(Original) Chapter 8: The Gala Part One

Gliese 411 Star System

Planet Equis

Canterlot Imperial Palace, Canterlot

July 10, 2551

3:00 PM

Empress Celestia was writing on a piece of parchment vigorously, using her horn's telekinesis to finely manipulate the quill.

Despite the now widespread availability of magic Holo-screens and other computer technology, such magic produced handwriting that was more beautiful than any computerized font. For this reason, the Empress played it 'old school' as a few of her human subjects would say. "Finally, done with all that." Celestia said with a relief-filled sigh.

Being an Empress meant great power, but with it, there were also the responsibilities and duties. Everything from the issues of taxes and building commissions, meetings with Imperial Bureaucrats and UNSC representatives, to the defense of Equestria and its subjects.

Fortunately, today's source of frustration for the Monarch was not a Covenant threat. Instead, it was what was arguably the most prominent annual social gathering in all the Empire.

That was the Grand Galloping Gala. It was the sole non-war related function that the Empress dreaded.

For that reason. Celestia intended to invite some guests that could make tonight's Gala a bit more, well, bearable. The guests in question were actually some of the highest names in the UNSC and its affiliates.

Lord Admiral Sir Terrence Hood, the enigmatic Admiral Margaret Parangosky, Admiral Michael Stanforth, Colonel James Ackerson, and a woman who is reputed to be the most intelligent Human alive, Doctor Catherine Halsey. Admiral Danforth Whitcomb regrettably could not attend, as he had to stay and 'hold the fort' at Reach, as he had put it.

The Empress snapped out of her flustered mood when she thought of who else would be in attendance. Luna would soon be arriving home from Aurora, Cutter, Shining Armor, and Spitfire are on their way from Reach with the Admirals. Doctor Anders, John Forge, and Twilight and her friends were preparing themselves for the Gala as well. Thinking about all of them brought a warm smile to Celestia's face.

This night can't possibly be as dull as previous ones. This is our chance to make a truly great impression on the UNSC and build their faith and trust in us. What with all the good people gathering tonight, I am convinced we can make the Gala something truly worthy of attending. These thoughts put the Empress at ease.

Casting the finished document away, a banquet order for the Gala, the Empress summoned the next document awaiting her attention.

This was a rather interesting one. Currently, Shining Armor is the acting leader of both the Imperial Army and the Imperial Marines Corps. After meeting with Forge personally and discussing his military career, Celestia had summoned Shining Armor on holo-screen. She discussed with the both of them the potential of appointing Forge Senior General of the Marines. Shining Armor agreed, as he could finally give the Army the attention it really needed. Forge was perplexed, wondering why his record of insubordination didn't seem to matter.

Celestia had told him that insubordination for the sake of saving the lives of your fellow soldiers would merit great honors in the Imperial Military, not demotion as it would in the UNSC.

At that, Forge agreed to take the post, and the document before Celestia now was confirmation of his assignment. With a grin, the Monarch signed her name and stamped the paper with her personal seal, a Sun surrounded by garland leaves.

With that document out-of-the-way as well, it was time now to get some relaxation in before everything starts. It's going to be a long night, after all.

Just as Celestia began to stretch comfortably on her throne, a guard signaled her attention. "Your Highness, Princess Luna has arrived. She says she has something she wishes to show you as well."

Celestia's ears perked up. "Thank you." She said. The guard bowed his head and galloped over to the doors. He and a comrade opened them to admit Princess Luna.

"Tidings to you, my sister." Luna greeted. She stood proudly in her black armor and had a confident smile. Her mane had begun to behave much like Celestia's in the time since she was freed from Nightmare Moon's grasp. Luna was now the spitting image of a true Equestrian military leader.

"Hello Luna." Celestia greeted back with a warm smile. "I see you're back from that freezing planet. How goes the investigation of the artifacts?"

"Magnificent, Tia. Our findings, the spoils of war, have been positively Immaculate! The Forerunner ships we found are unbelievably powerful! We extracted one from the ice, piloted it, and even tested it's main weapon on a kilometer wide ice sheet. The energy beam annihilated the entire glacier, and glassed the rock underneath it. Aurora now has its own giant mirror! Can you imagine what it could do to a Covenant warship!" Luna exclaimed with filly-like glee.

"That is most...impressive? I'm not sure what to call this. I regret that such terrible, powerful weapons of the past most be dredged back up, but at the same time I feel a bit of relief knowing we can better protect our subjects and our allies for it." The Monarch felt concern welling up in the pit of her stomach. A sister's intuition.

Celestia decided to pry. "Are you alright, Luna? Is their something wrong I should know about?" Luna gave her a weird look. "Me? What about you! I thought something was wrong with you, Tia! Especially when you asked for me to take over the military." Her look was now inching from weird, to angered.

The Empress took a long hard glance. at her younger sister. She did not like where this conversation was going. "Luna, I'm not going to lie to you. I was more than worried, I was terrified that the fighting would cause you to fall under Nightmare Moon's sway again."

"Tia, how could you think that! I'm stronger than that and you know it. Nightmare will never be able to threaten anypony again, I swear it my sister!"

"It's not a question of strength, Luna. It's the chaos of battle, it changes people. But it has a uniquely stronger effect on Ponies than Humans, given our inherent inclination for peace. Surely now you understand my concern, little sister?"

Luna's anger abated, and slowly, she nodded. "I'm sorry Tia. I...I've just been away from home too long." She hung her head low.

Desperate to return to a more positive note, Celestia remembered something the guard had recently told her. "Oh, what was it you wanted to show me Luna?"

The Moon Goddess perked back up, assuming her usual demeanor. "Ah, yes, of course! One moment, Tia." Luna grabbed a small Holo-projector she had clipped to her neck piece.

She placed it in the center of her right hoof, holding it up for Celestia to see. The projector produced a revolving image of a Covenant Vessel. "The Divine Crusader. The vessel me and my warriors captured, and where we encountered Toyah Kusovai and his defectors. But they are not the only thing of worth we found inside."

Grinning, Luna manipulated the image, zooming in on one of the Assault Carrier's massive hangars. Inside was a massive walking tank, made to look like an insect. Alongside it were neatly ordered rows of alien battle tanks and another kind of small attack vehicle with small wing-like fins.

"My specialists I stationed aboard the Crusader tell me this war machine, or Scarab, as they call it, is the Covenant's most powerful ground vehicle, and UNSC records indicate it has been deployed to terrifying effect against UNSC infantry and armor in the past." Her grin widened. "They also tell me it is possible to reverse engineer the vehicle for use by the Army. Just imagine the might we could bear on our alien foes!"

Celestia put a hoof to her muzzle. "What about the smaller vehicles? Are they not of value either?" Luna's grin faltered slightly.

"Not truly. UNSC inspectors have already reported to me that our current ground vehicles are more than sufficient to deal with the enemy's. However, this, this would truly be a grand addition to our armies. As for the ship, it is currently in orbit above the moon near the Divinity, we plan to scrap it and use the metal for more Imperial Vessels, oh the Irony Tia!" Luna began giggling like a filly.

Celestia raised an eyebrow at her younger sister. "Well, if that's it Luna, please promise me you will get out of that armor for once and find something nice for the Gala tonight?"

"Oh, that. Yes, yes, as you wish dear sister." Luna replied, seeming to brush the event aside as a minor annoyance. With that said she galloped out of the throne room, obviously still gleeful about the 'spoils of war' on Aurora.

When she was out of earshot and visual range, Celestia sighed and face hoofed. Looking up, she summoned Captain Flash Sentry.

"Captain, I would like you and your men to pay close attention to Luna. Please inform me if you detect any strange behavior or anything I should know about."

Sentry was confused by this. "Your majesty?"

"Fear not, loyal soldier, it's just I'm very worried Luna. Something is going on that she is not telling anypony about. Please, will you?"

The Captain recovered his normal professional expression. With a hoof to his chest he replied. "It shall be done your majesty! We will report anything of suspicious nature to you as soon as possible!"

Celestia smiled at him sadly. "Thank you Captain, that will be all." As Captain Sentry returned to his post, The Empress' thoughts likewise returned to the Gala.

Only a few hours, and still so much to do! Well then, back to work.

Road to Canterlot

9:00 PM

"...Cause I've planned out my insider's tour of Canterlot! I've gotta show Rarity the Crown Jewels, and Applejack the Empress' Golden Apple Tree! And Pinkie, we gotta go to my favorite donut shop!" Spike looked to the carriage behind him.

None of his friends gave any indication they had heard him. "Then let's get a move on!" He exclaimed, sending the reins down on the ponies pulling the carriage, trying to get them to go faster.

"Excuse Me?" One of the stallions growled, stopping and turning around to glare at Spike, who sputtered back, "Umm, I.."

The other stallion cut in. "If you weren't friends with our neighbor Rarity, humph!" At that, the duo began trotting forward again, towing the carriage along. The small dragon wiped his brow with relief.

As they went further down the road, the beautiful capital of the Empire, Canterlot, loomed in the distance. It was even more beautiful than the mountainside waterfalls it was built around.

A trio of important looking UNSC pelicans flew over them towards the city, escorted by twin 'Wyvern' class Imperial Pelican gunships. The travelers however, paid them little notice. Air flight was the norm for long distance travel.

Canterlot's sky was dominated by the bustling of various aircraft that went to and fro their business. In an effort to keep the land's roads quiet and idyllic, the Empress had many years ago, encouraged the Ministry of Technology to focus their transportation development on commercial aircraft, airships, and mag-lev trains rather than derivatives of the Warthog. As a result, Pegasi now shared the skies of Equestria with private VTOL aircraft, freight and mail blimps, and the occasional low-flying star ship or two.

The three Pelicans rushed to the Canterlot Aerodrome. Unbeknownst to Spike and company, they were carrying some of the most important figures in all the UNSC.

Meanwhile...

Canterlot Aerodrome and Spaceport

"UNSC Pelican Charlie-115 to Canterlot Control. Requesting permission to land Pelican Squadron, got a flight of VIP's, over."

"We read you Charlie. You may proceed to land at VTOL Hangar block 9, a pegasi team will be standing by to accommodate you. Welcome to Equestria."

"Solid copy. Prep for landing."

The Wyverns moved to return to base as the three pelicans descended into their three Hangars. The structures opened up to a single platform which, along with many other platforms, connected to a central concourse. The elegant polished marble walkway, which was lined with impressive topiary and fountains, lead straight into Canterlot proper from there. It had obviously been constructed with the aid of unicorn magic, for everything seemed brand new, and not even master human or earth pony engineers alone could have constructed it that quickly.

On the Concourse, Princess Luna herself, alongside Doctor Anders, and General Forge, awaited to receive their incoming guests. Luna had actually listened to her sister and had donned a fine dress, as midnight as her fur. It's trimming was as silver as the moon, and had a dashing cape to boot.

From the first hangar emerged Admirals Stanforth, Parangosky, and Colonel Ackerson. Admiral Hood and Doctor Catherine Halsey walked out of the second. The final hangar entrance opened to admit the Imperials. Admiral Cutter walked alongside Lord General Shining Armor, and Aircommander Spitfire. They cut quite dashing figures in their armor, which was now accented by their own personal modifications, such as Spitfire's Goggles, Cutter's new flowing cape, and Shining Armor's chest piece, which was adorned with an enlarged version of his cutie mark.

Behind the Equestrians were the Empire's only three Spartans, Alice, Jerome, and Douglas. They were now equipped in the prototype FOTUS armor designed by the Ministry of Technology. Alongside themstepped another Spartan Luna did not recognize. He was still equipped with the UNSC standard issue Mark IV Mjolnir armor.

Hood and Halsey were the first to approach the Princess' group, with the others close behind. Luna flashed them the most welcoming smile she could muster. "Princess Luna bids you friendly greeting. Welcome to Equestria, friends. It is mine hope that thou enjoys tonight's festivities, and enjoy the time thou hath spent here."

Lord Hood seemed unaffected by Luna's archaic greeting. He lifted his hat and rubbed his smooth head. "Why thank you, Princess. It's an honor I'm sure. I'm Admiral Sir Terrence of the UNSC Navy."

Taking his hand in her hoof she said. "Sir? Thou hath been knighted? This intrigues us most profoundly. It is a pleasure to make thine's acquaintance." She shook his hand.

Shaking back, he replied. "Likewise." Turning to Halsey, Luna shook with her as well. "Doctor Halsey, an intellectual correct? We have heard much about thine exploits in the fields of technological innovation. Tis a pleasure to know thou as well. Allow me to introduce my fellow Equestrians. This here is General Forge, and this, is Minister of Technology, Dr. Anders."

Halsey folded her arms. "I share the sentiment, Princess. It is great to finally meet a member of your species in person,. I can't lie, your people's culture, even your very anatomy, intrigues me." Catherine glanced over the Alicorn's shoulders. "Ellen! It's been too long."

Doctor Anders frowned. "Hello..Catherine. I see you have aged well."

Halsey chuckled, unimpressed. "I could say the same for you, 'Minister of Technology'." Anders' frown deepened.

Parangosky and Stanforth raised an eyebrow at the brief exchange, while Ackerson turned to himself, snickering devilishly. Seeking to diffuse a potentially volatile situation, Forge put a hand on Anders' shoulder.

"Hey. Let's just go up to the Gala, alright? Maybe they finally got the banquet set up, I'm starving. And maybe Twilight and her friends have arrived." He said softly. Anders said nothing as she stared daggers at Halsey, and merely nodded. The two walked away. Halsey and everyon else returned their attention to the Princess.

After Luna had greeted Parangosky, Stanforth, and Ackerson, she finally greeted her fellow Equestrians. "Greetings to you, Admiral, General, Aircommander. Welcome home." They smiled at her warmly. Turning towards the Spartans, she said, "Hail, Spartans." She approached the fourth one curiously. "Who art thou, soldier?" She raised an eyebrow.

The tall Spartan gave her a crisp salute. "I am Master Chief Petty Officer 117, Princess." Luna gazed at him. Based on his stoic body posture alone, the Princess of the Night decided she liked the Spartan already. "Hmm, what shall we call thou in short, warrior?"

Master Chief hesitated, and shrugged. "Most just call me Chief, for short." He said simply. Luna nodded, satisfied.

"Very well then, Chief. We welcome you to Equestria. It is our hope, that thou enjoys the festivities this night." Chief again stared at her for a moment, his expression unreadable through his orange visor. "I'm not much for parties." He replied.

With a grin, Luna leaned closer to him, holding up her hoof, as if passing along a national secret. "We are one in the same in that regard." Chief merely nodded, still maintaining his stoic demeanor. But inside his helmet, he was smiling a little.

"I take it now we get to meet this Empress of yours?" Ackerson pressed impatiently. Luna nodded. "This way, please. I'm sure Celestia will be delighted to meet you all." Looking over at her comrades, she added, "And to see you all again."

They all made their way into the city, heading straight for the Imperial Palace, the focal point of the Gala.

City Gates, Canterlot Proper

The Mane Six had finally arrived. Outside the city, the fields were full of tourists or guests getting ready to head for the palace.

As the six friends emerged from the carriage, Spike got a good look at their dresses for the Gala. "Whoaa! You all look, amazing!" He exclaimed

Their dresses glinted in the moonlight. Twilight donned a blue and silver dress gilded with gleaming silver stars. The dress ended in a cape and came with silver shoes. Applejack, in addition to a version of her trademark Stetson hat, wore a green, beige and earth colored dress, complete with a red apple tie and matching boots with red trim.

Rarity was garbed in a burgundy dress with yellow and pink trimming. It came with a pink chemise, and the dress curled as elegantly as it's wearer's violet mane. Her shoes were seemingly made of crystal. Rainbow Dash's dress was a rainbow as vibrant as her mane and tail. Her hair was in an elegant braid and she wore a gold garland leaf around her ears. A purple necklace, and a pair of golden shoes completed her ensemble.

Pinkie Pie's outfit matched her perfectly, it was pink all around with embroidery depicting candy at the waist. Trimming was set in a cheerful blue and white, and she wore a cap of the same color with a pink bow. Her shoes were also pink, with blue and white bows. Fluttershy's dress was of nature-inspired design with an all around green skirt. It was trimmed with blue, and her neck tie was accented with a blue butterfly. Another butterfly was around her ear, completing her outfit.

Onlookers would recognize the design instantly as the pinnacle of imperial fashion, as Rarity's designs were of near legendary renown across the Empire.

Seeming to ignore Spike's compliment, the six had their eyes glued on Air force's gates. "I can't believe we're finally here! With all that we've imagined, the reality of this night is sure to make this, The Best Night Ever!" Someone began setting off fireworks in the sky.

They were all so excited, they began singing. Caught by surprise, many Imperial citizens, pony and human alike, broke into song with them, creating a lively scene. The fireworks broke out and painted the sky. At one point the Imperial Wonderbolts even did a flyover with a group of Air force Longswords in tow. With a final flurry of fireworks, the lively singing drew to a close.

At the Gates, the six mares finished their melody. Spike slid in front of them.

"Yeah! This is gonna be the best night ever. You know why? Cause we're all gonna spend time at the Gala to..." They all darted away, too intent to notice the poor dragon. "...gether. Or not." Spike just couldn't catch a break tonight.

Palace Gardens

The Imperial military leaders, along with their distinguished UNSC guests stood around in the garden for a little while chatting. They had already briefly met with Celestia. With an apologetic smile, she told them she would properly meet with them later tonight, as she had to greet each and every one of the Equestrian guests at the front entrance of the Palace.

She left Luna with the responsibilities of entertaining them and showing them around. Naturally Luna was a bit uncomfortable with this, but having her fellow Equestrians nearby, as well as the Chief, was helping her confidence greatly. The Princess was now showing her guests the gardens, sculptures, fountains, and the Labyrinth.

Spitfire was the only Equestrian missing from Luna's entourage, having buggered off to hang out with a fellow Wonderbolt, Soarin.

"Was that, a choir I just heard?" Colonel Ackerson inquired, running his finger through one of his ears and looking around the grounds. Halsey frowned at him in distaste.

Luna nodded. "So it would seem. Some Equestrians are known to spontaneously break into song, even sometimes for rather trivial things. I am not surprised that such an event as the Gala has spawned an instance of it now."

Approaching a statue of a strange-looking serpent like creature, Stanforth took one glance at it and jumped behind Parangosky, shaking. The Admiral rolled her eyes at her colleague's cowardice. "Who or what the hell is that thing!" Stanforth demanded.

The Alicorn, Hood, Cutter, Halsey, and Shining Armor all shared a laugh at Admiral Stanforth's expense.

Finally adopting a serious expression on her face, she answered. "Oh that, Tis just Discord. He's what you would call, a Draconequus, and is the Spirit of Chaos. 1000 years ago, he ruled Equestria, and the Ponies lived in chaos and fear. Me and my sister, the Empress, used our most powerful and ancient artifacts, the Elements of Harmony, to imprison him in the stone upon which you now stare."

"So, you Equestrians managed to turn a powerful supernatural being...into an exquisite lawn ornament?" Halsey asked. Luna nodded once more. "Fascinating."

Lord Hood rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Spirit of Chaos? Do you think maybe you could free him, and we could get him to help us fight the Covenant?"

Luna stared at him blankly, as if he were a garbage can that had suddenly acquired the ability to talk. "With all due respect, doth thou require medical attention, Admiral? Discord is one of the greatest threats to order in all our Empire! And imagine what chaos he could cause with a starship!"

"Oh, well, my apologies Princess." Hood looked down at the floor for a moment, realizing he had inadvertently struck a nerve in Luna. As he looked back up, quickly replacing her outrage, Luna now looked at him thoughtfully.

"Come to think of it, managing to control and unleash Discord on the Covenant would indeed be quite entertaining." The Moon Goddess giggled as she said that.