*Author’s Notes*: So this chapter is extremely overdue it was meant for October as well and complements the other one quite well. I had a series of issues and school that kept me from writing but as soon as I finish writing chapter 20 it’ll be out soon! No spoilers but there is a tender moment in this chapter. Please comment, review, and enjoy!
Chapter 19:
Twilight was still trying to push the horrid images of Elder Scribe’s apparent suicide out of her mind. Still Princess Celestia was about to decide Dr. G’s fate so she waited holding Fluttershy and her own breath.
“Perhaps I’ve misjudged you Dr. Castlehoof. Although the only witness that could have proven your innocence has violently killed themselves there is still hope for your case yet.” She said her voice serious but no longer angry.
“How’s that, Your Highness?” Dr. G asked looking sad and confused.
“This letter addressed to you was found on the late Elder’s table. I think everyone in this room will find its content enlightening.” She said producing a scroll.
“Oh and what did that miserable Old Pony have to say?” Asked Dr. G irritated.
“Listen and you shall know.” Celestia replied then began reading.
“Dear Dr. Castlehoof,
I hope this letter finds you well, although, if you are reading this I imagine that two things have happened. One: I’m dead or will be soon and two: your lover is gravely injured. I know this will hard for you to believe but I now know that I was wrong in blaming you. It is impossible for me to undo my curse. Mephistopheles is an evil trickster who twisted my mind and heart into believing that you hadn’t done your best to save my darling Pogo. I have done some research in my last days here and while I can’t tell you how to beat the master of deception I can offer you this one helpful hint. ‘If you wish to reverse my curse, follow the clues in my verse. To Tartarus travel you must and fill not your heart with lust. Then challenge he who rules that land, and break his contract with your hand. Only then will this curse reverse. If you follow this note then only then will he have to give you the antidote! I’m sorry that I can’t offer anymore hints I feel him coming to collect my debt. My only solace is that this note may bring you closer to undoing what I did.
Regrettably Yours,
Elder Scribe”
Celestia finished.
There was an audible silence in the room. Twilight was trying to make sense of everything in her head. ‘To Tartarus Travel you must… Challenge he who rules that land and break his contract with your hand.’ “AH HA!” Twilight exclaimed shattering the silence. And quickly retreated upon feeling every pony’s eyes on her.
“Have you figured something out my faithful student?” Celestia asked looking intently.
“Well Princess. I think I have. We have to go to Tartarus and destroy the contract Elder Scribe made with Mephistopheles. The only problem is…” Twilight paused.
“That the only way to reach Tartarus is by following clues that Mephistopheles leaves on his victims.” Dr. G finished darkly.
“So that means that Princess Luna or where she was attacked will have a clue from the Devil himself.” Silverwing said out loud stating the obvious elephant in the room. Celestia didn’t look so angry any more now she had almost a pitying glance at the Vet.
“Well I guess we should start with Luna Dr. G.”
“Yes, let’s go.” He replied solemnly.
“Silverwing followed just ahead Twilight and the others. Soon they were once again in Luna’s bedroom. Her wounds were scabbed but not healing and the stitches holding them closed seemed to be having no effect, but at least her heart beat was stable and no new blood was gushing from the wounds. Still she would not wake. Dr. G glanced at Luna and whispered.
“Please wake up. Or at least give me a sign.” Almost as though she heard him Luna shifted but her eyes would not open.
“She’s in a coma Dr. G. the poison from what Nurse Joy tells me seems to be keeping her unconscious and won’t let her wounds heal.” Celestia offered. Dr. G looked down.
“I didn’t do this but why do I feel like this is my fault?” He asked. Oddly enough Silverwing who had been silent since he entered spoke.
“Just look at her Doc! Really look at her! Look at those stitches, those signs of magic all over her body. The wounds aren’t your doing. In fact you and Celestia are probably the only thing that’s keeping our Princess of the Night alive! If you keep blaming yourself you will never be able to go to Tartarus and face Mephistopheles, Evil himself, to save her life!” Silverwing said emphatically.
“You know, Dr. G. he’s right.” Twilight affirmed.
“Indeed Doctor, my sister and I on her behalf need you to help bring her back to us.” Celestia said. Dr. G. looked down at the ground where a piece of broken arrow lay the hollow tube shifting on the stone floor.
“Hold on to that thought, I think I found something!” Dr. G said picking up the broken and bloody arrow.
“Look at this arrow it’s hollow but there’s a note inside!” Dr. G. said as he fished it out with his magic.
“See, Doc you can do this!” Silverwing said patting him on the back.
“Alright Princess Celestia I swear on my life by the love in my soul for Luna that I will do whatever it takes to save her!” Dr. G said clutching the note and Luna’s right hoof. Luna once again shifted as though she heard him.
“Not so fast Doctor!” Twilight added.
“Yeow Pardner! You ain’t goin’ nowhere!” Applejack added.
“Uh Huh, this party’s for all of us!” Pinkie interjected.
“As the element of generosity I say it’s a job for seven!” Rarity continued.
“Oh yes if that’s ok that we come along.” Fluttershy whispered.
“You’re stuck with us now!” Rainbow added definitively.
“But−.” Dr. G began.
“− No buts Dr. G the road ahead is a dangerous one. I order you to bring these brave ponies with you.” Celestia said authoritatively.
“But it is way too dangerous and who will take care of Luna while I’m gone? She needs more than just one medical professional.” Dr. G protested.
“I will take up the challenge, if you don’t mind Princess Celestia.” Silverwing offered.
“Well Dr. Castlehoof that ends your concerns, so rest up as best as you can. Tomorrow you and these brave six will embark on the most important journey of your lives. Your commitment will be tested; Your Loyalty, Courage, Honesty, Every element will be faced with a trial and tribulation. Remember, Mephistopheles is the master of deception, Stick together and his tricks won’t stand a chance to you seven. Understood?” Celestia asked royally.
“Yes.” All seven replied.
“Excellent, now get some sleep, and may friendship be always at your side.” Celestia finished.
“Princes may I stay by her side just a little while longer.” Dr. G. asked almost like a foal.
“Yes, I guess I owe you this concession. I am sorry I was wrong about you Doctor. Sleep well.”
“Good Night Your Highness.” Dr. G replied.
Twilight headed off to bed she and Fluttershy and the others had a long journey ahead of them. Everyone said goodnight but a thought lingered in Twilight’s mind: Would she and Fluttershy make it through this? And with that thought she tried to get some sleep. Just in case she held Fluttershy extra tight that night. “I love you.” she whispered.
*Author’s Notes*: Finally Typed this out! Man it feels good to back writing! Please review comment, tell me your likes and dislikes. More references and chapters coming soon! Yes Silverwing is borrowed with permission from my good friend Silverwing Strong. I figured no one else would be better to save the day! I hope you all are liking my story and enjoying watching me grow as I write. New chapter coming soon!