//------------------------------// // Out of the frying pan and straight into Veilfire... // Story: Dragon Age: Fading Out // by The Joeker //------------------------------// As I awoke, I felt something warm on my face, I snapped my eyes open and sat up, I saw Barkspawn looking at me perplexedly, with his tongue hanging out after licking me, I wiped my face to feel a strange sensation cross it. "What? have I got something on my face?" I asked him, I looked down and saw... I had gray hands?! gray hooves?! I also had some kind of necklace on… it had the Gray Wardens symbol on, the single lion(imagine it looks identical to Celestia's collar but with the Grey Warden symbol instead of the diamond). Suddenly I spotted a note next to me. Dear Regnier: I have placed you in a world full of talking ponies, my brother and sister were the monarchs there before giving their lives to create the moon and sun, you may want to consult Barkspawn for some lessons on how to walk, to learn your new levitation simply imagine your hands stretching to reach the object and grasping it, the Fade doesn't exist here, but because the Veil is so strong around you and you are a Spirit Warrior and a Templar, you have more control over the Fade than most, you reach out your personal Fade energy to pick things up you can simply pick objects up or hurl them at your enemies, hurling things will tire you eventually however. Now, you are a pony, a tall, horned and winged pony, they are usually royalty, and since you really are you can decide how to approach this, after reading, this note will turn into a royal correspondence between you and this Nation's rulers parents, oh and learn about their culture. You'll get your form back soon... and watch out for Pinkie Pie... Yours Sincerely Markus Greater "So, I'm a pony, stuck in a world full of ponies that talk, I can say, I'm not surprised." I said. I looked over to Barkspawn who was looking at me. "Well, let's go boy." I said and got up, I shakily took a few steps, I stepped into a forest before the ground gave way and I went arse over teakettle down a gorge. "Ow, ah shit! ouch!" I yelled as I fell. When I stopped I got up and stepped forward only to stumble into nettles. "Andraste's sugar tits!" I yelled as I bounced on three legs as one was stinging. I groaned and sucked it up, I walked forward but smacked face first into a tree. "You know, I'd rather face my Calling right now, at least then I can die fighting rather than of broken limbs by smacking into trees." I mumbled as my face was still planted(no pun intended) in the tree trunk, I fell backwards on my ass after prying my face from the tree. I got up and Barkspawn jumped and landed gracefully next to me. I looked behind me and was shocked to see a tattoo on my ass, a Gray Warden symbol, if I was correct. I started to walk and use Barkspawn for leverage at times, eventually I could walk normally as a pony, then run, then sprint before briskly walking with him to the smokestacks we saw, which pointed to civilisation, eventually we came across a cottage, we looked in the windows and found nobody, so we kept walking. Eventually we came across a town, I looked out from a hill at the ponies, I looked out of place, a grey spot in the world as I looked at the realistic color chart before me, I took a breath and Barkspawn nudged me and woofed quietly as if to say 'go on!' I walked down the hill and saw Barkspawn was about as big as the ponies while I towered over them. I walked into town, slowly walking the streets, while the ponies looked on and stared at me and Barkspawn, I smiled slightly, nervously. Some even bowed as I walked, I was used to bowing, but never so sincerely, I usually dealt with nobles who didn't care a bit for me, the ones who did were tired from rebuilding their Bannorn's, but these ponies meant their bows in devotion. I was just walking along, seeing where I could fit in when I felt a slight rush of wind, which, to anyone else, would be nothing but a breeze, but my honed instincts screamed danger and my equally honed reflexes kicked in. I tucked my head beneath me and rolled backwards, luckily I managed to avoid whatever that was and land perfectly from the roll, to be honest this form made it easier, but it didn't bring the same amount of accomplishment because there was less effort, but it still felt good, I saw Barkspawn had moved as well. "Whoo! haha! still got it!" I said and chuckled as I saw a golden flying carriage land where I had been a second ago. "Guys! you almost hit a pony!" came a young male voice. "Sorry! but we were flying high enough to not hit anypony, unless they were an... Alicorn..." I heard, two soldiers reached their heads around and suddenly their look turned to panic and they stood at attention in front of the carriage facing away from me. "Your majesty! please forgive us!" said one. "Guys, the Princess isn't-" started a female voice before poking her head around the carriage before widening her eyes. I walked to the front of the carriage and stood in front of the terrified soldiers. "At ease you don't need to worry, I'm on vacation, I'm just a citizen of this land currently." I smiled and they breathed sighs of relief. I moved around to the side of the carriage and saw a female pony about to step down, obviously someone, or somepony as the guard said, important with the carriage and all. I held my hoof out, not sure how this works, but somehow she managed to wrap her hoof around mine and step down. "Thank you, and sorry for almost hitting you." she said, almost forcing a smile. "No problem." I replied, I noticed my voice was more pronounced and youthful, as if I were younger, I mean I was only 26, but for a Warden that started at the age of 19, that is quite old. "Anyway, maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about. Come on, Twilight, just try!" said a young... Dragon? a Dragonling? a talking Dragonling? Holy shit... my life is insane. Suddenly I looked and saw a pink pony approach. "Um... Hello?" said the purple pony, suddenly the pink one gasped and whizzed away, how she did it I don't know, maybe that Pinkie Pie? The one Markus told me to watch out for. "Well, that was interesting all right." said the purple one. "We never introduced ourselves." I said to her. "No, we didn't." she replied and began to walk away, her Dragon stopped her and said something to her which made her turn around. "Ok, my name is Twilight Sparkle, this is my assistant Spike." she said. "My name is..." OK, I couldn't use Regnier, their names are different... My symbol! "Warden, Grey Warden, this is my dog, my Mabari, Barkspawn." I said and he licked Spike who giggled. "Hey Barkspawn! I'm Spike." he said and played with Barkspawn. "So what are you doing here? you don't seem to want to be here." I said. "We are on official business for the Princess in Ponyville." said Twilight. "What kind of business?" I asked. "You're an Alicorn, and therefore royalty, you should know." said Twilight. "I only knew the Princess's parents." I said. "Ah, we're preparing for the Summer Sun Celebration, the day the Princess saved Equestria." she said. "Err... what?" I asked. "Where did you say you were from?" she asked… crap! gotta think... "Tevinter Imponyum, it's a very faraway land." I said. "And you are king there?" she asked. "Yes." I replied. "Well, your majesty, I am the Princess's student." she said. "So, can I help you setup this Summer Sun Celebration? I've got nothing better to do." I said. I saw Spike nod enthusiastically from my peripheral vision. "Sure, why not?" she said with feigned enthusiasm. "Look, if you don't want me to, just say so." I said. "No, it's fine, I'm just having a... Bad day." she said, I nodded and Spike cheered as we walked away. "So, is it your first time in Ponyville as well?" asked Spike. "Yeah." I replied. "Shouldn't you be ruling your kingdom?" asked Twilight. "I haven't been to court for about... 5 years, I've been searching for something, though I'm beginning it suspect it is the realisation I'm just nothing more than an old fool trying to relive his glory days." I said with a chuckle. "Old? you don't look that old..." said Spike. Before I could reply, Twilight saved my ass. "He's an Alicorn, Spike, they're immortal, remember?" she said, he 'ohhhh'd' and nodded. "Yep." I said. "Summer Sun Celebration official overseer's checklist. Number one, banquet preparations: Sweet Apple Acres." "Yeehaw!" I heard a country voice call. I looked over at an orange pony running at a tree and bucking it to make all the apples fall into baskets. "That's how I train as well." I said, truthfully I actually punch trees to increase my pain threshold, I actually also punch walls… but I haven't got that far yet due to broken bones, my pain threshold is massively improved though. "Let's get this over with... Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle-" "Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight, a pleasure makin' your acquaintance, what about your stallion friend over there?" she asked and shook our hands- hooves. "Warden, Grey Warden." I answered. "I'm Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like making new friends!" she said, both Twilight and I looked apprehensive. "Friends? Actually, I-" she started, her hoof was still shaking from the… hoofshake, I think? "So, what can I do you for?" asked Applejack. Spike laughed as he stopped her hoof from shaking, Twilight glared at him and he snickered. "Well, I am in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. And you're in charge of the food?" "We sure as sugar are! Would you care to sample some?" "I am quite hungry…" I said as my stomach rumbled. "Ok, as long as it doesn't take too long..." said Twilight Suddenly she rang a bell. "Soup's on, everypony!" she yelled. Suddenly we were trampled by a group of ponies. "Now, why don't I introduce y'all to the Apple family?" said Applejack as we suddenly awoke at a table. "Thanks, but I really need to hurry-" started Twilight. "Yeah, we're kinda in a-" I started. "This here's Apple Fritter. Apple Bumpkin. Red Gala. Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp..." She took a breath. "Big McIntosh, Apple Bloom aaaannnndddd Granny Smith. Up'n'attem, Granny Smith, we got guests." She finished. "Wha..? Soup's on? I'm up, here I come, ahm comin'..." said an old pony, reminds me of Nan… "Why, I'd say you're already part of the family!" she said to us as an apple was stuffed into Twilight's mouth and I ate one. "Okay, well, I can see the food situation is handled, so we'll be on our way." Said Twilight and we got ready. "Aren't you gonna stay for brunch?" said a young goddamn cute pony… no dammnit! I'm a slayer of Archdemons! Bandits! I'm a scourge of demons and Darkspawn alike! But she's so cute… like Ser-Pounce-a-lot… "Sorry, but we have an awful lot to do..." They all sighed in disappointment and Apple Bloom gave us puppy eyes… "...fine." relented Twilight. They all cheered and I had the most apple I've ever had ever... As we walked, I saw Twilight was grimacing slightly. "Food's all taken care of, next is weather." Announced Spike, Maker that was good, the best apple I've ever had, and I lived on the best food the best chefs in Ferelden have to offer. "Ugh... I ate too much pie..." groaned Twilight. "I could never have too much pie… mmm pie…" I salivated, even though I'd had plenty of pie, say what you like about me, but I have a weakness for pies, especially meat pie. "Hmm, there's supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds." Said Spike, clearing the clouds? Do these ponies have control of the weather as well? Our mages usually help with that. "Well, she's not doing a very good job, is she?" said Twilight. "You don't sa-" I never finished as I sensed danger again and hit the DECK! Suddenly a cyan blue Pegasus crashed into Twilight and sent her into the ground, in hindsight I should've took the blow… "Uh, 'scuse me?" asked the Pegasus as she recovered quickly and was flying, likely to avoid any possible wrath from the purple anti-social, now angry unicorn. I helped Twilight up who groaned as she was covered in mud. "Lemme help you." Said the Pegasus and brought a raincloud over and jumped on it, washing and soaking Twilight. "Oops, I guess I overdid it. Um, uh, how about this? My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry!" exclaimed the Pegasus who I now assumed was Rainbow Dash. She quickly encircled Twilight, creating a whirlwind, and drying her off, but leaving her with an afro. "Hmm, more effective than having magic used, it usually ends with singed hair…" I reminisced, it was when I let Morrigan dry me off after I tripped and fell into Lake Calenhad… "No no. Don't thank me. You're quite welcome." Said Rainbow Dash Suddenly Spike burst out laughing. "Let me guess. You're Rainbow Dash?" Stated Twilight. "The one and only. Why, you heard of me?" asked Rainbow. "You sound like my friend Zevran… 'you've never heard of me? Never heard of the Crows?'" I said in my best Zevran accent. "I heard you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear… I'm Twilight Sparkle, and the Princess sent me to check on the weather." Sighed Twilight. "Name's Grey Warden." "Yeah, yeah, that'll be a snap. I'll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I'm done practicing." She said and laid back on a cloud. "Practicing for what?" asked Twilight. "The Wonderbolts! They're gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I'm gonna show 'em my stuff!" said Rainbow. "Now you sound like Cailen… trying to impress and cater to my Order, hmm, well, good luck." I said. "The Wonderbolts?" asked Twilight, sounding unconvinced. "Yep!" exclaimed Rainbow. "The most talented flyers in all of Equestria?" asked Twilight, being a Master of Coercion, I could see where this was going. "That's them!" "Pfft! Please. They'd never accept a Pegasus who can't even keep the sky clear for one measly day." Said Twilight. "Hey, I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat!" claimed Rainbow. "And I'm royalty, I could put in a good word for you, but it doesn't look like the job-" I stopped as she whooshed away and I timed her. "Loop-de-loop around, and wham! What'd I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. I'd never leave Ponyville hanging." Said Rainbow. "Hmm, impressive." I said, I truly had seen more impressive things than that, no joke… how the hell do you juggle small rodents to Orlesian ballads anyway? "You should see the look on your face. Ha! You're a laugh, Twilight Sparkle, and you as well Grey Warden. I can't wait to hang out some more." Barkspawn woofed. "This is Barkspawn, my hound." I said and she went right in his face as if judging him and he licked her, leaving a slobber trail on her cheek, she smiled and laughed. "You too Barkspawn." She laughed and sped away. "Wow, she's amazing!" said Spike and flicked Twilight's new hairstyle. "It's not that bad." I said as we walked, leaving Spike. "Wait! It's kinda pretty once you get used to it!" called Spike. We walked to the town hall, to check on the decorations, Barkspawn waited outside. "Decorations. Beautiful..." said Spike as we looked, it was comparable to my wedding/coronation. "Yes, the décor is coming along nicely. This ought'a be quick. I'll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed." Said Twilight as we looked around. "It is very nice." I said. "Not the décor, her!" exclaimed Spike and pointed at a white pony with three diamonds on her ass. "No, no, no, oh! Goodness no." she said… Orlesian? Sounds it, Orlais doesn't exist here however, I was brought up to despise Orlais, but I don't, it was another time, things have changed, Orlais has changed. "How are my spines? Are they straight?" he asked. "Yes, just don't make the fact you're swooning over her obvious, compliment her, and act cool." I said as Twilight began conversation, I remember Zevran flirting with me... so I know how to flirt… to a degree. "Good afternoon-" started Twilight. "Just a moment, please! I'm 'in the zone', as it were. Oh, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent. Now, um, how can I help yo- ohhh! Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!" asked this 'Rarity' holy hell, she even spoke Orlesion… "Oh, you mean my mane? Well, it's a long story. We're just here to check on the decorations, and then we'll be out of your hair!" said Twilight, I smiled to Rarity and bowed slightly and she blushed a little. "Out of my hair? What about your hair?! Your coltfriend there has wonderful hair for a male." Smiled Rarity and started to push Twilight. "We're not together." I said and Rarity smiled for a second before pushing her even stronger. "Wait! Where are we going?! Help!" exclaimed Twilight and me and Spike were confused as we followed. We headed to a building that looks like a magic carousel that says 'Carousel Boutique' the name… Orlais… this is driving me crazy… "No, no, uh-uh. Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too... shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you're from, and your friend over there is an Alicorn which makes him as royalty." Said Rarity, she seemed to be acting almost, first impressions and all that, unlike Orlesian nobles, she seems quite down-to-Thedas or wherever the hell we are... "No longer, I've been travelling for a good long while, this is just my next stop and I thought I'd catch this 'Summer Sun Celebration' that is the topic of discussion." I smiled, I knew how to work Orlesian politics, I was sent there for a year after all, and according to Leliana, without prior instruction, I played the Game exceptionally well. I saw Rarity trying to fit Twilight with a corset, ouch... "Well… I've... been sent... from Canterlot... to-" to wheezed Twilight before Rarity let go of the string she was pulling and Twilight went flying. "Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can't wait to hear all about it! We are gonna be the best of friends, you, you and I..." smiled Rarity and hugged Twilight and I close. "Why not?" I asked with a roll of my eyes, she reminds me of Leliana come to think of it… "Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!" exclaimed Rarity and ran. "Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat a new color!" shouted Twilight and we sped off. "Wasn't she wonderful?" asked Spike as he climbed on Twilight's back. "Focus, Casanova. What's next on the list?" asked Twilight. "Oh, uh, music! It's the last one!" exclaimed Spike, music in Orlais and Ferelden are very different, but all are beautiful to me, I wonder what the music is like here? I heard birdsong in the distance… it sounded amazing, I remember Leliana singing to us in camp, she had a beautiful voice. We entered a clearing among a maze of bushes, and saw a bird choir and a yellow pony conducting them. "Oh my. Um, stop please, everyone, umm. Excuse me, sir? I mean, no offense, but your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off. Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one two three-" started the yellow pony before Twilight greeted her. "Hello!" exclaimed Twilight and the poor yellow pony jumped out of her ski- I mean, fur and yelped. "Oh my, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to frighten your birds. I'm just here to check up on the music and it's sounding beautiful." Said Twilight. "You need to synchronise your melody, bring your harmonies together and it will be perfect." I said, Twilight glanced at me and I shrugged, truly it was because in my travels I've heard so many songs and been taught many lessons over campfires by Zevran, who surprisingly loved music and Oghren who taught me the Tavern classics, and of course, our bard, Leliana… "I'm Twilight Sparkle… What's your name?" "Um... I'm Fluttershy." Muttered Fluttershy, it was too quiet for the average pony to hear but over time I've learned to pick out certain conversations in a room of noise, so one quiet speck was no problem. She reminded me of Morrigan when she first left the wilds, a little nervous, not that she showed it, but I could see it, unlike Fluttershy, who practically screamed it. "I'm sorry, what was that?" asked Twilight. "Um... My name is Fluttershy." She said even quieter, even I had to strain to hear. "Didn't quite catch that." Said Twilight. Fluttershy squeaked and cowered as her birds came back. "Well, um, it looks like your birds are back, so I guess everything's in order. Keep up the good work!" exclaimed Twilight and we walked away where Spike was waiting from 'relieving' himself in a bush and Barkspawn who was doing the same. "Oookay, well, that was easy." Smiled Twilight. "A baby dragon!" exclaimed Fluttershy and dashed toward us. "Andraste's ass!" I exclaimed and ducked again as Twilight was grounded… again… I really needs to stop moving and putting Twilight in harm's way… "Oh, I've never seen a baby dragon before. He's sooo cute! And that dog! I've never seen a breed like it! He's a fluffy little boy!" exclaimed Fluttershy, Barkspawn had an expression that could only be described as 'not amused' he hated being called cute by anyone except Leliana. "Well, well, well...!" Spike folded his arms and Barkspawn stood proudly, he knew how to make an impression. "Oh my, he talks. I didn't know dragons could talk. That's just so incredibly wonderful I, I just don't even know what to say!" exclaimed Fluttershy as I helped Twilight up again. "Well, in that case we'd better be going." Said Twilight as Spike was placed onto her back and we walked. "Wait, wait! What's his name? and his name?" asked Fluttershy and pointed to Spike and Barkspawn with her hooves. "I'm Spike." "That's Barkspawn." "Hi Spike, I'm Fluttershy. Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about?" asked Fluttershy, well, I wish I had time to sit down to tea with the Archdemon... Because of the fact the Archdemon is... was a Dragon, I did my research, I know a lot about dragons and could probably make good conversation with him, but hey, he has a sword through his face and I claimed the bones and head as trophies, so I win. "Well, what do you wanna know?" asked Spike. "Absolutely everything." Said Fluttershy, luckily, I had trained as a Templar with Alistair but didn't learn the abilities or take Lyrium, so I had really good mental focus, Twilight groaned and was unhappy while I focused, I said the Chant of Light to myself as accurately as I could and at times repeated the Grey Warden vigil, also being a Spirit Warrior meant the Veil was more open to me, so I transferred my mind to the Fade so I could focus. "Well... I started out as a cute little purple and green egg..." he started as I zoned out, I would subconsciously follow Twilight... I heard the story coming to an end, so I yanked myself back to reality. "...and that's the story of my whole entire life! Well, up until today. Do you wanna hear about today?" he asked as I prepared to zone out again. "Oh, yes, please!" exclaimed Fluttershy as Twilight spun around, almost sending Spike off her back, I then saw the most literal interpretation of a tree house in the history of anything. "I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast? This is where I'm staying while in Ponyville and my poor baby dragon needs his sleep." Said Twilight "No I don't- whoa!" he exclaimed as she deliberately threw him off. "Aww, wook at dat, he's so sweepy he can't even keep his widdle bawance!" said Twilight in a childlike voice, Spike did not look amused. "Poor thing, you simply must get into bed..." said Fluttershy and flew him into the tree, not as in, in a hurtful way... Oh you know what I mean! "Yes, yes, we'll get right on that. Well, g'night!" exclaimed Twilight and pulled me and Barkspawn inside and slammed the door on her. "Huh. Rude much?" asked Spike. "I agree, she was simply curious." I said and raised an eyebrow. "Sorry, Spike, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we're running out of time! I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where's the light?" asked Twilight, she bumped into me and I looked at her. "I require an explanation." I said, she began to explain but Barkspawn growled and I stopped. "Wait.. we're not alone…" I said, I could make out faces in the dark, Twilight cautiously switched the light on. "Surprise!" yelled a bunch of ponies. "MAKER'S FLAMING BALLS!" I yelled and jumped so high into the hair I felt my head lightly touch the ceiling, Sten would be proud... Twilight groaned as I steadied my breaths "Surprise!" yelled a pink pony and blew a party whistle. "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh?" she said and got very close. "Back up please." I said and she nodded and backed up a little. "Very surprised. Libraries are supposed to be quiet." Groaned Twilight, I had to agree. "Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y'see, I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all [deep gasp] But you…" she said to me. "Me?" I asked. "Yeah, you were like-" she said and put on an exaggerated serious face, I didn't think of myself as serious… "Ok…" I said. "Remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville!" she said "I'm confu-" she cut me off and kept rambling. "And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went [deep gasp!] I must throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!" said Pinkie Twilight poured a drink and drank it by levitating it as Pinkie rambled on. "Are you all right, sugarcube?" asked Applejack, I saw she had drank hot sauce… she practically became a kettle and then a train whistle. I saw tears streaming down her face from the spice and she ran upstairs, if the spice here was like back home... well… "Aww, she's so happy she's crying!" said Pinkie Pie. "Hot sauce… ooh..." said Spike, Pinkie poured it on a cupcake and ate it. "What? It's good!" said Pinkie. I decided to take a jug of milk up for her, I went into the kitchen this place apparently had, time to try my 'magic'… I faced the jug and concentrated, hoping something would happen, a gray aura surrounded it but it didn't lift, I tried and concentrated harder… suddenly I remembered the note… I imagined my hand as a human picking the jug up and it worked, I walked through the party that was starting, Barkspawn seemed to be enjoying himself so I let him stay. I went upstairs finding Twilight under the tap, drinking water, these taps look different to ours, ours are more advanced, made from Fade-Touched Silverite. I went over to her and she gasped when she saw my shadow and spun around, she breathed a sigh of relief when it was me. "Soudn't uu beh enjoyen tha partey?" asked Twilight with her tongue out from the hot sauce, I presented the jug of milk and she grabbed it in her aura and gulped it. "It's fine, if your hot sauce is anything like ours, you must be having the worst time." I said with an amused look. "Yeah, I've had better." she said as she sighed happily from the milk and had some around her mouth. "I can imagine." I chuckled. "So you asked for an explanation." said Twilight and sat down. "I did." I confirmed. "Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria; there were two regal sisters who ruled together, and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn. The younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects; all the different types of ponies. But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness, Nightmare Moon. She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom. the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon, and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since." said Twilight. Raise the sun and moon? this Princess must be very powerful... "The night? I love the night, sometimes I lie there and stare at the stars and moon, being through what I have, you learn to appreciate life for far more than it is, you look beyond simple mortal confines and look at the bigger picture, night may well be when the monsters come out, but it is also when the wise owls, and other wonderful creatures come out, night is not just a time of day, but a time of it's own." I said. "That was amazing, I'd like to hear some stories one day." said Twilight. "Maybe one day, yes, are you going to continue your research?" I asked. "No, the other ponies are crowded in front of the bookshelves, I need some sleep." she said. "Me too." I yawned, come to think of it, I haven't slept in about a day! "Do you have a house?" she asked. "No, I usually set up a camp." I said. "Here, there's a spare bed there." she said and pulled it out with her magic. "Thanks." I said when she laid down I pulled the sheet and pillow down and slept on the floor, after living on the road for years, I've grown accustomed to sleeping on the cold hard ground. I sighed as I lay down and fell asleep instantly, my sword at my side. A couple hours later, I felt something and awoke quickly, I heard the door open and saw Twilight with a pillow over her head. “Hey Twilight! Pinkie Pie's starting "pin the tail on the pony"! Wanna play?” asked Spike, Barkspawn walked over to me and licked me and I petted him. “No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?!” asked Twilight, I felt it was around 11:00, I had a great internal clock, all the time in the Deep Roads I think. “It's the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they'll miss the Princess raise the sun! You really should lighten up, Twilight. It's a party!” exclaimed Spike and shut the door. “Wish I knew about that tradition…” I chuckled and got up. Twilight mockingly imitated Spike. “Ugh, here I thought I'd have time to learn about the Elements of Harmony but, silly me, all this ridiculous friend-making has kept me from it! "Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about everlasting night." I hope the Princess was right... I hope it really is just an old ponytale...” said Twilight, I sat next to her on the bed. “Twilight, on my journeys, when I first started, the group I was with were doubted when we were the experts on a threat that was rising, we were the only ones who could stop it, the ultimate shield against it, we were doubted and many of us died, after that, I stopped the threat pretty much by myself, on the journey I have discovered many supposed ‘’legends’ that I have proved were true, basically I have proven not to take anything at fa- err muzzle value, I have seen too much, so I guess I’m saying I believe you.” I explained. “Really? Nopony else believes me, thanks.” She said. “C'mon, guys, it's time to watch the sunrise!” exclaimed Spike. “We’re coming dude.” I said and got up, I put the scabbard on. We walked to the town hall again and suddenly I felt s sense of dread overtake me, this usually happens right before something bad is about to happen, I first felt this just before Ostagar, look what happened, before the Tower of Ishal, look what happened, just before we met Branka, look what happened. “Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited- well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went [deep gasp] but I mean really, who can top that?” “Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!” exclaimed the mayor and everypony cheered, I saw Twilight looking nervous, and so was I. I took a breath, steadied myself and cast my gaze over the room from the corner I was in, because Loghain had taught me how to be Master Tactician, I knew to keep my gaze on my charges at all times, then I kept my head straight but moved my eyes to the balcony, I couldn’t feel anybody there, being a Reaver, I could feel heartbeats, it’s what gives us the Blood Frenzy, the heartbeats drive us on. “Balcony. Collapsible. If enough pressure is applied. Ponies. Civilians, need to keep out of harms way. Mayor, could calm them down, Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Possible backup. Pinkie Pie. Could run interference. Rarity, could also distract. Fluttershy, keep out of conflict. Royal guards, also backup, although guards aren’t much use and get in the way, and usually just add to casualties.” I went over a plan in my head, suddenly Pinkie popped up. “Hey!” she said. “Good evening Mrs Pie.” I said. “It’s just Pinkie, Mrs. Pie is my mommy! Say, what’re you doin’ in the corner?” she asked. “Keeping watch, I hope to meet with the Princess in private, I wish to talk with her.” I said. Suddenly Pinkie almost teleported back by Twilight. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria...” heh, some title… I got ready, either to see the Princess, to see the enemy or see nothing, I saw Twilight look up during the speech and so did I, suddenly, the stars aligned, into… the Maker constellation? It remained like that for but a second before displacing into a random constellation, then the face in the moon also disappeared… “Ready?” I heard Fluttershy, even through the crowd and the speech. “...Princess Celestia!” exclaimed the mayor, I moved to Twilight’s side as the fanfare played and Rarity pulled a cord, the curtain opened and... Nothing… “Huh?” asked Rarity, Twilight shifted her gaze to me for a second, meanwhile, I turned a scowl to the balcony. “This can't be good.” Said Twilight. “Remain calm, serene, always in command of yourself, you will then find out how easy it is to get along.” I said, Twilight took a breath and nodded. “Remain calm, everypony, there must be a reasonable explanation!” exclaimed the mayor. “Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games! Is she hiding?” asked Pinkie. “In war, victory, in peace, vigilance, in death, sacrifice.” I said to myself quietly. “She's gone!” exclaimed Rarity. “No, really?” I asked, suddenly I felt a temperature drop, it went unnoticed by the ponies because of their fur. “Ooh, she's good.” Said Pinkie before yelping They all gasped I turned my head and saw a blue mist, but it was an evil mist- you know, no, I can't- [sigh] an evil mi- really? Ok… I raised an eyebrow at the mist, but I knew never to underestimate your enemies, I couldn't believe the ponies were surprised, it's their legend! “Oh no... Nightmare Moon!” said Twilight and ducked her head. “Stay calm kid, Warden’s on the case.” I winked at her and became a Spirit Warrior, I’d learned how to use the Fade around me as a cloak, so I disappeared, time to set my plan in motion. “Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious, little sun-loving faces.” She said. “What did you do with our Princess?!” demanded Rainbow Dash and tried for her. “Whoa there, Nelly...” said Applejack holding her tail. “Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am?” “Hey, I got a question, why do we give a crap?” I asked, she did a 90° turn to see me leaning against the wall. “Hmm, a male Alicorn I see, and one with a mouth, I thought the stallion Alicorns died off due to their war-like nature.” Said Nightmare Moon with a raised eye. “Wouldn’t know love.” I said. “Hmm, well it's good to know there’s at least one left…” said Nightmare. “Why? There’s no way I’d… with you.” I said. “Why not? Am I not… exquisite enough? Not… mare enough? Or is there another?” asked Nightmare and sashayed her hips and trotted over to me, I kept my stone face. “Can't say there is.” I said nonchalantly and bit an apple. “In any case, the race I knew wouldn’t life a wing to help these… subjects.” Said Nightmare. “Well, times have changed, being the last of my race has made me see more than I can imagine, these ponies are not pawns in a game of chess, they are the true kings and queens, we are the pawns, that should listen to them, from what I’ve seen so far, the Princess understands that.” I said. “How dare you! Do you know who I am?!” she exclaimed. “Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um, Hokey Smokes! How about... Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty-“ said Pinkie before an apple was stuffed on her mouth. “Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?” asked Nightmare. “1000 years is a long time, plenty of time for successors and the such, plus trying to overthrow the current monarch puts you in a difficult position, Nightmare Moon.” I said. “I did. And I know who you are. You're the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon!” said Twilight. All the ponies gasped, these ponies really are dumb… “Well well well, someponies remember me. Then you also know why I'm here.” She said. “You're here to... to...” said Twilight and started to panic a little. “Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!” exclaimed Nightmare Moon. “First of all, this is so funny, I’ve taken on demons, Darkspawn, magic trees, and the frickin’ Archdemon! And here, a blue furry, kind of cute pony is trying to tell me she’s going to best me? This needs to be written down as the most suicidal thing ever.” I laughed in stitches. “Do not mock me sir, you will regret it.” said Nightmare Moon. I suddenly stopped laughing and got up, pulling my best ‘not amused’ face, I approached Nightmare and her ears flattened as she saw I was about a foot/hoof taller than her…