Stories in Stone, Luna's Royal Guard.

by TDR

Pebble Strewn Path [10 ]

Stories in Stone
Luna's Royal Guard
By TDR

Twilight waited nervously for the knock on her door that signaled her friends arrival. Fluttershy had been elated to find out that Princess Luna was allowing her to look over the history, well as elated as the timid pegasus got. She had come by a few days ago during Twilight's 'break' from her studies and practically run off with the book Twilight had been filling with what she saw.

Twilight was fine with that. She still was not feeling up to delving back into the memories the blade held. She was quite worried for her friend, while the pegasus could not experience the same things Twilight had with the scrying spell, the book had a rather detailed description of everything Twilight could put to paper. She had let Fluttershy borrow her copy of Platinum's song as well just to make sure her friend had everything.

She was now waiting for the pegasus to show up today to return her books and the record, quite expecting the sensitive mare to be a total mess when she got here. A faint tapping on the door signaled Fluttershy's arrival, normally Twilight would have missed such a soft knock , but she was expecting it today.

Twilight darted to the door expecting to find Fluttershy as big of, or close to, as big a wreck as she was.
The pale yellow pegasus however simply stood there looking as she always did, though with the added accompaniment of Angel bunny weighed down with the book.

“Fluttershy, are you all right?” Twilight asks looking down at the annoyed rabbit then back up to the rather serene face of her friend.

“Oh course, why wouldn’t I be?” Fluttershy asks.

Before Twilight could say anything else the annoyed rabbit belted her with the historic tome and then again with the copy of Supernatural's before hopping in followed by Fluttershy.

“Hello to you too Angel.” Twilight growls picking up the books with her magic.

“Oh I am sorry about that, Angel has not been the nicest as of late, but he did carry all these books back for me.” Fluttershy comments.

“It's fine … I don't mean to question it really Fluttershy, but I kinda expected you to be distraught or even stressed from reading this, but you seem fine. That makes me wonder if maybe I’m too sensitive, or my writing doesn’t convey as well as it should.” Twilight sighs “ maybe I should study that creative writing book series again.”

“Oh no, it did, that’s why Angel carried them back for me. The whole story is quite tragic and a great deal more violent than I expected it to be. Still most history tends to be far less glamorous then most legends and stories tell.” Fluttershy comments.“There is nothing wrong with your writing, it painted a very vivid picture.”

“What?” Twilight pauses looking at her friend.

“Oh it's the classic hero dilemma, you can die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain. Of course then there is also the test of a true hero. When one falls the real story begins when they try to climb back up. Though I am not sure that really counts here as that's mostly fictional heroes, though history has shown a few real ones like that.” Fluttershy continues on despite Twilight's stare. “ I mean for that time period, death and loss were common place with all the wars Equestria was forced into just to survive. Even before that for the longest time Ponies were considered a food source by the Dragons, Diamond Dogs, and Griffons, not to mention so many other predators. Only with the creations of the earth ponies the improvement of the magic of the unicorns and the skill of the pegasus did we manage to survive the dark ages before the Discordian war. There is very little about that time as well as most of what we know of the time before Princess Luna and Celestia is in little more than old legends some scattered notes and one or two books that were translated from other languages. Te time period between the first Dragon war and the War of Night is even more mysterious as there is even less information for a hundred year span. Oh dear I’m rambling again.”

Twilight blinks slowly, her ears perked at the pegasus history lesson. Fluttershy flaps her wings a bit floating over to pick up the copy of Supernaturals.

“ I'm sorry this is just so interesting and just what you have written is more history of that era than any one else aside from the Princesses have even seen. I can see why you are stuck though, especially with that last bit with Colonel Claymore. I don't think you needed to be that detailed there....” Fluttershy murmmers as Angel bounces another book off Twilight's head as if to drive home the point. “Spike did tell us you were depressed, which was why Pinkie Pie wouldn't leave you alone for a few days there. History is full of dark places like that, where those who should be above it do something dark or out of what should be their character in order to accomplish something, or in a time of great duress. But that doesn't mean that's what defines them , or even that it's their nature. This book sorta proves my point, and I never would have made the connection if not for your history book.”

Twilight looks at the copy of Supernaturals Fluttershy was holding.

“What does Supernaturals have to do with anything? Its a modern book. It was only written about thirty years ago.”Twilight asks.

“I suppose I have had it for a while, look at the author.”Fluttershy admits.

“It was written by Professor Lotus Blossom what does that have to do.......”

“Twilight for some one who seems to love books you do not read all of them do you read it again.”

Twilight looks back at the cover her ears flopping a bit at the soft scold from her friend.

“It says translated by Professor Lotus Blossom. I still don't see.......wait.... translated? From what ?”

Fluttershy flips it open to the back cover showing the reference sources.

“Translated and condensed from the original source material including the notes and books written by.... Queen Velkorn the First? WHAT!?” Twilight blinks.

“When I read what you had written, I knew I had seen the name before. Velkorn is responsible for nearly everything that was put into this book, and supposedly this was only based on the first volume of what she wrote. I talked with Nurse Redheart and found out that a great number of medical books have this same sort of note in them. It seems that most of pony medicine today has come from her, and the books she wrote. This information likely has saved countless lives throughout the history since they were written. Even with all you might see, and no matter how mean or cruel they might have done, they also did things like this. They were not bad ponies Twilight, at least not all the time.”

She sets the book down on the table and floats over picking up Angel before landing setting the bunny on her back. She looks to Twilight for a moment who was still staring at the pegasus,

“Umm. I'm running a bit late for my meeting with Rarity at the spa. You um...take care Twilight I do hope you continue, this was a very interesting read and will make a lovely conversation next time there’s a historical convention.”

“Thank you Fluttershy, have a good time. “Twilight shakes her head snapping out of it.

“Oh we usually do, oh no. I forgot your record, I'm sorry Twilight.”

“Don't worry about it just bring it next time Fluttershy”.

Twilight sighs as her friend leaves lifting Supernaturals and sliding it back into its space on the shelf. This was a interesting turn of events. She had never even considered looking for the names of the Five Beasts in any source material other than historical. Fluttershy was right too, just because she couldn't handle the sudden one two punch of depression and revulsion that the last chapters hit her with, didn't mean she should stop. If she could not handle pushing past this little bit how would she be able to handle the rise of Nightmare Moon? She just needed to steel herself better. She was Twilight mother bucking Sparkle, she dealt with Nightmare Moon, Parasprites swarms and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She could handle this.

It didn't take her long to set up the sword and spell, she was getting better at casting it every time she used it.

She exhaled deeply as the now familiar flare of magic took hold, pulling her to the blade.

“You wished to see me Princes Celestia?” Jer'rahd asks with a sharp salute.

“Yes, come in General Kaisur, hehe it's going to take me a little time to get used to saying that. So nice to see you doing well again. It seems every time I see you, you are suffering some sort horrific injury or another, you truly should take better care of yourself. “ Celestia smiles. “ How long have you been in the hospital this time five, six months? You still have a few bandages on you as well I see, still rather quick recovery given what I have heard your injuries were, I suppose Queen Velkorn had something to do with that. So how is Bleu?Staying out of trouble I hope? It was a little difficult to get her classified as a hatching again for you to have her as a familiar, but given the situation I believe it was the right call.”

“ I appreciate the trouble you have gone through for her sake Princess Celestia. Though I cannot claim she has been keeping out of trouble in all honesty.”Jer'rahd states sharply.

“Oh do relax , I don't bite. Lulu has been known to however so watch yourself there. At any rate I plan to speak with all of you eventually about the mission, though this is more of a social visit than anything serious. Tell me do you happen to play chess? I know not ever ponies cutie mark means what it seems to, but still with a black knight on your flank it is a valid question.“

“I do play, though it has been a while since I last did so. My Grandfather taught me as a foal and allowed me to enter a couple of competitions. I never won any however it was just fun to play.” Jer'rahd states.

“Well don't worry I am not that good either, Lulu always beats me. Still it is always interesting to play others. I was given a new board as a gift a bit back and I have not had much chance to break in yet. Please have a seat.” Celestia gestures to the cushions across the table from her as she floats over an oak box from the corner.

“Of course Princess.”Jer'rahd stammers, watching as the Princess of the Sun set up the game.

The board was a work of art. Gold and silver framed the board that was made of some sort of almost ruby colored wood, each corner was marked with the symbol of Celestia's sun or Luna's moon. Each square was carved of pearl or dark sapphire. The pieces themselves were carved of pearl and onyx The queens looking very much like Luna and Celestia. Jer'rahd flinched a little at the sight of it ,the whole set looked like it cost more bits then he would ever see in his lifetime.

The Princess was of course playing the white pieces representing the sun. He smiled slightly, some what amused that he would be representing Princess Luna on a chess battle field as well. Celestia made her first move and once they started the only sound was the light clack of the magically moved pieces shifting about the board for a few dozen moves.

“Check.” Jer'rahd states.

“Ooh not bad, Lulu usually gets me with something sneaky like that. Hmm well lets do this.” Celestia mummers.

She shifts her rook to take out the threatening piece allowing him to bring his queen across with his rook.

“Check mate Princess.” Jer'rahd utters, not exactly sure if he should feel proud of this win or not.

“Oh so it is … ah well you won that one feel free to ask a question.”Princess Celestia comments off hoofedly.

“Princess? “

“Oh yes, I suppose you wouldn't know. This is something my sister and I came up with a while back. During any sort of game we play the winner can ask something of the loser. While it usually devolves into a game of truth or dare between the two of us, several nobles have picked up on it as well. The winner of a game gets to ask a question of the loser. The loser does have to answer honestly however. Though if you do not wish to play that was it is fine. Of course I am quite sure you must have something to ask, you do seem to be the curious sort.” Celestia rambles off like it was no big deal.

“I suppose we can play that way if you wish Princess Celestia. You are correct that I have a few questions. My most pressing question is why us? Why choose my friends and I to search of the Elements of Harmony?”

“Because you fit what is needed to wield them. Either by product of will, or by deed you are the most likely group to be able to succeed. Though to be honest I did not choose any of you but Rhede and Starfall, the rest of you rather fell into place. Shall we play again.”Celestia asks.

The second game went a bit quicker, Jer'rahd recognized the strategy she was using fairly early and simply moved to counter it.

“Ooh you are quite good, maybe not as good as Lulu, but still better than I am, well ask again.” Celestia chuckles.

“What are the Elements of Harmony?”

“A rather good question though I do not know exactly. They have been around longer than I have and their power changes depending on the wielders. My sister and I were the last to wield them, but there were others before us as well. There is a great power within them that only can be brought out by the sixth element. Friendship and trust are the keys to wielding this power. Both of which are a rare commodity in an age where ponies will turn on each other simply to advance themselves. Shall we play again?” Celestia asks.

He knew something was wrong only a few turns into the game. Celestia's whole strategy had changed and she was easily countering his every attempt to gain ground. Her check mate happened as he was working on countering a completely different strategy that she had set up.

“Ooh, I got lucky that time .. or you let me win didn’t you. Rather sweet of you. Hmm lets see a question, ahh yes. Where did you learn about the rule of three.”

He blinked her voice deepening a bit bringing with it a little bit of menace that was not in her usual joyous expression.

“From my grandfather....... he told me he researched it in order to save my mother, but neither my father nor he had managed the three great feats for Equestria.” Jer'rahd stated a little taken aback by the sudden change in tone.

“Interesting. Again then .”Celestia states.

Check mate in twenty six.

“I know what you hoped to accomplish, but did you even think through the consequences of it, do you even KNOW what those are?”

“The forfeiture of ones life for the wish or request to be granted, I think there was something about damnation if the request was selfish or lacking in something....” Jer'rahd blinks trying to remember .

“That was foalish, Jer'rahd, no pony should want something so bad they are willing to forfeit their soul like that.”

“Soul what..?”

“You didn't win so no questions from you. Again.”

Check mate in Twelve. Something had gone very wrong here.

“What even possessed you to try.”Celestia asks a rather menacing glare developing in her eyes.

“.... Desperation.... fear.....The threats your sister made about my friends. I don't know it just sort of popped into my head when Princess Luna arrived .” Jer'rahd stammers.

“Again” Celestia demands.

Check mate in four, how was that even possible?

“Do you want to know what it was you actually tried to do?”

“Eeeer….Yes......?” Jer'rahd manages.

“Then let us give up the pretense of this game so you might listen fully. The rule of three as you evidently have heard it, is the glamorized and hyped nonsense that I have been very much trying to get rid of. There is no need for the asker's death and there is no need for the three things to be accomplished. All of it is legend and hearsay built up from the few times we have granted a dieing request to a loyal subject. The rule of three is the bastardization of a holy pact, Jer'rahd. One that bonds your soul to the god or goddess that agrees. If you died your soul would have been taken by Luna and her power would have increased. Any hope of you ever reaching an after life along with your friends or the mare you had interest in would be gone. Your spirit would have been as dead as your body. You lived because she saved you, but the pact was still sealed between the two of you. That wound you still have bound on your forehead is proof of that pact. What you have done is make our lives a good bit more difficult. As in accepting you have darkened my sisters own soul with yours which is still owned by her even though you lived.” Celestia growls the room darkening as she rants. His eyes widen as, Celestia's eyes narrow. She had lifted up a bit leaning over the chess set glaring at him.

She suddenly crosses her eyes and blows a raspberry at him,as the room brightens up again. He yelps falling back off the cushion to the floor as she laughs.

“That,.... that was not a funny!” Jer'rahd growls.

“Oh I thought it was hilarious. Besides a bit of humor before I tell you want you really did will take the edge off. It does have to deal with that mark though. A crescent moon scar I gather. It has been a while since Luna had a Wu.” Celestia chuckles.

“A what, a Wu? I apologize if I seem a little skeptical after the last joke but that does not even seem to be a real word.”Jer'rahd grumbles

“It is a term from the old tongue, General Kaisur. It means nothing or void. It stands for the soul you lost and I now have. The agreement has passed your soul to me forming a connection. If I die, you die. As long as I live so will you. If I some how become a regular pony you shall do so as well. But for all purposes I own you General.”Luna states from behind him.

“Ah, there you are sister. I was just explaining what your new pet here has done. Though you do it so much better than I could. Should we go shopping for a collar and leash later for him? I am thinking green, it matches his eyes.... well one of them any way. Still having doubts General? Not believing both of us?” Celestia grins.

She floats a mirror from some where to in front of his face. A faint crescent shaped glow, easily seen from under the bandage over his head seems to pulse. His eyes widen.

“Since your new owners close its letting you know.”Celestia grins as Jer'rahd's eyes widen further.

Jer'rahd's head whipped back and forth looking at the two of them in panic. Celestia's small smirk and the dead pan expression on Luna's face terrified him. The both seemed to watch his rising state of panic before the Goddess of Night smiled and the Goddess of the Sun fell off her cushion laughing again.

“ You, this, wait, wa,Wa....what!?!” Jer'rahd stammers.

“I will admit Tia, that was a better reaction than I thought he would have. It was a fairly good touch with the glowing as well.”Princess Luna smiles.

“I had to do it, this was too easy. Hah hah. The look on his face.” Celestia cackles.

“Another joke? Did that rule mean anything at all then?!” Jer'rahd snaps.

“Not a thing General. The rule of three is a very old mares tale that never had any truth behind it. In the past some requests were granted to those who had done a great service before they died. Though those were little more than honoring a friend or loyal servant of their last desire. Some ponies thought that we would grant any demand to such heroes as they died. There was no real reason to squash the rumor as it did inspired ponies to extraordinary lengths to seek a wish. One of our more confusing Generals did promote the rule heavily during the Discordian war ,but the meaning changed often during even that time. In all it has been more beneficial to not deny the rule of three as false. Still it is something we are also content to let die, so we were rather surprised you knew of it.”

Celestia sits back up on the cushion chuckling softly a bit looking at Jer'rahd sits there dumfounded his mouth agape and ears flat against his head.

“There is one thing however Jer'rahd. I am aware you helped in saving Luna from the Bone Hounds. I am also aware that if not for you, Queen Velkorn, and yes even Rhede Pelt, the zebra war would have lasted much longer. Do not look so surprised I know his part in all that General. “ Celestia smiled. “I have been made keenly aware that you managed, with the aid of Bleu and the singer Platinum, to take down a dragon mage and saved Dullahan Keep and by extension most of the eastern lands of Equestria from what might have crossed the wall after ward. I am even slightly amused that you fended off three squads of Guard by yourself without injuring any of them unduly, all while severely injured yourself. But.....”

Jer'rahd was suddenly yanked from the floor by Celestia's magic, spun around in the air and floated barely a hoof length from her face upside down. His blade slips free of the sheath clanging to the chess board as his legs kick feebly in the air to find purchase as he faces a suddenly very pissed off looking Celestia..

“I am not OK with your attempt on your own life. You have unfortunately some how made yourself too valuable to my plans. But if you EVER threaten Luna or try and kill yourself again I will see to it what was done to Claymore will seem like a sponge bath compared to what will be done to you. I will then make sure you live just so I can make you a statue, one I can point out to any one else as the end result of the folly of suicide or threatening my sister. Being a statue will also make it easier to keep you around for when I feel like smacking something. ARE WE CLEAR GENERAL KAISUR!?” Bellows Celestia

“Yes....yes.... Princess Celestia.........” Jer'rahd stammers.

“Good, I think I am quite done with you for today, Good bye Jer'rahd.”

She barely moves though her magic whips suddenly flinging him across the room and out a magically opened window that slams shut behind him.

“That was a little much Tia.” Luna sighs rubbing her ears from her sisters use of the Royal Canterlot voice.

“He will land in the lake. Excellent bladder control on him as well. I may have been harsh, but he is one of the hard headed ones. He has had too much carrot, a little stick will not damage him unduly. Besides if he is afraid of me, he is more likely to warm up to you.” Celestia sighs a small smile crossing her features.

“I know that look. Stop attempting to play match maker sister. Still you are correct that he does need to be taught a bit of respect. Perhaps I promoted him a bit too fast.” Luna sighs.

“Oh ?Going soft sister or is there something else going on I should know about, hmm?” Celestia grins lifting up Jer'rahd's sword looking it over.

“I do wonder if you are losing your mind at times Tia.” Luna sighs.

“Not at all sister. Regardless of how I act, I can quite clearly see what is coming from this attack. And if I choose to indulge myself in a bit of fun now, I will be able to see my way through to what is to come much easier. A dragon Slayer blade? He is a interesting one, this weapon shouldn't even exist any more.”

“There are a number of odd things about him.” Luna admits. “ The least of which is his horrid luck.”

“Perhaps to some ponies points of view, but that luck has helped Equestria several times now by putting him in the right place at the right time. Even after our first meeting I never even considered him despite my choice of Starfall Silvertail. And as such fate threw him back in my face until I did notice him. I know you have duties you wish to attended to sister, though when you are finished bring this blade to Jer'rahd. I doubt he will want to come back in here again for a while. Though on your way out please send in Pelt.”

“I did not expect you sought that sort of fun.” Luna teases.

“Well seems you are in a good mood , though despite how he looks that is not my intent.”Celestia chuckles.

=================================================

Twilight pulled back shaking her head a little at that, she was following along well enough, but she had to stop for a moment and wonder how Luna had not known the meaning of fun when she arrived in this age, but she spoke of it to Celestia? Twilight thinks a moment adjusting the spell to cease translation as she reviewed the scene.

============================================

“We did not expecteth thou sought that sorteth of merriment.” Luna sasses.

“Tis apparent thou art in jovial spirits, though despite his fair visage, tis not mine intent. ”Celestia chortles.

====================================== Twilight pulls back again, shaking her head and rapidly turning the translator back on to ignore all that old tongue. Question answered, head ache gained .

==========================================

“I did not expect you sought that sort of fun.” Luna teases.

“Well seems you are in a good mood , though despite how he looks that is not my intent.”Celestia chuckles.“That is two jokes in one day sister. That's a record for you.”

“I take my duties as a ruler a bit more serious than you do Tia.” Luna snorts.

“You take everything,too serious.”

“Yet I also know the strain of having to follow your code in this time of turmoil. You are relying on me more than you wish to. “

“Are you alright with that?”

“It will take more than having to deal with conflicts such as these to bother me. But you Tia, I know it tears you up every time those lists come in.”

“It does, and it always will sister. I am not suited for war and death such as this. Which is why I leave the conflicts to you. You are strong enough to handle what I cannot.”

“Only due to the strength you have shown in the past sister, neither of us would be here if not for that. If there is anything I can do to help....” Luna questions.

“You already are with this latest task sister. If you succeed this will be over before it begins.”

“It has already begun Tia. But perhaps we can cut it short before too many lives are lost.” Luna sighs , turning and heading out the door.

“Wait you forgot , oh never mind I doubt he will need it in the lake anyway.” Celestia smirks floating the blade to a table behind her and setting up the pieces of the board again. She could still hear her sisters hoof falls echo in the hall. Luna had to put forth an effort to be heard when she she moved so it was likely for the pony listening at the far doors sake she made any noise at all.

A few moments later Rhede sauntered into the room his hoof beats striking loudly on the floor as if he was trying to make sure she knew he was coming as well. She rolled her eyes at that.

“Greetings Princess. And how is the lovely sun goddess today?” Rhede smiles.

“Quite well Rhede. Ever the flatterer I see. I would suggest you not attempt anything overtly flirtatious with my sister. She won't be as receptive I'm sure. I do not suppose you would be up for a game of chess?”

“Hmm, that is more Jer's game oh sorry Jer'rahd, but I know a little. I suppose you would want to play palace rules? I've heard it said that you usually play that way? I shudder to think of what you might ask me.” Rhede smiles. “ Though certain measurements I would gladly show you even without a game....”

Celestia blinks then smiles a little shaking her head.“Perhaps another time, though are you not up for the game?”

“Now, I would never turn down a invitation from such a lovely mare. Though I doubt you are going to ask for a simple report if I lose.” Rhede grins.

“Not at all, that defeats the entertainment of it, though feel free to tell me the business over the game. It has been some time since we actually talked.”

“Of course.”

Rhede settles down across from the Princess cracking his neck a bit as he shifts his robes around him waiting for her first move. He begins speaking the moment the first white pawn is moved.

“The Colonel let slip the name Silverclaw. Last I checked he was a young dragon with ties to the Flame Party. From what was said he offered the Colonel a chance to oversee a great deal of land during the dragons rule if he aided them in taking the keep. Standard evil villain fair, get the peon to do the dirty work. Of course Silverclaw has close to twenty or thirty alibis that all swear hes never been any where near the wall. The Flame party also denies all rumors that they wish to restart the war. Which is complete and utter shit as they have been pressing for another invasion for years. Still they are gathering sizable forces under the name of defensive purposes.”

Her magic shifts a piece when Rhede was not looking.

“What about the green dragon that attacked the keep?” Celestia asks.

Rhede moves a piece, knocking one of hers into the sleeve of his robe and moving it off the field out of her sight.

“Not sure on the name, seems if she was anything her name was stricken from the records. Unfortunately, my contacts have not found anything on her at all, not even a family. She was too old and too skilled a dragon to have not been noticed by some one. Public sources from the Dragon's say she was a hermit who just went senile. She was not any where near old enough to go senile and she was using more than just draconic magic in that fight. Also all of the weapons and armor we found on the half breeds is brand new specificly made for this attack it seems. Claymore and his group were wearing the same sort of gear. I'm still not happy Mustang killed all the others before we could question them.”

One of his pieces slips into the table with out his notice as she moves something on the other side of the board. His own tail flicks around setting a new piece onto the board in an advantageous position.

“General Mustang may have been a little excessive but the message their death sent is just as effective to others who might consider betrayal. So they say she was a hermit hmm?That sort of information will be good to let out for panic control, A rogue and a traitor. That would explain everything but the trolls. What was the explanation for that large a group of them Rhede?”

“Random attack, I suppose we could set something up where the trolls were running from the dragon and the half breeds. Get some one important to announce it. Or at least some one who knows their stuff. One of the survivors of Dullahan is an expert on Discordian creatures. She can explain it how we want it to be told. She served under Jer'rahd as well so she can add to what was told about him.“

Celestia changes one of her pawns to a queen as she moves a rook.

“Is there anyone important your friend does not have a connection to? And there we have Checkmate Rhede.”

“I doubt he knows the Seapony Princess Aqua, at least not yet, give him time I'm sure he'll be dating her or something before long. Hmm, so it is. I guess I owe you an answer.”

“So what is your connection to Velkorn, and do not be coy I can tell there is one. “

He starts setting up the board again.

“That is a bit complicated. She is a sweet mare, but then again you know my job, and you know how I am. After what happened I have no intentions of trying anything with her despite how much she seems to be fixated on me. She needs to work it out of her system and find some one else to fawn over, it's getting quite hard to ignore her.”

“That you try speaks volumes Rhede.”

“I learn from and take responsibility for my mistakes Princess. Including this one. She wound up being one of Jer'rahd's friends, same as the rest of us. Because of that I am doing my best to make sure she does not get hurt, unlike Starfall, if I flirt with her she will take it as a sign of my interest. I don't want to give her that notion. I do not need anything to drive a wedge into the group. If I gave in it would cause problems. Ignoring her is also causing problems though it is something that I should be able to handle however.”

“Giving up everything for your mission still?”Celestia chuckles.

He slides a pawn forward for the next game.

“Would you have chosen me to seek Generosity if I did not?” Rhede grins.

“No, Though you were only given that due to your connection to Starfall and now to him. I had you pegged more for Loyalty until Jer'rahd came along and blew that option out of the water. Still if The Order is following you suggestion. It might be helping him out in the short run, but in the long run you are causing more harm to your friend than good.”

“I am aware of this. I am also quite aware how he is, if he had to suffer to help others he would not even hesitate. He was placed where he was to get him out of the way, but if he had not been there many more would have suffered. The Order is more than surprised that he has survived where their other choices have not. While the Order did leak to the Bone Hounds that your sister would be in that wagon, I doubt they knew about the dagger or that Jer'rahd would be the only one to do something. He was not even on their watch list until that point. The ones they chose either died or did nothing of note. Starfall's part in that was unexpected. But that was what got her selected by you, something The Order couldn't refute, hard to argue the choice of a pony who did something no one had ever seen before.”

“I have seen one before.” Celestia adds moving one of her pieces.

Rhede raises an eyebrow at that though he continues. “The unicorn who was head of the first attempt to breach the warlords keep was The Orders chosen. Some pony who would follow their orders, their rules. They knew of Jer'rahd though they wrote him off as dead when he went missing. When their first choice failed they were prepared to start again, they told me to kill him so they could start over. Then Jer'rahd arrived with Velkorn and he was made the hero in place of their first choice. I got into a great deal of trouble for that. The events of the wall cemented his position in their eyes if reluctantly. Like Starfall it's hard to argue the choice of a pony who could slay a dragon and defend against impossible odds.”

She moves another piece the soft click of gemstone all that was heard for a bit.

“The Order did not plan for Jer'rahd to be a bearer then?”

“Not at all, he only came to their attention after the Bone Hound incident.”

“And you?”

“Given my … unique testing I was always on the list. Seems I was considered a perfect mole to be placed and sway what the Element's of Harmony did once they were found. Given that including your sister they have no sway over any of the others my worth just shot up to untouchable for a while. Heck , if they even tried to talk to Jer he would probably do the opposite of what they told him just out of spite.”

“I do appreciate you still choosing to serve me over them.”

“You look a lot better than most of their mares.”

The soft click continued half the pieces vanishing or reappearing on the board the whole ordeal seeming less like a game of chess and more like a game of who could get away with cheating the most.

“We both know, while sweet, that is not the reason.”

“ And what pray tell is the reason? Check mate.” Rhede grins.

“Your friends. Go ahead an ask your question Rhede.” Celestia smiles.

“Would you do me the honor of allowing me to be your escort to the next Grand Galloping Gala?”

Celestia Blinks eyes narrowing at him a bit before she smiles looking at the insane grin the earth pony was giving her.

“On that I will get back to you. I still have others to speak with.”

“Of course Princess, I do eagerly await your response.”

He rose, a great many chess pieces from the set as well as some extras, falling from his robes onto the cushion under him.

“Oh dear, now how did those get there. Ahh well have fun with your talks Princess. Try not to throw any one else out the window?” Rhede grins.

“I believe I am past that point. Though only if you leave now Rhede.” Celestia sighs looking at the massive collection of pieces on the cushions.

He bows, heading out whistling lightly, flicking an extra white queen into the air with his tail as he walks.

-============================================================

They had been staring at each other over the board for easily a hour now. Granted this was how nearly all of their meetings had gone. The Queen of the Zebralands simply had no idea what she was supposed to be doing, and Princess Celestia could talk for hours and only get maybe a nod or a head shake from her at most. If she had not been suggested by Rhede let alone some how wound up in Jer'rahd's little circle she would have thrown her hooves up in frustration months ago and not had anything more to do with the zebra mare.

Rhede had told her that Velkorn tended to be quiet most of the time so it was not just her. He was not sure if it was out of shyness or having no idea what to really say if the topic strayed out of her field of expertise. Unfortunately most topics for leaders tended not to cover healing and medicine. Granted, Velkorn also had a fondness for birds so Philomena was a starting place, but it was not enough for a long conversation, nor was there a way to segway it into something else. She had explained the situation as politely as she could though her own skill at speaking zebra was rather lack luster. Velkorn seemed to understand, despite the errors Celestia's translation provided. Still she offered no response aside from a small smirk and shake of her head when Jer'rahd or Rhede were mentioned.

[“If I might ask do you understand what is going on? You have not said more than five words to me since your arrival.” ] Celestia finally sighs blurting out.

The zebra queen perked up suddenly as if thinking of something, Celestia leaned over the chess board eager to finally hear her say something.

[“I do indeed get the general idea you are proposing. As for my silence, well...,it is hard to rhyme Celestia.”]

The Princess face plants into the chess board.

=======================================================================

“….....we had her portrait done so I could take it with me and she smiled the entire time it was being painted she's gotten big enough that shes just starting to fly for a bit at a time and every time I go home she flutters around me like my own little escort of cuteness and shes even been trying to mimic the rain boom after she was told about it though at best she can maybe fly a few feet hopping along but shes making this adorable little humming noise trying to mimic the sound, I mean can you believe how big she's gotten in just a few years shes taking after her father though shes already trying for her cutie mark even though she isn't old enough to even be in school yet......”

Celestia let Starfall ramble on making a small note to herself as the pegasus continued about her daughter barely pausing for a breath let alone letting her get a word in edgewise. When dealing with Starfall never try to beak the initial ice by asking about her child. While it might work to get her talking, she also wouldn't stop.

“Starfall, I do have a few things to tell you about the Elements.......”Celestia began.

“Oh not a problem at all, but you should have seen her, we just went to the zoo for the first time yesterday and she fell in love with the little turtles they had there in the petting section of it she wound up riding along on the back of on of the bigger ones and the whole place was just going daww over the whole scene.......”

Celestia's eye started to twitch.

=======================================================================

“You ate them all? How did you even manage that? I stopped looking at you for a moment.” Celesta gasps.” Even the extra ones?!”

“I did not eat them all.” Bleu grumbles, pointing to a pair of the extra piece that had teeth marks in them.” Those two are wax copies.”

“My entire chess set is gone except the board Bleu and there's tiles missing from that even. There you just ate the white rook!!” Celestia fumes.

“I did not eat them all..... I have a couple left for later.... you don't happen to have any ketchup do you?” Bleu asks.

Her head impacts the chess board again in a face plant causing the white queen to fall out of where she had hidden it behind her crown.

“Hey you gonna eat that?” Bleu questions.

-=====================================================================

“I do apologize for that. I think there might be enough left in the property damage fund to cover at least some of the chess pieces.” Jer'rahd mutters trying to keep away from the clearly annoyed Princess.

“Not even close General...... at least I know what to ask for on my birthday this year.” Celestia sighs.

“So aside from that, why did you ask me back after flinging me out the window Princess? Not that I am upset with having something of a normal conversation now, but starting it with the amount of damage that Bleu caused does not calm me any.” Jer'rahd mutters.

“How do you manage to handle them?”

“Handle who?”

“Rhede,Velkorn, Starfall and that filly of hers and now the dragon?”

“Handle them?”

“I have spent my entire day Kaisur attempting to tell them what they need to know about what I am sending them to do. The only one other than you who got it was Rhede who then asked me to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“Oh crap, you didn't accept did you? I will never hear the end of it then. Honestly his ego is big enough as it is....” Jer'rahd rambles.

“THAT IS NOT THE POINT.”

Jer'rahd leans back as Celestia composes herself a bit after the outburst. He had been teased, been the brunt of a joke, and the target of her ire. He was well beyond sure exactly what she might do.

“Seems I am missing the point then.”

“Are you all intentionally trying to make me frustrated, because as much as that takes you are getting close.” Celestia growls.

“Have any friends yourself Princess? Other than subjects I mean?”

“I do, I have had many, though none I can recall having had as clashing as personalities as your friends do. All of them seem to get along fine regardless of that.”

“Not really, I don't handle any one I simply accept them as how they are and they do the same. There are issues though. Rhede and I argue all the time, same with Starfall, Velkorn's hard to talk to, and Bleu is well.... Bleu.”

“And yet you still do well enough together.”

“We do. It is not as if it is easy we all have strong beliefs in what we think. Arguments and heated discussions are common. I mean some of us have only known each other for a couple of months. But for some reason all of us get along well enough to enjoy each others company. It is like some sort of odd friendship magic or something.” Jer'rahd rambles.

“That sounds like some task I would give a student. Study the magic of friendship.” Celestia snorts.

“Yeah well, I would like to apologize for before Princess. I do realize you mean well by the threats. I regretted what I had done when I calmed down and woke up...... the third time.... You do not need to worry about me seeking to take my own life or threatening Princess Luna again.”

“Good at least one thing has gone right today. My sister was worried I might have been too heavy handed hammering that home. Life is a gift and it greatly angers me to see any one wish to end their own before their time for no reason, or a stupid one.”

“However.”Jer'rahd continues ignoring the Princess's look of anger at that small statement. His sword floats over from the table behind her sheathing itself on his harness.

“I will say this Princess. Particularly since you seem rather annoyed at them all right now. I cannot read your intent, and you have proven you can very easily confuse me with what you do. So I will put this out as plainly as possible so you don't find a loophole or something. If you intentionally hurt or threaten my friends, I will find a way to make you pay for it.” Jer'rahd states his eye flicking with a bit of red.

“Luna was right you do have a rather sizable pair on you General.” Celestia stares at him simply surprised at his gall.

“It's just how it goes Princess. You have made your rules known and I made mine.”

“You do realize that it is still treasonous to threaten royalty do you not?”

“Yes well, I was banking on being able to get away with it this time since you needed me for what ever you had planned.“

“Well aren’t you a clever pony........”

“Oh buck, don't say that....” Jer'rahd whines.

“You are right though. Having you locked up or executed would be counter productive to my plans. Though there are great many things I can do to you that would still leave you in a shape to complete what is needed and yet still make you wish your father never met your mother, luckily for you I seem to have found another use for you that I like better. Very helpful in relieving stress.”

“What!? Oh no, let me at least tie my sword in plaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaceeeeeeeeeeeee!!!”Jer'rahd screams

The magic gripped Jer'rahd again flinging him out through a open window that shuts tight behind him, his sword once again clattering to the floor. Celestia smiles picking it up and floats it over to Luna as she enters.

“Did you throw him out again?”Luna sighs taking the sword from her sister. “ He is never going to fully heal if you keep doing that.”

“ Yes. It seems to be very therapeutic. I feel much better now. Would you mind taking this out to him? It is time for some tea.” Celestia states with a odd chipperness that made Luna want to leave much quicker.

===================================

Luna appears at the lake just as Jer'rahd manages to climb out of it shaking off the water like a dog. Bleu, Rhede, Starfall and Velkorn sit off to the side watching him.

“Hah, ten minutes pay up Pelt.” Starfall laughs.

“Jer you are costing me bits I had you in there for at least fifteen.” Rhede snarls tossing Starfall the bits.

“You know boss for a unicorn you sure take to the air a lot.” Bleu smirks.

“Didn’t you know, coughs, I always wanted to be a pegasus.” Jer'rahd grumbles wringing out his tail.

“You're doing it wrong Jer'rahd. The whole angle of your body was off with all that spinning and yelling. Might help if you had wings as well.” Starfall adds.

“Yes thank you Starfall I shall endeavor to remember it next time. Straighten form, grow wings I think I have it now.”Jer'rahd snaps.

“I do apologize for my sister, she has had a bit of a rough time of it as of late.” Luna comments finally being noticed by the others who bow.

“No need to apologize Princess Luna. Besides if the worse I get when I talk to her is a little wet I think I am ahead of the game.” Jer'rahd mutters.

“Do not forget, though most absurd, you tend to wind up soaring like a drunken bird. Your return to the lake was rather curt, are you alright or are you hurt?” Velkorn finally asks

“I'm fine..... just wet....... again.....” Jer'rahd sighs.

========================================================================

[ Three days later]

“Score?” Jer'rahd growls.

“Twenty seven to five, boss she's kicking yer flank across the field.” Bleu chuckles.

“Again.” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Much as I enjoy smacking you around Jer'rahd. Haven’t you had enough for one day?” Starfall asks

“I've had worse.”

“I'd say you lie, but I saw you at Camp Geode, not to mention how you looked coming back from Dullahan. Fine, I figure I have a few more rounds in me.” Starfall grins. “ After all how many ponies can say they can knock the crap out of the Demon of Dullahan consistently?”

“ Don't call me that and just start already Starfall. Not like there is much else to do while waiting for what ever we are supposed to be doing.” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Fine, you asked for it.” Starfall grins.

She darted forward leaving a rainbow like trail behind her. Jer'rahd growled, the trail tended to throw off his vision if he looked at it. He tossed up a shield to his right head whipping about to block her swing from the left. She kicked away, going air born, the strike of their wooden swords heard only after they had split apart from the blow.

She was toying with him, Jer'rahd could tell that, but it was not like he could do much about it. She was not overconfident any more after he managed to win one or two by taking advantage of that. She was still toying with him though. She could have been much faster and hit a great deal harder. He knew he had left a great many openings that she could take advantage of with her speed. She was avoiding the easy strikes. The spar was set to the first to hit won so she should have just pressed an ended the match.

Jer'rahd smirks knowing why she didn't. It wasn't a decent spar if you didn't push yourself, she was going for something tricky or difficult to push herself as well. He had tried to keep it interesting for her, boxing her in with his shields, changing stances, anything to keep her pushing herself and at the same time it pressed him as well coming up with new tactics.

Princess Luna had watched for a few rounds mentioning her style seemed akin to the swashbucklers of pirate novels that relied on quick movements and fast attacks. She claimed Jer'rahd's was more of the eastern pony style, that relied heavily on powerful strikes and blade weight. Luna had continued on a bit about it until Bleu pretend to fall asleep causing the Princess to leave in a huff.

It started as a simple ground spar though the more losses Jer'rahd took the more serious he took it. At one point he had grabbed six or seven other training blades with his magic to try and catch her off guard. That slowed him down more than it helped him and added another loss. His use of magic also signaled the end of the ground only portion of the spar.

Starfall slid back to the far side of the circle, spitting out her blade and catching it with a hoof picking up a second training sword as well. This was her usual style, duel short blades, if she was taking this stance Starfall was done playing. He had yet to figure out how she managed to hold her blades with her hooves, he only knew a few ponies who could do that, including Rhede and Velkorn......and the princesses.... OK he knew a lot of ponies who could do that. He needed to learn that trick one day.

He lifted his blade up over his head with his magic, a high stance, he could easily strike from any angle like this without having to sweep the blade across his body if she attacked from another side.
She moved suddenly and he caught his blade in his mouth as it fell, forming shields every where along her path trying to force her into a set direction though that was little more than something to slow her a bit. She whipped among them, like they were no challenge at all to doge, however she did seem to be moving in the direction he wanted her to move.

He brought his blade down suddenly striking at her, the blade stopping as it smacked her back. He smirked at the win, then blinked in surprise at the feeling of a pair of wooden blades smacking into his flank. Glancing back he saw Starfall floating behind him, his own weapon having hit an afterimage of her and connected with his own shield. Damn rainbows.

“Twenty eight to five and that’s ball game. Mostly cause I am not gonna watch this embarrassment any more.”Bleu throws up her hands flinging her score keeping notes in to the air.

“Another new trick?” Jer'rahd asks

“Of course. I hold my cards close Jer'rahd. The Princess might have said I was honest or something, but that doesn't mean I have to tell every one everything I know. You do that better any way. You make shields and you throw stuff around. The sword trick with all of them was neat but you didn’t think to practice with it and just used it when you got ticked off. That temper of yours is not good either Jer'rahd.” Starfall taunts.

“I am working on keeping that in check.” Jer'rahd growls.

“Least you ego's healthy, and you're not too concerned about losing.” Bleu chimes in from the other side of the arena.

“Its been crushed rather badly lately, but no its still there.” Jer'rahd sighs.

“Well, happy to help you train up a bit now that Velkorn has cleared you. I have been meaning to ask though. How you holding up other wise. You were a great deal of a mess after Dullahan, so was your sidekick. I know its been a year now but still.” Starfall asks putting her weapons back on the rack.

“I will live, still hurts to think about but not nearly as much. I know Bleu still cries at times, when she thinks I don't notice.” Jer'rahd glances at the little dragon as she ran around trying to collect the papers she flung into the air his voice lowering. “ I barely knew Platinum a month and I feel like this. I do not even know how I would have survived what you went through.”

“It has yet to get any easier for me Jer'rahd. Its been five years now and I still have to distract myself. If it had not been for my daughter I likely would have died as well.” Starfall sighs.

“On that, you have done more than your share of service Starfall. Why haven’t you left the Guard and gone back to her?” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“I made a promise to serve when I signed up and I have made more since this whole Elements of Harmony stuff was explained. Regardless of what the news says I believe Princess Luna when she says that attack was only the start. With as long as she has been around and what she has seen I would think she would know. If there is going to be another war and there is some way I can help to keep it away from my little pony, I will do it. I promised I would. I do not break my promises.”Starfall states quietly.

“You do not listen when ponies say your promise has been fulfilled either, you still think you owe me your life.”Jer'rahd snorts.

“I do.”

“What about the train ambush? You broke open the very sky to come and rescue me and it worked too if you had not likely both I and the Princess would be dead.”

“That was not a rescue that was an accident that turned out to be good.”

“You keep telling yourself that and I will keep telling you other wise. We are even let it go.”

“Not likely.”Starfall grins.

“Yah, know as much as you two softly talk to each other over here I would think you were trying to set up some secret meeting to knock horseshoes or something .” Bleu interjects.

“GAH!!!” Starfall yelps

“Bleu.....” Jer'rahd sighs.

“What ? You think I mind? Be nice to see a few of my friends hook up. Sure I egged him in one direction before, but circumstances changed that and despite all the gray showing up in his mane he's still a young stallion, stupid and slow to do anything sure, but there’s got to be some mare out there again who might like him.” Bleu lists.

“Bleu what?” Jer'rahd stammers

“Simple boss. I have been thinking this over a lot lately, its been a year since Platinum died. You have been doing nothing but sitting on your duff here, training occasionally, and avoiding the world at large.” Bleu points out.

“So have you. And you know we have a mission coming at some point and I hate the media that hounds me any time I go out.” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“I'm your bloody partner, what am I gonna do run out side to frolic after a 'rogue' dragon panics everyone?” Bleu grumbles making little quotation marks in the air with her claws.

“She has a point Jer'rahd.”Starfall chuckles.

“Yeah but shes frollicing around it.”Jer'rahd snarks.

“I told you to leave the jokes to me Boss. See this is where slow gets added in. Everyone of you ponies are the most depressing messes of horse flesh I have ever met. Well with the exception of Rhede he actually is one of the nicest pieces I’ve seen.....”Bleu murmurers.

“Is that drool?”Starfall asks.

“Never you mind!! Even if it kills me I am going to see to it that you lot of idiots actually cheer the buck up. Maybe find some nice new mare friend for the boss here too.” Bleu comments.

“Hey wait a moment......”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Oh I know its gonna be tough, I mean there’s so little to work with! An abrasive personality, stubborn streak, short temper, scarred flank.....” Bleu lists.

“Large ego, no sense of self preservation, blood thirsty.......”Starfall adds.

“Stop encouraging her Starfall...” Jer'rahd groans.

“Yeah all that too, but some where out there is some one who won't give a crap about that. The biggest problem is finding some pony who's standards are low enough, but is of a high enough caliber to compete with his last mare friend.” Bleu ponders tapping her chin.

“Don't look at me. He's not my type. I prefer Pegasi.” Starfall waves a hoof at Bleu.

“I'll keep that in mind but for now Boss needs more help then you.”

Jer'rahd simply stares at the two of themas they start naming off ponies left and right, finding reasons to shoot them down as if he was not even there.

“Wait what makes you two think I am even looking for another mare friend?” Jer'rahd growls after they start adding fictional characters to the lists.

“Ehh? What switched sides on us? That is horrifyingly romantic. Mare friend dies, so to honor her memory the stallion becomes a colt cuddler....” Bleu croons.

“THAT IS NOT WHAT I MEANT!” Jer'rahd shouts.

“Really so you are interested in mares still then?”Starfall quips.

“YES!” Jer'rahd growls.

“Good, then be a good pony and let us discuss the plans to completely pick out your future.”Bleu snarks patting his head.

He drops his head with a groan ,ears flattening as they continue to discuss potential matches. He did not need this.

“Ooh, I got it Starfall. What about Celestia?” Bleu points out.

“What? I don't know if that would work her being a goddess and all.” Starfall adds.

“And she enjoys flinging me out windows.” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Well she's supposed to be a combination of all types of ponies and boss here's at least two types.”

“She threw me out of a window.”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“That may be, but I do not think she actual seeks company like that.” Starfall considers.

“I landed head first in a very cold lake....”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Hey I might no know the full details of how ponies operate, but she's a mare he's a stallion, she seems to like everyone, and shes a goddess, you really cannot get much higher than that in standards.” Bleu offers.

“I had a trout stuck to my horn......”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Be that as it may i have no idea how we would get the two of them together.”Starfall muses.

“I would have to develop a fetish about being flung skyward.....”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Maybe we could get him to invite her to the Grand Galloping Gala.” Starfall suggests.

“Rhede beat me to that.......”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“WHAT!?!” the mare and Dragonling yell.

“Wait, you were actually listening to me? “ Jer'rahd blinks.

“Forget that, whats this about Rhede inviting her to the Gala?” Bleu demands.

“Velkorn's not going to like that.” Bleu winces.

“Wait why would Velkorn care....”Jer'rahd stammers

“Typical clueless male.” Starfall grumbles. “Any way Jer'rahd, how do you know Celestia was invited by Rhede.”

“She told me..... before she flung me into a lake again.” Jer'rahd sighs.

“Did she accept?” Bleu demands.

“She didn't say, now whats this about Velkorn?” Jer'rahd asks.

“Well, it's likely nothing then though that might take Princess Celestia out of the picture. What about Princess Luna?” Bleu mutters.

“That could work. She seems to at least tolerate him.”Starfall adds

“Not this again...... why do you two insist on talking over me, when I am taller than you both?” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Well she does have that fearsome Goddess of War thing going on.” Starfall comments

“Yeah but boss has his own titles Hero of the Zebra war, Demon of Dullahan.” Bleu lists

“ I still can't believe they are actually calling him a demon now.”Starfall sighs.

“Yeah, that whole dragon thing kinda put the fear of what one solider could do into pretty much every pony. News had a field day, I didn't even get mentioned, though I am quite fine with that to be honest. OK, she seems to tolerate him that’s a start.” Bleu notes.

“Princess Luna threw me into a lake as well.....”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“She still fits all the high standard criteria that Celestia has.” Starfall points out, blissfully ignoring Jer'rahd.

“She also kicked me in the head......”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Yes, but she seems a bit more reserved than Princess Celestia does. I am not sure she would even consider it. Princess Luna does seem more the business type.” Bleu adds, also ignoring Jer'rahd.

“She made me think I was a zombie pet too.....”Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Boss does seem to have a thing for dark mares, so it should not be too much a problem to get his interest up.”Bleu notes.

“If he's not lying about being into mares it likely wouldn't take much to get his 'interest up' Starfall smirks getting a cackle from Bleu.

“OK, that is it from both of you! I am not going to stand here and let you insult me to my face and talk over me.” Jer'rahd growls.

“Good point boss. Why don't you go stand over there.” Bleu chuckles.

“No, just stop, you two have been going on about this for far to long. I am not ready to be looking for another mare friend and even if I was it would not be Princess Luna. There is no chance in all of Equestria that I would, she is not a mare I would be interested in!!” Jer'rahd snaps.

“You are not a prize yourself General.” states a cold voice.

Jer'rahd stiffens a look of horror on his face as Princess Luna lands lightly across from the three of them.

“My sister wishes to see you all now. We would not keep her waiting unless you seek another bath General.” Luna comments just as coldly before spreading her wings and flying off again.

“I am an idiot.”Jer'rahd mutters.

“Yep, boss you are.”

“A complete one at that Jer'rahd.” Starfall sighs shaking her head.

=====================================================================

[Later in Celestia's meeting room]

“I have an assignment for you all. It will mean a return to Dullahan, and a trip into the Darklands. I need you all to go to the Castle of Discord.” Celestia states flatly.

The group of them muttered rather surprised at the directness as well as the order itself a few of them were just confused as to what any of it meant.

“I have heard of tales of that place, most say it appears and vanishes without a trace.” Velkorn mutters.

“It does, but the means for reaching it has been found. In the early years of the Discordian war, Discord scattered maps all over Equestria. The maps had different meanings, some were set up as treasure maps others as invitations to power, or even mining routes. What ever would be most enticing to the pony that found a map is what the map showed. All of the maps truly showed a ever changing safe route through the Darklands, always leading to the keep where Discord could capture and play with the one who followed the map. More often than not, I assume he turned these adventurers into powerful allies to his cause of chaos, few that have ever gone there ever found their way back. Still we have found one such map.” Celestia explains.

“Does it still work Princess?” Starfall asks.

“As far as we can tell yes, the map is currently at Dullahan in the hooves of the new Commander of the 8th Wing Commander Buttercup.” Luna adds in.

“Ahh nice to see Sergeant ...errr Commander Buttercup lived, and it in charge now too.” Jer'rahd smiles.

“There were not many survivors of that attack General, but those that did have been reenforced and the wall repaired. You will not be there longer than a day before traveling on. Just enough to get the information and move on.” Celestia explains.

“Just us five then Princess? Would not a whole company of Guard's be more suitable to traveling there?” Rhede asks.

“No, the maps are designed that the difficulty of the path goes up the more ponies there are. Discord planned for an invasion using the maps. A skilled group of six is optimal for survival to and exiting the castle. It is not the best, but it is all we have to go on at the moment. “

“There are only five of us and only two of those five are really military combatants.” Starfall points out.

“I am fully aware of what you all can do. Also Luna will be accompanying you.” Celestia notes Jer'rahd wince at that , though Luna remains impassive.

“ So a pair of Guard heroes, an ambassador, a zebra queen with more medical knowledge in a tail hair than most ponies have in their entire bodies, The Goddess of War, and a cute lil' baby dragon. Yeah this will end well.” Rhede sighs.

“A baby dragon, who ripped apart a full grown dragon, and has no trouble flying a fully armored stallion into the air.” Jer'rahd adds in.

“Awww, you called me cute, I knew you cared Rhede.” Bleu chimes in.

“Ummm.”

“What is it we are looking for Princess.”Starfall asks.

“A book.” Luna states.

“A book?” Bleu asks.

“It is unlikely you have heard of it by name, but given how odd this groups knowledge base is I would not put it past you that one of you may have heard of the title.” Luna comments.

“The Book of the Blue.” Celestia states, noting a small frown on Rhede's face though the others seem clueless.

“What is this book Princess Celestia.” Jer'rahd asks.

“Rhede if you would.” Celestia asks.

“ Fine, though most of what I know is fifth or sixth hoof. The Book of the Blue is supposedly an ancient tome, formed of chaos by Discord with the sole purpose of finding the Elements of Harmony in order to destroy them. From what I know he managed to steal Laughter and Magic, though he couldn't destroy them and the Elements were stolen away from him and then used against him ending the Discordian war.” Rhede states.

“That is close enough to the truth for the details to matter little. “ Luna states glancing at her sister who remained impassive.

“OK, so how do we know it still exists.” Bleu asks.

“We do not. But for right now finding that book might be our only chance at reclaiming the Elements of Harmony.” Celestia states.

”Hold on I am not any expert on pony lore, but didn’t you and Luna use them to defeat Discord? How did you lose them in that short of time?” Bleu rants.

“They were not lost. They were stolen. Just as we recovered the Elements from Discord to defeat him , they in turn were taken from us. “ Luna states clearly not happy.

“Who would do that?” Jer'rahd asks.

“The Order. Well what would become the Order, I do not know what they first called themselves.” Celestia admits.

“Well crap, this is like a really bad novel, secret organizations, thievery, all we need is a handsome stallion to slay the evil princess and rescue the fair dragon.” Bleu states.

“Other way around Bleu.” Starfall comments.

“Sez you. So whats the Order then stud muffin?” Bleu asks.

“Stop calling me that...... “Rhede grumbles. “ The Order supposedly started out as a group of religious zealots who worshiped the Elements of Harmony as if they were gods of their own right. Something about one of the Elements speaking to a founder of the Order or something.”

“Sounds like some of your followers Princess.” Bleu grumbles.

“BLEU!!” Jer'rahd snaps.

“What? We were all thinking it.”Bleu snarks.

“While it is true that many ponies worship my sister and myself neither of us has ever encouraged such practice and we refuse to allow any temples or churches in our names to be built. We are leaders not omnipotent beings that oversee every aspect of every ponies lives. The more infallible we are made out to be the greater to issue when and if we do fail.” Luna adds.

“The Order did not start as a religious cult. It started because ponies worried about the amount of power that could be harnessed by the Elements and what it could do in the wrong hooves. After the five Elements were stolen they were placed in temples filled with traps and hidden around Equestria where the ones worthy of them could find them if the need ever arose again.”Celestia explains.

“Unfortunately this meant those that they deemed worthy, and The Order did not even see myself or my sister as worthy to wield them. That was one of the main reasons The Dragon War lasted so long. With the Elements of Harmony hidden there was no way to quickly end the conflict. It was not until Forgescale came to attack Canterlot and us directly that we were able to deal with him. His over confidence that he had won was his downfall, had he remained hidden and not pressed the attack himself the war might still be going on.” Luna states.

“Princess Celestia could we not just find the members of The Order and make them tell us where they are?” Starfall asks.

“The Order is not quite the same as they once were, but their influence is still felt. If they wanted they could do a great deal of damage if provoked.” Rhede chimes in. “But still none of them know where the temples are, that information died out with the ones who built the temples and hid the Elements, in the first place.”

“We have know that the thieves as well as a number of the founding members sealed themselves within the temples as if to serve as guardians or prevent what they knew from getting out.” Celestia states sadly as Luna winces.”In the end days of the Discordian war so much rebuilding was going on and so many went missing that no pony bothered to question a few hundred more vanishing or the amount of supplies that had to go into the building of the temples. Where ever they were hidden though it has managed to remain so for the last few thousand years.”

“When the Elements were no longer collected, did you not still feel spiritually connected?” Velkorn asks.

“The Elements have rules which govern them Velkorn. They are little more than artifacts that anyone who meets these rules can wield. Any one can hold them, though they are useless baubles unless that creature is worthy of them. Just because you are worthy of one Element does not make you worthy of all of them. “ Celestia explains.

“So who were the thieves?” Jer'rahd asks. “ They were members of the Order as well I take?”

Celestia looked to Luna whose ears were flattened and didn't respond.

“Sooooooooooooooo Grave robbing to save the world, not sure I am OK with that Princess Celestia.” Bleu throws out breaking the awkward pause.

“The items were stolen Bleu, the temples were built to be opened when some one worthy came along. It's not grave robbing its recovering lost artifacts that might help to end the coming war before it begins. I doubt even the dragons would be willing to invade if Equestira were to acquire the Elements of Harmony again.”Celestia explains.

“Then if it keeps more ponies from dieing, it is a risk that needs to be undertaken. Alright Princess I'm in.” Jer'rahd says his eyes on Luna.

“If boss is in so am I.” Bleu chimes.

“Well I certainly cannot let Jer run off on his own with only Bleu, who knows what sort of trouble those two would cause on their own.” Rhede snorts.

“If Rhede is going, than I am too, you will need a healer this is true.” Velkorn adds.

“Crap, well if you all agreed I might as well, some pony's got to fly your flanks out of the fire when you get into it.”Starfall sighs.

Celestia smiles clapping her hooves together.

“Excellent. It should not take more than a week to get ready for the trip. I suggest you take care of anything you need to in the meantime. Now go away all of you shoo shoo.“ Celestia orders.

=====================================================================

The lot of them are suddenly standing outside of the palace in the garden, all except Jer'rahd who was standing a few feet above the pond in mid air. He yelps suddenly as he drops into the water.

“How did we get out here?” Bleu asks.

“Looks like she teleported the lot of us out.” Rhede mutters.

“That explains why I feel ill.” Starfall curses.

“And why I am soaked.... again.” Jer'rahd sighs climbing out of the pond.

“With all you do in the air, to be sicked by magic is not rightly fair.” Velkorn adds looking over Starfall.

“So I guess a bar trips out then?” Jer'rahd sighs.

“I have a few things to attend to if you do not mind.” Rhede grins

“Oh, I do mind indeed Rhede. Every time I see you lately your either rushing off or spouting things that not many ponies should know. I want to know what you have been doing since basic.” Jer'rahd snaps.

“What's the matter Jer? Don't trust me?” Rhede grins.

“I trust you far more than I should at times, I think.” Jer'rahd snarks.

“I only trust him as far as I can throw him.” Starfall states

“With that to be said, you could likely get a good distance if you flung his ego inflated head.”
Velkorn taunts.

“Hmm...” Starfall considers.

“Fine, I promise I will tell all of you what has happened … another time. Besides Velkorn didn't you want to talk to Jer'rahd?” Rhede points out backing away slowly.

“It is not as important as this quest, but I can bring him along as a guest.” Velkorn nods

“Do the what now? Bleu asks.

“Worry not Bleu , you may come too.” Velkorn smirks.

===================================================================

“How do I let myself be talked into these things?” Jer'rahd growls.

“Boss I was right here and I don't even know. I guess your just a nice pony. But I am getting out of here.” Bleu states taking to the air and getting away from the gray unicorn.

“On my mark foals get ready to throw, here’s the count three, two, one, go.” Velkorn cheers out as Bleu lands on her back.

The sudden rain of hoof balls being thrown had his eyes widening, and shields flaring to life every where at once as he worked on reflecting the balls. He slowly turned his body, his head whipping back and forth trying to keep his concentration up as the foals flung the rubber missiles at him. This was the fifth time this had happened.

It all started when accompanying Velkorn to the foals wing of the hospital. They had been out in the courtyard when a stray ball had been flung his way and he reflexively tossed up a shield blocking it. The bright green panel had attracted the attention of all the foals in the outside play area. It had not taken long till others had started tossing things at him to have them blocked. Velkorn had come up with a game on the spot offering a sweet roll to any little pony who managed to get a ball past his shields.

It had gone down hill for him from there. There were a large number of foals here and it turned into a massive game with the foals becoming rather persistent and determined. He kept tossing up shields with just enough energy to survive a single hit from a ball. He was getting much better with making the shields due to all the training he, Bleu, and Starfall had put in and this was sorta like training to him as well.

Bleu had taken the ones not healthy enough to play aside and was entertaining them... hopefully with some of her cleaner jokes. He turned his head to the left just in time to have a ball smash directly into his nose a cheer going up almost immediately, though a few balls were still being flung. He reached his hoof up rubbing his nose ,a bit of blood left on his hoof.

“OK target injury, time out children.... ow, OK who threw that one any way.. you had some power on that one, you should try out for the hoof ball league.”

After having a nurse put what felt like a roll of gauze in his nose he returned back outside to see Bleu and Velkorn talking.

“..... and then he says he is an idiot and we had to agree.” Bleu mutters.

“Slipped away from his clutch, though your plan might have been a bit much.” Velkorn nods.

“Still going on trying to plan my future Bleu? Wasn’t seeing me make a foal out of myself once enough?” Jer'rahd growls glaring as the pair of them stifle a giggle at how his voice sounds with the wad of gauze on and in his nose.

“Are you kidding you cannot plan for that sort of gag you fell into.” Bleu cheers.

“Ugh, That whole situation is bad, after her whole talk on trust as well...”Jer'rahd sighs.

“Hmm?” Bleu asks

“Nothing. What was was it you wanted to talk about Velkorn?” Jer'rahd yawns a little sitting down noticing a unicorn foal in a wheel chair had won the sweet roll.

“As much as I would like to ask, it seems Bleu has taken your task.” Velkorn admits.

“What?”

“It's covered boss, sure you don't want the foals to use you as a target again, looked sorta like training.” Bleu grins.

“Pass, too many bad flashbacks of school.” Jer'rahd mutters. “ And one foal caused bloody nose is enough for today.

“I have yet to know a unicorn that was not traumatized by magical kindergarten. Seriously, that stuff needs to be investigated.” Bleu huffs.

[“ Are you sure Jer'rahd should not be told of my intent?”]Velkorn mutters in zebra.

[“He's a good pony, but likely he would find some way to screw it up, or actually, Celestia forbid, talk to Rhede about it. Nah, best not to involve him.”] Bleu chatters back.

“I was unaware you spoke Zebra Bleu.” Jer'rahd mutters

“That whole layers thing again.” Bleu grins.

“You get me out to the hospital after getting mobbed by the media then simply tell me Bleu took care of it .” Jer'rahd growls softly.

“Think of it as training, you should be used to the lack of explaining. I would think you to go that extra mile, just to see the children smile.” Velkorn states.

Jer'rahd flattens his ears looking at the zebra's usual deadpan expression and the manure eating grin on Bleu's face and decided to just give it up. Velkorn had the perfect poker face and Bleu had the worst. In either case he was not sure he would want to hear it now any way.

“Fine, fine, I give. I'm going to head back to the palace before any one else comes around to ask me the same five questions I have been hearing non stop from reporters since I got back from Dullahan.” Jer'rahd groans.

Velkorn looks a little confused and Bleu chimed in.

[“How did you do it, are you currently seeing any pony, what was your relationship with Platinum, do you have any words for the public, are you gay?”] Bleu translates.

“That is quite a lot to say, why is it they think you are gay?” Velkorn asks curiously.

“Attended a wedding, yelled at a ex mare friend, and have rejected most of the offers made to me. Popular opinion went crazy from there.” Jer'rahd sighs.

“I have noticed ponies do tend to speculate, about with whom their famous associate.” Velkorn nods.

“It annoys me. Any how I will see you two back at the castle. I am thinking a nap might be in order for me at this point.” Jer'rahd grumbles.

“Right boss you sure you don't want me to fly you back?” Bleu asks.

“No, I will walk, though Queen Velkorn here might want to avoid the press.” Jer'rahd points out.

“Thankfully I am no longer the queen, another ruler has the throne, to it we have seen.” Velkorn admits.

“That does explain how you two are spending so much time here now.” Jer'rahd nods. “ Good to have you around though. See you two later.”

“Later boss.”

“Safe travels along your way, though I suppose the proper term is simply good day.”

=======================================================

Jer'rahd stepped out of the front door hospital with a pair of armored Guards flanking him as an escort. He made his way into the crowded street, shields being tossed up around the three of them as he walked along, clearing a path to between the throngs of ponies demanding answers and interviews.

He mostly ignored them, his shields and the two guards that had been assigned to him with his new rank were doing quite well at keeping the throngs of ponies off of him. He didn't feel he even needed the Guards, but Princess Luna had insisted, possibly more worried about his doing something to the reporters then any danger he might be in personally.

The reporters persisted until he reached the Castle gates, he left the Guards to make sure none of them thought to follow. He had barely made it two steps past the wall when Starfall grabbed him and all but drug him off towards the castle blacksmith.

It seemed Luna had been thinking this trip through much more than he had and was having new armor crafted for the lot of them. Three suits of armor already rested on a few wooden horses for the final adjustments and one was just set on a table, there not being a wooden dragon to put Bleu's on. Starfall pointed out the features and such on everything as if they were all new toys.

Bleu's suit was fairly light, just a few straps, with a little armor plating here and there and pouches to store things. It was all designed not to interfere with her movement. The entirety of it was also enchanted to adjust to her body size as it changed. However, she could shrink smaller than the suit could match, meaning she could slip free of it if she needed to. It was mostly composed of silver and steel plates with black dyed leather straps. A crescent moon over a shield was etched into one plate along the shoulder.

Rhede's armor was very unlike the ambassador robes he had been wearing. The entire outfit was little more than straps of soft, well worked leather of a very dark brown coloration. It left a great deal of him still exposed and seemed little more than a storage harness much like Bleu's was. The symbol of a crescent moon on a shield rested on a strap on his shoulder.

“Why is he even bothering to wear anything if this is what he is going to wear? At least Bleu has scales.” Jer'rahd snaps.

“Who knows with him .” Starfall sighs.

Velkorn's armor was at least armor. It was a lighter version of the normal Guard armor done up in deep blues and blacks. The plating was lighter than a standard Guards and only seemed to cover vital areas, much of the rest of it was loose enough to offer her a full range of movement for her own sort of fighting style. Steel hoof covers came with this that covered up to the bend on all four legs. The only thing about this that screamed Velkorn was the sheer amount of bags sewn onto the armor. All of them decorated with the mass of medical symbols that had adorned her tent from every race that had need of such services. There was a helmet as well that was little more than a head covering that strapped under her chin. The crescent on the shield was also one of the symbols on her bags.

Starfall was already in hers by the time she finished explaining it, as she worked out the last few kinks. Her armor covered her full body, metal hoof and shin guards set with spikes so she could use them as weapons. The rest of the outfit was purple and black over lapping leather. Her Guard rank of Commander was displayed on her shoulders. She had a pair of goggles hanging about her neck, but her head was otherwise unarmored. The Symbol of the Shielded Moon was over her flanks covering her cutie marks.

The final completed piece drew his attention more than the others. It was obviously designed for Princess Luna. The helm was a steel skull cap with a spot for a horn to slide though that covered her head leaving her ears exposed as well. The Blueish gray metal fell in scales down the dummy’s neck to its back protecting her spine, a breast plate with a crescent moon in the center of it covered the models chest curving along the underside of the form as well, though leaving plenty of room for her legs to move. The wooden horse also had armored hoof and shin guards that seemed sharpened almost into blades themselves. Her back would be covered but her flanks and most of her legs would not be. Of course with her being a goddess it would not be likely she would need to worry much about injury any way. Plus with the little bit of her fighting ability he had seen, she preferred to move around a good deal.

“Well what do you think Jer'rahd?” Starfall asks.

“Well Rhede is an idiot, yours is practical and should do well enough, I rather want to see what the Princess's looks like on her, Bleu really doesn't need anything and Velkorn might have too many bags.” Jer'rahd lists.

“What was that middle part again? Something about wanting to see Princess Luna in it?” Starfall asks grinning wide.

“Have you seen the Princess Fight? I am curious if this is designed enough to allow the movement she needs.” Jer'rahd rambles on not noticing the pegasus's look.

“Oh. Right.”Starfall sighs.

“I did tell you to stop match making. I expect it of Bleu, but not of you Starfall.” Jer'rahd mutters finally catching on.

“What, is it a surprise I want a friend of mine to be happy?” Starfall growls.

“Only with how you are putting my happiness over your own. Have you not even thought of remarrying? Or at the very least dating?” Jer'rahd snaps back.

“I have. But I also have yet to find any pony who has even comes close to making me feel like Loc did. I have no desire to look either, with all my time spent either with my foal or on duty it is not as if I need to dwell on it that often. Unless my annoying friends decide to bring it up.” Starfall snaps back glaring at Jer'rahd as he grins.

“Turn about is fair play, considering what you and Bleu are doing with me. I simply hope that little outburst you tricked me into earlier did not hurt her feelings much.” Jer'rahd chuckles.

He had been standing still letting the smith take his measurements and occasionally commenting on the design while speaking to Starfall. With as often as he got hurt something thicker than normal would be nice. If no one else was going to bother with heavy armor he would take it. It was quite plain that he was probably the least graceful out of all his friends, so since he could not dodge better to have something that could soak up the damage. It seemed Luna had already made arraignments for something like that already as the blacksmiths only needed to make a few adjustments to what Jer'rahd had originally assumed was a pile of scrap iron.

The helm nearly covered his whole head, it had a hole for his horn, but kept his ears covered, a single slit ran from his ears to just over his nose allowing him to see with little hindrance. A chin guard was put into place as well to protect his throat but leave his mouth exposed to allow his use of his sword. Interlocking plates fell over the back of his head and neck protecting his spine. A undercoat of chain mail rings covered him from throat to tail and down to his hooves. A thick breast plate and shoulder pauldrens all adorned with the shielded moon symbol covered his upper body and the interlocking plates covered along his sides and flank as well looking for the life of him like a great armored blanket draped over his back. His cutie mark was hidden, but the metal plate that covered it was stamped with the single star of his rank. His legs were encased in armor as well, various joints worked into it to allow movement. His suit was enchanted as well, though with little more than a spell to muffle the noise of all that metal he wore and lighten it a little. The chain mail under armor was silver but the rest of the armor was black and dark blue. The crafting had taken the earth pony Black smith and his assistants most of the day and used all the metal they had left. He was rather surprised it had only taken them that long but evidently his two unicorn assistants had some spells to help speed up the crafting.

“Can you even move in that thing Jer'rahd?” Starfall asks tapping the armor with a hoof.

“Ooh this is nice. Rather comfortable oddly. Bit more weight than what I’m used to though, lets see what it affects.”Jer'rahd states with a smile.

Jer'rahd charged forward suddenly prompting Starfall to leap out of the way as he went barreling outside into the training area. One of his shields formed a ramp which he ran up and leapt off of, crashing hard atop of a training dummy. The dummy all but exploded under him sending him rolling across the ground as straw and splinters of wood scattered around the yard leaving little sign that they had ever been part of the same construct. As he hit the ground he was already flowing into the next attack his sword drawn and slicing one in half as he bucked another one clean off it's base and then shoulder checked a third pulverizing it. A number of Guards, servants and the blacksmiths joined Starfall in staring at the heavily armored pony crushing through a line of training dummies like a foal playing in the rain stamping puddles.

He finally stopped, panting and grinning wide his green and red eyes glinting under the shadow of his helm.

“The bit of weight is a little slowing, but I barely felt any of the impacts. I LIKE IT.” Jer'rahd laughs.

“Great, just so long as you remember that straw horses don't fight back.” Starfall rolls her eyes.

=================================================

Twilight opened her eyes exhaling a bit at the massive load of information she had just gleaned about the others in the group. Served her right for being curious about them before. It had not exactly been the same as her meeting her friends, but in both situations danger brought them together. Though her friends were not brought together as violently as what brought the five together. It seemed Princess Celestia's memories were wrong again. Jer'rahd seemed more interested in Starfall than Luna. But there was likely a great deal left to go. The second dragon war had not even started yet and aside from the way Luna's armor looked, there was no hint that Nightmare Moon was even a thing.

She sighed and started to write down everything she had seen. There was a lot to process so she found herself going into the sword to rewatch snippets here and there. At the very least nothing horrid had happened this time. She was however a little worried at her teachers sense of humor and attitude in this. Very unlike her, perhaps it had been stress, the Princess had been known to shift rather easily from annoyed to some what silly. But her attitude here was just outright flippant and not at all what she expected. Still, she had not been around her teacher that much since Luna returned. Maybe controlling the sun and the moon for a thousand years had mellowed her out a bit. Still Twilight did notice there was a under current of worry between Luna and Celestia when discussing the Order. Was there something about them that worried the pair?

It was more to add to her list of ever growing questions. She paused considering whether she should ask Princess Luna now that she had the opportunity, but opted instead to finish finding out what she could from the blade first. There were no short cuts to proper research.