Shovel Knight and Shield Knight embark on a new quest in Equestria. New challenges, as well as new feelings, arise.
Reunited with his beloved Shield Knight, Shovel Knight continues journeying with her, just like old times. But when what appears to just be run-of-the-mill loot ends up teleporting the pair to a new dimension, The pair will find themselves not only facing a new journey. but new challenges within themselves as well.
*Warning- minor spoilers for Shovel Knight* __________________________________________________________________
7/21/2014- We made the popular stories list! Thank you everyone! Who knows, maybe we'll make the feature box? Perhaps? 7/22/2014- I don't even... we actually made the feature box. 4/3/2016- We once again made the feature box. Thank you all again for your continued support of the story.
Prologue- Thoughts of days past and beyond *edited*
Those were just a few of the outstanding words when it came to journeying with his beloved Shield Knight.
It has been about half a year since Shovel Knight was finally able to save her from the evil of the enchantress's magic. After he had blacked out in the final battle, he thought that he failed. True, before her rescue, he often dreamed about her falling and himself catching her.
But there was no dream.
He thought that he had failed, and if that be the case, he would prefer his presumed death over that world. However, when he awoke, there she was. Laying next to him against the wood log.
He had done it.
They had done it.
They won and were together again at last. It was not long before they recovered from the injuries sustained in the final battle, and they were once again adventuring. Defeating monsters, striking the earth, and hoarding the large amounts of grand treasure they harbored in their twelve acre land. This was truly a blessed dream that had come true.
"Shovel Knight?"
"*snorke* Hm?" he awoke from his daze.
"Ha, at this rate, the legendary Shovel Knight's legacy will be that of his all-mighty snore," she chuckled.
"Heh, perhaps so," he chuckled a bit himself. "Now then," he got up and stretched, taking his shovel that had been leaning up against the log and securing it on his back. "Where shall our next destination be?"
"Hm, a good question indeed," she inquired, shifting through the large amounts of treasure maps and bounty posters she kept in her traveling parcel bag. "This appears to be promising," she spoke of a peculiar map they had purchased from a merchant a few villages back. Apparently, there were a few abandoned mine shafts in the hills eastward, most likely because most of the lands miners and explorers were now taking part in Mole Knight's excursions.
"Promising indeed," Shovel Knight said, hoisting up his own parcel bag. "In that case should we be on our way?"
Shield Knight smiled and nodded. They proceeded to follow the map's directions. It was not far east from where they had set up their temporary camp the night before. Though not long, the small journey to the mine gave Shield Knight a few moments to think. She did not remember much during the time the dark magic had possessed her. She did not want to think of the horrible things she may have done while under its influence. However, while her body was under the complete control of the amulet's dark power, part of her still remained when she became the Enchantress. All she saw was a dark and unforgiving abyss, but she knew that Shovel Knight would come. She always knew that he had her back no matter what, and she had his.
...But, then what?
It had taken years of adventuring to build up the trust she had in him. Then there was just that, adventuring and questing. Shield Knight never truly thought outside of it. True, on occasion the pair would retire to their land, and enjoy a small and peaceful vacation. However, no matter they ventured there was one thing they would most certainly never escape.
Time.
One day, she would grow old. They both would. But what about everything up to that point? The future always held both danger and mystery. Were they to only continue on endless and exciting adventures until they retire? Perhaps, but a thought of a different life had indeed cross her mind. What of settling down? Shovel Knight's shovel was good for than just digging into their enemies. She recalled his stories of his life of seclusion during the time the tower was sealed. He farmed, and grew quite a crop on their land as well. They wouldn't have to worry about food, and the countless riches they had collected would be far more than the two would ever need in their lifetimes.
What about people other than them? What about...children? Shield Knight stopped in her tracks, looking up to the sky for perhaps some sort of answer to her question. Were herself and Shovel Knight to be wed in the near future? Was it too soon? What about-
Shield Knight snapped out of her deep thought at hearing his voice. It was far too soon to think about such things. Right now, they had an abandoned mine shaft full of underground passages, caves, and possible treasures to investigate.
"Sorry, I was just in a bit of deep thought. Let us keep onward," She smiled and Shovel Knight nodded as they continued to their destination. It was not long before they arrived at the entrance to the mine shaft. It appeared to be more recently abandoned, as it appeared to be in good condition from the outside. Upon entering and lighting a lantern, they discovered a path leading downward, further into the bowels of the earth. Agreeing to continue venturing in further, the duo followed the path. Along the way, they found many scattered pick-axes. So far, no human remains appeared to be in sight, confirming it was only recently abandoned.
"Look there," Shovel Knight said pointing ahead a to little further down the path. A strange violet glow emitted from just up ahead from what appeared to be the way to the next part of the mine shaft.
"I see, let us proceed with caution then," Shield Knight said. Nodding to each other, Shield Knight drew her shield as well as Shovel Knight drew his trusty shovel, as well as preparing one of his relics in case it was needed. Proceeding slowly and cautiously, they approached the violet light at the end of the tunnel. Upon entering the room, it appeared to be filled with forgotten loot, most likely lift by careless miners, with a glowing violet diamond sitting atop a pile of said loot. Carefully going forward, Shovel Knight picked it up with his shovel, in case the jewel held some sort of magic.
"It looks beautiful," Shield Knight commented as Shovel Knight brought the violet jewel in for closer inspection. The two stared at its glowing beauty, admiring it. It was most certainly the brightest jewel they had come across in their travels.
That's when they began to hear whispers.
Going into defensive stances upon hearing the sounds, they readied themselves for possible incoming attacks.
"Show yourselves!" Shovel Knight shouted.
"Cave trolls perhaps?" Shield Knight said with her shield ready. Strange, cave trolls usually sprung traps from the shadows, but there was no traps on the path at all.
"Lies..." the whispers began to say.
"No, if this was recently abandoned then they would not have populated it yet," Shovel Knight said looking to see where the whispers may be coming from.
"Deceit..."
"Quick, Shield Knight, let us depart before-"
"You shall PAY FOR YOUR SINS!"
Bright light engulfed the two as their vision faded into black.
...
A never ending sea of darkness.
...
Sinking deeper and deeper.
...
HELP!
Shovel Knight opened his eyes and gasped for air. He was in the middle of a field, a violent storm tearing apart the landscape.
"Shovel Knight! Help!"
He could see Shield Knight further off in the distance. He raced forward, wanting to get them both out of this violent storm.
You cannot save her...
As he rushed forward, the soggy ground beneath him turned to a hard, cold stone.
"Foolish. Little. Shovel Knight."
The area around him turned to brick walls, going upwards to what appeared to be forever. A red full moon shined through a cracked glass pane above, where Shovel Knight looked in horror as he saw a silhouette.
The Enchantress floated downwards, sadistically smiling all the while.
"She was never yours to save."
"No..." he fell to his knees.
The Enchantress laughed as the glass pane above shattered.
All of these things could pretty much be said about how the weather was outside today in Equestria. Regardless of such hot weather, ponies had to do their jobs.
Including getting apples from apple trees.
"Ugh," AppleJack huffed as she bucked another apple tree. "Ah know it's the middle of July, but why do we need to have such plum hot weather?" she thought aloud. True, her and her brother Big Macintosh were used to working under such conditions in the summer time.
It didn't mean they had to like it.
There luckily weren't any meetings at the friendship palace today, so she didn't have to worry about that. Still, she and Granny Smith still had to go to the market tomorrow, and the weather was going to be just as muggy. Wonderful. Well no pony said that apple farming would be easy, but this was Applejack and her family's pride, joy, and how they made a living. She bent down her head to pick up a few stray apples that hadn't fallen into the buckets, until-
"Applejack!" she stopped picking up stray apples off the ground and turned around to see her younger sister rushing towards her in a panic.
"Apple Bloom? What's wrong?" she asked in concern as Apple Bloom stopped in front of her, huffing and puffing all the while.
"Somethin' jus'-" she puffed, "Fell in the orchard! Somethin' big!"
"The hay?" Applejack said shocked. She began to see what Apple Bloom meant, as she saw some smoke not too far in the distance, further into the apple orchard. "Alright, tell Big Mac and then wait in the house with Granny, I'll go an' check this out."
Applejack and Apple Bloom went their separate ways. Though Applejack thought in the back of her mind-
"This is what I get for complain', ain't it?"
She continued to rush to the smoke ahead, hoping that whatever it was, it didn't start a fire.
Shovel Knight gasped for air as he immediately sat up. He frantically looked at his surroundings. Where was he?! It looked like some sort of room. The surface beneath him felt soft.
"N-Now, take it easy there feller. Everythin's alright."
He looked forward, seeing some sort of orange creature. He could not waste any more time. Leaping forward and pinning the creature to the floor, he shouted-
"Where is she?!"
"Applejack!" Shovel Knight looked behind him to see a smaller, yellow creature. He quickly looked forward, seeing his shovel against a wooden wall. Jumping off the creature, he grabbed his shovel, and raced past the yellow creature. He ran to his right, not noticing the stairs in front of him. Despite his fall, he quickly grabbed his shovel and hoisted himself back up, and burst through the door.
"Shield Knight!" He looked around, seeing a bigger, reddish creature. "You!" it looked at him then darted away. "Wait!" he dashed for the creature. It entered a building, in with Shovel Knight in pursuit. He looked left and right, not seeing it in sight. However, he them immediately took notice of what was in front of him. "Shield Knight!" she had been laid down on what appeared to be hay. He went forward, hugging her as she slept on the hay. "You're safe..."
He was not sure where he was, but as long as they are both alive, he knew everything would work out somehow...
It took a couple of good heaves, but AppleJack and her brother brought the creatures back to the barn. They were both wearing what looked like armor. The one with the red armor was scuffed up a little though, so they brought it to the barn, and brought the blue armored one up to AppleJack's room. Until, of course, the blue one woke up about half an hour later.
"Where is she?!" AppleJack would say she was fairly strong, but this creature pinned her down without a problem. Hearing the noise, AppleBloom ran upstairs to see what was wrong.
"AppleJack!" AppleBloom looked terrified, thinking that whatever that thing was, it was about to eat her older sister. Thankfully instead, it grabbed its shovel a headed for the door, and she immediately jumped out of the way. Once it sounded like it was out of the house, AppleBloom trotted up to her sister. "Are you alright?"
"Been better sugarcube," AppleJack said getting back up on her hooves. They cautiously went outside. Big Mac trotted up to them and pointed at the barn. He was able to lead the blue guy there and now he was with the red one in the barn. AppleJack sighed and said, "All right, ah'm gonna go get Twilight for some help. Make sure they stay in the barn- wait, where's Granny?"
Shovel Knight held Shield Knight in his arms, sitting on a bale of hay. She was sleeping, thank the gods. He was not entirely sure what exactly had taken place. The last place he remembered being is in that mine. Were they attacked? He was uncertain. As long as they were in a safe place, they should be okay.
"Ya'll look mighty tired," Shovel Knight heard a southern accented voice. Such an accent was rare in the land. Looking up, he saw a lime green colored creature. Now being calm, he tooked notice of the creature's details. It appeared to be frail, even elderly with its white hair. So he did not worry about possible danger. From the lighter tone of voice he assumed it was an elder female. Looking at her though, she appeared to share a build similar to that of a horse. No, something smaller. Perhaps a pony?
"Indeed I am." he responded, realizing how fatigued he actually was.
"Well, ya'll can rest here as much as ya like," she smiled.
Shovel Knight took notice of his surroundings into greater detail. He appeared to be in a barn of some sort.
"Is... this your home?"
"Well ah don't sleep in here, that's for plum sure," her soft smile encouraged him for further conversation.
"My apologies miss. We truly did not intend to invade your home."
"Now ya stop that. Ya'll were the ones that were scruffed up out in the orchard. Ah'm just happy ya'll are alright."
"Thank you for your kindness and hospitality," Shovel Knight said happily, a smile under his helmet.
"Hm hm hm," Rarity hummed happily as she trotted down the street. Today has been a wonderful. She received two new orders for dresses, both from Canterlot, just this morning. On top of that she got an AMAZING deal on the fabrics for the dresses. Today was positively the best - day - EV---
A whoosh went through the air.
Looking up, expecting to see Rainbow Dash doing some sort of stunt once again, she was surprised to see a purple trail instead of a multi-colored one."That's odd," Rarity commented. Twilight rarely flew at such speeds unless it was a true emergency. Looking ahead, she then saw her friend AppleJack galloping with haste down the street. "AppleJack?"
"Sorry Rarity, can't talk now!" she said as she galloped by.
"Wait!" she said, concerned for her friend. She galloped up and along-side AppleJack. "What's going on?"
"Ya wouldn't believe if ah told ya. If ya wanna help them come on!" AppleJack said increasing her speed.
Rarity galloped after her friend, wondering what sort of emergency could be going on.
Shovel Knight lost track of time as he continued to talk with Ms. Smith. He had become well acquainted with her over what he assumed was about an hour or so. His previous assumptions were confirmed as she was indeed a pony. As it turns out, she part of a rather large clan, and she along with her grandchildren live here in this Sweet Apple Acres. From her description, it sounded like quite the large orchard that was just outside the barn doors.
"I see. You sell your apples and apple treats in a local market?"
"Yup, we make deliveries too. Course' I do all the bakin'" she said, clearly proud of her abilities despite her old age. As they got deeper in conversation, the more he learned about the world he and Shield Knight were now currently in. Equestria, was name of the country. His thoughts slipped back to Shield Knight at brief points during their conversation, still asleep in his arms. He had some explaining to do about their current situation when she awoke.
"Are ya sure ya'll are alright sugarcube? Ya haven't even taken off that there helmet of yours the whole time ya been here." Ms. Smith asked politely concerned.
"Oh, yes." Shovel Knight rarely took off his helmet. It was lighter than it looked, he was easily able to breath, and of course always provided protection for his head. He wore it when he slept. Perhaps he should take it off-
"Granny!" Shovel Knight turned his head to his left side, seeing the somewhat exhausted looking orange pony bursting in through the barn doors.
"Shh!" Ms.Smith shushed her, "Can't ya see we've got somepony sleepin'?" she said pointing her hoof to Shield Knight.
"S-Sorry," the orange pony said trotting to Ms.Smith's side, turning to look at Shovel Knight.
"Good. Now then-" Ms.Smith cleared her throat,"Mr. Shovel Knight, ah'd like ya to meet my granddaughter AppleJack."
AppleJack and Shovel Knight stared at each other, both waiting for the other to say something.
Nothing but silence.
"Um, I am sorry about before," Shovel Knight said apologetically to AppleJack.
"*Huff, Huff* Honestly, AppleJack, could you be bothered to slow down a little next time?" A pony, this time with a coat of snow white fur and violet mane, entered the barn. Followed by another pony with lavender fur and a mane of deeper purple with a magenta stripe in it.
"Sorry Rare, I was in a bit of a rush," AppleJack smiled sheepishly.
At first, Shovel Knight believed them to be more of Ms.Smith's grandchildren. Until he noticed a peculiar difference. They all had markings, or rather symbols, on their posteriors. Both AppleJack's and Ms.Smith's had that of apples and apple pie respectively. However, these two other ponies had symbols that of what appeared to be diamonds and a six pointed star. Perhaps these markings signified their clans?
"Mh..." Shovel Knight looked down, hearing the slight mumble. "S-Shovel...Knight?" Shield Knight said, stirring from her slumber. "Shovel Knight?" she sat up on his lap as the ponies looked at her.
"Shield Knight, you're awake," he said putting a hand on her back to keep her steady. "Are you feeling alright?"
"I suppose so, a little drowsy," she carefully moved off of Shovel Knight and the hay bale, regaining her footing and balance.
"Well, hello there missy!" Ms.Smith joyously greeted Shield Knight.
"Oh, yes... hello..." she looked at Ms.Smith, not exactly knowing what to her address her as, or even knowing what exactly she was to begin with.
AppleJack knocked on the door of the palace with the speed and fury of a jackhammer. She said that two odd creatures had landed in the orchard and that Granny Smith might be in trouble. Now though, she wasn't even sure what was going on. Granny Smith was fine, and that's what mattered. These creatures on the other hoof, seemed to be more of the injured ones, if not fatigued. In fact, they seemed rather nice. Though, the question that still needed to be answered for her was simple-
A magical land that is inhabited by that of a variety of different races, the most common being ponies.
It certainly was not the strangest thing Shovel Knight and Shield Knight had ever encountered on their travels together.
After Shield Knight had recuperated, the group of now consisting of two knights and four ponies, decided to exit barn and sit down and talk more in the more comfortable environment of the house. There, a few minor introductions began since details of where they currently are were already established. The pony possessing white fur, violet mane, and an apparent eye for fashion is named Rarity.
Quite the name for one whom also searches for jewels.
Such topic came up as the two knights mentioned they were both adventurers and treasure seekers. Something in which Rarity was quite excited to hear about, more so the treasure seeking parts than anything else.
Shovel Knight hoped she would gladly hope that she not end up becoming the equivalent of an equine Treasure Knight.
Next was her highness Princess Twilight Sparkle. Whom was actually really not one much for such formalities. Her story was indeed an interesting one. She was actually a student to another ruler of land, whom which controlled movement of their sun, a became a princess herself when she fully recognized the values of friendship. A heartwarming story indeed.
Hopefully there is not a Princess Knight as well.
Midday gave on to dusk as the group continued to become more acquainted. As nightfall was fast approaching, and Shovel Knight's and Shield Knight's fatigued conditions, it was decided that the would retire for the night. Shovel Knight decided that come morning, he would want to repay the apples for their hospitality by helping with fields. AppleJack did not object to such as herself and Ms. Smith would be busy attending the town market tomorrow, leaving only Big Macintosh and AppleBloom. Shield Knight herself would have also helped, until they ran into an interesting predicament.
They had no clothing besides their armor.
True, it was not that big of an issue usually. However, the weather outside tomorrow would be quite humid, as they learned the pegasi control the weather in the land. While Shovel Knight was used to such conditions while farming, Shield Knight had no farming experience. On top of that, if this hot weather were to continue, they highly doubted they would be able survive constant heat in metal armor. Luckily for them Rarity was indeed a spinstress, owning her own boutique.
Thus, it was decided that Shield Knight would spend the night at Carousel Boutique so that she may acquire new clothing in the morning, and Shovel Knight would stay at Sweet Apple Acres to fulfil his personal obligation come dawn.
So, the two knights went their separate ways as night began to fall upon Equestria.
One could say Rarity was quite excited. Okay, slight understatement, she was SO EXCITED! She got design clothing for entirely new creature she had never encountered before! Of course, she kept such high energy under control. A lady must keep her composure, yes? In truth, it did not take all that long too get to the Carousel Boutique. The streets of Ponyville were rather quiet at night, meaning there truly wasn't any uproar about a mysterious new being suddenly coming into town. Rarity opened the door and gleefully raised her voice to say-
"Sweetie Belle! We have a guest! Come down here!"
"Coming!" the filly ran down the stairs, "High nice to-" Sweetie Belle stopped in her tracks, and looked in a bit of a shocking awe mixed in with some curiosity.
"Hello there," Shield Knight kneeled down at smiled at Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle smiled with filly-like glee.
"Sweetie Belle, this is Mrs. Knight, she will be staying with us tonight," Rarity happily said unloading her saddle bags of the material she had purchased earlier in the day. "Now go upstairs and get ready for bed." Sweetie Belle nodded a said good night to Shield Knight and Rarity before heading back upstairs.
"Here you are Mrs. Knight," Rarity floated over a magenta nightgown into Shield Knight's... hands, was it? "That nightgown should be large enough to fit you darling. It wasn't designed for a pony's specific shape, so it should be fine until I can make you a proper dress in the morning."
"Thank you very much, Rarity."
"Not a problem at all Mrs.Knight, I am the element of generosity after all."Shield Knight looked a bit surprised, now realizing that Rarity had been calling her 'Misses' all this time. "I must you're quite the lucky lady."
"Hm?"
"You and your husband's adventures sound quite riveting, and how he saved from the tower, oh how romantic!" Rarity looked up at ceiling, dreamy eyed.
"I-I'm afraid you are mistaken."
"Pardon?"
"Knight is not my last name," she giggled a little, but then stopped as she she said,"Shovel Knight and I are not yet wed."
"Oh, my apologies darling." Rarity said. Shield Knight didn't seem upset with her, however it appeared that she may be upset about something else. However, now wasn't the time to ask about such things, but she believed she had the perfect plans for such a conversation come morning. For now, they decided to head to bed for the night.
The light of the morning sun had barely scratched the surface of the sky. However, such things did not stop Shovel Knight from his work. He remembered his days of isolation. The days in which the Enchantress's tower was still sealed. Those were dark times for him, sinking further into a deep depression. During that time, all he did was farm.
Shovel Knight continued his work, plowing and planting with his shovel. That is until he heard a young voice greeting him-
"Mornin' Mr.Knight!" Shovel Knight turned to see the younger sister of AppleJack, AppleBloom, approaching him.
"Good morning," he replied, going back to his digging, plowing, and planting.
"Um," AppleBloom began hesitantly, "Ah kinda wanna ask ya somethin' Mr.Knight."
"Yes?" he temporarily stopped his farming process and turned to face the filly.
"Ah, well, ya look mighty good with farmin' and stuff, but..." she paused, "How did ya become Knight?"
That question made Shovel Knight's blood run cold.
"Ah- ah mean, ya see before ah asked my sister and her friends how they found out their special talents. An, since you look good at both farmin' and bein' a knight, ah was wondering if you could tell me yours..."
Shovel Knight calmed himself hearing that. He recalled hearing yesterday of the true nature of the symbols on the posteriors of ponies. Calling them 'cutie marks' they represented a pony's true unique skill. As such, it was a coming of age ritual. However, it did not stop AppleBloom from forming her own group with two others, to find the truth of their marks. What was it again? Yes, the Cutie Mark Crusaders. They were more known for causing childish mischief on their quests than anything else, but Shovel Knight admired such determination.
He remembered hearing the story of how the Crusaders asked the element bearers of how they came to get their marks.
Shovel Knight kneeled down to the curious filly.
"Well, my friend, it is not the greatest of tales..." AppleBloom listened intently to Shovel Knight's story. "It was some time ago, far enough that I can only account few events in detail..."
"Well, at least I didn't spill the water" I said, sighing to myself and collecting the pale of water in which miraculously didn't tip over in my fall. I returned to my home not too far from the river. I lived with just my father, never knowing my mother as she died not long after giving birth to me when the plague swept the south-western lands. "Father! I'm back!" The small cottage was strangely silent...
"Father? Are you here?" I progressed onward through small cottage and into the living place.
What I saw was horrifying.
The small amount of possessions we owned were either torn or smashed to pieces,
"Y-You and yer pa were robbed?!" AppleBloom stated in surprise.
"Close actually. They did not take anything of ours, but they took my father with them..." Shovel Knight paused to compose himself to continue his story. "It did not take me long to figure out it was raiders. There were already rumors about them being in the area. That is when I most likely did the most dangerous thing in my entire life."
I went hunting with my father before, so I had become slightly skilled in tracking. Luckily, they did not cover up their tracks, most likely assuming no one would be crazy enough to follow them. They were mostly right. I reached their camp by dusk, and it seemed they had captured other farmers in the south western lands as well. Some of those people were my personal friends.
"Hey, quiet down in there!" one of the raiders yelled at the farmers. They had locked them up in a cage. Looking around from my vantage point from behind a rock, I saw there were actually only a few raiders. Five tops. Also, there was a crate full of shovels and hoes, meaning that they were likely planning to use the farmers in forced labor, In all likelihood, they would not be able to over power a group of physically strong farmers if not for their weapons.However, his shouting made my blood boil.
So in my youthful brashness, I ambushed him.
He was more than twice my size, so hitting him over the head was out of the question. Luckily, whether it was just myself being clever or natural instinct, I put my shovel under his foot and lifted, making the raider fall backwards.
"Hey! They're trying to get out!"
I had no time. As quickly as I could, I used my shovel to smash the lock. The farmers came rushing out, ready to fight as the other raiders began to advance from around the camp. It did not matter however, as the small group was no match for a larger group of farmers that were now armed with shovels and hoes. Unfortunately, my father was not among them.
"Yes. They had already shipped out a few of the farmers northward. I found this out when I collected a map from that camp while the raiders were busy with the fighting. I did not give up hope because of that map. So when I returned to my home, I packed a few provisions and took my shovel as means of my defence."
"So, that's how ya got your cutie mark?" Shovel Knight was glad AppleBloom made him chuckle. Recounting that part of his past was never an easy thing to do.
"You could say that, my friend. You see, a cutie mark for us is our names." AppleBloom gave a quizzical look at his words. "You see, the title of knight is earned through the recognition of one's greatest skills, and my skill, was shovelry." Shovel Knight smiled under his helmet.
"That's awesome!"
"Heh, I try." Shovel Knight chuckled.
"What happened after that?"
"Well, I followed the map. Hitting every raider camp I could find, as I got better with a shovel." Shovel Knight turned and looked at the rising sun. "I am sorry AppleBloom," he said turning back to the filly. "Time is of the essence, I should get back to work."
"I'll help!" she said, excited to work with knight. "I'll go get my shovel!" and she galloped off.
Shovel Knight admired her optimistic attitude, smiling warmly under his helmet. Going on such a quest, to find one's destiny and purpose in life. A noble and challenging quest indeed. Though on his quest he never found trace of his father, but he did end up gaining the skill he has today, becoming Shovel Knight.
He also met who would become his best friend, and close companion.
"Hold still darling." Rarity said as she continued to take Shield Knight's measurements. They were up so early so that Rarity could get started on her clothing. Shield Knight was used to waking up early, so it did not bother her.
What was currently on her mind however, was the encounter with that dream walker she had last night...
Shield Knight stood in place and looked around. She was in her armor now for some reason.
"Hello?" she began to move. Her surroundings were, unique, to say the least. There were stars around her, and she could swirling pools of light surrounding her in the distance. The path she was on gave off an angelic glow.
"Hello." a kind voice replied. Shield Knight turned around, and saw what she believed was a pony. Odd though, other than her deep sapphire coat, what really stood out was her ethereal mane and tail that appeared to give glimpses of the stars themselves. "Do not be afraid. This is only a dream."
"I figured as much," Shield Knight said coming closer to the pony. As she approached, her surrounding transformed from that of the dream-like landscape, to a white room with soft sunlight cascading down from the large window on the left side. A pastel colored table and chairs appeared in the middle.
"Please, have a seat." the pony said before taking a seat herself. Shield Knight sat down, looking to her side to the window, seeing the golden sun in the horizon. "I inferred that perhaps this would be a nicer setting for us to talk." Shield Knight looked forward to the pony. "My name is Luna." Luna, that name sounded familiar.
"As in, one of the princesses of Equestria?" Shield Knight asked curiously.
"Yes, but please, you may just call us Luna."
Shield Knight still looked at Luna curiously. "So, you posses the ability to roam freely into dreams?"
"Yes, I roam the realm of sleep giving help to those who need it." Luna said calmly. Wait, help? What would could Shield Knight possibly need help with in her dreams of all places? "Thou look puzzled. In truth, I only came here to seek audience with you."
"With me? Why?"
"You see..." Luna paused, looking down. "I was once a being known as Nightmare Moon, as you may know." Indeed, Shield Knight recalled what she had been told about Nightmare Moon. It was how the element bearers came together, in order to stop her from plunging the world into an eternal night.
"I am aware of your story Luna."
"True, but not all if it." Luna continued, "I allowed myself to be torn apart by jealousy, and that jealousy left a hole that allowed a dark magic to posses me."
"Perhaps it would be better if we were to show you."
The space around Shield Knight began to change once again. A mundane yet peaceful room gave way for a regal and illustrious space. It was not hard to tell that she was now in a place of royalty.
"Please, look forward." Luna's voice rang in her ears.
Shield Knight looked on, now seeing one again atop where two thrones flagged her sides.
"Did you really expect me to sit idly by while they all basked in your precious light?! There can be only one princess in Equestria, and that princess, shall be me!" A portion of the wall behind Luna collapsed, giving a clear view as the sun was eclipsed by the moon.
Suddenly, memories began rushing back to Shield Knight. Vague, but frightening. She heard screams, pleas, and sadistic laughter. The thoughts of these memories swirled around in her mind, spreading and growing with intense fury like a wild fire.She gasped for air, her breathing becoming heavier along with her body.
The once regal space that surrounded her now had now become ruined. Rubble lay everywhere as chaotic destruction consumed the hall.
"Luna, I will not fight you! You must lower the moon. It is your duty!"
Shield Knight looked to see a taller, pastel pony walking up beside her. The ethereal mane she donned displayed that of cool colors, but at the same time gave off a visual radiant of warmth. However, she appeared to hold dishonest scowl across her face. At the same time, Luna's appearance had changed drastically. With almost no remnants of her former self to be seen.
"Luna? I am NIGHTMARE MOON!"
At those words Shield Knight's whole world spun out of control. The next thing she knew, she once again was in the room from before. Now Shield Knight understood why Luna was here.
"The Enchantress..."
"Precisely. For thou see, we still struggle with those dark forces everyday."
"What?"
"Tis true," Luna said sadly. "There is still a part of us that still bears that same jealousy each and every single night. For thou see, darkness that is sealed away, only gives it room to become stronger."
"But then, does that mean..."
"Please, cease thy worrying, for now," Luna said trying to calm down Shield Knight. "We make it our duty to prevent others from traveling the same path that we did."
"Then what does this have to do with the Enchantress?"
"Both thou and this, Shovel Knight, confronted the nature of this darkness together, correct?"
"Indeed," she said. "We barely escaped with our lives," it was still honestly hard to think about for Shield Knight. The dark magic within the amulet nearly killed Shovel Knight, and her as well. Infact, if Black Knight had not stepped in when he did, neither of them might be alive. When the dark magic was about to strike her, she held it back with all her might with her shield. She managed to deflect it back and destroy the dark spawn, with the resulting blast wave taking the tower with it. It nearly took her as well.
Nearly...
"True, while thou defeated the dark magic the possessed thee, we ask you, to think about what gave it form."
"What do you mean?" Shield Knight asked worryingly. However, the space around her began to fade.
"We are deeply sorry, but our time here is up at the moment. Do not worry though, we shall speak to thee again soon."
Shield Knight had no choice but to witness Luna as she faded into non-existent air. What could she have possibly meant? To think about what gave the Enchantress form? What does that truly mean? On top of that, she kept referring to herself and one other person. Was someone else there, watching, or could she have meant-
Shield Knight snapped out of her deep thought, attempting to find meaning in what Luna had asked her to do. It seems she was in such thoughts for so long, that Rarity had already completed her clothing. Looking at the clock in the room, she saw that it had been about an hour.
"Here you go darling." Shield Knight looked forward and saw as the cloths were floated to her hands. "You can go get changed now dear. I personally can't wait to see how you look." Shield Knight smiled and thanked her before going into the next room to get changed. A few minutes later, Shield Knight came back in. "Oh my! You look fantastic!" Rarity exclaimed. Looking to the mirror to her right, Shield Knight saw her new look. A red short-sleeved shirt with some light sequence at the end of the sleeves. Along with some black pants with a magenta flower pattern design along the pant-legs. On top of that, it all fitted comfortably. How she managed to do such on such short notice was beyond her. However-
To be honest, she was not sure what to make of it.
Honestly, she had very few clothing wares in her possession at home. Mostly because she did not really require such things as armor was quite certainly required when adventuring. However, if she was to compare this to what she usually wore as a child-
This was the most amazing thing she's ever worn in her life.
Bringing back such memories caused her to instinctively hug the mare in appreciation. Rarity was surprised, but gladly accepted the small but sudden affection by hugging back. Realizing though what she had done, Shield Knight gently pulled away.
"My apologies, that was a bit intrusive of me." Shield Knight said, blushing lightly from embarrassment.
"Not a problem darling," Rarity giggled. Rarity then paused and contemplated for moment before speaking once again. "Y'know what? I believe what you truly need darling, is a day at the spa." The word 'spa' puzzled Shield Knight.
"Spa? What pray-tell would that be?" she asked. Rarity luckily was able to prevent herself from fainting, and or having a freak out reaction, from hearing that Shield Knight had never heard of a spa.
Forget the dress orders. Forget the accessories. Forget making breakfast!...Okay, well breakfast was still necessary. However! The mere FACT that Shield Knight had never heard of spa was absolutely inconceivable! This a emergency that had to be dealt with, NOW! Luckily convincing Shield Knight to go with the idea of checking out the spa went rather swimmingly, she unfortunately was unable to convince her to leave the shield at the boutique. 'I would not be Shield Knight without it' she says.
Oh well, at least the color matches with the outfit.
"Yesterday, two strange beings claiming to be from another world appeared in Sweet Apple Acres. One male, one female, both bipedal like Spike, and both in suits of armor. After making contact with them-"
Spike snickered.
"And what exactly is so funny?"
"Heh-heh, sorry Twilight, but you sound just like one of those 'big grumpy generals' from the Space Invaders comics."
Twilight just rolled her eyes and continued to speak as Spike wrote down the letter.
"After making contact with them, they both posses the title of knights in their world. While they seem friendly, I still have some concerns that they're aligned with some other force from their world, though they claim to be only explorers."
The male knight was armed with a shovel, kinda ironic considering his name is Shovel Knight. While the female knight had a shield, her name being Shield Knight. Right now, Shovel Knight is staying at Sweet Apple Acres while Shield Knight is staying at the Carousel Boutique."
"Like I said, they both seem friendly, but we've decided to keep them separated until we know what to do with them."
"Please write back as soon as you can."
"Your friend and fellow princess~"
"Twilight." she huffed as she finished her sentence. "Alright Spike, go ahead and send it."
"Alright," he huffed his green mystic flame and off the letter went. "Hey Twilight?"
"Yeah Spike?"
"Are you, y'know, gonna be okay? I mean, you seem a little worked up about all this."
"I know Spike, but we really have to take extra precaution. We really don't anything about who these supposed 'knights' are or what their motive for coming to Equestria is."
"But I thought you said they were nice."
"Seemed nice Spike. We don't know anything about them. They could just be lying and putting up a show. They could changelings, demons from Tartarus, anything! I just-" a cup and a pitcher of iced tea was suddenly thrust up to her vision.
"Figured you'd need this."
"T-Thanks Spike." she sighed as she took the pitcher with her magic and poured herself a cup.
"Twilight, that's really not all that's bothering you, is there?" Twilight took as sip of the tea, soothing some of the tension that had built up in her throat.
"Spike I just don't want anything bad to happen, okay? It's my duty as a princess of Equestria, and... "
"And, what?"
"Nothing, nevermind." she poured herself some more iced tea. "Could you please go unpack some of the books we got from the Canterlot library for me Spike? We still need to sort them all out in alphabetical order."
"You got it Twilight!" her eager young assistant dashed off. Twilight smiled a little at his enthusiasm, only to remember what that and truly was.
"And I don't want to risk losing my friends or my home again." she took another sip of the iced tea.
It did not take long for Shovel Knight to finish his work with AppleBloom. Even if it was really only a little help, he appreciated it all the same. Before they knew it, the golden light of the sun was right over their heads.
"It appears the rumors are true. Time does move much faster with hard work."
"Ah think ya mean time flies when you're havin' fun," she trotted up alongside him.
"Oh, I already knew that. Why do you believe I am an adventurer!" the two shared a chuckle as they began the walk back to the barn to get cleaned up. "However, what I said before rings true. Hard work does make time fly much faster. It was a fellow knight that taught me that, among many other things."
"Really? Who's that?"
"His name is Polar Knight, but that is a story for another time."
"Aw c'mon! Now ya got me curious!" she bumped his armored shin playfully.
"Alright, Alright. I will tell you after we have cleaned ourselves up."
"But after we get cleaned up, ah gotta go to a Cutie Mark Crusaders mettin'" Just then, a lightbulb went off in AppleBloom's head. "Hey, how about ya come with me to the meetin'?!"
"If you insist, who am I to decline aid to help in your quest."
"Yay!"
After the duo had returned to the barn and gotten themselves cleaned up, AppleBloom asked her elder sister if Shovel Knight could come with her.
"Well..."
"Ah c'mon AppleJack, please!"
"Alright, Alright, but Big Mac's gonna help ya get there, alright?"
"That's fine! Let's go Mr.Knight!" AppleBloom said as she galloped out the door.
"Right behind you!"
"Now hold on a minute there, 'Mr.Knight'."
"Hm?"
"Now, ah don't know what yer tryin' to pull, but let me make one thing clear to ya. Ah don't trust you, and especially not with any kin of mine."
"I understand your concern Ms.AppleJack, but-"
"Hold it! Jus' listen. Ah'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt, but try anything funny and you better start beggin' Celestia for mercy when ah'm done with. Am ah clear?"
"But I-"
"AM. I. CLEAR?!" Applejack's face was pretty much pressed up against Shovel Knight's helmet at this point.
"Y-Yes."
"Good. Better keep it that way."
"Are ya'll comin' or not?!" AppleBloom shouted from outside.
"Coming!" Shovel Knight went outside while Big Mac trotted to Applejack's side.
"Make sure she stays safe."
"Eeyup." Big Mac trotted outside, closing the door behind him. Applejack just sighed in frustration.
"Now what's got ya all worked up sugarcube?" Granny Smith trotted in slowly from the kitchen.
"Granny, how can ya just trust him like that. Ah mean, those knights just plum show up outta nowhere and we're just supposed to 'assume' that they're our friends?"
"Aw c'mon know Applejack, AppleBloom is a strong filly, she can take care of her-"
"That's not what I mean Granny. How do we know we can even trust em'. That Shovel Knight pinned me down faster than a hammer to a nail and that was jus' because he thought we hurt his friend. I can understand AppleBloom and her filly curiosity but why you Gran- "
"Now listen here sugarcube, yer concerns ain't outta place at all. Ah realize that they may be 'aliens' or some sort of baloney like that, but my intuition tells me that they're some real nice folk. After all, it's that same intuition is how ah met yer grandpappy, and judging by these beautiful grandchildren of mine, it hasn't steered me wrong yet!"
"Thanks Granny," the two shared a hug and Granny Smith went upstairs for a nap. However, Applejack was still just as distraught as when she talked to her. "Ah'm sorry Granny, but ah just don't want these things to stick around..." She looked at the picture of her and her family on the shelf. "Ah need to see Twilight."
The journey to the Crusader's base, or rather 'club house' as they called it, did not take long as it was practically already in Sweet Apple Acres itself.
"C'mon in!" AppleBloom said, holding the door open, allowing Shovel Knight entry, but stopping her brother.
"Sorry, official Cutie Mark Crusader business, can ya just wait out here Big Mac?"
"Eeyup." with that she closed the door, soon followed by Big Mac pressing his ear up against the door.
"Shovel Knight, allow me to introduce you to-"
"Hey, you gotta be that other knight guy right?"
"You know of me already?" Shovel Knight smiled, leaning down to the other filly's level.
"Yeah, your friend is staying at my sister's boutique." she squeaked.
"Shovel Knight, this mah friend and fellow member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Sweetie Belle."
"It is my pleasure to meet you."
"And our third member Scoot-" Scootaloo's mouth just stood agape, eyes wide. "Uh, you alright Scootaloo?"
"You look awesome!" Scootaloo said buzzing her wings.
"Heh, I should say the same to you as well. You are the first pegasus I have ever met."
"R-Really?" she looked up, twinkly eyed. It was a bit of strange feeling for Shovel Knight. He never really had such appreciation merely because he... what was the word? 'Looked cool?' Strange, he thought it looked rather warm inside his armor.
"Is your name actually Shovel Knight?"
"What's your favorite color?"
"Is that armor heavy?"
"Do you dig as a hobby or for sport?"
"Girls!" AppleBloom shouted.
"Eh, sorry." Sweetie Belle apologized.
"Seriously though, is digging a sport thing where you come from?"
After a short bombardment of questions from the three they all sat down and the crusaders went over some of their past excursion plans.
"We've tried roller bladin', candy makin'-"
"Weight lifting, time lording-"
"Oh and this place is also home to the Rainbow Dash Fan Club!"
"Young friends, I must be honest with you. I have no idea what any of those things are."
"Ah, well, that don't matter. How about ya tell us about the Polar Knight guy ya mentioned earlier."
"Hm? Ah yes, he was old friend. He too followed the code of Shovelry."
"Shovelry?" the trio asked.
"Yes, Shovelry. It is a code of conduct as old as the land. A shovel is a tool meant not just to strike the earth, but to protect those closest to you. To dig and plant seeds to grow food for thy family. To dig into those who would harm your friends. To dig into the earth and gain treasure to be shared with those closest to you. THAT is shovelry."
SweetieBelle blew her nose into a tissue. "That was beautiful."
"A bit sappy but still pretty cool."
"What about the Polar Knight guy? He didn't follow the code?"
"I'm afraid not. He raised his Shovel in the name of evil. I'm not sure what has become of him after my last journey."
"Yer last journey?"
"Yes, and quite the journey it was."
"That sounds pretty awesome too."
"Yeah can you tell us about it?"
"Well..."
"Please!" they all looked at him with big, wide eyes. Shovel Knight chuckled.
"Alright, Alright, let me start from the beginning..."
Black Knight sat in train car quietly, patiently waiting until he arrived at his destination. To be honest, it was quiet the relief to see something going along rather smoothly for once. With this peace also came time for thought.
"Why would he be here?" Black Knight thought aloud, his voice accompanying the humble roar of the train's movement. "It doesn't matter though, if he is here then things may actually go along much more swiftly. Time is of the essence."
"He? Would you happen to mean little ol' me?" A playful voice called out.
"Shite."
"Oh come now, if time truly is of the essence then how about a new clock?" A small coo-coo clock suddenly appeared next to Black Knight. With the hands on the clock striking noon, a small version the god of chaos himself popped out.
"Enough games. Reveal yourself."
"I don't know how anyone could refuse such a handsome clock such as this, but it's your call." In the clock's place suddenly appeared Discord.
"Why are you here?"
"Straight to the point, are we? Ah, you knight types are no fun at all." Discord continued to spill his words in a playful manner off his tongue.
Black Knight is not amused.
"If this is about the contract then there is no need for discussion. You lend me your power, and I get the job done. That is our arrangement."
With a snap of his lion paw, and a flash of light Discord now suddenly had a business suit a monocle.
"Why yes my good sir that was indeed our arrangement." Discord said sitting down, and taking a sip out of the cup of tea he had just spawned. Black Knight withheld his comments on the odd chimera's foolish behavior.
"If that much is clear to you then as I said before, what are you doing here?"
"Well, a few minor complications have come up."
Black Knight gritted his teeth.
"Those complications being?"
"It appears you were right about that nasty spirit being somewhere. All the critters in the Everfree forest are getting quite testy. They wouldn't even offer me a nice muffin while I was there!"
Black Knight did not know, nor did he care, whether or not the native creatures of this world actually distributed baked goods.
"Regardless of whatever you had just said, it would not be the first a disturbance in the wildlife has occurred because of he-... it."
"Is that why you had your blue brother summoned along with your other little friend."
Black Knight's face-palm resulted in a clank lightly echoing throughout the train car.
"Shovel Knight and I are not brothers, and the only reason I summoned him here is as a backup plan."
"My my, you truly are uptight. Perhaps it's that stuffy armor of yours." Discord prepared to snap his fingers before he felt the tip of shovel barely touching his throat. "Alright, alright I get the hint. I'll leave to your wonderful science." With a flash of light, Discord disappeared.
"Tch... Why must he be such an annoyance?" He sighed in frustration. "It matters not, so long as everything goes according to plan."
Much to Black Knight's relief, only silence proceeded the rest of the train ride.
"And so here I am now." Shovel Knight told the Crusaders.
"Whoa... so, Shield Knight was possessed the whole time?" Scootaloo asked with wide eyes.
"That is indeed correct."
"Epic plot twist..."
"That must have been really tough for ya." AppleBloom's ears flattened slightly against her head.
"It was." He nodded. "But in the end we were once again reunited, and I am forever grateful to the gods we are together again."
"Are you gonna write a book about your adventures?"
"Hmm... perhaps when I am an elder, Sweetie Belle."
"But aren't you already a-" Scootaloo began to say but was abruptly stopped by AppleBloom's hoof on her mouth.
"Anyhow," AppleBloom began, " I think after hearin' all of Shovel Knight's stories we should try to get our cutie marks by bein' knights!"
"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle cheered in agreement.
"I second that." Scootaloo proclaimed as soon as AppleBloom put her hoof down.
"You wish to become knights you say?" Shovel Knight inquired. "It is fair to warn you all that becoming a knight is no easy task. It requires years of training, dedication, and above all else, a true passion for knighthood."
"That sounds like a challenge." Scotaloo smirked slightly.
"This is not a challenge of any sort." He quickly affirmed. "If you lack the true passion for chivalry then your efforts will be for naught."
"What if we become knights like you? Y'know, with a shovel?" SweetieBelle pondered.
Shovel Knight sighed internally. 'They are far too young to realize the true meaning of being a knight. Then again... perhaps I could be the one to teach them. If anything, they appear to be very eager learners.' He looked down at the crusader's large, pleading eyes. "Very well. I shall train you three to become knights whom abide by the code of shovelry!" He proclaimed. The crusaders cheered in joy. "However!" Shovel Knight brought silence to their cheering. "You may not cease your basic training until it is complete. Understood?"
"Totally!" All three said unison.
"Hmm... very well. We shall begin immediately." At those words the crusaders once again cheered. Big Mac, on the other hoof, was more terrified than joyful as continued to listen in, and he thought about going to tell AppleJack but decided it would probably be a better idea to stay with them to make sure they would be safe.
If anything was certain at his point it was that this would certainly be... interesting.
You can feel it can't you? That power flowing from your fingertips. You want it, no, need it. Desperately.
Shield Knight looked down at her fingers. Indeed from the tips of her fingers a violet and ebony smoke was being emitted.
Do you feel that power? It can all be yours. Just-
"No! Leave me alone! I am not the enchantress! This power you speak of... is nothing but a wretched parasite!"
At those words, Shield Knight had awoken with a small gasp. What happened? Where was she? She wanted to open her eyes but she felt something soft on top of them. Much to her relief her hands were unrestrained and she gently lifted one of the soft objects from her eye.
It was a cucumber slice.
Then she remembered where she was. As Rarity had told her: the building they were in they were in was known as a spa. It appeared that Rarity's tales of the spa's atmosphere of relaxation were indeed true, and that she must have simply fallen into a small slumber and had that awful nightmare.
Or at the very least, she hoped it was just a nightmare.
