//------------------------------// // Chapter 12: Public bias // Story: Lunar Apprehension // by Vypor //------------------------------// Tsyreim raised his hoof to stop Twilight. “Before any explanations are to take place, I must first deal with this conflict.” Walking over to Rarity, Tsyreim looked down at the headpiece, and the large diamond in the center of it. “Explain where you acquired the jewel.” Rarity stuttered, looking from Tsyreim to the dragon, and then back to Tsy. “W-Well. Spike and I were off hunting gems for the dress I was making for Sapphire Shores...” “I know nothing of this, 'Sapphire Shores'. Simply explain where you got it.” Tsyreim told her again. “It was in a big cave.” Spike interrupted. “Stuck in the stone...” Tsyreim threw up his hoof to silence them. “As I suspected.” Turning to the dragon, he explained some details to Rarity. “Obviously you are unaware of the traditional dragon-resting. When a dragon is to sleep within a cave for a long period of time, it is always on top of a large pile of gems and shiny objects.” Looking back at Rarity, he continued. “However, they cannot transport all of it at once, and so they search for a suitable place, carrying their prize gem with them. Once satisfied with a choice, they heat up the stone within and force the gem into it, marking it as their territory.” Both Rarity and Spike looked at each other and swallowed. “W-We stole the marker then?” “Indeed you have.” Tsyreim nodded. “Fortunately for you, I was here to explain the situation to you both before the drake's rage reduced your town to ashes.” The dragon scraped the ground with their claws awkwardly, looking back up at Tsyreim as he was addressed. “You, Scaled-One. One so old should know better than to let their temper rule their actions.” Tsyreim sighed. “Also, if your resting place is so near here, then I am afraid I cannot allow you to rest there, as the smoke from doing so will cover this land for far too long. And life here will suffer.” The dragon nodded solemnly, looking back up as Tsyreim continued. “I digress however, as we still seem to have an issue, and I may possess the solution.” He called to Rarity. “Tell me, this 'Sapphire Shores' you spoke of. I gather that they are an important individual are they not?” “Very much so.” Rarity affirmed. Looking down at the gem, Tsyreim thought for a moment. “She may keep the gemstone.” The dragon immediately hit their fist to the ground in disapproval. “This is unacceptable!” “Silence!” Tsyreim shouted. “Do not think for a moment that I have ignored the unintended wrongdoing here. You shall gain a new gem, one which I'm sure you would find far more valuable than the one taken from you.” The dragon blinked as Tsyreim began to wave his hooves around each other. A light appeared between them, and began to grow as Tsyreim whispered, energy flowing forth from his mouth toward the light. It took solid form, and grew more, soon recognizable as a red crystal. It soon surpassed the size of the stolen diamond, and smoothed out into a large faceted orb, formed symmetrically-perfect. Ceasing his formation of the crystal, Tsyreim held it and looked over it. The light from it's forging still radiated from inside, much like a fire. “I think this shall be a sufficient payment, no?” He smiled, angling the gem, which flashed the same rune as his mark within. The dragon eagerly took it, running their claw over the gem. “A blessing from the Holiral is overly-acceptable. A thousand thanks to you.” Tsyreim bowed. “My pleasure.” Taking a glance back at Rarity, he winked. “I believe this conflict has thus been settled then. You may go, Scaled-One.” The dragon bowed before Tsyreim, and with a single powerful leap, launched into the air, the drake's wings carrying him further up. Before long, he had soared out of sight, and Tsyreim turned back to Twilight. “Now then, we had some business to attend to, did we not?” “That we did.” Twilight motioned to the door. “Inside.” Tsyreim walked inside and looked around at all the books stacked neatly. “A place of knowledge. A fitting dwelling for one so hungry for learning.” Twilight nodded. “I thought so too. But we're not talking about books here.” “Then speak, Twilight Sparkle.” Tsyreim sat back, waving his hoof. “In all my years, I have never seen anything like what just happened out there. Who are you, and why did that dragon recognize and listen to you so intently?” Twilight demanded. Tsyreim had to grin. Her confusion was adorable in it's own way. “Respect of the 'Holiral', as you heard the drake refer to me, is a tradition passed down through draconic generations.” “I shall not expound too much information, as the knowledge which I have is required to be kept secret. But what I can tell you, is why I know so much about the Elements of Harmony, which you and your friends so embody.” Turning to the door, Tsyreim listened to all the ponies crowding about outside. “I'm afraid I cannot tell you any further while prying ears are listening.” Twilight opened the door, half of Ponyville sat outside the Library, staring silently at her. “Ok, everypony just go back to what you were doing. I'll take care of this.” They mumbled to each other, and looked back at her curiously. Finally making their way back to wherever they came. Except for the rest of the Six, who walked up to Twilight. “What in the hay just happened over here?” Applejack inquired, looking around. “Ah saw a dragon land over here, and when I arrived, he was just a sittin' there, listening to that Tsyreim fellow talking.” Pointing in at Tsy, she spoke again. “In fact, what's he even doin' here in the daylight?” “Saving your settlement from a fiery doom.” Tsyreim simply replied. “Riiiight.” Rainbow Dash hovered above the farmpony. “So like, can we come in? We're important, right?” Twilight looked back at Tsyreim, who nodded. “Let them. They too should know.” The ponies all piled in and lined up in front of him. “So, what is going on here?” Fluttershy raised her hoof in question. Tsyreim smiled at her. “I am explaining myself, Element of Kindness.” Looking over the bunch, he took a breath. “As I was telling Miss Sparkle and Rarity, I know so much about the Elements of Harmony, due to the fact that I am the Curator of the Basilica of Harmony. Or in laypony's terms, the Guardian of the place where the Elements themselves were forged.” All six ponies stared at him, Rainbow Dash's hoof immediately shooting into the air. “Wait, so it's like some lost ancient temple thingy?” Her wings quivered in excitement from the prospect of such adventure. “You could call it that.” Tsyreim nodded. “I was commissioned to guard the site before I was even born. Once I was granted the position, I became immortal. This is the reason why I have lived over a thousand years, witnessing the banishment and return of Luna. I am to serve as Curator, until currently unforeseen circumstances... 'Remove' me, as it were, from such a position.” “So is it like, filled with traps and stuff?” Rainbow Dash asked again. “Irrelevant.” Tsyreim replied, looking to Fluttershy as she raised her hoof slowly. “Is there any other pony there? Surely it's not just...” Tsyreim shook his head. “Corporeally, it is just myself. There are two other... Spirits, I shall refer to them as, who dwell there with me. But aside of that, it is just myself.” Twilight raised her hoof to ask a question. “Ok then, if you guard the, Temple f Harmony, I'll call it. Does that mean you guard the Elements themselves?” Each pony looked at each other. Applejack muttering. “Dunno if I like the idea of some pony constantly followin' me around...” “Then fret not, Honesty.” Tsyreim replied without being addressed. “For the answer is no. Not directly. The Elements themselves are guarded by those who wield them. Therefore, you each are guardians of your individual Element. And while I feel compelled to at least make sure no harm comes to you all, due to my sworn protection of the Temple, I will only aid as far as is needed or required.” Pinkie bounced up and down, ever determined to be different. “So like, does that mean you're gonna hang around more? Cause you sound like a pretty fun guy.” Everypony stared at her, and then at Tsyreim. His expression remained unaltered. “Fun, is not exactly the term which would be used to describe myself.” “Nonsense!” Pinkie walked over to him, throwing her leg around his shoulder and waving her other in front of his face. “Imagine! I'm sure the ponies won't mind you being around after helping us with that dragon problem. So you could come to the parties, and festivals, and OH OH! You just HAVE to try the sweets at Sugarcube Corner!” The room went silent again. Applejack leaned toward Dash. “Well, there she goes again...” Twilight shook her head. “Pinkie, that's not why he's he-” Tsyreim raised his hoof. “Wait, be you referring to that brown, hard, melty sweet treat at the stands?” “Chocolate!” Pinkie beamed. Tsyreim blinked. “If it involves this, 'Chocolate', and Celestia not knowing of my presence here, then I will agree.” “Chocolate?” Rainbow stared in disbelief at Tsyreim. “Chocolate is all we needed to lure him out?” Tsyreim shrugged. “I see not what the issue is. Laughter has made made a decadent offer indeed.” “I'm having trouble believing this, but if that's what you want, I can try my best to make sure everypony knows you should be kept a secret.” Twilight muttered. “Chocolate... Who would have known.” Tsyreim looked out the window and sighed. “I was being partially sarcastic, as I don't particularly believe they will accept me. But I shan’t lie, I do rather wish I wasn't so... Feared. I mean nopony harm, why would I ever?” “Then we'll see what the town thinks.” Twilight said, walking to the door. “Come on, we're going to see if the Mayor has had a change of heart since you saved us from an angry dragon.” Tsyreim stood up and walked through the door behind the Six. He was hesitant, ponies all over stopped and stared at him as they all made their way toward the Town Hall. And he couldn't help but imagine they were already waiting for a chance to go and report him when he wasn't looking. As they approached the building for a second try, the guards at the entrance looked at each other. Clearly undecided whether they should try to apprehend Tsyreim, or thank him for putting a swift end to what could have been a disaster. The Mayor looked back as the doors swung open, the Six and Tsyreim trotted calmly back inside. “Uhh... Can I help you?” She stuttered. “Let's try this again.” Twilight cleared her throat. “I think after the event today, Tsyreim should be granted some sort of thanks.” “Thanks indeed...” The Mayor mumbled under her breath. “What are you suggesting?” Twilight made her point clear. “No hostilities towards Tsyreim in the town, and his presence be kept a secret until we can further find out what the conflict is between the Princess and him.” Mayor Mare was certainly apprehensive about the subject, but couldn't deny that he had helped. She ground her teeth in frustration as she looked over the group of ponies facing her. Then at the townsfolk who began to peek through the windows in curiosity. Tsyreim raised his hoof calmly. “May I speak?” The elder reluctantly agreed. Tsyreim stepped forward. “I know not what you have against me, other than preconceived notions about my debatable notoriety. But I still ask of you to consider this. I did not ask for that event earlier, and what with my desire to remain a secret, I very well could have let it continue as it already was.” Looking back at the Six, he smiled. “These ponies have shown me something, which I have never experienced before.” Looking back at the Mayor, he continued. “The simply joy, that is friendship.” The expression of surprise was clearly visible on the elder's face. “What do you mean? You never-” “-Had friends?” Tsyreim chuckled. “No, indeed I have not. My entire life has been a secret, mostly due to your Princess' warrant out for me. I told you once before, that I do not know why she is after me, but I aim to find out, in a way that is not in any way harmful to the citizens of this fair village.” Bowing in respect, Tsyreim spoke once more. “I know you are not fond of my presence here, but I assure you I shall do my best to be a productive member for as long as fate sees fit for me to reside here.” Mayor Mare straightened her glasses, clearly confused by this turn of events. “Are you saying... You want to move in to Ponyville?” “Nay.” Tsyreim stood again. “It is not my place to take permanent residence in any site other than where I already live. But I intend to visit from time to time, in hopes that perhaps I can straighten out this conflict between Celestia and my family. My only desire, is to keep my presence here unknown to her for as long as is needed to do so.” Twilight nodded to the Mayor, who looked over them all. She rubbed her forehead, and let out a heavy sigh before waving her hoof. “I must be getting crazy in my old age, but fine. I expect you to hold to your word, for on the day that you do not, I will report you at once.” Tsyreim bowed yet again. “My gratitude, young one.” A small grin ran across his face at the Mayor's snort of disbelief. “Twilight, he is your problem. In fact, he is all six of your problem.” Mayor Mare motioned to the ponies just behind Tsyreim. “Keep him under control will you?” Pinkie Pie immediately began to bounce around. “Oh boy! Oh boy! New friend welcoming time!” Applejack trotted up to Tsyreim. “Hey, you said you wanted t'be productive. The Apple Family farm has plenty of work tah be done if yer willin' to keep the Mayor satisfied with your stay here.” Tsyreim nodded. “Noted. I'll take a look around town, and perhaps do some research with Miss Sparkle beforehand, if that is so desirable with you.” Applejack frowned at the unusually formal speech. “Well, that's fine by me. Just come on down to mah stand in the market if yer ever interested.” Tsyreim bowed. “Tis my pleasure, Honesty.” Applejack just shook her head. “Ya know, if ya don't want ponies to be lookin' at'cha all weird-like, you might wanna change the way you speak.” Tsyreim raised an eye. “Oh?” He grinned again. “And ah do suppose that you would know a truly amazin' load ah knowledge 'bout that would'ja?” Applejack stared unimpressed at his antics. “Well, at least ya got a sense ah humor.” Walking past Twilight, she waved her hoof. “He's all yours, sugarcube.” Twilight giggled at the farmpony's frustration, and walked to Tsyreim. “I told you we'd win eventually. This will make it much easier to search for answers. But that can wait, I'm sure you want to see around town.” Tsyreim nodded slowly. “Although I have gained a good bit of knowledge regarding the layout of the town, due to my hidden study of it, I don't know what all the places are. Nor do I know anypony besides yourselves.” As they exited the building, guards trotted past them to inform the townsfolk of the new 'denizen'. They too seemed confused by the whole ordeal, but orders were orders. Rainbow Dash flew down next to Tsyreim. “So... You know a lot of crazy spells huh?” Tsyreim looked up at her. “If you are referring to the extended study of the language of magic and it's properties, then yes. Why do you mention it?” “Do you know a spell to fly?” Rainbow Grinned. “Betcha don't.” Tsyreim shook his head. “Negative. Approximately nine-hundred and seventy-three years ago, I was to learn a spell for such a feat. However I refused to learn it.” The ponies with him stopped and looked back. Twilight was the first to ask. “Why? That's an incredibly useful spell, I thought you'd know them all after that much time.” “To know ALL the spells is impossible.” Tsyreim shrugged. “I refused to learn the spell however, due to my belief that if I were meant to fly, I would have been born a Pegasus.” Rainbow Dash simply laughed. “You gave up the ability to soar through the sky, because you didn't believe in it?” “I never said I didn't believe in it.” Tsyreim muttered. “I simply pointed to the fact that I didn't believe I was meant to, therefore I need not be able to.” “I still say you're crazy.” Rainbow shrugged, flying upside down in front of him. Tsyreim simply rolled his eyes and continued on, Twilight ever helpful in explaining the town. And Pinkie ever distracting from Twilight. Tsy wandered around with them, taking in the sights, and trying to ignore the peculiar stares from the townsfolk. He knew it would take far more than a simple agreement and freak event to convince them that he was trustworthy. Twilight tried to introduce several ponies, but it didn't go so well. They were either scared of him, or unwilling to meet him. However, he looked up to see a Pegasus gliding somewhat haphazardly through the air. Dropping down low, they stopped in front of a house and shoved some bits of paper into a box. Their antics, cutie mark, and perpetual smile were unmistakeable. Turning around, the Pegasus locked eyes... Somewhat, with Tsyreim. That off-kilter gaze sealed his guesses. “Hold up for a second, Miss Sparkle.” Tsyreim stopped his guide, who turned around with a heavy sigh. “I thought I told you to call me... Oh.” Tsyreim trotted over to the gray mailmare. “Good to see a familiar face.” He bowed. Derpy's expression lit up. “Hey! It's... You! Umm, what was your name again?” “I never actually told you my name.” Tsyreim had to chuckle. “My name is Tsyreim. Good to finally meet you on less... Dramatic terms, so to speak.” Derpy mumbled his names a couple times, fiddling her tongue around to pronounce it till she got it. At which point her expression sprung back to a grin. “That's a nice name!” “I'll tell my mother you think so.” Tsyreim waved. “I see you are quite occupied as it were, so I shall leave you to your task, whatever that may be.” “Oh.” She scratched her chin. “Well, okay. Will you be around again? I love meeting new ponies.” “Far more frequently than I normally am, that is for sure.” Tsyreim nodded. “Now if you'll excuse me.” The two waved goodbye to each other, and Tsy walked back to Twilight. “If only more were so ready to accept me.” Twilight's ears lowered. “Oh come on, they'll warm up. All you have to do is help up around town. If you ask Mayor Mare, she should have some tasks for you to do.” Smiling back, she nudged him. “Who knows? Maybe you'll turn her reaction to you around.” “Tis a start.” Tsyreim shrugged, then looking up at the large pink building before him. Pinkie bounced into his vision. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! Best place in town to get a snack or refreshment. And smiles are ALWAYS on the house!” Tsyreim had to chuckle. Her antics were ever unpredictable, and still entertaining. And due to his recent shopping trips, he had acquired himself a sweet tooth, so the shop was a definite stop on the trip around town. Opening the door, a small bell rang, and just as quick, a perky voice called from behind a counter. “Welcome to Sugarcube cor... Ner?” A rounded blue Earth pony stared from behind the counter at the newcomer. “Umm... May I help you?” Twilight walked in. “It's fine Mrs. Cake, he's not here to cause trouble.” Pinkie Pie was soon to follow. “He's a really cool guy. He scared off that dragon that attacked earlier!” “He did not flee in fright.” Tsyreim corrected her. “I made him a fair deal, and he saw fit to accept, rather than cause ruin here.” Mrs. Cake grinned unconvincingly. “Twilight... Isn't that the pony from the posters?” Twilight walked over. “I know you're reasonable. And I believe with utmost sincerity, that he is innocent of whatever he's being accused of. Have YOU ever met a criminal who has repeatedly helped other ponies?” “Twilight, I've never met a criminal at all.” The shopkeeper muttered. “But...” Looking at Tsyreim, she sighed. “If you all trust him, I'll believe you. You haven't been wrong yet...” Trying her smile again, Mrs. Cake invited Tsyreim over to the counter. “Pardon my manners. I'm sorry if I came off at all, nervous.” “In all truth, you still are.” Tsyreim shrugged. “But alas, there has not been a pony in this settlement who has not responded thusly. So no apology is needed, I understand your apprehension.” There was a pause, and Pinkie leaned over to Mrs. Cake. “Hint, he really likes chocolate.” The shop-pony quickly pulled out a tray with several chocolates lined up on it. “Well, would you like to try a sample perhaps?” “It would be my pleasure.” Tsyreim bowed. Looking over the selection, he levitated the smallest simplest one off the tray. “Oh get a bigger one.” Pinkie urged him. Tsyreim responded with a shake of his head. “I do not wish to be greedy, it is a gift. Anyone would want to take the largest.” Taking a bite, he chewed slowly and methodically, savoring the richness of the chocolate as it melted. Such a treat, he had never had chocolate before his trips to this town. He wondered how he could have missed out on something like this for a thousand years. After finishing it, he wiped his mouth and bowed again. “Thank you for that, it was most delectable.” Mrs. Cake wasn't sure why he kept bowing, but figured it was his way of saying thank you, so she bowed just to be safe. Pinkie watched her with head tilted in curiosity. Suddenly then exclaiming to Twilight. “How come we never bow to anypony but Celestia? We should bow more!” Tsyreim looked from side to side at the ponies. “Pardon my lack of social education, but is it not acceptable to bow in this society?” Twilight shook her head. “Oh, no not that. It's just... Well, ponies stopped doing that to everypony but royalty many generations ago.” “I see.” Tsyreim mused. “Then you'll not mind if I continue to do so, it is what I know.” “Of course not.” She smiled. “Well, there isn't much else to show you. Besides the market. Which I'm sure you already know very well by now.” “Of course.” Tsy affirmed. “Shall we then get to our research?” “We shall.” Twilight replied. “Just head outside, I'll meet you there.” Tsyreim eyed her and nodded, walking out the door. Twilight waited till the door closed before turning to her friends. Only Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie had come with them. The others had business to attend to. Twilight grinned nervously. “What do you think so far, girls? I'm trying to make him feel welcome here, but it's... Well it's not easy.” “Of course it's not gonna be easy, with all these 'Wanted' posters of him all over town.” Dash rolled her eyes. Fluttershy raised her hoof. “Well, there isn't a lot we can do that way. Just be nice to him. I think the best thing for him to do is help around like Twilight said. If ponies actually see him helping, it will make a big difference.” Twilight shrugged. “I guess just keep doing what we're doing then. Come on, he's waiting.” They all four headed back outside and looked around for him. “Where'd he go?” Twilight said, turning when Dash pointed. “Over there.” The ponies watched as Tsyreim was talking to a pony with a limp. “That's Butter Brickle, what's he doing talking to her?” Dash asked Twilight. “Trying to make a friend maybe?” She replied back. Tsyreim however, wasn't looking for friends, so much as inquiring about the mare's cast. “Miss, may I ask why you possess such a limp?” He asked calmly. She hobbled away from him a bit, keeping off of the cast as much as she could. “Why do you want to know?” “I may know how to help.” Tsyreim simply said. “If you would outline what happened, and allow me to inspect it, I may be able to render assistance.” The pony saw Twilight and called out to her. “Would you get this guy away from me?” Twilight and her friends ran over. “Tsyreim, what are you doing?” “Trying to help a pony who could possibly injure their leg if putting it through continued usage.” Twilight looked at Butter Brickle. “What are you even doing out of your house, I thought you needed to keep off that leg.” The yellow-orange mare grumbled. “I can't earn a living just sitting around. And this leg takes too long to heal.” Tsyreim stopped her. “Broken leg? Hold still please.” He walked towards her. She looked at Twilight, who nodded for her to agree. “Is he a doctor or something?” Tsyreim shook his head. “I know not what a doctor is, but I know many fixes for ailments and injuries. I have to, I lived in isolation for longer than this settlement has been in existence. So if you will stay still, I can render assistance.” Leaning forward, Tsy squinted, his horn glowing as he inspected her leg, detecting what fractures she had and where. “I must say, this is much easier inspecting when it is not myself.” Stepping back, he thought for a moment. “That rudimentary binding will not aid your leg. If you are seeking a speedy recovery, I have an arcane alternative.” Twilight raised an eyebrow. “You know a healing spell that heals broken limbs?” “Not healing of the limb itself.” Tsyreim shook his head. “But a magical brace which both holds the limb in place, and accelerates the healing process. I once used it when I acquired such an injury, and was back to normal within four days.” “Impossible.” Twilight muttered. “Four days? A broken leg?” “The spell requires regulatory recharging, which I shall return to do once a day. You'll be back on your hooves in no time.” Tsyreim told the injured mare. She winced and thought for a bit. “I couldn't afford a long-term hospital visit...” “I require no payment.” Tsyreim answered her unasked question. “I wish only for the denizens of this town to accept me as a friend.” “Fine.” She said. “But you better know what you're doing...” “Rest assured, I do.” Tsyreim bowed. “Now please hold still.” She stayed stiff, as Tsyreim began to telekinetically remove her cast. As soon as it was off, he glanced over the wound and stretched out his hooves. He began to whisper, and his horn glowed. Butter Brickle looked at Twilight quickly. “What is he doing? Why is he whispering?” Twilight was too excited to witness another Prequestrian spell however, and only held up her hoof so she could concentrate on what Tsyreim was doing. Magical energy began to swirl around the broken leg, and Tsyreim spoke out, winding his hooves in a circular motion. “...Habkole Nluje Lefraliruge Jiduh Pibmide...” Immediately, a series of glowing arcane rings made up of strange runes flashed around the injured leg, a fine mist radiated off of them into the leg. Brickle fidgeted as it appeared, and looked over it. “What... What is this?” “How does it feel?” Tsyreim inquired. “It... It doesn't hurt.” She moved it slightly, the magical brace keeping the injured area from touching anything or bending at all. “Excellent.” Tsyreim smiled. “Now, regardless whether you feel you can move around. The rule stays the same, best to keep off of the leg for several days. You should be able to work again in two days, but we'll keep the brace on for another two simply for the sake of making sure.” Butter Brickle kept looking at it, then back up at Tsyreim. “I don't know what to say. But, thank you. Thank you so much.” Tsyreim bowed once again. “My pleasure. I said I was here to help, and I meant it.” He walked past Twilight, looking down at her. “Are you going to report me for using an illegal language?” “If it wasn't already illegal, I'd ask you to use it more.” She giggled. “That was amazing. What spell was that?” Tsyreim walked with her toward the library, explaining some of it. “I'm all about simplifying spells into something worth more than a single effect. So I took a couple years and worked on restorative spells. That one I wrote by combining a gradual healing spell, and a binding spell, which is normally used for detaining a foe. The result is a rather effective arcane cast or sorts.” Twilight began overflowing with questions. The ability to bind spells to each other to create a single spell with both effects? She had to know more. They returned to the library, and Tsyreim explained some things, but knowing the language was banned, he withheld information for her safety. Instead, all he did was outline history and little tidbits about it, no actual spellcasting or spellcrafting information. He had to smile, watching her frustration when she didn't get any of that. “I thought you enjoyed history study, Miss Sparkle.” Twilight grumbled. “Yeah yeah, well I want to know more about how the language affects magic. Not some details that just tell me history about it.” “Patience, Twilight. Patience.” Tsyreim said, standing up. “You know as well as I, that this language is banned. Practice of it is strictly forbidden.” “Well if it's so illegal, then why do YOU use it?” Twilight crossed her forelegs. “Because it is what I was raised with. It is how I learned. I am exempt from those rules, for I require the dialect. Without it, I would no longer be able to efficiently protect my home. Deep within the forest, there are no rules. There is nopony there to enforce them. Learn to survive and protect yourself, or die as prey to another. This is everything I have known since I was but a colt.” Tsyreim took a glance out the window. “And now I must bid you farewell, Miss Sparkle. Night comes. I must return home.” Twilight stood up and walked over to him. “Sorry for getting frustrated with you.” “You thirst for knowledge, and the mysteries within the Prequestrian. It is perfectly understandable. With knowledge, comes power. Too much power, can corrupt if that is all you desire. This is why I hold back information from you.” Tsyreim told her. “You are not unwise. That much is clear. That is also why I have told you what I have of the Prequestrian. Perhaps you can use it to make this world a better place. But only a bit at a time I'm afraid.” Twilight nodded. “Well, thanks anyway. I'll keep an eye out for you tomorrow.” Tsyreim bowed. “And now it is my turn for thanks. As you put you reputation on the line simply to provide me with a way to move about town safely. That is not a debt I intend to leave lie unattended.” Twilight blushed. “Oh come on, it was nothing.” “You are a good pony, Miss Sparkle. But you're a terrible liar.” Tsyreim grinned, walking to the door, leaving her to paw at the floor awkwardly. Walking outside, he looked to the skies, and spoke again. “Farewell Twilight.” She stepped through the door as he began to canter away. “Hey! You forgot to call me 'Miss Sparkle'!” Tsyreim slowed and turned around with a chuckle. “Oh, but I thought you wanted to be called Twilight.” She rolled her eyes and closed the door. Tsyreim shaking his head with a grin as he galloped off back to the forest.