Prologue

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A dampen sigh went through the air followed by a thin coat of vapor, that started to disappear as fast as it came. The sigh became an echo and soon it has been lost within the mighty cavern, which was enveloped by the fine light of the local mushrooms. Insects of all sorts were gathering around them collecting both light and spores they managed to harvest, while the sound of their tiny wings created a soothing orchestra. Life can be found anywhere, as long it will be given a chance to flourish.

This chance has been give long time ago. So long that it seemed impossible to describe it properly with words. And yet he remembered the time of his distant youth, and the very beginning of the oldest plants of the local fauna. They were merely seeds that were filling a bag. Now they were strong, and healthy witnesses of time long passed. The memory brought a smile to his face though it lasted only for a moment. With great care he checked if the breathing mask was properly sitting on the right place, and took few deep breaths.

< By the Elements… so many things have changed.>

The hook of his wing started to rub his temple, while the eyes inspected the richly carved wood of the table that has been placed here by his bidding. Piles of blank papers, scrolls and letters were covering its surface, placed in a simple order. At least this was his opinion. In fact if somepony would gaze upon it the order would quickly be named chaotic.

It was controlled chaos… something he was not doing intentionally. As long his work was not being affected by it, he allowed its existence. A beep cut through the sound of wings, and even the heavy breaths. For a moment the stallion turned his head away from the table looking upon a device his subjects called a machine. It was attached to his side in a way which would allow him to hide it under his wing if it was his desire. As much he was fascinated by the innovations which have been born within the last thousand years, all the cables made walking uncomfortable.

Despite the small problems, deep inside his heart the stallion was thankful for the machine’s effect. Breathing was definitely easier and special ingredients within the artificial air were protecting, or even preventing painful stings in his lungs. But each mentioned object only reminded his troubled mind of the fragility, that has befallen his health and body.

With half open eyes, that seemed to be lost in the distance of the cavern, a very delicate light caught his attention. It was one of the bugs, which has somehow been separated from its swarm. A very odd thing, since it was common knowledge among his kind that the Greenlings never separated from each other. Carefully the stallion lifted his wing, and spoke some words towards the ball of light.

First the Greenling remained in the air, but in the end it landed upon the hook of the lifted wing.

< What brings you to me my little friend? > Thought the stallion curiously, and watched every move of the tiny bug. The Greenling was also inspecting him. Then it flapped its wings a few times, and flew with impressive grace against the winds of the outside world. Surprisingly it landed upon the table and the object, which was in front of the stallion for a couple of hours.

It was an opened scroll that was waiting to be filled with words. The Greenling seemed to wash its antennas, before it faced the giant’s eyes. Once more it flapped its wings, and a slightly noticeable green powder spread upon a small area of the scroll. Then with one might jump it tossed itself into the air and let the wind bring it back to its swarm.

In this part of the world many ponies claimed and believed with all their heart that the gathered light, and spores of the Greenlings brought luck upon the individual who was lucky enough to embrace it’s *blessing*. There was once a time when he believed it, but now he was grown up and old very old. Old enough to realize, that something like luck does not exist in the reality, but in the minds of his subjects.

Yet for the very first time in his life, something like this occurred before his very eyes. Next to the scroll there were no quills what may appear odd to a stranger, but they were not required, or needed. Too weak, and too ill to use magic, he decided to write in a very old and nearly forgotten way.

The right hook of his wing was holding a small bottle of ink, which was still sealed with fresh wax. A chill wind blow went though the natural entrance of the cavern, and caught his mane with its gentle touch. As much as the stallion wished to pull the mask off, he did not take it off and enjoyed the feeling on his sickly body. Then everything around him became silent.

Only the dampen sound of his breath and the beating of his heart was breaking the silence that has befallen the world. The eyes inspected the surroundings with greater suspicion. Everything was moving very, very slow. Mushrooms were being swayed by the wind, the Greenlings, and other types of bugs fought against the influence of nature. His eyes kept looking around.

Now they were focusing upon the walls of the cavern. Here and there, plants of various natures were spreading over the surface. Some were creating impressive looking patterns. Some looked like veins, which could make one think that one was inside of a gigantic creature, while others seemed to be alien and have no purpose. In that very moment he looked upon something, that have been manipulated by skilled hooves, wings and magic. Hidden underneath the veins, moos and other plants his eyes could not recognize, the stallion saw something that seemed familiar.

Though it was a risky move from his side, he decided to move the plants with his magic. Once the energy has been focused and the control has been maintained, an unpleasant pain went through his bones. But something made him continue this rather unnecessary waste of strength. The magical flows embraced the plants, either moving them aside, or ripping them out. Slowly the different forms started to shyly jut out through the green, revealing more and more of its true shape. Once it finally could be recognized, even from this distance, the stallion was barely maintaining the spell. But after realizing what he was looking at, the price he has paid seemed to be a worthy one. The weak eyes were open wide, a surprised gasp went out of him and for a longer while he has stopped to breath.

For what he was looking upon was something far, far older than him. It was a stone image. Carved out with incredible skill, the stone image was representing the sigil of his family and with it the very crest of the kingdom. He did not remember that such remarkable crest has ever been here before, but his memory was failing him already. The stallion cought heavily and inspected the marvelous work. A spell made sure that the time would never affect the sigil in any way. It was a shield, which had a very old, yet still precise map of the kingdom on its surface. Batwings were embracing it like a mother would hold her child.

Pride filled his chest, while his eyes kept inspecting the sigil. Then he felt it. A great disturbance within the everlasting fields of magic itself. His sight has been limited and with it only the sigil was able to be recognized within the dark shroud. Another strong disturbance went through his mind like an echo that seemed to not have an end. The stone image started to tremble right in front of the stallion.

From the center of the shield a small crack started to appear, spreading in every know wind direction. The map has been split in pieces the wings that were embracing the shield let go of it, and started to fight each other in a bloody struggle. Until the moment both struck their hooks into the crack which started everything. With a mighty pull the map ended up being totally ripped apart.

The stallion gasped loudly, and ungentle he fell to his knees. His breath was unnaturally fast. Sweat was being soaked by his attire, while the horn lost its shine and with it the magical connection. Struggling for air he tried to stand up, yet his legs have failed to obey his command. Uncertain of how many time he fell, of how many time has passed till his hooves found a solid hold the stallion looked back at the place where he has witnessed… *something*. But there where he expected plants and the very sigil of his family, he found only a blank wall of the cavern.

< By the Elements… and by everything I hold dear… > He thought and wiped away the sweat from his forehead. Swiftly he followed the instructions of his trusted doctors pressing several buttons on the small device. The result was a stronger dose of the medicine, which helped him to normalize his breath. Everything from within was shacking, while on the outside shivers went through the stallion’s body. Surprisingly the small bottle of ink remained within the grasp of his hook. Its grip tighter and far stronger than before, yet the bottle showed no signs of any affection. Once more he looked upon the content of the bottle and not for the last time he did not dare to open it.

If not for the lack of words, or maybe the lack of courage would not hold him back, the very expensive and rare ink would be already open. The shock was not fading away, while the nets of fear kept ripping into his heart. It took him a lot of courage, to close his eyes for at least a moment. Taking deep breaths the sick one started to lift his free hook in front of him. It may look strange, but thanks to this method the stallion managed to overcome emotions, which have befallen him. Another strong wind blow went through the natural vents helping him to relax even further.

Followed by the sound of the wind, which already started to lose itself within the cavern, another sound filled the air. It was the sound of flapping wings, which was being carried by the cold winds. First he did not pay any attention to it. After all the skies were filled with Pegasi and other species which were able to soar through the air. But the sound came closer and closer with each heartbeat.

It quickly became obvious, that somepony was heading towards him despite the bidding of leaving him alone. Nopony would like to be seen in such miserable state. This is why he tried to somehow correct his attire and of course the mane, wings and hooves. Desperately he also tried to hide the cables, but this was hardly possible considering their shear amount.

Before he could do anything else the sound of shoes echoed only a few steps behind the stallion. A terrible feeling started to spread within his belly, making him believe that he might throw up the small stew he ate before he departed into this secluded place. The uninvited guest started to move towards him. By the sound of it, it could only be a mare. For each step was light and it had a certain grace the most stallions did not posses.

Also he could recognize the difference between high heels and solid leather shoes.

“I did ask to not interrupt me. I hope it is something of great importance.” Throughout the mask his voice did sound not only dampen, but also very different. In fact it made his already weak voice, sound scratchy and even sicklier than it truly was. Finally he turned around, releasing slight clouds of vapor and looked upon the unexpected guest. He has not been mistaken.

In front of him stood a young mare, who has reached maturity and the blossom of marehood. She was wearing a marvelous violet gown, which was tightly hugging her body showing her curves and lines in a perfect way. The silver mane was slightly ruffled by the flight, but it did not take away its beauty. It was reflecting the light of the mushrooms and the moonlight itself in a glorious way.

But he could not see her face for she was shyly looking away, but something was telling him that she could slightly look at him through her hair.

“There is no need of fearing me child. I do not bite.” The stallion fully turned around to the mare moving his free, yet closed wing forward, offering her his hook. Using her own hook the mare moved away the hair out of her face, and with noticeable hesitation she moved towards him. Once he was able to look at her properly, he saw uncertainty written upon the mare’s face. She kept looking at him like he would be a ghost. With this current state, he would not be surprised by it if he looked like one.

Only a few steps were separating them from each other, yet it felt like something was trying to keep them apart. The mare tried to say something, but her mouth kept shutting itself. Once more he inspected her face for out from this distance, he could see definitely better. She looked familiar… and her sight made his heart be filled with happiness. The wing went down against his will followed by the head. The eyes opened wide and his legs gave up against his will. He would have fallen, but the mare jumped towards him and surprisingly managed to hold his weight.

“Father!” The mare cried out, and helped the stallion to sit down on the nearby pile of pillows. While he was breathing heavily, his eyes kept looking into her cat like eyes. He was shaking his head in disbelieve.

“M-Moonwing?” He asked with a very broken voice. She did not have to answer for her smile only confirmed who she was. “Moonwing…My little star.”

Moonwing’s eyes started to tear up, while she nodded happily at him. The answer made things only worse… for the happiness that was filling his heart started to fade away as fast as it came. Was the mare in front of him real? Or was it some kind of cruel joke his own mind have created? But the feeling of her hook holding his felt real, especially after she pressed it carefully against her cheek. One single tear ran down upon it simply continuing its fall like a rain drop sliding down a leaf. Yet it still could not be true… that this grown up mare at the blossom of her marehood could be his small daughter.

“Y-you… i-it… it can’t be true… you were a small filly.” It was hard to talk through the mask and it seemed a higher dose of the medicine was required. Moonwing noticed that her father had problems with breathing. Without any hesitation she pressed the button on the small device and with it releasing more of the medicine. It took its time for it to kick in but gladly his breath normalized. The mare was still holding his hook with hers, and the machine was reacting upon her actions. So it could only mean that she was not a mere illusion of his clouded mind.

Moonwing’s tufted ears went down while her sad eyes gazed upon the stallion.

“Daddy… do you remember what happened to you?”

“I-I… I remember a blinding flash.” Finally he managed to lift his head up and look at his daughter. “Pain in my horn…” A flashback hit his mind and it seemed that he relived the past. “And a voice… which has been burned into my mind.” Their eyes met. He saw his own reflection, yet he did not recognize the stallion who was supposed to be him.

“You screamed after me.” A sting went through his head and he moaned. “Chaos.” Another uncontrolled movement of his head. “Laughter.” The pain made him speak through his clinched teeth. “My wings… they were ripped… you were falling.” He freed his hook of her grasp and pressed it against his temple. “Laughter echoed through the caves.”
Pictures flashed in his mind. Like it would be a puzzle each coming flash brought clarity alongside the pain. Suddenly it stopped as fast as it started. The wind ruffled their manes and continued its way deep into the mountain.

“I remember. I remember everything.” His voice has changed. It did not sound broken, weak or unfamiliar. The true voice of the king echoed through the cavern.

“Only for a moment I was not looking after you. It was enough for a small filly to disappear in these depths. Then I heard you scream. Never in my life was I running so fast…" His voice failed him for a momnet but he continued his story. "Something pounced me out of the darkness and ripped the weave of my wings. I felt how something went violently into my horn. I ignored everything... I simply followed your voice.” The king's vision became blurry but he was not paying any attention to the tears.

“A strange looking creature was holding you. Laughing at my sight it tossed you into an abyss. You were very young and your wings were not strong enough to fight against the winds. I-I jumped after you…” Abruptly he stopped to talk and wiped away his tears. “My memory ends here… I woke up with a terrible pain in my heart. Though I did not know what it meant I knew that I have failed something.”

“I remember how everything went dark.” Moonwing pushed herself against his chest. “I was being tossed by the winds like a toy… until you reached after me. You tried to use your magic but nothing happened.” She was shaking while the words were losing their volume in the cavern. “You tried to slow the fall with your hooks… the terrible sound of stone being ripped apart still haunts me. We kept falling. Many times you hit against the walls… each time you shielded me with yourself. Then we have been tossed out by the winds and the walls of stone turned into a mighty cavern . The bottom came closer and closer… One more time you tried to use magic and in panic you unleashed a magical surge. Before we hit one of the underground wells magic surrounded us… protecting us from certain death.”

She stopped to talk and simply pressed her face against his ample chest. His wing embraced her on its own while he whispered his daughter a silent “Shhhh…”

“I woke up ashore… you lying next to me. I tried to wake you up but nothing worked. If not for the mighty impact in one of the main wells we would have never been found so quickly. You fell into a coma and since then you remained in it for a very long time.”

“H-how long… was I gone?”

She was trying to fight against the tears while she looked into her father’s eyes. Sadness, but even more importantly guilt was written in them. Roughly he could imagine for how long he was gone… for Alicorns do not age as fast as other races.

“How long… please answer me.”

“You were gone for nearly a millennium.”

The stallion was acting like something has petrified him. He was gone for nearly a millennium? His shoulders felt heavy like somepony has placed something upon them. A strange voice went out from him but the mask made it sound even stranger. Considering how Moonwing looked like now, all the new devices, ways of raising constructions… it could be possible that nearly a thousand years have passed.

Sadly it did not make it any easier to comprehend it. The father stood up, while his daughter tried to read something from his facial expression. He helped her to gently stand up and without saying anything he turned around to the table.

“I have lost so many years.” Moonwing took her place besides him while he spoke this words. “I could not watch how you grew into the beautiful mare you are now.” She blushed a little bit but remained in a royal posture. “What is happening to our Kingdom? Nopony wanted to talk to me.”

“You have woken up suddenly father… we all were shocked once the message reached us. The doctors had to wait till your condition would get better… it was also Corvus’s wish to let you regain strength first.”

“Where is your brother? And why did he give an order like that?”

“He… we were afraid that it would badly affect your health. Even now I am not sure if I should talk to you about this matter.”

“Enough of this secrecy my child. Knowing that you might be hiding something of great importance makes me feel only worse… “He was thinking for a moment. “I can’t really explain it but I had a vision. I saw our Kingdom being torn apart.”

His daughter did not say anything. She closed her eyes and touched her heart with the hook. “Since you were gone for so long… the high council declared to Corvus, that he shall take your place during your absent. In that moment the six Lords were against the council’s decision. Openly they declared that they would rather separate themselves from our kingdom...than let a blighted one rule over them.” She lowered her head. “Three hundred years ago Nocturia has been split apart and with it we lost our former glory.”

A very strong wind came through the entrance. The loss scrolls, papers and letters have been blown away, quickly disappearing in the darkness. Only one scroll remained on the table… the very scroll he was held with his free hook.

“Father please… you need to rest and spare your strength. Come with me I will help you reach your chambers.” The noticeable concern in her eyes and voice deeply touched him, but also filled his heart with sadness. Gently he intended to nuzzle her but quickly stopped because of the mask. This is why he gently touched her cheek with his free hook.

“Smile for me my little star.” Carefully he lifted Moonwing’s head and looked into her yellow eyes. This act rewarded the sickly king with a smile that he has loved since her birth. The problems of the world were pushed aside even if it was only for a moment. Even the pain seemed to have left the old body of his.

“I am so sorry Moonwing.”

“Oh daddy I missed you so much.” Once more she pushed his hook against her cheek. “I should have never left your side back then.”

“You were still a child and we become wiser upon our mistakes. Do not blame yourself for what have happened. If somepony is to blame then it is me. But now we have to push aside our personal feelings.”

“Father?”

“The news you have brought to me fill my heart with grief. The old foundations of our society are threatened by greed and lust for power. I shall honor your wish… but first I will finish something I have sadly not started yet.”

Once more but finally for the last time he looked at the ink bottle. With a swift move the hook removed the wax like butter and opened it like a bottle of champagne. The ink bottle has been placed on the table right next to the one left scroll.

“Father you really need some rest. In your condition you should not…”

“I may not be as healthy as I once used to be, but my mind has not been affected by it.” He cut in a bit too harsh. The father’s ears went down once the realization kicked in. “I am so sorry… but the very same thing was being thrown at me day after day in that cursed isolation room.”

Moonwing seemed to be not affected by his harsh action, but she also did not say anything. The daughter was simply watching his every move trying to find some clues in both the body language, and her father’s sickly eyes. Gladly during all the years of servitude for the subjects he learned to hide his true feelings behind a mask. Only a few individuals were able to see the truth hidden behind it. The mare on his side was one of these individuals. At least he thought so.

“Tell me the truth… how grim is our current situation? How far does our kingdom reach now? How many allies do we have left? Did any acts of war been executed within this realm?”

“Since your coma has befallen you certain ponies saw an opportunity of overtaking our kingdom… but no alliances were forged for there is only place for one on the stalagmite throne. Everypony believed that your reign has come to an end. Our borders reach far beyond the three mighty hills… but the borders of the six lords have grown, since they are expanding deeper into the earth. Gladly there were no open acts of war, only a few struggles Corvus managed to stop with his presence. But what he did not prevent were conflicts between the Diamond Dogs and other races…”

< So this is the price for all my hard work and servitude… > Without intending it the king ripped his free hook into the wood leaving a nasty ‘scar’ on the surface of the table. A cold sweat seemed to run down his back while he struggled to free his hook from the wood. To be honest he was starting to feel sick again. Something that did not go unnoticed.

“Father you need to seek out a doctor.”

“No! Enough time has been taken away from me. The legacy of our ancestors is threatened by the six tribes and their Lords. Ponies I have believed to be my friends disgraced the honor of our house because lust for wealth and power has blinded them. They destroy bounds of friendship between other races and openly break vows of their own ancestors. Everything has fallen to the verge of barbarism!”

His eyes lay upon the blank scroll, while he felt the piercing eyes of his little star upon him.

“There was once a time I believed that I could overcome everything on my own for my beloved subjects. Because of this foolishness Nocturia became a shadow of its former self. In my current state I barely manage to walk properly on my own… but even if this would not be the case this situation is bigger than me.“

Slowly and with noticeable hesitation the stallion pushed his right hook into the ink bottle.

“What do you intend to do father?”

“Do something I should have done long ago.” He looked at her with weak yet serious eyes. “I will require your help. I need the fastest flying courier our kingdom has to offer, and even more importantly I will need tons of books and scrolls.”

“Of course father…” It was obvious that she was a bit surprised for his last bidding.

“It is the duty of the king to serve his subjects. But how am I supposed to be of any use with my lack of knowledge?”

“As long you will gather your knowledge without threatening your health I will provide you with everything.”

< You sound like your mother… she would be very proud of you. > His hook reached the scroll and with great disappointment the king realized that he went out of shape. The hookwriting looked far beyond awful.

“Before you will go…”

Moonwing’s horn started to glow and with closed eyes she casted a spell. The scrolls that have been taken by the wind landed on the table. Some of them were torn but the most were in good shape, and surprisingly in the same order he has placed them on the table.

“Thank you. Go now my little star. We have a lot of work to do.”

The king’s full attention belonged to the scrolls now. It took him a while and a lot of scrolls till his old shape returned, but in the end he managed to overcome this small problem. His message was ready and his seal was magically securing its content. But he was sure that the one who would receive this message would be able to open it on her own.

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The sun was about to hide behind the horizon being barely a small ember of its true glory. Its fading light slowly vanished shrouding the land with a dark coat. Like every living being needs air and water to live the land needed a break from the warmth of the blazing star. Once the last blaze has finally disappeared behind the mighty mountains a small point of light lit up its surroundings with its turquoise color.

A silhouette could be recognized within the cone, creating a very bizarre looking contrast to the night. It seemed like the silhouette was melting with the colors of the night or better said was being one with it. The complete darkness started to be pushed away by a delicate light of the moon, which was taking its rightful place upon the night sky. The great satellite was being followed by countless stars, like sheep that were following its shepherd.

Once unleashed the stars spread all over the sky creating all kind of shapes of the known star constellations, and the ones that were waiting to be discovered by the subjects. The silhouette was following each move of its creation, making sure that everything was in perfect order. Satisfied with the result of the hard work the caster enchanted the night with various colors coming either from comets or other earthly affections. With each move of the head the sky wrapped itself in beauty until the work has been finally done.

Everything was gently lit up by the moon’s light, or better said by its reflection. They symbiotic pact between two astronomical objects was once more playing their roles in the circle of life. Princess Luna embraced the incoming wind with open wings and enjoyed its gentle touch. She allowed herself to let out a relaxed sigh before she turned around, and left the balcony she kept using to start her nights.

Two Unicorn guards were waiting for her at the entrance. Both wearing the darker uniform of the Night Guard they welcomed her by hitting their breastplate with their banded hooves. A very old form of greeting their ruler, but Luna was used to it and only by her bidding the guards were performing it. Each of them took their place on both her side. The oldest among them was called Heinrich and was one of her most trusted Guards. The elder pony quickly gave his princess a slight insight on the upcoming meetings with various ponies and other races.

As much as boring the schedule may sound, Heinrich always managed to make it sound entertaining. Unlike the most guards he kept adding funny comments about obvious facts without insulting anypony. Deep inside her heart Luna wished that every guard would be like him, and not like the most guards who acted like golems. They were walking through one of many hallways, which were decorated with stained glass.

The colors were delicately melting with each other, creating an enchanting light effect that only the colors of the north could beat. While Heinrich kept talking the mare enjoyed the soft light upon her skin. The guard on the left remained silent and it was obvious that he seemed to be stressed. A new recruit who tried to make a good impression on the side of his ruler and teacher alike.

“You do not have to be afraid of me dear Guard.” Said Luna and interrupted Heinrich with a gentle touch of her wing. She could hear his annoyed mumbles under his nose, but after she smiled at him the elder forgave her for interruption. It did not stop his mumbles though.

“Also you are performing well. Heinrich does have a good eye for new recruits.”

“T-Thank you Mylady.” Said the young guard and tried to hide his blush behind his helm. “Ser Heinrich is a very good teacher.”

“The time will show if your words are true boy. If not for the Princess I would have never taken a new pupil under my *wings*.”

This seemed to deeply bother the youngling but he maintained his posture properly.

“Do not worry about your teachers words. He does tend to make things sound negative, hiding their true meaning behind a wall of words.”

“I did not even warm up yet Mylady. If you do not mind... there are still some points that require your full attention.”

“Please continue then.” She looked at the youngling and spoke to him in his mind. <He was praising you each time he send you on a patrol. Heinrich is not easily impressed. Keep up the good work my fellow subject. >

A hint of a smile appeared on his face but he remained professional, and simply kept escorting his Princess. For quite a while her full attention belonged only to Heinrich and his voice, which could easily wrap one with its net. Some claimed that he was a good story teller and often she heard that he was visiting orphans in his free time. Maybe because he knew how hard the life of an orphan could be?

Or maybe because he was all alone in this world? As much as he likes to talk he barely told anything about himself, and his papers were vaguely telling his story. Finally he ended his *short* report only a few steps before the mighty door that was leading into the throne room.

The younger recruit stepped forward and touched the surface of the door with his horn on three different locations. With a loud *clack* one door wing opened and quickly the young stallion went in. His voice echoed through the hall and the throne room.

“Princess Luna! Beauty and incarnation of the Night! Rightful ruler on the side of her marvelous sister Princess Celestia!”

The choice of words surprised her, and even more surprisingly it also caught Heinrich of guard. So far only a few ponies have ever called her incarnation of the night. It filled her heart with joy to be called like that. With a light purple blush on her cheeks the Princess of the Night looked at Heinrich, and nod at him pleased by his fine choice.

“Sometimes I really do not understand this boy… but I know that what is going on in his heart will never fail us.”

“A small seed can grow into a mighty tree if one will tend to it with care and patience. Something tells me that he is a piece of coal that will one day turn into a diamond.”

“I will sadly not live long enough to see that.”

His words filled her heart with grief. For a very long time she have seen ponies live and depart from this world, while she and her sister remained upon this world for the sake of new and future generations. The door has been finally opened fully by the kind help of magic and both ponies entered the great throne room. Like in the hallway the throne room was being enveloped by the colors of the stained glass.

They were following the rich red carpet that was older than the most guards within this room. Upon the throne sat her sister Princess Celestia. Only two Guards of the day remained at the steps of the throne, waiting for their Princess so they could finally bring her back to her quarters. As usual she was being busy with her work, but once she saw her little sister the Alicorn smiled happily at her and with a wink of her wing she quietly called Luna to herself. The Princess of the Night thanked Heinrich for his time and allowed him to return to his many duties. He bowed gracefully and left the room with his faithful pupil.

“Dearest sister you can go rest now. I shall watch over the night as I always did.”

Princess Celestia was still sitting on the throne, finishing signing certain documents that were requiring her attention. Again she smiled at her sister and without any words Celestia pointed at the last ten documents, her secretaries were holding on silver tablets in front of their ruler.

“They seem never to find an end hmm?” Princess Luna giggled and watched how her sister quickly yet properly signed everything. “You do realize that I could take over now dearest sister?”

“Yes I am certain of this but you have enough work on your back already. I do not wish to bother you with my duties.”

< You were performing my duties for over a millennium Celestia… > Thought Luna and sighed in her thoughts, thinking about the mistakes of her past. Suddenly a guard charged into the throne room. It was one of her Night Guards who has already started their duties outside the walls of the castle.

“Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!” The guard was gasping for air after he reached the stairs of their throne.

“What is the meaning of it? Aren’t you one of the guards who I stationed at the gates?” Asked Luna trying not to speak in the old archaic way of time long passed.

“Yes Mylady… I have been ordered to go ahead and inform you about the unexpected visit of a delegate.”

“A delegate? Indeed this is something truly unexpected. Usually we are being informed about such matter… we are not prepared to welcome him or her properly.” Said Celestia and finished to sign the last scroll. “Can it be that our friends from Saddle Arabia moved their meeting with us?”

“This is rather unlikely… we both know how much they like to keep everything in order.” Said Luna and looked back at her Guard. “Who is this delegate and where does he come from?”

“I have to disappoint you Princess Celestia. The Delegate is not from Saddle Arabia. He himself claims that he has been send to Equestria by the King under the Mountain.”

Both Celestia and Luna did not manage to suppress a gasp. Some of the guards lifted their eyes brows, while others remained professional watchers. Or simply golems as she used to call some of them.

“Where is this Delegate?”

“He is on his way Princess… the Commander of the Night Guard decided that it would be better to escort him in the traditional way.”

“A wise decision…” Said Celestia and levitated the scroll with her quill to the nearby secretary. “You may go and rest for a while.”

“Princess Celestia. Princess Luna.” The guard bowed respectfully before his rulers and left the throne room along side with the secretaries, who were trying to not drop the pyramids of scrolls on their tablets.

“We did not receive any messages from the Nocturians for a very long time…” Luna sounded very concerned. “The last time we ever heard from them was in the time their King offered us Friendship by granting some of his soldier to our Night Guard.”

“Soon we shall find out what it is all about.” The sound of a horn went through the air.

It was obvious that this was not an Equestrian horn. The doors have been opened and a formation of Night guards entered the hall. In the middle of the formation stood a batwinged Pegasi. He was wearing clothes that have been webbed out from caught light of the eclipse. An impressive looking saddle was decorating his back in a way, that would let him use his wings without any problems. The Nocturian was looking at the Princesses with his cat like eyes. He seemed to be a little bit tense and probably stressed, but he managed to control it somehow.

“I sincerely welcome you in the magical land of Equestria.” It was Princess Luna who was speaking for she had the right to speak first during the night. “Please forgive us that we could not welcome you properly… but none of us was expecting to welcome a delegate of Nocturia on this very Night.”

“I am honored and very thankful for your Kindness Princesses of Equestria. May your reign be long, and bring fourth happiness, wealth and the most beautiful days and nights to this land and its inhabitants.” The delegate looked at Princess Celestia and bowed gracefully as he did for Luna.

“May your state in this land bring fourth gratitude, happiness, tolerance and friendship for you and every Nocturian.” Said Celestian and nod at the stallion. “You honor us with your presence delegate from beneath the mountains.”

“Equestria is truly a wonderful place Mylady… but I will not have the time to enjoy its beauty. I have been send here on the behalf of King Eridanus, the first of his name, guardian of the Underground, and the rightful ruler of Nocturia” He took a message out of his sadle by using one of his hooks. The Nocturian knelled in front of the two sisters and lifted the message with both his hooks.

“In the name of the Elements and the Magic of Friendship…” Surprisingly he raised his head and looked at the Princesses. Luna and her older sister noticed right away the great sadness within his eyes.

“We the Nocturians ask you… no we beg you for your help.”

Chapter 1

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The night’s spell was already befalling the land and its inhabitants. Doors were being closed and the lights within the buildings allowed the dark to take its place. Lullabies could be heard through slightly open windows filling the air with their sensitive and calm tone. A few ponies were still on the streets, the sound of their hooves echoing in the distance upon the paved ground of Ponyville. Some were still on their way home, others were lighting the many lanterns which were doting the entire city, while the night active ponies headed towards pubs, or the open fields where they could watch the night sky.

< Everything seems to be just fine...> Thought Twilight Sparkle who was one of the few ponies, which were still outside despite the late hour. But things tend to be deceiving from time to time. Following the main street, she was heading towards the center of Ponyville where she intended to leave a message in the Mayor’s mailbox. Lately Twilight and her friends noticed that the citizens of Ponyville were polluting the hills, fields, parks, forests and even the city itself in an outrageous way. According to Spike, her small assistant who was snoring upon her back right now, the problem started two weeks ago. To be exact it was a financial problem.

The city was not able to pay the local waste treatment facility due the lack of money. Since then the ponies, who were making sure that this beautiful place remained clean, declared, that they would continue their work only after their company would receive their late payment. First the scale of pollution was on a regular basis, but once piles of thrash started to fill the gardens things became only worse. Twilight herself did not hear anything about this problem because she was visiting her brother Shining Armor in the mystical Crystal Empire. Right away she has contacted the Princess and asked for aid.

Being the faithful student of one of the almighty rulers of Equestria does have its benefits. Princess Celestia send her the required amount of money plus a additional sum of bits for the company. Happy about this result Twilight was happily trotting towards the mayor’s house. Besides the sound of her hooves, and the surprisingly loud snores of the small baby dragon, the night itself was quiet and peaceful. Once more Princess Luna has gifted them with a glorious night. The colors were working together in perfect harmony wrapping the night in beauty only few things could match. For a moment Twilight stopped to move and lifted her head so she could enjoy the gift given to them by the Princess.

She spotted four star constellations nearly right away. The Ursa Major alongside with Ursa Minor, Virgo and the so called Taurus. If it would be her desire, the mare could simply walk out of the city to have a better view. Not far away from Ponyville there was a perfect spot she kept using for her studies. From there Twilight could have easily counted eighty seven known star constellations.

< Oh my what am I thinking? There are actually eighty eight constellations, since the Serpens is split in two different sections. First the Serpens Caput the so called snake’s head spread towards west, while Serpens Cauda, the snake’s tail, is in the east. >

The Alicorn rolled her eyes after realizing that once more, and surely not for the last time she got lost in her own thoughts. Yet the night sky was still filled with mysteries she has not discovered yet. Not to mention the fact that there were many things she still had to learn. Sadly she did not have the luxury of focusing only on one subject. A few falling starts caught the mares attention until a strange sounding squirm made her look at Spike. It seemed like he had a nightmare. Oddly enough nearly right away Twilight noticed that Spike felt suddenly warmer.

This worried her a little bit which is why she casted a spell upon him. The spell’s nature was simple: the affected individual would calm down and pain of any art would be soothed. While reading the book called “The Underestimated Side of Magic”, she found this particular spell, which was affecting the nerves in a very delicate way. It seemed like it was working on Spike for he has stopped to talk through his sleep. Twilight smiled happily and decided to not let him sleep longer outside his warm bed. The house of the Mayor was gladly not far away.

In the center of Ponyville the pollution was simply overwhelming. The smell of decaying food and other stuff she wished to not think about filled her nostrils. Quickly, she literally threw the message with the rather big bag of bits into the mailbox, desperately fighting against the urge of simply running away.

Sadly she would probably wake up her small companion… which is why she decided to endure the smell that made her eyes teary. It took a while until the mare left the highly polluted area. With great happiness she embraced a chill wind blow coming from the east. Quickly the happiness was replaced by the freezing feeling that went through her bones. Autumn was about to start soon, yet it seemed very unfamiliar to her that winds as cold as this would visit Ponyville at this time of the year. Maybe it was only a small and unintentional mistake from the weather factory in Cloudsdale? Nopony is perfect after all!

Twilight continued her was back home passing the marketplace of Ponyville. The most recognizable building, that was not so far away from this area was the confectionary shop called Sugar Cube Corners. The nearby lanterns slight lit up the various forms of this delicious looking building. Even if only small parts of the shop were jutting out from the darkness, everypony could and surely would recognize that its design was bakery-themed. Slightly licking her lips Twilight quickly passed Sugar Cube Corners hoping that her empty belly would not wake up the poor Spike.

After taking some shortcuts and enduring more of the unpleasant smells the Alicorn finally could recognize the forms of a great old tree. During the night it looked like a simple tree, but if one would get a closer look at it everypony would realize that this was not merely a tree. One of the greatest and most fascinating ways of using magic was to maintain life in a tree, while using it as a building. This discovery allowed the ponies to keep the balance between nature, and the growing pony civilization without threatening the ecosystem. A warm feeling spread through her heart once she has gazed upon her private sanctuary.

Surprisingly she realized that the lights were lit within her home. This could not be! Twilight made sure that every candle, everything connected with fire was out while she was outside.

She thought and started to run as fast as she could. But the sprint did not last long after she realized that ponies were standing at her door. Two stallions to be exact. She recognized them right away for both were guards. The strange thing was that one of them was a Night Guard while the other was a Day Guard. Her mind initialized only one possible and mostly logical conclusion. The Princesses were at her house! This could not be! She could not remember that she had any meetings planed with them! Or could it be that Spike, or ever worse Twilight herself have somehow neglect her duties!?

< No, no, no, NO! >

Panic took control of her better judgment like fire that started to spread upon dried grass.

< Relax Twilight! You have checked everything twice! There was no planned meeting with the two most important ponies in this land! They can come over whenever they wish after all! Maybe they want me to go through a trial? Maybe I have failed at my tasks!?>

Her own thoughts did not make this current situation better at all. This is why she did the only thing that seemed to be rational at this crucial moment. She took a few deep breaths and performed a trick Princess Cadance has taught her months ago. It took more breaths than usual, but gladly she managed to calm herself and the thoughts that seemed to not have an end. Gathering all the remaining courage, she decided to walk in a formal way. During the state in the Crystal Empire, she has taken lessons from many female advisors and of course Cadance herself; only if her duties allowed it.

Twilight read many books about royalty and its formal behaviors, traditions and etiquette. Sadly every word, every phrase, every chapter and every new book she has invested time into could have prepared the freshly baked Alicorn for the teachings. She tried not to giggle at the memory of her trying to balance three books on the top of her. Quickly the thoughts have been pushed aside for only a few steps were separating the mare from the library. Long before the light has lain upon the lavender fur she was spotted by Luna’s Guard. The sharp eyes of the Night Guards were praised all over Equestira maybe even beyond who knows?

“Princess Twilight Sparkle.” Spoke the grayish Unicorn guard whose chest filled with pride. “Finally you have returned.”

“Please forgive us this intrusion at this late hour, but very important matters require your attention.” The guard of the day looked tired, very tired, but he maintained his posture which laid good light upon the entire Royal Guard.
“The Princesses are expecting you. I highly recommend to not letting them wait.” What the guard truly meant with ‘them’ was uncertain, but he had all the rights to put himself into this matter.

“Absolutely.” It may have sounded better if not for Spike’s loud snore and mumbles for crystals. With the typical awkward giggle Twilight quickly entered the library, feeling the eyes of both guards on her back. Once the door closed behind her the unintentional bash woke up the grumpy sleeping dragon.

“Is it morning already?” Spike muttered through his clenched teeth and scratched his scaly belly. The sound of his claws scratching upon them easily let a shiver run down the spine.

“I am happy to say that the morning is still far away Spike. You can rest as long as you wish.” A melodically voice went through the air. Beautiful and wise was its sound, but the undeniable was the tone of authority and power behind it. Princess Celestia was sitting on a pillow as anypony else would do, yet somehow she always managed to make the most normal things look graceful. Bright and warm colors seemed to be embroidered in her long floating mane that was fascinating Twilight since her youth.

The crown upon her head was delicately reflecting the shine of the fire that was dancing in the nearby chimney. Right in front of her levitated a filled cup of tea, which was being enveloped by her magic.

“Please forgive us that we made ourselves comfortable like that Twilight.”

“Oh goodness no! There is nothing to be sorry about Princess. May I offer you something to eat?” Happy as Twilight was right now the nervousness was still following her like a shadow. If not for the wings that kept disobeying her commands Celestia might have not noticed it.

“Well you could bring me a gemstone if you would not…” Spike has been interrupted by a very loud puff. It made Celestia smile before she took a sip of the common tea. At least she did not react like Prince Blueblood if it came to such things.

“Maybe next time my dear.” The cup levitated through the air to the nearby table. A silver plate was waiting for the cup to land upon it already. “Right now we have to talk about a very important and crucial matter.”

“I agree with my dearest sister.” It was Princess Luna’s voice coming from the kitchen. Both sisters had the same aspects connected to their voices, yet on the other hand Luna’s voice tended to sound softer and rougher depending on the situation. Before the creamy blue silhouette stepped into the door, her long and floating mane, which resembled the beautiful night sky, announced her arrival. Surprisingly she was wearing a cooking skirt Twilight received as a gift from Apple Bloom.

The faintly message on it spread all over the Alicorn’s ample chest.

Right in front of her two cups of tea were floating in the air waiting to be picked up. The turquoise color was enveloping them with its slightly noticeable shine of the Princess’s magic.

“It is good to see you again Twilight.” The eyes of the Alicorn looked upon Spike who was fighting against his closing eyes. “I hope you are feeling better little Spike?”

Recently Spike went through an illness which was befalling Dragons at his age. Not dangerous for his health, but it did exhaust him so much that he remained in his bed for good two weeks. Gladly it was already over and Spike was full of energy… at least during the day.

“I am tired. Fine. But Tired…” He simply jumped off his friends back, and moved towards his bed leaving the ponies alone.

The Princess of the Night moved towards them followed by the two cups. On the way she quickly took off the skirt and it teleport back where it belonged. One of the cups landed next to Celestia’s, but surprisingly the second one remained in the air. Thinking that it was for her Twilight was about to thank the Princess for the trouble.

“I am sorry Twilight… I did not expect you to come back so fast. This one is for our honored guest.“ It did take her by surprise to hear that somepony else was in the library. The uncontrolled blink only proofed it.

“A honored guest?”

“Yes Twilight a honored guest. I think he lost himself in one of your many books. Come with me I shall present you to the delegate.”

The pure white Alicorn took her cup and continued to sip on her tea, watching how both her sister and faithful student moved towards the west wing of the library. Though they could not see it now uncertainty disturbed the beauty of her eyes. Twilight kept following her own honored guest and friend, but the curiosity that has caught her with its nets was simply overwhelming.

“Where does this delegate come from?”

“I would suggest to ask him this question personally Twilight.” A sweet smile of the Princess seemed to bright up the darkness that surrounded the world. ”As I suspected! The delegate did lose himself in a book.”

The lavender pony took her place next to Luna and right away her eyes gazed upon the individual who called himself a delegate. A batwinged Pegasi was sitting on one of her better pillows, holding a book with his sharp looking hooks. The sound of Luna’s shoes managed to separate him from the piece of literature called “The other side of the Coin”. A interesting choice that was showing that he had some good taste this she had to agree, but the fear of the sharp hooks destroying the delicate pages made her gulp in her thoughts.

The Batwing was inspecting them with his yellow cat like eyes. He seemed to be focusing on Twilight though what only made her feel unconformable. It seemed like the stallion somehow noticed the affection of his eyes upon her. For a moment he seemed to be sad, but the warm smile on his face made it melt away. Carefully the book was closed, and was placed in the right spot and even in the correct alphabetic order.

< Oh if only everypony would do that…” Twilight thought still worrying if the delegate’s hooks have damaged any books they held during her absent. Princess Luna brought the honored guest the tea she has brewed for him. By its smell it had to be raspberry flavor… her favorite one.

“Thank you very much Princess Luna.” Gently he took the cup using the hooks of the wings. It was an interesting sight for a sore eye to see somepony hold objects like that. “But you really did not have to bother about a simple messenger like me.” His voice was deep, but it had a strangely warm touch that reminded Twilight of her father.

“For me every intelligent being is an equal despite the existence of monarchy, and its influence upon our world. Besides that it was not a bothersome task. It was a nice change in fact. The life of a Princess does not give me, or my sister, enough room for hobbies… or, as you pointed it out yourself dear Delegate, time for “simple” things.”

Nearly right away the stallion smiled brightly at Luna’s respond and laughed with her about it. Twilight managed to take a quick look at his teeth. Driven by an old mythos most ponies believed, that the Princesses Night Guards were vampires who drank blood by using sharp and long fangs. The Delegate’s teeth showed no signs of fangs; in fact they were not different at all. The feeling of shame went through Twilight for letting gossip affect her better judgment.

“Where are my manners…” Quickly the stallion placed the cup at the nearest furniture (far away from any bookshelves) and moved towards Twilight. His saddle made sounds that were mixing up with the sound of his hooves that were not being hidden by the grayish fur. Only a few inches away he stopped to move and knelt right in front of the fourth Princess of Equestria.

“My name is Borealis. I am the Delegate and representative of King Eridanus, the first of his name, guardian of the Underground, and the rightful ruler of Nocturia.”

Borealis was surprisingly big for a pony or better said a Pegasi. Right now he was as big as Big Mac maybe even bigger. He was very broad and muscular as the most stallions of his age, but it seemed that the stallion in front of her was simply bigger than any others.

“Nocturia… this sounds familiar.”

“I am not surprised by it Twilight.” It was Celestia who was standing behind her. How the co ruler of Equestria managed to move silently remained a mystery. “Though we do not know much about it, Nocturia is a vast and great Kingdom that spreads beneath the surface. It is the homeland of the Batwings. I am sure you have seen some of them before.”

“Yes I did. During Nightmare Night I have seen them for the first time.”

“Long before Discord and long before Nightmare Moon…” Luna started to talk with a sad voice.”The first Nocturians visited Equestria. As you can probably imagine the sudden appearance of the strangers did cause a panic among our subjects. It turned out, that they did not intend to cause any trouble. They wished us peace and granted us a letter from the King under the Mountain. With this message the King has revealed the existence of his subjects, and with it the existence of the Kingdom he called Nocturia. Till this day I do not know why they showed signs of their existence, but the King offered us his soldiers as a sign of friendship and peace. Since then they were a part of the Night Guard, serving us and our subjects honorably. “

“I am happy to hear that my brothers and sisters represented our Kingdom properly. In the great depths and caverns of the Underground we have learned, that without Friendship nopony could survive in the foreign environment. For generations we were hiding our existence… for we had our reasons to do so.”

“You insisted to wait for Princess Twilight Sparkle Borealis. As much as I appreciated to welcome your kind among my guards… I still find it strange that your King suddenly revealed the existence of his Kingdom.” Said Luna and took her place among the other Princesses.

“Yes I have to agree that this is suspicious… but I assure you that we the Nocturians do not intend to harm anybody. The life beneath the earth is not an easy one. Open hostilities would not help us at all… it would only make things worse than they are already.”

“Mr. Borealis please tell us why you have been sent her then.” Twilight spoke these words with certain authority without any tone of demanding, but with honesty she intended to follow.

“As you wish Princess.” It seemed that he was looking for the right words, but nopony could possibly not understand in what shoes he was in now. Standing in front of the co rulers of Equestria and the ponyfication of Magic itself was surely not an easy task… especially while representing an entire Kingdom and its subjects. “For many centuries my kind was living peacefully among the local races, which have helped us to adapt to the life that was not suited for ponies. Together with the Diamond Dogs, and the many tribes of Minotaurs we have created the great Kingdom called Nocturia. It was named like that by the very first Alicorn, who has emerged from our society.”

“An Alicorn is ruling under the earth?” Asked Celestia who was not hiding her surprise. For Twilight it seemed logical that only an Alicorn could be capable of ruling. Yet thinking about it… maybe even a subject could rule who knows?

“Yes. The Nocturians saw the wisdom and strength that was given to our nation. Our allies also saw the same aspects and joined our society. Since then the blood line of the first was watching over the subjects. Great prosperity and wealth were always on our side. Our nation grew and with it the borders of the Kingdom. We were happy and lived in peace… until the day our beloved King suffered from a terrible fall.” He lost his voice and a single tear was about to run down his cheek. Quickly the delegate wiped it away with his hook. “The King fell into a very long coma… and with it the times of happiness left our society. Somebody had to take the place during the absent of the king, which is why all tribes have been summoned. The representatives of each tribe were potential, and experienced individuals who would take the Stalagmite Throne and rule over Nocturia. First of all the children of the King had the right to take their father’s place, but they were young and inexperienced. For many months the great caverns were filled with the sound of arguments, until the very day when finally the son of the King has been chosen to watch over the subjects.” Borealis closed his eyes for a moment and let out a long sigh. “Enraged by it more than the half of the representative declared openly, that they would never bow to a whelp, and threaten to separate from Nocturia. Since then our King tried to do his best to maintain order and peace. For many years the Kingdom managed to remain peaceful and more importantly whole… until unpredictable events lead to a great separation.”
His tufted ears went down as did his eyes, which seemed to no longer manage to look at the Princesses. Borealis’s hooks were holding each other with a mighty grip, while the stallion remained silent. A few times he blinked with his eyes and returned to reality.

“I am very sorry… it is not easy to speak of it.”

“Please continue. What did you mean with those events?” Asked Luna who was obviously worried about the fate of the Nocturians. Both Celestia and Twilight were sharing her feelings in that very moment, but her connection to this nation was stronger than theirs.

“My kind has forgotten the real meaning of Friendship. More than ever we need kindness, honesty, loyalty…” He placed one of his hooks on his face. “I still cannot believe that the very foundations, that have created our nation have been forgotten. Though we never showed ourselves to others we were watching. We saw that Friendship was strong among your subjects.”

“Is this the reason why you have been sent here? To ask us to help your kind to remember the true meaning of Friendship?”
Asked Twilight and came closer to the stallion. He did take a few steps back what made her ears go down.

“It was Friendship that allowed us to exist in this world… though it was a hidden existence. Without it everything we have ever accomplished will be devoured by hatred and greed. Eridanus did not waste any time after he finally woke up, and decided that we desperately required help. If not even the Magic of Friendship can protect us from open civil war… then I do not know what can protect us from it.”

The world became strangely silent. Only the sound of the fire was disturbing it with its loud cracks. Twilight was the one who was inspecting the stallion now. He was breathing very fast, and it was obvious that he was hoping that he has not used the wrong words. Personally she was not able to imagine the life without Friendship. If Borealis’s story was true, she shuddered to imagine what would happen to Equestria if one day the subjects would also forget Friendship. Celestia and Luna also were inspecting the Nocturian. It was not possible for her to see what they were thinking, for the mask they were wearing now did its purpose on a master’s level. The stallion slowly showed the signs of fear for the silence seemed not to find any end. This could not continue like that…

Twilight took a deep breath and once more she came closer to the stallion.

“Since the very day I have found Friendship myself I was thankful to Princess Celestia that she made me take out my muzzle from my books. I have found friends and with them I managed to overcome everything.”

Borealis knelt in front of her, but as much as he tried to hide it, she could see that he was shaking. The Princess placed her wing under his chin and carefully lifted it so he could look her directly in the eyes.

“Your King understands and knows what Friendship stands for. I believe that long before the first contact with your allies you all were bound to it, even if you have never seen eachother before.” She could hear how the Princesses came at her side. Both sisters were smiling at him, while they placed their wings on his shoulder.
“The Wisdom of your king and the love for his subjects is undeniable.” Said Princess Celestia. “And even if I never have met him before… I could see it in his message that beyond everything, he cares and worries for his subjects more than for anything. The bounds of Friendship do not die out so easily Borealis. I am sure that they still exist, but they are shrouded by anger that has befallen your kind.”

“It was Friendship that helped me to return on the right path… despite my deeds.” Luna’s eyes were a bit teary while she spoke these words. “I have learned that it is never too late to find Friendship. No matter if in good or bad times…”

“And I have learned that Friendship is not always easy. But there is no doubt that it is worth fighting for. If I will somehow be able to help your nation, I will do my best in the name of Friendship.”

<We will help the Nocturians with all our Heart. > Spoke the three Princesses at the same time. Beneath them Borealis’s shoulders were going up and down, both hooks hiding his face and the tears that were running down his cheek. Words would not properly express how thankful the Delegate was at this moment, but this expression was enough for the Princesses.

Since that very night Twilight learned that gossip’s nature tended to twist the truth in the most unbelievable ways. The Nocturian Delegate was the living proof that beings should not be judged by their appearance. Even if sometimes it was not an easy thing to do.

Chapter: 2

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The king’s eyes opened wide and an unnatural sound went through his breathing mask. Everything around him was blurred like some invisible force have casted a grim spell upon the world. Struggling against the cables Eridanus quickly injected a so called “Auto injector” into his veins. Reacting upon this movement a mechanism released a dose of strong medicine. The medics and physicians claimed that the extract from a root called “Colorless Vein” would boost his sickly organism. Other ingredients have been added with the purpose of supplying the body with crucial substances Eridanus did not know much about, but his sick body stopped to produce them on its own. At least that is what he has been told.

< With proper care, and more importantly with time your body will start to function properly my lord. Magic was preserving your organs during your coma. They adapted to it and now since the spell is no more the organs can’t function on their own and supply the body with vital substances. Time my lord! Time! Time and your cooperation with us IS of great importance. >

The voice of one of the most trusted and talented doctors of Nocturia went through his mind losing itself like any sound in the depths of the Underground. Slowly the injection started to fulfill its purpose. The tens muscles, that seemed to out match the strongest granite the depths of earth had to offer lost the painful tension and granted the king some rest. Gladly his sight was no longer a messed up vision of colors and shapes. Everything melted together, reshaping the blurry chaos into a proper picture of his surroundings.

Due all the excitement the King under the Mountain noticed that he was holding his breath. While the lungs were filled with the artificial air the sickly stallion inspected the place he was occupying. As suspected there was no chance of recognizing anything. Thick walls of richly engraved stones were shaping a great chamber so big, that several families would have found shelter within it. Everything was gently lit up by natural crystals, which were emitting pleasant warmth alongside the light. Spreading in various locations they served their purpose well for their light kept the relentless darkness of the Underground at bay.

Exquisite furnitures were literally ‘one’ with their environment, creating a unique touch of precision, talent, grace and beauty. Paintings of events long past told their stories on the walls, carpets of crimson color spread their wonders patterns over the floor, cups of gold decorated with gemstones of all shapes and forms reflected the light in a marvelous way, while the softest moonsilk touched the king’s body like a refreshing breeze. A chamber suited for a ruler everypony would say.

< The only refuge where a King could take off his mask… but in the end it is nothing more than a fancy prison. A place full of memories no matter if good or bad… > Thought Eridanus, recalling a memory so strong he wished he had forgotten it within the depths of the Underground with the rest of his clouded memories. For now this place would serve as his home for as long as possible. A soft sound caught his attention. Fighting against his protesting muscles, he followed the source of the sound.

The search did not take long.

At the edge of the formidably great bed lied Moonwing: his little star. It was her breathing that has lured the stallion’s eyes upon his child. Wondering how he did not feel the touch of her hook upon the chest, Eridanus noticed that he was covered in at least two thick quilts. Yet somehow the body was feeling cold. It seemed that something was happening to the sick king while the sleep has finally overtaken him. Gladly no nightmares have haunted Eridanus, but of course it was a possibility that the memory failed its task.

Still too weak to stand up Eridanus took his time for watching his youngest child. Though so many years have passed certain things remained the same. A vision of distant time appeared among the foggy curtain, which was surrounding his mind with its milky coat. He saw himself holding the few days old Moonwing between his front legs. She was inspecting him with her cute eyes, which were slightly glowing in the dark, smiling about every movement she spotted. No matter if it was a move of his wings and hooks, or some funny facial expressions every father performed for his beloved children.
Especially the happy giggles of Moonwing, while he gently nuzzled her soft small nose echoed in his mind and soul. It was the most valuable thing Eridanus claimed to own: memories of his family.

The smile disappeared from the king’s face. Even if it were only a few moments his mind managed to preserve, the mere thought of how many things the cruel fate has taken away from him filled the heart with pain words could not describe. She was no longer the small fur ball that kept slide down his leathery wings; she was a beautiful grown up mare. He did not see her grow… he did not see how she slowly learned how to use magic... he was not there in the time of need, in the time when the younglings thought they knew everything about the world. He was not there to help her overcome any problems that might have crossed her path. He was not there to listen, to advice, to support and to love her as any father should.

Only her brothers were with her, while the coma was still upon him. Eridanus’s eyes slightly open and he could feel how his heart started to beat faster.

< Brothers… >

He groaned and let his hooks grasp his paining head. This rather clumsy action not only woke up the sleeping Moonwing, but also pushed her away, making her fall ungentle on her back. Quickly she stood up:

“Father!” She cried out and came closer. Cold sweat was running down his body while some kind of conflict was unleashed in the king’s mind. Pictures, sounds, smells, feelings and emotions were pushing against the fog, ripping its milky curtain with each flash. The stallion did not feel the magic that was flowing through his body. Moonwing was calling for the doctors while she tried to hold her father, who was unnaturally tossing his body against his will. With growing fear her yells quickly became louder, and though he was not hearing them in act of desperation she also sent ultrasonic sounds, which were affected by magic so they would not simply return as echoes.

Suddenly the King under the Mountain stopped to toss around letting out a very long and relived sigh. His eyes were glowing with white light, hiding the pupils and irises with it. The breath became normal though his breathing mask fell off despite Moonwing trying to make it remain at the right place. Still sweating under the two quilts Eridanus used his wings to remove them, welcoming the pleasant temperature of his new chamber. For a moment he seemed to be lost, but the sound of many hooves returned him back into the reality.

On his own he placed his mask back where it belonged and looked upon the small group of ponies who have literally bumped into the king’s chamber. His daughter was fighting against tears while she was inspecting him, but for some reason Eridanus was feeling a little bit better.

“Child… where are your brothers? Where is Corvus? And… where is Aurelius?”

The ponies exchanged some quick looks while hoping to hide it from their king, but sadly this did not work. One of the elder doctors came closer and gently helped him to lie down on his bed. Surprisingly he felt so weak that he did not protest or fought against it.

“They are performing their duties father.” Said Moonwing who took her place back at the edge of the bed, touching his cheek with her hook. “Otherwise they would have come to visit you…” A single tear ran down her cheek as she leaned against his head. But the king was no longer among them for he has fallen asleep. The doctor saw what kind of injection the king used and gave him a different type of injection, which would limit the influence of the other medicine.

“It seems that the king’s body is regenerating faster than expected my lady. He suffered an overdose of the vein extract I am afraid. We never had a case like that before… I beg your pardon Princess.”

“Make sure that this will never happen again…” She stood up with teary eyes and was about to leave the room. While everypony cleared the way for their Princess she turned around and said: “If something will happen to my father I will make sure that any of you will disappear in the depths.”

The doctors and physicians quickly gathered around the king, trying to hide that they were not shaking in fear. The heavy door behind her closed on its own without a sound. Two strong and healthy stallions were awaiting her arrival.

“I will return to my duties on my own… make sure that any precautions about my father’s security have been made.”
The guards hit the ground with their banded hooves and separated from each other. Moonwing was aware that she has overreacted… she would have never done something like that to her subjects, but fear tends to cut deep and take the better of every living being. First she was walking, yet quickly she started to run while her sobs echoed through the caverns. The Princess under the Mountain was running as fast as she could through the darkness, fearing that she might never again look into her father’s eyes. For she had neither the courage nor the strength to tell him the truth about his sons.

Chapter 3

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“You must be exhausted after the long travel and I am sure you would like to refresh yourself Borealis.” Said Princess Celestia and helped the delegate to rise again. The stallion took out a lovely sewn handkerchief and wiped his tears away of course by using his hooks. For a moment the Princesses gave him the time to collect himself, resulting in a noticeable change in the Batwing’s body language and facial expression. Since their first eye contact Twilight noticed the terribly tens posture of his, but right now the tension was gone and great relief was written in Borealis’s cat like eyes.

“I must apologize for my very unprofessional behavior.” He hid the handkerchief into one of his pockets and smiled honestly at them. “But happiness took over my heart.”

“There is nothing to be sorry about.” Twilight smiled back and lifted her front leg. “Actually I should be the one who should apologize… for two things to be exact.”

“Oh? And what could that possibly be Mylady?”

“First of all I really feel bad that you witnessed Ponyville in such bad condition… I can assure you that this city is beautiful especially at this part of the year.”

“Oh you mean the pollution? This is a common problem beneath the earth… for years we tried to find a way of how properly maintain pollution at the lowest levels. Our numbers grow and with it the mess; quite a normal thing.” While talking he made interesting gestures with his hooks, making it hard to focus on him. “But I have been told that you managed to overcome this problem and soon everything will return to normal. Do not worry about my opinion of the city Princess. Despite the pollution I recognized its beauty right away. Equestria is truly a wonderful place.”

“You mentioned that you have to apologize for two things Twilight.” Said Celestia and put her wing on Twilight’s back. “What is the second one?”

“This I would rather tell only to Mr. Borealis Princess…”

“In that case I suggest that we will return to Canterlot.” Said Princess Luna who just finished her cup of tea. “There are still many things that require our attention… besides that my dearest sister and our honored guest should find some rest. Whatever you wish to tell to our honored guest Twilight you may tell once Celestia will start a new day.”

“I agree with you Luna.” Celestia looked upon the delegate from beneath the mountain. “There are indeed many things that we will have to discuss before taking any actions in aiding Nocturia. Some sleep would do us well especially you dear delegate. If I understood you correctly you have quite a travel behind you.”

Borealis lowered his eyes a bit before he answered.

“Indeed that is true… but only because of an unfortunate circumstance. One of our main tunnels collapsed a few days ago and we were forced to leave our homeland from a distant part of the mountains. But… of course if it will not be a problem, I would like to stay here.”

“May I ask why would you like to stay here?” Asked Twilight who could not really comprehend why anypony would like to stay in Ponyville while so many various smells were in the air.

“The answer is quite simple your grace. It’s because of the open world.” He smiled sincerely and opened his wings that were wider than she thought. “Living under the earth has its limitations… of course our caverns are enormous one could say titanic, but even them have walls. Here it is different. Everything is so wide, open, colorful and full of life! But now I want to simply go out and admire something we sadly do not have beneath the earth: the beautiful sky.” He took a deep breath and seemed to have lost himself in his thoughts until he realized it. “Oh… pardon my behavior.”

“In that case we shall grant you that wish Borealis.” All Princesses smiled at the stallion who was literally emitting happiness that have taken hold of his heart. With a quick blink of the eye Celestia glimpsed upon her sister who was a bit thrilled by Borealis’s way of speaking about the sky, which was currently under her reign. “We shall return to Canterlot and do the first steps that will provide all the necessary help for our new found friends.”

“I think I will have to part some of my duties with my secretaries and students.” Luna looked back at her older sister but she remained silence.

< It seems they have a short telepathic conversation. > Thought Twilight hoping that the Delegate would not recognize it as she did. This was hardly possible though for only Unicorns had the chance to sense such connection.

“I can assure you that my kind does not lack anything that is required to survive under the earth. What we truly lack right now is Friendship. I still can’t believe that we were foolish enough to forsake it so easily… yet power and wealth tend to easily manipulate intelligent beings.”

“As my faithful student already said Borealis: Friendship does not die out so easily. But let us leave those matters for another day.” The Princess of the Day closed her eyes and smiled warmly. “I suggest you go out and enjoy the things you asked for.”

The stallion looked out through the window, hoping to catch a glimpse of the sky. Sadly the great branches of Twilight’s home hid the sky behind its thick leafs. “With great pleasure I will attend to it your highness. Thank you for your kindness.” He looked at the other mares as well. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope that we the Nocturians will be able to repay you properly.”

“The children of the very first Guards your king have sent to us served Equestria with all their hearts and souls. It would be appropriate to help their country for their service.” Luna answered politely and even performed a slight bow to the Delegate. “We shall meet at the break of a new day.”

“I wish you a pleasant night your Highness. Once more thank you… in the name of King Eridanus and his subjects.”

Celestia also bowed and together with Luna both left the Library, flying off with their flying chariots and guards who have accompanied them. While Twilight waved at her teacher Borealis returned to the book shelves and searched for a new lecture. The mere thought of his razor sharp looking hooks made the young Princess yelp silently, returning back into her home faster than intended.

“You have a very interesting collection of books mylady.” Right now the Batwing was holding a freshly delivered version of the book called: “Hearts desires”. The title was a bit deceiving for many ponies tended to believe that it was a book only suited for adults. Of course Twilight knew that this was not the case. “Many books in your library can be found in the libraries of our Diamond Dog friends who often leave our mountain to travel across the surface.”

“I have to say I did not expect to hear that you would know books which can be found here. After all you said you were hiding your existence for generations.” This statement made the stallion chuckle quietly. Carefully he placed the book where it belonged and turned around to the lavender mare.

“You are a good listener. Yes we were trying to hide our existence for a time words cannot really describe properly. As I already said we had and still have reasons to do so… but the current situation is beyond our strength. King Eridanus decided that only with help of the inhabitants of the surface we can overcome the problems that blighted the way of our life.” The stallion used his hook to scratch his chin. “But even if we tried to hide from the outside world we were following it eagerly. Thanks to our allies we managed to not step back with technology, medicine and other subjects. Of course… we developed things on our own, but it is always wise to be eager to learn more.”

“Your society must be truly interesting Mr. Borealis.” Twilight giggled and realized that through shear listening she forgot something. “Oh… I also would like to apologize for the second point I did not mention yet.”

“Before you will continue your grace allow me to guess what you are about to say.” He cleared his throat and looked directly into her eyes. “It is about our appearances or am I mistaken Princess?”

His words did take her by surprise. While she was desperately looking for words her ears went down nearly automatically. The Batwing smiled and let out a happy laugh.

“Oh there is nothing to be sorry about Incarnation of Magic. I am aware of how my kind looks like, but I have to say that the ponies of the surface have a very interesting imagination.” It seemed like he was not angry at all about the rumors and stories of his brethren.

“I hope that on your way here nopony bothered you with it…”

“If ponies like me would get affected by such talk mylady, do you really think we would consider asking your country for help? Or even better to send our soldiers to serve Equestria? It would have been a very fragile alliance don’t you agree?”

“I assume it might have caused some unwanted problems between our countries. Vampire ponies are very popular characters of stories older ponies tended to tell the children at the night.”

“In that case we should consider ourselves lucky that we received our own fictional stories that entertain others.” Borealis corrected something on his saddle while speaking out those words. “Actually we do also have our own stories we tend to tell our youth about the so called surface dwellers.” He laughed and closed his eyes for a moment. “It seems that we are not as different from each other as I thought.”

“A longer time ago I have learned to not judge other by their appearance… but once I saw you for a moment I forgot that lesson.”

“Outside appearance is a poor substitute for inner worth. My mother always told me that while I was still a small colt and until this day I keep her words in my heart.” For a moment silence has befallen the room, but as fast as it came as fast it ended. “Actually some refreshing would be nice…”

“We have a spa in the city, but I am afraid that it is closed for quite a while now.” Twilight lifted her wing and pointed at the door on the other side of the kitchen. “Of course you are welcome to use my bathroom… my tube might be a little bit too small for you though Mr. Borealis”

“Please your grace…” He suddenly shivered without any control. The stallion also scratched his neck a bit. “Do not use titles on me. They make my fur crawl.” Twilight’s eyebrow went up on its own after hearing this statement. Since her youth she was in touch with royalty that was literally overflowing Canterlot. Borealis’s way of speaking, dressing and even moving showed her right away that he had to be a high born among his kind. Yet she has never witness that a royal would ask to not use any titles on him or her.

“As you wish Borealis, but in that case you will have to call me Twilight.” Now it was her who took him by surprise. It seemed like he did not find any proper words to reply with, which is why he simply bowed in front of her and move towards the bathroom. Before he passed next to her she heard his answer:

“Of course your... Twilight.”

Smiling Twilight made sure that the poor Spike, who is often forgotten in that kind of conversations, was feeling well. As suspected her little helping claw was peacefully snoring in his basket. Carefully she placed her wing on his scaly forehead, but gladly he had no high temperature yet signs of weakness were still visible through the paler color of his scales. Quietly the Princess gave him a good night kiss and tried to make no sounds that would wake up her assistant. Sadly the wooden floor did not intend to play around with it, but once a dragon was asleep it was not so easy to wake him up again.

While the Delegate was enjoying his bath the lavender mare killed the time with cleaning up the mess the Alicorns left behind. She nearly had a heart attack after she saw in what state her sink was after Luna’s attempts of making tea for the Delegate and her sister. Thankfully through the kind help of magic this problem was solved nearly instantly, leaving the sink in a perfect state. Twilight also cleaned the cups, prepared some fruit cakes and even found time to sort the books in the west wing of her library. The heavy sound of Borealis’s hooves went through the air while Twilight placed the fruit cakes on the table.

Surprisingly the Nocturian took off his heavy saddle and was wearing comfortably looking attire that was probably hidden under the wealthy saddle. Borealis had a typical Pegasus like body build that would allow him to remain easier in the air, but his sheer size made it hard to believe that his wings, though impressively large, would manage to hold him in the air. The mane was still wet from the bath, making his hair reflect the delicate light of the moon and the nearby candles in a pretty way.Since Twilight met him a bizarre yet interesting smell was filling the air of her home. First she thought that the stain of pollution somehow affected her poor nostrils, but it quickly turned out that it was a smell from underneath. Hard to describe what it could be it was something unusual and very pleasant to smell.

“Please make yourself comfortable.” Said Twilight and pointed at the nearby chair with her downy wing. For a moment the wing refused to follow her will and it started to act like it would have a mind on its own. Twilight quickly turned red for she could feel the cat like eyes on her skin. “I-I am sorry…” She chuckled nervously and tried to somehow retake control over the rebellious wing that was acting like a small child. The young mare was so busy with it that she did not notice that Borealis came closer until she felt his hook upon the wing. First she expected that the strong and sharp looking hooks would harm her, but he grabbed her gently and with great care. Without saying a word the stallion pushed his hooks into the wing on two spots and moved it left then up and right. A strange feeling went through her new parts of the body and suddenly the wing relaxed and was under her control. The batwing let go off her and took some respectful steps back. For a moment Twilight was fully focusing on the wing that merely seconds ago threatened to slap everypony and everything in its reach.

“This is a quite common problem among ponies who were not born with wings yet received them by the will of the Alicorns.” Borealis took his seat and wrapped his own wings around himself, closing his hook like a clasp that was holding a cloak. “But this problem will pass with time.”

“Thank you Borealis. May I ask what you exactly did right there? It feels strange I have to say that.”

For a moment the Batwing was hesitating with the answer. His hooks made a rough scratching sound while they rubbed each other, making cold shivers run down her spine.

“It is something similar to acupuncture. I directly affected the main nerves of your wing, relaxing its tense muscles which lead to these uncontrollable movements. T-this is a method used on small children… at least from where I come from.”

“Well I will try to remember it! It is very useful.” Playfully she swung the wing a few times and let it go back on its place. “I do know several things about the Pegasi but rarely did I find anything about about their small adorable treasures. Once I will find the time for it I will learn more about this matter.”

“Your eagerness to learn is very refreshing your Gra…” He mumbled something under his nose and chuckled. “I mean Twilight. My feeling is telling me that you will be a great leader and teacher likewise.”

For quite a while the two ponies lost themselves in a very nice and rather intellectual chat. The time passed quickly, quicker than both of them expected. In the end the Delegate looked through the window and decided to go out for a short night stroll. The freshly backed Princess offered to accompany him, hoping that she would manage to keep him far away from the very polluted area of Ponyville. The door of the Library closed on its own thanks to her spell and she was about to take the first step forward until she saw that Borealis opened his wings.

< Oh great… he wants to stroll the Pegasus way. > She thought and let out a dampen sigh in her mind. It seemed like that she did not manage to hide her feelings from him. The stallion smiled sincerely and said:

“If I will see that you are in trouble I will lend you a wing Twilight.” And before she could reply he threw himself into the air with one might swing of his wings. The strong wind ruffled her mane a bit and with a sigh (which she did not hide this time) she followed her guest with far weaker swings. Patiently the batwinged Pegasus awaited her arrival.

“I see that your wings do not posses enough strength to remain in the air for a longer time.” He looked to the east and moved his tufted ears towards that direction. “A strong wind is on its way Twilight. Use its power to glide through the air.”

Before he ended his sentence the announced wind arrived and lifted both ponies with its blow. Soon they reached the clouds and with the help of the messenger Twilight safely landed on one of them. With great grace Borealis landed next to her, spreading vapor like cloud pigments through the air. Then he closed his eyes and let the wind play with his mane. His wings also embraced it and for a moment he emitted such strong relief, joy and excitement that it also affected Twilight in a pleasant way.

After the wind passed by Borealis took a deep breath, opened his eyes and went to the edge of the rather huge cloud. From here they had a lovely view at the land. In the far distance Canterlot was jutting behind the mountains, showing only parts of its beauty and glory. Ponyville seemed to be made out blocks while the huge Apple Acres transported the sweet scent of apples within the wind. In all everything looked like a beautiful painting that has been created by a skilled artist and because of that pride filled Twilights chest.

“It seems like a dream… a beautiful dream I do not wish to wake up from.” The stallion looked up and let out a gasp once his eyes laid on the creation of the Princess of the Night. As always the sight of the night sky made Twilight smile brightly for in this very night Luna has blessed her subjects with a beautiful sky. She managed to free herself from the charms of the night and glimpsed at the stallion who seemed to have been caught with its net quite easily. His cat like eyes glowed slightly in this darker environment, slightly illuminating the contours of his face. “Yes this must be a dream.”

“I assure you that this is not a dream. Or do you want me to poke you?” He managed to let go off the sky and grinned at his small companion.

“This will not be necessary. I have to say that I deeply envy you and your subjects Twilight Sparkle.”

“You know Borealis I am sure that soon I will tell you the same words once I will see the wonders of your homeland.”

“I hope that you will not be disappointed.” Once more he closed his eyes and started to hum a song while slightly moving his left hook like a conductor. In that very moment Twilight could feel magic filling the air. She gasped for it started to spread, embracing her body with a pleasant warm aura. The wind seemed to suddenly change its course and returned to them, filling their nostrils with the sweet scent of apples, local flowers and trees. In that very moment Borealis took a deep breath and started to sing with his deep yet warmth spreading voice:

“Vi dýr ennui nu Anor. Ned echuir lyth eriar. I yrn ethuiwar, nin nurar. Ar aew verin linnar.“

For the very first time the young lavender mare heard this language… and yet somehow she understood it like she would have learned it since her childhood. Something made her look down at the wonderful landscape of her homeland and she witnessed something wonderful yet surprising at the same time. Fireflies started to fly towards their location. Their numbers were hundreds maybe thousands… she was not sure.

“Ennas dû alfanui. A ferin 'irith gerir. I elenath, viriath fain, Vi finnel gelfib dîn.”

The wind brought many leafs with it of different size, forms and colors. It followed the movement of Borealis’s hook swirling the caught leafs in a majestic way.

“Sí na veth bâden im derel. Vi dúath dofn tummen. Atham meraid velig a tynd, Athan eryd bain beraidh”

The fireflies finally reached the spectacle and joined the dance of the flying leafs and their colors. With great fascination Twilight watched what Borealis has somehow performed right in front of her. Deep in her heart she was sure that she was not the only one who was watching this pretty act and she was glad that she would not be the only one to tell the story about it. The Delegate opened his eyes and looked at her while he continued to sing in this ancient sounding language.

“Or 'waith bain nura Anor. A panlû elin cuinar. Ú-pedithon 'i-aur gwann'…”

His glowing eyes started to lose its intensity and he stopped to move his hook. The winds seemed to woke up from the spell that has taken control of them and returned to its calculated course. The fireflies returned to the ground, followed closely by leafs that slightly decorated the night with their colors and forms. Borealis lifted his head and watched the night sky while he ended the song with its last words.

“Egor nai îl 'namarië“ He let out a relaxed sigh and lost himself in the creation of Princess Luna.

“What was that?” Princess Sparkled asked with a dampen voice.

“Something our kind will gladly share once the right time has come.”

They spend another hour outside of the library, but the noticeable exhaustion took over the Batwing. Twilight offered him to go find some rest yet he only shook his head and said.

“I would like to sleep here. The last time I slept on a cloud was so, so many years ago.”

“Wait… back in the library you said that your kind was hiding its existence for a very long time. And now you say that you once slept outside of your homeland?” This did sound suspicious as the entire mystery about the Nocturians hiding their existence for so long. Borealis only laughed and smiled brightly at her.

“Oh yes I’ve once slept outside of my homeland. Young colts tend to be disobedient from time to time. Of course I received a solid punishment once my parents found it out.” He laughed again and looked back at the night sky.

< Something is telling me that his kind and his homeland will not disappoint me at all. >

She left him on the cloud and returned to her home and the warm bed that was awaiting her return.

Chapter 4

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Borealis followed the clumsy movements of the violet mare that was slowly melting together with the night in the far distance. First he was actually considering to fly after her and make sure that the Princess would not suffer from a fall or perhaps something worse. Once he was sure that she vanished in her house the batwing stretched his wings that were still aching from the travel. The stallion’s eyes were literally feasting upon the sight of the upside world, following each movement of no matter what. His ears listened to the slight whispers of the winds and other sounds it managed to bring from near and far.

Although everything was covered in the delicate gown of the night, and the most inhabitants were already in the land of dreams, everywhere one could find events and activities during the reign of the night. From above Borealis had a great view at the surrounding area. Despite the darkness he was able to see everything without any problems because the eyes of his kind were quite adaptive. For some reason the stallion hoped not to find darkness in the wide open world, but it seemed like it was a companion that could be found everywhere.

< Our worlds are so different and yet there are things they share with one another. >

Animals were quietly moving through the grass or flying in the air in their search for food, hoping that they would not end up being food for the relentless predators. They were merely shadows that tried to remain unseen to the world. Far more fascinating and beautiful acts were within the local flora. The batwing witnessed that certain plants were showing themselves only if the moon touched them gently with its light.

The petals of the lovely flowers, which names he sadly did not know, were catching the light of the moon making them look like they were made only out its light. Bugs of all shapes and forms were attracted by the faint glow that cut through the dark. Even the night active animals seemed to be allured by it, but unlike the bugs that had a symbiotic pact with the plant, the animals ate the flowers to Borealis’s great disappointment.

According to the many books he has studied during his youth the night was supposed to be very silent yet his tufted ears were proving that the authors of the books were either wrong or not blessed with the sharp senses of the batwings. The wind did not only gently touch his cheeks with is subtle touch but also brought sounds that lost their power with each league, turning them into silent whispers. There were sounds Borealis found familiar yet noises sounded different in the great depths of his homeland. Here they were merely sighs that have been ripped apart by other sounds and the wind itself.

There were various sounds the stallion could not recognize despite all the effort he put into identifying them. The very mass of sounds scattered in the wind were simply overwhelming and often not making any sense. He could hear the remnants of the thundering sounds of waterfalls mixing up with a sound that seemed to be made out of three other sounds. From time to time the wind was kind enough to bring full sounds, which could only mean that its very source was not so far away from his own location.
Once Borealis recognized the sound of mating which is why he quickly moved his ears slightly away, giving the probably hidden couple their privacy while condemning himself with hot cheeks and inappropriate thoughts. In that very moment the sounds have been literally pushed aside by a source that did not belong to the part of this world. It was the second natural way of communicating of the Batwings: Echolocation.

Unlike the bats which use the calls to listen to echo of nearby objects Borealis’s race is not only able to use the echolocation to communicate with their kind but also use it as a weapon if circumstances would demand it. While his ears tried to determine the location of the individual that was sending the sounds the stallion also struggled to make out sense of the message. Due the other sounds hidden in the wind it was nearly impossible to understand what the other Batwing wanted from him.

It was mere luck that he managed to find the location of his messenger. Borealis took a deep breath and tried to measure the power of his voice which would fight against the winds of Equestria. He waited for the right moment and open his mouth. If somepony would have watched him now it would look like he let out a very long and unusually looking yawn. His prediction turned out to be correct for the sound he has unleashed simply overwhelmed the chaotic sounds which were trapped in the wind.

With certain amount of pride he made himself comfortable and simply waited for the things to come. For his message was simple in its nature but it was also an order.

Come.

The Delegate of Nocturia did not wait long. In the distance one could see shapes dashing through the sky. Like shadows they swept over a small group of clouds slightly changing their position while passing by. Soft sounds of their wings filled the air and announced their coming long before their shapes became clear for eyes. Two Batwings were directly flying towards Borealis with great speed and balance while maintaining grace that would have shamed even the best dancers. Two heartbeats later the two Pegasi were maintaining their flight in front of the Delegate and bowed traditionally showing him the respect he deserved.

“Why have you called after me?” Asked Borealis and pointed at the nearby clouds. The Pegasi took the clouds that were fitting their size and landed on them gently. Though they were wearing armor it barely made any sound and while they wings were about to take their place the armor’s runes reflected the shine of the moon in the most gorgeous way. The ponies who came to him were mares which have recently reached the blossom of their marehood. Their armor was not taking any tool on their beauty. In fact it enhanced each well shaped curve and form of their body like it would actually be part of one being. While it was always a nice sight for an sore eye to look upon the twins the light of the moon made them look like beings that were not from this world.

“Mylord.” The elder twin smiled at him prettily and allowed herself to take of her helmet. Right away the hair was caught by the wind and she chuckled happily about it. “Please forgive me and my sister that we left our hideout… but we simply could not stay in one place and let the chance of a life time pass us by.”

“We made sure that nopony would see us mylord. Before we went out to seek you my dear sister called for a meeting with the others.” The younger twin followed the example of her older sister and also took her helmet off. Her hair was not as long but it had a very interesting shine that nearly instantly lured one’s eyes upon it. Diamond powder was truly a great innovation of the Diamond Dogs.

“Our entire group agreed that none of us will ever have a chance to witness this world again. Which is why we dared to come to your grace and ask for your permission to experience the beauties upside world as long as possible.” She smiled honestly and warmly. For a moment Borealis remained silent but soon he smiled back at the mares and spread his wings fully. He felt the nice and warm wind coming from the east and enjoyed its touch upon his leathery weave. The younger mare let out a slight gasp at view of his wings and tried to hide her slightly purple cheeks.

“I understand your feelings very well.” He took a few steps back and winked at the ladies with both his hooks. They understood the message and without using their wings the twins landed in front of him exactly in the same moment. Borealis turned around and offered his wings for them. Smiling the mares placed their wings upon his and he led them to the other end of the cloud where they could look upon the magical land of Equestria.

Their gasps were not surprising him actually they only made him grin brighter.

“Everything is running according to the plan… for now. Tomorrow we will hopefully be able to be on our way back to Nocturia. Go back to the camp and let the others know that you have my permission to explore the beauty of this world.”

The girls cheered quietly and as usual they both made dance like moves like they would be one being. “Fly with my blessings and do not do anything that might cause trouble to us and the subjects of this land.”

“Thank you mylord!” The twins literally yelled at him making his eardrums vibrate unpleasantly.

“Are you ready?” He asked and did not await any answer. Borealis performed a mighty swing which the mares knew by now. The power behind it and the quick reaction of their wings threw the girls into the air. Once more the Pegasi became one with their element.

“One more thing!” The voice of the Delegate echoed through the air. “Call me Mylord one more time and I will have to punish you!”
The mares chuckled at him and made some impressive looking acrobatic moves before they departed. Before they departed the stallion was able to catch up one sentence before they were out of reach.

“I am sure you would like him to spank you.” Said the elder sister to her twin who undoubtedly turned purple on her face before she smacked her sister’s back with her wing. The Delegate only shook his head and humming a song his mother once sung for him he fell asleep.

And after so many years he did not dream of the things that were haunting his homeland.

Chapter 5

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Borealis did not sleep long though his still clouded mind made him think that hours have passed since he fell into sleep. The cloud beneath his body felt nice and comfortable. It was tempting to simply remain on its soft surface yet once the thought of his mission cut through the fog of his mind he could not fall asleep again.

The reign of the night was not over but in few hours the moon would disappear behind the horizon and make place for the sun. Mere thought of the sun and its warm shine made Borealis shiver. Quickly he wrapped himself with chunks of the cloud which turned out to be an great protection against the cold winds. Compared to the winds of the Underground it was nothing but the short stay in the magical land of Equestria did have some effect on him. For months the stallion did not feel save and peaceful as now but it saddened him that his brethren were not sharing this experience with him.

His tufted ears were catching various sounds which were mixing up in the wind but one particular sound caught his attention. It was humming. Somepony was humming a song not so far away from him. Slowly the stallion got up making the cloud split in small parts which disappeared like vapor. His mane was immediately caught by the winds soft grasp but it only end up ruffling his grey hair. Blinded by his own hair Borealis cursed silently and quickly grabbed it with his hooks. It did not take long and he found the source of the humming. Not so far away from his own location was a mare who seemed to be busy with something. Borealis realized right away that she was not wearing anything. Her clothes were properly stacked next to her. Unlike the two twin sisters she was not wearing armor but a lovely dress made out of the softest cloth of the Underground.

As unlikely it may sound it was an creation of the sturdy Minotaurs who found a way of combining caught light with silk. The result was often breath taking for each tailor could create cloths that were always original. Copies were rarely found or better said created for the possibilities given to the tailor seemed nearly endless. Her dress had the color of purest silver which seemed to play along perfectly with the shine of the moon. Runes were decorating every inch of the dress. On the very first look one could see that the colors within the runes were moving. They reminded him of slowly flowing rivers if somepony would ask his opinion. It was quite hypnotizing once the eye was caught this unusual sight but as much craftsmanship and love were put into the dress... the eye would quickly find a new distraction.

The very distraction would be the wearer of the dress. Her fur was creamy blue although it was lighter than of Princess Luna. It was playing along perfectly with the colors and affections of the attire. Her hair had a very delicate touch of silver mixed up with the wonderful shine of the moon itself. Although right now nopony would be able to see it she had beautiful emerald cat like eyes.

They were not very rare among Borealis's kind but for him this eyes were very special. Quietly he came closer to the mare who was still unaware of him being awake. The soft ground of the cloud allowed him to move quietly and even the wind was on his side. Once he was close enough he recognized the song which turned out to be a lullaby. Borealis smiled and touched her Cutiemark with his hook.

Instantly the humming ended and a shiver went through her body. Slowly and passionate he moved his hook towards her neck. The mare let out soft moans and turned her head to him after she felt the gentle embrace of his hook. Their eyes met and once more and not for the last time both lost each other in them. She placed her own hook on his and lead it to her cheek. With closed eyes she leaned forward and kissed Borealis. The time seemed to have stopped for a while and all the problems of this world and the world beneath them faded away. Sadly everything would come to an end eventually and the enchantment of this moment was blown away by the cold winds.

Their lips separated from each other with noticeable hesitation. The stallion pulled her closer to himself and was about to cover her body with his wings until he noticed what she was doing before he interrupted her. It seemed that she was carving something out of a small wooden block. Quickly she hid it from him though and leaned her head against his.

"Uh uh uh my dear." She said with hush tone. He felt her lips on his cheek. "It is not ready yet."

"I hope that I did not scare you?" Borealis smiled happily and nuzzled her. Purple blush appeared on her cheeks what made her even more beautiful. She was about to say something but suddenly her ears went up and quickly she released herself of his wings. It happened so fast and so unexpected that it felt like a hit in the face.

"What's the matter Lyria?" The Delegate of Nocturia could handle many situations but for this one he was simply not prepared. The mare who has stolen his heart just rejected him.

"Somepony could see us Borealis..." She was not looking at him while answering this question. Nervously she was holding both hooks together hiding her body underneath them. Right away he understood what was bothering her. Borealis was born in an wealthy and influential family while Lyria was a mare that was considered a simple commoner. A commoner who managed to claw her way up to the Delegates of Nocturia. Despite all the effort, time and love she put into her work she often was a victim of high born individuals. They met ten years ago on a mission that lead them to the labyrinths of the Minotaurs.

Since that day they were working together and often they stopped unnecessary violence and bloodshed with their combined powers. Eventually they both fell in love... but they were hiding it on the behalf of Celia. She loved him this was sure but she was afraid that the society would not accept their relationship. Also she has dedicated her life for Nocturia.. Lyria feared that this relation could threat the investment of her life and the sacrifice of her parents for her only daughter. Deep in his heart he understood her fears better than anypony else.

Borealis took a deep breath and came closer to her. He placed his hook under her chin and gently lifted it up. Again their eyes met but this time he could see signs of fear and frustration instead of passion and love.

"Lyria let us end this charade once and for all. " He helped her to stand up and touched her cheek. Despite her fears she did welcome his gentle affections. "We know each other for a very long time now. I understand..."

"Borealis..." She tried to say something but his free hook laid down on her lips.

"Please do not interrupt me. I was thinking for a very long time about us... and our duty." Though she was a little bit annoyed she did keep listening to him. "There is nothing I would not do for you. I would be willing to give up my heritage without an hesitation if my family would be against our love. I would even give up being an Delegate."

Once she heard that he could see how shocked she was about his statement. For she has learned long ago to see if he was lying or not.

"We both love our duty my dear but my love for you is greater than this." He grabbed her hooks with his own. It felt nice to feel her embrace right now even though she was shivering. "I have enough of this secrecy Lyria... please let us stop this and let the world know that we love each other."

She sighed and leaned her head against his. "But what about your family? I know that they do not like me... but family is the most important thing in this world. And I do know that your parents would do anything for you." Borealis let out a short yet very sad chuckle.

"Since I've taken the burden of being the Delegate of our nation I have lost any contact with my parents. The last time I've heard of them was through an sealed letter:

< We will welcome you back if you will leave that mare. > In truth the message was far worse but he kept the details for himself. Just knowing how long his family thought of the commoners was disgusting him.

"I will not allow that my father will rule over my destiny and my heart. Also..." Their eyes met again.

"I am aware of it that certain letters have been send to you. And I do know the content of them."

The way she look at him right now made him believe that she was looking at an headless stallion. He might lose his head actually if he would use the wrong words now. She hated it when he looked over her bags but once he found about the letters he had to do it. For her sake.

"You were being threaten and blackmailed by some individuals whose names I will not mention now. I know them... and I know their connections and wealth. But please be assured that they cannot threat you in any way. They are simply jealous of your successes and most importantly your talents."

Lyria relaxed a little bit he could feel it through his hooks. Slight signs of blush covered her cheeks though in the night the most ponies would not have noticed it. Her front leg found its way to his chest and remained at his heart. Right now Celia could feel the heart that was beating only for her... and Nocturia.

"As I already said I was thinking about this dilemma for quite a while. I have come to an conclusion! Let's assume, theoretically speaking. "He quickly pointed it out after her grip tightened. "If you would lose your status I would be still able to take you under my wings as my partner. I would stand against any accusations thrown at you and vouch that I do not know a more devoted daughter of Nocturia in our Kingdom. This would make you virtually immune to the grasp of the spoiled brats who were blackmailing you."

For a moment Lyria was processing what she just heard. A vouch among the Nocturian community was something of great importance among the tribes. Most importantly it also showed unquestionable trust towards an individual below the earth. Trust is never easily acquired especially in this dark times but gladly it did not become an icon of long passed age of prosperity.

Her lips trembled and her ears went down after realizing how much trust he put into her.

"T-this could really work..." It sounded like a whisper of a distant wind even if Lyria was standing in front of him. Borealis realized that she was at the verge of tears and gently he nuzzled her.

"What? Lyria... Lyrii what?" He often talked liked that to her when he found her crying. She always tried to hide her tears away from the world and hid in places where she hoped to not be found. Yet he knew her very well and nearly always found her in pretty hideouts. The mare grew used to his company in this moments and this very words eventually made her fall for him.

"Please do not cry." Though her eyes were already teary she smiled at him happily and pressed herself against him. The weave of his leathery wings embraced her and pleasant warmth filled her heart. For a while he let her catch her breath and calm herself while he granted her the feeling of safety and also providing protecting from the cold autumn winds.

"I am such a stupid cow." Lyria broke the silence and wiped away her tears before they would stain his attire. She actually corrected some creases she noticed while she continued. "I should have thought of this right away... but fear blinded my thoughts nearly instantly. What kind of an Delegate am I if I cannot maintain control over my own feelings?"

"Well we all have such moments of weakness. After all we are simple subjects. Fallible and yet capable of great things. I still remember the time when you were facing the Minotaur guards demanding to be let in into the labyrinth. The poor lads did not know about our arrival and were simply doing their duty. I've seen many Minotaurs in my life but these two were mountains compared to their brethren. And a small mare opposed them without any fear while I was sweating and their mere sight."

Borealis felt how she pressed herself even closer to him. His wings and body reacted quicker than him what surely was noticed by the mare.

"You were the one who gave me the courage to face everything." As simple as this message was it made his chest fill with pride while in his heart he felt an eruption of feelings.

"Please forgive me that I did not tell you about the letters..."

The mere thought of the various ponies and diamond dogs who blackmailed her only because they loved each other filled his mind with anger. But the anger was quickly pushed away by Lyria's aura and her affections towards him. He leaned his head against her hair and silently he sniffed it. Her perfume had a quite alluring scent but on the other hand it reminded him of his homeland.

"I need you Lyria. I need you now, I will need you tomorrow and I will always need you for the rest of my li..." He did not end the sentence for Lyria kissed him. He was actually surprised first. His wide open eyes were the best evidence for that but as fast as it came as fast it faded away. The stallion closed his eyes and tasted his beloved until their lips separated from each other. Both were quietly gasping for air. Small clouds of vapor vanished into the night while the two bat ponies were still feeling their beloved taste on their tongues.

"Oh by the way Borealis..."

Before he could ask he felt a terrible pain coming from his ribs. She hit his ribs with her hoof!

"If you will ever again look through my bags I swear next time I will aim lower."

Her kick was strong enough to press out the entire air out of his lungs. Though it did happen several times to him he always forgot about this painful detail. A stallion should always keep his hooves away from a mare's bag but certain circumstances forced him to do so.

"Yes milady..." Was the only thing he managed to say after new air filled his lungs.

His beloved looked annoyed at him what only made him laugh quietly. She also joined him their melodically laughter filled the air until, without any warning, she pounced him. Like small children they were rolling on the surface of the cloud, reshaping it here and there. Eventually the game ended and Lyria was the one who was on the top. Playfully she pressed him against the ground.

"Do you surrender milord?"

"Do I have a choice in this matter?" She only smiled happily at him and with her hooks she removed some fragments of the cloud, which were strong enough to not vaporize, out of her and his mane. Silence has befallen them and the world itself it seemed to him because they got lost in their eyes again. The frustration was gone as was the fear he has seen moments ago and now happiness took its place. But Borealis noticed something else as well in her pretty eyes. It was desire.

While they were rolling around some of his buttons went open. Lyria was inspecting this places properly and soon she started to open his attire with slow yet elegant moves of her hooks. The stallion did not stop her nor had he the intention to do so.

"The night is still not over yet... and it has been a while my dear Delegate." Her calm voice had a very strong effect on his body and her eyes simply gave him the rest.

"What if somepony will see us hmm?"

"Then they will see a mare and a stallion who love each other." Lyria did look a little bit shy while she answered him but signs of confidence and happiness were written in her body language. Her cheek had a pretty dark purple tone what only increased her affliction upon him. Gently he performed a roll and looked at his heart with love written in his eyes. Lyria's chest was moving up and down quickly while she investigated the stallion who seemed to be bathing in the shine of the moon. Borealis leaned forward and only centimeters were separating their lips from each other. Both of them could feel their beloved warm breath on their skin.

"Amin mela lle." It meant I love you in the tongue of the Nocturians. A slight gasp went out of her and it seemed that she also stopped to breath. But quickly she regained control over herself. That was the Celia he knew and loved.

"Mela en' coiamin." His heart made a very strong beat for she has just called him the love of her life. Their bodies felt like they were on fire while their lips and tongues found each other and only the moon was the witness of the passion that found place on the cloud that night.

Chapter 6

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Twilight woke up from her dreamless dream. The tense feeling in her muscles and wings started to fade away while her eyes slowly adapted to the light. As usual she woke up early and checked her daily schedule but to her big surprise she did not prepare any schedule. Considering the fact that she has witnessed something quite unusual Twilight managed to push aside her hurt scholar pride. Right away she recalled the song Borealis was singing back at the cloud and how the air itself started to pulse with magic.

< What was that? >

< Something my kind will gladly share once the right time has come. >

The princess let out a slight sigh and tried to find an answer for her question yet her mind did not find any logical solution. Borealis was a Batwing yet somehow he managed to use magic right in front of her. Could it be that he was reciting words that had inborn magic in them? Quite an interesting thought yet as interesting it was as absurd it was in the same time. Twilight stretched her bones and wings and looked through the window. As expected the cloud she was looking for was gone. Probably due to the wind provided by the Pegasi.

"Mornin'... " The mare turned around and saw her small friend lying in his basket. Spike was inspecting her with his typical: "Why are you already up Twi?" look while scratching his shoulder. The small dragon looked like he could use some more sleep.

"Good morning Spike." She came closer to him and gently nuzzled his cheek. "Go back to sleep. This is the best medicine you can get now."

"A medicine I will gladly take..." He yawned and turned his back to her. His tail nearly slapped Twilight in the face but since it was not the first time it happened. She simply dodged it. Smiling and slightly shaking her head Twilight descended into the lower part of her library. Her wings barely made any sound and spared the poor Spike of hearing her hooves on the wooden floor. With unexpected grace she landed on the carpet and even performed a playful pirouette.

< This will be a very important day for Equestria. > Thought Twilight and went into the kitchen to fetch some snacks out of her fridge. < While Princess Luna's guards are known throughout the land we did not know much about them. The strange thing is though that her guards did not know much about their kind as well... >

It was also strange that she never thought about the lack of information about the Batwings. But while thinking about it she realized that she rarely had contact with the Night Guards. There was much to be learn from the Nocturians that was sure. And she intended to learn and understand them as good as possible. First she would try to learn the language Borealis used last night. It sounded old and it also had a very interesting and elegant tone which affected her mind. Listening to his voice was a very refreshing experience, but on the other hand Twilight also realized that wisdom was hidden behind the very words of Nocturian tongue.

For now her lust for wisdom had to wait for on this day there would be a special meeting with the two royal sisters and other important individuals of Canterlot. Of course she would also participate in this meeting along with her friends.

< I'll have to gather them quickly though... at least I do not have to worry about the preparations in the castle. I am sure Princess Celestia would take care of all the necessary precautions. >

Once she was done with her breakfast and the dishes Twilight quickly left her home and started her search for her best friends. What she actually forgot was the stench of pollution outside of her library and nearly right away her eyes were filled with tears. As fast as possible she left the biggest polluted area and started her search for the girls. Gladly due to the pollution problem it was an easy task to find them for they have safely barricaded themselves in their homes.
As expected the girls left their *sanctuaries* quite reluctantly. After a short talk they decided to go to the Apple Acres which has been gladly spared from the pollution. Apple Jack was quite surprised to see her friends visiting her unannounced which is why she was a little bit upset and annoyed that she did not prepare anything for them.

"As much as I would enjoy to eat some of your delicious apple pies... there are far more important matters that we have to discuss." Said Twilight and sat down on the nearby hay stack.

"Oh my... this sounds very important." It was surprising to hear Fluttershy speak first but it has not been noticed by the others it seemed. "Did something bad happen?"
"Something special happened last night..." Twilight has been interrupted by giggling of her friends and right away she realized what she just said. Annoyed she huffed and ignored the thoughts of the girls. "Short after Princess Celestia lowered the sun and Princess Luna was about to relief her sister of her duty a guard suddenly ran into the throne room..."

And so Twilight quickly yet very accurate summarized the events of the last night. The mares were listening to her voice like they would be under a spell and did not interrupt her even once. Something worth remembering.

"The Nocturians asked us for help. Sadly I do not know much more... Borealis told me that he would reveal everything in Canterlot. Princess Celestia asked me to assemble you because we also should participated in this historical meeting. Just think of it girls! Something like that did not happen since the sudden appearance of Minotaurs."

"I have to admit that I am surprised..." Said Rarity and let her hoof go through her marvelous hair.

"The last time I had the opportunity to talk with an Batwing was during the last Night Mare Night. She was a very kind soul and also shown me a surprisingly big interest in fashion."

"Sadly I've never spoken to any of these fellahs." Apple Jack played around with her hat while she said it. She did not even look at her friends while she went on. "Granny used to tell me stories about them. I'll not lie... for a long time I was bein' haunted my nightmares..."

"The Batwings have nothing to do with this stories." Replied Twilight with lowered ears. "I understand you very well... I used to think the same until I met Borealis. The Nocturians deserve to be treated with the same respect as any other species. It will probably take a while until word will spread of their appearance, but I sincerely hope that with the Magic of Friendship this obstacle will be pushed aside."

"So what are we waiting for!?" It was Rainbow Dash's voice that cut through the air while flying small circles above the ponies. "You said it yourself that they have offered friendship long time ago. And they were serving Princess Luna for generations as far ponies can think. We should repay loyalty with loyalty."

The other ponies agreed to Twilight's great joy. Her trust in the Magic of Friendship and most importantly into her friends have not failed her and never will.

"In that case I will quickly return to my library and sent a letter to Princess Celestia. Poor Spike. I thought that I would let him sleep a little bit longer... but I am sure he will understand."

"How does he feel?" Asked Fluttershy with the voice of a caring mother.

"Yes how does Spikey feel?"

"He feels and looks better than last week. The fever is gone and eventually the weakness will also fade away."

Everypony let out a relaxed sigh and the poor Fluttershy wiped away a tear of joy.

"Uh... actually Twilight..." Suddenly the caring mother was gone and the well known Fluttershy returned. "Where is Mr. Borealis?"

For a moment a tense silence was filling the air with its heavy and thick presence only to be cut through with the sound of a hoof palm and a very distressed yelp of Twilight. Rainbow Dash started to laugh right away once she saw the facial expression of the lavender mare. Others said nothing and seemed to be under shock.

"Oh dear Celestia! I lost myself in my thoughts about the upcoming meeting and I totally forgot Borealis! No, no, no, no!"

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The time passed by without being noticed by the two lovers in the sky. Eventually they realized that a new day have come and the pleasures of the body had to stop. The morning brought forth a very cold wind from the west and Lyria started to shiver. Both were still affected by the passion that let them forget the problems of their world and even time itself. Protected by the leathery weave of his wing (the very personal parts included) Lyria pushed herself closer to Borealis and enjoyed the feeling of his fur and skin.

"We desperately need to take a bath my heart." Said the stallion and nuzzled her. Lyria's eyes were closed but she gifted him with a pretty smile. She also wrapped her wings around his body as good as she could to protect her mate from the cold element. "With the wind Pegasi will come as well."

"Do I hear jealousy in your voice?" She chuckled and opened her eyes. "Are you afraid that a stallion will look at me?"

"I am afraid that in your own jealousy you will hit me in the ribs." They both laughed and kissed each other. The Batwings knew that they still had some time for each other, but Borealis's idea about the bath was quite correct and necessary. Also during their passionate night their cloud changed its direction and was slowly heading towards the nearby mountains. The air was colder here and the tops of the mountains were already covered in fine coat of snow. For a moment both felt like they were not so far away from the homeland yet here the cold was not as rough. One could say it was gentle.

While Lyria kept ruffling his mane and fur Borealis looked down and kept looking for a place which they could use as a bath. It did not take long and the stallion found a secluded place in a group of small forests which were doting the plains.

"I found a small pond not so far away from us." The mare managed to let go of his mane and looked down. She inspected the place for a moment and even kept looking for other places. Eventually she did give up and laid her eyes upon the pond.

"It is better than nothing." She let go of him and quite clumsily she got up. Her legs did not work along first and she landed on her backside. Her laugh filled the air and right away she got up with far more grace. Right away the Delegate realized that she was showing of her body to him. The delicate weave of her wings was hiding the most precious parts but while she was moving to the mixed up pile of clothes she revealed them to him seductively.

He enjoyed watching the spectacle for a moment yet he also got on his hooves and moved towards the pile. A terrible mess of male and female cloths were scattered all along the cloud making it look like an abstract piece of art. Both mare and stallion rolled their eyes and started the search for their clothes. Gladly it took them only a short while until they found what belong to them. Quickly the attires have been roughly packed into their saddle bags. Soon they stood at the edge of the cloud holding their hooks together.
Borealis took all the bags on himself. He could feel her eyes on him and he was quite sure that once he would look into the cat like eyes there would be a message in them.

< Stallions and their childish and stubborn pride. >

It was him who spread his wings first. A very polite move among the society of the Batwings towards a mare or an elder pony. With this message he was openly showing her that she would be under his protection and his guidance. Lyria also opened her wings gracefully but before that she let her leathery weave touch his own. Showing him that she was thankful and that she accepted him as a guide. Both smiled at each other and without looking down they embraced the cold winds of Equestria. Once more and not for the last time the Batwings returned into their element and allowed the wind to carry them down.

While the stallion was busy maintaining their position Lyria took her time and enjoyed the sight she has been gifted with. Borealis noticed the same fascination that has taken hold of his heart and was glad to see how happy she was in that very moment. Rarely she smiled lately... but he could not claim that he was smiling either. The magical land of Equestria managed to free them from it even if it would be of short duration. A mighty blow threatened to take them with it but the experienced stallion used his own weight and a proper move of his wings to lower their flight. Or better said their gliding.

It did not take long and both landed with such grace that several animals stopped to move only to watch the strange couple land. Right away Lyria freed herself of his hooks grasp and simply let herself fall on the grass.

"This feeling is so nice. It feels better than any carpets I have felt... not even silk seems to have such delicate touch." She looked up to him and smiled while enjoying the touch of the soft grass.

"Imagine how this land must feel like in the summer or in the spring. Even now I am thrilled by the clean air but I can sense the upcoming change of seasons. It is so unusual so unreal. I could claim that all this is only a dream." The Delegate of Nocturia took a deep breath and let it out with a very silent sigh. His breath turned into vapor only to disappear as fast as it appeared. Everything around him seemed to be a part of a dream he did not wish to leave. But what kind of life would it be to live in a fake reality?
One would never want to leave it. Others would only call it a very comfortable prison of his or her mind. A soft touch ripped him out of his thought. He looked down and saw that Lyria was gently rubbing his leg with her back leg.

"Does this feel like a dream to you?"

As expected his wings reacted to her touch which was surely noticed by the sharp eyes of the Batwing lady. Borealis smiled and touched back but his smile did not last long.

"You know... we could stay here with our brothers and sisters and live a happy life. Serving the Princess of the Night and the Subjects that live in this land."

Lyria's back leg stopped to move for a moment only to continue very slowly.

"I would lie if I would say that I did not think about it myself." She lifter her upper body a little bit and looked directly into his eyes. "Especially after the last night... I would love to stay here and simply live on your side. But it would mean to abandon everything we have worked on. All our efforts would be for nothing."

"I do not agree." Borealis took his place on the side of his beloved and gently touched her cheek with his hook. "Everything we have done for the Tribes beneath the Mountain was worth all the effort, blood and tears. I would go through it again knowing that our selfless actions helped the poor souls who needed our assistance."

The mare closed her eyes and enjoyed his touch. Her own hook found its way to his heart and remained there. Automatically the heart beat faster and stronger for now it was only beating for her. Beating for her now and to the ends of his days.

"I followed you into the depths of Minotaur Labyrinths Borealis. If you will stay here I will remain with you." She open her eyes and looked at him. He could see that even if she really meant what she just said there was still a slight trace of insecurity in her voice. Something very understandable since it was a decision that might affect their life. "But before we will decide..."

< We will end our mission. >

Both ponies spoke in the same moment which surprised the mare more than the stallion.

"That's my Lyri. Always eager to end what she has started. If not for you many missions would have ended badly or simply fruitless." Borealis grabbed her hook and helped his heart to get on her hooves. "In that case we have still much to do. Quite a lot of things will depend from the upcoming meeting." The stallion came closer and sniffed his mate under her neck. She did let out a surprised sound which was full of excitement. "But I do not think it would be wise or professional to enter the halls of the royal sisters with the smell of sweat and mating on our furs hmm?"

This statement did catch the female Delegate by surprise. Her face quickly turned purple after realizing that Borealis was not joking, but also that he was right.

" M-moron..." It was the only thing she said before she headed towards the forest where they have spotted the pond. The male grinned brightly while he followed and watched her every movement. Quickly the annoyance disappeared and the mare started to giggle quietly. It was obvious that both ponies liked the smell that was lasting on them. After a while and some hasty word exchange the Batwings managed to find the pond.

Happy about finally freeing his back from the extra weight Borealis let the back bags slide down on the ground. Here and there leafs started to decorate the ground with their colors of red and yellow, but sadly some of them were about to decay. This did not matter though for both Nocturians simply ignored it. Lyria came closer to the pond, which was bigger than anticipated, and pushed her hoof into the water.

A noticeable shiver ran down her spine and even her wings went up without any control. It was a funny thing to look at but he was smart enough to not laugh about it.

"I did bath in warmer places... but we do the best with the things that are within our reach hmm?"

"Do not worry my love. I will make sure that you will not freeze in it."

"I will gladly accept this offer milord." She laughed and without warning him she grasped after his hook and pulled him into the cold water. The cold spread all over his body like a wild fire and he could only let out a yelp that sounded pathetic. Lyria laughed heavily about it for she knew which parts have been mostly affected by her hideous attack. She quickly pushed herself to him and wrapped her body around his. It did work at least a little bit but the intention itself was warming up better than any camp fire.

"You are..." The stallion started to say.

"Yeeeees?"

"You are the most desirable of treasures. Only that the rich fools did not notice it over the years."

He expected to hear her answer but her answer was way different than he had imagined. Their tongues found each other and the couple fell into a passionate kiss. For the day was still at its very beginning... they could spare some time for each other. Even if it would be a short while.

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"Where could he be?" Asked Twilight loudly while she was flying in the area where she has last seen the Delegate of Nocturia. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy joined her on her search but so far they did not find him.

"I have been told that the wind would come from the west this time. We should head in that direction."

"I suggest that we split." Said Rainbow Dash and looked around. "Yes the wind was supposed to come from the west, but it should also change its direction two hours ago. "

"In that case I will look around in the south." It was Fluttershy who suggested to take that route. Not a surprise since if she would fly in that direction she would fly towards her home.

"Good. I will fly to the north east. Twilight you fly to the west towards the mountains."

"Okay. Remember to use the talismans I gave you. One touch will allow you to communicate with me."

And so the mares separated from each other to look for one Batwing in the big open world. Twilight followed her instincts and the small remaining parts of clouds which were still strong enough to remain slight bits of its former self. Deep in her heart she hoped that Borealis was alright but the winds in this time of the seasons can be very dangerous. And the clouds can also fall apart if not tented properly. Quickly the Alicorn shook her head and freed her mind of the worst possible scenarios. The wind was on her side and she quickly arrived at the mountains which once has been inhabited, even if it was of short while, by a grown up red dragon.

Close to the top she found a *herd* of clouds and to her great relief she recognized the cloud which Borealis used as a bed. Sadly she did not find him on it. Twilight let out a very long sigh which echoed in the mountains. The lavender pony looked around, searching for clues that might help her find the stallion. But as much as she tried she did not find anything relevant. But the Princess did not give up so easily. From her current location she had a great view on the land. Even a child would recognize Ponyville from here and she was quite sure that the Delegate would find his way back to the city. Or he would fly right away to the distant Canterlot which was only a small pillar on the other side of the mountains.

< Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Apple Jack assured me that they would look for him in Ponyville. If he would decide to come back to my library they would take care of him. >
There was also a very important point she had to keep in mind. The very point was the great fascination of the stallion for this beautiful land. Professional as he may be his eyes were literally feasting upon the sights of Equestria. This fascination could have taken over him for a moment and he might have taken a small tour in the area. Twilight herself knew that kind of fascination quite well but it was bounded to books and scrolls more than to travels.

While she was thinking about the countless possibilities the mare spotted some movements beneath her. Her eyes laid upon a small group of forests that were doting the open fields like pocks. The closest to her seemed to have a pond in its center, but her attention belonged to an object that had nothing to do with nature. It looked like saddle bags if her eyes were not playing her a joke. Without better options Twilight started to fly towards the forest and managed to land without crashing into a bush. Which sadly happened way too often recently despite all her hard work.

Her eyes did not play her any joke for she has found the saddle bags and some hoof prints in the ground. Right away she realized that the stallion was not alone and that the smaller prints must belong to a mare. Also she did notice that one of the bags was designed for females. It also had a very fine and nice smell that could only come from a perfume. A little bit uneasy about this situation Twilight looked into the forest, trying to penetrate the trees with her sight. As small as the forest was it was quite thick and she could not see anything. It does not take years of studies to imagine what a mare and stallion could or better said would do in a secluded place like that.
The cheek of the mare felt warm for a moment and she was glad that the wind cooled her down. It was not her business this was clear. But she decided to wait for the two ponies as awkward it may be. While she was counting down all the flowers and herbs she could see on the nearby field suddenly the sound of breaking wood filled the air. This broke the concentration of the Alicorn Princess but quickly she regained her control over the shock.

It did not take long and she could recognize two shapes coming out of the forest. As predicted she saw Borealis who was being accompanied by a mare. His wing was on her back and while they were moving towards her, without even realizing her presence, the couple was leaning their heads against each other. How they managed to move on with closed eyes it remained a mystery to Twilight, but the sight was nice to look at. They looked happy together and it was obvious that the mare was feeling safe next to Borealis.
The Nocturians were both wearing nothing and their manes and fur were all wet. The only logical conclusion to it was that they have bathed together. Not sure of how to handle this quite unlike situation the lavender mare did the only thing she could think of.

"H-hello." In her mind this sounded way better than in the reality. Right away the Batwings open their eyes and were pushed out of the land of dreams. Nopony said something in that moment and Twilight found herself in the most unpleasant position. For now she had to endure the eyes of two Nocturians that were feeling as surprised and awkward as herself. It was the mare who regained control and after freeing herself of the wing (which she left only reluctantly) she quickly tried to make her mane look at least a little bit better.

Borealis made sure that his companion would have enough time to make herself pretty. Not that she needed it. Personally Twilight thought that she was a very beautiful mare.

"Good Moring Twilight." The Delegate bowed gracefully and smiled at her. "I am sorry that you witness us in such condition. We... we were not expecting visitors at this early hour." He laughed hearty and let his hook go through his wet mane. "I can only assume that I was being missed?"

"Yes I was quite worried Borealis. After all you are the guest of the two Royal Sisters... and of course mine as well. In my foolishness I lost myself in my thoughts and did not tend to my guest properly."

"Please do not think like that. To honor a wish of a guest is the greatest thing a host can do and I was very pleased that you gave me the opportunity to enjoy the night sky." For a brief moment his eyes laid upon the female Batwing who manage to style her mane surprisingly well. It was questionable what Borealis thought now... but again it was none of Twilight's business. "Princess Twilight allow me to introduce you to Lady Lyria." He moved towards her and offered his wing like a gentlecolt. Lyria smiled at him and laid her wing on his and together they moved towards Twilight. "She is the true Delegate among us and the reason why we are here."

"It is a great honor to finally meet you your Highness." Lyria also bowed down before Twilight with great grace and beauty which made her feel a little bit uncomfortable.

"Please just call me Twilight. It is also an honor to meet you." A thought went through her mind and right away she confronted Borealis with it. "Why did she not come with you last night Borealis?"

The stallion was about to say something but it was the mare who answered for him. A barely noticeable huff filled the air and the two mares had to smile about it.
"Borealis can fly faster than me and I asked him to fly forward so we might skip the pleasantries. As much as I share his fascination for this land our mission must not be affected by our feelings."

"I can assure you that Equestria will try to do its best to help the Nocturians in their time of need."

"And for that we are most thankful." It was Borealis who answered this time. He grabbed Lyria's hook with his own and held it with a firm yet gentle hold. "We can only hope that one day we will be able to repay you for your Friendship."

"It is hard to find allies in the depths of our Homeland. But I am confident of the future with the selfish help of Equestria." Lyria blushed prettily after she felt the touch of Borealis. She even move closer to him.

"While I was absent I managed to gather my friends who will participate in the upcoming meeting. I suggest that we will return to Ponyville. Gladly I will present them to you."

"As much as we appreciate your concern and your offer we have to return to our companions."

"Companions?" Asked Twilight a little bit surprised.

"We have traveled along with friends who have decided to accompany us into this land. It would be very inappropriate to simply let them wait in the wilds while we will participate in a meeting." Borealis was right about it. Not only it would have been rude but it would also make him and this land itself look bad if his companions would stay out there in the cold.

"This is understandable. I will inform Princess Celestia about your friends and help her with all the necessary preparations. I hope you will not be angry at me if I will ask you to enter Canterlot without me? The Royal Guard will escort you during the day. The time has come for the Subjects of this land to find out about the existence of the Nocturians."
Both Batwings bowed in front of her. And both answered in the same time... like they would be one mind, one soul and one body.

"This is what we hoped for Princess of Friendship."

Chapter 7

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“I am sure that you would honor our companions with your presence Princess.” Said Lyria and made an interesting looking gesture with her hook. “They have traveled with us for a while, but their own journey was far longer.”

“Oh… you should have informed me about your companions earlier. We would have provided refreshment, food and most importantly a roof over the head. They must be exhausted.”

Borealis chuckled at her last statement making Twilight think like she said something a child would have said in the Nocturian homeland. The stallion used his hook and pointed to the northwest. In the same time a cold gust of wind came from that direction and made both mares shiver. Borealis seemed to not be impressed by it, but he did cover Lyria with his body and wing, while poor Twilight was exposed to the relentless wind brought by the Pegasi.

“We have set camp in a pine forest not so far away from here. One of my friends found a cave and they decided to camp there until we would return. I personally think that some of them are actually afraid of so much open space. I can’t blame them for that though… it also felt strange to me not to be surrounded by stone.”

“Who would have thought that open space can be so overwhelming? Yet after a short while my fear disappeared and this land won my heart.” Lyria looked around. Her eyes were feasting upon the beauty of Equestria and it seemed that she would have lost herself in it if not for Borealis. He spoke something in their language. The mare rolled her eyes, but a sweet sounding chuckle followed right away.

“I am still concerned though…” Twilight kept looking into the wide open fields. She was able to see the small shape of the pine forest in the distance. The wind kept blowing coming from there and ruined her hair with every blow. “Are your companions supplied properly?”

“Oh yes, yes they are. Despite being in a foreign land they can take care of themselves. One thing any being in the Underground has to learn… otherwise you might end up in troublesome situations.” Even the stallion started to get annoyed by the wind, which kept playing around with their manes. “It is a very strong wind. I would not recommend flying now… we would reach our camp faster if we will stay on solid ground.” Borealis was looking at the sky like he could follow every move of the wind.

“I agree.” Lyria let go of him and walked towards the saddlebags. “Many have suffered serious injuries due to haste. It would be fatal for our mission if any of us would share that fate.” She searched through her bag and pulled out a very old looking coat. Quickly she covered herself with it hiding her back and wings from the nasty element. The male Delegate followed his mate’s example and also covered himself with a coat. Twilight watched the couple with great interest. They were not any different from the couples she kept seeing in Ponyville, but it was something unordinary to look upon anyway.

For a Pegasi Borealis was surprisingly big. Broad and muscular as he was made one think that he would not be able to fly, yet he did. And he did it with such elegance it seemed like he would weight nothing. Lyria was smaller than him but still quite big for a mare. Twilight could have bet that she was just a little bit smaller than Princess Luna. One could say that what she was looking at now was a beauty and a beast. The way how the stallion was treating her was very respectable, gentle and kind. Just by watching Twilight could have imagine the feeling of being save around him. He treated her the way any stallion should treat his mare.

Compared to him Lyria was water while he was fire. She moved with grace and elegance. Any of her moves seemed to be well planned, and there was no trace of doubt in her body language. She was happy around Borealis, and she welcomed his kind ways openly, and shared the same trust towards him. While the Delegate was busy with taking all the saddlebags on his back she followed any of his movements. Of course she also helped him while commenting that he did not have to carry everything on his own. It did not work. It also seemed that stallions were all the same no matter if in Equestria or Nocturia.

Once the saddlebags were properly attached to Borealis he stretched his legs and suppressed a yawn. Twilight did notice that both ponies in front of her were showing signs of exhaustion. Although the male was hiding it well Lyria was not as good at it like her mate. It seemed that the Delegate noticed it, as Twilight did, and decided to carry the bags for her.

< A cute way to show that one cares for the other. > Thought Twilight and tried to imagine how it could feel like to have somepony on her side. It was a nice imagination, but for now her private life would have to be pushed aside. For a moment she did feel jealous while watching the couple. Gladly the cold wind brought her back to reality, freeing her of unnecessary thoughts.

“Here Twilight.” Now it was not only the wind that brought her back to reality. It was the sound of Borealis who was standing in front of her. In his mouth he was holding a cloak which explained why his voiced sounded different for a moment. How on earth she did not see him coming towards her remained a mystery. To be honest it was not the first time that something like that happened to her.

“It might be a little bit too big, but it is better than nothing.” It was hard to understand what he was saying now, but before she could reply he covered her with the cloak. At the first sight it made her think that it was made of heavy cloth and that it would be rough to her skin, but surprisingly it was not the case. Yes the cloak was too big for her one would see it right away, yet it felt soft and warm. Twilight could not recognize what it was made of though. It did feel different than any kind of cloth she knew. It also felt foreign and had an interesting scent which she did not recognize either.

“Thank you.” Said Twilight and made sure that the wind would not take away the precious gift. “I suggest we go find your companions. Usually at this time of the year the Pegasi do not only bring forth the wind, but also a lot of rain.”

“In that case let’s move out.” Once more Borealis stretched his bones, but this time a loud sound cut through the air. A sound that made both mares shiver, which was surely noticed by the stallion. His grin only proved it.

“I hate it when you do it…” Said Lyria and started to walk towards the shape of the pine forest. Quickly followed by her two companions their journey began. It was hard to keep up the pace with them. Gladly Lyria noticed it and slowed down, taking place on the side of Borealis who was inspecting the landscape with his cat like eyes. In that moment she noticed how his iris was constantly changing its form. Nothing unusual since all irises adapted to the sun light, but rarely Twilight had the opportunity to see something like that on a Batwing.

The wind remained relentless, and here and there the small group could see Pegasi in the sky, placing clouds in various spots. Gladly the cloak Twilight received from the kind Batwings turned out to be a great shield against the cold element. It did not protect their manes from it though and soon they looked like somepony have just recently dragged the out of bed. Lyria’s mane did *attack* the poor Borealis several times in a row, and it seemed like no matter how many times he switched his position her mane attacked him like a angry snake. Lyria was laughing at her mate while he was mumbling angrily after the savage attack that smacked him right in the face. Twilight joined the mare and also laughed about it. Eventually the stallion joined and their laughter filled the air while the wind carried the sound of it far to the east only to be lost somewhere in the mountains. The female delegate leaned her head against Borealis and gave him a kiss on the place where her hair has struck him. He accepted the apology without any words. Lyria's head moved towards his ear and she whispered something to her special pony.

The reaction was quite unusual because for the first time Twilight saw, that whatever has been whispered to him it took him off guard.
She could read it in his body language. Although the cloak was hiding the most parts of his body she noticed how heavy his walk suddenly became. Like some invisible force has placed a boulder upon his shoulders. Borealis did not whisper back. He simply continued their travel towards the pine forest that grew larger with each step. Both stallion and mares faced the wind that seemed to get stronger and stronger. The smell of the wind was changing, bringing them the message of an upcoming rain that was starting to build up far in the distance. Silence has befallen the small group and only the sound of the elements were cutting through it.

Twilight thought about starting a conversation since the silence felt strange - one could even say heavy or dense. There were so many things she wanted to know about the Nocturians and their society. Yet the tension that was surrounding Borealis was overwhelming and discouraging. For now she would wait and simply follow the two Batwings, hoping that her questions would be answered. While she was going through the countless questions and theories the pine forest started to show its crude and brought size. Soon it became like a natural shield that was hiding whatever was lying behind it. If not for the wind they would have probably reached it after a half hour of walking, but a new obstacle appeared in front of them.

It was a swamp. Borealis and Lyria were looking at it like it would have been made out of gold. They were inspecting it like small children which was a funny thing to look at. The male delegate was brave enough to take a sip of it only to spit it out with disgust. While he tried to clean his tongue with a sip from his water sack Lyria kept watching the various plants and animals she could spot. Eventually the Batwings looked like they were confused or simply lost.

"I do not remember this area..." He spit again and begged the pardon of his companions. "While I was scouting this area I flew several times over this place. This emmm, swamp right?" He asked Twilight while he kept watching his reflection in the water.

"Yes this is a swamp. Nothing unusual in this part of Equestria. We are lucky though that it is not big or deep. We should make it through without flying. But since we do not wish to wait long I could simply teleport us to the verge of the pine forest. Have you even been teleported?"

"Oh yes were." Lyria took a step back once an ugly and fat frog jumped into the swamp not so far away from her. "Certain parts of our Kingdom can be only reached with the help of teleportation."

Twilight blinked surprised at this answer. "But how? I thought that only Batwings were living in your Kingdom."

This time it was Lyria who seemed to be surprised. With a quick glimpse she looked at Borealis who's full attention belonged to a dragonfly, which landed at the tip of his nose.

"It seems that Borealis did not tell you much about our Kingdom then?"

Twilight moved closer to Lyria so only she could hear those words.

"Borealis arrived at the castle very exhausted. Although he was hiding it well the Princesses noticed it right away, and moved the official meeting for the next day. After we accepted the desperate call of the Nocturians he could no longer keep his feelings under control. His tears only showed us how bad the situation beneath the mountain must be."

"A very important task has been placed upon our shoulders Twilight. He was a Delegate long before we first met. Borealis is a very known pony among our society. Loved, and sadly feared alike because he was either bringing good or bad news to the lords and subjects." She looked back at her mate and smiled after she realized that he was under siege of dragonflies, which were landing on his head and lifted hoof. He himself seemed not to like it that much, since he probably did not want to harm any of them with a sudden movement. "He deserves to be treated with respect and honor. If not for his hard work the Underground realm would be shrouded with the flames of civil war. Then he took the responsibility that might change everything on himself. He was the only one who had the courage to accept, while others remained silent. Borealis is a simple stallion despite his..." She did not end the sentence.

"Is it really that bad?" Asked Twilight and lowered her ears. The mere thought of something so terrible and tragic like war was nothing nice to think about. "There were no records of war for decades maybe even for centuries."

"Not in the upper world yes... sadly it was not always the case in the history of Nocturia. But I see now why he decided to wait with this information. I suggest to wait with this conversation until the honor of meeting the two Royal Sisters have been granted to us."
Twilight smiled and nod, but deep in her heart she was disappointed for her thirst for wisdom had to wait.

"May I know what you are talking about maladies?" Somehow he managed to free himself of the Dragonflies and moved closer to them.

"Oh I highly doubt you would like to hear what we were talking about now. Or perhaps you consider yourself a mare?"

"Last time I checked everything was on its rightful place." Borealis chuckled and looked at the pine forest on the other side of the swamp. Lyria rolled her eyes and smiled while blushing slightly. It seemed that the Batwings forgot Twilight for a moment. She decided to be silent and avoid more awkward situations. If possible.

"Twilight offered to teleport us to the verge of the forest Borealis. We would spare a lot of time." She looked into the sky where dark clouds were gathering. "Flying is still not an option. We should agree."

Borealis was thinking for a moment. It looked like he was calculating the distance and the time they would require to cross the swamp. In the end he only shook his head and even let out a curse, that even Twilight knew, after being struck by a strong wind blow.

"If not for the lack of time, and this current unpleasant surprise." It seemed he wanted to spit into the swamp again, but this time he gladly did not. As much as impressive it was how far he could spit Twilight and Lyria disliked to watch him doing that. "I would not accept it..." He looked back at Twilight and a cold shiver ran down her spine. For a moment there was a strange spark in his eyes. Cold was the first word she would use to describe it mixed up with concern and perhaps even fear.

"Do you think you are able to perform such spell for that distance?"

"Yes. Yes I am Borealis."

She answered right away without any doubts or concern. The stallion seemed to be impressed by the bold words of a mare of her size (of course compared to his own size).

"So be it. Lyria and I will not disturb your concentration then." Lyria took her place on the side and with far more noticeable concern she asked if Twilight was really sure about it. The answer remained the same as did Twilight's will. They created a small circle while the Princess of Magic explained them what must be done. It was simple to be honest. The only thing the Delegates had to do was to maintain physical contact with the caster. It would make the performance of the spell easier due to the fact that twilight would not have to grasp after them with the help of magic. Once everything was ready her horn started to glow. Slowly she recalled the place that was close to the forest and far away from the swamp. The words have been spoken, and the world disappeared in a blinding flash.

The glow in Twilight's eyes faded away so did the magic surrounding her horn. Borealis shook his head while Lyria only let out a dampen sigh. Everything went according to the plan. The transport of living beings to the place Twilight has chosen was perfect. But the process cost her more than expected and she would have collapsed if not for the stallion.

"T-thank you..." Said Twilight and tried to stand straight. In that moment she realized and felt that something else was holding her left hoof. Borealis was on her right side, but Lyria remained right in front of her. She was saying something, but Twilight did not hear any sound. The failure of the spell has been right away realized by her mind. The lavender mare completely forgot that strong wind could actually affect the teleportation if simply casted to a place that was not properly prepared for it. Basically the structure known as a Stone Portal had runes carved in the solid stone that were making sure that the spell would remain unaffected by weather or even magic itself.

Since there was no Portal like that here she simply gambled while teleporting. Gladly nothing bad happened. The weakness would fade away and she would be okay in no time. Yet... she was wondering who was holding her left hoof. The natural instinct and curiosity made her look in that certain direction. Her eyes widen up because she saw a huge horned being standing next to her. Twilight yelped out of fear and due to her weakness she lost her consciousness. The world turned dark, and the last thing she remembered was falling right towards the horned being.

Chapter 8

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< Time is something so precious… yet only few value it in the time of their youth. > Thought Eridanus and slowly moved towards the expensive and richly carved wardrobe. Due to his weaken state the king added several carvings on its surface to prevent many falls, resulting in a shameful destruction of its former beauty. The hooks were still sharp despite the fragile body of his, and he was glad for that, because bruises or even worse broken bones would have made his already miserable excuse of life twice as bad. Eridanus reached the wardrobe and inspected the *wounds* he has inflicted on the expensive wood.

One time his hook went so deep into it that he required the help of Moonwing to free himself. This thought made the elder pony smile for he heard his daughter laugh. There was no need to hide the truth. The King under the Mountain felt lonely and useless. He was not able to perform his duties yet and even writing became a physically and mentally painful burden. Extracts of Night Shade kept his whole body intact during his coma, but once he has awakened the body started to work on its own. Both organism and extract were no longer working together which is why his Physicians forbid giving him more doses of it.

Two days ago the first symptoms of this drastic measure showed up. The shiver, high temperature, cold sweat even hallucinations haunted the king for a couple of days. It was a very hard time for himself and his poor daughter who never left his side. Or perhaps it was only a trick of his mind? Reality became twisted and it was hard to recognize if things he has seen were real or not. Everywhere phantom like things followed or appeared before Eridanus. Some he could not identify because they were twisted or nearly fully covered with shadows. Others were clearer yet still bizarre and one could say not from this world.

Kind Eridanus leaned his head against the furniture and closed his eyes, holding the knob of the wardrobe with his hook. The worst hallucinations were those which stabbed his heart with an invisible blade. While he was on his way to the privy he thought he saw movement somewhere in the corridor. First he ignored it, but it kept appearing here and there. He simply continued his way to the privy until the source of the movement appeared in front of him. It was his firstborn son Aurelius. He was simply sitting there like he would be waiting for something.

< Will you play with me daddy? >

Before he could answer his son jumped towards him. Eridanus was happy and spread his wings to welcome his beloved son, but once the boy reached him he turned into nothing. Like vapor the hallucination disappeared and left the king alone in the slightly lit corridor. In panic he searched everywhere, yelling and crying out of fear for the safety of the child. The yells attracted the Guards who quickly brought him to the Physicians and Doctors. Little could he remember besides the shameful fact that he wetted his bed.

On the same day his second son Corvus haunted the poor king while he was on a walk with Moonwing. Once he has spotted him between two great pillars he desperately pointed at him and asked to stay where he was. The boy followed his wish and smiled at him.

< Where have you been papa? >

Eridanus tried to explain, but a strong wind came out of the caverns and blew the hallucination away. The last thing that was saved by his clouded mind was to hear Moonwing cry, while she escorted him back to his chambers. But the worst was yet to come. After eating his breakfast the King under the Mountain decided to let the winds clear his troubled mind. Often it has helped him in the past, and he hoped it would also work in the present time. The castle has changed since his coma, but certain parts of it remained the same. In the east wing of the castle was a small balcony, which he often used as a small refuge. It was facing away from the city and allowed him to give him a break from his duties at least for a moment. Gladly he welcomed his old friend and enjoyed the touch of the wind on his skin. Until a voice cut through the wind, a voice he knew very well. His heart stopped to beat and surely all the colors faded away from his fur. It was the sound of his wife Andromeda.

< Here you are darling. > She chuckled happily and walked towards him. His eyes were open wide and his wings suddenly turned heavy and touched the ground. Unable to take control of his body Eridanus simply remained petrified like the so called Earthen of the Underground. His beloved Andromeda was standing in front of him like time has never passed by, and she was carefully carrying a small bundle of joy in her delicate hooks. < Your daddy decided to hide from us. > She nuzzled her child who yawned sleepily in respond. Finally the strength and control returned to his body and very slowly and carefully walked towards his wife and daughter.

The stallion reached out after them with his hook. Afraid that they would disappear he said nothing until he touched the soft cheek of Andromeda. With love written in her eyes she leaned against his hook and enjoyed his gentle touch. In that moment the baby started to cry and the father wanted to hush his child and simply pull her to himself, but then the hallucination faded away before his very eyes. He could still feel that he was touching somepony, and it turned out that it was not a trick of mind but reality. In front of him stood Moonwing and did exactly the same thing the illusion of her mother did. She was holding a wrapped cloak in her hooks which she brought for him.

Quickly the king took a clumsy step back, and roughly pulled his hook away from the confused Moonwing. She asked if everything was fine with noticeable concern, but it only made everything worse. Tears started to run down his cheeks and with surprising speed he ran back into the castle.

And so he was here in his chambers free of the influence of the foul Night Shade. He was still standing next to wardrobe, but while traveling through his memory, without realizing it, Eridanus took out an object of the past which Moonwing gave him some days ago. It was a small portray of the Royal Family. Held by his magic the small object was levitating next to his chest. Its pale color slightly lit the environment around him with its barely noticeable shine. His eyes were inspecting this precious gift of the past. What he saw was a scene a few days after the birth of Moonwing. It was a portray not drawn by an artist, but created by the use of magic and the memory of one of Andromeda’s sisters who witnessed this particular scene. His boys, already teens, were curiously looking at the front legs of their mother. Leaned against the ample chest of her mare lied Moonwing and slept peacefully, ignoring the attention of her siblings. Andromeda looked down at her three greatest gifts while she cuddled against the head of her husband. But the stallion on this portray also belonged to a time long past.

It was a stallion whose chest was swelled with pride. Strong, wise and healthy… his very presence was emitting an inspiring aura, which his subjects loved and respected. What Eridanus looked at was the true King under the Mountain not the shadow of his former self which he has become.

< What have I ever done to deserve such fate… > Thought Eridanus and started to cry in the silence of his chambers. He was broken, he was weak, he was nothing. It was uncertain how long he cried, but he made sure that nopony would hear his misery especially Moonwing. After a while his throat started to hurt, and the world seemed to have vanished behind a wall of tears. With his hooks he wiped away his tears and tried to find his kerchief. Once more Eridanus dared to look at the portray with a noticeable hesitation. As painful as it was to look at it right now the stallion noticed something he has not seen before. It was the sigil of his Royal Family on the chest armor he was wearing. It was a shield with the map of Nocturia on its surface, which was embraced by Batwings on both sides.

< Ab aeterno, ab origine, ad infinitum. > A whisper went through the room. First it was very, very quiet and it only seemed to be a very weak blow of a wind. But every being born below the Earth, no matter if it possesses intelligence or not, knows that even the weakest wind might quickly turn into a gale. So the whispers became louder and clearer to the king. It seemed like an eternity since the last time he has heard them. Ironically Eridanus on the portray was in an age one could consider average. Despite feeling like a millennium ago he knew that this was no longer the case. He could consider himself an elder Alicorn, and with his current condition he might also be a bag of slowly rotting meat.

< Ab aeterno, ab origine, ad infinitum! >

Eridanus grasped his head with his hooks and let out a dampen squirm of pain. He knew the words his mind started to spit out after looking at the sigil, but he could not remember their meaning. His head felt like it could explode at any second while the relentless whispers turned into loud voices. Suddenly the stallion could see blurry images, and surprisingly also smell and feel something familiar. What could it mean? Why was it happening? And why did his stubborn mind keep throwing the same words at him. Again. Again. And AGAIN!

< AB AETERNO, AB ORIGINE, AD INFINITUM! >

The King under the Mountain opened his eyes and noticed that his hair was floating. It could only mean that while he was trying to endure the pain his body entered a magical stance on its own. With clenched teeth he took control over his body, but his eyes remained upon the portray. He simply kept looking at the sigil like there would be nothing else in this world worth looking at. In that very moment a long and deep sigh went through the king’s chambers. The floating hair fell down and an invisible and everything around the old stallion became surprisingly silent. A sound caught his attention and to his great surprise it was the buzzing sound of a Greenling's tiny wings. And there it was the tiny ball of light, flying around and minding its own business. Or was it trying to find its way back to its swarm? No matter what it was up to the Greenling flew towards the mourning king and landed right on his hook.

"You have returned little one." Said Eridanus with a dampen voice and lifted his wing to inspect the bug. It seemed like it was not impressed by facing a giant like him because it simply was taking care of its antennas. "Don't you want to return to your swarm? To your family?"
In that moment the bug looked directly into the eyes of the Batwing King without any signs of fear. Several times it flapped its wings and spread small spores and caught light over his hook, but it kept *staring* at him with his many eyes.

"You seem to know how it feels like to be alone." The stallion smiled and the small insect. "So do I sadly. I wonder what you think of me Greenling... because each time I look in the mirror I do not see my reflection, but a being which is not me. Or at least this is what I try to believe. You seem to be an odd fellah. If you want you can stay with me for a while. Even the smallest living presence can make a difference in the life of one single being."

To his great surprise the bug's life began to glow brighter, and it also seemed that it start to jump happily on his hook. The king took this message as a yes. With one flap of its wings the Greenling started to fly around Eridanus, spreading more and more of its fine spores. After a short while it got tired probably because of the excitement. It landed on the floating portray and intended to rest on it.

< In this part of the world many ponies claim and believe with all their hearts that the gathered light and spores of the Greenlings brought luck upon the individual who was lucky enough to embrace it's *blessing* >

The Greenling once more flapped with his tiny wings spreading the remaining light and spores from the weave surface. Surprisingly only the upper left part of the portray was covered. The part where the King under the Mountain was watching his family with pride and happiness.
" Ab aeterno, ab origine, ad infinitum..." Eridanus repeated the three words that kept haunting him, but through the appearance of his small companion he forgot about them at least for a moment. He inspected the sigil of his family and closed his eyes in shame.

"From the beginning of time, from the origin, without an end. How could I have forgotten..." With his free hook he covered his trembling lips while an inner fight erupted in him. " Ab aeterno, ab origine, ad infinitum. Consilio et animis." The cat like eyes of the old king laid upon the wardrobe. He knew what was within it not only because Moonwing told him about its content. It was a very old habit of his to place an object that represented his authority but also his burden. Without any hesitation Eridanus opened the wardrobe and look upon the very objected that often lead to wars. Laid upon an old looking red pillow rested the crown of the Nocturian Kings. Simple in its design its shear age made Eridnaus take an uncontrolled step back. So many before him were wearing it and for over a millennium it remained untouched. At least that's what he believed.

The king took a deep breath and hid the small portray in one of his many pockets of his attire. Then he bowed down, a sight many would never see, and with both his hooks he lifted the crown made of solid gold. Light of the candles made it shine while he inspected both his pride and burden. His Greenling companion did not dare to get closer to the shiny object which was something quite strange, thinking about the fact that it approached a king without fear.

"It seems you also can feel what kind of power seems to emit out of it. The true power resides there where everybody thinks it resides. Trust me my tiny friend it is only a delusion created by the subjects. Yet now I will require this delusion more than ever." Without any doubt and hesitation the stallion placed what was rightfully belonging to him on his head. Right away the weight became a burden to his weak muscles, but he was too proud to take it off now.

" Consilio et animis.. By Wisdom and Courage. I shall no longer remain in this prison of mine!" Quickly he walked towards the other wardrobes and searched for his better attire. Some of them were covered with dust, showing how long it has been since he last wore them. The bug was watching the scene from above wondering what the huge stallion was up to. In mere moments the King looked at himself in the mirror and for the first time after his sudden awakening he did not see a broken being, but a being full of determination.

< Honored ancestors... give me strength and wisdom so I may protect your legacy. > Eridanus started to take a very long breath until it felt like his lungs were about rip apart. With teary ears, which were not caused by the pain in the chest, the King under the Mountain let out a sound only Batwings could hear. Professors called that it Ultrasonic Sounds, but Eridanus had other plans in his mind. While he was taking this very deep breath he also started to cast a spell, which would allow him to strengthen the sound allowing any living being to hear it. Some may think that the sound would sound terrible, deafening... the truth was different though.

It was a beautiful sound that was taught to him while he was a child. He was singing. And the song was about his return. Once he ran out of air the Underworld became quiet until the sound of hooves announced that ponies were running towards him. Moonwing ran in first and the door she stooped. The guards ran into her, but for some reason they did not manage to push her forward. All of them were looking at him like he would be a ghost. Again the King let out the sound, but this time it was only directed at them. It was message even a small child could understand.

Moonwing embraced the sound of her father like she would embrace the wind and although she was smiling happily she was also crying. She did not hear the song of her fatherfor a millennium. Without any words she simply ran towards her father and pushed her head against his chest. Eridanus welcomed her with a very long hug while his Greenling friend was circling happily around them.

"Yes I have returned." He wiped away her tears like he has done it countless times while she was still a filly. "And I will need your help to protect our legacy." Once more he started to sing and soon the beautiful sound of his daughter followed. The caverns transported their song deep within their Underground Kingdom.

In the mines of the Diamond Dogs, which are filled with the most beautiful crystals and rarest stones hidden beneath the earth, the stones were suddenly filled with warm light like in the old times. In the large territories and labyrinths of the mighty Minotaurs the song of their Monarchs mixed up with the sound of the smiths working on the finest metals. And in the caverns of the hardworking Satyr’s the grey forest of stone turned into sapphire, and the mushrooms long forgotten started to grow and pulse with life again. But most importantly the message also reached ponies of the Underground. Their song became a message for their subjects and brought new hope to them through the mighty caves and tunnels.

The King under the Mountain has returned at last.

Chapter 9

View Online

Everything around her was colorless and blurry. Unable to recognize the various shapes and forms of objects, or even living beings, Twilight could only look upon them with half opened eyes. She could hear voices, but they were spoken in a language which she did not know nor understand. Other sounds were mixing themselves among the voices of blurry creatures around her, creating a rather chaotic sounding orchestra. A terrible headache caused the lavender mare to let out a painful moan and with the remaining strength, which was absurdly low; she tried to open her eyes completely. Right away this decision turned into a very bad and unpleasant choice. It seemed that not so far away from her was a camp fire.

As much as she welcomed its warm touch the light seemed to cut into her eyes. The moan lured the attention of the beings around her and all of the sudden Twilight was surrounded by them. They were so close to each other that it seemed that they were melting into one huge atrocity born of shadows. Fear took hold of her heart and a basic instinct of survival assumed control over her. But it was no use. Her body felt numb and was not responding to the Alicorn’s will. The mare kept struggling against the shock and fear, but no matter what she did, no matter what she asked or begged for, the body simply remained where it was.

In the end the feeling of failure took hold of her and the last signs of rational thinking were ripped apart. Tears filled her eyes and made the already twisted world look even worse. The creatures around her, probably confused, noticed her behavior. One of the spoke with a very deep bone chilling sound, making the other creatures take a few steps away from her. Not all did follow the order, at least she thought it was an order, for they remained close to the big bulky shadow. They were talking with each other like everything was just fine. It only made it worse for the poor Twilight who kept sobbing. The defiantly smaller shape came closer to her, and pressed something against her cheeks.
Right away she recognized the object as a handkerchief. The obscure being wiped away her tears and spoke with a soft and caring voice. Sadly she could not understand any of it, but deep in her heart she was glad that a good soul tried to calm her down. In that moment her body moved on its own, and without any control Twilight leaned her head against the creature. She felt soft cloth on her skin and with great relief the mare recognized female perfume. The foreign smell filled her nostrils and made her eyes feel heavy. The world which was merely formed out of shadows and impossible forms turned into a huge black field.

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Everybody was watching the poor Princess of Equestria falling asleep in the arms of Marie. The satyr lady, who was probably as surprised as the others, gently placed Twilight’s head on her lap. For Lyria it was a cute scene to look upon despite of the sad event that took place moments ago. Marie was a very old and good friend who has accompanied her and Borealis for many years during their service to the crown. She was a very gifted physician, but also the representative of her people on this crucial mission. Right now she was wearing her nearly worn out white physician uniform which she simply could not get rid off.

As worn out as it was the uniform hugged her body tightly and presented, and even showed off, the pretty curves and forms of the female Satyr. Her fur had a pretty dark nut brown color and her cute horns, which were going out of her head next to her ears, had the color of ivory. To be honest despite Marie being a so called Humanoid being, like the Minotaurs and Diamond Dogs, her beauty did make the female Batwing feel a little bit jealous. Since they first mission her friend got a lot of attention from males (some among them were even Ponies). But to Lyria’s great surprise Marie stated that she disliked having all the eyes laid upon her. Especially since most of the time the message written in them was the unholy desires of males. This thought made Lyria shiver.

“How does Twilight feel?” Borealis was sitting not so far away from the campfire. Right now he was filling his trusty old hickory pipe with flavored moss. Her heart started to beat stronger after looking upon him because it woke up a memory of their first encounter. Back in the time while she was still a bloody beginner Lyria was entrusted with a mission beyond the level of her experience. Intrigue was something not uncommon among the royal houses of Nocturia, and since she was a beginner nobody suspected her to carry out an important message to the Satyrs. What she was not aware of back then was the fact that she would not travel alone. Borealis was waiting for her at the main gate of a city which was sadly no more, filling up his pipe with the very same moss.

This memory always made her giggle because for the first time a stallion has called her a lady. But the very fact that Borealis noticed that his message might have been misunderstood simply burned intself into Lyria's memory. Back then she disliked the idea of having a stallion travel with her. Even worse a stallion who was using a pipe with terrible scent of moss which caused her a headache for a very long time. She got used to it though even tried it out a few times, and to her great surprise it tasted delicious (sadly the smoke still remained unbearable for her nose if inhaling it too long).

“She is very exhausted, but besides that she will be fine.” Marie answered and place her hand on the forehead of the sickly Alicorn princess. “The fever is gone thanks to the herbs I gave her. The cause of all this was the overuse of magic in a very bad time.”

“Bad time? What do you mean?” Borealis took a deep breath from his pipe and let out small circles of smoke into the air. The circles followed the flow of the smoke towards a natural opening in the cave. Otherwise the group would have suffocated from the smoke hours ago. The two females simply looked at him like he would've been a small colt and smiled at his ignorance. “Oh… her menstruation started?”

“You do not have to know all the details.” Maries let her free hand glide through her hair. She winked at Lyria who winked back. ”During this time the overuse of magic, stress factors and lack of sleep can lead to such unwanted results. She was lucky that we were close or things might have gotten worse.”

“When will she recover from it?” Everybody looked to the other side of the small cave. Leaned against the solid wall of stone rested another member of this quite colorful group. His name was Pavel Gemcrusher of the clan Silvermane, and he was probably the most keen Diamond Dog Lyria have ever counted as a friend. His spotted grayish fur showed signs of very fine and delicate gem powder. Especially his beard, which he cared for like it would be his own child, was especially covered with it. Simple in nature and size it was a very interesting sight to look upon. He was wearing fine and very richly decorated clothes which were representing his status among the subjects. A very old leather hat was covering his face, protecting its wearer from the light of the fire (if one would ignore the fact that it had holes here and there). The Silvermanes are the oldest known clan in the history of the Underground, and they are hailed as the most cunning jeweler crafters, gold smiths, gem cutters, crystal shapers and most importantly stone masons. One would right away recognize what profession Pavel was specializing in. In a time long past Lyria asked him why they were calling him Gemcrusher. Her Diamond Dog friend chuckled and pulled out a beautiful Gem out of his many pockets of his jackett, and right in front of her he simply crushed it with his bare hand like it would be made out of glass.

< I can't answer your question directly my dear. Me good old mother claimed I was able to do so while I was still a young pup. Some people of my clan claim that I have inherited the strength of my grand grandfather Isaac. Maybe it is true maybe not... but trust me I was a pain in the ar... ehem flank for my teachers back then. >

Like Marie and herself Pavel was another important member of this group. He was the voice of the Diamond Dogs and the Silvermane clan here in the distant land of Equestria. As far the information's brought by merchants were true his race had a rather bad reputation in this part of the known world. Mostly due to the landless and greedy Diamond Dog deserters or illegal gem hunters. Deep in her heart Lyria was hoping that Pavel would show the ponies the true nature of his kind. Still not looking at the group the Diamond Dog Delegate was simply trying to have a nap. How on earth he was finding it comfortable on the cold and hard stone remained a mystery.

"I am not sure Pavel." Said Marie and sighed while covering Twilight with her own cloak. "I can only assume that due to our unannounced appearance Princess Twilight forgot about her menstruation. Many claim that the teleportation spell is an easy one, but the truth is that it requires tremendous concentration and focus of magic. She simply overused her magical abilities. Let her rest for a while and in no time she will recover from it."

Borealis remained silent while he was listening to his companions. Right now he was scratching his chin with his hook, showing everybody who knew him that he was about to lose himself in his thoughts. The unexpected event that took place not even a hour ago might slow down the entire mission Lyria was aware of that. Since the first journey the Batwing lady learned how to read the stallion's body language, and it was obvious that the delay was deeply bothering him.

"Have the twins returned yet?" He asked and looked towards the exit and entrance to the cave.

"No." A very deep voice answered Borealis's question with a slight trace of boredom and annoyance. Following the example of Pavel the last politically important individual was leaning against the cold stone wall. And there he stood tall, proud and strong, but at the end of his patience (which rarely happened) Arranak Stoutheart the Delegate of the Minotaurs. Arranak was, like most of his kind, very muscular and broad, but he was also the oldest member of this crucial political mission. His cobalt colored fur showed signs of his age, which he desperately tried to hide under his attire. The horns, which were a little bit over his temple, were not his natural horns. Made out of solid and rare metal called Mithril, or the Blood of the Mountain as the Minotaurs called it, were decorated with beautiful runes, which were not only showing the skilled craftsmanship of his kind, but also adapted to the light in various ways, making them unique at any time or occasion.

Three long, and properly tended whiskers were decorating his face and chin, which was not only giving him a quite characteristic appearance, but also granted him an aura of experience. Sadly the most noticeable thing about this lad was the missing right arm. Both horns and arm were lost to him ages ago he once claimed.

Lyria's first encounter with Arranak was very unusual. While being off duty she went into the markets, hoping to buy some food and perhaps new clothes or jewelry. Suddenly she heard loud laughter and the air was filled with the heavy scent of alcohol. Right away the source of the foul smell and sound appeared in front of her. Three young Minotaurs were pestering an elder of their own kind. Most things they spoke were not understandable, and the burping and laughter simply made communication with them impossible. Lyria noticed the one armed elder and without hesitation she jumped between them and yelled to leave him alone. But she forgot the strength of the drunken brutes and was nearly slapped unconscious. Arranak's imploded after seeing what they did to a female, and although he had only one arm he struck them down and made them run away.

After this incident he highly apologized for this dishonorable behavior of the younglings and invited her for a cup of tea. She did not refuse because the world was still shaking for her, and with the help of the kind elder they went to his house and quickly became good friends. Eventually the curiosity won and she humbly apologized that she stated the question about his arm. Arranak laughed, gave her a piece of delicious cake and started his story.

< I was wandering with some merchants back then. We both know how dangerous our home can be, and I am not talking about its wildlife. I can still remember the thundering sound roaring like a mighty beast, and how the world of stone started to crumble and collapse around us. There was a mare heavy with child in one of the caravans carts. She was simply left by the merchants in it... I took her and ran as fast as I could from the danger zone. A huge boulder hit not so far away from us, breaking into hundreds maybe thousand pieces. I shielded the mare, but in the end we were buried alive. My arm was completely crushed, my once proud and mighty horns broke like sticks. And while we were struggling for survival the birth suddenly started. To aid the young mare I cut my arm off, and together we survived that traumatic experience. Where two were buried three have been rescued. An arm for two lives... *He smiled at her, showing that he regretted nothing* Sounds like a good deal to me. >

The way he said the last words made Lyria cry back then, and days later, while she was on her duty again, she received an order of delivering a very important letter to the local Minotaur Delegate. To her big surprise she met her friend again and both laughed about not knowing that they were sharing the same profession. Since then he often accompanied her and Borealis, often turning the tide of aggression into peaceful resolution.

"I still think it was a bad idea to let the twins fly off like that." Since he heard that Borealis allowed them to enjoy the beauty of Equestria he was expressing his annoyance about it. "The last time you did that they got lost."

"What was in the past remains in the past old friend." The stallion emptied his pipe, cleared it with his small tool, which he was caring always with him, and smiled at the annoyed elder. The Minotaur only let out an annoyed huff, letting out hot air out of his nostrils. "Or do you claim that you were not curious about the world in their age hmm?"

"I deny nothing, but also I had enough self discipline to take my work serious." He looked at the group and shook his head at the sight of Pavel. "With each passing hour my concern starts to turn into fear. We must make sure that our task will not fail. Any unnecessary distractions or problems may ruin everything."

"I can give you some herbs or a tea to calm you down Arranak." Said Marie who managed to place Twilight on her own bed roll. "You know that too much stress will not make you and your heart any good."

"Please Arranak listen to Marie and accept her help. We will need your undisputable experience and more importantly your voice on the upcoming meeting with the Princesses. If you will fall ill you will not help our cause and only slow down our return." Lyria smiled at her old Minotaur friend which she affected with her appraise, but also her logical conclusion. He sighed loudly and nod.

"As always you are right mylady." He bowed graciously for the two beauties and moved towards them. "And yes I assume a cup of tea would do good for me and my oh so poor heart." He smiled warmly and made Marie chuckle.

"As old your heart might be it beats stronger than any hammer in the Vale of Smiths." The Satyr lady walked towards her bags and, started to search for the necessary reagents for Arranak's tea.

"Do not worry about the twins lad. They may be a lil' bit green behind their ears, but they are smarter than the *royals* I know." Pavel lifted his hat and grinned at his Minotaur friend, revealing his sharp fangs (Some were golden. Not a big surprise.) "And if any lusty stallions will try to hit on them, they will quickly learn that our beautiful Nocturian ladies not only have good taste, but also know how to defend themselves both verbally and physically."

"I can only agree on that." Borealis laughed and winked at Lyria who smiled happily, but also rolled her eyes.

"Well that explains why you are single." Said Marie without any warning and all started to laugh loudly especially Pavel who applauded the sharp tongue of a Nocturian female, which only confirmed his statement.

"Oh by the way Borealis." Arranak sat down next to him and stretched his back. "The wind brought by the Pegasi seems to have moved away from Ponyville and Canterlot. You or dear Lyria should use this opportunity and inform the Princesses about Twilight Sparkle's current condition. They are probably worried already."

"I was waiting for such turn of events Arranak. Thank you." He stood up and opened his wings fully, which often made Lyria hold her breath. As funny as it may sound the Batwings were strongly allured by the wings, especially the females. Her behavior was noticed by Marie, but she kept it for herself and only smiled at her friend. But it turned out that Borealis also noticed it, or better said did it intentionally because his eyes were looking upon her. This only made Lyria blush prettily, and even make her tufted ears turn slightly purple. And to her great surprise he walked towards her and offered his hook to help her get up.

Not sure what he was up to she only placed her hook and his and stood up. All eyes in the cave were laid upon them, Lyria could feel it although the world around her was only focusing on her love. Written in his cat like eyes was a simple massage.

< It is time. >

Her heart started to beat faster and her breathing also increased. The only thing she could do was to take her place at his side, still feeling his hook gently holding hers.

"My dear friends I would like to announce something." He was obviously nervous, but he tried to hide it under his mask he wore as a Delegate. "We were working together for many years. Together we have accomplished things which helped the Nocturian society to prosper and most importantly survive dire times. We are the living example of what all races bounded together can accomplish in the harsh world of the Underground. Without you and your support Lyria and I would have failed countless times and for that I thank you from all my heart."
The Delegates of Noctura were listening to him like they would be under a spell. They knew that he was not ready yet which is why they did not dare to say something.

"I would like to announce something in front of you. You are the best friends a Batwing could ever had beneath the Earth. You are my family. And for that I want you to know something that was well hidden away for many years." He looked at Lyria and nuzzled her gently. She nuzzled back and leaned her head against her heart, feeling like a heavy stone was taken off her back.

"Before me stands the mare of my life. I love her with all my heart... but by her bidding we were hiding our feeling for so many years. The charade is over! I will no longer participate in it, and the only thing that I will be hiding is the shame of mine." Only with obvious hesitation he managed to free his eyes of hers, and look upon his friends who came even closer to them. "I take you as my witnesses for the thing that I will ask now."

After saying it he fell to his knees, pulled out a small wonderfully carved box of wood. Lyria did not have to ask what was in it. She let out a small cry and covered her mouth with the free hook. Borealis said a word towards the box, and a mechanical *click* came out of it. Slowly it started to open up and a melody started to play. It was a melody her mother used to sing for her while she was still a filly. She always claimed that this melody was very important to her because while it was playing her father asked her to become his wife. And now after so many, many years Borealis was kneeling before her, the melody was filling the air and he spoke the magical words in their mystical langauge.

"Mela en' coiamin... Hervu nin." < Love of my life... marry me. >

The ring appeared and showed itself shyly for a small crystal from within the box was delicately shrouding it in its light. Everybody let out a sigh after seeing the ring, especially Pavel who dared to say.

"My, my... I shall be damned. This is a cushion shaped Tanzanite." Everybody was looking at the so called Tanzanite which had a beautiful dark blue color. "It is surrounded by sparkling micropavé Diamonds, on each side of the ring are accented with blue sapphires and everything is surrounded by 18k white gold." Nobody was interested in that kind of detail, but it was in his nature to notice such things right away. "This is truly a treasure worth for a queen."

Lyria was speechless and it seemed that she had no more air in her lungs. Only the sound of the cracking wood in the camp fire could be heard in the cave. First she thought that it was only a dream until she felt the grip of Borealis's hook tensing around hers. The female Batwing noticed that expectation, love, happiness, but also fear was written in his eyes. Then she realized that everything was true, and her eyes started to fill with tears. Without any control she started to cry.

"Y-yes..." She managed to let out a sound (even if it was not in their language), but it was not loud enough which is why she started to repeat it. "Yes. Yes. Yes! Yes!!" And before Borealis could place the ring on her hook she pounced him and gave him a very long kiss. A kiss he did not resist.

Their friends were cheering at the couple. Marie was jumping happily in one place and yelling the best wishes for her friends, Pavel decided to open his bottle filled with the best wine he only opened in times of need, and Arranak wiped his tears away with his remaining hand. It was something they would remember to the end of their life, and although Borealis had to leave and inform the Princesses about Twilight he knew that for now on, and to the end of his days somepony would be waiting for his return.

It was something that did not only give him courage and strength, but also another purpose of staying alive. The charade was over and with it a new life and challenges started.

Chapter 10

View Online

Princess Celestia was restless for quite a while. The sudden and most unexpected visit from the Batwing Delegate turned everything upside down. Little was known about the origin of this pony kind despite of them being the part of the Night Guard. Princess Luna was trying to find out as much as possible from her Guards, but her work was fruitless for it seemed they did not know much about it either. Yet Luna claimed that every time the topic about the Heritage came up their eyes seemed to darken a bit. Like they would look far into the distance or simply losing themselves in their thoughts.

Next to the Princess floated the message she has received from Borealis. It was surrounded by the golden color of her magic which seemed to lose itself in the light of the day. Many time she has read the message from King Eridanus and every time she went through the lines she could literally feel the sadness behind every word.

Your Royal Highnesses: -

I am Eridanus, the first of my name, Guardian of the Underground, and the rightful Ruler of Nocturia.

May your reign be long, and bring fourth happiness, wealth and peace to your beloved subjects.

Deep in my heart I have hoped that I could bring this message personally to you, but my recent health problems did not allow me to fulfill it.
Many years have passed since the last message I have send to Equestria, but it has never been my intention to fall silent for so long. Due to a terrible accident I was in a coma for all these years, which is why I beg your pardon for the Silence that has befallen our Nations. My most trusted Delegates will explain everything properly in the right time.

With this letter I hope to find understanding and help for my Kingdom, but most importantly my beloved Subjects. While I was away things have changed without any control. You must know, Your Highnesses, that I do not only rule over ponies, but also three other races which inhabit the rough world of the Underground.

Which are the honorable tribes of Minotaurs, Diamond Dogs and Satyrs.

To survive in a vast world surrounded by walls of earth and stone our kind had to learn from the three mentioned races. For they have lived under the Earth longer than ponies. Together we were able to create an unlike civilization which populated the Earth beneath the Earth.

First we were bound only by trading. The ponies under the Rule of my ancestors created the Kingdom called Nocturia. Eventually the three races recognized that joining Nocturia would ensure peace, wealth and safety for all intelligent inhabitants of the Underground.

Our Kingdom grew stronger and with it our numbers which forced us to expand deeper into the earth. It was one of my very first declarations as a king. I fear that this declaration was the main key that drove the dagger into the heart of Nocturia. We went far too deep into the earth... and in our ignorance we found things which should have remained isolated.

After my accident, and the sudden comma, the Tribes had to find somebody to take watch over the nation in my absent. As you probably imagine every Tribe suggested one of its own to take control over the Kingdom. Thus the old bounds of friendship nearly ripped apart and with it the Nocturian Unity. Thanks to my children any kind of aggression was stopped, but I have a feeling that the time of negotiations will soon have an end.

We have been watching Equestria prosper under Your righteous rule since its foundation. Which is why I dared to write this letter and ask, no, beg for your help.

The stunning knowledge and wisdom about friendship and love is indubitable, and probably the only cure that might save the kingdom of Noctura. During my absence my beloved subjects have forgotten what has shaped us into what we are. And now I fear that the legacy of my ancestors is endangered by those I've sworn to protect.

I thought that I could have solved it on my own, but my own arrogance might have lead to the end of Nocturia. The weight of the crown burdens me and my broken body. I only wish peace between the Tribes and not the strife that grows stronger with each passing day. Deep in my heart I feel that my time will come to an end faster than I have hoped for.

No king rules forever.

My father told me that while I was merely a small colt. Before I will dare to look into the eyes of my ancestors I must ensure that their hard work and sacrifices were not for nothing.

Which is why I beg for your help Your Highnesses.

Yours sincerely

King Eridanus

At first Celestia thought that Eridanus was focusing upon his own desires, and not on the security of his subjects. But after reading the letter over and over again she realized that this was not true. The King under the Mountain was truly a wise leader. To admit own failures was a very hard thing to do, but to admit it to a pony he did not know showed that he cared more for his subjects than for himself. Deep in her heart Celestia wished to see the Kingdom of Nocturia. Sadly she was aware of the fact that this would be not possible.

As much as she desired to learn more about their *Allies* she knew that her priorities belonged to her own subjects and the duties bestowed upon her back. With a delicate sigh she rolled the letter with her magic and kept walking through the famed corridor of stained glasses. Time seemed to not pass at all while she watched how the light of her sun was enchanting the stained glass depictions. At the very first sight it seemed like the characters on the surface of the glass were moving. Truly a beautiful spectacle to behold.

Suddenly the silence was cut by the sound of banded hooves. One of her Guards ran towards her with rather impressive speed. Once he reached her quickly he bowed before her and took off his helmet. After taking a few breaths he stated:

"Princess Celestia."

"I am listening. Please go on."

"The Nocturian Delegate just arrived at our gates."

"Did you take any necessary precautions I have instructed?" Asked Celestia and hid the message under her wing. The guard seemed to be worried about something. His body language was telling her more than he did.

"Of course Princess. But this is not the reason I am here." Sweat ran down his face which he quickly wiped away with his hoof. Maybe she should lower the sun's intensity just a tiny bit? "Princess Twilight is not with him. It seems that something happened to her."

Shocked about this message Celestia remained speechless for a moment. As fast as it as fast it went away. She regained control over her emotions and stature and demanded more information from the guard. What she did not realize first that her demand was rather harsh and she even made a dangerously looking step towards him. The stallion did not move even an inch, but the princess could see that he did not expect that kind of move towards him.

"The Delegate wishes to speak with you immediately."

"So do I." After that answer she simply ran pass by the Guard and walked towards the meeting room. There she was usually meeting with Delegates from all the parts of the world. The throne room was more suited for welcoming them than openly talking about delicate matters as the security of the nation as an example. With a swift spell she flung the door open and entered the meeting room. As expected Borealis was awaiting her arrival.

Like the Guard he was sweating a bit. The only logical conclusion was that he flew all the way back to Canterlot on his own. Like during their first meeting they exchanged the pleasantries and greetings only to get into the bottom of Twilight Sparkle's absence. Borealis seemed to be bothered by something and asked her to tell her what truly happened through whispering. Once he quickly explained what happened he took a respectful steps back from her and awaited her reaction.

"I have to say... that I did not expect something like that happening to Twilight." It was something that happened at least once to a Unicorn mare once she has reached the right age. This was explaining why Borealis felt so unpleasant in delivering her that kind of information. "I am grateful that you took good care of her. If I understood you correctly you are not the only Delegate send here by your King?"

"Yes Mylady it is true. Together with me four other Delegates traveled to Equestria. We represent our tribes on this delicate and crucial mission. I sincerely hope that our appearance will not cause any trouble."

"Why did you not mention that others would follow you?"

The smile on Borealis's face faded away for a moment, and the irises of his eyes became smaller. If not for the fact that she asked him that question Celestia could assume that he was preparing for an attack.

"I am a simple stallion who follows his orders Mylady. There are many individuals who would like to see our mission fail Your Highness. As much as it bothers me to admit it... the collapse of the main tunnel leading out of our mountains was not an accident. It was an attempt to stop us from reaching our destination. Many civilians have been wounded because of our mission, and I shudder to imagine how many paid with their lives for it. Lady Lyria asked me to leave the group and reach you on my own... in case if somebody would try to stop us again. After leaving the mountains though our enemies stopped to pursue us. I can only assume they think we died during the collapse."

" You were not sure if your fellow Delegates have made it to Equestria. This is the reason why you asked to move our meeting so you could see if they have survived."

Borealis did not look into her eyes while he gave the princess the answer through a nod. Shame was written in his facial expression, but on the other side Celestia spotted signs of relief. It was obvious that he went through a lot of stress lately. Only in this moment she was able to see how professionally he used his mask, which he has worn to hide his feelings during their first meeting. Not everypony is able to do so which is why she felt a deep respect for him.

"I am glad that your friends have made it to Equestria. The only thing that I find uncalled for is to let them stay outside of the castle. I will not allow that such special guests will hide in caves, while they could find some rest in suitable chambers here in my castle."

The tense posture vanished like a mist from the stallion who simply chuckled at her words.

"I can assure you Princess Celestia that my friends were quite happy that they have found a cave to rest in. We are not used to a such wide open world. As beautiful as it is... it does frightens us a little bit"

"Surely I would feel the same once I would be in your Kingdom Borealis." The Princess laughed hearty trying to imagine herself in a tunnel.

"Oh our world is full of surprises. Colossal caves are spreading everywhere. If not for the fact that not the sun is the main source of light in my homeland, one could think he is still on the surface."

"May I ask you a few things about Nocturia Borealis? I have to admit that I am really curious about it."

"I will gladly answer any questions Mylady. But please understand that I am not allowed to speak about everything. Certain things should remain unspoken."

"We all have our secrets Borealis. I respect that."

"Thank you." He bowed down gracefully and made one of his interesting looking gestures with his hooks. "What would you like to know about my homeland?"

"Prepare yourself dear Delegate. For I have many questions."

"I hope I will be able to answer them Mylady."

"But before you will do that..." She came closer to him and smiled. "I will highly suggest to let your friends come to Canterlot. The meeting will be moved for the night. My dearest sister asked me for that and I think she would be a great asset in assisting Nocturia."

"You are as wise as you are beautiful Princess Celestia. In that case I shall fly off right away and get them to your glorious castle."

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"He sure takes his time..." Arranak was keeping his watch over the entrance of the cave. Lyria decided to accompany him on his watch despite his pleads to find some rest. From the whole group he seemed to barely sleep. The mighty Minotaur was holding his trusty walking stick in his remaining arm. Compared to his attire the simply carved stick did not match at all, but everything had its purpose. For a blade was hidden with the shaft.

< The hidden blade is the deadliest Lyria. Never forget it. >

Arranak's words echoed in her mind while she looked outside of the cave. Several hours have passed since her heart left the cave. She was aware of it that Canterlot was far away, but she had to agree with her Minotaur friend that Borealis was long away. The elder Delegate noticed the concern in her eyes and how she was holding the ring he gave her. His huge hand touched her hooks and gently held like she would be made out of porcelain.

"I am happy for you two." As simple as this statement was the batwing lady could see the honesty in the smile of her very old friend. Once while they were on their own she asked if he had a wife. Arranak was one of few Minotaurs who reached a very high age. Due to their rater warrior like society many Minotaurs died in a rather young age. He claimed that he had several wives in his lifetime. Most of them were lost in raids. Taken away by marauders or killed. His fifth wife though remained his life partner for good. Both of them met each other while representing their clans on the great "Tauron summit" as they called it.

Their arranged married has strengthen both clans, and what first appeared to be a political move quickly turned to love. If Arranak was not lying she gave him five children. Four girls and one boy.

"I really am."

"Thank you Arranak. Thank you."

Lyria looked back into the cave and watched how Marie was looking after Twilight Sparkle. In her delicate hands she was holding four cards. Near the camp fire Pavel was awaiting her return eagerly. Often while they had nothing better to do they both played cards to kill time. Lyria had to fight against an uncontrolled laugh attack after recalling them playing cards while being heavily drunk. Since they had no gems or money to play for they decided to play strip poker. At first the Satry lady was losing heavily until she was wearing only her underwear.

But it turned out that she was only teasing Pavel with her body. In the end she managed to strip the Diamond Dog to the last piece of cloth. Both then fell asleep on the pile of clothes only to wake up late in the next day. First terrified that they have slept with each other they tried to avoid themselves until Aaranak scolded them that he would not allow a lusty Diamond Dog to use a drunken woman under his watch. Both remained good friends and kept playing cards (only under the strict rule of never playing strip poker of course). In the corner of the cave the two Batwing twins were sleeping after a very exhausting travel among the land. The sisters received a very harsh lesson from the grumpy Minotaur who was simply worried about their well being. It was not a surprise though for he was treating them as they would be his own daughters. He found them all alone in the alleys of his city and raised them as their own. Until this day the Twins call him "Horned Father" a very respectful title in the Nocturian society. Before the elder returned to his post he watched over the two batwings until they have fallen asleep (he even covered them with his very expensive coat to protect them from the cold ground).

Deep in her heart Lyria believed that they all were his children because often all of them came to him with questions or problems. He always seemed to know what to answer or to say in the given moment, and he never lied to them even if it might hurt.

< A lie that might be exposed later will hurt you more than the actual truth. Trust me on that. Although sometimes we must lie for the greater good... I personally prefer to tell the truth right away. >

"I am not sure when we will be able to marry... but I would be honored if you would be our witness during the ceremony Arranak..."

It was tradition among the six existing tribes to have at least one member of the different races to be the witness during the weeding. As strange as it may sound this tradition has strengthen the friendship between the races for countless generations. Aaranak was not prepared for that because he nearly let his walking stick fall to the ground. Usually the pony race took other members of the pony race as witnesses. But she would rather have him as a witness than a cousin which she barely knew. First she was afraid that he had a heart attack, but the shock faded away and the elder hugged the far smaller mare with a bear hug.

"Oh my dearest little friend. You honor me and my family with this proposition." Tears of joy ran down his face while he hugged her. Lyria was not able to see it though because she was barely breathing. Pavel and Marie noticed the rather unusual behavior of the mighty Minotaur, but eventually they simply returned to their game. Marie's sharp curses only proved that she was losing.

"By my blood, no matter where your journeys shall lead you, the Minotaur clans will know about your marriage with Borealis." News spread under the earth like fire which is why she put full trust into his words. A sudden wind blow managed to win the attention of Arranak and he gently let go of the mare (who happily gasped after breath). She could recognize the wind vibration with ease. The wind blow was created by the wings of her husband.

Borealis entered the cave breathing rather heavily. One could say that the Batwing was tossed into water, but the truth was that he was flying like a maniac.

"HUUUUUH... Gather everything." He took a deep breath and welcomed the cold stone of the cave like an old friend. "We have been summoned to Canterlot. Tonight we might change the fate of our nation!"

Chapter 11

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"You took your sweet time back at Canterlot Borealis." Said Arranak who, like the rest of the group, was changing his traveling clothes for an attire suitable of meeting royals. It would take a while until they would be able to start their journey to the castle. Mostly due to the females who were making sure to represent their kind along with their own beauty with proper dignity. Their silent chuckles were echoing in the cave like whispers of ghosts, which made Borealis feel a little bit uncomfortable. In the mean time the stallion was able to take a bath and was about to put on his own richly crafted attire. One of the twins came back from the forest with a bag full of berries not so long ago and caught Borealis *naked*.

As strange as it may sound throughout the years the Nocturians started to wear clothes on a regular basis like the rest of the races living under the Mountain. The ponies had no problem with the biddings of their allies and since then they learned to live like that till this very day. This regulation was only a few generations old though. In certain parts of the Nocturian kingdom you could find ponies wearing nothing, but in the end it will probably die out. New generations know only that kind of life style and often declare that wearing nothing was crude and even barbaric.

After seeing him naked the twin quickly ran into the cave with a face so red Arranak claimed he could see her colors even in the dark. His laughter made it only worse for the poor youngling.

"Since our arrival we received no messages from our Kingdom. This worries me deeply... especially because we tried to establish a connection through the Chalice." Arranak let out a very long and depressed sigh. For a moment he dropped the mask he was wearing for the subjects, and all of the sudden signs of his age were more noticeable than usual. The elder Minotaur was tired, and very sad.

"After the last assault upon us... many younglings of my tribe sacrificed their lives for us to continue our mission. A mission which might bring nothing than disappointment, and a killing blow for the hope, which we barely managed to ignite."

With his remaining hand Arranak reached after his fake horns and started to loosen them. He placed them carefully next to his back bag and rubbed his muscular neck. In the right hands mithril would weight nothing and provide significant protection where iron would have failed. The horns were crafted in a different way though. Usually mithril required a certain amount of time to adapt to the work of a smith. Whoever made the horns did not wait at all, and shaped the horns in the natural form of the ore. The weight Arranak was carrying with him all day was astonishing. Borealis once tried to lift one horn with his hooks, and barely managed to lift it up to his chest. Laughter and jests were thrown at him until he let others try to do what he just did.

The jests and laughter ended as fast as they came.

"It is of upmost importance that we will not kill the hope we are holding on Arranak. Otherwise your words will become reality. This is something we cannot allow to happen. Besides that I trust the Royal Sisters and Twilight Sparkle. We must learn to trust others master..."

"I am nobody's master... how often am I supposed to tell you that boy." Usually the horned Delegate snapped at everybody who called him master. Until now he never explained why he despites to be called master by others. "But you are right lad. If I will allow weakness and doubts take hold upon me it will only cloud my mind and with it lead to false decisions."

Slowly his hand went under the grey shirt he was wearing, and pulled out a small necklace. The small object looked very fragile in the great hand of the Minotaur, but he was holding it like he would hold a new born child. On its side there was a small button which activated the hidden mechanism within. With a barely noticeable sound it opened and revealed a touching picture of Arranak and his family. His eyes were looking at it like it would be the only remaining ember of light in a world of darkness. "We all have something worth fighting for." With a quick move of his fingers he closed the necklace and hid it under his shirt. Besides the silent voices of the females and the sound of Pavel playing with a ruby there was only silence. Borealis knew that it would be for the best to leave him alone for a moment.

While Arranak continued to change his clothes the stallion's attention belonged to Pavel who kept playing with the ruby. His Diamond Dog friend smiled at him with his wolfish grin.

"I had a small talk with the twins before you came back. They kept talking about Canterlot and its beauty. I usually let that kind of comments not affect me." With his hand he asked him to get closer. Borealis followed his wish and came close enough to hear him whisper. "The females have a different point of view if it comes to beauty my friend, but in that case they might be actually right. Is it true what the twins said about Canterolt my four legged friend?"

"Indeed it is Pavel, but I personally think that no words could properly describe it."

"Gah..." Scratching himself behind the ear Pavel showed Borealis a message only few would understand without any words. Basically it meant that he has lost a bet, but since he was scratching so fast it only meant that he lost a bet with Marie. Arranak was the first who noticed it throughout the countless missions and journeys they went through. Diamond Dogs were not only gifted in craftsmanship, but they also loved the thrill of bets. Some of them even claimed that it was a curse bestowed upon them by the Mountain itself because they were the first who craved for its riches.

"What was it this time hmm?" Asked Borealis and playfully hit Pavel in the shoulder. "Last time you had to carry her bags for over a week."

"Oh compared to what I have to do now I would rather carry her bags for two weeks." He growled annoyed about the situation he got himself into. "I am not allowed to drink anything with alcohol besides Satyr Ale. For a whole month." A noticeable shiver went through the body of the Diamond Dog delegate, like a cold wind of their mountains. It was common knowledge in the group that Pavel hated Satyr Ale beyond anything. The ale itself was not bad, but some Diamond Dogs responded quite unusual to it. Some get drunk only after few sips, others speak only the truth after consuming, but the most hilarious part about it were the harmless hallucinations some consumers had. Unfortunate for Pavel he was speaking only the truth after drinking it.

Marie was as fierce as fire if it came to holding upon a bet or word. A longer while ago the Satry lady lost a bet with her Diamond Dog friend. In a pub called "Whistling Bat" Marie had to perform a traditional Belly Dance of her people, while wearing a very seductive attire. Annoyed about it she danced an entire night in the inn, and with it helped Pavel to pay off his debt to the happy innkeeper. This memory made Borealis smile for they have come to see her dance as well.

"Come on Pavel. A month will pass by quicker than you can say Satyr Ale."

"You know very well that I do like to have some drink from time to time. The annoying part of the bet is that I am supposed to drink the ale with her... at any time she wants it. I am at her service for a month."

"I cannot imagine this group without you two." The stallion was hiding his smirk with his wings, but it was a very predictable move which only made Pavel mumble angrily. "Do not worry too much Pavel. Marie might be like a viper if it comes to holding your word, but she also has a soft spot for you in her heart."

Pavel's wolfish grin seemed to light up the area a little bit. "So do I my friend. So do I. She does know how to wrap me around her finger. Her part of the bet was to sing the symphony of stones."

What the Diamond Dog was talking about was a very special kind of music. Satyrs believe that everything around them has its story and its own sound. Throughout practice of voice and magic they were able to find particular sounds, which were unable to be caught by their ears. Borealis once heard that symphony while visiting the main city of the Satyrs called "Drem" which means Peace in satyr language. The sounds unleashed by their spells were astonishing and very hard to describe. One could compare it to caught sounds of a shell, but it felt more alive and colorful to the listener.

Pavel once claimed that his mother found out that, while he was still a cub, he loved to listen to those symphonies. This explained his love for the music, especially because Marie was very good at it. It was an inborn ability of the Satyr race. For the ancient satyr language was deeply connected to magic, and although it was not directly a spell it had a certain effect on the environment. The best example for this stunning phenomenon are the reactions of the stone trees of the Satyr lands. The trees have been once made out of sapphires but due to an unexplained event they suddenly turned to stone ages ago.

In one of the oldest satyr legends a young female satyr wept over the sudden change of the trees. Her sorrow was so true the trees themselves reacted to her voice. The entire surface of the stone was glowing variously depending what kind of sounds the woman made.
And thus she was the first to find out about the hidden talent of her people. Since that time her bloodline remained the most gifted in this most remarkable talent. The study of such symphonies remains until this day a very important part of the Satyr society. Through Marie's veins flows the blood of the first female "Voice Weaver" as her people tend to call her ancestor. Pavel saw her for the first time in the "Great Stone Theater" of Drem where she was performing an act of the voice for a group of handicapped children.

To the great surprise of all Marie decided to not become the leading Voice Weaver of her family. Her surprised younger sister took the role of the Voice Weaver and was leading the family since. For only few knew that Marie's true ambition and love was tending the ill. Her talent and compassion brought fourth upmost respect from her mentors and those she was taking care of. But her family pleaded her to not simply throw away her heritage and status among the subjects.

Because of her younger sister Marie agreed to participate in the politics of her people. The dedication for both professions was astonishing. During her servitude she encountered Pavel on the way to one of the main wells of a cavern roughly named "Mouth". Injured and robbed of his belongings he was at the verge of death. Without knowing who he really was Marie openly spoke about her thoughts and political dilemmas. One of her greatest wishes was to close the rift between the Diamond Dogs and Satyrs.

Conflict between the tribes of the Underground were common before the creation of Nocturia. In times long passed Satyrs have been often victims to slavery. The males were cheap yet very effective laborers while the females have been abused as sex slaves and even breeding machines. Because of their unique physiology the satyrs are able to successfully reproduce with other races. Although the offspring would be always a Satyr despite the father being a Minotaur as an example. Raping was nothing uncommon for female satyrs back in the dark days. During a diplomatic meeting the first King under the Mountain was shocked to see how Diamond Dogs and Minotaurs were toying around with the fate of intelligent beings.

The elder scrolls provide information about the outrage of the king and his relentless actions against slavery. Once there have been many clans which were earning their living through slavery. Without any warning the forces of justice have attacked the slavers. Their surrender came as fast as the unexpected attack and they have been imprisoned. Not for long though. King Caelen decided that his own justice has been already passed onto the slavers. Whoever remained was given to the former Satyr slaves. For the first time in decades the Satyrs have been granted the chance to strike back at their old masters. None have survived the wrath of the grandfathers, fathers, husbands, brothers and sons who have witnessed the raping of their beloved ones.

Only one time genocide was performed by the Satyrs. Through the King under the Mountain this peaceful race quickly learned that other Minotaur and Diamond Dog clans were not like the slavers which they have known their entire life. The society grew and new relations have been born. Drem was build inside of a huge uncharted cavern and gave the Satyrs a chance to write history on their own.

Back while Marie was tending to Pavel's wounds the Diamond Dog was deeply touched by her dream of peace between both races. Once delivered into safety he openly declared whom she has saved from death. Since that day both worked together in the name of their race. Pavel and Marie are living examples that every race of the Underground could live in peace. Which is why this mission cannot fail.

"It seems that the ladies are finally ready." Scratching his beard Pavel pointed towards the laughing silhouettes which were moving towards them. He stood up and made sure that his own attire was sitting properly. Borealis followed his example and eagerly both awaited the approach of their female companions.

"I was starting to worry if you will eve..." Pavel stopped his sentence after his friends shyly came out from the shadows. Borealis was also breathless after his gaze laid upon the jewels of the group. There they stood ready for the upcoming meeting with the two royal sisters.
Marie was wearing a turquoise dress which was tightly hugging her body. Beautiful patterns which resembled lilies were decorating its entire surface. The lilies pattern was made out of a very expensive magical weave. Thousand small jades were following the shape of the flowers creating a interesting effect which made the viewer believe that energy was flowing through it. A simple yet clear message about Satyr ideology of everything having its own sound and history. The entire dress represented Marie's nature. Serious, experienced, beautiful, sensitive and even seductive. The symbol of her family, a small shard of the stone tree, was decorating her forehead with is rough yet pretty appearance.

Only her right arm was not covered by the expensive cloth but not simply without any reason. For there was another sign in the middle of the arm which was representing Marie as a Delegate. It was a tattoo which was bestowed upon the Satyr throughout the use of magic. Its shape resembled the infinity sign with a loop that was stretching out first only to end up in a path that escaped the loop. Back in the old days every Delegate would receive such sign from the King himself, but since the tragic fall of King Eridanus such signs had to be imitated though simpler kind of magic.

Lyria and the twins had quite similar attires since the sisters were her maidens. Her silver gown looked simple and not suitable for the meeting with royals first. But its true nature came out once light fell upon the cloth. Whoever created this knew his or her craft very well. Under the silver color a pattern was hidden in a quite sneaky way. Various shapes and forms were spreading all over Lyria's gown. A mix of caught moon light and mithril were the key to the webbed enchantment. Like Arranak's horn this pattern was reflecting the light in various ways. Everybody could look upon the spectacle of light without being blinded by it.

The enchantment made it look like something was flowing on Lyria's body. But once the mare moved the spectacle changed and so did the shapes on it. One could say that the gown was telling a tale on its own.

While it was already astonishing to look at the Delegate her maidens were wearing shorter gowns which were pretty matches to their mistresses attire. Obviously all eyes were supposed to focus upon Lyria but the natural beauty of the twins would surely win some views. Every female had the same hair grip with a tumbled emerald. Some may think that it would only be a pretty decoration but the real meaning of it would be known only to few. Diamond Dogs are the most gifted gemstones hunters and shapers throughout the world. Through their knowledge magic and trading between other races became a crucial aspect of the national society.

It was them who taught the other tribes the meaning and effects of the gemstones. Emeralds are supposed to represent hope among their people but also bring reason and wisdom to the wearer. Years ago Pavel gave Marie the fines emerald he has ever own as a sign of his gratitude. While explaining what it was standing for the Satyr was overwhelmed by emotions and apparently (if you can believe his words) she kissed him for that. Since that day their friendship became a pillar for two races, followed up by Arranak who quickly earned their respect and hearts. Since that faithful day Marie was always carrying an emerald with her.

Lyria and the twins also wanted to bear a peace representing hope. If the two royal sisters will recognize the meaning behind will be determined later. Arranak's heavy step echoed in their cave but both Borealis and Pavel were too busy with devouring the females with their eyes. He himself was wearing an impressive tuxedo which was showing off his muscular body. Despite of his age his body remained in a great shape at least from the point of view of Borealis. A short cloak was covering the stump of his missing right arm. The very same infinity sign as on Marie's arm showed that he was a Nocturian Delegate.

"Hi frolok brit Marie." Said Arranak in the Satyr language with a very noticeable Minotaur dialect. Basically he said that she looked beautiful. Marie blushed without any control and smiled shyly at him. Then his gaze fell upon the three mares who were also eager to hear what he had to say about their hard work.

"Lle naa vanima. Oio naa elealla alasse' " He smiled at his friends and children with pride and bowed as graceful as his huge body allowed it.

< You also look beautiful. Ever is thy sight a joy >

Borealis could not stop looking at his future wife. She was emitting an aura which could be described as power but also the willingness to help. More importantly her warm smile made his heart beat faster. Although she was pleased with Arranak's compliment Lyria's full attention belonged to her stallion. Blushing prettily she came closer to and inspected his own attire. Borealis decided to wear not only his best cloths he took with himself but also the breastplate which was given to him by the Princess of Nocturia. With her hooks she fixed a thing and two she found. Once she was one hundred percent satisfied with his looks the mare grasped his hooks with her own.

"It seems that we are ready to go." Smiling she looked at Marie and the twins who were tending to Arranak and Pavel. Both males seemed to be a little bit annoyed but never then less they allowed them to change a thing or two on their attires. "Nearly."

"As much as I am happy that Equestria will aid us... I am still afraid." Borealis lowered his tone so only Lyria could hear him. She simply touched his cheek with her hoof and smiled.

"So am I Borealis. There is no shame in that. Also I would be worried if you would not be afraid to be honest."

"The two royal sisters are awaiting our arrival eagerly my friends. You do not have to worry about the travel. They were kind enough to send us flying chariots and Pegasi soldiers who will deliver us as fast as possible to Canterlot."

After hearing this Pavel turned completely pale. In that moment the Batwing remembered how his Diamond Dog friend was afraid of flying and heights. Marie was on his side already and scratched him behind his ear. She showed experience in her profession because this was the Diamond Dog way of showing that she will be on his side in the time of need. The group left their small refugee and went towards the nearby clearing. Arranak was carefully carrying Twilight in his hands and made sure that she would reach Canterolt in one piece.

As announced the flying chariots and the Pegasi were already expecting them. While others were taking their seats in them Borealis saw how Marie gave Pavel a small bottle. Right away he recognized it not as Satyr Ale but Diamond Dog Whiskey. Eagerly the canine delegate emptied the content of the bottle and thanked his companion for it. With a smile on his face Borealis took his pace next to Lyria. Once they were all aboard the Night Guard gave a signal and they flew in the direction of Canterlot.

< Consilio et animis > By Wisdom and Courage. Thought the Batwing and embraced the winds like an old friend. While Pavel's terrified screech filled the air with its shrill sound. Followed by the hilarious sound of laughing Marie.

A Nocturian Tale

by Corvus Eclipse

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter: 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11