It was the morning of the market and preparations were already well underway both inside and outside of Canterlot. Celestia herself always took it upon herself to make sure this market went off without a hitch, though this year proved to be the largest turn out yet, especially for the merchants themselves.

It was no secret that Celestia and for the last year or so, Luna, enjoyed collecting rare and unique artifacts from not only Equestria, but from all over Equus. The merchants were always competing with one another to see who could earn the favour of the two princesses, a sort of mini competition between them. There were no prizes, just simple bragging rights.

The market wasn't due to start for another few hours, but Celestia simply couldn't help herself and was already sneaking a peak at the items on sale as she oversaw the preparations. While it wasn't a rare sight to see Celestia at the market, the merchants were still always delighted when they got the chance to see her, even more so when she approached their stall.

“How many merchants have turned up this year?” asked Celestia, looking across at the guard who accompanied her, “I'm sorry, could you tell me your name again?”

“Thun Drum, your highness,” replied Thun Drum. While he fairly low rank within the guards, every year Celestia posted him to this market. Not that he was complaining, he always did like the busyness of Canterlot, it was a nice change to the quiet of Ponyville where he was usually stationed, “Around sixty or so at the moment, I believe another thirty are due to turn up within the hour.”

“Perfect!” said Celestia as she looked around happily, “I must say, this year is shaping up to be the largest market yet.” Despite her best efforts, Celestia was finding it difficult to contain her excitement. It was really the only time of the year where she wasn't cooped up in the castle.

While Thun Drum was pleased to see Celestia so cheerful, he had a concern that he simply had to voice, “Your highness,” he said, bowing slightly as they stopped to check out a stall being raised. “Is... it true that Bardac will be attending? As well as having lunch with yourself?” Thun Drum did his best to hide his concern though.

Celestia didn't reply straight away. Only when the stall was completely upright did she turn to Thun Drum and smile warmly. “News travels fast within the guards, doesn't it. Sometimes I think the guards know things even before I do,” she said, giving Thun Drum a curious look.

“We... get by,” muttered Thun Drum sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head with the edge of his wing.

Celestia chuckled, “Well, I suppose there is no denying it. Bardac is attending the market as well as attending a small lunch with myself. Of course he'll be accompanied by Princess Twilight as well as Light Flight. Though, I do wonder if he'll honour my request that he doesn't wear his armour, maybe asking for him to wear formal attire was a little much...”

“I do hope so. If anypony can keep him under control, it'll be those two,” said Thun Drum, scratching his chin slightly with his wing. “They're going to have their hooves full, I certainly wouldn't want to be anywhere near a creature who can make two thieves give up just by looking at them.”

Tilting her head, Celestia looked down at Thun Drum. “You mean the two thieves that were brought into Canterlot last night?” she asked curiously. “That was his doing?

“As far as I know,” replied Thun Drum. “I'm not sure I know of any other creature that meets their description of him.”

“Being ugly enough to scare a pair of thieves isn't anything to be proud of,” scoffed Light Flight as she came into land next to Thun Drum. She'd just got back from checking the patrol that was keeping an eye on the other side of the mountain Canterlot was built on. “All's clear on the east side, princess.”

“Excellent, all the patrols are in place and everything's in order,” said Celestia, looking over to the entrance of Canterlot in the distance where ponies had already started to gather. “Well, I guess there's nothing else left to do except greet Twilight and Bardac at the station. Light Flight, do you remember which train they were suppose to be on?”

Light Flight glanced up at a nearby clock hanging on one of the stalls, the face read ten past eleven. “They should be arriving on the next train at half past. That's if they haven't run into any trouble,” she said.

“Forgive me for asking but, couldn't Princess Twilight teleport the two of them here?” asked Thun Drum, tilting his head curiously. “I know teleportation for two requires a bit of magic, but Princess Twilight is an alicorn after all.”

“That would have been the easiest solution...” replied Celestia. “However, I received a letter from Twilight just before they left. It seems Bardac is quite taken with the locomotive when he saw it at the station, much to Twilight's amusement. I can only assume such technology doesn't exist in his world.”

“No teleportation... no trains. How do the creatures in Bardac's world get about then?” muttered Thun Drum, tapping his chin thoughtfully. “Surely it'd be too difficult for them to walk everywhere. I can't imagine having to walk from here to Ponyville, my hooves would be nothing but stubs!”

Rolling her eyes, Light Flight sighed, “Great. So he's going to be all excited when he arrives, that makes my job so much easier.” Looking up at Celestia, she asked, “Speaking of which, have you decided where you're taking him for lunch, Princess? I doubt he's a picky eater. But it'd be good to avoid another cupcake incident.”

“Cupcake?” asked Thun Drum hesitantly, catching the look on Celestia's face. “Dare I ask?”

“His kind can't tolerate overly sweet foods,” explained Celestia, “A single bite of a cupcake made by Pinkie Pie was enough to make him feel quite unwell.”

“That's an understatement,” said Light Flight, ruffling the feathers on her wings, “I don't think I've seen anypony throw up so much since the rotten apple pie incident.”

Even Celestia turned a slight shade of green. “Yes, well...” she muttered before clearing her throat. “Anyway, shall we head to the station? I believe it's almost time for Twilight and Bardac's train to arrive.”

As the small group of three made their way to Canterlot station, Thun Drum leant over to Light Flight and whispered, “Rotten apple pie?”

Whispering back just as quietly, Light Flight replied, “Never let Princess Luna cook.”

Inside the carriage where Twilight and Bardac sat, all was strangely quiet and not for the fact they were the only ones on the single carriage train. For most of the journey Bardac had been staring almost longingly out of the window at the mountain ranges in the distance. It was only until he caught a glimpse of the station in the distance did he show any signs of life.

“Everything alright, Bardac?” asked Twilight, tilting her head ever so slightly from her seat opposite him. “You haven't said much this entire trip. I know you've got a lot on your mind, but try and enjoy yourself, okay?”

Bardac's gaze shifted from the mountain ranges in the distance to the purple pony sitting in front of him. It took a few seconds, but eventually his lips split into a small smile. “I appreciate the concern, Twilight. The mountain ranges on this trip reminded me of Skyrim, I figured the longer I looked at them, the less homesick I would feel,” he said quietly.

Twilight smiled and reached over to give Bardac's knee a gentle pat with her hoof. “I know how you feel,” she said kindly, “While I live in Ponyville now, I actually spent most of my life in Canterlot. It's difficult not to feel homesick.” However, looking down, Twilight's smile disappeared. “But... I've never been in your hooves, stuck in a world with no idea on how to get back.”

Sighing heavily, Bardac eventually leant back from the window and stretched out, his shoulders popping loudly in protest. “I will find a way... even if it kills me,” he said quietly.

“Doesn't that... kinda defeat the point of actually getting home in the first place?” asked Twilight, her eyebrow raising slightly. “Don't get me wrong, I'm glad you're so determined to get back home. I know I would be, but... I don't think dying for it is the way to go.”

Bardac couldn't help but chuckle under his breath, “I suppose you are right. Who knows, maybe I will find a clue in Canterlot.” Looking down at his side for a moment, he muttered. “It will be nice to get my sword and shield back too.”

While Twilight couldn't understand why such a thing like a sword and shield would be important to Bardac, she did understand the importance of getting something that has such value back. “I'm sure they're safe and sound,” she said hopefully, though she had no idea what Celestia had done with them. However, she couldn't help herself and asked, “Why are they so important to you?”

“Besides saving my life on multiple occasions,” replied Bardac. “The gods that gifted them to me will not be too happy if I return to Skyrim without them. They are not the most forgiving when it comes to mistakes.”

Twilight's mouth gaped in surprise, that wasn't quite the answer she was expecting. “Well... I can kinda see why you'd want them back then,” she said, finally closing her mouth. “I'm sure if you explained to Celestia why you needed them back, she'd happily return them.”

Feeling the carriage slow beneath his feet, Bardac looked out the window once more. Even though they were still a far distance away, there was no mistaking the large, white figure waiting for him at the station. “Time to get ready,” said Bardac as he got to his feet. “This should be interesting...”

Back on the station, Celestia looked around curiously at the crowd that was growing around herself and her two guards. “Did word spread of Bardac's attendance today spread that quickly?” she asked Light Flight with a small smile.

“Actually, Princess...” replied Light Flight. “I think most of them are wondering why you're standing in a train station with two guard escorts. Usually you fly, teleport or take the royal carriage. You have to admit it's a little unusual.”

“Oh? Is that so?” asked Celestia, “I guess I'll have to start taking the train more often. I hear it's a wonderful way to travel.”

“If you don't get travel sick,” murmured Thun Drum. “I'll take my own wings any day of the week.”

“With you on that one,” agreed Light Flight.

“Now now,” said Celestia, smiling slightly. “You'll hurt the drivers feelings if they hears you say that. Those trains are as important to them as your wings are to you. Honestly, it's nice to see a pony take such pride in their job. Ah, speaking of which. Right on time.”

Just as the clock struck half past eleven, the shrill sound of the locomotive's whistle pierced the air as it rolled smoothly into the station. “All ponies, mind the gap!” shouted an old, wrinkly, coal-faced pony from the cab.

As the door to the carriage opened, it wasn't Bardac, but Twilight who stepped out first. “Celestia!” Twilight called out, beaming widely as she made her way over to Celestia's side. “It's so good to see you again. Bardac will be out shortly, he's just taking care of a few things.” Though, not forgetting her manners, Twilight gave Thun Drum and Light Flight a cheery smile as well.

“Twilight, it's good to see you too,” replied Celestia, leaning down to give her a light nuzzle to the cheek. “I hope the journey wasn't too stressful.”

“Everything was fine,” said Twilight, still smiling broadly. “It went by quicker than I expected.”

“Will he hurry up already,” muttered Light Flight, her wings rustling in irritation. Already she could feel her patience with Bardac wearing thin... and she hadn't even seen him yet!

“The ever glowing example of patiences, Light Flight,” called out the unmistakably gruff voice of Bardac, stepping off the carriage to the collective gasps of the ponies on the platform.

“Well now...” muttered Celestia, “This isn't what I was expecting.”

Bardac's usual dull, black armour had been polished to sheen, exposing the soft, dark blue hue that ran through the metal's surface. Both his beard and moustache, as well as his hair had also undergone a deep clean and trim. “Princess Celestia,” said Bardac, placing a fist against his chest before bowing slightly. “Thank you for inviting me.”

It took Celestia a moment or two to get over her surprise at Bardac's new appearance. “This is a pleasant surprise,” she said, “I hope you didn't put yourself under too much pressure to prepare for today.”

“No more than any other day,” replied Bardac, glancing around at the gathering crowd. He wasn't surprised at the variety of stares he was getting.

While the Princess and Bardac spoke, Light Flight leant over to Thun Drum and whispered, “This is... odd... I don't like this. He's up to something.”

Raising his eyebrow, Thun Drum whispered back, “Why? He's being perfectly polite.”

“That's the problem... Bardac's never been polite before,” Light Flight hissed back before raising her voice. “Bardac, I thought the princess asked you to not to wear your armour and wear something formal. Yet you've clearly ignored both requests.”

“This is true,” replied Bardac, looking down at Light Flight. “But this is the best I could do in the time frame I had. Twilight can vouch for me, I had sent a letter to every tailor she knew. But none could make an outfit in time. As for the armour... would you prefer I walked around naked? This is all I have to wear you know.”

After a prolonged silence, Light Flight muttered, “Just keep the damn armour on...”

It didn't take too long after that for Twilight to catch the hardening of Bardac's face as the crowd gathered ever closer. “Shall we get a move on?” she said cheerfully, trying to distract the Nord. “I'm sure Bardac's eager to see what Canterlot has to offer.”

“Indeed,” said Celestia in agreement before looking down at Thun Drum. “Please return to your patrol near the castle, Thun Drum. You've been most helpful.”

“Yes, your highness,” replied Thun Drum, bowing low with a smile. “Have a wonderful time.”

As Thun Drum took off to rejoin his patrol above Canterlot Castle, Celestia looked up at Bardac and smiled warmly. “Shall we go?” she asked.

“Actually, Celestia...” said Bardac. “I have a small request to make before we set off. The shield and sword you currently hold in the castle. I would like them returned to me.”

Light Flight scoffed, “Are you nuts? Letting you walk around a full Canterlot wielding those things?”

“It will be more dangerous if you refused,” replied Bardac, his voice growing cold.

Before Light Flight could respond, Celestia cleared her throat and asked, “Is there something about these weapons we should know, Bardac?”

“They were gifts,” said Bardac, his response hardly giving much information.

Celestia raised her eyebrow. “Gifts?” she asked, finding it hard to believe. “Why would somepony gift such dangerous weapons?”

Bardac let out a sigh, rubbing his freshly shaven brow before saying, “Perhaps I should make myself more clear. The gods who gifted me those weapons will soon be wondering why they cannot feel my presence near the weapons. Skyrim gods do not hesitate to kill, so it would be in both of our best interests if we do not piss them off.”

“You're joking... right?” asked Light Flight, glancing to Celestia, then back to Bardac. “Why would a god need a sword or shield? Better yet. Why would they be giving out weapons in the first place!”

“God's',” corrected Bardac. “Skyrim has many... some of which simply kill for fun.”

Twilight sighed loudly, “Well this conversation turned sour quickly.” Looking up at Celestia, Twilight gave her the biggest puppy-dog eyes that she could manage. Though she knew even that was a long shot with Celestia. “It would mean a lot to Bardac if he could have them back.”

“Well...” muttered Celestia, taking everything into consideration as she lifted a hoof to tap her chin. “I was hoping today would simply be a day of relaxation, without the need of weapons. But... if these weapons are as important to you as you say they are. Then, rightfully they should be returned to you. The sooner they are returned, the sooner we can get back to the market.” And before any of them could speak or react, Celestia teleported them out of the station in a blinding flash of light.

The four landed within Celestia's suite. Three on their hooves and one on their back. “Remind me again why I let you teleport,” groaned Bardac as he slowly picked himself up. Thankfully he'd landed on the many pillows Celestia had scattered about.

“You'll get used to it,” chuckled Twilight, offering Bardac a hoof to help him stand. “When I was a filly in Canterlot, it took me a while to get used to unicorns teleporting in and out of everywhere.”

Light Flight grumbled as she smoothed out a few out of place feathers on her wings. She never did like teleporting at the best of times. “I'll take flying any day of the week,” she muttered, plucking out a broken feather or two.

“For once, Light Flight. I think I am going to agree with you,” said Bardac as he gave his head a firm shake. “The only way I have flown is not very comfortable... but I much prefer it to teleportation.” Looking around, Bardac finally laid eyes on his sword, shield and somewhat dented helmet. “Where are we anyway...”

“My suite,” said Celestia as she stretched out her wings. She always did feel more relaxed while she was in here. “This is where I come to relax and take care of personal business. I felt this was the safest place to keep your belongings.”

“There's no real safe place to keep a sword like that,” said Light Flight, eyeing the glinting steel of Dawnbreaker. “One of our guards is still recovering from the wound it gave them. The burn alone took three of our best unicorns to heal.”

“Meridia's Retribution,” said Bardac as he walked over and hovered his hand over the deadly edge of the blade. He was thankful that he remembered to attach the scabbard to his armour earlier in the morning. “Anything it strikes, burns as though touched by the sun itself.”

“And they let you simply have these things?” muttered Light Flight, raising her eyebrow as she watched Bardac slide the sword into the scabbard on his side. “So, what. You've got a sword with the power of the sun. Has that shield got the power to turn all your enemies into goo or something?”

“You've seen it for yourself, Light Flight,” answered Celestia. “That shield has the power to absorb offensive magic. No matter how powerful. It shrugged off a blast from me like it was nothing.”

“Astounding...” said Twilight, gazing between the sword and the shield. This type of magic was unknown to her and her thirst for knowledge was growing stronger by the second. “I.. don't suppose you'd let me study them at some point?” she asked, sliding up to Bardac's side.

“Not on your life,” said Bardac dryly as he slung the shield onto his back. “Last person I let try that almost dismantled the damn thing.” That and he wasn't a big fan of others touching his belongings anyway. Looking back at his helmet, Bardac frowned. “Those dents were not there before.”

Celestia and Light Flight exchanged a very quick exchange of looks before Light Flight stepped forward and cleared her throat. “I... may of given it a few kicks in frustration as I was bringing it here,” she admitted. Usually she wouldn't of, but with Celestia breathing down her neck, she didn't have much of a choice.

“Do not worry, Bardac,” said Celestia. “I will make sure it's properly repaired and returned to you by the end of the day.”

Bardac picked up and examined the damage a little more closely, it wasn't as bad as he first thought. Still, it was a minor annoyance at best. “That would be appreciated, though it should not of been damaged to begin with,” he said dryly as he placed his helmet back on the stand it was once resting on.

Celestia cleared her throat, she didn't want this day to start going south. “Well then. Shall we head back to the market? I dare say you'd want to look around now you've got your belongings back.”

“Actually...” said Bardac, turning to the others. “I was going to save this for the lunch. But now seems a good a time as any. Twilight, would you mind getting out the flask?”

Twilight nodded almost gleefully and reached into one of her saddlebags to pull out the silvery flask that Pinkie Pie had gifted Bardac. “I've only ever tried a sip of it. Pinkie Pie ends up drinking it all before she has a chance to share it.”

“I... guess I should get some glasses?” suggested Celestia curiously. It took her but a moment to hover over four round crystal tumblers. “Should I ask what the occasion is?”

“Nordic tradition,” said Bardac. While the tumblers were still in Celestia's grasp, he took the flask from Twilight, uncorked it and slowly poured out its contents, making sure each glass had its fair share before capping the flask and putting it to one side. “We drink as one. To repair what has been damaged.”

“Is... is that what I think it is?” asked Light Flight, she had a hard time keeping her lips from drooling.

“I dare say it is...” replied Celestia, having a similar problem. “Bardac, are you sure? Even I have difficulty getting my hooves on this.”

As Bardac continued to slowly measure out the rather thick, multicoloured liquid, Twilight took the chance to explain. “It was a gift from Pinkie Pie. As an apology for the cup cake incident when they first found Bardac in Ponyville,” she said, watching the liquid slosh around inside the glasses.

“That reminds me,” pondered Bardac. “You said Applejack can only make a little of this a year. Any particular reason for that?”

Twilight thought for a moment before she replied, “If I remember correctly, only the most perfect of the Zap Apples get turned into the cider. Depending on the year that could be half the tree or as little as one apple for the entire harvest. Last year was a somewhat poor crop unfortunately.”

“I'm afraid even royal perks are not strong enough to assure a regular shipment,” chuckles Celestia, slowly hovering over her own glass while lowering Light Flight down her share as well.

Taking the glass between her wings, Light Flight glared up at Bardac. “You know... giving me this won't make me instantly change my mind about you,” she muttered. “But... it's a start.”

“You would be surprised what an offering of a good drink has accomplished in my world,” replied Bardac as he gave Twilight her share. Taking his own, Bardac raised the glass in front of him. “To friends, old and new. To family that we hold dear. We drink together to mend what has been broken by strife.” Lifting his glass higher, Bardac called out, “Movut!” Before downing the Zap Apple cider in one large gulp.

“Cheers!” called out the others in chorus.

Light Flight, who'd never tried the drink before found herself tingling all over, her fur standing on end from what felt like a current of electricity flowing through her body.

Twilight, who knew what to expect was still caught off guard by the warm, tingling sensation that shot through her body when the liquid passed her lips. Then again, a gulp was a lot more than a sip.

Celestia on the other hand simple sighed dreamily and basked in the warmth that the drink filled her with. “I would gladly sell my crown for a cool glass of this after a stressful day,” she said quietly.

“I'd give up being guard just to taste it again,” muttered Light Flight, her body shivering slightly as another jolt ran through her.

Twilight found herself unable to respond. She couldn't find any words to describe the sensation that this drink brought her, well, all except one word. “Delicious...” she sighed, her fur standing on end.

Bardac, who was used to strong drinks had to admire the depths of flavour that ran through this cider. It came close, ever so close to matching his beloved Nord Mead. Heck, he'd even go as far as to say it was an equal, but he'd never admit it. Looking down at Twilight, he said quietly, “Remind me to thank Pinkie Pie for this.” Picking up the flask, he placed it back into Twilight's saddlebag, “There is still enough for Rainbow Dash to enjoy a glass as well.”

“She'll be thrilled,” said Twilight, beaming from ear to ear as she set down her glass, “I think she's only had the pleasure of trying it once.”

“I'm just grateful that Luna does not share the same taste in drinks as I do,” chuckled Celestia. “While I prefer my drinks cool, Luna prefers hers on the warmer side. We tried once, but cider doesn't do well warm.”

“I dunno, Princess,” said Light Flight, wiping her lips with her hoof. “I think that might convert even Princess Luna.”

Celestia just shook her head and muttered something under her breath, that is until she saw Bardac looking out of the balcony on the other side of the room. “Something caught your interest?” she called over, she'd only just got used to how quickly and silently Bardac could move sometimes.

“Nothing in particular,” he replied as he stretched out his shoulders. “Just an old habit of mine.”

Just then, Light Flight looked down at her leg. “Damn it,” she muttered and without another word, shot out of the balcony and down to the market below.

“Well, that was... odd,” said Bardac, keeping a keen eye on Light Flight until she rounded the castle and went out of sight. “Does she do that often?”

“She was called,” explained Celestia as she walked out onto the balcony with Twilight close behind. “Each and every guard have a small, enchanted bracelet over their right hoof. Only the wearer can hear what's being said into the other bracelets. You could be right next to it and not hear a peep.”

“Impressive,” said Bardac, glancing at Celestia. “That would explain how the guards were able to track my every movement within the castle.”

Celestia simply smiled and said, “They can do much more than relay messages. But I'm afraid that's a trade secret.” Winking to Bardac, Celestia then looked down to Twilight. “Unless you and Bardac need anything else. Shall we head back to the market?”

“Ready when you are, Celestia,” replied Twilight.

Bardac grumbled loudly from the balcony and walked slowly back into the room. “Teleporting sucks...” he grizzled.

“Oh stop complaining,” giggled Twilight. “Teleportation is the quickest and safest form of transport in Equestria! For both magical and non magical creatures.”

“Tell that to my stomach,” muttered Bardac, standing next to Celestia before steeling himself for the impending spell.

Celestia chuckled softly and looked down at Twilight. “Do not be so hard on Bardac. Teleporting isn't for everypony. Most of the pegasi that I know prefer to fly than to teleport,” she said, chuckling lightly. Only after giving Bardac a few more seconds to steel himself did she start to channel her teleportation. With a blinding flash, the three teleported down into the market below.

“Stop where you are!” bellowed Light Flight, her wings beating furiously as she chased down a mare on the street below. “You're only making it worse for yourself!”

“Go hassle somepony else!” screeched the mare as she made one sharp turn after another through the crowded market.

Light Flight could easily keep up, the tight turns did nothing to slow her down. “You can't outrun a pegasus! Don't even try!” While Light Flight could easily catch the mare, she was the sporting type, always trying to give them at least one chance.

The mare was growing tired, she'd been stalking the market for hours. Though looking down at the fire ruby that hung around her neck, she was starting to wonder if it was worth it. Rounding another corner, the mare looked up just in time to see the back end of something much larger than her. “Oh horse-apples!” she screeched, skidding to a halt.

“Don't even think about it!” hissed Light Flight, landing behind the mare. It was only then did she notice the creature that the mare had almost ran into. “Discord? Buck... what're you doing here?”

Discord looked over his shoulder, his toothy smirk growing as he spotted Light Flight. “I haven't visited the Canterlot market in centuries! Besides, Fluttershy simply insisted that I come this year,” he said. It was then that he spotted the mare. “Well well, been a little naughty have we?”

The mare shivered as she backed up. If she had to choose between the guards and Discord, it was the guards every time. “Please don't hurt me...” she quivered.

Discord scoffed and crossed his arms, muttering loudly, “My dear I'm hurt at the very thought! I am reformed you know. Can't the Lord of Chaos do a little shopping now and again?” While some ponies still treated Discord with distrust, most simply ignored him and went about their business. Not that he was complaining.

Light Flight rolled her eyes and reached under her wings to pull out a pair of shackles hanging there. “Yeah yeah, we get it Discord. Though if I ever catch you filling the barracks with pudding again, your tooth is mine,” growled Light Flight as she shackled the mare and dragged her away. She needed to get to Celestia as soon as possible.

“Well, somepony needs to relax,” sniffed Discord. “Now, you were saying Fluttershy?” Looking down at the yellow pegasus in front of him.

Fluttershy jumped a little as Discord addressed her, she was too busy wondering what the mare had done wrong. “Oh!” she squeaked before reaching into her saddlebag and pulling out a pile of wrapped sandwiches. “It's getting close to lunch time and I was asking if you were getting hungry. Though we really should wait for Rarity.”

“What is that mare up to?” asked Discord as he stretched out his neck to see if he could locate the bright white unicorn. “I swear she's visited every merchant we've passed!”

Fluttershy giggled softly behind her wing. “Well, it is a market. That's sort of what you come here to do,” she said. Though she was getting worried, Rarity wasn't usually gone this long.

Just then, a voice chimed through the crowd. “Sorry about that dears! That merchant was stubborn as a mule.”

“Get anything nice?” asked Fluttershy as Rarity came into view.

Rarity shook her mane slightly to get it back into place. “Well,” she said, hovering over a strange looking tool. It looked to be made out of pure bronze and shaped like a bent ice-cream scoop. “This is a little tool that helps shape clouds, I thought it'd be a nice gift for Rainbow Dash. Poor dear wanted to come so badly, but she had to work this weekend.”

Discord raised an eyebrow and asked, “Why would a pegasus need help shaping clouds? Isn't that part of the job description? What with the wings and all.”

Fluttershy looked at the tool curiously before answering, “Well, some types of clouds are more tricky to shape than others.” Looking up at the sky, Fluttershy smiled almost dreamily. “But they make the most wonderful pillows.”

“Oh you're making me so envious!” huffed Rarity as she stared up at the clouds floating above them. “What I'd do for one of those soft, luxurious cloud couches.”

Discord rolled his eyes and started to browse the stall nearest to him. On display were a variety of small, yet interesting little knick-knacks. “Ooh, what's this little doohickey?” he asked, picking up a small wooden square. Yet, the moment he did, it split into several little pieces. “Is it suppose to do that?”

“Little prank to play on unicorns,” explained the merchant. Slowly, the pieces reformed back into the original square. “Drives them nuts. Though, only works if you're an earth, or pegasus pony like me.” Stretching his wings, the merchant picked up the little square, which stubbornly remained in one piece.

“How... hilarious,” muttered Discord dryly before rejoining Rarity and Fluttershy a few stalls down.

“Ah! Discord, just in time,” said Rarity, dragging Discord over by the paw when he got close enough. “Be a dear and hold these.” As she held up at least a dozen bags, she gave Discord the best beaming smile she could manage.

“What do I look like, an octopus?” asked Discord, raising his eyebrow. “Oh fine, here.” With a wave of his lion paw, Discord compacted every last bag into one small bag which he could easily carry. “You didn't have to buy something from every stall.”

Fluttershy giggled softly and explained, “She does this every year. Some of her best work comes from what she buys here. Like that scarf she made you.”

“That is a nice scarf...” said Discord, stroking his beard lightly.

Rarity looked over with a knowing grin. “Well of course it's a nice scarf! You did pick out the design yourself. Plus the enchantment that allows it to withstand your... dare I say. Shenanigans?”

“Oh please, shenanigans are so last year. Besides, you know Celestia keeps a close eye on my doings. Just basic spells for now, she says... how infuriating,” sniffed Discord. “Speaking of Celestia. I hear that she's having lunch today with a rather strange creature that arrived in Equestria not too long ago.”

Fluttershy shivered slightly and passed over Discords sandwich which she still had held in her wing. “I caught a glimpse of him earlier as he was getting off the train,” said Fluttershy. “He's almost as tall as you Discord. I wonder why he was wearing all that armour... and in this heat too! The poor thing must be so warm.”

Rarity tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Well, he must be very important if Princess Celestia is having lunch with him,” she said. “But that's really none of our business. We've got more shopping to do!”

“Um, Rarity? Would you mind awfully if we got some air for a teeny bit?” asked Fluttershy. She could handle crowds better than ever, but even she had her limits without taking a break or two.

Rarity looked over and smiled warmly. “Oh! Of course dear. Why don't we head over to the gardens for a bite to eat. I dare say I've bought enough, for now. Come along, I know just the place.”

“Hurrah to Rarity, our saviour,” muttered Discord, waving a little white flag with a bright purple R stamped on it.

“You've just talked your way out of a Doo muffin,” sniffed Rarity, holding her head up high as she lead Fluttershy through the crowd. “I guess I'll just have to throw that one away.”

Discord gasped in shock. “You wouldn't dare! Fluttershy, say something!”

Fluttershy giggled softly, “I'm sorry Discord. You know I can't change her mind once she'd made it.” Though just to add insult to injury, she said, “But, they really are good muffins.”

As Fluttershy and Rarity giggled softly between them, Discord was left taking up the rear. His arms folded tightly over his chest and across his brow, a scowl that could scare off a dragon. “Mares...” he huffed.

“Well... I can't say you didn't warn me,” said Celestia, leaning back from the table a little. She was starting to regret her choice of restaurant.

Twilight shook her head in disbelief. “I know you wanted to make a good impression and it has got a wonderful view of the gardens... but did you have to choose the most expensive restaurant in Canterlot?” she asked quietly.

Light Flight, who'd returned from locking up the mare she caught in the streets couldn't quite believe what she was seeing, having arrived just in time to see the culinary carnage. “Where on sweet Equestria does it all go?” she asked, gawking at the mountain of plates that were stacked around Bardac.

“I... I don't know, I truly don't,” said Celestia, it wasn't often that she was left speechless. “I really hope Pinkie Pie does not find out about this. Those two combined could cause a serious problem with the food supply in Equestria.”

Twilight wasn't sure whether Celestia was serious or not. But as she watched Bardac continue to devour what ever was put in front of him, she had to say something. “Bardac, don't you think you've eaten enough?” she asked. “We're running out of room on the table.”

Bardac stopped mid-bite and looked up from his plate. “I suppose I should leave some room for supper tonight,” he said as he put down his fork and leant back against his chair.

“How can you eat like that and not be sick?” asked Light Flight. “There's something not right about you.”

“Should I tell her, Twilight?” asked Bardac, smirking slightly as he wiped his mouth with the napkin in his hand.

Twilight rolled her eyes. “If you want, but don't blame me if it goes poorly.”

Celestia looked between the three, her eyebrow raised before focusing her gaze at Bardac. “Is there something you wish to tell us Bardac?”

Leaning forward on his chair, Bardac looked Celestia square in the eyes. “I am afraid I was not entirely truthful with you when we spoke in the dungeons. For I am not just a Nord... I am also a dragon.”

The table went silent for what seemed like forever, that is until Light Flight burst out laughing. “Please tell me you're not serious,” she said, wiping her eye with the tip of her wing. “A dragon? You look nothing like a dragon!”

“That's quite enough,” said Celestia calmly before turning her attention to Bardac. “While that would explain why you eat such vast amounts. I have to agree with Light Flight, I'm afraid you look nothing like any dragon I've encountered.”

Bardac chuckled to himself before answering, “While my body is Nordic, my blood and soul is that of a dragon. In Skyrim, I go by another name. Dovahkiin, or Dragonborn.”

Light Flight raised an eyebrow and asked, “And... what does a Dragonborn do?”

“Kill dragons,” replied Bardac. “Now... before you start seeing me as some senseless murderer, since I know what the dragons here are like. Allow me to explain. Dragons in Skyrim... they either wish to have nothing to do with you, or they will murder you on sight. They are immortal in my world, if a mortal manages to slay one. They would simply be resurrected within a few years. Only a Dragonborn can put them down, permanently.”

“But... surely it's not like that all the time, right?” asked Twilight.

Bardac shook his head slowly and let out a sigh, “I wish I could say you are right, Twilight. But, war. Whether between simple farmers, clashing armies or defending our home against rampaging beasts. It is never far from our doorstep.”

“But what makes a Dragonborn able to do something that anypony else can't?” asked Light Flight. “All sounds a bit far-fetched to me... and that's saying something.”

“Only a dragon, can kill another dragon. I will not get into the details of how... but, when Akatosh bestows this power upon a mortal. They have the ability to permanently end a dragon's life. A Dragonborn is only created when the time for them is needed,” explained Bardac. “In all recorded history of Tamriel. There has only been seven Dragonborns, of which I am the most recent incarnation of the legend.”

Celestia looked down at the table thoughtfully. “Why were you chosen to be Dragonborn?” she asked, finally looking up at Bardac.

“No one knows why or for what reason Akatosh chooses a being to become Dragonborn,” said Bardac, leaning back on his chair as he watched the various waiters clear up the mountain of plates. “There are no rules or guidelines to being a Dragonborn. You are gifted with immense power... but learning how to use it? It is never ending.”

“That'd explain why you were able to go hoof to hoof with both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna,” said Light Flight, tapping her hoof on the table. “You said they're only chosen when the time for them is needed. What was it this time that needed a Dragonborn?”

“Alduin, the World Eater,” said Bardac, though he couldn't hide the venom in his voice as he spoke that wretched dragons name. “To make a very long, complicated tale short. If Alduin had triumphed. My world, Nirn... would of ceased to exist.”

“However, since you're sitting here in front of us. I can only assume you were victorious?” asked Celestia, taking in every last little detail that Bardac said.

“Many were lost, but in the end. Yes, Alduin was vanquished,” said Bardac. “He left his mark upon my world, a mark that will not soon be forgotten.”

Celestia thought for a moment. “But... why burden yourself? For one mortal, that is so much to bear.” she said slowly.

“It was my burden to bear, Celestia,” replied Bardac. “No one asked me to bear it, but Skyrim is my home and I shall defend it with my life for as long as my legs will carry me.” Sighing loudly, Bardac picked up his glass of water and drank slowly, his throat was feeling dry all of a sudden.

Silence rolled over the table once more, none of them knew quite what to say after that. It was then that Twilight looked out the window just in time to see Rarity and Fluttershy walking past, as well as, “Oh, looks like Fluttershy brought Discord along to the market,” said Twilight, giving them a cheery wave, though not really minding if they couldn't see her. Least she knew she waved.

Celestia's eyes widened as her head snapped towards the window. Clear as day, there stood Discord in full view of the window next to Fluttershy. “Oh no...” muttered Celestia.

“Buck...” grumbled Light Flight, hitting her forehead with her hoof. She just had to wait...

“...DISCORD!!”