//------------------------------// // Book 1: Chapter 8 // Story: Kinetics // by Habanc //------------------------------// Roll “I am your friend, and no offense, but sometimes I have the feeling you can't get the idea through that thick skull of yours.” Rays of sunlight shone through the canopy of leaves, specs of dust and pollen in the air visible as they floated lazily on the morning breeze. Birds chirped to one another, flapping in brief bursts from one branch to the next. The sun had just arisen, and the Domelle was awake and alive. Some others, however, were not. Sitting before the ashes of the campfire, Luna sagged forward, eyelids drooping. Her sleep had been robbed by a nightmare, then kept awake by fears and regrets. After hours of tossing and turning, she had admitted defeat and walked out to the open air and the sights of the midnight sky. The stars, whether hers or not, were a sense of comfort to her. The moon, on the other hoof, was a pain. The damn hunk of dusty rock was as stubborn as a mule, the feeling of hauling it up to the horizon was like pulling an anvil through a lake of molasses. The stars were easy, the most gentle of whispers could bring them into the sky. When clouds cooperated, when the night was clear, the sight of thousands upon thousands of tiny blips of light reminded her that she was not alone. She created each star in Equestria with a purpose and a pony behind it. She memorized each one, and who it was for, to the point where not even Nightmare Moon could tarnish her recollection. She had been watching them for so long that even now, in a land where the stars were scrambled in new ways, she felt a wash of serenity, a cool breeze when her temper flared or her spirits dropped. Eyes perking up to a half-charred stick on the outskirts of the ashes, Luna regarded it for a moment, curious. Then, with a deep breath, she channeled all her energy to reach out and grasp it. Immediately she found it difficult to concentrate, her acuity fogged as her grasp on magic faltered. Yet, for half a moment, she saw an indigo aura envelop around the twig, hoisting it off the air. Hope bursting wide, her determination soared as she fought and clawed to hold onto the thin wisps and strands of magic she controlled. At the apex of her concentration, she felt bold enough to go further. At a snail's pace, the stick inched closer, her aura flickering and dimming but never extinguished. Her minuscule magic kept flowing, the ebb and flow of energy carefully maintained through centuries of mental discipline. Although she could feel a bead of sweat rolling down her jawline, she wasn't about to give up now. Nearly halfway there, she denied any option of defeat. This was for dignity, something she valued above nearly anything else. She was going to succeed, regardless of- “Good morning!” Ears perking up, her concentration faltered and the entire balance act imploded. Losing control on her magic, the aura died, the stick fell, and the strain caught up to her like a slingshot, excruciating shocks of pain running from horn to tail. Grunting, Luna let her head fall, her mane covering her face, hooves rubbing her temples. “Oh, Luna, are you alright?” “Does it look like I'm alright?!” Luna snapped, rising up and clearing the hair from her eyes. Her lungs heaved for air as she let snorts rush through her nose. She was so close, and then this moronic pony had to interrupt and give her this horrid headache and- Oh, it's Twilight. “I- umm, n-nevermind...” the unicorn stammered, shock in her wide open eyes. She was frozen in mid-step, no less than a few paces away. As the milliseconds ticked by, as Luna stood there, caught between the heat of anger and the chill of guilt, the other mare's eyes slid to the ground. She muttered quietly and quickly, “I'll just come back later.” Luna willed her mouth to apologize, but nothing came out. Guilt had completely won, and it seemed as if it froze the very words in her throat, sitting there like a lump. Twilight turned around and trotted back to the tent, slipping inside. She let herself stand there for a moment, chills of regret running down her spine. I...I didn't know it was her, she thought, as if thoughts could be heard. I wouldn't have said anything- no, I shouldn't have said anything. Luna drooped her head once more and sat back down. Great. I'm exhausted from a night without sleep, and now... This. She closed her eyes, unable to decide which she wanted to go away first; was it the sharp pain in her head or the gnawing of regret? With a sigh, she relegated herself to neither, thinking it to be some sort of belated karma. I should apologize. It would be the right thing to do, and hopefully Twilight will feel a bit better – If I don't mess things up, that is. Confidence at a sullen low, she forced herself onto her hooves. Old memories told that moping in self-pity was dangerous, and new remedies offered by Celestia had proven to be effective. Swimming had quickly become a favorite of hers in modern Canterlot, often taking advantage of a private pool whenever the world got her down. Unfortunately, there were no ponds or rivers nearby, and with the possibility of rogues deeper in the forest, venturing off on her own to find one wasn't a safe option either. A quick walk would be nice. Heading towards the exit of camp, Luna walked out towards where she could only assume would lead out to the path. She remembered where they cut in from the previous night; she could find her way back. Unfortunately, a metallic hoof stopped her. “I am sorry, Ambassador, but you may not leave the campsite.” She turned to look at him, one of the two pegasi sent as an escort. He wasn't much older than Donevyn, his cheeks still vibrant and untainted by age or battle-experience, no scars nor wrinkles. So this is how Hurras protects its diplomats? By sending them with two green recruits? “And why is that? I am only leaving to go on a short walk, I assure you.” “I understand, but unfortunately that is not a risk we can take.” “But I am only going to go a few hundred paces. Surely you could even see me from such a distance?” “Perhaps, but once again, that is not a risk we can take. The forest is too unpredictable at the moment, and we must be on our guard for anything.” “I see.” Nodding, Luna didn't protest any further. It was sensible, as much as she disliked his verdict. She turned around, her frustration swelling quickly, about to explode violently if she didn't do something. This morning was a disaster. No sleep, exhaustion, hurt pride, a splitting headache, an iceberg of guilt nestled in her gut, and now nothing to do to relieve any of it. Could it get any worse? Stop it. Luna scolded herself as she walked back to her spot by the extinguished campfire. Self-pity gets you nowhere. Stop grumbling over your woes and do something about them. Sitting down, she traced her hoof in the dirt, letting her mind numb away as her attention fixated on the random squiggles and lines she drew. “Moongui- Luna,” Sky called as she trotted towards her, “Could you lend me a hoof with something?” Looking up, Luna answered with a sigh, “I suppose.” She rose slowly from the ground, flexing each leg as if she had been there for hours. “May I ask why my aid is required?” “Donevyn just woke up.” Sky rolled her eyes, punctuating the sentence with a snort. “Seriously, I think that guy thinks he can just run the place and everypony will just fall in line behind him.” Letting the heat disperse with a deep breath, she continued on, “Anyway, he told me to take his tent down. It's kinda big and some of the ropes are tough to get at on my own, so I need another set of hooves. I tried asking Twilight but she seemed distracted and quiet so I eventually left her alone.” “She was?” Luna asked, the knot of guilt tightening its grip in her chest. “Yeah,” Sky said as she nodded. “Weird of her, if you ask me. I mean, I've only met Starpaint- er, Twilight, a few days ago, so maybe it's just me. But even still, she was livelier and chatty last night. Do you know what's wrong? Is she not a morning pony or something?” “I'm nearly certain she is not, but unfortunately that isn't the reason for her refrained disposition.” Shrugging her shoulders, Luna's words came out almost apologetically, “I- I was in a bad mood, I had not slept the entire night, and she interrupted me in the middle of a spell. I did not know it was her at first, so I got angry and yelled at her. By... By the time I could come up with an apology she was already gone.” “Oh.” Sky shuffled her hooves. “You might want to apologize.” “I know,” Luna agreed with a sigh. “Do you know where she is?” “Last I saw, she was packing up our own tent.” The young mare glanced over to where it was, but now nothing remained except for an anomaly in the grass, where it had been flattened and laid upon. “But now, I'm not sure. She's probably helping Donevyn with whatever chores he's doing, if any.” “Right. Well, perhaps I may be able to find a moment with her as we continue traveling.” Luna turned to the other tent remaining. “In the meantime, let's get this taken care of.” -~- The sword slung over her back was beginning to annoy Luna. It jostled and jumped as she trotted, and the strap didn't quite fit. She had almost forgotten it, resting against the tree she had set it down at the night before. It felt odd, wielding a physical blade. She had tried holding it in her mouth earlier, and much to her displeasure, found it unbalanced and difficult to maneuver. Then again, centuries of summoning a magical sword of moonlight did nothing to help her efficacy with a plain one made of iron. Without her magic, at least. “It is nearly midday.” Luna said quietly. “She has stayed by Donevyn's side since we left, and I have not been able to get a word in edgewise.” “No? Why not?” Sky had been her traveling companion for much of the morning, sticking with her as the group made their way deeper into the Domelle. The envoy went first, followed by Donevyn and Twilight, with Sky and Luna finding themselves in the rear. If she were honest, Luna couldn't help but admit that the young acolyte was not as bad as she first appeared. Her lighthearted, enthusiastic attitude and rather witty jokes forced out more than a few smiles from the somber alicorn as they traveled, providing a much-needed distraction. “Did you not hear me? She has been with Donevyn throughout the entire morning.” “Yeah, I got that. So what's stopping you from going up there and asking to talk with her?” Sky shrugged off her hood and looked at Luna. “I don't feel comfortable interrupting them like that. It is impolite,” Luna muttered. “I- I can wait until an opportunity arises.” “So, you're not even trying?” “I said no such thing!” Luna hissed. Dropping her voice level, she continued, “I do not want to make things worse by allowing my clumsy tongue to deteriorate the situation. Yet, for what I lack in speech, I can make up with patience. I shall simply wait until Twilight is alone.” Sky looked at her for a moment, neither impressed nor convinced. “Yeah, okay, let's see how far that gets you.” Shaking her head and mussing her mane, she said, “You owe me one.” “What do you mean?” Luna's words did not reach her ears, as the other mare had already cantered up to Donevyn, sliding between him and Twilight. “Hey there, pretty boy.” Sky flashed him a smile and winked. “So, I was wondering, are all squires pretty muscular or are your flanks just exceptionally toned?” Twilight, who happened to be drinking from her canteen at the moment, coughed and sputtered, spilling water on herself as her grip slipped. She pounded a hoof on her chest as she hobbled along on three legs. “I- uh...” “I mean a handsome face is a must, but muscles are a nice bonus,” Sky continued on. “I like my stallions big everywhere, if you know what I mean.” Donevyn looked at her with wide eyes and flushed cheeks, mouth agape as he breathed a feeble “huh?”, with Twilight's coughing growing louder. She strayed to the edge of the path, staying as far away from the pair as possible. “The air shrine is sooo boring sometimes,” Sky complained, “They never let me have any fun. So, how about you and I find a-” stopping mid-sentence, she mocked revelation and spun her head over to Twilight. “Oh my! I am so sorry Twilight, I didn't see you there! Hey, you don't look so good. Am- am I making you feel uncomfortable?” “Umm... M-maybe a bit,” Twilight murmured as she fumbled over her words. Spotted Sky sighed apologetically. “Well, once again, I'm so sorry. I'll just go and find Donevyn when he's alone.” Twilight shook her head. “Uh, no, that... that's okay. I don't want to get in the way of...” She trailed off, at a loss of what to say. Eventually, she gave an awkward shrug and said, “Y- your thing or whatever. I'll go.” “Are you sure?” Sky asked. “I'd hate to impose-” “No, no, no,” Twilight shook her head almost as quickly as the words coming out of her mouth, adding in an awkward chuckle. “That- that is completely fine because I know ponies have urges and desires and I'd hate to get in the way of that because it's not my business and it's completely natural and-” Catching herself, her cheeks tinged. “...I'll go. Yeah, I'll go.” As Twilight let her pace fall and retreated back to the end of the column, Sky exhaled, her cheeks puffing out like a squirrel. “Finally! Moonguider owes me big time. At least now she can apologize to Twilight.” A tense silence fell over the pair, dirt flashing by their hooves and greenery blurring in their peripherals as the time slugged by. Donevyn coughed and asked tentatively, “So are we still...?” “No,” Sky answered flatly. “O-okay good, because I really didn't want to either. Well, I-I would, but not-” The acolyte sighed. “You should just quit while you're ahead.” “Oh, right.” Donevyn remained quiet for a moment. “By the way, did you mean what you said about my flanks?” Clamping her mouth shut and keeping her gaze ahead, Sky rolled her eyes and grinned, electing to remain silent. -~- Twilight was so close, and yet so far away. As they trotted, not even five feet away from each other, neither one said a word. Luna could not for the eternal life of hers figure out how to approach this. A formal apology was unheard of in her prime, much less a personal one. Lacking experience and confidence, it felt like she had a mountain before her, one that rose so far above the clouds she could not see the summit. You're overreacting, she told herself. She'll understand. Besides, you really didn't do anything that wrong. This is just silly. But, as much as her rationalizing made sense, she couldn't shake the anxiety that managed to seep into her state of mind. Conversing informally was always a large problem area, and it bred a level of uncertainty that defied the best logic. Logic held other purposes, however. For instance, it proved that not apologizing would definitely not help build the cohesion and trust needed to get out of Anarkhos. It also made sense that the longer she let it stew and go untreated, the more difficult repairing this minor offense would become. It seemed too simple, even. Say you're sorry, explain what happened, and promise to be more careful. With even the smallest bit of luck, you should be fine. It shouldn't take more than a minute. “Twilight,” Luna started slowly, “can I talk to you for a moment?” The unicorn in question looked to her, studying the other mare for a few seconds. “Of course.” “I want to apologize for my harsh words this morning. It was wrong and childish of me, and I hope you can forgive me for it.” She frowned. “I know it is a poor excuse, but I wasn't able to sleep last night and you caught me in an volatile mood.” “It's fine,” Twilight replied, “I put the pieces together soon after I left.” “You did?” Luna's eyes perked up at that. “It was obvious, wasn't it? What can turn a normally super-composed pony into an irritable, red-eyed, exhausted one? Since you've been coping with stress well enough so far, and that I doubt you're addicted to opiates,” she smiled faintly at that, “deduction pointed towards acute sleep deprivation.” “Oh.” To say Luna wasn't surprised would be a lie. She had underestimated the pony beside her, the notion that she was indeed Celestia's prized protégé returning to her in a flash. Studying under the unequivocal master of reason would be certain to have a bleeding effect. “That was rather... insightful of you.” It felt as if she had been dragged back to the ground with meteoric speed, being reminded for the first time in Anarkhos just who exactly Twilight Sparkle was. True, her thoughts and actions under pressure left something to be desired, but that came with experience as much as natural aptitude. But when she had time, when her composure wasn't marred by adrenaline or panic, there remained few mental conundrums that she could not figure out. Steeled logic and sprinkles of creativity hammered solutions out of problems, and a naturally intelligent and superbly bright mind brought about a depth of information and ideas to cover all angles. The alicorn felt even so bold as to say her undoubted magical prowess came second to her intellect. She felt ashamed, to be so wrapped in her own world, trying to figure out their problems, that she could forget the mental dynamo by her side. “Are you still mad at me?” Luna asked gingerly, her upright tone gone with nothing to hold back her feelings. “Still mad?” Twilight shook her head. “I was never angry with you to begin with. Mostly shocked and confused, to be honest. If you're not in a friendly mood, at least you're always polite. But to be shouted at like that sent me reeling, and so once I got back to the tent I decided to lie low and let you cool off and for awhile.” “That was quite thoughtful of you, Twilight,” Luna responded, humbled. “I must thank you for being the better pony when I faltered.” The unicorn scoffed, adding in an unbelieving, “Me? No, I just understood when you needed some space.” She paused for a moment, before continuing, “Do you remember when we went to the Tempestry's annual feast?” “Yes.” Luna nodded. “Well, I remember telling you that there are times when you should stop being a princess and instead act more like any normal pony.” Twilight smiled. “Now would be one of them. I really don't care whether I was more composed than you earlier today, this isn't a competition. I am your friend, and no offense, but sometimes I have the feeling you can't get the idea through that thick skull of yours.” Luna chuckled. “Thank you, Twilight. Thank you for putting up with me and constantly reminding me, because your words are true. Sometimes I become too caught up in both the future and the past to remember the present.” “Really? I never noticed.” “No? That's odd, I would expect a pony of your analytical and observational skills to pick up-” “That was sarcasm, Luna.” “Well now, is that so?” Luna turned to look at her, unable to hide a smirk. “I open my heart and gratitude to you, Twilight, and you return the favor by poking fun at me? I could have you imprisoned at home for half of that.” “You don't scare me,” Twilight retorted with a grin. She turned gears, saying softly, “Relax, Luna, I was only joking. I know how easy it is to fumble over your mistakes, I do it too. But right now, the best thing we can do is work together and trust each other.” “Right,” Luna agreed with the nod of her head. “So, how about we put this morning behind us and forget it ever happened, alright?” Luna smiled. “Of course.” -~- “I must find time to visit Ponyville sometime, Twilight. Your stories of all your friends, and I must confess, Pinkie Pie in particular, have piqued my interest.” Luna laughed. “Although, I should apologize to Fluttershy as well. My actions on Nightmare Night were a touch outlandish, were they not?” “That might be a start,” Twilight said as she smiled. Morning had since faded as the sun reached its zenith, and yet the two kept chatting as the solar orb began its descent in the west. Stories were exchanged, observations passed back and forth, and musings were brought to light. Twilight noticed Donevyn and Sky occasionally casting glances back at them, but she paid the two no heed. She felt awkward at even the notion of talking to them. But for the most part, she forgot all about them. It was nice to see Luna finally fall in a state where she was relaxed and amiable, as talkative as the next pony. Words flowed like the wind over hilltops, not minced and measured, about to be shipped off to the next monarch. It was refreshing, to say the least, after the past week with Luna and many years with Celestia. Although she loved and adored her mentor, even there lied a problem that left the unicorn wanting. As eloquent and flawless as the sun goddess' speech was, over time Twilight could tell it was unnatural. It was the most beautiful, pristine visage anypony could find, but there were still moments where she realized the alicorn was holding back. That might've been why she had forged such quickfire bonds with her friends, as they were finally ponies who she knew would speak their minds open and freely, more or less. The stifling plasticity of royal demeanor, a subtle undercurrent that formed a stain once discovered, had grown to be a constant irritant, one she admittedly did not miss while in Ponyville. After a few days in Anarkhos, she had begun to notice it once again in Luna, and as much as she tried to ignore it, it glared at her like a smudge in an otherwise pleasant painting. After her attempt to “correct” Luna at the Tempestry's annual feast, it only stood out that much more. So now, to finally watch and marvel as the facade fell, she felt she could breathe deeply again. There was something comforting about the midnight alicorn, something mortal. Whereas her sister was perched atop a pedestal far in the clouds, Luna seemed to prefer life on the ground. Celestia was the image of wisdom, power, might, and divinity, her mistakes few and her judgements fair. She exuded a presence about her that reeked of majesty and composure that seemed to crush anypony around into a bow. Under the bright beams of the sun, everypony wilted. Alicorns were revered ponies, made out to be the pinnacle of ponykind. And yet, Luna was the anomaly, flawed and emotional like the rest. To Twilight, this was what interested her the most. She let her feelings get the best of her, her curiosity went unchecked by logic, and her movements were sometimes unsure and cautious. It was true, Alicorns were actually just like any other pony, susceptible to the ravages of life. However, their unimaginable lifespan gave them time to adjust, to compensate, and to thrive. And yet, it seemed as if Luna had tossed it all to the wind. “Twilight, are you alright?” Luna asked. Her face bore signs of worry and wonder, her hooves carrying her closer. “Huh? What?” Twilight shook her head, snapping from her reverie. “Oh, sorry, I was just thinking.” “Thinking? About what?” the alicorn asked as her expression evaporated. Twilight shrugged. “Oh, nothing in particular.” “Ah.” Luna let the subject drop, an unsettling silence falling between the two as they continued their half-trotting pace. Travel in the morning was more upbeat, a strict trot from departure until noon. But, as the day wore on and their quick lunch settled in the stomachs, their speed declined until they were traveling in limbo of a slow trot and speedwalking. “So, is it just me, or is it darker here?” Twilight asked, looking at the path as it became wedged in between two steep inclines, hills than ran up for as far as the eye could see, their range rapidly contained by tree trunks that grew in close proximity from one another. Aside from a clearing ahead, the picture around them was a mesh of bark and grass, along with small dashes of other undergrowth. “I would think you are correct,” Luna replied. “The canopy here is too thick for much light to get through. Certainly not like this morning, where the trees were more spread out.” “See, I thought so. And... Hey, do you hear something rumbling?” Twilight looked around, eyes scanning the horizon. “I am not sure- yes, you are right!” Luna's eyes widened. “What could be causing-” But her speech dropped as a cascade of rolling logs throttled out from the clearing and decimated the group's front guard. Their cries were mangled as badly as their bodies, crumbling from loud screams to gurgles, barely audible beneath the mass of wood. The bent, twisted metal and flesh of the Hurrassian guards were visible amongst the crude barrier of timber, blocking their way forward. With bloodcurdling screams, ponies charged from down the hills on either side, weapons bared and a murderous glint in their eyes. They wore rags coupled with pieces of actual clothing, presumably from their victims. Some even had pieces of armor, the odd helmet here or chainmail there. A quick guess placed their numbers at a dozen or more. With spears, spiked hooves, and crossbows, Twilight realized that these were not the same bandits as those they had met before. Heart threatening to reduce her ribcage to dust, Twilight tried to jump back. Instead, she was blocked by another, and whirled around to find it was Luna. “Stand ready, Sparkle!” The world burst into mayhem as the rogues jumped into the pathway, cutting her and Luna off from Sky and Donevyn. Luna charged forward, pulling her sword out awkwardly with her teeth and met an advancing stallion halfway. Despite her uncomfortable position, she still proved her worth, parrying a spear thrust and returning with a vicious chop that bit deep into her opponent's shoulder. As he howled in pain, she leveled another strike that left his head attached by tatters. Glancing around from the sound of advancing hoofsteps, Twilight witnessed just in time as a mare came crashing down on her, a metallic hoof landing just a glancing blow on her cheek. Twilight stumbled and fell, unexperienced levels of pain shooting out from her face. The mare grinned as she pulled out a dagger, advancing on her downed position. “Twilight! Your spells!” Luna's voice rose above the chaos. The unicorn frowned. She didn't want to have to use this on another pony, but a quick analysis told her she had no choice. She had no clue what sort of damage the spell would do either, but held to the hope that it was non-lethal. Summoning a charge of raw power, she let a flicker of emotion do the rest, her horn glowing reddish-pink. The lance of battle magic hit the rebel mare like a brick wall, as the moment it connected with her, an explosion of energy plumed outwards and sent her flying back off the path. Even as she laid there, Twilight could tell she was dead. The mare's eyes were glazed up towards the sky, her limbs limp and splayed out as she rested on the forest floor. From where her magic had struck, a precise, acorn-sized hole rested in the middle of her chest, tainting the earth red. The frantic millisecond played again in her head. The minuscule scene of her magic shooting forward and claiming a life, the other mare with her shocked expression, her eyes opening wide as her jaw hung agape, continued to repeat over and over. The gruesome mental cinema left her paralyzed, unable to lift a hoof as her breathing grew labored and short. Regret and shock claimed her mind, her thoughts restricted to a cell of silence. Around her, the battle raged, and yet it did not process as anything warranting even an iota of attention. “Twilight!” Luna burst into her field of vision. Her short mane was a mess, dirt and twigs everywhere. “Get up! I know it is difficult-” Twilight's eyes were drawn from Luna to a moving figure in the background. Since the alicorn had arrived, her faculties started to reignite, but were still slow to act. The figure was coming down the hill, fast, from behind Luna. Trying to form words, Twilight lifted her hoof and pointed at the new pony. Ears perking up, Luna whipped around and saw the bandit as he arrived on the path. Scrambling among the dirt to pick up her sword, she rushed to meet him, going on the offensive with a jarring overhead slash. The stallion tried to block it with his spear, but it cracked at the initial attack, and then was smashed completely at Luna's redoubled attempt. Defenseless, he was made short work of with a quick thrust of the blade. Dropping her sword into the path again, Luna sprinted back over to Twilight, sinking her teeth into her mane and hauling her onto her hooves. The world seemed to spin as she stood upright, but she dug in and remained still. “They have mostly been favoring Donevyn, since they see him as the biggest threat. We have to provide assistance, which means you have to fight. Is that clear?” Twilight looked over to the stranded pair, Donevyn fighting with hoof and wing, giving back as good as he got on numerous fronts. Sky seemed to be trying to squeeze in shots with her crossbow, but the close quarters left her grappling and punching at whoever got close. “Y-yes,” Twilight muttered. “Good,” Luna replied, making her way forward. “Now, keep close, we don't want to get separated or-” Luna's words were cut short as she stumbled backwards. A hoof held up to her chest, Twilight saw that her face was eschewed into a grimace. “Honorless swine,” she muttered. Lowering her head down, she gripped something and snapped it in half, letting the fletched side of a crossbow bolt fall to the ground. “Luna!” Twilight exclaimed, “Are you alright?!” The alicorn barely seemed to notice her. “Hmm? Oh- oh yes, I'm fine. Just a little weak, that is all.” It was then that she collapsed into a heap on the ground, eyes rolling to the back of her head. “Luna?!” Twilight shouted. “Luna!” Her efforts to shake and rouse the mare were in vain, as she laid still on the dirt path. “Luna, come on, get up!” She prodded the downed alicorn in the chest. And yet she continued to be unresponsive, her body barely rising and falling as a small stub of the bolt remained in her chest, having gone clean through her laminar vest. Her actions were cut short as a bandit came galloping onto the path before her, dangerous hoof-spikes jutting out from his boots as he galloped towards her. Rising quickly to her hooves, Twilight caught him with her telekinesis. The lavender aura hoisted him from the ground as if he were weightless and insignificant. He kicked and flailed to no avail as she tightened her grip, threatening to choke the very life out of him. Then, with a flick of concentration, she sent him flying like a rag-doll. Anger and vengeance gurgled and frothed in her soul in equal measure, threatening to spill over. The fog from such a reaction rose to the top, shrouding her brain in a haze of fury and rage, poised to obliterate all that stood in her way. This was unacceptable, this was cruel. Robbing and scavenging from innocent travelers was a despicable crime she could not fathom, and from the twisted logic of this new world did her moral constraints vanish into thin air. She found it to be so easy. Charges were ignited before she could even think, and all she had to do was aim and release. To tip the scales even further, these rogues had no magical protection to speak of, and very little of the physical variety either. Those wearing chainmail did not go down in one hit, with the energy of her bolts being spread out around the body, but it only took a second or a third attack to finish them off. One mare even had the audacity to attempt to blindside her, the spear missing her by inches as Twilight jumped to the side. A counterattack from merely a foot away did not bode well for her assailant, because a simple charge of Twilight's horn left her several yards up the hill, skin charred and limbs mangled. Pulling the remaining ponies away from Donevyn and Sky took more effort, since she couldn't afford to miss. But her bolts flew true, ending in pops of energy and light as they met her opponents. Noticing their comrades piling up around them, two decided that their luck was running thin and tried to flee. Not so fast, Twilight thought to herself. Deep within the red haze of vengeance, tiny alarm bells started to ring, although soon suppressed. A mahogany mare in rags was sprinting up the hill beside an auburn stallion who wore a second-hand set of chainmail and boots. Twilight's first bolt flew towards the female rogue, who yelped as the battle magic hit her square in the back and crumpled. The second connected with the male just above the hock, making his retreat very difficult with only three legs. Crippled and in agony, he bellowed as he still tried to haul himself away, his cries cut short by another volley of magic. Panting with exertion, Twilight looked around to find nopony else with her, besides Donevyn and Sky. The latter was trotting to her, although not easily. Her robe was full of dirt and blood, some of it her own from the laceration above her eye. The eye itself was puffy and swollen shut, leaving the job of sight on the other, which worked constantly, expecting more bandits at every turn. A rustle in the undergrowth ensnared Twilight's attention, as a pony sprinted out into view. Her eyes picked up not a single detail about him besides the crossbow that was slung over his back. Fury exploded inside her chest, releasing a lava-like hate that held no purpose other than to destroy. Her horn was crackling and fizzing with energy before she could blink. Taking aim, she released her spell, yet this time kept feeding magic into it, transforming her usual bolts into a continuous beam. It scythed through ferns, bushes, and trees alike as it hungered for revenge. The terrified scream Sky gave out as she jumped back in fear did not register with Twilight, her full concentration and efforts used towards wiping the stallion off the face of Anarkhos. He had only scrambled for a dozen yards or so before Twilight caught up with him, the pinkish beam slicing through him as if he was made of little more than air. And yet, her magic still lingered for seconds more, feeding all the excess emotions into a lethal outlet. When it finally fizzed out, the summer forest was as quiet and desolate as a winter night. For a moment Twilight stood panting, eyes swathing the hills before her, trying to pick out any stragglers. As the seconds languished by, however, life and thought began to shine in her eyes. “Luna!” she cried, turning and galloping over towards the injured alicorn. Hooves skidding as she slid to a halt, Twilight bent down towards her and checked for signs of life. She could feel her heartbeat on her neck, and her breaths were shallow. Drawing a hoof down, the unicorn then examined her wound. A crossbow bolt's snapped shaft still protruded from her chest, blood slowly seeping into the white laminar vest she wore. “I really wouldn't take out the bolt, if I were you.” Walking over was Donevyn, his movements stiff, nose bloodied, and armor dented, but otherwise fit enough. “We should get her to a surgeon, they'll know how to remove it without hurting her more. Iezno is only an hour's trot away, so if we hurry we can arrive sooner.” Rummaging through his saddlebags, he pulled out a roll of cloth bandage, wrapping it around Luna's chest and doing his best to mitigate any blood loss. “I... I don't think she should bleed too much,” he explained as he worked, “since puncture wounds usually don't. At least, that's what Kazius tells me.” His hooves fumbled with the bandage as they began to tremble. “Anyway, it isn't worth the risk if we still have to travel for a while, right?” He cut the cloth with a flick of his wing and tied it tight. “Right,” Twilight agreed, standing up. Picking up Luna carefully with her telekinesis, she held her aloft as they picked their way around the blockage of logs. “Twilight, you lead,” Sky put in. “You're carrying her, so we'll follow you so you can't fall behind.” As the group began to pick up speed into a canter, she whispered to herself, “By The Winds, let her be safe.” -~- Iezno was once a small logging village, supplying timber to the lands around the forest. However, with the growing trade routes coming through its roads, and Tegra wood flooding into markets at a cheaper price, it soon shed its roots and became the main trading town in the Domelle. Merchants from Erhanos arrived as middlemen, hired blades from Hurras offered up their services to protect caravans coming in and out. It was nowhere near as large as Konik or Lobos, but still earned a spot on any map in Anarkhos. The sun was setting by the time Twilight, Donevyn, and Sky arrived. The buildings were unsurprisingly built of wood, dirt paths intersecting them. Exhausted, they hurried between townsfolk, asking a nearby guard for the closest surgeon. “He's right over there,” the mare replied, pointing to a two-story structure on the corner of two roads. She adjusted the metal helmet covering her head like a bowl. “His name is Viridian.” Taking off, Twilight gathered the last of her energy and galloped through the streets, weaving between ponies as she lofted Luna's unconscious form above them all. As she arrived, she pounded on the front door. She could hear a startled shuffling from inside, the sound of hooves clopping against wood flooring. The door opened seconds later, a diminutive, blue-green stallion standing in the doorframe. He was much smaller than Twilight even, hardly coming up to her muzzle. “Are you Viridian?” Twilight asked, breathing heavily. “I am,” he answered. His eyes perceptively moved from Twilight to the limp form of Luna, who was floating beside her. For a moment his eyes widened with disbelief, but soon reclaimed composure. “Please, come inside.” His voice held a discernible accent, throaty and harsh. Glancing back, Twilight noted Sky and Donevyn weaving their way through the crowd, the latter making eye contact and nodding. Turning back, Twilight entered the house. From what she could tell, the first floor was dedicated towards his work; vials lined the walls, sharp instruments and saws hung from hooks. There was a row of cots towards the back, and in the foreground remained a desk and a covered table. “Please, lay her down here,” Viridian requested as he motioned towards the table. She did so, allowing the brown-maned surgeon examine Luna. He quickly removed the bandage, and then took off her vest to reveal the full wound. The skin around the embedded shaft was turning a dark green, swollen and encrusted with blood. Within a foot of the puncture, all her veins bulged to where they were easily visible, like wires running across her chest. “Succubus' Snare,” Viridian muttered as Donevyn and Sky walked into the room. Twilight shrugged as they looked to her for answers, merely motioning for them to watch. “It's a poison made from the succubus plant, growing south of the Domelle. Some of the local raiders tip their bolts with it.” His hooves prodded various parts of the alicorn, testing her pulse and rotating her forelegs. “They use it because it's an incapacitator. It works very quickly, as long as the poison enters the body.” He looked up briefly to Twilight, “She went down quickly, yes?” At her nod, he continued, “They've learned that their crossbows aren't strong enough to puncture scale armor to the point where it will be lethal, usually not going farther in than an inch at most. Therefore, they target the best fighters with the poisoned bolts, making sure they're out of action before dealing with the rest.” “But Luna was hit in the middle of the battle, not in the beginning,” Twilight said. “Why wait so long?” “I wouldn't be able to say for sure,” he responded, eyes locked on his evaluation. “I'm not a fighter in the least. My best guess is the pony was a poor shot, more than one caravan guard has told me they find more bolts in the ground than they do in bodies.” “She'll be okay though, right?” Twilight asked. “We got her here very quickly, making sure to stop the blood loss with a bandage and leaving the bolt in.” “The last part is perhaps the reason she's still alive,” he looked up to her, holding her gaze. “Not only does the poison incapacitate, it also soon creates a secretion at the wound that prevents the blood from clotting. Some ponies have removed the bolts from their friends and bandaged them up, only to find them bleeding out minutes later, with no way to stop the flow.” He pointed to the swelling around the wound. “That would be it. For now, the bolt is keeping the secretion from entering the bloodstream in any significant quantity.” Twilight was mortified. Her stomach was churning and sloshing, threatening to upend her lunch on the floor. Luna's life was so delicately balanced, resting on a pinprick. She could have easily killed her without knowing it, and the idea itself was making chills of dread ripple down her sides. “How will she get better?” she asked, beginning to tremble. “Does she need to let it simply run its course?” “I'm afraid not,” Viridian answered, stepping away from Luna and moving closer to the group. “While there is no antidote for the poison itself, there is a way to keep her from bleeding to death when we remove the bolt.” “There is?” Sky broke in. “How?” “There's a cave lichen known as Fire Drizzle, an amber sort that grows in select caverns of the forest. It counteracts the effects of the poison's secretion. If we can grind it up and apply it in a salve it after we extract the shaft, it should stop most of the bleeding.” “Great!” Donevyn said. “Do you have any? We'll pay for more, if you need it.” “I do not,” Viridian sighed. “Its supply has been running extremely low as of late, and I cannot find any in the market. I would have to think it's been due to the increasing number of bandits taking over the caves to the north of here, where we usually harvest from. If we had more time, I'd recommend traveling by the roads east of here, to Leese. I've heard that the caves there are vacant, but unfortunately we don't have the luxury. While the poison is our biggest concern, there is always the problem of infection and gangrene. I can do what I can to keep it at bay for a day at best, but after that I can't guarantee anything.” “Well, what caves around here grow Fire Drizzle?” Twilight asked. “If we have to fight for it, I guess we don't have much of a choice.” “There's only one that I know of, and that'd be Midnight's Den.” Twilight nodded her head. Her legs were rubber, her shoulders sore, and her hooves screaming for relief. The stinging pain on her cheek still lingered from where she had been struck before, bruising to an ugly black. Her mind felt like mush, trapped in a fatigue that showed in her exhausted expression. The new world had given her a beating, kicking her in the gut and leaving her to heave for air in the ditch. And now, she would have to enter it again. “Alright, Midnight's Den it is.”