> All That We Become: A Single Step
>  by Marezinger Z
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> A Single Step
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It is said across all cultures that every journey begins with a single step, this holds true even for the most powerful of creatures as Aurelian and Faye began their travels across a world thousands of years beyond their time. Arbitrarily moving north from the Dragonlands, the pair found their first stop to be the dilapidated home of the Griffons. Sailing over the broken down homes, the duo touched down before the old statue of King Grover. 
“So, this is where the Griffons finally settled.” Aurelian looked up at the fractured effigy. 
“Looks a bit… homely.” Faye glanced around, noticing that they had already garnered worried attention from the fiercely private species. “Hello, loves!” She waved her wing. 
“More tourists?” A hacking voice asked as Grandpa Gruff wobbled towards them; he focused his remaining eye on the strikingly unfamiliar creatures. “Everything is closed!” He barked. “That is, unless you’ve got some bits to spare?” 
Aurelian cast his eyes down on the grouchy Griffon, but before he could speak, a brown blur rushed over and began pushing Grandpa Gruff away. 
“You old coot!” Gilda growled. “You trying to get us all killed!” 
“What the heck are you talking about?” Grandpa Gruff knocked her talons away indignantly. 
“Don’t you remember… ugh, of course you don’t,” She rolled her eyes. “Those Changelings came here and told us about him, the incredibly powerful and dangerous Alicorn.” 
“Seems your reputation precedes you, love.” Faye elbowed Aurelian with her wing. 
Gilda approached them with a far from cool laugh. “Listen, just ignore him, he’s old and crazy.” 
“What was that!?” Grandpa Gruff narrowed his eye. 
“It’s alright, love,” Faye assured. “We hashed all that out with the Princesses; we’re just on a bit of a walkabout to see the sights.” 
“Well, you came to the wrong place for sights,” Glida noted. “Nothing much to look at here.” 
“We noticed.” Faye concurred. 
“There’s a lot of history though,” Grandpa Gruff returned. “For a price, I could tell you all about it… I’m old, I’ve seen a lot in my day.” 
“I am far older, Griffon.” Aurelian finally spoke. “I know as much that your kind usurped this mountain.” 
“Huh?” Gilda looked up at him. 
“Your kind did not always reside here,” He continued. “This mountain was the domain of a mighty serpent.” 
“Never heard of him.” Grandpa Gruff scoffed. 
“I also know that Griffons would never accept living in such squalor; why is your home in such condition?” Aurelian asked. 
“Well, I guess I can tell you for free,” Grandpa Gruff settled, recounting the tale of the Idol of Boreas and what it meant to his home; he told of the line of Kings and its end when the idol was lost in the battle between Guto and Arimaspi. 
“I saw the idol,” Gilda stepped in at the story's end. “I almost got it back, but I had to save my friend; it fell even deeper into the Abysmal Abyss, now it really is lost forever.” 
“That’s a right shame,” Faye offered, looking over at Aurelian. “How about we go find it? Could be fun.” 
“What?” Gilda looked between the two foreign creatures. 
“Their fates are not our concern,” Aurelian refuted. “We are merely observing the state of this new world.” 
“Aw come on, love.” Faye insisted. “Aestus is helping out his Dragon kin, Brayok is off checking on the sea… this could be a good chance to do something right by this world.” She suggested. “You know, all that friendship stuff the Princess was on about.” 
Aurelian shook his head at the sight of earnestness in Faye’s eyes. “If that is what you wish.” Aurelian turned and started out of town. 
“Hold on,” Gilda rushed after them. “The Abysmal Abyss is dangerous, the winds are…”
“There is no place in this world that is beyond me, child.” Aurelian cut her off as he and Faye continued on.  
“That’s the spirit, love.” Faye smiled. 
“Your spirit, Faye; not mine.” He reminded. 
“Oh don't be like that, I remember when you used to love stuff like this.” 
“My days as a champion are long behind me,” He lowered his head with closed eyes. “I abandoned such foolish ideals… all foolish ideals.” 
The pair headed down the trail until coming across the expansive crevasse that led into the long forgotten depths of the mountain. The winds howled and swirled as they peered down into the blackness. 
“Seems sufficiently abysmal.” Faye chuckled. 
“This was not here before,” Aurelian noted. “I can only imagine what force caused this formation.” His horn readied with magical energy. “Stay close.” 
“Don’t have to tell me twice.” Faye gladly cozied up to him. 
Aurelian wrapped the two of them in magic and began lowering into the great crack, the wild winds shearing off of his powerful barrier. Further and further they went until the winds finally died and the only light came from Aurelian’s horn. 
“Allow me,” Faye ignited her body, illuminating the area fully. “Oh… look.” She pointed her wing downward towards massive lengths of bone that went in either direction. “What is that?” 
“I fear I know,” Aurelian began flying up the path. “Come.” 
“Right-o,” Faye followed after and they found another segment of bone, then another and another; for nearly two miles they followed along until coming upon a skull of incomprehensible size, not even Faye’s light able to encompass it all. 
Aurelian reached down and laid his hoof to the skull. “Ul’reth… so this was your fate.” 
“Who?” Faye asked. 
“He was known as the great serpent of the mountain,” He explained. “This entire spire was his and his alone.” He looked upward into the darkness. “He was winged… whatever happened to him must have occurred in the air; his fall must have created this so called abyss.” He sighed. “Yet another part of my past that lays dead in this world; he was of the strongest creatures and yet his remains sit here unknown and forgotten.” 
“It's been a long time, Aurelian; that’s to be expected I gather.” Faye hovered down to him. 
“Precisely,” He concurred. “Be you weak or strong, king or peasant, with enough time the world will move forward and no matter how great or small your impact… it will be forgotten.” He looked back at her. “Only creatures like you and I can live long enough to earn that truth.” 
“I suppose that’s one way to look at it,” Faye frowned at his usual dismissal of the world; she panned around and noticed a distinct gleam coming from the massive eye socket. “What’s all this then?” She flew inside and emerged with a statuette in her talon. “Take a look, think this is that idol they were looking for?” 
“Perhaps,” Aurelian levitated before his eyes. “Hmph, there is a low grade aura emanating from the stone at its center.” 
“Mission accomplished then.” Faye said proudly. “Look at us, saving the Griffons like a couple of heroes.” 
“Time will tell I suppose.” Aurelian returned it to Faye, looking back down at the skull. “Rest well, Ul’reth; the world may not remember you, but I shall bear your memory along with all the others I carry.” Once again he encased Faye and himself in magic and returned to the surface; as they walked back into Griffonstone, Griffons began to emerge from their homes as if they could sense some great wind of change. Gilda and Grandpa Gruff still stood before the statue of Grover; Faye dropped the idol at their feet and landed at Aurelian’s side. 
“This your little idol thingy?” She asked. 
“Oh… oh my…” Grandpa Gruff took up the idol. “I can’t believe it.” 
“No way…” Gilda beheld the artifact. “You really found it?” 
“A simple task,” Aurelian stated. “It rested with the mountain serpent; it seems to be his death that created your mythical abyss.” 
Griffons began to gather around them, murmuring as they observed their lost treasure. Gilda took the idol and held it up with an atypical smile. “Check it out! The Idol of Boreas is back where it belongs!” Excited shock washed over the crowd as they tried to get a closer look. 
“Thank you!” A griffon approached Aurelian. 
“Yes, thank you!” Another did the same. 
“This is the greatest day in Griffonstone’s history!” Another cheered. 
Faye smiled at Aurelian as the Griffons rallied and celebrated, tears in their eyes. “Maybe your champion days aren’t all behind you.” 
Aurelian turned and started out of town again. “Let us continue on.” 
“Wait!” Gilda flew over the crowd and landed behind them. “I’m new at this, but how can we thank you for bringing the idol back? I mean, this is seriously the biggest thing ever.” 
Gilda never got an answer, the mysterious creatures simply flew off as suddenly as they had appeared; the concept of just what they had given Griffonstone seemingly lost on them. 



Continuing northeast, they crossed the ocean and discovered the Pony metropolis of Manehatten. Being the most modern city in Equestria, the sight was something truly foreign to the ancient creatures. They flew in from the harbor and made their way into the city, all activity nearly ceasing in their presence as they looked up at the impressive structures. 
“A city such as this would have been unthinkable in our time,” Aurelian said in thought. “It seems much progress has been made as a result of the Princesses’ peaceful ways.” 
“Couldn’t keep up a wall for more than three days,” Faye laughed. “That’s why I was so glad to have me island; no marauders knocking on my door… well… except for that last time.” She recalled Aurelian’s tale of what had happened to her. 
The two of them began randomly walking across a busy road; a gruff stallion pulling a yellow carriage cab quickly halting and raising his hoof at them. 
“Hey!” He shouted. “Watch where you’re going! You think you own the road!” 
Aurelian stopped and slowly turned his head at the accosting voice. His eyes burned a hole in the cabby who quickly shrank as he realized it was an Alicorn he was yelling at. Faye’s wing came down on his shoulder. “Now now, love. No wanton destruction, we’re on holiday.”
“How odd that creatures feel so free as to speak carelessly without fear of consequence.” Aurelian returned his eyes forward and carried on. 
“As cramped as this place is it’s no surprise how on edge some of them are,” Faye chuckled. “Hardly enough room to spread me wings.” As they continued on, they made their way midtown to central park. Faye much preferred the more peaceful setting and quickly made her way over to the grand lake at the park’s center. “Now this is more like it,” She sighed. “Never was much of a city girl.” 
“I will admit, it is impressive.” Aurelian dolled out a rare compliment. “The wide commerce, textile production, eateries and a shipping port; I’ve known entire nations that could not produce as much as this one city.” 
“Too bad the shops don’t carry anything in my size… or fireproof for that matter.” Faye looked down at her reflection. “I imagine you could spend a whole week here and not see everything.” She perked up a the sound of excited cheering; she flew up and looked towards the northern end of the park where a ring had been set up. “Hey now, take a look at this!” She called down. 
“What is it?” Aurelian ascended to her side. 
“Looks like a good old fashioned contest,” She tossed her head towards the event. “Let’s have a look see.” They flew towards the gathering in time to overhear the promoter as he stood before a massive stallion. 
“Come on now!” He looked out over the gathered creatures. “Even after six opponents, the champ hasn't even broken a sweat! You telling me there aren’t any real males out there!?” The crowd jeered his taunt. “I’ll say it again then! Five thousand bits to the creature than can take down Wrought-iron!”  
“Hey now,” Faye smiled over at Aurelian. “We could use some of those bit things; we haven’t got a cent to our name and we can’t well enjoy our little vacation without some coin.” 
“You must be joking,” Aurelian slid his eyes over to her. “You wish me to lower myself to this pathetic spectacle?” 
“Aw come on, love… for me?” She cocked her head and batted her eyes. “We can have a fancy dinner after.” 
Aurelian held his eyes on her, ultimately sighing lightly and leaping into the air; he landed in the ring and brought silence to the crowd. 
“We….well… it appears we have another challenger.” The promoter eyed the striking figure before him. “An Alicorn no less.” 
“Let us be done with this quickly.” Aurelian faced the stallion. 
“Cocky,” Wrought-iron smirked. “Better let him know the rules first.” 
“Uh, right,” The promoter pointed at Aurelian. "This is a contest of skill and physical ability, the use of flight or magic is prohibited; do so and you’ll be disqualified.” 
“As if I would need magic to dispatch this so called warrior.” Aurelian scoffed. 
Wrought-iron growled and shoved the promoter over the rope and out of the ring. “All right then, show me what you’ve got!” With shoulders and forelegs twice the size of his flank and hind, the top heavy stallion slowly approached his stoic opponent. He lurched forward but did not elicit the slightest flinch from the Alicorn; with surprising speed for his size, he rocked left and brought his right hoof around and into Aurelian’s cheek.
Aurelian’s head whipped to the side and slowly returned forward with a mocking chuckle. “It seems magic is not the only thing to weaken over the thousands of years; even the legendary strength of the Earth Ponies is but a shadow of its former self.” The smallest of smiles formed on his lips. “If you are indeed a champion, I pity your sport.” 
“What!?” Wrought-iron flustered. “You…” 
Aurelian backhoofed him across the face and sent him collapsing into the corner in a heap. The stunned crowd remained in frightened silence as Aurelian flew from the right and landed before the promoter. “This mockery of a challenge is done, provide Faye the reward she seeks.” 
“I… I…” 
“That would be me, love.” Faye landed at his side. 
“Yes…” The promoter hurried over to his betting table and returned with a large sack of bits. “Here you are.” 
Faye took it in her wing. “How about you split it?” 
Aurelian levitated the sack, rending the cloth and quickly forming two smaller ones from its pieces; dividing the bits in half he strapped one to his hip and the other to Faye’s left leg. Without further word they left, a medic rushing in to look at the fallen champion. As intended, Faye very forwardly asked around about restaurants until being told about The Terrace, rooftop dining overlooking all of Manehatten. A very nervous waiter led the conspicuous pair to a table at the edge of the roof, all the city on display below them.  
“Would you look at that, love; it may be cramped but from way up here it sure is a sight. It’s been ages since we’ve had a night like this.” Faye gazed down at the lights below; with a laugh, she looked back across the table. “Say, do you remember that first night after you came to my island?” 
“Yes,” He nodded. “Your cult was leading to many dignitaries vanishing from their duties to partake in your… festivities. I was tasked by the Alliance to investigate.” 
“Yeah,” She chuckled. “All handsome, formal and serious; couldn’t wait to get me talons into you and corrupt you proper.” A smile of fond remembrance washed over her. “You never caved in though, no matter how hard I tried. I think that’s why I always kept coming back to you; you were so much fun, even though you never meant to be.” 
Aurelian thought far back to the encounter. “I was young, naïve… that was long before life changed; before Aestus’ fall and before I came to see the Alliance and the world for what they really were.” 
“Excuse me,” A voice broke Aurelian’s fogged thought as a Crystal Pony appeared at their table side. “Forgive the wait, may I take your order?” 
“I’m interested in this vegetarian pasta.” Faye ordered. 
“The same.” Aurelian ordered. 
"Of course.” The Pony nodded. 
“Hey, how come you’re all shiny?” Faye asked without tact. “Never seen a Pony all glistening before.” 
“Huh?” The waiter looked at her in confusion. “I’m… from the Crystal Empire, ma’am.” 
“Crystal Empire?” Faye repeated. “Haven't heard of that one before; how about you, love?” 
“No, I have not.” Aurelian eyed the Pony. “Where is this Empire?” 
“Um, to the northwest.” He answered. “If you’ll excuse me, I’ll put your order in.” 
“Sorry, thank you sweetie.” Faye reared her wing back and smacked his flank as he headed off. “Sounds like a fun place, we should have a look.” 
“Very well.” Aurelian nodded. 
“After dinner, how about we check out one of those hotel things I’ve been hearing about.” Faye suggested. 
“It would be best to rest in the areas beyond the city.” He countered. 
“Oh?” Faye grinned. “Too scared to be alone in a room with me?” 
“More so that the room would not survive your antics.” Aurelian smiled. 



Spending the night in the hills beyond the city, the following dawn was followed by a two day long excursion to the Crystal Empire. The third morning found them high above the visually stunning realm of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor. By sheer coincidence, the Empire was celebrating Shining Armor’s birthday so the streets were lively as was the palace. Aurelian and Faye touched down amongst the activity and looked about at the celebrating Ponies. 
“Ha, think they knew we were coming?” Faye asked. 
“Doubtful, it has been a long time since my arrival anywhere was celebrated.” Aurelian noted as they began walking the crystalline roads. They made their way towards the palace, catching the eye of the guards who immediately hurried to warn the royal family as Celestia’s prior word of Aurelian had already reached them. Before they reached the palace gates they were stopped by a procession of guards led by Cadence, Shining Armor and a visiting Twilight Sparkle. 
“Aurelian, Faye,” Twilight moved ahead to greet them.
“Oh, hello love,” Faye waved. “Fancy meeting you here.” 
“This is a surprise,” Twilight smiled up at Aurelian. “How has your trip been so far?” 
“Interesting at the least.” Aurelian answered shortly. “The amount of progress in your world is extensive.” 
“Hello,” Cadence greeted as she and Shining Armor joined them. “You must be the fabled Aurelian, Twilight and Celestia have written much to us about you.” 
“This is Princess Cadence,” Twilight introduced. “And Shining Armor, her husband and my big brother.” 
“A pleasure.” Shining Armor tipped his head. 
“Another Princess?” Faye eyed her. “How many have you got running around nowadays?” 
“The only other is my daughter, Flurry Heart.” 
“I take it some festivity is in motion.” Aurelian came in. 
“It’s my brother’s birthday.” Twilight informed.
“Yes, since you are here, we would love it if you would join us.” Cadence offered. 
“A party is it?” Faye smiled. “Good time is my middle name,” She elbowed Cadence with her wing. “Just ask around, Oooh hoo hoooo!” Faye started ushering everyone back towards the palace. 
They were led in to find much of the celebration in full swing; they moved to a quieter room so they could speak candidly away from the excited chatter. Cadence offered the history of her Empire, which came long after Aurelian’s self imposed isolation. It was the first time in some time he learned history he was not already privy to and he demonstrated sincere interest. Twilight asked about where they had visited thus far and was blown away at the revelation of what they had accomplished in Griffonstone. She was compelled to immediately teleport back to Canterlot to report the news to Celestia, which left the two pairs alone. 
“I’m starting to think that’s a bigger deal than we think it is, love.” Faye noted as she watched Twilight vanish.  
Cadence stood away from their table. “Excuse me, I do need to check on Flurry Heart for a moment.”
“Oh, mind if I take a look see?” Faye requested. “I do love little ones.” 
“Certainly,” Cadence smiled and led her towards the nursery, leaving Shining Armor alone with the still intimidating Alicorn. 
“Uh… so,” Shining Armor coughed uncomfortably. “How about those Canterlot Buckballers?” He smiled but is soon faded as Aurelian stared at him silently. 
Cadence crept into the nursery and found her daughter awake and chewing on her stuffed toy. “Well look who’s up already,” Cadence levitated her from the crib and into her hooves. Flurry smiled and laughed at the sight of her mother, hugging onto her happily. 
“Aw, what a sweetheart.” Faye approached, the little Alicorn staring up at the foreign creature in great interest. “Hello, love; aren’t you just the cutest little thing.” 
Cadence saw Flurry smile at Faye’s musical voice and held her up. “Would you like to hold her?” 
Faye quickly scooped her up in her wing and held her to her breast, tickling her stomach with the tip of her other wing. “The females on my island would pop out little ones right and left,” She began as she stared down into Flurry’s eyes. “Called me their Auntie Faye they did…” She sighed. “Oh, I do miss it.” 
“Did you have any of your own?” Cadence asked.
“No, hard to find another Grand Phoenix back then; I imagine even more so now.” 
“I certainly have never seen one,” Cadence confessed. 
“I’m like Aurelian, probably the last of me kind.” Faye explained with a sad smile. “A Phoenix can live forever, but it doesn’t mean we can’t be killed.” 
“Why would anyone want that?” 
“It was common back in the day, love. Creatures thought that our bodies and ashes could be used to gain immortality. Used to be all kind of experiments by mages and alchemists on us.” 
“How horrible.” 
“It was a different time,” Faye admitted. “I have to say, your world is a sight and a half better than the one I remember; no matter how much I may miss some parts.” She noticed that Flurry had fallen asleep again against her. Faye actually teared up as she looked down her, a host of memories flooding back to her at once. 
“Wow, she never falls asleep around strangers.” Cadence said in surprise. 
“Best lay her back down,” Faye passed her back. “Little ones need all the sleep they can get.” 
“Thank you,” Cadence whispered as she set Flurry back in her crib. “Guess we’d better check on the boys.” 
“Probably, I’m sure your husband is having the time of his life with Aurelian.” Faye chuckled as they headed back. They found them sitting quietly across from one another; Faye laughed at the sight and patted Shining Armor’s back. “Having fun?” 
“Yeah, don’t know about him though.” He glanced over at Aurelian. 
“Oh don’t mind him, he popped out of his mum with that look on his face.” Faye grinned as Aurelian’s eyes slid over to her. “But you’ve got a beautiful little girl, love.” 
“Thank you,” Shining Armor smiled proudly. “Cadence and Flurry are what keep me going now; I want to make sure I’m strong to keep them and our home safe.” He laughed and looked to Aurelian. “Not something you ever need to worry about I imagine, Twilight told us how powerful your magic is; I wish I had that kind of power.” 
Aurelian looked back at him. “No, you do not,” He responded shortly. “You have an Empire, a populous, a wife and a daughter that will be your legacy. I’ve known creatures that would kill to have what you enjoy; and you gained it without power such as mine.” He leaned forward. “Have you ever been feared, boy?” 
“What?” Shining Armor lightly shook his head. “No… I always try to be friendly and open with every creature.” 
“Power like mine is not meant to impress, garner allies or be lusted after by females… it is meant to be feared. I doubt you desire to have your very name send creatures running, to have your presence treated like a growing storm to be sheltered from, to have even your own wife and child walk upon eggshells in fear of what you could do if crossed.” He sat back again. “My power has come at costs you dare not imagine.” 
As heavy and chilling as his words were, Cadence could sense a sadness in him at the fact. “I guess that’s why you and Faye get along so well.” He saw Aurelian turn his attention to her. “You speak about being feared but it seems like you’re not as pleased about it as you might have once been. But Faye isn’t afraid of you at all, I can tell by how she is with you; I’m guessing that’s pretty important to you.” 
Aurelian paused in a way that suggested something had occurred to him that had escaped him before. “I suppose you are right.” He finally answered. 
Shining saw his self reflection and rose. “Hey, there’s a party going on in case you all forgot. How about we get out there before all the cake is gone?” 
“Today is pretty busy," Cadence began. "But if you’d like to stay, we’d be happy to give you a tour of the Empire tomorrow.” 
“That sounds lovely.” Faye looked to Aurelian. 
“We shall.” He nodded. 
The visiting duo joined the festivities, at least as much as Aurelian could muster; Faye on the other end quickly become the life of the party. The wild Phoenix out signing and dancing even the liveliest pony. Twilight eventually returned as well to help celebrate her brother’s birthday properly. That evening, Aurelian and Faye were shown to a grand room in the recesses of the castle; the opulent accommodation was a far cry from even the finest palace either of them could recall.
“Now this is rather nice,” Faye walked over to one of the beds. “And thankfully the bedding isn’t made out of crystal too.” She laughed, looking over at Aurelian who stared out the window into the evening sky. “You alright, love? Don’t tell me the party was too much for you.” 
Aurelian slowly looked back at her, much consideration in his eyes. “Do you truly not fear me, Faye?” 
Faye was a little shocked at the sudden question, surprised that what Cadence had suggested had stayed with him all night. “Of course not, love,” She smiled. “I know you’d never hurt me, no matter how much you might want to some times.” Her smile waned a bit. “Even when you crawled out of that pit they tried to bury you in and found out what had happened to the male Alicorns… I still wasn’t afraid of you… although I knew I couldn’t be near you.” Aurelian’s head lowered as he recalled what was undoubtedly the darkest chapter of his long life. “I wanted to though,” She assured. “I thought maybe if I could just fly up to you, wrap me wings around you and tell you it would be alright… maybe you’d have stopped; but I couldn’t, I knew you wouldn’t.” Faye could see how much her words struck him. “You’re not him anymore you know, you said it yourself. You may not be the same Aurelian, but that doesn’t make you weaker or lesser than you used to be; to be perfectly honest, I think this is my favorite version of you.” 
“I… am not sure what I am anymore,” Aurelian admitted. “The Princess referred to me as a lexicon, a source of lost knowledge that could benefit this modern world; she is right, in a manner of speaking. I am so unfamiliar with the mere basics of what is around me; I only know what things were, it leaves one feeling like a living anachronism.” 
Faye left her bed and flapped over to his back, wrapping her wings around him with a soft sigh. “It’ll be alright, love.”
Aurelian smiled as her head rested against his. “Thank you, Faye.” 



The following day, Cadence and Shining Armor personally took them around the Empire; detailing not only what was but what had changed and what they had planned for the future. Seeing the strangers in the company of their royal family made the Crystal Ponies less hesitant to approach them. Faye used their recently acquired funds to purchase a hefty travel pack and started filing it up with souvenirs. After some questions about the region, the pair parted ways with the Empire; following Cadence’s suggestion to visit Cloudsdale as Faye was not too keen on heading any further into the colder north. Ascending to the clouds and into the Pegasi capitol, Aurelian landed on the fluffy surface.
“Well this seems a nice plaaaaa!” Faye shouted as she fell through the clouds.
“You cannot walk upon the clouds, Faye.” Aurelian detailed as she flew back up.
“Oh really, thanks for the warning.” She eyed him as she hovered. 
“Give me your talons.” 
“Is that what you’re into now?” Faye smirked as she wriggled her digits. 
“Quiet,” Aurelian held her talons and cast a spell on them. “There, that will grant you temporary treading upon the clouds.” 
Faye planted her talons and tapped them. “Well how about that; thank you, love.”
The duo walked the ethereal roads of the city, eventually catching the eye of another familiar face.  
“Aurelian, Faye,” Fluttershy waved to them as she flew closer. “Hello.” 
“Oh, hello… uh, Fluttershy, right?” Faye asked with a wave.
“Yes,” Fluttershy landed before them. “I certainly didn’t expect to find you two here.”
“We just came from the Crystal Empire,” Faye informed. “Cadence said we should have a look see up here while we’re about.” 
“I was just on my way to see Rainbow Dash at the Wonderbolt compound,” Fluttershy pointed off to the distance. “Would you like to join me? I don’t think you’ve have a chance to really meet Rainbow.” 
“What is a Wonderbolt?” Aurelian asked. 
“They’re the most famous flight team in all of Equestria,” Fluttershy answered. “Rainbow Dash is part of the team.” 
“Very well, lead on.” He instructed. 
Fluttershy led them through Cloudsdale, telling them a little about the Pegasi city and what they did there. The militaristic Wonderbolt compound actually felt a little more familiar to Aurelian; reserve members and trainees performing drills across the expansive field. Rainbow Dash was looking up into the sky by the runway, watching the up and comers closely alongside Spitfire. 
“Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy called from behind. 
“Oh, there you are Shyyyyieee!” Rainbow jumped at who was in her company. “A… Aurelian!? “
“It’s okay, Dash; they’re here to visit.” Fluttershy calmly explained. 
“Yeah, no need to be so jumpy.” Faye assured. 
“Sir, ma’am,” Spitfire stood at attention. “It’s nice to meet you; we’ve heard about you even all the way up here since the incident with Cozy Glow.” 
“Just call me Faye, love.” Faye smiled. 
Aurelian noted the medals on her jacket. “I take it you lead these Wonderbolts?” 
“That’s correct,” Spitfire confirmed. “We’re the best in the business.” 
“Got that right,” Rainbow Dash added. “A lot of imitators, but nothing beats the real deal.” 
“Even in my time, the Pegasi’s pride and prowess in the sky was honored; it is good to see that somethings have not changed over the thousands of years.” Aurelian commended. 
“Did you have anything like the Wonderbolt’s back then?” Spitfire asked. 
“No,” Aurelian shook his head. “There was no time for such recreational displays. Even so, relations with the Pegasi were vital; their superiority in the skies and influence on the weather changed the course of far more than one war.” 
“Was there a Cloudsdale?” Rainbow Dash asked further.
“No, I do not know when this haven was founded; it was likely after my final return to Tartarus.” Aurelian explained. “The Pegasi city was formerly located over the south seas, a massive citadel of cloud and metal that was well protected from all but the most powerful foes.” 
“Whoa… awesome,” Rainbow Dash looked over at Spitfire. “We should have one of those.” 
“We don’t need a citadel, Crash.” Spitfire assured with a smirk. 
“Rainbow, are you still coming with me for lunch?” Fluttershy cut in. 
“Oh, yeah; I remembered.” Rainbow Dash leapt into the air. “Let me change, be right back!” She sped off with a blur. 
Fluttershy looked up at Aurelian. “We’re going to my parents' house, would you like to join us? I’d love for you to meet them.” 
“Always up for a good meal,” Faye nodded. “Sounds a delight.” Aurelian nodded silently in agreement.
“I’ll get back to work then,” Spitfire saluted. “Enjoy the rest of your time in Cloudsdale.” She headed up into the sky to see to her recruits. 
As soon as Rainbow Dash returned, the quartet headed into the suburbs of Cloudsdale to the Shy family home. Fluttershy knocked on the door and waited until her mother opened up, her eyes widening in great surprise at her extra guests. 
“Mom, you remember Aurelian and Faye, I wrote to you about them.” Fluttershy gestured back. 
“Uh… yes honey… I… I do,” She stepped back from the door. “Please, come in.” 
“Thank you, love.” Faye followed Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash inside, Aurelian shutting the door with his magic. 
“Dear?” Mrs. Shy called back into the house. “We’ve got some extra guests for lunch.” 
“Not a problem sweeti…” Mr. Shy walked in to find the ancient Alicorn and the Grand Phoenix in his living room. “Oh my, you weren’t kidding.” He chuckled. 
“I’m sorry,” Mrs. Shy apologized. “Please, join us out on the rear deck; we have tea and sandwiches ready.” 
“Could always go for a cup of tea,” Faye bobbed along after her. 
“Yeah, I’m starving.” Rainbow Dash added. 
After getting their guests settled, Mr. Shy sighed with a light smile. “You know, I’m always amazed at the incredible friends our daughter keeps making.” He patted his little girl on the shoulder. “Seems just yesterday she was playing in her room, now she’s off saving Equestria and meeting all manner of fantastic creatures.” 
Aurelian eyed Fluttershy. “Your daughter has proven to be a sound mind, truly in touch with the natural order of things; a rare quality even amongst those claiming to be scholars.” 
“Why thank you,” Fluttershy beamed. “That means a lot coming from some creature like you.” 
“You must be right proud,” Faye suggested. “Not every parent can say their daughter helped save the world.” 
“Oh we are,” Mrs. Shy assured. “Bow and Windy feel just the same about their Rainbow Dash; between the two of them we’ve gotten to learn and experience so much.” 
“Speaking of which,” Fluttershy came in. “How has your travelling been going? It must be exciting to see everything as if it was your first time.” 
“Your time is loads of fun, love,” Faye confessed. “I always used to hate how much time and energy went into conflict; but you lot seem to have finally figured that out for yourselves. All the art and music and food; I love it.” 
“What about you, Aurelian?” Fluttershy turned her attention to him. “What do you think of how things are now?” 
Aurelian sat in consideration for a moment. “There are many factors that create a moment in history,” He began. “The state of the physical world, the culture and beliefs of the creatures that inhabit that world and the available resources upon which those creatures sustain themselves. I have seen countless moments in history; over the course of which I fell into my ultimate philosophy of life that one cannot change the ultimate neutral point of balance that existence seeks to maintain.” He paused in reflection. “That being said, having seen your time, perhaps I was missing something; I had not considered the fact that that neutral point could, in theory, move itself.” 
“Huh?” Rainbow Dash sat blankly at his words. 
“What exactly are you saying?” Mrs. Shy asked. 
“I am saying, that the neutral point of balance in your time is entirely different from the one I had grown used to. The world and its creatures have undeniably grown weaker over the course of history and the Centaur’s brother suggested that was something for the best. That the loss of creatures’ power over the generations is what gave the world the ability to enjoy these more peaceful times. The factors I mentioned before, they themselves have changed so drastically that the very paradigm of what constitutes good, evil, war and peace have also changed in tandem. Your neutral point is, by nature’s design, a more peaceful one than even the most influenced peace of my time.”  
Mr. Shy gathered as much as he could from that and smiled. “In more basic terms, the world is just a better place.” 
“Indeed.” Aurelian nodded. 
“It must be nice for you not to have to worry about all that stuff anymore.” Fluttershy added. “You can finally relax.”
“He’s trying,” Faye patted his back. “I have to drag him kicking and screaming sometimes, but he’s trying.” She laughed. 
Following lunch, Aurelian and Faye took some time to take in more of the city before moving on. They spent the night out under the stars with plans to continue westward the following morning. They traveled to the north-western coast to Vanhoover and moved south along the coastline; Faye very much enjoying the beaches and the warmer climate. Even further they explored some of the more remote regions, coming across more simple outlying villages and settlements that contrasted the vibrant cities and empires. Aurelian found it odd that they were always welcomed without question; while their presence was certainly cause for pause, once they demonstrated no harm they were offered what sights, sounds and delicacies were available. While not outwardly voicing it, deep down, there was a part of him that felt free in not being the feared destroyer he once was. Faye reveled in their trip as the months rolled by; absorbing all the varied cultures with her typically open mind. Zebras, Kirin, Buffalo and Deer; all creatures she had never even seen before much less had the opportunity to interact with, offered her what she loved most in life which was new experience. Eventually, they worked their way into Saddle Arabia; the mystic and ancient region feeling more akin to what they were used to in their own time. Seeing a large collection of tents and canvas shades by the river bank, they landed in the midst of the busy streets and brought a halt to the activity. The locals gasped in awe and slowly approached them with enamored eyes. 
“Did you do something here a long time ago?” Faye whispered over to Aurelian. 
“No.” Aurelian looked around at the gathering crowd. 
“This is truly an amazing day,” One of the stallions spoke up. “A Grand Phoenix is here in our great market.” 
“Wait,” Faye cocked her head. “You… know about me?” 
“Oh yes, miss,” He continued. “Your kind have long been revered in this region; the last known interaction with one such as yourself was over two thousand years ago.” 
“This must a sign of fortune!” A mare called out. 
“Well, they certainly have good taste.” Faye rocked her head proudly. 
“It seems that this time your reputation is the one to precede.” Aurelian glanced back to see two armored stallions approach. 
“How wondrous,” One of them spoke. “And on the anniversary of the Prince’s wedding no less.” They both bowed to Faye. “Grand Phoenix, we represent the court of Prince Al-Hoofur, surely your arrival is a sign of good tidings for his majesty. Would you accompany us back to the palace as our honored guest?” 
“A wedding anniversary?” Faye smiled down at Aurelian. “How romantic, we’d love to.” 
“Oh thank you,” The stallions rose. “The Prince will be most surprised by this; if you would follow.”  
Faye and Aurelian followed them from the marketplace and out into the sand; they trekked for several miles before reaching the thick walls of a stunning city. As they proceeded down the streets, amazed stallions and mares stopped in their tracks at the sight of Faye who merrily waved at them as they continued on. The opulent palace was no less impressive and music rang from its interior in celebration of the day’s occasion. The pair were led to the grand hall where tables upon tables of food lined the walls. Live music was being played and over a hundred creatures, some obviously visiting from other nations, cavorted across the massive space. They were brought before a handsome young stallion and the beautiful mare at his side. 
“Prince,” One of them called his attention. “We have brought very special guests.” 
The Prince turned and his eyes widened in shock. “A… Grand Phoenix? Here?” 
“Just call me Faye,” Faye waved off the formality. “Quite a party you’ve got going here.” 
“Oh my,” The mare looked over them. “Never in my life would I have imagined meeting a legendary creature such as yourself, in the company of a male Alicorn no less.” 
“This is Aurelian,” Faye introduced. “He and I go way back… uh, waaaay back.” 
“I am Prince Al-Hoofur,” The Prince tipped his head in respect. “And this is my beloved wife Karima.” 
“A pleasure, dear.” Faye gave her a gentle smile. 
“It is an honor.” She bowed.
“Now now, no need for all that,” Faye dismissed. “This is your day isn’t it? Then how about you let us help you celebrate it proper?”
“We would be most appreciative if you would stay and join us.” The Prince offered. 
Aurelian saw Faye looking at him expectantly. “Very well.” 
As always, the living spectacle that was Faye quickly raised the bar for the rest of the guests. She and Aurelian indulged in the foreign cuisine and enjoyed the melody of the stringed instruments. A great crowd gathered as the Prince was treated to a rather enticing ribbon dance performed by several striking mares. Not to be outdone, Faye leapt up to join them, using her wings as fans and putting on a show all her own that had the room cheering. At the height of it all, Faye pulled Aurelian to the room’s center and the two of them shared a dance they had not shared since his promotion to commander of the Alliance’s forces long ago. She grinned from ear to ear as he finally seemed to shed his shell and she saw a side of him that she had long missed. As the cool night set in, the festivities moved outside and a great fire was built that licked far up into the night sky. The music and dance carried on and the celebration went well into the night. As the hour grew later and things finally began to calm, Faye realized that she had gotten separated from Aurelian at some point. She flew up and looked around, finding him laying on a knoll overlooking the activity. She swooped down and landed at his side, looking down at him with judging eyes. 
“I swear, as soon as I leave you alone you head off to brood somewhere.” 
“Not brooding, merely… wondering.” He responded. 
“About what?” Faye nestled beside him. 
Aurelian looked out at the great fire, the ponies dancing and laughing under its great warmth and light. “Do I have any right to enjoy this? After the things I have done in life, it seems… unjust that I be allowed to live in this peaceful world.” 
“Aurelian,” Faye sighed. “Who knows?” She asked simply. “Yeah, you’ve done some awful things… but you’ve also done amazing things as well; and that was all thousands of years ago now.” She looked at him with sad eyes. “You know, when you told me you decided to return to your prison to isolate yourself, I couldn’t help but imagine how horrid that must have been. All alone in the dark, nothing but your memories replaying over and over.” She shook her head. “I don’t know if you’re looking for some kind of penance or what, but it sounds to me like you’ve punished yourself enough.” She pointed her wing out towards the party. “Tonight was the first night I finally saw you let go and just enjoy life; you need to let go, love. We’re here now and we’re not going anywhere anytime soon, I want to enjoy it… with you,” She set her beak to his cheek with a long breath. “I love you, you know," She let out a small laugh. "In case you haven’t noticed.” 
Aurelian felt his long silent heart lower in his chest. “I do… I have…” He turned his eyes to her. “And not once in my life have I ever felt deserving of that which you continually offer me.” He sighed greatly. “A hero, a villain, a destroyer and a conqueror... my existence has been slowly dissected by time and experience, losing pieces of myself here and there as the failures, losses and utter defeats piled upon me. But… when I learned what had happened to you, even though I was not fully aware of it at the time, I lost something truly vital. From my greatest achievement to my lowest point, you were always there; a light that helped me keep one hoof in the world around me, but a light I always lacked the courage to step into." His eyes drifted up to the moon. "In losing that light I truly lost my way; and only now, on this seemingly benign trip, have I realized how much having you there meant to me.” He pulled away and looked into her eyes, a combination of deep regret and blooming happiness swirling in his own. “I am sorry it has taken me nearly nine thousand years to appreciate that.” 
Faye smiled brightly, her eyes watered over. “Better late than never, love.” 
“I do not know what happens in life from this point on, but I would ask that you remain with me to see it through.” 
With a light sniffle Faye nodded. “Nowhere I’d rather be.” 
Aurelian unfurled his wing and pressed it against hers, the broad feathers at their tips intertwining like laced fingers. “Thank you.” 
Faye cuddled next to him, looking out at the fire with utter cheer in her heart. “So, where to from here?” 
“I do not know; we’ve still four months before we must return to Elder Island.” Aurelian noted. “Let us merely go where the wind takes us.” 
“Sounds lovely,” Faye squeezed him closer. “But uh… how about we make it somewhere a little more private.” Her brows bounced suggestively. 
Aurelian laughed and nodded. “As you wish, Faye.” He laid his head to hers and watched the remaining hours of the celebration.