//------------------------------// // Chapter XXIII – Dos and Don'ts // Story: Journey with a Batpony // by Gulheru //------------------------------// Twilight stared at the mare with surprise, interest and a copious amount of caution. A new pony to become her retainer? Did she even need those in the first place? “Rowan Berry? Did I hear the name right?” “Yes, exactly, Honored Princess,” the kind reply came, accompanied by a corresponding, timid smile. “And... you say that the Covenant sent you to me?” Twilight asked again, feeling the need to be extra careful, however inviting the mare into her chamber. “It is their will, for me to stay at your side,” Rowan Berry granted her the answer, lowering her head in esteem before trotting forward. Her coral eyes glinted as she examined the luxurious bed and furniture. “Oh my...” a short gasp escaped her mouth. “What is it, Rowan Berry?” “Princess, this place looks fantastic! You have a haspadru suite!” the mare assessed with a fanged grin. Twilight blinked, surprised by the enthusiasm, then hid a chuckle behind her hoof. “Yes, well, the priests were most generous when it came to accommodating me.” “Oh, I would give up everything to sleep in a bed like this!” Rowan Berry exclaimed eagerly, approaching to rest her hoof on the blankets. “Hmmm... This is so soft...” she whispered with an expression that betrayed she seemed to have lost herself in the daydreaming. Then she glanced at Twilight and hid her head in shame immediately afterwards. “A-apologies, Honored Princess... I’ve j-just never been in a chamber like this, it’s a bit... overwhelming for me...” “There is nothing to apologize for, really,” Twilight admitted, granting the mare an understanding expression. “This place tends towards ‘ridiculously luxurious’.” Rowan Berry’s lips smirked shyly before she restored her composure. “Forgive me my... distraction Princess. As I have said, I am to become a member of your retinue. I-I hope that you shall find my service useful...” Twilight invited the mare to sit down with her at the table. The noctrale was giving a notion of being honestly bewildered by the gravity of her assignment. However... that could have been but a clever disguise, Twilight thought. “So, Rowan Berry, what service can I expect from you then?” she inquired, hiding her suspicions behind a mask of gentle politeness. “Uhm, well, I am a healer, Honored Princess,” Rowan Berry revealed, taking her seat timidly, as if afraid that a quicker move would damage the elegant chairs. “I specialize in herbal remedies, so I hold the title of lupule in our language. I... don’t know how to translate it to Equestrian very well. ‘Herbalist’, perhaps? But that’s not all we, lupuli, actually do...” she quickly added. Twilight recalled the corresponding Equestrian word, which she wasn’t going to use outright, from the interviews with Midnight. ... at the thought of her beloved, she felt a shudder passing through her. Where was he? Why was he still not back from the meeting with Midnight Eye? What was happening to him? “Are you cold, Honored Princess?” she heard Rowan Berry ask. The mare was staring at her keenly, her head tilted a little. “Oh, no, no,” Twilight gave the immediate response. The last thing she needed was curiosity concerning her intense thoughts about Midnight. The healer’s eyes became more keen nonetheless. “The change of environment can be quite stressful on the organism, even if we not always see it, or accept it. Have you been eating well, Honored Princess? Is the fruit diet alright with your stomach?” Twilight felt relieved that the mare’s mind went down the track of her profession. “Well, uhm, I am doing reasonably good, I haven’t felt sick or anything, and the meals are really healthy.” Rowan Berry nodded, thinking extensively. “And any breathing problems? The lower amounts of oxygen on this height might have an undesirable effect as well,” she continued, standing up from her seat and approaching, her eyes glued to Twilight’s face. “Are you sleeping well? Any signs of lightheadedness?” “Not really, no,” Twilight replied. Last day’s slumber was particularly peaceful for her. She stayed still as the mare put the back of her hoof on her forehead. “Cold... Hmmm...” Rowan Berry mused for a moment, leaving Twilight hanging. “Your face does not appear swollen. Your stare is clear... It must be mostly a stress reaction then. I suppose the summit with our Lords must be trying?” she inquired, reaching for one of the pouches by her belt. Twilight took a second to think of a... diplomatic answer. “Any meeting of that magnitude is straining to the participants.” “Mhm, mhm, yes... I have something for it right here!” she declared and retrieved a small glass flask from the satchel, containing some kind of milky substance. “Here, this should help with insomnia or anxiety from the prolonged tension. It’s potent, for based on papawe, or ‘poppy’ in Ekwestriyar, so the dosage doesn’t have to be large. Three drops in a cup of juice will relax you easily, Princess. Take six if you would suffer from a sleepless day. Just take care, for it shall make you drowsy quite quickly. I shall be around to administer it, if necessary,” she offered warmly. “Thank you, Rowan Berry,” Twilight replied, having the remedy put in front of her. She moved it to the side slightly so that nothing would be in between her and her guest. “But you do not have to prove to me that you are a qualified healer,” she pointed out. Which caused the mare’s ears to drop. “Oh... Pardon me, Honored Princess... I simply don’t want to be seen as but a... a nuisance and imposed necessity. If I am to be at your side, I want to be helpful...” She looked up at Twilight with glints of hope and sincerity in her eyes. “I wish to perform my duties to the best of my abilities, to honor the Immaculate Moon... and my ancestors.” Twilight thought upon those words, then nodded. “I suppose you are from a House that specializes in medicine?” she decided to bet and ask. “Indeed, Honored Princess. House Mountrose of Family Dusk has been cultivating herbs and treating the ill for generations. And even those of us that do not join the fruittenders kaste directly, usually help around the infirmaries somehow.” Twilight pondered whether Rowan Berry was sent here by Dusk Harvest specifically, if her lineage was hailing from the Mountain of Dusk. He had mentioned providing a healer for Midnight... Or she was actually lying so proficiently and— No. This wasn’t right, Twilight berated herself. She was supposed to be the Princess of Friendship, showing kindness and good will to the batponies. Instead, everything that had been happening around her lately made her borderline paranoid. And even worse – she was actually showing it! That was not what her quest was about, fearing every sound and shadow and pony. She was to show to the noctrali that one could go a long way when embracing friendship. And significant part of this process was trust. Yes, it was time for Twilight to get back on track! Even if it meant taking the risk. “Well, Rowan Berry, I am glad that I shall have another companion, especially one making sure that I am in good health to perform my ambassadorial role,” she declared, smiling widely. “And I’m certain Midnight Wind shall be happy to meet you too.” “Oh? Is that the Nightguardian that is at your side?” the mare asked and her face brightened. “Your personal sentinel?” “That’s right,” Twilight admitted shortly. Focused on stopping the worry that was attempting to invade her voice. “It’s a great honor, to have a Nocferratan for a guard, Princess!” Rowan Berry pointed out, her teeth shown in a broad grin and her wings doing an excited flap. “Ha, they are the most loyal and skilled of our warriors. Ha... I am looking forward to meeting him...” Twilight stifled a giggle at the mare’s dreamy expression. It was made easier by a... little sting right in her heart. She dismissed the sudden sensation, however. “Are you a fan of the Nightguard, Rowan Berry?” she queried instead. “I would not use that expression, perhaps,” the healer admitted, grinning sheepishly, “but that does not change the fact that the Nocferratani are amazing! They are like a living testimony to our strength, Princess. Honorable, proud, courageous... Exemplars!” she firmly stressed, rising her hoof. There was just enough emotion and certainty in her to cause Twilight to smile even wider. “I think I get the idea,” she concurred. Midnight was fitting the description very well. Rowan Berry checked her garments swiftly. “Well, if he comes around, I want to look as proper as my role allows me to,” she revealed, smirking jestingly. “This might not be a Nightguard’s armor that I am wearing, but it is a uniform nonetheless!” Twilight examined further that simple, green gown, as well as took a glance at the wide leather belt and sacks. “May I ask you something, Rowan Berry?” “By all means, Princess!” “I have observed that batponies wear robes and garments quite more often than Equestrians. And looking at your dress, I cannot help but ask whether it is another type of social and caste identification amongst you...” “Why, naturally! That’s not the case in Ekwestriya?” Rowan Berry asked, wide-eyed. “Not... specifically. All types of obligatory clothing, like safety helmets or aprons, are in usage on a daily basis, of course, but they are not treated like a symbol. While I have spotted that batponies don clothes as a sign of their profession and do so far more often than us.” “Well...” Rowan Berry joined her hooves on the table. Her eyes glinted. “The role we play in our society is of great importance to us. Everypony needs to do their part, build our future. We praise the Goddess with our work, first and foremost. I, myself, view my service as a part of a great scheme, a wonderful plan that the Neskaza Lunee... has for the world.” She looked down at her dress. “This is a sign of my quest, just like an arcemandru habit.” She stood up for a second, showing that the side of the belt had a stamp on it in a shape of a four-pointed star, however intricate, reminding Twilight more of a complex knot. “This, for example, is an ancient mark of healing and nature that, we, lupuli, wear. A mark of our commitment.” The edges of her mouth shivered. “Besides, speaking of clothes, we do live in the mountains. It’s cold here.” Twilight shook her head, grinning. “Yes, that’s a good reason too. I’ve suffered a blizzard on my way here. Not something I am too keen on experiencing again.” “It’s often enough to live through one, Princess,” Rowan Berry responded, her expression growing sober. “The noctrali of Frozenfog Range deal with them often and I have had my share of frostbites to tend to. Well, ‘frostnips’ would be a better word I think, but still!” Twilight knitted her brows. “I thought you said you were from the Mountain of Dusk, Rowan Berry...” “I am. But I have stayed in the Mountains up north for quite long, studying my craft,” she addressed the doubt in Twilight’s voice. “Despite our... rivalry, the more friendly Families usually allow noctrali from other Iugi to spend time amongst them, as a show of trust and cooperation. We are all Children of the Goddess, after all.” Competitiveness and solidarity. Once more Twilight met this specific cultural arrangement. Rowan Berry continued with a sigh. “And, well, any type of cold burns around regions like the Cataracts or the Quartz Panorama are so rare, a healer can hardly practice dealing with those...” “I see. I suppose thicker coats do that to you. I am prepared to rely on a grand amount of clothing instead...” Twilight assessed, her eyes escaping to her luggage. “A drop of gozalke helps too, Honored Princess,” the healer advised with a kind smile. Twilight stopped a grimace. “I still think I’ll take the clothing, Rowan Berry.” “As you wish,” the mare replied, hiding a smile, then lifted herself from her seat, her mane shifting around like a veil of mist. “I was informed that you shall be leaving for the Mountain of Midnight tomorrow night. Shall I come here beforehoof, or wait in the landing cave for you?” Twilight stood up as well just as a faint knock on the door was heard. Rowan Berry gave the passage a quick glance before Twilight called out. “Enter!” The door opened with a creak and Midnight Wind stepped in. Twilight barely stopped a sigh of pure relief escaping her. The stallion’s expression was inscrutable, but his eyes were cold, professional. His gaze rested for a second on Rowan Berry, before he saluted with a clang of his armor. “Honored Princess, Nightguardian Midnight Wind back and reporting for duty!” he exclaimed with unmovable conviction. “Welcome back, Nightguardian. How went the meeting?” Twilight kept the regal appearance, even though her only desire was to hurl herself into his forelegs. “Well, Princess. Honored Lord Eye of Family Midnight sends his best regards, hoping that your day shall be peaceful before tomorrow’s journey.” Twilight could read absolutely nothing else from his sentences. No worry, no fear, no respite. It was like he had put on a steel mask. “I see,” she merely replied, then pointed at the other mare, who stepped around the table to give a courtly bow to Midnight. “Nightguardian, this is Rowan Berry. She is going to be a part of the retinue from now on, as a physician assigned to me by the Covenant.” “It is very good to meet you, Nightguardian. Neskaza Lunee... welae tuu noc illum,” Rowan Berry greeted Midnight timidly, shuffling on her hooves a little bit. Her smile was coy and abashed. Once more this strange sting in Twilight’s heart made itself known. “I welae Neskaza Lunee... illum tueu noc tez, Yazembe Acine,” Midnight replied politely, keeping his stance. “Pleased to meet you.” “It is an honor, aiding a member of the gallant Nightguard,” the mare added in reply, her eyes kept on him zealously. “Should you need anything, Nightguardian, ask away. I will gladly provide all that you might desire,” she assured, once more bowing her head with a kind smile. “Duly noted, lupule,” Midnight granted her an impassive answer, his gaze switching to Twilight immediately after. “Awaiting your instructions, Honored Princess. How can I be of service to you tonight still?” The strange calmness in his gaze was frightening. “Considering we leave tomorrow, and quite early, you shall make sure to be prepared well before, Nightguardian. As of now, however, I need some information on the Mountain of Midnight if I am going to visit it. As it is the dwelling of your Family, you shall remain here to grant me the knowledge I seek.” “Your will be done, Honored Princess,” Midnight acknowledged her request like a warrior. ... just like a warrior. Not a friend, not a companion and not a beloved... “As for you, Rowan Berry, I am expecting our departure to happen not long after sunfall tomorrow. We shall meet in the landing cave with you,” Twilight ordered firmly, sounding more and more authoritative to hide the worry that was gathering inside of her. “Have a calm day.” Rowan Berry curtsied without hesitation, lowering her gaze in reverence. “Of course, Honored Princess. Nightguardian.” She allowed herself out, her shy gaze, as Twilight could observe, lingering for a moment longer still on Midnight. Her heart notified itself to her again... ... was this... jealousy that she was feeling? Never mind. She could not be bothered about it at that moment. The moment that Rowan Berry closed the doors behind her, Twilight shifted all of her attention towards Midnight. He remained standing where he was, not even a muscle in his body moving. He looked more like a statue than a pony, fierce and unshakable. “Midnight...?” she asked, seeing that he was not abandoning his stance. That seemed to have snapped him out of his stupor fortunately. He took a deep breath and removed his helmet. “Yes?” he replied quite loudly. His eyes were on Twilight, but his gaze was absent, like he was not paying attention to her specifically... but somepony else. “... is... everything alright?” she inquired, dreading the answer. “Everything is alright,” he replied immediately, with conviction. He failed to hide the blatant lie from Twilight’s heart. “What happened? What did Midnight Eye want?” she inquired, wishing to come closer to him. However, the moment that she was about to cross that invisible border of personal space between two ponies in love, Midnight took a slow step back. “Honored Lord Eye of Family Midnight simply wished to converse with me as his relative,” he reported in a deathly tranquil fashion. Loudly. “He told me that my parents are fine and that he is proud of my service.” That wasn’t right. That wasn’t right at all. “... what happened?” Twilight insisted on asking instead of accepting this evasion. He shook his head, trying to bring a smile on his lips. “Nothing, everything is alright.” “Midnight...” “Everything. Is. Alright,” he repeated himself with even greater volume. She looked him in the eyes, finding them bland, lacking that light, that spark that she had fallen in love with. “No, it’s not, I can tell,” she let him know, causing his jaw to clench. “Please, tell me everything.” “There...” he hesitated for a second, taking a deep breath, his eyes escaping to the side. “There is nothing to tell. It was a casual meeting and—” “Stop, Midnight. Please...” Twilight interrupted him, not having the strength to listen to lies. She knew well that he was omitting something. She could try and guess what it was. What was a surer bet, however, was that he must have been sworn to uphold secrecy. And yet she hoped that... that he would make an exception for her. “You can tell me everything, Midnight...” she assured him warmly, trying to come closer again. He took another step back, in his pained retreat. “Please, Princess, I—” “... ‘Princess’?” He mouthed something incoherently and Twilight felt her heart sinking. Her vision blurred when tears came to her eyes. “... I... I have a name, Midnight...” she whispered, trying to stop herself from sobbing outright. “A name I always want to hear you say...” The stallion shook visibly, his calm expression faltering. His lips quivered and his breathing became strained. “Honored Princess,” he said loudly, with dreadful conviction in his voice, “I cannot dishonor you any longer by this improper fraternization.” His each word was like a dagger piercing Twilight’s chest. She tried to speak, to object, but her clenched throat forbade her. And yet, despite that official, intense voice he was trying to use, his eyes were as teary as hers. “Forgive me if my actions led you to believe that I am attempting to form a personal connection with you, Honored Princess.” “Stop...” she pleaded. Whatever he wanted to say... it... she feared every word... She felt that her dream... that wonderful dream that bloomed but a moment, but a heartbeat ago, was facing an inevitable end. “You are a beautiful mare in my eyes, I cannot hide that. But I mustn’t let my inclinations break the ancient traditions of my people.” Each stern vowel escaping his mouth was like a cacophony to her ears. A dreadful cacophony drowning out every warm whisper of her heart that he had awakened. That warm murmur that taught her what it means to love and be loved. “Forgive me for my previous, improper behavior, Honored Princess. It shall not happen again,” he declared, saluting her. Those steel claws he pointed skyward he could have as well plunged into her heart. It would not hurt any less. “You... you’ve promised to never leave me...” she tried to say with anger, but agony took hold of her more. “You’ve promised...” He did not seem to take notice of her words. He just looked forward, the remains of tears in his eyes drying quickly. “Sleep well, Honored Princess!” Without a further look or a glance he turned around, his face a mask of rock and steel. Unflinching. That was it. The end. The end of everything. “... don’t go...” she begged, her voice waning, her legs trembling and her heart close to shattering. Tears were flowing down her face. “... don’t go...” she echoed again, a faint cry for help amongst the howling, mountain winds. Midnight reached the door and opened it abruptly. He stepped out, looking left and right, ready to leave. Twilight managed to shamble forward somehow, her eyes focused on his silhouette prepared to disappear from view. “Wait... please...” she tried to call out, one last time. “Midnight, pl—” She never managed to say more. Without any warning Midnight turned around, his teeth bared, his eyes fierce, feral. With one swift motion he shut the door, sending a rippling echo down the corridor. His fangs glistened in the shade and his wings spread, revealing their true, grand span. And then he leapt forward. Twilight’s heart froze. For a blink of an eye, she saw not a batpony from Noctraliya, a pony she had fallen in love with, but a vampire of legends. A threat, a predator. A merciless hunter. His gaze betraying an unquenchable thirst and his fanged mouth rapidly growing closer. She had no chance of escaping. No chance of protecting herself with her magic, distracted by her sorrow. His shade fell over her and her eyes closed in fearful anticipation of what was meant to happen. Next thing she knew was the feeling of his hoofshoes taking hold of her face, the sensation of cold, steel blades on her cheeks in disharmony with his warm breath dancing around her neck... and then his lips hungrily pressed themselves to her own. Her knees wobbled as the fear and anguish inside her became engulfed in a warm, comforting haze. Her body shivered from the feeling, making her lean onto him, throwing her forelegs around his neck as if compelled to do so by his mesmerizing presence. He supported her gallantly, continuing to caress her with a craving like never before. His tongue prying its way inside her mouth, inviting her own to a desirous, passionate dance. Twilight had trouble thinking. She would feel confused by what had been happening, but her mind was focused on one thing and one alone – that overwhelming feeling of passion that was blooming within her chest, renewing her spirit and her heart. She hummed and sighed right into his mouth, oblivious to everything else, fueled by the bliss of the moment. She had never imagined being kissed with such... lust. And right then, she wanted nothing else in the world. Midnight didn’t leave. He came back. Her warrior. Her friend, her companion and her beloved. Only the lack of breath forced them apart. Midnight’s gaze when she opened her eyes was intense, even more loving than she had previously known and experienced. It felt like she had woken up from a terrible nightmare right into an euphoric fantasy. “M—” she wanted to speak, but his hoof stopped her. “Shh... listen to me, Twilight...” he whispered, giving her a deep, piercing stare. “No matter what shall happen, what I will have to say when somepony shall be listening... or do when somepony shall be watching...” He looked behind him, towards the door. “And no matter what I will have to stop myself from saying and doing from now on... Remember one thing.” He moved closer, nuzzling her with such deep, pure affection that she felt shivers all about her. Then she heard his whisper, the sound of hope, travelling straight into her heart. “I love you, Twilight Sparkle. You are my light. I don’t want to leave you and I never shall...” *** “Sir, this is becoming more and more troubling,” Nettlie’s words were clear to Moonwarden, although they still sounded a bit like his head was submerged in water. Freezing, bone-chilling water. “Nettlie, I have told you before...” he answered, taking his time to formulate a proper sentence out of caution. “This is a common aftereffect. I have dealt with worse inconveniences, many times.” The mare shook her head, passing him one more glass of this strangely green brew she was pouring into him. “One thing’s for certain, sir, it is becoming worse. From what you’ve told me, this is the first time that you felt enfeebled the next day after performing your spells.” “Mentalism and other kindred branches of magic do require a substantial amount of concentration and discipline. Even that does not stop the Exertion... as well-explained by Clover the Clever in ‘Clarifying Clairvoyance and Clarity’.” He paused to take a sip of the concoction. It tasted astonishingly foul, like most true medicine. “And in comparison to her descriptions, I am doing absolutely fine...” He took a deep breath, feeling the warmth spreading through his body. It was a welcome respite. “If this is what ‘fine’ looks like, sir, I don’t want to see anything worse... I thought I would have to carry you back here yesterday.” “It must have looked quite discouraging. And strangely comparable to Stamp Duty’s behaviour,” Moonwarden agreed, frowning. Truth be told, he had trouble recalling the entirety of the trip back the Nettlie’s place. “Still, this is but a nuisance, nothing more.” “No, sir, I disagree,” the mare sat down by the bed, checking whether he was covered properly. “The feeling of chill lingering through the night. Blurred vision, muffled hearing, delayed reaction to stimuli... all with longer duration than before...” She bit her hoof in deep thought. “I appreciate the concern. And I respect your medical insight, Nettlie, however—” “Yes, of course. ‘But’, ‘however’...” She squinted her eyes and pushed the spectacles up her nose. “You have to start taking this seriously, sir. Telling yourself that you are fine is one thing, but the Exertion is becoming more profound whether you enjoy the idea or not. And whether you enjoy the idea or not, I shall treat it as an ailment that needs my attention, even if a temporary one.” Moonwarden rolled his eyes. “Oh, I do know that, for some, the ponies of the world are divided simply between the ill and the yet-undiagnosed.” “If that is the case, sir, you are ill,” she retorted firmly, smirking. “Now drink your brew.” The unicorn groaned before chuckling. “You see, that is the Nettle Leaf I want to see more often. Perhaps you should view everypony you meet as an unruly patient to be nursed to health whether he supports it or not. It might do wonders for your self-esteem.” “That... sounds like an intriguing solution, sir,” she judged, pointing at the glass he was holding. “Drink.” “Is this the moment when I should begin complaining like a colt about this rancid taste?” Moonwarden replied, complying nonetheless and taking another gulp of the vile goo. “Urgh, are you certain you used fresh ingredients? This is most foul.” Nettlie hid a giggle behind her hoof, her spectacles bouncing slightly. “Well, the ginger had at least five months, so...” He gave her an unimpressed look, which only added to her merriment. “You have to finish it while it’s still warm.” “And can I have the cake afterwards if I do?” Moonwarden ridiculed the situation, battling the sludge once more. “Yes. And mommy shall sing to you in the evening so you shall sleep better,” the mare retorted with a grin. “Nettlie, for pity’s sake, singing has never solved a single issue in ponies’ history!” he protested, shaking his head. “It is such a preposterous notion.” “Yes, mister Snowfall Frost.” “Bah! Humbug!” Moonwarden cut the ridiculous discussion short, although with a smile on his muzzle. He stretched, feeling the scar tissue on his back tingling from him lying down for so long. “Pass me my cape, Nettlie, we have work to do.” “Oh no, sir,” the mare objected and stood up. “Even if you are planning on carrying out any tasks today, you shall be doing so from the bed.” “This is ridiculous!” the unicorn objected, flaring his horn and levitating his monocle from the nightstand. “I am not old and decrepit!” “Nopony says so, sir, but until the Exertion has completely passed, I shall not allow you to get up,” she warned him. When he attempted to get up nonetheless, she placed her forehooves on his shoulders to forbid him from doing so. “Lie down! I—” At his frigid glare the upcoming words died in her throat. She removed her hooves and took a fearful step back from the bed, her head hanging. “M-my apologies, s-sir.” Moonwarden’s upper lip quivered. “Us being sociable is quite permissible. But forget your place again, agent...” he whispered, leaving the sentence menacingly unfinished. “I-I won’t, sir.” The unicorn huffed. With a resigned look he slowly obeyed, trying to spare himself the discomfort of his scarred back being pressed down to the sheets again. “Fine... Where have you placed those maps Quill Driver gave us yesterday?” he inquired, looking around the guest bedroom he occupied. “They are still in your bag, s-sir, I haven’t removed them...” “Bring them here, Nettlie. Let us see those marvels that the mayor was so infatuated with.” The mare quickly retrieved the charts, placing them before Moonwarden. He grabbed one of them, sitting up in the bed and spreading it, revealing a detailed, professionally drawn depiction of Hollow Shades and the parts of the Eastern Woods surrounding it. He cocked an eyebrow. Every single lumberyard in the vicinity was shown, down to the wooden shacks temporarily erected by the workers. Every elevation, valley, rock formation was pinpointed down. He spotted that even some trees were drawn individually. Those that were, as he imagined, more recognizable due to their shapes. “This is... something,” he mumbled, truly surprised by the quality. Nettlie sat down by the bed, herself studying the parchment. Her eyes skimmed through the contents with curiosity. “Oh my... it really is.” She leaned forward, pushing her spectacles further up her muzzle. “Solid work. Who made this for the mayor?” “The Nightguard, Nettlie,” Moonwarden replied, watching the mare’s expression change into a pensive one. “The batponies made this.” “With such detail? Astounding.” The mare pointed at the edge of the inky Hollow Shades. “This map must be from a month ago at least. That house on the outskirts was brought down recently.” “Well spotted,” Moonwarden commended her, his silver eyes following the routes marked from the town to the lumberyards. “You know this terrain better than I do – can you tell me something about their choice of transport roads through the Woods?” Nettlie grabbed the map and turned it towards her a little. She bit her lower lip and concentrated. “Well, sir, I can tell that they are avoiding all of the major thickets and utilizing the edges of the valleys that are less forested. Like here,” she paused to point towards a specific vale. “Here, this is where I have found that cavern with water hemlock. The vegetation north of here is so dense a pony can hardly cross, not to mention making a road through for a large lumber cart. And south we have swampy areas. Quite rich with herbs, but borderline impassable.” She pondered for a moment longer. “This would be the quickest route through this part of the Woods, unless we want to have a... three mile detour southward, at least.” Moonwarden squinted his eyes. “No wonder that the productivity grew, if the transportation of materials can be so much more efficient... But this sudden eagerness to aid our sawmills is peculiar.” He pointed at another side of the forest. “What about here? This route is suddenly slaloming.” “Oh, here?” Nettlie turned her attention to the said tract. “This area is prone to landslides, the locals say. And this hill here has caverns inside and the pits are sometimes so overgrown you can hardly see them underhoof. This way,” she traced the road with her hoof, “you can avoid moving through the more dangerous areas.” “The Nightguard, our heroes,” Moonwarden sarcastically remarked. “Well, this is a reliable map, no doubt. It is the agenda behind its creation that worries me.” “S-sir? Are you saying this can be the Maretonian scenario all over again?” The mare looked at him with concern, her spectacles sliding down her muzzle. “The reason for province charting is pretty overt...” he mused. “A nice distraction? Or is it? Is there a strategic value to it?” he asked of himself. Himself soon answered. “We need another to take a look. Can the batponies have an even more detailed version of these? Perhaps, it is a possibility. Should we ask them? Why not? Why yes?” “Sir?” “We have an opportunity. Yes, a sound idea. We need to be careful though. Oh, always, Moonwarden...” “Sir? Can you hear me?” “Sunfall Ordain needs to grant us some answers. Are you certain you can do it efficiently? If you can, I can. She asked you a question. And I feel him approaching.” Moonwarden looked up immediately. “Yes, I can hear you, Nettlie, why do you ask?” “You were... no matter, sir,” she replied, shaking her head. “What do you mean by ‘I feel him approaching’?” “Oh? You being kind and opening the doors for Jade Wind standing outside, of course,” the unicorn answered sincerely. “Wha—” The knocking downstairs caused Nettlie to jump up. “Oh! C-coming!” she stumbled, confused, then left the room in haste. Moonwarden stretched his back, sitting up, and repositioned his monocle. The subtle sensation of his mark placed in one’s mind usually warned him fair in advance of their immediate presence. So, the newest addition to his selection of operatives managed to show up after all. He heard a muffled conversation and the trotting of hooves on wooden steps. Soon in the doorway appeared a middle-aged crystal stallion. His jade-hued coating had that shine typical for the members of their race, his pale-nephrite mane was duly combed to the side and his onyx eyes, giving the impression of being faceted, rested upon Moonwarden with some hesitance. “Salutations,” Jade Wind began, lowering his head the proper amount. “Sire,” he added after a second. Good, he still remembered his place after all. “Greetings, agent Jade Wind. Come in, come in, we have been waiting for your return.” Moonwarden invited him inside the room, pointing at a chair in the corner. “It presages well.” The crystal stallion took a deep breath before taking the seat when Nettlie poked her head through the doorway. “Would you like some warm tea, Jade Wind?” “That would be most kind,” he responded in his usual half-tired and half-dignified tone of an old academic. “You’re welcome! And you are getting more medicine, sir,” the mare added, grinning to Moonwarden and disappearing, leaving the unicorn with an unimpressed look on his muzzle. “Suffering from a malady, sire?” Jade Wind asked, giving him a quizzical look. “Are you asking out of genuine concern?” Moonwarden retorted, smirking. “Naturally. What would be your conjecture?” “How to put it?” The unicorn faked a moment of deep thought. “Oh, yes. That an offender would behave with a certain dosage of kindness towards his probation officer in his desire to avoid having the sentence carried out.” Jade Wind stayed pensive for a moment before shaking his head. “I suppose that is a fair assumption, sire. I would not, however, prefer all of my efforts to be seen throughout the prism of me seeking craven escape from justice.” “Not anymore, at least, Jade Wind,” Moonwarden responded, giving him a cold look for a longer moment. “Your presence here is already a statement on the matter. How were the mountains?” “Cold and generally unpleasant. But I have found the profusion of minerals to be most titillating,” the crystal stallion answered, for the first time showing a trace of true emotions. “In the arcane aspect likewise.” Moonwarden raised his eyebrow, intrigued to what he meant. “I wish to wait for Nettlie before we discuss your main assignment, so feel free to share your other findings for now.” “Of course,” Jade Wind took a deep breath. “You are aware of the connection between us, the crystal kin, and the arcane ley lines, I imagine?” he allowed a hint of patronizing to sneak into his voice. Moonwarden was going to let it slide this time. He was not going to burst into anger over such trivialities as an old coward insulting him with his delusions of lasting grandeur. No, he was going to sit and wait for the moment. “I am not an expert on the matter,” he finally replied with pure stoicism. “But I do know some specifics. Whilst unable to affect those like unicorns do, the crystal ponies make currents of magic ‘harmonize’ on their own around them, have them flow more steadily, calmly. Hence allowing an easier manipulation of those. This effect also allows you to feel the fluctuations of arcane fields more proficiently than us, even if you cannot affect them yourselves. It furthermore makes you more susceptible to direct usage of magic.” “That was a... rustic defining of the phenomenon, but not faulty,” Jade Wind assessed haughtily. Moonwarden cocked an eyebrow. It was high time to put the fool in his place, but the unicorn preferred to postpone his strike until the most optimal moment. He stayed silent, waiting for the crystal pony to continue. “As I was staying in that cavern quite close to the stronghold of the bat kin, I have decided to try and examine the state of arcane fields surrounding me, considering the uniqueness of the bedrock I had acquainted myself with,” Jade Wind reported in a tone of an unmatched expert. He was one, truth be told. “And I have discovered something riveting.” “Consider me not appreciating dramatic pauses right this moment,” Moonwarden hurried him. “The Alps have an entirely unique, magical profile of their own! Whatever minerals are embedded in between the rocks, they are affecting the arcane field immensely. I could sense places that the currents were avoiding completely, compelled to bend away,” Jade Wind, entirely in his element, began gesticulating left and right, like he was showing entire diagrams to a class of students. “While in other points, the flow had... a rhythm to it. A pulse, a vibration. It was gathering and then singing outwards, its aria reaching through the lines. Like a magical ballad.” “Bravo! Encore! I did not know you were a poet, as well as a geologist...” Moonwarden remarked nonchalantly, taking off his monocle for a moment to casually check whether it was spotless. It irked Jade Wind just as he hoped it would. His voice was calm nonetheless. “I do not enjoy being belittled. I am no mere ‘geologist’, I am an Imperial Thaumaturge— ” That was Moonwarden’s cue. “You were an Imperial Thaumaturge, agent Jade Wind,” he reminded the crystal stallion with unrivaled satisfaction, staring him down, seeing his own, grey reflection in those faceted, dark eyes. “You were a famous expert on magical minerals and you were the greatest arcane theorist that hailed from the Crystal Empire and wrote about the adjustment of ley lines due to crystal ponies’ very presence. What you are now is a coward and a fugitive on the brink of being sentenced.” Jade Wind took a breath to object and cry out in protest, but something forbade him from doing so. His seemed to have aged instantaneously, his face falling and his eyes closing in feebleness. “... as you say, sire...” Just as he admitted that, Nettlie made her way inside the room, carrying a tray with still steaming tea and more of that disgusting green goo, her miracle cure. She offered the beverages to the two stallions with haste. She was attempting to hide the fact that she had been eavesdropping, but Moonwarden knew he had to grant her a lot more training in the matter. “Should I return later, or...?” she asked timidly. “No, Nettlie, stay,” he ordered, grimacing after taking another reluctant sip of the sludge. “I wish for Jade Wind to grant the report on Princess Twilight and the Border with you present. Let’s call it... a little evaluation,” Moonwarden proposed, sending a malicious smirk the crystal pony’s way. “Commence.” Jade Wind, taking just enough time to gather his thoughts and sample the tea, began revealing everything he had managed to observe since having been sent closer to the batponies’ domain. The stronghold’s defensive potential, the possible approaches, the siege weaponry present. The sudden increase in the garrison that he could deduce by the increasing number of active patrols and training performed outside. Finally, he confirmed that Princess Twilight had been seen being shown the grandiose piece of arsenal positioned on the ramparts. All the time he was being carefully assessed by Moonwarden and Nettlie. “... I was attempting to find a better vantage spot, but I would risk exposure,” the crystal stallion ascertained. “I have no information on the Princess’ exact departure, but from what I have seen, she was dealing quite well with the lesser officers, even if her encounter with the garrison commander appeared a bit heated, whatever occurred. It was not disrespectful, however... ” Moonwarden conjoined his hooves in front of him. Jade Wind did well enough. His observations were not stellar, but solid nonetheless. Obviously, the unicorn was not going to grant him the satisfaction of praising him. “You have achieved precious little, Jade Wind, but this is still more than we could have hoped for,” he declared slowly. “Agent Nettle Leaf, what is your opinion?” The mare pushed the spectacles up her nose. “Well, sir, agent Jade Wind fulfilled his obligation and granted us new insight. Considering that we have no operatives in Noctraliya, we have learned all that we could right now,” she rated the performance, giving the crystal stallion a kind look. “The news of the increased military presence... troubling...” “You could have counted the new troops more precisely and give us a better numeral than ‘significant’,” Moonwarden pointed out to the other stallion. “Not without the possibility of being sighted, which would jeopardize the mission,” Jade Wind protested, rising his hooves. “Oh, I am certain that was the main reason, agent.” Nettlie shot Moonwarden a nasty side-glance which she must have believed he would not spot. He continued unabated. “Nevertheless, your performance is... passable.” Despite the harsh tone, Jade Wind looked relieved for a split second. “Thank you, sire.” “Go and rest for now. Then, bring me all the notes you have made on the arcane network around the Alps. I have a feeling that I can provide you with a fine example of one of the minerals that affects it...” he admitted, rubbing his chin. “You are dismissed. Unless there is anything else?” “Actually...” Jade Wind lifted himself from the chair. “On my way here I have overheard one of the local watchponies mentioning that the captain of the municipal bat kin troops shall be coming to visit the mayor this evening.” Moonwarden smiled broadly at the news. “Providence grants us... That is most beneficial, indeed.” Then his eyes glinted mischievously. “Well done, oh great and former Imperial Thaumaturge. Now leave my sight. And enjoy the rest of your tea.” The crystal stallion opened his mouth but, met with Moonwarden’s merciless stare and derogatory smile, only bowed his head and left the room. When the sound of his hooves had descended down the stairs, Nettlie turned to the unicorn with an outraged expression. “Must you torment him like this, sir?” she asked with a blatant reprimand. It was adorable. “Feeling pity towards a coward, Nettlie? Have I not told you all of Jade Wind’s past?” “I... do not believe that you did, sir, but—” “Very well, I shall elucidate,” Moonwarden cut in abruptly, wishing to kill off the ludicrous topic. “Jade Wind was the Imperial Thaumaturge of the Crystal Court and a confidant of the last Empress, Her Luminous Majesty Rose Quartz IV. When one warlock named Sombra arrived and successfully usurped the throne, Jade Wind decided that he would rather remain on the winning side and betrayed his fellow courtiers and his sovereign.” Nettlie’s face was falling. “Oh, I... see, sir, b—” “Not officially, of course. At first at least. Through the following months he had been feeding King Sombra information about the resistance in the Empire, all while pretending to still be the Empress’ loyal servant, embedded in the castle as her spy. Until the fateful day when Sombra managed to quash the rebellion and summarily execute the rightful ruler of the Empire,” Moonwarden continued in a stoic way. “All due to Jade Wind’s aid.” “I understand now... however...” The mare shifted in her seat. “I mean...” “If he had done all of that because he believed Sombra to be a better ruler, more stern and focused and ambitious, if it had been a decision based on logic and rationality, I would have respected that. One can hardly find anypony willing to objectively evaluate King Sombra’s rule,” he added, shaking his head in admonishment. “However, what Jade Wind did was forsaking his vows because of a most simple, crude reason. The bestial desire to survive.” Moonwarden felt his voice rising. “He feared for his life. He just wanted to elongate his existence, like a lowly mongrel! Hence why I shall treat him accordingly, until he proves to me that he can find a higher purpose than the continuation of his sorry life!” At the final shout, the unicorn felt a frigid sting of Exertion in his still weakened mind. He laid back down onto the pillow, hissing loudly. Nettlie jumped up from her seat, attending him without delay. “I-I-I’m sorry I’ve asked, sir, I-I...” “Nettlie... you are apologizing again...” he pointed out, taking off his monocle and pressing his hoof to his forehead. “Uhm... sorry?” She could use such an innocent tone when she wanted to. Moonwarden let out a short chuckle. “Apology accepted.” He hummed. “You see... Even your vengeance was a worthier motivation than his, Nettlie.” The mare froze for a moment, her eyes darkening, then exhaled sadly. “It does not mean I am proud of it, sir...” she whispered, checking whether his head was supported well by the pillow. “Be proud of your results at least. Poisoning all the heads of staff in Manehattan General while avoiding detection and any collateral damage... Not an easy feat. Also having enough restraint to cause them to suffer without killing them,” he paused, smiling with genuine respect. “I am overjoyed to have recruited a mare of such talent,” he assured her. It did not seem to lift her spirits that much. “May I ask then, sir, why are you giving Jade Wind his chance if you hold him in such low esteem in comparison?” she inquired, taking her place by the bed again. “I know that Princess Cadance asked for you to take Jade Wind on probation, but she gave you free choice and you could have always refused...” Moonwarden smirked, closing his eyes to try and lessen the freezing pain. “Do you not believe in the shrouded goodness hidden in the abyssal depth of my black heart?” “Perhaps I should, sir,” Nettlie’s voice replied, “but we both know that you do not waste time on such nonsense like charity.” The unicorn chuckled, the discomfort it caused worth it. “How very perceptive of you...” He took a deep breath. “For his high treason, Jade Wind faces a death sentence. Considering the penal code of the Crystal Empire, a rather... creative death sentence. Even Princess Cadance explicitly stated that she does not expect him to be redeemable. And she shall reward my assistance regardless of the final outcome. But, to be honest, I enjoy a challenge and I like to work for my meal.” Moonwarden slowly opened his eyes, feeling a full, satisfied smile creeping onto his muzzle. “And access to the restricted archives of the Empire containing King Sombra’s private collection of opuses on magic shall be a most exquisite, lavish feast...” Despite Nettlie giving him another concerned look, he thought nothing of it. Oh, he had worked up his appetite just thinking of all the unique tomes that the Doomed King procured over his years of arcane studies. For now, as far as acquiring knowledge went, an opportunity of an entrée in the form of a batpony captain had arisen. “Back to work, agent,” he ordered sternly, lifting himself up. “Nurse me back to full strength and do so quickly. I have a date coming up.” “Yes, sir. More hideous medicine on the way,” Nettlie replied, not hiding an impish smile too well. Moonwarden let out a sigh of profound sadness, then chortled. All power demanded sacrifices.