Chapter Fourteen: Solidarity

It has been a rather long while since I have felt the necessity for one of these entries and far too many a year since I have felt a change like this. There have been moments in recent days when I had wondered if perhaps the cycle had been broken and peace was here to stay. Now I see that this is not so.

No, indeed it is not. The darkness stirs amongst the farthest corners of our world, where it has grown strong beyond our sight, hungry yet remaining patient. A storm looms, of that I am sure; you can smell it on the blowing winds. It cries with the howls of war and the louder its baying grows, the further from balance Harmony will fall-

/ / / Haven / / /

-Master Luminescent cracked one of his tired eyes open, a mischievous little smile tugging at his cheek while he listened to the faint sounds of hooves fading away down the hall, a playful gleam flashing in his gaze. After waiting to be sure that Silver Spark had gone Luminescent rolled over on his cushion so as to rest more comfortably on his belly, giving a contented sigh as he settled into the plush fabric. Folding his forelegs nattily in front of his chest for balance he stole one last glance at the hall, a quiet chuckle escaping him as his horn lit with magic.

Not wishing to be disturbed as he wrote Luminescent had feigned sleep, a tactic that had served him well over the years spent living amongst the young. With barely a thought he pushed a flicker of power down the length of his horn, growing thin strands of pale golden light that twirled and danced their way through the air. Under his guiding gaze the magic slowly reached beneath the folds of the pony’s perch, retreating moments later with a thin bundle of parchment in tow.

Sending off another tendril of magic in search of his discarded quill Luminescent regarded the assemblage of pages that floated lazily before him with a solemn look, his latest entry doing little to assuage his worries. Though true enough that the outcome had proven joyous, he remained leery of the darker edges the night had held. Even now his body shivered from an un-felt cold, the hairs of his nape ridged and twitching at ghosts.

Gingerly Luminescent let loose the length of red ribbon holding the journal together, the pages flipping open at the gentle coaxing of the magic that held them. He had not added to this collection for some considerable amount of time, it having been nearly a decade now since last he felt the need.

The old wizard's wrinkled face softened for a moment as he paused, a smile hinting at the corner of his mouth as the previous entry stared back at him. The entry itself was short, a scant few paragraphs pertaining to the success of a journey, a journey to a school. It was of the day that Star Swirl had been taken in by the order.

Luminescent had trained many youths over his many years, and had witnessed them achieve wonders all their own. Young Star Swirl though, he was destined to be special, for that colt held within him a spark that Luminescent had scarcely seen.

Turning the page to where he had left off Luminescent sighed tiredly, pleased nonetheless that his words then rang true now. Star Swirl had continued to exceed all expectations placed upon him, the previous evening being no exception, and further proof of his importance.

With a few smoky puffs and a belch of embers the nearby fireplace crackled to life. The action was a mere afterthought as Luminescent scrunched himself lower into his cushion, the all too real cold outside reaching in a little too far for his liking. The natural orange flames flickered with streaks of blues and greens as traces of the stallions’ magic heated the wooden fuel to ignition, quickly warming the room and filling the air with the inviting cracks and pops common of the mountain’s pitch laden trees.

Having tended to the needs of the fire Luminescent directed his returning quill towards an inkwell at the base of his perch, deftly wetting the tip before bringing it up beside his waiting journal. He spent a moment watching the firelight dance over the page as he collected his thoughts, a few deep breaths serving to steady his senses. The entry was nearly complete, only requiring a few additional words to summarize his earlier musings.

With his brow furrowing in concentration Luminescent placed his quill to the parchment and wrote. Should Harmony be swayed too far from the path set before us all, then I fear we should be doomed to once again repeat this endless cycle; creation and destruction ad infinitum.

After adding his signature and a date for reference Luminescent took a moment to read over his work, making certain the scant few paragraphs were adequate to convey what he felt needed said. It was likely that none would ever see these transcriptions, but he felt compelled all the same.

With a gentle breath across the page to help dry the ink, Luminescent slipped the ribbon around his little treasure and cinched it tight once more. He noted the fact that only a few unused pages remained before the bundle would be full, a sarcastic smirk took hold of his wrinkled face at the thought of having only a few short years left before he would need a new one.

That thought troubled him, his eyes growing somber as they glanced at the faded blue fur that adorned his leg, the once vibrant strands flecked with silver. A part of him wished that whatever was about to be had happened sooner, before time had taken so much of his strength. Only a few short years left, indeed…

Requiring a frustrating amount of effort Luminescent slowly convinced his body to clamber over the edge of his plush cushion and with a self encouraging grunt, eased himself into a standing position. With a spark from his horn the journal was deposited atop his back as he slowly shuffled for the door.

The walk to his room was a short one, though for a mind such as his it still left ample time for pondering and there was much for him to think about. It occurred to him that perhaps he should send word to their cousins in the far north; the eyes of the Citadel saw far. If any could see the beast lurking within the shadows, it would be them.

Terra and his Alicorns liked to think themselves masters over the world, yet as their hubris grew they had slowly lost touch with Harmony, the very thing that had led their kind to ascend. Now they quibbled and fought amongst each other just as any other race, every grievance becoming all the more trivial and it blinded them.

Luminescent left that thought in the hall as he entered his room, pausing just inside as his gaze swept over the deceptively plain space. His was a very simple dwelling when compared to most, a scant few trinkets and keepsakes adorning a single shelf below the one window. A plain wooden writing desk sat straight across from the door, several pieces of parchment and a quill waiting for when they would next be needed.

It was the bed that inevitably drew Luminescent’s dwindling attention though, his fidgeting mind again ignoring the fact that the tiny thing was barely big enough for a grown pony in favor of noting how well it matched the other décor perfectly. The quilts called to him with a promise of resting his weary bones. He could hardly wait.

Climbing into that warm embrace would have to be forestalled just a moment longer however, as there was another matter to which he would first need to attend. With a spark of magic the old journal on his back floated around to be scrutinized one last time, his eyes lingering a moment on a pair of symbols adorning the cover.

Sighing inwardly Luminescent approached a particularly smooth section of wall near the head of his bed, the wood polished and planed nearly to perfection, the life rings of the tree showing in the grain. Coming to a stop another barely discernible flash from the wizard's horn saw the heavy door to his room ease shut, a series of sound dampening wards flashing across the single cut piece of timber. Satisfied that he would have privacy for the moment he placed a hoof to the wall, the wood beneath the raised limb coming alight with a cold sapphire glow.

Lowering his leg Luminescent waited patiently as the light spread out over the wall, slowly resolving into a pair of equal sized panels that then dissolved from view, leaving a shallow space set further back within the wall. The only noteworthy feature of this hideaway being a few additional shelves carved straight into the wood of the tree; a concealed bookcase the likes of which one might expect to find within the home of a wizard.

Expectations would deceive however; absent were the tattered tomes filled with ancient wisdom and spells to dazzle the mind. In fact, these shelves contained little of any monetary value to anyone, just the cogitations of an old stallion. This was merely his journal, kept since he had come to this place. Gingerly Luminescent placed the most recent volume back amongst its brothers, dozens upon dozens of nearly identical booklets, the number denoting symbols marking it as nearly the hundredth in the collection.

Stepping back Luminescent felt his face harden as his mind took note of how little space was left upon the shelves; it was a sobering sight, yet another reminder to the twilight that had crept up on him. He had known it was coming, had felt it in his bones as of late. No pony could outrun time forever.

A familiar tickle near the tip of his horn told Luminescent that his time for self reflections would soon be cut short. Turning away Luminescent strode towards his desk, a quick glimmer of light from his horn and the panels returned to hide the shelves once more, the enchantment over his door deconstructing a moment later. He had just managed to take a natural enough looking seated position at his desk when a politely quiet knock came at his door, the familiar voice of Stardust Jade calling to him a moment later.

“Lumi, are ye still awake?” Stardust called, her inquiry just loud enough to be heard through the door. “Shadow has left out some stew to simmer, come share a quick meal with us, I’ll not have my head master turning in half starved.”

At these words Luminescent bid his door to open, the heavy piece of timber swinging gracefully out of the way in a pale cloud of magic and allowing Stardust to enter, something she did quickly lest he change his mind. Stepping into the room the aging mare gave the unused bed a surprised look, shaking her head as she walked over to stand beside the desk.

“Would not eat, and now will not sleep.” Stardust grumbled tetchily with a chuff. “Terra forgive me, for he passed on while under my watch. What should be next, must I pull you from this work by your scruff?”

Luminescent leaned back in his chair and reached out a hoof to gently embrace her shoulder, a far off look in his eyes as they met hers. “Where have the years gone, Jade?” he asked quietly, motioning to the letter he had just begun to read. “I cannot help but feel as though I have traded and fretted them away.”

“Fretted mayhaps.” Stardust replied softly, leaning into the hug a bit. “You have always been fraught with such concern for every pony, Lumi, but to say that your years grow short would put a grin to the face of any who know you.” She leaned her head close and gave him a caring nuzzle, a smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. “It is said by many that death itself cannot catch you, you tireless old fool, and do not think for a moment that I fail to remember your face on the day I was brought here as a wee lass.”

Luminescent cracked a smile of his own, distant memories playing through his mind as if they had happened yesterday. “You called me old,” he muttered distractedly. Reaching again for the letter that had attracted his attention, the sender being one of his many apprentices to complete their training and venture out into the world.

“You were old, and so driven,” Stardust said merrily, a few fond memories of her own coming to mind as she gave the letter Luminescent pulled closer an understanding nod. “Though, if I know you, you are still just as driven and will likely outlive us all. By Terra, the very thought of the Order carrying on with anypony else wearing the high master’s robes alone is probably enough to keep you going.”

Luminescent took pause at this, his gaze leaving the letter to glance beside him at the pile of neatly folded purple and blue cloth, the matching hat sitting neatly on top. “No, Stardust, you will make a fine high master when the time comes,” he said warmly, watching as her ears twitched. “Then, someday some little foal will call you old.”

“And it will earn them a smart bottom,” Stardust replied after a moment. A humor filled snort escaped her as she pulled away, her magic refolding the letter and pushing it further up the desk. “Now come, have a meal and listen to the exaggerations surly to be spun by young minds, work will always be there.”

Stealing one final glance at the letter Luminescent finally gave in and with a sigh, nodded his compliance. He knew that she was right, was nearly always right, and that some warm food would do him good. So with a smile he rarely offered to any other pony, he accepted the now beckoning hoof that helped him ease back to the floor and together the two friends followed their noses out of the room.

/ / / / / /

Star Shine wiped away a clump of fiery red mane that clung to her face, feeling a growl building in her throat as she tried to grip the now soapy sides of the tub, her back slipping ever further downwards. She wanted to scream and if not for her waterlogged lungs she most certainly would have. That, or used her magic to hurl this fool off the mountain; a proper stallion should know better than to invade a ladies’ bath!

Silver Spark, being Silver Spark, remained oblivious to Star Shine’s new predicament. Having decided that there was something needing said he was now bound and determined to say it and until he had all else was of secondary concern.

“Shine, I know you probably don’t want to hear anything that I have to say right now,” Silver started, striding a few steps closer as his gaze wandered around everywhere except the target of his words. “But I get the feeling that, if it is even possible, I may have disappointed you somehow…?”

Attempting to point an accusatory hoof at him Star Shine unfortunately lost her grip on the side of the tub, the mare’s eyes going wide as her back immediately slipped down the age worn wood. With a quickly muted shriek she slid down under the water, all four hooves flailing about at the surface.

“I know you are upset, Shine, and I had the whole walk up the mountain to do some thinking,” Silver continued as though nothing had happened, his eyes vacantly tracking the erratic motions in front of him. “And I agree with you wholeheartedly. Star Swirl should have put forth the effort to either move with greater haste, or simply taken care not to get spotted in the first place. I am certainly no pony to point hooves, but I can’t help feeling like this is at least partially his fault,” he added, casually dodging a flying clump of suds.

Getting no response Silver simply shrugged, figuring that if there were no interruptions then he could say his peace. “I can certainly understand where your feelings of disappointment are coming from, but keep in mind I only attracted say, half of the Yeti. So, from a certain point of view I really should only get half of the blame at most,” he said, stepping closer to the tub as the still flailing legs slowed their pace.

“I think that sounds fair, what about you, Star Shine?” Silver asked eloquently, his face losing some of its self centered aura as he watched the mare’s legs grow still and sink below the water. “Um, Shine…?” He asked casually, though a touch of concern lined his tone. “Shiny…?”

Silver moved up to the side of the tub and peered over the edge, frowning when he couldn’t see through the thick layer of soapy bubbles. “Shine, I know there are rules about this sort of thing but I will reach in there if I have to!”

As if on cue the burning red face of Star Shine rose out from the water, her fiery red and yellow mane hanging down around her shoulders was plastered over everything but her left eye, its pink iris glaring daggers. She leaned forwards until the end of her muzzle pushed into Silver’s, a very un-pony like growl escaping through her bared teeth.

“Oh, glad to see you’re alright, Shine. Did you have a good bath?” Silver sputtered as he shrank back a little, his own eyes locked on her clearly threatening one. “Because I really think we need to talk about Swirly, and how badly he fu-”

“Silver!!” Star Shine all but screamed at him, bringing her forelegs up to push him back. “Get out!”

Not entirely certain as to how he was now firmly planted on his posterior Silver gave the apparently angry mare a confused look, trying to discern what it was he had said wrong. “Please, Shine,” he managed to say with a bit more seriousness, rubbing at his soon to be bruised shoulder. “We really do need to talk.”

“I have nothing to say to you at the moment, Silver Spark,” Star Shine spat, heat filling her every word as she sat back in the water. Her eye was the only thing still above the edge of the tub. “Nothing kind, at any rate.”

“Come on Shine, is this still about the Yetis dying?” Silver asked with an exasperated tone. “I said I was sorry…”

Star Shine fixed him with a sour look, her horn sparking. “No you did not…”

“Oh,” Silver muttered, one ear leaning off to the side as he thought over their previous conversation, or at least the parts he remembered. “Well, if you promise not to blow my head off I’ll say it now.”

“No, Silver! Just get out and leave me be!” Star Shine hissed, wobbling about as she tried to get her legs organized underneath her in the still sloshing water.

“Please Shine?” Silver all but pleaded as he stood and took a step closer. “I just want a chance to explain some things.”

“I really think you should let him speak, Star Shine.” Shadow Depth called from the doorway as she and a rather embarrassed looking Star Swirl entered the room. “Otherwise he will become a bothersome mess and go around seeking our pity, and I have none to give.”

“I have no need of your pity, or any pony else’s for that matter,” Silver shot back confidently as the newcomers walked up beside him. “Because our dearest most beautiful Star Shine will get over this emotional baggage that is weighing her down and find it within her heart to forgive me.”

“Emotional baggage…?” Star Shine whispered dangerously with narrowing eyes, her words dripping with venom. “Is that what you call this, what I have to live with because of your stupid proclivity for barbarism!?”

“Well if my honesty is what you want then yes, I think it’s silly how worked up every pony is getting over a few Yeti that Star Swirl failed to avoid,” Silver said matter-of-factly, not noticing when the other two students backed away from him.

“Now Star Shine,” Star Swirl stammered from his place off to the side. “Remember our lessons about temperament control and proper breat-”

“In fact, if she can’t see how pointless her worries are over something this trivial then maybe she should get held back for some remedial lessons,” Silver Blurted. He was smiling triumphantly before, with a cringe his brain realized what the mouth had said…

Without a second’s pause Shadow Depth grabbed a gob smacked Star Swirl and the pair vanished as bolts of electricity arced across the wet floor, Star Shine’s mane smoking as her horn grew brighter and brighter…

Silver Spark was just about to take a page from the others’ book and teleport somewhere safe, like under a rock the next continent over, when he felt the pressure of a levitation spell coat his body. Star Shine’s magic squeezed him tight, its usually cool and gentle field responding in kind with her emotions was hot to the touch and writhed nearly out of control.

“Get! Out!” Star Shine screamed in a completely irate tone as she focused her magic, nearly strangling Silver before hurling him out the door. His body took a ninety degree turn in the hall and launched right out the front door.

Slamming the washroom door closed with a final burst of magic Star Shine cast nearly every securing spell she could think of, hardening a simple wooden door into a structure an Alicorn would need time to break through.

Burying her face in her hooves Star Shine let out a muffled scream before letting herself fall back against the end of the tub, pulling at her ears before dropping her limbs in exhaustion. She should have thrown him further; a mile was not far enough as she could still sense Silver’s magic forming some form of barrier to protect himself from what was sure to be a long fall…

Shine smirked to herself as she slowly got more comfortable. Silver could enjoy another nice cold walk up the mountain while she enjoyed the rest of her bath, a satisfying victory in her eyes. She would have words with that idiot to be sure, but for now it was all about her, just like she had wanted from the start.

After a few more moments of sliding around and fiddling with her legs Shine’s victorious smile faded with a low grumble. “Damn you Silver Spark…” She growled, realizing that her bath water had gone cold…

/ / / / / /

Star Swirl sat down heavily at his writing desk, a weary groan escaping him as he buried his face in his hooves. With a momentary flash of magic his tattered and dirty cloak left him, appearing on the floor across the room to be dealt with when his dwindling supply of effort allowed.

Massaging around his eyes he leaned forward to rest against the desk, sucking in as much air as his tired lungs could hold. Star Swirl held that breath for a good while, keeping it in until he could feel it burn.

“Damn you Silver…” Star Swirl finally whispered as he let the breath go free, willing his negative emotions to follow it. The technique was somewhat of a novelty in his collection of cultural wisdoms, something most other learned ponies would say should not be taken too seriously. Yet, with that said it had proven time and again to be the most effective anesthetic for the way he felt now.

Letting up on his temples Star Swirl leaned back in his chair, eyes flicking between the shadows cast by the candles over the natural curves and twists of the wooden ceiling. He had tried, by Terra he had tried to keep his dealings with that pony amicable over the years but this situation felt, unsalvageable.

Star Swirl had never cared much for making friends; he had them certainly but never more than a scant few who shared his greater interests. This thought caused him to pause as his mind wondered, his eyes stalling over a particularly deep shadow. Had he at some point began to consider Silver Spark as a friend?

As doubtful a prospect he found that to be Star Swirl could not shake the fact that despite his emotional control, which more often than not was considerable, he found the thought of distancing himself from Silver to be unfortunate. Aggravating though he may very well be at times, Silver Spark still held some good qualities, right?

The question was rhetorical of course; Silver would not be here otherwise. Silver Spark held within him a reason, even if Star Swirl could not see it at times. The logic spoke for itself in this matter. He sighed with an inward grumble as his head fell back limply. There were days when Star Swirl wished that his logical side would remain silent, and allow him to simply distress over a problem without end like a normal pony, a little wallowing might do him some good…

He would still need to say something, Star Swirl knew. She hid it well but he had seen the hurt on Star Shine’s face as they had left. How anypony could be so thick headed was beyond him and Star Swirl found himself pondering on just what it would take to make Silver truly see his own errors.

Such matters of social interaction were not his strong suit and in a momentary burst of frustration Star Swirl slammed a hoof down on his desk, racking his fatigued mind for some profound thought that might encourage Silver to see reason. Unfortunately, Silver Spark and profound thoughts didn’t seem to be very well acquainted…

The crinkle of dry parchment caught the pony’s ear, bringing Star Swirls’ focus back to more present things. Moving his hoof revealed yet another awkward feeling social obligation he often found tedious; though for this particular pony he willingly made exceptions.

With the faintest of smiles Star Swirl picked up the letter to his mother, having only just finished it minutes before they had been summoned to the castle he had not been able to send it. Now that he had the chance to read over his words again Star Swirl found himself wondering if it was a bit, lacking.

Looking over the regrettably short piece of parchment he read his letter once more…

Dearest mother

I regret that such an amount of time has passed since last you received any correspondence bearing my name and affections. I must be truthful, as of late my mind has found little time for thoughts of home and family, filled instead with advancements in study both scholarly and physical.

Star Swirl glanced down at part of the harness still wrapped firmly about his barrel, the straps that held his saddle bags and blade in place.

Master Luminescent has greatly increased the intensity of our lessons in recent months, granting little in the way of time for personal thought and reflection. I do not wish to cause you worry, but I cannot escape this feeling that he hides something from us.

He thought of Luna at that, having heard the name from the Queen’s own mouth. Perhaps a new Princess was a credible cause for secrecy. Even amongst her own kind Luna would be a point of political dispute.

I know not what awaits me here in the coming days, but I do know that together my fellow students and I shall weather it together, and that when time allows I will return home to you.

Love always~ your shining star

An impish smirk crossed Star Swirl’s muzzle as he read the last few lines, finding it odd just how easily he opened up for these more personal letters.

“That is so very sweet…” A voice cooed from just over his shoulder.

“Silver!” Star Swirl cried with an irate growl as he jumped, his hooves slamming down over his letter. “Have you no respect for the requested privacy implied by closed doors?! As with any pony I have moments that I would very much prefer others not see.”

Silver’s eyes shot a momentary glance at the parchment under his friend’s hooves. “What, writing a letter to your dear mother?” He asked knowingly, a mischievous look growing on his face. “Please, Star Swirl, I have walked in on you getting up to far more secretive things…”

The candles on Star Swirls’ desk flickered with the speed at which he turned in his seat to glare at Silver. The two ponies fell into an awkward silence for a few moments, the only sound being the occasional scrape and creak of the wind blown branches outside.

“So, I need your help Swirls,” Silver blurted out just as Star Swirl opened his mouth to say something else. Likely something very unpleasant…

Silver hopped up on Star Swirl’s bed and flopped over on his back dramatically, waiving his hooves about for emphasis. “Apparently, all of the thinking I did on the walk up was not the right kind of thinking!” He said with a shrill almost pleading tone, dropping his hooves to his sides in a defeated manner. “So now I need your help thinking of whatever thoughts I should have thought of.”

For a moment Star Swirl was stunned into silence, simply leaning back into his chair for a moment before his face slowly twisted into a scowl.

“What, Silver? What makes you think that I would help you after all that?” Star Swirl asked with a cold growl, his forelegs crossing over his chest as his ears flattened. “Why come to me…?”

Silver rolled over slightly to better look at his fellow student, a surprising look of hopefulness in his eyes. “Because I think I may have messed up with Shine, Swirly. And because you are the smartest pony I know,” Silver Spark said slowly, his own ears wilting. “And because you’re my best friend…”

Again Star Swirl found himself stunned, able to do little more than simply stare at his intruder. The possibility that Silver would actually find his own mistake was a conclusion that he had considered, just not found it probable.

After nearly a minute star Swirl finally found his voice, his face hardening. “We are not friends, Silver Spark,” he stated firmly, watching the impact of his every word carefully. “Not if you intend on treating every situation like some kind of joke! Are you even aware of how you make other ponies feel, or how you made Star Shine feel? How you made me feel?”

“I will not deny that mistakes were made by the both of us. I am far from perfect,” Star swirl continued, watching Silver’s eyes for signs that anything was getting through. “But your reckless egotistical showboating has got to stop Silver! Lives were ended last night in an engagement that could have been avoided if you had not been so blinded by the desire to show us up! Admit it, Silver! You could have easily outmaneuvered beasts as simple minded as those Yeti!

Silver lifted his head as if to interject but Star Swirl was having none of it; he wanted to drive in the final nail to the coffin for Silver’s ego and he knew exactly where to place it.

“And did you stop to consider why Star Shine is so furious with you, Silver?” Star Swirl asked somewhat more calmly as he cooled the anger in his voice, leaning in with hard eyes. “You hurt her, Silver. True enough the two of us may have been capable of rectifying the situation ourselves, but having just arrived she could not have known that. And so, she was forced to choose. In her eyes it was us, or them.”

Star Swirl leaned in just a bit closer, his own emotions bubbling under the surface, but he maintained control. “She chose you, Silver. In a matter of life and death she chose you and did what it took to save your sorry flank, by killing most of our attackers, or did you already forget how many of them were hurled off the mountain…?”

Leaning away Star Swirl glanced back at the letter to his mother, the situation reminding him of how she would scold him and how she always seemed to sneak in a lesson no matter the height of her anger.

“Killing has always been an emotionally scarring thing for her, Silver. As somepony claiming to be her friend and aspiring to be more I would have expected you to be aware of that. But to force it upon her only to then make light of the whole situation goes well beyond hurtful, it is selfish and a grievous breach of trust. Trust between friends is a valuable thing, Silver. Or is that another of Luminescent’s lessons that you have forgotten?”

“Star Swirl I…?” Silver Spark began to mutter, looking away as if trying desperately to avoid saying whatever it was he had to say.

“No, Silver. I don’t want to hear it! If admitting that just for once you were wrong is too much for you then we are done here. I’m sorry but I have run out of hope for you, I am done. I appreciate what you did for me up on that mountain but until you realize the cost you placed on others and what you could have done to avoid it, I wash my hooves of you.”

“Star Swirl, I’m sorry.” Silver blurted out, sitting up with a look that showed focus for the first time since the conversation began. “Everything you’ve said, everything Shine said, it’s all true alright!” He admitted, his shoulders slumping. “But how is it fair for you to expect so much from me? How is it fit for you to sit there and point hooves and say where I could have done things differently?! What makes you so certain that I could have?”

“Because you’re better than me dammit!” Star Swirl growled as he spun back to face his fellow student, eyes darting around as if searching the other pony for something hidden. “You’re better than me, Silver, I know you are. You’re better than Star Shine for Aeterna’s sake! You could have been the one Luminescent chose; you could have been so many things that Shadow and I never will, but you hold yourself back with this idiotic attitude. A lust for conflict and a general lack of empathy; you do not want to know who I overheard say that about you.”

“Master Luminescent,” Silver Spark said lamely, rubbing at his bruised shoulder. “I heard him too…”

“Then why, Silver, hmm?” Star Swirl asked quietly, his tone taking on a more gentle aspect. “Why can’t you just be a little less of an ass…?”

For an answer Silver simply hung his head, offering the slightest of shrugs before falling to his side again and curling his legs to his chest.

“It hurts, doesn’t it?” Star Swirl asked after nearly a minute of silence spent watching Silver’s eyes dart around, clearly thinking hard about something. After seeing him nod Star Swirl reached out with a hoof and patted his friend gently. “Good, then perhaps the next time one of us is about to die you will consider every option, not only those of a self serving nature.”

Silver’s ears perked up at this as he glanced back at Star Swirl, a questioning look in his eyes. “The next time, what happened to having washed your hooves of me?”

“General semantics, Silver Spark,” Star Swirl said with a somewhat mean spirited looking smile, crossing his forelegs over his chest in a smug manner. “Coming to me for help in of itself is proof that you are at least aware of your misdoings. If you are genuine in this admission and are willing to work at better presenting yourself in the future then I will help you, and I may even apologize for pushing so hard. And someday, when I feel you have earned it, I may even forgive you.”

“Does this mean we’re friends again?” Silver asked carefully, shying back when Star Swirl’s eyes narrowed.

“Earn your forgiveness first, Silver. Then we shall talk,” Star Swirl replied firmly, though his face softened a bit.

“That is fair enough I suppose,” Silver said as he made to get up, a smile touching his muzzle as a thought occurred to him. “You know, it’s funny, but this reminds me strangely enough of a fight we had not long after we met. Do you recall?”

Star Swirl let his legs drop as he thought back, his own mind having brought up the same conversation. “How could I forget, it was the first time I ever struck another pony out of anger.”

“And yet you wound up thanking me afterwards for shining a light on the weaknesses in your self control,” Silver Said with a weak chuckle. “I still remember how we patched that up, I must have given the sappiest apology ever, and what was it you told me at the end of it?”

Star Swirl rolled his eyes as he thought about it, about something that now sounded so much more childish that it had then. “Yes, I put you on the, not completely hopeless list,” He said after a few moments of reflection, remembering how completely serious he had sounded.

After a few minutes spent in contemplative silence, neither pony seeming to have much left to say Silver Spark was eventually the one to break the silence.

“For whatever it may be worth, Star Swirl,” he said, getting up off the bed to leave. “I am glad to have known a pony who thought I was worthy of such a list, and friend or not, it has been an honor to know you.”

Star Swirl just watched him go for a moment, holding his tongue until Silver was nearly out the door. “Wait, Silver,” he called, climbing off his chair to approach his fellow student. “I may not like you most of the time; in fact I know that I do not, but I also know something else. No pony is ever hopeless,” he said, reaching out and patting Silver’s bruised shoulder vigorously.

Silver just blinked a few times, though he smiled through clenched teeth as his demeanor brightened. It was an awkward moment but eventually they both shared a more genuine smile that seemed to melt the last of the bitterness.

Silver cleared his throat with a sheepish sidelong look as Star Swirl slowly lowered his leg from his shoulder. “So, I hear there’s food, would you care to…?” Silver asked halfheartedly, letting the question hang in the air.

“Absolutely,” Star Swirl said with an awkward cough into the back of his hoof before motioning for Silver to lead the way. As one the pair made their way out of the room and headed down the hall, a newfound understanding of one another that would ultimately help them grow into better ponies.

“So, what was that bit about me being better than you…?” Silver asked suddenly, completely shattering the moment.

“Don’t push it Spark...”

/ / / Canterlot Castle / / /

With a sound he barely heard Rush pushed open the door to his own personal quarters, his exhausted mind scraping together just enough wherewithal to form a thought of thanks to the royals for their generosity, however unnecessary the gesture. His was not a lofty rank; the appointment could easily be described as a ‘groom of the chamber’, if one wished to be specific. In truth Rush would have been perfectly happy being housed within the servants’ quarters further below in the castle; this little nicety had come at Aeterna’s insistence, though admittedly it had grown on him.

Leaving the door to slowly drift shut on its own Rush plodded into the room, casting the bed a longing look as he set about putting away the few effects he still carried, having not seen the satin sheets of his dear friend in nearly three days now. There had been several times when the healers had attempted to dismiss him, saying that an Alicorns’ labor could take days. It made him smile for he surely must have looked the fool, a lone Pegasus stubbornly planting his hooves with wings flared, a tiny sparrow refusing the order to move in a room full of ancient eagles.

His resolve had been solidified however when a voice filled with strain had risen above all the indignant shouts of protest, a voice that asked him to stay, the voice of his Queen. Even Terra's normally stony face had seemed to lose some of its confidence, searching for reassurance when he found so little in his squabbling advisors.

Nearly walking muzzle first into the wall beside his window Rush slowly left his thoughts for a brief moment, setting his focus on the single shelf running along the sill. Stretching out a wing he unfurled his checklist one last time, scanning over it with a diligent gaze. Finding no error nor incomplete tasks that would require his attention the exhausted Pegasus set about removing the other effects he carried.

From differing places nestled within his feathers Rush pulled a few quills, a tiny stopper filled with ink, as well as a booklet containing a copy of his majesties’ schedules. There was also his backup checklist, naturally. An assortment of other items would have followed had Rush not forgone his usual tunic, having been in a similar state of undress when the urgent summons had arrived.

The outfit was really just a formality, being that you would be hard pressed to find a palace regular that did not recognize him on sight. Still though, it was of supremely fine quality and in Rush’s own opinion, made him look rather dapper.

Having placed the last of his items neatly in a perfect row right where they belonged Rush moved back over to the bed, hooves practically dragging as he walked. Plopping down on his haunches Rush pulled an old trunk out from where it was hidden below the mattress. He just sat there a moment, a forehoof resting gently atop the age worn wood, finally allowing his jumbled thoughts to run wild.

It was nothing but paranoia that eventually caused his hoof to slide down the face of the chest, stopping above a stone carved with runes that would recognize him as the owner. With a brief flash of light Rush could hear the thick brass latches moving aside, the lid unlocking in order for him to lift it away.

Just inside the lid was another of his tunics, pressed and folded, ready for when he had need of it. A good servant was always prepared. With great care not to wrinkle the fine fabric he pulled the spare item of clothing from its place at the top of a pile of other belongings.

A sparse collection of differing dress garments followed the first, being deposited neatly beside each other on the bed. Beneath these were a few letters, correspondence from family living too far abroad to contact easily, years worth of life confined to a few sheets of parchment.

Pulling free the last letter caused something near the bottom of the trunk to shift, a dull metallic clunk filling the normally quiet room. Hesitantly Rush set the letter aside and peered into the chests dim interior, knowing full well what he should expect to see. Yet, a part of him remained at odds with the sight that greeted him.

About a third of the way down a thin piece of silk cloth lay atop the rest of the contents, concealing them from view. A few obvious lumps and edges protruded through the fabric, giving only a vague clue as to what lay beneath. Rush knew all too well the secrets this chest held and now that his King had revealed one in kind, Rush found himself wondering how much longer his would remain buried.

Reaching into the depths Rush gently brushed the side of a familiar shape hidden beneath the fabric, feeling the strength of the finely crafted steel, the sensation offering a semblance of reassurance. A moment of nostalgia took over his thoughts as Rush let his eyes search over the rune covered silk, the ceremonial crest of his family banner emblazoned across the center. The sight was a comfort; the days ahead were sure to be rife with troubles and it did his heart good to know that if the time came he could honor his oath. A good servant was always prepared.

He was about to pull the family’s banner aside when a knock came at the door, causing Rush to pull his hoof away on instinct and place himself between the door and his chest. He stood there for a moment in an exhausted stupor, until his brain caught up and recognized the pattern with which his visitor had struck the door.

Settling out his ruffled wings and assuming a more composed stance Rush set his gaze upon the door. “Enter,” he said loudly, knowing whoever waited would not do so until called.

After a brief pause the door slowly swung inward, a faint creak followed close by the clop of hooves. Rush easily recognized the teal coat of the pony that entered his room. The stallions had seen a lot of each other over the last few years; the royals had moved Rush ever nearer to their sides and this fellow Pegasus always seemed close by.

“Ardarius,” Rush welcomed with a familiar nod, allowing his tensed muscles to relax a bit. The Horizon Legion were among the finest warriors the race of Pegasi had to offer, unparalleled in the art of mid flight combat and endurance soaring and among their number the name Ardarius was renowned.

“Rush,” the newcomer replied with a similar greeting, though his nod was somewhat more rigid, a forced façade. His entire demeanor seemed off somehow, rattled even.

In Rush’s eyes the stallion was clearly troubled by something, though he was clearly making an admirable attempt at hiding it. Thanks to his years spent around dignitaries and politicians Rush had developed a talent for spotting those trying to hide things from him; those grit teeth and slowly twisting back hoof might as well have been waiving illuminated flags.

“My apologies for the interruption, Rush,” Ardarius said quietly, glancing out at the hall as he eased the door shut behind him. “I come seeking what I hope to be a simple favor.”

“Think nothing of it,” Rush replied simply, waiving away the concern with a hoof. “There were no goings on which to interrupt. How might I be of help?”

Ardarius let his gaze drift past Rush, a knowing look flashing in his eyes when they landed on the open trunk. “As you say, still I should not keep you. There is importance to be found in a well organized coffer,” he said respectfully, nodding towards the orderly row of items sitting atop the bed. “I had merely wished to borrow your, aid, for improving one’s concentration.”

“My aid? The Serpent’s Tail?” Rush asked with a hint of surprise, his brow furrowing. “Tis little more than a simple toy, what need have you for that?” He finished, turning to retrieve the requested item regardless.

“I…” Ardarius fell silent for a moment, his face hardening as he searched his thoughts. “I became, distracted today whilst on post,” he finally managed, sounding almost as if confessing to a crime.

“I, see…” Rush muttered, rearing up to reach a higher shelf. It seemed a rather small thing to him, the very act of breathing could prove a distraction for some. Still though, Ardarius was very much a pony of focus and well known for his attention to detail. “What then might I ask drew you from your task; perchance you caught sight of that Snipe?”

With an indignant snort Ardarius did his best to ignore the other stallion and his little rapscallion grin. “Nay, I was not befouled by any such mythical creature,” he grumbled, a bit of irritation entering his tone. “In truth I am at a loss. I was at a hover just below the easternmost window of the Royal sleeping chamber when, suddenly I realized that I could scarcely recollect the previous few moments. They were not gone as such, but I found that I had lost my place in visually scanning the airspace around me.”

That gave Rush pause, the wing retrieving the item he sought only partially retracting as he returned to all fours. Losing focus was one thing, but for a well trained Pegasus to lose track of their surroundings was often cause for concern. Ardarius may have been well traveled, but he was far from being old and any of the typical health concerns that came with advanced age.

“Tell me,” Ardarius spoke up after a moment, a touch of uncharacteristic concern at the edge of his voice. “Have you seen or heard or, felt, anything strange about recently?”

Rush opened his mouth to respond but hesitated, the King’s words flickering through his mind as he closed it again. Strange things were indeed afoot, things which Rush did not yet know with whom he could trust…

Snap...

First off I would like to apologize for this ridiculously long delay. Things have been really odd for me the last few months involving a move and some family related matters. That said though I hope to get back to more regular updates now, which should be easier since the next few chapters are already partly completed.

I would also like to thank everyone who is still here, this story is mostly for you and will continue for as long as there is at least one pony fan left to enjoy it! So, sorry again and I hope you all enjoy the ride, we’ve done our best to make it a good one!

Hope you all enjoyed! Next chapter coming real soon! Ish…

This story will continue!

Love ~Dollars