Chapter 1: Against the Grain

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The sun shone brightly upon Canterlot, the surrounding rugged hills that sparsely surrounded the city as well as its keep. The birds were chirping and the insects crawling along the ground. Everything was in its place as it slowly became midday. However, upon one hill there would soon be an abnormality. Soon couldn't come fast enough as a large pony cloaked in a brown cape and hood strode his way up to the top of this particular hill overlooking the city of Canterlot.

The pony grunted and let out a discontented sigh. The pony reached into their saddle bag, and pulled out a simple scroll. Along the edge, a broken seal displayed Celestia's royal crest. Rereading the note, to be sure they had come at the aforementioned time, as well as to be sure of the location of the meeting.

"Well," the pony said in a baritone voice. "I wonder what Tia could possibly want from me this time. It's probably the same thing she wanted a century ago, and the century before that too."

The pony removed his hood. He was grey, with a long, unkempt purple mane streaked with the occasional silver. From afar, the streaks appeared blonde. His eyes, deeply thoughtful with what lie before him, were a fresh and lively sparkling jade. He was as big as Celestia herself in height, but his posture made him shorter. He looked down the hill towards the city; a questioning look slowly edged its way onto his face.

"Why do I always humor her and return,” the pony said aloud to himself. “Well, she is a good friend, but this has to be the umpteenth time she has done this since I left on my journey. Though... I guess it will still be nice to see her again after all this time."

Though he had his doubts, he strode onward.

There was a lot on the stallion's mind, but he left the rest to float about in his mind. It took longer than he had anticipated to reach the road, but as the sun waned in the western skies, he arrived at the gates to the city. The guards looked at the stallion incredulously, full of suspicion, for he was rather tall. After checking him, to make sure he wasn't carrying something that could cause devastation to the city, they allowed him entry unto the city.

Canterlot was divided into differing sections based roughly on what caste you filled in society. There were lower, middle, and upper classes. The place the stallion wanted was a club in the middle class district, called The Hot Trotter. Every time the stallion thought of the name of the club, he groaned. How pitifully corny can you get? He thought.

It took him the better part of an hour to finally find the place, with the middle class district being haphazardly organized. He looked up in the sky, to see the sun that was barely visible above. The gas lanterns on the streets slowly flickered to life among the groups of ponies moving about. The club was a simple red brick establishment, worn and weathered from age. From the sounds of it, the DJ was already rolling the show out, bass tones reverberating through the walls easily.

He put his hood on before heading inside, looking like a dangerous, foreboding pony. He mainly did this to see how many ponies he could mess with. As he walked in he was greeted by loud music, and bright neon lights flashing everywhere. He proceeded to cross the dance floor as noticeably as possible. The DJ dropped the volume of the music, everypony got quiet and stared as he walked over to the bar. He turned about quickly pulling his hood off again, with a wicked grin on his face, and announced, "Come on DJ, what're you doin'?” His voice echoed around the room. “Crank up that bass to max, and get this party started!"

The DJ stared back, dumbfounded for a moment, before obliging the newcomer. Within seconds the club erupted into vibrant life once again, as the stallion turned back to the bar, snickering, to get a drink. The bartender stared at him with a smirk while drying a mug she had just washed out. Her coat seemed to blend in perfectly with the night life scene of the club.

"Now that wasn't very subtle of you,” She said as the stallion arrived at the bar. “Was it now?"

The stallion chuckled. "I can't help myself sometimes,” He replied casually with a smile. “The reaction is so priceless! Everypony looks so different with how they react!"

"Well if that's what'cha like, I won't bother further,” she said with a shrug. “What'll ya be having tonight sir?" She asked with a smile, setting the mug down leaning closer over the counter.

"Hmm, that's a good question,” he said, raising an eyebrow inquiringly. “What would you recommend?"

She walked over and began mixing a drink before sliding it down the bar to him. "The house specialty, Zap Apple Bomb. Zap apple flavoring liquor, some light tinges of cranberry juice, one shot whiskey, one shot rum. 30 bits."

The stallion laughed and placed the money upon the counter, tip included. He took a tentative drink. As he swallowed, a heat quickly overtook him. The drink was extremely potent, but smooth as silk flowing down his throat, with an after taste of fizzy apples. He raised his glass to the bartender before taking another drink, this time much deeper.

Setting his drink down, he reached into his saddlebags and pulled out a memento that had come with the letter from Celestia. It was a simple rubber duck. He set it upon the bar in front of the bartender and said, "I'm sure you're aware of what this odd memento signifies, correct?"

The mare looked at the duck, first confused. Then her expression changed to one of understanding as she nodded. "She has always been a fan of cute whimsy I guess. Follow me to the VIP box, sir."

As with every other time he met with Celestia, he heard his father's parting words to him before he left home.

"Avalon, greatness is not always something we choose, it sometimes is forced upon us. All we can do is make the best with the responsibilities that are cast upon us. You cannot run from this fact forever. It is your destiny."

Avalon's only reply that day was cast over his shoulder as he walked out that door. "Yeah, sure dad, goodbye..."

He still regretted those final words to this day, but if he knew anything about his father, he knew he wouldn't want him lamenting. He pushed it into the back of his mind. The bartender led him upstairs then, and left him at the door to Celestia's private box. It had been a hundred years since last they spoke.

He put his hoof to the door and entered casually. Celestia was standing on the far side of the VIP box, staring through the window down at all the ponies partying below, on the ground floor. There was a pleasant air about her, calm and harmonious. Avalon closed the door behind him. He walked over to the coat rack and removed his cloak and saddlebags, so as to let his wings be free of that which held them at his sides. He stretched his wings out, since he had a bit of space. "Ah, it feels so much better to no longer have to travel in anonymity!" he said visibly relieved.

"Well, I'm glad that you are doing well,” Celestia said in a gentle tone from behind the stallion. “Avalon, my old friend."

Avalon retracted his wings and turned to face the princess slowly. Her gaze was warm and welcoming as it always was. Even though Avalon knew this was a trap, he willingly walked into it every time. She came forward and embraced him in a friendly hug, her long shining mane tickling his nose. The princess let go, sauntered over to the couch, took a seat, and invited Avalon to sit with her. He ignored the invitation.

"So, Tia,” Avalon began, “it's been another hundred years. We both know at least one of the reasons you called me here. One question, why a rubber duck as the symbol?" Avalon inquired.

The princess laughed, and produced one with her magic, saying "Oh come now, this is absolutely adorable,” she made it quack, “or very evil. If we just added horns right... here."

This is overkill, even for her. Avalon thought. Maybe she's just going through one of those phases. “Celestia, lets get to the point of you calling me here for the,” he thought for a moment, “twentieth time in my lifetime? You must be aware of my lifespan running out." The stallion finished his statement with a touch of dread.

She turned to look at him seriously before speaking. "You are right, Avalon. After two thousand and one hundred years of life, the clock is running short for you.” She said this with mist in her eyes. “Which is why I'm imploring you to take up the task, only you can, as your birth right. Your silmarillion blood will only keep you going so long without the rituals surrounding the coronation of a prin--"

"Okay,” the stallion interrupted, “you see, that's where I'm going to stop you, princess. I've explained this time after time; I will decide my own fate. I chose to leave the academy for gifted leaders on my own. I left home on my own. I went on my journey on my own.” He took a breath. “I learned to stand on my own, and enjoy the world for the many facets it has, that are constantly changing. I want control of my destiny, and I alone took that road.” He sighed. “In truth, Tia, these are my last 7 years of life. I have feared my death from birth, for I knew when it would come, but yet I face it on my terms." Avalon stopped, to gauge Celestia's reaction, but it remained calm and unflinching. On the outside, Avalon thought.

"Avalon, are you aware that the harmony between the Council of Five is rapidly diminishing?" Celestia's tone gained a harsh edge. "Are you aware that the actions that are taking place, at this very moment, are slowly inching the pegasi, your people, into a five way civil war?"

Avalon stared Celestia down, stoic at the information provided to him.

Celestia looked taken aback. "Avalon, how can you not so much as flinch at this information? Avalon, you must take up your right, and claim the title Prince of Cloudsdale, you are the only one who can help to unite the pegesi before darkness envelops them all!" She looked at the stallion, to see that he was still holding a neutral expression. "Are you really going to walk away from this again? When there is a need for you to rise up? I may be a princess, but Avalon,” she took a quavering breath; “I'm not above begging you to do this. Not only for yourself, but for the well-being of the countless innocents that will be dragged into this conflict."

Avalon gave the sun princess a perplexed look. Celestia was begging him? Maybe he should think seriously about this. No, this was just another way fate was trying to take control of him. He wasn't about to let that happen. Celestia was his friend, and he cared dearly for her, even if he didn't show it, but what she was asking of him was just not something he could do. It went against who he was. He felt regretful, but held his gaze with Celestia.

"Avalon please, don't run away from this destiny." Celestia's head dropped in a sullen defeat, and she sighed. "Who am I kidding. You never were one to follow.” She motioned to the door. “Your favorite hotel has a reservation in your name, paid for compliments of me. Marking our two-thousandth year of hard wrought friendship. Go out have some fun, then continue on your way, Avalon..."

"Celestia, I'm sorry, but you know I can't do this..."

"It's of little importance now, my friend.” She turned back to the window, “I ask that you leave me to my thoughts," She said somberly.

"But, Tia--" Avalon pleaded.

She turned on him, anger on her face, bright as the sun, "YOU SHALL LEAVE ME, NOW!"

Chapter 2: On The Wings Of Innocence

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Avalon scrambled to retreat from Celestia's anger. He was barely able to remember to grab his saddlebags as he rushed out of the room. He had never seen her mane become the very essence of fire before, but this time he must have truly pushed her too far
.

He leaned against the wall for a moment outside the door, panting, and as he regained his breath he heard something else he had never heard before: crying. The sun princess was crying, because of his actions.

He descended the stairs slowly. With a heavy heart, he entered the bar's main foyer again. He was numb to the music and atmosphere around him.

He just wasn't the type for what Celestia wanted. Why couldn't she see that? Then again, back in his younger days at a leadership academy, he was the absolute top-rated leader.

They had called him ruthless, cold, calculating, but most of all reckless. He had always told his superiors that this was because they couldn't see past the moment, and that the good intentions were there, just not apparent. He never lost a team member in all his time there, not even once. He was marked careless for being the one often times in the most danger, frequently sacrificing himself for the others in the non-violent exercises. More times than most though he would lose himself in the moment and fight with little remorse. He usually came up with plans that were beyond his team’s abilities, but somehow always improvised if they suffered drawbacks.

The stallion chuckled at the memories. He couldn't believe that, every time the other leaders and their respective teams came up against him, they couldn't get past him. Avalon was like an impassible wall of iron. He even once was able to fend off two teams for over five minutes, securing his teams rear as they retreated. His team members called him “Ironsides” or “Iron Wall Avalon.”

These were all just practice exercises, but it was nonetheless impressive to most of the higher-ups in the academy. However, Avalon always caught bad flak from his silmarillion blood. He never cared though, and would always say to his peers: "It doesn't matter what blood flows through you, 'cause the only thing that counts are your actions in the face of adversity!"

He stopped in his tracks, noticing he was now outside the city on a small hill. Crickets were chirping peacefully. The stars sparkled, the moon stared down at him. Sympathetically, he thought.

"One's actions in the face of adversity,” The stallion lamented this. He stared at the moon. “Guess that makes me a hypocrite, doesn't it?"

Avalon's team had passed their final assessment with flying colors, and Avalon had taken that as his cue to leave. He had only attended the academy on his mother's dying wish. To “humor his father and go,” after years of resisting it. He loved his mother, so he obliged, but after his time there he learned that this would not be how he let his destiny flow. He dropped out the day before he would have been presented his graduation papers, and headed home to collect his things before he went out to find his own way.

Avalon chuckled. “Dad, looks like Celestia continues your work to this day. She is a little less effective on me than...” He stopped, choking slightly. He seemed deep in thought. “I'm sad that you can't still be around..."

His father had passed 200 years ago. To a silmarillion, this was just a short time. After all, Avalon was two thousand one hundred and sixty three years old. His dad died around this age as well, give or take ten years. A streak shone from Avalon's eye, as a tear flowed down his face and fell away.

"Well, this is just getting to be too much melancholy for me to stomach. Hmm.” He thought for a moment. “Maybe I can find that rainbow-maned twit Bifrost up in Cloudsdale. Sun and Stars know he'd be better company than myself!" He laughed.

Avalon spread his wings, flapped them once for balance, and gained an immense altitude easily. He remembered the reservation that Celestia had made him, but decided he would come back for that another time.

"Priorities, Avalon,” he chided himself, “and this is a good time that has been waiting a while. I wonder how he's doing, and how that daughter of his has grown?" He wore a full-hearted smile as he flapped up to speed, easily leaving Canterlot far behind him in a few short seconds.

Avalon was a speed flier, and that had always been apparent. He could span the continent in a few days, maximum. Within an hour he saw the familiar clouded paradise which was home to him: Cloudsdale.

He circled for a moment before he landed at a humble little home. It was quiet, but the lights were on inside, and it was the last address that Bifrost had given Avalon. The stallion had known the family for many years now. Every generation, for some odd reason, always formed a strong bond with him. Bifrost had formed a bond stronger than usual with Avalon, though, and it reminded the stallion that that hadn't happened since the first time he encountered the family, back in his academy days.

He reached out with a hoof and rang the doorbell. He heard an irritable groan come from within the home. He could tell Bifrost was approaching, with his usual grumbles of, "Gah, why in Celestia's name do ponies find it amusing to bother me at night...”

Bitfrost opened the door, his rainbow mane as sleek as it was the day they had met, his coat a much dimmer shade of cyan blue, more like a blue-grey color. Bifrost's eyes went wide in surprise. "Avalon?" He wondered aloud.

Avalon stood up on his back hooves and extended his forehooves outward in a melodramatic, showy manner before declaring, "In the flesh, Frosty!"

The stallions embraced in a brotherly hug for a moment. "It's been a while, hasn't it ol' friend,” the rainbow-maned stallion asked with a smile. “What brings you here tonight?"

"It's Tia,” Avalon stated. “She and I had our usual chat about what destiny demands of me. I got a little overly reflective, and, well, I thought it would be nice to see an old friend. My thoughts are nice sometimes, but tonight didn't seem wise to stay in my head."

"Nice, in your mind?” Bifrost retorted, a smirk wide across his face. “Hah! You mean dangerous!” He mulled the idea over in his head. “Well, if ya let me get my stuff together, we could go out for a drink, if you'd like?"

Avalon laughed. "Works for me! Is my favorite place still open?"

"Pfft, barely,” Bitfrost turned to go inside, “but I have a feeling you're behind that place having enough money to stay open!"

Avalon watched as the lights went off one by one inside. He had forgotten how simple and humble Bifrost's home was. It was the kind of home the purple-maned stallion had always wanted for himself, when it was time to settle down.

His thoughts drifted back to a time when he thought that was going to happen, but as soon as the memory took form in his head, he shook his head and dispelled it. This wasn't the time. Bifrost came out of the home ready to go with his own saddlebags. He closed the door and locked it tight. They began to walk over to the place, rather than fly, so they could have more time to catch up.

"Well, you know, I might have had something to do with the bar's welfare,” Avalon admitted, “but I can't take all the credit. They brainwashed me with their amazing drink concoctions after all!"

"More like they drugged you!” Bifrost playfully accused the gray stallion. He suddenly looked serious. “Wait, is there something you aren't telling me about that night?"

"Maybe, but let's not ruin our friendship over the past, now!" Avalon replied with a devilish smile.

"I knew it!" Bifrost declared. He changed his demeanor to be softly flirtatious. "You always did want to get me in bed with you. You should know I'm too much for you to handle."

Avalon laughed then said, with overly emphasized tenderness, "Oh, but how do you know it's not the other way around, Frosty, my big, strong stallion!" They looked at each other for a moment, before exploding into laughter.

They reached the front of the bar they were looking for, still laughing. It looked run down, and it badly needed rebuilding, but that was precisely why Avalon loved it. It was a part of the old-world Cloudsdale architecture. It sang out to his soul. He had always made donations to it, even on his journey. The gray stallion sighed as he opened the door for his friend. "After you, snookums."

They were both snickering as they got a seat at the bar, Bitfrost to Avalon's right side. The stallion that worked the bar came up, a knowing smile on his forest green face. His mane was short and blonde, his eyes a deep brown.

"Stiff Brew!” Avalon exclaimed. “It's been ages! My muffin and I would like to commandeer some of your finest mixes!" Avalon declared, still seeing if he could get Bifrost to facehoof first.

"Avalon, it's been awhile,” Stiff Brew declared in a deep bass, “and I can't begin to thank you enough for all you've been doing fer me, even while ya been on yer journey." He looked between Bitfrost and Avalon. "Still playing that facehoof game, I see.” He shook his head. “You two. We all know how that'll end, don't we?"

Bifrost wrapped his left forehoof around Avalon's waist as he replied. "Why of course we do, Brew. It's whomever gets into bed with me first."

Avalon couldn't resist, he facehoofed. Hard. "Gah, Frost! You had to go that far?"

Bifrost burst out laughing so hard, he fell out of his seat. Stiff Brew just shook his head and said, "He has to win every time, doesn't he. Anyways, what'll you be havin'?"

"Hmm.” Avalon briefly thought on this. “How ‘bout two of our usual's, Cloud Kickers." Avalon declared. He reached to his saddlebags, to get money out.

Brew held his hoof up. "No payment needed, boyo. What with all you've done fer me, I can at least allow ya a drink 'er two on the house."

Avalon stared back at him, surprised at first. Then he smiled and put his bags down. Brew went back into the brewing area to get the drinks started. Bifrost finally managed to compose himself enough to get back up onto his seat.

"I hate you sometimes, Frosty. I hope you know that." He stared stonily at the rainbow-maned stallion.

"Aww, don't stare at me like that,” Bitfrost pleaded. “It's not my fault you can't resist the facehoof. So what did'ja order us?” He stopped for a moment, frozen in horror. “Please don't tell me you got me one of the drinks you usually get," the grey-blue stallion said hesitantly.

Just then, Brew brought over two large cups with a hazy-looking blue liquid in them, as well as shot glasses filled with a hazy-looking red liquid.

"Two Cloud Kickers on the house!” Brew declared with an evil smile. “Bottoms up, Bifrost!"

Bifrost looked at the drink, then the stallions around him. "I hate you both so much right now."

Brew and Avalon replied at the same time. "We love you too!"

Avalon grabbed his and then Bifrost's shot glass, dropping them individually into the bigger cups. The combination of the liquids caused them to brightly swirl, mixing into into a color neither of them could resist drinking: rainbow. How Stiff Brew did it, neither stallion knew, but one thing was sure; the barkeep's name held true with his drink. The friends toasted their reunion and took a deep drought of the poly-chromatic drink. Both of them coughed after their drink. It was called a Cloud Kicker for a reason, mostly cause it felt like you just got bucked in the gut by Equestria's strongest pony.

"Whew, Brew, that always hits the spot. Harder than ever!" Avalon declared happily, feeling warmth spread through his body.

The warmth was quickly replaced. The sound of pegesi flying at high velocities overhead shook the bar. If the silmarillion knew anything, he knew only the official guards of Cloudsdale were authorized to fly at those velocities. What Avalon didn't understand was why there had been a need to do so at this hour. The shock in his demeanor apparent, he finished off his drink and quickly trotted outside, Bifrost stumbling behind him.

"What was that about,” Avalon said, confusion edging his gaze as he caught the direction the guards had headed. “They only have authorization to do that if there is a threat to the people!"

"That's been happening more often lately. Didn't Celestia tell you?” Bitfrost inquired. “It seems like the Council of Five has been fighting amongst each other lately. They don't trust one another anymore. It's skirmish after skirmish here.” Bifrost informed his friend. “They cover it up, using everything they can, but we aren't stupid ponies. We know something is up. Everypony does what they can to ignore it though, just hoping it'll go away," A look of sorrow mixed with anger edged into his eyes.

Avalon cast a look of great concern upon his friend, before turning away and spreading his wings to take off in the direction of the guards. He had to know more about the situation, and if Bifrost followed, it was his choice, but it didn't matter to Avalon right now.

Within a few seconds he hovered above a scene that disgusted him. The Captain of the Guard was holding a simple pegasus up in the air by their throat, lance ready to strike. He wasn't going to wait to ask why, because no matter how he looked at this, it was wrong. You weren't allowed to pass execution on anyone not proven guilty first.

"Stop this madness!" Avalon ordered, as he dived and tackled the captain, knocking him aside. "Last I checked, the guard wasn't permitted to execute simple pegasi without trial by jury! Innocent until proven guilty?"

The Captain looked up at Avalon, regained his footing, and checked him before responding. "Last I checked, your citizenship to pegasi cities was suspended, Avalon Ironsides."

"Don't call me Ironsides, it's a ridiculous nickname!” Avalon blurted, before taking a breath and saying, “I am honored the Captain of the Guard knows the circumstances of my departure. Now tell me what gives you the right to execute the innocent?" the stallion asked with disgust.

"I don't make the orders, Avalon,” the Captain told him. “You should know that. I just carry them out. Additionally, they aren't innocent, there have been deaths the past few days!” the Captain got a fire inside his voice. “The person you’re trying to defend is an assassin with express orders to kill Council leader Hurricane Rush. We are carrying out orders from Hurricane himself! Either get out of the way, Avalon or we will arrest you--" the Captain grunted as Avalon punched him in the stomach.

Avalon didn't hesitate any longer. He knew he couldn't win this fight with words. The gray stallion head-butted the captain off his hooves, then proceeded to disarm the other guards, and disable their movements with pressure points. The corporal of the patrol, quite frightened by this display of strength and finesse collapsed in fright.

"Urgh, that's impossible,” The captain muttered as he tried to get up, failing. “No pony is that strong..."

Avalon slowly strode over to the pegasus that had remained lying there, staring wide eyed at what had just happened. The stallion held out a hoof offering to help the other, and the pony reached up and took his hoof. They pulled themselves up far too fast though. Avalon noticed a second too late as he felt a cold chill hit him in his chest.

"You should've listened to the captain,” the pony said, “he knew what he was talking about, heir to the throne, Avalon." The cold voice slithered quietly into his ear like venom.

He felt the cold steel pulled from its place as the assassin stepped back. Avalon put his hoof to his chest then brought it up within his sight. He saw blood. He put his hoof down again.
As he closed his eyes, he heard a voice in his mind that was clear as day. Life is ours to keep, death be not theirs to reap. Judgment is upon them, and their end is neigh.

Through gritted teeth Avalon snarled his next words. "You fool, you should've taken my humility and ran!"

Avalon's last thought finished the first voices cryptic rhyme. And death is NOT an option!

As he opened his eyes, magic spilled from them in a white, blinding light. The assassin-pony shrunk in fear as he rapidly approached, before Avalon picked them up. He held them in the air by their throat. The pegasus struggled violently, not in defiance, but in sheer terror at the sight. They dropped the blade they had held. Avalon stood on his rear hooves, his wings fully extended, shielding others from the view that was about to take place.

Avalon spoke in a loud, echoing, and unnaturally neutral voice. "You, Flashwing. have thus earned this day your Judgment.” The pony stopped struggling to goggle in fear. “I make this Judgment with a heavy heart, as I do not like to pass decisions on any pony. Yet you, in your infinite ignorance, have thrown my humble kindness aside, and have thrown your final card."

"I-I-I--” Flashwing stumbled with words. “What are you?!?" Flashwing sobbed. Tears glistened in his eyes.

"Your jury, judge, and, though it pains me, your executioner.” Avalon's new voice replied, with little emotion. “You do not have the right to take the life of one whom spares yours."

"E-E-Executioner!” Flash screamed. “W-Wait you can't be serious? Weren't you helping me a second ago?” Flash's words were rapid as thought. “You can't do this!"

"Your chance went out the door the second you turned on your savior. Goodbye, dear Flashwing. Your talents among your people will be gravely missed." Avalon's new voice stated. A tear streaked down his face.

He dropped the pony, and his hoof struck out and hit Flashwing three times. The yellow pegasus convulsed mid-fall, and lay on the clouds motionless afterward. Avalon closed his eyes and retracted his wings, tears streaming down his face. He fell to the ground as well. His wound had closed, but blood matted the area where it once was. Flashwing now stared endlessly at the night sky.

Sometimes Avalon cursed his inner survival mechanism. He didn't even fully understand it. It was one of the many reasons he did not wish to become prince. The eerie power would be more prevalent. Being a silmarillion had its benefits, but most times Avalon felt it was a curse.

At this point, in his mind it clicked. Maybe what the pegasi needed was someone to re-balance them as a group. It was possible there were just a few ponies that were causing the chaos that now plagued the pegasus population. In order to help them, he would have to learn to control the power, curving the harshness of its punishments, and the stallion only knew of one way to find the answer for this. It was a Zebra tribe he had earned the name of Dragonshpere from.

He sighed loudly as he heard Bifrost come up behind him. The wheels of destiny could only wait so long. It seemed at last they were turning against his wishes. He heard his dad's words again, the same mantra.

“Avalon, greatness is not always something we choose, it sometimes is forced upon us. All we can do is make the best with the responsibilities that are cast upon us. You cannot run from this fact forever. It is your destiny."

"Then I guess it's time I accepted mine, Father," Avalon mumbled.

He stood up again slowly, and turned to face the Captain as well as Bifrost. The Captain seemed to be the only one able to recover even slightly, his men were apparently still unable to regain their wits.

"What happened here, Avalon?" Bifrost asked. His eyes were wide in surprise.

Avalon walked over to his saddlebags, which he just noticed had been knocked off in his tussle with the guards, and retrieved a simple rubber duck. He went to Bifrost and dropped it in front of him.

"Sometimes,” Avalon began, “the choices we need to make in life are as simple and pure as this rubber ducky. That was what Celestia was trying to make me see. Now, I ask that you, my friend, take her this duck. Tell her I understand now what I must do. With luck she will still be at The Hot Trotter club, drowning the sorrow I brought her selfishly this evening. Take it, and fly fast Bifrost."

"I--uhm, okay but,-- Avalon,” Bitfrost hesitated, “what will you do?"

The stallion turned and walked away before speaking loudly, with as much authority as he could muster. "Captain, tell Hurricane that Avalon has returned. I wish to see how the Council will react to this threat.” He decided to answer his friend. “Bifrost, I'm going to find answers that I will need for taking up my mantle. I shall see you, in time."

Avalon leapt into the sky, quickly making the pegasi below him look like ants. He jolted forwards, and within mere heartbeats he hit the sound barrier, and shattered it with a boom. It echoed hundreds of miles around. He didn't care for names, but Celestia insisted on calling it the Mach 3. The name had stuck shortly after that, as he couldn't deny that it sounded like something he would name the high velocity trick.

The Captain stared in astonishment, his ears ringing loudly. "Wh-What was that?" he questioned, louder than he thought he was speaking.

Bifrost picked up the duck and stared at it. "That, Captain, was the Mach 3. It rivals my daughter's sonic rainboom. In fact, it's faster than it."

Nonplussed, Bifrost took to the skies and flew his fastest towards Canterlot. With some luck, he would see the princess at the club. It was the least he could do for his friend as he faced a destiny they both knew he didn't want any part of.

Chapter 3: The Road Not Taken

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It seemed like mere seconds before Avalon had to slow his pace from the Mach 3. His eyes were mere slits against the air current, and the strain was apparent in his face.

Avalon began to wonder if going Mach 3 after recovery from a life-threatening wound was wise. He knew that there was going to be inevitable fatigue from that kind of recovery, it was what made his survival mechanism a double-edged sword. He hoped it wouldn't stick with him, being fatigued more than a day. It had once bedridden him for over a week.

His direction of flight was toward the jungles of Equestria, the homelands of the Zebra Tribes. The Zebrican's did not often allow for outsiders to enter their community, but Avalon had been a special case a few years back. It wasn't a pleasant memory, though.

He gradually opened his wings, allowing drag on his speed. After he slowed, he noticed a simple cloud ahead. He circled it a few times, and made a landing there. The stallion looked out at the horizon, now standing on the borders of the Zebrican homelands.

The sky was still dark with Luna's night, crisp and cool were the breezes that met Avalon's purple mane. Below him, he could hear all kinds of animal sounds, ranging from roars to cries. The stallion took a deep breath, relishing the fresh feeling he felt at returning here.

So this is where destiny will collect the piece it had so struggled to obtain. Avalon thought. Me. It made the place feel utterly eerie, to be so at peace with what laid ahead of him. He opted to have one last, self-made choice; to rest until dawn upon this cloud.

As he lay down, aches slowly crept in. "There's the fatigue..." He muttered.

He finally found comfort as his eyes sleepily closed. His mind drifted into a memory.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

It was the memory of when he first came here, his wings bound. He had had to walk on his hooves. It was one of those little challenges he put to himself, while he wandered about as a nomad. He had come to the jungles in the mid-summer months, when it was green, luscious, and beautiful. Unfortunately, it was also hot, humid, and heavy, which was thoroughly irritating to Avalon. Within two days, he had come to what he later learned was a barrier gate. It was a guarded area, with symbols inscribed on several trees in a rough wall, indicating a tribe inhabited the nearby areas.

Avalon had encountered Zebracians in his travels before, and he had inquired as to some of their customs. Avalon had walked up to the guards, to request formal permission to be allowed temporary visitor-ship. This required the chieftain to take action. However, upon hearing the request, the guards simply turned him away.

One of them told Avalon, "This is not a wise time, to call upon the chieftain's mind."

It was clear to the stallion that something was troubling the tribe, so he had simply stated, "Of course. I shall respect your words, but tomorrow I will return." It didn't rhyme, not really, but Avalon was still recovering from the abrupt rebuttal.

He had to head back out into the wilderness and made a makeshift camp. With what he had and with what his environment had to offer, it was crude and not homely. It had done until he could manage to enter the village.

Two weeks seemed to fly by, as Avalon kept trying to get his message to the Zebrican Chief. His camp had become a little more put together by then, with a soft bed made of materials that wouldn't induce rashes, a noticeable fire ring, a storage area for fruits and vegetables, and a noticeable border around the area. He had also found a stream that ran through the jungle near his camp that allowed him fresh drinking water.

There was a purpose of his nomadic journeys. Learning about the world outside the clouds, besides learning the pegasus he was deep down inside. He had been in his tent, to rest as he reflected more on what he had gathered that day from nature.

He had been suddenly awoken by an earsplitting roar.

"Wh-What was that?” Avalon exclaimed. It had sounded like an angry feral dragon. That had to be in his dreams, there is no way that he had heard--

Just as Avalon had tried to rationalize things, the roar came again, this time with an accompanied scream of terror. Avalon grew tense fast. He got up and began galloping at a high speed towards the sounds of jungle being torn apart. It sounded as if the dragon was being assaulted.

Who would be so brash as to make that error, the stallion wondered. The odd thing was, the yells had begun to sound more distant compared to where the dragon roared and thrashed about.

As he burst through the brush into a clearing, he came to a situation he didn't expect. It was a single zebra dodging an angry dragon. She was quick and nimble, and, from the looks of the craters nearby, a gifted alchemist. An observant look told Avalon all he needed to know. She was on her last blasting bottle, and stood in the middle of the clearing.

He didn't have to know why, and, quite frankly, didn't care as he charged toward her. He noticed that she wasn't paying attention to the dragon as it lunged for her, mouth spread wide. In fact, the zebra seemed lost in thought. He lunged forward with his front legs and tackled her out of the reach of the dragon's mouth as it snapped closed. Avalon's tail had just passed it. A second more, and he would have been too late.

"What do you think you're doing, you silly wing-bound pony!" The zebra replied. Apparently she was irritated.

Avalon looked confusedly at her. "What do you mean what am I doing? Do you like being eaten by dragons, or do you just have a death wish?"

The dragon howled in anger, its meal somehow getting out of his jaws.

"My reasons are my own, and not of your business.” She replied. “Destiny calls to me today, and I will follow it through."

Avalon's eyes darkened. "Idiot," he said quietly. He looked into her eyes, a fire burning as he declared, “There is more to life than a destiny written in stone!”

He got up off of her, and turned to face the dragon. He growled at Avalon, but through that Avalon could hear a chuckle.

"Think I'm funny scaly butt?” Avalon taunted. “It's not gonna be funny in a second." Avalon reached over to each wing. He undid the bindings.

The dragon blinked at the pony before him. Large as he was, he was no match for a dragon. The spectacle drove the reptile to actual laughter.

He spread out his wings in a challenge to the dragon. He turned his head to the zebra. “Go back to your village and live another day,” he commanded, “don't waste your life to foretold destiny. When it wants you, it knows where to find you!"

She looked at him with defiance in her eyes. "Fine,” she replied, “if you can foresee a greater destiny for me, then I will do what I can to live.” She picked up the blasting bottle and turned, before having an idea. “Before we part, though, I must insist that you take this, and put the dragon's chances at great risk."

She took the blasting bottle and set it down carefully on the ground. Avalon nodded his understanding. She took off at a full gallop, and he turned to face down the dragon.

See, Avalon, the purple-maned pegasus thought to himself. This is what you get for not thinking things through. The dragon's laughter was dying down. Dragons, he lamented, why is it always dragons?

"This pony pegasus doesn't know what he's getting into," The dragon said as he started breathing a stream of fire.

Avalon took to the skies, knowing from his prior examination of the blasting bottle, it had a long wick. He knew the dragon’s fire would light it, because the zebra had set it down behind him. He would have a short time to use it, though.

The dragon followed him to the skies, and as he gained altitude, Avalon swooped in for some hoof strikes at the dragon's face. Quickly realizing this was a minor irritation to the dragon, he backed off after a few blows. Without further hesitation, the dragon flew up and swatted Avalon down into the ground. The clearing was getting bigger and bigger underneath him. This is gonna hurt.

Avalon hit the ground hard. "Ugh...” the stallion groaned, as he got back up out of the hole he just made. “Yup, that hurt..."

The dragon snarled and reared his head back, erupting another torrent of flame. I can help you avoid this death inevitable, just accept the inescapable truth, a voice in Avalon's head said to him.

“What?" Avalon exclaimed at the voice. It had a tendency to appear when he was very likely to die. "No I won't give in, you're too violent!"

The dragon stopped gushing flame at the sky and looked down. "What?” It growled. “Is the crazy pony talking to itself?"

"Shut up dragon,” Avalon shouted in frustration, hating the power within him intensely. “I'm having an internal struggle here!"

The dragon was less than pleased with this response, and let a torrent of flame explode from his mouth.

Time seemed to slow for Avalon. Fine. He submitted to the power within, unaware of the zebra still watching him. In this, my time of dying I proclaim, Death is not an option! Avalon screamed this in his mind as he closed his eyes.

He lifted himself back onto his hind legs and splayed out his wings. He opened his eyes as a white magic spilled forth from them, the dragon flame mere centimeters from him. He flapped his wings twice. This first stopped, then dispelled the flames from hitting him, before he landed back on his front hooves. He stared up at the dragon with an indifferent defiance.

The dragon stared in utter astonishment. "That's impossible!" He roared, as he expelled another torrent of flame.

Avalon reared up, wings spread open, flapped them twice, and dispelled the flames once more. He landed and spoke.

"Oh, foolish dragon.” The voice was cold, and seemed to echo, even in the jungle. “You face an Avatar of Judgement. You cannot hope to succeed with the injustices you have done the Zebrican people. Face your trial."

The dragon stared, wide eyed for a moment. He was unsure of what to do. He concluded this was a bluff. Puny pony magic wouldn't stop him this time. He snorted in contempt at the pegasus before him. He wasn't going to let this creature talk down to him. The dragon dove down from the sky, in defiance of the pony's warning.

“They never listen do they?” The Avatar stated, unimpressed.

It went to the blasting bottle the zebra had left Avalon. The dragon diving for the body, opened his mouth wide as he closed in on his destination. The avatar turned its back to the dragon. It would need to time this perfectly, else Avalon’s body would be too severely injured in the process.

The blasting bottle's wick was nearly spent. The avatar reached down, grabbed the bottle, and did a turning leap. It threw the bottle square into the mouth of the dragon. It had timed its throw poorly, however, and the bottle exploded too soon. It caught the body in the blast, launching it headlong into a tree. The avatar’s consciousness faded, and, now back in control, Avalon’s was slowly fading too. He could see the dragon had survived, but with a massive blast to the front of his mouth. The reptile was lucky, but it wouldn't bother the Zebrican people again.

He then heard an echo in his mind, For the most part you are retained. I will be here should you need me again. My price is be the same, five years from your life.

As the voice faded into nothingness, Avalon became sharply aware of how serious his wounds were. The ground was comfy, at least. He blinked, but he may as well have closed his eyes.

Avalon's last sight before his consciousness completely faded was the zebra he had told to run. She began speaking in a funny language."Just c-couldn't run could ya..." He muttered as his eyes closed again.

He awoke two weeks after the dragon fight. The strain on his body had been too much. What with his survival mechanism and the explosive damage, his body didn't heal as it usually did. It was one of the few times in his life he was reminded that his power, though great, had limits. When Avalon could think again, soreness was integrated into his very spirit, it seemed. He had been taken to the Zebrican village. He found out he had saved the tribal shaman, Amara. He and she had spent a good deal of time with one another, before he inevitably left...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Avalon stretched on top of his cloud. He felt a bit better than he had. He looked to the eastern sky, and saw Celestia's sun rising. Something seemed more right about it this morning.

Avalon smiled. Bifrost had apparently gotten word back to her, and she was acknowledging his choice with all her power and heart.

"Thanks Tia,” he mumbled, “it means a lot."

He looked to the south, where jungle spread out endlessly in front of him. He began scanning the area for a landmark he knew he would need to make his entrance from.

He found it after a little difficulty. It was temple that barely broke the surface of the jungle. The sacred mount temple at A'un. He leaped from the cloud, spread his wings, and sped quickly towards the structure.

When you return, make notice with a display only you can put forth. The memory of Amara's parting words reminded him.

He pushed his limits. He just had to break the sound barrier. He had a feeling he was going to hurt himself, but he knew Amara would find him if he did.

It seemed mere seconds passed as he flew at the sound barrier, and a Mach 3. With a final burst of strength, he broke through.

He had gained a bit too much velocity though, and as he looked ahead, the temple got awfully close awfully fast. Then it hit him.

___________________________________________________________

Amara's morning had been very ordinary, waking up before dawn to begin mixing healing salves and elixirs. Her apprentice Tanwei was late again. Her herb collecting duties wouldn't be postponed again, though. Of late, Amara recalled, she had taken a fancy to one of the males in the tribe, and she could not find it in her heart to rebuke the young zebra. She remembered what that was like. Sixteen years ago, a purple-maned stallion severed the chains of fate she thought had bound her.

In the main area of the hut that belonged to Amara, there was a fire ring. A little blaze alight in the middle was heating a pot hanging above, with some concoction inside. Around the edges of the room were shelves and cabinets littered with bottles, herbs, grinders, books, orders, mixing pots, and an assortment of other things she needed for her alchemy-based works.

She was the tribe shaman for a reason. She was the best at everything involving the use of plants and herbs, to either heal or destroy. Amara picked up one of her books, and began to read it, patiently waiting for Tanwei.

Tanwei came in a few minutes later, greeting her teacher in a rushed way. "Good morning Amara, I'm sorry I'm--"

Amara cut her off. "It is fine, Tanwei. I just ask you keep track of time in the nights you spend with your new..." She took a moment, a smile spreading over her face, as she enjoyed her apprentice's discomfort. "… Friend."

Tanwei noticeably blushed at the notice her teacher had taken to the male involved in her life. She tried to change the subject. "U-um... W-what do you need me to do this morning, then, teacher?"

"Simple.” Amara said with an edge. “Gather the herbs you were supposed to yesterday." She turned and began to mix one of her salves.

"Aw! But Amara,” the apprentice replied, “I thought you took care of that yesterday because I didn't..." She seemed downfallen.

"No, I did not,” the shaman retorted curtly. “That is punishment enough for--"

Amara was cut off by a noise she knew, a noise she had waited for years to hear. The sound of the sound barrier giving way to a pegasus' power. Avalon had come again.

A moment later she heard a tremendous crash.

"Oh my,” Tanwei squeaked, clearly frightened. “Wh--what was that noise Amara? It sounded like a hundred of your blasting bottles going off at once!"

Amara turned from her mixing pot to face her apprentice. "That, my pupil, is the Dragonsphere returning to us. Avalon has come again. I need you to deliver that message to the chieftain, while I go to greet him!"

Tanwei's eyes went wide. She had remembered Avalon from when she was much younger. She knew what her mentor was feeling right now. She nodded her acknowledgment before running out the door.

Amara got her bags and threw them on, filling them with salves and other medicinal items. Knowing Avalon, he had just crashed into something, and would be thus injured. She galloped through her door, in haste to get to the temple. She didn't care what was in her way. Years ago she said she would be the first thing to greet him when he came back, and she wasn't about to break that promise to him.

Within minutes she had made it to the eastern outer barrier gate, and galloped full rush toward the temple. It was really a short trip for Amara, but she noticed the wildlife watching her curiously as she sped past them. The flowers still in full bloom for this time of year was a bizarre sight to the she-zebra. But, she was thankful that some were still fruitful, it served her well, being an alchemist. The sun had fully risen at this point and was spreading a very lovely warmth upon the jungle. Amara felt it in her pelt as she absorbed the heat.

She arrived at the clearing for the temple as the sun blinded her coming up over the highest point. The she-zebra moved with great haste up the steps, noting the evident crash landing Avalon had made.

She finally reached the top, finding Avalon laying on the ground, the pagoda that used to stand there utterly obliterated by the stallion. Her heart skipped a beat when at first he didn't move, but this fear was alleviated shortly thereafter when he started to push himself up. He grumbled a bit before looking over and seeing the zebra trotting over to him.

His energy flows felt over-taxed and chaotic. His wings gave off distinct heat, and chi-based energy flowed out like steam to her spiritually in touch eyes.

So Judgement acted recently. She started listing causes of his condition in her head. After that a Mach 3, a short rest then another. She gave a small gasp. You nearly died before Judgement acted?

"Looks like you...” He groaned. “...kept your promise, Amara." Avalon said with a smile and a grimace as he trotted up to her.

Her face lit up in glee as he spoke, black tail swishing. "Of course I kept my promise to you! Have I ever not?"

"It's truly nice to see you have missed me so much..." Avalon said. He stopped just before he nuzzled her, looking unsure.

"What's wrong Avalon? Why do you hesitate?" Amara questioned. She was hurt. Not only was he not treating his wounds, he seemed conflicted.

"I'm sorry Amara,” Avalon said, “when last we were together, we had agreed our affections were fleeting.” Avalon kicked his front hoof at the ground timidly. “I guess I wasn't sure if it would have been inconsiderate of me," he winced in pain.

"The affection, though fleeting, I will always welcome, dear Avalon." Amara said. A slight blush hit her cheeks as she began rifling through her bags.

He smiled and leaned in close to nuzzle into her neck and wrapped a foreleg around her. Great spirits knew that she had dearly missed his closeness to her, but something told her that his touch would not be her eternal happiness. This thought made her feel absolutely hollow inside.

She gathered the needed materials with practiced ease, then began to examine his wounds. She felt him tense as she did so. What is on his mind?

Avalon took a breath before saying, "Amara, as much as I'd like to have this reunion be for your affections, that is just not the case.” She began to apply salves to his body, and he released her. “It seems the wheels of my destiny have begun to turn. I need one thing if I am to face that.” Avalon winced again as she covered a particularly bad scrape with tonic. “Amara, I need to ask you to help me.”

Amara glanced to his face for a moment. She had prepared a witty retort, but Avalon's expression told her that this was serious. “What do you need help with?” She asked.

Avalon paused before continuing. “I need to gain control over my Avatar of Judgment." He stated this with apprehension, but not without conviction.

Amara felt the ground sway beneath her. She had hoped she would never have to encounter this day. Since the moment she figured out what Avalon's strange power was, she had hoped it would fall to someone else.

"I know I need the chieftain's approval as w—well... ugh." Whatever Avalon was going to say was cut short as he swayed side to side. What little bit of himself he had managed to pick up fell to the ground again.

It was a surprise that the stallion was able to fly after that near-death experience, let alone stand. His avatar must have gotten stronger in the past sixteen years. This worried Amara with what he had managed to ask before passing out. She took out more of the salves she brought. With luck, Tanwei would be able to get the chieftain to come to A'un. It would certainly make the process easier on Avalon and Amara. She gazed upon his flank at his cutie mark. It always surprised her to see it was a dark grey castle wall surrounding a lone guard tower that had blue shingles.

"Your name and mark don't match too well, do they,” Amara said gently. “But then again you always explained how it made sense better than I could..."

She got up and found an area that wasn't too broken, and began to prepare the area as a bed. Avalon needed rest to recover, and resting upon the hard stone alone would do him no good. She managed to make him a small bed in a quick enough amount of time. She then headed over and gripped the back of his mane with her mouth and dragged him like a dead weight over to the bed. She then used her front hooves to maneuver him onto the bed. She then walked a few paces away where she sat watching him and waiting for him to awaken.

It was then she noticed something odd. After all these years they had been apart, he didn't look all that different to her, while her age had started to show in small increments. This fact embarrassed, as well as saddened her deeply. She regretted that he wasn't her's, but because of her choice sixteen years ago, for them to call what they had simply a fleeting moment, she had lost that chance with an agreement. She would forever regret the road not taken.

Chapter 4: The Hidden Storm

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The operating hours at The Hot Trotter were slowly inching away. Celestia laid upon a couch, looking out over her little ponies, lamenting at the future. Her eyes were red from crying, her face was still moist with tears she had cried in vain. Her mane looked so much less vibrant than it had but hours ago.

"Why can't Avalon see that I need him to do what's right, even if I would much rather see him fly free?" she despaired.

It had been hours since their encounter, when she had lost her temper with him, for what seemed like the first time in a century. She had cast him away from her, the one true friend she had. The one whom always came back willing to hear her, and always wishing to see that the years had been kind to her.

"Oh, why did I do that to him?" She lamented as she laid her head upon his forgotten cloak.

As tears fell from her eyes to the lost cloak, a knock came at the door.

"Go away, I do not wish to be disturbed tonight!" the princess shouted, sounding as if she had had a warm buzz going.

"But, your Majesty,” the bar-mare called out from the other side of the door, “there is another pegasus here bearing the same rubber duckie from earlier tonight."

Celestia raised her head in surprise and inquired, "What is his name?"

"He says his name is Bifrost, Princess."

The sun diarch sighed and replied, "You may see him in then."

The door opened instantly and before her stood a blue-grey stallion with a rainbow mane: Rainbow Dash's father, Bifrost. He was also one of Avalon's best friends, the princess knew, and the only way he could have had that duck was because of the purple-maned stallion she had fought with hours earlier. The rainbow-maned stallion looked grouchy, yet determined and unflinching at the princess before him.

"I'm not impressed to see Equestria's ruler brought so low by something so great as forcing a destiny on one who only wants freedom." Bitfrost stated evenly.

"I most certainly did not force anything on him.” Celestia replied, years of diplomatic dealings covering her tears and sorrow. “In fact, I sent him away knowing he would not bend, Bifrost."

"That's all well and good, Princess,” he returned, “but it's no use. Destiny wouldn't let him have a choice, and another pegasi is dead at Avalon's hands."

Celestia's eyes went wide. Avalon had killed another pegasus. This was not good at all, the punishment for that was grave, and this may have been why Bifrost had come. She nodded, urging him to tell her more silently.

"From what I could tell, when I got there he had used that bizarre power of his. The pegasus was an assassin sent to kill Hurricane Rush and...” Bifrost sighed and shook his head. “Oh, forget it,” he said grumpily, “I'm not here to give you every detail, Princess."

She looked at him curiously. "Then what are you here for, Bifrost?"

Bitfost let his grumpiness fade. "To deliver a message from Avalon, before you raise the sun." he said solemnly.

"Well, what is this message?" she asked, waiting more eagerly than she should have for his reply.

"That he,” Bitfrost cleared his throat, “'now knows what he must do, even though he doesn't like it in the least.' He headed toward the Zebrican jungles last I saw him.” Bitfrost closed his eyes, as if remembering something. “I can see the nature of a ruler rising in him quickly."

Celestia smiled wide, a tear falling from her eye again. This time, it was from sheer joy. Though she hated that Avalon's hand was forced, it was out of her control. Destiny decreed he could not delay any longer, and the safety of Equestria was beginning to look much more secure. The princess felt a warmth began to spread outward from her heart the more the thought of what the grey stallion was doing sank in. She got up from the couch, her sorrow quickly fading away she moved to Bifrost. He, thankfully, didn't flinch.

"Thank you for your hard work Bifrost,” the sun goddess declared confidently. “I suggest you head to your daughter's, and bring her with you back to Cloudsdale immediately."

He nodded his understanding and moved to leave. The rainbow-maned stallion was easily able to interpret the intentions behind what the princess had said. When the door closed behind him, the atmosphere in the room had changed significantly. Once alone, Celestia smiled so affectionately it was almost unbelievable. The warmth she felt right now was uncharacteristic, but she knew just the right way to express it. This morning's sunrise would be something special, something to convey to Avalon, wherever he was, how much she appreciated his sacrifice. A sunrise that would let her express all the feelings she could never put to words.

She would do this with hopes that she could boost his spirits for the trials ahead, for if he was doing what she thought he was, the stallion needed every bit of morale. She trotted out the room, down the stairs and out of the club. She took flight to the castle. This would be the most beautiful sunrise she would ever make, and it was all for Avalon's willing sacrifice for the greater good.

"Please, Avalon,” she said, “look upon this sunrise, and feel the heart I put into it..." she paused before finishing her thought.”...for you."

___________________________________________________________

Bifrost flew fast to his daughter's home in Ponyville, worry edging at his mind. The Princess had asked him to get his daughter back to Cloudsdale, and this couldn't have been a passing fancy for the sun goddess. She knew that he and Rainbow Dash would need to be present in Cloudsdale, but what bothered him was why. The rainbow-maned stallion had to figure this out, but while thinking he wasn't watching where he was going.

As expected of a pony that challenges the universe, Bifrost smashed headfirst into the side of his daughter's house. Wedged half out and half in one of the walls of his little girl's house, he scolded himself for being so absorbed in thought that he forgot to watch where he was flying. It was such an amateur mistake after all, but it was then he heard a familiar noise from further in the house: snoring.

There was no mistaking it that was his little Dashie snoring, still asleep, even though the sun had already risen in the sky. Celestia had risen an especially beautiful sun this morning, and even though Rainbow wasn't a morning pony, she had missed quite the sight. Bitfrost wiggled around a bit, trying to dislodge himself in vain.

"Ugh, ponyfeathers..." he grumbled. He raised his voice to shout to his daughter. "Rainbow Dash! You lazy little filly! Get up!"

He chuckled as he heard the snoring cease and a loud tumbling sound, followed by the sound of something crashing and breaking. It killed him to not see the expression on her face, but he was sort of stuck in a wall, and it wasn't cool at all.

"Who--Who said that?” Rainbow Dash muttered loudly in the other room. “Dad, was that you? No, it couldn't have been, I must be dreaming..."

"No hun, you aren't dreaming,” Bifrost said loudly. “It is daddy, but I sort of defied the universe trying to teleport through your wall.” Realizing what had happened after he said it, he became embarrassed by his situation. “Could you come lend me a hoof?"

Within a moment Rainbow Dash came trotting around the corner her eyes lighting up at the sight. Her father, stuck in the wall. Her rainbow colored-mane was an absolute wreck, her wings were in need of a serious preening, her eyes were groggy still with sleep, and her pelt was matted and unkempt.

The grey-blue stallion cocked an eyebrow at his daughter. How could she look like she has been cooped up in her house for a week? He wondered.

"So, dad, how could you have hit the wall this badly?" The cyan mare asked with a slight chuckle.

Bifrost face-hoofed. "Dash, this isn't the time for puns! Help me out of here, would you?"

She continued to chuckle as she trotted over and began to work on pulling her father from the wall. This turned out to be harder than either of them thought. It was quite possible that in the past few years Bifrost had gained a bit of fat on his flanks, but not this much.

"Forget this dad, I've got another idea. Ya gotta trust me though..." Rainbow said hesitantly.

Looking unsure, the stallion replied, "Of course, hun."

Rainbow Dash turned about, and, from what he could tell, she was about to buck him like an apple tree. He tried not to move, simply trusting in his daughter, and he closed his eyes. He felt her hooves connect with his shoulders as he was rapidly dislodged from the wall. He fell from the home. He spread his wings and flew around to the front door this time, and waiting for him was Dash, with a broad grin upon her face.

"Where did you learn to do that?" Bifrost inquired as he landed, amazed at his daughter's accurate kick.

"My friend Applejack taught me, looks like it paid off in the long run, eh?"

"Yeah it did,” he replied. “Anyways..." Bifrost paused thinking how best to phrase his next sentence. "Hun, there is a lot to explain as to why I'm here, but I need you to trust me now."

"Dad, you look extremely serious... what's wrong?" The cyan mare asked, visibly concerned.

"Travel light Dashie,” Bifrost told his daughter. “Celestia has deemed that I come get you before I head back to Cloudsdale. Who knows why, but I wasn't one to question it. Maybe she has a plan for us in the events that are coming..."

"Dad, what's going on? That doesn't tell me anything at all!" she cried out, obviously not satisfied with her father's reply.

Bifrost looked her in the eyes calmly. "Dashie,” he said. “Just trust me."

She stood in front of him for a long moment, examining his expression, before finally deciding on what she would do. A fire softly lit within the rainbow-maned mare's eyes.

"Alright dad, I'll trust you.” She said. “I'll go grab a few things, just gimme a second." She headed inside quickly, before Bitfrost could object.

While he waited, Bifrost began to think again. All the events before him looked to point to Avalon finally taking to the throne, and maybe that was why Celestia wanted Bifrost and Rainbow Dash in Cloudsdale. Civil war was all but on the doorstep of the pegasi, waiting to break down the door. If Avalon could go before the Council of Five and claim his throne at last though, it was possible to avert the entire thing. What if war broke out anyways? What if Avalon arrived to claim his throne in the thick of things? What if--

"Okay Dad,” Dash broke into his thoughts. “I'm all ready."

Bifrost nodded to his daughter and spread his wings, taking to the skies again as she followed suit. Right now, he knew he had to start with Cloudsdale, and from there act accordingly. Something gnawed at him inside, though. He couldn't shake the feeling something bad was around the corner.

His daughter flew at his side. She had grown into a fine young mare over the past few years. He couldn't be a more proud father than he was right then. For all the age she showed, however, she would always be his little Dashie, no matter what happened, or how fast time changed the little fillies.

___________________________________________________________

The sun shone high above them, now in the skies as they set their eyes upon Cloudsdale at last. Bifrost instantly felt something was off about the atmosphere of the city, though. It was oppressive. This wasn't the same place he had almost fell asleep at last night.

"H-Hey dad, does something seem off about Cloudsdale to you?" Rainbow asked, a tint of worry in her voice.

She seemed to feel the shift in atmosphere as well. He swallowed hard, knowing something terrible was near. They flew onward, toward their house feeling, the eyes of every pegasus on them, even though most of them were in their homes. Why? Bitfrost wondered.

It was a short flight. As they came close to Bitfrost's home, though, they found it blockaded. One of the guards turned to look at them, and upon noticing Bifrost began to approach him.

The stallion was wearing the armor of the Captain, but he wasn't the same pegasus they had encountered last night. Something was definitely off, and he signaled this to his daughter with a cautionary flick of his tail. She caught the movement and slowed down behind him. This stallion seemed brutish in nature, in contrast to the highly disciplined air of the true Captain of Cloudsdale, Valor's Crest.

The guard spoke in a deep, lumbering voice. "Bifrost, I presume?"

"What if I am,” The stallion replied defiantly. “What right would you have to blockade my home as if to invade my privacy?"

"The right given by head council member Hurricane Rush." The imposter-Captain announced, a dark smile spreading across his face. Some other guards came forward with binding cuffs. "Bifrost, for aiding a pegasus in committing a murderous act, as well as plotting to aid this selfsame pegasus in overthrowing the Council of Five, Hurricane Rush has called for your immediate arrest and imprisonment. There will be no posted bail."

Bifrost's eyes shot wide in horror at the accusations. Hurricane did not make such brash decisions. Not unless he's being paranoid.

It was then Avalon's words rang in his mind, I wish to see how the Council will react to this threat. Bitfrost shoved it aside. No way could Avalon have known this would happen. He looked to his side, to his daughter, and realized that she may be the best hope for the future of Cloudsdale.

"And we see you brought your daughter as well,” the poser said with a sick delight. “I'm sure we can add her in with those charges already on your shoulders, Bifrost."

He looked back at the fake Captain of the guard, defiance in his eyes he flicked his tail. Once, to signal Rainbow to flee. He heard her whimper, and flicked his tail again irritably.

"I dare you to resist arrest, Bifrost.” The large guard goaded the grey blue stallion. “Just try it."

Rainbow Dash took flight at an amazing speed, and a few guards bolted after her, only to be instantly blocked by Bifrost. They diverted their attention to him, but instead of trying to cuff him, they attacked him. He dodged them easily. Their form was disgusting for royally-trained guards. Dash was well away from the brutes, and right now that was all that mattered to him. Even if she had no idea what was going on, she would very soon.

He began to swing his hooves back at the guards, using all the experience he had from his days in service, but he forgot just one detail: the phony Captain. It was in the middle of a counter to one of the guards he felt a massive weight hit him in the gut. The blunt end of an excessively heavy lance had somehow grown out of his stomach. He felt a cough bellow out of his body as both his breath and a small amount of blood was knocked from his body into the atmosphere below. As he looked down into the eyes of the guard Captain, he only saw darkness within them. A sick pleasure was being taken from the amount of pain he just inflicted upon Bifrost. The rainbow-maned stallion went limp, his consciousness fading out a lone thought crossed his mind. Avalon, my friend, I hope we can see each other again.

Chapter 5: Of Trials And Tribulations

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Avalon's dreams were troubled as he slept upon the temple at A'un. Images of his friend Bifrost imprisoned in chains swirling through his head. A dark figure escorting him to the execution yard that had not been used in Cloudsdale for a millennium. Bifrost was pushed down onto the block and asked, "Do you have any final words for this world?"

"I wish my friend Avalon only the best, and will sincerely miss him." Bifrost replied a tear in his eye.

Avalon couldn't move from where he was; all he could do was stand and watch as his friends life was ripped away from him. The grey stallion felt his tears run down his face as he slowly came back into the waking world. All he could hear around him was the loud fuming voice of an angry zebra. It was Amara, and Celestia knew, she sounded quite thoroughly vexed by something going on.

He began to stir and tried to move but found his limbs unwilling to cooperate with him.

"Gah, of all the times I need mobility..." He groaned aloud eyes still hazy with sleep.

Amara wasn't paying attention to him at all, and through his hazy eyes he could see another she zebra. This was probably Amara's apprentice Tanwei, but it didn't seem that it was the younger zebra the shaman was fuming about. The purple maned stallion just contented himself with laying quietly trying to understand what the alchemist was ranting about.

"After all these years all he is interested in is diplomatics and politics; you would think by now he understands the significance of Avalon's return! This is absolute idiocy on the grand chieftain's part. I mean its not like the Dragonsphere can move right now!"

Amara was just spouting off her fury as she paced back and forth. It was then the stallion began to really recognize her looks again. Her mane and pelt were striped like her fellow zebras save for one difference in that her stripes zigzagged like lightning. Her amber eyes were as always on fire when she was angry, and it still scared Avalon to see. The major difference he noticed that pained him was that her age had begun to show in little nuances here and there; if ever there was one he didn't want to see age claim it was her.

The silmarillion stallion grunted loudly as he made an effort to stand, his leg muscles screaming in protest of his stubbornness. Amara had noticed him now and was walking over, noticeably trying to contain her own tense emotions. He was always glad that she tried to shield him from her fury, when it wasn't directed at him that is. He could also notice that Tanwei's anxiety was fading from her body language as well, this was a much nicer atmosphere to be in.

"Avalon how are you able to be awake, when you have gone through situations so grave of late?" Amara asked with curiosity in her voice.

"My dreams were dark and they wouldn't allow me to rest any longer, but what is this I wake to find one as patient as you fuming over?" Avalon returned.

"Tis nothing you should trouble yourself over." the she zebra said reassuringly, "It is nothing I cannot take care of myself."

The stallion knew what she was doing and his body screamed for him to heed her words, but in his heart he acknowledged that he just did not have the time nor luxury for such a thing. He was standing now and of course he knew the next action he needed to take. He couldn't extend his wings because every time he did he felt like he was being struck by lightning in each wing; he had to go on hoof. He began striding toward the stairs of the temple and Amara looked horrified at his actions.

"S-Stop Avalon your body hasn't healed yet!" the zebra yelled after the stallion.

Her yells fell upon deaf ears though, as he continued making his way slowly down the steps of the pyramid like temple. He needed the shaman's permission for what he must do, but before that he needed the principle permission of the tribe chieftain. If the chief wasn't going to make time for him, then the purple maned stallion would make sure the chief would reconsider his choice. Avalon got things done when they were most urgent; even if it rubbed a pony, zebra, or griffin the wrong way.

After a good amount of effort he reached the bottom of the pyramid temple, and looked up at the sky fondly. The sky was starting to light up with the tints of morning hues; it looked as if he had slept at the very least for a whole day. He could hear the gentle stirrings of creatures all about the jungle around him; it was pleasant to actually hear peaceful sounds in the dense overgrowth before him. As he started toward the eastern barrier gate, his whole body screamed out. It lurched downward threatening to give under his weight, but he fought with all he had to keep from collapsing.

As he got a smooth trot going he couldn't help but get into a full gallop as he sped along through the jungle, the dew from the tendrils he hit cascading down onto his pelt made him feel alive. He wasn't taking the straight arrow path to the tribe's village, but this was so he could fully compose himself before the chief of the village without a single muscle giving out. It struck him as odd that he was so dutifully considering his situation and poise before going into a situation of high political tension.

The stallion laughed heartily, "Hah, my what has happened to me in such a short time?"

As the many creatures of the jungle arose they would stop and stare at the odd pegasus galloping along at a mild pace through their home. Avalon smiled as his legs began to feel much better; each muscle contracting and relaxing smoothly and fluidly with every bit of effort he put behind his morning run. It was about this time Avalon noticed something was missing from his windswept back, his saddlebags.

"Celestia curse my mind, Amara is going to kill me for that later..." He said gloomily aloud.

"Oh am I?" Avalon heard a voice call from beside him.

His head bolted up and over to his left side to see Amara galloping along beside him smiling, her own saddlebags on her back. If she hadn't got his bags then where could they be, maybe Tanwei he figured but asked to be sure.

"So is it safe to assume you left my saddlebags to Tanwei?"

"Of course, she has been racking up punishments lately with all her social interactions clouding her judgement." the zigzag striped zebra replied with a laugh.

Avalon figured this wasn't too severe of a punishment until he realized why Amara might be lenient with her apprentice. There was a time when the shaman's mind had been clouded as well, and the stallion knew it was partially his doing sixteen years ago. He smiled fondly at the memory, but quickly let it fade to the back of his mind. There were more pressing matters ahead of him, and he couldn't even begin to interpret how he had to act in front of the chieftain after all these years.

"Don't look so worried Avalon. Just let your brash, yet true heart determine how you will act. It has never led you astray before." Amara cooed gently.

It reminded him once again of that star swept night many years ago. "Wait, is Amara trying to make me remember that night from sixteen years ago?" he thought as he looked into her cool amber gaze. He couldn't be sure but he had to keep fighting her intentions; be they on purpose or not. He had an entire populace of pegasi to protect from utter destruction, and what he had to question most in his mind was what had caused the balance of the Council of Five to unhinge.

By the time the sun had risen and was climbing quickly towards the center of the sky, the two arrived at the northern barrier gate. Avalon had apparently shot past it in his blindly energetic gallop through the jungle, a fact that was still quite embarrassing to the pegasus.

"Amara who do you bring with you into the village?" The main guard at the gate inquired.

"I bring the great Dragonsphere Avalon with me." She announced proudly.

The guards looked absolutely stunned at this announcement and the main guard shouted to the zebra behind the gate controls, "Open the gates, the Dragonsphere has returned!"

Instead of waiting for Amara as he should have the second the gate began to move he began to bolt full throttle for the village. His heart was aloft in his chest, and he knew what he had to do to gain his audience with the chief. It was sure to be considered rude and absolutely uncouth of him, but he had no choice if he was going to get the chieftains notice.

He quickly found his way down the road to the village, and across the square he ran toward the chief's hut only to be halted by guards. Zebras were trotting about the village happily going about their usual day, and Avalon wished he could be here under different circumstances.

"What business have you with Chieftain Runesong, pegasus?" the younger guard inquired.

"To ask what sort of manners he still possesses after all of these years for one thing!" Avalon returned to the younger zebra.

"What permission got you past the barrier gates then I must ask you poor excuse for a pony?" the guard retorted obviously irritated at Avalon's last remark.

He exhaled impatiently putting a hoof to his face quickly before looking the guard in the eye and saying, "Do they even teach the kids anymore what heroes from outside your tribe look like anymore? I am the Dragonsphere and I will not be denied entry today."

As he declared this the guard looked absolutely quizzical. He was getting nowhere fast with this young male zebra, but he knew how to fix the situation. He rushed the guard who immediately took to a fighting stance to block him; at this Avalon leaped over him clearing him and sliding through the strings of beads that covered the doorway.

"Intruder, stop!" the guard shouted taking up pursuit.

Avalon knew where to head he took the hallway down until he found a staircase leading down to a subterranean level. He knew that the chief liked it down there for the cool refreshing temperature and the crisp air that often pervaded it. Even if there was a diplomat or whatnot here the purple maned stallion could guarantee Runesong would be down in the underground. He could hear the guards scrambling about above once he got into the main hall of the lower level, it made him laugh that they thought he would stay upstairs. "Silly young fools." Avalon thought with a smile.

It was a very small walk till he found a door that he knew went to the main lounge hall of Runesong. He reached out and gripped the doorknob turning it and pushing the door open briskly. He walked in as Runesong and another female zebra were speaking from opposite sides of a table, papyrus scrolls strewn across the table they talked over. The she-zebra looked at him with an icy glare as she summed him up. Avalon didn't let it bother him in the slightest as he strode forward toward Runesong with the utmost confidence.

"So you have no time for me anymore good Chieftain, I am hurt by this sentiment." Avalon said with an almost practiced nobility.

Runesong looked at him with a cocked eyebrow, "Avalon you know it is not that, but my matters with Chieftain Swiftstar had to come first. You know how the politics of our tribes is better than most do."

Avalon turned to Chieftain Swiftstar and bowed his head in respect before saying, "I do apologize for this intrusion, but it will only take a moment of your time to allow Runesong hear me out."

She stared at Avalon for a good amount of time before uttering simply, "Fine, this I can allow so long as you are not bothered by my presence."

"I am not at all bothered by your presence good Chieftain." He said curtly bowing to her again before turning back to Runesong. "Now will you hear me in my time of urgency?"

Runesong looked concerned as he replied, "Since Swiftstar has no qualms, then I guess I can hear you out Dragonsphere, Avalon. What is it you need of me?"

"I beg your permission to begin the Rites of Ascension with Amara." he asked humbly.

"WH-WHAT?" He replied in utter shock.

"It has come time Runesong...my destiny calls me to it forcibly. I must gain control of my Judgement."

"I-I...Has Amara consented to this Ava--oh who am I kidding she would the brash spirit she is. Avalon the trials will come before you face your avatar of judgement...has she told you her name yet?" the chieftain asked raising to his hooves.

"I don't hear much from her other than when she deems it is time to save my hide. We don't...talk too much." the purple maned stallion replied abashed.

"I see then I will give you one edge. Her name is Shia'Riel. Knowing her name will already catch her off guard, but the lessons you gain from your trials will be of the most use to you. May your ancestors be merciful to your spirit." Runesong finished placing one of his hooves on Avalon's temple.

Swiftsong interrupted, "You mean to say this pegasus is the bearer of an avatar, not only an avatar but thee one of judgement?"

Rune turned to her and simply replied, "Yes he is."

"Then it is indeed an odd fate that our two tribes sought peace with one another..." the she zebra mused.

Avalon turned to her serious curiosity in his eyes, "What do you mean by odd fate?"

"One of the other creatures of the world that bears an avatar resides in her tribe as it would happen Dragonsphere." Rune answered.

"Creatures?"

"Not just ponies are gifted with the existence of avatars. Zebras and griffins can also bear them among other species. I simply meant to hint there is a zebra that bears an avatar in Swiftstar's tribe."

In such a short time the silmarillion had learned more than he knew what to do with, and yet Swiftstar seemed absolutely bored with the thought of her avatar. How could she be so nonplussed by someone with such a great power, unless that zebra had one that was less combative. That would probably irritate Swift to have so much power with no way of using it effectively.

It was at this time the guards came busting through the chieftain's door to seize Avalon, but before they could do so Runesong blocked them from their goal. He simply lifted his hoof and pointed back to the door from which they came. They all obeyed the command and went; save for one bold guard.

"Cobalt leave now, this pegasus is my guest and you have no authority to accost him any further." the chief commanded in a threatening tone.

The young zebra grunted in disapproval, but followed suit with the other guards. It was always impressive to see how well Runesong's zebra's obeyed his authority as leader. He let his head sag down as he shook it in embarrassment. A moment later through the doorway came Amara.

"Uh is there something I've missed here Runesong?" she asked with an incredulous look at the mess the guards had made in their pursuit of the pegasus intruder.

"You both just could not wait for one second could you." Runesong muttered pitifully.

"Well I think I will head back to the guest room you had prepared for me Runesong. It looks like everyone wants your attention today." Swiftstar said getting up from her place at the table, weaving her way around Amara, and then heading down the hall to her room.

"So is it safe to assume Avalon has already asked your permission for the Rites?" Amara inquired walking up to the chieftain zebra.

"He has. In fact he just learned he isn't the only bearer of an avatar." Runesong said flatly.

"I give my permission, but I need to know your judgement before I proceed."

Rune raised his head and stated regally, "I Runesong give full permission for Dragonsphere Avalon to begin his Rites of Ascension, under the guidance and will of shaman Amara Spiriteye."

Avalon, despite his inner reservations, felt as giddy as a young colt at the permission bestowed unto him. He didn't have to try to resist jumping up and down though, as his body began to weaken again from his currently slowed pace. He nearly lost his footing quite noticeably and this was enough to draw the chief's attention.

"What is wrong with you Avalon something seems wrong...almost rushed in fact."

"Well I-"

"He has been pushing himself above and beyond his body's limitations again." Amara immediately cut Avalon's excuse off with the truth.

"Then I leave him in your authority and care now Amara. I need to get back to the diplomacy paperwork, and review what Swift has left here upon the table." He said dismissively walking back to the papyrus scroll littered table.

"Come with me Avalon it's time we prepared you for your trials ahead." the she zebra declared.

The stallion followed her up and out of the Chieftain's dwelling. At first he wondered why she seemed to have such a bounce in her step, but once again slow to the uptake he noticed they weren't heading toward her hut. They were heading out into the jungle westwards, and he was quite sure as to where. It looked like getting past the loving she zebra's feelings would be one of Avalon's first trials to overcome, and it was not a very pleasing thought in his mind at all.

As he followed her onward he tried to think how to go about this whole matter, he had to consider her feelings as well as his own. He knew his duty far outweighed what either of them wanted, but could he really bring himself to do that. All of the thoughts racing through his mind made a burdensome ache grow with each passing second. Before he knew it they had arrived in a secluded bit of jungle not many knew about besides Amara and himself.

She found a spot and settled down into it motioning affectionately for the stallion to take his place beside her. He hesitated still weighing his choices. The zebra looked crestfallen at his reluctance, and yet she also looked proud. Avalon could not even begin to understand why pride was glinting along the edges of her eyes.

The zigzag striped zebra sighed, "You do not understand what your hesitation symbolizes do you?"

Surprised again at her insight he simply nodded his acceptance.

"You hesitate for you must weigh all options before you before taking action. You know my side, your side, and your inevitable destiny's side. You do not wish to hurt those that mean something unto you, and thus show great compassion and considerations. They are marks that will make you a great leader one day..." she said with a pause, "...the first test of your character is complete."

"So it was a test after all?" Avalon found himself speaking his thought aloud.

The zebra nodded, "Indeed it was, but now for my request. As the caretaker of your rites, I deem your body will not be ready to begin for two days. You must allow your catatonic rest to take you for that long at the least, there is no negotiation on this."

Avalon frowned at her terms. He didn't have the time to be resting while tragedy stood on the doorstep, let alone two whole days.

"My request is within this two day time." Amara began a blush coming to her face, "During this time when I come to my time to sleep, I ask that you allow me permission to join you here and rest at your side. Just one last time."

The request shocked the stallion into protest, "Amara I don't think that is wise, situation considered it would make it harder for you to--"

The she zebra cut him off, "Avalon stop! I know full well what I ask, and am entirely aware of the possible consequences. I just...I need this to say good-bye to our past."

Avalon was silent for a long time fully considering her request. He exhaled heavily as he came to terms with his decision.

"I shall allow this one final joy to you Amara, but nothing more than being at my side." the stallion said with a serious face.

She nodded and stood up again, indicating that the stallion should take her place. He did so and the warmth she had left there instantly seeped into his sore and aching body. He felt that his sleep was so close now as Amara left him with parting words.

"In these two days I shall prepare your Rites, and they will take place in the Emerald Deep Cavern. The only place you will be able to commune with your ancestors."

Her words ending, the pegasus' eyes fell shut and sleep took him away. His dreams were not in any way prophetic this time, and there were not many of them either. It was a nice feeling to have an untroubled sleep; Avalon had no doubt he would wake up fully invigorated again.

It hadn't seemed to have been all that long before he was shaken back into the waking world by the shaman. She was now wearing a hooded maroon cloak, Avalon could see through his hazy eyes.

"It is time for your ascension Dragonsphere, Avalon. We must begin the ceremony before the sun can raise its head above the horizon. Stand now and follow me to the Emerald Deep Caverns." Amara said with cryptic professionalism.

Avalon rose to his hooves and as the shaman turned south and began walking, he took the first steps toward following her. The jungle was silent and still aside from himself and Amara, it was exceedingly eerie feeling to the stallion. The sky was still dark with the sun on its way to rising, although still not close enough to light the sky. He looked ahead at his compatriot to see that the very body language she wore was serious in every way, her judgement wouldn't be clouded this day.

It didn't take them long to arrive at a sheer grey cliff face with a lone cave carved into its side. As they got closer the stallion noticed the chieftain waiting at the entrance. They came to him and halted Amara nodding her notice of him, he turned to the cave and began to shout into it.

"Great spirits behold this pegasus that stands before ye. He hath traveled long and far in his life, and has found that he has but one lesson left to learn. It is a lesson only you can teach, a lesson that will show him the way to stand as one with his avatar. Spirits I send unto you Avalon, the sole bearer of the avatar of judgement! Treat him with what measures you deem necessary."

Runesong moved off to the side of the entrance bowing deeply, and extending one hoof outward in a gesture that ushered us into the cave. Amara did not move, and the stallion took this as his cue to enter first. He strode over to the entrance of the cave where he could have sworn he heard a voice say to him, "Welcome Avalon...We have much...In store for you..."

"D-Did you heard that?" he uttered in shock looking back at the shaman.

Amara simply headbutted him in the flank and said, "No, now get in there. We don't have time for delays."

He looked back into the cave wary of it every hoof of the way. The voice he had heard reminded him of the very voice his avatar spoke to him with, and it put him greatly on edge. He walked in the lead along the winding tunnels that seemed to go on forever. The darkness that surrounded them bothered him intensely, but he found his hooves carrying him forward as if by their own will. It was as if he knew exactly the way to go without ever having been here before.

It was a short time before they came into view of a gentle light glowing from the end of the tunnel, and a few moments later they entered into the cavernous hall. There was no light filtering in from the outside world, and yet the walls glowed with a faint green light all around. The emeralds themselves were alight by some odd force that Avalon could not even begin to explain.

At the far end of the hall there was an altar carved out of the very emeralds that lined the cavern they stood within. Amara moved over to the altar and began reaching into her saddlebags removing various items. The most notable object looked to be incense vases, but why would she need that much as an offering for the spirits.

"Amara why do you need so much incense?" he ventured to ask her.

"It is more for you than the spirits. It is a form of incense mixed with a spiritual herb called exohilten. It will broaden your ability to connect with the spirits of your ancestors. Which is exactly why you must come forth and lay your muzzle between the two vases as I light them!" She commanded with a bit of irritation in her voice.

He walked over and laid down in front of the altar his head between the containers of spiritual incense. "Why is Amara being so harsh with me?" the purple maned stallion pondered dejectedly.

"I don't do it on purpose Avalon, it is because I have to let my own spiritual powers flow out and it has been taxing on my mind." Amara replied to his thought suddenly.

He looked up to her clearly stunned, "Wait, Amara you can read minds?"

She nodded and replied, "Yes but only when I remove the seals on my spiritual powers. I had to release the seals so I could be entirely aware of your condition as you take on these trials. Now if you don't mind could we start?"

He simply nodded and set his head back down again as she exhaled a soft sigh. He wondered how she would light the incense without a fire, but she had more than likely come prepared for this. He could hear her pull something else from her bag and she began striking them together forcefully. He heard the object ignite, but when she went to place them inside the incense vases he could not believe his eyes. She casually dropped one small emerald in each container; the starling part was they both were burning with a green flame.

"As the smoke comes out of these containers Avalon you must breath deep and let your body, mind, and spirit flow into relaxation and freedom. Separate yourself from everything in that moment and you will experience a new vision." Amara instructed him.

Avalon did as she said letting his body relax as he laid in front of the altar, the smoke beginning to flow out of the vases drifted down to encompass his head. He inhaled it deeply and with a calm about his mind uncharacteristic of him. He exhaled and inhaled several times before he began to feel an odd separation between his body and spirit. He told himself calm as he could, "Just let it proceed, let it happen..."

His eyes were blinded in a bright white light and he found that he couldn't shield his eyes in the least. It felt like he was being transported through a bright tunnel to somewhere not of this world. Within a mere second everything went dark, and he could feel his eyes had closed tight. He felt like he was falling toward the ground but he could not find the power to open his eyes. With a heavy thud he hit the ground, and felt control of his body become his again.

He could hear a cadence of flutes playing around him and even a guitar strumming in an even rhythm. He opened his eyes to find himself laying in an aerial canyon he knew well; it was his father's favorite place to be in the world. From the looks of things he was inside the canyon standing at the bottom, and the music around him grew louder a drum joining in the melody.

Finally a voice started in, it was his father.

Oh dear son won't you lend me your ear, while I call you a fool,
You were kissed by a shaman one night in the jungle,
And later insisted your life's path was true,
Yet destiny's promise still had yet to find you.

"I know it's you father, show yourself to me!" Avalon shouted.

A voice came from behind him, "But my son I've been here the entire time."

The stallion spun around and saw his father standing face to face with him.

"I know why you are here in the realm of life after death, but what is curious is why they would send you to me. I surrendered my avatar before your mother and I got married, so what could I have to teach you?" The older silmarillion mused.

"There must be something important since I have been brought here father." the grey stallion said simply.

"Hmm..." his father put a hoof to his chin in thought.

He had the same jade green eyes and purple mane as Avalon, but his pelt was a deeper navy blue with occasional splotches of black here and there. His cutie mark upon his flank was a flaming spear, and he had always thought it looked like it was plunging downward for a kill.

"My son..." the blue stallion interrupted Avalon's thoughts, "...we are not father and son during this time. I would prefer you call me by my name."

"I, uh...of course Arcaeus." the grey stallion stumbled his reply.

"Good. Some of the best lessons in life require very little in the way of words. I can convey to you my lesson best in action." He mused almost aimlessly in his son's eyes.

"But father...Guh!"

Avalon was cut off by a vicious charging attack from his father, "I told you to stop calling me that, face me as an equal now!"

The attack had launched the grey stallion forcefully into the canyon wall, and it felt less like a cloud and more like a rock. As he fell from the wall to the ground he looked up into his father's eyes, and he knew well enough to know this fight would have to run its course.

His father rushed him again shouting, "Avalon your trial with me starts now!"

Through Adversity

by Dynasty-Kaine

Chapter 1: Against the Grain

Chapter 2: On The Wings Of Innocence

Chapter 3: The Road Not Taken

Chapter 4: The Hidden Storm

Chapter 5: Of Trials And Tribulations