>>411630"Maybe your old advisor isn't entirely in control of his own mind. These sort of tactics hardly seem fitting of someone who you valued for his wisdom."
Rarity murmurs an agreement.
Nodding, Celestia replies, "I agree these tactics are quite out-of-character for him. And, as cruel as it may sound, I hope he is not in control of his mind, that I might find cause for mercy. He was always very adamant about his thoughts, and put the well-being of Equestria above all else. I only hope he has not taken his conviction to an extreme."
>>411639"If you knew him so well, did he give any hint at where he might be heading?"
"He did not. While I did not wish him to depart and still held respect for his knowledge, I regret to say the feeling was likely not mutual. He left 'in a huff', as it were."
>>411634Nodding, you think on all Celestia and Luna have told you. The mere idea of a kidnapper sickens you, a hate for this fallen advisor already burning up within you. It also pains you to see Celestia so saddened by the kidnapping of her friend Twilight. Maybe you haven't known Celestia all that long, but she saved your ass back in that cavern and has been nothing but kind since. Her sister may be a bit blunt, but she's alright by you, too. Really, all of these ponies have been welcoming, albeit some more than others. They don't deserve to go through this, and as out-of-place as you may be…
"I'd like to help. I can't sit here, being useless, while your friend is out there, captive."
Pinkie scoots over to you and nuzzles your shoulder, surprising you a bit with the sudden touch, but you pat her mane once you recognize what she's doing. Luna seems a little suspicious, but doesn't voice any objection.
"I can hardly ask that of you, traveler. While I appreciate your help back in the cavern and your openminded-ness at greeting my friends, this is still a matter very beyond you and, as demonstrated today, quite dangerous."
"Consider it payback for saving me back there, then. I owe it to you."
"There is no debt between us. Do not do this out of some sense of duty."
You frown, crossing your arms. She's being awfully stubborn on this. "I'm doing it because I hate ass—er, punks that kidnap people. Well, ponies, in your case. I want to do this."
Sighing, Celestia shakes her head, but you can see a smile beneath that exasperation. "If you are determined, I will not be the one to stand in your way. But it is late now, and I must retire. My sister can answer any further questions you have, though I think it would be best if you rested as well." Celestia stands up, signalling for everyone else to do so as well. She makes her way to the tent exit, but pauses before leaving. "Luna, please make sure our new friend sees a doctor before retiring for the night. And," she says turning to you, "thank you."
