I watched as Wade fell to the floor, limp and unconscious. I had to resist the urge to smack him awake. "Didn't I just tell you using more magic puts strain on your body?" As expected, I didn't receive an answer. I huffed and walked over to him, crouching down to feel his pulse.
Well, at least he's alive. Still, he didn't seem to take too much magic into his body at once. It doesn't make sense why he should suddenly collapse like that.
I suddenly remembered the watch that monitored Wade's magic. I grabbed his wrist and turned it till I could see the screen; it read zero. That makes more sense. He must have pushed his body too hard and using such volatile magic didn't help him either. I need to work on increasing his pool of magic somehow. If he's going to collapse just after a training session like this, then we aren't going to get very far.
I grabbed Thunder in my magic and tossed it into the bag along with the rest of my books. I had no intention of leaving the tomes out in the open for anyone to look at. I began to carry the bag in my magic as I leaned down and picked up wade, tossing him over my shoulder. I exited the room shortly after, making my way to the bedchambers. I chose one for wade and dropped him on a bed.
I watched him for a moment, thinking back to my change of plans. I want to teach him many different skills which he can use and practice. Even if I only start him off with the basics, he could always practice on his own time. I still had the money with me that I had 'collected' from my own universe. Maybe I can commission something…
I nodded to myself and morphed back into the pony form. Quickly making a stop to the room next to Wade's I dropped my bag off, but not before choosing a few choice tomes for myself. The basics should be fine for me: Arcwind, Arcfire, Arcthunder and Nosferatu. It might seem like overkill, but I’m not going anywhere unless I was equipped enough to take down an army if need be.
Making a quick transformation, I began to make my way out of the restricted wing that was given to us. Upon exiting the wing, I soon found a set of guards nearby. I grimaced inwardly, this should prove to be an interesting experience.
I walked... or trotted... over to the guards. Their eyes moved to watch me, but they made no other sign of visible movement. I coughed and addressed the one that was higher marked. He seemed to be a Lieutenant, surprisingly. Perhaps Luna had something to do with this? "I was hoping you could direct me to the guards blacksmith. I need to have something commissioned as soon as possible."
"Hmm." The guard on the left let out a huff of air, "Follow me, Lady Robin. I have been instructed to assist you in any way I am able."
The guard on the right didn't so much as twitch, staring straight ahead. The one guard who had spoken walked off, gesturing for me to follow.
I groaned inwardly as he gave me the title of 'Lady'. Either the guard notices me as a noble, or they are simply being polite. I really hope it's the latter.
I caught up to my escort and walked next to him, hanging slightly behind. "Tell me Lieutenant, is the blacksmith skilled in his trade? Also, do you know what metals he usually works with?"
"Master blacksmith Muramasa works in all metals," the guard claimed, taking a left across a courtyard. "Any metal is available, if you have to coin to buy it. As for what is most used, as you can plainly see from our arms and armor, gold is the most used material. After the gear is finished, it is spelled to hold its shape and to resist damage. If you wish for any other extra enchantments, they will cost as such as they are valued."
We made our way across a large lawn, staying on the paved walkway that cut its way through it. We walked past a large compound of a building on our right when I heard a sound that set my blood to boil.
*Fweeeet~!* came a perverse whistle from a guard standing just inside the building. I immediately changed direction, ready to lay into him with all of my rage. A shame my escort beat me to the punch.
"Private Grinding Gears, what exactly do you think you're doing?"
"Uh, sir?" he replied, hesitantly saluting.
"Uncouth conduct as becoming an officer of the royal guard. You will apologize to the crowns guest immediately, and in addition you are to report to KP for latrine duty for the next month."
"But sir!" the guard protested.
"Two months, and if you open your mouth again and what comes out isn't a 'thank you very much sir, my apologies for my misconduct madam' I'll see you thrown in stocks for each night."
The earth pony guard trembled, but finally complied. "Thank you very much sir," he turned to me and bowed his head, "My apologies for my misconduct madam."
"Now off with you, on the double!" With that the earth pony guard trotted away, not even daring to look back over his shoulder.
I did my best to glare a hole right through the back of his head. Once more this situation reminded me how low the Guard has truly fallen over the centuries. Breaking conduct, speaking out of line, insubordination... it's quite sad really. I'd place the blame on Celestia, but it's more Shining Armor's fault.
I huffed and turned towards my escort. "I thank you for handling the situation Lieutenant. It's nice to see that there is some honor within the guard."
He gave a low harrumph. "My apologies that you see us at our worst." He turned and fixed me with an apologetic look, "The younger the mind, the less refined. That private has been a part of the guard for less than a year," he let a low grumble, "He's three years younger than we normally allow. The only reason he was admitted is because he showed such promise." He let out a low, short laugh dripping with cynicism, "If all the guard required was raw talent, we would be in a sorry state indeed. Please don't think ill of him though," he turned off the path, entering a building from which metallic clangs echoed off the walls, "He's still a good kid, if immature. He has the makings to become a great officer in his time."
We traipsed deeper into the building, and the heat increased to near intolerable levels. Looking around, I could see why. Set into a wall about the size of a house, was a gigantic forge with an opening that a treadmill continuously fed fuel through.
Sitting at an anvil, a gigantic earth pony slammed a hammer attached to his foreleg continuously against a bit of red hot metal, shaping it with a fork attached to his other hoof.
He looked up as we walked in, then called out in a squeaky, raspy tone that would not have been out of place in a mickey mouse cartoon. It took all of my willpower to not laugh at the irony of it all. "Lieutenant Elegy Esper, as I live and breath. What, your flimsy coveralls you ordered from the gryphon smiths fall apart again?"
"I bring a guest of the crown," Elegy Esper claimed, "Who wishes to acquire your services. She has been given full rank, and is to be treated as such with all the privileges allowed. Although yes, the darn suit has fallen apart again. Fit me in… say… Tuesday?" he asked with a sheepish grin.
"Waste any more money on that heap of trash, you might as well have just commissioned a suit from me. My work would last through a war, not fall apart in mere training." he turned to me, giving me an appraising look. I got the feeling he was more looking at my robe though, and his eyes lingered on where my sword lay hidden underneath.
"Lassy," he started, grabbing the piece of metal off the anvil with his fork and placing it in a vat of oil, "I can tell by one look yer kit's as good as, iffin not better, than what I could provide. So what," he asked, plopping himself down on all fours, settling into a relaxed position, "exactly do ye need me for, hmmm?"
I smiled as I looked over the various weapons on display. They did indeed seem to be well made, every ounce of devotion and loved poured into each individual arm. "I am currently training a student of mine in various arts, one of which is swordplay. I need to get him a sword, one which can withstand immense pressure. You claim that your work would last through a war. I wish to test that claim of yours."
"Aye," he stated, cracking his long neck, "iffin ye be needin a blade what can stand the test of time, ye came to the right place. I assume yer students a unicorn, otherwise ye woulda led with telling me ye needed a specialty hoof mounted blade, or wing knives. So my next question is thus. What is yer student's style? Do they prefer a long sword or a short one? Do you just intend to get em a sword like the length o' yers?"
What sword would be good for him? He's fairly nimble, and I could guess he's fast on his feet when he wants to be. He wouldn't do well with a longsword or a Greatsword. A short sword would suit him best, something similar to mine.
"How about something roughly the length of my own; a short sword. He's not the strongest, but he more than makes up for it with speed. Now, what metals do you work with?"
He let out a bark of a laugh belaying his high pitched voice. "I work with all metals you runt. Ask and ye shall receive. So, shortsword. Lets work out dimensions before we muddle it all up with talk of materials. Length o yer sword, strange shape. I'm guessin ye use it to channel yer magic. An intrestin shape to be sure. Not my first choice. Will ye be wanting a minotaur hand grip, or would ye prefer to go with the traditional mouth grip? Most o' ye unicorns don' like that," He turned to Esper Elegy and gave him a short guttural laugh, "Get all whiny abou' the taste o' all things. As if that's gonna be the first thing on ye mind when somepony's bearin down on ye, murder in their eyes."
"Most amusing, as always master blacksmith," Elegy responded politely.
"Canno' even get a laugh out o' this lot any more," Muramasa complained, "Like a right lot o' statues. Moving on, would you rather a rapier style blade for thickness, or would a double sided spatha be closer to what ye want?"
I thought about that. If Wade was going to be focusing more on speed, he would need a light sword, easy to swing yet sharp enough to easily pierce flesh. From what I could remember, Rapier's were all of that, but not quite powerful... as powerful as a sword could be.
"I believe a Rapier style sword would be best for his fight style. As for the grip, I'll want it to be a minotaur hand grip. I plan on forcing him to use both magic and physical means to wield the blade. If you're worried that he won't be able to hold it, I assure you, I have a few ideas."
I chuckled, a small glint in my eye. "I'm quite the brutal trainer apparently. I had to carry him to bed because he passed out on me during training."
"PFahaha!" he let out a bellowing laugh, competing for volume with the peals of his hammer before. "Tis true, iffin ye don' grind yer students to the point where they canno' walk ye ain't doin yer job right. Well now we got a style set, what ideally would ye like it made of? A personal favorite o' mine is meteorite. Always leaves off with a nice sheen, or ye could have it made in silver. Everypony likes silver. Never liked it fer blades, personally. The recoil, even behind magical warding always feels… stiff. I guess I should jes ask ye what yer looking fer, jes tah speed things up?"
Of course, magic pony land has never before used metals. All I know are what Humans have made and perfected. Steel is one of the greatest metals as it doesn't rust, it doesn't decay and it's strong. A well balance for a weapon such as a sword. Hmm... Twilight did say it was difficult to come by though, perhaps it's rare in this world? I wonder what its magical properties are. My own blade is made of steel, and it seems to channel magic easy enough.
"Well... that's where it gets complicated. I actually was wondering if you can use steel."
Best not say any more than that. If I'm wrong about the metal, then I'll only look like a fool.
"O' course I can work steel. What, are ye ears full o' cotton? I told ye, I work with any metal. I didn't come by the inane title o' 'master blacksmith' fer lookin pretty," he ended with a laugh. "I will warn ye, it won' be cheap. Not so much fer the labor, but the materials ain't much used, an we don' get much trade of it. A blade like ye be wantin'… would cost me at least two thousand bits fer me tah make it. So in order tah make at the very least of a profit, I'd need tah charge ya at least three hundred more than that."
He turned Esper, and waved a hoof at him. "Oy, you, question. Is she on retainer?"
Esper Elegy gave a short shake of his head. "While she is be given high priority and access to any materials she desires, she has not been given access to the treasury."
Muramasa gave a disgusted snort. "Bah, apologies ma'am," he said, directing his attention to me once again, "Iffin that were the case, I woulda bumped the price up to three times the baseline."
I’m starting to like this pony.
"Sir!" Elegy barked, a surprised look on his face.
"Oh get off it, like it wouldn' go to a good use," Muramasa admonished, quashing Elegy's arguments.
"So that theres the thin of it. Two thousand, three hundred bits fer a quality sword made outta steel. Sure that be the metal ya want? I quite agree that it be a fun metal tah work with, and the color is definitely quite lovely..."
I nodded and reached inside my coat, withdrawing a bulging bag of bits.
I have the money, but there's still the problem of time. I want to get Wade this sword as soon as possible.
"I have here roughly four thousand bits. It's all yours if you’re willing to further temper the steel and place it at the top of your priority. I need this blade as soon as possible, but I still need it to be done right. Think you can handle it, Master Muramasa?"
"For that much coin, I'd be hard pressed ta turn ye away, wouldn' I? I ain't gonna rush it," he walked over to a wicker basket, withdrawing a long bar of metal which he proceeded to place inside the forge, closing the door on it. "A blade takes it's own time to temper, ain't no hoof in Equestria what can quicken that. Seeing as ye want it in steel, it'll hold its shape an' edge easier without any old spell. I'll have a mage down here to enchant it proper like," he gave me a wink, "Mah eyes may be able to see any old spell, but my calling lies in the metal itself. Do ye have any requests fer an elemental enchantment? In addition to the regular ones."
I closed my eyes. I would suggest to infuse it with darkness, but I can already see how that would turn out. Wind would be useful for summoning strong gusts, but I can see the magic being used up quickly. Either Fire or Lightning would work well in this case…
I grunted and opened my eyes. "Yes, I think Fire would work well in this case. Also, are you able to enchant blades so that the elemental property only activates when the wielder wishes it?"
"Of course, what do ye take me for, some hack from Trottingham? All enchantments can be turned on an' off, per the will o' the wielder. Unless I muck up royally, it would last longer 'en you or yer student. An I can personally attest to that, had more than a few blades what lasted longer than their owners." He took a moment to think on it, and continued on a new tangent.
"Used to be they'd make it so you could switch em on an off by twisting the pommel. Right lot o' nutters them. Always switching on an off when ya didn' want em to. So, fire. Would ye like the scabbard ta match it, or jes be a plain wrap?"
"A sword is a weapon of war, it's not meant to be beautiful. Its main purpose is to defend its owner and kill those who threaten them. It's a tool, but should still be treated with care and compassion. A plain wrap will suffice for the blade, unless you can think of a better alternative."
He let out a bellowing laugh that once again echoed off the walls, "A mare after me own 'eart. Off ye go then, I got other orders to fill, an' ye ain't gonna hurry the heating o' the blade by watchin it. I'll 'ave it done by dawn, I can either 'ave it delivered to ye via bluey ere," he pointed at Esper Elegy. Strange, his coat was just as white as any other guard. "Or ye can come pick it up yerself iffin ye want, on yer own time."
"Be on with ye, gonna make me up an start being proper the way yer goin' on. Go on, go on."
"Master blacksmith," Esper Elegy said, bowing to the blacksmith.
"Lieutenant," he replied gruffly, retrieving the block of metal from the vat of oil, inspecting it before opening another door on the forge and sticking it in.
Esper Elegy herded me back outside, and let out a huff of air. "Hoooo, thank Celestia that went so smoothly. Usually it's like trying to pry the teeth out of a hydra with that guy. He must have seen you as a kindred spirit, he is never that cordial with anypony he doesn't like."
I couldn't help but chuckle. I knew exactly why he liked me, I was a 'strait to the point' kinda guy. I don't beat around the bush, and it was clear he didn't either. "I actually found his personality to be rather refreshing. Very straightforward individual, someone I can relate to for sure."
I took a moment took look up at the sun. It was still early enough, and chances were Wade was still out cold. I wonder... I haven't been in an actual sword fight for some time, and here by my side was a Lieutenant that seemed willing to help me. "Lieutenant, It has been some time since I've had an actual duel with another. Would you be so kind as to direct me to the training grounds? I'd be very much interested in fighting against either you or a selected guard's member."
"Hmmm," he stopped, tapping his chin in thought. "That actually brings an idea to mind. You there, Private Crosby," he called out, causing an idle guard to snap to attention. "Are you doing anything at the moment? If not, I have something I need you to do." Without even waiting for him to answer, he continued.
"Go find Private Grinding Gears. Have him report to the training field, full kit. If he's unprepared it'll be his own fault."
"Sir!" the pony named 'Crosby' barked, running off at a sharp trot.
He turned back to me with a slight smile. "I don't suppose you'd be willing to give a demonstration as to why it is improper and unwise to 'catcall' at a visiting dignitary?"
My grin turned sinister, "I'd be more than happy to provide a demonstration for you. Do you have any magic that can blunt a blade though? I prefer to use my own sword rather than a training weapon."
"Of course, a standard blunting spell is a standard tertiary spell taught to all of our combat mages. Apologies, I did not think to offend, I assume instead of standard legion spells you focus on specialized combat spells?" he quickly rectified. "Of course, learning a blunting spell would prove useful on the field, if you were to be able to dull the blade of your opponent to the point where it did not cut?"
I inwardly cursed at my moment of stupidity. I should have known such a spell would be widely known.
I forced my face to remain stoic. "I usually don't worry about such a spell. If I’m drawing my blade, than more often than not I have no intention of blunting it. Rather defeats the purpose.
"You sound as if you've seen some blood," he mused. "I do not envy you."
We eventually made our way to a large, open promenade. There was easily over three hundred ponies, all in full armor and undergoing various levels of exercise or training. One one section of the grounds, a large obstacle course was set up. As we walked closer, one pegasus flew over a tall tower wall, laughing to himself as his partner tried desperately to climb over it. I guess that's what you get when you pair a pegasus with an earth pony.
Elegy Esper led me further on to an open training grounds. Upon seeing us, a lone guard called out-
"Superior officer is present!"
At this cry, everyone in earshot fell into rank, saluting as they did so.
"What in Tartarus are you up to? You think disrupting my drills is a laugh, Lieutenant?" Asked a guard wearing a helmet with a smoothed top. His mane was slotted through in such a way that it poked out through the back like a ponytail.
"Sergeant Knox, sir." Elegy Esper gave a quick salute, "I find myself playing nursemaid to a guest of the crown. She's an experienced swordsmare, and expressed desire to spar with some of the guard."
Knox frowned, but was unable to get off his rebuttal before Elegy Esper continued, looking off to our right.
"Speak of the damned, and they shall appear. Grinding Gears, Private! Over here, on the double!"
The same guard from before arrived huffing and panting from the gear he had attached to himself. At the sight of me, he gave a startled gasp and stared at the ground.
"Private Grinding Gears," Elegy Esper addressed him, "You have been summoned to give you a chance. A chance to repeal your rightfully given punishment. Lady Robin here desires to spar with you. If you accept, and win a two out of three bout, your punishment will be repealed. If you win all three bouts, you will be awarded with three months salary. Do you accept?"
Grinding Gears gaze darted between Elegy Esper and myself, before his mouth formed a determined line.
"I accept."
I gave the private a predatory grin. I could hear some of the other guards whispering among themselves. This was going to be fun. "Well then, it seems you have some backbone in you afterwards. I hope you can provide me a suitable challenge. I've yet to be bested in a one on one duel."
Technically that was true. A good number of my sword fights in the past were duels, even when the guard could have mobbed me. They claimed it was 'dishonorable' to overwhelm a solitary opponent.
"The bouts are standard tourney fare. Each clean strike will gain the attacker a single point," Elegy Esper stated loudly and clearly, waving us over to an area with a series of large squares on the ground. "Magus Turning Point, come here," he demanded, pointing at a unicorn mare three rows back. She made her way forward, and he gestured towards myself.
"Magus, if you would apply a dulling charm on Private Grinding Gears and Arch Magus Robin's weapons, we may commence." He shot me a grin at my surprise of the formal title he had mentioned, "Princess Luna was very specific as to your preferred title in a public setting or event,' he whispered under his breath.
She stepped forward, applying a spell of some sort to the blades Grinding Gears offered.
I revealed the Levin blade from beneath my robe, and there was more than a few hushed mutterings at it's appearance.
"What a vicious looking blade..." Turning Point muttered, casting her spell over my sword.
We made our way to our starting points, and I noticed a hush had fallen upon everyone present. Everyone's attention was focused solely on us. I inspected his chosen weapons, two hoof mounted blades that fit snugly around his front legs. They arched outwards from the sides, slightly bending upwards.
Grinding Gear poked a switch on his helmet, causing two eye covers to pop down, like metal grates.
"There will be no spells," Elegy Esper called out, his voice echoing around the field. "There will be no attacks to the genitals, and if possible avoid the eyes. Speaking of, someone lend Arch Magus Robin their helmet, thank you Private Glory Hollow," a guard stepped forward, removing her helmet. Once her hair was free, her entire color scheme shifted so that her hair turned yellow, and her body became a muted pink.
At my questioning glance, Elegy Esper explained, "Unless the entire uniform is worn, the regiment spell won't function. Mostly used to allow citizens to quickly identify one of the guard.”
I took the helmet, grimacing at it. I plopped it down over my head, and it sucked my hair out the top, making me look like all the other mohawked buffoons here. Thankfully, It didn't change my color scheme any. The eye guards snapped down over my eyes, surprisingly not obscuring my vision. There must have been some sort of spell making them see through from my side.
"First combatant to ten clean strikes wins the round. Two out of three rounds to win the match. Are you ready?" he asked.
"Ready," Grinding Gears claimed, taking a ready stance.
I levitated the blade in front of me, holding it in position with my magic. I'd prefer to stand vertically, but my body might not be able to support such a stance. Perhaps for a short while. I grumbled to myself and twirled the blade around, getting a feel for it in my magic. Once I felt ready, I gave the Lieutenant a nod, letting him know I was ready.
Lieutenant Esper raised a hoof and dropped it. "Let the match begin."
I immediately charged, taking Private Gears by surprise. I swung my blade and nicked him on the side, earning me my first point. I grinned and jumped backwards, returning to my starting position. Grinding Gears had a small scowl on his face, obviously unprepared for my sudden attack.
I decided to probe his response time. When Espers hoof fell a second time, I dashed forward, and executed the exact same attack I had previously. Surprisingly, he actually managed to counter the move I had just done, giving me a small grin of triumph as if it was something to gloat over. I reversed the path of the blade, swinging it back towards his neck by dragging the handle counter clockwise around his block. This type of attack would never work with a held weapon, my own body would get in the way of the reversal. Just one of the many perks of being able to levitate a blade, and step back out of its range.
I was awarded another point, and we started once again. Grinding Gears took the initiative, charging forward with a short leap. Seeing as the fool had gone airborne, I levitated my blade under him, and used it to flip him over my head like a spatula. They somehow actually counted this as a clean strike. I guess the fact that it touched him period was good enough.
He was giving me the stink eye now, and he called out to me, "My apologies, Arch Magus. I sought to try to give you an advantage, to repent for my rudeness," he took this time while talking to flip his blades so they pointed forward, like upside down talons. "It occurs to me now, you don't need any."
"Begin!" Esper Elgey called out, dropping his hoof once more. Grinding Gears feinted forwards, instead circling clockwise around me. I swung my blade at him in a downward slice but he… uppercut it? Uppercut? I have no idea how I would begin to describe the absurdity I witnessed. He lept forward, coiling on his back two hooves as he slid forward on the ground. Then as he got closer, whipped his right foreleg upwards and slammed my blade with his.
The Levin blade was torn out of my magical grasp, flung upwards about eight feet before I regained control of it.
That didn't really matter, or change the fact that Grinding Gears had taken his opportunity to lightly poke me in the chest with his left hoof blade.
"Madam," he said cheekily, returning to his starting point.
I thought about what just happened, the procedure, the follow up attack. I can see now why the lieutenant claimed the lad had potential. He was good, and he knew how to hold himself back. That also showed how skilled he was at combat. However, I've been holding back myself... a lot to be honest.
I laughed, this whole situation was honestly absurd. Here I was playing pretend sword fighting with a pony. No... It was time to take this seriously. I had gotten the feel of my blade after the second round, the movement returning to me as easy as riding a bike. You simply never forget.
The private was giving me a strange look as I calmed myself. "You're good Private, but I've been holding back myself."
I lifted myself onto my hind legs, getting into a position befitting a bipedal creature. I found the position to be strangely comfortable... and familiar. The ponies around me were giving me odd looks. The odd looks only increased when I grasped my sword in my hooves, forgoing my magic. I found it easy enough to wield and I held it point out towards gears, wielding it in a two handed stance. Lieutenant Elsley looked hesitant to start the next round. I nodded at him, letting him know I was ready.
He shrugged and called out, "begin!"
Faster than it should have been possible, I sprinted over to him, remaining on my hind legs the entire time. I swung in a downward strike, hoping to take gears by surprise. He managed to block it, but he staggered back from the sheer force of my strike.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much strength I had in this body. I had expected it to be diminished considering it’s the body of a unicorn, but the makeshift prototype form Twilight had made for me was surprisingly strong. I didn't even feel any pain from my prolonged posture. Twilight must have made this with increased flexibility.
Before gears could recover, I switched the sword to my right hoof and swung it hard against his side. He cried out in pain as I made contact, using too much force behind the swing. Quickly after I jumped back to give us room, still standing on my hind legs.
"Whats with the weird stance?" he called out, putting a hoof forward.
"Round, begin!" Elegy Esper called out, flinging his hoof downward once more.
"It's personal," I snapped, dashing forward, and lunging.
"It's stupid!" he yelped, barely dodging to the side.
"How smart it is, metaphorically or otherwise," I muttered, forcing him to retreat with a flurry of jabs, "Is irrelevant." I cornered him at the edge of the ring, and slapped him with the flat of the blade when he cast a glance behind him. "Seeing as it has long since proven to be highly effective. If you can't adapt, then you might as well DIE!" I called out loudly, catching him off guard. He slipped backwards and fell bodily on his stomach, giving me a free hit as I slapped him on the top of the head with the flat of the blade once more.
"That was cheap!" he complained, getting to his hooves as he returned to his starting point.
"Fight to live, not to win," I replied, bringing my sword back to its ready position. "A true enemy isn't going to fight fair, or even give you a chance to catch your breath." I lectured, returning to my own starting point.
Elegy Esper once more called for the next round to begin. I immediately pressured the private, swinging my blade to the side. He managed to block the strike, but left himself open. I decided to show him the difference between a fight and a spar.
I stepped in close, restricting both of our movement. I quickly followed up by elbowing him in the snout. He yelped in pain and staggered back, making the mistake of raising his hoof to feel his nose. I don't think I broke it, but a little pain never hurt to reinforce a point. With that thought in mind I, without any hesitation, slammed the flat of my blade against the side of his head. Yet another point for me.
He stumbled in place. If I could see his face, his eyes would be rolling about in his sockets most likely. He growled and turned his attention to Elegy, pointing a hoof in my direction. "That's a foul! This is supposed to be a sparring match, not a brawl!"
I scoffed at the notion. "Brawl, spar, duel, it's all the same thing. We are two individuals locked in combat fighting for our lives. In the heat of battle anything can be used as a weapon, even your own body when used correctly. There is no honor in battle, and if you act as such, you-will-lose!"
"She could have stabbed you in the face instead of giving you a love tap like she did," Elegy reasoned, fixing the Private with a cold glare, "She didn't aim for the eyes or the genitals. The strike itself should have counted for the point, but we're beyond that now." He turned to me and gave me a dissatisfied look, "And would you quit playing with your food? We had the mage enforce those dulling charms for a reason. Knock it off with the slap happy tomfoolery. And Gears?" He asked, nonchalantly brushing at a piece of dust on his shoulder, "I feel I must remind you that you only have one point to her seven. Only three more chances before you lose the ability to receive that bonus..."
"Understood sir," the Private replied, wiping the blood from his nose and taking his spot again.
When Elegy Esper lowered his hoof this time, Grinding Gears rocketed off the starting line, a hurricane of whirring blades. I managed to slide my blade in between his mad strikes, throwing him off to the side.
"How are you so strong?!!?" He demanded, lunging forward into a makeshift straight stab. It might have worked, it certainly caught me off guard. As it was, his own legs and the shape of his blades prevented the strike from coming through. It angled upwards, and I encouraged its movement with my own sword.
He stumbled backward, desperately trying to get his own weight under control so he could return to his four legged stance. I didn't give him the chance, turning into a roundhouse kick that slammed right into his upper chest. I really shouldn't have been able to do that with a ponies anatomy, but I found it no harder than normal.
"Point!" Elegy called out, "Two chances left, Gears," he admonished the Private, huffing for breath and flat on his back. "Going to get up some time today, Private?"
"Just admiring the ring from up close, sir," He rebutted, getting to his hooves shakily.
He inspected my stance, then did something surprising. He copied it. Standing up on his back hooves, he put his own spin on it, crooking his front legs into a makeshift boxers stance.
I cracked a smile, "Sure you want to do this? I didn't learn to fight like this overnight."
I snapped my blade up into a ready stance, flashing the blade forward into a quick jab.
He batted at the blade, driving it away. He tried to close the distance, but I kept him from getting to close with a few carefully timed jabs towards his face. He was actually surprisingly competent, keeping me at bay for several minutes before I managed to knock one of his hoof blades loose. He overcompensated for his loss, leading to a loss before long.
He fell back onto all fours, unhitching his other blade and tossing it to the side. "Mind if I switch to a sword?" he asked me.
I nodded and returned to my own starting position. It was becoming clearer with every bout why the Private was accepted into the guard at such a young age. He acted brashly, yes, but he more than made up for it with skill. Of course, there was another reason why he stood out.
"I don't mind in the slightest. If you believe a sword will help you in the next match then take that option. Also... I wish to commend you for your efforts thus far. One skill a soldier must have is being able to adapt to a changing environment. By attempting to copy my stance you attempted to negate an advantage over you. You're a skilled warrior and I can see why the guard has accepted you at such a young age. Of course, I wonder if such praise has gone to your head. Take what you learn from each of these fights and better yourself as a warrior."
"Now, come at me with everything you got!" I challenged, flourishing the blade in my hoof and pointing it at Gears.
He crossed over to where he had laid down his pack, withdrawing a blade only slightly longer than my own. He returned to his starting point, raising up on his back legs. I was struck by the uncanny image of the Private, almost like I was staring in a mirror so close he had copied my stance.
We met halfway between us, each of us striking out with lethal efficiency. Our swords whistled and sang through the air, kissing each other with violent peals and screams of metal. Neither of us gave an inch, our blades ceaselessly fighting to reach the flesh of the other.
As I continued my assault, I noticed something odd. The metal of his sword was starting to bend. Not anything noticeable, but with each hit his sword tried to bend with the strike. It became painfully obvious with each continuous strike, the Levin blade was eating at the enchantments on his sword. It had probably already dispelled the dulling spell and was working at a reinforcement spell now. I had to be careful in the way I ended this.
I took a step back, lowering the Levin blade into a ready position, mimicking the sheathed stance of a Japanese katana. Grinding Gears mistakenly took my stance as an admission that I was retreating, moving straight into range of my strike.
I whipped the Levin Blade upwards at a diagonal angle, faster than either of us could see. I'm sure for him my sword just seemed to teleport, his blade decided to take a vacation. The Levin blade collided with his sword right at the base of the blade. His sword snapped like a twig, leaving him holding the handle with a dumbfounded look on his face as the blade fell to the ground beside him.
I flourished the Levin blade, lightly tapping him on the top of his head with the flat.
"I do believe that the round is mine, Private. Do you still want to go the remaining two?" I asked, watching as he plopped down on all fours and stretched his back painfully.
"I forfeit the match, Arch Magus Robin. I believe the outcome would be more of the same," he said, bowing his head in supplication towards me. "Even if I were able to acquire another sword," He looked around, those watching averted their gazes with embarrassed looks. "It is obvious that I'm not going to win just by mirroring you. I hereby challenge you to a rematch," he fixed me with a determined grin, "two months time, I promise you I'll have improved to the point where its at least a hit for hit. I promise you that." His grin grew slightly wider, and he extended a hoof. "If I don't make it so I win every single round..."
I frowned, while I would enjoy a rematch with the private, two months wasn't possible. I am also unaware of the time difference between our two universes. Two months here could be six months in my own universe. I need a cover story.
I shook my head. "While I would enjoy a rematch, I'm afraid I won't be here in two months time. Less than a week from now I'll be returning to my travels. I wander and study various forms of magic across the globe. I don't know when I'll next return to Equestria, possibly never."
His face fell into a frown, and he silently contemplated my words. He took on a determined look, grinning from ear to ear.
"Fine then, that'll just give me more time to train. I promise you this then." He displayed the broken shaft of the handle, facing it towards me.
"When next we meet, I'll be the one standing victorious. I don't care how much you get better, I'll overtake you by leagues. Just try to stop me," he promised.
I chuckled and pushed the sword back towards him. "Hold onto that and let it be a reminder of this day. Practice hard and you'll go far kid, that I'm sure of."
"The bout is decided!" Elegy Esper called out, shocking us out of our stupor. Looking around, I saw more than a few awed faces, and heard a few hushed whispers.
"Well, is there anyone else willing to step into the ring?" He called out. "I'm sure Arch Magus Robin here will refrain from destroying any more swords, as long as you're careful not to insult her with any sexist remarks..."
"Didn't Gears beat an instructor once?" I heard whispered out in the crowd.
"I heard he took on three members of the reserve guard," a voice replied.
"Did you see the way she snapped his sword? She's a unicorn, for Celestia's sake. How the hay strong is she?"
"That stance was freaky, it was like she was a freaking minotaur..."
"I've never seen anypony fight like that!"
"Is she joining the guard?"
"Are you stupid? She has to be a master, she's probably already a high ranking member of the guard..."
"If not part of Celestia's Iron Hoof," another voice spouted.
Iron Hoof? Sounded like some pony-centric version of an elite guard. Guess even ol sunbutt didn't trust in the incompetence of her own guards.
I looked to the surrounding guards, noticing more than a few averting their gazes. “So, does anyone else wish to challenge me?”
There was shuffling and mumbling, but no one else stepped forward to accept my challenge.
Esper Elegy looked around with a barely contained expression of disgust. “Tell me, Sergeant Knox. Is this the legion you’ve been grooming?”
“You watch your mouth, Lieutenant. You bring in somepony who’s been training with the minotaurs, and you expect my recruits to be ready for that?”
“I thought the point was that they were supposed to be ready for anything,” Elegy Esper rebutted.
“You’re trying to catch me up with your fancy words, Lieutenant. They haven’t trained to fight somepony like her, and you know that.”
Elegy Esper turned to look at me a an apologetic glance. “My apologies Arch Magus. It appears your exercise will have to be cut short.”
I dismissed his apology with a wave of a hoof. “Nonsense, Lieutenant. The whole point of this was to reacquaint myself within the confines an actual fight. I found myself a bit rusty as of late, I haven’t practiced with my blade in some time.”
I glanced up at the Sun, noticing it was roughly half past two. Wade might be out for some time, but I’ll need to rethink some of the training sessions I had planned for him.
“Lieutenant, I believe I’m ready to return to the Castle. I have other matters that require my attention.”
“As you wish ma’am.”
“Hold it,” Sergeant Knox stated, putting himself in our way. “If you want a challenge, come back tomorrow. I know just the bloke that would be more than willing to fight somepony like you.”
I considered the challenge. My time here was to teach Wade, not to further my own skills in swordplay. Then again, it might do Wade some good to see an actual duel. “I’ll consider it Captain. I may bring my student along with me, however, as they would benefit from watching a duel. Is that alright with you?”
“Bring as many backups as you want, ma’am. I’m sure they’ll be given quite the… show.”
“Captain,” Elegy Esper stated dispassionately, making his way around the irate pegasus.
“Lieutenant.” he replied, refusing to move out of the way. We made our way back to the castle in silence, Elegy Esper standing back in position where I had first found him.
“I have to ask, Lieutenant,” I ventured, “Why is it that someone as high rank as yourself finds themselves on simple guard duty?”
He gave me a slight smile, “I was one of the only ponies present with high enough rank to be qualified with the task Luna proposed. She was quite adamant, nopony below the rank of Lieutenant would suffice. Unfortunately there was only two of our rank present in Canterlot at the time, but I hope you’ll feel secure enough with the two of us standing guard for you.”
I smiled and shook my head, it seems Luna really was behind all this. Her infatuation with humans and their knowledge was strong, to be sure. “Indeed I do, Lieutenant. Thank you for performing your duties today and showing me around. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll retire to my room.”
With a nod I turned towards the restricted hallway, heading towards my dormitory. I had to do some planning for tomorrow's studies. Magic to be taught, swordplay taken up, I had quite the challenge set for me. Still, I would teach Wade to the best of my abilities. That I promised myself.
I opened the door to Wade’s room, looking inside. He still lay asleep on the bed, his little bat resting on his chest. Fernando if I remembered correctly.
He didn’t look like he was going to be stirring any time soon. I dispelled the transformation charm, rising back to my true height. Walking over to his side, I inspected his ‘mana count’ via his strange watch. Thirteen. Well, at the very least it seemed to be replenishing itself. I turned it over in my hands, feeling out the spells contained within. I was curious about how the watch operated and what sort of spells were implemented into its design.
Containment, to gather magic that seemed to pool within the diamond inset upon the side. Scrutinize, to keep track of the target's mana pool and to evaluate it. But… hidden underneath… surveillance and… memory?
My blood ran cold, and a trill of cold fury ran through me. There was a spell woven into this watch, with one specific purpose.
To watch... to spy, to keep track of Wade's comings and goings, and to build a bank of memory that could be later accessed.
I glared at the watch before storming out of the room, gently closing Wade’s door. I would be having a... chat with the princesses about this…