Mark was having a very strange time right now.
After assaulting the fort that the thieves were hiding in and taking back Ninian’s ring, Mark had tripped and bruised his leg badly enough that he needed to rest it for a few hours, even with Serra’s healing. This meant that he had to ride a horse.
‘Is this messed up or am I just overreacting?’
‘I think your overreacting, you actually don’t have to walk anymore, you should do this more often.’
‘But I’m a pony riding a horse.’
‘Pony-turned-human riding a horse so it’s not weird for everyone else.’
‘Except me.’
‘At least mount wasn’t used in any sentences, that would be an awkward innuendo for you.’
‘Yah, I don’t think I could take it if anyone said that.'
“Remember, you can use my horse anytime Mark. It’s just too bad that the others wouldn’t let you mount their steeds.” Sain said to Mark.
‘FUUUUUUUUUUU-’
“Well Huey might let you mount her, if your ok with me on her too that is. She doesn’t like more than me and another mounting her at once.” Florina added quietly.
‘-UUUUUUUUUUU-’
“Sain! That’s not true, I would have let Mark ride “Swift” as well. He would just be behind while I’m up front.” Kent said in a scolding voice.
‘-UUCCCKKK!!!!!’
“Markey, are you ok big bwuder, your face is flushed and your eye is twitching!” Serra asked in a mixture of concern and sibling ribbing.
“That’s it, I’m getting off the horse!” Mark said rather loudly attempting to maneuver himself off. Unfortunately he was met with the hard part of a staff to the back of the head.
“Mark, NO! Cleric’s orders, you are not getting off of that horse until I say you’re better. Mark, are you listening. Stop pretending to sleep!” Serra said, her voice getting louder.
“Um, Serra I think you knocked him unconscious.” Nils said examining the slumped form that was Mark.
Serra’s eyes widened as she made an ‘0’ shape with her mouth, “Ooopsie.”
********************************************************************************************
“Leave me alone, do you have no idea who you’re messing with, fools.” Came the empty threat from a small black pegasus filly with a teal mane.
The group of ponies just laughed, “Hahahehe, you think you’re so tough do yah.” One of them pushed her. “Let’s show this little pipsqueak who’s boss boys.”
“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”
Everypony turned to the source of the voice only to find a small yellow unicorn colt giving them a defiant smirk. “And who do you think you are, you little brat?”
The unicorn began walking past the group towards the bullied pegasus, “Oh, nopony important. In fact I was just passing by, when I saw a bunch of dummyheads picking on a single filly, so I thought I’d intervene.” the unicorn nudged the filly a bit towards the right.
This sent the group into hysterics, “A-and what do you think you can do to us HAHAHA!!!”
The unicorn kept was now pushing the filly to the right, “I couldn’t do that much...” he quickly turned around and bucked the tree that was nearby as hard as his little legs could. He smiled when he heard the crack he was waiting for. “But that hive of hornets might be able to.” He said before backing away to the right with the filly as the hive that was barely holding onto the branch descended, right onto bullies.
“AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!”
The little colt turned to the filly, his smile still there, “And this is where we run.” he said before going into a sprint towards an open window to their right. The filly quickly followed.
When the two entered the building through the window, the colt quickly closed it behind them as the filly got a look at her new surroundings. It seems that they were in an old abandoned home, as the other windows were boarded up. One of the other things she noticed was that there was a bunch of cardboard boxes, pillows, and blankets and books making a mini fort.
“Welcome to my secret hideout. I’m only letting you in here cause it was close and those jerks needed to learn not to mess around on my turf.” The colt said as he plopped onto a pillow. “Remember, don’t tell anyone about it. It’s a secret.”
The filly couldn’t take it anymore, she began laughing. She started laughing so hard that she was rolling on the floor and trying to get her breath back.
“HEY, whats so funny?! I just saved your flank!” the yellow unicorn said looking offended as he rose from his pillow.
“I-it’s *snicker* not you *haha* but those dummies *HAHAHAHAHAHA*” she started laughing again.
The colt realized why she was laughing, *Snort* Yah, their faces were priceless huh?” He said before laughing just as hard as the filly.
When both of their laughter died down, the unicorn plopped onto his pillow again, offering one to the pegasus which she happily took.
“So, what’s your name? I’ve never seen you around here before.” he asked.
“My name is Chrys..... uh.... Crystal Orchid. Whats yours?”
“My name’s Marked Defiance, but just call me Marked. Not Mark. My brother’s the only one that calls me Mark, and I hate it.” he said pouting.
“Well Marked, why’d you help me, I could’a taken them out myself.” Crystal replied raising her nose in the air.
“You looked in trouble, and I’m the only one who’s allowed to cause trouble around here.” Marked Defiance said jokingly.
“I think you and I are gonna get along just fine” Crystal said through a laugh.
********************************************************************************************
Mark opened his eyes but quickly closed them when he was blinded by the firelight. Slowly opening his eyes this time, he groaned as he sat up and rubbed the back of his head. “Dammit, what the in tartarus happened?”
“Ah!” Florina who was sitting nearby jumped from being startled, as she moved away from the awakened tactician.
“Oh, Mark, your awake. You’re just in time for dinner. Rath gave me some ingredients to help season a stew my tribe used to make.” Lyn said as she picked up an unused bowl and filled it with the stew.
‘This is the second time I’ve woken to her making me feel better.’
‘How long has it been?’
‘Here in Elibe? I lost track of time, but my best guess is almost a month.’
‘And in Equestria?’
‘I’m not sure. Remember, Luna said the time lapse varies every so often. But once again my best guess would be maybe a week or two.’
Mark looked around the fire and saw the Legion as well as the twins gathered around the fire conversing and having a good time, though Lyn, Florina, Rath, and Dorcas are the only ones who seemed aware that he was awake currently.
‘And now she has more friends than you.’
‘That’s not a bad thing, in fact I’m incredibly happy for her.’
‘Because you developed feelings for her.’
‘I’m not talking with you about this right now.’
Mark shook his heads from his inner thoughts as he came back to reality.
“Seriously though, what happened? I remember riding Sain’s horse, which I’ll never do again by the way, and then blank. Also how long was I out? Did I miss anything?”
Lyn smiled at Mark, “Well Serra said you fell asleep from exhaustion soon after we left the fort, though I get the feeling that she’s hiding something.” Lyn shrugged before handing Mark the bowl of stew and a wooden spoon.
Mark raised an eyebrow with a smirk, “So nothing bad happened? We weren’t attacked? Sain didn’t say something that would inevitably lead to fate taking a crap on us?”
“Wait, what was that last one?” Lyn giggled.
Mark just smiled as he took a sip from his stew. His eyes widened as he began to scoop up the delicious meal. There were vegetables in it and it had a nice flavor to it, but the best part was these little floating chewy bits in it. Finishing quickly he slurped it up, and asked, “Lyn, by all that is good in this world, tell me what is in that stew? It’s amazing.”
Lyn blushed a from the compliment, “It wasn’t much, just some vegetables, those spices I mentioned earlier and some rabbit.”
Mark’s paled, “Lyn, what did I tell you about me and meat.”
‘This again? come on, you’re human right now. Live a little. Meat is delicious.’
‘Maybe I’ll get used to the fact I find meat good eventually, but right now I’m not.’
“That’s right! You don’t eat meat where you come from. Where was that by the way?” Serra asked loudly as she seemed appeared next to a surprised Mark.
Now everyone knew he was awake. But hearing the question, stayed silent as they wanted to hear their tactician’s answer.
Mark paled more as he tried to say give a vague reply, “Um.. I come from... a different continent entirely.”
“Which one? I’m aware that there are several, though I’ve never met anyone from them.” Lucius asked in her soft voice.
Mark began scouring his brain for the names of the nearby continents.
“Um, well, Telli- NO- Akaneia! I‘m from Akaneia. Hehehe.” Mark replied rubbing his head in discomfort.
“...Stop lying.” was all Rath had to say before everyone looked between him and a wide eyed and frozen Mark.
Mark stuttered, “I-I’m not-”
“Mark, I have met enough people to tell when one is lying or at least hiding something. This is added to the fact that your mannerisms are strange and whenever you lie or say something not entirely true, you avoid direct eye contact. I may trust in your skills at tactics, Mark, but you have not yet earned my trust in you yourself. The only reason I’ve followed your orders is because Lyndis trusts you.” Rath said in a serious tone.
Mark gulped, “That may be the most I’ve ever heard you talk-”
“You also tend to change the subject.” Rath interrupted.
‘Well, shit’
“Rath! Leave Mark alone! He doesn’t have to say anything if he doesn’t want to!” Serra defended her adopted brother.
“Rath, Serra’s right, Mark’s personal history shouldn’t matter.” Lyn agreed.
“That’s right! Mark’s been a fellow to us since we started.” Sain added.
Kent decided to speak up, “That may not be entirely true lady Lyndis. We know the general reasons for everyone’s joining on our task as well as their loyalties and origins, except for Mark. I’d like to say that Mark’s an ally, but for all we know he could be planning something.”
Mark and Sain looked at Kent in disbelief.
Lyn looked at him as if he just insulted her, “Kent! How could you say something like that! Mark’s been with me since before we started trying to reach my grandfather.”
“Milady, forgive me, but then why is it that you avoid explaining how you two met? And he, where he came from?” Kent asked.
Lyn blushed at the memory of how she found Mark without clothes, “I-I found him on the plains unconscious.”
“Why was he unconscious? What if he has just been trying to get close to us this whole time to spring an elaborate trap! From what I’ve seen he’s smart enough for it.” Kent continued.
‘That was probably the most complimentary accusation I’ve ever received.’
‘Dammit, defend yourself or something.’
Mark shook himself out of his shocked stupor, “Kent, isn’t that taking it a bit far? Aren’t you being paranoid?”
Kent gave the tactician a suspicious glare, “Mark, I have to be paranoid and try to think of all the possible outcomes and obstacles for lady Lyndis’ safety.”
Mark crossed his arms, “Isn’t that my job as the tactician? How long has this been eating at you? I honestly thought we were friends, or at least got along well.”
“Yes it is your job, but I can’t truly leave it up to you, since you are also the most suspicious one. Don’t get me wrong, I do consider you a friend, but my duty must come first, and I’ve had suspicion ever since you kicked down Sain after he insulted the names that you possibly made up.” Kent replied.
Lyn stepped forward looking furious, “That’s because those were the names of his friends! Whether he made them up or not, I’m sure that Mark had good reason for the things he does.”
Kent bowed to Lyn, “Forgive me milady but I’m only trying to look out for your safety.”
Lyn was still mad though, “No! I’m not going to let this one slide Kent. You’ve just insulted one of the first friends I’ve had in a long time. I understand your concern, but I have the utmost faith in Mark-”
“Lyn, he has a point.” Mark said.
Lyn and the legion froze as they turned to Mark, whose head hung low.
“What did you-” she began but was interrupted by Mark.
“I said, he has a point Lyn. You all have every right to be suspicious of me. Tartarus, if I were in your shoes I’d be suspicious of me too. I have avoided speaking about myself for reasons that are my own.”
“Mark I-” Mark raised his hand to Lyn to tell him that he wasn’t finished.
“And so, for right now, I’ll try to answer any questions that you have. However, I will let you know now that I may be unable to go into detail, nor explain things properly. You will just have to take what I can give. If you can’t accept that then fine.” Mark said in a defeated tone as he looked at all the legion.
Clapping his hands together he continued, “Ok, we’ll go in a circle, starting with Kent and ending with Rath. You’ll all take turns asking questions, and as I said, I’ll answer what I can.”
‘You sure about this?’
‘I don’t think I have a choice.’
“And how do we know your not going to lie?” Kent asked.
“You don’t. But apparently, I have a couple of tells.” Mark said glancing at Rath.
He pointed to the red knight, “Kent your up first, what’s your question?”
“Do you intend harm on lady Lyndis in any way shape or form.”
“No. Not if I can help it. Kent, despite how I act sometimes I care deeply for my friends, I considered Lyn my first friend in Elibe until we met you at Bulgar and I’ll be damned if I let anything happen to her.” Lyn blushed a bit when she heard that. “Florina your next?”
The peg. knight tried to hide behind Huey as all the attention focused on her, “Um... well it’s a stupid question-”
Mark smiled at her shyness, “Florina there is no stupid questions. And if there were, it would have been Kent’s.” This got chuckles from Sain and Matthew. “So please just ask.” Mark said reassuringly.
“Um, mine is just... why is it that before every battle you put on your hood, even when it’s dark.” she asked.
“It makes me look mysterious.” Mark joked, although he just received ‘Are you an idiot?’ looks from everyone. He sighed, “Because Florina, to me, it helps me focus and think. It also obscures some of my vision a bit so that I can focus more directly on what I do see. That was a good question, I hadn’t honestly noticed or even thought about it till you asked.
'Plus it makes you look like a badass.'
'Got that right.'
Florina nodded.
Wil was next in line for a question, “So Mark, why is Lyn avoiding the question about how she found you?”
Lyn turned five different shades of red as Mark just scratched his chin thoughtfully. “Well, first you all have to know that my coming here to Elibe was an accident. The next part, well, where I’m from, clothes aren’t necessarily a...necessity.” Mark said with a smile.
‘Oh this should be good.’
Mark looked around at the Legion. The girls were all blushing profusely, Lyn, so much, Mark thought she was glowing. Rath, Dorcas, and Kent just stared, as if Mark had just sprouted another pair of arms. Wil, Sain, and Nils jaws had dropped so far that Mark thought a bug might fly in there. Matthew on the other hand was laughing his ass off at the others reaction, Mark soon followed suit.
“Y-you must be kidding, no clothes!” Wil asked for confirmation, clearly not believing a word Mark said.
“HAHAHA *snicker*, Nope, all she found me in was this cloak HAHAHAHA!!!” Mark managed to get out before laughter overcame him again.
Everyone except Matthew and Mark, turned to Lyn looking for the truth. Lyn blushed even harder if that was possible, avoiding eye contact with them as much as she could, “I-its true. He was bare, unconscious, and covered in crushed cherries when I found him.” she muttered.
Matthew and Mark had begun to calm down, but upon seeing everyone watching them they burst out into uproarious laughter, again.
Mark tried his best to calm down from his laughter, “*HAHA*, OW! My sides!!!*HAHAHA!* Sorry *HA*, just give me a sec HA.” Mark began taking deep breaths. Until he was finally able to speak.
Wiping a tear from his eye from laughing so hard, he continued to talk. “I’m sorry, about that. But your faces were just too priceless. *Snicker* Anyways, yes, it’s true that I was naked when Lyn found me, and I was covered in cherries due to a prank by my friend. Anyways next question goes to Erk.” He gestured to the purple haired mage.
“I don’t really know or care too much about you Mark. But if I have to ask a question, it’s going to be why in the Elimine’s name have you been pairing me up with her” Erk pointed at Serra “every battle?”
“Because I love watching you squirm.” Mark said with a smile as Erk scowled.
“But in all seriousness, Erk you are a mage with a lot of potential. In my opinion you just need practice. Practice that you won’t get, by getting too injured or dying. So I’m sticking you close to our favorite and only resident healer. Besides your supposed to be escorting her anyways. Next up is Dorcas.”
Erk looked at Mark, surprised that he had gotten a serious answer after all, as Mark turned to the burly man.
“...You never answered where your from or at least why you don’t want to talk about it.” was all Dorcas said.
Mark ran his fingers through his hair, “Yah, I figured someone would eventually ask this again. The reason I don’t talk about it is because I have a feeling that it will sound too unreal for you.” Mark paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing, “You see, where I’m from, we haven’t had any wars or anything of that scale for about 1000 years give or take. The closest we’ve gotten would be when an old chaos diety almost took over, or when our capital was attacked.”
“Wait, how are those not up to scale with a war? Usually retaliation is big on those sort of things.” Matthew chimed in.
“Well, both were taken care of by the elements in about a day. Basically our version of your legendary heroes, except their alive right now and live out normal lives. In fact, I’ve already told you their names.” He looked to Sain who was giving a sheepish smile.
“Wait! What are their names? You never told me!” Serra said like an excited child.
Mark sighed, ‘I hope this isn’t a repeat of before.’ “Don’t laugh...but our naming system is a bit different than it is here.” Mark inhaled and spoke, “Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Pinkamena or Pinkie as she likes to be called.”
Nobody laughed (especially Sain) to Mark’s relief, though Serra seemed to be stifling giggles.
“Then theres the fact that our rulers are probably the most powerful beings there.” Mark added.
“Your rulers?” Matthew asked with a strange curiousity.
“Yes, our kingdom is a diarchy of two princesses. I’m actually on first name basis with both of them given the fact I’m training under the royal tactician. Also I’m counting that as your question, Matt.” Mark smirked at the thief who just shrugged.
“Ok, next is Lucius.” Mark said turning to the blonde woman.
“Well, I had a previous question, but now I’m curious. You see all the names you gave except for Applejack sound feminine. Does that mean that your society is female dominated?” Lucius asked.
“Not unless you count the Princesses as rulers. I mean male and females are treated basically the same. Its the matter of our birth ratio.” Mark said scratching his chin. “I mean if you went there, you’d be treated like any other girl.” Mark grinned as he felt he needed to add it. “In fact all the boys would love to meet a lady such as you Lucius.”
“Um, Mark-” Lyn started before Sain interrupted.
“Well, I can’t have that happen, what if those men are too uncouth and rough on this beautiful sunflower!” Sain got up and walked towards Lucius. “Don’t worry my dear, no men shall bother you unwillingly as long as I am here to defend you.” Sain said as he grabbed Lucius’ hand.
Mark rolled his eyes as he got up to stop Sain. “Sain, really? Lucius is a capable young lady, she can take care of herself. Plus she can shoot light spear-things at people.”
“Lyn, those two don’t know, do they?” Florina asked.
“I-I don’t think that they do.” Lyn said surprised at what was happening.
“Then this should be a good show.” Mathew said as he watched in anticipation.
“Um, you two-” Lucius began.
“Sain, seriously I’m trying to not seem suspicious anymore and you can’t stop trying to hook up with girls.” Mark said
Sain looked affronted, “Well Mark, as a knight it is my duty to protect all women and children from men who might do them harm!”
“-this, I don’t know why this usually happens but-” Lucius continued.
Mark looked exasperated, “What did I just say about no wars in 1000 years! Besides the Princesses are very adamant in stopping pon- people from acting like that. They only failed when it came to Blueblood.”
“And protect them from this “Blueblood” I shall” Sain said striking a knightly pose.
“-I’m a man.” Lucius said calmly.
Mark and Sain literally froze in place, before turning their heads slowly to the blonde.
“W-what did you say? I don’t think we heard that right.” Mark and Sain said almost in unison.
“I said that I’m a man.” confirmed Lucius as she he took a sip from her his tea.
Mark was frozen dumbfounded, Sain on the other hand backpedaled until he tripped over a nearby log.
‘Well your mind is fucked right now huh?’
“B-but..how...you...”
‘Use your words like an grown up.’
Mark took a very deep breath before shouting from shock, “But you don’t look anything like a man! Your hair is way too long and your face is so feminine! The only thing separating you from a woman is the fact your chest is slightly flatter than Serra’s!”
‘Smooth. Wait watch ou-!!!’
A large clang was heard as the (empty) metal pot Serra threw hit Mark’s head.
“OW! Serra! What was that for?! All I said was that sh- that he had a flatter chest than you.” Mark said rubbing the spot the pot had hit.
Mark quickly ducked again, this time dodging the Kent’s shield, which had been near Serra. Unfortunately for Sain, who had recovered after tripping, the shield nailed him in the chest, knocking him back over.
“Mark you dummy. You don’t talk about a lady’s chest like that!” Serra shouted at the Mark as she looked for something else to throw.
“I’m sorry, but how am I supposed to talk about a lady’s chest then?! Please enlighten me because I apparently have no idea!”
Serra was absolutely fuming, “You-tha- Ugh! UUUUUUGHHH!” was all she managed to let out before Lyn put a hand on her shoulder.
“Serra! Calm down. I really don’t think he knows why he shouldn’t say things like that,” She shot a glare at the tactician, “right?”
Mark just nodded furiously, his eyes widening as he saw the next object Serra was reaching for.
Serra stopped reaching for the Mani Kati when she thought about what Lyn said. Then looked Mark straight in the eyes. “Well, ok then, but I expect a FULL apology later, understood?” Serra said in her usual arrogant tone.
Mark just continued nodding as Serra took her seat again. Clearly not as amused anymore, though Matthew looked like he might start breaking down in laughter again.
Mark took another deep breath to calm his nerves.
‘Well that could have been worse.’
‘No shit sherclop.’
‘What are we apologizing for again?’
‘I have no idea. But you insulted her somehow.’
‘Dammit.’
“Ok, next question goes to Sain.” Mark said as he turned to the knight who was just laying on the ground at this point.
“As long as I don’t get hit with anymore surprises or shields I think I am fit to ask a question about your origin. But let it be known, I do trust you Mark, I don’t think you would do anything to purposely betray us. Now for my question, What did you mean by birth ratio? I don’t quite understand.” Sain said as Mark decided to cut Sain some slack and help him back to his feet.
“Actually this part I’m a little reluctant to tell you, Sain.”
Sain took an offended pose, “What?! But you answered everyone else’s questions so far and then some. Why would you not answer mine?”
‘Crap I really don’t think I should tell him.’
‘You think he’ll do something stupid?’
‘I guess I’ll find out the hard way.’
Mark sighed, “Sain its not the answer itself I’m afraid to give. Its who I’m giving it to. But yes, I will answer your question.” Mark said as he took his seat again. “You see the birth ratio where I’m from is 7:4.”
Everyone was confused except for Florina, Rath, Erk, and Kent, who understood what he meant but was surprised at the answer.
“Mark, what do you mean 7:4? That doesn’t make sense.” Lyn asked.
‘Well, here we go.’
“What I mean by that, Lyn and everyone who doesn’t understand demography or fractions, is that out of every 11 poni- I mean people born, only 4 are male. And thats just a current rough estimate.”
Lyn’s eyes widened, “Wait! So what your saying is-”
“That the majority of my home’s population is female.” Mark said simply.
Sain looked like he was piecing things together. “So what your saying is, the majority of your people are female, you live in a peaceful land, AND clothes aren’t necessary.”
Mark gave an unsure nod as he didn’t like where this was going.
Sain turned to Lyn with the fiercest determination Mark had ever seen in his eyes, and grasped her hand, “Milady, I propose that I personally escort Mark back to his homeland after our business with Lundgren is taken care of! Please, allow me to keep our dear friend and tactician as safe as possible.”
Mark, Kent, and Erk, facepalmed.
“Sain you oaf! We have an oath and responsibility to keep lady Lyndis safe, all the time! You can’t just decide to go on a vacation to meet ladies!” Kent scolded harshly.
Sain looked as if Kent had crushed his very dreams before bowing his head, “You’re right Kent. It is my duty as a knight to keep milady safe.”
‘Man, now I feel sorry for the poor guy.’
‘Well theres nothing you can do.’
‘I’ll tell him he can visit sometime.’
‘But he can’t.’
‘He doesn’t know that.’
“Sain, if you’re so adamant about coming to Equest- to my homeland, I can ask the princesses to provide an escort if they are able.” Mark lied, hoping that it would at least make Sain feel better.
Sain looked to Mark, hope restored, “Mark, you are truly a dear friend. It is a shame that some” Sain glanced at Kent and Rath, “just can’t seem to see the goodness in you that lady Lyndis and I see.”
“Don’t mention it.” Mark replied waving a dismissive hand.
‘Seriously, don’t.’
“Alright, next up is Nils and Ninian” Mark said as he looked to the twins.
Nils was the first to respond, “How does your hair do that?”
Mark instinctively reached for his hair. Then looked back to Nils in confusion.
“I mean the white at the ends of it.”
Mark’s mouth formed and ‘0’.
“Actually, my hair is just naturally this way. I don’t know the specifics as to why only the ends are white, but between this enigma and Pinkie, I’ve learned to just accept it.” Mark said, now playing with the white in his hair as he turned to the other twin.
“Um, Mark, sir. Actually, may I ask you my question in private?” Ninian asked.
“Sure, I guess” Mark said shrugging before turning to Lyn, “then you’re up Lyn.”
Lyn gave Mark a conflicted look, “Actually Mark, I have more than one question. But I’m trying to figure out which one to ask.”
“You know what Lyn, because it’s you, I’ll make an exception and you can ask two. I mean really, your the one who deserves to know me the most so I’ll cut you some slack.” Mark said with a warm smile.
‘Your just allowing it cause you have feelings for her.’
‘Maybe, but thats none of your business.’
‘It is because I’m you, except cooler.’
‘Yah, but I’m the one in control.’
‘Prick.’
‘Jackass.’
“No, I couldn’t. It wouldn’t be fair for everyone else who only could ask one question.” Lyn replied.
“Lyn, if you think about it, it’s not really unfair, since their going to be listening to my answer as well. Besides I’m generously offering this and this is the third time you’ve tried to pass a generous offer. So please just ask away before I change my mind.” Mark told her like a teacher scolding a student.
Lyn’s expression was neutral, “Mark, those other two times were different. You’re my friend, you already have my complete trust and I believe that you will just tell me when you feel like it. Am I right?”
Mark blinked a couple of times before his mouth creased into a warm smile.
“Thanks Lyn. That really means a lot to me. Go ahead and ask your question before I get all mushy.”
“Well, its just... why is it that your name sounds so normal compared to your friends? I mean, do you have Elibean ancestry too?” Lyn asked
“Actually Lyn, I had no idea Mark was a normal name here. In fact, Mark isn’t even my full name” he paused in memory as his tone saddened a bit, “it was... it was the nickname my brother gave me. It used to irk me so much, but it was still what he called me.”
Lyn looked like she was about to say something but Mark put his hand up indicating he wasn’t finished.
“However, you’re probably wondering what my full name is. So I guess I will re-introduce myself.” Mark said as he got up and bowed “My name is Marked Defiance, self-proclaimed jokester, friend of the element bearers, and student to my land’s royal tactician. I like to go by the name of "Mark" however, so please call me that.”
Everyone just nodded (apparently expecting a stranger answer than the no clothes one).
Mark looked to his unofficially adopted sister with a smirk, “And your up Serra, as long as you don’t throw anything else.”
Mark chuckled when Serra pouted, but a mischievous grin spread on her face. “So...Markey...With all those girls back home, do you have anyone waiting for you? Like a suitor, fiance, or lover?” Serra asked, fluttering her eyelashes as Mark just stared back, flabbergasted.
Everyone else, stared at Mark, expecting an answer, while the tactician just sat there wide eyed and jaw dropped.
After noticing everyones gaze, Mark composed himself, though his face now had a red hue to it. “Serra, you know better, and the answer is no. I don’t have any suitors, fiances, or lovers. Now can we please-”.
“Mark, don’t use the plural. That’s grammatically wrong and may cause misunderstandings.” Lucius corrected.
“Misunderstandings for what?” Mark asked, now confused.
“Well when you use the plural like that it makes it sound like you’re courting more than one woman.” she he said simply.
“Yah, that’s why I used the plural. Because of the difference in numbers between male and females, some poni- some people have multiple wives or lovers. Though recently, it has become somewhat uncommon.” Mark noticed the looks the others were giving him. “What? is it something I said?”
“M-Mark! Are you saying you have polygamy where you’re from?!” Serra asked in surprise.
“Yah. Why?” Mark asked.
‘What’s the problem?’
“It goes against the teachings of St.Elimine!” Both Lucius and Serra exclaimed.
‘Oh.’
‘Cultural thing.’
“But Sacaens and citizens of the western isles used to do it often, it’s written in one of my books. And besides haven’t you heard of cultural relativism? What may be wrong to your ‘teachings’ is acceptable to another culture or society, in this case my homeland.” Mark stated in a matter of fact tone.
Lucius rubbed herhis temples, “You are correct Mark, it’s just very surprising is all.”
Mark, turned to the final person and the one who started this whole fiasco.
“Alright Rath you’re the final person, ask away.” Mark said in a somewhat icy voice, hoping that the sacaen wouldn’t ask something too harsh or bring up anything as uncomfortable as the last conversation.
“.....No. You’ve answered with honesty. I’ll trust you for now.” Mark sighed in relief “Besides everyone has some secrets, and you yourself are not really a threat to me or to Lyndis. I was only worried that you could be associated with someone who might be.” Rath stated in his usual tone.
“Should I feel insulted or happy that you just said I’m trustworthy for being a weakling?” Mark asked with smirk.
“Take it as you will.” was Rath’s curt reply.
********************************************************************************************
Mark sighed as he leaned up agains the tree and looked towards the night sky.
After the little ‘fireside interrogation’ as he liked to call it, Mark had felt exhausted mentally.
‘At least I didn’t give away anything important.’
‘Like the fact you’re a pony from a land of creatures that don’t exist here.’
‘Yah, that.’
“Um, Sir Mark?”
Mark looked to the side and saw Ninian standing there.
“Thats right. You wanted to ask your question in private.” Mark looked around and saw nothing. “Well I think we’re alone, so this is probably as private as it will get. Also, just call me Mark, none of this “sir” stuff, ok.”
“Well si- Mark, when you explained where you were from it sounded wonderful. I just have to ask if you know what Equestria is.” Ninian said, looking into Mark’s widening eyes.
‘HOLY SHIT!’
“H-how did you know?” ‘Cause you explained it earlier.‘ mentally slapped himself, “D-does that mean you’re from Equis as well? Are you a pony too? How did you get here?”
Ninian shook her head, “No, me and my brother are... dragons. We descended from the dragons that used to live here in Elibe. You said that you had gotten here by accident, but me and my brother...We were forced here by a unicorn.” she said grimly
Mark’s stared in disbelief.
‘Who would do something like that?’
‘I don’t know, there hasn’t been a unicorn evil enough to do something like that in awhile.’
‘Since Sombra, and that’s not exactly true. Remember, Manehatten wasn’t exactly easy for anypony.’
‘Well, when we leave for home, lets take them with us.’
“Ninian, if that is the case, when I learn to control my magic again, I’ll bring you and Nils with me when I leave. Then we can appeal to Celestia and Luna to get this unicorn brought to justice!” Mark told her trying cheer her up
She looked directly into Mark’s eyes, “Mark, I believe that the only way me and Nils will be able to get back is through the Dragon Gate. Even if you tried using your teleportation on me or Nils, we are a special type of ice dragon.”
Seeing Mark’s confused expression she added, “We have a naturally strong resistance to magic.”Ninian paused for a second, obviously trying to find the best way to say her next part.
“The reason I’m telling you this.... is because I think Equestria is in danger. That unicorn had plans. When he kidnapped us, he thought that I was unconscious, but I was able to hear most of their conversation. He traded us to a man named Nergal in exchange for something. Something that could possibly tip the balance of power in his favor. Please, when you go back you have to warn the Princesses.” Ninian said desperately.
Mark looked at Ninian with concern, “What about you two? When I go what will happen to you? I can only assume that those guys chasing you work for this ‘Nergal’ character. Will you be alright?”
Ninian smiled, “Thank you for caring Mark, but me and Nils will make do as long as we stay together.”
Ninian looked at Mark again, this time a little worried. “Also, please promise me that this conversation will stay a secret until you get back to Equestria. I don’t believe that humans will be accepting of me or Nils if they found out that we were dragons. The scouring soured the image that they have for our kind.”
“Cross my heart, Hope to fly, Stick a Cupcake in my- OW! Sonofabitch!” Mark was covering the eye he had accidentally poked with his finger. Ninian giggled at his antics, her mood better.
Ninian gave Mark a warm smile and nod, “Thank you, Mark.” before walking back to the campsite.
Mark leaned back against the tree again as he rubbed the eye that he had poked.
‘Dammit, this has put a whole new spin on things.’
‘Now you have a whole other reason for going back though.’
‘True, but I hope I’m able to keep this hidden. If push comes to shove, I may be forced to tell someone my new reason for wanting to get back home.’
‘But you just pinkie promised.’
‘Pinkie doesn’t know right?’
‘But breaking a pinkie promise is breaking your friend’s trust, and losing a friends trust is the fastest way to losing a friend--’
******************************************************************************************
Meanwhile........
“FFFOOOOORRRRREEEVVVVERRRRR!!!” Pinkie shouted out as she popped out of a nearby basket.
“GAAH! Pinkie! What the hay was that for?!” Rainbow Dash said after getting the begeezus scared out of her by Pinkie.
“Teehee, I just had a feeling.” *Wink*
*******************************************************************************************
Mark felt an unnatural shiver go down his spine.
‘I understand. I shouldn’t do that to a friend. You’re right.’
‘Of course I am, I’m awesome.’
‘And your me now-’
Mark’s thoughts were interrupted when he heard some rustling from a nearby bush. Mark looked to the bush, and Lyn stepped out from behind it and let out a breath of relief. She glanced at Mark. Both looked at each other, surprise written all over there faces.
“Uh, hey Lyn, you didn’t happen to hear the earlier conversation, did you?” Mark asked nervously.
Lyn was currently blushing, “N-no, um, how long have you been there?”
“Since after my ‘interrogation’. Did you need anything?” Mark said with his trademark smirk.
“You didn’t happen to see or hear anything unusual in the last 5 minutes, right?” Lyn said her blush growing a bit.
Mark shrugged, “Not really, just nature and my thoughts. The occasional owl, the rustling of leaves, the fall of water-” Realization dawned on Mark.
‘There’s no streams nearby.’
‘Lyn just appeared from behind a bush’
‘OH CELESTIA!’
Mark and Lyn made brief eye contact before looking away, both red in the face.
Lyn, still avoiding eye contact, spoke up, “Um...Mark, I’m glad I found you actually. I had another, question, but I didn’t want it to make you uncomfortable in front of the others.”
“S-sure Lyn, you can ask me anything!”
“Well, you see....You’ve been very distracted lately. I asked some of the others, but they either didn’t know or didn’t tell me. Then I asked Serra, and she said that you were thinking about a girl. I just wanted to know if you were lying earlier about not having someone waiting for you.” Lyn said rubbing her arm.
‘Why did she sound nervous saying that last part?’
Mark looked to the distance, “The truth is Lyn, I have been thinking about a girl. I know I shouldn’t and I’ve honestly tried not to, but she keeps popping into my head.”
‘Doesn’t help that I see her everyday.’ Mark thought.
Lyn’s face fell, her hair covering eyes, “I..I see. I’m sorry, you don’t have to answer anymore if you don’t want to. Thank you for telling me. She must be a very special girl.”
Mark sighed, “She is. I haven’t even told her how I feel. And I don’t think I should. Not only would it not work out, she would probably hate me for it, or worse, get distracted in battle and die.”
‘Hey, if you really want to keep it a secret, you might want to watch what you say.’
‘What do you mean?’
Lyn perked up a bit, “In battle?”
‘Shit.’
‘Told you so.’
“Um, yah she’s a...um...she’s-” Mark’s heartrate rapidly sped up in panic.
‘Think of something.’
‘I can’t!!!’
Lyn put on a smile though her eyes told a different story, “It’s ok Mark, I won’t tell her.
Mark froze, “Huh?”
“Florina will figure it out on her own eventually, I understand that you don’t want her getting hurt or anything, especially with how she is around men.”
“But it’s n-” Mark began but stopped himself.
‘Do you want to really keep this a misunderstanding?’
‘I DON’T KNOW! This has never happened to me before!’
‘Misunderstandings happen to you alot.’
‘Not that. This, confessing or lack thereof.’
‘You’re still scared by what happened with Crystal.’
‘...Yes.’
‘If you don’t get this off your chest you’ll remain distracted and could get your new friends killed.’
‘Have I ever told you that I hate it when you’re right.’
“Lyn it’s not Flo-” Mark cleared his throat, “It’s not Florina that I like.”
Lyn looked to Mark in confusion.
Mark gathered his courage and spoke his heart out, “This girl, she’s...It should be wrong for me to be thinking this, but I find her to be the most attractive girl I’ve ever met. She’s beautiful, humble to a fault, and would do anything to ensure her friend’s safety.”
Lyn’s eyes widened as realization dawned on her.
“Lyn, I’ve only known you for almost a month now, but I can’t stop my feelings for you, no matter how much I’ve tried. I...I don’t...ugh, I’m sorry. I’m not good at this sort of thing.”
Mark took a deep breath before continuing.
“I can make jokes, insults, and strategize for almost any situation, but I can barely do anything romantic. If...If you don’t want to see me again, or anything like that after this, just say the word and I’ll go, or keep these feelings bottled up again. But I-”
Finally hearing enough, Lyn cupped Mark’s face with her surprisingly soft hands, silencing him. Lyn’s emerald eyes locked onto Mark’s Icy blue eyes.
Lyn expression was caring as she spoke, “Mark, you were with me since the beginning. If it hadn’t been for you, we likely wouldn’t have even gotten this far. I care for you. I don’t want you bottling up your emotions nor would I never want to see you again.” she giggled a bit as she added, “And it’s cute seeing you try to be a romantic.”
Mark blushed as he chuckled nervously, he probably did look ridiculous with all his recent stuttering.
Lyn released Mark’s face, her warm expression turning to one of sadness as she looked toward her feet avoiding eye contact. “What did you mean though? Earlier when you said it wouldn’t work out. Is it because I’m a noble now? Are your people not accepting of foreigners?”
Mark let out a sigh, “Lyn, believe me when I say this, but it’s not you it’s me. I mean this literally. I’d be lying if I said you were flawless, but I don’ think anyone with a heart could hate you.
Mark leaned his head up against the tree, thinking about what to say next.
“Lyn, I...I don’t think I’m ready to tell you everything else about me. I don’t have the courage for how you would react to it." ’As well as telling her you evolved from a horse might be a lot to take in.’ "But I want to thank you for accepting me. It must be hard, given the way I act sometimes.”
Lyn’s smile returned, “Well remember what I said back in Sacae, you are my master strategist and I, your peerless warrior. As well as my dear friend. Anyways, it’s getting late, an you need your rest.”
She was about to go but stopped herself when she thought of something. “But before I go-” Lyn quickly strode up to Mark and planted a kiss on his cheek causing both of them to blush. Lyn then hastily made her way to her tent back at camp.
Mark touched the spot that Lyn had kissed.
‘That went so much better than I had thought.’
‘See, I told you it would go better.’
‘When? All you did was provide annoying pushes for me to confess.’
‘Because I knew that it would go better.’
‘Liar.’
‘She’s right though, you need rest.’
‘Yah, I think I’ll have good dreams tonight.’
‘Or wet ones.’
‘I fucking hate you sometimes.’