The Ranger’s Journey
Prologue
A tall, fair skinned man with shoulder length jet black hair and light green eyes sat with a long black cane in his hands. The man looked like he was in his mid twenties. The top of the cane was a silver metal and was in the shape of a raven’s head. The man sat patiently as the door opened and a tall woman with fair skin and a flowing celestial hair and a pair of white wings were sprouting out of her back. A golden crown was set on top of her head and her wings matched her flowing white dress.
The woman stood at seven feet tall and walked up to the man with a warm smile on her face. The man stood up with the cane steadying his body. The two walked down the marble stone corridor until they got to a set of white doors with golden handles. The two entered and the woman sat behind a massive wooden desk.
“Thank you for seeing me on such short notice Princess Celestia.” The man said as he sat down across from the desk.
“Oh please, enough with the formalities Crow. You’re among friends.” She said with a chuckle. “How did the mission go?” The man let out a sigh and looked at the Princess with a blank expression on his face.
“That’s why I’m here. There’s been a....complication.” He said as he scratched the back of his neck.
“What complication?” The Princess asked in a serious tone. The man put his hand inside his coat pocket and pulled out a photo of a young fair skinned boy with messy shoulder length crimson red hair and matching red eyes. “Who is this?”
“That is Orion Comet’s son, Crimson Storm” He said in a low tone. Celestia’s eyes shrank as she made the connection.
“Oh....I see.” She said as she handed the picture back to the man. “What does he have to do with ‘it?’” She asked.
“It....jumped him.” He said in a low tone. The Princess’s eyes shrank at the news and her mind raced as countless thoughts of pain, death and destruction raced through her mind.
“What?” Celestia’s eyes shrank and the color drained from her face. “Did you-”
“I managed to seal it before it took possession.” He said with a sigh. The Princess let out a sigh of relief at the news. “I....I want to take him under my wing at the Academy.” Celestia’s jaw fell open at the news. “I know the risks Celestia, but-”
“But nothing! You’d be putting everyone in danger!”
“It would be more dangerous to let him wander the world alone and unsupervised.” He said in a stern tone. “He will be sheltered, clothed, fed and he’ll learn to control his magic.”
“It’s a big risk Crow.” She said as she rolled the idea around in her head.
“He’s only eight years old and he’s all alone in the world.” The man said in a low tone. “I owe it to Orion as a comrade and a friend to look after him.” Celestia let out a sigh and scratched her chin. “He will be under my watchful eye and he’ll be protected by the Academy.”
“I think that he should decide.” Celestia said in a flat tone.
“I think that’s fair.” He said with a nod as he stood up. “I will go fetch him for you.” The man got to his feet and steadied himself on his cane.
“If I may ask, why are you walking with a cane?” The man let out a sigh and lifted up his right ant leg to reveal a heavily scarred leg. The skin looked as though it was severely burned and the skin was almost like paper. The Princess let out a gasp at the sight.
“No good deed goes unpunished your majesty.” Crow said in a low tone. “Surely you know that better than anyone.” He said as he walked towards the door. He walked over to a golden armored man who was holding a spear and had long blue hair. “Excuse me, sir guard.” He said as he waved his hand, cathcing the man's attention.
“How can I help you Professor Crow?” He asked with a smile. Crow gazed at the man and scratched his chin.
“You look familiar, have we met?” He asked as he examined the guard.
“I was one of the soldiers the Princess sent along with you.” He said in a flat tone.
“Ah yes! Private Shining Armor correct?” The man nodded. “How are you feeling son?”
“Better, all things considering.” He said with a gulp.
“That’s to be expected after what you’ve seen.” He said in a flat tone. “Tell me, have you seen a young boy with dark red hair wearing a dark hood around?” The guard then narrowed his eyes.
“You mean that thing you brought back?” Crow scowled at the man.
“He’s not a thing. Just a boy who needs guidance.” He said in a rough tone. The guard looked at him and scoffed. “If you don’t know where he is then just say you don’t. I’m busy and I hate having my time wasted.” Crow said in a serious tone. The guard grunted and stared at the man.
“Last time I saw him, he was in the gardens.” He said in a flat tone.
“Thank you.” He said in a cold tone. “As you were Private.” Crow said as he started to walk away from the guard with a less than amused look on his face. Shining stood at attention as the Sergeant approached him.
“Sir!”
“At ease private.” He said with a smile. “I just ran into your sister, very charming girl.” He said as he scratched the back of his head.
“That’s Twily.” He said as he shook his head with a smile. “Where did you see her?”
“I believe she was just going into the garden maze. Why?” Shining’s eyes shrank as he heard the words.
“Sir, please excuse me. I have to go!” The man said as he broke into a run towards the gardens. The officer shrugged and continued to walk down the marble hallway.
A young boy sat alone on a green wooden bench with a black hood covering his dark red hair. The boy was no more than eight years old and was donning a black sweatshirt and dark blue pants. He got to his feet and made his way through the hedge maze. Crimson kept his dark red eyes focused on the path ahead of him. He looked in surprise to see a young girl with indigo hair with a pink stripe running down the side kneeling near a tree in the center of the pathway.
Her bright purple eyes matched her dress and small shiny shoes. As he walked closer he saw that the little girl was crying. Crimson cocked an eyebrow and walked closer. The girl looked a year younger than him. “Um....are you okay?” He asked as he approached the girl.
“Smarty Pants is stuck!” She said as she pointed up to the tree. Crimson looked up to see a small doll stuck in the branches. Crimson rolled his eyes and looked down at the still sobbing girl.
“Wait here.” He said as he walked past the small girl. Crimson pulled himself up on the trunk of the tree and hoisted himself onto the branch. The boy crawled on the outstretched branch and reached forward with his hand. He tried to reach but his small arms were just out of reach.
As he strained, a magical red aura appeared around his hands and the doll started to lean towards him. The boy extended his arm further. He could feel his muscles straining and a the small amount of energy taxing him. The doll flew into his hands as he lost his grip and fell towards the ground. He landed with a loud thud on his back and groaned in pain. As he stood up the small girl raced towards him and wrapped him in a hug.
“Thankyouthankyouthankyou!” She said with tears of joy running down her face. The boy smiled as he gave her back the doll and rubbed his right shoulder. “You’re hurt!”
“I’ll be okay.” He said with a shrug. “What are you doing in the gardens?”
“I’m just waiting. I have to take a test to see if I get into this fancy school.” She said with a smile.
“Good luck.” He said with a nod.
“Thanks, my name is Twilight Sparkle. What’s yours?”
“I’m-”
“TWILIGHT! GET AWAY FROM HIM!” The two children looked over to see a tall man in golden armor running towards them.
“Hey Shiny, what are you-” she was cut off as the young man stepped in between them and drew his sword. Shining pointed the sharp end at the boy who fell onto his back and started to shake in fear. The small girl then started to lightly hit the man’s leg. “BBBFF! Don’t scare him!” She said as she frowned. “He saved Smarty Pants from that tree.” The guard looked at his sister who was holding the doll.
The guard looked at his little sister and back at the boy was close to pissing his pants as his eyes focused on the unsheathed sword. The guard then noticed a green eyed black crow perched in the branches staring at him with daggers in it’s eyes. Shining grunted sheathed the blade before turning around and kneeling down so his and the girl’s eyes met.
“Listen to me Twiley, I want you to stay away from him.” He said in a serious tone.
“Why?”
“He’s dangerous. Not just to you, but to everyone and everything around him.” He said as he glared back at the boy who had gotten to his feet and brushed himself off. Shining then turned back to his little sister and put his hands on her shoulders. “Please Twilight, for me?” He said in a begging tone. The girl looked down at the ground and moved the dirt around with her shoe. Twilight looked at her brother and then shifted her gaze to the boy.
“Well....okay, if it’ll make you happy BBBFF.” The guard let out a sigh of relief and smiled. “Can I just say goodbye? It would be kind of rude.”
“Make it quick.” He said as he narrowed his eyes on Crimson, who gulped as he felt the man’s gaze on him. “I have to get back to my patrol. I hope you do well on your test.” He said as he hugged the girl. Twilight smiled and returned the gesture before the man walked away. Crimson held his head in shame and started to walk away from the girl.
“Hey wait!” She said in a high pitched voice. Crimson turned around to see the girl walking up to him. “Walking away from someone who’s trying to talk to you is very rude you know.”
“Sorry, but you heard what’s his name.” He said as he pointed to the guard who was rounding the corner. “I really don’t feel like getting slashed by a sword.”
“Yeah, but I still want to thank you for rescuing Smarty Pants.” She said with a smile. The boy rolled his eyes and stood still. Before Crimson could react, the girl leaned forward and planted a small kiss on his cheek. The boy’s face went as red as his hair and gulped. The girl’s face was also turning a shade of red as she smiled. “So.....thanks.” She said with a small smile.
“N-no problem.” He said with a gulp.
“C’mon Twilight. It’s time to go.” The guard yelled.
“I’ll be right there BBBFF.” She said before running off towards her brother. Crimson stood frozen as his right eye twitched at what just happened.
“Aren’t you the little charmer?” Crimson spun around and saw the black crow fly up to him and change into the tall cane carrying man. “Already taking after your father I see.”
“Uncle! It wasn’t like that!” He said in an annoyed tone. The man stood there with a smug smile plastered across his face. “ I just......she was the one who......UGH!” He said in annoyance.
“I’m just kidding.” He said as he rubbed the boy’s messy head of hair. “I was actually looking for you, there’s someone I want you to meet.” He said as he put a hand on Crimson’s shoulder. The red hair’d child felt a small tingling sensation and saw a flash of green light. Crimson opened his eyes to see a large circular room with hundreds of books and documents.
“Hello there.” An angelic voice said from behind the two men. Crimson spun around to see a tall and beautiful woman sitting behind a desk with a warm smile spread across her face. Crimson had seen pictures of her in magazines and posters. The boy’s heart started to beat rapidly as he made the connection and realized he was standing before THE Princess Celestia of Equestria. “You must be Crimson Storm. Crow has told me quite a bit about you.” She said with a warm smile.
Crimson immediately bowed his head in respect to the goddess and tried to calm himself. “Are you alright?” She asked.
“He’s just nervous Tia. What do you expect?” Crow said with a smile. The red hair’d child looked up at the man in shock at how he addressed the Princess so casually.
“I suppose you’re right.” She said with a small chuckle. “Come sit down we have something to discuss.” She said as she looked at the two seats in front of the desk. Crimson gulped and made his way towards the seats and sat down next to his uncle. “First off I want to give you my condolences Crimson.” The child adverted his deep red eyes from the goddess. “I know that losing a family member is never easy especially at your age.” The Princess said in a low tone. “I knew your father and mother. They were brave warriors and will be remembered. You have my word.”
“Ahem!” The green eyed man gave a small cough signaling for the Princess to move on.
“Now, there is something I wish to ask you if you’ll let me.” Celestia said as she poured them each a cup of tea.
“What is it your highness?”
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” Crimson gulped as he took the fine ceramic cup in his hands. He had been asked that question several times by teachers in school and by some other kids. He always gave them the same answer, ‘I want to be just like my parents.’ The words tore at his heart as he remembered their smiling faces.
“I....I don’t know.” He said in a low tone. “I..I always said I wanted to be like my dad, but after.....” He said as he fought back the tears. “I just don’t know. I’m just a kid after all.” Celestia let out a sigh and gave an understanding nod.
“That’s very smart of you to say Crimson. It takes true courage for one to speak their mind.” She said as she gave him a warm smile. “There’s a choice that you need to make.” She said, her tone changing to a more serious one. “You can either stay here in Canterlot where you will find a new family and friends.” Crimson’s eyes shrank at the words. “Or, your Uncle Crow has agreed to look after you at his school.” The boy looked at the man in amazement.
“I wanted you to make the choice.” Crow said with a smile. Crimson sank back into his chair and weighed his options. “There’s no rush, take your time.” Crow said as he put a hand on his nephew’s shoulder. The red hair’d boy thought hard on the subject. The entire room was dead quiet for five whole minutes, it may has well been five hours. At the end of the fifth minute Crimson let out a sigh and got to his feet.
“Can I bring some stuff with me to the Academy?” He asked. Crow grinned ear to ear in delight at the decision.
“Of course. We can go pick them up after I fill out some paperwork for the Princess.” Crow said with a warm smile on his face. Celestia smiled and handed him a few pieces of paper. Crow quickly scribbled his name on a few lines and clicked the pen shut.
“Splendid. Now if you two would excuse me, I have some official business to attend to.” She said as she stood up. “Best of luck to you both in the future.” She said before teleporting in a flash of white light. The two boys looked at one another and shrugged. The two walked out of the meeting room and into the marble hallways of the Castle.
“I know you’re going to love it at the academy Crimson. All the books your eyes can read.” Crow said with a smile. Crimson gave him a weak grin and nodded. “Tell me son. Do you really want to be a warrior?” The red hair’d boy took a moment to gather his thoughts and let out a sigh.
“Yes.” As he answered the two felt a massive vibration coming from outside the city. Crimson looked up and saw what appeared to be an explosion of rainbows. The two then heard a loud roar coming from the far side of the castle. The two boys looked in astonishment as a giant purple dragon’s head shot through the ceiling and breathed a small amount of green flames. Crimson looked up at the older man and frowned.
“Uncle, did you pull a prank on the Princess?” He asked as he pointed at the dragon.
“No ma boy. This time, it wasn’t me.” Crimson then felt a small burning sensation on his back and started to itch it. “Something wrong?”
“My back, it feels weird.” He said as he grunted.
“Let me see what the problem is.” Crow said as he looked down the back of the boy’s shirt. His eyes widened and smiled.
“Is something there?” Crimson asked.
“Yes.”
“Well, get it off!” Crimson ordered.
“I doubt my magic can remove a Cutie Mark.” The boy’s eyes shrank and a large smile spread across his face.
“REALLY? WHAT IS IT?” He asked in excitement.
“You can see for yourself once we get to the house.” Crow said with a smile. Crimson started running ahead of the older man with a smile on his face. As the small boy ran forward Crow had a small tear in his eye as he smiled.
Comet, Rose. Your boy reminds me of the two of you so much. Crow said as he wiped the tear from his eye. I have no doubt in my mind that he will become strong. He thought as he continued walking down the cobble stone road with a smile on his face.