letter addressed to me. I reluctantly opened it up with my magic.
Sure enough it was a simple letter and invitation to the castle to see Twilight's coronation in person. I tucked it under my sword-belt. I might as well attend, there was nothing better for me to do at the time.
I spent the time before the coronation watching the citizens gather up in the courtyards of the castle. Half an hour before it was supposed to start it looked like half of Equestria had showed up.
I went back to my tent and picked up my tuxedo and quickly put it on. I wasn't about to show up with nothing fancy on. I might not have liked Twilight, but I had to keep it stylish.
When the time came I flew over to the castle and showed the guard at the door my invitation. I was let in and eventually found myself in the same room Cadance's wedding took place. I took my place in the back, almost the same spot I had been before Chrysalis attacked. A strange sense of déjà-vu overcame me.
Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadance were in front. They waited a few minutes until everyone was settled in and present, and then Celestia began.
"We are gathered here today in celebration of a momentous occasion. My most faithful student, Twilight Sparkle, has done many extraordinary things since she's lived in Ponyville. She even helped reunite me with my sister, Princess Luna. But today, Twilight Sparkle did something extraordinary. She created new magic, proving without a doubt that she is ready to be crowned Equestria's newest princess. Fillies and gentlecolts, may I present for the very first time, Princess Twilight Sparkle!"
The doors opened and everypony turned to see the new Princess. Twilight Sparkle entered, dressed in an amazing white outfit, fit for a queen. A choir followed her, singing to behold the new Princess Twilight. Even some of the Royal Guards were part of it.
Everyone looked so happy, clapping and cheering over the new Princess. I was probably the only one in the room not doing the same. I could see Shining Armor up in the front, a tear or two in his eyes.
I couldn't handle it. No. I snuck out the door while no one was looking, taking out my sword and transforming it. I hopped on and found the nearest window, opening it and flying out over the crowd. I could see Twilight coming onto the balcony with the Princesses.
Twilight looked down at all her new citizens. "A little while ago, my teacher and mentor Princess Celestia sent me to live in Ponyville. She sent me to study friendship, which is something I didn't really care much about. But now, on a day like today, I can honestly say I wouldn't be standing here if it weren't for the friendships I've made with all of you. Each one of you taught me something about friendship, and for that, I will always be grateful. Today, I consider myself the luckiest pony in Equestria. Thank you, friends. Thank you, everypony!"
Luckiest pony in Equestria. I could not find a better description than that. Lucky. Who knew how you could ever become a Princess out of luck?
A flash of light appeared beside me. I looked over and expressed my distaste with a sigh.
"Discord." I wondered where he had gotten to.
Discord spun around me, hovering overhead. "Don't be so glum, Swordy old boy! You don't need to act like such a big stick in the mud like your father was. What do you have against Twilight anyway? I don't remember her doing anything to you."
"I thought you of all ponies would know. There's a lot more she's done than she knows about, or rather what she hasn't done," I answered gruffly. "And don't compare me to my father, I'm nothing like him."
"Really now?" Discord spun around into my face. "Enlighten me."
I stared at Discord for a moment, reluctant to answer. Or maybe I just didn't know the answer? I couldn't tell for certain. I wasn't sure how to respond at all. What am I supposed to tell him?
"Fine, have it your way. I came all the way from Saddle Arabia on important business to say 'Hello!' and you can't even answer the simplest of questions." Discord turned around and began walking downwards as if there was an invisible staircase.
"Wait-" I flew down towards him, "-it wasn't a simple question. Or maybe it was, I can't truly tell. Twilight is great, she saved Equestria multiple times, found the true meaning of friendship, is one of the most successful magicians of all time and has everything she could have ever wanted. But she tells it like it is: She got lucky, and I inherited the bad luck. I had tried to save Equestria myself on a number of occasions, and you know how many times I was denied that to Twilight? Just because she happened to get lucky one time?"
"Seven times," answered Discord.
It took me by surprise. "Seven?"
"There were many more times you could have taken opportunity to 'Save Equestria' than you realize. Nightmare Moon, myself, the changeling invasion, King Sombra, all of them were just the big ones. Equestria's citizens have been in danger on hundreds of occasions. In your time, there have been seven of such occasions you lost to Twilight. And dozens more times when Twilight went out of her way to solve more minor problems. She's been around. Much more than you have, Sword Shield. It wasn't just luck, it was friendship. The same thing she and her friends taught me."
"Well I was always too busy working in the Royal Guard or dealing with family to make any friends, and now I'm not sure I have any left," I paused but my mouth remained open. A thought had struck my head that seemed ridiculous, and I tried to get rid of it as fast as I could, but it wouldn't leave. It plagued my mind like Parasprites. I was shaken back to reality as Discord waved his paw in front of me. I looked back at him. "Now if you'll excuse me, Discord, I need... to speak with my Captain." I didn't notice the shield disappearing.
I couldn't deny the idea anymore. I had to leave, get as far from Princess Twilight as possible. I had to quit the Royal Guard.
The logic in my mind conflicted over the idea like Cerberus arguing with each head over who gets the meat. I couldn't serve Twilight, but I hated leaving my job. It meant everything to me, without it I wasn't sure where to go. Always my daily routine, get up, get to my station and work all day, go to bed. I had purpose in that. But now... I couldn't see the purpose.
I flew down to the Royal Barracks and into the Captain's office. I found him chatting with Shining Armor when I got there.
They both turned their attention on me as I walked in.
"Hey, Swordulan! Good to see you again," greeted Shining Armor. "Were you at the coronation? I didn't see you."
I glanced at him. "I was in the back."
"Anything you need, Lieutenant?" asked Justice.
"Yes, Captain Morningstar. Something my mind can't understand why, but I believe my heart does. Sir," I looked at both of them in the eye. "I have to quit."
The smiles on their faces disintegrated immediately.
"What?" asked Shining Armor with disbelief.
Justice stared at me hard, searching for any possible signs of me lying. "I know you play pranks from time to time, but this is serious. What are your reasons?"
I shook my head. "My reasons are my own. I've made up my mind, and I believe it's time for me to go. For how long I'm not sure, but I think someday I'll come back, if you'll have me. I'm sorry."
Shining Armor nodded. "If you believe it's the best choice for you, I'm in full support, though I might have a harder time sleeping knowing you aren't helping keep these boys in check."
Justice sat down, hooves crossed and looking disappointed. "I don't think it is necessary for you to quit on such short notice. If you come back I can't promise there will still be a spot for another Lieutenant."
"I know. I believe in your ability to keep the 'Guard going, you don't need me. Not like this. My tent is cleared, anything in my locker is worthless to me as of now. So I guess this is goodbye." I turned towards the door ready to leave everything behind, but I stopped as I felt a hoof grab my back.
I turned to see it was Shining Armor. "Not goodbye," he said. "Just so long for now."
Both Shining Armor and Justice stood up tall and gave me a salute. I turned towards them both and saluted back. "You haven't seen the last of me, you can be sure of that."
I trotted out the door and levitated out my sword, the only object I still had on me, and transformed it to fly. I hopped on, aiming east to the last place I needed to visit. Manehatten. I hesitated a moment, looking back at the Barracks and over the walls of Canterlot. I levitated myself up into the air, getting a view of the city. Much of it was still celebrating.
"Goodbye, Canterlot. Stay safe and avoid any world destroying catastrophes, though I'm sure Twilight can always save you."
I sped off towards Manehatten. It was gonna be a bit of a flight, but there was one last pony I needed to finally talk to. My father.
As I flew past trees and train tracks anxiety built up within me. I hadn't seen him in ages, even though I'm sure it was less time than that. I passed the time counting how many trees went by as I traveled. One hundred and sixteen, though I think I missed a few.
I arrived at Manehatten with my magic almost all drained out. I landed in the middle of a wide street, crowded with ponies. My head throbbed from using so much magic to fly and made me a bit dizzy. I shook it off and continued down the street, making my way to my parent's apartment.
Even though I managed to shake off most of the dizziness I still felt weird. It was as if the life was drained out of me. I continued to walk around Manehatten, zig zag pattern, and finally found the right apartment.
I walked inside and made my way through the hallways and staircases until finding the correct door. I swallowed my anxiety and knocked. I probably looked like a mess, after flying for so long, but I didn't have time to fix up. I hadn't even bothered taking off my tuxedo, which was now sweaty and dirty with a few bug stains.
After waiting a long minute the door opened. My mothers face slowly came into view. She looked older, a lot older. As she looked up at me her face filled with shock, as if she had just seen a ghost.
"S-Swordulan, what are you doing here? Did you hear the news?" she asked almost sounding afraid.
I moved in closer, but she pulled away. "Mom, are you okay? What news? Where's dad?"
"He's... he's gone," she answered with her eyes welling up.
The weight of the word slammed into me like a train off the rails. I didn't need any more explanation, just one last question.
"When?" I asked emotionlessly.
"A week after you left."
A week after I left? That was months ago. "Why wasn't I told about this?"
She didn't answer. She just pulled back inside her apartment and closed the door on me, leaving me in the hall. I could hear her sobbing.
"I came back to forgive him," I said through the door. "So when you see him again, tell him for me."
I walked through the halls and down the stairs, finding my way back outside again. He was gone, and now I wasn't sure where to go. I needed to find friends, ponies I could trust. A wave of vertigo washed over me, my life still feeling drained.
I walked the streets, only half conscious, looking for an address. After asking for directions I knew where to go. I ran up a street and down another, finding a medium sized apartment which fit the description I got. I walked inside and found the book of the door numbers and found the correct name.
With what strength I had left I trotted up a staircase and down a short hallway. I found the correct door and knocked. Another wave of vertigo churned my stomach.
The door opened and a bright blue young colt answered the door. He gasped with delight and turned around.
"Mommy! Mommy! It's Lieutenant Shield!" he shouted.
I gave him a weak smile and a third wave of vertigo hit me harder than before. I fell to the floor, only managing to look up to see a peach colored earth pony.
"Oh my gosh, what happened?" I heard her ask, but the sound in my ears was starting to become muffled.
"Help me," was all I could manage.
And then the lights went dark.
I'd like to say that everything will be okay, that everything will turn out alright, that with time I might be able to correct myself, but like the Royal Guard taught me: Hope for the best, expect the worst. I couldn't see any light at the end of the tunnel, not yet anyway. I just hoped when I got there it would be happy to see me.