//------------------------------// // Explosive Evolution! Greymon // Story: The Black Digi-Knight // by jsk244 //------------------------------// “All right Koromon, let’s go over a few more things and we’re done. Lemonade?” “Kokom.” “Soda?” “Kokom.” “Good...Sandwiches?” “Kokom, kokom, eh...kokom.” “HLT, Daisy and Portabella. Good! Apples?” “Koorom.” I drawl in a certain twang. Cadance giggles. “Cookies?” “”Kokom. Mon o koro oro?” “No, you’ll ruin your appetite sweetie. We’ll be eating in less than an hour anyway.” “Hmph.” “Potato salad?” “Kokom.” I eye the container with some distrust. “Trust me, Waffle Fry makes excellent potato dishes. I kind of want some now…” She eyes the container as her stomach grumbles. “Heheheh.” “Oh hush. Now let’s see….blanket and basket?” Rolling my eyes, I wiggle my ears over the blanket I’m sitting on, and the basket right next to me. Once she realizes that, she lowers the small checklist in front of her with a sheepish grin. “Okay, maybe I don’t need the checklist for everything. Twilight must be rubbing off on me...oh, uh, but don’t tell her I said that.” I stick my tongue out and together we laugh. I win her over for an apple just before we depart, and I enjoy the crisp flavor of my snack as we walk the halls of the castle. The day was a bright and optimistic one for our picnic, with the castle much calmer after the clamour yesterday. There were still guards in every nook, but none of the madness or sudden inspections a security sweep caused. Stares and suspicion follow me as we descend to the first floor, yet that too was tamer than yesterday. Celestia’s hopes were dashed in sending me off by popularity now, as while Cadance stops to talk with the occasional pony, my own efforts seem to improve the mood of their days. After all, how could you hate the cute blob nibbling on an apple and smiling with his big, blue eyes? To reach the Barracks quickly, we enter the back halls I recall from two nights ago. The training grounds could be accessed via a side door located by the kitchen and other utility rooms of the stone halls. This also kept me out of the public eye better as well; Cadance didn’t trust the masses yet to me, only the castle occupants. I was also technically leashed now too so going into a crowd wouldn’t have been good. As she had promised I had a small little loop of soft rope around one ear tentacle that she had tied off around her barrel. I could travel a few feet from her in any direction, but that was all. Retrieving the leash in fact was what made my attendance mandatory to the picnic despite my first plan of leaving the couple to have a nice day alone. She didn’t want me getting any bright ideas about the windows again. In all honestly I doubt I would ever use that trick again, since it was too hazardous to my health. As I finish the last of my apple we reach the thick wooden door to the outside. My wandering thoughts somehow correlate this to the smooth ride I’ve enjoyed so far atop my companion. I’d never ridden horseback before, but I knew thanks to my databanks of knowledge that it was typically supposed to be a rough ride for beginners. Which I believe I was, given the ‘freshness’ of that knowledge. Though it was a small miracle I knew that about myself I suppose. I had not taken much time to really delve into my personal amnesia; with all of the knowledge I held I still had no idea who I was back before I was a Digimon. Tiny hints and clues to key me into hobbies and perhaps interests, but the core, the family and daily life, was too occluded. So far I had simply not had the time beyond my quest to retrieve my armor to think about it all. With my forced break time, perhaps now I could do so. Spend some days and nights pondering the few clues I had, and find at least a name, or occupation, that my former human self had. Was it wrong to not feel enthusiastic about that as someone with amnesia should? The crisp afternoon air of fall was a pleasant contrast to Cadance’s warmth as we walked along the path to the barracks. Over the far castle walls the hustle and bustle of Canterlot City could be heard, mingling with the wildlife and shouts coming from ahead. The guards were no doubt training and exercising as was their regime, perhaps spurred on more today by grumpy superiors after the break-in my alter ego had orchestrated. Even though Shining Armor was off it wouldn’t surprise me either that he might be out jogging or speaking to the troops. Indeed, as we approach one voice began to stand out over the others, the words muffled but clearly loud and barking. But that didn’t sound like Shining Armor, and there were no chorus of replies either. In fact, I think someone was arguing with someone else, perhaps inside the barracks. But who could possibly have such lung power like- “Uh oh.” Cadance echoes my next thought. “I’d recognize that voice anywhere. Koromon, stay on my back okay? Don’t draw attention to yourself for a minute.” “Koro.” The barrack and training yard come into view, complete with several guards working all across it in various activities. There was a small firing range for unicorns to practice spell accuracy, a track for them to jog and PT in the center of, as well as a small outdoor communal food corner full of short lunch room tables and benches. While some guards were going about their business, the largest group of them by far were those standing outside the main barrack doorways. A collective bunch of stallions, mares, Day Guard, Night Guard, as well as unarmored and relatively young recruits for both. They were roughly grouped into their respective troops, standing on either side of the dirt path, and trading looks with one another between booming shouts that literally shook the walls and door. The words even this close were somewhat muffled, but clear cries of ‘insubordination’ and ‘disrespect’ were heard. Whoever was in there was getting a royal reaming, and clinical deafness. “Just what in Equestria is going on here?” Cadance calls out, making the entire clutter, herd? The entire herd of ponies all jumped and turned toward her. “Princess Cadance.” One armored stallion salutes. “Nothing ma’am, just a meeting between Captain Armor and Princess Luna.” “You call tha’ a meeting?” A bat pony mare, notably without armor, drawls in a british accent. “More like th’ poor bugger’s gettin’ ‘imself a new pair of ears fitted s’what that is.” “I’ll say. Princess Luna showed up here in a real fit. Looked like somepony stepped on her tail and walked off.” Snickers a second bat pony, the stallion garbed in armor sans helmet. “That is no way to address royalty!” Snaps a Day Guard, several of his comrades bristling at the more laidback demeanor the bat ponies had shown. “S’not like she ain’t our princess still luvs.” Says the same mare. “Tha’ don’t change ‘er being a right cunt to your Cap’ain.” The, obviously more uptight, Solar Guards were starting to look hostile, which was when Cadance steps in closer and stomps a hoof down. “That’s enough! Calm down everypony, or would you all like to do PT with me for the next several hours?” The guards all exchange glances between themselves and her. Though I couldn’t see her face, I knew she was raising an eyebrow dangerously as they hesitated. “Well?” “Sorry luv.” The bat mare apologizes. “That’s better, thank you. Now, who can tell me what the trouble is that Aunt...I mean, Princess Luna, is so upset over?” Another round of exchanged looks had an older mare, red mane slightly grey around the edges, walk up and salute. She has a slightly more bulky set of golden Day Guard armor, perhaps from when she first signed up and obviously well cared for. Also obvious was that she had more respect and yet less structure with her attitude toward royalty, given that she was looking Cadance in the eye with some warmth. “Princess.” “Oh, Lieutenant Shepard. It’s been awhile, how have you been?” Cadance greets warmly. “How’s your son doing?” “Doing well ma’am, thank you for asking, and same for Hammer Tong. He’s really improved - fixed up this old relic from the last scuffle I had.” She looks down at her chestplate fondly. “Colt’s doing his mom proud.” “I’m so glad to hear. Can you tell me what’s going on?” “Certainly. I didn’t see Princess Luna arrive myself, but I heard she made her way to the Captain’s office immediately upon arriving. When she found Lieutenant Bulwark at the desk instead of Captain Armor...she did not seem to take it well. She ordered that he be brought before her while kicking all of us out. We’ve been out here waiting ever since.” “What? Was something wrong with Iron Bulwark? He wasn’t sick, was he?” “No ma’am, not as far as I could tell. You can ask him yourself even - Iron’s on the track right now.” We both look over and I spy a stallion with grey fur and a brown mane running in slightly more ornate armor than the rest. Since Cadance follows his motions I can assume that’s Iron Bulwark, Shining’s second-in-command. “He’s been doing that ever since Princess Luna kicked him out.” “But if Iron’s fine, then why did she drag Shiny - uh, Captain Shining Armor into the barracks? We’re supposed to be enjoying a picnic together on his day off.” Shepard smirks. “Ah, young love. Well I don’t know how true it is Cadance, but if I had to guess? I don’t think Princess Luna cared for having to deal with ‘second best’ when she arrived. Her...viewpoints are a bit...odd.” “That’s why she’s so upset?” Cadance shouts in shock. “She’s used to an old system about how the guards work ma’am.” Calls out a bat pony from their sidelines. Unlike the others who’d spoken he had some air of duty about him and in his words. “Real traditional and way less structured than what we’re all used to. She ordered us all to revert to it once she took control of the Night Guard.” “That…” Cadance shakes her head. “She’s not even in control of the Day Guard! Why is she getting so bent out of shape - because nopony else uses a thousand year old, out of date system? That’s completely ridiculous!” It wasn’t until she stopped talking that I noticed something off about the air around us. It was too quiet; besides the clank of running armor and chirp of birds there was suddenly nothing filling the air. Such as the loud yelling and ranting of Princess Luna. Cadance, the guards and I all blink and look over to the barracks after realizing this, and a tense pause fills the air. “...” “...” “...” The doors slam open with enough force to actually blow a few ponies nearby back. Princess Luna storms out, eyes aglow, and plants her hooves squarely in the middle of the two guard packs and turns her glare on us all. “Who dares ridicule Our royal decision! Had We not warned thee of our wrath should you speaketh against Our Will?!” She barks, not quite the wall shaking boom of before but still we all cringe at its volume. Despite the less than stellar circumstances, I couldn’t help but speed up my perception some and take in her appearance. Although there were small differences between ponies in the show and real life, most ponies still resemble their more fictional counterpart. Some colors were more natural than pastel, or manes blended color bands instead of segmenting each. Some ponies had bigger chub on their stomachs and limbs, or had greater muscle definition depending on their fitness. Little things that never changed my ability to tell who they were with sometimes a quick glance at their Cutie Marks. But when I finally got a chance to see her, at least since the thousand year nap she ‘gifted’ me, I honestly thought for a second that this was not Princess Luna. The first thing was that she was very tall. Taller than Cadance, but not quite Celestia’s height, but also not far off from the latter. Most of it came from her long legs, which were toned with incredible muscle definition, far more than Celestia’s soft and supple curves. The second was her coat’s color, neither the light blue of her adolescent form or dark blue of the Luna I recall from Nightmare Night. Rather it was something so dark it looked almost purple. Her Cutie Mark was almost swallowed by it save for the crescent moon. Her mane and tail were not full of stars but more like the arm of the galaxy viewed on a crystal clear night sky. There were so many tiny points of light that I couldn’t begin to count them all during my sped up mental state, all clumped together so tightly it almost made her mane look white. It still waved in the ethereal wind like her sister, but the ‘border’ of it was almost non-existent so you could almost think it was blowing off as quickly as it generated. Her body was adorned with far more regalia than her solar sister too, more akin to bodyarmor as her neck harness expanded all across her chest and guarded the joints of her wings. Each hoof has a horseshoe on it, but they also were larger and stopped just below the knees with little layered plates covering the front. On top of her head, in front of a horn much longer and sharper than I recall, instead of a little tiara or crown she has a faceguard with the symbol of her moon atop it, the sides wrapping behind her ears and swinging down to border her lower jaw like two protruding tusks. Her eyes, once they stop glowing, settle into familiar eyes. Too familiar; they were as cat-like and wicked as I remember the Nightmare having, even if the color of them told me this was Luna instead. I could swear up and down that this wasn’t Princess Luna; this wasn’t the sister I recall from the series and certainly not someone who had been blasted by the Elements of Harmony. But none of the guards found her looks strange, if a bit intimidating going by how they were all shuffling and stepping back. She was definitely not Nightmare Moon either, but then, why did she have such an alien look? My brain slows down as her gaze sweeps over us. Her eyes almost dismiss us outright, before something makes her swivel back to stare at again. Her posture, having remained stiff and aggressive, seems to grow even more so before it relaxes. The silence of the yard grows heavy as the two royals stare at each other, one baffled and sheepish, the other almost unreadable. I’m tempted to reach out with my senses to understand why Luna is staring at my companion like that, before she shifts again and is now prim and proper. “Ah, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, your presence is...surprising.” She says, voice normal. “Have thou come to reprimand the guard for their negligence?” “I...what?” Cadance does not get what she means. I frown on her back, still just out of sight behind her mane and wings. “Um, no Auntie...I mean, no Princess Luna. I was actually on my way to have a lunch date with my coltfriend. We plan to have a picnic-” “You are courting one of the soldiers?” Luna’s head lifts a bit higher, her nose clearly raised. “Yes? Yes - Shining Armor actually.” Cadance tilts her head and then nods at the barrack behind her aunt. “He’s inside right?” “Hm, so your standards are at least respectable for your station.” Is the first reply. Every mare, stallion, and pink blob in the vicinity bristles at the slight. I’m not even sure what I am more angry for; should I feel greater anger for her disrespect toward the guards, or Cadance? “You will have to wait while We address the gross negligence of duty he has performed in his duty to the Crown. Come back as the sun declines for Our moon and perchance We may be finished at that time.” As Luna turns and begins walking back to the barrack doors, there was a shared glance between the guards as we all process this. Cadance voices her objection in a squawk that would have been amusing if not for the reason. “S-Sunset? W-What? H-How the hay - that will be hours from now! What in Equestria could Shiny have...possibly…” As she trails off I cough gently to catch her attention. She looks back to me, eye wide in confusion. I nod at her, gesturing to the guards with an ear tentacle. The princess looks around as well, getting a few quick nods from the ponies around her, especially Lieutenant Shepard. Things begin to click in her head as her face turns disbelieving. “Princess Luna?” The lunar diarch stops, head turning to look at her niece. “Are...are you serious?” “We are not a court jester Mi Amore, and We do not care to waste further time with idle banter and wasteful chatter.” She tries to walk on again. “You can’t just yell at my - at Captain Armor because he took a day off! He was running on fumes after being awake for more than twenty-four hours. Letting Lieutenant Bulkwark handle the Day Guard while he recovers is perfectly within his-” “Tis the duty of the Royal Guard to follow Our orders to the letter until they are fulfilled. We commanded Captain Shining Armor to attend to the matter of the blacksmith's assault and burglary, not some underling of his." She cuts Cadance off, sniffing derisively . "Such insubordination would have resulted in more than a mere lashing of words from Us before our time away. He is lucky We are too busy to do otherwise - as it stands he is likely to quickly face demotion or dishonorable discharge from Our service." The shocks could not stop coming it seems. This latest bombshell was enough for every guard to gasp, some raising their voices in protest to the implication. Cadance was speechless in her shock, while I was growling in mine. Just what in the world was wrong with her? Did she believe Equestria was some kind of military dictatorship to dish out such outrageous punishments for a sensible action? Had times changed so much from a thousand years ago, or was she a brutal task master to her subordinates. Judging by the looks several of the bat guards had, I got the feeling whatever system she had placed on them was indeed very harsh. Some look forlorn but resigned, others uncertain to what to say or do. ”Silence.” Princess Luna commands, voice shaking the ground. The yard grows as quiet as a graveyard. She doesn’t say anything else, but as her head turns to look at everyone gathered here, the message is clear: Say Nothing. After a long moment of silence Princess Luna turns and flicks her tail in clear dismissal. "If that is all then We shall-" “No!" The dark alicorn turns back around and glares. Cadance moves closer to her aunt and stares up, no fear in her stance. A fire is now burning in her as she jabs a hoof up. “Princess Luna you are way out of line! Shining Armor did nothing wrong when he issued that order, in fact I’m sure he made sure everything involving it was by the book. There is not a single guard - Day or Night - who would ever say that he isn’t anything but the pinnacle of what everypony should strive to be in a Captain, a soldier, or a stallion of honor! In addition, the pony responsible for him even taking a day of is not him, but ME. In fact you could even say I ordered him to rest after I saw just how exhausted he was!” Princess Luna, in reply, flared her wings out in aggression and stomped a hoof. "And what gave thee the right to overrule Our orders?" She demands angrily. "You forget thyself dear niece - We are the rulers of this land, not you! Your title-" “That is enough!” Comes a surprising voice, cutting through the building argument like a hot knife. Lieutenant Shepard marches up to the two royals, stamps her hooves down, and shakes her head with a loud snort. “I can’t believe I’m hearing this, and certainly not from a supposed princess!” “You-!” Luna glares, but is cut off by, of all things, a hoof. Shoved right into her mouth, the earth pony easily cuts off the diarchs words and instantly gains my eternal approval. The action leaves Luna speechless even after the hoof is removed. “Are you done whining like the spoiled child you’re acting as?” Shepard’s biting words further slaps the princess in the face. “Because believe it or not, princess, but everything Captain Armor did is in fact perfectly within his rights and responsibilities. Both to himself and his troops - no leader should be so disabled by his own mind and body as to hinder more than help any duty. The last time I saw the Captain it was when I was dragging his well-sculpted butt into bed for some much needed rest.” She turns, winking at the blushing Cadance. “You’ve got a cute little stallion there hun.” “I, ah, thank you?” I snicker, earning a nudge from a wing. “You might have command over the Night Guard - and the Royal Guard as a whole during war times and other military maneuvers - but Captain Armor and his own troops are the primary force of Her Majesty Princess Celestia. While this may be a joint operation by both wings of the Guard, both are still controlled with their own system of command and subordinates. Therefore, while you maybe be ‘upset’ at his choice of actions, that does not mean you get to come down here and harass our Lieutenant and Captain. If there is anypony you should be talking to - and I say that term loosely considering I’m nearly deaf in one ear from your hollering - then it’s your own damn sister.” There was a pause. “Ma’am.” Lieutenant ‘Brass Balls’ Shepard salutes. Not a trace of sarcasm or sass is in the motion. All eyes slowly turn toward the larger mare in this face-off. Anger, rage, hatred and more boil off of Princess Luna after that dressing down by the Lieutenant. The feel of magic is all but suffocating around her. Her face is screwed up in white-hot fury, her eyes close to glowing again and her horn seems to be sparking. Yet Shepard stares at the furious alicorn with all the calm and poise a veteran like her has surely gathered over her many years of service. Everyone is looking at her in awe, fear, and some worship. Cadance bites her lip in worry but she obviously agrees with everything said, even moving over some to stand besides Shepard to show her support. On her back, I brace myself to act in defense of both mares if I have to. A part of me even thinks Digivolving was perfectly fine to do in this instance, and certainly if it meant protecting them then screw my secrecy. Another part whispers that I would get incredible support from the guards by stepping up to defend Shepard and Cadance that way too, perhaps enough to wave the assault and theft charge... Magic starts to build up in her horn...and then in a flash of light she is gone. A split second later there is a crack of displaced air to show just how powerful that teleport was, and some smoke wafts from a scorch mark on the ground. While grateful that the obviously darker moon alicorn was at least somewhat non-homicidal, her entire attitude and reactions were disturbing on countless levels. I could only hope that by the time Nightmare Night rolls around that most of this would be gone or at least put aside. Perhaps the Elements of Harmony had more like opened her mind instead of washed it all away. She obviously needed Twilight Sparkle’s friendship and lessons on how to get along with ponies in the modern era. I shudder to think what might happen if she did not go down to Ponyville. “...Well, glad to know my armor’s not about to get scratched up again so soon.” Is the first thing out of Lieutenant Shepard’s mouth. “This old mare has seen just about enough action in this relic for a lifetime.” “She’s still so...cold.” Cadance murmurs sadly. “If you ask me she needs more than a bunch of magical artifacts and friendship. She has far too many problems in that head of hers.” Shepard shakes her head. “But who would ever say that Her Majesty’s sister is mental? Luna did seem fine for the first weeks or so. Then again she was a total recluse that whole time.” “Thank you for standing up to her. I just don’t know how to deal with her sometimes.” “Heh, if we’re being honest hun, then I don’t really know either.” She shifts her shoulders, sighing happily as a joint cracks. “I’m just an old mare looking to retire pretty soon. Maybe get on with being that sweet grandma who spoils her grandchildren rotten with sweets and gifts.” “Seriously?” Cadance looks at her in surprise, before he face droops in sadness. “Oh...yes I-I suppose it has been a few years since…” “Since a shy, scared little filly with a horn and wings was carried in?” Shepard gives Cadance a knowing look. “I’m really jealous of your good looks sweetie. I certainly wish I could look as you do at our age.” “Shepard…” “How many has it been anyway? Must be at least forty - I was about your age when you arrived to the castle.” The elder mare chuckles. “It will be forty-two actually, n-next spring.” “No kidding? Sheesh…definitely time to retire then.” Shepard looks up to the sky. “Maybe that’s why I gave her a piece of my mind. Not like she can do much to me after all if I’m already heading out the door. Hammer Tongs shouldn’t have his work scuffed up anyhow.” She looks back down to Cadance. “Shame you’re already attached - my colt’s always been a sucker for a mare with class and sass.” “Shepard!” “Haha...relax Princess, I only tease the alicorns I love and care for.” Wrapping one arm around my companion's neck, she drags her into a hug before looking around at me. “And who’s this cute little thing? Surely not the ‘nasty monster’ I’ve heard about around the castle? I thought you were supposed to have ‘big, gnashing teeth’ there cutie.” “Kor.” Confident in her integrity, I playfully flash her a great big smile, which gets a wide-eyed look but a chuckle as well. “Well heck, guess some of it was true after all. But you wouldn’t harm a little old lady like me now, would you?” I chuckle back at her. “You’re alright in my books squirt.” “Koromon.” “That your name?” I nod. “Cute. Now let’s say we get these two lovebirds moving huh?” Nodding again, I smile as Lieutenant Shepard guides the slightly flustered Cadance over to the doors of the barrack. A few guards have already gone inside to check on Shining Armor, who I can now see sitting against one of the inside pillars. He is holding his head as if been struck, and shows little reaction to some ponies around him. Two unicorns are casting magic at him, specifically his ears, and another is laying on the ground talking softly as they run a medical examination. As Cadance steps up to her boyfriend, he lifts his head slowly and I can see that his eyes are slightly dilated. “C-Cady?” He stutters, voice off and somewhat slurred. “W-Wut are you...oh gosh, t-t-the picnic, I…” “He’s in pretty bad shape Lieutenant.” One of the medics comment. “Nothing a bit of magic can’t fix, but he’s gonna have a nasty headache for quite some time. I definitely say he needs some time off - ironic, considering everything.” “Well gee, thank Celestia for that.” Shepard snarks. “Certainly not Princess Luna that’s for damn sure. Get him on his hooves at least gentlecolts - Cadance here can handle her stallion for the rest of the day and theresome.” They nod, magic glowing brighter, and Shining’s face slowly relaxes. “Oh, wow, thank you guys. I - ow!” He winces. “Careful sir, you’re not in any shape to rush things.” Another medic chides. “Take it slow - both with walking and any kind of loud noises. We put everything back but your balance is going to be shot for the rest of the day at least. And you definitely should not deal with anything loud or obnoxious - again.” Several of us gathered here snort. “Thank you.” Rolling his shoulders, Shining Armor stands and looks at Cadance. A warm smile covers his face. “Guess that picnic is just what the doc ordered. Sorry I don’t have anything to bring, I uh…” “Don’t worry Shiny, I brought enough for both of us and Koromon.” Cadance says, finally lifting the basket just behind me to show it to him. Shining leans over some to stare at me on her back, but I just smile and wave. He smiles back to my surprise. “Koromon too huh? Well okay then, but no funny business young lady.” “Koro.” I roll my eyes. Shepard chuckles next to me. “Well if that’s all, I’ll go retrieve Iron from the track and stick him behind the desk again. You two have a nice time together okay?” Saluting her officer, she gives Cadance one more hug before trotting off to the track and field. Shining walks over to Cadance, leaning a bit into her, and together they set off for a much quieter and isolated part of the castle grounds. Myself coming along as well, of course. An hour passes in peace between the three of us, the turmoil back at the barracks slowly fading from our minds. Shining Armor did have the occasional throbbing headache, but Cadance was more than happy to assist with that. A light touch of magic and amazing massage skills for a pair of hooves took care of most of it. Getting a nice little treat like that from his girlfriend certainly helped too. The food was a delight as I’d sampled before, and by keeping our voices low we could soak in some of the natural beauty of the day during the pauses. I had taken a spot under one of the nearby trees after enjoying my lunch. My biggest thought mainly being whether to nap or to cloud gaze. The lovey-dovey couple were still on the blanket cuddled up to one another, and were talking in soft whispers I didn’t let myself listen in on. Occasionally Cadance would look over at me, to make sure I was staying put, and Shining might look as well. He and I seem to at least be amicable today with one another. In fact, speaking of the captain, he was coming over to me now. Cadance had just left to use the little girls room, so for now it was just the two of us. “Hey uh...Koromon.” He says softly. “Look, I know I didn’t exactly meet you under the best circumstances. You actually seem pretty polite...for a uh...blob...monster?” I huff in amusement. “Ko komoro O ro.” “Right, yeah.” He rubs the back of his head sheepishly. “You seem to really care for Cady, and you must understand me if you can talk like that. Err, this would be a lot easier if you actually spoke Equish.” “Ko?” Looking around the small area we were in, Shining crouches down closer to me and starts to really whisper. “I know this is pretty silly to ask, but could you do me a favor? I was actually busy getting something special for Cadance when Princess Luna showed up. I remember putting it in the office to keep safe, before…” He rubs one ear in phantom pain from the event. “Well yeah, all of that. Do you think you could go get it for me?” “Mo?” I gesture with an ear tentacle at myself. This was a surprising gesture of trust and goodwill for someone looking to lock me up last night. Cadance must have talked to him some while I was zoning out. “Well I don’t want to head back to the Barrack myself. Cadance wouldn’t approve, and I’m pretty sure both of my Lieutenants will tan my hide if they see me again so soon. Seriously, you met Lieutenant Shepard right?” Shining shivers dramatically, and we both laugh. “So can you?” “Koro, mor…” I look at the rope tied around the trunk of the tree I was by. “No problem girl - I’ll think of something to assure Cadance.” His horn lights up with magic and undoes the knot holding me. As I shake the tentacle a bit, he says, “Just go to my office at the back of the barracks and bring me the small black box? Got it? A small black box, about as big as my hoof.” I nod and hop off, making haste so as to avoid Cadance just in case she arrives back soon. No ponies are on the path as I make my way back over, and the sound of training soldiers fills the air again. We had actually taken some effort to move almost to the opposite end of the castle, but without having to move slow for Shining’s sake the time was cut down significantly. I also could stop holding back some on my skill; since absorbing the Chestplate I had noticed a boost in my overall strength even as Koromon. I could bounce higher, lift heavier objects, and my acid, although untested, was likely deadlier too. That meant I was clearing several feet in a single leap, each done quickly with little pause. It actually felt nice, so I was sad to tone it down again once the barrack was back in view. Iron Bulwark and Shepard were both outside by the track, along with all of the ponies who had been standing outside listening in. My guess was they were disciplining them for being a bunch of nosy eavesdroppers. I leave them to it and slip into the main room of the barracks, which I find deserted and quite spacious. The inside of the barracks was mainly a series of bunk beds by the walls, with a few tables set between support pillars where I could see things like cards and armor polish. A few trunks and bags rested near the foot of the beds, labeled for which cadet or guard rested there. Overall quite bland, and continued to be as I moved down the line to the back. On the right was a large opening to the segmented showers, with left for stallions and right for mares. To the left, and looking a bit squeezed in, was the commanding officer's quarters. Or rather just his office; Shining Armor rested in the castle due to being an officer, about a floor up from Cadance’s level in fact. The door was simply adorned with a name plate and when I tried the handle, it turned easily in my grip. Like the main room it was fairly spartan; nothing but a desk, some cabinets and chairs were in here. I could see a picture angled just enough to show off an older stallion saluting a younger Shining Armor on the desk, right beside one of Cadance playing with a foal Twilight Sparkle. I smile at the pictures, then focus on finding that box. Which was actually on the top of the desk in plain sight. With a little note under it. Hopping up to it, I pull the note out and read it aloud. “Good luck Captain - Iron Bulwark. Knock her socks off stud - Shepard.” Well, if I’m not mistaken by the box itself, then it looks like this is indeed going to be a great day. To be sure, and being a little curious, I slowly pry it open, seeing the glimmering ring inside. It certainly looks like a nice choice, although not big enough to fit over a hoof. Maybe they use horn rings for wedding bands, at least if a unicorn. Still, good on you Shining Armor. I guess that means we’ll have the wedding sometime in the spring then next year. From what I recall of the first three seasons, that would probably put the Crystal Empire appearing sometime in the summer perhaps. This was going to be a very busy time soon for Twilight and her friends. Thank goodness I wouldn’t be involved with most, if any, of it. I don’t want to end up causing issues with her destiny, or heaven forbid, somehow prevent it. Maybe I could leave Equestria before that just to be sure. But, that would require I make some headway on finding my armor. Would I actually manage that? Celestia probably was starting to scramble, hiding them away in far off places. What if I never do find them all? Would I have to spend the rest of my life as a simple pet? What if I reveal myself too early and that leads me to being turned back to stone? I can’t just stick around; I have to move! But where? Dammit this is driving me nuts! I can’t just keep doubting...myself... … Wait a minute…something’s definitely not right… Putting down the wedding ring, I focus on my thoughts and clamp down on my emotions. Something was tugging at my worries and doubts, amplifying it into pointless rapid dribble. The only times I’ve experienced emotions like this before was when I found my Shield, and my Chestplate. That should mean a piece of my armor was nearby. In the barracks? No, in this office if I had to guess. I pan around the room to try and see what I missed the first time around, but there doesn’t appear to be anything on the desk or cabinets, nor the floor or under me. Frowning, I focus on my internal radar for the pieces, look up above the doorway, then turn around to behind the captain’s chair. A set of empty eyes in a black, metal skull stare back at me. “Interesting.” That was definitely my Helmet. What was a piece of my armor doing here, being used as a simple decorative ornament? Perhaps it was the trick of hiding in plain sight; the princess could have placed it here as a ‘reward’ perhaps for their efforts in trying to stop me a thousand years ago. Or whatever the original office for the guard captain was, transferred over the millennia from room to room. It made me wonder if I was the only one feeling the aura effects of my armor. Tempered Blade’s anger issues might perhaps be explained by it seeping into him over time. The Shield was in a location isolated from most, so it would not have affected anyone. This helmet however, with its doubts and worries, could have been manipulating Captain’s for years. What kind of outcomes had been orchestrated by its presence? I would have to see about finding out later. For now I needed to retrieve it and stow it away. Given its spot the theft might actually be overlooked for a while. It was too high for most ponies to look at it casually, and Shining Armor was not going to be back in the office for a few days. Iron Bulwark seemed to prefer staying outside as well. To reach it however I would need to Digivolve, and then came the worry about actually contacting it. My last two retrievals had resulted in me Digivolving to the next level instantly, which would definitely not be inconspicuous in this small room. Perhaps I could just take it down and store it as data without integrating it first. I achieved the same with the other pieces after obtaining them; the Helmet could likely be installed but not ‘run’ upon finishing. Or perhaps I could leave it here? No, that would give Celestia time to retrieve it for her own reasons. I had to do it now. “Digivolve.” I mutter, slotting the Chestplate in. In a flash of light I turn into BlackAgumon, and reach out with my long arms and new height to try and grab it. I still fall short unfortunately. “Tsk, alright then, I guess-” “Halt!” “Fuck.” Turning around, I see a single guard standing in the doorway. He must have come into the barracks and noticed the ajar door. Maybe the flash as well when I Digivolved; hopefully he did not see me turn from Koromon into this form. “Well, I suppose this was inevitable considering everything.” “D-D-Don’t you mu-mu-move a muscle, m-monster!” He stutters. I raise an eyebrow at that. Perhaps he was new? “Yu-yu-you’re under arrest!” “Right, well okay then. What’s your name kid?” “Private Flash Sentry! Wait, why am I answering you?” “At least you’re not stuttering this time.” “Sh-Shut up! Get down from there and keep your c-claws where I can see them!” “So much for that.” That name sounded familiar. Ignoring his orders I tap a claw to my chin and look him over. Rather basic armor, clearly well polished so definitely a new guy forced to keep himself spic and span. Private, which means he’s at the bottom of the ranks. That orange fur and blue mane sticking out however was the biggest tell, and I recall it for certain once I notice the wings he has as a pegasus. “Oh, it’s you. The teenage high school love interest.” “What?” He looks baffled, and I take the moment to hop off the desk in front of him. The poor guy actually yelps and stumbles back, dropping the sword he’d been holding. We look down as it clatters against the stone floor, before staring at each other again once it finishes bouncing. “...Oh Celestia.” “Look, I’ll keep it simple for you Flash. I’m here for the helmet up there…” I jerk a claw back toward it. “Not you or anyone else outside. If you keep quiet, turn and leave, then nothing has to happen. No attacking, no fighting, no getting your butt and several others handed to you. Because while I’m not looking to brawl, I will wipe the floor with you all. Understood?” He gulps, eyes darting around frantically. His mouth slowly starts to open as a hoof lifts to step back. Seeing the reaction, my eyes narrow. “The other option is you do something incredibly stupid - like call for help - and I knock you out. Hard. Then I will have no choice but to make this a bad day for everyone. Considering you had Princess Airhorn here earlier, I don’t think anyone wants a bad day. Do you?” There is a pause as Flash Sentry weighs my words over whatever moral fiber he has. And probably the desire to keep hearing things as well. “...I can’t let you leave.” “Well, I’m glad we could talk civilly for a moment then.” I nod, understanding. He nods as well, and then shouts, “HELP!” Faster than the eye can blink, I leap forward and slam a fist into his head, denting the armor and sending him flying back. As he crashes into a few bunk beds and lands unconscious, I can hear the guards outside scrambling to rush toward the barracks. Kicking the sword out of the doorway, I slam it shut and wedge the desk and cabinets over it to buy some time before I’m swarmed. The barrack doors slam open on the other side of my barricade, and within ten seconds something slams hard into the office door. My makeshift defense holds, but I hear more and more voices growing louder and nearer. “I hate this pattern I seem to be developing.” I mutter angrily, turning and slamming into the far wall. The Helmet rattles a bit but doesn’t fall, so I wind up for another hit. “Find some armor, and get into a fight. This is just the second one but I can definitely tell…” I hit the wall again, cracking it. “That this will be far too…” A third slam sees the Helmet finally rattle itself off the hook it was on. I reach up and grab it before it hits me. “Common for me.” Closing my eyes, I take in the data and let it wash over me. As my body begins to grow and elongate, my deepening voice bellows out the next stage of my evolution. “BlackAgumon, Digivolve to…BlackGreymon!” I do not remember the next few minutes of my life. When I finally come to, I find myself at the tail end of a very large, and obviously one-sided, battle. Solar and Lunar Guards are scattered all across the area around me, numerous scorch marks and craters pocketing the land. I can feel the burning of a fireball in my mouth just before letting it loose on a final pocket of them, which detonates and send them all flying. The barrack is half ruined to my left, a noticeable hole around where the office would be where I burst out to freedom. The lunch tables are on fire as are some of the trees, while around my massive feet are several gouges and swaths of ruined land from where I’ve stomped and swept my tail around. My skin is an almost sickly dark blue with red stripes, the sign of my Champion level Virus branch. At approximately twenty feet tall or more, I was the biggest thing still standing on the battleground, with one very banged up Lieutenant Shepard being the only thing else still on its hooves. I look down at her and see that she has some blood running down her face. Otherwise, she appears to be...fine. My eyes sweep over the littered bodies and I see them all moving with breath as well. Even when lost in whatever evolution haze I had this time it seems I managed to hold back. You couldn’t tell at first glance, especially since I had a pegasus in one hand with a claw close to stabbing an eye out. “Hah...you...are one really tough dragon…” Shepard pants out. I release the guard in my clutch, listening as he hits the ground with a grunt. I lift my head up to see if anyone else was coming to this fight; with the damage and proximity, surely Princess Celestia or Luna would be here soon. But oddly it seemed like not the case. “What’s wrong? Had your fill of blood today? I’m not so easily - ah!” Shepard winces as something stabs into her side. I tilt my head slightly to see what’s wrong, and notice a piece of shrapnel coming out of a joint in her armor. She must have gained it either when I first burst out, or when I swept my tail through the debris one time. “Ghk! Dammit, I’m definitely going to retire with this one.” She tries to touch the shrapnel, but the pain is too much for her and she falls to her front knees. “You shouldn’t pull that out without medical help.” I rumble, voice deep and gravelly. She looks up at me in surprise for that, to which I shake my head. “Sorry about this, but you could say I...lost my head for a moment.” “The hay you did!” She spits out some blood. “Over a hundred guards wiped out, and you try to say ‘sorry’ for it?! You ‘lost your head’ for a minute?! Since when the heck could you even talk?” I just shrug, reaching down and grabbing her carefully. She struggles in my grasp, but I hold her tight enough that she can’t escape, or cause further injury to herself. “You’re obviously a damn good soldier, standing after all of that, and have a spirit of fire. You have my respect, Lieutenant.” With that I flick her on the head with my other hand, knocking her out. Setting her carefully onto a bed lying outside the barracks now, I turn toward the office and assess the damage. “Hmmm…” As I look, a giant pink bubble begins to form around me, cutting me off from the outside world. Turning slowly in place, I finally see one of the expected ponies I had in mind making his way over to me. Shining Armor, face set in anger yet controlled, completes his barrier around me and stands tall among his fallen men. My tail sways some, knocking a portion of wall down. The action angers him further and I can’t help but sigh internally. This was definitely turning into a bad day for all of us. “You’re not getting away this time.” Shining declares. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I try. “Don’t try to deceive me beast, I’d recognize who you are no matter how much bigger and nastier you look! You’re the Black Knight - the same monster who attacked me down in the Armory two nights ago.” “I don’t know about this supposed ‘Black Knight’, but congratulations. You’re too little, too late again.” I growl and let some flames flicker behind my fangs. “For the Captain of the Guard, you’re certainly lacking in doing your job.” “You-!” Shining cuts off as we hear the beat of wings from above. We turn our heads, and together rear back in shock as Cadance lands just in front of him, horn lit and wings flared. “Cadance! What are you doing here, I told you to go back inside and-” “I’m not just about to let you fight this thing on your own Shining Armor.” She interrupts, stomping and digging a hoof into the ground. “I’ve let everypony know, but we’re the only ponies with the strength to hold it back for now!” “Oh? So you think you can stop me from getting away?” I ask, leaning down closer to her. The barriers hums a little at my proximity, but I don’t touch it. “You’ll have to try harder than this Princess.” “I’m not Captain of the Day Guard for nothing. My shields are some of the best in all of Equestria.” Shining boasts, chest puffing out a bit even. I roll my eyes at that, but notice that Cadance also is rolling hers. She notices my stare when she focuses back on me. “What?” “I don’t suppose we’ve had the pleasure of meeting face-to-face like this, have we? It’s nice to see you, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” I bow a little as she frowns. “You’re actually my favorite alicorn.” “...” She keeps giving me a funny look. I was being honest you know. "Oh come now, it's not like I hold any grudge against you. The least you can do is be polite as long as I am." "You call destroying the barracks and attacking over a hundred guards being polite?" "In my defense they’re all simply knocked out, give or take a few more...serious injuries." "You’re not helping your case at all, Black Knight. Don’t be surprised - I recognize enough of your looks from what Shining told me about his last encounter with you. You might be bigger, and uglier, but you’re not going to scare me." I sigh loudly. "Ponies. Just because I am not like you, it's so easy to assume I'm some kind of monster isn't it? That I must be some evil savage out to kill and destroy everything. I actually gave the guard that discovered me first ample time to just let me leave. If he had simply listened…” “Like I said, you’re not exactly helping your case.” Cadance sweeps a hoof toward the general area. Shining steps up to her, whispering something at her, but she shushes him. “Just what is the point in all of this? Why are you terrorizing Canterlot - to get revenge? To kill my aunts and take over Equestria?” My lips curl up into a smile. "Ah, at last, somepony willing to ask questions. I knew I liked you my dear." Her muzzle scrunches up some in discomfort over my compliment. "Believe it or not, this entire thing has just been one great big misunderstanding." My voice dips a little lower in anger. "One that cost me a great deal of time, but a mistake nevertheless. I did not attack that village one-thousand years ago - not with dragon or by myself. I did step in to kill it, but left almost immediately afterwards. I returned to clean up the mess, and when I returned I was accosted by the uppity brat and her pack of loyal dogs." "Who?" "Princess Luna, of course." "That's not very nice!" Cadance scolds. Shining and I both give her a Look, and she dips her head down some and adds, “Well...it isn’t…” I chuckle. "I never said I was nice. Just not a monster, nor evil. To continue - since it was only recently that I had...arrived in your country, I had no grasp of the language nor why I was being blamed for something clearly not my fault. I would hardly set a dragon on a village only to swoop in and kill it, now would I?" "Her Majesty told me that you must have lost control over your minion, so you killed it for disobeying and then left to leave everypony's guard down before you came back to attack." Shining answers, voice bitter and full of contempt. "Bet you weren't expecting Princess Luna to show up huh?" "No, but then again I expected to return to a still damaged town that I could offer my help to." I correct him, matching his tone. "Having Princess Moonbutt there wouldn't have mattered, if it wasn't for the fact that she had a contingent of guards with her and that they immediately tried to arrest me. I didn't appreciate having them try to poke me with their spears either. I defended myself, and then got dragged into a fight with her that lasted up until she fell to the Nightmare's influence." Shining scoffs. "And that's how I know you're lying! It was you who infected her with the Nightmare! You and your strange negative powers!" "What?!" Cadance looks over at him in shock. She didn’t know? But it had been in the newspaper after my escape got out. Then again I never have seen her read it much. "It's true - I heard it from Princess Celestia herself." Shining nods. "When she arrived, she saw the Black Knight fighting against her sister. But something was wrong, and Princess Luna was very angry and looked different from usual. She didn't think much about it at the time, since there was this scumbag to deal with-" I growl menacingly. "Watch your tongue." "But afterwards she didn't return to normal, and became even more distant than ever. Less than a week later, she declared Eternal Night would reign and finished turning into Nightmare Moon. She knew the minute it happened that he must have caused it." He finishes. Cadance looks between me and Shining Armor, her emotions and face in turmoil. I think I had been convincing her of the truth until Shining spoke up. I had to at least try to make her understand. “Amazing how easy it is to blame someone else for your faults, isn’t it? Princess Celestia left her own sister in her shadow long before that day. The seeds of anger and jealousy might have been fed by me, but I assure you, the Nightmare was in there long before I ever stepped foot in Equestria. She didn’t fall because of me, I was just made into the scapegoat!” "Liar!" Shining shouts. "You want proof?! Then let me educate you on what my powers allow me to do." Flexing my limbs, I raise them up for dramatic purpose and allow the negative powers rush out from inside of me. A black miasma begins to seep out of my dark blue scales and swirl on the ground at my feet, and directing it I latch onto several of the guards lying around. They were more than full of anger and fear at me, even while unconscious, and I pull it all out until nothing is left and bring it back inside of me. The miasma grows thicker, and I feel my eyes pulse for a moment. From what I see in Cadance's reaction, they probably flashed red or something ominous like that. "It's true that I can wield negative energy to grow stronger." I growl and snarl, keeping a tight leash on all the anger flowing into me. I needed to stay in control this time. "But I can only take what is already there to take. I cannot make you feel those emotions - I am less a generator and more a battery, storing it all inside of me to use to make my moves faster, stronger, more destructive. So yes, I was drawing on Princess Luna that day, and I must say..." Here I flash my mouth of razor sharp fangs and serrated teeth. "It was a real feast." "...And you say you’re not a monster?" I look at the speaker slowly, letting the negative energy I was drawing on slowly peter out. Dropping my arms down to the side, I smile ruefully at her and look over to where the guards I had drawn from were lying. All of them were clearly in even more pain than before, the extraction having no doubt been painful because of how forceful I had been. Come to think of it, I remember Luna staggering a lot during our battle as well. But I had thought that was just because I was stealing from the Nightmare; I guess it's universal when done straight from the source. "How you can do that to somepony? Don't you see how much pain they're in?" Cadance asks, eyes locking onto my own. "And you were so happy to do it too. How can you be innocent of anything, if that's how you react to somepony's suffering!?" I don't answer immediately, and the yard grows silent. Shining, taking the lull in our conversation, finally uses a new spell to try and contain me. I let it happen; the giant cage he forms out of the bubble around me is sturdy and likely strong enough to actually hold me. But it won't stop me when I run. I've already spotted my escape plan from this encounter. Once it's complete, I crouch so I can get closer to eye level with her. Through the thick bars, she sees me do so and approaches slowly, not listening to Shining Armor as he tells her to stay back. "How indeed?" I finally say, musing out loud. I find myself unable to look away from her big, light purple eyes. She must feel the same way, because she's hardly blinked once. We are now so close that if not for the bars, I'm sure we could have touched hoof to muzzle. "I say I'm not nice, but innocent, and yet at the same time I show you just how cruel my powers are when used directly on your little ponies. I suppose I'm just full of contradictions, aren't I?" I chuckle in wry amusement. Cadance frowns. "But that's the thing Mi Amore..." I lean in until my horn sizzles against the magic. “Nothing is black and white - not for me, or you, or anything. It’s up to you to decide what’s true or not, just like it’s up to me to make my choices and decisions. I mean Equestria no harm, but I will fight, and steal, from your dear sunbutt aunt and her lunatic sister until I get my stuff back. She stole my armor, and stole my life from me. She blames me for crimes I never committed, and now look what that’s gotten us. If getting what I want requires me to act just like the Digimon I look like - to walk a dark path with darker energies - then so be it. That seems to be the curse of being BlackWarGreymon after all.” "What do you mean? What’s a Digimon, or Black War Greymon?" "...That, is a tale for another time.” I shake my head and stand back up. I’ve already spent too much time talking. Surely the reinforcements will arrive any moment now, and certainly I can hear something akin to a stampede coming down the path. “Which it would seem we’ve run out of for now. Until next we speak Princess Cadance.” “Over here!” Shining Armor shouts, Cadance turning to watch. “I’ve got the monster trapped!” “Do you? Mega Backfire!” Inhaling, I use the gathered negative energy to boost the effect of my impromptu attack. Just like the night in the armory, I abort a fireball halfway through and produce a massive cloud of soot to clog up the area. Boosted by the extra energy, it becomes a dense fog that’s taller than I am and filters to every corner of the castle grounds. Shining and Cadance begin coughing first, which leaves me to easily enact the second part of my escape plan. After all, the cage might have been stronger, but it had lots and lots of holes in it. Holes big enough in fact for a little pink blob to slip through. Un-equipping my armor, I bounce out of the shielded area and make my way over to the rubble of the office. I couldn’t see much myself but I had memorized its location in my head. Climbing up and over, I find a good spot to fake being trapped under, even snagging the black box on my way as I notice it. When the guards begin to finally dig out the barracks for anyone caught under the rubble, they will also find Cadance's pet and bring me to her. It will be easy to assume that, just as I was entering the office, the 'monster' arrived and knocked me aside. I would become the poor victim in this whole thing and nobody would be any wiser over my true identity. I was glad I thought of this or else who knows how tentative my disguise would be. But it would take some time, leaving me alone to think about that conversation, and fight, that I just had...and it was a lot to think about I feel. Hours later, late at night I was back in the room with Cadance. I had a little wrap of bandages around my head and she had fretted endlessly over me for a while. Obviously I wasn’t actually injured, but I let her worry and reassured her with hugs and obliging her tender care. We were sitting together now, listening to Shining Armor, as he told us most of the outcome from the battle. He was the only pony to actually inform us of anything despite Cadance trying for some time on her own. Like with Discord she’d been asked to go back to her room and remain inside, leaving her out of the loop over most of the happenings. Despite the fact that she had been there talking to me, that is the Black Knight, when reinforcements arrived. Thankfully Shining Armor didn’t see the same reason to not tell us, but he was obviously censoring most of his words and the details. “...which basically leaves us with just about everypony accounted for and safe.” He concludes. “Thank Celestia.” Cadance breathes a sigh of relief. “I was so worried. I mean, the Black Knight did say, but, it’s good to be sure.” “It’s a miracle if you ask me. Some of the reports say it fought like a mad beast at first. I don’t know what made it so chatty suddenly at the end, but at least Shepard didn’t have to fight it alone either.” “You didn’t mention Shepard. Is she alright? I thought I saw something...sticking out of her before I had to leave.” I close my eyes in regret over that. “She’s...fine. The doctors have patched her up as best they could considering the circumstances.” Shining sounds nervous. I look at him and notice that his eyes are not looking directly at Cadance anymore. “Shiny?” “It’s nothing sweetheart.” “What happened? You can’t lie to me about this! Shepard is…” Cadance bites her lip. “She’s an old friend.” Shining Armor looks at her, then sighs and hangs his head. “She has partial loss of motor function in her front left leg. That armor she wears is an older model - it’s much thicker and capable of taking a real beating. We don’t use it anymore since the guard wants to have more speed and mobility, but it’s probably what saved her leg completely from getting torn off. Wedged it into place, and…” “Why can’t the doctors fix it up completely? Isn’t there a surgery they could do?” He shakes his head, lifting his head more but still not staring her in the eye. “All the guards are being ordered to start a new hunt for the Black Knight effective immediately. All of the injured personnel at the barracks are included, since they were mostly just knocked out, so we were told to get them on their hooves and get them out there by...somepony higher up. The surgery would take too long - Lieutenant Shepard is needed right alongside me and Iron Bulwark to help coordinate the Day Guard’s search.” “But if they don’t fix it right away…” Cadance lifts a hoof to her mouth. “Oh, Shepard.” “Koromon…” I say sadly too. “She said herself that’s it okay. I think she’s going to use it as an excuse actually to retire soon - before the holidays at least.” Shining tries to reassure us. “She’s been talking about it a lot lately, but we all knew she wouldn’t until something gave out first ahead of her spirit. She’s always been loyal to the guard and the troops. Honestly, I’m surprised she wasn’t made Captain instead of me, she certainly has the skill and experience for it.” Cadance gets up and walks over to Shining, getting a hug from him as I scoot back some from the bed’s edge. I don’t think Cadance caught on to what Shining Armor was implying, but I believe I can see the truth of the matter. Shepard’s surgery wasn’t just denied because of some need for time and action. With the Day and Night Guard scrambling, authority over both halves were now allowed to both Royal Sisters until the search ended. Considering everything that happened earlier today, it wouldn’t surprise me if Princess Luna, petty and angry at the old soldier, had ruined her chance of making a full recovery. The magic here in Equestria did seem more able to handle injuries of all kinds, but some still needed deeper and careful handling. By citing the need for soldiers and time as an excuse, she canceled the surgery, ruining Shepard’s leg, and basically forcing her into retirement. My hatred for the lunar princess continues to grow, with Celestia not getting out of this scot free too. After all, she was not doing anyone a favor by letting her sister get away with these kind of things. When the time comes for our battle, and make no mistake, I’m sure there will be one now. But when that time comes, I will definitely save at least one punch for Lieutenant Shepard. A squeal of delight cuts me out of my thoughts, and I look back to Cadance and Shining Armor to see an amusing sight. Cadance is jumping in place, hooves wiggling happily as she chants ‘Yes! Yes! Yes!’ repeatedly. Shining, sitting up with his black box open, has a goofy smile on his face as well at the positive reply she was giving. It looks like he has just proposed to her, and now this makes them officially engaged. The weddings bells would soon ring, and with it, a new world of discovery and magic for the pair. I’m glad that at least one good thing can be scavenged from this terrible day. Especially something as important as the Royal Canterlot Wedding. It was good to see that for all of my interactions with this world, some things just never changed. In a dark corner of the castle, Princess Celestia steps up to an ornate pair of doors and gives a nod to the two guards on duty. They salute, and without pause open their mistresses door for her to enter through. Inside the flickering warm light of a dozen candles dot the chandelier hanging high above, bathing the bedroom in sharp shadows that dance and curl into eerier shapes. It is helped by the almost gothic design of most of the furniture; all of it was painted black with motifs carved into them depicting numerous creatures of the night. As always, the solar alicorn feels oddly out of place in the sanctum of her sister, but can hardly question her tastes. She herself much preferred a simpler commoner style in her own room, while Luna took it upon herself to dress it up in a style more fitting the royalty she was. If a bit tacky. "Luna? Do you have a moment?" Celestia asks the dark figure on the far side of the room. Princess Luna, hunched over an ornate desk, turns at the sound of her sister's voice and glares. "We thought We had instructed not to be disturbed." She says, voice loud and pointedly aimed at the guards outside. "Can you blame them for letting me come visit my sister?" Celestia rebukes gently, ignoring the quick scowl that flashes over the lunar alicorns face. "Come now Luna, I just wanted to see how you are doing before I head off to bed. It's been a very tiring day hasn't it?" "Would it have not been save for the incompetence of thine guard sister. Captain Shining Armor has twice slightest Us with his actions, and We-" "Shining Armor is not to be blamed for things outside of his control sister." Her sister interrupts firmly. “And Lieutenant Shepard?” "She might have been rude, but I have never once told the Solar Guard anything but to tell the truth, even if it's unpleasent. Honestly Luna - if Cadance hadn't told him to I would have myself. I don't need my best soldier running himself ragged with no sleep and chasing something as elusive as the Black Knight. I don't see why you were so against having Lieutenant Bulwark in charge for few hours - he is the second-in-command." Luna's face contorts into a displeased look, before she turns away and stares down at her desk again. "T'was not this way back before Our return sister." The words jab into Celestia’s heart. "Luna..." "Never mind Our words." Her tail flicking in agitation, the dark alicorn picks up a pen with her magic and starts writing something. The two of them stand in silence for a time. It always got this way whenever the big changes between now and before Luna's banishment came up. No matter what Celestia tried, there always seemed to be bitterness between them when she tried to bring her sister into the world of now. Luna seemingly clung to the old days, which was most notable in her form of addressing everypony, or how she expected things to be done by the old rules. Rules that had been made when Equestria was still a very dangerous and unstable land. "Is that all you would require of Us sister?" Luna's question snaps Celestia out of her thoughts, and she shakes her head. "No. Actually Luna, I was wondering if perhaps you'd like to attend a special holiday coming up." "Oh? And what pray tell is this event meant to celebrate?" Smiling, Princess Celestia decides to put on a teasing tone in hopes of enticing her sister's curiosity. She could remember all the wonderous adventures they had gone on in their youth after she or her sister found something that peaked their interest. "Well, I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise for you, but it is a holiday I'm sure you'll enjoy." "Hmm, what is it called?" Luna asks, ears flicking up. Celestia smiles at the old tell. "Well, it's called Nightmare Night nowadays-" Luna stiffens, which goes unnoticed by Celestia as she thinks back on the history behind the holiday. "But it's actually quite fun! I was thinking perhaps you could go down to Ponyville and visit Twilight Sparkle and her friends even. I'm sure they would love to show you around the village and invite you to all the festivities they no doubt have planned." "..." The subtle sound of grinding teeth fills the area around the desk. "We shall…consider it, dearest sister." "Wonderful! Oh I just know you'll love it Luna. It's practically made for you!" Trotting over, Celestia pulls the not much smaller alicorn into a hug and just as quickly turns to leave. "I'm sorry I can't visit longer, but there's a big diplomatic meeting I will have to deal with in the morning. You know how feisty the griffons can be. Good luck with the search and have a wonderful night Luna!" Staying quiet until the doors close, Princess Luna sits in the darkness of her room and stares blankly at the piece of parchment in front of her. Then, with a flick of cold blue magic, she shreds the paper and blows out all the candles in a fit of anger. Now completely in the dark, her eyes glow as the lone source of light. "Nightmare Night." She spits, a faint hiss in her voice. "As if We would ever consider celebrating such a foul thing! Your sick humor has grown worse over the years it would seem, dear sister." After some more paper shredding and fuming, Luna finally relights the candles and pulls out a new scroll to continue her work. All thoughts about Nightmare Night and her possible attendance are quickly and vehemently thrown out the window.