The Forgotten Sisters

Chapters

Chapter 8--Flagra
Chapter 15--The Limestone Forest
Prologue
Chapter 1--Starswirl the Bearded
Chapter 2--Clover the Clever
Chapter 3--Princess Animia
Chapter 4--Princess Floriana
Chapter 5--Princess Luna
Chapter 6--Princess Celestia
Chapter 7--Family Dinner
Chapter 9--The Adventure Begins
Chapter 10--Pirates
Chapter 11--Meanwhile
Chapter 12--Ambios Marking and Dream Klitrio
Chapter 13--Herensuge
Chapter 14--Battle of Aneto

Chapter 8--Flagra

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Chapter 15--The Limestone Forest

The evening after defeating Rida, the group stayed in an inn in Aneto. While there, they planned the journey to Trottingham.

“I believe the quickest path to Trottingham is to go straight through Prance,” River suggested.

“That seems to be the case,” Clover confirmed.

“Can we stop at the Limestone Forest? It is said to be one of the most beautiful natural regions of Prance,” Floriana requested.

“I suppose that can be arranged, it is essentially on the way,” River said. “And that would be a good camping place as it would be about nightfall tomorrow when we get there.”

“Sounds like a plan. And we can plan the rest of the journey when we get there,” Clover said.

“And so we go,” Animia chimed in.

Using Old Oakie as a cart and taking turns pulling it, the group travelled to the forest. The journey went rather uneventfully but upon their arrival to what was said to be the most beautiful natural region of Prance, the group was shocked to see the current state of the landmark. Floriana, perhaps, was the most upset at seeing that the forest had been almost completely destroyed by a wildfire.

“I can’t believe this,” she said, observing the scene.

“It is quite the shame,” River said. “I’m sure that it was quite beautiful before it was burned, but we mustn’t dwell on this now. Let us set up camp so we may rest for the night. We continue our journey at first light.”

“Why must you be so stoic? Can’t you show a little care for all the plants that died a most gruesome death?”

“You think I don’t care? Some of my best allies are forest nymphs. Many had lived in this area as well. Believe me, I care deeply about what has transpired here but we have a mission. It is only a matter of time before Tirek shows his ugly face and we need to find the remaining Stones of Power in order to defeat him. This means that we cannot waste our time mourning the loss of a forest to what I can only assume was a naturally caused fire.”

“I understand this but can we not at the least put some effort into helping this forest regrow? My fytomancy can help the forest grow.”

“Actually,” Clover said, “That’s not necessarily true. Your magic is a control magic. While you are able to make Old Oakie grow at will, it is a manipulation of the genetic code accelerating its natural growing rate. If there were already plant life here, then you would be able to accelerate the growth rate of the existing plant life but you cannot create new plant life from nothing. Such a power is known only by forest nymphs and the most powerful of magic users. I doubt even Starswirl could do such a thing.”

“What Clover says is true in most respects,” River said. “However, there is a way around this. Forest Nymphs create plants by imbuing the soil with their natural magic causing plants to grow. The only other known way to create plant life is by manipulating a single seed and accelerating it growth rate while simultaneously duplicating it. I have a separate theory that I believe may work. If we could comprehend the complex chemical makeup of each plant, it is conceivable that we could manipulate the surrounding chemical compounds to create plants.”

“So you’re saying that we would need to stitch together plants from the ashes that remain by breaking the ash up into individual atoms and then recombining them in a way that would be recognized as a plant?”

“Precisely. But to do such a thing, we would need to know exactly what chemical compounds are necessary to create a plant as well as different varieties of plant as no forest is a single type of plant.”

“This is true. Unfortunately, I am a bit rusty on my biological chemistry.”

“Well,” Floriana chimed in, “Lucky for you, I know all about the chemical compounds of plants. It was a part of my magical studies.”

“Well, that will certainly help,” River said, “but your magic is a control magic, not a creation magic.”

“Would general magic work?” Clover asked.

“Perhaps, but your magic is not strong enough for such a complex spell.”

“What if we helped?” Ambios asked, referring to himself and Dream.

“That may work. I would need to assess your magical capabilities to be sure though.”

“What do you mean by that?” Dream asked.

“It means, I would need to touch your horn. Doing so would allow me to see the power and nature of your magic. I would then be able to tell whether your combined magics would be enough to create life.”

“I’m not so sure about this.”

“Don’t worry, it won’t hurt a bit.”

“Very well, proceed.”

River morphed her shape into that of a human and grabbed Dream’s horn in her hand. She closed her eyes and focused for a minute, assessing his power. “I can see that you are quite powerful but I am unable to read the true nature of your power. Nonetheless, I do believe it will be sufficient in helping matters here.”

“My turn,” Ambios said.

River walked over to Ambios and put her hand on his horn. Focusing like before, she said “You also have quite some power within you. The nature of your power seems to be leaning more toward control magic though I also sense a possibility of creation magic. I believe that you could also be of some help in this process. Between the three of you, I do believe that there is enough power for the task.”

“So we could regrow the forest?” Floriana asked hopefully.

“Theoretically, yes. And since you all seem so insistent in doing so, we shall make this our task tomorrow. I still think we should be doing all we can to get to Trottingham as quickly as possible but if you all want to waste a day regrowing a forest then who am I to try stopping you.”

“So it’s a plan then,” Clover said, somewhat ignoring River’s comment. “Let’s set up camp then and start regrowing this forest first thing in the morning.”

The next morning, after a quick breakfast, the group got to work regrowing the forest. With Floriana’s knowledge of the chemical formulas necessary, Clover, Ambios, and Dream got started creating new trees and shrubbery to populate the forest. After several plants were formed, Floriana began accelerating their growth. River provided water for the forest while Animia sent Albus to gather some woodland critters to bring to the forest. Meanwhile, Flagra, not being of any use to this project, decided to contact the Doctor to inform him of their progress in collecting the Stones.

“We have collected the Stone of Honesty from Herensuge. We are currently on our way to Trottingham through Prance,” she said into her wristband.

“Splendid. Where are you now?” the Doctor’s voice asked through the communicator.

“We are in what was once the Limestone Forest. The others are working on regrowing the forest after it burned down in a wildfire.”

“How can that be? Clover’s magic isn’t nearly powerful enough to create life.”

“We picked up a couple of ponies in Aneto, they’re magic is enough to provide enough power to create life.”

“New party members? Did you check them for any potential danger?”

“Of course, I’m not inept. Dream Klitrio and Ambios Marking, they both check out. I checked every possible anagram I could think of.”

“And how was their magic assessed?”

“River. She’s a water elemental that we picked up. She was captaining a pirate ship and we were unlucky enough to be captured. A couple months at sea and I discovered I was pregnant. We asked kindly to be released which was returned with equal kindness. We were taken to Valencia and then to Aneto. This is where we met Herensuge who sent us to ‘disband’ a certain anti-dragon group in town. Upon doing so, he gave us the Stone and sent us on our way with River joining the party. Although, now that I think about it, she was a major help in ‘disbanding’ that group so I suppose we were actually lucky that she kidnapped us.”

“Yes, perhaps. Be careful around her. The last thing you want is to be drawn into the constant fights between elementals. But while you’re in the Limestone Forest, there’s someone I want you to talk to. She calls herself the Lusitano Mistress. She should be living in a cave nearby. Word is, she might know something about the Stones.”

“A cavepony? Are you sure about this?”

“Hey, if it makes you feel any better, your distant ancestors lived in caves, too.”

“I suppose so. Fine, we’ll finish this regrowing and then we’ll go searching for this Lusitano Mistress.”

“Very well. Keep me updated.”

“Will do.” She deactivated the communicator and stood by ironically playing with her fire magic while the others finished the regrowing of the forest. Once they were done, nearly nightfall, she addressed them about the next task. “I was talking to the Doctor while you guys were growing a forest, nice job by the way. Anyways, he said that there’s someone called the Lusitano Mistress who lives in a cave nearby. He wants us to find her and talk to her. Supposedly she might know something about the Stones of Power.”

“Indeed I do,” a voice said. An older-looking red mare with faded yellow and orange hair walked out from behind a newly grown tree. She wore a maroon fez, a long black cape which covered most of her body including her cutiemark, and a very long scarf with many stripes of different colors. On her front leg was a communicator like the one Flagra had in the same navy blue color though the new mare’s seemed much older. She also had sunglasses on which seemed to suggest that she was blind. But perhaps the most interesting feature about this old mare was that she was sporting a broken unicorn horn atop her head. “You should see the looks on your faces,” she laughed. “Priceless.”

“You can see us?” Clover asked, surprised.

“You assumed I can’t?”

“Well, it’s just that the sunglasses--”

“Save your speech. No, I can’t see you, not in the traditional sense anyways. Been blind for, what’s it been now? 500 years? Turns out that when your horn break, it kinda repairs any disabilities you have though, as I said, not in the traditional sense. The ‘seeing’ that I use is more magical than literal. I’ve tapped into the magical field that surrounds all beings and it allows me to ‘see.’ The sunglasses are more of an aesthetic than anything. I appreciate what you’ve done for this forest, such an act was very kind, especially considering the consequences of the fire.”

“You know how the forest burned?”

“Yes. It was a fire elemental.”

“A fire?” River said. “Did you get a name?”

“As if I could ignore it. She was running around screaming it. Hell, she even came right up to me and told me to ‘Let it be known that this forest was burned by Flare, the fire elemental.’”

“Flare.”

“You know her?” Clover asked.

“Yeah, she’s my sister.”

“Sister?”

“It’s complicated. Elementals don’t exactly have blood so we can’t have blood relatives but we do call each other sisters because we came to be at the same time and place. We were...raised...together. The main difference is that she is crazier than a platypus crossed with a jackalope. She’s been running amuck for the past few centuries starting fires all over the continent. I’ve been trying to track her down all this time but she’s always one step ahead of me. I even went undercover as a pirate for a few decades so I’d have more mobility but I still couldn’t catch her.”

“That would explain why you wanted us to search for places recently hit by fires for plundering.”

“Exactly, I was trying to track her down. How long ago was the forest burned?”

“About a week ago,” the old mare said.

“Damn. She could be anywhere by now.”

“Which is why we should get back to the task at hand. I’m not getting any younger after all.”

“Of course,” Clover said. “You’re the Lusitano Mistress, am I right?”

“Ha. Is that what the Doctor told you? He likes to call me that, not sure why, though. Call me F.”

“F?”

“Yep. I’m afraid I can’t tell you my full name. Information can be dangerous as you may know. Come with me to my cave. We can talk there.”

The group followed F to a nearby cave where she welcomed them gracefully with some drinks.

“So, the Doctor says you know about the Stones of Power,” Clover said.

“Those damn Stones have been in my life since before I was born,” F said. “Yeah, I know ‘em.”

“So, what can you tell us?”

“Well, for starters, I have one of them. And since you all were so kind to restore my forest to its former glory, I will gladly give it to you.” She walked over to a nearby safe and opened it with magic. She then levitated out a Stone of Power and gave it to the group.

“How did you do that? Your horn is broken.”

“When you get to be as old as me, you learn how to work around that. I believe you heard about natural magic from Herensuge.”

“You know Herensuge?” River asked.

“I do. The other keepers of the Stones as well. The Doctor has one, as you know. So does the self-proclaimed ‘Great and Comical’ Trixter in Pie Town. And finally Cheval in Mareis. The five of us are the elite of the Cult of Random Shady Nachos I, myself as the head. We have come together in an effort to kill Discord.”

“Kill Discord? But he can’t be killed.”

“That’s what we thought, too. Until we came upon some ancient texts telling of the Stones of Power and how they were made to defeat the evilest of evils. The Doctor then tells me that you all are set on collecting them all to defeat Tirek. We believe they could also be used against Discord.”

“So why give them to us then? If you have them all, why not just use them?”

“Well, for starters, we have no idea where Discord is. And besides, there’s a sixth Stone.”

“A sixth?”

“Yeah, and no one knows where it is. Trust me, we asked literally everyone in the world. And, to no surprise, most people don’t even know what the Stones are, let alone that there’s a sixth. Luckily, I caught wind that when the five Stones are brought together, the sixth will be presented to the bearers. Unfortunately, we also learned that we are unable to do so. It seems that only natural born alicorns are able to summon the sixth Stone. That is why we have been giving them to you. Though it seems that some of the others may have a sort of test for you to pass in order to get the Stone that they hold. I can tell you this much, killing a terrorist group was probably the hardest one you’ll have to go through.”

“Well, thank you for all your help. And for all that you’ve told us. With any luck, we will defeat both Tirek and Discord.”

“Indeed. Well, if you want, you can stay here for the night. I have offshoot caves where you can sleep.” She pointed them in the direction of the ‘rooms’ and they all went to bed. Once she was sure that they were out of earshot, she activated her communicator. “It’s done,” she told the Doctor. “But I must say that I’m not too happy working with the enemy so close.”

“I know how you feel about them,” the Doctor said. “And I know that you’ve dealt with them more than your fair share of times. But, I also know that all of this must transpire. You of all people should know to not meddle with the course of history.”

“Yeah, tell me about it. I’m glad that my role in all this is finally almost over.”

“One last trip for you if I’m not mistaken.”

“Yep. I gotta stick around here for a while longer, though; I have to leave at the right time to cause the necessary interference.”

“Do you know when you’ll end up?”

“Not a clue, but with any luck, I can control it enough to land me in the right year at least.”

“Well, lucky for you, you get to die a peaceful death after all this. For all I know, I got another regeneration coming up at the end of all this.”

“How many you got left?”

“What, trips or regenerations?”

“Both.”

“Until this is done, I got at least three more jumps.”

“And regenerations?”

“Well, by my count, I only have two left but it seems that every time I near the end, something happens and I regenerate again. It’s almost like the universe is keeping me alive for something.”

“That sounds ominous.”

“Yeah, tell me about it. Anyways, make sure they get on their way in the morning. I should be seeing them within the week, if I’m not mistaken.”

“That seems about right. I’ll be sure to send them to Pie Town first thing in the morning. Will I see you again?”

“Definitely in my future but I can’t be so sure about yours, what little of it you have left that is.”

“That’s fair. Well, if I don’t see you again, you better take care of yourself.”

“Don’t talk like that, you know I hate goodbyes.”

“Hate them or not they have to happen. So, as I said, take care of yourself.”

“Yeah, you too.”

F turned of her communicator and went to bed with thoughts of the future lulling her to sleep.

Prologue

The truth. Some say it is a mystical theory that can never be found. Others claim that it can be found in parts but the full truth can never be known. I, Princess Celestia of Equestria, have requested that only two copies of this are made, one for my self and the other to be sent into circulation. I would first like to begin by saying that all the history books in Equestria are false. What you are about to read is the truth. The truth about me. The truth about Starswirl the Bearded. The truth about Clover the Clever. The truth about my sister Luna. And most of all, the truth about my other two sisters Floriana and Animia who are not mentioned anywhere else but here. The following chapters contain accounts from Floriana and Animia, accounts from Starswirl the Bearded, entries from Clover the Clever’s personal journal, Síor’s personal journal about his and Twilight Sparkle’s visit to this time period, and my own personal accounts of other events. I am having this written so that one day, someone will read it and be able to help us to reunite with each other and once again live as a family. Understand that if you are reading this it means that you were chosen as one of the few people I trust with this information. You will not be able to share this information with anyone except the following: Twilight Sparkle, Clover the Clever, Síor, Luna, or myself. Any attempt to share this information with anyone else will result in severe pain to whomever you attempt to tell whether by talking about it or by trying to have them read this. This protection is achieved through the use of magic which, by the time any of those people are able to read this, will be long since forgotten so please whatever you do, do not attempt to share this knowledge with anyone not listed above. I trust unto thee to read these accounts and help my family and me reunite in the future and overall to help us find and defeat Discord.

Chapter 1--Starswirl the Bearded

“Finally it’s complete!” Starswirl exclaimed as Celestia rushed in to investigate why he was yelling. Starswirl was a white-haired, gray unicorn pony who was studying new forms of magic and trying to come up with new spells. This often leads to magical accidents happening in which case his cousin Celestia has to help him fix the mess. This has made her quite alert to any yelling coming from Starswirl’s magic laboratory.

“What is it? What’s complete?” Celestia asked of her cousin.

“It’s my latest masterpiece! The perfect spell for any stallion trying to get it with the ladies!”

“Are you going to tell me what it does or am I going to have to guess?”

“Why don’t I show you instead?” Starswirl performed his newest spell then turned to his cousin so she could see what it accomplished.

“Starswirl! You have a beard!”

“I know! It’s great isn’t it? And I’ve even started working on adapting it for different styles of facial hair.”

“Starswirl, I fear you have too much time on your hooves.”

“To much thyme? How could I have too much thyme? I hardly use spices in my potions. I mean sure every once in a while I need a spice or two for some special property or another but never too much.”

“I’m not talking about the spice, I’m saying you need to find a more productive use for your magical knowledge. I think a short break from your studies might be good for you.”

“A break from my studies? I’m sorry but I’m going to have to decline.”

“It wasn’t an offer. Here’s 100 bits, go buy some material to make something. All the best wizards are known for their wardrobes and you don’t own a stitch of clothing.”

“So you’re going to make me make my own clothing?”

“But of course! The best outfits are those that you make yourself. Besides, I don’t think any pre-made outfit could quite capture your eccentric behavior.”

“Alright, fair enough. I’ll go out on the market and get the stuff I need to make an outfit worthy of Starswirl the Bearded. Hey, I like the sound of that ‘Starswirl the Bearded.’ It’s got a nice ring to it don’t you think?”

“Are you saying that you’d like to be known as ‘the Bearded’ when your works are recorded for posterity?”

“That would be marvelous. After all, most conjurers are often dubbed by their first magnificent spell and I daresay this is my first masterpiece.”

“What about all your previous spells?”

“Mere parlor tricks, all of them. This is my first spell that actually has any practical use.”

“I suppose you do have a point. All your previous spells are rather simple things like miniature parades or tiny rainclouds.”

“Oh, you can’t forget the Coat Color Changer.”

“Ah yes, that one’s gotten you into trouble more than a few times. But right now, I’d like you to go out and get some materials and when you get back, I want you to make your own outfit that everypony will know you for. After that I want you to try and come up with some more practical spells. Try something that has to do with transformation or camouflage.”

”Hmm, I’m sure I could work some magic in those fields. I’ll get right on it as soon as my outfit is complete.” Starswirl left with 100 bits in his pouch and set himself on a quest for materials. His first stop was at a nearby fabric shop where the owner, a bright purple unicorn stallion with black hair named Tailored Moon, was a good friend of his.

“Hey Moony, how are the sales going?” Starswirl asked as he walked into the shop.

“Excuse me, sir, but nopony calls me Moony except...wait, is that you, Starswirl?” the owner asked.

“The one and only.”

“I hardly recognized you with that beard. How’d you grow it so fast?”

“My latest spell. It lets the castor make hair grow on any part of any body he chooses. Right now it only makes really thick hair like this beard but I’m working on other styles as well.”

“Well, it sounds like your magical research business is really taking off. So, did you need anything or did you just want to show off your beard?”

“Oh yeah, Celestia sent me to get some supplies because apparently all the up and coming wizards have their own notable wardrobes. So, I’m here for some fabric.”

“I hope so, I don’t sell anything else. What colors and how much?”

“Give me about three yards of dark sapphire blue, about a yard or two of moderate sapphire blue, about a yard of light moderate sapphire blue, a yard of pale light grayish cornflower blue, and a yard of light gold. I could also use a spool of each of those colors of thread.”

“Alright, not a problem that’ll be 15 bits for all of it.”

“Thank you, here’s your 15 bits, don’t spend it all in one place.”

“You know I will.”

“That’s probably true. See you later Moony.” He left the shop with his supplies and went to make one more stop. “I got my fabric, but a good outfit needs some accessories as well.” He went to the metal and jewelry shop to see what he could add to his outfit.

“Good afternoon sir, a fine day we’re having isn’t it?” the shopkeeper, a orange-and-yellow-tinted-silver-maned sapphire-blue unicorn mare with golden eyes by the name of Sapphire Silver, addressed him as he entered the shop.

“Sapph, it’s me Starswirl.”

“Swirly? When did you grow a beard?”

“This morning when I tested my new spell.”

“My goodness, that’s amazing! I knew you had it in you to do something useful with that magic of yours.”

“All it took was a little time.”

“So what’s the fabric for?”

“Oh yeah, I’m making an outfit to go with my up and coming magical career. Speaking of which, I was wondering what kind of accessories you had in stock.”

“Well, we just got a shipload of bells yesterday and we always have plenty of rings but what I think would go really well with all those blues is a nice turquoise amulet.” She grabbed an amulet from the counter with her magic and showed it to him.

“I knew I could count on you to know just what to get, you always were good with accessories. I’ll take it and some bells too.”

“Why do you want the bells?”

“I have to add a little pizzazz to my outfit, right?”

“Just don’t go overboard with the bells.”

“Don’t worry, I only need about 20.”

“Yes, because 20 bells isn’t overdoing it at all,” she replied sarcastically.

“Exactly! Now how much do I owe you?”

“For you, not a bit.”

“Have I ever told you that you are the best marefriend ever?”

“You could stand to mention it more.”

“Well, I have time later if you want to get some dinner. What time do you get off?”

“I own the shop, I can be off whenever.”

“Oh, right. Well, why don’t you take 50 bits, go buy yourself a nice dress, and meet me by Pino’s at 7 tonight.”

“That sounds wonderful. I’ll see you there.” She kissed him on the cheek and left.

“So, Iron Chain,” Starswirl said to the grey-haired brown earth pony clerk who worked for Sapphire Silver, “You got the ring?”

“Just finished it today,” Iron Chain said as he showed Starswirl the ring he ordered. It was a braided gold ring with a full inner circle and the biggest sapphire he could buy. On the inside he had engraved ‘Always.’

“It’s perfect! Now she just needs to say yes.”

“Have you told your family yet?”

“Are you kidding? If I told any of those royal nutjobs they’d practically force her to marry me.”

“What’s wrong with that?”

“I want her to marry me because she loves me, not because if she doesn’t, she’ll be sent to prison.”

“Ah, fair point. Well, good luck Swirly.”

“Yeah, yeah. Laugh while you can, pretty soon I’ll be married to your boss.” He left to return to the castle. He put the ring with the tuxedo that he had hidden away and set to work making his outfit. He finished at about 6:30 and started getting ready for his date.

And that’s when Celestia came in. “Cousin Starswirl, how goes your outfit making?”

“Oh, I just finished,” the unicorn said while holding his tuxedo to the ceiling with his magic.

“Well, let me see it.”

He used his magic to put on his new outfit while still holding his tux to the ceiling.

“Of course you of all ponies would line it with bells but other than that it’s not bad. Keep up the good work with your magic.” She turned to leave and Starswirl let out a sigh of relief. “Oh and Starswirl, I’m sure you’re aware that whenever magic is being used, it let’s out a certain energy that other magic users can detect. So, tell me what are you hiding?”

“I’m not hiding anything, your magic detection must be not working right.” Celestia’s horn lit up when he said that. “I knew teaching you that lie detecting spell was a bad idea!”

“That wasn’t lie detection, that was a light spell. So, tell me the truth since you just admitted to lying.”

“I’m sorry but this is something I can’t tell you.”

“You realize that I can easily disrupt your magic with a simple knock on your horn, right? And then whatever it is that you’re trying to hide will be revealed.”

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Oh wouldn’t I? You can either tell me what you’re hiding or I’ll find out.” She started walking back over to him and put a hoof to his horn. “Last chance.”

“Never.” Starswirl put all his focus into holding his magic to try to not let it be cancelled but when Celestia hit his horn it faltered for just a second and the tux fell into Celestia’s view.

“What’s this?”

“My tuxedo,” Starswirl confessed.

“Why do you have a tuxedo?”

“For special occasions.”

“Like what? Are you going somewhere tonight?”

Starswirl sighed. “You know that mare who owns the jewelry and metal working shop?”

“You mean Sapphire Silver?”

“I’ve been secretly dating her for about a year now and tonight I was going to ask her to marry me.”

“Oh? And why haven’t you told anyone about this?”

“Because I knew that if any of you found out you would make a big deal about it and make some sort of law that if a noble asks you to marry him then you are required to do so. I want her to marry me for me, not for my family.”

“I understand completely. I just wish you had trusted me, you mentor and cousin, to keep your secret. I’ll let you go this time, but you owe me.”

“Thanks Tia, you’re the best.”

“Don’t forget it.”

Celestia left and Starswirl finished getting ready before he went out to meet his marefriend. He saw her waiting out front at 5 minutes before 7 and quickly ducked behind the restaurant where he told Cinna, a cinnamon-colored earth pony with sugary-white hair, to meet him.

“You got the ring?” she asked.

He gave her the ring. “Where will it be?”

“We have engagements happening here pretty often so we designed a drinking glass that is perfect for holding a ring. It will be on the drink after you order the meal.”

“Perfect. Thanks a lot Cinna.”

“Anything for a good friend.”

Starswirl then left the alley and went to meet Sapphire. “There you are, I was starting to think you weren’t showing up,” she said when she saw him.

“In all the time we’ve been dating have I ever been late even once? I did get held up a bit by Celestia but I got that taken care of. From now until sunrise, I’m all yours.”

They were guided to their table and each given a menu. “What should we get?” Sapphire asked as they looked over the menu. They had been to the restaurant so many times that they had the menu memorized but they still looked at it out of habit.

“I don’t know. What do you think, should we get the lover’s special for old time’s sake?”

“You read my mind.”

They ordered the meal and the waiter brought the drinks, Sapphire’s with the ring on it as planned. “What’s this?” she asked when she saw the ring, pulling it off the glass.

Starswirl then took the ring in his magical aura and took her hooves in his as he got down on his back legs and said “After dating you for nearly a year, I’ve finally come to realize that my life would never be the same without you. I want to see you everyday and know that you will never leave me. Sapphire Silver, would you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?”

“Oh Swirly of course I’ll marry you!”

“Oh wonderful, there’s just one little thing.”

“What’s that?”

“You need to meet my family.”

“That’s right, in all the time we’ve been dating you never introduced me to them or even told me who they were. Why is that?”

“Well, to tell you the truth, my family is the royal family of Equestria.”

“You're kidding.”

“I swear on my rank as the Duke of Equestria.”

“You’re not kidding. So how does this work, do I come into the throne room and just say ‘Hi, I’m Sapphire Silver and I’m engaged to Starswirl?’”

“Well, it’s customary to have a dinner with your parents and my aunt and uncle, the king and queen, who are my current caretakers after my parents died. At that dinner, they’ll decide if they like you or not and if they do, then we’ll set the wedding date.”

“And if they don’t like me?”

“That won’t happen. There’s nothing about you that’s not to like.” He gave her a kiss before he noticed that the food was coming. “Oh, our food is here. I’ll tell my family tonight and we’ll schedule a dinner for next Saturday.”

“Ok, that sounds fine.”

“There’s nothing to worry about, I’m sure they’ll love you just as much as I do.”

“Alright, if you say so.”

“I do say so. I also say that I’m rather hungry so let’s eat before I run out of things to say.”

“I agree. I haven’t eaten since noon and I am quite famished.”

“Well then shall we once again fall under the spell of the lover’s special?”

“I think we shall.”

Chapter 2--Clover the Clever

“Come on Clover, you can solve it, I know you can!” Clover’s brown-haired light brown earth pony friend Spud said.

Clover concentrated as he looked at the number puzzle:
1
11
21
1211
111221
??????
????????
??????????
??????????????
????????????????????
??????????????????????????
??????????????????????????????????
???????????????????????????????????????????????
??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
“It’s quite simple really,” Clover said. “you simply read aloud each line and that is what is in the next. In the first line I see one 1 so there is written in the next line a 1 and another 1. Reading that line I see two 1’s so the next line is 2 1. Then there is one 2 and two 1’s. Then one 1, one 2, two 1’s. Continuing in this manner, I can solve the next ten lines.” he picked up the quill with his magic and solved the problem:
1
11
21
1211
111221
312211
13112221
1113213211
31131211131221
13211311123113112211
11131221133112132113212221
3113112221232112111312211312113211
1321132132111213122112321311222113111221131221
1113122113121113123112111311222112131211132132211331222113112211
31131122211311123113111213211231132132211211131112311312111322212311322113212221

“Amazing!” Spud said. “Simply amazing. how are you able to solve these things so easily? You’re so clever, truly you are.”

“Oh stop, it’s a simple matter of reading the lines a certain way. That one was easy, give me something harder.”

“Harder? Well, I’ll see what I can find.” He rummaged through the stacks of riddle books that were piled up around the two of them and found the one titled World’s Hardest Riddles. “Here we are. Let’s just flip to a random page a try one. Here we go. This one is called Schreienstein’s Riddle. It says: ‘There are 5 houses that are each a different color. There is a person of a different race in each house. The 5 owners drink a certain drink. They each eat a certain food and also have a certain pet. No owner has the same pet, seats the same food nor drinks the same drink. The question is. “Who has the fish?”' it also gives 15 clues:
1. The griffin lives in the red house.
2. The zebra has a dog for a pet.
3. The sheep drinks tea.
4. The green house is to the left of the white house.
5. The owner of the green house drinks hay and oats smoothies.
6. The person that eats apples has a bird.
7. The owner of the yellow house eats bananas.
8. The person that lives in the middle house drinks milk.
9. The minotaur lives in the first house.
10. The person that eats cherries lives next to the one that has a cat.
11. The person that has a pig lives next to the one that eats bananas.
12. The one that eats papayas drinks orange juice.
13. The unicorn eats mangoes.
14. The minotaur lives next to a blue house.
15. The person that eats cherries, has a neighbour that drinks water.”

“That’s not really difficult, just time-consuming. It’s simple really. All you have to do is go through the clues until you have all of them used up. We start by making five different sections for each house with a sorter on the side 1 Then we use the clues to fill in the information. Clue number 9 says that the minotaur lives in the first house so I can write minotaur in the first box 2 Now I will look for other clues pertaining to the minotaur. Number 14 says that the minotaur lives next to a blue house. So the only house that’s next to the minotaur must be blue 3 The next helpful clue is number 8 which says that the person living in the middle house drinks milk. So we put milk in the center house 4 The remaining clues give no definite help so we must make speculations. These speculations will link certain details together. Using the remaining clues we can see these connections. I will use different colors of ink for the different connections 5 Now that we have all the information on the chart, we can write anything that is unopposed as a confirmed detail 6 Therefore I can determine that the owner of the fish would be the unicorn who lives in the fourth house, the green house, drinks hay and oats smoothies, and eats mangoes.”

“Incredible! You truly are as clever as everyone says. That riddle is said to be impossible to 98% of people.”

“Oh, I’m sure that isn’t true. Schreienstein was one to joke about things so it’s quite possible that he said this to create a challenge for others. I simply utilize my mental abilities rather than wasting my time with frivolous tasks such as merchandising or restauranteering or the worst one of all: adventuring.”

“What’s so bad about adventuring?”

“Risking your lives, performing feats that could lead to any number of outcomes, not knowing what may come next. The better question would be what isn’t so bad about adventuring.”

“You know, if you keep that mindset, you’ll live your life as a cooped-up old hermit who spends his entire life playing a banjo and watching over a young civilization.”

“I read that novel, too, Spud. Don’t be clever, I’m the clever one; you’re the potato one.”

“I may be a mere potato farmer but that doesn’t mean I lack all mental capabilities.”

“My apologies, I meant no offense.”

“And I took none, just be careful what you say regarding the minds of others.”

“I will have to remember that.”

“Now then, shall we return to the riddles?”

“I think not. I’ve had enough of riddling matters today.”

“Well, I will be rather busy this week as I need to manage my fields. Does Saturday work for you?”

“I am afraid not, my family has scheduled a family dinner on Saturday. It’s a matter of some importance to Starswirl. Surely you understand.”

“Ah, yes. If I recall, Starswirl used to be your mentor until you decided to go your own way.”

“Yes that is correct. After his teachings proved ineffective, I decided that it would be best to continue my studies separately. But despite that fact, he is still family and whatever he thinks is important to the family is important to me.”

“You call him family yet he is your cousins’ cousin, a distant relative if any.”

“The amount of blood we share is irrelevant, we were raised together after our respective parents died. I consider him more of a brother than anything else.”

“Very well, I understand, though you never did tell me what happened to your parents.”

“It’s a long story, perhaps another time.”

“I meant no intrusion.”

“Oh, no it’s fine. If anyone deserves the right to know it would be you, after all the time we’ve known each other. I suppose I have time to tell you now. You’ve heard the stories about Discord, correct?”

“I have, but I thought they were only myths.”

“I thought so too but I started to find that certain aspects of those myths were true.”

“Certain aspects?”

“The myth I remember most is the one describing the alicorn massacre. In the Moxial year 2012, that would be 1031 by the Temporal calendar, the being known as Discord wreaked havoc upon the land. The great alicorns did their best to stop him but he simply turned them into changelings or split them into the three pony races of today. Finally, for reasons unknown, he simply stopped the war and went away, leaving only Temporus, Galaxis, Celestia--newly born, myself--newly born, and Starswirl--newly born. Temporus and Galaxis became the rulers of the land due to their rank as the last remaining alicorns. They took Starswirl and myself into their care, knowing that our mothers were their respective sisters.”

“How do you know this is true?”

“Because my own aunt and uncle were there.”

“But they could just be telling you that to suffice as an explanation of your parents’ absence.”

“Are you saying my parents might have died some other way? If you know something please tell.”

“Well, I wasn’t going to mention anything but I’ve heard rumors going around about a strange group known only as the Cult of Random Shady Nachos I. They have been said to send a single member to a household and leave with one or more family member.”

“So you’re saying that this Cult is some sort of group of foalnappers?”

“Actually, from what I’ve heard, whoever goes with them, goes willingly.”

“So you’re trying to tell me that my parents joined some secret society 1000 years ago?”

“I’m not saying for sure but it is a possibility.”

“It’s possible but I doubt it. I trust my aunt and uncle and if they say my parents died in the Discordian War than I believe them. How did you find out about this Cult before I did anyways?”

“Word travels fast in the farming community.”

“I suppose it does.”

“Aye. Well, I’m afraid I must get going or my wife might start to wonder where I ran off to.”

“Very well. Until next time old friend.”

Chapter 3--Princess Animia

“Well Animia, are you ready for your final lesson?” Animia’s teacher, a unicorn stallion named Wild Beast, asked her.

“I’ve been waiting for his since you stared training me,” the alicorn student replied.

“Good. Now, thus far you have been practicing the simple manner of calming a creature who has been set to a rage and taming a creature that is wild. However, there will be times when you come across a creature that will not willingly be tamed. In this situation you must perform the mind meld with that creature.”

“The mind meld? I wasn’t aware we were in some sort of science fiction novel.”

“Yes, it shares the same name as the practice in the science fiction novels but that is merely because magic researchers are not very good at coming up with original names. Now then, to perform this spell, you must become one with the beast. Your mind to its mind, your thoughts to its. Once you do this you will be as one and you will be in complete control of the beast. However, I must warn you of the dangers of this spell. While you are in the mind of another, your own body will remain stationary. If your body is killed while you are in another’s mind, you will cease to exist.”

“So if my body dies while I’m in the mind of a creature, then I die?”

“No, this will be much worse than dying. It will be as though you never existed.”

“So don’t do that. Alright, if you don’t have any other warnings then I’m ready to begin.”

“Your spirit is feisty as always, my dear. Now, I shall bring out the beast that I am going to have you meld with.” He whistled and a manticore came out of the nearby forest.

“A manticore? But you know I have always had trouble taming manticores.”

“Precisely why I have chosen him to be your final test. Not many know that manticores actually contain some amount of sentience. They may be unable to communicate with us verbally but they still understand every word we say. This particular manticore is a dear friend of mine. I’ve known him since I was little and he has always been a great deal of help to me. But I’m afraid that’s all I can tell you. In order for this to give the best results, you are to know as close to nothing about the beast as possible. The more you know, the easier it is to meld with him. It will be your task to learn everything there is to know about him while you are inside his mind and it will be his task to try to prevent you from gaining that knowledge. The more you learn about him, the more easily you will be able to control him. If you no nothing, you will not be able to control him at all; if you know everything, he will be at your will. You already have a slight advantage because you know that he is a dear friend of mine. I want you to try to use this knowledge against him. Use what you know about me to get inside his head. If you can control a manticore, you can control almost anything. Are you ready?”

“I’m ready.”

“Then I shall show you how to do the spell. I must offer another warning, this is a Level 5 spell so it will drain a good portion of your magic energy. Once you are inside, your own body will be down to about a quarter your magic energy. This means that should you have the need to return to your own body, it will be in a weakened state. Now that all the warnings are out of the way, let’s learn that spell.”He taught her the spell and she cast it and felt herself being pulled into the mind of the manticore.

“Animia, are you inside the manticore’s mind? If you can hear me, try to blink his eyes.”

Animia tried with all the force she could muster and made the manticore blink.

“Good, now until you learn more about the creature, that will be all you can do. What you need to do now is create an avatar for yourself inside his mind to wander around and learn about him. Go ahead and do this and blink twice when it’s done.”

She used all of the imagination power she had and created an avatar to wander through the manticore’s mind. She blinked twice to signal that she was ready.

“Good, it seems as though you’re already getting better. Now you need to wander through his mind. he will be throwing obstacles at you left and right so make sure you’re ready.”

Animia began to wander through the mind of the manticore but she couldn’t see anything. She started blinking ferociously to get her teacher’s attention.

“Ah, you must have noticed the first obstacle. It’s dark in there isn’t it. Remember, you are in the imaginary world, anything you think of will become reality while you are in there. Try to think of something to overcome the darkness. Blink at me if you encounter anymore problems.”

Animia thought for a second and then came up with an idea. She used her brain power to create a sun that shone over the landscape. She observed what looked much like Canterlot. She thought for a moment, Where in Canterlot would I go to find information? She thought and quickly realized that it was the library. She walked to where she knew the library to be but when she got there, it wasn’t there. She blinked some more to request assistance.

“Although the mind may look like a familiar scene, do not be fooled for the layout may be different. Try going through a door, you never know what you might find.”

Animia consented and decided to walk 20 paces, turn left and go through the first door she saw. Inside, she saw the manticore with a family. He had a mate and two kids, one girl and one boy.

“With each piece of information gained, you will be able to control more of the creature with more ease. Once you learn something, try to move a toe.”

Upon learning that the manticore had a family, she put forth her effort to wiggle its toe.

“Very good, you are progressing quickly. I’m going to leave you alone for now. I’ll only tell you which body part to attempt to move next. At this point you can move the eyelids and one toe at a time. Next, you should try to move a full paw.”

She continued to wander through the mind, overcoming obstacles, learning about the manticore, and controlling more and more of him. Eventually she had gained full control and the image of canterlot disappeared and was replaced by a control room of sorts. It had a window to see through the creature’s eyes and a full body suit to control his movements.

“Good job, Animia. You have gained full control of everything. It only took you 5 hours, that’s a new record for a first timer. You’ll find that the more times you do this, that faster it will go. Also, once you have gained total control of a creature once, you will be able to have full access at will. And remember, the more intelligent the creature is, the harder it will be to control it. Now, to return to your own mind, simple imagine an exit and walk through it.”

She did so and returned to her own mind.

“Now, do you have any questions?”

“How long can I control a creature?”

“That depends upon how much strength you have left once you reach the control room. In theory, you can control a creature indefinitely but you must remember to never leave your own body unattended. Furthermore, your own body would still require nutrients and eating with the creature’s body would not supply that so you would have to somehow give your own body the nutrients it needs.”

“You said that manticore have some amount of sentience, does that mean that if one desired, one could control a someone with full sentience?”

“You mustn’t speak of such things. Yes it is possible but the act of doing so is highly treacherous. Only one unicorn is known to have done so and he will forever be regarded as the most terrible pony ever to have existed. Controlling other sentient life would make someone immensely powerful. Even controlling one at a time, you could create an army out of fear of your power. Icy Blood had an army and it took the combined forces of every sentient life on the planet to stop him. However, if the need should arise, you could control a sentient lifeform.”

“I see. Well, thank you for teaching me everything.”

“Oh, please. It was a pleasure to teach you. I need some way of keeping myself occupied in my old age.”

“Old age? But you’re only 950.”

“Ah but you're forgetting that normal ponies only live to be 1000, unlike the alicorns who can be 3000.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot.”

“Don’t feel down, child. I may only live a third the life you do, but I’ve lived it to it’s fullest.”

“Well, thank you again, Wild Beast.”

“Hold on, aren’t you forgetting something?”

“What could I be forgetting?”

“As I recall, when I first agreed to mentor you, I promised that once you learned all that I can teach, I would give you an animal of your own to keep.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot all about that. So which one do I get?”

“That’s for you to decide, my dear. You can have any animal you wish.”

“Oh, thank you so much, but I don’t know which one to choose.” Animia looked at all the animals before her. “Which one of you wants to be my pet?” She watched as the most majestic phoenix she had ever seen leapt through the crowd of animals and landed right on her back. “Oh wow, I’ve never seen a phoenix like this one!”

“Ah, yes. She is quite the rarity. A pure-white phoenix is very rare to see. Its flame burns hotter and brighter than a regular phoenix, even hotter than dragon breath. They are also very loyal. They never leave the side of anyone they see as their friend. I think this little darling is the perfect pet for you.”

“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you! I promise to take good care of her. What’s her name?”

“She doesn’t have a name yet. Perhaps you’d like to give her one.”

“How about Ed?”

“...It’s a girl.”

“Oh, right. What about Taylor?”

“It seems a little too ordinary.”

“Oreo?”

“No thanks, I’m trying to cut out on sugar.”

She gave him a blank stare. “I meant as a name.”

“Oh, well I don’t think you should name her that.”

“Pablo?”

“Again, it’s a girl.”

“Blaze, Bonfire, Heat, Ember, Inferno, Tinder, Spark, Pyre, Phlogiston, Conflagration, Combustion, Luminous, Sauna, Saharra, Ezalb, Erifnob, Erifpmac, Taeh, Rebme, Onrefni, Rednit, Kraps, Skraps, Eryp, Notsigolhp, Alba, Noitargalfnoc, Noitsubmoc, Suonimul, Anuas, Arrahas, Erif, Fuego, Ogeuf, Feuer, Reuef, Mirajane, Miraj, Bob, Manny, Rex, Draco, Qadir, Qenehelo, Qimat, Quahhar, Quain, Quay, Quin, Quiqui, Quirino, Ignis, Char, Moltra, Rosie, Liz, Lisana, Anasil."

“My word that’s a long list. Of those, I like Alba and Ignis the most.”

“I kind of like them together. Alba Ignis.”

“That sounds like a wonderful name.”

“Come here Alba Ignis,” she called to the phoenix.

The bird came immediately to the call. “It seems she knows her master.”

“I don’t have mastership over pets. I consider all animals as friends. In any case, she seems to like her name.”

“Indeed. And she seems to like you as well.”

“That she does. Oh, I can’t thank you enough Wild Beast. I can’t wait to show my family on Saturday.”

“Why do you have to wait until Saturday to show them?”

“Because as I’m sure you know, my parents are very busy with their royal duties so we only have so much time to spend as a family. This Saturday is our family dinner that we had planned.”

“I see. Well, before you leave, I should tell you a few things about phoenix care. The first thing you need to know is that every once in a while, a phoenix will molt its feather and burst into flames to be reborn in the ashes. This is a normal process for a phoenix so you shouldn’t panic when it occurs. Furthermore, phoenixes are predatory birds and they prefer to hunt for their food. You’ll need to let her fly around to get her food. Lastly, regarding her flames, you may have already figured this out but a phoenix is able to control its flames including who they affect and who they do not. Thus, she may have flames while on your back but others should be careful when reaching to touch her unless they have already made friends with her.”

“I’ll be sure to remember all that. Thanks again,” she called as she left with her new best friend.

Chapter 4--Princess Floriana

“Master Wild Flower, I’m here for my lesson. Where are you?” Floriana called out as she entered the massive garden where her magic lessons took place.

Right in front of her eyes, she witnessed her master appear as if from nowhere. “Ah, Floriana. Is it that time already?” the unicorn mare asked her alicorn pupil.

“Yes, it is. Might I ask where you came from just now?”

“I came from the petal of that flower.”

“...How?”

“That’s what I’m going to teach you today. You’ve made tremendous progress with plant control but as with any control magic, it is essential that you know the subject inside and out to get the best results. Your sister learned this with my brother Wild Beast during her animal control teachings. However, animal and plant controls differ. To gain full control of an animal, one must learn everything about that animal via mind meld. To gain full control of a plant, however, requires you to shrink down to observe everything that happens within and without the plant. You must learn the internal processes that govern the plant’s life force as well as the external environment the governs the plant’s ecosystem. When I first took you on as my pupil, I told you that once you completed your studies, I would give you a plant of your own to keep as an everlasting control. Have you decided what plant you want?”

“I would like a large oak tree.”

“Ah, a good choice. The acorns make for wonderful projectiles and its trunk is one of the sturdiest of all trees. If it’s a large oak tree you want, then that is what your lesson will be on. Follow me.” The two mares walked through the garden until they reached the center where a massive oak tree stood. “Now, in order to fully understand everything that goes on in and around this oak tree, you need to shrink down to microscopic size and observe. Would you like to start with its environment or its internal processes?”

“Let’s start with the environment.”

“Very well. Before I teach you the shrinking spell, you will need some defense spells as well. The environment around a plant can often be dangerous so it is important to protect yourself from any threats you may encounter. A simple shield will work in a pinch but it shouldn’t be relied upon. The typical environment of an oak tree will include many animals that enjoy it’s acorns. If you encounter one of these creatures, it will likely be rather upset that you disturbed it. This is easily remedied by a simple Level 1 Stunning Spell. It renders the target unconscious for one hour.” She taught her student the spell and then went on to talk about the shrinking spell. “Now, the Size Spell is a little more complicated, a Level 3 to be precise. Additionally, your magic will weaken on the same scale as your body so it may be more difficult to perform magic. You should know that this Size Spell works in both directions so you simply need to use it again to return to your normal size.” She showed the princess how to perform the spell and set her forth to do it.

Upon casting the spell, Floriana found herself on an oak leaf. She tried to ask her teacher what to do next but Wild Flower couldn’t hear her.

She then heard her teacher’s voice saying, “You will need to perform a Level 1 Volume Spell in order to communicate with me.”

She cast the spell and asked again, “What should I do next?”

“You explore. I’ll be here if you have any questions.”

So that’s what Floriana did. She started walking along the leaf and quickly encountered a caterpillar. “I found a caterpillar, what do I do?”

“If it’s aggressive, you need to stun it and go around. If it’s apathetic, just walk around it.”

“It seems rather apathetic but it’s blocking the path.”

“Fly over it then, you do still have wings.”

“Oh yeah.” She flew over the caterpillar and continued her exploration. She came across various creatures and terrains until she finally decided that she knew everything there was to know about the outside of the oak tree. She returned to her normal size and turned off the Volume Spell to move on to the next part of the lesson. “I’m done exploring the outside.”

“Good, now try moving some parts of the tree. At this point, you should have control of half of the branches and all the leaves and acorns on those branches. If you recall, before today, you were only able to move the parts of a plant in simple ways but now, you should have full control over the parts. Try writing your name with the branches.”

Floriana twisted and contorted the branches that she had control of to spell out her signature, complete with a heart over the ‘i’ and a border around it.

“Very good! If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were showing off. Now for Phase 2. You will need the shrinking spell again but since you will be inside the tree, you’re going to need some way of breathing. Any ideas?”

“I’m thinking, a Level 4 Air Bubble Spell?”

“Precisely. Additionally, the immune system of the tree will likely reject you. How do you think you can make it see you as not a threat?”

“Hmm, typically I would use a Level 2 Pheromone Spell but it’s an immune system, not an animal. So, I would have to disguise myself as part of the tree. But how do I do that?”

“A Molecular Make-Up Spell. It’s a Level 7 spell but from what I understand, alicorns have more innate magical energy than regular ponies.”

“That’s true, but a Level 7 plus a Level 4 plus a Level 3? That’s equivalent to a Level 14!”

“I’m glad you can do basic arithmetic but I assure you, it shouldn’t be a problem. Alicorns have enough magical energy to perform up to a Level 30 spell--not that any exist. That’s thrice as much as the normal pony’s Level 10.”

“Wait, I just thought of something. If a normal pony can only perform up to a Level 10, how does a normal pony reach full control?”

“In parts. As you already know, it takes exactly one hour to regain the strength to perform one level of magic. Typically, a normal pony would cast the Size Spell and the Air Bubble Spell and fight through the immune system until his or her magic replenished itself enough to cast the Molecular Make-Up Spell. A second option would be to transfer magic from another pony. But that can be risky because it leaves the other pony in a weakened state.”

“I didn’t know you could transfer magic. How does that work?”

“It’s a spell that not many ponies know because of it’s danger. It’s a Level X spell which means the level depends on how much magic you transfer. What makes it so dangerous is that it’s difficult to regulate exactly how much magic is transferred so the caster often transfers too much, leaving him or herself vulnerable. I can’t teach you because I don’t know it myself. However, I strongly disadvise actively seeking a teacher unless you can find one who has mastered the regulation of the transfer.”

“Understood. Can we get back to the lesson now?”

“Of course. I’ll show you the Molecular Make-Up Spell and then you can go inside the tree.”

He showed her the spell and she cast all three of the necessary spells as well as the Volume Spell to communicate. “Ok, I’m in.”

“Good now just like before, you need to explore the tree and learn about the purpose of everything in it.”
Floriana explored the internal workings of the tree and learned all about constituent elements, pigments, plant hormones, photomorphogenesis, photoperiodism, and of course photosynthesis among other things. When she was done, she cancelled all the spells and returned to her normal size. “All done.”

“Amazing, inside and outside in only 9 hours! That’s a new beginner’s record.”

“But I’m sure that record doesn’t take alicorns into account due to the rarity of our race.”

“True but it’s still amazing. At any rate, you should now have full control of the tree. This includes the ability to uproot it but remember that it receives its nutrients from the soil so be sure to replant it at least thrice a day and water it at least once a day. Now then, why don’t you try it out?”

Floriana cast the Level 3 Control Spell on the tree and turned it into a very ornate throne for herself.

“Not bad,” her teacher praised. “Don’t forget that with full control you can also make it move from its current spot, change its size, and control its growth rate. Try something else.”

Floriana thought for a moment before working her magic to turn the tree into a small self-propelling cart complete with oak flowers for decoration. “What do you think?”

“Clever.” A few miles away, Clover felt a slight tingle, as though his title as the Cleverest Pony was in jeopardy.

“Careful with that word, you might set off Clover’s Clever Detector. He gets weird when other people are called clever.” Clover then relaxed and went to the pantry because he realized that the tingle was simply hunger.

“Well, in any case, you’ve completed all of the lessons I have for you. I congratulate you for graduating my class. As a reward, you get to keep this oak tree as promised.”

“Thank you, Wild Flower. I can’t wait to show my family at the family dinner this Saturday.”

“Well, Floriana, I’m afraid this is the last time I get to see you as a student. I am now proud to call you my equal and my peer. Feel free to stop by any time you like.”

“Until then.” Floriana waved good-bye as she left in her tree-cart.

Chapter 5--Princess Luna

“Come on Luna, it’s time to begin the night,” Celestia called to her younger sister.

“I am coming dear sister,” Luna replied. “Though I still fail to understand why we keep up this illusion that we, in truth, are in control of the sun and moon.”

“Haven’t Mother and Father told you? It’s to ensure our place as rulers of the kingdom.”

“Yes but why must we hold that dominating position? Would it not be more beneficial if the ponies were self-governed.”

They were in the halls on their way to the ceremonial balcony where they jumped into the air and pretended to change the day to night and back again.

“Perhaps, but to create a new form of government requires large amounts of time and planning. Otherwise it could easily fall into anarchy.”

“I suppose that makes sense. But why must I be the one in charge of the night while everyone else is sleeping?”

“Well, consider this: it would be quite odd for a midnight blue pony such as yourself to govern the day must as it would be unusual for a white pony such as I to govern the night. Also, I was born first so I got first choice.”

“That’s hardly fair but I suppose it makes sense.”

“Now then, shall we?”

They had arrived at the ceremonial balcony to perform their ritual. Below them were the many Canterlotians that had come out for the nightly news and to watch the ceremony.

Luna stepped forward to address the citizens. “Good evening, Canterlotians. As always, it brings me great pleasure to bring forth the night.” That’s a lie. “Without further ado, let us hear what my sister, our dear Princess Celestia has to say about the goings on in the nation.”

“Citizens, I am pleased to bring an end to yet another peaceful day in Equestria. As I am sure you all know, the Summer Sun Celebration is in just over a week. I hope you have all been getting plenty of sleep so you may take part in the annual tradition of staying up all night to watch the sunrise. And as always, you have no reason to fear the night as our dear Princess Luna is always watching over you. And now, as I have no more to say, we shall begin the night.”

They got into position and Celestia flew into the air as the sun setted and Luna flew into the air as the full moon rose. The citizens watched in awe as the ceremony progressed until finally the sun was down and the moon was up.

“Have a safe night everyone,” Luna said as ponies started filing out of the town center. The sisters went back inside and Luna wished Celestia a good night. “And once again, I’m alone at night. This is becoming a tiresome endeavor. If only there were some sort of technological advancement that I could use to occupy my time. Perhaps some sort of worldwide net of information with some locations for entertainment where one could access a number of quick-flip paintings or even play some sort of game. There would be places solely for information too where people could find information about anything they want to know about and others that already know about the subject could provide their knowledge. And it could all be accessed from a device that one could purchase and provide power to. The only rule to this Worldwide Interweb is that no one would be allowed to put any kind of sexual images or implications on it.” She turned around to notice that the captain of her royal guard was standing there. “Ah, Solar Flare. How long have you been standing there?”

“Long enough to hear your brilliant idea. You should submit it to the unicorn tower to see if they can make it happen,” he said.

“Well, I am glad someone appreciates my ideas. Now then, what is on the agenda for the night?”

“The usual.”

“And by that you mean go to the Shady Sneak, get drunk and pass out until morning?”

“Essentially, yes.”

“You know that we need to be careful, right? My parents know not about our relationship and I am almost certain there would be repercussions of some sort if they were to find out.”

“If they find out. All we have to do is keep it a secret.”

“For how long though? Certainly circumstances could arise that would cause them to find out.”

“Circumstances such as what?”

“Well, I am certain they would know something is awry if i were pregnant.”

“True, but what are the chances of that happening?”

She gave him a flat stare and said “This is us you are talking about.”

“Fair point. If only there were some sort of protective barrier that could prevent pregnancies even when the mare is in heat. Perhaps something that could be placed over the stallion’s phoenix to prevent the semen from entering the mare’s phoenix nest.”

“There is no need for euphemisms with me though your idea does seem like a good one. My only concern is that it might subtract from the pleasure that is to be had.”

“Perhaps, but in time, better models will be made to restore the pleasure and possibly even heighten it.”

“Well, in any case, it shouldn’t matter right now as I am not in heat but it is something to consider in the future. Shall we go then?”

“Indeed let’s.”

They walked through the streets of Canterlot before coming to a dark alley. It probably looked rather suspicious for two ponies to walk into a dark ally in the middle of the night but considering one of them was a princess and the other was the captain of her guard, the conspicuousness of the situation was probably lessened. As they came to the end of the alley, they approached a brick wall. Luna stuck her horn in a magically hidden hole in the wall and performed some magic. A door opened up in the wall to allow them to enter.

“Ah, Princess Luna, Captain Solar Flare,” the bouncer, Tiny, greeted them. “I was beginning to think our most loyal customers weren’t showing up tonight.”

“Tiny, I thought i told you that I do not like the use of formalities in here. This is a place where everyone is treated equally,” Luna said. “And besides, we would never miss Thirsty Thursday.”

“And my are we thirsty,” Solar Flare added. They walked up to the counter. “What’s the special for tonight, AC?”

“It’s the latest and greatest from my apple cellar. I’ve been working tirelessly to perfect my cider recipe and I think I’ve finally done it. You wanna try some?” the bartender, AC, asked.

“We shall each have a mug,” Luna said as she got her bit pouch out.

“Put your money away. You know the first drink is always free.” He gave them the drinks.

“To another good night,” Solar Flare said.

They toasted and downed the cider. “This is quite good,” Luna said. “What’s your recipe?”

“It’s a family secret,” AC said.

“I thought you said it was a new recipe.”

“Well, I’m making it a family secret. A recipe this good should only be shared among a select few. Imagine if everyone had the recipe. I’d be run out of business.”

“You make a valid point. Very well. Have us another round.”

And so they drank on and on until AC cut them off.

“Ah, c’m’n AC. W’re havin’ saw m’ch fun. Jus’ one m’re r’und,” Luna almost incoherently begged the bartender.

“I’m sorry, Luna but if I played favorites, I would be breaking the founding rule of this establishment. Everyone here is to be treated equally which means that I should partake equal judgement upon when to cut them off and you two are most certainly at your limit. Besides, sunrise is in a couple hours and you need to be at least somewhat sober to perform the ceremony.”

“Ugh, fawn. ‘m g’nna tuk a nap. Walk me up wh’n it’s tom t’ do it.”

“Will do.”

And with that Luna passed out next to Solar Flare who had been out for the past ten minutes.

After about 3 hours, Luna was rudely awoken with a bucket of cold water. “Ah! That’s cold,” Luna said when she woke up.

“Good, it’s supposed to be,” AC said.

“Another drunk night?”

“Yep.”

“Had to be cut off?”

“Yep.”

“Tried to convince you to get us another round?”

“Yep.”

“Passed out shortly after?”

“Yep.”

“Time to end the night?”

“Yep.”

“Very well. Come now Solar Flare.” The guard captain, however, was still asleep. “Another bucket, AC.”

“Already on it.” He dumped a second bucket on Solar Flare and he finally woke up.

“Come now, we are late for the morning ceremony.”

“Wait, what happened?” Solar Flare asked.

“The usual. Now come.”

They left the bar and galloped to the castle.

“You're late sister,” Celestia said as Luna entered the ceremonial anteroom.

“Another long night,” Luna explained.

“I sometimes wonder what you do all night.”

“Good luck finding out. You have to know the spell to get in and that is something only a member could teach you.”

“I haven’t the slightest idea what you are talking about.”

“That is the idea.”

“Well, I suppose it will be one of those things that I never find out about you. No matter, shall we?”

“Yes, let’s.”

They walked out onto the balcony and performed the ceremony. Or at least they tried to but as usual, Luna was a little shaky on the take off.

“Why can’t you ever take off straight in the morning?” her elder sister asked.

“It has to do with where I go every night. Which means, you will likely never find out.”

“Very well. I shall begin the morning news so you can get some well needed rest.” She walked to the edge of the balcony to address the citizens. “Good morning, fellow Canterlotians. I hope you all slept well. It brings me great pleasure to bring forth another glorious day. And now, let us see what my dear sister Princess Luna has to say about last night.”

Luna stepped forward. “As per the norm, it was a rather uneventful night. I detected no disturbances so I am pleased to announce that nothing is amiss as of yet. I hope you all had a good night. I know I did. Now go forth and perform your daily tasks. And as always, stay safe.” And with that, the Canterlotians began filing out to do their daily duties. “And now, I shall go to bed.”

“Sleep well, sister.”

They left to their respective places as another day began in Equestria.

Chapter 6--Princess Celestia

“Another beautiful Friday morning,” Celestia said to her guard captain Moonlight Darkness.

“Indeed. What shall we do today, Princess?” Moonlight asked.

“Well, with the annual Summer Sun Celebration in a week from tomorrow, I was thinking we could start getting preparations ready for that.”

“That seems reasonable.”

“Good. Do you have the list?”

“Of course. Item 1: Banquet Preparations. Do you know who to put in charge of the food?”

“Hmm, normally I would put Chef Le Grande in charge of food but he’s requested the week off to spend with his family. And I don’t quite trust the Sous Chef enough to cater such a large event as this. Perhaps Starswirl knows someone.”

“Shall we go see him then?”

“I think so.”

They went to Starswirl’s workshop to find that he wasn’t there.

“Either he’s perfectly mastered a camouflaging spell, or he’s not here,” Celestia mused.

“Look, there’s a note,” Moonlight pointed out.

Celestia lifted the note and read it, “Went jewelry shopping. Be back later. Starswirl. It’s dated today.”

“I didn’t know Duke Starswirl wore jewelry.”

“He doesn’t. This is just his way of letting me know that he went to visit his fiancee without letting anyone else that may be looking for him know that he has a fiancee.”

“The Duke is engaged?”

“My point exactly. Come on, I know where he is.” She led her guard captain to Fine Jewels and Metals, Sapphire Silver’s shop. “Iron Chain, how are you today?”

“P-princess Celestia? I’m doing well, though I must admit this is quite a surprise seeing you here?”

“Even royalty needs a little exercise every now and again. But more to the point, I am searching for my cousin Duke Starswirl.”

“Ah, yes. He and Sapphire are in the back likely discussing private matters.”

“Could you take me to them?”

“Of course, Princess.”

He led them to the back room and right as they walked in, Sapphire said to Starswirl, “I’m pregnant.”

Everyone froze and the combined realization of Sapphire’s pregnancy and the presence of each other. Iron Chain broke the silence with the obvious statement of, “Awkward.”

“Well, congratulations Starswirl and Sapphire,” Celestia said.

“Is this why you wanted to talk to me?” Starswirl asked Sapphire.

“Yes, and of course you are the father.”

“I’ll leave you four alone,” Iron Chain said as he went back to the front counter.

“Well, Starswirl, I am sure you will be a great father,” Celestia said. “But I came here to ask you something.”

“Well, I’m still slightly in shock by this new bit of information but go ahead and ask your question.”

“I was wondering if you knew anyone that would be good for catering the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“Well, my friend Cinna might be open that weekend. She’s the head chef at Pino’s if you want to ask her.”

“Very well. Thank you cousin and good luck with fatherhood.”

“Yeah…”

Celestia and Moonlight Darkness left to go to Pino’s. Upon arrival, the hostess greeted them. “Princess Celestia and Captain Moonlight Darkness. Welcome to Pino’s. Table for two?”

“Actually, we need to talk to the management if you don’t mind, Sweet,” Celestia said.

“Of course, Princess. Though I’m surprised you know my name.” She started leading them to the back to talk with the manager.

“It is a ruler’s duty to know the names of all her subjects.”

“Well, here we are.” She opened the door and Celestia and Moonlight walked into the room.

“Princess Celestia,” the restaurant owner, Pino, said. “To what do I owe the honor?”

“Good morning, Pino. I am looking for someone to cater the upcoming Summer Sun Celebration and my cousin Duke Starswirl suggested your restaurant and more specifically your head chef Cinna.”

“Well, we’d be happy to cater the Celebration and I would insist on Cinna being the main cook at the event.”

“Splendid. And rest assured that you will be greatly compensated for this.”

“Thank you, Princess. I’ll go and tell Cinna right away.”

They all left to do what they needed to do. “What’s next on the list, Moonlight?”

“Item 2: Weather. We need to assign a pegasus to keep the sky clear for the Celebration.”

“A pegasus? Maybe Luna knows someone.”

“But isn’t she sleeping?”

“That’s true but I could visit her in the dream world. Moonlight, I need you to put me to sleep once we get back to the castle.”

“Of course.”

They walked back to the castle and went to Celestia’s bedroom. Moonlight casted a sleep spell as instructed and Celestia fell asleep.

Celestia was in an open field when she heard a voice. “I’m coming back,” it said.

“You again,” she said. “Who are you?”

“Now, now, Celestia. You know I can’t answer that. That would spoil the surprise.”

“When are you coming back then?”

“Oh about 250 years or so.”

“What are you planning?”

“Ah, now there’s the million-dollar question.”

“What’s a dollar?”

“An old form of currency used about 6 billion or so years ago by a race known as humans.”

“How do you know this?”

“Because I was there.”

“Which returns me to the question: who are you?”

“You’ll find out in due time. But as I recall, you needed to speak with your sister. Allow me to send you to the dreamscape then.”

Before she knew what happened, she was in the blackness of the dreamscape. “I’ll have to deal with that voice later,” she mused to herself. “Now then, let’s find Luna’s dream. If I recall, all I have to do is think about her and her dream will appear in front of me.” She began thinking about Luna but nothing happened. “That’s odd. Logic would dictate that this means she isn’t asleep. But what would she be doing if not sleeping? I suppose I’ll have to wake up and see. Now if I could just remember how to wake up on command.”

“Allow me,” the voice said.

Celestia woke up to see Moonlight waiting for her. “What did you find out?” he asked.

“I found out that Luna is not sleeping right now. Let us go and see why.” They went to Luna’s room and saw Solar Flare knelt down and holding a ring box open. Celestia put her hoof to her face and asked no one in particular, “Why do I keep walking into moments like this?”

“It might help if you knock before entering a room,” Moonlight advised.

“Well, Solar Flare, I will marry you so long as my parents will allow it but before we ask them, I need to deal with my invasive sister here. May I help you, Tia?”

“Um, my apologies for barging in. I was just wondering if you knew any pegasi that would be good at keeping the sky clear for the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“Hmm, I can’t think of anyone right away.”

“What about Tiny?” Solar Flare chimed in.

“I suppose he could work. I forget that he is a pegasus because he acts more like an earth pony.”

“Where can I find Tiny?” Celestia asked.

“I suppose I have no choice but to admit to you where I’ve been going every night. There’s an alleyway between Pino’s and Fashion Fancy Fabric. At the end of this alley is a brick wall and in the center of this wall is a magically hidden hole. Stick your horn in the hole and cast an unconcealment spell to reveal the door to the Shady Sneak. Tiny is the bouncer there.”

“Thank you, Luna. I’ll let you two get back to your business.” They left to go to the Shady Sneak. “It seems we’re going to have a rather full table tomorrow night,” Celestia said as they walked.

They arrived at the brick wall and Celestia found the hole and performed the spell in it to reveal the door.

“Celestia, Moonlight Darkness. This is unexpected,” the bouncer said.

“I imagine so. You must be Tiny,” Celestia said.

“I am.”

“Would you mind telling me why you aren’t addressing us with our titles?”

“Ah, of course. I’m forgetting to do my job properly. Welcome to the Shady Sneak Pub and Grill. Please enjoy yourself and be sure to adhere to our number 1 rule: everyone here is treated equal.”

“Everyone is treated equal?”

“That’s right. It’s our founding motto.”

“I bet I can guess who the founder was. In any case, we came here to request your assistance in keeping the sky clear for the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“Sure, I’ll help. But I’ll need to find someone to fill in for me.”

“I’m sure that won’t be a problem.” They turned to leave. “Oh and one more question. How did you get in here if you’re a pegasus?”

“Feather recognition. Each race has its own way of opening the door, you just have to know how.”

They left without another word. “What’s next on the list?”

“Item 3: Decoration. Any ideas?”

“I think decor is best handled as a tag team between a couple of ponies.”

“Who did you have in mind?”

“Tailored Moon and Sapphire Silver.”

“Isn’t Sapphire Silver--?”

“The owner of Fine Jewels and Metals? Starswirl’s fiancee and newly discovered foalmomma? Yes, her. Let’s go.”

They fled to Fashion Fancy Fabric first to find the fashionista friend of the family.

“Princess Celestia, it’s always a pleasure to serve an old friend. How may I be of assistance?” the shop owner asked when they arrived.

“Well, I’ve been looking for someone to be in charge of the decor for the upcoming Summer Sun Celebration and of course you were the first person to come to mind, along with another. If you wouldn’t mind working as a team, I would greatly appreciate your help.”

“Who is the other?”

“Sapphire Silver.”

“Well, why didn’t you say so? I’d be glad to work with Sapph on the decor.”

“Good now we just need to talk to Sapphire about it. Thank you Tailored Moon.”

They left and were on their way to Fine Jewels and Metals when Moonlight asked, “So, how are you going to go about this?”

“The same way I handle anything. A good ruler must remain calm and collected when dealing with uncomfortable situations.”

They arrived at the shop and Iron Chain was at the front desk again. “Good afternoon, Princess. What brings you back here?”

“Is it afternoon already? We’ll have to get some lunch soon. But right now, I’m looking for Sapphire Silver.”

“You just missed her. She and Starswirl went out to lunch.”

“You know, for a secret relationship, they’re rather public about it. Very well, I wouldn’t want to interrupt another private moment so I’ll just leave you with a message. Tell her that I would like her to work in conjunction with Tailored Moon to create the decorations for the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“Yes, Princess. Anything else?”

“That’ll be all. Thank you Iron Chain.” They left the shop to continue their planning. “What’s next on the list, Moonlight?”

“Music, it’s the last one.”

“Good. I can think of who should be in charge of music while we get some lunch. So, where should we eat?”

“I’m in the mood for Coltalian.”

“That sounds good, let’s go to Pino’s then.”

They walked to the restaurant and Moonlight said, “It feels like we’ve been walking in circles all day.”

“That’s because we have been.”

“Princess Celestia, Captain Moonlight Darkness. Welcome back. Do you need to talk with Pino again?” the hostess greeted them.

“No, Miss Pie. We’re here to eat this time,” Celestia said.

“Of course. Table for two?”

“Yes.”

“Follow me to your table then.” she led them to a table that was clearly reserved for high society guests. “A server will be with you in a moment.” She left them to look at the menu.

“So have you thought about who to put in charge of the music?” Moonlight asked.

“I haven’t the slightest idea. Perhaps our server will have some ideas.”

“Good idea. Ah, pomyani chorta.”

“Good afternoon, my name is Lemon Frosting and I’ll be your server today. Can I get you started with some drinks?” the server, a yellow earth pony stallion with creamy white hair said as he came to their table.

“I’ll have a glass of Moscato d’Asti,” Celestia said.

“I’ll just have an iced tea,” Moonlight added.

“Of course. Anything else?”

“I was wondering if you had any suggestions as to whom I should put in charge of the music for the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“Music, huh? You should talk to Oratorio over at the Concerto di Canterlot.”

“Very well. We shall head there after our meal.”

Lemon Frosting went to get their drinks.

“So, you seemed rather flustered after coming out of the dreamscape earlier. Any reason why?” Moonlight asked.

“Well, for the past few nights, I’ve had a recurring dream. I’m in a wide-open field and there’s a voice.”

“What does the voice say?”

“It’s different each time. Sometimes it says my name, other times it just says ‘soon.’ But this time it held a bit of a conversation.”

“What did it say?”

“It said, ‘I’m coming back.’ It was more distinct this time and I could tell it was undoubtedly a male’s voice. I asked who he was and he said it would spoil the surprise if he told me. He said he was coming back in 250 years. Of course I asked what he was planning which he said was the million-dollar question. I asked what a dollar was and he explained that it was a currency used by something called humans 6 billion years ago explaining that he was there during that time.”

“Hmm, sounds like it could be important. I suggest you talk to a prophet or even the Duke might know something.”

“Perhaps. Oh, look. Here come our drinks.”

They got their drinks and ordered their meals, carrying on in idle conversation as they ate.

“That was a good lunch, I needed that. So, shall we be off to Concerto di Canterlot?” Celestia asked.

“I believe so.”

They walked across town to the grand concert house where none other than Oratorio himself greeted them. “Ah, Princess Celestia, I’ve been expecting you. Lemon Frosting sent a message saying you’d be coming this way and here you are. So, how may I help you?”

“We were wondering if you’d be so kind as to arrange the musical accompaniment for the Summer Sun Celebration this year.”

“I’d be honored. This will be an event to add to my memoir for my posterity to read.”

“Yes, I’m sure your descendents will be proud. Thank you for doing this for me, Oratorio. We’ll be off now.”

They went back to the castle where a random maid was waiting for them. “Princess, a stallion has arrived as is refusing to leave until he speaks with you,” she reported. “We attempted to force him to leave but he is somehow able to evade capture. I sent him to your sitting room.”

“Very well. I shall speak to him. Did he leave a name?”

“He just said to call him the Doctor.”

“A Doctor? I wonder what this could be about.” They started walking toward Celestia’s sitting room.

“I don’t know. Perhaps he’s a scientist coming to report some new findings,” Moonlight suggested.

“Perhaps, but that seems unlikely. In any case, we’ll find out soon enough.”

They continued walking until they reached the sitting room. Celestia opened the door to reveal a brown earth pony stallion with long brown hair in a messy style. He had an hourglass cutie mark and he was holding a strange device pointed at the door.

Moonlight stepped forward to protect Celestia. “Get back Princess. This is clearly a dangerous pony and that must be an undocumented weapon.”

“Oh I am dangerous but I’m not a pony and nor is this a weapon,” the stallion said.

“You must be the Doctor,” Celestia said.

“That I am, Celestia. That I am.”

“That’s Princess Celestia to you, sir,” Moonlight corrected.

“And Moonlight Darkness. I should have you know that I need not address her by her title because she is not my princess. I serve no one but myself. Though I’ll admit I am rather partial to the inhabitants of this world, I am still above all of them. And I would greatly appreciate it if this conversation was private, if you don’t mind leaving.”

“I stay by Princess Celestia’s side at all times.”

“Moonlight, wait outside please,” Celestia said. “I can handle myself with him.”

“Yes, Princess.” He left and the Doctor pointed his device at the door and it emitted a strange sound.

“What is that and what did you just do?”

“Sonic screwdriver. I just sound proofed the room so your little body guard can’t overhear our conversation. So, why don’t you go ahead and ask the question that’s been on your mind since you first heard my name?”

“And what question might that be?”

“The one that everyone always asks when they first meet me.”

“The only question I can think of to ask is Doctor Who?”

“That’s the one. Unfortunately I can’t tell you the answer. My real name is too powerful to tell just anyone. I’ve only ever told two people and one of them forced me.”

“Who would those people be?”

“My wife and more importantly, a human known as Síor, or at least that’s what he goes by.”

“A human? I’ve heard that word before.”

“I know you have. At this point in your life, you’ve heard that word exactly once before this instant.”

“How do you know that?”

“This is not the only time I’ve made an appearance in your life. And any time I become a recurring presence in someone’s life, I always make sure I know everything I need to know about them. I was present at your birth and I was present at your death.”

“How is this possible?”

“Put simply, I’m a time traveller. Some call me the savior of worlds, others refer to me as the ever-present warrior, but I prefer to be called the Doctor. And you might be wondering who my patients are. More precisely, my patients are not people but rather events in time that need someone like me. And there is a very large event in time revolving around you, Síor, and a being known as Discord.”

“Discord?”

“You’ll find out who he is pretty soon. He’s the one who’s been talking to you in your dreams. Right now, there’s nothing you can do about him but in a couple hundred years, you’ll be fighting him and I’ll show up again as well.”

“Why are you here if I can’t do anything yet?”

“I just thought I might introduce myself so you know who I am in the future. I only have one more stop in your timeline shortly before your second battle with Discord. I came here to give you this warning. I shall see you again Celestia. Until then, I’m afraid I can tell you no more.” He whistled and a strange blue box began to appear.

“What is that?”

“You’ll find out soon enough. I’ll be taking my leave now.” He stepped inside the box and it disappeared again.

“Well, that was interesting. I suppose there’s nothing I can do now except wait for events to come. Moonlight, you can come in now.” He didn’t enter the room. “Moonlight?” She opened the door to see Moonlight waiting right outside. “Didn’t you here me calling?”

“No Princess, I didn’t.”

“Hmm, I guess the Doctor forgot to remove the sound proofing. I think I’ll leave it though. It could be useful in the future.”

“Speaking of the Doctor, where did he go?”

“He left in a strange blue box that he summoned with a whistle.”

“Do you have any idea how crazy that sounds?”

“I’m sure it sounds very crazy but it’s what happened. But enough about that, isn’t it about time we had our tea?”

“Of course Princess, but what did he have to say?”

“Oh, nothing much. Just various things about the future.”

“I see. And you don’t find that the least bit suspicious?”

“In the 1050 years that I’ve been alive, I’ve learned that you should always be suspicious of everything and everyone but with that suspicion, you must also keep an air of curiosity otherwise you might never hear bits of information that could save your life.”

“Wiser words have never been spoken, Princess.”

“Yes they have, you’ve just never heard or read them. But enough talk, let us have our tea.”

“Right away, Princess.”

Chapter 7--Family Dinner

“Calling all members of the Royal Family of Equestria and guests. The time has come to begin the monthly Royal Family Dinner. Please report to the Royal Dining Hall in 10 minutes.”

The announcement rang out from the tallest tower of the castle where a hautcolt was positioned with a very large hollowed-out horn. Each dinner attendee began to walk toward the dining hall, each with their respective happenings in tow. They each sat around the long table with King Temporus at the head and each royal in descending order of importance from him with his wife Queen Galaxis at his right hoof. Once the ten attendees were seated, Chef Le Grande brought out the meal. “One large veggie turkey with bread stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, croissants, and my special gravy. And to drink we have my finest homemade Huckleberry Wine with huckleberries straight from Idahoof. Bon Apetit!”

Temporus began carving the veggie turkey and said, “It would seem as though you all have had quite interesting things happen to you recently. Why don’t we share starting with Clover and working our way up to Celestia?”

“Very well, uncle,” Clover said. “I haven’t much to share but I have been working on enhancing my mental acuity with the help of Spud.”

“Ah yes, how is Spud? I haven’t seen him in a while.”

“His farm is as productive as ever. He’s been working on a new flavor for his home-baked potato chips and he promised that we would be the first to try them when they’re done.”

“Excellent. What about you, Starswirl? I see you’ve brought a mare to dine with us. Care to explain?”

“Of course,” Starswirl said. “Everyone, this is Sapphire Silver, my fiancee.”

“Fiancee? I was unaware that you were even dating anyone.”

“We’ve been dating for almost a year, you’re majesty,” Sapphire said. “And Sunday night Swirly proposed to me at Pino’s.”

“I see. And there’s no need for titles, my dear. Have you set a date for the wedding yet?”

“Well, we want to have it before the foal arrives--”

“Foal? Are you saying that you are not only engaged to my nephew, but you are pregnant as well?”

“That is correct.”

“Am I correct to assume that Starswirl is the father?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Good. When is the child due?”

“It’s due around Hearth’s Warming.”

“Then we shall have an Autumnal Wedding. Do you have a preference for which month?”

“I would prefer to have it in November so as to not be too close to Nightmare Night.”

“Very well. I will see to it that a Grand Royal Wedding is prepared for November. Until then, I congratulate you on your marriage and you pregnancy.”

“Thank you.”

“Next would be Animia. What have you done recently?”

“Well Father,” the young princess began, “I’ve completed my studies of animal control magic and as a reward, Wild Beast let me keep this phoenix. Her name is Albus Ignis.”

“A white phoenix. That is quite the rarity, darling,” Galaxis said.

“Floriana, what do you have to share?” Temporus asked.

“Well,” Floriana said, “as you may have noticed from my chair, I’ve completed my studies of plant control magic and Wild Flower gave me this oak as a reward. I can make it do anything I want so long as I plant it thrice daily and water it once daily.”

“That’s wonderful! All my little girls are growing up. Luna, you’re next. You’ve brought your guard captain to dinner, is there a threat in security?”

“No, it’s nothing like that,” Luna said. “To be honest, I was certain our announcement would be the only one of its kind but it seems cousin Starswirl beat us to the punch. Solar Flare and I are also engaged though not with the added bonus of pregnancy.”

“Hmm, I am unsure how to go about this. I am pleased that you have found love but it is rather unheard of for a Princess to marry her guard captain. I will allow it but don’t let your love interrupt your duties. When would you like your wedding to be?”

“Of course, Father. We decided that we would like a Nightmare Night Wedding because most people would be awake anyways.”

“Very well. We shall have it planned. And finally Celestia, how go your preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration?”

“Quite well, though I learned that I need to knock before entering a private area,” Celestia said. “I walked into a couple of awkward moments in my search for some people to cover the necessary preparations.”

“Yes, I’ve done that a few times myself. Knocking is a very important thing to do. Well, now that you’ve all shared your experiences, your mother and I have a few things we need to tell you.”

“That’s right,” Galaxis said. “First of all, Celestia, we are pleased to announce your betrothal to White Feather, Prince of Gryphonia.”

“Betrothal?” Celestia asked.

“Oh come now,” Temporus said. “You knew that as the eldest, you were destined to be betrothed unless you found a mate by age 1000. As you are now almost 1050, this betrothal is overdue.”

“But why White Feather? Griffins only live to be 1000 and he’s already 525. I will long outlive him.”

“Celestia, you should know that betrothed marriages are mostly made to conjoin kingdoms. And our kingdom needs the alliance of the griffins to help us in our times of need.”

“Very well. When is the wedding set to be?”

“In approximately a year, directly following your birthday. That should be plenty of time for you to get to know him better. He and his father King Silver beak will be attending the Summer Sun Celebration so you can meet him then. Now, for bigger news. As you all know, the Discordian War caused a great amount of destruction and Discord’s influence has yet to be extinguished. Many people were corrupted by his evil. We have done our best to quarantine them in an island in the south that we have called Tartaros but some have escaped our grasp. The most notable entity is a being known as Tirek. He lives by eating the magical power of others. Now, you know that after the Discordian War, magic was limited to the spells that only unicorns and alicorns are able to use. This makes it much harder to be used for evil. However, that is not to say that it is only unicorns and alicorns that have magic. Magic is innate within all creatures but most don’t utilize their magic knowingly. Tirek is able to eat the magic that resides in even the smallest, most insignificant creature. This is why you must use extreme caution if you ever encounter him. He may be using a disguised name so be sure to watch out for anything that might be an anagram; villains always like to use anagrams. Furthermore, I have set our top researchers to looking for a way to stop him and any other threats that may come in time. Once something is found, I will need volunteers to obtain the necessary protection. Until then, be wary of anyone you don’t know. Dinner is now adjourned.”

They all left to carry out their respective duties as they thought hard about whether or not to volunteer for the task ahead.

Chapter 9--The Adventure Begins

Author's Note

https://docs.google.com/document/d/193p-SL0LJM7IuaI5rvXpHCYjpxvVln6LZ6Nx4X-VgVc/edit?usp=sharing

Also, does anyone even use the Google Docs version or am I just wasting my time? Comment if you think the Google Docs should stay.

Chapter 9--The Adventure Begins

250 years had passed with little event. Temporus and Galaxis were getting up in years but they were still running the nation as professionally as always. Celestia had married White Feather and they had yet to attempt the awkwardness that would be cross-special procreation. Solar Flare and Lunar Dust had retired at the ripe old age of 950. Luna’s and Solar Flare’s marriage slowly fell apart after they realized that their respective duties could not be given their fullest attention when they were spending too much time together. The young Flagra had grown to be a beautiful young filly. The Flagra who had come from the future for yet-to-be-seen reasons had reached middle age and had gotten into a relationship with Clover who was 320 years her minor. And Starswirl and Sapphire were living peacefully in their own little tower as Starswirl slowly went insane through his work… But that’s not important yet. What is important is that Temporus and Galaxis had called everyone together for an important meeting.

There was various chatter as everyone entered the war room where the meeting was to take place, all about what could possibly be happening to warrant an ‘important’ meeting. “Quiet, everyone,” the king said as he took command. The room grew silent and he continued, “I’m sure you’re all wondering why I gathered you here. As many of you will recall, the demon centaur known as the self-proclaimed ‘Lord’ Tirek has taken a very quiet course of action in the past couple of centuries. However, our sources tell us that he is coming out from the shadows and is now consuming magic at a faster pace. Coincidentally, the sages in the newly-founded Unicorn Tower have found evidence of some mystical items known as the Stones of Power that are said to be able to grant any wish of the users so long as their wishes are the same. I should note that the use of these stones by a single person is highly disadvised and should only be done as a last resort. The Queen and I cannot be the one’s to retrieve the Stones because we must fulfill our duties here in Canterlot. Therefore, we need volunteers who are willing to adventure into the far reaches of our nation and possibly even beyond to find the mythical Stones. We also need volunteers who are willing to dedicate their time to being a contact here in Canterlot that our traveling group may reach to ask for assistance. Celestia, Luna, I’m sorry to deprive you of an adventure but I’m afraid that you two must stay here as you each serve important roles in the wellbeing of the nation.”

“Ani and I will go in search of the Stones,” Floriana said.

“And Flagra and I would like to accompany them,” Clover added.

“Very well,” Temporus said. “Now we just need someone to be the researcher and contact.”

“I’ll do it,” Starswirl said. “I have to stay here and take care of a family anyways so I might as well make use of my time.”

“Splendid. Starswirl, you should get right on researching the Stones as well as any new spells that might assist the traveling group on their journey. Meanwhile, Clover, Flagra, Floriana, and Anima, your adventure begins at dawn. Good luck.” The meeting was adjourned and everyone left to do what was needed.

The next day, around noon, Clover, Flagra, and Animia were still trying to get Floriana out of bed.

“I don’t understand how she can sleep so late,” Animia mused. “It’s not like there’s a magical book with hilarious life stories and strange thoughts written by people during the early hours of the morning the continually renews itself when someone writes another life story or strange thought to keep her up all night.”

“That sounds like both the worst and best thing that could ever exist,” Clover said in awe. “I would imagine that if such a thing existed, millions of people would use it and they would be unable to stop using it even long enough to use the toilet.”

“That is a very weird thought. You’re weird. Don’t be weird,” Flagra said as Floriana finally started to stir.

“Alright, alright, I’m getting up,” she mumbled as she sat up in her bed before walking over to her bathroom. After some time and the sound of a flush, the rest of the group waited for her to come out.

After a good ten minutes, Flagra finally knocked on the door and asked, “Hey Flo, you alright in there?”

They heard the door unlock and Floriana came out of the bathroom saying, “Could you all just give me a moment? It takes time to look this beautiful.” As she said this, her mane looked like someone had combined the wind of a tornado with the static of a lightning storm and the spiralling wetness of a hurricane and threw it on her head. And just to add to this statement, she was eating toast and if was not very flattering.

“I can imagine it does,” Animia said with a flat face. “I’d estimate about 12 hours of combined rolling around trying to get comfortable and rolling around in your sleep.”

“I would rebuke that but it’s sadly true,” Floriana said as she got another brush stuck in her mane. “Could one of you please help me?”

Clover didn’t think twice before summoning a washtub and dropping it on her head followed by enough water to fill said washtub. “Whoops,” he said, “The water was supposed to be inside the washtub.”

“Yes, because that makes it better,” Flagra said sarcastically.

“Hey, it does the job doesn’t it?”

“At least my mane is flat but now my toast is all soggy,” Floriana said.

“Suck it up, we should have left 5 hours ago.”

“I have a question,’ Flagra said. “When did we all become teenagers?”

“...You’ve been living with us for 250 years and you’re just now realizing that we do what we want when we’re not around civilians? I question your awareness…”

“Anyways,” Animia piped up, putting a break on the crazy train, “We should get going. The only Stone we know the location of is in Trottingham and the last boat leaves in ten minutes.”

“We’re taking a boat all the way to Trottingham?” Floriana asked flabbergasted.

“How else are we supposed to get there?” Clover replied.

“We could fly.”

“Except not all of us have wings.”

“Why don’t you have wings? Your parents were alicorns so it would make sense for you have wings. Same with Starswirl.”

“I think the most logical explanation is because we have to gain our wings through mastery of our skills and it’s impossible to master something that will always be incomplete. Another theory is that we’re all just characters in some lonely guy’s crazy story and if Starswirl and I were to have wings then it would mess up one of his most fundamental structure points.”

“I think that the first explanation definitely makes more sense.”

“And as we’re having this conversation, the amount of time we have to get to the docks is decreasing. We now have less time to get there than it actually takes to get there,” Animia pointed out.

“Relax, sis. We can use Old Oakie as a boat. His leaves would make a beautiful sail.”

“Aye, but we haven’t a captain or anyone who knows anything about boats.”

“I know quite a bit about boats,” Flagra said. “I spent large portions of my childhood on an airship so there was little to do but learn how to operate one.”

Clover, Animia, and Floriana all turned to her and said at all at once, “What’s an airship?”

“You’ll find out when you’re older.” She then thought about that statement and said, “Oh...wait...nevermind.” and then proceeded to pretend as though that awkward moment had never happened. “Anyways, point is, I know how to pilot a ship.”

“Well,” Clover said, “you can be the Helmsmare, I shall be the Captain, Floriana shall be the navigator and Animia can be our cook. It’ll be a skeletal crew but we’ll make it work. We can always find more crewmen if we need.”

“Are we becoming pirates? is that what’s happening right now?”

“More or less. except without all the stabbing and stealing.”

“A’ight. I’m coo’ wi’ dat.”

“...I haven’t the slightest what you just said…”

“You’ll figure it out in due time.”

“What?”

“Nevermind. Lets go on an adventure!”

The rest of them just screamed, “Yeah!” and they all ran to the docks to begin what they would soon realize was the adventure of their lives.

Chapter 10--Pirates

The first night at sea, while a little rocky from the waves, went with little problem. After figuring out the best way to cook on a living boat without causing harm to said boat, Animia had made a good dinner for everyone. After Flagra set the ship into magical autopilot and showed Floriana how to adjust the course if necessary, everyone went to bed except Floriana who would stay up to navigate by stars.

“Good mornin’, Navigator Floriana,” Clover said as he came out of his quarters.

“Good morning, Captain Clover,” she replied.

“Wha’ be our current location?”

“By my calculations and according to our map, we are about 22 nautical miles south of Neightucket. Also, why are you talking like that?”

“If I be goin' t' be a cap'n, don't ye reckon I should natter like one?”

“You make a good point. Just don’t expect the rest of us to start talking like that.”

“Fair enough. Now, if ye wish t' stay awake fer grub, then ye may but otherwise, ye should go t' bed.”

“I think I’ll stay for a little breakfast.”

“Mighty well, go wake up yer sister ‘n Flagra then.”

“Aye aye, Captain.” She went to do just that. “Ani, our good old captain told me to wake you up so you could make us breakfast.”

“Of course, sister,” Animia replied as she came out of her quarters already ready for the day. “One round of eggs and toast coming right up.” She started walking to the kitchen.

“How are you ready so quickly?” Floriana asked as she followed.

“I wake with the sun as I often wish you did.”

“Well, now I need to be awake at night to properly navigate with the stars. Thus, I must wake as the sun sets.”

“That is true. Will you be joining us for breakfast?”

“Yes, I haven’t eaten since my midnight meal so a little breakfast should be good.”

“Well, I shall get started on making it if you would go wake up Flagra.”

“Right.” Floriana went to wake up their helmsmare. Flagra, it’s time to get up.”

“I am up,” the mare said as she opened the door.

“Do you all wake up at the crack of dawn or something?”

“What? Oh, no. I didn’t sleep. I was talking to a contact I have in Trottingham. He offered us a place to stay once we get there.”

“That’s great, but how are you talking with someone who’s literally an ocean away? I didn’t think magic could communicate that far.”

“It’s complicated. The Doctor and I have special devices that we use for communication. I could try to explain them to you, but I doubt you’d be able to understand since I barely do.”

“Try me, I’m smarter than I look.”

“Well, basically I have this wristband.” She lifted her hoof to show the wristband on it. “The Doctor has one too. From what I understand, our wristbands send out a signal which gets picked up by the TARDIS which is in geostationary orbit at an equal distance between us. The TARDIS then sends the signal to the corresponding wristband.”

“Well, other than the TARDIS thing, it seems to make sense. So what is this TARDIS?”

“That’s confidential, I’m afraid.”

“What do you mean confidential? Are you some sort of spy?”

“I’m not a spy but there are certain aspects of my life that can only be known by a few people and unfortunately, you are not one of those people.”

“So who is allowed to know?”

“Other than myself and the Doctor, only Madam Varaya, Jennet, and Schatt. They are friends of the Doctor.”

“I want to ask more but you’d probably just say it’s confidential.”

“Probably.”

“Well, anyways, Ani is making eggs so come eat.”

“Alright, I’ll be there in a bit.”

Once everyone was in the mess hall, they ate their breakfast and continued with their day. And so the journey continued in this matter until the ninth day when something unexpected happened.

They came across a ship much larger than their own. Since they were so close to their destination they assumed it was an escort sent to bring them to New Equestria. “Fly the colors!” Clover ordered.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Floriana asked.

“It means raise the flag,” Flagra explained as the started raising the Equestrian flag--an orange Alicorn Symbol on a field of blue. “And now we wait to see their flag. If they’re an ally, we anchor and meet with them.”

“And if they’re an enemy?”

“Well, then we do our best to fight them off.”

“Why do I get the feeling that we wouldn’t stand a chance?”

“Probably because we wouldn’t. Let’s just hope it doesn’t come to that.”

As they waited for the other ship to show their flag, they sailed at what they hoped was a safe distance from it. After a few minutes, they saw the other ship raise a flag. But rather than the New Equestrian flag--a small Equestrian flag in the top left corner with diagonal yellow and white stripes--they saw the universal skull-and-crossbones flag of-- “Pirates!” Clover yelled. “Arm the cannons!”

“What cannons?” Flagra asked.

“I don’t know. We need some way of defending ourselves,” Clover replied, dropping his phony accent in the seriousness of the situation.

“Well, I can fire acorns at them but I’m not sure that will help much,” Floriana offered.

“I feel like we should have planned some form of defense for something like this.”

“I know some attack spells,” Flagra said.

“Well why didn’t you say so? Start firing at them!”

Flagra complied with the orders and started firing balls of energy at the pirate ship. But after only a few shots, they fired back a strange device that attached to her horn and canceled out her magic. The others tried to get the device off of her but it wouldn’t come. Clover then tried using what little attack magic he knew but again they fired the strange device and it attached to his horn cancelling his magic. The princesses were about to do their best to fight back but two more magic-cancelling devices were fired at them. The pirates then fired a grappling hook at them and reeled them in. With the lack of Floriana’s magic, Old Oakie slowly reverted to its natural form and the pirates generously planted it in the pot that Floriana had brought as they threw them in the brig.

About an hour later, someone whom they assumed was the captain came down to the brig to talk to them. She was a blue figure and she did not appear to be solid. She appeared to be an earth pony mare and she spoke with a very fluid voice. “Welcome aboard El Botín,” she said. “I am Captain River. You will address me as Captain or Captain River; nothing else. You have already met my first mate, the naga. You will call him Naga as he does not give his name. You need know no more. As our prisoners, you will work for for us until we find a better use for you. While on board, you will wear the anti-magic braces we have placed on your horns. These braces block not only unicorn magic but also flying magic thus you will be unable to fly. You will receive two meals a day; one in the morning and one at night. Perform well, you will be treated well. Perform poorly, you will be punished. In time, if you do well, you may be rewarded. You will start by swabbing the deck. You can find the materials you need in the closet over there. I expect it to be complete by the end of the day. Fail in this regard and you will be punished. That is all.”

She opened the door to the cage-like brig to let them out and started to return topside but Clover said, “Captain?”

She stopped and turned back to them. “What is it?”

“Pardon my asking, but what are you?”

“I suppose you wouldn’t recognize something like me, being Equestrian and all. My kind are known by many names but one you might understand is Elemental, specifically Water Elemental. I have taken the form of a female pony simply to give you something to look at but I can take on any form. I suppose I should show you the form that I typically take.” She transformed into a bipedal form with long limbs and strange phalanges at the end of them. Her head shrank back and extended upwards and her chest grew two strange spherical things.

“What kind of form is that?”

“This is the form of a human. Though you wouldn’t know that as most races don’t. This is the form you will see me in around the ship so get used to it. Now get to work.” And with that she left for them to get to work.

“Well, I guess we just have to do what she says until we can find a way off of here.”

And so began their days of imprisonment. After about 2 weeks, Captain River started to treat them as a part of her crew. They still weren’t allowed to use magic but they were given two rooms to share between the four of them and their jobs became less menial as Captain River learned more about their skills. Animia was sent to be an assistant in the kitchen, Floriana was assigned to help with navigation, Flagra helped man the sails, and Clover, surprisingly enough, was assigned to help plan the plundering. As time went on, they began to forget about their original quest and started to accept their lives as pirates. After a couple months, it was discovered that Flagra was pregnant by Clover and she was thusly given less demanding duties.

About a week later, Flagra and Clover were in bed when Flagra started up a conversation. “Hey Clover.”

“Yes?”

“I was thinking. Maybe we should have our foal on land, not on this ship.”

“What makes you say that? We’ve kind of made a life as pirates.”

“But what of our original quest? And your family? And aside from that, I don’t want to raise a child on a boat.” She didn’t mention the fact that she was sent to the past to make sure that the quest was successful.

“I guess you do make a point. But how do you propose we go about doing that?”

“Well, if you’re as close to the Captain as you say, you could try asking her to let us go.”

“Do you really think that will work?”

“It couldn’t hurt to try.”

“Actually, she’s the captain of a ship full of pirates, most of which are carnivores, so it could quite easily hurt to ask.”

“You make a good point but what other choice do we have?”

“I guess we don’t. Alright, I’ll ask her tomorrow.” As they went to sleep, Clover tried to think of how he would word his argument.

The next day, while planning their next move Clover said, “Hey, Captain, could I ask you something?”

“I suppose. Just remember your place.”

“Is there any chance that you would ever let my companions and I go?”

“Let me tell you something. I’ve been on this ship for many years. When I was given this ship by Herensuge, he told me that if ever there was a time when someone in my custody asked for freedom I was to take them to him. If you truly wish for freedom, then I shall take you to his dwelling in Aneto. It’s not far from our original meeting spot. It will take two days to reach land and then we must walk for about 8 days. He will meet you and your fate will be determined afterward. We shall set a course to Valencia. Please go alert the navigators.”

He left to seek out Floriana and the other navigators. “Change of course,” he said when he found them. “We’re headed to Valencia.”

“Aye,” the head navigator, a bipedal dog named Jinro, said.

They carried on with their duties until they arrived at port in Valencia and the Captain came out to make an announcement. “Attention crew,” she said. “As I’m sure you know, we have arrived in Valencia. Clover, Flagra, Floriana, Anima, and myself have business to attend to on land. As such, we will be docked for just over a fortnight. If you wish to stay on the ship, you may but if you wish to stay in town, that is on your own dime. The same goes for food. The five of us that I’ve already mentioned will be heading farther inland and thus will be unreachable so if you have anything to say to us, do so now. we will be leaving in one hour.” She returned to her cabin, presumably to ready whatever she needed on the land.

An hour later, they set off for Aneto. The Captain had taken her pony form and was also wearing a long hooded cloak. “Captain,” Clover started but she stopped him.

“When we’re on land, you call me River. People hear ‘captain’ and they start to get curious.”

“Alright, River, might I ask why you’re in your pony form and what’s with the clothes?”

“My kind are not always received well. Some races see elementals as evil beings, which isn’t entirely false. Fires tend to support this stereotype but Waters and Airs are typically gentle and Earths are rather neutral. The main problem with this is that Fires are the only ones that make regular contact with the mortal races so their personas are what’s remembered. I take the form of a pony on land because most races see ponies as a gentle race. The clothes are to hide my watery appearance.”

“I suppose that makes sense. So how far is this Aneto place?”

“About 225 miles to the northeast. It will take 8 days to get there provided we walk 12 hours each day. Does that sound reasonable?”

“I suppose. Is there any chance you could take these magic blockers off of us?”

“Hmm, I suppose you don’t really know where you are so the chances of you escaping successfully are low. I suppose, but don’t try anything stupid.” She reached out a watery tendril from beneath her cloak and inserted it into each of the magic blockers and they each clicked and released from their horns.

“What are those things anyways?”

“Old human technology. I could explain it in full but you probably wouldn’t believe me.”

“I’m a scientist, I always accept anything as a possibility until it can be proven otherwise.”

“I suppose I could tell you then. About 6 billion years ago, humans were facing inevitable extinction. The being we Elementals call Chaos was making sure of that. In their desperation to survive, the humans placed some of their kind in a long sleep. In addition to this, they created many races to inhabit the world of the future. The earliest of these was the alicorns. However, the humans did not want the alicorns to have magical power over them so they created these magic blockers. They also needed something that would be able to remove the magic blockers so they created hive-minded nanobots. But they needed to make the nanos in a way that they would fit in as a part of the world thus the Elementals were born.”

“So you’re over 6 billion years old?”

“Me? No. The Elementals of were implanted with the information to create more Elementals as well as the information to create more magic blockers. I’m one of the newer generations but the legends have been passed down--and they are known to be true because we Elementals have perfect memories.”

“Perfect memory?”

“Being consisted of nanobots, we have enough internal memory storage to hold as much information as we need with the exact perfection of computational data.”

“I didn’t understand exactly what you just said but I suppose you did warn me about that.”

“Indeed I did. Well, this is where we’ll be staying for the night.” She said as they approached an inn at the edge of Valencia. “We’ll start the long trek at dawn so try to get some sleep.” She paid the innkeeper for three rooms and they all went up to the rooms and went to sleep.

Chapter 11--Meanwhile

Back in Canterlot, the remaining royals were gathered after their dinner to discuss Starswirl’s findings regarding the Stones of Power.

“Starswirl, would you please share with us the reason that we have gathered today?” Temporus said when the family had gathered in the war room.

“Of course,” Starswirl replied. “As you all know, I have been meticulously researching the Stones of Power, the very same items that we have sent Clover, Floriana, Animia, and Flagra to search for. Before I began my research, we already knew that these Stones were the only things that could vanquish a creature touch by Discord’s evil, mind-altering magic. Since then, I have found that there are in fact six Stones that make up the group. Each of these Stones represent a power that when combined with the others creates an unstoppable force. Let us just hope that Tirek is not an immovable wall.”

“Daddy, don’t forget to tell them about Discord,” the young Flagra piped up as she made her presence known.

“I was just getting to that, dear. From my readings, I have found rumors that it was Discord himself who created these Stones and it can only be assumed that he would also have the power to destroy them.”

“But why would Discord create a weapon that could be used against him?” Celestia asked.

“Your guess is as good as mine, he’s madder than a hatter. But the point still stands that should our search party find all of the Stones, we must do everything in our power to prevent Discord from destroying them. And that’s another thing, I’m not so sure they will be able to find all of the Stones.”

“What do you mean?” Temporus asked.

“No one has ever been able to find all six, only the first five. The sixth Stone always appears in an unusual way once the other five are obtained. It’s always something different each time. The most detailed description of the appearance of the sixth Stone said that a creature appeared bearing the skins of many others and presented the sixth Stone to the locator of the other five.”

“‘A creature bearing the skins of many others?’ Sounds like a description of Discord,” Luna said.

“My thoughts exactly.”

“So Discord is responsible for giving the final Stone to the locators of the other five?” Galaxis asked.

“So it would seem. Which only creates more questions.”

“Yeah, like how are we going to get that sixth Stone?” Sapphire said.

“The only way I can think of is to find Discord and request the sixth Stone from him.”

“And if he refuses?” Temporus asked.

“I don’t think he will. I’ve done a little research on Discord himself and I’ve found that he wants the creatures of his touch extinguished as well.”

“Why would he want his army destroyed?” Celestia asked.

“Another good question. The simple answer is that I don’t know and I doubt I ever will. All I know is that in all likelihood he will give us the sixth Stone, we just need to find him.”

“Did you find any more useful intel?” Temporus asked.

“That is all for now.”

“Then this meeting is adjourned. Thank you Starswirl.”

Everyone began to get up and return to their respective duties. As Starswirl returned to his tower with his wife and child beside him, he suddenly stopped and looked out the window.

“What is it Swirly?” Sapphire asked.

“Nothing, I just thought I saw...something. Come on, it’s getting late.”

They continued to their tower and put Flagra to bed before retiring to their own room. As Sapphire got into the bed, she looked at her husband. “Are you coming to bed, dear?”

“In a bit, I think I’ll do a little more research first.”

“You’ve been doing nothing but research for the past three months, you need to take a break. Your daughter needs her daddy and I need my loving husband.”

“I promise, I’ll take a week off starting tomorrow, just let me have tonight.”

“Fine, but you better not do any research the entire week.”

“Deal.” As Sapphire went to bed, Starswirl went to his study to continue his research. But when he arrived, he found something he wasn’t expecting.

“Hello, Starswirl the Bearded,” a voice from the shadows said.

“Who’s there? Who are you?”

“Would you believe that I’m you from the future?”

“Likely story. Show yourself.” The body that the voice belonged to stepped out from the shadows to reveal that he was in fact-- “Discord!”

“Ah, so you know who I am. Actually I already knew that you know about me. In fact, that’s why I’m here.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’ve been doing an awful lot of research lately.” The creature said as he picked up Starswirl’s research journal and started reading it. “Discord created the Stones. The sixth Stone never found. Discord wants his creations exterminated. You sure know how to find some useful info. A little too well if you ask me.”

“I also know that your appearance is never for nothing so why are you here?”

“Right to business, I like that. You see, I don’t much like the amount of research you’ve been doing about me. No one should ever know too much about me, that knowledge could be hazardous to their health. So let’s make a deal, if you put down the books, I’ll leave your family alone.”

“You wouldn’t dare hurt my wife or daughter.”

“Oh wouldn’t I? You know what I’m capable of so you know very well that I could easily corrupt their minds without you even knowing. I could even kill them and be long gone before you even found their bodies. Luckily for you, I won’t do this. At least, not to your daughter. She happens to play an important role in the existence of a powerful pawn in the future.”

“How do you know what the future holds?”

“Oh, I know much more than you might think. I can read the minds of any of you simple creatures and for the ones I miss, I have several spies to make up for that. But of course I don’t usually miss many. As for the future, I happen to know exactly how everything will play out down to the second, which makes killing me all that harder.”

“What about the Stones of Power?”

“What about them? I created them, I can destroy them. Besides, even if I let them remain in existence, the sixth Stone can only be obtained through me.”

“Then why haven’t you destroyed them already?”

“I have no need to. If they’re used against me, they’ll only turn me to stone but that won’t kill me. The only way to kill me is to extinguish all sentience on the planet. And that’s harder than it might sound, trust me I’ve tried. I know only that my death will come to pass but not in your lifetime and the Stones will play an essential role in killing me.”

“You said you’ve tried to kill all sentient life. Why would you do that if you knew that doing so would kill you?”

“I’ve been around for longer than you can imagine, something like 6 billion years or so. In that time, I’ve tried to entertain myself by messing with all the mortals that have had the honor of existence but in all that time I’ve grown bored, weary, old, lazy even. I’m tired of living so I want to die.”

“So give me the sixth Stone and with it and the others we can end you.”

“I’m afraid it’s not so easy. You see, I know that the Stones play a crucial role but I don’t know how that role is played. Don’t worry, you’ll get the sixth Stone in due time, or at least, someone will. But right now, I need you to stop your research unless you want your good ol’ wifey to be out of the picture.”

“Don’t you hurt her!”

“Oh I won’t, but you must never pick up another book about me ever again. Of course I already know the decision you’re going to make so I’ll just take my leave and carry out the next step in my master plan.” And without another word, he vanished leaving Starswirl to wonder what Discord assumed his decision would be.

Chapter 12--Ambios Marking and Dream Klitrio

A week had passed and the travelling party had finally arrived in Aneto. “So where does Herensuge live?” Clover asked River.

“You see that mountain over there?” she pointed to a very obvious mountain in the distance. “He lives in a cave on that mountain. We should be able to get there by nightfall.”

“Can we stop for some lunch first?” Floriana asked. “I’m starving.”

“Fine, but we must be on our way in no more than an hour.”

They went to a nearby restaurant where they were greeted by the host. “Good afternoon, my name is Ambios Marking. Table for five?”

“Yes,” Clover said as they were led to a table.

“Can I get you started with some drinks?”

They ordered the drinks and Ambios left. “He seems nice,” Floriana said as they started looking at the menus.

“Don’t get any ideas, Flo, we can’t afford any romantic attachments right now,” Animia said.

“What about Clover and Flagra?”

“That started before our journey and they’ve gotten to the stage in their relationship where they aren’t distracted by romance. If you start a relationship now, I fear that it could distract you from our mission.”

“What is this mission you keep talking about?” River asked.

“We’ve been tasked to find the Stones of Power to vanquish Tirek,” Clover explained.

“Well, you haven’t made much progress while on my ship, have you?”

“That’s part of the reason we requested to be freed.”

“What’s the rest of the reason?”

“Flagra here is pregnant and we wanted to have the foal on land.”

“Pregnant, eh? How long?”

“About a two months before you caught us.”

Just then, the server came with their drinks. “Hello, my name is Dream Klitrio and I’ll be serving you today. Have you decided what you want to eat?”

They placed their orders and Dream left. “He’s kinda cute,” Animia said.

“What was that you were saying about no romantic attachments, Ani?” Floriana asked.

“Touche.”

Meanwhile, in the restaurant’s kitchen, Ambios Marking and Dream Klitrio were have a rather intriguing conversation. “I’m telling you, Ambios, that’s them,” Dream insisted.

“Are you sure? We don’t want to follow another random group of ponies again,” Ambios commented.

“Hey, those ponies in Egypt looked very similar to the Equestrian Princesses. Besides, this time I’m positive it’s them, these ponies are alicorns.”

“Alright, let’s say it is them, are we just gonna follow them like those ponies in Egypt? They didn’t seem too happy about being followed.

“No, I’ve got a better idea. If we get close to them, then we should have no problem with them letting us come with them.”

“Now, when you say ‘get close to them’ do you mean--”

“We’ll have to pose as their boyfriends, or ‘coltfriends’ as these annoying ponies call it.”

“You’re forgetting that I’m actually a pony too.”

“But that’s where you’re wrong, my dear Ambios. Thanks to Discord, you have become more than just a pony. You and I are tantamount to gods, now.”

“Whatever. So we pose as their coltfriends. What all does that entail?”

“Use your imagination you ignoramus! Romance her, make her feel special, have sex if you must. Just do whatever it takes to get her to trust you. You’ll do this with Princess Floriana and I shall do the same with Princess Animia. Once we gain their trust, we shall carry on with our plan.”

“Sounds good, just one question though. How do you woo a mare?”

“Ugh, why did I team up with you?”

“Personally, I think a little romance for you two is a good idea. I say bring them along for the journey, the more the merrier,” Clover said.

“Hmm, Clover does make a point,” River said. “Romantic attachments are proven to ease the mind of stress and make journeys like this seem much easier. Not to mention if you had two more stallions in your party, it could make certain tasks along the way much easier as well. However, I’ve also found that romantic attachments can become a weakness and a distraction that could lead to harm or even death.”

“While that may be true, I think love is more of a strength than a weakness. After all, love is known to conquer all.”

“Yes, but love also tends to be the cause of all.”

“Hmm, fair point…”

“Can I say something?” Flagra chimed in. “I think that it should be up to them to choose. If they want to attempt a relationship while we are travelling the so be it but if it gets to be distracting then we will solve that problem when we come to it.”

“How did you become so wise?” Clover asked.

“I had good teachers.”

“Well, I think we should go for it, when are we ever gonna get a chance for romance again?” Floriana said.

Shortly after they finished this conversation, Dream returned with their food and Animia decided to make her move. “You said your name was Dream, right?”

“That’s right, miss,” Dream said casually. I’ve already caught her attention, this is gonna be easier than I thought.

“Well, I’m Animia and I must say that name suits you perfectly because when I look at you I feel like I’m dreaming.”

“Well, I’m sure my looks are nothing compared to your own.”

“Ooh, you’re good. Say, we’re here on a long journey and it would be much more durable if you would come along.”

“Well, how could I say no to such a beautiful mare as yourself.” As he left to serve the other tables, he turned his head back and winked at her.

She turned back to the rest of the group who were just staring at her in shock. “What?”

Finally Clover spoke up, “We just never expected a pony such as yourself to be so comfortable talking with the other sex.”

“What can I say, I’ve been practicing.”

“With what?” Floriana asked, genuinely concerned for her sister.

“With Albus…”

“Albus? You mean your phoenix Albus Ignis?”

She nodded. “He’s actually a smart bird and he understands me very well.”

“Yes, that tends to come with animal magic,” Clover added.

They finished their lunch and went to pay where Floriana decided she would get a chance to talk to Ambios by having Clover give her the money.

“Oh why hello,” Ambios said when he saw it was her trying to pay. “Don’t tell me you’re paying for all of those meals? I simply can’t allow this. Please, allow me to cover the meal for you and your friends.”

“Oh, no, you don’t have to do that,” she said.

“Please I insist.” As he rung them up using his own money he asked, “I haven’t seen you guys around here, are you new to town?”

“Uh, yes. We’re just travelling through though, we have a long journey ahead of us.”

“Well, would you mind if I joined you? I’ve been wanting to get out of this town all my life and a long journey is just what I need. Plus, I’ll get to see you every day.” She just blushed and turned away. “So is that a yes?”

“Yes,” she said quietly.

“Excellent!” He threw his apron on the counter and followed them out of the restaurant where Dream was waiting for them. “Ah, Dream, I see you’ve acquainted yourself with these ponies as well.

“I’ve done more than just acquainted myself, I do believe I’ve won the favor of this fair maiden,” Dream said as he approached Animia.

“Well, it seems we both got lucky since I’ve managed to work my way into this lovely young lady’s heart. By the way, I never caught your name,” he said to Floriana.

“Oh, it’s, uh, Floriana,” she said.

“Well, Floriana, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“So where are we going?” Dream asked.

“There,” River said pointing to the mountain. And with that they started off toward the mountain getting there around nightfall as River had predicted. “We should set up camp. Herensuge is likely asleep by now and it’s never a good idea to try to wake him.”

“Well, we have two new bodies so we need to figure out sleeping arrangements,” Clover said.

“Well, had the forethought to bring an extra tent, Ambios seems to have forgotten his though,” Dream added.

“And I don’t require sleep,” River explained. “So Clover and Flagra can have one tent, Ambios and Floriana in another, and Dream and Animia in the last.”

“Alright, but I don’t want to hear an funny business happening,” Clover warned.

“Clover we’re all consenting adults here, there’s no need to be so protective.”

“Very well, but don’t come crying to me if things aren’t the way you expect.”

And with those awkward last words, they magicked the tents into shape and went to bed.

Chapter 13--Herensuge

When morning came, the group made there way up the mountain to Herensuge’s cave. “I’ll go in first,” River said. “He knows me so he’s less likely to be hostile if he sees me first.”

“What do you mean ‘less likely?’” Clover asked as they began walking into the cave. “That implies that there’s still a chance for hostility.”

“Well, he is a dragon.”

“A dragon?!” the group exclaimed.

“Yeah, didn’t I mention that?”

“Not once,” Clover said.

“Well, now you know. Herensuge is a dragon that’s been alive since long before the concept of any of you was ever even dreamt of.”

“How long is that?”

“About 6,283,184,307 years ago. Give or take a few millenia.”

“And you know this how?”

“Let’s just say I haven’t told you everything about my origins.”

“Come to think of it, you haven’t actually told us anything about your origins.”

“Well, perhaps I’ll tell you sometime in the future.”

“The future is a long time.”

“That it is. And time is a long road that often loops back on itself. There will likely come a time when you come to learn everything about me and my kind but until that time should come, I’m afraid my true identity must remain a secret.”

“Fine.”

“In any case, Herensuge has likely been listening into this entire conversation so he’ll be expecting us.”

“But we’ve been walking for quite some time and I don’t see any end to this cave. Assuming he’s in the very back of the cave, how could he possibly have heard us?”

“As I said, he is a dragon. They have much better hearing than you ponies. Not to mention, the depth of this cave is merely an illusion created by Herensuge himself to keep out intruders. Only he can dispel the illusion and only when he is ready to greet us.”

“So if the depth of the cave is just an illusion, where have we been walking to?”

“Nowhere actually. The illusion began about 100 yards into the cave. Since then, we’ve been suspended in space with the illusion creating a ‘ground’ beneath our hooves. In actuality, we are already in the main part of the cave where Herensuge is, he has merely hidden himself behind the illusion.”

“So how is this illusion made?”

“Magic, of course. Don’t think that unicorns and alicorns are the only races that can use magic. I just wish he’d hurry up and take it down so we can talk to him.” As she said this, the walls around them seemed to shimmer and wave before finally disappearing to reveal the eons-old dragon living within.

The cave that was revealed, seemed nearly as large as the mountain itself, almost as if the mountain was simply hollowed out and a dragon placed inside. The dragon, Herensuge, was an enormous specimen. He was nearly as large as the cave and gleamed with golden scales. With one look, it could be easily seen that he was very old and very wise.

It should be noted that dragons have no end to their lifespan and the end of their lives is usually brought on by some “heroic” knight set out to slay a dragon. It should also be noted that this is a very difficult task and those who are able to accomplish it are granted the immortality that the dragon had. Another thing to note is that this immortality is brought upon by eating the dragon’s heart which contains in it the very essence which gave the dragon its ageless life. A final note would be that there is no record of a first dragon and that they seem to have been in existence since the dawn of time. This, of course, is false as dragons were in fact the creators of time itself which may be the reason for their agelessness.

The tunnel which lead to Herensuge’s cave opened to where his head was so that the group could properly speak with him without having to crane their necks and without Herensuge having to crouch down to their level. “Ah, River, long time no see,” he roared when the illusion had finally fallen.

“Indeed, how have you been, old friend?”

“Who are you calling old?”

“Oh, please. If you were any older you’d have existed before the universe.”

“Ha, right you are. So what brings you to my humble abode?”

“These ponies were prisoners of mine and have asked to be freed. Per your request, I have brought them to you.”

“Ponies, eh? I never was very fond of them. So ponies, why do you desire freedom from River? What purpose could you have that is more important than serving her?”

“We are seeking the Stones of Power in hopes of vanquishing Lord Tirek and any other villain which seeks to disrupt the peace and harmony of the United Kingdom of Equestria and Gryphonia and, indeed, of the entire world,” Clover explained.

“Stones of Power, eh? Well, I knew this day would come. As it happens, I actually have one of the Stones. For being honest in your reasons, I will grant you your freedom. However, if you want the Stone that I have, I need you to do something for me.”

“Name it and we shall do it.”

“I thought you might say that. Believe it or not, even eons-old dragons like me have people who want me dead. Usually they are unable to kill me but there is a particular group which worries me with its abilities. I want you to do whatever it takes to disband this group and prevent them from taking my life. Do this and I will give you the Stone of Power that I hold.”

“Very well. Is there any information you can give us of this group?”

“The group is known as the Maken they are a group of dogs living in Aneto. Their leader is a literal and figurative bitch named Rida. They typically change their whereabouts within the town but each time they put up a protective enchantment specifically against dragons which I cannot break. This is why I need you to take care of them for me.”

“Very well. Do you know of any way we might know which building they are using as their hideout?”

“Because it is enchanted against dragons specifically, I should be able to point it out for you.”

“How will you do that when you don’t seem to be able to fit outside this cave?”

As Clover asked this, Herensuge began shrinking to the size of a pony and stood next to them. “You were saying?”

“How did you do that?”

“Magic, of course. Though, my magic is much more advanced than yours. So much so that you would never be able to do what I can within your miniscule lifetime.”

“Whatever. Can you point out the building now?”

“Of course.” They walked to the outside of the cave to where they had a perfect view of the nearby town below. “You see that tall building with the red roof that looks like a castle of sorts?”

“You mean the really big one in the center of town that looks as though it is the building which houses the governing powers of the town?”

“That’s the one.”

“Of course it is. Why are the bad guys always so bad at being inconspicuous?”

“No idea. But that’s the building you want. Bring me some proof of their disbandment and I will give you the Stone.”

“Proof? What kind of proof?”

“I’d accept something like a copy of their notice of disbandment or Rida’s head will do nicely.”

“Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. With any luck, we’ll be back here tomorrow to give you a copy of their notice of disbandment.”

“Or Rida’s head?”

“If it comes to that, then, yes, we will bring Rida’s head.”

“Great. I’ll be waiting patiently for your return.” And with that, Herensuge returned to his cave while the group headed back down the mountain an into town.

Chapter 14--Battle of Aneto

The group arrived back in town around noon and walked up to the large building which housed the infamous group Maken. Floriana, who had been riding on her oak tree which she had since named Old Oakie, planted said tree outside and gave it a fresh watering.

“I’ll send in a scrying sensor to scope out the area,” Clover said. With a small burst of magic, a shiny ball emerged from his horn and went under the crack in the door. “This door, which is on the east side of the building, appears to be the only on leading outside, It looks like we have a main area that’s about 100 feet long by about 50 feet wide. There’s a large table in the center of it with eight chairs around it. Rida is sitting at the head of the table presumably leading the meeting. Keep in mind that I can’t hear them because if I made the scry powerful enough to hear, then it would be too noticeable. To the north, there are three dogs with short swords. To south, from closest to farthest with respects to Rida, there’s a dog with a battleaxe and two with warhammers. Everyone except Rida has a wooden shield on them. Rida herself has two longswords. Towards the back, behind Rida, are several barrels and crates presumably full of supplies of some sort. In the front corners are a few crates as well. To the north, there are four rooms for some of the soldiers. To the south, from closest to farthest from the door, there are two more soldier rooms, a restroom, and Rida’s room.”

“Alright,” River said, as Clover dispelled the scrying sensor, “We’ll start with the diplomatic approach to see if we can get them to disband peacefully. If that fails, we take action.”

“Sounds good,” Clover said. “As I am the Ambassador of The United Kingdom of Equestria and Gryphonia, I believe I should do the talking.”

“And how much experience have you actually had as an ambassador?”

“I have a one-hundred-percent success rate. I have completed a total of 5 assignments: the joining of Equestria and Gryphonia via arranging the marriage of the eldest royal children of each nation; establishing the trade agreement between the UKEG and the llamas of Mexicolt; negotiating peace between the various races of Greece; establishing alliances with the various naga tribes located within Equestria and Egypt; and initiating the three-party trade agreement between the UKEG, Trottingham, and Spony.”

“Hmm, not bad. Alright, I’ll give you the reins on this one. Just don’t screw it up. Or do. I don’t really care if we have to kill the bitch or not but the sooner we can get this done with, the better.”

“What, you got somewhere to be?”

“You might recall that I have my crew and ship waiting for me back in Valencia. I’d like to return to them as soon as possible so the sooner we can get this little errand finished, the sooner we can return to Herensuge, and the sooner I can be on my way back to Valencia while you lot finish your quest.”

“Right. Let’s do this then.”

They all walked into the building with Clover in the front. River was to his right and flagra was to his left. Ambios was behind him. To his left was Floriana and to his right was Animia. On the other side of Animia was Dream. Rida stopped discussing whatever it was they had been talking about to address the newcomers. “We were not expecting any guests today,” she said. “Who are you and what brings you here today?”

“My name is Clover,” Clover said. “These are my cousins, Floriana and Animia, their coltfriends Ambios Marking and Dream Klitrio, my marefriend Flagra, and our friend River. We were sent here to request the disbandment of this group.”

“Disbandment? And who might be the one who sent you?"

“A dragon known as Herensuge.”

“Ha! That fool. Surely he realizes that the sole purpose of this group is to slay him. Why would we disband for his sake?”

“Why do you want to kill him in the first place?”

“Simple, he is a dragon. His existence alone is a threat to other life. He either need to leave this place, or die.”

“Why should he have to leave? He was here first.”

“But we are more populace. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. Or the one.”

“So you’re going to kill him?”

“We’ve tried the diplomatic approach but he doesn’t seem to want to leave.”

“And why should he? This is is home.”

“And now it’s ours. Besides, rumor has it that if you eat a dragon’s heartstrings, you will gain its immortality. So if you don’t have anything more to say, then we were just on our way to go slay the beast.”

“You’ll have to go through us first.”

“Very well. Dogs, at your ready.” The dogs all got up from their chairs, drew their weapons, and readies their shields. Rida also drew her swords and cracked her neck. “Let’s do this.”

The closest short swordsman acted first by running towards the door and slashed at Dream, catching him off guard and giving him a nasty cut on the side of his neck. The nearest warhammer guy was quick to act to leaping forward and smashing down on Flagra. Luckily it wasn’t a very hard hit but it surely hurt. The farthest short swordsman was quick behind but Clover reacted before he had a chance to attack. He shot a magical ray of light that pierced the swordsman right through the head making a rather painful looking gash above his eye. Floriana was next to act. She brought one of Old Oakie’s roots from underground and had it launch forward to hit the warhammer guy that had attacked Flagra. Unfortunately, the warhammer guy was too quick and dodged it. Rida then started to move in but Ambios stopped her by causing black flames to surround her.

The last swordsman moved next, swinging at River; however, due to River’s liquid body, the sword went straight through her causing the swordsman to stumble. The battleaxe guy then moved up next to the first warhammer guy but was interrupted by Dream raising black fire around him. The other warhammer guy then moved in and slammed Clover hard on the side of the head. Clover fell to the ground but remained conscious. Upon seeing this, River sent out a series of sharp water spikes stabbing the swordsman next to her as well as the warhammer guy that had just hit Clover.

Animia, feeling secure with her friends around her, took control of Albus Ignis who had been riding on her back sending him to peck at the eyes of the swordsman by River and claw at the swordsman by Dream. Flagra then stepped up and shot a powerful blast of fire ahead of her hitting the two warhammer guys, the battleaxe guy, and Rida. This also set the nearby table and chairs on fire. The swordsman next to Dream, annoyed By albus, swung at him, knocking him down but leaving him otherwise unphased. The warhammer guy in front of Flagra, generally pissed about being set on fire, swung hard at Flagra, hitting her with a mighty blow and sending her flying against the crates in the corner. The far swordsman, having been hit by Clover’s light beam, moved in to hit him while he was down, slicing his leg with a deep cut. Clover, rather upset with this, got up and shot a blast of light out, hitting that swordsman as well as the two warhammer guys.

Floriana then moved Old Oakie completely into the room from the root in front of her and shot its razor sharp leaves in a wide array hitting both the warhammer guys, the nearest swordsman, the battleaxe guy, and Rida. Rida, seeing Flagra as the biggest threat, went after her while she was dazed in the corner swinging fiercely with both swords practically cutting her to pieces. Ambios saw this and came to her rescue sliding past Floriana and shooting a spell at Rida that hit her hard sending her flying into the nearby bedroom wall. Meanwhile, the swordsman, his eyes still in pain from Albus’s attack, decided to stab the bird while it was on the ground. Luckily, his aim was off due to the pain in his eyes and the stab only grazed Albus. The battleaxe guy, after seeing Rida thrown so violently, stepped in to retaliate against Ambios, leaving a large gash in his head.

Dream noticed the scuffle occurring at the other side of the group and decided to take action by sending a powerful spell at the battleaxe guy consisting of a small blue-white orb floating around his head sending stabbing rays at him and temporarily immobilizing him. The warhammer guy in front of Clover, despite wanting to hit Dream for that last move, had to get through Clover first. So he hit Clover with all he had to move him, pummelling him to the ground. Seeing this, River stabbed the guy with her water. Rather annoyed by the attacks on him, Albus flared up his fiery body and flew at the swordsman that had stabbed him, burning him badly before flying to scratch up the other swordsman. Flagra, using a final resort, created a wall of fire on top of all the enemies except for Rida before running out the door to protect herself while screaming: “Everybody out!”

Meanwhile, the fire on the chairs and table had spread up to the next set of chairs and halfway up the table. The swordsman by Dream, got burned badly by the fire before stepping away from it very quickly. This, however, led him away from his adversary so he didn’t get to attack. Similarly, the warhammer guy next to Old Oakie was also badly burned before stepping back, away from the heroes. The swordsman in front of River was also burned before stepping back. Clover also sustained damage from the firewall simply by being next to it. Luckily it wasn’t nearly as bad. He quickly joined Flagra outside where he casted a healing spell on her.

Floriana, noticing that Old Oakie was catching fire, pulled it underground through its root and outside where she also met Clover and Flagra. Rida came out of the bedroom she was thrown into to see what was happening. Upon seeing the massive inferno, she decided to make a last ditch effort to take out Ambios swinging both her swords at full force cutting him badly but he still survived, blocking her way out. After being hurt by Rida, and the blaze beside him, Ambios decided to strike Rida one last time before making his getaway by gripping her tightly in a magical grasp and throwing her back into the bedroom. The last swordsman burned in the fire before stepping away from it. The battleaxe guy was burned alive by the fire and died on the spot.

Dream shook Animia out of her trance and pulled her outside with him. The other warhammer guy was nearly killed by the fire but was so stunned by it that he, too, stepped back inside rather than following the group outside. River grabbed Albus and ran out to join the others. Flagra, just to be sure the job was done, sent a burst of fire to the back of the room where it lit the barrels, which were later discovered to be filled with dynamite, causing a massive explosion.

“I think we got ‘em,” River said as they all sat there catching their breaths and healing.

They all shared a laugh which Clover punctuated by saying, “Yeah, I think so.”

Once they had finished healing, they made their way back up the mountain to Herensuge.

“Well, did you finish the task?” Herensuge asked when they returned.

“See for yourself,” River replied.

Herensuge shrunk down to pony size and the group led him out to see the burning crisp the used to be the building where Rida had been. “Well,” Herensuge said, “I think that will suffice. Thank you for your help. If you’ll follow me back into my cave, I’ll give you the Stone of Power which I possess.” They went back into the cave where Herensuge ruffled through his hoard to find the Stone of Power to give the group. “Best of luck in your quest to find the others. Please know that should the time ever arise, I will be by you side to fight in whatever battle may be coming. And as for you, River. I appreciate you helping these ponies. I’d like you to continue travelling with these ponies until they finish their quest. They could use a strong fighter such as yourself. I have already alerted your crew in Valencia and sent them on their way with your first mate taking charge in your absence.”

“Very well. Anything else?”

“That will be all. So long, kind ponies, until we meet again.”

The group left the cave and began making their way to Trottingham, the last known place of a Stone of Power.