> Dragon Age: Fading Out
>  by The Joeker
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'll admit, I am unsure as of where to start this story…

I suppose it could begin at the start of the 5th Blight, where I was living in Highever Castle with my family, the Couslands.

Before our long-time ally, Arl Howe, murdered them in cold blood, I escaped the castles destruction and slaughter, with Duncan, the Warden-Commander of Ferelden, and I was to join the Wardens in return for my life, my parents staying behind to buy us time, we travelled to Ostagar, on the edge of the Korcari Wilds, where we were to make our stand against the Darkspawn horde... it didn't go according to plan…

I met the king, who promised me he would bring Arl Howe to justice when we won at Ostagar, I talked with the great General Loghain Mac Tir, the Hero of River Dane, I did various things around the camp, bought some Dragonbone armor and a Dragonbone Greatsword, I met Alistair, a fellow Grey Warden and who would be my travelling companion, we met the other 2 recruits, Jory and Daveth, before being told by Duncan to get three vials of Darkspawn blood, we also reclaimed some treaties of the Wardens, and it was then I met the love of my life, Morrigan, she gave us the treaties and introduced us to her mother.

We got back, and the Joining began, we drank the Darkspawn blood.

Daveth did so willingly and died, as not all bodies can take the Taint.

Jory refused because of the possible death and Duncan killed him.

So… for a start, I was the only one who survived the Joining Ritual, I was paired with Alistair to light a beacon to tell Teryn Loghain to charge and assist the kings troops, Darkspawn intercepted us and we kicked their ass, we lit the beacon and I killed an ogre.

Then a group of Darkspawn attacked us, and damn near killed me.

When I awoke in the Wilds in Morrigan and Flemeth's hut I found that Loghain had not responded to the beacon and left Cailan, the Wardens and Duncan to die, which they did.

I found Alistair and my Mabari, Barkspawn alive and well, Alistair was greatly saddened over Duncan and Cailan's death, Flemeth reminded us of the treaties we still possessed, she then gave us Morrigan to help us in our quest.

Our first stop was Soldiers Peak, Levi Dryden, part of the Drydens who were part of the Wardens when they rebelled against a tyrant some hundred years ago, both the Wardens and the Drydens were exiled and the Peak was lost, we entered, closed the veil, killed some demons, killed Sophia Drydens possessed corpse, allowed Avernus to continue his research without limitations and gained some new powers, then I had a Starmetal greatsword called Starfang made.

The next stop was the Circle, where I saved the Mages from demons.

Then I assisted the Dalish with their werewolf problem, I free the werewolves and gained the Dalish as allies.

Then he sent an assassin after me, Zevran, who I recruited.

Then we travelled to Redcliffe, where I assisted them against undead, I got a dwarf to help, a tavern owner and an elf working for Loghain, I helped them prepare and fight.

Then we entered the castle, finding the Arl's son, Connor, possessed, I went to the Circle and got help, Jowan, a mage who poisoned Arl Eamon and wanted to help was sent in, he saved Connor and everyone survived, we were sent to find the urn of Sacred Ashes.

First we went to Orzammar and helped Prince Bhelen claim the throne, I found Branka, a Paragon, and helped her reclaim the Dwarves most prized possession, the Anvil of the Void, she created golems to help me in the Blight.

We then claimed the Urn of sacred Ashes, after passing some trials and Brother Genitivi helped us and rewarded us.

We healed Arl Eamon and gave Jowan to the Circle, Eamon called the Landsmeet, a meeting of every noble family in Ferelden.

First we met Loghain, who was with Arl Howe, I demanded blood rights and he waved me off.

Then I saved Queen Anora from her father who locked her up, I killed Howe and surrendered to Ser Cauthrien, Loghain's lackey, me and Alistair broke out after I knocked the guard out and disguised ourselves as guards and escaped.

We got back to Eamon and we talked to the queen.

I let her now we'd side with her, and I would be Prince-consort of Ferelden, under our rule, Ferelden would unite, me the strategist, and Anora the politician.

I freed the Alienage from slavers Loghain was using.

Then we called the Landsmeet, they decided our cause was more just than Loghain's and we met in a duel, I kicked his ass.

Then I made him a Grey Warden, Alistair left us after hearing that and I convinced Anora to not execute him.

Loghain survived and Anora was thankful.

We made camp outside the city to restock and I got to know Loghain and Anora, Loghain wasn't a bad guy, just misguided, he truly believed he was defending his country, and I saw his reasoning.

We met the Archdemon after I had a child with Morrigan, whose mother I killed to protect her.

I struck the killing blow after Riordan, a Grey Warden Howe locked up was killed after falling from the Archdemon after trying to jump on it's back while flying and kill it, he clipped it's wings and it fell.

The Archdemon exploded, almost killing me, but because of Morrigan, I survived.

I was met with a hero's praise and my new fiancée.

6 months after, I was sent to Amaranthine to se to the new home of the Wardens, to find it besieged, we eliminated the Darkspawn, including a talking Darkspawn! We saved the Seneschal of the Keep, Varel

I let Nathanial Howe go with his families things, the Howe's weren't all to blame just Rendon.

I stopped smugglers in Amaranthine.

I met Justice possessing a dead Warden, Kristoff.

I cleared the Deep Roads beneath the keep and rebuilt the walls and helped a dwarf with his explosives and Master Wade with Silverite armor.

I cleared Kal'Hirol

Then I put down a rebellion after giving my soldiers to the farmlands to protect the peasants, I put it down with words, not action.

I quelled a rebellion intended to eliminate me.

Then I cleared the Wending Wood, helping an elf.

I met the Architect, a leader of 'peaceful' Darkspawn.

I escaped his trap and rallied my men for war, then I found out Amaranthine had been attacked, I saved her and the Keep survived.

I spared the Architect and killed the Mother.

Then I cleared Amgarrak of a… monster…

And I found Morrigan, and let her go through an eluvian as long as she kept in touch.

Now, my story begins anew...
> Bandit Attack.
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As I travelled the country of Ferelden, I heard the Inquisition, a new order of peacekeepers, who were fighting the slew of demons that poured into the world following the breach, a giant green hole in the sky that shits out demons as if it just met it's first Darkspawn, were trying to restore peace.

I, meanwhile have been trying to cure the Calling, the call the Wardens get after being alive for 30+ years, they go to the Deep Roads, seek out Darkspawn and fight to the death.

I don't plan to go that way.

My life is so fucked.

The only light in my life were my old travelling companions, Sten, Leliana, Shale, Wynne, Zevran, Barkspawn, Alistair, Loghain, Morrigan and Oghren.

I still travel with Barkspawn and see Morrigan and Loghain's son, Kieran from time to time, as Morrigan and I are good friends, in fact I helped her get a position at the Orlesian court... Discreetly of course.

I write to Leliana, I have got into contact with Sten and travelled with Zevran and Oghren for a time, we all still keep in touch.

Loghain is now my step-dad ironically, so I talk to him and we trade advice, Wynne… I think she passed away, I will need to contact Irving if he yet lives and check…

Shale is in Tevinter, and I have been in contact with her, she says she misses 'it' and sometimes corrects herself by saying 'you', Anders was in Kirkwall and kicked off the mage rebellion, Nathaniel is still a loyal Grey Warden. Sigrun… I have no clue, Valena, again, no clue, Justice possessed Anders when I left, with permission I believe, and poor Ser Pounce-a-Lot was given away to Anders' friend in Amaranthine.

My brother Fergus is now Teyrn of Highever and I, still technically am Prince-consort of Ferelden, but everyone refers to me as the king, but I left to find Morrigan, which I did some time ago.

Now as I said I am trying to cure the Calling, I wish to be around as long as I can, with Loghain & Anora, with my friends as well, I don't really love Anora, but for Ferelden to be as united as possible I would do anything.

Well… I was…

Before the strangest thing ever happened to me…





It started as any other day.

Any other day for me is bandits, or Darkspawn, those too, but not today.

I unsheathed my Greatsword, Solitude, made out of Volcanic Aurum, it does +50 damage to Darkspawn and demons and undead, it weakens them, gives me more strength and constitution, ignores enemy armor, gives me spell resistance and does +11 electricity damage.

I wore the armor of the Sentinel, fit for a Warden-Commander, which gave me extra strength and constitution(If you have the Wardens Keep DLC & Awakenings it is the Warden-Commander armor) which gives me more spell resistence, constitution and willpower plus the Sentinel helmet which gives more physical resistance and immunity to flanking and criticals, my gauntlets give me more strength and armor and my boots give me a chance to avoid attacks, both missile and physical.

I was close to finding a cure, I knew it!

I met the bandit's head on, force with force.

I blocked a sword coming my way and while the bandits arms were up I held his sword arm with one hand swung my sword into his side and kicked him away, sending blood spilling all over me.

I spun around and impaled a bandit running for me, he ran into the full length of the blade, I put my hand on his shoulder and yanked my blade from his corpse as he fell.

Another bandit charged me and I ducked his swing, the price for that was a knee to the helmet, dazing me, he booted my chest and sent me down, as he was about to strike I whistled shrilly.

"Wha' were that?" he asked, obviously uneducated from his speech.

"Your doom." I replied as my hound leapt atop him from the forest we were on the outskirts of and tore him asunder.

As another bandit charged my hound and I was still prone, I held my sword out and he tripped up, breaking his neck in the fall, my hound charged toward some archers, avoiding the rain of arrows and taking some head on with the kaddis I gave him, which gave him physical resistance and the collar gave him armor, attack and a chance to avoid missile attacks.

As I went to get up the bandit leader put his foot on my back and pressed me back down and put a sword to me.

"Not so fast." He said.

"Wait! I have magic!" I warned.

"What? I ain't believin' ya." He said.

"No, really! 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2… 1." I stopped as he raised an eyebrow and smiled.

"I told-" he stopped as he choked on his words, held his throat and fell backwards.

He had developed the Blight, rapidly.

I had concentrated the Blighted blood in me on a pin to poison him, another benefit from my research and the power I have developed in my blood, and deliveries from Avernus help me unlock more.

He choked and died from the Blight seconds later.

I got a small knife out and threw it to my left and it hit a Rogue in stealth between the eyes.

I saw my dog had racked up a body count himself.

(Woof woof)

"Yep, idiots, the Blight is effective when weaponised."

(Woof woof!) 

He barked at me and jumped from the hill the rogues were on.

"Oh yeah? You are a deadly weapon, but I didn't have to weaponise you." I said.

(Growls)

"Ok, point taken boy." I said and petted him.

We set camp up and I put a fire on and got some canned soup out, beef broth for me, and a hunk of mutton for Barkspawn.

I set my helmet down beside a log and sat down on the log to eat and enjoy the moonlight.
> The Fade?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

-1 week later, the Frostback Mountains-

We heated our meals and ate them in the moonlight.

I pulled out a relic from my bag that may just be the key to curing the Calling.

I rolled it in my hand a little, it was a dull, dark green orb and not very promising, and yet, my latest lead on the cure.

"I wonder if this lead was worth it…" I said as I set my unfinished bowl down a second and placed the orb next to me on my log and finished my soup, I had to crawl through a dungeon full of cobwebs, giant spiders and dragons to get this bloody thing.

I went over to the small pool near my camp and washed the bowl and splashed my face and drank some water and Barkspawn did the same.

Knowing my luck it would conjure up a wish-granting Fade Spirit that made me do menial tasks in exchange for three wishes, after which he'll betray me or the wishes will be cursed.

Maker's Breath...

I sat back down and messed with the orb some more, I sighed and got my knife out, it's always blood, why never spit? Or a lock of hair?

I took my gauntlet off and cut my hand and bled on the orb, as I replaced the gauntlet, it started glowing and Barkspawn sat beside me, cocking his head at the orb.

That's when I fell…

Well, that's what it felt like, I saw the Fade, the fall didn't hurt so I must be in the Fade, I landed in… hmm, I need to look for the Black City… maybe I can find out if I've been here before...

I saw Barkspawn panting next to me, looking at me for direction, I looked up and… nothing…

There was no Black City, just a ceiling!

Usually if you concentrate hard enough you can see it even through walls.

Unless…

I was in the Black City!

There were no floating islands... usually you can see them through the ceilings as well if you concentrate but... nothing...

I looked around, and it… was a long corridor… 

Unimpressive for the Makers old home, but then again, magic…

Being an Andrastian, this was almost an honor, almost, considering I'm not the first here and it has been corrupted.

Barkspawn and I walked the corridor, and it was dripping with Blight.

We walked for… well, time has no meaning in the Fade, so… I don't know.

Eventually we came across a door, a black door, me and Barkspawn looked at each other uneasily…

What was behind this door?

Well! One way to find out! Nothing ventured, nothing gained! but again, knowing my luck it was a room full of Pride Demons…

I pushed it slightly and it cracked open.

I could see a bright light behind it…

I pushed the door the rest of the way.

I… I… holy Maker's soiled underpants…

The… the Golden City!

It was beautiful… there were clouds you could walk on, no demons or threat to be seen… and light… so much light, and a constant feeling of serenity.

I walked with Barkspawn, who was equally in awe, no demons had tried to kill my face, so I must be safe, but I kept my guard up, in war, death, in peace, vigilance, in death, sacrifice.

I repeated this over and over again, reminding myself I was never safe-

"Please Warden-Commander Regnier, and fair Ser Barksby Spawlum Cousland you are safe here, enter my home, you are most welcome." Came a soothing yet stern voice, like First Enchanter Irving but stronger, more old, if that was possible, how he knew Barkspawn's full name, I don't know.

Suddenly, door made of complete light opened in front of me, and there was a light ahead, had I died? And Barkspawn was also mesmerised, and weary.

We entered the light and… holy Maker... literally! it was a massive throne room made of clouds.

I saw a large human on the throne, sitting proudly, not as big as I'd have thought, slightly bigger than a Qunari.

"Greetings, Ser Regnier, hello Ser Barkspawn, my name is Markus Greater, or the Maker as you know me." Greeted the Maker.

"Ser Markus." I said and crossed my hand over my chest and bowed slightly.

Suddenly the Maker burst out laughing.

"HA HA HA HA HA, you have to be the first human I've brought that hasn't kissed the floor in front me, consciously or otherwise." He chuckled.

"What can I say? I'm a special human." I replied nervously, to be honest, the things I've seen and learned, hardly anything surprises me anymore, this made me nervous, but that's it.

"Indeed you are Ser Regnier, indeed you are." He replied and stepped off his throne, shrinking to my size.

"I have watched you for some time, 'why does no one say his name?' I wondered, but then I realised, you are special, your time in that world is over Warden, I have decided this, I need you and Ser Barkspawn for a job on my behalf." He said, put a hand around my shoulder and we walked.

"Of course, Maker." I said.

"Ser Barkspawn is also very special, have you wondered why he hasn't got the Blight, even after following you into Denerim? I have protected him, he and you are part of something greater."

"What is that?" I asked.

"A personal favour, for me, if you would." He said.

"Of course, but, a question, why are you human?" I asked.

"I am not, I am what you are, it creates a sense of trust between the person who comes, ones who die do come here, by the way." He affirmed.

"Wow…" I said.

"Yes, they are in paradise, your mother, father, nephew and sister-in-law are here, I will allow you to talk with them after you have heard my favour." explained the Maker

"Go ahead." I said.

"I need you to look after my dear nieces, for me and my brother and my sister-in-law, my nieces are… troubled"

"You have family?" I asked.

"I am still a person, an immortal, but still a person with feelings, and emotions, family and such, Andraste was my prophet, but I wasn't her husband, and she knew it, people just got the idea and spread it around, you were my prophet, but not to spread my word, you were my warrior, my voice through your sword, cleaving through evil, you made your own choices, yes, but you made the right ones, that are often hard to discern, but you have a good knack for it, will you now be my warrior willingly and knowingly?" he asked.

"I will, blessed are the peacekeepers, champions of the just right?" I replied.

"Hahaha! Correct, as a favour, I will also make you a Templar, they are my warriors, as they believe, but some are more oppressive on my Mages than I'd like." he said.

"I see, I am pro mage luckily." I said.

"You have enough mental focus, and you will need it for the trials ahead, you will be a Light Warrior a Templar of the elite order and of the most powerful and you need not use lyrium either, you will use My Light, or Maker's Light for you, you will be more resistant to magic now."

"Thank you Maker." I said.

"Please, it's Markus, Maker is a misinterpretation, but I decided to leave it at that, it sounded much better than 'Markus Greater, Creator of all!'" he laughed.

"True." I said with a chuckle.

"Now, step through these doors, and claim your destiny..." he said.
> Destiny Calls
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I looked through the doors in front of me only see just a bright light.

"What's through there?" I asked.

"Go in and find out, just because you know me now doesn't mean I'll tell you the answers to everything." he said with a smile, I nodded and walked through them.

Suddenly I was back in Highever Castle, the moment just before Arl Howe's men rushed through, the moment that changed and shaped my life forever.

"You now have a choice, you can stay here, and defend them as you wished to on that day and they might survive, think about it, you can choose not to stay with Duncan and live a completely different life, if you survive this, or you can do my favor, it is up to you Regnier." said Markus.

"So, would I remember? or would I live as if I'd not lived another life?" i asked.

"You would not remember, almost all those I've asked to do favors for me have chosen this first option." he said.

"I decline, we would've died anyway on that day, I couldn't stand leaving the world to die and being ignorant about it." I said.

"You are correct, Warden." said Markus.

Suddenly the world dissipated and it was replaced with the Landsmeet.

"Do you regret your choice? choosing Loghain over Alistair and marrying Anora?" asked Markus.

"No, I married her to unite Ferelden under two of the most powerful noble families, and Alistair?  I told him he always had a place with us, I saved a life, the life of a great, but misguided man, I don't regret it, it was Alistair's choice to leave, we were great friends, but I would rather save a life than keep a friend." I said.

Then at when I spared the Architect.

"Would you still spare him? knowing he started the Fifth Blight?" asked the Maker.

"Yes I would, I avoid taking sentient life life where possible, Darkspawn or no, it was possible he could stop the Blights by converting all the Darkspawn." I said, suddenly I was in Orzammar at the Chamber of the Assembly.

"So, would you support Bhelen still? knowing he would kill Harrowmont?" he asked.

"Yes, Bhelen was the best choice, I imagine he would've just plain attacked if I gave Harrowmont the crown, better one life than more than one." I said.

"Correct, he, and half the Deshyers would've attacked you."

"Good, I'm glad." I said.

"It is like Andraste's Guardian told me, you don't let past decisions trouble you, that is good, you have earned the right to see your parents again." said the Maker.

"Thank you." I said.

I entered another light door

Suddenly my father and mother were there in front of me, looking like they did the morning before they died.

"Son, I am very proud of you, you have made the right decisions, in my eyes, you are your own man and make your own decisions, but I support you." said my dad.

"And mine, we love so very much, you have become the man we have always wanted you to be, strong, confident and assertive, and humourous when needs be, you haven't let life get you down." said mother.

"Thank you both... so much..." I said.

"You should find happiness when you can, when we got here, Markus told us our death was necessary for you to save Thedas, and I've seen where you are now, King of Ferelden, Anora may have appointed you Prince-Consort, but would it surprise you to know there are revolutions being raised in your name to make you king officially?" asked my dad.

"No, it wouldn't honestly, nothing surprises me anymore, the things I've seen and done? the sky could start raining chocolate and I'd just shrug and keep walking." I said.

"I agree."

"And Barkspawn, we miss you so much." said my dad and he barked happily.

"But so you know my dear, we and the Maker, expected you to find love on that journey of yours but you didn't, which saddens us, we hoped you would find the girl for you but the Maker said it makes you more suitable for his favor, since you have nothing to lose by leaving." said my mother.

"Leaving?" I asked.

"My son, you deserve happiness, I know you really liked Iona, and you wanted to give her a better life, and that was taken from you, but you mustn't let that stop you from finding another." said my dad.

"Father, it isn't as simple as that... I left her daughter all alone, and on top of that and now I'm a Grey Warden, there is no life or future for me and a lover, in about 23 years, I'll be dead, maybe sooner, that is no life for someone, I'd rather not give them the illusion of that life." I said.

"Or maybe there hasn't been anyone worthy of you, we know you wouldn't think that, but the Maker thinks you haven't found the right girl yet, and we agree, it makes you more suitable." said my mother

"Suitable for what?" I asked.

"The task ahead." said my father.

"What task?!" I asked as they disappeared.

I saw the Maker stroll up and hold his hand out.

"Take my hand, and take on your new duty as Warden, Templar and Guardian of Equestria." he said.

"Ok, here goes nothing I suppose." as I took his hand and light engulfed me.
> Back in the game!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the Maker's light engulfed me he spoke to me.

"You must know this world is not Andrastian, and it has magic, but there are no demons, no Darkspawn, it is a paradise, there is a reason I am sending you however, and you will see what that is soon, you will be blind for a bit, your new abilities will improve your eyesight, but it will hurt at first and you will only see light, what you are after is dark, you will know it when you see it." he said and faded out.

Suddenly I was plunged into light, i saw a crystalline tree, it was clear as day, but the rest of it was blurry.

I walked outside blindly, but not after stumbling into a few cave walls.

"Ahh, goddamnit!" as I said that, there were a few strange things, one I sounded younger, and two my voice echoed as if I were in a large metal dome.

I looked at the ground and saw it was chequered, I saw flying fish come into my field of vision, which was very limited.

Suddenly in the distance, I saw, and felt a dark energy, I walked toward it, keeping my hands in front of me like a blind man, which I was technically.

I moved forward and heard a strong female voice.

"your playtime is over Discord!" 

"Oh I seriously doubt that, want to play pin th-" this strange being I could see stopped as I concentrated my energy into suppressing his magic, actually I think it was a draconequus, a legend, not as strong as a High Dragon, and it was classed as a Darkspawn but they were apparently wiped out.

Oh what's this? you should see yourselves! so stoic." he said, I saw a massive power being charged up.

The 2 beings shot a beam of rainbows at him and suddenly everything stopped, I could see, but I couldn't see the two beings, it was like the light had been transferred to them, I touched him with  new ability, Maker's Light, it completely shut down magic in an area, and if concentrated enough, could kill.

I concentrated on this dark being but something in the corne rof my yee distracted me, I turned, and instead of being dead, he was turned to stone.

Suddenly I was engulfed in light again, but I knew I was elsewhere, the ground was more... natural.

I saw the two beings jump in the sky and time froze again, whatever this power was, it made me very strong.

I saw one of the most darkest things I've ever seen in my life, only the Archdemon and The Mother could compare.

It was just so dark I could barely see it, suddenly I went Beserk and picked him up and smashed him into the ground, I saw I had cracked the ice beneath him and I picked him up and threw him in, my rage subsided and I calmed I went to talk to these beings, but the light engulfed me again.

Suddenly I was presented with a blue colour, nothing, just blue, but I felt pain, hurt, anger and regret and hate, I touched it and blurred memories rushed through me, no details, just outlines... I could make out happy memories, and the last memory was... betrayal... did I have to kill this being?

"There is always another way." I said to myself, I looked up to the moon for answers, the power coursing through me was not of a protective nature like before, but more reluctance, and again, hurt, suddenly I used the Makers Light to concentrate a teleportation spell fro. the being to the moon, and gave the spell enough power to send her there, she would need extra power to be sent back, unlikely to be found on the moon.

After it was done, I was back in the Maker's home.

"You saved the last one, why?" he asked.

"In the other two I felt the want to destroy, to conquer, to control, in her I felt... good, and the desire to do so, but it was shrouded by jealousy and rage, as wa I when I found out Fergus was next Teryn of Highever when I was 14, but I got over it, I hope she can to." I said.

"Good, because you saved one of my nieces, you will be called again, what will you do this time, I wonder?" he asked.

"I hope I do the right thing." I said.

"A statement we all wonder in our lives at least once, oh and once you're back down there you will be able to see, and you will be able to sue Spirit Warrior magic, Spirit Warriors use their connection to the Fade to levitate objects, some use it for trivial things, others use it to hurl objects at opponents in battle." he said.

"But I am no mage." I said.

"Mayhaps not, but you can use the Veil, no? your connection allows you to reach out and grasp items, the Fde is nonexistent down there, but you bring it with you which will allow you to still use Spirit Warrior abilities, you will be able to reach out your own Fade energy to grasp things, because the Veil is so strong around you, you can physically use it, that is to say, you can only levitate things, nothing else other than the abilities you already have." he explained.

"That makes sense." I said.

"Oh and, you will also need to learn to fly, the beings down there, some of them have wings, some have horns, the horns channel magic, because you are a Spirit Warrior, the Universal rules there will dictate you have magic, strength and flight, because you are so agile, strong and you Spirit Warrior abilities and your Templar ones."

Before I could reply I fell, and fell, until black overtook me...
> Out of the frying pan and straight into Veilfire...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As I awoke, I felt something warm on my face, I snapped my eyes open and sat up, I saw Barkspawn looking at me perplexedly, with his tongue hanging out after licking me, I wiped my face to feel a strange sensation cross it.

"What? have I got something on my face?" I asked him, I looked down and saw... I had gray hands?! gray hooves?! I also had some kind of necklace on… it had the Gray Wardens symbol on, the single lion(imagine it looks identical to Celestia's collar but with the Grey Warden symbol instead of the diamond).





Suddenly I spotted a note next to me.


Dear Regnier:





I have placed you in a world full of talking ponies, my brother and sister were the monarchs there before giving their lives to create the moon and sun, you may want to consult Barkspawn for some lessons on how to walk, to learn your new levitation simply imagine your hands stretching to reach the object and grasping it, the Fade doesn't exist here, but because the Veil is so strong around you and you are a Spirit Warrior and a Templar, you have more control over the Fade than most, you reach out your personal Fade energy to pick things up you can simply pick objects up or hurl them at your enemies, hurling things will tire you eventually however.

Now, you are a pony, a tall, horned and winged pony, they are usually royalty, and since you really are you can decide how to approach this, after reading, this note will turn into a royal correspondence between you and this Nation's rulers parents, oh and learn about their culture.

You'll get your form back soon... and watch out for Pinkie Pie...



Yours Sincerely



Markus Greater


"So, I'm a pony, stuck in a world full of ponies that talk, I can say, I'm not surprised." I said.

I looked over to Barkspawn who was looking at me.

"Well, let's go boy." I said and got up, I shakily took a few steps, I stepped into a forest before the ground gave way and I went arse over teakettle down a gorge.

"Ow, ah shit! ouch!" I yelled as I fell.

When I stopped I got up and stepped forward only to stumble into nettles.

"Andraste's sugar tits!" I yelled as I bounced on three legs as one was stinging.

I groaned and sucked it up, I walked forward but smacked face first into a tree.

"You know, I'd rather face my Calling right now, at least then I can die fighting rather than of broken limbs by smacking into trees." I mumbled as my face was still planted(no pun intended) in the tree trunk, I fell backwards on my ass after prying my face from the tree.

I got up and Barkspawn jumped and landed gracefully next to me.

I looked behind me and was shocked to see a tattoo on my ass, a Gray Warden symbol, if I was correct.





I started to walk and use Barkspawn for leverage at times, eventually I could walk normally as a pony, then run, then sprint before briskly walking with him to the smokestacks we saw, which pointed to civilisation, eventually we came across a cottage, we looked in the windows and found nobody, so we kept walking.

Eventually we came across a town, I looked out from a hill at the ponies, I looked out of place, a grey spot in the world as I looked at the realistic color chart before me, I took a breath and Barkspawn nudged me and woofed quietly as if to say 'go on!'

I walked down the hill and saw Barkspawn was about as big as the ponies while I towered over them.

I walked into town, slowly walking the streets, while the ponies looked on and stared at me and Barkspawn, I smiled slightly, nervously.

Some even bowed as I walked, I was used to bowing, but never so sincerely, I usually dealt with nobles who didn't care a bit for me, the ones who did were tired from rebuilding their Bannorn's, but these ponies meant their bows in devotion.

I was just walking along, seeing where I could fit in when I felt a slight rush of wind, which, to anyone else, would be nothing but a breeze, but my honed instincts screamed danger and my equally honed reflexes kicked in. I tucked my head beneath me and rolled backwards, luckily I managed to avoid whatever that was and land perfectly from the roll, to be honest this form made it easier, but it didn't bring the same amount of accomplishment because there was less effort, but it still felt good, I saw Barkspawn had moved as well.

"Whoo! haha! still got it!" I said and chuckled as I saw a golden flying carriage land where I had been a second ago.

"Guys! you almost hit a pony!" came a young male voice.

"Sorry! but we were flying high enough to not hit anypony, unless they were an... Alicorn..." I heard, two soldiers reached their heads around and suddenly their look turned to panic and they stood at attention in front of the carriage facing away from me.

"Your majesty! please forgive us!" said one.

"Guys, the Princess isn't-" started a female voice before poking her head around the carriage before widening her eyes.

I walked to the front of the carriage and stood in front of the terrified soldiers.

"At ease you don't need to worry, I'm on vacation, I'm just a citizen of this land currently." I smiled and they breathed sighs of relief.

I moved around to the side of the carriage and saw a female pony about to step down, obviously someone, or somepony as the guard said, important with the carriage and all.

I held my hoof out, not sure how this works, but somehow she managed to wrap her hoof around mine and step down.

"Thank you, and sorry for almost hitting you." she said, almost forcing a smile.

"No problem." I replied, I noticed my voice was more pronounced and youthful, as if I were younger, I mean I was only 26, but for a Warden that started at the age of 19, that is quite old.

"Anyway, maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about. Come on, Twilight, just try!" said a young... Dragon? a Dragonling? a talking Dragonling?

Holy shit... my life is insane.

Suddenly I looked and saw a pink pony approach.

"Um... Hello?" said the purple pony, suddenly the pink one gasped and whizzed away, how she did it I don't know, maybe that Pinkie Pie? The one Markus told me to watch out for.

"Well, that was interesting all right." said the purple one.

"We never introduced ourselves." I said to her.

"No, we didn't." she replied and began to walk away, her Dragon stopped her and said something to her which made her turn around.

"Ok, my name is Twilight Sparkle, this is my assistant Spike." she said.

"My name is..." OK, I couldn't use Regnier, their names are different... My symbol!

"Warden, Grey Warden, this is my dog, my Mabari, Barkspawn." I said and he licked Spike who giggled.

"Hey Barkspawn! I'm Spike." he said and played with Barkspawn.

"So what are you doing here? you don't seem to want to be here." I said.

"We are on official business for the Princess in Ponyville." said Twilight.

"What kind of business?" I asked.

"You're an Alicorn, and therefore royalty, you should know." said Twilight.

"I only knew the Princess's parents." I said.

"Ah, we're preparing for the Summer Sun Celebration, the day the Princess saved Equestria." she said.

"Err... what?" I asked.

"Where did you say you were from?" she asked… crap! gotta think...

"Tevinter Imponyum, it's a very faraway land." I said.

"And you are king there?" she asked.

"Yes." I replied.

"Well, your majesty, I am the Princess's student." she said.

"So, can I help you setup this Summer Sun Celebration? I've got nothing better to do." I said.

I saw Spike nod enthusiastically from my peripheral vision.

"Sure, why not?" she said with feigned enthusiasm.

"Look, if you don't want me to, just say so." I said.

"No, it's fine, I'm just having a... Bad day." she said, I nodded and Spike cheered as we walked away.

"So, is it your first time in Ponyville as well?" asked Spike.

"Yeah." I replied.

"Shouldn't you be ruling your kingdom?" asked Twilight.

"I haven't been to court for about... 5 years, I've been searching for something, though I'm beginning it suspect it is the realisation I'm just nothing more than an old fool trying to relive his glory days." I said with a chuckle.

"Old? you don't look that old..." said Spike.

Before I could reply, Twilight saved my ass.

"He's an Alicorn, Spike, they're immortal, remember?" she said, he 'ohhhh'd' and nodded.

"Yep." I said.

"Summer Sun Celebration official overseer's checklist. Number one, banquet preparations: Sweet Apple Acres."

"Yeehaw!" I heard a country voice call.

I looked over at an orange pony running at a tree and bucking it to make all the apples fall into baskets.

"That's how I train as well." I said, truthfully I actually punch trees to increase my pain threshold, I actually also punch walls… but I haven't got that far yet due to broken bones, my pain threshold is massively improved though.

"Let's get this over with... Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle-"

"Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight, a pleasure makin' your acquaintance, what about your stallion friend over there?" she asked and shook our hands- hooves.

"Warden, Grey Warden." I answered.

"I'm Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like making new friends!" she said, both Twilight and I looked apprehensive.

"Friends? Actually, I-" she started, her hoof was still shaking from the… hoofshake, I think?

"So, what can I do you for?" asked Applejack.

Spike laughed as he stopped her hoof from shaking, Twilight glared at him and he snickered.

"Well, I am in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. And you're in charge of the food?"

"We sure as sugar are! Would you care to sample some?"

"I am quite hungry…" I said as my stomach rumbled.

"Ok, as long as it doesn't take too long..." said Twilight

Suddenly she rang a bell.

"Soup's on, everypony!" she yelled.

Suddenly we were trampled by a group of ponies.

"Now, why don't I introduce y'all to the Apple family?" said Applejack as we suddenly awoke at a table.

"Thanks, but I really need to hurry-" started Twilight.

"Yeah, we're kinda in a-" I started.

"This here's Apple Fritter. Apple Bumpkin. Red Gala. Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp..."

She took a breath.

"Big McIntosh, Apple Bloom aaaannnndddd Granny Smith. Up'n'attem, Granny Smith, we got guests." She finished.

"Wha..? Soup's on? I'm up, here I come, ahm comin'..." said an old pony, reminds me of Nan…

"Why, I'd say you're already part of the family!" she said to us as an apple was stuffed into Twilight's mouth and I ate one.

"Okay, well, I can see the food situation is handled, so we'll be on our way." Said Twilight and we got ready.

"Aren't you gonna stay for brunch?" said a young goddamn cute pony… no dammnit! I'm a slayer of Archdemons! Bandits! I'm a scourge of demons and Darkspawn alike!

But she's so cute… like Ser-Pounce-a-lot…

"Sorry, but we have an awful lot to do..."

They all sighed in disappointment and Apple Bloom gave us puppy eyes…

"...fine." relented Twilight.

They all cheered and I had the most apple I've ever had ever...

As we walked, I saw Twilight was grimacing slightly.

"Food's all taken care of, next is weather." Announced Spike, Maker that was good, the best apple I've ever had, and I lived on the best food the best chefs in Ferelden have to offer.

"Ugh... I ate too much pie..." groaned Twilight.

"I could never have too much pie… mmm pie…" I salivated, even though I'd had plenty of pie, say what you like about me, but I have a weakness for pies, especially meat pie.

"Hmm, there's supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds." Said Spike, clearing the clouds? Do these ponies have control of the weather as well? Our mages usually help with that.

"Well, she's not doing a very good job, is she?" said Twilight.

"You don't sa-" I never finished as I sensed danger again and hit the DECK!

Suddenly a cyan blue Pegasus crashed into Twilight and sent her into the ground, in hindsight I should've took the blow…

"Uh, 'scuse me?" asked the Pegasus as she recovered quickly and was flying, likely to avoid any possible wrath from the purple anti-social, now angry unicorn.

I helped Twilight up who groaned as she was covered in mud.

"Lemme help you." Said the Pegasus and brought a raincloud over and jumped on it, washing and soaking Twilight.

"Oops, I guess I overdid it. Um, uh, how about this? My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry!" exclaimed the Pegasus who I now assumed was Rainbow Dash.

She quickly encircled Twilight, creating a whirlwind, and drying her off, but leaving her with an afro.

"Hmm, more effective than having magic used, it usually ends with singed hair…" I reminisced, it was when I let Morrigan dry me off after I tripped and fell into Lake Calenhad…

"No no. Don't thank me. You're quite welcome." Said Rainbow Dash

Suddenly Spike burst out laughing.

"Let me guess. You're Rainbow Dash?" Stated Twilight.

"The one and only. Why, you heard of me?" asked Rainbow.

"You sound like my friend Zevran… 'you've never heard of me? Never heard of the Crows?'" I said in my best Zevran accent.

"I heard you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear… I'm Twilight Sparkle, and the Princess sent me to check on the weather." Sighed Twilight.

"Name's Grey Warden."

"Yeah, yeah, that'll be a snap. I'll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I'm done practicing." She said and laid back on a cloud.

"Practicing for what?" asked Twilight.

"The Wonderbolts! They're gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I'm gonna show 'em my stuff!" said Rainbow.

"Now you sound like Cailen… trying to impress and cater to my Order, hmm, well, good luck." I said.

"The Wonderbolts?" asked Twilight, sounding unconvinced.

"Yep!" exclaimed Rainbow.

"The most talented flyers in all of Equestria?" asked Twilight, being a Master of Coercion, I could see where this was going.

"That's them!"

"Pfft! Please. They'd never accept a Pegasus who can't even keep the sky clear for one measly day." Said Twilight.

"Hey, I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat!" claimed Rainbow.

"And I'm royalty, I could put in a good word for you, but it doesn't look like the job-" I stopped as she whooshed away and I timed her.

"Loop-de-loop around, and wham! What'd I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. I'd never leave Ponyville hanging." Said Rainbow.

"Hmm, impressive." I said, I truly had seen more impressive things than that, no joke… how the hell do you juggle small rodents to Orlesian ballads anyway?

"You should see the look on your face. Ha! You're a laugh, Twilight Sparkle, and you as well Grey Warden. I can't wait to hang out some more."

Barkspawn woofed.

"This is Barkspawn, my hound." I said and she went right in his face as if judging him and he licked her, leaving a slobber trail on her cheek, she smiled and laughed.

"You too Barkspawn." She laughed and sped away.

"Wow, she's amazing!" said Spike and flicked Twilight's new hairstyle.

"It's not that bad." I said as we walked, leaving Spike.

"Wait! It's kinda pretty once you get used to it!" called Spike.

We walked to the town hall, to check on the decorations, Barkspawn waited outside.

"Decorations. Beautiful..." said Spike as we looked, it was comparable to my wedding/coronation.

"Yes, the décor is coming along nicely. This ought'a be quick. I'll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed." Said Twilight as we looked around.

"It is very nice." I said.

"Not the décor, her!" exclaimed Spike and pointed at a white pony with three diamonds on her ass.

"No, no, no, oh! Goodness no." she said… Orlesian? Sounds it, Orlais doesn't exist here however, I was brought up to despise Orlais, but I don't, it was another time, things have changed, Orlais has changed.

"How are my spines? Are they straight?" he asked.

"Yes, just don't make the fact you're swooning over her obvious, compliment her, and act cool." I said as Twilight began conversation, I remember Zevran flirting with me... so I know how to flirt… to a degree.

"Good afternoon-" started Twilight.

"Just a moment, please! I'm 'in the zone', as it were. Oh, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent. Now, um, how can I help yo- ohhh! Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!" asked this 'Rarity' holy hell, she even spoke Orlesion…

"Oh, you mean my mane? Well, it's a long story. We're just here to check on the decorations, and then we'll be out of your hair!" said Twilight, I smiled to Rarity and bowed slightly and she blushed a little.

"Out of my hair? What about your hair?! Your coltfriend there has wonderful hair for a male." Smiled Rarity and started to push Twilight.

"We're not together." I said and Rarity smiled for a second before pushing her even stronger.

"Wait! Where are we going?! Help!" exclaimed Twilight and me and Spike were confused as we followed.

We headed to a building that looks like a magic carousel that says 'Carousel Boutique' the name… Orlais… this is driving me crazy…

"No, no, uh-uh. Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too... shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you're from, and your friend over there is an Alicorn which makes him as royalty." Said Rarity, she seemed to be acting almost, first impressions and all that, unlike Orlesian nobles, she seems quite down-to-Thedas or wherever the hell we are...

"No longer, I've been travelling for a good long while, this is just my next stop and I thought I'd catch this 'Summer Sun Celebration' that is the topic of discussion." I smiled, I knew how to work Orlesian politics, I was sent there for a year after all, and according to Leliana, without prior instruction, I played the Game exceptionally well.

I saw Rarity trying to fit Twilight with a corset, ouch...

"Well… I've... been sent... from Canterlot... to-" to wheezed Twilight before Rarity let go of the string she was pulling and Twilight went flying.

"Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can't wait to hear all about it! We are gonna be the best of friends, you, you and I..." smiled Rarity and hugged Twilight and I close.

"Why not?" I asked with a roll of my eyes, she reminds me of Leliana come to think of it…

"Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!" exclaimed Rarity and ran.

"Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat a new color!" shouted Twilight and we sped off.

"Wasn't she wonderful?" asked Spike as he climbed on Twilight's back.

"Focus, Casanova. What's next on the list?" asked Twilight.

"Oh, uh, music! It's the last one!" exclaimed Spike, music in Orlais and Ferelden are very different, but all are beautiful to me, I wonder what the music is like here?

I heard birdsong in the distance… it sounded amazing, I remember Leliana singing to us in camp, she had a beautiful voice.

We entered a clearing among a maze of bushes, and saw a bird choir and a yellow pony conducting them.

"Oh my. Um, stop please, everyone, umm. Excuse me, sir? I mean, no offense, but your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off. Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one two three-" started the yellow pony before Twilight greeted her.

"Hello!" exclaimed Twilight and the poor yellow pony jumped out of her ski- I mean, fur and yelped.

"Oh my, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to frighten your birds. I'm just here to check up on the music and it's sounding beautiful." Said Twilight.

"You need to synchronise your melody, bring your harmonies together and it will be perfect." I said, Twilight glanced at me and I shrugged, truly it was because in my travels I've heard so many songs and been taught many lessons over campfires by Zevran, who surprisingly loved music and Oghren who taught me the Tavern classics, and of course, our bard, Leliana…

"I'm Twilight Sparkle… What's your name?"

"Um... I'm Fluttershy." Muttered Fluttershy, it was too quiet for the average pony to hear but over time I've learned to pick out certain conversations in a room of noise, so one quiet speck was no problem. She reminded me of Morrigan when she first left the wilds, a little nervous, not that she showed it, but I could see it, unlike Fluttershy, who practically screamed it.

"I'm sorry, what was that?" asked Twilight.

"Um... My name is Fluttershy." She said even quieter, even I had to strain to hear.

"Didn't quite catch that." Said Twilight.

Fluttershy squeaked and cowered as her birds came back.

"Well, um, it looks like your birds are back, so I guess everything's in order. Keep up the good work!" exclaimed Twilight and we walked away where Spike was waiting from 'relieving' himself in a bush and Barkspawn who was doing the same.

"Oookay, well, that was easy." Smiled Twilight.

"A baby dragon!" exclaimed Fluttershy and dashed toward us.

"Andraste's ass!" I exclaimed and ducked again as Twilight was grounded… again… I really needs to stop moving and putting Twilight in harm's way…

"Oh, I've never seen a baby dragon before. He's sooo cute! And that dog! I've never seen a breed like it! He's a fluffy little boy!" exclaimed Fluttershy, Barkspawn had an expression that could only be described as 'not amused' he hated being called cute by anyone except Leliana.

"Well, well, well...!" Spike folded his arms and Barkspawn stood proudly, he knew how to make an impression.

"Oh my, he talks. I didn't know dragons could talk. That's just so incredibly wonderful I, I just don't even know what to say!" exclaimed Fluttershy as I helped Twilight up again.

"Well, in that case we'd better be going." Said Twilight as Spike was placed onto her back and we walked.

"Wait, wait! What's his name? and his name?" asked Fluttershy and pointed to Spike and Barkspawn with her hooves.

"I'm Spike."

"That's Barkspawn."

"Hi Spike, I'm Fluttershy. Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about?" asked Fluttershy, well, I wish I had time to sit down to tea with the Archdemon... Because of the fact the Archdemon is... was a Dragon, I did my research, I know a lot about dragons and could probably make good conversation with him, but hey, he has a sword through his face and I claimed the bones and head as trophies, so I win.

"Well, what do you wanna know?" asked Spike.

"Absolutely everything." Said Fluttershy, luckily, I had trained as a Templar with Alistair but didn't learn the abilities or take Lyrium, so I had really good mental focus, Twilight groaned and was unhappy while I focused, I said the Chant of Light to myself as accurately as I could and at times repeated the Grey Warden vigil, also being a Spirit Warrior meant the Veil was more open to me, so I transferred my mind to the Fade so I could focus.

"Well... I started out as a cute little purple and green egg..." he started as I zoned out, I would subconsciously follow Twilight...

I heard the story coming to an end, so I yanked myself back to reality.

"...and that's the story of my whole entire life! Well, up until today. Do you wanna hear about today?" he asked as I prepared to zone out again.

"Oh, yes, please!" exclaimed Fluttershy as Twilight spun around, almost sending Spike off her back, I then saw the most literal interpretation of a tree house in the history of anything.

"I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast? This is where I'm staying while in Ponyville and my poor baby dragon needs his sleep." Said Twilight

"No I don't- whoa!" he exclaimed as she deliberately threw him off.

"Aww, wook at dat, he's so sweepy he can't even keep his widdle bawance!" said Twilight in a childlike voice, Spike did not look amused.

"Poor thing, you simply must get into bed..." said Fluttershy and flew him into the tree, not as in, in a hurtful way... Oh you know what I mean!

"Yes, yes, we'll get right on that. Well, g'night!" exclaimed Twilight and pulled me and Barkspawn inside and slammed the door on her.

"Huh. Rude much?" asked Spike.

"I agree, she was simply curious." I said and raised an eyebrow.

"Sorry, Spike, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we're running out of time! I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where's the light?" asked Twilight, she bumped into me and I looked at her.

"I require an explanation." I said, she began to explain but Barkspawn growled and I stopped.

"Wait.. we're not alone…" I said, I could make out faces in the dark, Twilight cautiously switched the light on.

"Surprise!" yelled a bunch of ponies.

"MAKER'S FLAMING BALLS!" I yelled and jumped so high into the hair I felt my head lightly touch the ceiling, Sten would be proud...

Twilight groaned as I steadied my breaths

"Surprise!" yelled a pink pony and blew a party whistle.

"Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh?" she said and got very close.

"Back up please." I said and she nodded and backed up a little.

"Very surprised. Libraries are supposed to be quiet." Groaned Twilight, I had to agree.

"Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y'see, I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all [deep gasp] But you…" she said to me.

"Me?" I asked.

"Yeah, you were like-" she said and put on an exaggerated serious face, I didn't think of myself as serious…

"Ok…" I said.

"Remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville!" she said

"I'm confu-" she cut me off and kept rambling.

"And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went [deep gasp!] I must throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!" said Pinkie

Twilight poured a drink and drank it by levitating it as Pinkie rambled on.

"Are you all right, sugarcube?" asked Applejack, I saw she had drank hot sauce… she practically became a kettle and then a train whistle.

I saw tears streaming down her face from the spice and she ran upstairs, if the spice here was like back home... well…

"Aww, she's so happy she's crying!" said Pinkie Pie.

"Hot sauce… ooh..." said Spike, Pinkie poured it on a cupcake and ate it.

"What? It's good!" said Pinkie.

I decided to take a jug of milk up for her, I went into the kitchen this place apparently had, time to try my 'magic'…

I faced the jug and concentrated, hoping something would happen, a gray aura surrounded it but it didn't lift, I tried and concentrated harder… suddenly I remembered the note… I imagined my hand as a human picking the jug up and it worked, I walked through the party that was starting, Barkspawn seemed to be enjoying himself so I let him stay. 

I went upstairs finding Twilight under the tap, drinking water, these taps look different to ours, ours are more advanced, made from Fade-Touched Silverite.

I went over to her and she gasped when she saw my shadow and spun around, she breathed a sigh of relief when it was me.

"Soudn't uu beh enjoyen tha partey?" asked Twilight with her tongue out from the hot sauce, I presented the jug of milk and she grabbed it in her aura and gulped it.

"It's fine, if your hot sauce is anything like ours, you must be having the worst time." I said with an amused look.

"Yeah, I've had better." she said as she sighed happily from the milk and had some around her mouth.

"I can imagine." I chuckled.
"So you asked for an explanation." said Twilight and sat down.

"I did." I confirmed.

"Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria; there were two regal sisters who ruled together, and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn. The younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects; all the different types of ponies. But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness, Nightmare Moon. She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom. the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon, and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since." said Twilight.

Raise the sun and moon? this Princess must be very powerful...

"The night? I love the night, sometimes I lie there and stare at the stars and moon, being through what I have, you learn to appreciate life for far more than it is, you look beyond simple mortal confines and look at the bigger picture, night may well be when the monsters come out, but it is also when the wise owls, and other wonderful creatures come out, night is not just a time of day, but a time of it's own." I said.

"That was amazing, I'd like to hear some stories one day."  said Twilight.

"Maybe one day, yes, are you going to continue your research?" I asked.

"No, the other ponies are crowded in front of the bookshelves, I need some sleep." she said.

"Me too." I yawned, come to think of it, I haven't slept in about a day!

"Do you have a house?" she asked.

"No, I usually set up a camp." I said.

"Here, there's a spare bed there." she said and pulled it out with her magic.

"Thanks." I said when she laid down I pulled the sheet and pillow down and slept on the floor, after living on the road for years, I've grown accustomed to sleeping on the cold hard ground.

I sighed as I lay down and fell asleep instantly, my sword at my side.

A couple hours later, I felt something and awoke quickly, I heard the door open and saw Twilight with a pillow over her head.

“Hey Twilight! Pinkie Pie's starting "pin the tail on the pony"! Wanna play?” asked Spike, Barkspawn walked over to me and licked me and I petted him.

“No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?!” asked Twilight, I felt it was around 11:00, I had a great internal clock, all the time in the Deep Roads I think.

“It's the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they'll miss the Princess raise the sun! You really should lighten up, Twilight. It's a party!” exclaimed Spike and shut the door.

“Wish I knew about that tradition…” I chuckled and got up.

Twilight mockingly imitated Spike.

“Ugh, here I thought I'd have time to learn about the Elements of Harmony but, silly me, all this ridiculous friend-making has kept me from it! "Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about everlasting night." I hope the Princess was right... I hope it really is just an old ponytale...” said Twilight, I sat next to her on the bed.

“Twilight, on my journeys, when I first started, the group I was with were doubted when we were the experts on a threat that was rising, we were the only ones who could stop it, the ultimate shield against it, we were doubted and many of us died, after that, I stopped the threat pretty much by myself, on the journey I have discovered many supposed ‘’legends’ that I have proved were true, basically I have proven not to take anything at fa- err muzzle value, I have seen too much, so I guess I’m saying I believe you.” I explained.

“Really? Nopony else believes me, thanks.” She said.

“C'mon, guys, it's time to watch the sunrise!” exclaimed Spike.

“We’re coming dude.” I said and got up, I put the scabbard on.

We walked to the town hall again and suddenly I felt s sense of dread overtake me, this usually happens right before something bad is about to happen, I first felt this just before Ostagar, look what happened, before the Tower of Ishal, look what happened, just before we met Branka, look what happened.

“Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited- well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went [deep gasp] but I mean really, who can top that?”

“Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!” exclaimed the mayor and everypony cheered, I saw Twilight looking nervous, and so was I.

I took a breath, steadied myself and cast my gaze over the room from the corner I was in, because Loghain had taught me how to be Master Tactician, I knew to keep my gaze on my charges at all times, then I kept my head straight but moved my eyes to the balcony, I couldn’t feel anybody there, being a Reaver, I could feel heartbeats, it’s what gives us the Blood Frenzy, the heartbeats drive us on.

“Balcony. Collapsible. If enough pressure is applied. Ponies. Civilians, need to keep out of harms way. Mayor, could calm them down, Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Possible backup. Pinkie Pie. Could run interference. Rarity, could also distract. Fluttershy, keep out of conflict. Royal guards, also backup, although guards aren’t much use and get in the way, and usually just add to casualties.” I went over a plan in my head, suddenly Pinkie popped up.

“Hey!” she said.

“Good evening Mrs Pie.” I said.

“It’s just Pinkie, Mrs. Pie is my mommy! Say, what’re you doin’ in the corner?” she asked.

“Keeping watch, I hope to meet with the Princess in private, I wish to talk with her.” I said.

Suddenly Pinkie almost teleported back by Twilight.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria...” heh, some title…  I got ready, either to see the Princess, to see the enemy or see nothing, I saw Twilight look up during the speech and so did I, suddenly, the stars aligned, into… the Maker constellation? It remained like that for but a second before displacing into a random constellation, then the face in the moon also disappeared…

“Ready?” I heard Fluttershy, even through the crowd and the speech.

“...Princess Celestia!” exclaimed the mayor, I moved to Twilight’s side as the fanfare played and Rarity pulled a cord, the curtain opened and...

Nothing…

“Huh?” asked Rarity, Twilight shifted her gaze to me for a second, meanwhile, I turned a scowl to the balcony.

“This can't be good.” Said Twilight.

“Remain calm, serene, always in command of yourself, you will then find out how easy it is to get along.” I said, Twilight took a breath and nodded.

“Remain calm, everypony, there must be a reasonable explanation!” exclaimed the mayor.

“Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games! Is she hiding?” asked Pinkie.

“In war, victory, in peace, vigilance, in death, sacrifice.” I said to myself quietly.

“She's gone!” exclaimed Rarity.

“No, really?” I asked, suddenly I felt a temperature drop, it went unnoticed by the ponies because of their fur.

“Ooh, she's good.” Said Pinkie before yelping

They all gasped I turned my head and saw a blue mist, but it was an evil mist- you know, no, I can't- [sigh] an evil mi- really? Ok… 

I raised an eyebrow at the mist, but I knew never to underestimate your enemies, I couldn't believe the ponies were surprised, it's their legend!

“Oh no... Nightmare Moon!” said Twilight and ducked her head.

“Stay calm kid, Warden’s on the case.” I winked at her and became a Spirit Warrior, I’d learned how to use the Fade around me as a cloak, so I disappeared, time to set my plan in motion.

“Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious, little sun-loving faces.” She said.

“What did you do with our Princess?!” demanded Rainbow Dash and tried for her.

“Whoa there, Nelly...” said Applejack holding her tail.

“Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am?”

“Hey, I got a question, why do we give a crap?” I asked, she did a 90° turn to see me leaning against the wall.

“Hmm, a male Alicorn I see, and one with a mouth, I thought the stallion Alicorns died off due to their war-like nature.” Said Nightmare Moon with a raised eye. 

“Wouldn’t know love.” I said.

“Hmm, well it's good to know there’s at least one left…” said Nightmare.

“Why? There’s no way I’d… with you.” I said.

“Why not? Am I not… exquisite enough? Not… mare enough? Or is there another?” asked Nightmare and sashayed her hips and trotted over to me, I kept my 
stone face.

“Can't say there is.” I said nonchalantly and bit an apple.

“In any case, the race I knew wouldn’t life a wing to help these… subjects.” Said Nightmare.

“Well, times have changed, being the last of my race has made me see more than I can imagine, these ponies are not pawns in a game of chess, they are the 
true kings and queens, we are the pawns, that should listen to them, from what I’ve seen so far, the Princess understands that.” I said.

“How dare you! Do you know who I am?!” she exclaimed.

“Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um, Hokey Smokes! How about... Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty-“ said Pinkie before an apple was stuffed on her mouth.

“Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?” asked Nightmare.

“1000 years is a long time, plenty of time for successors and the such, plus trying to overthrow the current monarch puts you in a difficult position, Nightmare Moon.” I said.

“I did. And I know who you are. You're the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon!” said Twilight.

All the ponies gasped, these ponies really are dumb…

“Well well well, someponies remember me. Then you also know why I'm here.” She said.

“You're here to... to...” said Twilight and started to panic a little.

“Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!” exclaimed Nightmare Moon.

“First of all, this is so funny, I’ve taken on demons, Darkspawn, magic trees, and the frickin’ Archdemon! And here, a blue furry, kind of cute pony is trying to tell me she’s going to best me? This needs to be written down as the most suicidal thing ever.” I laughed in stitches.

“Do not mock me sir, you will regret it.” said Nightmare Moon.

I suddenly stopped laughing and got up, pulling my best ‘not amused’ face, I approached Nightmare and her ears flattened as she saw I was about a foot/hoof taller than her…
> Eternal Night? F*** That!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I backed up and Nightmare did an evil laugh

“Seize her! Only she knows where the Princess is!” said the mayor to the guards, suddenly I could feel magic about to be used, I had to act, NOW!

“Stand back, you foals!“ exclaimed Nightmare and blasted lightening in, not even controlled lightening!

I bucked a vase, which fell onto a seesaw, which catapulted it into destroying a chandelier’s counterweight, the one in the center of the room fell, I had purposely put a wet floor sign there, and luckily ponies avoided the area, then the chandelier by the entrance was unbalanced, it fell, but before it even skimmed a pony it stopped from its counterweight, Barkspawn jumped and growled, warning them away, ponies got the idea and moved as it fell, just in case It fell again, and it did, Barkspawn moved and got away just in time.

This unbalanced the last one, above me and Nightmare, but it didn’t play out as she expected, this unbalanced the whole ceiling, and chandelier’s weight made the ceiling collapse on her as I had backed up a fair bit, she looked up, gasped and it collapsed on her, she turned back into mist, I had destroyed her physical form temporarily, Applejack couldn’t hold Rainbow and she flew after Nightmare.

“Twilight, time to move!” I said as I leapt from the balcony, Barkspawn nudged her as she snapped back and nodded determinedly, we ran out and to the library.

“Come back here!” yelled Dash and she panted.

“Nighttime? Forever? Where're they going?”

We got in and I slammed the door with my magic.

“That was amazing!” exclaimed Twilight.

“Yeah, that was… awesome…” said Spike and he yawned, Twilight picked him up and took him upstairs.

Meanwhile I updated my codex with something about each of the girls and Equestria itself and Ponyville and the mare in the moon tale.

“Uh... We gotta stop Nightmare!...” he tried before succumbing to sleep, Barkspawn also laid down.

“You've been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon after all.”

“Oh no, you are not sleeping.” I said to Barkspawn, he huffed and got up.

“You can lie down, but no sleeping.” I said and he pretty much nodded.

“That was so genius! And the way you knew she’d turn into mist and survive so you took out her physical form where she can do the most damage!” said 
Twilight as she levitated some books over, I froze…

Knew she’d turn to mist? Hang on… I just realized something, I hadn’t seen a single mugging, a single weapon, a single soldier with a weapon, no deadly spells except Nightmare… the serenity and peace I felt… was this… did these ponies not understand violence? violent death? They were oblivious to war and death, all they know is peace and love…

“Elements, elements, elements... Ugh! How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?” said Twilight, snapping me out of my stupor.
I shook my head and started the search for Elements, suddenly the door was barged and I prepared to fight, suddenly Rainbow flew right up to me and Twilight, she tried to be intimidating and make us back off but I stayed my ground, she was right in my face and I stared her down.

“And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you spies? Whoa, calm down Bar- woah!” exclaimed Rainbow as Barkspawn warned her not to invade my personal space before Applejack reigned her in.

“Simmer down, Sally. They ain't no spies. But they sure know what's going on. Don't you, Twilight, Warden?” I glanced at Twilight and nodded, I silently walked past the group, their eyes followed me and I went upstairs for a second, I came back down with a book and placed it before Twilight.

“I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them; I don't even know what they do!” exclaimed Twilight, I had an idea.

"The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide." Said Pinkie, I was impressed.

“How did you find that?!” asked Twilight.

“It was under ‘E’!” sang Pinkie, chuckled and sighed… of course it was that simple.

“Oh. There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. Hold on… there’s a footnote… it says that there is seventh?” asked Twilight and became confused.

“Hmm…” I said as I noticed a blue mist moving away from a window above us.

“It is said the Seventh represents... Well, it's not clear, but there are two parts, two sides of the same coin, one rarely speaks and the other not at all they keep each other company in the darkest of times and they represent balance in the world between ponies and much much more, but it doesn't state what it is exactly. It is said, the last known location of the first five elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now—“ said Twilight, I blinked and suddenly we were in front of-

“The Everfree Forest!” said the 5 locals.

“What? I’ve been in worse forests.” I said, I remember the Bracilian Forest… that was not the best time, I was put asleep by a demon, I had to fight through werewolves and... magic trees, I fought a Makerdamn dragon! and then the Dalish Keeper, that is pretty much an average walk in the woods for me.

“See? With Warden with us we’re set! whee! Let's go!” exclaimed Pinkie.

“Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer, but I'd really rather do this on my own.” Said Twilight.

“Nope, you need my expertise, I’ve survived in forests before you were born.” I said.

“He’s right, no can do, sugarcube. We sure ain't lettin' any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're stickin' to you like caramel on a candy apple.” 
Said Applejack and they all went on ahead as they agreed.

“Barkspawn, take up our 6... no pun intended.” I said and he hung back.

“Especially if there's candy apples in there. What? Those things are good.” Said Pinkie.
Twilight sighed.

“Sometimes, it’s better to have a group, then to be alone, I miss my old travelling companions, come on, let’s go.” I said and we moved on.

“So, none of you have been in here before?” asked Twilight as we walked.

“Ugh, Heavens no! Just look at it - it's dreadful.”

“And it ain't natural. Folks say it don't work the same as Equestria.” Said Applejack.

“Like I said, worse forests exist.” I stated as I kept vigilant.

“What's that supposed to mean?” asked Twilight.

“A forest back in my country, I had to travel there for a good while, there were wolves, dragons, old hermits, talking trees, violent trees, like I said, I’ve had worse.” I said.

“And why isn’t it natural?” asked Twilight.

“Nopony knows. You know why?”

“Rainbow, quit it.” Said Applejack as Rainbow crawled towards Pinkie, Fluttershy and Rarity.

“ 'cause everypony who's ever come in has never come out!” finished Rainbow.

Suddenly I felt the ground collapse beneath me.

“Oh… shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiitttttttttttttttt!!!” I yelled as we fell, suddenly my wings flared to life and I pictured myself with two extra appendages, it didn’t seem to work too much, so I pictured myself as a dragon, it worked and I flew down after the girls, Barkspawn managed to balance himself on the slide and was sliding like a pro. 

“Fluttershy! Warden! Quick!” exclaimed Rainbow.

“Oh my goodness, oh my goodness.” Muttered Fluttershy.

I tried to catch Twilight but Nightmare Moon’s mist came out of nowhere and clipped my wings.

I fell with them and landed on the slope, I managed to control my slide, I landed by Twilight, and out of nowhere a vine attached itself to my hind leg, I tried to walk but fell and almost went down the gorge, I held on luckily, I heard Twilight scream.

“Hold on! I'm a-comin'!” said Applejack.

“Applejack! What do I do?” asked Twilight.

“Let go! Heh, joke, don’t…” I said as I gulped as the drop.

“He’s right, let go.” Said Applejack.

“Are you crazy?” asked Twilight.

“No I ain't. I promise you'll be safe.”  Said Applejack.

“Don’t make promises… you can’t keep.” I breathed as I held on, I saw Barkspawn waiting for us at the bottom.

“That's not true!”

“Now listen here. What I'm sayin' to you is the honest truth. Let go, and you'll be safe.” Said Applejack, I saw Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy waiting to catch her.

Twilight let go and fell, then she was caught by our two pegasi.

“Sorry girls. I'm not used to holding anything more than a bunny or two.” Said Fluttershy as Twilight slipped from her grasp slightly.

“So… he’s still up there.” Said Rainbow and pointed a hoof at me.

“Well… yeah, hang on.” I said, I hauled myself slightly up, I pushed myself off of the ledge and backflipped onto a branch and I climbed down the tree.

“And that is dexterity.” I said and as we were about to move on, I looked back and saw a beast in the distance.

“And once Pinkie and Rarity were saved, whoosh... Me and Fluttershy loop-de-loop around and WHAM! Caught you right in the nick of time.” Said Rainbow, I chuckled at her ego, she reminded me of a less boisterous Oghren, telling of his tales in the Deep.

“Yes, Rainbow, I was there, and I'm very grateful, but we gotta-[gasps] A manticore!” exclaimed Twilight and I turned to see a half lion half scorpion.

Pretty sure I saw Nightmare Moon do something to him.

“We've gotta get past him!” said Twilight.

He went right next to Rarity who bucked him in the face.

“Take that, you ruffian!” exclaimed Rarity.

“My hair!“ said Rarity as the Manticore roared in her face.

“Wait.” Mumbled Fluttershy.

The manticore roared and Applejack was on top of him.

“YEE-HAW! Git along, little dogie.” She exclaimed. 

“Wait.” Said Fluttershy again.

I decided to sit it out.

“Whoa! All yours, partner.” Said Applejack to Rainbow as she was thrown off.

“I'm on it.” Said Rainbow Dash who encircled him quickly.

“Wait!” said Fluttershy getting louder.

“Rainbow!” exclaimed everypony as Rainbow was thrown as he hit her.

Suddenly the 6 girls were about to face off with him.

“WAIT!” yelled Fluttershy.

They all stopped, Fluttershy approached.

“Shhh... It's okay. Oh, you poor, poor little baby.” Said Fluttershy.

“Little?” said Rainbow as the manticore showed Fluttershy a spike in his paw.

“Now this might hurt for just a second.” Said Fluttershy and pulled the spike out.

“Fluttershy!” yelled the girls as the manticore grabbed her and…

Licked her.

“Aw you're just a little ol' baby kitty, aren't you? Yes you are, yes you are.” Said Fluttershy and he walked away.

“How did you know about the thorn?” asked Twilight

“I didn't. Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.” Said Fluttershy, we moved on.

As we walked through the forest, I looked all around us, darting my eyes everywhere, the others noticed.

“Why ‘re ya lookin’ everywhere?” asked Applejack.

“Habit, the forests are a dangerous place, dangers behind every corner.”  I said, never stopping my eye movement, I had to keep vigilant.

“Calm down, you don’t need to be so protective.” Said Twilight.

“Well, it’s sort of ingrained into my brain, years on the move have taught me to be vigilant, always watching, always listening.” I said and cocked my ear, an advantage of being a pony. 

We kept walking and I eased up on the vigilance, I had to remember: this isn’t Ferelden, there aren’t werewolves in the woods, no giant deadly bears, sure there are Manticores and such, but with Fluttershy here, we should be fine.

I eased up and took a breath, removing my concentration, it was a Grey Warden ability you acquire after a few years, immersing yourself in your surroundings, becoming attuned with nature, hearing it’s cried, it’s moans, and it’s grunts as the trees sway in the wind, you can feel a single thing out of place with that concentration.

I have kinda been a grump since I got here, I need to stop being such a misery ass. 

“No. My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck.” Said Rarity as we were plunged into complete darkness.

“Well, there ya go.” I said.

“Well, I didn't mean that literally.” She said.

“That ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn't even know it.” Said Twilight, I could see perfectly, after all I’m a Grey Warden, we need to be able to see in the darkness, because the Deep Roads are… well, deep! and dark.

“I didn't see you there, my apologies.” Said Rarity, and everypony was bumping into one another, while I was still walking, I stopped dead. Another shiver. Something wrong…

“Oh wait, I think I stepped in somethin'.” Said Applejack.

I looked back slightly and Fluttershy screamed, I spun around and looked at her.

“It's just mud.” Said Applejack, suddenly I saw trees with faces.

“Not again…” I sat down and fake cried.

All the things that could've happened and they give me Sylvans.

Suddenly, I started laughing.

And Pinkie joined in, why was I laughing? I think it's the fact I realised that trees were trying to kill me, on top of all the other things, demons, Dragons and Darkspawn, hell, now trees, nature itself is trying to kill me, I'm honored!

It's really funny if you think about it.

Everypony else was confused.

"Bleh, Ooo!" said Pinkie as we laughed.

"Warden, Pinkie, what are you doing?! Run!" said Twilight.

"Oh Maker! this is too funny!" I was in hysterics

"Oh girls, don't you see?" asked Pinkie.

"When I was a little filly and the sun was going down..." she sang.

“Tell me she's not...” said Twilight.

“The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown...” sang Pinkie

“She is.” Affirmed Rarity.

“I'd hide under my pillow. From what I thought I saw. But Granny Pie said that wasn't the way. To deal with fears at all.” She sang again.

“Then what is?” asked Rainbow, I usually use my greatsword to sort my fears out.

“She said, "Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall. Learn to face your fears. You'll see that they can't hurt you just laugh to make them disappear, ha! ha! ha!" me and Pinkie laughed, turning the trees normal and everypony gasped.

“So, giggle at the ghostly. Guffaw at the grossly. Crack up at the creepy. Whoop it up with the weepy. Chortle at the kooky. Snortle at the spooky. And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna... hahahaha... heh... Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuugh!" all the girls laughed on the floor and I leaned on a tree watching them, it was the last tree with a face, I looked at it, gestured to them and chuckled, making the last face disappear, even Barkspawn was laughing in his own way.

We carried on walking and moving along, suddenly I stopped and spun around, I backflipped, dodging an arrow speeding toward me, I looked ahead and saw a fallen tree, there was only one way...

I entered the brush with the girls, I saw two feral ponies, obviously hungry and fighting over a scrap of food, and willing to kill anypony who gets in the way, I grumbled and stepped in, Applejack grabbed me and held me back.

"What do you think yer doin' pardner?!" she whispered harshly.

"Helping, it isn't right for two starving sentients to fight over food, they'll just end up killing somepony, they almost killed me! plus they're in the way" I whispered back and stepped in.

"Hey, lads, think we can stop this petty squabble? what happened?" I asked.

“Some blue mist came through while we were walking and suddenly, I got very hungy but when we looked in our basket, nothing bar one thing was there, we continued on, getting even hungrier, as though the thing sapped our energy." he said, I knew how to get these two to share... I nodded to Barkspawn and he nodded back, we always shared some kind of telepathic connection, much more than an average Mabari and owner.

"Well, maybe I should remove the middle man to stop you two fighting..." I said and approached the apple.

"No! it’s our food!" said one and jumped in front of it.

"Yeah our food! not yours!" suddenly Barkspawn grabbed it quietly and clambered up a tree, when I backed off and they turned around to continue fighting to find the apple gone, they saw it up a tree and both tried for it, one tried to climb and the other pulled them down, and so the cycle repeated, until they looked at each other in understanding.

One climbed while the other supported him, and they got the apple, then they smiled, the one who had the apple placed it down.

"Share?" he asked.

"Share." smiled the other and they split it, suddenly when they ate the apple they both returned to a healthy state and bounded off with their newfound energy.

"And that is how you keep order without getting involved." I said and walked past the girls and continued on the trail, me and Barkspawn looking smug.

Eventually we came across a bridge.

“How are we gonna cross this?” asked Pinkie.

I looked at the bridge and turned to the girls with a smile.

“Swim?” I asked and they looked at me funny.

“What?” I asked, even Barkspawn shook his head.

Suddenly we heard a cry, but like actual crying…

“Huh?” asked Pinkie, I glanced at the girls and approached the bush, I burst through and saw a huge sea serpent crying rivers… literally.

“Is it too much to ask for one day of peace? One day without anyone going ‘Hey Warden! Will you help me with this menial task that I apparently can't do myself because Grey Wardens clearly have nothing better to do!'? Maker's breath!” I exclaimed before taking a breath and nodding to the perplexed girls, who just shrugged as we approached.

"What a world, what a world."

"Don't have to tell me twice." I mumbled.

"Excuse me, sir. Why are you crying?" asked Twilight.

"Well, I don't know. I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore 
half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid." he started to bawl.

"Hmm, I suppose I don't blame him, my chin strap is my life!"(Oh btw here is my Warden in human form)







"Oh, give me a break." said Rainbow Dash.

"You're preachin' to the choir." I said.

"That's what all the fuss is about?" asked Applejack.

"Why, of course it is. How can you be so insensitive? Oh, just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales." she said, no sly hint in her voice, she was entirely genuine.

"I know." he sniffed sadly.

"And your expertly coiffed mane." she complimented him.

"Oh, I know, I know." he said, well he certainly didn't lack self-confidence...

"Your fabulous manicure." she said and he held his claw out and gasped.

"It's so true!" he said.

"All ruined without your beautiful mustache." concluded Rarity.

"It's true, I'm hideous!" he said.

"Who knows? maybe 'uneven' will be the next 'big thing' as the Orlesians say." I quipped.

"I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected." said Rarity and plucked(?) a scale from him.

"What did you do that for?" he asked.

"Rarity, what are you-" started Twilight before a slice was heard and Rarity's tail vanished onto the serpent's face.

"Oh-hohohoho! My mustache. How wonderful." he said.

"You look smashing." smiled Rarity sincerely yet sadly.

"Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail..." said Twilight.

"Oh. It's fine, my dear. Short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back." she said.

"So would the mustache." whispered Rainbow Dash, prompting some chuckles.

"I'm sure somepony, somewhere has ointment for that, whether it works..." I said.

"We can cross now. Let's go. Ah!" said Twilight as we started to go before suddenly scales appeared beneath us to lift us up/

"Allow me." he said. 

I bowed down by Barkspawn.

"Making friends with giant scaled beasts is far better than killing them, and makes for a nice change of pace." I said and he seemed to agree.

"There it is, the ruin that holds The Elements of Harmony. We made it!" said Twilight as we came over a hill to reveal it.

Suddenly Twilight took off, I backed up and jumped from the hill.

"Twilight, wait for us!"

"We're almost there. Whoa!" as she slid to stop herself falling I landed side-on in front of her and she hit into me.

"What's with you and falling off cliffs today?" asked Rainbow as Twilight rubbed her nose. 

"That was like hitting into a brick wall! youch!" said Twilight nasally as she rubbed her sore nose.

"Having a sore nose is better than having a flat body." I pointed out.

"He's got a point." said Applejack. 

"Now what?" asked Pinkie in defeat.

"Duh." said Rainbow and flared her wings.

"Oh yeah." smild Pinkie as Rainbow Dash flew over, I cocked my ears and concentrated so I could hear what was going on.

"Rainbow..." I heard a slightly raspy voice say.

"Who's there?" asked Rainbow.

"Rainbow..." repeated the voice.

"I ain't scared of you! Show yourself!" exclaimed Rainbow.

"We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria." said the same voice, by Rainbow's reaction it was obviously a physical voice.

"Who?" asked Rainbow.

"Why, you, of course." said the voice.

"Really?! I mean... Oh yeah, me. Hey, uh, you wouldn't mind telling the Wonderbolts that, would ya? 'cause I've been trying to get into that group 
for like, ever." said Rainbow.

"No, Rainbow Dash. We want you to join us, The Shadowbolts. We're the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria, but first, we need a captain. The most magnificent-" started the voice, here come the compliments, like a fucking Desire Demon, they compliment you and work their magic, making you see them as the perfect man or woman, of course, I am immune to such things since it has already happened to me.

"Yep." said Rainbow, accepting the compliment

"Swiftest-" the Shadowbolt continued.

"Yes." said Rainbow.

"Bravest flyer in all the land." concluded the leaders compliments.

"Yes, it's all true." Rainbow chuckled.

"We need... You." finished the leader.

"WOOHOO! Sign me up. Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal." said Rainbow.

"No! It's them or us." said the Shadowbolt, exactly like a demon, you must make a choice, of course if this was the Fade, Rainbow would already be possessed simply for saying 'yes'"

"Rainbow, what's taking so long? Oh no. Rainbow! Don't listen to them." said Twilight as she saw me listening, a fog descended and I couldn't see a thing. 

"Well?" asked the Shadowbolt.

"You... Thank you! For the offer, I mean, but I'm afraid I have to say no." said Rainbow and tied the bridge.

We all cheered as she did. 

"See? I'd never leave my friends hangin'." said Rainbow Dash.

"Good job, else half of us would be splat at the bottom of the cliff back there." I said as we approached the castle.

"Hang on a second..." I said and the girls stopped, damn I wish there was a rogue with us to spot any traps, or maybe pick some locks if this castle has any chests... What can I say? I'm still an adventurer at heart!

After deeming it safe, I nodded and we entered, Barkspawn and I looking wary.

"Whoa. Come on, Twilight. Isn't this what you've been waitin' for?" said Applejack

"The Elements of Harmony, we've found them. Careful, careful!" said Twilight and me, Fluttershy and Rainbow brought them down.

"One, two, three, four... There's only five!" said Pinkie.

"Really? I could've sworn there were 35, but you just cleared that up, thanks Pinkie." I said and she laughed.

"Where's the sixth? and seventh?"

"The book said: when the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed, and the seventh... they will appear when needed." said Twilight.

"What in the hay is that supposed to mean?" asked Applejack

"I'm not sure, but I have an idea. Stand back. I don't know what will happen because if the seventh appears when the others are threatened and prefers to harm rather than listen to the pony who did it, this could get messy." said Twilight.

"I'll stay, I have some abilities which can dispel your magic if things go wrong."

"Come on now, y'all. they need to concentrate." said Applejack, Barkspawn nuzzled me and walked out with the others as I lay by Twilight and nodded to her.

She stated up her magic and concentrated on the Elements, and I closed my eyes and meditated, nullifying harmful magic in the area, making sure not to affect Twilight, but ready to at the slightest hint-

Suddenly I felt dark magic approaching, I was confused at first but by the time I realised...

"Nightmare Moon..." I said as my eyes snapped open and the Elements were vanishing in a portal, and I shook Twilight and she gasped.

"Twilight!" yelled everypony.

"The Elements!" she said and we dived after them.

:Barkspawn POV:

"Twilight, where are you?" asked Applejack as I tried to bark and tell them where they were, I siddenly Barked really loudly and ran and bounded and barked in the direction.

"Look!" said Rarity.

"Come on!" said Applejack as they followed me.

:Regnier's POV:

Twilight coughed and gasped, I was used to being teleported to strange places though.

Nightmare Moon laughed as she held the Elements.

"Hmph!" Twilight gasped as I helped her up again, and she prepared to strike, by her horn slightly flaring, I could tell she had a plan.

"Stay close." she mumbled.

"Mmm hmm." I said as I also prepared to charge.

"You're kidding. You're kidding, right?" asked Nightmare and I smiled slightly as we charged.

Just before we hit, we teleported to the Elements, as Nightmare tried to approach I blocked her path.

"No, you don't love." I said.

"Just one spark. Come on, come on. Aah!" said Twilight, as the spark ignited an explosion and we went flying.

"No, no!" said Nightmare.

But here was nothing.

"But... where's the sixth Element?! and the seventh? we need it now!" exclaimed Twilight.

"You little foals! Thinking you could defeat me? Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! The night will last forever!" laughed Nightmare Moon, I remembered I left my sword in the treehouse...

Then we hear the ponies talking over each other and Barkspawn barking.

Suddenly me and Twilight both realised at the same time.

"You think you can destroy The Elements of Harmony just like that? Well, you're wrong, because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here." said Twilight.

"You can't just destroy something so powerful, just like that, it takes a lot more than that." I said and helped Twilight up.

"What?" asked Nightmare Moon.

"You see, when I heard about the Elements, and that they’re supposed to be rocks, I thought it strange... Than I came across these 5 mares, and when I thought about it, it made sense." I said.

"What made sense?!" asked Nightmare

"For one, Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of... Honesty!" she said.

"I mean, telling somepony to let go of a cliff?! not even bothering to lie saying to just hold on until she fell? that is honesty."

"Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of... Kindness!" said Twilight.

"I like to think everything deserves a second chance, it gives me more hope."  I said.

"Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... Laughter!" said Twilight.

"I'm glad I share this, when you realize, hey, a face on a tree os a face on a tree, trees can't move, so why be scared?" I asked.

"Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... Generosity!" said Twilight.

"I have had to give many things for the life I now lead, but to give a piece of yourself simply for another's happiness? that is true generosity." I said.

"And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire represents the spirit of... Loyalty!" said Twilight.

"I always wanted to be a great warrior when I was a child, if I was approached  as a child to leave my parents and become a warrior, despite my duties I would've said yes in a heartbeat, to say no to something like that when offered, that is unwavering loyalty."

"The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us." said Twilight

"You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work! or the seventh! even when you need it!" exclaimed Nightmare Moon 

"I think, the seventh element is both Order and Patience, you can't have one without the other, although Order is more appropriate, Grey Warden and Barkspawn both worked in tandem to make those two ponies work together and realise their friendship, they are not each Order and Patience, they are one and the same, they are each Order and Patience, or just Order." said Twilight

"Hmm, I see that." I said.

"But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. 
The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... are my friends! You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: the element of... Magic!" said Twilight, suddenly I felt a famailiar sensation as me and Barkspawn were blasted with the Elements, I became a true Maker's Warrior, I pulled out a greatsword made of rainbows, but before I could strike nightmare, Barkspawn stopped me, then I saw something... Inside her, a goodness? it was faint but I concentrated in it and pointed the sword at Nightmare  and blasted her with a beam of Rainbows, using the powers given to me to bring Order to Nightmare Moon.

"Nooo! Nooo!" yelled Nightmare Moon, as the light engulfed me there was an explosion of light and I went flying into the next room.

:5 minutes later:

"Ugh, my head." said Rainbow.

"That felt like a good Friday night, except it wasn't..."I mumbled from the other room.

"Everypony okay?" asked Applejack







"Yo! Warden! where are you?" asked Rainbow and I stumbled out of the room with Barkspawn.

"You both look awesome!" said Rainbow.

"Thanks." I said and noticed my new crown.







I also noticed Barkspawn had black kaddis with the Grey Warden symbol.

"Oh, thank goodness." said Rarity.

"Why Rarity, it's so lovely." complimented Fluttershy.

"I know! I'll never part with it again." said Rarity, looking at her tail.

"No. Your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark." said Fluttershy, I noticed all the girls had one, when I looked down, I saw my Joining amulet which got lost in a fight years ago! it was the Grey Warden double eagle with some Joining blood in it, I put a hoof to it and shut my eyes in slight memory.

"What? Ooh. So does yours." said Rarity and Fluttershy noticed and gasped.

"Look at mine! Look at mine!" exclaimed Pinkie.

:Third Person POV:

"Aw yeah." said Rainbow.

"Gee, Twilight! I thought you and Warden were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but... Say where is Warden?" asked Applejack, all 6 mares looked around until Twilight spotted him walking away with Barkspawn just outside the building.

"Wait!" shouted Twilight and he looked back as she ran full sprint, it was a short distance but she wasn't used to this much running, he raised an eyebrow at her as she reached him and she panted and looked at him nervously.

"What?" he asked in confusion.

"Aren't you staying?" asked Twilight.

"Staying? you want me to stay? usually I just leave after I do something in a town the residents usually feel uncomfortable, although they would never show it." I said.

"Well, just stay a little longer... At least." said Twilight, and Barkspawn gave me puppy eyes.

"Sure." I said with a smile, I may have finally found some friends, maybe I don't have to be so lonely anymore.

We walked back up the castle and saw the other girls waiting.

"I convinced them to stay for now." said Twilight and the girls cheered.

"We apparently represent these Elements of friendship, so we should stick together." said Applejack

"Indeed you do." came another voice, I flinched slightly, but the tone was so calming and motherly... It was amazing.

"Princess Celestia." gasped Twilight and all the girls bowed, I leaned against a wall in the shadows with Barkspawn as I watched events unfurl, truly, I was admiring the Princess sort of, she looked… well there was no other word… beautiful.

"Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student. I knew you could do it." said the Princess.

"But... you told me it was all an old pony tale." said Twilight.

"I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now if only another will as well. Princess Luna!" exclaimed the Princess and I saw that Nightmare had turned into a small blue mare, another Alicorn. 

I heard her gasp.

“It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister.” Said Princess Celestia.

“Sister?” asked the girls.

“Will you accept my friendship?” asked the Princess to her sister.

“Whoa!” said Pinkie who had been leaning forward in interest and fell over.

“I'm so sorry! I missed you so much, big sister!” said Princess Luna who was crying and hugged her sister.

“I've missed you, too.” Said Princess Celestia happily

“Ahem, Princess, this is King Grey Warden, he is the ruler of land very far away.” Said Twilight and I stepped forward.

“Merely a humble citizen right now your majesty, this my faithful Mabari, Barkspawn.” I said and bowed my head slightly in recognition of her status as did Barkspawn.

Then she full on bowed to me!

“It is always a pleasure to have a visitor to our land, especially royalty, I would like you to come to the palace later where we can talk.” Said the Princess and I nodded.

“Of course Princess.” I said.

“Hey, you know what this calls for?” asked Pinkie.

“Do tell.” I smiled.

“A party!” exclaimed Pinkie and we appeared in Ponyville with music.

I simply observed, never let your guard down, the Princesses arrived by carriage and Luna was looking sad when a wreath was placed around her neck, they asked if me and Barkspawn wanted to ride in the carriage but we declined, we preferred the life of adventurers now.

I writ in my codex something on Princess Celestia and Luna, and updated the girls' and put them all in a new category: The Mare 6 & the Elements of Harmony. And created another category named: Ponies, for general information and individuals I meet and I made some notes about my new Templar powers as I saw Spike greet Twilight with a hug.

“Watching hmm?” asked the Princess from behind me as I finished writing and I nodded, I heard her coming the moment she set hoof in my direction.

“Yes.“ I replied.

“You still think about war? I know that look, you are searching for danger.” said the Princess.

“Unfortunately, don’t worry, I won’t bring harm to anypony unless they bring harm to me.” I said.

“I see, I was like that at first, when peace first reigned in Equestria. ‘where is the next threat?’ I wondered. ‘it could be around every or any corner, it could be anywhere’ but eventually I learned that the last of ponies who remembered war… died out, and so I had to forget.” She explained.

“Where I’m from… I was born into nobility, but I still saw my share of wars, hell, my dad fought to liberate us from slavers that had occupied more than 100 years.” I said.

“We had a similar problem here long ago, it was just before we were born, they fought them back and reclaimed their crowns, Luna and I’s parents, we wondered where the slavers went but our parents didn’t know, they must have retreated to your country for safety and in the commotion your parents rebelled.” Said Princess Celestia.

“Makes sense.“ I said 

"I always used to watch everypony that I could see with a critical eye, wondering what threat they possessed, but luckily I got out of that habit but I never completely let my guard down." said the Princess.

"Maker knows we've been taught enough by life..." I said and she nodded, I really like the Princess, unlike the Empress, who was more concerned with the Game than her Nation's security.

"So, are you enjoying yourself?" asked the Princess

"Indubitably, but Twilight seems quite conflicted, shall we see what is wrong?" I asked and she nodded.

"Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can return to your studies in Canterlot?" asked Princess Celestia.

"That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them." she said sadly.

"Spike, take a note, please. I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new mission for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville. And Grey Warden shall join her, hopefully bringing news of our nation back to his own, and bringing new knowledge of magic to his nation and we can open up relations!" announced the Princess.

The girls cheered. 

"Oh thank you, Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before." said Twilight.

"Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend - or a meaningful day." I said.

"Wise words." said Celestia.

"Yeah well... Now lets break out the kegs!" I exclaimed.

"Isn't this exciting? Are you excited cause I'm excited I've never been so excited, well, except for the time that I went [gasp] but I mean really-" Pinkie stopped as I held a hoof over her mouth.

"Pinkie, enjoy the party." I said.

She nodded enthusiatically and bounced away.

The rest of the night went fine, the alcohol could barely be called alcohol and was weaker than a Hurlock Grunt.

I fell asleep on the floor of the library.