//------------------------------// // Song Of Pain, Bards, and Luminards // Story: Ynanhluutr // by Imploding Colon //------------------------------// “So... uh... you're not mad at me for having wandered in here?” Rainbow Dash asked. Antsan chuckled while the two trotted slowly towards the front entrance of the two-story shack. “Please, do not misinterpret my motives for escorting you outside. Quite simply, there are many pilgrims here who need solitude and concentration in order to properly meditate before the Reed. On the contrary, Rainbow Dash...” The branching braids of his red mane wobbled as he turned to smile at her. “...I find your insatiable curiosity to be extraordinary.” He nevertheless sighed. “It is also sadly lacking among the majority of Rohbredden's foals these days.” Rainbow nodded. “I'm guessing that not a lot of ponies come here to the Quade as of late.” “With each passing decade, our numbers grow fewer and fewer,” Antsan said in a melancholic breath. The two wandered past candles and wooden support beams. “The pattern used to be different, with pilgrims coming to bask in the shadow of Luminar's Plight every other century or so. It would seem as if the influx has been on a steady decline, which is sad. I—like so many of my brothers and sisters—fear for the well-being of Verlaxion's children. It would be a shame for sin to devour all that's glorious and humble of us. I often dread the possibility of a second Plight.” “Huh?” Pinkie Pie blinked, glancing aside. “A second one?” Rainbow looked at Antsan. “Do you really believe that?” She fidgeted. “Err... that what happened to Luminar could... s-somehow happen again to Rohbredden?” “As unpleasant as it is to comprehend, it's still the fulcrum of our teachings,” Antsan said. “The Word of Reed maintains that sin lies in weight to devour all of us, bringing our bodies into shadow along with our spirit. The children of Verlaxion have been caught off guard before. At this rate of ignorance and apathy, a second apocalypse is only inevitable.” “Imagine if they put that in their recruiting slogans!” Rarity said, tossing her mane. “Heh... ever thought of starting a conversation with the whole 'apocalypse' biz?” Rainbow Dash asked, smirking. “Seems like it'd be more to the quick.” “Oh, do believe me. I've dreamt of it. Suggested it, even,” Antsan said. “However... I would be the first pilgrim to admit that proselytizing isn't exactly my strong suit. Kyron—our elder—has turned down my ideas for reforming the mission statement several times in the past. He believes—and rightly so, I must admit—that the focus of our message should be redemption within the glory of the Reed.” “I'm guessing that doesn't exactly sit right with you.” Antsan scuffled to a stop, staring pointedly at the pegasus. “It doesn't matter how I sit with it. Kyron is the wisest among the anointed, and it would be folly of me to challenge his opinions.” Rainbow winced slightly. “My bad. I didn't mean to suggest anything—” “It's quite alright,” Antsan said with a soft smile. The thorned hooflets around his fetlocks rattled as he gestured. “Still, I do think that the world outside the Quade has... changed in Kyron's lifetime. It no longer responds to concepts of joy and salvation. Instead, all is confusion and exploitation and fearmongering. In this environment, a message that appeals to self-preservation would hold greater weight than that which promises salvation.” “Wow...” Rainbow smirked. “If I didn't know better, I'd say you've seen a lot of that nasty 'environment.'” Antsan took a deep breath. “I may be freshly anointed when compared to my fellow pilgrims, but I carry the weight of many sins on my shoulders. And I still possess the youth and faculty of mind to remember the horrible realities out there in the sea... along with their costs...” Rainbow bit her lip. Antsan exhaled through a weak smile. “Alas... I no longer live to bask in misery, but to rejoice in the blessings of the Reed.” He shuffled forward to the front entrance. “I only desire that more would follow the path that I did, so that there would be less suffering in the world.” “Well... uh...” Rainbow glanced at Twilight and the others as she scratched her head. “I guess that's pretty... noble?” “Each of us have a different, glorious reason for why we are called.” Antsan looked at her. “Have you ever wondered what your calling may be, Rainbow Dash?” “Eheh...” The pegasus shrugged as the two stood on the platform just outside the shack. The last slivers of daylight wafted through, drawing crimson bands across their bodies. “Dude, I'm not gonna front. I just now got here. In all honesty, I'm only visiting. Passing through, y'know?” “Ah... but it takes an awful lot of commitment to pass through the Quade,” Antsan said with a smile. “The power of living here is precisely how difficult it is. Nopony visits unless something has drawn them. And I wonder... what has drawn you, Rainbow Dash?” “I... uhm...” Rainbow glanced at the thick shaft of shoots running up and down the platforms. Yaerfaerda's golden light bled through the Reed like a candle behind the veil. It somehow felt as though—the greater distance Rainbow put between herself and the shoots—the more visible the entirety of the symbol was. “I guess you could say that I follow a conviction of my own.” “There was a time in my life when I felt as though I had a masterful understanding of the world, Verlaxion, and the forces at work behind everything,” Antsan said. “Then I heard a pilgrim out beyond the Quade preaching the Word of Reed.” He took a deep breath, his ice blue eyes turning glossy. “I felt the glory of Verlaxion speaking to me in a way that I had never been illuminated before. Like the thawing of Rohbredden after the Unification of the Six Tribes, something deep inside my heart melted away. I felt like crying and laughing all at once. I needed more. I hungered... and that hunger took me here.” “Awwwwwww... that's really sweet!” Pinkie said. Two blinks later, her muzzle scrunched. “I think?” “Well, I'm glad you... uh... found your calling,” Rainbow said. “Mmmm... it has not been an easy pilgrimage,” Antsan said. “I had to give up a great deal to approach the path towards enlightenment. But—as I buried more and more of my sins within the shadow of Luminar's Plight—I discovered the extent to which my body and soul had previously been enslaved.” His eyes narrowed. “Through labor and pain, the truth is exposed, and the essence of a foal of Verlaxion is truly liberated. It takes more than faith to reveal this... it takes commitment... and piety.” “Yeah...” Rainbow glanced at the scars on his fetlocks, then back at his contented expression. “I gathered.” “Rainbow Dash...” Antsan drew closer. “If I may be so bold...” His thin eyes gazed into her. “...have you ever felt constrained by the weight of your own sins?” Twilight blinked. She and Rarity looked at Rainbow. Rainbow gazed back at the stallion. She gulped. “Look, dude, I can tell you've been through a lot and... all this 'Reed meditation' has worked for you, but as for m-me—” “You've never felt the dark veil of doubts and fears enveloping you each night?” Antsan asked, his voice cool and steady. “The distinct sensation that no matter what you do and how far you throw yourself, this world will still remain blind, uncaring, and unfeeling?” “Well, each pony is different, y'know?” “A simple excuse we tell ourselves to avoid the pain,” Antsan said with a nod. “I speak of a pain that's everlasting... all-consuming... devouring.” He leaned back. “Truth is, Rainbow Dash, the Plight of Luminar is everywhere. What happened here in the Quade thousands of years ago is simply a symbol for what's happening everywhere all the time. We try to ignore it... and sometimes through distractions and comraderie we find ways to gloss it all over. But in the end, our sins catch up with us. Misery is the greatest monster we all must defeat. The sad truth is that most ponies fail in the long term.” “So... uhh...” Rainbow narrowed her eyes. “What's your solution? Defeat these... sins by giving up everything else?” She gulped. “Including what makes you you?” Antsan chuckled breathily. “When it comes down to it, how special is a single pony? Really? That voice inside our heads that tells us that the needs and liberties of a single soul outweighs everypony else? Does it truly make sense? Or is it just another conceit of our collective sins, seeking to blind us all?” Rainbow's nostrils flared. “If this is gonna come down to a dissertation on sacrifice, buddy, I've given up my fair share. Believe me.” She gulped. “But I still haven't given up on what makes me me.” “Then why do you strike me as a pony who still can't find a home to stop and live?” Rainbow Dash opened her muzzle—but lingered. Her eyes blinked. Antsan bowed, saying, “Many ponies are called to the Quade, and all for the same reason. The tragedy is in the fact...” He lifted his head back up, smiling at her. “...that most of them ultimately leave. Sin and doubt drags them away. And are they truly better off for it?” He turned around and trotted back inside the shack. “The Reed can grant you many things, Rainbow Dash: peace, enlightenment, redemption. But most of all, it can give you a reason... to not have to seek anymore.” Rainbow watched as he disappeared once more into shadow. “Hmmmpff!” Rarity upturned her nose. “Of all the nerve!” She folded her forelimbs. “Call him back here, Rainbow Dash! Tell him that he doesn't know you!” She barked into the shadows with angry futility. “Do you hear that, you raggedy-hair'd ruffian?! You do not know our Rainbow Dash!” “Rarity, give it a rest,” Twilight muttered, sighing. “It won't make any use.” “But you heard him and his awful attempts to throw guilt Rainbow's way—!” “Twilight's right,” Rainbow muttered. She turned around, wings tightly coiled. “Let him believe what he wants to believe.” She shuffled up the ramp towards the adjacent platform. “It doesn't matter. None of this stuff really matters—” “I take it you had a talk with Antsan,” Menthe said with a cool smile. “Gah!” Rainbow jumped back, kicking her hooves up. She settled in place, panting for breath. “Dude! Where'd you come—?” Menthe leaned casually against a wooden post between the adjoining platforms. His light blue coat rendered him a veritable shadow in the setting sunlight. “For a mare who really needs to make water, you certainly do take your sweet time about it.” He arched an eyebrow. “Not to mention several detours.” “Uhhhhhh...” Rainbow gulped, shrinking back with a guilty smile. “Just... h-how long have you been... trailing me?” “Ever since you convinced my protege that you needed to use the facilities,” Menthe said. “Truly, it's not the first time a visitor has used that excuse to leave one of Nicro's 'chanting' concerts.” He chuckled. “You strike me as quite a resourceful mare, Rainbow Dash. I honestly expected something more creative from you.” “Dude. Look... I'm really sorry—” “Did you find what you were looking for?” “Huh?” Rainbow blinked. Menthe nodded his head towards the shack. “The Upper Reed Chapel. Did you see anything in there that... oh, I dunno... 'enlightened' you?” “Well...” Rainbow fidgeted in place. “I met Antsan.” “Then I take it the answer is 'no.'” Rainbow chuckled. “Yeesh... that pony...” “He's young. He's forthright.” Menthe shuffled over, wincing from old bones. “But—you have to admit—he's committed. Kyron's quite proud of him... but it doesn't change the fact that he has to keep something of a leash on the kid.” Menthe smoothed his graying mane back. “More than once, he's driven prospective acolytes away. I know. I've counted.” “Should I know the number?” “Not if you want to feel more depressed than you already look, darling.” “Nah, dude, I'm cool.” “Please, Rainbow Dash,” Menthe spoke. “I know the look of a supposedly 'deep' conversation with Antsan. He doesn't exactly win many converts.” “To be frank, Mr. Menthe, I don't think the Luminards here win many converts as a whole.” Rainbow gulped. “Their whole belief system... demands a lot.” Menthe nodded. “I guess that's what makes it a belief system.” Rainbow fidgeted in place. “You're... uh... not mad at me for sneaking off like I did?” “Well...” Menthe paced around her, glancing at the furthest ends of the nearby platforms with guarded eyes. “...I certainly would have preferred it if you didn't do it.” He shrugged. “I certainly won't complain. It's been a long while since a pony like you has given me some good ol' fashion practice.” “Practice?” “You move like a shadow, Rainbow Dash,” Menthe said. “It's been years since I've seen a pony slink her way past so many pilgrims without distracting a single one of them.” He smirked at her. “A pony with that expertise could very easily have pilfered something from my shack the very moment I sat you and your friends down to dinner.” He shook his head. “No... I don't think you're out here to rob my religious neighbors, no matter how much you may have robbed in the past.” “Errr...” Rainbow blinked, her pupils shrinking. “...in the past?” “Please, Miss Dash,” Menthe murmured. “An 'aristocratic Rohbreddenite' has no business flying anywhere this far west with two bounty hunters. Without a commissioned boat and sail, no less. I think curiosity is only half the reason you and your two companions are here. The other half, quite frankly, must be anonymity.” Rainbow gulped. “Then... if you feel that way... why have you been treating me all this time like I'm not a threat?” “Because you're not.” He smiled at her. “You did refuse to eat meat at the shack, after all.” Rainbow smirked curiously. “And because of that... you somehow know I'm sincere?” “I find you to be very... very special, Miss Dash,” Menthe said. “And that's precisely what the Luminards are seeking from those who visit them. Special souls with whom they can commune and share the glory of the Reed.” He leaned back on his haunches with a sigh. “And until I have a legitimate reason to believe you're a threat to their humble expectations, I see no reason to condemn you.” He squinted. “But I do have my eye on you and your friends at all time, as well as Galloran's. Please... do not sneak off like that again.” Rainbow gulped and nodded. “Yes, sir.” “Promise...?” Rainbow glanced at Pinkie, then back at Menthe. She crossed her heart, flapped her forelimbs, then pressed a hoof to her right eye. “Promise,” she said with a nod. Menthe chuckled. “Oh, Rainbow Dash... where you do come from, darling, I hope we get more visitors from there.” “Yeah, well...” Rainbow glanced aside at her marefriends, smiling. “It's more likely than you think.” “Something for me to look forward to, I suppose,” Menthe stood up and paced towards the adjacent platform. “Say... uh...” Rainbow reached out to him. “Mr. Menthe... could I ask you something?” “You may try.” “You're obviously very experienced in observing stuff here in the Quade.” “Mmmhmmm.” “Do... do you know what's with the scars?” “Oh dear...” Rarity gnawed on her hoof. “Straight out of the gate.” “Well, we are here to find answers, Rarity,” Twilight said. “Shhhh!” Pinkie leaned in, eyes wide. “Cool guy is responding!” Menthe turned around with a calm expression. “I can only guess you're referring to the 'scars' on the Luminards' bodies.” “Yeah.” Rainbow nodded. “Do you know who gave those to them?” “The Luminards did.” “They...” Rainbow grimaced. “...th-they whip and mutilate each other?” “Don't be ridiculous.” Menthe smiled. “They gave it to themselves.” “Th-themselves?!” “Self flagellation, my dear,” Menthe explained. “Based on the season, it's not uncommon for the pilgrims to flog themselves over their sins.” “You've gotta be kidding...” “Antsan in particular—I'm certain you've noticed—wears ascetic prayer hooflets.” “The thorns?” Rainbow gulped. “But... why?” “To be perfectly honest, Miss Dash, I don't perfectly grasp it myself,” Menthe said. “Then again, I don't subscribe to their religion. I only protect the religious.” Menthe stared into the windy sunset. “From what I've gathered, the constant pain keeps them in deep concentration. It helps them... 'hone in' on their sins, as it were, so that they can bury the weight of their suffering in the Shadow of Luminar's Plight and achieve peace, self-contentment, and enlightenment.” “That's the most absurd thing I ever heard!” Rarity exclaimed, her expression paling even further. “How can putting oneself through pain and suffering act as a means of avoiding pain and suffering?!” “Hey, beats me!” Pinkie smiled aside. “I love a good dollop of hot sauce on my cupcakes!” “Pinkie it is not the same!” Rarity barked, fuming. “We are talking about real ponies inflicting real misery on themselves! Celestia spare me—it's positively infuriating!” “Shhhh... Rarity, not so loud. Let Rainbow concentrate.” Twilight floated closer to Rainbow. “Rainbow, ask him if all Luminards are required to do this.” “So... uh...” Rainbow squirmed where she stood. “Does each pilgrim have to do this to themselves? Like a rite of passage or something?” “I once asked the question of Kyron a long, long time ago,” Menthe said. “He made it clear to me that it's a completely voluntary thing, and it's never a practice that's forced upon other pilgrims, young or old. That being said, most of the Luminards who practice self-flagellation tend to be regarded as the most enlightened... the most pious.” “Pffft...” Rainbow blew her bangs out from before her head. “Go figure.” “Hmmm...” He smiled aside at her. “I take it that you're not too fond of the idea.” “Well, just think about it!” Rainbow exclaimed, waving a hoof. “These guys find it to be super sinful to inflict pain on others... to wage war... to eat meat... and yet they'll do all sorts of nasty stuff to themselves?” “All of the self-inflicted wounds are completely sustainable, and the Luminards are swift to adapt good hygene and medicinal healing. I assure you, it's hardly life-threatening.” “That's not the point!” Rainbow's voice cracked. “It's totally uncool! Nopony should have to hurt themselves to achieve any... any... sp-spiritual anything!” “Do you say that as a learned observer or a confident outsider?” Rainbow blinked. “Huh?” Menthe took a calm breath, then said, “Many things look strange from the outside, Miss Dash. You and I have something in common: neither of us subscribe to the Luminards' faith. So how are we to truly know of the contentment and peace of mind that they experience? For all we know, they may indeed hold many answers to life and its meaning through their seemingly obtuse practices. You and I simply haven't ridden over the crest of comprehension to truly ascertain just what that meaning is.” “Oh no.” Twilight shook her head, frowning. “Enough of this! I refuse to accept that the best way to believe in something is to outright ignore the importance of understanding all things that stand to be understood—” With a frustrated sigh, Rainbow blindly flung a hoof up, silencing Twilight. Rarity leaned in with a smug grin. “Now who's being a distraction, darling?” Twilight groaned, face-hoofing. “Then again...” Pinkie fidgeted in place. “...hot sauce tends to mask over the sweetness of cupcake frosting... and that's the cupcakiest part of a cupcake!” “Ahem,” Rainbow Dash gulped. “Well, Mr. Menthe, lemme ask you this. If part of you is so willing to believe that the Luminards have a firm grasp of true enlightenment here...” She squinted at him. “...how come—after all these years—you haven't joined them?” “Because they need protectors, or else their system—a system that has worked for countless pilgrims over thousands of years—could risk vanishing altogether.” He smiled at the mare. “You see, Miss Dash, all ponies who live in the Quade stand to sacrifice something. And such a sacrifice is not made without a modicum of faith.” He shook his head. “I may not have a grasp on what gives each Luminard a sense of purpose, but I have full faith that they do. And while they sacrifice everything to experience such redemption, I sacrifice redemption itself... so that they may continue to be who they are.” “Even... knowing what they do to themselves?” Rainbow bit her lip. “And the pain involved?” “Hmmm... that's the risk of having faith in something.” Menthe strolled past her. “And yet, with each passing year, as I see the smiles on their faces and the tranquil, natural sanctum they've built here in the heart of a dead continent... I feel rewarded for every sacrifice ever made. Where else in Rohbredden—a land wreaking of corruption the likes of which dominates Mudtop, Rust, and other vile places abroad—has Verlaxion's vision of a peaceful utopia been so perfectly achieved?” Rainbow's nostrils flared. “I'm certain, Mr. Menthe, that there are happier places out there than this.” “And maybe now you'll realize why I don't feel threatened by your sneaking ways, Miss Dash,” Menthe said with a good-natured chuckle. “Your kind of faith is the sort that must take you elsewhere. I think we both know that you have no intention of staying here for long.” Rainbow hung her head. “Yeah, well...” She gulped. “I-I can't go now. Not yet, anyway.” “Mmmm... indeed.” Menthe flexed his tired joints. “Which brings us to the real reason I intercepted you just now—aside from making sure that Antsan didn't talk your poor head off. Heheh...” “It's getting late,” Rainbow said, gazing at the bleeding sky beyond the ridges. “I... uh... I don't suppose there's any place where me and my buds can stay?” “I would offer my shack,” Menthe said, waving a hoof. “However, as generous as I may like to be, there is only room enough for Galloran and myself in there.” “Yeah, I get it.” Rainbow smiled bashfully. “Guess it was worth a shot.” “Thankfully, however...” Menthe smiled. “There are ponies in the Quade even kinder than my protege and I.” He winked. “And they happen to have quite a few empty shacks on the upper platforms to spare.” “Wait... you mean the Luminards?” “Indeed.” “They... they'd really offer us a place to stay?” “They already have, Miss Dash,” Menthe said. “Kyron brought it up to Mr. Bard and Mr. Wildcard earlier. You just chose to skip out on the chanting before you could hear the invitation yourself.” “Wow...” Rainbow blinked. “I sure didn't... didn't...” “Expect ascetic monks to extend humble hospitality?” Menthe chuckled again. “Just how many places have you visited, darling?” “You sure they won't... y'know... be bothered by how 'weighty' and 'sinful' our souls would be in the presence of the Reed?” “Heheheh...” Menthe patted Rainbow's shoulder, then gently guided her towards one of the upper platforms. “I think, for better or for worse, you've gotten a bad impression of the pilgrims here, Miss Dash. Allow me to suggest you start out on a new hoof.” “Yeah, but how?” “First off—by relaxing.” Menthe smiled. “It's working for Mr. Bard, after all.” “It is?” Starlight streamed down through the steep mountain ridges and glittered off the shallow waters of the Quade below. Up above, on one of the highest woven platforms situated around the Reed, a group had gathered, circling a flickering campfire. Row after row of pilgrims—both young and old—sat with bright eyes reflecting the image of a fire-lit stallion before them. Bard sat beneath the mouth of a tiny wooden lean-to where his, Wildcard's, and Rainbow's belongings resided. He had his guitar balanced in his forelimbs, and his wingtips nimbly dipped in, plucking the various strings. A gentle melody arose from the acoustic instrument, filling the air with mirth that was further warmed by the dancing flames. With a calm smile, Bard opened his mouth and allowed honey'd lyrics to roll out, tickling the ears of every starstruck Luminard. Ebb and tide Salt and brine Nothing could ever flood this home of mine Whales and sharks Gulls and larks Nothing could ever flood this home of mine I may drift east and west by the whim of the wind But even typhoons and hurricanes make good family kin I'm at ease with the breeze that the salty seas sneeze And when a storm comes, I just smile and dive right in Yes, with the ebb and tide Salt and brine Nothing could ever flood this home of mine Prawn and crabs Barnacles that stab Nothing could ever flood this home of mine Rohbredden's just a name for waters that can't be tamed But I feel it's loving laughter in my ears and my mane The best home is a home that soaks you to the bone A place where the floor and sky are colored both the same Ohh ebb and tide Salt and brine Nothing could ever flood this home of mine No, nothing could ever flood this home of mine Bard followed up the last bit with a playful instrumental. Wildcard joined in, providing a backup harmony with his harmonica. The Luminards' eyes lit up with each note that the Desperado duet played, and all too soon it was over, like the crackling of embers in the fire between them. Bard and Wildcard finished, bowing as one. “That was 'Home of Mine.' An old hoof-me-down from my Grandpappy,” Bard said with a wink. “Thank y'all most kindly.” Silence. Rainbow Dash leaned against the edge of the shack, forelimbs folded as she gazed at the utterly mute crowd. Bard blinked. “Well, don't everypony thank me at once.” Nicro giggled, stepping up into the firelight. “Please, Mr. Bard,” she spoke. “Do not misunderstand my fellow pilgrims' mutual silence. We only mean the deepest respect.” “The foals of Verlaxion believe that all things should be treated with quiet, gentleness, and peace of mind,” Sonikah added. “That includes acts of artistic beauty and expression.” She bowed slightly. “We would not wish to contradict our ways in order to exercise a false gesture.” “Well... that's... uh... mighty thoughtful... I-I think?” Bard gulped. “Makes me feel a tad bit better 'bout the fact that we didn't clap none at Nicro's chantin' performance. We didn't want to make no crazy scene in front of the zealots, even though we thoroughly enjoyed the concert n'all.” He looked aside at Wildcard. “Ain't that right, Dubya-Cee?” Wildcard polished his harmonica, glaring at Bard through his goggles. “Ahem...” Bard turned to smile at the pilgrims. “We enjoyed it, alright.” One pilgrim stood up, smiled, and bowed. “Mr. Bard. A question, if I may.” “Sure thang!” Bard pointed. “You there with the white tunic and fancy hair braids!” The pilgrims collectively laughed. The one Luminard smiled and said, “Your wonderfully sung lyrics spoke of 'nothing flooding this home of mine.' Perhaps you were singing about the dangers of the Plight of Luminar?” “Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...” Bard blinked. The one pilgrim continued: “Most who are drawn to the Quade have at least heard about the awful fate of Luminar: sunk into the ocean around the time of Unification as a punishment for past sins of an ancient civilization. I was wondering if, perhaps, this was the inspiration behind your lyrics.” “Well... ehm...” Bard shifted the weight of his guitar in his grip. “Reckon I'd be lyin' if I said I knew nothin' about yer society before I showed up here. But... uhm... I-I sorta meant it as more of a personal struggle with findin' one's home and identity amidst the seas of Rohbredden... until one figures out that the entirety of the Ocean is home itself! That's somethin' I've been wrestlin' with somethin' awful. But... uh... I-I suppose it's vague enough to be open to interpretation! So if you want it to be about the Plight of Luminar... pfft... be my guest!” Another pilgrim stood up. “Then do you believe that truth is subjective... and that a pony can find enlightenment through meditation on things other than the Reed?” Bard blinked. “Well... do y'all think that such a thing is possible?” Rainbow glanced from Bard to the pilgrims themselves. The one who just stood up smiled. “No, Mr. Bard,” she said. “I know that focus and concentration in the presence of the Reed is the only means to inner peace. I'm just curious how someone as kind-hearted and talented as you has managed to find a certain degree of contentment without.” “Well... I ain't gonna lie,” Bard said. “At times, it's hard... damned hard.” He winced. “Whoops... I-I hope that ain't committin' to big of a sin in y'all's presence just now.” Nicro chuckled. “We are well-guarded against worse things than that, Mr. Bard,” she said. “But your concern is most appreciated.” “I guess... the one thang that tends to get me by in life is havin' someone else to share the whole moseyin' venture with.” Bard gestured at the griffon. “Like Dubya-Cee, here! Why... I'd have died a couple of times if it weren't for him!” Wildcard angrily blew through his harmonica, making a single, loud, dissonant note. Bard jolted. He smiled, sweating. “Okay... make that a heapin' many times.” The crowd chuckled. Bard continued in a calm tone: “I dun rightly understand everythang about the Quade or the Plight of this-or-that, but seems to me that y'all are getting' along pretty nicely as a group, y'know? Even if the Word of Reed was a bunch of hooey—” Wildcard winced. Bard swiftly blurted: “—and-and-and I'm n-not suggestin' that it is!” He waved a hoof. “But... even if, I have no doubt that supportin' one another and givin' a shoulder for each other to lean on is enough to let y'all stay afloat in life. Reckon that's all that matters in an ocean with so many wanderin' fish, ya feel me?” “That's a very intriguing philosophy, Mr. Bard,” Sonikah said with a pleasant smile. “We're glad that Verlaxion's grace brought you to the Quade so that you might stimulate our hearts and minds.” “Well...” He tipped his hat. “Much oblidged. And Dubya-Cee and I are mighty thankful for the roof over our heads.” He pointed at the colorful pegasus off to the side. “Rainbow too!” Rainbow blinked, then nodded. “Oh... s-sure! Totally!” She smiled. “Be it... ever h-humble!” Nicro's face grew long. “We're only sorry that we couldn't properly furnish it for you in time. We know that foals of Verlaxion from abroad aren't entirely used to... the simplicity of our ways.” “It's absolutely fine,” Rainbow Dash said with a smile. “And we're totally cool with it. Besides... it sure beats our previous pads.” She waved a hoof. “Why, two nights ago, we slept on the back of a giant fish!” The Luminards all looked at one another with blank expressions. “Er... eheheh...” Rainbow Dash rubbed the back of her head. “Long story.” “Aren't all fish stories?” Rarity droned. Pinkie giggled. Another pilgrim stood up. “Miss Dash... may I ask you something?” She smiled. “If it wouldn't bother our polite guests, that is...” “Hey...” Rainbow shrugged. “Shoot.” “....?” The pilgrim turned around and stared up at the Reed. “I mean ask away, girl.” Rainbow chuckled. “S'all good.” “Oh... uhm...” The pilgrim adjusted her tunic, then squinted. “That jewell. Around your neck.” Rainbow blinked. “What is its significance, if I may ask?” Bard and Wildcard looked over, standing in total silence. Rarity, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie gazed at Rainbow Dash. “This...” Rainbow pressed a hoof to the lightning bolt. Almost immediately, it glowed with ruby essence, causing the pilgrims to gasp and coo in amazement. Eventually, Rainbow smiled, although it was a very tired thing. “This... is a piece of my home.” The Luminards all murmured with one another. “But... ahem...” Rainbow trotted forward. “It's more than that, I suppose. It's part of who I am... and what I believe in.” She bit her lip. “The very last piece of everyone and everything I've ever cared for.” “And yet... you never take it off,” observed the pilgrim. “You carry around at all times, do you not?” “That I do.” “Isn't it... heavy?” Rainbow arched an eyebrow. “You mean like a sin?” The Luminard winced. “I-I'm sorry,” she stammered. “I did not mean to offend.” “No... no no... it's okay.” Rainbow Dash sighed. “I've gotta admit that... there are times when it almost does feel like one. In... in that it constantly reminds me of how hard it is to do the right thing...” She turned to look over her shoulder. “...for all the right reasons.” Pinkie, Twilight, and Rarity smiled back. They leaned into one another, gazing at Rainbow with pride. “But... uhm...” Rainbow felt the pendant again. She sighed through her nostrils and said, “Where I come from, the ponies believe in being peaceful... in being happy... in being kind. It's just that... we don't quite... do it in the same way you guys do. And... I gotta admit that seeing the ways you dudes go about communing with the essence of Verlaxion kinda freaks me out.” A few Luminards chuckled and nodded. They all listened intently. “But... I-I also gotta admit...” Rainbow chewed on her lip, then gazed off at the dark streams of the Quade as she said, “That following what I believed in at home... was a lot easier when I was at home.” She gulped. “And doing the right things for all the right reasons stopped being easy a long... long time ago.” She winced slightly. The ghostly mares behind her blinked curiously. They exchanged worried glances. “So... I-I guess... in a way... I admire your commitment,” Rainbow said, gazing at the pilgrims beyond the flame. “It takes an awful lot of courage and strength to change who you are for something noble.” Her eyes thinned, gazing at a dim yellow light from beyond the Reed. “And it takes even greater strength to know that you're still you underneath at all... and that the last piece of you left to cling to is the only thing that's not worth burying.” The one pilgrim standing before Rainbow Dash bowed. “You are a very wise pony, Rainbow Dash,” she said with a calm smile. “It is my sincere hope that Verlaxion helps you find yourself.” Rainbow blinked. She fought a lump in her throat to say: “At least it's good to know that somepony's trying...” Twilight floated over to Rainbow's side. A sheen of concern glossed over the unicorn's eyes. She opened her mouth to speak— “Dear foals of Verlaxion...” Kyron suddenly trotted into the firelight, joined by other elders. He smiled peacefully at the group. “It fills my heart with great joy to see each of you in this festive communion.” He bowed, his braided hair flouncing slightly. “However... the hour grows late, and Verlaxion's wisdom bids us to rest our hearts and minds. I must ask that you all retire so that you will be filled with vigor for our early morning exercises.” The pilgrims bowed all as one, then stood up from where they sat. Murmuring pleasantly with one another, the group filed off, marching towards the inner platforms where several shacks and lean-to's awaited them for a full night's sleep. “Whew...” Bard whistled. “Look at them all.” He smiled aside at Rainbow Dash. “I bet even Princess Camellia with all her fishy mind control couldn't get Shoggothians to trot that orderly!” “Y'know, Bard...” Rainbow muttered. “Sometimes you're the funniest pony in the world without trying to be.” Pinkie giggled. Bard blinked. “What's that supposed to mean?” Wildcard snickered breathily, pocketing away his harmonica. Bard frowned. “What?!” “Ahem.” Kyron stepped up. “Oh! Uhm...” Bard tipped his hat. “Doin't mind us or nothin', Mr. Kyron, sir. A lil' apostate banter never hurt nopony, amirite?” “You have brought mirth and kindness to my fellow pilgrims,” Kyron said. “I couldn't possibly be displeased, Mr. Bard.” “Well, I figured a lil' music free-of-charged was the least Dubya-Cee and I could do for such last-second homemakin'.” Bard smiled, gesturing at the lean-to's. “It's mighty hospitable of y'all.” “I would offer no less,” Kyron said with a smile. “It is the way of the foals of Verlaxion to spread kindness and neighborly appreciation to all who are drawn to the Quade.” “I... uh...” Bard glanced briefly at Rainbow. “...can't rightly say just how long we intend on staying.” “And it doesn't matter.” Kyron bowed. “Your presence here is a blessing. We can only hope the wisdom of the Reed reaches you just as you have reached out to us.” The elder turned towards Rainbow Dash. “Miss Dash, I understand that you spoke with Antsan earlier today.” “Uhhhh...” Rainbow Dash stared at the group of pilgrims who were filing away. “Yeah... that I did...” “He told me that the two of you had a rather... thought-provoking conversation,” Kyron remarked. “While I admire Antsan's enthusiasm, I must personally admit that he is still just embarking on his path towards enlightenment, with many sins yet to bury within the Shadow of the Plight. If he offended you in any way with his assertive speech, I do sincerely apologize.” “No... uhm... it's okay...” Rainbow murmured, squinting now. Her eyes focused on the last pilgrim to join the procession. Unlike the others, this Luminard was wearing a curiously bulky tunic—more like a robe. “Nothing... bad happened...” Twilight hovered close by. “Rainbow, what is it...?” “In either case, he says that you received his words with a polite demeanor and a kind heart,” Kyron's words drifted past her. “I admire your civility as much as he does. Just know that it is never our goal to unnecessarily pressure the foals of Verlaxion into joining our meditation.” “S'all good...” Rainbow's eyelids fluttered. “No... pressure...” As the line of monks descended to the lower platform, the last one paused... slowly turning about. Rainbow saw a dark hood, the face beneath obscured. Just then, two pale eyeslits opened, brighter than the stars above. “Guh...!” Rainbow teetered. “Rainbow Dash!” Twilight exclaimed. Pinkie and Rarity gasped. “Whoah damn!” Bard flew over in a blur, catching Rainbow before she could collapse on her chest. “Easy, darlin'!” He held her up. “You okay?” “Yes...” Rainbow shivered, fighting off a wave of dizziness. “I... I-I think I'm fine...” “Is something the matter?” Kyron asked, his breath denoting an air of concern. He took a bold step forward. “If you are feeling ill, we have members who are quite adept at medicine.” “Mmmff... yes...” Rainbow suddenly grumbled. “I imagine they have to be.” Kyron merely blinked, his face wrought with confusion. “Ahem...” Rainbow lifted her head, smiling weakly at him. “I'm fine. It's... it's just a thing I have.” “I... I see...” Kyron took a step back. He suddenly bowed his head, raised his hooves, and murmured a whispery incantation. The other elders by his side followed suit, and they ended it with their forelimbs stretched outwards, the fetlocks turned towards the stars. “By Verlaxion's grace,” they murmured in finality. “Erm... if ya dun mind my askin'...” Bard cocked his head aside as he continued to support Rainbow's weight. “But what was that?” “A blessing,” Kyron said, smiling slightly. “That Verlaxion may bring your fair companion to a place of good health and wholesome peace.” “Uhm...” Rainbow grimaced to produce a smile. “Thanks?” Kyron bowed, and then he and his companions trotted down to the nearest platform. Wildcard shuffled over, watching as the last of the Luminards left. He turned to Bard and gestured emphatically. “Yer tellin' me.” Bard nodded, then looked at Rainbow. “This faintin' spell of yers is gettin' more and more unpredictable.” “It's okay, dudes,” Rainbow muttered. “I'm fine.” “You sure about that?” “Yeah! I'm fine, okay?” Rainbow growled slightly, stepping out of Bard's grip. “Just... lay yourself and your guitar to rest for a moment, will ya?” Bard leaned back. “Heh...” He tilted his hat forward and turned to trot towards his sleeping mat. “Looks like these platforms ain't the only thang that could use a little unweavin'.” Wildcard lingered behind, his feathers ruffling. He gave Rainbow one last concerned glance, then shuffled off towards the shelter. Rainbow sat in place, catching her breath, staring at the platforms below. “Rainbow, are you sure you're okay, darling?” Rarity asked. “Mmmf...” Rainbow's ears folded back. “No. But then again, I'm not sure of anything.” “Awwwwwww... poor Dashie...” Pinkie leaned in to nuzzle her. “It's okay! We'll keep you company! Heehee! It'll be like our very own ghostly slumber party! Heeheehee—” She phased completely through the pegasus. “Whoah!” Rainbow tried not to wince. “Thanks, Pinkie. Really... it means a lot.” “Do... do you know what that was just now?” Twilight asked. Rainbow looked at Twilight. “You mean... you saw it too?” Twilight's brow furrowed. “Saw what? I'm talking about what made you faint.” Rainbow bit her lip, then turned towards the lower platforms again. “Rainbow... what did you see?” The mare gulped. “I don't know...”