The Prophecy

— You might think that's reasonable, Star, — I took a deep breath and shook my head, — But it hardly seems acceptable to me. — And you try it! — the stallion smiled, looking up at me, — The Captain must at least partially agree to this. — Okay, but don't say later that I didn't warn you. With this not very confident conversation, another morning in the barracks began. It has been three days since Shining Armor returned to the palace. He took over the management of the guard, and soon everything in the company went according to plan. Getting up, breakfast, training, hoof-to-hoof combat training... then lunch, more training, dinner. A few hours for personal matters and sleep. At night, I studied geography and Equestrian writing under the strict guidance of Luna, and, frankly, if it weren't for her, I would already be starting to go crazy in these four walls. So at least some variety, because in the guard everything was like in the army — the same thing. It's like groundhog day. And it is unknown when the changes in my life will come. By the way, about training in hoof-to-hoof combat… It has recently begun to dawn on me that local ponies have more flexible leg joints than horses from Earth. That is why they can make movements that, from the point of view of a being who knows only horses in earthly realities, looked on the verge of fantasy — just putting a hoof to the head is worth it. And what a master did in this kind of martial art! It made me wonder more and more. I would never have believed that an ordinary earth pony, standing on one front leg, would be able to catch an iron bucket thrown up by him, then abruptly bring it down to the ground, crushing it into an iron pancake. Ordinary horses would be able to repeat this except in fairy tales. And here… Apparently, the anatomy of ponies is noticeably different from standard horses, although they looked very similar. This has fueled my interest in studying the structure of their bodies. I wanted to finally understand the limits of my new body's capabilities. However, today I decided to «broaden my horizons» by going outside to see the city. Unfortunately, I was still being held in the barracks and not allowed anywhere except to the library. I hoped Shining Armor would be able to understand me by giving me permission. Star, as my new friend and companion, served as my moral support in this matter. Having thought everything over and decided everything during breakfast, I headed in the direction of Shining's office. My mood was high, and my intuition told me that everything would be fine. However, I hadn't gone ten steps when I heard a familiar shout ahead. «It seems that this is the same lieutenant», — I snorted with annoyance. I didn't want to meet the screaming deputy commander, but today, it seems, fate itself ordered us to meet. The next second, he appeared around the bend, meeting me right in the chest with his muzzle. And judging by his appearance, he was in a disgusting mood. — Get out of the way! — He shouted at me, casually pushing me on my left front leg. I had a sudden urge to kick him with my hind legs so that the bones would crack, but I restrained my anger. However, I wasn't going to just leave him, so I told him back: — Well, how is it? Did you pump a lot, acolyte? Watch where you're going! He stopped abruptly and squinted at me. — You think that if you're not a military man, you can ignore me, right? — He said with growing displeasure. He almost nuzzled my chest, lifting his gaze to my muzzle. But after a second, he was a little taken aback and took a step back. Apparently, he was afraid of my size. «That's how it always is. When you have a real big guy standing in front of you, capable of breaking your skull with one blow, it becomes far from funny» — Did you want something? — I took a dramatic pause and slightly lowered my head in the direction of the muzzle of the interlocutor, — Why are you silent, soldier? I chuckled. This «lieutenant» looked so small and helpless compared to me that I even wondered how he still had the audacity to talk to me in such tones. He swallowed, obviously gathering his strength and shaking his head, replied: — Who else are you? It came from I don't understand where… I raised an «eyebrow» in surprise. It was even surprising that this pegasus did not even bother to familiarize himself with the new addition to the barracks. He didn't give a damn about his subordinates that much. — I've been here for more than two weeks, and you still don't know who I am? — I was genuinely amazed, shaking my head and taking a step towards the officer. — It doesn't matter… Do you even know who I am, a foreigner?! — The lieutenant abruptly switched to a hysterical tone. Apparently, he was running out of methods to counter me, and he was starting to panic. I just grunted in response. — Should I? — I am the son of Silver von Moody, — He stood up in a proud pose, — The most influential of the counts of Equestria! And you, you horned nobody, will be in trouble if you dare to touch me! — I'm not a citizen of Equestria, and I'm not your subordinate. I don't think your orders and titles apply to me. — Exactly! You're, — The stallion poked me in the chest with his hoof, — Not even a citizen! And the laws won't protect you if something happens to you. So look around and be careful… In case some kind of accident happens to you. With these words, the lieutenant snorted and, turning around, went about his business. I watched him go with a slightly indignant look. «Quickly deflated. And how puffed up he was, how he made an important person out of himself. The king of the palace, the king of the palace! Ugh… But I realized that he would try to do something to me». I mentally spat. It was an unpleasant conversation, but I did well in it. He did not show his real emotions and was able to knock the arrogance off this lieutenant. Of course, not in the way I would like, but it's still better than just putting up with his abuse. And Dark Star nudged me gently in the side, distracting me from my thoughts: — We were going to our captain's office, right? Maybe we should go to him already? — And then he added in a half-whisper, — You're great at it! I've never seen Blade so scared. I winked back at him and then nodded, walking with him down the hall. When I reached Shining's office, I knocked on the door with my hoof and, waiting for his permission to enter, put my hoof to the «handle», opening the door. — May I apply? — I asked, walking inside with Dark and slamming the door behind me. Shining Armor sat and, as always, dealt with bureaucratic issues. When he saw the visitors, he slowly looked up from his papers and looked at us. — Permission granted. — I ask you to give me permission to expand the territory of my permitted visits outside the barracks, — I went straight to the point, addressing him according to all the rules of army etiquette. The captain remained motionless and silent. He seemed a little surprised by my question, although he didn't show it. — And what is the purpose? — Finally, the stallion broke the silence and sighed softly. — I want to see the city from afar and get some fresh air, — I answered honestly. «Indeed, why else would I go outside the barracks?» There was a lingering silence again, interrupted only by the noise from the parade ground. The captain thought for about a minute, then exhaled sharply, and looked at the portrait of Celestia. — Permission granted, — He pronounced the verdict. I even felt a little relieved by this answer. I believed that he would meet me halfway, and my intuition did not let me down. Did it all work out? — But, — Armor suddenly raised a hoof up, adding, — Only under the supervision of at least one guardsman. The joy was immediately replaced by a little sadness. «Damn it! Even here, I'll be in control. But the other thing is, it's not that bad, is it? They already allow me some freedom of action, and, in theory, I should be happy... Well, okay. Not bad for a start» Suddenly, I felt that something unpleasant might happen ahead. «But why don't I have a very good feeling about this?» — I understand, — I replied with a little sigh. — I know what you're thinking, but it's not about restrictions, — The captain interrupted me, — I've known the people I'm supposed to protect for a long time and I know the dragons. The people in the country are not scared, so if it turns out who you are, then panic is possible. Nobody wants that. Do you understand? — I understand, — I said again. — In that case, I will assign you an escort, but not earlier than after lunch. Now go on. I have to work. With these words, the stallion turned back to the documents, paying no attention to us. I nodded and left the office with the Star, closing the door behind me, slamming it shut. So it's decided. I could only hope that nothing would happen to me during this time, which would attract unnecessary attention. — Star. Thank you, — I whispered to my companion, showing gratitude for the moral support. He smiled at me and twitched his ears, as if telling me «Nonsense! You’d do the same for me!»

***

— Stevrian, — Green called out to me during the lunch break, — A surprise from the crown! — What? — I muttered with my mouth full, as the next moment a large plate with an impressive piece of fried meat appeared on the table in front of me. I choked on such a sight, and the fresh and pleasant aroma seemed to take me out of reality, making me remember the last time I ate fresh meat. Probably at home, on Earth still. «That's exactly what I was missing, so it was something meat!» I was so engrossed in my thoughts and contemplation of a piece of meat that I barely noticed how the cook began to poke me in the shoulder. — Hey! — Sergeant Green shouted irritably, — I've been trying to shout for a minute now. Is anyone at home or has the dragon flown into the sky? I came to myself, roused up, and looked around. I noticed how the expressions of the faces of the stallions around me twisted in disgust, and some snorted at the smell of meat, turning away. «Yeah… After all, it was still terribly unusual for me to see such a reaction from others, although, it would seem, I should have gotten used to it by now. It's delicious!» — Yes, thank you, — I finally replied to Green, pushing the plate towards me. — A gift from the crown, — He grinned, — In one copy. So eat up, because while I was cooking, I almost threw my breakfast out. And how people like you only eat meat, I do not know. Green shook his head. — But food is food, which means it needs to be cooked, which I did, — The stallion feigned a strained smile, which made me feel a little uneasy, — Bon appetit. With these words, he lowered his head and, after giving me a fleeting glance, walked away from the table. «Green is a little out of his mind, it seems. But thanks for that too! It's been a long time since I've eaten good meat... It's just a pity that others don't share my attitude. Vegans, what to take from them. Griffins would understand me — they love meat», — I thought dreamily, biting into a fresh piece of fried flesh, swallowing it without even chewing. «By the way, since this is the case, who is this meat from? As far as I remember, ponies don't raise animals for butcher's slaughter. I hope this is not clear. Because otherwise, I can hardly imagine the reaction of the surrounding guards if it turns out that this is her». And while I was having a snack, I picked up my ears and decided to do my favorite thing: eavesdropping on conversations. Fortunately, good hearing, preserved from the dragon form, contributed to this. — What have you heard about the cultists of the Moon? — I caught a quiet question from one of the stallions, who was sitting near the very edge of the table and talking with a colleague in the next seat. — You can't touch them at all, — I heard a sigh from the second, — As if they were not some kind of sect, but a simple interest club. But I don't trust them. «So. But this is interesting. I haven't heard anything about the Moon cultists, but I dare say they are fans who consider her not a monster, but sincerely on her side. It's amazing how the Celestine Church manages to mess with the rest of the brains,» — I thought with a bit of sadness, — «Maybe my conclusions are premature, but everything is leaning towards this.» But for now, I just listened on, not getting into the conversation. — Princess Luna has only recently arrived, — The owner of the first voice continued the conversation, — Maybe it's worth continuing to hunt them, otherwise… — Is it worth starting at all? We've been keeping them under surveillance for many years, and that's it. There's nothing to worry about. Suddenly, the interlocutors were interrupted by a sharp knock on the table, which made even me jump on the spot in surprise. — No! — Getting up on his hind legs and crushing the table with his hoof, one of the outsider stallions was indignant, abruptly intervening in the conversation. I sighed irritably, and the cook looked at them sternly. — What are you shouting about? — Green was indignant, — If I hear loud conversations in the dining room again, I will report to the captain and I will not feed you for several days! The troublemaker glanced at the rest of the audience with displeasure, but sat back down and snorted. Everyone ate in silence for a while, but a minute later I heard the conversation of these two guards again: — But, won't the fact that she is remembered in a positive way be an impetus for the Moon to light? — Said the one who was inclined to protect the night pony. — No, — His interlocutor cut him off sharply, — The Moon must be imbued with the philosophy and dogmas of the Celestian church, otherwise there is a high probability of the appearance of Nightmare Moon again. — But this is bad, — Indignation was felt in the voice of the second stallion, — Celestia is wise and kind, no doubt, but to impose on her own sister a philosophy completely alien to her… — Look, we’re the few who are privy to the plan, and doubt is not appropriate, — The white stallion's voice sounded so cold, — It will be better for everyone. — Maybe you’re right... I buried my face in an almost empty plate, where there had once been a whole piece of meat, and sighed, not wanting to show my irritation to others. «Holy shit! That sucks. If you think about it, what’s the point of Celestia hammering her sister on dogmas about «peace, friendship, gum»? So Nightmare doesn’t show up again? It looks more like an excuse, but... remembering that look and those words that Celestia said that night, I believe more in the version of sincere concern for Moon. But with these methods? No, that’s out of line. I’ll report it when I see you in my sleep tonight», — I finally decided, — «This should not continue. Otherwise I risk losing, at best, an ally in the night princess, and at worst... I do not want to think about it!» Further conversation between the two Guards faded away, but I heard snatches of conversation at the other end of the table: — What do you think of Sister Celestia? — I don’t know what to think of her, but I feel sorry for her. A thousand years being held captive by the mind of a monster is beyond comprehension. — Yeah, I couldn’t handle it, and she’s over there: last time I saw her, which was a week ago, still holding up pretty good. — I wonder why? Nobody could have done that. — My grandfather said that she was a warrior, — A third voice entered the conversation — She led armies into battle and probably killed many. Isn’t that what makes you stronger? — How do you know that, Lemon? — My grandfather worked in an archive in Celestia’s private library. He’s saying something like that. — You realize this is a serious mystery? — Yes, I understand perfectly, but I don’t say that to anyone, but only to those I trust. — What if we are the same «who»? — Don’t be silly, I know you well, stallions. And there was a restrained giggle at the table. «They are discussing Moon suspiciously a lot. It is as if she is on the headlines of every newspaper today, and her portraits are displayed everywhere. But at least someone doesn’t think badly of Moon, and that’s fine. Maybe I can find here one or two guards who are loyal to the princess? She wants to revive the Moon Guard and she needs recruits», — I was thinking. I liked the idea of gathering a loyal squad around Moon. And her authority will support her, and she will have some political weight in Equestria. Star quietly sat down at my table, holding a plate of herbal soup in telekinesis. I even noticed him only when he addressed me directly: — Well, how is our nothing? — He asked with a smile. — I was allowed to go outside the barracks, but accompanied and no further than the courtyard of the palace, — I replied, shrugging my shoulders. — It could have been worse, of course, but Shining is an understanding stallion and is ready to make some concessions… Like the same Green when you stood up for him. — By the way, how is he? He’s been kind of sad lately, — Distracted, I reminded myself, looking towards the cook — Especially outside working hours. — I’ll tell you something. But that’s the big secret I learned from him, — He gestured me to lean closer to him, and then whispered — I don’t know what the disease is called, but his daughter was born with a lack of oxygen, so the doctors said that she would have developmental problems. I don’t understand, but it seems to have a negative impact on her. «Cerebral palsy? Well fuck, sailed... I did him a favor, called», — Now my mood has disappeared, — «Sergeant Green was one of the few people I really liked in the Day Guard company, and here you are! Problems. That explains why he's out of sorts. Eh... I wish I could help him, but how? Maybe there is a cure for this ailment, or at least something that will mitigate the consequences? I'll have to ask miss White at the first opportunity». — It's terrible, — I said sincerely, when I got away from what I had heard, — That's why he hardly talks to anyone. — Maybe you should talk to him sometime? — Dark suggested, — You, like me, are quite good with him. What he needs is a little support from his friends. — It's not worth it. He needs to be alone for a while, — I recalled some of my acquaintances from earthly life, who often withdrew into themselves at such moments. I have experience in such matters, and I had a rough idea of what to do, so I added: — You still need to keep an eye on him, otherwise the poor guy won't stand it and… I ran my hoof over my chest, making a gesture of death that everyone understood. — It's better to keep quiet, — Dark did not let me speak, shaking his head, — He will find the strength to move on, I'm sure. And they don't joke about death in the army, you know. — Okay. But I'll keep an eye on him. For a while we sat in silence and ate. After this conversation about our cook, I did not return to my old thoughts about the Moon Guard for some time. But when I remembered them, I decided to start from afar: — Can I ask you a question? — Go ahead, — Dark nodded. — What do you think about Princess Luna? Star thought about it and after a while answered: — I don't actually know her, however, like everyone else here. But when she appeared, I felt something, — He paused, looking at the remains of the herbal soup, which he hadn't finished yet, — I can't explain. But, all things considered, I quite like her. I mentally exhaled. — Thank Void, there are sensible ponies here. Tilting my head and making a questioning expression of my muzzle, I added, feigning a little surprise: — What do you want? — Not in that sense, — Star grinned, — You know I'm not interested in mares. — Yes, I know, — I smiled back, — It's just unusual to hear you say that. — As it is. — What if she decides to create her own guard? Dark looked up from his almost empty plate, chuckled, and stared thoughtfully into my eyes for a while: — It would be interesting to see those who join it, — He grinned again. «Yeah, that's the first possible candidate. I had no doubt about him, especially considering his talent for moving around unnoticed. Even I can't hear and see him without prompting, unless he wants to. Although my eyesight and hearing are very good», — I appreciated Dark, — «I think this quality will be fully appreciated in the Moon Guard, and not like in the Daytime, where colleagues dislike such... tricks». Anyway, I made a mental note in my head. But the conversation reached a dead end, and I didn't know how to continue it. So we just ate in silence for a while. — Okay, Stevrian, — Dark finally said, getting up from the table and pointing with his hoof at the exit, — We'll be leaving soon. — Good. Will you be my escort? — I asked, hoping that Shining Armor had assigned Dark as a guard while I was walking around Canterlot. — Alas, no. In theory, the guard should already be waiting for you at the entrance, — He added and headed for the exit. I just sighed softly, watching him go. «Sorry. He would have been good company for me. But maybe that guardsman will be fine too» With these thoughts in mind, I headed out of the barracks, trying not to think about the bad things. After all, they already allow me some freedom of action, which means I shouldn't have grieved. At the exit of the barracks, when I went to the parade ground, as expected, I was met by a guardsman in full uniform, who immediately followed me. I looked at him and realized without words that he was my escort while walking around the courtyard of the palace. I just nodded to the soldier, and together we left the parade ground, heading for the gate, where the guards let us out without any questions. When I went out into the backyard of the palace, I was literally stunned. I had glimpsed the beauty of Canterlot earlier when I was hovering in the sky above it in search of Nightmare Moon, but watching the city in daylight, its appearance exceeded all my expectations and struck me to the core. Colorful houses with several floors and courtyards adjacent to them, white stone streets along which residents of the city leisurely strolled, decorated with statues of Celestia — words cannot convey how beautiful the capital of Equestria is. It's a pity that I can only visit the courtyard of the palace, and not the city itself. — And Canterlot is beautiful, — I sincerely admired, — I didn’t think he’d impress me to the core. — Yes, — The grey-haired stud who had accompanied me nodded affirmatively, taking away the meditation and contemplation of the capital Equestria. «But it has yet to be protected in the future from the attack of Cheynjling. I would not like them to spoil such beauty», — I thought in passing, remembering a prophetic dream on one of the first days of my sojourn in Equestria, as well as that strange date that I could not understand at that time. I was beginning to think it was probably the date that that sad event was going to happen, and you had to be prepared for it. But in the meantime, peering into the distance, I tried to see not only Canterlot, but also the Everwild Forest, as well as Ponyville, which is relatively close to it. However, even with my much improved eyesight, I still couldn't see the town. While walking through the equally beautiful backyard, where there were many different plants and tree specimens from all over Equestria, I managed to get the gray stallion accompanying me to talk a little, who introduced himself as Diamond. He turned out to be a good stallion, with whom you can talk about many topics. Except that he seemed a little simple to me. Apparently, he was a very average representative of the Guard, who does not have a higher education and has little interest in books. Of course, having a diploma from a university or studying in a specialty does not imply a good life experience and the presence of some special status: I myself have not received higher education. But I got a secondary professional education, and that's good. Nevertheless, I felt like I was smarter than everyone else all the time. There is even narcissism inherent in geniuses. But the level of flexibility of the mind is felt regardless of the level of education of the being. But still, it was nice to talk to him. Not like with Celestia, who says one thing, but has something completely different on her mind. We chatted on various topics and just walked around, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the army. It's not every day you go on «layoff», and Diamond seemed glad to be away from the barracks himself. — Have you been working here long? — I asked the stallion during the conversation. — Five years and three more on the border, — Diamond said calmly, taking a deep breath. I was a little worried when I saw his reaction. — What's on the border? — Snow, blizzard and nothing more, — The interlocutor calmly replied and dreamily closed his eyes, — But there are good colleagues there. That's where, and there the relationship is really strong. — They also keep you warm in winter, yeah, — I chuckled, calming down. «So, just nostalgic, not worried. Looks like there was plenty of time before the King Sombra returned» — And that too, — The guardsman nodded affirmatively. We passed by several large trees that looked like nothing else I had seen before on Earth — some kind of mixture of birch, spruce and oak, and climbed even higher: onto a platform that served as an observation deck for stargazing. I decided to go to the very edge, which ended in a steep cliff, and see what kind of view stretched under the castle. Contrary to expectations, I saw not only the strongest beams and artificial stone, but also areas with a small river flowing out of the mountain, which was divided into several in different directions, as well as several plots of land with lakes. At one of these sites, something similar to a fortified shooting position was equipped, which interested me. I walked even closer to the edge of the platform, enclosed by a railing high for ordinary ponies, and, hanging my front legs over the edge, looked ahead, enjoying the fresh air and the wind blowing my mane. It was as if I felt free again, and not a prisoner of Celestia, who is literally under the sword of Damocles, ready to fall on you at any moment. It was for these feelings that I wanted to leave the stuffy barracks. It was wonderful. I wanted to stop here at least for a few minutes, but suddenly I felt someone's close attention. I looked back, but all I saw was Diamond, and there was no outsider on the court. Who was following me? Perhaps it was my fantasy, but I have been convinced since my last life that when I feel someone else's gaze on me, it is not from scratch. It was akin to Spider-Man's spider sense, and it had never deceived me before. It feels like someone is watching me. I didn't like it terribly, so I pulled away from the edge of the platform, catching the questioning look of the guardsman accompanying me. «What was that? I've noticed that paranoia before, but so that… Who was following me? Who?! Celestia? She can quite use magic to observe. Shining Armor is in his barracks, but his protective spell cast on the palace could also be watching me. The guard is almost in full force in the barracks… Cadence? Hardly... who else could?» I involuntarily shivered and retreated once more. I hope that the civilians didn't see me after all, but it seems like today the garden was empty, and no outsiders walked here. — What happened? — Asked the guardsman who approached me. — It's okay, — I told him, trying to collect my thoughts, — Just a panic attack. — Really? — The stallion looked at me worriedly, — Let's take you to the doctor, in case she helps. — No. I'll go myself. Tonight, — I snapped, shaking my head. Of course, I had plans to go to Miss White and clarify something, but that's when I get to the barracks. We decided to move back to the barracks, and on the way we decided to continue our conversation: — Listen, Diamond, — I said to him, — And what do you think of Princess Luna? He looked at me questioningly and thought. — I don't think anything, — the stallion waved off after a short silence, — I don't know her. — It makes sense, — I said, not knowing what else to say. But then a logical question followed: — Why did you ask about her, Stevrian? — It's just that I keep thinking about what happened to her over these thousand years and I feel uneasy, — I decided not to talk about the true reason for the interest in her person. I don't need any extra attention. And mentally noted that he would not be suitable as a night guard. But Diamond was quite satisfied with my answer: — I can understand that. I wouldn't want to be in her place. — No one would want to, — I snorted, frowning, — It's good that she kept her mind at all. «Poor Moon… To spend a thousand years in prison is like an eternity on Earth. If a man in the time of Byzantium and the Crusades went to prison, what would become of his consciousness in a whole millennium? It's scary to imagine. Unsurprisingly, Nightmare Moon got the better of her,» — I thought with a sigh. I was very hurt for her: she showed herself most adequately, and therefore I was very sympathetic to her, not counting Shining and Dark. I would like to do everything for her so that she can adapt to the new world. She was, in fact, my only saving reed in a world of hatred and contempt for outsiders. «Although maybe I'm just too impulsive?» — I asked myself the question, — «Although, what am I asking if I know that the answer is yes? It's a pity that I can't do anything about it.» We turned a corner, and out of the corner of my eye I noticed two guards in armor and weapons on their sides moving towards me, one of whom looked at me intently. I froze in place and frowned, already expecting a trick from him. However, he just grinned and said sarcastically to me as he passed me: — We’re watching you, jerk. It made me feel a little weird. It was like walking past a security guard in Moscow and he would’ve talked for nothing. «They are so bold!» — I swore to myself. However, I didn't say anything to them and just walked on with Diamond, hearing out of the corner of my ear how the second guardsman cursed at the first one behind me, telling him something along the lines of «You'll reveal us like that, idiot!» I smiled and took a closer look at the retreating guards, trying to memorize their appearance and the cutie marks. There was no doubt that they were following me intentionally. «I have already revealed you, lovebirds», — I laughed mentally, — «You can only be sent for death, so you will manage to lose it in the swamps, like Ivan Susanin of the fascists in his time.» Having memorized their special signs, I slipped unnoticed from their gaze and accelerated my way to the barracks, not wanting to linger any longer. The rest of the day passed quite calmly and without any special incidents. In the evening before lights out, as planned, I dropped by the doctor's infirmary, finding her idle at her workplace on time. — Miss White, may I ask you a question? — I actually addressed her at the entrance, stopping in the doorway. — Of course, ask, — The mare smiled, getting up from the table and I got right to the point: — How does Equestria cope with depressive disorder? She blinked in surprise, then lowered her head and was silent for a while, gathering her thoughts. — You mean with a «bad attitude to positivity»? Do you need help? To be honest, I didn't quite understand about the «positive attitude», so I shook my head irritably. — No! I'm fine. Is that what you call depression? Miss White nodded and walked over to the table, pulling out some papers and examining them carefully. — And how do you treat them? — I asked with some apprehension, guessing in what way they most likely do it. — Hugs, gifts and parties… — Really?! — I exclaimed, interrupting the doctor, because my appearance at that moment was worth seeing: my eyes clearly became like two saucers, — Are you sure? That's not how it works! — I totally agree, — Ms. White sighed and shook her head, — But there's nothing I can do against these stubborn old men on the board of Equestria doctors. If it were possible to describe my reaction now, then I would depict a mental mass facepalm, like on that Internet meme where the crowd performs this action synchronously. I was in complete shock. — Excuse the expression, but they are stupid m... horses! — I corrected myself at the last moment, so as not to burst into obscenities at all. My legs were shaking and my eyes were bloodshot — this fact infuriated me so much. There was only one single cry in my head: «You can't do that-t-t-t!!!» — They have… These freaks have… Yes, even griffins, and that's much better in this regard! The brutes! — I couldn't stand it. Miss White jumped away from me sharply when she saw this reaction. — Be careful, Stevrian. You do understand that such antics can cost you... — She began, but I raised my foot, interrupting her. — I'm sorry. It escaped. It's just that everything is not so bad... — I sighed, clearly forgetting at that moment who I was playing at the moment. Of course, I was referring to the situation in Russia, although there were also claims to Russian medicine. «Why do I compare everything with Russia? Why not with the same USA, for example? Maybe because such a comparison is the closest. That's probably why!» But while I was thinking about all this, I completely forgot where I was right now. In order to focus, I decided to focus on the matters of the day. However, the doctor's logical question took me somewhat by surprise: — And what do you have there among the griffins? I was taken aback at first. But then he mentally slapped his forehead and hurried to correct the mistake: — I am not familiar with the official statistics. — And I know, — The interlocutor smiled thoughtfully, — As far as I remember, about twenty seven percent of those who suffer from some form of depression. — And among the Equestrians? — For the sake of interest, I decided to compare. — Forty eight percent, — Ms. White replied with a good deal of sadness. — The average number of patients per thousand? — I clarified the question. — Equestria has one hundred and twenty seven, on average, and griffins have two hundred and eleven. Not a comforting statistic, but as it is. There was a deathly silence in the office, interrupted only by the click of the clock on the wall, which counted down the seconds. Miss White looked completely confused, and I was beside myself with rage. «Holy shit, this is already over the line. And now this?! Where am I, Void devour you, got to? If everything looked rosy in the cartoon Equestria of the case, then this is just some kind of dystopia! It's getting harder and harder!» — I thought, mentally counting down to ten in my head to calm down. My breathing was getting heavier and heavier, and I could hear growling notes through it. Nevertheless, I managed to gather my emotions into a single fist. — It's just terrible! — I just said, shaking my head. — I agree, — Ms. White replied, turning to the window and putting the documents and pencil on the table, — I must admit that the griffins are superior to us in this regard. Their medicine works wonders even without magic. — For example? — I asked, raising my head with interest and looking at the interlocutor. — It's like you haven't been to Novo Gryphonia, — She giggled, — I've heard that they've invented a way to restore lost limbs to their soldiers, but only partially. — How partially? — This topic has fueled my sincere interest, pushing other thoughts out of my head. — Well, for example, sensitivity decreases or limbs make independent, involuntary movements, — She thoughtfully moved her hoof on the floor, — I don't remember the term, but it means something of this kind in griffins. There is no equivalent to this term in Equestria. — Tremor? — Remembering the medical practice, I hinted. — Yes, exactly! — She lifted her hoof up and smiled, but then immediately drooped, — Do you know why? — Let me guess.… Are there too few people who experience this phenomenon for official science to recognize this disease? — Unfortunately, — The doctor sighed sadly, — This is typical mainly for old people, and even then not for everyone. — What is the name of this disease among the people, if there is no scientific analogue? — «Shivers» — Ms. White replied dryly. — What about the delay in development and the inability to control their actions? — It's more senile, — The mare replied, also dryly. — I see, — I said no less emotionlessly, — Have you tried to do something about the official recognition of the disease by the medical society? — I? — The mare put a hoof to her chest in surprise, — Yes, I tried, but it didn't work out. It doesn't make sense. — Why? — I was alone, and there was no one to stand up for my arguments, — White lowered her eyes, but immediately shook her head and re-lit the horn with magical light, — But enough about the bad, let me examine you with magic. The conversation about Equestrian medicine was over for now, but the aftertaste from it remained extremely nasty. It's like living in a complete dystopia, where Celestia and her religion only cover up the problems in the country, exposing them in a shiny wrapper. While I was thinking, the doctor was moving her head from side to side, touching me with her glowing horn and occasionally examining my sides. She even took a closer look at what was between my hind legs, which confused me a little, but I stood still and waited. Finally, she reached a verdict: — In general, everything is fine with you, but something was interfering with my magic, — She rubbed her head with a hoof, — Apparently, magic has a weaker effect on you than it usually should be. «I wonder if this is a reason for joy or sadness? On the one hand, it is good to have a good resistance to magic in a world where it is an ordinary thing. But on the other hand, no one can even cure me if something happens to me.» — I don't even know what to say... — I honestly confessed, — On the one hand, hostile magic may not work in full force… — But healing magic doesn't work on you either, if I understood the report about that night correctly, — The mare interrupted me, narrowing her eyes sternly, — Magic diagnostics, in turn, works poorly with you as well. This could do you a very disservice in the future. What if you suddenly become ill, and the disease will not be detected, let alone treated? — And this is unpleasant, — I sighed sadly, shivering involuntarily. «It's good that my natural regeneration turned out to be higher than usual, otherwise I would still have to lie in bed,» — I calmed myself slightly, remembering my monstrous wounds on the first night and how quickly I was able to get back on my feet after all this. — Don't worry. Just try not to get into such situations, — Ms. White said and smiled, as it seemed to me, coquettishly. The mare sat down at the table and took out a cup and herbs with telekinesis. — Do you like tea? «Is he hitting on me? Well, okay, I'll drink tea, but no more,» — I mentally grinned, and then replied: — Yeah, I love it. Following the mug and herbs, a kettle was placed on a small tile in the corner of the room, under which a light was already burning. And I sat down to wait. — And what kind of tea exactly? — I asked. — Green, with a few small petals of a poisonous joke. — Isn't it dangerous? — Squinting a little, I clarified, — I heard that this plant does not do very good things with the body. — In this case, it is harmless, — The mare smiled and turned to the kettle, which boiled two minutes later, — The petals are dried and well processed. Try it, you'll like it. I nodded. Soon, Miss White poured tea into cups, and the conversation with her turned more into a domestic channel. During the conversation, I learned that she was a hereditary doctor in the third or fourth generation, and even that she had a famous grandmother: she had even treated Celestia herself. When I cautiously asked her about the Moon, she said that the attitude towards her was rather positive, but wary. After asking around a little more about Ms. White's «characteristics,» I realized that she might be another potential candidate. As a result, we stayed late into the evening, and I left her room only an hour before lights out. It was getting close to night, but I decided to lock myself in a room if possible and study magic with the Star. This time I was able to move the cube by several tens of centimeters in a minute, which pleased both of us. Dark also noted that when I «conjure», he does not feel any traces of magic. It's like I don't have one, and I'm not a unicorn. Sighing heavily, I had to tell him my theory about the fact that a more terrible force dwells in me, which does not give way to magic, but having previously taken a vow of silence from him. Star seemed scared, but he still tried to believe me and calmed down, and that was it. After putting everything in order and checking before lights out, I lay down in my bed and fell asleep to face the princess of the night again. This time I had something to tell her.

***

It didn't take long to wait for the princess. She showed up almost immediately, as soon as I fell asleep. — Luna, I have some newsᵉ, — I decided to start the conversation right away with the most important thing. — What kind of news have you prepared for usᵉ? — Luna raised an «eyebrow» questioningly. I hesitated for a few seconds, but then I raised my head and answered: — There are both good and bad onesᵉ. When should I startᵉ? — The bad ones firstᵉ, — The princess sighed sadly, preparing for the worst. — I'm really being watchedᵉ, — I said with a stern look, — Two guards revealed themselves when one of them hinted at it directlyᵉ. «Fortunately, he was not very smart and wanted to get a little more comfortable. But never mind — we'll rein him in if possible, I think» Luna wasn't particularly surprised. She rather expected this. — There's nothing to entrust to these foalsᵉ, — She giggled nervously, — Our sister has completely spoiled the guardᵉ. — Did it happen beforeᵉ? — Yesᵉ, — The dark blue mare nodded affirmatively, — But then everything was forgivenᵉ. — Even the good-natured cook Green, whom I helped, was not too luckyᵉ, — I moved on to another piece of news, — His daughter is likely to remain disabled due to a birth injuryᵉ. Luna hung her head a little and sighed sadly when she heard that. «Yes, it's doubly insulting when your whole life breaks down because of such accidents. I can't even do anything about it, and that's the most insulting thing!» — It's terribleᵉ, — Luna's voice became sympathetic, — Sometimes life is so unfair to its childrenᵉ. I hung my head heavily and nodded, dryly pursing my lips. «If only I could heal his daughter...» But then I decided to retell further, expressing my concerns: — It also seems to me that someone noticed me this afternoon when they let me go for a walkᵉ. When I entered the observation deck under the supervision of one of the guards, at one point I felt someone's eyes on me, although there was no one next to meᵉ. What could it beᵉ? — Your intuition is very sharpened, Stevrianᵉ, — Luna replied, chuckling, but then added, — It's unlikely that our sister will watch you twenty four hours a dayᵉ. We know her well enough to talk about itᵉ. «Do you know her well enough, Luna? She could have changed a lot in a thousand years» — The others are also not particularly interested in controlling youᵉ, — The Princess of the night continued meanwhile, — We have no assumptionsᵉ. But still, you can use this ability for goodᵉ. It's a rare giftᵉ. — Maybeᵉ. But I would not like to be watched by someone out of secrecyᵉ. It was clearly not the guards, but someone more seriousᵉ. Luna didn't say anything, but I didn't demand a momentary answer from her. Perhaps this observer will show up later, who knows. «I just hope he's not my enemy» — Okayᵉ. Now about the good thingᵉ, — I decided to move on to more pleasant topics and cheer up the Moon, — Many people treat you neutrally, and many are even afraidᵉ. I started looking for candidates for the Night Guard for you, and do you knowᵉ? I've already looked at someoneᵉ. — It's necessaryᵉ! — The Moon has visibly cheered up, — Great newsᵉ! Who is thisᵉ? — Dark Starᵉ. I've known him since the moment I woke up after that fateful meeting with youᵉ, — I bowed my head slightly in front of the Moon, as if thanking her for everything. — Why did you like him so much, since he signed up as a candidate for our future guardᵉ? — He treats you positivelyᵉ. And also, as he explained to me, he has an unusual connection with the night time of the dayᵉ. — Night watcherᵉ, — The mare immediately identified, interrupting me, and I was immediately puzzled. — I'm sorry, but who is itᵉ? — These are the ponies that are associated with our time, darkness, dark magicᵉ. They feel good in the light of the moon and are not afraid of the darkᵉ, — The princess explained to me, — The fact that he found you himself or you found him is a real happiness and a rare findᵉ, — She smiled broadly, —Thank you very muchᵉ. — You're welcome, Lunaᵉ, — I smiled back. It was a joy for me to hear words of gratitude from such a wonderful pony, — I am always ready to helpᵉ. — Who else have you found for usᵉ? — She asked next, remembering that I had mentioned other candidates. I decided not to hide anything and put it as it is. — Miss Whiteᵉ. Unfortunately, I do not know her last name, because she asked to be called that wayᵉ. She works in the barracks infirmaryᵉ. — Is she also a night watcherᵉ? — Rather, she just treats you wellᵉ. And as a doctor, which she is, she can be useful in the guardᵉ, — I added, raising a clawed paw in an index gesture. — The healer will be very useful to usᵉ, — The mare thought for a second and then nodded, — We'll think about itᵉ. Is there anyone elseᵉ? — There were three more, but I'm not sure about themᵉ. We won't count themᵉ, — I waved away, looking around. As before, there was nothing but fog and water on the «floor». «Still, there is a curious property in my «dreams». Water and fog... two elements that followed me relentlessly. Maybe someday I can prove myself in these two areas of magic? We'll see» — Goodᵉ. That's quite enough right nowᵉ, — She bowed gratefully, which put me in a slight stupor, — You have no idea how good a job you're doingᵉ. We will thank you in the futureᵉ. — But I don't need anythingᵉ… — We do not accept refusalsᵉ, — The princess straightened up and stamped her hoof, shaking her head, — We will reward you for your service when we canᵉ. — Okay, okayᵉ, — I took a deep breath and ran my hand over my muzzle, — I'd be honoredᵉ. Although it can definitely be called a serviceᵉ? — Yesᵉ, — The princess of the night smiled cunningly, — Bow to our greatness, servantᵉ! She lifted her head majestically, watching me. There was no contempt in her, but I could clearly feel her commanding tone. Of course, I respected her very much, and even in all seriousness I was ready to bow down to her — she was worthy of it. But still, it was strange, so I decided to clarify: — Bow downᵉ? You were joking, rightᵉ? — Ahaᵉ, — Luna giggled into her hoof, getting back into a normal position, — You don't have to kiss our hoofᵉ. But we feel that you will bend your knee, somedayᵉ. — I understandᵉ, — I replied, noticing the irony of the situation, but then sat down on the floor, remembering the need to study literature, — Will we continue our studies todayᵉ? — Yesᵉ, — She nodded and materialized a copy of the book in front of her, — The night will be longer than usual today, because we slowed down time here in order to make more timeᵉ. — Wowᵉ! You didn't tell me about your ability to do thisᵉ. I guessed it from the last time, but thank you! It will do us goodᵉ, — I replied readily, sitting closer to her. — We have… A lot of secretsᵉ, — She blinked mysteriously and opened the book to the right page, — And now let's get startedᵉ. It was going to be a long night. There are so many things I didn't study even when I was at the medical academy. At least this time there was nothing to write down, but only listen and absorb the information. So in the morning I will wake up with full information in my head, and in a week I will be able to learn to read without the help of the Moon. I was looking forward to it.