The Long Night

Recollections

Shining Armor lounged on one of the half dozen seating cushions that where tossed around in Cadance’s room at the top of the aptly named Love Tower, one of Canterlot Castle’s tallest structures. It had become progressively difficult to maintain the shield over the entire city over the course of the week, and he was eager to relax and spend a little time with Cadance before reinforcing his spell for the last time that evening. Leaning back, he started to count the tiles on the ceiling, his tired eyes becoming more and more difficult to focus on the room around him. I’ll just wait here till she gets back. She said she would meet me here with a surprise after she finished her meeting… he bolted upright as the door to the room slammed shut. To his surprise, the room was dark now. It had to have been hours since he sat down, had he fallen asleep?

“Oh Shining Armor! Where are you?” He heard a click, and he jumped a little as light filled the room. I forgot they added those electric lights to the private rooms.
“Hey, Cadance! I was waiting for you, I thought you’d be back before dark…” His eyes went wide, as he became fully alert. “The Shield!” he cried as he rushed out the door.

“Shining!” Cadance scowled. “What are you doing?! I just came back! How could you run out on me like that?”

Shining Armor looked back inside at his bride-to-be. “Sorry Cadance, but I need to reapply my shield spell to the city. I missed my window earlier, the shield could fail at any time!”

“Fine. Hurry up and come back inside, I want to show you something.” Shining armor sighed.
“Yes, dear. This will only take a second.”

Looking up at the bubble of magic surrounding the city, he pointed his horn at the very peak. Reaching into his magic stream, he held the shield spell in his mind and focused on redirecting the magic that flowed throughout his whole body out through his horn, with the spell acting as a filter that manifested the desired effect. His horn lit up as magic shot up into the top of the shield, causing the entire thing to ripple for a second before settling back into the smooth sphere it was supposed to be. Smiling, Shining Armor took a moment to look for weak points in his spell.

“Shining! Come On!”

“Coming!”

Inside, Shining Armor saw Cadance laying sidewise on her bed, her hind legs dangling just off the edge as she propped up her head with her for hooves, looking down at an open book. She patted the bed beside her without looking at him. He jumped from the doorway directly onto the bed, bouncing both her and the book into the air.

“Eek!” She reflexively beat her wings and floated above the bed, frowning down at him. “What was that for?”

“Oh, lighten up Cadance! We haven’t seen each other at all this week! Come down here and snuggle!”

“Right. We haven’t seen each other, have we?”

She huffed and slowly lowered herself down onto the bed. As soon as she hit the sheets, Shining Armor wrapped her in a full body hug and nuzzled her. “I believe you promised me a surprise?”

“I did.” she reached over and slid the book over in front of them. Flipping it open, she revealed its contents: A bevy of pictures of a much younger Shining Armor, dressed in his cadet uniform.

“My mom’s scrapbook?” he flipped through the pages, glancing at the memories contained within. “This is your big surprise?”

“No, I got this so that we could sit here while you talk about yourself for hours! Surprise!” Cadance gave him one of the most insincere smiles he’d ever seen, which was weird, because even when Cadance forced a smile, which was rare, she could do it much more convincingly then most ponies Shining knew.

“Oh. Uh, okay. If that’s what you want. I mean, you already know pretty much everything about me that matters.”

“Well, yes, but I want to hear it again! From the pony that I love most! Leave nothing out!” Flipping back to the first page, she pointed to a young Shining Armor standing at attention looking off at some indeterminate point. “I assume this was your first day as a recruit?”

“That one was taken the day I left for the academy. I was about to leave the house for the train station when Mom insisted she get one more picture in…”

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“Aaaaannnnnddddd I think that’s the one! Okay, Shining, you can move now!”

Shining Armor let out a sigh of relief. His mother had been trying to get the perfect picture for almost half an hour, which had cut into his attempt to get ahead of schedule. He still had a couple of stops to make before heading over to the Canterlot train station, and now he wasn’t sure he would have enough time for everything.

“Thanks mom. Well, if we’re finished, I really need to get moving. I have to make a couple of stops on the way. I’ll meet you there.” He heard a little giggle behind him.

“Why such a hurry, BBBFF? Going to see somepony special?” He turned to see his sister Twilight standing with Spike, who was struggling to hold his saddlebags off the ground. She levitated them out of his claws and onto her brothers back, making sure they were secure. Shining Armor just grinned.

“I have a couple of places to go, Twily.”

“None of which involve answering my question, apparently.”

“Maybe he’s too scared to go by himself, that’s why he needs a foalsitter.” Spike teased. Twilight Velvet laughed at her younglings antics.

“Now, now, Twilight, if Shining wants to play shy, we’ll let him. After all, we can always get the story later from a certain somepony, right?” she winked at her children. Shining blushed as Twilight and Spike cackled at their brother’s expense. Velvet embraced him and whispered to her eldest son “Don’t worry about them, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get back at them in the future.”

Slightly less mortified, Shining Armor hugged his mom and left the little townhouse where he grew up. It was a little two story, three bedroom, one bathroom house, with a floor plan and color scheme that was exactly the same as dozens of others in Canterlot; but to him, the little wooden house addressed #0002 Tim Buck Trail, Canterlot, would always be home. He took a deep breath and stepped into the busy street, moving purposely through the crowd. It was rush hour in the city, and he knew that his first stop would already be crowded when he got there. After all, Joe’s Donuts was one of the more popular breakfast restaurants in the city. Unfortunately for Shining, his intuition was spot on. The little shop had a line out the door. Deciding he needed breakfast more then he needed to make his next stop, he decided to forego the Flaxseed Jerky he was planning to stock up on and stepped into the line. To his surprise, as soon as he was inside the door, he saw Old Joe point to him and wave him to the countertop. Cutting past the line, he was even more surprised when Old Joe Dropped a paper bag with a half dozen chocolate cream donuts onto the counter in front of him.
“There ya go, Shining Armor! I packed them up fresh this morning for ya.”

“Thanks Joe. I guess it wasn’t hard to figure out what I would order, right? Let me get you your bits…”

“Take your donuts and git, boy, can’t you see I’m busy here?”

“But Joe-,“

“Don’t give me any lip, boy! You think I can’t afford to do something nice for one of my best customers these past five years? One who’s joining the Guard? I know from my time there that they don’t provide creature comforts like donuts. In my day it seemed getting good food at all was too much trouble. Just promise me you’ll visit often after you get back, or at least bring your siblings here for a treat and you’ll more than pay me back.” Without waiting for a reply, the Old Stallion returned to the register and took the order of yet another impatient pony. Shining Armor sheepishly tucked the donuts into his saddle bags and left in high spirits. Seeing how procuring his breakfast had gone much quicker than he had anticipated, he decided that he had time to pick up some of his favorite dried snack before heading to his last stop, He just had to skip his normal banter with the shopkeeper.

The jerky store was several blocks away from the donut shop, and Shining had more than enough time to eat his breakfast while walking. The mare who owned the place had taken it off the hooves of some crank who was old before his time and had built up a reputation as a particularly unpleasant character. As a result, when she’d purchased the store and the old man’s secret recipe, she’d hung a sign outside that read “Under new management. Get the same great jerky without the Jerk!” Most of the time, Shining would pretend to wonder aloud just how truthful the advertisement was, and the mare would pretend to scowl and say he could keep his bits and his hungry belly to himself, where upon Shining would beg and pled and haggle until they settled on a price that was, coincidently, the same as the listed price. Today, however, he approached the counter silently, bits at the ready.

"Morning, Shining.”

“Good morning, Mrs. Flaxen.”

“Why you’re a polite pony this morning! Your mother finally straighten you out?”

“Just busy, I’m afraid. I’m off for the military academy.”

“I know you are. In fact, your friend who was in here earlier left you a note, though he seemed to think that you would be here later then now. Said you’d be running out the door trying to catch a train.” She handed him a note and a small sack of jerky.

Shiny Boi,

I knew you’d be running late today, so I took the liberty of saving you a hassle and paying for your food in advance. You better make the train, I’m going to be stealing from your stash onboard. – Barrel Roll

He dropped the note in the trash and stowed the jerky. “Thanks Mrs. Flaxen. For once he’s not 100% off, I am in a hurry.”

“Well, come back safe alright? It’s not often I get to practice my haggling anymore, you Canterlot ponies are too easy, just paying what’s on the sticker.

“If you are practicing, I’d expect you to get better at it after all this time.”

“Who says I’m not getting exactly what I want each and every time?” Flaxen’s eyes gleamed. “At any rate, take care, Shining!” He waved goodbye as he trotted out of the store and down the slightly less crowded street. His last stop was not on the way to the station. In fact where he was going was almost half as far again from his house to the station, but it was by far the most important stop on his list. Why she’d wanted to meet in the castle gardens, Shining had no clue, but he had a pass token and was on the list of trusted ponies, so getting in and out quickly shouldn’t be an issue.

Coming to the entrance to the castle grounds, Shining gave his name and pass token to the guards outside. They checked his name and description on the list, then took his token and waved him through the gate. Once inside, Shining picked the pace, searching for his target. After several minutes, he finally found her.

Two ponies, one light blue, the other pink, sat together in the garden, both hunched over the same unseen object sitting on their laps in front of them. One of them was a Pegasus with a lithe build and prim wings, the edge of a small camera cutie mark on her flank. The other was Cadance, the graceful Alicorn princess of Love. Very aware of the unseen guards watching his every move, Shining Armor walked up silently behind the two mares until he was close enough to hear them whispering to each other, then cleared his throat.

The two winged mares spun around to look at him, and he relished the gleam in the eyes of his crush as she saw him.
“Shining!” exclaimed Picture Perfect as she half tackled, half hugged him. He laughed as he deftly caught her using both his body and his magic to redirect the force of the blow and spin her to a stop. “I’m so glad you could come! The princess and I finished our photo shoot about 20 minutes ago, I was hoping we could talk before you left for the academy.” She turned back to Cadance and bowed. “With your permission, Princess, if there’s nothing else you’d like done, I would love to see my friend before he leaves.”

Cadance smiled at the pair of young lovebirds. “No, that’s quite alright, Picture. I have more than enough for today, and I certainly will not interfere in your plans with your “friend” before we send him away for months. Perhaps you can bring the developed photos to my room this weekend?”

“That would be fabulous. May I have a token?”

“Of course.” Cadance held up a hoof and focused intently on it. As her horn lit up, a swirl of magic began to spin tight circles just above it. Then, with a small pop, a silver coin slightly larger than a bit that shimmered with magic fell into her hoof. Cadance smiled, then leaned in and whispered “Picture Mary Perfect.” The surface of the coin rippled for a second, then reformed with Picture’s full name engraved around the edge. Cadance handed the coin to Picture, who went to tuck it into her saddlebags along with her equipment. Then Cadence turned to face Shining. “Hello Shining Armor. How is Twilight?”

“She’s well, your majesty. She misses seeing you as often as she did when she was a little filly.”

“I miss her too. She understands why I don’t visit often anymore, doesn’t she?”

“Of course she does. Apparently though, she did try to argue with Princess Celesita that her edict regarding you only sitting for foals who don’t have their cutie mark yet was, well, let’s just say she thought it was foolish. I swear, I think my sister could convince the Princess to make her Royalty, if Princess Celestia doesn’t banish her first.”

“I don’t know if will make you feel better or worse, but I know Celestia feels the same way.”

“It doesn’t, but thanks for trying.”

“Anytime.” Picture Perfect strode over to stand besides Shining, her saddlebags bulging. “Ready to go?” he asked.

“Yep.” Picture Perfect smirked at Cadance. “By the way, Princess, I going to make sure to bring my picture of Twilight holding her sign she made for me that says Perfect is Best in bold lettering this weekend.” Cadance smiled. Not a happy smile, more that of a prankster who realized that somepony was about to wander into their trap.

“Now, Picture, You know Twilight would never betray me.”

“Who knows where her loyalties lie? All I’m saying is that it’s going to happen.” She turned to Shining Armor. “You would know. Who’s her favorite sitter?”

All of a sudden, Shining felt very uncomfortable around two ponies he considered his friends. “Umm… I don’t think I should get involved.” The problem was, Cadance was Twilights favorite sitter, hooves down, not even close. Not that Picture was bad sitter, but she’d started sitting for Twilight when she was older, and not nearly as frequently as Cadence had when Twilight was younger and his parents had full time jobs. But if he said that, Picture might be mad he didn’t back up her assertion. On the other hoof, it was a bad idea to lie to somepony who would technically be his boss, and would certainly find out the truth eventually.

He noticed Cadance was looking at him with an intensity that strangely intimate, like she was looking into his soul. Then she sat up straighter and looked him in the eye. “Don’t answer that, Private Armor.”

Picture Perfect was flabbergasted. “Hey! You can’t tell him what he can or can’t say! According to the Foundational Decree, not even a Princess can compel somepony to speak or not speak outside of legal proceedings!”

“Ah, but there is an exception for ponies entrusted with the secrets of the Crown, and as a guard, Shining Armor technically falls into that category. I can, as his commanding officer, order him not to speak so as not to jeopardize his relationships. Both that between his Princess, and that of his “Friend.” She looked Picture. “Tell me, who should he agree with, You, or Me? His Boss, or his Special Somepony.”

Picture shuffled uncomfortably. “Well, I guess when you put it that way…” She looked up. “I don’t need his help to get that picture anyways. I’ll bring it on Saturday.”

“You do that.”

From behind Picture Perfect Shining mouthed a silent “Thank You” to Cadance. Then he touched Picture’s shoulder and started walking to the exit. She walked beside him in silence, the two close enough for their flanks to brush against each other. After leaving the grounds, Shining broke the awkward silence. “Hey Picture?”

“Yeah?”

“I was thinking on my over here… I’m going to be leaving everyone except Barrel Roll behind when I leave. I was hoping that you wouldn’t mind if I wrote a letter to you every week? I don’t need a reply to all of them, I just wanted to make sure that I wasn’t bothering you.”

Picture mulled over what Shining Armor had said. “I don’t know Shining, I don’t think I can cram in an essay every week into my schedule. My photography business is really taking off, especially with the all the work I’m getting from the Princess recently. I just don’t think I can handle a long letter every week.”

Shining’s heart sank, his mouth suddenly dry. “I understa-“

“Maybe if I set a few conditions, I might, might read them.”

“Really?”

“Let’s see, they need to be kept short. Real short. Let’s say 250.”

“Words?”

“Letters.”

“What?”

“And every message needs to be sent by Dragonfire, no Airmail.”

“Picture, it costs-“

“And when I decide to respond, you need to message me back within an hour, or I won’t bother reading them anymore, got it?” Shining Armor rounded angrily on his friend.

“If you’re going to demand I treat you like you’re-“ He stopped when he saw the expression of barely contained laughter stretched across her face. “Oh.” His ears flattened and his face flushed, embarrassed at not seeing through the teasing. They stood nose to nose for a few seconds, looking at each other. Then she smiled and touched his shoulder.

“Shining, I would love anything you sent me while you are away. I don’t mind at all.”

“You’re certain?”

“Of course. I do have one condition, though. For real this time.”

“What is it?”

“Promise me you’ll read all of my letters to you.”

Shining Armor gave her a goofy smile. “I don’t know, Perfect. I’m going to be really, really busy with drills and training- “She punched his shoulder. “Ow! Fine, if you’re going to beat me otherwise, then I’ll do it, I guess.”

“Perfect.” She started a brisk trot towards the Canterlot Station. “You still going or what? It’s almost time to board!”

“Yeah, I’m coming.” Shining took a deep breath, the city air somehow seemed just a little sweeter today. Then with a spring in his step he ran towards his destiny.

Shining Armor looked over to Cadance, who was preening her wing feathers. “You knew at the time, right?”

“Of course I knew, darling,” she purred, “I always knew how you felt about me.”

“What? No, in the garden, you knew that technically ponies aren’t considered Guards until they sign their Oath at the Academy, right?”

“Oh, that. Of course.”

“I wasn’t sure if you knew that at the time, but I wasn’t going to speak up and ruin my excuse not to say anything.” Shining Armor rolled over onto his back, looking at his fiancee. “I’m curious, why did you stop me from speaking that day?” Cadance looked away, her mane hiding her eyes, her lips pursed as she thought about her answer.

“I wasn’t certain you would say I was the best, and I didn’t want to risk being embarrassed in front of my crush, so I decided to play it safe and keep you from answering at all. That way, everypony could save face.” Shining nodded.

“That makes sense.” He was closing the book when Cadance surprised him by reaching over and blocking him.

“We only covered the first page! There’s so much more to go over!”

“It’s late, I still have my regular duties in addition to maintaining the Shield. Why don’t we turn in for the night?”

“Please, let’s just go over a couple of pages, then we’ll go to bed.” She fluttered her eyelashes at Shining, who felt his resistance melting away.

“Okay. A couple of more.”

Shining settled into the soft mattress of Cadance’s bed and sighed. He had a feeling this was going to be a long night.

The Train To Nowhere

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Looking down at the page, Shining Armor silently cursed his mother’s instinct to add embellishments to every one of her craft projects. A large, wide angle picture filled the center of the page, with lace hearts and what were clearly tear drops littering the border. In the picture, Shining Armor stood next to his best friend in the whole world, Barrel Roll, in front of the train that would take them both to Camp Nowhere for initiation into the guard. Shining Armor was standing in the middle of his family, Spike and Twilight clinging to his legs while his father, Night Light, was trying to calm down his distraught mother. Opposite them stood two jet black pegasi. The younger one had a pure white mane, his cutie mark a tendril of clouds that spiraled around a stylized tower. He stood awkwardly next to the second, older Pegasus that was solid black, only his pink irises adding any color to his palette. His cutie mark was obscured by the purple and gold armor of a Captain of the Guard.
He looked over at Cadence, who was eyeing the guardspony with suspicion.

“Is that-“

“Yeah. Black Baron. My predecessor.”

“I did not realize Barrel Roll was his son.”

“Barrel Roll and his father have always been a little distant with each other. I think Barrel was afraid that if everypony knew who his father was, they would see him as some military brat breezing through the ranks on his father’s name.” He rubbed his temples as he thought about how many of his officers had clearly achieved their position through nepotism rather than competence or service record. “An accusation with no small level of merit in the Guard these days, unfortunately.”

“And yet rumors abound that Black Baron recommended you, not his son, take over when he retired.”

“Black Baron never-,” he hesitated, choosing his words carefully, “I don’t have any knowledge about what Black Baron said to Celestia or why he recommended me. Barrel is an excellent Guard, I would have gladly served under his command.”

“And how does he feel about your promotion?”

“He congratulated me when we found out.”

“Well, he couldn’t very well say ‘Buck You’ to his new boss, now could he?”

Shining Armor didn’t answer. He studied the photo some more, his memories of the day flowing through him with greater clarity then they had in years.

“Dear, please, you’re embarrassing the boy.” Night Light’s words did not have the intended effect, instead causing Velvet to sob louder.

“I’m sorry, baby! I’m sorry!” Night Light looked around at all the ponies staring at Velvet with looks ranging from sympathy to disgust and rubbed her back soothingly.

“Dear, why don’t you go to the bathroom and clean up a bit, then we’ll say goodbye, okay?” She nodded and stumbled off in the general direction of the public facilities. Meanwhile, Shining Armor was going back and forth prying his siblings off his legs, who would cling to him again while he worked at getting the other off.

“Hey, dad? A little help?”

Night Light grabbed Spike and pulled him off, careful not to let his claws accidentally scratch Shining, while Shining Armor used both his magic and his hooves to break his sisters telekinetic grip on his leg. “Twily-“

“No! We’re coming with you!” She squeezed tight enough that he started to lose feeling in his leg. “You’ll be killed for sure! You need us!”

“But-”

“No! I won’t let you get hurt! I’ll save you!”

“Twily, it’s against the rules for fillies to join the guard, remember?” Her grip relaxed slightly.

“Oh. Right.” She slide off his leg and looked at him, tears welling up in her eyes. “But what if you get into trouble?”

“Well then I know you and Spike will come rescue me, of course! But you’ll have to work hard and learn everything you can from Princess Celestia so that you can do that. Can you do that for me?” Twilight rolled her eyes.

“I know what you’re trying to do! You do know that that I’m currently studying psychology and sociology with the Princess, right? This is basic redirection of cognition.”

“You just made that up.”

“Did not! And I’ll prove it to you. Spike, help me find my textbook!” She inverted her saddlebag, dumping its contents unceremoniously on the floor in the middle of the waiting crowd. Chuckling to himself, Shining Armor turned and looked at Barrel Roll and Black Baron. The crowd stood away from the Captain and his son as they had what was clearly an animated, if still whispered discussion. Deciding he wasn’t going to get involved, Shining walked over to Picture Perfect, who was standing in the same spot she’d been when she had taken the group photo. She smiled as he approached.

“Did you get the picture you needed?”

“Your mother will love it.” She looked back at Shining’s family, where Night Light was scolding his children for creating a tripping hazard on the platform, “Though I suppose she would love almost anything with the three of you in it.”

“That’s probably true.” He checked the station clock. Less than five minutes to departure. “On the topic of my mother…. Well, she’s going to be having a hard time with me being gone till the break during Hearth’s Warming. Is there any way you can check in with her occasionally, make sure she’s doing ok?”

“Of course. It’s certainly not a problem, your mom is pretty nice. She always wants to make me food whenever I’m there, though. I think she likes me or something.” She gave him a sly smile that set loose a thousand butterflies in his stomach, then she leaned in to hug him and whispered, “And in case you missed it earlier, Cadance called me your special somepony, so here’s a hint for when you get back.” Then she kissed him, and Shining’s world turned upside down and inside out for a couple of seconds. His knees shook, and he staggered back, a goofy smile on his face. He heard some of the ponies around him, including some of his family talking to him, laughing, or cheering, but it didn’t matter. Though he was a unicorn, he felt like he could launch off the ground and soar all the way to Cloudsdale.

“Earth to Shining, come in! Let’s go Shiny!” He felt somepony shove him forward, and Shining Armor’s spirit returned to his body. Behind him stood Barrel Roll, shoulder to rump, pushing him forward using his powerful wings to leverage the breeze. As he stumbled forward, he felt his mother wrap him in an embrace, her head buried in his neck.

“Promise me you’ll be ok.”

“Everything will be fine, mom. You’ll see.” She let go with a sigh and a small sniffle, then stepped back for Night Light, who hugged him and gave him his saddlebags back.

“We’re all proud of you, son. Try not to get hurt, for all our sake, okay?”

“I’ll try.”

“Good.” Shining walked past Night Light to Twilight and Spike, who looked him with sad puppy eyes.

“You’ll write to us, won’t you?”

“I promise.” The three hugged for a brief second, then Barrel Roll tapped him on the shoulder.

“It’s time to go.”

Shining Armor released his siblings, then steeled himself and marched onto the waiting train, his head held high. The pair found a seat in the middle of the last car of the train, and tossed their bags under their seats just as the doors slide shut and the train started to move. Looking out the window, he could see dozens of ponies, including his family and Picture waving at the train as it pulled out of the station. Black Baron was nowhere to be seen.

“You bring the jerky?”

“Yeah, it’s in the left pocket.”

Barrel Roll dragged Shining’s bag over with his wings, then reached down and pulled out the sack that Flaxen had given Shining earlier in the day. “You get the note I left you?”

“I did. Thanks for thinking about that, but it wasn’t really necessary.”

“Gave you enough time to see your marefriend, didn’t it?” He took a bite of the Flaxseed jerky.

“Technically, she’s not-“

“Everypony saw you guys kiss at the station, you know. I’m pretty sure that’s more than technical.”

“It’s not, actually, not according to the strict definition.” Barrel rolled his eyes, “Ok, Twilight. You know, some days I can barely tell you two are related, and some days I wonder why I would ever think you weren’t.”

“I imagine everyone smarter then you sounds similar. It’s amazing you don’t get more confused.” Barrel chucked a piece of flaxseed at Shining, who causally deflected it with a saucer sized shield.

“You were dumb enough for me to convince you to join the guard with me," said Barrel Roll between bites. "You could have gotten a job working for your dad. You had it easy, and yet here you are.”

“I’d rather work for yours, frankly.”

“I wouldn’t, but it looks like I won’t have a choice.”

“You didn’t have to become a guard, you know.”

“Yeah, and neither did my father, or my grandfather, or my great-great-whatever grandfather, but they did, and so am I.” Barrel Roll sighed and returned the flaxseed jerky. “What else was I going to do? My dad never taught me how to do anything else. How could he? It’s all he knows.”

They rode in silence, lost in their thoughts. After a while the rhythmic back and forth sway of the train eased Shining into a half-dream where he was at a picnic with Picture Perfect on a cloud, laughing and talking about his little sister. In his mind’s eye, Perfect giggled each time he made a stupid joke and kept batting her eyelashes at him while he told her about The Market Incident. As he was finishing the story, Perfect started to lean in towards him, that same sly smile on her face that she’d had at the station. He closed his eyes, waiting for the kiss, and was suddenly jostled from his daydream by a big brown-orange pegasus that flopped down on the seat next to him.

“Is this seat taken?”

“Would it matter?” Shining muttered as the pegasus tossed his saddlebag on the floor and stretched his wings. A green earth pony who was a fair bit older than most of the recruits and wearing a Stetson and boots sat down carefully next to Barrel Roll, who was asleep. Without so much as a word, he produced a rag from seemingly nowhere, kicked off his boots, and started to shine them.

“Um, sure, it’s cool if you guys sit here. “

“Great! I’m Spear Head, and this dude here is Yellow Cake.” The green pony tipped his hat. “Dude, that Flaxseed jerky I smell?”

“…Maybe…”

“Dude, can I get some? I’m famished right now”

“Sure, why not?” Shining Armor levitated the bag up and pulled out a single piece. As soon as he had it in hoof, Spear Head took the bag and started shoveling food into his muzzle.

“Mm, this stuff is great! Who’s your supplier?”

“Uhhh, local business in Canterlot.”

“Canterlot! I love it. It looked so cool as I was flying in. Too bad I didn’t get to see more of it or talk to anypony.”

“Wait, what day did you fly in?”

“I just told you dude! I landed perfectly. Last pony to board.” He elbowed Shining’s ribs, “Though I was just in time to see you macking on some chick! First time too! Score!” Shining blushed and covered his eyes.

“Was it really that obvious to everypony?” Yellow Cake grinned.

“Yup.” His drawl was thick and smooth as molasses.

Shining Armor groaned. This calls for a tactical withdraw. Clearing his throat, he looked at the odd pair and asked, “so, what made you guys decide to join the guard?”

Spear Head swallowed and handed Yellow Cake a much lighter sack.

“Got tired of my stepdad always yelling at me for shaping his furniture when he wasn’t using it or not coming home exactly when he told me to, stuff like that. I was ready to move out anyways, so I packed my bags and flew to Fillydelphia. One of my friends there has a dad who joined a long time ago, said it was great when he was 'young, dumb, and full of cum.' Had a lot of adventures apparently. Met his wife, though he didn’t say how. And best of all, they feed and house you while they pay you to stand around!” He crossed his forelegs behind his head and leaned back in his seat. “It’s, like, the perfect job.” Cake took a single piece out of the sack and returned it to Shining Armor with a nod.

“Work dried up,” he said matter-of-fact. “Had to eat. You?” Shining took the much diminished snack and tucked it into to his bag.

“I’ve wanted to be a guard for as long as I can remember. Since I was a little colt, all I wanted to do was protect my family and friends. Plus, my special talent is creating magic shields, so it seemed a good fit for me.”

“Whoa. That’s deep, dude. I mean, it’s like your dream. That’s awesome.” Spear Head noticed the bit of flax jerky that Barrel Roll had tossed at Shining Armor earlier and scooped it up and popped it into his mouth.

“So how does a city colt like you come to have a shield talent?” Yellow Cake asked pointedly, “Doesn’t seem like it would come up much, what with the guards everywhere.”

“We have our share of rough ponies around, hence the guards, but that actually isn’t how I discovered my talent. When I was little, after my sister was born, my dad used to feed her oatmeal for breakfast, and she hated oatmeal. She’d scream and thrash about and throw her food every time dad fed it to her. I guess once upon a time, dad learned a quickshield spell for his job, some kind of safety precaution, and whenever my sister would throw food, he’d use it to keep from getting covered in babyfood. So one day I was trying to imitate him while pretending to feed her, and my father thought it was so cute that he decided to teach me a simple shield spell to use while we played pretend.

“Eventually I got it down, though the most use I ever got out of it was to try and get out of bathtime. Anyways, a couple of years later, mom decided to take me along with her when she went up to visit Canterlot Castle and Princess Celestia. She had some kind of ticket or prize that she used that day that was good for a short meeting with the princess, so we went in at the end of one of Princess Celestia’s royal court sessions and we got to wait at the back of the room close to the throne itself. So I’m sitting there quietly while the Princess was giving her advice to somepony, when all of a sudden I heard shouting from the hallway at the front of the room. The doors to the throne room flew open, and there’s this unicorn standing there with his horn glowing and looking right at Princess Celestia.

“They both started shouting at each other. Then he starts walking towards her, all the while looking super pissed. That’s when one of the guards tries to grab him, and he just looks at the guard and poof! The guard was gone. That’s when I got really scared. I was worried that he was going to do that to my mom, so I tried to make the biggest shield I could between him and us.” Shining Armor looked around the train carriage. “The whole thing probably wasn’t much bigger than the side of this car, but it was positioned between him and my mom, and by extension Princess Celestia. As soon as it was cast, I earned my cutie mark.” He pointed to his flank before continuing.

“And while the shield wouldn’t have stopped him, I think it shocked him that a colt had intervened between him and the Princess, because the room got real quiet all of a sudden, then Celestia flew up over the shield and blasted him right off his feet.” He took a bite of his snack, then continued. “After that, things went crazy. Me and mom were rushed out of the throne room, four guards grabbed the unicorn, and Princess Celestia was staring at me when we left. I thought I was in trouble, but then she came in and talked to my mother and she seemed like she wasn’t angry at all, so I just assume she wasn’t happy that I risked myself like that when she was clearly safe from anything that unicorn could do.” Shining Armor sighed and settled into his seat. “So yeah, that’s my story, more or less. Getting my mark only made me want to go into the guard even more, to use my talent to help ponies all across Equestria.”

“Well, that’s a hay of a story if ever I heard one.”

“It’s incredible, dude! What did the Princess say to you when you meet?”

“Not much, really. She asked me if I was okay, and told me I was a very brave and very special pony.”

“And what, pray tell, did you say?”

“Nothing. I was pretty intimidated by her, so I just hid behind my mom until they were done talking.”

“No shame, bro. I’d feel the same after the Princess just roasted some guy.”

“What about him?” Yellow Cake asked, pointing to Barrel Roll, who stirred slightly. “What’s his story?”

“That’s Barrel Roll, my best friend. His dad’s in the guard. In fact, his whole family has been going back, well, forever.”

Some part of Barrel’s mind must have picked up on his name being spoken, because at that moment he rubbed his eyes and sat up. “Ugh. We there yet?”

“Not yet dude.” Spear Head held out a hoof. “Name’s Spear Head. This dude here says you’re his bestie?”

Barrel looked at the extended hoof for a moment, then shook it. “That’s right. We’re old pals, friends since we were colts.” He looked at Yellow Cake, “and you are…”

“Cake. Yellow Cake.” He nodded to Shining Armor. “Seems you got an interesting friend here, Mr. Roll.”

“Only till you get to know him.” He suppressed a yawn and stretched, then looked out the window. “Looks like we’ll be there in an hour or so.”

“You been here before?”

“Dozens of times with my dad. He comes out here to help with training once a month and he usually brought me with him.”

“Right on, dude.”

“Anything we should know ‘fore we get there?”

“Well they don’t call it Camp Nowhere for nothing. The whole place is military personal only, with few exceptions. That includes some food production, so I hope you ground pounders have strong backs.” He looked over at Spear Head. “You should try for the weather management team. If you’re any good, we’ll be flying patrols and busting clouds while these two sweat.”

Cake adjusted his hat. “Figured we’d be too busy learn’en how to fight to deal with busy work like farm’in.”

“Dad tells the troops it promotes teamwork and comradery among the guards.” Barrel Roll huffed, “That’s a load of horseshit. The real reason is because years ago Celestia cut funding to the military again, to the point we were concerned that we wouldn’t have enough bits to buy enough equipment for everypony, so the choice was made instead to grow our own food and appropriate the savings for arms and armor.”

“That’s… mighty concerning.” Cake mused for a second, then spoke up. “Makes nothin’ but sense to me, though. They told us at my last job they were shut’in us down ‘cause of shifting financial priorities. I didn’t believe them then, but if what you say’s is true, then I suppose the military needs those bits elsewhere.”

“Where did you work?” Shining Armor asked.

“I was a civilian staff at a little military facility out in the Applaloosa desert. I doubt you’ve heard of it.” He reached into his saddlebag and pulled out a long strand of barley wheat, stuck the end in his mouth and started to chew on it thoughtfully. “Point is, if they actually didn’t have enough money to keep us runnin, I’m wonderin’ if I should’a picked a different career.”

Shining Armor nodded. “No worries there. One of the first liabilities to be paid out by the treasury is the Guard wages, so if you sign your name, you’ll get paid.”

“Good enough for me, bro.” Spear Head reached into his bags and pulled out a deck of cards. “Anypony else up for a game?”

**********************************************************************************************

The train station at Camp Nowhere was nothing to write home about, mostly because Shining Armor wouldn’t have described it as a train station at all. A single shack stood in the midst of a clearing of the low brush that was everywhere in the Equestrian interior. No platform, no ticket booth, just a single guardpony in a covered shelter and a dirt path that led to the base of the nearby foothills.

Shining Armor disembarked with the rest of the recruits as several struggled with over sized luggage bags. He’d been warned by Barrel Roll ahead of time of the trek, so he’s packed light using a space compression spell that Twilight had learned during her tutelage for his essentials. He looked at the winding path ahead of them and grimaced. I don’t envy anypony who brought a suitcase. In the distance, he could see a dozen smoke columns that indicated fires for heat or cooking amidst what appeared to be over sized wood cabins.

“Let’s get going,” said Barrel Roll. “We don’t want to get stuck at the back of the line for processing.”

The path was largely made of mud from rain the previous night, making the trek to the encampment much dirtier and more difficult than it appeared. Trudging through the mud, Shining started to think of home and what everyone would be doing at that moment. His parents, having taken the day off, would probably both be picking up Twilight from her afternoon session with the Princess. Picture Perfect was no doubt in her dark room, developing the pictures she’d taken earlier in the day of Princess Cadence, Black Baron was on duty somewhere, probably on patrol above the city. Old Joe would no doubt be cleaning and getting the shop ready for the afternoon rush of students who’d be looking for some sugar to get them through their studies. He looked up at the entrance to Camp Nowhere, seeing two guards posted on either side of a gate through a short wooden palisade. Just inside the gates were several stalls with officers and stacks of papers piled all the way to their ears. Walking over to one of the stalls, he proceeded to sign away every right to decency and every expectation of kindness that years of living among the ponies of Canterlot had instilled in him. There, on a stool in a mudhole in some forgotten corner of the world, he agreed to sacrifice life and limb in the name of Equestria and the Princesses.

An hour later, he stood at the foot of his cot in his assigned barracks, his horn itching from all the magic he’d expended signing paperwork. He pitied the earth ponies and pegasi who had to use their hooves or their mouths to complete the task. Of course, only now that it was done did he start to wonder if he’d made he’d right decision. Just as Twilight had done earlier in the day, he inverted his saddlebags, dumping the entirety of the contents into a disorganized pile. Sorting though it quickly, soon all he had left on his cot were a couple of personal items he’d been allowed to bring to the duration of his stay, mostly pictures of his family and friends.

In the first photo, his parents stood behind him, Twilight, and Spike as they all made a goofy face for the picture. The second picture was Twilight, Cadence, and himself in formal dress, just before the outing that would later become known as The Market Incident. The last one was the only picture he personally had taken, showing Picture Perfect gleefully dumping a bucket of water onto Barrel Roll from the roof of his house. For the first time in his life, Shining Armor began to feel homesick, wondering if those nights spent dreaming about being a soldier, charging into battle at the last minute to save the kingdom or a beautiful damsel in distress were realistic. In an ideal world, those opportunities would never arise to begin with. Equestria would remain safe as it had been for centuries; no disasters, no fair mares in need of rescuing. Just a life of managing crime and dealing with the occasional bandit raider. Was it really worth leaving behind everything he knew and everypony he loved for some coltish fantasy?

He looked up and saw Barrel Roll drop his saddlebags at the foot of the cot three spaces down from him. Well, maybe not everyone. He walked over to stand behind his friend.
“You finished up quicker than I expected.”

Barrel Roll finished stuffing his cloud pillow into his perfect regulation pillow case and tucked the edge so a visual inspection wouldn’t reveal its contents, then laid down to test his contraband.

“I bet you hear that a lot,” Barrel Roll muttered. Shining Armor ripped the pillow out from under him and clubbed him with it as Barrel Roll covered his head with his wings and laughed. After a brief struggle, Barrel Roll reset his cot and started to unpack the rest of his things.

“I guess they figured out who my dad was about halfway through the process. I swear, that officer’s eyes just about fell out of her head when she realized who was signing her stupid paperwork.” He tossed his spare uniforms into the locker at the foot of the cot. “After that, she was a lot less picky about my signature.”

“I can imagine.”

Beside Shining's cot, another unicorn was starting to unpack his saddlebags. He was blue with a white mane, and was slightly older the Shining Armor. Each of his uniforms were ironed to a crisp edge that looked sharp enough to be a weapon in its own right, and as Shining watched, each item spun in a graceful telekinetic dance before being precisely placed in the locker. Noticing Shining, he closed the locker, then spun to face him. “May I help you?”

“Just admiring your spellwork.” Shining extended a hoof. “Shining Armor, pleased to meet you.”

The unicorn shook it and said, “Prince Rare Breed of House Bloodline.”

Shining Armor was shocked. Living in Canterlot, his was familiar with House Bloodline and the assorted scandals. Notably, they were widely regarded as cowards. For one to join the Royal Guard was unusual.

“I’ve heard of House Bloodline. I’m a little surprised to meet one here though.” Rare Breed smiled confidently when he heard this.

“I am familiar with the rumors surrounding my family, as are you, I see. Rest assured, my brother and I are resolved to put an end to them and remind Equestria why our ancestors were able to claim the royal title.”

“Whatever you say, Prince,” said Barrel Roll as he walked past. “Come on, Shiny. Let’s get some grub.” Shining Armor nodded politely and followed his friend to the mess hall where lunch was still being served. He was surprised to see Spear Head and Cake sitting at one of the tables inside, Spear Head very obviously stuffing food into his mouth as quickly as possible. After collecting their food, Shining and Barrel Roll joined their friends and sat down.

“You guys got unpacked already?” Yellow Cake smiled and shook his head.

“Someone was a li’l too hungry to focus on find’in our cabin.” Spear Head grunted and kept eating.

“Well, at least the food looks tasty.”

“I think Spear’s appetite is suppressing his sense of taste,” said Barrel Roll. “That or they finally got rid of Quick Swallow in the kitchen.”

“With a name like that, how bad could he be?”

“His cutie mark is a bird, not a cookpot.”

“Oh”

“Yeah. I encouraged dad to get Celesita to visit the camp and eat while she was here. Figured Swallow can’t cook if he’s banished.” Shining Armor took a bite, then retched and put down his spoon.

“Ugh, he might get worse then banishment if he fed her this.”

“Problem is, ya’ll city folk ain’t never really been hungry.” Yellow Cake chuckled. He dipped his spoon and took a small taste, whereupon he grimaced and turned slightly greener. “Then again, I reckon I never been that hungry neither.”

“You will be in a few days. Trust me.” Barrel Roll took a big spoonful of his food and swallowed without chewing, “The key is to eat without tasting, just like Spear.”

“How the hay are we supposed to do that?”

“You’ll figure it out.”

Spear Head swallowed his last bite of food and wiped his mouth. “Hold up dude, did you say your dad knows the Princess?” He looked at Shining Armor, “You said his dad was a guard.”

“You didn’t tell them?”

“I thought you didn’t want anyone to know.”

“Everyone’s going to know at some point.” Barrel looked at their new companions. “My dad is Captain of the guard in Canterlot.”

Yellow Cake let out a low whistle, then Spear Head spoke up, “Hey, good to know we got friends in high places! Getting on that patrol team should be a synch!”

“NO!” Around the table ponies stopped to stare at the group. Barrel Roll lowered his voice and said, “We can’t get my father involved in this.”

“Why not?”

“It’s complicated. Look, I don’t want to get him involved, okay? I know what the officers are looking for, I’ll go over it with you later.”

“Okay, bro.”

There was an uncomfortable silence around the table as the four finished eating. Eventually, Spear Head and Yellow Cake left to go find their cabin, while Barrel Roll went to go sign up for the weather team, leaving Shining Armor alone and wishing he’d saved an extra from his breakfast. He was about to head back to his cabin when Prince Rare Breed, still wearing his saddlebag, placed his food tray opposite him. “May I join you?”

“Sure.”

He sat down and picked up his spoon, examining his food the same way Shining had seen Twilight inspect a sample from her chemistry class. “Fascinating. I have never before seen anything that so perfectly fit the description technically edible.”

“Eh, let’s see how we feel about it after it’s had a chance to sit.”

“Indeed,” Rare Breed said with a smirk. He dropped his spoon onto the tray and looked around the mess hall. “I’d heard that the camp left much to be desired, but this… well, I know when I return to Canterlot, I certainly will be using what little influence I have to lobby for better than this.”

“On behalf of future soldiers, I thank you.”

Rare Breed opened his saddlebag and levitated out a familiar paper bag. Opening it, he tilted it to reveal its contents to Shining. Inside were three of Old Joe’s donuts, cold but still smelling like pure heaven after the meal he’d just eaten.

“Are those…?”

“I had these delivered fresh this morning. Did you know that among the noble court in Canterlot, Old Joe’s donut shop is widely considered to have 4 star cuisine? I personally know of at least one political dispute that was settled when one party offered the other a year’s supply of his donuts in exchange for support in the parliament.”

“That’s amazing… and disturbing…”

“Perhaps, but it got the job done.” Rare Breed pulled one out and offered the bag to Shining Armor, who took one and greedily took a bite. The succulent pastry erased the unpleasant aftertaste the meal had left in his mouth and reminded him of home. Thinking back to his morning and Picture Perfect, he sighed unhappily. Rare Breed frowned and said “Have they gone sale already?”

“No, not at all. I just… Well, I miss home.”

“I can understand that.” He placed the bag on the table and leaned forward, touching his hooves in front of his chin as he studied Shining Armors face. “Mr. Armor, I couldn’t help but notice your cutie mark earlier in the barracks, and I found myself intrigued. Tell me, does your special talent have anything to do with the art of creating magical shields?”

Rare Breed listened attentively as Shining Armor told how he had earned his mark, pausing occasionally to take a bite of the donut. Shining took extra care not drop a single crumb of the pastry, savoring the treat.

“And from then on, I knew I was destined to be a guard.” Prince Rare Breed leaned back, his face neutral.

“Fascinating. I heard a story not too dissimilar to yours years ago from one of the ponies who was there. Funny that we should meet now.” He paused for a second. “Listen. I know that you’ve had your heart set on this course for years, and I commend your decision. I think I’ve made it clear I am not exactly thrilled at my being here.” He looked around the mess hall. The building was almost empty with the light starting to dim. Even though it was still only mid-afternoon, the sun was setting behind the hill where Camp Nowhere was seated, giving the illusion of an early night.

Having confirmed they were alone, Rare Breed leaned forward and said in a low voice, “Between you and me, if there were a better way to dispel the myths being told about House Bloodline, I would have pursued those instead, but alas, this was the only way.” He shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “While I have prodigious magical talent and training, I confess that my studies were remarkably light on combat magic. Seeing how you are already ahead of the curve, I was hoping that a talented pony such as yourself could give me a few pointers during our time here?” Shining Armor licked the last of the crumbs off his hoof and smiled.

“Definitely. I don’t know any combat spell beyond shielding, but I’ll gladly share what I know with you, Prince.”

“Excellent. I understand that tomorrow we’ll be assigned our work teams and commanding officers on the parade grounds. I imagine we shall be quite busy for some time after that. Perhaps we could meet up next weekend, after the soreness of the first few days has worn off?”

“First few weeks is how I heard it, but I’ll meet up with you then for your first lesson.” Prince Rare Breed gave Shining Armor a smile that did not quite reach his eyes.

“It seems we have stuck up a friendship, Mr. Armor.” Prince Rare Breed stood and levitated his tray. Turning as if to walk away, he twisted his head to look back at Shining. “And I always make it a point to take care of my friends.” With that, he left Shining Armor alone at the table, the last donut still in the bag in front of him. He stared at it for a minute, then gingerly removed it and took a small bite, trying to pretend that he was still home.

Laying in Cadance’s bed, Shining Armor scowled at the picture of the parade square. In the photograph he stood at attention at the front of the formation, Barrel Roll to his right and Rare Breed to his left.

“I can’t believe there was a time when I considered that pony to be my friend. “

“I’m sorry you and Barrel Roll have drifted apart, dear.”

“What? No, I’m talking about Rare Breed. That’s him, the traitor!” He stabbed the picture with a fore hoof. Cadance looked closely at the picture, her eyes narrowed.

“I didn’t recognize him. He looks different.”

“Of course he does! Surely you have not forgotten New Mareland.”

“How could I! What with all the excitement, I feel weak merely speaking of it.” She swooned and Shining Armor caught her before she hit the bed.

“Never fear, my darling. I swear to you, one day I will make him pay for his crimes.” For a moment Shining Armor thought her eyes gleamed like those of a foal who was about to eat a slice of birthday cake. Then the moment passed, and all he could see was her beautiful smile and kind expression staring up at him.

“I know your love will keep me safe-” She whispered as she drew him in for a kiss, “-and that’s everything I could ever want from you.”

Starting for Real

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Shining Armor relaxed as water flowed over his body, letting the hot shower work out the tension that had been building in his muscles all week. After a passionate make out session he’d started feeling exhausted again, so he said goodnight to Cadance and returned to the officers’ barracks to get some sleep. Even though he was ready to drop, he still couldn’t shake the feeling he’d forgotten something important. After lying in bed for an hour, he’d giving up trying to sleep for the time being and tried to relax. He’d gone for a walk, cleaned his weapons and armor, and was now resorting to standing in the shower with the heat almost hot enough to scald him. He sighed as the muscles in his back and neck slowly loosened, his tension headache starting to ease. He stood there for a couple more minutes as the water continued its work, then decided he was sufficiently relaxed enough to go to sleep. He turned off the water then grabbed his towel and started walking back to his bed. He was almost to the door when he heard muffled pounding. Turning back, he checked to make sure that he was alone in the bathroom. While both nicer and more private then the ones used by the guards, the officers’ bathrooms were still communal in nature.

“Hello? Is somepony here?” He stepped back into the bathroom, looking around for the source of the noise. He hadn’t heard or seen anyone else come in while he was in the shower, which was a little odd, but he was tired and everyone was working overtime while there was a threat to the city, so he hadn’t thought much of it. Walking through the bathroom, he noticed the noises seemed to be coming from the sink area.

“Hello? Everything okay?” He stood in front of the sinks, confused. The pounding was definitely coming from here but he couldn’t see anything causing it. He was about to dismiss the noise as a prank when the pounding become more frantic. He looked up at the ceiling and saw out of the corner of his eye a faint outline of a shadow moving in the mirror. Shining Armor’s ears flattened and his horn glowed as he summoned his magic, ready to cast a spell at any moment.

He stared at the shadow, and realized that the movement wasn’t over or on the mirror, but in it, obscured by the fog on the surface. If this was unicorn magic, it was like nothing he knew about. Moving slowly, he used his towel to wipe away the condensation. When he finished he dropped the towel and stepped back in horror. There, on the other side of the mirror, was his reflection, but not as he stood. The Shining Armor in the mirror was screaming and slamming up against the other side, trying to break out. The real Shining Armor slipped on a puddle and started to scramble back away from his mirror self. This is wrong, this is all wrong. Even as he watched, the cracks started to appear the other Armor started bucking the mirror over and over again. As the cracks got bigger, the screams became more intelligible.

“She’s in danger!”

Shining Armor was rooted in place, unable to force himself to move. Unable to fight or run, or even call for help, he did the only thing he could do.

“W-who’s in danger?”

“Cadance! She’s in danger!”

“What do you mean? I just saw her, she’s perfectly safe!”

“Cadance isn’t Cadance!”

“Wh-what are you talking about?”

“She’s not Cadance! Cadance is in danger, you need to find her!”

“I don’t understand, I’m so confused…”

“No time! She’ll be back at any second, you need to find her!” The repeated kicks had cracked the mirror to the point Shining Armor could no longer see himself through it, though he could still hear him bucking it.
“Help me breakthrough!”

“Who are you? What are you doing here?”

“I’m you, you’re me!” The other bucked the mirror again, and a small piece fell out. Through the gap, Shining Armor could make out his counterpart's eye staring back him.

“That makes no sense!”

“There’s no time! We have to-“ the pounding stopped. “Too late. She’s here.”

“Who’s here?”

“Listen to me,“ the other Armor said, “you need to remember: SHE’S NOT REAL. You need to find her.” The cracks in the mirror began to shrink.

“FIND WHO?”

“Cadance!” The cracks slowly faded in reverse, as though the mirror suddenly remembered it was supposed to be whole.

“But Cadance isn’t missing.” The fog began to cover the mirror again. “I don’t understand, Help me understand what you’re saying!” He saw the fog cover everything except the hole where the other Armor's eye gazed through, clearly terrified of something. The other Armor was shouting, but it came through muffled, as it had earlier. However, this time it began to echo off the walls of the bathroom, growing louder with each repetition.

Find Her. Find Her. Find Her. Find Her.

"Find Her"

Shining Armor woke up. He was still lying in Cadance’s bed, the echoes of his dream fading even as he struggled to recall it. The first thing he saw was his fiancée standing over him, the glow of her horn winking out just as he opened his eyes. She stared at him, a look of concern on her face.

“Ugh. What happened?” He asked groggily.

“You started thrashing in your sleep. What did you see?” Cadance’s voice was cold and unpleasant, which stuck Shining as unusual for some reason he couldn’t quite recall.

“I… I don’t remember. I think you were in danger?” Cadance’s posture relaxed slightly, then she leaned over to nuzzle him softly.

“It was probably just the stress causing nightmares, darling.” Her silhouette towered over him, her back to the open window casting her face in shadow. She was as beautiful as ever, her hair perfect even though she had to have slept alongside him. So why did he feel something was off about her?

Wait. Shadow. He looked at the window, seeing the sun starting to peak over the horizon. Shit. I overslept again.

“Right.” Shining Armor sat up, groaning as his muscles protested in a way they hadn’t since he was in the academy. I’m too young to feel this old. Ignoring the pain, he rolled out of bed. “I need to go.”

“You need to rest, Shiny. You haven’t been yourself,” Cadance gave him a gentle smile, ”Come sit and eat some breakfast with me. Enjoy the morning for once.” Shining Armor rolled his eyes. I’m not the only one who hasn’t been themselves late- The thought was cut off by a sudden, blindingly painful headache. He clutched his head and shut his eyes, hoping the pain would recede. It didn’t. He stumbled towards the door, too disoriented to notice the upturned edge of a rug that lay in the center of the floor. Falling to the ground, he lay there in agony for a while, unable to focus on anything but the pain. Eventually the pain started to fade and he realized Cadance was sitting beside him, slowly rubbing his back.

“Oh, you poor thing. Here, drink some water, you’ll feel better.” A glass of water floated in front of him, hovering just about the floor. He sipped it gingerly. The water was unusually refreshing, and he felt the aftershocks of the headache begin to fade as he drank. By the time he was finished the pain was gone, as were any thoughts he’d had before the sudden headache. Sitting up, he returned the glass to Cadance, giving her a kiss for good measure.

“Thank you, Cadance, but I really must be going. I’m overdue to replenish the shield again, and I’m late for my shift.”

“Dear, you can’t expect to be of use to anyone while like this! Besides, your shift today is already covered.”

“What?” Shining Armor asked, baffled. Cadance shrugged.

“Well, after you passed out last night, I realized you were in absolutely no condition to protect anypony. So, I informed Celestia and the guard that you were unwell and would not be able to attend to your duties today.”

“Cadance! You can’t do that! I’m perfectly able-“

“Oh, I’m sorry, I’m new here, is falling asleep while kissing your lover normal for you?”

“Of course not-“

“Well then it is my decision as Princess that you are too tired to attend to your duties, and must therefore spend the day in bed. Preferably with me, where I said I would be as well, seeing how I too suddenly felt under the weather.” She turned and walked over to the table where a single hot breakfast sat ready to be eaten, then gave him a smirk. “Of course, I could just tell the Princess that I’m feeling better and can go about my day as planned, leaving you here alone instead.”

Shining wavered. A war raged inside him between duty and desire, and duty was in serious danger of being routed. The chance to spend a full day with Cadence for the first time since… well, he didn’t think they ever had spent a full day alone together. Steeling himself, he clung to the last unshakable fact preventing him from crawling back into bed.

“But what about the shield,” he asked, “no one else knows the how to utilize the spell matrix I’ve been using to maintain the dome over the city. I have to return to my post!”

“Just cast the shield spell from the door, Darling. No need to publicize the fact both of us are blowing off our jobs while in the same apartment.” She winked at him, sending a pleasant shiver down his spine. “Other ponies might get the wrong idea.”

How terrible.

“Very well, then. For you.” A few minutes later he was chatting with Cadance, enjoying having a hot meal and nothing to do for the first time in a long time. When he asked Cadance where her breakfast was, she smiled and said she’d eaten while he slept. Afterwards he went into the bathroom to freshen up, though he was very reluctant to look in the mirror for some reason.

Afterwards he joined Cadance in the poster bed for snuggling, which led to kissing and nips on ears. However, after a few minutes she pushed him away and produced a familiar book.

“Now then, mister, I believe you owe me a few more stories before we get carried away.” Shining Armor tried to slide the book away and roll on top of her at the same time, but he found himself blocked on both counts. After several unsuccessful attempts to coax her back into foreplay, he gave a sigh of defeat and flipped open the scrap book to where they left off the previous night.

3 Months Later…

A lot had changed in the months since Shining Armor and Barrel Roll had arrived. The height of summer was upon them, and with it came the hottest, most grueling heat waves. The rain schedule out here in the wilderness was intermittent, with almost a week between the sweet relief rains brought to the Camp. Unfortunately, the Drill Instructors did not have a similar schedule, rousting the troops from their beds at the crack of dawn and leading them through grueling exercises every day. After a break for a light meal, it was right back to training, mixing workouts with obstacle courses and endurance marches in the afternoon. Now, those months of effort were beginning to pay dividends. Every day they were running just a little bit faster, marching a little bit longer, pushing themselves a little bit further. While in a rush one morning, Shining Armor accidentally threw his cot and footlocker across the room with magic. Barrel Roll, already in top shape when he arrived, could now fly for days without landing. Spear Head had been picked out by the Drill instructors as ‘soft’ when they had arrived, now the muscles in his back and chest ripped like a stream when he flew. Yellow Cake, who’d been at the very upper limit of acceptable age for recruits stood taller and moved with a liveliness that had been missing when he’d boarded the train in Canterlot.

Together they watched as their fellow trainees were slowly whittled away by the challenges presented to them. Some fell prey to the strain on their bodies and minds, others were forced out due to injuries they sustained. When they had arrived here, there had been almost 500 ponies who had signed up. Barely half of those remained. One morning, after returning from a brutal three day march, Shining Armor awoke to discover that he and Rare Breed were the only unicorns left in their barracks, the rest having quit or been discharged during the night. For Shining, the only thing keeping him going was the mutual support from his friends and the letters he received from home. Every night before sleeping, he would take out the letters he’d received and read through them, fighting back tears as he shared in their lives a world away. Occasionally, he’d find time to write back to them, telling them about his new friends or about how much he’d changed. Today’s letter was of an entirely different sort.

Dear Mom, Dad, Twily, Spike,

I Made It.

Yesterday they told us that the Physical portion of boot camp was completed, and that every one of us would pass on to combat training at the start of next week. If you heard a faint cheering yesterday evening, that was us. As you know, it’s been a tough couple of months, but worse than that, it’s been extremely boring. Everypony is ready to get on with the REAL training, and that includes the Drill Instructors as well. I miss you guys like crazy still, but I’m staying busy, and I’ll be even busier soon, so if I send fewer letters in the future, don’t worry.

I sent the letters all at once this time, I hope you guys read this one first, I’ll tie it…

Why am I telling you this? I’ll just do it and it will be obvious.

I included separate letters for you all*, just give everypony theirs. If Picture Perfect isn’t there, give it to her when you see her next. I love you all.

Your Son, Brother, and BBBFF

Shining Armor folded the letters and slide them into separate envelopes, then checked the time. If he hurried he could drop them off before the weekly train back to Canterlot left for the weekend. He ran out the door and sprinted towards the administrative office that had the rickety wooden box that the camp used as a postbox. As he reached the building, he opened the door with his magic and charged into the room, then turned a corner and ran face first into another pony. Letters scattered as Shining Armor and the unlucky pony tumbled over each other onto the tiled floor.

“Ow.”

Shining Armor raised his head and saw, to his horror, Rare Breed’s crumpled form lying next to him.

“Prince!” Shining Armor scrambled up and helped the prince to his feet. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Rare Breed straightened his uniform as he glared at Shining Armor. “What on earth has gotten into you, running like Cerberus himself was chasing you?”

Shining Armor blushed, humiliated. Ever since arriving here, Prince Rare Breed had gone out of his way to bond with his fellow recruits, supporting stragglers on long marches and trying to use what little political influence he had back home to improve Camp Nowhere ramshackle conditions. His willingness to suffer and train alongside commoners, rather than accepting a military commission as a political appointment had earned the respect of everyone on base, Shining Armor included.

And Shining Armor just knocked him on his ass.

Shit.

“I-I am so sorry, my liege, I was trying to drop my letters off before the train leaves…” Shining Armor desperately hoped that didn’t sound as pathetic to Rare Breed as did to him, now that he’d said it out loud.

To his surprise, Rare Breed’s face softened, and he nodded. “Very well then.” His horn glowed, and the scattered letters lifted off the floor and floated in a neat stack next to Shining. “Deliver your messages, then return to me.”

A wave of relief washed over Shining. “Yes Sir!” He grabbed the letters with his teeth, ignoring the slight buzz caused by Rare Breed’s magic aura and trotted down the hallway. The process of addressing the letters only took a few minutes and soon he was back in the hall, standing awkwardly next to the prince.

“Walk with me, Mr. Armor.” Shining Armor followed Rare Breed down the hall and out of the Administrative building. Rare Breed was silent until they were out of the building. “Tell me about them.”

“Who?”

“Who the letters were for. I’m curious as to who could inspire such passion in the heart of one of my fellow soldiers as to trample over anything, or anyone, in their way.”

“Right. Sorry about that. Again.”

Rare Breed chuckled. “Your minor transgression is forgiven, have no fear.” He winked at Shining Armor, “However, it is generally polite to answer the questions of those one has trampled.”

“Right.” Shining Armor flushed again. “I was writing to my family back in Canterlot. Some of the messages were a little time sensitive, so I was trying to beat the train.” They came to the edge of the parade grounds, an open dirt square in the middle of the camp that was the site of their morning rally and early exercises. One side of the field had a low fence along the perimeter, the side they now approached from. Rare Breed sat down under the fence in the shade and motioned to Shining to sit next to him. Once he was seated, Rare Breed continued.

“So tell me about them. How are they holding up? They can’t be all bad if you missed them so much when we got here.”

“They’re doing okay, I guess. Mom’s set to get a promotion soon, and Dad wants to take her to Las Pegasus to celebrate it.” He gave Rare Breed a lopsided grin. “I’m guessing they’ll leave Twily and Spike when they go.”

“Siblings?”

“Yeah, two. My little sister and adoptive brother, Spike the Dragon.” He watched Rare Breed out of the corner of his eye to see his reaction. He was not disappointed. Rare Breed sat up, his eyes wide and nostrils flared as he stared at Shining.

“A Dragon you say..?”

“Yep.” Pride swelled his chest as he spoke. “Hatched by my sister when she went in for her entrance exam for Princess Celestia’s school for Gifted Unicorns. Nopony had ever seen anything like it!”

“And now she’s Celestia’s personal student.” Rare Breed grinned at Shining Armor. “Don’t act so surprised. You don’t spend as much time as I have growing up in Canterlot’s court and not hear about the amazing Twilight Sparkle and her gift with magic.” The corner of his smile twitched. “Your parents must be very proud.”

“All of us were. Although, when Princess Celestia decided that Spike would come live with us, things were pretty crazy for a while. Baby proofing a house is one thing, but baby-dragon proofing a house is another.”

“I suppose it would be, at that. What about your mother and father, what do they do?”

“Dad works in the ministry of public services. He’s in charge of the lighting infrastructure. Mom works for Reined In, that fashion shop at the corner of 23^rd and Hoofington. She’s an assistant manager there now, but they’re promoting her as soon as her boss Mink Sash retires.”

“Fascinating.”

Shining Armor got the distinct impression that Rare Breed was anything but fascinated by this topic.

“What about your family? I don’t know as much about your parents as I probably could. What’s it like, growing up in the palace? Did you see the Princesses?”

“Not as much as you would think,” Rare Breed snorted. “Hardly at all really. The Palace grounds are huge, and my parents… well, my family isn’t exactly favored by the Princess right now, so they did their best to keep me out of her way, lest I cause more trouble.” He pursed his lips, then sighed. “My father… well, he used to be somepony, back before my grandfather was accused of treason.”

“Oh.” Shining Armor sat in silence. What could you say to something like that? “Oh, you mean Attempted Treason right? Since, you know, it obviously didn’t work.” After a minute, Rare Breed spoke again.

“Not to say we were particularly well liked before, mind you, it’s just after that my father retired from public life, and I can hardly blame him for that. The stigma I have to deal with is bad enough, I can’t imagine the pressure on him.”

“That’s rough, buddy.”

“Yes, well, it is my pack to bear,” he said with a dramatic sigh. Shining resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the display, choosing instead to become very interested in a ladybug that had crawled onto his leg.

“Speaking of packs, I’m ready to be done with PT.” Shining Armor carefully picked up the insect with his magic and floated it up to the tree branch they were sheltering under. “I don’t know about you, but after months of being screamed at, I’m ready to go toe-to-toe with a couple of our Sergeants, you know?”

“The feeling is mutual, I assure you.” Rare Breed noticed another Lady Bug crawling up his own leg. “The other day, one of them called me something so utterly vile, the mere memory of it makes me want to gag.” His horn flashed, and the ladybug disappeared in a puff of smoke. “And I overheard some of them talking the other day. Apparently I have earned the distinction of my own nickname.”

“Oh really?”

“Yes.” Rare Breed’s visage twisted into a deep frown. “Apparently, I am commonly referred to as ‘Breeder’ among the instructors.” Shining Armor nodded along, his face neutral as he could make it. Barrel Roll started calling you that months ago. I wonder which Drill Sergeant he shared that little joke with.

“Well, don’t let any of instructors see it bothering you. You know what happens when they know they can get under your skin like that.”

“I know that…” He twisted his hoof into the ground next to him. “I’d like to meet whoever came up with that little jest one day and… instruct them on proper respect for the royal family.”

Shit.

“Well, whoever it was, they’ll be long gone from here by the time you’re in a position to do anything about it.”

“Yes, I suppose you’re correct.” Rare Breed grinned. “I suppose I’ll just have to make the most of my time here then.” He gave Shining Armor an intense look. “Can I count on your assistance in this matter?”

Tartarus no.

“Sure,” he lied.

“Excellent.” Rare Breed stood and stretched, “We should be heading back, we’ve a long day ahead of us tomorrow, I dare say we’ll wish for those runs before the sun set tomorrow.”

“I hope not,” Shining Armor chuckled. “Only thing worse they could do is kill us, and they’re not going to do that.”

Shining Armor was killed almost immediately.

It wasn’t at all how he imagined. The tragic stories he loved as a foal always made the hero’s death dramatic and impactful, something that changed the course of history, that inspired his allies to greater feats of courage and led to the ultimate downfall of whatever evil threatened the world. He knew better now. Now, he knew that death felt like having the wind knocked out of you, your legs swept and then being sat on by a small mountain of an earth pony.

“So, what did everypony learn?” the husky voice of Drill Sergeant Achy Bones bellowed out at the crowd of onlookers.

“Blocking is good!”

“Stay away from the pointy end!”

“Keep your eye on your enemy’s weapon, not just him.”

Achy Bones grinned. “Very good, Barrel Roll! You’re correct, maintaining awareness on the battlefield, especially of your opponent and his weapons and equipment, are essential to surviving any engagement.” He shifted his position slightly so that instead of sitting on Shining’s barrel, he was now resting in his ribcage, forcing all the air out of Shining’s lungs once again. “Now, another thing to remember is that big, flashy strikes may look pretty, but jabs with your spear are just as effective and require far less effort to achieve a similar effect,” He patted Shining’s withers, “Armor probably expected me to come in with some wide swing that he would be able to block.” Achy Bones eyes gleamed. “That was a mistake.

“We are not in the business of being gentle with our enemies. You are soldiers, sworn to defend the Princesses and the realm. If you meet one of Equestria’s enemies on the battlefield, they will not hesitate to cut you down, and you must be willing to do the same. Ending the threat as quickly as possible will save your life and the lives of your comrades.”

The speech was somewhat lost on Shining Armor, who was still struggling underneath the much larger pony. Desperate and humiliated, his horn lit up as he prepared a spell to launch the Sergeant as far away as possible. Instead, Achy Bones rapped his spear on Shining’s horn, sending a streak of pain through his head and neck and dispelling the magic.

“Another Lesson for those of us who cannot use magic: It is essential that you engage any unicorns in hoof-to-hoof as quickly as possible. A unicorn’s greatest advantage is the ability to attack from a distance, so we counter this by getting up close and introducing them to our best friend Mr. Spear.” He hefted the mock weapon over his head, and one of the pony’s in the crowd whooped. “Now, barring your ability to make your opponent even more intimately familiar with your weapon then you are, your next objective should be to disrupt their ability to cast magic by giving their horn a little tap. As any unicorn can tell you, Horns are as sensitive as your 'cojones' and very nearly as important, so keep that in mind when you are fighting.” At long last the Sergeant stood up, letting Shining Armor breathe properly.

“Now, some of you may be wondering why you are here, learning to fight as an earth pony. The answer is simple: Everything we learn here also applies to you as well. While you may not be assigned to a close combat unit, you must know how to fight without your wings or horn, in case you were to attack an anti-magic field or defend a tight hallway.

“Your Commanders will do their very best to give you an ideal battlefield, but as in all matters, sometimes things may be… less than ideal. In those cases, you need to be able to defend yourself and support your fellow soldiers, and today, we’re going to begin to learn how to do that.” He pointed to a large pile of spears with wooden spearheads. “Grab a weapon and rejoin the formation. Be ready in 2 minutes.”

The tight ranks of recruits broke as individuals rushed to grab a weapon. Ignoring the chaos, Achy Bones turned to face Shining Armor, who was struggling to his feet. Shining glared at the drab earth pony, his anger building as he regained his breath. He was about do something stupid when Achy Bones held up a hoof in becalming gesture.

“Shining Armor, I wanted to thank you for assisting me with this little demonstration.” He held out Shining’s practice spear, “Take this and pair up with somepony else.” Mollified, but still not trusting his voice, Shining nodded and took the spear. He began to walk back to the group when Achy Bones called out to him.

“And Shining?”

“Yes, sir?”

“I’ll remind you that during this time, there is to be no magic.” Achy Bones gave him a knowing look. “I’ll forgive this lapse of memory once, but not again. Understood?”

“Clear As Crystal.”

“Good.”

Shining Armor limped back to where he’d been standing next to Barrel Roll, who was eyeing him warily.

“You aright? He asked.

“I’m fine.”

Liar.

Behind him, Achy Bones blew a whistle. “Listen up! The ponies closest to me will strike first with a stab to the chest.” He demonstrated the strike on a dummy that had seemingly materialized out of nowhere.

“Partners, you will take a step back to avoid the strike as they attack, then return to your original position. You and your partners will repeat this attack until I say otherwise. Is that clear?”

“YES, INSTRUCTOR!!”

“On my command…”

A knock on the door interrupted Shining’s story. Before he could react, Cadance leapt out of bed and glided over to the door. She motioned for him to hid under the covers, then cracked open the door and peaked outside. Even from beneath the bed’s comforter, Shining could hear she was upset with whoever she was talking to right outside the door, though from his position he couldn’t tell what she was saying, or to whom. After a minute, she closed the door abruptly, locked it, and then returned to the bed.

“Sorry, dear. A princess is never really off duty, you know.” She snuggled into him and wiggled so her wings could extend behind them. “Now where were we?” Sighing softly, he kissed her forehead and turned the page.