A Broken Warrior

by Stonehearth

A Dance with Fate

The ride back to Ponyville was quiet. But Skystrike enjoyed the silence after the day he had. Stardust laid asleep in her seat as Skystrike looked out the window at the passing night sky. Sure enough, after what he said to Celestia, and what he did to Magnus, there was definitely going to be an investigation of sorts. A part of him was worried about the bad press he’d get, but any media who knew their stuff would have also seen the tattoo Magnus had. At that point, the headlines were dependent on the biases of the publisher.

Did Skystrike humiliate the Royal Guard, or did Skystrike beat a criminal?

Either way, his reputation would take a hit, due to the sheer brutality he showed. And his relationship was definitely in the gutter now with the two celestial sisters. Admittedly, he didn't care much for the guard’s opinion on him. He didn't interact with them much anyway.

It was early, early morning by the time the two arrived in Ponyville. Nopony was on the platform, the train didn't even whistle at their arrival. Skystrike tried to shake Stardust awake, but she was in a deep sleep. He had half the mind to shake harder, but his anger at the day prior shouldn't be taken out on her. Skystrike slung the guardmare over his back and picked up both their bags before stepping off the train.

It wasn’t a long walk home, but the silent night and the empty streets made it seem longer. All that he heard was the blowing wind, making the trees creak and the leaves rustle. Soon enough. The dark path to his house was playing tricks on him. He was alone with his thoughts, angry, sad… disappointed in himself.

Skystrike shook the thought out of his mind as he unlocked his door and pushed it open. With a sigh, he laid Stardust down on the couch. He decided to leave unpacking for the morning. He went to lay down in his bed before falling asleep, hoping to get at least five hours of sleep.

But morning came too quickly. He felt like he blinked when the sun started rising. He groaned as he rolled out of bed before starting his routine. Workout, eat, shower, and then decide what he wanted to do for the day. Stardust seemed to sleep through most of it though, only rubbing her eyes awake after he came out of the shower. “Good morning, Stardust.”

Stardust quickly stood up and saluted. “Good morning, Pri-” Skystike shot her a look. “Er, Skystrike.”

“No need to be so formal, Stardust.” Skystrike sighed. “Breakfast is in the kitchen.”

Stardust felt her stomach rumble before going to get the food, eggs, toast, and hay bacon. “Thank you!” She quickly scarfed it down.

Skystrike smiled slightly at the sight. “No problem…” He reached for one of his books, then sat down on a chair and began reading. “By the way, do not tell this town who I really am.” She nodded. “Good. I’ll go over the rules and stuff once you’re done eating… Actually, you’ve slept in the barracks. Similar to that. I won’t wake you up as early as I get up, but we’ll be training regularly. It’ll be nice to have a sparring partner.”

Stardust nearly spit out her food. “You want me to spar with you!?”

“Yeah. Gets me back in the groove of swordplay, and gets you better at it…” Skystrike then thought. “...Actually, what do you use? Most guards stick with the spear.”

“A… rapier. Why?”

“If you’re going to be here with me, and following me when I eventually get back to doing my missions, you’re going to need better gear. I’ll start off with a rapier for you.” Skystrike flipped a page in his book. “For now, I’d recommend going around town and introducing yourself. I have some things to do in the Everfree Forest.”

Stardust looked at him. “The Everfree Forest? The Everfree forest!? What do you have to do in a place so dangerous!?”

“Nothing much. Patrolling mostly, keeping track of the timberwolf territories. I may be a while.” Skystrike closed his book. “You’ll probably meet some of my friends, and they’ll ask where I am. Honestly, I just don't want to be around anypony right now…” Then he sighed. “I will be fine.”

“...Are… are you sure?” Stardust asked.

To be honest, he wasn’t sure. He just needed to get his mind off things. “Fairly positive, yes.” Skystrike began putting on his armor. He secured both of his swords to his sides before opening the door. “Oh, right, one more thing. There’s a… interesting mare in town. You’ll know her when you see her. No matter what you do, you can’t escape her. Just go with the flow.”

Stardust gave him a confused look as he closed the door. The grass quickly turned to damp leaves as he entered the forest. He remembered before he left that he said he’d make Pinkie a new flying machine. After roughly twenty minutes of walking he got to the lab that he found those months ago. Over the months he spent in Ponyville mostly alone, he came to this place every few days, putting in the hours and fixing the place up. The human remains that once sat in the corner were now gone, thrown into the river to become one with the planet, and the moss and vines growing within were peeled off. All that was left were the roots and broken walls.

With luck, he could fix those with the machinery inside. He took off his helmet and put Echo onto the terminal. The azure blue eyes of the helmet lit up with binary as the lights of the room flickered on. “Core functions within this laboratory have not worsened. What do you wish to begin with?”

“First, let’s return this place to its prime… or as close as we can get it.” Skystrike looked up to the ceiling, several mechanical arms hung down from the ceiling. At the ends of their joints sat different tools, ranging from simple clamps to buzz saws and blow torches. Looking at it a bit closer, the large table they seemed to hang above was more akin to a 3D printer. “Fix up the foundry so we can better build things to fix this place.”

“Affirmative. Estimating time until completion…” Echo stated. After a few moments of silence, Echo responded. “Damage to the foundry segment is minimal. Materials within this laboratory will allow for quick repairs. ETC, thirty minutes.”

“Alright…” Skystrike thought it was too simple. “And to repair everything else?”

“Structural scans recommend a complete replacement. Materials are insufficient.”

“And there it is…” Skystrike sighed. “Come on. Let's fix what we can for now. We’ll be here for a couple hours.

---

He was indeed there for a couple hours. It took some effort, but the foundry was in full swing. Now he just needed the materials. The machines within could build him almost anything, even fixing some designs in his blueprints to be most optimal. But that took out some of the creativity in the art that is creation. Thankfully, there was enough to fix Pinkie’s sky bike.

Skystrike hauled all the parts he needed back to his home. Stardust wasn’t there, most likely still out or at a Pinkie Party, so he had the house to himself. He put the several dozen parts in his backyard before following his instructions on putting the pieces back together. First, he assembled the frame, an L-shape, similar to the one Pinkie Pie had before. Next, he put the gears on. Compared to the last one, which only had one set of gears, this one has three, making starting a bit harder, but keeping the rhythmic pedaling easier. Then he made two propellers. Pinkie’s only had one that kept her afloat, allowing her to steer by leaning forwards, backwards, and to either side. It was part of the reason she fell in the first place, as there was no secondary propeller that helped stabilize the contraption. In response, he put one propeller on top, and a second to the now longer tail of her machine, similar to a helicopter. He also added two stabilizers for extra safety. Finally, just to make landing easier, he put on two landing
Skids.

He put on the bell chains, making sure to put them on properly through the gear system. Skystrike put a hoof on one of the pedals that were too small for him and pushed down. Everything worked properly, the propellers spun in the proper direction, and the gearshift worked great. The stallion was proud of his work. The weight was about fifty percent more, so he added wheels to the end to drag it, as he doubted the average pony could lift it like he could.

With a grunt, he lifted it onto his back and began walking to town. It was roughly two in the afternoon… And now Skystrike was hungry. He rolled his shoulder as he kept walking, ignoring the strange looks he was getting from the townsfolk.

“Hey!” He heard a voice call from above him. Skystrike looked up to see Rainbow Dash looking down at him from a cloud she was laying on. “That you, Nebula? Didn’t know you came back so soon!”

“Yeah. Got back this morning.” Skystrike nodded. “Spend the rest of it building this thing for Pinkie, getting my mind off things.”

Rainbow flew down and began walking next to him. “Damn, you built all that in a few hours? That’s kinda cool, dude.” She looked at the sky bike on his back. “Looks different from when I last saw it.”

“Made some upgrades. Won’t spin out as easily now.” Skystrike noticed her wince as she thought back on Gilda. “Oh, right… fresh wound… Sorry.”

“It’s… fine.” Rainbow Dash sighed. “Like you said, things will get better… Is it wrong for me to say I wish I saw you punch her?”

Skystrike looked at her. “Depends. Do you crave the violence served, or the karma served?”

“The karma… mostly” She admitted.

“Then no… mostly.” Skystrike chuckled as he copied the way she said that.

“So, how was Canterlot? I don’t think I’ve ever been.”

Skystrike paused for a minute. “It was… an experience. Some good, some bad… Memories resurfaced that I wanted to keep buried. But I’ll be fine. I always am.”

“...You know, I can keep a secret, Nebula.” Rainbow looked up at him. “Won't make fun of you or anything if you just want to get it off your chest.”

Skystrike looked at her as they stopped in front of Sugarcube Corner. “Well, I might take you up on that offer one of these days. Thanks, Rainbow.”

Rainbow Dash nodded as she pushed open the door to the bakery. She was instantly tackled into the ground behind her from Pinkie. “Hey! Came for Stardust’s party?”

The winded pegasus tried to catch her breath as she rolled on the floor. “Celestia… damn it, Pinkie.”

The cotton candy mare then turned to Skystrike. “Oh my gosh, you are here! Stardust said you’d be here.” Then her eyes sparkled as she saw the contraption on his back. She gasped loudly. “Is that…!?”

“Yeah, gave it a few upgrades so it’ll last a bit longer.” Skystrike put it down with a thump. “Hopefully you enjoy it.” Pinkie quickly hopped on it and gave the candy contraption a test run, pedaling to get it a few feet off the ground. “The steering system has changed completely. You can lean and steer by changing the gear for the tail rotor.”

Pinkie did a gleeful spin in her new toy before landing it. She quickly tackled Skystrike into a hug, who was now winded alongside Rainbow Dash. “Thank you, sososososo much! The Pinkie-copter mark 2 is great!”

Skystrike wheezed. “Glad you… enjoy it.”

“No, I really really really appreciate it! This is one of the nicest things anypony has done for me!” She kept hugging him. “I’m always the one giving gifts!”

“It’s really no problem, Pinkie.” Skystrike got up and patted her on the back. “But… Pinkie-copter? Really?”

“It’s a bad name, sure, but it’s a lot better when you see it paired with the Pinkie-cycle and Pinkie-wagon.”

“...You know what, fair.” Skystrike admitted. “But I’ll leave you two to enjoy Stardust’s party.”

“She’s a guard, right?” Rainbow asked. “How’d you land a guard as a marefriend?” She teased.

“Celestia decided I needed to be watched. I’d rather not talk about it.” Skystrike sighed. “Canterlot wasn’t bad, per say, but I want to be alone. Tell everypony we’ll catch up tomorrow.” Skystrike said before turning around to go back home.

---

A few days passed as Stardust got used to Ponyville’s routine. After getting back home and asking ‘what the buck is Pinkie Pie?’ they actually quickly became friends. Same with Fluttershy over their apparent shared love for gardening. But that was about all the good news he was due that day. Walking through the market earlier, he noticed how the ponies looked at him, as well as how those he bought produce from weren’t interested in the normal small talk.

He realized soon after Spike walked up to him as he passed by the Golden Oak Library. “Nebula!” Spike ran out the door with a newspaper in his claws.

“Hey, Spike. What are you reading? Something big happen?” Skystrike bent down so the baby dragon didn't have to look as far up.

“You bet! The papers came out this morning. The whole town must know about your duel with Magnus now!” Skystrike inwardly winced at Spike’s words. “It was so cool! You beat the guy without getting hit once! And you took down a bad pony at the same time.”

Well, at least that paper included that Magnus was a criminal. “The words are… appreciated Spike, but cool isn’t the right word to describe it. I’m sure you heard the words 'violence isn't the answer’, but sometimes it is. And there isn't anything cool about it.”

“I’m confused…” Spike looked at him. “Then… why did you do it?”

Skystrike looked down at the little dragon. “...You got some time to go on a walk? Or ride, since you can climb on my back.”

“Yeah!” Spike let Skystrike jump down before climbing on his back.

Skystrike began walking as he spoke. “Well, Spike, do you believe in karma?”

“What’s that?”

“Well, if you do good things, something good will happen to you. But…” Skystrike paused. “If you do bad things, something bad will happen to you.”

“Well… I think it sounds nice to believe in.” Spike had to admit.

“Alright. Now, a question for you. If somepony is bad, and somepony they did a bad thing to gives the first pony bad karma back. What do you think it’s called? And is that karma justified?”

Spike thought on it for a little while as they approached Sugarcube Corner. As he though, Skystrike ordered two smoothies from Mr. Cake, who was watching the store as his wife baked. Spike grabbed his drink as he finally thought of an answer. “I don't know what it’s called, but… I think it depends, right? Like, if the second pony does a bad thing to the first pony, did the first pony really deserve it? And even if they did, doesnt… doesnt that make that second pony have bad karma?”

“See Spike, you’re a smart kid. That’s a nearly perfect answer.” Skystrike took a sip of his smoothie. “Whether it’s justified or not depends on who you ask, because the second pony believes themself justified, and of course they’re biased to themselves, just like how the first pony is biased to themselves. Only the outside observers can decide. And that’s why we have laws.”

Spike looked into his drink. “I… I think I get it. So, when you beat Magnus like that, you thought you were right?” Skystrike sighed and nodded. “Then… what did he do to make you do that?”

He couldn’t really say to the kid. It’d be better for an example. “...Spike, let's go back a couple months to when you moved in here… If Nightmare Moon hurt Twilight, you’d be mad, right?”

Spike nodded. “Of course!”

“Ok. And you’d want to make Twilight feel better?”

“Yeah!”

“And what if, the only way you knew how to make her feel better was fight Nightmare Moon? And you only had the power to do it years later? Would you let go of the pain, or make her pay?”

Spike sat silent at that. “I… I don’t know. But… isn’t Nightmare Moon still bad?”

“Maybe from our perspective. From hers, she thinks she’s righteous.” Skystrike took a sip from his drink again. “That’s the thing, Spike, in situations like these, there aren’t any right answers. Only those who judge our actions. It’s up to us to decide who’s words we should think on. Using the same scenario, would you hurt Nightmare Moon even if Twilight didn’t want you to?”

“I… dont know.” Spike had to admit.

“And you only truly know in the moment.” Skystrike sighed. “And that’s why I did it. Because I thought it was the right thing to do.”

“I… I think I understand.” Spike slurped down his drink and licked the mild of his lips. “But wait… you gave me two questions.” He looked at the stallion. “What’s the answer? What’s it called?”

Skystrike finished his own drink and bit down on the cherry in his mouth. “...Revenge, Spike… It’s called revenge. And while you may think you’re doing it for others… in the end, it’s selfish. You’re doing it for your own satisfaction.”

“Then… you did it for revenge?” Spike asked.

“...Yes.” He confirmed. “Even if Magnus was a bad stallion, even if another thinks I am justified, I still did it because in the end, I have to admit that I wanted to.”

“...What did he do to you?”

Skystrike sighed. “Spike, you’re a good kid. And while I mostly believe that if you’re old enough to ask, you’re old enough to know the answer, there are some things that I can’t tell you.”

“Oh come on! I can keep a secret!”

“I’m sure you can, but that isn’t the issue. It’s because these are your most formative years, if your dragon brain ages like a pony, that is. What I mean to say is, that if I’m not careful with my words, and how my actions come across with you, you’ll take some things to heart, using me as a justification, and I don’t want to risk being a bad influence on you.” Skkystrike moved his empty glass to the side. “I’m sure you’ve done things before and you said to ponies: ‘Well Twilight did it!’” Skystrike mimicked his voice.

“...I don't sound like that, do I?” Spike asked.

He couldn’t help but crack a smile. “It's fine if you do. It suits you.” Skystrike got up and crouched down. “Now, let’s get you back home. This talk has gone on long enough, and neither of us told Twilight where you’re going.”

Spike jumped on his back. “...Hey, I know after what you said that this… probably isn't a good time, but I have a question.”

“Shoot.”

“Can you… train me to fight like you?” Skystrike was about to instantly say no, but decided to hear him out. “When Nightmare Moon came, and Twilight left me home… I wasn’t sure I was going to see her again. I dont… I dont want to feel that helpless again. I want to help you and Twilight and your friends!”

Skystrike thought on it. He felt the pain in his voice, and the determination. He hummed. “Well, Spike, these things are for the adults to deal with. So you still can’t really help with things like Nightmare Moon. I also wouldn’t want you to go play hero like I did as colt…” Spike looked down in disappointment. “But…” His eyes lit back up. “If you’re just in need of guidance and you promise not to misuse what I teach you, then I’ll train you.”

Spike hugged the back of Skystrike’s head. “Thank you! Thank you so much! When do I begin?”

“I’ll tell you when. I have some things I need to make for you.” Skystrike stopped in front of the library and let Spike down.

As soon as he did and Spike pushed the door open, Twilight met them on the other side. “Oh, Spike, I was wondering where you went.”

“Me and Nebula got milkshakes!”

“Hey Twilight.” Skystrike waved. “It’s been a bit. How’s it going?”

“It’s… going.” Twilight answered. Skystrike noticed the way she said that. “Do you mind… stepping inside?”

Skystrike felt like this was more than a friendly meetup. In fact, it sounded more like a trap. But despite that, he nodded and went in. Spike walked up to his bed to lie down as Skystrike looked around. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Rarity all sat in a circle, each with newspapers in their hooves. Skystrike stared at them.

“Skystrike.” Twilight put a hoof on his shoulder. “I know this is a bit sudden, but… I think this is an important conversation to have.”

He looked at her. He couldn't believe this. “...Are you all serious?” They all nodded. “You know what, I’ll humor you all for a bit. How much do you know?”

“Well… Princess Celestia filled in most of the blanks of what the paper didn’t”

“Interesting, and what did the paper say?”

Rainbow Dash answered this time. “...That you antagonize Magnus to the point of a duel, then beat him half to death! Honestly, dude, I thought Gilda was a one time thing!”

Skystrike stared at her. “...I’m going to ignore that last statement for now, Rainbow Dash. Now, did the paper include the fact Magnus was a criminal hiding within the Royal Guard?”

“Does it matter?” Applejack asked. “What does that gotta do with anything you did? Did you know he was who he was when you turned him into the underside of a sailboat?”

“Yes. And that’s specifically why I did it.” Skystrike tried to mask his annoyance. “So, what else did Celestia say in her letter?”

“Why are you asking so many questions!? Twilight shot one of her own.

“To know enough information to responsibly and properly respond to this shithole of an intervention I was dragged into.” Skystrike turned to her. “In fact, I don’t think I need to know what she said. I can already assume what she did. Stop me when I’m wrong.” Skystrike began counting on his finger-like feathers. “She told you I was ‘irritable’, she told you she ‘worried for me’. She told you that I could be a ‘danger to myself’, she told you to ‘show me the magic of friendship.’ News flash, girls, staging an intervention when you haven't even heard why I did it isn’t exactly what friends do.”

“You don’t have to be so combative about this! We’re trying to help you out here!”

“Well, if you all and Celestia wanted to help me out, you’d all wait until I felt I could come to you about this naturally, and Celestia would’ve told you the actual important details.” Skystrike sighed, then took off his helmet, letting see his angry expression. “I’ll do both. Almost three years ago, that criminal organization that Magnus is part of tried to kill me, and all of my friends. The day before the duel, he tried to poison me. Personally, I think the beating I gave him was more than justified.”

“He did what!? Pinkie’s jaw dropped.

“Oh man, that's so weird!” Skystrike turned to Twilight. “It’s that weird, book horse? How your mentor leaves out the most important details.” Skystrike scoffed. “You all barely know me well enough to judge me on these things, admittedly in no small part to how I interact with you all. I will admit to that at least. But I can also admit to this: I know what I am… I’m not the pony that many of you knew from childhood. I’m the monster that this town, these ponies made me out to be.”

And with that, Skystrike turned to leave, putting on his helmet and ignoring their words for him to stay. He slammed the door on his way out and began walking home. Ponies made wide walks around him as he stared straight forward.

Those eyes… he hated them.

Skystrike sighed as he pushed open his door, seeing Stardust on the couch. “Hey, Stardust.” He said with a tired sigh. “How’s Ponyville treating you so far?”

“I like this place actually.” She admitted. “No crime at all here. Makes my job a lot easier…” Then she tapped her hooves together. “Though I do hear some strange things coming from the forest at times.”

“Oh, probably the Manticores and Timber wolves. They fight from time to time. You’ll see those the most at the edge of the forest.” Skystrike waved a hoof. “By the way, I’m going to start on your sword tomorrow. What do you want for dinner?”

“Oh, you’re cooking?” She rolled over to look at him .”You know, your friends already thought I was your marefriend. Keep this up and ponies are gonna start talking.”

Skystrike stared at her. “Bruh.”

Stardust laughed at his reaction. “But if you are cooking, what do you have?”

“Planned on having sandwiches… You like garlic? I use garlic bread as the loafs.”

“...That sounds amazing.”

---

Skystrike stood at his forge, hammering away at the steel in front of him, tempering the metal that would soon be the blade of Stardust’s sword. He wiped some sweat off his brow as he looked at what he did so far. The shape was right, he just needed to sharpen it and make the handle. He could work on it tomorrow morning.

What he had to work on next was Spike’s weapon. He had several ideas, though one stuck. A scythe. A farmer’s weapon, used mostly for an honest day’s work, but can be used to defend the home if needed. It would be fitting for Spike, as Skystrike didn’t want to teach him to fight for the purpose of aggression.

But he didn't feel too comfortable giving Spike a real blade. So, the blade of the scythe would be collapsable, and allowed to use as a staff. Sure, he could knock someone over the head with it, but rather that than an impaling. Downside was actually building the separate parts for the blade. By the blueprints, the blade would be housed within the pole of the weapon, locked in place by the safety.

You know, thinking about it now, Skystrike felt like the baby dragon would use it akin to a baseball bat.

He chuckled at the thought as he began hammering away. Five pieces. One blade, one staff, two ornaments for each end, and the mechanism that moved the blade in and out of place. The blade was easy in comparison to the staff. The ornaments were cylindrical, and could be screwed on to both ends of the staff. The mechanism was the hardest part, mostly due to the many smaller parts. It took a few hours, and a lot of tinkering on his work bench, but it was finished. Now, all he needed to do was put it together and wrap it in a nice grip.

Skystrike wiped off some more sweat off his body with a towel before his attention was taken away by somepony clearing their throat. He turned around and saw a few of his friends, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight stood behind him. Skystrike looked at them and threw his towel over his back. “Oh hey. Sorry, I wasn’t paying attention. How long have you all been there?”

“Long enough to see you work up a good sweat, darling.” Rarity eyed his figure. “And I must admit, it’s rather impressive.”

Skystrike looked at her, then snorted. “Get a coltfriend, damn.” Skystrike said as he got a small laugh out of them. He turned back to his work to continue putting his creations together. “So, what’s up? Something must have happened to make you all come together.”

“Uh… yeah…” Rainbow Dash rubbed the back of her head.

Twilight took a step forward. “We… we wanted to apologize for what happened yesterday. You were right. We acted too hastily, acting on information we didn't know.”

“And… you’re not a monster, Skystrike.” Rarity said. “You didn't deserve how we all treated you.”

“Eh, all good. Bought it on myself.” Skystrike had to admit as he began polishing the pieces of metal. “I keep a distance from ponies, and that stops them from knowing who I am. Is what it is. I’ve lived with it for this long already.”

“So… are we still friends?” Twilight asked.

“As long as we all take this as a learning experience, yes. We are still friends.” He nodded and looked down the staff, making sure it was aligned correctly. “But just to be clear, I’m still not going to tell you all about my past just yet, nor do I regret what I did.”

“Yeah… Princess Celestia sent me another letter when I said it didn’t go well and I asked about the finer details…” Twilight admitted. “Do you… at least know where your friends are? From your time as a mercenary, I mean.”

“I have a general idea.” Skystrike began putting together the scythe. “Most, if not all of them went back to their home countries. I… went nomadic for a bit, making sure they wouldn't know where I was for their own safety. We had our reasons for coming together, most didn’t share why we left our homes, but we bonded over the pain of loss. Once we split up, we all had dreams we wanted to follow. All I can do is hope they all got to achieve that goal…” Skystrike did one more quick look at the scythe, nodding at the completion. “But enough about sore subjects. I’m hungry.” Skystrike picked up his lunch box and opened it, looking at the sandwich inside. He was about to dig in before he heard a low growl coming from the woods.

The mares all looked in the direction of the growling. “Uh… Skystrike?” Rarity turned to look at him. “...What was that?”

Skystrike inhaled deeply, and slowly closed his lunchbox. “Timberwolves.” He sighed. “Coming to try and take back their territory.” Skystrike stood up on his hind legs and stretched. The only armor he had on was covering his legs, as the heat of the forge made the armor unbearable. He cracked his hooves and put on his helmet. “Just stand back. It’ll be over quick.”

“Are you… going to be ok?” Fluttershy asked. “The Timberwolves normally don't come this far from their part of the woods.”

Skystrike nodded as he began walking towards the forest. “Yeah, happens every once in a while. I made the mistake of letting them off easy last time…” He stopped in front of the edge of the forest.

Three silhouettes made their presence known by the glowing green eyes piercing through the dark forest. Each stepped out, one by one, showing their bodies of twig, vine, leaves, and logs. They were as large as him. Though he may be outnumbered, he wasn’t outclassed. After all, they weren't made of living wood. They would break easily.

The problem was that they were still wolves, and thus, very smart compared to the average beast. Skystrike rolled a shoulder as they slowly approached, circling him. A part of him wished he could talk to them, like Fluttershy, but then he thought about if they even count as animals. He perished the thought as one lunged at him from behind, taking advantage of his blindspot. Skystrike side stepped and grabbed the first one’s tail as it landed, twisting his body to slam it into the ground.

The last two tried to jump him at the same time, but Skystrike jumped off the first and into the air before flapping his wings and kicking in both of the heads of the two attackers. A normal beast would be knocked out from that, but Timberwolves didn't exactly have a brain. Instead, their wooden skulls shattered into several pieces.

Skystrike stood back and waited as the three wolves laid motionless for a few moments. Slowly, the broken logs floated into the air and back together in the resemblance of a wolf. But Skystrike didn’t feel like waiting any longer. Like he implied, he was going to send a message. The stallion flew back and reached into his satchel, pulling out a small cylinder and throwing it at the still reforming wolves. They ignited near instantly, the pieces of wood rattling against each other as they kept trying to reform.

Skystrike landed on the ground as the fire slowly began to go out. The few pieces of wood that weren’t ash came together into one shuffling wolf before glaring back at him and going back to the forest. Skystrike turned to his friends. “Alright, what were we talking about?”

“That was awesome, Skystrike!” Rainbow Dash flew up to him. “What did you throw at them?”

“Oh, nothing that interesting. I put cotton and a firecracker in a case, then put that in another case filled with oil. Worked like a charm.” Skystrike looked at the ash pile left.

“I was worried there for a bit.” Applejack tipped up her hat. “But you were about to eat your lunch.”

“Oh, right…” Skystrike looked to where his lunchbox once stood, seeing Pinkie with crumbs on her face… And a suspiciously sandwich shaped object in her neck. “Pinkie…”

“Mmmhmm?”

“Did you eat my fucking sandwich?”

She swallowed and licked her lips. “MMHMM! And it was delicious!”

Fluttershy, Twilight, and Rainbow Dash’s eyes all went wide at the statement. Applejack and Rarity were confused at their reactions, but quickly had some understanding of it when Skystrike walked up to Pinkie and took off his helmet, seeing his eyes full of apathy. “Pinkie Pie, be a dear and look at your friends… Specifically Fluttershy, Twilight, and Rainbow. What do you see?”

“Uh…” Pinkie stammered. “...Worry?”

“Good, good…” Skystrike nodded. Then he turned to the mares. “Now, would any of you three want to explain why you’re all making those faces?”

Twilight cleared her throat. “Well… I’ll just say it simply. You don’t steal Skystrike’s food.”

Fluttershy nodded. “Everypony gets one.” She stated with her eyes closed.

“Do not do it again.” Rainbow said from experience.

“Thank you.” Skystrike smiled at them before turning back to the pink mare with his hollow eyes. “Everypony gets one.” He pointed a hoof into her chest. “You dont fuck with my food, Pinkie.” She could feel the annoyance in his voice. “In fact, Rainbow, tell her what happened the second time.”

“I… I’d rather not.”

“That’s right, you’d rather not.” Skystrike nodded. “See that, Pinkie, that was almost a decade ago and she still isn't over it. Now… what did we learn today?”

“...To… to not take your food?”

“That’s right.” Skystrike nodded before standing up and getting out of her face. He put back on his helmet. “Now I gotta find something else to eat.”

“I mean… I could get you something in town?” Pinkie offered.

---

Skystrike kicked his hooves as he bit into his burrito bought for him from a local stall. “Mmm, this is pretty good! They even squeezed a lime in here.” Skystrike licked his lips before biting down on it again.

“...Is it seriously that easy to calm you down?” Pinkie asked, gobsmacked.

“Maaaaaaybe…” Skystrike finished his first burrito and opened his second. “I am a simple stallion… also a sleepy one. I think a food coma is starting.” He then looked around to the crowd he was standing in with his friends. “What are we here for again?”

“Come one, come all!” Skystrike’s ears went back from the sudden loud noise, the voice sounding like it was coming from a megaphone. “Come and witness the amazing magic of the grrrreat and powerful… Trixie!” The wagon Skystrike was looking at popped open into a stage. You know… so far, he was kinda intrigued. In a puff of smoke, a unicorn mare with an azure coat and cornflower blue mane and very pale blue stripes stood on stage. Skystrike found the wizard outfit a bit silly, a lilac hat and cape with light blue and yellow stars and spots, but it suited her, with Trixie being a performer and all. Hopefully it’s a good show. From the entrance alone, she seemed to be an illusionist.

“Watch in awe, as the great and powerful Trixie does the most spectacular piece of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes!” She stood on her hind hooves as fireworks shot out from behind her stage.

Skystrike had to admit, even if magic was common in this word, he was a sucker for magic tricks. Simple tricks ranged from cards to coins and misdirections for the normal human. Ponies and their magic always had a neat twist to it.

But others weren’t so fond of the show that hasn't even started yet. “My my my, such boasting!” Rarity raised a brow.

“Oh come on…” Spike groaned. “No pony is as magical as Twili-” Then he caught himself and cleared his throat. He looked around. “Oh- uh, hey Rarity, I uh… must dash!” Spike said before running away and jumping on Skystrike’s back. Damn, he was awkward.

Twilight took Spike’s place next to Rarity. “There’s… nothing wrong with being talented, is there?”

“Nothing at all… Except when somepony goes around showing it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons.” Applejack said before glaring at Trixie.”

“Yo, can we at least watch the show?” Skystrike said as he saw Trixie conjure a spell, waving her hooves in front of her before plucking a bouquet of roses out of thin air. He wished he could do that.

“Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does not make one better than the rest of us.” Rarity huffed, ignoring Skystrike… or just not hearing him.

“Especially when you got me around being better than the rest of us!” Rainbow said proudly, only to get a glare from Applejack.

“Well, if there was something wrong with being talented, we wouldn’t have cutie marks.” Skystrike bit into his second burrito. “Also, Rainbow Dash… just don't.” Applejack snickered.

“Well well well, it seems we have some neigh-sayers in the audience!” Trixie looked down at the group of friends.

‘Heh… neigh-sayers… and she neighed.” Skystrike smiled to himself as he thought. “It’s because we’re horses.”

“Who is so ignorant to challenge the magical ability of the great and powerful Trixie!?” She boasted more. “Do they not know that they’re in the presence of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria!”

Rarity blew a raspberry. “Just who does she think she is?” Rarity scoffed.

“Yeah! Since we all know that Twilight here is-” Spike was bumped by the back of Skystrike’s head.

Twilight responded by picking up the baby dragon in her magic and leading him out of the crowd for a private conversation. Rainbow, however, flew in Trixie’s face. “So, ‘great and powerful Trixie’, what makes you think you’re so awesome anyway?”

Trixie giggled. “Why, only the great and powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded Ursa Major!” More fireworks came as they exploded, morphing into a picture of a bear with a star on its forehead. The ponies in the crowd gasped at the statement, as well as the light show. “When all hope was lost, the ponies of Hoofington had nopony to turn to, but the great and powerful Trixie stepped in, and with her awesome magic, vanquished the Ursa Major and sent it back to its cave! Deep within the Everfree forest!”

Skystrike couldn’t help but chuckle at that statement. He knew for sure that wasn’t true, just because he’d have heard about it in his line of work. A lone unicorn taking down an Ursa Major? And she’s working in show business no less. Sure, he knew she was just building up hype to entice the crowd, but that was just an insane thing to try to do so.

But he didn’t know how loud he was, the chuckle gaining the attention of the performer. “What’s so funny, stallion?”

“Sorry, didn’t mean to interrupt…” Skystrike kept chuckling. “But that was just an insane statement to make.”

“Yeah!” Spike was back and pointed a claw at Trixie. “I don’t believe it! Who saw it!? And besides Twi-” His words quickly became mumbling as Twilight, with her magic, turned his lips into a zipper to zip his mouth shut. Skystrike had to admit it was kinda funny.

Trixie gave a haughty laugh. “It’s true, my enthusiastic little admirer. Trixie is most certainly the best in Ponyville!” Skystrike heard the crickets through the crowd. Now it was awkward, she just called out an entire town… But he did want to see where it went. “Don't believe the great and powerful Trixie?” She giggled. “Well then, I hereby challenge you, Ponyvillians… Anything you can do… I can do better! Any takers?” She turned her chin up at them all. “Anyone? Hm? Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived?”

Skystrike, personally, was confident enough in himself to not have to prove he was better. But at the same time, that was a really big claim Trixie made. The show quickly went from boasting about her magic to basically insulting their home. Now… who’d fall for the bait?

Better question, would he care enough to see who falls for the bait?

The answer was a resounding yes when Spike pleaded at Twilight’s hooved. “Please! She’s unbearable! You gotta show her, you just gotta!”

Skystrike did a better job at hiding his laugh by eating his burrito. Twilight shook her head. “There’s no way I'm using my magic now Spike, especially since-” Twilight whispered before being cut off.

“How about you?” Trixie pointed to Twilight who stayed silent. “Well? Is there anything you can do the great and powerful Trixie cant?”

“Talk in first person apparently…” Skystrike whispered to Applejack to his left, getting a giggle from her.

But apparently, she was actually pointing at Applejack. “Well, little hayseed?”

“Ok, hayseed is wild.” Skystrike chuckled.

“That’s it! I can’t take no more of this!” Applejack stomped before walking up on stage. Can your magical powers do this?” Applejack tied a rope to the end of her tail and began doing lasso tricks. Honestly, it was pretty impressive, seeing her jump though the rope she twirled. She finished her performance by flicking her tail at a nearby tree, picking an apple from it. It fell into her mouth as the crowd cheered. It would be pretty hard to top that… “Top that, missy!” Applejack confidently crossed her hooves.

“Oh ye of little talent. Watch and be amazed at the magic of Trixie!” She pulled off her hat, showing the flaring of magic from her horn. She made the rope sway back and forth like a snake, hypnotizing Applejack somehow. She then tied her hooves together and put an apple in her mouth… like a pig… Interesting how ponies know how to hogtie. Applejack angrily hopped off stage back towards the group. “And the great and powerful Trrrrixie prevails!” She rolled her r again.

Skystrike quickly untied the mare as she spit the apple out of her mouth as Rainbow Dash decided to get it a shot. “There’s no need to go strutting around and showing off like that!” Skystrike looked at her, then looked to Applejack who shared a look, wondering if they both heard what she just said.

“Oh?” Trixie egged her on.”

“That’s my job” Rainbow put a hoof on her chest as Applejack and Skystrike looked at eachother again. There it was. The rainbow pegasus flew off towards a windmill and flew around it, making it spin at an impressive speed. Following that, she flew into the sky and broke through several clouds before turning around and dive bombing… after hitting a pose with the sun as a backdrop of course. Flying through the holes in the clouds she just made, the water followed behind her as she skidded to a stop, making a rainbow above her. Skystrike had to admit, that was also pretty cool. “They don’t call me Rainbow and Dash for nothing.” She got some cheers from the crowd as well.

Trixie was unamused. “When Trixie is through, only thing they’ll call you is loser!” Skystrike choked on his laughter at that. Trixie shot a magic beam at the pegasus, taking her rainbow above her and making it swirl around. Soon enough, a rainbow tornado formed, carrying a spinning Rainbow Dash with it into the air and dropping her on her head.

Skystrike caught the mare before she could hit the ground. “I…Think I’m gonna be sick…” Rainbow Dash groaned.

Skystrike instantly put her down. Just in case. Trixie wasn’t done yet though. “Seems like anypony with a dash of sense would think before tussling with the great Trixie.” She made a dark cloud appear above Rainbow before lightning struck Rainbow’s hind quarters. The crowd laughed.

Skystrike watched as the scene unfolded. Originally, if he wanted to play devil's advocate, he could defend Trixie by saying that it's for the show… but that thunder cloud was a bit too far in his opinion. Then he looked down at his half eaten burrito… It was no longer hot. Just warm… It made him sad.

So, he decided to try and savor the taste, ignoring some of the words that Rarity said as he saw her try to stay out of the conflict. Something about a ‘unicorn on unicorn tussle’ and ‘conducting herself with beauty and grace’. To be honest, he was more focused on the black beans in his burrito that were just the right amount of mushy.

Then his eyes widened at the words of the blue unicorn. “Ooo, what’s the matter? Afraid you’ll get a hair out of place in that rat's nest you call a mane?”

“SHOT’S FIRED!” Skystrike said instinctively.

“Oh, it. Is ON!” Rarity growled with a look of sheer determination on her face as she walked on stage. “You may think you're tough with your so-called ‘powers’, but there is more to magic than your brutish ways. A unicorn needs more than just muscle….” Rarity used her magic to pull down a curtain, spinning it around herself. “A unicorn needs to have style!” A flash of light blinded them all as Rarity quickly made a dress out of it… somehow. Magic is bullshit. The crowd awed at her blue and yellow dress, decorated with frills and a saddle, which is somehow a fashion statement. She even got a new hairdo. “A unicorn without grace and beauty…”

Trixie casted a spell with her horn with a mischievous smile.

Spike had hope that Trixie would be taken down a peg. “Rarity wont let Trixie get the best of her! She’s beautiful, she’s…” A flash of magic interrupted Spike as he stared in silence. The whole crowd gasped in horror after looking at Rarity. Save for Skystrike, who was making a strained face under his helmet. He’d laugh if he didn’t know how much effort Rarity puts into her mane.

“Quick! I need a mirror! What did she do to my hair!? I know she did something terrible to my hair!” Rarity squealed in panic.

“Nnnnnnnnnothing?” Twilight couldn’t say it.

“It’s fine!” Rainbow answered quickly, pushing that potato to someone else.

“It’s gorgeous!” Applejack didn’t want to touch this with a ten foot pole.

Spike blinked. “It’s gre-”

“SPIKE!” Skystrike made them all jump at his sudden outburst. “Do not say it.” Skystrike finished his burrito before clearing his throat. “Rarity?”

“Nebula, don’t hide it from me! I need to know!” Rarity pleaded.

But Skystrike couldn’t make eye contact. He was staring at the literal rats nest on her head, looking like it was made of moss and twigs. He took out a bag of bits and put it in her hooves. “Go to the spa, get your hair done… I’m going to say it in the nicest, least traumatizing way… It’s… green.”

Rarity looked up at her mane with tears in her eyes. “No… green hair!? Not green hair!” She quickly ran off stage. “It’s such an awful, awful color!”

Golden Harvest, who decided to dye her hair green that day, scoffed at her as she ran away from the eyes of the dozens of ponies. “Well… I’d never!” She walked off. Probably to go wash the dye out, it did not suit her.

“Well come on Twilight, it’s up to you.” Spike said as Trixie whipped her hoof.

“What do you mean? I’m nothing special…” Twilight said to both Spike and the crowd.

“Yes you are! You’re better than her!” Spike growled.

“I’m no better than anypony!”

Trixie laughed. “You think you're better than the great and powerful Trixie? You have more magical talent! Well come on, show Trixie what you've got! Show us all.” She taunted.

Twilight looked around nervously. Skystrike put a hoof on her side. “Twilight, do not give in to her antagonizing. You do not have to do anything.”

“Oh come on!” Spike groaned. “Can you do something then?”

“Spike, none of us have to prove we’re better than anyone. We know what we’re good at. We know what we’re bad at. The ones who do try to prove it are often insecure.”

“Ugh, you again, tin can?” She scoffed at him. “Very well, if you wish to show that Trixie is insecure as you say, then show us.”

Skystrike turned to her. “You already did that for us. When you try to prove yourself better than another you compare yourself to them. Comparisons are normal of course, but a normal pony would not try to prove the comparison is lesser. After all, why would you compare yourself to somepony you deem less than you?” Skystrike let his words sit in the air for a little while. Then he pointed to some ponies behind him. “Applejack grows some good apples. Cabbage Patch grows good cabbage. But neither needs to say the other is bad to sell their produce. While your illusionary magic is intriguing, you don’t need to pull down others to climb the ladder of success.” Skystrike looked at Trixie, who was clearly not paying attention. He sighed. “But my words aren’t getting through to you. So, I’ll humor you.” Her ears perked up. “This is more of a party trick actually.” Skystrike sat down and pointed his hooves at each other, spinning his right hoof clockwise and the other counter-clockwise.”

Trixie held her head high. “The great and powerful Trrrrixie can easily do such a simple trick for foals!” Then she began twirling her hooves… or at least attempting to. It was spotty, stuttering as she tried the first time, then trying to spin one hoof at a time to get the rhythm, but still to no avail. “What the-”

Then a few ponies in the crowd tried the same trick. Collectively, they began edging insanity as Skystrike got nearly every pony to try the trick. A few got it after several long minutes, but most still couldn't do it. Skystrike chuckled at the mass confusion. “Pretty cool, right? You can show ponies cool tricks without shitting on them, Trixie.” Skystrike stood up before putting Spike on his back. Then he put on a mocking, yet clearly joking voice. “Now that I’ve proved that I’m superior to the common citizen, I shall celebrate my betterness with a tall glass of wine with the finest salad I can make… Come hither, Spike, we have ponies to check on.”

Skystrike began walking as Applejack and Rainbow Dash followed him. The former spoke first. “...How do you do that, actually?”

“No idea.” Skystrike admitted. “But let’s talk about neat tricks later, even if both of yours were really cool.” He chuckled. “I’m going to drop Spike off at Twilight’s.”

Spike looked around the dispersing crowd and jumped down. “Actually, I have… things to do.”

Skystrike looked at him. “Spike, do not do anything stupid, ok?” Spike saluted before running off. “...You know, somepony really needs to teach him to keep his mouth shut at times.”

“Uh, is it really ok to let him go like that?” Rainbow asked.

“He probably just wanted to be alone with his thoughts.” Skystrike nodded. “So… where did Pinkie and Fluttershy go?”

“Uh…” Applejack thought about it. “Pinkie said something about baking you pies when Trixie started, and you know Fluttershy, not being a fan of crowds.”

Skystrike nodded. “So… you two gonna go check on Rarity?”

“Yep!” They both nodded.

“Cool. I’m going shopping.”

---

The stallion pushed open the door to his home, Stardust sat on the couch reading one of his books. She looked up at him as he entered. “Good afternoon.” Then she looked back at the book. “I… don’t know how you understand this stuff.”

Skystrike looked at the book and took off his armor. “...Partial differential equations? Have you taken calculus?”

“...Back in highschool… so over a decade ago, sir.” She admitted and closed the book. “Also, I just figured I should warn you, I heard what sounded like kids running by. Is that normal?”

Skystrike shook his head as he began putting his groceries into his refrigerator. “No, not at all. The only thing past my house is Fluttershy’s cottage… and the Everfree forest.” He closed his fridge and thought about it. “...How long ago did you hear it?”

She looked at the clock. “About… twenty minutes?”

Skystrike looked out the window at the oncoming twilight. “...Stay ready. We might have to go save some dumbass kids.” He sighed and took out a pan to begin cooking, keeping an ear out for anything within the forest. “Anything else in town you heard about?”

“Not really…” Stardust admitted. “Though I heard that that showmare, Trippy? Has sidekicks or something now. Some kids named Scissors and Slugs?”

“You’re kinda close with the names…” Skystrike nodded. “So Trixie has sidekicks, who are Snips and Snails…” He was about to crack an egg into his frying pan. “...And you heard the hoof steps of kids going into the forest?”

Stardust blinked as she looked into the ceiling, then realized. “...You don’t think?”

“It is a… possibility that those two kids went into the Everfree to find an Ursa Major to try and prove Trixie’s claim…”

“That she took down an Ursa Major?” Stardust chuckled. “Yeah, that’s a crazy thing to say. If she did, the guard would’ve recruited her by now.” Then she got serious. “But there’s no way those colts would do something like that… right?”

Skystrike kept holding the egg above the pan in thought… He turned off the stove. “I do not want to take any chances.” He put the egg back in its carton, or tried to. It fell out of his hoof as a loud thump shook the building. Next, they heard two screams. From the sound of it, it was from two kids. Finally, they heard a loud roar, making the many birds perched in the trees fly away, screeching.

Skystrike and Stardust instantly dropped what they were doing and ran out the door, not even bothering to lock it. Once outside, their eyes darted towards the road, seeing two colts and Spike running from a large blue bear. The fur of the creature twinkled like stars. “SHIT!” They both said before running after the bear. It pushed over each tree as it walked after the kids. How did it get that far without them noticing? It was already in town!

Skystrike picked up Stardust and carried her on his back to fly after the Ursa. They wouldn't make it on hoof. He saw as Trixie saw the beast coming, jumping out of her wagon and running with Snips and Snails behind her. Sadly for her, in a fit of rage, the towering bear crushed her wagon with a single paw. It backed the three ponies into a deadend.

Skystrike and Stardust were now close enough to actually do something. “Stardust!” Skystrike yelled over the roaring wind. “Get ready! I’m going to throw you at the kids. I got Trixie!”

“Got it!” She nodded as Skystrike flew down toward the ground.

Meanwhile, Trixie, Snips, and Snails all looked up at it, though the first was the only one who was terrified. “Great and powerful Trixie! You’ve gotta vanquish the Ursa!” The smaller, chunky green Snipps said.

“Yeah, Vanquish it so we can watch!” The taller, thinner orange Snails cheered.

“It took a lot of trouble to get that thing here!” Snips smiled before Trixie snapped her head at him.

“What!? You bought that thing here!? Are you out of your little pony minds!?” Trixie’s eyes shrunk in shock.

“But… you’re the great and powerful Trixie!” Snips said, though had a hint of confusion in his voice.

“Yeah, remember? You defeated an Ursa Major!” Snails clarified.

Trixie gulped as the bear roared in her face. “Ok… stand back…!” She wasn’t even sure of herself as she charged her magic. Using some rope, she levitated it over in an attempt to bind the Ursa… but she only had enough rope to tie two digits together. The rope broke as the Ursa split apart its fingers and gave an unamused look.

“Come on, Trixie!” Snips stomped.

“Stop goofing around and Vanquish it!” Snails huffed.

Trixie gulped again before focusing once more. A dark cloud formed above the Ursa, sending down a lightning bolt on its back. A black spot covered a small part of its back as the Ursa roared, though more in a stinging pain, rather than an agonizing one. The cloud was nowhere near big enough. It raised a paw.

With a spin, he grabbed Stardust and threw her at the two colts. The earth pony put her hooves out as she tackled the two out of the way of an oncoming paw. Skystrike was just barely able to grab Trixie and pull her out of the way as the claw came down. He slid to a stop and looked at Trixie below him. Thankfully she seemed unharmed. Then he looked to Stardust and the two kids, who were also no worse for wear.

But that roar in the middle of town seemed to wake up most of the townsfolk, opening their doors to see what was happening before abandoning their homes and running as far away from the Ursa as they could. Twilight was even running… but toward them for some reason. She quickly asked Stardust what was happening, but Skystrike needed to focus on the matter at hoof. “Trixie!” She looked up at him as he put her down. “Get rid of that Ursa! Now!”

“I… cant!”

“What!?” Snips and Snails were back for some reason, shocked at what the unicorn admitted to.

“I cant! I never have! No one can vanquish an Ursa Major! I just made the whole story up to make me look better!” Trixie admitted.

“Made it up!?” The two colts went as the Ursa approached once more. It loomed over them.

Skystrike took the lead. “Stardust, Trixie, Twilight! Try your best to make sure everypony gets a safe distance away!”

“But what about you!?” Twilight asked.

Her question was answered as the beast roared once more, staring down at Trixie and trying to swipe at her. There wasn’t enough time to move her out of the way and dodge. Skystrike surrounded her with his body as he took the full attack, sending the two rolling into somepony’s house. Skystrike coughed some blood out as tried to breathe. He wished he was wearing his armor.

He looked between his wings to see Trixie, who was no longer frozen in fear. “A-are you-”

“Run, damn it!” Skystrike shouted at her as he pushed through the pain. He pulled himself out of the wood and stone rubble to fly towards the Ursa, landing a punch right on its nose and making it reel back in pain. He tried to land on the ground, but stumbled and fell as one of his legs gave in… then the stinging in his wing came. He groaned at the pain. From the feeling, his back left leg was sprained at the very least, and his right wing was dislocated. The pegasus grit his teeth as he roared to pop his wing back into its joint. He needed to ignore the pain.

Skystrike stood back up and flew into the air, above the still reeling Ursa and tried to divekick it in its chest. The Ursa recovered quicker than he thought and swiped at him once more. Thankfully, he dodge by flying right between its claws and landed the kick right on its cheek. With some luck, he could at least stall the starry beast long enough for the majority to evacuate.

The Ursa tried to catch Skystrike as he landed, bringing both paws down on to him. Skystrike knew it was going to hurt, but he had to brace for it, standing on his hind legs and putting up his forehooves. He caught the paws as the force of them pushed him into the dirt below, making a small crater where he stood. Now at least one of his forehooves were definitely broken.

But his other arm was still working. He pushed the paws upward before reeling back his metal hoof and landing a devastating uppercut. The crack of the impact echoed through the buildings as the Ursa keeled over and fell unconscious. Admittedly, Skystrike had no idea how he did that. But then he felt blood going down his side. He felt for it with a hoof before looking at the blood soaked appendage… He was losing a lot of blood.

Skystrike saw the beast begin moving once more and got back in a defensive stance, only to realize it was levitating in a purple magic. He looked around to see Twilight, straining herself as she held the massive creature in her grasp. Once an impressive dozen feet in the air, she began floating the unconscious Ursa back to its cave in the Everfree Forest.

Only then did Skystrike note that the whole town watched what just transpired. They were… cheering for them… for him… This is new. But his consciousness was fading. Skystrike looked around, seeing the minimal damage done to the town. At least he did some good before kicking the bucket. Skystrike fell to his knees before rolling over on his side. His breathing was getting heavier… and he could feel the dirt entering the cuts in his side and wings.

Twilight quickly ran over to the stallion. “Nebula! Are you alright!?”

Skystrike coughed. Blood began dripping through his helmet. “...What type of dumbass question was that?” He tried to laugh, only getting out a pained groan. “Ugh… and… that was and Ursa Minor… thankfully.”

“What!?” Trixie’s jaw dropped. “That was just a baby!?”

“Twilight… give them a rundown.” Skystrike began wheezing. “Consciousness fading… getting… sleepy… cold…”

Twilight got down at his side in worry. “Come on, stay with me! Keep your eyes open!”

Skystrike could barely hear what was being said, nor could he feel the ponies lifting him up. There was some semblance of yelling around him, and some at Trixie from the little he saw. His vision was getting blurry. “Not… her fault.” He was able to get out. One of the figures talking to Trixie turned their head to him. He felt his eyes get heavier. You know… it wasn’t a bad way to go… There were worse ways. But on the chance that this is the end. “...I want you all… to make it count.”

---

It was cold where Skystrike was. As if he was under a wet blanket. It was uncomfortable to say the least. He looked around in the vast void, but the emptiness went on to the horizon. He tried to move, and sure enough, he could walk. And so he did, walking through the seemingly endless expanse. He didn’t feel the wounds he had… in fact, he looked over his body, and he was in perfect condition.

The stallion walked for what felt like hours until something happened. He heard something behind him, calling for him. He turned around and saw what it was. Silhouettes stood there, taking up space in the void with their bright white light. Four were equine in stature, each a different size and shape. Two bipedal ones stood alongside them, one large with wide wings and defined horns, the other, thin with feather-like appendages coming from its head. Two more stood on all fours, but had equine and avian like features, both housing talons, feathers, and a beak. The second seemed to have a lion-like tail from his view. Even when their major features weren’t there, he could tell who each of them were.

They were his friends… Were. He didn’t deserve to call them that anymore. He wanted to say something to them, anything that could make them understand what he did… why he left them. How much the time spent together meant to him. But each word he tried to speak didn’t leave his mouth. No sound came out.

He tried to walk towards his once companions, but as he approached, he realized that each step he took was harder and harder than the last. It felt like he was pushing against a rushing river. Skystrike grit his teeth as he kept moving forward. But then he felt something warm behind him.

The pegasus turned his head to see a blinding light behind him. He felt his hooves begin to slide off the ground and towards the light. Skystrike began flapping his wings to fly against the wind trying to pull him in. He was almost there. He put out a hoof to his friends. They each reached back.

And then they pushed him. The blinding light he fell into was warm, but he was more in pain from the ringing in his ears and his burning eyes. He tried to call out to them once more.

And then he woke up in a cold sweat. Skystrike stared at the white ceiling as his memory came back to him. He sighed at the dream he had and sat up, the cover falling off of him. He sucked air through his teeth at the pain in his side and back. His leg and arm felt tight. Skystrike looked over his body to see that each affected area was covered in a cast. But more surprisingly, Stardust laid at the side of his bed, asleep.

He seemed to be in Ponyville Hospital. Skystrike vaguely remembered being carried before the darkness overtook him. Skystrike looked around his room a bit more, seeing Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy sleeping soundly on the visitor seats. A part of him didn't want to wake them yet… and the other part still had some thoughts to go through.

He was about to put a hoof up to hold his forehead, but was stopped by his helmet in between… Looks like his identity wouldn't be revealed just yet. Skystrike looked around a bit more, seeing the IV bag going into his left arm, as well as the oxygen tube going into his nose. On the cupboard next to his bedside were multiple bouquets of flowers and get well soon cards. One stuck out to him a bit, it being a glass of sky blue tulips with an azure blue card under it. He reached over and opened the card. He was a bit surprised, but smiled at the well wishes from Trixie.

His attention moved to the sound of hoof steps coming down the hall. He put down the card and watched a mare come through the door frame. She held a white coat with a pink mane and tail, her hair in a bun and sporting a nurse’s hat. She looked up from her clipboard to see Skystrike looking at her. “Yo.”

She nearly dropped her clipboard at the unexpected greeting. “Oh, you’re awake!” She let out a sigh of relief. “I… wasn’t sure if you’d pull through.”

“...So that’s what that dream was.” Skystirke said to himself as he sat up. “Your name was Redheart, right? What happened after the Ursa Minor?”

Redheart nodded. “Well, we rushed you here and stitched you up the best we could. None of our normal medical techniques worked on you so… we had to improvise. While you were under, a lot of ponies came by to drop by gifts. Your friends have been taking turns watching over you.”

“Huh…”

“What?” Redheart asked, confused.

“Nothing, just… after the paper and Magnus, I wasn’t expecting so many to… care.” He huffed. “Speaking of, how long was I out?”

“Almost a week. Five days to be exact.”

Skystrike sighed at the realization of the time lost. “God damn it…”

“For some good news, you have some visitors if you want to let them in?” Redheart asked. Skystrike nodded as he looked at his pink stained fur. Most of his body was covered in bandages, making it hard to move… or breathe… maybe the latter was because of his wounds.

Redheart went to get the visitors. His ears began to ring at the sound of several hoofsteps hurrying towards his room. He winced as several voices tried to speak to him all at once. Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Spike’s talking woke up the rest that were present. They were all glad that he was awake. Pinkie tackled him into a hug. It took every ounce of self control to not open his mouth and scream. Skystrike patted the mare on the back a bit before pushing her off. “Hello, Pinkie… while I appreciate it, please don’t hug me again. I’m in a lot of pain.”

“We’re just… glad you're ok!” She wiped her tears away. “What were you thinking going after that Ursa Minor!?”

Skystrike stared at her. “Well… I thought that if I slowed it down, it’d give ponies time to escape. But then Trixie decided to freeze up, and I had to make sure she got out of the way… Because you know… it’s my job.”

“But for Trixie?” Rainbow put out a hoof. “Really?”

“Yes, really.” He huffed. “While I may think she’s annoying, I don’t think she deserved to die.”

“Well, me neither, but you risked your life for her!”

“Yes.” Skystrike nodded. “Because I deemed her life precious enough to save. I had the power to do something. If I didn’t do anything, it’d be the same to me as condemning her to a certain death.”

“Just… Try not to do it again.” Fluttershy pleaded. “You worried all of us.”

Skystrike looked at her, then huffed. “I’d be lying if I said I won't. It is who I am, to protect those who need it. If I pass by saving any life I deem worth it, then I’m satisfied.”

Twilight blinked. “Wait… is that why you died all those years ago? Who were you trying to protect that you had to die for it!?”

“...I suppose you all deserve some sort of answer for sticking with me for this long.” He sighed and crossed his hooves. “While I wish not to go into the details… An enemy of mine burned down the orphanage I grew up in to get to me. Because of that, I made it look like I didn’t make it out. That way, the one who was after me would have no reason to go after anypony else I cared about.”

“But… you still hurt your family by staying ‘dead’.” Applejack said. “Don’t you… feel bad about that?”

“Of course.” He nodded. “I regret it every day. But what is a moment of pain when the reward is a lifetime of safety? Wasn't a decision I was happy to make, but one I must live with… If I must go through pain, even to the point of death, so those I care for can live, then I’ll do it.”

Rarity couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “You can't be serious… We’re here glad you’re still breathing, and you’re saying you’d throw your life away again? Do you not care for your life at all!?”

“Eeeh…” The stallion shrugged. “Saying I don’t is wrong. It’s more… I value others' lives over my own… You’re the Elements of Harmony and a Royal Guard. You’re the pinnacles of hope in Equestria, and you’ve saved more ponies than you can count… I’ve brought more pain to this world than any normal pony should’ve, and I think I’ve done enough. This world won't miss me when I’m gone.”

“But we will, Skystrike.” Stardust said through… was she… was she crying? “You’ve made friends here. Ones that care! And you-... you want to throw those memories away!? Are you kidding me!?”

A part wanted to ask why she cared so much, as it hasn't even been two weeks since she came to Ponyville. But the other part knew that she was right. He turned to look out the window. “I know… and it’s shown through the effort you all put in. It’s just… so hard to believe anymore. Too many that I’ve hurt. Too many hurt because of me…” Then he looked back to his friends. “But if it makes you feel better, I don't plan on dying anytime soon.”

Spike wanted to move on from the heavy subject. He quickly ran to get the nurse, Redheart, coming back. “Nurse Redheart, do you know when Sk- er, Nebula will be able to leave?”

She gave the stallion a once over, then looked at her clipboard. “Well, his wounds aren’t bad, there’s just so many. If he’s safe about it, noon.” Then she turned to Skystrike. “This goes without saying, but I’ve dealt with some hard headed ponies. No flying. I’d say no walking, but we don’t have a wheelchair for somepony of your size. Even Big McIntosh’s won't fit you… I’d prefer if you stayed for a few more days at least, but you’re your own stallion.” She looked at her clipboard once more to remember the injuries. “Your back left leg is sprained, but there’s only minor swelling. Try to stay on all fours… or three hooves, as your front left hoof is broken. I’ll put it in a sling before you’re discharged. Try not to move your back too much, as that’s where most of the stitching is. It… may leave a scar.”

Skystrike chuckled as he pushed himself up. “That’s fine. They make me look cooler.” Skystrike then looked to the baby dragon. “You heard the nurse, kid. We’re going to have to start your practice another time.”

Twilight blinked. “...His huh?”

Skystrike looked at her, then to Spike. “You didn’t tell her?”

“I thought you told her…”

“Why would I-!?” Skystrike face hooved. “Spike, too tired to deal with this. Convince Twilight and we’ll do it once you do. Redhearrt, can we start the process?”

“Hold on, you can't just push this off!” Twilight stomped a hoof. “He’s supposed to help me out in the library!”

“He asked me to do it, and I’m going to do it.” Skystrike said quickly. “Besides, It’ll be in the mornings. We can work out a schedule.”

“W-well, it’s my say if he goes or not anyway!”

“You’re completely right.” Skystrike nodded to the unicorn’s surprise. “Spike, cover your ear holes.” The baby dragon did so, pulling his frills over the holes and covering them with his hands. Skystrike turned back to Twilight. “And it’s also his say to decide if he’s going to listen to you. He’s growing up, and wants to start making his own choices. As a pretty rebellious kid myself, it was only a matter of time before I started sneaking out and doing what I did. And before your mind starts racing, I’m not teaching him to fight, I’m teaching him self discipline. And once again, it’s up to him to convince you.”

“Can I uncover my ears now?” Spike yelled. Skystrike nodded. “...So is that a yes to-”

“You know what, fine.” Twilight conceded. “Do what you want. But if there’s any harm on his scales, I will tear you limb from limb.”

“Oooh, how scary!” Skystrike put his hooves up before making himself shake. “OH! Shiver me timbers!” He got a few laughs out of the others present as he stood up. “...SHIT!”

“What!?” They all asked in worry.

“...I just remembered I dropped an egg when I ran out to fight that Ursa… and I think I left the fridge open.” They all blinked at his response. “Stardust!”

She sighed. “Already took care of all that, sir.”

“Oh good.” He started walking, holding his left forehoof above the ground. “...So, does anyone want to get something to eat?”

---

A couple days have passed since, and Skystrike was better than ever. Thanks to his magic, still unknown to the others, he could heal himself very quickly. Near instantly if he wanted to, but he needed to be conscious and focusing on it to do so. It would also rouse a lot of suspicion if he came back the day after with no wounds. He took off his casts and stretched. He let out a happy moan at the pleasant feeling.

Not too much has changed. Stardust has been doing all the grocery shopping as he was staying in his bed due to the wounds. He thought about a walk through the town, but then he had some thoughts. Sure, maybe ponies accepted him more now after saving their homes, but he was still kinda known as the ‘brute’ of Ponyville… He also didn't want to risk seeing Snips and Snails’s parents and going on a tirade. Like, what type of dumbass crotch goblin lures an Ursa Minor to Ponyville!? No, it’s even worse, they wanted an Ursa Major!

Fuck them kids!

He sighed as he regained his composure. Skystrike had more pressing matters to think of. After the fight with the Ursa, he realized that even with his armor, it wouldn’t be able to take those hits. He needed to make a new set. Might as well make some for Stardust and eventually Spike. But where would he get said materials? Well, first, he’d need to decide what to use.

He used heavy armor. Stardust’s armor isn’t nearly as heavy, nor would be as bulky from the ideas he has right now, but something to cover more than the chest, back, and head would be ideal. Then there’s Spike… Best to start off small. But as thoughts of armor for the baby dragon went through his mind, he had a different thought. Dragon scales are pretty strong, even a baby’s can deflect most weaponry. If that was the case, then light, yet strong armor would be better. He’d need a lot of materials, sturdy ones to be exact. He had some in mind, but where he’d need to go for them would be a bit hard to do.

And then he remembered. A while ago, a few years at this point, his dragon companion, Tethys, had another dragon who was her guard or something, if he remembered right. Something about bringing her back home. She didn't want to go, and of course, Skystrike wasn’t going to let her go either. Luckily, they didn’t have to fight.

The dragon was simply the messenger, and left a message for Tethys. While Skystrike never found out what was in it, it was important enough for the dragon to give them a candle. Skystrike held onto it for safe keeping. Checking his drawers, sure enough he still had it. The golden wax sat within the cast-iron lantern. He remembered the dragon saying the flame was magical, the tip of the candle still burning an orange heat. The dragon said that if he was needed, then to burn a letter and he would receive it. He’d come, for a price of course.

But then Skystrike had two thoughts. One, what would he pay the dragon? Two, where would he meet the dragon? Well, Tethys liked his cooking, since dragons don't really cook food… that part is easy. But meeting the dragon would be a bit harder. Can't have it land in the middle of Ponyville. “Wait…” Skystrike had a realization. “This’ll be easy.”

He remembered that because of the long lifespans of dragons, time isn’t a big deal for them. So, Skystrike began writing the letter, asking the dragon to land about a days travel, specifying for ponies, south of Canterlot, describing the city to someone who likely haven't seen it. Once he arrived, the dragon would give a signal and Skystrike would be there within a day. Yeah, this’ll work.

Skystrike signed the letter before folding it up and throwing it into the fire, igniting it and turning to ash with a satisfying poof. “And now, we wait.”

Comments

[Agend z]

LOL

[ShadowLight96]

Dude you need to stop calling colts fillies. It's not correct and is demeaning to the male characters

[SolarNight00]

“What!?” The two fillies said behind them. Skystrike looked back to see Twilight and Spike standing next to them.

Are all boy's girls in this story?.....

[mlpengineer]

me when "Skado skadee, he commin’ with me" 🤣🤣