//------------------------------// // 08 – Legends // Story: No Heroes: Beyond the Everfree // by PaulAsaran //------------------------------// It was the second day, and Fluttershy had grown restless. Fine had suggested she just relax – “There’s no point in fretting over something you can’t control.” – but it wasn’t so easy in practice. Every day they waited was another day poor Discord had to stay trapped in stone. Yet there was also the weight. It wasn’t a physical thing, certainly, but Fluttershy knew it existed. Something lingered in the air, an invisible force that pushed on her mind like a stack of Twilight’s books that had stayed on her back for far too long. She’d first felt it by the ponds, but now the sensation seemed to have percolated to the camp itself. Or maybe it had always been there, subtly bearing down on them until the strain became noticeable. The others were aware of it, even if they didn’t say anything. In those short moments between activities and conversation they appeared tense, worn out and frayed. Something had them in a loose grip, and the sooner they left the ponds the better. At least the company was nice. It was late morning, and Nye and Pinkie were playing a game of checkers that the latter had produced seemingly from nowhere. Rainbow was napping in one of the trees and Fine had disappeared without preamble – something they’d all grown used to. If Fluttershy knew anything about Fine Crime, it was that sometimes he needed space. That left Fluttershy on her own. She’d tried to entertain herself by watching the checkers game, but her heart wasn’t in it. Her mind kept shifting to Discord’s eternal waiting and her growing frustration with the indecipherable weight on her shoulders. And so she excused herself to head for the pond, declining Nye’s offer to join her. She felt safe enough knowing Fine was out there somewhere. As if striving to confirm her fears, the pressure only increased as Fluttershy made her way to the ponds. The change proved subtle in the beginning, but by the time she neared the water the difference was blatant. She pushed her gentle way through the underbrush and stopped at the edge of one of the ponds. The water sparkled in the sunlight, yet she did not find the sight appealing. Her ears perked in one direction, then another. She could make out faint sounds of animals, but they were distant... and they never grew closer. Fluttershy knew that there must truly be something off about this place if even the animals avoided the ponds. She couldn't help but wonder if the thestrals had been right to keep a guard around here. As though the thoughts were a summons, Fang appeared on the far bank. She came out of the bushes looking directly at Fluttershy, like she’d known she was there all along. There was no alarm or anger in her manner; her gaze was curious and, if her raised eyebrows were any indication, a warning. After a moment’s hesitation, Fluttershy spread her wings. She flew directly for Fang, her hooves barely grazing the water. Fang sat and waited, grinding her hooves into the ground in an anxious display. She spoke as Fluttershy approached, “I didn’t expect to see you out here by yourself.” Fluttershy landed a few feet away and tried to offer a friendly smile. “I know, I have a reputation. But Fine’s out there, and that makes me feel safe.” At Fang’s raised eyebrow, she added, “He’s very protective of his friends.” “If you say so.” Fang glanced over the ponds, her eyes scanning the opposite shore as if she expected Fine to be there. “So what brings you out here?” “I—” She paused before confessing to boredom. “I just felt like going for a walk, but now that I’m here…” She rubbed her leg with a weak smile. “Do you mind if I ask something?” Fang considered the query, her suspecting gaze roaming up and down Fluttershy. “Depends. Far as I can tell, you’re the innocent pony of the group, and I don’t think it’s a ruse. Still, you know I can’t answer much, right?” Unable to determine if she was meant to be flattered or not, Fluttershy took a moment to consider her response. “Y-yes, I get that. It’s just something that’s been bothering me.” She waited for Fang to speak up, pressing on only when it became apparent that no reply would come. “You have to stay here for several moons, right?” Fang relaxed with a long sigh before nodding. “Yeah, that’s my part of the job.” “Then… do you feel it too?” “Feel what?” Fluttershy twirled a hoof in the air. “The… weight of this place. We all felt it when we first arrived, but none of us know what it is.” “Oh, that.” Fang shrugged, her leathery wings giving a light flap. “It’s always been here. It’s the influence of Rex.” A tilt of the head. “Rex?” Fang facehooved. “Right, you ponies don’t know about him. Everypony back home does, so I forgot. And I probably shouldn’t say more.” Fluttershy’s ears perked. “Everypony?” “Yeah, everypony.” “But…” She leaned forward, which made Fang lean back. “I thought you didn’t think thestrals were ponies?” Fang’s eyebrows rose. “We’re not.” “Yet you still say ‘everypony?’ ” It took a moment for her meaning to sink in, and Fang blinked a few times when it did. “I never, I mean…” Her eyes danced about. Was that a drop of sweat? “L-look, I’m not an expert, okay?” Fluttershy backed away and raised a placating hoof. “I didn’t mean to put you on the spot. It struck me as strange, that’s all.” Once again, Fang relaxed, although this time the act was much more pronounced; her wings dropped to the ground along with her head. “I can’t wait for Polar to get back.” Fluttershy leaned forward once more, her heart aching for the thestral. “This is really putting you under a lot of stress, isn’t it? I won’t ask any more questions.” “No, it’s alright.” Fang waved a dismissive hoof. “You can ask. You just… kinda put me on the ropes with that last one.” “I’m sorry!” Fang raised her head and rolled her eyes. “I know. Like I said, you’re the nice one.” Fluttershy cocked her head. “The others are nice. Why would you think they aren’t?” Throwing her head back, Fang heaved a loud groan. “I’m not a wordsmith! ‘Nice’ isn’t the right word, alright? My point is, I know you’re not going to try to trick me into saying something I’m not supposed to. The others, like Rainbow or Nye, I can see doing that. Or Fine Crime.” She shivered upon uttering the name. “That guy gives me the willies.” “He gets that a lot,” Fluttershy replied with a giggle. “He’s not a bad pony, he’s just… strange.” “He goes stalking around at night and can hide in broad daylight,” Fang corrected. “He’s more than just ‘strange.’ He strikes me as legitimately dangerous.” “He is.” Fang blinked yet again. “What?” “He is dangerous.” Fluttershy stated it in a matter-of-fact tone. “Believe me, I have first hoof experience. But he’s a lot more social and friendly than he used to be.” “Friendly.” Fang shook her head. “I admit, he acts friendly, but there’s just something about him. You should have seen the look he gave me during the fight!” Fluttershy couldn’t resist a smile. “Scary pony?” “Very.” She twirled her mane in a hoof absent-mindedly. “He’d take that as a compliment. Fine means well, he’s just…” She paused to think before heaving a sigh. “Strange.” Fang nodded, and now she was the one rubbing a leg. “Did he really kill those ponies? Like he said?” “Yes.” “Why?” Fluttershy thought of Fine and all that she knew. She tried gauging the situation like he would, weighing the pros and cons of explaining such things. In the end, she shook her head. “I don’t think it’s my place to say. Let’s just say that he once led a very dark and violent life before he learned the magic of friendship.” “The ‘Magic of Friendship?’ ” Fang stuck her tongue out and crossed her eyes. “That sounds so sappy.” Resisting telling the mare about how that ‘sappy’ magic defeated Nightmare Moon was easy. Not being annoyed by her ignorance proved a bit trickier. Still, Fluttershy managed to push the comment aside; it wasn’t like the thestrals knew anything about the Elements of Harmony returning to Equestria. “So,” Fang said when neither of them spoke for a little while, “I don’t suppose you’re going to tell me why you’re really here?” A beaming smile came to Fluttershy’s lips. “Oh, we’re trying to cure a friend. You ever heard of—” She caught herself just in time, cutting herself off with an “Eep!” “Can’t say I know of anypony named that,” Fang replied with a chuckle. “What do you need for this cure, anyway?” “G-gargoyle skin,” she managed with a relieved sigh. “From an alpha.” Fang’s eyes bulged. “You want to hunt one of those? Surely you aren’t serious!” “Umm, well, I was hoping I could just convince one to help us.” “Convince—” Fang shook her head forcefully. “You can’t ‘convince’ a gargoyle to do anything. They’re mindless beasts, and tough to kill. We avoid those things as if they were the spawn of Tartarus itself.” “Oh.” Fluttershy tapped her hooves together. “B-but… hasn’t anypony tried to talk to them?” Fang facehoofed. “You can’t talk to gargoyles, Fluttershy! They’re animals. Brutal, violent, vicious beasts. They aren’t ponies or thestrals.” Her worry only grew as she took in Fang’s vehemence. “Don’t you have somepony who can communicate with animals, though?” “That’s not even possible!” “Sure it is.” Fluttershy set a hoof to her own chest. “I can talk to animals.” Fang raised an eyebrow. “You seriously expect me to buy that load of alpha droppings?” Fluttershy winced and averted her gaze. “W-well, I’m not sure I can speak the dialect of the local fauna. It’s so very different from the creatures we have back in Equestria. If there were an animal more familiar with home though, I’d be able to do it.” “Right.” Fang rolled her eyes and turned away. “You figure out a way to prove it to me and I’ll lead you to the gargoyles myself! Until then, I—whoa!” Just as she’d been about to step away, smoke formed in the area immediately before Fang. She stepped back, wings spreading as she took on a defensive stance. But Fluttershy heaved a sigh, not the least surprised when Fine Crime stepped out of the dissipating clouds. “Did you do that on purpose?” she asked. He offered a grin towards Fang. “Maybe.” “It’s not very nice to startle ponies like that.” Fine waved a dismissive hoof. “I think Fang can take it. Right?” The thestral glowered his way. “Yeah, I guess,” she begrudgingly admitted. “Don’t mean I like it. What are you doing here?” “Delivering news.” He gestured behind him, his smile fading. “Your friends are on their way. We’ve got half an hour before they show up.” Fluttershy nodded. “Then we better get back and tell the others.” “Wait a minute.” Fang stopped Fine with a foreleg across his chest. “How do you know?” He raised an eyebrow. “Because I saw them?” “And they didn’t say anything?” Fine shook his head. “They’d have to have known I was there.” Fang bristled, her wings spreading wide. “You can’t have snuck up on thestrals.” “I snuck up on you, didn’t I?” He ignored her sputtering and addressed Fluttershy. “Meet you on the other side.” He disappeared in another cloud of smoke. Fluttershy sighed and turned to Fang. “Don’t be too mad. Fine’s special talent is staying hidden, after all. Would you like to meet them here, or join us?” “I have to be at my station when they get here,” Fang grumbled. “It’ll look better. You go on.” With a nod, Fluttershy turned away and flew across the ponds, landing next to the patiently waiting Fine Crime. “I think you wounded her pride.” “She’ll live.” He led her through the jungle at a brisk pace, slowing only when they had to maneuver through the rough terrain. “There’s ten of them on the way, including Polar Aim. I’ll share the details at camp, but I want you doing the introductions.” Her legs faltered. She might have fallen over the side of a hill had he not caught her. “You want me to start us off? B-but you’re the leader!” “No, you are,” he replied with confidence. “You’re the one who started this, the one who wanted to go on this quest in the first place. The rest of us wouldn’t be here at all if not for you. I’ll step up when it’s necessary, I promise, but we’re not about to deal with low level grunts. There’s a pony of prominence amongst them, and we need to put our best face forward – one of peace, tolerance and kindness – and let them know who the leader of this little expedition is. That’s you in every aspect.” Her ears went flat against her skull as she followed behind him. “B-but I don’t know what to say. I’ve never had to be a leader before. What if I mess up or offend them?” He chuckled. “You? Offend? I’m not sure that’s even possible.” “Fine, I’m serious!” He turned around so quickly she nearly walked into his face. His hoof came up to touch her cheek, his eyes boring into hers. There was confidence in his gaze and warmth in his smile. “So am I,” he whispered. “You can do this, Fluttershy. You’re more capable than you know. Don’t worry; I’ll be with you every step of the way.” He held her gaze, his rosewood-red eyes filling her vision. She found his closeness uncomfortable. “Fine… are you sure?” “As sure as the sun rises in the east.” Though doubt lingered in the back of her mind, it was held back by the dawning comprehension that he really did have faith in her. Fine was the most capable stallion she knew. If he thought she could do this… She managed a frail smile. “Thank you, Fine. I’ll try.” Fine stared at her for a few more seconds. He started to lean forward, but then turned away with a cough. “W-well, shall we get the others?” She cocked her head, wondering why his cheeks were pink. Fluttershy stared at the trees. Was she sweating? She was sweating. Her wings opened and closed in small, nervous flicks and she shifted from hoof to hoof. Any second now, a bunch of thestrals would be stepping out of the jungle. “You’ve got this, Fluttershy,” Rainbow said from behind her. “Yeah!” Though she couldn’t see her, her mind’s eye painted a decent picture of Pinkie’s bouncing. “I’m sure they’re going to just love ya.” Nye snickered. “True. Who doesn’t like Fluttershy?” Fine stood at her side, but slightly back from her. He kept close, his expression calm and focused. He’d been her most vocal supporter in the last half-hour, but now he’d assumed a familiar, businesslike manner. He leaned slightly towards her, not taking his eyes off the treeline ahead. “They’re splitting up. Looks like they want to encircle us.” She tensed, heart thrusting into her throat. “W-why would they do that?” “Intimidation,” he replied smoothly. “Just relax. They’re only being cautious.” “Or planning an attack,” Rainbow grumbled, just loud enough that she could hear. “That’s not helpful, Dash,” Nye hissed. “I’m just saying.” “Nopony’s going to attack,” Fine replied, not bothering to keep his voice down. “Them or us. This is a peaceful meeting of representatives, and it’s going to stay that way.” Fluttershy desperately hoped that was the truth. Her wings trembled and she held her breath, wondering if the first sign she’d have of the thestrals’ presence would be a spear flying through the trees. She perked her ears to listen, noting how silent the world had become. That thick, unpleasant blanket of pressure continued to seep into her, adding another reason for her shivers. A shape appeared in the shadows of the trees. Then another. Fluttershy let the air escape her lungs as the first thestral appeared. She was no taller than her, possessing light-red coat decorated with shades of grey. Her dark-brown mane was tied back in a short topknot, the silver speckles at the tips giving the impression of a paintbrush. Her wings spread wide as soon as she cleared the trees, revealing a long, thin scar over the membrane of one where something had cut into the flesh from bone to tip. A couple more thestrals appeared at either side of her, one being Polar Aim himself. Fluttershy glanced around as more thestrals appeared from the surrounding trees, forming a neat circle. As Fine had claimed, all of them were lightly armored in what appeared to be leather. The very sight made her skin crawl. A couple had swords, one a large axe, but most – like Fang to the right – had spears or long poles. None of the weapons were brandished, which alleviated her anxiety a touch, but every last one of the thestrals stared at the group with peering, suspecting gazes. She glanced at Fine, but his eyes were set firmly upon the apparent leader. If he noticed her attention, there was no sign of it. Fluttershy's attention whipped forward as the graying thestral spoke in a soft yet commanding voice. “My name is Serrated Tongue. It is my duty to greet you… ponies.” She spoke the word cautiously, as if she still didn’t believe what was happening. The uncertainty wasn’t reflected at all by her firm posture. “I will speak with your leader to determine your intentions. We may speak in private or out here, I care not, but nopony leaves this campsite until we do.” A second passed before Fluttershy realized the need to respond. Again, she glanced at Fine, who looked back with a lone eye and nodded. With shaking hooves, she stepped forward. Serrated Tongue’s gaze snapped to her and she flinched. “M-my…” She swallowed the lump in her throat and tried again. “My name is F-Fluttershy, from the Equestrian town of Ponyville. I am the…” She glanced back at Fine. He nodded encouragingly, even letting a small smile slip through his grim countenance. “I am the leader of these ponies, and I thank you for greeting us today.” “Fluttershy.” Serrated Tongue’s frown deepened. “I was under the impression that the leader was one Fine Crime.” Her eyes shifted to Fine. It took Fluttershy a moment to think of some explanation for this obvious discrepancy. “He’s… my advisor. I am the one who led us into your jungle. My friends are here to help me with my task.” “And what task would that be?” Fine stepped forward before Fluttershy could respond. “If I may?” At Fluttershy’s nod, he said, “I believe this setting is a little… distracting. I think you two should speak privately. You can use the tents.” Fluttershy’s heart slammed back into her throat. He wanted her to be alone with Serrated Tongue? “O-only if you are with us.” She winced, realizing she’d spoken too quickly. She turned to the leader of the thestrals and bowed her head. “You may of course bring another thestral in with us.” Serrated Tongue raised a bushy eyebrow. Her gaze lingered on Fluttershy for several long seconds, and she tried her best not to squirm under the pressure. “Agreed.” Serrated Tongue turned her head. “Nibbling Fang, you will join us.” Fang stiffened, her cheeks going hot pink. Rainbow snorted down a laugh. Feeling only marginally better, Fluttershy turned for Fine’s and Nye’s tent, which was slightly larger than the others. Fine was at her side, and leaned over to whisper, “That’s going to be a tight squeeze.” “I am not doing this alone,” she shot back through her clenched teeth. “Fair enough.” He held the tent flap open for her. Upon entering, she made straight for the farther corner. Hoping to grant as much room as she could to their ‘guests,’ she pushed herself back until the thick fabric was pressed against the back of her head. Fang came next, followed by Serrated Tongue. As they settled in opposite corners, Fine entered and sat in the remaining open space. Fine was right, it was a tight squeeze. Fluttershy felt like a foal; everypony outside would be able to hear them and they would all be uncomfortable. Backing out struck her as a bad move though, so she sucked down her agitation and turned her attention to Serrated Tongue. “I’m sorry for the cramped conditions, but you did say we couldn’t leave the campsite.” The thestral offered a tired smile, her grey ear flicking against the top of the tent. “I did, didn't I?” “We could always move to the ponds,” Fine suggested, though by his tone he likely didn’t see that as a possibility. “No, we’ll make do.” Serrated Tongued waved a dismissive hoof. Given the cramped space, it ended up waggling in front of Fang’s muzzle. “We all need to save face, I think. We’ll just try to make this quick.” Fluttershy relaxed at her informal tone. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad after all. “So, um, Miss Tongue…” Serrated Tongue’s face screwed up as if she’d just tasted one of Pinkie’s ‘baked bads.’ “Call me Seta, please.” Fang looked as if she might explode from her effort not to laugh, prompting Seta to shoot her a sour look. “Mind your fangs, Nibbler.” A fresh blush bloomed across Fang’s face, which she quickly turned away. “Miss Seta, then.” Fluttershy smiled. “I understand there’s a lot of secrecy involved. I hope we aren’t causing too much trouble with the thestrals.” Seta’s smile faded, her professional tone returning. “Oh, you’re causing quite the stir. Frankly, it couldn’t have been at a worse time, not that I blame you for it.” Fluttershy’s smile faded and she shrank back a little. “I’m sorry, we had no idea. Is there something wrong? Can we help?” “Help?” Seta shook her head. “Your very presence is a nuisance. Trying to help would only cause more trouble. It took a lot of talking to convince the other elders not to throw you out of our lands right away.” With a short bow of the head, Fluttershy said, “We appreciate the effort. We’re on a mission of great importance and wouldn’t want to have to circle around territory we don’t know the extent of.” “Ah, and now we get to the crux of the situation.” Seta leaned forward, her gaze piercing. “Why are you in thestral lands?” With a hopeful smile, Fluttershy replied, “We have a close friend who needs medicine. The only cure requires ingredients that don’t exist in Equestria, or anywhere else in the known world. My friend—” she gestured to Fine, “—discovered a lead claiming we could find the ingredients out here.” “I see.” Seta’s gaze remained studious and firm as she glanced between her and Fine. “And exactly what ingredient are you looking for?” “The skin of an alpha gargoyle.” Seta sucked down a sharp breath, her brown eyes bulging. Her wings twitched as she worked to keep them from spreading in the confined space of the tent. “What? You can’t be serious!” Fluttershy pouted. “Fang reacted similarly.” “And for good reason.” Seta took a few slow breaths until her wings stopped fighting her. “Have you any idea how hard it is to kill one of those beasts?” “We don’t want to kill one,” Fluttershy corrected quickly. “Just take a piece of its stone skin.” Seta shook her head. “You’re not getting anything from one of those without bloodshed. Don’t you know anything about gargoyles?” “As she said,” Fine interjected, “we don’t have gargoyles were we come from. We thought they were extinct up until my source explained otherwise.” Once more, Seta’s eyes narrowed. “Ah, yes… your ‘source.’ Pegasus, golden, compass for a sigil? She promised not to tell anypony about our tribe.” Fine nodded, ever patient. “And it took a lot to get it out of her. Even when she learned that the freedom of an immortal Equestrian hero was at stake, she wouldn’t budge until I sweetened the pot with about the only thing she would go for. My order doesn’t give away its secrets for cheap.” Fluttershy stared at him, already putting together the dots. Just how much had he sacrificed to get the lead that brought them here? She suddenly appreciated his efforts a lot more. “I hope it was worth it to her,” Seta grumbled, “because we’re not inclined to trust ponies again after a betrayal like that. Who is this immortal, and why should we be concerned with his well-being?” Fluttershy replied immediately. “It’s Discord.” Fine flinched and let out a low groan, setting a fetlock over his muzzle. “Fluttershy…” She cocked her head, ignoring the way the tent ceiling tugged at her mane. “What?” “Nothing. Too late now.” Seta stared at them both with a piercing gaze. “Discord. Our previous visitor claimed he’d been freed from his prison, only to be captured once more.” Fluttershy nodded, her eyes lowering to her hooves. “I am personally responsible for Discord’s fate. I became his first friend, and he has since been reformed to good. He was allowed to live free, and he helped Equestria in many ways. Recently he… sacrificed himself to protect my friends. He’s been returned to stone, and this time the Elements of Harmony can’t help him.” Fang finally spoke up, rolling her eyes as she did. “The Elements of Harmony? Please, those have been lost for a thousand years. You really think we’ll believe—” Seta raised a hoof before her companion, her gaze set upon Fluttershy. She maintained a piercing gaze, and Fluttershy once more began to fidget beneath the heat of it. Seconds passed. Seta slowly lowered her hoof, but she didn’t stop studying Fluttershy. At last, she spoke. “Nibbling Fang, you have been with these ponies for a few days now. Tell me, do you believe their intentions to be threatening?” Fang snapped to attention as best she could with her head against the ceiling. “I don’t believe most of what they are telling us… but no, I don’t think they mean us harm.” Seta continued to ponder for some time, and Fluttershy couldn’t think of what to say in their defense. The old thestral’s gaze was unreadable. Should she be worried? It was Fine who broke the silence. “A query, Elder.” He waited for Seta’s cool nod before continuing. “If I’m reading you properly, it would seem your concern begins with the Elements of Harmony. I also note you didn’t question anything about Discord. I suspect your tribe has some history with him?” Both the thestrals stared at him, Fang with her jaw loose. They shared a thoughtful look. “Yes and no.” Seta gestured to the tent entrance. “I think it’s time for a margin of truth from our side. Perhaps I was too hasty about the ponds. Shall we go to them?” Fine raised an eyebrow, then looked to Fluttershy. Why was he deferring to her? Feeling uneasy, she nodded and mimicked Seta’s gesture. Fine stepped out, holding the tent flap open. They all stepped outside, and Seta stretched. A worrying number of popping sounds came from her legs and wings as she did. She turned to Polar. “We are going to continue this discussion by the ponds. The rest of you remain here with our… ‘guests.’ ” In a single fluid motion, Polar raised his hoof, circled it around his own heart and pulled it down in something akin to a hoofpump. He left his leg in that crooked position until Seta walked past him. Fluttershy wondered if it was meant to be some kind of salute. As she’d come to expect, Fang and Seta had no difficulty traversing the jungle terrain. She and Fine had gotten better at it over the last couple of days, but the thestrals still had to pause every now and then for them to catch up. They were led in a wide path, different from the one Fluttershy was accustomed to, and so it took a little longer to reach the ponds. When they did, however, it was via an open area in the trees with plenty of space for the four of them to stand and walk around. Seta wasted no time, walking to the ponds and turning to face the others. Her eyes went to Fluttershy. “Tell me, what do you know of this place?” “Nothing.” Fluttershy glanced at Fine, who shrugged. “We know nothing about the ponds. We have theories.” “But they’re all conjecture,” Fine finished for her. “It is called by our tribe ‘The Weeping Water,’ ” Seta declared, her manner solemn. She looked over her shoulder, a thoughtful frown on her lips, then leveled them both with a quiet glare. “I do not give this information lightly. I must ask that you keep this story private. Is that understood?” Fang’s wings spread wide. She stepped forward and shook her head. “Elder, you can’t. The Coven wouldn’t approve.” “I am representing the Coven,” Seta announced, her head held high and her tone brooking no argument. “Do not think that you being a Honed Wing gives you authority over me, toothling.” Fang grimaced, but bowed her head and stepped back in line with Fine and Fluttershy. The elder’s hard gaze shifted to Fluttershy, who flinched. “We understand.” Fine considered her for some time, but finally said, “We will speak of this to nopony.” “Good.” Seta sat and squared her shoulders. She closed her eyes and went still. Fluttershy got the impression of Tree Hugger meditating. Then she raised her legs up and bowed her head in that strange motion Rainbow had mentioned before. She kept the back of her hooves to her forehead for a couple seconds before lowing them. “I, Elder Serrated Tongue the Third of the Guardian Tribe, shall now recite the oral tradition known as ‘The Trapping of Rex.’ ” Long beyond yesterday; before the rise of the Sun Tyrant; prior even to the rise of the sisters themselves; in an age when thestrals walked alongside ponies in friendship, there was a great shrine. This shrine, ancient even at the time of this tale, is devoted to our beloved Mother of All Night. Yet in that age it had been conquered, made the home of a vile spirit known only as Rex. What Rex was and how he came to be, none today know. What is known is that Rex was a tyrant in his own right. The Temple of Tides was his throne and home, and with the souls of others he survived through centuries of conflict and turmoil. Whether he wielded claw or hoof, his rule came from fire and anger and envy. None beyond his lands dared end his madness, and so the creatures within suffered. For many long moons, Rex dominated the jungles. Then, one day, the Avatar of Madness appeared within the Temple. The Eternal Jest known as Discord gazed upon the spirit of Rex and found him repulsive, for though Discord was himself mad, he craved not wickedness or pain. So it was that the Avatar tormented the spirit, inviting Rex’s anger and frustration. Yet Discord eluded the spirit’s every attack and scheme, dancing upon the temple grounds with many a laugh. Within less than a moon, Rex’s power and strength – both his own and that of his nation – were sapped by the constant effort. So great was the spirit’s fury that he failed to see his own waning strength in his pursuit of the Giggling Devil. And, when the once-mighty spirit had exhausted nearly all his strength, Discord lured the furious tyrant to the edge of his lands, away from civilization itself. In a secluded battleground did the two fight, but the weary Rex could not hope to harm the Avatar of Madness. The Lord Rex was soon sealed within The Weeping Water, doomed to exist in an eternal confinement. The citizens of the lands rejoiced for the defeat of their cruel lord, and offered the Avatar of Madness his place of rule. Yet Discord desired no throne – the joy of defeating one so wicked as Rex was the only reward he desired. He left the Temple of Tides, giving the citizens only this warning: Gaze not into the pools’ surface, for the pools might gaze back. Moons passed. The lands once belonging to Rex grew wild and the citizens left. The Temple of Tides was forgotten. But we, the chosen ones of the Mother of All Night, have not forgotten the Avatar’s warning. We stand guard over the waters, our gazes high and our fangs bared. Never will we allow the monster to be free. This is our charge and our duty as the Guardian Tribe. Silence lingered over the jungle. Seta watched her small audience expectantly as Fluttershy observed the waters. They were perfectly still, as if that quiet pressure on her mind were holding it smooth. She couldn’t help imagining something vile swirling beneath the surface like a black cloud. “You’re staring at it.” She pulled her eyes away, guilt washing over her. “S-so, you believe that Rex is in the ponds here?” “Believe?” Seta shook her head. “We know.” Fluttershy winced at her tone. She looked to Fang. “Is that why you attacked us the other day?” “Don’t doubt the words of an Elder,” Fang hissed. “We acted to stop you, and no more.” Pulling back from her aggressive stance, Fluttershy turned to Fine. He peered at Seta, and she could almost see the thoughts churning in his eyes. “Fine?” “I won’t discount the story,” he said, seemingly more to himself than any of them. “There are far too many strange, unknown threats in this world. If they say there’s a spirit hidden in these ponds, I will believe them. I’d rather not risk the alternative.” His focus shifted to Seta. “But there are two things I would like to know.” She gave an imperial nod. “First, why would you openly give us this information? Given that the last pony who visited you did not keep her word, I would have expected you to be less forthcoming.” “I was wondering the same thing,” Fang growled, but she went silent when Seta shot her a commanding glance. The elder waited, perhaps to see if there would be any other interruptions, before answering. “I wanted to impress upon you the seriousness of this situation. Perhaps you’ll keep your word, perhaps not, but I do expect you to honor our wishes and avoid letting ponies come to these lands in the future. You need to comprehend the grave threat that Lord Rex holds for us all.” Fine nodded. “Very well. Second question relates to Discord. In Equestria, he was viewed as a villain and source of evil for over a thousand years. His image only improved in the last half-decade. What, then, is he to the tribes?” Seta smiled, possessing the air of a teacher lecturing a child. “The Avatar of Madness is neither good nor evil. If anything, he is profoundly neutral. While the Princess Luna is our divine goddess, and we acknowledge Discord’s role in battling the Immortal Sisters, he is still an ally to us.” Fluttershy cocked her head. “So… even though he fought Celestia and Luna, you didn’t think him a villain?” Seta’s smile didn’t fade as she looked to Fang. It took a moment for the younger thestral to realize the intent, and she stepped forward quickly. She spoke as if reciting an oft-quoted line. “Discord’s goal is entertainment. His attack on Equestria so long ago was his way of enlivening the land, which he saw as too dull and orderly. It was not a malicious act, though his intent was misguided.” “I see.” Fluttershy couldn’t help but smile. “I think you understand him far better than most Equestrians do. He’s been a good friend, he just goes a little overboard sometimes.” Seta and Fang exchanged a curious look. Seta asked, “You claim to know Discord personally. Tell us, what happened to him that is so grave you need to acquire such a dangerous ingredient for him?” Fluttershy promptly explained to them the story of the investigation in Nildia; how her friends sought to end the tsunamis and their ultimate encounter with the creature Tazel. She kept the explanation brief, but she still felt a pang when she mentioned Discord’s renewed petrification. “I’m afraid we cannot cure him with the Elements of Harmony.” “Hmm…” Seta glanced between Fine and Fluttershy. “Neither of you were there when it happened?” They both shook their heads. “But that blue pony… Rainbow Dash? She was?” “She’s the only witness who came with us,” Fluttershy said, her ears folding back. “The others had their own duties to attend to. I’m sure Rainbow would be willing to tell you all she knows if you ask.” Fang shook her head. “With all due respect, Elder, I find this story hard to believe.” Seta nodded. “That makes two of us. Tell me, Fluttershy, what proof can you offer that your story is true?” “P-proof?” Fluttershy scoured her brain, quickly realizing that she’d brought nothing with her that might indicate her friendship with Discord. Come to think of it, she couldn’t be sure she’d ever had anything physical that could act as proof. She cast a hopeful expression Fine’s way. His lips were set in a thin line, uncertainty apparent in his eyes. “Discord doesn’t deal much in the way of permanent things. I don’t think we can offer anything other than our word.” Seta closed her eyes with a heavy sigh. “Then it seems we are at an impasse. I cannot possibly let you deeper into thestral lands based on your word alone. The risks are far too great.” “Risks?” Fine took a cautious step forward. “What risks?” “That is not for you to know.” Fluttershy bowed her head, trying to think of something, anything to help. She couldn’t give up, not after coming this far! But what could she possibly offer to change their minds? She had nothing, and none of the others would be able to offer any proof of their own. Maybe if they had more time they could ask for advice from— Her head jerked up and she gasped, catching the attention of the others. “If we can’t prove our relationship with Discord, what about Princess Luna?” Seta’s eyes became saucers, but Fang was quick to jump in. “Don’t believe them, Elder! They told me the same thing, but they can’t prove they know the Mother of All Night. We all know she’s still on the moon.” Fine sent Fluttershy a knowing smile. “Actually, we can. Nye can contact the princess on a whim.” Though she only took one step closer, there was so much energy in Seta’s movement that Fluttershy thought the old thestral might start pronking at any second. Her tail lashed wildly as she asked, “How is this possible?” Fine’s smile broadened to a grin. “With letters and a potion. She has a system set up just for the two of them.” Fluttershy cast him a curious glance. Couldn’t he write to Luna as well? Even so, she held her tongue. Seta’s eyes were shifting wildly, her gaze distant as she took this news in. She licked her trembling lips. “Show me.” Fang’s eyes widened. “B-but, Elder, you can’t believe they’re serious! It’s bound to be some kind of trick.” “If it is, then we will see it for ourselves.” Seta gestured to Fluttershy. “Show us how you communicate with our goddess, and if your words prove true, then I will show you to our tribe.” Her head jerked Fine’s way with a scowl. “But if this is some kind of trick, I will have my guard throw all of you out of here, violently if necessary. We don’t take kindly to those who make a mockery of our faith.” Fine’s smile didn’t waver. “Don’t worry, Elder. Soon you’ll see that we speak the truth.” Everypony watched with keen interest as the letter dissolved in Nye’s bottle. Every thestral was in an alert stance, their wings opened and their legs spread across the ground. Some observed the scene with wide, hopeful eyes, whereas others peered at the bottle as if it were a coiled snake. The tension had Fluttershy shivering, but she tried her best to maintain a confident manner. Poor Nye, as the center of so much attention, was almost white as a sheet. Rainbow sat at his side, watching the thestrals like a hawk. Seta, her lips pursed in a deep frown, tapped the bottle lightly. “Is that it?” Nye gave a quick nod. “Now we wait for her to respond. She sleeps during the day, so it may take a while.” Many of the thestrals grumbled to one another, but a couple nodded their heads in acceptance. Fang wasn’t one of them. “What did you write in that letter?” Nye raised an eyebrow. “I showed it to you, remember?” Seta shook her head. “We don’t have a system of writing. We couldn’t read it.” Pinkie let out one of her exaggerated gasps. “You mean none of you can read? That’s just awful! That means you can’t read any awesome books, like a Daring Do novel or my cookbooks for baking delicious treats of all kinds. We’re going to have to fix that pronto!” “Calm down, Pinkie,” Fine said with a wave of his hoof. “First we have to get access to their lands. Steps like that can come later.” “Assuming this isn’t some kind of dirty trick,” Fang growled. Polar groaned and gave her a light tap on the head with his rod. “Stop speaking out of line. The elder says we give them a chance, we give them a chance.” “They’re just stalling,” Fang insisted, but clamped her jaws when his gaze darkened. With a huff and an extra glare at Nye, she stepped back in line with the other thestrals. Nye shuffled under her scrutiny. “To answer your question, I just wrote ‘We’ve met thestrals. Please respond promptly.’ That’s it.” “And will she respond promptly?” Seta asked, doubt laced in her tone. “She thinks you’re extinct,” Fine said, his tone grave. “She’ll respond the instant she sees the letter, that I guarantee.” The elder sniffed, tapping the bottle a couple more times. “We shall see.” She turned to Polar Aim, who repeated the weird salute over his heart as before. “I want these ponies under constant supervision. Not a single one of them is to be out of a guard’s sight at any time through the day or night.” Rainbow puffed up and scoffed. “What are you gonna do, put a thestral in each tent?” “We’ll sleep outside tonight,” Fluttershy declared. “All of us.” “What? You can’t just—” Nye’s mouth closed when Fine stepped between him and Fluttershy. She couldn’t see Fine’s expression, but it seemed to send a message, for Nye looked away with a scowl. “I guess we can. Just for tonight.” Pinkie cheered and bounced about the gathering. “Oh, oh, this is gonna be so much fun! We can roast marshmallows and sing campfire songs and tell ghost stories! Anypony here heard the story of the Candy Mare?” She landed before one of the thestrals, so close that he leaned back with a blush and glanced around as if looking for some method of escape. “Fun is not on the agenda,” Seta declared, her hard expression turning on Fine. “We will be watching for any trickery. If a response does not come by tomorrow morning, you will be leaving our lands immediately. Are we clear?” Fine only smiled. “Crystal.” Seta blinked. “What?” “Crystal clear.” Another blink. “Is that a yes?” Fine nodded, not at all phased by her confusion. “That’s a definite yes.” Pinkie was at Seta’s side in an instant. “Don’t you know what a crystal is?” Now it was Seta looking for a means of escape. “Umm… not really.” Another lengthy gasp, and the party pony launched into a lengthy explanation – complete with nonsensical tangents and questions about crystal ponies that flew over every thestral’s head. Fluttershy only shook hers; clearly they’d never met a creature quite like a wild Pinkie Pie. With how quiet she’d been throughout the meeting, it only made sense that the stopper on her boundless energy had finally popped out. The thestrals were in for a long night. The shouting woke Fluttershy up with the same impact as a splash of cold water, and she jumped to her hooves in an instant. This proved problematic considering her hind legs had fallen asleep sometime in the night, and she promptly fell back to her side. Moving much slower and shaking her legs one at a time to try and remove the painful tingling, she at last brought her attention to the shouts. “A letter! Get the elder, a letter has arrived!” Fluttershy’s heart hit her throat and a smile touched her lips. She moved as quickly as her weariness and stiff legs would allow, heading for the campfire. Nye sat nearby, a scroll in his hooves and a scowl set beneath his baggy eyes. Three thestrals stood at attention around him, one on each side and another behind him. Pinkie was already bouncing by the campfire with Fine at her side; if either of them were bothered by the abrupt awakening, neither showed it. Rainbow hovered nearby, appearing more worn out than any of them. Perhaps she really had stayed up to watch over Nye like she’d said. Fluttershy sat by the fire, offering Nye an encouraging smile. Maybe now they would finally make some headway. Seta emerged from the shadows, alert as if being awoken in the middle of the night hadn’t bothered her at all. Though her expression remained as stern as ever, the twitching of her wings gave her enthusiasm away. “The letter. Where is it?” Nye lifted it so that it was clearly visible in the darkness. “Give me a second and I’ll read it to ya,” he said, not quite able to rid the frustration from his tone. Fluttershy had always heard he wasn’t a morning person, and she doubted this even qualified as ‘morning.’ Seta threw a hoof up. “No!” His shoulders slumped. “What, ya woke me up just for me to read it in the morning? Gimme a break.” He emphasized his point with a long yawn. Seta ignored the complaint, her gaze once again distant with thought. Her hooves danced before she turned to Polar. “Are we certain the letter is legitimate?” Polar turned to one of the guards standing by Nye, who did that now-familiar salute over the heart. “Ma’am, I saw it myself. The letter materialized out of thin air in a flash of light and feathers!” “Feathers? What feathers?” The guard stepped forward and presented a single dark blue feather to the elder. She took it in trembling hooves. “A-and we are certain they did not discuss the letter’s contents amongst themselves sometime in the night?” “We are certain, Elder,” Polar insisted, his own wide eyes set upon the feather. “We monitored every conversation.” “Okay. O… Okay.” Seta bowed her head, one shaky hoof hovered by her eye. She maintained that position for several seconds. “We must do this properly. We must be absolutely sure.” She turned to Fluttershy. “You read it.” Fluttershy cocked her head. “Why me?” “Because I believe you are the most honest in your intentions.” “Hey! We’re plenty honest, ya—hey!” Rainbow’s outburst was cut off when Pinkie leapt up to catch her tail in her teeth and pull her to the ground. “Read it, Miss Fluttershy,” Seta insisted, her breath coming in quick but quiet gasps. Fluttershy looked to Nye, who shrugged noncommittally and offered the scroll. She took it from his hooves gingerly, then glanced at Fine. He had a confident smile. Taking a little courage from him, she turned to Seta and unrolled the letter. Every single thestral leaned forward in anticipation, even Fang. She trembled from the attention, knees buckling and heart pounding. Swallowing to moisten her throat, Fluttershy looked over the first few lines. Luna’s writing appeared curiously sloppy. Fang spoke in a breathless voice, “So?” Fluttershy flinched, sucked in a slow breath, and began to read by the light of the fire. Dearest Nye, I apologize for the belated response. In my excitement, I wrote several versions of this letter, throwing many away as I strained to achieve a more formal tone. You cannot imagine the sheer exhilaration I felt upon receiving your news. If I could, I would fly directly to you to meet the thestrals. Theirs was a race of ponies I cherished, for in them I found kindred spirits. I must admit that I shed tears when I first thought them lost to our world. But now you tell me they exist, and my heart nearly bursts with joy! I have not felt such pleasure since you rescued me from the curse of Silma Ril. If I were there right now, I would kiss you again for delivering me such joyous news! “Again?” Rainbow’s voice cut Fluttershy off, and she looked up to see the pegasus glaring daggers at her coltfriend. Nye suddenly looked as if he wanted to hide behind the thestrals and their weapons. Shaking her head with a coy smile, Fluttershy returned to the letter. This letter is already threatening to become too informal for my needs, but I will not write another. I urge you and the others to befriend the thestrals. We must not let this opportunity pass us by! If you would, please read the following part out loud for them to hear. Fluttershy winced; clearly the first half of the letter was meant to be for Nye’s eyes only. She would have to apologize to him later, but at the moment every thestral was paying rapt attention and she didn’t dare hesitate any more than she already had. Greetings, my little ponies. Too long has it been since your kind stood at my side. It is with great merriment that I, Luna, Princess of the Moon and Diarch of Equestria, announce my return to this world. I am pleased to declare that my grievances with Celestia are ended and I have returned to my duties as Princess of the Night. I hereby request and beg of thee to return to Equestria and embrace your cousins in peace and camaraderie. I shall personally welcome you back to our lands with open wings, a full moon and a gentle night’s breeze. Should the thestrals be united as a nation, then let us initiate talks of peace, trade, and mutual prosperity. Your princess of the night longs for your companionship once more, and will do whatever she may to ease this process. In the meantime, please consider these ponies my direct representatives in your lands: Rainbow Dash, bearer of the Element of Loyalty; Fluttershy Darrow, bearer of the Element of Kindness; Pinkamina Diane Pie, bearer of the Element of Laughter; Count Nye Stone of Ponyville, my royal confidant; and Verity Fine Crime, my chief advisor. Please grant unto them the greatest respect and trust, for they will be my voice in my absence. I would be happy to receive communication from any thestral who wishes to contact me prior to a personal meeting. For this purpose, please consider Nye Stone as your source of contact. I would be happy to receive as many letters as you would desire to send and can promise responses as quickly as my duties will permit. I look forward to meeting you all in pony for the first time. I promise, as Princess of the Moon, that this foretells a great and glorious future for all of ponydom! Your Princess of the Night, Luna Not a soul spoke. Every gaze was set upon Fluttershy, who gave a small squeak as she was reminded of the attention. The crackling of the fire was the only sound in the still night. The thestrals’ eyes glowed with wonder. A few had their jaws hanging loosely, and many began to sniff back tears. One of them behind Fluttershy actually sobbed. Seta fell to her haunches. Her front knees shook so badly they were knocking and her breaths came in a long, heavy rhythm. Her hooves rose and her head bowed, and every single thestral repeated the motion. They held the position for several long seconds, until Seta dropped her hooves heavily in the grass. She worked her trembling lips for several seconds, but only managed a few mumbling, airy sounds. At last, she managed to pull the words out of her throat. “The M-m-m… The Mother of All N-Night has returned. She’s… she’s really b-back.” Tears welled in her eyes, but she resisted crying with a visible effort. “We… W-we have to do this r-right. The C-Coven needs to be told. This… this changes everything.” Fluttershy started to set the letter aside, not caring that it was snatched from her hooves by an eager Fang. “Are you going to be alright?” Something between a laugh and a sob churned out of Seta’s throat, her lips curling into a beaming smile. The tears at last broke free, and she made no attempt to stop them. “Alright? M-My sweet toothling, this… th-this is the most amazing…” She closed her eyes and sucked down a short breath. “You have no idea what this means to us as a race. I— We can’t thank you enough. Th-this is the happiest night of m-my life…” She broke down, hooves rubbing against her eyes even as she collapsed onto her barrel. The others were talking excitedly amongst themselves, amidst laughter or sobs. Many of the thestrals were hugging and at least three were having an all-out breakdown, their weeping overwhelming all other sounds. Several were set in that worshipful pose. Fluttershy’s chest swelled as comprehension dawned upon her. She turned to Fine, who gave her a beaming smile in return. Pinkie appeared on the verge of crying herself, and even Rainbow and Nye looked pleased with themselves. She walked to Seta and lay beside her, gently rubbing a hoof along her back. “I’m happy for you.” The elder raised a hoof, revealing a bloodshot eye. With Fluttershy’s help and more than a few sniffles and hiccups, she sat up and embraced the pony. “You and your kind are w-welcome amongst the Guardian Tribe. I’ll bring you there myself, and I promise, you’ll be hailed as heroes.”