//------------------------------// // Chapter 40 - Our Goodbyes... // Story: My Little Warcraft - New Friends // by Shin Guyviroth //------------------------------// The room stood still as though frozen in time. Everything in the library was quiet, so much that you could hear the woodlice scurry across the floor. The gentle winds rattled upon the loose hinges of the windows and made quiet whispers through the gaps in the frames. It was hard for anyone to speak. Some of ponies sat quietly upon the seats around the tables and desks, while few others lay upon the floor. Applejack, her body tense as she lay upon the wood, could only run the tip of her hoof in circles on the floorboards. Many of the others had their hooves together in their laps as though in a waiting room. Gilda and Rainbow Dash stood by one another, trying to support one another through this immense waiting game. But Twilight couldn't help but keep her gaze upon the pondering blood elf that sat against the wall, his arms out and perched on his knees as he stared at the ground between his feet. Ever empathetic of others, she felt a tight knot in her stomach and her breath a little bated. Or perhaps that was how Gai'vahros was feeling? "… Have you made a decision yet, Gai'vahros?" spoke Twilight softly, her tightened throat making each word muffled. Their eyes shifted onto Gai'vahros, clenched in both their body and mind as they anticipated his reply -- his decision. But the elf didn't respond. He never even gave any gesture as to whether or not he had heard her. Or perhaps he didn't want to hear. "You there, Gai?" asked Rainbow Dash, trotting over to him and nudging his shoulder with her hoof. "Whatchya thinkin' about?" Gai'vahros sighed heavily, whipping his head up, nearly hitting it against the wall. "I wish I had a bit more time to think about things," he uttered. "I've not spent enough time here to really make a decision… if such a decision could be made." "Still thinking about your home, huh?" asked Twilight. "Yes. It's been on my mind for some time, but I was having so much fun here that I had forgotten about it. But now it's the only thing I can think about now. if I don't go back, then… what will happen? Will we lose in the Isle of Thunder? Will we be slaughtered by the Kirin Tor? What will happen to those of us held in the Violet Hold? What will happen to Silvermoon? Argh, so many thoughts!" "Hey, relax, Gai," exclaimed Rainbow Dash, placing her hoof on his shoulder and sitting down next to him. "I really doubt that your entire population will be destroyed because one guy wasn't there to stop it. And even in the highly unlikely event that it somehow happened, you can't take all the blame. And I don't think they would blame you at all." "Y'know she's right, Gai," bolstered Applejack. "Even you said it yaself that there're so many others that can take ya place in the wars 'n' stuff. They'll be totally fine without ya." "… But it's not just that, my Ladies," continued Gai'vahros. "I won't be able to meet my friends again. Or my people. Or Azeroth altogether. It's like… My Lady Twilight, what would you do if you had to choose between returning home or leaving your friends?" "M-me? I… uh…" Twilight sighed with forfeit. "I don't know…" "It is that level of choice that I must contend with -- and with only a small amount of time to go." "I know it is hard, Gai'vahros, but just remember that, no matter what decision you make, we will fully support it." A small smile spread upon her lips, trying to comfort and assure the stressed elf the best she could. "Thank you. I appreciate it. I appreciate all of you being here." A small chuckle escaped Gidwin. Briskly he ran his hand over his braided beard. "Aye, I wouldn't o' thought this to be such a hard decision," he admitted, much to the surprise of his companions. "You're having second thoughts, too, Giddy?" asked Tarenar. "Think about it, Tarenar. Here, we have everythin' -- green grass, growin' trees, blue skies, singin' birds that don't try an' peck yer eyes out… It's like bein' at home again. Y'know, a real home from home…" "I agree, Giddy, but it's not our home. And besides, we have a duty to fight alongside the Argent Crusade. That was our goal, right? We can't give up on it now." Gidwin couldn't help but sigh, resting his chin on his hand. "I guess yer right," he reluctantly agreed. "Plus I wouldn't find me a good lass 'ere, anyway." "Not if all you do it go 'round jumpin' on them," sneered Gilda. "That's the quickest way to get socked in the chin." The others couldn't help but chuckle, although Gidwin only narrowed his brow and folded his arms tight along his chest, giving an audible huff. "Oh! I almost forgot!" exclaimed Rarity. "What about your sister, Gai'vahros darling? If you leave, then… what will happen to us?" The elf's fingers tightened across his knees as he gripped his boots firmly, his eyes narrowing at the thought of her. "… You're right," he responded. "I'd completely forgotten about her. I'm sure that she will follow me should I return. It is the only reason she remains here, after all." "We still ain't found your other sword, either," added Rainbow Dash. "It's gotta be somewhere around here, right?" "Well, if you do find it, be sure to mail it to me," joked Gai'vahros with a smile. But no matter how much he smiled, there was that one nagging feeling that kept nibbling the back of his mind that he just couldn't hide. It was the decision he made, nor his missing weapon, or even how he would have to leave his new friends behind. His eyes kept shifting to one direction, but couldn't work out what exactly he was looking for. As his eyes shifted once more, he found the cause of that nagging feeling. Uncharacteristically, Pinkie Pie was incredibly quiet all this time. Fluttershy, sure thing, but Pinkie? In fact, she wasn't even smiling. "… My Lady Pinkie Pie," he spoke softly. Her ears pricked up, slowly followed by her eyes. "Are you okay? You've been quite silent." "Oh! S-sure I'm okay!" the suddenly cheerful pony assured with a huge grin on her face. "I mean, you've got to see your awesome friends again! And now you… you get to…" slowly her smile faded. Her lips dropped, dropping into a frown. Her eyes grew sadder. "… Now you get to go home…" It was heartbreaking for the distraught elf to see Pinkie -- a pony who spreads their laughter and cheery nature to all those around her -- fall into such depression. It pained him to look at her, to look at those big, blue eyes almost fill with tears. And it made his choice all the more harder. "It'll be okay, Pinkie," comforted Applejack, wrapping her arm around her friend's body, staying close to her. "Gai can always come visit us from time to time. Ain't that right, Gai?" "Oh, uh, sure I can!" Given that he was the reason, albeit unwillingly, that Pinkie was upset, playing along with Applejack's assurance was the least he could do. "Y… you will?" asked Pinkie. "Absolutely." "You pinkie promise?" "I… I pinkie promise." "No one breaks a pinkie promise! Okay?" "S-sure thing…" "Yay!" It was the least Gai'vahros could do to ease her pain, a smile etched across his lips at being able to cheer her up again. But it didn't change the fact that it was the one promise that he wouldn't be able to keep should his wish for the Magisters to forget about this world come to fruition. The elf slowly stood to his feet, brushing himself off with a hand. "What do you girls think?" he asked. "Do you want me to stay?" The girls looked at each other, unsure of what to say. "I don't want ya to go," mewed Apple Bloom. "Can't ya stay here a lil longer?" Applejack patted her sister on the head softly. "I think what she means to say, Gai, is that she wants ya to come visit every now 'n' then." "That wasn't what I meant," retorted Apple Bloom, frustrated a little. "I meant what I said! Gai… I know that we ain't known each other for a long time, but… it really does feel like I've known ya since forever." "… I know what you mean, little Apple Bloom," admitted Gai'vahros, his voice strained. "But if I don't go back, then Hellscream might send more people here. If I go back and convince our Magisters to halt the research here, then at least only Doreiya will have the knowledge to come here." Twilight nodded in agreement. "We understand the implications of your decision," she said. "And like I said: no matter what choice you make, we will all understand." "Sounds like your choice is already made up," huffed Gilda. "I woulda liked to have sparred with ya when you got better, too." "Sorry, my Lady Gilda," apologized Gai'vahros with a smirk," but I guess you'll have to wait for that." "Pfft. Figures." She turned to Gidwin. "What about you, Shorty? You know it ain't nice to leave a lady hangin'." "Only if you leave me arse out of it this time," grunted Gidwin. A sudden jolt in the earth caused the library walls to shake abruptly though only slightly, making the windows rattle and the front door to open a little. Colours of light violet and blue shone upon the walls through the nearby window, refracting and spreading through the room. Tarenar peeked his head around the wide of the window. "Looks like they are here," he said. "Are you ready, Lord Gai'vahros?" "… I think so," he replied. "Let's get this over with." An awkward situation, surely, that a huge crowd of ponies and Azerothians congregated outside upon the grass as though there was some sort of tribal war occurring. Gai'vahros, accompanied by the others, stood opposite a platoon of blood elven Magisters -- including Doreiya -- lead by their Grand Magister, Rommath. An imposing figure to be sure, Rommath stood up straight, an inch or so taller than most others of his kind, with the exception of Gai'vahros at present. His body, cloaked in a long, sleeveless robe of red and gold, bared only his toned arms that were draped in long armbands and dark red tattoos. Even his face was mostly obscured by a large, full-face collar that revealed only his stern brow and piercing gaze. His dark, navy-blue hair was swept back, tied into a long ponytail that reached past his lower back. "I am glad to see that you are in one piece," the grand Magister spoke aloud. "I trust that you fare well here?" "It is good to see you, too, Grand Magister," replied Gai'vahros in return, bowing a little. "This place is none a threat to those worthy or a sword or staff." "I see. I understand that our Magister here has informed you of what is happening right now?" "More or less. But I must confirm with you first, Rommath: is it true that your Magisters now have access to this world?" Rommath turned silent. His head turned slowly, his sights on Doreiya. "… I see that he has told you more than what is needed. "But, indeed, what you know of is true. No doubt that he has told you the reason, too?" "To be able to relocate any other members of the Horde and to bring them back." "Good. He hasn't told you all of the reasons." "You mean there is more? Tell me, Rommath! What are you thinking?" But the Grand Magister only slammed his staff down onto the dirt, his eyes narrowing. "You will not demand anything from me, blood knight!" he snapped back. "What we do is for the good of the Sin'Dorei!" The girls became defensive, standing by Gai'vahros and maintaining their ground. As much as Rommath was displaying an aggressive position, so did they. "You'll find that this is our world, buster!" exclaimed Applejack. "And if we don't want you here, then we'll kick your butts out by force!" threatened Rainbow Dash, her wings flapping slowly yet with powerful bursts. But the Grand Magister was none threatened by their words. "You'd best to mind your tongues," he threatened, raising his staff and pointing the blade-like tip towards them. "You'll not be able to speak when you're nothing but piles of ash!" "Enough!" yelled Gai'vahros, swinging his arm to the side. The girls took a step back as his arm flashed before them, but nonetheless held their ground, while Rommath lowered his staff to his side. "Rommath… do not bring our war to another world. It is bad enough that Hellscream has restarted this war and to have brought it to the peaceful lands of Pandaria. I will not allow you to risk making this world our next battleground. "In hindsight, I do not care for whatever reasons you have for creating pathways to this world. All I care about is severing them so that no one -- not even the Sin'Dorei -- can come here. If that means cutting you down and every single Magister to do it… then it shall be done." At his words, the Magisters that stood behind Rommath readied their weapons -- staffs, daggers, wands, and spell books all flung forward to put down this one blood elf should they be commanded to. "Lower your arms," commanded Rommath. "My thoughts were misplaced… Gai'vahros, you have a strong conviction, a good sense of justice -- something that I, myself, am envious of. You must really think highly of this place. But you must understand that we have no intention of bringing Hellscream's damn war to this world. We only want to help those who have befallen the same fate as you." "And what of your other reasons? What is it that you are planning that you would hide it from me, a supposed "Lord" of your blood knights? Am I not trustworthy enough for you?" "… It is not that. This is of great secrecy to anyone outside of a high rank. It is not something that should be discussed… openly. For all we know, your talking animal friends here could be Alliance spies -- perhaps even druids who have assumed the form of ponies!" "Hey, we don't drool!" snapped Pinkie Pie. "No, he said "druid", darling, not "drool"," correct Rarity. "In that case, Rommath," said Gai'vahros, "walk with me. Let me show you around this place. Let me show you only a glimpse of what I have seen." "… Very well," replied Rommath with a nod. He turned to those that accompanied him. "Maintain your positions here," he ordered. "Should you be met with hostility, fire at will. Are these terms agreeable with you, Gai'vahros?" But he couldn't help but feel uneasy, even if he was certain that nothing would happen. "I accept the terms," he agreed with great reluctance, "however I am certain that none of them will bother instigating a confrontation." His eyes glanced over and Rainbow Dash and Gilda. "H-hey! We ain't gonna start anything!" defended Rainbow Dash. "I'm sure you won't. However, as for your Magisters, Rommath…" "Doreiya can scry the situation for us. Through his magic, he will record what happens here while we are gone. "Now, shall we be off?" The breeze gently rolled by, passing the two elves as it carried the sickly sweet scent of chocolate, strawberries and cream. Only a minute's or so walk down the lane brought Gai'vahros and Rommath to Ponyville's great, renowned bakery -- Sugarcube Corner. "Take a look at this, Rommath," cheered Gai'vahros with a smile. "You ever seen a building that looked like something that you wish you had for dessert?" "… That's not real chocolate on the roof, right?" asked Rommath, an eyebrow raised as he gazed up to it. "No, no, it is just made to look that way. And, no, that's not real icing sugar or candy canes, either." "Huh. In one manner, I am quite surprised. First, there are talking ponies; second, brightly coloured and highly decorative buildings. Having seen what I have seen so far I wouldn't dare put it past this place to have structures made of confectionary." Gai'vahros chuckled at the thought. "I had the exact same opinion when I first saw this place, too. But you have to admit that it looks good. And smells good, too." "Well I'm not sure about the smell of the building, Gai'vahros, but the colours are rather… vibrant." "Not the smell of the building; I'm talking about what's coming from inside the building." "Oh, of course. That smell is quite nice, isn't it?" A small groan escaped the Magister's throat, along with a small rumble from his stomach. "I didn't think it would make me hungry, though…" "Hah! How about I buy you some things to take with you before you leave?" "It would be uncharacteristic of me to decline your offer, Gai'vahros." "Basically, you're a tightwad." "… Do you have any other places to show me? Or are we done here?" Gai'vahros pondered for a moment, turning back around to the occupied streets. Nothing really caught his eye, though; there were only a few houses that had been rebuilt from before, and a small café that he never actually visited. Although, he did have something else in mind. "I've got an idea," he said. "How about we go meet some of the other ponies here? You've seen their town, so how about you get to know some of the people -- uh, ponies -- here?" "You must have hit your head pretty hard when you came here," retorted Rommath. "You expect me to… converse with talking horses?" "No, I expect you to converse with talking ponies" goaded Gai'vahros in response. "Come on, it will be a great, new experience for you." "You got the "new" part right…" the Magister sighed heavily, shaking his head. "Okay, fine. Who should we talk to?" "Well…" Gai'vahros looked out onto the streets, but there were only a handful of ponies to choose from. His eyes targeted a single stallion that stood by one of the houses, checking his pocket watch as though waiting for someone. Shaking his head, Gai'vahros continued, switching his attention to the café. Sure enough, there stood two mares that appeared to be in gossip just outside. "Them two, over there," he muttered, nudging his head in their direction. "Fine. How should we do this?" "You just follow my lead, okay?" "You seem awfully calm about all of this." "One does not simply roll a blood knight without high charisma. Come on, follow me." Rommath shook his head as he kept close by Gai'vahros. "I should have stayed in bed," he mumbled from behind his collar. Casually the two made their way across the street, passing by many of the other ponies, all of whom glared at the Magister. "They glare at me so," he spoke. "You'll get used to it," responded Gai'vahros. "I was the same when I first arrived. I guess they didn't expect to see another blood elf here." Without too much delay, the both of them found their way to the café, standing just shy of its large porch roof that hung over the outside tables. "Okay, like I said before: just follow my lead, and let me start the talking," whispered Gai'vahros. "I trust your superior expertise," replied Rommath. Almost in unison, the both of them shrugged their collars before making their way to the friendly couple, shifting through a couple of tables and chairs. "Good afternoon," greeted Gai'vahros with a smile and a wave. "Would it be out of bounds for me to ask if we may join you?" The mares turned to each other, almost unsure of what to say, but giggled instead. "Oh, um, sure," one spoke out. Her coat was a pearly-white colour with a long, flowing pink mane tied up into a ponytail that hung over her shoulder, watched by her lavender eyes. On her flank was a mark of a pair of smiling, sparkling teeth. "It's nice to see… uh… new faces--" she turned to Rommath "-- or in his case, half a face." Gai'vahros chuckled a little, joined by his two new acquaintances, much to the chagrin of the Grand Magister. "It's just his uniform, I assure you. Isn't that right, Rommath?" Rommath's head shot up, his eyes shifting as he was put on the spot. "Oh… Yes, quite…" The other mare giggled. "Oh, so he's the quiet type," she assumed. The pony was a very light aqua colour, with a fringed mane of snow white and baby blue. On her flank was a cutie mark of a tube of toothpaste. "Rommath, right? I'm Aqua Fresh. Nice to meet you!" "Y-yes, likewise," he stuttered. "And I'm Darlie Crest," the white mare introduced to Gai'vahros. "You're Gai'vahros, right? The one who helped at the hospital?" "And the one who helped rebuild Ponyville, too?" added Aqua. Gai'vahros couldn't help but blush. "Yes, that's right," he replied with a smile. "Ooooh, and such healthy teeth, too!" praised Darlie, moving her head closer to the elf's smiling lips. "You must take real good care of yourself." "Well, I try… Hehe… " "And, what about you, Rommath?" inquired Aqua, moving her head closer towards Rommath, who recoiled as she came dangerously close. "What are you hiding behind that huge collar of yours? Come on, let's see those pearly whites!" "Do you even have a mouth behind that collar?" teased Gai'vahros. "Of course I do! It's just… I can't remove it." "Oh, sure you can," said Aqua placing her hooves around it. "You just unbutton it, right?" Much to the Grand Magister's discomfort, he couldn't help but let the pony fumble around with it. "There's… no buttons?" "It's part of the robe, ma'am." "Then take your robe off." "E-excuse me?" "You heard me. Take it off." "I will not… strip in front of you and everyone else here!" "What's the big deal? You cold or something?" "I'm not about to strut half-naked in a café just so you can see my teeth! Gai'vahros, a hand, if you please!?" But Gai'vahros merely chuckled. "Come on, Rommath, what's the big deal? Everyone else here is naked." "Apart from you!" Rommath paused for a moment. "I will only strip for you should my companion here do the same." "W-woah! Hold on there, Rommath," challenged Gai'vahros. "Do not drag me into this!" "What's wrong, Gai'vahros? I thought it wasn't a big deal?" "It is when I'm being dragged into someone else's mess!" "I would have thought you would jump at the chance to show off your amazingly toned body. Does that not fall under your "high charisma"?" "I will not do it for you nor anypony else!" "Did you just say "anypony"?" "Argh! Be quiet, Rommath!" Aqua couldn't help but roll her eyes. "They're a bit on the stubborn side, aren't they?" she whispered to Darlie as the two elves argued. "Understatement much?" she responded sarcastically. Her voice boomed as she spoke, gaining the elves' attention, "Look, just do this for us! We just wanna see your friend's teeth, okay? Think of it as… like a free check-up." "No way," denounced Gai'vahros. "I'll have no part in this!" "Well…" Aqua glared at Darlie. Immediately their faces turned from impatience to a crooked, sinister smirk. "If you're not going to do it…" "Then we're gonna have to get a bit more… involved," finished Darlie. Both of them turned their gaze to the now scared elves. "… Gai'vahros," spoke Rommath, "you don't think they mean what I think they mean… do you?" "If that is the case," he replied, "then we're in quite a bit of trouble…" "… Your call, blood knight?" "Quite simple." Quickly Gai'vahros turned tail, vaulting over the table before sprinting away. "Wipe it, Rommath! Wipe it!" he yelled out. The Grand Magister followed suit, turning and tumbling over the top of the table behind him, following Gai'vahros. "H-hey!" yelled out Aqua. The two mares quickly gave chase, weaving around the table and chairs. "Get back here! We're not done!" cried Darlie. With aching legs, heavy breaths, and pounding hearts, both Gai'vahros and Rommath leaned against a single tree as they tried to get their breaths and bodies back. Their bodies carrying them to Fluttershy's place, the two managed to lose the two adamant mares -- for the moment, at least. "I can't--" Rommath took a deep breath "--I can't believe what just happened…!" "Come on, Grand Magister, you know you had fun," goaded Gai'vahros with bated breaths through a smile. "I'm warning you Gai'vahros: just one -- just one person calls me a naked pony-toucher and I'll kill you!" "Calm down, Rommath. We've lost them now…" "Hmph! Some fine day this turned out to be!" The two picked themselves off the floor, dusting themselves off. "Now that we're alone, Rommath," began Gai'vahros, "how about you tell me of the other reasons you are here? What are you after? I highly doubt that you would waste resources just to procure stray members of the Horde." "… Okay. It is best that you knew, since you've been here for a while." Rommath looked around, scanning the immediate surroundings. "There are two other reasons why we've anchored a portal link here. First, we've come to understand that there are strong magics in this realm -- magic that can possibly help us permanently overcome our arcane addictions, or otherwise help our race prosper." "Prosper? At what? The cost of innocents? I dare say that you have planned to wage war or to otherwise forcibly take whatever magics you are looking for." "Don't be naïve, Gai'vahros. With our numbers thinned from the Third War, the war on Northrend, and Garrosh' war, we couldn't begin to hope to stand any sort of chance here. But you are right: we did have plans for an offensive strike -- but only if the locals here proved hostile. No, we will do things diplomatically, just as Lor'themar wants." "It is good to see that were are choosing words over swords for once. But I must inquire: what do you bring to the table that you believe will aid in your diplomacy?" "Trade. Just as we had taught the mortal humans of Strom our arcane prowess, we are offering to trade magical secrets and resources -- lumber, iron, gold -- in return for their knowledge. If we can do this, then it will help us evolve our knowledge." "… And what of your second reason?" "Our second reason… is to capture any members of the Alliance." "What?" growled Gai'vahros. His brow narrowed. "For what reason? What happened to you not bringing Garrosh' war to this world?" "We are not bringing Garrosh' war to this world, Gai'vahros. What we are doing is gaining equal footing in our war against Dalaran. Whether you choose to remember or not, Gai'vahros, but a lot of our kind were either captured or killed during the Sunreavers' purge from Dalaran -- innocent elves whose only crimes were making an honest living in what they believed to be a haven for them! By capturing their own people, we will be able to negotiate the release of our people in return for theirs." Gai'vahros looked down, sighing. "… It's frustrating. It's frustrating to know that what you do is justified, and yet I feel sick knowing that this world will be at risk of further conflict. Alright, Rommath, I concede to your beliefs. But I am of no doubt that Doreiya has informed you of my thoughts on this matter." "He has done. Gai'vahros, I must thank you for showing me around this place. It reminds me of what Quel'Thalas used to be like -- especially when we were with the Alliance. However, I must ask for your cooperation and understanding in why we do what we do." "Then let us compromise, Rommath. I don't want you to risk Garrosh or anyone else gaining this knowledge, and you want to gain access to this place for a number of reasons, so I propose this: limit the knowledge to those who may wield it." "It is only our Magisters who know it." "Not good enough. Limit it further." "To what? Ten people? Five?" "Two." "Two!? Are you serious?" "Dead serious." "… Who do you propose to keep the knowledge?" "You, and Doreiya." "Doreiya? Why not Aethas?" "Because I have known Doreiya for a very long time. He is a great friend of mine, and someone who I can trust fully. And Aethas... Something troubles me about him…" "I'm glad it isn't just me. Regardless, Gai'vahros, I will agree to your terms… "But I must ask one more thing of you…" Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth, a bead of sweat dripping down her face, her foreleg shaking as she laid on the grass with her hoof locked with a Magister's hand, struggling to fight against the surprising strength of her opponent's arm. "I never thought you bookworms would be this good," he goaded with a smirk. "Do not take the Sin'Dorei lightly, pony," the robed elf responded in turn, wrestling with Rainbow Dash' own prowess. "but I admit that I am also surprised at your strength, too." "C'mon, Dashie," cheered Applejack, "you can do better than that!" "Focus, mage," coached Doreiya from behind. "If you are to be a spell breaker, then this is only a glimpse of what strength you'll need!" But their cheers were only a small portion of the grand orchestra; the rest of the ponies, Fiona, Tarenar, and Gidwin gave their hearty support for Rainbow Dash, while the entire lance of Magisters gave encouragement to their fellow blood elf. But as the elf began to gain the upper hand in this arm wrestling contest, Rommath and Gai'vahros had made their way back. "What on earth is going on here?" called out Rommath, shocked at what he saw before him. The Magisters all looked up, including Rainbow Dash' opponent. "G-Grand Magister!" the elf spoke in shock. But with his guard down, Rainbow Dash took the opportunity to capitalize on the opening, slamming the Magister's hand down into the grass. "Hah!" she yelled out, bursting from the ground with a strong beat of her wings. "Told ya I was gonna win!" "T-that was not fair!" challenged the Magister, banging the ground with his palms before clambering to his feet. "I demand a rematch!" "That is enough," said Doreiya, pulling his compatriot by the shoulder. "On the battlefield, there is no fairness; only life and death. And you died. Horribly." Rommath cleared his throat loudly, garnering the attention of those present. Hoisting his staff, he planted it onto the ground. "If we are all done playing games, then now is the time that we discuss matters. First, I must ask: which one of you… um… ponies is in charge?" They all turned their eyes to Twilight. Despite her uncertainty, Twilight nodded. "I guess that, in light of what is present, I shall hear what you have to say," she responded. Rommath spared no fine detail in what he was to discuss. As he had done with Gai'vahros before, he discussed about how they were able to venture to Equestria, how they have come to seek aid in return for their own knowledge and supplies, although the Grand Magister was careful to omit the part about capturing Alliance personnel -- something that Gai'vahros was glad that he had done. Twilight pondered as Rommath finished. "I am grateful that you are here of no ill will," she said, "and I would be more than happy to give you any knowledge I can, but this is not something I should be decisive of. You would have to speak with the Princess'." "Oh. I see. It is unfortunate, but our time grows short. Now, Gai'vahros…" Surprisingly quiet throughout the ordeal, Gai'vahros only nodded to Rommath. "Yes. I understand, Grand Magister." But the rest of the ponies only looked on, their mouths opening as if to say something, anything, but no noise was made aside from the rustling of grass beneath their shifting hooves. "So… Gai…" spoke Applejack slowly. "have you made your decision…?" "I'm afraid so," he responded. "Or rather, it was Rommath who made the decision for me." "W-what are you talkin' about?" exclaimed Rainbow Dash. Her expression began to skew, becoming angry. "Who the hay is this guy to tell you what to do!?" "One of my superiors, unfortunately. In the end, if it is to benefit my people, then I shall obey." "So, what? You just gonna bend over and take whatever he gives you? What about your thoughts? What about your decisions?" "Rainbow Dash, enough!" called out Twilight. Reluctantly, Rainbow Dash retreated before landing on the ground. Her head hung low, her eyes gazing away. "I'm sorry, Gai'vahros. I know how Rainbow Dash feels, but… if it is something you must do, then you must do it. Like I said before, we will all support the decision you make." As hard as it was for him, Gai'vahros looked over to Rainbow Dash. Just seeing her like she was made his heart crack. "… Thank you, my Lady Twilight," he responded softly. "Grand Magister, whenever you are ready." Rommath nodded, picking his staff from the ground before heading towards the portal, with Gai'vahros following by his side. "Move out, brothers. We are done here." The Magisters lined up into a long, single file line in front of the portal before making their way through one by one. After a minute or so, all of the Magisters besides Doreiya had made their way through. "I guess I'll see you back on Azeroth in a few, then?" spoke Doreiya. "Take care, everyone." with a smile and a wave, he stepped through the portal. As Doreiya faded through, Fiona and her companion took their leave from the group, much to their surprise, and headed towards the portal. "So you've decided to return to the Argent Crusade?" asked Gai'vahros. "Aye, lad," responded Gidwin. "We set out to join the Crusade, and now that we're in it, we can hardly let them down now. Sure, it means goin' back to the cesspit that is the Plaguelands, but we'll always have each other." "Well said, Giddy," agreed Tarenar with a smile. "Despite having a worgen and dwarf with me, I'm sure that we will have no problems making our way back to Light's Hope Chapel through Silvermoon." "I will see to it that you will have no issues," assured Rommath. "With all the help the Argent Crusade has done for all of us in the war on Northrend, you are all welcome through our gates any time." "We appreciate your hospitality, Grand Magister," spoke Fiona. "Now, boys, shall we be off?" "Aye, let's get goin'." Gidwin turned, waving off to the others. "See ya soon, lasses! Take care, Gilda!" "O-Oh!" exclaimed Gilda, caught off guard. "Chyeah, see ya later, tin man…" "See you on the other side, Lord Gai'vahros," said Tarenar. The three of them made their way through the portal, leaving only the Grand Magister, Gai'vahros, and the rest of the Equestrians standing in the field. But the others began to shift uncomfortably amongst themselves. From their rustling hooves to their jittering bodies, restlessness and anxiety sat upon them. "So… I guess this is it then… ?" muttered Applejack. "Gai… I know we haven't met for a long time, an' I know that it's silly o' me, but… I'm really gonna miss you." "I wish you could stay with us, Gai," pouted Apple Bloom, tears welling up in her eyes. "Wish you could stay for another day or two… or a week…" Gai'vahros turned to them, watching as their saddened faces pierced through whatever armor he was wearing, sundering it, and stabbing into his heart. But he remained silent as they spoke. "We never got to have that sparring match, either," joined Rainbow Dash. She lifted her head up, smiling. "But maybe some other time, right? I know you'll be back one day!" "Oh! Gai'vahros!" cried Rarity, her eyes squinting, trying to hold back her tears. "I can't believe that you're leaving us so soon… But, when you looked at that diamond, you'll think of us, won't you?" The elf's hand reached into the pocket of his leggings, his fingers wrapping around a hard, stone-like object. As he pulled his hand out, he gazed upon the shield-shaped diamond, turning it in his palm with his fingers, the light refracting through its many facets and shimmering in multiple colours. "I… I'm sad to see you go, Gai'vahros," spoke Fluttershy from behind her long mane, "but I'll be happy for you knowing that you can go back to helping others in your world… I… I'll miss you…" "I was gonna throw you a going away party," spoke Pinkie Pie, dangerously quieter than her usual self, "but I…" her mane and tail suddenly deflated, falling straight down. "I just didn't have it in me to do one for you… I don't want you to go…" "Y'know, I haven't known ya as much as Dashie and the others have," admitted Gilda, "but… you saved my life… And you saved my friendship with Dashie… I don't think I can ever begin to pay you back for everything… I mean, what I'm trying to say is… Thanks, man." Twilight stepped forwards, hesitating to move any further, but found it within herself to keep on towards Gai'vahros. Her eyes locked with his as she stood before him. "Well… I'm glad to see that you've finally found a way back home," she said with a half-hearted smile. "And you get to see all your friends back home, too." Gai'vahros shifted his eyes away, then turned to look at the others before him. "At the cost of others," he spoke sombrely. "I… I know…" Twilight hung her head. Her eyes began to strain, to sting a little. Her body trembled and her legs wobbled. Her lips began to quiver, her throat forcing out soft whimpers. Clenching her eyes shut, the tears trickled down her cheeks, soaking into her coat and skin as small whimpers passed through her clenched throat. Her whimpers quickly turned to heartbroken sobs. "Please… don't leave…" The touch of silk pressed along the back of her neck and head, guiding her forward, pressing her cheek and chest against the warm metal of Gai'vahros' breastplate. His silken fingers brushed through her mane, stroking her head as he held her close. "You don't need to worry," he whispered into her ear. His grip loosened, letting Twilight go. She in turn looked up to him, her eyes glistening through her tears. "Thank you, Rommath." "Not at all, Gai'vahros. For as long as you remain here, you shall represent the Sin'Dorei. I hope you enjoy your new position." Taking his staff, Rommath proceeded through the portal. Slowly the portal collapsed upon itself until it had faded completely. The looks of surprise and confusion spread amongst the rest of them. "Does that mean…" spoke Rainbow Dash. "… Does that mean you're staying with us?" "Truly!?" added Rarity, a huge smile across her muzzle. Gai'vahros smiled back. "Yes, everyone…" his eyes looked down to Twilight, his smile purging the heartache from the poor Unicorn. "… I'm here to stay." Twilight blinked as she gazed up into his emerald eyes. Her heart throbbed from within her chest, a huge load lifted from her very soul. Her lips spread across her muzzle, forming a smile greater than what the elf had ever witnessed before. "You're staying!" she yelled out, pouncing at the unsuspecting elf as she wrapped her forelegs around him, snuggling up to him. "I can't believe you're staying!" The cries and cheers of the others was more than enough to deafen the hearing-sensitive Gai'vahros. Like a rush of bulls, the others galloped towards him and tackled him to the ground as he let out a loud *oomph*, holding him in one, huge, collective cuddle. "Yay! You're staying!" cried Apple Bloom, holding onto Gai'vahros' waist. "So we can have that sparring match, now!?" exclaimed Rainbow Dash with an escalated smile. "We can throw a Gai'vahros-gets-to-stay-with-us party, too!" added Pinkie Pie, her hair now fluffed up back to its usual good, curly self. "Okay, okay, girls!" announced Gai'vahros, trying to push himself back up, but the others were so eager to let him up just yet. "Gah! You're all so heavy!" Twilight only giggled at Gai'vahros plight as he struggled. "I told you, Gai'vahros…" she said. "I know. You're right, my Lady Twilight. Friendship really is magical -- and breath-taking, but that's probably just you all squeezing my lungs really hard…"