“Bardac? Bardac! Answer me!” Twilight called out through the thick smoke that surrounded her. She was sure she was in the right place, but everything just looked so different after the explosion. The ground was burnt to a crisp, crackling underneath her hooves and if it wasn't for the protective spell she cast around herself, she was sure the ground would be scorching her fur.

“Down here,” replied Bardac through the smoke. “Mind the edge. Lok.”

Twilight had to brace herself when air around her churned violently, the smoke vanishing within seconds. “Bardac, are you...” muttered Twilight. She didn't have words for what she saw when the last traces of smoke cleared. The chamber which the tatzlwurms were in was no more, as were the tatzlwurms. All that was left was a smouldering crater littered with ash. Moonlight flooded into the crater, highlighting the charred earth below and as Twilight stared at the night sky, she couldn't quite fathom the destructive power needed to create this.

“On the bright side. They taste good,” said Bardac, crunching loudly on something. “A little on the chewy side though...”

Twilight blinked. “What are you on about?” she asked, finally looking down into the crater to see Bardac sat on a boulder. A chunk of charred meat dangled from his hand. “Please tell me that's not what I think it is...” Slowly sliding down the edge of the crater, she approached the Nord.

Bardac glanced over, taking another bite out of the meat. “Food is food,” he replied, watching Twilight when he noticed the distinct lack of another. “Rolph get caught in the blast?” he asked, sounding less than concerned.

Shaking her head, Twilight replied, “No. I had to teleport us back to the main chamber before your spell went off. I don't think even my strongest shield could of protected us against it.” Usually, she would be trying to learn everything she could about the spell Bardac used. But something told her now wasn't the time, even if the magic still lingering in the air was making her horn tingle. “Can you move?”

“A little, but not much,” said Bardac, looking down at the meat that had just slipped from his fingers onto the floor. “I used the last of my strength to unearth and break the source. Turns out large gems are more difficult to break than I thought. Though... my biggest surprise was it was actually here.”

“Break as in pieces or break as in completely obliterated?” asked Twilight, looking around for any signs of the gem that Bardac found. “

“Obliterated,” said Bardac. “I wanted to make sure there was no chance of it ever being used again.” Sighing loudly, Bardac glanced over to Twilight. “I do not suppose you could find a way of getting me out of here?”

Sighing thankfully, Twilight smiled and said, “Thought you'd never ask. I'm sure Atlas will be pleased to hear this problem has finally been dealt with.” Stepping closer to Bardac, Twilight's horn lit up brightly and with a loud crack, teleported the pair back to the main chamber where Atlas and the other diamond dogs were waiting.

When they returned to the main chamber, they were greeted with nothing but silence and a few expectant stares. It took Bardac a few seconds to realise what they were waiting for and when he did, he said, “It is done. The source is destroyed.” Groaning loudly, Bardac laid back on the cool and slightly soothing earth.

The chamber erupted in an almighty roar of cheers and applause. “Well done Bardac, well done,” cheered Atlas as he came over, looking down at the Nord. “Though, may I say. You look terrible.”

“We can't celebrate just yet,” interrupted Twilight as she glanced over to the corner of the chamber. “What're you going to do with him?”

Looking over, Bardac saw what she was talking about. Attached to heavy shackles was Rolph, looking as though he had suffered a rather nasty lynching. “That is not my choice to make... while I do not condone lynching,” said Bardac after a few seconds of consideration. “It looks as though he has gotten what he deserves. As much as it pains me to say, there is little we can do for him now.”

“I couldn't of stopped them even if I tried,” sighed Atlas. “There are still a few among us who want to see him killed for what he's done to the pack. But, that would make us as bad as him.” Though Atlas couldn't help but feel a little remorse as he watched a drop of blood trickle down Rolph's face from a nasty gash in his forehead. “As much as he demands death. We shall not give in.”

“Shame...” muttered Bardac, slowly easing himself onto his elbows for a better look at Rolph. “But, it would seem that now the pack is no longer under his control, his strength means naught against numbers. I prey that some day he sees sense and once again becomes a valued member of your pack.”

Atlas grumbled quietly, “I hope so Bardac. I truly do. But, at least now we have the strength in numbers to keep him under control.”

Twilight looked around the main chamber, everything seemed to be in a state of relative calm, for now at least. “So... are we done here?” she asked hopefully. “I don't know about you, but I could really do with a shower... and a nap.”

“I might as well ask while I am still here... is there anything else you need, Atlas?” asked Bardac, looking over to the old diamond dog.

“You have done more for us than any creature ever has,” replied Atlas, smiling wide. “You've given us back our home and our lives. It is tragic that some perished before this matter was resolved, but... perhaps now we can start to rebuild.” Bowing low, he added, “Please do not hesitate to call on us if you need our help. We are indebted to you, Bardac.”

Groaning loudly, Bardac finally managed to sit up, his hands resting on his knees. “I would be a liar if I said I did not enjoy myself. It has certainly brushed off a few cobwebs,” he chuckled, though his expression soon hardened. “If Rolph gives you any problems... as in if he so much as sneezes without your say so. Send a letter to Applejack's farm, as long as it is addressed to me, I will find it.”

“You sure that's a good idea?” asked Twilight. “You know Applejack isn't too fond of diamond dogs.”

“I am sure she will not mind once I explain to her what they are for,” answered Bardac, stretching out his arms above his head. “You know... I am surprised we have not had the royal guard knocking down the forest looking for me.”

Twilight blinked before tilting her head curiously. “Why do you say that?” she asked.

Chuckling loudly, Bardac said, “You are not the only one with orders to keep an eye on me. I am sure Light Flight will be rather... curious to my whereabouts if she found out I am no longer in Ponyville.”

“You're telling me this NOW?” groaned Twilight, hitting her forehead with her hoof. “I knew she was looking for you while you escaped Canterlot, but I didn't know she was still keeping an eye on you. I thought she stopped that once we found you in Ponyville.”

Atlas rubbed the back of his head, grinning slightly as he said. “It sounds to me as though you need to get back to Ponyville as soon as possible. Have they been on your case for long? Even among us diamond dogs, the royal guards are well known.”

“Ever since I appeared in Canterlot,” replied Bardac. “I must say... for a pony. Light Flight has many qualities of a hawk. She does not miss much.”

“Then I suggest we better get back before any more time passes. I think we've been gone for long enough,” said Twilight. Rubbing the back of her head, she looked over at Atlas. “I hope you'll accept my apologizes. It seems I was wrong about diamond dogs. Not all of you are bad.”

Bowing slightly, Atlas smiled and said, “Thank you for showing me that not all ponies are oblivious to our cause. Please pass my regards to Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie when you next see them. Goodbye Twilight and goodbye Bardac. Thank you again.”

Twilight smiled and with blinding flash from her horn, teleported Bardac and herself out of the main chamber. Despite learning more in that day about diamond dogs than any book could teach her, Twilight still hoped that was the last time she found herself that far underground with them.

“He's WHERE?!” hissed Light Flight, staring into the stoic face of Big Mac. “And you just let him walk out on his own?!”

“Princess Twilight was with him,” replied Big Mac, chewing slowly on a piece of straw hanging from his mouth. “Who're you again?”

Light Flight ground her teeth together as she said, “I am the captain of the pegasus royal guards. Light Flight.”

Big Mac chewed a little more on his straw. “As I said. I ain't seen him come back,” he said, his voice as neutral as ever. “Now if you're done. I got chores to do.” With a dip of his head, Big Mac disappeared into the barn, leaving a fuming Light Flight to pace back and forth in front of the doors.

“Why in the name of sweet Celestia would he go into the Everfree Forest? With Princess Twilight no less!” seethed Light Flight. “And what was with that stallion? I've never met anypony so stubborn!”

“That'd be my brother,” said Applejack as she appeared out of the front door of her home. “You'll have to pardon him. He ain't too keen on guards.” Stretching out, Applejack smiled warmly. “Now, did I hear right? You're lookin' for Bardac? He arrived at some stupid hour this mornin' with Twilight, covered in all sorts of who knows what. He had a wash in the barn, now he's upstairs sleepin'. I wouldn't disturb him, though I doubt an earthquake could wake him up now.”

Light Flight knew better than to barge upstairs and wake him. “Did he say anything when he came back?” she asked.

“Nothin' that made any sense,” said Applejack, tapping her chin. “You're welcome to hang around till he wakes up, but who knows when that'll be.”

“And what of Princess Twilight?” asked Light Flight. “Is she here as well?”

Applejack shook her head and said, “Na, Twilight went home soon as they got back. Don't blame her, what ever they were covered in stunk worse than a pile of fresh manurer on a scorchin' hot day!” Chuckling loudly, Applejack stretched out again, “As I said, you're welcome to hang around till he wakes up. But I think you'd be waitin' for a while.”

“I do not think she will...”

“Bardac!” called Applejack, looking up to see Bardac's head hanging out of the window above them. “Ain't you suppose to be sleepin'?”

Bardac yawned widely and rubbed underneath his eyes. “Suppose to being the key word here... you are exceptionally loud, you know that?” he said, looking down at the orange farm pony. It was only then that he noticed Light Flight. “Oh, Light Flight. What are you doing here?”

“Sight seeing,” growled Light Flight. “What do you think I'm doing? I'm looking for you, you great oaf. Princess Celestia wanted a report on how you're settling in but you went and pulled another disappearing act.”

Applejack stuck her tongue out. “Well what do you expect? We're farm ponies! We don't do quiet,” she said with a snicker. “Seein' that you're awake, why don't you get your flank down here! I think Light Flight wants a word with you.”

“Duly noted...” yawned Bardac. “Alright, alright... give me a minute then.” Though it took more than a couple of minutes, eventually a groggy Bardac appeared at the front door of Applejack's home. His usual armour was gone and all that adorned his hairy body was a pair of thick undergarments that covered what needed to be.

“Now I weren't expectin' that...” muttered Applejack, her eyes widening at the sight of Bardac's chest and torso. “You've been put through the ringer a few times.”

Looking down at the criss-cross of battle scars littering his chest, Bardac said, “This is fairly common in Skyrim. I am considered lightly scarred compared to some I have met.”

“You don't say,” chuckled Applejack as she took the chance to glance around at Bardac's back, just to see if it was the same as the front. “Eh? Your back ain't got any. Least none like the front.”

It wasn't Bardac that replied, but Light Flight. “Never let your enemies get behind you huh? Should of expected that...” she said, casting a searching gaze on him. “I don't know whether to be pleased or disturbed that you know one end of a sword from the other.”

“Hey now, ain't that just a little bit harsh?” asked Applejack. “I know he's caused you some problems, but he ain't been nothin' but nice to us.”

“It is alright, Applejack,” said Bardac, scratching at his beard with an innocent smile. “Now, onto matters at hand. You can tell Celestia that I am perfectly fine. A little tired, but otherwise in good health.”

“So, you just took a walk into the Everfree Forest for no reason. With Princess Twilight. Then came back covered in every nasty thing under the sun from what Applejack tells me,” said Light Flight, not buying Bardac's air of innocence one bit.

“If you do not believe me, you are more than welcome to go and speak with Twilight. I am sure she will tell you exactly the same thing,” said Bardac. “Now... if you will excuse me. I am going back to sleep.” And before Light Flight could say another word, Bardac walked back inside to bed.

Light Flight had to bite her tongue, she didn't know why but there was just something about Bardac that infuriated her. “I guess I need to go speak to Princess Twilight...” she finally said through gritted teeth and took off without another word.

A few seconds later, Bardac stuck his head out of the window above Applejack. “She gone?” he asked.

“Yup, should be outta ear shot too,” replied Applejack, snickering loudly.

“Good...” muttered Bardac. “Twilight can tell her... nosy bugger.” Grumbling loudly, Bardac withdrew his head and went back to bed.

“Spike? Spike! Have you seen my last bottle of ink?”

“I think it's under the desk where you left it!”

“Ah, thank you!” chuckled Twilight as she retrieved the almost empty bottle and opened it before setting it on the desk in front of her. “I must get some more, almost running out.” As her quill hovered just above her nose, she dipped it into the dredges of ink at the bottom.

“Are you sure you don't want to get some sleep?” asked Spike as he appeared next to Twilight, looking down at the notes she was furiously scribbling away at. “What're you writing anyway?”

Twilight smiled and leant over to give Spike a nudge with her shoulder. “None of your business, nosey dragon,” she giggled. “But if you really must know. I've got some notes to make about a certain species that need a major update from the books.”

Spike rolled his eyes, though he couldn't help but smile. “Shall I make some coffee then?” he asked. “This is the third all night you've pulled, you're going to need something to ke—” Just then, there was a knock on the door. “I'll get it!” But before he could even turn to the door, it had already opened.

“Please excuse the intrusion, Princess Twilight,” called out Light Flight as she walked in and saluted with her wing. “But I needed to make sure with my own eyes that you are safe and well.”

“If ponies are just gonna walk in, why do we even have doors,” huffed Spike as he crossed his arms and disappeared into the kitchen.

Twilight blinked before turning around on her stool. “Of course I'm well, why wouldn't I be?” she asked curiously, tilting her head.

Light Flight exhaled slowly and said, “Forgive me, when I heard you and Bardac travelled into the Everfree Forest. I had cause for concern.” Looking over her shoulder at the direction of Applejack's barn. “I don't trust Bardac... He's... too different.”

“Just because he's different, doesn't mean he's more or less dangerous than anypony else around here,” snapped Twilight, frowning. “Besides, being different has nothing to do with it.” Getting off her stool, Twilight stretched out. “You simply need to get to know him.”

Taking a step back, Light Flight raised an eyebrow. She didn't quite expect to get snapped at like that. “And how would you know?” she asked. “According to Bardac, all you two did was go for a walk. How exactly could you end up in life threatening situations?”

“You mean he didn't tell you?” replied Twilight, tilting her head.

“Tell me what?...” asked Light Flight, though she wasn't quite sure she wanted to know the answer.

“About the diamond dogs and the dragon,” said Twilight. Tapping her chin thoughtfully. “Still, it was nothing compared to what the girls and I have faced in the past. So there's no reason to worry.”

“He... you... WHAT?!” gawked Light Flight, her eye twitching.

Twilight sighed deeply, “Spike! Put the kettle on!” Guiding the fuming Light Flight from the doorway onto the nearby sofa, she let out a curious hum, “I'm surprised Bardac didn't tell you. Then again, I have noticed when he's tired or annoyed it's best not to try and get any sense out of him.”

Still fuming, Light Flight sat down roughly on the sofa, her wings rustling in irritation. “I swear he's doing it on purpose,” she said, trying to calm her slight frazzled temper.

“Is it really so important that you know everything that he does?” asked Twilight, helping herself to a cookie from a bowl on the table. “I don't think he's doing it on purpose, I just think you caught him at a bad time. He was completely exhausted when we left.”

Spike, reappearing with two mugs of hot coffee grasped in his claws said, “From what Twilight's told me about this Bardac guy, he doesn't sound all that bad.” Putting the coffee down on the table, he looked over at Light Flight. “Can I get you anything else? Something to eat?”

“I'm alright,” replied Light Flight, shaking her head slowly. “I guess what he said wasn't all smoke and mirrors...” Though why she was remembering the words that Bardac had spoken now was beyond her.

Twilight cocked her head. “Something he said?” she asked. “What do you mean? Did something else happen while he was in Canterlot?”

Light Flight picked up her coffee and took a slow sip. “It doesn't matter. It's not my place to explain what happened,” she said, staring into her coffee. “I just don't trust him. I can't put my hoof on why or what it is.”

Twilight coughed, “Well... I admit there's something strange about him. But, we managed to convince the town to forgo what somepony looks like or acts like. I mean just look at Spike!” Chuckling softly, she gave the dragon's head a ruffle with the tip of her wing. “Usually ponies stay well away from dragons. But Spike here managed to show an entire town that dragon's are not as bad as we thought.”

Blushing, Spike looked away and rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. “Well, I've got Pinkie Pie to thank for that. As well as half a wagon full of pies,” he said with a wide grin.

Light Flight wasn't sure to laugh or stay quiet. So she settled with taking a small sip of her coffee. “Well... yes... but Spike is a child. Bardac, what ever he is, is fully grown,” she said with a shake of her head. “We're getting off topic here.”

“Captain? Captain are you in there?” called a voice from behind Twilight's front door.

Groaning loudly, Light Flight put her coffee down, walked over to the door and swung it open. “What is it?” she growled.

Saluting with a wing, the stallion guard in front of her spoke loud and clear. “Captain, we've got a situation.”

“Clearly, otherwise you wouldn't be talking to me right now,” replied Light Flight, she didn't quite mean to speak so venomously. “Spit it out already, Thun Drum.”

Thun Drum sighed and stepped to the side. “We... seem to have caught those two thieves we've been after for a few weeks. The situation is, they gave up without a fight. They haven't stopped babbling about a monster who talks in a strange tongue and walks upright on two legs. In fact, they ran straight to the nearest guard and gave themselves up!”

“You've got to be kidding me...” groaned Light Flight, slapping her hoof to her head. “Where were they when they gave up?” she asked, glancing down at the two ponies who were tied up tightly in thick rope. Both of them looked almost thankful to be in the hooves of the guards.

Looking over his shoulder at the thieves, Thun Drum said, “I believe they approached a patrol near Sweet Apple Acres.” Scratching at his head, he pondered. “Forgive me for asking but... is there such a creature that exists? I don't recall reading any reports of one.”

Giggling loudly, Twilight appeared in the doorway. “I can think of somepony that matches that description.” Looking over to the captured thieves, Twilight asked, “By chance did you come across this creature while it was sleeping?”

Both of the thieves nodded slowly, one even said, “Snorin' louder than a dragon...”

“This is turning out to be a bad joke,” grumbled Light Flight, glaring down at the tied up thieves. “Take them to Canterlot...”

“Yes, Captain,” said Thun Drum, saluting once again with his wing. “If they say anything else about the creature they encountered, I'll make sure the information gets to you as soon as possible.”

Light Flight shook her head slowly. “No need,” she sighed. “I'm pretty sure I have an idea on who's behind this.” Just then, Light Flight felt a wing across her back. Looking over her shoulder, she found herself looking at a smiling Twilight. “Princess?”

Twilight continued to smile, even after she took her wing off Light Flight's back. “This might seem like a crazy idea, but why don't you invite Bardac to join you on a patrol around Canterlot? You can't deny he'll come in useful if something happens. What with Canterlot market going on, an extra set of eyes is always a bonus.”

Gritting her teeth, Light Flight looked away. She didn't want to say that Twilight had a point, but the more she thought about it, the more the pros out-weighed the cons. “Fine,” she said after a minute or two to consider her options. “But Princess Twilight, what makes you think he'll actually accept? He hasn't shown much willingness to do anything besides what he wants to do.”

“Boredom,” chuckled Twilight. “I can assure you Bardac is not the type to sit around and twiddle his thumbs.”

“Twiddle... his thumbs?” asked Light Flight, tilting her head in confusion.

“It's an expression I learnt from the minotaurs,” said Twilight. “It means he'd rather do anything than sit around doing nothing.”

Light Flight didn't seem so convinced. “If... you're sure,” she pondered. After a moment, Light Flight sighed. “Well... if anything. It means I get to keep a close eye on him and if Princess Celestia needs to speak with him. He'll already be in Canterlot.”

Twilight beamed and said gleefully, “Perfect! I'll talk to Bardac after lunch. He's usually more cheerful after he's had something to eat.” Though a moment later, Twilight tapped her chin. “You know? I might actually come as well! The market in Canterlot always has such wonderful things to buy.”

“Do you think that's wise?” asked Light Flight. “I know Princess Celestia has done her best to calm everypony down for Bardac's eventual return to Canterlot, but seeing him with you might cause some... excitement.”

“I don't think that'll be too much of a problem,” replied Twilight. “As unique and strange as Bardac is, I doubt anypony will be too keen on getting close to him. Plus I doubt anypony would want to give Bardac any trouble to start with.”

Light Flight rubbed her temples with the tips of her wings. “Alright, alright. You've made your point,” she muttered. “I really hope this isn't going to come back and bite me in the flank.”

“I'm sure it won't,” said Twilight with a reassuring smile. “Who knows? You might find you have something in common with him.”

Clearing his throat, Thun Drum spoke up. “Captain, forgive me for interrupting but should we get these two back to Canterlot?” Giving one of the thieves a nudge, he added. “For their own protection of course, they seem fairly keen on leaving.”

Light Flight sighed, “Might as well. Princess Celestia will be waiting to hear from me.” Looking over to Twilight, Light Flight bowed. “Thank you for your time, Princess Twilight. I'll see you and Bardac tomorrow when the market starts.” With a nod to Thun Drum, Light Flight escorted the two thankful looking thieves towards Ponyville station with Thun Drum following close behind.

Twilight watched as the four ponies walked out of sight before heading back inside. “That pony needs to learn how to relax. Maybe I'll ask Rarity to take her to the spa,” she said, tapping at her chin as she sat back down at her desk.

“I don't think she'd thank you for that,” replied Spike from the kitchen, though soon appeared with a steaming hot bowl of oatmeal in his claws. “Here, thought you could do with something to eat.”

Taking the bowl, Twilight let out a happy little squee. “Thanks Spike,” she said gratefully. She hadn't realised how hungry she was until she had the food in her hooves. “Tomorrow's going to be a good day. I can feel it.”

It was nearly lunch time when Bardac finally woke up. He was sore and he was stiff, no surprise considering since his arrival to Ponyville, he hadn't really managed to catch a break. With a low groan, Bardac started to untangle himself from the makeshift bed Applejack was kind enough to make for him and even though it only comprised of a pile of thick blankets, it was actually quite comfortable.

“Ah, you're up,” chuckled the voice of Applejack from the doorway. Leaning against the door frame, she peered in at Bardac. “Sleep well?”

“Under the circumstances. Yes, thank you,” replied Bardac with a small smile. Though he was rather thankful he decided to sleep in his thick shorts. Grabbing the rather ragged looking top he'd been wearing since his arrival, Bardac sighed, “Sentimental over clothes... I must be getting old.”

Applejack chuckled just a little louder. “I'm sure my friend Rarity could fix that right up for you. Anyway, throw on what ever you got and come on down for lunch. Twilight and Pinkie Pie are waitin' to see you.”

Bardac paused and looked over, tilting his head. “Did they say what they wanted?” he asked.

“Don't recall that they did,” answered Applejack, scratching at her chin. “They ain't been here long, so I reckon it'd be rude to keep them waitin'. See you downstairs.” With that, she left Bardac to get dressed in peace.

Downstairs, Twilight was busy flicking through the notes that she'd made for Bardac to go through for his arrival in Canterlot tomorrow, much to the dismay of Pinkie Pie who's usual approach was just to wing it.

“Twilight...” groaned Pinkie Pie for the forth time. “While I'm pretty sure you've covered all the basics, twice... I'm sure you've got nothing to worry about!”

“I know I know,” replied Twilight, skimming through the sixteenth page. “But I've got this nagging feeling in the back of my mind that I'm missing something incredibly important.” Flicking back through to the front page, Twilight let out a frustrated grumble. “This isn't just for Bardac's sake either. I want to show Light Flight that he's not as bad as she thinks he is.”

“What she got against him anyway?” asked Applejack as she appeared through the doorway. “He ain't dangerous or nothin'. Sure he's strong, but so's Big Mac and he wouldn't hurt a fly!”

Pinkie Pie giggled, “But Big Mac can't use magic, or transform into a big, furry, mouth full of big sharp teeth beast, can he?”

Applejack blinked slowly. “Err... not that I know of,” she replied. “Wait, what'cha mean transform? Is there somethin' I should know about?”

“It can be a story for another time, if you wish to hear about it,” yawned Bardac as he appeared behind Applejack, donned in the bottom half of his armour. “Now, Applejack told me you two wanted to speak to me?”

Pinkie Pie bounded over. “I'll go first,” she said, beaming widely. “I gotta be back at Sugar Cube Corner soon.” Reaching under the table, Pinkie Pie pulled out a large, brightly coloured package and placed it on the stool she was sat on.

“It is not cupcakes, is it?” asked Bardac, eyeing the package with some apprehension. “You remember what happened last time.”

“Just unwrap it, silly,” giggled Pinkie as she pushed the stool over to him.

Raising an eyebrow, Bardac reached down and slowly picked up the package, the weight as well as the shape he felt underneath the wrapping felt strangely familiar. “You did not have to wrap this you know, thank you.” said Bardac, grinning slightly. Placing the package down on the table, Bardac started to peel off the paper. Inside, neatly stacked and cleaner than the day he made it was the remainder of his armour. “It is cleaner than I remember.”

“Well...” muttered Pinkie, rubbing the back of her neck. “There might have been a teeny incident with some cupcake frosting.” Watching Bardac, she beamed when he started to put on the armour. Pinkie always did like seeing others reunited with what they lost or left behind. Though, a moment later she glanced at the clock and gasped, “Ah! My lunch break is over! I gotta go!” In a flash of pink, she disappeared out the door.

Putting on his gauntlets, Bardac glanced out of the door at the dust trail left by the pink pony. “Is that normal for her?” he asked, adjusting the straps around his forearms.

“You mean wrapping the belongings of other ponies and giving them as presents if they leave them somewhere or darting out the door?” chuckled Twilight as she shut her notebook. “We've learnt not to question what Pinkie Pie does. It might take you a while to get used to her, but she's one of my best friends.”

“Ain't just that,” chimed in Applejack. “She'd give her own mane and tail to anypony who needed it. But just watch what you say round her.”

“Blabber mouth?” asked Bardac.

“Nope,” replied Applejack. “That pony's memory is like a steel trap. Nothin' escapes her, heck she remembers things I said from years ago!”

“I shall keep that in mind,” said Bardac, sitting down next to Twilight. Helping himself to an apple, he glanced over to the notes she was going through. “What are you looking at there?” he asked curiously.

Twilight leant back and carefully closed her notebook. “This is what I wanted to talk to you about. There's a market in Canterlot at the moment and I think it'd be nice if you and I went tomorrow. I've spoken to Light Flight and she's agreed to keep an eye on us, as long as we stick with her patrol,” she said rather quickly. Twilight was hoping the idea of spending a day

“A market huh?” pondered Bardac as he took a bite out of his apple. “Sounds interesting. There are quite a few wandering merchants who travel Skyrim, setting up shop in the Holds. Always used to see them when I had the chance.”

“Canterlot market?” asked Applejack as she sat on the other side of Twilight. “Ain't that where Rarity and Fluttershy are?”

Tapping her chin, Twilight replied, “Come to think of it, you're right. It'd be a perfect chance for them to meet Bardac!”

Applejack snickered, “Or run at the sight of him. Knowin' Rarity, she'd run into the nearest salon and come out swingin' with a mane brush.”

Twilight couldn't stop herself from snorting as she giggled loudly, “I think it'd take more than that to get his mane under control.”

Bardac chuckled finished off the rest of his apple while Applejack and Twilight continued talking about the possible reactions of their friends Rarity and Fluttershy. Eventually he stretched out, yawning quietly. “As long as Light Flight allows me a little time to look at what is on offer. I think it will be worth the trip.”

“So, that's a yes?” asked Twilight, her smile grew wider and wider by the second.

“I have nothing better to do,” replied Bardac, chewing on the stalk of his apple. “I am still no closer to figuring out how I am going to return home.”

Applejack blinked and looked over at Bardac. “Even while you were chasin' those diamond dogs all over the Everfree Forest, you were still thinkin' bout how to get home?” she asked. “That's some impressive thinkin' power you got there.”

“I get by, just,” said Bardac. Looking over to Twilight, he asked, “Will Celestia be present at the market? She still holds my helmet, sword and shield in the castle. I do not like being apart from them for too long.”

“Hmm... she should be,” pondered Twilight. “Celestia likes to collect rare items and every now and again something unique crops up.”

Just then, Applejack dropped a sizeable brown pouch onto the table. “Here, you can use what's left over from that gold paperweight you made us,” she said. “Least I could do. You have no idea how helpful that was.”

Reaching into the bag, Bardac pulled out a large, golden coin. “Thank you Applejack,” he said. Though out of curiosity, he reached into his own pouch hanging off his belt and pulled out a Septim to compare it against. What surprised Bardac was they were remarkably similar in both size and weight. But, he knew how picky some merchants could be with what they took.

“Oh! Is that a Septim?” asked Twilight. Before Bardac could put it away, Twilight had already nudged it out of his grasp and brought it over to her. “Who's this on the front?” she asked, turning the coin every direction she could while examining it closely.

“Twilight,” chuckled Applejack, reaching over to snatch the coin back. “You know better than to grab without askin'.” Passing the coin back to Bardac, she said. “Sorry bout that, Twilight gets grabby when she's interested in somethin'.”

“She can look if she wants,” said Bardac, passing the coin back over to Twilight. “The figure on the front is Tiber Septim, the founder of the Septim Empire. It is the currency all over Tamriel, since at one time the Septim Empire owned most of the continent.”

Sticking her tongue out at Applejack, Twilight held out her hoof to retrieve the coin once again. “It's not every day I get to examine currency from another world you know,” she said with a huff.

“Yeah yeah,” replied Applejack, grinning widely. “But as long as Bardac's alright... err, Bardac? Somethin' the matter?” Looking over at the Nord, Applejack was surprised to see him looking down into a flask, looking quite bemused.

“Nothing is the matter, but...” muttered Bardac as he shook his head. “Would one of you be able to tell me what this is?” Placing the top of the flask on the table, Bardac poured out a thick, sweet smelling multi-coloured liquid into it. “It was under my armour in the package Pinkie Pie gave me.”

Immediately, both Applejack and Twilight darted to the windows and peered out. Only when the coast was clear did Applejack walk over, saying, “You're lucky Rainbow Dash ain't around to see that. She'd chase you all over Equestria for a sip of that.”

“That... still does not explain what it is,” replied Bardac, looking down at the liquid. The longer he watched, the more colours his eye could pick up.

“That's some of the Apple family Zap Apple Cider. The strongest cider in Equestria and one of the rarest, considering she can only make a little of it once a year. Though it keeps forever,” said Twilight, though she couldn't help but lick her lips at the sight of it. “I'd say you owe Pinkie a thanks for that.”

Pouring the cider back into the flask, Bardac tightened the lid back on and said, “I think... I will save this for a special occasion.” Though it suddenly dawned on him exactly what he could use it for. “Twilight, since I do not have the room to carry this flask. Could I entrust it to you to bring it with us tomorrow?”

“Why don't you leave it here, I'll bring a saddle bag with me tomorrow and you can put it in there,” replied Twilight. “I can't guarantee it'll all be there if you leave it with me,” she added, giggling lightly. “It's good stuff.”

“Now, I should warn you. Don't be drinkin' it all at once. It ain't meant for that,” said Applejack firmly. “Best had in small doses.”

“Duty noted,” murmured Bardac, adjusting his armour once again. It took a while for it to settle if he hadn't worn it for a few days. The hole however in his chest plate caused the Nord a twinge of annoyance. “Going to have to find some steel and patch this...”

“Last year, there were quite a few smiths at the market selling their work. Maybe you could get one of them to repair it for you. Though... I should say that you just need to be careful, not all of them are honest with their prices,” warned Twilight.

Bardac snorted and waved his hand dismissively. “I have dealt with untrustworthy merchants before,” he said, though catching the look Twilight gave him, he added swiftly, “None violently of course.”

Applejack chuckled, “Big Mac's the same. He don't need to say much to get his point across. Then again he don't say much anyway.”

“The strong, silent type,” added Twilight. “Though, once you've gotten him talking. It's pretty difficult to get him to stop!”

“Now that ain't fair,” grumbled a gruff voice from the doorway. He hadn't been there long, but Big Mac arrived just in time to hear the tail end of their conversation.

“We're just teasin' you,” said Applejack, her lips curling into a smirk. “All done for the day?”

Big Mac stretched out. “Only a few more trees to get out,” he groaned. “Bein' as stubborn as a mule they are. If you need me, I'll be in the bath.” Heading upstairs, he was almost out of sight before he turned and stuck his head back through the doorway. “By the way Bardac, you got a visitor. They're waitin' outside by the front gate.”

“A... visitor? For me?” asked Bardac, raising an eyebrow before glancing out the window and down the path. Big Mac was right, there was definitely a pony waiting down by the gate. “I suppose I could not stay hidden forever.”

“Well, it was only a matter of time before news of you started to spread,” said Twilight, looking out of the window as well. “You did cause quite a stir in Canterlot and Ponyville. But I'm surprised we haven't had ponies knocking down the barn trying to get a look at you.”

“Well, I better go see what this pony wants. It would be rude to keep them waiting any longer,” sighed Bardac, scratching his chin. “I will be back soon.”

As Bardac made his way outside and down the path, Twilight hopped off her stool and followed, at least to the front door where she was soon joined by Applejack. “I wonder why they're waiting all the way down at the gate. Surely if they wanted to speak to him, they'd come and knock on the door,” said Twilight thoughtfully.

Applejack thought for a second or two, but she was drawing blanks. “Maybe because he don't seem so big when he's out in the open,” she suggested, shrugging. “I don't recognise the pony he's talkin' to.”

“Well, who ever it is. Bardac seems happy enough talking to them,” concluded Twilight, at least that was the closest she could guess from here.

“How can you tell?” asked Applejack, glancing over at Twilight.

“Well...” muttered Twilight. “He hasn't hit them yet.”

Applejack snickered, “Thought you'd say somethin' like that. I guess it's pretty black and white where you sit with him?”

“Pretty much. From what I've seen, He'll let you know what he things of you within the first few seconds,” replied Twilight, looking over at Bardac, only to see him walking back. “What's that he's carrying? Looks like a letter of some sort.”

“You'd know,” teased Applejack with a grin.

Twilight rolled her eyes and giggled, “Very funny.” Eventually, Bardac got within earshot, so Twilight took the chance to call out. “Everything alright?”

Holding out a large, formal looking letter, Bardac said, “It seems I have been invited for lunch with Celestia while we are at the market tomorrow.” Though, pointing further down the letter, he grumbled, “It appears I cannot wear armour, nor can I have any weapons on me. I also need a suit.” Shaking his head, Bardac sighed. “I hate suits...”

Twilight couldn't help but giggle loudly, “Oh Bardac... don't you worry about a single thing. I'll be with you. Once we've gotten through lunch, we'll go and check out some of the merchants, how does that sound?”

“I suppose that could work,” said Bardac, rubbing his temples before walking back inside. “...I... need a drink. Where is that cider?”

“Coolin' down in the kitchen,” replied Applejack, looking over her shoulder. “Should be good to drink.” The moment Bardac was out of earshot, Applejack sighed to Twilight. “You sure this is a good idea?”

Biting her lip in concern, Twilight replied, “Only one way to find out...”