Beauty Is Where You Find It

by Verdigris

Reconciliation

Chapter 15

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Once dinner was over and Rigel and the other hoof-maids took the dishes away, everypony walked out to the balcony. Luna spent a few minutes concentrating, then began. Her horn lit, and she gently waved her hooves like a painter applying a brush to a canvas. As Verdigris, Honey and Grass watched, the stars moved, resuming their places and brightness. She didn’t change many stars’ positions, as during dinner she’d asked the Coast ponies many questions; the constellations remained more or less as they were, but she “tweaked” them to match not only the star maps, but also to bring them back into their classic places.

The Coast ponies watched with interest. They’d never seen such grand work, and they sighed with pleasure, and perhaps a little jealousy. None of them were artists by any stretch of the imagination, and Luna made it look ridiculously easy. After about an hour, the Night Princess stepped back, and admired her work. She seemed to shrink, and the stars faded from her mane and tail, but she didn’t seem tired. She looked up with a little smile, then back at her audience.

“That was wonderful,” Honey Bunch said. “Thank you, Luna.”

“’Twas good of thou to watch,” Luna replied. “We have not been able to share our work often, and we had almost forgotten how enjoyable it is.”

Grass smiled, then hid a yawn behind a hoof. “Oh, I’m sorry, your Highness. I’m not used to being up this late.”

“Celestia will be back,” Honey reminded her. She looked at Verdigris, who stared up at the sky, lost in its depths. “Verdigris?”

He started, then smiled with mild embarrassment. “Sorry. I was thinking, and wondering where Uncle Mike could be. I think he’d have loved to see this.”

“He has, many times before,” Luna replied as they walked back inside. “We miss him. He was ever our staunchest ally and friend. His sudden departure took more than we thought from us.”

“Did that have an effect?” Grass asked reluctantly.

Luna closed her eyes, took a breath and held it, then let it out. “Aye, that did contribute to our downfall. There was more, but we believe it started there.” She looked down, and a tear ran down her muzzle. “He was all anypony could want, but he was firm about staying unentangled, as he put it. He said ‘twould interfere far worse, if not.”

There was a knock, and Verdigris closed his eyes briefly. “Come in, Celestia.”

The door opened, and the Day Princess walked in. She took a look and smiled. “Ah, I see you’ve worked out a few things.”

“For the nonce, ‘Tia. We have missed having friends, and sharing our work on the sky.”

Celestia walked to the balcony and looked up, then sighed happily. “Nopony else can do what you do, Luna. It’s good to see the night sky being cared for so lovingly again.” She walked to her sister and hugged her. “I’m glad you’re back, and I hope we never grow apart again. We can’t let our duties come between us, Luna,” she said seriously, and with a touch of sadness. “I still regret what I did, and I hope you can forgive me. Maybe then I can forgive myself.”

Luna nuzzled her sister. “It may be a long, hard road, but we will travel it together, ‘Tia. There is nought that will cause me to follow that path again. I forgive thee.”

Celestia closed her eyes and nodded happily. “There’s no way I’ll ever let that happen again. You have my solemn promise,” she said firmly. “I – I missed you terribly,” she finished, her voice breaking as tears ran down her muzzle.

Verdigris looked at Grass and Honey, a few tears visible in his eyes, then walked over and wrapped his wings around them. Honey and Grass soon joined them, and they all stood there, silently promising they’d be there when Luna needed them.

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“When the river was deep I didn't falter. When the mountain was high I still believed. When the valley was low it didn't stop me, no no. I knew you were waiting. I knew you were waiting for me.” – Aretha Franklin and George Michael, I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me) (Jewels In The Crown: All-Star Duets With The Queen)

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Honey Bunch’s Point of View

I don’t know how long we stood there, comforting the Princesses. Yes, both of them. Celestia was as broken up about Luna’s exile as much as Grass or I were about Verdigris’ injuries. We might not show it, but it still hurts; I’m sure it’s the same with Celestia. I can’t imagine what it was like to send Luna away, but you could see how painful it was in her eyes; she often thought about it before Luna was restored. I can’t speak for Grass, but I’m sure she’d agree.

We stood there, holding each other, until Luna said, “Gramercy. We appreciate this so very much.”

Verdigris nudged me, and I took that to mean to give her some room. Grass backed away, then Verdigris. Celestia looked at us with the most beautiful smile. “Thank you, all of you. I don’t want to stop this, but I think it’s time Luna and I had a long talk. We have a lot to catch up on and, well, I’ll admit I’m just a little selfish.”

“Of course, your Highness,” Grass replied.

“I understand,” I said.

“Horse apples,” Verdigris said. We all looked at him in surprise, and he added, “You’re a lot selfish, and you have every right to be. You two run along and take all the time you need. None of us are going anywhere anytime soon. Tomorrow morning’s soon enough.”

Celestia’s smile widened, and she hugged him. “Thank you, and you need some rest.” She looked at myself and Grass in turn, and I think she told us the same thing: Don’t let him hurt himself, but make sure you wear him out. He needs to sleep so he’ll get better. I thought in reply, I’ll do my best, with a little smile I’m sure she recognized. Grass had the same smile.

Luna’s eyes went wide, then she smiled. “Aye, thou needst thy rest, Verdigris. Shalt we make it a Royal Command?”

He looked around and saw the smiles, and he did what I thought he’d do: Face-hoof. “You’re gonna be the death of me yet,” he said.

“Not for lack of trying,” Grass chimed-in. We all chuckled.

Celestia and Luna stood and walked to the door – regally, of course. “I don’t want to see any of you three before breakfast. In fact, I strongly suggest you sleep in, and have breakfast here. Just please don’t break anything.”

Verdigris did what Twilight told me he did eight years ago. He lowered his head and said, “Yes, mother.”

Celestia stopped and looked at him. “No, not this time. Pranking will have to wait, and you don’t want that. Luna and I used to have some serious contests, and it’s funny now. Now get to bed.” She walked out with Luna trailing and looking at us significantly.

“Come on,” Grass said. “I don’t know about you, but I think we’ve waited long enough.”

“Too long,” I said. I nudged Verdigris toward the bedroom. “I’ve missed you. Both of you. I’m tired of waiting.”

Verdigris nuzzled me, flinching slightly. “Ow. All right. Promise me you’ll be gentle?” he asked with a sly grin.

“Nope. We’re going to turn you every way but loose.” And that’s all I have to say about our first night together.

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“I've been down this road, walkin' the line that's painted by pride, and I have made mistakes in my life that I just can't hide. Oh, I believe I am ready for what love has to bring. I got myself together, now I'm ready to sing.

“I've been searchin' my soul tonight; I know there's so much more to life. Now I know I can shine a light, to find my way back home.” – Vonda Shepard, Searchin’ My Soul (Ally McBeal Soundtrack)

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Luna’s Point of View

After a long talk such as we have not had ever before, I stood on my balcony, becoming re-accustomed to my rooms. All had been left as it was, for which I thanked Celly, but it saddened me that I had left so much in abeyance as the Nightmare. It had seemed unimportant, yet it wasn’t. At the moment, I looked out over Canterlot, telling myself several things, and feeling others. The thought at the top of my mind could not difficult to surmise.

I am home. It was wonderful, and I felt better. Not safe, and not secure. Not yet. It was still too soon, and while everything was familiar, much was very new. It had been only two days, and I knew becoming re-acclimated would take months, if not years. However, I could take comfort in my sister, Verdigris and his loves, and the friendship of the Element Bearers. All of them had accepted me, and that is the most wonderful feeling. They were the best friends I could ask for.

And yet, I felt disquiet. One does not go through the traumas I had, commit the crimes I had and face the complete loneliness of exile, and come back whole. There would be some time before I would be comfortable again. ‘Tia was right, we should not let our duties separate us again, and while I hoped the ponies would accept me, I knew there would be fear and suspicion for some time. They would not soon forget the Nightmare.

And so I contented myself with looking out at Canterlot, enjoying its peace and quiet ... and doing the best I could to ignore what was happening below. I do not salaciously enjoy watching other ponies’ amor, but it can be interesting. However, Verdigris and his loves were of interest to me, not only as friends. Try as I might, I could not avoid noticing he and Michael were very much alike, and I had to admit that was what attracted me to him. Yes, using him against Celly was part of it, but mostly I thought I could get now what I could not, then. A foalish notion. We would be friends, nought more.

That’s not true, and you know it. I looked around the sky after hearing Michael. I could not feel him, but I knew he was somewhere.

Wherefore art thou, Romeo? I admit to a deep strain of romanticism. Where are you, Michael?

Nowhere in Equestria, Luna. I’m only passing through, I don’t want to interfere with your re-indoctrination, and I still feel responsible, he replied. I have to admit I’m afraid I may do something to trigger a relapse. Call me a coward if you like; I shan’t deny it.

I had to pause. Michael had never flinched at danger, nor did he shy away from unpleasantness. The fact he was accustomed to violence had done nothing to sway my feelings; sometimes one has to cause harm to create good. What made me feel for him was his resolute manner, and his discipline in doing what was required, though it might be terrible. I do not blame thee, Michael. If not thou, then possibly somepony else, but I feel it was inevitable. All thou didst was speed the process along, nought more.

I heard and felt him sigh. I wish I could believe that. Truly. I can’t bring myself to come and learn the truth.

Then I will wait until you feel it is time. Do not be a stranger; it is not your nature.

I felt his smile. I keep saying this: “How well you know me.” I will, eventually. I’m only passing through, on the way to what has to be done, and mostly to look in on Verdigris. It’s good to see you again, Luna. I promise I’ll visit, though I can’t say when, as usual. Until then?

I nodded. Until then, Michael. I felt contact break, and he was gone. I had some thinking to do. He’d implied Verdigris and I would be more than friends, and I understood what he meant after a moment. Honey and Grass were mortal, while Verdigris likely was not. I would have to wait, but I had waited a thousand years to come home. Until something changed, I would be content to have his friendship and his love when he could spare it. It was enough.

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Honey and Grass woke to hear birds singing. They stretched and looked at Verdigris, who slept soundly between them. Honey Bunch remembered what she’d thought about loving to have him look tousled while lying beside her, and found she very much did. Grass simply looked at him, content to watch his face as he slept, as she’d done many times over the past four years. Everything’s perfect, now. The wait was definitely worth it, she thought.

Hoof-steps moved into the room from the balcony, and Twilight walked in, carrying a bag of birdseed. She saw her friends were awake, and blushed slightly. “Good morning. I didn’t wake you up, I hope,” she said quietly.

“How’d you get in here?” Grass asked. “I thought the door was locked.”

Twilight lit her horn briefly. “That way. Don’t worry, I just got here, and I’m no voyeuse. The room was pretty whiff, though.”

“You’re not … um, having a problem?” Honey asked reluctantly. There’s got to be a better way to say it, she thought.

“Not since that preening session I mistook for something else,” Twilight replied sheepishly. She looked at Verdigris, who slept peacefully. “How is he doing?”

“He’s okay. He still needs to heal up some more, but it’s relatively minor,” Grass replied. “What time is it?” She paused, then said, “Wait. You left yesterday, and you’re back?”

“Princess Celestia asked me to come back. Luna needs help catching up, and I do have an encyclopedia locked up here,” she said, tapping her head with a hoof and smiling. “She doesn’t need everything, but I can get her started.”

“Like Verdigris said back then, ‘Over-achieve much?’”

Twilight smiled. “I’m Princess Celestia’s student, what do you think?”

“I think everypony’s talking too loud,” Verdigris said before opening his eyes. “Good morning, Twi. It is still morning, right?”

The Unicorn smiled. “Yes. I guess sleeping in for you means nine o’clock. Well, I think I can get breakfast sent up here?” she asked, looking at Honey, who nodded as she stretched. “Okay. I don’t think they’ll serve it in bed, but I don’t think you’d want to risk it.”

“Oh, I don’t know. Sounds like it could be fun,” Grass replied with a wicked grin.

“I’m not going to make anypony clean up after me. We can sit at the table,” Verdigris replied before kissing her and Honey.

“Dibs on the bathroom,” Grass said as she got up. “Come on, Honey. We’re stinking the place up.” Honey Bunch face-hoofed, but didn’t argue.

Twilight watched them as the door closed, wide-eyed. “What brought that on? I don’t remember them acting that way.”

“It’s been a few years since you last saw them, and life’s left its marks on all of us, Twi,” he replied as he got up and stretched. He was doing it like a Guard, and they don’t really care about what other ponies see. She blushed almost crimson. “Sorry about that. Fact of life: Sex exists, and you have to deal with it, one way or another. That’s another part of it. We’re feeling really good, and just don’t care. I’m sure Celestia’s done something like it, just maybe not so blatant,” he said, trying not to embarrass her any further.

“I – I guess I’ll have to get used to it. I’ll be fine as long as nopony flaunts it,” she replied as she rang the bell, then ordered breakfast when a bright yellow, green-maned hoof-maid appeared. Verdigris remembered her name was Daffodil. Her expression changed to offended as she caught the scents in the air. He didn’t say anything as she gave him a withering glare. He didn’t know if she was disapproving, or jealous, and really didn’t care. I‘m on top of the world again, and nopony’s going to bring me down this time.

Twilight stood by the table after closing the door, thinking. “I’ve heard once you get started, you sort of, um, crave it,” she said.

“That’s probably true,” he replied, wondering where the conversation was going.

“How are you going to handle being separated, Verdi? Won’t that be a problem?”

“Probably. That doesn’t mean we won’t be together, though. I’ll visit every now and then, setting the ground work for the Academy and Canterlot University. The real problem is I won’t be in Canterlot. I’m moving to Ponyville when I’m done with training. It’s close enough, and it’s not as big.” When she looked at him questioningly, he continued, “Canterlot may be everything everypony says, but it’s just too big, Twi. Every time I went out, I was kind of overwhelmed. Oceanside’s a small town, closer to a village, really. Ponyville’s two or three times its size. There’s no way I could stand living in Canterlot.

“The other reason is when I was there waiting for the train, I felt right at home. The ponies were friendly, but didn’t crowd around a new face. You have no idea what that meant. Even Cloudsdale’s better, but I don’t know if I want to live there. I don’t like the idea of looking down on other ponies.” He shrugged, then smiled. “Ponyville’s a perfect fit.”

“You met Rarity and Applejack then, didn’t you?”

“Yes. They were arguing about the price of apples,” he replied with a smile that Twilight mirrored. “Oh, yeah, I guess they still do. That’s another point in Ponyville’s favor. Everypony gets along, even if you’re not that outgoing. They respect your privacy and personal space.”

Twilight nodded to herself. “They do, and you’re right about the rest. The only pony who gets right in your face is Pinkie, and that’s not so bad, once you get used to it. I like Ponyville a lot, and I think you’ll do fine there. Just don’t be surprised if I drop by to ask questions.”

“What, you, the curious, studious type? Why would I think that wouldn’t happen?” They looked at each other for a while, then started laughing. “Come on, Twi. You’re curious about everything, and I don’t mind talking to a friend, as long as it’s not too serious.”

Twilight sighed with relief. “Okay. Hmm, finding a place to live might be hard, but you can build a house with no problems. You’d just have to decide how close, but you won’t be isolated if you don’t want to be. That’s how it worked for Omnius. We’re all your friends, and you can be sure we’ll visit.” She nodded firmly, as though it was decided.

Verdigris smiled. “That’s fine. I isolated myself because I had to, not because I wanted to. I’d guess mom mentioned why.” Twilight nodded. “It wasn’t fair to them, so I took away the excuse. That, and I was getting serious about the Patrol.”

“If you’re going to the Academy, that means you want to be a Guard, right?” After he nodded, she asked nervously, “Could you handle Shining as your superior? Some Guards aren’t as strict as he is.”

Verdigris smiled again, but it wasn’t a very nice one. “It won’t happen. I’m going for Night Guard. Luna and I feel the same about the night.”

Twilight looked at him without expression. “That might cause a problem.”

“Maybe. I’ll work it out. Honey and Grass know I won’t turn them away, and they understand. Sometimes I wonder if I deserve them.”

“You do. You all deserve each other,” Twilight replied with a smile. Her expression changed to chagrin, and she said, “That didn’t come out right.”

Verdigris laughed as somepony knocked at the door. “I know what you meant. It’s okay.” He opened the door with telekinesis, and Daffodil led a few hoof-maids inside, each carrying a tray. “Right on time,” he said as Honey and Grass exited the bathroom.

(((())))

Once breakfast was finished, and the hoof-maids left with the dishes, Verdigris took a shower. Wow, she wasn’t kidding about the place being whiff, he thought as he washed his mane. The scent wasn’t as strong in there. Sorry about that, Twi.

When he’d finished and left the bathroom, he found himself alone. A note on the table read,

Verdigris,

Honey’s back on duty, Grass is off to classes, and I’m discussing how to bring Luna up to speed with Princess Celestia. I don’t know what you’ve got planned, and I think you’re supposed to take it easy. Like that will ever happen.

Verdigris smiled, and continued reading.

I think the Guards have a work-out planned for twelve, so you can get back in shape. Just please don’t hurt yourself, okay? You’re still not completely healed, and the Princesses are dead set on you getting better.

I’ll see you later today. -Twilight-

Verdigris nodded to himself, then decided to see if the gym was open. Maybe he shouldn’t do any sparring, but he could get back to form by working out.

He opened the door to find Blaze there. “Still watching me?” he asked.

The Unicorn nodded. “Princess Celestia and Luna insisted, boss. I don’t want them both mad at me, okay?”

“Sure. I was going to visit the gym. I don’t think I’m up to sparring, yet,” the Alicorn replied candidly.

“All right. Let’s go.”

Blaze led the way, and they passed the time with small talk. Blaze asked about Surestrike while Verdigris asked questions about the “short tour” the former Royal Guard Captain mentioned. Both had their curiosity satisfied by the time they arrived. Verdigris nodded to a few off-duty Guards as he and Blaze walked through the barracks. They did their best not to stare at his injuries, but he could see they were uncomfortable. He stopped and looked at them. “Hey, it’s all right. You heard?” They nodded, and he continued, “I knew more or less what I was getting into. The Nightmare had to be held up so the Elements could be found.” He walked closer to the group. “Look, I’m not going to hold a grudge. Luna wasn’t exactly in her right mind at the time, and she’s going to be fine, once she gets back into her duties. So I expect you to hold off on any judgments. I think Celestia would be disappointed, and I won’t be very happy. Get it?”

“That’s fine, but we have to take precautions,” an unfamiliar voice said. Verdigris turned to see Captain Shining Armor walking in. “Until we know for sure, we have to – ”

“No, you don’t,” Verdigris replied softly, his eyes flickering. “Are you sure you won’t drive her back into that?” The Captain looked at him, then shook his head uncertainly. “Then just do your job the way you usually do. Luna wants to make up for what she did, and making any kind of fuss isn’t going to make her feel welcome. She’s going to have enough of that crap from the nobles; I’m sure if it comes from the Guards, she’s going to withdraw.” He looked at Shining with just short of contempt. “It’s too bad you’re not more like Twi. She’s bright enough to figure all this out on her own, and not over-react. Well, not that way.”

“Sounds like you’re on Princess Luna’s side,” a Pegasus said snidely.

“That’s enough, Steel Heart,” Shining snapped. He was still stinging from the comment about Twilight.

“Oh, no, let him spew. I find it amusing,” Verdigris countered with a feral grin that dropped quickly. “What if I am? How’s that any of your business?” The Pegasus looked uncomfortable under the scrutiny. “In case any of you didn’t hear the last time I was in Canterlot, I know what she’s gone through. I know what it’s like to be different and misunderstood, and shunned because of it. Surestrike told you what Coast ponies are like, right? Think about how looking like I do could make them act.” The stallions shifted uneasily on their hooves. “Okay then. I know how she’s feeling, more or less. Lonely, unwanted, unappreciated, and so on. The only thing I don’t know is how it feels to considered a monster, to have everypony afraid of you. I’m not interested, either. You’re Guards, and your personal feelings don’t countermand your sworn oaths. I’m pretty sure Celestia wouldn’t like hearing about this.”

“It’s something I take into account, and ignore,” Celestia’s voice said from the entrance. The Guards all snapped to attention as she walked in. “As you were,” she said, nodding to them graciously.

“I guess you heard I was up,” Verdigris said, and she nodded. “Okay. You know my feelings on the subject.”

The Day Princess smiled. “You’re a fairly easy read, god-son, if you know how.” I know what you want, and I’m not going to stand in your way. I appreciate that you’ll go to such lengths on Luna’s behalf. She needs that kind of support. Thank you, she told him silently when their eyes met. “Captain, I understand your concerns, but Verdigris and I know Luna will never go back to being the Nightmare, provided everypony at least tries to understand.”

“Perhaps, Highness, but he’s dead-on about the nobles,” Shining replied. “Twily hasn’t kept quiet about them, at least not to me. I’m frankly glad she’s in Ponyville, away from all the nonsense. I never got to thank you.”

“You don’t need to. I can see whatever happens under the sun, and it was as much for her as anything else.” Shining nodded, and Celestia turned to her god-son. “I assume you’re going to work out.” He nodded. “I still think you’re pushing yourself too hard, but I won’t interfere. Much. Don’t strain yourself; Blaze will tell me if you do.”

“Oh, I was pretty sure he would,” Verdigris replied. “I’m just beaten-up, not half-cooked.” The Guards flinched at his off-hoofed statement. “Oh, come on. Every Guard I’ve met down-plays everything they’ve been through. Heh, heh, heh. Of course, it’s not the same, is it?”

“Over-achieve much?” Shining asked with a little smile.

“I could do without some of it.”

Celestia smiled at the banter, even as she avoided flinching. Verdigris sounded all right, but he still looked terrible. The bruises were fading, but his eyes still had the “bruised” appearance she remembered from the lightning strike. She sighed internally, but reminded herself Verdigris was his own pony, and wasn’t going to change unless he had to or wanted to. Some things shouldn’t change, but I can’t help wishing he’d back off a little, she thought. “All right. I can see you’re going to get back into shape your way, no matter what anypony else says or thinks. Just please be careful.”

“I will. See you later?” Celestia nodded. “Good day, god-mother.” Verdigris watched her leave, then let out a long sigh. “I was worried she’d stay to watch. There’s no way I’d push myself with her here.”

“Hmm, maybe I ought to tell her that,” Blaze said with a mean little smile as they continued on into the gym. When Verdigris started, he added, “I’m foaling. Just take it easy. You’re going to be hurting, even if you do.”

Verdigris nodded and carefully began warm-up exercises. “Oh, this won’t take long,” he said. “It hurts just doing this. I may be done for the day by the time I’m finished.”

“That bad?”

“She pounded me into the ground, Blaze. There was nothing I could do to stop it,” Verdigris admitted. “I never saw it coming.”

“And you’re not worried?”

“Nightmare Moon is gone, and Luna’s not going to become that again. We’re not going to let her.”

Blaze looked at him curiously. “‘We’?”

“Me, Grass, Celestia, Honey, Omnius, Twilight and the other Element Bearers. She needs friends, and she’s got them. She might have to get used to the idea, but I don’t think that’ll be a problem.” Verdigris pushed through the last of the warm-ups, then moved to the treadmill. “You didn’t see her when everypony visited me yesterday. She seemed ready to bolt, and I couldn’t let that happen. It wasn’t easy, but I forgave her. It wasn’t really her fault,” he said as he set the speed to a medium trot and started the machine.

“I’ll have to take your word for it.” Blaze watched as Verdigris trotted in place, then said, “I wasn’t sure I believed what I was told, but I guess I do, now. How can you deal with it? You’ve gone through more in sixteen years than most Guards do in their entire career.”

Verdigris shrugged. “Just lucky, I guess.” He gave a twisted smile, then continued, “I’m just taking it a day at a time, like Celestia or Uncle Blackwolf do. I’m not the only one, Blaze. Twilight and her friends went through a lot getting to the old Palace. I’ve got the feeling it’s not over, either.”

“Hmm,” the Unicorn replied. “Well, you might want to go home to finish recovering, once you’re up to it. The Gala’s coming up, and I can’t see you wanting to show up looking like you just got out of the hospital.”

Verdigris chuckled. “Yeah, that’s true. Don’t want to break my streak.” He grew thoughtful, then added, “Only if Luna asked me, but I don’t think she’d attend. She still has to get back into society, and that’s if the nobility lets her. There’s still a lot of worry out there. ‘Is she really okay, or is she faking it? Where do we stand now? What’s going to change?’ The usual.”

“How do you know this when you’re hardly here?” Blaze asked. “Well, other than to get over something.”

“Canterlot and Oceanside may not have much in common, but the ponies do. I’ve heard something like it from the Council, Magistrate and business leaders over the years, all of it aimed at me. I don’t know if the news reached there, but I’m sure they’ll be asking when it does. Most ponies barely knew Celestia had a sister; a lot think it’s only her, so this is going to be hard to swallow. I’d be surprised if Surestrike didn’t get a ton of questions.” Verdigris stopped the treadmill, then stepped off and stretched again. “Oh, much better.” He moved on to the weights, and began lifting, starting light and working his way up. “The problem is going to be what they’ll say and do if Luna decides to visit me at home.”

“You think she will? I don’t see why,” Blaze said.

“I love the night about as much, and I don’t think anypony else does. Uncle Mike admitted he knew her then, and they’re kindred spirits. I’ve been told how much like him I am, and that’s why. Celestia said we have a lot in common, and Luna said she wants to know more about me. It’s not hard to figure out,” the Alicorn replied seriously.

“I don’t know if I could deal with that, Verdigris. I mean, I’m a Royal Guard, but I don’t know if I could be a personal Guard, and that takes some getting used to. I don’t want to think about having either Princess interested in me, and I’m sure I don’t understand what it’s like, not like you do. If you do,” Blaze replied after some thought.

“I’m not sure I do, either. I’m Celestia’s god-son, and that kinda makes Luna my aunt. Celestia’s easy; she thinks of me as her son, and in a way I am. Luna’s a little harder to figure, but since we’re both outsiders in our own homes, that gives us something in common. I’m sure there’s more, but I can’t see it, or I don’t want to think about it.”

“Such as?”

“No, I’ll keep that to myself until I figure it out. I want to be sure before I say anything, and I’ll talk to her first.”

“What, you think she has more than just family feelings for you?” Verdigris face-hoofed. “Hey, we can still read ponies, I overhear stuff I probably shouldn’t, and Tango tells me what he thinks is safe. It’s not that hard to figure. She was alone for most of her life, and that has to have an effect. I’ll bet Doctor Maneslow would agree.”

Verdigris thought about that, then nodded. “Yeah, that makes sense. I just don’t know how to work that in. I don’t think Honey or Grass are jealous, but I can’t be sure. I just don’t know enough.”

“You could talk to them. If nothing else, you’d know.”

“Now I think I know why most Guards don’t get married.”

“Yeah, life’s less complicated, but you learn to deal with it.” Blaze grinned. “I kinda feel sorry for you. Three mares are interested in you that way, or that’s how it looks, and one’s a Princess.”

Verdigris stopped his lifting and gave him a dirty look. “You’ll believe anything. Look, I’ve got enough to deal with. Don’t give me more worries, okay? Besides, running off at the mouth is a bad idea. What if Celestia walked in just now, or worse, Luna?”

Blaze laughed. “That can’t happen. Celestia’s busy all day, and Luna’s asleep. Going by rumor, she’s a really heavy sleeper.”

“Rumor can be such a dangerous thing, Blaze. We can stay awake as long as we need to.” The Guard stiffened, then face-hoofed. “We are not angry, but we are certainly not amused,” Luna said as she approached, after nodding graciously to the few Guards who were there that bowed. “One wonders when the standards were relaxed.”

“Should I kill myself now?” Blaze said, looking resigned.

Verdigris got to his hooves, and Luna nuzzled him. “Nay, we would not permit such a waste, and Blackwing is due to retire in a mere few years. We wilt recommend thou as his replacement. As thy ... reward for loyal service and discretion,” Luna replied with a ghost of a smile.

“Well, there goes Celestia’s exclusive license to troll,” Verdigris commented. “I’ve done about all I can here. What do you want, aunt Luna?”

“We must speak with thee. There have been rumors, and other speech we must discuss. There is also something we must tell thee.” Verdigris glanced past her at Blaze, and she nodded ever so slightly. “Privately, please.”

“My place or yours? Oh, that sounds like a line,” Verdigris said with chagrin.

“Nay, ‘tis all right. Mine. What we must say is … of a most personal nature. After, we shalt sleep, and thou art free.” His look prompted her to add, “Read into that what thou wilt; we cannot prevent thee, nor would we try. Let us hence,” Luna finished, walking away.

When she was out of sight, Blaze hissed, “Why didn’t you tell me she was there?”

“And miss the fun? It was your turn.” Verdigris looked at the door and steeled himself. “Well, here goes. Don’t ask later. If it’s what I think it is, it’s none of your business. If there’s anything Celestia needs to know, I’ll tell her myself.” He walked out, taking advantage of his longer legs to catch up with Luna without having to trot. When he drew up beside her, he fell into step.

They walked side-by-side silently, enjoying each other’s company, though in different ways. Verdigris enjoyed what seemed like escort duty, while Luna basked in his subdued but palpable Presence. Not quite like Celly, but not dissimilar, she thought.

They arrived at Luna’s rooms, and the door opened silently. “Please try not to be overwhelmed,” the Night Princess said. “We have what other ponies consider unusual tastes.” She led the way in, and Verdigris gasped in awe.

Luna’s suite was nearly dark; only a small amount of light filtered through the curtains, but it was enough. The walls and ceiling were painted in deep blues and looked like the night sky. There were stars painted in a perfect representation of what was visible from Canterlot, and Verdigris wondered if they were enchanted to move in tandem with the actual stars; he didn’t recognize the constellations he could see, except in other seasons. The floor was covered in a deep, midnight-blue carpet, which had a precisely re-created image of Equis in the center. The illusion of being in space was very convincing. The decorations of bats, spiders and wolves completed what could have been a macabre picture, but the night-blooming lilies prevented that.

Luna removed her regalia, and instead of a Princess the mare he’d seen earlier was there. She got up onto her ridiculously huge bed and patted the coverlet beside her. “Please,” she said. Verdigris joined her and got comfortable, and didn’t protest when she leaned against him with a sigh. “We asked thee here because we have to tell thou something. We do not know quite how to express ourselves.”

“Just say it,” he replied. “It’s usually easier.”

“Aye, mayhap. It is thus: We find thee most confusing, Verdigris. Thou didst stand against us as the Nightmare, and yet found it in thy heart to forgive us. There had to be some fear when we appeared with ‘Tia.”

“There was, but I pushed it away. I told myself it was you, not her. And to tell the truth, you looked so unsure it hurt. You needed comforting, and I don’t hold grudges when it wasn’t the pony’s fault. It wasn’t you, and I still believe that.”

“Nay, ‘twas us nay-the-less, Verdigris. Omnius was correct when he said our anger and jealousy overtook us. We reveled in what we did, though that small corner rebelled. ‘Twas easy to ignore, though it made a forceful assault when thou wert at our mercy. Thou may have noticed.”

“I did, but it was gone fast, almost as soon as it showed. I wasn’t sure.”

“Methinks ‘twas what tipped the balance in the Elements’ favor, though ‘twas close, perhaps too close for thou to see.” Luna nuzzled him. “We thank thee. Thou mayest have saved Twilight and the others from us.”

“I’ll go with a team effort. None of us alone could have made a difference, but together we brought you back. And I won’t take any other tack, Luna. We all did it, including you. There is no ‘I’ in team.”

Luna smiled. “Ah, one of Michael’s favorite phrases.” The smile faded slightly. “How wast he, last thou saw of him? He is well?”

“He had to keep watch over one of his areas. He said something was going to happen, and he’d be there for a while. He didn’t want to take the chance that seeing him might have an adverse effect on you, so he’s going to be away for a while.”

Her face fell. “How long?”

“He didn’t say, but I got the impression it might be a year; just enough to be safe.”

Luna nodded sadly, but soon grew serious. “The other subjects we wanted to discuss include our feelings about thee,” she said, putting a hoof on his. “We have known few ponies like ourselves, who love the night. There is also thine own situation. We knew of it; thou wert correct, we were watching thee, and thine resemblance to Michael stirred our affections. Thou seemed perfect. When we learned and saw more of thee, we were sure. We do love thee, though not in a physical sense. We have had no lover; there ne’er seemed time enough. Now, we would have one, but are unsure how to proceed. Much has changed.”

Verdigris cleared his throat uncomfortably. “I don’t know what to tell you. I love Grass and Honey, and we’re going to get married, probably when I’m done at the Academy, and I don’t know how they’ll react. I don’t want to hurt anypony, Luna. I just don’t know.”

She nodded. “We understand thy dilemma, and will wait for whate’er may come. It may be ‘Tia has had speech with them, but we – thou and I – should wait until all is clear.” She nuzzled him again. “We are willing to wait, as anything worthy is to be awaited. We believe thou hast known this for some time.”

“Oh, yes.” He paused, looking up at the walls and ceiling. “What else did you want to tell me?”

“There will likely be talk of us,” Luna replied. “Gossip, speculation and rumor; none good, we are afraid. They cannot forget the tales, and they will not trust us immediately, if e’er. There is also the fact Celly wilt always hear us, and take us seriously. They might be inclined to attempt to use that. We cannot be certain, but the possibility exists.”

“They can blow it out – ” he began, but a hoof on his shoulder stopped him. “Well, you know what I think of that.”

Luna smiled. “Aye, we do. Art thou also our staunchest ally?” He nodded, and she leaned against him gratefully. “We thank thee.” She yawned, and snuggled against him. “Please stay, until we have departed in sleep. It means much, and we feel safe with thee.” Verdigris’ reply was to put a wing over her, and she murmured happily, “What have we done to deserve thee?”

“You’re you. That’s all I need,” he replied. I’m wondering the same thing, he thought as he listened to her breathing, which slowed after a few minutes. When he was sure she was asleep, Verdigris carefully lifted his wing and pulled the blankets over her, then got up without disturbing her. He spent a few minutes watching Luna sleep, then quietly left.

When he closed the door, Verdigris said, “I’ve got a lot of thinking to do.” He walked away, leaving the Night Princess to what he hoped were sweet dreams.

(((())))

Two weeks later, Verdigris was preparing to leave for Oceanside. He, Honey and Grass had talked about their relationship, and how Luna would affect it. He was surprised when they told him about their talk with Celestia on the subject, and they listened silently when he told them about his and Luna’s conversation. After discussing it, they decided to just take it day by day.

He’d also spent time with his mother, brother and sister, and was relieved to see they’d mostly recovered. Gemstone wasn’t happy to hear what Luna had done to him, but he told her straight out she should back off. It was his and Luna’s problem. Gemstone reluctantly agreed. Free and ‘Lance were still in school, but his sister was likely to graduate next year, and was looking at her options for college. ‘Lance was keeping his options open, but was thinking about becoming a Guard. Nothing serious, as he still had some time to go.

A knock started him out of his straightening-up and thoughts. “Come.” Blaze walked in, and Verdigris didn’t think it was a social call. “What is it?”

“Princess Luna commands you to appear at the Night Court this evening,” the Guard replied formally, taking a scroll out from under his wing.

Verdigris looked at the blue parchment, which was held closed by a dark blue ribbon and fastened by a pin that sported Luna’s mark. “Any idea why?” he asked as he tucked it under his wing.

Blaze grunted a laugh. “Princesses don’t always explain themselves.”

Verdigris smiled. “No, they don’t. Leave word for her I’ll be there.” Blaze nodded and left. “What’s going on?” There was another knock, and he opened the door to find Celestia there. “God-mother.”

“May I come in?” Verdigris stepped back, then closed the door after she entered. “I understand Luna wants to talk with you.”

“Looks that way.”

“It’s more than that. She wants to introduce you to her Guards. They’re special, and not just to her.”

“I don’t understand,” Verdigris said.

“I’ll let her and them tell the story. It’s not really my place.” Celestia walked to the balcony and looked out the doors. “It’s still painful to think about, even after all this time.”

“All this time? Oh, they were her personal Guards way back when, weren’t they?” Celestia nodded. “I don’t get it. She was banished, and the Night Guards were disbanded. Nopony except you and her could live that long.”

“Special circumstances,” Celestia replied, not looking at him. “I’m surprised you didn’t dream about it, considering the blood memories you told me about.”

“There isn’t much else I remember, so far. That one episode stuck with me. I understand how helpless you felt, after facing her myself.” Verdigris walked to her side and looked out. After a few minutes he asked, “When does Night Court start?”

“An hour after moonrise. You’ll probably be the only pony there. Most prefer to have me deal with their questions and requests because they’re still leery of her. Those who know her Court is in session, that is. Most don’t know she’s back.”

“Should I go in my armor? I don’t know how she’ll run it, but I’d guess more formality than most are used to,” Verdigris said.

“It couldn’t hurt,” Celestia replied with a smile. “Are you ready to leave?”

“Almost. How do I get my armor? I can’t see asking for another set; nothing here will fit, and there’s no time.”

“You brought it to you once before. It shouldn’t be that much more difficult.” Her little smile seemed challenging.

Verdigris closed his eyes and concentrated, picturing his armor and its location. When the visualization was fixed in his mind, he “pulled”, feeling resistance due to weight and distance. It took a few tries, but he managed by bringing one item at a time. The last item, his helmet, seemed to “let go”, and smacked him in the head. “Ow! What the – ? No fair, the universe already got me this month,” he said as he rubbed his forehead.

Celestia smiled. “It’s still good for a first try. It’s something along the lines of your teleporting here when you were struck by lightning.” She tilted her head to one side. “Can you remember how?”

“The second to last thought I had was ‘Sorry, Celestia. I guess I won’t make it next year, either’.” When she looked at him in confusion, he added, “The Gala. Anyway, that must have done it.”

“Oh, yes. You keep avoiding them. Why?”

“One, I don’t really dance, and two, I don’t go for big affairs, and the Gala’s the biggest. I’m not looking to impress anypony on purpose; I do just fine going about my business.” Verdigris grinned slightly as he looked down on Canterlot. “As wonderful as Canterlot is, I don’t really fit in here either, and I don’t want to have to find out I’m not wanted. Blueblood’s not so bad, but Sterling Silver and Trumpet Vine pretty much soured it for me. If they’re the norm, I know what I’ll go through, and I don’t want to do it twice. Oceanside’s plenty.”

Celestia nodded sadly. “I really wish you’d try, just once. You might be pleasantly surprised.”

“I don’t see that I need to. All the ponies I care about are either in the castle or Ponyville. I’m not going to try to be accepted by ponies who can’t see past their own noses, mostly ‘cause they’ve got them so high in the air. I won’t join the elite, no matter what.” He smiled. “Well, I’ll join the elite Guards, but that’s it.”

“Luna’s.” Celestia looked at him steadily when he nodded, then smiled. “I’d like that, and so will she. Luna needs somepony who’s like her, Verdigris.”

“Honey and Grass told me about the conversation you had, and I told them what Luna and I discussed. We’re willing to make it work, but it’s not going to be easy.”

“Nothing’s ever as easy as it first seems. Relationships aren’t cut-and-dried; they’re as different and unique as the ponies involved. However, Luna and I talked about it, and she’s willing to wait if she has to. It’s not as though she has any demands on her time that can’t wait, nor is she likely to grow tired. A thousand-year exile will change your outlook. I hope for the better, and I’m hoping it didn’t make her bitter. She missed so much,” Celestia said quietly.

“What’s done is done and can’t be changed, so it’s time to look forward, not back. I’m not going to let it worry me,” Verdigris said soberly. “Maybe something could be changed, but the gains might not outweigh the losses. I can’t imagine being without Honey and Grass,”

“And you don’t want to try,” Celestia finished for him. He nodded. “I know. Though it will be painful when they … pass on, I’ll treasure the time I spend with the Element Bearers, and all my ponies. Everypony is special in some way, but I’ll consider myself blessed that I knew them.”

“I’m going to have to get used to that idea. I don’t like it.”

“Nor did I, god-son. It didn’t dawn on me until the first century had passed, when ponies I knew from their colt- and filly-hood were gone. From that time on, it was Luna and I, while Equis changed around us.” Celestia looked up, and her gaze seemed to stretch far beyond the sky. “I miss them, and I wouldn’t trade knowing them for anything. When it happens to you, Luna and I will be there to help you through it. It’s something nopony should go through alone.”

“Another one of Uncle Mike’s phrases?”

“No, it’s one he heard from a friend, and learned on his own by living it. He’s been there many times, Verdigris,” Celestia said quietly. “Even more than I have, but I don’t think as much as Sean. Omnius,” she amplified when he looked at her in confusion. “I thought you heard.”

“I must have missed it. No, the fight drove it out,” he said.

“Don’t worry about it. We have more important things to concern us.”

“Such as?”

“Your relationship with Grass and Honey will be impacted by Luna, even if you’re only friends. I’m not saying there will be trouble, but there will be an effect. There will be rough patches, and I don’t want any of you to over-react. You especially. I’m pleased that you’ll side with Luna, but don’t do it too often, especially to make a point. You could drive them away, despite how much they love you. Cultivate patience, god-son. You can’t go wrong by being cautious, especially at our level. Mine and Luna’s. You’re getting there, but it’s going to be some time, and you need to grow into it.” Celestia watched him for a few moments as he thought. When he nodded, she continued, “It’s the same for Michael. He’s made all of the mistakes, and he regrets every one of them. He might tell you, but not all at once, nor willingly. Nopony likes pain of any kind.”

Verdigris watched her as she spoke, and he could see and hear how serious she was. “I’ve got some idea, but I know I don’t know it all. It just seems kinda sudden. It’s almost as though I went from zero to hero over-night, and I’m trying to get a grip on it. I don’t know what to think.”

Celestia nodded. “You and Michael are almost too much alike, but that’s only the surface. Just give yourself and other ponies time to adjust.” She smiled. “I’m always available, if you need advice.”

“Okay. I guess I’ll have to learn to ask for and accept help. It won’t be easy. I’m too used to taking care of my own problems.”

“I know. You’re not the first pony to do that and realize what you have, Verdigris. Imagine what it’s like for me and Luna. We supposedly don’t need any help. Think about it.”

“It’s hard to believe, but I’ll try.”

“Good. I’ll let you be. You’ve got an appointment. I’ll see you later.” Celestia gave him a quick hug and nuzzle, and let herself out.

Verdigris stood there, looking out into the distance. “For once, I’ll be glad to go home. It’s nowhere near as complicated.”

(((())))

Sunset came, and the moon rose as the last light of day faded. They must be coordinating, Verdigris thought as he watched from his balcony. Well, I’ve got to see what she wants, and I’ve got to admit I’m curious. Sure, she heard about my wanting to be a Guard, and eventually one of hers, but that can’t be it.

He turned from the balcony and checked his armor one last time. He’d spent the remainder of the day caring for it, and it shined. He’d had to replace the helmet crest, and in a fit of whimsy used his own mane and tail. Can’t just be another pony, ‘cause I’m sure not, he thought. He’d also studied Equestrian Precedence and Protocol, knowing Luna would probably revert to the formality she was used to, as was her prerogative. I hope I’ve got it right.

He left his armor where it was and walked to the bathroom. He showered, then began carefully taking care of his appearance. He was sure nothing less than perfection would do, at least going by what he’d heard from Blaze, Tango and Blackwing. Celestia wasn’t as strict, but the Guards set their own standards, and maintained them without compromise. It helped that he’d had his Patrol time, and Surestrike’s help. Trimming his mane and tail didn’t take long, and he checked his eyes. Still “bruised”, but there’s no helping it. He was sure Luna would let that slide.

When a half-hour remained, he put on his armor, checking it carefully. Should I wear the blades? he wondered. Supposedly, the Night Guards have to be ready at all times. He shrugged. Maybe. I’ll just check them, to be sure.

Please wear them, Verdigris.

As you wish, Luna. He sighed. Will you please stop doing that? I know you two watch, but I’d like to not have that on my mind all the time. It’s hard to be yourself when you’re being watched.

He felt her smile. Aye, ‘tis true. Very well, we shalt refrain inside the palace, and inform thee as the need arises. Acceptable? He nodded. Good. Come at thine own pace; we do not require perfection, only thy best. The contact broke, and he resumed armoring-up.

At fifteen minutes to go, he stood in front of the mirror, admiring himself. Gotta admit, this makes me look good. Hmm, I wonder if that’s the worst reason to join. He shook his head, then strapped on the wing blades. He swung his wings, settling the blades into place, then carefully folded them to his side. He’d heard that carelessness got more than a few ponies cut. Can’t go to my first Audience bleeding. Bad form, he thought with a smile, then glanced at the clock. Ten minutes remained. Time.

He stepped outside to find Blaze waiting. The Guard took a look and nodded. “You’ll do. Come on.”

They walked along for a minute, and Verdigris asked, “When did I rate a Guard?”

“Shining Armor’s pretty strict, and since you have the rank, you get the perks. Like it or not, boss,” the Unicorn replied almost smugly.

“I ought to wipe the floor with you two, but it wouldn’t help, would it?” Blaze’s smile widened. “Didn’t think so. All right, I’ll put up with it, but only on formal occasions. Too bad I won’t be here for them.”

“You forgot Royal Commands, but I don’t blame you. Even Celestia gets tired of it. That’s why she goes to the spa every day. She can ‘get away from the flag’, and just be herself for a few hours.” They reached the Court Hall doors and stopped. “Good luck, boss. It’s all you from here.”

Verdigris gave him a sour look. “Gee, thanks.” He applied his magic and the doors opened, then closed behind him.

(((())))

Verdigris stood on the deep blue runner that covered the onyx tiles, and felt a strong sense of dèjá vu; it vividly reminded him of the Dream Realm, and Luna’s brief smile confirmed his suspicion. He walked forward silently in the guttering torch-light, coming to a stop before the dais. He bowed, spreading his wings wide, and held it. “I am come at thy command, Highness,” he said softly. His voice carried and echoed, almost as though he was using the Royal Canterlot Voice, but it was only an effect of the hall’s acoustics. It added just the right tone of eeriness to the atmosphere.

He never heard the hoof-steps, but a feather-light touch on his nose made him open his eyes. Luna stood there, regal and aloof, except for her eyes, which sparkled. “Arise, Verdigris. We would have converse, and make introductions.” He stood and folded his wings as two Pegasai in Luna’s livery stepped from behind the dais and flanked her. “These are mine oldest and dearest friends from before, and my most trusted. Hammer and Anvil,” she said nodding to each.

Verdigris nodded to them, then studied both Night Guards while they looked him over. He noticed a few differences, but they didn’t catch his attention. Still, something seemed off. He scanned magically and discovered there was no enchantment on their armor. He was seeing the real ponies, not some illusion. “I see,” he said. “Celestia said you were special, but not how.”

Hammer nodded, while Anvil looked at the Princess, then began speaking after she nodded. “Aye, it’s true. We don’t know what was done, but she said it was necessary, given our duties.” The slightly smaller Pegasus grinned evilly. “Didn’t hurt in negotiations, either.”

Verdigris chuckled. “I’ll wager.” He looked at Hammer, who’d stopped assessing him and looked at Luna for a moment. “Well, do I pass muster?”

“Maybe,” the Guard replied. “That will be up to her Highness.” He tilted his head to one side, then asked, “ ‘Whom do you serve?’ ”

Verdigris jerked, then stood straight, called on his power and looked down on the Guard. “I am a Hawk. ‘I serve no pony; I serve Equestria’.” He watched as Hammer gaped at him, and Anvil ducked involuntarily. “Sorry about that. I don’t quite have it under control,” he said, then smiled. “Yet.”

“Thou mayest be required to vacate thine Oath,” Luna said flatly. He gave her a look that said he didn’t believe it.

“By whom?” Verdigris replied as he shrank. “Remember what I said two weeks ago?” She nodded uneasily. “Are you sure about that?”

“Nay, ‘twill not be necessary. We set the Night Guard standards, not our sister nor her own. We value loyalty above all, Verdigris.”

He looked at her Guards. “Even above friendship? I’m beginning to remember a few things from that time, Luna. Isn’t that part of what did it?”

“H-how?” Luna started, then looked into his eyes. “Ah, ‘Tia’s blood memories.” She looked down sadly after he nodded. “Aye, at the end we accused our most loyal friends of betraying us, we were so far gone. Thou hast good reason to refuse, but we wilt do no such thing. Trust is too great a thing to put a price upon, of which we have learned a hard lesson. Nought shalt come of it, and so ‘twill ne’er happen.”

Verdigris leaned forward and nuzzled her. “Then I’m yours, if you’ll have me. Once I complete that required first year, of course.” Her smile said more than words could. “Is there aught else, Highness?”

“Nay, but please tarry. We have seen so little of each other, and we wish thee to be friends.”

“I have no problem with that. Do either of you?” Hammer barely shook his head, while Anvil replied, “No. No problem.”

“I can wait to go home until tomorrow.” When the Guards flinched, he said, “Oh, sorry about that. You’re kinda in my shoes, but instead of ponies not wanting you, there’s nopony there you know.”

“Are you serious?” Hammer asked.

Verdigris looked him in the eye, then removed his helmet, breaking the enchantment. The neutral grey-green color of a Patrol pony vanished, revealing Verdigris’ true colors. “I come from a Coast town. I’ll guess you have the idea they’re like most small towns. Close. Think of how looking like this could make them react. Now guess again, ‘cause it’s at least three times as bad. Ponyville, for example, is nowhere near as bad Oceanside.”

“Verdigris, please,” Luna said quietly. “Thou art in no competition.”

He stopped, closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths. “Sorry. See, this is what – they can do, just by – shunning you. You’re probably – better off,” he said between breaths. He seemed to be fighting the urge to cry. Or scream.

Hammer and Anvil looked at each other, then at Luna, their thoughts matching. Is this true?

Aye, verily. We saw it as he grew and matured. The time since the First Hearths-Warming may have ne’er passed, the event itself ne’er happened. Nought different is good to them. “We must speak with Verdigris alone. Please take thy posts at the door,” Luna said as Verdigris fought to stay composed.

They nodded and bowed, then walked to the doors. When they opened, they saw Blaze standing there, and looked back as the doors closed, cutting off the view of Luna wrapping her wings around her nephew. “Wait, he rates a Guard?” Anvil asked.

“Yep. He’s Celestia’s god-son, and her blood flows in him. It’s complicated, but, well...” Blaze trailed off. “I think they understand each other a lot more than anypony can guess.”

Hammer nodded, then took up his position; Anvil soon followed. Blaze nodded, then stood beside Anvil. All three went still and stoic, their eyes betraying nothing of their thoughts, which were almost identical: That is so unfair.

(((())))

“I must hold on; this happens all the time. I still find my faith in you. I can’t hold on; this happens all the time. I still find my way to you.” – Cold, Happens All the Time (A Different Kind of Pain)

(((())))

Verdigris sat and closed his eyes. He didn’t make a sound, but tears ran. “Damn it, I thought I was past that,” he muttered.

“Nay, thou wilt never leave it behind,” Luna countered as she embraced him. “As thou hast learned, the hurt ne’er leaves, and mayhap wilt turn to rage, an thou dost not maintain control. We know that beyond question, Verdigris.”

He nodded, then began to cry on her shoulder. Luna held him, tears starting to form in her eyes. They do not, cannot and mayhap will not understand, Verdigris, she told him silently. Little has changed in a thousand years, in that regard. Thou must let go, else thine anger poison thee.

I don’t know if I can. It still hurts, even though I made my peace with it. It just won’t go away.

Luna sighed. She knew exactly how he felt. Even though it was gone, some hint of the resentment and anger she’d felt lingered, more than enough to understand Verdigris’ feelings. “We should have waited, and we are most sorry,” she murmured in his ear. “We wanted so much for thou to be our stalwart, and ne’er considered. Canst thou forgive us?”

He chuckled. “I think that was settled when we saw each other afterward.” He sighed. “I know what’s wrong with me. I’m still a little afraid of you, and I was over-reacting to what I saw. I just couldn’t push it away, this time. I should be apologizing.”

Luna pulled back and looked at him as he opened his eyes, and she could see the lingering fear. “We had no idea. E’en now, after our talks?”

“Doctor Maneslow would have some complicated name for it, but yes. You can talk about it, but that doesn’t make it go away. I’m still upset at the ponies back home, and I’m not sure how, but the fear brought it all back, with a vengeance. It was all mixed together. I couldn’t separate them, and that’s why I started on Hammer and Anvil. I was trying to tell them I understood, but, well...” he trailed off.

Luna hugged him. He stiffened briefly, then relaxed. “Aye, there is much work left yet. Thou art not the only pony who needs his help. We have had our own sessions, mostly so we canst positively identify our feelings, Verdigris. All that festered for so long that we cannot tell when it became what drove us into the abyss. It was horrible, and yet so seductive. Imagine, if thou wilt, the power it brought.”

“ ‘If you only knew the power of the Dark Side’,” said a familiar voice from a dark corner. “But then, I’d say the both of you know exactly what that is.”

“M-Michael?” Luna whispered. Out of the corner stepped a familiar black and silver Alicorn. “Do mine eyes deceive me?”

He smiled. “They never did.” He sobered as he looked at them. “And I’m glad I occasionally break my own rules. I was passing through, and I felt Verdigris. I had to come.” He gravely accepted the hug Luna gave him. He looked her in the eyes and said, “I’m so sorry. It’s inadequate, but I mean it with all my heart.”

“Nay, ‘tis enough.” Luna closed her eyes and sighed. “‘Tis so good to see thee again, Michael.”

“Same here, Uncle Mike,” Verdigris said. “But you said coming here could be bad.”

“Could be and will be are not the same, lad. Celestia asked me to look after you, and I keep my promises. I recognised what you were feeling, and I knew you were at another Threshold. Nothing could keep me away.” Michael looked at Verdigris for a long moment, then nodded. “Yes, it’s still there. Not only the resentment, but the fear. It’s fading, but you’ll not be free of it for some time.”

Verdigris’ head drooped. “I thought I had it under control, Uncle Mike. I thought I was past it.”

“Ah, yes. Well, there’s your trouble. You thought. Thinking and feeling aren’t the same, Verdigris. Emotions are more powerful than you’ll ever know. Your mind was still reeling from … that night, and you might not have even been aware of it. Not only that, your thoughts of Oceanside were getting mixed-up in it, and there you were. Fear is unreasoning. Never forget that.”

“Aye, all too true,” Luna agreed as she released him. She looked into his eyes, and her expression saddened. “We should have understood, Michael. Thou wert being kind, and we never realized.”

“You’re still young, Luna,” he replied with an indulgent smile. “I’ve made allowances before. I’ve no doubt I’ll be making them until the end of time.”

“Oh, thou didst not – ” Luna fumed at him, almost pouting like a filly. She took a breath and said, “Thy words are wise, but thy delivery leaves much to desire.”

“I know. That’s why I do it, so you’ll remember.” Michael looked at his nephew. “I know it’s hard, but you’ll have to trust me when I say it will end. It’s not as bad as earlier, Verdigris. As I’ve said before, nothing is easy – ”

“Nothing good is free,” Verdigris finished. “It’s just so frustrating. I want to get on with it.”

“You can’t force it to happen. Do you think I’m made of stone? I’ve fears I keep buried until I can deal with them properly, fears you can’t possibly comprehend, they’re so bad. I’ve heard comments, every one about how I manage not to crumble, how I manage not to go mad, how I manage not to fall into despair. Well, I don’t. In public. I deal with them alone.” He held up a hoof, forestalling them. “Ultimately, we’re alone with the things we keep to ourselves, even when with loved ones. They can’t help. No one can.”

The youngster sat down hard, his mouth hanging open. “Nopony?” he asked softly. Michael closed his eyes and shook his head slowly. “Then, how?”

“I can’t tell you. Everyone deals with their fears and anxieties in their own way. What works for me will most definitely not help you or Luna, just as your coping mechanisms won’t help me.” He looked outside. “As I said, ultimately, we’re alone when we fight our demons. No one else understands them, except in very rare circumstances.”

Luna and Verdigris looked at each other in surprise. They seemed to see something they hadn’t noticed before, and blushed almost simultaneously as they looked at a few suddenly interesting furnishings. Michael chuckled. “Aye, you’ll do all right, but not right away. Did what I said help at all?”

“Immeasurably,” Luna replied softly.

“It sure did,” Verdigris added. “Maybe it won’t go away, but I know what it is.”

Michael grunted a laugh. “ ‘What do you see when you turn out the light? I can’t tell you, but I know it’s mine. I get by with a little help from my friends’,” he quoted. “It’s true.”

“Canst thou remain, Michael? We have missed thee.”

He shook his head sadly. “I can’t. The trouble I’m having isn’t over. I’d a bit of a lull, and was tracing them back when I felt Verdigris’ distress. I’ve little time, and can’t stray. When they notice I’ve gone, they’ll start more shenanigans, and I can’t let that happen,” he replied softly. He leaned forward and whispered in her ear, “You’ve got what you want, Luna. You just have to decide how much, and whether to take it.”

She stepped back, her expression mixed; surprise, revulsion and desire warred on her face. “We – we cannot, Michael. 'Twould be improper, and in so many ways.”

“Perhaps, but not forever. You deserve some happiness of your own.” She stared at him, and just barely shook her head. “Well, there’s still time, and I noticed how you two reacted. You cannot tell me he means nothing to you, and you mean nothing to him. Those signs can neither be faked nor ignored, nor go unnoticed. You’ll be putting yourselves through unnecessary trouble, and I believe those involved have discussed it. Well, except for you and the girls, perhaps.”

“I can hear better than that, Uncle Mike. I’ve got sharp ears, too,” Verdigris said with a nasty grin, then sobered. “Look, Luna and I know the score. We’re just going to take everything a day at a time, and Honey and Grass are willing to try. You can ask Celestia; I’m sure she knows both sides.”

Luna nodded. “Thou knowest how we are, Michael. We do not wish to create strife, and we are still unsure of ourselves. But we thank thee.” She hugged him gently. “Must thou go?”

“Yes. Time and tide wait for nopony.”

“Then go. Thou art always welcome,” Luna said before kissing him. “Fare thee well, old friend.” Michael nodded, then faded from sight.

“It still gets me how he does that,” Verdigris said. He looked out the Hall windows uncomfortably. “That … flash was intense, Luna.”

“Aye, ‘twas, and yet, thou and we knew, in our heart-of-hearts. As Michael is wont to say, there is always more beneath the surface.” A rumble of thunder drew her attention to the windows. “Nay, it cannot be. We knew of no rain scheduled this night.”

Verdigris looked outside, then nodded. “Scheduled or not, we’ve got a storm coming in. I’m not crazy enough to go home in that.” He looked at her tentatively, as though debating with himself. “Well, you’d see it eventually.”

“Prithee, speak.”

“It’s easier to show you. Come with me, please.” Luna gave him a curious glance, then followed as he walked to the doors after retrieving his helmet. When they opened, he said, “Come along, you three. You may as well know.” Blaze was on his heels as Hammer and Anvil looked at Luna, who nodded. They followed him to his rooms, and wondered what he was doing when he opened the balcony doors and stepped out. He suddenly grew, and his coat shifted to all black, with the white traces, along which flecks of light flowed. His mane and tail floated, stars seeming to swim therein. He walked out and spread his wings as his horn glowed. He stood there, still as a statue as the storm raced in. It seemed to pause, then intensified.

Luna gasped, and the Guards looked at him in surprise. “What dost thou?”

Verdigris remained silent for a moment, then his horn ceased glowing. The storm weakened, and moved on, drenching Canterlot. “It’s something I noticed over the past couple years,” he said as he walked back inside. He shrank, and his coat resumed its normal color and his mane and tail resumed their usual behavior. “It only happens during storms. The regular kind, not ocean-spawned, and the ones that sweep to the sea at night. It never happens in daylight,” he finished as he shook some water from his mane.

“How? This cannot be our doing, and yet, we feel our touch,” Luna said wonderingly.

“Not all your doing.” Verdigris looked at the Guards. “You okay there, Blaze?”

The Unicorn closed his mouth and looked outside. “Did you do that, Boss?”

“No, I had a little help, and a meaningful glance sparked it, I think.” Luna’s eyes widened, but she didn’t react otherwise. Hammer and Anvil looked at each other significantly, but said nothing. “It’s nothing serious. I’m just growing into my potential.” He shrugged. “That’s what I’m going with until a better idea comes along.”

Luna approached and touched her horn to his. Art thou all right? ‘Twould be frightening, to others, she said wordlessly.

I’m not sure. It’s another step along the way, I think, but I don’t know what it means, if it means anything.

Luna nodded after stepping back. “Wilt thou inform Celestia? Surely, thou ought.”

Verdigris smiled and said, “Of course I will. And stop calling me Shirley.”

Blaze’s mouth dropped open, and he began to laugh. After a futile attempt, Hammer and Anvil stopped fighting and joined in. Luna face-hoofed, then added her laughter. “Ah, thine impudence is wonderful.”

“I have my moments,” he replied before a yawn overtook him. “Oh! I should get to sleep, and let you get back to your duties. I’ve got a trip to make, and some thinking to do.”

Luna nodded. “Aye, ‘tis best.” She walked up to Verdigris and hugged him. “Sleep well, nephew.” She nodded to the Guards, who preceded her out.

“Good night, Aunt Luna.” He stayed where he was until they left, and sighed. “Well, that’s that, I guess.” He removed and packed his armor, then walked into his bedroom after dowsing the lights. He stood at a window for a few minutes, watching the storm, then turned off the lights and climbed into bed. He laid there for a while, then closed his eyes. Let’s hope there are no more surprises.

(((())))

Verdigris woke the following morning, and listened to the birds singing. It was, from what he could tell, just before dawn. He stretched, then got up and walked out onto the balcony. The moon was beginning to set, and the eastern sky was lightening. He stood there, watching as the moon sank below the horizon, just as the first rays of sunlight broke. Hmm, did somepony wake me up to see this? he wondered.

That could be, Luna said. Good morrow. He could feel her smile.

Good morning, he replied. Is there something happening I need to know about?

There is indeed. Celly is conducting a Graduation inspection, and wishes thou to join her.

What on Equis for?

You’ll see, Celestia said. Good morning, you two.

Good morning. No hints at all?

No, but I guarantee you’ll like it, and you need to see it anyway, Celestia replied. Yours will be about the same.

Ah. All right. Will I see you both at breakfast? I think I should make an appearance, so I don’t freak out the nobles. Well, not too much, he said with a smile.

Nay, Luna answered. ‘Tis not yet time.

Please, Luna. You can’t stay isolated.

No, you can’t, Verdigris agreed. How can you stop the rumors if you don’t show?

Luna sighed. Aye, thou art both right. We will be there, but we have misgivings.

I’ll be there, and I’d be honored if you’d let me escort you, Verdigris said. Both of you. That should make a statement or two, and what are they going to say? Would they dare?

He felt Celestia’s smile. Yes, I think that would work.

Luna smiled. Aye, ‘twould be good, methinks. We would be honored, Verdigris. Gramercy. She broke contact, and he could feel her still smiling.

Thank you, god-son. She only needs some encouragement. Please wear your armor, to do this right.

I will. See you about five minutes before-hoof, then. He felt Celestia’s smile, then contact faded. “Oh, colt. This should be festive.”

(((())))

Verdigris reached the top of the stairs with Blaze in tow; the Unicorn wondered what was going on, until Verdigris told him, and he’d said, “They won’t like it, boss. Her first Royal Breakfast, and this?”

Verdigris had replied, “If I don’t stand by her, I don’t deserve to ask her to stand by me. Either of them.” Blaze couldn’t argue with that.

As they reached the Royal Quarters, both sets of Guards turned to look at them. “What’s going on?” Tango asked.

“We’re all attending Breakfast together. Luna’s stayed away too long,” Verdigris replied.

“Aye, that’s true,” Anvil replied as Hammer nodded. “It hasn’t been good, watching her stay out of sight.”

Both sets of doors opened, and the Princesses stepped out. “Good morning,” Celestia said. “How is everypony feeling?”

“Ready, Highness,” Hammer replied.

“Same here, Highness” Blackwing added.

“Much better,” Verdigris said. “Ready when you are, Highnesses.”

“Verdigris.”

“We’re not exactly in private, god-mother.”

Celestia looked at him, then nodded. “Yes, and we do have an image to maintain.” She turned to her sister. “Luna?”

“We will make the effort, ‘Tia. ‘Tis not meet to do otherwise.” She smiled at Verdigris. “Please, lead on.” He bowed, and preceded them down the stairs. When they reached the Hall level, Luna murmured, “We thank thee for not letting us languish, ‘Tia. Thou art right, we canst skulk in the shadows no longer. We must take our place.”

Celestia nuzzled her without missing a step. “I should be thanking you, Luna. I know how difficult this is for you.” She looked at Verdigris as he preceded them. “We’re family. You can always count on us.”

Luna nodded. “Yet, we are not certain. What of Verdigris?”

“Worry when the time comes. We have plenty, and to spare.”

(((())))

The nobles waited for Princess Celestia impatiently. It seemed to them she’d slacked off since Luna had returned. A few ponies had their heads together, whispering. They wondered if Luna was going to be a factor, and if they could take advantage of that. None mentioned Verdigris by common agreement, but had said he was the wild card, and if he supported Luna, their as-yet undefined plans could take an unexpected turn.

They got their first shock when the doors rang from a sharp blow, and then opened quickly, instead of with their usual languid slowness. The first indication of trouble was Verdigris striding through in his armor, followed by – His own Guard? several ponies wondered. More than a few remembered what he’d said to Sterling a few years ago, and they felt the first twinge of nervousness, which changed to unease when the Royal and Night Guards followed, escorting both Princesses. Some murmuring started, but it stopped cold when Verdigris looked at them sharply. “A respectful silence for their Highnesses, if you don’t mind,” he said with disdain. They looked at Celestia, who merely proceeded with her usual aplomb. Luna seemed to wear a very slight smile, but they couldn’t be sure.

None of the ponies seemed to know what to do, except for Fancy Pants and Fleur, who smiled. They could see the amused glimmer in the Princesses’ eyes, and understood what was happening. They were letting Verdigris have some “fun”. They watched the other nobles – Blueblood in particular – stare uncomprehendingly. This was something they’d never experienced and it was amusing.

Verdigris continued playing the majordomo to the hilt, even to stamping when he halted and bowed as the Princesses and their Guards passed him, startling the nobles. Too bad Twilight’s not here to see this, he thought. Her reaction would be priceless.

Celestia and Luna took their places, and Celestia said, “Thank you, Verdigris. You may take your place.”

“You’re welcome, Highness, and thank you.” He took his place and removed his helmet, causing some nobles to gasp when the enchantment broke. They hadn’t known who he was, thinking he was a Patrol Unicorn who’d been given a place too high for his status. “Oh, surprise, everypony,” he replied with a hint of a smile as the Princesses took their places.

“Good morning, Lieutenant,” Shining Armor said from his place further down. “You’ve been informed of the day’s schedule, I take it.”

“I have, sir. Any hints, or do I find out the hard way?”

“The hard way, but I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised,” the Captain replied.

“Then that’s that.” Verdigris looked at the menu, ignoring a few unpleasant glances and stares.

Finally, Polished Silver said, “Why are we being subjected to this, your Highness? Not only that jumped-up Coastie, but her,” she said poisonously. “She does not belong here.”

Celestia was about to reply when Luna growled, “No forgiveness, is it? Thou, who know nought but the stories told for centuries by ponies who witnessed not what happened, dare to judge us? Thou knowest nought, and care even less, to assuage what guilt thou hast imagined there must be. Who art thou, who hast no knowledge of that time? E’en Verdigris, who had suffered at our hooves, had the courage to face and forgive us, while thou canst not face us as thou dispense thy vitriol.”

She stood as though to leave, but Verdigris stood and said, “Luna, that was uncalled-for.” She stopped and looked at him in betrayal. “Please sit down. I’ll handle this.” Luna gave him a questioning glance, then returned to her seat. “Thank you.”

He turned to Silver, his eyes glowing. “You have a lot of nerve,” he growled, managing to sound more menacing than the Princess. “What do you know about Nightmare Moon? A bunch of old mare’s tales, that’s what. You – all of you – were here in Canterlot, safe and sound, while Celestia was checkmated, and Twilight and her new-found friends faced and defeated the Nightmare.” He glared at them and they looked away or cringed under his gaze. “Do you know what it’s like to stand up to something you have no hope to defeat? Do you? I do, and that was the point. I knew I’d get bucked to the curb, and I did it anyway, knowing every second I delayed her was time the Element Bearers had to complete their mission. But, even as she was beating me to a pulp, I could see she wasn’t beyond hope and redemption. Something made her stop, and it wasn’t just wanting me alive to torment Celestia.” He glanced at Luna, who just stared at him in amazement. “So, what the buck gives you the supposed right to judge Luna? You have no idea what it’s like to fall into the darkness, and that’s now it should be. Trust me, it’s not fun.”

“What are you talking about?” Blueblood spluttered.

“If you have the chance, go to Stalliongrad and ask about Stormhawk, and what he did. That was me, after my father and cousin were killed, and the rest of my family nearly killed. At that time, I didn’t care. I just wanted to punish the ponies responsible, and hang the consequences. You have no idea about inviting your dark side to take over and what it can do, even if it was influenced by outside forces.” He saw Luna flinch from the corner of his eye. “The Nightmare worked on me for three years before that, and I was ready to join her, at one point. The only reason I didn’t was I’m a lot tougher and more resolute than she thought. I recovered from that, even as Luna was cleansed of that monster. But I don’t hear you saying anything about me, and I have to wonder about that. Maybe I don’t rate as high? That’s not for you to say, either.” He walked over to glare at Polished Silver across the table. “You can say what you want about me, but you keep shut about Luna,” he hissed, startling them. “You don’t know what it’s like, bottling everything up until it consumes you. I do. Even now, I harbor a deep resentment against the ponies in Oceanside for treating me like a freak, when I didn’t have anything to do with it. I’m sure the ponies of long ago were afraid of Luna for the same reason: We’re too different. If being different is a crime, then make the most of it. We didn’t ask to be made the way we are, and you have no right to judge us for it. You. Do. Not. Understand. Worse, you won’t understand. I should hold you in contempt, but I can’t do more than pity you for your lack of understanding and compassion. But then, frightened foals don’t think, do they?”

“That doesn’t give you the right to berate us, here in the palace,” Silver muttered petulantly.

“So we’ll take it outside, and go from there, you lazy, worthless cowards. You’ve had it easy since the Royal Sisters have ruled Equestria. I doubt you’d be able to make it if they weren’t here to save you soft weaklings from what goes on outside our borders.” He smiled nastily. “But then, according to a poet, ignorance truly is bliss.”

“Princess Celestia?” Fancy Pants asked.

“It’s all true,” the Day Princess replied. “Verdigris faced the Nightmare, just as he said. Twilight and her friends rescued my sister from that thing. All without your knowledge, permission or help,” she added with just the barest hint of scorn. “You have no reason to look down on ordinary ponies, because they have the courage and fortitude to do what you can’t, or won’t.”

They sat there, stunned. Nopony could remember her being this way. After a while, a few got up and left, barely looking at Celestia as they bowed and all-but-fled, their tails tucked between their legs. Polished Silver fled in tears. The only ones that seemed unaffected were the Guards, who thanked the practice they had at remaining stoic. Verdigris, after he fell silent, looked at them dispassionately, his face a mask that gave away nothing.

“If we are so discomfiting, we will withdraw,” Luna said quietly. “We did not wish to be the cause of such, and will not again.”

“No, you won’t,” Celestia replied, placing a hoof on her sister’s. “If anypony here has a problem, they’re not required to attend, and they know it.” The almost-command could only be missed by the totally clueless. Even Blueblood kept his seat and silence.

“Would it kill you to at least try?” Verdigris asked softly.

“No, it would not, monsieur,” Fleur said as she stood and bowed. “Please stay, Princess Luna. Not everypony is so cold and unfeeling.” While she didn’t move her gaze from the Night Princess’ face, everypony knew she meant them. Many looked at their plates, their faces red with embarrassment and humiliation. A few actually wondered who the better ponies really were.

Fancy Pants stood and said, “Please.”

Shining Armor stood and added, “It’s my duty to obey, but that’s not as important as the fact that my sister told me you’re a good pony at heart, your Highness. Please stay.”

Luna looked at them, and she sighed. “We will stay.”

There was a brief silence, and then the servants came in, taking orders. Verdigris didn’t return to his seat immediately, but walked to Luna’s side. “Are you sure?” he asked. Luna met his gaze and nodded. “Thank you. It’s not easy being brave. Trust me. I know.”

“Nay, we must thank thee. Thou dost so well,” she replied softly. He nodded and returned to his place.

Breakfast continued, though it was subdued. Everypony wondered what was next, but let it pass. They knew something significant had happened, but weren’t sure about its effect. All they knew was it wasn’t over.

(((())))

After breakfast, Verdigris followed Celestia out to the parade ground, wondering what Shining’s pleasant surprise would turn out to be. He couldn’t think of a reason he needed to be there. He had to agree that he needed to see it; he’d probably go through something like it once the first year was over. Surestrike had told him it would be all he needed, as he had the Patrol to thank for the knowledge. All he needed were the basics.

“Lieutenant, I’d like you to precede us,” Shining said. “Give them a once-over, and tell me what you see.”

“Aye, sir.” That sounds way too easy, he thought.

Celestia smiled and said, “If you want to join Luna’s Guards, you need to do this. We all take pride in our appearance.”

“No pressure.” Verdigris followed as the Princess and Captain walked out, then took his place as they began the inspection. It could take a while, he thought, as there were over fifty Guards in this class. As they made their way among the ranked ponies, Verdigris began to see what Shining meant. Some had a few items slightly out of place, while others hadn’t quite polished everything correctly. Verdigris murmured his findings, and the Captain nodded, instructing his orderly to take the information down. It was a good thing the enchantment hid the inevitable blush of embarrassment or flush of anger.

When they reached the last rank, Verdigris noticed two ponies who looked familiar: A tall, husky Earth pony and a Unicorn who had a mischievous gleam in his eyes. He looked past the enchantment and recognized them. His friends Marl and Blackrock stood there proudly, and their kit was perfect.

He looked sideways at Shining. “I see what you did here, sir,” he said quietly. “It is all right if I talk to these two? They’re one-hundred percent, by the way.”

Shining nodded. “Affirmative, but don’t take too long. Pass-in-review in five minutes.”

Verdigris nodded, then said, “You two, fall out and follow me.” Both ponies stepped back, turned and trotted in his wake, almost arrogantly falling into step with him, or so it seemed. There was a brief murmur from the audience, but it was lost as they arrived in the garden. Verdigris stopped, turned and said, “Good to see you guys again.” He removed his helmet, letting them see him. “I thought you’d already graduated a couple years ago.”

Both Guards took a moment to shake his hoof. “We had two years of remedial courses to make up for what the school didn’t teach,” Marl replied. “Talk about an ‘oops’ moment.”

Verdigris resisted the urge to face-hoof. “I hope somepony mentioned that. I sure don’t remember Surestrike saying anything. Of course, I was kinda busy.”

Blackrock shrugged. “Maybe that’s why you’re here, besides the Princesses’ surprise.” He nodded upward, and Verdigris turned to see Luna on a balcony, leaning against the rail with a pert smile. “Makes sense.”

“I guess you heard a few things about me.”

“Not much, other than you got your flank kicked hard going up against the Nightmare,” Marl replied. “What were you thinking, Verdigris?”

The Alicorn glanced at the sundial. “I don’t have time right now. We can talk later, okay?” They nodded. “All right. Let’s get back, and congratulations.” He replaced his helmet and glanced up at Luna. Thank you.

Thou art most welcome. Good day, she replied before going inside.

Verdigris led the pair back to their place, and stood at the base of the review stand as the short company was marched past. He saluted as they passed, catching his friends’ eye and winking when they reached his position. They didn’t react, but their eyes glinted with thanks.

When the event was over, Verdigris followed Celestia and Shining back into the palace. “Thank you, god-mother,” he said when they reached the lounge. “It was good to see those two again.”

“It must have hurt for them to leave so soon after you returned,” she replied. “So I arranged the necessary delays for you to be here.”

“I was wondering why Horse wanted to see me so many times,” he said. “Well played.”

“So, I assume you’ll be here next year,” Captain Armor said. “Looking forward to it?”

“Aye, sir. And I’ll inform Oceanside’s school board about the Academy requirements, so we don’t have another, as Marl put it, ‘oops’ moment.” He scowled. “They’re supposed to know better.”

“Do you think it was more of Breakwater and Snapdragon’s work?” Celestia asked.

“It wouldn’t surprise me. They made snide comments about the Patrol should be good enough for a Coast pony in my hearing every chance they could when I mentioned what Surestrike told me.” He shook his head sadly. “It’s almost exactly what we talked about, god-mother. They don’t want anypony to leave Oceanside – or they didn’t – and that doesn’t make any sense. Why don’t they want their foals to do better than they did? I thought everypony did.”

“I can’t answer that,” Celestia replied after a moment of thought. “I thought you would know; you’ve lived there all your life. Oh, yes, they avoided you, and you avoided them.” She sighed. “They really don’t want the outside intruding, do they?”

“Maybe, but it’s going to end. Surestrike, Masthead and Freeboard said a lot of things were going to change.” He paused in thought. “Is there any reason for me to stay? I should get back. I’ll need to train my replacement, and I need to transfer title of the Grange. Plus, I’ll need to have Sea Foam take my place in the Guild, so that needs to be done. And I’ll have to store my stuff until I move to Ponyville.”

“Ponyville?” Shining asked. “What’s wrong with Canterlot?”

“It’s too big. I told a few ponies I’ll never get used to a large city, and I’m serious. For some reason, Canterlot is just overwhelming. Visits are all right, but I couldn’t live here, sir. I’ll be okay at the Academy, but somehow I feel stifled in the city proper. I guess I’m just too used to the great wide-open.”

Shining nodded thoughtfully. “That makes sense, and you’re not the only one. A few Pegasai couldn’t, so they have detachment duty in Cloudsdale and Las Pegasus. It’s not like we don’t have enough ponies to cover everything.” Shining offered his hoof. “Welcome to the Guard. I figured we can get that out of the way early.”

Verdigris shook hooves, and nodded. “I’ll just get everything packed so I can catch the first train.” He saluted before removing his helmet. “It’s good to finally meet you, Shining. Twi’s luckier than she’ll ever know.”

“Same here, Verdigris. I can see why she speaks so highly of you. Good luck, and we’ll see you then.” He nodded to Celestia and returned to the barracks.

“I haven’t told you how proud I am of you, lately,” the Day Princess said as they walked to the Residence wing. “You’ve been one surprise after another, most of them pleasant, god-son.” She fell silent for a few minutes, then asked, “Have you, Honey and Grass made arrangements?”

“Not yet. I’ll probably build a house in Ponyville, and commute as needed for duty. I understand more than a few ponies do.” Celestia nodded. “Then I’ll just be one of the gang. Flock. Whatever.”

“Have you picked a location?”

“Not yet. I don’t want to be too close, but not so far away it’s a major event just going shopping.”

Celestia chuckled gently. “If I might make a suggestion?”

“Of course.”

“I believe there’s plenty of room across from Sweet Apple Acres. You won’t be too far from your friends, but you won’t have ponies in your lap constantly. Well, other than – ”

“Please don’t say it,” Verdigris interrupted.

“All right, but I’ll still think it.”

“Thank you, god-mother Trollestia.”

She chuckled again at his rueful tone. “It could be worse. I could be as humorless as a Stalliongrad banker.” Verdigris face-hoofed. “All right. I’m just saying you could do worse than me and Luna for blood relatives.”

“Uh, just how exactly does that work?” He looked into her eyes so she could see what he didn’t want to say aloud.

“Ah, yes, that's what’s making you uncomfortable, isn’t it?” Celestia walked along, silently composing her answer, then shook her head. “It’s better to say it straight out. She’s related, but not as closely as you might have worried. You see, while Luna and I have the same parents, we’re literally as different as night and day. Magic, of course, and a much ‘deeper’ gene pool. Though my blood is in your veins, your parents’ heritage matters the most. It won’t be a worry until you finally cross the last Threshold, and become like us permanently, instead of temporarily, as an act of will.”

“That’s not exactly what I meant,” Verdigris said as they stopped on the second floor landing.

“I know. That was to dismiss those misgivings. Truthfully, it’s never been an issue for us. Have we ever been involved with our descendants? Yes, but they never knew it. I know the tangential relation bothers you, but it’s not a factor. As for the age difference, you’re only as old or young as you feel, Verdigris. Luna’s still my younger sister, but the difference is less significant over time. Time means little to us, really. Are we immortal? Yes. We can’t die, though we can be killed. Temporarily. It might take a year or two, but we always return, though not as Michael does, through reincarnation. We reappear as we were, and continue where we left off. It hasn’t happened to either of us, but it has in the distant past, at least so I was told.” She looked at him, and gently closed his mouth with a hoof. “I know it’s a lot to take in, but you have every right to know what I’ve gotten you into.” She closed her eyes, composing herself. “You see, I meant what I said when I saved you, Verdigris. You didn’t deserve to die, either as yourself or Sunblur. Yes, I was making up for my mistake, but it was still you – the innocent one – I was doing it for. A life of endless possibilities, tragically cut short because I didn’t think it through.”

Verdigris stared at her for a minute, then nodded. “I get it now. I wasn’t entirely sure. Thank you for telling me.” He reached up with his left hoof and gently grasped her nose, making her start. “Yes, I remember it, now. All of it, including Sunblur. I forgave you that time, I forgave you as a foal and I still forgive you. Even though it’s been rough, I wouldn’t trade any of it. I’ve met the most wonderful ponies, and had opportunities I don’t think I would have if I’d been born ‘normal’.” He blinked back tears. “It’s been lonely, but all in all I don’t mind. Honestly. It’s okay. You can forgive yourself.”

She looked at him gratefully, then hugged him as tears fell from her eyes. She sat down and leaned against him, crying with happiness. Thank you, dear one, she said silently, unable to speak. This moment has made it all worthwhile. I can look forward again. I can’t repay that.

Verdigris wrapped her in his wings as Blackwing, Tango and Blaze arrived from below. “You don’t have to. You saved my life. You cared enough to risk it, both times.” The Guards looked on, occasionally glancing at each other questioningly, but remained silent.

Celestia reluctantly pulled away. “Are you leaving tomorrow?”

“I can wait another day, but I have my duties and other obligations. I don’t really have a schedule, considering,” he replied with a slight grin. “I can honestly say I’m here because the Princesses wanted me here. I just don’t have to tell them all the gory details.”

Celestia goggled in surprise, then laughed. “Hee-hee! Which ones?” she asked before dissolving into laughter again. This time, Verdigris joined in. He couldn’t help it, and it always felt good to laugh.

The Guard trio looked at each other. “Definitely on the mend,” Blaze said quietly.

“Yep, both of them,” Tango agreed. "About time."

(((())))

Verdigris spent that evening with his friends, who’d finished celebrating early. After watching some of their classmates dare each other into crazier and crazier stunts, they decided to get lost before somepony thought about including them. And so, after talking with Shining, they visited the Alicorn in his rooms in the palace.

“Wow, this is yours?” Marl asked, looking around in awe.

“Heh, you should see the Princesses’ rooms. This is nothing,” Verdigris replied. “Well, I haven’t seen Celestia’s, and I’m not sure I want to. I don’t want to know if my god-mother is a closet Photo Finish fan,” he finished with a shudder. “I can’t imagine being in the spotlight all the time; it’d drive me crazy.”

“But you’re famous, too,” Marl countered. “Your products are just about everywhere in Equestria, and they’re even in the Griffin Kingdoms.”

“When did you start reading the financial page?”

“When I worked for Freeboard one summer. Once I heard Honey Bunch was yours, I knew working for Full Sail would be a bad idea,” the Unicorn replied. “Even before we learned about the Rus.”

Verdigris scowled at Blackrock. “Did ya have to tell him?”

“Well, yeah. Didn’t want the drama,” the Earth pony replied.

They moved to the balcony, looking out over the city, which was a little more boisterous from the graduation’s festivities. Verdigris wondered if anypony was going to try to climb up to the Princesses’ suites this year. “So, what’s the latest?”

“Well, the word is Blackwing’s retiring, and the Captain’s looking for a replacement. Tango’s already there, so it’s just to move somepony up,” Blackrock answered.

“We heard Surestrike’s looking to have a small detachment stationed in Oceanside. He didn’t say why, though,” Marl added.

“What are they saying about me?” Verdigris asked after holding an internal debate.

“The only ponies who are wondering are the noobs,” Marl answered. “The rest of the Guard at least knows about you, and they take their cues from Blaze and Tango. Steel Heart’s the only one who doesn’t like you. Why?”

“Because I support Luna. Don’t get me wrong, Celestia’s wonderful, and she’s done a lot for me, but I understand Luna. Face it, guys, we both freak out everypony else, and they avoid us like the feather flu. This may be Canterlot, but it’s an awful lot like Oceanside, especially the ponies. Different isn’t really seen as good in either place.”

“Aw, dude, that’s not right,” Blackrock complained.

“It’s okay. I’m used to it, and they’re more polite about it here. At least I don’t have Bluestreak trying to kick my flank every time he lays eyes on me.”

“Yeah, speaking of that,” ‘Rock said as he glanced east toward Manehattan. “We’ve heard he’s into some stuff. Don’t know what it is, but we got the impression it’s not good, or legal.”

Verdigris made a face and shook his head. “That doesn’t surprise me. Has to be top pony, and doesn’t care how he gets it.”

“Yeah, and he really hates you for getting him out of Oceanside. I think he wanted a show-down, and you got him packed off to Manehattan,” ‘Rock added with a satisfied smile.

“I’m kinda surprised you did that,” Marl added.

“Like I told Breakwater, I just wanted him out of my mane. Getting him out of town saved us both a lot of hassle, and probably his life, guys. You saw what the fights were like, and I was always going to be the pony who walked away. Well, except for that storm and the Nightmare, I was.” Their startled expressions made him add, “Oh, yeah, it’s true. I’d tell you the whole story, but I only have tomorrow, and I don’t think you’re going to be free for a while. Advanced training, right?”

‘Rock nodded. “Yeah, that’s true.” He smiled. “Still, good to see you and catch up.” He looked up at Verdigris. “If anypony’d told me I’d be looking up at you, I’d have told them they were bucking crazy. So, ya finished growing?”

“I hope so. A new set of armor every year would be rough.” Verdigris looked south in the gathering darkness. “Yeah, I’m at my full growth. It’s kinda weird, looking her almost straight in the eye, after looking up at her for so long. It’s even weirder looking down on Luna. Somehow that doesn’t seem right, y’know?”

“Well, they are Princesses,” Marl pointed out unnecessarily.

There was a long silence, and Marl said, “So, Night Guard?” Verdigris nodded. “Dude, that’s the roughest duty of all, going by the rumors. Luna supposedly did a lot of the hardest jobs, and so did her Guards.”

“Yeah, I’ve met them, and I’ve read what few records there are. I got the story straight from them, so I know what I’m getting into.”

“Honey and Grass might not like you being away at night,” ‘Rock said.

“We’ve talked about it, and we’ll work it out,” Verdigris replied. He looked out into the sky as the moon rose. “We’re all okay with it.”

“Wait, are you saying – no, you can’t be serious. You and her?” Marl asked, incredulously.

Verdigris nodded. “Eventually,” he said flatly.

“Oh, dude, you can’t be serious.”

“I’m going to out-live everypony I know, once I reach a certain point, guys. I’m not okay with it, but there’s nothing I can do about it. The infusion changed me forever.” A knock drew their attention to the door, and Verdigris closed his eyes. “Okay behave, you two. Come in, god-mother.”

The door opened, and Celestia walked in. “Oh, am I intruding?”

“No, not really. If you didn’t know already, this is Blackrock and Marl.” They bowed, and he added, “Knock it off. We’re away from the flag.”

“Thank you.” Celestia looked at the young stallions and nodded. “You’ll do. I’m glad you got to talk, and I’d like you to keep what Verdigris told you to yourselves. It’s not exactly secret, but he wants as normal a life as he can have.” She smiled. “He’s still the same pony you knew in Oceanside, but he’s gotten better.”

“How’d you know?” Blackrock asked.

Verdigris looked at the moon, then said, “Luna told her. They can see and hear everything under the sun or moon, and, well, sisters tend to talk to each other.” He gave them a twisted grin. “You two know about that one.”

“Oh, crap,” Blackrock said as he face-hoofed.

“No, it’s all right,” Celestia replied. “Any secrets you want to keep are safe. While we rule Equestria and maintain its well-being, we also take the well-being of all our ponies into consideration. We might needle you, but we won’t use it against you.” She looked at Marl, who obviously wanted to ask a question, but didn’t know how to say what he was thinking. “Go ahead. I won’t be offended. Neither will Verdigris, if it’s what I think it is.”

“Uh, how’s Verdigris gonna handle it, your Highness? Just thinking about … forever is hard to deal with.”

“As I told him, the way Luna and I do. A day at a time, Marl.” She walked out to join them on the balcony and looked into the sky. “You really are fortunate, being mortal. Admittedly, you never seem to have enough time, but you don’t have to deal with the daunting idea of forever. You’ll never have to face losing friends and loved ones over and over again while you go on. Immortality isn’t a blessing, it’s a heavy responsibility, along with our power. I’m sure you know what boredom can make ordinary ponies do. Imagine what could happen if Luna and I didn’t have any releases, and we decided to play really nasty tricks, instead of harmless pranks.”

They thought about it and shuddered. “I don’t know. I really can’t imagine it,” Marl said.

“You’ll do fine. I need to speak with Verdigris privately.” They nodded and left, but not before tapping forelegs. “Are you ready for the next stage?”

“I don’t know. I’m just glad I’ve got some time to adjust,” he replied. “Seeing those two again brought it home.”

“I know. I’d say I’m sorry, but you‘d just tell me it’s all right, even when it’s not.” She smiled briefly. “I appreciate the effort, but you can tell me how you really feel, god-son. I know how hard adjusting is, and so does Luna.”

“I’ll be okay. Not fine, not great, but I’ll be okay. Sometimes that’s plenty,” Verdigris replied. “I’m just wondering how this is going to affect my friendships with Twilight and the others. I doubt they’d be upset about it, but I’m sure me going on while they get older isn’t going to help.”

“You don’t give them enough credit. They’re exceptional ponies. They have to be, for the Elements to have chosen them.” She glanced at him. “And what makes you think they should know?”

“You know better than that, god-mother. Maybe the others can’t, but I’m sure Twilight can figure it out, if she hasn’t already. I’ll bet a thousand bits Ominus knows. He’d have to. There’s no way they’d keep it from the rest, and you know it,” Verdigris replied after watching the auroras shift for a few minutes. He glanced at her side-long. “What is this, a test?”

“No. If you hadn’t said that, I’d have had to tell you, and while you might be too advanced in some ways, I’m glad I didn’t have to. I was dreading hoofing you more bad news, on top of everything else. Can you blame me?”

He looked at her for a moment, then shook his head. “No I don’t. It’s too easy to keep quiet, and a lot of times it doesn’t help anypony. Sooner or later they’d ask, and I’d have to tell them, and that would be worse. Heck, I’d have Applejack hating me because I couldn’t trust her, and that’s before she became Honesty. Well, maybe not, but you know what I mean. They’d all feel that way, and they’d be right. They accepted me, no questions, and I don’t trust them?”

Celestia nodded. “I had to be sure, Verdigris. Not everypony this or similar has happened to took it as well as you have. I’d hate to think being isolated is the way to go. It’s more than unfair.”

“I know. So does Luna, I'm sure.”

Celestia nodded, and resumed looking up at the sky. “Are you still planning to leave first thing?” Verdigris nodded. “Then I’ll say goodbye now. As much as I love having you near me, I know you have your own life to lead.” She chuckled. “Hopefully, we won’t meet again after you’ve been hurt.” She turned and nuzzled him. “Good night, Verdigris. Take care.”

Verdigris gave her a wing hug. “I will, Celestia. Pleasant dreams.” Celestia nodded and walked out smiling. He looked out over Canterlot. “Well, at least I know what’s coming. Maybe.” He turned and checked his bags and their contents – more gifts, but from Luna this time – and walked into his bedroom, which was dark. “What the – I know the lights were on when I came in.” He flicked the switch to find his bed occupied by Honey and Grass. Both mares smiled at him.

“Come here, so we can say goodbye properly,” Grass said. Honey didn’t say anything, but grinned evilly.

“Hmm, I wondered why Celestia stayed so long.” Verdigris got into bed after shutting the lights off, and they snuggled against him. “Okay, I’m all yours.”

“Just what I wanted to hear,” Honey said.

(((())))

Verdigris woke, and wondered why. He checked the time, then remembered. He wanted to get out of Canterlot before the city woke up, so he wouldn’t have to endure endless goodbyes. He looked at Honey and Grass, who had somehow ended up on the same side of the bed. For all I know, they did that while I was asleep, so I wouldn’t disturb them, he thought. He got up carefully and made his way to the bathroom silently, something he’d learned to do coming back from their late-night talks. After closing the door, he showered, thinking about what he’d tell Birchbark and Driftwood. They’re probably not going to like me going, but they’ve known for three years. They’re probably the only ones. Buck it, I can’t live for somepony else, he thought as he shut off the water and began drying his mane.

He looked into the mirror, and was pleased to see his eyes were back to normal. Not just so I could see ‘Rock and Marl, but for this to happen. Thank you, god-mother. As he finished brushing his teeth, he listened for any sign his marefriends were awake. There was no need to sneak out, but he knew they’d rather not get into long goodbyes, either. It wasn’t anything they’d planned, it just seemed the three of them had the same feelings about that.

He finished and walked out, closing the bedroom door quietly. Honey opened an eye, and murmured, “Goodbye, Verdigris. For now. Come back to us soon.”

(((())))

Verdigris checked to see that he hadn’t left anything, and walked out onto the balcony, preparing to fly to the train station. He hadn’t much sky time, and he was going to get some, even if it was just a few minutes. As he stretched his wings, Luna said, “Good morrow.” He looked up to see her hovering above him. “We see thou art preparing to leave.”

He nodded. “I don’t really like goodbyes, especially after dad and Sky were killed. I always worry if I’ll ever see them again.”

Luna nodded as she landed beside him. “Aye, we understand, though for other reasons. We wish to thank thee for thine understanding and patience, Verdigris. We shalt miss thee, but would not trade these days for anything.” She stepped forward and nuzzled him. “Remember us. All of us, not only myself. Thou hast much to return for, and return to. Adieu.”

“No, it’s not goodbye, it’s sometime again.” Her eyes widened and he chuckled. “Yeah, that’s one of Uncle Mike’s.” He kissed her cheek. “I’ll be back. That’s a promise.” Luna nodded, and he launched away, gliding over the city silently for a moment, then shifted over to “cruising”.

Luna watched the greenish-white trace wistfully. “Be well, and whole, Verdigris. We wish it more than we can say. Sometime again.”

Author's Note:

A/N: While Luna might speak “forsoothly”, I seriously doubt she thinks that way.

Acknowledgments: “When ignorance is bliss, ‘tis perilous to be wise.” Thomas Gray, from “On a Distant Prospect of Eton College”. Hammer and Anvil are from Night Guards by Raugos, and appear with the author’s permission; references to past events are from the same story. With A Little Help From My Friends from Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band © 1967 Apple Records

Comments

[i_am_the_jam]

Wasn't it too soon to restart the Night Court?

[Verdigris]

1945960 Maybe.
I'm going with the assumption that the Court had started, but no ponies were aware of it, or were willing to go. Provided it was announced.
Most mentions of the Court are in fics with no timeframe given, so it's not exactly canon.
"That's my story, and I'm sticking to it."

[White Wolf]

Celestia was imprisoned.

Don't you When "Luna was imprisoned?"

[Verdigris]

1949121 No, I mean Celestia. She was imprisoned briefly in the story Night Guards when Nightmare took over, not long before Celestia banished her. I've used that as the back-drop here, and it's a damned good tale.
"Verdigris says check it out."

[White Wolf]

1949679

Huh. I don't think i ever read Night Guards.

[Verdigris]

1953990 You should. It's one hell of a ride, and a good look at Luna's transformation and fall.

[White Wolf]

1954028

Link please?

[Verdigris]

1954194 Here you go: Night Guards
You won't be disappointed.

[White Wolf]

1954714

I remember that now. Yea it was good.

[Verdigris]

2024047 It could be, but some of them aren't always what I think they are.
Uhm, where is it? I don't exactly have these memorized.

EDIT: (After a look at Chapter 2) Oh, yeah, it definitely was. Couldn't resist.

[Ender Roarke]

Hoo-eee, that dialogue. This chapter was an enjoyable read as always but boy does Verdi have a tendency to rail at snobby ponies with a monologue. Sometimes even with only minor provocation.