FSE

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Sometimes the most terrifying thing in the world can be something as simple as standing in front of a large group, especially when that group is comprised of children. Fierce Charge had been drafted by the Cutie Mark Crusaders as their Show and Tell project. To Fi, a better term would have been offering rather than project. When he arrived at the school house early that morning he had met with the teacher of the foals, Miss Cheerilee. She was a charming middle aged mare with what Fi could tell was a deep passion for educating young foals. Nothing in the world would distract this mare from her duty to teach... except perhaps a dashing stallion standing behind her students.

When Fi discovered the projects wouldn't be shown until after the midday lunch hour he had apologized for coming so early and offered to return for the girls presentation. She had adamantly refused the offer, and insisted he spend the day with the class so that the students would be able to observe the behavior of a disciplined stallion of the royal guard. He conceded and assured her that he would be sure to keep the students focused should they stray from their work to watch him. The foals turned out to be the least of his worries. From the beginning of the school day Cheerilee had been lecturing the class on various subjects, but she seemed rather distracted. On more than one occasion, Fi noticed her gaze on him, an almost admiring look on her face. It made Fi's coat ruffle more than once.

By the time the noon bell rang Fi had never been so relieved to be going to lunch. He had taken a few steps from the school house door when he was stopped by the sound of his name behind him. He reluctantly turned around to acknowledge Cheerilee who had made it outside before he escaped completely. Fi put on his best smile to hide his slightly irritated mood. Cheerilee seemed fooled and quickly trotted over to him wearing a warm smile.

"I'm glad I caught you Captain. I was wondering if you would like to join me for lunch. I've got enough food packed to split between us, and it is such a beautiful day out today. A picnic is just what we need to relax after this morning's lectures." Cheerilee said while she nonchalantly moved closer to Fi.

"I was just on my way to pick up a couple sweet buns from Sugar Cube Corner... but if you insist I would be delighted Miss Cheerilee." Fi reluctantly agreed when his first thought caused her face to drop. His reversal brought back the pleasant smile she had worn most of the morning for him, and even though he had wanted time away from her he was glad he hadn't upset her.

"Wonderful, I'll be right back out with our lunch." Cheerilee said before rushing back into the school house. When she emerged from the small building she carried a pink saddle bag on her back that had her cutie mark stitched on the flap, "There, I'm all set. Shall we go find a cozy spot to relax?"

Fierce Charge nodded before sauntering off down the peaceful dirt road toward the outskirts of Ponyville. The cottages and shops became scarcer the farther they walked from Town Hall until they found themselves in an area that Fi, being a city pony, compared to a park. The grass was just the right length. The trees were just full enough to provide comfortable shade. A small lake was visible not too far away. It was like an Eden right outside of town. Fi almost lost track of what was going on until he heard Cheerilee struggling slightly with her saddle bags. When he noticed her becoming irritated he strode over to her side and laid a hoof on her shoulder.

"Allow me." Fi said before gripping the straps with his teeth and gently lifting the bags off her back. Cheerilee stood calmly and shuddered softly when his teeth grazed her back ever so lightly.

"Such a gentlestallion you are." Cheerilee commented with a teasing tone.

"Always glad to lend a hoof, my lady." Fi replied after placing the bags on the ground softly.

"Oh stop teasing me, it's embarrassing." Cheerilee said unconvincingly while she set out a blanket she had stored in one of the bags.

Fierce Charge watched her work for a moment before allowing the scenery surrounding them to distract him. He'd never been around so much nature before. The gardens at Canterlot Castle were beautiful, but they were tame and maintained. Ponyville was alive with nature unkempt. It was clear that the trees had been kept from growing totally out of control, but at least they remained shaped like trees. He pictured briefly a large maple tree he'd admired once that the gardeners had shaped into a heart for some event or another. Chuckling softly he turned his attention once more to Cheerilee who had by then finished setting up the food on a few plates and was just then laying down on her belly to relax. He walked over and settled down across from her and then watched her slice a rather tasty looking dandelion sandwich in half. She nudged one half over to him and he gladly accepted it and ate slowly to both savor the flavor, and avoid looking like a pig.

Cheerilee watched Fi with bated breath as he ate his first bite. When he smiled and eagerly continued she was immediately relieved and ate freely. It was truly a pleasant day to spend a lunch hour outdoors. By the time half the hour had passed the pair of them had filled their bellies with the sandwich, a slice of healthy carrot cake, two cups of strawberry lemonade, and a single mint candy each. Fi had been the first one finished thanks to his need for food; he had skipped breakfast because he assumed he would be done at the school early. Once Cheerilee finished her meal she cleaned up the mess and then stretched out on the blanket. A few moments passed in silence before she spoke softly.

"It's really nice to just relax like this, wouldn't you agree Captain?" She said while glancing at Fi out of the corners of her half closed eyes.

Fi didn't like that look, it reminded him too much of Rarity, but he smiled and nodded his approval, "It's always good to get a moment of peace. And please call me Fi; I will be getting enough of that formal talk when my ponies arrive this afternoon."

Cheerilee was taken aback, but it faded quickly and was replaced with what could be described as elation, "Alright then, Fi."

"Isn't that better?" Fi asked while smiling warmly.

"Yes it is actually, it almost feels like we've come upon some sort of... milestone in our relationship." Cheerilee said while looking down at her hooves as she rubbed them together softly.

Fi felt a ping in his head as he heard the words escape her mouth. Was there no end to the mares of Ponyville and their testing of his resolve? Perhaps he was putting too much thought into what she had said. He could be entirely wrong about Cheerilee and her choice of words. He sighed rather pitifully as he realized he was over reacting to such small things. Cheerilee merely meant that they had come far enough to call each other by name without formal titles, that's all. The idea of it brought a smile to his muzzle and immediately soothed his nerves, until he glanced over at Cheerilee. She had set her eyes upon him and she was giving him the same half lidded look Rarity had given him.

"I uh... really prefer everyone of civilian status to call me Fi. It makes ponies more comfortable when speaking to me." Fi replied with as much finesse as he could manage.

"Oh, I am very comfortable speaking to you Fi, regardless of the fact that you're a Captain of the guard." Cheerilee said with a fierce poker face, which Fi found incredibly intimidating.

Fierce Charge was immensely relieved to hear the bell sounding the first hour of the afternoon. He and Cheerilee cleaned up their lunch mess and together they walked back to the school house. Fi remained silent the entire hike back while Cheerilee insisted on pointing out the various 'fun facts' about Ponyville. It was pleasant to listen to something other than praise or flirtatious advances, but Cheerilee was relentless with the intense looks she kept giving him. It occurred to Fi that she might have accumulated such prowess with facial expressions from having to deal with fillies and colts every day. Being able to manipulate the actions of young ones was a helpful skill for both parents and educators alike, and Fi wagered Cheerilee merely had to look at an unruly foal to convey her desire that they calm down.

Once the two of them had returned to the school house Fi took his position at the back where he had been in the morning while Cheerilee stood by the door welcoming each returning foal to the classroom. Few of the students paid Fi any attention after spending so much time with him, but of those that looked his way were his three little friends Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. Upon seeing him there in the morning the three of them were ecstatic, but they had been told to behave by Cheerilee so they settled for giving him several glances every few minutes or so. Now that it was time for the foals to give their presentations they gathered around him chatting about what they would say to the class about him. Fi listened and watched with amusement as they focused heavily on his cutie mark rather than who he was.

Once the presentations had begun the fillies were appalled when they discovered they wouldn't be presenting first. In fact, Cheerilee placed the three of them at the very end of the list on the blackboard. When confronted about it by Scootaloo, Cheerilee merely stated that she was "saving the best for last" while she gave Fierce Charge another of her quick, half lidded looks. Fi blushed when he heard her say the words and laughed it off as if she hadn't just implied that he was the best of anything. Time passed and each of the students presented their Show and Tell items. Some had brought treasures, other brought pets, and a few brought stories to tell about their family or friends from different cities. One rather pompous filly brought a sparkling diamond necklace that her father had bought her just the other day. For each young pony Fi made sure to applaud them, even if they had presented something unattractive; he wanted each of them to know that he supported them even though he was there for his three little filly friends. When it finally came time for the Crusaders to present to the class, Fi followed the three of them to the front and stood at attention.

"All right you three, you can start whenever you are ready." Cheerilee said while settling down comfortably on her haunches.

"Okay, so, this is Fierce Charge, the new Captain of the... Imperial... Guard Forces, right?" Scootaloo said questioningly toward Fi who gave her a quick nod and a smile.

"Well duh, we know that already." The pompous filly from earlier said while wearing a smug smile.

"You hush up there, Diamond Tiara." Apple Bloom said angrily, but kept her voice down.

"I bet they're going to tell us about how he lives in the tower outside of town." The pony named Diamond Tiara said while laughing.

"How about instead of being critical, you all simply ask me something you don't know about. That'll stop you from being a bully and help move things along." Fi interrupted and his words caused the class to laugh, but now at Diamond Tiara's expense.

The first pony to raise a hoof was a small pudgy blue unicorn colt with brown hair, "What's it like to be a guard pony?"

"It's a big responsibility. Equestria is full of trouble, even if you can't see it coming, and when it does come us guards have to be ready to stop it. The princesses depend on the guards to keep them safe and to protect Canterlot from invasion, like they did when the changelings attempted a coup." Fi replied.

"What's a coup?" A small filly with bright red hair and a slight lisp asked timidly.

"A coup is a hostile takeover. They can be very quick and quiet, or they can be very loud and last months. It all depends on the situation. Back then it was the loud and quick kind, but Captain Shining Armor and his mate stopped that easily enough." Fi said with a warm smile.

"If you're some kind of guard, why aren't you wearing your uniform armor?" Diamond Tiara asked smugly.

"Out of respect for the generosity of Ponyville and her citizens the princesses have given the new guard a new kind of armor that we don't need to wear all the time. It saves your town from the loud obnoxious sound of clanking metal. It's also a whole heck of a lot more comfortable to go nude." Fi said while smiling wider. The classroom erupted in soft giggles and chuckles.

"What's that thing around your neck mister Captain sir?" A faceless voice sounded from the back of the class.

"This?" Fi asked while he lifted his hoof to the neck guard that held his badge, "This is just a simple neck guard worn for protection. The badge is something more than a simple badge. If I were in need of my armor I need only strike it with my hoof and my armor will appear on my body with the help of powerful teleportation spells."

"Would it be too much to ask for a demonstration Fi?" Cheerilee asked from the side.

"It would be a pleasure, Miss Cheerilee." Fi replied before striking his badge. The resulting flash of light caused all the ponies watching to cover their eyes for a moment, but Fi soon heard small gasps and squeals of glee.

"Oh wow that was so cool!"

"Look at his wings!"

"Where can I get one of those?"

Fi stood there blushing rather badly as the entire class gushed over his armor. It didn't help to look at Cheerilee, because she too had become enamored by his new look. Not wanting their classmates to lose focus the Crusaders finally asked the question they had been burning to ask since they had first seen him.

"Can you tell us how you got your cutie mark Fi?" Scootaloo asked loudly enough to get the rest of the class to quiet down.

"Ugh, not this again..." Diamond Tiara groaned dramatically.

The Crusaders gave her a terribly dangerous look, one of those 'if looks could kill' moments older ponies tend to refer to, while Fierce Charge watched sheepishly.

"I-I'd be more than happy to share the story with you kids if it's all right with Miss Cheerilee." Fierce Charge said to break the silence.

"I don't see why not. These three have heard every cutie mark story in town; they might as well add yours to the list."

"Well, it all started when I was just a little colt, no older than you all..." Fi began.

~Sometime In the Past~

It was a beautiful summer day. The sun had been lifted at just the right angle so that the entire city of Canterlot glowed. Thankfully a northern wind had swept through cooling the air so that ponies were comfortable when walking the streets. With the beginning of the new school term approaching, many young fillies and colts had taken to spending every moment they could outside. The Earth ponies usually wandered the parks enjoying games on the solid ground. Unicorns dominated the shopping district enjoying sweets and the many baubles visible in the shop windows. That left the young Pegasi to wander the sky, rooftops and nearby mountain side.

Some Pegasi youngsters were allowed to venture out to Cloudsdale to stretch their wings. For those left flightless due to inexperience they had to rely on their hooves to get them places, and Cloudsdale was not a simple walk away. A small group of Pegasi had taken over the northern most corner of a small park in Canterlot's residential district. The local Earth pony foals had begrudgingly sacrificed the area for their winged neighbors, but squabbles over territory happened often. One such argument had started early in the afternoon between the two groups. The Earth foals decided that the oak tree wasn't a good enough marker for the boarder, so they wanted to push it further into Pegasi territory. The current leader of the Earth foals, a spirited golden coated colt named Silver Platter, was standing opposite a red coated Pegasus foal everyone knew by the name of Melody.

"I said you need to go back to your place!" Silver Platter shouted while giving the poor little filly a shove.

She landed on her rump and yelped before her eyes glazed over, "Hey that wasn't nice..."

"What's not nice is you 'wingers' coming over to our part of the park. If you want to have more space, then learn to fly and get outta here." Silver Platter replied while thrusting his snout into the air.

"I was just trying to get my ball back; it fell over by that tree..." Melody said pitifully.

Silver Platter and two of his lackeys standing to either side of him laughed heartily, "That blue one? Hah! That's our ball now; it's on the Earth pony side."

"But... its mine; my grandma gave it to me!" Melody yelled defiantly while tears fell from her eyes."

"If you want it back then you gotta get passed the three of us. If you can get it and get back to your side then it's yours." Silver Platter offered while wearing a rather unconvincing innocent grin.

Melody stood on her hooves before drying her forest green eyes. Her little red coated frame steadied and her front hooves dug at the ground like a steer on the rampage. With a huff and a little snort she made a break for her ball. She had only run about three feet before she was blocked by one of the colt's lackeys. She gave a cry of surprise before skidding to a halt in front of him. With her current path barred, she drove her hooves into the ground and made to run around the obstacle. She found her new route blocked by a second Earth pony who laughed when she tripped and landed on her belly.

"Look at her puny little wings!" One colt said while laughing.

"Check out that ugly red coat and mane, she looks like a funny pony shaped apple!" The second colt lackey cried with glee.

Melody stood up slowly, fighting back tears, before she was shoved to the side and knocked off her hooves once more by the leader of the pack. Silver Platter sneered as he looked down at Melody with disdain. It was clear that this colt had been brought up badly by bigoted parents. His unwarranted hatred of the little filly was both undeniable, and unforgivable.

"Hey you fat headed bully!" A voice rang out from the direction of the Pegasi play ground.

Silver Platter turned on his hooves and nearly toppled over in his haste to see who had insulted him so, "Who said that!?"

Standing ten feet away was a small colt with a coat of shining silver fur. His little mane was long enough to drape down to the right. The mane that made it to the top of his head stood spiked up and leaning forward to cast a soft shadow over his brow. On his back two little wings stood at attention, flared out to emphasize his current mood: angry. He flicked his head making his mane flip so that the draping waterfall of hair then favored the left side of his neck. He then gave a soft snort as he walked over to join the group. Melody watched him closely before she ran to join the new Pegasus by his side, or rather, to hide behind him slightly as she sniffled.

"Was it you that made fun of my head?" Silver Platter asked while his two lackeys joined him by his sides.

"Sure was fat head." The new colt replied defiantly.

"How dare you make fun of me?! My dad is a very powerful pony and he will have your mom and dad begging him to not get you back!" He said as his voice rose in fury.

The Pegasus colt merely laughed at him, "Like I give a darn about you and your poppa. Just give me her ball back and I'll say I am sorry."

Silver Platter sneered as he listened to the offer, but then he grinned widely as if some profound inspiration had just struck him, "Oh her ball you say? How about we give you the same deal? If you can reach it and get back to your side of the park then you can keep it."

"I was watching you; you were way too rough with her, and then you made fun of her. You are a colt; you should have better manners than that. My momma taught me how to act with fillies. I guess yours must have trouble getting stuff into that fat head of yours."

"Shut up! You heard my deal, take it or leave it." Silver Platter reiterated, his voice betraying him by showing his frustration.

The Pegasus colt thought it over, his face very pensive as he analyzed the situation slowly like his poppa had always told him, "Ok I'll take it, but you had better be ready."

Silver Platter nodded as he once again wore a very smug, knowing grin. He had no doubt in his little pony mind that he would again prove the superiority of Earth ponies on solid ground. He and his two friends took up positions between their enemy and the prized ball. So much trouble to be caused over such a small thing, but to foals every moment in life was the most important moment of their lives. Melody watched her new best friend flex his wings in a very Rainbow Dash-like fashion. He then eyed the three ponies in front of him with excitement and anticipation. A cool breeze drifted by smelling faintly of fresh cut grass and a hint of cherry cheese tart. Nearby young ones had stopped their activities just to watch what was going on. Silver Platter licked his lips slowly out of habit to wet them and tasted the hint of sweat and dirt. No one made a move.

Suddenly the smaller of the two colts standing behind Silver Platter shifted his hooves. Both his two fellows glanced at him ever so slightly. It was all the distraction the Pegasus colt needed. He broke from his position and ran at top speed through their midst. By the time Silver Platter had regained his composure he caught only a glimpse of a flaming red tail tip whipping past. The second in the group, the larger lackey who wore a white coat of fur and a yellow mane, side stepped in an effort to block their attacker's advance. He was thrown to the side roughly as the Pegasus made no effort to dodge and just barreled through him. As he lied there crying because he had been pushed down, the third pony who had disturbed their concentration made to redeem himself by creating a wall with his body. Seconds passed as he watched the Pegasus charge forward toward him. At the last moment the pony whinnied and ducked his head down in anticipation of the incredible crash.

The Pegasus grinned as he ran and then gave a great yell as he leapt clear over the cowering colt and used his flightless wings to glide the last few feet over to the ball that had been sitting by the tree. Every Pegasus in the small corner of the park that had been theirs gave a cheer of victory. Their cries were only overpowered by the loud, angry yell of Silver Platter.

"No fair, you used your wings!" Silver Platter yelled as he stomped the ground in an almost cute demonstration of fury.

"I heard no rules. All I heard was get to the ball and get the ball back to my side. So instead of crying like a newborn come and get me, punk!" The Pegasus said while rolling the ball around with his right front hoof.

Silver Platter rushed at the mysterious winged Colt with an almost unmatched ferocity. The grounded flier watched with a very passive expression while he was closed in on by the pompous little pony. It was very amusing to him that he had such influence over his little foal foe. When Silver Platter was within four feet, the silver flier suddenly sprang to the side while kicking the ball with his hooves. The dodge had sent Silver Platter skidding to a halt that nearly sent him forward onto his face. As the Pegasus ran with the ball, Silver Platter ordered his friends to chase after him. Try as they might, they could never gain the upper hand. The Pegasus would feint them at every attempt, or use his shoulders and flanks to bash his aggressors away. During his final stretch he found his path barred by all three of his opponents. Any other pony might have tried to dodge them, but not this little Pegasus foal. He gave the ball a high kick so that it would soar well over their heads and safely into his own territory. While they were distracted watching the ball pass over them, the Pegasus caught them with their guard down and the footing faltered. A loud thunderous crash of flesh on flesh sounded in the park as a great dust cloud blocked view of the collision. Several little foals let out sounds of despair as they imagined the horrible mound of mangled ponies.

Melody was the only pony brave enough to walk closer to the cloud of dust as it fell back to the ground slowly. She was worried about her savior much more than whether or not her ball was returned. No pony else stood up to the bullies who had tormented her. No pony else had even come to her aid before. No pony else had meant so much to her before then. Once the dust finally settled she finally caught sight of a single colt standing on top of a small mound of unconscious bodies. At first Melody was dismayed to see no wings on his back. But then the dust settled further and she caught sight of flaming red hair, with yellow and orange layers, and finally the blue of the roots. It was her hero standing triumphantly on the top of a pony pile of bullies. Balanced on his right hoof was her ball in perfect condition.

"Who... who are you?" Melody asked timidly as a slight blush formed on her equine cheeks.

"My name is Fierce Charge." Fi said and once the dust had settled completely his thrusting spear cutie mark was clearly visible on his flanks.

~Present Day~

"And that's how I got my cutie mark." Fi finished as he recalled the memory fondly.

"Then what is your special talent mister Fierce Charge sir?" One timid filly near the center of the class asked.

"I have a talent for protecting others. My willpower over powers my fears and doubts so that when I am called upon to protect, I do so without fail." Fi replied trying to sound modest, but failing horribly; he was proud of his talent.

"That sounds like a useless talent to me. How can any pony earn bits with a talent like that?" Diamond Tiara asked spitefully.

"Well, I seem to recall being promoted to Captain recently." Fi said with pride and perhaps a little disdain toward the mouthy foal.

That effectively silenced her for the time being, but the rest of the class took his comment and ran with it. Questions were posed as to the duties of a guard captain, their mannerisms in certain public situations, places they were allowed to go that were normally barred to all but royalty, and a plethora of other small things. Fi was happy to answer what he could, though he had difficulty keeping up with the eager little foals. The Crusaders were beaming; their show and tell project was sure to earn them all high marks. Fi assumed that they each eagerly awaited the appearance of show and tell based cutie marks to appear, but he hoped they wouldn't be too disappointed because he knew better than that. Each of them would have a long road ahead if this was the kind of thing they hoped would earn them cutie marks.

Fi respectfully excused himself from the remainder of the school day, much to the dismay of Cheerilee and her herd of curious little students. He made for the tower at a gallop when he had checked the time. He would be late for the arrival of the train transporting his regiment and their supplies if he didn't put extra effort into his run. The distant cry of a train whistle gave him cause to curse the pony deities above. Soon enough the tower came into view and he was relieved to see the train had only just reached the platform. A hop, skip, and jump later he was standing on the platform panting heavily with his wings folded at his sides to rest them. The train finally stopped softly to avoid jerking and he could see the running team exiting the engine to perform small maintenance while the passengers and cargo were unloaded.

The train had two passenger cars and three cargo cars. Fi had been told to expect six guardsponies, and supplies for many more that would come as soon as the current academy class graduated come spring of the next year. Needless to say, Fi was feeling very anxious about his new command. It was all well and good to go about celebrating and announcing things, but to actually fulfill those promises was an entirely different endeavor. Under his new command he would be given three privates, one corporal, one sergeant, and a lieutenant. Such a small group to protect all of Equestria seemed lax, but he understood that establishing an entire legion for him would have not only been impossible, but also foolhardy. He would have to prove that he could handle the problems of a few before he would be given the problems of the many to bear. With a soft shuffling, the doors of the passenger cars opened and six multi-colored ponies strode out into the sunlight. Fi was stunned when he saw the last pony to exit the rear car.

This pony was a mare with the finest red coat he'd ever seen. The glare of the sun gave it a sheen that put most he had seen to shame. Her mane, a much deeper shade of red than her coat, was braided around her head on each side to form a crown of thick shining hair. Where the braids combined in the back they were tied and the rest of her mane flowed down her neck like a river of silk. When she looked his way she wore a very soft smile, and her forest green eyes bore into his own as he suddenly recognized her. As she turned to adjust her saddle bags he noticed that on her flank she wore a cutie mark shaped like a flag with a spear for a pole and a musical note printed on the flag itself. She had grown and developed well, but it was clearly the little filly he had once saved: Melody.

"Is your name Melody?" Fi asked cautiously as he walked to meet her where she stood.

"Yes sir, Captain Fierce Charge. It's been quite a while since we've seen each other." Melody replied while smiling. Her voice was not the same whiny voice he remembered, but a completely new voice that sounded like soft notes of music drifting through the air.

"So you became a guard... what are the odds?" Fi said jokingly as he too smiled now that he was sure of whom she was.

Melody finished adjusting her pack while she spoke with him, "Very high actually. My family has a long tradition of placing first born foals into the service of the throne. I was a special case because I was the only foal of my parents; otherwise it is usually the first born male. It was my choice to take up the responsibility."

"You chose to?" Fi asked curiously.

"I don't think now is the time for this Captain. As your lieutenant I must advise that you have the ponies unload the train, and then report to the barracks for roll call." Melody said respectfully.

Fi nodded his approval before he faced the rest of the ponies now under his command, "Alright you ponies, get the lead out of your saddle bags and unload our supplies double time. The running team doesn't have all afternoon to sit here waiting for your lollygagging."

As ordered, the remaining five ponies immediately got to work unloading the train's three cargo cars. Fi watched them with pride as his strong guards easily moved heavy crates off the train and onto the platform. He recognized writing on some of the crates signifying fragile cargo, which side would need to remain facing up, and some had cutie marks matching some of his ponies' marks; those obviously held collections of personal belongings. Melody oversaw the entire operation with ease; her organization skills would surely rival Twilight's if Fi was any judge. The crates of supplies were taken into the tower and stored into the armory and general goods store rooms, while the personal belongings were taken by individual ponies to the barracks. Soon enough Fi was left standing alone while Melody checked the cargo cars of the train for any loose crates left unloaded. When she was sure that everything had been removed she gave the running team the signal to pull off. Fi watched the five car train pull away slowly and disappear around a distant curve.

"I'm glad that this day has finally come, but even more so that this particular part of the day is over. Seems the ponies under my command have enough respect for me to take orders, though I doubt everything will be so easy." Fi admitted to Melody once she had rejoined him on the platform beside her belongings.

"You would be surprised by how much respect your name carries back in Canterlot. Your Captain's exam wasn't a private event. The guards had been informed that if they wished to watch they were more than welcome. Half the guard turned up to see the show. There were even some placing bets on the outcome. I won a hefty bag of bits thanks to you, Captain." Melody replied with a satisfied grin spread across her lips.

Fi's brow lifted in slight surprise, but soon he erupted in hearty laughter and was soon joined by Melody. Together they moved her things into the tower and then the barracks. The door to the barracks was large enough to accommodate two ponies walking side by side. The barracks were designed with twenty one rooms on two separate floors. Eleven of the rooms were located on the first floor. The Lieutenant's Quarters were located conveniently near the front of the barracks, to the right of the doors. The other ten rooms were down a long hallway that ended in two sets of stairs that lead to the upper tier. Upstairs were the remaining ten rooms that each had reinforced ceilings to accommodate the stretch of roof that had been set up as a small runway of sorts for fliers. If all was put together properly there would be no sound of hooves clopping on the roof disturbing the sleeping guards underneath. All the rooms of the barracks had been equipped with space enough for two ponies to room together, except the Lieutenant's Quarters.

When Fi brought the large crate of Melody's belongings into the LQ he noticed that, while not as grand as his own quarters, Melody would have space to stretch regardless of how much she brought with her. The bed was large and comfortable looking, albeit having no sheets or covers yet. She had a set of two windows built into the outer wall that both had a very grand view of the train platform, the distant fields and also the forest to the west. She had a desk much like the one located in his room, but hers was not as well equipped. A table was located in the corner out of the way, along with a water pitcher and two mugs set in the center. Melody walked to the center of the room and slowly scanned her surroundings while spinning on the spot. When she had finished her analysis she gave a satisfied nod and smiled rather warmly.

"This will do I think. I am glad I have so much room for customization. It will take hours to get everything just right, but by tomorrow this will be an entirely different place." Melody said with pride, but Fi found her statement a little disturbing, just a little.

"So now will you explain what you meant before when you said you chose to take up the responsibility of continuing your family tradition?" Fi asked cautiously in case it turned out to be something of a more sensitive nature that he was inquiring.

"What is there to tell? No stallions had been borne of my sire, so I decided to honor the family tradition and take up arms for the princesses." Melody replied casually while she trotted over to her crate and set to prying it open.

"So there really isn't anything more to the story? You were simply acting out of respect for your family?" Fi asked while continuing his careful wording and soft tone.

To his surprise Melody stopped working on the crate and suddenly grew very sober and serious. Her face fell from the cheery expression she wore to a much calmer and solemn grimace, "I suppose there isn't going to be any giving up for you, is there?"

"What kind of Captain would I be if I gave in to my own guards? You can talk to me about anything, especially the personal things. Is there more to this career choice than you are admitting to me?" Fi asked once more now that he had gained some ground.

"There's you..." Melody finally said in a soft, shaking voice.

"What about me?" Fi inquired while suddenly feeling wary of his over curious nature.

"You remembered me, didn't you? You remembered that day in the park when we were foals? I was weak and foolish. I had failed miserably trying to get back a stupid ball from those stupid Earth foals. It was such a stupid thing to cry over, my sire would have bought me a new ball if I wanted. It was just... the principle of the thing. I had something taken from me and there wasn't a darned thing I could do about it. Then you came to my rescue." Melody said while looking at Fi and into his eyes with her deep pools of black and forest green.

"It was nothing really..." Fi began while feeling very uncomfortable; he had never been one to take praise very well.

"It was everything to me. None of the other Pegasi came to help me. I was alone against three foals that were bigger, faster, and meaner than I was. Just when I thought I would have to leave with my pride in ruins you stepped up. I had never seen a foal cooler than you in my little life. Your blazing mane whipping through the air, your tail so soft and glowing, and your eyes burning with passion... it was very heroic." Melody said with a passion of her own coming out in her tone of voice.

"I wasn't all that heroic..." Fi added while trying his best to remain humble in the whirlwind of praise and admiration coming from the mare opposite him.

"When you got me my ball back I knew that even if it took me my whole life I would find you and repay you. I idolized you and the spirit you had in you. When my sire told me that he could pull strings and get me into the academy I was a little skeptical. Then I heard a few of the names in the graduating class being mentioned during a dinner party. Fierce Charge was one of those names. That was like a sign from above. I had to become a guard and join you. I had to be with you." Melody said while walking toward Fi with every pause she took until the two of them were nearly touching noses.

Fi could feel her breaths brush across his face gently and he took in the faint scent of daisies. He felt very unlucky. It seemed that no matter where he went he was faced with very forward mares, but none of them had been forthright with their desires until now. Melody had said the words. She wanted to be with him. Whether she meant them in a casual or intimate fashion was as of yet a mystery, but the look in her eye gave hints toward the latter. What would he do with himself if they all started being more aggressive? He couldn't very well hide from the world with the kind of responsibilities he had, but the idea was growing in appeal.

"I was... honored to help get your ball back from those thugs back then. I saw the injustice of it and acted from the heart. I didn't act to impress or inspire admiration. I am happy that you found such an act so heartening, and I want you to know that I will continue to ensure the safety of you, your friends, your family, and every pony else out there, no matter what. And I want you to be right there by my side facing the dangers with me, and any pony else who will stand with us. Will you do this for me Lieutenant?"

Melody looked upon Fi with even more passion and for a fleeting moment Fi thought he saw her lips twitch as if she would kiss him, but they merely formed a warm smile before she spoke, "I, Battle Melody, a proud and noble pony of Equestria, swear to defend the ponies of our home, no matter the cost. I will be a beacon that lights the way to a safer tomorrow. In darkest night, I shall bring forth the light, and seek out evil of all forms. My life, my blood, my heart... all this I sacrifice to you, Captain Fierce Charge. In the name of Equestria, I am your Imperial Guard Lieutenant."

Fi listened to her speak the oath in her own form and felt a pang of affection in his heart. It might not have been the official oath, but it was one he took just as seriously. He knew from the way she spoke, the way she looked upon him, that he would never find a more loyal companion to stand by his side in the coming years of struggle against whatever wicked came their way. Battle Melody... her family name held with it an air of strength and honor that he knew well enough because he had studied under a stallion of her family: Battle Rage. He wouldn't ask her any more personal questions until they grew to know each other better, but he was eager to know more about the Battle family name. He had a feeling her resolve to stand by his side would be tested soon enough, but until then he was relieved he could fully trust at least one of his guards.

"That was beautiful Melody; I am honored to receive such an elegant oath. I will remember this moment for the rest of my life, be it a few months or many years." Fi admitted to her while he smiled warmly.

"Aw, it was nothing; I just changed up the oath you created the day you were sworn in." Melody replied while shuffling her front hooves a bit out of embarrassment.

Fi was about to reply when a firm set of knocks startled the pair of them. It sounded urgent enough to warrant an immediate answer, but when Fi opened the door he was confused when no pony was standing to greet him.

"Ahem, down here..."

Fi looked down and realized how stupid he had been to not realize the knocks had come from near the floor. Spike, the purple and green dragon assistant of Twilight, was standing there looking a little annoyed. His size was probably a touchy subject, but he doubted the baby dragon would ever admit it. Fi gave his acquaintance a welcoming smile which Spike grudgingly gave in to and returned.

"Sorry about not noticing you at first Spike. What can I do for you?" Fi asked while tilting his head slightly as he peered down at him.

"It's ok Fi, no harm done, but anyway, look!" Spike exclaimed while holding up a scroll addressed to Fi of all ponies, "The princess sent this through me so that it would get here quicker. I kind of... burp up letters with the help of magic."

"I see, thank you for delivering this to me yourself. I am surprised Twilight didn't see it here, she seems eager for any reason to visit me." Fi said sarcastically.

"Well she was busy with her books so I snuck out so that we could avoid that situation, plus it gives me a reason to drop by Carousel Boutique..." Spike said while drifting off into a world of his own for a moment.

Fi chuckled lightly before setting the scroll down and breaking the wax seal with his teeth. With the awful taste of wax on his lips he eagerly unrolled the parchment with his hooves and held it down to read.

Dear Fi,

_ _

_ I am writing to you personally to let you know that I will be dropping by briefly on my way to Fillydelphia. I wish to speak with you and Spike in private when I arrive. Yes, spike must attend, so do not allow him to wander off until we have had a chance to speak. I am glad to hear that the ponies and supplies arrived safely. I am looking forward to seeing you and Spike when I fly in._

_ _

Princess Celestia, Royal Princess of Equestria

_ _

"Spike, you might want to give this a read before you go see Rarity." Fi said while looking up at the still dazed baby dragon.

"Huh? Rarity? I wasn't going to visit her!" Spike said defensively.

"Regardless of whether or not you wanted to visit her, please look at this letter." Fi said rather impatiently.

Spike hesitantly looked the letter over and when he had finished reading his eyes were large enough to pass for crystal balls, "Why would the princess want to talk to me?"

"What's going on sir?" Melody asked while walking over to join Fi and Spike.

"Apparently Princess Celestia has found time in her busy schedule to visit us here at the tower and she wishes to have a word with me and Spike in private. It's been too short a time for me to have made a mistake, and Spike is no trouble maker, so this must be either very important or very unusual. Nothing in Equestria can mimic the powerful magic of Celestia, but just in case I want the ponies on low alert incase of trouble. Get them their gear and keep them on this floor. Even if there isn't trouble this meeting is meant to be private."

"Of course Captain, we'll be ready for anything." Melody said proudly before dashing off to ready the ponies.

"What should I do Fi?" Spike asked.

"Follow me. If she is coming here then she will no doubt arrive by air on the north balcony of the top floor." Fi replied before walking off out of Melody's quarters and into the barracks hall.

Fierce Charge glanced sideways down the hall and saw Melody issuing orders to the guards. He knew they would be well prepared so he quickly made his way to the tower entrance hall with Spike following in tow. Knowing the ascent would be hard on the short legged dragon, Fi saw the little lizard onto his back before climbing the tower stairs. Up and up the two of them spiraled until they were at the top floor. A warm breeze smelling faintly of lavender drifted through the hall from the open arches of the balconies. The warmth of the afternoon sun was comfortable on Fi's coat as he stood waiting patiently on the northern balcony. Spike had found the portion of Fi's back between his wings to be very comfortable and he soon fell into a light sleep. Fi could hear the little dragon babble on about this and that, but occasionally his dreams would drift to Rarity. How the little scaled thing figured a relationship with a full grown mare pony would work out, he had no clue.

A short while passed with uneventful silence, save for the occasional bird song drifting up from the trees down below. He had decided to head inside and wait in his room when he finally spotted three dots in the distant skyline. After a few minutes they took shape into two golden armored stallions on either side of a beautiful Alicorn mare. Her pastel rainbow mane and tail flipped and tossed in the wind battering her and her guards like silk flying in the breeze. He had to admit it, regardless of his favor for the night princess, that Celestia was a princess of almost unmatched beauty. It was no wonder at all why so many ponies saw her as more of a deity than a monarch. It took them no more than ten minutes to finally reach the tower. The guards landed first to secure the balcony for their princess. Each of them gave Fi a respectful salute before positioning themselves on either side of the arch. Seeing that the way was clear and safe, Celestia flew down and landed with all the grace and beauty a monarch ought to carry.

Fi knelt respectfully with his head bowed in respect to his honorable guest, "Princess Celestia, it's a pleasure to see you again after the unfortunate attack on the party last evening. I am sure you got a proper report from Twilight and her friends?"

"Oh Fi, when will you learn that you don't have to be so formal when no pony is watching?" Celestia replied with a rather amused smile.

"I am afraid it will take years, princess. Maybe decades. It's still a pleasure to see you again, and to see you safe. I was worried that the teleportation spell might have taken a heavy toll on you."

"I won't lie, my hoofmaids had to reapply certain dyes, and I had to take a rather heavy nap, but I recovered quickly enough. My sister was less fortunate. Her worrying gave her a small panic attack that had to be seen to by some of our medical staff. She is perfectly fine of course; I don't need you running off to Canterlot." Celestia admitted with less amusement in her voice due to the humor being at her own expense.

"If all is well then I am confused about why you would be visiting me here. Let's move to my quarters where we can talk in private, as your letter requested."

Fi lead the way into his room taking soft steps so that Spike wouldn't be jostled too much. Once inside he watched the princess lock the door with a touch of her magic before she let out a sigh of relief. Fi continued to follow her with his eyes as she walked around to one of his new couches. With a heave she fell upon the couch to lie down on her tummy. Fi nearly chuckled as he witnessed her natural behavior once again. For such an elegant pony that held such regal bearing in public, it was rather amusing seeing her act like an average pony. Fi walked around and set Spike down gently on the cushion of the opposite couch. He then curled up on the other end of that same couch and faced the princess.

"So, I am willing to bet all my bits that you didn't come here to exchange pleasantries. Forgive my eagerness, but I would like to get business out of the way so we can all rest easier." Fi said with respect, but with a yearning tone.

"I whole heartedly agree Fi, let's get right to business. Please wake our little friend there." Celestia said while she lifted her head up high to overlook the room.

Fi gave Spike a small, gentle shove with his hoof. The sudden disturbance roused the dragon from his sleep rather rudely, but when he saw the princess he immediately threw away any desire to protest.

"Due to the overwhelming mail I already have sent to me by Twilight and her friends on the importance of friendship, Spike here is overworked, even if he is too proud to admit it." Celestia said with a soft smile for the dragon.

"I can handle it, honest. I can..." Spike began but he was silence when Celestia cut him off.

"You see? Anyway, it would be unreasonable to ask him to do any more with all the work he is already responsible for. With that in mind, I have brought you a gift." Celestia said and ended by using a small teleportation spell to summon forth a bright ball of light that threatened to blind Fi and Spike. When the light vanished it was replaced by an egg one size smaller than Spike.

"That's a dragon egg!" Spike said excitedly as he stood up on his seat.

Fi looked the egg over curiously. It was shaped like your average chicken egg, if the chicken was the size of Princess Celestia. The surface of the egg sported swirling stripes of black painted on a white background. The texture appeared to be very rigid, with patterns that were almost scale like. He'd never seen anything so interesting in his life. As they sat watching the egg it jerked to the side as if something or someone inside had shifted its weight. Fi tilted his head to the side as he looked at the egg, but made no move from his place on the couch. Spike on the other hand leapt down from the cushion and was next to the egg in seconds.

"Who is inside?" Spike asked eagerly.

"Her name is to be Hazuki. She was sent as a gift from foreign ponies living in a place they call the Far East. They have experience with dragons that is legendary. Until now she has been kept safe for the day she would be given to a chosen pony. I had no idea who the chosen pony would be, but then it dawned on me that they had meant for me to choose a pony to give her to. I felt rather silly when I came to that realization, but what can we do eh?" Celestia said casually while smiling warmly.

"I'm honored. When will she hatch from her shell?" Fi asked.

"When you touch the egg with your muzzle she'll... what was it they called it... imprint on you. You'll be partners in a way. It is spiritually a much stronger bond than friendship, but it may not be pleasant. She won't hatch and magically like you... or maybe she will. If not then your partnership will be business only, but it will be a partnership of undying loyalty nonetheless." Celestia replied sounding wary.

"So there is a chance, fifty-fifty, that I may end up with a dragon assistant that will do what I need her to do, but hate my ever living guts with a fiery passion that out burns the light of the sun?" Fi asked while trying to sound casual, even though his gut had just turned like curdled milk.

"More or less, but the pros outweigh the cons. I will still need you to be able to report to me regularly, and I cannot bring myself to allow Spike to burden himself further. So unfortunately we can do this the easy way, or I can make things much more serious." Celestia said with a smile, but Fi and Spike could almost see a dark aura forming behind her.

Fierce Charge recognized the threatening nature of the princess because he had seen it many times when she was dealing with her sister. He knew he had to do as he had been told, unless he wanted to feel the might of her magic. With a wary glance at Spike he stood up from his seat and approached the ominous white egg with its creeping black stripes. The sweat beaded on Fi's scalp as he moved the tip of his snout closer and closer to the egg. Finally he felt the smooth, surprisingly warm surface of the egg caress his nose and then his cheek. For a fleeting moment he suspected that perhaps Celestia had been wrong and there was a predestined pony somewhere else that was better suited for the egg. Then it happened.

A small crack ran across the scaly surface of the egg starting near the upper half of the egg and stretching down the side closest to Spike. A fragment no larger than a bit burst from the egg and flew onto the middle cushion of the couch Fi had just been sitting on. Another piece flew off, and then another, and finally the top sprang up from the remainder of the egg and acted as an odd sort of hat for the baby within. A soft coo escaped the egg before the top fragment lifted to reveal the small, feline like face of the baby dragon within. Much like the egg itself, the baby sported white scales with stripes of black around her back and cheeks, and white fur that grew thickly atop her head and ran down the length of her spine and tail. Protruding out of the head fluff were two angular ears reminiscent of cat's ears that matched perfectly with her very feline facial features. When Fi looked into her eyes he saw the most beautiful shade of blue. Her chubby little newborn face and body were unquestionably adorable, but when she let out a seemingly innocent coo her incredibly sharp fangs were easily visible.

"She's so cute!" Spike exclaimed as he helped remove the top shell fragment from the newborn's head.

"I'm glad you are so accepting of the new comer. I suppose that you learned your lesson when Twilight adopted her pet owl?" Celestia said mockingly as she smiled her usual warm smile, minus the dark aura.

"Yeah, just because I am not the only one, doesn't mean I am being replaced. Besides, now I'm not the youngest dragon around anymore. Isn't that right Hazuki?" Spike asked the baby as he allowed her to play with his tail, which he regretted only slightly when she clamped her teeth down on the pointed tip.

"How long will it take her to grow to a more suitable size? She is perfectly adorable, but at her current size and development it could take months for her to be a suitable assistant." Fi pointed out while trying not to offend Spike by insinuating that the little one was useless.

Spike was the first to reply to this question, "Dragons grow slowly, especially when they aren't among their own kind, like me. But, we can speed up her growth if we give her a small horde of gems to lie in. She could be my size in a matter of hours if we have a good sized horde."

"I think I can help with that. I remembered something about this from the letter I received from you Spike. Remember your first birthday in Ponyville?" Celestia said with a coy grin.

Spike blushed rather badly as he remembered the unfortunate accident that day, "Yes I remember heh... that's where I got my information from too."

Celestia lifted her head lazily before her long, elegant horn began to glow brightly. In a flash of nearly blinding light a glowing pile of gems appeared out of thin air. It floated gracefully in the air above the coffee table before lowering around the new baby slowly. Once most of the gems had settled down on the table Spike got to work shifting them into a more nest like shape. Once the makeshift nest was completed he gently lifted Hazuki from what was left of her shell and moved her into the gemstone bed. Hazuki cooed during her trip to the gem pile, pawing at the purple dragon handling her with her tiny little claws. Spike giggled at how cute he thought she was behaving before he set her into her new, temporary bed. It took a few seconds for Hazuki to get comfortable, but something about the lumpy stones calmed her and made her rather drowsy. Fi pictured her fully grown sleeping in a tremendous pile of gems and gold. It was both incredibly awesome, and entirely frightening.

As Hazuki slowly fell into a deep, peaceful sleep, Celestia remembered something, "Oh yes, I nearly forgot about something Luna wanted to give to Hazuki if she hatched for you Fi."

Celestia lowered her horn this time and the glow was much less potent on her horn, and when the spell ceased little Hazuki was wearing a brow band made of braided silver chain. The chain encompassed her head and was mostly hidden beneath her thick white fur, but what could be seen of it met on her forehead at a small jewel. The jewel was cut into the shape of a crescent moon and had to be made of pure diamond. It was such an impressive gem, Spike nearly drowned in his own drool as he eyed it. Celestia smiled softly as she glanced from Spike to Fi.

"Luna thought that she would give her own personal blessing to you and Hazuki. It's enchanted so that it can't be eaten, though I doubt anyone in this room would ever think to eat something so precious..." Celestia said while returning her gaze to Spike who now looked as if he'd been chastised.

"I wish that she had come to give it to us in person, but I understand that this is her time for rest. Besides, she and I have been having a lot of trouble communicating properly lately." Fi admitted while his gaze drifted to the floor where his front hooves shuffled uncomfortably.

"I am not one to butt my nose in where it doesn't belong, but Luna wanted very much to come, however she thought better of it for the same reason you assume she didn't want to come. You both are so young... it's amusing to watch." Celestia said with a soft chuckle.